Original subtitles

- Where is Mr Jan? - I do not know.

Good morning, Mr Rzecki. He’s down in the cellar, sir.

Thank you.

- Good morning. - Good morning!

Hand me a glass.

Thank you.

Last month you spent 20 zlotys on a book,

and that’s precisely the amount I needed for a lawyer.

Let us go, father.

If you’re not transparent, no one will treat you with respect,

and you’ll always be humiliated.

You spent all that money.

He could have given it to me.

If I have to derail the trial…

What an odd pair.

The old man lost his mind, but the boy is clever.

- What’s his name? - Wokulski.

Maybe he’s not the best at running shop or in the cellar, but…

Oh, look!

Look at his sheer mechanical skill.

A machine like this could work forever.

But something got stuck in there, and it worked only for 15 minutes.

We had a professor come by once.

He took one look at the pump and said that nothing could be done,

but that he’s a clever young man and that he should study.

Since then Wokulski became serious.

He’s been buying books and spends all his nights reading.

What is he planning to do with such knowledge?

He’s been talking of going to Kiev University.

Light my way, please.

Maybe at least one of these clerks could achieve something…

I make a point of not interfering with his plans.

How are you, anyway?

Sadly, things are not going well.

Excuse me.

Not well at all.

The proprietor has been neglecting the shop.

He leaves to get a beer in the morning, and returns in the evening.

What about Mrs Mincel?

She spends hours at conferences

with fashion experts and hair stylists.

Old age has made her lose her mind.

Quiet, quiet!

What will you do now, o, great doctor?

See how hard it is to leave the cellar?

And you’re thinking of running off to a university!

Someone!

Look at his wonderful struggling.

What are you doing?!

You can easily get out, since you’re so smart!

Look at his wonderful struggling!

You!

THE DOLL

These beer bagels, they’re a treat, healthy, tasty, almost sweet!

Welcome, sir. How can I help you?

My dear sir…

So you want a pair of galoshes!

What size, may I ask?

I’m sure it’s a 42.

Mr Lisiecki! A size 42 for the gentleman.

Not everyone has the time to remember the size of their galoshes.

Paweł!

Lublin… And a transfer of 1200 guldens to Vienna…

Contact the saddler… That’s simple.

When is the proprietor coming back?

I expect him back within a month at most.

Provided there’s no war to delay him.

Staś… Mr Wokulski writes that there will be no war.

Still, the stocks are falling.

That’s not important.

Who cares about a war anyway,

if no Bonaparte takes part in it?

The Bonapartes’ career is over.

Is that so?

Mr Klein! Bonapartism is power!

There is one that’s stronger.

And what would that be?

Socialism…

Mr Rzecki!

Paweł, wipe the gentleman’s galoshes and wrap them in paper.

I suppose my kind sir wishes not to carry a useless package around.

Paweł, throw them in the box.

That’ll be 2 roubles and 50 kopecks.

Thank you very much.

50 kopecks for you, sir.

Here.

Thank you very much.

We hope to see you again. Thank you very much.

No one will make off with galoshes that have initials on them!

Have a nice day.

What time is it?

My watch has to be running late.

Your watch is always slow in the evenings,

and fast in the mornings.

I’ll wager you played whist all night long?

Do you think your haberdashery store and your grey hair

suffice a man for a whole day?

Why, sir!

I prefer to be a little grizzled than bald.

Oh, for goodness sake!

I swear to God.

I need to be in town before nine,

even if it would mean having to give in my notice.

You can make a start by doing that, and you’ll be free even now!

mark my words, Mr Mraczewski.

You should have been a Lord, not a shop-assistant.

It surprises me you never went for that calling!

You’d always have plenty of time then.

My mother is ill.

Of course she is.

Unimportant.

We have to put up a new display, maybe a carousel…

The fountain has gotten old.

Folly.

It’s all mere folly.

Yet all of you probably believe this is something very splendid.

So help me God…!

Staś!

Staś! Back from war!

8 months you’ve been away!

You didn’t recognise me at first!

But you remembered your shop, your friends!

You look thinner…

On the contrary, I’ve been gaining weight!

- How are you? - Very well.

The shop’s sales have increased.

But tell me, what’s the latest news?

I suppose you mean in politics…?

There will be peace.

Then why is Austria arming?

They want to seize Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Seize?!

And what of justice?!

The strong multiply and increase their numbers,

and the weak perish; that’s justice.

How can you say things like that?

Doesn’t the same law apply to me,

to you, to all of us?

Well… And how did things go with you?

Do you remember how much money I took with me when I went abroad?

And how much do you suppose I’ve brought back?

50…

Around 40… thousand… Am I right?

250 thousand roubles.

Nearly every month I’ve risked my entire fortune,

and nearly every day – my life.

But to risk your life for money when you had a good living…

That good living was stifling me for 6 years!

Don’t you remember how many times I was reminded

that I owed everything to my widow wife’s family?

The Mincels, it was always the Mincels!

In 6 months I made 10 times the money

that two generations of Mincels made in a half-century.

You’re still the same…

You’ve brought new goods in.

Yes…

The business is going well.

We need a new clerk.

We’ll hire two!

We can expand the store, it will be splendid.

Fancy that…

- Do you want to see? - Later.

Give me the ledger.

Income?

No, the debtors.

140 roubles?

- That’s not a lot. - Łęcki.

Miss Łęcka has an account too… Very good.

Very good.

She bought a purse for 3 roubles not long ago.

- Didn’t you overcharge it? - Not at all.

It was a first-rate purse, I picked it out myself.

- What kind as it? - One of those.

She looked at this one.

It’s very well made.

You know… I’ll take it myself. Mine is completely worn out.

I’ll find you a better one!

I’ll be taking this one.

Won’t you look around the shop?

I’m rather tired. Let us go.

Am I imagining things, or does my daughter seem upset?

Ah, Papa.

I fear so much that our family silver

might end up on some stranger’s table!

Our ancestral silver has already graced tables of Tatars,

and rebellious peasantry.

One who fights must risk losing.

They were lost in wars.

And is there no war on today?

It is only the weapons that have changed.

Instead of scythes and yatagans, they fight with roubles.

So we have lost…?

No, my child. We are just beginning to win.

I have bold plans.

Hitherto I said nothing, but today I met a man

who understands my ideas.

Who could he be?

A certain Wokulski.

With his help I plan to organise our bourgeoisie,

and form a company to support the industry.

You, Papa?

Is he not… a speculator?

You don’t know him?

I heard only of his successes in trading

during the war with Turkey.

He worked hard for it.

I remember only his hands…

He got frostbite in Siberia.

What was he doing there?

He took part in the uprising,

and so he had to repent for his youthful exaltations.

So he’s a hero, at that.

You will get the chance to meet him, since I plan to assemble us at home.

You want to invite that man here, Papa?

I have to speak to a couple of people.

I’m curious to hear what the world has to say to the combination.

One who has the power in their hands has the world at their feet.

From the Countess.

Allow me to swallow this pill for you.

Listen, this is interesting:

„Dear Bela, forget my previous...” That’s not important…

„The Easter decorations in our church will look quite splendid!

My good, honest Wokulski is giving us a fountain,

artificial birds and a number of fine carpets.

He’s incomparable, that Wokulski!

„I am pleased, but if you were absent amidst these wonders,

I should fall quite ill.

With a thousand hugs and kisses, Joanna”.

He has won her over so easily!

He really must be something of a genius.

Let’s not overreact…

He certainly is a man of tremendous energy,

but as for the gift of foresight, I would not say he has any.

I often play whist with him, where foresight is essential.

The result is I win around 70 roubles,

although I lay no claim to genius.

What is it, Iza?

Nothing… Migraine.

Please, look after her, Flora.

A sudden migraine like that should pass rather quickly.

Quickly, ladies, to the other side.

Quickly, quickly!

Watch out for the horses!

Yes?

“Yes”, what?

Mrs Meliton is waiting in the office.

How can I help you?

The silver might not be of great use to you,

but it was a masterstroke buying up Łęcki’s promissory notes!

The mark of a real tradesman!

Everything in order?

Naturally.

The mark of a tradesman?

I pity you.

Why so?

Women aren’t gained by sacrifice, but by power.

The power of mind.

Brute force would be more accurate.

It is my job to know it.

A count will be paid for facilitating the coupling between horses,

and me – for doing the same thing for people.

Was there anything else?

Baron Krzeszowski’s favourite mare is for sale.

If I’m not wrong about their relations,

Miss Izabela would be sincerely pleased

if the Baron were not to own that mare on the day of the races.

I don’t think understand.

These high-society intrigues are very subtle, indeed.

Why does she care about that so?

The Baron tried to court Miss Izabela, but was met with a refusal.

He then declared her an aging maid, who would marry her own butler.

The auction of Łęcki’s townhouse is coming up.

- Ah, Auntie! - Don’t get hysterical, Izabela.

The marshal is no Adonis, that’s for sure,

but if all our duties were easy to fulfil…

there would be no merit!

The marshal is repulsive. He’s drooling permanently.

It doesn’t have to be the marshal…

The baron, however…

The baron!

He colours his hair and his hands are weirdly stained!

Please try to remember about the ruin your father might soon be facing.

We still have the townhouse.

Which they are trying to sell at a most inopportune time.

Even your dowry will be lost.

If it comes to the worst, we still have the family silver…

Think it through – isn’t it a shame to be rid of such wonderful mementos?

What then?

Am I to hesitate between selling myself and the service?

That is something I wanted to talk to you about.

I could offer you, should you accept it,

a loan of 3000 roubles.

I’m only offering. I wouldn’t want to impose.

Consider the options, and choose one that suits you best.

But above all, consider their consequences.

Come here, Flora, dear child.

Now…

Take a carriage, ride around town,

and take care of all your errands.

Just remember to look beautiful during the fundraiser,

as beautiful as only you can!

You know, Flora, I decided against selling the silver.

- That is impossible… - How so?

I got a letter stating

that the dinner-service and the silver has been bought.

Where does the young Miss wish to go to?

To Mr Wokulski’s shop.

But why, dear Iza?

I wish to purchase a new pair of Parisian gloves.

And the other one?

Could you put it up?

Is Mr Mraczewski in?

- Mr Mraczewski… - How may I help you?

We came to purchase a pair of gloves.

Number five and a half, was it not?

Five and three-quarters. Have you forgotten already?

There are things that one could never forget.

But since you desire size five and three-quarters…

Twelve…

Look at him, talking to women with such ease today.

My memory never fails.

Can I do anything else for you, Miss?

Mraczewski is impressively good at this.

- How about a bottle of perfume? - They’re Atkinson’s, top of the line.

- Genius! - He simply lacks intellect.

A Lady of your status could not do without Atkinson’s perfume.

English perfume, trinkets from Paris…

Can I assist you in any other way, Miss?

That’s probably why women like him so much.

Flora, please pay that gentlemen.

Excuse me…

Excuse me… The cash desk is over there.

Am I speaking to Mr Wokulski?

At your service.

Was it you who purchased our family silver?

Yes, it was.

I expect you intend to sell them.

And if my father were to want to purchase them back…

What price would you ask?

The price I paid.

That is, with a percentage of 6… to 8 per annum.

So you would forego the profit you expected?

Why?

Because, madam, trade does not depend

merely on profit,

but on the circulation of cash.

Goodbye, and… thank you for the explanation.

- Flora, let us go home. - Allow me.

Thank you.

Today you didn’t even try to conceal your devotion!

It was caused by the way she looked at me…!

I am positive that in a day or two I’ll receive a scented note…

And after that – our first rendezvous…

„For your sake I’ll break the rules I have been brought up in,”

and after that – “do you not despise me?”

What are you talking about?

We’ve all heard of your conquests: they’re called „Matilda”.

You impress them with a pork chop and a glass of beer.

Matilda’s are for every day, and ladies – for holidays, Mr Lisiecki.

What can we do for His Excellency?

Cufflinks, you see… Ordinary cufflinks.

It’d be best if they were shaped like a jockey’s cap.

How may we help you?

Perhaps links in the form of a horseshoe

would be better, sir?

I would think the Baron might need both kinds.

Tell me, what use are horseshoes to a person

who can’t afford to keep horses?

Please select a few more trifles in the shape of horseshoes.

Perhaps an ashtray?

And a rather elegant inkwell with a saddle and a jockey on it…

I will take the elegant inkwell with a saddle and a jockey

and a hunting-crop on it.

Tell me, young man, are you not ashamed to stock

such expensive trifles while our country is in ruins?

You have a most excellent selection of goods here.

Send these to my home. Adieu!

May I inquire how much that gentlemen owes you?

The account of that gentlemen, if he has one,

is his business and mine exclusively.

I am Krzeszowska, and that gentleman is my husband.

Forgive me, madam, but relations between husband and wife

are no concern of mine.

No doubt that is most convenient… for a salesman.

Have a lovely day.

He wishes to keep a horse, which she opposes.

On the other hand, he won’t let her buy the Łęcki townhouse,

which is where she lives and where she lost her daughter.

They’re an odd pair.

They’re related to me, but what of it?

I haven’t any money, and have to serve behind a counter.

They have money without working for it… A fine state of affairs, is it not?

Don’t drag me into your affairs, Mr Klein! All socialists are thieves,

they are out to divide up everyone else’s property!

Ah, to be able to free myself from shop keeping!

I think I need a drink.

I have a bottle of good Hungarian wine.

Mr Mraczewski!

Sir?

You will look for another post starting tomorrow.

But why, sir?

Why?

There is no job for you here.

Jesus Christ…

Where shall I go if you dismiss me so suddenly?

You’ll get good references.

Only one wine glass left.

We don’t need wine glasses.

I haven’t seen you like this in a long time.

Something must be bothering you, Stach.

I already know I can’t be of any help.

But you see…

Bitterness is like a poison. It does you good to spit it out.

I don’t you to confide in me,

so I feel no need to confide in you.

What?

Is this how you would treat an old friend?

Never mind.

How tired I am…

Listen to me, Stach…

I know you did not go abroad only to make a fortune.

Perhaps you’ve guessed it.

I know more than you might think.

It pains me to know that you do not trust me.

Remember that an old soldier’s advice

might protect you from more than one folly.

Old dreamer!

To your great intentions’ fruition.

They surely seem great to me.

But in reality, they are quite small.

So be it.

I’m so old that it is better for me to know nothing.

I wish for one thing only:

a beautiful death.

Promise me that when the time comes, you will let me know.

I will.

When the time comes, I will let you know and you will become my matchmaker.

A matchmaker…

To your intentions’ fruition.

Whatever they may be.

I only know one thing: they must be worthy of your greatness.

Please, have a look.

Welcome, Mr Wokulski!

I was afraid you wouldn’t come.

I told you he’d be here, Auntie, and with a sack of gold, at that.

I must tell you that we were quite saddened.

Allow me to put your imperials on top,

to shame those gentlemen who prefer squandering

their money on champagne.

Please, Iza, Mr Wokulski has given so generously to our cause…

Please, won’t you sit with us, Mr Wokulski.

Our patron has left us just a moment ago.

Your ladyship seeks to deprive me of my deserts in the next world

by praising deeds I may well have done

with a view of profit in this.

I guessed it.

I am your friend, Mr Wokulski,

so you must take certain allowances with me.

I am at your service.

Recently you dismissed one of your employees…

Why was that?

Apparently, it was to do with a difference in political opinions…

I know that boy’s mother, and believe me,

it is pitiful to see her in despair…

Excuse me…

Do you never change your mind?

No.

Suppose I were to plead for that young man?

I would reply that Mr Mraczewski lost his position

because of his tactless comments

on the customers of our shop.

Perhaps the customers themselves behave tactlessly.

That is their privilege, they pay for it.

Excuse me.

The young man will get a position, but in Moscow.

Thank you, Mr Wokulski.

Please come to me for the Easter meal.

Please, do!

You were flirting with him, Auntie.

Such social relations are "comme il faut" abroad.

What if they turn his head?

That would simply prove he had a weak head.

Your Ladyship…

Unfortunately, we must take our leave now, Doctor.

A thousand thanks, Your Ladyship.

A thousand thanks.

Come.

Where are you going?

I could go with you.

Or you could go with me.

Thank you.

Come, children, let us go to Church now.

Easter lamb!

You prayed and you cried.

Can I ask about the reason?

What are you, a priest to be asking that?

A funny man, are you?

I’ve been told once

that there are Angels on this Earth with wings as white as snow.

Listen…

There is someone who is willing to help you.

Tell me, honestly…

Listen to me and answer.

Why were you crying in church?

You see, I went to the ceremony.

I wanted to get some entertainment.

But no.

I thought of my landlady, and broke down in tears instantly.

I began to plead with God to afflict her with some sickness,

or to help me get away from her.

How old are you?

Usually I’m 16.

But I’m 19, really.

Tell me, do you want to work?

Doing what?

You could learn to sew.

No one could manage to live on 8 roubles a month.

Besides, I’m not that worthless yet, I can do without sewing for anyone.

Don’t you want to leave this place?

I do!

Go to the Magdalene Sisters.

I’d need a recommendation.

I’ll give you a letter,

which you will take with you and you can stay there.

Nothing will come of it.

They’ll take me back after the holidays is over,

and treat me like they did after New Year.

- I was sick for a week then. - They won’t send you back.

I’m owe money to the old hag!

It’s your choice.

If you don’t want to take this chance, you can do whatever you want.

Welcome, Mr Stanislaw!

Pray, do not suppose the aristocracy is quite so alarming.

You see? The Count.

I know him. He owes me some 300 roubles.

The banker…

Wokulski, upon my word!

There’s a great deal of excitement from Paris about those boulevards.

I wanted to you speak to you about that.

Let us meet somewhere, then. Where?

I would prefer to come to your house.

Call on me next Wednesday, then, for breakfast.

Excuse me for a moment…

Joasia?

Oh, I am so pleased!

So pleased that you have done as I asked!

Countess is beginning to introduce us to tradespeople.

I have no prejudice against tradespeople.

But he made his fortune on military trades!

My best friend is very interested in meeting you.

Do you see the old lady sat next to the bishop?

That is Duchess Zasławska.

Ah, Prince!

How do you do.

- May I, cousin? - Of course.

Allow me to leave you for a moment. Excuse me.

Your plans have caused tremendous upheaval

among our cotton manufacturers.

Isn’t that the word: “cotton”?

Indeed.

Is the competition you’re creating really so dangerous?

It is true that I have 4 million roubles credit

with the Moscow Manufacturers,

but I do not know yet if their products will suit out market.

A huge sum of money, to be sure!

What may I offer you, gentlemen?

Allow me, dear cousin, introduce Mr Wokulski.

An active man, an active citizen…

That is recommendation enough, is it not?

We have met before.

Would you care for some wine?

If you wish.

Regarding our conversation,

don’t you think it would be most suitable to build a factory here, in our country,

a Polish factory able to produce cheap fabrics?

I’m not interested in that.

May I, Prince? Mr Wokulski.

- Excuse me. - Excuse me.

Well, the Countess has achieved a real coup d’etat!

He’ll want to marry here, surely!

That’s for the better for our girls.

Old fool.

Excuse me, but I must return to the guests.

Thank you.

Stanislaw is your name, is it not?

Sit down, please.

Pray tell, which branch of the Wokulskis do you belong to?

A branch… unknown to anyone here.

Didn’t your father serve in the army?

My uncle, but not my father.

Wasn’t his first name also Stanislaw?

He was a lieutenant,

later a captain in the Seventh Infantry regiment.

- The 1st brigade of the 2nd division? - Indeed.

Is he still alive?

He died five years ago.

Died.

Where is he buried, the poor soul?

In Zasław, where he lived after returning from abroad.

There’s a ruined castle there.

Yes.

My uncle took me to see it often.

There is also… a big rock.

I know.

Your uncle was a poor lieutenant,

and I was unfortunately very rich.

Great crimes are always being committed in this world of ours,

but surely the greatest one is to murder love.

Have you a souvenir of any kind?

A golden cross.

And nothing more?

A bundle of letters and a miniature of some kind.

My uncle sealed them up himself some days before he died

and asked that they be buried with him.

It seems like someone’s cruel trick to introduce that gentleman.

He is an enigmatic figure.

But the Prince was so civil with him…

I heard he spent some time in Siberia.

Is it true that they only eat snow up there?

What do you think about that man?

He’s just looking to create connections.

He’s trying to get closer to us.

Do you suppose he’d dare?

To pursue me?

I don’t understand you.

You don’t understand… He’s trying to buy me.

But he’ll soon find out I’m simply too expensive.

Gentlemen!

I have taken the liberty of bringing you here

regarding an issue highly relevant to the public interest.

I don’t understand.

The more technical side of the issue will be graciously explained

by Mr Wokulski, a man… a professional.

With my project I aim to facilitate Poland’s trade with the East.

Above all I am interested in investing in textiles.

That would undermine our own industry!

I am not concerned with the manufacturers,

but with the consumers.

And thus, we’re met with the question of public interest.

You, sir.

My kind sir, would you be as kind as to explain to us,

how do you avoid harming our own factories with this project?

Firstly, the factories aren’t “ours”, they are German.

Our workers have no opportunity to better themselves.

They are treated and paid badly.

Goodness me, it stirs me to just listen to you…

I have at my disposal merchandise worth 3 to 4 million roubles.

It is my personal foreign credit.

If, however, the cash we’ve collected

could replace that credit,

the interest would amount to 15%, perhaps even more.

This aspect of the matter concerns you, gentlemen,

who invest your money in banks at low rates of interest.

I am offering you an opportunity

to use it directly to increase your own incomes.

- That is all. - Excellent!

Would it be possible to hear more details?

I can only discuss them with my partners.

We have corn in our granaries!

Today we talk of trade!

But what is there to stop us

from debating on other matters tomorrow or the day after that?

Goodness me! How well the Prince talks.

Let us honour the host, the most respected of men,

by rising!

I shall come in with 50 thousand roubles at first.

I’ll contribute twice –

no, three times more than our Prince! Goodness me!

I am Maruszewicz. I shall be blunt with you.

I am not wealthy, but I have good instincts,

and I wish to find an occupation.

What is your profession?

I have not chosen one yet.

What wages do you expect?

A thousand…

2 thousand roubles.

I doubt we shall have any posts

suited to your requirements.

Gentlemen, it’s time we write down the rules of our partnership.

Mr Wokulski, allow me to introduce

Mr Julian Ochocki.

He’s a scientist, a tad eccentric, but it’s worth to talk to him.

You’re a close relative to the Łęcki family.

A bit.

My mother was a Łęcka, but my father… merely an Ochocki.

Are you interested in physics or chemistry?

I have been able to improve my microscope a bit,

build a new kind of electric battery…

and a new kind of lamp.

You’re Ochocki the inventor, then!

And what of it?

To rush headlong through life and end up with an electric lamp.

You dreamt of flying machines as well, haven’t you?

Not of a steering of the hot-air balloon,

as those are lighter than air, for that is nothing.

But a flight of a heavy machine...

We have already harnessed the wind, thunderbolt, light…

Don’t you think it’s time to liberate ourselves

from gravity’s grasp?

I’ll either go mad – or give mankind wings!

Suppose you do – what then?

Fame!

- I need to ask you a question. - What is it?

You were once an avid enthusiast of the natural sciences.

Indeed I was.

At what age did your interest in that field weaken?

Anyone who does not wish to belong to one, can join the other!

But firstly let us invite Mr Wokulski

to be kind enough to take part in our committee meetings.

I doubt whether I can be of any use to you, gentlemen.

There will be specialists.

They want to do something, but…

they lack the energy to do so.

They have everything – money, titles, respect, so they want nothing.

But without that urge…

Excuse me.

But why should we, pray tell, form a partnership?

Why don’t the merchants?

It’s odd how little it all concerns me.

At times I feel a strange emptiness. No desires, nothing!

Only in the very depths of my soul, a drop of stinging bitterness,

so small that it could barely be perceived,

and yet so bitter that the whole world could be poisoned by it.

A momentary apathy and exhaustion.

Yes, I’ve heard that before.

You think about your business too much.

Do you plan to change professions?

If the banks were to be reinforced with avenues,

this place could become the most beautiful part of the city.

Buildings, shops, boulevards…

Boulevards.

They may stand for a time, then they will begin to crumble, overgrown…

Just like everything else in this city.

This is the source of the sickness!

What one may throw out of their window one day,

they’ll drink tomorrow.

Boulevards!

Channels.

A spring of water uphill,

and you could save thousands of people annually.

Look.

It’s a sick, wild place.

But there is a simple cure for it all: work, with fair wages!

You can’t save everyone.

You can choose a few.

But after them there will be others, and they will keep coming.

I once saw a black-coal wagon surrounded by people,

standing sideways to the road, and a horse with a broken leg,

it had its ribs showing, and it was tied to a tree.

Why should I be reminded of that horse just now?

Keep making money or even get married.

So long you want something, so long as you’re busy.

Farewell, sentimental merchant.

Did you happen to have an accident in the shop?

I don’t understand.

A small fire or a theft?

God forbid!

Too bad.

Your shop would gain on popularity if someone hung themselves in it.

As if our old man couldn't do it anymore.

Starting a business like this is not easy.

Come here for a moment...

What’s happened with you?

Stach,

I’ll die at Nalewki street if you don’t help me.

Why didn’t you come to me earlier?

I wouldn’t do it today, either, were it not for my children.

I’m sorry, is there…

Ignacy.

Mr Szlangbaum is now a clerk in our shop

with a yearly salary of 1500 roubles.

Is that alright, Henryk?

A young lady is looking for you.

Well, well.

What are you planning to do now?

Maybe I could work as a servant?

Why?

Otherwise I would need a sewing-machine and a place to live…

All that…

Wait here.

My dear Wysocki.

I heard you have an empty room.

That’s right, sir.

A young seamstress will live there from now on.

You will receive a fitting compensation,

and make sure she’s not bringing anyone home.

Ah, I understand, sir.

One word from you, sir,

and I’ll deliver her myself.

You’re quite stupid, my dear Wysocki!

How are things with you?

We’ve spent the winter at my brother’s,

he’s a guard on the Vienna railroad,

but he’s just as poor as we are, since they transferred him.

He had three acres of land in Skierniewice, those were good times!

Remember,

the walls need to be repainted, the floors must be washed…

and get some furniture.

No problem! Consider it done.

What a mess.

Allow me to sort these for you, sir.

Here.

Wouldn’t you say things are quite organised now?

I don’t know if I did it properly, but I meant well.

Here we have only the best quality goods,

porcelain, toys…

and in this room, we keep textiles.

- And what do you keep in there? - In where?

Behind your back.

You see, Stach…

Back in my days we used to nail it to the threshold.

For good luck.

Indeed… For good luck.

But why, pray tell, is the garlic so fragrant today, Mr Klein?

I think a certain someone prefers having his matzo with some kielbasa.

Mr Lisiecki.

Mr Szlangbaum was my friend back when I did not fare so well.

Why not allow him to be my friend

now that things are going somewhat better?

I’m sorry.

May I go now?

Ah, old friend.

It might be time for you to move into a new apartment.

But Stach!

This place is already lived in!

My old friend, I can tell you’re not very happy about this.

So I’ve already been moved.

My dear friend!

The other merchants laugh at us, say that we spend too much

at an uncertain time.

A European war is brewing.

Think nothing of it!

The uproar will die down soon, and we will have left our competitors behind.

Hurry up, now! You’re late.

Jasar is coming in third!

- No, look, he’ll come in fourth. - I’m telling you, third!

- Look, look! - Look, he’ll take him over!

You must be excited!

The jockey rode according to my instructions.

Excuse me. Mr Szulc!

One moment.

If only you knew…

how much depends on you.

I’m willing to bet 50 roubles that this mare wins.

Are you in?

With pleasure.

Mr Szulc, it’s time to lead her out.

- One moment. - She’s a beautiful mare.

I assure you that there will be no complications.

Finally.

He’s a genius in his field.

May I introduce – Mr Yung, the best jockey in the country. Mr Wokulski.

Tell us, Mr Yung. Are we winning today?

Ach.

If we win, I will owe you 50 roubles over and above the agreement.

- Sorry? - Ach.

Ah, damn your mare to Hell!

Karolina! Karolina!

How do you do.

The weather is nice.

- What was I trying to say… - At your service, Count.

Baron Krzeszowski allows himself to ask you

to sell him your horse.

He says he’ll give you 1200 roubles.

The race is about to start.

You entered the race anonymously.

So the mare could be the Baron’s.

It’s just a gentlemen's agreement.

Isn’t that right?

What if I bet on that mare, sir?

You would have the right to refuse, then.

- Problem solved. Excuse me. - I understand.

Is it true, that you bought the baron’s mare?

- Yes, it is… - You have played a fine trick on him!

Thanks to you I won a bet with my aunt.

We’ve only come here today to watch this race.

Do your best, my beautiful.

You must win.

Only if you wish it so.

Let us go.

Mr Wokulski.

Here is your reward and 800 for the mare.

Thank you.

Madam, permit me to hand you this for your charities.

Thank you!

Hello.

I am pleased, cousin, that your admirers are triumphant.

Though I am sorry it had to be at my expense.

Indeed – I have the devil’s own luck with her admirers…

Baron!

Surely, I have said nothing wrong!

I merely said I have the devil’s own luck

with my cousin’s admirers…

A word, Baron.

Oh, it’s you, is it.

Excuse me.

- You pushed me. - Excuse me.

That is not enough.

- Do you expect satisfaction? - Precisely so.

I am at your service.

Oh, confound it, I forgot my visiting cards.

Have you a notebook of some kind?

I shall be delighted to finish off all accounts.

I shall endeavour to give you full satisfaction.

A quarrel, upon my word.

Over such a trifle?

We all know the Baron to be a tad distracted.

And a dimwit at that!

But Mr Wokulski does not need to be aware of that.

Papa!

Merci, monsieur.

There you are.

Light your pipe, if you wish.

Does medicine recognise such a state of mind

where a man thinks that previously scattered knowledge

and his feelings suddenly became a single organism?

Of course.

Continuous mental work and good food

can form new cells in one’s brain.

Or join together old ones.

Do you think that it’s possible… to love a woman ideally,

- without desiring her? - Of course.

It is a kind of mask in which the instinct to preserve the species

- likes to disguise itself. - Instinct, species!

The instinct for preserving something!

Three phrases, four pieces of nonsense.

Make a sixth and get married.

Sixth? Where’s the fifth?

You have already done it.

You have fallen in love.

Experts say first love is the worst.

After the first, a hundred others are waiting.

But after the hundredth – there’s nothing.

I have a duel.

I’m not a surgeon.

I’ve parted with medicine long ago.

You’re not to be my doctor, but the second.

I had a wonderful dream.

I saw two messengers carrying my bloodied corpse

into my dear wife’s house.

What?

What have we here…?

What to play…?

She threw herself on my blood-stained breast,

paid all my debts, of course,

and assigned a thousand roubles for my funeral.

I don’t care if you’re duelling the old Devil,

all I want to know is who would pay off your promissory notes.

Shut it, old fool!

Ah, a funeral…

I don’t plan on dying of starvation just because His Excellency

is interested in visiting the cemetery every few months.

What next?

I don’t understand.

The dream, sir?

I rose from the dead, of course.

And I took the thousand roubles to spend on personal expenses.

Yes…

Enough, Baron!

Sleep a few hours, for your hands might tremble and you’ll miss the mark.

What, what?

I only duel because I choose to.

It truly is rotten luck to have a duel with a tradesman.

If I hit him, I’ll look like a hunter who goes out for a bear

and gets a peasant’s cow instead.

If he hits you, it will be as though a carriage driver hit you with a whip...

If we both miss…

No, you shoot for first blood.

Excuse me, Baron Krzeszowski admits,

that he could have pushed Mr Wokulski, because he is distracted.

He is ready to apologise to Mr Wokulski.

What do you say to that, gentlemen?

Of course…

You’ve obviously planned for… just in case…

That will not be necessary.

We don’t have permission to reconciliate.

Monsieur, en avant!

The fool will miss, he is aiming at my head…

He didn’t miss.

A head shot!

Didn’t I say His Excellency would finally catch it?

Silence, you ninny…

What a curious coincidence.

Is it?

I have a hole in my face, but the bullet is nowhere to be found.

No.

No?

I didn’t swallow it, did I?

Ah, of course! The bullet went in the pistol, and the catch hit your jaw.

A most interesting shot.

I should have called the police on these fools!

Off with you to the Baroness and tell the cook

that I am gravely wounded.

A fine shot, Mr Wokulski.

It surprises me that a man of your trade…

- Ah, but perhaps that offends you. - Not at all.

…A man of your trade should shoot so well!

Where is my pince-nez?

I look like… Thank you…

I look like an old monkey with the mumps…

Tell me please – what have you wounded me for?

You insulted a lady.

C’est ça. I am sorry.

- No, it is I who is sorry. - It is nothing!

And as for my tooth, I should have had false ones long ago.

You would scarcely believe what a state my teeth are in.

All of them!

Good morning, Mr Szlangbaum.

What’s this, are you also in need of financial aid?

No, but I do have a request.

Your requests are my commands, Mr Wokulski.

You protected my little Henryk.

I want to buy Łęcki’s house.

I know that house.

Baroness Krzeszowska is planning to buy it.

It will go for sixty thousand roubles.

It want it to go for ninety thousand.

I’m sorry, I don’t quite understand.

If you were selling the house, and the Łęcki wanted to buy it,

then it would be in your interest to send the price up.

But if you are buying it, then it is in your interest

to lower the price!

It is in my interest to pay more.

If I did not know you, I should think

that you were doing bad business.

But because I know you, I think

you are doing strange business.

Please, Mr Wokulski, do not do such a foolish thing.

I, Old Szlangbaum, beseech you…!

Believe me when I say good will come of it.

Aha!

I shall find you a bidder who will send the price up for 15 roubles.

He is a very respectable man. A Catholic.

Only one must not give him an advance on the fee…

I shall also provide you with some very respectable ladies,

and a couple of Jews, at five roubles each.

It will be such an auction!

You won’t have to worry about anything.

May I ask that the matter remain confidential?

Mr Wokulski.

You had no need to say that.

Do you have business with me?

No, no. I just wanted to see how things were going.

I heard your esteemed father is buying a townhouse today.

- A house? - Yes.

I don’t know anything about that.

Peanuts, peanuts!

A very good tea.

Buy some peanuts!

But if you sincerely want it to go well,

if you ran about…

Dear lady, I have run about enough in the business of this auction.

So you are deserting me?

I’ll be in court.

…and this way you can make 25.

And stand an hour in a stuffy courtroom…

But that kind of money is hard to come by!

Twenty-five roubles… in cash?

Ah, no, God forbid!

You get five roubles, and the twenty will go towards paying your debt

to that poor Kupferman feller,

who hasn’t seen any money from you for the last 2 years.

One moment. Are you looking for me?

No, no.

Are you sure you aren’t looking for me?

- God, forbid. - I see!

If only a hundred and fifteen…

Well, a hundred and ten thousand!

As a lawyer I’m sure you know of ways I do not!

The price you’re requesting is simply too high.

But I, myself, paid 100 thousand for it!

You’ve simply paid too much. Excuse me.

Give me one percent per thousand above sixty thousand…

I’ll pay one percent per thousand above a hundred and twenty thousand.

You must excuse me, Excellency…

- Will you take ten roubles? - I won’t say no even to a rouble…

If Your Excellency risks it,

we could stop it from reaching seventy thousand.

Leave me alone!

Do you know Miss Izabela?

- Łęcki is a doubtful case. - Doubtful? And what about Mr Wokulski?

Mr Wokulski is big business.

Why are you pushing so? Are we cattle, gentlemen?!

A three-story house made in stone, with a driveway and a garden.

The house has three wings.

The price of the house

is sixty thousand roubles.

Why, I know that house!

It’s worth a hundred and twenty thousand roubles at least!

What are you saying? It’s a positive ruin, a morgue!

Who is that scoundrel?

Him? He’ll be hanged one day, pay him no mind…

Upon my word, one could safely pay a hundred and thirty thousand for it.

Who is that scoundrel?!

Him? He’s a well-known criminal, not worth spitting on…

Silence!

Sixty thousand and five hundred roubles.

- It’s not worth a penny more! - Sixty-five thousand roubles.

Sixty-five thousand and a hundred roubles!

Sixty-six thousand.

Seventy thousand.

Crooks! Thieves! They stole my honour!

My poor, unfortunate child!

Quiet down there!

Seventy-five thousand roubles!

Going once!

Eighty thousand roubles!

And a hundred roubles!

Eighty-five roubles!

Eighty-five thousand and a hundred roubles!

Make it… ninety thousand roubles.

Ninety thousand, going once!

Bid! Make a bid, sir!

What are you fussing about?

Are you buying or not? Get lost!

Quiet! Ninety thousand, going once!

Ninety thousand, going twice! And… sold!

This isn’t right.

- What? - This isn’t right, it’s dishonest…!

What isn’t right?

After paying off your mortgage you’ll have made thirty thousand roubles.

Yes, but I could have sold it for a hundred-twenty thousand,

- if only more care had been taken… - Indeed.

That house is worth around a hundred-twenty thousand.

There! If only it had been taken care of…

My dear sir, no recriminations, please!

You have been taking advice from crooked dealers,

some scoundrel from jail!

Excuse me, not everyone who has been to jail

is a scoundrel, dear sir!

Yes, that house was worth around a hundred-twenty thousand.

That’s right!

The next auction is about to begin.

What sort of business are you up to, Mr Szlangbaum?

You could have bought that house for seventy-one thousand.

It’s worth no more today.

Not to some, but perhaps to another it is.

Dear Lord, Mr Ignacy! I have been waiting 3 hours for you.

- What is wrong? - Don’t you know what is going on?

I beg your pardon?

Suzin is travelling from Moscow, and has made a stop in Warsaw,

and tonight he’s headed to Paris.

He is trying to persuade Wokulski to go with him,

He says it’s essential that he come, but that blockhead-!

Mr Mraczewski! How dare you?

I knew the business would go sour after I left!

- Where is Stach? - He’s at your place, sir.

- I mean, Mr Wokulski. - In your apartment.

Stanisław Piotrowicz, a rouble is like an overworked horse.

But a million roubles multiplies like a pig,

bearing a couple more millions yearly.

Welcome, welcome...

You don’t visit me in Moscow, you don’t respond to my letters…

You don’t mind that we made a mess, do you?

You're the boss here!

You’d call doctors…

Go to Karlsbad… But no.

Mr Wokulski is seating in Warsaw,

playing Poland’s national anthem on the pianoforte!

Tell me what you need from me.

I bought some fine goods in Paris, a dozen ships…

- That’s not my specialty. - No matter.

We’ll find some marine and army engineers.

And as for why, for what, and against whom – don’t ask.

I’ll make money, and you’ll make money – that’s all.

Think it over, Stanisław Piotrowicz. I’ll be in my hotel room.

You’ve grown tougher amidst those nobles of yours.

Drop everything and come with me!

Well, my old friend.

What is everybody saying?

Oh, dear Lord…

Tell me as it is!

Some of them are saying you’re beginning to lose your mind.

The rest is saying you’ll soon go bankrupt.

Damn it!

What do you think?

Even if the ground breaks beneath my feet…

Even if the Heavens fall on my head, I will not surrender!

Even for the pleasure of being in Miss Łęcka’s company…

one should not throw a chance for a big profit away.

What if it suited me to throw my entire fortune away for her?

I am not as naďve as people think me to be!

You say that because you do not know her!

I thought that someone who risks death and rumours

would have a higher purpose in mind.

I don’t care about higher purpose!

Just once, I want to do something for myself

My head is overflowing with words, with clichés

that only sound beautiful, but no one puts into action!

- Shall I call for a doctor? - Heavens, no!

Are you alright, Papa?

I’m quite alright. I just thought that if I died…

Wokulski is the only man alive that you could trust.

What role would you have him assume in that case, father?

What role?

The role of an advisor.

The caretaker of our fortune, or what is left of it.

I’ve received a letter from Krzeszowska not an hour ago.

What did that foolish woman want this time?

She writes to me that Wokulski just bought our townhouse.

And that he paid twenty thousand more than its actual worth.

Wait a moment… This could be true.

How can you say that so calmly…!

I lost, but Wokulski gained, because he can wait.

So you don’t see this as a good-will act?

Let him overpay for a townhouse!

He’s a tradesman for a reason, he surely know how much to pay for it.

It all cements my belief

that that gentleman, while making friends, is still doing business.

Of course.

He may not be a rotten man, but a tradesman, still.

Excuse me. I am not feeling well.

He’s not accepting guests, he is ill.

What can I do, when he has money, he is ill,

and when he’s not, he’s without a penny!

Quiet, for Heaven’s sake!

Why are you making such a ruckus?

I can come back tomorrow, since you’re ill today.

But you take the money, anyway!

And then they talk gently and adequately…

Dear Mr Szymon…

Quiet down! Stop being so loud.

What are you doing here, Mr Spiegelman?

We have some business with His Excellency.

We can take care of any business tomorrow in my office at six.

No hurry. Why are you in such a hurry, Mr Wokulski?

Have a good day. Farewell.

Mikołaj, do not admit anyone on business while your master is ill.

Forgive me, Mr Stanisław.

Look at what the old usurers are doing…

- Alarming my daughter for no reason! - Is it a large sum?

Almost nothing…

Five to six thousand…

Do they owe you that much?

I don’t owe them that much,

but someone has paid off my promissory notes in March!

Who?

Pay off your debts as the creditors come to you.

That’s true…

But don’t you find it most unfortunate,

that it all happened just now, when we are to go to Paris!

I’ll cover all expenses.

You need not touch your interest,

and you may go to Paris without hesitation.

Splendid of you!

You are an honourable man!

The doctor came.

Dear God, I’ve never needed a doctor before.

Please, Stanisław, go to Izabela now.

That duel has had us very worried, indeed.

Oh, I am glad.

Of what?

That everything turned out this way.

It would be a weight off my conscience

if you were to ask for something tantamount to your kindness.

In that case, could I have a request?

What is it?

I only ask that I could be of assistance to you in everything, anytime.

That is a trick.

I’m trying to simply return a favour, and you’re coercing me

into having to return two of them.

Were you the one who bought our house?

It was me.

Why did you put up a Jew to outbid?

I am a tradesman.

Locking up capital may damage the credit…

You have been interesting yourself with our affairs for a while now.

Why are you persecuting us?

Persecuting? Me?

Mr Starski.

Oh, how glad I am to see you again, dearest cousin.

Mr Wokulski, may I introduce Mr Starski.

I heard you were coming back from China!

London, actually.

I still keep thinking that I’m on the boat.

I do hope you stay for a while longer this time.

That depends.

Who’s that?

My father’s agent. Depends on what?

On how much money my grandmother is willing to spend.

How charming you are!

I expected a compliment.

Compliments discredit a man in the eyes of women.

Did you make that discovery in China? Now to apply that knowledge!

I should try to.

And if you allow me, in your company.

I heard we are to spend this summer together.

His Excellency is asking for you, sir.

Excuse me.

I don’t think he was enjoying our company.

And that is why he left us.

Now, can you imagine, my dear sir,

the doctor forbid me from travelling!

Sit down, if you may.

Here is the five thousand roubles interest till mid-January.

And here is the receipt.

Good.

And regarding those debts…

Please, do deduct your interest very precisely…

Yes, yes…

But supposing I were to need a small sum?

You will receive the other half of the interest in mid-January.

But supposing I were to acquire a part of my capital?

Not for nothing, of course, I’ll gladly pay interest.

How much?

6… 7…?

No, no, sir.

Your capital will bring in 33 percent annually, so I cannot lend it at 6.

But you see, Mr Stanisław…

You can withdraw your capital in mid-January, next year.

God forbid! I won’t withdraw my capital from you,

- not even for 10 years! - I see.

But I have taken your capital for only a year.

Why is that?

Because I can’t tell you what will happen a year from today.

Such opportunities do not occur every year.

Now I see, Mr Stanisław,

that money can spoil even the best of relations.

Forgive me, I’m feeling rather vexed today.

My coat!

Please bring me my hat.

- Are you leaving, sir? - Yes.

I wanted to say goodbye.

Why?

I am leaving for Paris tonight.

Wokulski told me that tonight he is leaving for Paris!

What?

He must have taken offence…

I mentioned the purchase of our house to him.

Good God!

It was you…

Now all is lost…

Who would have thought him so touchy?

I'm talking the silly things of yours...

Excuse me.

What do you want?

You’re leaving.

What is with the sudden change of plans?

My dear friend, sometimes even one word is enough to change plans.

People, even.

Do you want to tell me anything?

Tell you what?

Sir, the train is about to leave.

When will you be back?

I wish I didn’t have to come back.

Tell me frankly, Doctor…

What is your opinion on Stach?

For the past year he has been getting himself into all sorts of troubles.

Hitherto things have gone well with him…

But no one can win every time in their life.

What then?

We may well be witnesses of a tragedy.

Hey-ho! Where is Wokulski?

He’s gone out to looking for a site for the sugar-factory.

Just so!

Do I look so comical?

Unexpected.

When they told me you were a tradesman,

I thought: A cold man, one who estimates the value of trees,

and doesn’t look at the sky because it doesn’t pay interest.

But what do I find?

When did you leave Paris?

A week ago tomorrow.

A lovely city.

Impressive.

That’s where I understood that humans

only appear to be weak and frail.

Tell me, is it a big pleasure

to make a fortune?

No.

But it is nice to spend it.

I wouldn’t know.

I decided to spend a ton of money.

- And? - And so I do it.

And I get bored.

I choose one from ten, I play with him, I daydream…

And then?

I move onto the next one.

Do you do that often?

Every month, give or take. What do you want from me?

That’s love in the age of steam and electricity!

That’s true. It is resembling of a train.

It’s fast, taking on as many people as it can.

I simply put what you said into more concise phrasing.

Are you done?

I am.

Then let me tell you.

When a woman daydreams about perfect love,

you laugh at her disillusions.

But when she’s lost them when she’s older, you say:

you must not love.

You will never be truly loved, for you have lost disillusions!

I am deeply grateful to you.

In a single moment I learned more from you…

From me? You’re imaging things.

Now, kiss me, please.

You really are interesting.

See, Florentyna? It was by this very gate.

Stop the carriage! Why are you this late?

- Please… - The train was late.

Allow me, dearest cousin, to be at your service

throughout the entire day.

It’s been circling the courtyard all morning.

And in the afternoon one of the hens choked on a rock.

- And? - She’s better now.

Pardon my intrusion...

Did her Ladyship need anything?

Have you given thought to that sugar-factory?

Not just yet.

It’s nothing urgent. But have you remembered my request?

Of course.

You need not demolish that rock near the castle, after all.

Leave it there.

There are more people visiting the castle than the cemetery.

Maybe they could read it, give it some thought…?

“Look closely at each other, and trust that God is fair.”

How is Mr Łęcki?

He has regained some of his strength.

He sends his regards.

I’m obliged.

Could I have some salt, cousin?

This is an omen of a fight!

I don’t think we’re in danger of that.

Have you made a promise to never fight?

We made a promise to never say “sorry” to each other.

If I were you, I would lose whatever hopes I had.

One would have to be allowed to hope in the first place…

True happiness to us both.

No one has ever told me in such a way

that their last chance for happiness is in my hands.

How could one resist?

I don’t know.

That is a matter of personal feelings.

That’s the wrong answer.

She’s an angel whom I could trust with my life.

Not just life… My eternal life!

Do you believe in past lives?

Why are you asking?

My only joy lies in the thought that we might meet in another life,

in a better world, where we’re both younger.

Do you know what I felt when I saw you?

Pity.

We were supposed to travel together, but fate has rewarded only you.

You must share half of your impressions with me.

What if they weren’t joyful?

How so?

Perhaps because you were not there with me,

where we were to spend time together.

It is true that you have left quite vexed with me.

I feel obligated

and I understand now the significance of your favour.

My father was to be hurt, and you have saved him.

Perhaps even from death.

One does not forget such things.

I am ready to admit my father was right.

You are a man of great character.

I am also a tradesman.

You don’t have to be. That depends on you.

You rode a hot air balloon.

How does it feel?

Haifa mile up, hardly any distance.

But the view was really magnificent.

The whole of Paris and its surroundings

looked like a relief map.

One thinks one is rising,

then suddenly sees one isn’t moving oneself,

but that the ground is falling rapidly away.

It’s such an unexpected and disappointing sight…

…one feels like jumping out.

The horizon line remains at the same height,

but the ground seems to be concave like a soup plate.

What about the people?

They resemble black droplets, quickly scattering

in multiple directions, dragging their long shadows behind them.

Please, tell me more, keep talking!

Do you know what organic chemistry is?

It’s the chemistry of carbon compounds.

And what do you think about the chemistry of hydrogen compounds?

There is no such thing.

There is.

It gives new products.

New products with very interesting properties.

This is steel, is it not?

Not sodium and potassium?

Surely it is hollow?

So this denies specific gravity?

No.

The laws of nature remain the same.

All that shifts is our perception of things and their structure.

The man I met in Paris

was either a fraud…

or a genius.

It could all be a lie, but…

not necessarily.

This is a question of purpose or death.

I will be greatly saddened.

Saddened?

I need to leave.

Tomorrow?

No, today still.

Before the night falls.

In every place, at every hour,

Where I wept with you, played with you -

I shall forever be with you, Always and everywhere…

And for dinner we had oysters, fish, meat,

and to finish it all off - kasha.

Real kasha. But what kind?

Wait, wait… Tatar kasha.

Not “Tatar”, Tatarian!

Each grain tasted as if it were cooked separately.

You serve it as you would, on silver platters.

And, Your Highness?

How was the fiddler?

He produces excellent sound.

Truly. We will definitely have him play for us.

Oh, yes.

In the hallway.

I’m not going to play your game, my dear monster.

I care about him so, that I’ll do all I can

for him to win Izabela.

Because that madman loves her.

What is this?

Say something!

I don’t have anything to say.

You are jealous.

You know that for a man who loves her, a woman is as holy as an altar.

Right or wrong, that’s how it is.

Now, if a first passer-by approaches that divinity

as if she were a chair,

and treats her accordingly, then…

Do you understand me, madam?

Have I made myself clear?

I am impressed by your madness and wish you all the happiness.

Throw out that medieval troubadour in you,

it’s the XIX century now!

Now, off with you. She’s waiting for you.

You haven’t visited for so long…

Do not say things like that,

or you might give me hope.

Goodness, pray have your hopes, if you are eager to…

Can you say that, Izabela?

Evidently it was meant to be this way.

Please, accept this from me.

A strange gift.

Yet it’s a jewel, still.

A talisman, then?

It’s something which might

engulf the rest of my life in new work.

Perhaps it would be a waste of time, pure madness…

Did you think of leaving us?

No longer ago than yesterday.

Henceforward, all that is left for me is you.

It that be so,

I take you into captivity.

Help me up.

My aunt is feeling rather ill, and wishes to see me.

She would certainly be pleased to make your acquaintance.

- Could you accompany us? - At any time.

I thought you might never make up your mind.

So I have given you a pleasant surprise.

He’s an ideal husband – rich, unusual,

and above all, a man with a heart of a dove.

If he knows you as well as you know him,

then neither of you knows the other well.

Our honeymoon will be all the more agreeable.

Let me wish you…

Wysocki?

What are you doing here?

My horse is dead!

Horse?

Why didn’t you come to us, to Mr Rzecki?

I dared not, sir.

Take this and come by tomorrow.

You’ll receive a note to Prague, you can pick a horse out.

Now, go.

Wait,

what is your brother’s name?

Kasper, sir.

- What station does he live near? - Częstochowa, sir.

Maybe I can arrange for Kasper to be transferred to Skierniewice.

Now, go!

Ham hocks, beef…

Cross yourself, Mr Szprot,

and stop repeating rumours!

I may cross myself if I choose,

but they won’t let you do so!

You’re too serious of a man

to not tell me where you heard this news!

The whole town is talking!

You’re lying! You’re a liar!

Here’s my address.

What do I need that for?

What, you want me to send you some percale by meter?

I demand a satisfaction!

You can dream!

- You’re a scoundrel with no honour! - What?!

Are you talking to me, Mr Rzecki?!

- Indeed I am! - To me?!

I’m not paying my promissory notes!

Calm down…

I send you goods every month!

I’m never coming back here!

You want to know what they’re saying?

That you’re selling the shop.

What would be so wrong with that?

What would be…?

Oh, how could I not have realised.

So you did think about the fact

that a few dozen people will lose their jobs?

That’s not my fault.

What about your obligations?

What obligations?

Obligations to those who call me an exploiter,

or those who steal from me?

There are slanderers everywhere.

But nowhere else are there as many as here!

And do those…

Do those persons for whom you’re selling the shop…

…Will they love you more than those you leave behind?

What if they do?

Are you sure of that?

Has it ever occurred to you

that not only you may well be lied to and used,

but even laughed at and despised?

God damn it! A person can make sacrifices,

but they should never let themselves be misused!

And who is misusing me?!

All the people who don’t respect you as you well deserve.

Carefully…

Over here!

You’re not mad he’s coming with us, are you?

It will be merrier that way!

Right here.

Thank you, kind sir.

Good evening.

- Good evening. - Good evening.

My father is unwell again.

I hope he falls asleep.

He always gets so worried with travelling.

I thought you would never come.

I very nearly didn’t!

I was at Krzeszowski’s.

We played cards from noon to nine!

You lost, of course.

Fortune flees from people like me.

Excuse me.

I must tell you that you won’t cross the threshold of our house.

I won’t come until you send for me.

Ladies love demons.

Have mercy…! I hate you…

Has the precious piece of metal been found?

No, and I am very worried about that.

Good gracious if he ever came to hear of it.

What? That we’ve lost the medallion?

Or that we are looking for it together?

What station is this?

Skierniewice, I think.

One doesn’t jump out of a compartment quite so hastily in front of ladies.

Vodka.

Do you have some paper?

Are you unwell?

Get a piece of paper from your office,

and say at my compartment that there’s a telegram for Wokulski.

- To you? - Yes.

Mr Starski, listen to what I have to say.

You are wrong about yourself.

There’s as much of a demon in you as there is poison in a match…

And let me give you a piece of advice.

In taking advantages of the affections of the fair sex,

traditional caution is better than devilish impudence.

Your boldness unmasks women.

Telegram for Mr Wokulski!

Telegram for Mr Wokulski!

Telegram for Mr Wokulski!

Thank you.

Is it some misfortune?

- I must go back to Warsaw. - Profit – or loss?

Huge profits.

You’d do better to travel on with us until we meet your train.

We can have a few more hours together.

I prefer travelling back on an engine to save precious time.

I would like to speak with you.

If I have offended you in some way, I am ready to give you satisfaction.

No, sir.

If I wanted satisfaction from you,

you’d be dead already, without unnecessary formalities.

Aren’t you going to say goodbye?

Goodbye, Miss Iza.

Now I have learned your true feelings towards me.

It is really goodbye.

Farewell, Miss Iza.

Farewell.

When is the nearest train for Warsaw?

At five, in three quarters of an hour.

Three quarters of an hour…

Kind sir, I would like to…

In three quarters of an hour…

Sir!

What do you want?

I’m Wysocki!

You’re lying!

Wysocki is in Warsaw.

What about the money?

it’s already in the bank.

And you can withdraw it anytime you like, gentlemen.

Business with Suzin is my own issue.

- You will disappoint your partners. - How so?

You have only entered the partnership for only a year.

You asked that the business be conducted in that amount of time.

That is all.

Your attorney is making such a face

as if you’re really intending to leave us.

Do you think I am joking, Prince?

I think you have observed something dishonourable in our agreement.

And am bargaining to force you to sign another one?

Who could we trust?

How about him?

They’re clerks, not financiers.

And what was I?

What you say is very bitter.

I understand your resentment, but perhaps it is misplaced…

Oh, unhappy country.

Country?

It’s a country’s miniature!

People dying of poverty on one side, and of debauchery on the other!

Work is taken from people’s mouths to feed the useless.

A struggle in vain.

For nothing.

Are you angry, old fellow, that I haven’t been to see you for so long?

You know, Stach, I have a notion it is time for me

to join my comrades in the infantry.

They are angry with me for defaulting…

I know whatever you decide will be wise and good, but…

Wouldn’t it be practical for you to get married?

Good God!

I am not forcing you.

It is doctor Szuman who told me you urgently need romance in your life.

I need a change of scene more urgently.

Are you leaving?

Yes. Tonight.

Have you anything in mind?

A suggestion.

Wouldn’t you store your capital with me for around ten percent of interest?

I paid fifteen percent to my partners.

But the times are changing.

I can leave the money with you until October,

but only if you promise that you’ll only keep those

who want to keep working there.

Deal.

Pour us some vodka.

I once heard of two good friends,

one of which lived in Odessa, and the other in Tobolsk.

They have not met for a few years, and missed each other very much.

One time, the one from Tobolsk decided to surprise his friend

and, without telling him, journeyed to Odessa.

When he got there, it turned out the friend wasn’t home,

for he also journeyed to meet his friend – in Tobolsk.

They finally saw each other after a few years.

Do you know what they learned?

That the both of them were in Moscow on the same day.

They lived in the same hotel, in rooms right next to each other.

Fate loves to poke fun at people.

In a green forest, above a stream…

We’ll see what that evening

spent in a merry company resulted in.

You should have invited a girl to accompany you!

Sit down.

Were you feverish today?

- Not yet. - What are you saying? I can tell.

He wanted to do so much… He couldn’t do it in the end.

Dimwit.

What are you saying!

Hold your breath.

I heard that that fool left Moscow a week ago.

Guess where he went after that.

Paris?

To Odessa. And from there to India, then Chile.

So I heard.

If only he wrote us about his plans and whereabouts…

If he finds a fitting place…

If he still has the energy in him…

I hope he can start to live again.

But what then?

What if he has no more life in him,

which at his age would not come as a surprise, then…

Off to bed with you!

Quiet, quiet…!

He’ll come back to the surface yet.

Why did he run away?

What is he running from?

He keeps running and running…