Doctor Who_ The Green Death - Malcolm Hulke [4]
‘Surely that’s something for the police,’ said the Doctor. ‘We’re not policemen.’
The Brigadier lowered his voice, even though no one could possibly be listening to their conversation. ‘Between you and me, Doctor, there may be international implications. Possibility of sabotage at Panorama Chemicals.’
‘It’s all I keep hearing about this morning,’ protested the Doctor, ‘this firm called Panorama Chemicals.’
‘Big stuff,’ said the Brigadier. ‘Important connections at high levels. UNIT’s duty is to protect them. My duty.’
‘Then do your duty, Brigadier,’ said the Doctor. ‘Play at being a policeman if you wish.’
Jo entered wearing a raincoat and carrying a small suitcase. ‘I think I left my newspaper,’ she said.
‘Where are you off to?’ asked the Brigadier.
‘Wales,’ answered Jo, taking her newspaper from the Doctor. ‘To do something about Panorama Chemicals before it kills us all.’
‘My dear young woman,’ said the Brigadier, ‘may I remind you that you are a member of UNIT, and I have just received orders to protect Panorama Chemicals—‘
‘Then you’d better issue an order for my arrest,’ Jo cut in. ‘Fling me into a dungeon, have me court martialled.’ She made for the door.
The Brigadier turned to the Doctor for help.. ‘Doctor, please, tell her she must remain here.’
‘She works for you,’ said the Doctor, ‘not me.’
The Brigadier appealed to Jo. ‘Miss Grant, you could at least explain what you have in mind!’
‘I could,’ she said, ‘but I don’t think you would understand. Our stupid Government has told Panorama Chemicals that they can go ahead with their plans to try and manufacture oil artificially. The result could be universal pollution. There’s a man called Professor Clifford Jones who’s fighting against Panorama Chemicals. He needs all the support he can get. So I’m going to help him.’
‘I’ve heard of that man,’ said the Brigadier. ‘He’s an impractical dreamer.’
Jo tucked the newspaper neatly under her arm, ready to go. ‘So, sir, were Jesus of Nazareth, Christopher Columbus, and Marconi.’
The Brigadier studied Jo for a moment, then smiled. ‘Well, perhaps we can discuss this on the way.’
‘What do you mean, sir?’
‘I have to go there too,’ said the Brigadier. ‘My mission is rather different from yours, but you could at least accept a lift.’ He turned back to the Doctor. ‘I hope you will be coming along as well, Doctor.’
The Doctor was preoccupied with his electrical circuit unit. ‘Sorry, Brigadier. I’m not a policeman, and I am going to Metebelis Three. Miss Grant can explain to you where that is on your little jaunt.’
‘I see.’ The Brigadier’s face was grim. He was not used to his orders being disobeyed. He returned his attention to Jo. ‘Well, Miss Grant, I’ll meet you in the car park in ten minutes.’ He stalked out, ignoring the Doctor.
‘Tell me,’ said the Doctor,’‘why are you really going to this place?’
‘Because I’ve read so much about Professor Jones. He’s fighting for everything that’s important—the sort of things you’ve always fought for.’ Jo paused. ‘In a way he reminds me of a... well, a younger you.’
‘I don’t know whether to feel flattered or insulted,’ said the Doctor, smiling. ‘But don’t worry. I do understand.’ He moved over to the TARDIS. ‘I hope he lives up to your expectations.’
‘Doctor,’ said Jo, suddenly apprehensive, ‘you will be coming back from this Metebelis place?’
‘After I’ve had a little holiday,’ he said. ‘Sure you wouldn’t like to come along? According to the Time Lords’ files there are no monsters, only a few friendly animals. The weather is always fine, and beautiful blue flowers grow in profusion.’
She shook her head. ‘My place is here on Earth, Doctor. Have a good trip.’
The Doctor entered the TARDIS, then looked out from the door. ‘Tell the Brigadier I’ll follow you both down to Wales later.’
Jo beamed. ‘That’s marvellous!’
But the Doctor had already closed the door. Almost immediately Jo heard the sound of the TARDIS dematerialising, like the trumpeting of a thousand wild elephants. Then, as she watched, the battered old police box slowly disappeared.
Two million