Original subtitles

[Captioning sponsored by Artisan Entertainment]

Radio newscaster: This is the Australian Broadcasting Commission.

And now the news.

Japanese forces continue their heavy attack

on the Philippines and Dutch East Indies.

Occupation of Manila is now complete

with American and Philippine forces

(explosion) under the command of General MacArthur

withdrawing to the Bataan Peninsula.

His Majesty's forces are carrying out

an orderly evacuation of the New Guinea coast

in preparation for defense of Port Moresby and the southern...

ah. Yeah, yeah, ye

?? I got me ten fine toe s to wiggle in the sand ??

? ?? Lots of idle fing ers snap to my command ?

? ?? A lovely pair of heels that kick to beat the band ?

) (explosion

? ?? Contemplating nat ure can be fascinating ?

?? ?? And, you'd reason , knows that I can bum

?? ?? Hand 'em out, by gum, have I

?? ?? To tell the whole damn world

t ?? ?? If you don't happen to like it, deal me ou

?? ?? Thank you kindly

y ?? ?? Pass me b

?? Pass me by ??

?? Pass me by ??

?? If you don't happen to like it, pass me by. ??

Hey, hey, hey.

(explosion)

(harmonica solo)

(humming)

(explosions continue)

(whistling "Pass Me By")

Here, just a minute.

Where do you think you're going with those, hmm?

am? Do you know who I

Um, not exactly, no.

Well, we'll let it go this time.

nd. Yes, sir. I understa

Salamaua will be cleared by noon the latest.

Nothing left that the Japanese will be able to use, sir.

Sir, there's a chap outside who...

May I respectfully remind the admiral

that I was harbor master here for nearly 20 years.

I helped put the docks together

so I should certainly be able to blow them apart.

Sir, there's a chap outside

who's pinching our petrol...

l Yes, sir, all our coasta

watching stati ons are assigned, except, uh...

Matalava, sir.

ir. Except Matalava, s

I haven't been able

to find a replacement for Anderson.

I don't believe there's a civilian left

on the entire north coast.

d We could h ave transferre

ior George Dickens from the inter

. if he hadn't got himself eaten that way

You needn't make him sound such a shirker, Stebbings.

What's that, sir?

For want of a nail, the war was...

Yes, I'm well aware of that, sir.

Hello, hello, hello.

r. I think I ma y have found our nail, si

A rusty one, I grant you, sir

er. but they don't come any sharp

. Excuse me, sir

Sir, that's the chap I was telling you about.

He was...

Later, Stebbings.

Who is he, sir?

Is he someone I should know?

His name's Walter Eckland, an American.

He knows these islands like the back of his hand.

Oh.

Oh, well, now that America's in the war

. he's probably on his way back to enlist

Eckland's not on his way anywhere, Stebbings.

Hasn't been for years.

(humming)

Hello, Walter.

(stops humming)

Frank!

That you inside there, Frank?

What have you done to yourself?

There's a war on, Walter.

Everybody's saying that.

At the moment, we're losing it.

Guess you must be.

Cheek of the man.

) (whistling

That's quite a boat you hav e there, Walter.

Doesn't it belong to old Vanderhoeven?

No.

en? Whose is it th

Mine.

? How did you get it

I bought it from old Vanderhoeven.

h? What wit

American dollars.

You've never had more than $200 at one time

since I've known you, Walter.

u You can't tell me th at Vanderhoeven sold yo

an $18,000 lau nch for $200.

No. It cost me $400.

?! $400

You know, that's exactly the way he said it.

Only I pointed out to him he might as well sell it to me

than let the Japanese have it for free.

. What impresses me, Walter, is the fact that you even had $400

Well, I didn't.

I only had $200, just as you said.

I owe him the rest.

Well, come along.

Lend a hand.

Come on.

Empty hands make idle minds.

Here, pick those up.

No, no, no, no.

Two. Come on.

?? Contemplating nature can be fascinating... ??

? You know what the coast watching service is, Walter

I beg your pardon?

ce? The coast watching servi

It's a chance to become a hero.

Why would I want to do that?

It's a cushy assignment

for anyone who knows these waters intimately.

With never a dull moment, I can tell you.

Working behind the enemy lines

No, no. Stebbings. not knowing from one moment to the next...

Please.

me. Walter, listen to

There's nothin g to it, really.

Each man is assigned an island, often uninhabited.

He stays there alone and he radios to headquarters

any movement of Japanese

ps. planes or shi

? You're not listening to me, are you, Walter

Hold it, hold it.

Hey, hey! Hey, hey!

Come on. Beat it!

Scram! Come on!

Get off!

Did you hear what I was saying?

No. What were you saying?

About the coast watchers.

Matalava will be in the center of things

when the Japanese start moving towards New Guinea.

It's important work, Walter.

Damned important.

I'd like you to volunteer.

Oh, I'd love to, Frank

but I've only just volunteered

for another important watching service--

The Watch Out For Walter Eckland service.

A great many liv es are at stake, Mr. Eckland.

Now, listen to me, both of you.

Several years ago, I made peace with the world.

Now, if the world isn't bright enough

to make peace with itself

it'll have to settle things without me.

It isn't anything permanent, Walter.

It's just until I find a replacement for you.

The other man went down with fever

and we had to take him off.

Well, now, Frank, you've known me a long time.

Do you really think you're going to talk me into it?

No, I suppose not.

Stebbings, confiscate all the small craft on this pier.

But this is the only one there is, sir.

Confiscate it.

Frank, you won't get away with that.

Proceed with your orders, Stebbings.

ir. Aye-aye, s

Frank, you can't do this to me!

I'll go over your head.

Who's in charge here? He is.

Frank, you can't do this to me.

That boat's all I have.

You said we've been friends

for a long time, Walter.

Do you really think you can talk me out of it?

If I go to Matalava, I can keep the boat, right?

Mmm.

Well, there's no use fighting it.

ff? What time do I shove o

An hour be all right?

Anything you say, Frank.

. You're the skipper

Hey, buddy, lend me a hand with those cans.

I'll get on board.

m Uh, sir, you don 't really expect hi

to go to Matalav a, do you, sir?

bor As soon as he clears har

n. we'll never see him agai

Where's your faith in human nature, Stebbings?

(humming)

Oh, yeah.

(explosion)

Good heavens!

What is it?

He...

he made a gesture, sir.

(shouting): You set a fine course, there, Walter.

My compliments.

Yeah.

I should have led you up on the reef.

It's a sorry day when a man's friends don't trust him.

What about all those provisions?

You don't suppose that boat of yours could carry them?

Frank, I want you to take all those provisions

and I want you to...

Hey! Be careful

with that.

We'll be at King's Point in Australia.

When you call us, we want you to use the following code:

King's Point is "Briar Patch."

I'm "Big Bad Wolf."

Stebbings here is "Bo-Peep."

And you're...

"Mother Goose," sir.

That's it-- you're "Mother Goose!"

Now, try to remember all that, Walter.

It's bloody important.

Yeah-- bloody.

All right, then.

Good-bye, Mother Goose.

"Mother Goose."

(chuckling)

Let's get underway, Stebbings.

Sir, it has occurred to me that as soon as we've gone

Mr. Eckland might...

Proceed, Stebbings.

Hard to port.

All right, sir. Coxswain, hard...

Excuse me, sir, but, uh, did you say...?

Hard to port, son.

Aye, aye, sir.

Coxswain, hard to port.

Hey, hold it, hold it!

Are you crazy?!

Look out! Look out, Frank!

Did you hear me?

Hard to starboard, Frank!

Hold it now! Watch out!

Oh, you've gone nuts!

Look out. Frank, can you hear me?

Hold it!

Starboard, you English, silly son of a...

(crash)

Oh, great!

Have you lost your minds?

Look at my boat!

Terribly sorry, Walter.

Our steering must have jammed.

I'm sorry.

If you didn't know how to work one of those things

why didn't you say so?!

I'm sorry.

Oh, stop saying that! Look at my boat!

What am I going to do now?!

Become a coastwatcher, I expect.

Lucky we put all those supplies ashore.

Oh, Walter?

We'll stand by until you get safely in.

Frank, I'll sue you!

I'll sue!

I'll sue the entire war!

Quite right, Walter!

I'll be your witness.

Oh, and Walter?

Thanks for volunteering.

(bird squawking)

Oh, come on. Buzz off.

(engines droning)

(squawking)

(loud, shrill squawking)

(sighing)

Houghton: Mother Goose?

Frank!

I knew you wouldn't leave me here!

Mother Goose, this is Big Bad Wolf.

Go away.

I know you're saying something, Mother Goose

but I can't hear you.

You've got to flip the key.

I said go away.

You're still not coming through, Mother Goose.

There's a button on the microphone.

You have to press it down while you're speaking.

(belching)

Can you hear me now?

That's better.

You'll find some charts there, Walter

identifying enemy ships and aircraft.

Study them, will you?

Oh, sure.

Have you seen anything yet?

Any planes or ships?

Yes, a plane.

Ours or theirs?

Kind of depends which side you're on, doesn't it?

Walter, news has just come through

that the Japanese took Singapore this morning.

Frank...

(clearing throat)

What keeps them from taking Walter Eckland?

We've 32 spotters spread over 3,000 islands.

So, you see, the odds are in our favor

that you'll never be found.

Ourfavor?

You're not stuck out here in the middle of nowhere-- I am!

Now, when do I get off?

I've told you--

as soon as we can find a replacement for you.

Meantime, be good enough to keep in touch, Walter.

Oh, and I am sorry about your boat.

I really am.

Is Big Bad Wolf really sorry?

Because if he is, Big Bad Wolf and Little Bo Peep

can do something for Mother Goose.

They can go...

(chuckling)

I don't really blame him, do you?

I can't see that we've accomplished anything, sir.

I don't think he'll report in.

I mean, you can lead a horse to water

but can you make it drink?

When he gets thirsty enough, he'll drink, Stebbings.

He'll drink.

Frank, can you hear me?

Frank?

Loud and clear, Mother Goose.

What is it?

Where'd those men of yours put the whiskey?

I've been looking all over this dump.

You don't suppose they kept it for themselves, do you?

Seamen of His Majesty's Navy?

You must be joking.

Yeah, yeah, yeah. Where is it?

Well, I can imagine how dull it must get

for someone left all alone on a small island

so I decided...

All right. All right.

Get to the bad news.

Well, I decided to liven things up a bit

by making a sort of fun and game thing out of it.

What sort of fun and games?

I had my men hide all the bottles around the island.

In very unlikely places.

You'd never find them by yourself.

The ground rules are simple.

You report an enemy ship or plane movement

and I tell you where the bottles are.

One report, one bottle.

Um, um, hold it a minute, Frank.

I hear a flight going over right now.

Yeah, isn't that odd?

Now just a minute while I get the binoculars.

Oh, yes, there's six, seven, eight of them

heading south.

They're, uh, uh, Nakajima 97s.

But just a minute while I verify that

on one of these little old charts.

Walter, there is another rule attached to this.

It has to be a confirmed report.

"Confirmed"? Confirmed how?

By other spotters along the line.

(chuckles)

Now just tell me

what all those planes were that you saw, hmm?

(aircraft approaching)

(whistles)

(whistling)

(humming)

Frank!

Frank! Frank!

Frank, wake up, Frank!

Frank?!

Briar Patch here, Mother Goose.

Bo Peep speaking.

"Briar Patch"? What's that?

That's a new one, isn't it?

We've moved.

Oh, you're at King's Point already?

Listen, Mother Goose, you must use the code names.

If you don't like it, fire me.

Now get Houghton.

The regulations say...

Frank here, Walter.

Mother Goose, sir.

What's new?

Five Mitsubishi light bombers

at around 10,000, headed southwest.

Southwest at ten thou.

Got it, sport.

Thanks.

Now, wait a minute. Whoa!

It's fun and game time now.

I played the game, how about the fun?

Confirmed, Walter, remember?

But Frank, I swear.

Well, in that case

you have nothing to worry about, have you?

Sit tight, Mother Goose.

"Sit tight. Sit tight."

(Morse code beeping)

Briar Patch here.

Are you there, Mother Goose?

I'm here, Frank! I'm here!

I'm here!

We've just received news

that your report has been confirmed.

Congratulations.

Never mind the congratulations.

Where is it?

(chuckles)

Proceed 50 yards east

northeast to a large rock

then 20 yards due east to a coconut palm."

No, no. Not so fast. Not so fast.

Wait a minute. "Large rock..."

20 yards due east to a coconut palm.

(squawks)

Sir.

Sorry to disturb you at this hour, sir

but we've heard from Humpty-Dumpty.

Oh, come on, Stebbings.

You can tell me.

Who's Humpty Dumpty?

(quietly): Perry on Bundy Island.

He reports enemy landings here on Desfare

here and here on Greater and Lesser Tomango

and here on Prince Concert.

They've ringed him in pretty well, haven't they?

He says they don't know that he's there yet

but he expects somebody along at any time now

and requests to be withdrawn.

Well, combat can't spare a thing, Stebbings.

All our planes and ships are committed.

Who's our nearest man?

I'm afraidheis, sir.

Stebbings: Briar Patch calling Mother Goose.

Come in, Mother Goose.

Briar Patch calling Mother Goose.

Come in, Mother Goose.

Do you read me, Mother Goose?

This is Briar Patch.

Do you read me, Mother Goose?

Yes, yes, I read you.

What's even worse, I can hear you.

Now what do you want?

Walter, I haven't been sleeping too well

because I've treated you so badly

so I'm going to make it up to you.

Whatever it is, Frank, the answer is no.

I don't blame you, sport.

I don't blame you at all.

I'm not listening, Frank.

But supposing I got someone to repair your boat for you?

I'm listening, Frank.

And after it's repaired

to stay on there as your replacement?

Who is he?

Malcolm Perry. He's one of our regulars.

When can he be here?

Tonight too soon?

No, Frank. Tonight's just fine.

Just fine.

There's just one small thing.

Uh-oh.

He's not able to get to you, so you'll have to go and fetch him.

From where, Frank?

Bundy Island.

Bundy?!

How do you suggest I get there, Frank?

Well, that launch of yours has a dinghy, hasn't it?

All those miles of open sea and back again

in a seven-foot dink?!

You're nuts!

(chuckles)

Shall I call him back, sir?

No, no.

Frank?!

Yes, Walter?

Suppose I could make it to Bundy.

Where would I put in, the south jetty?

That's right.

Only be careful.

There's a pretty fair moon tonight.

You got some special reason for telling me that, Frank?

No. Only it's a bit better without a moon.

Why, Frank?

Well, Bundy's liable to be occupied.

With what, Frank?

I didn't say it would be.

Frank?

Yes, Walter?

Kiss my foot, Frank.

(chuckles)

If he leaves within the hour

he should make Bundy just after dark.

But, sir, you heard what he said.

He won't go to Bundy.

Frank?!

Yes, Walter.

All those miles of open sea

a man would need something to keep warm, wouldn't he?

Two bottles.

All of them, Frank.

Three.

All of them, Frank.

Five.

All of them, Frank.

Got a pencil?

Number four is ten yards west of the shack under a mango.

Five is 30 paces from there, due north in a stunted palm.

Just a second. Slow it down.

Number six is...

Perry?

(glass clatters)

(clicking button)

(silence)

(yelps)

Who are you?

I...

I asked you first.

Where's Perry?

Who's Perry?

Perry, the man who lives here.

I buried him.

He was dead!

I found him here.

A Japanese plane must have attacked the house.

How did you get here?

I...

Duck!

They've passed by before.

I think they're landing

on the other side of the island.

What makes you think that? Well, I saw them.

If you want to look, there's a place over there.

Why would I do a silly thing like that?

Come on. Let's get out of here.

Do you have a boat?

No, I walked.

Come on.

Come on. We're leaving now.

Huh?

Look out.

Come on, look out.

Just a...

Just...

What... what are all those?

As you can see, they're young ladies.

Now, listen, Miss...

Whatever your name is.

Oh. Freneau. Catherine Freneau.

Charmed.

Now, suppose you tell me...

What is your name?

Uh, Eckland.

How do you do? How do you do?

Now, Miss, I don't know

what this is all about, but...

Please, Miss...

Miss?

Shh.

Where is your boat?

I can't see it.

Lady, it's right where we're standing.

If you spit, you'd sink it.

Oh, dear.

Oh, well.

I suppose we'll just have to manage.

Come on, girls, into the boat.

Wait, wait, wait, wait a minute.

Hold it.

Everybody settle down.

You don't think they're all going to fit in that?

All right, Mr. Eckland

which ones do you suggest we leave behind?

You decide.

I'll leave it to you.

It's suicide.

Would you stand a better chance without me?

Naturally.

Very well.

Well, I suggest you leave immediately.

Well, that's really very decent of you.

You're a very good sport.

Thank you.

Now, the rest of you snap it up.

All right.

Jenny, you're the smallest.

Sit in the back.

You'll be out of the way.

Do you mind, lady?

This is my boat, such as it is.

If anyone's going to sink her, it'll be me.

Now, I'll seat them.

You sit in the back.

Give it to me.

Let it go.

Mr. Eckland.

This is not theQueen Mary.

There's no room for baggage.

Come on, you.

My glasses.

I don't want to go.

Oh, that's tough.

Come here.

Please take your hand off that.

All right.

My scent.

Huh?

Scent.

It's called Anticipation.

Two pounds ten the ounce.

You don't say.

All right.

Now sit there.

That's right.

Take you hands off that.

(yells)

What is that thing?

A cricket bat.

Isn't it a smasher?

Yeah, a smasher. I only hope you all can swim.

Take your hand off that.

Now, you two, get in the bottom of the boat.

Get in the bottom of the boat.

They don't understand English.

Sure they do.

See?

(yells)

Please.

All right.

Now, I guess that's about all.

Don't forget Gretchen.

What?

Don't forget Gretchen.

Oh, that's her friend.

I'll help her in, dear.

Would you mind?

Oh...

Now, then, Mr. Eckland, I suggest you leave immediately.

Oh, lady, lady, do you mind?

Just get in the boat.

Well, you said it would...

I don't care what I said.

If, by some miracle, we do make it

I'd be stuck with them.

Now, get in the boat.

All right.

Come on.

That's right.

No, no, no, no!

Not that.

We'd have had a use for that.

Come on. Come on.

(girls squealing)

Now, don't be afraid.

Quiet, quiet.

Mr. Eckland, please keep the boat quiet.

The girls are extremely frightened.

Will you shut up, lady?

Now, here, get off my paddle.

Well, I'm terribly sorry

but you put it there in the first place, you know.

Now, that's all right, children, don't be scared.

There we go.

Mr. Eckland...

Must you?

What are you, some kind of religious fanatic?

I couldn't care less what you do to yourself

but must you do it in front of the children?

No.

Well, then.

Well, then, tell them to turn around.

That is not exactly what I had in mind, Mr. Eckland.

Now, lady...

The name is Freneau. Catherine Freneau.

I don't know what you had in mind.

I don't even know who you are

or what you were doing on that island.

Well, if you must know

an American plane left us there.

We were on our way from New Britain...

I want to go home.

Oh, Anne, it's rude to interrupt.

We were on our way from New Britain to Port Moresby

when the pilot was ordered to pick up eight survivors

of a Australian bomber that had crashed in the water.

Unfortunately...

Hey, you, take that bat

or whatever it is out of the water.

It's acting like a rudder.

Harriet, really.

The name's Harry.

All right, Harry.

He said he'd try and come and pick us later

but that was five hours ago, and he...

Quiet.

You don't have to be so rude.

Quiet, I think I hear something.

(rumbling)

Duck.

What? What's the matter?

Put your heads down. Do as I tell you.

Keep your faces covered.

Harry, keep your face down.

Are they Japanese?

I don't know.

Do you want me to ask?

Hold on.

We've got to ride out the wake.

Girl: We're sinking.

Well, don't just sit there, damn it, bail.

Mr. Eckland, your language. Really.

Just bail. Do as I say.

Come on, you can move faster than that.

Come on, all of you, Use your hands... anything.

Come on, keep bailing.

Faster.

Bail!

Why aren't you?

Come on now, get to work.

Go on.

That's better.

Hold on to the boat, Harry.

Hold on.

Hang on to the boat.

Well, really.

Come on, girls.

All right, come on.

Come on, Anne.

King's Point, get Houghton.

Is that you, Mother Goose?

Walter, I can't tell you how delighted I am.

Oh, you've Mother Goosed me for the last time.

What are you talking about?

Now don't play stupid with me.

You'd sell out your own father if you knew who he was.

(clattering)

(girls speaking French)

Walter, what happened? Walter?

Frank, get them off of here.

Get who off?

You know who.

Get them off.

No one could have known we were there, Mr. Eckland.

The radio was destroyed.

Will you please stay out of this, lady?

Freneau: I'm only trying to...

Eckland: I'm quite capable of handling this myself, thank you.

Girl 1: I'm hungry.

Girl 2: So am I.

Walter, what's...?

(girls shouting)

Walter, who's...?

Walter!

Thank you.

Now, suppose you tell me who's there?

Well...

I am Miss Catherine Freneau.

Who is this, please?

Commander Frank Houghton of His Majesty's Navy.

Who are you, Miss Freneau

and what are you doing there?

I'd like to hear that myself. Go ahead.

I am the daughter of Charles Freneau

the French Consul at Rabaul.

I heard children's voices.

Yes.

I am in charge of seven students

from the consulate school.

Four English, two French, one Australian

all of them daughters of diplomatic personnel.

When the bombing started

it was decided to evacuate them to Australia.

Unfortunately, the plane our group was on

put us down at Bundy

and now Mr. Eckland has been kind enough to bring us here.

What about Malcolm Perry?

Well, I'm sorry, Commander.

The house apparently had been attacked from the air

and when we found him...

Oh, I'm sorry.

Commander, how soon

do you think you'll be able to...

arrange for our transportation?

I'd like to hear that as well, yeah.

That's a difficult question to answer, Miss Freneau.

If you'll just be a little patient...

Oh, never mind their patience, Frank.

It's my patience.

Get them off of here.

All right, Walter, I'll take it to the top.

Stand by.

Stand by.

If you're waiting for the big finale, I'm sorry.

This is all I do.

Oh, son of a...!

Mr. Eckland.

(girls laughing)

I'm bleeding.

Mr. Eckland, we could all do with some food.

Elizabeth, you and Harry open some tins.

And Christine and Jenny, find the knives, forks and napkins.

That'll be a good trick-- napkins.

(speaking French)

Both: Oui, Mademoiselle.

Hey, what are...

Be careful.

What are you doing with those?

(speaking French)

Mr. Eckland, where are your tea things?

My what?

Your tea things.

Last time I looked

they were next to the finger bowls.

Hey, hey, be careful with that!

Didn't I tell you that...?

Oh, it's an empty.

Houghton: Are you standing by, Walter?

All set to go, Frank.

What did you work out?

A parachute drop.

A what?

They've got to be picked up, Frank

not put down.

We thought you could do with more provisions

what with all those extra mouths.

I want their mouths out of here.

When are you coming for them?

Well, that's rather difficult to say.

Well, try saying today.

I don't think it'll be today, Walter.

Well, what's making that parachute drop, a seagull?

We can only manage a night drop.

There's no way to land.

Frank, you still haven't said

when you're going to get them off.

No, I haven't, have I?

Two or three weeks.

Two or three...

Four.

Four?

With luck.

We'll have to stay here a month?

I don't want to stay here.

Well, Frank, you've slipped it to me again, haven't you?

I'm sorry, Walter, there's a war on.

Oh, stop saying that.

Commander, would you be so kind

as to contact my father in Rabaul

and have him inform the parents of the girls

that they're quite safe?

All civilian personnel are being evacuated

from New Britain, Miss Freneau.

But I'll see to it that they're informed.

Signing off.

Three or four weeks.

I heard it. I heard that.

Mr. Eckland, may I speak with you

outside for a moment?

Some other time.

I've been up all night.

I'm going to bed.

Girls, go outside and play.

But stay close to the house.

Yeah, tell them to stay off the beach

or out in the open.

Mr. Eckland.

Yes, sir.

It now appears likely

we'll remain here together for some time to come.

Mm-hmm.

This being the case

I think it would be wise of us

to arrive at an understanding.

It must be quite clear to you

that the children must be our first consideration.

Your first consideration.

I'm my first consideration.

They are young...

Look out.

...sensitive and impressionable.

So am I.

They've been through a most trying experience

and they will need a normal, orderly routine established

and I would expect you to do your share.

Oh, sure, sure.

It was quite one thing for you to live

as you did when you were alone on this island

but you are no longer alone

and your behavior is totally unsuitable.

Your language is common

your eating habits revolting.

Oh, yes?

Your appearance disgraceful

and as for your drinking, that must stop immediately.

I will not have the children subjected to it.

You are, after all

the only man with whom they'll come in contact.

That makes you the father figure.

Are you finished?

Yes.

Good.

Let me tell you something.

I am not a father figure.

I am not an uncle figure

or a brother figure or a cousin figure.

In fact, that only figure I intend being

is a total stranger figure.

So now, if you'll excuse me, I'm going to bed.

I'm now supposed to cover my eyes

and run screaming from the room?

You'll be disappointed.

Isn't she a pip?

I doubt very much anything you could do would shock me.

Let me repeat: My only concern is for the children.

Well, why don't you

go and concern yourself with them

and let me get some sleep.

Gladly, as soon as you've told me where we will stay.

Stay anywhere you like.

Well, as this hovel seems to be

the only shelter on the island

it's obvious we will have to stay here.

You know what fat chance means?

This is my hovel

so why don't you back out and let me get some sleep.

Very well.

(sighing)

(grunts)

Oh, for...

(loud pounding and clattering)

What... what... what...

(screaming in French)

Lady, you are making a powerful enemy.

Girls, let's get in.

(engines droning)

(humming jaunty tune)

(whistling)

(girls screaming)

You ought to be ashamed of yourselves.

A gentleman simply does not enter a room

where ladies are not decent.

Well, you learn something every day.

I have to use the radio! It...

Freneau: All right, Mr. Eckland.

You may come in now.

Oh.

Didn't you want to use the radio?

Uh...

Yes, radio.

Yes... what's it doing over here?

King's point, this is Eckland.

Six Mitsu 104s heading east at 10,000.

Message received, Mother Goose.

Message received.

Are you looking for something, Mr. Eckland?

I asked you to stop drinking

but you wouldn't.

Oh, no.

Where is it?

Somewhere where you won't find it.

Gone again.

Of all the meddlesome... Oh!

Come on, now, where is it?

You got it up here?

(groaning)

Wait!

Oh, you wait! You just wait!

King's point, this is Eckland again.

Hello, Mother Goose.

This is Briar Patch.

Get Houghton, on the double.

Big Bad Wolf is engaged.

I don't care if he's married.

You get him!

You know, lady

you missed your calling.

You ought to carry a tambourine

and put fig leaves on statues.

Houghton: What is it, Walter?

Frank, now, this is a military zone

and you're in command.

You tell Miss Goody Two-Shoes here to get off my back.

Goody Two-Shoes?

Yes, you tell her!

Tell her she's a pain in the...

Uh, please, Walter, be civil.

Civil?

Who pushed who out of whose home?

Who stole whose liquor?

Who bit whose hand? Twice.

She bit you?

Yes.

Miss Freneau?

No! Now, you tell her...

you tell her to give me back my booze.

You tell her to butt out!

You tell her...

All right, Walter, I'll speak to her.

Yeah, here.

Yes?

Miss Freneau, I'm sure you've noticed

that Mr. Eckland is not the most sociable sportsman...

Mr. Eckland is a rude, foul-mouthed

drunken, filthy beast.

Well, be that as it may...

This is the filthy beast speaking.

Now, listen, Frank

when you send those supplies

send plenty of whiskey. Plenty...

I insist you do nothing of the kind, Commander.

Now be quiet, both of you.

We've arranged for the parachute drop

to take place tomorrow night at 2200.

I suggest, therefore, if you want anything at all

you better give me a list of your needs.

Whiskey!

Yes, we know about you.

What about Miss Freneau and the girls?

Girl 1: Formal clothes!

Magazines! Peppermint drops.

Glass of chocolate! (speaking French)

Tennis clothes!

Bow and arrow!

Girls, please!

I have prepared a list.

Now, hold it.

You've taken over everything else

but the radio is still my responsibility.

Eight nighties.

Would you repeat that, Walter?

Mr. Eckland isn't here anymore, Commander.

I'll give you the list.

Eight nighties.

Nighties?

That is correct, in various sizes

starting with children's size six.

And would you please make that one a bunny suit?

A what?

A bunny suit.

I'm sure you've seen them, Commander.

You know, with the hands and feet.

With... the hands and feet.

Mother Goose!

Monsieur Eckland?

Big Bad Wolf is calling you on the wireless.

Oh.

Don't touch anything.

In fact, you better get off the boat.

Get a shirt and his pants.

Oh, look at this!

Oh, look.

Good morning.

Uh, I'm wanted on the radio.

Uh...

Oh... oh...

Hey, King's Point, this is Eckland.

Come in, Mother Goose.

This is Briar Patch.

Well, you had something to tell me.

Big Bad Wolf had a message for you

concerning the parachute drop.

Gave it to Goody Two-Shoes.

Oh, the...

Um, Commander Houghton couldn't wait.

He asked me to give you the message.

Well?

Well, what?

The message.

What message?

The message message.

Oh, oh-- that message.

Oh, I wrote it down for you.

That's in French.

Oh, is it?

Oh, so it is.

Read it, please.

(speaking French)

No, no, no, no.

You're reading it in French.

Well, it's written in French.

Oh... translate it.

Oh, you want it in English.

Um, Commander Houghton says

there's too much enemy activity in the area to chance a...

How do you say, in English, "parachute"?

Parachute.

Oh, really? Oh.

There's too much enemy activity

in the area to chance a parachute drop

and he asks us to make do with the supplies we have.

Oh, no.

Mr. Eckland?

What?

I don't suppose there's any use my asking your permission

to share certain of your personal belongings with us?

Well, so far, you've "shared" me out of my home, my bed, my food

and my shirt.

Now, how about sharing some of my things with me?

Would you like some tea?

Tea?

Lemon or milk?

Milk?

Oh, sorry.

We're out of milk.

Oh...

But we could use some additional place settings

some rope... some, uh, tools

and above all, a change of clothing.

Above all, I could use some whiskey.

Now, how about making a trade?

Sorry. That I can't do.

Then, Madam, I wish you a good day.

Mr. Eckland, wait!

Hello, Mr. Eckland.

The answer is "no."

Bonjour, Monsieur.

(speaking French)

I wouldn't think of it.

Oh!

You stepped on my foot!

You put it under mine!

Look out!

All a bunch of nuts.

Oh, now hold it.

And what have you got there?

(screams)

Oh, no!

Oh, no. Ow!

Come back here, you pirate.

Mr. Eckland, stop chasing the girls.

I'm not chasing...

They're all crooks!

And you're the crookiest.

And a good day to you, Mr. Eckland.

Rumplestiltzkin, Rumplestiltzkin.

Can anyone hear me?

Houghton: I can hear you, Rumplestiltzkin.

I can hear you, too.

Where's Mr. Eckland?

He's not here.

Nobody's here except my friend Gretchen.

We're not well today.

Say "hello," Gretchen.

Did you hear Gretchen?

She said, "hello."

Hello, Gretchen.

I'm sorry you're not well today.

Go and get Mr. Eckland, please.

The filthy beast?

Oh, we don't speak to him.

Hey, hey, hey, hey!

Come on!

Get away from there.

Come along, Gretchen.

That you, Walter?

No, it's Gretchen.

Keep them away from that radio, will you?

You keep them away from the radio.

Beat it.

Miss Freneau told us to stay in the house.

Ah.

(chuckles softly)

? After breakfast, may w e go out with the others

Nope. Not until you're feeling better.

It's Gretchen that's not well.

e. I'm tired of staying her

Oh, you stop complaining.

You sound like Anne.

Is anything wrong?

The whole Japanese navy's anchored offshore.

They're sending a boat in.

Where are the other children?

Uh, they're... Come on, let's round them up.

Let's get them in the shack.

Oh, Mr. Eckland...

shouldn't we report the Japanese to Commander Houghton?

In five minutes he can talk to them personally.

You and Gretchen stay in the house.

Come on, hurry it up.

Get in the house.

(speaking French)

Oui, mademoiselle.

Quickly. Where are the other two?

They're down on the beach collecting coconuts.

I told you to keep them off the beach.

No, you didn't. Yes, I did

but you weren't listening, as usual.

Come and show me. Come on, let's go.

Show me where.

Anne's up in one of those trees.

Uh-huh. Get down.

Stay here. Don't move.

Hey, stay. Shh.

(speaking Japanese)

(speaking Japanese)

If she opens her mouth, we've had it.

Jenny hasn't said a word

since she left her parents seven days ago.

I thought you might have noticed.

She can still scre am, can't she?

Here.

(grunting quietly)

Shh, shh, shh. (crying quietly)

Baby, shh, baby, shh, don't cry.

Shh, don't cry, don't cry. (crying softly)

(speaking Japanese)

(continue speaking Japanese)

I wish I knew what they were saying. Shh.

The one with the glasses is the cook.

Their captain adores turtle soup.

Hmm?

He sent them ashore for turtles.

There doesn't seem to be any.

Oh, it's all right-- they're going to leave now.

(men speaking Japanese)

Oh, dear.

What?

One of them suggested they bring back coconuts instead.

It's a bad dream.

(speaking Japanese)

The cook said the captain wants turtle soup or nothing.

s. He's sick of coconut

Good for him.

Oh... What?

g. He just called the captain a dirty na me, and they're leavin

Anne (whispering): Help...

I'm slipping.

(Eckland grunts)

Quick, let's go.

Oh, go on, beat it. Come on. Buzz off.

You're not supposed to be on the boat.

Get off the boat.

(clears throat)

Thank you.

(clears throat)

Thank you.

Hey, what's your name?

You've got a name, haven't you?

Oh.

See this whistle?

Would you like to have it?

Okay.

Now, all you have to do

is repeat three simple words after me.

Is that a deal?

Just repeat three words.

All right.

Elephant.

Elephant.

Rhinoceros.

Rhinoceros.

Wrong.

Why?

No, not "why"-- "wrong."

"Wrong" is the third word.

You lose.

No! Give me that back.

Oh, I didn't think you'd be a sore loser. Here.

All right.

(whistle blowing)

I'm sorry. We're all out of whistles.

I told Harry she could help us.

Help us do what?

Fix your boat.

Harry knows everythi ng about boats.

Uh-huh. Well, how'd you like to swab down the deck?

Smashing! I'd love to!

Good. You'll find a mop down below.

Go ahead.

lo. Oh, hello, hel

(both speaking French)

Oh, uh-huh. Well, you do that.

Yeah. Do that. Mm-hmm.

But do it quietly.

Mr. Eckland?

Quiet, quiet.

Do you want me to mess this up?

Mr. Eckland?

Now, I know you've saved up a lot to say

but would you mind spreading it out a little?

g. You're doing it wron

. It's backwards

No, it isn't.

See the boat's upside down.

You do it this way so when you turn it over you...

Well... how can I get anything done

when you're chattering all the time?

Besides, you should be working. Come on.

It can't be.

(quietly): Red light!

So this is where you are.

? What are you all doing here

s. Look at their clothe

They'remyclothes.

But they're filthy.

No. They're dirty.I'mfilthy.

e. All of you, get back to the hous

ns. It's nearly ti me for your lesso

Mr. Eckland asked us to help fix his boat.

Well, I'm sure he will excuse you now.

re. But we wan t to stay he

I don't...

What did you say, Jenny?

We want to stay here.

Mr. Eckland got her to speak.

I created a monster-- a talking person.

(chuckles softly)

Well, better do as she said.

Get goin g.

Thank you, Mr. Eckland.

Next time I want them to talk or doanything

I'll call you.

t Well, it's not my faul

that boats are mor e fun than lessons.

I did it on purpose.

Nothingis ever your fault, Mr. Eckland...

and if I return seven wild Indians

to their families who trusted me

well, then that won't be your fault, either.

h. Shh, shh, sh

Huh?

(whispering): Well, you don't have to be

a schoolteacher all the time.

(whispering): I am not a schoolteacher...

but some form of discipline has to be maintained.

Shh...

Why don't you teach them something useful?

What do you suggest, drinking and swearing?

(loudly): Why are we whispering?

Oh!

? I don't know. Why are we whispering? Hmm

Is it edible?

ly. No. I get lone

-- Now, why don't you teach them something like that

something practical, like catching fish?

Oh, well, that doesn't seem too difficult.

I mean, if you can do it, I'm sure anyone can.

et. Try it. I haven't had my morning laugh y

All right.

Oh, that was good. Good.

Whoa!

(spluttering)

I didn't quite understand

the reason for that last movement.

Would you mind demonstrating it again?

I have an infuriating lack of talent for doing simple things.

You probably don't do them right. That's why.

All right, all right, just stay there.

I like fish, but fish don't like me.

... All right, now

Now, be quiet. Just keep still.

Now, give me your hand.

Cup them, cup them.

That's right. Oh.

See? Mm-hmm.

Now, watch what you're doing.

Hey, here she comes again.

? How do you know it's a she

Her mouth is open. Now, be quiet.

Okay, now... now, slowly...

Slowly now...

Slowly... s... s...

w? Mr. Eckland, aren't we moving too slowly no

Hmm? Hmm?

Shouldn't we...

Shouldn't we what?

What?

You said "shouldn't we."

Shouldn't we what?

Well, you've got the hang of it now.

Oh... we-we didn 't catch a fish.

I know, I know. That's right, that's right.

W-we didn't.

But you got the hang of it.

t. You already said tha

Oh, I did, huh.

Mr. Eckland, are you going to show me

how to catch a fis h or aren't you?

I aren't.

I want to go back now.

Mmm, just as soon as I pick some of those berries.

What if they're dangerous?

Oh, we can always ask Mr. Eckland.

Yeah, if he says, "Eat them," we'llknowthey're poisonous.

Oh.

Oh!

Oh, something bit me.

A snake--

there, next to your leg.

Oh!

It bit you! It bit you!

Oh, l-let's go back quickly.

(speaking French excitedly)

Mm-hmm.

(continuing French)

What happened?

I don't know what she's saying.

A snake... It was a long snake.

I saw it.

It bit mademoiselle

on the leg.

Okay, everyone out.

Freneau: Girls, do as Mr. Eckland says.

I'll be all right.

Harriet: I want to watch.

Oh, Harriet, please.

Go on.

(gasps)

Is it painful?

Your hand is wet.

Yeah.

Now, this is going to hurt a little.

You should enjoy that.

Quiet.

Go ahead, you can yell if you feel like it.

I don't feel like it.

Okay, it's all done.

Do you really think it was poisonous?

Well, no sense taking any chances.

Lie back.

It isn't going to hurt.

(spits)

Mr. Eckland... I want you to know

I really appreciate what you're doing.

Save it.

(spits)

Come in, Kings Point.

This is Eckland.

Stebbins: Briar Patch

Mother Goose.

Bo Peep here.

Get Houghton, will you?

We got trouble here.

What's wrong, Walter?

What kind of snakes they got around here, Frank?

Is that a rhetorical question, I hope?

No, Miss Freneau went and found one.

Houghton: Good grief.

Is she...?

She seems all right at the moment.

Find out if they're poisonous, will you, Frank

and if so, what we can do about it?

Right away.

Oh, and Walter...

until we get a positive identification

don't try and be a movie hero

and suck out the venom.

(gargling)

Houghton: Walter?

Are you there, Walter?

Yeah, I'm here, Frank.

Shoot.

Plug in the phones, will you?

Yeah.

(sniffs)

(clears throat)

(sniffs)

Go ahead.

It's not good.

I've got Dr. Bigrave here.

He's checked with Tropical Medicine.

I'll put him on.

Mr. Eckland... (clears throat)

there are three varieties of serpent

indigenous to those islands

and I'm afraid all of them are extremely poisonous.

Mmm, well, I opened the wound, doctor.

I think I got all the venom out.

Well, taken orally, it can't hurtyou,Mr. Eckland

but if she were bitten, it's entered her bloodstream.

There's nothing we can do.

I'm afraid she's bought it.

Well, there must be some...

The venom is neurological and attacks the nervous system.

The end will come suddenly

preceded by a general numbing sensation

and dizziness.

Oh, oh, I see, Doctor.

I suggest you do everything

to make her as comfortable as possible

including the liberal use

of any strong analgesic sedative you happen to have.

Well, I don't have anything like that.

Nonsense, Wally.

You've been using one for years.

No, I haven't.

Oh, yes, I have, yeah.

Call me, Walter... when it's over.

Good-bye.

Yeah.

It's bad, isn't it?

Where's the whisky?

Oh, I knew it.

I'm going to die and you're afraid

I'll take the secret to my grave.

Whisky is still the best thing for snakebite.

Where is it, lady?

Stop calling me "lady."

It sounds so awful.

It's in the oven.

It can't be in the oven.

I looked there.

I know you did.

Gretchen told me.

I put it thereafteryou looked.

Hey, I thought it was for me.

Just want to make sure it hadn't gone bad.

Oh, here.

Now, come on, drink that.

That won't hurt you.

Go on.

Hey-hey, be careful.

You'll ruin your amateur standing.

(sighing contentedly)

I'm French, Mr. Eckland.

My parents started me on wine mixed with water

when I was six...

but I don't believe in excessive drinking...

Uh-uh.

Especially in front of children.

Oh.

No, the truth is... when my mother died

I became the mistress of...

the consulate.

Oh, oh.

Oh, well...

I presided over all the diplomatic dinners.

We had, uh, martinis before dinner

white wine with the fish

red wine with the main course

champagne with the dessert

cognac with the coffee

and port after dinner.

Sounds great.

Freneau: Isn't it getting hot in here?

Whoo, is it getting hot in here?

Isn't it getting hot in here?

Darling, you mustn't move around now.

Oh... Now, come on, just-just...

That's right. Just lie quietly.

I bet you think I'm an iceberg.

Do you know how old I am?

No.

The truth is... we've lived in 11 countries.

I can speak seven languages.

I'm excellent at bridge.

I play the cello very well.

I'm double-jointed

and I know how to ride a camel.

(laughing)

I was engaged once.

Oh? Oh?

His name was Cesare and he worked

in the Italian consulate at Fiume.

Do you know where Fiume is?

Uh, Yugoslavia, isn't it?

No, it's in Yugoslavia.

He called me, "Carissima"

and gave me handkerchiefs with my initials on them.

Oh. Every time he wanted to kiss me

he'd say, "Permesso?"

and, then, afterwards, he'd say, "Grazie."

You've had enough.

(laughing wildly)

(continuing laughing)

Oh, Cesare would never have done to my leg what you did.

No, probably couldn't reach it.

I liked what you did to my leg--

the last part, I mean.

Oh, that.

Tell me...

I'd like to know

what did my blood taste like, hmm?

Delicious.

Now, come on.

No, no, no, no, no, no, I'm being serious.

What did it taste like?

Well, how would I know?

I'm not a vampire.

Oh, oh, oh, was it salty?

A little salty, yes.

Too salty?

No, it was just right.

Oh, no, you thought it was too salty.

I can tell.

You didn't like it.

No, no, I-I liked it, mmm.

Oh, really?

Yeah, I liked it.

You're not just saying that?

No, great blood.

Uh, uh, please, now-now-now

buzz off, will you?

Uh, Miss Freneau isn't feeling very well.

Now, come on.

I'm going to kill that rotten snake.

Anne!

Your opinion of me's correct, you know?

I'm a... a picture-straightener.

You're a what?

A picture-straightener.

Oh.

When I see a picture on a wall

that doesn't hang... straightly...

I straighten it.

Oh, you do that? Oh.

And I brush my teeth every morning and every night...

Hmm. and if I don't have a toothbrush...

I use my finger.

Mmm.

Oh...

I feel so numb.

"Numb"?

Where?

Everywhere.

What does it mean?

Oh...

Oh, you'd better lie down.

And I'm so cold.

Oh, why am I so cold?

Well, I... here we go.

Oh, I'm dizzy.

Yes. I'm very dizzy.

You lie down.

Just rest.

(moans)

That's right.

Oh, come closer, so I can tell you something.

My coconut is empty.

Y...

Oh.

Have a belt yourself.

Uh... no, no, thanks.

Uh, th-there'll be plenty of time later.

Uh, I mean, y-you go ahead.

What was she like?

"She" who?

The lady who drove you to this.

"Drove me to" what?

Drink.

Oh, there was no lady.

That was your wife.

(laughing)

No, uh, there was no wife.

Then from what are you running away from... hmm?

Oh, I'm not running away.

Oh, there must've been some... some...

Well, well, therewas.

It was a necktie.

A what?

A necktie.

I was late for class one morning.

I forgot my tie.

They wouldn't let me in.

Um, how long ago was that?

About eight years ago.

Weren't you a little old to be going to school?

Oh, I wasn't going.

Well...

(clears throat)

I was teaching.

Oh...

I was a professor of history.

Ah.

A-A-And what about the necktie?

Well, now, this is no time to talk about me.

Why not?

(sighs)

Yeah, why not?

Well... see, I thought they'd be more interested

in what was inside a man's head

not around his neck.

Mmm.

Then I noticed theyallwore ties.

They all looked alike and they all behaved alike

and they all talked alike

but they were all going the same way

no matter which way they said they were going.

So, what was the use of teaching them history

or anything?

They weren't learning by it...

still creating the same old problems.

So, I packed, got on a boat and got away from them.

Mmm.

Mmm, now look what they've got me doing.

Mmm.

(chuckles)

(laughing)

Uh-huh.

What's so funny?

(laughing)

You're the schoolteacher.

(laughing continuing)

(gasps)

Oh, dear.

No...

Oh...

(clicks tongue sadly)

What's that?

The snake.

But that's not a snake.

It looks like a snake.

You ninny.

You'd better tell Mr. Eckland.

I want to go home.

He'll be furious.

Why?

Because Miss Freneau's not dead.

Oh, la.

(clears throat)

This is Eckland.

Is Houghton there?

(Morse code tapping)

I'm here, Walter.

Frank...

it's all over, Frank.

She's, uh...

I'm sorry.

Yeah.

What do I do about the kids, Frank?

They don't know yet.

They'll have to be told, Walter.

Yeah.

Well, stick around, will you?

I may need you later.

Sure, sure.

I'll stand by.

(sighs)

Mr. Eckland...

Oh, oh, oh.

Uh, just a minute.

I...

Uh, will you all come over here, please?

Mr. Eckland...

Ju-Just let me finish.

There's something I want to tell you.

There's something we want to tellyou.

Yeah, uh, just a minute, now.

This isn't going to be easy.

Now...

Those of you who are old enough

to understand what I'm going to say

will be able to help the ones who, uh... well...

Mr. Eckland...

Uh, please, there's a good girl.

Now, Miss Freneau, who I guess we all gave

a very difficult time to when she...

Well...

Miss Freneau has...

has gone away.

No, she hasn't.

You tell him, Anne.

Why me?

Because it was all your fault.

Uh, just a minute.

Tell me what?

I-It wasn't a snake.

It was this.

But that's not a snake.

Itlookslike a snake.

Well, that's not a snake.

Here.

Watch out for the thorns.

(gasps)

Thank you.

Not a snake.

Itlookslike a snake.

No, that doesn't.

This looks like a snake.

Is it morning already?

Walter?

Are you there, Walter?

I have the chaplain.

I thought it might be a comfort if he said a few words.

Never mind the chaplain, Frank.

She's alive.

Thesnake'sdead.

Walter...

explain yourself.

Walter...

Walter!

Walter!

Were you really a schoolteacher?

All of you, raise your right hands.

Come on, raise your right hands.

All right.

Now, none of you heard anything I said in there.

You got that?

Okay, now, spit.

Go ahead. Spit.

The first one who breaks the pledge

will get warts.

Qu'est-ce quewarts?

Uh... Mr. Eckland...

may I speak with you, please?

No.

Oh! Oh! You don't have to shout.

I don't even have to talk.

Um... Mr. Eckland

do I owe you an apology

or an explanation

or anything like that?

Probably.

Some other time.

I seem to remember someone saying

that a drop or two helps...

No, not that!

Ooh!

I went through enough nonsense with you

just to get this much.

Mr. Eckland, what, exactly

did I do yesterday?

Oh, nothing.

You just put a flower between your teeth

and danced around the room naked.

I couldn't have!

I did?

You mean you don't remember?

No.

Oh. Oh, well, then you don't remember

anything I said, do you?

Why? What didyou say?

Nothing.

Well, there doesn't seem to be

much to remember, then, does there?

No, no, no, no, no.

Well, unless you mean what you said

about running away from civilization

because of a necktie.

I thought you said you didn't remember anything!

Oh, oh, oh... nothing after that.

There wasn't anything after that!

Then when did I dance around naked

with a flower between my teeth?

I only told you those things about me

in strictest confidence.

Why, I haven't told anyone.

You just told me, didn't you?

You are the one who told me.

Well, I don't care!

I only told you because I thought you were dying.

Sorry I disappointed you.

Oh...

I... I don't mind

that you were a schoolteacher.

There you go again!

Now, it's none of your business.

I-I... I thought you were running away

from something muchworse than that.

I wasn't running away.

I was escaping from hypocrites like you

who have to get drunk before they can let go.

There.

Well, then, you're a happy man.

That's right.

And that's why youdrink so much--

because you are so happy.

Yes.

Is this boat tilted?

No.

Now, you listen to me.

Before you mess around with other people's lives

you'd better take a look at your own.

And what's wrong with it?

Well, maybe, if you'd stop straightening pictures

and let men wear their own pants

maybe they'd be able to touch you

without askingpermesso.

Dear Lord...

Oh, Harriet, Dominique's going to say grace.

Mon Dieu, benicez-nous articles de nourriture

que nous allons prendre.

Et donnez du pain a sur a mon faim.

All: Amen.

Oh, Mr. Eckland.

Oh, uh, um... I thought, if you had enough food, I...

Well, certainly.

Look, he's combed his hair.

And he's actually wearing socks.

Well, you see, my feet were chilly.

Uh... I'm...

We're delighted you could come.

Um... Anne, move over next to Elizabeth

so Mr. Eckland can sit down.

I don't want to sit there.

She never wants to do anything.

That's not true.

I want to go home.

All right, Anne.

Uh... change places with Harriet.

My name's Harry.

Oh, sorry.

Harry, on the other side of Mr. Eckland.

Thank you, Harry.

We fellas should stick together.

Passez a Monsieur Eckland.

That'smydinner.

Well, then take it.

I'm sick and tired of tinned beef.

Then give it back.

I want to go home. I want to go home.

Why can't we have fish once in a while?

Professor Eckland was giving me lessons

but he never finishes

what he starts.

(choking)

Raise your arms.

Lower your head.

Bebez de l'eau. Bebez de l'eau.

Drink something.

Give him something to drink, quick.

Drink.

Hold it.

Jenny!

Well, how strange...

Why?

that you should bring me this.

I've done it before.

No, you haven't. Yes, I have.

Shut up.

Well, since it's here, I'll, uh...

Uh-uh-uh... there's already a beverage

on the table, Mr. Eckland.

Yes? What?

Coconut milk.

You're kidding.

Well, it happens to be very tasty

and quite healthful.

Well, I'm sure it is.

Uh-uh-uh-uh...

Mr. Eckland...

Delicious.

Coconut milk.

Young coconuts must love it.

(all laughing)

(airplane engine roaring)

Get back!

Get back!

Come on. Let's get back in the shack.

Uh... I-I...

I hurt my ankle when you...

when I fell.

Now, get up.

Now, let's see.

Put your weight on it.

That's not too bad.

All right.

That's fine.

This is Eckland. Get Houghton.

Man: Stand by, Mother Goose.

Houghton: Yes, Walter, what is it?

A plane, Frank.

He dove at us.

Go on.

Well, go on where? He spotted us.

And now you'd like me to take you off the island, is that it?

Naturally.

Really, Walter? You never give up, do you?

All right, tell me what happened.

I've already told you.

A Japanese plane flew over.

What kind?

I don't know what kind.

Well, that's what you're there for, isn't it?

Really, Walter, planes are supposed to fly over.

We wouldn't need you

where planesdidn'tfly over, would we?

Now, just because one gets a little close...

Alittleclose!

Now, you listen to me, Frank.

You get us out of here by tonight.

I really don't think it will be tonight, Walter.

Thanks a lot.

I won't need you when I get the launch ready.

Walter, I'd forget about the launch if I were you.

You're completely ringed in there

which means you could only travel by night--

in a boat which you can't be too sure of.

And, even if you could break through-- which I doubt--

Port Moresby is the only place open

and that's over 200 miles away.

Then do something.

Walter, I have 32 men

in precisely the same position you're in.

How is it that I spend most of my time listening to you?

Now, be a good chap and relax.

Signing off.

The fathead.

I'll be down at the launch.

Mr. Eckland?

Hmm?

Hmm?

Oh, I thought your ankle was bothering you.

Oh, well, it feels much better now, thank you.

Fine.

I wanted to thank you.

For saving my life, I mean.

I behaved quite stupidly.

Can you forgive me?

Sure.

I wouldn't want you to think badly of me.

No. Doyou think badly of me?

I don't think badly of you either.

Good for you.

Mr. Eckland?

You can kiss me if you want.

I may?

Oh, my darling.

I have thought of nothing else

since that moment we met.

This first burning kiss is but the beginning.

Tonight, you will leave those children

and come live with me on my boat.

What... what are you doing?

But of course.

How thoughtless of me.

We must be careful.

What time can I expect you tonight?

But Mademoiselle doesn't let us out at night.

Oh, well.

(engine grinding)

(grinding)

Mr. Eckland, have you been listening to me?

How can I help it

with you screaming in my ear?

Because you've been talking total nonsense, as usual.

It's quite clear

you know nothing whatsoever about children.

Uh-huh, and you're an expert, of course.

I know one thing-- Elizabeth is at that...

Wait, wait, wait.

Hand me those pliers, will you?

Which one?

The small one.

This?

Thank you. Now, what were you saying?

Elizabeth is at that difficult age

and you frightened her.

Yeah, well, I'm at a difficult age myself.

She nearly scared me to death.

How about teaching those kids the facts of life?

Or don't you feel you're up on the subject?

I wouldn't exactly call them backwards.

Not the way they were watching during lunch.

Watching what?

(engine starts)

(engine running)

It worked!

Of course it worked.

Now, what were they watching during lunch?

They were watching us.

Watching us what?

Watching us watch each other.

So we watched each other.

So what?

They're not blind, you know.

What do they think watching is--

a proposal of marriage?

Whoever said anything about...

Just because a man puts on socks

and comes to lunch...

If you think I'd want to get involved with

an undisciplined, self-indulgent escapist like you...

Well, that's better than being a frustrated spinster

who can't find a husband.

Spoke to Oliver, Sir.

Mother Goose is requesting a chaplain.

A chaplain? Good heavens, he's killed her.

No, sir.

They want to get married.

Married?

Goody Two-shoes and the Filthy Beast?

What's taking him so long?

He's had enough time to get

the Archbishop of Canterbury.

Oh, Mr. Eckland, really.

Oh, stop calling me Mr. Eckland.

It sounds ridiculous.

Houghton: Walter? Are you ready, Walter?

Just a minute, Frank.

Here, use my tie.

Oh, thank you, Harriet

but ties don't suit Mr. Eckland.

Oh.

Have you got the chaplain, Frank?

Yes, he's here.

There's a little paperwork, Walter.

Bride's full name.

Catherine Louise Marie Ernestine Freneau.

Groom's full name.

Walter Christopher Eckland.

Mm.

Witnesses.

Who's the maid of honor?

Um, Elizabeth Anderson.

And the best man?

Oh.

Harry McGregor.

Harry?

Just believe me.

Proceed, padre.

Thank you.

Now, is everyone ready?

Yes, padre.

(playing "The Wedding March")

Dearly beloved

we are gathered here

and... there, in the presence of these witnesses

to join together this man and this woman

in the bonds of holy matrimony

which is an honorable estate instituted of God...

(airplane approaching)

into this holy estate.

These two persons come now to be joined.

Duck! Down, quickly!

Get undercover!

If there be any present...

Up!

Everyone out! Come on, all of you!

Quickly. Come on, come on, get going!

...why they may not lawfully be joined in marriage

I require him now to make it known or ever after

to hold his peace.

Any-anything there?

Good.

Now, then.

Do you, Walter Christopher Eckland

take this woman to be your lawful wedded wife

to love and to cherish

to have and to hold

so long as you both shall live?

Uh, Mr. Eckland?

Do you, Walter Christopher Eckland...

Walter!

Stay there!

...to be your lawful wedded wife?

Hold it, padre. Hold it.

Mr. Eckland, do you...?

I do, I do. Get Houghton, quick.

What is it, Walter?

They came back, Frank.

I told you they would.

Who came back?

You know who. Now listen!

(airplane approaching)

Did you hear that?!

Yes, I'll get onto it right away. Stand by.

I want the name and exact position

of every Allied submarine

within 12 hours' running distance

between here and Matalava

and get onto it right away.

Aye, aye, Sir.

Walter.

I told you to stay where you were.

The plane's gone.

I was afraid I was a widow

before we were even married.

Uh, er, Mr. Eckland.

What should we do now?

Well, all right, we'll take another whack at it

if you will, padre.

So take your time, but hurry it up.

Oh, eh, yes, yes, of course.

I understand. Uh...

Let me see now.

Do you Walter Christopher Eckland

take this woman...?

Oh, we-we did that part, padre.

Oh. Oh, I'm sorry.

I-I'm a little rattled.

Uh, let me see here.

All right, then.

Do you Catherine Louise Marie Ernestine Freneau.

take this man to be your lawful wedded husband

to love and to cherish, to have and to hold

for as long as you both shall live?

I do.

Forasmuch as you have consented together in holy wedlock

and have given and received a ring in token of your troth...

Wait a minute. What ring?

Didn't we do the ring?

No, we didn't do the ring.

Oh, I'm afraid we'll have to do the ring.

Well, here.

Hold it, padre.

All right, padre.

We did the ring.

Oh, good.

Forasmuch as you have consented together in holy wedlock

and have given and received a ring in token of your troth

I now declare you husband and wife.

You may kiss the bride, Mr. Eckland.

Mr. and Mrs. Eckland, if you're finished now

I suggest you get the hell out of there.

Yeah, that's a good suggestion, padre.

Thank you.

Hold on, Walter, hold on.

What, Frank?

One of your American submarines, theSailfin,is in your area.

She's running submerged

so we'll not be able to make radio contact

with her until she surfaces tonight

but she ought to be able to get through to you

by dawn tomorrow.

She'll have to lie off the reef to await your signal

so I suggest you stay on the beach.

Have you got that?

I've got it.

Oh, and incidentally, Walter

congratulations to you and Mrs. Eckland.

and the best of luck to all of you.

Mmm.

And they're going to need it.

Walter, are you awake?

Uh-huh.

I was thinking about yesterday.

Somehow, the word "wedding"

has always called to mind a different picture.

Mm-hmm. Somehow the words "wedding night"

have always called to mind a different picture, too.

Well, we couldn't very well have left

the girls by themselves.

They're our responsibility.

They're not ourchildren.

No, if theywere our children

they'd have never gotten tobeour children, would they?

You won't be coming with us, will you?

How did you know?

Oh, when a woman has been married as long as I have

she knows what her husband's thinking.

Oh, well.

I'll shove off right after the rest of you

and get through to Port Moresby in no time.

Well, you know what Commander Houghton said.

I can't leave my boat.

Must be a good one.

Good or bad, it's all the dowry you're going to get.

I'm thinking of starting

a charter service right after the war.

Somewhere around the Solomons and New Hebrides.

Good money there for anyone who knows the islands.

All right. I'm not leaving without you.

Oh, yes, you are.

Someone's got to get those children

back to their parents.

Lord, you're stubborn.

That's right.

Come on.

Yeah, come on.

That's it. Go to sleep.

(engine humming)

They're here.

Hold it.

Girls.

Hold it.

That's a Japanese patrol boat.

Oh, my God.

They picked a fine time

to check us out.

What about the submarine?

She won't surface

while that thing's there.

Get off the beach.

Come on.

Come on, girls. Wake up!

Quickly as you can, wake up! Come on!

Take your gear.

Got it? Thank you.

They're sending two boats ashore.

Now, these fellows aren't looking for turtles.

They're looking for us.

Well, what if the submarine leaves without us?

Can't you radio them?

No, I can't make contact

while they're submerged.

Now, take the kids to the launch

and for God's sake keep them quiet.

Here. Here... Oh. Walter.

Hmm?

I look awful in black.

(growls)

(air hissing)

Over here.

The house is on fire.

I know, I started it.

Oh. When did you do that?

Oh... Last night, when you were asleep.

What else was there to do?

Hey, hide all that stuff.

We're getting off this island.

Is the submarine there?

It had better be.

Are we going home now?

That's right.

I don't want to go home.

Oh, come on.

Get in the dinghy and hurry it up.

Commander Houghton said there'd be a signal.

He wasn't joking.

They're coming out to meet us in the launch.

Dead slow.

Dead slow, sir.

Answers dead slow.

Holy cow.

An enemy patrol boat giving chase.

Ready the bow torpedo tubes.

Tubes forward, con.

Make ready forward tubes.

Submerged reef 300 yards from shore.

No torpedo clearance.

The launch is heading out beyond the reef.

They're following.

That's what he's up to.

He's bringing them out to us.

They're plastering him.

He's cleared the reef.

They're right behind him.

Bearing?

Mark.

Zero two five.

Range.

Mark.

Six five oh.

Tubes one and two, open outer doors.

Tubes one and two, open outer doors.

Check fire. Check fire.

The launch is veering into target path.

(explosion)

Get going, get going.

Final bearing.

Mark.

Fire one.

Fire two.

On the nose.

Not that it'll do those poor devils any good

let's take her up and look for survivors.

Freneau: Walter!

Mr. Eckland!

Walter!

Oh, zig!

What's the matter with this thing?

Mr. Eckland!

There's his hat.

Jenny, move over. I want to catch it.

Mrs. Eckland, I presume?

Mr. Eckland! Walter!

Took me forever to tie the wheel off.

I thought I'd have to stay with her.

Our boat, theCatherine.

I'm sorry.

Yeah, well, in a war everybody loses something.

I'm just glad it wasthatCatherine.

Hey, wait a minute. Wait a minute.

Hold on. You want to invite me in first?

Oh, uh...

Oh, Walter, you'll tip us in.

(kids screaming)

Not if you do it right.

Now, just shift your weight.

Get over there. You, too.

Oh, uh, Walter, I-I really don't think

it's such a good idea.

Now, p-please, just this once

will you do it my way?

All right.

Shut up.

I didn't say anything.

It looks like we'll be taking on passengers

after all, Mr. Cartwright.

Break out a raft.

Aye, aye, Sir.

Oh, I wonder if they serve coconut milk on submarines.

[Captioning sponsored by Artisan Entertainment

Captioned by The Caption Center WGBH Educational Foundation]