Original subtitles

NOBODY'S CHILDREN

- Hold it there, sir. - What is it?

- They're blasting. - Where?

- Up top. - I see.

- That's the last one. - Keep up the good work.

Good-bye, sir.

Get to work!

Start cleaning that up.

You others grab shovels and start digging.

- Where? - Below where they blasted.

Come on, move it! I'm talking to you!

What's going on?

See those rocks up there?

Nothing's gonna happen. Now get to work!

Go on!

That's what he said last time,

and poor Matteo got crushed.

What are you mumbling about? Speak up!

I said I'm not risking my hide.

Then go on! Beat it!

If I see you around here again, I'll let you have it!

If anyone cares to follow his example, step forward.

Come on!

If you wanna work with me, you do as I say.

Now stop wasting time! Go on!

- Hello, sir. - Francesco, where are you going?

- Anselmo just fired me. - Why?

I said it was dangerous working beneath those rocks.

I have three little kids. If anything happened to me -

I see. Wait here.

Get to work!

Just a moment, Anselmo.

- Speaking to me, sir? - Yes.

Get those men away from there. It's not safe.

Don't worry. There's no danger. Go on!

I said to wait.

I don't want any accidents. We've had too many already.

Then ask the count what you should do.

You know perfectly well yourself.

Very well. You men hear that?

Then go work over there, and be careful not to get hurt.

How's that, Count?

- Anselmo. - Yes, sir.

Come here.

Why did you fire that man?

He's a loafer. All he does is grumble.

He has a family.

Think twice before you turn him out in the street.

We're losing our best men. You ride them too hard.

That's one reason everything's going to hell.

- I'm to blame? - That's right.

I simply carry out the countess's orders.

That's not true.

You take advantage of her trust to do whatever you want.

That has to change... and it's going to.

Now give Francesco his job back.

- And look like an idiot? - Don't worry about that.

Come here.

- Yes, sir? - Go back to work.

- Thank you, sir. - Go on.

Sorry, sir.

You had the count's protection this time,

but it won't help you for long.

If he thinks he can push me around -

- Good day, sir. - Poldo, where is all this going?

- To the sawmill. - The order for England?

Yes, the last blocks.

We send them shoddy work, and it's late to boot.

Makes us look awful.

- We did everything we could, sir. - I know it's not your fault.

Go try and prevent any delays at the mill, will you?

You can count on me, sir.

Bernardo, how are you feeling today?

A little better,

but this darned heart just won't work.

I used to scamper up these hills without a thought.

Now I climb a few steps and I'm out of breath.

I'm not good for anything. They'll replace me sooner or later.

No one's going to take your job away.

- You're always so kind, sir. - See you, Bernardo.

Full, what are you doing here?

Luisa!

I went to the quarry to see you. Where were you?

I went into town for medicine for my father.

He had a very bad night.

I just saw him. He doesn't seem any worse.

Maybe during the day, but he suffers at night.

- Don't lose hope. He'll get better. - Let's hope.

Are you more relaxed these days?

You were on edge last time I saw you.

Everything's going wrong. Morale at the quarry is low,

and everyone at home is against me.

I only forget my worries and troubles when I see you.

Let's sit down a minute.

- But - - Just for a moment.

- What if they see us? - I don't care.

I've had enough hiding and skulking about.

But how can we ever hope for your mother's consent?

I'll tell you again: I don't need my mother's consent.

You will be my wife. No one can keep us apart.

- Even if your mother is against it? - Yes, even if she's against it.

I'll go ahead without her permission.

I love you so much,

and I'm ready to give up everything for our love.

How could she stop me from marrying?

Disinherit me? Banish me from her house?

Just as well.

I prefer to make my own way and not depend on her.

Hold it.

- Who authorized these expenditures? - Your son, ma'am.

Why?

He says the equipment is old and needs renovation.

At this rate I'll have to sell the villa to keep the quarry going.

That's what I respectfully pointed out to the count,

but he says the whole system's antiquated and -

His usual ideas. But he won't get his way.

As long as I'm around, things will be done as I say.

When I'm gone,

he can do things his way.

But for now, there shall be no expenditures

without my permission.

What if the count orders me?

I'll speak to Guido myself.

My regards, Countess.

One other thing.

Is my son still seeing that girl?

Yes. I just spotted them again

sharing a tender moment.

Has this been going on a long time?

Since he first took an interest in the quarry.

I see.

But no need to be too concerned.

Luisa's a pretty girl. It's only natural that he would -

No, I'm afraid it's serious. I know my son.

He's too honest to take advantage of a girl.

You think the count's intentions are serious?

I'm afraid so.

Steps must be taken before it's too late.

What steps?

I don't know myself.

I have something in mind.

- Put the car in the garage. - Yes, sir.

There's an urgent letter for management, sir.

Let me have it.

- I'm counting on your silence. - Rest assured, ma'am.

My regards, Countess.

What are you doing here?

I brought the countess the monthly report.

Any orders? - No, you can go.

Hello, Mother.

We got a letter from Taylor in London.

Taylor? What does he say?

He's canceling all pending orders

because we didn't honor the terms of delivery.

He considers us old friends, so he's not suing,

but he'll be taking his business elsewhere.

So we're losing one of our best clients.

Of course.

And we'll end up losing them all.

Don't be so pessimistic.

It's not pessimism.

We're doing nothing to fight off the competition.

We're using the same methods as 30 years ago.

So your father's methods were wrong?

They were fine then, but not now.

I'm sure Father wouldn't hesitate to change them.

So I'm the one driving the business into the ground?

No, Mother.

You're just cautious - too cautious.

You only worry about keeping down costs.

So what's to be done? Let's hear it.

I've told you many times, but you never approve.

No point repeating the same things.

Reply to Taylor's letter as you wish.

What? - Listen to me.

Why don't you talk to Taylor? - Me?

Yes. Convince him to reinstate the orders.

But we can't guarantee delivery.

Yes, we can. Listen.

Go to London to talk to Taylor

but also to buy new equipment.

I'm giving you carte blanche. - Me?

Then go on to Belgium to study things there,

and come back with detailed estimates.

You'll have the means to carry out your plans.

- Are you serious? - Of course.

Then thank you, Mother.

In fact, given the situation,

we mustn't waste any time.

How soon could you leave?

Right away, or Taylor will sign with someone else.

You're right. I'll wire him to let him know.

I'm so happy you made this decision.

You won't regret it. - I hope not.

Full!

Be good, you hear?

Stay here.

Finally...

I was afraid you wouldn't come, sweetheart.

Darling.

Why did you want to see me so late?

- I'm leaving tonight. - For where?

I'm catching the morning train from Milan for London.

- When will you be back? - I don't know. I'm also going to Belgium.

- But why this trip? - I have to go,

to build up business for the quarry.

And your mother agrees?

Yes, I finally convinced her. She's given me carte blanche.

I'll finally push my plans through. They won't hold me back any longer.

What's wrong? Why are you crying?

I don't know...

but your going away like this frightens me.

Don't say that.

We'll be apart for a while,

but you'll always be in my thoughts and in my heart.

Don't you believe me? - Yes.

But what if you forget me?

How could you think such a thing?

You're everything to me.

I'll write you every day,

and I'll send my London address so you can write to me.

Reading your letters, I'll feel like I'm here with you,

holding you tight like I am now.

Luisa!

Good-bye, Luisa.

Don't worry.

- Good-bye, Guido. - I'll be back soon.

Father!

Be strong, my daughter.

I feel like I can't go on without him.

Be comforted by the thought

that our loved ones never truly leave us.

They're always with us.

And remember that you're always welcome in God's house.

Thank you, Don Demetrio.

Don't let her be alone too much.

Don't worry, Don Demetrio.

Luisa, don't take this the wrong way,

but you know you can count on me for anything.

And not just as a friend. If you wish -

No, Poldo.

I can't ever be what you're thinking.

Why?

No, don't ask any questions.

I can't answer.

As you wish.

I must get back to work.

You're not angry at me, are you?

How could I be?

I need your friendship even more than before.

- How's she doing? - How do you think? Poor girl.

She'd better get used to it

and think about finding another place.

You'd throw her out now?

She'll realize at some point that we need a guard.

If that's the problem, I can be your guard.

You, huh?

Not a bad idea.

And what would you guard? The quarry or Luisa?

You don't think -

I don't think anything. Get back to work.

I'm going into town. The countess sent for me.

All right. The mail came.

- When did it arrive? - This morning.

His thoughts immediately went to her.

I wonder what he wrote her.

- Easy enough to find out. - How?

Anyone can open a letter by accident.

No, don't.

It would be helpful to know what he wrote.

He probably included his address so she can write him back.

And if other letters arrive from England?

- Give them to me. - Count on me, ma'am.

- Good day, sir. - Any mail for me?

There's nothing else? - No, sir.

I'd like to place a phone call to Italy.

Luisa Fanti, at the Cava Maggiore in Carrara.

She should be at the telephone office this evening -

No, tomorrow morning around 10:00.

One moment.

It's the main switchboard in Carrara.

- What do they want? - I don't know. You take it.

Hello? A call from London?

All right. I'll take care of it.

I'll let her know.

- May I? - What do you want?

Excuse me.

Has a letter arrived for me by any chance?

The mail's right there. Have a look.

- Thank you. - Expecting a letter from someone?

Yes, a relative. Good day.

Could you inquire again about that call to Italy?

It's almost 1 :00.

One moment, sir.

No one showed up at the telephone office.

- How can that be? - Should I try again?

No, it doesn't matter.

When's the first train for Italy?

Tomorrow at 10:00 a.m.

Book me a sleeping car, please.

- All the men on board? - Yes.

Aren't you coming? - No, I'll be along later.

Good evening, Luisa.

Shut the door. There's a storm brewing.

I need to talk to you. Sit down.

Sit down.

What do you have to tell me?

I think you can imagine.

This situation can't go on.

We need a guard for the quarry,

and the new guard needs a home.

Dear God!

I told you. The storm's starting.

So you're turning me out?

What would you do here all by yourself?

You'll have no trouble finding another place.

The countess will give you some money, of course.

I don't want money.

I just want to stay here.

Why don't you want to leave this house?

Because I was born here. I've always lived here.

Besides...

I wouldn't know where to go.

Be kind. Speak to the countess for me.

If you wanted - - If I wanted...

Perhaps there is a way.

Really? What is it?

You and I could come to an agreement. I'm alone...

and you're alone.

I could move in here. There's plenty of room.

We could become good friends.

Get out of here.

You don't know me, but when I like a girl -

Get out!

Do I frighten you that much?

You disgust me! Let go!

So I disgust you, eh? I see.

You're accustomed to being around gentlemen now.

Think I don't know you're the count's lover?

- That's not true! - Don't deny it.

I even know where you would meet at night.

He didn't disgust you, eh?

He knew how to sweet-talk you.

I bet he even promised to marry you,

and like an idiot you believed him.

You sure made out good on that one.

No doubt about it.

He had a good time and then dropped you!

No, eh?

He left and hasn't written so much as a "thank you."

Just like they always do.

It's not true!

Not true, eh?

Has he written you once since he left?

What would you know?

Don't you come check the mail every day?

Think I fell for that story about some relative?

Don't fool yourself.

Sure, just wait for him to come back,

and be sure to send me a wedding invitation.

Dear God!

Don't cry.

Just don't think about it.

A beautiful girl like you.

I like you, Luisa.

I've always liked you.

Why not?

Let me go!

It's no use yelling. No one can hear.

Get out!

Let me go!

Get out!

Luisa, where are you?

Where are you?

Wait!

Come back!

No note, and her bed's untouched.

She didn't sleep here. What could have happened?

Trying to get out of work because Luisa's gone?

You stayed behind last night.

You must know something.

Come on, out with it!

Have you gone mad? You already asked me.

Get it through your thick head: I don't know anything!

- Then how do you explain this? - What? She decided to leave.

Now get moving.

No, the men are all coming with me.

We have to search and make sure nothing happened to Luisa.

If you don't let us, you'll be responsible.

Fine. We'll call off work while the young lady plays games.

Go on and search, but remember:

I'm not paying you for missed hours!

You want to help?

Then you two go down to the stream.

The rest will search the woods. You two check the train tracks.

We didn't expect you, sir. I'd have sent the car to the station.

It doesn't matter.

Where's my mother? - Upstairs with Anselmo.

It seems there's been some mishap.

A mishap? What happened?

I didn't really understand.

I decided on the spur of the moment to return and just got in.

Forgive me for not sending a telegram.

What's happened?

Antonio said there'd been a mishap.

Say something. What's happened?

Luisa...

Bernardo's daughter, has gone missing.

But how?

No one knows.

She wasn't home this morning.

They've searched everywhere, but so far -

This can't be!

You can't go in.

- Signor Anselmo, it's Poldo. - Let him come in.

What's this? - Luisa's shawl.

Her shawl?

We found it under the mill wheel,

the most treacherous spot in the stream.

- Let's go. - We've searched all morning.

There's no hope left.

But why?

Why?

- You must know! - I know nothing.

You went to talk to her last night and threatened to throw her out.

She killed herself out of desperation!

Out with it!

I don't know a thing. Ask the countess.

No, you better start talking!

Anselmo, you may go.

Poldo, gather everyone you can.

We have to search every inch of that stream.

Hurry. I'll join you in a moment.

Guido, I didn't want to turn her out,

but I thought she'd be better off somewhere else

rather than all alone in that house.

No, you wanted her far away, like you wanted me.

What are you talking about?

Now I see why you sent me off.

- Well, you couldn't marry her. - Why not?

- She was too different. - Different?

No, Mother, don't say another word.

What you did was monstrous.

Why didn't Luisa write me? - How should I know?

You know perfectly well.

Tell the truth.

You intercepted my letters to her.

You can't lie to me anymore. Is that true?

Yes, I did, and I make no apologies.

It's true. I wanted to drive you two apart

and stop you from making a mistake you'd regret.

It was my duty as a mother.

And you never thought of the consequences?

The only thing that matters is getting your way,

and for that you'll sacrifice everyone and everything.

You should be proud.

You drove that poor girl to desperation, when her only crime was loving me.

And now you've lost your son.

Don't force me to say things no son should say to his mother!

There's such a racket in my head.

I can't remember a thing.

What am I doing here?

Try to rest. You mustn't tire yourself out.

Marta!

It's that old shepherd Tonio.

He's always checking to make sure I'm still alive.

Marta!

Tonio, what's new?

People are crazier by the day.

A girl threw herself in the stream last night.

The daughter of a guard at a quarry, it seems.

Poor thing. Why did she kill herself?

Who knows?

They're still searching for the body, but with the flood,

who knows where she ended up? Let's go.

Stop by again soon.

- Nothing, sir. - We have to keep looking.

I'm afraid it's no use now.

I fell, and that's all I remember.

I found you passed out in the woods. You were like a corpse.

You were delirious with fever and cried out, " Guido!"

I never want to hear that name again.

It's true.

He left because he'd grown tired of me

and wasn't brave enough to tell me.

And I believed him right up to the end.

You must let them know you're here.

No, I don't want to see any of them again.

But they'll think you're dead.

Let them!

Besides...

I really would have killed myself if - - lf?

I'm expecting a child.

That's the only reason I could go on.

A child. Does he know?

No, he has no idea,

and I don't care if he knows!

I thought you might leave without saying good-bye.

Going back to London?

Yes, but not to handle any more business.

I'll stay a few days only to wrap up what I started.

Where will you go after that?

I don't know yet.

I'll travel around. I'll keep you posted.

When will you come back?

I don't know. There are too many sad memories here.

Try to understand.

Forgive me, Guido!

Good-bye.

Thank you for everything, Marta.

Where will go now? Back to your home?

No, there's no point. They'd just turn me out.

Better if they all think I killed myself.

At least they'll leave me alone.

Why don't you tell his mother everything?

You're expecting his child. They can't abandon you like this.

What would I ask her for? Money?

To make up for what he did to me?

I want nothing from them!

Then what will you do?

I'll look for work,

far from here, where no one knows me.

And when the child's born?

Dear God, what will I do?

Why not stay here with me?

Here?

All I can offer is a life of poverty and hard work.

You can help me around here.

Then, when the baby's born,

you can decide what to do, all right?

Oh, thank you!

- Did he wake up? - Yes.

All he does is eat and sleep.

Mommy's little darling.

Did you take a nap?

I kept him tied up out of fear he'd bite someone.

I was only safe because I brought him food.

Only a mad dog could break a chain like this.

- We have to find it and kill it. - Why kill the poor thing?

- The usual bleeding heart. - Cut it out.

- It ran into those bushes. - No, it went that way.

- Impossible. - Come on.

Take the dog. I'll be along soon.

Have some wine.

What did you find out?

I sent reliable parties to investigate,

and that baby is indeed the son of Luisa and -

That's enough.

Trust me. Best not to waste any time.

No, out of the question. It's too dangerous.

But Countess -

A telegram, ma'am.

If you'll excuse me.

Good news.

Elena's father says Guido will ask for her hand soon.

The count is getting engaged?

I believe my plan worked.

It won't be a love match,

but they've known each other for years, and our families are friends.

It will be a successful marriage.

But there's the other woman.

I agree now: There's no time to lose.

Meaning?

Go ahead.

But you'll take the blame if anything happens.

I know nothing and want to keep it that way.

Trust me.

Stay down!

Filthy mongrel!

Back!

Get back!

Antonio, hurry!

- Is anyone inside? - Marta!

Are you in there?

My house is burning!

The baby!

Save the child! Hurry!

Save the baby!

The baby's inside!

Marta!

Marta, where's the baby?

Sister Addolorata,

there's someone here to see you.

- Who is it? - I don't know.

He asked to speak to you. - Thank you, Sister.

My name isn't Luisa anymore.

I only just found out.

Poldo and Don Demetrio told me everything.

I couldn't believe it. I didn't want to.

But seeing you now, I'm beside myself with joy,

just as I was beside myself with sorrow

when I thought you had died.

My name is Sister Addolorata now.

No, nothing's changed between us.

You're still Luisa, the woman I loved and still love.

The woman you seek in me really did die.

You mean you no longer love me?

Just as I've sought peace within myself,

you must do the same

and forget me forever.

My life is consecrated to the Lord.

God did not want us to marry.

We must yield to his will.

What about the child we had together?

No, don't speak of him, I beg of you.

He alone gave me the strength to go on.

Now he's gone...

and the woman you loved died with him.

How can that be?

Don't say any more.

Respect my sorrow.

That's all I ask.

I will pray and ask God to help you.

It's vespers. I must go.

You may go.

I understand you've refused

to be transferred to our convent in Carrara.

Mother, I implore you:

That place holds terribly sad memories for me.

In consecrating ourselves to the Lord,

did we not make a formal promise

to bury our past forever?

Forgive me, Mother.

I'll leave for Carrara this very day,

just as you ordered.

Aren't you going to get your mail?

No one ever writes to me.

Why? Don't you have a father and mother?

- Did they die? - I don't know.

Not even brothers and sisters?

- What did you say? - Nothing.

You said something about me.

I want to know what it was.

It wasn't about you. Let me go.

I want to know what you told him.

I said someone with no father or mother or siblings is -

- What? - Nothing. Let me go.

He said you're a bastard.

Stop that!

Let me through!

Stop it now! You're going to the principal!

I cannot tolerate my students

engaging in brawls worthy of some cheap tavern!

And I'm surprised that you, one of our best students,

would act this way toward your fellow students.

May I ask the reason?

You don't wish to say?

Too ashamed to tell me? Go on, speak.

Sir, is it true that I'm a bastard?

- Who told you that? - He did.

Pay no attention. He must have been joking.

No, sir.

They've told me the same thing before.

Tell me: Am I a bastard?

Where do you get these ideas?

Why ask me these questions?

All my classmates have a father and mother, but I -

You're an orphan.

You just never met your parents.

Then who pays my expenses here?

What do you care, as long as they're paid on time?

In fact, the payment just arrived.

Who's it from?

Someone you don't know.

Now run along.

I won't punish you this time,

but certain things must not happen again, understand?

" I hereby enclose

third-quarter tuition and board for Bruno Silori.

Yours truly, Vittorio Anselmo."

- What are you doing? - I was just -

Stealing money, eh?

Stop lying. Money's gone missing before too.

Now we know who took it.

It's not true!

I didn't take anything! It wasn't me!

"A nselmo Vannini, Via del Monte 8, Carrara. "

- Are you sick, Grandma? - Yes, sweetheart.

Titti was sick too.

Her arm was broken, but Antonio fixed it with glue.

Why don't you try that?

It's no use. Nothing can make me better.

- Anselmo's here, ma'am. - What is it?

Anselmo's here. I'll tell him to come back.

No, I want to see him. Show him in.

You can't see him now.

The doctor said you mustn't tire yourself.

I said show him in.

Go on, all of you.

I wish to speak to him alone.

You too, miss. I don't need you.

Bye, Grandma.

My regards.

Well? What do you want?

Why wouldn't you sign these papers?

Because the prices you've set are outrageous.

Double the asking price.

No, these are current prices, and you must pay them.

This is a swindle, and you know it.

What would my son think?

I could never explain it.

There are many things the countess couldn't explain

and that the count is better unaware of.

You scoundrel.

You exact a high price for your silence.

Only what's fair.

Here. Sign.

She mustn't be dealing with business now.

I tried to stop her, but you know how she is.

How is the boy doing? Did you pay his tuition?

Yes, here's the receipt.

Burn it like all the others. There mustn't be any trace.

Don't worry. I keep separate books.

Good evening, ma'am.

What are you doing here?

My mother can't be handling business now.

The countess herself -

I sent for him.

Go no now, Anselmo.

Mother, you heard what the doctor said.

As long as I'm alive,

I want to take care of the business.

It won't be for much longer anyway.

Then you can do as you wish.

- Excuse me. Could you - - I know, I know.

Hurry and jump in back.

- Sit down. - Thanks.

- Where are you headed? - Carrara.

- On foot? - Why?

You promised you'd sing the whole way.

Come on. Lost your voice?

Mama, I'm so happy

Because I'm on my way back to you

With this song I tell you

That this is the most wonderful day for me

Mama, I'm so happy

Why live far away from you?

My song takes wing for you alone

I'll be with you

You'll never be alone again

How I love you

Perhaps these words of love

That my heart sends to you in a sigh

Are no longer in fashion

You are my most beautiful song

You are life

And never, as long as you live

Will I leave you again

- Would you like some? - Thank you.

- Where are you going? - Carrara.

- What's your name? - Bruno.

Is your family from around here?

No, I have no family.

Not even your mother?

May God protect you.

Good-bye.

- More, Vivaldi? - No, I've had too much already.

Just a drop.

Listen, are you sure the countess didn't catch on?

What if she did? She'll do as I say.

What if her son steps in?

Her son doesn't matter.

But we've got to hurry. The old lady's sick.

If she croaks without signing, we're in trouble.

I'm ready anytime. I've already called in the bills.

They either pay or they sell the quarry -

at the price we set, of course.

Of course.

We're agreed on my cut, right?

Don't worry.

Don't you trust me?

I trust nobody -

just a signature on paper.

Fine. You'll have your signature on paper.

See you later tonight. - No, I'll let you know.

- Mr. Vannini? - That's me. What is it?

I'm Bruno.

I ran away from boarding school.

Bruno?

Come inside.

Why did you run away?

- I wanted to talk to you. - Me? About what?

I want to know who my parents are and where they are.

Why ask me?

Because you pay my expenses at school.

- Who said so? - I saw your letter with the money.

I send the money because I have to,

but I don't know who your parents are.

You know. You just won't tell me.

I know nothing, I tell you!

Then why do you pay for my schooling?

Why?

You want the truth?

I found you near my house one day,

wrapped in swaddling clothes.

I brought you in, had you raised,

and sent you to boarding school when you got older.

Whoever abandoned you left a lot of money

and a note saying to use it to raise you.

You wanted the truth. Now you know.

You'll sleep here tonight and take the train back to school tomorrow.

- I'm never going back to school. - Why?

I'm just not.

- You will if I say so. - Why should I obey you?

Listen, kid, I'm not used to back talk.

You go or the police take you. - I'll run away again.

Don't make me lose my temper!

I hope you're not looking to move in here.

- No, I'm leaving. - For where?

I don't know.

Thank you for what you've done.

You needn't worry about me. I don't need anything.

Good night.

Listen, just what are you planning to do?

I'll look for work.

I don't want to depend on anyone.

Fine.

You won't go back to school? Your loss.

I'll see what else I can come up with.

For now, take the cot in the other room. I have to go out.

The countess took a sudden turn for the worse.

I don't think there's any hope now.

They wired the count, but who knows if he'll arrive in time?

But I must speak with her! It's urgent!

Impossible! Don Demetrio is with her now.

I'm listening.

Father, I must get

a terrible burden off my conscience.

I fear what I'm about to tell you.

Don't be afraid.

You're speaking to a minister of the Lord.

The confidentiality of confession is inviolable.

No human power can force a priest to break it.

You can speak with all confidence.

Father, I committed sins of pride.

I stopped at nothing to get what I wanted.

I was ruthless.

Don't look at me,

or I won't find the courage to go on.

I must tell you everything.

Father...

do you remember Luisa,

poor Bernardo's daughter?

I caused her terrible harm.

But not out of hatred.

I thought I was acting in my son's best interests.

Luisa is now devoted to the Lord.

She has forgiven everyone

and will pray for your soul.

No, she doesn't know what happened.

If she knew, she'd curse my name!

What are you saying?

The child she wept for

and gave up for dead is alive.

I took him from her.

I considered that child

an obstacle to my son's happiness,

and I had Anselmo steal him away.

Then the house burned down,

and everyone believed the child had died, including Luisa.

Where is the child now?

In a boarding school,

enrolled under a different name.

Anselmo took care of everything.

To make amends as best I can

for all the harm I've done,

I've left part of my fortune to that poor boy.

You'll find it all in my will

in that desk.

Have faith in the Lord's infinite mercy.

Mommy.

You're hurting me.

Come, sweetheart.

Finally! How is the countess?

- Very poorly. - Could she receive me?

No. She can't, and she mustn't.

For her welfare and yours,

let her prepare for the Lord's judgment.

Don't insist. Go now.

- Go get some rest. I'll stay. - It's all right.

Go on. I'll send for you if need arises.

Go on.

TO BE OPENED AFTER MY DEATH

Thief!

Thief!

Help!

Sir, we found these keys on the floor near the bed.

Ah, yes. Thank you.

She always kept them under her pillow.

The keys to her desk.

It would be best to open that desk right away.

Why?

There could be some important personal matter inside.

You're right.

Will you come with me, Father? - Yes, my son.

- Nothing. - How can that be?

Nothing at all.

Unimportant papers, personal mementos.

Isn't there a will?

And there's no reason she would leave one.

I'm the only heir.

I don't understand.

Why? What's unusual about that?

Nothing. I just thought -

What did you think?

Did my mother express some special wish to you?

But are you sure no one opened that desk before you?

Of course.

You seem surprised I didn't find anything.

Why?

You were the last to speak to my mother.

Yes, I heard her confession.

Did she express some special wish?

As I said: I heard her confession.

Guido, workers are here to offer their condolences.

I'm too tired.

Take care of it, will you? Thank them for me.

All right.

Don Demetrio, based on what you know,

is there something I must do?

Yes. Pray for her.

That's all I can tell you, my son.

You sent for me, ma'am?

I must speak to you.

Anselmo, I know all about it. - About what?

The countess confided in me before her death

and revealed the secret about that boy.

What boy?

No use pretending. I know the whole story.

I know he's alive and shut up in some boarding school.

But don't worry.

I mean to keep it a secret, and you must help.

No one will ever find out.

Good.

You'll come to me for whatever you need.

I will personally see to his expenses at school.

- He's not at school anymore. - Where is he?

- At my house. - Your house?

- He ran away from school. - Why?

He wanted to find out who his parents were.

Did you tell him?

You did the right thing.

Listen carefully:

No one is ever to find out, for any reason.

Don't worry. No one will find out.

Good. You may go now.

If I may, the countess always provided

a larger sum each month than his expenses at school.

I see. You'll receive the same amount.

I don't believe it will be sufficient.

It must be increased.

Very well. We'll work something out.

Now go.

Get to work, you loafers!

You sit down the moment no one's looking!

We were resting a moment. We were exhausted.

So you're the bad example here! Do as you're told!

Get your wheelbarrow and get moving,

or I'll give you more of the same!

And that goes for the rest of you!

The count was supposed to change things.

I'm sure he knows Anselmo's overworking us!

They're probably splitting the profits!

What's all this talk? What proof have you got?

You're always on the bosses' side!

I'm not on anyone's side!

Then why always stand up for the count?

Because I know the problems here aren't his fault.

Then why doesn't he do something? Isn't this all his?

He is doing something!

Shut up, all of you!

- What did they want? - I don't know.

I'm staying up here a while.

Go on home and send the car back.

- I want to come with you. - No, go with Mommy.

Okay?

Daddy'll be home soon.

Where'd you find that?

Let me sell it for you. I know a guy -

You're not gonna give it back! - Not a chance.

- Hello, sir. - These men don't even greet me.

As you might imagine, they're not happy.

Morale is very low.

Someone's stirring them up.

They planned to walk out this morning.

I just barely convinced them to stay.

This has to stop. Where's Anselmo?

- Up in the storeroom, I think. - All right.

Don't worry, Vivaldi. Our plan will still work.

We had a setback,

but her son will have to accept your conditions.

- Go on. - I was just finishing.

Have a seat.

No. You're being dismissed at the end of the month.

Me?

Yes, you.

My mother wouldn't allow me to do this before.

I've never understood why she had such trust in you.

- You're firing me just like that? - That's right.

No point waiting. You'll be paid your due.

Think you can toss me out after 20 years?

Yes. Poldo will be replacing you. Turn all matters over to him.

I'm not turning anything over to anyone!

I advise against taking that attitude.

I have enough on you to send you to jail.

If you're still here in two weeks, I'm turning you in!

Why? What did I do?

You know as well as I.

You've been profiting off the men's wages,

saddling them with baseless fines and deductions.

That's why morale is so low.

It's not true, and I can prove it!

You can't prove anything.

And even worse,

you conspired with other crooks

to drive the quarry to ruin and blackmail my mother.

You made this up to get rid of me.

No use shouting. You know a certain Mr. Vivaldi?

What about him?

Next time choose smarter accomplices.

Convinced now that you should leave quietly?

All right. I'll go.

You're very clever. No doubt about it.

I just hope you don't come to regret it.

Threats now too? Let's hear 'em.

No threats.

But there may be someone more clever than you.

- What are you getting at? - Nothing.

So I have two more weeks? - Not long enough?

Maybe even longer than I need.

My regards.

- What are you doing here? - Looking for the young lady.

- What young lady? - The boss's daughter.

- What do you want with her? - I found this in the road.

It's hers.

Look, he found your chain and brought it back.

Thank you.

Come and play.

But miss!

You be quiet.

Don't mind him. Come with me.

Come and play.

Look. She closes her eyes and says " Mommy" and " Daddy,"

and her dress is real silk.

Don't you like dolls? - No.

Then I'll show you some toys you'll like.

Help me.

That's the brown bear.

Then there's the barking dog.

And this is the clown.

Hello, Elena.

- What's wrong? - I can't take it anymore.

I break my back to keep the quarry going,

but instead of helping,

the workers cause more problems every day!

- What's happened? - I'm fed up with that damned quarry.

I'd like to close it down and fire those bums.

You can't trust any of them.

You heard everything, didn't you?

Now you're gonna tell the boss, right?

Good.

Go watch by the pond. Make sure no one gets by.

What were you doing, Bruno?

I went to see a nest over there.

I want to see it too. Where is it?

In the tree. But you can't climb up there.

Who says? I'm a big girl too.

Anna, don't go too far away.

I'm right here, Mommy.

He says he saw a nest in that tree.

Really? How wonderful!

You came by the villa yesterday, didn't you?

Your father works at the quarry? - No, I do.

- You do? How old are you? - Twelve.

- How long have you worked there? - Not long.

I was in boarding school before.

- Why aren't you there anymore? - I ran away.

Is your name... Bruno?

- Where are you? - Up here, Mommy.

Be careful! Get down right now!

All right, Mommy.

Help!

Help!

- Is she all right? - It was just a bit of a scare.

- Where are they? - In my house. Come with me, sir.

Poldo, gather all the workers here.

I want to talk to them.

Anselmo, the boss and his wife are in the guard's house.

Good. They'll have front-row seats.

- They could be hurt! - Too bad.

Watch your step, Anselmo! Wait until they leave.

I'm not waiting for anyone.

Stop worrying about others. Worry about your own hide.

Now clear out! I'm about to light it.

I said clear out!

- Were you scared? - No, but Mommy was.

I found these too.

Who saved her?

- Bruno, a boy from the quarry. - Where is he?

Outside.

Bring him in. He needs to dry off too.

- Right away, sir. - Does your tummy hurt?

- What? - Come here.

The boss wants to see you.

Well done. What's your name?

Well done, Bruno. You did a wonderful thing.

Come dry off.

No, I'm not wet anymore.

Don't worry about your clothes.

You'll have new clothes, shoes, shirts - anything you want.

I don't want anything, thank you.

- Where are you going? - What are you doing?

I don't know how to thank you. I'm very touched.

You were very brave.

You did a wonderful thing for me today.

- I didn't do anything for you. - What do you mean?

You don't know what a daughter's life means to a father.

Take this for now,

and I'll see what else I can do for you.

- I don't want anything from you. - Why?

You're only generous 'cause it was your daughter.

You don't care about your workers' children.

What's this?

Are you really closing the quarry and firing us all?

Who said that?

- I know. - What else?

That if anyone's starving here, it's his own fault,

and you don't care.

Who put this nonsense in your head?

This is what I get for all I've done.

I should just let you all go to the devil!

I know who's behind all this.

Good thing I already fired that dirty rat!

And you're an impudent boy, even if it's not your fault.

Now take this and let's drop the whole thing.

How dare you!

Pick it up.

I said pick it up! - Let me go!

Don't touch me or I'll smash your face in!

Bruno! Have you gone crazy?

Guido, stop!

I can't keep it in any longer.

He's your son!

Elena, what are you saying?

That's right. Your son.

They told you he died, but it wasn't true.

They're blowing up the quarry!

Where are you going? Get back!

Let me go!

- Where'd he go? - I don't know.

- You do! - It's none of my business.

You swine! We'll settle this later.

Help me.

Bruno, it's me, your father.

Speak to me!

Give me a hand.

Gently. Gently!

This is my son.

- Is there any hope? - I'm afraid not.

Only a miracle could save him now.

Forgive me.

Guido, you must forgive her,

and me too, because I also knew.

But I couldn't say anything.

The confidentiality of confession...

Look at me.

I'm your father. - My father?

Really?

And I'll never leave you again.

I love you so much.

I'll give you all the love I didn't give you all these years.

And my mother?

Where's my mother?

Your mother's up in heaven,

watching over you with all her love.

Will she help me get better?

Of course she'll help you get better.

I don't want to die!

Calm down.

Don't say such things.

I'll be like a mother to you.

Hurry up and get better,

and we'll play together all the time.

- Come, Anna. - Wait, Mommy.

Here.

I brought her.

Is she in time?

- Luisa? - I sent word to her.

Why?

It's needlessly cruel.

No, you can't deny a mother the right

to hold her child in her arms for the last time.

My son.

The angel in white.

I saw her in a dream.

I was on top of a mountain.

I was about to fall,

but I saw a great light,

and an angel in white came down to me.

She took me up in her arms

and carried me back up to the top.

And the moon shone

in a sky full of stars.

Are you my angel in white?

Yes, I'm your angel in white.

Will you take me to my mother?

Yes, I'll take you to your mother.

I'm happy now.

My child...

Mother, don't leave me!

Where are you?

Mother, I can't see you anymore.

Where are you?

My son!

Forgive me. I'm not being irreverent.

They're for an angel on his way to you.

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