Original subtitles

Miss Caroline!

Where have you been? You're late.

Your father came back an hour ago. He's been asking for you.

Very impatient. Quick, give me your things.

Your tea Papa.

But surely, after your journey you must be tired?

Tired? On the contrary, my journey has refreshed me.

Dr Bryerly said it was too soon for me to go, after my illness.

But it was not my going that Bryerly objected to, but my reason for going.

You know where I've been. - To see Uncle Silas.

Yes, to see your Uncle Silas.

I've told you very little about him Caroline.

You of course, have never seen him. When I visit him again, you may come with me.

Oh please, yes.

It has crossed my mind before.

But only now, can I be sure it is safe to take you.

Safe? - Yes.

You see .. when he was a young man .. your Uncle Silas was a fine character.

A more trifle worldly perhaps, far more so than I.

But a fine character.

Yes, I'm sure of that, and very handsome.

I've always worshipped that portrait in your study.

Worshipped? - Admired, I mean sir.

That portrait shows him at his best.

Before he gave himself up to a life of sin.

He was brought to his senses by a terrible ordeal.

A man was found dead in his house at Bartram. Silas was accused.

Accused .. of what? - Of murder.

The man was a gambler.

He spent almost his last moments gaming and drinking with your uncle.

There were motives. Suspicion fell upon Silas.

Only I defended him. - Because you knew he was innocent.

Innocent? Of course he was innocent.

That's why I stood by him. - Oh, I'm glad you did.

And I was justified, because of course the accusations were proved false.

The room in which this wretched man was found was locked and barred from inside.

It was obvious that he had taken his own life.

But that was the turning point.

Ever since then, your Uncle Silas has remained shut up in that big house.

Given up to remorse.

But was it remorse? That was what I had to find out.

So I've been to see him, frequently.

Studied him like a doctor his patient, tried to help encourage him to repent.

And now at last, I can say from my heart, it is done.

He is redeemed.

That must be Dr Bryerly. He'll be staying here tonight.

Dr Bryerly? .. I couldn't receive him like this.

Well run along my child and tidy yourself.

I will do my best to entertain him until dinner.

Good afternoon dear Branston. - Good afternoon to you Dr Bryerly.

Did your master return safely? - Yes, sir. None the worse.

I'm glad to hear it .. I was anxious.

Dr Bryerly. - Yes, my dear?

How did you find Papa?

In excellent spirits.

Just before you arrived he took me into his confidence. I mean about Uncle Silas.

Indeed.

Oh well Caroline, that is a matter I'd prefer not to discuss if you please.

It has refreshed him.

That was his own expression for it.

My dear, you know that I am deeply devoted to your father, and to you.

But then, cannot you believe what he says of Uncle Silas?

How is the sample progressing?

"When I can see my title clear to mansions in the .."

"Skies" is it not? - Yes.

Then it goes ..

"Now bid farewell to every fear, and wipe my blinking eyes".

I misspelled "mansions" and had to do it all over again. A whole week's work.

A spelling mistake? And your last Governess left how long ago? Six weeks?

My dear Caroline, I thought your education was completed.

You are mistaken my dear Bryerly. - I fear I must be ..

Since your raise the subject, it is by no means completed.

Oh your French is pretty well, and your pianoforte but otherwise ..

Send her to a finishing school abroad. The only way for a young lady of quality.

But you'll not let me be parted from you Papa.

Well, not just yet we hope.

Dinner is served. - Thank you Branston.

I've arranged for you to have a Finishing Governess here. What do say to that?

Thank you Papa .. I hope she will not expect too much of me.

But I would like to perfect myself.

Perfection is not of this world, my child. One can only seek to improve.

Come, come! That depends on the Governess, surely.

And where will find one in these parts?

Well, that may not be so difficult as you suppose.

No? Well, goodness knows, I'm no authority on the species.

Mary Quince, why are you not in your bed yet?

Mrs Rusk, have you heard about the finishing Governess?

When is she coming? - How should I know?

Pack of nonsense. What does Miss Caroline want from a finisher?

With all she knows, I can hardly keep up with her now.

I wasn't asking you. I was asking myself. You go to your bed.

Yes Mrs Rusk. - And say your prayers.

I always do Mrs Rusk. - Hmm. Well, that's too often.

Finishing Governess .. if she comes here she may be finishing before she reckons.

That, was the true Silas.

Why cannot you believe that he is as fine a man today?

I was hoping to avoid the subject.

But when you tell me you're taking this Governess on his recommendation ..

And why not, pray?

That proves your prejudice! If any should know him it is I.

Who has fought, watched, encouraged.

And now finally triumphed. - My dear Austyn.

But even when I tell you your heart is still hardened.

But still pliant enough to be ruled by my judgement.

Judgement!

You are very wealthy Austyn. - What of that?

Perhaps the wealthiest man in the county.

And Silas is a pauper but for you.

I tell you he has no hope of any inheritance from me, and knows it.

My fortune is for my child. - How can you tell what his aims may be?

Tell me this: today, did you tell him of your recent heart attack?

I did.

And your very slender hope of surviving another?

I did. That was the very reason for my visit.

And what did he say to that?

I wish you could have seen him at that moment.

His whole sympathy for me seemed to rise up in a wave of love and compassion.

Yes .. love and compassion for his own ultimate gain.

I tell you, if ever a soul was redeemed, it is the soul of Silas.

Time will show you have been deceived! - Deceived?

Deceived by your own righteous simplicity.

Forgive me .. I shall go to my room.

Do not be influenced by what you overheard.

He's an honourable man and a friend, but his eyes have not been opened like mine.

Nothing can disturb my faith in your Uncle Silas.

Nor mine.

If only God would help me to keep him encompassed with love and encouragement.

Love such as mine for him.

Such as yours for me.

You do love me, do you not? - You know I do.

Now my child, go to your room.

Yes Papa. Goodnight Papa.

" .. bid farewell to every fear, and wipe my weeping eyes."

Draw the curtains please Mary. It's so cold and miserable this evening.

You've done it perfect Miss Caroline.

If it wasn't for it being half-religious I'd say it was beautiful.

Call someone! Get Branston.

Branston, there is something outside the window. A woman I think.

A woman? - Yes. Send her away.

What do you want here? Eh?

Oh .. oh I beg your pardon. You want the front door then. Round to the right.

Who is it?

I must see the master. - But who is it?

She says she's the new Governess Miss.

The new Governess?

I'm glad your new Governess has arrived. - Yes, I saw her.

Papa, is she the kind of person you expected?

Certainly. Why not? - But she looks so strange.

Like an apparition.

She startled you no doubt in this light.

You will see her in the morning. She'll not appear as a strange apparition then.

And finally, we offer our humble prayers for the truly penitent.

May they walk henceforth strengthened in thy grace ..

In the path of righteousness. Amen.

Good morning Madame De La Rougierre. - Bonjour Monsieur.

Here is your charge.

Good morning Madame. - Good morning Madame.

Bonjour .. so young and pretty.

And what is your name my dear? - Caroline, Madame.

That's pretty too.

But I am not so young Madame. I am sixteen.

Sixteen? That's not young?

Even for that age she is young Madame. And innocent.

You will bear that in mind, I pray. - Mais oui. Of course Monsieur.

So innocent ..

Oh Monsieur.

[ French ]

Non possible pas Monsieur.

Yes. Branston, you may serve breakfast.

It is ready sir.

I am very sure Caroline will be a very good girl. I shall love her very much.

We shall first ask a blessing. - Oh, pardon.

Write "Je suis d�sob�issant".

[ French ]

En view .. - No, no, no mon enfant. "En Vous".

View. - "Vous" ..

View. - "Vous".

"La France". - France.

"Pour la produit l'exportation de la dentelle."

The lace.

Le Lin. - The flax.

Le parfum. - The scent.

Le Cognac. - Brandy.

"Brandy .. Cognac .. "

"Brandy .. Cognac .. Brandy .. Cognac."

"Et vous vuln�rabilit�." - Et vous vuln�rabilit�.

"Vous". - View.

"Vous". - View.

"Vous". - View.

At it again!

"Brandy .. Cognac .. Brandy."

Cognac .. Brandy .. Cognac.

I see little of you nowadays my child.

You look troubled.

Yes sir .. you know ..

Well I .. - Well, what is it?

Oh Papa, it's Madame De La Rougierre.

What do you mean?

Madame is a foreigner. She may appear a trifle eccentric at times.

She frightens me. - Frightens you?

She finds you backward no doubt, and scolds you. Is that the trouble?

No Papa. - Then what is?

I cannot explain sir .. - That is mere stubbornness.

The truth is you set against Madame from the beginning.

No sir, no I .. - "Caroline!"

Yes sir.

She is a woman of good character. You may trust my word for that.

It is not only my word. - "Caroline!"

Hurry, hurry my dear child. Your hat and coat. It's time to take our promenade.

Oh yes indeed .. it's a delightful tomb.

That is where my mother is buried. And I only go there with my father.

And when you have your father no longer? - Madame!

Regardez! Look! Quite a convenient bench.

Come, let's go there and sit.

[ French singing ]

[ French singing ]

Just now, I spoke to you of your father. You looked so shocked.

"Oh Madame". Haha .. foolish child.

Don't you know the state of your father's health?

I know my father is not strong. - Not strong?

And what is not strong? It is his heart. Is it not?

I know something when I see a man near his grave.

I do not care to think of such things. - But that is not sympathetic.

You should think of him and also of yourself.

You shall be very rich if your father leaves you all his money.

Is that what he will do?

Why do you ask that? And why should I know?

For your future.

It is very wrong of you not to think of that.

Does your father never tell you of his will? - No!

No, never. - Never?

But this is fantastic!

He must have made a will. He must have told you where to find it. Has he not?

No. You are hurting me. - You deserve it!

I try to be your friend, to help you, and you tell me lies .. lies, lies!

I'm not lying to you. Let me go!

And who might you be? - I do not know you sir.

Well that's easily remedied. Whenever I meet a girl like you ..

Would you be Miss Ruthyn of Knowl?

I am, yes. Kindly let me pass.

But to think of it. A beauty.

A real beauty. - Madame!

Try and shout as loud as you can "Madame!".

I bet she's as deaf as a tombstone, whoever she is.

You are insolent. Let me go!

Certainly. But there's a forfeit to pay for that.

I know it makes you angry with me but I can't help it.

Don't be afraid, I'm not angry. Only bitterly disappointed.

With me?

I believe her to be a good and honest woman .. I've every reason to.

But her conduct today? What I told you. This man ..

There may be a perfectly reasonable explanation. Tomorrow I question her.

It's long past your bed time. There is another matter I must discuss with you.

It concerns your inheritance. - Yes, Papa.

Now where is it? I've mislaid a book of reference.

I must have it. Maybe in my bedroom. Stay where you are. I shall not be long.

Branston.

Where did he put it?

Where did he put it?

Where did he put it?

Papa!

Where have you been? - Oh, don't be alarmed.

I saw a light outside. A thief perhaps. I went to catch him, but he made off.

But that woman, Madame, she's been in your room, at your cabinet.

Madame, at my cabinet? You are dreaming child.

She was searching among your papers. I watched her.

Nonsense. - But she must still be there.

There! .. You see.

Come here!

I heard what she said about me. It's a lie! She hates me Monsieur.

How can I get to your papers even if I wish?

The cabinet was locked. Are you in your right senses?

I tell you I watched her.

And why is she here hiding from us? I tell you, she's a fiend.

Oh believe me Papa. Believe me this time.

What would I wish with your private affairs?

She lies Monsieur, I swear to you.

I have a mind to let the law take its course.

That is what a common thief like you deserves.

But I will spare you the law on one condition.

Answer me this: where did you get this key?

It is one of my own. It fitted.

Why?

What prompted you to spy on my affairs?

Someone has written to you about me.

I heard it, I know it. A libel. One of my enemies. I wish to find out.

You're lying .. and not only to me.

To my brother Silas who tried to help you.

This doesn't have anything to do with him.

Heaven forbid that.

Tell me the truth.

So this is the end of me for you .. yes?

Thank heaven. Yes.

Yes.

No Miss Caroline, no. - What has happened?

You shouldn't go in dear. - Let me pass.

The will nominates Dr Bryerly and myself as executors and trustees ..

During Miss Ruthyn's minority or until her marriage.

I don't propose to read the will in full.

I will however list the various legacies which include bequests to Dr Bryerly ..

And a small legacy to myself as co-executor.

To Mrs Rusk, his faithful housekeeper, the sum of �200.

To Mr Branston, his butler of long service, an equal sum.

To the Reverend Dr Clay, incumbent of this parish.

Oh, what unexpected generosity! Might I ask how much?

Fifty pounds. - Eh? .. oh well.

And the residue .. - Hold on.

What about the existing allowance to Mr Silas?

Oh, I should have mentioned.

That is to continue during his lifetime. - At the present figure? No more?

At the existing figure.

Who is this gentleman, pray?

Sleigh's the name, of Archer and Sleigh, solicitors. Representing Mr Silas Ruthyn.

Well, what of the residue?

The residue is left to Miss Caroline Ruthyn.

To be held in trust until she comes of age.

Unless in the meantime she marries ..

And thereafter to be hers absolutely.

Is that all?

There is a codicil which is of great concern to Miss Ruthyn.

I thought there might be. Well, let's have it.

Codicil to my will.

I appoint my brother Silas Ruthyn to be sole guardian of my daughter Caroline.

And with full parental authority until she will reach the age of 21.

Or until, before reaching that age, she should be married.

Up to which time she shall reside under his care at Bartram.

And I make this appointment in the full knowledge and earnest prayer ..

That she will devote herself to the spiritual comfort of my brother Silas.

Does that meet with the young lady's approval?

Oh yes indeed .. I had half guessed that that was my father's wish.

May I ask ..

Is there is a provision in the will for disposal of the estate if Miss Ruthyn ..

Well sir?

Should not outlive .. uh ..

Fail to survive until she comes of age?

In that unlikely event and in the absence of any provision ..

The property would of course revert to the heir at law, the next of kin.

Namely, at this present time, her uncle: Silas Ruthyn.

Quite.

Exactly.

Goodbye Miss Ruthyn.

That cheap-jack lawyer had no right to make you agree to this.

But I do agree.

It was the thing nearest my father's heart.

I know he's watching me now.

Guiding me .. - But ..

Giving yourself up to this man ..

If only you knew ..

I expected my uncle would be here to meet me.

Welcome to Bartram!

But .. you are not ..

I'm the butler Miss .. name of Giles. At your service.

I'll show you to your room.

You'll be tired I warrant.

It's a tidy way from Knowl.

This is my maid Mary Quince.

A maid, huh? 22 and grand.

Look at me: threadbare broadcloth .. dear, dear.

Ahh!

No, no, never go there Miss. That's the closed wing. Kept locked up.

Always. Only one key. Master keeps that.

Never go there Miss. This way.

The closed wing? But why is it closed?

Don't know Miss. Never been to see.

Nor has nobody else. See that door? Master's room. He'll be there now.

But he can't hear. - When am I to see my uncle?

Don't know Miss.

He'll send for you when you're ready. Least-ways, when he is.

There be his bedroom, though he ain't too particular where he sleeps.

Here it be Miss .. your own little room.

All ready for you .. here we are.

[ door knocks ]

Come in.

Dear child.

This is a wonderful moment in my life.

And in mine.

Let me look at you .. why yes, you are a Ruthyn.

And a lovely specimen too. - Lovely? Oh Uncle Silas ..

Oh yes you are .. even more so than I expected.

It's true. The family were never deficient in good looks.

Your dear father for instance .. what a remarkably handsome fellow.

Yes .. - Sit down child.

And I would have known you anywhere. - Because I'm so like him?

Well, I mean from your portrait.

Oh, that portrait. Many years have passed since those days.

I dare say it flattered me.

No I .. I think you still look very much the same.

I can see that you and I are going to be very fond of each other.

I'm sure we are. - So am I.

If only I can provide for your comfort.

That's my chief anxiety.

Still, I've done what I can.

I've given you a room of your own across the hall.

Thank you. - This will warm you up.

You're a young lady now. No longer a child.

No more lessons. No more Governesses.

No, that's all passed, hasn't it. - Yes.

This house and estate are yours.

And entire freedom to come and go as you please.

Oh, I know I'm going to be happy here. - I hope so.

Great rambling, ramshackle house as it is.

Yes .. you keep one wing closed up entirely I hear.

I do, yes .. how came you to hear of that?

Your butler informed me. - Oh, did he?

You must overlook Giles .. I cannot afford a well-trained butler.

Now you must want some supper after your journey.

And then early to bed. - Oh, I'm in no hurry.

I like being here and talking to you. - And so you shall, every day.

Come and read to me here .. as you read to your dear father no doubt.

Not often .. oh yes, he used to like me reading the bible to him.

He would .. and so indeed would I.

Here it is.

Never a day passes, but I seek its message of hope.

Hope .. and here you are!

One of my hopes fulfilled.

Oh Giles .. is my niece's supper ready?

All ready for her, sir. All ready to eat.

Then go my child, with my blessing. - Goodnight Uncle Silas.

Take these for after your supper. - Thank you Uncle Silas.

Little boy.

Little boy, come here please.

And what is your name? - Tom .. what be yours?

Maybe he's the gamekeeper's child Miss.

That's right. Hawkes.

He be my father: Sepulchre Hawkes.

Sepulchre? Is that his name?

Naa .. they calls him that because he's dumb.

Oh how dreadful.

Oh! Look at that Miss! Come back.

She be my ferret.

I am your master's niece. I wish to go through the gate. Where is the key?

In the cottage. - Well, go and get it.

Do as Miss Caroline tells you. Do you want to be told on to your master?

No.

What are you doing? How dare you strike him like that.

I am Ruthyn's niece. My uncle will be informed of this.

Do come away Miss, do. He gives me the shudders.

No.

I'm going to help this poor boy.

No! Leave me alone! It's you that brought me the trouble.

Why, you ungrateful little scruff!

Come along Mary.

You're willing to surrender Caroline's guardianship?

Most certainly.

If I have her assurance she prefers to return to Knowl.

But without that assurance, you'd waste your time making any legal application.

Your time and her money .. would you not?

[ door knock ]

Come in.

Ah, how very convenient. - Dr Bryerly.

Caroline my dear, I have to go to London for several months.

I felt compelled to make this final effort.

Entirely in your interests my dear.

Dr Bryerly thinks you may be desirous of opposing your father's last wish.

That is the most unfair way to put it.

Unfair? Heaven forbid that anyone should accuse me of that.

But ask her for yourself. - You need not.

I've told you before ..

It was not only my father's last wish and his dearest wish.

But it is mine too.

In that case, I can do nothing.

And thus avoid distressing this dear child any further.

Will you take a glass of sherry, sir? - No, I thank you, I must be on my way.

A very strange brand of sherry, sir. - That is for myself.

I have need of it for my nerves, on particularly disagreeable occasions.

Good day to you, sir.

Goodbye my dear.

Giles, show him out of the house!

A very conscientious man.

So honest he cannot believe others to be as honest as himself.

I fear that he has upset you. - No. It was your gamekeeper Hawkes.

Hawkes? Sepulchre Hawkes?

But the poor fellow is dumb. - That does not excuse his being brutal.

He refused to unlock the gate and .. - Ah, that accounts for it.

That gate is kept locked by my orders.

But not to keep me in?

Of course not, my dear .. but do not wander far beyond the gate.

I like to feel that you're always near.

But he struck his little boy in the most cruel fashion.

Beasts of the field, my child. They are little better.

The boy is an ill-mannered urchin.

Has he no mother? - No .. she died at his birth.

The same sad, story as that of my own dear wife.

Poor Uncle Silas.

It must have been a great grief to you. - Unsupportable.

Was my aunt very beautiful? - As beautiful as good.

Why even now I .. I can scarce speak of her without emotion.

I would love to see a likeness of her. No doubt you have one?

Uh .. yes .. I keep it in my bedroom.

Poor soul .. I like to gaze upon her in my prayers.

I'll show it to you some other time. - Tonight?

Yes .. now run along my love .. I must compose myself.

I'll speak to Hawkes.

Who's that now? Marchioness of Stoke.

Tom, come and show us the way through the woods.

Come along.

There, we're good friends now aren't we?

Oh look Miss, there's a fine sight.

Caroline .. Caroline Ruthyn.

Sir?

You never called me that before.

I'm Richard .. Richard Ilbury.

Richard! Yes, you used to visit Knowl with my cousin Monica.

Yes, and now she's back at Elverston. We heard you lived here, so over I came.

What a lovely surprise. - Lovely .. yes indeed.

But no surprise .. you haven't changed all that amount.

And how is cousin Monica? - Oh never mind about her.

That is, she's coming over to see you soon.

Tell me, are you happy here? - As happy as I can be.

You always told them you were expecting a legacy from your brother.

I had to say a thing to fob them off.

A bad policy to put them off with lies.

Sharks of their sort.

One is not particular about the food one feeds the sharks.

Sharks are very tricky fish to tackle.

I tell you Mr Silas, it's not only the money.

They'll be paid in due course.

They've heard it before but they're hungry. Ravenous.

They can tell.

One of them showed his teeth yesterday, and very nasty they looked too.

Who?

Manderville. - Ah ..

An associate of my blackest days.

He tells me there are still some facts to come to light about that murder.

That what?

I mean that very regrettable fatality here.

The scurrilous, slanderous rogue, to question the findings of the law!

I defy him!

Give him a couple of hundred and tell him to keep his mouth shut.

Well, I'll do my best but I don't know how long I can hold them.

What of this girl? Your niece, your ward, here in this very house?

Are there any measures you can take with her?

Several .. I haven't started yet. - Isn't it time you did?

Yes.

Good morning Sleigh.

Then you're not lonely? - Oh no, my uncle is more than kind.

And I have my maid Mary Quince. - Delighted.

And this is Tom, my new friend. - Is he? He's a very luck young fellow.

Take good care of the young lady, Tom. I give her into your charge for now.

You wanted my Uncle Silas? - Invariably, my dear.

But particularly now, before I forget. - Yes?

This bible, your dear father gave it to me.

"To Silas Ruthyn from his devoted brother .. Austyn Ruthyn".

How he would esteem it if you completed the gift.

Complete it? - Sit here, child.

Now add below "And his loving niece Caroline Ruthyn".

I'm sure that would make him very happy. - Why, yes indeed.

What a nice thought of yours.

I can see him smiling down upon you as you read it to me at night.

A Ruthyn. "Caroline Ruthyn" in full to match the other.

A nice, clear hand.

There. - Thank you dear child.

Even though I'm tired.

Tomorrow I have a surprise for you. - A surprise? A pleasant one?

There, do you think I'd have an unpleasant surprise for you?

Tell me. - Tomorrow.

That's better .. now your numbers.

Oh Miss Caroline ..

A maid told me about that wing of the house, and why it's always locked up.

It's where that terrible death took place that time.

And it's been locked up tight ever since.

I'd forgotten all about that.

I wonder what it is like. I shall ask my uncle for the key.

No, no! Don't do that! Don't never say anything about it to the master.

I did once .. never again .. he's trying to forget it all I think.

It is not for you to concern yourself, Giles.

What do you want? - The master is asking for you.

The surprise!

Do you know anything of the closed wing? - No, but I can show you another way in.

Me? Don't you dare!

Dear Caroline .. this is my son.

Your cousin, Dudley.

Your son? .. This man?

Yes, why? You've never seen him before? - He came to Knowl.

Knowl?

Yes, he came there to meet a certain person.

True enough .. to meet you.

I happened to be in the neighbourhood. I heard reports of my beautiful cousin.

You can hardly blame me if I was a trifle impetuous.

But that old harridan who said she was your nurse .. scolded me severely.

But now, we can begin to make amends.

Ha ha. He never told me this, the rascal.

Oh, but come, dear child, you must learn to admire the spirit of enterprise.

If you can find no excuse for him .. you're mirror can.

But sir, he has not stated his true reason for coming to Knowl.

Caroline, you accuse him of lying?

Dudley .. you shall take your oath.

Where's my bible?

It's always near at hand. - No! Send him away!

Why didn't you say you met her at Knowl? What did you do to her?

Nothing. She gave me the slip. She won't again.

Bumptious fool! Do you know what this means to me and you?

Leave it to me. I can handle women.

What do you know? You never say that to me, you novice.

Now listen to me ..

Now, now, don't look at me like that.

You don't hide that pretty smile from my father.

He is my friend.

Then why don't you show him a little more charity?

What .. do you mean?

If you weren't so pretty I could be angry with you.

Thank you, I'd rather you were.

Has it ever occurred to you .. that you are the richest heiress in the county ..

And my father trying to maintain you with one foot in the debtor's jail.

I can well believe that .. if, as I hear, he has to pay your debts.

You've never said a civil word to me yet. Why do you hate me?

But you don't ..

You're just afraid to follow your natural instincts.

Come .. give me a kiss.

My cousin Monica! Oh thank heavens you've come!

Well my dear, that's a violent way to greet an old acquaintance.

I was escaping from a new and very nasty one.

Oh.

As I say my dear cousin, I never knew you. That was forbidden.

But I knew of you, and that was extremely tantalizing.

Those days are over alas. - Alas, you say?

Alas for you, who has now left behind the guarded speculations of youth.

Oh .. thank you.

For myself, I rejoice that the past is but an evil memory.

Yet, from what Caroline tells me of your son, there seems to be a distinct echo.

Can you blame a young fellow for having an eye for beauty?

I suppose not if it is in the blood.

Caroline was happy here, until he came and planted his boots on the furniture.

Yes, if she were half as happy as I. - I was, and I want to go on being so.

Of course.

But I repeat, my firm intention of taking her back with me for Christmas.

It will do you good to have a little gaiety.

Oh but cousin Monica, my mourning .. - Yes, indeed. Our mourning.

It does not affect you, you're not invited. It might set you off again.

Hang the conventions anyhow.

I'm sure you will agree with that sentiment, cousin.

Well .. Satan urges me to be selfish.

But go my child, if you wish to. - Oh yes, I do.

It will break my heart to part with the child, even for a short while.

Go and bid your maid to pack your belongings, and her own.

Are we going now? - Certainly.

I will come and superintend. - I will tell Mary at once.

After all, it's only three days to Christmas.

Why should my poor horses make the journey twice.

Yes, we must be kind to the horses. - Indeed we must.

Mercy me, this is all very precipitant.

I've not yet even purchased the child a yuletide type of gift.

The best gift you can make will be to get rid of your son. He's too ambitious.

Did Caroline ever speak to you of young Lord Ilbury?

Ilbury?

No, no I think not.

He will be at my party. Trust me, your niece shall be Viscountess one day.

So cheer up, that should mend any social reputation. Even yours. Goodbye.

Here comes I, Saint George, so bold and grand.

I'll fight the fiery dragon, with my hand will I slay.

And by it, win the King Of Egypt's daughter.

Away dragon! Away you go ..

"God rest ye merry, gentlemen, let nothing you dismay."

"Remember Christ our Saviour was born on Christmas Day."

"To save us all from Satan's power when we were gone astray."

"Tidings of comfort and joy. Which brings tidings of comfort and joy."

Bring her into the morning-room Richard. - What's in the morning-room?

She has a Christmas present for you. - This all gets more and more wonderful.

It has to .. to do you justice.

There my dear .. a real evening dress for you. And about time too.

Cousin Monica, it's the first I've ever had.

It's heavenly isn't it? - It will be.

I hope not. Angels always appear lamentably heedless of the fashions.

You shall wear it at my New-Year's ball. Then we shall see.

Splendid!

I must go, some of my guests are arriving already.

Now don't worry my dear. It is most satisfactory.

What do you think, Quince?

I am of your opinion my lady.

That's a good fault. I wish I had more of it myself.

There is nothing more to be done, Mary. - Oh yes there is ..

The angels have given in.

Thank you for waiting for me. - I .. I wanted to see you.

Do you like my dress? - Yes, of course.

But it needs this to set it off.

But I ..

No buts. You stand still and let me put it on for you.

You're very good to me Richard. You always have been.

You must know why.

It is a beautiful locket. I do thank you.

That's not answering my question.

But it seems to have a very difficult clasp to do up.

I took good care to get one like that.

Come, come! We're waiting for you.

Is anything the matter? - Nothing .. nothing at all.

Pardon me sir. Urgent message for Miss Ruthyn.

Tell her Colonel, will you. - Tell her what?

She's wanted. - She's wanted?

She's wanted. - Wanted.

She's wanted. - You're wanted.

Tell her.

Tell who, what?

You're wanted. - Who by?

The Colonel.

What for? - I don't know.

What's all that? - Colonel Butler.

What does he want? - He doesn't know.

You'd better be careful.

The Doctor is serious too. - Really?

He came on purpose. - But he's never met me.

What is it this time? - The Doctor.

The Doctor too? I'm not surprised.

He says it's serious. He came on purpose.

Tell him he came too late.

Oh my lady, oh my lady. - Wait a moment.

Keep quiet.

The Doctor said he's had to be bled.

Well, that's very flattering of him.

Urgent letter from Bartram my lady. Very urgent.

But you did right. Read it.

Very good my lady.

What's he say now? - Colonel Butler again.

He said he had to be bled. - He's anticipating.

Caroline dear .. I'm sorry to stop you, but you must see this letter at once.

It's from the Doctor.

Your uncle is very ill.

Ill?

A carriage has been sent for you.

Please, I must go to him. I must go to him at once.

Please .. tell them to go on dancing.

Poor Caroline.

It is most inconsiderate of your uncle. But it can't be helped.

I will ride over and see you soon. Goodbye.

I'll see you to the coach.

Tomorrow .. the gate .. at ten.

So this is not goodbye. - Of course not.

It will never be goodbye for long.

Richard, it's been so wonderful.

Why must it end like this? - End? This is only the beginning.

Goodbye.

Why, Miss Caroline! - Oh Mary ..

Uncle Silas!

My poor child .. I fear I must have alarmed you.

I am often subject to these feverish night attacks.

You are really better? - Completely restored.

Away with all this paraphernalia of leeches .. you are my true remedy.

Oh, then I mustn't leave you for long. - Leave me? Why?

Where are you off to now?

Lord Ilbury is riding over. I promised to meet him.

Very charming I'm sure .. except for me.

Hasten back .. you'll find your patient downstairs.

Wait!

I've not quite finished. - I beg your pardon?

This document with your name scrawled all over it. What folly is this?

I found it .. someone has been copying my writing.

Copying? Now who would do that? And why?

Come, the truth! - But it is the truth.

I found it in your bible. - Caroline!

Not only do you utter a falsehood, but associate it with the holy testament.

You do not think ..

That I wrote it, do you?

No .. no, not ..

Not you.

I should hope not indeed.

Morning Tom. - Morning sir.

Caroline. - You're very punctual.

Only when I come to meet you. Tell me, is all well here?

Yes. I found uncle very ill last night, but this morning he is much better.

Oh I am glad. - But the trouble isn't only my uncle.

Who then? Is that son of his still here?

Yes. - What's he been up to now?

I hardly know, but last night I found a paper with my name written all over it.

Girl!

My pure and bashful little cousin.

You can't be civil to me, but you can go to market with this carpet-bag cavalier.

I've been waiting to meet you. - Now is your opportunity.

Are you hurt? - Nothing much.

But you are. I can see it. Your cheek.

Don't worry about me. Perhaps that will teach him manners.

I'm only sorry you had to see it. - Never mind.

Mind yourself sir!

Come away Tom. - Not me.

Take my horse round to the house. We're going to see your uncle.

So it seems that Caroline needs safeguarding in your household, sir.

And by heaven, she'll have it!

May I enquire sir, if you are in a position to safeguard anything?

Now, you cannot even regulate your own manners.

I beg your pardon. - I think you would!

When you burst in on your host without warning or announcement.

You must forgive him Uncle Silas, his anger made him impetuous.

Evidently! And I thought you disliked impetuosity in your admirers.

Now perhaps you will introduce me.

This is Lord Ilbury, of whom I have spoken to you.

Have you my dear? Oh yes.

May I ask your intentions my Lord in constituting yourself her guardian?

Curiously enough, I understood that was my privilege.

I find it difficult to answer you sir, in Caroline's presence.

But it is my duty to press you sir. She is my ward.

I have not yet spoken of my intentions.

You are somewhat boldly claiming to protect her ..

I feel I'm entitled to enquire your age. - I am twenty-one sir.

And she is seventeen.

Come, come. Never mind what the future may hold.

Her happiness then, as now, will be my most cherished item.

I am gratified to hear you say so.

And I'm gratified that you're gratified. So much for that. Shake hands, I beg.

Now, let's take our eyes off the distant horizon and view the immediate prospect.

I must go abroad Caroline, and at once. - Abroad?

Yes .. another illness such as this and I shall go the way of your dear father.

The surgeon who obligingly came and blooded me was most urgent about it.

Then you wish me to go abroad with you? - Ah, you read my thoughts.

I must have you near me dear child. I've decided for Lausanne.

Now, would that not please you? - Yes .. very much.

And your health must be considered.

Then, after six months we make the grand tour and return here.

That is if the Almighty pleases to restore me.

Nearly a whole year from home ..

I shall be happy to go. Have no fear on that score.

Then sir .. if this prospect meets with Caroline's approval ..

As she has just assured us, yes.

Yes well .. apart from eagerly awaiting her return.

What can I do sir? - You must find your own answer to that.

Please forgive my not escorting you to the door.

Caroline will do the honours.

But until Caroline leaves sir, I think I'm entitled to ..

Say no more!

You sir .. I've endured enough from you.

I've been told what has occurred, you dissipated rascal.

The son of his father, eh?

This is the last of you. You shall leave the house at once.

I've no wish to stay in this rat-ridden kennel.

To hell with it!

On the contrary, that is where you're bound for. Small doubt of that.

And you shall go by the recognized route.

Westward by the first available schooner.

Let her come too.

She'll find better company than Baron Barncock.

Enough! Out of my sight you! Pack your miserable belongings.

At least some good has come of my visit here.

Please. - Come Richard.

Good day, sir.

Are you content with his plan? - I must do my duty.

To your uncle? - Yes.

But .. it is not your real desire to go, is it?

For my own sake, I would rather stay.

And for my sake too? - Yes, of course Richard.

But I have to do this .. It is all part of my promise.

Oh well .. I shall be leaving Elverston tomorrow.

But I shall be back in two weeks .. and you will not have left by then?

Oh no .. and two weeks is not very long.

Only two weeks too long.

Mr Hawkes, if you please, could you ..

There he goes. He's off.

Caroline. - Uncle Silas, you startled me.

I've come to set our plans in motion at once.

Our plan? - In motion at once.

You my good girl? The poste-chaise for Knowl goes this evening.

I've betoken you a seat. - This evening, sir?

Leave my young lady so soon? But why, sir?

Because your young lady herself will be on her way tomorrow.

You spoke of going abroad only this morning.

To your great pleasure. You delighted at the proposal.

Well, yes but I didn't .. - And I knew you would be.

So I completed my plans all in advance, so that nothing should disappoint you.

Now, was that not considerate of your old uncle?

Yes .. I'm sure you mean to be.

Come in .. oh it's you Giles.

I say Mary got on the coach alright. Wouldn't have if I hadn't hustled her.

Thank you ..

I will not be down tonight Giles. I have a headache. Tell my uncle please.

Who? Alright then. - And send a maid up with my dinner.

A maid? All gone Miss. Bundled off. Sent home.

Only me left .. and I go tomorrow .. at dawn.

What is the meaning of this?

I don't know Miss. Better ask him. There it is. I don't know.

But I'll fetch your dinner Miss. Cooked it myself. I'll fetch it Miss.

Giles! - Yes, Miss?

Nothing .. thank you Giles.

My dear, dear Caroline.

You are so happy to see me. So happy .. that you cannot speak!

Is it?

Why are you here?

Why have you been sent for?

Tell me what it means. Tell me!

Because I love you so much.

You think you can keep away from one who loves you as much as I do?

Don't mock me.

This is all like a .. nightmare.

I am a nightmare. Huh?

Now, now, no. Now I find you. You think I let you go?

Never, never, never!

A fiend you called me. You and your father.

So let him come now and save you from the fiend.

From his grave! - Why do I find you here?

Because you choose to pry into secret places.

Uncle Silas! - Yes, I'm here my little eavesdropper.

What will you do to me?

What should I do? Why, place you in safe keeping my little treasure.

I'm here alone.

You've sent everyone away and your son has come back.

My heart is softened, but he'll not molest you.

Now her .. this woman .. I prayed heaven I might never see her again.

Whys is she here? At least tell me that. - That is easily explained.

To take you on your journey, your former Governess.

A lady of unimpeachable integrity, and vouched for by your own father.

He found her out in the end. It was that which brought about his death.

You hear that Monsieur?

She bites me like a snake. The snake I've nourished in my bosom.

How dare you make such an accusation! - I refuse to go. I refuse!

Refuse? I must be firm, I see. - Don't touch me!

Touch you? I've a mind to chastise you. - No, that's for me.

I, who have waited so long for this .. - Leave her to me!

There! Down on your knees and seek forgiveness.

And remember this:

Hitherto my love is fond of you, but the same spirit of love now chastens you.

She found you out before I intended.

Ah, keep her safe until tonight. - I don't need your advice.

You will post these letters in London.

A cheerful farewell from Caroline to her friends.

Lady Monica Waring.

Oh .. Doctor Bryerly.

Some of my best work. - Haha.

She shows more spirit than I gave her credit for.

Don't arouse any further suspicion. Deal gently with her.

Of course, you know how gentle I can be if I want to.

Madame, I organized this reunion purely for business purposes.

Take me away from here, dear cousin Monica.

For pity's sake take me away.

Well, what of Satan? Has he fled? - Yes sir.

Very well. You may come downstairs.

But will remain in the house. Do you understand?

To be near me, dear child. In these last hours.

Before your departure.

Good day Miss. - Tom!

Did anyone see you come in? - No Miss .. why?

I've no time to tell you now, but you must go to Elverston.

With this letter for Lady Waring. - But Miss ..

Do what I say .. I will let you out.

Go this way.

Don't fail me, Tom. - No Miss, I won't.

But I wish I knew what is the matter. - I'll tell you later. Go now, quickly.

Do not rob me of your company during your last moments here.

I've informed your trustee, Dr Bryerly of our plans.

And told him they have your full approval.

Yes?

Yes sir.

You've always been happy with me, found me loving and indulgent?

Yes?

Yes sir.

And you're willing and eager to make that pronouncement to all your friends?

Yes?

Speak up child. - Yes sir, yes.

Then account for this, you lying little hypocrite!

This letter you bribed that wretched boy to take to cousin Monica.

So much for your prayers of atonement ..

You sinful little wanton!

Take her away! - Take her away?

To have to .. a respectable female like me.

Caroline.

I cannot let you go like this.

Oh how could you hurt me, when I love you so deeply?

I can't believe you any longer. - Don't harden your heart.

Remember, I'm coming out to join you.

Then, when I see you again, let all this be forgotten.

Will you? Tell me, will you?

Yes, gladly .. if only you'd .. - Dear child, that's all I want to hear.

Now the end of your journey, will be for both of us, the beginning of a new life.

Two to Dover. - Via London?

Yes. First class.

Girl!

Post these letters.

At once!

Come along!

"Two to Dover .."

"I must do my duty .."

"To Dover .."

"I know he's watching me now."

"I promised .."

"Dover .."

"Thank you dear God .."

"Dover .."

"Dover .. Dover."

"Dover .."

How do you like Dover?

Now I know it's all a plot.

I go to bring some food.

What are you doing here?

You should be safe in that room upstairs.

Safe?

What is happening to me? And to you?

Two days ago you embraced me.

Bade me farewell, with tears in your eyes and words of comfort on your lips.

And here I find myself back ..

In that dreadful room.

In the clutches of that awful woman.

And worse even than her .. The doubts .. and fears.

Unimaginable things .. how can I resist?

I do not know what it is I have to fight against except ..

Struggling .. not knowing how to escape.

Knowing what it is I have to escape from except ..

You!

You!

My loving .. smiling .. gentle guardian.

Standing over me.

Waiting .. waiting.

Gloating .. for what?

What terrible cruelty has got hold of you?

You wish me harm, I know you do. I know you do and I can see it in your eyes.

How can you be so cruel as not to have pity? What do you want of me?

Is it my money? Take it, take it all! Take it, take it, take it!

It is not yours to give! You've got the disposal of it.

Then it is my money!

Take it I say. I will sign anything only let me escape from this ..

This room .. yes, it was the murder room .. I know it now.

I know it now.

You!

You think you call fool me?

Let me out! Let me out!

Has she gone? - Yes, Silas. I was soon rid of her.

A woman whose tongue works more quickly than her mind.

This claret should be nicely warmed by now.

Yes, but will it put her to sleep? - It will with a little of this in it.

I see.

Is that how you dealt with the bookmaker?

Have you no delicacy?

This will put her to sleep soundly enough for our purpose.

Yes, I could only do it if she were asleep. If she were conscious, I ..

Now, now, be a brave man. I'm in beside you.

We're in this little game together you know.

[ window knocking ]

Oh Tom!

Open Miss, please .. open it.

It won't open. I won't open!

Help me Tom, help me. Go to Elverston.

What?

Elverston - Lady Monica! - Lady Monica.

You hate me. Uhuh. You wish me to go.

Alright. I do go now. You will be alone. All alone.

Time you left. Come out here.

You hurry me too much. My brandy!

Yours indeed ..

Give me that key! Now remember your orders.

Down those stairs and out to Hawkes' cottage.

You will be departing later tonight. I brought you some wine.

Come. It will help you.

Oh very well, take it later. You may be glad of it.

Elverston! Elverston!

Can you take me? This way - Elverston.

Come on lad. Come aboard.

Why don't you want this?

You little fool. You don't know what you miss.

But it's no good your going to Bartram. She's left.

That's exactly why I am going.

I set out immediately I got that letter. I simply called in on here on the way.

I had a letter from Caroline too.

Written just before she started for abroad.

She seemed delighted with it all. - Oh yes, a charming letter no doubt.

Like the one to me: perfectly phrased, spelt without a flaw.

I should hope.

Her spelling was her weakest point. I used to laugh at her about it.

"And when I can see my title clear, to mansions in the sky .."

What on earth are you saying?

Have you ever had a letter from her before? I have.

"Dear Dr Bryerly, about my father's bequest .. B .. E .. C .. Q .."

I tell you, she never wrote those two letters. They are forgeries!

Dr Bryerly!

But surely Dr Bryerly, you don't think that Silas wrote them?

I do! And why? What's his motive?

That's what I mean to find out. - Oh, If I say any more I shall be rude.

And that's just a warning, because .. - Pardon me, my lady.

Is Dr Bryerly staying to dinner?

No thank you. I can's spare the time. - What a pity.

And you would have the most appropriate dish: stuffed goose!

Hey boy!

Catch him! Catch him!

Miss Caroline!

Miss Caroline!

Tom! What happened?

What happened? - Miss Caroline, Miss Caroline!

[ loud scream ]

Who's that?

Look what you've made me do! It was you I tell you! It was you that did it!

There, there dear boy, don't give in. There's no time to lose.

But I can do no more! I won't! - Oh yes you will.

Have done with that! Every moment is precious. A box in there. Come.

Give me that. We must be careful how we dispose of it.

But first we must dispose of something else, mustn't we.

But I can't touch her! I won't go near it.

Oh come, come, be � brave fellow.

I wish we had .. l�ght.

"Will you help?" - "Do you know where she is?"

"I won't touch her". - "Still squeamish, eh?"

"Bring that lantern".

On the coach! Quickly!

No!

T-G ��