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[ Horn honks ]

Bea?

The taxi's here.

Oh.

Thank you.

Evie, we haven't forgotten

anything, have we?

No, I don't think so.

Evie.

Are we going to sell

the House of Eliott?

Well, isn't that the conclusion

we came to last night?

Did we?

Bea, we'd be wealthy.

We'd never be beholden to anyone

ever again.

We'd have the freedom to do

whatever we choose to do.

Yes, but what about the offers

from Jack and Alexander?

Bea, even if we did accept

their money,

it wouldn't really solve things

in the long term, would it?

BEA:

Thank you.

We haven't missed anything,

have we?

No. We've been through it

a million times.

Right.

Telephone Hector

and accept the offer.

I really am most terribly sorry.

It's very unusual

for them to be late.

I'm prepared to wait

a little longer, Benjamin.

As you wish.

If you'll excuse me, I'll just

go and see if they're here.

[ Sighs ]

- Good morning.

- Good morning, Alice.

I have Dame Caroline Troy

in my office.

She has her producer with her,

a Mr. Benjamin Kendrick.

- They're very eager to see you.

- Can't you deal with it?

I have some important business

to attend to here.

Dame Caroline?

She's a wonderful actress.

I'd really quite like

to meet her.

Bea, I think our business

could wait, don't you?

Well, all right.

Bring them through to reception,

please.

Thank you.

I'll telephone Maison Gilles

later.

Elizabeth.

I didn't expect you.

I thought you were going to stay

in the country.

I've changed my mind.

It's all right, isn't it?

Of course.

Besides, we need to talk.

Have you reconsidered

the divorce?

No.

Something much more important.

It's Philip.

He's been playing truant.

We have to go to the school

and discuss it.

I see.

I'm sure you can spare the time

for our children.

After all,

you have a lot of that now.

[ Sighs ]

Yes. Of course.

We must go to the school.

I'll arrange an appointment with

the headmaster and let you know.

By the way, Lord Waycott called

at the hall over the weekend,

hoping to see you.

He wondered

if you'd telephone him.

If I must.

The entire show?

No.

Only Dame Caroline's costumes.

And what exactly

would that involve?

Five outfits --

two for the day,

a couple for the evening,

perhaps something for leisure.

Dame Caroline is in rehearsal

at the moment.

Her new play opens next month,

and I trust it will be

as successful

as our current production

in every way.

That's the sort of look

I'm after.

Something similar

to what you're both wearing now.

What we're wearing?

The part I play is that

of a smart middle-class

businesswoman,

so the clothes need to

reflect this.

I'm after something

that's simple in line,

looks appropriate,

and is comfortable to wear.

Are you interested?

Well, yes.

But because we have

certain commitments,

we will need some time in which

to consider your request.

- Of course.

- Thank you.

You appreciate, Miss Eliott,

you will need to let us know

quite soon.

Yes.

Naturally.

By the end of next week.

We shall promise to do so.

- Goodbye.

Thank you.

MADGE:

Right, then.

I've just got to finish

the sleeves

and it's all ready for Miss

Hewley's fitting this afternoon.

Madge, would you wear this?

I don't know.

It's very nice,

but not the sort of thing

you could wear every day, is it?

Oh, yeah,

but everything we make here

is usually for a special

occasion, though, isn't it?

If I had money and didn't

have to make me own clothes,

I wouldn't come

to a fashion house.

- No?

- No.

I'd go to one

of them big stores --

you know,

like Bourne and Hollingsworth.

They've got

some lovely things there.

Plain, but smart.

So, what do you think?

Uh, that's a very good idea,

Charles.

BEA: You are not entirely happy

with Dame Caroline's request.

I don't feel

it's an appropriate commission

for the House of Eliott.

Alice, what do you mean

by appropriate?

Well, unlike

some other commissions,

the popular theater

does not offer

the same element of prestige

that's expected from a house

of our standing.

Standing?

I wasn't aware we had one

at the moment.

Alice, we'll discuss this later.

- Thank you.

- Yes.

Discuss what?

Mm.

Dame Caroline Troy.

Alice doesn't approve, does she?

She thinks it will lower

our standing.

Alice sees us as a couture house

catering solely for the rich

and titled.

Which is precisely what we are,

Evie.

And which is precisely

why we should be considering

making our designs available

to a wider clientele.

Evie, what's brought

this sudden change of thought?

Certain things

Dame Caroline said.

And also something I just heard

Madge and Tilly discussing

about the kind of clothes

they'd like to wear.

Well, let's be honest, Evie.

Madge and Tilly aren't exactly

our type of customer.

No, that isn't what I meant,

exactly.

What I'm talking about

is professional working women,

like us, who wouldn't normally

come to a couture house.

Perhaps that's the type

of customer

we should be trying to attract.

Well, this is all

very interesting,

but haven't you forgotten

one important fact?

- Which is?

- That a couple of hours ago,

we had agreed to sell

the House of Eliott.

[ Whistle blows ]

[ Boys shouting in distance ]

I don't enjoy being ostracized,

and I'm sure you don't either.

But we must endeavor to keep

the few friends we still have.

I did speak to Lord Waycott.

- And?

- It's a tempting offer.

I'm having lunch with him

tomorrow to discuss it.

Good.

[ Bell chiming ]

- ELIZABETH: Alexander?

- Hmm?

Will you talk to Philip?

He's always listened to you.

Yes. Of course.

I'll talk to William.

The headmaster seemed

more concerned

about the effect the problem

was having on Philip's work

rather than the truancy itself.

Yes. I know.

I took all that in.

Good.

You gave the distinct impression

of being somewhere else.

Elizabeth.

I know you have a lot

on your mind at the moment,

but you could at least make

an effort.

I am!

Lord Montford.

This way, if you please.

Thank you.

Are you coming?

Come along.

Come on, Willie.

[ Birds chirping ]

So, where did you go?

To the village.

You wouldn't tell

the headmaster why.

Will you tell me?

It doesn't matter!

Yes, Philip, it does.

Your mother and I

are very worried about you.

Are you?

What's that supposed to mean?

You and Mother...

are going to divorce.

Where did you get that from?

Please tell me.

The whole school knows

about your resignation.

Yes. I'm sorry.

I should have told you.

It wasn't a good time.

What else do you know?

Something about a tart

you've been seen with.

What did you say?

That's what the boys call her.

[ Sighs ]

I don't understand.

William keeps asking me

questions.

I can't answer them.

I had to get away.

Yes.

I see.

I'm sorry.

So am I, Philip.

So am I.

William.

Come along, you two.

Bea?

- Bea.

- What is it?

Wake up.

I need to talk to you.

- Oh, tomorrow, Evie.

- No. Now.

Please?

Come on.

[ Sighs ]

Well, what do you think?

About the idea itself

or the question of bringing out

a new collection?

Both.

Well, I think the idea

of designing clothes

for the professional

working woman is wonderful.

I just wish we'd thought of it

six months ago.

You do realize

this could open our door

to a completely different type

of customer.

Yes.

But?

The practicalities, Evie.

We have to design

this collection,

make it, display it,

advertise it.

Which, of course, needs money.

Alexander?

Jack.

I still have the check

he gave me.

It's very generous.

It would see us through

this collection.

I don't know.

Why don't you go and see Jack?

Talk to him about it.

He still is a director.

I feel we'd be taking advantage

of him.

That's not true.

[ Sighs ]

If we could achieve this,

we wouldn't have to sell

the House of Eliott.

Oh, Evie.

[ Sighs ]

If you go and see Jack,

I'll go and see Alexander.

We can come to some sort

of a decision afterwards.

ALEXANDER: Is it Beatrice who

won't accept my financial help?

I don't think it's being offered

for the right reasons.

- Oh, you won't accept it?

- No.

- Why?

- [ Chuckles ]

Alexander, the business doesn't

really interest you, does it?

I just don't like to see

such talent go to waste.

That's all.

And you feel guilty.

I won't deny

that all the publicity,

coupled with my resignation,

contributed to your problems.

Alexander,

it was as much my fault.

It doesn't matter

what the reasons are.

It matters to me.

Then you won't let me help you.

- I can't force you.

- No.

This isn't a good time.

You obviously have other things

on your mind.

I have a business appointment.

I must go.

I'll see you soon, though,

won't I?

Of course.

So, you look very well.

So do you.

Look, Jack.

I've --

Evie spoke to me

on the telephone.

I'm glad you're reconsidering

my offer.

I hope there'll be enough to get

you through the new collection

so you won't have to sell.

Thank you.

Jack, you've always had faith

in us, but...

what if we fail?

You won't.

- Please be realistic.

- All right.

If it doesn't work out,

I can bear the loss.

- Really?

- Really.

Well, thank you.

It's very generous of you.

Good. That's settled.

You can cash that check.

Well, I still have to discuss it

with Evie.

Well, Evie gave me

the distinct impression --

Never mind.

You discuss it with her.

So that's business settled.

Now, will you stay for dinner?

No.

No.

I'd better get back.

All right.

Well, look.

Um, my new film is opening

next week.

Uh, I'd like you to come

as my guest.

Evie's invited.

It's...It's a new direction

for me.

I'd value your opinion.

All right.

Thank you.

Good.

[ Sighs ]

Well...

Goodbye, Jack.

Goodbye.

And thank you once again.

[ Door opens ]

Hello.

Hello.

How did it go with Jack?

Fine.

Well?

Did you accept his offer?

Well, I want to discuss it

with you first.

Bea, I thought

we discussed this.

Well, we --

we hadn't agreed anything.

Or at least I hadn't.

How did it go with Alexander?

I turned his offer down.

Without even discussing it

with me?

Bea, I could never accept

his money.

Yes. Well, that's how I feel

about Jack.

Well, we have no choice now

but to accept Jack's offer.

[ Sighs ]

Evie, are we deceiving ourselves

about this collection?

Perhaps we should really

reconsider Gilles' offer.

Too late.

I've turned him down.

- We're not selling.

- What?

I'm sorry, Bea, but I know

what I've done is right.

Evie...we used to make

these decisions together.

I know!

But I just thought

I couldn't let Gilles win.

I didn't actually tell you

the real reason I left Paris.

Gilles started to interfere.

He wanted my talent,

but on his terms,

and I wasn't prepared

to compromise.

So that's why I left.

And he wants to buy

the House of Eliott

to make some sort of point?

Something like that.

Well, it seems

a very expensive way to do it.

I know, which is why

I've turned him down.

So, Bea, don't reprimand me,

please.

I wasn't going to do that, Evie.

But you've left us

with no other choice

but to accept Jack's offer.

Bea, do you believe

in this collection or not?

Yes.

It's got to work.

[ Indistinct conversations ]

Oh, Evie.

I'm beginning to think

this wasn't such a good idea

after all.

It'll be all right.

I never thought I'd be nervous

being out with Jack.

I'm here.

- You look wonderful.

- Thank you.

Come through.

Alexander.

Glad you could make it.

I wouldn't miss this, Jack.

Beatrice.

Well, I suggest we go

straight in.

[ Up-tempo music playing ]

You honestly liked it?

Yes.

And I don't think we were alone.

So different

from your other films, Jack.

MAN:

Wonderful film.

You're very kind.

- Mr. Maddox? Jack Maddox?

- Yes.

- Very impressive film.

- Thank you.

I'd like to speak with you

about your work.

Mayhaps we can meet

in a day or two.

I am staying at The Ritz.

- Telephone me.

- Of course.

Um, Harriet, my dear.

If you'll excuse us.

Elmer Jeffard-Hendry.

- You know him?

- Not personally.

He's one of America's

most prolific producers.

I didn't know he'd been invited.

But, Jack,

that's a good sign, isn't it?

I suppose so.

[ Laughs ]

Next stop, Hollywood.

Um, would you excuse us

a moment?

Of course.

I didn't think we'd ever get

a moment alone.

How are you?

I've missed you.

I'm sorry about the other day.

Oh, it was my fault.

No, it wasn't.

I just had other thoughts

on my mind.

Yes.

Something's worrying you.

What is it?

Evie...I've been offered a job

in Italy.

Italy?

As ambassador.

I might be going to Rome.

Nothing's settled, of course.

Lord Waycott put me up for it.

Obviously somebody has a regard

for me.

Uh, when might this be?

Well, I'll be leaving in a week

or so --

just to see how the land lies.

Whether the job appeals.

It's a kind of exploratory trip.

Not for long.

Will Elizabeth be going

with you?

No.

It's just that I might not have

the chance of seeing you

before I go.

Well, that's all right,

because we're quite busy

with the collection,

so that works out quite well.

Alexander, do you still love me?

Of course.

Jack, your offer --

We'd like to accept --

that is, if you haven't changed

your mind.

No.

Well, good news.

You mark my words.

The tide is turning

for the House of Eliott.

Well, if it is,

it's thanks to you.

Jack, I don't see Emma Casson

here tonight.

No.

My leading lady couldn't come.

Couldn't or didn't want to?

I'm sorry, Jack,

but we've got to go.

What? You're not staying

for the party?

No.

I'm a little tired.

I'm afraid you'll have to

excuse me as well.

Right.

Well, I'll get you a taxi.

That's all right. I'll take

Beatrice and Evie home.

Oh, no.

I don't mind getting a taxi.

I insist.

Goodbye.

[ Sighs ]

He's going to Italy?

He might be.

Are you and Jack all right?

Well, I-I accepted his offer,

if that's what you mean.

Good.

[ Sighs ]

Well, we have a lot of work

to do.

Mm.

I know we have this collection

to design,

but I do think we should accept

Dame Caroline's commission

- for the show.

- I agree.

Despite what Alice says.

Well, there will be

a lot of work on.

We'll have to see if we can get

Betty and Agnes

and the others back.

That's if they haven't found

alternative employment.

It'll be just like the old days.

[ Laughs ]

Didn't think

I'd be coming back here, eh?

No, not after the way

they treated us.

Still.

A bit of the devil you know.

Yeah.

Hey, Bet?

You sure we're doing

the right thing?

Anybody else offered you

a better job?

Still.

Got to make sure

it's worth my while this time.

Hmm?

BETTY: And there's a lot more

where these come from,

all at cost price.

Come on, girls.

First come, first served.

Did you nick these, Betty?

I did not!

Welcome back, Betty.

Well, why are they so cheap,

then, Betty?

Because when I worked on

the fish store down the market,

I made a lot of useful friends.

Yeah. Mr. Cod, Mrs. Plaice,

and old Rock Salmon.

- [ Laughter ]

- Come on.

I'll tell you something

for nothing, Tilly.

That little job

helped keep us fed

after we'd been given

our marching orders from here.

- MADGE: Betty!

- It's true.

Hey.

She's in my seat.

Now, come on, girls.

Who can I interest

in some of these?

Betty, uh, after work would be

a better time.

- Good morning, Betty.

- Mrs. Burgoyne.

Joseph, I thought we'd ordered

the blue and green silks

from Bryce's last week.

Oh, we had, but the new orders

for the collection

took priority, I'm afraid.

Well, my clients still expect

their fittings to be on time.

We must look after the customers

we have.

I'll talk to Bryce's

this morning.

This particular collection

seems to be taking precedence

over everything.

Well, surely that is

more important at the moment.

Did you ever find a job, Agnes?

No.

I did try ever so hard.

But I found a new young man.

His name's Perce.

Works at a printer's.

- You're courting, then, are you?

- Yeah.

But he don't know it yet.

[ Laughing ]

Oh, aye.

So, what's the dirt, then, eh?

What ever do you mean, Betty?

Oh, come off it.

You know.

- Miss Beatrice, Miss Evie.

- That's enough, Betty.

You've been back five minutes

and your mouth hasn't stopped.

All right, all right.

I'm just asking.

Lady Montford still come here,

does she?

Well, as a matter of fact,

she does.

And what's more, Betty, she's in

the fitting room right now.

As usual, Beatrice,

an excellent design.

- Thank you.

- You've never let me down.

I'm glad you think so.

This is going to be difficult

Beatrice, but --

You won't be coming to us

anymore.

I'm sorry.

Elizabeth, please don't be.

I am grateful you came to us

for as long as you did.

It was a difficult decision.

But with Alexander going away, I

don't know where I'm going to be

or what I'm going to be doing.

Elizabeth, please.

You don't have to explain.

I hope, though, that we will

retain our friendship

and maybe see each other

occasionally.

Oh, yes.

Of course.

And now, if you don't mind,

I'd like to see Evangeline.

Evie?

Yes.

I'd like us to part civilly.

Yes.

Of course.

I'll see if she's available.

Thank you.

[ Door closes ]

Evangeline.

I just wanted to thank you

for all the work you've done

for me on my wardrobe

and to say goodbye.

Well, it was mainly Beatrice.

And to wish you luck

for your new collection.

I'm sure it will be

all the rage.

Thank you.

I'll never give him up.

I'm determined.

[ Sighs ]

ELMER: I was very impressed

with "The Strikers," Jack.

- You thought it worked?

- Oh, sure.

You could have had

a little more action.

That would have upset

the personal drama

of the characters.

Maybe.

Jack, you ever considered

working in the States?

I've considered it.

No one's ever asked me.

[ Chuckles ]

Harriet, this is Jack Maddox.

- How do you do?

- Jack.

Elmer and I can't stop talking

about how good your movie was.

So, what's it gonna be today?

More sights

or another shopping expedition?

Since we're not going to Paris

this year,

I thought I'd try out some

of the new London designers.

Now, I've got appointments

most of the afternoon, so...

- I'll see you at dinner tonight.

- Okay.

But don't order anything

in turquoise.

It doesn't suit you.

Yes, Elmer.

Well, nice meeting you, Jack.

No doubt we'll be seeing more

of you while we're in town.

I hope so.

Charming wife you have.

Still got a great figure,

don't you think?

Well, yes.

That woman, Jack,

has kept me happy for 25 years.

Isn't that something?

- Yes, it is.

- You married?

Yes.

I'd like to meet her sometime.

Jack, I've got to see

some distribution people.

I'd like us to talk further.

Perhaps I can see some more

of your work?

- That can be arranged.

- Great.

Ring me here.

Nice meeting with you.

- If you'll excuse me.

- Of course.

[ Vehicles passing ]

If you'd care to take a seat,

we won't keep you long.

Thank you.

Please excuse me disturbing you,

but we saw your play a few days

ago and really enjoyed it.

Oh, thank you.

Harriet Jeffard-Hendry.

- A pleasure to meet you.

- Oh, no.

That's my pleasure.

I've admired your work

for some time.

Really?

I loved your interpretation of

Gertrude --

in the New York "Hamlet"

a few years ago.

Really?

I'm flattered you remember.

I had a happy time in America.

Oh.

Well, we'd like to see you back.

How kind.

Who knows?

Do you know, you ought to talk

to my husband, Elmer.

Now, he's a great admirer.

Knows a lot about the theater.

How interesting.

Dame Caroline, would you like

to come through to my office?

Thank you.

So nice meeting you.

Likewise.

Mrs. Jeffard-Hendry,

this is Beatrice Eliott.

How do you do?

I understand you'd like to

discuss some designs.

I would.

Thank you.

Come this way.

Yes.

These are very good.

But there are a few adjustments

that I would like to suggest.

Naturally.

- Please.

- Thank you.

My sister will join us shortly.

You and your sister

are very close, aren't you?

Well, we have been through a lot

together, yes.

And has Beatrice supported you

through your present

difficulties?

I beg your pardon.

Oh, my dear.

You have every right to tell me

to mind my own business,

but really, one couldn't avoid

the newspapers.

Miss Troy,

I don't wish to be rude.

Oh, look, look. I'm sorry.

I've embarrassed you.

I-I didn't mean to be

so insensitive.

It's just that a similar thing

happened to me.

I'm sorry. I apologize.

I've spoken out of turn.

What do you mean,

a similar thing?

Many years ago --

before you were born...

...I fell in love

with a married man.

I was about your age,

and he was considerably older

and a public figure.

My dear, our affair

was the scandal of the decade.

Does it sound familiar?

He was also forced to resign.

It was the end of his career.

What happened then?

Well, his wife,

who never really loved him,

finally agreed to divorce him.

We got married,

and we had a glorious 15 years

together before he died.

- Well, I'm sorry.

- Oh, no, no. Don't be.

We were very happy.

And it was well worth

all the embarrassment

we had to go through

once the press got hold

of the story.

So, you see, I do understand

what you might be experiencing.

You must have been very much

in love.

We were.

I assume it's the same for you.

It is.

Miss Troy, I'm curious.

Is this why you came to us?

Well, I suppose there's

an element of that, yes.

But...

But mainly because I do think

you're both original

and talented.

Well, I'm grateful

you've told me.

If it's of any use.

You deserve to be happy.

Thank you.

Fortuny, Poiret, Patou --

They all showed in New York?

[ Chuckles ]

I went to all their collections.

We're not as backward in America

as you may think.

- Oh, I wasn't suggesting that.

- Oh, I know.

But a lot of Europeans think

that fashion and style

can only be seen in Paris

or London.

Well, we may not have

the designers yet,

but we're getting there.

Now, we're ahead in manufacture.

There is hardly a good design

that isn't in our stores within

two weeks of a Paris collection.

But, Mrs. Jeffard-Hendry,

all our designs are original

and cannot be seen

anywhere else.

Well, that's the reason

I'm here.

Oh, I've also been

to Maison Gilles and Hussars.

I don't believe in patronizing

just one establishment.

No.

Of course not.

Well, I hope we have something

that appeals to you.

- I'm sure of it.

- I shall leave you with Alice,

who will show you

our latest range.

Thank you for your time.

It was a pleasure.

- Goodbye.

Now, Mrs. Burgoyne, what is

Dame Caroline Troy ordering?

I beg your pardon.

That lady has a lot of style.

[ Chuckles ]

I bet you think you're lucky

getting her custom.

Well, if the play is a failure,

at least it will be

an elegant failure.

I'm sure it'll be as successful

as your last play.

Beatrice, the one thing

I've learned about my profession

is never be complacent.

Just when you think

you can do no wrong,

someone up there proves

otherwise.

I'm sure not with this

particular play.

Well, we'll see.

Anyway, these are

absolutely perfect.

I knew I was right

in coming to you.

Thank you.

- Goodbye.

How long will you be?

A week or two,

depending on the arrangements.

I'm glad you've officially

accepted the position.

I didn't have much choice.

- Well, you could have said no.

- And done what?

You know how I hate

doing nothing.

Well, goodbye, Elizabeth.

I'll see you when I return.

- I'll still be here.

- [ Door closes ]

Do you have any doubts?

No.

This feels absolutely right

to me.

Good, but we really mustn't

become complacent with this.

Well, I think it's

your best collection yet.

- Good.

- Thank you, Charles.

Ooh.

Those are nice.

This one's

my particular favorite.

I wouldn't mind wearing

something like that myself.

Oh, can I take your order now,

madame?

[ Laughter ]

Well, you can,

but not with those prices.

Tilly?

Joseph.

Mrs. Burgoyne.

I think this will be

very popular when they're shown.

Yes, Charles.

That's what concerns me.

Let me see.

What's the matter

with Mrs. Burgoyne?

What do you mean, Mr. Wint?

She's not making a very good job

of hiding her true feelings.

Oh, she'll be all right

once the collection is shown

and proves to be

a great success.

Do you think so?

I wish I had your confidence.

You obviously haven't.

[ Projector clicking ]

And that's it --

a cross section

of what I consider to be

the best of my work.

Thank you, Jack.

I appreciate the trouble

you've taken.

Oh, it's no trouble.

I, uh, I hope that you enjoyed

what you saw.

Yeah.

Your work has depth and variety.

Thank you.

But sometimes you go too deep.

You don't get on with the story.

Ah?

Anguish and passion are great

for moments.

But...if I have to be honest,

Jack,

you tend to linger on them

too long.

An American audience likes

its passion and short and sweet,

to the point.

I see.

Well, I'm sorry to have wasted

your time.

What do you mean?

We seem to have different views

on making films.

You mean to say you don't want

to come and work for me?

I beg your pardon.

If you're interested, I'd like

you to come to the States,

film this.

This is an offer?

Read it, think about it,

read it again, then we'll talk.

I can't wait.

Oh, there's time.

Harriet and me are holding

a special party.

It's our 25th

wedding anniversary.

We're gonna have a few friends

to celebrate.

I'd like you to come.

Oh. Please bring Mrs. Maddox

with you.

I somehow doubt that she'll be

able to make it, but --

Well, the invite is there.

And if there's an opportunity,

we'll talk.

I look forward to it.

Thank you.

No.

Thank you, Jack.

You've both worked

remarkably hard.

I couldn't be more thrilled.

Thank you.

We enjoyed the challenge.

Could all the outfits be sent

direct to the theater

in time for the costume parade

tomorrow?

Of course.

And we shall be there to see to

any last-minute adjustments.

- Thank you.

- Oh, Dame Caroline.

How nice!

Oh, Mrs. Jeffard-Hendry.

Would you tell your husband

that I've received

the manuscript for his film,

and, thank you,

but I really haven't had

a chance to read it yet.

Don't worry.

Listen, I'm glad

I bumped into you.

I was going to send

an invitation.

Invitation?

A little party.

Elmer and I are celebrating

a quarter of a century together.

Now, it's no big affair,

but I'd like you to come.

Oh, thank you.

And...you two as well.

BENJAMIN:

Ah. That looks good.

Um, might I suggest,

Mr. Kendrick

that we dispense with the scarf?

I find it too distracting.

Do you think, Evie?

Yes.

I agree.

Caroline, try it

without the scarf.

Right.

That's such a good line on you.

How does that feel?

Lovely.

Absolutely perfect.

BENJAMIN: Ready to move on

to the next one?

EVIE: Yes.

Thanks.

Bring the other one, would you?

[ Indistinct conversations ]

[ Bell rings ]

Dame Caroline.

Oh, my.

Twenty-five years.

It seems such a long time.

Oh, Evangeline,

it passes in a moment

when you've been happy

as we have.

Well, I hope when I'm married,

it will last just as long.

Nothing like it.

Oh, excuse me.

I've got to say hello

to Dame Caroline.

If I may, I'd like to talk

to the two of you later.

Oh, Bea, I'm sorry.

I didn't mean to be

so insensitive.

No.

It's all right, Evie.

I do hope you have

a happier marriage.

Seven curtain calls.

Thank you.

The play did go down

rather well.

Dame Caroline!

[ Applause ]

Well, now.

Yes, I-I have read

your manuscript.

I'll leave the two of you.

What do you think?

Charming --

albeit a slight story.

Oh.

Uh, it could lead to a lot

of work for you in the States.

Well, not for me, I'm afraid.

I'm so sorry.

Okay.

Well, I'm sorry, too.

No hard feelings.

Enjoy the party.

Thank you.

I will.

Excuse me.

Jack.

Nice to see you.

Elmer, I've read the manuscript.

Why don't we talk later?

- All right.

- HARRIET: Elmer.

Oh. Excuse me.

The lady calls.

Bea. Evie.

I didn't know you knew

the Jeffard-Hendrys.

Harriet's just become

a new customer.

And, of course,

we've just designed the costumes

- for Dame Caroline's new play.

- Of course.

- Congratulations.

- Thank you.

And the new collection --

How is that?

- Nearly finished.

- It's going to be good, Jack.

I don't doubt it.

Well...

Well, I'll just, uh,

go to the cloakroom.

Evie has such a convenient sense

of timing.

[ Laughs ]

But things have really improved

at the House of Eliott, Jack.

- It's all thanks to you.

- And your hard work.

No, without

your financial support and...

well, all your encouragement

throughout the years,

I don't think

we could have managed it.

I very much doubt that's true,

but thank you nonetheless.

Ladies and gentlemen --

Don't worry.

It's not gonna be

some fancy speech.

I just wanted to thank you

for being here

and for sharing with us

in this special occasion.

And to thank my lovely wife

for always being there

when she was needed.

All right.

Bring her on, fellas.

[ Fanfare plays ]

[ Murmuring, applause ]

Are you quite certain

about this?

- Yes.

- Absolutely?

Elizabeth, please.

I'm just making sure.

That's all.

It's going to change things

for me as well.

I know.

I'm quite sure.

I'll make the necessary

arrangements, then.

Yes.

The success of your designs

created just as much interest

as the play itself.

I must say, we've had a lot

of orders from new customers,

and that's as a direct result

of the play.

You both deserve it,

and I shall insist you do

my wardrobe for my next show.

- We'd certainly be interested.

- I'm so glad.

- Then we'd all meet again, then.

- Oh, yes.

Oh, no, no. Please don't.

Don't get up.

Well, I hope I'm as happy

and assured as she is

when I reach her age.

She certainly knows

what she wants.

May I drive you ladies home?

Oh, yes, Jack, please.

Hey. We haven't had the chance

to speak all evening.

Jack, are you ready to talk now?

- Well, I was just about to --

- No. That's all right.

- We'll get a taxi.

- You're sure?

Yes.

Good night.

Please telephone.

All right.

- Where would you like to meet?

- I'll be right with you.

Girls -- um, ladies.

[ Both chuckle ]

Uh, it's obviously not a good

time to go into details now,

but would you be interested

in designing the stars' clothes

for my next movie?

You would like us to do it?

What do you think?

Well...we don't know

what to say.

Um...

I'll ring tomorrow.

Let's meet, and I'll outline

what's on my mind.

- Good night.

Jack, what did you think

of the story, then?

[ Clears throat ]

It certainly has possibilities.

Good. Good.

However, I would like to suggest

a few changes.

Certain areas need

a complete rethink.

Oh, that's interesting.

I'm...I'm sure you've thought

a lot about it.

The thing is, Jack,

I don't want to change anything.

What?

Nothing at all?

You've got it.

I see.

[ Sighs ]

I'm sorry.

I couldn't do it as it stands.

I don't believe in it.

You don't have to believe in it.

You just use your skill

for what's there.

I know it'll play.

No.

I can't work like that.

You're turning me down?

[ Sighs ]

It seems that way.

Okay.

Great shame, Jack.

This movie would have been good

for you.

[ Clicks tongue ]

That's a chance

I'll have to take.

Goodbye.

Yes, Elizabeth.

I'm sorry I haven't telephoned

before now.

Yes, I can do that.

All right.

I won't tell Evie.

Tomorrow.

Goodbye.

No, she's not here.

Of course we can talk.

It's lovely to hear your voice

again.

What? Here?

Well, do you think

that's a very good idea?

All right.

All right. I'll see you here

tomorrow night, then.

Thank you for a lovely lunch.

A pleasure.

Now, you'll let me know,

like, tomorrow?

We promise.

Look forward to that.

Goodbye.

- Goodbye.

Elmer Jeffard-Hendry

is a very persuasive man.

EVIE: You mean what he's

offering us is very persuasive.

BEA: It's three times

what we were offered

for Dame Caroline Troy,

and it's not nearly

so much work.

Is that important?

I really didn't think very much

of the story.

Well, no, nor did I.

But it will improve

our bank balance, Evie,

and that is important.

These are extraordinary.

You know,

I predict this collection

is going to open a lot of doors

for you.

It's started already.

Elmer Jeffard-Hendry

has asked us to do some designs

for his next film.

Really?

Which one?

Well, it's about

a rich middle-aged woman

with a terminal illness.

- Ah. That one.

- Do you know it?

Yes. I turned it down.

It's too sentimental.

Ah.

"Ah"?

Well, Jack, we couldn't afford

to turn it down.

Do you think we've made

a mistake?

No.

No, not at all.

I think you have everything

to gain by doing it.

It's not your type of film

anyway.

- What are you going to do next?

- Nothing definite.

I'm not sure America is ready

for me yet.

But Germany's bought

"The Strikers" for distribution.

So, interesting to see

what reaction it gets there.

Thank you.

Beatrice, please forgive

all this subterfuge.

Is Alexander still in Italy?

No.

He's back.

Ah.

Beatrice, you and I have been

friends for a long time,

and I didn't want to leave

without saying goodbye properly.

Where are you going?

Italy with Alexander.

- I see.

- Do you?

You knew

I could never give him up.

It was his suggestion

that I went with him.

What do you mean?

Lord Waycott is an old

family friend.

He found out

about the ambassadorship in Rome

and persuaded

a few prominent people

that Alexander should be given

another chance.

It was, of course,

a condition of acceptance

that his wife accompany him.

So you actually engineered this.

I had to do something.

Anyway, what are friends for?

But what if he had refused

to take the job?

Beatrice, Alexander didn't have

a choice.

But he'd resigned.

He'd sacrificed everything

for --

Evangeline?

Not quite.

That might have been

the impression that was given.

Meaning?

Alexander was forced to resign.

- Yes, because of Evie.

- No.

Because he mishandled the affair

with Ralph Saroyan and the bank.

He would otherwise

have been dismissed.

- It was nothing to do with Evie?

- No.

Many people lost a lot of money,

Beatrice --

and the satisfaction of seeing

Ralph Saroyan imprisoned.

They blamed Alexander for not

having dealt with it sooner.

His relationship with your

sister was used as an excuse.

He has deceived Evie.

He has deceived me.

But I will stand by him.

What sort of a marriage

will that be?

A socially acceptable one.

Elizabeth, if you expect me

to tell Evie this...

No.

Alexander is going to.

In fact, he's probably

telling her right now.

EVIE:

So, will you be going soon?

Next week.

They want me to start

straightaway.

I see.

Well, then I shall come

with you.

The business is doing well here,

so it won't take me long

to arrange things.

I can work in Italy.

Evangeline, you cannot come.

Elizabeth will be with me.

An ambassador has to have

a wife.

I have no choice.

You must understand.

I could have been your wife.

Evie, don't.

You know that Elizabeth

will never give me a divorce.

What could we do?

What future do we have?

We would have each other.

It's not enough.

You know that.

What else can I say except...

that I resigned because of you

and that I will always love you?

I know.

I'm just being selfish.

No.

No, I'm the one

who's being selfish.

You see,

I can't bear doing nothing.

At least this gives me a chance

to regain some respectability.

Can you understand that?

We're all trapped

in this ridiculous situation.

Elizabeth --

She doesn't really want to come.

But she feels she has a duty

to support me.

I understand.

Evie.

[ Voice breaking ]

Evie. Oh, God.

Beatrice.

Alexander.

Have you done your duty?

That's hardly fair.

Did you tell Evie

why you really resigned?

It would have served no purpose.

Why didn't you tell her

the truth?

You'd no intention of

sacrificing anything for Evie,

did you?

No, I didn't think you did.

[ Door opens ]

Evie.

Alexander's gone.

I know.

I was with Elizabeth.

[ Voice breaking ]

The pain is so hard to bear.

I know.

I just want to die.

No, you don't.

You've got everything

to live for.

Evie, we've just designed

our best collection ever.

It's going to be

very successful.

House of Eliott

will really surprise everyone.

It means nothing

without Alexander.

Alexander is a fine man, Evie.

He really loved you.

But you must let him go.

He did what he had to because

he didn't want to hurt you.

You must...understand that.

I do.

We had to sacrifice our love

to save his career

and his family.

He resigned because of me.

Yes.

I understand it.

I accept it.

But, Bea, why does it have to be

so painful?

Oh, Evie.

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