# 1: The Undefeated (w. Brian Degas d. Michael Ferguson)

Guest Starring

John Golightly: Capt. Ian Masters
Michael Ensign: Lt. Dave Olding
Julian Fox: Cpt. Freddy Townsend
Mark McManus: Lt. Cameron
Mike Horsburgh: Lt. Newman
Max Faulkner: Capt. Bobby Peters
Colin D. Reese: Doctor
John Beardmore: Brigadier Holmes
Michael Sheard: Kommandant
James Greene: Adjutant
David S. Boliver: German Officer
Ronald Musgrove: German Guard
Ray Emmins: German N.C.O.

Music: Robert Farnon

The episode opens with B&W footage showing a massive number of British officers being captured at Dunkirk by the German soldiers on June 4th 1940 (one of the rare time markers during the series). We later learn that the soldiers were forced to walk the 700-mile distance between Dunkirk and Germany. As a result, most of them are exhausted and sick. In a voice over we hear Churchill's famous speech declaring the involvement of Britain in the war.

Laufen June 26th 1940:

The British prisoners--Capt. Patrick Grant among them--arrive at the Offiziersinternierungslager, Oflag VIIc (roughly translated: prison camp for officers) and are swiftly aligned in the courtyard. When the Kommandant asks for the senior British officer, Brigadier Holmes steps forward and takes responsibility for the troop. In a very impressive speech, the German Kommandant, translated by his adjutant, warns the prisoners against escape: "We shoot those who try, we accommodate those who do nothing."

The prisoners are then processed: they are searched, shaved, washed, and numbered. Incidentally, when the German officer tells Pat Grant that is number is 257, Pat insists that he only has one ID number, his British ID number:58974.

Later on, Pat awakes in the (not so private) prisoners quarters. He meets Captain Ian Master who is doing patiences. The latter asks about news from home which Grant cannot supply. All the while Pat is aggravated by Masters' cavalier attitude towards his captivity because he is already conceiving an escape plan.

In the courtyard a few weeks later (we assume some time went by since Pat grew his hair back), Pat and Ian meet Cpt. Freddy Townsend, and Lt. Dave Olding with whom they elaborate a plan. The four men decide that there are only two alternatives: either to escape under or over the prison wall. The following Sunday night, when all is calm, they test German efficiency regarding their emergency system and their guard patrols. Unfortunately, they find that security is very tight which means they will have to dig a tunnel.

In the basement the British find an empty room. To escape, they will have to dig through stone with three 6-inch nails as their only tools. They evaluate it will take a total of 4 men and 45 days to cover the 30 yards required to reach the wood shed leading to the outside--and freedom. The prisoners' non-stop work coupled with the poor living conditions inside the camp contribute to weaken their health but not their spirit. Armed with patience and perseverance, Pat finds encouragement by comparing himself to the character of Count of Monte Cristo.

When a supply truck enters the court yard some prisoners cause a commotion during which one of them steals hammer and chisel from the truck. Immediately, the guards realize the offense and instigate a search, but to no avail. The Kommandant, appalled by the theft, allows one hour for the guilty party to return the missing tools. On the other hand, Pat--through Lt. Newman--offers freedom to the chap who possesses them. Lieutenant Cameron comes forward so the digging may resume more rapidly with the help of proper tools and additional man power. Nevertheless, the dig is compromised when the team runs into trouble trying to cut through an old sewage chamber which turns out to be still in use.

At any rate, the tunnel is almost completed. Pat suggests they share the escape details to Capt. Bobby Peters, hoping the tunnel might be used for future escapes. On 'D' (for Decisive) Day, Pat, Ian, Dave, Freddy, Lt. Newman and Lt. Cameron manage to reach the wood shed but they find out the door is locked with a padlock: one will have to stay behind to put the lock back on. Cameron reluctantly remains. Dressed as German peasants (men and women), the five men make their way out. In the woods they change clothes again and head for Yougoslavia.

After nine days of difficult time over a rough terrain, all five are recaptured. They realize that escape is impossible without luck.

Regarding the last escape attempt, the Kommandant warns Pat that he will be sent to a special camp (Sonderlager) built especially for hard-core escapers: Colditz Offlag IVc. "There is no escape. It will impress you. Colditz."

To which Grant replies: "Where the hell is Colditz, Sir?"

# 2: Missing, Presumed Dead (w: Ian Kennedy Martin d: Viktors Ritelis)

Guest Starring:

Joanna David: Cathy
Noel Johnson: Devenish
Roy Boyd: Dougal MacLean
Joe Dunlop: Priest
John Ringham: Major Dalby
Michael Bangerter: Capt. Gale
Oscar Quitak: Kommandant Esslin
Michael Wynne: Gestapo Man
Jonathan Blake: Flt. Lt. Waltham
Peter Halliday: Wing Co. Cannock
Brian Godfrey: Morris
Tony Gylby Garner: Edmunds
Walter Horsburgh: Baxter
William Lindsay: Davis
Tim Condren: German Motorcyclist

May 1940

After testing his bomber, Flight Lieutenant Simon Carter scolds the mechanic about the state of the plane cables and other equipment. He criticises the ground crew because he wants to be able to rely on his plane for his two-hour mission that night. His superior officer, Wing Commander Cannock, tempers him.

Cathy, his wife of two months, insists that Simon talks with her father, hoping that he'd be able to change her husband's mind. She is frightened about Simon's involvement in the war but, being a pilot, Simon feels that his role must be an active one. Touched by his wife's concern, he agrees to meet with his father-in-law, Mr.Devenish, but his mind is already made up and he refuses the safer position which is offered to him. However, Mr. Devenish understands Simon and he observes that 'girls don't understand about chaps going off to war. Never will, never did.' Cathy still doesn't when, back at the church where he has left her earlier, Simon silently motions that he hasn't changed his mind. It is good-bye.

That night, Simon's mission is to find a gap in the German defence line but his team must cope with bad weather and heavy artillery attacks. The bomber is eventually hit and the gunner is killed. The plane eventually succumbs to the sustained ground fire and, out of control, it spins down forcing the crew to jump to their fate in German territory.

Simon reaches the ground, hides his parachute and search for the rest of his crew. MacLean is the only one he finds. His parachute is still trapped in the trees as both of his legs are broken and he is unable to brake free.

Back in England, Cathy receives the news that Simon's plane fell over Germany and that he is missing, presumed dead. Cannock tells her they will have to wait two to three weeks before they know if he has been made prisoner.

In the morning, Simon and MacLean try figuring where they are and how to get back since Simon refuses to abandon his companion. Trying to find help, he makes contact with a German priest who sends him away because he knows the Gestapo has him under surveillance. Later on, Simon tries to make contact in the chapel but he is rebuffed once again. On his way out, he is caught by the Gestapo.

Fortunately for MacLean he too was captured so he will at least receive some medical attention. The Gestapo also arrests the priest because he used the church to hide Jewish children. In the truck that drives them to a prison camp, the two men overpower the Gestapo officer and neutralise the driver. The priest goes his way across country while Simon escapes with the truck. He rides until he reaches a road block and since Simon doesn't speak any German, he finds himself in trouble and is arrested once again. This time, the Gestapo officer takes revenge on poor Simon and gives him the beating of his life.

He his conducted at Octenlager II to Kommandant Ennlis. Suffering from the beating he leaves quietly for his quarters while the British senior officers discuss the Flight Lieutenant's arrival. The commanding officer's sole concern is the tranquillity of the camp and he couldn't care less about 'RAF trouble makers' as he calls them. The following morning, he informs Simon about the relax-and-find-something-useful-around-here policy. Simon disagrees: he wants to escape but the prospect of waiting until next June--Simon's chance to decamp--doesn't appeal to him. He desperately needs to get out.

Using two prisoners hiding in laundry baskets as a diversion, Simon steals the laundry truck and drives away. With German officers on his tail, he rides until a leak caused by a bullet shot through the gas tank forces him to abandon his vehicle. Discovering rail tracks, he decides to board the train when it passes but gets off before arriving to the railway station where he suspects German patrols are waiting for him.

Resourceful as always, Simon blocks the road with a tree trunk and waits for the next passing vehicle hoping to jump on top of a truck when the driver stops to clear the road. When the truck comes to a stop, Simon gets off and walks up to a local farm. Hungry, he borrows a few eggs from the fowl and while feasting, he is caught and captured... 4 miles from the camp!

Brought back to Kommandant Ennlis at Octenlager II, Simon is labeled a dangerous man and stubborn escaper. He is sent to the special prison camp from which there is no escape: Colditz.

# 3: Name, Rank and Number (w: Arden Winch d: Peter Cregeen)

Guest Starring

Nigel Stock: Gestapo Officer One
John Quentin: Paul Von Eissinger
Terrence Hardiman: Gestapo Officer Two
Grahame Mallard: Leutnant Lehr
David Garfield: Diels
Edward Kelsey: French Doctor
Tim Meats: German Captain
James Taylor: Polish Captain
John Bryans: German Guard
Gordon Faith: Ward Orderly
Graham Ashley: Military Policeman
Alistair Meldrum: German Soldier

On the shoreline near Saint-Nazaire in France, two German officers drag the washed up body of a young Navy officer suffering from exposure whom, we learn later, is called Lieutenant Richard Player. They drive him to an hospital in Ornais. Since his papers were destroyed, the Germans suspect him of being a spy who's ship sank. The guard inquires incessantly to the doctor about the victim's identity but the latter cannot comply. Lt. Player wakes up and manages to get out of his locked room. Stealing civilian clothes, papers, and money he heads for freedom. He embarks on a train and when it comes to a stop near a coastal village, he jumps off. Strolling in the marina he tries to steal a boat but is caught red handed by the military police and is handed over to the Gestapo in Paris.

Mistaking him for private Haydn, whose papers he stole, the Gestapo officers suspect Dick more and more of being a spy, especially since he speaks perfect German. They question him about the ship he served on to which he replies that he served on a su#arine. Adopting the good cop-bad cop routine, they swap Lt. Player back and forth in order to obtain strategic information. The only fact Dick concedes, other than his name, rank and number, is that his father worked in Germany as a diplomatic Consul which is how he learnt German. Desperate to prove his identity, Lieutenant Player suggests they contact Paul von Eissinger, who used to work with his father, to corroborate his claims. They comply and he is sent to Berlin.

When Richard arrives in Berlin, Paul talks much (as if fearing hidden microphones) and insists that Dick be clothed and cleaned before they speak. Puzzled, Dick demands to know why he was brought here but his companion insists on socialising instead. Paul notifies the Navy officer that the 'SS' are interested in his collaboration in the forthcoming 'corps': an international group working alongside the Nazis. Dick categorically refuses which von Eissinger expected.

Over dinner in a restaurant's private room, Paul exposes his political assessment that peace can only be attained by the creation of a powerful international alliance led by Germany and capable of neutralising the major obstacle seen in Britain. This way we learn that although Paul (like many Germans) despises Nazis, he favours a pro-Germany European leadership. Soliciting Dick's help, he offers freedom and power by making him an officer in the alliance to be. Once again, the offer is met with refusal.

In a final attempt to recruit Lt. Player's help, von Eissinger suggests another way of pleasing both British and German people by bringing the war to an end and disposing of the Nazis. As he explains, Dick might be able to convince influential British politicians of the advantages of Britain conceding the war to Germany; therefore, attaining peace in a united Europe led by a Germany free of the Nazis. Again, Dick refuses to play such a role in this scheme and goes with a bit of blackmail of his own: he asks Paul to use his contacts and help him escape by threatening to report him. Paul makes him realise that he has a slight advantage over Dick since his word will always win over the other man's.

Having failed to recruit the British Lieutenant, Paul hands him back to the German authorities who send him to a large and grim prisoner camp. There, he is processed through the system and lead inside his quarters where he meets other British prisoners: Capt. Pat Grant, Flt. Lt. Simon Carter, Capt. Tim Downing, and Capt. George Brent. They are still wondering why they were brought to Colditz when a fellow prisoner, a Polish officer forcing the lock, gives them hope. Escape may be possible after all!

# 4: Welcome to Colditz (w: N.J. Crisp d: Michael Ferguson)

Guest starring

Alec Wallis: Corporal Baker
James Taylor: Polish Officer
Grahame Mallard: Leutnant Lehr
Martin Howells: Erich
Derek Ware: Gestapo man
Joe Santo: 1st N.C.O.
Stanley Price: 2nd N.C.O.

The episode opens with Flt. Lt. Phil Carrington, in worn out clothes, seemingly trying to escape in the German forest. He doesn't get very far as he is soon spotted by a German patrol ready to shoot him. However, they are recalled at the last moment by a Gestapo officer who is very happy to inform the captured man that his interrogation can now be resumed.

Meanwhile at Colditz, a truck enters the yard escorting Lt. Col. Preston and his bedman, Cpl. Baker. The new commanding officer's rigid attitude is not appreciated by the British troop. Leutenant Lehr officially welcomes the Colonel to Colditz, and while waiting to be received by the Kommandant, Col. Preston observes a poor escape attempt lead by Simon who jumps in the departing truck. The escape fails and, as his punishment, Simon learns that he will have to spend 30 days in solitary before he is shown to his diminish quarters. Thirty days is a long time, and even though Simon tries to keep fit, both physically and emotionally, he slowly begins to slip into depression.

Before being introduced to the new British C.O., the Kommandant and his son, Erich, are toasting the latter's commission. The scene presents the German's humanity as even they fear for their children's well being in the midst of the war. As Erich exits, Lt. Col. Preston is shown inside the Kommandant's quarters. Both men agree that Carter's escape attempt was "stupid and pointless." In the course of their conversation, we learn of the German attacks over England, concentrating on London (which sets the action around September 10, 1940).

About the matter of escape Lt.Col. Preston gives his word that he won't encourage pointless and stupid escape attempts by "hot heads" in order to coax the Kommandant into giving some slack for the prisoners. He even agrees to abandon all liaisons with the Polish POWs in exchange for the much overdue Red Cross parcels' arrival before Christmas.

As it is the custom, the new British commanding officer meets with his men, except for Simon whom he promises to see in the bunker the following day. Noticing that the discipline is somewhat lax, he insists on the designation of an Officer of the Day and the posting of a daily routine. During the inspection, the officers learn that their C.O. was not regular army, that he was captured at Dunkirk while on his way to a conference, and that he never even attempted to escape. He inquires about the reserve soldiers' specialities in order to propose that the officers set up classes to help pass the time. This last suggestion is met with dubious scorn and most British officers think the Col. is sucking up to the Germans. In answer, the Col. reminds them that they are failed escapers who should know what their places are.

Claiming support to the Geneva Convention, Preston asks the Kommandant to see Simon Carter despite the fact that solitary prisoners are not allowed to see anyone. His request is granted in good faith. During the meeting with the Colonel, Carter admits how much he misses his wife which is the reason why he tried to escape. The Col. makes him realise that a well planned and well timed escape is more likely to succeed than futile spontaneous attempts that keep Germans on alert.

A month later, Simon's confinement comes to an end which coincides with the distribution of the newly arrived Red Cross parcels. The British officers unpack eagerly until the Colonel orders them to inventory and conserve the resources for later use. While they reluctantly obey, they witness the arrival of Phil Carrington, obviously beaten and disoriented from his time at the hands of the Gestapo.

The following night, P.O. Muir and a Polish officer decide to go against the new segregation policy established, and organise another futile escape attempt by hiding the latter inside the British quarters. When the said Polish officer is discovered missing, the Germans order the search of the entire castle. Recalling their agreement based on good faith, the Kommandant orders that the British quarters be exempted from the search. However, since the Germans are unable to locate the missing prisoner, Lt. Lehr insists on searching them. When the missing prisoner is found behind the lavatory wall, the Kommandant takes this as "a direct breach of good faith" and has no other choice but to punish the culprit. To avoid further retribution to Peter, Col. Preston takes full responsibility for the disobeyed order and receives 14 days in solitary confinement for his trouble, while the British troop must endure 7 days of parade. Again, the Colonel reminds the men that they are "failed escapers who'll go on failing as long as they behave like boyscouts in a summer camp." They must remember that they are 400 miles from the Swiss border; therefore, every escape needs to be carefully planned and disciplined. In the light of the latest developments, Col. Preston agrees to re-instate the liaison policy between the Polish and the British prisoners.

# 5: Maximum Security (w: John Kruse d: Viktors Ritelis)

Guest Starring:

Michael Gwynn: Standartenführer Hessler
Michael Ought: Major Wilhelm Shaeffer
Peter Hager: General Schaetzel
Peter Miles: Sturmbannfürher Schmelling
Howard Rawlinson: SS Adjudant
Neville Hughes: Hauptmann Leitz
Roy Pattison: Unterfeldwebel Blatau
Alan Haywood: Erhard
Grahame Mallard: Oberleutnant Lehr
Peter Thornton: Sentry
James Walsh: Sentry

In the morning, the prisoners are awoken rather rudely by a German NCO. Going through their routine, Pat discusses with Dick about the tunnel he is in the process of digging during the night. Both men agree that they are going to need some tools to carry the plan through, tools that are provided in the form of a hook which Dick has smuggled in the morning coffee. During the morning news, there is talk that London is still being bombarded.

Colditz' security chief Anton Lehr, who has been called on the North African front, has to be replaced by Capt. Franz Ulmann, whose arrival makes the senior staff dubious as to what the conference will really be about. This doubt is reinforced when the Kommandant learns of the conference taking place in three days time instead of ten as it was originally planned.

Unfortunately for the prisoners, the new security officer is far more efficient than his predecessor, which urges the British to accelerate their work, even though it is not enough to stop them from carrying out their plan. Every security detail is overlooked and double-checked: the patrols are more strict and better armed, every possible escape-way is inspected, etc. Late at night, Ulmann is even seen working on Colditz' security maps. Another aspect of security that may suggest to the importance of the conference is the concern showed by Hauptmann Ulmann toward the Kommandant's second in command--and friend--Major Wilhelm Shaeffer. The latter is a disillusioned officer who talks too much when under the influence of alcohol, and to avoid an embarrassing situation that will discredit his competence during the upcoming meeting, the security officer suggests that Major Shaeffer be restricted to the infirmary to which the Major eventually agrees. Hours before the meeting, what was suspected by the Kommandant is confirmed by Ulmann: the Nazis have an interest in Colditz since two SS representatives will attend the conference.

Knowing that something of importance is going on, the British prisoners organise a plan to eavesdrop on the reunion. Pat and Dick plan on crawling through the sewer and up to the attic over the mess where the conference will take place. A cockroach race over the lid provides both men with a suitable diversion.

Dinner goes rather smoothly but eyes are scrutinising Colditz' security and command. The conference takes suddenly a dramatic tone when the Kommandant learns that Colditz role is about to change. The Nazis intend to imprison political hostages at the castle and that is why Colditz' security is being reappraised. The SS would be more than happy to lay their hands on the castle; a prospect that pleases neither the prisoners nor the German senior staff.

Claiming that Colditz cannot change his role without changing the structure, the Nazis wish to take over and impose their schemes as soon as possible. Ulmann, quite prepared despite short notice and withheld information, presents his own security proposal on which he has worked all three days. The new security plans are welcomed enthusiastically, especially by the Kommandant who had been oblivious to the Nazis' plot.

The fact that the Wehrmacht is still ruling over Colditz is welcomed by the British prisoners; however, the new security also means a greater difficulty for future escapes. Colonel Preston decides that from now on they will have to pull every professional resources they have, focus these resources on every escape attempts, and bring the Poles and other nationalities along with them. To this end, it is agreed that from now on Pat Grant will act as the British escape officer.

# 6: The Spirit of Freedom (w: Marc Brandel d: Peter Cregeen)

Guest Starring:

Peter Barkworth: Brauner
Denis Waterman: Richtman
Jonathan Lynn: Bergman
Peter Whittaker: Doctor
Ronald Gough: Chess player
Cy Town: Chess player
Richard Kerley: German Sergeant
Hal Jeayes: German Sergeant
Desmond Jones: German Sentry

Simon and Dick are working over a map they are drawing for their escape plan. They intend to escape to sea from St-Tropez, and from there to reach the Mediterranean. Flt. Lt. Phil Carrington, an American journalist who enrolled in the RAF to observe the fighting, enters the quarters after a long stretch of solitary confinement. He is introduced to the British officers and to Pat who identifies himself as the escape officer. Seeing an opportunity to get out of this prison, Phil inquires about the delays involved in su#itting a new plan, and he is very unhappy to learn that the plan would only be considered in two months time.

Later in the yard, when Simon and Dick are working on an hand-made sextant by taking measurements from the sun, the results are compromised by Phil's interference, which draws Simon's anger and resentment. From then on, Phil's behaviour, political views, and off-hand comments about Britain are regarded suspiciously by the British officers who suspect the American of being a mole. The animosity between both Flight Lieutenants escalates when Phil assaults Simon. Consequently, Simon ends up with 7 days solitary confinement, while Phil looks forward to 15 days of the same treatment. He claims that such time alone will allow him to finish writing his book about the role of Germany in the war. His book, says Carrington, would promote Germany's point of view in America, therefore pleasing Germany's Minister of Propaganda. A decision that gives another reason to arouse suspicion about Flt. Lt. Carrington.

The tension reaches a climax when the British officers learn that Gestapo representatives have come to meet with Phil Carrington. The general feeling among the British troop is best expressed by Cpt. George Brent when he adds to the German officer who counted the troop: "Eleven of us, one of yours, that makes twelve." The Gestapo officers, enthusiast about Carrington's work, eagerly encourage him to finish his book. Eventually, his manuscript is completed and sent to be proof-read by the Censor bureau.

When time comes for the two British officers to escape, Dick is the first to go hiding in the court yard's punching bag until night fall. The Germans sound the alarm, looking for Lt. Carrington who is believed to be the missing officer. They find him, along with the identity of the real escaper. Consequently, Simon's escape is aborted when the Germans find Dick's way out. A short while later, Lt. Player is recaptured and brought back to the camp, looking forward to a couple of months of solitary confinement. Sabotage is seriously considered as an explanation for the escape failure. Carrington is immediately suspected and a court martial ensues, presided by Cpt. Downing, Cpt. Brent and P.O. Muir.

The decisive night, Simon is the most convinced of Carrington's guilt and every circumstantial evidence points toward his guilt. A biased jury declares the American guilty and only Ulmann's arrival saves the man from the wrongful beating he is receiving. The Gestapo representatives have come to meet with Carrington again. This time, however, a sentence found in Phil's letter addressed to his editor made the Gestapo's suspicious of the book's content: "The truth to what I am trying to say, particularly in chapter four, lies in the fact that the multiple always adds up to the original factor as they taught us in High school ." In fact, it was discovered that Phil was trying to smuggle a coded message by which every ninth letter found in chapter four carried information detailing Germany's intention to invade Russia. Because he refuses to divulge his sources, Phil is severely beaten before being sent to the bunker along with Lt. Player.

# 7: Lord, Didn't It Rain? (w: Arden Winch d: Michael Ferguson)

Guest starring:

Neil Stacy: Capt. Edward Bentinct-Boyle
Nigel Stevens: Lt. Rodney Hughes
Gillian Brown: Sophie
Ray Smith: Hans Hugenberg
Jack Le White: Cafe Owner
Leo Britt: Lutz
Michael Wisher: Consulate official
Maria O'Brien: Receptionist
Stanley Price: German Sergeant
Alan Downer: French Sergeant
Peter Sproule: German Corporal
Ronald Musgrove: Guard
Ian Elliott: German Soldier

Simon is giving the finishing touch on a map when the British officers are warned about a check-up. In the frenzy, George spills paint on the map which puts the maker in a very foul mood, making him forget to lower his voice when Ulmann enters. The officers talk their way out of it and although Ulmann is obviously not duped, he knows that whatever it was won't be of any use to the British, so he lets it pass.

The incident coincides with the arrival of Cpt. Edward Bentinct-Boyle, a stereotypical image of the typical British in both his accent and his manners. In fact, he looks so much the part of the perfect Englishman--he even claims to be a Wicamist--that Lt. Player immediately suspects the man of being a stool pigeon planted by the Germans. Therefore, he suggests that the story be checked by George Brent who was also a Winchester guardsman in college. The newcomer passes the test with flying colours not only when George reassures the gang that the Captain is clean, but also when Edward goes as far as to share his doubts about George being a plant. Now the only trouble with the new prisoner is his eagerness to escape.

An escape opportunity suddenly presents itself to the British. In the courtyard, French soldiers are transferring paillasses from Colditz to their camp. Seizing the chance, Pat informs Dick that he is getting into one of those paillasses. The Lieutenant changes quickly into civilian clothes and every necessary item is provided in order to ensure the success of the escape (money, papers, etc). The operation seems to work as the truck transporting the precious cargo leaves the camp without any problem.

Once the paillasses are transported, Dick realises that he has a companion: Edward has followed him using the same way. Some German guards are sent to inspect the paillasses to make sure nothing was hidden in them. In order to give Dick a break, Edward shows himself and, as a result, he is escorted back to Colditz where he manages to pass on the information that Lt. Player has succeeded in escaping. The news is cause for celebration between Simon, Pat and George.

Far from celebrating his freedom, Dick is caught by the incredibly bad weather of cold, *pouring* rain and he has no other choice but to stop in a small cafe in order to warm up a little. As luck would have it, a Nazi officer on leave sits with him all through his meal. The conversation, seemingly casual enough, is bordering on an interrogation. To avoid recognition, Dick manages to come up with a story about his being on leave and planning to meet with some girl in France. About his lack of uniform, Lt. Player answers that he has had no choice but to burn it. Even though there doesn't seem to be any immediate danger, Dick's nervousness increases so he quickly puts on his soaked coat and disappears into the cold, damp night.

On his way, he is lucky enough to be stopped by a passing car and he is asked for his papers. Believing that Dick is a German soldier, the driver kindly offers to drive him. That is when Dick realises that his benefactor is a German General. Lt. Player's condition worsens by the minute and a bad cold quickly turns into pneumonia. He can hardly stay awake during the conversation which, this time, is less casual. The General is obviously curious about Dick's whereabouts. The latter modifies his earlier story using information gathered during his conversation with the Nazi officer in the cafe. Despite his obvious weariness, Dick manages to avoid all of the traps and trick questions. Eventually satisfied, the General becomes more friendly, and he insists that Dick stops for rest in a hospital. The British officer politely refuses and he is dropped off at a one-star hotel in Vienna, where he realises that he has left all his papers and money in the car.

It is late when a very ill Dick meets Sophie, a young prostitute lurking about the hotel. Believing that he is a sick German deserter, the girl offers him a place to stay for a while. The place is a small, modest, leaky-roofed room sporting a small bed and a table. She urges Dick to catch some sleep and she manages to bring him food the following morning. The night's sleep and the breakfast don't bring the fever down and the poor man is still shivering and coughing. Overwhelmed by the girl's concern and reluctant to risk her life, he admits that he is not a deserter but a British prisoner who escaped.

The rain is pouring again and Dick's health is at its worst. Moreover, the girl throws him out in the rain in order for her to entertain a client in the room. Soaking wet, burning up, coughing his lungs out, and devoid of money, Dick manages to reach the American consulate in Vienna where he asks to see the consul. Lt. Player explains that he is a British prisoner of war and implores the consul to lend him fifty marks. The American listens to the story but categorically refuses to lend the money, a gesture that would compromise the neutral position of the United States. Moreover, the consul suspects Dick to either be an agent provocateur or a spy and ignores the British officer's plea for help, sending him on his way. Scared for his own personal position, the American rationalises that he is not willing to take such a risk without any valid proof supporting Dick's claims. To which his receptionist coldly replies: "He was dying, what more proof do you want?"

Consequently, Dick is recaptured and brought back to Colditz where he can at least receive medical attention. Looking around at the grey castle, a mixture of relief and bitterness colours Dick's voice as he mutters to himself: "Welcome home..."

# 8: The Traitor (w: John Brason d: Viktors Ritelis)

Guest Starring

Patrick Troughton: Padre
Anthony Jacobs: General Hawicz
Vernon Morris: Soltizyk
Robert Oleksowicz: Interpreter
Jan Konrad: Defence Counsel
Milos Kirek: Prosecutor
Donald Tandy: Senior French Officer
Michael Harding: Senior Dutch Officer
Richard Eden: Pole
Thomas Karol: Pole
Alexei Jawdokimov: Pole

In the British quarters at night, Simon and Phil, along with two polish officers, are preparing an escape over the roofs of Colditz. Once they reach their destination, they cautiously proceed to climb down one of their hand-made ropes until Phil is greeted by Ulmann and other German guards. The Germans had obviously been waiting for the prisoners, which suggests that they actually knew the details of the attempt. However, Carrington succeeds in warning off Simon and the others so they manage to get back to their respective quarters, thus avoiding to spend time in the cooler.

Following the night's events, a conversation between Pat and Col. Preston informs us that a total of four escape attempts had failed under similar circumstances. The Colonel suspects a breech of security and he calls a meeting between all the senior commanding officers. During this meeting, Simon reports that while trying to find out what had happened to Flt. Lt. Carrington, Hauptmann Ulmann had claimed that the Germans received help to surprise the escape which he referred to as being a demonstration of ‘German efficiency'. Preston tries to convince the other senior officers to consider the possibility that one of them might be housing an informer among their officers. To find out the identity of such a stool pigeon, the British senior officer designates Pat and Simon in charge of co-ordinating and carrying out their own inquiry.

To carry out the task, Capt. Grant enrols the British Catholic priest's assistance and they both proceed to interrogate the first witnesses. One of which is George who seems less than happy to co-operate. In the meantime, Simon is efficiently questioning Peter on his whereabouts the night of the failed escape. As it turns out, no British officer would have had the opportunity to leak the information.

While the British inquiry results in accounting for everybody's whereabouts, the Polish find out that the traitor belongs to their ranks. General Hawicz assures the British Colonel that the traitor will be court martialed. Fearing the outcome of such proceedings, Col. Preston insists that observers from every nationalities--Pat representing the British--be permitted to attend the Court Martial.

Hearing the junior officer's defence, Pat Grant learns that the Gestapo has blackmailed Soltizyk by threatening to arrest and torture his wife and child in order to force him to commit treason. Despite the attenuating circumstances, the jury finds the soldier guilty and sentences him to death by hanging at midnight the following night. The verdict, judged much too severe, is not accepted by the Lieutenant-Colonel. To save the poor man's life, Preston begs the Polish General to reconsider the sentence, but the latter refuses claiming that the decision is now an internal Polish business.

Grasping at every straw to make the Polish officer reconsider, Col. Preston informs the padre about the sentence. The priest then admits that he knew about the identity of the traitor through confession but that he was bound to secrecy by the sanctity of his vows. Angered by the implications of this admission but needing the man's influence to try and stop the hanging, the Colonel orders the padre to appeal to the Polish General as a man of the Church. The appeal fails: they will carry out the sentence since it is a matter of Polish honour. However, out of respect for what he represents, the padre obtains the privilege to accompany the Pole in the last hour of his life.

Since all else failed, the British senior officer decides to breach the code of silence by directly petitioning the Kommandant to intervene on behalf of the man's life. The British instigate a fire in their quarters in order to attract Ulmann. By doing so, Col. Preston is able to request a meeting with the German senior officer despite the very late hour. The Kommandant is appalled by the idea that a court martial was covertly held within Colditz. Doing the right thing, The Kommandant orders the guards to stop the hanging. Slowed down by the barred door, the Germans would have been too late if not aided by the efforts of the padre who was the one to physically stop the hanging.

To Preston's inquiry about the Polish officer's fate following the events, the Kommandant answers that he will propose to transfer Soltizyk in a hospital after his bout in solitary confinement in order to avoid further threats on his life. Furthermore, he orders an emergency appel where four British officers are to be arrested and sentenced to seven days solitary confinement. For his involvement in the disturbance in the British quarters, Lt.Col. Preston is also confined to the bunker for 7 days without privileges. When Ulmann asks the Kommandant about his orders concerning the Polish court martial, the latter replies: "There has been no Polish court martial."

# 9: Bribery and Corruption (w: N.J. Crisp d: Peter Cregeen)

We will come back to that one because the channel skipped over this episode.

# 10: Tweedledum (w: John Brason d: Michael Ferguson)

Guest Starring

Michael Bryant: WCmdr. Marsh
Bernard Kay: Hartwig
John Herrington: Stabsarzt
Geoffrey Palmer: Doc
Jeremy Higgins: Lt. Vaugirard
Stuart Fell: Lt. Beausire
Philip Howard: Swiss official
Peter Jolley: British prisoner
Nigel Stevens: British prisoner
David Pelton: Guard
Petar Vidovic: Guard

The British medical officer, assisted by Wing Commander George Marsh, is attending to a French prisoner in the infirmary. They are commenting on the poor condition in which a failed escapee was brought back to Colditz. George suggests that escapes would be less painful and less dangerous if the protecting powers were to repatriate the prisoners. Though a good theory, the doctor points out that it would be impossible for a man to fake a physical injury serious enough to ensure repatriation. However, what the Wing Commander was proposing was to use his knowledge of mentally ill patients' behaviour to fake insanity. When they propose the plan to Lt.Col. Preston, Pat, and Simon, the doctor acknowledges that the plan might just work but that it would be extremely difficult to carry out. George is ready to take the challenge of faking schizophrenia and it is agreed that, for obvious security reasons, anybody else would have to be excluded from the plan. Preston reminds the Wing Commander of the dangers involved before George begins his journey into an other world...

Sporting a blank stare and many irritating manias, such as paranoid symptoms, frequent lapses into a semi-catatonic state, WCmdr Marsh puzzles both his fellow prisoners and the Germans who try to cure him by confining him to the bunker. George--referred to by the British prisoners as Tweedledum--is so convincing that even Simon doesn't recognise the former officer. Hauptmann Ulmann, however, is not easily fooled and in order to corroborate both British and German doctors' diagnosis, he transfers Corporal Hartwig, whose brother is schizophrenic, from the paymaster's office with orders to watch George very closely. The guard's watch is less than compassionate since he enjoys abusing and humiliating George.

In the meantime, WCmdr Marsh's behaviour--especially his playing the same record day in and day out and compromising the new tunnel in the making by his actions--is getting on the rest of the officers' nerves. So while George flies his toy planes and talks to himself under the constant observation of Cpl. Hartwig, everybody grows more convinced that George's illness is genuine; however, none of this succeeds in convincing the Kommandant to agree to the Wing Commander's repatriation.

When asked by Ulmann to make a judgement based on his brother's mental condition, the guard admits that after 3½ months of observation he is unsure regarding the WCmdr's claims to insanity although his behaviour does resemble his brother's. "I just don't know..." he admits to the security officer.

One incident expedites the matter when the prisoners, all dressed up in the courtyard awaiting very important visit from Berlin, are joined by WCmdr March (wearing a paper hat and carrying a staff) bringing in a very official fashion a letter to the German General. The General's puzzlement increases when George starts to weep as a stream of urine expands on his trousers. Reluctantly but pressed by the General, the Kommandant signs the authorisation for the Swiss officials to examine WCmdr Marsh. In the meantime, the patient is to be sent to a civilian German hospital in Klauswitz for a complete mental evaluation.

Upon Tweedledum's return, a Frenchman succeeds in escaping by athletically jumping over the exercise yard's fence much to the prisoners' enthusiasm. However, this event buries WCmdr Marsh deeper in a psychosis that is no longer entirely faked. Unable to recognise any sane clues the doctor begins to fear that George is really gravely ill, while Simon still wants to believe that George is playing a role.

One winter morning, Hartwig announces to the British officers that Red Cross parcels have arrived at the camp and brings a small token of friendship to Tweedledum: a miniature airplane. This gesture confirms George success in making the Germans believe his mental psychosis and it is decided that representatives from the Swiss Red Cross will repatriate him in two months time. Unfortunately, it is too late for WCmdr George Marsh and it is as a broken man that he is escorted out of Colditz by his new-found friend Cpl. Hartwig.

Four weeks later, Col. Preston receives a letter from George Marsh's wife thanking the British for helping her husband through his imprisonment and informing them that George is now committed to a mental home with no hope of improvement. Realising the sad truth, the Col. absolutely forbids anymore escapes using this dangerous method.

# 11: Court Martial (w: Marc Brandel d: William Slater)

Guest Starring

Kenneth Griffith: Doctor Starb
Ralph Michael: Bauman
Geoffery Toone: President of the Court
Harry Brookes, Jnr.: Prosecutor
Julian Harington: Medical orderly

Simon is eager to receive a very much expected parcel from his wife when Capt. Downing warns that the German officers are searching extensively the British quarters. The officers take everything out of site, they even camouflage some of it on their person. What they didn't expect was the personal search they had to submit themselves to in the courtyard. Phil informs Simon that he is carrying a passport, so the latter offers his fellow officer to smuggle the compromising item out of the search. Flt. Lt. Carter tries to pass the passport to George who is on the other side of the fence but the other man loses his nerves and Simon is discovered with the valuable document which grants him a few weeks in solitary confinement. He is soon visited by the new German doctor who's attitude matches Hitler's in many ways. His medical examination reveals that Simon suffers from "listlessness".

In the meantime, the British prisoners discuss the possibility of an escape toward an American Embassy in Berlin. Finding that it would be easier to reach the embassy than to actually cross the border, they begin to elaborate a plan for Phil to escape via this opportunity.

During that time the doctor tries to implant a very rigid discipline among the ranks by insisting that all officers salute him at all time. Meanwhile the arrival of two garbage collectors in the yard provides Grant with a potential diversion for the escape they are planning: he asks George to draw one of them to serve as model for Phil's disguise. Indeed, Flt. Lt. Carrington is to trade places with that collector, pass the guards at the gate, and drive out with the other farm worker until he is out of range. On the said day, everybody is at his post, waiting for the swap, but at the last moment George fails to salute the doctor, a mistake that compromises the entire attempt. However, the prisoners cheer themselves by looking forward to the following week, but they learn that the doctor has taken the garbage cans away for sanitary reasons and they must abandon this plan.

The doctor is very sufficient with himself and although he does not have a military commission, he admits "that a doctor pretending to be a soldier like [him] has to be twice the soldier". He takes upon himself to reshape the British officers to his ideals while the Kommandant tries to remind him that respect cannot be imposed by strict discipline but he his forced—against his will—to support his major.

When Simon gets out of the bunker, he is updated on the new life with the medical officer and of how irritating the man can be. During a conversation with Phil, Flt. Lt. Carter learns that the German doctor threatens to court martial anybody who fails to salute him. Realising that they would have to take any offender by train to Leipzig in order to be court martialed, the two RAF officers decide to voluntarily omit saluting the man. But as luck would have it, he overlooks the offence. When Peter informs Simon that his parcel has finally arrived, Simon crosses the yard hurriedly to the parcel office and omits—involuntarily this time—to salute the passing doctor who immediately puts the offender under arrest. Seizing the opportunity for a potential escape, Pat informs Col. Preston about their plan to send Phil Carrington to the American Embassy and that the Court Martial would be a good way to get out of the castle. That is why the Lt. Col. insists that a second officer, acting as a character witness, be sent along with Flt. Lt. Simon Carter.

Unfortunately, any chance of escaping in the train is put on hold when both men are manacled together to prevent such an occurrence. That leaves only the actual trial to try and make a move. Upon their arrival the defence counsel takes Carrington apart to discuss the line of defence he has prepared. However, the prosecution insists on the gravity of Flt. Lt. Carter's gesture, saying that a deliberate failure to salute a superior officer signifies a breach of the German military code, thus making it mutiny. For that crime during war time is very grave, the prosecution demands the capital punishment. This demand takes everybody by surprise—especially Simon—and Phil is asked to testify on Flt. Lt. Carter's behalf. Carrington appeals to the President of the Tribunal and the two officers (two former soldiers) to consider Carter's quality as a combatant. Since the doctor who pressed charges is not a real soldier, Phil hopes that the presiding jury will judge Simon by their own code of honour as war veterans. The jury takes the case under consideration for the next few days.

Realising that Phil might not find a chance to escape, Simon decides to cause a commotion by faking fainting on his way out of the court room. The American understands the gesture and takes the opportunity to change clothes in the men's room and to exit the building while everyone is hovering over Simon's unconscious form.

Back at Colditz, the Kommandant fears the worse about the upcoming sentence, and for his own safety, transfers the medical officer to another post. He then informs the Colonel that he his using all of his influence to appeal on Simon's behalf. Everyone is concerned, especially the prisoners who await anxiously the verdict while Simon's parcel is conveyed to him as if it were a last request. He is unpacking it religiously when he is joined by Phil who has been recaptured. He is making sure that the parcel will be sent back to his wife when the ruling finally comes.

The Kommandant himself comes to read the verdict to Simon. He is found guilty of failure to salute a superior officer and he is cautioned that any further breach of German military discipline will be severely punished. After final instructions to escort Flt. Lt. Carter back to the British quarters, the German senior officer departs, leaving behind a very much relived Simon to pack his things. Just before he leaves, Phil tells him that "maybe [they]'ll be lucky the next time." Simon's only reply is a very eloquent silence.

# 12: Murder? (w: Ian Kennedy Martin d: Peter Cregeen)

# 13: The Way Out (w: Bryan Forbes d: Michael Ferguson)

# 14: Gone Away (part I) (w: John Brason d: William Slater)

# 15: Gone Away (part II) (w: John Brason d: Peter Cregeen)

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Disclaimer: Colditz, the castle, the characters and their adventures were devised by Brian Degas and Gerard Glaister and co-produced by the BBC and Universal ©1972, ©1974. On the other hand, this episode guide was entirely created by Chantal and Isabelle Bourbon ©1998 - 2003. All rights reserved. This means that if you do something illegal with this guide, we shall catch you and put you away in a very damp, dark and un-escapable castle for a long, long time! Last but not least, our gratefulness goes to George Fergus and Louise Mijatovic for providing us with all Colditz photographs found within these pages.

Copyright © 1998 - 2003 Chantal and Isabelle Bourbon.
Page created 28 January 1998. Last updated 7 July 2003 at 10:52 PM.

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