GMD Script

London, 1897 The camera pans slowly through a small street. A horse drawn carriage drives by. The horse snorts and neighs as the focus moves below the carriage and slowly zooms in on a tiny shop, Flaversham's Toys. Inside, Olivia and her father are celebrating Olivia's birthday. Olivia plays with a small rocking horse as her father adjusts his apron.

Olivia		You know, Daddy, this is my very best birthday.

Flaversham	Ahh... but I haven't given you your present yet.

Olivia		(excited) What is it? What is it?

Flaversham	Now, now. Close your eyes. (He moves to a small cupboard as Olivia tries to sneak a peek between her fingers) Uh-uh-uh-uh. Auch, no. No peeking now.

Olivia giggles as Flaversham returns to the table, a small toy in his hand that resembles a flowerbud. He winds the key and sets it in front of her. As a gentle tune plays, Olivia opens her eyes and sees that the bud has turned into a mouse ballerina, who dances for her. Olivia		(gasps) Oh, Daddy! You made this just for me?

Outside, a pegged legged figure slowly approaches. He cackles evilly as his shadow looms over the door to the toy shop. Inside, the doll has finished her dance, and Olivia gets down from her chair to hug Flaversham.

Olivia		You're the most wonderful father in the... in the whole world!

The tender moment is interuppted as the locked door begins to rattle. Olivia and Flaversham look towards the door as the rattling becomes more intense. Flaversham puts his arms around his daughter protectively.

Olivia		Who is that?

Flaversham	I-I don't know! Quickly, dear, stay in here and don't come out!

Flaversham hides her in the cupboard and stands in front of it, just as Fidget the bat bursts in though the window. From inside her hiding place, Olivia cracks the door and watches in terror as her father and Fidget struggle. The table flies towards the cupboard, shutting the door and pushing Olivia back.

Fidget		Now I gotcha, toy maker! (cackles)

Flaversham	Oh! Olivia!

Olivia pushes against the door and is able to move the table. She creaks the door open and steps out. The shop is dark, furniture is scattered as empty paint buckets are spilling out. Olivia goes to the window, calling out to Flaversham

Olivia		Daddy, where are you? Daddy... where are you? Daddy! Daddy!

As Olivia's cries echo in the night, the camera zooms out into the clouds.

Title The Great Mouse Detective

The camera breaks out of the clouds again, and now we have a bird's eye view of downtown London. Below a carriage is moving through the streets. Dawson		It was the Eve of our good Queen's Diamond Jubilee, and the year Her Majesty's government came to the very brink of disaster. She... Oh... (chuckles) I'm... I'm getting ahead of myself.

The camera focuses briefly on the passenger inside the carriage before it pans down, revealing Dr. Dawson sitting on the foot pedestal reading his paper.

Dawson		My name is Dr. David Q. Dawson, most recently of the Queen's 66th Regiment.

The carriage stops, and after his human traveling companion departs, Dawson hops onto the sidewalk. He opens his paper again and we see that he has marked several places available for rent.

Dawson		I had just arrived in London after lengthy service in Afghanistan and was anxious to find a quiet place (he chuckels as a drop of rain falls onto the paper. He folds it up and opens his umbrella) preferably dry where I could rest and find a bit of peace. Little did I know but my life was about to change forever.

As Dawson walks through an alleyway, he pauses. From inside a forgotten rainboot, he can hear someone crying. He walks over to the shoe and sees Olivia sitting on a medicine box crying softly.

Dawson		Oh! Oh my! Are you all right, my dear? (Olivia turns to him. Dawson removes a hankerchief from his jacket pocket and hands it to her) Come now, come, come. Here, dry your eyes. (Olivia takes the hankerchief and blows her nose. She gives it back to Dawson and he puts it back in his pocket, taking a seat beside her) Ah, yes, that's better. Now tell me, what's troubling you, my dear?

Olivia		I... I'm lost. I-I-I'm trying to find Basil of Baker Street.

She hands him a small newspaper clipping. Dawson		Now, let me see here... (Dawson puts his bifocals on and reads the headline) "Famous detective solves baffling disappearance." Mmm, hmmm. But where are your mother and father?

Olivia		(getting upset) That's why I m-m-must find Basil! (She begins to sob into her scarf)

Dawson		(Trying to calm her) There, there, there. Now, now, now. Well I don't know any Basil. (Olivia looks at him sadly, but then he gives her a warm smile) But I do remember where Baker street is. (Her face brightens a bit as Dawson reopens his umbrella) Now, come with me. We'll find this Basil chap together.

Cut from Olivia and Dawson setting off to Baker Street. The camera moves from the sign on the building that reads Baker Street up to a blinded window, where Sherlock Holmes is playing his violin. Down below, Olivia and Dawson have arrived at 221 1/2 Baker Street. Dawson knocks, and Mrs. Judson, the housekeeper, opens the door, her arms full of books, blankets and pillows, as well as a teacup and medieval mace. Dawson		(Removes his hat) Good evening, Madam. Is this the residence of Basil of Baker Street?

Mrs. Judson	I'm afraid it is. He's not here at the moment, but you're welcome to come in and wait.

Dawson		Oh, I-I don't want to impose. It's just the girl...

He gestures towards his side, but Olivia isn't there. Dawson and Mrs Judson look inside, where Olivia is already seated by the fireplace examining a magnifying glass with interest. Mrs Judson thruts her load into Dawson's arms and rushes to her side. Mrs Judson	Oh my! You poor dear! You must be chilled to the bone! (She takes off Olivia's hat and wrings it dry, then removes her scarf) Oh ho ho ho, but I know just the thing. Let me fetch you a pot of tea and some of my fresh cheese crumpets. Mrs Judson rushes to the kitchen and shuts the door. Olivia looks around the room, facsinated by what she sees. A small propeller is operating a bellow, and attacheted to that are several cigarettes and a pipe, all of which are puffing. On another table, four different pairs of shoes are being turned in a circular motion, first being brushed with black paint, and then setting a print on a stack of paper. Dawson is hanging up his coat, but a voice coming from the front door distracts him Voice		Ah-ha! The villain's slipped this time! I shall have him! (the door bursts open to reveal a large mouse dressed in Chinese robes. He smiles triumphantly with a gun in his hand as lightning strikes. Dawson is petrified as the mouse bursts inside, rushing towards one of the many tables) Out of my way! Out of my way!

Dawson		I say, who- (he cuts himself off as the mouse's hat is thrown, landing directly on his own head. He takes it off and addresses him once more) who are you?

Mouse		What? (he pauses and turns to Dawson) Oh!

He reaches up and pulls on what turns out to be a mask to reveal the one and only...

Basil		Basil of Baker Street, my good fellow.

Basil smiles at Dawson's confused stare. He pulls at a tab on his robe, which lets air escape to reveal his slender form, surprising Dawson even more. Olivia, on the other hand, is relieved to see him and approaches Olivia		Mr. Basil! I need your help, and I-

Basil is clearly not listening to her as puts on his house robe. He tosses a dart over his shoulder, scoring a direct bull's eye on the board..

Basil		All in good time.

Olivia		But-but you don't understand. I'm in terrible trouble.

Basil		If you'll excuse me.

Basil walks by, and Olivia sighs. Dawson steps in.

Dawson		Here, now, now. Now see here! (He shakes a finger at Basil who once more rushes right by the two of them. Dawson pauses momentarily, then regains his wind) This young lady is in need of assistance, I think you ought...

Basil		(handing him the gun) Will you hold this, please, Doctor? Dawson		Of course. (His eyes closed, Dawson doesn't realize at first what he's holding and points the gun at his head. He opens his eyes, and then nervously holds it out at arms length until Basil retrieves it.) Ah, wait just a moment. How did the duece did you know I was a doctor? Basil		(Basil picks up a single bullet and places it in the gun) A surgeon, to be exact. Just returned from military duty in Afghanistan. Am I right? Dawson		Why, (chuckles) Oh, yes. Major David Q. Dawson. But how could you possibly-

Basil		Quite simple, really. (holds up Dawson's arm to reveal a stitch mark on his jacket) You've sewn your torn cuff together with the Lembert stitch, which of course, only a surgeon uses. (He continues speaking as he gathers several pillows) And the thread is a unique form of catgut distinguished by it's (leaning down to whisper to Olivia) peculiar pungency (she's confused) and found only in the Afghan provinces.

One by one, Basil tosses the three pillows at Dawson. Dawson holds them against his body, his face mostly covered.

Dawson		(muffled) Amazing!

Basil		Actually... it's elementary, my dear Dawson.

Basil spins the revolver and aims it at the pillows. Dawson looks around in terror and throws the pillows onto an armchair. As Basil calmy readjusts his aim, Dawson jumps behind the opposite chair, siezing Olivia's arm and bringing her behind it. The gun fires, and pillow feathers fly as they cautiously peek out. Mrs. Judson rushes back out. Mrs Judson	What in heaven's name? (distraught) Oh! Oh! My- (she spits out several feathers) my good pillows!

She glares angrily in Basil's direction. He's kneeling in the chair, tossing the feathers aside.

Mrs. Judson	 Mr. Basil! (He pops his head above the chair as she spits out more feathers) How many time have I told you--

Basil		There, there, Mrs. Judson, it's quite all right. Ah (he sniffs) mmm! I believe I smell some of those delightful cheese crumpets of yours. (Gently pushes her back to the kitchen) Why don't you fetch our guests some?

Mrs Judson	(She protests as Basil shuts the door) But, ah, but, but...

Basil		Now... (He gets on his hands and knees and searches on the floor) I know that bullet's here somewhere- (Olivia has found it and is holding it up for him. He takes it.) Thank you, Miss...

Olivia		Flaversham. Olivia Flaversham.

Basil		(Distracted) Whatever.

Olivia		Yes, but you don't understand-

Basil		Shhh!

Basil opens a small box and pulls out another bullet. Taking the one he just fired, he puts them under a mircroscope and compares their markings.

Basil		(the markings match) Yeah... (another match) yes! (this time, the markings go off in seperate dircetions) Noo! Drat! (depressed) Another dead end.

Dejected, Basil tosses the extra bullet aside and slowly walks over to his chair.

Basil		He was within my grasp.

He flops into his chair and slowly reaches for the violin sitting beside him. As he plays, Dawson nudges Olivia encouragingly, and she walks towards him, determined to make him listen.

Olivia		Now will you please listen to me? My daddy's gone and I'm all alone.

Basil		(Pauses play) Young lady, this is a most inopportune time. (He resumes playing, but after Olivia's sad face, decides to humor her) Surely your mother knows where he is.

Olivia		I--- I don't have a mother.

Basil screeches the violin as he abruptly sits up)

Basil		Well... um... well, then perhaps.... (firmly) See here! I simply have no time for lost fathers.

He turns away. Olivia is now annoyed, and puts her hands on her hips.

Olivia		I didn't lose him. He was taken, by a bat.

Basil's eyes widen and he leans towards Olivia intently

Basil		Did you say... bat?

Olivia		Yes....

Basil		Did he have a crippled wing?

Olivia		I don't know. But he had a peg leg!

Basil		(stands up on the arms of the chair, his arms wide) Ha!

Dawson		I say, do you know him?

Basil		(now sitting on the top of the chair) Know him? That bat, one Fidget by name, is in the employ of the fiend who was the very target of my experiment! The horror of my every waking moment. The nefarious Professor Ratigan!

Basil points his bow in the direction of the fireplace, where a picture of a well dressed rat sits on the mantle frame. The flames in the fire burst and lightning strikes as we see a close up of Ratigan's sinister grin.

Dawson		Uh, Ratigan?

Basil		(leaning over the top of the chair) He's a genius, Dawson. (he ducks down and reappears at the side) A genius... twisted for evil. (moves in front of the chair) The Napoleon of crime!

Dawson		As bad as all that, eh?

Basil		(Now behind them, poking his head through a banister) Worse! For years, I've tried to capture him and I've come close, (he stands and holds his fist out towards the picture) so very close. But each time he's narrowly evaded my grasp.

Basil is now VO as the camera takes us deeper and deeper through London's sewers.

Basil		Not a corner of London's safe while Ratigan's at large. There's no evil scheme he wouldn't concoct! No depravity he wouldn't commit.

We come to an empty barrel on it's side, and an iron door with bars.

Basil		Who knows what dastardly scheme that villain may be plotting even as we speak.

Inside the prison, a mechanical robot is pouring tea into a cup. Flaversham is working at a podium, controling it's movements. Ratigan is at the door, monitering his progress.

Ratigan		(chuckles evilly) Quite an ingenious scheme, eh, Flaversham? And aren't you proud to be a part of it?

Flaversham	This whole thing...i-i-it's monstrous!

He continues working at the controls, getting the robot to pour a spoonful of sugar into the teacup and stir.

Ratigan		We will have our device ready by tomorrow evening, won't we? You know what will happen if you... fail?

In Ratigan's hands is a small gold bell which obviously holds a certian threat. He rings it once, but instead of being afraid, Flaversham becomes angry and defiant. Flaversham	I-I-I don't care!

He jerks hard on the controls, making the robot dump the cup of tea on it's head. The robot seizes the teapot and pours that onto its head as well, then hurls it towards Ratingan, who dodges just in time. The robot is flailing around and finally stops, but not before squirting oil out, which lands on Ratigan's coat.

Flaversham	You can do what you want with me. I won't be a part of this... this... this evil any longer!

Ratigan has wiped the oil away breathes out his cigarette smoke. He smiles.

Ratigan		Mmm... very well. if that is your decision. Oh, uh, by the way, I'm taking the liberty of having your daughter brought here. (He pick's up Olivia's ballerina doll and winds it up.)

Flaversham	O-Olivia?

Ratigan		Yes. Hm hm, yes. (He sets the doll down and watches it dance) I would spend many a sleepless night if anything unfortunate were to befall her.

Flaversham	You... You wouldn't!

Ratigan picks up the doll again, and squeezes it until it breaks. He gazes at the doll in mock sorrow, then lunges threateningly at Flaversham.

Ratigan		FINISH IT, FLAVERSHAM!!

With a heavy heart, Flaversham does as he's told. Outside, Ratigan is humming to himself as he writes a list.

Ratigan		Oh, I love it when I'm nasty.

He looks above the doorway to another barrel, where Fidget is hanging from the faucet, sleeping.

Ratigan		Fidget. (Fidget is still asleep, so Ratigan screams in his ear) Fidget! (Startled, the bat falls from his perch and rolls down the stairs at Ratigan's feet.) Bright and alert as always. Here's the list. You know what to do, and no mistakes!

Fidget		No, no. No mistakes, sir. (reading the list) Tools, gears, girl, uniforms.

Ratigan		(Yelling from the doorway) NOW, Fidget!

Fidget		I'm going, I'm going! I'm going!

Fidget rushes over to a drain grate. He lifts it up and disseapers beloew. Inside, Ratigan is approaching his throne, being cheered by his men. He sits down and holds out his cigarette. Several hands offer lit matches, and he lights it and inhales, blowing out several smoke rings.

Ratigan		My friends, we are about to embark on the most odious, the most evil, the most diabolical scheme of my illustrious career. A crime to top all crimes. A crime that will live in infamy!

Most of his men are cheering at this bit of news, save one mouse, Barthelomew, who's attention is focused on his empty mug. He holds it upside down and watches sadly as the last drop of beer falls to the floor.

Ratigan		(holding up newspaper featuring the Queen's picture on the front page) Tomorrow evening, our beloved monarch celebrates her Diamond Jubilee (playing with his words) and... with the enthusiastic help of our good friend, Mr. Flaversham (his men chuckle) it promises to be a night she will never forget! (he burns her picture with his cigarette) Her last night... and my first as supreme ruler of all mousedom!

Ratigan jumps, messing up his hair and collar. As his men cheer for him, he calmly pins his collar back and smooths his hair, then saunters down the red carpet as a spotlight shines on him and an evil tune plays. One of his men hands him his top hat, which he rolls down his arms before putting it on. He gives an evil laugh.

Ratigan		From the brain that brought you the Big Ben Caper The head that made headlines in every newspaper And wondrous things like the Tower Bridge Job That cunning display that made Londoners sob

Ratigan twirls his cane around a rope and yanks on it, causing wine to pour out onto a fountian. Bartholemew's tail is wagging, and he tosses his empty glass over his shoulder, and rushes over to the fountian, drinking from one of the spouts.

Ratigan		Now comes the real tour de force Tricky and wicked, of course My earlier crimes were fine for their times But now that I'm at it again (he kicks Bartholemew into the fountian) An even grimmer plot has been simmering In my great criminal brain

Thugs		Even meaner? You mean it? Worse than the widows and orphans you drowned?

Bartholemew drunkenly climbs out as the rest of the thugs lift Ratigan up into thier arms, spinning him around.

Thugs		You're the best of the worst around Oh, Ratigan Oh, Ratigan The rest fall behind To Ratigan To Ratigan The world's greatest criminal mind.

His men pull back as Ratigan is seated at a harp. The lighting becomes blue as he plays.

Ratigan		Thank you, Thank you. But it hasn't all been champagne and caviar. I've had my share of adversity, thanks to that miserable second-rate detective, Basil of Baker Street.

He directs his gaze to a small mouse toy dressed in a detective suit, needles poking at it.

Thugs		Boo!

Ratigan		For years, that insufferable pipsqueak has interfered with my plans. I haven't had a moment's peace of mind.

Thugs		Aww!

Bartholemew sniffles and begins to sob.

Ratigan		(the lighting turns red) But, all that's in the past! This time, nothing, not even Basil, can stand in my way! All will bow before me!

His thugs bow as the lighting becomes normal again.

Thugs		Oh, Ratigan Oh, Ratigan You're tops and that's that To Ratigan To Ratigan.

Bartholemew	To Ratigan, the world's greatest rat. (hic)

Ratigan spits out his wine in shock. His thugs gasp in terror as Ratigan spins, towering over Bartholemew

Ratigan		What was that? What did you call me?

Thug 1		Oh, oh, he didn't mean it, Professor.

Thug 2		I-it was just a slip of the tongue.

Ratigan		(lifting up Bartholemew by his sweater) I am NOT A RAT!

Thug 3		'Course you're not. You're a mouse!

Thug 1		Yeah, that's right. Right! A mouse.

Thug 2		Yeah, a big mouse!

Ratigan		SILENCE!

Ratigan throws Bartholemew outside. He rolls and shakes his head as he sits up.

Ratigan		Oh, my dear Bartholomew... (dramatically) I'm afraid that you've gone and upset me. You know what happens when someone upsets me.

Ratigan pulls out the bell from his vest pocket. He rings it, and his men gasp in terror as they look to the alleyway, where a shadow is approaching. An enormously fat cat is approaching the oblivious Bartholemew. Bartholemew	Oh, Ratigan Oh, Ratigan You're the tops and that's that. (hic) Oh dear. To Ratigan To Ratigan

The cat has picked up Bartholemew and all we see is the shadow of the mouse hovering over the cat's open jaws. Ratigans men are cowering in the doorway as Ratigan himself is enjoying a cigarette.

Bartholemew	To Ratigan, the world's greatest-

A gulping noice is heard along with the cat's content meow. Two of the thugs remove thier hats and the third wipes a tear from his eye. Ratigan is cooing over his cat, wipping her mouth with his hankerchief.

Ratigan		Tsk, tsk, tsk. Oh, Felicia, my precious, my baby. (he hugs her) Did Daddy's little honey bun enjoy her tasty treat? (Felicia burps in his face. Ratigan looks a little dismayed, but he recovers and struts back towards his terrified men) I trust there will be no further interruptions? (he clears his throat and wraps his arms around his men.) And now, as you were singing?

Singing is clearly the last thing they have on their minds as they huddle close together. But as Ratigan flashes the bell, they get their insperation back. Thugs		Even louder We'll shout it! No one can doubt what we know you can do.

Several of his thugs are now rushing towards him, handing him a robe, a crown, and a diamond topped scepter.

Thugs		You're more evil than even you Oh, Ratigan Oh, Ratigan You're one of a kind To Ratigan To Ratigan

The thugs begin using Ratigans many jewels to form a pyramid. The bottom mouse can't keep his balance on the pearl, and they all tumble. Above, others have been swinging from chandeliers, and one mouse begins to fall. Ratigan holds out his robe to catch him, but at the last moment, pulls back, letting the mouse hit the floor.

Thugs		The world's greatest criminal mind.

As the song ends, they offer one last toast, while Ratigan finishes the rest of his wine. He smirks, and the image cuts back to Basil's flat, on Ratigan's picture. Olivia has told Basil her story, who has taken the case, and is enjoying a pipe. Basil		This case is most intriguing with it's multiplicity of elements... it's many twists and turns. (he turns to Olivia) Now, you're certain you've told me everything? The slightest detail may be important.

Olivia		It's just as I said. And then my father was gone.

Dawson		What do make of it?

Basil begins to pace as Olivia follows him.

Basil		Hmm. Ratigan's up to something. A crime of the most sinister nature no doubt. The question is, what would he want with a toy maker?

Olivia has stopped by the window. Fidget pops down from above as lightining strikes, scaring Olivia. She screams, and Basil turns just in time to see Fidget drop. He rushes to the door.

Basil		Quickly Dawson, we've not a moment to lose!

Dawson		Uh, uh I'm right behind you, Basil.

They rush outside, but Fidget is already gone. Basil looks around and kneels down to look at the sidewalk, where Fidget has left behind his muddy footprints.

Dawson		No sign of the blackguard anywhere.

Basil		Not quite, Dawson. He left some rather unusual footprints. They obviously belong to the same fiend who abducted the girl's father. Ratigan's peg-legged lackey.

Dawson		(Upon finding Fidget's hat) Uh... Basil?

Basil		(he takes the hat) Ah-ha! Excellent work, old man. Ha, ha, ha!

Standing in the doorway is Olivia and Mrs. Judson, who is comforting her.

Mrs. Judson	Now... there's nothing to be afraid of, my dear.

As an excited Basil rushes by, Mrs. Jusdon pulls Olivia back, glaring at Basil for his insensitivity. Dawson enters behind him.

Dawson		(To Olivia) The scoundrel's quite gone.

Basil		(taking off his robe.) Ha-ha! But not for long, Miss Flamhammer.

Olivia		Flaversham!

Basil		(puts on a brown jacket) Whatever. Now, we simply pursue our peg-legged friend until he leads us to the girl's father.

Olivia		Then you'll get my daddy back? (she rushes over and hugs him tightly)

Basil		Yes! (he pushes Olivia down and pulls his legs free from her grasp) And quite soon if I'm not mistaken. Now, hurry along, Dawson. We must be off to Toby's. (he retrieves an inverness cape from a suit of armor and puts it on) Dawson		Toby's?

Basil		Oh, you must meet him. He's just the chap for this. (puts on a deerstalker cap)

Dawson		You-you want me to come?

Basil		Ha! I should think a stouthearted army mouse like you would leap at the chance for adventure.

Dawson		Well, heh, heh. I am rather curious.

Olivia		Wait for me! I'm coming too!

As she rushes to join them, she seizes her hat and scarf, knocking over Basil's violin in the process. He dives down to catch it.

Basil		What? Certainly not! This is no business for children. (sets the violin back on the chair)

Olivia		Are we going to take a cab?

Basil sighs and puts his hand on his forehead as Olivia puts several crumpets into her pocket.

Basil		Oh...(he takes her hand and makes her face him) my dear, I don't think you understand. It will be quite dangerous. (he sits on his violin, breaking it in half. He grunts and pulls the ruined instrument out.) Why you- Look at- (Basil takes a deep breath, trying to control his rage) young lady, you are most definitely not accompanying us. And that is final!

Upstairs in the flat of the famous Sherlock Holmes, Basil opens a small wall design, his secret passage, and peeks outside. Olivia is with them, and she opens it further. Basil glares at her in annoyance.

Basil		And not a word out of you. Is that clear?

Olivia shushes him as two shadows approach. Basil quickly moves the doorway, leaving a small crack open.

Holmes		I observe that there's a good deal of German music on the program. It is introspective and I want to introspect.

Watson		But Holmes, that music is so frightfully dull. Holmes		Come along.

The two men leave, leaving Basil, Olivia, and Dawson free to come out into the open. Basil begins to call out to his friend.

Basil		Toby? Toby?

Olivia		(tugs on Dawson's coat and whispers) Who is Toby?

Dawson		Well my dear, Toby is... well, he's uh, uh... (Olivia waits for an answer as Dawson turns to Basil) I say Basil, who is this Toby chap?

Before Basil answers, thundering footsteps appoach. Towering over them is an adorable basset hound puppy, who is obviously very happy to see Basil.

Basil		Ahh! Here he is now! (He pushes Dawson forward as Toby leans down.) Dawson... Toby.

Dawson		(nervously tipping his hat and patting Toby's nose) Charmed, I'm sure.

Toby doesn't seem too thrilled with the introduction, and growls at Dawson. Basil moves forward and pushes Toby back.

Basil		Now Toby! Toby, stop that! Toby, cease! Desist! Ha!

Dawson is trembling behind the leg of a chair. Toby is now sniffing around the room.

Basil		Tsk, tsk, tsk. Frightfully sorry, old man. Toby has the most splendid sense of smell of any hound I've trained. But he can be deucedly frisky.

Basil chuckles as Toby stops at a footrest, where we can see Olivia's feet from behind the fringe. She cautionsly pushes it aside and smiles at Toby, who seems to like her just fine.

Olivia		Hello Toby! (She pats his nose and Toby sniffs her again) Silly doggy! Would you like a crumpet?

Toby nods happily as Olivia reaches into her coat pocket. She holds it up for him and he licks it off her hand.

Basil		(reaching into his pocket) Here now, Toby? Toby! To the matter at hand. I want you to-

He turns, but Toby isn't listening to him. He's on his back, enjoying a belly rub from Olivia. Basil whistles, and Toby rolls his head back to see him clearing his throat and tapping his foot. Olivia slides off Toby into Dawson's arms, and Toby rolls back to his feet, facing Basil.

Basil		Good, now Toby! Toby.... I want you to find... this fiend!

Basil whips out Fidget's hat, and Toby starts to growl.

Basil		(barking and growling along with Toby) Yes, you know his type. (barks) A villain. (barks) A scoundrel! Low brow. Close set eyes. Broken wing.

Toby pauses and looks at Basil, confused at the description.

Basil		Oh, he's a peg-legged bat with a broken wing. (Toby starts to growl again) Yes! Yes! That's the spirit! Got his scent?

Toby nods happily, and Basil retrieves his leash.

Basil		Good boy, good boy!

Basil turns to face Toby again, but he has turned around and is smiling at Olivia and Dawson. He moves in front of Toby.

Basil		Miss Flamchester!

Olivia		(in unison with Dawson) Flaversham!

Basil		Whatever. Your father is as good as found. (He hooks on Toby's leash.) Toby... (Toby strikes a 'pointer' pose) Sic 'em!

As Toby rushes out, he accidently stomps on Basil. The dazed detective manages to hold on to the leash and quickly regains his wind.

Basil		Ah-ha! Yoicks! Tally ho! Ha-ha! Ha-ha!

Olivia and Dawson rush after the pair, trying to catch up. Cut to a few moments later in the street, where Toby is sniffing at the ground. He gives a sudden howl and breaks into a run. Olivia is holding on to Basil's waist at Toby's collar.

Basil		(calling out behind him) The thrill of the hunt, eh, Dawson?

Dawson		(desperately clinging to Toby's tail, he gives a nervous chuckle) Q-q-quite!

Basil		Oh-hoo-hoo. Our peg-legged quarry can't be far now.

Cut to inside a toy shop. Fidget is inside, removing the Royal British Guard uniforms from toy soldiers. He stuffs them into his sack and reaches into his wing pocket for the list and a pencil.

Fidget		(reading from Ratigan's list and checking it along as he goes) Get the following. Tools, check. I got tools. Gears, double check. I got gears. Girl, (he makes a check and then erases it) No, didn't get girl. Uniforms, (chuckles) I got plently uniforms!

He chuckles again, and is then startled as Toby howls outside.

Fidget		Oh no, oh no. I gotta hide! I gotta hide! Ooh, I gotta hide!

Fidget grabs the hats from the soldiers and stuffs them into his bag. He jumps on top of a clown toy onto a higher shelf, as the list flutters in front of the toy soldiers without him noticing. Back outside, Basil has jumped off Toby's muzzle onto the window ledge.

Basil		Splendid job, Toby!

Olivia is standing on Toby's muzzle and holds out her arms towards Basil. Basil give a look of annoyance, but holds his arms out to her. She jumps and he catches her, and sets her down, nudging her forward. As Dawson is moving down, Toby begins to growl at him again. Dawson tips his hat and is prepared to make a hasty jump, but Toby gives a deliberate sneeze, which sends Dawson tumbling head over heels, hitting Basil. Basil looks down at Dawson, then to Toby.

Basil		Now Toby, sit.

Toby remains standing. Basil marches back down the window still and stands in front of Toby.

Basil		Toby, sit.

Olivia		Sit, Toby.

Toby promptly sits. Basil stares at Olivia. Basil		Good boy. (Moving past Olivia) If you'll excuse me.

Olivia		(to Toby) You be good now. We're going to find my father.

Basil is humming to himself as he inspects the ledge and window. His humming slows as he sees a tiny hole in the center of the small round window. He points at it triumphantly.

Basil		Ah-ha! Here is our friend's entrance.

Dawson		But Basil, how could he fit through such a tiny...

Basil		Observe, Doctor.

Basil takes Dawson's hand and sticks one of his fingers into the hole. He watches confidently as Dawson pulls his hand back, taking the window with him, creating an effective door.

Dawson		Basil, you astound me!

Basil hastily shushes him and climbs in, followed by Olivia, then Dawson. After getting inside, Dawson closes the window. Inside, they walk through the store. Dawson doesn't look where he's going and bumps into something.

Dawson		Ooh! I beg your pardon, I-

Dawson stops when he sees what he hit was a huge doll. He and Olivia look around the toy store.

Dawson		Oh my. Upon my word I've never seen so many toys.

Basil		(Darting out from behind the doll's leg) Behind any of which could lurk a bloodthirsty assassin. So please, Doctor, be very careful.

As Basil steathily moves between the toys and through shadows, Olivia and Dawson stay close behind. They start to climb up a ladder, leading them to a higher shelf. Basil and Dawson quietly creep down the shelf, when a sudden crashing noise from behind causes them to freeze, and Dawson to leap into Basil's arms. They look behind them and see that Olivia has turned on a toy music box, and is watching the noisy fireman band play.

Basil		Oh! What the... Ooh!

Utterly annoyed, Basil pushes Dawson off of him and leaps for the control lever, shutting the toy off. He turns to Olivia.

Basil		(intensely) Please! (softly) Quiet! (to Dawson) Don't let this girl out of your sight.

Dawson stands at attention and salutes as Basil walks past. He looks to Olivia, who is giving a playful salute of her own.

Dawson		(taking her hand) Now Olivia, dear, stay close.

From above, Fidget watches the trio move across a chessboard. Basil pauses by the rook.

Basil		Hmm. (pushes the rook over one space) Checkmate. Ah-ha! (Basil holds his magnifying glass to his eye, staring at Fidget's footprints) Evidence of our peg-legged adversary.

Basil hums as he follows the footprints, stopping at the rows of naked toy soldiers.

Basil		Hmm... how very odd.

Dawson		What is it, Basil?

Basil		Isn't it painfully obvious, Doctor? These dolls have been stripped of their uniforms. And not by any child, either.

He and Olivia glance at each other as they both examine the footprints. Basil looks over his shoulder, having seen more strange evidence.

Basil		Hello. (Basil looks around the insides of mechanical toys, where all the gears are missing) Someone has taken the liberty of removing the clockwork mechanisms from these toys.

Fidget's eyes widen, and he darts away.

Dawson		(finding the list) Basil.

Basil		Please, I'm trying to concentrate.

Dawson		But Basil, I-I- Suddenly music boxes are playing, and winding toys are moving along the shelves. A puppy pokes it's head out of a hat and barks. A bunny is moving an egg shell up and down as a baby chick chirps inside. It rolls by a fiddle player and a carousel. Nearly every toy in the shop is operating on it's own. Olivia, seeing some bubbles, follows them, separating herself from Dawson and Basil. A small Dumbo toy is the source of the bubbles, and there is a mouse-sized baby carraige that is slowly rocking back and forth. Olivia approaches it, and as she reaches up to pull the blanket back, Fidget lunges at her, a bonnet on his head. In the other room, Basil and Dawson hear her terrifed scream.

Dawson		Olivia!

Fidget		(throwing her in the bag) Gotcha!

Basil		(rushing ahead) Quickly Doctor!

As Basil disseapears behind a book, he quickly changes direction as a large ferris wheel toy is rolling towards them.

Basil		Ah, ya, ah! Look out!

He and Dawson leap out of it's way on an Around the World path toy. A large doll is falling right over them, and they run for their lives, but only move the paper path below their feet. Just as the doll is about to land on them and crush them, they reach the end of the path and are able to leap off just as the doll breaks. A piece of the porcelain doll's face rolls towards Dawson, it's eye blinking at him. Basil rushes by, but Fidget has wound up a toy jouster. It moves towards them. Basil is able to leap on a trumpet above him, but the jousting spear has caught Dawson by his jacket, and he his hurled towards a dart board, pinned to it. Basil looks behind him, and his head is crashed between the cymbals of the firemen band music box, which has started up again as well. Basil stumbles over to a pile of marbles and collapes, causing them to scatter, several of which fly towards Dawson, one hitting him on his head. Fidget is making his way to the window.

Fidget		Bye-bye.

He opens the window again, and is nearly eaten by Toby, who barks and growls at the exit. Fidget slams the window shut and climbs up the cash register and back onto the shelfs. Basil has regained consiousness and is once again on his tail. He jumps onto a spring horse, and uses it to jump from shelf to shelf.

Basil		Stop, you fiend!

Basil reaches the top shelf, and falls of the horse at the base of a large pyramid of building blocks. On opposite sides, Basil and Fidget are climbing to the top. Fidget makes leaps at the top, catching the ledge of the open sky roof. Basil tries to leap for him, but as he does, the blocks tumble and fall, taking Basil down with them. Fidget chuckes evilly and throws the tied sack on top of the roof, and climbs out.

Olivia		(muffled) Help! Uncle Basil, help! Help!

Fidget takes the bag and hops from roof to roof, back to Ratigan's lair.

Fidget		(singsong) I got the gears, I got the tools, I got the uniforms, I got the girl, heh-heh-heh-heh.

Inside, Dawson has managed to free himself and is searching for Basil.

Dawson		Basil! Basil!

He hears the sound of a doll repeatedly saying 'Mama', and he pushes aside a small boat and drum to find Basil tangled to the dolls pull string, furiously trying to untie himself.

Dawson		Basil! Olivia... she's...

Basil		She's gone, Dawson! Confound it! I told you to watch over the girl. (he manages to untie the string and falls to the ground, regaining his wind quickly, and his temper.) Now she's been spirited away by that maniacal little monster. Soon to be in the clutches of the most depraved mind in all of London! I should have known better than to...

Basil stops mid-rant and sees Dawson simply standing there, his back turned, and his head hung sadly.

Basil		Than to... Um, eh Dawson? Dawson? (Basil looks concerned) I say, Dawson, old chap?

Dawson		(sniffles and wipes his face with his hankerchief.) Oh, ah, poor girl. I should have watched her more closely.

Basil		(feeling bad) Don't worry, old fellow. It's not entirely hopeless.

Dawson says nothing, but looks towards Basil when the younger mouse puts his hand on his shoulder.

Basil		We'll get her back.

Dawson		Do-do you think there's a chance?

Basil		(lighting his pipe) There's always a chance, Doctor, as long as one can think.

Basil begins to pace around the room, and Dawson sighs, putting his hands in his pockets. A puzzled expression crosses his face as he pulls out the list.

Dawson		'Get the following: tools, gears...'

Basil		(hearing him) What?

Dawson		'Girl, unif-'

Basil		(takes the list) Dawson, you've done it! This list is precisely what we need.

Dawson		What?

Basil		(putting on his deerstalker cap as he rushes to the window) Quickly, back to Baker Street! Back at Ratigan's lair, Flaversham is working on the robot. He tenses at Ratigan's voice.

Ratigan		Ah, Mr. Flaversham. (Flaversham eyes him warily as Ratigan holds his cape dramaticaly) Allow me to present... (moves his cape to reveal Olivia in Fidget's grasp) your charming daughter.

Flaversham	Olivia!

Olivia		Father!

Fidget keeps a tight hold on Olivia as she rushes towards Flaversham. Olivia stomps on his foot and runs to her father as Fidget hops up and down in pain.

Fidget		Owww! My foot, my only foot!

Olivia		(hugging him and crying) Oh Father! I thought I'd never find you.

Flaversham	Oh, there, there, there, there, my bairn. I'm all right. Oh, I was so worried about my little girl.

Ratigan		Oh, how sweet. (Pretends to wipe at his eyes with his hankerchief) Oh I just love tearful reunions. (taking hold of Olivia) Now, come along, my dear.

Olivia		Oh please! Please! (Reaches out to Flaversham as Fidget takes her away) Father!

Flaversham	(Ratigan is holding him by his apron) Olivia! Oh please, professor!

Ratigan		Now, now, Fidget will take good care of her. (threateningly) That is, as long as we have no further delays...

Flaversham	(returning to the robot) Yes, yes, I-I'll finish it. Oh, just don't hurt my daughter. Ratigan		Remember, it must be ready... tonight. (slams the door)

Fidget is carrying Olivia towards a bottle lying on it's side. Olivia		Stop! Let me go! You ugly old thing!

Fidget pushes her inside and puts the cork in the bottle.

Fidget		That ought to hold ya!

Olivia		Help! Let me out! Let me out!

Figet		See how you like that.

He gives her a rasberry, then strides away towards Ratigan, who is looking through the bag.

Ratigan		Ah, the uniforms. Oh Fidget, I knew I could rely on you. Now, you didn't forget anything?

Fidget		(cackles) No problem. I took care of everything. Everything on the list. (he opens his wing to display it, then finally realizes it's gone) Uh-oh

Ratigan		What's wrong?

Fidget		(patting himself down) The list.. I know...

Ratigan		Where is the list?

Fidget		(getting nervous) The list, yeah, yeah, yeah. Well you see, uh, it was like this. I was in the toy store getting uniforms when I heard, A-roo A-roo...

Ratigan		You're not coming through.

Fidget		(on his knees, panting like a dog) A dog came. I ran. I had baby bonnet, girl in bag and Basil chased me.

Ratigan		What? Basil on the case! Why you gibbering little...

Fidget cowers as Ratigan clutches his chest, apparently having a heart attack. His face is red with fury, but just as quickly as his temper rose, it fades again, and he scoops Fidget into his arms.

Ratigan		(chuckles) Oh, my dear Fidget. You have been hanging upside down too long.

Fidget		You mean, you're not mad? I'm glad you're taking it so well.

Ratigan carries Fidget to the back. There is silence until we hear the sound of a bell, and Fidget's terrified scream. Around the corner, Felicia is holding Fidget and trying to put him in her mouth. Fidget keeps making desperate attempts to escape.

Fidget		Not me, you idiot. No, stop you stupid fur ball! Open up! Open up! Ai, ai, ai! Oh, ow! You're hurting my wings!

Ratigan has his back turned and is leaning against a bottle, rubbing his temples.

Ratigan		How dare that idiot Basil poke his nose into my wonderful scheme and foul up everything!

Fidget manages to climb out of Felicia's mouth, only to have her stuff him back inside and keep her mouth plugged with one of her paws.

Fidget		Let me out! Let me out! Help!

Ratigan		Oh I can just see that insufferable grin on his smug face. (he bangs his head against the bottle and winces in pain, but suddenly has a wicked idea) Yes... Yes, I can just see it. (chuckles) Felicia, release him.

Fidget		I'm to young to die!

Felicia pouts for a moment, then spits the poor mangled bat out.

Ratigan		(holding him up by his cheeks) Fidget, you delightful little maniac. You've presented me with a singular opportunity. (drops Fidget, feigning a look of concern) Poor Basil! (deviously) Oh, he is in for a little surprise.

Back at Basil's flat, the detective has lit a lamp and is studying the list with his magnifying glass, Dawson at his side.

Basil		Offhand, I can deduce very little. Only that the words are written with a broad pointed quill pen which has spattered, twice. That the paper is of (tosses it in his hand, testing the weight) native Mongolian manufacture, no water mark. And has (he puts it to his lips and smacks it several times) been gummed, if I'm not very much in error (he sniffs at the paper, then holds it at arms length in disgust) by a bat who has been drinking Rodent's Delight! A cheap brandy sold only in the seediest pubs.

Dawson		Hmm. Amazing.

Basil		(rummaging at his desk.) Oh not really, Doctor. We still don't know where it came from. (pulls out his mircroscope) Perhaps a close inspection will tell us something. (focusing on the letter) Hmm-hmm. Hmm. Coal dust. Clearly of the type used in sewer lamps.

Dawson tries to look through the microscope, but Basil has taken it and is holding it over a small flame, letting it catch fire.

Dawson		Uh but Basil, I-I-

Basil		Shhh! Don't speak!

Basil lets the ashen remains of the paper fall into a bowl, and he pats it down with a small wooden masher. He pours the contents onto a glass jar of a yellow chemical, which turns blue. Dawson stares at the liquid with his bifocals, but Basil has returned with a vial of a red chemical.

Basil		Excuse me Dawson... (holding the red chemical over the jar) Steady hand.

Basil lets a single drop fall. A small puff of smoke comes out as the chemical turns violet. Basil sets the jar below a glass spout and reaches to the other side of the chemistry set to turn on a small flame. The green chemical inside bubbles up and slowly makes it's way through the tubes, Basil encouraging it soflty.

Basil		Yes, yes. Good, good. Come along, come along, come along, come along. Come along, come along, come along come along.... Haha... Yes, yes, good, good. No, bad. Good, good, oh, no. Come along, come on. Yes, come on.

Basil and Dawson watch intently as a single green droplet is hanging above the violet chemical.

Basil		Yes... Yes... (the drop falls, making the chemical turn red) Ah-ha! (puts his arm around Dawson) We've done it, old fellow! This reaction could only have been triggered by the paper's extreme saturation with distillation of sodium chloride.

Basil moves away from the table as Dawson continues to study the now-clear chemical. Dawson		Salt water? Great Scott.

Basil		(rumaging through his maps) It proves beyond a doubt, this list came from the riverfront area. (uses his darts to pin the map to the wall)

Dawson		Ah, now steady on there, Basil.

Basil		No, no. Elementary my dear Dawson. We merely look for a seedy pub at the only spot (Basil marks said spot with another dart) where the sewer connects to the waterfront.

Cut to the waterfront. Toby is sitting on the pier, looking down below him as Basil whispers to him softly.

Basil		Stay Toby, stay.

The camera pans downward, and we see Basil is disquised as a sailor and is using a fake moustache, and is approaching the front door to a pub called The Rat Trap.

Dawson		Uh, Basil?

Basil		(takes out his cigarette) Come, come Dawson.

Dawson		(from behind the pier column) I feel utterly ridiculous.

Basil		Don't be absurd. You look perfect.

Dawson steps out, wearing a bandana, an earring, an eye patch, and a stripped shirt that is much too short for him. He keeps trying to tuck it into his pants, with no luck.

Dawson		(incredulous) Perfect? Perfectly foolish.

Basil shushes him as he opens the door. It certianly is a seedy pub, where clearly every lowlife in London has gathered. The mice are all smoking, playing poker, or drinking at the bar. Some are even passed out from the amount of alchohol they've drunk. A mouse is playing the piano as an octopus onstage is juggling three balls as he tap dances. The barmaid is tickling a patron under his chin, but when he puckers his lips for a kiss, she punches him so hard he flies from his chair. Basil strikes his match against the wall.

Basil		Dawson... (lits his cigarette) stay close and do as I do.

The bartender is cleaning a mug and looks to Basil and Dawson as they approach. Basil signals him for service as he walks to a table. Dawson copies his movements, though his seem to be a little more exaggerated. The bar partrons are eyeing them suspiciously. A knife suddenly lands at the floor in Dawson's path, and he stumbles back, knocking a woman's chair forward.

Dawson		Ah! Oh I do beg your pardon, Madam. ¬(she blows her cigarette smoke in his face, making him choke) Quite unintentional, I assure you.

Everyone laughs at his coughing as the woman returns to her poker game.

Dawson		How impertinent!

Basil		(whispering) Remember Dawson, we're low-life ruffians.

Dawson		Well, I was until that...

Basil shushes him as they take their seats. Dawson gives a haughty nod at the woman. On stage, the octopus has nearly finished his dance. The pianist is getting nervous seeing the unhappy faces of all the patrons. The octupus finishes, and catches his balls in his hat and bows, apparently very suprised to hear the applause coming from Dawson. The boos quickly drown him out however.

Lowlife		Get off, you eight-legged bum!

The octopus quite literally runs for his life offstage as food, knifes, bottles, and darts are thrown towards him. The barmaid comes up to Basil and Dawson's table.

Barmaid	What's your pleasure, mates?

Dawson		Uh.. I'll have a dry sherry with... oh perhaps a twist of-

Basil has clamped his hand over Dawson's mouth, and has adopted a ruffian accent.

Basil		Two pints for me and my shipmate. Oh, by the way. We just got into port. We're looking for an old friend of mine. Maybe you know him. Goes by the name of Ratigan!

At the mention of Ratigan's name, the barmaid gasps, as well as several poker players and the pianist. They stare at Basil in shock as the barmaid recovers from her shock.

Barmaid	I... never heard of him.

Dawson is nervous at all the stares, but Basil seems to be pretty pleased with the reaction he got. The pianist has started another song, and the curtians open to reveal a salamander on a unicycle, exhausted from the effort of holding a huge frog on his shoulders. The patrons immeaditely resume booing and throwing food and weapons onstage. As a knife strikes the piano, the pianist nervously begins the third act. The patrons are already armed with chairs, darts, and one with an ax, ready to throw them at whoever is next. But when the curtians open, a pretty lady mouse stands onstage, wearing a blue tank top, purple skirt, and pink shawl. The patrons slowly lower their weapons as she begins to sing to them.

Miss Kitty	Dearest friends, dear gentlemen Listen to my song Life down here's been hard for you Life has made you strong Let me lift the mood With my attitude

As the beat picks up, she begins to strut onstage as every eye is focused on her, bouncing along with her song. Dawson looks as though he's fallen in love.

Miss Kitty	Hey fellas The time is right Get ready Tonight's the night Boys, what you're hopin' for will come true Let me be good to you

Basil seems to be the only one uninterested in the singer. He turns over to the bar and sees the barmaid whisper something into the bartenders ear, who discreatly pours the contents of a vial into two mugs of beer.

Miss Kitty	You tough guys You're feelin' all alone You rough guys The best o' you sailors and bums All o' my chums

So dream on		And drink your beer Get cosy Your baby's here You won't be misunderstood Let me be good to you

She moves behind the curtian as the band joins in, picking up the beat even more. The curtians pull back, and Miss Kitty is joined by two other twin lady mice, in pink hats, dresses and black elbow length gloves. Miss Kitty herself has put on black gloves, gotten rid of her shawl, and rips off her skirt, revealing her garter and feather boa around her waist. The patrons whistle, and one is trying to climb onstage. His buddies try and pull him back, but Miss Kitty kicks him down.

Miss Kitty	Hey fellas I'll take off all my blues Hey fellas There's nothin' I won't do Just for you!

Miss Kitty points to Dawson, who seems very bashful now. She leaves the stage, leaving the other lady mice onstage to dance for the pub. The barmaid has returned to Basil and Dawson's table, and hands them their drinks.

Barmaid	There you are, boys. It's uh... on the house.

Dawson		I say, how very generous.

Basil		Dawson... (Basil swirls his finger in the beer and takes a small taste) these drinks have been...

Unfortunatly, Dawson has already drained his beer.

Basil		Drugged!

Dawson		(drunkenyl) Has a rather nice bite to it. (turns his attention back to the stage, and cheers and applauds loudly) Jolly good, ladies, jolly good!

Basil		Dawson, get a hold of yourself!

Dawson		(not listening to him) Oh, bravo, bravo.

Basil is irritated until he hears the sound of a peg-legged figure approaching. Fidget's attention is focused on the showgirls as well, and doesn't notice that Basil has seen him. Fidget's peg gets caught in a hole in the floorboard, and he falls, and angrily yanks his foot out, sending himself stumbling back into the bar. During this, Miss Kitty has come back on stage and is finishing her song.

Miss Kitty	So dream on		And drink your beer Get cosy Your baby's here Hey boys, I'm talkin' to you

Basil		If it isn't our peg-legged friend. Dawson, ooh hoo, what luck! (he turns and sees Dawson is gone) Dawson? (looks to the stage in shock) Dawson!

Dawson has joined the showgirl's dance. Miss Kitty takes his arm and swings him around, and he rejoins the twins. Basil slaps his forehead and drags his hand down his face.

Miss Kitty	Your baby's gonna come through Let me be good to you

The twins each give Dawson a kiss on the cheek. He giggles, then drunkenly twirls right of stage and onto the piano.

Miss Kitty	(striking one final pose) Yeah!

A dazed Dawson is having visions of showgirls dancing around his head. The pianist is ready to hit him with a plank, but just as he swings, Dawson slumps down again. The pianist instead hits the head of a big mean looking mouse. He tries to hid the plank, but the larger mouse grabs him by the neck and is about to punch him. He manages to get loose, resulting in the punch hitting the piano so hard it crashes into the band members, sending them and Dawson flying in seperate directions. Dawson lands on his back as an all out brawl breaks out. Mice are strangling each other, hitting them with whatever they can, be it a shoe, a chair, or kicking them as they swing from a ceiling lamp. The barmaid and bartender rush over to break up the fight as Fidget enjoys his mug of Rodent's Delight. Several gunshots go off, some of which shatter the lightbulbs. Basil has found Dawson and is helping him sit up, lightly slapping his cheek to wake him up.

Basil		Dawson? Dawson!

Dawson		(the drug has worn off) What? What? (seeing the fight) What in heaven's name is going on?

Basil		I've spotted our peg-legged- (Basil looks to the bar, but Fidget is gone. Basil helps Dawson to his feet) Come on, old fella. There's not a moment to lose.

The bar fight has become even more violent. Basil sees a trapdoor behind the bar and he and Dawson move towards it, unnoticed. The fight continues as Dawson climbs down the passageway, with Basil right behind him. Basil slowly shuts the door, just as a chair flies over and hits it. Down below, Basil sees Fidget up ahead, climbing into a drain pipe. Basi motions for Dawson to follow him and they quietly creep behind, as Fidget sings the showtune to himself.

Fidget		Let me be good to you...Ba-boo ba-boom.... So dream on, and drink your beer... Your baby's here!

Basil and Dawson look into the pipe, seeing Fidget dissappear into the darkness.

Dawson		Basil-

Basil		(shushes him and climbes insided) Follow me.

The camera slowly pans upward. From inside the pipe, we can hear Basil and Dawson as they atke their way up the pipe.

Dawson		Great Scott. I can't see a thing.

Basil		Shh. Grab my coat and follow along. No, no, no, not that way. Dawson, look out for your-

A sealed cap rattles as Dawson walks straight into it.

Dawson		Oww! Confound it!

The camera continues moving up along with Basil and Dawson.

Dawson		Do you have any idea where we're going?

Basil		But of course. Left turn. Right turn here, Doctor.

Finally, we reach the drain grate by Ratigan's hideout. Basil lifts up the grate.

Basil		Ah-ha Dawson! We found it! Ratigan's secret lair! (as he climbs out and holds the grate open for Dawson) And it's filthier than I imagined.

They slowly creep over to the entrance, and notice Olivia curled up in the bottle, apparently asleep, with her back to them.

Basil		Oh, Dawson. The bottle!

They carefully sneak over to the bottle. Basil jumps on the neck of the bottle and begins to pull at the cork.

Basil		It's stuck.

Dawson		(whispering as he knocks on the glass) Olivia?

Fidget, as it turns out, was in the bottle, dressed in Olivia's clothing. He turns to them, with a sinister smile as he make a kissy face.

Thugs		Suprise!!

Basil drops to the ground, startled, as a large banner that reads "Welcome Basil" unfurles from the ceiling. Balloons are released and confettii flies as Ratigan's thugs clap and cheer mockingly for our heroes. Ratigan stands at the doorway, appaulding.

Ratigan		Bravo! Bravo! A marvelous performance.

Ratigan chuckles as he moves to Basil, who is glaring at his archenemy with hatred. Ratigan pulls out his pocket watch.

Ratigan		Though frankly, I expected you fifteen minutes earlier. Heh heh. Trouble with the chemistry set, old boy?

Basil stiffens at the insult. He recovers, and takes on an almost friendly tone.

Basil		Ratigan, no one can have a higher opinion of you than I have. (no longer friendly) And I think you're a slimy contemptible sewer rat!

Ratigan calmly shuts his pocket watch and puts it away. He chuckles.

Ratigan		By the way Basil, I just love your disguise. (he rips off Basil's mustache and his thugs laugh as Ratigan inspects his hat) Really, one would hardly recognize you. The greatest (nudges Basil and starts to laugh) detective (leaning over him) in all mousedom!

Ratigan laughs even harder as he walks away. Basil is seething.

Basil		Ratigan, so help me... I'll see you behind bars yet!

Ratigan		(gets in his face) You fool! Isn't it clear to you? (lifts Basil by his collar and shakes him with one hand) The superior mind has triumphed! (drops Basil) I've won!

Ratigan laughes evilly as Fidget and the rest of his thugs join in. Basil steeles himself against the jeering and pointing, but after a few moments, slumps, defeated and broken. Dawson stares at his friend in concern, but doens't know how to help him. Basil hangs his head as the cruel laughter continues. Ratigan is clutching at his sides.

Ratigan		Oh I love it! I love it! (laughing) Oh I love it, I love it, I love it!

Cut to a few moments later, where several of Ratigan's thugs have tied Basil and Dawson to a mousetrap, and are now setting the trap.

Ratigan		You don't know what a delightful dilemma it was trying to decide on the most appropiate method for your demise.

Fidget nervously sets the switch and scampers away. Dawson flinches as the bonebreaking metal vibrates slightly. Basil is looking kinda catatonic, and is simply staring off into space.

Ratigan		Oh, I had so many ingenious ideas I didn't know which to choose. So, I decided to use them all.

Ratigan gives a grand gesture to reveal a gun, a crossbow, an axe, and an anvil, all of which are aimed directily at Basil and Dawson.

Ratigan		Marvellous, isn't it? Oh ho... But here, let me show you how it works. Picture this. (Fidget, via Vanna White, gestures to the record player as Ratigan explains his dastardly death trap) First, a tune I've recorded especially for you. As the song plays the cord tightens and when the song ends, (we see that the cord is moving upward, tied to a cork which is supporting a wine glass with a metal ball inside) the metal ball is released. (a slide construceted of wood and pipes is aimed directly at the mousetrap trigger release) rolling along its merry way until.... (here as Ratigan speakes, he gestures to each individual weapon, starting with the mousetrap....) Snap! (the gun) Boom! (the crossbow) Twang! (the axe) Thunk! (and the anvil) Splat!

Dawson winces as Ratigan removes his hat in a form of salute.

Ratigan		And so ends the short, undistinguished career of Basil of Baker Street.

Dawson		You're despicable!

Ratigan		Yes. (he chuckles as Fidget, now dressed in a British guard uniform, runs over to him) Everything's ready, Fidget?

Fidget		All set, boss.

Ratigan		(Ratigan peeks inside a large white box with a pink ribbon and chuckles wickedly) Oh, this is wicked! So delightfully wicked.

Several thugs, dressed in British Guard uniforms as well, move the package as Ratigan walks over to Flaversham, who is bound by ropes, standing by Olivia's bottle, where we see that she's safe and sound, for now.

Ratigan		Mr. Flaversham, let me congratulate you on a superb piece of craftsmanship. (he knocks at the glass) See what you can do with the proper motivation?

Ratigan cackles and pinches Flavershams cheek as more of his thugs, all dressed in the uniforms, climb on to Felicia's back.

Ratigan		You all know the plan.

Thugs		(saluting) Right, Professor. (they exit)

Ratigan		It was my fond hope to stay and witness your finale scene but you were fifteen minutes late and I do have an important engagement at Buckingham Palace. (Dawson eyes him) Now, you will remember to smile for the camera, won't you? (a camera is indeed set up, ready to shoot) Hmm? Say 'cheese'.

Dawson		You fiend!

Ratigan		(starting the record) Sorry chubby. You should have chosen your friends more carefully.

Record		(Ratigan singing) Goodbye so soon And isn't this a crime We know by now that time knows how to fly

Fidget is operating a dirigible, and flies by Ratigan. The mysterious package is attached by a rope, and a ladder is lowered, and Ratigan climbs on, waving

Ratigan		Adieu, auf wiedersehen, arrivederci, farewell!

Record		So here's goodbye, so soon.

Ratigan		(chuckles) Bye, bye Basil.

Now in the dirigible, Ratigan steers it in and up through the furnace and into the night.

Record		We go our seperate way With time so short I'll say so long And go so soon Goodbye

Back inside, the record is slowly tightening the cable

Record		You followed me		I followed you We were like each other's		Shadows for a while Now as you see This game is through So although it hurts I'll try to smile As I say...

The music contiues to play as Olivia stares out of her glass prison at Basil and Dawson.

Dawson		Wh-wh-what did he mean, an engagement in Buckingham Palace?

Basil		(sighes, then answers him, seemingly unconcerned) Haven't you figured it out yet, Doctor? The Queen's in danger and the Empire's doomed.

Dawson		The Queen?!?

Outside Buckingham Palace, trumpets play as the camera moves down show the mouse entrance. Even now, well dressed mice are entering to see the Jubiliee. Inside her bedroom, the Queen is preparing herself. Little does she know, that just outside her doors, her guards have been ambushed and replaced by Ratigan's thugs.

Thug		Psst- over here. Come over here.

The Queen is distracted by the sound of knocking at her door and adjusts her crown before answering.

Queen		Hmm? Come in.

Thug		Ah, begging your Majesty's pardon. A present has just arrived in honour of your Jubilee.

The thug moves aside as Fidget and several others bring the large package inside. The Queen is delighted, and walks over.

Queen		A present? Oh how wonderful! Ah, I just adore Jubilees.

Fidget		(handing her the attatched note) Here you are sweetheart.

Queen		(eyeing him suspicously) Have you... been with us... long? (reading) 'To our beloved Queen this gift we send as her 60 year reign... comes to an end?

Fidget and the other thugs pull the ribbons and sides down to reveal an exact robot replica of the Queen. She studies it.

Queen		How extraordinary!

Suddenly, the robot comes to life and grabs at the Queen. She runs as the Robot Queen chases her around the bedroom.

Queen		Goodness gracious!

The robot suddenly halts, as Ratigan appears at her doorway, with Flaversaham operating the controls.

Ratigan		Amazing likeness, isn't it, Your Majesty?

Queen		Professor Ratigan! Guards! Seize this despicable creature! (Fidget snickers)

Ratigan		(into a speaker...) Guards, seize this

Robot Queen	(Ratigan's voice sounds like the Queen's) Despicable creature!

Ratigan laughs into the speaker, giving the Robot Queen his same cruel laugh. His thugs now have hold of the true Queen.

Queen		Oh how dare you!

Ratigan		Take her away! (rings his bell)

Queen		Let go of me, you ruffians!

Fidget		Move along, honey!

Queen		You fiends!

As they drag the Queen away, Ratigan wipes his hankerchief on the now silent Robot Queen's cheek.

Queen		Traitors!

Back at Ratigan's lair, the record is still playing, but Basil has still made no attempt to free everyone. Olivia is pushing at the cork, to no avail.

Record		It's through so although it hurts I'll try to smile As I say goodbye So soon and isn't this... Dawson		Basil? (Basil groans) Basil!

Basil		Oh how could I have been so blind?

Dawson		We all make mistakes! But we can't let that stop us! We have to-

Basil		Ratigan's proved he's more clever than I. (scoffs) He would never have walked into such an obvious trap.

Dawson		Oh pull yourself together! You can stop that villain! Why-

Dawson suddenly looks over to the record, which is skipping. Over Ratigan's continued 'So long' Dawson continues to try and knock some sense into Basil.

Dawson		Basil! The record!

Basil		Oh, it's finally happened! I've been outwitted!

Dawson		Oh, Basil, please!

Basil		Beaten! Duped! Made a fool of! (Dawson's getting angry) Oh, ridiculed! Belittled! Dawson		That's enough!

The record fixes itself, and the song continues. Time is running out...

Dawson		Dash it all Basil! The Queen's in danger, Olivia's counting on us. We're about to be horribly 'splatted' and all you can do is lie there feeling sorry for yourself. Well, I know you can save us. But if you've given up then why don't we set it off now and be done with it?

Record		We know by now that time knows how to fly

Basil		(gives a weak chuckle.) "Set it off now." (is struck with an idea) Set it... off... now? Ye...Yeah! (laughs) Yes! We'll... We'll set the trap off now!

Basil grins maniacally, but Dawson is horrified.

Dawson		Basil! Wait! I didn't mean that we ought-

The song has ended, and the ball is on it's way. Back in his true form, Basil quickly forms a plan.

Basil		The angle of the trajectory multipled by the square root of an isosceles triangle... (mumbles) dividing Guttermeg's principle of opposing forces in motion (mumbles) and adjusting for the difference in equilibrium! Dawson, at the exact moment I tell you, we must release the triggering mechanism.

The ball's getting closer, Dawson is ready, but terrifed.

Basil		Get ready, Dawson.... Steady.... Now!

Basil and Dawson hit the trigger, saved from the metal switch by the ball that was stopped just between their heads. The vibration loosens one of the pegs, which ricochets towards the gun, causing it to misfire and hit the crossbow, which instead of being aimed at Basil and Dawson, flies towards the axe, cutting off the head. The blade falls lenghtwise, slicing through the ropes and trap, effectivly freeing them. The anvil falls seconds later, missing them both. The force of the anvil hitting the ground rattles Olivia's bottle, loosening the cork and sending her sailing through the air. As Dawson leans heavily against the anvil, Basil sheds his sailor costume and puts his deerstalker cap back on. He puts one arm around Dawson and holds the other out in the air.

Basil		Thank you, Dawson. (Olivia lands right in Basil's open arm, and he brings the two of them close) Smile everyone!

The camera goes off, capturing Basil's brilliant smile, and Olivia and Dawson's stunned expressions. Meanwhile, at the palace, Ratigan's thugs are playing the trumpets to announce the queen's entrance. The crowd is fooled by the Robot Queen as it steps out.

Robot Queen	On this most august occasion we are gathered here not only to commemorate my 60 years as Queen but to honor one-

Ratigan watches from behind the curtian as Flaversham's voice takes over. A rifle is pointed at his back as one of the thugs is holding notecards for Flaversham to read.

Flaversham	Of truly noble stature. I present to you a statesman among mice. A gifted leader.

Robot Queen	A crusader for justice!

The real Queen, tied and gagged, is being dragged to the balcony by Fidget.

Fidget		Over here, fatty. You're a ton, toots.

The Queen's eyes widen as she sees Felicia jumping up and down outside, eager for a snack.

Fidget		Here kitty, kitty. Time for mouse chow.

Robot Queen	A majestic mountain of humility. And my new Royal Consort. Professor Ratigan!

The crowd backs away, horrified as Ratigan bursts out, wearing a crown and purple robe decorated with medals. A child blows a rasberry at him, and his mother quickly covers his mouth. Outside, Basil, Olivia, and Dawson are now back at the waterfront. Basil whistles, and Toby comes running.

Basil		Toby! (Toby kisses Olivia) The game's afoot, Toby. Our Queen is in mortal danger.

Toby puts his game face on, and his ear makes a whip sound as he folds it into a staircase. Basil and the others climb onto his neck, and Basil points ahead.

Basil		To Buckingham Palace!

Barking, Toby rushes ahead. Back at the Palace, Ratigan give an exxaggerated bow to the fake Queen. Ratigan		Thank you, Your Majesty. And now as your new Royal Consort I have a few uh, slight suggestions. (Ratigan pulls out a roll of paper and lets it fall, where it rolls down the aisle of the Grand Hall, and well past the curtian where one of his men has opened it for him) Ahem. Item one.

Fidget is grunting as he carries the Queen on his back. The queen is kicking him.

Fidget		Stop that! (grunting)

Toby is still racing towards the castle, running right in front of a carriage. The horses rear back, but Toby, undaunted, keeps running. Dawson has once more fallen back and is hanging on to Toby's tail for dear life. Fidget has made it to the edge of the balcony, where Felicia is sitting below, waiting patiently. Toby has made it to the palace, and holds his nose to a ledge, where Basil, Olivia, and Dawson race in through a mouse hole. Fidget now has the queen held high over his head, and Felicia's jaws are open.

Fidget		(straining) Nuts... Open wide. Bye-bye!

Basil and the others race down the hallway. Just as Fidget is about the throw the Queen over, Basil grabs her. Fidget falls, and attempts to fly away from Felicia. He manages to cling to the edge of the balcony, and is trying to avoid Felicia's jaws.

Fidget		(shouting gibberish) Down, down, kitty! Down!

The sound of barking distracts Felicia, and she turns to see Toby running straight for her. She screeches, and runs as fast as she can, with Toby close behind. Inside the Great Hall, Ratigan is continuing down his list of tyrannyic laws.

Ratigan		Item 96 (snickers) A heavy tax shall be levied against all parasites and sponges. Such as the elderly, the infirm and especially (snickers) little children.

Ratigan leans upside down over the railing to sneer at the boy from before. He looks at him defiantly before his mother whisks him away. An old man with a cast and crutch approaches him angrily.

Old Man	That's ridiculous. You're insane.

Ratigan		Perhaps I haven't made myself clear. (takes the crutch from the man, who falls) I have the power! (breaks the crutch in half)

Robot Queen	Of course you do.

Ratigan		(jumps on the banister) I am supreme.

Robot Queen	Only you.

Ratigan		This is my kingdom!

Ratigan laughes evilly as the crowd cowers under his shadow. In the backroom however, Basil has found Flaversham and the rest of Ratigan's men. Ratigan stops laughing and clears his throat, and sits on the banister to address the Robot Queen.

Ratigan		That is of course with your Highness' permission.

There is no answer right away, and Ratigan gives it a light slap, making it spring back to life.

Robot Queen	Most assuredly... (it glares at him) you insidious fiend.

Ratigan		What?

Robot Queen	You're not my Royal Consort!

Ratigan		(covering it's mouth and addressing the crowd) What a sense of humor.

Robot Queen	(ducks down to free itself) You're a cheap fraud and impostor.

Ratigan		(under his breath) Flaversham!

As Ratigan smiles nervously at the crowd, we see that behind the curtian, it is now Basil at the controls. Olivia and Flaversham are embracing as Dawson holds a rope around Ratigan's thugs. The Queen has her rope around Fidget, and gives it a tight tug.

Basil		A corrupt, vicious, demented, scoundrel. There's not evil scheme you wouldn't concoct.

Basil jerks at the controls, causing the robot's head to fly up and spin, biting Ratigan's nose. He forces the head back down, but both arms spring out, hiting him in the stomach. Ratigan moves in front of the robot, hiding it from the crowd's eyes, but they aren't buying his scheme anymore.

Robot Queen	(pushing past Ratigan) No depravity you wouldn't commit.

Ratigan tries to force his weight on the robot, but it springs upward, bringing him up with it, then letting him fall.

Basil		You Professor-

Basil jerks even harder on the controls. Outside, the robot is falling apart.

Robot Queen	are none other than a foul stenchus rodentus, commonly known as a

Ratigan's temper flares as he seizes the robot by the neck.

Ratigan		DON'T SAY IT!

Basil		(bursts from behind the curtian and points) Sewer rat!

Ratigan screams and arches his back. He stares in shock at Basil

Basil		Arrest that fiend!

Basil, Dawson, Flaversham, and the queen tackle Ratigan as several other mice rush forward to help. Other mice are fighting of the rest of Ratigan's men. Olivia watches from behind the curtian, not noticing that Fidget has managed to free himself from his ropes. Outside, Felicia is still running from Toby. She darts through bushes and flower beds and scrambles up a wall, where Toby can only leap up halfway and bark at her. Felicia snickers and lifts her chin at him. She turns, lifting her tail, and making a show of leaping down the other side. Seconds later she gives another terrified screech as several more dogs can be heard barking and growling. Felica's ribbon and fur flies as the camera pans over to reveal she jumped right into the Royal Guard Dogs' Kennel. Back inside, Ratigan throws his attackers away and sheds his robe. Fidget whistles at him from a high balcony, holding Olivia.

Fidget		The girl! The girl!

Flaversham turns, horrifed as Ratigan jumps from mouse to mouse, and grabs a robe to swing himself to the balcony. Basil, Dawson and Flaversham rush foward only to freeze as Ratigan holds Olivia threateningly over the edge.

Ratigan		Stay where you are or the girl dies!

He dissappears behind the curtian, taking Olivia with him.

Basil		Hurry Dawson!

Basil leads Dawson and Flaversham outside.

Basil		(pointing up towards Ratigan's dirigible) There he goes!

Basil climbs up a flag pole and shouts down.

Basil		Dawson! Flaversham! Gather up those ballons.

Over a dozen ballons are tied to the palace gate. As Dawson and Flaversham move to take them, Basil begins to lower England's flag. A storm is approaching as Fidget pedals the dirigible and Ratigan steers. Olivia is bravely standing up to the villian.

Olivial		Just wait! Basil's smarter than you! He's going to put you in jail. (tugs on his tail) He's not afraid of a big, old, ugly, rat like you.

Ratigan		(taking his tail back)Would you kindly sit down and SHUT UP!

Ratigan's yell sends Olivia flying back, knocking over a stool and into the wall. Ratigan turns and sees the British flag flying in front of him, blocking his path. Fidget cowers as it moves higher. Basil has taken the flag, the balloons, and a sliding match box for him, Dawson and Flaversham to fly in. Ratigan sneers and turns the dirigible as Fidget begins to pedal faster.

Basil		Let her go, chaps!

Dawson and Flaversham release air from an open balloon, closing the distance between them and Ratigan easily, Ratigan leads them around roofs and chimmenys, up and around a statue of Lord Nelson and straight ahead towards the Tower Bridge. Fidget pedals as fast as he can as Ratigan stears the dirigible just below the bridge. Dawson braces himself for a crash, but at the last moment, they move downward, just missing it. Up head, Fidget stops, out of breath and exhausted. Ratigan glares at him as he hops inside and gestures towards Olivia

Fidget		We have to lighten the load.

Ratigan		Oh, you want to lighten the load!

Fidget snickers at Olivia, but Ratigan seizes him by the ears and tosses him over instead. Ratigan		Excellent idea! Fidget		No! Not me! I can't fly! I can't fly!

Fidget falls into the river Thames as Ratigan hops on the propeller and moves forward. It's not enough however, as Basil and the others have finally caught up. Basil is preparing to jump.

Basil		Steady!

Basil catches the tail of the aircraft, swinging forward. Ratigan ducks as Basil's feet just miss him. The two adversaries glare at each other, until a terrified scream comes from Olivia. With Ratigan at the pedal, there is no one to steer, and they are heading directly for parliment's clocktower. Ratigan can only scream himself as the dirigible smashes into the face of the giant clock. On the mouse-made hot air balloon, all Dawson and Flaversham can do is stare at the empty dirigible hanging from the hole, and pray that their friends are alright. Inside the clocktower, Basil awakens and rubs his neck, then stares in shock and amazement at the gears and cogs surrounding him. Creeping up unnoticed behind him is Ratigan, his fist poised, ready to knock Basil down, the other hand clamped over Olivia's mouth. The little girl struggles and finally pulls free.

Olivia		Basil, look out! Basil turns as Ratigan knocks him down. Basil rolls and catches the ends of the rotating gear, trying to pull himself back up as Ratigan prepares to deliver another blow. Olivia bites his hand, making Ratigan scream in pain, giving Basil the opportunity to climb up the gear and seize the professor's cape, and tangle it between two gears. Ratigan drops Olivia to hold onto his cape to keep from getting strangled, but kicks Olivia off the gear. She falls, landing on a much larger gear, connected to another one that will crush her in a matter of seconds. Thinking quickly, Basil jumps from the gear and onto a lever, which lifts up a chain towards her. The final keg is approaching Olivia as Basil gets closer. She tries to flatten herself against the gear as Basil reaches his hand up. Basil seizes her arm just as the gears connect, and the two smile at each other as the chain continues to lift them to the top of the tower. Down below, Ratigan's face is filled with anger. As he watches the pair make their escape, his sanity snaps, and with a burst of strength, he tears his cape in half, freeing himself. Basil and Olivia stop at the hole at the top of the tower, trapped. The camera zooms downward as the storm outside gains power. Inside, Ratigan is completely consumed. Gone is the egotistical gentleman. In his place is a terrifyingly dangerous monster. He's running through and around the many gears, his clothes becoming torn and ragged. Outside, Olivia is tugging on Basil's coat and pointing to Dawson and Flaversham, who are approaching. Ratigan is getting closer. Basil realizes this, and lifts Olivia into his arms, holding her up. Dawson his holding Flaversham by his apron as the toymaker is leaning forward as far as he can, trying to reach Olivia.

Basil		Closer Dawson! Closer!

Ratigan leaps onto the striking hammer, nearly falling, but scrambles up and leaps forward. Basil is still trying to lift Olivia as high as he can, but Olivia and Flaversham can't quite make it.

Olivia		Daddy, I can't reach! I can't reach!

Basil turns just in time to see Ratigan leap forward to tackle him. Basil grunts as Ratigan catches him midsection and the two topple downward. Olivia is tossed into the air, and caught by Flaversham before she falls. They hug, but down below Ratigan is still holding onto Basil. He tries to grasp the top of the tower, but between the rain and Ratigan's weight, he can't get a good grip. They seperate as they fall down the face of the clock. Midfall, Ratigan grabs Basil again, and they hit the hour hand. Basil is sent flying across and lands, his upper body laying over the edge. His vision blurred for only a second, he moves back. Ratigan is no where in sight as Dawson calls out to him, approaching the edge of the hand.

Dawson		Basil! Over here!

Basil looks relieved, but is barely able to take a single step towards his friends when Ratigan attacks him from behind, lifting him up with one arm. Basil manages to wriggle free and runs up towards the edge, but with frightening speed and agility, Ratigan is there, blocking his path.

Ratigan		There's no escape this time Basil!

Basil slides down the hand and tries to put distance between himself and the raging rat, but he is there once more, blocking him. Ratigan holds out his hand and unsheaths his razorsharp claws, and hits Basil twice with such force it sends him flying back. His friends are trying to reach him as fast as they can, but Basil can't hold out much longer. Before he can even stand, Ratigan hits him several more times, almost knocking him off. Basil climbs back up, clutching his arm in pain. He looks up, exhausted as Ratigan hits him again, sending him over the edge. Basil holds on to the tip of the hand as the clock's chimes begin to sound. Lightning strikes as Ratigan rears back. Basil braces himself, but Ratigan's blow sends him down. Dawson and Olivia both try to grab for him, but miss.. They stare in disbelief as their friend plummets to the ground. Ratigan himself almost doesn't believe it, but a cruel smile spreads across his face as he leaps up and laughs maniacally

Ratigan		I won!

However, his victory is cut short!

Basil		On the contrary!

Basil has managed to catch the propellor of the ruined dirigible, as well as something else of value for Ratigan.

Basil		The game's not over yet! (rings the bell)

Ratigan only has time to check his pocket for his missing bell before the minute hand moves to ten o'clock. The striking hammer falls, and Big Ben sounds off. The vibrations force Ratigan over the edge and he falls. He makes one final grab at Basil, catching him by his jacket. The ropes snap under the extra weight. Ratigan falls as Basil clings to the propellor, which has snapped free. Olivia, Dawson and Flaversham are helpless as both Ratigan and Basil dissappear below the clouds. Olivia turns to her father and begins to sob. A squeaking noise is approaching from below, and she leans back to look down. Basil is slowly making his way back up, pedaling with all his might as the propeller is lifting him higher. He hears his friends cheering and smiles.

Dawson		Ho ho! Hooray!

Olivia		Hooray! It's Basil! (hugs Dawson as Flaversham jumps up and down)

Dawson		Good fellow. Jolly good! Ha!

The storm is over as our four friends are finally together and safe. Cut to Basil's flat, where in place of Ratigan's picture, there is a newspaper clipping with a picture of Basil and Dawson bowing before the Queen, apparently being knighted for their bravery. The headline reads: "Queen Honours Detective", along with the subheadlines "Queen Praises Detective Basil, Medal to be Given", and "Time Runs Out for Ratigan".

Dawson		To be thanked by the Queen herself. Oh how very thrilling, eh, Basil?

Basil		(placing Ratigan's bell on the mantle) All in a day's work Doctor.

Olivia		Oh Dr. Dawson you were wonderful!

Dawson chuckles bashfully. Flaversham	Indeed. (looks at his pocketwatch) Oh my, we're late to catch our train. Come along, Olivia. (he leaves)

Olivia		Yes, Father.

It is a very bittersweet moment as Olivia embraces the mouse who saved her life, as well as her father.

Olivia		Goodbye Basil. (sniffles) I-I'll never forget you.

Basil leans down and puts his hands on her shoulders and smiles.

Basil		Nor I you, Miss... (he just can't help himself) Miss Flangerhanger.

Olivia stares for a moment, then shakes her head, a smile on her face.

Dawson		(chuckles) Whatever.

Olivia		Goodbye, Dr. Dawson.

Dawson		Goodbye, my dear.

Olivia walks over to the front door, and turns again.

Olivia		(whispers) Goodbye. (she leaves)

Basil		Well, um... (sniffs) Not a bad little girl, actually.

Dawson		(putting on his hat) Not at all. (sighs) Well, it's time I was on my way too.

Basil		But, um... but I thought...

Dawson		(putting on his jacket) Well, the case is over. Mmm... Perhaps it's... Well, perhaps it's best I found my own living quarters.

Basil		But... (there is a knock at the door) Oh, now who can that be?

Dawson opens the door and a young lady mouse is standing outside)

Lady Mouse	I-is this the home of the famous Basil of Baker Street?

Dawson		(taking off his hat) Indeed it is, Miss. (looks concerned) You look as if youre in some trouble.

Lady Mouse	(crying and wiping at her eyes) Oh I am! I am!

Dawson		Then, you've come to precisely the right place.

Basil		(seizes the moment and puts his arm around Dawson) Ah, allow me to introduce my trusted associate, Dr. Dawson, with whom I do all my cases. Isn't that right, Doctor?

Dawson seems suprised at first, but then understands what Basil is asking him. They shake hands.

Dawson		What? What? Oh, yes. Yes! By all means.

The sentitmental moment lingers for a bit, then Basil gets straight to buisness.

Basil		As you can see Dawson this young lady has just arrived from the Hampstead district and is troubled about the disappearance of an emerald ring missing from the third finger of her right hand. Now, tell me your story and, pray, be precise.

Outside Basil's window, Toby has an ear lifted, nodding along with Basil's conclusion. The camera zooms outward as Dr. Dawson concludes his narration.

Dawson		From that time on, Basil and I were a close team. And over the years, we had many cases together. But I shall always look back on that first with the most fondness; my introduction to Basil of Baker Street, the Great Mouse Detective.

The End