Original subtitles

MR. TRAVET'S TROUBLES

- Good morning, papa. - Hi.

- Marianin! - Leave it, I'll do it.

- Thanks. - Marianin!

- I'll clean them. - No matter.

- Marianin, you do this deliberately? - Go see what mama wants.

And then see if you can find my office papers.

- Have you seen them? - No.

It's in a stack so high, a project I worked on till one.

- Ignazio!

- Ignazio, come here at once! - Give me patience!

- Marianin, put the irons in the fire. - Yes, right away.

- I'm heating the milk for papa. - Later, first put the irons.

The action takes place in Turin circa 1860.

Marianin, bring me the paper! Finally, you move!

Why didn't answer me?

- Keep the baby quiet! - You woke him.

Take him in your arms and rock him.

Rosa, it's almost 8. I must be in the office in a half hour.

The milk is still cold, and my shoes aren't clean.

Marianin, are you coming, yes or no?

- Finally! Are you deaf? - Where is it?

- Your papers? - My shoes. - In the kitchen.

The kitchen?

Very nice!

Here I am about to get pneumonia, while you flirt out the window.

Careful, you might go blind.

I wasn't looking at anybody, mama.

A lot of snow has fallen.

I'll take that nonsense out of your head!

Just look at that gossip!

Brigida chatters down there instead of bringing me my bread.

Dammit!

Tell me if I'm wrong, but I bet you're crafty.

Oh, I do alright.

- Help me fix this. - OK.

- Do a good job and you'll get something nice. - OK.

- Let's go inside. - Yes, inside is better.

You there, close that door.

-Giachetta. - What is it?

How much bread for Count Pollone?

- The usual. - But... - OK, OK.

- He's lovesick like a cat. - I know.

- So? - What should I say?

- Have you tried Travet yet? - Yes.

- And you mentioned my Paolin? - Sure.

Well, sort of...

...I told him now is the time for Marianin to marry...

...to find a good young man, perhaps...

...a merchant's son. - You said that?

He snapped: "A merchant's son! I'll send her to a convent first".

- He said that? - You know his ideas.

He's a clerk, his father was one and he wants his son-in-law...

- I get it. - And then Madame is so proud...

...with her delusions of grandeur, "To mix with riffraff!"...

- Riffraff! Riffraff!

- Paolin! - Yes.

- What are you doing?

- Bring it back. - But why? - Go!

And what will I tell Travet?

Careful not to burn me.

Ignazio!

I need some money.

- But I gave you 10 lire! - What can I do with only that?

I need new shoes and a hat.

Be patient. You know our debts.

We only got 30 lire for the month. When I get my bonus...

That bonus! I've been hearing about it for a year.

Meanwhile, I must go about dressed like a beggar.

- That it? - No, those were there already.

What are you looking for?

The damn papers. Carluccio, stop!

He's making a mess. I'm done with him.

- Brigida, is that you? - Yes, Sir. - It's about time.

- Give me the bread. - I don't have any. - What?

- You've been gossiping. - No, the barber made me late.

Why did you go there? To shave?

- No, madame sent me. - For pomade.

And braids, curls and Pompadour bangs.

- Later with that. - Oh yes, I forgot...

...the barber said that you owe him 30 lire that must be paid immediately.

Whatever. Hurry and make the coffee.

- Yes, madame. - One moment.

- Have you seen my papers? - Yes. - Thank God!

- They were on the dresser. - Not anymore.

I didn't touch them. It was probably Carluccio.

- Carluccio? - Why should it be him?

- Did you touch them? - Not me.

- Did you see them? - No! - He said no, don't torment him.

You should go to the kitchen and do your work.

- I'm going. - I'm late!

- Is this it? - What?

- This? - Let's see.

- I worked so hard! Come here... - It's not the end of the world.

I worked till one at night to finish it.

I was to turn it at 8.

There went the bonus!

Fine, let's not turn this into a tragedy. Don't cry.

If you're good, I'll buy sweets.

Sweets? Nice way to raise him!

I don't need any lessons from you!

My son is growing up very well, thanks to me.

My Margherita, bless her soul, wouldn't have raised him so.

Here we go again with the blessed soul of your poor Margherita!

Imagine if she still were here.

How she'd have to work for all the help she'd get from this good for nothing.

I may be a good for nothing...

...but I ask you to respect my mother's memory.

- Hear how she speaks to me! - But I...

It's always your fault we fight.

- She has nothing to with it at all. - You always protect her.

What's right is right.

Go away! Because of you there's never peace here.

It's not right.

It's not right....

Come now, don't cry.

Poor girl! Have patience.

- And the bread? - There isn't any.

What? Why didn't you bring it?

I would, but Giachetta gave me none.

- Not any? - No, really.

He wants Mr. Travet to come to him.

- Me? Why? - To speak to you.

- I don't have... - There's the bill too.

- True. - He said that if he wants to keep eating his bread...

...the clerk needs to come with some money in his hand.

- He said that! - Yes. - We'll see.

- Papa don't... - Let it be.

We'll see.

To his excellency, the minister: He who writes this solicits

to be accepted as a clerk. With great desire to begin,

he awaits at your disposal. Paolino Amprimo.

- Morning, Mister Travet. - Morning.

The bill please.

- I need to total it. - Please.

- Look who's here! - Giachetta.

One moment.

You can pay the bill when it's sent out.

No. You demanded to be paid and I am here to pay it.

Forget it, I want to propose...

Keep your bread, I'm fine without it.

Fine! I don't need you either.

72, 677.

- And I'll never set foot here again. - It won't hurt my feelings.

- 98 lire, 60 cents. - What? - 98.60.

Is that right? 98.60 worth of bread since November?

November? Read all of it.

It can't be...

It starts from March of last year.

- This has to be a mistake. - You think we're lying?

No, that didn't even cross my mind.

I didn't know it was so much. You must believe me.

I do.

See to those people.

It's one thing to buy bread on credit.

...but ribbons, caps, laces: that's something else.

Money given for expenses here instead goes elsewhere...

I'm truly sorry. I'm short 20 lire.

When I get my pay, I'll pay it off.

Keep your money.

Not a chance.

- Listen... - I'll leave it. Bye.

Bye! Get a load of the man!

- What have you done? - Leave me alone.

I'll tell him off! That phony.

- Where are you going, Giachetta?

- Waiting for the tram? - Obviously.

I'll bet I won't get to work on time.

I'm waiting for it too.

Pardon me. "I had my heart in my mouth".

- We've known each other since we were kids. - True, but my dignity...

Phooey! After 32 years, look where you are with your dignity.

What's do you mean? I'm expecting a promotion.

If it weren't for the decree that temporarily suspended them...

But times now so hard.

The tram alone costs 2 coins a day.

But if your wife dressed for less...

- She needs to maintain her rank. - Shall I be honest?

You made a stupid mistake in remarrying.

Those matters don't concern you.

So with that great experience...

...you still wish to marry your girl to a clerk? - Yes.

- Can you be so dumb? - Let's drop this.

Lord! Under your nose there's a golden match, my partner...

...Paolin, my old manager's son.

He's like a son to me. For 3 months he's been lovesick like a donkey.

Bless you!

- Now is not the time to discuss this. - Is that so?

You don't think a baker's son...

...is worthy of a clerk's daughter? - I don't say that...

...but understand that a family must do what it thinks is best.

So what are you waiting for, a lord?

- Paolin has a good fortune. - That doesn't matter.

- He's a good boy. - No doubt, but I can't approve.

You'll give her to some petty clerk, who'll have a family...

...who'll wind up like you. - You done making my blood boil?

It's so cold, the heat will do you good.

Leave me in peace.

If you let that prize go, you're insane.

- Stubborn mule! - Pain in the ass! - Who? Me?

Arrogant and ignorant! I'll decide what's right for my girl.

Stop!

Excuse me! Pardon me!

Stop! Stop!

I'm glad you missed it!

He dares refuse me: Giachetta!

- Woe is me! He refused! - Don't carry on so!

If only clerks could make their own bread,

But they're only good at eating it.

What's so funny? Don't laugh!

But if he'll only give her to a clerk...

...couldn't one try and become a clerk?

What did you say? Don't you dare!

- They wouldn't want a baker... - Oh, no?

Riffraff!

- Good day, Mr. till. - Hi, Giuan.

- Would you like a candy? - Thanks.

- The register is still open? Good! Hi, Rusca. - Hi.

- Has the Manager arrived? - Since a half hour.

He enjoys being stuck in an office.

He does it on purpose to see if we're late.

- Hi, till. - Hi, Moton. - Hi, Rusca. - Hi, Moton.

Anything new in the papers?

Nothing. The Royal show isn't worth a fig.

- Not all are bad. - Why don't you go?

Do you have a cigar?

Tonight we're doing Tarot.

I'm not going to the show.

- I'm going to see a ballerina I patronize. - Yeah?

- Yes, much applauded. - I bet she doesn't cost a lot!

Knock it off before we scandalize Mr. Travet.

He's not here yet. - What?

He's late? Incredible.

The Manager!

Good morning, Sir Knight.

Good morning, Sir Knight.

- Where's Mr. Travet? - He's not here yet.

Not here yet?

This is a very grave fault, I would even say the gravest.

Already the permitted maximum of 10 minutes has passed.

Mr. Moton, inform the usher to remove the sign-in register.

Who is on time, is on time and who is late, is late.

This is for you and these two are for you Mr. Rusca.

The rest I will give to Travet...

...when he decides to arrive.

Do them well, quickly. You may go.

- Excuse me, Sir Knight? - Yes?

We have not yet expressed our congratulations...

...on the Knight's Cross that was awarded to you.

Oh, thank you. How kind.

It was an undeserved tribute for my humble services.

Undeserved? Why do you say that, Sir Knight?

- You should have received it earlier. - I agree.

But I'm not one who thrusts himself forward, demanding honors.

I never even imagined it. It was such a surprise...

...like a bolt from the sky. - But we imagined it - Yes!

We'd say: "Why don't they give him the Cross?"

And I wanted to start a petition to nominate you.

- We all wanted to. - I would've been the first to sign.

Gentlemen, very kind.

- Good day. - Good day.

Where's the register?

The Manager ordered it away.

- He said that you're to see him right away. - Woe is me!

That umbrella is soaking everything!

There's a fire in your bellies which reminds me of myself.

Perhaps I gave you too much work. Give me those.

And you. And you too.

We'll assign them to Mr. Travet.

If today you need to leave a little bit earlier ...

...I will "turn a blind eye".

- Mr. Travet, at last. Please, come here. - Yes, Sir.

"Yes, Sir"! How rude!

I invite you to realize that it's now 8:17.

- 17 minutes late. - Yes, Sir. But... - Quiet!

Are you aware that for some time now, you've been slack in your duties?

- I think... - Nothing, you must think nothing.

Though you aspire to a promotion...

...though your work is praised by others...

...you show nothing but incompetence. - Allow me... - Quiet!

- But I... - Enough!

I will mark you as absent with no justification whatsoever.

Give me patience.

Give me the papers.

- Ah, the papers. - Are you deaf? You promised them this morning.

- You finished them? - Yes, I did.

I stayed up till one to finish them.

Very good. Hand them to me.

But at home I have a son, a little devil who touches everything.

- So? - He found the papers and made ducks of them.

Ducks? What stories are you making up!

- I assure you... - Quiet!

This means that you have not done your duty.

An urgent work that I assigned you.

- But very well. I know what I need to do. - Please understand...

Enough! Go and quickly finish this light work load.

Yes, Sir. I will not fail.

One moment.

- Sir? - This too: "Pratica Molinari".

- Yes, Sir. - "Yes, Sir"!

What manners! No respect!

- Excuse me. - Go the other way.

I placed the petition. - I saw it.

Give me patience.

What's this?

- It's for the petition. - I already signed it. I gave 5 lire.

That was for the Minister's portrait.

We want to nominate the Manager for the Knight's Cross.

- These are obligations... - I know.

- How much is it? - 5 lire.

5 lire! And where will I find it? I'm sorry, but I can't do it.

Not even 5 lire? You're kidding. Well, if you really don't want to...

- It's not because I won't, but because I can't. - OK. Let's drop it.

Give me patience.

Don't leave the baby alone like last time.

- No, mama. - Let's go, mama. - Yes, we're going.

- Don't let the fire go out. - Yes, mama.

Hurry, come see.

- There he is. - No...

No? Are you mad that he's there?

- No, but... - Come.

- Why not show yourself a little? - And if he sees me?

Good! That's why you do it.

Evening, madame. Careful.

When does the new lodger arrive?

He arrived last night. He's moving in his things.

- Have you seen him? - He's very refined.

- A commander, a little on the fat side. - Be good.

I don't remember his name, but it's written on his luggage.

- See.

Lawyer Commander Francesco Battilocchio.

I had them clean everywhere and repaint the kitchen.

- I thought he'd want to use gaslight. - No?

- But he wouldn't allow it. - It is dangerous.

Look! He even brought in a bathtub.

- Bachelor stuff. - Come see.

He can't possibly live among all this chaos.

No! Here everything is ready. See what things!

- This is the salon.

Oh, how pretty!

- Silk curtains! - No, they're Damascus. Come.

All the latest fashion, all is modern, perfect. Look.

- It's nice. - Especially when it is so cold...

...there's no need to even leave the room. - Don't touch!

Try sitting. It's like a chair.

- I want to sit too! - What did I tell you?

Oh, there he is.

Oh, excuse me...

- Feel free. - Madame Travet. She lives on the 4th floor.

- Pardon me, I just came in for a moment. - By all means.

Pleased to meet you.

- Madame, allow me to introduce myself: Battilocchio.

I'm ashamed with the apartment like this.

- But it's magnificent. - You flatter me.

It has taste... it's practical, comfortable, modern...

- I always strive to be modern. - A porter!

Thanks. Put it there.

I'm all for progress. "Per aspera ad astra"

- I find all new things attractive. - I couldn't agree more.

I love new things too.

- Would you like to see the rest. - I wouldn't want to put you out.

No, it would be a pleasure.

Let it go!

It's understandable that he's bored. Please, sit.

Please, drop this in the mailbox.

There's only a few rooms. "Parva domus sed apta mihi"

A nice refuge for just one man.

This is the bathroom.

- There's still much to be done. - How beautiful! Large, bright.

- All this for here? - Yes.

- Don't touch.

- It's OK. Over there is the salon. Please.

- A beautiful statue! - A Capodimonte. Pretty? - Yes.

- Please sit. - Thank you.

Get the gloves and don't make that face.

Take heart. What harm is in it?

Pass in front as if you had some errands.

Buy 2 chestnuts, go into the drugstore...

- And if he speaks? - Let's hope. Go now.

- A drop of Alchermes? - Thank you. I fear, I take too much advantage.

- Beauty can never take too much advantage. - How gracious!

-How long are you in Turin? - Not sure, maybe a year, maybe 10...

Maybe forever. It's not up to me.

I'm just a small wheel in a complicated gear.

First I was at Cagliari, then Genoa and now Turin.

- I'm sure you'll find it very nice. - I hope so...

...especially now that I had the good luck to find...

...such a pleasant neighbor here.

Your health!

Roasted chestnuts for sale!

- Good day, Miss. - Good day, Mr. Paolin.

Talk to her! Go on!

It's a fine day.

Yes, it is a fine day.

Any chestnuts, young lady?

- I'll take 2 soldis worth. - Coming up.

- Here you go. - Hand them to me.

- Thank you. - You're welcome.

May I have the pleasure to call on you?

As you wish. My husband will be pleased to meet you.

I'd be very honored.

I'll be able to offer you a cup of coffee, but you must excuse us,

...we don't have an apartment as modern and elegant as yours.

You flatter me!

Then if you don't mind, you'll soon hear me at your door.

- We shall expect you. - I won't miss it. Excuse me.

Would you be so kind as to tell me your name?

And if I am not being too indiscreet, perhaps you can give me a name...

...more intimate, more personal. - Mine? Rosa.

Rosa... I should've known. The name of a flower.

- I believe in the predestination of names. - Thank you, Sir.

What is it? Have you lost something?

- Carluccio! - Ah, the boy.

- Where could he be hiding? - Don't worry, I'll look.

- Here he is. - Lord!

Marianin, I have a request. I've been thinking about this for a while.

Could you tell me what you think...

- Paolin, I can't. - I'm so sorry.

- It's been snowing a lot. - Yes, it's been snowing a lot.

- Yesterday, it snowed even more. - Yes, even more.

- Let's hope that tomorrow that it snows a little less. - Let's hope.

- Hurry! Move!

- I have to go now. - Me too.

- Good day, Marianin. - Good day, Paolin.

Heaven help us!

- Sir Knight. - What is it?

There's a young man.

- Camillo Barbarotti? Who's that?

- May I? - Stop!

- I'm Camillo, Lil' Camillo. - Lil' Camillo?

Don't you remember? The son of the late Saverio...

...nephew of the valiant general Bo.

My uncle on my mother's side because he married the late Veronica.

I don't know any Veronica or any general. The register!

They told me so much about you.

When I was little, you used to bounce me on the knee.

My knees! This is a mistake, a "qui pro quo".

Aren't you the son of the late Girolamo...

... an official in Mondovi? - Not even in my dreams.

Sir Knight, excuse me. I am inconsolable.

- It's a case of homonymy. - That's fine. You may go.

One tiny moment.

Please look over my papers:

...birth certificate, diplomas, references, recommendations.

- What is it that you want? - Your kind support...

...as an applicant to be a clerk.

Present this to the regular authorities on stamped paper.

But in special cases, given our great friendship...

... family ties... - Show him out, Giuan.

I know I can count on you. My respects.

These liberals!

- Hi, Barbarotti. - Hi, till.

I came for my test. I spoke with the Manager.

- How did he receive you? - Like a dog. But I'm not knocked down.

I want to be a clerk and I won't stop until I am.

Look who's here. - Hi. - Move your feet.

The problem is that for every opening, there are 1000 applicants.

You need somebody with pull.

Who has influence on the Knight.

- Who would that be? - Heaven knows.

I know...

...who that might be.

- Who?

Him.

Over there: Mr. Travet.

-The one with such a modest air, ...lots of pull.

- I'll ask him right away. - Be careful.

- He'll say that he counts for nothing, but you...

Present me. No, I'll do it. What's his name?

- And his first name? - Ignazio. - Watch!

- Are you the Mr. Travet? - Yes.

- Ignazio Travet? - Yes.

What a lucky surprise! It's me Barbarotti.

- You remember? - Honestly...

Lil' Camillo. Son of the late Saverio...

...nephew of the valiant general Bo,

A old friend of your father.

I'm very honored, but ...

The new Director of the Division!

He's coming here!

The Director! Let me pass.

- Listen, Mr. Travet... - Go away!

- Yes, but for my test... - I beg you, go. It's the Director.

- Bye, Moton. - Go!

Everything in order? The Director!

Here he comes.

Don't move!

On your feet!

Up!

My respects, Sir.

- This is the office of my 4th section. - Very good.

Mr. Montoni...

A pleasure.

- Mr. Velano... - A pleasure.

- Mr. Rusca... - A pleasure.

Travet.

- Travet? - Yes, Sir. Travet.

Travet... Travet... I think...

- Travet? - Yes...

Strange. I heard that name before...

Travet with a T?

- Yes, with a T. - Yet...

- It will come to me. - This way, Sir.

Barbarotti. Camillo Barbarotti.

Nephew of the valiant general Bo.

Not now...Sir...

I was talking with my friend Travet who's taken an interest on my behalf...

- I'm not taking an interest in anybody! - Travet, later.

From here you can pass into my office. After you.

- Pleased to have made your acquaintance. - Later.

I hope to have the honor to be always a faithful subordinate.

My respects, Director.

Bye to all. See ya, Travet. Sir...

- "See ya"? I don't know...

Travet...this morning...

- Give me a little wine. - OK...

Marianin, the embroidered napkins.

- Here mama.

They're crumpled! A fine figure we'll make. Go iron them.

And you hurry up, he'll be here soon.

I'm hurrying but I don't want to choke.

Eat. Don't waste time chattering.

One moment.

- Inviting people at this hour. - Don't touch!

- There's only a few. - Brigida, the onions.

- Coming. - Can I know who is this gentleman?

I don't remember, but he's a very important person.

- He told me that he wants to meet you. - Me? - Yes.

- The onions. - Good. Take this.

- The sugar? This morning I told you that we ran out.

- What are we going to do?

Brigida can go to the store.

And who'll serve the coffee? Who'll wash the plates?

- You should go. - She's right, she can't. You go.

- But I haven't eaten yet. - Eat!... Eat!...

What's the big deal? The store is 2 steps away. Hurry!

Give me patience.

- What do you call those? - "Sighs". They're exquisite.

- Want to try some? - No, thank you.

- And these? - "Ladies' kisses".

No, I need chocolates that are more respectful without anything improper.

- That's what they call them nowadays. - I'll get the classic gianduiotti...

...and maybe a few "sighs".

At your service.

- I feel that we already met. - Yes, Sir. This morning.

- But, I can't remember where. - At the office, Sir.

- Ah, yes! The office.

Now I remember...

- Good evening. - At your service.

- One moment, please. Is this the 4th floor? - Yes, Sir.

- Maybe you can give me some help. - Of course.

I'm going to visit a family whose name escapes me.

Can you tell me who lives here?

The Marengos.

No, that's not it.

- The Nairottis. - No.

- There's...Travet. - That's it, Travet!

I think that's it: Travet.

Thank you.

- Brigida! - Yes!

- What is it?

- Your apron.

- Go get it. Keep an eye on Carluccio. - Yes.

- Draw the kitchen curtain.

Go! Wait! The bonnet!

- Not the bonnet. - Here it is.

- You must wear it! - I never had to before!

Good evening.

The Director...

But then...

Oh, heavens!

Good evening, Sir.

My respects, madame.

I took the liberty to bring some candy for the boy.

- Very kind of you! Why go to such trouble?

Please, sit down.

My husband will arrive as soon as he finishes attending to some business.

Thank God. He just came from the floor below. Give it to me.

- Where did he go? - Where do you think he went?

Up here, we've a lot of air and light.

Magnificent! A vast panorama.

When the weather is nice you can see almost all of Turin.

"The Hill of Superga"...

I see you once again...

... Oh, sweet place...

... in which joy...

... in which peace...

dear places...

... I found you.

dear places...

... I found you...

... but which I can never find again!

- Pleased to meet you. - My husband.

Very honored.

- Haven't we met before? - Yes, this morning at the office.

Ah, right!

- Pardon me, can you give me your name again? - Travet.

Yes, how stupid of me! Of course!

The husband of this lady.

Can it be that my husband has the honor of already knowing you?

He was presented to me this morning.

He's the Director of the Division.

- Oh, indeed. - Yes...

- Oh, what luck! What an honor! Please sit down. - Yes, please sit.

The Director has been kind enough to bring us candy.

Oh, chocolate! Thank you, that's so kind.

It's been so long since we had any.

- And how much they cost! - Please, it's nothing.

- How long have you been at that office? - 32 years, Sir.

- By Jove, then you're a veteran. - No, a clerk.

- A simple clerk of the 2nd class. - My husband has been so unfortunate.

He's one of their best employees...

...and yet others have been promoted before him... - Madame...

I've just arrived and have no way to judge, as you can imagine...

But sometimes there are decisions which give an impression...

- It can look... - Thank you, Sir.

I'm at a loss with the charm of having here my superior...

We're even now: I'm the inferior.

Inferior, how?

- Superior in the office, but inferior here. - I don't understand.

I live on the 1st floor and you live on the 4th.

Nice one! How clever!

Don't touch the sugar.

- The tray's dirty. - Where's the rag?

Take that one.

- What are you doing? - Nothing.

- Watch out! - What a mess!

I must go. I don't want to take advantage of your hospitality.

You want to go away already? I was hoping you'd take some coffee.

- We made it just for you. - Ignazio, see if it's ready.

At once. Excuse me, Sir.

- A chocolate? - After you. - Thank you.

- Is the coffee ready? - Yes.

But the sugar...Carluccio made a mess!

Hurry, he has to leave soon.

Who can that be? I'll see.

Who can it be at this hour?

Mr. Travet, how are you?

Don't you remember your friend Barbarotti?

- What do you want? - Some news.

I'm sorry, but I can't stay any longer.

I'm sorry, but I don't know what's happening there.

- Let me go seek. - It doesn't matter.

I'll take the coffee another time. It's a good excuse to come back...

- My respects, madame. - Ignazio!

Oh, Sir!

- Allow me? - Thank you.

Do you remember me? Camillo Barbarotti.

I had the honor of being present at the office this morning.

- Is the rest of the office here too? - I came to visit my friend.

- Your wife? Permit me. - Pleased.

Madame, my respects.

- Please excuse all this, Sir. - Goodbye, my friend.

- After you. - Goodbye.

If you allow me, I'll walk with you.

Madame. See ya, Travet.

I'm coming.

- "See ya"! - How you made me look!

To leave me alone there while you chat with a friend.

But I don't know him...

You'll receive from me a petition...

...to be an employee in your office.

- What's your qualifications? - 26 years old, lovely handwriting.

That's not much, what do you do now?

- I'm a notary's apprentice, but I want to change. - Why?

I work hard, but hardly get paid.

I should give you a position then?

- You know that I'm a good lad. - I know nothing of the sort.

Let me assure you, I am serious and good-mannered.

I'm not one of those who only think about having fun. Chasing girls...

- Good night, I've arrived.- But...

- My respects, Sir. - Good night.

Yeah, yeah...

I swear to you, I saw him there with my own eyes.

The Director in Travet's house? What was he doing?

- "Chercher la femme". - What?

- Have you met Travet's wife? - No, but I bet she's 50.

50! She's quite young. If you could see those eyes, those lips, that waist.

- You're not making this up? - My word of honor.

"Sixes".

Then according to you, Travet's wife and the Director...

You don't need much imagination to figure it out...

You should've seen the compliments, the hand kissing.

"Snake Eyes".

I swear to you, that's how it was.

I get it. They live in the same house, see each other all the time...

A smile from madame, a few words...

- Travet doesn't see it? - I think not. - I bet he pretends not to.

He looks like an idiot, but...

Who dares mess with him now that he's protected by the Director?

That's the reason he wouldn't sign the petition.

With that support he won't give a damn what the Knight thinks.

- Can it be? - It's so, Sir Knight.

The Director who seemed so strict like Cato.

What can one expect? Travet's wife is very pretty.

Why this is a disgrace, a scandal!

To avail himself of conjugal ties to advance his career.

Now that I think it over, connecting certain signs...

...I noted a certain rebellious tone...

...even revolutionary on Mr. Travet's part.

Indeed. He had the insolence to refuse to sign...

...the petition for your Cross.

He refused... By Jove, Now it is so clear it shines.

This is an act of manifest hostility directed against me, his superior.

But we'll see. I'm not intimidated so easily.

If Travet has strong ties, I too have weapons at hand.

And how I will use them!

Who? But what are you saying?

It's true. Everybody knows it.

The Director is always there. They say it's because of his wife.

Hush, he's coming.

- Good day. - Here, Mr. Travet.

- Do you need any help? - Thank you!

I'm only doing my duty! I'm always ready to help.

You can count on me, for anything you need.

Thank you, that's very kind.

You're welcome. Please, Mr. Travet.

Good day.

- Ah, Good day, Mr. Travet! - Good day!

- How's your cold? - Thank you. It's almost gone.

You need to take care of yourself in this bad weather.

Is the family alright? The children? The wife?

Everything is fine. The youngest hasn't been able to sleep much...

...but it's nothing

- Teething? - Maybe...

Honestly, if you want to give me that file...

...you who are so loaded with work... - I couldn't possibly...

- What a thing to say! - Co-workers always help each other.

- I'll have these 2 done quickly. - I'll take that one.

You're too good. I'm truly grateful.

The Manager.

- After you. - Thank you.

If you have any difficulty and need to speak with someone superior...

...you can turn to me. Ask to speak the Knight. That's me.

Come in.

It will be my duty to start you on the right road.

- Oh, Mr. Travet.

- This is the new employee of whom I spoke. - Paolin?

- Mr. Travet. - Have you met?

- Yes, Sir. - Good.

You will assign him his work and report to me on his progress.

Here are a few files for today. You may go and...

Sir?

...I need to speak to you later. I'll call you.

Yes, Sir. Let's go.

- Did you notice that? - Sir Knight.

Not once did that impudent refer to me as "Knight".

- That's right!

Not that I care about titles, I 'm above that sort of thing.

But I see the malicious intent, the will to be disrespectful...

...and this I'll not tolerate.

A young blonde man with a mustache...

I know he's here.

- Who are you? - I'm his father.

Write here your first and last name.

Mr. Travet will know him.

- Mr. Travet?- Yes.

Why didn't you say so!

Wait. You just can't go in. I must announce you.

I need only 2 seconds.

Let me pass!

Mr. Travet. Very pleased to see you.

- Me too, but... - It's you who've ruined that boy!

Refrain from such words. I haven't ruined anybody.

- Listen well. - I'm not listening to anything!

What's this racket?

Ah, it's you, Mr. Travet.

You again. This is the 2nd time that you broke the rules...

...and brought strangers here. - One moment, Sir.

I came in on my own account. Mr. Travet had nothing to do with it.

Indeed, I'm just going.

I only want to tell you that, this lad here retracts his petition...

...and will no longer be a clerk.

It was a mistake!

- March. - Giachetta. Why?

Goodbye!

Giuan, the door.

There are some who believe, because they have a certain support...

... a shameful support, to be able to turn their noses...

...and impose on their superiors...

...refusing them that respect and homage which is their right.

- I hope this is not directed at me. - Yes, Sir. Exactly at you.

- I don't know why I deserve this. - I know why.

- Excuse me, but... - Enough!

Give me patience.

Let it be known, that if one "sounds the trumpet"...

...I will "sound the bell".

The bell? I sounded a trumpet?

What's with these people today?

I need so much patience!

Each promise is an obligation, says the ancient proverb.

And I, who am a loyal soul to my word...

...asks for the privilege, that granted honors me...

...to go to the Royal with you, gentle Madame.

How polite he is! An invitation in verse.

Listen, it's not done.

At 8 sharp I will come to receive you in a coach...

...yours devotedly, Francesco Battilocchio.

How clever! How original!

Just think: a box at the Royal, like the Marchisios.

How luxurious! How elegant!

Lord! It's already 4. Where's Brigida?

- She's about to leave. - Get her!

- Brigida! - I'm coming!

Marianin, help me get dressed.

- Coming. - I must leave!

- I have a ton of things to buy. - Let me.

Oh Lord! And the money?

- Did papa not leave you any? - Me? Nothing.

My God, this is impossible. There's no money in the house!

What'll I do? I must run to the office.

- My gloves. - Right away.

- What do you need? - Listen well...

- Go to the seamstress and tell her to come here. - OK.

Go quickly!

I have to fix my dress. Tonight, we have a box at the Royal.

A box at the Royal?

And I have to go on foot, in the snow...

...so I can save 4 lire instead of going by coach.

What rags! I need to buy a new pair.

This is what comes from not keeping up one's rank.

The first chance I get...

Hurry, get the bread sticks.

Madame Travet?

Did she leave?

Shall I send him up?

One moment.

Give it to me, let me do it. You come with me.

But why are you always dressed that way, with that apron?

Come, take it off!

Careful. Don't mess it up!

- No matter, it's still ugly. - Hush, it's pretty.

- Who's that? - Who could it be?

There, like that. Now look.

Look how pretty!

Be good.

Good day.

- Good day. How can I help you? - Camillo Barbarotti.

- Would you announce me to Mr. Travet... - He isn't here.

- Not here? A shame.

- Never mind. Announce me to Madame. - She's out.

No matter, I'll wait.

Don't bother, they won't return until 8.

Damn! Would you mind if I kept you company?

I don't have time to waste. Come back when they return.

But that's not nice. Don't you ever feel sad being alone here...

...a beautiful girl like you?

What's your name? Rosina? Caterina? Francesca?

Quit it. My name is Brigida and if you don't leave right away...

- Do what? Call your boyfriend? - I don't have a boyfriend.

What? Are the men around here blind? A flower like you!

- If I had the luck to pick it... - There will be no picking here.

Off with you!

Oh Lord, it's him! Look what mess you've put me in. What'll I do?

- Who is it? Mr. Travet? - No, the daughter's beau.

- I didn't know there was a daughter? - Why, you want to "pick" her too?

No, I didn't mean that. Let him in.

- He's not coming to see her, but me. - Me? - Me.

- You? - Me.

- Well whose beau is he? - Hers. But she doesn't know it yet.

-She's here? - Yes, but I don't want him...

I can't explain it, it's complicated.

She is shy, but he's even more than she.

I thought, "I'll make him come, and she'll appear..."

"...and maybe...". - You'll unite the rabbit with the dove.

- I'll help, love stories are my passion.

- There's nobody here. - Heavens!

That's him. Mr. Paolin!

- I thought nobody was there. - Young man, wait.

- One moment! - Is Mr. Travet here?

- Who is asking for him? - His wife.

Right away madame, my respects.

- Is Travet here? - He's in the other room. Why?

- His wife is looking for him. - Madame Travet?

- Rusca. Tell her that her husband is in the archive. - What's up?

Madame Travet is here. Let's take a look.

- Oh, madame! - Good day, Sir.

I came to speak to my husband.

- Mr. Travet is in the archive, he'll be back soon. - Thank you, I'll wait.

Not here, madame. Come to my office.

- When Travet returns, send him to me. - Yes, Sir.

- Madame, after you. - Thank you.

- Did you see? She went into his office. - Yeah.

- I bet she came on purpose. - What, you think it's true?

- How naive! You don't get it? - No!

To seek him out at the office...

- Ah, it's just too much! - Too much!

I don't know how to thank you, Sir.

I'm at a loss, moved by your charming invitation...

...those lovely verses... - You flatter me, Madame.

Excuse me, a moment.

Do you remember when I met your husband in the hall?

Well, I'm only keeping my word.

- "Each promise is an obligation..." - "Says the ancient proverb".

Sit. I ask you as a friend.

How extraordinary! You can speak in verse.

Sometimes when I have nothing to do, I indulge.

- Here in the office? - Yes, Sir Knight.

The Director brought her to his office.

He's with her while Travet is in the archive.

By Jove, this exceeds all limits of human tolerance.

It was right to let me know. I must intervene.

I cannot permit under our own eyes...

...these liaisons to occur. My wife is the sister-in-law to the cousin...

...of the Secretary General. I'll ask for an audience and report the scandal.

Enough, by Diana!

What do you expect, here where I feel more restrained than usual?

- Restrained? How come? - In this office...

You are my husband's superior, an important superior, an authority.

- But, no... - But yes. So important that my husband's career...

...and our family's future depend on you.

In a strict sense, yes...

But you can count on my benevolence.

I know, Sir. I'm grateful. It's the first time that any superior...

...has understood my husband. Forgive me if I speak with an open heart...

...sometimes I see him so depressed, so disheartened...

Go on, madame, speak.

He's coming...

Mr. Travet, you have a visitor.

A visitor? Lord, I have so much work.

However much work there is...

...I'm sure the Director will find some help on your behalf.

The Director?

And who was looking for me?

Your wife.

Seeing that you weren't there, he brought her to his office.

He said for you to come as soon as you returned.

Rosa? What does she want?

Excuse me.

Did you see the face he made?

- Where are you going? - The Director.

- Come in.

- Who is it? - May I...

Very good. Your wife needs to speak with you.

- Thank you. Then I... - No, stay. You can speak more easily here.

But we couldn't take advantage...

Please, I was just leaving. I must go to the Minister.

Go ahead, Mr. Travet. Make yourself at home.

Rosa...

Until tonight, madame.

As for the rest, be sure, that I'll do all I can.

- Words escape me. - Lord, it's my duty.

At you service, Sir.

- What do you want? - Some money.

Money? What for?

The Director has invited us to the Royal this evening...

...and I have a 1000 expenses: hairdresser, seamstress, fans, gloves.

How much do you need for all this?

Did I give permission?

- Director! What an honor! - At ease. - I'm overwhelmed.

You could have sent for me and I would have ran...

Please. This is different.

I want to talk to you about the files you sent over.

- Please sit, Director. - Thank you.

Among the proposals for bonuses and promotions...

...I noticed that you have forgotten poor Travet. How come?

I have not forgotten him. I left him off on purpose.

- Why? - I'm not happy with him: unexcused tardiness, sloppiness...

And from time to time a disrespectful attitude,...

...provocative...

...as if he felt himself powerfully protected.

I don't know what you base that impression upon.

- I have visited him as a neighbor... - I am aware, Sir.

I like to keep near my employees to prevent...

...injustice.

I found out that Travet has worked here for 32 years...

...and yet has been passed over by at least 10 people. Why?

He is a gentleman, hard working, and knows his job well.

Two thirds of the files done by this section were from him.

Nevertheless, this good man works always without complaint.

Are you not convinced?

If you give it some thought, you'll see that I'm right.

It seems to me that he deserves to be eligible...

...not only for bonuses...

- Please! - Thank you.

...but also for promotion. Here.

Rosa, how can I give it to you, if I don't have it?

90 lire, Lord! Can I make them?

Even if you could, they'd be gone in a second.

- Shall we tell him that we can't go? - Are you crazy?

- To show such rudeness! - Well then?

Nothing is left but to pawn your watch.

No, not the watch, Rosa.

I told you a 1000 times, that the watch cannot be touched.

Why do you still keep it if it's always slow?

It may be slow, but it's the only the keepsake of my father.

I never wanted to be separated from it.

But we'll get it back. It's just for a few weeks.

Don't you see what situation you're putting me in?

If your father were here, he'd be the first to say so.

One moment.

- Here. Take it quickly. - Come, take heart Ignazio.

You'll see that things will get better.

Yes. We are making the right decision.

Come. Soon you will bless the hour...

...the Director set foot in our door.

- What do you mean? - Nothing. I can't say anything, but you'll see.

Bye. I'm off.

- Tonight at 8:30. - It's impossible.

Why? It's so easy!

Are you crazy?

2 bottles of Brachetto tonight at 8:30.

-So? - Situation hasn't changed.

Look... there's nothing moving.

- Off with the hands! - What's the matter?

- I told you to stop. - Next to you, how can I?

- Quit it! - Tonight at 8:30, while they're at the theater.

- Give up! - With 2 bottles of Brachetto and a nice paté...

...we'll have a chic dinner. - You're crazy!

If she goes to the theater too ... but if she stays home...

We'll send her to bed. We'll be in the kitchen.

- If she tells her mother? - What nonsense!

What's the matter, Paolin? Why is she crying?

There's nothing left to do.

What's the matter? Does the young lady not like you?

- Yes, she likes me. - Well then?

I know: star-crossed lovers. The parents say no.

- Her papa says no.

And if the father won't like me, neither will she.

- But I tried to do that which would please her father. - Good.

- But it didn't please Giachetta. - Giachetta?

A moment.

- Who's Giachetta? Your father? - No.

- Her tutor. - His business partner.

- Business? - He's like a father to him.

The bakery out in front.

Out in front? Giachetta? We're old friends!

Don't worry. This is easy to fix.

- We'll have this marriage. - You see?

I work for a notary. Leave it to me.

Leave it to me. Paolin!

- Tonight at 8:30. - No. If somebody hears?

- I won't ring, I'll knock. - I won't open!

I'll knock just the same. Bye, beautiful!

Mr. Barbarotti.

- Knock quietly. - I will.

Wait! I was just thinking. Let's go see Giachetta, I know him.

I work for a notary who's my friend...

...and you can have this marriage anytime you want.

If Giachetta agrees, I'll call him and we'll arrange it.

- Mama wants to know the time. - It's...

- What time? - I don't know.

- Is your watch broken? - No, well...

It was necessary to buy many things for tonight: fans, gloves...

...and your mama had it pawned. - Oh, your watch!

It wasn't necessary to do that. It's a hard pain for you to bear.

Papa, we can do this another way.

I have this golden cross. It was poor mama's broach...

-No. - Marianin, what are you doing?

Take it. It would be upset if you refused it.

No, keep it with your things. Poor child.

- Now, Marianin! - See what she wants and thank you.

Did you finish getting ready?

The hairdresser left here 6 minutes ago...

...and now is time to try on the dress.

Brigida, the candle! How am I supposed to shave!

- Mama, I want to go too. - Do you need any help?

I have to shave.

Your shaving! Bring it here.

- Here? - Hold it steady.

Come. Be good.

Let me hold my breath for a moment.

Courage! Allez!

- My respects, Madame Travet. - Thank you. Are we late?

- Not at all. - Good evening, Sir.

Good evening, Mr. Travet. The boy too?

- Excuse us, but he kicked up a storm. - Maybe we go too far...

Not at all. To the Royal. Quickly.

- It's already began! - It's only the end of the prelude.

- I want to see the prelude. - Be good, don't yell.

Hush, Carluccio!

Up on the hill, the Druids... are looking into the sky

- Do you want to sit? - No, thank you.

- Papa, why do they get to yell? - They're not yelling, they're singing.

- Why do they sing? - Because we're at the theater.

- Can't you keep him quiet? - If I don't answer, you know how he gets.

- Who are those with the beards? - Hush! Be good.

- Tell me who they are! - Give me patience.

- Tell me who they are! - They're...

Excuse me, Sir.

- Who are those with the beards?

- Those with beards? - They're Druids. - What? - Dru-ids.

They're Dru-ids.

He's only a child. Don't make a big deal!

Bronze priest!

Bronze priest!

- I'm here. - Hush!

Miss is still awake.

But why did you come? I told you not to.

- Well, I'm here. I don't want to go just yet. - Speak softly.

Go through there. Wait for me in the kitchen.

I'll tell her that I don't feel well and need to go to bed.

- Brigida? - What is it?

- Don't make so much noise. - Why not?

The more noise, the more they're pleased.

- Excellent. - A gianduiotto, madame?

What a magnificent audience.

- A gianduiotto? - Me too!

Yes, you too.

Very good!

Sir Knight...

- At your service, Sir Knight. - Good evening, Velano.

- Did you see who was in the 3rd box in the 2nd order? - No, who?

"The chickens are coming home to roost".

I don't know how to express my thanks for the evening...

...you offered us. - Don't mention it!

My wife is right. We owe so much to you.

- Owe? - Yes, Sir.

- I know what you are doing on my behalf.

- Me? I don't understand. - Let me at least thank you.

My wife told me that you have taken an interest in my bonus and promotion.

Do employees know how to talk of anything else?

He's right. Why speak of this now?

- I want to go home. - Wait. - I'm sleepy and my tummy hurts.

Good evening.

This way!

We're coming. Hurry!

This way!

Quiet.

- This way, take heart. - One moment.

- And hurry. - I'm hurrying.

Why this mystery? I thought she already knew.

Sir Notary, we're not breaking the law.

It's not that. I'm a notary.

Marriage is a legal contract like any other.

That's what I said. It's the girl's father who doesn't want it.

The time the contract is made. we extend an act of respect.

Let's not begin with compliments.

That man deserves no respect.

It's not a compliment. The act of respect is a formality required by law.

It's a notice to the father, inviting him to give his consent.

If he doesn't give it? - Hush!

- If he doesn't give it? - It can be done without it.

- Fine. - But the girl will have no dowry.

What kind of dowry could he afford!

- Who are they? - Don't worry. We're all friends.

But why are they here?

- The marriage contract between Paolin and Miss. - The contract?

Yes. The notary lays down the deed, we sign and then we feast.

If only she'd consent.

- That's what I said too. - Quiet!

- What? The young lady is not willing? - No!

I'd swear it!

But...

Good evening, miss. How nice for us to meet again.

See, it's Giachetta, Paolino and my friend, the notary Paglieri.

At this time? Papa and mama are not here. What do they want?

We have many things to tell you.

- Please leave. - I'm here...

...only because I was assured that you were totally willing.

- I assure you that I was against it as well. - Quiet!

Don't be afraid. I'm an honest man.

I only want to secure the marriage for you and Paolin.

The notary...Hush!

They won't let me speak...

...when I want to!

- I must go. I'm sorry. - One moment!

Hush!

I hear somebody putting the key in the lock.

Don't fear. They can't open it, because I put up the bolt.

Dammit, they're ringing the bell.

- Let's hide. - I'm not hiding. - Go!

- Giachetta, what have you done? - Open it. Go!

Put on your robe. They'll hide in the kitchen. Hurry!

- That's locked with a key. - What'll we do? Through there!

Hurry, go!

I refuse to hide. I refuse to hide.

- Hurry. - No, this is my room.

Through the window, there!

I refuse to hide.

Under the table. Get down!

The candy!

The paté!

- We've been ringing for a half hour. - I didn't think it was you.

- Why did you put up the bolt? - We were scared.

Two women alone... Nowadays, many bad things can happen...

- Sir, would you like to sit in the salon? - Thank you.

- Marianin! - Coming, Mama.

My tummy hurts.

- Bring Carluccio to bed. He doesn't feel well. - Yes.

If we want to return to the theater, the coach is waiting.

Seeing that the child is taken care of and the Director has been so nice...

- And you? - My jacket, Brigida. I had enough of the theater tonight.

Besides, I haven't had dinner yet and I would like a bite.

Seeing that the table is set...

Brigida, why is the table set?

I thought that since you haven't eaten yet...

...once you returned, you'd want something. - Great.

What's this?

- A paté? - Yes.

- How did paté get into my house? - My cousin brought me some.

- Your cousin? What cousin? - The one I used to talk about.

The one that works in a deli.

- I don't remember. You, Rosa? - Not me.

Well, why did you put it here?

I thought that you like to try some.

It smells good.

- What do you think, Sir? - Exquisite.

- I'll try some. You, Rosa? - I don't want any.

- Can I offer you some? - No, thank you.

- Brigida, a knife. - I'll get it. - With your permission, I'll have some.

Do. We can go now, if you like Madame.

-We'll arrive in time for the 3rd act.

- Have fun. Brigida, the door. - Coming.

- After you, Madame. - Thank you.

- What's under here? - Nothing, it's probably the cat.

But something is moving.

- Where? - Under there.

- Under there? - Yes.

Let's see.

- Camillo Barbarotti. At your service. - Barbarotti?

- I believe I know him. - What are you doing there?

- Just passing by. - Under the table?

- Come out of there. - One moment. There's also me.

- Paglieri, Notary. - A notary?

- I'm deeply sorry. - What are they doing in my house?

Please a little respect. I'm guiltless of this.

I am a public official in the exercise of my duties.

You'll hear from me. Good evening.

Don't get upset. It's nothing serious, I'll explain all.

- There's little to explain. It's quite clear - No, no.

Another one? One moment.

And was it you who told me what a good lad you were?

- I assure you that I did nothing... - For heaven's sake.

- We see that. And you, Brigida... - But, Madame...

- Believe me. - There's nothing to believe. Go!

- There's somebody behind the curtain. Who's there?

Be calm. Who's there?

- Enough! - Mr. Giachetta!

- Everybody out! - Marianin!

- What's this? - The entire world is here.

You too? This is a terrible scandal!

Sir, what you must think of us!

Marianin, what is this!

Papa, it's not my fault.

How convenient to start fainting now!

- In the meantime, everybody go! - Yes, but we'll return.

There's now no more obstacle...

...in giving your daughter's hand to my Paolin.

- I don't know what you mean! - Agreed, then?

- Tomorrow the contract. - Never! - And Sunday the marriage.

My respects, Madame. My regards, Sir.

Bye, Travet. Excuse me...

- What shame!

- A honorable family put in such a position!

- Don't say a word, Sir! - Not at all.

Let's see... How is it going?

Here are the salts.

Let's see how these beryl salts do.

- Look at me. It's your papa. - She's reviving.

It's nothing. She's getting back her color.

Finally, Sir.

Such a nightmare. Please forgive me.

No, by heavens. I felt for you.

I'm sorry that you had to see that.

It looks like the boy is a good lad...

...the best thing would be to let them marry.

Yes, he's a good lad. I can't say anything against him on that account.

- But he is of a certain class... - Doesn't he belong to an honest family?

Yes, honest is honest, but not very...

To tell the truth, he's a baker.

- So? - Don't you think a civil clerk would lose his dignity?

The devil! To be a civil clerk is certainly an honor...

...but that doesn't give them the right to despise others. - I know.

I often thought the same, but the problem is...

...that my wife wouldn't like it. - Your wife?

Listen, Travet, let me be frank.

I've known you a while and I see that you're a good man.

When it comes to these matters, the master has to be you.

- It should be, but... - This is a mistake.

A grave mistake.

Think it over.

And give your daughter to that good boy.

- Good night, Travet. - At your service, Sir.

Come in.

- At your service, Sir Knight. - What is it?

Great news.

I think we already know it.

The Director has been summoned by the Secretary General.

And Mr. Travet by the Chief of Staff. We know...

Congratulations, Sir Knight.

The congratulations are mutual.

- In what way? - When vice is punished virtue is rewarded...

...by giving to you and Mr. Rusca and Mr. Velano the bonuses.

Oh, I'm speechless!

Uh...Sir!

I was looking for you.

At your commands, Sir.

- If I'm not mistaken, I have you to thank. - For what? I don't understand.

For the slander for which only my lifelong conduct and integrity...

...has made impossible. And that's not all!

It only took one day for a rogue to invent lies about me...

...for everybody to believe it. - I didn't invent anything...

...it's what was said in the office. In fact, I tried to hush it up.

But then, your too well-known contact with that employee...

...the sight of his wife in the office, going with them to the theater...

It takes very little, dear Commander. The world is so bad...

And you're a perfect example of it.

Do you know who is to blame for this?

That good for nothing Travet, who has put on certain airs...

...and has had the nerve to boast about you in public. - Impossible!

I beg your pardon. You can ask Moton and Rusca, they heard him.

- Shall I have them come here? - No.

- I've heard him too. - That good man may have said something foolish ...

...but he would never had lied, nor boasted so.

How ironic. Instead of being useful to that wretch...

...I ruined him completely.

The Secretary General is transferring him to Sicily.

- To Sicily? - A father with a family.

Do you understand?

I hope you're satisfied with your fine deeds.

At your service, Sir.

At your service, Sir.

Camillo Barbarotti. Do you remember?

- Good day. - May I?

I was hoping to introduce myself with the help of Mr. Travet, but...

Why Travet?

It'll do you no good to be helped by him now.

- What do you want? - Though appearances may be against me...

... it wasn't my fault that you found me in Travet's house...

- What do you want? - I'm sorry.

- Sir. - Good day.

Sir, is it true that they're sending me to Sicily?

Me in Sicily?

Might as well throw me on the street and tell me to die like a dog.

I have had 32 years of honorable service.

In the 60 years of my life, I have never left Turin.

Away from here, I would die like a fish out of water.

And they're sending me there with the same pay.

What evil have I done to deserve such a punishment?

Don't give me a bonus or promotion, I could live with that.

- But let me die in my own country, in my own home! - Calm yourself.

Sir, I'm in your hands. Save me.

And my children? What am I going to do? You know that I can't leave here.

For heaven's sake, you have always been kind to me.

- You have given me your support. - I have done nothing.

I feel on your behalf as well as for the others.

- Yes, my wife told me... - Your wife is a fool...

...and you're bigger one. Your troubles are in a large part due to yourself.

Myself? But I swear to you, I didn't do anything.

- You spoke out of place. - Me?

- But what did I say? - You also compromised me.

It hurts me to see this happen, but I can't do anything more for you.

And if I intercede on your behalf, I'll do you more harm than good.

Good day.

1236.72 total to be shared among us.

- That's a good bonus. - I told you so!

Hi, Barbarotti!

Hurray! Come drink with us.

All 3 of us got a raise!

- We must drink! - Mr. Travet...

...is it really true what they say...

...that they're sending you to Sicily?

Unfortunately... Unfortunately...

It'll be my death, believe me.

- I'm very sorry. - Me too.

I have spent many years in this office, at this desk and now...

- How could something like this happen? - Please, don't torment him.

How did this happen? Do any of you know?

It struck me like a bolt of lightening.

But you can still fix it.

- If I only knew how. - With the Director's support.

- Moton, stop! - I already prayed to him like a saint...

...but he didn't want hear it. - Send your wife to him.

- Rusca! - You're so bad!

- You're a rascal. - Watch what you say!

Yes a rascal! That's not how you treat a gentleman.

- Mr. Rusca! Let go, this is about me.

What do you mean? Speak clearly!

Better you!

The Manager! Rusca is just your spokesman.

- You'll answer me better. - Calm, Travet. What do you want?

- You're upset, besides yourself. - Hear me!

- The issuing of the reclamation certificate 661... - Hear me!

Don't go away. Listen all of you.

Mr. Rusca has repeated more clearly...

...an insult he said a few day ago...

...and which I now only understand. You!

Travet, don't forget that I'm your superior.

Here there are no superiors. Here there are only 2 men...

...one of whom has gravely offended the honor of the other.

Speak! When you spoke of "shameful support", what did you mean?

Did you mean that in order to slave here day and night doing my duty...

...I sold my honor? - Allow me...

I want to know what you meant!

Do you think you can scare me?

- It's obvious there was an affair... - You're a liar!

I'll say it again: a liar!

- That word will cost you dearly. - Let it cost what it will...

...my honor is worth more!

Sir, never step foot in here again!

I'm going to report this!

From this moment, consider yourself fired!

Fired.

Give me patience!

Better this way.

Much better this way.

Very good. He's fired.

His family has a piece of bread and he throws it away...

...because of a joke, about which he won't say. This is insane!

- I beg you... - And to top it off, he won't give us the reason!

But I told you. I had a few words with the Manager...

...which angered me. - What words?

Don't you understand that we are poor? And you just sit there.

- What can I do? - I know what to do. Brigida!

- What do you want with Brigida? - Don't concern yourself.

- You called? - Bring me my hat and shawl. - Right away.

- Where are you going? - Where I can get some help.

- Who? - The Director.

You're not going! Take back this stuff, she's not leaving.

- Ignazio, are you crazy? - Didn't you hear?

- Take back this stuff! - I was waiting for madame...

There's nothing to wait for. I gave you an order and I want to be obeyed.

Ignazio, I want an explanation. Speak!

May I?

May I, Madame?

I am penitent, the voice of remorse.

Travet... Ignazio dear, you were sublime.

"My honor is worth more." Magnificent.

- Ah, madame. - Let it be.

No. What is this about "honor"?

But don't you know? He did it to defend you.

An infamous slander, which I confess, originated from me.

I made certain suppositions.

Ignazio, were you fired because of me?

- They slandered both of us. What could I do? - Alas!

But you told me it was because of official reasons.

- I didn't want to hurt you. - Ignazio, forgive me.

Why? Poor thing.

I too have been unjust towards you.

For not being able to restrain myself...

...for having wanted to go to the Royal that night.

Come in, Mr. Giachetta.

Come, take heart.

- Is Barbarotti here? - Yes, he's here.

- And we owe all this all to you? - Partly.

It's not all my fault.

It's this blessed tongue that has a life of its own.

Mr. Travet, Madame Travet...

...if you knew how sorry I am.

I cried, I cried a lot, and I wanted to fix it.

I ran, I went, I did...

- Mr. Giachetta. - What's this nonsense?

The open door, the family crying...

It looks like a funeral.

- What happened? - Worse than a funeral.

If we keep this up! Brigida, close the door.

- We're not in the square. - Yes.

- In the end, you have done your duty. - Who told you?

- Me, Madame. - Come, take heart!

You have a clear conscience, leave the rest to providence.

- Sure, while here we are. - It pains me much...

...because I see you suffering and I don't like dirty tricks.

But to be honest, I am happy that it ended like this...

...because we can finally come to business.

Fired. It's an ugly word.

Forget about it. I offer you something better.

Everything has been thought out!

I need an honest and trustworthy person to do the accounts...

...the books, some letters. I'm hiring you.

You'll earn a third more than you did as a clerk.

- Are you serious? - It's true.

And you'll get a part of the profits, if you become a partner.

- Thus, there will be a little more time for your family.

Give me your hand and let's shake on it.

Tonight the engagement party and tomorrow your new job.

First, you want...

We'll have one feast. New year, new life.

The children will marry, and you will be the witness of it.

- I, a witness? - You, Rosa, what do you say?

I'm fine, if you're happy. Paolin is a good boy.

- Give me your hand and let's shake on it - Agreed.

And so you won't be late at your new job...

...I brought this back. - What is it?

My watch?

Where did you get the ticket to get it back?

- I gave it to him - You? Who gave you permission?

- I thought I was acting for the good. - It would be nice if you acted more in the kitchen.

This is absolutely wrong, that you redeemed the watch for me.

- It's not right that you had to pay for it. - Who could forbid me?

Me, Sir. Bring it back to the shop, and I'll redeem it!

Take it, please. Don't tick me off.

- You're the one who ticks me off. - Do you know that you're pigheaded?

- Pigheaded! Me? - Master!

- What do you want? - Here's the Director. - Come, Carluccio.

The Director?

What does he want from me?

I fear that some "eggs are about to be cracked".

- My respects, Mr. Travet. - Good day, Sir.

- My respects, Madame. - Good day.

- At your service, Sir. - Good day.

- Good day. - Maybe I'm disturbing you...

...but I came because I have some good news.

- Good news? - Yes. - I already told him.

- Everything is fixed. - Truly?

- How? - Perhaps this morning I spoke a little roughly...

...but I found out the facts, and I see that you weren't to blame.

I went to the Minister and told him the truth.

The Manager has been transferred from Turin...

...and you will have your bonus and promotion.

- Promotion? Rosa, a promotion. - I'm ruined!

- Thank you, Sir!

Not at all, it's my duty. I hope that your husband will be happy.

- I'm very happy, but... - I hope you don't hesitate.

If you arrived a minute earlier, perhaps I would've returned...

...but I just now gave my word.

I found a position which pays me more money...

...and thinking about my children, I accepted, even without the prestige.

Prestige is what you had before, "But all that glitters is not gold".

Do you understand what you're doing?

Yes, I will collect my severance and retire from being a clerk.

Bravo! You won't regret it. That I promise you.

Marianin! Marianin! Stop, Carluccio.

Marianin!

What's the matter?

Nothing, nothing.

I wanted to tell you one thing. You too, Mr. Paolin.

Now that you're setting up a household, can I work for you?

No! You're way too crafty.

It's finished. Goodbye.

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