All language subtitles for 1946 Un cœur à prendre (Heartbeat)

-Good morning.

Good morning.

-Before we begin our studies, I
have some sad news to tell you.

Your fellow classmate
Hector is no longer with us.

And do you know why?

The fool!

Idiot!

He got himself pinched!

They nabbed him in
the subway for trying

to relieve a man of his
wallet-- and as ungracefully,

I say, as a hippopotamus.

I warned him.

I told him.

Hector, I said, you
haven't practiced enough.

Your fingers are too stiff!

-The sap'll be lucky if he
gets all but three months

in the clink.

-How many times do
I have to remind you

that I will tolerate
slang in my classroom?

Or the mention of
prison, either.

Louis, draw the curtains.

Lock the door.

This unfortunate incident
proves that you're not

paying the proper
attention to your studies.

Martin Number Two, go on.

You too, hurry.

We start today with
the inside coat pocket,

the one that cost poor
Hector hi freedom.

Thank you.

All right, come on.

All right, Henri, you try it.

-Me?

-Yes, you, of course.

Come on, hurry!

He isn't going to
open his coat for you.

The right hand, the right hand.

The right hand brushes lightly.

Very flat.

Come on, go to it!

-Well, I can see where Hector
is going to have company.

Look at these fingers.

When you came here, they
were long and graceful.

Now they're like sausages.

-Trouble is I keep you too well.

Silence!

Be seated.

Marie-Annette, you come here.

-Bravo, bravo!

-Did you notice the
dexterity of her fingers,

the graceful touch?

If you were all as
serious as Marie-Annette,

if you applied yourselves
and really worked hard--

-Who is it?

Professor, can you
spare a moment?

Someone downstairs.

-Continue.

-Good day, sir.

-Monsieur?

-Oh, I've come in answer to
the ad you ran in the paper.

"Jobs--"

-"Jobs with a brilliant
future for hardworking,

serious young people," huh?

-That's it.

I wish I could have
a chance at it,

but I have no money for fees.

-I take care of expenses
while you're learning.

In exceptional
cases, my students

are even housed and fed.

-Oh, it sounds good!

-What's your trade?

-Unemployed, but I
used to be a mechanic.

-Identification papers?

-Oh, I need papers?

-Oh, what do you think?

-Of course, uh-- they-- but
I must have left it at home.

-Home?

Where is your home?

-Well, it's-- uh, you know--
-You have no home.

-I'm afraid you are right.

-No home, no papers-- I'm sorry,
but under the circumstances--

-Please, sir, won't
you change your mind?

-It's no use.

No home, no papers-- impossible.

Good day.

-But I will do anything.

I will--

-Good.

Good, I was afraid you'd gone.

My man, I have reconsidered.

-Oh.

Oh, you have?

-Yes.

By the way, what's your name?

-Yves Cadubert.

Well, my dear Yves Cadubert,
you may call me Professor.

And now, my dear
Yves-- but first

give me back my 50 francs.

-Oh-- w-what 50 francs?

-Listen, a short while ago,
there was a 50-franc note here

on this desk, and now
it's in your pocket.

-But I swear--
-Good!

Good.

Very good.

And the expression!

The indignation is perfect.

It would fool anybody--
but not me, nor the police.

Do you know what they'd do
with a little bit nobody

like you, without
identification papers

if a respectable
gentleman like me

reported that you'd
stolen his 50 francs?

-Professor, don't
turn me in, please.

It's the first time I
ever stole anything.

-Excellent, simply excellent.

You certainly show
possibilities.

But no more nonsense.

Now give me back my 50 francs.

Come on, come on.

-Enough.

Come on.

It's only by constant
practice that member

that members of
our profession can

develop their sense of
touch to the skill needed

to make a decent livelihood.

Nimble fingers are
the first essential.

Without them-- remember Hector.

All right, let's get to
work on today's lesson.

Hurry, hurry!
Take your places.

Come on.

That's right.

-He's eating too much.

He's getting heavy.

-Oh, Mimi, you
look so beautiful.

You're wonderful!

-You look adorable this morning.

PROFESSOR ARISTIDE
Come on, come on,

take your places.
Hurry, now.

take your places.
Hurry, now.
Hurry, now.
Get out of there.

Hurry, now.
Get out of there.

Get out of there.

Keep moving, come on.

Everybody working.

Over there.

Come on, you.

Go on.

Let's get going.

-Quick and casual,
that's the style.

Bertrand, excellent!

Professor.

There's someone downstairs.

-Good day, Monsieur.

I, uh--

-I came in answer to this.

-Splendid.

Sit down, would you?

-Um, "Job with a future--"

-Yes, yes, I know.

I-- I wrote it.

You're of age?

-Oh, do I have to be?

PROFESSOR ARISTIDE
Of course.

You have to be 21.

-Oh.

Well, I'm 21.

Naturally,
you have identification papers.

-I didn't know I
had to have papers.

PROFESSOR ARISTIDE
Of course.

-Um-- PROFESSOR
ARISTIDE Where do you live?

-Well, I, um-- I did--
-Oh.

Too bad.

I'm afraid I shall have
to, uh-- excuse me.

I'll be back in a moment.

But, uh, don't be too hopeful.

No home, no papers.

-Well, my dear, I think we
shall get along famously.

-Really?

You think so, Monsieur?

-Yes.

What's your name?

-Arlette.

Arlette Lafon.

-Arlette Lafon.

Well, my dear Arlette,
I-- uh, first of all,

give me back my
50 francs -50 francs?

-Yes, my 50 francs.

What are you hiding?

-I'm sorry, Monsieur,
but I was so hungry,

and-- but you will give me
the job, won't you, please?

-I thought I could, but
you disappointed me.

-But I'm a good worker.

Please give me the job.

I was so hungry, and I--

-Yes, I-- I'm just
as sorry as you

are not to be able to use you.

You're frank and honest.

I like that.

But it's not enough.

-Good day, Monsieur.

-Oh-- wait a minute.

What's this?

-Oh, that's-- that's
just a handkerchief.

-Yes, a handkerchief.

Right out of reform school.

I know the kind very well.

When did you escape?

So, eh, you're number 497, eh?

-Yes, Monsieur.

I lied to you.

I'm only 18.

When my parents died, I
went to live with my aunt,

and she was mean to me.

She beat me.

Then she got married and
there were two to beat me.

That's why I ran away.

They had me put in
that reform school

and it was just like a prison.

That's why I ran
away from there, too.

Oh, please, Monsieur,
don't turn me in.

I'm not a bad girl.

-You couldn't be, with those
eyes and that expression.

Let's see your hands.

Hm-hm.

With these hands and
what I can teach you,

there's no limit to
your possibilities.

Come along.

-All right, now that you've been
caught in the act, what would

you do?

Come on, what would you do?

Put it away.

-Arlette, my dear,
what would you do?

-Uh, ask forgiveness and
swear never to do it again.

-No, no.

Play innocent.

Deny everything.

-Play innocent and
deny everything.

-That's right, that's right.

Of course, you must
deny everything.

And you must deny it not only
fervently but convincingly.

But don't rely on
your voice alone.

Complete innocence must be
written all over your face.

And to achieve this
effectively, we'll

once more run through
those exercises which

are somewhat similar to those
used by professional actors.

We'll start with you.

- Me, sir?
You're mistaken, sir.

It's not me.

I swear it on the
head of my father.

-Zero.

-Henri, we'll try you.

But, uh, with a little
hint of emotion, please.

-Yes, sir.

Me, sir!

You're mistaken, sir!

It's not me.

I swear it!

I swear it on the head of
my father, I didn't do it!

-I don't blame you for laughing.

I ask you to emote and you
bellow like a sick calf.

-Yves, you try.

With a little bit less emotion.

-Me, sir?

You're mistaken, sir.

It's not me.

I swear it on-- on-- on
the head of my father.

-You swear it on the
head of your father

just as if you were openly
confessing your guilt.

-But it gives me the
jitters to swear that.

-Oh, why?

-Because my old
man is still alive.

He's in the poorhouse,
but he's still alive.

So your old man's still alive.

That's too bad.

What do you want
me to do about it?

Wait?

-Arlette, my dear, you try.

Me, sir?

I Oh, you're mistaken, sir.

I didn't do it.

I swear on the
head of my father.

-That's it, that's it.

That's convincing.

Come around here, my dear.

That's right, show them.

Here we are.

That's right.

Now-- innocence.

Astonishment.

Anger.

Fear.

Pleading.

Bravo, Arlette!

Bravo, bravo.

-That's your
homework for tonight.

You'll each practice
that exercise diligently

in front of a mirror until
you can do it as Arlette does.

Dinner in a short while.

Lights out as usual
at nine o'clock.

Class dismissed.

-Me, sir?

You are mistaken, sir.

It's not me.

I-- I swear it--

-Ooh, that's no good.

Once more.

Oh-- Me, sir?

You are mistaken, sir.

It's not me.

I swear it on the
head of my father.

I'm innocent.

I'm innocent!

I-- Oh, shut up!

-Oh.

Can't we
get a little sleep around here?

-Ah, shut up yourself.

-Who is there?

It's me.

Oh, am
I keeping you awake, too?

-No, it isn't that.

-That's good.

It's no use.

When I lie, everybody knows it.

Maybe I ought to
go into politics,

where it doesn't matter.

Tell me, how do you do it?

-I make-believe, like
an actress in a play.

But the thought of stealing--
I'll never be able to do it.

-Well, why are you
here in this place for?

And where would you go?

Back to the reform school?

You can't get a job without
identification papers.

You know that.

Say, have you ever
thought of marriage?

-Why, naturally, I-- That's it!

Marriage!

A white marriage.

-What?

-A white marriage.

Just the ceremony.

You'll never see the groom
again, just at the marriage.

Now, listen.

Once you are married, your
husband is responsible.

They can't put you back
in the reform school.

You'd beat the rap.

-Oh!

Well, who would I marry?

-That's something
I wouldn't know.

-You see?

-I'd be glad to help you, but I
haven't got any papers, either.

But I know a guy who
arranges marriages like that.

-Well, come on, what
are we waiting--

-Hey, not so fast.

Costs money.

-How much?

-3,000 francs.

-Three thou-- well, where
would I get money like that?

-That's what you're
here for, to learn how.

-To steal.

Steal to stay honest?

For that, I'll do it.

-Taxi, taxi!

Taxi, taxi!

Taxi!

Taxi.

Taxi!

Taxi, taxi!

THIEF'S LAWYER : The circumstances

which caused the downfall.

So, Your Honor, in
honoring your decision

I beg of you to be lenient.

I have
listened attentively

to the testimony of both
sides and, after weighing

the evidence carefully, I am
ready to render my decision.

Whether this is
the first time you

have stolen or not
is besides the point.

The undisputed fact is
that you have stolen.

The law does not
say that when you

put your hand in your neighbor's
pocket to take his property,

he must apologize to you because
you have never done it before.

Nor does it say there is
no guilt because you have

what seemed an important reason
for stealing his property.

After all, he may have
just an important a reason

for keeping his property.

THIEF'S LAWYER : Yes, Your Honor.

I agree.

And there is no excuse for
my client's indiscretion,

regardless of the explanation
of his desperate circumstances.

But I assure you
that now he realizes

the seriousness of his offense.

And if leniency is shown him

by the court, he will
not make another mistake.

The stolen article has
been returned to the owner

and the prisoner
has.

And if Your Honor
will be merciful,

the prisoner will not forget
his duty to society again.

I-- I swear
I'll never steal again.

It was the very first
time, Your Honor.

I promise it won't happen again.

- I
- hope you are right.

For the next three
months, I am going

to make sure that you do
not do any more stealing.

Where you are going, there will
be little temptation to steal.

But Your Honor--
Take the prisoner away.

-But-- but Your Honor, please!

Please, Your Honor, please.

Next case.

-But Monsieur, if we go now,
we'll miss the "Mickey Mouse."

Don't you like the
"Mickey Mouse"?

Monsieur, what good will it do
to turn me in to the police?

This is not the police station.

Monsieur, I assure you,
you're making a great mistake.

-Yes, Your Excellency.

Monsieur-- Captain--
General-- Your Excellency--

Your Highness!

Let me go, let me go!

But I've got to!

It's important.

I've got a date!

All right, you can keep me
here by force if you want

to, but-- I warn you, I'll--
I'll do something desperate.

I'll-- I'll complain to
the man with the stickpin!

What I want to know is how long
you're going to keep me here.

Well, say something!

Oh, it isn't your
conversation bores me.

It's just that I'm beginning
to lose my patience.

If you don't
let me out of here,

I'll-- I'll scream!

I'll-- I'll count to three.

One.

Two.

Two and a half.

Look out.

Three.

Oh!

Oohh!

Ah, Baron Dvorak.

Here at last.

What detained you?

-I was with a--
with the Secretary

of the Interior,
Your Excellency,

when I received your message.

-Mm-hm.

Likely story.

-But really, Dvorak,
not that I mine.

You must think of your family--
particularly of your niece.

-My niece?

But I have no niece.

-Of course you have.

-Theresa, my sister,
is a young woman

of irreproachable character.

I assure you--

-Well, now, don't
get excited, Dvorak.

Perhaps I should have broken
it to you more gently.

-But Theresa-- oh, no, no, no.

Besides, she's homely.

-But your niece isn't.

Look.

Now, let's go over it
once again, and this time,

get it right.

I come from Geneva.

I went to-- I attend a
girls' boarding house--

-Boarding school.

I go back to Geneva tomorrow.

This is my first trip to Paris.

This is my first ball.

This is the first time
my feet hurt, too.

-And you are?

-I'm worn out.

-Answer.

Who are you?

-I am Mademoiselle
Arlette de Chevrolet.

-De Chevier!

-De Chevier.

Pardonnez-moi.

Arlette de Chevier.

You are my uncle
and I am your niece.

Baron-- I mean, Uncle-- who am
I gonna tell all these lies to?

His Excellency has
some.

Now remember, you are
not to utter one word

that I haven't taught you.

Don't forget, you're
supposed to be a lady.

Ah, Dvorak.

-Oh, Your Excellency.

How are you, Baron?

-Oh, fine, fine,
Your Excellency.

And I hope you're fine too, sir.

-I'm very well indeed,
thank you very much.

-Oh, I'm glad to hear it, sir.

Uh, oh, this is
Mademoiselle de Chevier.

Er, my niece.

-Oh, delighted.

And why haven't I met
this young lady before?

-Oh, this is my
first trip to Paris,

and this is my first ball,
and I'm going back to Geneva

tomorrow.

-My dear, a schoolgirl's career
is hardly a subject of interest

to His Excellency.

-Oh, but I am most interested.

We'll talk about this later
on in the evening, hm?

-Thank you, Your Excellency.

With your permissions.

-My dear, excuse me, I must
have a word with Dvorak.

-Mademoiselle.

-Yes, Uncle?

Oh, Your Excellency.

How do I look?

-Charming.

-I feel charming, too.

You know, this is just
like a dream I once--

-I didn't bring you here
to talk about your dreams.

I, uh, want you to
dance with someone.

-Oh?

Who?

-That man over there.

The one dancing with
the lady in black.

-Oh, him?

-Don't point.

-Oh, he looks very nice.

And the lady's beautiful.

-Aye.

-Well, when do I dance with him?

-I have to introduce you first.

-Oh.

Do I ask him right away?

-He will ask you.

-But suppose he doesn't.

-He will.

And while you're
dancing with him,

you will discreetly
relieve him of his watch.

-But that's stealing!

-It's a secret mission.

-I won't do it.

-I must have that watch.

-Well, then swipe it yourself.

I've only stolen once, and
I'm not going to steal again.

-Then you'll go to jail
for stealing my stickpin.

-What?

You mean, if I don't
steal the second time,

I go to jail for
stealing the first time?

-Exactly.

-And you an ambassador.

You ought to be
ashamed of yourself.

-Mademoiselle.

-Monsieur.

My dear, Mademoiselle
Arlette de Chevier.

This is my wife.

-Mademoiselle.

Uh, Baron Dvorak's niece.

-Monsieur Pierre de
Roche, a young diplomat

with a very promising future.

-How do you do, Mademoiselle?

-Monsieur.

Monsieur is as smooth

a dancer as he is a diplomat.

-Oh, don't believe a
word of it, Mademoiselle.

This is her first ball.

You are to be her first partner.

-My dear, shall we dance?

-I sense he is placing a
great responsibility upon me.

I'm afraid I'm unworthy of it.

A young girl's first ball
is a very important event.

She'll remember it all her life.

So I shall be part
of your memory.

And believe me, I'm very
proud and flattered.

-I didn't know Dvorak had
such a charming niece.

-Well, he didn't
know it himself.

-What?

-I mean that he's
so absent-minded

that-- that he never
thought to mention her.

-What time is it?

-Am I boring you?

-Oh, no, it's just
that, uh, I must

join my uncle at
10 o'clock sharp.

-Ah.

-Is it 10 o'clock?

Is it 10 o'clock?

-You have lots of time.

But, uh, is it 10:00?

Oh, it's only five past 10:00.

Plenty of time yet.

-Uh--
-Oh.

But if I let you
go to your uncle,

will you come back quickly?

-Oh, I promise.

-I'll be waiting for
you in the buffet.

-Have I finished that
caviar sandwich already?

Yes, Monsieur.

-Mm, funny.

My dear Pierre, it's you.

What luck.

-For whom?

-For both of us.

I have the supreme
pleasure of seeing you.

You have the supreme
pleasure of seeing me.

But your pleasure's even
more supreme than mine,

because you are about
to have the honor

of doing me a little favor.

-Ah.

Waiter, some
, please.

-Champagne?

Aren't you eating?

Oh, I forgot.

You've dined, haven't you?

-Haven't you?

-Suppose I told you I
hadn't even lunched.

-I wouldn't believe you.

And I think I know what favor
you are going to ask me.

-My dear Pierre,
you're as good as gold.

-Mm.

-Do you have it.

-Oh!

No.

No, but I saw it.

It's not worth a thing.

You'll not even get
50 francs for it.

Believe me, I know.

-Will you kindly
do as I told you?

-But I can get you much better.

-No.

-But I-- it's got diamonds--
-No.

Don't you worry about
what it's worth.

That's the one I want.

Now do as I tell you.

-All right.

All right.

-But you got mighty funny taste.

-Oh, you look happy.

-I am.

-Something special?

-It's very special.

-I couldn't find my
uncle, so I hurried back.

-Very special.

I see what you mean.

-Oh, Mademoiselle Chevier,
let me introduce to you

my worthless friend,
Roland Latour.

-Enchanted to meet
you, Mademoiselle.

-You should be.

Shall we dance?

-Yes, I'll wait right here.

I'm counting on you.

Mm, what's this?

-Did you see that?

-She got his watch.

-What?

-You know, usually
at this time I

get the most irresistible
desire to leave.

I stop hearing the music.

I stop listening to
the conversation.

All I seem to hear
is the ticking

of my watch telling me
it's time to go home.

-And tonight?

-Tonight I don't
even hear my watch.

-Oh, there's my uncle now!

-But-- but-- pardon me.

-This time you got it?

-Are you satisfied?

-My dear, you did me
a very great favor.

-Is it that important?

-Well, you wouldn't
understand, naturally.

It concerns a grave matter.

-Well, now, Your
Excellency, we're even.

-Not quite.

I still need your services.

-Another one?

-No.

It's just a question
of returning

this one to its owner.

-What'll I tell him, that I
picked it up off the floor?

-Not at all.

You're going to put it back
in his pocket as discreetly

as you took it out.

-What?

-Put it back in his pocket.

-Put it back in his pocket?

-That should be easy,
even for a beginner.

-But they never taught us that.

I wasn't gone very
long this time, was I?

-Even longer than before.

I was getting older
by the minute.

I kept wanting to
look at my watch.

You must have been away
at least-- that's funny,

my watch is gone.

-Are you sure you had it?

-Well, I think so.

Yes!

Don't you remember?

I showed it two you when
it was five past 10:00.

-Oh, that's right.

Well, uh, maybe it's
in another pocket?

-Oh, no.

Oh, no, I never--
that's strange.

I never put it in that pocket.

-Well, my dear.

-Where have you
been all evening?

You keep appearing
and disappearing

like a magician's rabbit.

-Well, you know what an embassy
ball is for an ambassador.

-I know what a bore it is
for an ambassador's wife.

I'm feeling neglected.

-Well, I'm sorry.

But now that I'm free
of a great burden,

I'm completely at your disposal.

Would you dance?

-I wish to speak to you.

-Dvorak, you are not going
to take your niece away.

-Just for a few minutes.

-Hurry back.

-Mademoiselle, your
mission is fulfilled.

His Excellency has
asked me to tell you

how completely satisfied
he is with your work

and to give you this.

Naturally, you will keep
all the clothes, everything.

And now, Mademoiselle,
good night.

-You mean you're kicking me out?

-Oh, not at all.

Only that your presence
here is no longer desirable.

Oh, I almost forgot--
His Excellency

asked me to remind
you that he's counting

on your discretion, which
will ensure you his own.

-But Baron, can't I go
back for just a moment?

-No, that is impossible.

-But I'd like to--

-I'll tell Monsieur de Roche
that my niece wasn't feeling

well and that she has asked
me to say good night for her.

-Mademoiselle, you're
forgetting something.

-You are forgetting
something else, Mademoiselle.

Me!

-Oh, I'm sorry,
but my uncle, uh,

said it was time
for me to go home

and that he'd make my excuses--

-But it's so early.

-I know, but well, he
thought-- my first ball,

and I shouldn't stay
too late, you know?

-Believe me that your
uncle is a prude.

Come on, just one more.
-No, but I must go.

Believe me.

-I'll explain to him.

All right, all right,
then I'll take you home.

-But I-- I can't--
-Why?

You don't think I'd let
you go home alone, do you?

-But I'll be all right.

I mean--

-You certainly will be,
because I'm going with you.

-Oh, Pierre, Pierre!

Oh, I just made it.

You were leaving
without seeing me.

-Oh, stop whining.

-I'm not asking
for alms, old man.

After all, I keep a
record of what I owe you.

-All right, add
this to the account.

-Oh, but, uh--
-That's all I have on me.

-Beautiful, thanks.

Uh, I'll be at your
house in the morning.

I simply must tell my
troubles to somebody.

-Oh, no, no, no,
not to me again.

-Pierre, if you don't
help me, I shall

be thrown out in the street.

-Not another sou.

-Very well, then.

I shall have to sleep
on a park bench.

But don't let that bother you.

-Did you call, my friend?

-Yes.

I can't bear to think of you
sleeping on a park bench.

The are not wide enough.

Look, I'm leaving tomorrow
night for a week or so.

Idiot.

Diplomatic mission.

You may use my house
until I come back.

-You are a pal.

-Well, uh, thank you very
much, and-- and good night.

-Why are you in such a hurry?

We are not at your uncle's yet.

-Oh.

Oh, that's right.

I always get mixed up.

Well, um, why did you stop here?

-Because I don't want
to be interrupted again

by your uncle coming back.

I have something to say to you.

-Have you?

-Yes.

It's nothing.

There.

Is that better?

I wish I could say what I feel.

But with you, somehow
it's difficult.

You are crying.

I'm sorry.

Do you always cry with a kiss?

-I don't know.

This is the first time.

-That you have cried?

-That I've been kissed.

-First ball, first dance
partner, first kiss?

It's too good to be true.

-But it is.

-But then why are you crying?

-I always cry when I'm happy.

-And have you cried often?

-This is the first time.

-This is an occasion.

-Oh, good evening, sir.

-Good evening, my friend.

-Lovely night.

-Never fall in love, Laurent.

Good night.

-Good night, sir.

-You know him?

-Oh, yes.

-And he let you swipe
flowers out of that garden?

-Naturally!

It's my garden.

-Oh!

That's your house.

-Yes.

-Beautiful.

You-- you live there alone?

-Yes, all alone.

That is, with Flora.

-Flora?

-Hm?

Yes, that's her name.

Flora.

She's very cute.

And smart, too.

One of the smartest
dogs you ever saw.

Oh, a dog.

-What did you think?

-Oh, nothing.

-Well, don't think it.

And tell me, how did you
learn to whistle like that?

-Oh, it's very simple.

You just-- you just
put your tongue

against your lower teeth-- eh?

Like that.

And then you put your two
fingers, see, under your tongue

like that.

-Mm-hm.

-And you blow, OK?

You just go-- -Amazing.

You put your two fingers like--

-Yeah, put your tongue
against your lower--

-And then something like that.

And then you blow.

-And then you blow.

-No, blow again.

-It doesn't work.

-Oh, thank you very much,
and-- and good night.

-Not yet!

When am I going
to see you again?

-Oh, uh, I don't know.

I-- I'm going back
to Geneva tomorrow.

-To Geneva?

-Yes, I-- I go to school there.

-I can't believe it!

That's marvelous!

I'm leaving for
Geneva tomorrow, too.

We can travel together.

You are taking the night
express, of course?

-Well, uh--
-The 6 o'clock, then?

That one is no good.

It's always late.

-Well, that's the
one I'm taking.

-It doesn't matter.

I'll take you.

It would be a delightful trip.

So I'll meet you at the station.

-Oh.

-You-- you-- you wouldn't care
to let me make you cry again?

-No.

-Until tomorrow, then.

Don't forget.

Good night.

-Good night.

PROFESSOR ARISTIDE
Who's there?

Oh, why on Earth are you
coming home at this hour?

You know the rules--
in by midnight.

-I saw a gentleman.

A very elegant gentleman.

And I followed him.

He-- oh, he had a
magnificent pearl stickpin.

Oh, that's different.

Pearl stickpin, eh?

-Uh-huh.

I followed him and followed
him until he got on the bus,

and then I-- -Never
mind the details.

Where's the pin?

I didn't get it.

-Why not?

-I got scared.

PROFESSOR ARISTIDE
You're lying.

-Oh, no!

I swear it on the
head of my father.

No, no, no.

Not to me.

No, not to me.

And remember,
young lady, I'm not

running a charitable
institution here.

Go on, get to bed.

-Ah, good morning, gent-- mm.

I hope nothing went wrong
at the embassy ball.

-Well, hope again.

-You mean you didn't
have much, uh, success?

-Nothing.

-Gentlemen, it cost
me 10,000 francs

to get you into that ball.

I'm not in the habit of
wasting 10,000 francs.

I work too hard for my money.

I demand an explanation.

-We demand one, too.

-Now there must have been
a king's ransom in jewels

at that ball last
night, and you say

that you didn't get anything?

Don't tell me.

-We don't operate unless
we have an exclusive.

-We don't engage
in a free-for-all

where somebody slips up
and we might get nabbed.

-I tell you, there was nobody.

What are you looking at?

-And you said you didn't
know who was there.

-Then would you please
explain how one of your pupils

could get into the
embassy ball, unless you

had made the arrangement?

-Yes, that's the one.

The one in the checker blouse.

-The girl.

-Ah.

Bring me model number seven.

Today we are going
to take up some

of the problems in
the social world.

Arlette, my dear, come here.

A most opportune moment
to achieve our purpose

is while dancing.

Come on, pretend you're dancing.

First ball, first dance
partner, first kiss.

You wouldn't care to let
me make you cry again?

I'll meet you at the station.

Don't forget.

-Permit me to introduce
Monsieur Pierre de

Roche, attache at the embassy.

I might have known it.

A face as honest as yours
could only be dishonest.

Could only lie.

But not to me, do you hear?

Get out of here, you thief!

Get out,
you double-crosser!

Get out.

-Give her a chance to explain.

-If you don't want
to be kicked out

took I advise you to shut up!

Hand over the watch you stole.

-But I didn't steal it.

-My men saw you.

-Well, didn't they
see me put it back?

-No, they didn't.

So you put it back, eh?

-My word of honor.

-Your word.

You just said that
you didn't steal it.

How could you put it back
if you didn't steal it?

-I took it, but I put it back.

-Liar!

Ingrate.

Without me, you wouldn't
know how to steal.

Now that you do, you
want to keep it all.

Get out of here, you crook!

Get out and stay out!
-That's just what I will do.

I'd rather be back in
reform school than here

at your filthy old school.

We come here for
honest jobs, and you--

you make thieves out of us.

They'll catch up with
you one of these days.

And you'll see, you see.

And I hope it's soon!

-You stay there.

Pillow, blankets,
sandwiches, fresh fruit.

Pillows, blankets,
sandwiches, fresh fruit.

-Oh, here you are!

At last.

I was beginning to get worried.

How are you?

Where is your porter?

-I haven't any.

-Where is you baggage?

-I haven't any.

-Oh!

You mean-- you mean to
travel without baggage?

-No, no, I'm-- I'm not leaving.

I just came down to say
goodbye and-- and to explain--

-Goodbye?

You are joking, of course.

-No, no, I'm not.

Honest, I'm not.

-But that's absurd,
when only last night--

-I know.

A lot of things have
happened since last night--

-Then when are you leaving?

-I'm not leaving at all.

-At all?

-No.

-You see?

Flora is disappointed, too.

Then may I see you
when I get back?

-No, I'm sorry.

-You don't want to see me again?

-Yes-- yes, I do, very much.

But, uh-- but I won't
be able to see you

for a-- a long, long time.

-A long, long time?

Are they going to lock you up?

-Yes, they are.

-Who, your uncle?

-My uncle?

-What are you trying to say?

-I'm trying to tell
you that I, uh,

that I ran away from
a reform school.

-Reform school?

You don't expect
me to believe that.

-Yes, I do.

-Did the ambassador tell
you why he wanted my watch?

-No.

He just said it
was very important

that I get it for him.

-You did a terrible thing.

-I'm sorry, I--
-I must phone.

-But wait, your
train'll be leaving!

Wait for me.

Wait for me right there.

All aboard!

-Just a minute!

Wait a minute!

But if your husband
saw my watch,

he saw your picture in
the back, don't you see?

What do you mean
I shouldn't worry?

Of course I do,
but this is no time--

-What?

-Train is leaving!

-What?

They found nothing
in the compartment?

But that's not possible.

My papers were there, my
briefcase, my baggage.

Did they jump out of the window?

-And my dog, Flora.

If anything happened to Flora,
I-- it's your job to find them!

That's all!

-I brought your things back.

-Thanks!

Thanks.

I-- I'll be right down.

-I-- I had to ride all the
way to the next station,

and it was a long walk back.

-You shouldn't have done that.

-Well, I didn't want you to
lose your dog and your luggage

on my account.

-Sorry I can't open the door.

My man thought I'd gone and
he locked up everything.

I had to climb through a
window to get in myself.

-Here's your umbrella.

-Thanks.

-And here's your Flora.

Well, hello, little girl.

What an adventure, huh?

-Well, good night.

-Where are you going?

-Back to the reform school.

-At this time of night?

-Oh, that's all right.

You can always get in.

-Wait a minute.

What's the matter?

Are you homesick for
that reform school?

-Oh, that's not it.

It'll have to be
done sooner or later.

-What will they do to you?

-First, they'll make me
account for every minute I've

been away.

-Inquisitive, hm?

And what are you
going to tell them?

-The truth.

-The tr-- you aren't
going to tell them

about-- at the embassy ball?

-I'll have to.

-Well, suppose we talk this
all out tomorrow morning?

-Tomorrow morning?

They won't let me
have any visitors.

-No, I mean you can
stay here tonight.

Come on, you are dead tired.

Pierre, alone?

With you?

-I assure you I know how to
behave with a young lady.

-So I've noticed.

-What's the matter?

That stupid
servant didn't make up the bed.

-Yes?

-Um, do you, uh,
mind if I wear this?

-I certainly do.

Put it back at once.

It belongs to my sister.

-If I could suggest
something, um--

-You have suggested enough.

-Well, I was only
going to suggest

that you sleep in the other
room, and I could sleep here.

I've slept without
sheets before.

-Oh, so have I.

-Here, let me help
you make the bed.

-No, I don't need your help,
and I don't want your advice.

You were very kind,
and I am duly grateful.

Danke schoen, merci
beaucoup, good night.

Get the idea?

Gute Nacht.

Buona sera.

Bon nuit.

-Well, what now?

-Uh, I didn't want to leave
the wrong impression with you,

so I'd like to
finish telling you--

What of it now?

I-- I'm sleepy.

-Look, I only stole once.

No, twice.

No, once.

Well, anyway, I
gave them both back.

-So you gave it back
so you only stole once.

I'll keep that in mind.

And now, good night.

Good night.

-You know why I stole?

No.

And frankly, I don't--

-It's because I
wanted to get married.

-You stole because you
wanted to get married?

-Yes, I wanted to buy a husband.

-To buy what?

-You know, like a
marriage in name only.

Can you guess why?

-No.

And I am not going to guess.

You'll tell me anyway.

-Because if I was
married, I wouldn't

have to go back to
the reform school.

-What?

-Yes, that's the law.

Once you're married,
you're free.

Yves told me so.

-And who is this Yves who
knows so much about the law?

-Oh, he's my friend.

My only friend.

He could have
gotten me a husband,

only I'd have to pay for it.

That's why I stole.

Once I was married, I--
I could start a new life.

-A new life.

-Now do you see?

Not very clearly.

-Well, let me explain it to you.

First-- -Oh, no, not now.

It's really too late.

You can finish telling me about
your life tomorrow morning.

And now, to bed.

And sweet dreams.

And if I hear another
word out of you tonight,

I won't answer for
the consequences.

-Buona sera.

Buena noche.

Bon nuit.

Gute nacht.

-Well, if it isn't
Monsieur Roland.

-Hello there, Jean.

-Sir.

-Hello.

You still here?

-No.

I mean, uh, yes.

For the love of-- I completely
forgot I offered you my house.

-What?

Obviously I can't stay here.

Why, I've checked
out of my hotel.

It'll be a calamity.

-Well, you see, it's like this.

I-- that is, uh-- oh,
we'll manage somehow.

-No, I-- I have to--
-Well, go ahead.

-Yeah, well, no, no,
the fact is I, uh, heh--

-Oh.

I get it.

-Mm-hm.

-Uh-uh.

And, uh, bring me the change.

Listen, old man.

-Hm?

-My affairs are in
a terrible state.

I want to end it
once and for all.

-It might save us
both a lot of bother.

Would you like my revolver?

-Oh, not at all, no.

I wouldn't end it that way.

Man like me doesn't
give up the ship.

He-- he fights courageously.

-And how much do you need
to fight courageously?

-Mm, about, uh, 10,000 francs?

-Yes, for 10,000, I
could settle everything.

I could go to the colonies
and start a new life.

-A new life?

You, too?

-What do you mean, me too?

-Are you quite sure that
with 10,000 francs, you--

-Oh, positively, yes.

Of course with
15,000, I could start

a really new life, first class.

-I think I have a way for
you to earn the 10,000.

-15,000.

-Ten.

-Look, my old friend, a
really first-class new life--

-Do you remember the
girl I was dancing

with at the embassy ball?

-Dvorak's niece.

-Yes, that's the one.

Only she's not Dvorak's niece.

-Oh, she's not his niece, huh?

-She's going to get married.

-Really?

To you?

-No, to you.

-To me?

-Yes, to you.

And believe me, you'll never
find a nicer or more charming

girl.

Good morning.

-Good morning.

Do you take coffee
in the morning?

-Yes.

Er, that is, no.

I mean, not this morning.

-From what you
said last night, I

gather everything would be
fine if only you were married.

-Yes.

Everything.

-I've given it a lot of thought.

After all, you did me a
favor, and I'm returning it.

-Oh, you don't have to--

-Naturally, my friend
Roland would only

marry you under
certain conditions.

-Roland?

-Yes.

Yes, Roland.

Now the marriage would
be perfectly legal--

although it wouldn't
tie either of you down.

Immediately after
the ceremony, you

would each be free
to go your own way.

-I see.

-You don't seem
that enthusiastic.

Wasn't this what you wanted?

Don't you like the idea?

-Yes, of course.

-Well, then what's the matter
with you all of a sudden?

-Oh, n-nothing.

Nothing at all.

-What are you thinking about?

-What happened after the
ball, when you kissed me.

-Please.

Let's not talk about that.

I can understand Roland is
nobody is to get excited about,

but this might
work out very well.

He isn't a bad fellow,
when you get to know him.

The marriage banns
can be published

and the whole thing
completed within a week.

And during that time, of
course, you can stay here.

-Then I accept.

Monsieur, the car

is waiting to take
you to the station.

-I'm coming.

-You're leaving?

-Why, yes.

-Where are you going?

To Geneva, of course.

-Oh.

-Come in.

Monsieur, they

are waiting for you in
the conference room.

-Oh.

Tell them-- tell
them I'm sorry but I

must go back to
Paris immediately.

-Hello, Laurent.

-What can I do for you, sir?

-Who the-- who are you?

-I'm the butler.

-Whose butler?

-Monsieur's butler.

-Monsieur who?

-Monsieur Pierre de Roche.

-Ah.

You are Monsieur Pierre
de Roche's butler?

-Yes, sir, that I am.

-Is Monsieur Pierre
de Roche at home?

-No, sir.

Monsieur Pierre de
Roche is in Geneva.

-Ah.

-And the probably won't be
home until the end of the week.

-What is it I hear?

-Those, Monsieur,
are two friends

of the boss-- a
gentleman and a lady.

-Mm-hm.

And, could I speak to
these friends of your boss?

-I'll see if they are in, sir.

Whom shall I announce, sir?

-Monsieur Pierre de Roche.

The boss.

-Yes, sir.

Oh!

I beg your pardon, boss!

Welcome home, sir.

Would you mind getting
my bags in the taxi?

-Of course, sir.

Right away.

Come in, please, sir.

Oh.

-Bravo, bravo.

My,
what a pleasant surprise.

We hadn't expected
you quite so soon.

-Hope I'm not intruding.

-Oh, how perfectly silly.

Of course not.

-Ahem.

-Oh.

Won't you, er, sit down?

-You are very kind.

Pierre!

Pierre.

Hello, good old Pierre.

How come you're back so soon?

-Am I disturbing you, too?

-Ah?

Oh, not at all, not at all.

-Glass of sherry?

-No, thanks.

-Who would have thought it?

What conduct, what
ease, what savoir-faire!

A real little woman
of the world, eh?

-You must have given
her some lessons.

Oh, yes, I did, I did.

-Mm, I thought as much.

-What do you mean?

-Tell us about your trip.

What are they doing in Geneva?

-Well, for one thing, they
are not showing their legs

the way they are
in Paris this year.

-Thank you so much
for telling me.

-Oh, by the way, who
is the new butler?

-Oh, he's a schoolmate of mine.

-A schoolmate?

From that girls' boarding
school in Geneva, no doubt.

Has he any
identification papers?

-Oh, no, but I-- I
can answer for him.

He's so anxious to
start a new life.

-A new life?

He, too?

Certainly looks
as if my house has

turned into a home for
reformed characters.

-Oh, thanks, old man.

Thanks a lot.

-Well.

-You are leaving?

-Yes, I'm going to get dressed.

If you don't mind.

You know, like
they do in Geneva?

-Ah, she's enchanting.

Mind you, that girl has
brains as well as beauty.

Let me show you some
of the snapshots

I took of her with your camera.

Not bad for an amateur, eh?

-Oh, very well, it's your loss.

Hm.

Well, in that case, we're better
get down to serious business.

-Not money, by any chance?

-Yes.

This time, not for me.

You realize, of
course, I had to buy

her something decent to wear.

-A bathing suit?

-Sun suit.

Naturally one or two
other little things.

You don't expect a man like
me to marry a woman in rags.

Eh, here are the bills.

-Frankly, I don't get it.

Was it really necessary
to buy all this

for a girl you'll
see for five minutes

at the marriage ceremony?

-The fact is, I'm beginning to
wonder if our marriage really

will be one in, uh, name only.

You know, I firmly
believe that the root

of all my past troubles
has been sheer loneliness.

If I could feel someone by my
side, always ready to advise,

to sympathize, to
feel the tender

touch of a feminine hand.

-You-- you are
joking, of course.

-Oh, not at all, no.

Arlette and I get on
like a house afire.

And do you see the
way she snaps up

any little hints
I happen to drop?

Surely you've noticed the
change in her deportment.

Huh, not to mention her grammar.

-Now look, Roland.

Just because a girl
catches on quickly and--

and has beautiful
legs, that's not

enough to build the
pyramid of marriage on.

-Do you mean to say that charm
and grace aren't important?

-Yes, they are.

But what do you know about her?

Her family, uh--

-Oh, we'll go to the colonies,
where anybody who plays bridge

is accepted.

I'll teach her the
strong no trump.

-And what will you live on?

-Your money, first.

-It won't go very far.

Tahiti?

We could live on seafood,
coconuts, bananas.

Ah, those South Seas
are simply enchanting.

Canoes, gardens of flowers,
lovely native songs.

And at night-- bridge.

-Who's in there?

-Oh, uh, someone or other.

-Male or female?

-Why should you care?

-Look, Yves, you're not
playing fiar with me.

-Don't be a fool.

I just don't want you to
get mixed up in something

that's none of your business.

-Listen, are we pals?

Yes or no?

-Of course we are.

You know that.

But I'm also the sort of
servant you approve of.

Discreet.

Look for yourself.

Are you afraid, Pierre?

Of
course I'm not afraid.

But it's not exactly
comfortable when your husband

knows I had your
picture in my watch.

-But he doesn't know.

When he's jealous,
he's terrible,

and he has never been
sweeter or more considerate

than he is right now.

-Shh!

Not so loud, I beg of you.

-Is there someone
else in the house?

-Hm?

No.

But the servants might hear.

-Oh, your secretary?

-What will you think of next?

She only comes on Wednesday.

-Mm.

Pretty.

-Hideous.

Fake glasses and pigeon-toed.

-What do you think of this
one for the wedding tomorrow?

Oh, I beg your pardon.

My, what a pleasant surprise.

And how is His Excellency?

Very well, I hope.

-Fine.

And how is your uncle?

-Fine, fine.

I'm afraid I've neglected
him a little of late.

And now if you'll excuse me,
the dressmaker's waiting.

Dress fittings, you
know, such a deadly bore.

See you soon, I hope.

-Let me explain to you--
-Oh, it's quite clear.

I understand perfectly.

No.

No, it isn't clear at all.

You are completely mistaken.

-Oh, stop lying.

And give me back my picture.

Now I understand
why you invented

that silly story which
didn't make sense.

-This girl means nothing to me.

You'll soon be convinced.

-Of course not.

You're just buying
her pretty clothes

because you are sorry for her.

Pierre, I want my picture back.

-I already told you,
your husband took it.

Look for yourself.

-You can be irritating
beyond words.

What do you want?

Haven't I got enough trouble?

Females.

Females!

Always under your
feet or in your hair.

Nothing but trouble.

I've got half a mind to
trade you in for a male dog.

Get away.

Get away, go on.

Go on!

-Poor old funny-face.

I know I take it out on you,
but I don't really mean it.

What shall I do about it?

Pierre, where are you?

Oh, there you are.

Listen, old man, I've
come up to the courthouse.

Everything is in order.

The banns are published.

I must say it gave my quite
a kick to see my name right

alongside Arlette's.

Oh, by the way, that reminds me.

You owe me 300 francs to
cover the cost of the license.

Now here's the itemized account.

-Let's not be hasty.

-Oh, no, this only played once.

You see, these
papers are essential

to the marriage and the big
day's tomorrow, don't forget.

-There is not going
to be any marriage.

-No, there's not-- what
are you talking about?

-I refuse to be a
party to this farce.

-That's rather a sudden
switch, isn't it?

-Sudden?

For the last two nights
I haven't slept a wink.

-Why?

-Because.

Because she's on
my mind constantly.

It's on account of her I
rushed back from Geneva.

When she's around, I'm
seized with a terrible desire

to take her in my
arms, and all I

do is to be rude
and unkind to her.

The whole thing is insane.

But I can't fight
against it any longer.

You're right, Roland.

Career, social
position-- what do

they matter compared to love?

-Who's talking now?

Come on, old man,
pullyourself together.

It's quite different with me.

I can marry Arlette
because I blotted myself

from copybook ages ago.

You'd be amazed the number
of houses I'm not invited to.

But you, you have a brilliant
future, a real career.

For you to marry Arlette is
out of the question, definitely

out.

As for anything else, well,
believe me, Pierre, this

is her one chance to
lead an honest life.

Don't take it away from her.

And don't make a fool
of yourself, either.

Look at me.

It's through a series
of just such brainstorms

that I landed where I am
now-- with a ticket to Tahiti.

One, mark you.

She didn't want to come.

I asked her.

She turned me down.

It's up to you, Pierre.

Let her go.

-All right.

All right, all right,
go and marry her.

But do it quickly, as
quickly as possible.

Article 212.

Husband and wife owe one
another mutual fidelity, mutual

sympathy and mutual assistance.

Article 213.

The husband, as
head of the family,

has the right to designate
the place of mutual residence.

The wife is obligated
to live there with him,

and her husband, in
turn, to receive her.

Will, er, the bride
and groom please rise?

Monsieur Roland Latour, do you
take for your wife Mademoiselle

Arlette Lafon, present here?

-Yes, Your Honor.

Yes, I do.

-Mademoiselle
Arlette Lafon, do you

take as your husband Monsieur
Roland Latour, present here?

-Uh, excuse me, would you
please read article 213 again?

-The husband, head
of the family,

has the right to designate
the place of mutual residence.

The wife is obligated
to live with him there,

and the husband, in
turn, to receive her.

-Oh.

-You mustn't say, "oh."

Say-- say yes.

-I know.

-Mademoiselle
Arlette Lafon, do you

take as your husband Monsieur
Roland Latour, present here?

-Uh, no.

-Excuse us, Your Honor.

My-- my fiancee's
a little upset.

We'll, uh, we'll be
back another day.

I hope.

-Just a moment, Madam.

Oh, pardon me-- Mademoiselle.

I congratulate you.

For 30 years now, I have
had a monotonous job.

I've been marrying
couple after couple,

asked them all the
same questions,

and they all give
me the same answer.

And just when I
felt bored to death,

you come along and have
the courage to say no!

Bravo, Mademoiselle!

Believe me, it is much
better for a marriage

not to come than
for it to end in divorce.

Bravo!

-Thank you.

Thank you very much, Your Honor.

-Why are you dressed like that?

-If you should
ever think of me, I

want you to think
of me like this.

-I will.

-That first dance
meant so much to me.

Pierre, one last dance?

-I'm already late.

-I will be a memory to put
away with the first one.

Please?

-I think it would
be better not to.

-But you don't know how
much it would mean to me.

-I'd rather not.

-Just one last dance?

-Goodbye.

-Well, I guess I'll
get my things together.

-Giving up, hm?

-If I thought it was any
use, I'd never give up.

But as things are--
-But as things are.

It's a good thing you
gave up being a crook.

There was no future
in it for you.

You haven't enough insight.

Enough observation.

Enough understanding
of human nature.

Enough, uh, je-ne-sais-quoi.

To be quite frank,
you're not bright enough.

Look.

Why does a man pace back and
forth like this for hours?

To exercise?

No.

Another question-- why does a
man stand in front of a mirror

like this, staring like this?

To admire himself?

To catch a glimpse
of his necktie?

No.

Still another question--
why does a man

refuse to dance
with a pretty girl?

Is it such a big thing?

No, it's nothing.

Unless-- unless he's in love.

Then a dance is a big thing.

Then he has to fight it, because
it can lead to-- believe me,

it can lead.

-Well, all right,
all right, then.

Why shouldn't it lead?

Why should he have to fight it?

If he loves me, why doesn't
he just-- just say so?

It would be so easy.

And so nice.

-Because, my poor child, it's
not true that a man in love

forgets everything.

75%, perhaps.

For certain emotional
type like me, even 80%.

But never everything.

And with what is
left over, he thinks.

Now the boss-- perhaps he's
thinking of the 10 years

he studied to be a diplomat.

Even to marry you, it's
not so easy to toss

those ten years
out of the window.

-Why should he have to toss
them out of thie window?

Listen.

For example, he's on his way
to the embassy reception.

Could he take you with him?

-And why not?

Why should he be ashamed of me?

-Oh, he should maybe
be proud of you?

He should maybe present you
to the ambassador like this.

Uh, you remember this little
girl, Your Excellency?

She steals watches.

Yeah?

-You mean I'm not good
enough, maybe, hm?

That an ambassador who gets
somebody to steal for him,

or his wife, who--
who does love him,

or the baron who's an
accomplice to a crime

just to keep his
own bread buttered,

they think I'm not good enough
to associate with them, huh?

Well, I'll just show
Monsieur Pierre de Roche

that I can handle the whole mess
of 'em, and make 'em like it!

Yves, are you sure?

You're very sure
that Pierre loves me?

-I swear it.

I swear it on the
head of my father.

FLOWER SELLER
Lilacs?

Lilacs?

-Oh!

All of them.

-Oh, thank you.

Thank you.

-Arlette?

Where is she?

-Oh, she-- she's gone.

-Gone?

Did she tell you
where she was going?

-No, sir.

But she asked where
you were going.

-Where-- did you tell her?

-Yes, sir.

I told her you were going
to the embassy reception.

-Good.

-Sir?

-Yes?

-Shall I put those in water?

-Oh.

-Mm!

-The underlying principle that
must guide our negotiations

is that, in fact,
the situation must

be handled with great delicacy.

-Ooh!

-What?

-No, uh, nothing.

-You said "ooh."

-Who, me?

-Yes, you.

Why did you say "ooh"?

-In the frist place,
I didn't say "ooh."

I said "oh."

-My dear husband, I'm not deaf.

I heard you
distinctly say "ooh."

-My dear, I have no
reason to say "ooh."

I simply said "oh."

Oh!

-Pardon, Baron.

Your niece, Excellency.

-Uncle?

Hello, Uncle.

Hello.

-Oh, Your Excellency.

-This is a pleasure,
Mademoiselle.

You didn't tell me your
charming niece was coming.

Come and sit with me, my dear.

Mademoiselle Chevier,
Baron Dvorak's niece.

-He's introducing
her as my niece!

-Well, isn't she?

-Naturally.

-Now explain to me, my
dear, why you disappeared

so early from the embassy
ball the other night.

Oh, uh-- Well,
uh, my uncle, the Baron,

seemed to think that
since it was my first ball

I shouldn't stay too late.

-Oh, he's old fogey.

Even now he's beginning
to get that "you'd

better go home early" look.

-It isn't late, is it?

-Oh, of course not.

Besides, you've
only just arrived.

-My, what a lovely watch.

-Yes.

Isn't that beautiful?

Watches are my weakness.

Oh. Mine, too.

Really?

-Mademoiselle, may
I have the pleasure?

-Oh?

-My pleasure.

Seniority.

Thank you.

The trouble with
seniority is that it's

always wasted on old men!

-Darling, since you're
so anxious to dance,

I'll accommodate you.

-Monsieur.

-Your Excellency.

-Oh, good evening, Pierre.

-Good evening, sir.

How are you tonight, sir?

-I'm very well, thank you.

-I-- I'm glad.

-Oh.

I have a state secret to
tell you-- my shoes pinch.

-She's dancing with de Roche!

-My god, she's captivated him.

-This is terrible.

Do you realize our
responsibility?

-Our responsibility?

-Yes, ours.

-Excellency, it was really you--

-Oh, no, no, no, no.

Don't be technical.

This could have
serious complications.

Think of something.

Come on, think, think, think.

-I am, Your Excellency, I am.

-Well, come on.

-You have many conquests.

The minister seems to
find you irresistible.

-Ridiculous, isn't it?

-Mm, he is a man
of excellent taste.

-Spare me the sarcasm.

-I meant it.

-Then spare me your charm.

-Arlette, I was very
happy to find you here.

-Did you come to the
ball to quarrel with me?

You wanted to dance.

At least enjoy it.

-Very generous of you.

-Did you notice the
ambassador and his wife?

How nicely they danced?

How she smiled at him?

I wonder how charmingly they
would smile at me if you hadn't

taken that picture
out of my watch.

-So you finally figured it out.

-Yes.

Thank you.

Thank you very much.

-I must say, it took
you a long time.

Personally I don't
think you have

much future in the
diplomatic corps.

-No?

-You haven't enough
insight, enough, uh,

understanding of human nature.

Enough je-ne-sais-quoi.

-I know you are right,
completely right.

It worries me.

I need someone to help me.

Someone clever, with the
je-ne-sais-quoi that I lack.

-Someone like a secretary?

-No, not exactly.

Someone more like a wife.

I don't suppose-- I don't
suppose you'd be interested.

-Well, it doesn't
sound like much

of a future, what with getting
you out of scrapes with women

and recovering all the
luggage that you lose.

Being gracious to a lot
of high-class crooks

like the ambassador.

In no time at all,
you'll probably

have me stealing
watches for you, too.

No, it-- it doesn't
sound very appealing.

I don't even know why
I-- I would consider it.

No.

Oh, no, I-- well, why should I?

-Because I was your first
partner at your first ball.

Because a young
girl's first ball

is a very important
event which she

should remember all her life.

Because I want no one
else in your thoughts,

in your memories.

Because I love you.

-We must find a solution.

-A solution, that's it.

-You have one?

-No.

-Oh, of course not.

I have.

Turn your lie into a reality.

Adopt her.

-Make her my niece?

-Well, what do you want?

An ugly black scandal
or a lovely young niece?

-Oh.

-Ah, but my darling,
aren't you happy?

-Yes, very happy.

-Well, why aren't you crying?

-But I am, darling.