Chapter 6
SCENE #62 – EXT – MAIN DECK, S.S. MAJESTY – DAY, EVENING
On the main deck, the Doctor, Billy, Mickey and Alonzo burst out through the door looking around to see if they can find any sign of the native who was lurking earlier. They find no sign of him anywhere.
BILLY
He’s gone Doctor. Whoever he was. Just skived off!
DOCTOR
It could have been ‘she’. We don’t know exactly who or what he or she was.
MICKEY
So, there are people who live on this island.
DOCTOR
Of course! And they’ve become aware of our presence! Now we’ve become aware of theirs.
ALONZO
Do you think he’ll come back again? The native that was here earlier.
DOCTOR
Oh, I’m certain of it! And I suspect he’ll bring with him a few friends with him to keep him company next time he visits.
MICKEY
More? There’s more of them out there?!
DOCTOR
Quite so!
BILLY
(calls) Doctor? Come over here! Take a look down there on the sand!
The Doctor joins Billy to look over the side of the ship. They see what they see treaded in the sand below.
DOCTOR
Footprints. Definitely footprints of the natives. Wearing shoes. Well, at least they don’t dress about barefoot.
BILLY
Like the Gren, you mean?
DOCTOR
Exactly like the Gren.
BILLY
(gradually) Nyssa said she saw one of them. She said he was wearing a mask that looked horrible. Do you suppose they have weapons to make them armed?
DOCTOR
I suspect that would be the case, Billy. Natives with little resources and technological innovation are bound to go basic in their culture. (Pause) Hello! What’s this?
BILLY
What’s what?
DOCTOR
There’s a line of fabric sewn on the hem of the ship’s side. Made from dead leaves. Possibly from what the person was wearing.
MICKEY
Why would they come to this ship and then run off like that in a hurry, Doc?
DOCTOR
Curiosity. They wanted to know who we are, so they sent their spy. The spy got caught and ran away in fear.
The Doctor sniffs the fabric made out of dead leaves with his nose.
BILLY
(puzzled) What are you doing sniffing the fabric with your nose?
DOCTOR
Intrigue. And for my own curiosity. Want to see if I can sense what tribe this is from to determine what island we’re on.
MICKEY
(curiously) Does it help?
DOCTOR
(sniffs) No. Not one bit.
BILLY
Oh. Well, that’s a bit of a waste then.
The Doctor throws the fabric away over his shoulder.
ALONZO
Perhaps we should all go back inside. Keep ourselves safe away from the natives.
DOCTOR
Good idea, Mr. Smith. About going back inside. And while we’re at it, could we chat to your wife and ask something about her?
Alonzo reluctantly agrees, before they all go back inside.
SCENE #63 – INT – DINING ROOM, S.S. MAJESTY – DAY, EVENING
Back inside the dining room of the Majesty, everyone’s gathered together and calmed down. The Doctor, Nyssa and Billy meet up with Anna Smith who explains to them about herself.
ANNA
It’s something I had…ever since I was a little girl. I can’t explain it. Ever since I was small, I can see things. Things of the future. Tiny things. Tiny fragments. People say I have a sixth sense and I’m lucky. But it’s more than that.
NYSSA
Please, Mrs. Smith! It’s not something to be ashamed of. Many people have psychic and telepathic abilities. We’re not ridiculing you for that.
ANNA
Oh but…I’m happy with the gift I have. It’s done me and my family some good. I’m pleased to be a telepath.
ROGER
Too right. Why we wouldn’t be here where we are now. On this ship. For a cruise.
ARTHUR
Dad won us a free family ticket to come on this voyage. Through a newspaper. And mum knew all the answers and the time to send our response in the post.
JUDY
Isn’t that a bit cheating? Just for a free cruise?
ALONZO
We’re not millionaires like yourself, Miss Garland. But we do bets on the horses every week and get the odd ten dollars. For lucky spending.
MICKEY
Sounds like you’re a happy family living a happy life.
BETSEY
Oh we are. And we wouldn’t be happier to see you Mickey and you Judy on this cruise maiden voyage.
ROGER
Will you stop it, Betsey?
Moment of silence.
DOCTOR
Anna, we need your help in getting us off this ship. Do you think you can help us?
ANNA
I’ll do whatever I can. I’d be happy to get us all home.
DOCTOR
Very good. But first, Nyssa needs to ask you something.
NYSSA
(gradually) Anna, I have latent telepathic abilities myself. I can sense premonitions and things from the future like you do.
ANNA
You do?
NYSSA
Yes! Like yourself, they’re not so well enhanced. But with the two of us together we can see things more clearly. Would you mind if I tapped into your ability and we can share what visions you’re seeing more clearly for a short while?
ANNA
(uncertain) Well…I…
NYSSA
It won’t be permanent. Just for two minutes. That’s all it takes.
Anna thinks for a moment.
ANNA
I’d be happy to help out. Of course you can share minds with me.
ALONZO
Anna, you don’t have to do this if you don’t want to.
ANNA
No. I must. If it means getting us all back to L.A., our kids and us two Alonzo, then I have to do this. I know it’s what I have to do.
NYSSA
Thank you, Mrs. Smith. If you just sit back and relax, I’ll gently tap into your mind.
BILLY
Nyssa, I don’t think you should do this.
NYSSA
(reassuringly) It’s alright, Billy. I’ll be fine. I know what I’m doing. You won’t lose me, I promise.
DOCTOR
(reassuringly) Nyssa’s right. She knows what’s doing. Now let her do what she thinks best.
BILLY
(grudgingly) Alright then. Whatever you say.
NYSSA
Thank you, Billy. (to Anna) Are you ready, Mrs. Smith?
ANNA
Please. Call me Anna. And yes, I’m ready, Miss Nyssa.
NYSSA
Very well, Anna. Just calm your mind and relax. Take a deep breath.
Anna takes a deep breath, as Nyssa towards her and places her hands on Anna’s sides of her face.
NYSSA
(soothingly) Just take it easy now, Anna. This won’t hurt a bit.
With that, Nyssa begins to probe into Anna’s mind, as they both share thoughts with one another through telepathy.
JUDY
Say, your girlfriend, Billy…I mean, your wife? Is she from around here?
BILLY
If you mean Nyssa’s local, then no. She’s not from Cardiff like I am.
MICKEY
Then where does she come from then?
BILLY
Traken. She’s from the planet Traken. That’s where she got her telepathic abilities.
JUDY
(stunned) From the planet Traken? You don’t mean…you mean to say she’s an alien. From outer space.
BILLY
That’s right.
MICKEY
(stunned) You’re married to an alien from outer space!
BILLY
Not all aliens are green and ugly. Nyssa’s people look just like you and me. Even the Doctor’s alien and he can still look human.
JUDY
What?! You’re an alien too, Doctor?
DOCTOR
Yes. Hope that doesn’t bother you.
MICKEY
Time travel in a blue box, outer space and now aliens. I’d rather just go back to my music and movies in Hollywood!
JUDY
Ssh! Something’s happening with Nyssa and Anna!
They look and see that Nyssa and Anna seem to be writhing and agitated whilst connecting in their physic abilities.
BETSEY
Mom?! Mommy, are you alright?!
ROGER
(anxiously) Mom, speak to us! Speak to us!
ALONZO
Anna, my dear?
BILLY
Nyssa, sweetheart! We’ve got to break her out of it!
DOCTOR
No, Billy! Trust me! Watch! I think Nyssa and Anna are onto something.
All watch as they see Nyssa and Anna mumbling phrases and words out loud whilst in connection to one another.
ANNA
(entranced; loudly) The natives! They wear such horrid masks and carry deadly spears! They protect this island! To them, it is sacred!
NYSSA
(entranced; loudly) But they’re not the real danger! The real dangers lie deep in the jungles! Wild creatures lurking! Wild things! Lions, tigers and bears!
ANNA
(entranced; loudly) The island is big! So vast and wide! Grown over with jungle and vegetation!
NYSSA
(entranced; loudly) Rivers run through it! Many hills and valleys covering the landscape!
ANNA
(entranced; loudly) Bridges to cross over! Natural bridges! Ones that are too dangerous to tread!
NYSSA
(entranced; loudly) But there is more! More dangerous things to worry about! Than mere wild animals and natives!
ANNA
(entranced; loudly) A castle! A majestic castle living in the center of the island. So pretty and heart-warming to look at!
NYSSA
(entranced; loudly) But…but…it is the heart of the danger! That is where they are going! Where the three trespassers are heading!
ANNA
(entranced; loudly) They will use the treasure! To control all they want on this island! All the natives who live in villages.
NYSSA
(entranced; loudly) And the singers! They’ll use the singers to keep the natives enlightened! All the days for the rest of their lives…
Suddenly, the strain becomes too much, and Nyssa and Anna collapse and faint. Billy comes round beside Nyssa, whilst Alonzo and the kids come beside Anna.
BILLY
Nyssa! Nyssa, are you alright? Nyssa, speak to me!
ALONZO
Anna! Anna, my dear! Come on, wake up!
Eventually, Nyssa wakes up and comes to looking into Billy’s eyes.
NYSSA
(wearily) Billy! It’s alright now. I’m fine. Don’t worry about me.
BILLY
(happily) Welcome back! I’m so glad you’re still in one piece.
DOCTOR
(to Alonzo) Alonzo? How’s Anna? Is she alright?
ALONZO
She’s fine, Doctor. Thank you for asking.
ANNA
I’ll be alright, Doctor. Don’t worry about me. My head’s clearer now.
NYSSA
(wearily) Doctor? I’m sorry! I couldn’t make much sense of what me and Anna experienced. It was clear one moment now it’s all a blur. The memories of it are fading.
DOCTOR
Don’t worry, Nyssa. I think you’ve given us all the information we need. Information on what’s at stake for the Captain and his recce group; and what the threesome criminals are planning.
Grim silence, as the Doctor ponders on what’s happening with everyone else in the room.
SCENE #64 – EXT – JUNGLE FOREST, ISLAND – DAY, EVENING
In the jungle forest on the south of the island, the captain with his recce group of sailors are exploring to try and search for the inhabitants who live on this island.
SAILOR #1
(anxiously) Captain?
CAPTAIN
Oh what is it now, Sailor? Can’t you see we’re on an exhibition?! We must tread carefully.
SAILOR #1
I understand that, sir. Yes, indeed. But I…
SAILOR #2
We were wondering what we’re going to do when we find the natives who live on this island. How do we approach them?
CAPTAIN
Why, my men?! I should have thought that was obvious! We take the natives into our custody and force them to direct to where their leader is. Then we’ll make for the village or whatever place the natives live in.
SAILOR #1
Isn’t that a bit drastic, sir?
CAPTAIN
(shocked) Drastic?! You call that drastic?! Are you questioning my methods, Sailor?
SAILOR #1
No, sir, not at all. Not one bit, sir. It’s just…
SAILOR #2
Shouldn’t we approach this more tactfully? If we are to gain the natives’ cooperation shouldn’t we use less violence? They might get agitated if we become foreboding and threatening towards them!
CAPTAIN
They’re primitive savages, sailors. They don’t understand our ways or how we should treat them. They must be cohered. It’s the only language they understand.
SAILOR #1
Well, I don’t like it, sir. I don’t like this forest either. It’s too creepy and sets you on edge. I feel nervous being here.
SAILOR #2
So do I, sir! Who knows what lurks in these jungle forests. What animals may lie here that will catch us if we’re not careful.
CAPTAIN
You two are the wettest sailors I’ve ever had in my recce. Stop worrying so much. Nothing’s going to happen to us whilst we’re here. Nothing!
Suddenly, roars echo from nearby. The sailors tremble whilst the captain is uneasy.
SAILOR #2
Are you sure about that, sir?
SAILOR #1
That was a lion! It must be a lion!
SAILOR #2
It could easily be a tiger! Or even a bear! It sounded like a tiger to me!
CAPTAIN
It sounded like you two are getting really annoying. Be brave, men! Be brave! We can deal with measly cats and bears walking about in this jungle!
The roars’ echo comes again. The two sailors can’t take it anymore.
SAILOR #1
I’m not staying here to get slaughtered by wild animals!
SAILOR #2
Me neither! Let’s get out of here!
SAILOR #1
I’m with you! Come on, let’s go!
CAPTAIN
(shouts) Get back here, you numskulls! Get back here, I say! Get back!
SAILOR #1
Run for your life, Captain! Run for your life!
CAPTAIN
(shouts) Get back here!
But it’s no use as the two sailors have already gone. The Captain is left on his own in the jungle, feeling rather frustrated.
CAPTAIN
Typical! Just typical cowards! And they came so highly recommended!
Just then, the roars echo again. The Captain is now on edge, as he treads very slowly whilst the growls and moans go on for a little longer than usual. This lasts for ten seconds.
CAPTAIN
(apprehensively) Nothing can scare me! Not me old captain! I can brave anything on an island! Anything that’s wild or strange!
The Captain continues to tread more carefully as he walks through the jungle.
CAPTAIN
Show yourself! I’m not afraid! Show your beastly nature in front of me! I’ll show you who’s captain around here!
More roars echo behind him. The Captain suddenly becomes afraid and makes a run for it through the jungle. He stops in his tracks, as he comes across two Gom natives who catch him out.
CAPTAIN
(satisfied) Whoa! You…who are you?!
GOM #1
Yiybe haerb hewr ebr shweuge bygw. Wuf wuf wegab! Jiuwr gaowur! Hec buhehe oqutof juwg juwg!
CAPTAIN
Ah! So, you would be the natives who live on this island! Well, it’s good you came when you should have done! Now I need to see your leader…
But the Captain gets knocked out by the first native who wracks him out, and he falls to the floor unconscious. The first native turns to the second.
GOM #1
Yebeh yh. Fwu fug if hbeg! Hwiryw gweb ufwuf gwug wuwebwe! Uheg! Bwg! Ouwrt!
GOM #2
He hyuw! (to natives) Ifwug! Ohg wbwgh iwh gwug bw!
The second native obeys the first native as he begins to lift up the Captain from the ground. Soon then natives head back for their village, carrying the Captain with them.
SCENE #65 – INT – DINING ROOM, S.S. MAJESTY – DAY, EVENING
Back at the SS Majesty in the dining room, the Doctor and others discuss the current situation, following the recent mind link between Nyssa and Anna.
DOCTOR
So we know that there are people who live on this island. That’s good to know. And it’s also clear that these natives may not be so easy to deal with.
NYSSA
They wore horrid masks but I couldn’t sense clearly whether they mean harm to us or not. (to Anna) I think it’s the same for you, isn’t it Anna?
ANNA
The voices they have and the language they use. It’s so hard to understand. It’s like talking gibberish.
MICKEY
You said there were animals that lived in the jungles of this island. Wild animals.
BILLY
Lions, tigers and bears. I think that was it.
JUDY
Lions, tigers and bears?
MICKEY
That’s it, Judy!
JUDY
Oh my!
BETSEY
(panics) We’re going to die! From lions, tigers and bears on the island!
ARTHUR
(groans) Oh, I knew it was hopeless! We’re never going to get off this island!
ROGER
Die? How can we die out here?! We can’t die!
ALONZO
Alright, children, try to keep calm!
ARTHUR
Don’t you tell me to keep calm, father! There’s nothing to keep us calm!
BETSEY
(sobs) I want to go home! I just want to go home!
ROGER
Stop it, Betsey! Just stop it! You’re not helping!
DOCTOR
(out loud) Alright, everyone, keep calm! Try not to panic!
NYSSA
The Doctor’s going to sort everything out, we assure you!
ROGER
The Doctor?! What can one man do to save all of us?!
BILLY
Hey listen, mate! The Doctor’s a clever guy! And if he can think to get us a way out of this mess he can! (to Doctor) Can’t you, Doctor?
DOCTOR
I’m working on it, Billy! I’m working on it very slowly. (to Nyssa; Anna) There was one other thing about your mind-link, wasn’t there Nyssa; Anna?
NYSSA
Yes! It’s come back to me! A majestic castle! In the centre of the island!
ANNA
So pretty and beautiful to look at. But it is the heart of danger.
BILLY
And where our doppelganger-like doubles are heading for. You saw that, didn’t you?
NYSSA
Yes! It was vague but I’m sure they were heading for the castle. For what reason I hazard to ascertain or confirm.
DOCTOR
Well, don’t worry, Nyssa; Anna. It’s something to work on step by step. And that’s where we got to go!
MICKEY
You mean to say you’re going to go looking for this castle?
BILLY
But the island is too big, Doctor. Too wide as the eye can see. It’s bound to take days to look for that castle.
DOCTOR
Not if we start from the beginning and follow the right path.
JUDY
Follow the yellow brick road?
DOCTOR
Something like that, yes, Judy. Though sand isn’t exactly yellow and it’s greyer, it should provide us a starting point.
NYSSA
Then let’s wait until tomorrow morning, Doctor. We should make a head start after a good six hours sleep.
DOCTOR
I didn’t say you were going, Nyssa.
NYSSA
You didn’t have to. I know you plan to go on your own. But you’re not leaving me behind.
BILLY
Nor me. I have to look after Nyssa as much as you, Doctor. She is my wife and this was meant to be our honeymoon.
NYSSA
You see, Doctor. So you can’t go out on your own in the jungle.
DOCTOR
I see. And there’s nothing I can say to change both your minds?
BILLY
No, Doctor.
NYSSA
Absolutely not.
DOCTOR
(sighs) Very well. But we make an early start in the morning. I want to make sure we set off on first light as soon as possible.
MICKEY
Say, shouldn’t we have guards out on night. Just so we don’t get any unexpected surprise visitors on our doorstep.
JUDY
Like that wild man or woman who boarded our ship.
BETSEY
Oh no! I can’t bear to have that happen again at night!
BILLY
I can keep watch at night. If anyone would keep me company.
NYSSA
I’ll join you on guard, Billy dear.
BILLY
Oh no, Nyssa, I wasn’t thinking you should…
NYSSA
(interjects) I can keep awake for you so long as you keep awake for me. And provided we keep alert at all times.
ARTHUR
I can take up watch from you two for half the night. Give you two a chance to sleep. I’m sure Roger would be happy to accompany me.
NYSSA
Thank you, Mr. Roger. It’s really appreciated.
ROGER
(protests) Me?! Why should I go out there and join you?
ARTHUR
Cos you’re my younger brother! And you do as I say!
DOCTOR
(gratified) Splendid! Well, now that’s sorted, I suggest we all get our heads down and get some sleep. Not you Nyssa and you Billy, of course. You stay on watch tonight.
Everybody goes to get some sleep, whilst Nyssa and Billy go out to watch on guard whilst the night passes.
SCENE #66 – EXT – S.S. MAJESTY, BEACH – NIGHT
It’s now night-time. Outside, Nyssa and Billy stand on guard and keep watch alongside the SS Majesty’s ship exterior. The night is calm and soothing as Nyssa and Billy watch on patrol together and explore a little of the island beach together.
BILLY
Not exactly what I had in mind for our ocean cruise romantic honeymoon. Sorry about all this, Nyssa dear.
NYSSA
Don’t be silly, Billy. This is hardly your fault. You weren’t expecting this to happen as much as I was. I’m glad we’re still together. Despite the consequences.
BILLY
You really mean that?
NYSSA
(shrewdly) It’s highly unlikely that I’d be lying to you.
Billy giggles, as he puts his arms around Nyssa whilst they walk together.
BILLY
I love you, Nyssa. I love you so much!
Billy kisses Nyssa on the cheek.
NYSSA
I know you do, Billy dear. I know very well.
BILLY
Oh good. (Pause) Of course it was never meant to happen.
NYSSA
Pardon?
BILLY
Oh, yes! I never intended for this to happen. To successfully fall in love with you. I never had it in mind.
NYSSA
But surely you had feelings the moment you first met me, Billy dear?
BILLY
Oh yes of course! But those feelings of ‘fancying you’ rather than ‘loving you’. I just didn’t think it would lead us to where we are now. Us being married. It’s a huge leap from mere fancying to becoming girlfriend and boyfriend to eventually becoming man and wife. It’s so extraordinary, it’s hard to believe.
NYSSA
That’s the improbability theory coming into place. There are not many infinite levels of probability that it’s hard to decipher what occurs in any relative future time.
BILLY
You and your scientific knowledge.
NYSSA
I do take your meaning though. It is unexpected. And I’m very happy with the way things have turned out for both of us.
BILLY
I remember a song Judy sang in one of her films that inspired me to be in the place I was back then to here now.
NYSSA
Ah, Judy Garland. She certainly is an influence lately. You have been really inspired by her.
BILLY
Well, I was inspired by plenty of the films Judy and Mickey Rooney did together. Their films were highlights of my childhood. I cherish every moment I have of seeing them. I don’t regret watching them.
NYSSA
So, what is this song that inspired you then?
BILLY
Hmm?
NYSSA
The song that Judy sang to give you inspiration to where you are now.
BILLY
Oh, yes! It’s a song Judy sang from a film called ‘Broadway Melody of 1938’. She was really good in that one. In the scenes she did. She was 14 years old when she did that movie!
NYSSA
What was it called? The song I mean?
BILLY
‘You made me love you! I didn’t want to do it! I didn’t want to do it!’ (Pause) Would you like to sing it for you? I’d be very happy to you here and now as we stand.
NYSSA
Don’t you feel embarrassed about singing out loud and out of context when nobody’s watching? It doesn’t usually happen in real life. People bursting into song.
BILLY
Well, everybody’s on board the ship sleeping. And it is a love song. I can sing it as quietly for you as much as you like.
NYSSA
Oh very well. Go ahead then. I’d love to hear you sing the song.
Billy happily places Nyssa to a seat on the rocks, as he begins to get himself into an up-close position towards her. Billy looks into Nyssa’s face as he sings the song ‘You Made Me Love You! (I Didn’t Want To Do It)’ from ‘Broadway Melody of 1938’.*(Song #6) Whilst Billy sings the song, Judy comes out from the ship and listens to hear him sing to Nyssa as she’s intrigued by him singing one of her songs. Eventually after a few minutes, Billy finishes singing to Nyssa. Both laugh happily together as Judy still listens by.
BILLY
Liked it?
NYSSA
(gratified) That’s a beautiful melody, Billy. I didn’t know you had it in you. I hadn’t realise you can sing so sweetly.
BILLY
Well, there are plenty of surprises left in me you have to look for I suppose. Same for me as in you I expect.
NYSSA
And you really mean what you said in those lyrics. About your lyrics towards me.
BILLY
I’d like to think so. It’s what kept me going to where I am today.
NYSSA
Billy, you’re the sweetest person I’m happy to have ever married.
Nyssa leans forward and kisses Billy on the lips. Both of them embrace in a hug, before Judy suddenly clears her throat and interrupts them. Nyssa and Billy stop kissing and look to see Judy behind them.
BILLY
Judy! Sorry! We didn’t expect to see you there!
NYSSA
We hope we didn’t wake you up. With Billy’s singing.
JUDY
No, no. It’s quite alright. I just couldn’t sleep. Though I might get some fresh air and clear my head a little. (Pause) You got a very good clear singing voice, Billy.
BILLY
(pleased) Thank you Judy. I’m glad you like my singing.
JUDY
I’m glad one of my songs inspired you the way you sang it. It’s from one of my earliest films.
BILLY
Yes I know. And one of your greatest tiny performances I expect.
JUDY
You know Hollywood could do with a pretty voice like that. Perhaps I should give you a recommendation to the MGM studios. When we get back that is of course to L.A.
BILLY
(hesitantly) Err…I don’t think that’s a good idea, thank you, Judy.
At that moment, Roger and Arthur appear.
NYSSA
Ah! Is it half the night?
ARTHUR
It certainly is. We’ll take over from you now, Mr. Billy and Mrs. Nyssa.
ROGER
Yeah. It’s more than our pleasure’s worth.
BILLY
Thanks guys. Well, come on, Nyssa. Let’s get back inside and have some sleep before the morning comes.
NYSSA
Of course! I’ll be happy for a refreshing sleep. (giggles) Come on then. Let’s get inside before one of us goes crazy.
BILLY
Don’t I know it? (to Judy) See you in the morning, Judy. Have a nice sleep now.
JUDY
Yes. Thank you, you two.
NYSSA
Goodnight, Roger. Goodnight, Arthur.
ARTHUR
Goodnight both.
ROGER
Have a nice sleep now.
Nyssa and Billy make their way back inside the ship, whilst Judy watches them go with Roger and Arthur out on guard.
ROGER
They’re so sweet together. Why can’t I have any of that?!
ARTHUR
They’re a sweet couple, aren’t they, Miss Garland? (Pause) Miss Garland?
JUDY
(moodily) Yes, very sweet the pair of them. Very sweet indeed.
Eventually, Judy makes her way back into the ship, leaving Roger and Arthur on guard.
SCENE #67 – INT – JUDY’S CABIN, S.S. MAJESTY – NIGHT
Judy eventually returns to her cabin after a breath of fresh air. But she’s still unsettled. She’s feel rather restless following encounter Nyssa and Billy’s romantic interlude. She sighs deeply to herself.
JUDY
Oh, what has got into me anyway?! (Pause) I should be thinking of how great a movie star I’m going to be. With all those films to look for. And…yet I feel lonely.
Judy sings ‘I Ain’t Got Nobody’ from ‘Strike Up The Band’ for the first part of this scene.*(Song #7)
JUDY
Like I’ve got nobody to have to care for and love in the whole world. Like those two have each other. Nyssa and Billy. (Pause) I shouldn’t be acting like this. I should be happy. Being able to act with Mickey Rooney in the movies. And soon to be acting with all sorts of stars. Bing Crosby, Fred Astaire, Ginger Rogers, Bob Hope and all the greats. All that jazz! (Pause) And yet I feel like this. Wanting to be loved. (Pause) Love and fan attention isn’t the same. It’s a passing fancy. And a passing fancy I got. There’s no hope for a movie star like me. So young and inexperienced. To expect great things in life. Such as a love and a mate to cherish.
Judy then finishes the rest of her song in her cabin for the rest of the scene.*(Song #7)
SCENE #68 – EXT – JUNGLE FOREST, ISLAND – DAY, MORNING
Next morning at the crack of dawn, Pugsley, Snowy and Buster tread their through the jungle as they’re now walking on a clear path. Pugsley is way ahead whilst Snowy and Buster are lagging behind.
SNOWY
(groans) Oh stop, stop, STOP!!! I can’t stand this walking! I need a rest!
PUGSLEY
No, you don’t! I gave you two a chance to rest when night fell. You had your sleep okay?!
SNOWY
Not enough apparently.
BUSTER
Oh, are we nearly there yet? This forest can’t go on forever. We have to be closer.
PUGSLEY
Of course, we’re closer! We’re on the path see! The path leading to the castle!
BUSTER
That don’t mean a thing. Unless you got a map. Which we haven’t.
SNOWY
I should never have listened to you coming on this trip to the island, Pugsley! Give me cat burglary any day back in the city!
PUGSLEY
Where’s your sense of adventure?! Can’t you feel it?! The excitement on wanting to be on a adventure like this?!
SNOWY
I must have left it when we were in that storm getting here.
BUSTER
Same here. I never felt so deflated over something as big as this.
PUGSLEY
But I have the pearl ring! The pearl ring essential to this island! We can’t falter from our journey now!
SNOWY
Big deal?! What’s the use of a pretty pearl ring! Even though it looks spiffing spectacular!
PUGSLEY
This ring is to the key to get us into this castle. To control the power inside this castle.
BUSTER
Here we are again! You forget to tell us information we need to know. Why didn’t you tell the ring was the key to this castle?! Had we known we wouldn’t be so fed up as we are now!
SNOWY
Here, here.
Eventually, they turn round the corner and come across something that startles them. They stop to look in awe.
PUGSLEY
(cheers) There she is, my children! There she is; her magnificence! Isn’t she spectacular before your eyes?
BUSTER
So, that’s the castle then? Looks nice, I agree.
SNOWY
Yeah. Very classy indeed.
PUGSLEY
Classy? Nice? Is that all you two can say?
SNOWY
What else do you expect us to say?! My feet are aching!
PUGSLEY
(pleased) The treasures we seek in that castle as there, as well as controlling this island. But we need to insert this ring inside, and also to look out for Judy Garland and Mickey Rooney. They are essential and must be brought to that castle.
SNOWY
Judy Garland and Mickey Rooney? Why are they so special?!
PUGSLEY
Worry about that later. For now, let’s go inside and sort out this castle. Get inside using the pearl ring.
BUSTER
Easy now, Pugsley. The castle may be in front of us, but there’s bound to be death traps on the way!
PUGSLEY
That is where I’m prepared for anything. Are you though, the pair of you?
SNOWY
(sighs) Let’s get this over and done with! I’d be happy to get off this cursed island!
BUSTER
I couldn’t agree more!
PUGSLEY
Come on. Let’s follow the path to the castle, shall we?
Pugsley, Snowy and Buster make their way on the path towards the castle, treading very carefully as they go. They do not realise they are being watched, as two Gom natives follow close behind them grunting in their own language.
SCENE #69 – INT – DINING ROOM, S.S. MAJESTY – DAY, MORNING
In the dining room of the SS Majesty that morning, Grogan is attending to everyone for breakfast. He takes orders from those who are injured as well as those who are fit and well like the Smiths.
GROGAN
So that’s bacon and eggs for you; just sausages for you. What about you, madam?
BETSEY
Oh, you know, I’m not sure what to have. Whether to have a fruit salad or an omelette.
ROGER
Oh, for Pete’s sake, it’s breakfast! Not a grand evening meal!
ARTHUR
Yeah hurry it up, sis! I want my sausages, you know!
BETSEY
Oh, do stop bullying me! I want to make up my mind on this decision!
GROGAN
I can always come back later, you know. I do have others to attend to for breakfast orders.
BETSEY
No, no. I’ve made my decision. I’ll have a fruit salad today. That sounds nice.
ROGER
At last!
ARTHUR
A sudden decision at that.
BETSEY
Oh do shut up, you two!
GROGAN
And you, sir; madam? What do you fancy for breakfast?
ALONZO
Oh just toast and jam for me and Anna, waiter. Nothing too fancy you understand. Don’t want to put you to too much trouble.
GROGAN
It’s no trouble at all, sir. Believe me. It’s more than my job’s worth.
At that moment, the Doctor enters with Nyssa and Billy beside him.
GROGAN
Ah! Here you are, Doctor!
DOCTOR
Mr. Grogan the waiter! Lovely to see you on your feet! Recovered like Mr. Whiteman, I see.
GROGAN
Whiteman was slower than me. I have a job to do. Now may I take your orders for breakfast? You and your friends…
DOCTOR
Sorry. There isn’t time. Nyssa, Billy and I have a trip to the island in the jungle forest. But thank you for asking.
BILLY
Well, we must have something, Doctor. We can’t go on an empty stomach.
NYSSA
Bring some fruit with us, Billy. They should provide us with enough nourishment.
BILLY
Alright then. I’ll take three oranges with us.
DOCTOR
Splendid! Well thank you, Mr. Grogan. Keep up the good work. (to Nyssa; Billy) Come on, you two! Let’s go!
NYSSA
Right, Doctor.
Nyssa and Billy follow the Doctor as they head off outside for the island. As they leave, Judy watches them go and immediately gets up onto her feet.
JUDY
Wait! Doctor, Nyssa, Billy, wait for me!
MICKEY
(astonished) Judy, where are you going? Judy, come back here!
Mickey follows Judy as she follows the TARDIS trio out of the ship.
SCENE #70 – EXT – BEACH, ISLAND – DAY, MORNING
On the beach, the Doctor, Nyssa and Billy make their way off the ship as they begin to head off on the path leading into the jungle forest.
NYSSA
We should take that straight path up the hill. Maybe that leads in the direction of the castle up ahead
DOCTOR
Well, it’s certainly not the direction we’re taking where the Captain went. I still think it was foolish of him to take a recce team without foreknowledge of this island. I wonder what’s become of him.
BILLY
Hopefully, he’s safe. Possibly at where that castle is.
NYSSA
You’re probably right, Billy. Unless of course he’s been captured.
DOCTOR
Well, we’ll worry about the Captain later on. Right now let’s go…
Just then, they’re joined by Judy, who is soon followed by Mickey.
JUDY
Wait! Wait, you three! Wait!
BILLY
(astonished) Judy! Judy Garland, what are you doing here? Is something wrong?
JUDY
I’m coming with you. I’m not letting you three out of my sight.
NYSSA
Judy, this could be dangerous. You should go back inside.
JUDY
I’m coming with you!
MICKEY
(astonished) Judy, are you out of your mind?
DOCTOR
Nyssa’s right, Judy. It’s not safe. We’re about to walk into a jungle.
JUDY
I insist on coming with you. You three have a lot of unanswered questions. I’d like to know some of the answers to them.
MICKEY
Judy, you can’t go with them.
JUDY
(to Mickey) Mickey, you keep an eye on the folks on this ship and keep them happy. Entertain them or something. At least keep their spirits up.
MICKEY
But you can do that just as much as I can. You’re far better at it than me.
JUDY
The Doctor, Nyssa and Billy need me. And I can keep them entertained and happy on the way whenever there is danger.
DOCTOR
This really isn’t helping.
NYSSA
Oh please, Doctor. We might as well let Judy to come with us. We are looking for the castle. Not looking for danger.
BILLY
Are you sure this is wise? Considering Judy’s part of history.
DOCTOR
Alright, alright. You can come with us, Miss Garland.
JUDY
Me? Part of history?
DOCTOR
Just remember to keep close to us at all times, me, Nyssa and Billy. So don’t wander off if something attracts your attention. Don’t wander off! Understand?
JUDY
Got it, Doctor.
MICKEY
Judy, have you taken leave of your senses?
JUDY
Mick, please! Trust me on this one!
Moment of tension ensues.
MICKEY
(reluctantly) Oh very well. Go ahead! Join them!
JUDY
Thank you!
DOCTOR
Right then, come on. We may as well get started before the morning is over. Onto the path. Follow me!
NYSSA
Yes, Doctor.
BILLY
Right behind you, Doctor.
The Doctor leads the way with Nyssa, Billy and Judy on the sandy path into the jungle, whilst Mickey returns to the ship.
SCENE #71 – EXT – CASTLE, ISLAND – DAY, MORNING
In the centre of the island, Pugsley, Snowy and Buster arrive at the entrance to the castle. They’re in awe at the sight of the architecture and design of this building.
BUSTER
Wow! Seeing it up close! Got to hand it to you, Pugsley. It looks impressive. Makes it worthwhile coming here through all this walking.
SNOWY
Let’s hope there’s somebody inside. With a big banqueting table with a lot of food and comfy seats. I really do need a rest.
PUGSLEY
That, my dear, is highly unlikely. Let’s see if we can get in, shall we?
BUSTER
Oh yeah?! And how are you going to do that?
Pugsley takes out the package he stolen and opens it to reveal the pearl ring.
PUGSLEY
(shows off) With this!
SNOWY
You’re not seriously going to use that as a means for getting us in, are you?
PUGSLEY
Why not? Simply because it’s a ring? You judge too quickly on these things, Snowy.
SNOWY
That’s me. I’m sceptical as ever to your unwavering optimism.
PUGSLEY
(hushes) Shut up, the pair of you! I have to concentrate on this one now. This is pretty delicate and needs correct precision.
BUSTER
Who are you then? The great lock picker? Or Harry Houdini?
SNOWY
Will you shut up, Buster!
PUGSLEY
Shut up, the pair of you!
At that moment, Pugsley reaches out and places the pearl ring he holds in his hand to place into the lock.
PUGSLEY
Now…if I place the ring in the lock there, like so. And adjust it slightly a quarter to the left like this. Then…
Suddenly, the door hums loudly before slowly opening outwards before them.
SNOWY
What in the name of…?!
BUSTER
How did you manage to do that?!
PUGSLEY
Stand back, the pair of you! Stand back!
The three stand back as they allow the door to open outwards before them. Eventually the door is full open and stops. The three criminals stand amazed and agog.
BUSTER
That’s where we’ve got to go then. Inside there. Where all out greatest treasures are waiting so you said.
PUGSLEY
It’s turned out far better than I can possibly imagine. And all this from human hands. Excellent! Absolutely excellent!
SNOWY
I know I said I wanted a banquet table but…it looks so gloomy inside. I don’t fancy going in there now, Pugsley.
PUGSLEY
Nothing ventured, nothing gained, as I believe an old fashioned statement goes.
BUSTER
(astounded) Human hands?! This was done by human hands!
PUGSLEY
Hard to believe, I know. But trust me. These castles were built by the stone work of former slaves of the slave trader. They eventually became tribes living on this island.
BUSTER
Let’s hope some of those tribes are still with us today. I’d like to say congratulations to them.
PUGSLEY
Perhaps you will sometime.
SNOWY
Alright, very impressive, Pugsley. Glad to know you had the pearl ring to open this door. But you still haven’t got onto the part on why Mickey and Judy are so important and why we need them so urgently.
PUGSLEY
(annoyed) Oh Snowy, my dear! Thee child with little faith. Have you not worked it out yet? We need Rooney and Garland to provide entertaining for the natives of this island when we meet them. They have such fine voices.
SNOWY
Entertaining? For the natives?
PUGSLEY
Oh, how can you be so blind and naïve to it all…?
BUSTER
(interrupts) Pugsley, Snowy! Don’t wanna alarm you. But I think we’re being watched.
They stop talking; aware that somebody seems to be in close proximity.
SNOWY
Where? I can’t see anyone. You must be imagining things.
BUSTER
Unless of course you are blind like Pugsley says.
Suddenly, two natives come out of hiding, grunting and growling as they make their way towards them.
PUGSLEY
No, wait, look! See, my children? Here we have our natives! Just what we need. Perfect!
SNOWY
(disgusted) Ugh! They look so disgusting! Horrible with those masks on their face! Don’t they know how to wash?
BUSTER
Let’s get inside before they try to capture us!
SNOWY
No, we’re too late! They’re going to jump on us now! Look out!
Snowy screams, as she and Buster stagger back with one of the natives lunging for them. But Pugsley pulls out a gun and shoots the native on the spot. The native groans and he collapses to the floor dropping his spear.
SNOWY
Pugsley! You shot that poor native! How vile of you?!
BUSTER
I didn’t know you had it in you, Pugsley!
PUGSLEY
I have my rare moments.
At that point, the remaining native grunts and whimpers before running off back down the hill into the jungle forest.
BUSTER
Well, you certainly scared that other one off. And good thing too. Knows now you got a gun, Pugsley! That savage!
SNOWY
I thought you said you wanted these guys alive. Why did you shoot one of them?
PUGSLEY
I didn’t intend to kill it. I’m not a good shot really. But I’m glad I merely wounded him in his side. This is in order to take him with us inside where we can tie him up.
BUSTER
And interrogate him afterwards once we found that banqueting hall of yours, Snowy!
PUGSLEY
You two take the native inside! We must make haste! Follow me into the castle!
Pugsley enters the castle down the gloomy corridor. Snowy and Buster grudgingly make their way to pick up the Gom native and carry him inside the castle.
SNOWY
Why is it we do all the hard work, when Pugsley gets to be the life and soul of the party. It’s not fair. I’m the one who’s aching on my feet.
BUSTER
Let’s face it, Snowy. We’re all just trash in the end for Pugsley.
Snowy and Buster carry the native in as they make their way into the castle.
* See Appendix: Song Lyrics*
© Tim Bradley, 2025-26
| Go back to | Go next to |
| Return to Swing Time | |
| Return to The Fifth Doctor by Tim Bradley | |
| Return to Doctor Who by Tim Bradley | |
| Return to Doctor Who | |
| Return to Sci-Fi |
