Original subtitles

Her Majesty, Love

Such bad manners!

Fred! I should've known!

This is no place for popping, Mr. von Wellingen. But for dancing!

I'd be delighted!

♫ I'm thinking of Maedi, all night through

♫ Since Maedi started flirting with me

♫ I'm thinking of Maedi, all the time

♫ Of Maedi, of Maedi, of Maedi...

♫ I'm thinking of Maedi, all night through

♫ She's heaven on earth to me

♫ I know why, but I'm not stupid

♫ I won't tell

I'm thinking of Maedi, all night through.

Because Maedi started flirting with me.

I'm thinking of Maedi, all the time.

Of Maedi, of Maedi, of Maedi...

♫ I'm thinking of Maedi, all night through

♫ She's heaven on earth to me

I know why, but I'm not stupid, I won't tell.

♫ I'm thinking of Maedi, all night through

♫ Since Maedi started flirting with me

♫ I'm thinking of Maedi, all the time

♫ Of Maedi, of Maedi

-Help! Help! Mercy! -Pardon me, sweetheart!

Well, one of us three excellent creatures

must be dear to your loving heart.

-Just look at me! -Or at me!

Gentlemen, I'll grant you anything your heart desires.

Anything?

As long as it is listed here.

Cocktails, whiskey, champagne, the green, the red, the yellow...

Stop with the colours. If that's all you're offering...

Something for the soul.

Listen, moron, "soul" is taking it too far.

There are other body parts on a woman.

I beg you, where do you think we are here, Mr. lawyer?

In the bar-room.

Is this the way you talk about women?

Let me tell you my thoughts about the fairer sex.

There are ladles, there are women, there are broads.

You shall never confuse a lady with a woman,

a woman with a broad,

or a broad with a lady.

Of course there are ladies who act like ladies

and dress like women but who are actually broads.

On the other hand there are broads who dress like ladies,

but who are damsels at best.

Speaking of damsels. Here, the greatest of sensitivities is in order.

Luckily, I'm an expert on the topic.

I've been married six times.

With ladies, women, and damsels.

I'm well-versed in all things feminine.

-I beg your pardon, baron... -...very well-versed...

...with three damsels, two women, and one lady.

Let me tell you, all of them had souls.

Generally all women have souls.

Even the ones who don't.

What's that?

That? This is a small engine for young ladies.

In order for them to heat up a bit faster.

What's that?

That?

This is a small fan for older men, in order for them to cool off faster.

Well, I tried.

Here he comes. Just look at his face!

Now you laugh...

...setting me up like this.

You just had to send me to the ice maiden.

Why are you so clumsy?

Clumsy? That lady is a downer anyway.

No one has any chances with her.

Stop laughing! This includes you. Yes, you!

I bet the whole check you lose!

Agreed! Make notes, kids!

Waiter!

Look here, waiter. This is the first decent champagne you've served me here.

Light and digestible.

Good evening, ice maiden.

I'm sorry? ... Mr. von Wellingen, you...

It's nice of you to come visit me here.

What can I do for you?

Sherry, cocktail, gingerbread, sara...

Nothing like that, just a small Benediktiner (liquor), that's my favorite.

Of course, one moment.

...how I learned about the differences between ladies, women and broads...

Historically speaking, if you take Maria Stuart. She was a woman.

Cleopatra was a broad, and the Joan of Arc was a lady.

To the extend a virgin can be a lady, of course.

Cheers!

I have another wish.

Well?

Just forget about all this commotion for five minutes

come on down with me to the ballroom for a dance.

-I'm supposed to dance with you? -Yes, the Waltz, right now.

♫ You are my joy

♫ You are my longing

♫ Grant me my dream, a date with you

-Well? -Why so sudden?

Maybe I'm smitten with you all of a sudden.

No, thank you.

-This won't do. -Why not?

That's not what I'm paid to do.

You know, this is the first brush-off of my life.

There's a first time for everyone, von Wellingen.

Stop the kidding, why don't you want to dance with me?

Let me see... various reasons... I might slip...

I'll take care of you.

No, thanks.

What about... if I present you a couple of roses?

What about orchids?

What about a small wristwatch?

What about a phonograph and some jazz records?

Oh well, I can't marry you!

What a pity. This would buy you a dance.

I see. Please tell me, sweet barkeeper, where are you from?

From Hungary!

Over there people pay that much for a dance?

That's my rate for Berlin only.

Because the Berliners are a generous people.

♫ Don't worry if someone rejects you

♫ That can happen when one searches for love

I guess the price is too high for you.

Yes, it is. I can get it cheaper somewhere else.

I'm sorry, the deal is off.

Good bye!

♫ Strange things do happen all over the world

♫ I met a girl at a dance

♫ "Oh no, please stop"

♫ She said and left me.

♫ Don't worry if someone rejects you

♫ That can happen when one searches for love

(continued)

Good morning, von Wellingen!

Another long night, wasn't it?

Now you're ready to start the day.

Work is waiting.

Hey, call Bleibtreu 12/79 for me.

What's going on?

-Hello? -Hello Othmar!

This is your loving brother Fred.

What insolence! Disturbing my deepest sleep!

-What's the matter? -Nothing.

But although we've been fighting for three weeks,

I'd like to inform you that it's six o'clock right now.

Rascal! This is unheard of!

...a call in the middle of the night...

Now I won't sleep anymore anyway, no use in trying.

-Good morning! -Good morning Mr. von Wellingen!

-Did you check the incoming mail already? -Yes, von Wellingen.

Hall 4, please!

Please inform Mr. Hoffmann that according to our lawyer,

we need two more signatures for patent number 304-412.

Please inform section C immediately.

Is this Mr. Starke?

Tell me, what's going on with the procedures relating to the

workload of machine 11. Do we have that information yet?

One moment... Yes, got that.

-Good morning, grandma. -Good morning, Othmar.

Miss Elli missed breakfast again?

She's just tired. Modern gymnastics is exhausting.

Bollocks! If so, why am I always fresh like a young fish?

I won't allow my children to behave like that.

Just get on up!

Elli... Elli!

Oooh... Friedrich!

-Say again? -How sweet you are.

What are you saying?

Who's that Friedrich?

What Friedrich are you babbling about?

Me? I'm... Oh, I'm talking about Friedrich Barbarossa, of course.

We just learned about him in school. You know, daddy, that's the one with the beard.

Friedrich Barbarossa, 1903.

Friedrich Barbarossa, 1903? Bollocks!

1903? Even I would've met him then.

Anyway, that's no reason not to have breakfast with us.

Barbarossa 1903...

Barbarossa 1903? Ha!

Goodbye.

Barbarossa 1903...

-Barbarossa 1903... -Yes, director, I connect you right away.

What do you mean? Connecting? Oh, you're thinking about a phone number.

Yes, please do connect me. And bring me the mail.

You're brother already took care of that.

Is that so! Then I...

A TUXEDO ISN'T QUITE THE BEST ATTIRE FOR THE OFFICE

ON THE CONTRARY! TUXEDO IS A FESTIVE DRESS AND I ALWAYS FEEL FESTIVE WHILE WORKING!

SWEETHEART! WHEN WILL I FINALLY GET AN ADEQUATE JOB WITH THE ADEQUATE SALARY?!

Quit the kidding, won't you!

This is our first chance in three weeks to talk to one another.

So what is it? When? And how much?

You already have a contract.

Darn it! I'm working day and night!

All my best ideas are spent here. I'm making millions for the company.

I just want to get paid accordingly.

Alright. I'll report this in tomorrow's general assembly.

General assembly... hokum!

If you keep bugging me, I won't renew my contract and sign with the competition.

-You can't do that! -Why not?

The competition clause. For the next three years, you are not allowed to join them.

Damn! You're planning on starving me out?

I really want to...

Ms. von Lingenfeld! Show her in!

You can't hang around here in your tuxedo! Leave the office!

Please excuse my sudden appearance here at the office.

I'm honored!

I just had to come by in person with some good news.

A while ago you asked me if I'd contribute two millions to the enlargement

of the company and to the ambitious plans of your brother.

I just liquidated the funds.

That's marvellous!

Hopefully, this business merger will tie our families closer together!

I'm almost sure it will.

For heaven's sake! My Brunhilde!

What's going on with my Brunhilde!

The dogs will kill each other!

Hurry down there and take care of the dogs!

Don't you get it? She wants to marry you!

Please do! Then I can act on my plans!

Nothing doing, my dear lad, it's you she's after!

You'll have to bite the bullet.

Mr. von Wellingen, the phone number Barbarossa 1903

belongs to one Friedrich Hempel.

Hempel... He's teaching gymnastics to my daughter!

Well, Wilhelm, modern gymnasics! Marvellous!

One just wishes one would still be young enough to join!

Yes, milady.

♫ Everyone, slim or fat, does gymnastics

♫ We might not be smart, but we know gymnastics

♫ My girl, do you know about my rhythm one short, two long, in sync

♫ Everyone has to join in with my rhythm one short, two long, in sync

♫ Whoever tries me out, is electrified

♫ I'm not waving, I'm no gambler

♫ My girl, do you know about my rhythm one short, two long, in sync

♫ Back then a girl was taught French and the piano

♫ Also scholasticism

♫ Today she does nothing but gymnastics

♫ My girl, do you know about my rhythm one short, two long, in sync

♫ Everyone has to join...

Wilhelm, that has to be a difficult exercise!

I'll have to take a look!

♫ My girl, do you know about my rhythm

♫ One short, two long, in sync

♫ Everyone has to join in with my rhythm

♫ One short, two long, in sync

Milady!

♫ Whoever tries me out, is electrified

♫ I'm not waving, I'm no amateur

♫ My girl, do you know about my rhythm one short, two long, in sync

You're sitting here instead of chaperoning!

Just wait till I get hold of you! You'll learn about my rhythm!

Elli! Elli! Elli, come out this minute!

Elli, you naughty girl, come out and don't bug me!

Elli really is reckless.

(chatter continues)

Ladies, please be quiet! Just for a moment!

But the best tea is nothing without...

Just shut up! Let me tell you, von Wellingen is the only one to marry.

I wish to inform you, the men have arrived.

The men have arrived! That's what I want to inform you of!

-Ladies... -...why shouldn't he marry!

-...one can't even finish a sentence... -Please be quiet!

-I made up my mind to tell you... -Well, what is it, why don't you speak!

-...that the men have arrived. The general assembly is about to start!

Counsellor, please enter...

Counsellor, this way...

-Klara! -Hello grandma!

A tray for the Counsellor.

Come with me, grandma.

...that's the main point, right here... ...good morning...

Dear shareholders, I open this year's general assembly.

At first I'm registering the voting shares.

-Here we go. Our dear grandma. -100.000 votes.

-Aunt Henriette. -Two times 150.000 votes.

-Cousin Cornelius. -200.000 votes.

-Aunt Babette and niece Christa. -Lay off, will you?

50.000 votes each.

Are we cracking nuts or having a general assembly?

Unheard of!

-Niece Laura. -150.000 votes.

-They already started? -Yes, they did.

-Aunt Ulrike. -100.000 votes.

-My brother Fred. -10.000 votes.

-I myself. -Three times 100.000 votes.

-Objection! -What are you objecting about?

Because you started without me.

-Hello Emil! -Hello! I have voting rights, too!

This is... right it down...

-Uncle Emil. -One vote.

-A very important one! -Please be quiet know, we have to go on.

We already sent you the annual report and the balance of accounts.

Keep seated if you approve, stand up if you object.

Why do you object?

The dividend is too small.

I only received 20 Mark.

Heavens, on a single share...

...but...somewhat...

Approved with one nay.

Intolerable!

So just one last thing. My brother Fred will address you.

Dear shareholders,

I have the following request:

You know about my merit to the company.

My zeal you know as well.

But what are my rewards? A undesirable position and bad pay.

On occasion of our company's anniversary celebrated tomorrow I therefore demand

a new contract, the position of general manager,

and a salary of 10.000 Mark.

That's it.

If I'm judging you correctly, everyone will oppose this request.

Countercheck, whoever approves of this, please rise.

Why do you approve of the raise?

I don't care if I make 20 Mark or 19 Mark.

Enough is enough...

I approve of the general manager part, but without a raise.

Goddamn it! How am I supposed to pay off my debt.

That's no concern of ours, Fred. We're not the ones hanging put in the bar.

Better get married to a decent woman!

-A rich one! -Exactly, lady von Lingenfeld!

-She's filthy rich! -And madly in love with you!

Exactly, we already approved of it.

-What are you saying? -Yes Fred, now you know.

We decided that you are going to marry Miss Lingenfeld.

Only if you do, you'll get what you demand.

-Otherwise not? -Otherwise not!

You got to be mad! I'm not yours to be sold!

If you insist on going through with it, I'll make you pay!

Anything else?

Nuts to you!

For yay keep seated, for nay stand up!

I say nay!! You... you...

-You yourself! -I do protest!

...and then the parents of the girl entered the room,

and then the lieutenant said...

♫ I'm thinking of Maedi, all the time

♫ Of Maedi, of Maedi

♫ I'm thinking of Maedi, all night through

♫ She's heaven on earth to me

♫ I know why, but I'm not stupid

♫ I won't tell

-The usual? -Yes.

A surprise meeting you here.

I've been waiting here for an hour.

So here you meet the leisure class.

What can I do for you?

The family instructed me to talk to you once again.

Just be reasonable, for heaven's sake.

We already made promises to Ms. von Lingenfeld, in a way.

You can't back out now. You can't embarrass us like that.

I haven't even started embarrassing you.

Luckily, I still have a card up my sleeve.

What can you possibly do against us?

What I can do against you?

You'll see that in a moment.

Good evening, guys!

-Good evening, Lia! -Good evening!

Say, Lia, yesterday you told me you'd only dance with me if I'd marry you.

I did say that. But you weren't willing to pay the price.

Yesterday I wasn't. But today I'm paying up.

-Gosh! -Don't fool around with a lady like that!

Well! What's your answer?

But Wellingen, you haven't had a drink yet, today.

If you'd know what I've already swallowed today...

-Well? -Well?

-After you. -If you insist.

See you!

Orchestra! A tango, please!

Lighting! Mood!

-Who's that? -The young Wellingen.

What's he gonna do with her?

I don't know. But wait till he finds out what I'll do with him.

We're the only couple dancing. That's not what I wished for.

Are you embarrassed?

Not with you as my partner.

♫ You are not the first girl, please understand

♫ But you could be my last

♫ You got that special something, making my blood boil like champagne

♫ That very special something, arousing the maddest desires

♫ You are not the first girl, please understand

♫ But you could be my last

♫ Deep in my heart I never cared about the others

♫ You're the first one, the first one who counts

I have to make a confession.

Now, with the music, no one can listen in. I longed to dance for you since forever.

I only said no yesterday because... I was afraid!

I knew, if you'd hold me in you're arms... Well, I was afraid!

I'm afraid, too. About falling in love with you.

♫ You are not the first girl, please understand

♫ But you could be my last

♫ Deep in my heart I never cared about the others

♫ You're the first one, the first one who counts

♫ Deep in my heart I never cared about the others

♫ You're the first one, the first one who counts

Silence! Silence!

Ladies and gentleman! Please let me reveal a secret!

This has been the engagement dance of Mr. von Wellingen and Mrs. Török.

No! This won't do!

Believe me, my friend, it will! It will!

Let me... I have to...

Here's to us!

I just wish all of that would be really true.

But it is true.

It is? It is? It is! It is!

Hello, hello... Who's speaking?

It's you? ... Say what?

You got engaged just now, in the middle of the night? At two o'clock?

I see, with him... who's him?

I see, that guy... who's that guy?

What do you mean, he's the guy?

I think you're tipsy.

You do? That's a good omen for the marriage.

I also was a little tipsy when taking you're mom...

Of course I'm happy for you. Tell him you got my blessings. Kisses!

Goodbye... Hello, hello!

Just one last thing. Tell me, is he in love with you?

He does. Deep in his heart he never cared about the others.

I'm the first one, the first one who counts.

Thank you, minister, for addressing me and my dear colleagues celebrating

our fiftieth anniversary.

The family Wellingen, clearly one of the foremost in our city,

is truly honored.

-Hello Lia. -Hello Fred.

-How do you do? -I'm so happy!

Meet my father.

-Greetings. -Happy to meet you.

-I can join you? -Of course!

The more relatives the better.

May I assist you? Take care with this step.

Thanks, but I used to be an acrobat.

Wait till my brother sees this. Come, Lia!

...this meal, which was off to a great start thanks to your majesty's visit

will go on joyously and harmoniously.

...magnificent...

Nice of you to show up at all.

The minister asked about you twice already.

Sorry about the delay, your highness.

Let me introduce my wife and her father.

I didn't know about this. Congratulations!

Please take a seat, young lady!

-I don't know if... -Yes, please do!

You can say hello to the others later on.

Good... and daddy will be placed at the family table for now.

That can't be true!

-I'm leaving! -Don't make a scene! Keep on eating.

Guys! Let me introduce my father in law. Mr. Török.

You will meet the bride in a moment.

Daddy will tell you all about it.

Your insolence knows no boundaries!

A barmaid! As part of our family! What will people say?

-I was just about to tell the minister... -For heaven's sake, please don't!

Why do you insist on calling me madam? Please say Elli, we're related now!

And what's more, I think you're lovely!

I'm not joking! Fred, I didn't think you had such good taste!

We knew nothing about the engagement. When did Fred meet your daughter?

This morning, at two am.

Maybe a bit later. Cheers!

There was a ball yesterday?

In the bar there's always a ball.

Your daughter frequents bars?

Yes, she's a decent girl who always...

Unfortunately, my small barbershop isn't doing well.

Everyone's got a razor these days.

Strong brandy. I'm not used to it anymore.

Dear barber, would you be so kind to

hand over two of these whippet cookies?

I'd be glad to!

That's just for starters. You ain't seen nothing yet!

-Where did you pick that up? -At the circus!

-The circus! -I used to be a magician and a juggler!

I knew a trick with four plates.

What's the matter?

Dad! What are you doing?

Me! You're doing... when you...

He's got a point. Dear father in law, please come with me to the minister.

You'll have to perform the trick one more time.

Here, here, more plates!

-You have to go home now. But Lia, I'm begging you!

-You're not supposed to have brandy. -Just four glasses of brandy...

I didn't drink, didn't drink anything...

You're making a fuzz just because of four small glasses of brandy.

Please, Fred, stand back!

(Lia and her father continue in Hungarian)

-I beg your pardon. -What... "I beg"... "I beg"....

Well, now... What is the purpose of this bizarre joke?

There's no joke. I'm serious. I'm marrying the girl.

That's impossible. The whole thing has to be reversed.

-That's impossible. -Why?

-Too late! -Why too late?

I'm organizing a dinner at the Esplanade tonight in order to announce my engagement.

-How dare you! -Well well, dear brother...

You'll burst with joy. Just like the rest of the Wellingen family.

I already mailed the invitations. All of Berlin will be talking about this.

To cut things short, this is blackmail.

So... come with me, rascal...

Here... write!

"I receive" - Gangster!

"on behalf of the engineering works Wellingen"

"represented by Othmar von Wellingen" - Crook!

"Othmar von Wellingen" - You're the crook!

Pardon me? ... "an uncallable 10 year contract... as a crook"

"...as general director."

"with a monthly salary of" - Blackmailer!

"10.000 Marks."

-Othmar! Othmar! -Take a seat, will you! We're not finished.

"In return I make the commitment"

"not to marry Mrs. Lia Török."

"and... eeh..." What's going on? Why aren't you writing any more?

What are you thinking about?

The poor girl.

Forget about it. She'll understand if you find the right words.

At the Esplanade tonight, we'll just tell our guests, that

we're celebrating your promotion to the position of general manager.

♫ You are my joy

♫ And I won't find peace unless

♫ My dream will come true

♫ (My Dream of) The rendezvous

♫ We are connected by something eternal

♫ You are all of my joy

I'm happy that you're marrying such a nice guy

and that you'll be part of such a fine family.

When I'll visit you, he'll ask me:

"Father in law, how much do you need?"

Yes, he'll ask that.

-What's that on your shirt? -On my...?

A spot! Must be because of the pomade.

-You found it! -Yet another spot!

Because you've been prancing around in your tailcoat all afternoon.

Just change your shirt, will you?

The other one is dirty.

DEAR LIA, I'VE BEEN TRYING FOR HOURS TO FIND THE RIGHT WORDS FOR WHAT I'VE...

I can't! I can't send her this kind of letter.

Then let me repeat my proposition.

My car is ready. We drive to her and you'll tell her in person.

That's the only solution.

She can demand that much of me.

She'll demand much more.

Some kind of compensation.

You say that because you don't know her.

I can't even offer something like that.

She's living in the clouds.

And what about her Berlin address?

Mueller Street 297.

Mueller Street. What a neighborhood.

My chauffeur will be surprised.

Come on, don't be a fool, come on.

Now there's a hole.

No use.

Even if I'm on bad terms with the neighbor, I have to borrow a tailcoat from him.

Does he have one?

He doesn't, but his boarder has.

He's a boy waiter. ("Pikkolo")

What are you saying?

Yes, but he's a big boy waiter.

It'll fit.

Fred, it's you!

Please wait just a moment!

How nice of you to come by.

You're not allowed to look at me. I'm not fully dressed.

Come here, sit down.

May I?

Weren't you supposed to pick me up at half past seven?

-You're not yet wearing a tailcoat. -I arrived earlier because... thank you.

Benedictine.

Thank you.

Now listen, Lia... What are you doing?

Please come here, will you?

Wait till you see my dress for tonight!

I'm putting it on right now.

No, please don't, not now.

It will be just a minute.

-But I don't want you to put on the engagement... the evening dress.

-Why not? -Why... listen...

You're a reasonable, decent girl, aren't you?

I have a few things to say to you first.

So what's on your mind?

Well... it's not easy to tell you this.

Maybe this way it'll be easier.

When you're so sweet and charming...

...then it'll be easier.

You know it is... it's something... something that I...

...something I can't... can't tell you just like that.

It's hot in here.

Not at all.

Maybe because I'm too heavy.

No, you aren't too heavy,

but it might be better if we find different seating arrangements, you know...

...it's hot and your father might return any moment.

He's gone! And he left the room key.

He has to ring.

Well... but still...

You know, it's about...

So what's your problem. Out with it!

My problem? My problem is, my brother's a jerk!

He has no idea what it means to be with a sweet and charming girl like you.

He doesn't know about eyes like this, cheeks like this, lips like this.

Let me kiss you!

Be reasonable! What if father comes back?

He doesn't have a key!

But you wanted to tell me something!

That you are the sweetest and most precious girl in the world.

You have to be mine, be mine!

There's father, there's father!

You open the door for father.

And tell him I'm still dressing.

-Othmar? -How long am I supposed to wait in the car?

Is this over now?

Yes! It's over.

I won't give in to you. I'll stay with the girl.

Because now I know I love her.

-Are you mad? -Yes, but being mad is beautiful!

Being mad is wonderful!

I understand. So the position of general manager isn't wonderful.

A monthly salary of 10.000 Marks isn't wonderful either.

You're no match for this temptress.

-I'll take matters into my own hand. -You won't! I forbid it!

I'm not doing anything. I'll just show her your formal relationship waiver.

So that she knows what to think of your oaths of love.

I'm ready!

Sorry for entering your home.

I just wanted to remind my brother...

...please don't! I'll tell her myself.

Will this document help?

No, this won't be necessary.

I'll see you down there in a minute, then.

Just tell me. What's going on?

What happened?

See, Lia, don't get upset.

We can't go on with our engagement.

-You don't want to marry me any longer? -No, it's just, we can't get engaged today.

Do you understand? ...A letter, all of a sudden, I...

I have to leave today, there's an unpostponable conference in Copenhagen.

But look, when I return... we can...

Be brave, will you.

It's just that I was very much looking forward to tonight.

You'll come back soon, won't you!

Of course! I will!

Lia! What's your...

Lia! What's your problem? Just a few days.

He likes you, that's all that counts.

Mrs. Lia Török - uninvited!

Here, throw it away.

Elli von Wellingen will take her place.

[sings Hungarian]

What's going on? Where's she heading?

Excuse me, I'm looking for Mr. von Wellingen.

Mr. von Wellingen...

Everybody get on board!

He's not on this train.

I'm sorry milady, my master left for the Esplanade just now.

Are you mad?

That was a misunderstanding. Mr. von Wellingen left today for Copenhagen.

Hello... Hello?

She hung up!

Ladies and gentlemen,

let me welcome you. I'm happy that so many of you showed up

to celebrate with us the appointment of my brother as general manager.

What's that? Isn't there an engagement tonight?

We prevented that.

A shame, I was looking forward to our family's humiliation

What makes me especially happy, dear Fred, is that you have proven,

at the crucial moment, that you're a real man.

To hell with love, to hell with romance and all that hogwash.

There's just one thing that counts: prestige and career.

In this spirit, here's to our new general director!

The morons are applauding.

I can't stop thinking about the poor girl.

Why didn't you tell her the whole truth?

I couldn't... I...

DEAR MISS ELLI, IF YOU STILL HARBOUR A TINY BIT OF SYMPATHY FOR ME,

PLEASE LET ME TAKEYOUR SEAT FOR A WHILE. LIA

-Cheers, my lad! -Cheers, grandma!

-All the best! -Same!

Listen...

Good evening, Fred.

-You? -Of course!

We're celebrating our engagement tonight.

Don't you want to make a speech?

Yes... but...

Well? Then I will do it.

Dear friends and future relatives.

It wouldn't have been necessary to tap on the glass,

because your courteous silence ensures me,

that you already granted me your attention.

You all now that Fred has proposed to me.

I'll answer him in front of all of you.

I appreciate the honor and the good fortune

and it's with the greatest of pleasures that I say: yes.

I'm confused about Fred.

This has to be a catastrophic error.

There indeed has been an error.

I had thought that in here, a word is a word.

And a promise a promise.

But that's not the case.

Here, one gets thrown away like a piece of paper once one is no longer needed.

And I'll throw you away just like that, too!

-Lia, listen... -You and your precious Fred!

Al of your riches, too! I...

Hurrah, marvellous, fantastic!

She's right! Attagirl! She should've thrashed even more stuff!

Now I'm leaving and I'll propose to her!

She has character, while you're a bunch of phonies!

Don't even try to explain. Mr. general manager.

For heaven's sake, don't be in the way! I'm proposing!

How embarrassing! Come inside, at least!

-An embarrassment... -What a Scandal...

Alright, I'm coming.

Finally, I've been waiting here for half an hour.

I arrived as fast as I could.

Did you get the tickets for the night train?

Yes, everything's settled, number 7 and 8.

But please hurry, so we won't miss the train!

Why certainly, dear sister.

As long as I'm head of this family, there won't be any monkey business.

-Come on now! -Yes, yes...

?Not this way! Come here. Upstairs, downstairs and then out the back-door.

Take the roses, even if he sent them!

Those beautiful long stalks...

Flowers from Fred? Never!

I won't see or hear anything.

-But you can smell them? -No!

My daughter is sorry, but she won't see, hear or smell anything.

Unfortunately I don't remember the exact wording, but...

but they returned the whole thing once again.

Hello, this is Török.

Yes... please... one... one mo...

It's him, him... he's on the line... come here...

Hello? My daughter... my daughter isn't home.

I'm sorry.

No, no, she isn't in the bar either.

No, these days, my daughter is never home.

I'm sorry... No, I'm also not here.

Lia this can't go on.

Yesterday you started crying in the evening and you continued until seven this morning.

Then there was a short break for breakfast.

Then you started up again and cried until noon.

You're right. I'll get my act together.

See, I won't insist if you don't love him.

But if you look at it calmly...

He's young, he's handsome, he's rich.

What's more, he's sorry about hurting you.

I don't want anything to do with him.

Even if he'd be wrapped in gold from head to toe.

If you say so...

Well, gold is an expensive metal.

Not one second of piece and quiet!

Lia, Lia, look at the beautiful roses!

Fred sent them?

-No! These are from... -Hello Mrs. Lia!

Hello... Hello...

Have you calmed down?

Yes, I appreciate your looking for me.

I sent the bouquet in order to...

Oh yes, thanks very much, all those beautiful roses.

Yes, very beautiful, marvellous!

I'll put them into water immediately.

Won't you sit down?

Thanks a lot.

What's that? He lost the roses. What a dope.

I understand your hesitation.

I was married six times. Always bad luck.

But it might work out for once.

Please let me think about this.

-Eight days, no longer. -Eight days? That's marvellous.

I expected to wait much longer.

Just eight days.

Then I won't steal another minute of your precious time for consideration.

Allow me to recuse myself.

See you!

Sir, you lost the roses.

Gosh... Haha...

I just carried the empty wrapping paper upstairs?

They'll think I'm crazy!

Listen Lia, I don't want to rush you.

But don't reject him right away!

What good fortune!

He's rich, he's old, what more do you want?

See, true love won't happen, this you already found out.

Again someone's ringing!

-Pardon me, I... -Lia! Lia!

You'll be surprised, guess what...

No! From Fred? Out with it!

For heaven's sake, no!

Please excuse my absent-mindedness.

I... The roses dropped out of the wrapping...

Finally I got the roses, I will never let go of them!

Those roses! That beautiful smell!

I won't bother you any longer.

-Goodbye! -Goodbye!

See you! I'll do that, no problem... See you, my friend!

The old lad must be paralytic.

Oh my god! What did I carry upstairs this time?

Gentlemen, a cable for you.

Excuse me, Director General, I wanted to ask again about the ball bearings.

Ask my brother or do whatever you like!

I'm not interested.

Dire... I'm sorry, I need to know about the ball bearings.

Just leave me be! I got other things on my mind! Out with you!

They're in Paris... having a good time!

Are you listening? Are you?

They're in Paris!

The ball bearings?

Elli and that gymnastics buffoon!

There out of money...

But she's expecting...

...me to send them more.

What insolence!

I'll take the next train and lean into the guy until he marries her!

-And who stays in the factory? -You, of course!

No way, I'm leaving for Venice. I can't go on, I'm going crazy!

-But the factory! -To hell with the factory!

Everything can go to hell! You took my girl always,

and now I'll break rocks and you can go on selling shoelaces.

Why should I sell shoelaces of all things.

I can't stay on the corner and sell shoe... Wait a minute, lad!

-The orders! -To hell with the orders!

Here! There are your order forms! I'm going to Venice!

Drinking, dreaming forgetting!

[speaking Italian]

You're right!

That too, of course!

[sings in Italian]

Who's that?

To whom do these big paws belong to?

When did you arrive in Venice?

Today! But why are you here?

I'm... I'm here to forget this and that.

What's going on in Berlin?

Berlin makes fun... What a charming girl...

Berlin makes fun of your brother.

The gymnastics teacher demands a dowry of half a million.

Otherwise he'd leave the girl. Now the old lad has to pay up!

Be silent, you won't understand anyway my child!

Deserves him right. A just punishment for...

What do you think about Schwappsdorf? He's getting married again.

He's getting married? Who's the poor woman?

You don't know? It's Lia.

-What are you saying? This can't be true! -Of course it is!

The wedding is tomorrow.

I have to send a cable now.

Tomorrow...

Listen, I have to be in Berlin tomorrow morning.

-The plane only travels to Vienna. -Do I have a connection there?

-If you're lucky... -So get me a ticket to Berlin!

Lia, just thinking about it... In half an hour you'll be Lady Schwappsdorf!

A baroness...

What good fortune! I still can't believe it!

What's going on with Fred?

Since three weeks, not a single word.

No wonder, you returned everything he sent you!

And still. Before I take that final step... I have to speak to him once more.

Where's your pride now? What about the insults?

I can't help it.

Hello? Who cares who I am...

I have to speak to Mr. von Wellingen.

What are you saying? Venice?

Thanks.

He left. Without even saying goodbye to me.

Good. At least that's settled now.

The baron!

Come in, come in, we're ready!

The beautiful bride...

It's time now. May I?

If you insist. Let's go.

Not so fast! One more kiss while unmarried.

-And what about me? -Afterwards!

My previous marriages weren't like that.

So much afterwards and none at all beforehand.

To join in matrimony

Lia Török, daughter of Bela Török,

born July 11, 1910, in Budapest,

and Baron Schwappsdorf.

Been a while, baron.

Indeed it has been. Two years.

Born... We know this from last time.

Place of living... Same as last time.

-Divorced? -Of course!

Six times!

We already dealt with the marriage witnesses.

So, for the signing.

Let's hope it'll last longer this time.

Tell me, the Schwappsdorf marriage...

Main hall, first floor.

-Thank you, please, thank you, please. -You're welcome.

See you again! Well, maybe...

Now you're my son in law.

Now I can admit it. It took some effort to convince her.

That Schwappsdorf fellow. A lucky guy!

What a lovely creature.

Now I'll finally receive a kiss.

I beg you, afterwards.

This already is afterwards.

At home, I mean.

Maybe a small preview, on the cheek?

Now... Where is this guy taking us?

Completely off course! Phillip, Phillip!

Where are you heading? Have you gone mad? Did you lose your mind?

Phillip! Phillip!

Lads, another round!

Cheers, fellows! Here's to old Schwappsdorf!

Stop! Slow down! What's going on?

Just tell me, where are you taking me?

Have you completely lost your mind? What's...

Get home safely!

Stop! Stop! For heaven's sake!

This marriage starts well...

How am I supposed to get home?

25 kilometers... Now that'll be fun...

Mr. von Wellingen! Mr. von Wellingen!

Thanks heavens, the next road marker.

What's that? 26 kilometers?

Goddamn it, I went in the wrong direction!

I can't catch a break!

What insolence! There's another one! This one I won't let pass!

Stop! Just a minute...

-What do you need? -Transportation.

-Please take me with you. -Alright, hop on!

Hurry up!

Won't you stop already! Fred! Fred!

Not until you'll forgive me.

See, Lia, you have to understand...

Now I have you, I hold you, I'll never give you away.

But you promised in writing never to marry Lia Török.

You're allowed to marry the baroness Schwappsdorf, though.

That's me, since half an hour ago.

Lia!

-Where are you heading? -Breslau!

What are you saying?