Monique

Episode Six: Sex And The School (part four)

2010-03-31T03:29:00.000-07:00

23. INT. FLAT LOUNGE DAY

GLEN FURIOUSLY ENTERS HIS FLAT. HE SLAMS THE DOOR SHUT AND OPENS HIS DRINKS CABINET. HE GIVES AN EXCLAMATION OF FRUSTRATION WHEN HE FINDS NO BOTTLES. ADAM WATCHES HIM WITH INTEREST

ADAM
No luck then.

GLEN
Everybody is at it! Amy is at it!
Cosmo is at it! The only person who
isn’t, is me!!

ADAM
I beg to differ my dear boy. I am
not at it either.

GLEN
Oh, no of course not. Sorry.

ADAM
That is quite all right dear chap …
Cosmo you said?

GLEN OPENS AND CLOSES CUPBOARDS IN SEARCH OF ALCOHOL

GLEN
Sophie seduced the little squirt.

ADAM
Sophie Ascot eh?

GLEN
Never seen such embarrassment.

ADAM
Mathematicians need their breaks.
Good to know he’s not stuck behind
a computer all day.

GLEN HAS FINALLY FOUND A FORGOTTEN BOTTLE OF WHISKY IN A CUPBOARD. HE SIGHS WITH DELIGHT, UNSCREWS THE BOTTLE AND TAKES A LONG HARD SWIG

GLEN
If I can’t have the girl, I shall have
my boys back.

ADAM
And what was that about Amy?

GLEN
Her old man is back. The brute that
stopped me entering Silver Birch.

ADAM
Army Captain Short. A nasty piece of
work.

GLEN POURS SOME WHISKY IN A GLASS AND HANDS IT TO ADAM

ADAM
Why didn’t she want you back?

GLEN
The silly girl says that she doesn’t
love me anymore.

ADAM
I see.

ADAM LIGHTS HIS PIPE.

ADAM
Love can tear us apart, what?

GLEN
Nah. Plenty of fish in the sea. I
only hope that they are as good in
bed.

ADAM
I drink to that. Happy angling my dear
boy. I might join you shortly.

THEY CLINK THEIR GLASS AND BOTTLE. GLEN WALKS INTO HIS KITCHEN. ADAM STARES AT HIS GLASS. LUCY’S IMAGE APPEARS IN THE GLASS. SHE WAVES HER INDEX FINGER DISAPPROVINGLY FROM SIDE TO SIDE

ADAM
You are my past. Don’t begrudge me
another chance!

24. INT. SWIMMING POOL DAY

AMY, IN BIKINI, STEPS OUT OF THE POOL AS RICHARD ENTERS. AMY WRAPS A TOWEL AROUND HERSELF. RICHARD APPROACHES SILENTLY. AMY RUBS HERSELF DRY AND RICHARD HUGS HER FROM BEHIND. AMY, STARTLED, TURNS AROUND

RICHARD
You are the most beautiful woman in the
world.

RICHARD KISSES HER SOFTLY ON THE LIPS. HIS HANDS EXPLORE HER BODY AND HE TAKES THE TOWEL AWAY. ALARMED, AMY TENSES

RICHARD
With the body of a young girl.

RICHARD UNDOES AMY’S BIKINI TOP AND KISSES HER ON THE NECK AND BEHIND HER EAR. AMY BREATHES OUT SLOWLY

RICHARD
Forgive me for hurting you. Let me make
it up.

RICHARD KISSES HER SOFTLY ON THE LIPS. RELIEVED AMY KISSES HIM BACK

RICHARD
Let’s make love.

25. INT. RECEPTION DAY

CLARE SORTS THE POST AS MATT, IN HIS BEST SUIT AND CARRYING A BOUQUET, ENTERS. CLARE LOOKS AT HIM IN AMAZEMENT

MATT
I owe you a huge apology.

MATT GIVES CLARE THE BOUQUET.

MATT
I was wrong.

CLARE OPENS HER MOUTH. MATT PUTS UP HIS HAND TO STOP HER SPEAKING

MATT
Totally wrong and I ask your forgiveness
for my clumsiness.

CLARE OPENS HER MOUTH TO SPEAK AND AGAIN MATT PUTS UP HIS HAND

MATT
I will understand if you have doubts
about me and I will have more regard for
your feelings. I promise.

CLARE OPENS HER MOUTH TO SPEAK. MATT PUTS UP HIS HAND

MATT
Before you scold me, I have booked us
a table at a restaurant tonight and I
promise that I will be the perfect
gentleman.

CLARE WAITS FOR HIM TO CONTINUE

MATT
That is all I have to say. I hope that
you will have me back.

CLARE
We need to talk.

26. EXT. PARKING LOT NIGHT

GEORGIA, CARRYING Y FRONTS, WALKS FROM ONE END OF THE PARKING LOT TOWARDS COSMO. COSMO, CARRYING THONGS, WALKS FROM THE OTHER END TOWARDS GEORGIA. THEY MEET IN THE MIDDLE. THEY EXCHANGE GARMENTS, TURN AND WALK BACK. COSMO TURNS

COSMO
You might want to wash them. My friends
tried them on.

27. INT. RESTAURANT NIGHT

MATT, IN HIS BEST SUIT AND CLARE DRESSED IN HER BEST DRESS, HER HAIR STYLED, SIT OPPOSITE AT A SMALL TABLE

MATT
Is this place alright?

CLARE
It is rather good, isn’t it?

MATT
Nothing but the best.

THE WAITER SERVES THEM THEIR FOOD AND THEY BEGIN TO EAT

CLARE
I have to explain things.

MATT
I understand.

CLARE
I don’t think that you do. It is
slightly awkward.

MATT
I have thought about it you know.

CLARE
I am nervous Matt.

MATT
Me too. I have not had a virgin in
years. I have forgotten what it’s
like.

CLARE
Are you making fun of me?

MATT
No! I’m not. I’m just trying to get my
head around it.

THEY EAT IN SILENCE FOR A WHILE

MATT
I do remember my first time though. I
was as edgy as hell.

CLARE
Well then. You should know how I feel.

MATT
I will be patient. I promise.

CLARE
Thank you.

THEY EAT

CLARE
I spoke to Mrs Short about my problem
and she advised me to talk to you.

MATT
I talked to Mr Miller about it and he
advised me to take things slow.

CLARE
Do you want that?

MATT
I want what you want.

CLARE
In that case …

CLARE WAVES THE WAITER OVER

28. INT. COMMON ROOM NIGHT

ADAM AND GLEN MINGLE WITH OTHER TEACHERS TASTING WINE. GLEN SWIGS HIS AS ADAM LETS THE WINE ROLL AROUND HIS MOUTH. GLEN PUTS A BOTTLE OF WINE IN A BOX THAT CONTAINS THREE WINE BOTTLES

ADAM
This is quite good.

GLEN
As long as it is alcohol, I don’t care.

ADAM
You should dear chap. Superior wine,
like a good woman, is difficult to get
these days.

GLEN
Georgia wants me to be her tutor.

ADAM
Be careful Glen. You are on leave.

GLEN
I will see her later.

ADAM
Why does she want you?

GLEN
Christine recommended me.

ROBIN, THE BURSAR, ENTERS AND GLEN QUICKLY HIDES HIS BOX OF WINE

BURSAR
Glen? What the devil are you doing here?

ADAM
Accompanying me Robin. Making sure
that he keeps to the straight and
narrow.

BURSAR
Ah. Good. We want to keep you sober from
now on.

GLEN
Not to worry Robin. Everything in small
measure from now on.

BURSAR
Good, good. Adam can I have a word?

ADAM
Certainly.

BURSAR
Come this way.

ADAM AND THE BURSAR WALK AWAY FROM THE OTHERS. GLEN QUICKLY PICKS UP HIS BOX AND EXITS

ADAM
What can I do for you?

BURSAR
I gave that information to the police.
It made sense to them. They know the
family and their history. They want to
talk to you.

ADAM
I doubt very much that I can add
anything.

BURSAR
Nevertheless I made an appointment for
you. Tomorrow at ten am. Is that okay?

ADAM
I shall be there.

BURSAR
Good.

THE BURSAR TURNS AND WALKS AWAY. HE TURNS BACK

BURSAR
Oh by the way. Just one more thing …

29. INT. CLARE’S BEDROOM NIGHT

CLARE AND MATT ARE IN BED. MAT LIES FRUSTRATED ON HIS BELLY, FACE ON HIS PILLOW, POUNDING THE PILLOW WITH HIS FIST. CLARE SITS UPRIGHT

CLARE
Was that it?

MATT
No … No … No …

CLARE
I haven’t missed much have I!

MATT
Oh flipping heck Clare!

CLARE
I suppose that you want to go home now.

MATT
Oh god, how embarrassing.

CLARE
What a fuss over nothing!

MATT
I haven’t done it for such a long
time! I am so sorry Clare.

CLARE
What for?

MATT
I just lost it!

CLARE
Oh.

MATT KISSES HER SOFTLY

MATT
Let’s try again.

30. INT. FLAT LOUNGE NIGHT

GLEN LETS GEORGIA INTO THE LOUNGE

GLEN
Sit down Georgia. You look different.

GEORGIA
That’s my wig. I can take it off.

GEORGIA SITS DOWN AND TAKES HER WIG OFF

GEORGIA
Shall I tell you where I am?

GLEN
Please do. Wine?

GEORGIA
Yes please.

GLEN POURS WINE INTO TWO WINE GLASSES AND HANDS GEORGIA HERS

GEORGIA
Thank you.

GLEN SITS DOWN OPPOSITE

GLEN
Why a wig? Your hair is gorgeous.

GEORGIA
You think so?

GEORGIA LEANS OVER, TO GET HER BOOK, REVEALING MOST OF HER BREASTS

GLEN
Absolutely gorgeous.

GEORGIA SEES HIS LOOK AND SITS UP, SLOWLY AND CATLIKE SHE LEANS BACK. GLEN IS FASCINATED

GEORGIA
I have got behind since changing school.
I need to catch up with you.

PRETENDING TO READ, SHE OPENS HER LEGS SLOWLY, GIVING GLEN A GOOD VIEW OF HER UNDERWEAR. SHE THEN PRETENDS TO SUDDENLY NOTICE WHAT SHE IS DOING

GEORGIA
Oh, I am so sorry.

GLEN
Not at all … You have wonderful
long legs. May I?

GEORGIA
By all means.

GLEN STROKES GEORGIA’S LEG

GLEN
Smooth.

HIS HAND SLOWLY TRAVELS UP HER LEG. HE LOOKS UP AT GEORGIA, WHO IS WATCHING HIM, WITH THE TIP OF HER TONGUE PROTRUDING FROM HER MOUTH

GLEN
Perfectly formed.

HE TAKES HIS HAND AWAY. GEORGIA GRABS HIS HAND AND PUTS IT BACK ON HER LEG

GEORGIA
Warm and sensual.

GEORGIA MOVES HIS HAND FURTHER UP HER LEG. GLEN LIFTS GEORGIA’S CHIN AND KISSES HER

GLEN
Shall we move the lesson into the
bedroom?

31. INT. SHED NIGHT

CHARLOTTE LEADS COSMO INTO THE SHED TOWARDS THE MATTRESS

CHARLOTTE
I know more than she does. Come on.

COSMO
I hope so. She was clumsy and bit me.

CHARLOTTE
We have to be quick. It’s nearly nine.

COSMO
I can be quick.

CHARLOTTE
Not too quick. Lay down.

COSMO AND CHARLOTTE LIE DOWN AND COSMO KISSES HER ON THE CHEEK

CHARLOTTE
That’s not a proper kiss. This is!

CHARLOTTE KISSES HIM FIRMLY ON HIS LIPS, EXCITING COSMO

32. INT. FLAT SPARE ROOM NIGHT

ADAM WALKS INTO THE SPARE ROOM AND RUMMAGES THROUGH HIS DRAWERS. HE SLAMS THEM SHUT

33. INT. FLAT BEDROOM NIGHT

IN TE DOUBLE BED, GLEN, LYING ON TOP OF GEORGIA, GENTLY HOLDS HIS HAND OVER HER MOUTH

GLEN
Shhhh.

34. INT. FLAT SPARE ROOM NIGHT

ADAM OPENS AND RUMMAGES THROUGH HIS BRIEFCASE. HE EMPTIES THE BRIEFCASE AND FINALLY FINDS A PHOTOGRAPH. PUZZLED HE HOLDS IT UP

35. INT. FLAT BEDROOM NIGHT

GLEN AND GEORGIA, SIDE BY SIDE IN THE DOUBLE BED, LISTEN

GEORGIA
Who is it?

GLEN
Adam. Mr Parson. What on earth is he
doing?

THEY HEAR A LOUD CRY OF ANGUISH AND FLABBERGASTED LOOK AT EACH OTHER

36. INT. FLAT SPARE ROOM NIGHT

ADAM LOOKS INTO THE MIRROR WHERE LUCY’S IMAGE APPEARS, HOLDING UP THE PHOTOGRAPH. HE HOLDS IT UP IN A WAY THAT HE CANNOT SEE THE BACK OF THE PHOTOGRAPH

ADAM
Is this yours!

LUCY NODS

ADAM
Why the devil didn’t you tell me!!

LUCY SMILES

ADAM
What other secrets do you have!

LUCY SMILES

ADAM
Leave me alone!

LUCY SHAKES HER HEAD

ADAM
What do you want from me!

ADAM LOOKS AT THE PHOTOGRAPH

37. INT. FLAT BEDROOM NIGHT

GEORGIA IS GETTING DRESSED. GLEN PULLS HER BACK ONTO THE BED

GLEN
I will get rid of him. Promise.

GEORGIA
I have to go. It’s nearly ten.

GLEN
Do you know where the shed is?

GEORGIA NODS

GLEN
Meet me there tomorrow at break.

GEORGIA
Why there?

GLEN
Another tutorial. You need to know your
Lawrence from your Austen. Come here.

HE TAKES GEORGIA IN HIS ARMS AND SLOWLY STARTS TO UNDRESS HER AGAIN. GEORGIA PULLS AWAY

GEORGIA
Tomorrow I shall teach you something.

GLEN
Can’t wait.

THEY HEAR A WAIL FROM THE SPARE ROOM

GEORGIA
Get me out of here. The man’s mad.

GLEN
Ask Christine about that window.

GEORGIA
She already has told me.

GLEN IS SLIGHTLY ALARMED

GLEN
Did she?

GEORGIA
She used to see someone.

GLEN
Who?

GEORGIA
Why the interest?

GLEN
I like to know what my students are up
to.

GEORGIA
She didn’t say.

RELIEVED, GLEN KISSES HER. HE GETS UP, WRAPS THE DUVET AROUND HIMSELF AND LEADS GEORGIA TO THE DOOR

GLEN
Don’t tell her about us. Don’t tell
anyone … Come on. Quietly.

GLEN OPENS THE DOOR, LOOKS TO SEE IF IT’S SAFE AND GIVES HER A LINGERING KISS. IT TURNS THEM ON AND THEY MAKE THEIR WAY BACK TO THE BED

38. INT. CLARE’S BEDROOM NIGHT

MATT LIES ON HIS SIDE ASLEEP. CLARE LIES ON HER BACK, WITH A SATISFIED LOOK. SHE TURNS TO MATT AND EMBRACES HIM FROM BEHIND

CLARE
Matt, Matt wake up.

MATT GRUMBLES IN HIS SLEEP. CLARE SHAKES HIM.

CLARE
Matt. One more time. Wake up.

CLARE PUTS HER HAND UNDER THE DUVET. MATT STIRS. CLARE KISSES HIM ON HIS NECK. MATT TURNS WITH A SIGH OF PLEASURE AND THEY EMBRACE.]

39. INT. FLAT SPARE ROOM NIGHT

ADAM STANDS OUTRAGED BEFORE THE MIRROR WITH THE PHOTOGRAPH. HE SHOWS THE PHOTOGRAPH TO LUCY'S IMAGE IN THE MIRROR IN SUCH A WAY THAT HE CANNOT SEE THE BACK OF THE PHOTOGRAPH. LUCY SMILES AND NODS

ADAM
Is that what you want!

LUCY HAPPILY NODS. ADAM CRIES OUT IN AGONY

ADAM
I cannot do that!

LUCY FROWNS AT HIM

ADAM
You cannot be serious!

LUCY NODS

ADAM
If I do this, will you leave me alone?

LUCY NODS

ADAM
Promise me.

LUCY STROKES HER THROAT AND HOLDS UP TWO FINGERS, IN A GESTURE OF TRUST. ADAM LOOKS AT THE PHOTOGRAPH AND THEN LOOKS AT LUCY’S IMAGE IN THE MIRROR

ADAM
Deal.

FREEZE FRAME

END OF EPISODE SIX

Episode Six: Sex And The School (part three)

2010-01-09T02:10:00.000-08:00

16. EXT. OUTSIDE THE SHED DAY

GLEN WALKS PAST THE SHED AND HEARS A GIGGLE. HE STOPS, LISTENS AND HEARS IT AGAIN. HE ENTERS THE SHED.

17. INT. SHED DAY

ALEXANDRA AND CHARLOTTE ARE CRANING THEIR NECKS TO WATCH SOPHIE AND COSMO. GLEN WATCHES THEM IN
AMAZEMENT.

GLEN
Well, well.

CHARLOTTE AND ALEXANDRA JUMP WITH THE SHOCK.

ALEXANDRA
Mr Miller!!

AT THE BACK OF THE SHED, ON THE MATTRESS, COSMO AND SOPHIE, WITH COSMO’S EARLOBE IN HER MOUTH, LAY
STOCK-STILL.

GLEN
What are you doing?

COSMO GIVES A MUFFLED CRY OF PAIN. STARTLED, CHARLOTTE GIVES A QUICK GLANCE AT THE BACK OF THE SHED.

GLEN
What was that? Charlotte? What are you looking at?

THE GIRLS ARE STUMPED FOR WORDS.

GLEN
What’s this?

GLEN PUSHES THE GIRLS TOWARDS THE BACK OF THE SHED WHERE COSMO AND SOPHIE ARE LYING. SOPHIE AND COSMO
SCRAMBLE UP. GLEN IS AMUSED BY WHAT HE SEES.

GLEN
Ah Cosmo! Practicing your English assignment again!
I think we’ve seen enough of you today!

HE TURNS TO ALEXANDRA AND CHARLOTTE.

GLEN
And you were watching them?
I can’t think what you hoped to learn from those two?
No, you should return to reading about the matter.

SOPHIE TURNS FURIOUS TO THE OTHER TWO GIRLS.

SOPHIE
You were watching!

ALEXANDRA
Well you should have kept your mouth shut.

CHARLOTTE
Telling everyone that you were going to
have sex with him.

COSMO
What!!

GLEN
Go back to your house. I shall have a
word with Mrs Short about this. Cosmo,
stay here.

SOPHIE, ALEXANDRA AND CHARLOTTE WALK AWAY.

SOPHIE
How could you do that!!

CHARLOTTE
It was fun.

ALEXANDRA
Pity you couldn’t go all the way.

SOPHIE
You try!

GLEN
Go on girls. Get back!

THE GIRLS MEEKLY WALK OUT OF THE SHED. GLEN LOOKS AT COSMO. COSMO IS MIGHTY EMBARRASSED.

GLEN
Now … Have you read Lawrence’s essays on
the matter?

18. INT. HOUSE KITCHEN DAY

MAGGIE AND ROSIE DISCUSS THE Y FRONTS FOUND IN GEORGIA’S ROOM.

ROSIE
Maybe she likes wearing them.

MAGGIE
Instead of thongs?

ROSIE
I do.

MAGGIE
Wear thongs?

ROSIE
No, Bobbie’s underwear.

MAGGIE
You wear men’s pants?

ROSIE
I wore them all the time when I was
pregnant. They were just right and
roomy. Ever since, I wear them.

MAGGIE
Are you wearing them now?

ROSIE
Of course. You can’t get decent
underwear these days. They are all
designed for young women.

MAGGIE
Tell me about it. I hate thongs.
Shopping for proper knickers is a
nightmare.

ROSIE
You should try it.

MAGGIE
What does your Bobbie think?

ROSIE
It turns him on.

MAGGIE LOOKS SURPRISED AT ROSIE.

MAGGIE
You mean …

ROSIE NODS.

ROSIE
Easy access.

MAGGIE
You know, ever since I changed my HRT, I
feel much sexier.

ROSIE
Well there you are.

MAGGIE
I think that he gets a bit fed up with
me because I want it nearly every night.

ROSIE
Try the underpants.

MAGGIE
Well, maybe you’re right. She likes
wearing men’s underwear. A young girl
should have sexy underwear though.

ROSIE
We could ask.

MAGGIE
That might embarrass her.

THE DOORBELL RINGS.

MAGGIE
I’ll get it.

19. INT. HOUSE CHRISTINE’S ROOM DAY

GEORGIA AND CHRISTINE ARE SITTING, HEADS TOUCHING, ON THE SINGLE BED LOOKING THROUGH A MAGAZINE.

CHRISTINE
Wow, he’s sexy.

GEORGIA
Clooney? He’s way past it.

CHRISTINE
You think so? Look at those smouldering eyes.

GEORGIA
You like the older men then?

CHRISTINE
They have the experience.

GEORGIA
What about the boys here?

CHRISTINE
There are some hot ones.

GEORGIA
I’m so pleased to be at a mixed
school. Mind you there were some
good looking young teachers in my
old school in Switzerland.

CHRISTINE
Have you met Mr Miller yet?

GEORGIA
What’s he like?

THERE IS A KNOCK AT THE DOOR.

CHRISTINE
Come in!

GLEN ENTERS AND LOOKS AT GEORGIA.

GLEN
You must be Georgia.

GEORGIA IS PLEASANTLY SURPRISED BY GLEN’S GOOD LOOKS.

GLEN
Mr Miller, your English teacher.

GEORGIA
I see!

GEORGIA EYES HIM UP AND DOWN.

GEORGIA
I am looking forward to working with you.

GLEN GIVES HER HIS MOST CHARMING SMILE AND TURNS TO CHRISTINE.

GLEN
May I speak to you in private?

GEORGIA RISES TO LEAVE THE ROOM. CHRISTINE PULLS HER BACK DOWN.

CHRISTINE
Whatever it is that you have to say can
be said in front of Georgia. And anyway,
I am not allowed a man in my room.

GLEN
I am your teacher and it is
confidential. Georgia? Do you mind?

CHRISTINE
Yes she does.

GLEN
Come on Chrissie, don’t be a dickhead.
You know it’s perfectly safe to have me
here. Georgia?

GEORGIA HESITATES, LOOKING FOR HELP AT CHRISTINE. CHRISTINE RELENTS AND NODS.

GEORGIA
See you later then.

EXIT GEORGIA.

CHRISTINE
What do you want?

GLEN
I want you.

CHRISTINE
I thought I had made it quite clear.
I don’t want to see you.

GLEN
Please Christine, give me another
chance. I am a reformed man. I promise.

CHRISTINE
Yeah right!

GLEN
I have stopped drinking.

CHRISTINE
Forget it Glen.

GLEN LIFTS HER CHIN AND GENTLY KISSES HER.

GLEN
How can I forget?

GLEN SOFTLY KISSES HER NECK. CHRISTINE WEAKENS.

GLEN
And how can you? Don’t you remember what
we used to do to each other?

CHRISTINE
Leave it Glen.

GLEN’S NIBBLES HER EAR AND STROKES HER HAIR. CHRISTINE ABRUPTLY STEPS BACK.

CHRISTINE
I can do that with anyone.

GLEN STEPS BACK.

GLEN
What a hurtful thing to say.

CHRISTINE
It’s only sex.

GLEN
That is not true. I love you.

CHRISTINE
And I don’t love you. Not anymore.

GLEN IS ASTONISHED.

GLEN
You don’t mean that. What we had, have,
is something special. Come on Christine.
Love cannot disappear just like that!

CHRISTINE
You call what we had love? A quick romp
in the sack? Sneaking around? Hiding? No
that was sex, not love.

GLEN LOOKS AT CHRISTINE IN AMAZEMENT.

CHRISTINE
That love has long gone. I realised
that during the Winter ball. It’s over.
Go home and find someone else.

GLEN
I gave up drink for you!

CHRISTINE
I really don’t care what you gave up.
Please let me be.

CHRISTINE OPENS THE DOOR AND A DISILLUSIONED GLEN LEAVES.

20. INT. HOUSE MAIN AREA DAY

AMY ENTERS AS GLEN LEAVES. PUZZLED, AMY WATCHES HIM LEAVE. RICHARD WALKS OUT OF HIS OFFICE.

AMY
What was he doing here?

RICHARD
To see Christine.

AMY
Christine! What about?

RICHARD
Her work. Why?

AMY
He is on leave to sober up! Why on earth
did he want to see Christine?

RICHARD
I need to have a word with you.

AMY
I had better see Christine. There is
something fishy going on.

AMY WALKS AWAY. RICHARD PULLS HER BACK.

RICHARD
I said I needed to have a word!

AMY
You’re hurting me!

RICHARD
That’s because you’re not listening.

AMY
Ok, ok Richard. What is it?

RICHARD
Pay attention will you? Open your ears
when I speak to you!

AMY
Of course, I am sorry.

RICHARD’S FINGER GOES OVER A PLINTH AND WITHDRAWS WITH DUST ON HIS FINGER.

RICHARD
What is the meaning of this?

AMY
A bit of dust!

RICHARD
It is just not good enough.

RICHARD TAKES AMY’S CHEEK BETWEEN HIS FINGERS.

RICHARD
You are keeping a sloppy house. Get the
cleaners here. I’ll show them how to do
a proper job!

AMY
Aw, Richard! They are doing a good job!

RICHARD LETS HER GO. AMY RUBS HER CHEEK.

RICHARD
You call this a good job?

RICHARD PUSHES AMY’S FACE DOWN TO A DIRTY CORNER.

RICHARD
Shall I make you lick it?

AMY
Richard! Please!

RICHARD LETS HER GO.

RICHARD
I can see that I have a lot of work
here. It is high time that a man took
over from you!

AMY
You cannot do that!

RICHARD
And how are you going to stop me?

AMY
Technically I am your boss!

RICHARD
You are my wife! Not a good one, but
nevertheless my wife. Get the
cleaners!!

AMY
But Richard! I have nothing to do with
them! They are your concern! Anyway
they would have left by now!

RICHARD LIFTS HER FACE BY SOFTLY PULLING HER HAIR.

RICHARD
Are you disobeying me?

21. INT. RECEPTION DAY

CLARE SORTS THE POST AS AMY ENTERS.

AMY
May I have the swimming pool key please Clare?

CLARE
Of course.

CLARE GETS THE KEY. SHE GIVES IT TO AMY.

AMY
Thank you.

AMY TURNS TO WALK OUT.

CLARE
Mrs Short?

AMY TURNS.

CLARE
Could I have a private word with you?

22. INT. COMMON ROOM DAY

AMY AND CLARE SIT OPPOSITE EACH OTHER DRINKING TEA AND EATING BISCUITS. OTHER TEACHERS ARE SITTING AT SEVERAL TABLES.

CLARE
I thought that he was going to propose!

CLARE LOOKS AROUND TO SEE IF ANYONE CAN OVERHEAR AND LEANS OVER THE TABLE TOWARDS AMY.

CLARE
But he was only after sex!

SHE SITS BACK AND SHAKES HER HEAD.

CLARE
Anyway, we patched up our differences
during the holidays and I thought that
would be the end of it.

CLARE SIGHS DEEPLY.

AMY
But?

CLARE
He brought it all up again.

AMY
And?

CLARE
It was awful. We had such an argument.

AMY
I see.

CLARE
We had never even kissed you see.

AMY
He never kissed you?

CLARE
We had our first kiss this morning.
Then I told him that I am still a
virgin. He stepped back, muttered an
excuse and walked out. I am afraid that
I have lost him.

AMY
Surely not. He was probably confused.

AMY SIPS TEA, HESITATES AND THEN LEANS FORWARDS.

AMY
Tell me Clare, if you don’t mind me
asking. How come you are still a virgin?

CLARE SIGHS.

CLARE
It is extremely embarrassing.

AMY
Absolutely not! I find it most endearing.

CLARE
I had such a strict upbringing. A kiss
was a sinful thing and sex was never
mentioned. I had a few boyfriends of
course but nothing came of them. I
realise now that I must have been
such a prude. Then my mother fell ill. I
worked during the day and cared for her
in the evening.

AMY
Oh dear.

CLARE
Yes. The last ten years of her life I
was her full time carer. After she died
I took a short holiday and then started
here.

AMY
By then life had past you by.

CLARE
Yes. Then I met Matt. He became a
good friend.

AMY
More than a friend, surely.

CLARE
I had hoped so.

AMY
Tell me, when he kissed you, did you
feel a glowing sensation in your belly?

CLARE
Oh I did, right down below. That kiss
was lovely.

AMY
The kiss and that glowing sensation is all part of making
love … Sex. You are such a lucky woman!

CLARE
I am?

AMY
You are. You have built up a strong
friendship with Matt. This is now
developing into a deeper relationship.
Matt is a good man Clare. He wants more
now and you should too.

CLARE
I do! I really do! … But I am scared Mrs
Short. I have no experience. I will be
clumsy and awkward and that might put
him off.

AMY
I doubt that very much. I think that he
loves you very much indeed but doesn’t
know how to approach you.

CLARE
I am afraid that he will never approach
me again.

AMY
You have to be honest with him. You have
to confide in him that you are nervous
about having sex.

CLARE
Do you really think so? Won’t that put
him off?

AMY
No. He will love you more. You know, he
loved his late wife very much and was
most protective of her. For you both to
have a second chance is such a beautiful
thing. Never mind that you are nervous
and he is confused. Talk to him and it
will work out. I promise you.

CLARE
I will need to pluck up courage first.

THEY RISE AND AMY HUGS CLARE.

AMY
You know, I almost envy you.

Episode Six: Sex And The School (part two)

2009-08-06T02:18:00.000-07:00

10. INT. COMMON ROOM DAY

ADAM LISTLESSLY STIRS HIS COFFEE. AMY WATCHES HIM, RISES AND JOINS HIM.

AMY
What are you doing here Adam? Are you not on compassionate leave?

ADAM
I couldn’t stand being at home.

AMY
Quite.

ADAM
I see her everywhere Amy.

AMY
I understand.

ADAM
No you don’t! Nobody understands!

AMY
It is all right Adam.

ADAM
It is as if she has a message for me.

AMY
What sort of a message?

ADAM
I wish I knew. I really wish I knew.

AMY RISES AND LOOKS AT HER WATCH.

AMY
Go home Adam.

AMY LOOKS PITIFULLY AT HIM.

ADAM
Don’t do that!! I hate pity!!

AMY WALKS AWAY. THE BURSAR ENTERS, SEES ADAM AND WALKS TOWARDS HIM.

BURSAR
Aren’t you supposed to be on leave?

ADAM
Ah, Robin, you know how it is.

THE BURSAR SITS DOWN.

BURSAR
Can’t rest?

ADAM SHRUGS HIS SHOULDERS.

BURSAR
You should get away.

ADAM
Give me a description of the murderer.

BURSAR
That’s all out of my hands.

ADAM
I need to do something Robin.

BURSAR
The police have all the information about the murderer and I’m sure are doing all they can. The killer will be brought to justice.

ADAM
All I need is a name.

BURSAR
The police are having some problems with Lucy’s background.

ADAM LIGHTS HIS PIPE.

ADAM
Oh?

BURSAR
Yes, they are short of information. They are trying to piece together her past.

ADAM REACHES INTO HIS JACKET POCKET.

ADAM
This might help.

ADAM GIVES HIM A PIECE OF PAPER.

BURSAR
What is this?

ADAM
Read it.

THE BURSAR READS

BURSAR
Who is Bella?

ADAM
Lucy.

BURSAR
Excuse me?

ADAM
She took on a different identity to escape her family. Read on. It’s all there.

THE BURSAR GROWS MORE CONCERNED WITH EACH LINE.

BURSAR
I don’t understand. Are you saying that this person here, Bella, is the same as Lucy?

ADAM
That is correct.

BURSAR
Good God man! You knew about this?

ADAM
The school seems to be quite careless when it comes to new recruits.

BURSAR
Where did you get this information?

ADAM
The Internet.

THE BURSAR RAISES AN EYEBROW.

ADAM
I know. I know. A friend got the information for me.

BURSAR
Someone else here knows about this?

ADAM
No. No one else does.

BURSAR
Are you sure?

ADAM
Trust me.

THE BURSAR SCANS THE PIECE OF PAPER AGAIN.

BURSAR
Good God. I will ask my secretary to investigate everyone again.

ROBIN RISES.

BURSAR
This information may be vital. I will telephone the police immediately. They might want to speak to you.

THE BURSAR STRIDES AWAY. ENTER AN IRATE GLEN. HE SITS DOWN OPPOSITE ADAM.

GLEN
Get me a drink!! This place employs some nasty people!

11. INT. HOUSE GEORGIA’S ROOM DAY

MAGGIE ENTERS WITH THE VACUUM CLEANER. SHE TIDIES THE ROOM AND FINDS Y FRONT UNDERPANTS. AGHAST SHE HOLDS THEM UP.

MAGGIE
Good Lord alive!!

ROSIE ENTERS.

ROSIE
What? What’s the matter?

MAGGIE HOLDS UP THE Y FRONT.

MAGGIE
Her first day here and already she’s had a boy in her room!!

ROSIE
Not another troublemaker!

MAGGIE
What is wrong with this room?

MAGGIE OPENS A DRAWER TO HIDE THE UNDERPANTS AND SEES A DOZEN MORE. FLABBERGASTED THEY LOOK AT EACH OTHER.

12. EXT. FLAT DAY

MATT LOOKS INTO THE WINDOWS OF GLEN’S FLAT. HE KNOCKS ON THE DOOR AS ADAM AND GLEN APPROACH.

MATT
There you are Mr Miller. Mr Parson.

GLEN
What is it Matt?

MATT
I need to speak to you Mr Miller. In private.

ADAM
What is bothering you dear boy?

MATT
It is a personal matter Mr Miller.

ADAM
Ah. Got you.

GLEN
You’d better come in then.

THEY ENTER GLEN’S FLAT.

13. INT. FLAT LOUNGE DAY

ADAM, GLEN AND MATT ENTER.

GLEN
Sit down Matt.

MATT SITS DOWN ON A CHAIR. ADAM AND GLEN ON THE SOFA.

GLEN
How can I help you?

MATT
It’s a delicate matter and I’m not sure that I want Mr Parson to hear it.

ADAM
Trust me dear boy. Secrets and delicate matters are always safe with me.

GLEN
I can vouch for that.

MATT HESITATES.

MATT
If I see one smirk I’m off.

GLEN AN ADAM HOLDS THEIR HANDS UP IN DEFENCE.

MATT
It’s Clare.

14. INT. HOUSE MAIN AREA DAY

CHRISTINE REMOVES A RESTRAINT FROM A WINDOW. GEORGIA WATCHES.

CHRISTINE
You climb out, put the restraint back on and close the window. You do the same
when you come back and Bob’s your uncle.

GEORGIA
Who else knows about this?

CHRISTINE
Sophie and Charlotte. They claim that they saw the axe man in the Old House one night. The door was locked, the buzzer alarm on and I had to let them in through this window.

GEORGIA
Cool.

15. INT. FLAT LOUNGE DAY

ADAM AND GLEN, SITTING ON THE SOFA LISTEN TO MATT, SITTING ON A CHAIR.

MATT
Listen.

MATT LEANS FORWARDS IN HIS CHAIR

MATT
We have known each other for over a year and we have just kissed.

ADAM AND GLEN GIVE EACH OTHER A LOOK.

GLEN
Good!

MATT
And I want more now if you understand what I mean?

ADAM
Understood.

MATT
The trouble is that she is a virgin.

GLEN
My.

ADAM
Ah!

ADAM AND GLEN GIVE EACH OTHER ANOTHER LOOK.

MATT
I don’t know how to deal with it!

ADAM AND GLEN COUGH KNOWINGLY.

ADAM
I can see the problem.

GLEN
Absolutely.

ADAM
Delicate indeed.

MATT
Can you help me?

GLEN AND ADAM LOOK AT EACH OTHER.

ADAM GLEN
Certainly! Absolutely!

MORE DELICATE COUGHING FROM GLEN AND ADAM.

GLEN
You have opened with a kiss. Good.

ADAM
Most impressive.

MATT
Well, not exactly.

ADAM
Oh?

MATT
I have been fondling her breasts for months.

ADAM AND GLEN LOOK AT MATT IN AMAZEMENT.

GLEN
Before the kiss?

ADAM
Good God man! How did you do that?

MATT
It started as a joke really. She seemed to like it and she’s let me ever since.

ADAM AND GLEN GIVE EACH OTHER ANOTHER LOOK.

ADAM
And now you are ready to explore a bit further, what?

MATT
Yes! My late wife was good in bed. Never a problem. For Clare it seems to be a huge issue. When I touch those warm voluptuous …

LOUD COUGHING FROM ADAM AND GLEN.

MATT
Sorry. Well you know what they’re like.

ADAM
I recall.

GLEN
If only I could have mine back.

MATT AND ADAM GIVE EACH OTHER A LOOK.

GLEN
But that’s my problem … Well now, you must woo her. It is as simple as that.

MATT
Woo her?

ADAM
You will have to buy her plenty of flowers.

GLEN
Kiss her tenderly …

ADAM
On the cheeks, her mouth, her neck, the back of her ears …

GLEN
Especially the neck. Always greatly appreciated.

ADAM
Indeed. You should spoil her with elaborate meals.

GLEN
At the most expensive restaurants you can afford.

ADAM
Slowly you will win her over. Set the pace. Do not touch her breasts. That will infuriate her.

GLEN
Pardon?

ADAM
In her case!!

GLEN
Aaah. Right.

ADAM
Woo her and woo her again. And after one such a meal take her to your place.
She will not suspect a thing as you have been a gentleman throughout.

GLEN
Place her on the sofa. Play soft music and serve some Chardonnay. Kiss her with
passion, yet gently.

ADAM LOOKS AGHAST AT GLEN

ADAM
Chardonnay? Good god man, she surely deserves some quality. A good Burgundy perhaps … Or even better Savenniéres 2001.

GLEN
Never heard of it.

ADAM
Trust me. A fine vintage.

GLEN
In that case, give her Savenniéres 2001.

ADAM LIGHTS HIS PIPE.

ADAM
Now is the time to take the initiative.

GLEN
Carefully lower her dress strap.

ADAM
Kiss her shoulder. Lick it softly. Linger there for a while. Test the waters.

GLEN
Ooh, those lovely soft shoulders.

ADAM
Slowly descend towards her breast. Mind you, she might object. In that case, stay with the shoulders a little longer.

MATT LISTENS WITH GROWING UNEASE AS GLEN AND ADAM GET CARRIED AWAY.

GLEN
Roll your tongue around her nipple.

ADAM
Aah, to feel the nipple swell in your mouth.

GLEN
By now she will quiver in your arms.

ADAM
Your hand slowly moves towards her belly. If she objects again you should go immediately back to her breast.

GLEN
If she is fine you kiss her navel softly.

MATT
Navel?

ADAM
Belly button.

MATT
Oh.

GLEN
Keep kissing the navel, whilst your fingers teases her pubic hair.

ADAM
Then you kiss her on her mouth and let your hand linger.

GLEN
Then touch her. Enough to give her a taste of what is to come. And move your hand back to her breast.

ADAM
She will now be like putty in your hands.

GLEN
Carry her to your bed.

ADAM
And make love to her the entire night.

GLEN
It is that simple.

GLEN AND ADAM SIT BACK WITH A DEEP SIGH OF PLEASURE. MATT SWALLOWS HARD.

MATT
Flipping heck! You call that simple?

GLEN GETS UP.

GLEN
It is. Come along, you have a lot of work to do.

MATT GETS UP AND HE AND GLEN WALK AWAY.

GLEN
One more thing. Never hurry her. Let it happen naturally. Take your time.

MATT
Yes Mr Miller.

GLEN OPENS THE DOOR AND STEPS OUT WITH MATT. ADAM GETS UP AND STANDS IN FRONT OF THE MIRROR.]

ADAM
If only I could have done this with you.

LUCY’S IMAGE APPEARS INTO THE MIRROR.

ADAM
It would have been perfect.

LUCY SMILES AT HIM AND GESTURES HIM TOWARDS HER. HER IMAGE SLOWLY DISAPPEARS. ADAM SIGHS DEEPLY. GLEN RETURNS. ADAM LIGHTS HIS PIPE.

GLEN
You can use the spare room. If you hear erotic noises tonight, ignore them.

ADAM
You are convinced that you can win Christine back?

GLEN
I am certain.

GLEN GRABS HIS DRIVING LICENSE AND WALKS OUT OF HIS FLAT.

Episode Six: Sex And The School (part one)

2009-04-19T05:54:00.000-07:00

1. EXT. RIVERBANK DAY

ADAM STANDS, FORLORN, STARING AT THE RIVER. PIPE, UNLIT, IN HIS HAND.

2. INT. CLARE’S CAR DAY

CLARE, DRIVING AND MATT SEE ADAM AS THEY PASS.

CLARE
To find true love and lose it, in a matter of hours. Terrible.

MATT
The poor sod didn’t even get any sex.

CLARE IS ABOUT TO REBUKE HIM, CHANGES HER MIND, AND GIVES HIM A GLARE.

3. EXT. RIVERBANK DAY

ADAM WATCHES THE IMAGE OF LUCY APPEAR IN THE RIVER. SHE REACHES OUT FOR HIM. THE IMAGE SLOWLY DISAPPEARS. ADAM SIGHS DEEPLY, LIGHTS HIS PIPE AND WALKS AWAY.

4. INT. HOUSE KITCHEN DAY

MAGGIE AND ROSIE WASH AND DRY THE DISHES.

ROSIE
What did she see in him?

MAGGIE
Love can be a mystery.

ROSIE
He is so old!

MAGGIE
What are you saying? Love becomes an alien concept when you reach fifty?

ROSIE
No-o. She was young and pretty. You’d think she could have found a younger man.

AMY AND RICHARD ENTER.

AMY
Maggie, Rosie, I would like to introduce you to my husband Richard.

MAGGIE AND ROSIE SHAKE HANDS WITH RICHARD.

RICHARD
I am pleased to meet you.

AMY
As Mo is on leave, and we have not yet found a replacement, Richard will fill her role.

MAGGIE
Oh.

AMY
I have told him what is expected.

ROSIE
Welcome on board Richard.

AMY LOOKS AT HER WATCH.

AMY
I have to go. I shall show you your office Richard.

EXIT AMY AND RICHARED.

ROSIE
A man as a matron, eh? This is going to be easy.

5. INT. FLAT LOUNGE DAY

GLEN STANDS IN FRONT OF A MIRROR CHECKING HIS NEAT SUIT. HE BRUSHES HIS HAIR AND SMOOTHES HIS FACE.

HE OPENS HIS DRINKS CABINET, WHICH IS FILLED WITH BOTTLES OF ALCOHOL.

GLEN
Sorry my boys. Down the drain you go. I want my girl back.

6. INT. HOUSE GEORGIA’S ROOM DAY

GEORGIA IS HANGING POSTERS ON THE WALL WHEN THERE IS A KNOCK AT THE DOOR.

GEORGIA
Come in!

CHRISTINE ENTERS.

CHRISTINE
Hi. It’s Georgia is it? I’m Christine.

GEORGIA
Hi. I saw you earlier.

CHRISTINE
I’m the house Head Girl. If you have any problem you can come to me.

GEORGIA
Thanks. I’m fine at the mo. What happened to the girl who used to be here? I was suddenly given her place.

CHRISTINE
Oh Antoinette. Expelled.

GEORGIA
What did she do?

CHRISTINE
She was a fool. What is this?

CHRISTINE PICKS UP A WIG. UNDER THE WIG IS ANOTHER ONE.

CHRISTINE
Another one! Are you from a theatrical family or something?

GEORGIA
No, no no. I like wearing them.

CHRISTINE
Why?

GEORGIA
A different hairstyle and colour every day.

CHRISTINE
You could just dye it.

GEORGIA
I prefer wigs. It doesn’t damage your hair.

CHRISTINE PUTS ON A WIG THE WRONG WAY AROUND. BOTH GIRLS BURST OUT LAUGHING.

7. INT. SHED DAY

SOPHIE AND COSMO SIT IN GLEN’S OLD DEN.

COSMO
I could rig up something here. Interesting.

SOPHIE
A bed would be nice.

SOPHIE LOOKS AT THE REMNANTS OF GLEN’S BED.

SOPHIE
You could make us a love nest.

COSMO
There is space for a computer here.

SOPHIE
Don’t talk computers now.

COSMO
I love computers.

SOPHIE
I’ll give you something that you will love more.

HIDDEN, ALEXANDRA AND CHARLOTTE WATCH AND TRY TO LISTEN IN.

ALEXANDRA
What are they doing?

CHARLOTTE
He is such a nerd!

ALEXANDRA
Come on! Kiss him!

CHARLOTTE
Shhh.

SOPHIE HOLDS UP A BLANKET.

SOPHIE
We could use this. It’s perfect.

COSMO WALKS TOWARDS THE OLD WARDROBE.

COSMO
What’s this then?

SOPHIE FOLLOWS HIM.

SOPHIE
What are you doing?

COSMO OPENS THE WARDROBE DOOR, REVEALING GLEN’S STACK OF FOOD.

COSMO
Excellent!

SOPHIE
Cool!

ALEXANDRA AND CHARLOTTE CRANE THEIR HEADS TO SEE THEM.

CHARLOTTE
Now grab him and kiss him!

ALEXANDRA GIGGLES.

SOPHIE
Kiss me.

COSMO
Kiss you?

SOPHIE
Like this.

SOPHIE PUTS A SMACKER ON HIS MOUTH. ALEXANDRA AND SOPHIE SIGH. COSMO IS TOTALLY TAKEN ABACK BY SOPHIE’S ACTION.

8. INT. RECEPTION DAY

MATT AND CLARE ENTER. CLARE SWITCHES THE LIGHT ON. WITH A SPLAT THE BULB DIES. WITH A HUM ALL THE OTHER ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT STOPS.

CLARE
Oh no!

MATT
That’s the trip switch!

CLARE
Do something!

MATT
Actually …

CLARE
What?

MATT
I say its perfect timing …

CLARE LOOKS AT HIM IN PUZZLEMENT. MATT TAKES A DEEP BREATH.

MATT
… For a bit of rumpy-pumpy.

CLARE
Excuse me?

MATT
Well, look at it like this …

CLARE
I am not looking at it at all!!

MATT
Why not?

MATT STEPS FORWARD AND HUGS HER.

MATT
I would love to investigate more.

CLARE ANGRILY STEPS BACK.

CLARE
Have you gone insane!

MATT
What is the matter with you!

CLARE
There is nothing the matter with me! It’s you!!

MATT
There is nothing wrong with me! Why are you so hell bent against us!

CLARE IS AGHAST.

MATT
We have known each other long enough. How long are you going to keep me waiting!

CLARE
Get out!

MATT
No! I need to know why you don’t want me!

CLARE
I said, get out!!

MATT
No Clare. What happened to Mr Parson could happen to us. Think about it!

CLARE
Don’t be so stupid. I’m not going to drop dead!

MATT
You can never be sure and anyway, what we have is special!

CLARE
Well …

MATT
Don’t you think we make a good couple?

CLARE
Well, yes, I suppose so.

MATT
What’s the big issue here then!!

CLARE SIGHS DEEPLY.

CLARE
The problem? All right then!

CLARE GLARES AT MATT. MATT WAITS WITH ABATED BREATH.

CLARE
You have never even kissed me.

MATT SIGHS WITH RELIEF.

MATT
We can solve that right now. Come here.

MATT TAKES CLARE IN HIS ARMS AND KISSES HER SOFTLY.

MATT
That was lovely.

CLARE
Yes, it was.

MATT
Well? What about the next step?

CLARE
There is something else that you need to know.

9. INT. HOUSE MAIN AREA DAY

THE DOORBELL RINGS. RICHARD EXITS HIS OFFICE AND OPENS THE DOOR.

GLEN
Thank you.

RICHARD STOPS GLEN FROM ENTERING.

RICHARD
And you are?

GLEN
Oh, I am sorry. Miller. Glen Miller.

RICHARD
Identification?

GLEN
I beg your pardon?

RICHARD
Please, identify yourself. For all I know you could be an intruder.

GLEN
For goodness sake man! I am an English teacher! I need to see Christine Moore about her work!

RICHARD
If you can show me some proof.

GLEN
What proof!

RICHARD
Identification!

GLEN
I haven’t got any! You have to take my word for it!

RICHARD
No identification, no entrance.

GLEN SEES THAT RICHARD MEANS IT AND HE FURIOUSLY TURNS AND WALKS AWAY.

GRINDHIRST SCHOOL, THE WINTER TERM SYNOPSIS

2009-03-25T01:55:00.000-07:00

The Winter Term has six episodes which I will post again in five or six segments per episode at the time. The following is the synopsis as what roughly will happen during the term.

During the winter term, Adam sees Lucy's image everywhere. Feeling lonely at his home, he moves in with Glen. Finding a photograph, he discovers what Lucy demands from him. He succeeds in withstanding Georgia's charms, suspects that Richard is a wife beater and with Cosmo plants listening devices in Amy's apartment. He gets involved with Glen's arrest and in setting up photographer Tom Smith.

Glen, unsuccessful in getting Christine back, enters an affair with Georgia. Christine, having unsatisfactory relations with boys her age, wins him back. Glen gets involved in a bedroom farce with Georgia, Christine, Matt and Adam. He gets arrested for drink driving and punching a PC.

Christine and Georgia become best friend unbeknown to each other that they both have an affair with Glen. They get involved with Glen's arrest. Georgia, never having been withstood by a man, remains fixated on Adam, putting him in tricky situations.

During a blizzard, Amy provokes Glen into admitting his affair with Christine and is overheard by several students. Amy loses Alexandra during a cross country race, gets blamed for head lice and gets pregnant but loses the baby when Richard beats her up severely.

Richard discovers the listening devices planted by Cosmo, foiling Adam's plan. Maggie and Rosie resolve Richard's laundry troubles and Alexandra's Valentines cards problem. They also get involved with Cosmo's tarantula and help Glen and Adam to set up Tom Smith. Rosie gets a false pregnancy alarm and discovers hard-core pornographic pictures in Richard's office leading to his arrest.

Matt, discovering that Clare is a virgin, seeks Glen and Adam's advice. The problem is resolved. Tom Smith's arrival during the cross-country rocks the boat and their relationship is broken off. Clare's perceived pregnancy brings them back together. However, Clare has entered the menopause.

Cosmo helps Adam remove a pornographic computer file that Adam accidentally entered when searching for Lucy's true identity. Cosmo plays the Ouija game with Sophie, Alexandra and Charlotte, where they see Lucy's image in a mirror and he find hard-core porn on Richard's laptop.

Charlotte thinks that she is pregnant by Cosmo as he is cheating on her with Alexandra. Her false pregnancy is a hormonal problem. When Charlotte finds out about Cosmo's cheating, she tries to commit suicide. As Silver Birch girls party, Mo returns from leave.

So, a lot is happening in this term and I hope that you enjoy reading the script.

Episode Five: The Winter Ball (part five)

2009-02-18T04:33:00.000-08:00

34. INT. UNDER THE DOME NIGHT

MATT, BEHIND THE BAR, GIVES INSTRUCTIONS TO MAGGIE AND ROSIE, WHO ARE WAITRESSING.

MATT
Always say please and thank you. Never leave a glass empty. Keep your eyes peeled for guests arriving and welcome them in. You’ve got that?

MAGGIE AND ROSIE NOD.

MATT
Good. Now go to your positions.

MAGGIE AND ROSIE WALK AWAY.

MATT
And serve the youngsters lemonade. We don’t want any trouble.

CLARE ENTERS DRESSED IN HER BEST OUTFIT. SHE SURVEYS THE ARIA AND LOOKS IN AMAZEMENT AT HER FLOWER ARRANGEMENTS. THEY HAVE GOLD AND SILVER DECORATIONS ON THEM AND THEY LOOK FABULOUS. PUZZLED SHE WALKS TO THE BAR AND TAKES HER PLACE BY THE FOOD COUNTER.

MATT
Well?

CLARE
Well what?

MATT
Your flower arrangements!

CLARE
You did this?

MATT
Someone hung peanuts in their shells out for the birds. As if they would know what that’s for … Anyway, I put my thinking cap on. What do you think?

CLARE
I don’t know what to say! They are looking absolutely great!

CUT TO MAGGIE AND ROSIE. ROSIE POINTS AT THE GOLD AND SILVER DECORATIONS ON THE FLOWER ARRANGEMENTS.

ROSIE
Those are your peanuts!

MAGGIE
Don’t be daft. They can’t be!

GUESTS BEGIN TO ARRIVE AND MAGGIE AND ROSIE HURRY TOWARDS THEM AND WELCOME THEM IN. THE SCHOOL BAND BEGINS TO PLAY.

CUT TO MATT AND CLARE.

MATT
I took the peanuts out, painted the shells silver, the nuts gold and arranged the nuts and shells with the flowers.

CLARE
Goodness! You did a grand job!

MATT
Am I forgiven?

CHARLOTTE, SOPHIE AND ALEXANDRA, DRESSED IN THEIR MOST REVEALING DRESSES, ENTER.

ALEXANDRA
I don’t know what happened to the laptop. Maybe this time it was really stolen.

THE OTHER BOYS AND GIRLS BOARDING AT THE SCHOOL ENTER. CHRISTINE IS THE LAST TO ENTER. ROBIN, THE BURSAR, FOLLOWS HER IN AND MAKES HIS WAY TO THE BAR.

BURSAR
Is everything alright Matt?

MATT
It’s all in hand Mr Bragg.

BURSAR
Good, good. Wait for the sign.

PARENTS AND TEACHERS ARRIVE. MAGGIE WELCOMES THEM IN AND TAKES THEIR COATS. ROSIE GOES ROUND WITH GLASSES OF DRINKS ON A TRAY. GUESTS MINGLE.

35. EXT. OLD HOUSE NIGHT

ADAM AND LUCY, ENTWINED, MAKE THEIR WAY SLOWLY TOWARDS THE OLD HOUSE. IT BEGINS TO SNOW.

ADAM
Damn stuff!

LUCY
Don’t.

ADAM
I wont. Nothing can spoil my happiness.

LUCY
Are you ready to face them?

ADAM
Ready to face the devil if need be.

THEY STOP AND KISS TENDERLY.

36. INT. HOUSE MAIN AREA NIGHT

JOSEPHINE AND BEATRICE SIT ON THE SOFA. AMY SWITCHES THE TV ON.

AMY
Now listen. Not a peep out of you two. I will be in my apartment if you need me.

JOSEPHINE
Yes Mrs Short.

AMY WALKS TOWARDS HER APARTMENT AND ENTERS.

37. INT. HOUSE APARTMENT LOUNGE NIGHT

AMY ENTERS AND UNCORKS A BOTTLE OF WINE. SHE SITS DOWN, POURS SOME WINE IN A GLASS AND, WITH A DEEP SIGH, RELAXES.

38. INT. FLAT LOUNGE NIGHT

GLEN DRESSES FOR THE BALL. AN EMPTY BOTTLE OF BRANDY STANDS BESIDE A HALF FULL ONE. HE IS HAVING TROUBLE WITH HIS TIE AND IMPATIENTLY HE SWIGS FROM THE BOTTLE.

39. INT. UNDER THE DOME NIGHT

MATT WALKS TOWARDS THE PODIUM. HE TAPS THE MICROPHONE. THE GUESTS STOP WHAT THEY ARE DOING AND LOOK AT THE PODIUM. THE BURSAR STEPS FORWARD AND TAKES HIS PLACE BY THE MICROPHONE. MATT STEPS BACK.

BURSAR
Ladies and Gentlemen! In the Headmaster’s absence I wish to welcome you to the Winter Ball.

THE GUESTS APPLAUD.

BURSAR
Thank you. Thank you. It is a pleasure to see you all in such good form. Now, I should apologies for all the recent upsets. This was, of course, never my intention. An over zealous clerk misread my instructions and sent out the wrong information. There will be no increase to the school fees. I have sacked the person responsible for creating such trouble.

APPLAUSE AND CHEERS. LUCY AND ADAM GIVE EACH OTHER A LOOK.

ADAM
An over zealous clerk? My foot!

LUCY
Shhhh.

BURSAR
It is with great pleasure that I can declare this term to have been one of the best. There were no unforeseen problems, no upheavals and no unnecessary redundancies.

APPLAUSE.

SOPHIE
He seems to have forgotten about the fire drill.

CHARLOTTE
And the collapsed ceiling in our dorm.

ALEXANDRA
And that disastrous school trip on the moors.

BURSAR
… And I would like to thank Mr Baker for all his hard work in keeping the school upright …

LAUGHTER. MATT TAKES A BOW.

BURSAR
… Miss Frump for looking after reception …

CLARE BLUSHES TO APPLAUSE AND LOOKS SHYLY AWAY.

BURSAR
… And thank you students for your exemplary behaviour!

APPLAUSE. THE STUDENTS TAKE A BOW.

BURSAR
Ladies and Gentlemen, boys and girls, eat and drink and be merry. Thank you!

CHEERS AND APPLAUSE. THE BAND BEGINS TO PLAY. GUESTS EAT, DRINK AND DANCE. MATT IS BUSY BEHIND THE BAR. CLARE HELPS GUESTS SELECT FOOD. MAGGIE AND ROSIE KEEP GLASSES FILLED.

LUCY
Such a wonderful do.

ADAM
It wouldn’t be the same without you. You know that don’t you?

LUCY
Mr Parson … I love you.

ADAM
And you, Miss Brown, have made me the happiest man on earth.

ENTER GLEN, DRUNK AND IN DISARRAY.

40. INT. HOUSE APARTMENT LOUNGE NIGHT.

AMY HAS FALLEN ASLEEP. THERE IS A KNOCK AT THE DOOR THAT WAKES AMY. SHE LOOKS AT HER WATCH, AS THERE IS ANOTHER KNOCK.

AMY
I’m coming!

SHE RISES FROM THE SOFA AND QUICKLY CHECKS HER APPEARANCE IN THE MIRROR. THERE IS ANOTHER, IMPATIENT, KNOCK.

AMY
Hold on!

AMY WALKS TO THE DOOR AND OPENS IT.

AMY
Will you two ever …

AMY OPENS HER EYES WIDE IN SHOCK.

RICHARD
Surprise!

AMY
Richard!!

41. INT. UNDER THE DOME NIGHT

GLEN IS CREATING HAVOC. HE SEES FLEAS EVERYWHERE. HE DESPERATELY TRIES TO FREE GUESTS OF THEIR FLEAS. HE PULLS THEM FROM PEOPLE’S HEADS, DRESSES AND SUITS. THE GUESTS ARE HORRIFIED BY HIS BEHAVIOUR. GLEN’S BEHAVIOUR APPALLS CHRISTINE.

BURSAR
Matt! Remove him!

MATT WALKS TOWARDS GLEN WHO IS MOVING TOWARDS CHRISTINE.

GLEN
What’s the matter with those people? Can’t they see that it is an infestation?

CHRISTINE
Stop making a fool of yourself!

GLEN
Fool? Me? They are the fools!

MATT
Come with me Mr Miller.

GLEN TURNS AND SCREAMS.

GLEN
You are full of the sodden things!!

CHRISTINE
Come on Glen … Back to your flat.

GLEN
Are you coming with me?

CHRISTINE
Of course I am. Come on.

MATT
Come with me Mr Miller. Slowly goes.

MATT AND CHRISTINE TAKE GLEN AWAY. ADAM LIGHTS HIS PIPE.

ADAM
This had to happen. Damn fool spoils everything. Let’s retire to my place.

LUCY
I quickly need to use the loo first.

ADAM
I shall get our coats. We can leave at the back, what?

LUCY
Meet you there.

42. EXT THE OLD HOUSE NIGHT

MATT AND CHRISTINE ESCORT GLEN OUTSIDE.

CHRISTINE
I can handle it from here Mr Baker.

MATT
I’m sure that you can.

CHRISTINE WAITS FOR MATT TO RETURN INSIDE.

GLEN
Come with me my darling. I’ve had enough.

CHRISTINE TURNS FURIOUS TO HIM.

CHRISTINE
You’ve had enough!! You blithering idiot! Do you think for one moment that I care!! The way you humiliated me in public!! I never want to see you again!! You hear!! Never!!

GLEN
But darling!

CHRISTINE
No buts Glen!! You are a drunk and you stink! You can go to hell!!

CHRISTINE ANGRLILY STOMPS AWAY, LEAVING GLEN DUMBFOUNDED. HE DRUNKENLY STAGGERS AFTER HER.

GLEN
Chrissie! Eh Chrissie!!!

HE SLIPS ON THE SNOW AND COLLAPSES IN A HEAP.

43. INT. UNDER THE DOME NIGHT

MATT RETURNS BEHIND THE BAR.

CLARE
He made a total fool of himself. He should be sacked immediately.

MATT
Yes. Yes. Clare?

CLARE
Yes?

MATT PUTS ONE KNEE ON THE FLOOR.

MATT
Will you marry me?

CLARE IS ASTONISHED. SHE LOOKS AROUND TO SEE IF PEOPLE ARE WATCHING.

CLARE
Get up silly. This is not getting you back in my good books either.

MATT
But …

CLARE
For now, the answer is no. Besides I have plans for the holiday and marriage is not one of them.

MATT
But Clare, please!

CLARE
You may try again next year.

ADAM MAKES HIS WAY TO THE TOILET AREA WITH TWO COATS HANGING OVER HIS ARMS WHEN THE BURSAR STOPS HIM.

BURSAR
Ah, Adam. A word.

44. INT. LADIES TOILETS NIGHT

LUCY IS REPAIRING HER MAKE-UP IN FRONT OF A MIRROR WHEN SHE HEARS THE DOOR OPEN.

LUCY
Don’t be so impatient. A woman needs time to prepare herself for her man.

WITH A SMILE, LUCY TURNS AROUND.

45. INT. UNDER THE DOME NIGHT

THE BAND PLAYS. GUESTS EAT, DRINK AND ARE MERRY. MATT, HUMBLED BY REJECTION, SERVES DRINKS BEHIND THE BAR. CLARE HELPS GUESTS WITH THEIR CHOICES FOR FOOD. MAGGIE AND ROSIE KEEP GLASSES FILLED. THE STUDENTS ARE HAVING FUN. SOPHIE IS DANCING WITH COSMO.

ALEXANDRA
Her bum does look big in that dress.

CHARLOTTE
She stuffed her knickers with tissue.

ADAM TAKES HIS LEAVE FROM THE BURSAR.

ADAM
I’m glad this is sorted Robin.

BURSAR
All the best Adam. Have a great holiday.

ADAM
It’s never too late to find true love, what?

BURSAR
I expect an invitation to the wedding soon.

ADAM SMILES AND GIVES THE BURSAR A WAVE WHILST MAKING HIS WAY TO THE LADIES TOILETS.

46. INT. CORRIDOR NIGHT

ADAM WALKS WITH A BIG SMILE TOWARDS THE LADIES TOILETS. A SECURITY GUARD MAKES HIS WAY TOWARDS HIM.

ADAM
A good show, what?

THE SECURITY GUARD SMILES AT ADAM AND PASSES. ADAM REACHES THE LADIES TOILET AND KNOCKS AT THE DOOR. HE WAITS AND KNOCKS AGAIN.

ADAM
Lucy? … Lucy, are you decent? … May I come in?

ADAM LISTENS AND HESITANTLY OPENS THE DOOR.

47. INT. LADIES TOILET NIGHT

ADAM HESITANTLY ENTERS. LUCY LIES ON THE FLOOR. SHE HAS BEEN SHOT. ADAM KNEELS IN SHOCK BESIDE HER AND LIFTS HER IN A SITTING POSITION. LUCY’S EYES OPEN AND SHE REACHES OUT FOR HIM.

ADAM
Somebody!!! Call an ambulance!!!!!

WITH A DEEP SIGH, LUCY DIES AND A PHOTOGRAPH SLIPS FROM HER HAND.

WITH A LOW, ANIMAL LIKE MOAN, ADAM CRADLES LUCY IN HIS ARMS.

END OF EPISODE FIVE

END OF THE AUTUMN TERM

THE SCHOOL IS NOW CLOSED FOR THE CHRISTMAS HOLIDAYS AND EPISODE SIX IS THE OPENING EPISODE OF ‘THE WINTER TERM’.

WE WILL MEET GEORGIA, WHO REPLACES ANTOINETTE AND WE WILL LEARN MORE ABOUT RICHARD, AMY’S HUSBAND, AND COSMO, GEORGIA’S BROTHER.

Episode Five: The Winter Ball (part four)

2008-12-31T07:03:00.000-08:00

28. INT. BURSARY DAY

ROBIN, THE BURSAR, SITS BEHIND HIS DESK. ROSIE AND MAGGIE SIT IN A CHAIR EACH OPPOSITE.

BURSAR
This is a serious breach of confidentiality.

MAGGIE
It shouldn’t happen Mr Bragg.

BURSAR
Indeed not.

ROSIE
The girls are horrible to us.

BURSAR
Right. Leave this with me.

ROBIN RISES AND SHOWS THEM TO THE DOOR. ROSIE AND MAGGIE WALK TO THE DOOR. ROSIE SUDDENLY STOPS.

ROSIE
One more thing, Mr Bragg.

BURSAR
And that is?

ROSIE
She was the one who blabbed about the extra ten thousand pounds!

BURSAR
What are you saying?

MAGGIE
Mrs Pitt spread the rumour.

BURSAR
Are you absolutely sure?

MAGGIE AND ROSIE LOOK AT EACH OTHER AND THEN NOD.

BURSAR
Have you any proof?

ROSIE
We heard her on the telephone.

BURSAR
Hearsay is not enough. You must provide me with solid proof or my hands are tied.

ANTOINETTE BURSTS INTO THE ROOM.

ANTOINETTE
I am their proof!

MAGGIE AND ROSIE ARE STARTLED BY ANTOINETTE’S SUDDEN APPEARANCE.

BURSAR
Miss Vanderbeek!!

ANTOINETTE
I heard Mrs Pitt and I heard Maggie and Rosie discussing the problem!

BURSAR
It is still hearsay! Where is the proof!!

ANTOINETTE
Why should I lie!

BURSAR
In that case, why didn’t you do anything about it!

MO BURSTS INTO THE ROOM.

MO
She did something alright! She tried to blackmail me!! Have her expelled!

ANTOINETTE
You cow!

MO
Try to get out of that one!

BURSAR
Ladies!!

MO
She cot scared and blamed Matt!!

ANTOINETTE
I so did not!

ANTOINETTE TURNS TO THE BURSAR.

ANTOINETTE
She blamed Mr Baker! Rotten cow!!

MO
Bitch!

MO ATTACKS ANTOINETTE AND THEY BEGIN TO FIGHT.

BURSAR
Ladies! Ladies!

MAGGIE
Mo!!

MAGGIE AND ROSIE INTERVENE WITH THE FIGHTING AND GET INVOLVED. ENTER AMY.

AMY
What is going on!!

MO PULLS ANTOINETTE’S HAIR … MAGGIE TACKLES MO … MO GRABS ROSIE … ROSIE KICKS ANTOINETTE … ANTOINETTE HOLDS MO IN A STRANGLE HOLD … THE WOMEN ARE ROLLING AROUND … ANTOINETTE SCREAMS AS MO BITES HER.

THE BURSAR TURNS TO A FLABBERGASTED AMY.

BURSAR
Is this the way you run your house!!

29. INT. UNDER THE DOME DUSK

CLARE STRUGGLES TO ENTER THROUGH THE DOOR WITH HER FLOWER ARRANGEMENTS. ADAM IS SAMPLING THE WINE COLLECTION. HE PICKS UP HIS PIPE AND LIGHTS IT.

ADAM
Ah, Frump!

CLARE GIVES HIM A DIRTY LOOK.

CLARE
Don’t just stand there! Give me a hand!

ADAM TAKES SOME TRAYS AND PUTS THEM ON A TABLE. HE LOOKS IN DISMAY AT THE ARRANGEMENTS.

ADAM
Have you robbed a graveyard of its flowers?

CLARE
Don’t you start! I have had enough trouble as it is!

ADAM LOOKS AROUND THE AREA. HE WAVES HIS PIPE AROUND.

ADAM
Good show, what?

CLARE
It’s an embarrassment!

ADAM
What is my dear?

CLARE
This is!

GLEN ENTERS AND LOOKS IN AMAZEMENT AT THE FLOWER ARRANGEMENTS.

GLEN
Who died!

CLARE
Right!! That’s it!!

CLARE STORMS OFF.

CLARE
I shall leave the two of you with that problem!!

EXIT CLARE.

ADAM
What’s got into Frump?

GLEN SEES FLEAS.

GLEN
Oh no! Not here too!!

ADAM
What is the matter dear boy?

LUCY ENTERS.

LUCY
Adam!

ADAM TURNS.

ADAM
Oh, it’s you,

LUCY
Don’t be like that. I need to speak to you.

ADAM
We have said all that is necessary. Thank you!

ADAM TURNS HIS BACK TO HER AND PUFFS DISDAINFULLY ON HIS PIPE.

LUCY
I really, really need to speak to you.

ADAM IS DISTRACTED BY GLEN’S PECULIAR BEHAVIOUR. LUCY TAKES HIM BY THE ARM AND STEERS HIM TOWARDS THE HALIFAX ROOM. ADAM POINTS HIS PIPE AT GLEN.

ADAM
That man is seriously disturbed.

30. INT. HOUSE ANTOINETTE’S ROOM DUSK

ANTOINETTE IS PACKING HER BELONGINS INTO A TRUNK. THERE IS A KNOCK AT THE DOOR.

ANTOINETTE
Go away Mrs Pitt cow!!

CHRISTINE, DRESSED FOR THE WINTER BALL, ENTERS.

CHRISTINE
What are you doing!

ANTOINETTE
Expelled.

CHRISTINE
Expelled! Why!

ANTOINETTE
I write on your wall on facebook why.

CHRISTINE
Tell me now.

ANTOINETTE
I have to go. My taxi is waiting.

CHRISTINE
What about the Ball!

ANTOINETTE
Stuff the Ball. I’m going home and will never return to this hellhole.

31. INT. HOUSE OFFICE DUSK

MO IS PACKING HER BELONGINGS IN A BLACK BINLINER. THERE IS A KNOCK AT THE DOOR.

MO
Go away, whoever you are!!

ENTER AMY.

AMY
I am so sorry Mo.

MO
No you’re not!

AMY
I never meant to …

MO
Yes you did!!

AMY
You are, of course, always welcome to see the girls.

MO
I’m only on leave. I will be back soon.

AMY
Quite.

MO
Well I think that’s it.

MO LOOKS AROUND.

MO
And I wont be babysitting for you.

AMY
Pardon?

MO
Beatrice and Josephine. Remember?

EXIT MO, LEAVING AMY SHAKING HER HEAD IN DISDAIN.

32. INT. HOUSE MAIN AREA DUSK

MO WALKS OUT OF HER OFFICE CARRYING A BINLINER AS ANTOINETTE COMES DOWN THE STAIRS FOLLOWED BY THE TAXI DRIVER AND CHRISTINE CARRYING HER TRUNK. THE TWO WOMEN LOOK AT EACH OTHER SPITEFULLY.

ANTOINETTE
Make way please for my trunk.

MO
Get out of my way you spoiled brat.

MO STEPS FORWARD AS AT THE SAME TIME ANTOINETTE STEPS FORWARD. THEY ARE IN EACH OTHER’S WAY AND THERE IS A STRUGGLE FOR SPACE. FOLLOWING SOME ABRUPT MOVEMENTS ANTOINETTE TRIUMPHS. SHE EXITS, LEAVING A SEETHING MO IN HER WAKE.

33. INT. HALIFAX ROOM DUSK

ADAM, PIPE IN HAND, STROLLS AROUND THE ROOM. LUCY SITS ON A CHAIR.

ADAM
You know, I have always wondered why this house is under-used. Its possibilities are endless.

LUCY
You have to stop avoiding me.

ADAM
There are so many rooms.

LUCY
Adam, sit down.

ADAM
This room would make a perfect dining room.

LUCY
It used to be one.

ADAM
Really?

LUCY
I studied the house, as you well know.

ADAM
So you did.

LUCY RISES FROM HER CHAIR, WALKS TOWARDS ADAM, TAKES HIS ARM AND LEADS HIM TO A CHAIR.

LUCY
Sit down. We need to talk.

ADAM
I have nothing more to say.

LUCY
I do. Sit down.

RELUCTANTLY ADAM SITS DOWN.

LUCY
I’m sorry. I did not know that you had such feelings for me. If I had known I would never have behaved as I did.

ADAM
Good! That’s taken care of.

ADAM RISES FROM HIS CHAIR. LUCY PULLS HIM BACK DOWN.

LUCY
Why didn’t you tell me?

ADAM
A gentleman does not talk about such things.

LUCY
What nonsense!

ADAM
My dear girl. If I had been born around the same time as you, things would have been entirely different. I am a fifty-year-old man. What could you possibly see in me?

LUCY
I see a good friend.

ADAM RISES AND PACES THE ROOM, WAVING HIS PIPE AROUND.

ADAM
That’s exactly it. A good friend. No more. I shall tell you something Miss Brown. Over the years I have desired many women. Many. However, when I met you, somehow things were different. Feelings developed.

ADAM LOOKS ACCUSINGLY AT LUCY.

ADAM
I fought them … I fought them hard … I have never thought highly of the female species. I thought they were for sex only.

INDIGNANT LUCY RISES.

ADAM
Sit! And listen!

ADAM TAKES A LONG PULL ON HIS PIPE.

ADAM
When I asked you to marry me, I surprised myself.

LUCY
I don’t know what to say. I thought that your feelings were of a fatherly nature.

ADAM
Fatherly. Fatherly, indeed.

LUCY RISES.

LUCY
Please Adam …

ADAM
I have said enough.

ADAM TAKES LUCY IN HIS ARMS, KISSES HER PASSIONATELY AND PUSHES HER AWAY.

ADAM
Goodbye my dear.

ADAM MARCHES AWAY.

LUCY
Not so fast Mister!

LUCY PULLS HIM BACK, LOOKS DEEPLY INTO HIS EYES AND KISSES HIM. SHE STEPS AWAY. ADAM LOOKS INTO HER EYES AND SIGHS DEEPLY.

ADAM
My New Years wish seems to have come through.

LUCY
I didn’t have one …

THEY SMILE AT EACH OTHER.

Episode Five: The Winter Ball (part three)

2008-11-23T07:45:00.000-08:00

19. INT. HOUSE 6TH FORM CORRIDOR DAY

MO TURNS THE CORNER INTO THE CORRIDOR AND SEES A PILE OF CLOTHING LYING IN A HEAP IN FRONT OF ANTOINETTE’S ROOM. SEETHING SHE STOPS BY THE PILE.

MO
Antoinette!!!

ANTOINETTE EXITS HER ROOM. MO POINTS AT THE PILE OF CLOTHING.

MO
What is the meaning of this!

ANTOINETTE
I’m tidying!

MO
Put it back into your room immediately!

ANTOINETTE
No!!

MO
I beg your pardon!!

ANTOINETTE
Why should I listen to you, you stupid cow!

MO GRABS ANTOINETTE BY THE COLLAR OF HER BLOUSE.

MO
Now you listen to me, you nasty piece of work …

ANTOINETTE
Will you let me go!!!

MO SHAKES ANTOINETTE.

MO
Letting me believe that Matt was the blackmailer! It was you all along, you … You …

ANTOINETTE WORKS HERSELF FREE.

ANTOINETTE
So?

MO
How could you! The poor man is still shaken by the accusations!

ANTOINETTE
You accused him? Good god, how gullible can you get?

MO
I shall have to report you!

ANTOINETTE
Oh yeah?

MO
I shall inform the Head right now!

ANTOINETTE
You go right ahead! I shall follow and inform him about you!

MO
As if he will believe a minor! Ha!

ANTOINETTE
Oh, he will! Believe you me!!

MO
You are a liar, a troublemaker and a drug abuser! I shall make sure that you get expelled! You … You … Good for nothing!

MO TURNS AROUND AND WALKS OFF IN A HUFF.

ANTOINETTE
And I shall make sure that you get the sack!! I have witnesses!!

20. INT. HOUSE MAIN AREA DAY

MO STORMS DOWN THE STAIRS. MAGGIE AND ROSIE ARE STILL STANDING THERE.

MO
Why are you still standing there!!

ROSIE
I …

MO
Get back to your work immediately! It’s not a holyday camp here!

MAGGIE AND ROSIE GIVE EACH OTHER A LOOK.

MO
The dorms are a tip! Get them clean!! Now!!

SLOWLY MAGGIE AND ROSIE WALK AWAY.

MO
Chop chop please!!

MO STORMS INTO HER OFFICE AND SLAMS THE DOOR SHUT.

MAGGIE
Come on. Let’s clean up those messy dorms.

ROSIE
The rotten cow is exaggerating as per usual! You just wait and see!

21. INT. RECEPTION DAY

CLARE LOOKS DISAPPOINTED AT THE FLOWER ARRANGEMENTS.

CLARE
The glitter has not improved the matter.

MATT
My angel worries too much.

CLARE
It needs more festive decorations.

MATT
What I can do for my honeysuckle?

CLARE
Something shiny. Or silvery.

MATT
The sunshine of my life wants perfection.

CLARE
Will you stop that!

MATT
My little pussycat sometimes shows her claws.

CLARE
Have you gone insane?

MATT
No-o?

CLARE
Why do you give me those ridiculous names then?

MATT
They’re not ridiculous!

CLARE
Just stop that nonsense.

MATT
But …

CLARE
No buts!

MATT
It’s a special day!

CLARE
Is it?

MATT
It’s exactly a year ago today that we first met!

CLARE
Oh, so it is!

MATT
And I thought that we should celebrate.

CLARE
We should.

MATT
Tonight should be the night.

CLARE
I agree.

MATT
We could do it at your place.

CLARE
At my place? It should be done during the winter ball!

MATT
The ball?

CLARE
Of course! It should be a special time and place.

MATT
Blimey.

CLARE
What do you mean?

MATT
Shouldn’t it be more private?

CLARE
Don’t be silly. The winter ball is perfect.

MATT
You are surprising me.

CLARE
Oh?

MATT
I never thought that you would want it done in public!

CLARE
Of course I do.

MATT
With strangers looking on?

CLARE
Well, yes!

MATT
I have never done that in public.

CLARE
Not even with your wife?

MATT
No, bless her poor deceased soul, she was much too shy for that.

CLARE
You are such an unromantic person.

MATT
Well, if you’re up for it, so am I.

CLARE
Good!

MATT
I’m beginning to warm to the idea. You are quite something you know?

CLARE
I can see it now …

MATT
Hopefully it’s legal.

CLARE
… Seeing you kneel before me …

MATT
Kneel?

CLARE
… Presenting a golden ring with a diamond …

MATT
Eh?

CLARE
… Of course I will let you wait for my answer. Let the suspense grow …

MATT
You mean …

CLARE
… And everyone will applaud when the answer is yes.
Perfect.

MATT
I don’t know what to say!

CLARE
Of course you do, you silly man.

MATT
You’re not talking about, hum, about having sex?

CLARE
Sex?

MATT
To celebrate? Tonight?

CLARE
Sex? No … No … I thought you meant … You … You dirty old man!!

CLARE SLAPS HIM IN THE FACE.

CLARE
Get out!!!

22. INT. HOUSE DORMITORY DAY

ROSIE AND MAGGIE ENTER A VERY MESSY DORM.

MAGGIE
Mo’s right!

ROSIE
It is a tip!

ALEXANDRA
I will clean it.

ROSIE AND MAGGIE JUMP. THEY TURN AND SEE ALEXANDRA SITTING MISERABLY ON HER BED IN A NIGHT GOWN.

MAGGIE
Alex! What’s the matter!

ALEXANDRA
I hate those two!

ROSIE
Why? What have they done this time?

ALEXANDRA
They’ve got me involved with their scam!

ROSIE AND MAGGIE GIVE EACH OTHER A PUZZLED LOOK.

ALEXANDRA
I’ll show you.

ALEXANDRA WALKS TOWARDS CHARLOTTE’S BED AND OPENS THE LARGE SLIDING DOOR UNDER THE BED. SHE TAKES OUT A LAPTOP.

MAGGIE
I see!

ROSIE
Is it the stolen one?

ALEXANDRA
She gave it to Charlie. Charlie’s going to sell it and they will collect the insurance money. They have promised me a share if I keep quiet. I hate them!

ALEXANDRA BEGINS TO SOB.

ROSIE
What some little toerags!

MAGGIE
Dry your tears babe. There is always a solution.

ALEXANDRA
Not for this. They will know I dobbed them in.

MAGGIE PICKS UP THE LAPTOP.

MAGGIE
Oh, look Rosie, I found Sophie’s laptop when we stuffed Charlottes clothes back under her bed!

ROSIE
Well, I’ll be damned. Charlie must have borrowed it without Sophie’s knowledge.

MAGGIE
What shall we do with it?

ROSIE
We better take it to lost property. Let them sort it.

MAGGIE
That is what we shall do then.

ALEXANDRA
Oh, you two are genius! Thank you!

ROSIE
No, thank you for talking to us.

ALEXANDRA
Oh that! I don’t believe for one moment that you grassed on Beatrice and Josephine. You are always covering for us.

ROSIE
It was Mrs Pitt.

ALEXANDRA
I knew it was her! Blaming you two! You really should do something!

ALEXANDRA HUGS THE CLEANERS.

ALEXANDRA
I’m going to tell everyone it wasn’t you.

MAGGIE
Thank you.

ALEXANDRA
I know how hard they can make things for you. In my old school they gave Mrs Holden a nervous breakdown. She was on sick leave for ages.

EXIT ALEXANDRA.

ROSIE
Alexandra is right. We should do something.

23. EXT. PARKING LOT DAY

MAGGIE AND ROSIE TAKE THE LAPTOP TO LOST PROPERTY.

24. EXT. GARDENS DAY

MATT WALKS GLOOMY THROUGH THE GARDENS. IT BEGINS TO SNOW.

25. INT. RECEPTION DAY

CLARE SORTS THE POST. SHE IS STILL FURIOUS AND PARCELS ARE FLYING.

26. INT. HALL DAY

ROSIE AND MAGGIE STAND BY THE BURSAR’S OFFICE DOOR.

ROSIE
Are we really going to do this?

MAGGIE NODS AND KNOCKS ON THE DOOR.

MAGGIE
Let’s face the lion.

27. EXT. GARDENS DAY

MATT IS DEPRESSED. HE IS WALKING THROUGH THE GARDENS. IT IS SNOWING AND HE IS THINKING.

MATT VO
I have done it now … She’ll never speak to me again … Dear oh dear oh dear … What is a man to do … She’ll never have me unless I do something really special … Surprise her … With what … I have ruined my chances … Maybe propose to her tonight … No, that would never work … There must be something I can do …

MATT HAS STRAYED ONTO SILVER BIRCH LAWN AND LOOKS AT SOMETHING STRANGE.

MATT VO
What sort of mad hatter idea is that … Crazy … But wait … Hang on …

CLARE VO
It needs something shiny. Or silvery.

MATT PUNCHES THE AIR.

MATT
That’s it!!!!

Episode Five: The Winter Ball (part two)

2008-10-27T05:19:00.000-07:00

13. INT. FLAT BEDROOM DAY

GLEN AND CHRISTINE ARE HAVING SEX WHEN GLEN SUDDENLY HITS OUT AND GRABS A ‘FLEA’ FROM THE PILLOW.

GLEN
Got the blighter!

CHRISTINE
Bloody hell Glen! Will you stop that?

GLEN ROLLS OFF HER AND KILLS THE ‘FLEA’ BETWEEN HIS NAILS.

GLEN
They give me the creeps.

CHRISTINE
There is nothing in your bed!

GLEN
There are hundreds of the damn things!

GLEN LOOKS INTENSELY AT CHRISTINE’S FOREHEAD.

CHRISTINE
What! What!

GLEN
Lay still, very still.

CHRISTINE
Glen, stop it! You’re frightening me!

GLEN SUDDENLY SLAPS CHRISTINE’S FOREHEAD.

GLEN
Got it.

CHRISTINE HURRIES OUT OF BED AND BEGINS TO DRESS HERSELF.

GLEN
What are you doing?

CHRISTINE
If you think that I’m staying for one more second with you …

GLEN
I’m only trying to get rid of them!

CHRISTINE
You’re mad!

CHRISTINE ANGRILY STOMPS TO THE DOOR.

GLEN
Chrissie!

CHRISTINE
Sort yourself out!

EXIT CHRISTINE. GLEN CATCHES ANOTHER ‘FLEA’.

14. INT. RECEPTION DAY

CLARE HAS TAKEN THE FLOWERS AND THE GREENERY FROM THE WREATHS AND ARRANGED IT UPON SEVERAL GREEN BASES. SHE SHOWS THEM TO MATT.

CLARE
What do you think?

MATT
That looks alright to me.

CLARE
Mmmmm … Something is missing.

MATT
I can get you some glitter if you like. I keep plenty in the shed.

CLARE
I don’t know …

MATT
Oh come on my little tweety pie. It will make it look much more festive.

CLARE
It just isn’t right.

15. INT. HOUSE DORMITORY DAY

SOPHIE, ALEXANDRA AND CHARLOTTE TRY ON THEIR DRESSES FOR THE WINTER BALL.

SOPHIE
Does my bum look big in this?

CHARLOTTE
No. It looks perfect.

SOPHIE
Bummer. I want it to look huge!

ALEXANDRA
You’ll never get him. Not if I can help it.

CHARLOTTE
Who? What don’t I know?

ALEXANDRA
Oh, she’s after that computer nerd.

CHARLOTTE
Cosmo?

SOPHIE
He’s not a nerd! He’s cute, with the nicest bottom.

CHARLOTTE
And a cute bulge in his trousers!

ALEXANDRA
He’s not for her.

CHARLOTTE
What! You want him?

ALEXANDRA
He doesn’t like thieves.

SOPHIE
I’m not a thief!

ALEXANDRA
Fraudster then.

CHARLOTTE
Are you going to inform him of our little money making scam? You horror!

ALEXANDRA
It’s you two who are the horrors! I hate what you are doing!

ALEXANDRA STORMS OUT OF THE DORMITORY.

CHARLOTTE
Now what?

SOPHIE
Don’t worry. She will change her mind when she gets her share.

16. EXT. PARKING LOT DAY

FURIOUS, PIPE CLAMPED BETWEEN HIS TEETH, ADAM STRIDES AWAY FROM LUCY WHO RUNS AFTER HIM.

LUCY
But Adam!

ADAM
No!!

ADAM MARCHES FASTER. LUCY SLOWLY CATCHES UP.

LUCY
It wasn’t meant like that!

ADAM
Yes it was!

LUCY
It just sounded like it!

ADAM
The answer is still no!!

LUCY
They will kill me!!

ADAM
Tough!!

LUCY
You heartless man!!

ADAM SUDDENLY STOPS. LUCY BUMPS INTO HIM FROM BEHIND. ADAM TURNS AROUND AND PUSHES HER AWAY.

ADAM
Me? Heartless? Have you heard yourself?

LUCY
I … I …

ADAM
Yes indeed! I,I,I. Did you ever have regarded my feelings?

LUCY
I …

ADAM
Of course not.

LUCY
What are you talking about!

ADAM SUCKS ON HIS PIPE. IT HAS GONE OUT AND HE RELIGHTS IT.

ADAM
For months I kissed the ground you walked. I worshipped you. The way you look, the way you smile, your fierce temper … And you were only after my name! How heartless is that?

LUCY
That is not true!!

ADAM
No? Well tell me, what is untrue about that?

LUCY
If you had not snooped into my past …

ADAM
Psssss!! It’s a good thing that I did. I told you I could make your life a misery. I might just do that. Now you have betrayed my deepest feelings.

CHRISTINE WALKS TOWARDS THEM.

ADAM
Better still! She can do the dirty work for me. I’ve had enough!!

ANGRILY, ADAM STRIDES AWAY, LEAVING LUCY DUMBFOUNDED.

17. INT. SHED DAY

MATT WHISTLES A TUNE AS HE PUTS SEVERAL LITTLE POTS OF GLITTER ONTO THE WORKBENCH. HE HEARS FOOTSTEPS APPROACHING.

MATT
Is that my little hummingbird?

MO ENTERS. MATT HAS HIS BACK TO HER.

MATT
My sweet little apple pie?

MO
I beg your pardon?

MATT TURNS, ALMOST KNOCKING THE GLITTER OFF THE WORKBENCH.

MATT
Oh, Mrs Pitt! I thought it was someone else!

MO
Evidently.

MATT
What can I do for you?

MO
Who did you think that I was?

MATT
Well … Ah … Obviously not you!

MO
Well?

MATT
Oh, just someone.

MO
Who? Are you having an affair with someone at the school? Matt? Who is she? Is it a teacher? No, that can’t be. A cleaner? Someone from the kitchen perhaps? Tell me!

MATT
I … I can’t. Sorry.

MO
Why not?

MATT
The lady herself doesn’t know yet.

MO
Well, when she does let me in the know. I love romance.

MATT
Meanwhile, what can I get you?

MO
I would like some toilet cleaner please.

MATT OPENS A CUPBOARD

MATT
Is two enough?

MO
It will do.

MO TAKES THE BOTTLES AND BEGINS TO WALK AWAY.

MATT
Oh, by the way, Mrs Pitt …

MO TURNS.

MATT
The other day, when you thought that I blackmailed you …

MO
That’s best forgotten.

MATT
Yes, well, not by me.

MO
It was a mistake. Let’s not talk about it anymore.

MATT
I was wondering, you see, who possibly put that envelope in my pocket.

MO
Well, I don’t know.

MATT
Did you tell anyone about your suspicions?

MO
I don’t think so … Or did I … I can’t quite remember.

MATT
Please, Mrs Pitt. Cast your mind back.

MO
Well … I saw you empty the bin liners in the skip … I asked for help on the matter …

MATT
Who! Who did you ask for help?

MO
Don’t interrupt my thoughts Matt.

MATT
It’s important.

MO
Well, I then went back and spoke to … And … Oh dear god!

MATT
What is it!!!

MO CLASPES HER HAND OVER HER MOUTH AND WALKS OUT, LEAVING A PUZZLED MATT.

18. INT. HOUSE MAIN AREA DAY

MAGGIE AND ROSIE ARE LOOKING OUT OF THE WINDOW TO WHERE THE PEANUTS IN THEIR SHELLS ARE STRUNG BETWEEN SHRUBS.

MAGGIE
I don’t understand it. The tits are not even trying!

ROSIE
They’re like the kids! They wouldn’t recognise a potato plant!

MAGGIE
Fast food eh?

CHRISTINE ENTERS AND WALKS TOWARDS THE STAIRS.

ROSIE
Chrissie! Chrissie, wait!

CHRISTINE IGNORES THE CLEANERS. MAGGIE AND ROSIE HURRY TOWARDS CHRISTINE.

MAGGIE
Christine!

CHRISTINE IMPATIENTLY TURNS. SHE LOOKS AT THE CLEANERS AND THEN LOOKS UP.

CHRISTINE
What!!!

MAGGIE
Not you too!

ROSIE
What’s going on!

CHRISTINE
You know what’s going on!

MAGGIE
No, we don’t!

ROSIE
Speak to us!

CHRISTINE
I shouldn’t even speak to you!

MAGGIE AND ROSIE GIVE EACH OTHER A PUZZLED LOOK.

CHRISTINE
You betrayed them!

MAGGIE AND ROSIE
Who!!!

CHRISTINE
Josephine and Beatrice!

ROSIE
What!

CHRISTINE
Mrs Pitt told us that you found those bottles in their room and grassed on them! How could you!

MAGGIE AND ROSIE GIVE EACH OTHER A HORRIFIED LOOK.

CHRISTINE
Because of you, they are gated!

ANGRILY, CHRISTINE WALKS UP THE STAIRS.

CHRISTINE
We will never trust you again!

MAGGIE
But …

CHRISTINE
Go to hell, both of you!

CHRISTINE STORMS UPSTAIRS.

ROSIE
Bloody hell! The cow!

MAGGIE
She promised not to!

ENTER A SEETHING MO.

MAGGIE
Mo, I need to …

MO
Not now!

MO STORMS UPSTAIRS. MAGGIE AND ROSIE LOOK FLABBERGASTED AT EACH OTHER.

Episode Five: The Winter Ball (part one)

2008-09-27T04:23:00.000-07:00

1. INT. HOUSE MAIN AREA DAY

MAGGIE AND ROSIE ENTER, THEY STOP AND WAIT AS A HOUSE MEETING IS IN PROGRESS. AMY SPEAKS TO FORTY GIRLS INCLUDING CHRISTINE, ANTOINETTE, ALEXANDRA, SOPHIE AND CHARLOTTE. THE GIRLS ARE SPRAWLED ON SOFAS, CHAIRS AND ON THE FLOOR. MO SITS ON A CHAIR.

AMY
… Right. Is that clear?

THE GIRLS MURMUR THAT IT IS.

AMY
Next. We have a thief. Sophie’s laptop has been stolen. Is there anyone here who could help me with this?

AMY SURVEYS THE GIRLS.

AMY
No. I didn’t think so. Very well. The thief will be found out in due course. As you know, there are few lessons today. I want every one of you to behave impeccably. This afternoon everyone will get dressed for the winter ball. Without fuss! Is that clear?

THE GIRLS MURMUR THAT IT IS.

AMY
Good! Mrs Pitt, is there anything that you might want to add?

MO PUTS HER NOTES ASIDE AND IS ABOUT TO RISE.

AMY
Apparently not.

MO STOPS IN HER TRACKS AND LOOKS APPALLED AT AMY.

AMY
All right you lot! You can go! Josephine and Beatrice, you must see the Second Master to receive your punishment at once. Antoinette, come with me.

SOME GIRLS MAKE THEIR WAY TO THE EXIT, GLANCING AT ROSIE AND MAGGIE AS THEY PASS. OTHERS HEAD FOR THEIR ROOMS. FOUR GIRLS ENTER THE KITCHEN. JOSEPHINE AND BEATRICE PURPOSELY LOOK UP AND AWAY WHEN THEY PASS THE CLEANERS. ANTOINETTE FOLLOWS AMY.

ANTOINETTE
Don’t tell me. You are blaming me for the thieving, aren’t you?

AMY
What makes you say that?

ANTOINETTE
Pfff, I’m blamed for everything in this stupid school.

AMY OPENS THE DOOR TO HER APARTMENT.

AMY
Come on through.

2. INT. HOUSE APARTMENT LOUNGE DAY

AMY FOLLOWS ANTOINETTE INTO THE LOUNGE.

AMY
Sit down.

ANTOINETTE AND AMY SIT DOWN ON OPPOSITE CHAIRS.

AMY
Well now Antoinette. You have been given one last chance.

ANTOINETTE
See? You’re picking on me again.

AMY
Oh no, young lady! It is not as simple as that! You have overdosed twice this term! Crack cocaine has been found in your room! You are very lucky not to have been expelled!

ANTOINETTE
Expelled? I’m immune to the school’s system!! Don’t you forget the extra ten thousand my parents pay to keep me at this lousy place!

AMY
Poppycock!

ANTOINETTE
Oh yeah! Ha!!!

AMY
One step out of line young lady and I will make absolutely certain that you will be expelled!! You will finish your education in Germany or Switzerland! You know this very well! You toe the line from now on, or else!!!

3. INT. HOUSE KITCHEN SAY

MAGGIE AND ROSIE ENTER THE KITCHEN. FOUR GIRLS ARE MAKING TOAST.

MAGGIE
Good morning.

THE GIRLS LOOK UP AND AWAY AND WALK OUT OF THE KITCHEN.

ROSIE
Again! They have been like this for days!

MAGGIE
A new fad?

ENTER A SEETHING MO

MO
Did you see that! She deliberately cut me out, the cow! I had a whole list prepared for the girls and she never gave me a chance!!

EXIT A SEETHING MO.

ROSIE
And what was that about?

MAGGIE
She’s in one of her moods. Look!

MAGGIE SHOWS ROSIE PEANUTS, IN THEIR SHELLS, STRINGED TOGETHER ON A LONG THREAD.

4. INT. RECEPTION DAY

CLARE OPENS AND SHUTS BOXES ANGRILY AS MATT ENTERS.

MATT
And how is my little dove today?

CLARE
Not at all happy!

MATT
Why is that my angel?

CLARE
What is the matter with you talking like that!

MATT
Just showing you my affection!

CLARE
They have sent me the wrong flowers!

MATT LOOKS INSIDE ONE OF THE BOXES.

MATT
What’s wrong with them?

CLARE
What’s wrong with them! You men, you are an ignorant lot! Look!

CLARE HOLDS UP A WREATH.

CLARE
They must have accidentally swapped them with a funeral parlour order.

MATT
Phone them and get it put right!

CLARE
I tried that nincompoop! They aren’t answering the phone! What can I do!

MATT
Give me the address and I’ll return them.

CLARE
Would you?

MATT
I’ll do anything for my little sweetie pie.

5. EXT. PARKING LOT DAY

CHRISTINE WALKS TOWARDS GLEN’S FLAT WHEN ADAM STOPS HER.

ADAM
Ah, just the person I was looking for.

CHRISTINE
Mr Parson?

ADAM
I need you to do something for me.

CHRISTINE
Not today, Mr Parson. I’m helping with the winter ball.

ADAM
Well, that has to wait. This is more important.

CHRISTINE
I don’t have the time.

ADAM
Then you must find the time. Check this for me will you? On the Internet?

CHRISTINE LOOKS AT THE NAMES ON A PIECE OF PAPER AS ADAM LIGHTS HIS PIPE.

CHRISTINE
Why should I check out security?

ADAM
Because I’m asking you.

ADAM IMPATIENTLY SUCKS ON HIS PIPE.

CHRISTINE
Well, I’m afraid that you have to ask someone else. I’ve got better things to do.

CHRISTINE BEGINS TO WALK AWAY.

ADAM
I might have a word with the Headmaster if you don’t! About a little matter between you and Glen.

CHRISTINE TURNS.

CHRISTINE
Please Mr Parson don’t do this.

ADAM
You are forcing me!

CHRISTINE
And you are me!

ADAM
Enlighten me please?

CHRISTINE
You might know mine but I know your secret.

ADAM
Do you?

CHRISTINE
If you want to keep Miss Brown here …

ADAM
I see …

CHRISTINE
I read the information I gave you!

ADAM
My dearest girl. What are you trying to say?

CHRISTINE
You know very well what I’m trying to say.

ADAM WATCHES CHRISTINE WHILST SUCKING ON HIS PIPE.

ADAM
Stalemate, what?

6. INT. FLAT BEDROOM DAY

GLEN AND CHRISTINE, PASSIONATELY KISSING, ENTER.

CHRISTINE
A whole day!

GLEN
Just the two of us!

CHRISTINE
We can have a bed day!

GLEN
Bliss!

CHRISTINE
Come on then! Undress!!

CHRISTINE BEGINS TO UNDRESS GLEN AND PULLS HIM ONTO THE BED.

GLEN
Hang on …

CHRISTINE
What!

GLEN PULLS THE DUVET AWAY.

GLEN
I have to check the bed first.

CHRISTINE
What for?

GLEN
Fleas.

7. INT. HOUSE MAIN AREA DAY

MAGGIE AND ROSIE ARE LOOKING OUT OF THE WINDOW. STRUNG BETWEEN THE SHRUBS ON THE LAWN ARE SEVEN STRINGS OF PEANUTS IN THEIR SHELLS.

MAGGIE
What do you think?

ROSIE
Hmmmmm … Nice?

MAGGIE
You just wait.

ROSIE
Oh?

MAGGIE
My mother and I used to watch them.

ROSIE
A ready made net would do for me.

MAGGIE
This is more fun.

MO APPROACHES.

MO
What are you two doing? Loitering around? No work to do?

MAGGIE
What do you think?

MAGGIE POINTS AT THE PEANUT STRINGS OUTSIDE.

MO
Right.

MO WALKS AWAY.

ROSIE
She doesn’t see the point either.

MAGGIE
Come on. Let’s do some work.

8. INT. HOUSE DOUBLE ROOM DAY

MAGGIE AND ROSIE ENTER. TWO GIRLS, SITTING BEHIND THEIR DESK, LOOK AT THEM, LOOK UP IMMEDIATELY, RISE AND AVOIDING THE CLEANERS, EXIT.

MAGGIE
I don’t like this at all.

ROSIE
It’s as if they have put us in Coventry!

MAGGIE
But why? We’ve done nothing wrong?

ROSIE
This has gone on too long.

MAGGIE
Shall we ask Mo?

ROSIE
In her mood?

MAGGIE
Come on. Let’s find Christine. At least she’s sensible.

9. INT. FLAT BEDROOM DAY

CHRISTINE, IN BRA AND THONG, SITS ON A CHAIR AND WATCHES GLEN CHANGING THE BED LINEN.

CHRISTINE
This is the third time you’ve changed the bed.

GLEN
They are everywhere!

CHRISTINE
Well, I can’t see any.

GLEN
There, look another blighter.

CHRISTINE
Look you. If this is what you’re doing the whole day, I don’t see the point in staying.

GLEN
Right. Hop in!

CHRISTINE
Are you sure? No more fleas?

GLEN SWEEPS HER INTO THE BED AND THEY PASSIONATELY KISS.

10. INT. RECEPTION DAY

MATT RETURNES WITH THE BOXES.

CLARE
Finally! What took you so long!

MATT
Bad news I’m afraid.

CLARE LOOKS INTO ONE OF THE BOXES. SHE TAKES A WREATH OUT AND HOLDS IT UP.

MATT
The shop’s closed. It’s shut for a funeral.

CLARE
What am I going to do!

MATT
Don’t despair my little squirrel. Matt is here to help you out.

11. INT. HOUSE OFFICE DAY

MO IS ON THE PHONE.

MO
… I know Lisa … It’s a scandal that the girl is still here … No that cow doesn’t speak to me … Yes … The way she treats me … Yes … I had a written warning … Yes …

THERE IS A KNOCK AT THE DOOR AND AMY ENTERS.

MO
Of course … I shall see what I can do … Right away Mr Robinson, thank you.

MO HANGS UP.

MO
Mrs Short. What can I do for you?

AMY
Who was that on the phone Mrs Pitt?

MO
The domestic supplier. Not that it is any of your business of course.

AMY
I thought that Matt dealt with such matters. Or is it tampons you are after?

MO
It is a house matter.

AMY
Quite.

AN AWKWARD SILENCE FOLLOWS. AMY TWIDDLES WITH HER WEDDING RING. MO MOVES PAPERS ON HER DESK.

AMY
I have some bad news.

MO
Oh?

AMY
Yes. I don’t quite know how to say this.

MO
Well, I am listening.

AMY
Josephine and Beatrice have received their punishment.

MO
Is that the bad news, Mrs Short?

AMY
No Mrs Pitt. The bad news for you is that they are gated for the remainder of this term.

MO
What has that to do with me?

AMY
They are not to attend the winter ball.

MO
A reasonable punishment.

AMY
Nor are you.

MO
Excuse me!

AMY
You are to supervise them in the house this evening.

AMY TURNS AND EXITS, LEVING MO GOB SMACKED.

12. INT. COMMON ROOM DAY

ADAM DRINKS COFFEE AND READS THE TIMES NEWSPAPER. ENTER A FLUSTERED LUCY.

LUCY
Adam!

ADAM LOOKS UP FROM HIS NEWSPAPER.

ADAM
Ah, Lucy. Always a pleasure to see you.

LUCY
I need your help!

ADAM
Calm down my dear. Sit down. How can I help you?

LUCY, NERVOUSLY, SITS DOWN. SHE HOLDS HER MOBILE PHONE UP.

LUCY
I’m getting those crazy calls!

ADAM
Who from?

LUCY
That’s just it! I don’t know! I’m scared Adam!

ADAM
Christine refuses to check security.

LUCY
It’s too late for that. I think that they are on to me.

ADAM
What would you like me to do?

LUCY
I’m taking up your offer.

ADAM
Marry me?

LUCY
And leave the country under your name. I need to get out as soon as possible Adam.

ADAM
Of course! I shall make the necessary arrangements straight away. You have no idea how happy this makes me.

ADAM RISES AND EXCITEDLY LIGHTS HIS PIPE.

ADAM
We shall travel lightly and leave under the cover of night. Come with me.

LUCY
No, no Adam … I just need your name! I will leave the country alone as soon as possible.

To Keep Or Not To Keep

2008-09-24T06:49:00.000-07:00

I am seriously thinking of closing this blog. The story is way out of date and I'm a little tired of it.

When I wrote this script in 1998 another script was reviewed by an agent who was very impressed by that particular story, a three episodes costume drama. He kept me dangling for nine months and whilst I waited patiently I wrote this eighteen episode script meant for television. Then I received an answer from said agent, he wrote that he had lost enthusiasm. No more, no less. I phoned but he was never there and he never phoned back. Excuse me!! Later a producer wrote back that 'Only experienced script writers are asked to write costume drama'. Bollocks, I thought.

Anyway, I tried for several years to get accepted by either an agent or a producer and that's when I hit catch 22. The producer would not accept me because I didn't have an agent and the agent would not accept me because I had not been produced.

Then I tried television companies direct. Months went by and I discovered that they have readers who don't read.

Okay, perhaps the script was not up to their very strict format, or maybe I used the wrong font, but at least read it and see if there is a viewers market. But no.

So I gave up and anyway Middle Ditch was born and posted online and, to my delight, began to get a following.

Now, I'm tired of this story set in an English boarding school. I might just post the last episode of the Autumn Term but then, I think, that's it and concentrate on Middle Ditch.

Synopsis Of Episode Five 'The Winter Ball'

2008-09-12T10:10:00.000-07:00

In this last episode of the Autumn Term all the story lines: Lucy's Secret, Glen's Affair With Christine, Adam's Infatuation With Lucy and The Extra Ten Thousand Pounds Antoinette's Parents Pay To Keep Their Rebellious Daughter At Grindhirst School, are solved.

Charlotte and Sophie made a plan to make money, dragging an unwilling Alexandra into the scheme.

Mo has told the girls of Silver Birch House that Maggie has grassed on them and the girls put the cleaners into Coventry.

Clare has been send the wrong flowers for the Winter Ball and has to sort the problem.

Glen's flat has a flea infestation with mixed results for Christine.

Lucy creates a stir when she declares that she only wants to marry Adam to use his name and flee the country alone.

Mo discovers that it is Antoinette who was the blackmailer.

A confused conversation between Matt and Clare ends up disastrous.

Richard, Amy's husband, returns on leave from the army.

Episode Four: The Fire Drill (part six)

2008-08-28T03:37:00.000-07:00

46. INT. HOUSE OFFICE DAY

MO IS ON THE TELEPHONE.

MO
Yes … What a cow eh? … I know! …

MAGGIE KNOCKS AT MO’S OPEN DOOR.

MO
Hang on Lisa … What is it Maggie!

MAGGIE
Can I have a word please?

MO
Can’t you see I’m busy?

MAGGIE
It’s important.

MO
Oh, very well. Speak later Lisa.

MO HANGS UP AND IMPATIENTLY TURNS TO MAGGIE.

MO
What is so important that you have to interrupt my work!

MAGGIE
It’s difficult.

MO
What on earth can be difficult in your type of work!

MAGGIE
Please Mo, I need some help.

MO
Oh, very well, spit it out.

MAGGIE
Would you be so kind and check up on my work?

MO
Why would I do that? I know that you do a good job.

MAGGIE
In Josephine’s room?

MO
Tell me more.

MAGGIE
You’ll find bottles in her tuck box.

MO
What sort of bottles?

MAGGIE
Empty wine and spirit bottles.

MO
I see. This is serious.

MAGGIE
In that way you find them and not me.

MO
I will need to inform Amy.

MAGGIE
I understand that. Just don’t mention my name.

MO
Why on earth not!

MAGGIE
The girls trust me and if they find out that it was me that dobbed them in, they will hide things from me what they now openly speak about.

MO
Right. I shall see what I can do.

MAGGIE
Thank you.

MAGGIE TURNS TO LEAVE THE OFFICE.

MO
Oh, by the way …

MAGGIE TURNS.

MO
I have been told about your irresponsible and reckless behaviour.

MAGGIE
Sorry?

MO
I will have to report you and Rosie to the Bursar of course.

MAGGIE
But we …

MO
No Maggie! No buts! You don’t have the authority to enter the house during a fire drill.

MAGGIE
We had no choice Mo! You were not here, nor were Amy or Christine.

MO
Amy was not here either?

MAGGIE
No! She came when it was nearly over!

MO
Really?

MAGGIE
We had to do something Mo.

MO
Quite. Mind you, we can’t have martyrs here.

MAGGIE
Understood.

EXIT MAGGIE. MO RUBS HER HANDS IN GLEE.

MO
Excellent!

MO PICKS UP THE PHONE AND DIALS A NUMBER.

47. INT. RECEPTION DAY

MATT, SUFFERING FROM A COLD, AND CLARE PUT THE LAST OF THE STAMPS ON THE ENVELOPES. MATT SNEEZES AND BLOWS HIS NOSE WITH A LOUD HOOT.

MATT
It was a real catfight. You should have heard them!

CLARE
You are exaggerating.

MATT
They called each other names!

CLARE
Matt! They’re ladies!

MATT
Not from where I was standing.

CLARE
Actually Matt, I’ve been thinking.

MATT
Be careful! Don’t overdo it!

CLARE
I’m serious. It’s about the blackmail. Who could have possibly put the envelope into your pocket?

MATT
Beats me.

CLARE
And when exactly was that envelope put into your pocket?

MATT
Well, well. Inspector Frump.

CLARE
And even more important, why?

MATT
You missed your calling.

CLARE
I reckon that the culprit needed a victim to put Mrs Pitt off the scent.

MATT
Eh??

CLARE
I think that Mrs Pitt saw this person, and did not realize it.

MATT
Well, she’s not exactly known for her brainpower.

CLARE
You have to talk to her.

MATT
Me? Why?

CLARE
To find out whom the last person she saw that day was. Perhaps Mo inadvertently spoke to the blackmailer about the blackmail.

MATT
Right.

CLARE
Promise me that you will.

MATT CROSSES HIS HEART.

MATT
I will. Even though I think it’s a waste of time.

THERE IS A KNOCK AT THE DOOR. CLARE WALKS TO AND OPENS THE DOOR.

DELIVERY MAN
How are you Clare?

CLARE
Goodness!

DELIVERY MAN
Special delivery, sign here please.

CLARE SIGNS AND TURNS TO MATT.

CLARE
You said that it would take days!

MATT
It usually does!

DELIVERY MAN
Urgent, I was told. Well, see you again.

CLARE
Bye then.

CLARE READS THE INSTRUCTION BOOKLET.

CLARE
It’s a computerized franking machine!

MATT
The sooner it’s installed the better.

THE TELEPHONE RINGS AND CLARE PICKS UP THE PHONE.

CLARE
Grindhirst school, good afternoon … How can I … When? … Thank you.

CLARE HANGS UP AND TURNS TO MATT.

CLARE
We have an invitation.

48. EXT. SILVER BIRCH LAWN DAY

AMY, MO, MAGGIE, ROSIE, GIRLS, MATT, CLARE, ADAM, LUCY, GLEN, CHRISTINE AND A FEW OTHER TEACHERS ARE GATHERED ON THE LAWN. ANTOINETTE, SOPHIE, ALEXANDRA AND CHARLOTTE ARE ABSENT. CHRISTINE INCHES CLOSER TO GLEN.

GLEN
How did it go?

CHRISTINE
I forged Matron’s signature. You?

GLEN
In the doghouse.

CUT TO LUCY AND ADAM.

ADAM
I checked up on security.

LUCY
And?

ADAM
Nothing.

LUCY
What a relief!

ADAM
I shall ask Christine to check their names on the Internet. She is good at that.

LUCY
Is she?

ADAM
That’s how I found out about you.

LUCY
Christine knows about me? Adam! How could you!

ADAM
Not to worry my dear. Christine can be trusted. She is, after all, Head of House and most responsible.

CUT TO MATT, SUFFERING A COLD, AND CLARE.

MATT
What utter nonsense.

CLARE
Don’t talk daft. I think it’s endearing.

MATT
I’ve got better things to do.

CLARE
You stay right here.

CUT TO ROSIE AND MAGGIE. ROSIE LOOKS AT HER WATCH.

ROSIE
I hope they hurry up. It’s nearly one. Time to go home and forget that this day ever happened.

MAGGIE
Don’t you know?

ROSIE
What?

MAGGIE
The Bursar wants to see us at one.

ROSIE
Robin Bragg? Why!

CUT TO AMY AND MO.

AMY
It’s amazing don’t you think so?

MO
Is it?

AMY
The turnout is absolutely tremendous. I am so pleased that the project was taken so seriously.

MO
I’m pleased that you are pleased.

AMY
All I need to do next is deal with Antoinette. After that we should be back to normal.

MO
Whatever that is.

AMY
Oh come on Mo! Forgive and forget eh? It was just a silly argument. Let’s just put it behind us.

MO
If you say so.

THE SCHOOL BAND WALKS OUT OF SILVER BIRCH HOUSE. THEY PLAY ‘ALL THINGS BRIGHT AND BEAUTIFUL’. THE SCHOOL’S CHAPLAIN FOLLOWS THE BAND. ALEXANDRA, SOPHIE AND CHARLOTTE FOLLOW THE CHAPLAIN, DRESSED IN BLACK. THEY WALK TOWARDS A HOLE IN THE LAWN. EVERYBODY FORMS A CIRCLE AROUND THE HOLE.

AMY
Thank you all so much for coming. Chaplain … over to you.

CHAPLAIN
We are gathered here together to give thanks for the lives of Becks, Posh, Jonny and Kylie …

MATT BLOWS HIS NOSE WITH A LOUD HOOTING SOUND. ADAM LIGHTS HIS PIPE.

ADAM
Sentimental fool …

49. INT. HALL DAY

A MISERABLE GLEN SITS NEXT TO A GLOOMY LOOKING CLARE. TWO CHAIRS AWAY SITS A WORRIED LOOKING MO. AMY WALKS INTO THE HALL. SHE SEES MO AND SEETHES. SHE SITS DOWN THREE CHAIRS AWAY FROM MO. MO FLASHES HER A SARCASTIC SMILE. AMY FLASHES HER A SARCASTIC SMILE BACK. THE BURSAR’S DOOR OPENS. MAGGIE AND ROSIE, HOLDING A BRAVERY AWARD EACH, EXIT THE ROOM ACCOMPANIED BY ROBIN BRAGG. AS THEY WALK AWAY, ROBIN ANGRILY LOOKS AT THE ANXIOUSLY WAITING AMY, MO, CLARE AND GLEN. HE GLARES AT GLEN.

BURSAR
Mr Miller! I will see you next!

WITH A DEEP SIGH, GLEN RISES FROM HIS CHAIR.

FREEZE FRAME

END OF EPISODE FOUR

Episode Four: The Fire Drill (part five)

2008-08-11T06:05:00.000-07:00

43. INT. RECEPTION DAY

CLARE IS PUTTING STAMPS ON ENVELOPES AS MATT RETURNS. HE BLOWS HIS NOSE WITH A HOOTING SOUND.

MATT
That didn’t go well.

CLARE
What didn’t go well?

MATT
Mr Fisher was hopping mad. For all we know, Mr Miller perished in the fire.

CLARE
Mr Miller? What was he doing at Silver Birch?

MATT
He will be in big trouble!

CLARE
What are you talking about?

MATT
The fire drill.

CLARE
What fire drill?

MATT
The one we just had! What’s the matter with you?

CLARE
That was a drill?

MATT
Yes! Did you think it was for real?

CLARE
Nobody told me!

MATT
Don’t be so daft. I know that you’re the last one informed, but you can’t tell me that you didn’t know.

CLARE
Oh … My … God!!

CLARE WALKS TO THE TELEPHONE. SHE PUTS THE VOLLUME UP AND LISTENS TO THE MESSAGES.

WOMAN ONE VO
This is outrageous …

CLARE PRESSES A BUTTON AND THE NEXT MESSAGE IS HEARD.

WOMAN TWO VO
If you think that I …

CLARE PRESSES THE BUTTON AND THE NEXT MESSAGE IS HEARD.

MAN VO
My daughter will be removed …

CLARE PRESSES THE BUTTON.

MATT
They’re still at it.

CLARE
Parents!!

THE NEXT MESSAGE IS HEARD.

BURSAR’S SECRETARY VO
Hello Clare. The fire drill will commence in thirty minutes. Thank you.

MATT
There you are! You were told!

CLARE
It’s a good thing that I didn’t know. Silver birch could have burned to the ground.

MATT
Let’s just hope, for your sake, that the Bursar has the same view.

44. INT. HOUSE KITCHEN DAY

AMY SURVEYS THE FIRE AND WATER DAMAGED KITCHEN WITH HER HAND CLASPED OVER HER MOUTH. ALEXANDRA ENTERS AND RUNS TO WHERE SHE HAS LEFT HER EGG BABIES. THE FOUR EGGS LAY BROKEN IN THE BOX.

ALEXANDRA
My babies! My babies are dead!!

AMY
Stop this at once Alexandra!

ALEXANDRA
They have been killed!

AMY
Alex, go to your dorm!

ALEXANDRA
My little Posh and Becks!!

AMY
They are eggs!!

ALEXANDRA
They are my children! You told us never to leave them alone!!

AMY
This was an extreme situation.

ALEXANDRA
Rosie made me!

AMY
Oh Alexandra, don’t make such a fuss!

ALEXANDRA
A fuss!! Is that what you call this? I have lost my babies and it’s all your fault!!

AMY
My fault! How do you make that?

ALEXANDRA
You should have told us about the fire drill!! I could have saved them! Rosie would have let me take them!

AMY
This is what a drill is for! We need to practice the emergency procedures! It is as simple as that! No one is to blame for your broken eggs. Tomorrow I shall give you new ones. Now, go to your dorm.

ALEXANDRA
I don’t want new ones! I want my children back! Is this what you do? You are a cruel woman! Get a new child when the old one dies! How heartless is that!!

AMY SIGHS. SHE BEGINS TO FEEL PITY ON ALEXANDRA.

AMY
You are right, of course. How silly of me. You are to be congratulated on the care you gave your babies. What would you like to do next?

ALEXANDRA
I need to think about it.

AMY
You do that.

ALEXANDRA
Well? Are you not going to offer me your condolences?

AMY SMILES AND STRETCHES OUT HER HAND.

AMY
Please accept my sincere condolences.

ALEXANDRA TAKES AMY’S HAND AND SHAKES IT.

ALEXANDRA
Thank you Mrs Short.

EXIT A DISTRAUGHT ALEXANDRA WITH THE BOX WITH THE BROKEN EGGS. ENTER MO.

MO
What a mess!! Terrible!

AMY
Yes, it is rather.

MO
I shall get Maggie and Rosie to clean it up.

AMY
Not to bother. I have informed Matt. Where were you?

MO
Pardon?

AMY
It’s a simple question, Mo. Where were you when the fire drill began?

MO
Fire drill?

AMY
Yes! I informed you about it last week!

MO
No you did not!

AMY
You also had a memo from the Bursar!

MO
I didn’t see a memo!

AMY
Most irresponsible!

MO
You were irresponsible not to leave me a memo!

AMY
During working hours, you are not to leave the house unattended, you know that! Where were you!

MO
I had to go into town.

AMY
Into … To do what! Do you know the danger the girls faced? Not to mention Maggie and Rosie! They did your job and evacuated the house! Antoinette could have burned to death!

MO
That would have been one less troublesome child!

AMY
I beg your pardon!!

MO
Well …

AMY
It is totally improper behaviour! You are a disgrace! How could you say such a thing! I will have to report you to the Bursar!

MO
You do that! I shall tell him that you are a sloppy House Mistress!!

AMY
How dare you!

MO
I would have been here if you had informed me about the drill! You did not!! The house was quiet and I went to town to get tampons for the girls as there are none left in the store! I told Maggie to inform you! She is lax too!

AMY
Is that your excuse! Maggie forgot to inform me about an unauthorised absence? I think not!!

MO
Talking about unauthorised! What were those two doing entering the house during a fire!! They should be sacked immediately!!

AMY
They should be given a medal! They saved Antoinette! Her floor was on fire when Maggie discovered her! I shall mention this unselfish bravery to the Bursar and the Headmaster!

MO
Of course you will!!

AMY
I shall also inform him about the amount of unauthorised time you spend on the telephone!!

MATT ENTERS WHISTLING A TUNE.

MATT
What can I do for you ladies?

MO
You really are a cow!

EXIT A SEETHING MO.

AMY
Bitch!!

EXIT A FURIOUS AMY.

MATT
Flipping heck!

45. INT. HOUSE MAIN AREA DAY

AMY, SEETHING, LEAVES THE KITCHEN. MO, SEETHING, ENTERS HER OFFICE. A HAPPY CHRISTINE ENTERS THE MAIN AREA FROM OUTSIDE.

AMY
Where have you been!

CHRISTINE
In town! Why? What is that smell?

AMY
Who signed the chit!

CHRISTINE
Mrs Pitt! What’s going on!

AMY
Show me!

CONFUSED, CHRISTINE WALKS TO THE DESK WHERE THE CHIT BOOK IS KEPT.

CHRISTINE
It’s not here!

AMY
You expect me to believe you?

CHRISTINE
Why should I lie?

AMY
Mo!!

APPREHENSIVELY, MO COMES OUT OF HER OFFICE.

MO
Yes?

AMY
Did you give Christine permission to go to town?

MO
I don’t recall.

INDIGNANTLY, MO RETURNS INTO HER OFFICE. CHRISTINE OPENS A DRAWER AND SEES THE CHIT BOOK. SHE QUICKLY SHUTS THE DRAWER.

CHRISTINE
She signed the chit!!

AMY
I don’t believe you!

CHRISTINE
I promise you Mrs Short. I am not a liar. Mrs Pitt clearly forgot.
As soon as I have found the chit book, I will show you.

AMY
You’d better!

AMY TURNS AND MARCHES TO HER APARTMENT AND ENTERS. CHRISTINE SIGHS WITH RELIEF. SHE OPENS THE DRAWER AND, MAKING SURE THAT SHE IS ALONE, COPY’S MO’S SIGNATURE. SHE THEN PUTS THE CHIT BOOK BACK INTO THE DRAWER AND SHUTS IT.

Episode Four: The Fire Drill (part four)

2008-07-22T04:58:00.000-07:00

24. INT. HOUSE KITCHEN DAY

SOPHIE PUTS SLICES OF BREAD IN THE TOASTER. CHARLOTTE AND ALEXANDRA COO THE EGG BABIES LYING IN A BOX. SOPHIE TURNS THE CONTROL KNOB ON THE TOASTER HIGHER. THE SCHOOL’S MAIN FIRE ALARM GOES OFF. THE GIRLS LOOK UP AND THEY BEGIN TO COUNT.

SOPHIE, ALEXANDRA AND CHARLOTTE
Two … Three … Four …

25. EXT. PLAYING FIELD DAY
THE HOCKEY MATCH COMES TO AN ABRUPT END WHEN THE SCHOOL SIREN IS HEARD. THE PLAYERS AND THE SPECTATORS BEGIN TO COUNT. AMY LOOKS AT HER WATCH.

AMY
… Six … Seven …

26. EXT. PARKING LOT DAY

PUPILS AND TEACHERS COUNT THE SECONDS AS THE SCHOOL SIREN SOUNDS. ADAM LOOKS AT HIS WATCH.

ADAM
… Nine … Ten …

THE SCHOOL SIREN THEN CONTINUES IN A HIGHER PITCH.

ADAM
… Eleven … That’s it! Come on you lot!! Go to your stations!!

TEACHERS AND PUPILS HURRY IN ALL DIRECTIONS TO THEIR APPOINTED EMERGENCY STATIONS.

27. EXT. PLAYING FIELD DAY

THE SCHOOL SIREN CONTINUES IN A HIGHER PITCH. THE HOCKEY PLAYERS AND SPECTATORS HURRY TO THEIR DESIGNATED EMERGENCY STATIONS. AMY LOOKS AROUND FOR GLEN, THEN ASSUMES THAT HE HAS LEFT FOR HIS STATION. AFTER ANOTHER GLANCE AT HER WATCH AND ANOTHER LOOK AROUND FOR GLEN, SHE SLOWLY WALKS TOWARDS SILVER BIRCH HOUSE.

28. INT. HOUSE KITCHEN DAY

THE SCHOOL SIREN CONTINUES IN A HIGHER PITCH. SOPHIE, CHARLOTTE AND ALEXANDRA LOOK HESITANTLY AT EACH OTHER.

CHARLOTTE
We’d better go to the lawn.

ROSIE ENTERS THE KITCHEN.

ROSIE
Come on you! We must leave the house immediately!

ROSIE USHERS THE GIRLS OUT OF THE KITCHEN.

ALEXANDRA TURNS AROUND.

ALEXANDRA
The babies!

ROSIE
There is no time for that! Out!!

AS THE GIRLS EXIT, MAGGIE ENTERS.

MAGGIE
Come on Rosie! We’ve got to go!!

ROSIE
Where’s Mo!!

MAGGIE
Come on!!

EXIT MAGGIE AND ROSIE. THE TOASTER BEGINS TO SMOKE. THE BLACKENED TOAST POPS UP AS FLAMES BEGIN TO ENGULF THE TOASTER. THE SMOKE AND FLAMES SET OF THE SMOKE ALARM WITH A HIGH PIERCING SOUND.

29. EXT. SILVER BIRCH LAWN DAY

THE SCHOOL SIREN CONTINUES IN A HIGHER PITCH. MAGGIE, ROSIE, CHARLOTTE, ALEXANDRA, SOPHIE AND SEVERAL GIRLS STAND WAITING ON THE LAWN. MORE GIRLS ARRIVE.

ROSIE
Who is supposed to take the names?

MAGGIE
I don’t know.

MAGGIE TURNS TO SOPHIE.

MAGGIE
Who checks the names?

SOPHIE TURNS TO ALEXANDRA.

SOPHIE
Chrissie is head of house, isn’t she?

ALEXANDRA
She is.

SOPHIE TURNS TO MAGGIE.

SOPHIE
Christine.

30. INT. SWIMMING POOL SHOWERS DAY

GLEN AND CHRISTINE ARE HAVING SEX UNDER A HOT SHOWER. STEAM RISES. THE SHOWER DROWNS OUT THE SOUND OF THE SCHOOL SIREN.

31. INT. RECEPTION DAY

CLARE LISTENS TO THE SCHOOL SIREN IN CONFUSION. SHE OPENS THE DOOR AND SEES LATECOMERS RUN TOWARDS THEIR STATION.

CLARE
It’s for real!!!

CLARE HURRIES TOWARDS THE TELEPHONE AND DIALS.

CLARE
The fire brigade, please!

32. EXT. SILVER BIRCH LAWN DAY

THE SCHOOL SIREN CONTINUES. MORE GIRLS HAVE ARRIVED, JOINING MAGGIE, ROSIE, ALEXANDRA, SOPHIE AND CHARLOTTE. THERE IS SOME CONFUSION AMONGST THE GIRLS.

ROSIE
Where’s Mo!!

MAGGIE
She’s gone shopping. She’s supposed to check the house!

ROSIE
This is madness!

MAGGIE
Amy’s still not here either!

ROSIE
Nobody’s checking anything!

MAGGIE
Come on. We’d better do it!

ROSIE
Are you crazy! We’re supposed to stay here! We have no authority!

MAGGIE
And let a child burn to her death?

33. INT. HOUSE MAIN AREA DAY

THE SCHOOL SIREN CONTINUES. MAGGIE AND ROSIE ENTER THE MAIN AREA. THE SMOKE ALARM IS PIERCING. ROSIE AND MAGGIE COVER THEIR EARS. THEY THEN SEE SMOKE COMING FROM BENEATH THE KITCHEN DOOR. ROSIE TENTATIVELY OPENS THE KITCHEN DOOR. SMOKE BILLOWS TOWARDS HER. FLAMES REACH THE CEILING. SHOCKED, ROSIE QUICKLY SHUTS THE DOOR. THE SMOKE ALARM SUDDENLY STOPS.

ROSIE
The kitchen’s on fire!!

MAGGIE
Phone reception! I’ll check upstairs! You do downstairs!

ROSIE RUNS TOWARDS MO’S OFFICE. MAGGIE RUNS UPSTAIRS.

34. INT. HOUSE DORMITORIES CORRIDOR DAY

THE SCHOOL SIREN CONTINUES. MAGGIE OPENS THE DORMITORY DOORS AND QUICKLY CHECKS THAT THEY ARE EMPTY. SHE THEN RUNS TO THE OTHER CORRIDOR.

35. INT. HOUSE SINGLE ROOMS CORRIDOR DAY

THE SCHOOL SIREN CONTINUES. MAGGIE QUICKLY OPENS THE SINGLE ROOMS DOORS CHECKING THAT THEY ARE EMPTY. SHE OPENS ANTOINETTE’S DOOR AND SHE SEES A MOVEMENT ON THE BED. MAGGIE ENTERS.

36. INT. HOUSE ANTOINETTE’S ROOM DAY

THE SCHOOL SIREN CONTINUES. MAGGIE WALKS TO THE BED. A SMALL PIPE AND A SACHET OF CRACK COCAINE LIE ON THE DESK. MAGGIE LOOKS AT THE ITEMS ON THE DESK IN HORROR. SHE SHAKES ANTOINETTE, WHO IS ASLEEP ON THE BED.

MAGGIE
Antoinette! Ant!! Wake up! The kitchen is on fire!!

ANTOINETTE DOESN’T MOVE. MAGGIE FEELS HEAT COMING FROM THE FLOOR AND SHE CHECKS THE FLOOR WITH HER HAND. SHE QUICKLY RETRACTS HER HAND, AS THE FLOOR IS VERY HOT.

MAGGIE
Oh no!! No!!!

37. EXT. SILVER BIRCH LAWN DAY

THE SCHOOL SIREN CONTINUES. AMY ARRIVES AND FINDS CONFUSION AMONGST ALEXANDRA, SOPHIE, CHARLOTTE AND THE OTHER GIRLS.

AMY
What is going on! Where is Mrs Pitt! Where is Christine!

ALEXANDRA
They haven’t arrived Mrs Short.

SOPHIE
What do we do now Mrs Short?

AMY SURVEYS THE SCENE.

AMY
Where are Rosie and Maggie!

CHARLOTTE
They went back inside!

38. EXT. RECEPTION DAY

THE SCHOOL SIREN CONTINUES. CLARE POINTS THE WAY TO SILVER BIRCH HOUSE. THE FIREMAN GETS INTO HIS ENGINE AND, WITH SIRENS BLARING DEPARTS, FOLLOWED BY ANOTHER FIRE ENGINE.

39. INT. HOUSE MAIN AREA DAY

THE SCHOOL SIREN CONTINUES. AMY ENTERS AND TO HER HORROR SEES SMOKE BILLOWING FROM UNDERNEATH THE KITCHEN DOOR. THEN, TO HER CONSTERNATION, SHE SEES ROSIE AND MAGGIE CARRY A DRUGGED ANTOINETTE DOWN THE STAIRCASE. SHOCKED, SHE HEARS GLASS BREAKING IN THE KITCHEN.

40. EXT. SILVER BIRCH LAWN DAY

THE SCHOOL SIREN DIES DOWN AND STOPS. ALEXANDRA, SOPHIE, CHARLOTTE AND THE OTHER GIRLS WATCH EACH OTHER IN CONFUSION.

CHARLOTTE
Shall we go into the house?

ALEXANDRA
We have to wait for the all clear!

SOPHIE
Who cares! I’m going in!

SOPHIE ENTERS THE HOUSE. CHARLOTTE AND ALEXANDRA HESITANTLY FOLLOW. THE OTHER GIRLS, THINKING THE ALL CLEAR HAS BEEN GIVEN, FOLLOW.

41. INT. HOUSE MAIN AREA DAY

SOPHIE, ALEXANDRA AND CHARLOTTE, FOLLOWED BY THE OTHER GIRLS ENTER THE MAIN AREA, WHICH IS FILLED WITH SMOKE. ANTOINETTE LIES UNCONSCIOUS ON THE FLOOR, ATTENDED TO BY AMY AND ROSIE. MAGGIE WALKS OUT OF MO’S OFFICE.

MAGGIE
The ambulance is on its way!

HORRIFIED THE GIRLS LOOK AT ANTOINETTE.

CHARLOTTE
What’s wrong with Ant, Mrs Short!

SOPHIE
Wow!! Look at all that smoke!

ALEXANDRA
I want to go home …

AMY
Get out of the house!! All of you!! Now!!

AMY SENDS THE GIRLS OUT THROUGH THE MAIN ENTRANCE.

42. EXT. SILVER BIRCH HOUSE DAY

KITCHEN GLASS IS BROKEN. TWO FIREMEN AIM THEIR JET STREAM THROUGH THE BROKEN KITCHEN WINDOW. AMY, MAGGIE AND ROSIE CARRY ANTOINETTE OUT OF SILVER BIRCH HOUSE. GIRLS RUN AROUND SCREAMIMG HYSTERICALLY. CHARLOTTE, SOPHIE AND ALEXANDRA, SCARED, HUDDLE TOGETHER. AN AMBULANCE ARRIVES WITH SIREN ON. AMID THE CHAOS OF SCREAMING GIRLS, AMBULANCE SIREN AND FIREMEN JET STREAMS, MO, DRIVING HER CAR, RETURNS.

Episode Four: The Fire Drill (part three)

2008-07-10T06:52:00.000-07:00

16. EXT. PLAYING FIELD SAY

CHRISTINE WALKS TOWARDS GLEN WHO IS WATCHING THE HOCKEY MATCH.

CHRISTINE
Who’s winning?

GLEN
They are.

CHRISTINE INCHES A BIT CLOSER TO GLEN.

GLEN
Don’t give our game away.

CHRISTINE
Don’t worry. I wont.

SHE GETS A LITTLE CLOSER AND SMELLS HIS BO. SHE HASTILY BACKS OFF.

CHRISTINE
You stink!

GLEN
I know. They’re playing terribly!

CHRISTINE
No, you! You smell!

GLEN
Thank you!

CHRISTINE
When did you last have a bath?

GLEN
A bath! I don’t know. Last year?

CHRISTINE
You are joking right?

GLEN
No-o.

CHRISTINE
Meet me in the swimming pool for a jolly good shower.

FLABBERGASTED GLEN WATCHES CHRISTINE WALK AWAY.

17. INT. RECEPTION DAY

CLARE AND MATT ARE PUTTING STAMPS ON ENVELOPES.

MATT
I totally forgot to tell you!

CLARE
Oh?

MATT
Yeah. I had the most bizarre conversation the other day. Mrs Pitt accused me of blackmail!

CLARE
Mo? What do you mean?

MATT
Someone put an envelope into my pocket and when she saw me take it out, she went berserk!

CLARE
Blackmail?

MATT
Don’t ask.

CLARE
What has she done? For someone to blackmail her?

MATT
I tell you what! She nearly told me what she had done and then she quickly shut up!

CLARE
Most peculiar.

MATT
Tell me about it.

CLARE
What exactly did she say?

MATT
Something like … You know that it was me who … And then she clamped up. As if she knew she was letting the cat out of the bag in front of the wrong person.

CLARE
I wonder what secret she has.

MATT
It’s none of my business, but I don’t like being accused.

CLARE
Of course not.

THEY CONTINUE IN SILENCE FOR A MOMENT.

MATT
It’s very quiet.

CLARE
I had to do something.

MATT
That’s it! The phone isn’t ringing!

CLARE
I’ve put the answering machine on.

MATT
Why?

CLARE
Whining parents. I can’t spend my time pacifying them with all this to do.

MATT LOOKS AT HIS WATCH, SNEEZES AND BLOWS HIS NOSE WITH A LOUD HOOTING SOUND.

MATT
I have to go to my post. I’ll be back afterwards.

CLARE
Go where?

MATT
To the exercise.

EXIT MATT. CLARE SHRUGS HER SHOULDERS AND CONTINUES PUTTING STAMPS ON ENVELOPES.

18. INT. HOUSE DORMITORY DAY

CHARLOTTE, ALEXANDRA AND SOPHIE HAVE PAINTED FACES ON THE EGGS AND DRESSED THEM UP. THE FOUR EGG BABIES LIE SIDE BY SIDE IN A BOX.

ALEXANDRA
Are they not sweet?

CHARLOTTE
My Jonny and your Becks are getting on like a house on fire.

SOPHIE
I’m hungry.

CHARLOTTE
He is sound asleep.

ALEXANDRA
Oh look, Posh wants her mummy.

SOPHIE
I’m going to make some toast.

CHARLOTTE
I’m coming with you.

SOPHIE AND CHARLOTTE WALK TO THE DOOR.

ALEXANDRA
Wait for me!

SOPHIE OPENS THE DOOR.

ALEXANDRA
Hang on! One of us needs to baby-sit!

SOPHIE
Yeah well, not me, I’m starving.

CHARLOTTE
We’d better take them then.

SOPHIE
Oh for goodness!! Who cares!

ALEXANDRA
I do!

ALEXANDRA PICKS UP THE BOX.

ALEXANDRA
There, there. You are coming with mummy.

SOPHIE
God, you are such a baby!

ALEXANDRA
And you are an irresponsible cow.

19. EXT. PLAYING FIELD DAY

LUCY, ADAM AND TEN REMAINING STUDENTS WALK TOWARDS THE PLAYING FIELD WHERE THE HOCKEY MATCH IS IN FULL PLAY. GLEN WALKS TOWARDS THEM.

GLEN
Hello there.

ADAM
Where are you going?

GLEN
Oh, you know.

ADAM LOOKS AT HIS WATCH AS GLEN WALKS ON.

ADAM
Ah, understood.

LUCY
Does he ever bathe? His BO is dreadful.

ADAM
Oh no. No, no, no. That’s not it.

LUCY
It isn’t?

ADAM
I have to have a word with him again.

LUCY
What about? His BO?

ADAM
About his change of clothing. He showers every day. However, he dresses in the same clothes afterwards. That’s the pong, what?

LUCY
Oh I see!

IN THE NEAR DISTANCE A SECURITY GUARD PASSES. ADAM POINTS AT HIM.

ADAM
Is that he?

LUCY FOLLOWS HIS OUTSTRETCHED ARM.

LUCY
No. You know what? I think I imagined it.

ADAM
Did you?

LUCY
Yes. After all, how could a member of that family pas through the security checks to work here. Yes, yes I’m sure that it was just paranoia … Definitely.

ADAM
Are you absolutely sure?

LUCY
Yes. Silly me. Thank you.

LUCY LOOKS AT HER WATCH.

LUCY
Well, it’s time to go to my post. Class dismissed!

THE STUDENTS GO THEIR OWN WAY. LUCY GIVES ADAM A LITTLE WAVE AND WALKS ON. ADAM, DEEPLY DISAPPOINTED, LIGHTS HIS PIPE.

ADAM
Damn!

20. EXT. SPORT CENTRE DAY

GLEN LOOKS AT A PIECE OF PAPER, WITH A DRAWN ARROW AND THE WORDS ‘FOLLOW ME’, ON IT. HE TRIES THE DOOR. TO HIS SURPRISE, IT IS UNLOCKED. HE GOES INSIDE.

21. INT. SPORT CENTRE HALL DAY

AN ARROW POINTS DOWN AT THE STAIRCASE. GLEN GOES DOWN THE STAIRS.

22. INT. SWIMMING POOL SHOWERS DAY

AN ARROW POINTS AT A DOOR. GLEN CAREFULLY OPENS THE DOOR.

23. INT. SWIMMING POOL DAY

AN ARROW POINTS TOWARDS THE EDGE OF THE SWIMMING POOL. GLEN LOOKS AROUND SUSPICIOUSLY. HE SEES NO ONE AND HE WALKS TOWARDS THE POOL’S EDGE. HE BENDS DOWN AND LOOKS INTO THE POOL. A NAKED CHRISTINE JUMPS FORWARDS AND PUSHES GLEN INTO THE WATER. SHE JUMPS IN AFTER HIM. GLEN SURFACES. CHRISTINE PUSHES HIS FACE UNDER THE WATER. GLEN RESURFACES. HE IS GETTING ANGRY.

GLEN
Will you stop doing that!!!!

CHRISTINE
Don’t be such a grump! This is fun!

GLEN
Fun! What about my clothes! They’re ruined!

CHRISTINE
That’s all taken care of!

CHRISTINE BEGINS TO UNDRESS GLEN. HIS JACKET BOBS UP IN THE WATER.

CHRISTINE
Take your clothes off!

CHRISTINE KISSES GLEN AND CARRIES ON UNDRESSING HIM. GLEN’S MOOD THAWS. HE KISSES HER BACK.

GLEN
How did you manage to unlock the door?

CHRISTINE
Ah, well Sir, that’s my little secret.

CHRISTINE PULLS HIS TROUSERS DOWN. THE TROUSERS FLOAT, WITH GLEN’S JACKET, SHIRT AND TIE, ALONG THE WATER.

GLEN
No seriously. How did you do it? Do you have a master key?

GLEN TAKES HIS SOCKS OFF. THE SOCKS FOLLOW THE DIRECTION OF HIS JACKET, TROUSERS, SHIRT AND TIE.

CHRISTINE
Nope!

GLEN TAKES HIS UNDERPANTS OFF. THE UNDERPANTS FLOAT AWAY WITH THE OTHER CLOTHES.

GLEN
Don’t tell me! You know how to pick a lock!!

CHRISTINE
Yep!!

GLEN
You little minx!

THEY EMBRACE AND PASSIONATELY KISS.

Episode Four: The Fire Drill (part two)

2008-06-22T06:07:00.000-07:00

6. INT. HOUSE MAIN AREA DAY

CHARLOTTE, SOPHIE AND ALEXANDRA COME RUNNING INTO THE HOUSE AS MO EXITS HER OFFICE.

CHARLOTTE
Mrs Pitt! Mrs Pitt!

SOPHIE
I have a son!

CHARLOTTE
I have a daughter!

ALEXANDRA
Look! Twins!

THE GIRLS PROUDLY PRESENT THEIR EGGS. MAGGIE, PULLING A VACUUM CLEANER, COMES OVER TO HAVE A LOOK.

MO
Well done!

MAGGIE
What’s this?

ALEXANDRA
They are my babies. I think I’ll name them Posh and Becks.

MO
They have to take care of their eggs as if they were their own.

SOPHIE
We have to take them everywhere.

CHARLOTTE
And if we can’t, we have to find a baby sitter.

MAGGIE
I hope that they are boiled eggs.

ALEXANDRA
Maggie!! You don’t boil your children!

CHARLOTTE
Can I have a little box, Mrs Pitt?

SOPHIE
What for?

ALEXANDRA
And some material to dress them in?

MO
I shall see what I can find.

ALEXANDRA
Can I have some wool? How do you knit booties?

SOPHIE
Don’t be so stupid! They don’t have legs!

THE GIRLS BEGIN TO WALK UPSTAIRS.

ALEXANDRA
Of course they have legs. You just can’t see them.

SOPHIE
You are taking this way too serious.

SOPHIE JUGGLES WITH HER EGGS.

ALEXANDRA
This is serious! Be careful! You know what will happen when you break one!

SOPHIE
Who cares!

MO SMILES AT MAGGIE.

MO
Don’t you think this is a good idea?

MAGGIE
Why not a computerised doll? That’s more realistic.

MO
Before you can say Bob’s your uncle they would have wrecked those and anyway this is cheaper.

MO LOOKS AT HER WATCH.

MO
As everything is quiet, I shall do some shopping. If anybody asks, I am visiting the sock lady.

MAGGIE
Who?

MO
Sandy. Sock Sandy. She sorts the socks when they return from the laundry. A thankless task.

MAGGIE
As thankless as ours.

MO LOOKS INDIFFERENT AND WALKS TO THE DOOR.

MO
I will see you later.

EXIT MO. MAGGIE PULLS HER VACUUM CLEANER TO A ROOM, PLUGS IT IN, KNOCKS ON THE DOOR, OPENS IT AND PUTS A DOOR STOPPER UNDER THE DOOR.

7. INT. HOUSE DOUBLE BEDROOM DAY

MAGGIE ENTERS AND BEGINS TO TIDY THE ROOM WITH TWO SINGLE BEDS. SHE SPOTS ITEMS OF CLOTHING LYING IN A HEAP BEHIND A TUCK BOX. SHE MOVES THE TUCK BOX. A SLEEVE OF A SHIRT, STUCK ON THE TUCK BOX LOCK, OPENS THE LID. MAGGIE’S EYES WIDEN IN SHOCK WHEN SHE SEES WHAT’S IN THE BOX.

8. EXT. SILVER BIRCH HOUSE DAY

MO DRIVES AWAY.

9. EXT. PLAYING FIELD DAY

THE REF BLOWS THE WHISTLE AND THE HOCKEY MATCH BEGINS. AMY STANDS WELL AWAY FROM GLEN. OTHER SPECTATORS STANDING CLOSE TO GLEN WRINKLE THEIR NOSES AND HASTILY STEP AWAY FROM HIM. GLEN, UNPERTURBED, OCCASIONALLY SWIGS FROM HIS FLASK.

10. EXT. RECEPTION DAY

MATT, SUFFERING A COLD, WALKS TOWARDS RECEPTION. HE SNEEZES AND BLOWS HIS NOSE WITH A LOUD HOOT.

11. EXT. PARKING LOT DAY

LUCY, MAP IN HAND, STEERS A GROUP OF FIFTEEN STUDENTS TOWARDS THE OLD HOUSE. ADAM FOLLOWS, PIPE CLAMPED BETWEEN HIS TEETH.

12. INT. RECEPTION DAY

MATT ENTERS AS CLARE STUDIES THE FRANKING MACHINE. HE PUTS HIS ARMS AROUND HER WAIST.

MATT
Ah, this feels good.

CLARE SHRUGS HIM OFF.

CLARE
Not now.

MATT SNEEZES AND BLOWS HIS NOSE WITH A LOUD HOOT.

CLARE
And you can stay well away! I don’t want your cold!

MATT
I can’t help it!

CLARE
Mmmm … Can you have a look at this?

MATT
What’s wrong with it?

CLARE
It’s not working and I still have sixteen hundred letters to frank.

MATT INSPECTS THE FRANKING MACHINE.

CLARE
They must go today. They are the Winter Ball invitations.

MATT
It looks well and truly bust to me. Look!

MATT SHOWS HER A BURNED WIRE.

MATT
This one’s dead. You’ll need a new one.

CLARE
How long will that take!

MATT
Days … Weeks …

CLARE
No! I can’t wait that long!

MATT
Sorry.

13. EXT. THE OLD HOUSE DAY

LUCY READS FROM A PAMPHLET AS ADAM, PUFFING ON HIS PIPE, AND FIFTEEN STUDENTS LISTEN.

LUCY
The first house was built in seventeen eighty, but it was too close to the river. The house was dismantled, brick by brick and rebuild here in eighteen twenty one.

ADAM
Interesting, what?

THE STUDENTS GRUMBLE, THEY FIND THE LESSON BORING.

LUCY
The family lived here from eighteen twenty five until nineteen twenty.

ADAM
How many servants did they have?

LUCY LEAFS THROUGH THE PAMPHLET.

LUCY
It says here that they had one butler, one housekeeper, two scullery maids and several kitchen staff. They lived in. Their rooms were on the top floor.

ADAM LOOKS AT THE PAMPHLET. THEIR HEADS TOUCH. THE STUDENTS YAWN. A FEW MAKE THEIR ESCAPE. LUCY LOOKS UP. A SECURITY GUARD WALKS PAST THEM IN THE NEAR DISTANCE.

LUCY
Good God!!!

ADAM
I know! Seven gardeners! Poor Matt does it on his own!

LUCY
Sorry?

ADAM
They were paid a pittance. Look at this!

ADAM LOOKS UP AND SEES LUCY STARING IN THE DISTANCE. HE FOLLOWS HER GAZE.

ADAM
Are you all right?

LUCY
I … I …

ADAM
What’s the matter?

ADAM OPENS THE DOOR TO THE OLD HOUSE AND SENDS THE REMAINING STUDENTS IN.

ADAM
In you go.

ADAM CLOSES THE DOOR BEHIND THEM.

ADAM
What’s wrong? You’re as white as a sheet.

LUCY STARES INTO THE DISTANCE.

ADAM
Lucy?

LUCY
That security guard …

ADAM
What guard?

LUCY
He walked past a moment ago. I swear it was my husband’s cousin.

ADAM THOUGHTFULLY SUCKS ON HIS PIPE.

ADAM
As long as I am around, you are safe, I can assure you.

ADAM TAKES LUCY’S ARM AND ESCORTS HER ONTO THE OLD HOUSE.

LUCY
How can he be here!

14. INT. HOUSE KITCHEN DAY

MAGGIE LEANS AGAINST THE SINK AS ROSIE STOPS CLEANING THE INSIDE OF THE FRIDGE. THE CONTENTS OF THE FRIDGE ARE ON THE FLOOR.

ROSIE
Fifteen!!

MAGGIE
Fifteen.

ROSIE
You’ll have to tell Mo!

MAGGIE
I hate dobbing them in.

ROSIE
They’re sixteen!

MAGGIE
You know what they’re like when you grass on them.

ROSIE
You have a sixteen-year-old at home!

MAGGIE
The whole house puts you in Coventry.

ROSIE
How would you feel if you found THAT in his room!

MAGGIE
Your life is made a misery for at least half a term.

ROSIE
I would kill my son if I found only one in his room!!

MAGGIE
I can’t report them. No, I can’t. They are just too nice.

ROSIE
They are spoilt brats who get away with everything. If you don’t, I will!

15. INT. UNDER THE DOME DAY

ADAM AND LUCY FOLLOW THE REMAINING STUDENTS. ADAM WAVES HIS PIPE EXCITEDLY AS HE SPEAKS. HE RELISHES HIS ROLE AS LUCY’S SAVIOUR. LUCY IS BEWILDERED BY HIS BEHAVIOUR.

ADAM
Firstly, you should dye your hair. Secondly, you must stay at my place. Thirdly, no make-up …

LUCY
What are you saying?

ADAM
You must be as plain as can be. Fourthly, we will arrange sick leave. You should stay put and contact no one.

LUCY
Adam, stop this!

ADAM
I will hand in my notice. We will marry quickly and disappear in the night. What?

LUCY
You are going way overboard!

ADAM
Point that security guard out to me! We’ll dispose of him first!

HE EMBRACES LUCY, WHO IS MORE BEWILDERED THAN EVER, AND TAKES
HER FACE BETWEEN HIS HANDS. HE PLANTS A SMACKER FIRMLY ON HER LIPS.

ADAM
And we shall live happily ever after.

Episode Four: The Fire Drill (part one)

2008-06-08T08:30:00.000-07:00

1. INT. HOUSE KITCHEN DAY

MAGGIE AND ROSIE ARE WASHING AND DRYING THE DISHES AS AMY ENTERS.

AMY
Have you seen Mo?

ROSIE
She went upstairs. What’s happening Amy? Why are the kids packing their stuff?

AMY
You’ve noticed have you?

MAGGIE
Do they have an extra exiat?

AMY
No, no. A small crisis. That’s all. Tell Mo that I urgently need to see her, will you?

EXIT AMY. MAGGIE AND ROSIE GIVE EACH OTHER A PUZZLED LOOK.

ROSIE
This place is falling apart!

2. INT. RECEPTION DAY

CLARE PUTS POST THROUGH THE FRANKING MACHINE. THE TELEPHONE RINGS AND CLARE STOPS HER WORK WITH THE POST AND PICKS UP THE RECEIVER.

CLARE
Good morning, Grindhirst School, how may I help you? … Yes Madam … I shall put you through … Pardon? … No Madam, I cannot answer that question … That’s quite alright, thank you …

CLARE PRESSES A BUTTON AND PUTS THE RECEIVER BACK ON ITS CRADLE. SHE TURNS AND BUMPS INTO ADAM WHO SUCKS HAPPILY ON HIS PIPE.

ADAM
Ah, Frump!

CLARE
Mr Parson! You gave me a fright!

ADAM
May I have my post and keys?

CLARE
Please?

ADAM
Pardon?

CLARE
We like to hear the word please.

CLARE WALKS BACK TO THE FRANKING MACHINE AND RESUMES HER WORK.

ADAM
May I have my post and keys, please?

CLARE
That’s much better. There is nothing wrong with good manners. Teachers should set an example.

ADAM
Right. Quite right of course … May I have them?

CLARE TURNS AND GIVES HIM A FOUL LOOK.

ADAM
Please?

CLARE PUTS ONE MORE LETTER THROUGH THE FRANKING MACHINE AND FETCHES ADAM’S KEYS AND POST. THE FRANKING MACHINE MAKES A CLANGING SOUND, BURRS AND STOPS.

CLARE
Now what?

ADAM
Something wrong, my dear?

CLARE WALKS BACK TO THE FRANKING MACHINE, HOLDING ADAM’S KEYS AND POST. SHE INSPECTS THE MACHINE.

CLARE
Do you know anything about this machine?

ADAM
Is it a mathematical problem?

CLARE
No, of course not!

ADAM
In that case, no, I can’t help you. May I have my post and keys?

CLARE
Please?

ADAM
Oh for god’s sake Frump! Just give them to me will you?

ADAM IMPATIENTLY SNATCHES THE KEYES AND POST FROM CLARE’S HAND AND WALKS AWAY.

CLARE
If this is your example, I’m not at all surprised that parents are removing their children from the school!

SURPRISED, ADAM TURNS.

ADAM
What did you say?

CLARE
You heard!

ADAM
Is that true?

CLARE
I would advise you to talk to Mrs Short.

ADAM
I certainly will!

EXIT ADAM.

CLARE
Well, thank you Miss Frump!

THE TELEPHONE RINGS AND CLARE PICKS IT UP.

CLARE
Good morning Grindhirst Sch …

A VERBAL BARRAGE FILLS CLARE’S EAR AND, SHOCKED, SHE HOLDS THE RECEIVER AWAY FROM HER EAR.

3. INT. HOUSE MAIN AREA DAY

CHRISTINE AND ANTOINETTE ARE WATCHING ANTOINETTE’S UNIVERSITY INTERVIEW REHEARSAL TAPE ON THE TELEVISION. ROSIE WALKS TOWARDS THEM.

ROSIE
What’s that?

CHRISTINE
Ant’s interview.

ROSIE
Oh … For a job?

ANTOINETTE
University.

ROSIE SITS DOWN. THE TELEVISION SCREEN SHOWS ANTOINETTE DISPLAYING HER ARTWORK.

ROSIE
Is this what you want to do?

ANTOINETTE
No. It’s a stupid interview. God I interview bad!

ON THE TELEVISION SCREEN, ANTOINETTE STUTTERS AS SHE TRIES TO EXPLAIN HER WORK.

CHRISTINE
Good grief Ant! The way you sit there! Anyone would think that you are defending the indefensible!

ANTOINETTE
So? I don’t care! I don’t want to go to uni anyway!

ROSIE
You want to take a gap year?

ANTOINETTE
For the rest of my life.

CHRISTINE
Don’t be a silly head. You’ve got to have a career! Everyone does!

ANTOINETTE
Why? My parents can keep me. They have plenty of money.

ROSIE
You can’t live off your parents for the rest of your life!

ANTOINETTE
They’re very old and will soon die. Their money will be mine! What’s the point in study? When that’s coming my way! No, it will be party time for me, not study.

MO WALKS TOWARDS THEM.

MO
Is your room tidy Antoinette?

ANTOINETTE
I’ll do it in a minute.

MO
You will do it now.

MO SWITCHES THE TELEVISION OFF AND WALKS AWAY.

ANTOINETTE
Mrs Pitt?

MO TURNS.

ANTOINETTE
How is Mr Baker?

MO
Very well, thank you! Now, please tidy your room and no more talking about that subject, please!

MO WALKS AWAY.

CHRISTINE
What was that about?

ROSIE
What’s the gos?

ANTOINETTE
Oh, nothing really. A little something between her and me. That’s all.

ROSIE
Is she having an affair with Matt!

ANTOINETTE
Wow!! That would be a story to spread around, wouldn’t it?

CHRISTINE
That would be vile!

ANTOINETTE RISES.

ANTOINETTE
It’s worth thinking about. I’d better be a good girl and tidy my room.

ANTOINETTE WALKS AWAY.

ROSIE
She wouldn’t, would she?

4. INT. COMMON ROOM DAY

AMY IS HAVING BREAKFAST WITH LUCY.

LUCY
They wouldn’t, would they?

AMY
They are! The Headmaster is furious with me! He says it’s my entire fault!

LUCY
You still can’t remember whom you told about the ten thousand?

AMY
If only.

ADAM JOINS THEM, PIPE FIRMLY BETWEEN HIS TEETH.

ADAM
Ah, here you are. What’s this I hear?

AMY
Oh god, go away you horrid man.

LUCY
Adam’s alright Amy.

AMY IS SURPRISED BY LUCY’S ANSWER AND UNDERSTANDS AT ONCE THAT SOMETHING HAS HAPPENED BETWEEN THEM.

ADAM
Is it true?

GLEN JOINS THEM. HE SMELLS BADLY AND THE OTHERS WRINKLE THEIR NOSES AND SHUFFLE AWAY FROM HIM AS HE SITS DOWN.

GLEN
Is what true?

LUCY
Amy is in trouble.

ADAM
I’d gathered that.

ADAM EXHALES A LARGE AMOUNT OF SMOKE. IT WHIRLS AROUND GLEN WHO IMPATIENTLY WAVES THE SMOKE AWAY.

GLEN
Do you have to smoke? It’s a filthy habit!

LUCY TAKES ADAM’S PIPE FROM HIM.

ADAM
Aa, ho!!!

LUCY POINTS AT THE NO SMOKING SIGN. ADAM, PRETENDING TO BE RELUCTANT, LETS HER EMPTY HIS PIPE. LUCY GIVES IT BACK TO HIM. THEY GIVE EACH OTHER A SMILE. ADAM WINKS AT LUCY. AMY WATCHES IN AMAZEMENT.

ADAM
Well? What’s happened?

AMY
You’ll only gloat when I tell you.

ADAM
My dear girl. You have all my sympathy.

AMY
Yeah right!

GLEN
What is going on!

LUCY
The school fees are being increased by ten per cent.

ADAM
And?

GLEN
What’s new!

AMY
Starting in January.

ADAM
January?

LUCY
January.

GLEN
That’s madness! Why January!

AMY
To bring it into line with the Vanderbeeks’ ten thousand pounds.

LUCY
The other parents are angry and are taking their children out of the school.

AMY
And I get the blame! If only I knew who blabbed.

ADAM
Who was the brain behind this madcap reaction?

AMY LOOKS AT HER WATCH AND JUMPS UP.

AMY
Good grief! I have to go! Hockey.

GLEN RISES.

GLEN
My team against yours. We’ll win!

THEY WALK AWAY. AMY STAYS AT ARMS LENGTH FROM GLEN.

AMY
Not on your Nellie. We are much better prepared.

GLEN
That’s what you think. Just wait!

ADAM LOOKS WORRIED AT LUCY.

ADAM
Are you all right?

LUCY
I’m fine, thank you Adam.

ADAM
The offer stands. We could marry under your assumed identity.

LUCY
I know.

THEY SMILE AT EACH OTHER. LUCY LOOKS AT HER WATCH AND RISES.

LUCY
I have to go. A history lesson about the school.

ADAM
May I join you?

LUCY
What about your class?

ADAM
I have a couple of free periods and I’d much prefer your company to marking.

ADAM RISES AND LIGHTS HIS PIPE.

ADAM
And a history lesson is always useful.

THEY WALK AWAY.

LUCY
It will be a pleasure to teach you sir.

ADAM
The pleasure is all mine … I’m all yours.

5. INT. HOUSE OFFICE DAY

MO IS ON THE TELEPHONE.

MO
I don’t know Lisa … No, it’s definitely not Matt … No nothing … Hopefully this will die a death … Yes … Yes … Oooooooh, I nearly forgot! You remember that girl? … No, not that one. The one whose parents pay the extra … Yes, that one. Apparently the other parents are rioting … Yes … Oh yes an extra ten per cent … They are taking their children out of the school. Well, can you blame them?

MO SEES CHARLOTTE, SOPHIE AND ALEXANDRA APPROACH SILVER BIRCH HOUSE.

MO
I’ll have to go Lisa, It’s that time of year again … No, no, no, it’s the little ones. Nothing but trouble I’m telling you. Speak later …
Oooh I know … Yes.

MO HANGS UP AND LEAVES THE OFFICE.

Apologies And An Announcement

2008-06-03T06:56:00.000-07:00

I am sorry that I have not been here for such a long time and have not posted the first segment of episode four, The Fire Drill.

This is because of the sudden death of Paul Hart who played Alan the Publican in Middle Ditch. Most of you have listened to this radio serial, set in a small village in rural Dorset.

Paul was a talented musician, artist, long distant runner, teacher, fantastic story teller and since last year August, also an actor.

He played Alan with gusto and enjoyed every minute of it. He had a wonderful (so rare now) Dorset voice. His last recording with us was in February when we recorded several episodes. We will hear his voice for the last time in episode fifteen.

That episode will be online soon and will be dedicated to Paul.

Meanwhile some episodes had to be rewritten as Alan is no longer with us, and thus this blog was neglected.

The Middle Ditch cast will never forget him.

May he rest in peace.

Synopsis Of Episode Four 'The Fire Drill'

2008-05-15T07:42:00.000-07:00

This episode features a broken franking machine, empty bottles and egg babies.

Alexandra, Sophie and Charlotte are given eggs as pretend babies.

Some parents, disgusted by the ten percent school fee increase, take their children out of the school.

The franking machine in reception breaks down and the Winter Ball invitations have to be manually stamped by Clare and Matt.
Clare switches the answering machine on, as whining parents are a distraction.

Maggie discovers fifteen empty wine and spirit bottles in the room of two sixteen-year-old girls.

Adam takes a history tour around the school with Lucy and her students. Lucy thinks that she recognizes a security guard and suspects that she has been found by the family she escaped from. Adam relishes being Lucy's saviour until she suspects that she is paranoid.

Making toast, Sophie turns the toaster up and, just as the fire drill commences and everybody is evacuated from Silver Birch House, inadvertently sets the kitchen on fire.

Christine and Glen are having sex in the swimming pool shower and do not hear the school fire siren.

Mo and Amy are also absent and Maggie and Rosie, making sure the whole house is evacuated, find Antoinette drugged on crack cocaine.

Clare is unsure about the school fire siren, and thinking it must be for real, calls the fire brigade.

Amy blames Mo for the ruined kitchen who in turn blames the cleaners.

The kitchen fire destroys the egg babies and Alexandra has to make a decision.

Maggie asks Mo to 'find' the fifteen empty wine and spirit bottles found.

Episode Three: A Night On The Moors (part six)

2008-05-03T07:44:00.000-07:00

41. INT. HOUSE APARTMENT LOUNGE NIGHT

AMY STANDS IN FRONT OF THE MIRROR CHECKING HER FACE FOR BLEMISHES. THERE IS A KNOCK AT THE DOOR.

AMY
Come on in! It’s open!

MATT, WITH A BANDAGED HEAD, ENTERS.

AMY
Oh Matt!! What happened to your head!

MATT
A collision with a trolley.

AMY OPENS HER MOUTH TO ASK MORE QUESTIONS.

MATT
Don’t ask.

AMY
What can I do for you?

MATT
Mr Fisher sent me to collect the theatrical stuff.

AMY
Ah, they’ve finished filming?

MATT
Apparently so. He needs everything for the next stage play.

AMY
Anything goes.

MATT
Eh?

AMY
Anything goes.

MATT LOOKS BEWILDERED AT AMY.

AMY
It’s the title of the play.

MATT
Oh! Well then. What has been used for filming?

AMY
That nest of tables over there … The Persian rug, the vase I think …

AMY PICKS UP AND INSPECTS THE VASE.

AMY
Yes, definitely the vase … That painting and … That’s it I think.

MATT GATHERS THE NAMED ITEMS TOGETHER.

AMY
Oh, and this lace …

AMY EXAMINS THE LACE.

MATT
It looks the real thing, doesn’t it?

AMY
I think it’s passed it’s best though.

AMY RIPS THE LACE AND THROWS IT IN A BIN.

AMY
Plenty more where that came from.

42. INT. TENT NIGHT

ADAM TRIES TO READ HIS BOOK BUT THE LETTERS ARE SWIMMING BEFORE HIS EYES. HE PUTS THE BOOK ASIDE AND FILLS HIS PIPE WITH MORE TOBACCO. HE LIGHTS IT AND INHALES WITH DELIGHT. HE SMELLS THE AROMA FROM HIS PIPE AND THEN WATCHES IN AWE THE AURA IN THE GASLIGHT. HE RISES AND WOBBLY LEAVES THE TENT.

43. EXT. CAMPSITE NIGHT

ADAM STANDS IN THE SNOW AND WATCHES WITH DELIGHT THE FLAKES FALLING. HE CATCHES A SNOWFLAKE AND INTENSELY STUDIES IT. HE THEN BEGINS TO DANCE, CATCHING MORE FLAKES. HE RUNS WITH RELISH AND JUMPS WITH JOY BEFORE HE BEGINS TO HUG THE FEW SHRUBS. BREATHLESS, HE SITS DOWN IN THE SNOW AND MEDITATES.

44. INT. CAVE DAY

LYING UNDER HIS COAT, GLEN AWAKES AND KISSES CHRISTINE AWAKE.

CHRISTINE
That was the most awful night of my life. I’m freezing and starving.

GLEN
A quickie might help warm you.

HE PULLS HER TOWARDS HIM. CHRISTINE PUSHES HIM AWAY.

CHRISTINE
Twice is enough.

GLEN, NAKED, RISES AND WALKS TO THE ENTRANCE.

GLEN
The snow’s nearly all gone and the sun is out.

CHRISTINE
Great. Let’s find the camp before I die of starvation.

GLEN
No point in finding the camp now.

CHRISTINE
Why not!

GLEN
We have to retrace our steps and meet up with the rest. There’s chocolate in my pocket.

GLEN WALKS BACK AND DRESSES. CHRISTINE CHECKS THE COAT POCKET AND FINDS SEVERAL BARS OF CHOCOLATE.

CHRISTINE
Thanks.

GLEN
I’ll get some more wood. We warm up and then leave this godforsaken cave.

CHRISTINE
Ok, I’ll get dressed.

EXIT GLEN

45. EXT. ON THE MOORS DAY

GLEN CLIMBS A LOW HILL. HE REACHES THE TOP AND, WITH A SATISFIED SMILE, WATCHES THE CAMP, BUSTLING WITH LIFE, CAMPFIRE BURNING FIERCELY, BELOW.

46. INT. TENT DAY

ADAM LIES FULLY CLOTHED ON HIS SLEEPING BAG, SNORING LOUDLY.

47. INT. SHED DAY

MATT WALKS CHEERFULLY INTO THE SHED. HE TAKES HIS JACKET OFF AND PUTS HIS WORK COAT ON. THEN HE BEGINS TO FILL THE SHELVES FROM A BOX. ENTER MO.

MO
Good morning Matt. May I have some black bin liners please?

MATT
Morning Mrs Pitt. Of course you may.

MATT WALKS TO A CUPBOARD AND FINDS IT LOCKED.

MATT
Hang on a minute Mrs Pitt.

MATT WALKS BACK TO WHERE HIS JACKET HANGS AND SEARCHES ITS POCKETS.

MATT
Where the flip are my keys!

HE SEARCHES HIS WORK COAT POCKETS AND TAKES OUT THE BROWN ENVELOPE. MATT LOOKS BEWILDERED AT THE ENVELOPE AS MO LOOKS AT HIM AGHAST.

MO
It is you!! It is you after all!! You went back to the skip for the money!!

MATT
Eh?

MO
You are nothing but a common thief!

MATT
Eh, ho, what are you talking about? I’m not a thief!!

MO
Open it!

MATT
What!

MO
Open the envelope. I can tell you what it says. This is the proof that you are the blackmailer! I will inform the Bursar at once! How could you! How did you find out! You are a disgrace to the school.

MATT
Eh??

MO
There is no point in denying it.

MATT
Mrs Pitt! I have no idea what you're hammering on about!

MO
Open it!!

MATT, TOTALLY CONFUSED, OPENS THE ENVELOPE. AS HE READS, MO SAYS THE WORDS OUT LOUD.

MO
I know who you are. There. Caught red handed.

MATT
You are blackmailed and you know who it is? Lady, you are way off beam.

MO
Eh?

MATT
I have never seen this envelope in my life. I tell you one thing though. The person who is blackmailing you is almighty clever. I was supposed to have taken this from the skip?

MO
Well yes! I saw you take the envelope and throw it in the skip! To mislead me, I thought at the time.

MATT IS FLABBERGASTED.

MATT
(Holds up the envelope)
You saw me take this!

MO
Yes! From the bin by the Health Centre! Yesterday!

MATT
Yesterday? I was emptying bins yesterday!

MO
Exactly!

MATT
Did you see me take the envelope out of that bin?

MO
I thought it was clever of you not to do that! I followed you and saw you tip the bin liners into the skip! Then you disappeared! Another clever move, I thought!

MATT
Good grief woman! What am I supposed to blackmail you with! What do I know!

MO
You found out that it was me who …

MO SUDDENLY REALISES THAT SHE IS ABOUT TO GIVE THE GAME AWAY.

MATT
Did what?

MO
Well, you know …

MATT
I know nothing!!

MO
You don’t?

MATT
No!!!!

MO LOOKS OPEN MOUTHED AT MATT.

MATT
I promise! I swear on my wife’s grave! Cross my heart! I know nothing about this envelope or the blackmail! Do I have to spell it out again!!

MO
Oh my god …

MATT
What is it? What’s the matter?

MO
If it really isn’t you, and I’m sure now that you aren’t, who is it!

MO, PERPLEXED, EXITS LEAVING MATT CONFUSED.

MATT
Flipping heck!

HE LOOKS AT THE ENVELOPE.

MATT
Sod this!

MATT ANGRILY RIPS THE ENVELOPE AND THROWS IT AWAY.

48. INT. TENT DAY

LUCY CRIES AS SHE LOOKS AT A PHOTOGRAPH.

LUCY
I promise you that one day I will have you back.

SHE KISSES THE PHOTOGRAPH.

END OF EPISODE THREE

Episode Three: A Night On The Moors (part five)

2008-04-18T10:49:00.000-07:00

40. INT. PROVISION TENT NIGHT

ADAM, PIPE CLAMPED BETWEEN HIS TEETH, SITS BETWEEN A MISH MASH OF FOOD. OPEN PACKETS AND TINS ARE STREWN ABOUT. ADAM SELECTS A CRACKER, SLICES A PIECE OF SALAMI AND CAREFULLY PUTS THE SALAMI ON THE CRACKER. PUTTING HIS PIPE ASIDE, HE LICKS HIS FINGERS AND TAKES A BITE. ENTER LUCY.

LUCY
What on earth are you doing?

ADAM
Ah, Miss Brown.

LUCY
What a mess!

ADAM
It’s a delight to see you.

LUCY
I can’t exactly say the same.

ADAM
Would you like to join me? The food is delicious.

LUCY
No thank you.

ADAM
As you wish.

LUCY
Are you alright?

ADAM
A bit light headed but otherwise I couldn’t be better my dear.

LUCY
Light headed?

ADAM
It’s nothing.

LUCY
Oh.

ADAM
And how is your lovely brother? What a shame he is not here to taste all this. Prison food must be awful.

LUCY
You are talking a load of rubbish again.

ADAM
Am I really?

LUCY
Yes you are. Goodbye!

LUCY ANGRILY MAKES TO LEAVE.

ADAM
I would stay a little longer if I were you.

LUCY
Oh yeah!

ADAM
I have something to tell you.

LUCY
That will have to wait.

ADAM
This cannot wait any longer.

LUCY
What is it!

ADAM
About your past?

LUCY
What about it?

ADAM
I have found out a little about you.

LUCY
Like what?

ADAM
Your secret.

LUCY
What secret!

ADAM PATS THE FLOOR NEXT TO HIM IN A FATHERLY FASHION.

ADAM
Sit down. Come. Sit next to me, what?

LUCY
Absolutely not!

ADAM
I shall tell you a story. Come on my dear. It’s worth your while.

LUCY SITS NEXT TO HIM.

LUCY
Alright then, tell me your fairy tale.

ADAM
I wish that it were just that.

LUCY
Go on then.

ADAM
Once upon a time a little baby girl was born. Her parents named her Bella. She was a most wanted daughter and she was a very beautiful baby. Her father and her mother adored her. She had two elder brothers who spoiled her to death. Then, when she was about ten years old disaster struck. The younger brother decided to follow into his father’s footsteps.

LUCY LISTENS IN GROWING UNEASE.

ADAM
Am I right so far?

LUCY
Please Adam …

ADAM
And he got shot.

LUCY
Oh my god.

ADAM
The elder one was not too keen to follow his brother. However when his father was murdered he sought revenge. He is now serving life in prison.

LUCY
How did you find out?

ADAM
Our Bella’s mother made her escape and has not been seen for over ten years.

LUCY
Please Adam stop this.

ADAM
Our little Bella grew up into a beautiful young lady.

ADAM EYES LUCY WITH PLEASURE.

ADAM
She still is of course.

LUCY
What will you do?

ADAM
And she would have been fine had she not made a mistake.

LUCY
You know about that too!

ADAM NODS.

LUCY
Shit!

ADAM
Why did you do that?

LUCY
My brother arranged it.

ADAM
But you are an intelligent woman. How could you have been so stupid?

LUCY
It was all so complicated. He was my father’s archenemy’s son. The union was planned to bring the families closer together. To try and stop the killings.

ADAM
Unfortunately he got knifed and is now in a nursing home.

LUCY
He is brain damaged and recognises no one.

ADAM
What a sorry tale.

LUCY
Yeah.

ADAM
Why do you stay married to him?

LUCY
Why?

ADAM
He’s damaged goods. Divorce him.

LUCY
That’s easier said than done.

ADAM
It is just a little paper work my dear. Nothing can be easier.

LUCY
I would be signing my death warrant.

ADAM
And that’s why you did what you did, what?

LUCY
It was the only way to escape.

ADAM
Identity theft.

LUCY
She was a nobody.

ADAM
She was someone’s daughter.

LUCY
She was orphaned. I was the only one present at her funeral.

ADAM
And now you have been found out.

LUCY RISES AND PACES THE TENT. ADAM RELIGHTS HIS PIPE.

ADAM
I could make your life a misery.

LUCY
I know. I have been stupid to think that I was safe.

ADAM
What next?

LUCY
You tell me!

ADAM
No, you inform me of your next move.

LUCY
What will you do?

ADAM
I have not decided yet.

LUCY
Will you tell the Head?

ADAM
Of course not! Your secret is safe with me.

LUCY
For future blackmail?

ADAM
I am not a blackmailer Miss Brown. From now on we are in this together.

LUCY
I’m getting a headache.

ADAM RISES.

ADAM
If I were you I would get some sleep.

LUCY
Another sleepless night. You have no idea what it is like.

ADAM
Tell me.

LUCY
Looking over my shoulder all the time. Listening to my brother’s threats on the phone every night. The lies I have to tell.

ADAM
Does your brother know about your assumed identity?

LUCY
No.

ADAM
Or where you are working?

LUCY
I have kept him in the dark. He thinks that I’m up north somewhere.

ADAM
I think that I could help you.

LUCY
No one can help me.

ADAM
You could marry me!

LUCY
Marry you?

ADAM
Look, I have never proposed before.

LUCY
Why on earth would I marry you?

ADAM
You would be safe! Engage my solicitor to arrange the divorce.

LUCY
You are joking right?

ADAM
I have never been more serious.

LUCY
You are twice my age!

ADAM
And?

LUCY
You could be my dad!

ADAM
Careful Miss Brown. You let your past slip here.

LUCY
What do you mean!

ADAM
By saying my dad instead of my father. It was exactly that sort of slips of the tongue that aroused my suspicion.

LUCY
Oh.

ADAM
Well? Will you engage my solicitor?

LUCY
No thanks. This is my mess. I could not involve you.

ADAM
I am already involved what?

LUCY
But no one knows about that, and anyway Adam, it’s too dangerous.

ADAM
As you wish.

LUCY
What do we do now?

ADAM
Proceed as normal of course.

LUCY
I would never have guessed …

ADAM
Guessed what?

LUCY
Never mind. Thank you.

ADAM
You’re welcome.

LUCY
I’ll see you in the morning.

ADAM
One more thing.

LUCY
What’s that?

ADAM
It was simple to obtain this information. Too easy. What if your husband’s family tries to do the same?

LUCY
They know nothing about my new identity and I’m sure that they will never find out.

ADAM
How can you be so sure?

LUCY
It’s the only way of having some sanity in my life.

ADAM
Come here.

ADAM EMBRACES LUCY.

ADAM
I promise you that I will do anything to keep you safe.

Update And The Story So Far

2008-04-10T06:44:00.000-07:00

Grindhirst is a small British boarding school with two girls houses and two boys houses. The school is set within gardens, close to a river and surrounded by woodland.

This term's story lines are: Lucy's secret, Glen's affair with Christine, Adam's infatuation with Lucy and the extra money Antoinette's parents pay to keep their rebellious daughter in education.

Adam Parson, aged 50, Old School, ardent pipe smoker and Math Teacher is slowly unraveling Lucy's secret. So far he has been involved with hiding a comatose Glen, the lost master key and an adventurous canoe outing. At this moment he is on the moors with Lucy and twenty-nine mixed students. He is waiting for the right time to reveal to Lucy that he knows about her double life.

Glen Miller, aged 28, an irascible drinker and English Teacher has a long standing affair with, now sixth former, Christine. So far Glen has inadvertently been mistaken for a ghost and locked in a shed. He is at this moment lost on the moors seeking shelter from a snowstorm in a cave with Christine.

Lucy Brown, aged 30, feisty feminist and History Teacher is leading a double life. Christine, caught one morning leaving Glen's flat and asked for a favour by Adam, has discovered her secret and has passed the information on to Adam. At this moment she is on the moors blissfully unaware of Adam's intentions to reveal all.

Amy Short, aged 37, self important House Mistress of Silver Birch House and PE teacher is married to Richard who is in the army and away on duty. An airhead, she has lost her charges on a canoe outing and is deeply upset that Antoinette knows about the ten thousand pounds her parents have donated to the school. She was blamed for the repercussions and is baffled by the leaking of the information. She is currently in her apartment.

Matt Baker, aged 51, meticulous and gullible caretaker/gardener was widowed over a year ago and is quietly falling in love with Clare. He got involved with hiding a comatose Glen, Silver Birch's leak and the lost master key. Currently he is on his way to Amy, with a bandaged head, after a hospital accident.

Clare Frump, aged 48, formidable and redoubtable receptionist/porter has never been married. She has had a car accident and had to have her neck in a brace and her arm in a plaster. She has not been at the school for long and has found in Matt a close friend. She has just discovered that the school fees are being increased by ten percent. She has just left the school grounds.

Mo Pitt, aged 59, Matron of Silver Birch House, widowed, forgetful and jealous gossip is not very good at her job. She told her telephone friend Lisa about the ten thousand pounds and was overheard by the house cleaners, who in turn are overheard by Antoinette. After receiving an envelope demanding money for silence, she is determined to find the blackmailer's identity. She has taken Antoinette into her confidence, not realizing that Antoinette is the blackmailer.

Charlotte, bubbly and spoiled, Alexandra, a petulant conformist and Sophie, a mischievous secret drinker, all thirteen-year olds in their first year at school, are continuously up to no good. They mistake Glen for a ghost, hide away from Amy on a canoe outing and are now on the moors and deeply disappointed that the green substance in a little bag, that they thought was something else, is green tea.

Christine Moore and Antoinette Vanderbeek are in their last year at the school. Christine is the devious Head of House who uses an unrestrained window for night visits to Glen. She is currently lost on the moors and sheltering in a cave with Glen. Antoinette is very much anti-establishment and thinks that she is invincible to punishments. At this moment she is taking advantage of Mo's mistaken belief that Matt is the blackmailer and has posted an envelope saying 'I know who you are' in Matt's coat pocket

Rosie Wilson aged 39 and Maggie Harrison aged 55 are the part-time cleaners. Whilst Maggie is conscientious in everything she does, Rosie is indifferent and quite anti boarders. They know it was Mo who gave the secret of the ten thousand pounds away but that without solid proof they cannot do anything about it. They get involved with Antoinette's home brew and think that they have solved the problem with the ancient lace which was accidentally sucked up by the vacuum cleaner.

Robin Bragg, aged 52, upright and severe Bursar who is getting involved solving the problems created by Glen, and Mo.

In the next segment of A Night On The Moors Lucy's secret is revealed.

Episode Three: A Night On The Moors (part four)

2008-04-04T06:36:00.000-07:00

27. INT. HOUSE OFFICE DAY

MO IS ON THE TELEPHONE.

MO
… I did exactly as you said, I put a letter inside the envelope saying ‘I know who you are’ and put it in the bin at twelve … I don’t know Lisa … I waited and guess who it was … No … It was the caretaker … Yes … No, he threw the bag into the skip … I don’t know … You think so? … Oh my god, you could be right … I’ll check it out straight away … Yes … Talk later.

MO HURRIEDLY PUTS THE RECEIVER BACK ON ITS CRADLE. ENTER AMY.

AMY
Ah, Mo. Are we feeling better?

MO
Well I …

AMY
Good! I have a memo from the Second Master about tomorrow’s fire drill. You know about the drill don’t you?

MO
No, I wasn’t told anything.

AMY
You weren’t? Well anyway, it’s not tomorrow. It will be held next Thursday instead.

MO
Next Thursday?

AMY
Is that a problem?

MO
No, no of course not.

AMY
Excellent. Please be in the house to evacuate the boarders.

MO
Where will you be?

AMY
I’ll be at the playing fields. I shall return to the house as fast as I can. Christine will be checking the roll call. Can you supervise?

MO LOOKS WORRIEDLY AT HER WATCH.

AMY
There is another thing I would like to mention. Josephine.

MO
Josephine?

AMY
Yes. She is up to something.

MO
Oh?

AMY
Her behaviour is suspicious.

MO HURRIEDLY LOOKS AT HER WATCH.

AMY
I want you to keep an eye on her. I don’t think she can be trusted.

MO
Certainly.

MO AGAIN LOOKS HURRIEDLY AT HER WATCH.

AMY
Am I keeping you?

MO
I have an appointment with my GP, that’s all.

AMY
I see. There is another matter.

MO
Can it wait? I must go.

AMY
I’d better let you go then. Good luck with your appointment.

EXIT AMY.

MO
Good grief woman!

28. EXT. BY THE SKIPS DAY

MO HURRIEDLY WALKS TO THE SKIPS AND SUDDENLY STOPS AS SHE SEES A FIGURE RUMMAGING IN THE SKIP. ANTOINETTE HAS FOUND AND OPENED THE BROWN ENVELOPE. NONPLUSSED SHE LOOKS AT THE WORDS ‘I KNOW WHO YOU ARE’.

MO
Got you!

MO WALKS TOWARDS THE SKIP AND THUMPS ON IT. ANTOINETTE LOOKS UP AND SEES MO’S ANGRY LOOK. MO’S ANGRY LOOK TURNS INTO SURPRISE. ANTOINETTE’S SURPRISED LOOK TURNS INTO FEAR. SHE DROPS THE LETTER AND ENVELOPE AND SHOVES THEM UNDER A BIN LINER.

MO
Antoinette?

ANTOINETTE
Mrs Pitt!

MO
What are you doing?

ANTOINETTE
I lost my diamond earrings. They probably fell into my bin and a cleaner threw them out. I figured that if she threw them out, they must be in one of these liners. What are you doing here?

MO
Where is Mr Baker?

ANTOINETTE
Mr Baker?

MO
I expected to see him here.

ANTOINETTE
You did? Why?

MO HESITATES.

MO
Can you keep a secret?

ANTOINETTE
Of course!

MO
You have been so well behaved lately.

ANTOINETTE
Well, thank you.

MO
I think that I can trust you with this.

ANTOINETTE
I am intrigued Mrs Pitt.

MO
Come with me. This is quite delicate but perhaps you can help me.

29. INT. CAVE NIGHT

A STRONG WIND BLOWS SNOWFLAKES INTO THE CAVE. LYING UNDER HIS COAT, GLEN STIRS, WAKING CHRISTINE. THEY ARE BOTH COLD AS THE FIRE HAS GONE OUT. GLEN, NAKED, RISES AND MOVES TO THE FIRE. CHRISTINE, NAKED, PULLS HIS COAT TIGHT AROUND HER.

CHRISTINE
I’m bloody hungry and I’m freezing. What’s the time?

GLEN RELIGHTS THE FIRE AND PUTS ON MORE WOOD.

GLEN
Nearly five. It’s too dark to find the camp.

A VICIOUS GUST OF WIND BLOWS MORE SNOWFLAKES INTO THE CAVE.

CHRISTINE
Can’t you hang something by the entrance? It’s so cold!

GLEN
Like what?

CHRISTINE
Come back and warm me.

GLEN
Some more exercise will do the trick.

GLEN SNUGGLES UNDER HIS COAT AND EMBRACES CHRISTINE.

CHRISTINE
I know of a new position. On your knees!

30. EXT. CAMPSITE NIGHT

LUCY AND ADAM, BOTH CARRYING A TORCH, RETURN TO THE CAMPSITE FROM OPPOSITE ENDS. THE SNOW IS EASING SLIGHTLY. ADAM LIGHTS HIS PIPE AND, IRRITATED, HE WAVES THE SNOW AWAY.

LUCY
If they’re in the open they could freeze to death!

ADAM
They will probably keep each other very warm indeed. You worry too much my dear.

LUCY
Of course I worry! You are a fool not to! And what about food! I can’t make a fire in this weather!

ADAM
Bread and water, my dear. Like in prison.

LUCY
What’s the matter with you today! Freedom, prison, you’re talking a load of rubbish.

ADAM
Am I? We’ll see. Would you be so kind and keep me company?

LUCY
No! The children need me!

ADAM
As you wish.

LUCY
What are we going to do about food!

ADAM
Well, That’s your problem. I took my own provisions.

LUCY
What!!

ADAM
I know about surprises on the moors. You should have studied it, what?

LUCY
You are despicable. A man who does not care about his charges! A man with a full stomach whilst the rest of us feel the hunger pains!

ADAM
What some spirit! And I have that as well to keep me even warmer!

LUCY
You … You …

ADAM
For your information, my dear girl, when you go on an expedition like this, you think first and act later. A good lesson to learn, what?

LUCY
You are just unbelievable. I have in mind to report you.

ADAM
Will you?

LUCY
I will make absolutely sure that you never take an expedition again!

ADAM
You will be doing me a favour.

LUCY
You are an insufferable … arrogant …

ADAM
Come with me.

ADAM TAKES LUCY BY HER ARM AND LEADS HER TO A NEARBY TENT. LUCY STRUGGLES TO FREE HERSELF.

LUCY
What are you doing!! Let me go!! Have you gone insane!!

ADAM OPENS THE TENT AND STANDS BACK.

ADAM
I don’t think that anyone will go hungry tonight.

TO LUCY’S AMAZEMENT SHE LOOKS AT AMPLE PROVISIONS AND SEVERAL GAS STOVES.

LUCY
Why didn’t you tell me!

SHE TURNS TO ADAM, BUT HE HAS DISAPPEARED.

31. INT. RECEPTION NIGHT

CLARE, WEARING A NECK BRACE, PUTS HER COAT ON. MATT, WITH A BANDAGED HEAD, ENTERS.

MATT
Did you have a look at that letter?

CLARE
What letter?

MATT
Oh come on, I know you.

CLARE
All right then Matt, I did.

MATT
It’s about the extra ten thousand pounds Antoinette’s parents pay to keep her here, isn’t it?

CLARE
Yes and no. I’m not sure what to make of it.

32. INT. TENT NIGHT

ADAM READS A BOOK BY GASLIGHT. HIS PIPE LIES ON THE ASHTRAY. HE LOOKS AT HIS WATCH AND RISES.

33. EXT. TENT NIGHT

SOPHIE, CHARLOTTE AND ALEXANDRA PEEP OUT FROM THEIR TENT AND WATCH THE SNOW FALLING.

ALEXANDRA
I’m getting tired.

SOPHIE
Patience is a virtue.

CHARLOTTE
Yeah yeah.

SOPHIE
Don’t be such wimps!

ALEXANDRA
I’m going to sleep.

CHARLOTTE
Me too.

SOPHIE
Oh for goodness sake!

ADAM, CHECKING THE CAMP WITH A TORCH, APPROACHES THE GIRLS’ TENT.

SOPHIE
Watch.

ADAM
What are you up to?

SOPHIE
We are watching the snow, Mr Parson.

CHARLOTTE
The flakes are so beautiful.

ALEXANDRA
They come in al sorts of shapes and sizes.

ADAM
Do they now?

SOPHIE
Are you alright Mr Parson?

CHARLOTTE
You look a bit pale!

ADAM
Do I?

SOPHIE
Yes Sir. Maybe you ate something wrong?

ALEXANDRA
Do you like the snow Mr Parson?

ADAM
I hate the damn stuff.

SOPHIE
Oh, Mr Parson …

CHARLOTTE
How can you say that!

ADAM
Come on. It’s time for sleep. In you go.

SOPHIE
Oh, Mr Parson. A little bit longer.

CHARLOTTE
Please?

ALEXANDRA
It could be all gone by tomorrow.

ADAM
Alright. I will do my rounds and when I come back you will go into your tent. Deal?

CHARLOTTE
Yes Mr Parson.

SOPHIE
Have a nice trip Mr Parson.

ADAM LOOKS BEMUSED AT THE GIRLS AND MOVES ON.

ALEXANDRA
What a stupid thing to say!

CHARLOTTE
Have a nice trip Mr Parson?

SOPHIE
You just wait.

CHARLOTTE
You’ve made it all up.

ALEXANDRA
He behaves perfectly normal.

SOPHIE
It has to kick in.

ALEXANDRA
I’m tired.

CHARLOTTE
Me too.

SOPHIE
Oh, come on you two.

ALEXANDRA
When will it kick in then?

SOPHIE
I don’t know!

CHARLOTTE
I thought that you knew exactly what it was!

SOPHIE
I do!

ALEXANDRA
Pffffff …

SOPHIE
There he is.

ADAM WALK TOWARDS THEM.

ADAM
In your tent you go. Good night.

THE GIRLS WISH HIM GOOD NIGHT AND WATCH HIM GO.

CHARLOTTE
He walks normal!

ALEXANDRA
Not one tiny stumble!

CHARLOTTE
We’ll never believe you again.

ALEXANDRA
Come on Charlie, let’s go into the tent.

SOPHIE
I’m telling you!

ALEXANDRA
Yeah? Well you stay here then and keep watching. I’ve had enough.

ALEXANDRA AND CHARLOTTE GO INTO THEIR TENT. SOPHIE WAITS A LITTLE WHILE.

SOPHIE
Alright! You win! It probably is green tea after all.

SHE ENTERS THE TENT.

34. INT. TENT NIGHT

ADAM ENTERS HIS TENT AND SITS DOWN. HE PICKS UP HIS PIPE, ADDS SOME PIPE TOBACCO, LIGHTS IT AND INHALES WITH DELIGHT.

35. INT. TENT NIGHT

CHARLOTTE, SOPHIE AND ALEXANDRA HAVE SETTLED INTO THEIR SLEEPING BAGS. ALEXANDRA LOWERS THE GASLIGHT UNTIL IT GOES OUT. IN THE DARKNESS THE GIRLS WISH EACH OTHER GOOD NIGHT.

36. INT. TENT NIGHT

LUCY TURNS AROUND IN HER SLEEP AND SOFTLY STARTS TO SNORE.

37. INT. CAVE NIGHT

GLEN AND CHRISTINE, ENTWINED, ARE ASLEEP UNDER GLEN’S COAT.

38. EXT. PARKING LOT NIGHT

MATT, WITH HIS HEAD BANDAGED, AND CLARE, WEARING A NECK BRACE, WALK TOWARDS CLARE’S CAR.

MATT
It doesn’t make any sense.

CLARE
Well, I can see why they are thinking about it.

MATT
They’re bonkers!

CLARE
It will bring the fees into line.

MATT
It brings them closer to a riot, I reckon. Whose bright idea is it?

CLARE UNLOCKS HER CAR.

CLARE
I think that even you can guess that one.

MATT
What, the Bursar?

CLARE
That man is always after more money.

MATT
If only he had that much sense.

CLARE
Can I give you a lift home?

MATT
No thanks. I have one more little job to do.

CLARE
This time of night! It’s close to eleven!

MATT
I promised.

CLARE ENTERS HER CAR.

CLARE
What sort of a job is it?

MATT
Oh, it’s a little something for Mrs Short. I’ll better go. She’s waiting for me.

CLARE
See you tomorrow.

CLARE CLOSES THE DOOR OF HER CAR. MATT WAVES AT HER AND WALKS TOWARDS SILVER BIRCH HOUSE.

39. INT. SHED NIGHT

ANTOINETTE, HOLDING A BROWN ENVELOPE IN HER HAND, CAREFULLY ENTERS THE SHED. SHE SEES MATT’S WORK COAT HANGING ON A NAIL AND SHE PUTS THE ENVELOPE IN ITS POCKET. SHE THEN QUICKLY AND QUIETLY WALKS OUT OF THE SHED.

Episode Three: A Night On The Moors (part three)

2008-03-27T09:21:00.000-07:00

16. INT. HOUSE KITCHEN DAY

MAGGIE CAREFEULLY TAKES THE ANCIENT LACE FROM SOAPY WATER IN THE SINK AND RINSES IT CAREFULLY IN A BOWL OF WARM CLEAN WATER. ROSIE HOLDS A TOWEL AND MAGGIE PUTS THE LACE IN THE TOWEL, ROLLING THE TOWEL AROUND THE LACE.

MAGGIE
This should do the trick.

ROSIE
Let’s have a look.

MAGGIE UNROLLS THE TOWEL AND HOLDS UP A CLEAN AND DRY LACE.

MAGGIE
As good as new.

ROSIE
Too new.

MAGGIE
She’ll never notice.

17. INT. HOUSE APARTMENT LOUNGE DAY

MAGGIE AND ROSIE ENTER. MAGGIE PUTS THE LACE BACK ON THE TABLE. THEY PICK UP THEIR CLEANING BASKETS AND TAKE THE VACUUM CLEANER OUT OF THE APARTMENT.

ROSIE
Mission accomplished.

MAGGIE
Amen to that.

ROSIE LOOKS AT THE VASE, PAINTING, NEST OF TABLES AND THE PERSIAN RUG.

ROSIE
I wouldn’t mind having some of that stuff.

MAGGIE
It wouldn’t look right in your house.

ROSIE
Would she notice if I took that rug?

MAGGIE
Yes! That would be stealing!

ROSIE
It’s not right though.

MAGGIE
I know, a beautiful apartment, no overheads, free food …

ROSIE
And loads of money she earns for looking after forty rich kids.

18. EXT. ON THE MOORS DAY

GLEN SITS ON A GRASSY KNOLL SWIGGING FROM HIS FLASK. CHRISTINE WALKS TOWARDS HIM.

GLEN
Well?

CHRISTINE
Nothing!

CHRISTINE SITS DOWN NEXT TO GLEN. SHE TAKES HIS FLASK AND DRINKS FROM IT.

CHRISTINE
I’m getting cold.

GLEN
Take this.

HE GIVES HER HIS SCARF. CHRISTINE WRAPS IT AROUND HER.

CHRISTINE
It’s nearly two o’clock. It will be dark soon.

GLEN
Oh come on. We have a good three hours of daylight left.

CHRISTINE
Then we’d better get on with it. I don’t fancy staying in the open for the night.

GLEN
You think that I do?

CHRISTINE
I don’t know. I know nothing about you anymore. You are at this moment a complete stranger to me.

GLEN
Don’t be silly. Trust me.

CHRISTINE
I will have to, wont I?

GLEN
Come on. Let’s go in that direction.

GLEN RISES. SNOWFLAKES COME TWIRLING DOWN. GLEN AND CHRISTINE LOOK UP INTO THE SKY.

GLEN
Bugger!!

19. EXT. ON THE MOORS DAY

LUCY AND ADAM, CLIMBING A HILL, LOOK UP AT THE SKY AS THE SNOWFLAKES FALL.

LUCY
This was not forecast!

ADAM
No. A good thing that the tents are up, what?

A SNOWFLAKE LANDS IN HIS PIPE, QUENCHING THE LIGHT.

ADAM
The damn stuff gets into everything!

LUCY BEGINS TO GIGGLE.

LUCY
You don’t like the snow much, do you?

ADAM
I hate the stuff.

LUCY
Don’t be so stuffy! Lighten up! It’s fun!

ADAM
Is it?

GRUMBLING, ADAM RELIGHTS HIS PIPE. THEY HAVE REACHED THE HILL’S SUMMIT. BELOW THEM TWENTY-NINE MIXED STUDENTS, RANGING FROM THIRTEEN TO EIGHTEEN, ARE MILLING AROUND AN EMPTY CAMPSITE.

LUCY
What in hell is going on?

ADAM
Good question!

SOPHIE, ALEXANDRA AND CHARLOTTE COME RUNNING UP THE HILL.

SOPHIE
Mr Parson, Mr Parson!

CHARLOTTE
The tents are not up!!

ADAM
Well that can only mean one thing.

SOPHIE
What’s that?

ADAM
We will have to sleep in the open.

ALEXANDRA
But we will freeze to death!

ADAM
Will we now?

ALEXANDRA
I don’t like this … I want to go back …

LUCY
Stop that Mr Parson. Don’t believe him Alex. Come on. You know the drill. Before you can say, Bob’s your uncle; we’ll provide you with hot chocolate. Off you go!

RELIEVED THE GIRLS RUN BACK DOWN.

LUCY
Where are Christine and Glen!

ADAM
I told him not to do what I wouldn’t.

LUCY
You’re talking in riddles again. And by the way, you still have not told me how you know about my brothers. Well?

ADAM PUFFS ON HIS PIPE AND SUDDENLY STRIDES DOWN THE HILL.

LUCY
Don’t you walk away like that!

ADAM
Come on my dear!

LUCY FOLLOWS HIM DOWN THE HILL.

LUCY
And don’t call me that!!

20. EXT. ON THE MOORS DUSK

THE TENTS ARE UP. THE SNOW IS FALLING HEAVILY. ADAM, PIPE CLAMPED BETWEEN HIS TEETH, PEERS FROM HIS TENT. A SNOWFLAKE FALLS INTO HIS PIPE AND HE QUICKLY WITHDRAWS INTO HIS TENT.

21. INT. CAVE DUSK

CHRISTINE SITS SHIVERING WAITING FOR GLEN. SHE GETS UP AND LOOKS OUT ONTO THE MOORS. THE SNOW FALLS HEAVILY. THERE IS NO SIGN OF GLEN.

22. EXT. BY THE SKIPS DAY

MATT, WITH HIS HEAD BANDAGED, TAKES FULL BINLINERS FROM THE CART AND TIPS THEM INTO ONE OF THE SKIPS. MO, HIDING, WATCHES FROM ONE SIDE AND ANTOINETTE, HIDING, FROM ANOTHER.

23. INT. RECEPTION DAY

CLARE, WEARING A NECK BRACE, RESEALS THE ENVELOPE ADDRESSED TO THE GOVERNORS.

24. INT. CAVE DUSK

GLEN, SHIVERING AND ARMS FULL OF WOOD, STAGGERS INTO THE CAVE.

CHRISTINE
What took you so long! I was worried!

GLEN
You try and find wood in this weather!

CHRISTINE
Light it!

GLEN PUTS THE WOOD DOWN.

CHRISTINE
Hurry up, will you!

GLEN SEARCHES HIS POCKETS.

CHRISTINE
You are useless!

CHRISTINE THROWS GLEN HER LIGHTER. GLEN LOOKS AT IT IN ASTONISHMENT.

GLEN
You are a smoker!!

CHRISTINE
And?

GLEN
You know how much I hate smokers!

CHRISTINE
So?

GLEN
How could you!

CHRISTINE
You are a drinker!

GLEN
That’s different!

CHRISTINE
What’s the difference!

GLEN
Smokers stink!

CHRISTINE
And alcohol doesn’t smell?

GLEN
Not as bad as smoke!

CHRISTINE
You have never smelled it on me!

GLEN
I will from now on!

CHRISTINE
No you wont! Light that fire!

GLEN LIGHTS THE FIRE.

GLEN
How many more secrets do you have!

CHRISTINE
Oh god, will you give over!

GLEN
No! You swore that you had never smoked in your life! You lied!

CHRISTINE
As if you never lied!

GLEN
Not to you!

CHRISTINE
Yes you have! You told me that I was the first girl ever you’d fallen in love with!

GLEN
That was a line to …

CHRISTINE
Get me into your bed!

GLEN
Well … In love and war and all that.

CHRISTINE
You are a mean, mean man.

GLEN RAKES THE FIRE AS CHRISTINE WARMS HERSELF.

GLEN
Now it’s my turn.

CHRISTINE
What for?

GLEN
Not knowing if I can ever trust you again.

CHRISTINE
Good!

GLEN
No it’s not good. Here we are, stuck in a cave, fighting like cats and dogs. I don’t like it.

CHRISTINE
And you think that I do?

GLEN
Come here.

GLEN TAKES HER INTO HIS ARMS.

GLEN
Let’s stay close.

CHRISTINE
I think that we just had our first lovers tiff, don’t you?

GLEN
I do, and it was not nice. Come on let’s keep each other warm. Some exercise will do the trick.

CHRISTINE
And what sort of exercise are you thinking of?

GLEN
I think that you know. Let’s take this off.

THEY PASSIONATELY KISS AND HASTILY BEGIN TO UNDRESS EACH OTHER.

25. INT. TENT DUSK

CHARLOTTE, SOPHIE AND ALEXANDRA ARE, FULLY CLOTHED, SNUGGLED UP IN THEIR SLEEPING BAGS.

CHARLOTTE
I’m freezing.

SOPHIE TAKES A QUARTER-SIZED VODKA BOTTLE FROM HER BAG.

SOPHIE
Have some of this.

SOPHIE AND CHARLOTTE SHARE THE BOTTLE. ALEXANDRA OPENS HER BAG. SHE RUMMAGES AND TAKES OUT A LITTLE PLASTIC BAG FILLED WITH GREEN POWDER.

CHARLOTTE
What’s that?

ALEXANDRA
My brother sent it to me when he found out about this trip. Apparently it keeps you warm.

SOPHIE
Let me see.

ALEXANDRA GIVES THE BAG TO SOPHIE, WHO OPENS THE BAG AND INSPECTS THE CONTENTS.

ALEXANDRA
He said in his letter that it’s green tea.

CHARLOTTE
Green tea? That’s Chinese isn’t it?

ALEXANDRA
They drink it when it’s cold in China.

CHARLOTTE
What does it taste like?

ALEXANDRA
I don’t know.

CHARLOTTE
Can I have some?

ALEXANDRA
Let's ask Miss Brown to prepare it for us.

CHARLOTTE
Goody!

ALEXANDRA AND CHARLOTTE GET OUT OF THEIR SLEEPING BAGS.

CHARLOTTE
I love trying out new things.

ALEXANDRA
As long as it keeps me warm, I don’t care what it tastes like.

ALEXANDRA HOLDS OUT HER HAND TO SOPHIE.

ALEXANDRA
Sophie?

SOPHIE
This is not green tea!

ALEXANDRA
What?

SOPHIE
No.

CHARLOTTE
What is it then?

SOPHIE
Come with me.

26. EXT. TENT DUSK

THE SNOW FALLS HEAVILY. SOPHIE, ALEXANDRA AND CHARLOTTE WALK TOWARDS A TENT.

ALEXANDRA
I’m not at all sure about this!

SOPHIE
Always the spoilsport.

CHARLOTTE
Do you really think it is?

SOPHIE
Absolutely.

ALEXANDRA
How do you know?

SOPHIE
I just do. Stay here.

ALEXANDRA AND CHARLOTTE WATCH SOPHIE CREEP INTO THE TENT.

ALEXANDRA
I think it’s mean.

CHARLOTTE
It could be fun though.

ALEXANDRA
What’s funny about that!

CHARLOTTE
Oh Alex, lighten up for once.

SOPHIE CREEPS BACK OUT OF THE TENT.

SOPHIE
It’s done. Now we watch the show.

Episode Three: A Night On The Moors (part two)

2008-03-18T11:22:00.000-07:00

9. EXT. ON THE MOORS DAY

ADAM AND LUCY WALK BEHIND TWENTY-NINE MIXED STUDENTS RANGING FROM THIRTEEN TO EIGHTEEN YEARS. CHARLOTTE, SOPHIE AND ALEXANDRA ARE WALKING TOGETHER. ADAM PUFFS LUSTILY ON HIS PIPE.

ADAM
I have known you now for half a term and still know nothing about you.

LUCY
What’s there to know?

ADAM
Well … Where were you born? Where were you educated? Do you have siblings? That sort of thing.

LUCY
Oh, those sort of things.

ADAM
Yes. Are you going to enlighten me?

LUCY
No.

ADAM
Why not?

AHEAD OF THEM THE THREE GIRLS ARE HAVING AN ARGUMENT.

ALEXANDRA
I am not!!

SOPHIE
You’ll have to!

ALEXANDRA
Stuff you!

SOPHIE
You just wait!

CHARLOTTE
Leave her alone Sophie!

SOPHIE
Why should I!

ALEXANDRA
I’ll ask Mr Parson.

SOPHIE
He’ll tell you the same!

ALEXANDRA
I am NOT!

SOPHIE
It’s all part of the exercise!

CHARLOTTE
I’m sure that you don’t have to.

SOPHIE
And I’m sure that you do!

BEHIND THEM LUCY AND ADAM ARE ALSO ARGUING.

LUCY
It’s none of your damn business!

ADAM
All right my dear, keep your hair on.

LUCY
And stop calling me that! I’m nobodies dear!

ADAM
What about … What if I tell you that I found out something?

LUCY
Oh yeah? Like what?

ADAM
Let’s just say that I know that you have two brothers.

AGHAST, LUCY ABRUPTLY STOPS WALKING.

LUCY
What! Who gave you that information!

ADAM
Ah, that’s for me to know my dear and for you to guess.

LUCY
I see … You are wrong of course.

ADAM
I don’t think so.

LUCY
I only have one brother.

ADAM
The younger one died. I know.

LUCY
Ok, hot shot!! Tell me more!! It seems that you know more about me than you are letting on!! Come on then!!

ALEXANDRA COMES RUNNING TOWARDS THEM, FOLLOWED BY CHARLOTTE AND SOPHIE.

ALEXANDRA
Mr Parson! Mr Parson!

ADAM
What’s wrong Alexandra?

ALEXANDRA
They say that I have to eat meat!

ADAM
Do they now.

ALEXANDRA
Is it true?

ADAM
Well young lady. What if it is?

ALEXANDRA
I’m a vegetarian!

LUCY
Who told you that?

SOPHIE GIGGLES.

ALEXANDRA
She did!!

LUCY
You! Cut out the giggling!

CHARLOTTE
I told her that it’s not true!

ADAM
Well, I’m not too sure. We are supposed to be barbarians. They ate nothing but meat.

ADAM BARES HIS TEETH AND MAKES EATING NOISES. ALEXANDRA IS HORRIFIED.

LUCY
Mr Parson! Stop that! You are frightening her!

ALEXANDRA
I want to go home.

LUCY
There, there. It’s not true. You can eat what you like. Come on.

LUCY TAKES ALEXANDRA BY THE HAND AND WALKS ON, FOLLOWED BY SOPHIE AND CHARLOTTE. ADAM WATCHES LUCY’S MOVEMENTS, PUFFING LUSTILY ON HIS PIPE.

10. EXT. ON THE MOORS DAY

GLEN AND CHRISTINE STOP WALKING.

GLEN
We should have arrived by now. Give me the map.

CHRISTINE
What map?

GLEN
Don’t play the dumbo Chrissie.

CHRISTINE
I don’t have a map!

GLEN
Haven’t you?

GLEN CHECKS HIS COAT POCKETS.

CHRISTINE
What about your rucksack?

GLEN CHECKS HIS RUCKSACK.

GLEN
Bugger.

CHRISTINE
For god’s sake Glen, don’t tell me that you have no idea where we are!

GLEN
Why didn’t you take a map?

CHRISTINE
Nobody told me to.

GLEN
How many times have you not been on this trip!

CHRISTINE
It's the first time that I was chosen to help set up camp!

GLEN
And yet you forgot about a map!

CHRISTINE
Apparently, so did you!

GLEN
If you had taken a map I would have known where we are!

CHRISTINE
Me!! You are the teacher, in case you’d forgotten!!

GLEN
You are eighteen-years old! You have known about this trip for months! You should have been much more responsible!

CHRISTINE
What cobblers! You are the adult! You have known about this trip a lot longer than me! It’s your responsibility to provide the necessities, like a map! Moron!

GLEN
Don’t you call me a moron!

CHRISTINE IS SEETHING AND WALKS AWAY FROM GLEN.

GLEN
Now where are you going!!

CHRISTINE
To the campsite! That’s what!

GLEN
Ah right! You know where it is, do you!

CHRISTINE
At least I’m trying!

GLEN TAKES HIS FLASK AND TAKES A SWIG. CHRISTINE FURIOUSLY WALKS BACK.

CHRISTINE
You wont find the answer in that! Give it to me! Drinking whilst on an exercise! Unbelievable!!

CHRISTINE REACHES OUT FOR THE FLASK. GLEN AVOIDS HER HAND AND PUTS THE FLASK AWAY.

GLEN
Stop being so patronising! As if you are the holiest of holies!!

CHRISTINE
Alright then mister! You carry on drinking! I’ll go on my way!

GLEN
For god’s sake Christine! Don’t be a dickhead! You wont be able to find your own way! We have to stick together!

CHRISTINE
Oh, I see!! Suddenly Mister Miller has to stick to me is it! No more sweet-talk now then! And another thing Mister! Keep to your tent tonight!!

ANGRILY, CHRISTINE STOMPS OFF. GLEN ROLLS HIS EYES, TAKES ONE LAST SWIG AND FOLLOWS.

11. EXT. HOSPITAL CARPARK DAY

CLARE, WARING A NECK BRACE, CAREFULLY MOVES HER LEFT ARM. MATT, WEARING A BANDAGE AROUND HIS HEAD, OPENS THE CAR DOOR.

MATT
Dangerous places hospitals.

CLARE
If you had looked where you walked, it wouldn’t have happened.

MATT
Who leaves a trolley in the middle of a corridor!

CLARE
For you to trip over! … Keys!

MATT
No way! I’m driving!

CLARE
Give! Until your head is right, you are not to drive. Doctor’s orders!

MAT OPENS HIS MOUTH TO PROTEST BUT, SEEING CLARE’S GLARE, HE PASSES THE KEYS TO HER WITH A SIGH.

12. INT. HOUSE APARTMENT LOUNGE DAY

MAGGIE IS DUSTING. ROSIE IS VACUUMING THE CHAIRS.

MAGGIE
I have never seen so much dirt in one place!!

ROSIE
What!!

ROSIE TURNS TO MAGGIE, HOLDING THE FOOT OF THE VACUUM CLEANER HIGH. SLOWLY THE FOOT OF THE VACUUM CLEANER MOVES CLOSER TO THE ANCIENT LACE LYING ON THE TABLE.

MAGGIE
The dirt is just unbelievable!!

ROSIE
Oh, I know!!

ROSIE MOVES THE FOOT OF THE VACUUM CLEANER AND THE LACE IS SUCKED UP. MAGGIE AND ROSIE LOOK HORRIFIED AT THE VACUUM CLEANER AND THEN AT EACH OTHER.

13. INT. RECEPTION DAY

CLARE, WEARING A NECK BRACE, TAKES OFF HER COAT AND CHECKS THE ANSWERING MACHINE. THE ANSWERING MACHINE SAYS ’YOU HAVE TWENTY-FOUR MESSAGES’. CLARE SWITCHES THE MACHINE OFF. MATT, WITH HIS HEAD BANDAGED, RAISES HIS EYEBROWS.

CLARE
Away for a few hours and that many messages!

MATT
Aren’t you going to listen to them?

CLARE
Not with you around. I guess they are from angry parents. Complaining.

MATT
Still moaning about the ten thousand?

CLARE
What is this?

CLARE PICKS UP AN ENVELOPE AND READS.

CLARE
Memo to the governor’s meeting. Hmmmm they are going to discuss that matter. Interesting.

MATT
Open it.

CLARE
What?

MATT
Steam it open and see what it says.

CLARE
Are you bonkers? It has nothing to do with us!

MATT
Always prim and proper. Lighten up a bit and steam it open. I’m curious!

CLARE
Absolutely not! Do your work and let me do mine. Come on. Out you go.

MATT
But …

CLARE
Out!

MATT
Oh alright.

EXIT MATT. CLARE PUTS THE KETTLE ON, LOCKS THE DOOR AND STEAMS OPEN THE ENVELOPE.

14. EXT. SILVER BIRCH LAWN DAY

THE HOOVERBAG HAS BEEN RIPPED OPEN. THE ANCIENT LACE RETRIEVED. MAGGIE HOLDS IT UP.

ROSIE
It’s ruined.

MAGGIE EXAMINES THE LACE.

MAGGIE
It’s not broken.

ROSIE
It’s absolutely filthy.

ROSIE TAKES THE LACE.

ROSIE
Wash it?

MAGGIE
It’s too fragile.

ROSIE
We could give it a try.

MAGGIE
It will fall to pieces when it’s put in a washing machine. Even a delicate wash would destroy it.

ROSIE
You reckon?

MAGGIE
Definitely.

ROSIE
We have to own up then. Cough up the money. Lots of money. As if she hasn’t got enough!

15. EXT. HEALTH CENTRE DAY

MO STANDS BY A BIN AND CAREFULLY LOOKS AROUND. SEEING THAT SHE IS ALONE SHE NONCHALANTLY DROPS A BROWN ENVELOPE IN A FULL BIN. SHE LOOKS AROUND AND SLOWLY WALKS AWAY.

BEHIND SOME BUSHES, ANTOINETTE OBSERVES MO. SHE WAITS FOR MO TO DISAPPEAR.

MO HIDES BEHIND A TREE AND WAITS FOR SOMEONE TO PICK UP THE ENVELOPE.

ANTOINETTE BEGINS TO MOVE TOWARDS THE BIN, BUT SUDDENLY MATT, WITH HIS HEAD BANDAGED, APPEARS, PULLING A CART WITH FULL BLACK BIN LINERS. ANTOINETTE QUICKLY STEPS BACK.

MATT WHISTLES A TUNE AS HE PULLS THE FULL LINER OUT OF THE BIN AND PUTTS IT ON THE CART. HE PLACES A CLEAN LINER IN THE BIN AND WALKS TOWARDS THE NEXT BIN.

MO IS FLABBERGASTED.

MO
Matt! You!

ANTOINETTE IS FURIOUS THAT HER PLANS ARE FOILED.

ANTOINETTE
Idiot!

MO AND ANTOINETTE FOLLOW MATT AT A DISTANCE WITHOUT SEEING EACH OTHER.

Episode Three: A Night On The Moors (part one)

2008-03-11T11:03:00.000-07:00

1. INT. HOUSE MAIN AREA DAWN

ANTOINETTE SNEAKS DOWN THE STAIRS. SHE TIPTOES TOWARDS MO’S OFFICE AND SLIDES A BROWN ENVELOPE UNDERNEATH THE DOOOR. SHE THEN TIPTOES BACK UP THE STAIRS.

2. INT. HOUSE MAIN AREA DAY

ROSIE AND MAGGIE WALK INTO AN EMPTY AND SILENT HOUSE. ROSIE TRIES TO OPEN MO’S DOOR AND FINDS IT LOCKED. AMY ENTERS FROM HER APARTMENT AND WALKS TOWARDS THEM.

MAGGIE
Where’s Mo?

AMY ANSWERS AS SHE PASSES.

AMY
She didn’t feel well and went home.

EXIT AMY. MAGGIE AND ROSIE LOOK AT EACH OTHER IN DELIGHT.

MAGGIE
Great!

ROSIE
No one behind your back al the time.

MAGGIE
What about a cup of coffee before we start?

ROSIE LOOKS AROUND HER.

ROSIE
What a mess!

MAGGIE OPENS THE KITCHEN DOOR AND GASPS.

MAGGIE
It’s dreadful in here too! Look!

ROSIE PEEPS INTO THE KITCHEN.

ROSIE
Right, first a coffee, then I tackle the kitchen.

MAGGIE
I’ll do this here then. Give it a good clean.

3. EXT. PARKING LOT DAY

THIRTY MIXED STUDENTS RANGING FROM THIRTEEN TO EIGHTEEN YEARS ARE BOARDING A COACH. CHRISTINE, CHARLOTTE, SOPHIE AND ALEXANDRA ARE AMONGST THEM. GLEN IS TICKING THE NAMES OFF A LIST AS THEY BOARD. ADAM, SMOKING HIS PIPE, AND LUCY, HOLDING A MAP IN HER HANDS, ARE STANDING NEARBY. A LITTLE FURTHER AWAY, CLARE, WEARING A NECK BRACE AND HER LEFT ARM OUTSTRETCHED IN A PLASTER, AND MATT ARE WALKING TOWARDS MATT’S CAR.

LUCY
This is the spot where we camp, isn’t it? All our camping gear is waiting there, right?

ADAM
Spot on, my dear.

LUCY
Cut it.

ADAM
Pardon?

LUCY
Stop calling me, my dear.

ADAM
I’m sorry …

ADAM TURNS AND JOINS GLEN.

ADAM
… Come along, my dear.

INFURIATED LUCY FOLLOWS.

ADAM
All aboard?

GLEN
They’re all here, after you.

ADAM BOARDS THE COACH, FOLLOWED BY LUCY. GLEN TICKS THEIR NAMES OFF THE LIST AND BOARDS. ADAM EXITS THE COACH, FOLLOWED BY LUCY.

ADAM
You woman folk can make life damn miserable for a man.

LUCY
You know that you cannot smoke in the coach.

WITH A SIGH, ADAM KNOCKS OUT HIS PIPE AND PROCEEDS TO PUT IT IN HIS POCKET.

LUCY
Give it to me.

ADAM
Most certainly not!

LUCY
Stop being such a stubborn old fool. It’s to keep you from temptation! I’ll keep the pipe in my bag.

ADAM
Ah, I see! Lock it up!

NONPLUSSED LUCY TAKES THE PIPE AND PUTS IT IN HER BAG. THEY BOARD THE COACH. A LITTLE FURTHER AWAY, MATT UNLOCKS HIS CAR.

CLARE
I easily could have taken a taxi.

MATT
I know …

CLARE
I hate being dependent upon you.

MATT
I know …

CLARE
The sooner this plaster is off the better.

MATT
I know …

THE COACH LEAVES AND THEY ENTER THE CAR AND DRIVE OFF.

4. INT. MO’S LOUNGE DAY

MO TALKS TO HER HOUSE PLANTS AS SHE WATERS THEM.

MO
Here you are Azalea, a drop for you … Tell me, how would you resolve this problem? … Or you, little Violet … What would you do? … If only you could help me.

MO PUTS THE WATERING CAN DOWN, PICKS UP A LETTER AND READS.

MO
I know it is you who blabbed. Put five thousand pounds cash, in a brown envelope, in the bin by the Health Centre today at noon, or else.

MO SIGHS AND SITS DOWN.

MO
What to do? What to do?

MO PICKS UP THE TELEPHONE RECEIVER AND DIALS A NUMBER.

MO
Lisa? I need your help.

5. INT. COACH DAY

THIRTY MIXED STUDENTS ARE SITTING IN THE COACH. AMONGST THEM ARE SOPHIE, ALEXANDRA AND SOPHIE. GLEN SITS NEXT TO CHRISTINE. ADAM, SITTING NEXT TO LUCY, SEARCHES FOR HIS PIPE IN HIS POCKETS.

LUCY
Oh for goodness sake! Stop doing that! You know that it’s in my bag!

ADAM
Ah, yes. Habit what?

LUCY
You just have to be patient and wait.

ADAM
The long wait for freedom, what?

LUCY
Excuse me?

ADAM
Pardon?

LUCY
What did you mean by that remark?

THE COACH STOPS AND GLEN AND CHRISTINE RISE. GLEN ADDRESSES THE STUDENTS.

GLEN
Listen up everyone. Christine and I depart here to walk towards the campsite. We will have made camp by the time you arrive from the other side of the moors. Is that clear?

STUDENTS
Yes sir!

GLEN
Driver, open the door. We’ll see you later.

GLEN AND CHRISTINE MAKE FOR THE DOOR.

ADAM
Don’t do anything that I wouldn’t do.

GLEN
And what would that be?

LUCY
Don’t listen to him. He’s irascible and talks in riddles.

6. EXT. MOORS ROADSIDE SAY

GLEN AND CHRISTINE WATCH THE COACH DISAPPEAR AROUND A BEND.

GLEN
Finally!

HE TAKES CHRISTINE IN HIS ARMS AND THEY KISS PASSIONATELY.

GLEN
I could take you here and now. Feel me.

HE PRESSES HIS GROIN ONTO CHRISTINE, WHO STEPS BACK.

CHRISTINE
There’s plenty of time for that later when we snuggle in your sleeping bag.

GLEN
That thought makes me want you even more. What about a quicky?

CHRISTINE
Glen!!

GLEN
Oh come on.

CHRISTINE
Absolutely not! You have to wait.

GLEN
I love it when you frown like that. Come here.

HE KISSES HER.

CHRISTINE
Come on, let’s go.

GLEN PUTS HIS ARM AROUND CHRISTINE’S SHOULDER. CHRISTINE HOLDS HERS AROUND HIS WAIST AND THEY SET OFF ON TO THE MOORS.

7. INT. HOUSE MAIN AREA DAY

MAGGIE HAS PULLED OUT ALL THE CHAIRS AND SOFA’S AND TAKEN OFF THEIR COVERS. ENTER AMY WITH FIFTEEN STUDENTS AND ANOTHER TEACHER WITH TEN STUDENTS.

AMY
There’s the kitchen, Mike.

THE TEACHER AND HIS STUDENTS ENTER THE KITCHEN.

AMY
In here you lot!

AMY LEADS HER STUDENTS INTO THE MAIN AREA. MAGGIE LOOKS AGHAST.

AMY
Oh bother. Sorry Maggie, but I have to teach in here. Someone double booked the classroom. You lot, put the covers back on!

MAGGIE
I was giving this a real good clean!

MAGGIE LOOKS IN DISMAY AS THE STUDENTS PUT THE COVERS BACK ON. ROSIE EXITS THE KITCHEN WITH A FURIOUS LOOK ON HER FACE.

AMY
Oh dear. I am so sorry Rosie. Did no one mention the cookery lesson to you?

ROSIE
No.

AMY
Gosh … Bother … I am so sorry about this … I really need silence for his lesson … So no hoovering I’m afraid … But, why not go into my apartment and see what you can do there? That gives you something to do whilst Mike and I are teaching. How about it?

MAGGIE AND ROSIE GIVE EACH OTHER A LOOK.

AMY
Brilliant!

AMY TURNS AND WALKS TO HER CLASS. MAGGIE AND ROSIE SHRUG THEIR SHOULDERS, PICK UP THEIR CLEANING BASKETS AND TAKE THE VACUUM CLEANER TO AMY’S APARTMENT.

8. INT. HOUSE APARTMENT LOUNGE DAY

MAGGIE AND ROSIE ENTER.

ROSIE
He just walked into the kitchen and told them to make toast! He then helped himself to butter and cheese! No consideration that I was in there! I had pulled everything out!

MAGGIE
Same thing happened to me! Why doesn’t Amy ever communicate!

ROSIE LOOKS AROUND.

ROSIE
Wow, nice place. Feel the carpet, it’s as if you walk on a cloud!

SHE PICKS UP A VASE.

ROSIE
Look at this Maggie. I’d say this is antique!

MAGGIE
The furniture is fantastic. The school doesn’t safe on expenses here.

ROSIE
You can say that again. Is that painting real? Or is it a clever imitation?

MAGGIE
What do you know about paintings?

ROSIE
Evening classes.

MAGGIE
Look at this.

SHE PICKS UP A LACE.

MAGGIE
This must be hundreds of years old.

ROSIE
How do you know?

MAGGIE
My Granny taught me a thing or two about lace when I was little. She was an expert.

ROSIE
Let me see that.

MAGGIE AND ROSIE ADMIRE THE LACE.

MAGGIE
Ever so fragile.

ROSIE
What about that nest of tables?

MAGGIE
Walnut.

ROSIE
The lady certainly has taste.

MAGGIE
And money … That Persian rug alone is worth a small fortune.

ROSIE GOES WITH HER FINGER OVER THE MANTELPIECE AND SHOWS THE DIRT ON HER FINGER TO MAGGIE.

ROSIE
Money she has but clean she is not.

MAGGIE
We’d better get on with it then.

Episode Two: The Searchers (part six)

2008-03-04T10:07:00.000-08:00

47. EXT. RIVERBANK DAY

CHARLOTTE AND SOPHIE’S CANOES HAVE BEEN FOUND. AMY POINTS AT THE SWEET WRAPPERS AND A TRAIL OF FOOTSTEPS GOING INTO THE WOODS. MATT, GLEN AND LUCY STAND BESIDE HER.

AMY
That looks like two children and an adult to me.

LUCY
Those years of Duke of Edinburgh Award’s are showing.

GLEN
Good! We can go now. Come on Matt.

MATT AND GLEN WALK TOWARDS THE DOUBLE CANOE.

AMY
You can’t go now!!

GLEN
Why not? It looks to me as if they have been found!

MATT
The search is over.

AMY
Absolutely not! They might have been kidnapped!

LUCY
You men! Always trying to take the easy way out! Shame on you!

AMY
Follow me!!

GLEN
You are joking aren’t you?

AMY
I am deadly serious. Come on! We follow the footsteps into the woods and see where they have gone.

GLEN ROLLS HIS EYES. MATT SHRUGS HIS SHOULDERS AND THEY SET OFF INTO THE WOODS.

48. INT. SCHOOL HALL DAY

ADAM EXITS THE HEADMASTERS OFFICE, CLOSES THE DOOR BEHIND HIM AND LOOKS DOWN ONTO CHARLOTTE AND SOPHIE WHO ARE SITTING MISERABLY IN THE HALL.

ADAM
Now you two, you both listen attentively. You stand up straight and all that you can say is ‘yes sir, no sir and thank you sir’. Understood? Don’t get yourself into any more trouble.

SOPHIE AND CHARLOTTE
Yes Mr Parson.

ADAM
Come on then. In you go.

ADAM KNOCKS AND OPENS THE DOOR. THE GIRLS HESITANTLY WALK INTO THE OFFICE. ADAM FOLLOWS AND CLOSES THE DOOR BEHIND HIM.

49. EXT. WOODS DUSK

LUCY AND AMY COME TOGETHER FROM DIFFERENT DIRECTIONS. THEY ARE SLIGHTLY DISHEVELLED.

AMY
Anything?

LUCY
Nothing. You?

AMY
Nothing. Where are they!

LUCY
God knows!

AMY STAMPS HER FOOT.

AMY
Bother! Bother! Bother!!

50. EXT. WOODED AREA DUSK

MATT AND GLEN ARE ENTERING THE SCHOOL GROUND.

GLEN
I’m going home. I’ve had enough of that woman.

MATT
Amen to that.

MATT TAKES A SWIG FROM GLEN’S FLASK, PASSES IT ON TO GLEN WHO TAKES A SWIG AND PASSES IT BACK TO MATT.

GLEN
Treating us like a couple of kids!

MATT
Hear hear.

51. INT. HOUSE DORMITORY DUSK

SOPHIE AND CHARLOTTE ARE SITTING ON THEIR RESPECTIVE BEDS.

SOPHIE
One more time …

CHARLOTTE
I know what to say!

SOPHIE
It has to be word perfect. You start.

52. EXT. PARKING LOT NIGHT

LUCY AND AMY WALK TOTALLY DISHEVELLED AND EXHAUSTED TOWARDS SILVER BIRCH HOUSE. CLARE, WITH HER LEFT ARM OUTSTRETCHED IN PLASTER AND HER NECK IN A BRACE, IS ABOUT TO STEP IN A WAITING TAXI WHEN SHE SEES THEM APPROACH.

CLARE
Good lord! Look at the state of you!

AMY
We have to resume the search first light Clare. No sign of the girls or Mr Parson.

LUCY
Mr Miller and Matt have disappeared as well.

CLARE
Has no one informed you?

AMY
Informed us about what?

CLARE
Everyone came back hours ago! I assume they all thought that you knew!

LUCY AND AMY LOOK IN DISBELIEF AT CLARE AND THEN AT EACH OTHER. IT CHANGES INTO ANGER WHEN REALISATION STRIKES.

53. INT. HOUSE APARTMENT LOUNGE NIGHT

CHARLOTTE AND SOPHIE HESITANTLY ENTER. AMY, SITTING ON A CHAIR, POINTS AT THE SOFA.

AMY
Sit!!

CHARLOTTE AND SOPHIE SIT DOWN.

AMY
Explain!

CHARLOTTE AND SOPHIE GIVE EACH OTHER A LOOK.

AMY
Now please!!

CHARLOTTE
We went looking for Mr Parson, Mrs Short …

SOPHIE
… We were very worried …

CHARLOTTE
… We couldn’t find him …

SOPHIE
… We paddled all the way back …

CHARLOTTE
… And back again …

SOPHIE
… We dived into the river …

CHARLOTTE
… And still we didn’t find him …

SOPHIE
… Then we saw that stream …

CHARLOTTE
… And we thought that maybe he was there …

SOPHIE
… We paddled all the way to the end …

CHARLOTTE
… Nothing …

SOPHIE
… Then we got lost …

CHARLOTTE
… We went up another stream …

SOPHIE
… We saw a crocodile …

CHARLOTTE
… That’s when we decided to land …

SOPHIE
… We were so scared, Mrs Short …

CHARLOTTE
… We thought that we were about to die …

SOPHIE
… And then Mr Parson found us …

CHARLOTTE
… We were so happy to see him …

SOPHIE
… And then Mr Parson brought us back to school.

CHARLOTTE AND SOPHIE LOOK HESITANTLY AT EACH OTHER AND THEN AT AMY. AMY RISES AND ANGRILY PACES THE FLOOR.

AMY
Well! That was well rehearsed! I don’t need to tell you what really happened, do I! I don’t need to tell you how you sneaked away for a secret drink, do I! And I certainly don’t need to tell you that everybody has been searching for you, do I! That the emergency services have been called out for nothing, do I! … Do I!

CHARLOTTE AND SOPHIE SHAKE THEIR HEADS. AMY HOLDS UP THE HALF EMPTY QUARTER SIZED VODKA BOTTLE.

AMY
What were you thinking of!! Drinking vodka at your age!!

CHARLOTTE AND SOPHIE
Sorry Mrs Short.

AMY
Sorry is not good enough!

SOPHIE BEGINS TO CRY.

AMY
And those crocodile tears will not help you either! Now, get to your dorm! It will be detention for both of you for three weeks and I shall be informing your parents about this!

SOPHIE AND CHARLOTTE
Please Mrs Short, not detention! We are really very sorry!

AMY
Would you rather be suspended? I can arrange that!

SOPHIE AND CHARLOTTE DUMBFOUNDED SHAKE THEIR HEADS.

AMY
No? Good! Now, get out of my sight!!

CHARLOTTE AND SOPHIE SCUTTLE HASTILY TO THE DOOR.

SOPHIE
This is so unfair!

CHARLOTTE
We got off lightly.

SOPHIE
Three weeks!

CHARLOTTE
Do you still like her angry?

SOPHIE
No-oooo …

THEY OPEN THE DOOR AND WALK PAST ADAM, WHO IS ABOUT TO KNOCK ON THE DOOR.

ADAM
All’s well that ends well, what?

AMY
What were you thinking of!!

ADAM
Pardon?

AMY
I was out of my mind with worry and you took them back to school! Why didn’t you wait at the riverbank! Why didn’t you inform me of your return!

ADAM
My dear girl …

AMY
Oh no! No no no no. Don’t you dear girl me! It was irresponsible! You didn’t think!

ADAM
Who would think in my position dear girl! I was soaked through! I nearly drowned … Come to think of it, that would have made a scandal, what? I can see the headlines in the local rag. Mrs Short, PE teacher at local boarding school lets Maths teacher loose on the river with no canoeing experience.

AMY
You are the most insufferable, arrogant …

ADAM
Steady on dear girl! You’ll give yourself a nervous breakdown!

AMY
… And pompous man I have ever set eyes on and I shall report your irresponsible behaviour to the Head!

ADAM
Not to bother dear girl, that’s all taken care of.

AMY
I … I … I …

ADAM
I shall let myself out, what?

ADAM EXITS QUICKLY AND AMY, INFURIATED, THROWS A VASE AT THE DOOR.

54. INT. HOUSE ANTOINETTE’S ROOM NIGHT

ANTOINETTE CAREFULLY SEALS A BROWN ENVELOPE ADDRESSED TO MRS PITT.

55. EXT. PARKING LOT NIGHT

ADAM UNLOCKS HIS CAR AND THEN LIGHTS HIS PIPE. CHRISTINE WALKS TOWARDS HIM.

CHRISTINE
Mr Parson!

ADAM LOOKS UP.

ADAM
Ah, Glen’s filly.

CHRISTINE REACHES HIM.

CHRISTINE
I did what you asked me this morning.

ADAM
Good girl!

CHRISTINE
I found this on the Internet. It’s most interesting. I’ve printed it out for you.

CHRISTINE GIVES HIM THE PRINTOUT.

ADAM
Thank you.

CHRISTINE
Am I off the hook?

ADAM
For now.

CHRISTINE
Thank you Mr Parson.

CHRISTINE WALKS AWAY. ADAM GIVES A SHORT DISMISSIVE WAVE. HE GLANCES AT THE PRINTOUT BEFORE HE OPENS HIS CAR DOOR. HE SUDDENLY STOPS STILL.

ADAM
Well, well, Miss Lucy Brown, what secrets have you got?

FREEZE FRAME

END OF EPISODE TWO.

Episode Two: The Searchers (part five)

2008-02-27T07:03:00.000-08:00

41. INT. SHED SAY

GLEN BLINKS INTO THE LIGHT. THE LOCK IS BROKEN. THE DOOR IS OPEN.

GLEN
You took your time!

MATT
The flipping lock was stronger than I thought.

GLEN
Right. See you.

GLEN STARTS TO WALK AWAY. MATT STOPS HIM.

MATT
Oh no you don’t. With respect Mr Miller, show me your bed and tell me who you share it with.

GLEN
Excuse me!!!

MATT PUSHES HIM TOWARDS THE BACK. AS THEY TALK THEY MOVE DEEPER INTO THE SHED.

MATT
I know it’s there! You’re not having an affair with Clare are you?

GLEN
With Frump!! Good god man, have you gone mad? I wouldn’t touch her with a barge pole!

MATT
Don’t you talk about her like that! She’s a good woman, she is!

GLEN
I’d rather sleep with an old boiler!

MATT
You do just that then … Now tell me, who is she!

GLEN
What are you talking about!

MATT
Mr Parson thinks that it’s my bed. I just want to put the record straight!

GLEN
What bed!!

THEY HAVE REACHED GLEN’S DEN.

MATT
That … … Bed … … Where is it?

GLEN
There is, and there never was, a stupid bed!

MATT LOOKS BEWILDERED AT GLEN AND THE SPACE WHERE THE DEN ONCE WAS.

MATT
I … I don’t understand!

GLEN
Satisfied now are we?

MATT
I suppose …

MATT AND GLEN HEAR CHRISTINE CALL OUT.

CHRISTINE OOV
Glen! … Glen! … Are you in our bed!!

MATT TURNS TO GLEN WITH AN ACCUSING LOOK ON HIS FACE AND POINTED INDEX FINGER. GLEN HOLDS UP HIS ARMS IN DEFENCE.

42. EXT. RIVERBANK DAY

SOPHIE AND CHARLOTTE ARE SHOCKED BY THE PRESENCE OF A SOAKED ADAM.

SOPHIE CHARLOTTE
Mr Parson!! Mr Parson!!

ADAM
Got you, what?

SOPHIE
It’s not what it looks like Mr Parson!

CHARLOTTE
We got lost!

SOPHIE
We were waiting for Mrs Short to find us!

CHARLOTTE
We were so scared!

SOPHIE
We’re so happy to see you!

ADAM PICKS UP THE HALF EMPTY QUARTER SIZED VODKA BOTTLE AND HOLDS IT HIGH.

SOPHIE
That’s to keep us warm!

CHARLOTTE
Yeah! We are freezing!

ADAM
Are you now.

SOPHIE
We really are, Mr Parson!

ADAM
Right.

ADAM PUFFS ON HIS PIPE, OBSERVING THE FRIGHTENED GIRLS AND WAVES THEM ON.

ADAM
Come on …

SOPHIE
Where to?

ADAM
Back to the school and a visit to the Headmaster.

SOPHIE CHARLOTTE
Please Mr Parson! Please Mr Parson!
Not the Headmaster! We will be good!

ADAM GIVES THEM A FRIGHTENING LOOK. THE GIRLS SHUT UP AND MISERABLY WALK AHEAD OF ADAM. ADAM PUFFS SATISFIED ON HIS PIPE AND FOLLOWS THEM INTO THE WOODS.

43. INT. HOUSE OFFICE DAY

MO PUTS HER COAT ON. SHE FEELS SOMETHING IN HER POCKET AND TAKES OUT THE SHED KEY. MO HOLDS UP THE KEY AND IN TOTAL BEWILDERMENT STUDIES IT. SHE OPENS A DRAWER, WHICH IS FULL OF AN ASSORTMENT OF KEYS. MO PUTS THE SHED’S KEY WITH THE OTHERS, SHUTS IT, PUTS THE ANSWERING MACHINE ON AND EXITS.

44. EXT. ON THE RIVER SAY

HELICOPTERS ARE FLYING OVERHEAD AND MEN ARE SEARCHING THE REED BEDS. GLEN AND MATT, IN A DOUBLE CANOE, COME PADDLING TOWARDS AMY.

GLEN
Robin Bragg sent us. Any news?

AMY
Nothing.

MATT, AT THE BACK, STANDS UP AND MAKES THE CANOE WOBBLE.

GLEN
Steady on Matt, or we’ll be where they are!

AMY
Glen!! How can you be so insensitive!!

GLEN
Oops … Slip of the tongue …

GLEN TURNS THE CANOE WITH A NIFTY LITTLE STROKE OF HIS PADDLE. MATT IS TAKEN OFF GUARD AND, NEARLY FALLING OVERBOARD, GRABS HOLD OF GLEN AROUND THE WASTE.

GLEN
Will you stop that!!

MATT
Sorry Mr Miller …

AMY
Where did you learn that? Why didn’t they send you, instead of that useless Adam?

MATT
Good question!!

GLEN
I was indisposed!

LUCY COMES PADDLING TOWARDS THEM.

LUCY
Amy, I heard! Is there anything that I can do?

AMY
Keep looking. They must be somewhere!

LUCY
Where did you see them last?

AMY
Somewhere around here! Glen, you and Matt search there!

LUCY
I shall go that way!

AMY’S MOBILE RINGS AND SHE ANSWERS IT IMMEDIATELY.

AMY
… What colour? … … Thank you!

MATT, GLEN AND LUCY WATCH AMY FULL OF EXPECTATION AS SHE DISCONNECTS.

AMY
They’ve found Adam’s canoe upside down in a tributary!

LUCY
Adam?

AMY
No.

GLEN
What tributary Matt?

MATT
I don’t know!

GLEN
You said that you knew this river like the back of your hand!

AMY
Stop arguing! I know where it is! Follow on!!

45. EXT. WOODED AREA DAY

ADAM, WET, AND CHARLOTTE AND SOPHIE HAVE REACHED THE SCHOOL GROUNDS. THEY ARE WATCHING HELICOPTERS FLYING LOW IN CIRCLES, FURTHER AWAY, WITH INTEREST.

ADAM
They’re probably searching for an escaped prisoner.

CHARLOTTE
A prisoner!

SOPHIE
What! Nearby!

ADAM LIGHTS HIS PIPE AND SMILES.

ADAM
Not to worry. It’s an open prison for naughty Lords and such likes. Let’s see if the Headmaster is in.

SOPHIE
Please Mr Parson! Not the headmaster!

CHARLOTTE
We’ll do anything, honest!

ADAM
You’re a bit young for that, what? Come on.

46. INT. HOUSE ANTOINETTE’S ROOM DAY

ANTOINETTE HAS PUT A CHAIR UNDER THE DOOR HANDLE. SHE CUTS OUT LETTERS FROM A NEWSPAPER. ON A PIECE OF PAPER A LINE BEGINS ‘I KNOW IT IS YOU WHO BLABBED’.

Episode Two: The Searchers (part four)

2008-02-21T06:17:00.000-08:00

25. INT. RECEPTION DAY

CLARE SORTS THE POST AS BEST AS SHE CAN WITH HER LEFT ARM OUTSTRETCHED IN PLASTER AND HER NECK IN A BRACE. MATT MEEKLY ENTERS.

CLARE
What do you want!

MATT
A cuddle. I miss you. I hate it when you’re cross with me. Come on.

CLARE
You don’t deserve one. Go away.

MATT
Please … I love you.

CLARE, SURPRISED, TURNS.

CLARE
Dear god! You have gone insane!

MATT
I haven’t been close to my playmates for a while now.

CLARE
Ah. That’s what you’re after.

CLARE, DISMISSIVE, TURNS BACK TO HER POST.

MATT
One little cuddle, that’s all.

MATT INCHES HIS WAY TO WHERE THE MASTER KEY HANGS.

CLARE
No.

SHE TURNS AND SEES MATT INCHING HIS WAY AT THE MASTER KEY.

CLARE
Stay right there!

MATT
What?

CLARE
You don’t want me! You’re after that key again!

MATT
Ok, ok. You’ve got me. I lost my key and the shed is locked.

CLARE
And you thought that I wouldn’t give you that key?

MATT
Well no!

CLARE
Oh, poor man!

MATT
Eh?

CLARE
Of course you can have that key.

MATT
Really?

CLARE
At lunchtime! With my hand firmly around it! Do you really think that I’m stupid enough to trust you with the master key? Oh no, no, no, no!

MATT
But …

CLARE
I’ll open your precious shed when I see fit. Now get out!

26. EXT. SHED SAY

MATT STANDS BY THE LOCKED DOOR.

MATT
She wont let me have it Mr Miller.

GLEN OOV
Oh bugger! That woman doesn’t know her arse from her elbow!

MATT
I pretend that I didn’t hear that and you better stay at the back.

GLEN OOV
Why!

MATT
She’s coming to unlock the door soon and she’d better not see you. By the way, what are you doing in there?

GLEN OOV
None of your business!

MATT
It’s going to be my business soon! Is that bed at the back yours?

GLEN
Stop talking through your neck man! What bed!

27. EXT. ON THE RIVER DAY

SOPHIE AND CHARLOTTE PADDLE THEIR CANOES AROUND THE BEND AND CALL OUT.

SOPHIE
Mr Parson!!

CHARLOTTE
Where are you!!

SOPHIE
Hello-o!!!

THE RIVER IN FRONT OF THEM IS EMPTY.

CHARLOTTE
Well, he’s not here.

SOPHIE
He’s gone back to school I reckon.

CHARLOTTE
Mr Parson!!!!

SOPHIE
He didn’t like canoeing anyway.

THEY TURN THEIR CANOES.

CHARLOTTE
We’d better tell Mrs Short.

SOPHIE SEES THE TRIBUTARY.

SOPHIE
Come!

CHARLOTTE
What?

SOPHIE
Let’s have a look what’s there!

THEY TURN INTO THE TRIBUTARY.

CHARLOTTE
Hey … This is fantastic!

SOPHIE
There … That’s a good place to land!

CHARLOTTE
What for?

SOPHIE HOLDS UP A QUARTER SIZE VODKA BOTTLE. CHARLOTTE DIGS UP A PACKET OF SWEETS AND HOLDS IT HIGH. THEY LAUGH AND LAND THEIR CANOES.

28. EXT. SHED DAY

MATT SITS LEANING AGAINST THE SHED. HE HEARS NOISES FROM INSIDE.

MATT
Mr Miller! Are you alright!

29. INT. SHED DUSK

GLEN RUNS TO THE DOOR.

GLEN
I’m exercising!!

GLEN RUNS BACK AND CONTINUOUS DISMANTLING HIS DEN.

30. INT. HOUSE OFFICE DAY

MO PUTS THE TELEPHONE RECEIVER DOWN AND LOOKS UP AT ANTOINETTE STANDING IN THE DOORWAY.

MO
Yes?

31. UNDER THE CANOE IN THE WATER.

ADAM, WILD EYED AND PIPE CLAMPED BETWEEN HIS TEETH, HANGS ON FOR DEAR LIFE TO THE SEAT OF THE CANOE WHILST IT RAPIDLY MOVES ALONG THE CURRENT.

32. EXT. RIVERBANK DAY

AMY AND EIGHT GIRLS, ALEXANDRA AMONGST THEM, ARE OUT OF THEIR CANOES, AWAY FROM THE RIVER. THE CANOES ARE DRAGGED ONTO THE RIVERBANK.

AMY
Line up! Headcount!

THE GIRLS LINE UP.

AMY
Who’s missing? Where is Mr Parson? Alexandra, walk back and see if they are on their way.

ALEXANDRA WALKS TOWARDS THE RIVERSIDE.

AMY
Right. Sit down!

THE GIRLS SIT DOWN. AMY TAKES HER BAG AND OPENS IT.

AMY
Who wants hot chocolate?

THE GIRLS PUT UP THEIR HANDS. AMY BEGINS TO POUR HOT CHOCOLATE FROM A FLASK INTO PLASTIC CUPS. ALEXANDRA RETURNS.

ALEXANDRA
I can’t see them, Mrs Short.

AMY
Pardon?

ALEXANDRA
They’re not there!

AMY
They must be!

ALEXANDRA
No they’re not!

AMY WALKS TOWARDS THE RIVERSIDE, FOLLOWED BY ALEXANDRA. THEY LOOK TO THE LEFT, STRETCHING THEIR NECKS.

AMY
I’m sure they will appear any minute now.

ALEXANDRA
Mrs Short?

AMY
Yes?

ALEXANDRA HESITATES.

AMY
Come on girl. Spit it out!

ALEXANDRA
Charlotte and Sophie aren’t wearing their lifejackets.

AMY
Don’t be silly. Of course they are!

ALEXANDRA
No they’re not!

AMY
I saw them put them on!

ALEXANDRA
They hid them under some equipment. Honestly Mrs Short, I’m not making it up! I told them they were stupid, but they didn’t listen to me!

AMY
Oh dear god. Come on!

AMY AND ALEXANDRA WALK BACK TO THE HOT CHOCOLATE DRINKING GIRLS.

AMY
All right! Pack up! We’re going back!

33. EXT. SHED DAY

MATT SEES CLARE, WEARING A NECK BRACE AND HER LEFT ARM OUTSTRETCHED IN PLASTER, COME MARCHING TOWARDS THE SHED.

MATT
She’s here!! Stay at the back!!

34. INT. SHED DUSK

GLEN RUNS TO THE DOOR FROM THE BACK.

GLEN
What?

35. EXT. SHED DAY

MATT
She’s here!!

36. INT. SHED DUSK

GLEN
Blast!!

GLEN RUNS BACK TO HIS DISMANTLED DEN. HE TAKES A QUICK SWIG FROM HIS FLASK AND HOLDS HIS BREATH.

37. EXT. SHED DAY

CLARE, WEARING A NECK BRACE AND HER LEFT ARM OUTSTRETCHED IN PLASTER, MASTER KEY IN HER HAND, HAS REACHED MATT.

CLARE
Who are you talking to?

MATT
Aaah … Just muttering to myself my dear.

CLARE
I see. We’ve gone slightly insane, have we?

CLARE LOOKS AT THE LOCK.

CLARE
That’s not a Yale lock! The master key wont open that!

MATT
Now what!

CLARE
Kick the door in! Then repair the lock! At least that’s something you can do!

CLARE STOMPS AWAY.

MATT
Why didn’t I think of that?

38. EXT. RIVERBANK DAY

ADAM SCRAMBLES ONTO THE RIVERBANK. HIS CANOE DRIFTS AWAY INTO THE DISTANCE. ADAM TAKES HIS LIFE JACKET OFF. HE KNOCKS OUT HIS PIPE. HE TAKES HIS TOBACCO TIN FROM HIS POCKET AND ANXIOUSLY OPENS IT. TO HIS RELIEF THE TOBACCO IS DRY. HE FILLS HIS PIPE AND TAKES HIS LIGHTER FROM THE TOBACCO TIN. LIGHTING HIS PIPE, HE TAKES HIS BEARINGS AND, PUFFING IN DELIGHT, HE WALKS AWAY FOLLOWING THE RIVER BANK FROM WHERE HE CAME.

39. INT. HOUSE MAIN AREA DAY

ROSIE, WITH HER RIGHT FOOT BARE, AND MAGGIE CHECK THE LIST THAT THEY HAVE MADE.

ROSIE
Light bulb in Brasch, light bulb in Conran, cupboard door in Adair …

MAGGIE
… Bedside cabinet in Warner, blown up vacuum cleaner, Conran’s fire door …

ROSIE
… And the dripping tap, wobbly toilet in Dale, broken mirror in Dale …

MAGGIE
… Cracked basin in Marr …

ROSIE
… Faulty toaster, Loose wire on the bedside light in room nine …

MAGGIE
… And last but not least, cracked tiles in Conran’s bathroom.

ROSIE
Blooming Henry!

MAGGIE
And … Burn marks on Ant’s desk.

MAGGIE SCRIBBLES THIS DOWN ON THE LIST.

ROSIE
Shall we write it down in alphabetical order?

MAGGIE
And make it easier for Mo? Let’s make her work for a change.

THEY WALK TOWARDS MO’S OFFICE AS MO WALKS OUT.

ROSIE
We’ve made a repair list.

MAGGIE GIVES MO THE LIST.

MO
I see. Who asked you to do that?

MAGGIE AND ROSIE LOOK AT EACH OTHER.

MAGGIE
Amy. She noticed a few things.

ROSIE
She knows how busy you are.

MO
Right …

MO READS THE LIST.

MO
Oh, she’s reported that!

MAGGIE
Who reported what?

MO
Antoinette. She’s most sorry and will ask her parents to pay for the damages. She’s a reformed character, that one. Ever so polite … I’ll phone Matt now. Thank you. I shall let Amy know that everything will be done.

MO WALKS BACK TO HER OFFICE. MAGGIE AND ROSIE GIVE EACH OTHER A LOOK.

ROSIE
I’ll bet you, that she is going to take all the credit for our hard work.

40. EXT. RIVERBANK DAY

CHARLOTTE AND SOPHIE ARE SITTING COMFORTABLY. THEIR CANOES HAVE BEEN DRAGGED UP THE RIVERBANK. SOPHIE SWIGS OCCASIONALLY FROM HER QUARTER SIZE VODKA BOTTLE WHILST CHARLOTTE INDULGES IN HER SWEETS, CARELESSLY SCATTERING WRAPPERS.

CHARLOTTE
Shall we go back? They must be missing us by now.

SOPHIE
A little longer. It’s so peaceful here.

CHARLOTTE
We could get into trouble.

SOPHIE
Who cares!

CHARLOTTE
Well …

SOPHIE
Do you?

CHARLOTTE
I like Mrs Short. I don’t want to upset her.

SOPHIE
I like seeing her all red and flustered.

CHARLOTTE
Do you?

SOPHIE
Yeah … Like that night when she was furious with Ant. If she can get away with things, so can I.

CHARLOTTE
Ant’s parents are very rich.

SOPHIE
Mine too. Are yours?

CHARLOTTE
I don’t think that they could afford to pay an extra ten thousand pounds.

SOPHIE
Mine could. I’m becoming like Antoinette. She’s my hero.

SUDDENLY TWO HANDS GRAB SOPHIE AND ALEXANDRA BY THE SCRUFF OF THEIR NECKS.

Episode Two: The Searchers (part three)

2008-02-17T04:41:00.000-08:00

17. INT. RECEPTION DAY

CLARE, WEARING A NECK BRACE AND HER LEFT ARM OUTSTRETCHED IN A PLASTER, ANGRILY SNATCHES THE TELEPHONE RECEIVER FROM MATT.

CLARE
I am so sorry Mrs Carlisle, I’m afraid that you had the wrong person … Oh no, absolutely not, that is just a silly rumour going around … No, there is no truth in the matter whatsoever … I am pleased to have set the record straight … Thank you Mrs Carlisle.

CLARE PRESSES A BUTTON, PUTS THE RECEIVER DOWN AND TURNS SEETHING TO MATT.

CLARE
What on earth were you thinking!!

MATT
Well …

CLARE
First the post in the wrong pigeonholes! Then you answer the phone ‘Hello, Matt Baker speaking’! And then, to top it all, you ask Mrs Carlisle all those questions!!

MATT
What else could I do! I didn’t know about the extra ten thousand pounds!

CLARE
It doesn’t matter if you know things or not! You put callers through to the right person! You are such a buffoon!!

MATT
Alright! I’m sorry! I wont do it again! But tell me, is it true that Antoinette’s parents pay all that money just to keep her here?

CLARE
Out!!!

CLARE STOMPS TO THE DOOR AND OPENS IT WIDE.

MATT
I can’t go! I’m here to help you!

CLARE
Help me! You are a hindrance! Get out!

MATT
But …

CLARE
Out!!!

WITH A SIGH MATT RESIGNS AND WITH A HANGDOG LOOK WALKS OUT.

18. EXT. SHED SAY

MATT ARRIVES AND FINDS THE DOOR CLOSED. HE TRIES TO OPEN IT AND SEES THAT THE KEY IS MISSING. HE RATTLES THE DOOR HANDLE.

MATT
What the flip!!

GLEN OOV
Is that you Matt?

MATT
Mr Miller? What are you doing in there?

GLEN OOV
Someone locked me in!

MATT
Who!

GLEN OOV
I can’t as yet see through closed doors! Let me out!

MATT
The key’s gone!

GLEN OOV
Haven’t you got a spare!

MATT
No!

GLEN OOV
Get the master key then man!

MATT
You don’t know how much trouble I got into the last time I took that key, do you!!

GLEN OOV
Just get me out of here! Hurry up man!!

MATT
Oh, flipping heck!

19. INT. HOUSE COMPUTER ROOM DAY

CHRISTINE SITS IN FRONT OF ONE OF FIVE COMPUTERS, SURFING THE NET. SHE SUDDENLY STOPS AND GOES BACK A PAGE. THE PAGE SHOWS A STUDENT GROUP PHOTOGRAPH. CHRISTINE READS THE NAMES OF THE STUDENTS, COMPARES THE NAMES WITH THE PHOTOGRAPH AND REALIZES THAT SOMETHING IS NOT AS IT SEEMS.

CHRISTINE
My, my! …

SHE COMPARES AGAIN.

CHRISTINE
That is interesting …

ANTOINETTE ENTERS. CHRISTINE QUICKLY CLICKS OFF THE PAGE.

ANTOINETTE
Do you know where Maggie is?

CHRISTINE
No. Why?

ANTOINETTE
I need to know how to remove candle fat from the carpet.

CHRISTINE
My, we are getting domesticated.

ANTOINETTE
Yeah, yeah …

ANTOINETTE EXITS AND CHRISTINE CLICKS THE PAGE BACK ON.

20. INT. HOUSE ANTOINETTE’S ROOM DAY

MAGGIE, SQUATTING BESIDE HER, INSTRUCTS ANTOINETTE, ON HER KNEES WITH A HOT IRON AND GREASEPROOF PAPER.

MAGGIE
Put the paper over the fat and put the hot iron on it.

ANTOINETTE
Like this?

MAGGIE
Keep moving the iron … And again on a clean piece … Good, keep going until it’s all gone. Have you reported the burn marks?

ANTOINETTE
Can’t you make it disappear?

MAGGIE
I wish I could.

THEY SUDDENLY HEAR A MUFFLED EXPLOSION FROM THE FIRST YEAR CORRIDOR.

ANTOINETTE
What was that!

21. INT. FIRST YEAR CORRIDOR DAY

MAGGIE AND ANTOINETTE WALK INTO THE CORRIDOR AND FIND ROSIE, RIGHT FOOT BARE, STANDING NEXT TO A SMOKING VACUUM CLEANER. SHE IS COVERED IN DUST AND DIRT FROM THE TORN BAG.

ANTOINETTE
Cool!

MAGGIE
What happened!

ROSIE
(Coughing and sneezing) It blew up!

MAGGIE
I knew it wasn’t right! Not pat tested for years!

ROSIE
Why didn’t you tell Mo?

MAGGIE
I did! Last week!

ROSIE
The cow forgot, didn’t she!

MAGGIE
Right! That’s it! Let’s go and see her.

22. INT. HOUSE MAIN AREA DAY

ROSIE, COVERED IN DUST, HER RIGHT FOOT BARE, AND MAGGIE WALK ANGRILY TOWARDS MO’S OFFICE. THE DOOR IS OPEN AND THEY STOP WHEN THEY HEAR MO SPEAKING ON THE PHONE.

MO
… I know … Yes, ha-ha-ha … Oooooh, I heard that! … Oh Lisa, by the way, I never told you about that money … No … They mustn’t find out that it was me … Yes … What ten thousand? Ha-ha-ha … I deny all knowledge of course … You do the same? … Wonderful …

MAGGIE AND ROSIE’S JAW DROP WHEN THEY HEAR THIS. THEY LOOK IN UTTER DISBELIEF AT EACH OTHER.

23. EXT. ON THE RIVER DAY

ADAM, PIPE CLAMPED BETWEEN HIS TEETH, IS COPING WITH THE CANOE AND HE BEGINS TO ENJOY HIMSELF. CHARLOTTE TURNS HER CANOE WITH A NIFTY STROKE AND PADDLES TOWARDS HIM. SOPHIE SLOWLY PADDLES ON.

CHARLOTTE
Are you alright Mr Parson?

ADAM
getting the hang of it, what?

CHARLOTTE
We’ll have a rest soon.

ADAM
Excellent.

CHARLOTTE
See you later.

CHARLOTTE TURNS HER CANOE, QUICKLY MOVES AWAY AND JOINS SOPHIE. ADAM TAKES A BREAK TO LIGHT HIS PIPE. CHARLOTTE AND SOPHIE DISAPPEAR AROUND A BEND IN THE RIVER. ADAM HAS SEEN CHARLOTTE’S NIFTY TURN AND HE TRIES THE SAME. OVER CONFIDENT HE CAPSIZES THE CANOE. THE RIVER’S CURRENT TAKES THE CANOE AWAY FROM THE MIDDLE AND STEERS IT TOWARDS A TRIBUTARY. THERE IS NO SIGN OF ADAM.

24. INT. HOUSE FIRST YEAR CORRIDOR DAY

ROSIE, COVERED IN DUST, RIGHT FOOT BARE, AND MAGGIE STAND OPPOSITE EACH OTHER LEANING AGAINST THE WALLS.

ROSIE
Well, now we know.

MAGGIE
It makes sense now. Her avoiding the subject.

ROSIE
Shall we tell Amy? After all if the stupid cow had kept her mouth shut, Amy would not be in so much trouble.

MAGGIE
I don’t know … How did Mo get the information? Maybe Amy did tell her.

ROSIE
She can’t be as stupid as that.

MAGGIE
We know what Mo’s like. That doesn’t mean that Amy does.

ROSIE
That idiot. It must have been confidential information.

MAGGIE
I can just hear her. (mimics) Lisa, did you know about Antoinette? Yes, her parents pay an extra ten thousand pounds, just to keep her here … Ha-ha-ha.

ROSIE
Lisa spreads the word and before you can say Bob’s your uncle, everybody knows.

MAGGIE
We should inform the Headmaster.

ROSIE
You must be joking. A snob like him? He doesn’t even know that we exist!

MAGGIE
What about the Bursar?

ROSIE
Robin Bragg? He wants proof!

MAGGIE
You’re right. There’s not a lot that we can do. Let’s hope that it sorts itself out.

AROUND THE CORNER, TO HER DELIGHT, ANTOINETTE OVERHEARS EVERY WORD.

Episode Two: The Searchers (part two)

2008-02-10T07:32:00.000-08:00

4. INT. HOUSE DORMITORY DAY

ROSIE FINISHES CLEANING THE DOUBLE BASIN AND IS ABOUT TO ENTER THE BATHROOM WHEN MO ENTERS THE DORM. THE DORM’S FLOOR IS STREWN WITH CLOTHING.

MO
What a mess!

ROSIE
It’s like this every morning. The brats have servants to do it for them.

MO WALKS ON, PICKING UP ITEMS OF CLOTHING.

MO
Will they ever learn!

ROSIE
Is it true about Antoinette?

MO
How do you know?

ROSIE
Everybody’s talking about it … Is it?

MO
Of course not. What’s wrong with this tap?

ROSIE
Nobody knows who made the story up.

MO
She will never be found.

ROSIE
She? You know it’s a woman?

MO
Or he. Who knows? Why is this tap dripping?

ROSIE
It has done that for months. I reported it to you.

MO
Did you? When?

ROSIE
You said that you would get Matt to have a look at it.

MO
Of course. Matt must have forgotten. I shall remind him.

MO WALKS BACK TO THE DORMITORY DOOR AND OPENS IT.

MO
This door is very stiff.

ROSIE
It doesn’t close properly.

MO
It’s a fire door! You should have told me!

ROSIE
I did! I told you last term!

MO LOOKS IN DISBELIEVE AT ROSIE AND EXITS.

ROSIE
Stupid cow.

5. INT. ANTOINETTE’S ROOM DAY

MAGGIE PUTS A WEDGE UNDER ANTOINETTE’S DOOR AND ENTERS WITH A BLACK BIN LINER. SHE DROPS THE LINER, WALKS TO THE WINDOW, OPENS THE CURTAINS AND SEES A LARGE BURN MARK ON THE DESK.

MAGGIE
Blimey!

SHE THEN SEES HUGE PATCHES OF CANDLE FAT ON THE CARPET. ANTOINETTE ENTERS AND MAGGIE POINTS ACCUSINGLY AT THE MARKS.

MAGGIE
Ant?

ANTOINETTE
Oh that.

MAGGIE
I will have to report this.

ANTOINETTE
Why?

MAGGIE
I’m in big trouble if Mrs Pitt or Mrs Short sees this. You know that you are not allowed candles!

ANTOINETTE
Stupid rules.

MAGGIE
They are still rules.

ANTOINETTE
I’ll sort it.

MAGGIE
You’d better!

ANTOINETTE
I said I’d sort it!

MAGGIE
I’ll give you two hours.

ANTOINETTE
Whatever.

MAGGIE EMPTIES A BIN IN THE BLACK BIN LINER, TAKES THE WEDGE FROM UNDERNEATH THE DOOR AND EXITS.

ANTOINETTE
Stupid cow.

6. INT. HOUSE COMPUTER ROOM DAY

CHRISTINE SITS IN FRONT OF ONE OF THE FIVE COMPUTERS, SURFING THE NET.

7. INT. RECEPTION DAY

MATT ENTERS SECEPTION AND HIS JAW DROPS.

8. EXT. RIVERBANK DAY

AMY AND TEN THIRTEEN-YEAR-OLD GIRLS ARE GATHERED ON THE RIVERBANK. SOPHIE, ALEXANDRA AND CHARLOTTE ARE AMONGST THE GIRLS. TWELVE CANOES ARE READY. AMY LOOKS AT HER WATCH. SHE TAKES HER MOBILE FROM HER POCKET AND PUNCHES A NUMBER.

9. EXT. HILLTOP DAY

LUCY’S MOBILE PHONE RINGS AND SHE LOOKS AT THE NAME DISPLAYED. SHE WALKS AWAY FROM THE GROUP OF EIGHTEEN-YEAR-OLD BOYS AND GIRLS, WORKING ON A DIG, AND ANSWERS THE CALL.

LUCY
I told you never to ring this number … Not now … I could be sacked instantly … Phone me tonight on the landline …
No, I can’t speak now … No!

SHE DISCONNECTS AND SWITCHES HER MOBILE OFF.

10. INT. HOUSE KITCHEN DAY

ROSIE IS MOPPING THE KITCHEN FLOOR. MAGGIE IS PREPARING COFFEE FOR THEIR BREAK.

ROSIE
The way she looked at me! As if I was lying! I always report breakages!!

MAGGIE
It’s all very strange.

ROSIE
Stupid cow.

MAGGIE
I can’t quite put two and two together yet.

ROSIE
Eh?

MAGGIE
This thing with Antoinette!

ROSIE
What about it?

MAGGIE
You know what Mo’s like. The first to gloat when someone’s in trouble.

ROSIE
You’re right! Not a single peep. Not one word of gossip.

MAGGIE
You’d think that you would get the full story from her.

ROSIE
She knows it’s a woman.

MAGGIE
Does she?

ROSIE
She let it slip and then quickly covered it up.

MAGGIE
Mmmmmm …

ROSIE STEPS ON THE MOP TO GET AS MUCH WATER OUT OF IT AS POSSIBLE. HER FOOT SLIPS AND DROPS INTO THE WATER.

ROSIE
Shit!!

11. EXT. RIVERBANK DAY

AMY AND THE TEN THIRTEEN-YEAR-OLD GIRLS ARE WAITING ON THE RIVERBANK. CHARLOTTE, SOPHIE AND ALEXANDRA ARE AMONGST THEM. TWELVE CANOES ARE READY.

AMY
All right you lot! Get your lifejackets on. The supply teacher will be here soon!

THE GIRLS BEGIN TO PUT THEIR LIFEJACKETS ON. AMY WALKS AWAY, LOOKING FOR THE SUPPLY TEACHER.

CHARLOTTE
I hate those jackets.

ALEXANDRA
You have to wear one. Just in case.

CHARLOTTE
I can swim!

ALEXANDRA
So?

CHARLOTTE
I don’t need it.

ALEXANDRA
You’re crazy not to wear one.

CHARLOTTE
I pretend that it’s under my jumper.

SOPHIE
I’ll do the same.

ALEXANDRA
You’re both mad as hatters.

ALEXANDRA WALKS TO THE OTHER GIRLS. CHARLOTTE AND SOPHIE TAKE THEIR LIFEJACKETS OFF AND HIDE THEM UNDER SOME EQUIPMENT. AMY SEES SOMEONE WALKING TOWARDS HER.

AMY
Hello there! This way!

ADAM, PIPE IN HIS MOUTH, SAUNTERS TOWARDS HER.

ADAM
At your service, what?

AMY
Oh dear god … Of all the teachers they could have sent me!

12. INT. RECEPTION DAY

CLARE, WITH A NECK BRACE AND HER LEFT ARM OUTSTRETCHED IN PLASTER, SITS OPPOSITE MATT.

MATT
You’re lucky to have survived the crash.

CLARE
I can’t do much.

MATT
That’s why I’m here. I must admit that I was slightly puzzled when I was told to drop everything and help you out.

THE TELEPHONE RINGS AND CLARE PICKS UP THE RECEIVER WITH HER RIGHT HAND. IT IS NOT HER USUAL HAND AND SHE IS SLIGHTLY AWKWARD.

CLARE
Good morning, Grindhirst School, how may I help you? … Certainly sir …

CLARE STEPS BACK TO PRESS A BUTTON WITH HER PLASTERED OUTSTRETCHED LEFT ARM. THE TELEPHONE CORD IS CAUGHT SHORT AND SHE CANNOT REACH THE BUTTONS.

CLARE
… Excuse me for a moment sir …

CLARE PUTS THE RECEIVER DOWN ON THE DESK, STEPS FORWARD AND PRESSES THE BUTTON WITH HER RIGHT HAND. SHE THEN HANGS UP.

MATT
This is no good! Let me answer the telephone for you.

CLARE
You must be polite …

MATT
I can do that.

CLARE
… Even with the most irate of callers.

THE TELEPHONE RINGS.

MATT
Watch and learn.

13. INT. SHED DAY

GLEN SITS IN HIS DEN WAITING FOR CHRISTINE. HE LOOKS AT HIS WATCH AND TAKES A SWIG FROM HIS FLASK.

GLEN
Come on Chrissie!

14. EXT. SHED DAY

MO, WITH HER ARMS FULL OF TOWELS, WALKS PAST THE SHED AND SEES THAT THE DOOR IS OPEN AND THE KEY LEFT IN THE DOOR.

MO
Most irresponsible!

MO CLOSES THE DOOR AND TURNS THE KEY, LOCKING THE DOOR. SHE PUTS THE KEY INTO HER POCKET AND WALKS AWAY.

15. INT. SHED DUSK

SURPRISED, GLEN NOTICES THE SUDDEN GLOOM IN THE SHED. HE WALKS TO THE DOOR AND FINDS IT LOCKED. HE RATTLES THE DOORHANDLE.

GLEN
Sugar … Sugar … Bugger!!

16. EXT. RIVERBANK DAY

ADAM WATCHES THE TEN THIRTEEN-YEAR-OLD GIRLS, INCLUDING SOPHIE, ALEXANDRA AND CHARLOTTE, AS THEY CLIMB INTO THEIR CANOES.

ADAM
Damn good show, what?

AMY
That’s yours.

SHE POINTS AT A CANOE. ADAM TAKES HIS PIPE FROM HIS MOUTH.

ADAM
You don’t expect me to go into one of those things, do you?

AMY
Of course!

ADAM
My dear girl, I’d rather walk.

AMY
Don’t be awkward.

ADAM
I’m not! I have never set foot in one of those in my life and I’m most certainly not planning to start now!

AMY
That’s why you are here! There is nothing to it. If thirteen-year-old girls can do it, you can.

ADAM PUTS HIS PIPE BACK IN HIS MOUTH AND SUCKS IT NOISILY.

AMY
Once you are in, you are quite safe, I assure you.

ADAM
You proceed. I will follow by foot.

AMY
You can’t do that! The river is full of twists and turns. In places it is quite deep. If you walk, you will have to swim across once or twice to keep up.

AMY HANDS ADAM A LIFEJACKET. ADAM WALKS TOWARDS HIS APPOINTED CANOE AND PRODS IT WITH HIS FOOT.

AMY
Put your lifejacket on. Charlotte! Sophie! Get out of your canoe and give me a hand!

ADAM RELUCTANTLY PUTS HIS LIFEJACKET ON. SOPHIE AND CHARLOTTE GET OUT OF THEIR CANOE.

SOPHIE
What do you want us to do, Mrs Short?

AMY
You hold the front and you, Charlotte, hold the rear. Keep it steady whilst Mr Parson gets in.

ADAM
I’m not at all sure about this!

AMY
Go on. Get in.

CHARLOTTE AND SOPHIE, STIFLING THEIR GIGGLES, HOLD THE CANOE STEADY AS AMY HELPS ADAM CLIMB IN. ADAM CLAMPS HIS PIPE BETWEEN HIS TEETH AND UNCERTAINLY CLIMBS IN. THE CANOE WOBBLES WHEN HE SITS DOWN.

AMY
Well? See? Nothing to it.

ADAM
Now what?

AMY
Pick up the paddle.

ADAM PICKS UP THE PADDLE AND STUDIES IT.

AMY
It’s not a pretty woman Mr Parson! Move it from side to side!

THE GIRLS SOFTLY GIGGLE. ADAM CAREFULLY MOVES THE PADDLE FROM SIDE TO SIDE.

ADAM
Like this?

AMY
Well done, Mr Parson! Let go girls!

THE CANOE SHOOTS FORWARDS.

AMY
Good!! Get in girls! Mr Parson, you can bring up the rear!

AMY, CHARLOTTE AND SOPHIE GET INTO THEIR CANOES.

ADAM
Let me be in the front! You can keep an eye on me there!

AMY PADDLES PAST HIM, CREATING LITTLE WAVES. THE GIRLS FOLLOW, CREATING MORE, MAKING THE CANOE WOBBLE.

AMY
I need to be in front! I know the river better than anyone! Follow on! Charlotte, keep an eye on Mr Parson!

AMY AND THE TEN GIRLS RAPIDLY PADDLE AWAY. ADAM, PIPE CLAMPED BETWEEN HIS TEETH, CAREFULLY DIPS THE PADDLE INTO THE RIVER. HE LOSES HIS BALANCE AND, TO HIS SHOCK, THE CANOE NEARLY CAPSIZES.

Episode Two: The Searchers (part one)

2008-02-04T11:09:00.000-08:00

1. INT. FLAT BEDROOM DAY

CHRISTINE AND GLEN ARE ASLEEP FACE-TO-FACE. CHRISTINE TURNS OVER. SHE OPENS HER EYES AND THE NUMBERS ON THE ALARM CLOCK SLOWLY COME INTO FOCUS. IT IS FIVE PAST EIGHT. CHRISTINE SUDDENLY SITS BOLT UPRIGHT, WAKING GLEN.

CHRISTINE
Shit!!!

GLEN
Mmmmblm what?

CHRISTINE
Mrs Short is going to kill me!!

GLEN
Come here.

GLEN PULLS HER BACK DOWN. CHRISTINE PUSHES HIM AWAY AND FLINGS HERSELF OUT OF BED.

CHRISTINE
Oh my god, oh my god! What do I do!!

GLEN
Calm down. We can think of something.

CHRISTINE
Calm down!! I could be expelled!!

CHRISTINE HASTILY DRESSES. GLEN SITS UP.

GLEN
Let me think.

CHRISTINE
Oh … My … God …

GLEN
Tell her … Tell her that you sleepwalk!

CHRISTINE
Yeah right. The door magically opens for sleepwalkers.

GLEN PUTS HIS PANTS AND TROUSERS ON.

GLEN
Just tell her. You can blame her for not being woken by the buzzer alarm.

CHRISTINE
She’s always woken by the alarm and so is that silly assistant.

GLEN
Well, this time she wasn’t. Go on make her feel guilty.

CHRISTINE
Or I can tell her the truth and get you sacked!!

GLEN
Oi, hold on. Who chased whom here?

CHRISTINE
I didn’t see you exactly struggle!

GLEN
Who could resist you eh?

HE KISSES HER. CHRISTINE PULLS AWAY.

CHRISTINE
Come on!! Give me an idea! What do I do!!

2. EXT. PARKING LOT DAY

ADAM LOCKS HIS CAR AND SEES CHRISTINE JOGGING TOWARDS HIM.

ADAM
That’s what I like to see. A filly in full gallop.

ADAM LIGHTS HIS PIPE AS CHRISTINE REACHES HIM.

CHRISTINE
Good morning Mr Parson!

ADAM
Good exercise what? …

HE WATCHES HER GO PAST.

ADAM
… Stop!

CHRISTINE STOPS AND TURNS.

ADAM
Whose trousers are you wearing?

CHRISTINE
Mine! Why?

ADAM
With that fly on your derriere?

CHRISTINE CHECKS HER TROUSERS AND SEES THAT SHE HAS THEM ON BACK TO FRONT.

ADAM
Overslept, did you?

CHRISTINE
I have no idea what you are talking about Mr Parson.

ADAM
Oh come on dear girl! I wasn’t born yesterday! Those are Glen’s old jogging trousers from his running days!

CHRISTINE
You’ve got it all wrong Mr Parson.

ADAM
Have I? Well then. You’d better explain why you are wearing his trousers, my dear girl. If you can give me a satisfactory answer, then perhaps Mrs Short will believe you as well.

CHRISTINE HESITATES.

ADAM
Well? … You can’t, can you.

CHRISTINE
Please Mr Parson, don’t tell anyone. Please?

ADAM
It’s too late for that, what?

CHRISTINE
Oh my god, oh my god.

ADAM
It’s not a pretty situation you find yourself in, is it?

CHRISTINE
Mr Parson, please …

ADAM
You could get expelled. Glen should get the sack. He may never find another job. Well, at least the two of you can be together. How you survive is another matter.

CHRISTINE WATCHES HIM STUPEFIED.

ADAM
He has no work. You have no qualifications. Who can live like that! No, I don’t see your relationship lasting.

CHRISTINE
I’m in deep shit, aren’t I?

ADAM
Both of you!

CHRISTINE
Ok, Mr Parson. Dob me in, but leave Glen out of it. Tell the Head that you saw me with a boy from town or something. Please?

ADAM
Now, tell me, why I should leave Glen out of it?

CHRISTINE
He’s an excellent teacher and a good person.

ADAM
A good person? He seduces schoolgirls!

CHRISTINE
Please? I’ll do anything for you.

ADAM SUCKS THOUGHTFULLY AT HIS PIPE.

ADAM
Will you now.

3. INT. COMMON ROOM DAY

AMY AND LUCY ARE HAVING BREAKFAST TOGETHER.

AMY
At least, for now, Antoinette should stay out of trouble.

LUCY
That’s a relief.

AMY
Her parents threatened to send her to Germany if she doesn’t pull herself together.

LUCY
Germany?

AMY
They have boarding schools for the delinquents.

LUCY
She wouldn’t like that.

AMY
A strict regime, uniform, no half terms, no exeats … No, she wouldn’t like that.

LUCY
How did she find out about the ten thousand? Did her parents tell her?

AMY
Good grief no! That’s the last thing you tell your child. No, I don’t know. It’s still a mystery.

LUCY
Who knows about the extra money?

AMY
The whole school knows now. I’m just waiting for Adam to gloat. (MIMICS) Amy, in a spot of trouble eh? Good!

ADAM JOINS THEM.

ADAM
Ah, Amy. In a spot of trouble are we?

AMY
Oh my god. Go away you horrid man.

ADAM
Only trying to be helpful dear girl.

GLEN JOINS THEM.

GLEN
Ah, Amy. Have you found out who spread the rumour?

AMY
No.

LUCY
Who knew?

ADAM
The Head, his secretary, what’s her name …

GLEN
Stephanie …

ADAM
Stephanie, the Bursar and his secretary.

LUCY
No one else?

AMY
I can’t think of anyone.

ADAM
Perhaps someone overheard you talking?

AMY
I don’t talk about such matters. Gosh, you are concerned about me, aren’t you? What’s wrong with you?

ADAM
As I said dear girl, trying to be helpful.

GLEN
The sooner we know the gossip’s name the better.

ADAM
That’s right. Frump told me that she is getting parents on the phone asking for more information.

AMY
Oh good lord, no. Not parents. How can we explain this to parents!

LUCY
Shall I speak to the Head and see what can be done? Maybe a letter can be sent out explaining that it is only a malicious rumour?

ADAM
Splendid idea, what?

AMY LOOKS AT HER WATCH AND RISES.

AMY
I have to go.

LUCY RISES.

LUCY
I have an archaeological dig with the sixth form.

AMY
Canoeing with Peter Martyn and ten thirteen-year-olds.

EXIT AMY AND LUCY.

ADAM
I caught your little filly this morning.

GLEN
Excuse me?

ADAM
Still warm from your bed, what?

GLEN
What are you talking about?

ADAM
Not to worry, dear chap. Your secret is safe with me.

ADAM LIGHTS HIS PIPE AS GLEN NERVOUSLY WATCHES HIM. ADAM WINKS AT HIM. GLEN RISES AND WALKS AWAY. ADAM CHUCKLES. AMY RETURNS.

AMY
By the way, Adam, I didn’t know you jogged early in the morning?

ADAM
Ah. Took it up recently. Good for your health, what?

AMY
She told me the truth then.

ADAM
You’ve lost me my dear.

AMY
Christine. She said that you both went for a run and you were kind enough to lend her your trousers.

ADAM
Ah, that’s me what? A kind person.

AMY
At least she was with you and not with that snake Glen … You haven’t forgotten that Irene incident have you? … They both denied it of course, but he nearly, very nearly got booted out.

Episode One: Silver Birch (part six)

2008-01-29T09:57:00.000-08:00

37. INT. UNDER THE DOME NIGHT

CHARLOTTE, SOPHIE AND ALEXANDRA HAVE MADE THEMSELVES COMFORTABLE UNDER THEIR DUVETS. CANDLES BURN AND THE VODKA BOTTLE IS HALF EMPTY.

ALEXANDRA
Let’s write the play.

SOPHIE
We can call it ‘The spooks”

CHARLOTTE
Cool.

ALEXANDRA
What sort of spooks?

CHARLOTTE
Those that lurk in the shadows?

SOPHIE
And attack you from behind?

ALEXANDRA
Great. Give me your laptop.

CHARLOTTE
I didn’t bring it.

SOPHIE
Nor did I!

ALEXANDRA
Well that is great! How am I supposed to write a play?

SOPHIE
Let’s just talk about it then.

CHARLOTTE
We’ve just done that.

SOPHIE TAKES A SWIG FROM THE NECK OF THE VODKA BOTTLE. THE OLD HOUSE CREAKS IN THE SILENCE.

CHARLOTTE
What’s that!

ALEXANDRA
I don’t like this one bit!

SOPHIE
Don’t be such a scary cat.

ALEXANDRA
I’m not!

THE OLD HOUSE CREAKS AGAIN.

ALEXANDRA
I’m going back!

CHARLOTTE
Don’t be so stupid.

SOPHIE
You don’t really believe that an axe man lives here do you?

ALEXANDRA
I don’t know. Rosie said so.

CHARLOTTE
She also said that it was all nonsense.

ALEXANDRA
What are we doing here then?

SOPHIE
A night away from the House!

THEY HEAR A LOW MOAN.

ALEXANDRA
Did you hear that?

SOPHIE
That was just the wind.

ALEXANDRA
Do you think so?

CHARLOTTE
Of course! In an old house like this, you hear all sorts of sounds.

SOPHIE
You scare easily!

ALEXANDRA
I don’t care. I’m going back.

ALEXANDRA RISES.

SOPHIE
Oh, come on Alex! It’s just an old house. Nobody lives here!

ALEXANDRA
It’s spooky. I’m going.

ALEXANDRA PICKS UP HER DUVET.

ALEXANDRA
This is a mad idea anyway. Are you coming?

SOPHIE AND CHARLOTTE SHAKE THEIR HEADS.

ALEXANDRA
See you tomorrow then.

EXIT ALEXANDRA.

SOPHIE
Keep your mouth shut eh!

CHARLOTTE
She will. Have a sweet.

THEY SHARE SWEETS AND MORE VODKA.

SOPHIE
We will sleep like logs. It’s very quiet.

CHARLOTTE
No snoring …

SOPHIE
… And no farting!

THEY GIGGLE, EAT MORE SWEETS AND DRINK A LITTLE MORE VODKA.

38. INT. HOUSE MAIN AREA NIGHT

AMY ENTERS FROM HER APARTMENT INTO THE DIMLY LIT AREA. ALEXANDRA TURNS IN HER SLEEP AND AMY LOOKS AT THE TWO OTHER MATTRESSES. SHE FINDS EVERYTHING TO HER SATISFACTION AS THE BEDS LOOK AS IF THEY ARE OCCUPIED. AMMY WALKS TO THE DOOR AND SWITCHES THE BUZZER ALARM ON BY PRESSING A CODE. THE DOOR LOCKS AND THE LIGHT ON THE ALARM TURNS FROM GREEN TO RED.

39. INT. UNDER THE DOME NIGHT

CHARLOTTE AND SOPHIE ARE ASLEEP. THE CANDLES ARE OUT. ONE BOTTLE OF VODKA IS EMPTY. ANOTHER, NOT QUITE FULL, HAS TAKEN ITS PLACE.

40. EXT. WOODED AREA NIGHT

MATT CHECKS THE GROUNDS, SHINING HIS TORCH TO SEE IF EVERYTHING IS IN ORDER.

41. INT. UNDER THE DOME NIGHT

CHARLOTTE AND SOPHIE ARE ASLEEP. A LOUD MOAN DISTURBS THE SILENCE. CHARLOTTE STIRS.

CHARLOTTE
Sophie ... Sophie, wake up!

SOPHIE
Mmmmmm. what?

CHARLOTTE
I’ve heard something!

SOPHIE
Oh for goodness sake, don’t you start!

CHARLOTTE
I mean it! I think someone’s here!

SOPHIE
You dreamed it. Go back to sleep.

CHARLOTTE UNEASILY LIES BACK DOWN. SOPHIE TURNS OVER. A LOUD RATTLING SOUND IS HEARD. CHARLOTTE AND SOPHIE SIT BOLT UPRIGHT.

SOPHIE
What was that!

CHARLOTTE
I told you! Someone’s here!

SOPHIE
Put the candles on!

WITH SHAKING HANDS CHARLOTTE STRIKES A MATCH.

SOPHIE
Hurry!

CHARLOTTE LIGHTS THE CANDLES. THE GIRLS LOOK AROUND AND SEE NOTHING.
THEY LISTEN INTENSELY AND THEN GIGGLE NERVOUSLY.

SOPHIE
Oooooh, the axe man’s on the attack.

CHARLOTTE
From the shadows.

THEY GIGGLE AGAIN AND SOPHIE REACHES FOR THE VODKA.

SOPHIE
A little Dutch courage.

CHARLOTTE
Alex would have screamed the place down.

SOPHIE
Such a scary cat.

THE VODKA BOTTLE FAILS TO REACH SOPHIE’S MOUTH WHEN HEAVY FOOTSTEPS ARE HEARD APPROACHING AND THEN STOP.

SOPHIE
That’s not the wind!

CHARLOTTE
What then!

IN THE FLICKERING CANDLELIGHT A DISTORTED SHADOW OF A MAN APPEARS ON THE WALL, WILDLY WIELDING AN ANTIQUE AXE. THE SHADOWY FIGURE SLOWLY BUT STEADILY GROWS AS IT APPROACHES THE TERRIFIED GIRLS. THEY JUMP UP.

CHARLOTTE
The axe man!!

SOPHIE
Heeeeeelp!!!!

CHARLOTTE AND SOPHIE RUN SCREAMING AWAY.

42. EXT. THE OLD HOUSE NIGHT

MATT PASSES THE OLD HOUSE WHEN HE HEARS A COMMOTION FROM WITHIN. HE STOPS.

MATT
What the heck …

MATT SHINES HIS TORCH ON THE CLOSED DOOR. THE DOOR SUDDENLY CRASHES OPEN AND SOPHIE AND CHARLOTTE RUN SCREAMING OUT OF THE HOUSE.

MATT
What’s going on!

SOPHIE
It’s the axe man!

CHARLOTTE
He’s following us!

MATT
The axe man? What’s that!

SOPHIE POINTS AT THE DOOR.

SOPHIE
We didn’t believe that story either, but we saw him!

CHARLOTTE
He’s chasing us!

SOPHIE
With a huge axe!

CHARLOTTE
There he is!!

SCREAMING CHARLOTTE AND SOPHIE RUN AWAY. THROUGH MATT’S TORCHLIGHT A SHADOWY FIGURE WIELDING AN ANTIQUE AXE SLOWLY APPEARS. MATT’S EYES GROW LARGE WITH ALARM. HE WILDLY LOOKS AROUND FOR A WEAPON AND SEES A LARGE STICK LYING ON THE GROUND. HE PICKS IT UP FOR DEFENCE. HE WAITS, STICK IN HIS HANDS LIKE A BASEBALL BAT.

GLEN APPEARS FROM THE SHADOWS. HE THROWS AN ANTIQUE AXE DRUNKENLY ASIDE AND TAKES A SWIG FROM SOPHIE’S VODKA BOTTLE.

MATT
Flipping heck!!!

GLEN GROANS AND COLLAPSES.

43. EXT. SILVER BIRCH HOUSE NIGHT

CHRISTINE HANGS OUT OF HER WINDOW SMOKING A CIGARETTE WHEN SHE SEES CHARLOTTE AND SOPHIE RUN TOWARDS THE HOUSE.

CHRISTINE
What are you two doing out there?

CHARLOTTE
Open the door!

CHRISTINE
I can’t! The buzzer alarm is on!

SOPHIE
Please Chrissie, we have to get in!

CHRISTINE
Go to the lawn!

44. INT. HOUSE MAIN AREA NIGHT

CHRISTINE AND CHARLOTTE PULL SOPHIE THROUGH THE OPENED WINDOW. CHRISTINE PUTS THE WINDOW RESTRAINT BACK ON AND CLOSES THE WINDOW.

CHRISTINE
Tell me the rest tomorrow. What a story! Don’t ever tell anybody about this window. Understood!

CHARLOTTE
We wont. Promise.

SOPHIE
Thank you Chrissie.

CHRISTINE
Now, go to sleep.

CHRISTINE TIPTOES AWAY. CHARLOTTE AND SOPHIE CLIMB ONTO THEIR MATTRESSES. CHARLOTTE POINTS AT A SLEEPING ALEXANDRA.

CHARLOTTE
What shall we tell her tomorrow?

SOPHIE
We tell her about that window. It might become useful one night.

CHARLOTTE
I’ll never be outside this late again, with weirdoes like the axe man around the school.

SOPHIE
We’ll see.

45. EXT. WOODED AREA NIGHT

MATT DRAGS A COMATOSE GLEN TO HIS FLAT, HOLDING HIM UNDER THE ARMPITS. GLENN’S HAND TIGHTLY GRIPS THE VODKA BOTTLE. WITH EACH HEAVE MATT CURSES GLEN.

MATT
… Drunken sod … Good for nothing … Blasted idiot … Stupid fool …

MATT WIPES HIS BROW AND SEES ADAM WALK TOWARDS HIM.

ADAM
Ah, Matt. Just the man I am looking for.

MATT
Are you Mr Parson?

ADAM
Indeed. I need your opinion.

MATT
Right.

ADAM
What do you make of that new teacher?

ADAM LIGHTS HIS PIPE.

MATT
Miss Brown?

ADAM
That’s the one.

MATT
Well, I don’t know. I’m not sure if she fits in.

ADAM THOUGHTFULLY PUFFS ON HIS PIPE. HE THEN LOOKS DOWN AT GLEN.

ADAM
Let me give you a hand dear boy and get him to his bed.

ADAM AND MATT LIFT GLEN AND CARRY HIM TO HIS FLAT.

FREEZE FRAME

END OF EPISODE ONE

Episode One: Silver Birch (part five)

2008-01-23T09:51:00.000-08:00

31. INT. HOUSE FIRST YEAR CORRIDOR DAY

AMY,GESTICULATING, WALKS WITH SEVERAL PROSPECTIVE PARENTS ALONG THE CORRIDOR.

MATT VO
I hung up a ‘Do not enter’ sign.

CLARE VO
Go on!

AMY SEES THE ‘DO NOT ENTER’ SIGN ON THE DOOR. SHE TAKES IT OFF, PUTS IT ON THE FLOOR AND ENTERS THE DORMITORY WITH THE PARENTS.

MATT VO
I’m sure it will hold, but just in case it doesn’t …

CLARE VO
What will happen if it doesn’t?

32. INT. HOUSE DORMITORY DAY

AMY SHOWS THE PROSPECTIVE PARENTS AROUND.

MATT VO
I can’t be certain …

THE CEILING BEGINS TO CRACK. AMY AND THE PARENTS LOOK UP.

MATT VO
I’ll need to get some scaffolding to keep things up …

WITH AN ALMIGHTY CRASH THE BATHTUB, FILLED WITH WATER, DROPS THROUGH THE CEILING. IT FALLS BETWEEN AMY AND THE PARENTS, SPLASHING WATER OVER THEM. SOAKING THEM, THE BEDS AND THE CARPET.

MATT VO
The ceiling is not designed for all that dead weight you see?

CLARE VO
Alright then, come on in.

THE PROSPECTIVE PARENTS ARE OUTRAGED AND UNDER AMY’S PROTEST THEY LEAVE THE DORMITORY.

33. INT. RECEPTION DAY

CLARE OPENS THE DOOR TO MATT. MATT ENTERS AND CLARE CLOSES THE DOOR.

MATT
I’m sure it will hold for now.

CLARE
Who do you want me to call?

MATT
Oh flipping heck. Things can wait. I want a cuddle first.

CLARE
I don’t know if you deserve it. All that hollering!

MATT
Oh come on Clare?

MATT PUTS HIS HAND IN HIS TROUSER POCKET.

MATT
One cuddle, that’s all … What the flip!

MATT TAKES A KEY OUT OF HIS POCKET.

MATT
Where did that come from?

CLARE SNATCHES THE KEY FROM HIS HAND, LOOKS ASTONISHED AT IT AND THEN LOOKS ANGRILY AT MATT.

CLARE
It was you!!!

MATT
It was what?

CLARE
You stole the master key. You mean …

MATT
I didn’t steal it!

CLARE
It went into your pocket all by itself, did it?

MATT
Well …

CLARE
Well?

MATT
I must have forgotten to put it back.

CLARE
Forgotten to put it back? You shouldn’t have had this key in the first place!

MATT
I’m sorry. I needed to lock up the stores after you had gone.

CLARE
What about your key?

MATT
I lost it.

CLARE LOOKS FURIOUSLY AT MATT.

CLARE
You knew I was looking for it.

MATT
Forgive me … Please!

CLARE OPENS THE DOOR.

CLARE
Out!!

SHAMEFACED, MATT EXITS.

CLARE
Men!!

34. EXT. RECEPTION DAY

MATT COMES OUT OF RECEPTION WHERE ADAM, SUCKING ON HIS PIPE, IS WAITING.

ADAM
That went all right what?

MATT
That’s fifty quid you owe me.

ADAM
Thanks old boy. I would never have lived that down.

MATT
Yeah, well. If she’s still mad with me next week, I might change my mind and dob you in.

ADAM
She’s like a shire horse that one. Never carries a grudge for long.

MATT
I hope so for your sake Mr Parson … Oh flipping heck!

ADAM RAISES AN EYEBROW.

MATT
I forgot to tell her who to phone! Back to the lion’s den I go.

35. INT. HOUSE MAIN AREA DUSK

AMY STANDS BEFORE FORTY GIRLS WHO ARE SPRAWLED ON SOFAS, CUSHIONS AND CHAIRS.

AMY
I assure you that the culprit will be caught! It is an absolute disgrace! An act of sabotage! Not to mention the damage to the house and the school’s reputation! … I will give you one last chance! Who damaged the pipe! Who deliberately hit it so hard that it broke! … Well! … Antoinette! Have you any information?

ANTOINETTE IS OUTRAGED BY THE QUESTION.

ANTOINETTE
Here we go again! Something happens and who shall we pick on eh? Poor old me!

AMY
Balderdash! Poor old me! I know that you have something to do with this. I tell you this young lady, when I find out that it was you, I shall make sure that you are expelled!!

ANTOINETTE
Oh yeah?

AMY
Believe you me!

ANTOINETTE
That’s wishful thinking!

AMY
I beg your pardon!

ANTOINETTE
Even if it were me, I wouldn’t be expelled!

AMY
Enlighten me!

ANTOINETTE
The money my parents pay to keep me at this lousy school!

AMY
Poppycock. That will not get you off the hook.

ANTOINETTE
An extra … Ten thousand!!

AMY IS SHOCKED. SO ARE THE GIRLS. A HUM BREAKS OUT.

ANTOINETTE
That shut you up!!

AMY
Quiet please! … Quiet everybody!!

THE HUM SLOWLY DIES DOWN.

AMY
Thank you! Antoinette, I will talk to you again. For now girls, please go to your rooms …

THE GIRLS RISE AND BEGIN TO TALK ABOUT THE REVELATION.

AMY
… I said, go to your rooms quietly!!

AMY, FLUSTERED, WATCHES AS THE GIRLS FILE PAST.

CHRISTINE
Bloody hell Ant! Is that true?

ANTOINETTE
I’m a special case, I am.

CHRISTINE
Did you do it? And get away with it because of your parents’ money?

ANTOINETTE
I can do anything I like. I’m immune.

THET HAVE REACHED THE STAIRS AND SLOWLY WALK UP.

CHRISTINE
Who told you?

CHARLOTTE, SOPHIE AND ALEXANDRA ARE WAITING TO SPEAK TO AMY. FLUSTERED, AMY IS IMPATIENT FOR THE GIRLS TO LEAVE THE MAIN AREA. WITH AN IMPATIENT SIGH SHE TURNS TO CHARLOTTE, SOPHIE AND ALEXANDRA.

AMY
Come on! Go to your dorm! Stop dithering!

CHARLOTTE
Our dorm is wet Mrs Short!

SOPHIE
We can’t go there!

ALEXANDRA
Where will we sleep tonight?

AMY
Oh bother! Yes of course! Stay here.

AMY TURNS TO LEAVE FOR HER APARTMENT. SOPHIE NUDGES ALEXANDRA.

ALEXANDRA
Mrs Short?

IMPATIENT, AMY TURNS.

AMY
Yes, yes, what is it?

ALEXANDRA
Do we have your permission to rehearse the play?

CHARLOTTE
Tonight?

AMY
Oh yes, of course. Don’t forget to sign out and be back by ten. I will lock up then.

SOPHIE
Yes, Mrs Short.

MATT ENTERS WITH A MATTRESS SLUNG OVER HIS SHOULDER.

MATT
Where do I put this?

36. INT. HOUSE APARTMENT LOUNGE DUSK

AMY DIALS A NUMBER AND WAITS.

AMY
Hello Stephany, can I speak to the Headmaster please? … It is of some importance … Yes, of course … Tomorrow at ten in the morning? … Thank you.

AMY HANGS UP AND POURS HERSELF A GLASS OF WINE. SHE SIPS THE WINE AND SITS DOWN ON THE SOFA.

AMY
Oh bother, bother, bother!

Episode One: Silver Birch (part four)

2008-01-17T06:52:00.000-08:00

20. EXT. THE OLD HOUSE DAY

MATT AND ADAM ARE CARRYING A COMATOSE GLEN BETWEEN THEM. HE IS HEAVY AND THEY ARE GETTING TIRED.

MATT
Not much further, Mr Parson.

ADAM
Good! …

ADAM SUDDENLY STOPS. MATT, WALKING BACKWARDS AHEAD OF HIM, HOLDING THE LEGS IS SURPRISED AND DROPS THE LEGS.

MATT
What!

ADAM
Lucy! Showing inspectors around! Back!

LUCY, WITH THREE INSPECTORS, IS EMERGING AROUND THE CORNER. MATT GRABS THE LEGS AND THEY QUICKLY WALK THE OTHER WAY. ADAM IS NOW WALKING BACKWARDS. THIS TIME MATT SUDDENLY STOPS, SURPRISING ADAM WHO NEARLY DROPS GLEN’S HEAD.

MATT
Flip!!

ADAM
What!!

MATT
Mrs Short!!

ON THE OTHER SIDE AMY COMES AROUND THE OTHER CORNER WITH SEVERAL PROSPECTIVE PARENTS. ADAM AND MATT LOOK WILDLY AROUND THEM. MATT SEES A DOOR.

MATT
In here! Quick!

MATT OPENS THE DOOR WITH HIS SHOULDERS, THEY CARRY GLEN INSIDE AND THEY SLAM THE DOOR SHUT. BOTH PARTIES GREET EACH OTHER IN PASSING. THEY DISAPPEAR AROUND THE CORNERS. MATT AND ADAM PEEP AROUND THE DOOR TO SEE IF THEY HAVE GONE. THEY EMERGE AND ADAM LIGHTS HIS PIPE.

ADAM
Damn close shave what?

MATT
Too close to my liking, Mr Parson. Will he be alright in there?

ADAM
He’ll be fine.

MATT
I’ll better get that nut and see to that leak in Silver Birch.

21. EXT. FLAT DAY

CHRISTINE WALKS FROM WINDOW TO WINDOW, LOOKING IN AND KNOCKING. MATT, WALKING PAST, SEES HER AND STOPS.

MATT
What are you doing young lady?

CHRISTINE JUMPS WITH THE SHOCK.

CHRISTINE
Aaah … Mr Baker!

MATT
Shouldn’t you be in class?

CHRISTINE
I should! That’s why I’m here, trying to find Mr Miller!

MATT
You wont find him here.

CHRISTINE
I’ve looked everywhere.

MATT
Your voice sounds familiar.

CHRISTINE
Does it?

MATT
You weren’t in the shed by any chance were you?

CHRISTINE
No-o.

MATT
You could have fooled me.

CHRISTINE BEGINS TO LAUGH.

CHRISTINE
Why in earth would I go to the shed? As if I would find Mr Miller in there!

MATT
No. No, of course not.

CHRISTINE, RELIEVED, WALKS AWAY. MATT WATCHES HER.

MATT
I’d swear … Never mind.

22. INT. HOUSE OFFICE DAY

MO IS GOSSIPING ON THE PHONE.

MO
No … No … I couldn’t believe it either Lisa … The security is so lax here. Unbelievable … Yes … Yes … By the way, what I told you yesterday, keep that schtum will you? … It’s of nobody’s busyness but ours … Ooooooh, did you hear about the present the Redwood boys gave their Matron? … I know! … I would have died if that had been given to me! …

MO SEES LUCY APPROACHING THE HOUSE WITH THREE INSPECTORS.

MO
… The inspectors have arrived with that new teacher, what’s her name … I’d better go Lisa … Sorry? … Yes, ha-ha-ha … Speak soon.

MO HANGS UP, RISES, OPENS THE DOOR AND WALKS OUT OF HER OFFICE.

23. INT. HOUSE MAIN AREA DAY

LUCY STANDS IN THE MAIN AREA WITH THE THREE INSPECTORS AS MO ENTERS FROM HER OFFICE.

LUCY
… And this is the main area where the girls relax and watch TV … Ah, Mrs Pitt isn’t it?

MO
I am so pleased to meet you, Miss Brown.

THEY SHAKE HANDS. LUCY TURNS TO THE INSPECTORS.

LUCY
Mrs Pitt is Silver Birch’s Matron. She takes care of the girls during the day and if there are any problems they consult her.

THE INSPECTORS SHAKE MO’S HAND.

MO
It’s a delight to meet you.

LUCY
I’d like to show the gentlemen around Mrs Pitt before they interview some of your girls.

MO
Of course. Do you know my house Miss Brown? Or would you like me to accompany you?

LUCY
How kind of you Mrs Pitt.

LUCY TURNS TO THE INSPECTORS.

LUCY
Every house is different, you see, and I have not been here long enough to know them all.

THE INSPECTORS AGREE WITH THE EXPLANATION.

LUCY
Right then. Mrs Pitt, after you.

MO
Let’s go upstairs. The first two-year groups are residing there in their four bed dormitories and the sixth-form in their single rooms. Follow me please.

MO LEADS THE WAY UPSTAIRS. AS THEY DISAPPEAR FROM VIEW, MATT ENTERS THROUGH THE OPEN DOOR. HE CHECKS THE LEAKING WATER ON THE WALL AND SEES IT IS WORSE THAN BEFORE.

24. INT. HOUSE SIXTH FORM CORRIDOR DAY

MO, LUCY AND THE THREE INSPECTORS, ENTER THE CORRIDOR.

MO
This is the sixth-form corridor.

MO SHOWS THEM A BATHROOM. THE INSPECTORS NOD IN SATISFACTION.

MO
We have eight single rooms here. This way.

MO KNOCKS ON A DOOR, OPENS IT AND THE INSPECTORS AND LUCY LOOK INTO THE ROOM.

LUCY
Wow. Look how tidy it is.

THE INSPECTORS AGREE.

MO
The girls are very good.

THEY MOVE ON TO THE NEXT ROOM. MO KNOCKS ON THE DOOR, OPENS IT AND THE ROOM IS INSPECTED. LUCY WALKS ON AHEAD. SHE STOPS BY A SHOWER ROOM OPPOSITE CHRISTINE’S ROOM.

LUCY
What’s that?

MO
Pardon?

LUCY
What’s that in there?

MO HURRIES TOWARDS LUCY. THE INSPECTORS FOLLOW. MO LOOKS INTO THE SHOWER ROOM AND SEES TWO DEMIJOHNS BUBBLING MERRILY. ONE DEMIJOHN HAS A NOTE SAYING ‘DO NOT TOUCH, POISONOUS’ AND THE OTHER HAS A NOTE SAYING ‘DO NOT TOUCH, TOXIC’. A LETTER LEANS AGAINST THEM.

MO
I … I don’t know …

LUCY STEPS INTO THE SHOWER ROOM AND STEPS BACK HOLDING THE LETTER. SHE THEN READS THE LETTER.

LUCY
Dear Antoinette … Isn’t that Antoinette Vanderbeek? The trouble maker?

MO
Yes!!

LUCY READS ON.

LUCY
‘It was lovely to see your enthusiasm about your chemical experiment, Antoinette. However, your room is not airy enough and this experiment would go wrong there. I have therefore moved it in here as the ventilation is much better. I hope that you don’t mind. Love Maggie’… Wow, I’m absolutely astonished. I had no idea that she liked Chemistry this much. Good for Mr Fisher!

MO IS SEETHING INSIDE THAT MAGGIE HAD NOT CONSULTED HER ABOUT THE MATTER.

MO
Mmmmmmm!

LUCY
Who’s Maggie? I must congratulate her on such an inventive move and for helping such a difficult girl. Her full name must be Margaret.

MO
Oh, … Ah, … That would be a student …

ONE OF THE INSPECTORS MOVES ALONG THE CORRIDOR TO READ THE NAMES ON THE DOOR.

MO
… From Weeping Willow House.

25. INT. RECEPTION DAY

CLARE IS OPENING AND CLOSING DRAWERS AND CUPBOARDS. ADAM APPEARS BY THE OPEN HATCH.

ADAM
Still no luck what?

CLARE
No.

ADAM TRIES TO OPEN THE DOOR.

CLARE
What can I do for you?

ADAM
My post! Why the devil is the door locked?

CLARE WALKS TO ADAM’S PIGEONHOLE, TAKES HIS POST AND GIVES IT TO HIM.

CLARE
I have strict instructions.

ADAM
Ah. Image of the school what?

CLARE
Do you know where Mr Miller is?

ADAM
Mr Miller eh?

CLARE
Apparently he cannot be found again.

ADAM
Oh?

CLARE
Some kids have been complaining about his disappearances to their parents. I have had irate phone calls all day.

ADAM
I can’t help you there I’m afraid.

CLARE
Somebody must give him a good talking to.

ADAM
Well, I’m not your man what?

CLARE
No, no I gather you’re not.

ADAM LIGHTS HIS PIPE AND WALKS AWAY. CHANGING HIS MIND, HE TURNS AND WALKS BACK TO THE HATCH.

ADAM
By the way Fr …

SEEING HER FURIOUS LOOK, HE HASTILY CORRECTS HIMSELF.

ADAM
Miss Frump.

CLARE
Yes?

ADAM
What do you think of that new teacher?

CLARE
Miss Brown?

ADAM
That’s the one.

THE TELEPHONE IN RECEPTION BEGINS TO RING.

CLARE
Well, she is different … Excuse me.

CLARE TURNS TO ANSWER THE TELEPHONE. ADAM THOUGHTFULLY NODS AND SUCKS ON HIS PIPE.

26. INT. HOUSE LOFT DAY

MATT TURNS THE WATER OFF.

27. INT. BATHROOM DAY

A SIXTEEN-YEAR-OLD GIRL IS HAVING A SHOWER. HER HAIR IS FULL OF SHAMPOO. SUDDENLY THE WATER FLOW COMES TO A STOP. THE GIRL TRIES THE TAPS BUT NOTHING HAPPENS.

28. INT. FIRST YEAR CORRIDOR DAY

MATT HANGS A ‘DO NOT ENTER’ SIGN ON THE DORMITORY DOOR.

29. EXT. SILVER BIRCH HOUSE DAY

AMY APPROACHES THE HOUSE WITH SEVERAL PROSPECTIVE PARENTS. SHORTLY AFTER THEY HAVE ENTERED THE HOUSE, MATT LEAVES IN A HURRY.

30. INT. RECEPTION DAY

CLARE IS ON THE PHONE WHEN THERE IS AN IMPATIENT KNOCK ON THE DOOR.

CLARE
Of course Madam, I understand …

ANOTHER IMPATIENT KNOCK.

CLARE
I’m afraid he is not to be disturbed …

ANOTHER LOUDER IMPATIENT KNOCK.

MATT OOV
Flipping heck Clare let me in!!

CLARE, IRRITATED, LOOKS UP AND COVERS THE MOUTHPIECE.

CLARE
Shut up Matt!!

SHE UNCOVERS THE MOUTHPIECE.

CLARE
However, I can put you through to the Bursar, to lodge your complaint …

MATT OOV
Let me in!!

CLARE IGNORES MATT’S CRIES AND CONTINUAL KNOCKING.

CLARE
I quite understand … Yes … Thank you Madam … Yes … Putting you through.

CLARE PRESSES A BUTTON ON THE SWITCHBOARD, HANGS UP THE PHONE AND WALKS TO THE HATCH, OPENING IT FORCEFULLY.

CLARE
I am not being spoken to like that! Shouting and screaming whilst I am on the phone to Lady Wyndham! How dare you! The school’s image is at stake here and all you can do is make a nuisance! Go away! And stay away!

AND WITH THAT SHE SLAMS THE HATCH SHUT IN MATT’S FACE. CLARE SEETHES AS SHE SORTS THE POST. SHE THROWS THE LETTERS AND PARCELS AROUND. THERE IS A MEEK KNOCK.

CLARE
Yes!

MATT OOV
Please Clare, let me in?

CLARE
No!

MATT OOV
It’s important!

CLARE
It’s always important with you!

MATT OOV
It really is! Believe me!

CLARE
Explain!

MATT OOV
I need you to phone for help!

Episode One: Silver Birch (part three)

2008-01-13T02:28:00.000-08:00

12. INT. HOUSE LOFT DAY

ANTOINETTE IS NOSING AROUND. SHE TRIES TO OPEN AN OLD TRUNK AND KICKS SOME EMPTY BOXES. SHE FINDS A SPANNER LEFT BY MATT. SHE WEIGHS IT IN HER HAND AND TAKES A SWING. SHE SEES THE WATERPIPES AND HITS THE PIPES HARD. SATISFIED SHE WATCHES AS A TINY TRICKLE OF WATER ARCHES INTO AN OLD BATH TUB.

13. INT. MALE TOILETS DAY

MATT ENTERS.

MATT
In here Mr Parson.

ADAM ENTERS. MATT UNLOCKS THE CUBICLE DOOR AND SHOWS ADAM WHERE A COMATOSE GLEN LIES. ADAM TAKES HIS PIPE FROM HIS POCKET, LIGHTS IT AND PUFFS IN DELIGHT.

ADAM
Well, we can’t leave him here, what?

14. INT. HOUSE MAIN AREA DAY

CHARLOTTE, SOPHIE AND ALEXANDRA CARRY A DUVET EACH. BETWEEN THEM THEY ARE HOLDING A PLASTIC TRAY FILLED WITH CANDLES, FOOD AND WATERBOTTLES. THEY TIPTOE TOWARDS THE DOOR.

AMY
You stop right there!!!

THE GIRLS STOP DEAD.

AMY
Where do you think that you are going?

THE GIRLS LOOK IN DESPERATION AT EACH OTHER.

SOPHIE
It’s not what it looks like Mrs Short!

CHARLOTTE
Honestly Mrs Short!

AMY
Well then. Tell me. Where are you planning to take that?

SOPHIE
Oh that!

CHARLOTTE
You mean this?

AMY
Well?

SOPHIE AND CHARLOTTE ARE LOST FOR WORDS.

ALEXANDRA
It’s … It’s for the play Mrs Short.

CHARLOTTE AND SOPHIE LOOK ASTONISHED AT ALEXANDRA.

AMY
The play?

SOPHIE
Yes Mrs Short. We need duvets …

CHARLOTTE
… And candles …

AMY
What play?

SOPHIE AND CHARLOTTE LOOK HESITANTLY AT ALEXANDRA.

ALEXANDRA
A surprise play, Mrs Short.

CHARLOTTE
For … For you!

AMY
For me!

SOPHIE
Well, it’s not a surprise now. We’d better take it back. Come on.

THE GIRLS TURN AND MAKE THEIR WAY BACK TO THE STAIRS.

AMY
Hang on.

THE GIRLS STOP, LOOKING HESITANTLY AT EACH OTHER.

AMY
You are taking this to rehearse a play in my honour?

ALEXANDRA
Yes Mrs Short.

AMY
I’m absolutely delighted. Go. Go on! Go!

CHARLOTTE
You mean that we can take this?

AMY
I can’t wait for the performance.

AMY TURNS AND WALKS TOWARDS MO’S OFFICE.

AMY
That is such a lovely idea.

SOPHIE
Thank you Mrs Short.

GIGGLING THE GIRLS EXIT. AMY OPENS MO’S OFFICE DOOR.

15. INT. HOUSE OFFICE DAY

THE SUDDEN OPENING OF THE DOOR STARTLES MO. SHE JUMPS UP FROM HER SEAT AND SLAMS THE PHONE DOWN. AMY, PUZZLED, STANDS IN THE DOORWAY.

MO
Erm … Wrong number!

16. EXT. SHED DAY

MATT AND ADAM ARE CARRYING A COMATOSE GLEN TOWARDS HIS FLAT. ADAM CLAMPS HIS PIPE BETWEEN HIS TEETH.

ADAM
The fellow’s heavy what?

MATT
Twice as heavy I suppose.

ADAM
What?

MATT
With all that drink in him!

SUDDENLY THE BURSAR, LEADING A GROUP OF PROSPECTING PARENTS, COMES ROUND A CORNER. HE HAS HIS BACK TO ADAM AND MATT AS HE GESTICULATES AT THE PARENTS. MATT AND ADAM LOOK AROUND. MATT INDICATES THE SHED WITH HIS HEAD.

MATT
In there!

THEY QUICKLY CARRY GLEN INTO THE SHED.

17. INT. SHED DAY

MATT AND ADAM LAY A COMATOSE GLEN DOWN.

ADAM
This seems to be a good place to leave him.

MATT
No. The inspectors haven’t been in here yet.

ADAM
In here? Why the devil do they want to see this place?

MATT
Don’t ask me …

THEY HEAR FOOTSTEPS APPROACHING AND STARTLED LOOK AT EACH OTHER. THEY HASTILY PICK UP GLEN, MOVE DEEPER INTO THE SHED AND HIDE IN THE SHADE. CHRISTINE ENTERS THE SHED.

CHRISTINE
Glen …

HESITANTLY CHRISTINE WALKS FURTHER INTO THE SHED. ANTOINETTE, UNNOTICED BY CHRISTINE, FOLLOWS.

CHRISTINE
Glen … Are you in here?

ADAM AND MATT LOOK QUESTIONINGLY AT EACH OTHER. CHRISTINE WALKS TOWARDS A MATTRESS COVERED WITH A BLANKET AND SURROUNDED BY CANDLES AT THE FAR END OF THE SHED.

ANTOINETTE
What is this?

CHRISTINE JUMPS. SO DO MATT AND ADAM WHO DIDN’T SEE ANTOINETTE ENTER.

CHRISTINE
What are you doing here?

ANTOINETTE
Curiosity. Whose is this?

CHRISTINE
I … I don’t know.

ANTOINETTE
It looks like some ones love nest.

CHRISTINE
Really? Do you think so?

ANTOINETTE
What are you doing here?

CHRISTINE
Oh, I … I lost my watch and I was hoping that Mr Baker might have found it.

ANTOINETTE
Mr Baker eh? That sly old fox.

CHRISTINE
Is he?

ANTOINETTE
It’s obvious isn’t it?

ANTOINETTE TURNS AND WALKS BACK FOLLOWED BY CHRISTINE.

CHRISTINE
What is?

ANTOINETTE
He brings a woman in here.

CHRISTINE
You know, I think that you’re right!

ANTOINETTE
Oh yes, and I will find out who she is.

CHRISTINE
What will you do when you find out?

ANTOINETTE
Oh, I’ll make something up.

EXIT CHRISTINE AND ANTOINETTE. ADAM LIGHTS HIS PIPE.

ADAM
A woman, what?

MATT
It’s not true Mr Parson. I swear …

ADAM
Let’s have a look at that love bed of yours.

ADAM STRIDES TOWARDS THE DEN, FOLLOWED BY MATT.

MATT
Mr Parson! It’s not mine! … I don’t know what they were talking about! … I swear that this has nothing to do with me! …

ADAM HAS REACHED THE DEN. MATT RELUCTANTLY JOINS HIM.

ADAM
By Jove! What a cosy place you’ve got here!

MATT
Mr Parson …

ADAM
… Not to worry dear boy. We all have secrets.

MATT
Oh, I give up.

ADAM
It’s safe with me, dear fellow … Who is she?

MATT RAISES HIS HANDS AND SHAKES HIS HEAD.

ADAM
Ah. Got you.

THEY WALK BACK TO WHERE GLEN LIES.

ADAM
Let’s get him out of here before another filly comes looking for him, what?

MATT
Yes. What was that about?

ADAM TAPS HIS NOSE.

MATT
Ah. Got you.

18. INT. UNDER THE DOME DAY

CHARLOTTE, SOPHIE AND ALEXANDRA HAVE ARRANGED THEIR DUVETS IN A CIRCLE WITH FOOD, WATERBOTTLES AND CANDLES BESIDE THEM.

SOPHIE
Let’s come back tonight.

ALEXANDRA
I don’t know …

CHARLOTTE
Oh come on Alex. Don’t quit now.

ALEXANDRA
It’s spooky in here.

SOPHIE
That’s the whole point isn’t it?

ALEXANDRA
I suppose so.

SOPHIE
We’d better start to concoct a play.

CHARLOTTE
Couldn’t you think of something better?

ALEXANDRA
At least I thought of something!

SOPHIE TAKES A BOTTLE OF VODKA OUT OF HER BAG AND DRINKS FROM THE NECK OF THE BOTTLE, BEFORE PASSING IT ON TO CHARLOTTE, WHO TAKES A SIP BEFORE PASSING IT ON TO ALEXANDRA, WHO DECLINES.

SOPHIE
I can’t think of a story!

CHARLOTTE
You’ve got to write something Alex. It was your plan.

ALEXANDRA
That’s not fair!

SOPHIE
Ok, Charlie will help you.

CHARLOTTE
We can think of something tonight when we wait for the axe man.

ALEXANDRA
Let’s go to class. Come on.

THE GIRLS RISE AND AFTER A QUICK SWIG OF VODKA BETWEEN CHARLOTTE AND SOPHIE, THEY EXIT.

19. INT. HOUSE MAIN AREA DAY

MO WALKS TOWARDS THE KITCHEN AND SEES THE TRICKLE OF WATER BACK ON THE WALL.

MO
Oh no!!

THE EXCLAMATION MAKES MAGGIE AND ROSIE APPEAR FROM THE KITCHEN.

ROSIE
It’s back!

MAGGIE
I’ve just cleaned that!

MO
It’s worse than before!

ROSIE
It’s gone twelve! The inspectors will be here soon.

MO
Put a bucket under it. I’ll get Matt.

MO WALKS TOWARDS HER OFFICE.

ROSIE
What have you done with Ant’s wine?

Episode One: Silver Birch (part two)

2008-01-09T06:47:00.000-08:00

8. EXT. RECEPTION DAY

LUCY WALKS TOWARDS RECEPTION WITH AN ENVELOPE IN HER HAND AND KNOCKS ON THE HATCH. CLARE OPENS THE HATCH.

CLARE
Miss Brown. What can I do for you?

LUCY
Can I have a first class stamp please?

CLARE
I can put the letter through the franking machine.

CLARE REACHES OUT TO TAKE THE ENVELOPE. LUCY QUICKLY STEPS BACK.

LUCY
No. Thank you Miss Frump, a stamp will do.

CLARE
As you wish.

CLARE LEANS ACROSS AND GIVES LUCY A FIRST CLASS STAMP.

LUCY
Thank you so much.

LUCY WALKS AWAY.

CLARE
Are you not going to put the stamp on the envelope? I can put it in the post for you.

LUCY
No thank you.

LUCY WALKS AWAY.

CLARE
Most peculiar!

ADAM, STANDING AROUND THE CORNER, THOUGHTFULLY LIGHTS HIS PIPE.

ADAM
Indeed.

ADAM WALKS AWAY AS CLARE CLOSES THE HATCH. MATT WALKS TOWARDS RECEPTION AND TRIES TO OPEN THE DOOR. HE IMPATIENTLY KNOCKS. THERE IS NO ANSWER. HE KNOCKS LOUDER.

CLARE OOV
Yes, yes, what is it!!

CLARE OPENS THE HATCH.

CLARE
Oh, it’s you.

MATT
Have you got another man in there?

MATT PUSHES HIS FACE THROUGH THE HATCH. CLARE PUSHES HIS FACE BACK.

CLARE
Don’t be daft.

MATT
Why is the door locked then?

CLARE
I have strict instructions from the Bursar. I am the only one allowed in here today. We must protect the schools good image.

MATT
Where’s Mr Parson?

CLARE
In his classroom presumably. Why?

MATT
Never mind. Have you found it yet?

CLARE
No. Whoever took it will get the sack, I assure you!

MATT
Let me in.

CLARE
No.

MATT
Please?

CLARE
I can’t!

MATT
Please, please?

CLARE SIGHS.

MATT
No one will know.

CLARE
Come on in then.

CLARE OPENS THE DOOR AND MATT SLIPS IN. CLARE LOOKS AROUND, SHUTS THE HATCH AND LOCKS THE DOOR FROM THE INSIDE.

9. EXT. PARKING LOT DAY

ADAM WALKS TOWARDS HIS CAR AS LUCY COMES TOWARDS HIM.

ADAM
Well, hello there.

ADAM LOOKS AROUND AND THEN AT THE SKY BEFORE HE LOOKS AT A PUZZLED LUCY AGAIN.

ADAM
A beautiful autumnal day, what?

LUCY
What are you on about?

ADAM
Just making conversation, my dear.

LUCY
Yeah right.

ADAM
Can a man not enjoy conversing with a beautiful young woman as yourself?

LUCY PLANTS HER HANDS ON HER HIPS AND LOOKS SUSPICIOUSLY AT ADAM.

ADAM
Apparently not, what?

ADAM TURNS AND BEGINS TO WALK AWAY. HE THEN CHANGES HIS MIND AND TURNS BACK.

ADAM
Oh, by the way …

ADAM STEPS CLOSER TO LUCY. LUCY BACKS OFF.

ADAM
I have a message from the Head.

LUCY
Oh?

ADAM
It’s a bit delicate, I’m afraid.

LUCY
Right?

ADAM
A little bit like licking a stamp.

LUCY
What’s the message?

ADAM
Ah.

LUCY
Well?

ADAM
I have been asked to tell you …

ADAM TAKES HIS PIPE OUT OF HIS POCKET AND PROCEEDS TO LIGHT IT.

ADAM
… That you have to modify your attire and be more polite.

LUCY
I beg your pardon!!

ADAM TURNS AND WALKS AWAY.

LUCY
Adam?

ADAM TURNS, PIPE CLAMPED BETWEEN HIS TEETH.

LUCY
Pipe!!

10. INT. HOUSE SIXTH FORM CORRIDOR DAY

CHRISTINE, ANTOINETTE AND TWO OTHER GIRLS ARE SITTING COMPARING NOTES. MAGGIE APPROACHES WITH HER VACUUM CLEANER. THE TWO GIRLS MOVE ASIDE. CHRISTINE RISES AND STANDS AGAINST THE WALL. ANTOINETTE PUTS HER LEGS HIGH UPON THE OPPOSITE WALL. MAGGIE STOPS.

MAGGIE
Ant? … Can I pass by?

ANTOINETTE STICKS TWO FINGERS UP. MAGGIE TURNS AND MAKES HER WAY VIA ANOTHER CORRIDOR.

CHRISTINE
That was rude!

ANTOINETTE
So?

CHRISTINE
Maggie’s alright.

ANTOINETTE
She’s an old hag.

CHRISTINE
She’s never grassed on us. You’d better keep it that way.

ANTOINETTE
Yeah yeah.

AT THE OTHER END OF THE CORRIDOR MAGGIE PLUGS IN THE VACUUM CLEANER AND SWITCHES IT ON.

ANTOINETTE
She’s not getting in my room!

ANTOINETTE SCRAMBLES UP AND HURRIES TOWARDS MAGGIE WHO IS ABOUT TO GO INTO ANTOINETTE’S ROOM. MAGGIE SEES HER COMING AND SWITCHES THE VACUUM CLEANER OFF.

ANTOINETTE
My room’s alright. It doesn’t need cleaning.

MAGGIE
I’ll need to do it. It’s my job!

ANTOINETTE
Stay out of my room.

MAGGIE
Ok. I shall tell Mrs Pitt that I’ll do your room tomorrow.

ANTOINETTE
Tell her what you like! As if I care.

MAGGIE
I’ll do your room when you are out, if that makes you feel better.

ANTOINETTE
Read my lips. I don’t care!

ANTOINETTE WALKS AWAY AND AROUND THE CORNER. SHE SEES THE LADDER AND THE LOFT HATCH, LEFT OPEN BY MATT. CHRISTINE WALKS TOWARDS HER.

CHRISTINE
Come on Ant? Don’t be like that.

ANTOINETTE BEGINS TO CLIMB THE LADDER.

ANTOINETTE
Are you coming?

CHRISTINE
I have a class!

ANTOINETTE
Be a spoilsport then.

11. INT. HOUSE ANTOINETTE’S ROOM DAY

MAGGIE PUSHES THE DOOR HARD AS CLOTHES ARE STREWN EVERYWHERE ON THE FLOOR. SHE PUTS A WEDGE IN THE DOOR TO KEEP IT OPEN AND THEN ENTERS. SHE LOOKS AT THE MESS IN THE ROOM AND WRINKLES HER NOSE AS THERE IS A BAD SMELL.

MAGGIE
Two days back and it’s like this already!

MAGGIE GATHERS THE CLOTHING, OPENS THE LARGE SLIDING DOOR UNDER THE BED AND PROCEEDS TO SHOVE THEM IN. SOMETHING STOPS THE CLOTHING GOING IN AND MAGGIE INVESTIGATES.

MAGGIE
Good Lord alive!!

MAGGIE TAKES OUT A FULL DEMIJOHN OF FERMENTING WINE. ROSIE ENTERS.

ROSIE
What are you doing?

MAGGIE JUMPS UP AND LOOKS WIDE-EYED AT ROSIE.

MAGGIE
Oh, it’s you! I thought it was Ant! I just had a run in with her. What a spoilt brat. And ruder than ever!

ROSIE
What’s that? What’s the smell?

MAGGIE
The stupid girl is brewing her own, that’s what! There’s another one in there. Look!

ROSIE BENDS DOWN AND LOOKS.

ROSIE
Well, we all know what that leads to, don’t we?

MAGGIE
The smell’s a dead give away. Sooner or later Amy will find out.

ROSIE
I’d tell Mo, of course. The cheek of it!

MAGGIE
She’ll be expelled!

ROSIE
One less troublemaker.

MAGGIE
No … No, I have an idea.

Grindhirst

2008-01-06T09:57:00.000-08:00

GRINDHIRST EPISODE ONE

SILVER BIRCH (part one)

1. EXT. PARKING LOT DAY

CLARE FURIOUS STOMPS UP AND DOWN. ADAM ARRIVES, PARKS HIS CAR AND CLARE STOMPS TOWARDS HIS CAR AS ADAM EXITS AND LOCKS THE CAR.

CLARE
Mr Parson!

ADAM
Ah, Frump!

CLARE
Miss Frump to you, Mister Parson!!

ADAM LIGHTS HIS PIPE AND INHALES WITH DELIGHT.

ADAM
Of course, what? What can I do for you?

CLARE
Give it back!

ADAM
Excuse me?

CLARE
You were in there last! You loitered behind my back! Give it back!

ADAM SUCKS NOISILY ON HIS PIPE AND LOOKS AT CLARE IN ASTONISHMENT.

ADAM
My dear girl …

CLARE
I expect that you will do the honourable thing and will return it to reception at once!

CLARE TURNS AND FURIOUSLY STOMPS AWAY. FROM A SHORT DISTANCE LUCY AND AMY, DEEP IN CONVERSATION, WALK ACROSS THE PARKING LOT. ADAM WATCHES LUCY’S MOVEMENTS WITH DELIGHT.

ADAM
Ah, the elusive new teacher, Miss Brown.

2. INT. HOUSE MAIN AREA DAY

MO, MAGGIE AND ROSIE ARE LOOKING AT A TRICKLE OF WATER DRIBBLING DOWN A WALL.

MO
Today of all days, this has to happen.

ROSIE
Why? What’s happening today?

MO
Prospective parents are being shown around. And the school inspectors are on their way.

MAGGIE
In Silver Birch?

MO
And Redwood. The girls have been told to be on their best behaviour.

AMY ENTERS THE HOUSE.

AMY
Why has this not been sorted?

MO
Matt’s checking the system in the loft.

AMY
Let’s hope that he fixes it before twelve.

MAGGIE
Is that the time the parents are being shown around?

AMY
It’s the time that the inspectors will arrive to talk to the girls. Parents are visiting this afternoon.

MO’S TELEPHONE IN HER OFFICE RINGS.

MO
Excuse me.

EXIT MO TO THE OFFICE.

AMY
The inspectors might well ask you some questions.

MAGGIE
What sort of questions?

AMY
Anything to do with the girls’ welfare.

ROSIE
What do we need to know?

AMY
Off the top of my head? How to deal with an illness for example, or what to do when you find a girl in bed with a boy.

ROSIE & MAGGIE
Tell Mo!!

AMY
Right. Well how about a real emergency. Do you know how to react if you find a girl unconscious with a peanut allergy?

ROSIE AND MAGGIE LOOK AT EACH OTHER AND SHAKE THEIR HEADS.

AMY
We do have one.

ROSIE
Who?

AMY
Cordelia. Come with me. Did Mo not mention her to you?

3. INT. HOUSE APARTMENT STUDY DAY

AMY OPENS A CUPBOARD AND SHOWS THE MEDICAL SUPPLY TO ROSIE AND MAGGIE. SHE TAKES OUT A SYRINGE WRAPPED IN STERILE PLASTIC.

AMY
Right. You take off the wrapping, then you pull this out, squirt it a bit to make sure there is no air and then …

AMY JABS THE NEEDLE INTO A CUSHION.

AMY
Give it a try. There is nothing to it.

AMY GIVES THE SYRINGE TO ROSIE AND LOOKS AT HER WATCH.

AMY
Bother. I have to go to my next PE lesson.

EXIT AMY. ROSIE TURNS THE SYRINGE AROUND IN HER HANDS.

ROSIE
What does she thinks we are! Nurses? I’m not having anything to do with this!

4. INT. HOUSE MAIN AREA DAY

MATT WALKS DOWN THE STAIRS AS MO IS STRAIGHTENING SOME NEWSPAPERS ON A TABLE.

MATT
It’s sorted for now Mrs Pitt.

MO
Oh good.

MATT
I tightened it, but it needs a new nut. I’ll see if I can find one. I might be some time. I have other things to do.

MO
Thank you Matt.

MATT
No problem.

EXIT MATT. MO INVESTIGATES THE WALL AND SEES THAT THE LEAK HAS STOPPED. MAGGIE AND ROSIE ENTER FROM AMY’S APARTMENT.

MO
Clean this mess up!

5. EXT. PARKING LOT DAY

ADAM WATCHES WITH DELIGHT AS LUCY APPROACHES.

LUCY
Have you been avoiding me?

ADAM
Avoiding you? My dear girl, I have been busy, what? You know what it’s like. Supervision, double preps.

LUCY
I have a message for you from the Head … It’s a bit delicate.

ADAM RAISES HIS EYEBROWS. LUCY STEPS CLOSER. ADAM STEPS BACK.

LUCY
There’s no need for this you know.

ADAM
Pardon?

LUCY
This.

LUCY STEPS CLOSER. ADAM BACKS OF.

LUCY
You’re doing it again!

ADAM
My dear girl. I just don’t like it when people stand too close to me. That’s all, what?

LUCY
Aaaah, right. I’m invading your space!

ADAM, RATTLED, LIGHTS HIS PIPE AS LUCY EYES HIM UP AND DOWN.

LUCY
Are you sure that’s all it is?

ADAM
Of course!

LUCY
It has nothing to do with the other day when you invited me for diner? Which, by the way, I still haven’t had yet.

ADAM HOLDS UP HIS HANDS IN DEFENCE.

ADAM
Ah, that’s not my fault. What’s the message?

LUCY
What message?

ADAM
The Head’s message?

LUCY
Oh that! You are to refrain from smoking your pipe today.

LUCY STEPS CLOSER.

LUCY
(HUSKY) It creates the wrong image.

LUCY TRIUMPHANTLY TURNS AND WALKS AWAY. ADAM THOUGHTFULLY SUCKS ON HIS PIPE AND FOLLOWS HER MOVEMENTS.

ADAM
Indeed. The wrong image …

6. INT. MALE TOILETS DAY

MATT, CARRYING A MOP AND BUCKET, ENTERS.

MATT
Flipping heck!

GLEN LIES FACE DOWN, SPREAD-EAGLED, IN A POOL OF VOMIT. MATT DROPS HIS MOP AND BUCKET. HE BENDS OVER GLEN, TURNS HIS FACE SIDEWAYS AND IMMEDIATELY WITHDRAWS AS GLEN STINKS OF DRINK.

MATT
Pwaaaah!

MATT RISES AND SCRATCHES HIS HEAD.

MATT
What are we going to do with you eh?

FOOTSTEPS APPROACH.

MATT
Now what!!

MATT QUICKLY TAKES GLEN FROM UNDER HIS ARMS, SLIDES HIM INTO ONE OF THE CUBICLES AND LOCKS THE DOOR.

A BOY ENTERS, PICKS UP A FILE PLACED ON A LEDGE AND EXITS.

MATT OPENS THE CUBICLE DOOR, LOCKS IT FROM THE OUTSIDE, TAKES HIS MOP AND BUCKET AND EXITS.

7. INT. HOUSE DORMITORY DAY

CHARLOTTE, SOPHIE AND ALEXANDRA ARE SITTING ON THEIR RESPECTIVE BEDS AS ROSIE, SURPRISED TO SEE THEM, ENTERS WITH A HALF FULL BLACK BINLINER.

ROSIE
No class?

SOPHIE
We’re skiving.

ALEXANDRA
We don’t like Mr Griffith.

CHARLOTTE
He’s horrible. He peeks under your skirt.

ROSIE
What!

ALEXANDRA
She’s making that up.

CHARLOTTE
No I’m not!

SOPHIE
Rosie?

ROSIE
You have to be careful making accusations like that. Before you know it, he could be in serious trouble.

CHARLOTTE
That’s what we want!

SOPHIE
Rosie? … Is it true?

ROSIE
Is what true?

SOPHIE
Has the school got ghosts?

ROSIE
Who told you that?

CHARLOTTE
It’s true, isn’t it?

ROSIE SITS DOWN ON THE FOURTH BED.

ROSIE
I have heard stories …

CHARLOTTE
(TO ALEXANDRA) See!!!

ALEXANDRA
Are there ghosts in here?

ROSIE
They’re in the Old House mainly.

SOPHIE
Really?

ROSIE
Outside the bursary too, I believe.

CHARLOTTE
Have you ever seen one?

ROSIE
Once, I think. I can’t be sure though. It happened very fast.

ALEXANDRA
What did you see?

ROSIE
I think that it was a knight on his horse.

ALEXANDRA
Creepy!

CHARLOTTE
What else have you seen?

ROSIE RISES, EMPTIES A BIN AND WALKS TOWARDS THE DOOR.

ROSIE
Someone said a long time ago that he saw the axe man in the Old House, under the dome. It’s all nonsense of course.

EXIT ROSIE.

SOPHIE
The axe man eh?

Intro

2008-01-03T11:41:00.000-08:00

Hi,

After the initial success of my audio book, Middle Ditch, I have decided to put my scripts online too!

I have a choice of material and I would like to know which one you would like to read first.

1: Grindhirst. An eighteen episode television drama series set in a boarding school.

2: The Book Launch. A sixty minute television comedy drama where everything that can go wrong does go wrong.

3: Shepherd' s Delight. A six episode television comedy drama series set in a conference centre.

4: Fathers and Daughters. A three part television period drama series about three generations of feisty women.

5: A Writer's weekend. A sixty minute television comedy drama about a woman's journey to freedom.

Please feel free to comment and give me your choice.