Original subtitles

[wheezy breathing]

[wheezing continues]

You shouldn't go home.

You're a sick woman.

I don't feel sick.

I just feel tired.

You had a heart attack.

I had a hiccup.

You need to rest.

I've rested enough.

We won't accept responsibility

For what happens to you.

I don't expect you to.

It's my life,

And I'll do what I please.

Here we are.

This way.

Would you mind putting the suitcase down there?

I shall.

Thank you.

Fine.

I'll put these on the table.

That will be fine.

Would you like a cup of tea?

I bought biscuits. I usually make my own.

Maybe tomorrow.

No, thanks.

Nothing else I can do?

No, thank you.

I'll be fine now.

You've done enough already.

There we are.

Thank you very much. Can you find your way out?

Yes, certainly, mum.

[classical music plays]

Mother!

What in Heaven's name is going on?

Hello, Nancy.

I've just spoken to Dr. Maurice.

He says you've discharged yourself.

No. I escaped on a rope of sheets.

Honestly, mother. You can't leave hospital without telling us.

Well, why not?

You're a sick woman.

But I feel fine.

Not according to Dr. Maurice.

Please, mother, go back.

I'm sorry, but you're going to have

To carry me out of here feet first.

Mother, you've reached an age

Where your health demands care.

If you won't return to hospital,

You must move in with us.

Nonsense.

I'm staying here.

Have consideration for others.

I worry about you.

I can't come over every day just to see if you're alive.

Would you like some lunch?

George and I love you.

I'm not talking about staying with us forever.

Just a few weeks till you get your strength.

I won't be able to sleep at night

Knowing you're alone.

It's my birthday at the weekend.

George thought we might have a party.

Mother, please.

Won't you come stay with us?

I've asked Noel down.

He's anxious to see you.

Perhaps we'll even hear from Olivia.

Mother, please.

It's doctor's orders, not only mine.

Do it for me.

All right.

And thank you for tending the house while I was away.

� happy birthday to you �

� happy birthday, dear Nancy �

� happy birthday to you �

Ah. Well done.

Did you make a wish?

Oh! No, I forgot.

I did.

It's not your birthday, stupid.

[man] Melanie.

I wish you'd turn into a big, fat pig.

Rupert.

They're only teasing, grandmamma.

Your great-grandmother's come a long way, Melanie.

Be a nice young lady.

I hear you discharged yourself

From hospital, Mrs. Keeling, just like that.

Just like that.

Did you pull out tubes?

Oh, no.

Did Noel tell you that?

I thought you'd be impressed, ma.

Melanie, tell me,

Did you like the riding habit I had made for you?

Yes, great-grandmamma.

And it fits you well?

Yes, thank you.

You do spoil her, grandmamma.

Noel tells me your father

Was Lawrence stern the painter.

Well, yes.

My grandfather had a painting of his.

Really?

Rupert, did you enjoy

The treasure island I sent on?

It was your granddaddy's

When he was a boy.

Yes, I got it. Thanks.

We've got it somewhere in the country.

I met your grandfather

When he first entered the house of lords.

He was charming.

A bit old-fashioned in his tastes.

I can't believe he approves

Of your dressing like that.

Oh, don't worry.

I think it's delightful, really.

I like your new girlfriend, Noel.

She's much nicer than the last one.

I so approve of young people these days...

For the most part.

Cake, grandmamma?

Mother baked it herself--

One of Sophie's recipes.

I tried to stop her, but she insisted.

Oh, I loved it.

I missed being in the kitchen.

No, thank you.

Your mother's pastries were always too French for me.

I wish I'd known my daughter-in-law

Would be here, Nancy.

We haven't seen each other since forever.

No, darling. Not quite forever.

Your coming was such a surprise.

Why didn't you tell me you were coming?

It's your birthday.

It was a surprise.

I made Noel promise not to tell.

It's a shame about you're being so ill, Penelope.

For a time, I thought we'd lost you.

Oh, dolly, it isn't that serious.

I'm glad Nancy and George took you in.

We try keeping her off her feet, but she won't listen.

Given your condition,

Wouldn't it be best

To take to your bed permanently?

Oh, no, dolly.

I'm feeling fine, thank you.

I was telling Nancy

I think my constitution is almost as tough as yours.

Uh, coffee, everybody?

Mother, I'll do that.

I insist, Nancy.

Did you read the times today?

One of your grandfather's paintings

Is up for sale.

Really? Does ma know?

Yes.

I can't imagine they'll get much for it.

Lawrence stern's been out of vogue for years.

His paintings are typically greeted

With rounds of critical sneers

And sell for tuppence.

It's embarrassing.

Noel, please don't talk

About grandfather's work like that.

I remember him. You never knew him.

Does your mother have much of his work?

No. Two unfinished panels.

Truly hideous--oops.

Sorry, Nancy.

And his last one, the shell seekers? It's lovely.

Well, it's not bad.

'tis a bit old-fashioned, you must admit.

She only keeps it because it's of her and Sophie.

Her mother.

She died in Cornwall during the war.

Oh, I'm sorry.

Yes. Ma never quite got over that.

We used to spend the Summer in Cornwall.

It's lovely there.

Mother spent summers there, too,

When she was young.

And she lived there during the war.

I was born there.

Yes. Ma's forever talking about it.

In fact, she told me this evening

She means to go back.

There you are.

You want a hand?

Oh, no, thank you.

I enjoy straightening up after a big party.

Sort of puts life in order.

Are you going to drive back tonight?

Yes. Dolly insists.

Oh, what a difficult woman.

How do you manage?

She's my mother-in-law.

One learns.

What was he like, your husband?

Ambrose?

Oh, very charming.

Very handsome.

Dolly absolutely adored him.

I don't think she's ever forgiven me for taking him away.

Noel's a little bit like Ambrose, actually.

He could charm you into anything.

Nancy takes after dolly.

Family first.

She knows her own mind.

I think it's Olivia, really, who takes after me.

I'll be back in a minute.

You refuse to be concerned, don't you?

I mean, consider the possibilities.

What possibilities?

She can barely manage house expenses.

What if something else happened?

She could live to be 90.

Where does that leave George and me?

We've got this house to keep up, two children to put through school,

And now an invalid mother.

[telephone rings]

Without any help from Olivia.

[Noel] you choose to live in this barn of a house...

[George] hello?

[Nancy] you have no consideration...

[George] yes, I will.

[George] hello, Olivia!

Nancy did write to you when it--

How could we? You've no phone.

No, she's discharged herself.

She's staying here.

Well, the doctors--

Yes. All right.

Oh, thank you.

Hello.

Olivia?

Oh, it's so good to hear your voice.

She reversed the charges, of course.

No, I'm fine now, really.

There's no need to come.

Don't make it long, Penelope. Calls from that part of the world can be expensive.

No, please, don't come.

No, I'm really fine now.

I--I just need some quiet.

Well, it's difficult to get in a hospital...

Or--or anywhere for that matter.

[knock knock]

Yes?

Thank you for the cake. It was lovely.

Not at all.

I'm sorry about this evening.

Dolly was a surprise to me, too.

Well, it's over.

How's Olivia?

Basking on the beach, I suppose.

She wants me to visit.

Naturally, you said no.

I'm going, Nancy.

Mother, no.

I want you here.

I overheard your argument with Noel.

I'm not an invalid.

I'm 63.

And I have survived,

If I'm to believe that idiot doctor,

A heart attack.

Yes, but I can still touch, see,

Hear, smell.

I can look after myself,

Discharge myself from the hospital.

And if I so desire,

I can go and visit Olivia.

I'm searching for something.

I don't know what it is.

I do know it isn't here.

I appreciate your concern.

But I'll be fine.

Mama!

Mama!

Oh, darling.

I can't believe I'm really here.

You look wonderful.

You look so well.

Did you manage the flight?

Yes, it was lovely.

You look wonderful, too.

I look better than I did before.

I'm not at my best.

There's someone I want you to meet.

Mama, this is Cosmo.

How do you do, Mrs. Keeling?

Penelope.

Penelope.

Welcome to Ibiza.

Oh, thank you.

All those years I was chained to London,

I couldn't imagine this.

There is quite a little British community here.

Cosmo's been here, what, 15 years?

Fell in love with the place.

First sight.

Here we are.

Cosmo rents the house from a man in town.

The plumbing's a bit erratic,

So just keep flushing.

He grows his own vegetables.

And I've got a vineyard.

He's an absolute wonder.

Oh? She never tells me that.

Isn't it beautiful?

Oh, it's lovely.

It's years since I've seen the sea.

Antonia!

Hello!

That's my daughter.

She simply lives in the water.

I think she has gills.

Have some more wine.

Yes, please. It's delicious.

He makes it himself.

God makes it. I merely supervise.

Excuse me.

That's a lovely dress.

Thank you.

Rose Pilkington brought it back from morocco.

I hope it's not too special.

It's a special occasion. May I?

Oh, of course.

Would you care for one?

No, thank you.

Cosmo used to be a 50-cigarette a day man.

I worked in a London bank for over 20 years.

One day the old heart said enough.

And I came here to recover.

Brought Antonia with me.

And...

We've simply never left.

It's a wonder he's not bored.

I've got a thousand things to do--

The boat, the house, vineyard.

Shelves full of books.

Six goats, three dozen chickens,

Minus one.

The heart attack was the best thing

That ever happened to me.

No. Second best.

I thought he was a dreary sailor first.

He was showing British tourists around the island.

Then he showed me around,

And I changed my view entirely.

Hola, senora.

�cuanto valen los melones?

250.

Gracias.

He's a bit older than I.

But Lawrence was older than Sophie.

You always said they were happy.

Oh, 30 years older.

It must have been a remarkable marriage.

Oh, it was. You're happy, too, then?

Oh, yes, mama.

I do miss London sometimes.

I miss my work.

But we can't have everything, can we?

Oh, look at those.

Would you like one?

I'd love one just like that.

Buenos dias. �todo bien?

Bien. �usted?

S�, gracias.

[bell tolling]

I love the sound of bells.

I was never very religious,

But I do love the bells.

They're waiting for us at the dock.

Here we go.

All right. I'll wait in the boathouse.

O.K.

Hi!

I'll see you tomorrow.

You look as if you had a good time.

Oh, yes. I could've stayed all afternoon.

Look what I made.

I collected shells like that

When I was a child.

Our souls' abandoned holes--

My mother called them.

I thought we could shrink in size like Alice

And slip back into them again.

I know what you mean.

I feel as if I were born in those waves.

I used to dream I had a fish's tail.

Isn't that silly?

No, not a bit.

I longed for one.

Mermaids must feel so free, I always thought.

You know, like flying underwater.

That's what the sea reminds me of--

Some special sort of...

Happiness.

My parents had it.

And, uh...

Looking at Cosmo and Olivia...

I think of them.

She's lovely.

I worry about her, though.

Well, all good parents worry about their children.

So do the bad ones.

You raised her well.

Oh, I spoil her.

She forgives my faults, you see,

Whereas my ex-wife couldn't.

It's been very difficult for Antonia--

Her parents being apart.

She only sees her mother once a year.

Yes, well, divorce is very hard on everyone.

That's why I'm so glad

That Olivia's here with us.

Antonia needs a woman's influence.

Uh-huh.

So do I, of course.

I'm glad you're here, too.

Oh, so am I.

It wasn't until I felt this lovely warm sand between my toes

That it came back to me.

I love the sea.

Stay then.

Oh, I can't.

I'm absolutely determined this year

To make my garden into something special.

I only hope I can still do the work.

Why not hire someone?

I'm not sure I could manage the expense.

Olivia says you were always splendid at that--

Bringing up three children

Almost single-handed,

Taking in boarders,

Soup always simmering in the kitchen,

Constant visitors.

It wasn't all like that.

That's what she remembers.

You know how little girls

Always dream of fairy tale princes

Whacking through the thorns to rescue them?

Little boys dream, too.

But they're brave sailors, you see?

They dream of the siren

Who will someday trap them and tame them.

This particular sailor has been caught

In your daughter's net.

And you know something?

I rather like it.

Dad, Emily's got plenty of milk.

Get her to feed those two little ones.

The big one's getting more.

I'll give you a hand.

What is it? What's wrong?

They want you for managing editor.

And Cosmo won't leave the island.

Never.

Does he know about this?

No.

Don't you think you should--

Mama, this is the first time in my life

I haven't been working.

I think some part of me needs to work.

But I thought that you were happy here.

Yes...

But not complete.

You may not be complete without him.

I need to prove to myself that I can handle this job.

I've worked for it all these years.

Sounds as if you've made your decision.

I want you to talk me out of it.

I can't do that.

I want the best for my children, yes, but...

Love isn't always the best, though, is it?

You loved daddy. Look how that turned out.

You loved your children, and look at us now.

Nancy trapped in that miserable marriage.

Noel climbing social ladders

Without a thought for anyone.

Mama, if I turn this down,

I may grow to resent Cosmo.

And if you love him and leave,

You may have nothing but regrets.

You ask my permission to be happy,

You have it.

You ask my advice...

I have none to give.

You must talk to Cosmo,

Not to me.

You all right?

I'm just a bit tired.

Not far to go, mama.

Ice cream?

Yes.

None for me, thanks.

Come on, you.

Why don't we sit for a few minutes?

We could go back.

Oh, of course not.

Come along. Sit down.

Whew.

They were Sophie's.

Lawrence's gift to her,

Instead of an engagement ring.

I want you to have them.

I tried to think

What my mother would've done.

Mama, I can't.

Take them.

And know that whatever you decide,

No matter how difficult it is,

It will be the right thing.

Oh, mama.

If I ask you to marry me,

Will you stay then?

Darling, please understand.

I can't continue without you.

Don't say that. It's not forever.

I'll be back for weekends, holidays.

I need you here.

Cosmo, please...

Don't make it so difficult.

That's my job.

Oh, Mr. Plackett.

Hello, Mrs. Keeling.

I hear you've been ill.

I'm better.

I'm looking for a gardener.

Mr. Plackett.

Be right with you.

Dotty old bird.

I need someone part-time on a regular basis.

What sort of work?

Weeding, replanting, clearing out-- that sort of thing.

Talk to him then.

Danus!

[honk honk]

Danus Muirfield.

Penelope keeling.

Sorry.

That's all right.

[woman] Mr. Plackett!

Coming.

Is it good?

Yes. Like home.

Where's home?

Edinburgh.

How did you end up down here?

I was in the university.

What were you studying?

I was going to be a lawyer.

I didn't like it. Prefer this.

Why so far from home?

[horn honks]

There's someone here.

Hello, Nancy.

How nice to see you.

Hello, mother.

You look well.

Everyone's envious.

How are the children?

Oh, fine.

And George?

What is it?

Have you seen this?

Oh, my goodness.

200,000 pounds.

I can't believe it.

Suddenly everyone likes them.

You got a fortune hanging in your house.

Oh, dear, yes, well,

That's very nice, isn't it?

George thinks you ought to sell.

If you don't, it must be insured.

That costs a fortune.

So George thinks--

Surely I must have a say in this.

The point is, they're much too valuable to keep.

So George thought--

The paintings are mine.

I must decide what I'm going to do with them.

I'm all set.

I'll see you Thursday.

Thank you, daunts.

Who's that?

My new gardener.

How can you afford him, mother? Really.

Now, please, you've got to listen to reason.

Nancy, I'd rather not discuss this just now.

Just sell the panels then.

You can keep the shell seekers.

Six weeks ago, you couldn't have cared less what happened to them.

But things have changed.

You're a wealthy woman on canvas.

If you sell the paintings,

You can have a gardener,

Housekeeper, nurse.

You can't do anything

Until you've sold the paintings.

200,000 pounds is enough.

The money you give away when you're alive

Is worth twice what you give away dead.

Meaning I should give it to you.

Better us than the government.

What would you do?

The children's school fees are due.

Melanie needs new clothes.

And George's club fees are late.

And I've--

George put you up to this, didn't he?

I'm not paying George's club fees.

I'm not sending your children

To those expensive boarding schools.

If you'd been less ambitious for yourselves

And spent more time

Teaching your children manners,

Perhaps they would've been happier today.

Mother, be fair.

You show more interest in your garden, than me.

If it's money you need, go to dolly.

She's been more than generous so far.

She bought you all the clothes you wanted,

Gave you horses,

Big coming-out parties,

The big white wedding you said you needed.

Fine. I couldn't afford those things.

I tried to help you then,

But you said that you didn't need my help.

If you need help now--

When did you ever help me?

Dolly was always around for me, never you.

You can't believe that.

I thought I was unwanted

Until Noel was born.

Then I saw you neglect him, like you did me.

I didn't neglect you.

Olivia's the only one you really cared for.

That's simply not true.

I wanted that love,

But it was never there for me.

Was it?

Was it?

Nancy.

Nancy!

Yeah, I'll call them back.

[woman on speakerphone] it's a young lady.

Just take a number.

Long distance from Ibiza.

She says it's urgent.

[telephone rings]

Yes?

Mother, it's me.

I'll have to call you back, darling.

No, wait.

It's Cosmo. He's had another heart attack.

Mama...

He's--he's dead.

Oh, dear. Come in. Come in.

And what did you do then?

Oh, Lord, well, why did you tell her that?

Because it's a really stupid thing to say.

You have to learn to keep your mouth shut.

Nancy? Na--oh.

Now what's happened?

Ma won't sell the paintings.

Why should she? Can't say I blame her.

Look what I found in the cupboard.

Where'd you get it?

It was grandfather's. I nicked it from mother's

When she sold the London house.

Could I keep it?

No, you cannot. Only for tonight.

[doorbell rings]

Ah, right, come on, that's my driver. We better go.

Hello, Olivia. It's Noel.

Call me when you get in, please.

What's this?

What?

Hole in the pocket.

Perhaps something's fallen into the lining.

Some money.

I doubt it. Not in our family.

Ah, here we go, a piece of paper. Maybe it's a fiver.

Oh, no, a letter.

Lawrence stern.

Give it to me.

The house wasn't ours.

If you hadn't offered,

I wouldn't have any place to go.

But I won't stay long.

You will stay as long as you like.

My children scream at me for living alone.

They'll be very pleased.

And I love your company.

I never knew anyone who died before.

I loved him so much.

Time passes.

You'll come to terms.

[knock knock]

She'll sleep now.

You've been very good to her, Olivia.

Oh, mama.

No regrets, my darling.

No regrets.

This time, I think you're going too far.

Oh, come on, Nancy.

You can't expect me to do it alone.

What are we supposed to do if you find them?

They may not exist just because the letter said so.

First, let's get them.

We don't know how many or what their value is.

If it's a great deal,

We'll share it with her.

I think it's unfair.

So is she.

Honest, ma. I'm worried.

The papers are full of it--

Elderly people living alone, horrible things happening.

Only last week, I read of two fires near Sirencester

In places just like this.

Well, I don't smoke.

Oh, Antonia, this is my son Noel.

Antonia's staying with me.

Yes, Olivia said.

Oh, I'm sorry about your father.

Thank you.

One of the fires

Started in the woman's attic--

Two much clutter, old wiring.

You ought to clean yours out.

I don't have time.

Danus is in the garden.

Go and introduce yourself.

I'll do it myself.

I've got the weekend.

I won't throw anything away

Without your approval.

I just don't want you going up in flames, ma.

Hello.

I'm Antonia.

And I'll wager anything you're Danus Muirfield.

Would you like a biscuit?

No, thanks.

It's a perfect name--

For a gardener, I mean.

Some people have names that are exactly right

For who they are. You agree?

Charles de Gaulle, the savior of France,

Benito Mussolini, a big brute of a name,

My father's name was Cosmo,

Man of the world.

It was nice meeting you.

When I was a boy,

We had a rector in our church called Mr. Paternoster.

[clatter upstairs]

Oh, remember bear?

Couldn't go to sleep without him.

Oh, what a dreadful mess this all is.

Goodness, gracious.

Oh, look.

Well, you never were a champion speller.

My goodness.

Oh, here are your letters from Eton.

My, but you were so homesick.

I remember your first letter.

You'd only been gone two days.

I was so upset,

I almost went and brought you back home.

Don't, ma. It's in the past.

Please.

There's no sense in keeping them.

Noel.

Go through those other boxes.

See if there's anything you want.

The rest we can cart away or burn.

These can start the fire.

How could anyone do this?

Destroy such memories?

I could never burn mine.

Could you yours?

I wouldn't know.

Some of these things--

We'll have to drive them to the dump, I suppose.

You'll have to, not me.

I don't drive.

Here.

I had to do this with my father's things--

Throw them away.

It's difficult-- just tossing them out.

Things that mean nothing to you...

But meant a great deal to someone else.

I'm sorry.

I want you to meet a new friend of mine.

Richard, this is my daughter Penelope.

How do you do?

Richard's training for the front.

He also plays chess.

I've wondered what Americans do here for entertainment.

Who's this?

Nancy. Say hello, darling.

Hello, Nancy.

Penelope's husband is missing in action.

Oh, I'm sorry.

Dodging German tanks, I imagine.

I'll be doing that soon.

Could I take your picture?

No.

Do you mind?

All right.

You needn't be as wary of German tanks

As you should be of British cars.

I beg your pardon.

I saw you last week nearly knocked off your feet.

Hello, mother.

Nancy. I was just looking

At an old photograph of you.

Remember?

No. It was such a long time ago.

Olivia says her friend's daughter is living here with you.

Yes. Antonia. So you needn't worry.

And Noel's here.

Yes, I know.

He said he wanted to clear out your attic.

Is he upstairs?

Yes.

Nancy?

Would you-- would you like to go back

To Cornwall with me?

I know it's all changed and I shan't know anybody,

But I'd love to take you back,

To share some memories.

I'm sorry, mother. I can't.

I can't leave the children.

And I've got so many things to do around the house.

And George is helpless when I'm not there.

Perhaps...Later on,

When things are slower.

I'll be upstairs if you need me.

Did you find them?

Oh, hello.

So you decided to come after all?

Most likely she threw them away.

She never threw away anything in her life.

I know. It's all up here.

Look at this.

She even saved your baby clothes.

No. He must have sold them.

Sold what? What are you looking for?

Memories.

Don't lie to me, Noel.

It's nothing in particular.

Don't lie to me.

Show her the letter.

It's, um, from one of grandfather's clients.

It's about a sketch for the Tratso garden.

He probably made sketches of all his paintings.

They'd be worth a small fortune

If they still exist.

And what were you going to do with them,

Sneak them out behind my back?

Of course not, ma.

Well, you've got to sell.

The money you give away while you're alive

Is worth twice--

Yes. Yes. I know.

But why? How much do you need?

Just a share of it.

You've got three children.

You could unload a certain amount--

Keep a bit for yourself.

What would you do with it?

Ah. Commodity broking.

Well, I--I need a bigger flat for that--

One that I can work from.

And then there are certain circles

I have to break into.

I'd have to entertain--

I'm expected to sell my paintings for your advancement?

Oh, ma.

I can't believe what I'm hearing.

You're just like your father.

Please.

You don't give a hoot about me,

My house, my father's paintings.

They're all I have left of him, Noel.

Lawrence is dead.

We're your children. You owe us.

I don't owe you anything.

To love us, then.

Mother, we only want you to make the right decision.

You want me to do

What you want me to do.

Well, I'll sell the paintings when I choose.

Just the sketches then. Have you seen them?

Did Lawrence sell them?

Thank you for clearing out the attic.

You went too far, Noel.

I'm no criminal. You're as bad as she is.

I need the money. So do you.

That's no excuse for sneaking behind her back.

Oh, stop being so noble.

In the end, it comes down to cold cash.

She has it. We need it.

There's such a thing as subtlety.

Choose a side, Nancy.

Stop sitting on the ruddy fence!

Hello. I have an appointment with Mr. Brookning. Penelope keeling.

Yes. He's expecting you.

Penelope.

Oh, Roy, how are you?

It's been a long time.

I've been rather reclusive in the country.

I was a student of her father's when we met.

My libido was in its prime,

And I hadn't the least idea what to do with it.

How are the children? I haven't seen them in years.

They're doing quite well.

And so are you, Roy.

Lawrence said I'd make a better dealer than a painter.

As usual, he was right.

Sophie?

The last he did of her before she died.

He could never bring himself

To put it on canvas.

Where did these come from?

I've had them for years.

They were hidden in the back of my wardrobe.

I'd forgotten about them.

Hidden?

Well, I didn't want Ambrose to find them.

His gambling got so bad,

He was selling everything he got hold of.

I don't know what you saw in him.

You were mother and father to your children.

Admit it.

Yes. Well, we've all managed somehow.

What do you think I could get for these?

5,000...

Apiece.

How soon?

Six months. We'll auction them in new York.

Ah.

Roy, I need some money now.

I'm going to make a Journey.

I'm going back.

I don't know why, but I simply must.

How much do you need?

1,000 or so.

I wish I could talk you out of selling.

They'll be worth more in a year.

No. I've made up my mind.

Thank you.

Are most men like you?

What's that supposed to mean?

Hard-working, quiet...

So simpleminded.

Some.

Most are better.

You see, you're the first man

I've really spent time with,

Other than my father.

Are your parents still alive?

Yes.

Don't you get on?

Average, I suppose.

Why don't you drive?

Was it an accident or something?

Do most girls ask as many personal questions as you do?

Some. Most ask more.

I never learned to drive.

No reason in particular.

Olivia?

Mama.

Hello, my dear. How are you?

I finished my meeting with Roy Brookning--

Insurance on the paintings.

I thought I'd visit,

But if you're too busy...

No, no. Come in, please.

Roy sent his love, incidentally.

Oh, yes. How is he?

As always, a dear friend.

Would you like some tea?

I'll finish this and we can go to lunch.

No tea, thanks.

Isn't this an interesting office?

It's a mess now.

We're approaching deadline.

You all right?

Yes. I'm fine.

And Antonia, she's happy?

I think she is.

She spends lots of time in the garden.

She likes gardening?

She doesn't, really, but she does like the gardener.

Olivia, I wanted to ask you a favor.

Anything, mama.

I'm going to Cornwall.

Cohn cottage, papa's studio, all of it.

Could you come with me?

When?

Well, right away.

I couldn't. The issue's due by the 15th.

I couldn't leave now.

Yes, of course. I just thought--

I could come in Autumn.

No. I want to go now.

Well, perhaps Noel could go with me.

If he drove, I'd be there in under an hour.

Mama, I'm sorry.

Don't be.

No regrets.

Remember.

Noel?

Hello, Penelope.

Dolly. What are you doing here?

Where's Noel?

He's picking up the car.

I'm taking him to dinner.

What are you doing here?

Did he invite you, too?

Your children keep inviting us

To the same functions.

No. I just happened to be in town.

He called me here

For a financial discussion.

He says you refuse to sell the paintings.

Well...

I only hope you know what you're doing.

Dolly, I'm not here to discuss my finances.

You've never discussed them with me

In your life.

It's none of my affair.

I just feel I'm continually expected

To bail Nancy and Noel

Out of their financial difficulties

Whenever their mother--

You're not expected to do anything of the sort.

Somebody has to. They're helpless.

They're capable of looking after their own finances.

Penelope.

I cast no aspersions.

I'm simply saying that in their upbringing

You never taught them discipline and responsibility.

If it hadn't been for me--

I simply can't listen to this.

What I thought was important

Is what I was brought up with.

That's what I gave my children--

Not money, love.

I loved them. I still do.

I won't have this.

You were always the most irresponsible woman I have ever known.

You didn't even come

To your own husband's funeral.

That's past history.

I'm not interested--

No, it's not past.

It's never past.

Your children are unhappy

Because of the selfish bohemian way you raised them

And the thoughtless way

You treated their father.

I never thought you worthy of Ambrose,

And you proved me right, didn't you?

I loved him.

You scarcely knew him.

That was the war, dolly, not me.

We met and married in the war.

That was Ambrose missing in France,

Me living alone all those years in Cornwall.

And after the war,

It was you never leaving us alone

That led to his debts and his drunkenness.

Your indifference did that.

No! It was your constant interference.

I simply put up with what you had created.

I tried to be friends with you.

After Sophie died, I needed a mother.

You never approved of me--

Why should I approve?

Ambrose was meant for better.

He might as well have thrown his future in the River.

He chose to marry me.

As for his poor children--

You stole them from me the moment you could.

Showering them with gifts,

That's your sort of love.

If my children are poor,

It's only because of the empty money you used to win them over.

It's a wonder you haven't learned

From the mess you made of their father.

Why didn't you stop it?

Because my children are not my possessions.

They must do what they want,

See whom they want to see,

Make their own mistakes.

And they've made plenty, haven't they?

That's not mothering. That's neglect.

It's more of your bohemian independence.

I never neglected them!

Yes, you did.

Your parents' reckless lifestyle,

That makes you irresponsible.

My parents loved me.

I won't listen to another word against them.

That's what drove Ambrose away.

Is that what you think?

Didn't he ever tell you why?

He didn't need to. It was perfectly clear.

It wasn't me, dolly. It was Noel.

Noel?

I was pregnant with him,

And the last thing Ambrose wanted was another child.

So he runs home to mum,

Leaving me alone

To continue raising his children without him.

Now look at the boy.

He's becoming like his father--

Empty, shallow,

Wallowing in the same self-centered shallowness that killed Ambrose.

And that's your doing, not mine.

But love can't hold out against the likes of you.

Noel.

Noel.

[door slams] oh.

[air raid sirens]

Are you all right?

Yes.

It's just bad dreams.

What about?

My mother... And me.

She had... Something,

Some... Feeling for life.

A gift for mothering.

But she died

Before she could pass on the secret to me.

I'm 63 years old, Antonia,

And my children are grown,

And...I'm still searching.

Would you like to come with me to Cornwall?

I've asked the others,

And they're all too busy.

I'd love to.

Danus, too. I want you both.

I'm not sure if he will.

He's so private.

You get so far with him, and it's like a gate slamming in your face.

Well, we can ask him.

He can only say no.

I don't drive.

Penelope and I will do the driving.

We'd like your company, that's all.

It's just for the weekend.

We'll be back Monday.

I'll think about it.

Why do you have

Such a chip on your shoulder about everything?

Hasn't it occurred to you

That she actually wants you on this trip?

Do it for her.

You're going, aren't you? That's enough.

She asked us both.

[Penelope] my goodness.

I know, of course, it's changed a lot,

But in many ways it hasn't.

When looking at it from up here,

It could be half a century ago.

I've come here so often in my dreams,

I can't believe it's real--

The same buildings, the same streets.

Somewhere inside I...

I still feel like a little girl.

But this is terribly extravagant.

Yes, it was meant to be.

Hello. Lawrence is out for a walk.

I said I'd stay here.

Where's Nancy?

Asleep in the cottage.

She's fine. I just looked in on her.

I got my orders.

How long?

Three weeks.

Where?

I can't say.

I hate this war.

I want it to end.

Who would have thought it would touch us here?

They said we were so safe, and then Sophie...

And now you're going, too.

I wish it would leave me something.

Do you hate me for saying that?

No.

I don't hate you.

[sobs]

[honk honk]

I'm sorry.

Pen.

Hello, pen.

Richard?

I never dreamed I'd find you here.

I don't believe it.

I simply don't believe it.

Me, neither.

But you--you haven't changed.

Oh, of course I have.

And then what happened after the service?

Well, after the war, I, uh...Met someone,

Went into my father's business, and, uh, made a life--

Uneventful sort of stuff.

And you?

Still with your husband?

No.

How about little Nancy?

I bet you're a grandmother.

Twice.

Why did you come back, pen?

I don't know.

To find something.

Something that I once had...

And since lost. Something elemental.

Something that I still have, but I...

I can't remember where I put it.

You know, I'm almost twice as old as Sophie

When she died.

I could be her mother now.

Isn't it astonishing?

And you?

I retired.

My son thought it'd be a good idea for me to vacation.

A group of us old soldiers

Came back looking for memories.

But for me, not so much sights, but...

I felt so much here.

I came back...

To remember the feelings.

What went wrong, Richard?

What became of my life

And the babies that I bore and loved?

I can bear anything for myself,

But to see my children so lost is unendurable.

It's not your fault.

Isn't it?

I woke up in that hospital,

And thought, "I can't leave them.

They're so miserable."

There were times in my life...

Well--well with Sophie and Lawrence and you--

When everything was so bright.

But my children, they--

They have none of that Joy in their lives.

Sophie had it. And Lawrence, too.

Why is it

That I can't pass it on to them?

Perhaps it's not something you can pass on.

But why not?

Why is it all I have to pass on are these?

I mean look, look, look at these--

Ambrose and me.

Never really together.

Sophie, gone before her time,

Leaving my life so empty.

Their lives, empty too.

I was no Sophie to them.

Nothing very Precious or valuable here.

I dreamed of the exotic.

And all I'm left with

Is the common collection of the seaside tourist.

And that is what I have given my children.

You could have given them us.

No. It was impossible.

It was your choice, not mine.

No. It never was possible.

I only had Nancy.

Dolly would have taken her.

It was never an option to give her up for you.

We met in such difficult times, Richard--

The war, deprivation.

Life was a day-to-day circumstance.

We had so little choice.

But my children grew up in relative abundance,

And yet, the choices that they've made

Have brought them nothing but misery.

I love them so much,

And everything that I have done has been for them.

And yet, now it seems that...

None of us has anything.

[sobbing]

They're grown now. Let them go.

It's not what they want.

Forget what they want.

The greatest gift you could give them

Is your own happiness.

You know something?

Coming back, I've been struck by the peace

And the color...

The gold of the sand, the green grass,

The sea's blue.

I feel a bit like Lawrence.

And, you know...

What was so remarkable about Lawrence

Was that he took responsibility

For his own life.

He surrounded himself with his colors,

His work, and the people he loved.

He was free, pen...

Because the choices he made

Were happy ones for himself.

That was his art.

And I'd forgotten how much I loved you.

Past tense.

It's all in the past today--

Sophie, the war, you.

But you can't stop us, can you?

We're like the sea.

We just keep roaring on, don't we?

Hello, my darling.

Sorry I kept you waiting.

I met a friend.

Did you have a nice day?

We wandered round the village--

Danus and I.

It's beautiful here.

And where is he?

Sulking.

We had an argument.

He's so sullen.

It's as if he can't love anything.

I told him that caring for him

Was like loving a block of ice.

May I join you?

Yes.

I used to sit here when I was little,

Counting the boats returning from a night's work,

Wondering which fish from which boat would be my dinner.

It's hard work...

Seeing into the future.

What about you?

You know, the garden that you've made for me

Is blooming so beautifully.

Do you hope to work for yourself someday?

That's a dream. Not a hope.

Well, what is your dream then?

I won't tell anyone.

A garden center-- my own,

Good business,

Hard work.

A family?

I don't think so.

Why not?

Tell me why not, Danus.

I have epilepsy.

I've been hospitalized.

My family thinks it's some mental disease.

I take medicine, but it's not a cure.

I can't drive.

I'm still afraid to have children,

Although I know it's not inherited.

My greatest fear is to be lost in the arms

Of the woman I love when...

My mother's ashamed of me.

My father also.

And in spite of all my scientific understanding of it,

I'm ashamed of it, too.

Antonia isn't ashamed of it.

She loves you, Danus.

Don't turn away from somebody

Who loves you so unconditionally.

Don't deny yourself the possibility of happiness.

You deserve it. We all do.

I don't expect anyone to love me knowing this.

I mean, you might say you love me now,

But wait till you see me when it happens.

I don't know how to love you.

It's been so long.

I don't know how to love anyone.

Danus.

Danus.

Hello. Is it true?

Oh, congratulations.

I can't wait to meet him.

Where's ma?

She'll be down in a minute.

Would you like tea or coffee?

No, we'll be fine.

I'll be off then.

Hello, Nancy, George.

What's wrong?

You look as though you're at a funeral.

Where's the body?

There is none.

What?

Hello, everyone.

Thank you all for coming.

Hello, George.

Penelope.

Where is it, ma?

You'd better sit down.

Did you sell it?

No, I didn't sell it.

It hasn't been stolen, has it?

No.

What then?

I've given it away.

Good Lord.

Mother, how could you?

You must be joking.

To whom?

To a gallery.

What induced you to do such a thing?

Do you know what that picture's worth?

Well, I know what it's worth to me.

You've all scarcely looked at it for years.

You told us you couldn't live without it.

Yes, and now I want to share it.

Completely out of her mind.

You seem to forget, George,

That the painting was mine.

It never belonged to you.

You can't afford it.

You've little enough as it is.

I promised the panels to a private collector

For 300-odd thousand,

And the sketches will go on sale in January.

The sketches?

You mean you knew about them all along?

Well, I hadn't thought about them for years.

I'd been hiding them from your father.

And what about us?

What about your family, your grandchildren?

How can you happily give away their inheritance

When you know it's the only thing--

You can have the money.

I'll take what I need from the panels.

The rest is yours-- all three of you.

Divide it as you wish.

Mother.

I don't want to be treated

As an invalid anymore.

If I fall down the stairs and land in a heap for weeks, that's my business, not yours.

We only worry because we love you.

You've been urging me to do this for months.

I spent some money on myself

And returned to Cornwall.

Is that bothering you?

I invited you all.

Oh, good reasons, mama.

Excuses.

But I think it's just as well you didn't come

Because I learned something.

I may not have been the best wife

Or the best mother,

But I gave you all that I had to give,

And now it's my turn...

To make my own decisions,

To live my life as I see fit.

I know all of your...

Your virtues and your shortcomings,

And I love you all very much,

But I'm not responsible for you anymore.

Well, I thought we might have some lunch.

Who gets the money from the sketches?

I'm giving it to Antonia.

Oh.

She's not even one of the family.

She is to me.

If I can get her and Danus on their feet--

She'll squander every penny

On any stray dog.

Don't be condescending to me, George.

For the very first time in my life,

I've experienced the Joy

Of giving to someone other than my children.

It's made all the sweeter

Because of the Grace and gratitude

With which it has been received.

And that's what you want from us--endless thanks.

I want you to take your money and be happy.

I wish the very best for you, Noel.

What you do with my love is as much up to you

As what you do with my money.

You have so much going for you.

Why do you always want more?

I only want what I deserve.

You want what your father wanted.

If I'm wary of your schemes,

It's because I lived through it with him.

And that's why you dislike me so much.

I don't dislike you. I love you.

You have an odd way of showing it.

I am not my father.

My life has little to do with him or you.

You always succeeded

In making me feel that I'd failed you.

I think you have.

Well...

Well, I'll see you later, Nancy, George.

Would you like a lift, Olivia?

No, I'll take the train tomorrow.

Noel...

Please.

Bye, ma.

Nancy, I think we best be going, too.

I think you're foolish, Penelope,

To say the least.

Likewise, George.

Nancy.

I'll be waiting in the car.

I think you're terrible.

No, she's not. She's generous to a fault.

We should be more than content.

She's always loved you.

Don't start that again.

She never tries to understand me.

Perhaps because you never try

To understand anyone else.

She's always had time for you.

She's never given me anything.

She gave us all a terrific start in life.

You can't blame her for your life, Nancy.

You did that to yourself.

Who are you to say that to me?

The beautiful, perfect Olivia.

Perfect life, perfect looks.

You've never had to make a difficult decision in your life.

You think I'm so different from you?

You think my life's perfect?

You think I don't want a husband and family?

You were the perfect one growing up,

Dolly's favorite.

I had to work for what I have.

I made different choices, some right, some wrong, but they were my choices!

I don't blame them on my mother!

Olivia, that's enough.

Nancy's right.

She has good reason

For feeling about me the way she does.

I wasn't the best mother to you at first.

I was very young.

I tried to cope in the best way I knew, but...

It wasn't enough and I'm very sorry.

But you know, Nancy,

There was a time

When you and I were alone together.

Never that.

Remember?

Playing on the sand all day.

Sleeping together at night.

We'd walk out at dusk,

And we'd watch the waves

Crashing against the rocks below.

Your grandfather was there.

And there was another man.

He would take you down to the sea

On his shoulders.

Daddy?

No.

His name was Richard.

Remember?

He used to give you chocolate

Out of his rations.

Sand castles.

We used to build sand castles.

We were very happy together, then.

I let him go.

I gave him up for you

Because I loved you, my darling.

I still do.

Nervous?

Yes.

No.

I don't know.

Danus is petrified.

When he saw me this morning,

He turned wedding white.

I'm so happy George agreed to give me away.

There.

You look beautiful...

Except for one thing.

They belong with a bride.

I love you, my darling.

My daughter.

[organ music]

[wedding March plays]

Dearly beloved,

We are gathered here in the sight of God

And in the face of this congregation

To join together this man and this woman

In holy matrimony

Which is an honorable estate

Instituted of God himself,

Signifying unto us the mystical union

That is between Christ and his church,

Which holy estate Christ adorned and beautified

With his presence and first Miracle

That he wrote in Canaan of Galilee

And is commended in holy writ

To be honorable among all men.

[bells tolling]

Ma.

{{{ the end }}}