Original subtitles

THE MISSISSIPI GAMBLER

Keep trying, I guess.

Get down there.

Just can't seem to do it, that's all.

Get down there.

It I sure can't do it the way them travelers men did it.

But I'm getting better.

You're sure they were traveling men then.

Oh, yes. I had the sample cases right with lace and garter.

You know, I swore I knew where that queen was every time.

And they took $20 of my pin money just like that.

Well, anyway, they give me the card to practice with.

You might end up a gambler.

Well, I'm going to try it on the folks back home till I get my money back.

Maybe I can get my money back right now.

Excuse me.

Bet you $20 you can't find that queen.

Done.

- You're a professional. - No. But I'm going to be.

You certainly are.

I never saw anyone switch cards that perfectly.

You're the first one that hadn't complained about it.

What is your name?

Mark Fallon. May I ask yours?

Polly. Kansas John, they call me, except the ones that lose money.

- Never heard of me? - No.

- You're not from this part of the country? - No. New York.

Active in gambling, eh?

Well, in a way.

There was always a game going on in my father's

fencing academy ever since I can remember.

I finally got tall enough to sit in between fencing lessons.

Well, you're a decent looking young fellow, Mr. Fallon.

I don't know why you want to get mixed up in a crooked life like this.

- I'm not. - But you said...

I get a different idea about gambling, Mr. Polly.

I'm going to deal honest cards.

Well, that sure will be a novelty on this river.

I hope you're good.

You'll be up against some mighty dirty competition.

Just for instance.

Well, you I'd steer clear of, Mr. F. Montague Caldwell.

You, boy. You there. Get this luggage aboard.

Should we follow respectfully in his wake?

If those diamonds lighten our way.

- How much of a stake have you got? - $600.

You got nerves, son.

Hold on, Put it all!

Oh, we're not late, my sweet brother. I won my bet.

You're just a maniac. You almost killed us.

You owe me $100 and a bottle of wine, which you can drink yourself.

I need it!

Gently!

Quiet.

Thank you.

I was afraid you'd tip over.

High strung thoroughbreds like those need a gentle hand.

Oh really?

Well, I've handled high strung thoroughbred successfully for quite a few years,

and I assure you I would this time.

Undoubtedly.

Sometimes horses and beautiful women are upset by whistles.

You're an expert on both?

I'm interested in both.

My sister doesn't care to discuss your interests.

So it seems.

Somebody ought to take that little pepper pot over their knee and whale her.

She didn't cure the horses that way.

Women are different. You just don't know.

$20 to ten she looks back.

Here's where I get my money back.

I think you do.

The Lord made this, and the Lord made us.

And the lord made man and woman.

Man and woman.

Everything in a whole wide creation

Come, obey to Lord, come

Now, that was just sheer luck.

I thought you had aces.

Would you gentlemen mind if I join the game?

Certainly not. It would be a pleasure, sir.

The more the merrier, the bigger the pot.

Excuse me.

I think you'll find the stakes a little too high.

That's what interests me.

Could we have a fresh deck of cards?

Do you question this one?

You may enjoy losing with them,

but I like an even chance of winning.

- In other words, I'm cheating. - Gentlemen, gentlemen.

If there is any accusation, it is to me, Mr...

What is your name?

Mark Fallon, Mr. Caldwell.

I ordered these new cards from the bartender.

- Bartender! - Yes sir.

He placed them on the table himself and they were put in play.

Sometimes bartenders don't recognize

the quality of the gentleman they sell to.

Thank you, sir.

Bartender? What do you mean selling a deck like this?

What's wrong with this, Sir?

This gentleman discovered they were sacked or something.

Crooked for sharpers!

Well, believe me, sir, I don't know.

The devil is what you don't know.

If I ever see another one of these in play on this ship,

I'll report you to the captain.

Now let's have some legitimate seal decks at once.

Yes, sir.

One card.

One also.

Well, let's make it unanimous, gentlemen. One.

Check.

$300.

Raise 300.

I don't have quite enough here,

If you gentlemen will excuse me for a moment.

Certainly, sir.

Mr. Fallon, do you want to sign a slip?

I don't bet money I don't have, Mr. Dureau.

600 don't last long, does it? Ran you out?

I have a winning hand Mr. Polly.

Will you back my play?

- 600 to me, right? - Correct, sir.

And 600.

900 and raised.

200.

Call.

Call.

Two pair, kings high.

Flush, Queen high.

Tens full.

Thank you and good night, Sir.

It wasn't no good for me.

I hope you didn't mind waiting.

- Not at all. - How much?

4100. Is that what you make it?

This will more than cover it.

I'm not in the habit of lying.

There's appraisal for more than $7,000.

This is a family heirloom. Your sister...

It's no concern of yours whose it is or what.

Does it satisfy the debt?

Yes, thank you.

You are new to the river.

Yes. Attractive life isn't?

I don't think you'll find it so.

If you ever repeat tonight's performance.

One isn't supposed to win?

One isn't supposed to show off another player or what kind of cards he's using.

The gentlemen here have a certain code of honor.

How do you spell that, Mr. Caldwell?

They haven't found spelling to be any answer.

The waters of the Mississippi are very treacherous, Mr. Fallon.

A number of unfortunates have fallen overboard from these river boats at night.

Their bodies were never recovered.

Pleasant sleep, sir.

Mr. Caldwell.

You can tell those gentlemen that I expect

to be on the Mississippi for a long time.

And any man who turns a crooked card at my

table will be exposed and thrown out of the game.

When that kind of disgrace hits a lot of men, Mr. Caldwell.

They don't wait to fall overboard.

They jump.

Good night to you, sir.

Well, looks like we're doomed to stay in the best hotel in New Orleans.

If we stay lucky.

How long do you stop over there, Polly?

Two weeks. Then I'm broke.

- How's that? - Pharaoh?

I can't help playing that game, even though I know it's crooked.

Terrible that's this device at my age.

Excuse me.

I used to say the same thing myself.

Miss Dureau.

I'm sorry to intrude, but I believe your brother

made an unintentional mistake last night.

This is yours?

Yes.

I wanted to return it to you.

How do you mean, an unintentional mistake?

I won from him at cards.

He'd been drinking a bitter. I don't think he'd have chosen this.

My brother doesn't take my property without my permission.

Sure of that?

Quite lovely.

- You must value it because... - Mr. Fallon.

I believe that's your name.

I'm don't have the habit of talking with strangers.

And I don't accept charity from gamblers.

Morning, my sweet sister.

How dare you steal my necklace?

Your necklace?

You gave it to that gambler. He showed it to me.

- I'm sorry, Leia. I had to. - Why?

Because I was just a fool.

I got in the hand of those card shops last night.

They took all my money and 4000 besides.

And you take the one thing that I love more than anything I have.

Oh, you fool.

You are a fool!

Well, how did I know the game was all right until that Fallon caught into it,

- crooked cards, everything. - Why did you pay then?

I couldn't prove it. He asked for new cards.

I couldn't catch him doing anything.

A gambling loss is a debt of honor.

My other jewelry, rings, anything.

How could you ever bring yourself to take my necklace, Laurent?

It was mother's. Grandmother's.

It'll break father's heart.

How could you?

I am sorry...

I am your brother, darling.

Are you going to blame me instead of him?

Oh, I detest him!

- That first minute he grabbed the reins. - That's better. So do I.

Laurent, nothing's important enough ever to come between us.

Let's never let any quarrel separate us.

Nothing. Ever.

Hello, Mr. Polly.

Well, hello, Spuds.

Give me a hand. Just one.

Money trouble?

Oh, with me it's always some sort of trouble.

Mr. Polly, do you remember that time you bailed me out of that Paraoh game?

I'll pay you back. Now take a look at the end of the bar.

This fellow that beat Caldwell last night. Is he a friend of yours?

- Fellow? Yeah. - You better tell him to lock himself in.

Caldwell's talking about being double crossed in his shaved deck.

They're going to get his money back.

Is there a diamond necklace?

Yeah.

You win!

- Good to see you, Spud. - Thanks.

Get your things together. We're getting out!

Caldwell's priming some of his friends to jump you.

This is one hand we can't beat.

- Don't you think we can handle? - There's too many of them.

Knife's a silent weapon. These river rats know how to use.

Well, what do we do then? Swim?

I fix it with the captain to edge the bow

under the bank to third bend down the river.

He don't have no killings aboard. Come on.

They must be on board.

We've got to get them before we reach New Orleans.

Search the port side. Search the boiler and engine rooms.

Search the upper deck.

There they are Go get them.

Hard starboard.

Hope the captain gets it in close to the shore.

I'm no good for jumping.

- This gold weighs a ton! - I'll take your carpet bag.

Jump, Polly! Jump!

Polly!

Polly!

I thought you drowned.

I had to throw away every doggone in bag of gold.

You what?

Had me anchored two feet of mud.

I can just see you bailing up.

I've journeyed to New Orleans many times, but never on foot.

NEW ORLEANS

The colors, the lines... "Magnifique"!

Excuse me, sir.

What a city!

Even street names have magic in them.

Carondolet, Royal, Saint Charles...

If you please, "monsieur".

You haven't seen half of it yet.

Congo Square, Place d'Armes, Orleans Theater...

Now that we got our new bib and tucker let's eat tonight at Antoine's.

Magnifique. You are pleased, monsieur?

- Fine, fine. Excellent. - Merci.

I'll meet you there at eight with an appetite.

I'm going to put in a fast hour of fencing, if I can find a match.

Still want to see Exchange Alley?

I've dreamed about seeing that ever

since I was knee high fencing with a stick.

My father told me all about the schools here.

The finest outside of Paris.

He called it "The street of the fencing masters".

Mark.

Just remember, it's filled with the same breed

of cat as that Dureau fellow with a necklace.

Uppity. Young Creole. They want to duel every time you sneeze near them.

My best behavior, sir.

I'll dispose of these old garments.

No, you don't.

You clean that, fix it up fine.

That's my business suit.

Touche. A beautiful hit, Mr. Fallon.

One needs a few to match your skill, sir.

Touche!

Mr. Dureau. Gentlemen.

Good afternoon, dear Master.

Who is this young man?

He's Mr. Fallon, from New York, I understand.

Surprising for a Northerner.

Indeed.

Touche!

That same low line hit again.

- Congratulations, Sir. - Thank you.

Thank you. I appreciate your taking me on.

That low inside line attack seems familiar from somewhere.

Very unusual.

It's a pleasure to irritate the master now and then.

You see, you've defeated his star pupil.

Excuse me.

- Good afternoon, Mr. Dureau. - Well fought, Etienne.

Thank you, sir.

Monsieur Fallon, may I present you to Monsieur Edmond Dureau.

- How do you do, sir? - My compliments, Mr. Fallon.

You have courage to let the point come so close before parrying.

- You're very kind. - Monsieur Dureau is a severe critic.

I've seldom seen such an accurate sense of distance.

Would you fence with me?

After you've rested?

- Pleasure now, if you like. - Good.

It neither of us seems able to gain an advantage.

I suggest we finish some other time in private

and leave the gentlemen here with a mystery.

Fair enough.

- Bravo. - Bravo.

Thank you.

They'll talk of this battle for a long time.

Thank heaven for a manner.

These young tops with handkerchiefs in their sleeves.

Tumbling about honor and pin, pricking each other.

They handle swords like parasols.

I wouldn't say that Etienne was one of them.

I know. He is a remarkable exception.

- Whom did you study that? - My father.

Fallon...

Ah, that's it. Didn't he teach in Paris?

Yes. Years ago.

I told him they try and remember that low inside line attack.

I was at your father's academy many times.

He's well, I hope.

He died recently in New York.

I am sorry. My apologies.

I also recall a two year old boy toddling off

to the Luxembourg Gardens with his nurse.

Your father was devoted to you.

Yes.

I'd enjoy having you call it my home, Mr. Fallon.

Is Laurent Dureau your son?

Yes. You know him?

I met him and your daughter on the boat.

Did you?

Yes. I don't think they'll want me to call.

Why not?

- I'm a river gambler. - Ridiculous.

No one with your skill at foils could have spent much time at a gaming table.

How long have you been on the river?

- Five days. - Ah, that explains it.

Shall we say tomorrow afternoon at four?

Thank you.

Am I becoming enough for two galant escorts?

- She's fishing for a compliment. - I am not.

Don't let her fool you, George. It's a rag she bought in St. Louis.

I bought nothing in the north. Lassell made it.

Ignore him, Leia. You look absolutely ravishing.

Thank you, monsieur.

You've been telling her that since she was five.

Why don't you marry the man, Leia?

He's gay, charming,

he dances well,

his father owns the biggest bank,

and he suits me perfectly as a friend.

There you are.

I'll even tolerate this imbecile as best man.

Ah-ha! Tolerate.

When will you marry me, Leia?

Years and years from now.

It is too long.

But I'll spend the entire evening with you and Laurent.

If you'll take me to see the voodoo dancers,

- We'll be enchanted. - Oh, no.

- Mr. Fallon. - Mr. Dureau is expecting you, sir.

If you will wait in here, please, sir.

Thank you.

- Welcome to my home, Mr. Fallon. - It's an honor to be here, sir.

- Shall we sit over here? - Thank you.

Father. We're going to Victor's for dinner and then on to Congo...

Come in, my dear.

I don't wish to meet Mr. Fallon again.

Angelique.

What do you expect from me, father?

I know the gentleman associate with such

people in the coffee houses and gambling places.

But I've never heard of anyone bringing him into his home,

and introducing them to the women of the household.

Angelique.

I choose very carefully whom I bring into my house.

And while they're under this roof, you will show courtesy to them.

I must apologize for my daughter's discourtesy.

I think it was embarrassment.

That I might return this.

Her brother lost it to me on the boat.

After having seen that portrait, I...

I know it must mean a great deal to you.

Yes, it does.

He settled a gambling debt with it. How much?

$4100.

I'll instruct my bankers to credit the amount to you tomorrow.

No, I don't want anything for it. And it is not your debt.

It's the only way I can accept it.

Please sit down.

- I suggest a glass of port. - Excellent.

My life...

has caught up with me.

Unfortunately, my own wild

and reckless youth has become somewhat legendary in New Orleans.

My children patterned themselves in their father's tradition.

They've been motherless since Leia's birth.

I've never been able to be a stern disciplinarian.

The first time I met Miss Dureau,

I told her that a high strung thoroughbred needs a gentle hand.

I wasn't given a chance to say much more.

Another reason you came here today was to see Angelique again.

Yes.

Victor's for dinner and on to Congo.

I think we should choose two very beautiful ladies,

and tour the city tonight.

If I going loose you this early,

I'll take you away now.

Oh, you conversation pieces. How can you be so disinterested?

Leia, we've watched it a hundred times.

Very well, my dear, but what are you seeing?

I don't think you're in level now.

Now to Antoine, Moreau, and Miguel. In this order.

And then?

Wish me the envy of all.

Come in, father.

I'm so glad you're going in the carriage with George and me.

Really? Am I so charming a chaperone?

Or is it that I keep George from proposing again?

Both, my wise darling.

He wants to announce it at the ball tonight.

I haven't heard anything else since he became president of the bank.

He's going to settle down. He promises to work hard.

- He loves me and on and on. - It doesn't interest you?

Well, no, it's not that.

I just keep telling him we're too young to take such a serious step.

His father always hoped you two would marry.

Do you want us to?

I think your choice will be a wise one.

When you're no longer too young to decide.

It isn't because you're interested in Mark Fallon?

That man?

Certainly not!

How could you think such a thing?

His name seems to arouse more emotion than most.

So does a thorn when I step on it.

You call him Mark?

I dinner with him often when he's in New Orleans.

He's become very successful and popular.

I don't want to hear about him, Father.

Why did you bring his name up?

Because...

I want you to wear something for me tonight.

Your mother always wore it,

when I escorted her to Governor's Ball.

She was beautiful, Angelique.

I wish she could see you tonight.

I'm so ashamed...

Please forgive me, Father.

I couldn't tell you. I knew how much it would hurt you.

Laurent, and...

we don't deserve you. The things that we do.

I do not know why.

Just seems to be in our blood.

A crazy fever.

Yes, it's in our blood.

There's nothing to forgive, my sweet.

You and Laurent are pale little

pomegranates compared with your father.

Now.

Now, what will the governor think of me if I

escort two tearful red eyes into his presence?

- Edmond! - Madam Lisanne.

Leia, may I announce our engagement tonight.

Please, no. Not tonight.

Excuse me.

Angelique!

Welcome, my dear.

Now, the ball's a success.

Your excellence.

- Edmund, my friend. - Paul.

- George. - Good evening, your excellency.

Angelique, may I present my very good friend, Mr. Fallon.

Miss Dureau.

Good evening.

I've already had the pleasure.

You know each other? Splendid.

- Mark, how are you? - Fine, sir. And you?

Mark. You haven't met Mr. Elwood. George. This is Mr. Fallon.

Mr. Elwood.

A pleasure, sir.

How do you do?

Will you excuse us, sir?

Certainly. Anyone who'd miss a chance to

dance with Angelique would be guilty of treason.

I adore you, your excellency.

Leia. May I have another dance?

- Mine is fourth. - No, that's mine. Yours is the fifth.

- Where is Laurent? - Huddling with the champagne.

I'm having a hunt breakfast Sunday. Would you like to ride with us?

- I'd love to. - Ah, Mark!

I've just been inviting Angelique to a hunt breakfast Sunday.

What about you're joining us?

I'd like nothing better, sir, but I'm going upriver tomorrow.

Business before pleasure.

Not this evening.

Miss Dureau,

may I have this dance?

Well...

Well, don't be afraid, my dear. The ladies tell me he's an excellent dancer.

Thank you.

You can thank the governor.

I will.

It would have been a great pleasure to refuse you.

Oh, I know. That's why I waited.

The necklace becomes you as much as it did your mother.

I'm amazed that you could bring yourself to give it a father.

Weren't you able to sell it?

Is that what you really think?

Yes.

Well, You are right.

He paid me for it.

May I ask you one question before I leave you abruptly?

Yes.

Knowing how I feel about you, why did you humiliate yourself by asking me to dance?

A matter of courtesy.

If a man is going to ask a woman to humiliate

herself, he should be willing to accept it first.

I don't understand.

You and I are in love with each other.

We always will be.

We've known it since that first moment we met in St. Louis.

But you're not ready for marriage yet.

And I won't be until you come to me.

Were you completely contested?

Yes, it does sound that way. Put into words.

But it's the only way that a woman can be truly happy with a man.

Leia!

- What's the matter? - Are you trying to kill yourself?

Or put me in the hospital?

It's good exercise. Makes you sleep better.

I don't have any trouble sleeping.

I love this place!

Isn't the river beautiful from here?

All the boats passing by like little toys.

Trailing a white string.

Since why did you get so sentimental over riverboats?

Or is it the passengers?

Don't be ridiculous.

Just a lovely view.

You look at it often enough.

George said he rode down with you yesterday.

Well, why not? It's father's land.

I'll build a home here someday.

You?

What is the matter with you, Leia?

Nothing!

Counting all that cotton we won.

No. I'm thinking about all that money you had me put in that bank.

Hundreds of miles away. And other fellows finger.

I am not used to that.

You know what we're going to do when we get enough?

What?

Build a combination restaurant and gambling place,

better than any other in New Orleans.

Rich, exclusive, with crystals, silver.

Everything to lure the ladies and keep them happy while they gamble.

Ladies gamble? Where did you get that crazy idea?

Where else can they go when their husbands gamble.

Tea parties, sewing circles, sit home alone.

They're bored, Polly.

They want the same excitement their husbands enjoy.

- We'll supply it for them. - Not me.

You try any crackpot ideas you want,

but you're not going to get me off this river.

Well, you can say what you like, but I'll make you a little side

bet that you come running the minute I get those Pharaoh tables in.

I like them better when they're on boats.

How long have you been on the river, Polly?

Around thirty years.

You ever feel it was a lonely life?

Well, yes...

When I was young,

I'd find myself wishing all the pretty girls to take to boat traveling,

instead of hiding in those houses ashore.

Many a night I'd stand out here and look at those lighted windows.

Think about it.

Especially when the lights are upstairs.

Sure can get moonstruck on a night like this.

It's not good.

Nope. I'm going inside.

Polly.

Five honest cards.

Yes. Mark. You've got me weep.

But you know, sometimes I get an awful itch to take some of those suckers.

No conference tomorrow morning.

Captain says we won't get to New Orleans till about 01:30.

It's good. More time for poker.

May I introduce myself, Mr. Fallon?

My name is Julian Conant.

How do you do?

I've heard that one always meets with fair play at your table.

Yes, that's true.

I'd like to sit in a few. And the other gentlemen don't mind.

- Pleasure. - You're welcome, sir.

- Six makes a much better game. - Thank you.

Some real blood in the game.

200.

Call and raised 300.

I'm out.

You've had an unusually bad run of luck.

Perhaps you shouldn't let us take advantage of it.

- It might change tomorrow. - Thank you.

But I think it's changed already. 500 more.

- Call. - Too steep for me.

- Call. - Pass.

One card.

I'll play these.

So will I.

Check.

1000.

- Call. - I'm out.

Three kings.

Three aces.

May I ask you a question, Mr. Fallon?

Of course.

You knew when you called me that your three aces were better than my pat hand.

- I was quite sure. - But how?

I noticed that each time you bluffed and only then,

you hooked your thumb over the top of your cards.

Gentlemen.

Mr. Conant...

Why did he do that?

He lost all his money.

He has a sister aboard. I hate to think of telling.

I'd like to go with you.

You take care of him.

Who is it?

It's captain Evers ma'am.

Come in.

Good evening, Captain.

Good evening.

I'm afraid we have bad news for you, ma'am.

Your brother...

Julian? What's wrong?

He shot himself.

- Where is he? - It's no use, Miss,

I've got to...

Better for you to stay right here. There's nothing you can do.

Oh, no...

No...

it can't be truly.

He would never have done that.

There is no reason...

Could you tell us your parents or someone we could reach for you?

We have any parents.

I can't believe it...

Julian would never...

He was carrying money for his firm.

Somebody else did it to rob him.

That must be it.

No, he was wiser than that.

He left the company money with Captain Evers for safekeeping.

I'm a friend of the Captain, Miss Conant.

Mark Fallon. I'd like to offer my help.

Anything I can do here or New Orleans.

I'd be very grateful.

I don't know anyone there.

If you will sign here, please, Miss Conant.

Your brother's name, then by you.

I'm deeply sorry to ask you here at a time like this.

I would have come to your hotel, but the bank had to certify that your...

firm had met the option time limit.

I understand.

Would you count that, Miss?

Mr. Elwood? Would you verify the contracts to make the deposit?

George.

Hello, Laurent.

I'll be ready to go as soon as I finish this.

- Who's that girl with Fallon? - Miss Conant.

- Ann Conant. - She is beautiful.

Yes, she is.

Present me to her.

Isn't a very good time, Laurent. She just lost her brother.

I held the services this morning.

Oh, I'm sorry to hear that.

I've never seen anyone so beautiful.

Please, George.

I've got to meet her.

All right.

It's all in order.

Thank you again.

And my apologies.

- Mr. Fallon. - Goodbye.

Miss Conant.

May I present my friend, Laurent Dureau.

- How do you do? - Miss Conant.

Mr. Fallon.

Mr. Dureau.

If you forgive Miss Conant, she should get back to the hotel.

I understand. My deepest sympathy.

If there's anything I can ever do, please let me help.

Thank you.

Polly?

Well, good afternoon, Miss Conant.

I talked to the manager and he promises to have a room for you within an hour.

We...

We thought perhaps you might care to take lunch here quietly.

Thank you.

You've both been so wonderful to me.

We don't know how much your help is meant.

Wasn't help. We just like you.

And...

Polly and I are taking a boat north next week.

If you'd care to go back home at the same time.

Well, I...

I haven't any reason to go back to Springfield now.

We only lived there for Julian's work.

I'd rather live here.

If I can find a flat somewhere.

- It's a beautiful city. - I think you'd be happy here.

There are a lot of attractive people you'd enjoy annoying?

Yes?

- Yes. - Good.

Then we'll start looking for a place tomorrow.

Will you and Mr. Polly be gone long?

No, we'll be back on your doorstep.

You are a very beautiful girl, Ann.

And from the first moment you're seen in public,

you'll be so busy, you won't be able to keep track of us.

No, that will never happen.

For Miss Conant.

Mr. Polly told she'd be in here.

Thank you, sir.

Oh, how lovely.

Laurent Dureau?

The man at the bank.

How thoughtful for me.

You've been seen in public already.

- You're dealing seconds. - That's a lie.

Well, you wouldn't kill a man before the draw.

Get out of the game.

Well...

Well, you're right, Mark.

Honest cards are more exciting than money.

The camellias for Mademoiselle.

With the Mr. Dureau compliments.

Thank you.

They are exquisite!

You've all been so lovely. Every day.

My apartment looks like a garden.

I drove by every day, too,

looking at your windows.

Waiting till I thought you might feel like going out.

- Who's that beautiful girl with Laurent? - We don't know.

Let's find out.

Have you ever met Laurent? Well, he's jealous.

No.

I'll not force to introduce you now.

He's insane about her.

No competition, uh?

No competition.

Do you like opera?

- I've never heard one. - Really?

Then I have a perfect evening in store for you Saturday.

Julia Calve singing, the Orleans Theater.

Oh, I am sorry.

I'd love to hear her, but I can't go then.

Mr. Fallon and Mr. Polly are coming in. I'm going to meet them at the boat.

Please. I counted on it so much.

I'd like to some other time.

Many other times.

It's such a glorious day.

I could stroll like this forever.

I'm glad that you were right.

About what?

I find happiness in New Orleans.

I love every nook and cranny.

Of quaint old houses, tipsy chimneys.

And all that wrought iron lace work on the balconies.

Makes you want to live in every one of them.

To know all about every person who

ever walked through those old rooms.

You're either a born historian or a homemaker.

Yes, I'm more of a homemaker.

Laurent's sister.

Angelique Dureau.

She's as lovely as her name.

I'll enjoy meeting her.

- Meeting her? - Yes. And her father.

Laurent invited me to his home next week.

Do you mind?

You will meet a great gentleman.

What's the matter, Mark? Nervous?

I'm worried.

About Ann.

You mean how she feels about you?

She's had enough hurt in her life.

Well, that's one game you can't beat.

You're looking too many lighted windows. You're in trouble.

You're looking only one...

You're in trouble.

Laurent?

- But we didn't have an engagement. - I had to see you, Anne.

I can't stand being away from you another day.

All the formalities of your meeting my family.

Formalities? Why? You do not...

- That's only social... - No.

Means I want to marry you.

I love you, Anne. I can't wait any longer to tell you.

Well, you can't be sure of what you're saying.

You've only known me a short time.

Time doesn't mean anything.

You've become my whole life since the first minute I saw you.

I've never been in love before.

I never knew anything could be so perfect.

And yet, such torture...

I give you my last devotion, Ann.

Will you marry me? Today? Now?

Oh, I'm sorry, Laurent.

You have been wonderful to me, but...

No!

You can't refuse me. Not yet.

I didn't have any right to ask you so soon.

I'll wait for your answer till you've known me.

No. No. I have to tell you now.

Please don't go on hoping.

I can never be in love with you.

Because you're in love with someone else.

Yes, I am.

Not Fallon?

Yes.

How can you waste your love on a man like that?

Throw it in the gutter to someone that doesn't even deserve to look at you.

- Please. - Cheating you too.

Cheating everyone.

Has he told you he's in love with my sister?

Angelique?

He's been in love with her ever since he came here.

You'd think of loving anyone like that?

I don't believe that love asks for any reward.

Come and have some dinner with us.

I don't want any.

- What happened to him? - I don't know, but I'll keep on drinking.

I'll find his carriage. We better try to get him home.

Good evening, Mr. Fallon.

How many women do you want in your stable, Fallon?

Not satisfied trying to get my sister.

- Mr. Dureau... - Keep out of this!

You are lying to Ann about me.

Trying to break us up.

You want her for yourself in that flat you so thoughtfully got her.

You're drunk, Dureau.

Go home and sober up till you can talk sense.

I want you a Dueling oaks!

Please. If you can leave your women long enough.

Whenever you like.

Our seconds will settle that.

Come on!

Mr. Fallon...

You fool, you.

- You're no match for him in a duel. - He can't sad...

- I'm better than any of you. - That's true. But he's a...

- It's all my fault. - Please let me talk to him.

No. It has nothing to do with you, Ann.

This has been building for a long time.

Oh, what are you doing here, Mark?

There's no need of this. You win hands down.

Will dividing everything between you and me. Nonsense.

You do think something might happen?

I want you to act as my second Polly.

You can get your gambling friend Bozener for the other.

You'd have a long face if you couldn't make side bets.

- Mr. Fallon? - Come in.

I am Pierre Lagnier. This is Andre Briant.

We've come on behalf of Mr. Laurent Dureau.

Miss Conant, Mr. Polly.

You may speak freely.

If we could meet with your second sir to arrange a meeting...

Shall we do without the formalities? Let's say tomorrow morning at 06:00?

Very good.

As the challenge party, you have choice of weapons, sir?

Pistols.

Thank you, sir.

Pistols?

Mark, are you crazy?

Don't worry.

Come in.

You're going to kill Laurent.

Perhaps he'll kill me.

Did you come to ask me not to?

No.

Are you as skilled with a pistol as you are with a sword?

Hardly.

Perhaps you came to see me once more because I might not be alive tomorrow.

I came only because I thought some member of the

family should thank you for not taking advantage of him.

But you didn't know there was less advantage in pistols until I just told you.

Angelique!

Angelique!

When are you going to admit to

yourself that you use your brother as a shield?

Your devotion to him because you're afraid of life.

And men!

Because your mother died giving you birth?

You have a great vitality!

A driving hunger to live.

I hope he kills you!

Take your places, gentlemen.

You will each step off ten paces.

Start pacing. One...

two, three, four, five, six...

seven eight nine ten.

I will count to three.

On the word three,

you will turn and fire.

Ready, gentlemen?

One.

Two.

You may fire, Mr. Fallon.

He's coming now, sir.

I asked for Laurent.

He told me what happened. I have a right to hear.

Laurent,

Please gather your belongings and leave at your earliest convenience.

Father...

you can't ask such a thing.

Laurent!

You do that to him when he needs you most.

Father, you can't.

The whole city will be against him.

Would you let George Elwood be the only

one to stand by him and not you, his own family?

I have nothing further to say.

If he goes,

I leave with him. Father.

This home will be lonely without you, Angelique.

His Excellency Governor Paul O. Monet

request your presence at the marriage of Mademoiselle Angelique Dureau

to monsieur George Elwood

at three o'clock on Wednesday afternoon December 15, 1844

I'll meet you in the carriage.

What's wrong, Leia?

Another month and you won't have any social life left.

I've just turned down some more

invitations because they didn't invite Laurent.

Good.

Keep on doing it. They're boors anyway.

Keep that chin high, Leia. Always high.

I love the way you walk through restaurants with Laurent and me.

Like a queen, ignoring the cuts they give him.

You're wonderful.

You and your mother have been wonderful too.

The wedding invitations, came.

Oh, fine.

Marriage of Mademoiselle...

"Angelique Dureau to..."

Beautiful name, that girl.

Sure she isn't marrying the fellow because she's getting used to him,

living in his home?

Because he's been devoted to her all his life.

There's the sweetest person she had ever known.

And is there love hiding around somewhere too?

And we'll find it.

I adore you.

Angelique!

I couldn't stay away and just let you get the invitation.

I'm glad.

I couldn't go down the aisle unless I held your arm.

Will you give me away, Father?

Of course?

Are you quite sure, Leia?

Of wanting you?

That you aren't making a mistake?

Of course not. How could you ask such a question?

You know, we've grown up from Charles's expecting to be married,

our two families.

Well, everyone in New Orleans has always said it's a perfect match.

That's all very true,

but do you love him?

Yes.

I received one myself.

You love her, Mark.

Yes.

Put a stop to this.

Go and get her.

Do you really believe she knows herself well enough

yet to find happiness in marriage to anyone?

No.

There's just a hope.

Dearly beloved,

We're get together here in the sight of God.

And in the face of this company,

to join together this man and this woman in holy matrimony.

Into this holy state these two persons present

come now to be joined.

If any man can show just cause...

why they may not lawfully be joined together.

Let him now speak,

or else hereafter forever hold his peace.

I require and charge you both,

as ye will answer at the dreadful day of Judgment.

When the secrets of all hearts shall be disclosed.

That ye may so live together in this life that in the world to come,

ye may have life everlasting.

Amen.

Congratulations, George.

- It's for you. - Thank you.

Wonderful, darling.

- A long and happy life! - Honor to the bride and groom!

I want you to widen this arch about 4ft.

I want people to see the full sweep of the

gaming rooms from all parts of the dining room.

If there's any excitement over someone winning,

I want all the diners to know about it.

Eat less, play more. I'll give you a double arch.

Good. It's good.

I'll be on the river most of the time.

Miss Conant will be in complete charge of interior decorations,

choice of material, furnishings, everything.

Well, that'll be a real pleasure. I'll have a complete staff at your service.

Still not going to help me run it, Polly?

Not me.

I'm invested in it. But I'm not going to wear those droop flap

tailcoats all the time.

They're like a cow's tail, whacking flies.

I'd think twice about this if I were you.

You know, you could play Pharaoh at your

own tables all the time and never lose a cent.

Where are you going to locate the Pharao?

I'll show you. Maybe you can improve on them.

It's a plot!

That's it. A double arch will just do it.

I wish you were going to be here with us.

So do I.

We're getting in pretty deep on this and I haven't

made enough yet to bank the tables against any big loss.

Maybe we can persuade Polly.

That Pharaoh table has him in the mood.

- Leia! - Leia!

She never speaks about her brother.

Does anyone know where Lauren's gone?

- No. - Not a thing.

- Leia, do hurry? - In a few minutes.

Leia, we'll be late.

You should always be late and make a grand entrance!

Our new Parisian dresses all the women will hate us.

Where are you, Leia?

What do you mean, where am I? I'm here.

No. Where are you?

Every time I hold you in my arms, you seem a thousand miles away.

It's like holding a shadow that's drifting somewhere.

No substance, no warmth.

George!

How can you say that?

Put your arms around me. I am here.

We're never here. We're never alone.

Ever since our honeymoon, always going, going.

That crowd...

I love you, Leia, but I can't reach you.

What is it?

I don't know what you mean. I don't, George.

When Laurent disappeared, I was frightened.

But I'm not anymore.

I do love you, George.

I'm trying to make you happy, and proud of me.

Please tell me I haven't failed this much.

No, darling. I don't know why I say it. I don't know what it is.

I want too much of you.

I can't stay away from you.

George! Leia!

Come along!

Well, Fallon's luck certainly goes beyond cards.

Having a mistress like that beauty.

That's a lie, Carnes!

Miss Conant is a lady,

And Mark Fallon, a gentleman of the cleanest integrity.

I'll ask you to retract that slander.

Don't be naive, Dureau.

Men don't rent flats for women for platonic reasons.

Or let them design gambling palaces.

I'll retract nothing.

I'll name my second this afternoon.

A pleasure!

I sure wish we could have gone all the way.

Yes. It's a great party.

Mark deserved every minute of it.

What's Fallon calling his place?

La Louisiana.

We'll have to take a special trip down there and see it.

Watch out Mark!

Dureau!

Who is it?

Why did he do that? Do you know him?

I never saw him before.

Best luck to La Louisiana.

I see you at the opening!

Goodbye, Mark.

Hello Polly. I've missed you.

I won't...

What's wrong?

Sorry to meet you with bad news, Mark.

What?

Mr. Dureau said something about you and Ann and his presence.

And he well, his sword arm's not what it used to be.

He's hurt pretty bad.

Mark.

Come, sit here.

Stay with me, Angelique.

I'm grateful to you for defending Miss Conant.

But you should have waited for me.

I've never ignored an insult to a lady, Mark.

Perhaps that's why my dueling life's been a full one.

You must hurry and get well.

You gave me your word you'd be at the opening of La Louisiana.

No, I won't be there, Mark.

No regrets.

I've lived a long life.

Now that...

I've lost my dueling touch.

I think the whole era...

belonged to the sword...

is fading with me.

Once...

Once you said that no shadow would ever stand between us.

Yes.

I've never faced to more bitter duty even...

And then to tell you...

Laurent?

He came aboard at Memphis.

With a knife.

I didn't recognize him at first. He was bearded.

It all happened so quickly.

I was unarmed. I tried to hold him off.

We struggled.

He went down.

He fell on the knife.

There wasn't anything anyone could do.

Thank you for telling me, Mark.

I couldn't hold you responsible.

In any way.

I want to ask one promise.

Anything.

Protect Angelique.

Always.

I give you have my word.

Angelique...

I thought the ods were in our favor once.

It seems to have been my lot to destroy everything you love.

Perhaps you knew that from the start.

I won't intrude again.

Touche!

Mark!

Sanford!

That inside low line hidden of you, is always perfect.

- Thank you for the bout, mate. - It was a pleasure.

Thank you.

Why the long face, Mark?

You keep your money at George Elwood's bank, don't you?

Yes.

We came to tell you to draw it out tomorrow morning.

That's what we're doing.

Why?

Elwood's been neglecting the bank for months.

Throwing his money around.

- Buying furniture from Paris. - Have you seen Angelique's diamonds!

What's his spending got to do with the bank?

He's wealthy in his own right.

He's not that wealthy.

Well, I'll lay ds on one thing.

You three pull out of the soundest bank in the state, and it will start a run.

We're convinced of it now, Mark.

We just received this confidential report. Look at that.

Angelique transferred her entire estate into it this morning. Why?

The father back to the Southern Federal all his life.

But what's more natural than that?

A wife wanting her money in her husband's bank.

Otherwise, it might start a family argument.

Elmer!

Four large drinks for three nervous financiers.

I'll tell you what.

I'm not only gonna leave my money in,

but I'm gonna come down first thing

tomorrow and watch you draw yours out.

All right, Mark. You may be sorry.

I'm sorry, sir.

But he's entertaining at dinner and can't be disturbed.

But, sir, please.

No, sir.

Didn't the butler give you my message?

I'm sorry, sir.

Never mind, Benjamin. Close the door.

Yes, sir.

I think this is important enough to take the liberty.

John Sanford, Hewitt and Alden Keith

have told me that they're withdrawing their accounts tomorrow morning.

Is your bank in shape to stand it?

The bank is in perfect shape.

You can take yours out too, if you like.

You shouldn't have transferred Mrs. Ellwood's estate into it.

- It's causing talk. - Mr. Fallon.

My husband had nothing to do with that.

I changed my account and only because I wish to.

John Sanford and the others will be waiting when you open.

You'd better be prepared to handle a run.

If you have any more suggestions,

please call the bank during business hours.

I think you promised my wife not to intrude on her again.

I also made a promise to his father.

George...

Is there any danger?

Certainly not.

Well, why did you ask me to change my account?

Has the day arrived that you believe Fallon?

Withdrawals are rising a little above deposits. I'm worried, Mr. Elwood.

I told you not to. Everything is all right.

- Ah! Mr. Galbreth! - George.

- Why don't you sit down, sir? - Thank you.

- Quite a busy afternoon. - Yes, indeed.

The banking division is concerned about the

way these rumors are developing, George.

Now don't tell me that you...

Please understand me. We know they're groundless.

The stability of the bank is unquestioned.

But a run can be damaging. And reflect upon the other banks.

Yes, that is possible.

The thing is to stop it cold.

We'll send our examiner in the morning, make a brief check of the books.

Issue an official statement to reassure the public.

Don't you think that's best?

- Yes, an excellent idea. - Good.

I'll see you then.

Good bye, sir.

The president George Elwood Disappears. $200,000 Cash Missing.

New Orleans mob storms Bank In Pandemonium of Protest.

George Ellwood, president of the Gulf City Bank,

could not be found today.

Well...

- Well, looks like we wait a while. - Yep.

I think I'll stick to Pharaoh. You can lose. It easier that way.

I'm sorry. I dragged you down with me, Polly.

What are you talking about?

You had it saved up until yesterday.

It would have been all right if that fool hadn't gone and looted it.

Forget it, Mark. I feel fine, honest.

I told you depositing money made me nervous.

And after all your work...

I wish just one of those beautiful curtains had got here.

So I could see it hanging.

Yeah, that inlaid Pharaoh table.

You'll complete it someday.

We can start right now. You got a new deck of cards?

You mean that?

Why I got a dozen of them.

And the Sultana leaves at nine tonight.

I've been keeping track of the sailings, huh?

- I've been missing those battle wheels. - So have I.

Well, I better get those reservations.

See you later, Ann.

Anne, I hate leaving you here alone after

you being so much a part of all our plans.

I know, but that is our destiny, Mark.

I'll always be grateful for what you've done.

But I haven't any claim on your life. I know that now.

Even if this beautiful place had been finished,

it never would have held you.

So if I can just see you and Polly once in a while,

and know that everything is well with you.

You're wonderful.

You'll sign the bill of sale here, Angelique.

The Larouchets are in no hurry to take over.

They said to move at your own convenience.

Next week. We'll be fine.

Oh, I'm so happy to see you rid of this place, Angelique.

To close this whole unhappy chapter of your life.

You'll be going back to your own home.

I don't know.

You haven't been there since your father's death.

I think he would have wanted you to live there.

Let me know when you decide.

Yes.

Thanks, Stanley.

Goodbye, my dear.

- Captain. - Oh, Mr. Fallon.

Goes without saying.

You'll be going back up the river with us again.

You can always count on me.

Fine. You make these trips so interesting and exciting for us.

And profitable for myself.

Did you find out about Leia?

- Everything all right? - Yeah.

This time I think you want to stop over, Mark.

Court handed out a decision. She's free.

You know. You promised her father you'd always look out for her.

Go to her, Mark.

Try to see her.

No, it...

It wouldn't work out.

It's better this way.

Well, I guess I never saw any man win all his bets.

When are you going to admit to yourself

that you use your brother as a shield?

Your devotion to him because you're afraid of life?

Because your mother died giving you birth?

You and I are in love with each other.

We always will be.

I want you.

And your happiness.

Let's take off the gangway.

Cast off all lines!

Wherever you go...

Translation: Kilo