Blood of a Poet Doctors

"With every last word taken

"By the chaos of ravaging time

"I'll have no mind to matter

"But the heart will keep what's mine."

What brought that on?

George read it to me the night before...

You'll do right by him. I know you will.

If they want me to say what a great chap he is, yes...

But?

The most helpful thing I could do would be to stay away.

Why would you say that?

Because courts don't bring out the best in me.

Right, let's go for lunch when this is all over - it's my treat, OK?

You wonderful woman...

Don't get excited, it's only The Icon.

See you.

I know this lay-by where you can get a 99oz cheeseburger,

they call it the "widow maker".

Morning, ladies...

Morning. So much grease. But ooh, what a way to go...

Uh! Chips!

Oh, my God! Dr Haskey?!

Chill out, we're just having a joke!

This is a place of work!

Where do you want these?

Files?

Earplugs!

Ugh. I did not even realise I still had these in.

Students still keeping you awake?

I did not sleep a wink last night, even with the earplugs.

But it did give me the chance to work on the patient survey forms.

After the previous debacle, I thought it prudent

that I design them myself.

Just go easy, OK...

-I think work is the best...

-SHE YAWNS

Excuse me. The best tonic.

Just don't burn out. If you need any help...

Thank you, although you could keep an eye on your friend, Dr Haskey.

Papers are full of the trial. Heston get off all right...?

Yeah, just about.

Oh, on a slightly cheerier note, I had a new mum in the other day,

she was singing your praises. Britney Dawson...

Yeah - she's going to make a good mum...

She was saying how much you put her at ease.

That's nice to hear. Thank you, Daniel.

Dr Carter, you've known the defendant,

George Whitbeck, for 22 years, is that right?

Yes, it is.

And as both his GP and a close personal friend,

would you agree that you are in a very strong position to act

as a character witness for him?

Yes, I would.

As you're aware, an Expert Medical Panel has deemed Mr Whitbeck fit

to stand trial, despite his dementia.

But that does not rule out the possibility that Mr Whitbeck

was suffering an "abnormality of mind"

at the time of Marcus Holt's killing.

Whilst it is an Expert Psychiatrist's role to

consider that possibility, as his GP, would you outline

for the jury how Mr Whitbeck's condition became known to you.

Yes. George came to me about a year ago,

worrying about short-term memory loss

and occasional bouts of confusion.

I referred him to a specialist who diagnosed

early stage vascular dementia.

And how would you assess his symptoms at that time?

They seemed fairly mild.

So as far as you're aware,

did Mr Whitbeck continue to see a specialist after the diagnosis?

No, he didn't.

Do you know why not?

Um... Well, I tried to persuade him...

I think he just wanted to get on with the rest of his life.

So, from your knowledge of the defendant,

could he have been in denial about the severity of his dementia?

My Lord, is this character testimony?

It is relevant context, My Lord.

Go on, Dr Carter...

Yes... He could. It's a frightening disease.

And did Mr Whitbeck give any indication that he was

frightened for the future?

Not for himself, no.

The deceptively simple format is the result of hours of research.

Excuse me, can't these things be downloaded from the internet?

I have tailored these questions so they fit in with our practice!

Fabulous. Good work.

Now - any more thoughts on this house move?

Can we just stick with the forms, just for one moment...

I think you should go open plan and modern -

something with a vast kitchen for all your baking,

plenty of room to entertain and relax...

I have no need for material distractions...

Exactly! Get rid of the clutter! Just classic, modern, clean lines...

How about something like this?

Nice.

Oh, yes, perhaps it's a little bit too tryhard.

If he likes it.

-I see!

-Ah! Your thoughts on this one.

There is not going to be a house move!

Now, do I have your permission to circulate the forms?

Can't see it'll do any harm.

It was at a ghastly private view.

We spent the evening discussing good wine and bad art.

Years later, we're still at it...

And over the course of your friendship,

how well would you say you really got to know the defendant?

I'd say he's one of the most honest,

brave and generous people

that I know.

So to clarify for the jury, the accused,

who has sworn under oath that he has

no recollection of stabbing Marcus Holt,

is an honest man?

Yes.

And that same man who claims that he must have mistaken Marcus

for an intruder and attacked him to protect his wife, is a brave man?

My Lord.

Refrain from comment.

My Lord.

You also mentioned generosity.

Can you define this generosity for the jury, please, Dr Carter?

One time he was running late for a reading he was commissioned to do

at a diplomats' house and I was giving him a lift.

And a student turns up, convinced that she's unable to do the course.

But an hour later, she leaves, ready to change the world,

and George misses his supper.

The young poet Marcus Holt, did Mr Whitbeck treat HIM like family?

Well, I never met him,

but I understand he took him in when he was down on his luck.

Did he ever tell you why?

He said he was a wild talent that needed harnessing

and he reminded him of his younger self.

Would you consider Mr Whitbeck to be a trusting man?

'He loves you, Heston, we both do,'

but it's way past our bedtime.

Don't keep him up too long.

-Goodnight.

-Goodnight.

You better not let your students know

she has you tucked up in bed by ten.

She's having an affair - with Marcus.

What?

Are you sure?

HE LAUGHS

Dementia, playing tricks on me?

She's devoted to you.

She thinks she's protecting me, but I know her too well.

I can't give her what she needs any more.

We swore ours would never be a marriage of comfort and convenience...

But what if you're wrong... Have you actually spoken to her?

I'll not risk losing her by forcing her to choose.

So long as he doesn't hurt her...

'Please try to answer the question,'

Dr Carter. Would you say that Mr Whitbeck is a trusting man?

Yes, he was...

And did you notice any changes in the personality

of this generous and trusting man after his diagnosis?

No, he was the same George - for the most part.

"For the most part"?

Well... You'd expect the dementia to have an effect, it's bound to.

What effect, in your opinion as his friend, did it have?

My Lord.

Occasional mood swings...

Which you put down to the dementia?

Well, it's not just the disease,

but worrying about the effect it has on loved ones -

it's bound to put a strain on any relationship.

Even the most solid?

Yes, he...

didn't want to be a burden on Celia

and he was worried about what was coming later on.

Later on?

He knew the dementia was getting worse.

Did Mr Whitbeck feel a strong sense of responsibility towards his wife?

'I was an idiot!

'Thinking he loved her.'

That he'd take care of her when I was gone.

But he's playing her...

He thinks he can play me, too - offering to edit my poetry,

insinuating...

..that I'm losing my judgment!

He comes into my study when I'm not there, and he moves boxes,

getting me thinking I'm really crazy,

then he's going to take over my life,

my career...

George... Do you have any proof of this?

Oh... This is what he wants.

Everyone doubting me!

Now even you.

Why don't you just ask him to leave?

And risk her following him?

Well, I can't believe that.

Help me, Heston.

You've got connections.

God knows what scams he's pulled off in the past.

Maybe the police...?

..know something about him, something I could use,

get rid of him without any fuss...

George...

This isn't like you.

Why don't I have a...discreet word?

And tell her I knew and done nothing?

No, not a word to Celia or anyone!

It's my duty as a friend and a doctor,

to act in your best interest...

And it's your obligation to keep my confidence.

Your word, Heston,

not a soul.

'Dr Carter,'

Dr Carter, I asked if Mr Whitbeck felt a strong sense

of responsibility towards his wife?

I believe he'd sacrifice everything for her...

GENTLE KNOCK Yeah.

Mrs Cahill, third trimester.

Her checks flagged up possible pre-eclampsia.

So I've referred her to the antenatal ward...

OK.

Er... I wanted to ask you about Britney.

She was fit as a flea when she came for her baby's six-week check

and well, I couldn't find anything on her notes...

Don't worry. She popped in to see me at the clinic,

she wants some fillers to perk her up a bit...

Fillers - are you kidding?

Daniel, she's a first-time mum, adjusting to life with a new baby...

Who felt she deserved a little cosmetic boost.

Don't play this down! We're not talking about a manicure or

a trip to the hairdressers!

I didn't force her into anything.

She seemed to know her own mind pretty well.

OK, but you know the pressures that new mums - no, ALL mums are under

to look good. All this "yummy-mummy" business...

OK, Ruhma, look, you know these women better than anyone.

Hearing Britney talk about how fired up

and empowered you'd made her feel, how in control...

why would you want to take that away from her?

Because it's about empowering them to make the right choices.

Agreed. So let's have a sensible conversation about this,

let's try and find some common ground.

Maybe work together to try and give these women the information

that they need to make these right decisions...

-You patronising...

-KNOCK AT DOOR

Come in.

Take a seat, Mr Wilson. Thank you.

Take a seat.

Aside from being Mr Whitbeck's trusted friend,

are you aware of Mr Whitbeck's public image as a poet?

Well, I know he has a reputation for a fierce

and sometimes violent way with words, but...

Before his dementia diagnosis,

did you ever know him be physically violent?

No, no, never. He'd get stirred up about art and poetry, and politics,

but he was always in control, a gentleman...

And after the diagnosis?

'George.'

George, you need to see your consultant...

What's happening?

'Dr Carter...?'

Dr Carter...?

My Lord, may I request a short recess...?

Yes. Recess granted for half an hour.

"Which of the following best describes your reason

"for visiting the Mill Health Centre today?" Hmm...

I love all these questions, Mrs Tembe.

It is not YOUR feedback I am seeking, Ms Pitman, it is theirs...

Yeah, no, I know, I've tried. I don't know what's wrong with them.

I really enjoy a well-structured survey, myself.

Yes, well, so I can see.

I'm filling it in as if I was a patient. It's like role-play.

I mean, it's not like I haven't had a lot of experience of

all sides of the medical profession,

you know, with my cancer.

Yes. Yes, well, that IS true,

and with so much to do for the Summer Fayre,

perhaps we should put your experience to better use.

How's that?

I would be honoured if you would help to publicise

the Fayre as a cancer charity fundraiser.

Yes! Oh, yes. That is a great idea!

Ah, we're going to need flyers, posters... We could go viral.

Right, well, I...

Well, I will leave it in your capable hands.

Right. I am already seeing bright, bold colours.

Keeping it positive, upbeat...

'Help me, Heston.

'What's happening?'

'I'm not here about me.'

I'm here about George.

You do know I can't discuss anything he may have told me?

I'm losing him, Heston,

and I'm frightened.

I look at him sometimes, and he's so broken,

and I try to comfort him

and he won't let me in any more.

I mean, my life is great -

the gallery is thriving -

which makes it worse somehow.

It's... It's like I've become a stranger to him.

Dementia changes people's character -

mood swings, paranoia, delusions...

No. It's not like that. It's...

It's more a sense of absence,

like...I've lost him.

Talk to him, Heston, please.

Persuade him to get some proper help.

Well, I'll try and get him to see his consultant,

but I can't force him.

So what can I do?

George mentioned you were putting up a student,

which must be an extra burden on both of you.

Well, having Marcus around makes it easier somehow.

I mean, he brings so much life into the house.

He's even helping George with his poems.

You don't need any more complications right now.

Well, I love George, more than I could love anyone...

..and nothing and nobody is going to change that.

'Not even this wretched disease.'

-Mrs Tembe.

-Oh, tea?

No, thanks. Erm, do you know that Daniel's encouraging new mums

to have fillers?

No. No, I did not.

Do you think it's OK?

Well, I think there is too much value put on the superficial.

To see the glow of a new mother, the first time she holds her baby -

now that is a sight to behold.

In my experience, they usually end up in an exhausted,

sweaty heap, you know, once the baby comes out.

-You will know more about that than me.

-Hm.

But you're right. It's about making them feel good as they are,

not trying to live up to some impossible ideal.

But how do I get that across to Daniel?

-Well, unless it is a matter of medical misconduct...

-No...

..then I must allow Dr Granger to run his clinic as he sees fit.

SHE SIGHS

Before handing over for cross-examination,

I would like you to summarise for the jury as best you can

the George you came to know so well.

There's so much. So many great qualities,

but the one thing that stands out is his capacity to love.

About 12 years ago, I'm sure she won't mind me saying,

Celia was involved in a very serious car accident.

It wasn't clear that she'd recover.

But George stuck by her and he wouldn't leave her side.

He pulled her through, even though it nearly killed him.

And when he was diagnosed with dementia,

his first and only real concern was for her.

And I truly believe that his love for Celia

drives everything he does.

-I killed him! I killed Marcus.

-Celia, no!

I have to.

I was besotted and stupid!

And he was using me to get at George.

-SHOCKED GASPS

-Quiet in court!

He's gone.

What have I done?

Listen to me carefully.

You're going to get rid of any evidence

that you and Marcus were ever intimate.

Bedsheets, fingerprints.

-You knew?

-Of course.

Did anyone else know? Did anyone ever see you?

No. I was trying to protect you.

When I tried to end it, he...he turned nasty and cruel.

Said he was going to ruin us both.

Oh, God!

Give me the knife.

Now, MY fingerprints are on it.

Now, listen very carefully.

In a short while, I'm going to phone the police and tell them

that you tried to stop me stabbing Marcus

because I thought he was an intruder.

And when I got back to my senses, it was too late.

With no recollection of what I'd done.

No! I can't let you do that!

Well...for my sake,

if not for yours.

-I'm so sorry for dragging you through all this.

-George...

So, what happens now?

They'll interview Celia and then they'll probably go for a retrial.

I could have prevented all this.

Whatever Marcus was, he didn't deserve to die.

-You couldn't have prevented anything.

-I was a coward!

She followed her heart.

I won't condemn her for that.

And when my mind's gone...

..she'll still be here.

Right here.

KNOCK AT DOOR

Er...come in.

Um...sorry to be a pain, it's just you've put Al down on duty when it should be me.

I ain't doing it.

-Are you sure?!

-Mm.

Let me have a look at this.

Oh, dear!

It's easily done, especially with such a load on.

Maybe you should relax the survey idea.

If the patients are unhappy, they'll soon let us know.

Dr Clay, that is not very proactive.

The whole point is to gauge the patients' feelings

so that we can make changes and prevent any future problems.

Right, I, er... I have corrected the rota.

A simple plain text, that's what you need for your patients' survey.

It zaps straight to their phone...

That is very intrusive!

Thank you for your time, gentlemen.

-Better?

-Yeah.

-Mm.

-Thank you.

-Imagine loving someone so much that you'd give up everything,

even though they'd completely betrayed you.

So, you wouldn't go to jail for me, then?

Only if it was for stealing a bottle of 1787 Chateau Lafite

and I got to drink it first.

Have you noticed them?

-Noticed what?

-My wrinkles.

Ruhma, it's you I love, not your face.

That didn't come out right.

SHE CHUCKLES

SHE SIGHS

SHE YAWNS

-KNOCK AT DOOR

-Er...come in.

Mrs Tembe! We have an exciting proposal for you!

That's not how you spell summer fair, unless you're Thomas Cromwell.

All right, Dr Haskey, if you have nothing helpful to say, then please say nothing at all.

As a matter of fact, we do, don't we?

Er...yeah, we do. Al and I have been discussing how overworked you are.

I am not overworked, I am...

Yes, you are and we have the perfect technological solution

to your patient feedback problem.

All right, I will consider your proposal, but...

Mrs Tembe, it's a done deal, so I wouldn't bother considering.

Wha...?! Dr Haskey...!

SHE SIGHS

Yeah, it will feel a bit strange to start off with,

but if the numbness doesn't pass in the next few days...

Yeah, exactly. Don't be afraid to come back in, OK?

KNOCK AT DOOR

Yep, no worries. OK, bye.

A client?

-I think they're still called patients.

-Mm.

That slick charm, it's not just for paying customers, then?

OK, so if you've just come to have a dig, I'm busy.

No. Um...I thought of a way to keep my mums informed about your clinic.

-Go on.

-By explaining exactly why they should stay well away.

If you're going to preach that women should be given the facts

and should be allowed to make their own minds up...

And what are these so-called facts, then?

That to be the perfect mother, partner, lover,

they need to look like some airbrushed,

vacuum-packed supermodel?

That ageing is some sort of deformity?

OK. I live in the real world, as do the women you care for.

They know what they want.

If I don't give it to them, they'll go somewhere else.

Spoken like a true businessman, Daniel.

I am. A good one.

But that doesn't stop me being a good doctor, too.

Look...

..a woman giving birth for the first time can be a wonderful experience.

And, yeah, it can leave some of them feeling like 100 years old,

but we should be nurturing their self-esteem,

not praying on their insecurities.

What's insecure about wanting to look good?

You're always at pains to tell me how pregnancy isn't an illness!

And neither is ageing!

Do you see these frown lines?

They tell you how angry I am with you.

And if you think that we can work together on this, you can...!

SHE COUGHS

The gas was left on in Jenna's kitchen this morning.

Then when she got to campus, it looked like her brakes had been cut.

You think it's Cally!

I understand how it feels, OK?

To want to look after your sister, to want to protect her.

I ruined her life and I owe her!

Come on, Cally!

We can't go on like this.