This summary is in no way intended as a substitute for viewing this fabulous episode.
Spoilers Ahead!
Wednesday, 2nd May 1945
Asleep in a taxi being driven through Hastings, US Army Major John Kiefer dreams of a military disaster at sea, and of his CO ordering him to make sure the bodies are found, stating "There will be no funerals. Nothing ever happened here."
Kiefer books into the Majestic hotel. He is surly with the receptionist but immediately apologises. In his room, he drops wearily into a chair and puts his head in his hands.
*
Samantha Stewart attends a job interview at an office of an advertising agency.
*
Paul Milner takes his wife Edith to Dr Henry Zeigler for a check-up on her well-advanced pregnancy. All is well. On the way home, Edith remarks that nappies cost one coupon each and that she's concerned about clothes.
*
In the police station, Sgt Brooke tells DCS Foyle that they've started moving stuff out, and remarks that he can't believe the station is to close. He informs Foyle that a local councillor is waiting to see him.
Milner reports Edith's progress. Brooke comments on Milner's promotion to detective inspector, but Milner says he hasn't had confirmation of it yet.
Councillor Mark Griffiths tells Foyle that he (Griffiths) has been appointed chairman of a committee concerned with public order regarding the victory day celebrations, and that Foyle is to be on it. The first meeting will be next morning in a room at the museum.
*
In the Majestic, the owner Martin Longmate is interviewed by a journalist about his standing for Parliament at the next election. He plans to hold a big street party to celebrate the end of the war, and rejects the suggestion that it's an attempt to bribe the electorate.
*
Sam goes to Foyle's office. Her boss is reading a newspaper announcement of Hitler's death. Sam tells him the job interview didn't go well, and says she doesn't know what she'll do after the war. "This place is closing down, you're retiring, Milner's transferring to Brighton. We've been together so long, I feel I'm losing my family." Foyle tells her that SSAFA, the Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Families Association that helps returning servicemen, are looking for volunteers, and suggests she go there. Sam asks him if he might reconsider retiring. He's says no.
*
Griffiths is greatly upset to discover a picture of a tiger stuck to the front door of his home. His mother is concerned, saying that he's changed since he came back and that she wishes he'd tell her what happened.
*
As Foyle prepares to leave his house next morning, he listens to a radio broadcast from Germany about the German Army coming in to surrender at Luneburg. On the way to the museum, Sam asks why there is a delay in the official announcement of the end of the war. Foyle can offer no explanation.
Dr Zeigler has gone to the museum to attend the committee. The doorman Michael Brown queries the doctor's name, thinking it's German. Foyle walks in as Zeigler explains that he's Austrian.
Upstairs in the committee room, Griffiths introduces Zeigler to Martin Longmate. Zeigler says he believes they've met. Longmate says he doesn't think so. Janice Hylton, Longmate's assistant at the Majestic, is introduced as committee secretary. The final member of the committee arrives. It is Major Kiefer. Foyle expresses surprise, saying he thought he'd been transferred.
In the lobby, Brown tells Sam angrily that one of the committee members is a Jerry and says Germans should be wiped off the face of the earth.
At the meeting, Griffiths is concerned that park benches are being used to make bonfires. Kiefer remarks that it's typical of the British to come through a war and then start worrying about park benches. Taking exception to Kiefer's attitude, Griffiths remarks that the many GIs in Hastings are not known for orderly conduct. Kiefer accuses him of having it in for the Yanks. He says that the GIs didn't lose their heads when the end of the war was, albeit by mistake, announced on US bases the previous week, adding "No dead bodies."
Foyle asks about Longmate's planned street party. Longmate explains that he was just doing his bit, seeing as he wasn't able to fight due to a problem with his eyes.
*
When off duty, Sam goes to SSAFA and is welcomed by the supervisor, who explains that thousands of returning soldiers are searching for their families, as people have moved, many bombed out, and families are searching for wounded or missing servicemen. She says the people have different needs such as clothing, food, housing, or just someone to talk to. She warns that some of the men are more damaged than anyone understands.
*
That night, Kiefer has nightmares about the deaths at sea of hundreds of soldiers and sailors, and his challenging his CO about it being no one's fault. He wakes in a sweat.
*
Friday, 4th May 1945
Returning soldier Edward Hylton is warmly greeted by his wife Janice. He is withdrawn and doesn't smile.
*
At the police station, Brooke tells Sam that a prospective MP is advertising in the newspaper for a personal assistant. Sam says she'll apply.
Foyle tells Milner that the committee was a waste of time, and says with irritation that there is to be another meeting tomorrow. He rings Kiefer at the hotel.
*
In their home, Janice tells her husband that he has changed, and that after four years it's like meeting him for the first time. When she tells him that Longmate gave her a job, Hylton asks if that's all he's given her. Janice invites her husband to go with her to the hotel to meet her boss, saying that he might be able to help him.
*
Griffiths goes to see Zeigler. His blood pressure is very high and he can't sleep. Zeigler asks what he has on his mind. Griffiths says agitatedly that he's being persecuted because of the terrible thing that happened, but that it wasn't just him. Without explanation, he states that it wasn't his fault and that he doesn't deserve what's being done.
*
At the Majestic, Janice introduces Hylton to Longmate. Hylton says he'll need time to adjust to being home. Longmate tells Janice to take as much time off as she needs, and tells Hylton that the hotel will have work for him when he's ready.
*
Sam goes to the Majestic for a job interview with Longmate.
*
Major Kiefer visits Foyle at home. He presents him with a bottle of whisky and suggests he open it, as he wants a drink. He asks about Foyle's son Andrew, and is told that he's in Malta but hasn't been heard from for some time.
Kiefer asks why Foyle wants to see him. Foyle assures him it's not official business, saying that, as Kiefer was back in Hastings but hadn't been in touch, he was wondering if everything was all right. Kiefer declines an invitation to go fishing at the weekend, saying he's lost the taste for it. Abruptly, he stands, puts on his cap and says he just wants to go home.
*
At the end of Sam's interview, Longmate invites her to lunch next day, and when she demurs, explains that he has to know if they can get along. Sam says she's not free for lunch, but agrees to dinner at seven.
*
At home, Hylton is sullen and doesn't eat his evening meal. Janice tells him that it's the best tinned salmon, given to them by Longmate. She says that her boss has been very good to her, and Hylton asks what that's supposed to mean. He says he has an upset stomach and has made an appointment to see Dr Zeigler. Janice says he should let her take care of him. Hylton replies that if she cares, she can start by telling him what it is she's keeping from him.
*
At home, Griffiths opens an envelope that was delivered while he was out. Sand cascades to the floor. He begins to sob.
*
Saturday, 5th May 1945
As Foyle is trout fishing in the river, a voice calls "Dad!" Foyle turns, and, on seeing Andrew, smiles. At home, over a glass of Kiefer's bourbon, Andrew tells his father that after an acute attack of sinusitis he's been sent home and won't be flying any more. Foyle says "So you're out of it" and Andrew replies "Yeah. I made it." Foyle smiles again.
Andrew recalls with sorrow his friends who didn't make it, and Foyle asks if he's wondering why them and not him. Andrew replies that he wonders it all the time. He asks his father if he's definitely leaving the police. Foyle tells him that he can't wait. Andrew then enquires about Sam. His father queries why he's asked, and Andrew replies that he was just wondering. Foyle comments about him having met someone else. Andrew says it didn't work out, and tells his father that he had hated Debden and had missed his Spitfire.
When Foyle tells him Sam is helping at SSAFA, Andrew says he might look her up. Foyle remarks that he wasn't very kind to her. Andrew replies "I know. Stupid bloody war" and asks "Do you think it was worth it, Dad?" Foyle says "Well, we've all paid a price, some more than others, but I have absolutely no doubt whatsoever. And I'm very glad you're back."
*
At home, Griffiths answers the telephone. A male voice says "It was just a few numbers. More then seven hundred American boys died because of you." Griffiths insists he wasn't responsible, and hangs up the phone. Kiefer leaves the phone box from which he has made the call.
*
Edward Hylton goes to SSAFA. Sam speaks to him but doesn't find it easy. He declines her offer of a cup of tea. He looks unhappy and says he's not sure he's pleased to be home. He tells her that he's thinking of moving away from Hastings.
Sam tells him about the Married Families Club, but Hylton just looks blankly at her. She asks him if being back is really so bad. He says he doesn't know where he is any more after four years behind the lines, doing what they did, then suddenly being told that it's over and everyone has to go home and start again. He asks "How are we meant to do that? How are we meant to put it all behind us?" and adds "Cup of tea? Married Families Club? Half my mates got killed out there. Maybe they were the lucky ones."
*
In the museum, Brown slams down his newspaper after reading an article headed "Britain enraged by new Nazi horrors".
Upstairs, at the second committee meeting, Zeigler comments on the delay of an official announcement that the war is over. Griffiths says that on the day of the announcement, all pubs are to stay open until midnight. He has trouble finding his notes, and explains that he hasn't been sleeping well. Kiefer says dryly that it's too bad. Griffiths reports that more supplies of whisky and gin have been distributed across the south coast, the bottles being marked "not to be sold until victory night". He tells Foyle to ensure the injunction is adhered to. Foyle says he doesn't see how it can be done, and comments that officers could be sent into the pubs but that the chances of them coming out again were pretty slim.
*
Milner collects Edith from Zeigler's surgery after her appointment with a nurse. She says everything is fine. As they walk home, they meet Janice and Edward Hylton. Edith greets Janice but Janice denies knowing her. Edith reminds her that they met at Zeigler's surgery, but Janice says she's mistaken. Edith realises something is wrong and says she must have mistaken her for someone else. The Milners move on. Hylton questions Janice about the encounter, but she insists she doesn't know Edith.
*
In the museum, Brown walks along an upstairs corridor.
Longmate prepares to leave the meeting, saying he has to organise the victory party, and promising enough liquor for everyone. Kiefer reminds him that the liquor's not to be sold until victory night. Looking at Griffiths, he adds "We wouldn't want to be sending out the wrong signals." Foyle notices the look.
As Sam parks the Wolseley outside the museum, Janice walks past towards the building.
As Longmate leaves and the meeting breaks up, Zeigler arranges to speak to Foyle at the police station that afternoon. Kiefer says he's tired, and leaves for his hotel. Griffiths remains seated, his head in his hands.
From a display case somewhere in the museum, someone takes a large knife.
Kiefer leaves the museum just ahead of Foyle. The DCS is surprised to find Sam waiting, because it is Saturday. Janice walks past on her way from the building.
Zeigler then leaves the building. Griffiths isn't far behind.
As Zeigler walks home, he meets someone he knows, and smiles.
*
Of duty and in civilian clothes, Brooke is about to buy two Union Jacks from a street stall but becomes angry when told the prices. He accuses the seller of profiteering. The seller says "What you gonna do then - arrest me?" Brooke replies "Yeah!" and shows his warrant card. The stallholder runs off. Brooke chases him down an alley, but is bumped into by Zeigler, who collapses to the ground, leaving the sergeant's hand covered with blood.
*
As Kiefer leaves the Majestic, Sam arrives for her dinner with Longmate. Over the meal, Longmate tells her that he inherited the hotel when his wife died during bombing at the start of the war. He learns from Sam that she drives for DCS Foyle.
Janice approaches Longmate, saying she needs to speak to him. He tries to send her away, but she angrily insists that she must speak to him. Longmate explains to Sam that Janice is his present secretary. He then says he's sorry but that he doesn't think she'd be right for the job. With that, he leaves with Janice.
*
Sunday, 6th May
In 31 Steep Lane, Andrew is surprised that his father is having to go to work. Foyle explains there's been a murder. Andrew says "Poor Dad, it could only happen to you. The whole country preparing for a giant knees-up and once again you're stuck with the body in the library."
*
Foyle enters the police station and finds it festooned with Union Jacks and bunting.
Foyle and Milner discuss the possibility of Zeigler being killed because of what he wanted to talk to Foyle about. Milner suggests the name might have been taken to be German. He reports that the murder weapon was something with a long, curved blade.
Having heard about the murder, Sam reports for work.
*
Foyle and Milner go to the museum. Brown grumbles at being dragged into work on a Sunday. Foyle comments on the doorman's not liking Zeigler and reminds him that he said Germans should be wiped off the face of the earth. Brown takes it as an accusation, and is shocked.
Foyle notices that a display case containing large knives has one item missing.
Brown says that he was at the door when the meeting broke up, and that Kiefer was the first one to leave. He says he then went along the corridor and the next person he saw was Griffiths. He didn't see the substitute secretary leave.
*
Foyle and Milner go to Griffiths home and find ambulance men carrying out the body of Griffiths, who has committed suicide with sleeping pills.
Eunice Griffiths shows them a note in her son's handwriting. It reads "It wasn't me. I wasn't responsible. I'm sorry, I can't live with this."
Eunice says she doesn't know to what her son was referring. She says that he hadn't been the same since his return from duty with the Royal Signal Corps in the west country, and tells of his receipt of the sand and discovery of the picture of the tiger. She says that he believed he was being watched.
*
At home, Hylton tells his wife that he turned up for his appointment with the doctor but that he wasn't there. Angrily, he demands to know about Edith. When Janice again denies knowing her, Hylton strikes her across the face. He is immediately contrite.
*
Sam is on duty at SSAFA and is not pleased when Andrew walks in. Andrew says that he doesn't need a demob suit, but that he has a problem and needs someone to talk to. Sam asks what the problem is. Andrew says he'd been a complete cad in breaking off their relationship and not even having the nerve to do it face-to-face. "Since then there hasn't been a day when I haven't regretted what I did and wished I could somehow undo it, take back the hurt I know I must have caused. And that's why I'm asking your advice, you see, because I'm still looking for a way."
Sam says that she's not sure there is a way. She indicates SSAFA's leaflets and suggests he look to see what they advise. When Andrew says she doesn't have a leaflet on love, Sam replies "No, but I've quite a few on desertion."
Andrew says "You know, Sam, in all this time you've hardly changed at all. But I have." He leaves.
*
Monday, 7th May 1945
A boy studies the front page of a newspaper that declares "Germany surrenders. All Britain awaits broadcast by Mr Churchill."
Sam drives Foyle and Milner to the Majestic. On arrival, she tells of the interview with Longmate. When she says she didn't think she'd got the job, Foyle says it's probably for the best right now.
In the hotel, Foyle meets Kiefer, who tells him that he's leaving for New York. Foyle says he's not sure that will be possible, and tells him about Griffiths and the note he left. Kiefer states that he didn't know the man before the committee was formed. Foyle remarks that for someone he'd never met, he seemed to have quite an effect on him.
When Foyle then enquires about what Kiefer was doing in Devon, the major becomes annoyed and asks "Why the third degree?" He prepares to leave, but Foyle says he can't let him go. Kiefer says he thought they were friends. Foyle replies "Well, so did I."
*
Foyle and Milner go to Longmate's office. Janice leaves on their arrival. Foyle asks Longmate if he was a patient of Zeigler. Longmate replies that he wasn't. Foyle asks what the problem was with his eyes that exempted him from active service. Longmate admits lying and says that the real reason was angina. He explains that people would be unlikely to vote for someone with a weak heart. Foyle asks if he thinks they'd sooner vote for someone who lies.
As they leave, Milner tells Foyle that the woman in Longmate's office was a patient of Zeigler and that he has a good idea why she was seeing him.
*
Later, at the station, Milner reports that he could get no information about Griffiths's military service because it was hush-hush. Foyle comments that Griffiths and Kiefer had both been in Devon.
*
Foyle goes to London to speak with Hilda Pierce. He asks her to find information about something that happened in the west of England last year or this, involving the Americans, perhaps on a beach, and gives her Griffiths's name. She agrees to meet Foyle again later that day.
*
Milner speaks with Janice Hylton in her home. He says that when she met Edith in Zeigler's surgery she was heavily pregnant, and asks about the baby. Janice says her mother is looking after the child, and that her husband knows nothing about the pregnancy. She admits that Longmate is the father and says that he is going to make arrangements to have the child adopted. She bitterly regrets what has happened. She says she loves her husband and doesn't want to lose him, and that when he went to see Zeigler, she panicked and went to see Longmate at the museum, but he'd already left.
After Milner has gone, Hylton walks into the room, saying that he has heard everything. He takes her hand, tenderly.
*
Foyle meets again with Hilda Pierce. She warns him to tread very carefully. She tells him that an exercise called Operation Tiger took place on Slapton Sands in Devon, but that officially nothing happened there. Handing Foyle an envelope, she adds "A war hides a great many dirty secrets, and this secret is very dirty indeed."
*
Back at the station, Foyle is told by Milner about the conversation with Janice.
As the two men walk through the lobby, they find Brooke and several constables enjoying the "Jane" comic strip in the Daily Mirror. Foyle has seen it and remarks that they've probably noticed that she hasn't a stitch on that day. Brooke says he supposes it's to mark the end of the war. He and the lads then leave to take a look at their new HQ.
Edith comes in with an envelope for her husband, containing the confirmation of his promotion. As Foyle congratulates Milner, Edith goes into labour. Brooke has left, and Sam is at SSAFA, so Foyle takes a car key from a hook and drives Edith and Milner to the hospital himself.
*
Tuesday, 8th May 1945
In the Majestic, Foyle asks Kiefer about Operation Tiger. Kiefer explains. It was a training exercise in April 1944 for the landings at Utah Beach. He had been transferred to the Amphibious Truck Company, working on floating harbours and LSTs. One night, during an exercise, nine German e-boats came out of nowhere and fired on the LST fleet, killing 749 soldiers and sailors. Warning wasn't received because a typing error had resulted in an incorrect radio frequency being sent out. It was all hushed up for the sake of morale.
Kiefer says that it took him a year to discover that it was Griffiths who had made the error, and that he had constant nightmares and wanted Griffiths to accept responsibility for the deaths.
Foyle points out that other things could have contributed to the tragedy: the Germans noticing increased radio traffic, the corvette escort not showing up and the LSTs being in the wrong formation. He says that it wasn't one man's mistake. Kiefer replies that Griffiths was in charge and at the end of it was just shipped out. Foyle asks if it was worth hounding him to death. Kiefer says he doesn't know what he wanted, but that he didn't want Griffiths to die.
Foyle tells the major there's no case against him in Law so he's free to go. In response to the iciness of Foyle's tone, Kiefer remarks "Funny thing about war, Christopher, people change. Or are you the only one who remained above it all?" Foyle walks out.
*
Sam has met with Andrew. On the sea front, he tells her he'll stay in Hastings and spend some time with his father. He says he can't fly again because sinusitis ruined his eyesight, but that he doesn't know how he can work in an office after what he's done during the war. Sam suggests that, as he used to write poetry, he could be a writer. Andrew tells her he wrote a poem called "All Clear" before he left Malta, and Sam prompts him to recite it ...
"They've sounded out the last 'all clear'
and told us, those who made it here,
that very soon we'll hold once more
those things that we held dear,
yet nothing's clear to me.
I gaze from darkness to a summer haze
and, though they part,
the clouds of war lead only to uncertain days."
Sam remarks that it's very sad if he really thinks that way. Andrew apologises, saying that he's beginning to sound like an old man. Suddenly, he says "Sam, why don't we get married?" Sam replies that she said she'd be his friend, and that it was unfair of him to ask for more. Andrew says that he'll work on her until she forgives him for being such a fool. "And you will marry me."
"Oh, yes?"
"If only because you'd secretly love to have my dad as your father-in-law."
They laugh and then head for a pub.
*
At the Majestic, Foyle asks Longmate for the name of the doctor at his military service medical. Longmate claims not to remember. Foyle produces a letter confirming the appointment and signed by Zeigler. Longmate insists he doesn't remember who the doctor was. Foyle says that that's because the man Zeigler examined wasn't Longmate but someone he'd paid £150 to take his place, who had angina and, until his recent arrest, acquired exemption certificates for those wishing to avoid military service.
Longmate admits that he panicked on overhearing Zeigler make the appointment with Foyle, and that he decided to get rid of the man before he could say anything, so took the knife. Foyle tells him that all Zeigler wanted was to express his concern about Griffiths. He says, "Having evaded the draft, murdered a member of the medical profession, tried to avoid detection to feather your own nest, I'd have said you were a born politician. But, the Law being what it is, hanging is perhaps the very best way you can serve your country."
*
In the police station, Brooke pours champagne for everyone to celebrate the birth of Milner's baby girl. Foyle asks where he got the champagne. The sergeant explains that it was in the evidence room but somehow the label had come adrift so it couldn't be placed. Foyle turns a blind eye.
As they all clink their glasses, a constable turns up the radio so that they can hear the eagerly-awaited broadcast by Winston Churchill …
"Yesterday morning, at 2.41am, at General Eisenhower's headquarters, General Jodl, the representative of the German High Command and of Grand Admiral Doenitz, the designated head of the German State, signed the act of unconditional surrender of all German land, sea and air forces in Europe to the Allied Expeditionary Force."
Sam says "It's over! I can't believe it!" Milner says he must get back to his family. Foyle shakes his hand and wishes him good luck. Brooke tells Foyle that he promised the lads they could join in the celebrations. Foyle says to go ahead, and they leave the station.
Sam tells Foyle that she'd heard that he'd driven the Milners to the hospital.
"But I thought you couldn't drive. Are you telling me that all these years …?"
"Well, I've never actually ever at any time said I couldn't drive. I mean, I just preferred not to."
"So you never really needed me."
Foyle pauses and then replies "I wouldn't say that."
Andrew bursts into the station, saying all hell is breaking loose outside, and suggesting they join in. When Sam says she will, Andrew suggests that she might have a dance with him. Sam replies "I'll dance with anybody" adding after a pause "but especially with you." Foyle grins.
When Andrew asks his dad if he's going too, Foyle says he'll catch them up.
Left alone in the station, the DCS goes to his office and dons his overcoat. He looks thoughtfully around the room, which is empty, the furniture having been transferred to the new HQ. He puts on his trilby and slowly walks out, closing the door behind him for the last time.
*
Many thanks to Lynne for the summary.
Asleep in a taxi being driven through Hastings, US Army Major John Kiefer dreams of a military disaster at sea, and of his CO ordering him to make sure the bodies are found, stating "There will be no funerals. Nothing ever happened here."
Kiefer books into the Majestic hotel. He is surly with the receptionist but immediately apologises. In his room, he drops wearily into a chair and puts his head in his hands.
*
Samantha Stewart attends a job interview at an office of an advertising agency.
*
Paul Milner takes his wife Edith to Dr Henry Zeigler for a check-up on her well-advanced pregnancy. All is well. On the way home, Edith remarks that nappies cost one coupon each and that she's concerned about clothes.
*
In the police station, Sgt Brooke tells DCS Foyle that they've started moving stuff out, and remarks that he can't believe the station is to close. He informs Foyle that a local councillor is waiting to see him.
Milner reports Edith's progress. Brooke comments on Milner's promotion to detective inspector, but Milner says he hasn't had confirmation of it yet.
Councillor Mark Griffiths tells Foyle that he (Griffiths) has been appointed chairman of a committee concerned with public order regarding the victory day celebrations, and that Foyle is to be on it. The first meeting will be next morning in a room at the museum.
*
In the Majestic, the owner Martin Longmate is interviewed by a journalist about his standing for Parliament at the next election. He plans to hold a big street party to celebrate the end of the war, and rejects the suggestion that it's an attempt to bribe the electorate.
*
Sam goes to Foyle's office. Her boss is reading a newspaper announcement of Hitler's death. Sam tells him the job interview didn't go well, and says she doesn't know what she'll do after the war. "This place is closing down, you're retiring, Milner's transferring to Brighton. We've been together so long, I feel I'm losing my family." Foyle tells her that SSAFA, the Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Families Association that helps returning servicemen, are looking for volunteers, and suggests she go there. Sam asks him if he might reconsider retiring. He's says no.
*
Griffiths is greatly upset to discover a picture of a tiger stuck to the front door of his home. His mother is concerned, saying that he's changed since he came back and that she wishes he'd tell her what happened.
*
As Foyle prepares to leave his house next morning, he listens to a radio broadcast from Germany about the German Army coming in to surrender at Luneburg. On the way to the museum, Sam asks why there is a delay in the official announcement of the end of the war. Foyle can offer no explanation.
Dr Zeigler has gone to the museum to attend the committee. The doorman Michael Brown queries the doctor's name, thinking it's German. Foyle walks in as Zeigler explains that he's Austrian.
Upstairs in the committee room, Griffiths introduces Zeigler to Martin Longmate. Zeigler says he believes they've met. Longmate says he doesn't think so. Janice Hylton, Longmate's assistant at the Majestic, is introduced as committee secretary. The final member of the committee arrives. It is Major Kiefer. Foyle expresses surprise, saying he thought he'd been transferred.
In the lobby, Brown tells Sam angrily that one of the committee members is a Jerry and says Germans should be wiped off the face of the earth.
At the meeting, Griffiths is concerned that park benches are being used to make bonfires. Kiefer remarks that it's typical of the British to come through a war and then start worrying about park benches. Taking exception to Kiefer's attitude, Griffiths remarks that the many GIs in Hastings are not known for orderly conduct. Kiefer accuses him of having it in for the Yanks. He says that the GIs didn't lose their heads when the end of the war was, albeit by mistake, announced on US bases the previous week, adding "No dead bodies."
Foyle asks about Longmate's planned street party. Longmate explains that he was just doing his bit, seeing as he wasn't able to fight due to a problem with his eyes.
*
When off duty, Sam goes to SSAFA and is welcomed by the supervisor, who explains that thousands of returning soldiers are searching for their families, as people have moved, many bombed out, and families are searching for wounded or missing servicemen. She says the people have different needs such as clothing, food, housing, or just someone to talk to. She warns that some of the men are more damaged than anyone understands.
*
That night, Kiefer has nightmares about the deaths at sea of hundreds of soldiers and sailors, and his challenging his CO about it being no one's fault. He wakes in a sweat.
*
Friday, 4th May 1945
Returning soldier Edward Hylton is warmly greeted by his wife Janice. He is withdrawn and doesn't smile.
*
At the police station, Brooke tells Sam that a prospective MP is advertising in the newspaper for a personal assistant. Sam says she'll apply.
Foyle tells Milner that the committee was a waste of time, and says with irritation that there is to be another meeting tomorrow. He rings Kiefer at the hotel.
*
In their home, Janice tells her husband that he has changed, and that after four years it's like meeting him for the first time. When she tells him that Longmate gave her a job, Hylton asks if that's all he's given her. Janice invites her husband to go with her to the hotel to meet her boss, saying that he might be able to help him.
*
Griffiths goes to see Zeigler. His blood pressure is very high and he can't sleep. Zeigler asks what he has on his mind. Griffiths says agitatedly that he's being persecuted because of the terrible thing that happened, but that it wasn't just him. Without explanation, he states that it wasn't his fault and that he doesn't deserve what's being done.
*
At the Majestic, Janice introduces Hylton to Longmate. Hylton says he'll need time to adjust to being home. Longmate tells Janice to take as much time off as she needs, and tells Hylton that the hotel will have work for him when he's ready.
*
Sam goes to the Majestic for a job interview with Longmate.
*
Major Kiefer visits Foyle at home. He presents him with a bottle of whisky and suggests he open it, as he wants a drink. He asks about Foyle's son Andrew, and is told that he's in Malta but hasn't been heard from for some time.
Kiefer asks why Foyle wants to see him. Foyle assures him it's not official business, saying that, as Kiefer was back in Hastings but hadn't been in touch, he was wondering if everything was all right. Kiefer declines an invitation to go fishing at the weekend, saying he's lost the taste for it. Abruptly, he stands, puts on his cap and says he just wants to go home.
*
At the end of Sam's interview, Longmate invites her to lunch next day, and when she demurs, explains that he has to know if they can get along. Sam says she's not free for lunch, but agrees to dinner at seven.
*
At home, Hylton is sullen and doesn't eat his evening meal. Janice tells him that it's the best tinned salmon, given to them by Longmate. She says that her boss has been very good to her, and Hylton asks what that's supposed to mean. He says he has an upset stomach and has made an appointment to see Dr Zeigler. Janice says he should let her take care of him. Hylton replies that if she cares, she can start by telling him what it is she's keeping from him.
*
At home, Griffiths opens an envelope that was delivered while he was out. Sand cascades to the floor. He begins to sob.
*
Saturday, 5th May 1945
As Foyle is trout fishing in the river, a voice calls "Dad!" Foyle turns, and, on seeing Andrew, smiles. At home, over a glass of Kiefer's bourbon, Andrew tells his father that after an acute attack of sinusitis he's been sent home and won't be flying any more. Foyle says "So you're out of it" and Andrew replies "Yeah. I made it." Foyle smiles again.
Andrew recalls with sorrow his friends who didn't make it, and Foyle asks if he's wondering why them and not him. Andrew replies that he wonders it all the time. He asks his father if he's definitely leaving the police. Foyle tells him that he can't wait. Andrew then enquires about Sam. His father queries why he's asked, and Andrew replies that he was just wondering. Foyle comments about him having met someone else. Andrew says it didn't work out, and tells his father that he had hated Debden and had missed his Spitfire.
When Foyle tells him Sam is helping at SSAFA, Andrew says he might look her up. Foyle remarks that he wasn't very kind to her. Andrew replies "I know. Stupid bloody war" and asks "Do you think it was worth it, Dad?" Foyle says "Well, we've all paid a price, some more than others, but I have absolutely no doubt whatsoever. And I'm very glad you're back."
*
At home, Griffiths answers the telephone. A male voice says "It was just a few numbers. More then seven hundred American boys died because of you." Griffiths insists he wasn't responsible, and hangs up the phone. Kiefer leaves the phone box from which he has made the call.
*
Edward Hylton goes to SSAFA. Sam speaks to him but doesn't find it easy. He declines her offer of a cup of tea. He looks unhappy and says he's not sure he's pleased to be home. He tells her that he's thinking of moving away from Hastings.
Sam tells him about the Married Families Club, but Hylton just looks blankly at her. She asks him if being back is really so bad. He says he doesn't know where he is any more after four years behind the lines, doing what they did, then suddenly being told that it's over and everyone has to go home and start again. He asks "How are we meant to do that? How are we meant to put it all behind us?" and adds "Cup of tea? Married Families Club? Half my mates got killed out there. Maybe they were the lucky ones."
*
In the museum, Brown slams down his newspaper after reading an article headed "Britain enraged by new Nazi horrors".
Upstairs, at the second committee meeting, Zeigler comments on the delay of an official announcement that the war is over. Griffiths says that on the day of the announcement, all pubs are to stay open until midnight. He has trouble finding his notes, and explains that he hasn't been sleeping well. Kiefer says dryly that it's too bad. Griffiths reports that more supplies of whisky and gin have been distributed across the south coast, the bottles being marked "not to be sold until victory night". He tells Foyle to ensure the injunction is adhered to. Foyle says he doesn't see how it can be done, and comments that officers could be sent into the pubs but that the chances of them coming out again were pretty slim.
*
Milner collects Edith from Zeigler's surgery after her appointment with a nurse. She says everything is fine. As they walk home, they meet Janice and Edward Hylton. Edith greets Janice but Janice denies knowing her. Edith reminds her that they met at Zeigler's surgery, but Janice says she's mistaken. Edith realises something is wrong and says she must have mistaken her for someone else. The Milners move on. Hylton questions Janice about the encounter, but she insists she doesn't know Edith.
*
In the museum, Brown walks along an upstairs corridor.
Longmate prepares to leave the meeting, saying he has to organise the victory party, and promising enough liquor for everyone. Kiefer reminds him that the liquor's not to be sold until victory night. Looking at Griffiths, he adds "We wouldn't want to be sending out the wrong signals." Foyle notices the look.
As Sam parks the Wolseley outside the museum, Janice walks past towards the building.
As Longmate leaves and the meeting breaks up, Zeigler arranges to speak to Foyle at the police station that afternoon. Kiefer says he's tired, and leaves for his hotel. Griffiths remains seated, his head in his hands.
From a display case somewhere in the museum, someone takes a large knife.
Kiefer leaves the museum just ahead of Foyle. The DCS is surprised to find Sam waiting, because it is Saturday. Janice walks past on her way from the building.
Zeigler then leaves the building. Griffiths isn't far behind.
As Zeigler walks home, he meets someone he knows, and smiles.
*
Of duty and in civilian clothes, Brooke is about to buy two Union Jacks from a street stall but becomes angry when told the prices. He accuses the seller of profiteering. The seller says "What you gonna do then - arrest me?" Brooke replies "Yeah!" and shows his warrant card. The stallholder runs off. Brooke chases him down an alley, but is bumped into by Zeigler, who collapses to the ground, leaving the sergeant's hand covered with blood.
*
As Kiefer leaves the Majestic, Sam arrives for her dinner with Longmate. Over the meal, Longmate tells her that he inherited the hotel when his wife died during bombing at the start of the war. He learns from Sam that she drives for DCS Foyle.
Janice approaches Longmate, saying she needs to speak to him. He tries to send her away, but she angrily insists that she must speak to him. Longmate explains to Sam that Janice is his present secretary. He then says he's sorry but that he doesn't think she'd be right for the job. With that, he leaves with Janice.
*
Sunday, 6th May
In 31 Steep Lane, Andrew is surprised that his father is having to go to work. Foyle explains there's been a murder. Andrew says "Poor Dad, it could only happen to you. The whole country preparing for a giant knees-up and once again you're stuck with the body in the library."
*
Foyle enters the police station and finds it festooned with Union Jacks and bunting.
Foyle and Milner discuss the possibility of Zeigler being killed because of what he wanted to talk to Foyle about. Milner suggests the name might have been taken to be German. He reports that the murder weapon was something with a long, curved blade.
Having heard about the murder, Sam reports for work.
*
Foyle and Milner go to the museum. Brown grumbles at being dragged into work on a Sunday. Foyle comments on the doorman's not liking Zeigler and reminds him that he said Germans should be wiped off the face of the earth. Brown takes it as an accusation, and is shocked.
Foyle notices that a display case containing large knives has one item missing.
Brown says that he was at the door when the meeting broke up, and that Kiefer was the first one to leave. He says he then went along the corridor and the next person he saw was Griffiths. He didn't see the substitute secretary leave.
*
Foyle and Milner go to Griffiths home and find ambulance men carrying out the body of Griffiths, who has committed suicide with sleeping pills.
Eunice Griffiths shows them a note in her son's handwriting. It reads "It wasn't me. I wasn't responsible. I'm sorry, I can't live with this."
Eunice says she doesn't know to what her son was referring. She says that he hadn't been the same since his return from duty with the Royal Signal Corps in the west country, and tells of his receipt of the sand and discovery of the picture of the tiger. She says that he believed he was being watched.
*
At home, Hylton tells his wife that he turned up for his appointment with the doctor but that he wasn't there. Angrily, he demands to know about Edith. When Janice again denies knowing her, Hylton strikes her across the face. He is immediately contrite.
*
Sam is on duty at SSAFA and is not pleased when Andrew walks in. Andrew says that he doesn't need a demob suit, but that he has a problem and needs someone to talk to. Sam asks what the problem is. Andrew says he'd been a complete cad in breaking off their relationship and not even having the nerve to do it face-to-face. "Since then there hasn't been a day when I haven't regretted what I did and wished I could somehow undo it, take back the hurt I know I must have caused. And that's why I'm asking your advice, you see, because I'm still looking for a way."
Sam says that she's not sure there is a way. She indicates SSAFA's leaflets and suggests he look to see what they advise. When Andrew says she doesn't have a leaflet on love, Sam replies "No, but I've quite a few on desertion."
Andrew says "You know, Sam, in all this time you've hardly changed at all. But I have." He leaves.
*
Monday, 7th May 1945
A boy studies the front page of a newspaper that declares "Germany surrenders. All Britain awaits broadcast by Mr Churchill."
Sam drives Foyle and Milner to the Majestic. On arrival, she tells of the interview with Longmate. When she says she didn't think she'd got the job, Foyle says it's probably for the best right now.
In the hotel, Foyle meets Kiefer, who tells him that he's leaving for New York. Foyle says he's not sure that will be possible, and tells him about Griffiths and the note he left. Kiefer states that he didn't know the man before the committee was formed. Foyle remarks that for someone he'd never met, he seemed to have quite an effect on him.
When Foyle then enquires about what Kiefer was doing in Devon, the major becomes annoyed and asks "Why the third degree?" He prepares to leave, but Foyle says he can't let him go. Kiefer says he thought they were friends. Foyle replies "Well, so did I."
*
Foyle and Milner go to Longmate's office. Janice leaves on their arrival. Foyle asks Longmate if he was a patient of Zeigler. Longmate replies that he wasn't. Foyle asks what the problem was with his eyes that exempted him from active service. Longmate admits lying and says that the real reason was angina. He explains that people would be unlikely to vote for someone with a weak heart. Foyle asks if he thinks they'd sooner vote for someone who lies.
As they leave, Milner tells Foyle that the woman in Longmate's office was a patient of Zeigler and that he has a good idea why she was seeing him.
*
Later, at the station, Milner reports that he could get no information about Griffiths's military service because it was hush-hush. Foyle comments that Griffiths and Kiefer had both been in Devon.
*
Foyle goes to London to speak with Hilda Pierce. He asks her to find information about something that happened in the west of England last year or this, involving the Americans, perhaps on a beach, and gives her Griffiths's name. She agrees to meet Foyle again later that day.
*
Milner speaks with Janice Hylton in her home. He says that when she met Edith in Zeigler's surgery she was heavily pregnant, and asks about the baby. Janice says her mother is looking after the child, and that her husband knows nothing about the pregnancy. She admits that Longmate is the father and says that he is going to make arrangements to have the child adopted. She bitterly regrets what has happened. She says she loves her husband and doesn't want to lose him, and that when he went to see Zeigler, she panicked and went to see Longmate at the museum, but he'd already left.
After Milner has gone, Hylton walks into the room, saying that he has heard everything. He takes her hand, tenderly.
*
Foyle meets again with Hilda Pierce. She warns him to tread very carefully. She tells him that an exercise called Operation Tiger took place on Slapton Sands in Devon, but that officially nothing happened there. Handing Foyle an envelope, she adds "A war hides a great many dirty secrets, and this secret is very dirty indeed."
*
Back at the station, Foyle is told by Milner about the conversation with Janice.
As the two men walk through the lobby, they find Brooke and several constables enjoying the "Jane" comic strip in the Daily Mirror. Foyle has seen it and remarks that they've probably noticed that she hasn't a stitch on that day. Brooke says he supposes it's to mark the end of the war. He and the lads then leave to take a look at their new HQ.
Edith comes in with an envelope for her husband, containing the confirmation of his promotion. As Foyle congratulates Milner, Edith goes into labour. Brooke has left, and Sam is at SSAFA, so Foyle takes a car key from a hook and drives Edith and Milner to the hospital himself.
*
Tuesday, 8th May 1945
In the Majestic, Foyle asks Kiefer about Operation Tiger. Kiefer explains. It was a training exercise in April 1944 for the landings at Utah Beach. He had been transferred to the Amphibious Truck Company, working on floating harbours and LSTs. One night, during an exercise, nine German e-boats came out of nowhere and fired on the LST fleet, killing 749 soldiers and sailors. Warning wasn't received because a typing error had resulted in an incorrect radio frequency being sent out. It was all hushed up for the sake of morale.
Kiefer says that it took him a year to discover that it was Griffiths who had made the error, and that he had constant nightmares and wanted Griffiths to accept responsibility for the deaths.
Foyle points out that other things could have contributed to the tragedy: the Germans noticing increased radio traffic, the corvette escort not showing up and the LSTs being in the wrong formation. He says that it wasn't one man's mistake. Kiefer replies that Griffiths was in charge and at the end of it was just shipped out. Foyle asks if it was worth hounding him to death. Kiefer says he doesn't know what he wanted, but that he didn't want Griffiths to die.
Foyle tells the major there's no case against him in Law so he's free to go. In response to the iciness of Foyle's tone, Kiefer remarks "Funny thing about war, Christopher, people change. Or are you the only one who remained above it all?" Foyle walks out.
*
Sam has met with Andrew. On the sea front, he tells her he'll stay in Hastings and spend some time with his father. He says he can't fly again because sinusitis ruined his eyesight, but that he doesn't know how he can work in an office after what he's done during the war. Sam suggests that, as he used to write poetry, he could be a writer. Andrew tells her he wrote a poem called "All Clear" before he left Malta, and Sam prompts him to recite it ...
"They've sounded out the last 'all clear'
and told us, those who made it here,
that very soon we'll hold once more
those things that we held dear,
yet nothing's clear to me.
I gaze from darkness to a summer haze
and, though they part,
the clouds of war lead only to uncertain days."
Sam remarks that it's very sad if he really thinks that way. Andrew apologises, saying that he's beginning to sound like an old man. Suddenly, he says "Sam, why don't we get married?" Sam replies that she said she'd be his friend, and that it was unfair of him to ask for more. Andrew says that he'll work on her until she forgives him for being such a fool. "And you will marry me."
"Oh, yes?"
"If only because you'd secretly love to have my dad as your father-in-law."
They laugh and then head for a pub.
*
At the Majestic, Foyle asks Longmate for the name of the doctor at his military service medical. Longmate claims not to remember. Foyle produces a letter confirming the appointment and signed by Zeigler. Longmate insists he doesn't remember who the doctor was. Foyle says that that's because the man Zeigler examined wasn't Longmate but someone he'd paid £150 to take his place, who had angina and, until his recent arrest, acquired exemption certificates for those wishing to avoid military service.
Longmate admits that he panicked on overhearing Zeigler make the appointment with Foyle, and that he decided to get rid of the man before he could say anything, so took the knife. Foyle tells him that all Zeigler wanted was to express his concern about Griffiths. He says, "Having evaded the draft, murdered a member of the medical profession, tried to avoid detection to feather your own nest, I'd have said you were a born politician. But, the Law being what it is, hanging is perhaps the very best way you can serve your country."
*
In the police station, Brooke pours champagne for everyone to celebrate the birth of Milner's baby girl. Foyle asks where he got the champagne. The sergeant explains that it was in the evidence room but somehow the label had come adrift so it couldn't be placed. Foyle turns a blind eye.
As they all clink their glasses, a constable turns up the radio so that they can hear the eagerly-awaited broadcast by Winston Churchill …
"Yesterday morning, at 2.41am, at General Eisenhower's headquarters, General Jodl, the representative of the German High Command and of Grand Admiral Doenitz, the designated head of the German State, signed the act of unconditional surrender of all German land, sea and air forces in Europe to the Allied Expeditionary Force."
Sam says "It's over! I can't believe it!" Milner says he must get back to his family. Foyle shakes his hand and wishes him good luck. Brooke tells Foyle that he promised the lads they could join in the celebrations. Foyle says to go ahead, and they leave the station.
Sam tells Foyle that she'd heard that he'd driven the Milners to the hospital.
"But I thought you couldn't drive. Are you telling me that all these years …?"
"Well, I've never actually ever at any time said I couldn't drive. I mean, I just preferred not to."
"So you never really needed me."
Foyle pauses and then replies "I wouldn't say that."
Andrew bursts into the station, saying all hell is breaking loose outside, and suggesting they join in. When Sam says she will, Andrew suggests that she might have a dance with him. Sam replies "I'll dance with anybody" adding after a pause "but especially with you." Foyle grins.
When Andrew asks his dad if he's going too, Foyle says he'll catch them up.
Left alone in the station, the DCS goes to his office and dons his overcoat. He looks thoughtfully around the room, which is empty, the furniture having been transferred to the new HQ. He puts on his trilby and slowly walks out, closing the door behind him for the last time.
*