Original subtitles

Okay, boss.

Where did she go?

As of last night, they hadn't made up their minds. I'll find out. Hiya,

Okay, bye. I'll get it.

Hi, Chuck.

Hiya, Penny.

Hey, you're kind of early, aren't you? Gail isn't home from school yet.

Believe it or not, I haven't come to see Gail at this moment.

Well, Joan isn't home yet either.

Now, don't tell me you've come to see her.

This has nothing to do with either of your sisters.

Right now, I'm here on business.

Oh, gosh, it's here. Why didn't you say so?

Oh, boy, that's a dilly, isn't it? Are you going to hook it up right away?

Yeah, if it's the last word to put it. It's to go in the den. Okay. What's in

here? This way, Frank.

Oh, gosh, that's wonderful. I'm the only one home, and I'll get to see it work

before they all come trailing in.

Hey, are you sure that strap isn't tied too tight? You don't want to scrape the

bonus. Get wobbly. Be very careful.

Now, you quit being so bossy. Okay, okay, I'm sorry.

Watch those steps.

I'll get the door.

Excuse me.

Hey, wipe your feet.

Belinda, don't you want to watch?

Come on, Vi, let me take a second.

Hello, Chuck. Hello, Vi.

Isn't it keen, Vi? Look, girly, before you monkey with the set, let's find out

where we're going to put it. And get that dog out of here before you... Yeah,

where's it to go, Vi? Over there where the desk is.

Oh, no, Vi, you're crazy. Daddy said... Your mother said there.

I know, but Daddy... It's going where your mother said.

All right, sold.

Mother knows best.

Come on, Belinda.

Now, look it, Chuck. You're just waiting. Your tiger's going to have to

over there anyway.

Daddy's going to hit the ceiling when he comes home.

Now, you know this is a big mistake.

After all, Daddy is... Will you make it go away, Chuck?

No, no. Please let me watch. I'll shut up. I promise. I really will.

All right, then. Shut up.

What's that little gadget for?

Will it be hooked up soon?

Well, why don't you go outside and watch Chuck up on the roof?

Make him nervous.

Okay.

You want to break your silly little neck?

Okay, okay.

Don't get emotional.

Hi, Mother!

Up here!

Penny! Get off that ladder!

Go back into the house at once!

Okay, okay. They're putting in the television, and I'm just watching.

Well, don't watch my...

Good afternoon.

His name's Frank.

He has three children.

This is my mother. Penny, don't talk so much.

You know, I'm beginning to think that it might be better there.

Maybe Daddy was right.

Or there.

Mother.

He doesn't like to be criticized.

He says it makes him nervous. Oh.

Well, then tell him he doesn't have to move it.

Mother says it's okay where it is.

Die nice of her.

Do you mind?

Give me that.

Go away, will you?

I'm only trying to help.

Is this a razor blade?

Yeah.

Why don't you go out and play with it?

Let that alone.

Oh, look what you did.

I... Oh,

thanks for the lift, Sazza. Oh, Gail, are you coming over tonight after

I've got a lot of new records and the whole crowd will be there. Please come.

Good, I'd love to.

Hey, hiya, Gail.

Hello, Chuck.

I'll be down in a little while. Okay.

If I can come tonight, I'll get Chuck to bring me. Is he still the big moment in

your life?

Yes. Oh, this isn't just a crush.

He's wonderful.

Oh, there's Daddy. Well, I'll try to see you later. Bye, Zaza. Goodbye, Gail.

Hello, sweetie. Hello, Daddy.

Look, they're putting in the television.

That's why you came home early.

Could be. Hiya, Mr. McCauley. Hi.

Did you notice that gorgeous new Cadillac, Daddy? That's Aziz. Her father

gave it to her. New Cadillac for a child that age. Hasn't he got more sense?

That's all right, Daddy. I love you even if you don't hand out new Cadillacs.

He waited for me outside the school.

And when I came out, do you know what he did? He slapped me right across the

face. How do you like that?

I like it.

Hiya, Daddy. Hi,

Gail. Hi, Penny. Isn't it swell?

Good afternoon.

His name's Frank.

I'm helping him.

This is my daddy.

And that's Gail.

She's the woman that has a crush on Chuck.

Penny.

You know, I don't think it belongs in this room at all.

Maybe it might... Shh.

Don't criticize me. I don't like it there.

What do you think?

I'd rather not say.

Daddy!

He's very temperamental. He only wants me to watch him. If everybody will only

leave him alone, I'll take...

rest anymore.

I explained to them that you got rattled being watched.

Thanks a lot.

Thanks a lot, First. Hey, Joan, what's the hurry?

They're putting in the television. I want to watch.

Hi, Chuck.

Doesn't he look cute up there?

Looks like you've still got a crush on that character.

Who, me?

Yeah, you.

Oh, don't be such a jerk.

So long.

Haven't we?

Well, where do you think it ought to go?

I think it's perfect just where it is.

Now, her I could go for in a big way.

Aren't you going to say God bless you?

Not me.

Would it be all right if I asked Chuck to take me over to Zaza's after dinner?

They're having some people.

Ask Daddy.

Why pass the buck to me? You know how I feel.

New Cadillacs.

Oh, Dad.

It isn't Zaza's fault that her father's so rich.

She's a darling girl and my very best friend.

She asked me to bring Chuck.

Let me?

Okay, okay.

Thanks.

Hi, Chuck.

Hi.

Mind if I watch?

It's kind of messy from working up here.

I think you look very pretty.

I bet you tell. I told the boys on the news.

Joan? Yeah?

What are you doing up there?

Just watching, Chuck.

Don't you think you're getting a little too old to be climbing ladders?

Oh. Oh, you know me. Just a kid at heart.

I was just coming down anyway.

See you later.

Wait till he comes down. No fun making on a rooftop.

Hello. All finished.

Good.

You know, if you were to put on a nice white shirt and a tie, you might get

invited to take me to a party tonight.

Okay.

You've twisted my arm.

You've had quite a workout.

I'm practically on my way home to take a shower.

What were you and Joan talking about?

Nothing. Just talking.

Oh, Daddy, it looks like it's snowing. Oh, Fred, what's the matter?

Now, hold on a second. I'll have it in a minute.

There it is.

But it's so scrambled.

It's terrible. I can see that.

No, Daddy, not that dial. Let me show you. I can do it. Let me do it.

Oh, Daddy, that's much too bright.

Twist that little knob.

There are too many backseat drivers around this television set.

Fred, why don't you let Penny show you? You know, I think the man explained to

her. Yes, Frank told me how to do it. I'm paying for the set.

Do you mind if I learn how to work it myself?

Oh, never mind, Daddy.

Rescue's at hand.

That'll be Chuck to pick me up.

Oh, Daddy, that's much worse.

Hi. Hi.

Daddy's having kittens because he doesn't know how to work the set.

Come and show him. Okay.

If you have any difficulties, sir, this is a book of instructions. I understand

it now. I can manage. You run along.

Good night, kid. Good night, Daddy. Good night.

Good night. Hey, Gail.

John doesn't have a date for you tonight, so why don't you take her along

you?

Penny, how can you be so tactless?

Well, why not?

Why shouldn't they take her? This isn't like a regular date.

Why don't we take her along, Gail?

All right.

Come along if you'd like to, Jo.

Oh, I'm sure it'll be all right.

I do know Zaza just as well as you do. You're awfully nice to want to take her.

But she's staying home tonight. She has some studying to do.

Okay, then.

I'll walk with him to the car.

Good night, Mother. Good night. Good night. Good night.

Penny's way past your bedtime, are you? Oh, no, it's still early. Go on. Penny!

Oh, Mother.

Daddy. Good night, Penny.

Oh, gee whiz. Come on, Belinda.

I never get to do anything.

Nice boy, that Chuck.

I like him better each time we see him.

I think he'd be quite suitable.

Suitable?

Well, Gail's almost 18.

Girls do get married at that age. Oh, for heaven's sake.

She's a kid.

It just so happens that I was several months younger than Gail is now when you

married me.

Remember?

Oh, well, that was different.

You had good sense.

Look at the prize you caught.

I did all right.

Why are you trying on Gale's dress?

Penny, you're supposed to be asleep.

So were you at this hour.

He really is awfully cute, isn't he?

Who?

President Truman.

Very funny.

Who do you really like best, Chuck or Bert?

Go to sleep and don't ask silly questions.

Boy, did you notice how Gail burned up? I think it was very silly of you even to

suggest it.

You'd have loved to go, wouldn't you?

Go to sleep and don't talk nonsense.

Well, it's true, isn't it?

Never mind.

People only say don't talk nonsense when you're getting warm.

Joan, what are you doing out? Why aren't you in bed?

Well, I was studying, and then I decided to try Gail's dress on.

Doesn't it look cute on me, Mother?

Yes, but you know Gail doesn't like you to wear her clothes.

Now go to bed, but first put Belinda out.

In a minute, Mother. Good night.

We're home very early.

That's right.

I want you folks to realize I'm a sturdy, reliable character who brings

before curfew.

Oh, they're sold on you already.

Are they?

Uh -huh.

They're probably all asleep.

Want to come in for a while?

Well, what's wrong with that swing?

Not a thing.

I even keep the springs well armed.

Terribly sorry?

Well, I had no idea.

You're home so early.

Why on earth aren't you in bed?

Well, Mother told me to put Belinda out.

I'm sorry.

Really.

May I ask what you were doing with my dress on?

I was just trying it on, Gail.

I guess I'd better go to bed now.

That might be a good idea.

Oh, come on, Gail.

She didn't mean to do it. I'm terribly sorry.

Honestly.

Good night, Chuck.

Good night, Joan.

Don't worry about the dress, Gail.

It isn't in the least bit crushed.

And don't you think it looks better on me than it does on you?

Good night.

Come on, Belinda.

Leave her alone. You were supposed to be putting her out, weren't you?

Yes, of course.

Good night.

Oh, now, quit scowling.

Come on. Snap out of it.

Here. No, not now.

Oh, now, look.

Ball her out if you want to, but don't be mad at me.

I'm not.

Good night, John.

I want to talk to you.

Not now. It's so late.

Here's your own dress.

Come out in the hall.

Shh. Do you want to wake Mother and Daddy?

I said I was sorry about the dress. Never mind about the dress. I'm talking

about Chuck.

I don't know what you mean.

Don't act so innocent.

What were you doing up on the roof being so cute and coy?

I mean, I don't know what you're so excited about.

I'm sure Chuck doesn't notice anyone when you're around.

To him, I'm just your kid sister.

Like Penny.

Okay.

But kid sisters can be a pain in the neck, too.

Let's forget it.

Do you want the dress?

Sure.

It's yours.

But I bet Mother won't let you wear a cut so low.

Good night.

My God.

Why'd you have to ask Gwendolyn? She can't even dance.

She's a very sweet girl.

But she's crazy about you.

Well, I'm not crazy about her.

Bye, Freddie. Okay, Gwendolyn.

Let's go. My car's over there. Not today. Chuck said he'd come and pick me

We're going down to the beach for a quick swim.

Oh, okay.

Have fun and I'll see you tonight.

Johnny! Hey, Johnny!

Guess what?

Peggy just came from the office and they're taking applications for those

jobs. It's very simple. You just have to prove you're over 16.

You're going to do it, aren't you? You bet.

I'd like to make some pin money this summer. Me too.

Oh, would I love to get a job modeling.

Like what, for instance?

Tents?

I'll turn blue.

Do you want to come with us now and sign up, Joanie? Okay, let's go.

Hey! Oh, don't wait for me, Bert. I'll get a lift.

Make it snappy.

Okay. Oh,

gosh. You're an impatient character.

Uh -huh.

Oh.

Boy.

If I could deliver goods like this instead of television sets, I'd really

the chips.

The water's going to feel good. Uh -huh.

You take care of it. Yep, got it.

This is the most beautiful spot, Chuck.

Beautiful spot.

Beautiful day.

Beautiful girl.

Beautiful line.

You know, I'll always remember that we did this on my 18th birthday.

Why just on your 18th?

Why don't you and I do this on your birthday every year?

Say, for the next 50 years, anyway.

Okay. It's a date.

Sure. Yeah.

Have any other girls ever used your truck as a blessing?

Sure.

Millions of them.

The only reason I went into the business.

No, seriously, have they?

No.

You're the only one.

Oh, that feels good.

That feels better.

That's the best.

See if you can tell what I'm writing.

Well? It feels like a, like an S.

Where did you ever learn to write?

No. No.

I. Right, that's the first word.

Second.

L -O -V -E.

Now, where have I heard that word before?

The last word?

Y -O -U.

Period.

How many films have you done that to? Oh, millions.

Only reason I ever learned to write.

That's a very interesting method of communication.

But this is better.

Come on, let's go, Chris.

Here we

go.

Hi.

Hi. It's about time.

Come and help me. Where's Mother? In the dining room.

Mother? Oh, hello, dear. Will you help Penny with the tables? Gail's not home.

Okay, I will.

But first I want to ask you something very important. Oh, dear, I'd forgotten

about the hole.

Well, we can just put the punch bowl over it.

Mother, it's about that job this summer. Joan, I'm terribly busy. I'm sure it

can wait.

Mother, all I need is my birth certificate to prove I'm over 16.

Then I can get the job.

But I've got to bring it into the office tomorrow because Gwendolyn says...

Lady, we ought to use our own dirt plate.

Oh, dear, I hope none of them get broken.

Will you get them for me, Bonnie? Yes, I will. Mother, please, couldn't I have

it now?

If you'll tell me where it's kept, I'll get it.

I know we'll forget it if I don't.

Mother, I simply must have it. Oh, right there.

It's in the desk in my room. It's in the bottom drawer in that steel box where

all the papers are kept.

Okay. Thanks a lot.

Oh, it's in a long envelope marked Joan's birth certificate. You can't miss

Okay. Are you going to help me now?

In a minute. I'm busy.

Fine thing. I do all the work.

Eight Indians.

2 ,000 students.

It was right on top.

Mother, it's going to be such fun working this summer.

Hey, Joe.

Come and help.

Okay. Okay.

Don't be late. Okay.

Hi.

How's my birthday, child? Oh, I feel just wonderful, Daddy.

Hi, sweetie.

Hi, Daddy. Hi, Johnny.

What are you staring at?

Nothing.

I was just wondering how it would feel. How what would feel? Being 18?

You'll soon know.

Yeah.

But it won't be quite the same.

Why not?

Oh, nothing. Skip it.

Okay.

Hey, Lois, where are you?

I'm up in our bedroom, Fred. Come up a minute.

Close the door, dear.

What's up?

Oh, it's... Probably nothing, but I've done something foolish and I'm worried.

Well, what about?

Well, it was like this.

Joan was pressed for me to get her birth certificate for that summer job.

I was busy. I wasn't even thinking.

And I told her to come up and get it for herself.

Completely forgetting that... Of course, it was

way at the bottom.

I hope that... Stop worrying.

I'm sure she didn't see it.

Well, if she had, she'd have spoken about it, asked you questions, wouldn't

I guess so. I just don't know. All the kid wanted was her birth certificate.

Well, she's not the snoopy kind going through papers that are none of her

business. Oh, I'd hate for Gail ever to find out.

Listen, they haven't the remotest idea, any of them.

Now, why should they?

You're imagining things.

Maybe we should have told Gail when she was old enough to understand.

Maybe.

But we didn't.

And we never will.

Now, forget it.

Whenever the girls fight, I think about it.

Whenever I think about it, I know that Gayle's your daughter.

Every bit as much as if you'd given birth to her.

Now, snap out of it.

They do fight, of course, but I think they really adore each other. Don't you?

They're wonderful kids, all three of them.

And I get it all from you.

A bit dopey at times.

Also like you.

And sometimes hard to handle.

Like you.

I love my locket, Daddy.

Look, Chuck, isn't it beautiful?

Combination birthday and graduation present. Oh, I don't know about that.

I think we might manage to buy her something from the dime store when she

graduates. No, no, no dice. She chose to get herself born just before people

graduate. That's her tough job.

Would you put it on for me, Mother, please? Yes.

Here we are.

I'm never going to take it off.

Not even in the shower.

Right away.

Birthday cake, kids.

Here, let me.

on the committee for seating arrangements.

Hey, Bert.

Yeah?

I suppose you'd rather be over at Joan's table. Yes, sir.

That's a cute dress.

I'm glad you like it.

You're covered with cake crumbs, Joan.

Joan, you might help serve the cake.

It's your party.

And your birthday?

It's nothing of that.

She's behaving very badly, just to annoy Gail.

There.

Daddy.

I think they've all eaten enough.

Excuse me.

Say, this is a nice party.

Penny hasn't. She's still going strong.

Well, anyway, the others are through.

Get the boys to help you fold up the bridge tables, would you please? Okay,

baby. Oh, Chad.

Bill. Joe.

How about excuse me?

Don't go yet, Chuck.

I need him to help Daddy. Do you mind?

Why not?

Take him away.

I'm used to that.

Cough -like, isn't it?

Oh, come on. We're holding up traffic. Let's go.

Excuse us.

Do you need any help, Joan? No, thanks. No, please.

Maybe it's fate.

We're linked together.

Be careful now. I don't want to tear her.

I don't like to throw up all anyway.

Here, this will make it very simple.

Let's do this, Charlie.

Sure. Joe, you're behaving very badly. I'm amazed at you.

Well, Mother, you saw what happened.

I'm not preferring only to him.

You've been neglecting Bert and all the other boys.

Now, you mustn't do that.

Oh, gosh, can I help it if he asks me to dance?

I'll bet Gail told you. She didn't have to. I've been watching you.

Now, Chuck is only being polite.

Oh, look, Peter, watch it. Now, Jones, will you listen to me?

I just adore this tune.

Don't you?

Uh -huh.

It has such wonderful rhythm.

You want to dance?

Well, I don't rumble very well.

I know, but do you want to?

Well, we could try.

Hey, Joanie.

Come on, Joanie. This is my day.

Okay, Bertie. You see, Mother?

I'm not neglecting anyone.

Time was head by all.

The end of a perfect day.

Let's take a little ride around the block.

No, Chuck.

Your flowers were so lovely a little while ago.

Now they're all faded.

Oh, now, don't go symbolic on me.

Sure they will do.

Five million people, all that heat.

Come for a ride.

Just once around the block.

Good night, Chuck.

Good night, Joan.

I'm sure Joan would love to go around the block with you.

Oh, don't be an idiot.

No necking on the sidewalk.

City ordinance.

We'll never get to first base if you start chewing your nails every time I

at your kid sister.

Now be your age and tell Joan to be hers.

That's a good idea.

I'm going right in to do that.

Good night, Chuck.

Gaylight.

My gosh, looks like we had a hurricane, not a party.

Where's Joan?

She's straightening up in the den.

I've already spoken to her. I want to speak to her.

Hello? Everybody gone?

Yes? Sit down. I want to talk to you.

Not now. I'm tired.

Yes, now. I don't care whether you're tired or not. I want to know... I've

already heard it all from Mother.

I behaved in a, quote, most shocking and unbecoming manner, unquote.

You most certainly did.

At my party, too, with my boyfriend and in my dress.

Would you like to have it back?

You can have it now.

Oh, don't be such a little fool.

Try to remember that... Yes, I know. I should remember that I'm still a little

girl. And it isn't nice to try to take away anything that belongs to you.

Anything else you'd like to add?

Plenty. I think it's simply awful the way you throw yourself at Chuck every

time... I don't have to listen to your talk. You'll listen to what I have to

and like it.

I wouldn't go on if I were you. It wouldn't hurt you once in a while to

advice. I don't need your advice.

Well, you're going to get it whether you like it or not. I have a right to tell

you that I... You don't have any rights at all.

None. Absolutely none. I am your older sister. Oh, no, you're not. You may be

older, but you're not my sister. You're not even related to me.

You're not even related to Mother and Daddy.

What do you know about that?

Joan.

Joan, how could you?

I don't know what she's talking about. What does she mean? Go to your room.

Oh, I'm so terribly sorry.

I didn't know what I was saying.

Go to your room at once. We'll talk to you later.

What does she mean?

Is it true? Tell me.

Darling, come and sit down.

You see, the doctors thought that I couldn't have a baby.

And we wanted one so much.

And then we found you.

Found? Oh, darling, we didn't just find you on a doorstep. We chose you from

hundreds of babies.

And then, as often happens when parents adopt a child, within a few months we

learned that I was going to have Joan.

We planned originally to tell you when you were old enough to understand, and

then we decided not to.

Why?

Well, because from the moment we got you, you were our very own.

And then when you were a very happy little girl of nine and I was going to

Penny, we decided that we'd just never tell you.

Did you tell Joan tonight?

No, of course not.

She needed her birth certificate.

And she must have come across your adoption papers in my desk. I can never

understand how she could do what she did tonight.

It's all right.

If it were the other way around, maybe I'd feel the same.

Oh, Gail, darling, she was all excited. She didn't know what she was saying.

She loves you.

It makes no difference.

Now try to forgive her. And us.

Trouble is, we picked a pretty smart daughter.

You pick parents that aren't so bright.

Gail, darling. It's all right.

Good night.

Thank you very much for... for giving me such a nice birthday party.

No, no, no, darling.

Gail.

Gail, I'm so ashamed.

I don't know what to say.

It's late.

But, Gail, I don't want to talk about it.

Who is it?

It's me.

May I come in?

Please, Gail, let me.

Not now, baby.

Go to sleep.

I told Dale she needn't come down for breakfast.

But is she... She's all right, though.

She's quite composed.

I left her working on her speech for graduation.

Don't you think that... Hi, funny face.

Morning, Daddy.

I went out in the yard and picked these.

They're for Dale.

I thought... Penny.

I think it was awfully sweet of you to pick them for her, dear.

But let's all try to be perfectly natural about this.

This makes no difference.

Never has made any difference.

So let's not do anything to be different now.

Okay.

Mother, if I was an adopted baby, would you tell me?

Where's the birth certificate?

It's upstairs. You can get it.

Of course, it really doesn't make any difference.

But still, I'm awfully glad you had me.

I picked those for Gail to kind of make up for all the things that I've... Well,

she's quite bossy, and I've been an awful stinker about it.

And she'll probably continue to be bossy, being her older sister.

And you'll undoubtedly continue to be a stinker about it, if you'll pardon me.

Thank you.

Thanks, Brian.

What's for Daddy?

You're welcome.

You want two pieces of bacon?

No, just one.

Like a buffalo calling to its mate.

I'll be out in a minute, Bird.

Morning, Daddy.

Hey.

Haven't you forgotten something?

After last night, I didn't think you'd want me to.

Kids do a lot of foolish things.

Sometimes they're cruel and very unkind.

But they're your kids.

You don't love them any the less.

We told you that last night.

Johnny?

Yeah.

Yo, John!

Mother, it's terribly late already, and Bert's waiting.

May I be excused? All right, dear.

Goodbye. Goodbye, Joan. Bye.

Fred, it is getting late. Will you drive Penny to school?

All right. You through, Penny?

Mm -hmm. Well, get your things. Make yourself happy.

Call me later.

You think I ought to go out and say goodbye to her? No.

Let's not do anything to make her self -conscious.

No, you're right.

Goodbye, Penny. Bye.

Good morning,

Gail.

Hello, boy.

Did they tell you? Honey, they didn't have to. I was here when they got you.

And you got that spread on crooked again.

Would you like to come down now, Gail?

They've all gone.

Daddy just drove Penny to school.

Yes, I know. I just saw them leave.

Well, he wanted to come up to say goodbye, but... Oh, it's all right.

Doesn't matter.

Well, how's it coming?

Not too well.

I don't feel very much like writing speeches for graduation.

I know, dear.

I know.

Don't worry about it too much.

Please.

It's really so very unimportant.

I'm not worried.

I was just wondering.

Are my real parents alive?

I hope you don't mind my asking. It's a very natural question.

That's why I heard the others off.

I thought you might be like talking about it now.

Are my real parents alive?

Well, your father died before you were born.

He was killed in an accident.

Your mother's alive.

Do you know her?

No, we've never even seen her.

And she doesn't know who we are.

See, the adoption was arranged through Daddy's lawyer.

And it's through him that we know that she's still living.

That's just about as much as I know, dear.

Would you mind if I went to see her?

I won't if you don't want me to.

I just thought...

Would you like me to ask Daddy to speak to the lawyer and try to arrange it for

you?

Yes.

Yes, I feel I should see her, that's all.

After all, she is my real mother.

I understand, dear.

You're only feeling what I'd want any daughter of mine to feel about her

Yes, I have it.

All right, Fred. I'll go down this afternoon.

Yes, yes, I understand.

Fred, did Max tell her why I was coming?

Oh, good.

Then she'll expect me and know what it's all about.

No.

No, I think I'd better go down alone.

All right, dear.

I'll see you at home tonight.

Mrs. Lynch?

I'm Mrs. McCauley.

Oh, yes, of course. I've been waiting for you.

Please come in.

Thank you.

Won't you sit down?

That's a nice, comfortable chair right there.

Oh, I fixed us some iced tea. It's been such a hot day.

I hope you like iced tea.

If not, I can easily... No, thank you. I think it'd be very nice.

I hope Max Hoffman explained just why I'm here.

He's our lawyer, and we asked him to tell you.

Yes, he telephoned me that it was about... Well, you can imagine how I

After all those years, it was... It was a shock.

There's lots of lemon and sugar here. No, thank you.

Mrs. Lynch, for a number of reasons, we never told Gail.

We christened your daughter Gail.

Gail. That's a pretty name.

Yes.

We never told her until yesterday that she was not our real daughter.

Yes, I know.

The man told me that.

Now that she knows all about it, well, she'd like to see you.

She really wants to see me, huh?

What for?

Isn't it very natural?

Well, isn't she happy with you? I mean... You mean you want to... Oh, no,

please don't misunderstand.

She's very happy.

Until yesterday, she never doubted for a moment she was our daughter.

It's just that... Now that she knows all about it...

She'd like to see her... her real mother.

That's all.

Yeah.

Cigarette? No, thank you.

You can be very proud of your daughter, Mrs. Lynch. She's a lovely girl.

I brought some snapshots along.

Would you like to see them?

Oh, yes, I would.

This one was taken only a few days ago.

Isn't she pretty?

Yes, she's awfully pretty.

You know, it's... It's hard to realize.

My kid.

Can you imagine?

My kid.

She's a brunette, too.

I used to be dark like her.

These are her two sisters, Joan and Penny.

Adopted, too?

No, they're our own children.

You're lucky.

I never had another kid.

You're lucky, all right.

Was she a good baby?

Healthy and all that?

She was a wonderful baby.

And she's a lovely girl.

She's graduating from high school at the end of this week.

Graduating from?

Strange.

Can you imagine that?

My kid.

18 years.

So long ago.

It just seems as though it never happened.

Look, it's like this.

Mr. Lynch don't know about it, see?

It was just one of those things.

Anyway, he doesn't know, see?

Well, he mustn't know.

If he ever knew... Oh, it was just one of those things.

You see, Mr. Lynch doesn't know about Gale. And mustn't.

But he always goes bowling on Wednesday nights, and she's alone.

So I said that we'd drive Gail down tomorrow.

Have you spoken to Gail?

Oh, yes.

Strange. I'm so proud of Gail.

And she was only apologetic and ashamed of having borne her.

She kept saying it's just one of those things.

One of those...

Must have broken all records.

Daddy, the movies are air -cooled. Can I go tonight?

Please, oh, please.

I know it's a school night. No. Now start pestering.

I guess I'd better get ready.

May I be excused? Yes, dear.

It's okay, honey. I'll get the car.

Would you rather I drove you down, Gail?

No. No, I thought... You can go down by yourself, if you'd rather.

We didn't know which you preferred. I asked Zaza to drive me down.

Why Zaza, of all people? Because she's my best friend.

I'm sorry, I didn't... I've told her all about it. I'd rather go with her.

I hope you don't mind.

No, of course not, dear.

I think perhaps it's a good idea.

You might feel self -conscious about our waiting.

Yes, that's what I thought.

You have the address, haven't you, dear?

Yes.

I think I'll wait out on the porch. It's cooler. Okay, sweetie, we'll wait up

for you. If you don't want me to go, just say so.

Gayle, you mustn't deliberately misunderstand everything I said.

You said yourself that Daddy clucks over all three of you like an old hen.

I'm sorry.

Oh, why does it have to be so hot?

Gail, please listen to me.

Before you go, I want to say... You said enough the other night. There's nothing

to say.

Look, take it out on me. I deserve it.

But you shouldn't take it out on them.

They were... Hi, Gail.

Thank you.

My gosh, you're hard to reach.

I've phoned dozens of times.

Have you?

Well, yeah.

What's the matter? What's up?

I can't talk to you now. I'm just leaving.

Leaving? Where to? Where are you going?

I'm going down to Long Beach to meet... my mother.

Your mother?

Why, isn't she in the... I don't know what you mean.

What are you talking about?

Ask Joan.

I'm sure she'll be glad to explain.

You look very cute.

One ought to try to make a good impression on one's relatives.

Come on, let's go.

Okay.

What's happened?

Come in the house, Jack.

Do you think it's foolish of me wanting to go and see her?

Don't ask me.

I'm no authority on mothers or stepmothers.

Although I've had quite a few.

Why? Do your folks think it's foolish?

No.

They don't like it too well, I guess.

I wonder if she's there yet.

She's only been gone about 40 minutes.

It's almost an hour's drive.

I wish I'd known about this before Gail left.

I could have driven her down.

Maybe I could have helped her.

I'd like to stick around till she gets home.

Sure.

Poor kid.

Just had her 18th birthday.

Graduating in a few days.

They finished her happy.

I'll get it.

Hello?

Yes?

Yes, she's here. Just a moment, please.

Mother, it's for you.

Yes.

Yes, this is Mrs. McCauley.

Yes, Mrs. Lynch.

Look, it's like this.

Mr. Lynch was going bowling, like I said, he always does, see? But he phoned

few minutes ago and said he's bringing a bunch of people out to play cards

and... I didn't know what to do. I called you right away to... Look, you

got to stop her.

But that's impossible.

She's on her way.

Yes. Yes.

What?

A gray Cadillac convertible.

Yes.

Perhaps if you waited outside your home... Yes.

Yes, all right.

Evening. Hello.

Come in.

Come in.

Is Charlie coming?

Sure, he'll be here. He's always late.

Hey, Jim, how about some beer?

Sure enough, kiddo. Oh, good.

She went out to get some air.

Good. Make with the beer, will ya?

Well, okay, but get her, will you? What's the matter? Are you paralyzed or

something? Come on, Gert. We're thirsty.

Okay, Jim.

I think we're almost there.

Yes.

Turn right at the next boulevard.

Okay.

This is it, I guess.

Yes.

Well, anyway, I'm glad she'll be alone.

I'm just going to call that.

Come on. Three little sixes. Not enough.

Three little aces. Come to proper.

That'll be Charlie now. Come on in. The door's open.

Well,

hello, cutie pie. What can I do you for?

I'm sorry to have bothered you. I must have come to the wrong bungalow.

I'm looking for a Mrs. Lynch.

Well, you came to the right place, baby.

I'm Jim Lynch.

Oh, good. Come here.

Miss America's here to see you.

For a reasonable facsimile, thereof.

Oh, man.

Oh, Gert, didn't you hear me? I got a visitor.

I'm fired.

Thanks, Gertie. It's about time.

I'm Gail.

Gail McCauley, I thought you knew.

Weren't you expecting me?

Of course, how silly of me.

This is the little McCauley girl I was telling you about, Jim. Or did I forget

to tell you? Yeah, you've been holding on to me good.

Hey, I like them young and cute like this.

Anyway, I ran across her ma the other day.

Sure, I used to know her folks way back when Gail was knee -high to a duck.

Mrs. Adams, meet Miss McCauley. How do you do? This is Miss Moran.

Pleased to meet you. Can you imagine? I haven't seen Gail since... Well, you

know, your ma said you were going to come, and I just think it's darling of

to drop by.

This is Miss Hampton. Hello. Haven't seen her ma for ages.

Come on, honey, let's go in the kitchen where we can talk, huh? No.

No, it's all right. I'll come some other time. Don't bother. Oh, no, honey.

We've got a visit, don't we?

Come on.

Come on.

Nobody will bother us in the kitchen, honey. We can have a nice talk.

Hey, Gert, you got any soft drinks?

Sure, Harry. Go on back. I'll bring you some.

Don't worry. I'll get it myself.

Oh, honey, I'm so sorry. I thought... No.

No, it's all right.

Come on. Let's try the bedroom. Come on.

I think maybe I'd better be going. Oh, no.

I'll come back another time when you're not busy.

Okay, honey.

Okay.

How about getting in the game? You leaving Judy fine?

Yeah, she has to go home.

Oh, honey, I'm so sorry. I don't know what to say.

He brought these people home unexpectedly.

I couldn't even let on who you were because Jim don't know anything about

see?

I wanted to visit with you naturally, but Jim don't know, see?

Please.

Please don't say anymore. It's all right.

I understand.

Hey, Gert, come on in and fix the sandwiches, will you?

I guess I better go in before he gets sore and smells a rat. Come on, Gert.

Gosh, we got guests.

I'm coming, Jim.

Oh, I'm so sorry, honey, but you see how it is. It's just one of those things.

Well, how was it? Tell me.

It was fine.

Wonderful.

Were you nervous or embarrassed meeting her?

Not at all.

She was very sweet.

And so pretty.

Well, what did she say?

Was she glad to see you?

Yes, of course.

Oh, I wish you wouldn't ask so many questions.

I'm sorry.

I know it's upsetting.

I'll take you home.

No.

No, I don't want to go to my house now.

Can we go to yours?

Of course we can.

I understand.

Looks like pops out again, as usual.

We'll have the whole place to ourselves.

Oh, that's fine.

Then we can talk.

Do you good.

It's nearly 12 .30. She should have been home hours ago.

Do you suppose she could still be at Long Beach?

Maybe Mrs. Lynch managed to get rid of her guests.

She could be there.

I'll bet she went straight to Zaza's house.

No, don't go.

I just want to find out if she's there, and if she is, tell her to come home.

It's no use telling her.

She must want to.

I don't care how upset she is. She has no right to do this to you.

I'll call the Brooks and find out. No, Charlie Lewis.

You want me to freshen up your drink?

No. Thank you.

What are you doing here?

I've got to talk to you. I just got through telling you over the telephone.

There's nothing to say. Look, Chuck, she doesn't want to talk about it now.

She's all upset.

I know she's upset.

That's why I'm here.

Let's go out here. Leave me alone, please.

You're going to listen to me.

And then you're going home. I am not. I want to stay here. Chuck, not now. Leave

her alone. I'm sorry to make a scene at your house, Zaza, but I've got to talk

to her.

Let's go.

Now look, you may as well quit struggling.

You're going to listen to me.

Your folks told me the whole story.

I'm sorry, Gary. Yes, I'm sure you are. But that's just it. I don't want pity

from anybody.

Pity? Why don't you let me finish?

I was only trying to tell you that I'm sorry you had...

Well, you had such a difficult meeting tonight.

It wasn't difficult at all.

She's my real mother, isn't she? That's a debatable point. I haven't come here

to talk about it.

Gail, Gail, it doesn't make any difference. Don't you know that?

Not to anyone.

Certainly not to us.

Don't you believe me?

I don't know what to believe anymore.

I'll tell you one thing to believe.

That I love you.

And it doesn't make the slightest difference to anyone.

To me or to your folks.

Then why were they afraid to let me know the truth?

Oh, why do you suppose?

They thought they were doing the best thing for you.

Maybe they made a mistake in keeping it a secret.

Is that any reason to hurt them now? The way you're doing, staying away like

this? It's not like you.

How do you know what I'm like? How does anyone know?

Gail, I didn't come up here to fight with you. I came here to tell you

That you're sorry for me, I know.

Sorry?

Why should I feel sorry for you?

You don't know how lucky you are.

One only feels sorry for kids who don't find a wonderful family like yours.

Your mother and father... I don't need you to tell me about them.

Maybe you do.

Let me ask you something.

In all your life, did you ever, ever for one instant, feel any difference?

Feel less love than Joe and a penny, did you?

No.

But you don't understand how I feel.

I understand only this.

All your life, you've taken your folks and your home and everything for

Like every other normal kid. It's very natural nobody blames you.

Least of all your mother and father.

but maybe from now on you won't take it all for granted.

If it makes that difference, I'd say it's all to the good.

Come on, let me take you home. No.

I want to stay here.

Okay.

If you can turn on everyone who loves you like this, then maybe the difference

is bigger than I thought.

Good night.

Do you want me to come in with you?

No. No, they're probably all asleep.

Good night.

Good night.

Do you realize that it's almost three?

I was with Zaza. I thought you'd understand. That's what I failed to

Why would you rather be up there with Zaza than here with us? I'm sorry you

don't like my friends. What about us?

Didn't it enter your head that we'd be waiting here, sick with anxiety,

about you?

What about your mother?

I just left my mother in Long Beach.

She's fine.

Gail? Gail?

Gail? Yes, I understand, of course. Gail?

Where's Gail? She isn't in her room. Just a minute, please.

She went to school early this morning.

Rehearsal's for graduation tomorrow.

Yes, I understand perfectly.

It was very nice of you to call me, Mrs. Lynch.

Thank you. Mrs. Lynch?

Yes.

She couldn't call last night.

She just told me what happened.

Oh, poor Gail. It must have been awful for her.

What did she say?

Let's get some coffee.

That poor child.

That's why she didn't come directly home last night.

And I had to hit her on top of all that.

Oh, I'm sure she knows why.

I don't think she'll hold it against you.

But all her life, I've never... Exactly.

It's 18 years of... All this.

And love and care.

Against a few anguished moments.

Only Gail can weigh them against each other.

here again?

Yeah, third trip today.

Big day for Gail, huh? You bet.

You gonna be there? Well, Madge, the whole family's gonna be there.

Say hello to Gail and wish her luck for me.

Okay. Oh, your telegrams. Oh, thanks.

Bye, Jimmy. Bye.

Gail!

Yes, Penny?

More congratulations.

They just came.

Thanks.

Privilege of citizenship.

Is that your speech?

Mm -hmm.

Boy, I'm glad I don't have to make a speech.

I'd die.

Hello?

Oh, hello, Zaza.

You all excited about this afternoon?

Well, just a moment. I'll call her. She's upstairs.

Gail!

Gail? Oh, no, dear, it's not for you. It's for Gail. I know.

Mother, I've just got to run in my last pair of stockings. All right, dear, look

in my bureau. Only hurry up. It's getting late. Okay.

You're an angel. Thanks a million.

Oh, honey, Zaza wants to talk to you. Call me.

Hello,

Zaza.

No, no, I'm not dressed yet, but I'm getting ready.

Yes, that'd be all right if you want to.

Bye.

She wants to come over and show me your dress and then drive me to school.

Do you mind?

Why, no, dear, of course not.

Here it is, honey. A just -finished present.

Ain't it something?

Yes, it's lovely.

Oh, I do hope we didn't get it too short.

If the slip hangs down, I'll spy to fix it for you. Sure. Oh, dear, I must fly.

When Daddy comes home, he'll still hear. Tell him I've gone to the headbusters.

Goodbye, dear. I'll see you in school.

Hey, Vanda, you better make it snappy. Gil's waiting for you. Bird already

picked up Joan. You've got plenty of time.

Okay.

Gail?

Well, it's about time.

Oh, stop worrying.

I hope you don't mind my coming over like this. I always think it's so dull

getting dressed all alone.

Oh, Gail.

Oh, this is perfectly beautiful.

Oh, where'd you get it, for Pete's sake?

Mama, it was made at home.

Let me see yours, Zaza.

Okay.

You like it? Oh, it's stunning.

Did your father help you pick it out? Oh, are you kidding?

My pop wouldn't be caught dead in a dress shop. At least not with me.

I will say one thing for him, though. He never squirts about the bills.

Well, anyway, he'll get a big kick out of seeing you in it. Not unless they put

it on television.

He's in Santa Barbara.

You mean he isn't going to see you graduate?

Well, it was a question of missing this or missing the party in Santa Barbara.

Santa Barbara won.

We'd better get dressed.

Okay.

You look terrific!

What did you wish?

Well... My wish was to get

married as quickly as possible and have scads of kids.

My mother died when I was born, and being an only child isn't all that it's

cracked up to be.

I guess families can be an awful pain in the neck sometimes, but...

There's a lot to be said for them.

What did you wish?

We'd better be going.

Come on.

We'll see you, friend.

Keep looking, boys, and you can't find us.

I wish we had been home and seen them.

And so, we can face the future as Americans should.

Confident and unafraid.

I now call upon Miss Gail McCauley, Vice President of the graduating class, to

address you. Miss McCauley.

Ladies and gentlemen, members of the faculty and student body, friends and

parents, most of us here were born in America, and

unthinkingly, we take the wonderful privilege of our citizenship for

Others, quite a few, acquired that privilege by adopting this land as their

And to them I know...

That privilege is all the more hallowed and precious.

It should be.

There are other things which too many of us take for granted.

The everyday priceless privilege of being raised in a house, which by the

of being lived in by a family ceased to be just a house and became a home.

A home filled with memories to treasure.

A home where sisters fought and made up.

Where a mother was wise and gentle and just and understanding.

Where a father was often indulgent and sometimes stern and slapped us down when

we deserved it.

All this we are too apt to take for granted.

And we never should.

For next to the great privilege of being a citizen is the simpler...

And in a sense, even greater privilege of just belonging to and being one of

a family.

She's coming. Look.

Gail.

Gail.

Oh,

Mother.

Can I see your diploma, Gail? Of course.

I'll see you later.

All right, Joni. Have fun.

Gail! Gail!

You're being paid. Run along.

Bye. Bye.

Thank you. I'm growing up.