Tycoon

The roof falls down, walls fall down, the bottom falls...

Chico falls down.

Don't call me Chico. I am Johnny Monroe, best engineer around.

I build a railroad through the mountain. Dig!

-How about it, Johnny?

-Any time now.

I work all day and all night.

Scram! I, Johnny Monroe, will make the blast. Everything comes down.

Fire in the hole!

My head, my head! I'm hurt!

My head! I'm hurt!

-I'm hurt!

-Is he hurt?

-A scratch.

-I said not to play here when we're blasting.

-It's fixed.

-Take him to medico to be sure.

Chico, I ought to paddle your rump. What were you doing?

-I am the engineer.

-Engineer, eh?

A good engineer doesn't get men hurt. If he does, he has to be punished.

Step up here.

Now get outta here.

All of you!

-He hit your face.

-Yes, he used his fist because I am an engineer.

You, he would paddle your rump. You too.

Where's the second shot?

The slowest blaster in the Andes!

Just say when and duck your head.

All right. When.

Fire in the hole!

Here we come! When the last rock falls, drinks are on Johnny Monroe. Let's go, brothers.

Where are you going?

He promised us Tenango if we did it.

-And there it is.

-Tenango! Not this weekend.

-That's out.

-Out? Why?

Why?! You know why.

I'm meeting Alexander at the hotel. And with you guys in town... Oh!

Look, Johnny, if we don't get a lining that tunnel will come down.

I wanted to build a bridge over the river, remember?

-You bid in the tunnel.

-Because Alexander wanted it.

It's his money. We follow orders.

That comes in your department, Pop - specifications, money... Money! Did I say money?

We need - one, two, three, four - 500 pesos.

-No Tenango this weekend.

-No Tenango, no tunnel.

-No tunnel, no railroad.

No railroad, no pay. No pay, no Tenango.

-That brings us right back.

-Yep, we'll need 500 pesos.

Oh, Johnny! Oh!

100, 200, 250, 300...

No serenades under the mayor's balcony!

Oh, no. Those things only happen once.

400... And look, stay out of sight when I'm talking to Alexander.

-Sure, sure.

-450...

-He's plenty tough without you making it worse.

-Yeah.

-500.

-Thanks, Pop.

-And stay outta sight! I'll be in Tenango too, you know!

You agree there's no mention of a lining.

Sure. And I know why the engineer didn't include one.

It doesn't flake off until air hits it, and then...

You couldn't know this, but every shot kicks out a section of roof.

That may be just temporary.

-Drive on a few hundred yards. See if it changes.

-That sounds reasonable.

But not practical. To put in lining we need a bigger concrete plant. That'll take time.

-LAUGHTER AND MUSIC

-And money. My money. And I might add...the stockholders' money too.

What is the meaning of this?

-This is Sunday morning.

-Probably a party. It happens.

-Mr Matthews...

-It doesn't happen in Tenango!

-And I don't intend that it shall.

-Yes, Uncle.

Find the manager. Say I don't like it.

-You'd like it less if he didn't make money.

-The hotel does not make money.

I support it out of habit. The same is true of some of my relatives.

LATIN AMERICAN MUSIC PLAYS

-Find Hernandez.

-Shouldn't we reach a decision?

I'll reach a decision. Do as you're told.

Before we go further, Mr Matthews, have you told Monroe about Tenango?

There'll be no more of that nonsense.

They hit town last night, probably had a few drinks and went to bed.

I don't know what you're saying but you must be mad.

THEY SING DRUNKENLY

-Johnny...

-Hello, Ricky. Tell him I promised a party and this is it.

-Where's the dames and music?

-My uncle's on the warpath.

Better get out of sight.

Come to my office, Hernandez. I have something to say to you.

-I've got something to say to you.

-Save it.

I've had a massage and you still look like a shimmering landscape! Tell them. I need air.

Waiter.

CAR HORN BLASTS >

CHURCH ORGAN PLAYS IN BACKGROUND

Good morning.

Let's walk. I wanna talk to you guys.

Hey, look.

It's a habit from his childhood. Come on.

-See you, Ricky.

-Bye, Pop.

ORGAN PLAYS

CHORAL SINGING

SINGING CONTINUES

-Do you believe in love at first sight?

-No.

-Oh, hello, Ricky.

-She's my favourite cousin, Johnny.

-She is?

-I thought you should know, in case I have to shoot you.

-This is wrong.

-It's the custom, isn't it?

-Yes, but not this way.

-I'll introduce you.

-What's her name?

-Maura.

-This is not the time.

-Why not?

-Down here, we... All right, you'll see.

-This the window?

-Yeah.

THEY PLAY A SERENADE

I like this, it's cute. Back home I'd just punch that bell.

-Not that bell.

-Huh?

-What's the matter, Johnny?

-Frederick Alexander?

-THE Frederick Alexander.

-Oh!

Less than five families can walk through that doorway.

Unfortunately, Mr Monroe, you are not one of them.

-You could have told me that earlier.

-I tried but you wouldn't listen.

Let's get away before my uncle... Oh, hello, Maura.

Why, Ricky...

Oh!

Maura, dear, may I present Mr Monroe.

-He's working for your father.

-How do you do?

Well, I...I... Are you staying?

-Sure, I've come this far.

-I'll be back in ten minutes...for your body!

-Hey, Ricky.

-What?

-Can you use a band?

-No.

Vamoose.

-Hello.

-Hello.

I...I'm not very good on my feet.

And when you sit you fall asleep.

Oh, you remembered.

Maybe I should have kept the guitars. Balcony scenes confuse me.

-Next time bring your Shakespeare.

-Next time? What happens this time?

I've used two of my ten minutes.

If I let you sit, can you stay awake for the remaining eight?

I think so.

That door.

That door?

-Come in.

-Thank you.

-What do you want?

-You sent for me.

-Did I?

-Yes.

Oh, yes. I've been considering your suggestion about Maura's studies.

Yes.

I've noticed what she reads. I should watch that if I were you.

Maura's at an age when...a girl's apt to get a little out of hand.

-Maura is a woman.

-She's also an Alexander.

-You don't like this, do you?

-No.

-Why not?

-It's foolish to paint by artificial light. And...

-And what?

You don't do it well.

I've always felt a man should be allowed to do one thing badly,

if he doesn't inflict his mistakes on others.

I store my paintings in the vault for posterity.

-Along with other things.

-Like what?

-Your daughter.

My daughter is not one of my mistakes.

Let us say instead that she is my greatest accomplishment.

I'm sure her mother would agree.

She was also a sound art critic.

She happened to like my paintings.

-She was in love with you.

-Naturally. You wouldn't understand that.

I'm sure I wouldn't.

Many of the things I do must seem strange to you.

I look at the beginnings, the embryo.

But here I see the finished canvas -

a glorious woman, cultured, poised,

-ready to take an important position as the wife of... What shall I say?

-You've already picked her husband?!

Sorry.

-What were we discussing?

-Maura's husband.

No, I mean the things I've laid out for her to do.

Oh, I think they can wait.

While, as you say, I never created a daughter of my own, for some reason God made me a woman.

That's why I know that this morning, or perhaps yesterday,

when Maura looked in the mirror she saw not a girl, but a woman -

a woman whose life, for 20-odd years, has been run as if it were a mine or a railroad.

She resented it. She still does.

If you keep on living her life for her, you may regret it.

I realise you believe what you're saying is true.

But confine your suggestions to her studies. Get my permission before starting anything new.

Good night.

-Mr Alexander.

-What is it?

-You do love your daughter, don't you?

-Of course. Why do you ask?

Well, it might be nice if she knew it, too.

This is the mountain and this is the tin mines.

There's a river runs right along here.

That's the river.

I think it would be smarter to throw a bridge across it but...

..if they want a tunnel, they'll get a tunnel.

We'll drive through Mount Tormento.

Three or four months and we'll reach the tin mines and that's it.

-Then where?

-Oh, wherever they want a railroad.

Alaska perhaps, China, Tibet, or...Brooklyn.

Say, what time is it?

-This says my visit's over and I feel it's hardly begun.

-Why hurry away?

-Ricky said ten minutes.

-And you used them all to talk about you.

-I'm sorry.

He might give us ten more so I could talk about me.

Sounds interesting. Tell me about me.

Well, I was born, er...er...

Under a lucky star, some 20-odd years ago, with the most beautiful eyes I've seen in South America.

You've got a cute nose too, though you carry it rather high at times.

-Tell me more.

-I could go on for hours. Raven-black hair.

Oh, that's right, you don't believe in love at first sight.

-Go to your room, Maura.

-Father, don't take that attitude. We were only talking.

-Go to your room.

-Mr Alexander, I know this looks...

-Good night, Mr Monroe.

-Good night.

-Good night.

# Ay, ay, ay-ay... #

Ay, ay, ay-ay!

I thought I had bred a gentlewoman, Maura. I find I've made a mistake.

I'm surprised you admit you can.

Maura!

I doubt I shall ever be surprised again.

-I find my daughter...

-Talking to a man.

In the arms of a drunken, brawling lout, who was recently associating with...

I've heard of such things.

I understand it was a custom in pagan Rome.

Women of breeding amused themselves with...gladiators.

Amused themselves?!

Where do you find this boldness?

Finish what you were saying. Tell me of the man you found in my arms.

-Don't say that again.

-Why not?

-Don't!

Go on, finish what you were saying.

Of course, you wouldn't know of such men. How could I expect you to?

But you know not to ask men into my home!

I thought perhaps it was my home too.

It is your home, Maura.

It was also the home of your mother.

As such, I expect you to respect it, even though you have so little for yourself.

-Hey, Curly.

-Yeah.

-Did you take a look at the plans?

-Mmm-hmm.

Fog's making cosy with the big blonde, you follow? >

I'm listening. He's telling me about Fog and the blonde.

Women, trouble, they're the same.

Right there under the hammock, I got an exploder planted, rigged up to the light.

HAMMER-DRILL MAKES LOUD NOISE

< When he reaches to turn off the light...

HAMMER-DRILL DROWNS SPEECH

< When he turns off the light, wham!

And the blonde says, "Fog, you're dynamite."

Yeah!

-All right, Brains.

-All right, Brawn.

Ready to load. Or should I do that too?!

You fired one the other night and look at that hammock.

-How many you using?

-Only 100, on account of the roof.

Let's take a look.

Kill the light. >

-Douse the circuit.

-Kill the lights.

CLATTERING

OK, take it away.

-How's it look?

-Straining plenty.

-Fog did well. She'll hold, I think.

-Wanna think outside?

-What?

-How about thinking outside?

-You gonna shoot from in here?

-You gotta trust the roof sometime.

-Wish I had a tin hat.

-Pull in your ears.

Fire in the hole!

LOUD EXPLOSION

Hit the lights.

Boy, it's great to be alive.

-How was it?

-Right, bring 'em in.

CREAKING AND CRASHING

Hit the whistle.

WHISTLE BLOWS

Are you all right?

- Are you all right? - No, we're both dead.

That's too close for comfort.

You can't trust that guy.

-All right, get this cleared out.

-Fog will love this!

I build a nice clean tunnel and look what you did!

Buy a book and learn how it's done.

Use timber. It ain't a wigwam, you know.

Sometimes I wonder!

-I wish we didn't have to build this tunnel. It's a stinker.

-That covers it.

-Did you feed the pigeons?

-Yes, and a bit extra.

-Good.

The roof falls down, the walls fall down, the bottom, everything...

Any luck?

Yeah, plenty, and all bad!

Oh!

I don't know what coulda happened.

Last night that lining was in the bag. This morning he turned me down cold.

Blame me, Pop.

That stuff in the hotel? It's more than that.

-Something else happened.

-I'm afraid so.

-What?

-Alexander's daughter.

-Oh, no! No!

-I was just talking.

-In her house.

-No, in a bar(!)

Oh, not in South America, not here.

-North, South, I was talking and my arm...

-Don't tell me more.

-There wasn't more.

-We're dead.

-We are not.

He can't mix personalities and business. I'll tell him so now.

-His daughter's one thing, business is another.

-You'll make it worse.

I doubt it. Look at that tunnel.

-The downward load is equalled by the upward pressure...

-Hold on, Ricky.

Let me make myself clear to you and your consulting engineers.

I do not risk lives to make money for my stockholders,

not only is it bad business, but it's murder.

Do we need a concrete lining for the tunnel?

-I've been trying to explain...

-I'm not interested in explanations.

-Do we need a concrete lining for that tunnel? Yes or no?

-No.

-You agree, gentlemen?

-Yes, Mr Alexander, we do.

-­ Mr Monroe is still waiting, sir.

-Let him wait.

Any other matters?

Mr Alexander is still in conference. You'll have to wait.

Lady, how wrong you can be.

DOOR BANGS

I don't know if you realise, but I've got a railroad to build.

If I come here it's because I've got something to say.

My partner wants a concrete lining, but it's still under consideration.

While you've been considering, 20 tonne of rock decided not to wait.

Fortunately it missed the gang,

but if it happens again a lot of us would be embarrassed.

That shouldn't worry you, Mr Monroe.

That is my naive way of telling you that while you're talking, people are risking their lives.

I know the lining isn't in the contract, but it's a matter of common decency.

That again, Mr Monroe, should give you little cause for concern.

-As one engineer to another, may I ask a question?

-Why not? As an engineer I respect you.

Why not assume that only necessity would bring me here?

I'm against the tunnel. A bridge is better, but you say it's impossible and the stockholders agree. OK.

I won't kill men or drive through El Tormento without concrete.

-Won't or can't?

-What do you mean?

-What I said.

If you're afraid, we'll terminate your contract.

We'll get somebody else to do it.

If you got out on the job, you'll see slide-rules don't hold up rocks.

-Look, Mr Monroe...

-I've heard enough.

It will remain under consideration.

I suggest, Ricky, a further examination of the tunnel.

That's all, gentlemen.

-Wait a minute, Mr Monroe.

-I'm going to.

Why don't you leave Tenango?

I've got a railroad to build.

-Do you expect to finish?

-On schedule.

-You're either a fool or an optimist.

-Are we talking about Miss Alexander?

-That's impertinent!

-Makes a difference.

-Does it?

-I have a partner named Pop Matthews. Why take it out on him?

-Are you giving me a reason why I shouldn't break you?

-Break me?

Yes...break you.

Wait.

I'm gonna build your railroad and when I'm finished you can wrap it around your neck.

-Senor!

-Get out of the way, pigeons.

< Flores?

Flores?

Flowers, mister?

-Hello.

-Hello.

-We said that before and look what happened.

-Sorry.

-Did I say a lot? This time...

-No railroads.

-No rivers, just you.

-Just me AND you.

And Miss Braithwaite. Does she know about the other night? Does she approve?

-I wouldn't be here if she hadn't helped.

-Will she help again?

-In South America we wait six months for the first visit, but I could be...

-In China, Tibet or Brooklyn.

I wouldn't be any further from you than now.

-Why?

-Your father doesn't like me,

-and he doesn't want me to see you.

-Don't I have a say in anything?

-Everything.

-I can't say it now.

Save it till next week.

-I'll be here, same time, same place...

-If I'm not?

Then I'll understand that you'd rather not see me.

But I hope you do.

I, er, um... Thank you.

Hey.

HE WHISPERS

What's this? The man in the Jeep.

-See what I mean?

-Yes, but I'm afraid your father wouldn't.

Johnny, I'm still waiting on those 12 by 12s.

-Did you call the lumber company?

-They told me about a prior order for the Durango mines.

-That's Alexander's outfit.

-They're getting their timber.

-Johnny...

-You want more rope.

-I'm in no hurry.

-Why?

-I can't blast without dynamite, which I've haven't got as it's gone to Durango.

They're tying us in knots - timber, powder,

and piping which the railroad says we can't have for three weeks.

And Alexander owns the railroad.

-Make do with what you've got until...

-We ain't got until you get.

I'll get.

Railroad, pipe, lumber, timber, Alexander...

Hello, you big mug.

-I don't get it.

-Come on, shake anyway. I'm trying to apologise.

-For calling yourself an engineer?

-For not talking to Maura before I jumped you at the office.

-Come on, they wanna be alone.

-This is strictly love stuff. Don't forget the timber.

-Keep squawking for it.

-Does this always go on?

Today it's worse. Alexander's holding up everything.

-You asked for a fight.

-From you too?

-Not since Maura said she'd invited you to the house.

-Wait a minute, don't think I ran away.

-AND I'm seeing her today.

-It's your neck.

-Where do you stand?

-Right in the middle.

I told you what I think about the lining. I'll look at the tunnel.

If I'm wrong I'll say - and to Alexander.

You're wrong.

-Come on, Chico.

-I need gum drops, plenty of them and soft.

-OK. Get in.

-That Jeep's fresh out of gas.

-Can I see a movie?

-You're a cinch.

-I hope it's not love stuff?

-Why?

He kisses her, she kisses him, they get married, kids...trouble.

-Hiya, Pop.

-Ricky, you're a nice guy.

Just feel sorry for that big mug.

CHATTER AND LAUGHTER

Don't think of Europe for a year or two.

Stay in Las Palmas. Look what you have -

mountains, the climate, agreeable companions and close to Tenango.

That's not what I want. For five years, we've been unable to travel,

cut off by the war from any way of living. It's very confining.

Maura, we were talking about Europe.

-Europe?

-We're both going, haven't I told you?

-No.

-I'm getting old. I thought I'd discussed it.

-You're interested?

-Not particularly.

I don't blame you, unless it's the Riviera.

-There's Paris.

-I've been there.

These blase young people.

At this age she was easier to amuse. Travel was an adventure.

Maura, we're waiting. >

-We're going down to the lake.

-Don't wait, I'll meet you later.

-Aren't you going to ride?

-We're taking exercise at the bridge table.

And don't quote to me, I have my own system.

-I'm not going to Europe.

-Aren't you?

And I'm not staying in Las Palmas.

Your attitude this past week puzzles me.

-Does it?

-I've tried to please you, invited guests when I'd rather be alone, entertained your friends.

Your friends, not mine.

There you are. 20 years they've been OUR friends. Now suddenly they become MY friends.

What is it, Maura? What's wrong?

I simply prefer Tenango to Las Palmas.

You used to like Las Palmas.

The trails we rode together.

Do you remember when we made time stand still?

We looked out from the mountain and said, "This is good.

"This is now. Let's enjoy it together, because tomorrow who knows what will happen."

Has it happened, Maura?

Do we no longer understand each other?

-I want you to understand... I want you to understand that...

-Yes?

I just want to see him.

That's something I will not discuss.

-I'm to stay in Las Palmas?

-Until we leave for Europe, understood?

You handled that very badly, Maura.

I wasn't trying to handle anything. I told him the truth.

So have I, often, and found it's a mistake.

Truth to him is something he wants to believe.

Then he'd better start to believe it. I'm going to see Johnny Monroe.

-When?

-I'm supposed to be at the cathedral this afternoon.

-You're not going to be.

-Ellen, you're dressed for town.

Call the garage and ask Pablo to have the car ready.

Wait.

The garage, please. Pablo, have Miss Alexander's car ready in 20 minutes. We're driving to Tenango.

I see. Thank you.

Well?

Your father's said you're not to use the car without his permission.

Without his permission!

Lock the doors, close the gates, post men on the walls.

-It's ridiculous.

-But very effective.

-Then suggest something.

I can, but it will sound more ridiculous.

-Say it.

-First, don't argue with your father, now.

-You can't win.

-How will I get to Tenango? It's 30 miles.

It's less than 20 if you ride.

Stay at the town house and argue with your father in the morning.

AND you will have had your meeting.

I'll stay in Tenango tonight and tomorrow and tomorrow until...

-Oh, Ellen, I love you.

-Get out of here.

Be careful, darling.

Any messages?

-Did you get the gum drops for Pop?

-Yes.

-How many did you eat?

-That's all that I got.

-What took you so long?

-I met a woman.

You're luckier than I am.

-Sometimes they don't show up.

-Sometimes they don't...

Excuse me, senor, will you stand up please?

-Six foot three? Four? Five?

-Four.

Ah, you must be the one. Senorita Maura had to go to Las Palmas.

If she was my woman I would go to Las Palmas.

But I would rather go to a movie.

You are going to a movie and I'm going to Las Palmas.

I'll have more fun!

-Where's Maura?

-I don't know.

-Wasn't she with you?

-We didn't see her at all.

I wonder what's keeping her?

-Are you sure she's riding?

-Yes.

-Don't be mysterious, where did she go?

-Tenango.

Rode? To Tenango?

You let her?

The town house, please.

Maura is in an adventurous mood today.

She rode to Tenango.

Hello, has Miss Alexander arrived?

That's all, thank you.

She's not at the town house.

Call my house, Frederick. She might ride through my grounds.

Felarde will have to unlock the gate.

I've made that ride. It's there you start getting tired.

Felarde will drive her home.

Thank you. Felarde says she's not been through the grounds.

She should be in Tenango now.

Tell Felarde to mount a dozen men and ride to Las Palmas.

-It could be serious.

-I wouldn't like to spend a night out there.

-Emilio, tell the grooms to saddle the horses.

-Yes, sir.

-With your permission.

-Of course.

I'm coming with you.

So Chico said he'd go to Las Palmas.

So you did and found me going to Tenango.

-Is that bad?

-No, it's good.

What happens to the mare?

She'll be all right. She'll eat and go back to the barn when it's dark.

She'd better or she'll get a bad name, especially in South America.

-What's wrong with South America?

-Nothing's wrong with it.

Some nice people come from there.

Some of the nicest people I know come from North America.

That's the way girls with blue eyes get themselves kissed.

-That's how big boys with grey eyes get their faces slapped.

-Difficult, huh?

I guess I'll have to buy myself a guitar

and give you romance South American fashion.

ENGINE FAILS

Uh-oh. I give up. Say anything you want to.

-Why?

-You won't believe me anyway, I've run out of gasoline.

-Johnny!

-Pop told me about it and I just forgot.

I had a date and I guess I got excited.

What do you think will happen when I don't arrive in Tenango?

Oh. Well, you'll arrive in Tenango, all right.

But you're gonna be tired when we get there. We're gonna walk.

Romance North American fashion(!)

-Where are you going?

-Tenango. It's a short cut.

-Pretty wet.

-No! Around the lake.

-How much shorter is it?

-About seven miles.

-Oh.

-You take the trail. We'll meet you at Rocas.

-Where?

-At the ruins.

-Take your men south and we'll meet you.

-At the ruins?

-Yes.

Are you sure this is the right way?

-Very sure.

-I'm not arguing.

I came through with my grandfather. He made the trail himself.

All due respect to your grandfather, this isn't exactly a highway.

-He must have been on a horse, I was.

-When was that?

-Ten years. Ow!

Hold it.

Things can happen in ten years. Hunks of mountains fall down...

-Things happen.

-Is that my fault?

-Yes.

-No.

Oh!

-Oh!

-What's wrong?

-It's the wrong trail.

-When did you decide that?

-This is the temple. We should have turned at the falls.

-The falls!

-That's miles.

-I was so positive.

-Any suggestions?

-No.

-Then I take over, agreed?

-What are we going to do?

Park here for a while. Rest our bones and catch our breath.

We mustn't wait too long.

We'll have dinner, dance...

-LOUD SQUAWKS

-Aagh!

-PARROT SQUAWKS

-Don't get excited. Don't get excited, we're paying guests.

-Squawk louder next time.

-PARROT SQUAWKS

-I'm worried. You don't realise what will happen if I don't get to Tenango.

-You'll get there.

Oh, there she goes.

Nice.

Nice.

-I've got to get home.

-Everything will be all right.

If we could only get back to the road.

We can't grope around the jungle in the dark.

Well, what can we do?

Well, er...first we'll er... build a fire.

-Yeah.

-And er...

Then we'll sit around and watch it burn...

till daylight.

I couldn't possibly stay here all night.

You'll have to.

At the crack of dawn, I'll rush you home as fast as I can.

-This is serious.

-You bet.

If you weren't the lady you are, I'd have you gathering wood.

There's nothing like work

-to take your mind off your troubles.

-I'll help.

Don't wear yourself out.

-You're not geared for this.

-I might surprise you.

That would be awfully nice,

but just the same, I'd hate to see you really roughing it.

No offence, understand.

Dinner!

-Sit down, let's eat.

-Eat?

-Aren't you hungry?

-Famished.

Have a gum drop on Pop. Sorry, there's only one flavour.

Johnny, I'm so...

Close your eyes.

Close 'em.

-What do you see?

-Father, and he's perfectly furious.

Well, we really won't have to worry about that,

because I'll say, "Mr Alexander, I know this doesn't look..."

And he'll say, "Goodnight, Mr Monroe," and that will be that!

Close your eyes.

-There's a fire at the old temple.

-Senor Tobar must have ridden past.

-Perhaps it's Senor Ravida.

-We'll find out.

-Hey.

-I just made a wish.

-What about?

-I wished that...

If I tell you, it won't come true.

-Was I in it?

-Well, yes.

I think so.

If I made a wish, you'd be in it.

You see those two stars, the ones close together?

-See them?

-Yes.

They're called...

You're not looking in the right direction.

Yes, I am.

-Oh, Johnny.

-Didn't I tell you you'd be all right?

-How I dread tomorrow.

-You dreaded tonight.

Yes, I did.

Now I wish it would never end.

I feel kind of like that, too.

Making another wish?

Sleepy.

Goodnight.

HORSES WHINNY

What is it?

Pedro, Miguel.

Give them your horses.

-I don't suppose there's any use explaining?

-Give them your horses.

No rice!

Johnny, I'm sorry it couldn't have happened differently.

I'm glad it happened the way it did.

I didn't know it was possible to get married so quickly.

Oh, Maura, hasn't it occurred to you that I'm in love with you?

-You've only seen me a few times.

-Once is enough.

I mean it.

It's the way it happened last time.

-You've been in love before?

-Sure, I can remember it clearly.

I was in her arms. She put me over her shoulder and burped me.

Makes wonderful pies. You'll meet her in a month.

Honey, don't worry.

I won't let anything happen to you. You're mine. For ever.

ALARM SOUNDS

-What is that?

-It comes from the camp and it's not good.

They only blow it when there's trouble. Step on it.

Come on.

ALARM SOUNDS

-Where were you?

-What happened?

-The roof went, the mountain fell.

-How many in there?

-The night gang.

Senor Monroe, Senor Monroe, my man is in there.

We're going as fast as we can. Just be patient, all of you.

-Senor Johnny, my father, he is...

-I know.

-I know I forgot you Chico. I'll see your dad...

-He's in there.

We'll get him out, don't worry.

Maura... Take her up to my shed, Chico.

-Stay with him.

-But...

-Stay with him.

I will take you to his house.

Your father's there, we'll wait. He'll be in there a long time.

Fire in the hole!

-I shot the bench, an hour later she went.

-Ricky's in there with Pop?

In the back. That stuff will hold.

-Fog?

-If he was coming out, it would have got him.

-Where are you gonna shoot next?

-Over the top.

-Get me a tin hat! You got that air line ready?

-All set.

Are you gonna shoot that thing or let the rocks wear away?!

Am I gonna shoot? Now he starts giving orders!

-You're glad.

-All clear.

Get the air line in!

-You see what Johnny brought?

-Bourbon, I hope.

-Alexander's daughter.

Alexander's daughter?! I told you to keep out the smoke.

No, look.

Dames, dames, always a dame.

Which brings us back to Fog.

Pick it up!

They must be through. No, you'd hear the women.

It could go on for two days, maybe three.

Three days! They'll be dead.

Johnny Monroe said he would get them out.

You want another blanket for your bed?

No, no.

I can't stay here.

He'll beat you and you'll deserve it.

Give me that sledge.

Cut off the air!

Cut the air!

-FAINT BANGS

-Tell the women!

Come on, let's dig.

-They answered our signals. Your men are alive.

-How long?

-An hour, sooner.

I tell you, your men are alive.

WOMEN CHAT EXCITEDLY

Chico, go home and warm up those beans. Your old man will be hungry.

He'll not want beans!

You're Mrs Monroe. I'm Curly, you've got a good guy.

-What's he doing in there?

-We hit a pocket, we don't know who's in there.

-Johnny and Joe are holing through.

-Oh.

-Why don't you go to his place? I'll send him up soon.

-Can he get hurt?

-He's too ugly to get hurt!

He's like that. He always laughs. He is nice.

-I think I can get through there.

-I can, for sure.

-Fog! Fog!

-Yeah.

What kept you?

-Touchy guy!

-How about the others?

-Conked out.

Give me a hand.

-Aah!

-Johnny!

He's still alive.

-His leg.

-Doc!

Ssh. They're both asleep.

-How about Pop and Ricky?

-You got me, Johnny.

In there, some place.

Tell Curly to get the rest of the crew in here.

-Come on Joe!

-Don't take all the babes in the hospital.

What is it? What do you want?

Why did you let me sleep? You were tired.

They've found them, they're safe. And you let me sleep?!

There is time. They've just come from the tunnel.

It's better that you wait here. See your man alone.

Always they talk. Men talk and drink.

No-one is dead, they are happy.

Your father? He's all right.

There's coffee and beans on the stove. I'll go out the back.

-What's going on. I want to know about Alexander's daughter.

->

Get your skull patched up, I'll tell you later.

-I can still think with it, more than you can.

->

I haven't slept for two days. Give me a break.

I'll break your nose. Can you imagine anything so stupid?

-Marries Alexander's daughter. He's nuts!

-He's original.

-My face feels like someone stepped on it, which you did!

-See you later.

-Not if I see you first.

->

Aye-aye-aye. Hello, baby.

Oh, there's what I need.

Tough night.

Are you hurt?

Just tired.

You're sweet, baby.

Just sweet.

-All ready, senora.

-Thank you.

-All that for two people?

-He is much of a man, senora.

-He is.

-Hey, Maria! What are we having for breakfast?

Eggs fried.

-When will it be different?

-Tomorrow, boiled.

-Fried eggs, boiled eggs, scrambled.

-A man can have something else.

-What, for instance?

You.

Pretty, baby.

I'm gonna have to learn some new manners.

-I'm used to having the bedroom in the dining room.

-I don't mind.

-You don't? I'll take four of them.

-Four!

Mmm-hmm and some bacon.

My lord and master.

Four of 'em and plenty of bacon.

-<

-Hey, Johnny!

Johnny, I can't use the shovel...

Good morning, Miss...Mrs Monroe. Morning.

-You had to reach for that. All right, huh?

-Yes, she's lovely.

-We're hung up down there.

-I haven't eaten.

-You can eat later.

-A coffee?

Bring your coffee. You don't mind?

Drink your coffee while you walk.

Well... Put a cover on the eggs, honey. I'll be back in two minutes.

Every morning it's the same. I cook eggs, something happens.

He goes away, I have to eat them. I hate eggs!

-<

-All right, Joe. I'll get them, all right.

-<

-Fog, where's the timbers? I'll get the timbers.

Oh, don't worry.

I'll get 'em, Joe.

OK, I'll get 'em.

We...

-Maura!

-I'm here.

-What time is it?

-After seven.

Oh! Why didn't you wake me up? I've asked you not to do this.

You came in late, I let you sleep.

-Has Pop been here?

-I said he could see you at eight.

I told him to be here at six. The track foreman will blow his top.

All right, let him blow his top.

Maria, get me some coffee...

-Where's Maria?

-She isn't here today. I'm making breakfast.

-Oh...

-Don't worry. I wouldn't know what to do with you around.

-I never see you.

-Never?

Almost never. Ten minutes at lunch, ten minutes at dinner.

Back into that mountain.

-I see you at night.

-You frighten me, you talk in your sleep.

-Oh!

Last night you called out, "Curly, look out, the roof is falling."

You talk to Joe, Fog, everybody but me.

Oh, honey, I...

Johnny, it's an insane way to live.

Are you sorry we tried it?

-Just three more months.

-Promise.

-Three more months.

-Hello, Ricky.

-Hello, Johnny. Hello, Maura.

You're just in time for breakfast. My breakfast. I gotta hurry.

-See you later.

-Bye, Johnny.

-What happens in three months?

-This job will finish.

-In three months?

-Yes, I'm going to meet his mother.

There's a barn with a thing that you slide down.

I don't know where you land.

-Sit down, I'll get some breakfast.

-Three months?

-Mmm-hmm. Want coffee?

-Yes, please.

Maura, if Johnny gets through this job in a year, he'll be lucky.

He's working night and day to finish this job.

-Your father's working to make sure he doesn't.

-You mean the deliveries.

Johnny fixed that. We got a car load yesterday.

-Want some beans?

-Mmm.

He needed three car loads.

Maura, if your father wanted to, he could close us tomorrow.

-He owns the railroad.

-Then why did we get that delivery?

Ever see a cat play with a mouse?

Stops and lets him go, stops and lets him go...

Does he hate me that much?

I don't know, but I know Johnny will be lucky to ever get this job done,

let alone in three months.

Johnny said three months and I believe him.

Bring the sandwiches, Chico.

I don't like sandwiches.

What's a picnic without sandwiches?

You can eat the bread and I'll eat the middle.

ALARM SOUNDS

Not today. Nothing must happen today. We've waited so long.

Maybe it's not important. There's always tomorrow.

Always tomorrow, never today.

-It's Pop.

-Is Johnny hurt?

-No, it's just Pop. Lots of rock fell on him. Oh, it's bad.

Get the hospital. The hospital! >

We have a man for the operating room. >

-Is it bad?

-Bad enough, he's got a couple of ribs broken.

If you see Alexander, tell him he's in front today.

-He got a good guy.

-I'm on your side.

Who said I wanted you on my side! Your tribe are all a bunch of...

I'm sorry, Maura.

Sometimes I...

I'm sorry.

We've gotta get Pop to hospital.

-Doesn't he know I love Pop too?

-He didn't think.

Sometimes I wonder how he can think at all.

Three months.

Just...three more months.

Prayers, prayers. You women pray too much.

What else can we do? I don't know, but you must weary the saints.

Perhaps, but they've kept him alive.

It won't be long before we leave.

Always you talk of going away. What is wrong with this? I hate it.

You're a woman. Women don't understand such things.

Tell Curly both valves are plugged solid! Hello. Tell him I'm waiting!

Get me some dry clothes, kid. That river's cold!

Bring me some cigarettes!

Oh, thanks.

-What's for supper?

-Boiled beef.

-Good.

-When did you start this?

-A month ago.

You'd better cut in that emergency land, we'll need water.

-What did Chavez say about the rails?

-I've been smoking a month.

You have? Pete, they're waiting on those rails. Catch them up!

With what? I'm stuck for a truck.

-Didn't you tell Chavez to send a truck.

-I haven't seen him.

-Today at breakfast?

-I didn't see you at breakfast.

-Last night, then.

-Make do with what you've got. I'll get them tonight.

-OK.

-Why don't you do what I tell you?

-Johnny!

It would have taken you five minutes.

Well...

Hey, that's beautiful.

I like it. New?

-No.

-I like it.

Right there.

-Now look at you.

-I don't mind, Johnny.

-I wanna find out when we're going away.

-It won't be long.

You don't need these.

-How long?

-30, 60 days.

Jose, go to the river and help them with the fillers.

-You said that last month.

-I meant it. Take some men to help you!

We're almost through the bad run.

-Two more blasts and we'll be in the clear.

-What then?

Blast our way through the mountain. 30, 60 days tops.

30 days. 60 days. You've said all that before.

Three months ago you promised we'd be in the States this week.

I believed you. I've tried to live in this crazy world.

-I can't do it, Johnny!

-Come on, Maura.

Dirt, noise, men getting killed. If I stay any longer I'll go insane. I won't! I won't!

Don't I have enough headaches without you blowing your top?

-You said three months.

-I meant it.

But that was before your old man started interfering.

What do you expect me to do? Build it with spit and chewing gum?

If you could, I'd believe you.

Then believe this, I'm doing everything I can.

If you love me, stop nagging at me. Leave me alone when I'm working.

ALARM SOUNDS

Get some explosives, make it fast!

-The roof went at the head.

-What about that shoulder?

-It's all right.

-How much came down?

-Enough to wrap it up.

-This isn't the first time.

It's the last. There's rock all the way through.

-It'll take a year to dig out.

-Then we'll dig for a year.

-Don't say we're through.

-I'm not kidding.

-Nor am I.

I'll drive that tunnel if it takes 50 years. If it's too tough, leave!

-Don't say we're through.

-Johnny!

-Go away!

-What do you want?

-Curly.

-What about Curly!

-Nothing.

-Let's go.

Get to the hospital and fix that shoulder!

Chavez, what about Curly?

I couldn't tell him.

There's a guy ready to crack, but I mean now.

What happens when he finds Curly under that rock?

Is Curly dead? What else could he be under that?

That guy's going in to clear it up.

He can't. No, he can't. But he will.

Draw your pay and scram. If I had any sense, I would.

If you had any sense, that's what you'd do.

Why don't you take his advice and get out of here?

-How is he?

-He's through.

That'll give you a little rest, son.

Yeah, it'll put you to sleep. When you wake you'll be in hospital.

We'll get you a nice blonde nurse.

Since when did we start telling each other lies?

Leave it where it is, Johnny. Leave the whole thing.

You can't drive through this mountain.

Nobody can. Stop trying.

As a favour?

What can I say to that?

You don't say anything.

Just take those plans and build yourself that bridge.

Would it make you happy if I said yes?

-Be happy.

-You're a great guy, Johnny. One more favour?

While I've still got you on the hook.

-Let me stay here.

-What?

I'm scared of graveyards.

Have been...ever since I was...a kid.

Curly?

-Mr Monroe, I think we'd better...

-Leave him alone.

-How many cases of dynamite did you get?

-30.

That's funny, that's how old Curly was on his last birthday.

Yeah.

Plant 'em all.

-All clear?

-All clear.

If a guy could write poetry,

he'd say that mountain was Curly's monument.

Maura?

-Maura?

-She went home to her father.

She...she told me to tell you.

Joe told me about the tunnel.

-He did?

-He also told me about the bridge.

I think I can swing it for you.

-Can you?

-No need to go into the details now.

I'm sure I can talk Alexander...

I listened to you and compromised with Alexander before.

Because I did, Curly's dead.

From now on I listen to no-one. I'll build his railroad my own way.

Get out!

All right, Johnny.

I'm sorry, Chico.

You'd better go home.

-What time did Maura come home last night?

-After midnight.

-Why didn't you wake me?

-She asked me not to.

So, she's left him.

-Come home to stay, hmm?

-Yes.

Well, that settles that.

-Be sure and say I told you so(!)

-I probably shall.

Will you excuse us please, Ellen?

That's all.

It's good to see you, Maura.

Well, you've done just what you set out to do.

Sit down. You're upset. I can understand that.

Can we discuss this quietly and sensibly for a few moments?

-How does it feel to be responsible for the death of a man?

-What man?

The man who died in the tunnel.

You did that, you've done it all.

You marry off your daughter and put the whole world between them.

It's so easy for you. Pick up a phone and call someone.

"No timber, no rails." You, yes, you killed Curly Messenger.

That's a very serious accusation, Maura...and untrue.

They asked for a concrete lining and you refused.

I'm not in the habit of defending my decisions, Maura,

but I think you should know six engineers, including Ricky, decided it was unnecessary.

I agreed and Ricky signed the contract, as did Mr Monroe.

-But he came to you later and...

-No-one forced Monroe and Matthews to build that railroad.

Other firms wanted the contract.

Your husband's bid was the lowest.

Work started and out of a clear sky he insisted on a concrete lining.

-He proved he was right.

-After the damage was done.

He could have stopped any time.

You knew he wouldn't do that.

What made him think I would quit?

Does he judge all the Alexanders by you?

I'm sorry.

Don't be. I quit, I ran away.

Let's say instead that you've come home.

-Monroe is a part of yesterday.

-Mr Monroe is in the library.

-What does he want?

-< He's closed down the tunnel.

Oh!

Having failed with the tunnel, I suppose he wants to build a bridge.

Something like that.

Sorry to be abrupt.

But, I'm in a hurry.

(Excuse me, please.)

-Have you been drinking?

-Steadily. There are the bridge specifications.

I want you to OK them so I can get started.

You expect me to put my signature on these?

-What makes you think I will?

-You have no alternative.

The mountain just came down on your tunnel and all your investment.

-Another contractor can build it.

-I doubt it.

I'll build the bridge with the funds left from the tunnel.

-You're insane.

-Your stockholders will like it if it's the same cost.

Particularly now the tunnel's a failure.

-Why don't you admit you're beaten, Monroe?

-When do I start the bridge?

Sleep on it.

You look charming, Miss Braithwaite. I like your hair.

DRILLING

-How's it going, Holden?

-There's hard rock down there.

They're squawking about that rock dust. They need to wet it down.

Dry holes drill faster - no water.

-One of them knows the law.

-Fire him.

-They won't like it.

That's your headache, Holden.

OK, but how about this traveller? It's overloaded - she's gonna let go.

We lose a little cement, but we save 100 hours.

-Who takes the rap for the men we lose?

-That worry you?

-The men, no, the rap, yeah.

-I hired you cos you could get the work done.

-That's right.

Then get it done. I'll deal with the raps.

Hey, Joe, what's holding up this yacht?

-Waiting for the boss to pull his gang out.

-He won't. Take it off.

-Then she'll close.

-Not the way I look at it. Fire in the hole!

Crawl under your tin hats. That's what they're for!

Don't ever do that again, not with me around.

-Didn't you like it? Why not quit?

-I wanna see how rotten you get.

OK, stick around, but that's how it'll be, or maybe tougher.

Get closer to the men. You'll see things better.

Come on.

HEAVY DRILLING

-That's popping 'em kind of close, isn't it?

-You, too?

-I didn't know you were interested in construction. I'll explain the details.

-That's not necessary.

-I engineered the railroad that brought you here.

-I didn't know.

-There are many things you don't know about me.

-I'm learning fast. How does it strike you?

The bridge is coming along all right.

You're cheating on safety. You're cutting some dangerous corners.

I'm building you a bridge. You can decide if it's good or not when you pay off.

-How I build it is my business.

-There are other people involved.

I don't mean the board of directors.

-You're worried about them?

-Yes and about you, too.

You'll understand, Monroe, I've never been an admirer of yours.

-But somehow, recently, I've come to see you differently.

-You look just the same to me.

Don't be a fool. I know this country well.

When the rains come, the river rises 15ft. It roars down here like a mad thing in flight.

-Don't cheat on your foundations.

-They'll be good.

Make them better. Seal in your span if necessary. I'll give you a 90-day extension, if you like.

-Do a good job.

-A 90-day extension? You gave me a wedding once.

Now I'm very careful about what I accept from you. I'm not interested.

You have come back! It's good to see you again.

-Listen to me, stay out of hospital!

-Johnny will be happy you're back. You're good with three legs.

What they bring that guy back for?

-Who are those guys?

-Strangers. This is not a happy camp.

What do you...?

-Say, they've sure been building a bridge.

-Yes.

I'd better have a closer look.

I hope he will say something to Johnny Monroe. Maybe things will be better.

Hiya, Pop. Remember me?

Welcome home. You look swell, positively lady-bait.

-That's what the nurses said. That all you got to do, potter with paper work?

-Yeah, that's right.

-Hey!

-What do you think of it?

Come on, take a look.

-Hey, you didn't say you were this far along.

-Yesterday, we weren't.

Hey, Joe!

Look what I got!

Fog Harris. Say, isn't there anything I can do to get rid of you?

-What's with the cane?

-To get sympathy. You think this will stay put when the rains come?

That's something we don't talk about.

Let's go.

I'm going to introduce him to Holden.

Keep on this wire, I'll be right back.

I've seen how this camp's run. I'm going to ask Johnny some questions.

-Holden...

-Fog Harris, huh? I've heard about you.

Settle for night watchman and it's your job.

Watchman?! He was gang boss!

-He's going to be construction boss across the river.

-You've got a job for him?

You're a pest. You're only here because Johnny asked me to keep you.

Johnny asked you to keep ME!

Ask him - here he is.

-Did you ask him to keep me around?

-I told you to keep your mouth shut.

-He's...

-I said, keep your mouth shut!

-I opened it, so what?

He didn't rate that.

No?

You did. That's for popping a lot of swell guys you've stepped on.

I'm building a bridge. Want a job?

With you? No, Johnny, I'm writing you off.

I see what he means. And on you it doesn't look good.

Hey, Bert!

We're getting a new job.

You, too?

I'm your partner till I say different.

Poncho.

Get up, you're not hurt.

-Reminds me of Johnny.

-The faster they climb, the sooner they fall.

It's not all his fault. He has to meet the deadline.

FOLK MUSIC PLAYS

Hey!

Chico!

-Salud!

-Down the hatch.

Viva el toro! Viva nosotros!

Viva...!

I am saying hurray for everybody.

Ole!

-Hey, why not go out there and be a bullfighter.

-Not me, I'm an engineer.

-Hello, Senor Johnny.

-Hello, Chico. Hello.

-Sorry, you have to have a tie.

-Got one here.

-What's up?

-It's Independence Day. We are full.

-Try the bar.

-We'll drink our dinner.

-That's crowded, too.

-We'll be all right.

-Good evening, ladies. How do you do, Mr Alexander?

-How do you do?

How do you like Monroe? He's still mooning over Jane. Mister...

-Hello.

-Hello.

-You haven't been to the bridge lately. Mad at me?

-Are they your friends?

-They're part of my crew.

-Why inflict them on us?

-Want a clout on the ear? You talking to me?

-If anyone's insulted, it's me.

Let's pretend we didn't hear it.

FIREWORKS EXPLODE

-Seen Johnny?

-He's in there.

-He say anything?

-Yeah, he said hello.

Oh.

-I was talking to Alexander.

-Yes.

-He offered you 90 more days. You kicked it in the pants.

-I want nothing from him.

No, you'd rather turn the job into a rat race.

You break with Joe and Fog and bring in slime like Holden.

-Ah, what are you doing to yourself? What are you doing?

-I've got a fight on my hands, Pop.

Not a nice clean fight where you punch each other on the jaw.

It's no holds barred. You fight with contracts, telephones and time clauses.

When it's finished, I win the first round.

Yeah, you won a round, all right, but you've lost everything that made you Johnny Monroe.

You used to be a builder, a creator.

I've watched those hands dream up railways, dams, tunnels and bridges.

You took nothing and made it into something, and built things.

And now...

Now you've lost all that.

You're tearing things down, tearing people down.

-You don't build, you destroy.

-So you don't want any more of it?

Yeah, I guess that's it.

When you get back, take my name off the sign.

From now on, it's just Johnny Monroe.

-May I talk to you?

-Talk to me?

Yes.

Well?

It's...

taken a long time to find the courage to say this.

I was wrong. I should never have left you.

I don't know how you stuck it as long as you did.

-The mud and noise and dirt, and people getting killed.

-I'll get used to it.

You won't and neither will I. I've found a little thing called money.

I'm going after it, plenty of it.

I'll finish the bridge, and I'll keep working but it'll be for money.

Then I'll buy you back.

Let me take you home, Maura.

I'll get the car.

FIREWORKS EXPLODE

-Fireworks.

-Yeah, nothing like the real thing.

-Let's grab a nightcap.

-Come on, Chico. We'll buy you a lemonade.

Are you going to see Senor Johnny?

No.

We should be quite proud of ourselves, shouldn't we?

-Proud?

-Yes, proud of what we've done to him.

My dear, let us not take all the credit.

In the jungle you discover a man's real nature. The veneer wears thin.

Monroe had very little to begin with.

-He was real and for that, I loved him.

-Maura.

He was himself then - Johnny -

not this crazy stranger without friends.

Yes, he stands alone now, doesn't he?

Yes. All alone.

THUNDERCLAP

TELEPHONE RINGS

Yes.

Oh.

It's Gonzales at the mine. There's been a cloudburst in the mountains.

-A three-foot wall of water is starting down the river.

-Get me the hotel.

The hotel, please.

The showdown, Maura. A little sooner than Mr Monroe expected.

-That pleases you?

-Frankly, yes.

It was never a question of could he build a bridge. Any man could do that.

But will it be there after the water hits it? Hello.

Can I speak to Mr Vargas, please?

Yes? Yes, sir, thank you.

I'll tell Monroe at once.

Yes, in your office, ten minutes.

Snap out of it, you big ape!

VERY SLURRED: Snap out of it. More coffee?

He's out for the night.

-See if...

-There's been a cloudburst. There's three feet of water on the river. My uncle wanted you to know.

-He's worried about his bridge?

-He's made a big investment.

-It's worth more to him if it goes.

It won't be three feet when it gets there - it'll be six, eight or ten.

Without that centre span in place, you're in trouble.

-How long before the water hits it?