Original subtitles

The store's closed for the night.

We'll be open again at 7 o'clock in the morning.

Just seems like we can't ever go any place

without that bell ringing. Hurry up, Ned.

Or we'll never get to this ball tonight.

Dad-burned, ornery, pigheaded.

Get in there, you!

Rose, will you tackle this blamed thing for me?

Oh, I know. Let me do it.

Anyone would think that you'd never fastened a collar before.

Didn't you tell 'em the shop was closed?

Why don't they get sick in the daytime?

Daddy, the night bell is ringing.

- I'm deaf! - There.

Now help me with my dress, dear.

Mom, I'm stuck!

Oh, dear, there's Helen again.

Never mind. Coming, dear.

Where the Sam Hill did you hide that tie?

Cornsarn pig eye!

A man never has any peace in this business.

I'm closed, dad-burnit! Get your...

Oh! I might have known it was you.

Now, don't get on your high horse

you confounded old pill-peddler.

The Lester kid's got diphtheria.

I want you to fix me up a little dope.

Why in blazes don't you go somewheres else?

- I'll be right down. - Ned? Ned!

- Where are you going? - Doc Moore again.

Oh, will you tell that old reprobate to go some place else?

- We're late as it is. - Lester kid's got diphtheria.

Father. Mother, I can't find my silk stocking.

- Coming, Helen. - Sorry to disturb you, Ned.

Yeah, you're a pesky nuisance, doc.

Seems like the only time you want anything

is when I'm in bed or going out.

- Give me the prescription. - All right. There you are.

Going to the election ball, ain't you?

Yeah, if there ain't an epidemic or something.

Well, I don't want to discourage you,

but your fellow Roosevelt hasn't got a chance.

Roosevelt is practically in now.

- Yes, he is. - Ned? Ned?

- Good evening, Mrs. Elliott. - Oh, good evening, doctor.

Ned, don't you dare start talking politics now.

- Mother, I'm all caught. - Oh. Coming, coming.

Helen, please stand still. You're squirming like an eel.

- Stop pulling my hair, clumsy! - Well...

How else can I get the hooks out of you? Just--

Girls, girls, stop quarreling.

But if she'd only stand still, mother.

- She's pulling my hair. - Now keep quiet.

If you'd only be a little more careful

instead of tearing around like a little wild cat.

- There. Never mind, hurry. - Thank you, mother darling.

- I'm ready, mother. - Oh, well, thank goodness.

There's one member in this family that I can depend on.

Here, dear. Hook me up. Your father's filling a prescription

for Dr. Moore. I do hope he doesn't keep Tom waiting.

It'll do him good, the old stick in the mud.

Don't you dare call Tom names. He's the nicest person--

Someone would think that he wanted to

marry you instead of Louise.

- Well, I'll have you underst-- - Girls, please.

Helen, go and see if Louise is ready.

All right.

Mother, I wish you'd tell Helen not to be so disrespectful.

Oh, she doesn't mean to be, dear. She's just impetuous.

Louise, may I come in?

Yes, come in.

Mother sent me to see if you were ready.

Just about. My! You look beautiful, Helen.

Think so?

I'm sure you'll be the belle of the ball.

Oh, Louise, may I borrow this for the night, please?

- Why, certainly. - Who knows?

Maybe I'll meet a dark young man there

who'll say to me, "Darling, I love you."

And I'll say, "Oh, Rudolph, you must forget me

"because my family will never allow me

to marry a penniless artist."

You've been reading French novels again.

Hm. They are lovely and exciting.

Gee, those are pretty. Tom send it?

- Yes. - When are you gonna get married?

- He hasn't asked me yet. - Oh, I wish he'd hurry up.

Well, not that I want you to leave, but the sooner

you get married, well, the sooner one of us can have

your room. I'm getting so tired of sleeping with Grace.

Sorry, but Tom can't be rushed.

Louise, may I use some of your powder?

Oh, girls your age aren't supposed to use powder.

- Louise! - Yes, mother.

Powder properly used hardly shows.

- Louise, are you ready? - Yes, I am.

Oh, dear, I don't know what to do about your father.

He's still down there with old Dr. Moore.

Ned, Ned Elliott, you come up here and finish dressing

or I'll have a tantrum fit!

I'm coming, Rose.

No more time for you, you old windbag.

Here's your bell's water. Get going.

I can't see all this fuss about Roosevelt.

Now, there's a big windbag if you like.

Ah, you reactionaries haven't any faith in him.

If only you'd use your heads

you'd know that times are changing.

Well, what's good enough for our father is good enough for me.

- They helped build the country. - Now, why didn't they finish it?

I'll sing along with the San Patters.

You'll sing alone. Now, don't bother me again.

Wow!

Here comes Tom! And there you are.

I told you times were changing. Goodnight. I'm in a hurry.

You're getting turgidity in your old age, ain't you?

Tom is coming! I can hear him!

Father, mother, Louise, Helen, Tom is coming!

Don't you hear him? There he is!

Tom! Tom, up, we're up here! Tom!

It's his new automobile. It's...

- Let me see, too! - Stop pushing.

- Land sakes! - Doesn't seem possible.

You think he can stop it?

- Nice work, Tom. - It's wonderful, Tom.

- Howdy, folks. - Hello, Tom!

I'll go let him in. I-if you don't mind, Louise.

- Not at all. - Mother, look at Helen.

She's all over powder. Now, what will Tom say?

Who cares what he says, the old moth-bag?

Don't you dare talk like that, Helen.

Grace, run along. Tom's waiting for you.

- Yes, mother. - Helen, you are impertinent.

Tom's not only the banker's son, he's your future brother-in-law.

- I don't care he's-- All right. - Come along, Helen.

But I don't see why Grace can't mind her own business.

Helen! Ned, aren't you ready yet?

Grace shouldn't talk to Helen like that.

You're always sticking up for Helen. If Grace...

Ned Elliott, if you don't put this coat on

this minute, we'll never get there.

All right. Now don't rush me, don't rush me.

It's a good thing they elect a president

only once every four years.

And when I go to New York to become a famous dancer

I bet nobody will dare tell me how much powder to use then.

You'll know better than to use too much.

And I don't see why you wanna marry that stock-dope anyway.

Tom Knivel is a nice young man.

The girl who marries him will be a very lucky person.

- Good evening, Ms. Elliott. - Good evening.

Louise, may I have the first dance?

Of course, if you dance your second with Grace.

It's a pleasure.

Hello, Louise.

Will you give me the last dance, Helen?

Oh, of course, if you dance

the next to the last one with Grace.

- Oh, with pleasure. Grace. - Yes.

May I have the next to the last dance?

- Certainly. - Thank you.

Rose, dear, I must say,

your girls are the most popular in Silver Bow.

The whole town will turn out when Tom marries Louise.

- When's it gonna be? - "When's it gonna be?"

He ain't asked her yet.

♪ Da-da di-da di-da di di-di-da... ♪♪

- Ned, stop this. - Oh.

- Quite a crowd, isn't it? - Yes.

- It's fun dancing, isn't it? - Huh?

I said, it's fun dancing, isn't it?

Oh, yes, yes, it sure is.

Stella! Hello, Stella, dear.

Oh, hello, Helen. I have a message for you.

- Oh. From whom? - You know very well from whom.

My father wanted you to save him a dance.

Oh, I'm so sorry, they're all gone.

- Where is he? - He's gone to the prize fight.

How exciting! I hope I can go someday.

Oh, Helen, how horrible. Ladies don't go to prize fights.

Oh, but I'm no lady. I'm Helen Elliott.

Attention, please.

The first returns have started to come in.

Alabama, Parker, 1208.

Roosevelt, 29. Idaho.

- Thank you, dear. - Parker, 18,480.

Roosevelt, 47,708.

Illinois, Parker

327,706.

Roosevelt, 632, 6...

Who's the man with Sam Johnson?

I don't know. I've never seen him before.

- Excuse me. - 8314.

- Tom, do you... - Georgia, Parker, 834...

There they are, the elite of Silver Bow

gathered to dance in a new president.

- Hm, nice people. - Best in the world.

Yes, maybe I'd think so, too, if I had a drink.

- Pardon? Ah. - Oh, nothing, nothing.

- Good evening, Mr. Johnson. - Hello, Helen.

- How pretty you look. - Oh, do you like it?

I'm almost sorry I went to the prize fight.

- Did Stella give you my message? - Yes, but you were too late.

I couldn't save you a single dance.

Oh, I'm quite sure I can persuade

one of the youngsters to share one with me.

Oh, sorry. Frank Medlin.

- Ms. Helen Elliott. - How do you do?

He's a newspaperman from San Francisco

and he likes prize fights better than dances

and he likes a good drink better than pretty young girls.

He's a dangerous man. So look out for him.

How exciting!

Are you here for any reason, Mr. Medlin?

Do you always need a reason for something you do?

You've got her there, Medlin.

This young one doesn't know the meaning of the word.

The total so far show a slight majority for Roosevelt.

We will give you the next batch just as soon as it comes in.

Now, ladies and gentlemen, if you will

please take your partners for the square dance.

They're gonna start the square dance.

Let's steal this one. Excuse me, Medlin.

Sure, go right ahead. I'll wander around.

Maybe I can fix you a dance or two.

Thanks. I don't dance.

Everybody get your partners for the square dance.

Get your partners.

All right, get around into different positions.

One more couple right over there.

Another couple right down at the other end of the hall.

All right. Salute your partners all the way.

All the way, join hands, circle left.

First and opposite forward, then go see, go to the right.

First and opposite couple forward, and swing to the right.

First and opposite couple forward, and swing to the left.

To the right.

First and opposite couple forward

and go see, go to the right.

Second and first couple forward

and go see, go to the left.

Second and opposite couple forward and swing to the right.

Excuse me, miss, uh, whatever your name is.

I lied to you just now. I love to dance.

And I also had a very important reason for coming here.

And I thought it was just to see the sights.

Right. The most beautiful sight I ever saw in my life.

Look, the one with the boy who looks like

he ate all the spinach.

You sure dance elegantly, Louise.

- Thank you, Tom. - Maybe this isn't the place.

- Louise, this man... - Listen, old man.

You're a decent, honest respectable citizen

with a heart of gold, well, I'm a lost soul

who'll soon be vanishing into the wilderness.

Give me one bright memory to carry off.

I knew you would.

- Who's that man? - Frank Medlin.

Your sister's very beautiful.

- Yes, I know. - But you're more beautiful.

Mind you, I've seen plenty of

beautiful women all over the world.

The most beautiful ones are the Turkish women.

They've got their faces covered, so you can use your imagination.

I'm afraid I don't understand.

Why, you don't right now because you're a little bewildered.

Let's go somewhere where I can explain what I mean.

I don't think I should.

Oh, please. I'm quite harmless, really.

Yes, I think you are.

Oh, you shouldn't have.

And champagne coda la rouge for mademoiselle.

I offer a toast to Silver Bow

for harboring unsuspected beauty.

Oh, what on Earth's that?

- Fruit punch. - Fruit punch? Awful stuff!

You'd like it better if it were actually champagne?

I'd like it better if it were straight bourbon.

However, since we can't have either, let's sit down

and go back to Turkish women and imagination.

Do you know I imagined a face like yours behind every veil?

- Did you? - Mm-hmm.

Would you like to hear the story of my life?

- No. - No?

But it's exciting, hasn't got any point to it,

but it might serve as a warning for you.

- Why should you warn me? - That's a good question.

Perhaps I'm developing a sense of responsibility.

Perhaps you're too lazy for that.

You should try watching the bees sometime.

The bees? Oh, no, horrible little brutes.

Crawling all over each other doing the same thing

over and over again. Not me.

I like change, variety, new places, new things.

- What are you looking for? - I don't know.

Something I haven't seen yet.

- Something in particular? - No, no, anything.

There's always something new just over the horizon.

And probably when I find it, I'll take a running jump

at the sun and end up with a broken neck.

May I give you a paradox, Ms. Elliott?

You have a very exciting serenity.

I have Silver Bow.

You have places to go and things to see.

Ladies and gentlemen, we have just received more returns.

With half of the country still to be heard from

it can safely be said that Theodore Roosevelt

will be President of United States

for the next four years!

Grace, there she comes now.

- Grace, come here. - I'm coming, I'm coming.

Oh. She'll catch it from father, you wait and see.

Look, he's holding her arm.

Roosevelt's doing it in government,

this fellow Theodore Dreiser's doing it

in literature. America's growing up.

My book's gonna tell about the growing pains.

It sounds terribly exciting. How far have you gotten?

Oh, well, I haven't started yet.

You know, you just can't plunge into a thing like that.

You gotta think about it a long time.

Oh, I see. Well, here we are.

It's been very interesting talking with you, mister...

Why, I don't even know your name.

Medlin. Frank Medlin.

What's yours besides Elliott?

Louise. Louise Elliott.

- Goodnight, Mr. Medlin. - Goodnight, Ms. Elliott.

You know, you've done a very terrible thing to me.

I was quite happy with that unwritten novel of mine.

It gave me a sense of importance thinking about it

when I had nothing better to do.

Didn't you ever intend to write it?

Oh, sure, when I had the time and the money.

Now, perhaps, if I had someone to talk with about it.

Oh, I'd love to talk with you, if it will help.

It would.

Oh, but I've got to go back to San Francisco tomorrow.

I'll send 'em a wire and tell 'em I'll be a week late.

- Tomorrow night? - Yes.

Would you come to dinner? I'd like you to meet my family.

Oh, no, thanks very much. I...

- I'm not good at family dinners. - Please.

Spend every evening with me this week

and I'll come to dinner the night I leave.

- Will you start your book? - Absolutely.

- Then it's agreed. - Great.

- Goodnight. - Goodnight.

- Goodnight. - Goodnight, Louise.

Oh, it's wonderful!

- Helen! Helen, come to bed! - Don't be silly.

- Louise, is that you? - Yes, mother.

Your father and I wanna talk to you.

Yes, mother.

Louise, do you realize what time it is?

And what do you mean by deserting Tom?

Don't worry, dear. I'll tell you all about it in the morning.

Goodnight, dears.

- Why! - She's quite right.

It'll keep till morning. Goodnight, darling.

Well, you ought to be ashamed of yourself.

Here your daughter stays out practically all night

with a man she's never seen before

and you say, "It'll keep until morning."

Rose, are you trying to insinuate

that Louise done something indecent?

Goodness, no!

Then go to sleep.

Well, you needn't be sarcastic about it, Ned.

Not at this time of the night.

- Louise, Louise. - Helen, why aren't you asleep?

- Do you realize what time it is? - Louise, please.

Tell me what happened. Was it very exciting?

- Do you love him very much? - Helen, what ideas you have!

Did he kiss you? Oh, but of course, he did.

Of course, he didn't. I only met him tonight.

What difference does that make? Grace, Grace, wake up.

Louise is in love! This is no time to sleep.

Helen, you oughta be ashamed of yourself. You're the limit.

I can see it in her eyes. Can't you?

I wish I could fall in love.

What does it feel like? Is it all in the heart?

Don't be such a chatterbox. Do you realize how late it is?

- Don't care. Louise is in love. - Helen, don't be silly.

You do act very strange, Louise.

It's love, I tell you.

Perhaps it is. I don't know.

I know he hasn't the kind of ambition

we're brought up to expect in a man.

I know he's irresponsible and restless.

Oh, but he makes me feel alive,

as if I were born for something else beside marrying Tom Knivel

and, and gradually dying in Silver Bow.

- I know just how you feel. - I don't.

I don't understand it at all.

I can't think of anything nicer

than, than living in Silver Bow.

I'll scratch that man's eyes out

if he makes you do anything foolish.

Why, Grace.

Oh, you darling.

Quiet, children! You're keeping your father awake.

Oh, dear. Goodnight.

Remember, not a word.

- Not a word. - Don't worry.

There's enough salt. Now let's see about the turkey.

Oh, dear! In a few more minutes it'll be burnt to a crisp.

Louise, did you tell him...

- My watermelon rind. - Mother, please.

I should say not, that's my last jar.

- I'm saving it for Christmas. - But it's the best in the world.

He's never tasted anything so good.

- Well... Oh, well. - Please, dear.

But I must say, I've never seen you girls

make such a fuss over anyone before.

If he doesn't come soon, dinner will be spoilt.

Something must've delayed him.

I told him we always ate

at one o'clock sharp on Sunday.

I do hope nothing's happened to him.

You can't tell me she isn't in love.

- You're crazy. - Louise. Louise.

Where's this young man of yours?

Gee, Willigans. I'm hungry.

I was just telling Louise dinner can't wait much longer.

He'll be along any minute.

Unless, unless something's happened.

Do you suppose that I'd better--

- There he is. - Hm. About time, too.

- Hello, Louise. - Frank, you're late.

Yes, I know. I'm sorry. I just had to stop for a drink.

- Frank. - Oh, just the one.

Just to give me courage. I'm scared to death.

Well, for pity sakes, don't tell mother what kept you.

And if father offers you a drink, don't you dare accept it.

Oh, no, no. No, I'll try not to.

- I'm still scared. - Oh, silly, come along.

I understand you're from San Francisco, Mr. Medlin.

What? Oh, yes. I'm leaving tonight.

- On the 12:55. - What?

Mother asked if you are from San Francisco, Frank.

Oh, I see.

Girls, I guess you better get the turkey now.

Yes, mother.

I think prize fighting's very cruel, don't you, Mr. Medlin?

Oh, brutal, brutal.

I shouldn't think a man would want

to earn his living writing about it.

Oh, I shall...

You mustn't mind mother, Mr. Medlin.

She really doesn't mean half she says.

Oh, I see. Uh, well, of course.

I-I just earn a living at it

for the moment, that's all, you see?

I suppose there are any amount of theaters in San Francisco.

Oh, yes, any amount.

I've been taking dancing lessons

from Madam Elise Murphy.

Someday I hope to go to San Francisco to dance.

First it's New York and then it's San Francisco.

Really, Helen, you'd better make up your mind.

Well, I decided on San Francisco

because Louise will be living there and...

Helen!

What makes you think Louise is going to be living there?

Louise, is there something your father and I ought to know?

Oh, mother, I can't imagine why Helen said that.

Ned, will you please ask your daughter

to explain what she means?

Huh? Oh, uh, Helen, uh, you just...

I-I think Ms. Helen means that she'll come and stay

with Louise and me when we're married.

- Well, of all... - What?

Frank, you haven't proposed to me yet.

No. Will you marry me, Louise?

Our daughter is going to marry a fine upstanding young man.

A splendid match. Why, it's absolutely ridiculous.

Well, of course it's ridiculous, no man in his right senses

ought to be willing to give up his freedom for a woman.

- But I'm in love. - Young man, you can't--

Yes, you can. You can do anything you want.

I'll have you understand, young man

that our daughter is going to marry...

Grace, I don't like the way he talks.

Goodbye, Louise. It was all very beautiful and very helpless.

But I do love you, and I always will.

Frank, I can't have you running off like this.

But it's helpless, Louise. I've got no right to love you.

It's not fair.

But I love you, Frank.

You say that so simply, without emotion, without heroics

as though it were just a plain simple fact.

Louise, if you really love me

come with me to San Francisco tonight.

- Don't spoil it, Frank. - I'll have the minister.

The license, everything ready by the time the train goes out.

We'll be married. Will you?

- Yes. - Tell your family.

I'd rather not.

I'll need all the courage I have to marry you.

Louise! Louise!

Weren't you even gonna say goodbye?

I didn't wanna wake you. And it's hard enough to go as it is.

Oh, I think it's wonderful to elope.

Louise, you mustn't do anything you'll regret later.

It's a very serious step to get married

and live with a man thousands of miles away.

- I know, dear. - Why, Louise.

It may be years before we'll see you again.

You'll come out to see me, it's not so far.

- Me, too. - Of course, dear.

We've always been together.

It's gonna seem so strange without you.

We'll still be together.

You better go up to bed now. Frank's waiting. I must hurry.

Remember, be good to mother and dad.

We will.

Oh, dear, I hope you'll be happy.

Of course, she'll be happy, darling. Uh...

You'll write often enough. Promise?

- I promise. Goodbye. - Goodbye.

Goodbye. Now go on.

Don't forget. If you ever need me, I'll come running.

Yes.

Do you think your wife would want a extra blanket, sir?

Yes, I think she might. Put one there, will you?

- Right away, sir. - Wife?

- It sounds so strange. - I love the sound of it.

Do you?

♪ He's me pal he's me pal ♪

♪ There ain't nobody else I can see ♪

♪ I know he's dead tough but his love ain't no bluff ♪

♪ He'd share his last dollar with me ♪

♪ I'd rather have him with his 15 a week ♪

♪ Than be some old millionaire's gal ♪

♪ He's the best ever was ♪

♪ And I love him because ♪

♪ He's me pal he's me pal ♪♪

Dearie, I hate to bother you,

but I wonder if you could spare me a little butter.

I've been called to Oakland to see my sick mother.

I wanna leave my husband a tray of food, I discovered

I ain't got a speck of butter in the icebox.

Why, yes, that's perfectly all right.

- Come in, won't you? - Thanks, dearie.

My! You do keep your place neat and dainty.

You ought to see mine. It's a sight.

But I'm just tore between so many responsibilities

if it ain't my sick mother, it's my husband.

Well, that's too bad. I'll get you the butter.

I hope you'll excuse my breaking in on you like this.

Mrs. Medlin, I've been meaning to come over and introduce

myself ever since you moved in, but I'm always absolutely

ferrying back and forth the band

and, well, I haven't had the time.

It's quite all right, a sick mother

is a great responsibility.

Particularly my ma.

She runs a boarding house for theatricals.

Them gals just about drive her

loony with their goings on.

You know, I studied for the stage once

but I haven't got the strength really.

Mm! My, your food smells good.

I always say the way to a man's heart is through his stomach.

Oh, thanks.

I tell Oscar, he's my husband,

my cooking's wasted on him on account of

he ain't got no heart anyhow.

Drudge, it's what he is. A drudge.

Don't think of nothing but his work.

What does he do?

Oh, he's the bouncer over

at Colombo's Divin' Bell.

- A bouncer? - Oh, sure. You know.

When one of the sports gets French and giggle water

and starts hanging dead soldiers on the wall

my Oscar, he gives them the one, two, there!

- Oh, I see. - Well, I gotta be going.

I'll be running into Oscar. Thanks again.

Oscar wouldn't harm a fly, but somehow

even mentioning poor ma just rouses the beast in him.

Oh, uh, being your neighbor, I cannot but notice

your husband works nights a lot.

Oh, yes, he's a newspaperman.

He has to cover a story whenever it breaks.

Oh, ain't that exciting, a newspaperman

right across the hall.

Well, thanks for the butter.

And don't take any wooden nickels.

- Goodbye, dearie. - Goodbye.

- Good evening. - Good evening.

- Hiya, darling? - Hello.

- Dinner almost ready? - Almost.

Good. I couldn't wait to get home. I'm starving.

Anything exciting happen today?

Yes, I got a letter from Helen.

It's seems that Grace has been devoting herself

to curing Tom Knivel's broken heart.

And she's doing such a good job,

that the whole family is waiting

breathlessly for him to propose.

Well, at least she won't have to live on $25 a week.

Well, we are managing, aren't we?

Why, you are, I'm jealous

of anyone who has more than you have.

I have you. I only want you.

If that's all I get, it's enough.

You know, Louise, you're not from Silver Bow.

You're from the Earth, the deep rich Earth

that brings its own sweetness with it.

I manage it from my heart, not my head.

Your head would have said no, would it?

Then off with my head.

Oh, let's wait till after dinner.

Oh, dear!

Close the window, it's freezing.

The place still smells of that woman across the hall, darling.

She may be cheap and loud, but she's friendly.

Yes, a bit too friendly, I think.

I don't think you ought to let her get into the habit

of dropping in on you all the time.

It's nice to have someone drop in once in a while.

Do you realize she's the first person I've met

in the months I've been in San Francisco?

No, I hadn't thought of that.

Yes, we've got to go out more.

Hey, how about tonight?

You're working on your book tonight.

Oh, but I've been working on my book

every free night we've had this week.

You'll keep right on, nd I'll be more than repaid

for a little unimportant loneliness when people

point me out as the wife of Frank Medlin, the famous author.

You know, a man can't keep his nose

on the grindstone all the time.

You look just like a baby when you pout.

Pout? What do you mean pout? I wasn't pouting.

It's beautiful, isn't it?

Yes, it certainly is.

- Ah! - Oh!

- That's a blow-out. - Oh, that's too bad.

Well, I suppose we'll have to change it.

Grace, hand me that pump out of that basket there, will you?

Oh, yes, Tom.

Well, we didn't have much luck, did we?

- Such a nice day too. - Don't worry.

We'll have a lot of fun fixing it.

Yes, a lot of fun.

There. It was fun, wasn't it?

Yeah, sure it was.

Here, here. None of that.

Why, I like to help. Really, I do.

Well, this is man's work. You'll spoil your dress.

I don't mind.

- Let's do it together. - All right.

Grace, there's been something

I've been wanting to ask you for a long time.

Yes, Tom?

Will you marry me?

- Yes, Tom. - That's fine.

Good morning, Ms. Elliott.

Good morning. Is Ms. Stella in?

- She'll be back in a while. - Oh, I think I'll wait.

- Shall I tell Mr. Johnson? - Well, no, thank you.

I imagine he's busy. I'll just wait.

Yes, Ms. Elliott.

I don't see why you don't sell. Prices are high.

Now $11 million swings the deal.

If you gentlemen wait to a sell stock, of course,

that's your business, not mine, but you've got to make up

your minds fast because I'm leaving

for New York in about ten days

and then to Europe for a while.

- Goodbye. - Goodbye, Mr. Johnson.

I'll see you gentlemen in the office tomorrow.

Goodbye.

Well, Helen. This is a surprise.

- Did you come to see Stella? - Yes, but she isn't home.

What's the matter, girl? You look down in the mouth.

- What's up? - Oh, nothing.

Come on, spill it. You know I'll help if I can.

Grace is gonna marry Tom Knivel.

Well, that's a good match for Grace.

That isn't what's making you unhappy, is it?

Oh, no, I wouldn't marry Tom

if he were the last man in the world.

Well, what's upsetting you? Oh, come on.

Sit down and tell me all about it.

If I can be of any help, I'd be only too happy.

Now, what is it, Helen?

Well, when Grace is married, I'll be the only one left

and mother'll watch me even closer than she does now.

Why, she'll never let me go to New York or even San Francisco.

And I'm getting so tired of living over a drugstore.

You're so beautiful, Helen.

I don't believe I ever saw anyone as pretty as you.

Oh, Sam, you're so funny.

- So cute and funny. - Ha-ha.

Yes. I guess that's the way you feel about me.

Oh, Sam, I'm sorry. I-I wouldn't hurt you for the world.

I admit I'm old enough to be your father, but listen, girlie

I've been thinking about you for a long time.

Marry me, and you can have anything you want.

- But, Sam, I don't love you. - Oh, I know you don't.

But marry me and I'll play fair with you.

I'll even promise not to be a jailer

if that's what you're thinking of.

But, Sam, I-I couldn't marry you.

Why, Stella and everyone would think that

I was marrying you for your money.

I don't care what people think.

I've always made my own way

and I'm not gonna have anybody

dictating to me now.

And you'll take me to New York?

New York? Any place in the world you wish.

All right.

- I'll marry you, Sam. - Oh, Helen.

- Father! - Oh. Stella.

Helen has just consented to become my wife.

She finally landed you.

You oughta be ashamed of yourself marrying a man

old enough to be your father and marrying him for his money.

- Stella, how dare you! - Gee!

No, Sam. No.

Sam...

Well, I can't blame Stella.

But I must make her realize

that I am not marrying Sam for his money.

Then why are you marring him? You don't love him.

I know that he'll always take care of me and I...

I'm afraid of being unhappy.

Unhappiness ain't so bad.

Kinda makes happiness all the keener.

Louise could tell you that.

But then you ain't Louise, and you ain't Grace neither.

I'm afraid you ain't got much heart, honey.

But, father, I don't ever wanna hurt anyone.

You won't deliberately.

And when you do, you will always be forgiven.

Now, Rose, what do you say?

What's the use of my saying anything?

Helen listens to you, not me.

She might as well marry Sam.

He'll give her the excitement she wants.

Oh, mother, you're a peach. And so are you, daddy.

Ah, my beard's too tough. Run along.

- I got things to do. - Goodbye.

Now, Rose, that's the last one.

It'll seem rather quiet with all the girls away.

Well, I've got to get upstairs.

Anyway, I think Sam will make a better husband

than that reporter made Louise.

Huh? Oh, yeah.

Hi.

Frank.

What happened?

- What? - Frank, you're...

Frank, you're drunk.

Drunk? I certainly am.

Disgraceful, isn't it?

Tsk, tsk, tsk. Absolutely disgraceful.

You know what happened to me? A very funny thing.

I was asleep in a nice comfortable gutter.

I mean, there were no rents to pay,

no novels to write, no nothing.

But all of sudden I remembered

that I was a man of responsibilities.

A man of responsibilities. That's me.

Well, what's the matter?

Oh, yes, of course. Wet feet.

- Mustn't get the floor wet. - Let me do it.

Mustn't mess up the nice, clean house.

Fine husband. Hah!

You know, I'm the kind of husband

that makes everybody feel sorry for his wife.

Oh, I know. I know.

You know, sometimes a man goes from wanting too much

to wanting nothing.

You ought to do it gradually or it gets all mixed up.

Don't touch me! I don't want any help.

I don't want any help from anyone.

One, two, three -

- Well, if it ain't Mr. Medlin. - Hiya, Frank.

- Where'd you get that pippin? - Who's the lady friend, pal?

Friends of yours, dear?

- It's exciting, isn't it? - Exciting?

I'll bet you a quarter you're sorry you came.

- It's a bet. - So I say to him...

- You can't do that to me, baby. - Excuse me.

Just because you drove a automobile

to tell money don't mean...

Why, Frank Medlin! How are you, dearie?

Why, it's just been ages since...

Imagine a sportswriter putting on airs with me just because h--

Button your lip, Annie. You're drooling.

So anyhow, I says to him...

Tim, I don't think you know my wife, do you? Darling.

This is Tim Hazelton, one of the best sportswriters

in the country and an old pal of mine.

Frank's told me so much about you.

How are you?

Ladies and gentlemen, the main bout tonight

will be between

the Terror of the Tenderloins, Kid Rose!

And that bad boy of the South the Memphis Kid!

Hey, you big ox, wait till the Kid

hangs one on that beak of yours.

Go to your corner, when you hear the bell you

come out fighting. May the best man win. Go on.

- Will you have a swig, dearie? - No, thank you.

You shouldn't be here, Mrs. Medlin.

Oh, it's very interesting.

I couldn't do a thing with her, Tim.

One, two, three

four, five, six...

That Kid Rose has certainly got a nice left.

The Memphis Kid can take it, he'll be in there

when Ross has worn himself out throwing punches.

No, he looks too green to me.

- Have a drink. - Thanks.

Oh, sorry, darling. I forgot.

I came home boiled about a month ago

and I've been laying off that stuff since then.

A prize fight's hard to figure out, Mrs. Medlin.

A boy can be in there taking an awful beating

but if he stays in there and keeps trying

he'll have the crowd with him whether he wins or not.

- My boy will win. - Yes.

- If you keep your eye on him. - I'm doing that.

Of course, you two wouldn't be talking about me, would you?

Well, I love you, darling, even if you don't

trust me out of your sight.

Blood, he's drew blood!

Hey, you big mushroom, can't you hit back?

Go right in! Right!

Come on! Come on!

One, two, three...

He really caught him that time. Oh, darling, what's the matter?

Oh, it's nothing. Don't mind me.

You're as white as a sheep. You'd better let me--

No, I'm all right. I... I...

I guess the little lady has a weak stomach.

- She can't stand it. - Oh, keep quiet.

I told you to button your lip.

- Ah. - Sit down.

- I'm sorry, dear. - Oh, darling.

You haven't got anything to be sorry about.

You sit down there and I'll get you something to drink.

You're so sweet, Frank.

Please go back in there and take care of your job.

I was afraid you'd get sick.

Here, drink this and I'll take you home.

Hm. No. Go back in there. I'll get home alone.

- Oh, no, darling. I can't-- - Please, Frank.

I want you to go in there and write the best fight story

you've ever written in your life.

Something people will talk about.

We can't take any chances now.

Chances? What's all the emergency about?

I'm going to have a baby.

What?

I wanted to tell you a month ago

that night you came home drunk.

But I decided to wait for a better time.

You're going to have a...

- Louise, darling. - Don't "darling" me.

Be a good reporter, write a good novel.

But it's incredible!

- It's a miracle! - You take care of your job.

I'll take care of your miracle. Go ahead.

What? Me go back in there with all those palookas?

Me? I'm gonna be a father! Holy smoke!

I don't feel very well, and I want to go home.

But I won't go home until you go back in there.

All right, darling. I'll go immediately. I'll go abs...

- But I'll-- Oh, all right. - Don't you dare.

Tim. Tim.

- I'm gonna have a baby. - Come on!

- Murder him! Finish him up! - Tim, listen.

- Murder him! - Listen, I'm gonna have a baby.

Well, can't you wait till the fight's over?

Come on, get him! Now the uppercut. Uppercut!

Perhaps too much strain, both physical and mental.

Too many emotional upsets. There are many contributing factors.

- But is she gonna be all right? - Certainly.

- And the baby? - I am afraid, Mr. Medlin.

- There isn't a chance. - You mean she's gonna lose it?

But she mustn't lose that baby.

Isn't there something you can do?

I'm sorry.

Doctor...

Who won the fight, dear?

- Darling. - Who won the fight?

Memphis Kid.

- I shouldn't have taken-- - I owe you a quarter.

- What for? - Remember?

I bet you a quarter I wouldn't be sorry I went to the fight.

Darling.

No one's to blame, dear.

People can't love each other as much as we do...

without paying for it somehow.

Darling, you're, you're crying.

Silly, isn't it?

There's nothing to cry about.

We have too much as it is...

to cry about something that might have been.

Tom. Oh.

What are you crying for?

I was thinking of poor Louise.

Thank you, Louise.

- Some more coffee, Frank? - No, thanks, dear.

- Well, are you through? - Yes.

- Pretty bad, eh? - Well, I'm no literary critic.

Ha. You don't have to be.

All you've gotta be able to do is to smell.

It starts out all right, but it gets kind of bogged down.

Maybe it will pick up in the next chapter.

Maybe there won't be any next chapter.

Now, I wouldn't give up, Frank. You can write.

- The first part shows that. - Well, you can write, too.

How is it you never wrote a novel?

Maybe because I never had a good reason.

Oh, so that's all you need, is it? A good reason.

That's very funny.

Look at him, all alone in the world.

Nothing to worry about. No responsibilities.

No wife. No children.

Why, man, you ought to be ashamed of yourself.

It's men like you who make the rest of us

carry the burden of the American home.

No reason to write a novel.

You don't know when you're lucky.

Goodnight, Tim.

Goodnight, Louise.

Haven't you any sense at all?

Oh, I don't know what's the matter with me.

All I know is that Louise's sisters

have got everything in the world.

And Louise who deserves it more than

either of them has got nothing.

Why, it's Christmas tomorrow

and I can't even buy her anything.

I don't think that worries her any.

Well, it worries me. I feel like a no-good tramp.

All I've got is bills. Doctor's bills, hospital bills.

Bills all over the place. I even owe you money.

I want to give her the world. Don't you understand?

All I'm doing is making her unhappy.

You're doing a pretty good job of that.

It's better for you if you were doing as good a job of writing.

Well, Merry Christmas.

Yes. Merry Christmas.

Your stuff has been so dead lately

we've been burying it as fast it came in.

- When it came in. - Well, what do you expect?

The great American novel on some stinking preliminary?

Now listen, if you're too good for--

Oh, yes. All right, all right, I know what I can do.

But I'm a married man with responsibilities

and all I'm asking you for is enough money

to live like a human being.

You can't come around here

complaining about hard times

when you smell like a saloon most of the time.

You're a fine one to preach.

Why, you've had your nose in a whisky bottle

so long it looks like an old cork.

I've had enough out of you, Medlin.

- You're fired. - Fired?

That's fine. I'll get myself a decent job now.

Merry Christmas.

Why, Frank, what are you doing home so early?

Well, I can't...

- Where'd you get that? - I bought it.

- What with? - Pennies and nickels.

I've been saving for months.

I wanted to surprise you

when you came home from work.

Oh, sweet.

Is there anything wrong?

Yes, the boss gave me

an unexpected Christmas present today.

- Yes? - He fired me.

- Why? - Because I asked for a raise.

There was something else. You fought.

Well, where does he get off telling me I drink too much?

He kills a bottle of Scotch in the office every day.

I see.

Darling, I'm sorry. I acted like a fool.

I lost my temper. I know. But don't worry, I'll get a job.

There's plenty of jobs for good sportswriters.

Of course you will. In the mean time, I...

Well, Flora Gibbon was in for a while this morning.

Flora Gibbon was here again?

She told me where I could get a job.

A job? What kind of a job?

- In a department store. - In a department store?

I'm sorry, Louise. You'll have to forget it.

I'm sorry, I can't forget it. If I can help, I'm going to.

If we can't be partners in everything

what sense is there to marriage, Frank?

I'm not gonna have my wife slaving

in a department store coming home completely exha--

It's much more exhausting worrying about

unpaid bills, money for food and rent.

I'd rather work than worry.

I suppose you're throwing it up at me that I don't make

enough money to support my wife properly. Is that it?

It isn't that, Frank. If it hadn't been for the baby--

- I suppose that's my fault, too! - Frank.

Go out to work if you want to, but I can tell you one thing.

I won't hang around here doing nothing. Now make up your mind.

- Are you gonna take that job? - Frank, please.

Are you going to take that job or not?

I've gotta, I can't live anymore

with a house full of bills.

- Where are you going? - Out to get drunk.

Frank!

Frank, please come back. Frank.

Don't come back if you do.

Don't come back. Don't you dare come back!

Merry Christmas.

Frank.

♪ The first Noel the angel did say ♪

♪ Was to certain poor shepherds in ♪♪

- Beautiful. - Yes. Isn't it?

I mean you.

Some champagne, Norman?

- Thank you. - Thank you.

Sam. Sam, you're not drunk, are you?

Of course I am. That's the only way I can stand stiff shirts.

I'm afraid you'll have to stand it just

a little while longer, dear. We promised Stella's friends--

Oh, Stella's friends give me a pain.

- And stiff shirts all-- - Nevertheless--

All right. All right. All right, I'll go.

Oh. Legs feel funny.

I feel funny all over.

Come along, dear. I'll help you up.

- Up we go. - No, I didn't want to go anyway.

- But you promised Stella. - May I help?

No, no. Don't want any help.

Wanna stay home and get drunk. Merry Christmas.

I'm sorry, Norman.

- Stella. Excuse, me. - Sure.

Stella, your father isn't feeling very well.

Why don't all of you go on to the Denhams

and-and we'll follow as soon as he's feeling better?

I suppose we might as well.

Oh, we're all going to the Denhams.

Father will join us later.

- Are you coming? - No, I'll wait here for him.

- Very well. - See you there.

Don't be long, Helen.

Are you coming with us, Norman?

Why, yes. Of course. I'll see you later.

Yes. We'll follow in a little while.

Sam, do you feel better?

Is there anything I can get you?

Norman. Norman, what are you doing here?

I let the others go ahead. They'll never miss me.

Oh, you shouldn't have done that.

But I wanted to tell you the end of the story.

I told you I knew how it ended.

Helen, there's only one way it can end.

We are young, you and I, and alive.

We can't bury ourselves in gratitude.

We have too much living to do.

Helen, I love you.

- Cheap. - Stella.

- Father, how can you-- - Stella, please.

Please don't tell him tonight. I know it's wrong.

- But please. - Father, wake up.

Stella, please don't spoil his Christmas.

- You gotta wake up. - I'll tell him myself.

- After Christmas. I swear it. - Get away from me.

- Father, listen. - All right. All right.

I'll go. Merry Christmas.

Sure. I'll go.

I'm sorry I'm so late. So...

Sam. He shouldn't have had so much to drink.

Sam.

Get a doctor. Get a doctor!

Doc Moore told Sam six months ago if he didn't stop

eating and drinking like a hog, he wouldn't last.

It just doesn't seem fair. He had everything to live for.

Money, position, Helen.

I think they were really very happy together.

Rose.

Maybe when a man has everything he wants, it's time to die.

If he waits too long, it's liable to turn sour on him.

- We'll never have that trouble. - Oh, thank goodness.

I only wish that Louise had an easier time of it.

Oh, I'm not worried about her.

She'll get straightened out. She's got brains, that girl.

Frank. Frank darling, wake up.

- What? - I'm leaving now.

The coffee's on the stove and the toast in the oven.

- Just turn on the gas. - Turn on the gas.

Wonderful, isn't it?

Wife goes out to work

and husband has nothing to do

except turn on the gas.

Frank, please.

Oh, I know it's stupid of me, I suppose.

But somehow I can't get used to this.

Please, darling, let's not start again.

You coming in to dinner tonight?

I don't know. We haven't finished spring inventory.

That means you'll be dining with Benson, I suppose.

Mr. Benson is very considerate when I work late, Frank.

Mm, I would be, too, if I had a secretary as beautiful as you.

I happen to be your wife, darling.

Yes, I know. I'm sorry.

I wonder if you have any idea of how much I love you.

I love your face, the way you walk, everything about you.

- And it's killing me. - Frank.

Frank, please, you have to pull yourself together.

Do you realize what's happened to you in the past few months?

Look at yourself, darling. You can't let yourself go like that.

It's bound to show in your work.

My work? It's rotten!

It smells to high heaven. It's so rotten!

- Nobody has to tell me. I know. - Frank.

Frank, what's going to become of us?

I don't know, I suppose you'll get tired of babying me

and that'll be the end.

Well, I don't want it to end ever.

Louise, there's a kind of quiet assurance

about you that, that bewilders me.

I've never been certain of anything in my life

except that the next job might be more exciting

than the one I had.

- You warned me, dear. - Yes.

I warned you. I thought I was being very clever.

If the worst comes, the worst, I say to myself

at least she can't say I never warned her.

Then forget you warned me.

Pretend you made a bargain you've got to live up to.

My God!

I can't. I wish I could, but I can't.

Frank.

Frank. I'm going to give up my job.

From now on I'm going to depend on you.

If you starve, I starve. If you die, I die.

It's a big sacrifice to make for a man who's slipping.

I'm not making any sacrifices. I'm being completely selfish.

I love you and I want to keep you.

But I want you to be the strong one, not I.

You can be, darling. I know you can. It's in you.

It has to be if you love me.

Frank, look at me.

There isn't anymore strength left in me to fight.

From now on it's your fight if you love me.

If I love you?

If I love you.

I've got to go now.

Goodbye, darling.

I can't use you, Medlin.

♪ I care not for the stars ♪

♪ That shine ♪

♪ I dare not hope ♪

♪ To e'er be thine ♪

Hello, Frank. I've been looking for you.

The usual, Mr. Hazelton?

I heard you were making the rounds.

- News travels fast, doesn't it? - Any luck?

♪ Love me ♪♪

What are you waiting for, Frank, a miracle?

You know you're washed up in San Francisco, don't you?

Do you know why?

Pay for the drinks, will you, Tim? So long.

Now wait a minute.

What's next, Frank?

I don't know. I got some pretty serious thinking to do.

I want to find out what's made me a walking corpse?

Why marriage made my wife strong and me weak.

I can't even take a drink without getting maudlin.

That's the trouble with you.

As much as you want love, you want freedom more.

It's a pretty tragic love story, don't you think?

So long, Tim.

On the last trip we made, we never got that far.

- Did you, skipper? - Sure, lad. Seen 'em all.

Been up and down the coast of Africa from Tangier to Somalia.

I can name you every port from Rangoon round to Singapore.

Clear over the Celebes and proper to the Solomon Islands.

Oh, but you ain't seen nothing until

you've followed the Mediterranean.

From Tetouan along the North African coast

making port at Tripoli, Benghazi,

Alexandria, Port Said.

And then through the Suez Canal

- down the Red Sea to Djibouti. - Djibouti?

Hot stinking holes, every one of them.

Give me the North Atlantic every time. I like places--

Say, do you men know of any boat leaving for the China Seas?

Yeah, the prowler sails tonight from Pier 10.

- Pier 10. - Heading for Singapore first.

She's a rusty tub, mate.

And her skipper's a man-killer.

- Thanks. - If I was you, I...

- Frank. - Hello, darling.

You better answer that. It might be important.

Mr. Benson's office. Yes.

Oh, that won't be necessary.

Just mark it down ten percent. All right.

Does your boss always let you make

important decisions like that?

Sometimes. What a wonderful

surprise to have you here.

I wished many times

you'd come and see my office.

It never seemed quite opportune before.

- It's a nice office. - Isn't it?

- You seem very happy in it. - Oh, I love it.

- Oh, but I love you more. Hm. - Do you?

It's not gonna be easy for you to leave it.

I don't mind.

Mr. Benson's office.

Good afternoon, Mr. Clark.

Oh, no. I am afraid not.

Mr. Benson's going out of town for the weekend.

Oh, you're very welcome. Goodbye.

I don't mind, because it's going to save us.

Save us, is it?

Well, I just dropped in for a moment.

I had a funny feeling I couldn't get through

the day unless I saw you.

- You made me very happy. - Have I?

Well, so long.

Aren't you going to kiss me?

Oh, M-Mr. Benson, this is Mr. Medlin, my husband.

Yes. I gathered as much.

- How do you do, Mr. Medlin? - Hello, Benson.

Mrs. Medlin told me she was resigning

- at the end of the month. - Has she?

Gonna be a great loss to me.

We're a selfish lot, aren't we, Benson?

We always want to keep what we have

regardless of what others.

Mr. Benson's office.

Yes? No.

- She's efficient too, isn't she? - Yes.

- Well, if you'll excuse me, I-- - Just a minute.

Are you working late tonight, darling?

Why, yes. Unless--

Well, we haven't quite finished, but if it's anything important.

Oh, no, it's nothing important, except

I have something to do myself, so...

You'll never guess what I have to do.

- I'm starting work tonight. - Frank.

You are starting work?

- How wonderful! - Yes, isn't it?

- It's a nice job, too. - On what paper?

You'll learn all about it when you get home tonight.

Look, Benson, you've been taking my wife out to dinner.

- Haven't you? - Why, yes, I, uh--

Oh, it's all right. It's quite all right. Except...

I wish you'd do something for me, would you?

Take her to dinner tonight, give her an especially fancy dinner.

Be gay. Give her champagne, will you?

As though it were kind of a farewell dinner.

- Frank. - Well...

You'll be saying goodbye soon, won't you?

Goodbye, darling.

Will you be home early?

Yes, but don't wait up for me.

Don't forget, Benson. The champagne.

Thank you so much for dinner, Mr. Benson.

I'm sorry I was so dull.

You should have had some champagne.

I suppose so.

I just couldn't seem to without Frank.

- Goodnight. - Goodnight.

- Hello. You mind if I come in? - Oh, no, come in.

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

I'm as nervous as an ostrich getting

the tail feathers plucked.

I ain't ever had such a peculiar feeling before.

Actually, and it's a fact I wish Oscar was home.

Strange. I feel that way, too.

- I wonder what it is. - I don't know.

I felt just like this before I married Oscar.

Me and Oscar went to a picnic at the Presidio.

Oh, I was talking to the nicest young man.

Danny O'Shea was his name. He was a dealer at Kelly's.

Oscar was drinking beer.

Oh, here's a note for you, honey.

- A note? - Well...

All of a sudden Oscar grabs me by the arm and says

"Try two-timing me and you'll get tore apart, straw-head."

Right then I know I got the same feeling I got now.

Only, I thought it was love.

- No! Frank! - What's the matter, dearie?

- Frank! - Anything I can do for you?

How can I find out which ship's leaving tonight?

I don't know. If Oscar was home...

Operator. Beacon 1-7-7-5.

- Hurry, please. - You sure got a shock, honey.

Your husband ain't leaving you, is he?

Is Mr. Benson in? This is Mrs. Medlin.

Oh, of course, he couldn't be.

Please stay here, if my husband comes home, tell him

I've gone out to look for him and I'll be right back.

Could you, could you tell me

some ship sailing tonight around midnight?

- What's the name of the tub? - I don't know.

- Where's it going? - I don't know.

But it's very important. I've got to find it.

Well, then, lady, it's hard to say,

but try Thompson's place.

- They may know. - Thank you.

Anything I can do, honey?

Oh, please, please, do you know of a ship

that's sailing tonight around midnight?

- Where to? - I don't know.

Some ship is going some place. I have money.

I'll give you all I have if you can only find it for me.

Come to think of it, honey, there's a freighter that--

Take me there, I'll give you all the money

I've got if you can only get me there.

- How about a kiss on account? - No. Not now.

Perhaps later. I've got to get to that ship.

Come on, one little kiss won't hurt you.

- Wait a minute. What's the idea? - Officer, please.

- I'm looking or a ship. - What ship? Where's it going?

I don't know. But I've got to get to it before it sails.

- Where do you live? - On Taylor Street.

- Officer, please, I've got to-- - Come on.

- Where are you taking me to? - To Taylor Street.

But I don't wanna go there now.

I'm looking for my husband. He's on some ship.

Sure, I know. We'll look for him as soon as

I find out that you're telling me the truth.

Oh, but it will be too late then.

The boat will have sailed.

See, I've got to find him.

Please, I've got to find him.

Is that you, Louise?

What happened, dearie? Did you find him?

Well, what are you gonna do now?

Gee, honey. That's tough.

He'll come back.

He isn't very well, you know?

He isn't on a ship.

He's in some bar room, drunk.

He'll come back.

All I have to do is wait.

Ow!

Louise! Louise!

It's the end of the world!

Oh, it's the end of the world, I tell you!

I'm leaving, dearie. I'm going to my mother's in Oakland.

If you can't find any place to go, here's ma's card.

The address is right down here.

Mum can always find an extra room.

- Thank you. - Good luck.

- What's up? - Big earthquake.

And fire in San Francisco.

I hit it right on the head.

Big earthquake and fire in San Francisco.

Navy is sending out a call. All ships to go to San Francisco.

- For emergency relief duty. - Many killed?

Oh, the fire's still burning,

so they can't say. But it must be thousands.

Well, we pulled out of there just in time.

- Aren't you turning back? - Are you crazy?

- I've got to go back. - We're headed for Singapore.

Now get out of here. Keep me posted.

But I've gotta go back, my wife's there.

I'll be giving you a chance to swim if you don't pipe down.

But don't you understand? I've gotta get back!

- My wife's there. She needs me! - Take this man away--

- Take this man away-- - Quiet!

Don't let him get away!

- What's the matter with you? - Take it easy there.

Take it easy there. Take him down below.

But I've gotta get back there, you fool! Don't you understand?

I've gotta get back there! Take your hands off me.

Why, the man's crazy to think he can swim ashore.

...the New York office.

Can you get me a line to San Francisco?

No, operator. But I've got to get through. My sister's there.

Well, all right. Maybe she's dead.

I'll call some friends of mine in Los Angeles and have them

go out there right away. Hello, give me long-distance.

But, Norman, I should be there myself.

There's nothing you can do about it

until we get some information.

Hello? Hello.

I don't think you should go until we hear from Louise.

- I'm going. - But what can you do?

I'm a pharmacist, ain't I?

They'll need all the help they can get.

Oh, dear, I always knew Louise

would get into trouble with that man.

Search the next house. Rest of you follow me.

Anybody in here?

Anybody in here?

Clear out. We're gonna dynamite.

Clear out!

Anybody up here?

- Everybody out. - All out!

- Anybody in here? - Frank!

Hey, come on, lady. You gotta get going now, they're gonna

dynamite all the buildings in this street. Come on, lady.

I can't go now. I'm waiting for my husband.

- He'll be here any minute. - Keep going, keep going.

We're only half an hour ahead of the fire now.

Don't you see, if he comes home

and I'm not there, he'll wonder where I am.

- It's terribly important. - Hurry up.

- Take her along. Take her along. - I've been waiting for him.

Please.

What do you want?

I'm-I'm looking for Mrs. Gibbon.

- She told me to come here. - Ms. Gibbon?

Wait a minute.

- Well? - Are you Flora's mother?

Yes. What can I do for you?

Your daughter asked me to come here.

I'm Louise Medlin.

Oh, well, sure. Come in, Mrs. Medlin.

This is a surprise. Go right in.

You know, Flora has talked so much about you.

She'll certainly be glad to see you.

Flora! Flora!

That friend of yours in San Francisco is here.

Wasn't that earthquake in San Francisco terrible?

You know, I always say to Flora, "I prefer Oakland."

Oh, come.

You had better sit down.

- Well, you look all done in. - No, I-I'm all right.

Ma! Ma, where is she?

Oh, there you are.

Oh, Louise, dearie, I'm so happy to see you.

I never expected you'd get here.

Help me, Flora. Get away, you girls.

- Oh. - Come on now, help me.

All right. Ain't she pretty?

Yeah, but she's an awful sick child. Awful sick.

I think we'd better send for a doctor.

Frank.

Frank.

I've had men search every relief camp.

We've torn the town apart and still no sign of her.

What about the hospitals? And the morgues?

We searched every one. She must be somewhere.

Six days already. Six days!

If she's alive, she's off somewhere by herself

breaking her heart for that man.

I'm sure we'll find her, though, we're checking every

acquaintance, every possible contact she might have had.

Flora.

- How long have I been here? - Six days.

- Oh, really? - You was pretty sick, dearie.

We've ben having the doctor for you every day.

Once we thought you was gonna pass out.

- You mean, die? - Yeah, actually.

But you're all right now.

Dear, who is it? Uh...

- What do you want? - I am William Benson.

- Is Mrs. Medlin here? - Oh, yes.

- May I see her? - Oh. Yes, of course.

She's upstairs. I'll, uh, show you the way.

We had a party here last night.

Oh, my, Mrs. Medlin has been a sick girl.

What a dreadful thing that earthquake was.

You know, it's completely upset her.

But she's getting better every day.

I'm so glad she came to us. We've been able to help her.

Will you wait here for a moment?

- Flora. - Yes, mom?

They've come for her.

Wake up, honey. Wake up.

There are two men here to see you. One of them's Benson.

- Two men? - Yes.

Could it be...

Please ask them to come in. Please.

Come in, gentlemen.

- Hello, papa. - My poor darling.

He's gone, father.

You have had a time of it, haven't you?

The whole world was destroyed when Frank left me.

It can be rebuilt again, dear.

Do you think so?

It started already. A new world, dear.

You'll come home with me now

and we'll watch you build together.

No.

No, I can't go home. I must stay in San Francisco.

What was destroyed was my life.

What is rebuilt must also be my life.

- And Frank's. - You had better forget him.

Yes, I will try to forget the happiness we had together.

He'll come back someday.

I can wait.

♪ Happy birthday to you ♪

♪ Happy birthday to you ♪

♪ Happy birthday dear Tommy ♪

♪ Happy birthday to you ♪♪

Two years old. My, how time flies.

It seems only yesterday since poor Louise--

Wait a minute now. Louise is doing all right.

Of course she is, although I'd rather have

Tom in my home instead of a business career.

Where is Tom? Couldn't he manage

to get home in time for the party?

Oh, I don't know. I suppose he's been detained at the bank.

He's been very busy lately.

- There he is now. - Hello, everybody.

- Hello, dear. - Hello, Tom.

I'm sorry I'm late, I couldn't help it. How's the party?

Oh, the children are having a lovely time.

We've been waiting for you to cut the birthday cake.

Junior, come over and say hello to your father.

Well, hello there, young man.

You having a good time at the party? Want a piggyback?

No, dear. Please. It'll spoil your new suit.

Come on, Junior, now run back and play with your friends.

I do declare, Tom, I hadn't noticed until

just now you've got another new suit.

- Regular Beau Brummell lately. - Isn't he handsome?

Oh, I don't see why anybody should make any fuss

over a suit, I'm president of a bank now

and I've gotta dress up to my position.

Of course you do, dear. Dad, stop teasing Tom.

Sorry. Didn't know you were so touchy, Tom.

- I'm not touchy. - Mrs. Knivel.

- A Laura Watkins so see you. - Laura Watkins?

Yeah. She says she works for Isabelle Taylor.

Oh, yes. The milliner.

- Says it's important. - Send her away.

You can't be disturbed when you're having a party.

Oh, it's probably about a hat I bought yesterday. I'll see her.

You'll not see her. I forbid it.

You can't be leaving your son's birthday party

just because some silly milliner comes here to sell you a hat.

Why, Tom, how absurd.

That's no way to treat an Elliott, Tom.

You gotta handle 'em.

- You wanted to see me? - Yeah.

Won't you sit down?

What I got to tell you ain't very pleasant, Mrs. Knivel.

But I don't like to see a nice woman like you

get the dirty end of a deal, and it makes me sore

to see that Taylor woman get away with it.

I'm sure I don't know what you mean.

I'm coming to that, Isabelle Taylor

accused me of stealing. Imagine.

Her, with carrying on with all the men in town.

What Ms. Taylor does is no business of mine.

It is if one of the men is your husband.

- My husband? - Sure.

She is a shrewd one, that Isabelle Taylor.

She ain't taking no chances at having

her mortgage foreclosed so long as she can...

Mr. Benson's office.

Yes, we've received your order, Mr. Jackson.

We'll send it over as soon as it arrives. Thank you.

Jane, send a telegram

to Mrs. Thomas Knivel in Silver Bow.

Leaving for home tonight. Love.

Send one to my other sister, Mrs. Norman French

to her New York address. Dear Helen, drop everything.

Take first train home. Grace in trouble. Love, Louise.

Find out what time that this train leaves for Silver Bow.

- Will you? - Yes, Mrs. Medlin.

Excuse me, I don't like to disturb you,

but I must leave for Silver Bow immediately.

What's wrong, Louise? Somebody ill in the family?

Sorry, William. It'll have to remain a family secret.

I shan't be gone for more than a week.

I'll take you home while you get your things ready.

- Thank you. - When does the train leave?

I'm sure the new red dress is a model for the fashion show.

Oh, dear, I forgot to approve the copy for Tuesday's ads.

And also... What are you laughing at?

You. You think more about Benson's than I do.

- It's my job. - You made it your whole life.

- And shut out everything else. - I've tried to.

All aboard!

...guys can bet all your dough that I'll be the next champ.

There's the next champ sure as my name's Tim Hazelton.

- Tim! - Well, Louise.

- Where are you going? - To Silver Bow.

- To stay? - You know better than that.

- Any news of Frank? - No.

- You're still waiting? - All aboard!

All aboard!

And I'll come back as soon as I can.

Let me know when you arrive, and I'll meet you.

- All right. - Bye! Hurry back.

Bye!

Now everything is smashed by this cheap woman.

If he were my husband and I want

to keep him, I certainly wouldn't allow

a woman like that to take him from me.

It's more than that, Helen.

Marriage is supposed to be a sacred thing.

Tom took the same vows I did.

He can't break them and expect me to do nothing about it.

Men are such fools. There isn't one whom a clever woman can't

twist around her little finger if she wants to.

That's no excuse.

Of course it isn't, Grace.

But if you love a man, you've got to understand his weaknesses

as well as take pride in his strength.

And if you love him, you'll fight for him

until you know he belongs to another woman.

I know he doesn't belong to that woman.

Well, one could tell in a minute that woman was carrying around

all over town, just,

just taking advantage of him. That simpleton.

I think the first thing for us to do

is to see that that young lady leaves town.

But how? We can't do it alone.

Well, I...

Maybe we can think of some way of getting help.

They're delicious sandwiches.

Uh, your food is always perfect, Mrs. Knivel.

- Always perfect. - Thank you.

- You gentlemen are so gallant. - I can't speak for the others.

As for myself, I'm a Southerner by descent.

My father fought at Shiloh.

My grandfather fought at Gettysburg.

Well, well, anyone whose grandfather

fought at Gettysburg is a friend of mine.

Did Isabelle Taylor's grandfather fight at Gettysburg?

Isabelle Taylor?

- Who might she be? - Strange.

I thought she was quite popular with the men of Silver Bow.

- Preposterous. - I never saw the woman.

Perhaps it will help when I tell you.

We happen to know that many of the so-called

respectable citizens, are not quite as respectable

as they would have us believe.

And if we told all we know

half the men in this town would be afraid to face their wives.

And that we intend to expose them as the hypocrites they are,

unless Isabelle Taylor leaves town.

Ladies, may I ask why you are so dead set against her?

I'm sure you haven't got any personal reason.

- But I have. Yes. - You have?

My husband happens to be one of the men

involved with her.

- Tom Knivel? - Why, that's terrible, terrib...

Well, but after all, I-I mean, that's Tom's problem, isn't it?

We consider it a community problem.

By giving you...

I mean, by giving those men a chance to solve it,

we're also giving them a chance to become decent husbands again.

Of course, if you can't do anything about it

I imagine that the wives will be more than--

- Please, not the wives. - Entirely and...

Certainly not. Madam, I admire your spirit.

We shall not fail you.

Gentlemen, a woman of notorious reputation

has endangered the sanctity of Mrs. Knivel's home.

Isn't it true that by helping her to save her home

we are helping all good women?

Hm? Oh, oh, yes, undoubtedly.

Yeah. But how are we going to help her?

Gentlemen, that is our problem.

And rest assured, ladies, we will solve it.

Isabelle Taylor will be gone from Silver Bow

before election day.

Thank you, I knew we could depend upon you

as respectable citizens.

Frank. Frank!

Hello, Tim.

You look like somebody they forgot to bury.

They didn't forget. I just was not there when they came around.

Come on. Let's sit down somewhere.

Nice of you to meet me. I didn't expect that.

- Where have you been? - Oh, everywhere. Anywhere.

- Trying to catch up with myself. - Any luck?

- How about a drink? - Surely. Come on.

Sit down.

You don't look as if you could take a drink, Frank.

What difference does that make?

You're sick, aren't you?

Sick? Yes, I suppose I am.

I've got a lot of things the matter with me, but they

all boil down to one thing, that I am just rotten.

Mentally, spiritually and every other way, rotten.

I really ought to be dead.

I want to see Louise first.

- Kinda late, aren't you, Frank? - What do you mean?

I mean she's better off without you.

She's got a good job and Benson's ready to marry her

any time she'll say yes.

- Does-does she love him? - I don't know.

But I do know this, give her a little

more time and she'll be able to forget you.

I don't want her to forget me. I love her.

- What will you have, gentlemen? - Two bourbons.

Thanks. No, Tim. Not for me.

Wait a minute. Frank!

You can't go like that.

- Where are you going? - To Benson's, to see Louise.

Give me this bag. Come on.

Is, is Mrs. Medlin in?

No, sir. She's gone away until after the election.

Anything I can do for you?

- Where's she gone? - Hello, Mr. Medlin.

Hello, Benson.

- Come in. - Go ahead.

When did you get back?

Today. Where's my wife?

In Silver Bow.

- Thanks. - Wait a minute.

- You're not going to Silver Bow. - Better get out of my way, Tim.

You're gonna keep away from her if I have--

Gentlemen. Tim, you mustn't persuade him not to go.

He ought to go, for Louise's sake as well as his own.

If they belong together, let them be together.

If they don't, they may as well know it.

We'll know it soon enough.

Get me the Union Pacific Station. Hurry.

- Where are you going? - To Silver Bow.

Benson, do me a favor.

- Don't tell Louise he's back. - Hello?

Dad-burned, ornery, pig-headed...

- Ned, the night bell's ringing. - Let it ring.

Why do they always put so much starch in these collars?

- It might be someone important. - Yeah, might be, but it ain't.

I ought to know Doc Moore's ring after all these years.

Daddy, the night bell is ringing.

- I'm deaf. - Oh, dear.

That bell always rings at a time like this.

Why can't they leave me alone for once?

Now listen, you old windbag,

- Are you Mr. Elliott? - Yeah.

- I'm Tony Bittick. - Tony!

Mother, Tony Bittick. I'll open the door.

- Tony, darling! - Who is it, Ned?

I don't know. Somebody called Tony Bittick.

Well, what does she act so excited about?

Tony, darling, come right up this way.

What a divine surprise. Aren't you an angel to follow me?

I followed you halfway across the world, haven't I?

- It has become rather a habit. - Tony, these are my parents.

The sweetest in the world. This is Tony Bittick, my fiance.

Your fiance?

Aren't you still married to Norman French?

Oh, only till I get my divorce.

I forgot to tell you. We meant to surprise you.

It sounds too complicated for me.

Tony darling, sit down and make yourself comfortable

while I finish dressing. Mother, will you please

come and help me? I'll only be a moment.

Going somewhere, Mr. Elliott?

To the election ball.

If that bell ever stops ringing.

- Shall I answer it for you? - Pay no attention.

It's most likely that old windbag Doc Moore.

Say, young fella, know how to tie a tie?

- Yes, rather. - I've been trying for 40 years.

To learn to tie one of them things.

Drat that bell!

Never knew it to fail.

Every time I want to go somewhere

somebody wants something.

How do you do, Mr. Elliott? Is Louise in?

Louise, Mr. Benson's here.

I know, father. I heard him.

She's coming, Mr. Benson.

Well, it's certainly a night of surprises.

- William, how exciting. - Hello, Louise.

This is the pleasantest surprise.

You're the last person in

the world I expected to see.

Louise! Louise, look,

Tom and Grace are coming.

They've got a new car.

Tom bought it for her.

Drives beautifully, doesn't it?

- Huh? - I said it drives beautifully.

Yes. I'm glad you like it, dear.

It seems like a 100 years since I've danced in election ball.

- Time's turned a somersault. - You're crazy.

She's more beautiful than ever, Tim.

Take it easy, lad.

Bring her up here, will you, Tim?

- All right. - No, wait.

It's funny that...

I'm afraid all of a sudden.

I know.

Tim, maybe...

Maybe you better talk to her first, will you?

- Kind of prepare her. - All right.

William, what's the matter? Something wrong?

- No, no, no. Nothing. - But there is.

Louise. Sorry, Benson.

Tim, where did you come from?

Can I see you for a few minutes?

- Go ahead. I'll wait. - Excuse me, will you?

- Why up here, Tim? - I'll explain in just a moment.

Louise, sit down, Louise. Right here. Thank you.

I brought you here because I wanted

to talk to you about Frank.

- About Frank? - You first met here, didn't you?

Yes. It was the first time we ever talked together.

We talked about Turkish women and newspaper tramps

and, and the bees.

I asked him to watch the bees.

We were so young and silly.

But that's only four years ago.

Four centuries ago.

But you still love him, don't you?

I'll always love him.

And what would you do if he came back?

Why, I'd work for him, or I'd starve with him.

But whatever happiness we'd have would be mine, not his.

Don't you see, Tim?

If he hadn't tried to live my kind of life

he might have written that novel eventually.

He might have become someone.

Well, he might have found what he was really looking for.

If it hadn't been for me,

he'd have gone on looking for those new things

on the other side of the horizon.

Being happy even when he couldn't find them.

That's not true, Louise.

Frank!

Louise.

Louise, darling, I've got so many things

I want to tell you about.

Things I've been thinking for two years.

Time changes you, time and the things you learn.

I had to leave you to find out that I can't live without you.

- But, Frank, I-- - Let me finish, darling.

Now I've come back.

And I won't go away again unless you want me to.

What we've got left of life, work, happiness,

is ours if you still want it.

Darling.

Ladies and gentlemen, the latest returns that come in

give Taft a substantial lead.

Looks like our next president will be William Howard Taft!

Tom, I'll be right back.

Wait for me, Tony.

Louise, what's happened? You look so strange.

You look as if you're in love again.