Original subtitles

THE SARAGOSSA MANUSCRIPT

Written by

Featuring

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Director of photography

Directed by

Forward! After me!

We take you prisoner! Don't try to resist.

Hey! Do you hear me?

Just a minute, friend. I'm admiring these drawings.

What about the enemy?

Go after them.

Interesting.

It's a pity I don't know Spanish.

Look, it's about my grandfather.

"Count Ollavedez, who had not yet brought settlers to the Sierra..."

Captain!

We're being surrounded! What shall we do?

Close the door! It's drafty!

Where was I?

Here.

"... to the Sierra Morena.

This steep mountain range between Andalusia and La Mancha,

was inhabited by robbers and gyp..."

Thank you... gypsies.

"They were said to feed on corpses of killed travellers".

Will we make it before night?

Before night? It'll take three days to cross these mountains.

Where will we sleep? It gets dark quickly.

Sometimes you can come across a roadside inn.

It's usually deserted as devilish ghosts chase the innkeepers out.

- Once evil spirits pick a place... - Then what?

A traveller who comes here should be prepared for the worst.

I'm not afraid of ghosts. I can cope with them.

Sir, listen to Mosquito.

Saddle the mules and follow me. Hurry!

Sir, don't go. Demons rave there.

Invisible hands push people into the precipice.

Devils have goat hooves.

- Let's head for Extremadura. - It has better sights.

We'll go straight ahead.

We'll make a stop at the cork oaks to eat our provisions.

We'll stay overnight at Venta Quemada.

The next day we'll stock up and head for the mountains.

After three days, exhausted but happy,

we'll make a triumphant ride into Castile.

That's my plan! Nothing will change it!

It'll be the end of us.

Since King Philip V honoured me

with the rank of captain of the Wallonian Guard,

it's my duty to find the shortest way to Madrid.

Maybe the king did honour you,

but your mind lacks reason.

I feel thirsty.

It's bad to drink water after eating fruit.

Where's the mule keeper?

I don't like it. He ran away with our provisions!

Don't say that. I bet evil spirits kidnapped poor Mosquito.

He ran away!

Damned thug!

He had these shrewd eyes.

Why didn't I listen to Brother Jerome De La Trinidad,

holy monk and preacher?

Mosquito!

He said Wallonian Guard officers were heretics!

Shut up, fool!

I'll get him.

I'll break his bones if he chickened out.

I beg you. Don't leave me alone here.

- Let's go! - I can't.

We'll talk later.

Mosquito!

He ran away.

Two foreign ladies staying in this inn invite you to supper.

Follow me, cavalier.

Seńor cavalier.

Thank you for being so kind and sharing our modest supper.

Satisfy your hunger.

You probably haven't eaten all day.

Are you surprised to meet us?

My name is Emina. This is my sister Zibelda.

We live in Tunis. But we come from Grenada,

where our relatives secretly profess the faith of our fathers.

Our journey is a well-kept secret.

We believe in your honesty and want to confide it to you.

We expected you.

I want to tell you the story of our family. Listen.

Do you carry the image of your mistress in this locket?

It's a gift from my mother with a piece of genuine relic.

Why are you frightened?

Only evil spirits are afraid of relics.

We're Muslim.

Don't be surprised at my sister's reaction.

We're sorry that our closest relative has a different faith.

Me? Your relative?

Yes.

Your mother was a Gomelez.

We come from that family.

I never heard about it.

Aren't you mistaken, my dear ladies?

No.

I promised to tell you the story of our ancestors.

But I'll start with mine.

Sit down.

We've been waiting for you.

Had you shown fear and gone a different way,

you'd lose our respect.

You flatter me, but I never deviate from my way.

Why are you so preoccupied with my courage?

- We're preoccupied with you. - Me?

You won't be so flattered

when I tell you that you're the first man we ever met.

My sister speaks the truth.

We never had a brother.

We were locked away in a seraglio since childhood.

We had no idea men existed.

But nature endowed us with the ability to love.

- So we gave each other love. - How interesting.

We really love each other.

Our mother told us that

we would either remain maidens or marry the same man.

That made us feel better.

The head of the family gave us permission to marry one man.

As long as he comes from the Gomelez family.

- Is that man me? - Yes.

We like that idea.

But my religion, my faith...

- Don't you like us? - I do.

- Aren't we nice to you? - You are.

It's nearly dawn. Let's not waste time on idle talk.

We can't be your wives.

Unless you accept the Prophet's law.

But you'll be able to see us in your dreams.

If you keep it a secret that we exist.

Do you agree?

The chalice, please!

Remember what you promised.

My dear cousin, why aren't you a Muslim?

I'd be so happy to see you...

on Emina's bosom and be your wife.

Follow me, my son.

Woe to him whose heart is hard and refuses to confess his sins.

Don't spend the night under an open sky.

Beware of all temptations for the Lord has raised his hand.

I will do as you say, Father. But...

My belly craves food.

Think how to salvage your soul.

I'll take care of your bodily needs.

Strange things happened last night.

Did you spend the night at a deserted inn?

I was at Venta Quemada but...

I have my reasons for not wanting to talk about it.

Devils tempt us.

Beware of Satan's pride.

You're right. Beware of Satan.

Your courage amazes me.

Who are you, young man?

Who raised you? Do you believe in ghosts?

Me? No.

Don't be afraid.

He's possessed. I'm trying to get the devil out of him.

Pacheco...

In the name of our Lord

I command you to take the goats up the mountain.

It proves that the angel of darkness has power

over this unfortunate land.

I devote much time to him. I hope I'll save him.

He's making progress.

- He milks the goats? - Yes.

Satisfy my curiosity, son.

I asked about your life.

It's an honour to me. I'll tell you everything.

My family abounded in prominent men rather than in wealth.

My father, a colonel of the Wallonian Guard,

was a polite and honourable nobleman.

I'm a van Worden!

You'll pay for this!

A horse! I want a horse!

What are you waiting for, cowards?

This won't end well.

Seńor, may I have a word with you?

- Please. - In private.

Seńor, I don't have the pleasure of knowing you.

You will soon.

Seńor?

After you.

Please.

Your carriage overtook mine.

It was an offense. I want you to explain.

My coachman didn't overtake yours.

Your coachman dragged behind.

I admit you're right.

It's a pity you didn't say that before I drew my sword.

I understand, seńor.

Excuse me for taking up your time.

Don't mention it. May I?

Of course, seńor.

Excuse me, I hope my roast isn't cold yet.

Water!

Why did he tell us to chop up his carriage?

He'd be more comfortable now.

He couldn't look at it after that incident.

- Water! - I'd sell it.

Noblemen like him don't sell things, they destroy them.

I'd give my wealth for a drop of water.

Did you hear that? You'd be rich if you had water.

He's crazy to start those duels.

If your master likes to collect wounds,

be ready for anything.

Damn it!

I'd give my soul to the devil for a drop of water.

I invited you seńores to my wedding.

Those with whom I crossed swords with,

but didn't get to kill.

You came to rejoice with me, now I need your advice.

Here's a letter from the mayor of Bouyon.

He summons me to take over the castle of my ancestors in the Ardennes.

Should I leave the king's service or abandon my heritage?

Take a vote.

I'll do as you say.

Hurry, seńores. The meat is getting cold.

Farewell, my king.

Farewell, sunny Spain.

I invite you all to a feast in my castle in the Ardennes.

Who'll pay me?

What a loss. It'll ruin me.

Follow me!

Follow the newlyweds!

There's no place like our sunny Spain.

It was a stupid idea.

I'll never sing a serenade again to a beautiful seńorita.

Quiet.

True. It's not the same.

I don't envy the newlyweds.

Long live the newlyweds!

May your son return quickly to Spain.

We shall name our son Alfonse.

Rejoice and enjoy the feast.

As a true Spaniard I have to fulfill my duty to the end.

Yes!

This rain reminds me of the siege of Lleida.

For three weeks I stood waist-deep in water.

Those were the times! I was known for my bravery.

I was born nine months later.

That was quite a story.

Your father is a man of honour.

Did you inherit this virtue?

Boasting does not befit a Wallonian Guard officer.

Before you begin to tell me about yourself,

I'll ask Pacheco to bring you some fresh milk.

No. I'll start right away.

I was raised away from home to learn the ways of a nobleman.

"...the lid flew open and I saw a skeleton climbing out.

I drew my sword. The skeleton tore off its left hand

and used it as a weapon to attack me fiercely.

I defended myself bravely.

Suddenly another skeleton jumped out.

It pulled out a rib from the first one

and hit me on the head".

Welcome, my son.

It's been so long.

My darling boy.

I hope you haven't forgotten the holy alphabet, son.

- Or my teachings. - I've been a good student.

Show us.

Excellent.

My dear Uracca, leave men's things to men.

Son, I want to show you a master thrust.

It's very difficult.

But once you master it, you'll be the best swordsman.

En garde!

My dear Uracca, I fought one hundred and thirty duels.

I'll share my experience with you.

Allez!

I failed again.

You were a great swordsman.

Alfonse will take your place.

Son, go back to your homeland.

Spain is the most wonderful country in the world.

I'll see to it that you become a Wallonian Guard captain.

So I came here and last night...

Yes.

My son, your story was captivating.

I see you received a good education.

But since you spent your last night at Venta Quemada...

What was I saying?

I wonder if you were haunted by two hanged men.

I don't want you to share the same fate as Pacheco.

I'm not afraid, Father.

My mother told me about possessed people.

But you can't find them nowadays.

What?

What about this poor creature? The devils plucked his eye out.

Pacheco!

His story may help you salvage your soul.

I'll tell him to begin.

Pacheco, in the name of our Lord,

tell your story to our dear guest.

I was born in Cordoba.

- My father was wealthy. - You can skip that.

His mother died three years ago.

His father decided to marry a young widow.

Camilla de Tormes.

They wed in Seville.

A few days later my father came home with his new wife.

And her sister Inezilia.

My dear wife, my lady,

I bought mules for your carriage.

And for you, fair Inezilia, I bought a sapphire ring.

You're the best husband and brother-in-law.

Inezilia is very happy, aren't you, dear?

Thank you with all my heart.

Don't eat fruit, Inezilia. It's bad for you.

I'm glad you're happy.

Camilla, why don't you sing to us after dinner?

Yes! Please do!

Come, sister. Let's get the instruments.

I beg you, father. Allow me marry fair Inezilia.

We'll go to Madrid and have a wonderful life there.

Forget it, son.

First, it's not appropriate to be your father's brother-in-law.

Second, the church does not allow such marriages.

- Third... - I love her more than anything!

Third, I won't have it!

You won't marry Inezilia.

Don't be upset, Pacheco.

If your father won't allow you to marry my sister,

you can be her lover.

Inezilia is an angel of purity. How could I?

Leave it to me, Pacheco. My sister will hear my request.

I'll do it with a heavy heart.

Pacheco...

Who can resist you?

Keep it short.

Tell us how your father went on a trip to Madrid,

taking his wife and her sister with him.

Every day without Inezilia was unbearable.

I missed her and suffered.

Manuela!

- Venta Quemada? - You'll wait for him there.

But there are brutal gangs prowling in the Sierra Morena.

It's quiet now that the Zoto brothers have been hanged,

two most horrible thugs.

Will Inezilia accompany my father?

Yes, sir.

I'll be on my way.

Inezilia...

We'll never part again.

Is there food and drink here?

- Can I stay overnight? - Sir, I beg you. Don't do it!

You have no clean bed linen?

- I can serve the royalty. - So what's the problem?

- Ghosts roam here at night. - Ghosts?

We spend the nights at a village nearby.

It's scary here.

We'll sleep with the ghosts.

As you wish, sir.

But my wife and I will not spend the night here.

I'll make sure the ghosts don't steal anything.

Where are you going?

Sir, don't fool with ghosts. I'm scared.

Get out of here!

It's time, Pacheco.

Your father is asleep. Inezilia is waiting.

Come.

Everything is going well. Look.

You're right.

I'll give you a sign when to come in.

Pacheco!

We're waiting for you.

Inezilia, do you really desire a lover?

You two will be lovers, but I'll always be with you.

Kiss her.

Passionately.

You love Inezilia and I love you.

She'll give you what you want. But remember my condition.

What do you say, my son?

I think you would be scared in that situation.

A nobleman knows no fear.

I'll tell Pacheco to go on.

I hope it gets more interesting.

Pacheco, in the name of our Lord, continue your story.

Half dead, I ran from the gallows.

I wandered around all day.

I know what you want to say.

If I came earlier, I'd get a feast fit for a king.

Exactly. There are ghosts here.

And you spend the nights at a village nearby.

Pardon me, sir. I have to leave you.

Was there a nobleman from Cordoba with two women here last night?

Well? A nobleman from Cordoba.

My wife left some supper for you over the hearth.

Over the hearth.

Pacheco!

Let me get closer to you. I'm trembling from cold.

It's me, your Inezilia!

Go away, Satan!

You're throwing us out?

Come, sister. Let's light a fire.

What do you say, my son?

I see you finally realize how powerful Satan is.

It's getting late.

I won't offer you a place to sleep here.

Pacheco's screams would keep you awake.

Go to the chapel.

- The chapel? - Yes.

But I'll hear him there.

- His screams are so shrill. - I know what I'm saying.

The chapel.

You'll sleep peacefully.

Kneel at the altar, confess your sins and repent.

It's not too late to ward off evil.

I don't think I've sinned. In my dreams, perhaps.

Who's here?

We're cold! It's us, your mistresses!

Go back to your gallows. I want to sleep.

You scoff us because you're in a chapel.

- Join us in the graveyard! - I'll oblige you.

Tomorrow.

You're edgy, my son.

I'm not surprised.

Last night evil spirits were up to no good.

The goats were bleating.

Devils like to take all kinds of forms.

They keep away from me.

I see you still have faith.

- But will you persist in it? - I will.

I won't keep you here. You have a long way to go.

In two days you'll cross the Sierra Morena.

I put some provisions by your saddle.

What's the shortest way to Madrid?

I've never been to Madrid.

But I know it's... that way.

Thank you, Father.

Remember! God has raised his hand!

- Seńor Alfonse van Worden? - Captain of the Wallonian Guard.

I arrest you in the name of the Holy Inquisition.

Your sword!

I'm a nobleman!

What a noisy sinner.

I hope he's just as talkative before the Holy Tribunal.

Amen.

I'm going to Madrid!

We let the wrongdoer accuse himself.

This kind of confession, though it may seem forced,

has its advantages.

Especially when the wrongdoer names his collaborators.

Do you know two African princesses?

It won't do you any good to keep silent.

I guess I'll have to help you.

Let's see how much you can take.

Are you going to faint?

Smelling salts will make you conscious again.

Let's carry on.

- Alfonse! - What is this?

You're saved!

Seńor Zoto has come to your rescue!

Dear Alfonse!

Alfonse!

You've been so brave.

There's no time for kisses.

We have to leave by the time the guards get here.

This is Seńor Zoto.

Seńor Alfonse, allow me to introduce my brothers.

Chico.

Moma and Chico.

How come, Zoto? Your brothers were hanged.

You heard right.

But you can see for yourself they're fine.

I saw them myself!

You saw two shepherds hanging to pacify local people.

What? Don't mention it. We have great horses.

I'm glad you feel better.

May happiness be with you.

They're surrounding us!

Chico! Cover us! Let's mount our horses!

Where's my sword?

Careful!

Hit harder!

Kiss me.

It's my turn now.

I'm so happy!

Are you pleased we're here, cousin?

Cousin...

This locket is horrible.

It prevents us from loving you more passionately.

Are you happy, cousin?

Yes.

But I must admit that

I'm not pleased with the way our night together ended.

We had our pleasures.

But it wasn't so pleasant in the morning.

Let's forget it.

It's plaited from our hair.

This talisman will make you remember us.

A talisman?

They say you can love only one woman. Wrong.

I love you two the same way.

You're both in my heart.

- Accept our faith. - You'll ascend the throne in Tunis.

Seraglios, gardens, fountains.

Let's not talk about kingdoms flooded by sunshine.

We're in an abyss on the edge of hell.

How dare you be in the company of Gomelez women?

You're doomed, cousin.

Forgive us!

You'll be killed like a coward with this axe,

and your corpse will be hung next to the Zoto brothers

at the mercy of vultures and evil spirits, or...

But the Zoto brothers...

Or you'll drink the potion from this chalice.

In one gulp!

Father, wouldn't you do the same in the name of honour?

What a horrible misunderstanding.

Evil spirits take so many forms, it's really confusing.

Seńor, you're here? You're too young for a kabbalist.

But you have a rope around your neck.

Don't worry. I know you're brave.

However, you lack experience.

Your name is Alfonse.

Your mother is a Gomelez.

You're captain of the Wallonian Guard.

Let's go from this awful place. We'll decide what to do next.

My name is Alfonse van Worden.

I know that.

I see you're weak.

I have this wonderful potion. It will make you strong.

No.

No more potions.

- Where are you heading, sir? - Madrid.

Good. We'll stop at a place where I left a hearty meal.

I said hearty, not wonderful.

Now listen.

Ancient books contain Chaldean wisdom.

While the verses of Shir Hashirim are pure beautiful poetry.

In Hebrew every letter is a number, every word a wise combination.

Every sentence is a formula.

If you pronounce it with proper exhalation and accent,

you can move mountains and drain rivers.

Adonai created the world...

This is where somebody played a joke on me last night.

Let's go in.

- My horse! It's unbelievable. - And mine is here.

I don't understand.

A horse follows his master.

It's lucky that devils don't need food.

Good, isn't it?

Good what?

I'm just asking. I'm glad I can satisfy your hunger.

What is this?

Is it yours?

So you spent the night in this inn as well.

I did. But I'm not going to talk about it.

It was a wonderful night.

- In spite of everything. - In spite of what?

- I won't say. I gave my word. - To whom?

Two beautiful women. Don't ask.

Let's go.

It's a long way to Madrid.

Do you know the shortest way?

Yes. It's that way.

That's where the Inquisition captured me.

You're right. Let's avoid their ambush.

Are there other paths?

Kabbalists always find the way.

We'll go around and get on the trail to Madrid.

The books of Sefer Zohar explain the depth of the ten elements

forming the unity of taste.

Thus we can define the powers ruling the pandemonistic world.

Do you have to keep using incomprehensible words?

It makes the journey more interesting.

There are all kinds of demons,

among which we can find Hungarian and Polish zombies...

Help!

I arrest you in the name of the Holy Inquisition.

Your sword!

Alfonse van Worden, don't resist!

I am Don Pedro Velasquez. Are you crazy?

Indeed.

It's not him. Who is it?

Don Pedro. He looked similar. What are you doing here?

Anybody can use the roads.

Bandits!

There is no road here. Go on your way!

That man must have taken another path.

What if he went back to Venta Quemada?

I heard he was coming here.

You're not eager to apologize, are you?

Get out of here!

In that case I apologize to you, honourable seńores.

A thorn.

I can't take it out.

Bad luck.

There's no place to hide.

Just in case, of course.

- Seńor Alfonse van Worden? - Yes.

Don't go that way. Some impolite thugs are waiting for you.

- The Inquisition? - Yes.

I'm really surprised. The Inquisition here?

They didn't realize you weren't Alfonse van Worden?

Obviously. They attacked me. It's logical, isn't it?

Unbelievable.

What now?

You'll go to my castle. It's just a few miles away.

You have a castle nearby? You didn't mention it.

He must be a modest man.

What if they find me?

They can't enter it. We'll take the shortest way.

Can I avail of your hospitality? I'll have a safe night.

I know seńor kabbalist. He never refuses shelter.

- Of course. - Thank you.

I'll have time to think about what happened to me.

Thinking about it can drive an inexperienced person insane.

The human mind can take in anything, if used properly.

END OF PART ONE

THE SARAGOSSA MANUSCRIPT PART TWO

Enrico, the master is back.

- What happened? - I don't know.

You deserve a rest after a long journey.

You'll be safe here.

My house is at your disposal.

- The 15th century. - I see you're an expert.

Curiosity distinguishes humans from animals.

I observe, listen and make conclusions.

I'm glad I met you. I enjoy your company.

Good company works wonders. It beats wealth or black magic.

This is no place to talk.

Please come inside. Enrico, show the way.

I expected you in three days.

Unforeseen circumstances and complications arose.

It all got out of hand.

- What now? - I don't know.

We must keep him here at all cost. I'll wait for instructions.

Who's the other man?

Be careful. Don't ask questions. Go make yourself beautiful.

You could have warned me.

Don't nag, my dear. I couldn't.

I get the impression it's the work of evil spirits.

I'd rather blame people.

Maybe somebody wants you to go through all this.

I'm much obliged. I feel you'll help me solve this riddle.

I like this place. It's peaceful and quiet.

Think about it, seńor.

Do you have everything you need?

- I don't know how to thank you. - It's nothing. Please feel at home.

Thank you. I feel fine here.

I really do.

- I did some thinking. - And?

It'll be best for me to get to Madrid as soon as possible.

Maybe I can make it at night.

The Inquisition is guarding all roads.

Maybe Seńor Velasquez will give me some advice.

He's a skeptic.

- What shall I do? - Wait.

Have a look at my books.

You'll find all the wisdom of the world on these shelves.

I recommend Spanish writings.

Don Pedro, I found the answer.

Have some wine, it's late.

Maybe it's the last time we'll light our vigil lamps.

Come, I want to show you something.

If you feel sad, drink some good wine.

Soon we'll all rest in eternal night.

How can you be so reckless? If he had read this to the end,

the events which would follow would be totally meaningless.

Luckily I came in time.

Strange things are happening here, seńor.

I saw it with my own eyes!

I held it in my hands.

It's the work of evil spirits.

I understand that your mind is rebelling against phenomena,

which have no explanation in the structure of matter.

But... try to explain.

What are you looking for?

There was a book here.

I saw the gallows.

Where is it?

Here? I've never seen a book like that.

- Is it the demons again? - They can be irritating.

Unfortunately the world is full of them.

Kabbalist incantations can stop them from doing bad things.

It's absolute nonsense.

- You don't believe in Kabbalah? - No.

What if I have proof?

- I'd have to prove it myself. - Go on.

This is no place for philosophical disputes.

I'm so glad to see you, brother. When did you get back?

This is Alfonse van Worden, captain of the guard.

Captain, my sister Rebecca.

Don Pedro Velasquez.

- Madam. - Welcome.

I'm glad I convinced you about the power of the supernatural.

Of course.

Seńor Alfonse, please tell me what you think about

everything that happened to you since you came here.

I don't know what to say.

I was put to sleep with a potion and taken to the gallows.

You were at the gallows of the Zoto brothers?

You saw them hanging?

Do they have a habit of freeing themselves?

Yes. Usually at night.

Your palm reads that you are possessed by love for demons.

You have no fear of people.

I'm not afraid of anybody.

I'm afraid for you.

I'm so happy they're here.

We'll rejoice and have fun.

I'm sorry, I have different plans.

Whatever it is, you can spend some time in our company.

Why is your brother greeting a gypsy so warmly?

A gypsy?

You'll soon see what kind of gypsy he is.

Welcome, Seńor Alfonse.

How do you know who I am?

Our camp moves from one place to another.

My daughters are fortune-tellers. Their eyes and ears are open.

An enchanted place.

The people of Sierra Morena are afraid to come near it.

It's not in my interest to tell them they're wrong.

This way most of my retinue stays outside the castle.

Seńor Avadoro,

I bet you have encountered many adventures in your wandering life.

That's true.

Tells us a story and Seńor Velasquez will teach us

how to experience poetry without the help of ghosts.

I don't succumb to ghosts.

But I'm beginning to fear the magical power...

... of you, madam.

I believe that the story of love is the same all over the world.

I think you'll enjoy hearing about my youthful adventures.

Some are amazing.

I could even say miraculous.

Every time I go back to those distant times of my life,

I hear the turmoil of passion and storms.

You look smarter than others. I have a delicate matter.

Follow me.

I'm a young woman's lover.

I think it's hard for her to remain faithful.

If you see a woman whose dress suits this piece of fabric,

watch if she goes to church or elsewhere.

Here.

- You'll get another one later. - You're her husband, right?

I'm paying you to discover infidelity, not who I am.

Keep your eyes wide open. They're calling for vespers.

- I'll be waiting at the inn. - The Inn of Lovers?

Yes.

- What are you doing? - Your beauty blinded me.

You're being suspected of infidelity.

Follow me.

Give this to cavalier Toledo.

My noble cavalier?

It's against my conscience to take money from both parties.

What's my destiny?

We'll get married under a big chestnut tree.

Nature will hear our vows, soft twilight will bless us.

I lost cavalier Toledo's address. He invited me to a feast.

Across the square.

- Until we meet again. - Who knows?

Seńor Toledo?

A lady asked me to give this to you.

I appreciate your wit, my friend...

and honour.

Do you want to be one of my servants?

I can't. I was born a nobleman.

I took on the role of a beggar as it doesn't dim my nobility.

An answer worthy of a Spaniard.

Cheers.

Human life is so fragile.

Why the gloomy thoughts?

I'm a sinner.

I used to leave one mistress for another.

But I thought I was wasting too much time.

So I'd start a new affair before breaking off the last one,

and plan a next one.

Spanish women have an urgency about them.

I swore love to each of them.

Punishment for breaking an oath is severe.

In the other world.

My friend Aquillar from Malta paid me a visit yesterday.

A nobleman, a good Christian.

How is it possible that we could be friends being so different?

You're not drinking?

I finished a bottle and you hardly touched your glass.

What are you thinking about?

The sun I saw today.

I was wondering whether I'll see it tomorrow.

Sure. If it's not misty.

I may not live to see tomorrow.

Are you planning a duel?

- I can be your witness. - I couldn't ask you to do that.

Good heavens!

You took up an old feud with my brother?

You mean I'll lose my friend or my brother in one duel?

I have a bad feeling. Wait until midnight.

If I die, I'll come and warn you what punishment awaits sinners.

I didn't want to see you, but I heard a voice from heaven.

No.

Are you gone?

Yes!

Is there purgatory in the other world?

Yes!

That's where I am!

Who died?

Tell me who died!

Toledo fell unconscious.

Excuse me, duty calls.

What a moment to stop.

Only real masters know how to mount suspense.

I'm confused.

I don't know where reality ends and fantasy begins.

You mean poetry?

I don't know what you mean.

I'll tell you something that is based on geometry principles.

If I want to define infinite greatness,

I write a horizontal eight and divide it by one.

If I want to mark infinite smallness,

I write one and divide it by that eight.

But these signs tell me nothing about what I want to express.

Infinite greatness is cosmos.

Infinite smallness is infinite root of the smallest part of an atom.

So I mark infinity, but I don't comprehend it.

If I don't comprehend it, but I can mark it,

I'm getting close to poetry.

It seems to be closer to life than we assume.

And faith? Empirical science contributes to disbelief.

Only an ignorant man thinks he understands what he sees.

A true scholar has to solve many riddles.

He goes astray, but he gets nearer to his goal every day.

Seńor Avadoro was telling us the story of cavalier Toledo.

I remember he was disturbed by a voice from the other world.

Yes.

His sensitive soul was stirred by emotions.

He fell into despair.

- What are you doing? - I want to rethink my life.

Seńor cavalier, allow me to say something.

The voice you heard yesterday only said what is in catechism.

There is no need to worry.

My friend, one who hears the voice of the dead,

will not remain among the living for very long.

Farewell, my friend.

Tell that lady everything without going into details.

You'll help me. I have a delicate matter.

I would be glad to help, but I can't leave my client.

I'll take care of him. It won't take long.

Listen.

I warn you, he's a windbag and a bore.

There is something interesting in every story.

You remember that seńor I had wine with at your inn?

He's the husband of a young noblewoman.

Give her this little jewel. Be discreet.

Seńor Lopez Soarez?

Love has its magic just like fortune-telling.

Something tells me you'll see me again.

Who knows?

You're kind, my good man. But the medicine is awful.

I'd give you something tasty, but the medic insisted.

Sit down. Come on.

I have a certain weakness.

Do me a favour and take that instrument.

Now listen.

I am the only son of Gaspar Soarez,

the richest merchant in Cadiz.

Wasting your time on love stories again?

Yes, daddy?

It's time you went to Madrid.

To get out into the world.

Daddy, I want to get married.

First you have to pass an exam in life.

You must obey these rules.

Don't get into any conversation with noblemen.

They grace us with their presence just to get a loan they can't repay.

You understand?

I forbid you to use the title of "Don".

Your are Soarez, that's it.

You are not allowed to use the sword.

It brings more shame than pride.

Last but not least.

You are not allowed to get into any kind of relationship

with the family of banker Moro.

Moro?

Now I'll tell you why.

I am related with the biggest bankers in Spain.

But I see you're doing good business with the Philippines.

I will deposit one million with you as a limited partner.

I am honoured.

I'll try to double your deposit as soon as possible.

There's no hurry.

It's a pity I didn't hurry.

My name is Moro, the royal banker.

My relative, Seńor Levardez, has passed away.

I found a cheque you wrote for one million.

I want you to return that money. I am his legal beneficiary.

I invested that million.

I will double it in the future or even...

I'm very sorry.

All right.

Here is your late relative's deposit.

Now listen carefully.

Two years later my ships returned. I tripled that money.

I wrote a letter to banker Moro saying I had two million of his.

My superior received your letter.

He informs you that the Levardez capital was entered into the books.

He has no further claims.

I owe him two million!

My superior won't hear it.

It's an insult!

I don't need his generous gift!

Moro is insulting me!

I began to claim my rights.

For the sake of my good name and reputation.

I went to court.

The tribunal of Seville ruled in favour of Moro.

We have to pay six hundred thousand piastres in court fees.

We didn't find justice.

We wasted six years.

Those two million are mine? It's deplorable!

You will appeal!

Now you see I have good reasons to forbid you

any contact with the family of banker Moro.

What happened next?

I said goodbye to my father.

I took my love stories bought in Cadiz and left for Madrid.

Can I have more of that mixture, my good man?

It makes me feel stronger.

Those sentimental stories made my heart melt.

When I came here I felt I was ready for love,

even though I did not meet the object of my affection yet.

Cavalier, over here!

Excuse me.

Who is that?

Put the chest over there. Come in.

Allow me, seńor.

Go away!

Seńor Don Lopez Soarez.

I came to pay my respects.

I am generally known under the name of...

under the name of... Don Roque Busqueros,

a family from Old Castile.

My father forbade me to use the title of "Don".

And I'm not allowed to associate with noblemen.

Seńor Don Lopez!

My father told me to address noble merchants as "Dons"

and to seek their company.

I respect my father's will.

I was impressed by your posture and elegance

when you got out of the carriage.

Is this yours, Don Lopez?

Yes.

Great. I collect coins.

Here. Take one.

A collector always has two pieces,

in case one gets lost.

And a third one for exchange.

Don Roque, I just arrived.

I'm tired and hungry.

Exactly.

It's not very polite to eat from one plate.

Or to use one spoon or fork.

- Hey, boy... - Hey, boy.

Set the table for one more.

Hey, boy! Set the table for one more!

Busqueros entertained me...

with gossip from Madrid.

But I was impatiently looking forward to going to Buen Retiro.

This remote park is described in many love stories.

I had a feeling I would start a love relationship there.

Madam, I think I found what you are looking for.

I lost a locket with a piece of gold chain.

Does it have an inscription?

You read that my name is Inez. It has my portrait.

I want to remind you that a finder usually gets a reward.

Seńor, you're too importunate for a first meeting.

Congratulations. You've met the son of the richest merchant in Cadiz.

Did I encourage strangers to talk to me?

Lopez Soarez.

May I have my locket back?

Go away!

Seńor Don Lopez.

I rejected twenty invitations and I came to see you.

You must admit that I did you a favour yesterday.

I mentioned that you're the son of one of the richest merchants.

She pretended to be angry only to convince you that

wealth did not impress her.

Don't believe it. You're young, smart, handsome.

But remember that gold is never an obstacle in love.

What will we do this afternoon?

I want to see the city... alone.

Seńor, it was a deadlock.

Go, you fool.

Say your prayers!

My brother gave me that locket.

No more questions.

But...

Unless you find something that belongs to me.

Then you can claim a reward.

We shouldn't be seen together.

"Lopez Soarez to..."

What?

"To Inez.

I am charmed... comma.

And you are the sole reason of it.

I want to share my thoughts in this letter,

but they seem to scatter".

I've got it.

Don Roque! Give it back!

Where are you?

Don Roque?

Don Lopez!

Stop!

Well? Your letter has been delivered.

You should be grateful, seńor.

Madam...

Why did you use this impertinent man to deliver your letter?

I wrote that letter for my own pleasure.

He stole it from me.

Ever since I came to Madrid, he haunts me like an evil spirit.

I shouldn't keep this nonsense.

What would you like to know?

I want to know who you are and what is your name.

I'm the daughter of a man who is as rich as your father.

- Banker Moro. - Moro?

- The curse of my life! - Seńor.

I can't even think about you or my father will curse me.

He crossed many seas to be a merchant in Cadiz.

In Cadiz...

Don't let that discourage you. Rich men are hard to catch.

But sooner or later they'll take the bait.

Stop it!

You'll scare my dog.

Only death is left for me. May lightning strike me.

Don't be afraid.

- Inez loves you very much. - Me?

She wants to meet you here, tomorrow at sunset.

I understand that at your age you don't want to get married.

But your excuse is strange.

The wrath of a father who crossed many seas to be a merchant in Cadiz?

You're lucky. I fixed everything.

Seńor Don Roque, can you do me another favour?

Don't go to Buen Retiro tonight.

Fair Inez won't be there.

But I want to sit on our bench and wallow in my sorrow.

There's something offensive in your words.

It looks like you don't appreciate what I've do for you.

Seńor...

"Jasmine exudes its balmy fragrance.

Trees are getting greener.

All you did was walk under them.

What will become of a heart..."

I could let you wallow in your sorrow alone.

But fair Inez may come.

Who will help you out?

What is this?

I'll tell you a story to kill time. You may learn from it.

I always had talent for studying law.

I was eager to know people and life.

What is it?

The bloody head!

I took you for my relative.

We had something important to discuss.

I don't know you or the reason for this unexpected visit.

I didn't mean to enter your room.

I was just curious who lives here.

I'm a lawyer and I study human life.

That makes a difference.

It's nice to know what other people are doing.

Before you woke up, madam,

your husband did me the honour of calling me "the bloody head".

- That woman... - I don't have time for this.

When a decent man is telling you a fascinating story,

you shouldn't interrupt.

No excuses!

That woman...

Let me explain.

I'm the daughter of a brave officer. My name is Frasquetta Salero.

I started to attract men as a young girl.

Frasquetta, be modest!

But mom!

How can I be impolite to those elegant young men?

Did you drop something?

Too bad. If you had dropped that cross pendant,

I'd pick it up and keep it as a dear souvenir.

Frasquetta! Get away from the window!

Unfortunately that young man never showed up again.

My lovely wife.

You're so beautiful.

- Do you love your hubby? - I do.

- And nobody else? - Nobody.

- What's that, boy? - A letter for Madam Frasquetta.

Give it to me.

I'm her father.

Here.

A ring? What ring?

"I'm waiting and longing for you. Pena Flor".

Frasquetta?

Do you love me?

I do.

Nothing will stand in the way of our love.

Excellent, Don Ramiro!

If you're just as brave with noble Count Pena Flor,

he will no longer be a terror to husbands.

So what if I put an end to his love conquests?

I'll have to suffer consequences for this duel.

If I had one hundred doubloons, I'd go and hide on an island.

I'll offer you one hundred doubloons for this noble cause.

There was a murder yesterday. It was Count...

Pena Flor.

We found a letter on one of the thugs.

It said you offered

one hundred doubloons to kill him.

I never met Seńor Pena Flor.

Yesterday two men came with a promissory note for that sum,

which I signed a year ago.

You want to see it?

I'm from the criminal court. I'm not interested in transactions.

I have no further questions.

Sorry for bothering you.

Did you really pay somebody to kill that seńor?

Why? You don't know him.

I would go on a pilgrimage to St. Jacob of Compostella,

or even further, if I believed it would help me.

- Nice story. - Yes.

Strange things have been happening in our house ever since.

Take your one hundred doubloons back!

Don Diego!

I like that.

Needless to say,

I made up Count Pena Flor to upset my husband

and make him go on a pilgrimage.

The justice clerks and the thugs were paid people.

Now I get it. The bloody head!

I took you for somebody else.

Enough!

- I haven't finished yet. - Later. Duty calls.

Seńor Don Lopez, do you want to offend me?

Yes. There is no other way to get rid of you.

Your daddy will be glad.

So where was I?

That very night I found myself in totally different circumstances.

You're lucky it's only an injury. I could have killed you.

Easy. I'll take care of everything. Don't worry.

It's a pity you interrupted my story. It was getting interesting.

Listen.

That very night I found myself in totally different circumstances.

What happened?

Seńor Don Lopez.

Don't strain yourself.

- It's long. - Who is it from?

Don't be a child.

It's from fair Inez. It's settled.

What is it?

She wants you to meet her at her place tonight.

The wedding is tomorrow. Happy?

What place? The Moro house? How?

- Well? - The usual way.

- Their house is guarded. - The tried way.

Take it easy.

I'll take care of it.

I don't know what you would do without me.

Which window?

One, two, three. The third one.

Which one?

The third!

- This is the window of fair Inez. - My heart is pounding.

I'm touched, seńor. Please don't embarrass me.

I'm really grateful.

You have to go for it.

Yes.

When I clap my hands, enter the heavens.

- Ready? - Yes.

Up!

Balmy fragrance... jasmine.

Oh God!

Are you gone?

Yes!

Is there purgatory in the other world?

Yes! That's where I am!

Was there a storm that night?

Lightning was flashing. He got the wrong window.

Seńor, I found the purgatorial soul!

Where?

What are you talking about?

Seńor Toledo.

Listen.

No.

I'm ending my penance.

How did you find out?

Lopez Soarez told me.

- A merchant from Cadiz. - How did it happen?

- Busqueros got the wrong window. - Busqueros? Right.

Never met him.

Tell him to drop by. I want to know the details.

You think that lady who gave you her glove is still faithful to me?

- I'm sure. - Farewell.

I decided to find that nuisance of a man known in Madrid.

Please don't stop now.

Allow me to devote a few minutes to that man.

Frasquetta told her story to Busqueros.

He told it to Lopez Soarez,

who told it to Seńor Avadoro.

It's crazy.

When these stories begin, the listener thinks they'll end.

But one story creates another story and another.

Like quotients which can be divided infinitely.

I'm captain of the guard, not a philosopher.

Your math is dead numbers.

Dead numbers?

Zero, plus and minus one

gave Archimedes and Newton power equal to the gods.

Very noble people. What's the point of this?

We are like blind men lost in the streets of a strange city.

The streets lead to somewhere,

but we go back to the same places to get to our destination.

I see a few streets here which lead to nowhere.

If you find new combinations, everything will be clear.

Whatever man invents, man can work out.

I admit I don't follow.

Let's listen.

Cavalier Toledo became his own happy self again.

I went to look for that nuisance of a man.

I happened to meet him that very day.

I like you. You can be my servant.

Be thankful. New prospects are opening up before you.

I bet you haven't met many noblemen.

I can prove that I was raised like a nobleman.

I wasn't born a beggar. It's a twist of fate.

Good.

Let's go, seńor.

You may not like your duties at first.

You won't be paid.

Or get new clothes. As far as board...

Aren't you Seńor Don Busqueros, who helped Lopez Soarez?

Yes. That's me.

There would be a happy end if it weren't for the storm.

I got the wrong window. But I'm not through yet.

Cavalier Toledo would like to meet you, seńor.

Toledo? I'm honoured.

I found out that Lopez's father came from Cadiz and is staying...

in this house.

He waited for his son in vain and went out. Where?

Where can a provincial man go to? Well?

- To see the church. - Wrong, you noble tramp.

- To the tavern. - Which one?

The nearest one.

Seńor, it's not possible.

You must admit Cadiz is more important than Madrid.

What's more, Soarez, who was short of funds,

could do his trading owing to Levardez.

Later Moro, his beneficiary, had to go to court to get his money back.

The trial is still going on.

No. Soarez sued banker Moro to make him accept

not one but two million profit.

The Soarez family is one of the most respectable in Spain.

It's a fact. You have a big mouth. Go away.

I see that you're an honest merchant.

Your words do me honour. I'm Gaspar Soarez from Cadiz.

My name is Moraredo.

You are a godsend.

I can tell that you're a true connoisseur of life.

I'm at your service.

I sent my son here and I forbade him to use the tile of "Don".

- To associate with noblemen. - Very wise.

- And to use the sword. - I understand.

But my Lopez is Don Lopez now.

The only man he is close with is a nobleman Busqueros.

Unbelievable.

He had a duel with him and was thrown out of the window.

I want to marry him off.

Do you know any young lady from a respectable family?

I do.

Her father, a noble merchant, is very angry.

He said he would lock her away in a monastery

if she didn't pick a husband this week.

- I'd like to talk to her. - You'll meet her today.

In an inn?

- A lady from a respectable family? - Incognito. Time is short.

Seńor is paying. Goodbye.

Today you'll understand the true value of my friendship.

You must admit that I'm good at dealing with problems.

I judge from the way you stood up for me that you're

an expert on merchant matters.

- Excuse me, seńor... - Moraredo.

But your name is not known in merchant circles.

You know, seńor...

I assume you didn't have a chance to try

your hand at a business of your own.

Impertinence is not why I'm here.

I came because my father's anger forces me to seek salvation.

- I respect the Soarez family. - I am honoured, my lady.

You want to marry Miss Moro?

Miss Moro?

Aren't your intentions serious?

It's a misunderstanding!

If you can kneel before my sister, you're not too old to fight me.

Get your sword or jump out the window!

- What? - Your honour is at stake.

Daddy!

Son, I forbade you to associate with noblemen.

Daddy, it's just one. He's standing next to you.

You shouldn't have fought a duel with him.

Mind you, seńor. You're holding a sword.

Lopez, Lopez....

Why did you choose Miss Moro?

Seńor, you were just kneeling at her feet yourself.

Seńor Gaspar Soarez, punishment fits the crime.

We would be honoured if your son asked for my daughter's hand.

Instead he chose to sneak in through the window.

I'm sure it was all because of that dispute over the two million,

which you think I should accept.

Yes.

I will. Provided I can add another two million

and give it to your son along with my daughter's hand.

You did a good job.

Well done, seńor.

It's easy to see how this story goes on.

Lopez moved to his future father in law's house.

Inez will see to it that he gets well.

I want to hear more about that love affair.

Was this woman Frasquetta really so enticing?

I told that story to a young merchant.

Yes. Lopez Soarez passed it on to my friend.

That's how I heard about it.

Your memory is admirable.

Since you know her story, I'll tell you about her husband

and how he got to meet one unfortunate man.

Go on.

That very night I found myself in totally different circumstance.

Who are you?

See this sign? Satan sent me.

- Stop tormenting me! - What do you mean?

What about the one hundred doubloons

that you paid for the head of Count Pena Flor?

What do you want?

See this?

Before he died, he outbid you.

Don't stab me!

That was quite an hour.

You didn't disappoint me.

Excuse me for telling things that are sinful.

But you can learn a lot from that story.

What happened to Madam Cornandez?

She became a widow.

Later she married her lover and leads a blameless life.

There she is!

What? It's Dona Uscariz.

Frasquetta.

Help!

- I can't. - Out the window!

- She said I was her only lover. - There are other women.

Toledo?

- Seńor Toledo! - Run!

Don't panic!

I have to think it over.

Carefully this time.

- Seńor! - Farewell, my friends!

- Your sword. - No.

His life is quite exhausting.

Don't you think there should be a ladder under every window?

Just in case.

What's going on?

Officers of the guard are sorting out their differences.

- It must be a serious dilemma. - There were other reasons.

- You stand by your word? - I never take back what I say.

If I'm not mistaken, that brave officer was your father.

The chronicle of his duels mentions it.

To avoid feuds, he had two duels that day.

He wounded five men in the afternoon.

And six in the evening.

He did the right thing. Why get into feuds?

This is the end of the story.

You wanted to hear my adventures.

I hope your curiosity paid off.

It's time to say goodbye.

Saying goodbye, excuse me,

can be a sweet experience.

Seńor.

Important matters are calling.

But you said...

I don't think you have much time left, seńor.

Alfonse van Worden, we're waiting for you.

- Who are you? - My name will tell you nothing.

Welcome to Gomelez land.

You remember me as the hermit.

Now you see I'm the Gomelez sheik.

You're here because you haven't failed our hopes.

I'm captain of the guard.

It's time to reveal our secret.

The Prophet has blessed your love.

They will both be mothers soon.

We'll preserve our family line.

We deceived you for quite a long time.

We wanted to be sure that

your first night at Venta Quemada would bear fruit.

You're the only male descendant of our vanishing family line.

Everything you experienced was a planned game.

We wanted to test your honour and courage.

So the ghosts and evil spirits were your men?

- What about the kabbalist? - That's right.

So was Pacheco. He is a Basque acrobat.

He lost an eye while performing a dangerous trick.

And Velasquez? I won't believe it.

Yes.

This skeptic caused us a lot of trouble.

But we rest our hopes with Rebecca.

You'll find everything you saw and experienced in this book.

Maybe I can finally sort it all out.

You can write the rest yourself.

May Allah cover your head with the dew of happiness.

Kiss him, Zibelda.

I'll be happy to see him in your embrace.

Every time I see you, I'm afraid I won't see you again.

We may never meet again.

But we want to live in your memory forever.

Saying goodbye can be a sweet experience.

Now that I know everything, can you tell me the truth?

Who are you?

Close your eyes.

When you hear your name, follow us.

Now?

Will we make it before night?

Yes.

This time we will.

- Where have you been? - The mules ran away, seńor.

Let's be on our way. Hurry!

Reshoe him!

Comfort and peace - that's what our inn offers.

For a long time they thought I was doomed.

Everybody was overjoyed when I arrived.

Only the sheik was sad to see me

weak and in poor health.

Dinner for the seńor! Quick!

Two foreign ladies staying in this inn invite you to supper.

What? Where?

THE END

English subtitles: Iwona Morenc STUDIO PUBLISHING