Holiday Affair

CHATTERING VOICES

VOICES SPEAK OVER EACH OTHER

You didn't bring the baby brother you promised last year.

I'll see what I can do this year!

-Well, what now?

-Make it snow!

-Blow the whistle.

-All right!

WHISTLE BLOWS

-Could you serve me?

-In a moment.

-I'm in a hurry.

-This gentleman was first.

-I want to buy one.

I don't know he's not a potential customer.

Blow the whistle!

Sorry, son,

she has friends in high places! The train -

it's been round the world seven times.

-It's fast, economical...

-I'll take one.

Complete with all attachments.

I'm not earning my salary - skimpy as it is.

-That'll be 79.50 plus tax.

-I have it right here.

-20...

-It's all there.

-40, 60...

-Where would you like it sent?

-I'll take it now.

-We're glad to send it to get there tomorrow.

-No, thank you.

Just put it in a box. It doesn't have to be fancy. I'll rewrap it.

I'll pick it up at the call-desk. And thank you.

It's a pleasure.

-Come back again.

-Thank you.

Fisher and Lewis? Miss Neely, please. Comparison shopping.

Connie Ennis. I'm in the department.

Miss Neely, I can report on those nylons for you.

Wanamaker's and Bloomingdale's do the same shade and price as our Sun Bronze... Same.

..Yes, I'm in Crowley's. I just bought the train.

..Could I bring it in tomorrow for comparison?

I thought, while I'm here, I could buy my son a present.

I'm tired. I'd like to go straight home.

..Thanks a lot, Miss Neely. Bye.

BOY'S VOICE: Good evening, Mrs Ennis!

Good evening, Mr Ennis.

You tried to surprise me, huh?

-I was watching out the window.

-Yeah?

Oh, is it good to see you!

-I lost another tooth.

-Is it under the pillow?

-Yep.

-Attaboy.

-Can I help you, Mom?

Thank you, darling, but they're heavy.

-Are they for me?

-One might be.

-The big one?

-Uh-uh. It's the store's.

-Why does it have a ribbon?

-Anything you buy at Christmas gets a ribbon!

Hello, Joey. You and Timmy have a good afternoon?

Dinner's ready. Just heat it up.

-Thanks, Marie.

-See you tomorrow.

-Night, Tim.

-Night, Marie.

Sorry I stepped on your toe.

It was only an accident!

What did you do all day, Mr Ennis?

-I played with Joey in the park.

-What did you play?

-We threw rocks at girls.

-Timmy!

It was all right. We missed them.

-What did you do all day, Mrs Ennis?

-Oh, I worked and worked.

Now my feet hurt. Oh.

You're tired, huh, Mom?

I was, but I'm not now.

Not once I'm home with my fella.

Let me see your lost tooth. Come on.

Oh, you're all right. I don't have to worry about you.

There. You look more like your daddy every day.

Mom, does it hurt much to die?

No, I don't think so, darling.

-Bye, Joey.

-So long, Joey.

-Doesn't he say goodbye?

-No, he doesn't like to.

-Maybe cos he lives upstairs.

-Oh.

-Did Carl call?

-Yeah, he'll be over later.

Well,

-I ought to get dinner. You go and wash up.

-Oh!

-No arguments now.

-Take off that sweater, get a shirt. Don't forget anything.

-All right.

A train!

Oh, boy. This is what I've wanted for months.

Oh!

Timmy?

Timmy?

Timmy?

-Timmy, what on earth are you doing?

-Just washing my face, Mom.

-What's going on?

-Nothing.

After dinner, pick up your toys. I almost broke my neck.

Put a shirt on - you'll catch cold.

Timmy?

Coming, Mom.

Well, I can't find anything to accuse you of.

Nevertheless, raise your right hand and repeat after me,

I will not peek at the presents until Christmas morning.

I will not peek at the...

..until Christmas morning.

Here. Let me get your shirt.

What are you laughing about?

-I just feel good.

-What do you feel good about?

Christmas. Surprises.

I just feel good, that's all.

Christmas is wonderful. But you can't expect miracles.

My teacher says we shouldn't be afraid to wish for things,

even things we don't think we could get in a million years.

I don't agree. Wish small and you'll be happy.

Wish for big things, you'll get big disappointments.

-Mom!

-Come on, out of the danger zone.

Oh!

What are you leaving that out for?

I'm putting it where I won't forget it.

You're taking it to Miss Martin's so I won't peek at it.

Honey, I told you. It's not for you.

BUZZER

-Well!

-Dishes done?

-Course not. No, you don't!

For me?

No, for the store. It's going back. Why didn't you come for dinner?

I was writing a long, flowery brief.

Oliver Wendell Holmes couldn't have touched it! Hi, Tim.

-Hi!

-Ready for Christmas?

-Mm-hm.

-You want to pick a tree tomorrow?

-Can I?

-Yeah! We might even sneak in a movie.

-That would be swell!

If you play Carl at checkers, I'll let him off the dishes.

He's tough to beat. But... OK.

I'm sorry, Carl. I'm kinda tired.

I think I should go to bed, huh, Mom?

All right. You can listen to some programmes.

Good night. Feed the gerbils and brush your teeth.

Where the tooth came out?

No, around it. Good night, honey.

-I wear the office out with what he says.

-Compliments get you nowhere!

-I'll do it the dangerous way.

-Ooh!

You look like a tired beautiful girl tonight, rather than just beautiful.

It was a rough day! Everyone in New York was shopping!

What did you buy me?

One of those new English cars! Allez-oop!

I'll let you ride on the handle bars - show you off to the boys!

I haven't got a thing to wear!

-We're getting good.

-Quite a team.

Why do we limit it to dish-washing?

Marry me and I'll buy a dishwasher -

a French one with a tight skirt!

What do you say, Connie?

Could you give me more time, Carl?

You've had almost two years.

You know what they say - "This is so sudden!"

Got to have someone to buy loud neckties for!

You told me about it.

Boy, I sure bought Guy some beauts.

-He must have hated them.

-I bet he didn't.

Any more than I would.

Carl, I like you very much - you know that - but I don't feel...

I've done divorces for people who thought, "This is it."

Marry in two days, divorce in two years.

But I've never divorced people who really liked each other.

-There's Timmy. Are you sure...?

-Are you trying to talk me out of it?

I promise you won't have to ask me again. If it's yes, I'll ask you.

Does it feel like yes?

Sort of.

It does feel like time to do these pots and pans.

This time you'll need this. There.

I'll never forget when you hired me.

There I was with the other girls. I was afraid you'd take Evelyn!

Hey, night owl. Why are you still awake?

Oh, I was thinking.

I can't go to sleep.

I've got something for you to think about.

You like Carl, don't you?

Sure, he's a nice guy.

He just asked me to marry him.

Are you going to?

I might.

Why?

Oh, for a lot of reasons.

We could be a real family.

I like us the way we are.

I don't want anybody else.

We could have a house with trees and a yard.

You might even have a dog.

I like THIS place. I don't want it to change.

We'd be the same as we are, Timmy. Only better.

Well, I guess so.

Be especially nice to Carl when he comes tomorrow, huh?

Why? Is it his birthday?

No. I just want him to feel that you like him a lot.

Well...

Good night, Mr Ennis.

Good night.

If you marry him you won't be Mrs Ennis any more.

SHOUTING AND LAUGHING

S'cuse me.

Could you wait on me, please?

Sorry, I'm busy.

Well, hello!

May I help you?

Hello.

-Well, it's...

-Returning the train, huh?

-It's not right.

-I didn't think so.

-My little boy said...

-It was for your boy?

-Why, yes, of course.

-Is that so?

Anything strange about that?

What's your boy's name? Macy's, Saks or Fisher and Lewis?

Honey, I tagged you yesterday. Now I know I'm right.

Didn't ask me about the train, not even the price!

Had the right money, including tax.

Didn't want it sent or wrapped.

Didn't take much to spell comparison shopping.

What are you going to do?

I'll call the store detective

who takes your photo and sends it to each department,

-ending your activities in this store.

-And I get fired.

Hazard of the profession.

When spying expect the firing squad.

My boy ends up with his shoes from Children's Aid and you're a big man.

-We're back to little Butch!

-His name is Timothy and I support him.

And your husband is going through college(?)

My husband was killed in the war.

Would you like to hit me with this?

-I didn't mean to bring that up but...

-I asked for it.

-What now?

-Now I write you a refund slip, which I think I may regret.

Thank you very much.

-Name?

-Connie Ennis.

I'm awfully grateful. It means an awful lot to me.

-Address?

-165 East 75th Street.

Look. Do me a favour.

There are 56 departments here. Don't come back to this one!

OK. Thanks again.

Psst!

Could you wait on me please?

I'd like to see a union suit. Cotton, fleece-lined, long sleeves.

Darling, you remembered.

Now, let's see. Your husband wears about a...

..size 42 or 44, I believe?

No, I want the special - the 56.

Madam, do you know how big that is?

We just have a few made for...fat men.

A 56, please.

Well, that's what I was told to get.

-Still into commercial espionage!

-Fisher and Lewis have to eat!

Let me say you're too professional.

A real customer doesn't know what she wants until she sees it -

THEN she doesn't want it.

What are you doing down here?

I got fired.

-Oh, because of me?

-I should turn you in.

It's a rule, you know.

How in the world did they find out?

Little floor-walkers have big ears!

-Is there anything I can do?

-There certainly is.

When I was a working man - before you - I ate with the boys.

Now, I somehow feel they just don't want me.

-And it is lunchtime.

-I'll even buy!

That's what I had in mind, but I'll buy.

We'll go to my favourite place and I'll order for us.

I'm in your hands.

We have a 56.

It's the only one left but...

It's exactly right. Wrap it and I'll collect it later.

But...madam, really I...!

Madam!

Madam, I ask you!

I like 'em loose!

SEA LIONS BARK

NOISE OF TRAFFIC AND ANIMALS

That's the happiest guy in New York.

-He'll never run the First National Bank.

-Why don't you join him?

Not me. I can't balance balls or eat raw fish.

I don't want to be him, nor him be me.

Wait! You don't have to agree so fast, sport.

-Dessert?

-Sure.

Thank you.

-Thank you.

-Thank you.

Steve, all I know about you so far

is you don't want to be a seal or run a bank.

-What do you want?

-It sounds odd to some people.

-I want to build boats.

-Boats?

-Yeah.

Not the Queen Mary - just little sail boats.

It's not odd. It sounds exciting. Why aren't you doing it?

For one, the war took about five years out of my life.

Then my mistake was listening to people. "Do something sensible!

"Sell real estate, mousetraps. Cut throats and end up vice-president!"

So I got a cosy job with a finance company,

wore suits, lived in one room and cooked on a two-burner.

-You prospered and grew fat.

-That was the plan.

On Monday, I'd buy meat to last all week.

I'd cook it six different ways, though by Saturday it was goulash!

Week after week.

One Monday I went to the butcher's and there was the meat waiting.

My stomach turned over and said, "Please, not again."

I asked the butcher for the thickest steak in the joint.

Wish I had a mink coat for every time I've wanted to do that!

The steak changed my life. It was too big for me so I asked a friend over. His wife was out of town.

While we ate, he told me about a job he couldn't take

because he was married.

It was a job on a boat going to South America.

I asked for it, got it.

-You wouldn't look for a boat so it looked for you.

-Right! That did it.

How can selling trains help you to build boats?

You don't believe in happy endings.

I've got a friend from the army

who has a boatyard in Balboa, California.

It's not much now, but it could be made into something.

I'm buying into it.

I take every job I can get.

Every 100 I get, I send it to him.

It may never make me a million

but for me, it's more fun than digging for oil in Texas

or coal in Kentucky...

Oh, gosh! I need to start digging for carpet-sweepers at Gimbel's!

-I was kept for two hours on a hot dog!

-I'll help make up your time.

-You're a famous interior decorator helping me do my apartment.

-OK!

-Do you always make people talk?

-No, I don't always like listening!

HORNS HONK

If you always carry so much I should go on the payroll!

I took some goldfish on a bus once and dropped one down a woman's back.

-I think I saw the pictures(!)

-It almost happened.

Stop looking so happy - people will think we just got married!

-BELL RINGS

-Hurry, we gotta get it.

Hey, Connie!

Stop ringing that bell!

Hey, Connie!

Hey, Connie!

-Will you take this a minute?

-Yes, dear.

-Humphrey!

-Mabel!

-STEVE!

Steve! Driver, let me out of here! Driver! Steve!

DOOR SLAMS

-Wow!

-Oh, we wanted it done before you saw it.

The man said it won't shed.

Timmy chose it after a sundae gave him strength.

Well, it's the most beautiful tree I've ever seen.

You're a fine picker-outer!

-Have you got a spare kiss?

-If he hasn't, I have!

-Oh, I'm spoken for.

-How's my baby?

-This was to surprise you, but you're early.

I left some packages at Wanamaker's. I can't go back till I find them.

-Marie! Were there any calls?

-I let her go. We can go out to dinner.

You're lovely.

Do it again.

-See what you do to me?

-You're crazy.

Honey, go and change into your suit for dinner. Go on.

-Did you tell him about us?

-I said you asked me.

-How did he take it?

-You know how children are. Change scares them.

I remember we moved when I was four.

Mother threw away loads of junk and I thought she'd throw me away too!

I'm glad she didn't.

Honey, when we take the lights down, let's not tie them in knots, huh?

I don't want to spend an hour next year untangling them, too!

Have you anything to ask me?

Anything romantic? I have my new tie on!

Well, Mr Davies. Long have I admired you from afar...

BUZZER

I should have come down the chimney! I looked all over for you.

It's the last time I ever pick up a girl at Christmas!

-Let me help with the packages.

-Hi.

How do you do.

-This is Steve...

-Mason.

-Uh...uh.

-Carl Davies.

-How do you do.

-The man from Wanamaker's?

-Crowley's. We were shopping...

-We got separated. We met at Crowley's.

-She got me fired.

-That's how we met.

Mr Mason took my packages to the bus and we were split in the crowds.

It happens in crowds.

It's warm in here. I called your hotel. They said you weren't there.

-Where d'you find me?

-It wasn't easy. I tried the phone-book.

-It's new.

I had the packages so I rang Fisher and Lewis, but they didn't know you.

They don't give out information about comparison shoppers.

They treated me like Jack the Ripper!

I went to the store and got your number in the payroll department.

What a day!

-Dear, I'll get Mr Mason a drink.

-Hey, he's got it upstairs.

I'll get us all one!

Looks like a white Christmas.

That's right. Never seems like Christmas unless it is white.

That's right. Still, there isn't the big snow we had when we were kids.

That's right. It's just slush now.

That's right.

Probably something to do with the atomic bomb.

Hey, that's right.

Last year it rained.

That's right, I remember.

They need rain in California.

-Is that so?

-I read it in the papers.

-I'm from California.

-Is that so?

-Never rains.

-Is that so?

I was in California one June.

Is that so?

Rained all the time!

Must have been about ten years ago.

That's right.

Very unusual.

Is that so?

-Mind if I go on trimming my tree?

-No.

-No, go right ahead.

-Thank you.

Guy?

Yeah.

Tim's a lot like him, Connie says.

Tim's her son.

I know.

-She says he has the same habits.

-He never knew his father, did he?

No. Connie talks about him all the time.

It's wonderful the way she keeps him...sort of alive.

Is it?

After all, he's not alive.

-Here, let me help you, dear.

-Thank you, Carl.

-Mr Mason.

-Thank you.

CONNIE AND CARL: There's nothing like a good...

BOTH: Here's to a merry...

Christmas.

DOOR OPENS

Oh, here's Timmy.

Come here, darling.

-Steve, meet the man of the house.

-Hi, Tim. I'm Steve Mason.

-Hi, Mr Mason.

-He looks like you.

-Do you think?

-Sure.

-Everyone thinks he's like his father.

Timmy, I have to ask some questions. It's a rule for grown ups.

Like how old I am? What grade I'm in?

-Yes. When you get older you're allowed to be annoying to kids.

-OK.

Um, what do you like best at school?

The other kids.

What are you going to get for Christmas?

Clothes. That's what I always get. Clothes.

-You can't wear what I'm getting you.

-A camera.

-How did you know?

-Cos you asked me if I wanted one.

-Timmy, that's not nice.

-He didn't mean it as it sounded.

If everything works out as I hope,

you'll get a lot of things next Christmas you can't guess.

-Don't get me anything.

-Go to your room!

-No!

-Do what your mother says.

-You can't make me.

-Timmy!

-Wait a minute, son.

I'm not your son. Keep your camera. And keep your hands off my mother!

Carl! Leave him. Keep your hands off my boy.

Carl?

-I'm sorry, Carl.

-Good night, Connie.

Carl?

Go to bed! You don't get any supper.

Thanks.

What happens now? Bread and water for a week?

I come to return packages and look what happens.

-It had nothing to do with you.

-Oh, it hadn't?

You didn't tell Carl about me.

-It wasn't important.

-Maybe not telling him made it seem important.

He went out of his way to say, "Hands off" to me.

That may be why the kid flared up.

Oh, I don't think so.

Fine welcome you got. After the trouble I put you to.

I wanted to see the Ennises at home.

You certainly saw them.

If people would just let us alone...

I mean...

I don't know what I mean.

Goodbye, Connie.

-I'm not coming back.

-What brought that on?

I think it's save us both a lot of trouble.

I might fall in love with you.

It's not impossible.

I might even ask you to marry me and you'd say no.

Not that you're not right, but what makes you so sure?

It's written all over the walls.

You want everything just so. Status quo. You and Timmy. No changes.

You've even got HIM wanting it.

Go on. Don't stop now.

Connie, look. Don't make him grow up, help him.

He's a wonderful kid - let him be a kid for a while.

Stop making him your husband.

-What do you mean?

-You call him the man of the house, Mr Ennis.

You're upset if someone thinks he isn't like his father.

You even fool with his hair to make it like the picture.

Quit hanging on to something you've lost.

Is that all?

Take another look in your crystal ball, there must be something else.

What happened to this girl? Is she ever around?

You're so sure of everything!

Half an hour in the park and you're a wise man of the east.

Except you're wrong. On every point you're wrong.

-For instance.

-That I don't want changes.

Is that why I'm marrying Carl?

Could be. If you do marry him, you could have a problem with Tim.

I won't have a problem with Tim. He loves Carl.

There's a poem, "Each man kicks the thing he loves."

-That's not why he kicked him.

-He has other reasons?

No child likes his mother to remarry. It takes time to adjust.

Of all the people to criticise.

You'll be 90 before you build a canoe!

-A while ago you thought it was interesting.

-Now, I don't.

OK, Connie, I'm going. Do you mind if I say goodbye to Tim?

CLINKS ON GLASS

Hi, Joey.

I wish I could come over but I've been sent to bed.

Bye. I've gotta go.

-Hello.

-Hello, Timmy.

-Sorry I was so bad in there.

-You kicked up quite a fuss.

-Do you think he's really mad at me?

-No.

When you see him, say you're sorry.

-He looks like a nice guy.

-He is.

I don't know why I was so mean in there.

I let 'em swim in the bath every day.

Once one of them got kidnapped in the vacuum cleaner but I rescued it.

You ought to get them a hyacinth blossom.

They like to nibble it. It's like catnip for cats.

-How do you know?

-They had some in a toy department where I once worked.

How did Mom get you fired?

That door. I can hear things through it sometimes.

Especially when you put your ear to it.

I drilled a hole in my floor when I was a kid so I saw the living-room.

But how did Mom get you fired?

Oh, I sold her a train, she brought it back and I didn't do something.

A little electric train, red and silver with a whistle...

-You saw it?

-Yeah. Don't tell Mom.

-I won't.

I opened the package and took a peek.

I thought it was for me, but it wasn't.

Gee! It sure was a swell train.

-Timmy. You know when you got mad in there?

-Uh-huh.

Well, sometimes when I get mad, I find it's not why I thought.

-Does that ever happen to you?

-I guess we're a lot alike.

-We are.

Anyway, do you think it was the train you were mad about?

I don't even think about it any more.

Cos I know I can't have it.

Look, Timmy. I'll show you something I learned as a kid.

Here. Hop up.

Take the ball and try and hit the moon on the blackboard. Aim at it.

-Oh, heck!

-Don't give up. Now, try again.

This time aim a bit higher than the moon.

-Hey!

-I hit the moon!

That's the idea.

Aim higher than your mark and you've more chance of hitting it.

So if you wish real hard for something, maybe you might get it.

That's what my teacher said. But I don't know.

I wished for the train till my stomach hurt.

But Mom took it back anyway.

Well, that shouldn't make a big fella like you quit.

Goodbye, Tim.

-Have a wonderful Christmas.

-Thanks.

-I'll try and rustle you something up.

-Don't worry.

Mom always gives me supper anyway.

Merry Christmas.

-Hello, Carl.

-Hi.

-Oh, thank you.

Well, I wish I'd had time to go and get pretty.

The flowers were lovely, Carl. Thank you. So was the note.

-Made me feel sought after.

-You are.

Jacques.

-Do you wish to order now?

-No, later.

-Two martinis. Dry. One with two olives.

-Yes, sir.

I'm sorry about last night, Connie.

It was all my fault. I should have mentioned Steve.

That didn't bother me.

It was that, "Take your hands off my boy."

-You know I didn't mean that, Carl.

-No, I don't know.

Let me tell you how I feel.

If we get married - and I hate that "if" -

Timmy can be one of two things to me.

He can be your son who lives in our house. And I'd be very nice to him.

Or he can be OUR son. In that case I'll bawl him out, spoil him,

discipline him, worry about him

and love him.

If we do get married, he'll be our son.

Thank you.

-He called me up today.

-Timmy?

-Mm-hm.

Marie dialled for him! He said he was sorry and other nice things.

-He kept me on the phone while he blew his nose!

-I'm glad he called.

Thank you.

Why don't you marry me, Carl? New Year's Day.

I'm not kidding. We'll start the year off right.

-Are you playing hard to get?

-No.

What made this switch?

I don't want uncertainty any more.

Besides, as I was saying yesterday, long have I admired you from afar.

It's going to be a wonderful evening.

We'll have dinner and then see Moss Hart's new show.

We'll go home, make sure Timmy's asleep, then sit down and neck.

-Is that what married people do?

-Hmm. Then...

MERRY CHRISTMAS!

MERRY CHRISTMAS! Mom! Mom! Thank you! Thank you!

-For which present?

-You sure did fool me.

-Baby!

-You told me I wouldn't get anything wonderful for Christmas.

But when I saw it outside the door!

Mom! Mom!

You told me to get the milk from the hall if I woke early.

You KNEW I would at Christmas.

-Hey!

-Let's see. I've got to see what's going on around here.

-Look! I already opened it!

-What?!

Mom! Mom, I love it!

Ooh! I love you!

I'm sure glad of that.

These go together, the cars light up and it says Red Rocket Express.

It's a wonderful train, sweetheart.

The doors open. You put a note in but I can't read big words.

"Timmy, this whistled as I passed. It said it wants you for Christmas."

-It's signed Santa. I guess it's from Santa.

-Mom!

I've got a surprise for you too.

-Look! I fixed it up myself.

-I was looking for that stocking all week!

-I had it hid away.

-Character!

-Christmas gift!

-Oh, Tim.

-Open it.

-Give me a chance.

It's perfume. Not toilet water, real perfume.

I know, I can see. Look!

I saved up for it all myself.

I told the store-lady it was for you so she wouldn't think I was a girl!

-I'll have to give you a kiss now.

-No. Don't need it.

-You'll get one anyway!

-I fooled you. You fooled me and I fooled you.

-Sure did.

-But how did you know I wanted the train so bad?

-I didn't tell anyone except Mr Mason.

-Mr Mason?

He said he wouldn't tell you.

I know, I didn't get the ribbon back on right, so you knew I'd peeked.

-You know everything.

-You peeked?

I thought the one from the store was for me.

-And then I said it wasn't.

-And then I cried.

I'm so happy. If I was a dog my tail would be wagging.

Tim, I've got to tell you about that train.

PHONE RINGS

I wonder who that is? I'll be right back.

Merry Christmas, darling.

Did I wake you up?

I couldn't sleep. I don't know any reason why you should!

Well, I'm a little upset.

A present came for Tim - an electric train.

I'm sure it's from Steve Mason. Only he knew Tim wanted it.

I've no idea why he did it.

Simple enough! He moves in on Tim,

makes my camera look like the head of a pin and makes a play for you.

I don't care about his motives, I want to know what to do about it.

I can't return it. Tim's delirious. But it's too expensive to accept.

Well, let's give him his money back.

I can't let you do that, Carl.

Look, I'll work it out. I'm upset now. I'll call you later.

OK.

HE BLOWS KISS

Bye.

Timmy!

-I'm in the kitchen, Mom.

-Oh.

-I'm setting the table so you won't have to.

-Thank you, sweetheart.

-I'm going to take better care of my stuff now. And wash more.

-Wonderful!

-You know the cup the mouse broke?

-Mm-hm.

-Well, he didn't.

-Mm-hm!

I didn't think he did.

Mom? If the train cost so much,

couldn't we take my other presents and get the money back?

I didn't get you that train, Timmy.

Well, who did?

-Mr Mason. The man who was here the other day.

-Mr Mason?

-Mm-hm.

-Gee! He must be awfully rich!

-No, he's not.

-Well, I only met him once.

-I know you did.

He must have liked you an awful lot.

It's the nicest thing anyone did for me. Except you, I mean.

Oh, I'm everyday. This was special.

-I'll have to thank him.

-I can do that for you.

It's early - he'll be at the hotel. I have things to say to Mr Mason.

-I'll go with you.

-No. Grandma and Grandpa are coming.

They want to see you open your presents.

Ask Mr Mason if he can come and eat with us.

Maybe he'll help set up the trains.

I can't. There's Grandma, Grandpa and Carl.

Why don't you eat with your spoon? It might be a big help.

-You've been nice to Carl these last few days.

-Sure.

Hey! If Mr Mason can't eat with us, maybe he can come over anyway.

Well, I'll see what he says. I'll ask him.

We'll have to have a present for him.

-All the stores are closed!

-There are nice ones under the tree.

Timmy, those are for Carl!

Anyway, the wallet has his initials...and the keyring.

-The necktie doesn't.

-Timmy! We couldn't do that.

Oh... We'll talk about it later.

Go on. Eat your cornflakes.

With your spoon!

-Mr Mason, please.

-Steve?

-That's right.

-He's not here. He checked out.

-He did? When?

-Over an hour ago.

-Did he leave a forwarding address?

-No.

He didn't say anything?

-No, he left with a big Christmas package.

-I know about that!

He's a funny fella. I invited him for a coffee and he said, "No, thanks."

He said he was having breakfast with a man who wouldn't run the bank.

-Maybe you'll figure it out, lady!

-I think I can. Thank you.

DOG BARKS

-Well, what brings YOU here?

-What brings you HERE?

-Can this be coincidence?

-No, I went to the hotel. I knew you'd be here.

What did you wish to see me about? Step into the office.

Breakfast?

Oh, no, thanks. I've eaten. Who's your friend?

It's an orphan. I'm all it has in the world.

-Steve, why did you get Timmy the train?

-I wanted to.

You can't afford it. It was sweet, but I can't let you.

I'll pay it back - some now, the rest tomorrow.

Sorry! The train is between my friend and me.

-Steve, really...

-Sorry!

-We made a list of what Timmy wanted. He didn't say a train.

-I know.

I made lists when I was a kid too.

It took me 20 years to get over the habit. I'm trying to save Tim time.

He shouldn't feel he'll always get what he wants.

No. But now and then. So he knows it CAN happen.

Besides, a train seemed right. It's exciting, taking you to new places.

For a kid who's been told there's no surprises, it seemed a great idea.

Well, he's just crazy about it.

About you too. He got you a present. Merry Christmas.

-No?

-Mm-hm. I said I'd thank you for him.

-He said the train was one of the nicest things he's had.

-Really?

And how was he supposed to know I like noisy neckties?

-Hey, Mac.

-Yeah?

-You want a tie?

-Sure.

-Thanks, mister. Christmas is here after all.

-And many of 'em.

-Looks like you made a couple of people happy.

-I can't wear two ties.

-And one person unhappy.

-Who's that?

Carl. You made trouble for me with that train.

-He suspects your motives.

-So would I, if I were in his shoes.

I'm marrying Carl. New Year's Day.

Good for you. Looks like a nice guy.

Oh, he is.

Carl and I are old friends. I know where I stand.

He's safe and secure. I feel awfully good about it.

You ought to switch jobs. Quit buying and start selling.

You're great at selling yourself a bill of goods.

-Look...

-You married a man you were in love with once.

You know it's impossible to be safe and secure when you're in love.

What are you trying to do? Crawl into a cave

to hide from what stirs you up?

-If I want to.

-Neat if you can get away with it. I don't think you can.

Life will crawl in with you and kick your teeth out.

-I'll manage.

-You've got to take everything that's coming to you.

All the surprises - good and bad.

I can't afford surprises.

Every surprise isn't a telegram from the War Department, you know.

-I should have known it was wrong to see you again.

-So why come?

To give you the money for the train.

You could have sent it with a three-cent stamp.

-Steve, I came because...

-Mister!

-Are you the man who gave a man a necktie?

-That's right.

He said it was nice to get a Christmas present

and he wants to give you one back. It's what he said.

-Where did he go?

-To Brooklyn.

-Thank you. Shouldn't they be ice-skates?

-I didn't get ice-skates.

Cathy! Look what I got - roller-skates!

Where do you suppose he got this?

Maybe he's an eccentric millionaire. Not everyone like that is a hobo.

Like everyone who gives kids 80 trains isn't a millionaire!

Just what I needed - salt and pepper shakers! I've lived like a pig.

Steve, why did you check out of your hotel?

I wanted a cheaper place for the couple of weeks I'm here.

-You're going?

-California. I'll work in the boatyard to keep buying in.

-I'm just here until I earn a train fare. Don't worry.

-I'm not worried.

OK, Carl can stop worrying!

Since I won't see you again, will you not be annoying?

Sure. Goodbye, Connie.

Have a nice quiet life.

TRAIN WHISTLES

-Mother!

-Connie!

-Merry Christmas!

Hello, darling. Happy Christmas.

-Merry Christmas to you.

-Thank you, darling.

-Oh, boy!

Connie, he looks wonderful. He's grown at least two inches!

Easily!

He looks more like Guy every time I see him.

-Father, remember how Guy...

-Now, Mother!

It's good to see you! It's been so long!

We have your whole Christmas dinner. The turkey will last all week!

Mother's going to cook it. I'll serve it and you won't do a thing!

Look at the catcher mitt Grandma and Grandpa brought me.

And the baseball and the bat.

-And the slippers!

-Isn't that nice?

Oh! He slipped!

Did Mr Mason like his present?

Mm-hm.

Ah, yes. We're looking forward to meeting your man at dinner today.

-My man?

-Timmy told us. We're so happy for you.

How nice to buy him that wonderful train.

I'm not marrying Mr Mason. Timmy, you know very well I'm not.

I didn't say WHO you were marrying.

He keeps talking about Mr Mason.

You rushed out Christmas morning...

It's Carl I'm marrying. You remember Carl Davies?

-Carl?!

-Why, yes.

Well, that's just fine. Don't you think so, Father?

Yes, fine.

-He called up. Carl.

-What did he say?

He asked where you were. I said you went to Mr Mason's hotel.

Swell! Then what did he say?

Said he'd be right over.

BUZZER See?

-Merry Christmas!

-Merry Christmas.

-For dinner.

-Mr and Mrs Ennis.

-Good to see you again, Carl.

Connie's told us the news. we're so very pleased.

She talked me into it.

TIM: Look at the train Mr Mason bought me!

So you saw Mason at his hotel?

Not at the hotel, we talked in the park.

-The park?

-We talked in Central Park.

He eats there.

With the seals.

Did he say why he gave Timmy the train?

He said it was because he wanted to.

-I went to give him money back. It was your idea.

-Did you?

He wouldn't take it.

-It's so expensive. If he hardly knows you, it seems odd.

-Doesn't it?

It's the kind of fellow he is. It's not odd at all.

Why are you upset, dear?

Why didn't you ask Mr Mason over?

-Yes, why didn't you?

-Look, I can't explain it any more than I have.

If it bothers you, it can stop bothering you.

He's leaving town anyway.

-He's going away to build boats.

-Going away?

-Boats?

Yes, those things on water!

I'm never going to see him again, so let's just have a nice Christmas.

BUZZER

Mr Mason?

No, Johnstone. Police department.

Police?

I'm looking for Mrs Ennis.

BOTH: I'm Mrs Ennis.

The Mrs Ennis who was in the park, if she was?

-That's me.

-You know a Steve Mason?

Did something happen to him?

He's at the precinct, in trouble. He says you can help.

What kind of trouble?

-I can't say. But we'll be glad to listen to you.

-Get your coat, dear.

-I'm coming!

-I don't think you should.

-He's my friend.

-All right. Hurry.

And shortly before 9am in Central Park,

a Mr Mervyn Fisher was hit on the head, tied up with a necktie,

and robbed of a wallet containing 120

and a pair of silver salt and pepper shakers -

a present for his aunt in Flushing.

Later, Officer McLeary saw Mr Mason loitering suspiciously.

He admits he is unemployed, homeless,

leaving town and that the necktie belonged to him.

The salt and pepper shakers were found on his person.

I'm sorry. I just thought it would be much worse.

You suspected he was involved in serious crime?

-Oh, no. Nothing like that.

-Connie! Lieutenant,

-I'm a lawyer.

-If I need one, I'll send for you.

If I need a comical cop, I'll call you.

I'm defending this man - with his permission.

With gratitude but probably no fee!

-Why isn't Fisher identifying the suspect?

-He didn't see who hit him.

And he had to get to his aunt's.

Was Mr Mason searched for the stolen money?

-Searched? They looked four times in my ears!

-You like that cell, bud?

Sorry, no more jokes!

-No, he didn't have the money. Just 7.52.

-Well, then?

Well, what? You can dump money.

-I haven't enough men to search.

-I think I can clear this up.

Go ahead, ma'am. If Clarence Darrow here hasn't any objections(!)

You've no idea how interested I am!

I was with Mr Mason in the park.

He gave his necktie to a man he thought was a hobo as a present.

A minute later, a girl on roller skates with a balloon on her head

brought a present from the hobo - salt and pepper shakers.

A little girl on roller skates

with a balloon on her head!

Has a complaint been lodged against Mr Mason?

-What's he got to do with it anyway?

-He's my lawyer.

-And my fiance.

Oh, I see. He's your fiance.

-You're marrying the counsellor here?

-That's right.

And why were you with this guy on Christmas morning?

I don't see what this has to do with the case.

Oh? You don't?

-No.

-Well, I wanted to see him and he was in the park.

He eats there with the seals.

You see, this morning a train came, an electric one,

for my boy, Timmy, from Mr Mason.

The guy's without a job, broke,

without a bed to sleep in and he buys a kid an electric train.

Why?

It's Christmas. I wanted to give a present and didn't know anyone else.

Is that why you gave a hobo your tie?

I'd just given him a tie - the one he's wearing. Because his present...

Where did you buy a tie, 8am, Christmas morning?

She had the tie under the tree. It was a present she had for him.

The relationships here are nothing to do with the case.

You have nothing but circumstantial evidence.

I dunno. Why did he hide behind the rock when he saw the policeman?

-I wasn't hiding.

-What were you doing?

He'll never believe this.

Oh, I might.

Go ahead. Try me.

I was feeding a squirrel.

He's an orphan. He depends on me.

The guy is without a job,

gives Christmas presents to a tramp,

gets presents

from a girl with a balloon on her head,

eats in the park with the seals,

is the mother and father to an orphan squirrel.

You don't think this guy is a suspicious character?

Everything is true. Don't you believe us?

Sure. Everything you said is what he said before you got here.

I'm just saying maybe he shouldn't be allowed out without a keeper!

-Can he go free?

-I'd have to let him if he weren't skipping town.

I'm not. I have a room. 137 Christopher Street.

Changed your mind, huh?

Going to stick around for a while?

Just till I earn the fare to California.

-I've got a job there.

-Why not touch him for it?

I bet he'd be glad to get your ticket to California, or the moon!

-Now, look here...

-LIEUTENANT: Case dismissed.

-Thank you.

-And Merry Christmas.

It only LOOKED like I was sending you to the chair!

I didn't think you were - for long!

Not entirely for the lieutenant's reasons but...let me pay your fare.

-What if you don't get a job?

-Nobody hires much now.

-It's just a loan.

Thanks, but I want to break the - pardon the phrase - tie that binds!

-Mum, why can't Steve have Christmas dinner with us?

-I don't...

He must have plans of his own.

No, he doesn't. He doesn't know anyone but us. He said so in there.

It's expensive in a restaurant and we have a big turkey...

-I'd love to, but I really can't.

-Oh, Mom. Come on, Steve. Please!

I like it so much I can't take it off.

I may pick all your clothes now!

TIM: Kiss Grandma, Grandpa! Hold it!

Now take me!

How about seconds?

Remember, I'm the waiter here.

Then WAIT!

I made a joke!

TIM: I want a drumstick.

-How many legs does a turkey have?

-It should have four like a horse!

I'll take it up with the Audubon Society.

-I think I'll open another bottle of wine.

-Yes.

Mother, will you please finish your dinner?

All right!

And don't be moody. Holidays, she always gets moody.

One remembers more on holiday.

The little, funny things.

-Anything will start you off.

-Like Mr Mason's necktie!

Forgive me, but it is loud!

It's like those Connie gave Guy.

She said, "It's a symbol of our wild and fiery love."

Mom gave Steve that one.

Oh, Father, you've had four already.

What you don't count won't hurt you!

Besides, I need strength for a speech.

TIM: Yay!

Mother, I've been married to you 35 years.

You boss me, heckle me,

hide things and pretend I lost them.

Just so I depend on you.

You've spent 36 years

trying to make me admit I couldn't get on without you.

And you're right. I couldn't.

What's more, I wouldn't want to.

Every one of those years was good.

Even the bad ones, because you were with me.

And so I drink to your health, and the wonderful years to come.

Carl, just be as happy with Connie as I've been with Mother. That's all.

That's not all, at all. This is the happiest Christmas of my life.

I never had a family and today I know what I missed.

But I'll never have to miss it again. From now I have a wife, son -

and if Connie will share them - a mother-in-law and a father-in-law.

Connie, I've loved you for a long time

and I've waited for you a long time.

But it was worth it.

Steve, we wish you luck in California.

And we're glad you're not alone at Christmas, but with us.

Thank you.

Very nice.

-TIM: Steve's turn!

-I pass. I'm too full.

-Come on.

-Go ahead, Steve.

Well, you've been very kind, taken me in and given me a great dinner.

And there's really nothing to say - after dessert, of course -

except thank you and goodbye!

That's all I was going to say but...

you asked for it.

Connie, I think Carl is one of the nicest fellows I could hope to meet.

But I think you ought to marry me.

Father, we'll go and get coffee and dessert.

I don't think anyone wants it now.

Maybe you think it's wrong to say this in front of Timmy.

But I don't see the harm in knowing that two men like his mother.

Maybe it's bad taste to say it to Carl,

but is it better to sneak around?

I don't think so.

If it's biting the hand that fed me, look at my problem.

I've walked out of Connie's life a few times

and each time I'm brought back.

Lost packages, train, cop.

Accidents.

I can't keep counting on accidents.

If I leave now, I'm sunk.

I'll never see her again.

The way I see it, when a man loves a girl,

he's got a right to ask her to marry him.

Any girl. Anybody's girl.

What do you say, Connie?

You'd better get your hat and coat.

It's a fair answer to a fair question.

I wish you a very Merry Christmas.

MINGLING VOICES

Where do I go to get my money back?

Toys, third floor. Are you alone?

No, someone's in the elevator.

WOMAN'S VOICE: Third floor.

Let me out!

Wait a minute! Somebody broke my train.

Hey!

Little man?

What have we here?

I got two trains for Christmas.

My mom got me one and my friend got that one.

May I have the money to give back?

It's broken.

It's just a little broke.

It got broke in the elevator. I didn't do it. Honest!

Where's your mother?

-My mother?

-You're not alone, are you?

-No, she's here.

-Where?

She's... She's in the bathroom.

Imagine her nerve!

So I said, "Madam, see Mr Crowley. He owns the store.

"Show him your broken lamp and he's sure to give your money back."

I'll bet you told her.

Where's Mr Crowley's office?

Eighth floor, sonny.

Where's Mr Crowley's office?

-The secretary behind the partition.

-Thank you.

Yes, I see.

Mr Crowley can't be disturbed. Try tomorrow morning.

Well, hello.

What is it, son?

I got to see Mr Crowley. Please!

Mr Crowley? Are you alone?

Yes, ma'am.

What's your name?

Timothy Ennis.

Well, what's the trouble?

I got two trains for Christmas.

So will Mr Crowley give my money back, please!

Well, I don't know.

He's the only man who can help me.

Please can I see him?

Well...

Come along with me and we'll see what we can do.

Sit right here, Timmy. And don't run away.

And I think I can get Mr Crowley to see you.

Don't call my mother or a policeman.

I won't call your mother OR a policeman.

OK. Thank you.

GENTLE MUSIC PLAYS

Emily! This is the meditation hour!

I'm sorry to disturb you,

but one of our customers, a Mr Ennis, is outside asking to see you.

You know I don't see the customers.

-You'll want to see this one.

-Why?

Because Mr Ennis is roughly six years old.

-Six?

-And seems to be in an awful lot of trouble.

-Is he alone?

-The alonest little fellow I ever saw!

Emily, don't keep the customer waiting.

Timmy?

Mr Crowley,

this is Mr Timothy Ennis.

I'm at your service, Timothy.

Won't you come a little closer?

So you have our Red Rocket Express.

I hope it wasn't unsatisfactory.

I... I... I got two trains for Christmas.

My mom bought me one train and my friend bought me this one.

Please, can I have the money back?

Timothy, this is a little unusual. We'll look into it.

It got broke in the elevator.

-I didn't do it! Honest!

-I see.

-You got two trains for Christmas?

-No, I'll tell you the truth.

I only got this one train for Christmas. Steve got it for me.

He's my friend and he's real poor.

And he hasn't got a job.

And he shouldn't have spent his money. I want to give it back to him.

-And the lady said you could help me.

-Now, now, now. Take it easy.

It's not as bad as that. Now, come on. Stop crying.

Now, Timmy, suppose you tell me the story from the beginning.

Well, it all started with my mother.

Her name is Mrs Ennis.

And she works for Fisher and Lewis. She's a comparison shopper.

And she bought a train here...

Yes. Yes, officer. He's been missing most of the afternoon.

He's never done this before. I don't understand.

We've covered every block within a mile.

Just a minute.

-Tim hasn't run away before?

-He hasn't run away. Why would he?

No.

That's right, brown corduroy jacket, brown corduroy pants.

-Yes, and a blue hat.

-They've asked all that. They should go and look!

No, we haven't checked them yet.

Checked where? The hospitals?

Take it easy, darling.

Yes, officer.

That's right.

Carl! Carl!

-Hi, Mom.

-Don't ever go off like that again. Are you all right?

-Sure.

-Where were you?

-And who was that man?

-Mr Crowley. He's nice.

-He said he wished he had a boy just like me.

-Mr Crowley from the store?

-That's miles from here.

-I know. I almost got killed twice.

-Oh, Timmy.

-It's OK. I didn't.

Why did you go to Crowley's?

I took my train back.

But why, honey?

-It wasn't any fun any more.

-But you loved it so.

It cost too much.

Steve hasn't got a job. Maybe he doesn't have money to eat any more.

Can you give him the money now? He needs it.

-We don't know where he lives.

-137 Christopher Street.

He told the police. I don't want to leave you.

-It's OK. I'll go to sleep. I'm tired. I walked a lot.

-Poor baby.

-Tell him I didn't take the train back cos I didn't like it.

-OK.

-And tell him I'll never forget him.

-Suddenly I have a grown-up boy.

Let's give him the money and have our dinner.

Carl. You give him the money. I think I'll wait here.

In the case of Connie Ennis versus Carl Davies, I offer this evidence.

-Carl!

-The party of the first part, Connie Ennis

- although loved by Carl Davies -

for two long years did avoid the idea of a marriage between them.

Upon the entrance of a stranger into her life, four days ago,

said Connie Ennis suddenly consented to this marriage.

-There was no connection.

-Since meeting this stranger,

Connie Ennis, normally calm, stable and frank,

becomes nervous, quick-tempered and evasive.

Carl, I don't like this.

Upon a proposal from the stranger - rarely an insult to women -

-she is outraged and orders him out.

-For your sake!

-Carl...

-Hearing his address once, she remembers it.

She hesitates to give him money that might remove him from her area.

And in conclusion,

she is fearful of seeing him again.

Why are you saying these things?

The facts are plain and must be faced by both parties

however reluctant they are made by their goodwill for each other,

wishful thinking and long-standing affection.

I submit this case is ready for summation.

This case?

This divorce case, darling.

Oh, I see. You've got it all added up.

It's my business to add up facts. I'm a lawyer, you know. Or did you?

I won an important decision a few days ago. It was in all the papers.

Maybe I wanted to show off a little

but you never say anything about my work.

I'm sorry, Carl.

I've had a lot on my mind. But you know I'm interested in what you do.

As my wife you'd be thoughtful and considerate about everything.

About my home, my health and my career.

But I have a sneaking suspicion that I ought to see if, somewhere,

there's a girl who might be in love with me.

Even if she's a dumb frowzy blonde who feeds me on canned beans!

-Carl, you've changed.

-It's been a big week for both of us.

Awful little train to hold enough dynamite to change your life.

Anything can change a life ready to be changed -

a train, a necktie, anything.

My life was just changed by someone not getting out of a car.

-It's been a long time.

-No time is wasted that makes people friends.

Better give him the money.

I'll wait five minutes.

If you don't find interesting company you have a date for dinner.

-You're a wonderful fellow, Carl.

-Compliments will get you no place.

-It's the last room at the end of the hall.

-Thank you.

And leave the door open!

BUZZER RINGS

Come in.

Well, you found the place!

Few people come here to eat now. Too much atmosphere.

Thinking of closing down to redecorate.

The landlady said to keep it open.

Let's worry her, huh?

But let's not worry you.

I never expected to see you.

I have 79.50 plus tax that belongs to you.

Will people quit chasing me trying to give me money!

It's from Timmy. He took his train back. All by himself!

Why? He was crazy about it.

He wants you to have the money. And he said he'll never forget you.

-What a kid!

-Well!

You're pretty good!

-Where did you learn this?

-I picked it up as I went along.

Well, looks like a Happy New Year all around.

I can shake myself loose and grab the first cheap train to California.

You and Carl will be preparing for your honeymoon.

Carl and I aren't getting married.

I guess that's my cue to propose again.

But I'm not going to.

-Nobody asked you to.

-Wouldn't you like to know why?

-Not particularly.

-I'll tell you anyway.

I've been talking to myself too.

Carl isn't the real threat to me. Maybe I'm not to him.

This isn't two fellas and a girl. It's two guys, a girl and a husband.

I can't fight a shadow. I tried. It's too tough.

You were marrying a man you didn't love

so you wouldn't be unfaithful to your husband.

You're always so wrong about me.

I have wonderful memories of Guy. You're trying to take them away.

Nobody wants that. I don't. I'm sure Carl doesn't.

All I want is for you to live in the present and not fear the future.

Maybe it can happen again

if you don't pretend something that's dead is still alive.

All right. If it makes you happy, you're right about me all the time.

I want everything how it is, Mrs Status Quo, no changes.

I want a girl who drops everything and runs to me, no matter what!

Bye, Steve.

Looks like we're always saying goodbye.

Hope you find what you're looking for, Connie.

Maybe something you're not.

Well, what happened?

Seems everyone wants frowzy blondes this year.

-Guess I'm not the type.

-Did you put up a fight?

-Please take me home.

No little train's going to push you around, eh?