0:00:48 > 0:00:50Your usual, m'Lord.
0:00:50 > 0:00:52HE GROANS
0:00:56 > 0:00:59Good morning, m'Lord.
0:00:59 > 0:01:01HE GROANS
0:01:09 > 0:01:11The morning paper, m'Lord.
0:01:11 > 0:01:12Mmm...
0:01:15 > 0:01:21"Sir Robert Chiltern, a rising star in Parliament, tonight hosts a party
0:01:21 > 0:01:25"that promises to be the highlight of the social calendar,
0:01:25 > 0:01:30"with his wife, Lady Gertrude, who is herself a leading figure
0:01:30 > 0:01:36"in women's politics. They represent what is best in English public life
0:01:36 > 0:01:40"and is a noble contrast to the lax morality
0:01:40 > 0:01:43"so common amongst foreign politicians."
0:01:43 > 0:01:47They will never say that about me, will they, Phipps?
0:01:47 > 0:01:50I sincerely hope not, sir.
0:01:50 > 0:01:55Bit of a busy day. Distressingly little time for sloth or idleness.
0:01:55 > 0:02:01- Sorry, sir.- Not entirely your fault. Not this time.
0:02:02 > 0:02:04Thank you, m'Lord.
0:02:04 > 0:02:06HE YAWNS
0:02:23 > 0:02:26- Good morning, Tommy. - Lady Chiltern.
0:02:26 > 0:02:29I very much look forward to this evening.
0:02:29 > 0:02:31- Miss Mabel.- Tommy.
0:02:31 > 0:02:36I hope you'll make our appointment, I've something to say to you.
0:02:37 > 0:02:40Good day, ladies.
0:02:40 > 0:02:44- When he wants to be romantic, he talks to one like a doctor.- Ha-ha!
0:02:44 > 0:02:47Till tonight!
0:02:47 > 0:02:49Miss Mabel.
0:02:49 > 0:02:51Lord Goring.
0:02:52 > 0:02:54Lord Goring?
0:02:54 > 0:02:57Countess, good morning.
0:02:57 > 0:03:01Aren't you going to congratulate me?
0:02:59 > 0:03:01Congratulations.
0:03:01 > 0:03:04- Aren't you going to ask why?- Why?
0:03:04 > 0:03:07I've decided to marry.
0:03:07 > 0:03:09My God! Who to?
0:03:09 > 0:03:11That is still to be decided.
0:03:11 > 0:03:14Good morning, dear Gertrude.
0:03:14 > 0:03:16Lady Markby.
0:03:16 > 0:03:21Allow me to introduce my friend, Mrs Cheveley.
0:03:21 > 0:03:23How do you do?
0:03:23 > 0:03:26Mrs Cheveley and I have met before.
0:03:26 > 0:03:28Of course.
0:03:28 > 0:03:32Gertrude. And to think you married Sir Robert Chiltern.
0:03:32 > 0:03:37I was hoping to meet your husband.
0:03:35 > 0:03:37Really?
0:03:37 > 0:03:40Yes. But I return to Vienna on Friday.
0:03:40 > 0:03:44Oh, dear, what a shame.
0:03:44 > 0:03:48Well, perhaps I might bring her this evening?
0:03:48 > 0:03:53Yes, by all means.
0:03:50 > 0:03:53What can I say? I'd be delighted.
0:03:53 > 0:03:58We'll see you tonight.
0:03:55 > 0:03:57See you tonight.
0:04:20 > 0:04:25You see, Phipps, fashion is what one wears oneself.
0:04:25 > 0:04:27What is unfashionable
0:04:27 > 0:04:31is what other people wear.
0:04:29 > 0:04:31Yes, m'Lord.
0:04:31 > 0:04:35People are dreadful. The only society is oneself.
0:04:35 > 0:04:39Yes, m'Lord.
0:04:36 > 0:04:39To love oneself...
0:04:39 > 0:04:42is the beginning of a lifelong romance.
0:04:42 > 0:04:44Yes, m'Lord.
0:04:54 > 0:04:56Their Graces,
0:04:56 > 0:04:58the Duke and Duchess of Berwick.
0:05:02 > 0:05:04Lord Windermere.
0:05:06 > 0:05:09Countess Basildon.
0:05:09 > 0:05:13..It is widely agreed the last truly decent man in London.
0:05:13 > 0:05:18You're a very personable man, with a most attractive personality.
0:05:18 > 0:05:23You've brought into British politics an honesty, an integrity, a finer...
0:05:23 > 0:05:28A nobler atmosphere. A finer attitude and higher ideals.
0:05:28 > 0:05:31Don't believe everything in newspapers.
0:05:31 > 0:05:36In the old days, we had the rack. Nowadays, we have the press.
0:05:36 > 0:05:39Your paper being the exception, Sir Edward.
0:05:39 > 0:05:44Where truth shines out like a beacon and lies run vainly for the shadows.
0:05:44 > 0:05:49Bravo. But may I ask, do I detect in your conversation a lyricism
0:05:49 > 0:05:53not entirely uncommon in your husband's speeches?
0:05:53 > 0:05:57If you are suggesting that my position owes anything to my wife,
0:05:57 > 0:06:01you are mistaken. It owes everything to her.
0:06:01 > 0:06:05Make it known, for without her, I am entirely unexceptional.
0:06:05 > 0:06:08Without her love,
0:06:08 > 0:06:10I'm nothing.
0:06:12 > 0:06:17All I know is, a serious shake-up in the Government looks inevitable.
0:06:17 > 0:06:21The Prime Minister was asking about you.
0:06:21 > 0:06:24Really? He's afraid you'll take his job!
0:06:24 > 0:06:27< Lady Markby. Mrs Cheveley.
0:06:33 > 0:06:36If I had a jewel for every staring eye!
0:06:36 > 0:06:40I'm glad to say, Lady Markby, you evidently do.
0:06:40 > 0:06:44Excuse me. Ah, chere Madame, quelle surprise!
0:06:44 > 0:06:47Lady Markby. I have not seen you since Berlin.
0:06:47 > 0:06:49Five years ago.
0:06:49 > 0:06:53You are younger and more beautiful. How do you do it?
0:06:53 > 0:06:57By only talking to charming people like yourself.
0:06:57 > 0:07:01Mrs Cheveley. What do we know about her?
0:07:01 > 0:07:07Very influential in Vienna. A force to be reckoned with.
0:07:07 > 0:07:12Are you staying long?
0:07:08 > 0:07:12It depends on the weather and the cooking
0:07:12 > 0:07:17- and on your brother. - Sir Robert's been dying to meet you.
0:07:17 > 0:07:22Everyone is. Our attaches in Vienna write to us about nothing else.
0:07:22 > 0:07:27An acquaintance that begins with a compliment becomes a friendship.
0:07:27 > 0:07:30- You've met my sister. - Yes, indeed.
0:07:30 > 0:07:37My dear child, allow me to introduce you to the Vicounte de Nanjac.
0:07:35 > 0:07:37Oh.
0:07:37 > 0:07:42You've a beautiful house.
0:07:39 > 0:07:42We're very happy here.
0:07:42 > 0:07:45- I'd so love to see it. - Allow me.
0:07:45 > 0:07:49Thank you.
0:07:46 > 0:07:49< Lord Goring.
0:07:55 > 0:07:56Good evening, young lady.
0:07:56 > 0:08:01What are you doing here? Wasting your life, as usual.
0:08:01 > 0:08:04You should be in bed. You keep too late hours.
0:08:04 > 0:08:06I heard you were dancing till four.
0:08:06 > 0:08:12Good evening, Father.
0:08:07 > 0:08:12Can't make out how you stand London. Nobodies talking about nothing.
0:08:12 > 0:08:16Talking about nothing is the only thing I know anything about.
0:08:16 > 0:08:21That's a paradox. I hate paradoxes.
0:08:18 > 0:08:21So do I, Father. Everyone one meets
0:08:21 > 0:08:25is a paradox. Makes society so obvious, hmm?
0:08:25 > 0:08:28Do you understand what you say?
0:08:28 > 0:08:32Yes, if I listen attentively. HE SHUDDERS
0:08:34 > 0:08:37Oh, conceited young puppy!
0:08:37 > 0:08:41I have it on good authority that you have Corots.
0:08:41 > 0:08:43Really? Whose?
0:08:43 > 0:08:45Baron Arnheim.
0:08:50 > 0:08:53- Did you know the Baron well? - Intimately. Did you?
0:08:53 > 0:08:58- At one time.- Wonderful man, wasn't he?- Remarkable.
0:08:58 > 0:09:00A pity he never wrote his memoirs.
0:09:00 > 0:09:02They would have been most interesting.
0:09:02 > 0:09:06Allow me to introduce the idlest man in London.
0:09:06 > 0:09:09- Good evening, Lord Goring. - You've met?
0:09:09 > 0:09:13I did not think you'd remember me, Mrs...Cheveley.
0:09:13 > 0:09:16My memory's under admirable control.
0:09:16 > 0:09:18The Indian Ambassador.
0:09:18 > 0:09:20Excuse me.
0:09:23 > 0:09:28Are you not just a little bit pleased to see me?
0:09:28 > 0:09:31Possibly even less than that.
0:09:31 > 0:09:37Should you wish to avoid me, I'll be staying at Claridge's until Friday.
0:09:37 > 0:09:40- THEY CHUCKLE - Are you still a bachelor?
0:09:40 > 0:09:44- Resolutely so. - He's the result of Boodle's Club.
0:09:44 > 0:09:48He reflects every credit on it.
0:09:46 > 0:09:48Thank you.
0:09:58 > 0:10:02And now, Sir Robert, I have something to say to you.
0:10:02 > 0:10:05You'll find me an eager audience.
0:10:05 > 0:10:07I'm so glad. I want to talk to you about
0:10:07 > 0:10:10a great political and financial scheme,
0:10:10 > 0:10:13about this Argentine canal company, in fact.
0:10:13 > 0:10:17What a tedious, practical subject to talk about.
0:10:17 > 0:10:21I like those. What I don't like are tedious, practical people.
0:10:21 > 0:10:26I know you are interested in international canal schemes.
0:10:26 > 0:10:28Yes.
0:10:28 > 0:10:33But the Suez Canal is a very great and splendid undertaking.
0:10:33 > 0:10:36It gave us a direct route to India.
0:10:36 > 0:10:40This Argentine scheme is a stock-exchange swindle.
0:10:40 > 0:10:43It is a brilliant, daring speculation.
0:10:43 > 0:10:47Believe me, Mrs Cheveley, it is a swindle.
0:10:47 > 0:10:52Let us call things by their proper names. It makes matters simpler.
0:10:52 > 0:10:57I hope you've not invested in it. You're too clever to have done that.
0:10:57 > 0:11:00I have invested very largely in it.
0:11:00 > 0:11:02Who advised you?
0:11:02 > 0:11:05Your old friend and mine - Baron Arnheim.
0:11:05 > 0:11:09It was one of the last things he said.
0:11:09 > 0:11:10Ah.
0:11:18 > 0:11:21The future of the canal depends on
0:11:21 > 0:11:24the attitude of Her Majesty's Government.
0:11:24 > 0:11:26And...
0:11:26 > 0:11:34I'll be presenting my report to the House of Commons on Thursday night.
0:11:34 > 0:11:36I can tell you now that I will be condemning the scheme
0:11:36 > 0:11:38in no uncertain terms.
0:11:38 > 0:11:44You must not. In your interests, to say nothing of mine, you must not.
0:11:44 > 0:11:47My dear Mrs Cheveley, what do you mean?
0:11:47 > 0:11:50Amend that report to state that the canal
0:11:50 > 0:11:52will be of great international value.
0:11:52 > 0:11:54Will you do that for me?
0:11:58 > 0:11:59You cannot be serious.
0:11:59 > 0:12:01I am quite serious.
0:12:01 > 0:12:04If you do what I ask, I will pay you very handsomely.
0:12:04 > 0:12:06Pay me?
0:12:06 > 0:12:11You are a man of the world and you have your price. Everybody has.
0:12:11 > 0:12:16I will call your carriage for you. You have lived so long abroad
0:12:16 > 0:12:20that you don't realise that I am an English gentleman.
0:12:20 > 0:12:27I realise you're a man whose past is less perfect than his reputation.
0:12:29 > 0:12:31What are you saying?
0:12:31 > 0:12:37I know the real origin of your wealth, and I have got your letter.
0:12:40 > 0:12:42You are very late.
0:12:42 > 0:12:44- Miss me?- Awfully.
0:12:44 > 0:12:47Sorry I wasn't later. I like being missed.
0:12:47 > 0:12:50- How very selfish.- I am very selfish.
0:12:50 > 0:12:52You're always telling me about your bad qualities.
0:12:52 > 0:12:54I haven't told you the half of them.
0:12:54 > 0:12:56Are they very bad?
0:12:56 > 0:13:01Quite dreadful. When I think of them at night, I go to sleep at once.
0:13:01 > 0:13:07I like your bad qualities and I'd not have you part with a single one.
0:13:07 > 0:13:10This shows your admirable good taste.
0:13:10 > 0:13:14May I escort you to the music room?
0:13:11 > 0:13:14I'd be delighted.
0:13:14 > 0:13:16- As, indeed, would I.- Coming?
0:13:16 > 0:13:20Not if there's any music going on.
0:13:20 > 0:13:24The music is in German, so you would not understand it.
0:13:24 > 0:13:27Quite so, quite so.
0:13:27 > 0:13:30- Arthur! - Gertrude, good evening.
0:13:30 > 0:13:33You like political parties?
0:13:33 > 0:13:36I adore them. They're the only place where people don't talk politics.
0:13:39 > 0:13:43The affair to which you allude was no more than a speculation.
0:13:43 > 0:13:49A swindle. Call things by their proper names. It makes it simpler.
0:13:49 > 0:13:52I'll sell you that letter back,
0:13:52 > 0:13:56and the price is your public support of the Argentine scheme.
0:13:58 > 0:14:00I cannot do what you ask me.
0:14:00 > 0:14:05You're standing on the edge of a precipice. Supposing you refuse?
0:14:05 > 0:14:07What then?
0:14:07 > 0:14:13Suppose I pay a visit to a newspaper office and give them this scandal.
0:14:13 > 0:14:17Think of the delight they'd have in tearing you down.
0:14:17 > 0:14:21Think of... Sir Edward?
0:14:18 > 0:14:21My dear Mrs Cheveley.
0:14:21 > 0:14:26I hope we have the opportunity to meet up. I enjoy the cut and thrust
0:14:26 > 0:14:30of continental politics.
0:14:27 > 0:14:30I shall make it a priority.
0:14:30 > 0:14:32Sir Robert.
0:14:38 > 0:14:42It is infamous what you propose. Infamous.
0:14:42 > 0:14:47Oh, no, it is the game of life, Sir Robert. As we all have to play it.
0:14:47 > 0:14:50Sooner or later.
0:15:11 > 0:15:15What a charming house. A delightful evening.
0:15:15 > 0:15:17I'm so glad.
0:15:17 > 0:15:21I'm so glad you met my husband.
0:15:21 > 0:15:23Though...
0:15:23 > 0:15:27I confess to some curiosity as to the matter of your conversation.
0:15:27 > 0:15:30Your carriage is waiting.
0:15:30 > 0:15:34Thanks. Another time. Good evening.
0:15:34 > 0:15:36Good evening.
0:15:36 > 0:15:39Will you see me out, Sir Robert?
0:15:39 > 0:15:43Now that we have the same interests at heart, we'll be great friends.
0:15:43 > 0:15:46Certainly.
0:15:52 > 0:15:55Let me have more time to consider your proposal.
0:15:55 > 0:15:56There is nothing to consider.
0:15:56 > 0:15:59Support the scheme and I will return the letter.
0:15:59 > 0:16:02Scandals used to lend charm to a man,
0:16:02 > 0:16:06nowadays they crush him. Yours is a very nasty scandal.
0:16:06 > 0:16:11You would be hounded out of public life. You'd disappear completely.
0:16:11 > 0:16:13My God!
0:16:13 > 0:16:16What brought you into my life?
0:16:16 > 0:16:19Circumstances. At some point,
0:16:19 > 0:16:22we all have to pay for what we do. You have to pay now.
0:16:24 > 0:16:27(I will give you any sum of money you want.)
0:16:27 > 0:16:31Even you are not rich enough to buy back your past.
0:16:31 > 0:16:33No man is.
0:16:53 > 0:16:57Father, this is not my day for talking seriously.
0:16:57 > 0:17:03- What do you mean?- I talk seriously on the first Tuesday of the month,
0:17:03 > 0:17:05between noon and three.
0:17:05 > 0:17:07Well, make it Tuesday, sir.
0:17:07 > 0:17:09That is before noon, Father.
0:17:09 > 0:17:12I'm sorry, but my doctor said specifically.
0:17:12 > 0:17:15You are 36.
0:17:13 > 0:17:15Shh! Father!
0:17:15 > 0:17:17I only admit to 32.
0:17:17 > 0:17:21- You are 36, you must get a wife. - Wife?
0:17:21 > 0:17:24HE LAUGHS
0:17:24 > 0:17:28A shade lacklustre this morning, Chiltern.
0:17:31 > 0:17:34Mind on other matters, I shouldn't wonder.
0:17:36 > 0:17:39Mrs Cheveley came by the office last night.
0:17:39 > 0:17:43Really?
0:17:41 > 0:17:43Yes.
0:17:43 > 0:17:48Wanted me to write a piece about this Argentine thing.
0:17:48 > 0:17:52Quite interesting, really. Mentioned you.
0:17:52 > 0:17:56Did she?
0:17:53 > 0:17:56She did, indeed.
0:17:58 > 0:18:00What did she say?
0:18:00 > 0:18:06Outlined the virtues of the scheme. She probably has shares in it.
0:18:06 > 0:18:09What did she say about me?
0:18:09 > 0:18:15About your speech on it. Said I'd be surprised. Wouldn't say what.
0:18:15 > 0:18:19Can I take it you've changed your position?
0:18:28 > 0:18:31I wonder what kind of a woman she is.
0:18:31 > 0:18:33Who?
0:18:33 > 0:18:35Mrs Cheveley.
0:18:35 > 0:18:38Hmm, smallish.
0:18:38 > 0:18:42The question remains, where to from there, hmm?
0:18:42 > 0:18:45To the Hartlocks, then the Basildons...
0:18:45 > 0:18:49Or should we go straight to the ball?
0:18:49 > 0:18:51I almost wish I were you sometimes.
0:18:51 > 0:18:53I almost wish you were too.
0:18:53 > 0:18:57Except that you'd probably do something useful, that'd never do.
0:18:57 > 0:19:02You could always get married.
0:18:59 > 0:19:02It's the 'always' bit that alarms me.
0:19:04 > 0:19:07I could see that he was about to do it again.
0:19:07 > 0:19:10Poor Mr Trafford.
0:19:10 > 0:19:13- It sounds quite serious. - Oh, it is.
0:19:13 > 0:19:18He proposed to me in broad daylight, in front of the statue of Achilles.
0:19:18 > 0:19:22The things that go on in front of that are quite appalling!
0:19:22 > 0:19:25- The police should interfere.- Ahem...
0:19:25 > 0:19:29It may not suit a modern girl like you,
0:19:29 > 0:19:31but there is one effective way
0:19:31 > 0:19:34to put a stop to his proposals.
0:19:34 > 0:19:37- Which is? - Accept one of them.
0:19:37 > 0:19:41Oh, no!
0:19:38 > 0:19:40Ladies!
0:19:42 > 0:19:46By the way, have you been talking to my father?
0:19:46 > 0:19:49Should I?
0:19:47 > 0:19:49Certainly not.
0:19:49 > 0:19:53He suggested that I model myself on you.
0:19:53 > 0:19:57Your father has exquisite taste and rare judgement.
0:19:57 > 0:20:00Hard work, probity, and a good woman.
0:20:00 > 0:20:05He forgot that you took the last good woman. Took her right out of my arms.
0:20:05 > 0:20:10What is that saying about the sea and plenty of fish in it?
0:20:10 > 0:20:14Yes, but I couldn't possibly marry a fish.
0:20:14 > 0:20:17I'd be sure to land an old trout.
0:20:17 > 0:20:21I never change, except in my affection.
0:20:21 > 0:20:25What a noble nature you have.
0:20:23 > 0:20:25LAUGHTER
0:20:25 > 0:20:28You told me yesterday.
0:20:28 > 0:20:32The information I received was prejudiced.
0:20:32 > 0:20:36Or, at any rate, misinformed.
0:20:34 > 0:20:36But I...
0:20:36 > 0:20:39There may be some benefit to the scheme.
0:20:37 > 0:20:39Benefit?
0:20:39 > 0:20:42To whom?
0:20:43 > 0:20:47This has nothing to do with Mrs Cheveley, does it?
0:20:47 > 0:20:49LAUGHTER
0:20:53 > 0:20:58On the contrary. I've now realised, for the first time in my life, >
0:20:58 > 0:21:02the vital importance of being earnest. >
0:21:02 > 0:21:06LAUGHTER
0:21:04 > 0:21:06Robert,
0:21:06 > 0:21:09you are telling me the whole truth?
0:21:09 > 0:21:13Why do you ask me such a question?
0:21:16 > 0:21:18Why do you not answer it?
0:21:18 > 0:21:20APPLAUSE
0:21:22 > 0:21:24CHEERING
0:21:29 > 0:21:31Ladies and gentlemen,
0:21:31 > 0:21:34I have enjoyed this evening immensely...
0:21:36 > 0:21:38Robert,
0:21:38 > 0:21:41is there in your life any...
0:21:42 > 0:21:45..any secret, any...
0:21:45 > 0:21:47indiscretion?
0:21:47 > 0:21:50..Which persuades me >
0:21:50 > 0:21:53that you think as highly of the play as I do.
0:21:53 > 0:21:56- Ha-ha!- You must tell me at once.
0:21:56 > 0:22:00There is nothing in my past life that you might not know.
0:22:00 > 0:22:02APPLAUSE AND CHEERING
0:22:04 > 0:22:07I was sure of it, my darling.
0:22:07 > 0:22:09I was sure of it.
0:22:15 > 0:22:17UPBEAT MUSIC PLAYS
0:22:35 > 0:22:40I found it a perfectly charming evening, of course I did.
0:22:40 > 0:22:43And yours was a perfectly charming performance.
0:22:43 > 0:22:47The costumes were delightful. But for me, it was the acting.
0:22:52 > 0:22:54Would you excuse me a moment?
0:22:56 > 0:22:59- Miss Mabel? - Good evening, Lord Goring.
0:22:59 > 0:23:01- Shouldn't you be in bed? - Lord Goring!
0:23:01 > 0:23:05My father is always advising me to go to bed.
0:23:05 > 0:23:08I always pass on good advice.
0:23:08 > 0:23:12It's very kind of you to offer.
0:23:10 > 0:23:12Don't mention it.
0:23:12 > 0:23:17The role of elder brother is being adequately performed by my brother.
0:23:17 > 0:23:19Oh, really?
0:23:19 > 0:23:24Yes. Charming and delightful performance it is, too.
0:23:24 > 0:23:27You ought to go to bed straightaway.
0:23:27 > 0:23:30You're ordering me around...
0:23:30 > 0:23:33It is most courageous of you.
0:23:35 > 0:23:38Especially as I'm not going to bed for hours.
0:23:56 > 0:24:01Darling, you will write, won't you, to Mrs Cheveley?
0:24:01 > 0:24:05Tell her that you cannot support her scheme.
0:24:05 > 0:24:09I might see her. Perhaps that would be better.
0:24:09 > 0:24:12Oh, no. You must never see her again.
0:24:12 > 0:24:16I know this woman. We were at school together.
0:24:16 > 0:24:19I didn't trust her then and I don't now.
0:24:19 > 0:24:24She must know at once that she has been mistaken in you.
0:24:24 > 0:24:29All your life, you have stood apart from others.
0:24:29 > 0:24:33To the world, as to myself,
0:24:33 > 0:24:36you have been an ideal. Always.
0:24:38 > 0:24:40Be that ideal still.
0:24:56 > 0:24:58Claridge's Hotel. No answer.
0:24:58 > 0:25:00Sir.
0:25:08 > 0:25:11Oh, I love you, Robert.
0:25:11 > 0:25:14Oh, love me.
0:25:22 > 0:25:23Love me, Gertrude.
0:25:25 > 0:25:28Love me always.
0:25:28 > 0:25:31NEIGHING
0:25:31 > 0:25:32< Oi!
0:25:49 > 0:25:51Madam.
0:25:51 > 0:25:56What is it that brings you back to London? Business or pleasure?
0:25:56 > 0:26:02I have some business with Sir Robert Chiltern, which is a great pleasure.
0:26:07 > 0:26:12- And what brings you here tonight? - I came because you asked me to.
0:26:12 > 0:26:14- And you were curious?- I suppose.
0:26:14 > 0:26:19- Why did you ask me? - I was curious to see if you'd come.
0:26:19 > 0:26:23- And you did.- You are quite as wilful as you used to be.
0:26:23 > 0:26:26Far more. I have greatly improved, I have had more experience.
0:26:26 > 0:26:30Too much experience can be very dangerous, Mrs Cheveley.
0:26:30 > 0:26:33- Call me Laura. - I don't like the name.
0:26:33 > 0:26:36- You used to adore it. - Yes, that is why.
0:26:36 > 0:26:39It was so nearly Laura Goring.
0:26:39 > 0:26:42- It has a certain ring, don't you agree?- Mmm.
0:26:42 > 0:26:44We were quite well suited.
0:26:44 > 0:26:48You were poor, I was rich, it must have suited you very well.
0:26:48 > 0:26:52Until you met the Baron. He was richer, that suited you better.
0:26:52 > 0:26:55Have you forgiven me yet?
0:26:55 > 0:26:59It's been so long that I'd all but forgotten you.
0:26:59 > 0:27:04I'm afraid I really must go. I have an extremely pressing engagement.
0:27:04 > 0:27:10Really? As you know, I hate to stand between a man and his affairs.
0:27:13 > 0:27:16NEIGHING AND CLATTER OF HORSES' HOOVES
0:27:21 > 0:27:23Come on, Bunbury!
0:27:23 > 0:27:25I can't believe it.
0:27:25 > 0:27:26You are a deserter, sir.
0:27:26 > 0:27:30I didn't say I would marry, I was merely debating its virtues.
0:27:30 > 0:27:34Short debate, sir.
0:27:34 > 0:27:37We're a dying breed. We should stick together.
0:27:37 > 0:27:40Would you excuse me, gentlemen? Play the next hand without me.
0:27:50 > 0:27:53'And now I think it's time you knew the truth.'
0:27:53 > 0:27:57That all these riches, this wondrous luxury...
0:28:00 > 0:28:02..amounts, finally, to nothing.
0:28:02 > 0:28:05And that power
0:28:05 > 0:28:07over other men
0:28:07 > 0:28:10is the only thing worth having.
0:28:10 > 0:28:15And this is what I call the philosophy of power.
0:28:17 > 0:28:20Gospel of gold.
0:28:20 > 0:28:24So now the question arises,
0:28:24 > 0:28:26how do you become powerful?
0:28:26 > 0:28:30I mean you, personally powerful... Cigar?
0:28:32 > 0:28:34Yes, thank you.
0:28:36 > 0:28:39The answer is simple.
0:28:39 > 0:28:42The answer is information.
0:28:42 > 0:28:45Information is the modern commodity
0:28:45 > 0:28:48that can shake the world.
0:28:48 > 0:28:54And I happen to know it's well within your grasp.
0:28:56 > 0:28:58And you believed what he said?
0:29:00 > 0:29:04Certainly. I believed it then and I believe it now.
0:29:07 > 0:29:09You've never been poor.
0:29:09 > 0:29:12You've never known ambition.
0:29:13 > 0:29:15Go on.
0:29:15 > 0:29:19Lord Radley was a Cabinet Minister
0:29:19 > 0:29:23and the Baron knew I was his personal secretary.
0:29:23 > 0:29:27One night, as usual, I was the last to leave the office.
0:29:35 > 0:29:38Later that evening,
0:29:38 > 0:29:42I wrote the Baron a letter containing confidential information.
0:29:42 > 0:29:44Highly valuable information,
0:29:44 > 0:29:47regarding the financing of the Suez Canal.
0:29:47 > 0:29:50A Cabinet secret?
0:29:50 > 0:29:52Indeed.
0:29:52 > 0:29:58The Baron made for himself three quarters of a million pounds.
0:29:58 > 0:30:00And you?
0:30:00 > 0:30:03I received from the Baron £110,000.
0:30:06 > 0:30:09You were worth more, Robert.
0:30:09 > 0:30:11No. No, no, no.
0:30:11 > 0:30:13I got exactly what I wanted.
0:30:13 > 0:30:16I entered straight into Parliament, and I've...
0:30:16 > 0:30:19never looked back.
0:30:19 > 0:30:24Is it fair that some act of youthful folly is brought up against me now?
0:30:24 > 0:30:26Is it fair?
0:30:26 > 0:30:31Life is not fair. Perhaps it's a good thing for most of us that it's not.
0:30:31 > 0:30:33What does Gertrude make of all this?
0:30:36 > 0:30:39Robert?
0:30:41 > 0:30:44My dear Robert, secrets from other people's wives
0:30:44 > 0:30:47are a necessary luxury in modern life.
0:30:47 > 0:30:50But no man should have a secret from his own wife.
0:30:50 > 0:30:53She will find out.
0:30:53 > 0:30:57If I told her, I'd lose the love of the woman I worship.
0:30:57 > 0:31:02I couldn't tell her, but it did strike me that perhaps you might.
0:31:04 > 0:31:06Go on.
0:31:06 > 0:31:09Perhaps you might...talk with her?
0:31:09 > 0:31:11Oh, really?
0:31:11 > 0:31:13Not to tell her.
0:31:13 > 0:31:16But just to talk with her.
0:31:16 > 0:31:18I see.
0:31:18 > 0:31:22It's just that Gertrude can be a little hard-headed.
0:31:22 > 0:31:28You are her oldest, closest friend, I thought talking with you might...
0:31:28 > 0:31:31- Soften her head?- Hmm.
0:31:31 > 0:31:33Well, it has been known.
0:31:38 > 0:31:40Thank you, Lady Chiltern, that was most inspiring.
0:31:40 > 0:31:43Oh, I'm so glad.
0:31:45 > 0:31:47Wonderful speech.
0:31:51 > 0:31:57I'm delighted to find you showing such interest in women's politics.
0:31:57 > 0:32:02Ahem... Yes, very keen. I'm afraid I had a late night last night.
0:32:02 > 0:32:05So I gather. I'm glad to see you.
0:32:05 > 0:32:08- Are you? - Yes. I want to talk about Robert.
0:32:08 > 0:32:10Really?
0:32:10 > 0:32:14He seems a little distracted, a little anxious.
0:32:14 > 0:32:17- Yes. - You've noticed it too?
0:32:18 > 0:32:22I suppose... Yes. In a way.
0:32:22 > 0:32:25The life that he's chosen,
0:32:25 > 0:32:31by its own nature, holds innumerable stresses. Full of compromises.
0:32:31 > 0:32:33- Compromises?- Yes.
0:32:33 > 0:32:39Once a man has set his heart and soul on getting to a certain point,
0:32:39 > 0:32:44if he has to climb the crag, he has to climb the crag.
0:32:44 > 0:32:47And if he has to walk in the mire...
0:32:47 > 0:32:49Well?
0:32:49 > 0:32:52He has to walk in the mire.
0:32:52 > 0:32:57I'm talking in general terms, and on a subject about which I know nothing.
0:32:57 > 0:33:00I thought those are your favourite subjects.
0:33:00 > 0:33:03Yes, indeed.
0:33:03 > 0:33:05Indeed.
0:33:05 > 0:33:08- Go on. - Oh, yes. No, um...
0:33:08 > 0:33:14Suppose a public figure, er, Lord Merton or my father, or even Robert,
0:33:14 > 0:33:17had written some foolish letter.
0:33:17 > 0:33:20What do you mean by a foolish letter?
0:33:20 > 0:33:26Well, a letter gravely compromising one's position.
0:33:26 > 0:33:28It's an imaginary case, of course.
0:33:28 > 0:33:31I cannot help but feel, Arthur,
0:33:31 > 0:33:33that you are wanting to tell me something.
0:33:38 > 0:33:42What I really want to say, dear Gertrude, is...
0:33:42 > 0:33:45that if, for any reason, you are ever in trouble,
0:33:45 > 0:33:50come to me at once and know that I will help you in every way I can.
0:33:50 > 0:33:52Lord Goring,
0:33:52 > 0:33:56you are talking quite seriously.
0:33:56 > 0:34:00- Forgive me, it won't occur again. - No, I like you to be serious.
0:34:00 > 0:34:05Gertrude, please don't say such dreadful things to Lord Goring.
0:34:05 > 0:34:07Seriousness would be very unbecoming to him.
0:34:07 > 0:34:10Good morning. Pray be as trivial as you can.
0:34:10 > 0:34:15I'd like to, but I'm out of practice this morning. Besides, I ought to go.
0:34:15 > 0:34:19- Oh. Will you be there tonight? - I have received no invitation.
0:34:19 > 0:34:25You have now. I'm sorry, Mabel, I'm not in the mood for modern art.
0:34:25 > 0:34:29You don't mind, do you, if Arthur escorts you in my place?
0:34:29 > 0:34:33As long as he's not too serious, for I've observed a worrying trend.
0:34:33 > 0:34:37I swear to be utterly trivial and never to keep my word.
0:34:37 > 0:34:43Then I shall be delighted.
0:34:39 > 0:34:43So shall I. Gertrude, thank you.
0:34:45 > 0:34:47Remember what I said, won't you?
0:34:47 > 0:34:50Yes, but I still don't know why you said it.
0:34:50 > 0:34:54I hardly know myself. Goodbye, Miss Mabel.
0:34:54 > 0:34:56Lord Goring?
0:34:57 > 0:34:59Lord Goring?
0:34:59 > 0:35:04What dreadful manners, leaving as I arrive. You were badly brought up.
0:35:04 > 0:35:08- Hmm, I was. - I wish I had brought you up.
0:35:08 > 0:35:12- I'm sorry you didn't. - It is too late now, I suppose?
0:35:12 > 0:35:14I shouldn't think so for a moment.
0:35:20 > 0:35:22So.
0:35:23 > 0:35:25- So. - SHE COUGHS
0:35:27 > 0:35:29Till tonight, then.
0:35:29 > 0:35:31Eight o'clock.
0:35:31 > 0:35:34Eight o'clock.
0:35:42 > 0:35:43So?
0:35:44 > 0:35:45So.
0:35:48 > 0:35:53"My dear Sir Robert, I must confess to being not a little disappointed
0:35:53 > 0:35:57"to learn that my proposition held no interest for you.
0:35:57 > 0:36:02"Perhaps I failed to present it in attractive or persuasive terms.
0:36:02 > 0:36:07"Another time, perhaps. Yours sincerely, Laura Cheveley.
0:36:07 > 0:36:10"PS - If I am in the neighbourhood,
0:36:10 > 0:36:14"I may pay my respects to your charming wife.
0:36:14 > 0:36:17"I wonder whether the matter would be of any interest to her?"
0:36:21 > 0:36:26- Mrs Cheveley, won't you sit down? - Thanks.
0:36:26 > 0:36:30I can't help feeling that this disturbing new thing,
0:36:30 > 0:36:32this higher education of women,
0:36:32 > 0:36:35will deal a terrible blow to happy married life.
0:36:35 > 0:36:39Men need higher education, so sadly.
0:36:39 > 0:36:43They do. But such a scheme would be unpractical.
0:36:43 > 0:36:48Man hasn't much capacity to develop. He's got as far as he can. Not far.
0:36:48 > 0:36:54With regard to women, modern women understand everything, I'm told.
0:36:54 > 0:36:58Except their husbands. That is the one thing they never understand.
0:36:58 > 0:37:00And a very good thing too,
0:37:00 > 0:37:06it might break up many a happy home if they did. Not yours, Gertrude.
0:37:06 > 0:37:10You have married a perfect husband.
0:37:11 > 0:37:13And now, dear ladies, I had better set forth.
0:37:13 > 0:37:16I haven't time to be idling around here,
0:37:16 > 0:37:20I should be idling around somewhere else very shortly.
0:37:20 > 0:37:25I'll see myself out. No doubt you both have pleasant reminiscences
0:37:25 > 0:37:28of your school days to talk over.
0:37:28 > 0:37:30- Goodbye.- Goodbye, my dear.
0:37:35 > 0:37:37Wonderful woman, Lady Markby, isn't she?
0:37:37 > 0:37:42Talks more and says less than anybody I ever met. Now, Gertrude...
0:37:42 > 0:37:44Mrs Cheveley,
0:37:44 > 0:37:49it is right to tell you that I wish you never to return to this house.
0:37:49 > 0:37:53And never attempt to contact my husband.
0:37:53 > 0:37:57- You have not changed a bit. - I hope I never will.
0:37:57 > 0:38:01- Life's taught you nothing? - A person who was once guilty
0:38:01 > 0:38:03of a dishonest action
0:38:03 > 0:38:05may be guilty of it a second time and should be shunned.
0:38:05 > 0:38:09Would you apply that rule to everyone?
0:38:09 > 0:38:11Yes, without exception.
0:38:11 > 0:38:15Then I am sorry for you. Very sorry for you.
0:38:15 > 0:38:18I thank you for your sympathy,
0:38:18 > 0:38:21but it is your departure I would prefer.
0:38:23 > 0:38:25I don't mind your talking morality a bit.
0:38:25 > 0:38:30Morality is the attitude we adopt towards people we dislike.
0:38:30 > 0:38:34You dislike me. I'm aware of that. And I have always detested you.
0:38:34 > 0:38:37Yet, I have come here to give you some advice.
0:38:37 > 0:38:41I hold your husband in the hollow of my hand.
0:38:41 > 0:38:44If you are wise, you'll make him do what I say.
0:38:44 > 0:38:48How dare you class my husband with yourself?!
0:38:48 > 0:38:52Leave my house! You are unfit to enter it.
0:38:52 > 0:38:57Your house? A house bought with the price of dishonour?
0:38:57 > 0:39:02Everything in which was paid for by fraud. Ask HIM about his fortune.
0:39:02 > 0:39:07Get him to tell you how he sold to a stockbroker a Cabinet secret.
0:39:07 > 0:39:11Learn from him to what you owe your position.
0:39:11 > 0:39:13It is not true.
0:39:13 > 0:39:16Robert, tell her it is not true.
0:39:21 > 0:39:23Go.
0:39:26 > 0:39:30Go at once. You've done your worst now.
0:39:39 > 0:39:41Dear Sir Robert, Lady Chiltern,
0:39:41 > 0:39:46unless you meet my terms, you'll find the worst is yet to come.
0:39:46 > 0:39:48You have until half past ten tonight.
0:39:54 > 0:39:56Tell me it is not true.
0:39:59 > 0:40:02- Let me explain. - Tell me it is not true!
0:40:02 > 0:40:05- Please. - No...
0:40:05 > 0:40:08- Don't touch me. - Listen to me.
0:40:08 > 0:40:11How could you do that, Robert?!
0:40:11 > 0:40:13You've lied...to the whole world.
0:40:13 > 0:40:18You will not lie to me.
0:40:16 > 0:40:18Please, I must tell you.
0:40:18 > 0:40:20Don't say anything.
0:40:26 > 0:40:31You were, to me, something apart from common life.
0:40:31 > 0:40:35A thing noble, pure.
0:40:38 > 0:40:40The world seemed to me finer
0:40:40 > 0:40:43because you were in it.
0:40:43 > 0:40:45Goodness more real because you lived.
0:40:51 > 0:40:53I'm sorry.
0:40:56 > 0:40:58So very sorry.
0:41:05 > 0:41:08I suppose I should go.
0:41:08 > 0:41:10Should I?
0:41:21 > 0:41:22Go.
0:41:25 > 0:41:26Get out!
0:42:08 > 0:42:13My second buttonhole. Much better. Do you know, Phipps,
0:42:13 > 0:42:16a really well-made buttonhole
0:42:16 > 0:42:19is the only link between art and nature.
0:42:19 > 0:42:21Yes, m'Lord.
0:42:25 > 0:42:27I don't think I quite like this one.
0:42:27 > 0:42:30- Hmm?- No.
0:42:30 > 0:42:35Makes me look a little old. Makes me almost in the prime of life, eh?
0:42:35 > 0:42:40I don't observe any alteration in your appearance.
0:42:40 > 0:42:42You don't?
0:42:42 > 0:42:44No, m'Lord.
0:42:44 > 0:42:46Hmm. Very well.
0:42:50 > 0:42:52BELL RINGS
0:42:52 > 0:42:54Oh, God!
0:42:54 > 0:42:56Father, how delightful to see you.
0:42:56 > 0:42:57Take my cloak off.
0:42:57 > 0:43:00- Is it really worthwhile, Father? - Of course it is, sir.
0:43:00 > 0:43:05I've recently made the resolution not to have visitors on Thursday,
0:43:05 > 0:43:07between seven and nine.
0:43:07 > 0:43:11Good. Can't stand interruption. No draught, I hope?
0:43:11 > 0:43:13No, sir.
0:43:13 > 0:43:15I feel a draught, sir.
0:43:15 > 0:43:19So do I, sir. Why don't you go home?
0:43:19 > 0:43:22I will come and see you tomorrow.
0:43:22 > 0:43:26No, sir. I've called with a definite purpose.
0:43:26 > 0:43:29I'll see it through, at all cost to my health or yours.
0:43:29 > 0:43:32- Put my cloak down, sir. - BELL RINGS
0:43:32 > 0:43:33I hate seeing things through, Father,
0:43:33 > 0:43:37especially through someone else's eyes.
0:43:37 > 0:43:39I don't follow you.
0:43:39 > 0:43:41You seem to follow me everywhere, Father.
0:43:44 > 0:43:47(Oh, God.)
0:43:45 > 0:43:47Good evening.
0:43:47 > 0:43:51My dear Robert, I really am horribly busy tonight.
0:43:51 > 0:43:54But, Arthur, I must speak with you.
0:43:54 > 0:43:57Gertrude has discovered the truth?
0:43:57 > 0:43:59Yes, I'm afraid she has.
0:44:01 > 0:44:06Come in. But if you wouldn't mind waiting for a while,
0:44:06 > 0:44:11I'm right in the middle of giving my performance of the attentive son.
0:44:11 > 0:44:13Oh, I'm sorry.
0:44:13 > 0:44:15So am I.
0:44:15 > 0:44:17BELL RINGS
0:44:22 > 0:44:24HE SIGHS
0:44:24 > 0:44:26God!
0:44:26 > 0:44:29"When you left this afternoon, my life fell apart.
0:44:29 > 0:44:31"My love is in ruins.
0:44:31 > 0:44:37"I need you, after all. I am coming to you now. Gertrude."
0:44:37 > 0:44:42A lady's coming to see me. Show her into the drawing room. Understand?
0:44:42 > 0:44:44Yes, m'Lord.
0:44:44 > 0:44:48It's a matter of grave importance.
0:44:46 > 0:44:48I understand.
0:44:48 > 0:44:52No-one else is to be admitted. Say I'm not at home.
0:44:52 > 0:44:55I understand.
0:44:53 > 0:44:55Arthur?
0:44:55 > 0:44:57Yes, Father.
0:44:57 > 0:44:59BELL RINGS
0:45:04 > 0:45:06Good evening, Phipps.
0:45:07 > 0:45:10How nice to see you again, madam.
0:45:15 > 0:45:19His Lordship is engaged with Lord Caversham.
0:45:19 > 0:45:22How very filial.
0:45:22 > 0:45:27His Lordship told me to ask you to wait in the drawing room for him.
0:45:27 > 0:45:30His Lordship will come to you there.
0:45:30 > 0:45:33He expects me?
0:45:33 > 0:45:34Yes, madam.
0:45:34 > 0:45:36Are you quite sure?
0:45:36 > 0:45:40His Lordship's directions were very precise.
0:45:40 > 0:45:44That lamp is far too glaring. Light some candles.
0:45:44 > 0:45:47Certainly, madam.
0:45:47 > 0:45:49Marriage is not about affection, sir.
0:45:49 > 0:45:52It is a question of common sense.
0:45:52 > 0:45:56Women who have common sense are always so plain, aren't they?
0:45:56 > 0:45:59That's only hearsay.
0:45:59 > 0:46:03Women don't have any common sense. That is a privilege of our sex.
0:46:03 > 0:46:06Quite so. Men are so wonderfully self-sacrificing,
0:46:06 > 0:46:07we never use it, do we, Father?
0:46:07 > 0:46:10I use it, sir. I use nothing else.
0:46:10 > 0:46:14Mmm. So my mother tells me.
0:46:11 > 0:46:14It is the secret of her happiness.
0:46:14 > 0:46:16What was that?
0:46:18 > 0:46:21Nothing, Father. Nothing.
0:46:21 > 0:46:25You are heartless. Very heartless.
0:46:23 > 0:46:25I hope not, Father.
0:46:31 > 0:46:33"When you left this afternoon,
0:46:33 > 0:46:35"my life fell apart.
0:46:41 > 0:46:44"I am coming to you now. Gertrude."
0:46:44 > 0:46:47There we are, madam.
0:46:53 > 0:46:55- Thank you. - Thank you, madam.
0:47:00 > 0:47:02BELL RINGS
0:47:08 > 0:47:10BELL RINGS
0:47:17 > 0:47:20His Lordship's not at home this evening.
0:47:23 > 0:47:27- I see. - I'm sorry, Lady Chiltern.
0:47:27 > 0:47:29Not at all.
0:47:38 > 0:47:41As you keep saying.
0:47:41 > 0:47:44Is she in there?
0:47:44 > 0:47:46Yes, m'Lord.
0:47:51 > 0:47:52Oh, my dear fellow.
0:47:52 > 0:47:56I'm sorry, Arthur. I didn't know where else to go.
0:47:57 > 0:47:59Hmm?
0:48:04 > 0:48:06I don't know what to do, Arthur.
0:48:06 > 0:48:12Robert, last night, you were telling me how much Gertrude means to you.
0:48:12 > 0:48:14How much you love her.
0:48:14 > 0:48:17More than anything in the world.
0:48:17 > 0:48:23There is a wide gulf between us now. I fear I shall never bridge it.
0:48:23 > 0:48:26I fear she will never forgive me.
0:48:26 > 0:48:30Surely there must be some sin in her past life, any sin,
0:48:30 > 0:48:34weakness that might help her to understand yours.
0:48:34 > 0:48:37She doesn't know weakness or temptation.
0:48:37 > 0:48:42But she loves you. She cannot but forgive you.
0:48:42 > 0:48:47I wish she could hear you, the regret that you feel about your past...
0:48:47 > 0:48:49Regret?
0:48:49 > 0:48:55Yes, regret. I feel certain that she'd pity you.
0:48:55 > 0:48:59Perhaps at this moment, she is pitying you. Praying that
0:48:59 > 0:49:02she might once again be in your arms.
0:49:02 > 0:49:04God grant it. But I doubt it.
0:49:04 > 0:49:08There is something else I need to tell you.
0:49:08 > 0:49:13The debate on the Argentine canal is to begin at 10:30.
0:49:13 > 0:49:16I have made up my mind what to say.
0:49:16 > 0:49:18I've decided...
0:49:18 > 0:49:20CHAIR SQUEAKS
0:49:24 > 0:49:26What was that?
0:49:26 > 0:49:29Nothing.
0:49:29 > 0:49:33I heard a noise from next door.
0:49:31 > 0:49:33No, you didn't.
0:49:33 > 0:49:38CHAIR CREAKS
0:49:35 > 0:49:38Is there someone there?
0:49:40 > 0:49:42- Arthur? - You're excited, unnerved.
0:49:42 > 0:49:45There is no-one in that room. Now, sit down!
0:49:45 > 0:49:50Do you give me your word of honour?
0:49:47 > 0:49:50Yes!
0:49:51 > 0:49:53Let me look for myself.
0:49:53 > 0:49:57- Robert...- If there is no-one there, why shouldn't I look?
0:49:57 > 0:49:59There is someone in that room.
0:50:03 > 0:50:08I apologise, but I must state she is entirely guiltless in this matter.
0:50:08 > 0:50:12She is scheming, devious and deceitful.
0:50:12 > 0:50:14- Pardon? - You...
0:50:14 > 0:50:19You are false as a friend and treacherous.
0:50:19 > 0:50:23- Robert! - Good evening, Lord Goring.
0:50:23 > 0:50:27- Sir Robert. - How do you explain her presence?
0:50:29 > 0:50:32To be quite honest, I can't.
0:50:32 > 0:50:35I take it you two planned this?
0:50:35 > 0:50:37We have never planned anything!
0:50:37 > 0:50:42Except marriage. You didn't forget we were engaged for three weeks?
0:50:42 > 0:50:43Yes, but...
0:50:43 > 0:50:45I find it hard to see
0:50:45 > 0:50:49why you broke it off. You are entirely well suited.
0:50:49 > 0:50:53I give you my word...
0:50:51 > 0:50:53No, sir.
0:50:53 > 0:50:56Oh, no, sir.
0:50:56 > 0:50:59You have lied enough upon your word of honour.
0:51:03 > 0:51:05DOOR CLOSES
0:51:05 > 0:51:09I appear to have caused something of a commotion.
0:51:12 > 0:51:14Good night, Sir Robert.
0:51:29 > 0:51:35You've come here to sell me Robert Chiltern's letter.
0:51:35 > 0:51:39To offer it to you on condition. How did you guess?
0:51:39 > 0:51:42What is your price?
0:51:42 > 0:51:46My price... I have arrived at the romantic stage.
0:51:46 > 0:51:49When I saw you at the Chilterns',
0:51:49 > 0:51:53I knew you were the only person I'd ever cared for.
0:51:53 > 0:51:57If I've ever cared for anybody, Arthur.
0:51:57 > 0:52:00So...
0:52:00 > 0:52:03on the morning of the day
0:52:03 > 0:52:07that you marry me, I will give you Robert's letter.
0:52:10 > 0:52:12That is my offer.
0:52:14 > 0:52:16Are you quite serious?
0:52:16 > 0:52:19Yes. Quite serious.
0:52:19 > 0:52:21My dear Mrs Cheveley...
0:52:21 > 0:52:23HE CHUCKLES
0:52:23 > 0:52:26..I'm afraid I shall make you a very bad husband.
0:52:26 > 0:52:31I don't mind bad husbands, I've had two. They amuse me immensely.
0:52:31 > 0:52:36Here's a chance to rise to great heights of self-sacrifice.
0:52:36 > 0:52:39The rest of your life, you could spend
0:52:39 > 0:52:41in contemplating your own perfection.
0:52:41 > 0:52:44I do that as it is.
0:52:44 > 0:52:49I am ready to sacrifice the greatest prize in my possession.
0:52:54 > 0:52:56I'm honoured.
0:53:00 > 0:53:02- Arthur? - Hmm?
0:53:02 > 0:53:06You loved me once, you asked me to be your wife.
0:53:06 > 0:53:08Ask me again.
0:53:08 > 0:53:09Ask me now.
0:53:15 > 0:53:17Bonsoir.
0:53:26 > 0:53:28My dear Mrs Cheveley.
0:53:28 > 0:53:29My dear Lord Goring.
0:53:33 > 0:53:35I'm going to give you some good advice.
0:53:35 > 0:53:38Never give a woman anything she can't wear in the evening.
0:53:38 > 0:53:43I'm sorry, but I don't seem able to stop myself. I'm going to tell you
0:53:43 > 0:53:48that love, about which I admit I know so little,
0:53:48 > 0:53:51love cannot be bought. It can only be given.
0:53:53 > 0:53:57And I sense it is not in my power to give to you.
0:53:57 > 0:53:59Nor is it in yours,
0:53:59 > 0:54:02I suspect, at all.
0:54:02 > 0:54:04Dear boy, you underestimate us both.
0:54:06 > 0:54:09To give...
0:54:09 > 0:54:12and not expect return, hmm?
0:54:12 > 0:54:16That is what lies at the heart of love.
0:54:16 > 0:54:21I fear, though, the notion is a stranger to us both.
0:54:21 > 0:54:25And yet, if we are honest,
0:54:25 > 0:54:28it is something we both long for,
0:54:28 > 0:54:32something that it takes great courage to do.
0:54:32 > 0:54:37Yes, that is our dark secret.
0:54:38 > 0:54:41Your coming here tonight is the first whisper of it.
0:54:43 > 0:54:44And for that, I admire you.
0:54:46 > 0:54:49Give me the letter. SHE LAUGHS
0:54:49 > 0:54:54Prove your affections to me and give me the letter.
0:54:54 > 0:54:58And surrender my position of power?
0:54:58 > 0:55:02The future of a great man is in your hands, Mrs Cheveley.
0:55:02 > 0:55:05Crush him and your power dies,
0:55:05 > 0:55:08as will any feeling I've ever had for you.
0:55:10 > 0:55:12If you've ever loved me...
0:55:15 > 0:55:16I did love you.
0:55:16 > 0:55:19I know, I know.
0:55:26 > 0:55:28But not that much.
0:55:30 > 0:55:33I must admit I never thought you did.
0:55:33 > 0:55:36Even so, I felt it worth a try.
0:55:36 > 0:55:42I understand and respect you all the more. I take it you reject my offer?
0:55:42 > 0:55:47I fear I must when, tempting as it seems,
0:55:47 > 0:55:49in truth,
0:55:49 > 0:55:52it is little more than blackmail.
0:55:52 > 0:55:56- True. - THEY BOTH LAUGH
0:56:01 > 0:56:03- Gertrude. - Mabel.
0:56:03 > 0:56:06I remembered you were meeting Arthur.
0:56:06 > 0:56:09At least somebody remembered.
0:56:09 > 0:56:12You mean he's not here either?
0:56:12 > 0:56:15Oh, strange.
0:56:15 > 0:56:19Are you quite well?
0:56:16 > 0:56:19Me? Yes, of course.
0:56:19 > 0:56:22No, I'm not at all.
0:56:24 > 0:56:26Could we talk?
0:56:26 > 0:56:32Everything I've learned leads me to reject him for what he did. Yet...
0:56:32 > 0:56:33And yet?
0:56:33 > 0:56:38I have never known such joy as when I'm with him.
0:56:38 > 0:56:42I've never felt so...
0:56:42 > 0:56:46free as when I'm lying in his arms.
0:56:48 > 0:56:50I'll look out for you at the Commons,
0:56:50 > 0:56:53where at least I'll see your friend submit to my desires.
0:56:53 > 0:56:58I wouldn't be too sure.
0:56:55 > 0:56:58We know how he values his career.
0:56:58 > 0:57:01I look forward to him proving you wrong.
0:57:01 > 0:57:05I'd stake my shirt on it.
0:57:03 > 0:57:05Your shirt?
0:57:05 > 0:57:09I think I'd probably wager my entire wardrobe on his integrity.
0:57:09 > 0:57:13What confidence. Would you stake your liberty?
0:57:13 > 0:57:14My liberty?
0:57:14 > 0:57:19I've had a charming little idea.
0:57:19 > 0:57:23Now I consider it, I discover it to be a rather charming big idea.
0:57:23 > 0:57:26Go on.
0:57:26 > 0:57:31If he stands by his principles and condemns the scheme in question,
0:57:31 > 0:57:35I'll give you his letter to dispose of as you choose.
0:57:35 > 0:57:38But if, as I project,
0:57:38 > 0:57:40he surrenders to my demands
0:57:40 > 0:57:43and publicly supports the scheme, then...
0:57:43 > 0:57:46- I'll give you my hand in marriage. - Precisely.
0:57:46 > 0:57:48To dispose of as you please.
0:57:48 > 0:57:52As a betting man, you must concede there is a certain thrill to it.
0:57:52 > 0:57:57Concede to how elegantly I've eased from proposal to proposition.
0:57:57 > 0:58:00And with barely any loss of face. I'm most impressed, indeed.
0:58:00 > 0:58:03We are creatures of compromise.
0:58:03 > 0:58:06I await your response.
0:58:06 > 0:58:11Perhaps you're less certain of your friend's true nature now.
0:58:11 > 0:58:15Not at all. I accept your wager in all confidence.
0:58:15 > 0:58:18- You do? - I do.
0:58:18 > 0:58:20Oh, Arthur,
0:58:20 > 0:58:23isn't it remarkable how those two little words can quicken the heart?
0:58:25 > 0:58:29Would you do something for me?
0:58:27 > 0:58:29Hmm?
0:58:29 > 0:58:35Accompany me to the Commons? There's an interesting debate there tonight.
0:58:35 > 0:58:38The Prime Minister himself has taken an interest.
0:58:38 > 0:58:41And I believe...
0:58:41 > 0:58:47that its outcome will prove interesting to you. And to me.
0:58:47 > 0:58:49Whatever it may be.
0:58:51 > 0:58:53Hmm.
0:59:06 > 0:59:08Damn!
0:59:26 > 0:59:30The honourable member for Whitney.
0:59:30 > 0:59:33Good evening, Chiltern.
0:59:31 > 0:59:33Prime Minister.
0:59:33 > 0:59:38I ask the President of the Board of Trade to what extent he believes
0:59:38 > 0:59:41the projected Argentine canal merits
0:59:41 > 0:59:44the nation's attention and support?
0:59:44 > 0:59:46Mr Speaker...
0:59:51 > 0:59:56..I believe this excellent scheme represents a genuine opportunity
0:59:56 > 0:59:59to extend our trading roots
0:59:59 > 1:00:04and to stamp our authority on a vital portion of the globe.
1:00:04 > 1:00:06ALL: Hear, hear!
1:00:06 > 1:00:08< Excellent speech.
1:00:10 > 1:00:13Didn't expect to see you here.
1:00:13 > 1:00:16Neither did I. I've developed a sudden interest in politics.
1:00:16 > 1:00:19Married yet?
1:00:19 > 1:00:22Ask me again in half an hour.
1:00:24 > 1:00:26What?
1:00:26 > 1:00:27Nothing.
1:00:28 > 1:00:30- Arthur! - Shh!
1:00:30 > 1:00:32I beg to ask the undersecretary
1:00:32 > 1:00:37to clarify his position in respect of this scheme!
1:00:37 > 1:00:39ALL: Answer, sir.
1:00:41 > 1:00:44Let me first of all thank the honourable member
1:00:44 > 1:00:47for his articulate contribution to the debate.
1:00:49 > 1:00:53Since I last addressed this House on the subject,
1:00:53 > 1:00:55I have had the opportunity
1:00:55 > 1:00:58to investigate this scheme more thoroughly
1:00:58 > 1:01:02and to grasp fully the ramifications of our lending it support.
1:01:05 > 1:01:08I have to inform the House...
1:01:08 > 1:01:11that I was...
1:01:11 > 1:01:14- mistaken... - HE COUGHS
1:01:14 > 1:01:16..in my original perceptions,
1:01:16 > 1:01:20and that I have now taken a rather different view.
1:01:20 > 1:01:22HE COUGHS LOUDLY
1:01:28 > 1:01:30Ow! Ow!
1:01:30 > 1:01:31Ow!
1:01:33 > 1:01:37I must agree with my Right Honourable Friend
1:01:37 > 1:01:40that this is indeed an excellent scheme.
1:01:41 > 1:01:44A genuine opportunity.
1:01:47 > 1:01:52An opportunity particularly if you happen to be a corrupt investor...
1:01:52 > 1:01:54LAUGHTER AND SHOUTING
1:01:57 > 1:02:02..corrupt investor, with nothing but self-interest at heart.
1:02:06 > 1:02:10It is my conviction that this scheme never should have had
1:02:10 > 1:02:15or should ever have any chance of success. It is a fraud!
1:02:15 > 1:02:21Our involvement would be a political fraud of the worst possible kind.
1:02:24 > 1:02:27This great nation
1:02:27 > 1:02:31has long been a great commercial power.
1:02:31 > 1:02:36It seems there exists a growing compulsion to use that power
1:02:36 > 1:02:38merely to beget more power.
1:02:38 > 1:02:42Money merely to beget more money.
1:02:42 > 1:02:46Irrespective of the true cost to the nation's soul.
1:02:46 > 1:02:48It is this sickness,
1:02:48 > 1:02:51a kind of moral blindness, commerce without conscience,
1:02:51 > 1:02:56which threatens to strike at the very soul of this nation!
1:02:56 > 1:02:59The only remedy is to strike back, and now!
1:02:59 > 1:03:02Hear, hear!
1:03:02 > 1:03:03SHOUTING
1:03:07 > 1:03:10Order!
1:03:10 > 1:03:12As we stand...
1:03:12 > 1:03:17As we stand at the end of this most eventful century,
1:03:17 > 1:03:22it seems that we do, after all, have a genuine opportunity.
1:03:22 > 1:03:27One honest chance to shed our...
1:03:27 > 1:03:31sometimes imperfect past. To start again,
1:03:31 > 1:03:34to step unshackled
1:03:34 > 1:03:39into the next century, and to look our future squarely
1:03:39 > 1:03:43and proudly in the face.
1:03:43 > 1:03:46CHEERING AND APPLAUSE
1:04:07 > 1:04:10You must agree, it has been a romantic interlude.
1:04:10 > 1:04:15You might even confess to some faint and secret regret at its outcome.
1:04:15 > 1:04:16Huh!
1:04:16 > 1:04:20I feel some relief that in the end, Sir Robert has come to no harm.
1:04:20 > 1:04:21Really?
1:04:21 > 1:04:25Oh, yes. I'm not quite as wicked as you suppose.
1:04:25 > 1:04:27Mrs Cheveley?
1:04:27 > 1:04:31And a lady must always honour her bets.
1:04:31 > 1:04:33Come back with me, Arthur.
1:04:36 > 1:04:39Come back to Vienna.
1:04:41 > 1:04:45Bravo, Sir Robert. I underestimated you.
1:04:45 > 1:04:49- Sorry if I spoiled your plans. - Far more than you realise.
1:04:49 > 1:04:52- That is some small satisfaction. - Look, Robert...
1:04:52 > 1:04:57I have nothing to say to you. Nor is there anything I wish to hear.
1:05:10 > 1:05:15I hope that now you are content. That I didn't disappoint you.
1:05:15 > 1:05:17Robert, I...
1:05:17 > 1:05:19Let women make no more ideals of men,
1:05:19 > 1:05:22or they may ruin other lives as completely as you.
1:05:22 > 1:05:27You, whom I have loved so wildly, have surely ruined mine.
1:05:27 > 1:05:29Robert...
1:05:29 > 1:05:32I know there is no hope for us now.
1:05:32 > 1:05:35I know you can never forgive me.
1:05:38 > 1:05:42Poor man, I almost begin to feel sorry for him. >
1:05:42 > 1:05:47Sorry?
1:05:43 > 1:05:47Yes, I can't bear to see so upright a gentleman
1:05:47 > 1:05:50being so shamefully deceived.
1:05:50 > 1:05:53Deceived?
1:05:51 > 1:05:53And on such positively pink paper.
1:05:53 > 1:05:55What are you talking about?
1:05:55 > 1:05:59"I need you after all, I'm coming to you now."
1:05:59 > 1:06:02You stole Gertrude's letter?
1:06:02 > 1:06:06Losing a man is scant cause for concern, but losing a man to her
1:06:06 > 1:06:11is another matter. Robert should know, as he shall,
1:06:11 > 1:06:14when the letter arrives at his office first thing in the morning.
1:06:17 > 1:06:22You've got a good man there. You should try to hold on to him.
1:06:22 > 1:06:26It occurs to me this whole business is really just about you and me.
1:06:31 > 1:06:33Gertrude, I must speak with you.
1:06:33 > 1:06:35Not now.
1:06:35 > 1:06:38It's about that letter you wrote to me.
1:06:38 > 1:06:41Come in the morning, I can't talk now.
1:06:41 > 1:06:43Lord Goring?
1:06:44 > 1:06:48Miss Mabel. About this evening, I...
1:06:48 > 1:06:52- Congratulations. - I beg your pardon?
1:06:52 > 1:06:54I gather you are to be congratulated.
1:06:54 > 1:06:57There's nothing I like more,
1:06:57 > 1:07:01but I find the pleasure increased by knowing what for.
1:07:01 > 1:07:04Haven't you heard? You're to be married.
1:07:04 > 1:07:07- Your father says... - Does he?
1:07:07 > 1:07:09Yes, he does.
1:07:09 > 1:07:12Did he tell you to who?
1:07:12 > 1:07:16No. But when we saw you with Mrs Cheveley,
1:07:16 > 1:07:19- we naturally assumed... - Oh, did we?
1:07:19 > 1:07:20Yes, we did.
1:07:20 > 1:07:24The fact is, your assumptions
1:07:24 > 1:07:27are presumptuous. You see,
1:07:27 > 1:07:32I'm not sure that I've seen anything
1:07:32 > 1:07:35I quite like the look of yet.
1:07:35 > 1:07:39Oh, really?
1:07:36 > 1:07:39Mmm, really.
1:07:39 > 1:07:43In which case, I have something vitally important to say to you.
1:07:43 > 1:07:45Oh?
1:07:45 > 1:07:50To look at a thing is quite different from seeing a thing.
1:07:50 > 1:07:55And one does not see anything until one sees its beauty.
1:07:55 > 1:07:58Oh, really?
1:07:58 > 1:08:00Yes. Really.
1:08:04 > 1:08:06Ah, Mabel.
1:08:08 > 1:08:12Do you have something you wish to say to me?
1:08:16 > 1:08:18Erm...
1:08:18 > 1:08:20No. No, I don't think so.
1:08:23 > 1:08:26Ahem...
1:08:26 > 1:08:29Then I don't wish to hear it. Good night.
1:08:29 > 1:08:33- Good night.- I'm sure Mr Trafford will have something to say to me.
1:08:33 > 1:08:35I'm even surer...
1:08:35 > 1:08:38I will be quite charmed to listen.
1:08:45 > 1:08:47Damn!
1:08:47 > 1:08:49HE SIGHS
1:08:55 > 1:08:57It is a great nuisance.
1:09:00 > 1:09:02I can't find anyone else to talk to,
1:09:02 > 1:09:05and I'm so full of interesting information.
1:09:05 > 1:09:10I feel like the latest edition of something or other.
1:09:10 > 1:09:13Well, after some consideration,
1:09:13 > 1:09:18there's so much to do, there's only one thing to be done.
1:09:20 > 1:09:22There's a time in every son's life
1:09:22 > 1:09:26when he must indeed follow his father's advice.
1:09:26 > 1:09:29HE SIGHS
1:09:29 > 1:09:31I shall go to bed at once.
1:09:34 > 1:09:38I do hope we see you in the near future, Mrs Cheveley.
1:09:38 > 1:09:42So do I. But I fear that for me, the future seems strangely uncertain.
1:09:42 > 1:09:44What of the present?
1:09:44 > 1:09:47As a very dear friend once said to me,
1:09:47 > 1:09:52"To love oneself is the beginning of a lifelong romance." Goodbye.
1:09:55 > 1:09:58London will be the lesser for your leaving.
1:09:58 > 1:10:01And sadly lacking in scandal.
1:10:01 > 1:10:06Lady Markby, my personal favourite is shortly to unfold.
1:10:06 > 1:10:08Consider it a parting gift.
1:10:08 > 1:10:11Thank you, Mrs Cheveley.
1:10:48 > 1:10:51May I see it?
1:10:51 > 1:10:52Mmm.
1:11:01 > 1:11:06So...that is what you were doing with that woman, Mrs Cheveley?
1:11:06 > 1:11:08Mmm.
1:11:08 > 1:11:12Oh... It certainly didn't look that way.
1:11:12 > 1:11:14Yes, but there's a great deal of difference
1:11:14 > 1:11:17between looking and seeing, isn't there, Miss Mabel?
1:11:19 > 1:11:22Oh, dear Arthur.
1:11:22 > 1:11:25What a good friend you are to him.
1:11:25 > 1:11:27To us.
1:11:27 > 1:11:30But we're not out of danger yet.
1:11:30 > 1:11:34There's a popular saying about frying pans and fires,
1:11:34 > 1:11:37but this time, you and I are to be roasted.
1:11:42 > 1:11:44Oh, no, Arthur, I couldn't.
1:11:44 > 1:11:46He should know the exact truth.
1:11:46 > 1:11:50So you want me to tell him...what?
1:11:50 > 1:11:55- That I intended a secret... - Secret rendezvous, yes.
1:11:55 > 1:11:58With a single man? At such an hour?
1:11:58 > 1:12:00It's scandalous.
1:12:00 > 1:12:04It's also the truth, and it may be our best option.
1:12:04 > 1:12:06I couldn't possibly tell him.
1:12:06 > 1:12:09- May I do it? - Certainly not.
1:12:09 > 1:12:12Give me your word that you never will.
1:12:12 > 1:12:14But you are wrong.
1:12:14 > 1:12:18I will give you my word.
1:12:18 > 1:12:21That you will never tell me what, Lord Goring?
1:12:21 > 1:12:23Robert.
1:12:28 > 1:12:30What does this mean?
1:12:34 > 1:12:37I meant to give it to you last night.
1:12:37 > 1:12:39Last night?
1:12:40 > 1:12:45Yes, when Gertrude sent it over, but you left in such a hurry.
1:12:45 > 1:12:47So this letter is intended for me?
1:12:50 > 1:12:53Well, of co...
1:12:53 > 1:12:55Oh, my goodness.
1:12:55 > 1:12:58You didn't think, you couldn't possibly think that...
1:13:00 > 1:13:05The name, the, erm, the address on the envelope is yours.
1:13:05 > 1:13:09She knew that when you left here, you'd come to me at once.
1:13:09 > 1:13:12It stands to reason, come on.
1:13:14 > 1:13:16It's true, Robert.
1:13:16 > 1:13:18I delivered it myself.
1:13:19 > 1:13:21YOU did?
1:13:21 > 1:13:24You DID? Ahem... You DID.
1:13:24 > 1:13:28Certainly. Ahem...
1:13:28 > 1:13:32As you'll remember, Gertrude, after my rehearsals, I called in for tea.
1:13:32 > 1:13:35And when you mentioned the letter,
1:13:35 > 1:13:37I said that I was to meet up with Lord Goring,
1:13:37 > 1:13:40as we were visiting the new modern art exhibition
1:13:40 > 1:13:44at the Grosvenor. Which, apart from two studies
1:13:44 > 1:13:46by Whistler, was forgettable.
1:13:46 > 1:13:49That's exactly what Lord Goring then proceeded to do.
1:13:49 > 1:13:54Namely, forget it, before he saw it. For he never appeared.
1:13:54 > 1:13:56A fact which I find
1:13:56 > 1:14:00most upsetting. Mr Whistler and I
1:14:00 > 1:14:02are both deciding whether or not to forgive him.
1:14:02 > 1:14:07In the meantime, I delivered the letter myself.
1:14:07 > 1:14:11And, you know, the fact of the matter is, I still haven't had
1:14:11 > 1:14:14a word of apology.
1:14:14 > 1:14:16Erm, sorry.
1:14:16 > 1:14:18I forgive you.
1:14:18 > 1:14:21Thank you.
1:14:21 > 1:14:23Is this true?
1:14:36 > 1:14:39"When you left...
1:14:39 > 1:14:41"my life...
1:14:41 > 1:14:44"my life fell apart.
1:14:47 > 1:14:49"I need you, after all."
1:14:52 > 1:14:54Your life fell apart, Gertrude?
1:14:58 > 1:15:00Yes.
1:15:03 > 1:15:07You need me, Gertrude?
1:15:07 > 1:15:09Yes.
1:15:09 > 1:15:11Why did you not say that you loved me?
1:15:11 > 1:15:14Oh, because I love you.
1:15:14 > 1:15:18- HE LAUGHS - I do not care what
1:15:18 > 1:15:23punishment or disgrace is in store for me. This letter of yours...
1:15:23 > 1:15:27makes me feel that nothing that the world can do can harm me now.
1:15:27 > 1:15:31There is no disgrace in store for you, nor any public shame.
1:15:33 > 1:15:36HE HUMS
1:15:36 > 1:15:38Oh! I...
1:15:38 > 1:15:40I don't understand.
1:15:40 > 1:15:44We have much to thank him for, Robert.
1:15:44 > 1:15:49When I finished my speech, I felt sure my future was in ruins.
1:15:49 > 1:15:53When you began it, I wasn't so sure about my own.
1:15:53 > 1:15:56I don't know how to thank you. Arthur.
1:15:56 > 1:15:59I'm sure I'll think of something.
1:15:59 > 1:16:03In the meantime, I'd be grateful for the return of my hand.
1:16:03 > 1:16:05Oh.
1:16:07 > 1:16:09Miss Mabel?
1:16:13 > 1:16:16Miss Mabel?
1:16:16 > 1:16:17Miss Mabel, wait!
1:16:22 > 1:16:23I, er...
1:16:23 > 1:16:26have something very particular to say to you.
1:16:26 > 1:16:29Oh. Is it a proposal?
1:16:31 > 1:16:34Well... Yes, it is.
1:16:34 > 1:16:36It is?!
1:16:38 > 1:16:40I think it is.
1:16:40 > 1:16:42Well, yes or no?
1:16:42 > 1:16:46Actually, yes, I'm afraid it is.
1:16:44 > 1:16:46I'm so glad.
1:16:46 > 1:16:49- That is the second one today. - What?
1:16:49 > 1:16:51- Not...? - Yes.
1:16:51 > 1:16:57Tommy Trafford. Tommy always proposes on Tuesdays and Thursdays.
1:16:57 > 1:17:00Today is Friday.
1:16:58 > 1:17:00I know.
1:17:00 > 1:17:03Today is special.
1:17:03 > 1:17:06You didn't accept him, did you?
1:17:06 > 1:17:08I shall be in the conservatory,
1:17:08 > 1:17:10under the second palm tree on the right.
1:17:13 > 1:17:14Second palm tree on the right?
1:17:14 > 1:17:17The USUAL palm tree.
1:17:17 > 1:17:19And then we'll see how you do.
1:17:21 > 1:17:23The usual?
1:17:23 > 1:17:28Well, sir, what are you doing here? Wasting your time, as usual?
1:17:28 > 1:17:33When one pays a visit, it wastes other people's time
1:17:33 > 1:17:36and not one's own. Why are you here?
1:17:36 > 1:17:38I've important news for Chiltern.
1:17:41 > 1:17:42A seat in the Cabinet.
1:17:42 > 1:17:45You well deserve it. You have got
1:17:45 > 1:17:48what we want in political life. High character,
1:17:48 > 1:17:53moral tone, principles. Everything that you have not got, sir!
1:18:05 > 1:18:09I cannot accept this offer, Lord Caversham.
1:18:09 > 1:18:12I have decided to decline it.
1:18:12 > 1:18:13Decline it, sir?!
1:18:13 > 1:18:16I will retire at once from public life.
1:18:16 > 1:18:20Decline a seat and retire from public life?!
1:18:20 > 1:18:25I never heard such damned nonsense! I beg your pardon, Lady Chiltern.
1:18:25 > 1:18:28Prevent your husband from making a...
1:18:28 > 1:18:32My husband is right, I agree with him.
1:18:32 > 1:18:35You agree? Good heavens.
1:18:35 > 1:18:40I admire him for it. I admire him immensely for it.
1:18:42 > 1:18:45I shall write at once to the Prime Minister.
1:18:47 > 1:18:49Do excuse me for a moment, Lord Caversham.
1:18:49 > 1:18:50Lord Caversham.
1:18:53 > 1:18:55What is the matter with this family?
1:18:55 > 1:18:58There's something wrong here, eh?
1:18:58 > 1:19:01Idiocy. Hereditary, perhaps. Both of them, too.
1:19:03 > 1:19:09Very sad. Very sad indeed. They're not an old family.
1:19:09 > 1:19:13Can't understand it. I'd better go to the Prime Minister
1:19:13 > 1:19:16and tell him Chiltern's a fool!
1:19:16 > 1:19:19No, not quite yet. I'd rather you took a seat yourself.
1:19:19 > 1:19:23What now?
1:19:20 > 1:19:23Go in there for a while.
1:19:23 > 1:19:26The second palm tree to the right. The usual palm tree.
1:19:26 > 1:19:27What?!
1:19:27 > 1:19:28There's somebody I want you to talk to.
1:19:28 > 1:19:30What about?
1:19:30 > 1:19:32About me, sir. Hmm?
1:19:33 > 1:19:36Not a subject on which much eloquence is possible.
1:19:42 > 1:19:44Gertrude?
1:19:48 > 1:19:50Oh.
1:19:50 > 1:19:54Yes, it is Robert himself who wishes to retire from public life.
1:19:54 > 1:19:55- Oh, really! - He said so.
1:19:55 > 1:19:58Rather than lose your love, he would do anything.
1:19:58 > 1:20:00Has he not been punished enough?
1:20:00 > 1:20:04We've both been punished. I set him up too high.
1:20:04 > 1:20:07Do not then set him down now too low.
1:20:07 > 1:20:11It is not the perfect, but the imperfect who need love.
1:20:11 > 1:20:14You know a great deal about everything, all of a sudden.
1:20:14 > 1:20:17Oh, I hope not.
1:20:17 > 1:20:20I do know that it takes great courage
1:20:20 > 1:20:25to see the world in all its tainted glory and still to love it.
1:20:25 > 1:20:29And even more courage to see it in the one you love.
1:20:29 > 1:20:34You have more courage than any woman I know. Do not be afraid to use it.
1:20:42 > 1:20:44HE HUMS
1:20:45 > 1:20:47LAUGHTER
1:20:47 > 1:20:49CHATTERING
1:20:55 > 1:20:57< Lady Caversham need never know.
1:20:58 > 1:21:00Thank you, Father.
1:21:00 > 1:21:02- Can't say I hold up much hope. - What?!
1:21:07 > 1:21:09HE SIGHS
1:21:31 > 1:21:33Lord Goring.
1:21:34 > 1:21:36You have something you wish to say to me?
1:21:36 > 1:21:38Um...
1:21:40 > 1:21:42Marry me, M...
1:21:46 > 1:21:49Marry me, Miss Mabel.
1:21:49 > 1:21:51SHE SIGHS
1:21:51 > 1:21:56Well, Lord Goring, I must say, this comes as quite a surprise.
1:21:56 > 1:21:59- If you need time to consider, I'll... - No!
1:21:59 > 1:22:02I don't need time, I need a reason.
1:22:02 > 1:22:04What?
1:22:04 > 1:22:08A reason why you think I should marry you.
1:22:09 > 1:22:11Oh, um...
1:22:16 > 1:22:18A reason, you say?
1:22:18 > 1:22:20A good one. Yes.
1:22:20 > 1:22:22- Hmm. - Robert. >
1:22:25 > 1:22:27May I?
1:22:27 > 1:22:28Of course.
1:22:36 > 1:22:37Gertrude!
1:22:37 > 1:22:41It is more than enough to know that you would sacrifice it.
1:22:41 > 1:22:45We have, all of us, feet of clay, Robert.
1:22:45 > 1:22:48Women, as well as men.
1:22:50 > 1:22:52Can it be that...
1:22:53 > 1:22:55..you've forgiven me?
1:22:57 > 1:23:00Oh, I suppose it must be that.
1:23:02 > 1:23:04Oh, goodness.
1:23:04 > 1:23:06Hold me, Robert.
1:23:11 > 1:23:13Forgive ME?
1:23:13 > 1:23:15Gertrude!
1:23:18 > 1:23:20Gertrude, my wife! >
1:23:20 > 1:23:22HE LAUGHS
1:23:28 > 1:23:30I love you.
1:23:30 > 1:23:32I love you.
1:23:32 > 1:23:34I love you.
1:23:37 > 1:23:39Is that your reason?
1:23:39 > 1:23:40Mmm.
1:23:40 > 1:23:42I love you.
1:23:44 > 1:23:46I said...
1:23:46 > 1:23:48I... I know.
1:23:48 > 1:23:51Well, couldn't you...
1:23:53 > 1:23:56..love me just a little bit in return? Hmm?
1:23:57 > 1:24:01Oh, Arthur, you silly.
1:24:01 > 1:24:06If you knew anything about anything, which you don't,
1:24:06 > 1:24:08you'd know that I absolutely adore you.
1:24:08 > 1:24:11- Really? - Mmm.
1:24:11 > 1:24:15Well, why didn't you mention it before?
1:24:15 > 1:24:20Because, dear boy, you never would have believed me.
1:24:20 > 1:24:21Hmm.
1:24:38 > 1:24:40HE CLEARS THROAT
1:24:47 > 1:24:49What the devil's going on in this house?!
1:24:55 > 1:24:57Congratulations!
1:24:57 > 1:25:02If the country doesn't go to the dogs, we'll have you Prime Minister.
1:25:02 > 1:25:06Thank you. Arthur, I wish I could repay you.
1:25:06 > 1:25:09Well, as a matter of fact, there is.
1:25:09 > 1:25:13You are your sister's guardian. I'd like to marry her, that is all.
1:25:13 > 1:25:16Oh, I'm SO glad!
1:25:16 > 1:25:20You wish to marry Mabel? It's quite out of the question.
1:25:20 > 1:25:23THEY ALL LAUGH
1:25:23 > 1:25:27I have to consider Mabel's future happiness
1:25:27 > 1:25:32and, as much as I care for you, her happiness isn't safe in your hands.
1:25:32 > 1:25:37I love Mabel. No other woman has a place in my heart.
1:25:37 > 1:25:41They truly love each other, why should they not marry?
1:25:41 > 1:25:43I shall tell you.
1:25:43 > 1:25:49I called on Lord Goring and I found Mrs Cheveley concealed in his room.
1:25:49 > 1:25:53I discovered that they were at one time engaged.
1:25:53 > 1:25:56I'm very sorry, Mabel.
1:25:56 > 1:26:00How can I allow you to marry him when he's already involved?
1:26:00 > 1:26:02I'm sorry, Arthur.
1:26:02 > 1:26:05It would be wrong of me.
1:26:05 > 1:26:08It would be unjust to her.
1:26:18 > 1:26:19Very well.
1:26:19 > 1:26:22- But, Arthur... - Shh.
1:26:22 > 1:26:24Mabel,
1:26:24 > 1:26:27there is nothing I can say.
1:26:34 > 1:26:35Robert?
1:26:40 > 1:26:46Arthur was as surprised as you to find Mrs Cheveley in his rooms.
1:26:46 > 1:26:49He was expecting...
1:26:51 > 1:26:52..quite another woman.
1:26:52 > 1:26:55Another woman? What do you mean?
1:26:55 > 1:26:59Well, the truth is,
1:26:59 > 1:27:03the business about Mabel and Mr Whistler, you see,
1:27:03 > 1:27:09that was just my friends being kind and, erm, protecting me.
1:27:09 > 1:27:11Er, well, the truth is,
1:27:11 > 1:27:14when I agreed to the story about
1:27:14 > 1:27:19the letter being intended for you and not for Arthur,
1:27:19 > 1:27:22well, you see,
1:27:22 > 1:27:23the truth is...
1:27:28 > 1:27:30..the truth is...
1:27:33 > 1:27:35..I lied!
1:27:39 > 1:27:41Bravo!
1:27:41 > 1:27:44THEY ALL LAUGH
1:27:46 > 1:27:48Father!
1:27:53 > 1:27:55THEY ALL LAUGH
1:28:01 > 1:28:03I need a drink.
1:28:03 > 1:28:04Me, too.
1:28:24 > 1:28:25If you don't make her an ideal husband,
1:28:25 > 1:28:27I'll cut you off with a shilling.
1:28:27 > 1:28:31An ideal husband, I don't think I should like that.
1:28:31 > 1:28:34What do you want him to be, then?
1:28:34 > 1:28:37He can be whatever he chooses.
1:28:37 > 1:28:39You don't deserve her, sir.
1:28:39 > 1:28:44If men married the women we deserved, we should have a very bad time of it.
1:28:44 > 1:28:48Your heart is quite heartless.
1:28:48 > 1:28:52Oh, I hope not, sir. I hope not.