Caught

Um... I'll take this one.

I'll have that one.

Oh, look.

-And this.

-Oh, really?

This one's for me.

-I like those.

-You do?

Oh, Maud, isn't that stunning?!

I'd rather have mink.

You would?! Mink is so everyday.

I don't care. We're wishing for what we want.

-Well, I want mink.

-Well, all right. Have mink.

I want chinchilla.

What do you spend on lunches?

It depends.

Can't you give me an average?

Oh, 65 cents.

One and three is four...

65.

65 x 6.

That's 3.90 a week.

How about car fare?

-30 cents a day.

-30 cents a day...

Well...

That's the same...

Well...

if you don't spend more than a quarter a day for lunch,

and you don't wear stockings, you don't go to the movies,

unless somebody takes you, you can go to school.

Oh, yes, and you can't buy any more magazines.

Gee, maybe it isn't worth it.

Maybe you want to spend your life as a car-hop?

Oh, don't be a stoop.

-My feet are killing me.

-Everything swells in the heat.

It isn't the heat, it's the humidity.

-Whose turn to wash?

-Yours. I dry.

I'll get started.

Why couldn't you let me get a modelling job now?

I told you, I won't use my influence till you're ready

and you won't be till you go to school.

Reading this I won't need you.

"Dorothy Dale places her graduates in the best positions."

She looks like a nifty number. I'll bet this was retouched.

It's not just for a better job.

A charm school's college and finishing school combined.

I can read, Maxine.

Without a social education, you'll never meet a real man.

What's the matter with George?

He'll never be able to buy a mink coat.

"Girls," Dorothy Dale asks, "What is your most important asset?

-"Your smile. Be charming."

-That's what I told you.

I'd love to go back to Denver with a mink coat someday, Maxine.

Two mink coats.

One for my mother.

I guess it won't kill me to have 25-cent lunches.

You still have to wear stockings.

How long a course should I take?

Six weeks.

Gee. Wouldn't it be wonderful if after I graduate,

I start work modelling in the store like you for a few weeks.

And then, one day,

in walks a handsome young millionaire.

-Wouldn't that be wonderful?!

-And he's at the perfume counter.

And then suddenly he turns around and sees me.

We don't say a word for a long time

-and then he says...

-Will you start drying the dishes?

OK. But it could happen.

Dorothy Dale says, "A charm school girl's future is unlimited.

"Once she leaves our doors, she is ready to meet anyone socially."

Good evening, Miss Chambers.

-Good evening, Miss Chambers.

-Oh, Miss Eames?

About your tuition.

Each week must be paid in advance.

I'm sorry, Miss Chambers.

PHONE RINGS

Dorothy Dale School Of Charm.

Oh, yes. We'd be glad to recommend a model.

All of our models are highly qualified.

Yes, Mr Lawrence, she'll be there at nine.

Thank you.

Could I give you five now and the other five on Thursday?

THURS-day?

-THURS-day.

-Certainly.

Miss Maud Eames.

5.

Oh, would you mind making that Leonora Eames? I've changed it.

Not at all. Leonora.

Leonora, that's charming.

Thank you.

Thank you.

It was a lovely luncheon, Mrs Burton.

Bur-TON.

Bur-TON.

Thank you for having me.

Pick up your bag.

Sorry. Thank you.

Good afternoon. Good afternoon.

Bravo. That was quite nice.

Cross your legs, my dear.

May we have Miss Eames?

-Yes, Miss Dale.

-More confidence, my dear.

Speak out. Full tones.

What is your favourite fur?

-Mink.

-Mm-ink. Mine too.

Well, believe it or not, this is a beautiful mink coat.

Fourth floor. Cosmetics, jewellery, perfume and furs.

Oh, Miss, just a minute.

Only 4,995 plus tax.

5,000, that's not bad.

-Do you like the full back?

-I adore it!

The skins are divine. Heavenly.

Has Wally signed with Metro?

No. Not yet. Come along.

Let's have the old one glazed.

I'd rather make him buy me a new bracelet.

Of course, darling.

Like it, darling?

I hope you're not offended. I call everyone darling.

What a charming coat.

-May I see the lining?

-Only 4,995.

Plus tax.

Plus tax.

Charming, darling. Charming.

I think we haven't been working here long, yes?

-Yes.

-Hold this a moment, will you?

I'm giving a party, a lovely party, this weekend, on a yacht.

We go to Catalina.

-No, thank you.

-There'd be lots of people.

Fresh air, sunshine. If you don't like it, you can leave.

-No, thanks.

-Don't be a silly bourgeois, darling.

You have work to do, I have work to do.

We can chat here for hours, but we would still get to the same point.

The yacht is my business associate's.

Charming.

We leave at 6:30 on Friday.

Uh...

It'll be divine, darling.

Nice relaxation.

Tout alors.

-Did you get an invitation?

-I'm not going.

You're out of your head.

9,995. Hand-made... Sorry. Just looking.

-Don't you know who it's for?

-Smith Ohlrig.

Only the wall in Wall Street. The poodle works for him.

9,995. Hand-made from purest...

-The parties are terrific.

-They can do without me.

Who are you?

Only 4,995, plus tax.

I'm not going, Maxine.

How else do you think girls like us meet guys like Ohlrig?

It's just no use, Maxine.

I just look terrible. I'm not going!

I'm not the type for this dress and...

This zipper!

I'm not the type for the yachting party.

How do you know? You haven't been on one.

That's the only reason I wanted to go, to find out what it'd be like.

But not with those characters.

A man going to a party like that has one idea.

-That's one too many.

-You can take care of yourself.

I don't want to go to a party where I'm worrying about that.

Unzip me, please.

It's up to you. But the party's an investment.

I know. I should think of security.

KNOCK AT DOOR Who is it?

Thelma. > Thelma, see?

And what is security? Money.

-Period.

-Exclamation point.

MAXINE: Hello. THELMA: Here's the fur.

-I'm sorry I'm late, but...

-Thanks, but you ought to go home.

THELMA: I brought gloves in case you needed them.

MAXINE: They're stunning. Thanks a lot.

THELMA: I don't have to go yet. MAXINE: I'll talk to you tomorrow.

THELMA: Have a good time, honey. Spill some champagne on it.

If they ask if you have a friend, remember me!

-I'll look terrible in that, too.

-Wait till I press your coat.

-You can put this on and look fine.

-Don't get mad.

-It's just that I resent the whole set-up.

-Resent it?

Yes. Right from the beginning when that slimy man

crawled up to me in the store and wiggled his eyebrows.

-It just makes me feel cheap.

-Let's face it,

girls like us can't pick the way we meet men like Smith Ohlrig.

-Why, you should be grateful.

-Well, I'm not.

Oh, no. You want to dream about Prince Charming on a golden horse.

You feel cheap.

That's touching.

Now, let me tell you, I'd be very glad to be in your shoes.

For Pete's sake,

here you are, with a chance to meet some decent men.

Men who could take you out of living in a dump like this.

You...

You don't know a break when you get it.

DANCE BAND PLAYING

ENGINE APPROACHES

-Are you from the Ohlrig yacht?

-Yes.

I thought they'd never send someone to pick me up.

They didn't send me. I have some business to take care of.

Couldn't you take me to the yacht first?

Don't say yacht, say boat.

Boat. Couldn't you, please?

It's one of the dullest parties they've had.

-I don't care. I've got to go.

-Why?

Well, because... I don't think that's any of your concern.

Why weren't you with the others?

I couldn't get off work in time. I'm a model.

I phoned Mr Kartos before he arrived,

but he said he'd send a taxi out and somebody to pick me up.

-If you wait for me, I'll take you.

-You couldn't take me now?

No.

I guess I'll just have to wait till you're ready.

Come on.

Where?

You can drive to the office with me.

-I couldn't do that.

-Why not?

To start with, I don't know you, except you're from the Ohlrig yacht.

Secondly, I owe that taxi driver 6.50, which Mr Kartos...

I'll take care of him.

My name's Leonora Eames, what's yours?

Smith Ohlrig.

It can't be done that way. If you spend...

I don't make money by throwing it away.

-Good night.

-Good night.

-Good night.

-Good night.

Sorry to be so long. It's a new organisation.

That's perfectly all right. I was having a delightful catnap.

So many people are on the boat. Do you mind if we go back to town?

-Not at all, Mr Ohlrig. I'd love to.

-Well, that's fine.

What's so funny about walking with a book on your head?

Sorry. What did you say the name of that place was?

Dorothy Dale's School of Charm. It's quite famous. It is.

I wish you wouldn't drive so fast.

I like it. I'm a good driver.

I'm sure you are, but...

-Weren't you taught to be agreeable to your escort?

-Yes.

-What else did they teach you?

-Diction and make-up and fencing.

Mr Duval taught that. And posture and social usage.

Social what?

Usage. You know? Conversation, etiquette.

How to pour tea, listen to music, how to...

Please watch the road.

Mm-hm.

Where are you from?

-Denver.

-Family poor?

-Yes.

-How long have you been in Los Angeles?

-Almost five years.

-Doing what?

-Working. Modelling.

-Who paid for your charm school?

-I did.

How many yachting trips have you been on?

None.

-How many Hollywood parties, then?

-None.

-Come on.

-I haven't!

-Why not?

-Nobody else asked me.

There's some cigarettes in the glove compartment. Light one for me.

What do you know about me?

Oh...

-I know you're from the east.

-New York.

And I know you're sort of an international something.

Well, that just about describes it.

What else?

And you're rich.

-How rich?

-Oh, very rich.

What else?

Well, I know that you've never been married before.

And I'm not going to be, either.

-Where are we?

-At the house.

My house.

No.

Come in and have a drink.

Don't be silly. You knew you weren't just taking a drive.

Please take me home, Mr Ohlrig.

Come on. Don't you think I like you?

Take me home.

Didn't your charm school tell you how to handle this?

I'm sorry.

I just want to go home.

Skip it.

I took her home and we said good night.

We did that a few more times, then I dropped her.

Why?

They come a dime a dozen.

I thought, from what you said before,

that she was sweeter than most of these girls.

Psychoanalysts and elephants. They never forget.

I think this is all pointless, anyway.

Why did you come here?

I don't like getting upset and you say you can calm me.

I can, if you work with me, not against me.

Let's go back to the girl.

Well, for your information,

she's after the same thing everyone's after, my money.

Maybe she feels that you just want to play around with her.

You don't think I want to marry her, do you?

I certainly hope not.

If I persisted I'd get what I want. I wish business were as easy.

Yesterday I battled with a man from noon till two in the morning.

-Then I had an idiotic attack.

-A heart attack?

Yes. And I go to a specialist for that.

I think they're just a nervous reaction.

A year ago you wanted to buy out a rubber company.

And the owner didn't want to sell.

So, you had an attack.

-The next one was in that South...

-I get it.

I get the connection. When I can't get what I want, I have an attack.

Yes. Nothing's organically wrong with your heart, so why the attacks?

Consider if it's a way of saying, "I'm not all-powerful. I'm weak.

"Take pity. Give me what I want."

I have these attacks because I have a bad heart.

But that's too simple for you.

You have to find some insane Freudian reason.

Heart attacks because I want pity.

What are your other little gems?

I destroy everyone I can't own. I think all anyone wants is my money.

I'd only be married for my money. Don't say you didn't say that.

-I only said...

-You're wrong, Doctor. I am going to get married.

I'm not afraid of anyone.

What's more, do you want to know something?

I'm going to marry that girl.

You don't believe me, do you?

Hello. Franzi?

We're taking a plane to Yuma as soon as you can find Leonora...

What's her name? Yes. Eames.

Why do you think?

I'm going to get married.

Sorry to cut a major source of your income, but you won't see me again.

-It's up to you.

-Completely.

And I do as I please.

Yes. That's why you made your call.

I said I didn't think you'd marry,

so you made arrangements to prove I'm wrong.

You don't really want to marry this girl.

You've only done this because you're angry at me.

And to prove that no-one has authority over you.

A marriage like this will only ruin the girl. And you.

That's your opinion.

I beg your pardon, madam, luncheon is ready.

Oh, thank you.

-He doesn't get home until midnight?

-Sometimes later.

Do you sit polishing your jewellery?

They look so good, I'll take two.

I pick him up at whatever warehouse or office he's at.

Warehouse, uh-huh. What then?

Then we drive to the beach, or some joint.

Money and romance. Lucky girl.

Except that Franzi or one of the other men always comes.

-It sounds cosy.

-Very.

-Altogether we're a very cosy couple.

-What's the matter?

Oh, I just think that Smith wishes that he hadn't married me.

The minute you get rich, you get neurotic.

I mean it. I don't blame him.

I don't know how to fit into all of this, or how to behave.

Enjoy it. That's how.

He thinks I married him for his money.

No comment.

You know I didn't. I could never do a thing like that.

-You really love him, don't you?

-Yes.

Can I have the butter, please?

So everything isn't cooing, so you didn't have a honeymoon...

You think this, he thinks that. Who cares?

Look at that house, the charge account,

lunch by the swimming pool.

Look at the silver and this glass. Look at this table.

Oh, honey, you're rich.

Yeah, rich, but...

-Things'll be better in New York.

-The house is on Long Island.

Same difference.

HE HUMS

Franzi,

will you please stop playing?

Just this one, darling. It's so lovely.

-I wish I could go to bed.

-So do I.

It's almost three o'clock, Franz.

Tough. Take a pill.

I've lived on pills ever since I came east. That's 10 months.

I won't anymore.

Then play with the necklace he gave you for your birthday.

Yes.

Instead of that honeymoon trip we'll never take.

Instead of going to Denver to see my family.

Instead of having dinner, spending time together,

being together, like other married people.

No.

All he wants me to do is sit and wait till he phones or comes home.

Then I see him exactly for one hour.

Two, if I'm lucky.

Tough. You got what you wanted, darling.

You're wearing it. Don't expect him to pick up your handkerchief, too.

-Maybe money's enough for you.

-Of course. Isn't it for you?

No.

Why else marry a madman like that?

He wasn't like this before we were married.

-He was a batsman.

-He was a human being.

Tough. Buy yourself a new hat.

Tough, darling. Tough.

Will you stop saying that?!

Will you stop playing that piano? Will you stop?!

You're a greedy little girl, darling. You're getting greedier every day.

-This part is divine.

-Greedy.

How dare you?

-Greedy.

-I remember hearing it...

Oh!

I'm sorry. I didn't mean it.

-I'm sorry.

-It's all right.

It saves him from getting hit.

That's what I get paid for.

Stop playing.

Will you stop playing?!

CAR HORN

Here he is. Get ready.

Report for duty.

-Have you got a comb, Franzi?

-Yes, I think I have.

Here it is, darling.

-I'm sorry, Franz.

-Oh, that's all right.

Come right in, boys. Stack your coats anyplace.

-God morning, Mr Ohlrig.

-Good morning.

Good morning, Leonora. Tired?

You look done in. You know the projection room?

Start right away. That's a movie for my new project.

Make yourself comfortable, boys.

The picture'll be on in a minute.

Help yourselves to a drink.

-Got any food?

-There's some sandwiches...

-Nothing hot?

-I'm sorry...

It's all right.

Anybody who wants anything to eat, ask Mrs Ohlrig.

Where do you think you're going?

I thought you'd be alone. There's so many men, I'll go to bed.

You're my wife and as my wife, you're the hostess in this house.

Wait till the next shot, the one after this.

Is this the one, Smith, where you had...

LEONORA GIGGLES

Lights. Turn on the lights.

Tell them to hold the screen, we're not through yet.

What was so funny, Leonora?

Nothing.

I'm glad you can laugh at me. I'd just like to know why.

I wasn't laughing at you, Smith.

It wasn't anything in the picture.

What was so funny, then?

I'm sorry. It was something I said.

Something about me?

-No.

-Something private, then.

Perhaps if you watched the picture, you wouldn't be so bored.

I'm not bored, Smith.

Thanks to Mr Gentry.

-Good night, Gentry.

-Look, I think you're...

I'm no longer interested in what you think.

Start the picture.

Harry, start the picture.

DOOR SLAMS

I can see now why they install love seats in movie balconies.

But please try to remember, you're not sitting there any more.

Leonora, don't leave this room!

Get out of here. Get out. All of you.

-I said all of you.

-Of course.

Tell my wife to come down.

Darling,

watch out.

You might get slapped this time.

Why don't you turn around?

You know I'm here.

Look at me!

Look at what you've bought!

Don't scream.

Shall I call your friends back so you can insult me in front of them?

You merely got what you deserved.

I wasn't doing a thing and you know it!

-You look ridiculous.

-Yes, I am ridiculous.

You made me ridiculous.

You didn't mean it, but after we married you were sorry.

You don't want me. You want me to want you.

My, aren't we sorry for ourself?

Do you want a divorce?

Oh, I get it.

I understand. You think it's been long enough for a big settlement.

I don't want a divorce, but you do.

I don't. I want you.

Your trouble is you want too much.

-You wanted to marry rich, you did.

-I loved you!

That's what you tell yourself.

I thought you loved me and we could be happy.

You thought with money, you'd have it all. It's not that easy.

The world is clammy with people who think that way and they sicken me.

I was born rich. My father left me 4 million.

I didn't drink, gamble or marry it away.

I knew what to do with it.

I've got 22½ times that much now

and I'll have 50 times that before I die.

That's what everyone wants. I've got it.

And I made it myself.

Each of my corporations has different staff, lawyer, accountant.

None of them knows about each other. I run it all.

Each one has his place and stays there.

Why not? They're well paid. That's what you've got to learn.

You're better paid than any of them. And you've got your place.

And that's where you'll stay.

But you want more, don't you?

Yes. I want more of you.

Are you bored?

Do you tire of money so easily that you're bored?

Oh, Smith, I just meant that...

I can't...

Go away, then. Take a trip. Go to Palm Beach, Sun Valley. You're rich.

You should. There's charm school paint that needs scraping off.

Well, I guess that's all there is to do.

Go away, I mean.

Do you think I should?

By all means.

OK, I will.

Not to Palm Beach

and not to Sun Valley. I'm going to get a job.

How long will you wait table or sweat in a factory, Mrs Ohlrig?

That depends on you.

Oh, I see. The cold husband is supposed to miss his loving wife

and beg her to return to their million-dollar cottage.

I'm afraid you picked the wrong husband.

You've had more than a year of being rich. You like it.

I can't live like this, Smith.

I can't!

LEONORA'S FOOTSTEPS RETREAT

You'll be back.

DOOR SLAMS

INTERCOM BUZZES

Leonora?

'It's the projectionist. Is that all for tonight?'

-Yeah.

-'Are you all right, Mr Ohlrig?'

Yes, I'm all right.

You can go home.

Are you waiting to be... Kevin, please be quiet.

-Are you waiting to be examined?

-No. To apply for the job.

Thank heavens. The doctor will see you in a minute.

I hope you're looking for work, not a husband.

Oh, work, believe me.

Our last receptionist said that. We fired her.

Miss Murray. Yes, doctor.

Kevin, be quiet. Emergency call.

Help Mrs Dubro, will you?

What a world!

Mrs Dubro?

I'm Mrs Dubro. Step this way.

MRS DUBRO: I was on time. MISS MURRAY: I know.

He's on an emergency. He'll be right back.

I'll see if the doctor will see you now.

Doctor. Doctor Quinada.

Kevin, please stop that.

Will you see Miss...

What is your name?

-Eames.

-Miss Eames about that job.

Do it again.

OK. Do it with me this time.

Here is the church.

Here is the steeple.

Open the door...

-Open the door, like this.

-Miss Eames?

Just a minute. And see all the people.

That's good.

Would you come in, please?

Keep it down, Kevin.

Kevin, if you don't be quiet, I'll break your neck.

You have a knack with kids.

-I like them.

-They're pretty tough here.

-They are where I'm from.

-You're not from under the elevated.

-Neither were you.

-No, closer to Park Avenue.

But I could hear it. You know what the job is?

-Receptionist.

-For Dr Hoffman and me.

He's an obstetrician, I'm a paediatrician.

He brings them into the world, I try to keep them here.

I'm sure you succeed.

Writing prescriptions is easier than paying for them.

-What experience have you had?

-I trained as a receptionist.

-Where?

-In Los Angeles. The Dale school.

The Dale school, huh?

-Have you worked in New York?

-No.

How long have you been here?

Less than a year.

So long? What have you been doing?

I've been living on Long Island.

-Oh.

-Yes, but I've got to make some money now.

There's a cup somewhere.

-It's all right. I've had breakfast.

-Where?

In the automat.

I bet you've never been in an automat.

-Oh, I was!

-Miss Eames, this job only pays 25 a week.

-That's OK.

-It isn't tough, but the hours are long.

I don't mind.

I've seen you somewhere.

-You haven't been in hospital recently?

-No.

-You obviously don't live down here.

-No.

-Do I look familiar?

-No.

I must be wrong.

You've got a little smudge on your cheek.

-It's a beauty mark over a mole.

-Why? There's nothing wrong with it.

Miss Eames, can you type and take dictation?

Yes. I can type. Some.

I could brush up on it.

Where?

I can go to night school and study shorthand too.

On 25 a week? Thank you very much for coming in.

Dr Quinada, I need the job.

So do many people.

Please, I've been job-hunting for two weeks.

-I haven't got 25 to my name.

-You don't look it.

But it's true.

Honestly.

The work isn't hard. You said so yourself.

-I can answer phones and keep records.

-And type?

-I'll practise.

-And take dictation?

-I could take it in long hand.

I write fast. And I'm good with children.

Yes. You are. That's important.

For 25 a week, it's hard to get somebody perfect.

-Well?

-I'll give you a trial.

Oh, thank you.

Can you start, or do you want to look around and begin tomorrow?

-I might as well. Start, I mean.

-OK.

-If it's OK with you?

-Miss Murray can show you around.

-Thank you very much.

-Goodbye. I mean...

Good afternoon. Dr Quinada and Dr Hoffman's office.

-Hello. Will you hold, please?

-Any calls?

There was one from Mrs Palmer.

And Mrs Bernstein's in your office with Miss Murray.

Say, Le, would you mind calling her Bern-STEEN?

She never knows who you mean.

It's no tragedy. Nobody knows what anybody else is talking about.

Well, Mrs Bernsteen.

Hello? Yes.

Yes, I will.

Take her home. I don't want to hear any more.

Come on. Pick your feet up.

Mrs Rudecki, be back here at 7:30 with your husband.

Yes, Doctor, I will.

Some doctor he is!

He's a very good doctor.

-I think you'd better come in, Miss Eames.

-Yes, sir.

Do you often chat with Mrs Rudecki and the other mothers?

No, not often.

Did you suggest that she give Lorraine elocution lessons?

-Yes.

-Why?

Mr Rudecki has a foreign accent and Mrs Rudecki's afraid...

But wasn't there something about

if Lorraine learned to speak well and walk well, she'd marry well.

And that's the most important thing.

-Isn't that what you said?

-Yes. I said that.

Your beliefs are up to you until you pump them into my patients.

Then they become my business.

Where'd you get these ideas?

Is it your burning ambition to marry rich?

Well, is it?

Is that... Is that all...

No.

-Do you want this job permanently?

-Yes.

You act as if it's a temporary stopgap.

Your typing, filing, desk work haven't improved one iota.

I'm sorry.

Why don't you do something about it?

I don't want to bring up your personal standards again,

but you're letting them slop into your work.

You're a receptionist in an east side doctor's office,

not a hostess on Park Avenue.

How you treat your patients, the way...

Look at your hair! You're so fancy, you're scaring people off.

They may be poor, but we want patients.

You can keep them. If everything I do is wrong, I might as well quit.

DOOR BANGS

Stupid.

-Stupid.

-What?

She's a stupid girl.

-Who?

-I criticised her work, so she got mad and quit.

-Did she?

-Her work was bad.

Was it?

She wasn't really stupid, she could be quite good, if she wanted to be.

Well, put the ad in the paper again.

Unless you want to ask her to come back.

I didn't fire her, she quit.

I don't know what's the matter with her.

You don't suppose there's anything the matter with you?

Ridiculous.

KNOCK AT DOOR

Yes. Who is it?

KNOCK AT DOOR

Just a minute.

May I come in?

May I sit down?

How did you know I was here?

I had you watched from the day you left.

I knew I wouldn't hear from you.

I wanted to be sure you were all right.

It's not a very nice way, but...

it's the only way I knew.

I guess everything turned out as you predicted.

Can you hear me?

Yes.

I've missed you. More than I thought I could miss anyone.

Thanks.

I've come running after you

to beg you to come back to me.

How's Dr... what's his name? Quinada.

All right.

-He works you pretty hard.

-Not as hard as he works himself.

-Where does this go?

-Any place.

It's too bad he isn't more successful.

He isn't just interested in success.

I'm sorry. That wasn't fair.

The truth is, I'm a little jealous of him.

You don't have any reason to be.

As much as I wish you did.

Why?

Because I'm glad to see you and...

I wish I weren't.

What are you looking for?

A cigarette.

I have one here.

-Leonora...

-It's no good. I won't go back to the way it was.

I don't want you to. I was wrong. I admit it.

-Please, Smith, no.

-It won't.

We'll make a fresh start. We'll make it how it ought to have been.

I'm so used to having my own way that... It was hard to come here.

But I missed you.

I wanted you so much.

I missed the things we ought to have done, like being together,

having a honeymoon.

Let's go on one tomorrow, Leonora. Let's start over again.

I can't see you living in this dirty little room.

-It's not dirty, Smith.

-It's shabby. It's awful.

That racket.

Let's get out of here, Leonora.

I don't mean anything. We'll take a drive or have coffee.

I just can't talk in this room.

We'll come back as soon as you ask.

-Is that a promise?

-Yes.

Turn out the light.

-Here?

-No. The other side.

-You really don't like living here.

-No-one's poor by choice.

It really isn't such a bad room.

Not if you haven't seen better.

Darling, good morning.

I would like to serve breakfast myself today. Just today.

I have a special reason. You can trust me.

Just one moment.

FRANZI WHISTLES

Good morning, darling.

Welcome home.

-What are you doing here, Franzi?

-I brought you a lovely breakfast.

Three eggs, darling.

-I don't want to get up.

-You must. Smith said to wake you.

-He did?

-Yes.

We leave in an hour.

-Who's we?

-All of us, darling. Smith, Tim,

Charlie, me, the whole crowd.

Where are we going?

On a tour of every Ohlrig part of the country. A publicity tour.

It'll be a lovely vacation and I need one.

Franzi, when did Smith decide to make this trip?

The day before yesterday.

I always said you were a smart girl.

This is a lovely suit to travel in. This and your mink.

I'm through with that coat.

-What?

-I'm through with that coat.

-Darling, this is expensive. You can't afford...

-I can.

Dr Quinada's office?

Miss Murray, this is Leonora Eames.

-I'll wait.

-Don't be stupid, Leonora.

-Take this away, please.

-I told you all this once before...

All right. All right.

Some darlings never know when they are well off.

No, but give them time and they'll find out.

Dr Quinada? I'm very sorry about yesterday and I was wondering...

Yes. I'd like to come back very much.

Yes. I'll be there as soon as I can.

Oh, come on, Le. Go home. Beat it. Here. For tomorrow morning.

I want to finish sending the bills.

Why bother? Nobody ever pays the doctor.

-Has Quinada left?

-He isn't back from the clinic.

If he's not here by nine, you can lock up.

-Good night.

-Good night.

Don't wait later than 9:30, anyway.

PHONE RINGS

Dr Quinada's office.

No. Not yet, Mrs Rudecki.

Yes, I did tell him, but... Yes, I'll tell him again, Mrs Rudecki.

Yes.

-Hello.

-Hi.

-Tired?

-Beat.

Is this becoming a habit, staying overtime?

Coffee'll be ready in a minute.

Take your coat off.

Mrs Rudecki phoned again for you to come over.

I told her this morning there was no sense in my coming over.

This is the 10th time she's called, which is a record.

You know what I'd like to do next time I see Lorraine?

Cut off those awful curls.

And you know how she could cure her stomach trouble?

By sending her mother to a good psychiatrist.

-Any temperature?

-No. It's normal, but Lorraine's seeing double.

-Seeing double?

-Yes.

-Miss Murray's gone, hasn't she?

-Yes.

Le, grab a taxi and get over to the city drugstore.

-You know where it is?

-Yeah, I'll find it.

-You have some money, haven't you?

-Sure.

Have this filled and meet me at the Rudecki's right away.

-And hurry.

-Yeah.

That light's too bright for her eyes. Find something to shade it.

I'm afraid it's botulism.

Botulism?

It's a fancy word for a very bad kind of food poisoning.

THEY SPEAK EASTERN-EUROPEAN LANGUAGE

Mama means will she get all right?

I don't know. I think so, but I don't know for sure.

You say I'm why she's sick and you won't come.

That canned meat she had must have been the cause.

Anyone else eat it?

-No.

-Is there any left?

The kitchen window.

MR RUDECKI: You shouldn't have used it.

THEY ALL TALK AT ONCE

I'll give her an injection every six hours till it takes effect.

If it takes effect.

It will.

Even when you treat cases like this immediately, 18% die.

I know all the statistics. I'm a good textbook doctor.

-What's the matter, Quinada?

-I slipped up.

I assumed it was her usual stomach trouble.

-A doctor can't assume.

-Anyone can make a mistake.

Not when it comes to a kid's life. I should have come straight over.

What are you doing?

You were shouting a little and I didn't want the Rudeckis to hear.

Good idea.

You might just as well go home.

-It's after one o'clock.

-No. I'll stay.

OK.

I'll be back here at about noon to give her another injection.

Thank you, Doctor.

-Sleepy?

-Uh-uh. Not a bit.

I'm used to staying up all night.

You wait till about nine o'clock. That's when it catches up on you.

-Aren't you cold?

-No.

Why do you wear that silly coat? Haven't you got a warmer one?

-I thought it would rain yesterday.

-You must be freezing.

-How much would it cost to buy you a warm coat?

-Oh, no.

Rudecki paid me for the last two months.

-I've got an overcoat.

-It's very nice of you, but...

All right. You go home and get some sleep.

I'm going home to take a bath, but I'm coming back to work.

What do you think I am, a Park Avenue hostess?

No, not a bit.

-Good morning, Le.

-Good morning.

Don't you ever go home?

Come in.

-It's really too early to be sure.

-I know.

Are you worried?

That's a silly question.

How long will a lab report take?

Well, if you went there now, yourself,

they'd probably let you know first thing tomorrow.

-Can I just go?

-I'll call and tell them you're coming.

Please.

I...

You won't say anything?

To Quinada?

Yes.

No.

It's none of my business, Le, but don't you think that you should?

I... I couldn't.

He's really a marvellous fella.

I know, but...

it's too much of a mess.

OK.

Anyway, thanks.

I must say, you don't look it.

Look what?

As though you've been up all night. Mrs Rudecki just phoned...

Good morning, Doctor.

-Good morning.

-Morning.

Good morning, Mrs...

Where are you going?

I think I'd better get some sleep. It's catching up with me.

Le...

I know you'd rather freeze, but...

Will you try it on?

It's not mink, but it'll keep you warm. That's the main thing.

I hope it fits.

That's not bad. Turn around, let's see the front.

Now, Leonora...

Don't do that.

I'm sorry.

Thank you.

We still have our date tonight?

I was mad at you that day.

Did I ever apologise for bawling you out so badly?

What in the world made you think of that?

Was that because of how I talked about marrying rich?

It makes me see red when people talk that way.

My parents were miserable

due to an exaggerated idea about money's importance.

-Got a light, sweetie?

-Sure.

By the time I came along, they'd lost most of it.

Muchas gracias.

Your hair looks good that way.

Thank you.

You look very lovely.

Is something worrying you?

No. I'm very happy.

Go on about your parents.

Oh, they just wasted their lives pretending to be rich.

Conniving and finagling.

Never working, of course.

-Thanks, sweetie.

-Oh, thank you.

-This isn't mine.

-Well, don't you want it?

-No, thank you.

-Well, muchas gracias.

I can't imagine you pretending to be rich, or pretending anything.

I did for a while, until I pulled out of it.

-Two more, sir?

-No, we're fine. Unless...

Oh, no. Thank you.

Larry, was it very difficult?

No.

That's because you don't care about money.

I've got to care to some extent.

How else could I take you out to dinner when I want to?

But I care more about other things, like doing work that interests me.

-Is that why you work on the east side?

-Sure.

I learn more there in a day than anyplace else in a month.

-Sweetie, let's go.

-I beg your pardon?

Well, that's perfectly OK.

-Buenos nochas.

-Buenos nochas.

-That's a wonderful smile you've got.

-Charming.

-What?

-Nothing. I was just remembering something.

I wish I could remember where I saw you before.

-I don't think you did.

-Didn't you come to town from Long Island?

-No. Hardly ever.

-What were you doing there?

Oh, I was sort of a paid companion to somebody who was very rich.

Let's dance.

All right. I'm not very good.

-We don't have to.

-I'd like to.

-I haven't danced in ages.

-You'd rather not.

-Not unless you would.

-I'm as happy here.

-So am I.

Let's dance.

-I'm sorry. I stepped on your foot.

-You didn't.

Good. It was somebody else's.

This dancing is quite an invention. You can get away with murder.

I'm having a wonderful time.

Oops.

We ought to have done this ages ago.

Why don't we go out on Saturday? And then spend Sunday together.

-And Monday too.

-Sure.

And Tuesday.

And then we can go dancing again on Saturday night.

And then spend Sunday again.

You know, it'd be much simpler if we were married.

Then we wouldn't have to make dates.

Did you hear what I said?

Yes.

I was proposing.

-You weren't?

-Sure. Why not?

You know, Larry, I...

I want to marry you more than anything in the world, but...

But?

There's something I have to straighten out first.

Let's not talk about it.

OK.

I'll propose again tomorrow.

ELECTRIC SHAVER

What's new?

I brought in a nine-pounder, this afternoon. A boy.

Congratulations.

It was a madhouse today.

-A rat race.

-A little boy swallowed a dime.

No news from Leonora.

Maybe she isn't feeling well. She'll be back tomorrow.

I dropped by her place on the way back. She's moved.

Where to?

Long Island the landlady said.

This pipe's on the blink. We need a plumber.

-What about the landlord?

-We'll never catch him.

I was out with her last night.

Oh. Did she say anything?

About leaving? No.

Did you criticise her again?

No.

I proposed to her, as a matter of fact.

I thought I'd run out to Long Island.

Oh...

Larry, was last night the first time you went out with her?

Yes.

Long Island...

I don't know.

I'd look pretty silly, anyway.

All I could get out of her

was that she was a paid companion to somebody rich.

Nice work if you can get it.

I can just hear the conversation.

"Good evening, Mr So-and-so, I'm Dr Quinada.

"Are you by any chance

keeping one of my former employees, a Miss Leonora Eames?"

Yeah.

Well...

Why don't you forget her?

Do you think so?

Yeah.

Good night.

Good night, Larry.

Yes.

I'll tell him.

..which shows no conception of the problem in dollars and cents.

As to paragraph 4, this too is ridiculous.

If you want me to invest... Who was that?

-Dr Quinada is calling to see a Miss Eames.

-Who?

-Miss Eames?

-I'll get rid of him, darling.

-Get rid of yourself. Send him in.

-Of course, darling.

If you want me to invest one penny, you will do it my way or not at all.

Sincerely yours.

-That's all, gentlemen. Good night.

-Good night.

­ In here, please.

Good evening.

I'm Smith Ohlrig. Would you like a drink?

Thank you.

Is Miss Eames here?

-She'll be down. Champagne?

-I'd prefer something else.

-Scotch?

-That'd be fine.

I might have known you'd be good-looking.

Leonora was impressed with you.

I was very much impressed with her.

She started from scratch and learned to do a good job.

-Soda?

-Plain water, please.

Also, she's attractive. That always helps.

Yes, it does.

I'm glad you and Leonora are hitting it off so well.

There's nothing like extra-curricular romance, is there?

That's hardly your business.

Just interested in employer/employee relationships.

Leonora was an employee of mine.

-In a way, she still is.

-How do you mean?

We're still married.

I always had a curious feeling that I'd seen Leonora before.

Now I know where.

In the newspapers.

A picture. Right after your wedding.

I'd better go. I'm afraid I've made a mistake.

I'm afraid you have.

Thank you.

Larry...

Larry, meet me outside.

-Where?

-In the garden around the side.

Larry.

Why didn't you tell me? How could you run off?

-I tried to tell you.

-When?

-The first day, but I wanted the job.

But you sat at that bar and said nothing.

-I couldn't.

-Did you know you'd go back to him?

-Not then.

-What made you do it?

-I had to.

-You said you loved me.

-I do. I...

-Then what is it?

Are you afraid of him?

-No, I...

-Well, what? Tell me.

I'm going to have a baby.

Le, listen.

Forget that I love you. I mean it.

Forget that I want to marry you, but believe me,

you can't stay here. You must go.

It's not because of how I feel.

I was with him for three minutes, but I know he's not normal.

-You've got to get out of here.

-It's his baby.

So you'll let him destroy you and your child?

-No. I won't let him.

-You'll help, without meaning to.

You know what happens to a child whose parents are messed up.

I know what happens when the parents have nothing.

-That's why you came back.

-I came for my baby, for security.

You want money. That's why you married him.

-I loved him.

-You made yourself think so.

You felt it wrong to marry for money, so you made yourself...

You've got ridiculous ideas. Marry rich, live rich.

-I didn't know what to do.

-You know what you want.

-I want you.

-But you want your child to be rich.

Make up your mind. I'd never say you can be secure without money,

but money alone isn't security, as you should know.

-What should I do? Tell me.

-Grow up.

If you'll want mink coats and houses like this, I don't want you.

DOOR OPENS

Trying to recapture the feeling of the east side?

I thought you were moral,

not the type to make passes at someone's wife.

Leonora doesn't surprise me.

-That's enough.

-Look...

And stop clenching your fists.

I'd take a crack at you, but it won't settle a thing.

The only one of us who can settle this is Leonora.

-Larry was...

-Don't...

-I'll tell you.

I told Leonora I loved her and want to marry her.

Did you bother to tell him about the child?

-I told her that you'd ruin it.

-You take a lot for granted.

I don't even want Leonora until she decides how important money is.

-I can answer that...

-It's her answer I'm interested in.

If you make up your mind, you can always call.

Whose child are you having?

Since I came back, I've listened to your filthy insinuations.

-I'm not any more.

-Come down here.

I said, come down here.

You came back to get a divorce.

You wanted to divorce me

and live happily ever after with him on my money.

I don't want your money.

But you do want to leave me, don't you?

Yes.

We're all wrong together, Smith.

It's been a mistake from the beginning.

You can have a divorce on one condition.

Come down here.

Leonora, you still walk like a model, and not a very good one.

Are you in love with your doctor friend?

You are, aren't you?

-What does it...?

-Admit it.

-Do you care whether I am, or not?

-I want you to be in love with him.

-Why?

-Because then it's easier for me to win.

Win what?

What is it you want, Smith?

You can have your divorce, but I get the child.

That's the condition.

You know I wouldn't do that.

Yes. I also know I can get custody of the child any time I want.

-How?

-By suing you for divorce and naming Quinada as co-respondent.

We haven't done anything wrong.

With money, you can always get people to swear to anything.

You wouldn't.

Oh, yes, I would. And what's more, I will.

If you ever so much as talk to him on the phone.

You once said you thought after we married you were sorry.

I hated myself for being such a fool.

I never wanted you to start with.

The more you fought me, the more I disliked you.

I think now I hate you.

I only care about breaking you and if I have to use the child, I will.

You know I can't stand losing.

Only nice people lose and you're a nice girl.

You came for the child.

If you want it, you're stuck here. Probably for the rest of your life.

Smith...

Smith, wait! Wait, Smith!

Smith! Oh, Smith, you don't mean it. You're just angry with me.

Smith, listen. Please, let me have my baby.

Don't take my baby, Smith. Don't.

Oh, Smith!

Oh, Smith...

"From the way that multi-millionaire

"has treated his wife the last months,

"we understand she is ready to call their estate Wit's End. Ha! Ha!"

I can't even get her on the phone.

Tell Leonora I want to see her.

-Sir, it's so late.

-Tell Leonora I want to see her. Now.

CLOCK CHIMES THREE

TAPPING

KNOCK AT DOOR

FRANZI: Leonora.

KNOCK AT DOOR

Leonora! I know you're awake.

Leonora.

PERSISTENT KNOCKING

He's in a rage. He'll come up himself. You know that.

Leonora.

Why didn't you answer the phone? He is in a terrible rage.

-I didn't hear.

-He had to ring for five minutes from a meeting.

I pulled it out. I won't let him call night after night,

-week after week every night.

-Yes, yes. I know, darling.

-He wants you to come downstairs.

-No. No.

-Just a few minutes.

-No, I won't.

He is furious. I've never seen him so upset.

The doctor told him I mustn't.

The doctor told him I mustn't go out of the house. I must get sleep.

He knows that. He was told he mustn't call

and take me out of the house at all hours.

-Just this last time.

-No. I can't.

-Please.

No. I won't. I won't.

I won't.

Larry...

Larry, I need you.

Larry, they won't let me sleep.

I want to sleep, Larry.

They won't let me. Help, please, Larry, make them leave me alone.

-Smith.

-Is she coming down?

She's sick. I feel sorry for her. I think it's a mistake.

-To treat her like...

-Is she coming down?!

Why do you think I sent you, you dirty parasite? Get her down.

I think I'd prefer to be a head waiter again, Mr Ohlrig.

I know you've got a big name, but not big enough to destroy that girl.

Goodbye.

Dirty little snake.

Big enough to...

If he doesn't come down...

BANG

SMITH: Leonora!

No.

(SMITH GASPS)

Leonora.

Get me some water...

Get me some water.

Leonora.

Le...

Le, get me some...

..water.

Leonora.

Leonora...

..I need...

..water... water...

Blood pressure 110/70.

EKG normal.

He'll live.

Discontinue the oxygen.

Le?

I killed him...

I killed him.

He was lying on the floor

and I left him there.

I killed him.

-I called you.

-I'm here, darling.

I'm here.

I killed him.

I did it.

I killed him.

I wanted him to die.

Larry.

Larry, I need you.

I went...

-I went back...

-Here, take a drink.

-I went back and...

-Put your head back.