Madonna of the Seven Moons

SHE SOBS

Maddalena?

The Reverend Mother wishes to see you.

Maddalena... I had this letter this morning from your father.

He thinks you've been with us long enough and that now you ought to take your proper place in life.

-But, Reverend Mother, I want to stay here always.

-That's just how I'd like you to feel.

But we can't always think of ourselves, my child. Your father has plans for your future.

You've heard of Mr Giuseppe Labardi?

I met him once. With Father.

Mr Labardi wants to marry you and it would make your father very happy.

Marry? No, no. I don't want to get married. I want to stay here with you always.

But you don't want to disappoint your father.

No, Reverend Mother.

We shall miss you, Maddalena,

and I want you to take this prayer book for your comfort always.

Thank you, Reverend Mother.

Bless you, my child.

It's so quaint and charming.

I've had that prayer book for years. It was given me just before I was married.

About this idea of yours, Sister, I'd much rather not.

Madame Labardi, without you, there would have been no children's ward in our hospital.

-It's only right that it should bear your name.

-I couldn't agree to that.

I meant to have done so much more for the children. And for my daughter too.

Well, did you persuade Maddalena?

No, Mr Labardi, she would not consent.

I warned you that she will not advertise.

Mario!

Good afternoon.

Good afternoon.

A pity Botticelli isn't alive. I should have liked him to paint you just as you are now.

-He painted saints.

-I know.

Looking at that map again?

I suppose it's all right for Angela and Millie Fiske to come all the way from England by car at their age?

Yes, she must be having the time of her life after being pent up in school for five years.

It may be too much for her. She's a quiet, retiring child.

She was. When I last saw her, she'd come a long way out of her shell.

School and England will have changed her quite a bit.

I hope not too much. Five years is a long time to be separated from your daughter.

I'm looking forward to picking up the old threads again.

Forget about the old threads and be prepared for some new ones.

-We've got to move with the times. Her times.

-I hate the idea of those children coming all that way alone.

Let's look at that map.

They must have broken the back of their journey by now.

Let me see. Here we are.

They crossed from Dover to Calais on Monday morning,

so if I'm any judge, by now they should have reached Cannes.

Shove them in the back. There'll be three of us.

-Are you going far, monsieur?

-As far as Rome, but we're breaking the journey at Florence.

Hello, Angela. Are you ready?

-You haven't got to go just yet?

-Yes.

-I wish I was going too.

-What a lovely time we had last night!

-Didn't we? Goodbye, everybody.

-We've been ditched. Millie isn't coming.

-Rubbish! Of course she is.

-She isn't, Evelyn.

-Why not?

-Just another of her crushes. She's just like her mother.

-You don't mean that dancer fellow?

-Sandro Barucci.

-It's a lovely name, even if you don't like the rest of him.

-I'll talk to her.

-It won't do any good.

-Angela!

-Sandro, we were just talking about you.

-Somebody ought to drop you in a pond.

-It was Millie's idea staying on here, not mine.

-Then they ought to drop you in two ponds.

-Lyn, you should be grateful. It leaves you and Angela alone.

Now look here, Millie... Oh.

-Angela, let's go.

-Have a good time, darlings.

-Goodbye, Millie.

-Au revoir, Angela. We shall meet again.

-Bye, everybody!

-Goodbye.

-Goodbye, Angela.

-Hey, Sandro, I thought you said those flowers were for me.

-Hmm?

-For you, orchids.

-Where are they?

There you are. Soon be there. Bear up a little longer.

How very unromantic! I thought you liked it.

-I do enormously, but I don't want to run into anything.

-You shouldn't have such a comfortable shoulder.

-You think I'm a bit of a responsibility?

-A nice one, but I'm taking no risks.

-Is that why they put you in the Diplomatic Service?

-Of course.

I wonder why I like you so much.

You're not at all the sort of person I should expect to like.

-Did you wire about our rooms?

-Yes, Hotel Barbarelli with baths.

-I hope they've got a good swing band.

-Band? Aren't you supposed to be tired?

-I'm never too tired to dance.

-I wonder if I take after Maddalena?

-Who?

-My fond mama.

Can you imagine the glorious time we'll have? Dances, parties, theatres?

-Perhaps she isn't that kind of mother.

-What a terrifying thought!

-It would give someone else the chance to take you about.

-You, for instance?

-If there isn't too much competition.

-I dare say there will be.

-Now you listen to me...

-No, I'm much too tired.

Oh, don't bother with that thing. Ask somebody.

Excuse me. Could you direct me to the Hotel Barbarelli?

- I'm sorry. I don't live here. - Oh. Thanks.

Excuse me!

Are you a stranger in these parts?

No. You are.

We're looking for the Hotel Barbarelli.

You go straight down the road for about 200 yards, then you turn left.

Not the first turning or the second, the third. By the statue.

-Then after that...

-All right, thanks. We'll find it somehow.

DOORBELL RINGS

Never mind, I'll go. Yes, yes, I'm coming. Can't you hear? I'm coming!

-Good afternoon, Tessa.

-Oh, Dr Ackroyd, I didn't know it was you.

-Mr Labardi phoned for me.

-I know.

- My dear Charles, how nice of you. - She didn't sleep much. Overexcited with Miss Angela coming home.

Thank you, Tessa. I'll tell him.

-I was in and out of her room a dozen times.

-I don't expect there's much the matter.

-You're wrong, Doctor.

- When I took in her coffee... - All right, Tessa, all right.

-How thoughtful of you!

-Flowers are often the best medicine.

-I believe you're almost as fond of her as I am.

-Fonder.

Come and tell her that. It'll cheer her up.

-Wait a minute. Have you heard from Angela?

-Not yet.

-Indirectly, I have. From Mrs Fiske.

-That scatterbrained daughter of hers dropped off at Cannes and left Angela to come on alone.

-Giuseppe!

-I thought you were in the drawing room.

-It isn't true?

-Good job too.

-Millie Fiske is the last person I'd want in a car.

-Angela's alone.

-It'll teach her to be independent. All this coddling's out of date.

-Of course it is.

-Take her along with you, Charles. I'll get some cocktails.

-We'll drink to the return of the prodigal.

I brought you these.

-You're very kind.

-You're very silly.

Jumping at shadows, looking for dangers where they don't exist.

I sometimes wonder what we get from religion if it isn't faith.

-Angela is little more than a child.

-In England, girls are used to going about alone.

From what Giuseppe tells me, your daughter can look after herself.

You don't know the things that can happen. Awful things.

What kind of things?

You'll be making a mistake if you expect Angela to behave like a girl from a convent.

-It's an unconventional age. Whether we like it or not, it's the age we live in.

-Why tell me all this?

Because I hope that you and your daughter are going to be friends and confidantes.

-Not just to live together, but to be together.

-DOORBELL RINGS

Oh, that bell keeps on ringing!

All right, Tessa, I'll take it.

Give the boy ten lire.

Ten lire? Just for ringing a bell!

-Here we are, news at last.

-From Angela?

-Mm-hm.

-"Stopped night at Florence. Arriving about six with Evelyn. Love, Angela."

-Evelyn?

-She's a new one on me.

No need to worry now. She's found another girl to come with her.

-What time was it handed in?

-11.45. I could have walked it in the time.

-She ought to be here at any moment.

-By Jove, you're right.

I think I'll put these flowers in her room.

This merits a long procession of quick ones.

Happy days.

BRAKES SCREECH

Angela!

-Daddy!

-Angela, my dear.

Now go and kiss your mother.

It isn't possible.

Nobody could be so lovely.

Mummy darling!

I wouldn't have known you.

I adore the new house. It's grand to be really home at last.

Millie got stuck on a man and ditched us at Cannes, so Evelyn and I had to come on alone.

We stopped the night in Florence and spent an hour in the art gallery before coming here.

Of course, you don't know Evelyn! Wait while I give him a shout. He's wrestling with the suitcases.

Oh, Lyn!

Did she say "he"?

-"She".

-It sounded like "he".

-Drops her S's, I should think.

He's coming.

What's wrong...? Oh, my shorts. Couldn't wear anything else in this weather.

Very modest of you not to arrive in your bathing costume.

Here he is - Evelyn Penshurst!

Come and shake hands like a nice, little gentleman.

Reading from left to right, Daddy, Mummy

and a gentleman with a smile.

-Dr Charles Ackroyd, my dear.

-Doctor of music, I hope. Hot music.

-Angela!

-How are you, Doctor?

-I refuse to tell you.

-Quite right. She doesn't deserve it.

Tessa! Aren't you going to give me a kiss?

Bless her little heart. She hasn't forgotten!

Oh, come on, Evelyn. Don't stand there gaping.

Madame Labardi, I'm afraid our coming alone, you'll think...

We think nothing of the kind. Let's go and have a drink.

-It's your turn to do some talking.

-I'm so glad to have you with me. I can think of nothing to say.

You must be very tired. Go up to your room and rest. I'll bring you up some milk.

Milk? Rest? Darling, I'm not still in the nursery, you know.

-This is more in our line, isn't it, Lyn?

-Angela!

-That's a cocktail!

-I should hope so too with a father in the wine trade.

-Mother doesn't like me to drink anything stronger than cough mixture.

-Tell us about yourself.

-He's very...

-I'd like to if Angela would let me get a word in edgeways.

He's fairly civilised. He's kind to animals and old people.

-He's a rising light in the Diplomatic Service.

-For the Lord's sake, put a sock in it!

It must seem very unconventional, Angela and I finishing our journey alone. But we had no choice.

-That doesn't excuse you locking my room and sleeping with the key under your pillow.

-That's an absolute lie.

I applaud the action. She ought to be permanently under lock and key.

- I'll be getting along. - Where are you staying?

- The embassy. - Why not dine with us?

I've promised to feed with some old friends - the Logans. You know them?

No.

-If I haven't made too ghastly an impression, perhaps you'll let Angela dine with me some night?

-Hey!

What are you talking about? I don't have to ask permission.

Well, goodbye.

-Thanks for the buggy ride.

-You'd better see him off, my dear.

-I suppose I'd better.

-Goodbye, Madame Labardi. Goodbye, sir.

-Come on!

Well, Maddalena...

Shall we take a turn in the garden?

-It has been fun.

-Tremendous fun.

Have you enjoyed being with me as much as I've enjoyed being with you?

-I don't know how much you've enjoyed being with me.

-More than I've ever enjoyed being with anyone.

As this conversation might never end, I'll carry Angela off to her room.

- Yes, of course. Goodbye, sir. - Goodbye.

Goodbye. See you again soon.

Oh, Daddy, darling, it's a dream!

Yes, but you must thank your mother. It's all her doing.

Oh, Mummy is sweet. She's thought of everything.

You know, Angela, your homecoming means more than you imagine to her.

Have I been a success?

Well, we live a very quiet life here.

-You are like a gust of fresh air.

-Isn't that a good thing?

A breath, yes. But you're rather a gust, you know.

You don't mean I've hurt her?

No. She just needs time to realise how different you are from the little girl she used to know.

-But I was sent away to be different, wasn't I?

-Of course.

There's nothing to pull down the corners of your mouth about.

She'll fall into your ways and you into hers, but do it gently, darling.

All right.

I know it's only high spirits, but all my life I've tried to avoid the world.

-Now it seems to have rushed in on me.

-Develop the other side of your nature to meet it.

-I have no other side. What I am...

-GARDENER HUMS ROMANTIC TUNE

-..I am.

-Yes, but it should be possible...

-Oh!

-What's the matter, Maddalena?

Oh, Mummy, my room's lovely!

What's wrong? Is she ill?

I don't like it.

It isn't natural.

Here you are.

There's something on her mind, Giuseppe.

A shadow on her mind.

-What is it?

-Oh, just nerves. She's as nervous as a kitten.

Yes, but why?

She loves you, she loves her daughter, she has a hundred useful interests in life, and yet...

Something seems to be haunting her.

-Some...

-Between ourselves, she's often been like this.

-Often?

-Mm-hm.

-When did you first notice it?

-Soon after we were married.

-You were living in Florence then, weren't you?

-Yes.

We moved to Rome as I felt a change of environment might do her good.

-Did you consult any doctors in Florence?

-Yes, several.

Who were they?

My dear fellow, I'm a perfect fool about names.

What did they say about her?

Oh... The usual thing.

Plenty of care and rest. It's so long ago, I...

Giuseppe, why didn't she go to England with you to see Angela?

Charles, as a friend, there are questions which I... which I beg you not to ask.

But I came here today as a doctor.

And I've told you all I can.

SWING MUSIC

-DOOR OPENS

-Darling!

-I wondered where the music was coming from.

-I'm sorry, Mummy.

-Did it disturb you?

-Not a bit.

-I'm glad to see you happy.

-Oh, you are a pip.

Such a change. I wouldn't have believed it possible.

Darling, those things...

You've hardly anything on.

Now, Mummy, you listen to me.

Woollies, mufflers, body belts and gaiters are things of the past.

-Can you remember that?

-Yes, but...

-No, let me go on.

Fresh air is a tonic and freedom the finest thing in the world.

Yes, dear, I know, but this isn't London.

You see, here we lead a very quiet life.

Perhaps before very long, suitable young men will call and they'll expect to find you...

A nice, little, tame mouse!

Yes, I know, dear. But I'm not a tame mouse.

-And you're not going to be a tame mouse either.

-Ah...

-You're young and attractive enough to have a wonderful time. I'll see you get it.

-But I'm quite content.

You've got no right to be content at your age. I'm going to take you in hand.

My education's finished. Yours is just beginning.

Now, let me see...

Now, isn't this charming, Madame Labardi?

Oyster pink is such a wonderful colour for you.

Yes, it's very lovely, but it's not quite what I wanted for Mummy.

Mummy wants something a little more sophisticated.

-Do I?

-Yes, of course. That's the whole idea.

I prefer this one myself.

-It's very attractive, but it isn't quite what we want.

-Madame, it's very smart...

< It's the most frightful garment I ever saw. Take it away and never bring it near me.

It looks like something that the cat might have brought in.

I wouldn't be seen dead in it. It makes me look peculiar.

-Mummy, you are peculiar.

-Whether I am or not, I refuse to wear it.

-C'est parfait for Madame's waistline.

-Refer to my waistline at your peril!

Never in the whole of my life have I seen such an atrocity!

I demand to see... Why, if it isn't Madame Labardi! I didn't realise anyone was here.

Hello, Angela dear. How are you, my dear? How nice to see you at a show like this!

That's the sort of thing I should wear.

It would be warmer for you, wouldn't it?

I've rather an elusive line. It's never the same for two weeks on end.

It has an extraordinary resemblance to my late husband - here today and gone tomorrow.

It's nearly three years since he made me divorce him.

-We had a lovely time. Sandro taught me all the latest steps.

-I'll bet!

I don't know whether you do or are or have contemplated a divorce, but I wouldn't.

They cost a lot of money and are not nearly as good as they're painted.

If you don't mind, I really must be going.

-What's that for?

-Gratitude.

-You're coming out into a new world. Angela's world.

-I suppose I am.

-Because it's warm and friendly and natural, you're going to like it.

-I hope so.

SHE STARTS PLAYING PIANO Nice, my dear. You haven't played that for a long time.

-Mummy looks lovely in that new dress.

-She always looks lovely, even without your unholy influence.

I have only one suggestion. Why don't you wear that old Cellini pendant?

-For the good and sufficient reason that it was stolen from our house in Florence.

-Stolen? You never told me.

-Was anything else taken?

-Practically all her jewellery.

-Didn't the police do anything?

-No. Besides, I was very anxious about your mother's health, which was far more important.

-Yes, but...

In any case, I'm well enough off to buy you or your mother any jewellery you may want.

PLAYS GENTLE CLASSICAL PIECE

MUSIC BECOMES LIVELIER

STOPS PLAYING

STARTS PLAYING GENTLE PIECE

Why didn't you tell me you'd been so ill, darling?

I didn't want to frighten you.

-That's why she never came with me when you were in England.

-I see.

Charles?

Thanks.

Doctor, she didn't write to me once for a whole year.

-What was the matter with her, Daddy?

-Oh, just nerves. Nothing serious.

-An attack of nerves that lasted a whole year must have been serious.

-You must ask Dr Ackroyd about that.

-He was attending her.

-Oh? I didn't know you attended Mummy in Florence.

Oh, you poor pet.

What form did the illness take? Sleepwalking, loss of memory or what? Is it likely to come on again?

SUDDEN STRIDENT NOTES

Steady, darling, steady. Of course it's not likely to come on again.

-I'm sorry, but I couldn't possibly know.

-I'm a little tired. I think I'll go to my room.

-You go along with her, Angela.

-Oh, Mummy!

Why did you say I attended Maddalena in Florence when I knew neither of you at the time?

To stop awkward questions. Any talk of her illness upsets her.

Obviously, but why? What was wrong with her?

-Do you mind if we drop the subject?

-Yes, I do mind. I want to help.

As a friend, if not as a doctor.

Won't you tell me?

-Have a drink?

-Then you won't.

I was hoping to bring Mummy here and teach her dancing. I'm afraid that's all off. For the time being anyway.

How very disappointing. That means we'll have to be alone.

-If you can bear it.

-I'll have a darn good try.

-I haven't had you to myself once since we arrived in Rome.

-Well, you have now, haven't you?

Angela, this takes a bit of saying, but...

Yoo-hoo! Angela!

Well, you two do tuck yourselves away.

-I hope we're not butting in.

-Not in the least.

-That's good.

-Still being diplomatic, Evelyn?

Trying to be.

What have you been doing to Evelyn? He's as bristly as a hairbrush.

-You notice I hurried to Rome?

-Weren't you earning enough money in Cannes?

Oh, I got bored with Cannes. Anyway, what is money?

What a lovely, slender wrist you have!

Sandro, I'll dance.

-Doesn't that fellow know when he's not wanted?

-Sandro's all right. He's a wonderful dancer.

-I suppose that makes up for everything.

-Quite a lot.

-You'd better ask him to your birthday party on the 16th.

-I'm going to.

Oh, I shan't get much of a look in then, shall I?

I'll try and keep you the supper dance.

What a pity I haven't a girlfriend!

Perhaps you can find one between now and then.

That's an idea. I think I could.

-You can?

-Yes.

Nesta.

Who's Nesta?

Oh, we've known each other since we were so high.

-I'd love to ask her if you really mean it?

-Oh, do, by all means!

-Nesta!

-Stop it! Stop doing that, Jimmy Logan, while I'm c-cooking for a guest.

Evelyn isn't a guest. He's been here every day for two weeks.

I wish he'd talk about something else. It's Angela all the time.

-Or her mother.

-If she's so beautiful, I'd give my eye teeth to paint her.

-You'd have to use stained glass.

-No, I see her in blue velvet and a tin halo.

-S-Stop doing that!

-Not until you stop stammering.

-I c-can't when you're making love to me.

-KNOCK AT DOOR

-Hello there!

Hello, you two.

Hmm, that smells grand, Nesta! Are these any good to you?

How lovely! Q-Quite the little Santa Claus, isn't he? Put those on the table, Jimmy.

-What's she gibbering like that for?

-Well...

-If you tell him, I'll k-kill you!

Lunch won't be long. Have a cigarette.

This is pretty good. Yes, I like it.

It's tripe really, but it's tripe that appeals to summer visitors.

-How are you settling down?

-Fine. I like Rome. I'm having the time of my life.

-I bet you are!

-Here it is.

-Nesta, would you and Jimmy like to come to a party with me on Thursday?

-No, I don't think so. It's not quite our cup of tea.

-No, Jimmy's got some work to do.

We're off to Florence on Friday. He's doing some pictures for a New York dealer. What's the party about?

-It's Angela's birthday. Quite a slap-up affair.

-If it means meeting her mother, we'll be there.

-I have to get my one evening dress out of pawn.

-You'll meet Angela.

-Are you engaged yet?

-Not officially.

But you l-love her very much?

JIMMY LAUGHS What's the joke?

-She can't even mention love without stammering.

-Beast!

Orchids, how lovely! If I ever marry, I hope my husband will be as attentive as you are.

-The signs are very promising. Is your mother dressed yet?

-I don't know, but Tessa says it's come off.

-What's come off?

-The new gown I persuaded her to wear.

-What is she going to wear?

-The new gown!

-Then it hasn't come off. It's going on. I don't understand half the things you say!

-Oh, Daddy!

There's to be no nonsense. If you feel the least bit tired, up to bed you come, whatever anybody says.

Don't fuss, Tessa. I shall be perfectly all right.

-KNOCK AT DOOR

-Who is it?

It's only me.

Well, now, that's something like!

I've told her it's straight to bed if she feels tired.

Get along with you! You're a menace.

They're lovely.

And so are you.

Do you really want me to go down looking like this?

I insist. There won't be a woman in Rome to hold a candle to you.

You're so good to me, Giuseppe.

I love you very, very much.

And I you, my dear.

I often think I'm the luckiest woman in the world.

Never let me go, Giuseppe. Never let me go.

-KNOCK AT DOOR

-May I come in?

Oh, Mummy! How wonderful you look!

Any hopes you had, young woman, of being the centre of attraction have gone with the wind.

-Stop staring at me, you two. You're making me embarrassed.

-I'm off to give the band a drink.

-This is for you.

-What is it?

-A present for being so sweet to me.

-Darling, you shouldn't do these things.

-Well, I must fly.

How beautiful! They must be very old.

Like the peasant women used to wear.

Yes.

Like the peasant women used to wear.

Mother of God, why do you look like that?

-Like what?

-A different person.

Someone I've never seen before.

Take them away, Tessa.

Put them in my jewel box.

WALTZ MUSIC

MUSIC STOPS

APPLAUSE

My dear, what a transformation! You've stepped out of one century into another.

-I'm not sure I feel comfortable in the new one.

-You feel uncomfortable when you look as I do.

-Had I your figure, I'd run naked through the hemlock.

-It would be a very moving spectacle.

-Have you brought Millie with you?

-No, but she'll be here soon. She wouldn't go out with her own mother.

I think your wife's the loveliest person I've ever seen in my life.

As compliments are flying, Mrs Logan, may I say how very charming you are in that frock?

I'm glad. It was a pair of curtains yesterday.

My husband's longing to meet her, but I can't find him in this crowd.

Oh, there's Nesta. Come along, Angela. I want you to meet her.

That's my daughter.

Hello, sir.

-Nesta, this is Angela.

-How do you do?

See you all later.

-I'm so glad you were able to come.

-It was very sweet of you to ask us.

Not at all, but I'm sure you two would rather dance than talk to me.

-I think I'd rather look for Jimmy.

-Who's Jimmy?

Her husband, darling, and they're depressingly fond of each other.

-You never told me she had a husband.

-He's one of my oldest friends.

My dance, I think.

-Is it?

-Of course not. It's mine.

Hey! You're going the wrong way.

No, I'm sure they're not.

-At last I've got you.

-How do you mean, got me?

-To myself, of course.

Why, so you have. What happens next?

The most important moment of my life.

Oh, I'm glad to be present for that.

-It couldn't very well have been otherwise.

-That's lucky, isn't it?

It's more than lucky. It's...

Darling, will you have the ring before you say yes or say yes before you have the ring?

-What ring?

-This one.

Oh, darling!

Well?

I think I'd like to say yes and have the ring

and have you kiss me all at the same time.

I don't believe it's true.

-Neither do I.

-How do you feel?

-Dizzy.

-Me too.

-Sit down if you're tired.

-I'm not tired.

-Shall we dance then?

-Hello, Mrs Logan. Haven't you a partner?

-Yes, but I can't see him.

-Perhaps we can find him for you.

-Please don't bother. He's sure to turn up, he always does.

-Ah, there you are!

-Oh, hello.

That was frightfully rude. You just passed Madame Labardi without saying a word to her.

Did I? I've been trying to catch a glimpse of her all evening!

Hello, Jimmy. I want you to meet my future wife.

- Jimmy Logan, Angela Labardi. - You're very lucky. How do you do?

-Congratulations to you both.

-Thank you. We're going to tell Mummy. Have you seen her?

-Nearly.

-She went towards the drawing room.

-Come on, Evelyn.

-See you later.

If we're to catch the morning train to Florence, we'd better slip away.

Oh, Mummy! Evelyn's asked me and I said yes and he gave me this and now I want to tell everybody!

Angela!

Darling!

Hello, you two. I thought you were never coming. >

The best people are always late.

Who is that?

That's the dancing partner of Millie Fiske's - Sandro Barucci.

Sandro...Barucci.

Mummy!

I think she'll be all right. The pulse is normal and she's sleeping peacefully.

-I'd advise you all to leave her.

-Leave her lying there alone?

-Yes, I'd rather she wasn't disturbed.

I should let her sleep until the morning.

'But I don't want to get married.

'You don't know the things that can happen. The awful things.

'All my life I've tried to avoid the world

'and now it's rushed in on me.

'What form did the illness take, Doctor? Is it likely to come on again?

'Never let me go, Giuseppe. Never let me go.

'Rosanna... Rosanna...

'Rosanna!'

Oh!

CLOCK CHIMES

Florence.

-Return?

-No return.

Oh! Oh!

Oh! Oh! Oh!

Oh, sir! Quickly!

What is it? What's the matter?

What are you shouting for?

Maddalena? Where is she?

It's happened again. She's gone.

Just like she did the last time.

And look, her jewel case!

What is all this shindy about?

-Why, where's Mummy?

-She's gone.

-Gone?

-This happened before, Angela.

-Daddy...

I lost her for a whole year.

Ah!

The seven moons.

-Well, here's where I leave you.

-I wonder why artists always choose the worst parts of a town?

The answer, my girl, is on the walls of every picture gallery in Europe.

CHILDREN SHOUTING

ARGUING

Get out of here! Get out, you scum!

Devils!

Are you going to be all day plucking that fowl?

Hey, mind what you're doing with those feathers!

Quite the duchess, aren't you, since Nino took you upstairs from the scullery?

-Stop flapping, you old fool!

-Well, you never know.

-You may soon be back again.

-That's what you think. Me, I'm not like the others. Where I am, I stay.

There's only one not like the others.

Rosanna.

When she left, they came and went.

Came and went. As you will.

Oh, shut up!

Rosanna!

Why has she come back?

ROMANTIC JINGLE PLAYS

< MAN WHISTLING ROMANTIC TUNE

HE STOPS WHISTLING

Rosanna!

Rosanna!

Nino!

You're not like the others, eh? Where you are, you stay!

-She can't do this to me.

-Get back to the scullery, you!

SHE SOBS

There seems to be a little trouble in the house over the way.

-Nino's woman has returned.

-The red-headed beauty who passed a few minutes ago?

-Yes, Rosanna.

-If I asked her very nicely, do you think she'd let me do a little sketch of her?

-You don't know Nino.

-Who's Nino? Never heard of him.

-He has a bad temper and he's very quick with a knife.

He can't murder me for being polite to a lady in public. There's no law against that, is there?

Here, Nino is the law.

I see.

Thanks.

I don't know what's happened to me.

No other woman would dare treat me the way you do - walking in and out of my life like it was an open door.

-You've never shut me out yet.

-No. More fool me perhaps.

I nearly went mad those last four years.

-Is it four years?

-Hmm.

What does time matter?

I only live when we're together.

It's the same for me too.

When you went away, I could have killed you.

-Could you kill me now, Nino?

-Yes.

No. No, the madness has passed.

Loving makes it easy to forgive.

It seems as if we've been dead for four years.

But we're alive now.

Both of us. Wonderfully alive.

But will it last?

Or shall I wake up to find you gone like a puff of smoke in the night?

Does it matter? Love like ours can't be measured by time.

-Nino, I've just remembered something.

-What?

-Look on the table.

What, this?

-Well, what is it?

-It's for you.

-Me?

Rosanna!

-You're pleased?

-Pleased?

-I believe they mean more to you than I do.

-Hmm?

HE LAUGHS LOUDLY

I love you when you laugh, Nino. It's like ice and fire. I love you when...

-Then this is the third time she's disappeared?

-Yes.

When did she first leave you?

A few days after our marriage.

She was, as you know, very young.

-A quarrel?

-Of course not. I didn't even know she was unhappy.

She stayed away how long?

-Six months.

-Tell me about the second time.

-It followed my sending Angela to England.

-Maddalena was against that?

-She wanted her to go to a convent.

-You quarrelled?

How could anyone quarrel with Maddalena?

No, she was hurt by my attitude.

She seemed to draw away, within herself.

And then as before, she disappeared?

And I blamed her for not writing to me.

When she returned, still no clue?

No.

She asked why the dust sheets were over the furniture.

And who had moved a vase of lilies that she had arranged that morning.

That morning was a year before.

Nothing to explain that symbol of seven moons?

Once in her sleep, she cried out, "Rosanna!

"Rosanna of the seven moons."

But apart from that and the marking on the mirror, nothing.

Then that's all we have to help us find her.

If we ever do.

I'll leave him with you.

Don't worry.

Angela! I came as soon as I could get away.

I don't know quite how to tell you this, but my chief's sending me back to England on a special job.

-Oh, Lyn! For how long?

-Two weeks. Three at most.

It would happen now, just when I need you. Father can't do anything.

-If Mother's to be found, it's up to us.

-That's what I was thinking.

I tell you what - why not advertise for some of that jewellery?

-The Cellini pendant, for instance.

-That's a grand idea.

-I'll advertise in every newspaper in Italy.

-I'll take a plane back as soon as I'm through.

Yes, please do. I'm going to need you.

When you do, I'll be there.

Don't worry too much, darling. It'll all work out.

-Nine on the ten, Nino.

-Right.

-He's coming out.

-Yes, he's coming out.

We're all here, Nino.

-Six on the five.

-Hmm.

Are we going to hang about while he plays cards with himself?

Nino's the best judge of that.

-I came here to say something and I'm going to say it now.

-Since when were you made spokesman?

What's it matter who's spokesman as long as it gets itself said?

We're not satisfied, Nino.

Love's young dream is all very well so long as it doesn't interfere with business.

It's her that keeps him here. He's afraid to let her out of his sight in case he loses her again.

Vittoria, come here.

What are you whispering about?

I was saying you were all right.

You forgot to make the bed this morning.

Go and do it.

Bed! That's about all you're fit for!

All right, Scorpi, let's have it.

Well, I've been thinking.

We stood by you solid in the past, but things are different since she came back.

While you worked with the rest of us, there was no complaint, even if your share was bigger than ours,

but we're not satisfied to do all the work while you sit at home, smelling roses.

HE CHUCKLES

You're doing fine, Scorpi. Go on.

I've said all I want to say.

You've said all you want to say, huh?

Are you sure?

You know, you're a useful fellow, Scorpi.

In some ways.

Many's the time our Scorpi's hands have been a great help,

but Scorpi thinking, Scorpi using his head?

It doesn't make sense somehow.

Wait a minute. I'm wrong.

He did use his head once.

As a battering ram.

Don't misunderstand me. I like you.

I like you a lot.

But you stick to using those and don't use that.

Nino!

That wasn't friendly!

Anyone else want to say anything?

All right, then.

Now you listen to me.

I've given up this small-time business. Purse here, brooch there. It's all you idiots are good for.

When Rosanna came back, she brought more sparklers than you've ever seen outside a jeweller's window.

That's the class of stuff we'll deal with in future - big stuff that's worth risking our necks for.

But where we get it and when we get it is my affair.

And you take your orders from me. Understood?

All right. Get out.

All of you.

Oh, Daddy. I hate to see you sitting here holding that cross Mother gave you and looking so unhappy.

I know, my dear. I'm sorry.

Why don't you go away for a complete change? On a cruise, perhaps?

-One doesn't escape sorrow by running away from it.

-No.

-A better idea would be for you to go away.

-Would you mind if I did?

Just for a little while? There's something I want to do. This morning I...

-Mrs Fiske called.

-Mrs Fiske? It was Millie I expected.

If you don't mind, I'll go for a stroll. Visitors just now...

-Did you tell him you had a letter about the Cellini pendant?

-I was just going to.

-Ah, there you are, my poor child.

-Take these into the house, please.

-I suppose there isn't any news?

-I'm afraid not.

-I'm desperately sorry.

-Is there anything I can do?

-As a matter of fact...

-Everybody says it's a secret,

but I shall never breathe a word. Now, tell me, why did she run away?

-We don't know.

-Oh, how very disappointing. I hoped for the truth from you.

-I've a bridge party this afternoon and it would have been so nice to...

-Did Millie get my message?

-Millie?

Oh, my Millie? She's gone to Monte Carlo to meet her ex-husband.

I mean, her ex-father, my ex-husband. We had a row over that awful Sandro,

but I paid him and sent him away and Millie's gone to console herself.

-I've traced a piece of my mother's jewellery. I wanted Millie to come to Florence.

-Did you? How nice.

-It may be a means of finding Mummy. Could you come with me?

-I? No!

I'm off tomorrow to meet a very dear friend, Mrs Brunswick. She's just got her divorce. It's a critical period.

-So I couldn't dream of going with you as I'll be at least a week away... Did you say Florence?

-Yes.

That's just where I'm going! What a small world. I'll pick you up in the morning.

-Pick it up and put it down properly.

-Don't be too hard on her.

She'll put powdered glass on my spaghetti instead of cheese!

-Vitrum's more in her line.

-She wouldn't go as far as that.

-Has old Bossi paid you yet for that jewellery?

-Not yet.

-It needs careful handling. I'm seeing him today.

-Has Rosanna told you where she got it from?

-Any business of yours?

-She takes such a nice interest in us(!)

-Perhaps you have a reason.

Perhaps you didn't steal it. Maybe somebody gave you it for something.

- Ah! - Hello!

Mother of mercy! Look who's here - Sandro!

-Sandro!

-Well, well, you old cow! It's good to see you again.

My son.

-My lovely boy!

-That's the sort of welcome to warm a man's heart.

Hello, Nino. So the police haven't nabbed you yet? Hello!

-Another wanderer come back to the fold.

-Look at him - silk next to the skin.

-A suit a prince would be proud of!

-Stop pawing me, Ma. Go and get me something to eat.

Food for my son, you cheap slut. The best in the house.

How's business, brother? Still content to pick up trifles in this backwater?

A bit above yourself, aren't you? Did you dance into society?

-You'd only get in through the window.

-Yes, but I'd bring out something to pay me for my trouble.

I've danced more money into my pocket than you'll ever see.

I was doing well with my last partner, then fell for her friend.

Ah! This is something like.

-Was the friend as impressed by you?

-I didn't get a chance.

-Who was she?

-Angela Labardi. If I had three wishes, she'd be in every one of them.

-I was all set to try my luck at her birthday party when her mother ruined everything.

-Jealous, perhaps.

I never met the woman. All I saw was her feet as they carried her upstairs.

And then she disappeared during the night.

Look out. This fellow mustn't see me.

I'm sorry.

-Phew! That was a near thing.

-Who was he?

-An English artist I met in Rome.

It would lower my stock if he found me in this rogues' gallery.

-I'll show him we don't want artists here.

-No, I will. You're too rough.

He'll give the quarter a bad name.

No, I don't remember ever seeing that pendant before.

-Mr Bossi, the lady was positive she bought it from you.

-She may.

Mine is a large business. I cannot remember things sold so long ago.

What I really want to know is where did you get it from?

It may have been an unredeemed pledge or perhaps an assistant bought it over the counter,

-but from whom it would be impossible to say.

-Then you won't help me?

My dear young lady, nothing would please me more, but what can I do?

Mr Bossi, I believe this pendant was stolen property.

In that case, you'd better apply to the police.

Good afternoon.

DOOR SLAMS

TAPPING

Ah.

-Well?

-Yes, yes, things are going quite nicely.

-We've disposed of some of them locally, but I'm still waiting to hear from Amsterdam...

-Come off it.

-I've heard all that before.

-It's no use being impatient. These things take time and I...

-Come on.

-Come on.

-Mm.

Oh, well... perhaps a little on account.

There.

Thanks.

How exciting. I never suspected you were a female Sherlock Holmes!

-It's a frightful cheek inflicting my troubles on you both, but I knew you wouldn't mind.

-Of course not.

-We're delighted, aren't we, Jimmy?

-Some of these would do well in New York.

-Whose idea was it to advertise?

-Lyn, but it seems to have led to a dead end.

-A bunch of beauties there have to be seen to be believed.

Never mind Jimmy. He talks to himself when he has a picture on his mind. What happened next?

Nothing. I showed him the pendant and he pretended to know nothing. I'm certain he was lying.

I say, this is rather good. Come and have a look.

Oh, Jimmy. What a pest you are!

Yes, you're a clever brute even if you do talk too much.

Heavens! Look!

-There goes our dinner.

-Never mind. Let's go out and get something we CAN eat. Come on, Angela.

-Haven't you any other clue?

-Yes, the Seven Moons.

-Let's have a look at this thing again.

-Here you are.

I copied it from the lipstick design Mother left on her mirror. And once in her sleep she spoke of Rosanna.

-Could it be the name of a place?

-That's what I'm counting on and why I'm in Florence.

-Wait. There isn't any proof that the Seven Moons is in Florence.

-Why say such a miserable thing?

-There isn't.

I know, but Mother spent most of her life here. It's worth trying.

-You can't wander round the slums without an escort.

-I was longing for you to say that.

-Very sweet of you,

-but it's the blind leading the blind.

-Well, I do know it a bit.

Angela! Excuse me.

-My dearest Angela.

-You know each other, don't you?

-What brought you to Florence?

-A perfectly ordinary train. You're mending a broken heart?

-Oh, Millie?

Don't mention that girl. It was a very lucky escape.

-Where are you staying?

-The Barbarelli with Mrs Fiske.

-That old cockatoo.

-She's very amusing about you.

Angela, we'd better see you home.

-Won't you let me do that?

-Yes, why not? You're just the man I want.

-You're always the one I want.

-Don't let's trouble Mr Barucci.

-It's no bother. He'd love to.

Good night. Thanks most awfully. I'll call on you in a day or two. Come on, Sandro.

Meeting you was a bit of luck.

-I don't like her going off with a nasty piece of work like that.

-Nor do I. Waiter - bill, please.

-Did you happen to notice that ring he was wearing?

-That big, black affair? Couldn't miss it. Why?

I have an idea I've seen it somewhere before. Quite recently.

Where?

That's just it. Where?

-Do you know Florence well?

-Like the back of my hand.

-How would you like to pilot me around?

-Angela!

-There's nothing I'd like better!

-Taxi!

-What did you do that for?

It's a guide I want, not a lover. To the Barbarelli.

Call for me tomorrow morning at the hotel. Good night.

-Who are you making yourself pretty for?

-Myself. I've no time for men.

Only one and he's out of reach,

even if he did amuse himself with you when there was nothing better.

-If you loved Nino, you wouldn't have left him.

-Who knows what I'd do?

-Even I don't.

-You only come back when you're tired of your other lover.

-Have I another lover?

Maybe.

Maybe not. I live in the present. The past and the future mean nothing to me.

-One day you'll go for good and Nino will want me again.

-As a drug to help him to forget.

But I'm the only woman who will ever mean anything to Nino. Whether I'm here or not, he'll always be mine.

Mine, do you understand? You'd better understand.

Yours now, Rosanna, but for how long? Men are all alike, you know.

Ever asked yourself what you'd do if you saw him in another woman's arms?

Don't be a little fool. I never shall.

But supposing you did. And he was kissing her face and her throat as he once kissed mine.

I'd kill him!

I'd kill them both.

But it isn't going to happen.

It couldn't happen.

ORGAN PLAYS IN CHAPEL

Are you all right?

-I know who you are. You're the English artist.

-Yes.

What are you doing here?

It was here Nino found me, years ago. I was lost. My mind was blank.

Found you? That accounts for it.

-Accounts for what?

-You struck me as different from the usual type of woman at the San Gimignano.

They're just beasts who love and hate and breed and die.

Are you married to this Nino?

-No. I belong to nobody but myself.

-Why were you looking at the church as if you were afraid to go in?

Nino hates churches.

So I hate them, too.

-Only fools pray.

-Hmm.

-Was Nino the one sitting with you at the cafe table, or the one who was drunk?

-Nino's never drunk.

That was his brother.

You ask too many questions. I'm going.

LATIN CHANT

ALTAR BOYS SING

Hold me up... Hold me up!

Don't let me kneel! You can't let me kneel!

ORGAN MUSIC PLAYS

-Oh, dear. There's an awful lot of Florence left.

-Why don't you tell me what you're trying to do?

-I'm trying to find my mother.

-I don't even know what she looks like.

-Do you know what this is?

Mother left that before she disappeared. I believe if I could trace that I could find her.

-Funny. This reminds me of something.

-What?

-I don't quite know.

-Think.

-Let me keep it. I'll have inquiries made.

-Here's something to go on with.

-Must you?

-No, if you'd rather...

-Well, perhaps... perhaps you're right.

-A present from your fiance?

-A birthday present from Father.

-If you were mine, I'd cover you with jewels.

-For the sake of your pocket, it's as well I'm not! Oh, there!

-Hm?

-A friend of yours - Mrs Fiske.

Ah, Angela. Come along, my dear. Mrs Brunswick is going to have all sorts of things done to her face.

-I'm ready. Call me when you get any news.

-All right. See you later.

Is there anything the matter with your hat that it doesn't come off?

If any cutting's to be done, I'm the one who'll do it.

-What's this drawing got to do with her mother's disappearance?

-Search me.

-Who cares one way or the other?

If she has all this jewellery, bring her after dark. If she can't find anything, we will.

-I want more than jewellery from Angela Labardi.

-Pleasure before business. What a Romeo the boy is!

Let's look at this paper, anyway.

What's the idea of pretending you don't know what it is? Look.

-Sign of the Seven Moons!

-I had it copied for Rosanna.

He doesn't even remember what's over his own front door.

How did the Labardi girl know about this place? I don't like it.

-She's just making a fool of him.

-No woman can make a fool out of me, not even you.

-Oh, shut up.

-Has she ever been here?

-Of course not. She said her mother left that sign.

-Makes sense.

-I'm not sure I can't put this to good use.

-Wait a minute. We take no chances.

-Until I've thought it over, the girl is to be told nothing.

-Who says so?

-What I choose to do with Angela Labardi is my business.

-Be careful, Brother.

-Of what?

You run your show and I'll run mine.

I've been trying to get Angela off the beaten track for days.

Now the chance has been given me. On a plate.

-Sympathy's all very well, Charles, but I've had more than I can stand.

-Yes.

-It's always the same thing.

Letters, telephone calls, flowers as if she were dead.

People stop me in the street and ask me if I have any news.

Even at my club there's no escape.

It's ungenerous of me to talk like this, but only one person's sympathy meant anything and she's gone.

-So I'm clearing out, Charles.

-Where are you going?

-Back to Florence.

-I'm opening up our old house there. I wired Angela this morning.

-Is Florence wise?

-Isn't it better to escape from memories?

-It's there she came back to me before. Twice before.

-I see.

I wouldn't like her to find an empty house.

-I want to talk to you.

-They hold up their hands like children at prayer.

-Who?

-Those spires, rising out of the ugliness into the sky.

Stop mooning about and listen. What do you know about the name Labardi?

It's the girl's name. Sandro's girl.

-Is that all you know?

-Yes, that's all.

-Why don't you admit the jewels you brought belonged to Labardi?

-Did they? I don't know where I got them.

-Well, I do.

Bossi told me and he's no fool. That pearl necklace was bought by Labardi three years ago in Genoa!

He's traced other pieces of his. But what I want to know is this -

how did you get those jewels from the Labardi house?

How did you get them? Look at me and answer... Rosanna!

Rosanna. Rosanna...

Why are you staring at me?

But...what was the matter with you?

I went on a journey.

Somebody was calling from a long way off.

-There's no one here but ourselves. It was I who called.

-Oh?

There's no one here but ourselves?

-I don't know what it could have been!

-Hey, wait a minute!

Is this a trick?

-A trick?

-To avoid answering my questions.

-I don't remember any questions.

-I was standing by the window...

-Where do you go when you leave me?

I can't tell you!

-I don't remember.

-Tonight you're going to tell me.

I can't tell you, Nino! All that I've had to give I've given you - love, money, everything!

Except the truth about where you go!

I tell you, I don't know! And if that isn't enough, I'll clear out!

-No, Rosanna...

-Then stop asking! Stop asking, will you?!

-Huh...

-What?

-Huh!

Oh, a telegram.

-It's from Father. He won't arrive until after dinner.

-I'd hope not.

With none of the linen and only half of the silver unpacked? He'd get a piece of my mind!

Oh, dear. Sounds very indigestible.

-PHONE RINGS

-I'll answer it.

Hello?

Who?

Oh, Mrs Fiske!

Yes? Yes, I just heard. He's coming after dinner.

Thank you very much, but I couldn't. The whole place is in a turmoil.

I quite understand, but you mustn't starve yourself.

You promised to dine with me tomorrow. It's carnival night.

Right you are. I'll be there.

-BELL

-Oh, dear. There's the front door. I must go. Goodbye.

There's a Mr Barucci to see you. He says it's important.

-Hello!

-Sandro! All right, Tessa.

-How on earth did you find me here?

-They told me at the hotel.

-Our search is near the end.

-You found the Seven Moons?

-No, but I know a man who knows where it is.

-Where?

It's not quite as easy as that. He says it's in rather a bad quarter.

-I don't care where it is. Take me. I'll go now.

-Not now, but soon.

This man's on the run. He never goes out except at night. Unlike myself, he isn't doing it entirely for love.

-Well, how much does he want?

-I suggested 10,000 lire.

-That's OK.

Well...

-As a matter of fact, he asked for more.

-I don't mind!

Very well. I'll try to get in touch with him as soon as I can.

-You'll come any time I send for you?

-Of course.

-Tomorrow, if it can be arranged?

-Of course.

-Can I get you by phone?

-Tonight, yes, but tomorrow I'm dining with Mrs Fiske.

-Good.

If not here, there.

-I hope that neither of us will be disappointed.

-Oh, Sandro...ask him if he's ever heard of Rosanna.

-Why should I ask him that?

-I believe someone called Rosanna has something to do with Mother's disappearance.

If I hear anything, I'll...let you know. Goodbye.

Goodbye.

-Is that clear? Scorpi?

-Yes.

-Tabalo? Maccho?

-Yes.

The job's tomorrow. Carnival night. Just after twelve.

-To fool the police, we all wear the same costumes. Understood?

-We all know the Labardi house, Nino,

-but is there anything in it? It's been empty.

-It's not now. That's all.

Nino!

-What do you want?

-You and no listeners.

-How do you like the new set-up?

-Better if I knew how we get in.

-Easy. We use that thick head of yours as a battering ram.

-Why, you!

-Don't be a blind fool. She knows Rosanna is mixed up in her mother's disappearance!

-It's a lie!

-Rosanna had never even heard the name Labardi.

-So she says!

There's not much mystery now why Madame Labardi left her husband.

There was another woman. The thing's as clear as day.

Rosanna didn't steal those jewels. Labardi gave them to her. And he didn't give them to her for nothing.

-If that's true...

-You know it's true.

There's a change in the plan.

I'm going into the Labardi house alone. I have a private reckoning with Labardi.

When that's settled, the rest is yours and I want no part of it.

Well? What are you waiting for? You've had your orders. Get out!

Get out!

Sandro...

If you want to bring that girl here, I won't stop you.

-You can work in with us.

-But if she sees Rosanna...

She won't see Rosanna or any other woman here tomorrow night.

Right.

Well, you're done for. One rat less in the world.

What is it, my son?

You have murder in your eyes.

What is it, Nino?

She's broken my heart, that's all.

-Rosanna?

-All those years she was lost to me she spent with another man.

-Didn't you spend them with other women?

-It was her I loved.

And you doubt her love for you?

Of course, he was a gentleman. Rich. He gave her jewels, money.

-I...

-Yet in spite of that she came back to you.

Fair's fair, my son.

I have no great love for Rosanna,

but I had a gypsy mother and I have enough clear bright in my veins to know the true from the false.

I'd trust her love for you before all the proof in the world.

If she loves me, Mother, why did she leave me?

Who am I to say?

Rosanna is a mystery, always was.

-I doubt that even she could solve it.

-She says she doesn't know.

Can't remember.

Isn't that your answer?

Maybe there's a wondrous curse on the girl,

a call she has to answer.

A call?

Somebody...calling, she said, from a long way off.

Isn't that where your vengeance lies?

Yes...

Yes!

Mother, I... I want to believe in her. I must!

Without her I'm lost.

Then take those knives out of your eyes, my son.

Or it's in your own heart you'll be driving them.

What am I to do, Mother? What am I to do?

Take her away somewhere for a little while.

Be alone.

And you will see.

-Wondering where we are?

-Yes, I...

-The last time we were here, we came through that gap in the wall.

-Nino! It's the old garden.

-So you hadn't forgotten?

But everything's so changed. The grass and the trees are taller.

-It seems so deserted.

-Deserted and forgotten.

Like a man whose woman has left him.

Look, it was here I picked you a rose and had to stoop for it.

Now they're above our heads! Lift me up, Nino.

Never let me go again, Nino.

Never let me go again.

Why should you go? Why did you ever go?

Rosanna...why did you leave me?

I don't know.

I know I never wanted to.

Well...after tonight there will no longer be any reason to leave.

-Why do you say after tonight?

-I have to deal with...something that has stood in our paths too long.

-You're going into danger.

-Maybe.

-What kind of danger?

-It's best you shouldn't know.

-I shall go with you.

-No!

Stay in your room until I return.

-Things will be going on you're best out of.

-If you don't come back...

Oh, I shall come back.

-If you're not waiting...

-I promise.

Don't look so worried. Smile for me.

Come on, smile.

That's better.

Nino, play our song for me.

Hello!

What are you doing here?

HE STRUMS

# Rosanna

# Lovely rose of my heart

# Rosanna

# Must we meet but to part?

# This love I feel just for you

# Is as real as the stars that shine

# You hold a spell

# For your eyes never tell me you're really mine

# Rosanna

# When I dream you are near

# Rosanna

# Like a dream you appear

# I know the kiss of a will of the wisp

# 'Til my heart has flown

# You're gone

# And I'm alone... #

What is it? What's the matter?

You're trembling!

Something cold went past me.

The ghost of this old garden, perhaps.

There are no ghosts in this garden.

Oh, yes, there are.

The great ladies and gentlemen who used to walk here when the beds were bright with flowers.

Mm, well, that's all very fine, but I much prefer it this way.

Oh, so do I because it's so wild.

It's broken the shackles that once made it neat and tidy.

-Oh, Nino, why can't we stay here forever?

-I wish we could.

But there's work to be done.

-We'll come back another day.

-Shall we? How can we be sure?

For all we know, this may be the last time we shall ever lie here...

Don't talk like that! Don't say such things! If you love me...

-I do love you, Nino.

-If only I could believe that.

Now can you believe me?

And that's the explanation, Giuseppe. It must be. It answers everything.

You're asking me to believe that Maddalena has a dual personality?

-That she's living two separate lives?

-Yes.

And in the one she has no knowledge of the other.

We know very little of the workings of the human mind. You see, something happened to split her mind in two.

-It may have been a shock during her childhood. It was always after a period of mental strain.

-True.

When things became too much for her, she broke away from all ties, all mental torments,

and took refuge in her other self.

A door in her mind closed and another opened.

MUSIC AND CHEERING

Well, how do I look?

-Wonderful! I thought there was something you had to do.

-There is.

Later on. I shall do it none the worse for wearing this costume.

Well, wish me luck.

Don't forget your promise.

I'll wait here until you come back. Aren't you going to kiss me goodbye?

-Sandro, any news?

-He'll see us if we come at once.

-Wonderful.

-But I'm just going to have dinner.

-We must hurry.

-What about Mrs Fiske?

-Can't you say you got a message that Nesta Logan is ill?

-I suppose.

I'll tell the reception clerk to give her the message.

Why, Nino, how wonderful you look.

-You needn't serve here tonight. Go out and enjoy yourself.

-Go with me. Think what fun we had before.

-Remember?

-Mm.

-Come with me.

-I have other things to do.

-Please...

-Go along. I don't want any women here tonight.

ECHO OF CHURCH SINGING

FESTIVE MUSIC

SINGING FROM CHAPEL

-What an awful place.

-It isn't very grand. There. Sit down, shall we?

-Well, where is the man?

-Doesn't seem to have arrived. I'll order wine.

-I'd rather have coffee.

-Waiter, bring me a cognac and some coffee for the lady.

-If I'd known it would be like this, I wouldn't have come.

-Don't worry.

I can look after you.

He said he'd be here at 10. Must have got held up by the procession.

Drink your coffee. Don't worry.

-Hello!

-I got back sooner than I expected.

-What's wrong with Nesta?

-Nothing.

-Why? Is there supposed to be?

-I can't make this out. Didn't you send a message to Angela saying you were ill?

-No.

But Mrs Fiske told me that... I can't understand it.

-Who delivered the message?

-A slim, dark bloke, they said.

-That sounds like Sandro Barucci.

-What the devil does he want, then?

She had some idea he might be able to help her locate her mother.

-I don't like it.

-You don't like him.

-I nearly punched his nose last time.

-Why didn't you?

-I didn't like the look of his knuckleduster.

-What?

-A ring like a lump of coal.

Good Lord, so that's who it was!

-Remember my telling you about that gang of cut-throats?

-Yes.

-Well, that's the fellow.

-Jimmy!

-Do you know where this was?

-Of course.

-Let's get a move on!

Good luck!

-What's he doing that for?

-He's shutting up.

Why doesn't the man come? I can't stand this waiting.

He won't be long now.

DRUNKEN LAUGHTER

LAUGHTER CONTINUES

Nice stuff, Sandro.

Come on, boys. Let's get out of it.

VITTORIA: Ever ask yourself what you'd do if you saw him in another woman's arms?

-NINO:

-Stay in your room 'til I return.

Things will be going on you're best out of.

And he was kissing her face and her throat, as he once kissed mine...

What do you want? Go on, get out!

Nino!

So that's what he meant.

I wouldn't be in so much of a hurry if I were you.

-Fool! You're not wanted in there.

-Take your hands off me!

I said you wouldn't last forever and I was right. You're finished! Nino's in there with another woman!

-I tell you, I saw them.

-You lying little...

Let me go!

Rosanna!

Sandro!

Rosanna!

Where is Maddalena?

What have you done with my mother?

Angela...

Mummy! Mummy, darling! Mummy!

Mummy...

Lyn!

-Come quickly.

-Angela!

-Mother is...!

-We'll look after her.

Get a doctor at once.

Dr Ackroyd's at Labardi's now. We must take her there straight away.

-Have you seen Nino?

-Yes, he went towards the square.

-Rosanna!

-What's happened?!

-Something awful!

Rosanna?

-Where's Rosanna?

-They took her to Labardi's.

-Labardi's!

You haven't much time. I'm afraid she won't last much longer.

Now, my dear child, are you ready to make your peace with God?

Yes, Father.

Dominus...

I've sinned so much, Father.

My child, you were in the dark. You couldn't see.

Now thank God for this good confession and for your holy penance say one Hail Mary

and make a good act of contrition.

Ego te absolvo a peccatis...

Corpus Domini nostri Jesu Christi...

HE GIVES COMMUNION

..in vitam aeternum. Amen.

ADMINISTERS LAST RITES

Jesus have mercy.

Lord have mercy upon her. THEY REPEAT

Lord have mercy upon her. Go forth, o Christian soul, out of this world,

in the name of God, the Father Almighty, who created thee...

A BELL TINKLES

Goodbye, Maddalena, my beloved wife.

The memory of our life together will always be with me.

I wish I'd made you happier.

Forgive me.