All language subtitles for None.But.The.Lonely.Heart.1944.1080p

Wait. What's this,
what's this tonight?

Memorial services.

Armistice day tomorrow, you know.

Stay there, Nipper.

It might be my son.

Might.

Might be my old man.

Might.

'Night.

'Night.

When Ernie Mott

humble citizen
of the city of London

saw for the first time the
Tomb of the Unknown Warrior

he little realized
that he, Ernie Mott

might someday soon become

the Unknown Warrior
of a Second World War.

Yes, someday soon,
he might become

a glowing legend
for happy boys and girls

living a life
he merely dreamed about.

High destiny for quiet Ernie Mott

who quarreled, hungered,
loved, and was loved.

Well, this is his story,
the story of Ernie Mott

who searched for a free,
a beautiful, and noble life

in the second quarter
of the 20th century.

Ernie, grub's ready!

Don't be all year about it or
you'll have to fight the birds for it.

I'll be there in a minute, ma!

Oh, yes, yes.

Here.

Don't you think pork sausage
too good for the beast?

Here, come on.

Nothin' too good
for that dog, ma.

Part of myself, he is.

Don't like him, do you?

Where you been, Ernie?

Oh, knockin' about. I've been up
north, all over the shop.

What's up?

Why?

Oh, you're standing there,
looking as if

I jabbed you with
your own hatpin or something.

What did you come
back home for, son?

Miss me?

Can't say I did, ma.

You know me, ducky.
Tramp of the universe.

Anything in the shop
needs mending, ma?

None that need your help,
Ernie, sweets.

Besides, it's Sunday.

Painting? Polishing?

Doing a spot of gardening?

I mean to do my best
by you, ma love.

Happy couple, aren't we?

A bit of proper respect
is what's needed.

I get no more from you

than I got from
that father of yours.

And that's that.

That's that.
So you got your choice.

What choice?

Stay or get out.

Take hold here and do a man's job
or don't come back.

Stay put, so I don't have to
keep frettin' my fat about you.

What call have you, anyway
to go wanderin'

'round the country
year in and year out

like a breath of homeless wind?

Don't I treat you right or what?

Okey-doke.

I'll be off in the mornin'.

How is it, Ernie boy?
Home for a time?

How'd you know I was back, ma?

I live so close, I can fairly
hear you change your mind.

Nice music you've got
on your wireless.

Don't know what I'd do
without it.

- The piano needs tuning, too.
- Mm.

I'll stop in and have
a look at it around teatime.

- So long, ma.
- Thanks, Ernie.

Hello, Dad. Hey, when are you
mending that window?

Catch me mucking around
with a window, Ern boy.

Life's too short.

You're a man after
my own heart, you are, Dad.

'Ern!'

See ya.

Been home long?

Bring yourself in
for a cup of tea.

Me basket's full of breakfast.

Come in anyway, Ern.

- Practicing?
- It's a living.

And it pays
to keep your tools sharp.

Good to be back.

Nicest drawing room
in the neighborhood, this, eh.

It's yours whenever you want it.

Have to take you
with it, do I, Aggie?

Do you want me to move out?

♪ He's the boy for me ♪

♪ I'm the girl for him ♪

♪ He's my lump of toffee
cake and pudding ♪♪

You're the biggest fool
I ever met, Aggie.

Why?

Black as the ace, I am.
Don't you know it yet?

Matter of fact, ma gave me
the ultimatum today

"Stay put or stay out," she says.

What are you going to do about it?

Something.

What?

Something.

'You're a little flat there, Aggie.'

What's the music called?

'"None but the lonely heart."'

Italian?

No, Russian.

Nice.

Oh, well..

'See you tonight?'

- Right.
- 'About 9:00?'

All alike, you women.

I don't go on no timetables
like a train.

I'm Ernie Mott,
citizen of the great smoke

and I don't stay put!

I understand.

Do you?

Of course.

Well, then maybe
I'll see you tonight.

Nipper!

Maybe I will.

- Or maybe I won't.
- Who gave you that?

- What?
- The dimple in your chin.

A present from me pa.

- Bye, Aggie.
- Bye, Ernie boy.

- Watch 'er, Peggy.
- Hello.

Hi, Elsie.

- Hello.
- Hi, Ernie.

What's comin' off?
Sunday, or ain't it?

Nobody home, nobody home!

But it's me, Dad.
Ernie Mott!

Oh! For you..

I ain't seen you
in three months, have I?

You're blocking the door, Dad.

Miss me, did ya?

Had your postcard from up north.

Don't let any grass grow
under your feet, do ya?

Dad, how do we go
for some smokes today?

I'm so broke, I'm two halves.

What, again?

Think it grows on trees, do you?

Oh, now, Dad, You're not
giving me the boot, are ya?

What cigars you got?

May we feed the fishes?

No!

Oh, the way
those kids carry on, Ern.

Cigars, Dad.

Oh, cigars?

Well, I got a very
doubtful stock of them.

Can't make out what
happens to things lately.

I got an old Burma cheroot
somewhere.

Got more respect
for me guts, I have.

Give us a large Rigby's.

Can't sell cigarettes
on Sunday, you know, Ern.

Who said anything about selling?

- A large Rigby's it is.
- Ah, gent.

Proper lovely to be alive
and have friends like you, Dad.

Remembering you in my will, I am.

Don't think I'll live
to see the day, do you?

- How's your ma?
- Who ma?

Oh, she goes on like an engine.

The Tower of London
don't do no better.

- Bye, Dad.
- Drop in again, Ern.

'Here, come on here, folks!
Here, walk up! Walk up!'

'Here you are. Three for a
penny! Come along here.'

'Here he is, gents.'

'The best shot of the district'

'and learned here.'

Here you are.
Have a packet, sir.

Hold me dog, please, mate?

- Show 'em how it's done.
- Alright, alright.

Stand back.
Let the man see the rabbit.

Now, gents, watch the fur fly!

Quiet, please,
while the shots is took.

There we are!

Eight shots, eight shots.
And all where they should be.

Right in the black hole of Calcutta!

I told you he was,
and this is him!

Here you are, governor.
Here are your fags.

And good luck to ya!

Thanks for holdin' me dog.

Oh, hello.
Haven't I seen you before?

Here. Here's a present
for you. You know..

Don't like music?

Out of tune.

I'm Mordinoy.
Jim Mordinoy.

Am I supposed to know you?

Thought as how you might.

Ever fight your pup?

Never.

What about the piano?

What about it?

Well, do I tune it, or do I don't?

Costs you only half a bar.

Well, life's easier than that.

Take a quid, and leave
the piano undisturbed.

Now, why would I take your quid?

Just to be a pal.

Hmm.

Hmm. What's that I smell
on you, hair oil?

You know, I can't understand
why a man of your talents

wears them rags.

Clothes are a lot
of blinkin' excitement

about nothing most of the time.

As to what you call My "rags,"
they are the uniform

of my independence.

'Clothed in your perfect pitch,
you are, I suppose.'

'Now you understand me,
Mr. Mordinoy.'

Life is a piece of meat
when you know how.

What's most of 'em
floatin' around in here, eh?

Victims. Hurry, worry, and
scurry to make a bit of brass.

Right? Right.

Now, what's your kind,
Mr. Mordinoy?

Willful and deceitful.
Take what you want.

Right? Right.

So, that's what it's all about.
Be a victim or be a thug.

I suppose you don't want
to be neither. Like me.

Not the hare,
and not the hound. Then what?

'Then what?'

'Who's talkin' to you?'

Hey, who's the piece of pastry
in the jersey?

Ada Brantline.

Fair blinds you with science,
don't she?

She don't like the rough stuff.

Have to box clever there.

Yes, I suppose you would.

Change, please, miss.

You're new here, aren't you?

Hey, who's this Mordinoy?

Run the place now, does he?

Wouldn't dirty his hands on it.

Now, what's he doing here?

It happens that gentlemen
come in to converse with me.

Now, kindly move on.

How do I get
in your good books, Ada?

- 'There we are!'
- 'Very good, sir!'

Lovely fingernails.

What's up? Don't you know
when your health is good?

Wished I was a painter.

And you'd do what?

Well, what does a painter do?

In this book..

...a painter does some
very strange things.

Calls it art, too, he does.

- You an artist?
- Me? Phew.

Tune pianos, that's me.

Play the piano by ear,
polish furniture

shoot rodents with a rifle.

Are there bugs in your house?
Send for Ernie Mott.

I know how to medicate
dogs and cats.

Excellent at repairing clocks
and other delicate machinery.

I invent inventions!

What you invent?

Oh, well..

I see.

I happen to be working
on my greatest invention

at the present time.

A human animal which
don't look for a master.

Ain't easy.

Listen. Come closer.

I like that kind of talk.

You do?

Sounds barmy as the muffin man,
but I like it.

Well, it brings up
just one question, Ada, dear.

- What?
- What time you get off?

Half 6:00, 'round the back.

Thank you.

Change, miss.

Oy..

...catch.

Thank you, sir.

Charitable sort, you are.

Oh, that?

Friend of mine. Knew him when.

- When what?
- When he was a man.

Old Ike Weber, a friend
of my ma's, told me this.

"As I was out walking

"I saw in the distance
what seemed an animal.

"Come up closer,
and see it was a man.

Come still closer,
and see it was my brother."

Tired?

Hmm.

Quiet as mice, ain't we?

What you lookin' at?

Tell us.

Tired, ain't you?

Always tired.

My feet's just about wore off.

Let's go. Nice strong
cup of tea for two.

What's the dog doing here?

I don't go out
with dogs, you know.

Alright. I'll drop him off
on the way.

Come on.

Kissing you like that
the first meeting.

Never done a thing like that
before in my whole life.

'Lucky me.'

Lucky you.

Well, now... five red beetles
on the end of your fingers.

Look at that.

G sharp.
The pitch of that.

Perfect pitch, that's me.

G sharp.

Not one in a million
has that, didn't you know?

Very unusual person,
didn't you know?

Are you?

Well, of course,
and all I wanna do

is put my arms around you
and hold you tight

and murder anyone who'd
say a blind word to you.

Interesting program,
but what's it get me?

'Only trouble.'

Why don't you put that hat on?

I don't want to spoil me hair.

Meetin' someone?

It's late.
Later than I thought.

Time is not of the essence with me.

No place to go,
and goin' there tomorrow.

I don't pretend to know
what that means.

Never see me happy home again.

Fight like cats with ma, I do.

Told her off today.
So, it's the end.

She don't know they milk
the cow that stands still.

She wants me in that silly,
dusty business of hers

squeezing pennies
out of paupers, huh!

No, thanks.
No, thank you.

You mean, you're leaving
London in the morning?

Can't think of any reason
not to, can you?

- Invitin' me in?
- No.

My aunt and uncle's
asleep in the back.

I'd like to smash you
one with this!

Why?

I feel like I know you
a whole lifetime, Ada, dear.

Do you want to see me cry?

- No.
- Then say goodbye, and go away.

No sense to this, is there?

You're leaving to London
in the morning.

Just wasting our time,
that's all.

You're a stranger.
I meet you, suddenly.

You ever been in love, Ern?

I mean, you make me feel
12 years old again.

I don't know why.

You're the only man
I've met in a million years

who gives me
this slightest sort of feeling.

Say goodbye now,
and that's the end of it.

I'll drop by the funfair tomorrow.

Don't.

- Goodnight, Ada.
- Goodbye, young boy.

In the end, you wouldn't
give me what I need.

Confidence is what a woman needs.

- Confidence?
- Yes.

Good thing, then,
you won't see me again.

Black as the ace, I am, Ada girl.

No future in me
for anyone like you.

No confidence.

Goodnight, Ada.

Goodnight.

No question, Mrs. Mott.

It's worth every penny
you ask, irregardless.

I'll send by Mr. Lesser
for it this afternoon.

It goes in my private collection.

Where could I find the heart
to sell such an object?

Good enough, Ike..

...if you can afford it.

Maybe your son would like
to clean the mechanism.

He's got real talent
for such things.

I see your mind
is somewhere else today.

Still the same old trouble?

He won't stay home?

Proud as the queen's carriage,
he is and independent.

He's leaving home for good today.

Uh, excuse me for mentioning it.

But why don't I talk to him?

You've got to help me, Ike.

'But of course, irregardless.'

I'm, uh, ill.

What your wife up and died of.

Oh..

Might happen sooner than I think.

Thinking out loud.

It would be very fine
if you had him with you for..

...for the next few months.

You need sleep
and special considerations.

That's impossible with him
walking around the country.

Why don't you tell him?

No, but, Mrs. Mott,
isn't it possible that

maybe you exaggerate his feelings?

I brought Joey 'round again.

What are them pills for?

Yeast tablets.

I don't think they'd do you
any good, do you?

At least as much as you do.

See, that's what I mean.

Never an hour of peace between us.

I reckon the stork brought you
the wrong sort of son.

I wouldn't be surprised.

'You'll never get me to stay here'
'and run this shop!'

'Not if the sky fell.'

I'm not in the business
of sweating pennies

out of the devils poorer
than me self.

Not if they dragged me home
here with both me legs cut off!

I'd crawl out
in the street again, I would.

Someday you'll know
I'm your only friend.

Less said, the better.

Eat your breakfast.

Goodbye! Nipper.

I'll drop you a postcard
from the seaside.

- Where you off to?
- Rehearsals.

Had your breakfast?

I'm goin' up to Tate's.

Tate's! Tsk, tsk, tsk.

I'm sick of this street.

I've smelled it for almost
five times seven years. Hm!

Quick, let a wind come
and blow it all to pieces.

Well, I'm leaving for good now.

Miss me, will you?

Well, it's nothing to do with me
mind if you quarrel with your ma.

Yes. I'll miss you.

Marry you quick
if I had the chance.

What about money?

Money talks, they say.

All it ever said to me
was "Goodbye."

Support me, would you?

If you wanted me to.

Think you can handle me, Aggie?

I know how to handle you.
Not handle you at all.

Leave you be.

Never been so tempted
in all me born days.

Think about it.

You know the address.

Oh, I'm late.
I've got to hurry.

Goodbye, Ernie.

♪ The gray dawn is breaking ♪

Bye, Aggie.

♪ The horn of the hunter
is heard ♪♪

Nipper, you stay there.

A big fourpenny bit,
and two of chips.

Looking very prosperous there, Len

new fixtures and all.

Yes, I got mine.

Looks as if
it's all in your teeth.

Ain't it time you stayed home

and settled down in business
for yourself, son?

Me? Hmm... if that's
what you happen to want.

It's safe,
that's what it is... safe.

Well, if it isn't Ike Weber what
brings you to the neighborhood?

And how is Mr. Mott today?

What an honor, Mr. Mott.

Come down for some of Tate's
famous chips, did you?

Mm-hmm.
Everything with a kiss.

- I'm glad I ran into you.
- Are you?

I need two pounds'
worth of clock repairs.

I'm on me way to Liverpool, Ike.

Oh..

Don't they use money
in Liverpool anymore?

A gent!

Ah, ancient history.

"To Edward from Mary, with love."

You know, Ike..

...give me good old
quiet machinery anytime.

She wants a quid on this,
an old lady.

Give it to her, an old lady,
Mr. Lesser.

Everything with a kiss.

Clocks. Clocks.
Tick-tock.

Tick-tock. Tick-tock.

Did you ever realize your mother
was once upon a time

maybe the most beautiful woman
in the east end of London?

In the old days, I mean.

What about it?

Excuse me if I put
a flea in your ear.

Your mother is a very sick woman.

You owe me two pounds, Ike.

Pay it. I'll be on me way.

What is it she's got,
a pain for her no-good son?

Your mother is not
a superficial woman, Mr. Mott.

When she gets ill, she gets ill.

- What is it?
- Cancer.

I recommend you're not
to say a word to her.

Everything with a kiss.

Mm. Hmph.

What are you laughing about, son?

- Are you laughing?
- Huh?

I thought I heard you laughing.

Seems like I saw you before.

Wasn't it the other
night in Westminster?

What's your name, son?

Ernie Mott.

As the bacon said to the egg

"So pleased to meet you."

Henry Twite's, my name.

Ernest Verdun Mott.

That's mine, if you want it all.

And how did you come by
a rare, old title like that?

Me father.

He rolled up there
at Verdun in the last war.

A friend of mine
put something in my ear

and I can't get it out.

Buzz, buzz, buzz.

Been drinking, have you?

Lor Lummey, you got it bad.

I know all about trouble, I do.

Son of my bosom,
that's what you are.

Son of your nothing.

I'm a lone wolf,
barking in a corner..

...plain disgusted
with a world I never made

and don't want none of.

There's the river, boy.
Help yourself.

Don't like water neither, I see.

Ah, that's different, that is.

Sweating like that
on a night like this

you'll catch your death
of double pneumonia.

Come along with me to a place
where it's warm and dry.

Give you a chance
to rub down a bit.

Here we are, Dad.
Dad. Oh, Dad.

Echo! Echo! Echo!

I'll see you soon again.

Echo!

What for, Dad? Echo..

Maybe help you to get more
adjusted to your environment.

Now, wait.

Why not help my environment
get more adjusted to me?

Follow that?

- Buzz, buzz, buzz.
- Verdun, you're drunk.

- You are.
- Oh, I am that, Dad.

Echo! Echo! Echo!

♪ Oh starry night ♪

♪ Oh starry night ♪

♪ Dee dee dee dee ♪

♪ Deedle-dee di ♪♪

Oh, well.
Say good night.

See you soon.

And me feet killing me.

Goodnight, Dad.

Night, Verdun.

Echo, echo, echo.

Buzz, buzz, buzz.

Changed my mind.

Home to stay.

Less said, the better.

Knock off on that pipin',
Ernie boy.

Get up to ma Tate's,
and get some grub.

Spirit of the morning, ma.

Here's you and here's me
all in one piece in working order.

Ta-ra-ching!
Well, ain't I lovely?

Proper dream, you are.

All blistered up
from weeks of work.

I'm gonna need some more
green paint for that sign.

Pick it up at Pa Pretty john’s.

Mm-hmm.

Hey, where are you off to?

Off to the White chapel Road,
do a bit of business.

Don't know how long I'll be.

Take charge of the shop.

See how you go.

Makes me proud. You think
I can do that, ma love.

Slosh you one.

Ain't so long since I was
washing out your baby napkins.

- Come on, Nipper.
- Well, you takin' Nipper?

Why not?
Cradled him, didn't I?

Here..

...put that in your pocket.

See how you like it.

- Right.
- Slosh you one.

Oh, hello, ma.

How's your poor old feet, ma?

Old.

Here.

I think I'll
hang her up in my room.

- 'What for?'
- 'Reminds me of a person.'

Reminds me of a Christmas goose.

Here, take this with you.

Hop it now, up to your room.

What is it, ma?

There's gonna be
sausage and mash for supper.

So, don't be late comin' down.

Ma.

Makes me give at the knees,
this surprise of yours.

Glad you like it, son.

Supper's nearly ready.

Sit down
and have your supper, son.

Wish you'd walk past
Fish and Chips.

Let that Mrs. Tate see you.

Not to mention dear Ma Fadden

and her plaster-haired Alf.

Surprise 'em all, won't I?

Surprises me most.

Just like your father did

on his best days, that is.

Did you love my old man?

Love is not for the poor, son.

No time for it.

Ah..

I expect you to do something
for me tonight.

What?

Stroll around a bit with me.
We could see a film.

- The two and four penny seats.
- Go on, sauce.

Don't you try
any of them larks on me.

I'm old enough to be your mother.

Come on, ma. Do it.

- Couldn't do it, son.
- Why not?

Too rich for my blood.

Besides, sleep's a blessed thing.

Oh.

What's wrong, ma?
Something hurt you?

Nothing of the sort.
What gave you that idea?

Got a funny story
right on the tip of me tongue.

About a little man in the park.

Get them yeast tablets
up on the mantelpiece.

Tummy ache.

What about that funny story, son?

Oh, yeah.

Uh, well, this little man
is in the park, see? He..

That's peculiar.
It slipped my mind now.

- Ache all gone?
- Nothin' to it.

Sausage ain't right
for delicate appetites.

Go on.
You-you cook 'em a treat, ma.

Worst cook in London town.

Don't you try
butterin' me up on my cookin'.

If it's a pound you want
to have a good time

you'll find it up there
under the vase.

That's it, ma.

Seen right through me, you did.

Off you go, then.

Tomorrow's Sunday, so don't matter

how late you come back,
only don't wake me.

Well, uh, well, I'm off, ma.

- Have a good time, boy.
- Thanks, ma.

Hey, hey, your hat's on crooked.

'Quiet as a little mouse.'

Listen, Ernie.

I'm sorry you've come back.

Ow!

Rolled an ice-cold pickle jar

down my back, you did.

You mean that, Ada?

You're not serious.

I'm not an apple, you know
to take a bite of and throw away.

I thought about it for five weeks
whether or not to see you again.

That's serious.

'What are you lookin' at, Ada?'

- 'See a parade goin' by?'
- Yes.

Maybe a whole bloomin'
parade of troubles.

You can't fight it out
out here, you know.

There's places for such things.

Best find one.

Who's that?

Me, Mrs. Mott.
Millie Wilson.

'Alone are you?'

- You're drunk?
- No.

Give it up, I did.
Give it up.

Ma Snowden sent me.

She got herself half a dozen
feather pillows

soft enough for aristocracy.

Never slept on, neither.

Where'd they come from?

- Usual place?
- Yes.

You know, I don't handle
stolen goods, Millie?

She'd sell them cheap,
she would, dearie, Mrs. Mott.

'No.'

Three or four fine woolen
blankets too dearie, Mrs. Mott.

No.

- Quiet.
- Sorry, Mrs. Mott.

Now, be a good boy,
Ernie, and say good night.

What a way you have of making
simple things difficult.

Think so?

Suppose a certain party don't
happen to like me seeing you?

- Who would that be?
- Jim Mordinoy.

Mordinoy, the flash boy?

How has he crept into
your young scientific life?

Didn't say he had, did I?

There's about 20 good kisses left
in me but he'll never get one.

Told him so?

More than once.

Then that's that.

According to whose book?

Ernie Mott's.

I'd blind him out of two
eyes quick as see him.

Here's hoping you don't try.

Now, say good night, Ernie,
and let's forget it all.

We alright
for next Wednesday night?

Take me dancing?

Anything you like, Ada.

Here's five beetles on it.

Give over, boy.
You'll mash me to a pulp.

- Wednesday, half nine, then.
- That's it.

Okey-doke, Aggie.
It's a friend.

Oh, what are you doing out
this late at night?

Bit of fresh air.

- Tall tonight.
- The high-heeled shoes.

I've just finished playing
at a club dinner.

You know, what they're like.

A lot of men
smoking their annual cigars

and getting tight and showing off.

I get sick of it.

I thought you'd forgotten me.

Ah, not at all.

Want some coffee?

No, thanks, Aggie.

You're a fortune teller, Aggie?

So what?

I'm on the fringes
of a great romance.

What'll I do?

Have it.

But it's not you, Aggie.

That's no news, is it?

I know you like it honest.

'Don't often meet a cavalier
this late at night.'

But it ain't fair to you,
these sort of meetings.

Oh, really, Ern, you're a fool.

Moody, you're clever,
you're human, but you're a fool.

Why, you're trying to tell me that
you love another girl isn't that it?

I've known for weeks
why you're home to stay.

No, that isn't why, Aggie.

Well, then, why?

Me ma's ill.

Last card in the pack, it looks.

All roads lead to ma this year.

What we start talkin' about?

Nothing that won't keep.

I better make a move.

I get an idea of a sudden
she don't sleep every night.

Mind the step.

Wait a minute, Ernie.

Don't worry for me.

I'm here if you need me.

I can't help my own nature.

If I love you,
it's something I can't help

and something that I need.

People are what they are
and love what they love

and I don't see any sense
in trying to be something else.

I wouldn't trade it
for a box at the opera

the thing I feel for you.

And you can't change it,
or take it away from me.

So, there you are,
Mr. Jack-in-the-box.

Now cross over and sleep well.

Hmm.

You don't think
it's worth more, Ike?

To my mind, no, Mrs. Mott.

Alright.

It adds up just under 200 pounds.

The piano not included.

It's very disappointing.

You expected it to be more?

That's nothing.

It would go through
his generous hands in a year.

Look at him out there.

Never know it was
the same boy, would you?

There's such things as prayers
being answered, you know?

Yes.

The places of the world are empty

and the human heart is everything.

- Oh, that's a speech.
- Mm-hm.

Well, I'll go.

Thank you, Ike.
You're a sport.

Any time, Mrs. Mott.

The pleasure to serve you,
irregardless.

Whoa!

Ah, me, Verdun boy!
How are ya?

'Fine.'

How's your ma
and your other relatives?

What do you got there,
two ton of coal?

Selling fruit around the pubs
at the moment.

Doing a rare old trade and all.

That your ma
playing peekaboo in there?

Call her out. A person of me
own generation.

Ma, want you to meet
an old friend of mine.

Henry Twite.

Asked how I was, did you?

Well, can't grumble.
Been better, been worse.

Alright with you, me old china?

Ain't bad, Mr. Twite.
Could be better.

This is from your hopeful heir
sent by a dutiful son

who's looking after his ma

while she's still here
to be looked after.

- You buy these for me, son?
- Hmm.

Looks like you made
a hit there, son.

Yeah, looks like I did.
Thanks.

- Box of doll's eyes.
- Hm?

Found 'em in a shipment.

Hey, hey. Where are you off to?

Why don't you stay
and have a cup of tea?

No, meet me almost
any night at Tiger's Place.

- Give me a leg up.
- Alright.

Can't dally with friendship

when making a living's
in the air, you know?

Oh-oh, I should say so.
Come on.

- Lovely man, that.
- Oh-oh, I should say so.

Never had anything
like that give me.

Some people don't even
tune a piano for me

when it's promised.

Anyone so thoughtless ought to
have their bottom spanked, ma.

I'll be over in a minute.
Just have to get me machinery.

Nice man, that Twite.

Best of the best.

Had a quiet sniff, did you?

Let's change the subject
or I'll howl, I will.

Promised to tune
Ma Chalmers' piano.

Someone in the shop.

What you think you're doing
with my Millie Wilson?

Your Millie Wilson?
Doing what?

Three or four nights ago,
you set the dog on her.

You're as daft as she is.

Come here, Millie.

Didn't you say
she set the dog on you?

Yes, she did. That one.
The white one. Him.

- Wish I had, that's what.
- 'Wish you had.'

That's the trouble with you,
Mother Mott.

Don't you Mother Mott me,
Jane Snowden.

Two ticks, I'll put you both
in the gutter.

If you raise your voice to me.

I can see that you don't realize
what's involved here.

'Not three or four'

'but five hundred pounds.'

'And just for selling
stolen goods.'

What's the income of your shop

compared with sums like that?

Shopliftin', that's plain.
Save your breath.

'No it ain't.'

'Me and me friends
do the lifting.'

'You just do the selling.'

That's just like
walking through an orchard

picking apples.

What's wrong about that?

No bid.
No bid, Mrs. Snowden.

You tire me out, you do.

Well, I've nothing more to say.

I shan't waste me time.

There's Ma Mott, I says.

Let her make enough, I says

to live out her life in peace..

...and maybe leave a bit
for her boy, I says.

'Good old Mother Mott, I says.'

'There's the gratitude, Millie.
Called a thief.'

Something for the book,
that's what it is.

But I've got nothing more to say.

But if you happen
to change your mind..

...you know where I'll be.

Five hundred pounds, I says.

Not less.

Like me, Ernie?

A bit.

I have three reasons why
I don't care for this dancing.

One, I don't dance good enough.

Two, it's too hot.

And three,
what's Mordinoy doing here?

He owns this place.

What makes that
tie the lamb's tail?

Want to stop?

Suits me.

Now, don't you think I know
three's a crowd?

He sort of invited himself.
He's not important.

I can hardly
keep my hands off him.

Listen, 20 boys here would carve
you up like a side of beef

if he so much as said the word.

Don't be so romantic, Ernie, dear.

Save it for me.

The evening's young, don't forget.

Sit down now, shall we?

How about me, Ada?
Do I get the next one?

'Let's get me breath.
Think I'm made of?'

'Couldn't give it a name.'

'But I'll find out
one of these days.'

'Kids himself something cruel.'

I love the way
those saxes come out.

Sort of in kid gloves.

Just loud enough to be heard.

I wish I could live out
my time like this.

'Perfect pitch don't hear a word
you're saying, battler.'

What's this stuff called?

What's funny?

I thought everybody over 16
knew champagne

when he felt it in his gizzard.

I won't be 16 until next March.

You're well developed for a boy.

I don't want no quarrels here.

Quarrels? Mott likes me.
He won't fight with me.

Don't you, Mott?
Don't you like me?

Why should I like a mug like you?

Half a spoonful of lemonade
and he's bandy-legged.

That's what I like about you,
Mott, your attitude.

'It'll kill you or make you.'

By the way, Ada.
I bought the funfair today.

Ada, I've been waiting
years for this.

How about a turn or two?

I'm sorry, Mr. Mordinoy.

Mr. Mordinoy don't mind, Sid.

How's your ma doing
in that shop of hers?

Who told you about that?

Oh, it interested me to find out.

Why?

You're a cut above the usual
article that floats around.

Only a cut?

There's that attitude again.

Ada is interested in you,
it seems.

Nothing special.

And I'm interested in Ada,
very special.

I'm going to do something
for you, Mott.

Like to stuff your pockets?

You know,
where Ermington Street is?

Tattamy's garage?

I'm there any morning.

You've got talents
and imagination.

Work hard for me, and you'll
start at 50 pounds a week.

Breaking whose neck?

Don't you think your being rude?

I've been after Ada too long
to lose her for even a second.

She knows it.

Now, you know it.

But she won't wear you,
seems like.

Ada was always a bit giddy.

I recall a couple of weekends
at Brighton years ago.

We shared adjoining rooms
until we--

- Now, look here.
- What's the matter with you?

What are you interrupting me for?

Huh. I remember it used to give
me a special sort of pleasure

to choose her clothes.

Now, wait a minute!

You're young and excitable, Mott.

Sit down.

Ada is Mrs. Mordinoy.

Ernie..

Ernie!

Wait a minute.

Mrs. Mordinoy?

Used to be me name.

What'd you want? Me whole
life history in a flash?

Might have told me
it was a family quarrel.

'Cause it isn't.

Be two years next month
we're divorced.

Won't wash, Ada ducks.

What won't wash?

Less said, the better.

Quick's the word, then.

There's the door.

- Morning, ma.
- Morning, son.

What happened to you last night?

Hit by a train, head-on collision.

Half the wheels still spinning
in me head.

Oh, my!
Sheep's heart again?

Are we that poor to be eating

the insides of sheeps and cows
day in, day out?

Millions are worse off, son.

Poor, putrid millions.

'What's the price
of this one, Mrs. Mott?'

Percy Floom and Flo, lookin' over
some weddin' stuff on his day off.

Make a lovely match, they will.

Yes, to start a fire.

Proper case, ain't she?

Nice sensible head on her,
for all that.

He'll have a happy life.

Blinking idiots, the pair of 'em.

Gettin' married.

I'd like to see
a nipper or two of yours

before I get took off.

Shan't be here always, you know.

You'll have this shop
for your own.

You're all fixed up for a home.

Why don't you look around?

Had too many looks around.

And what an ugly,
unsanitary life it is.

- Needn't be.
- But it is.

Lots of love in you, Ernie.

Wants an object... something to
lavish it on.

What's wrong with you, ma?
You’re an object.

For Keats, please.

Which book, nipper?

- Boot club.
- Boot club?

Keats, Keats, Keats..

Savin' up for
a pair of boots, are ya?

Yes, sir, Mr. Mott.

That makes two and thrupence
so far, right?

How long does it take
to save for the boots?

Twenty-seven weeks, sir.

Your ma always goes three and
a tanner on him and you know it!

Sorry, but I can't pay you
more than what the book says.

Then you can take it
or leave it, you and your ma!

Sorry.

'So, you're throwin'
me out, are ya?'

No, no.
I'm not throwing you out.

I just can't give you more than
half a crown for it, that's all.

Then, I'll take it.

But I'll tell your ma on you.
You wait!

No feelings, no nothin',
you young blokes!

No matter to you what we
has to go through, does it?

Here's your money.

Joey?

Joey..

Hey, lovey?

Speak to your mum, ducks!
Speak to her, boy!

Here, Ern. You reckon
he's alright, do you, Ern?

Here..

Here, old girl.
Here, old girl!

Take half a crown.

Here's Joey.

What's up now?
Pinched somethin', has she?

Peace!
That's what I'm looking for!

I want peace!

With happy hearts..

...and straight bones,
without dirt and distress!

Surprises ya, don't it?
Peace!

That's what us millions want.

Without having to snatch it
from the smaller dogs.

Peace to be not a hound
and not a hare.

But peace with pride
to have a decent human life..

...with all the trimmings.

'Won't find nothin' like that
in this world.'

'Not inourtime, son.'

No way to beat it, boy.

There's a way..

Travel with the hounds.

Where you off to?

A walk around.

- Nipper..
- Leave Nipper here.

Right.

Open it.

I don't want no more trouble
in my life, Ern.

I've had a big packet of it
in my time.

No more, Ern. Not from you
and not from Jim.

I'm leaving here as soon
as I find another job.

I was feeling
as if I'd just started living.

Were you?

I ought to hate you, didn't I?

But I don't.

Want to come in half a minute?

Want me to?

There's something
that I'd like you to see.

Very mysterious, the room
of the girl you love.

Yours?

Yes... that's my kiddie.

The little girl of all my dreams.

What a wallop you give me, Ada.

Put your face up half a mo'.

Put your arms around me.

Aren't you happy to see me?

Yes, you make me very happy.

But I have to tell you..

I'm thinking of going in
with Mordinoy.

I want to get some money.
I don't know how to get it sooner.

Really, I'm sorry.

I'm sorry I ever see you.

You'll do time.
He'll see you will, Jim will.

I'm sorry I ever see you.

My eye, what a girl.

Don't she ever get tired
of saying goodbye?

That's right.

Wake my kiddie.

Sorry.

You got any sense in you?

I could murder you myself.

What would you want me for?
Be your girl? Your wife?

The next week, be poking you
bananas through the bars?

I see your point, Ada.
But I'll never let you go.

No, you don't.
You don't touch me ever again.

No, you don't.

Ada, girl, don't die on me.

What can I lose
if I do a job or two for him?

Me.

Do you hear that? Me.

Listen, Ernie Mott.

The world I want can be
as small as this one room

but I have to know
it's here tomorrow, too.

Yes, I'm as old-fashioned
as sealing wax.

I believe every girl
should be married.

But it wants a solid base..

...not policemen
and being slashed about, see?

Tile baths and all,
silks and jewels..

That's why I left him.

Now, I'll only start crying,
so give over now.

Say goodbye.

I'll say goodnight.

Goodnight, Ada?

Where you goin', happy face?

Here to see Mr. Mordinoy.

Oh.

Oh, Jim! A customer here.

Oh, Mott.

Now, this is the lad
I was telling you about..

...name of Mott.

Ernie, boy, this is Slush Atley.

- Hello.
- How she go, Ernie boy?

And Cosh Simmons.

He never shakes hands.

Is Ernie a buyer, Jim,
or joining the Riding Academy?

Joining the academy.

He's going to learn a thing
or two off of you, I hope.

Or maybe teach you something.

You can never tell with Mott.

Then, 7 o'clock tomorrow
morning, Ernie boy.

We don't keep
gentlemen's hours here.

- Okey-doke.
- Well..

Better come on and see what's
goin' on around here, Ernie.

- Alright.
- How's Ada?

Don't see her too often,
Mr. Mordin--

'This way, Mott.'

But nothing won't never take the
place of ice, it seems to me.

I would say the same, ma.

Well, I've never seen
nothing to beat this.

Never on land or sea!

Makes its own ice!
Why, that's magic!

Money belongs in the bank,
don't it, ma?

In the bank, that's what.
That's where you want it.

Sticking it up on a wall
or on your back

won't get you nowhere.
Heh-heh.

You'll catch it, my lad, if you
go buying me any presents.

Oh.. Come on, son.

Good evening, Mrs. Mott.

Jealous.

She's jealous!

Clara Tate's a copyrighted nuisance.

Just the smell of her is a meal.

- How's my daughter?
- Splitting headache.

Oh, why don't you go out
in the air and sit with Ike?

I'll bring you out
a glass of stout.

- Hey, where's Nipper?
- Put upstairs for the night.

Happy, ma?

Where'd the money come from,
bought all this?

Money? Where does money
come from, ma?

You earn it, you steal it

you find it,
someone leaves it to you.

Find yours under a tree?

That's it, ma.

'Hope you won't find anymore, son.'

Workin' for Jim now, ain't you?

Down at the club last night.

Doing what?

Can I trust you now?

Do you want me to shout?

Bash me one and get it over with.

I'll shout if you want me to.

Bash me proper, so I don't
never wake up again.

God help us, I don't know
what we're in for, you and me.

Don't you see I love you?

But don't you see you can't
eat your cake and have it too.

It's me or him.

And if it's me, we got to go away.

- Oh, why go away?
- What about him?

He watched me from the balcony
office all the afternoon.

Called me in at suppertime,
yelling away like one o'clock.

I've never seen him
like that before.. Jealous!

On and on, like a piece of music.

- I owe your kiddie a toy.
- What about him?

He pops a few raisins in his
mouth and has us done away with.

Oh, Ada, dear, quiet down.
You talk so wild.

I won't be wild
somewhere far away.

And the sooner we went,
the better.

I'd have my kiddie, you'd have
me. We'd have a future.

Ada, girl...
Rome wasn't built in a day.

It's yes or no, Ernie Mott.
No two ways about it.

What worries you?
My kiddie?

I can leave her with my aunt.

No, it's not your kiddie, Ada.

It's my ma.

She's been took queer.
She's very ill.

I couldn't leave her.

- That's the end, then.
- No.

Give me time to use my brain
and look about.

What's the use of that?

Ada..

Look, it's my birthday tonight.

Just give me a bit of time
for a gift.

See me home, then.

I'm freezing here.

Alright.

Just give me time to think.

Don't be afraid.
Don't be afraid.

He'll want three cars, Cosh boy.

- Done.
- Where's Mott, Jim?

- Don't he go with us?
- That's right. Where is Mott?

I miss anything?

Buy yourself an alarm clock, Mott.

Cosh likes everything in order.

Punctuality is the essence
of our business.

See you all later.

It's skins tonight.

Belnic's Fur Shop
in the Brompton Road.

- Meet here at six.
- Okey-doke.

Better stroll up there
and have a look in daylight.

Okey-doke.

Something in your eye, Mott?

- What?
- Something you wanted to say?

Me? No, not a thing
at the moment.

Oh, cigarette?

Never smoke in
the afternoon, thank you.

Present from me ma.

Mm, platinum?

Silver, she said.

Platinum.

Your ma knows what's what.

As a matter of fact,
something I did want to say.

A friend of mine's in trouble.

- Coppers?
- Girl.

He loves a girl and she loves him.

All happy, then.

No, that's the trouble.

A third party there,
acting like a dog in the manger.

The girl don't like him..

...but he's a big boy

and he's promised to make
enough trouble

for my friend to start a business.

What's your friend's name?

- Name of Ernie.
- Oh, like you.

What's the big boy's name?

Name of Jim, like you.

Well, if your friend's
as good-looking as you..

...what's he want
to get married for?

Waste of time, ain't it?

- 'Jim?'
- What's up, Taz?

I pawned a ruby ring last week
and I went there to get it,

and they say the police took it.

- Why?
- Stolen property, they said.

Is it?

How could it be?

My married sister
gave it to me last year.

The old lark.
It's been worked before.

Tell Slush to warm up a car.
And get Cosh.

Oh, thanks, Jim.
That's great.

Can't treat the family
like that, can they, Mott?

We'll have to go there
and show 'em.

Don't figure you want me
to go along, do you?

But ain't you one of the family
anymore?

Now, then.
What's the matter?

What's your game,
you slimy stink?

What did I do?

Where's my friend's ruby ring?

Here's the ticket,
here's the money.

Now, go and get it.

'Oh, the ring.'

'I give you my solemn oath,
the police took it.'

My Mr. Lesser told you the truth.

The ring was stolen property.

You're a dirty, connivering,
ignorant crook.

Nip over the back, Taz.
You too, Cosh.

Have a look around.

Go with them, Mott.

'Well, Mott, don't take all day.'

Come on, take it, take it!

Here you are.

My fee for coming.

Coo, look at these
beautiful watch chains!

Locked! The key's
what's needed here.

'See anything of my ring yet, Mott?'

Hmm? No, I don't.

I wish my brother was here.
He's missin' all the fun!

Had to wallop the old bloke.

Here it is!
Ask me brother knocker.

The very one me sister gave me.

Lucky boy found his ring.

Oh, come in very handy for the
Sunday collection, this will.

Let's go.

- 'He found it, Jim.'
- 'Yes? Let's see.'

The very one
me married sister gave me.

Your married sister's
got her taste, Taz boy.

Listen, you, didn't you say
the ring was gone?

Your boy lies.

Now, stop that stupidity
and leave my shop.

This one who's still standing,
what do we do with him, Cosh?

I'll show you, Jim.

Oh, my brother's missin' all this.

Watch this, Mott.
Style's everything.

Old Cosh'll learn ya,
won't you, Cosh?

Someone's in line
to get his head tore off!

Now, who's next?
Who wants it next?

Stay where you are, Cosh.

Now, let's get out of here.

Listen, yikyak..

'Open your mouth about this,
and I'll fix you right.'

'And your families, too.'

See?

What happened in there, Mott?

Sort of turned your stomach,
did it?

Think how you'd feel if it was
someone like your friend's girl.

Washing your hands again?

Tenth time you've done it tonight.

Going for a stroll?

Might. Why?

Wish you'd post this for me.
To Ike Weber.

- Ike?
- Don't forget, now.

I want him to price
a lovely antique piece for me.

I shan't forget, ma.

Don't know who that could be.

Come in.

You're in trouble, son.

Mordinoy's right-hand man
is after you.

Marsh Banks heard it downtown
at Collis's place.

Some sort of plan
to slash you about..

You and some girl.

Who's the girl?

Name of Brantline.
Ada Brantline.

Can't say I know the name.

- Former Mrs. Mordinoy.
- Stone the crystal..

Tell you what, Dad..

You wait up at the tunnel.

- Just half a mo'.
- As you say so.

Friend of mine, ma.

Needs some advice
on treating his dog's ears.

- 'Spaniel.'
- Be home late?

'Can't say, ma.'

So long.

Ernie..

Take Nipper with you.

Bye, ma. Hey.

Out of tune. Agonizing.

Jim would like to see you, Mott.

You and Miss Brantline up
in his office.

Who else is up there besides Jim?

Oh, most of us are on our way
to the Lucky Seven Club.

Expect some trouble there,
we all with Bert Mark's boys.

Don't forget Jim.

Almost slipped my mind.

Count you as one of the most
sensible boys

that ever put foot inside a shoe.

Be careful.

Wait around the back, Dad.
Won't be too long.

Very agonizing, love.

Come in.

I think you asked to see me,
Mordinoy.

Fascinating symbols.

You can't beat a machine.

How's the girl, battler?

Been trying to make this girl
nervous for years.

Nigh on impossible, seems.

I don't want to sit down.

Now, why would you want
to make her nervous?

I'm a machine, Mott.
I ain't human.

You can't beat me.

'Believe in astrology, Mott?'

- No.
- Neither do I.

But in April 1912,
the Titanic sank.

Me own father was on her,
polishing brass.

And an old lady told him
it'd sink.

Claimed she had read it
in the stars.

Comin' back to you..

I'll sink you
worse than any Titanic..

...if you don't stop seein' Ada.

See that in the stars?

'I seen it in me mirror.'

An old lady told me something once.

Know some funny stories,
tell them to yourself.

'But what about Ada?'

- What about her?
- The holiday's over.

For both of ya.

I don't want you two
meeting again, see?

That's the way. Appeal to me.

I might be persuaded.
I'm a reasonable man.

Hello?

Well, don't raise the dust,
Rossie.

I'll be down in the club
in 20 minutes.

You understand me, don't you?

Go to the films if it's love
you're looking for.

Personally, I don't believe in it.

What do you believe in?

Nothing. Simple, ain't it?

Nothing in the whole wide world.

And don't appeal to me.
I won'tbe persuaded.

First thing in the morning,
we're taking out

the marriage license.

Are we?

I wonder what the weatherman
promises for tomorrow?

Likely, rain.
Followed by suicide in bed.

Let's get out of here.

Dad?

Verdun.

Nothing stirring out here,
not a mouse.

Dad, I'd like you to meet the
future Mrs. Ernest Verdun Mott.

So this is the future Mrs. EVM.

Well... stone the crystal palace.

I'm for it.

Stay right here.

It wants a cab, don't it?
I should say so.

Don't be nervous, beetles.

Up to your knees in dreams,
aren't you?

We're starting off tomorrow
with five or six pounds

and a sunny personality.

Are we?

Supposin' I went off with Jim?

What a thing to say.

Supposin' I flew off
to the North Pole?

I don't know
what I'm saying anymore.

Ernie, dear, why don't we
go away somewhere.

Just the two of us?
Please?

'Verdun.'

Right, Dad.

Ernie, please.

Couldn't do it, Ada.

Get in there, Nipper.

Now, you go with Ada.

Nothing will harm you
while the dog's with you.

Dad, you go with her, too,
would you?

- Pleasure.
- Where you off to?

Something to be said to Mordinoy
couldn't be said in front of ladies.

Every time you kiss me,
it gets deeper.

Does it?

See you in the morning.

How many cartridges did you want?

Eight or ten will be enough.

- Lend us your newspaper.
- Yeah.

Careful going out.

Leave it to me.

Oh, Mott?

Ah, the brothers Jones.
Good evening.

No offense about anything, I hope.

Nice car. Steal it?

Picked it up in Newman Street.

We're on our way down to the club.

Uh-huh.
Meeting Jim down there?

Yes. Bags of sport
down there tonight.

I'm in the mood for sport tonight.

Don't you want
to sit in the front?

I'll be more comfortable
back here.

Been a long day, ain't it?

That's just what I was thinking.

Watch the red light, Taz.

Coppers up, Taz!
Right behind us!

- You're crazy.
- He's right. It's a police car.

Spread 'em, Taz!
Don't spare the horses!

Any bets I can't lose them
inside five minutes?

The tunnel's comin'.

Car 73, pull over.

I can't get any more out of it.
Me foot's flat on the floor now.

All traffic stop immediately.
This is a police car.

You ain't lost them, Taz!

I'll wear my granny's hat
if I can't.

We're gaining on them, Taz!

They got too much weight with them!

'We might do it yet.'

You done them again.
Proper stone cold, you have.

They always lose out in the stretch.
I've noticed it before, I have.

Blimey..

Get the rear door open.

Here, you! You hurt?

Come on out.
I want all of you.

I got him.

Hold onto him!

Get me brother out.
He's hurt.

'Come on. Step lively.
Step lively!'

- Get me brother out!
- Come on..

He's in there!
He's hurt!

'Get me brother out!'

'He's in there!
He's hurt!'

Get me brother out!

Get off of the petrol,
the tank's catching on fire!

Please, get him out!

'Please let me get him!'

Let me get him!
Please!

- Let me get him!
- Quiet, knocker!

- Please!
- Quiet. Quiet.

I'm sorry.
Somebody had to do that.

Come on. Bring him along.

Come on.

E Flat.

Well, what have we here?

None of your cheap,
nasty silver or gold, eh?

Platinum.

Just the bare platinum.

'You still wouldn't care
to say a word or two?'

'Either of you?'

A little postcard.

Not posted.

'Addressed to I. Weber, Esquire.'

'Well, we'll soon find out
who you are, my lad.'

Lucas, ring up this Mr. Weber.

I'll talk to him.

Yes, sir.

Ike... paid the bail, did you?

I shan't forget you, nor will ma.

Everything with a kiss.

- How's Mr. Lesser?
- In the hospital.

I stood your bail for 100 pounds.

You'll have to be
at Bow Street in the court

day after tomorrow, 9:15.

Listen, Mr. Mott..

...you're frying yourself
in your own fat.

Do you realize that?

You'll need a few quid
for incidentals.

One's enough.
Thanks again.

And no matter what anyone says..

...your mother
is a wonderful woman.

No sign of him yet?

No.

Who's going to tell him,
me or you?

Don't know.

Stale as an old debt, they are.

Try these, then.

They're just as worse.
My eyes tell me.

Me whole stock ain't stale, is it?

Dessay it is.

Here he is now!
Ern! Ernie!

Come in son, come in.

What's this? A gathering
of the clan? Nipper.

Where you been all night?

Why?
Ma worried about me?

We been in a right stew
about you, all of us we have.

Friend of yours back here
dropped in, I... don't know why.

'Eating through me stock'

'like a flock of mice on wheels,
he is.'

Off with your wet coat.
There, let's have you.

Just brought the dog back here,
Verdun.

Your ma's gone out for a bit.

Where have you been, Ern?

Oh, just seeing how
the other half lives.

Where'd she go?

Nice egg and a sausage left over
if you care to take it.

Where did ma go, Aggie?

- Where is she?
- 'Sit down, son?'

Put your feet up.

What happened?

What happened?

Well... I'm in bed, and a..

"And a" what?

A copper comes along
and gets me out..

...to go down your house
with him.

So down I goes, and there's
a dozen of them there.

- Dozen who?
- Coppers.

Your ma's just sitting there
letting them have

the run of the house.

She can't explain your...
cigarette case, where it's from.

And they find some other stuff.

What stuff?

Stuff dragged out of cupboards.

What about ma?

Your ma told me to tell you,
"don't worry, see?"

"Don't worry, see?"
Yes, but, where is she?

They took her in with
Mrs. Snowden and the others.

Poor girls.

Done me nails four times today.

Biggest shoplifting gang
this side of the river

a copper said.

They got her inside, you mean?

Pinched?

Life is a queer little man.

There's a smell
to these sort of places.

An official sort of smell.

Follow him.
He'll take you down there.

You've got ten minutes.

Be here when you come back,
Verdun boy.

Hey, what's this?

Why, your old girl's
in the hospital here.

Don't you know that?

She is?

Uh, the sister will tell you
everything, I expect.

How much time do they give her?

It might be tonight...
might be a week.

Mrs. Mott?

Here's your son to see you.

Just ten minutes...'cause
you mustn't upset yourself.

How's me daughter?

Hello, Ernie.
Where you come from?

'Just thought I'd pop in,
have a look at you.'

Raining out?

Wet as water.

See Ike this morning?

Yes.

What I can't understand, ma,
is what are you in here for?

What's the matter with you?

Tired out.

Machinery rundown, you know?

If you get into any trouble,
see Ike.

Been a good friend to me.

Well, don't be in here long, ma.

I'm gonna get married,
don't forget.

That's right.

Find a nice girl
to look after you.

A good girl.

- Yes, ma.
- 'Something steady.'

Nothing cheap..

...with a head on her shoulders.

Love me, son?

Disgraced you.

Disgraced me, ma?
No, ma.

No disgrace to me, ma.

This is your son, Ernie Mott..

...the boy who needs you,
loves you, wants you!

Outside now.

I'll be back tomorrow, ma.

Be quiet and get
a good night's sleep.

I see in the paper
that a man in Putney

has a dog that brings home
a tennis ball each day.

I wonder where he gets it.

What you thinking, Verdun boy?

I'd best be off to Ada's.

She's expecting me
and she'll be worried.

Got a nice toy
for her kiddie here.

She gave me that to give
to you last night.

Ada did.

Read it, Dad.

"Dear, Ernie Mott..

"I just couldn't face it
for your sake and mine..

"...I'm going back with Jim.

"The only other choice
is to make our bed in the river

"and that is something
I could not face.

"I tried to do different, but
it's best this way all around.

"I hope and pray you will
forgive and forget, Ernie Mott.

"Sincerely, Ada Brantline.

P.S. Please excuse paper."

Stand back.

Let the man see the rabbit.

Hm... stopped raining.

What are you thinking, Verdun boy?

I'm dreaming, Dad.

Dreaming the better man.

What a go.
What a rum go it is.

Where's that clean human life
the books tell us about?

When's the world
coming out of its midnight?

When does the human soul
get off his knees?

'I'm too old, Verdun,
to tell you that.'

Something shuddering
in the air these days.

Ever notice it, son?

Yes, I have, Dad.

Sometimes late at night,
I hear it.

A shuddering echo.

And I hear it say, "Wake up!"

"The world needs happiness!"

'Well, the world finds something
if it needs it bad enough.'

But sometimes, it takes a war.

So, if there's a better world
to be made..

...you young ones
will have to make it.

That's it, Dad.

One thing's left.

I can see it plain as London town.

Fight with the men who'll fight

for a human way of life.

I should say so.

Me feet killing me.

Well... here's where I leave you.

Leave me?

You will never leave me,
you lopsided old muggins.

Well, see you sooner.

How sooner?

Who knows?

It's all written in the book.

Bye, Dad.