I'm really not happy with
the length of my sword, Phyllis.
How old are you, Marcus? 5?
This is a concert,
not a full production.
We all have to compromise.
This toy is
a compromise too far.
See if there's another
sword in the prop store, Derek.
More befitting our Pirate King.
In the meantime, can we run the
song with the smaller version?
If you don't feel
too emasculated.
From the intro, please, Duncan.
Stand by, everyone.
Luke.
Marcus. Marcus.
Where's he going now?
Has he got the runs?
Marcus. Luke.
Shaila.
Can you please find out
what's going on?
It's like herding cats.
This would never have happened
in Daddy's day.
His rehearsals
ran like clockwork.
You do realize there's only
three days till curtain up.
It had crossed my mind.
Well?
The conservator
offered me a place.
Oh! Splendid!
Oh, Luke, that's wonderful.
It's the biggest we've got.
Marcus Dunlow,
get back on stage now
or I'll sing it myself.
I'll celebrate later.
I am so proud of you.
Oh, well done.
How's it going?
Oh, slowly.
Any chance you'll be back
for dinner?
Breakfast at this rate.
- John, good to see you.
- And you, Jeremy.
So grateful Sarah could step in
at such short notice.
I've been trying to get her
involved ever since
I heard her sing
at that school concert.
- Voice of an angel.
- Well, thank you kind, sir.
It must be difficult
for you, though,
juggling your work
with all the extra childcare.
- We do appreciate it.
- It's all in a good cause.
I have to say
I'm rather enjoying it.
As is Betty. She's gonna
turn into a pizza at this rate.
Phyllis wants
all the singers back inside
to avoid wasting any more time.
Better go.
Sorry, darling.
Mind if I sneak in the back?
I've got half an hour
before I need to pick Betty up.
I wouldn't recommend it, John.
Lady Empson's not very keen
on outsiders.
Or anyone else, for that matter.
See you.
♪ And it is, it is
a glorious thing ♪
♪ To be a Pirate King ♪
♪ For I am the Pirate King ♪
♪ You are,
hurrah for our Pirate King ♪
♪ And it is, it is
a glorious thing ♪
♪ To be a Pirate King ♪
♪ It is,
hurrah for our Pirate King ♪
♪ Hurrah for the Pirate King ♪
Applause, applause, applause,
and lights down.
And cue Graham for his
Gilbert and Sullivan monologue.
Graham.
I can't find him.
This is in absolute shambles.
- Derek?
- Yes.
Can you see where he's got to?
I'm losing the will to live.
I came as quickly as I could.
Oh, Simon, thank God.
What do you want?
Ms. Fernsby needs you on stage.
You're the only one
who truly understands.
Take two of these now
and two before bed.
And promise me
you'll call me in the morning.
I promise.
Give me strength.
Ah, Graham,
thank you for joining us.
Let's take it from bar
two, three, four,
"When I sally forth,"
segue straight into
Graham's monologue,
and then into
the "Major General" solo.
I'll talk you through it,
Marcus.
♪ When I sally forth... ♪
And head over to
the treasure chest.
A bit more pirate swagger.
Tip it open with your sword.
Oh, never mind.
♪ ...than a well-bred monarch
ought to do ♪
Run your hands
over the treasure.
♪ Than many a king
on a first-class throne ♪
Then you see the crown.
♪ If he wants to call his crown
his own ♪
What now?
Shaila?
Oh, my God.
Uniform have taken
brief statements
from the cast and crew.
No one seems to recognize him.
They can't find an ID?
Nothing so far.
Ahoy there, me hearties.
Got a rum one here.
How did he die?
There's evidence of blunt-force
trauma to the head here.
But burst capillaries
in the eyes,
face, and neck area
suggest possible asphyxia.
Time of death?
I'd say he's been dead
for three to five days,
but placed in the chest
in the last 24 hours.
Now can you tell?
Skin color.
And volume of purge fluid.
Mind your step, Winter.
Don't want to ruin
those lovely shoes.
I'll be able to give you
a better idea
when I get him back to the lab.
Keep us posted.
Aye, aye, captain.
Who's in charge of props?
Shaila Handsworth,
stage manager.
She's waiting for us outside.
We collected everything from
the hire company yesterday.
- And "we" are?
- Me and Derek.
Derek Sharrow,
general stagehand.
And the pirate chest
is one of the props.
Yes. They needed everything set
for today's rehearsal.
Didn't leave till
around midnight.
Who else has access
to this building?
Anyone, really.
The only room that's ever locked
is the prop store.
Security cameras?
Lady Empson disapproves.
She wants everything just
as it was in her father's day.
Yeah. What's that building?
The estate office.
My husband, Graham's,
estate manager.
Well, tell him
we'll need to speak to him.
And where might we find
Lady Empson?
Phyllis took her back
to the hall.
If you follow the drive,
it'll take you there.
I'm so glad you didn't see it,
my darling.
It was absolutely awful.
I can't talk now, Dad.
I'm working.
Yes, Graham?
Same again,
and a whiskey chaser.
Make it a double.
- Any news?
- The police are up at the hall.
Lady Empson's had
one of her turns,
so I'm not sure they'll get
much sense out of her.
With any luck,
it'll finish her off.
Graham.
Do the police know
who he is yet?
They seem just
as mystified as we are.
Whoever our k*ller is
kept hold of the body
for at least three days
before placing it in the chest,
knowing it would be discovered
in a genuine coup de théâtre.
Someone that had a vendetta
against the company?
Or the Empson family?
Let's see if they
can enlighten us.
Didn't think doctors did
home visits anymore.
Not sure this is
your regular GP service.
That's on me.
Congratulations.
Thanks.
You okay?
Your dad seems more excited
about it than you do.
He got a place
at the Royal College,
but his dad made him
stay in the family business.
He's regretted it ever since.
So this is his dream.
We can't all be free spirits,
Phoebe,
floating around the world
in search of enlightenment.
You're welcome to join me.
First stop, Goa,
then who knows.
We're out of tonic, Phoebe.
My aunt suffers from arrhythmia.
The shock must have
triggered it.
Fortunate her doctor
was close by.
Dr. Charteris is very attentive.
Lady Empson is stable
but needs complete rest.
No interviews without
consulting me first, Inspector.
I'll bear that in mind.
You'll just have to make do
with me, then.
This way.
Just gonna make a quick
cast announcement.
Be right there.
You're a wonderful girl.
You know that?
It's been great having you
working for us.
I wish you could stay.
Everyone's waiting.
My grandfather,
Sir Huntley Empson,
became obsessed with Gilbert
and Sullivan in his youth,
founded the Midsomer Mummers,
and converted the mill
to stage his own
amateur productions.
And your family have continued
the tradition ever since.
It's who we are, Inspector.
We're even named from the canon.
Katisha from "The Mikado,"
Phyllis from "Iolanthe."
I just have to be grateful
I'm not called Yum Yum!
So this is your 100th year.
Mm. And it might be our last.
Why is that?
The mill is in need of
significant investment.
Half the roof tiles are missing,
foundation's crumbling.
What will you do?
Oh, the mill
and surrounding land
are on a different lease
to the estate.
Could be sold separately.
We've had some serious interest.
It's worth a fortune,
apparently.
- And would you sell?
- In a heartbeat.
Could build a new
purpose-built theater
near to the house
like a mini Glyndebourne.
Attract professional companies,
larger audiences.
- Sounds ambitious.
- But entirely within reach.
Sadly, Aunt Katisha
won't hear of it.
So there we are.
Now, how can I help you?
The victim's body was
deliberately placed
on the stage of your theater.
We need to understand why.
I have absolutely no idea.
Can you think of anyone
that bears your family
or the Mummers any ill will?
Just a group of
amateur enthusiasts,
popular with
the local community.
No thr*at to anyone.
The concert will be allowed
to go ahead?
We can't promise anything
at this stage, I'm afraid.
The estate is very
expensive to run, Inspector.
We rely heavily on income
from ticket sales,
Gilbert and Sullivan tours.
Any negative publicity
could be very damaging.
We'll know more tomorrow.
I'll be back to speak to
your aunt if she's well enough.
She'll be fine as long
as Simon Charteris
is kept well away.
He's convinced her
she's an invalid
when really,
she's strong as an ox.
Between you and me,
I think she's half
in love with him.
No fool like an old fool.
Phyllis Fernsby doesn't think
much of Dr. Charteris.
Can't say I blame her.
Do some digging into
the Midsomer Concierge
Medical Practice.
Who are they exactly?
And check out the Empsons
and their relationship
with the village.
Maybe it's not all quite
as amicable
as Ms. Fernsby
would like us to believe.
While today's been
a terrible shock,
I think we should treat it
more as an opportunity
than a disaster.
How do you mean?
We all know
how important fund-raising is
for the future of the mill.
The roof alone will cost
tens of thousands.
A few ticket sales is hardly
gonna change that.
Which is why we need to
reach out to a wider public.
There are fans of Gilbert
and Sullivan all over the world
who might just be willing
to help us with donations.
But how, Dad?
Like it or not,
m*rder attracts publicity,
so we capitalize on that.
Perform songs from the concert
for local press and radio,
post videos on social media,
G&S fan sites.
Don't you think that might
appear a little callous?
Jeremy's right. That poor man
will have friends, family.
Sad as it is,
he's a total stranger,
and I, for one, think
it's more important
to save the mill,
whatever it takes.
All those in favor?
So that's agreed.
I propose we meet on the village
green at 10:00 AM.
I won't have cover for Dad,
then, I'm afraid.
No, that's fine, Derek.
You're not needed.
You never really are.
Can I get another pint?
Don't you think
you've had enough?
If I had, I wouldn't be
ordering another, would I?
And don't wait up.
I won't be back tonight.
I can't keep covering for you.
You better had,
if you know what's good for you.
Any chance Marcus might let you
go a little bit early?
I'm feeling a bit shaken still.
Could do with the company.
Sorry, Dad.
Said I'd stay
till closing tonight.
- Pheebs.
- Same again?
Yeah, please.
You know what you said,
about me coming with you?
Do you mean it?
I never say anything
I don't mean.
Back in a sec, Dad.
If the police
come sniffing around,
you didn't see anything, okay?
I wasn't there.
♪ Tonight the traitor dies! ♪
♪ Away, away, tonight! ♪
♪ Tonight, tonight! ♪
♪ The traitor dies tonight ♪
♪ Away! ♪
♪ All is prepared,
your gallant crew awaits you ♪
How on earth do you know that?
Oh, I, um...
I... I, uh,
played Mabel at school.
But that's a girl's part.
Yes, there were only boys
at my school, Betty.
Trouble is, I didn't look
very good in a dress.
Can I see?
You can borrow one of Mummy's.
Excellent idea.
Time for teeth, Betty.
Any news on our
mysterious pirate?
Not yet, sir.
What are the chances of us
being canceled?
There's nothing to suggest
that the Mummers
are directly involved,
so unless that changes,
I'd assume it's going ahead.
Great.
Better keep rehearsing, then.
Let's go, Winter.
Don't tell Sarah,
but I've never been a huge
Gilbert and Sullivan fan.
Unlike Paddy.
♪ Away, away ♪
♪ Tonight the traitor dies ♪
Midsomer Concierge
Medical Practice.
It's a bespoke private
mobile GP service
for the discerning client who
prefers the more personal touch.
- And can spare a few quid.
- Yeah.
It's a small outfit
set up eight years ago
by Simon Charteris.
Faith Dunlow's
the practice coordinator,
- married to Marcus Dunlow.
- Our Pirate King.
The practice is very popular.
Everything seems above board.
Things are seldom as they seem.
Skim milk masquerades as cream.
What, sir?
It's a quote from
"H.M.S. Pinafore."
My Buttercup
was very well received.
Unlike you, I look rather
fetching in a crinoline.
Fleur needs us back at the lab.
Our pirate choked
to death on his treasure.
I found this
obstructing his airway.
That looks like
one of the prop coins.
Indeed, it does.
But this one's special.
"Tonight, the traitor dies."
That's from "Pirates,"
the song Sarah was practicing.
I had a boyfriend once...
Please don't tell me
you dated a pirate.
An opera singer.
Serenaded me from the stage of
La Scala on my 21st birthday.
♪ Dee, dah dah, dah, dah dah ♪
Why don't I have
any stories like that?
There's still time, sir.
We were happy then,
despite anything your mother
might have said to the contrary.
I never rely on
anyone's opinion but my own.
You've made that very clear.
I'm going to get dressed.
I thought the whole point of
you coming back from Australia
was for us to get to know
each other again.
It was.
Then why are you avoiding me?
Because at the moment
I walked through the door,
I felt like a disappointment.
Oh, Phoebe, that's not true.
I'm not that studious
little girl
that left nine years ago,
and you can't deal with that.
All I want is for you
to fulfill your potential.
Go to college or music school.
You've got a beautiful voice.
Or you could just
let me be happy.
I never should have come here.
So what have we got?
Well, the coin and the quote
give us a direct connection
between our victim
and the Midsomer Mummers.
The m*rder was
carefully planned,
theatrical, designed
to shock and intrigue.
But why? And we still don't know
who the victim is.
The Empson family seem to be
at the heart of it.
The body was placed
on their estate
on the stage
of one of their productions.
Why?
Has it got something to do
with the recent interest
in the mill
and the surrounding land?
The family don't just own
the estate and the grounds.
They own the village as well.
Maybe that caused
some resentment over time.
Well, I'll go back
to Brattlington Hall,
do some more digging.
And find Derek Sharrow.
Get his version of events.
See if he and Shaila Handsworth
are singing
from the same hymn sheet.
Morning, Faith.
Anything for me?
Lady Empson called.
She'd like a home visit.
I told her you had a full list,
but she wasn't happy.
She was in a dreadful state
last night.
- Tell her I'm on my way.
- Simon.
You can't.
What about your other patients?
Rearrange them.
Lady Empson is
our most important client.
I won't let her down.
Are you saying
this ghastly m*rder
has something to do with me?
If you could just
answer my question.
I've forgotten what it was,
it was so outrageous.
The inspector just wants to know
if there's anyone that bears us
or the Mummers any ill will.
How the devil should I know?
The villagers are all
your tenants, I believe.
And your point is?
It's his job
to establish the facts.
And yes, there can be
issues at times.
We have the power to evict
and raise rents,
which can cause resentment.
What has it got to do with
a corpse in a treasure chest?
This tea is stewed, Phyllis.
You mentioned you'd had interest
in the mill and the land.
We've had developers
chancing their arm,
but no one connected
with the village.
And as I said before,
my aunt would never sell.
Then why did you tell him
in the first place?
Someone was found m*rder*d
in our theater, Aunt Katisha.
We have to be transparent
or we'll be accused
of withholding information.
Accused?
We're not common criminals.
It's Graham Handsworth
you should be talking to.
Ghastly man.
We have been trying
to contact him.
May I ask why?
His office overlooks the mill.
He might have witnessed
something useful to the case.
I doubt he'd tell you,
even if he did.
Hates authority of any kind.
Graham can be challenging,
but he's excellent at his job,
and good estate managers
are hard to come by.
We just stay out
of each other's way.
Why have him in the concert
if he's so difficult?
The man has us over a barrel.
Graham is one of
our most popular players.
Audiences love him.
Although I have to say,
Inspector,
he has the face of a deviant.
Eyes way too close together.
That doesn't make him
a m*rder*r, Aunt Katisha.
Oh, Simon, darling.
I feel dreadful.
I thought we had an agreement,
Inspector.
Can't you see how unwell she is?
I said it was fine.
She was perfectly well
before you arrived.
Let's get you back to bed,
Katisha.
Take my arm.
Mr. Sharrow?
D.S. Winter.
Can I have a word?
How long have you cared
for your dad?
Well, a couple of years now.
Um, gave up work
when he had his stroke.
It's the least I could do after
everything he's done for me.
You talk me through
what happened the day
before the body was found.
We were at the mill.
Myself and Shaila had a lot
to set up for the run through.
And you were there all day?
Till about midnight.
Left around 3:00 PM
to collect the hire stuff,
but I was only gone
a couple of hours.
Did that include the gold coins?
No. They were ordered online
by Ms. Fernsby.
When did they arrive?
Three, four weeks ago.
We put them in the prop store
with everything else.
And that's kept locked?
Not during rehearsals.
The cast need to
be able to come and go.
Did you notice anything odd when
you returned the following day?
It all looked exactly
as we'd left it.
No unusual activity nearby,
cars, visitors
you didn't recognize?
Not that I recall.
Dad needs his medication.
Well, if you think of anything,
you call me.
I have to apologize for
my aunt's rudeness, Inspector.
My wife said
she's quite a character.
Oh, yes, of course.
You're married to Sarah.
Lovely soprano.
We're so grateful
she could join us.
Which reminds me, I really need
to go and support the troops.
Ah, yes, the photo call
on the green.
And I'm sorry about
that unpleasantness
with Dr. Charteris.
I'm surprised
he hasn't accused me
of cooking up the m*rder
to shock her
into an early grave.
I love my aunt, Inspector,
eccentric
and maddening as she is.
I wouldn't be here if I didn't.
And now I really must be going.
♪ Though a doctor of divinity ♪
♪ Resides in this vicinity ♪
♪ Though a doctor, a doctor ♪
♪ Resides in this vicinity ♪
♪ This vicinity ♪
Jeremy, Midsomer County Radio
would like to record
your "Major General,"
maybe take a few photos.
- Let me get my hat.
- Lovely.
- Shan't be a tick.
- Okay.
Graham, where are you?
Everyone's asking.
Sorry I'm so late.
Police were up at the house.
- You okay?
- Graham's gone AWOL.
I can't do this anymore.
Be over soon.
You have my word.
After the concert,
I'm out of here,
Booked myself in
an earlier flight.
And they've still got seats.
- Phoebe...
- Just...
say you'll think about it.
Ah, Jeremy, you look splendid.
The very model
of a modern major general.
- That's the idea.
- Jeremy, you're on.
Oh, you'll have to excuse me.
Celebrity calls.
Break a leg.
John, what are you doing here?
Looking for the elusive
Graham Handsworth.
He was in the estate office
yesterday afternoon.
He's potentially
an important witness.
He never turned up.
Why am I not surprised.
Listen, we're rehearsing again
tonight,
so you'll have to
get Betty her tea.
Maybe not pizza?
Something green this time.
- Sarah!
- Oh, looks like I'm needed.
I'll call you.
Graham Handsworth's not here.
Might be worth trying
the estate office again.
♪ I am the very model
of a modern major general ♪
♪ I've information vegetable,
animal, and mineral ♪
♪ I know the Kings of England ♪
♪ And I quote the fights
historical ♪
♪ From Marathon to Waterloo
in order categorical ♪
Who the hell are you?
D.S. Winter.
Here.
Graham Handsworth, I presume.
Possession of a firearm
with the intent
to cause fear of v*olence
is a crime.
Got ground-nesting birds.
I have to protect them
from predators.
And before you ask,
yes, I've got a license.
We were told there were
no cameras on the estate.
Only in here
to protect the wildlife.
Where were you before
yesterday's rehearsal?
Out here all morning.
Home for lunch,
then in my office.
Can anyone confirm that?
My wife.
Your office has a direct view
of the mill.
Did you notice any unusual
activity, strange vehicles?
Did someone say I did?
- Did you?
- No.
I was in the office.
And I was at rehearsal.
Saw nothing.
Did nothing.
Now, if you'll excuse me,
I've got work to do.
You forgot this.
When did he do that?
I lose track.
Oh, my darling.
Not here.
He might see us.
I will not let him
hurt you again.
I'm meeting Phoebe for lunch.
Luke, Phoebe is
an attractive girl.
But now is not the right time
to get involved.
You're going to college.
You don't need any distractions.
- You're jealous.
- Don't be ridiculous.
The way you are around her.
It's making her uncomfortable.
So I can't be friendly
to a member of staff now?
You know what I'm talking about,
Dad.
Back off.
Phoebe, it's Marcus.
Um, I need to see you.
Alone.
Thought you'd gone to work.
Clearly.
That's your house?
Oh, it's right on the beach.
Pretty wild, but beautiful.
A bit like you.
Same again?
Phoebe, it's Marcus.
Um, I need to see you.
Alone.
I told you, I was calling Phoebe
about work.
I thought she could do
with the extra shifts.
You asked to meet her alone.
Okay, but it's not
what you think.
Then what?
I've seen you staring,
following her around
like some lovesick teenager.
I wanted to talk to her
about Luke.
Then why lie about it?
I thought you'd stop me.
Think I was being
too heavy-handed.
About what?
Phoebe's leaving
to go traveling,
and she's encouraging him
to go with her.
He's young, easily influenced.
I just wanted to make her see
what a huge opportunity
he'd be giving up.
Handsworth's finger was
on the trigger,
so I'm lucky to be alive.
Well, at least you found him.
What did he say?
He said he can't help us, but
I'm not sure that I believe him.
Let's run some
background checks.
Maybe he's not
as clever as he thinks.
On a more positive note,
Fleur has had a result
on our, um, mystery pirate's
dental records.
His name is Vince Summersby.
He's a big player
in new-build housing.
Very successful, but not always
popular with his workforce.
He was accused of flouting
health and safety guidelines
but managed
to avoid investigation.
Where's his latest development?
It's an estate on the edge
of Crackstone.
Fleur's team are
on their way there now.
He was last seen four days ago
working late at the site office.
Uniform are patrolling the area
for evidence.
Odd that no one's
reported him missing.
He sounds like bit of a loner.
Not married, no children.
His PA said that he often
went well AWOL
and wasn't overly concerned.
Look into his business.
Find out if he ever expressed
interest in the mill site.
Sir.
Yeah, well, I've told the police
I don't know him,
so you better be right.
I'd say she's been dead
for approximately two hours.
Are we looking at foul play?
Lady Empson had underlying
heart issues.
An arrest could trigger a fall.
And falls cause
a significant amount of deaths
in the elderly, especially
those involving stairs.
But my team found these.
- What are they?
- Sedatives.
So her fall could have been
accidental due to medication?
All I can say with
absolute certainty
is that she took
a terrible tumble.
Whether she tripped,
her dicky heart gave out,
or she was given a good shove
is all up for grabs.
I'll know more when I've done
a full analysis of her injuries.
Who found her?
Her niece.
She's expecting us.
No more bodies today,
please, gents.
I've got a castanet master class
at 7:00.
Can't move on
to advanced flamenco without it.
Shall we get on, sir?
My aunt is what people
might call a drama queen.
Excitable. Highly strung.
She came to rely on
Dr. Charteris to calm her down.
With medication.
Do you know what she was taking?
Of course.
I gave a list
to one of your officers.
We left the hall together,
leaving your aunt
with Dr. Charteris.
Was anyone else at the house?
No.
That wasn't unusual.
And what time did you get back?
It was just after 1:00.
I gave Shaila a lift home
from the village.
I went in through
the kitchen entrance.
I heard music coming in
from the lounge.
I assumed she was waiting
for her lunch as usual.
She was perfectly fine
before Simon Charteris arrived.
You must have noticed,
Inspector.
It's all an act
to get his attention,
and he encouraged her
by playing along.
You seem very suspicious
of his motives, Ms. Fernsby.
With good reason.
The revised will benefits
Charteris big time,
which gives him motive.
And her. Anyone convicted of
m*rder or manslaughter
cannot inherit
from their victim.
If Ms. Fernsby successfully
framed Charteris,
the entire estate
would revert to her.
Leaving her free
to build her mini Glyndebourne.
She had a window of time
to create a believable scenario.
She is a theater director,
after all.
Talk to Shaila Handsworth.
See if she backs up
Ms. Fernsby's version of events,
while I talk to Simon Charteris.
According to Phyllis Fernsby,
you were the last person
to see Lady Empson alive.
When I left her, she was sitting
up in bed, full of beans,
planning what to wear
to the first night.
- What time was that?
- Just after 11:00.
Had an appointment
in Netherlipton at 11:30,
left there around 1:00.
Would anyone
be able to confirm what?
I'm starting to resent
your tone, Inspector.
You do know Lady Empson
had a serious heart condition.
Yes. We also understand
that Lady Empson
recently changed her will
in your favor.
We'd become very close.
She wanted to do something
to show her gratitude.
She must have been
very grateful, Dr. Charteris.
I didn't put under any pressure,
if that's what you're implying.
We'll need a copy
of her medical notes.
Might take a while.
Our computer system's down.
But I'll make it a priority.
I appreciate that, Doctor.
We'll be in touch.
So Summersby was m*rder*d here,
and four days later
turns up in a pirate chest
in Brattlington... why?
I followed up on your hunch.
I called the local planning
office, and you were right.
Summersby Construction expressed
interest in the mill site.
But Lady Empson didn't want
to sell.
Summersby wouldn't take no
for an answer,
claiming that the mill was
in need of immediate protection
due to their negligence.
- Isn't it listed?
- Not officially.
The Heritage Society
was strongly opposed
to the proposal,
but recently changed tack
in support of
Summersby's application.
Well, someone so terrified of
losing their beloved playhouse,
they decided
to eliminate the buyer.
Phyllis Fernsby did say
that the mill was a burden.
Could she have been doing a deal
behind her aunt's back?
Did Lady Empson find out?
Is that why she found herself
at the bottom of her staircase?
Or was it greed?
Dr. Charteris
keen to hasten her demise?
Where are we with his alibi?
We'll chase that up, sir.
If I could just have
a bit of hush.
For those of you
who have not yet heard,
I have some very sad news.
Earlier today,
Aunt Katisha passed away
after a tragic fall.
As the exact cause of death
is as yet unclear,
I would prefer not to
discuss this any further.
But there is no doubt
that she would have
wanted us to carry on.
In fact, she would have
insisted upon it.
And in return,
we must do our best
to make this concert
a fitting tribute
to Aunt Katisha
and her lifelong dedication
to this wonderful company.
Here, here.
Okay. Thanks.
Simon Charteris made
his meeting on time,
which means that he left
Brattlington Hall
when he said that he did.
So if Fleur's right
about time of death,
Charteris is in the clear.
What about Shaila Handsworth?
Her account matches
Phyllis Fernsby's.
She was dropped at home.
And Graham Handsworth?
She was expecting him home
for lunch, but he never arrived.
Handsworth said
that he went to the pub
and there are witnesses
that can confirm that.
What is it?
When I was interviewing
Graham Handsworth
at the Bird Reserve,
I noticed that there were
several wildlife cameras.
I thought they might
give us something,
so I went back, took the film,
got tech to take a look,
and seems that
I've struck lucky.
We're on in five minutes.
Jeremy?
Did you know Lady Empson well?
No, not especially.
I mean,
it's very sad, of course.
No, it's Phoebe.
I just can't seem
to do anything right.
You know, when Nikki announced
that she was
moving them back to Australia,
I was devastated.
It must have been lonely.
Yes, very.
So when Phoebe said
she'd like to stay for a while,
I saw it as a second chance.
Her life's been so chaotic,
Sarah.
Maybe you could just
step back a bit
and get to know
who Phoebe is now.
She asked to come here.
She wanted
to spend time with you.
But now that she has,
I'm not sure she really
likes me very much.
10 minutes' break, everyone.
Marcus got his sword
caught in the rigging,
so we're having to reset.
We need a quick word,
Mr. Sharrow.
Somewhere less public.
You cottage backs onto
the Brattlington estate,
- is that right?
- Yes. Why do you ask?
Were you anywhere near the hall
around midday today?
No, I was at home.
You sure about that,
Mr. Sharrow?
Yes, Winter saw me there
with Dad.
I-I don't understand.
Maybe this will help.
There was, uh, an issue
with the aviary.
Some of the birds escaped,
including my dad's favorite
Chinese painted quail.
- So you went after it.
- I had to get her back.
Dad's lost enough already.
So why lie?
Mr. Handsworth is very...
particular about
the bird reserve.
Prosecutes trespassers.
My father depends on me.
I can't afford
to get into any trouble.
So how did the birds get out?
I must have left the door open.
I've got a lot on my mind.
♪ Ah, must I leave thee here ♪
♪ In endless night to dream ♪
♪ Where joy is dark and drear ♪
♪ And sorrow all supreme... ♪
♪ And Nature, day by day ♪
♪ Will sing, in altered tone ♪
♪ This weary roundelay ♪
♪ "He loves thee... he is gone ♪
♪ Fal, la, la, la,
Fal, la, la, la ♪
♪ He loves thee...
he is gone." ♪
♪ Fal, la, la ♪
♪ Fal, la ♪
Heavens be praised,
we actually made it
to the interval.
Luke and Marcus, you need to run
that sword section again.
More swash, less buckle.
Everyone else, 15 minute break.
Luke.
Dad knows something.
About what?
The dead guy in the chest.
He's been lying to the police.
How do you know?
I heard him on the phone.
He's definitely
involved somehow.
What are you gonna do?
A little investigation
of my own.
The blood on the rag
is probably pheasant,
so we're no further on.
And Lady Empson?
The injuries sustained
in the fall
were not responsible
for her death.
And there's nothing to indicate
any physical v*olence.
Cardiac arrest,
plain and simple.
So there's no indication
of foul play.
I'm afraid there is,
and plenty of it.
Go on.
There were powerful sedatives
in her system,
as we suspected from the pill
bottle found at the scene.
Were they in
her medical records?
I wouldn't know.
I'm yet to receive them.
But that's not what k*lled her.
Then what did?
Illicitly produced
street opioids
50 times stronger than morphine.
That's the sedative.
That's the opioid.
They're identical.
Bingo.
So our k*ller deliberately
replaced her pills
with opioids with the clear
intention of causing her death.
Which triggered
the cardiac arrest
and the resulting fall.
Was there any evidence of
fingerprints on the pill bottle?
- Wiped clean.
- So whoever swapped the pills
knew she took
regular medication.
And did their homework to ensure
the desired outcome.
A doctor wouldn't have to.
He'd know that already.
Now.
- Well, that was close!
- I thought I made myself clear.
I've been watching you
with Phoebe.
And I've been watching you.
Luke, listen to me.
No, you listen to me for once!
I've made the decision.
When Phoebe leaves,
I'm going with her.
That's never gonna happen.
Do you understand me?
Or what?
You gonna k*ll me?
You seem to be doing a lot
of talking to the police.
What have you told them?
Nothing.
That better be true
for your sake.
♪ Take heart,
fair days will shine ♪
♪ Take heart ♪
♪ Take heart ♪
♪ Take heart ♪
♪ Take heart ♪
Well done, everyone.
That was wonderful.
Thank you all so much.
Dress rehearsal tomorrow.
Your call time
is 5:00 sharp, please.
And if anyone fancies
joining me at the pub
to toast Aunt Katisha,
the drinks are on me.
So what you want me to do?
Keep Dad at the pub
as long as possible.
Text me when he's leaving.
You forgot this.
Very forgetful today, it seems.
- You are coming?
- Of course.
I just have to finish up here.
I haven't forgotten my promise.
Derek, you head home.
I'm nearly done.
Only if you're sure.
Dad'll be on his own now.
Go. I'll be fine.
How did it go?
Well, musically,
it's sounding pretty good.
But everyone's so on edge.
Not surprising.
You got Marcus
with his midlife crisis.
Graham's being unpleasant
to everyone.
I even saw him threatening
poor Derek.
What about?
No idea.
Sounds like you
could do with this.
Thank you.
And Jeremy is really
struggling with Phoebe.
I told him to talk to her.
As long as you're not getting
too stressed out by it all.
Well, this is
definitely helping.
Is Betty okay?
What did you cook her, anyhow?
Oh, I just cobbled
something together.
It did have spinach on it.
Doesn't that count?
I'd like everybody to join me
in raising a glass to my aunt,
Lady Katisha Empson.
We shall not see her like again.
Katisha.
- Katisha.
- Katisha.
He saw us.
He's still at the mill.
He wants me to meet him there.
I don't understand it.
I left the ghost lights on.
You stay here.
I am not leaving you
alone with him.
I'll check the fuses.
Wait there.
Graham.
Graham.
I said no more bodies,
Inspector.
Beyond my control, I'm afraid.
Jose was about to
teach me the finer points
of a castanet roll.
And he'd made sangria.
Haven't had that
since Torremolinos, 1976.
If we could stick
to the job in hand.
Our murderous friend
had a lot of fun with this one.
These were in his eyes.
"False, unmerciful,
and truthless."
It's another lyric
from "Pirates."
Blunt-force head trauma,
multiple puncture wounds
to the torso.
I'd say he was
knocked unconscious,
then nailed to the mast
for maximum dramatic impact.
Cause of death?
On initial examination,
I'd say traumatic brain injury,
but the vivid redness
of his skin
indicates something
altogether more sinister.
Which is?
Poison.
A doctor would know
about poison.
Where are we with
Lady Empson's notes?
They came in overnight,
and all the dr*gs in her system
are on there.
Including the sedatives?
Charteris claimed that
she needed them for anxiety.
Her heart condition
was exacerbated by stress,
and the dose he prescribed her
was very low.
Anything else?
Yeah.
Finance checks on
Graham Handsworth
came back with something odd.
His bank balance
far exceeds his salary.
Where's the extra money
coming from?
Regular cash deposits.
Untraceable.
We need to talk to his wife.
Shaila didn't want to go home
after we found him.
It was very traumatic.
So please go easy on her.
What happened, Mrs. Handsworth?
Witnesses claim you came to
the pub in a state of distress.
I...
I told Derek I'd finish up
so he could go home to his dad.
So you were alone.
I made sure
everything was in order.
I thought Graham had gone,
but he was waiting for me.
Said he'd seen us together.
Called me disgusting.
So you and Phyllis Fernsby
are more than just friends.
We didn't want it to come out
like this.
It's our business.
Nothing to do with anyone else.
That's fine, Mrs. Handsworth.
We just need to know the facts.
At first,
I was terrified.
But when he hit me,
I just snapped.
I told him I was leaving him.
Graham said he'd k*ll me first.
We, um, found some discrepancies
in your husband's finances,
Mrs. Handsworth.
Regular cash deposits
that are unaccounted for.
Graham resented
the Empsons' privilege.
It was his way of
getting his own back.
What was?
Illegal poaching... deer,
pheasant, red birds, their eggs.
He plundered the estate
for what he could get
when he was supposed to be
protecting it.
And you were aware of this.
He made me lie for him.
I was too scared not to.
I thought if Phyllis found out,
she'd think
I'd betrayed her too.
I felt so trapped.
Shaila Handsworth now has her
freedom, but at what cost?
Some people will do anything
for love, sir.
Like give each other
false alibis.
You think they set up
Lady Empson's fall
so they could move in together?
It's possible.
But her husband's m*rder is
on another level of brutality.
It doesn't seem to fit.
Think she's physically capable
of pulling it off?
Not alone, that's for sure.
You knew Vince Summersby,
the man in the treasure chest.
You were helping him
get his hands on the mill.
The mill we're supposed
to be fighting to save.
How did you find out?
I heard you on the phone.
Who were you talking to?
Summersby's contact
at the planning office.
We were both involved,
had to get our story straight.
Involved in what?
I don't understand.
Summersby was blackmailing me.
How?
What had you done?
A complaint was made against the
school when I was headmaster.
It was quite unjust,
but would have finished me.
What kind of complaint?
Exam fraud.
Summersby was a governor,
had friends in high places,
made it go away.
But then it was payback time.
If the charge was unjust,
you could have fought it.
Publicly defended yourself.
But that's probably another lie.
Please, Phoebe.
I need your support.
My life could be in danger.
Then go to the police.
But you can't. Can you?
Because you lied to them.
To your friends.
To me.
What else are you lying about?
Nothing. I swear to you.
You make out
you're this holier-than-thou
pillar of the community.
If the police knew the truth...
Don't tell them, please.
I could lose everything.
I'm still your father.
We need a word, Mr. Sharrow.
How was your relationship
with Mr. Handsworth?
Didn't have much to do with him.
You sure about that?
A witness saw him
threatening you.
Why would he do that?
Just before that body
was discovered,
Graham went missing.
I was sent to find him.
I couldn't see him at first.
Then I heard voices,
followed them.
Graham was behind
the estate office
loading something
into a car boot.
What did he say?
Nothing.
But I could tell he was angry.
Later that night,
he turned up at my door,
told me to keep my mouth shut.
And the next day, when you came
asking questions, I...
He saw you.
Got the wrong idea.
He vandalized your aviary
as a warning.
I'd never have said anything.
No one crossed
Graham Handsworth.
Seems he scared a lot of people.
Sir, there's been an incident
in the surgery.
We've had break-ins before,
opportunist addicts,
but this feels different.
No forced entry, no alarms.
You said a filing cabinet
had been forced.
Yes, this one.
All patient files,
but nothing's missing.
And the pharmacy?
I went through
the digital inventory.
Nothing missing there, either.
Who knows the key codes
apart from you?
Dr. Charteris. That's it.
So what were they looking for?
I suggest you ask him.
We already have.
He said he had no idea.
It may well be true, but...
he's lied to you before.
So Charteris lied to delay
getting the notes to us.
Get the tech team
to check the files,
see whether they've
been tampered with.
Sir, what's the official line
on the Mummers?
Surely we have to
close them down now.
Not necessarily.
Graham Handsworth's
one of their leading me.
And I know someone
who could step into his shoes.
But I played Mabel, sir.
And I'm sure you'll make
an excellent sergeant of police.
You must be familiar
with the music.
- Yeah, but...
- The concert is tomorrow night.
What better place
for our audacious k*ller
to stage their final act?
And you'll be right there
when they do.
I'm sorry I'm late, everyone.
Thank you all
for being such troupers.
I'm sure we all agree
that the show must go on.
A big thank you to Jamie
for saving the day
at such short notice.
And Derek for working so hard
at restoring
and resetting the stage after,
well, the terrible events
of last night.
Now, as you all know, we have
a full dress run this evening,
but there are just a few songs
that I'd like to run through.
Shaila has the list.
So use this time to find your
dressing rooms, check props,
and collect your costumes
from wardrobe.
Let Faith know
if you have any concerns.
Sir.
The tech team worked
their magic with the CCTV.
Our medical practice intruder
is Marcus Dunlow.
You need to find out
what he was doing there.
- Bye, Luke.
- Has anyone seen Marcus?
He was looking for Phoebe.
Don't be scared.
- I just...
- Leave me alone.
You don't understand.
- Just let me...
- Understand what?
Come on, we're waiting.
Ah, Mr. Dunlow,
can I have a word?
About what?
About the break-in
at the surgery.
Can you give us a moment?
No, no, um...
They need to hear this too.
Your...
mother and I had a brief affair.
Which Faith knows nothing about.
It was reckless, meaningless.
Until she fell pregnant.
Nikki didn't know
who the father was.
Did Dad know?
He was more interested
in avoiding a scandal
than knowing the truth.
So, um...
we decided not to
pursue paternity.
I thought I'd dealt with it.
I made a deal.
Didn't want to hurt Faith
or you, Luke.
I had to know the truth.
So I, uh...
I, um... I got the alarm and
entry codes from Faith's phone
and, um, went to the surgery.
What were you doing there?
Jeremy and I used to
give blood together.
I remembered his blood group
was very unusual... AB-negative.
If Phoebe's blood group was O...
...it would be impossible
for Jeremy to be her father.
He said there were no more lies.
He promised me.
I wanted to believe him.
For all my instincts
to be wrong.
There's something else
you should know.
Dunlow had an affair
with Phoebe's mother
nine months before she was born,
and he was trying to find out
whether he was her biological
father or not.
- And he is.
- Poor Jeremy.
Don't feel too sorry for him,
sir.
He's been lying to us all along.
- He knew Vince Summersby.
- What? How?
Been working on his behalf
to acquire the mill site.
Phoebe found documents
in the house to prove it.
- You think you know someone.
- Should we arrest him?
Not yet.
Yes, he knew the victim,
but there's no evidence
to suggest he's our k*ller.
We need to
let this thing play out.
Oh, there's more, sir.
We've got a whistleblower
at Charteris's former practice.
Turns out he has a history
of grooming elderly patients.
- Does he, now?
- And he's been up to
his old tricks
here in Brattlington.
The tech team have confirmed
that Lady Empson's digital notes
were tampered with
after her death.
I'll talk to him.
I'm not needed
for at least an hour.
I want to be there.
We now know
the real reason you left
your previous practice,
Dr. Charteris.
You were accused of
grooming elderly patients
for financial gain.
Prescribing inappropriate
medication to hasten their end.
Nothing was ever proven.
Because your practice
covered it up.
Forced you to resign
to avoid a scandal.
I didn't k*ll Katisha.
So you have to believe me.
You lied about
your computer system
to buy yourself time
to falsify her medical records,
which Faith Dunlow
will attest to.
When I heard that Lady Empson
had d*ed so unexpectedly,
I panicked.
I knew it wouldn't be long
before these false
and vicious rumors
would resurface,
that I would be under suspicion.
Quite unjust.
You altered her notes
to cover your tracks,
which suggests
you had something to hide.
I made some small adjustments
to prevent any misunderstanding.
You can explain that to the GMC,
Dr. Charteris.
Your past
has finally caught up with you.
You're enjoying this,
aren't you, sir?
Is it that obvious?
He'll get struck off
at the very least,
and his previous victims
will finally get justice.
But is he our m*rder*r?
He's a direct beneficiary
in Lady Empson's will,
an expert in medication,
a serial liar.
But the other murders...
what's the connection?
Oh, it's Fleur.
She's had a breakthrough.
I'll go.
You're needed at the playhouse.
But sir...
Can't let them down now, Winter.
Break a leg.
Evening, all.
I can't believe
that I'm doing this.
It's for a good cause.
And high time you showed off
that lovely voice of yours.
Right, everyone.
This is a full dress run.
That means no stopping.
And any mistakes
must be covered up
as if it were the first night.
Toi toi toi. Break a leg.
Ah-harr!
Harr!
The lab finally identified
the toxin
that k*lled Graham Handsworth,
and it's rather unusual.
Datura stramonium,
also known as jimsonweed,
thorn apple,
or my particular favorite,
devil's snare.
Never heard of it.
That's because it's an extremely
dangerous South American weed
used as a poison on arrowheads
to incapacitate prey.
But instead of arrowheads,
our k*ller used nails.
How would they get hold of it?
It's rare.
But in other known cases,
the seeds had been accidentally
imported in bird food
and seeded themselves.
How tall does it grow?
Four to five feet.
Hello. Can I help you?
D.C.I. Barnaby.
Sorry to disturb you.
Nothing to worry about.
I just need a quick look round.
I won't be in your way
much longer, Mr. Sharrow.
♪ When a felon's not engaged
in his employment ♪
♪ His employment ♪
♪ Or maturing his felonious
little plans ♪
♪ Little plans ♪
♪ His capacity for
innocent enjoyment ♪
♪ 'Cent enjoyment ♪
♪ Is just as great as
any honest man's ♪
♪ Honest man ♪
♪ Our feelings we with
difficulty smother ♪
♪ 'Culty smother ♪
♪ When constabulary
duty's to be done ♪
♪ To be done ♪
♪ Ah, take one
consideration with another ♪
♪ With another ♪
♪ Happy one ♪
Same message... Whittingdale
could be next.
♪ He loves to hear the
little brook a'gurgling ♪
♪ Brook a'gurgling ♪
♪ And listen to
the merry village chime ♪
♪ Village chime ♪
♪ When constabulary duty's
to be done, to be done ♪
♪ A policeman's lot is not
a happy one, happy one ♪
And Luke, exit stage left
for your quick change.
Phoebe, stage right.
And Jamie, take a well-deserved
bow center stage.
And cue lights.
♪ Hush, hush! Not a word;
I see a light inside ♪
♪ The Major-General comes,
so quickly hide ♪
♪ Yes, yes,
the Major-General comes ♪
♪ Yes, yes,
the Major-General comes ♪
♪ Yes, yes,
the Major-General comes ♪
♪ Tormented with
the anguish dread ♪
♪ Of falsehood unatoned ♪
♪ I lay upon my sleepless bed ♪
What's going on, sir?
Whittingdale was
Derek Sharrow's teacher.
We need to find him fast.
He's not in his dressing room.
There's a message on the wall.
It looks like it's been written
in stage blood.
♪ And as I lay in bed awake ♪
♪ I thought I heard a noise ♪
There was similar
spelling mistakes
when Derek wrote the call sheet.
Shaila said he's dyslexic.
What on earth?
I need you to get
everyone out of here.
- Go with her, Sarah.
- Okay.
♪ So still the scene ♪
♪ It must have been ♪
♪ The sighing of the breeze ♪
This looks like real blood, sir.
♪ Sighing softly to the river ♪
♪ Comes the loving breeze ♪
♪ Setting nature all a-quiver ♪
♪ Rustling through the trees ♪
♪ Through the trees ♪
♪ And the brook
in rippling measure ♪
♪ Laughs for very love ♪
♪ While the poplars,
in their pleasure ♪
♪ Wave their arms above ♪
♪ Yes, the trees,
for very love ♪
♪ Wave their leafy arms above ♪
♪ Pretty brook,
thy dream is over ♪
♪ For thy love is but a rover ♪
♪ Sad the lot of poplar trees ♪
♪ Courted by a fickle breeze ♪
♪ Sad the lot of poplar trees ♪
♪ Courted by ♪
♪ Fickle ♪
♪ Breeze ♪
If you just step out
of the way, Mrs. Barnaby,
I need to say goodbye
to my mother.
You okay?
Did he say anything?
He... he said he needs to say goodbye
to his mother.
Wonderful singing, Mr. Sharrow.
You have a unique talent.
Thank you.
My mother thought so, too.
She believed I could be a star,
no matter what my father said.
I was gonna wait
till the opening night,
but I knew
the net was closing in.
I had to act fast
or it would be too late.
Too late for what?
I'm dying.
Asbestos-related lung disease
now too advanced to cure.
I received my diagnosis
the same day I found out
about Vince Summersby's plans
to destroy the playhouse.
- You knew him.
- He was my employer.
Demolition work, cash in hand.
Must be 20 years ago now.
He saw the asbestos report
and ignored it.
He knew he was signing
my death warrant.
So you decided
to get your own back.
He'd condemned me
to die of asphyxiation.
It felt like poetic justice.
Kept him in the boot
till it was time
for his big entrance.
And Graham Handsworth?
That started at school.
The daily torment, humiliation.
Now it was his turn
to feel terrified.
Why poison?
I wanted to see the agony
on this face.
I was in control now.
I enjoyed that.
But not as much as I enjoyed
watching Lady Empson
take her last miserable breath.
She k*lled my mother.
Worked her into the ground.
Never a single word of thanks.
When my father's health
started to decline,
she had no use for us anymore,
and we were evicted.
But you had tenants' rights.
Lady Empson made some lie
about jewelry going missing.
Branded my mother a thief
in front of the whole community.
The shame broke her.
And a year later, she was dead.
When I knew I was dying, too,
the time had come
to settle the score.
She was in agony.
Her eyes...
pleading for me to help her.
But I just stood there
watching her die.
Jeremy Whittingdale
was your teacher, I believe.
Is he dead?
No.
We got to him just in time.
He dismissed me as thick,
unteachable.
If he'd done his job properly,
my life could have
been different,
but he chose not to.
Where was your father
in all this?
You gave the impression
that he'd been good to you.
I lied.
He made my mother's life a
misery till she d*ed, then mine.
You can't win anymore, Dad.
He kept us both caged.
Just like his birds.
I'm so sorry.
She's your daughter, Marcus.
Talk to her.
Thanks for your help, Jamie.
Faith is so grateful.
It's my pleasure.
See you tomorrow, sir.
Yeah, good night.
Well, I think
I'll head up to bed.
What are you doing?
I always thought I'd look rather
good as a Victorian bobby,
and, um, you've always loved
a man in uniform.
♪ For I am the Pirate King ♪
♪ And it is, it is
♪ For I am the Pirate King ♪
Well...
I'll, um...
I'll leave you to it.
Jamie?
Yep?
Hat.
Good night, me hearty.
22x05 - For Death Prepare
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Based on the crime-novel series by author Caroline Graham, `Midsomer Murders' follows the efforts of Detective Chief Inspector John Barnaby to solve crimes that occur in the wealthy, isolated English county of Midsomer.
Based on the crime-novel series by author Caroline Graham, `Midsomer Murders' follows the efforts of Detective Chief Inspector John Barnaby to solve crimes that occur in the wealthy, isolated English county of Midsomer.