Original subtitles

- Good morning, Mr. Everett. - Good morning, Anna.

Is Mrs. Drummond ready to see me?

Mr. Everett, I let her sleep late. I hope you don't mind.

As long as I can get back to Chicago by 12.

You go in. I'll take her breakfast up right now.

Fine, fine, thank you.

Oh, Anna, there's such a lovely piece

in the paper about poor Mr. Drummond. Listen.

"The funeral yesterday of Paul Drummond

"prominent young business executive saddened many

especially those who remembered his brilliant athletic career--"

Where's the bacon?

In the warming oven.

"Of late years, he was prominently connected

"with the Indian Hill Hunt Club

"which is noted for its splendid athletic records."

'Good morning, Anna.'

It's about time. I thought you'd forgot.

- How's the missus? - She's alright.

Think she'll want anything special today?

I think she'll want us to go on just the way we always do.

'Good morning, Mrs. Drummond.'

Good morning, Anna.

How nice the tray looks.

It's cooked just the way you like it.

You will eat some, won't you?

Thank you, Anna, put it on the table.

Alright, Mrs. Drummond.

I better put some cold water on my face.

Oh, my eyes feel all gritty.

Mr. Everett's downstairs.

It's after ten.

Oh, Anna, you shouldn't have let me sleep so long.

There's such a lot to do.

But, there isn't. Is there?

Nothing to do at all.

What shall I tell Mr. Everett?

I'll eat my breakfast downstairs with him

so we won't waste his time.

Alright, Mrs. Drummond.

Mrs. Drummond will be right down.

- Where are the boys? - I kept them out of the house.

You know how noisy kids are.

Hello, Frank. I'm sorry to be late.

Only a few minutes.

Ana, let's not have quite so many flowers in here.

- Makes such a sickly smell. - 'Yes, Mrs. Drummond.'

Please don't stand, Frank.

It's just that I don't feel like sitting.

- Would you like some coffee? - No, thank you, Jess.

How neat you are, Frank.

That's what comes of being a bachelor all your life.

Paul never picked up anything.

That was always one of my wifely duties.

Hanging up his clothes.

Jess, do you feel equal to going over these papers?

Of course, I do. Please don't baby me.

Is everything alright?

Well, in the main, yes.

Paul left things in as good shape as he could

considering he was ill for so long.

Can the boys still go to school as Paul planned?

Paul took care of that with a trust for their education.

'Of course, that money could be used for other purposes.'

No, I wanna do it the way Paul planned.

The only thing I'd hate would be giving up Anna.

I feel responsible for her. She's been with me so long.

Well, you can keep Anna.

But I suggest you let Dave and Mary go.

I'll do whatever you say.

Jess, this has nothing to do with the money end of it.

But don't you think you'll find it difficult to keep on here

'so many memories?'

Memories aren't as painful as people say.

This came four days ago.

Paul sent it special delivery.

It's for you.

Frank, I...I wanna read it to you.

You were fond of Paul.

"My darling Jess

"it seems strange to be writing this to you..

"...for you'll be reading it when I'm no longer with you.

"We've shared so much together all these years..

"...that I can't think of you without me.

"Bring up the boys to stand alone.

"Don't let people dictate what you shall do or shall not do.

"Because it would be impossible for you to do anything..

"...which is not fine and decent and true.

"As far as my part of your future is concerned

"I read a poem somewhere once that said

"Better by far you should forget and smile.

"Than you should remember than be sad.

"Thanks, Jess, for being my wife.

Your loving but unpoetic husband...Paul."

'Alright, leave it there, you wanna race?'

- 'Beat you to the door.' - 'Bet you can't.'

Beat you, beat you, beat you.

- Oh, hello, Uncle Frank. - Good morning, Uncle Frank.

Hello, Kim.

- Hi - Keith.

Oh, hello, mother, we didn't know you were here.

We thought you'd still be asleep.

Not much chance of that with you two.

We kinda expected you down to watch us swim.

I had some business to talk over.

You going to the ball game?

When do I get to go to one?

- I'd sure like to see it. - Me too. Cubs vs. Dodgers.

Now, now, boys. Not today.

Gee, I forgot. We're sorry.

Why don't you go if you want to?

- Today? Well, grandma said-- - That you should stay with me?

- We like to be with you, mom. - Thanks.

I like to be with you too.

But we've lots of time to be together

and ball games don't happen every day.

Go on, you can tell me about it afterwards just like with dad.

You? Why, you don't know what team Joe DiMaggio played for.

You see? Say, can we go pretty soon?

Start right now. There's not enough gas to drive, you know.

We'd rather go on the train anyway.

Come on, Keith, if you're coming.

Okay. You sure you don't mind, mom?

No, run along. Have fun.

- 'Come on, Keith!' - Okay, I'm comin'.

You've done a fine job of those boys.

It was two-thirds Paul.

Couldn't you please stay for lunch?

I wish I could. I have a board meeting at 12.

I must be getting back.

Could you join me for supper tonight?

I'd be happy to come out here again.

Thank you. This is our regular night at mother's.

- Promise me you won't worry. - I'll try not to.

If you have any problems at all

no matter how trivial they might seem... please call me.

I'll call you anyway, Frank.

- By the way, what about a cab? - No, thanks.

I think I'll walk. The exercise will do me good.

It's mother.

Oh, dear. I'm not dressed.

Well, you look perfectly dressed to me.

Oh, not to mother.

Bye, Jess.

- Good morning, Frank. - Good morning, Mrs. Kimball.

- How's my poor little girl? - She's fine.

There she is. Jessica, come out and see Mrs. Thompson for a bit.

I see Frank got you up.

I know. Anna let me sleep too long.

- Good morning, Mrs. Thompson. - Good morning, my dear.

I hope you don't mind my telling you

what a lovely service it was.

Dr. Burrows spoke so beautifully, I thought

and the church was simply exquisite.

Yes, yes. It was very well arranged, Stella.

You might recall, it's only yesterday.

Thank you very much for telling me, Mrs. Thompson.

Wouldn't you like to come inside with mother?

No. Ralph's taking her to the Ration Board.

She's having a perfectly fearful time.

Her car only gets nine miles to the gallon.

They're just doing everything they can to break our spirit.

- It's pure class prejudice. - Are you leaving now, Frank?

Uh, Ralph will take you down to the station.

Ralph, drop Mr. Everett at the station.

But, Mary, I don't really have to go to the Ration Board.

Now, Stella, don't be spineless. Stick to your rights.

This is still America, I hope.

I'll call you later about my income tax, Frank.

Come, dear.

My poor child, you look simply awful.

You'd have done better to have remained in bed.

Speaking of bed, you shouldn't wander in a dressing gown.

- What must Frank think? - Oh, mother, I'm fully clothed.

You're so innocent, you don't seem to understand

that other people's minds don't run in the same way.

Frank's a gentleman of course, but he's also a man.

I stopped by for more black stockings.

I got the perfect veil for you.

You'll need several, of course. Where are you going?

We can talk while I'm dressing.

You allow Anna to walk over you. There's dust on this banister.

Really, mother, what time have any of us had to dust banisters?

- Hello, grandma. - We gotta have some money, mom.

Go and ask Anna for some change.

- Where are you going? - 'Ball game.'

On this day?

I should think you'd be ashamed, boys.

- Mother, please don't. - It's okay, mom. We're sorry.

Come on, Kim, let's feed the dogs.

Allowing them to go to a ball game.

They like it. They always went with Paul.

People like to do a great many things they don't do, Jessica.

They were dying to go.

It isn't a question of their wanting to go.

It's the way it would've looked.

They're too young to have their lives changed by Paul's death.

They've adjusted themselves very well so far.

Going to the game was part of that adjustment.

I would call it wanting in feeling.

You don't know boys. You only had a girl.

I'm sure I never interfered with the normal pattern of your life.

Well, this is the only black thing in here. It's wool.

You'll have to hurry and decide

which of your summer things you want dyed.

I don't wanna wear black.

Not wear black? But you must.

- Have you forgotten-- - Don't say that, mother.

My dear child, you are a widow.

Nobody understand better than I what that means.

You must learn to accept it.

People don't have to wear it anymore.

Our kind of people wear black.

Please don't insist on it, mother.

I know you've always worn it. I suppose you like it--

How can you say such a thing?

Have you no respect for the memory of your father?

It has been 25 years.

I shall wear it until the day I die.

I don't understand you at all.

Knowing how deeply I feel about a thing like this.

Quarreling with me on this day of all days.

I see.

I'm sorry, mother. I can't wear black.

I'll do anything you want, but not that.

- Giving in to whims. - Alright, call it a whim.

A psychologist would call it a phobia 'cause that's what it is.

I've learned to loathe it. The very thought stifles me.

It's right for you, perhaps, but it isn't for me.

Please, let's not discuss it anymore.

I'm sorry I blew up, mother.

Won't you stay here for lunch?

I think not.

Getting angry over such a small thing.

Obviously, I'm a disturbing influence.

Naturally, I expect you and the boys to dinner tonight

at the usual time.

Yes, mother.

Afternoon, Mrs. Drummond, what can I do for you?

Hello, Al. Have you any weenies and cold ham?

At this time of day? Oh, no.

Oh, Kim is so crazy about them.

We're having a farewell picnic. They leave for school tomorrow.

Will he settle for bologna and cold ham?

Alright, a pound each.

Pound? You'll have enough leftover for a regiment.

You don't know my boys.

Will the boys make the team at Northwestern

like Mr. Drummond?

Kim will, I think.

Twenty four points, a dollar 38.

- 'There you are.' - Oh. Thanks, Al.

Oh, just a moment. I'm in this for a living, you know.

- Oh, I'm terribly sorry. - Thank you.

- Tell the kids goodbye for me. - I will.

- Why, Jess, hello. - 'Hello, Riette.'

- Yes, dear. How are you? - Hello, Baby.

What have you been doing with yourself?

I've been giving all my extra time to Nurses Aide.

Have you heard the latest dirt?

I'm in a hurry, Baby. I've to pick up the boys--

You've got to hear it. You'll die.

Come over here, dear, and let me tell you.

Phyllis is back from Reno and she's playing around like mad.

We won't speak to her if she keeps it up.

Poor Phyll. She's on the rebound.

Poor Phyll, my eye. She was a fool to divorce Jack.

She's gonna find herself a drug in the market with those kids.

Tactful Tillie, we always call her.

I'm in an awful hurry. I'll see you soon.

Hey, Jess, you come right over here

and let me have a good look at you.

Hello, George. I just saw Riette in the market.

That's right. Bring my wife into the conversation.

- You're a sight for sore eyes. - I'm a sight, alright.

I'm in a hurry. I've to pick up the boys.

You got a second to talk to an old friend. The gang misses you.

- I've missed you all too. - There's a remedy for that.

Stop by for a drink tonight like old times.

- I can't tonight. - You haven't changed.

I look a thousand years old, but you're sweet to say so.

You always look good to me, baby.

Come on, let me go. I really have to run.

Alright, but you call us real soon or we'll call you.

Alright, George.

Guess what we're having for our picnic. Bologna and cold ham.

Oh, boy, I could eat a bear.

- Angel cake too? - Mm-hmm. With frosting.

I fixed you some baked summer squash with cheese on it.

Again?

Having a victory garden means eating what grows in it.

I wish it had been the squash that died instead of the peas.

Look, there's somebody in the driveway.

Hey, look.

Hi, everybody.

Hello, Mrs. Drummond. We've been waiting here for ages.

We wanted the boys to come to the club for a going-away party.

'Hello, Kim. Hello, Keith. I've got a houseguest with me.'

She's terribly cute. You'll be nuts about her, Keith.

She's a little older than I am, but she'll be right for you.

I know you don't mind having Bill Hawks.

We're using the Hawks' membership.

Dad said I've been running up such awful bills for ginger ale.

Gee, it sounds terrific, Gretchen

but we're having a party here with mother.

- Oh. - Oh, nonsense.

Run along if you want to.

- What's her name? - Penny Boardman.

She's absolutely darling and she's gonna stay a whole month.

Oh, please come.

Well, maybe we can ditch Droopy after supper.

- Is it okay, mom? - Go ahead, have fun.

Gosh, that's marvelous. I mean, it's just super.

Thanks, Mrs. Drummond. Come on, Kim.

- You sure it's alright, mom? - Of course. I'll go to a movie.

Bye.

- Bye. - Bye.

- Bye, mom. - 'Bye-bye.'

Goodbye, Kim. Don't forget to write.

Fat chance of me forgetting.

- You'll be home for Christmas? - Oh, sure.

- Bye, Penny. - So long.

- 'Wasn't it swell?' - 'You bet.'

Oh, mom. We thought you'd gone to the show.

No, I was too tired.

- Did you have fun? - I'll say.

We sure pulled a fast one on Droopy.

But he's gonna be here and you're not.

Bet you wish you weren't going away.

Droopy? Gretchen thinks he's a pill.

Oh, yeah?

You're not sorry to be leaving...them, are you?

Who's sorry?

It's still not too late to cancel your tuition.

Ah, gee, I'm glad we're going to dad's old school.

What's the matter, mom?

Nothing. Go on, go to bed.

You have to be up bright and early.

Okay, mom, bright and early. Goodnight.

- Goodnight, mom. - Goodnight.

Mom, did you say there are winter sports at this school?

Oh, yes, it's in Massachusetts.

Boy, I can hardly wait to get there.

Wanna bet if I make the ice hockey team?

Now, don't forget, boys. Dad got good grades too.

He wasn't just interested in athletics.

I haven't forgotten.

Don't worry. He won't be ashamed of us.

- Here's your car, gentlemen. - We'd better get on.

Oh, don't go yet. There's still time. Remember your promise?

- About writing? Sure. - How about you?

Of course, mom, I'll write, but a fella has a lot to do.

- 'All aboard!' - Bye, mom. Come on, Keith.

Alright. Give me a chance, will you?

Goodbye, mom.

Goodbye.

'Board!'

Wait a minute. Wait a minute! Wait, wait!

Wait a minute, wait a minute.

- For the two little boys. - Okay, lady.

Well, there they go. The birds have left the nest.

Oh, mother, please don't start sentimentalizing.

Can't a person say anything to you these days?

Tea with me somewhere? Gotta talk to you.

No. I'm meeting Ginna at the Blackmore.

This is most unpleasant.

Having to catch my daughter on the run on a station platform

of all places, when I have something important to say.

- What is it? - Now, you needn't sigh.

It's a thought for your future.

Frank had dinner with me last night.

He's such a sweet fellow, such a genuine, splendid character.

What are you getting at, mother?

Before I go South, since you refuse to go with me

I want to know that my child's future is assured.

And I think that next to Paul

Frank is the best man for you.

How can you bring up such a subject at this time?

I have a feeling that Frank would like nothing better.

What I think, apparently, makes no difference.

May I remind you that at your age

you can't be too particular.

I don't wanna discuss it. I mean it.

We'll discuss it in the taxi. I'll drop you at the Blackmore.

I'd rather walk. It's such a lovely fall day.

Honestly, there are times I could shake you.

- Of all the stubborn-- - Alright, I'll ride with you.

Jess. Jess.

Ginna.

I just wanna get my bearings a second.

- You look tired, Jess. - Mm.

- I needed that. Two more. - Yes, ma'am.

Did the boys get off all in one piece?

Yes, they've gone.

Ginna, isn't it awful the way things happen

between parents and children?

You bring them into the world, they're yours.

They depend on you for everything.

But so soon, it changes.

They start to pull away and you have to sit tight and let them.

If you don't, it ends up like mother and me.

You were certainly a model child.

I've been rotten to her lately.

I could kill myself for snapping at her.

I know how lonely she is, but--

She's got to accept it

just as you've had to accept the boys leaving.

I'm accepting it.

But I'm not liking it. I can tell you that.

Phyllis.

I haven't seen her since she got back from Reno.

I'm afraid Phyllis is taking her freedom a little too seriously.

Baby told me about her.

Oh, Ginna, women on the loose can be such a mess.

I know.

How do I know I won't be like that in a year or so?

Ever since I was 17, Paul's been my entire life.

Before that it was mother. Recently, it's been the boys.

Now what do I do when I have to start out from scratch?

I'm scared, Ginna.

Scared to death.

Well, look who's here.

- Hello, George. - Oh, hello.

I saw you two jabbering. You need a man to liven the party.

We were discussing serious problems.

I'll see that you get over that.

- Going back to Lake, Jess? - Yes.

I had to drive in town. I'll give you a free ride.

You know what Riette says about your driving.

I promise you I won't go over 30 miles an hour.

If you can't take the word of an old friend

what's the world come to?

Why don't you? Anything's better than the train. Even George.

You see, you're safe, no bones broken.

- Thank you, George. - You don't wanna go in yet.

- Have a cigarette. - Uh-uh.

- Going to be in later on? - Yes, I suppose so.

Riette's laid up with one of her headaches.

I'll have to be at home, but I can say I've to go on business.

- Well, George-- - I've been crazy about you.

Don't be silly, George, you must be tight.

Come on, grow up, you're a big girl now.

Let me go, I mean it.

I promise you, nobody needs to know anything.

They wouldn't suspect you anyway.

Let me go, George!

No hard feelings, Jess.

Lincoln, 24571.

Lake Forest, 31966.

Hello, Ginna?

Ginna, can I come in and see you? Now.

I've got to. I can't stand it here alone.

Thanks, Ginna.

Come in, Jess.

I hope you didn't mind my phoning.

Of course not. Cary was asleep, I was reading.

I have the kettle boiling for some tea. You want some?

I don't know what's the matter with me.

I seem to be going to pieces.

Oh, what am I gonna do, Ginna? What am I going to do?

I've tried, you know I have. I've done everything.

I worked every day at the hospital.

But when the day is over and I go up to that empty room

the house is closing down on me.

Everything's closing down on me.

Mother and having the boys gone.

What's the matter with me, Gin?

I can't seem to stop this crying.

Drink this, Jess.

I'm sorry, Gin, it's awful to come here like this.

I'm so sorry.

Stop saying that.

If you don't get out of that house

and away from your mother you will end up in a sanitarium.

Oh, Gin, I've never been that ill in my life.

It isn't only the body that breaks down, Jess.

The mind can go too, you know.

It just makes me sick the way you've let everyone

manage you all your life.

You've got to start being yourself for a change.

Circumstances have altered your whole life.

You're no longer Mrs. Paul Drummond.

You're Jessica Drummond. But your life's not finished.

'It's happened to thousands and thousands of women'

'all through the ages. And now it's happened to you.'

Listen, Jess, Cary and I are going to Los Angeles

on business and you're going with us.

After the business part is over

we have the loan of a cabin at Lake Tahoe.

There'll be snow by then. It'll do us all good.

If I go anywhere, I should go South with mother.

Alright, go South with your mother.

I, for one, am not gonna make any decisions for you.

Nobody's asking you to make decisions for me.

I'm the one who has to face mother with it.

Well, I'm glad to see you can stick up for yourself.

I've been a beast to you, ducky, but I'm crazy about you.

Please go with us. We could have such fun.

- Alright, I'll go. - Good.

Now let's put you to bed before you change your mind.

Hey!

'Hey, you!'

Hey, come here!

'Hey!'

'Woo-hoo!'

Hey!

Well?

- I, uh.. - Oh.

Anyone who can do that to a ski

hasn't any business wandering alone in the woods.

Sorry to bother you. It's awfully stupid of me.

But I've been going in circles for such a long time.

- I don't-- - Uh-uh. One thing at a time.

Oh, well, I'm staying in Grant cabin

and I know it's somewhere around here.

- But I can't seem to get my-- - Not so fast, please.

Now, to begin with

you say you're staying at the Grant cabin.

- Yes. - Alright.

Now, take a look down to those trees.

No, further over to the right. Way over.

I can see that you're a tenderfoot alright

I can see the cabin.

Oh! Oh, I do see it now.

Well, good. Lesson number one.

Now, lesson number two is how to get there.

Oh, I can get there now, sorry, now that I have my directions.

I'm sorry to have spoiled that wonderful hill for you.

Now, just a moment. It's a good mile.

In half an hour it'll be too dark to see clearly.

Then you'll be wandering in circles again.

I'm perfectly able to go

straight down through those trees.

Really? Well, you appointed me your guardian.

I intend to stay so until I see you safely inside that cabin.

Now, the first thing is to get rid of those skis. Hurry up.

Yes.

Now, you can ride on the back of mine.

I can't. I'm just learning. I'll upset your balance.

Don't be frightened. I'm not an amateur. Now come on. Hurry up.

- Oh. - Get on.

Now, hold on.

No. I said hold on. This way.

- Oh. - That's it.

Now just relax and let me do the thinking for a few minutes.

A-ah! A-ah!

Lesson number three.

When it's a question of breaking your leg or losing your hat

just forget the hat.

'Now look at that.'

I know it's gonna be dark before we get to that cabin.

Cary! Cary, I think I see someone.

'Ginna! Hiya, Ginna.'

Jess! Oh, Jess!

Oh, Cary, thank heaven she's here.

No need for you to get pneumonia.

- I'll be alright. - I knew she'd turn up.

Oh, honestly, Cary, sometimes I could brain you.

- Darling, I've been frantic. - We had a slight accident.

I was sending Cary to find you no matter what happened to him.

Oh, by the way, this is...oh.

Oh, I'm sorry. I don't even know your name.

Major Landis. Scott Landis.

- Cary Abbott. - Glad to know you.

- This is my Frau. - Hello.

- How do you do? - Come on. Sit down.

Let's all have a hot rum. You look frozen.

- Thanks. I will. - Stationed around here, major?

No. I had a ten days leave.

I came here to catch up with my skiing.

- You'd spent the last ten-- - I didn't say the last ten.

They got me sitting behind a desk.

- I'm not used to it. - My tongue's hanging out.

My winter sports are intimately

tied up with hot rum. Excuse me.

Now, just for the record, what's your name?

Jessica Dru...Drummond.

They usually call me Jess.

I like Jessica better.

Jess reminds me of a particularly stubborn mule

I once had trouble with in Texas.

You...you seem to have been around.

Oh, yes, we mule skinners get around quite a bit.

Uh, allow me, it's..

Oh, thank you.

And now, shall we start all over again, Miss Drummond?

Mrs. Drummond.

Oh. Is your husband here with you?

My husband passed away this spring.

- I'm sorry. - 'Well, here they are.'

- 'I hope they're good.' - Well, thanks.

- Major. - Thank you.

To Jess' safe return.

And to the St. Bernard who found her.

Wake up, lazy bones. You're a punk hostess.

I was only resting my eyes.

She never will admit she's been asleep.

- Come on, let's go to bed, huh? - Alright.

- Don't get up. Goodnight. - Goodnight.

Landis, are you gonna try to get back to your cabin tonight?

If you don't mind, I'd like to bunk here on the couch.

Jess, see that he has enough blankets.

See you in the morning. Goodnight.

Goodnight.

- Well-- - You're not sleepy are you?

I oughta be. I haven't had so much exercise in weeks.

Did you good.

I hate to think of leaving here in four days.

- No, I shouldn't say that. - 'Why not?'

I have responsibilities.

I have two boys, 12 and 14.

I suppose that's my cue to say you look too young

to have boys 12 and 14.

You have an odd way of catching people on everything.

You expect stock phrases?

- No. No, I don't at all. - Oh, confess it.

You've been hermetically single most of your life, haven't you?

Well, I suppose I have in a way.

- Do you like it? - No, not entirely.

But when you're used to a thing--

It's time to change.

You're very self-sufficient, aren't you?

Well...I never even gave it a thought.

You see, I've never had much chance to express me.

'Even when I went to Europe, I went with mother and--'

I know.

You stayed at all correct hotels and spoke French religiously

while you were in Paris.

Oh, yes. I've seen hundreds of people like you.

All over the world.

Guidebook in hand

walking ruthlessly from cathedral to cathedral.

Uh...yes, I'm afraid you're right.

You know, I like you...very much.

Now I suppose you're going to rush off to bed.

Yes, I will.

Goodnight, Jessica.

Goodnight, Major Landis.

In case you're cold, Major Landis.

Well, we're all packed.

I hope Jess finishes hers in time.

- Mm, it must be 30 below 0. - 'Mm-hmm.'

Wasn't it wonderful that Scott happened along

to give Jess such a good time?

Mm-hmm.

He's very attractive.

- I think he really likes her. - Mmm.

Jess really is the wife type.

- She needs someone. - Yeah.

Do you suppose he's the right man for her?

- Talk to me. - What are you mumbling about?

Ah, I was thinking about Scott and Jess.

Oh, now listen, my pet. Stop thinking about them.

For once, keep your fingers out of the pie.

You're a hard-boiled mug.

And you are a matchmaking nuisance.

- Goodnight, my pet. - Goodnight.

Oh, they turned out their light.

This nice warm room makes me realize how cold it is outside.

- Me for the fire. - Me for that bottle of bourbon.

Wasn't it a wonderful day?

I've never seen a ghost mining town before.

That view of Donner Lake through the trees.

My favorite was Donner Monument by the moonlight.

Why do people live in the city?

- I could stay here forever. - Shh.

Oh, yeah, I forgot all about them.

Here.

Just enough for a nightcap. Cheerio.

You've made a new woman out of me. I feel like a kid.

You look like one.

Why did you do that?

We were getting along so well together.

I thought it was a fitting ending to a swell four days.

- I meant what I said. - I don't think you did.

How many times do you have to be told?

'Just exactly what is your game?'

Does everyone have to have a game?

I don't know what it's all about.

You admit that we get along well

and we've spent most of our days together.

You're grown up. Or aren't you?

I'm afraid we don't understand each other.

I guess we haven't from the beginning. You better go.

Alright.

Goodbye, Jessica.

Be sure and lock your door.

Oh, Mrs. Drummond, I surely thought

you'd eat something tonight.

Anna bring in a plate and eat with me.

Why, Mrs. Drummond, what's the matter?

Please, I want you to.

Alright, if you want me to.

I'll answer it, Anna.

Why, Frank, how nice to see you.

I was out this way. I took a chance.

Thank you. You're in time for dinner.

- You needn't bother with me. - Nonsense, take off your coat.

I'll put these in water right after we eat.

- They're lovely. - You're lovely too.

Anna! Anna, look who's here.

- Sit down. - Good evening, Mr. Everett.

I certainly am glad you came.

Thank you, Anna.

It's certainly nice having you make a fuss over me.

I'm terribly glad to see you.

You have a way of making people feel at home.

You really look better, Jess.

I'm glad now you went away on your trip.

Didn't you want me to go?

I wanted you to stay here so I could look after you.

That's sweet of you, Frank.

You've no idea how nice this is sitting here with you.

It's nice to have you here.

It's no secret how I feel about you.

We know the same people, we like the same things.

I think the boys like me.

Excuse me. I'll go.

Hello?

Hello, Ginna.

Cary and I are at Georgian Room. Guess who's here?

Scott Landis. He's with some other people.

Not really?

Frank's here.

I'd love to.

Maybe.

Bye.

That was Ginna. She and Cary are in the Georgian Room.

Oh, how are they? I haven't seen them for some time.

They're fine.

They, uh...suggested we join them.

Well, would you like to?

Oh, if you'd like to.

- It might be fun. - Alright.

You finish your dinner, I'll hurry and change my dress.

- 'Well, you look fine.' - Oh, this old thing?

Oh, no, I wanna look glamorous.

Listen, Jess, if you'd rather not dance..

Oh, I'm sorry.

I guess I'm just a little out of practice.

Let's sit down.

- Any success? - No, not yet.

- Don't give up hope. - What are you two up to?

Private monkey business, no doubt.

She has something on the fire, but it still isn't definite.

Oh, don't pay any attention to...her.

Well, what would you like to drink with dinner?

I said, what would you like to drink?

Oh, anything you want to order.

- Hello. - Well, hello.

Hello, major.

This is like old home week. Nice to be back.

Major Landis, meet Frank Everett.

- How do you do? - Join us for a drink?

No thanks. Won't you sit down?

I'm entertaining an old girlfriend and her new husband.

Sounds a little complicated.

On the contrary, I get along well

with the husbands of my old girlfriends.

And by the way, if we hadn't parted so hurriedly

I could've explained that I was gonna be

stationed her for sometime. I'll give you a ring.

'What about giving me your telephone number?'

It's in the book.

Well, thanks. Nice to have seen you again.

Goodbye.

Well, here's..

Hello?

Oh.

No, really, I subscribe to so many magazines already.

No, thank you. I have no use for another cookbook.

Goodbye.

That was somebody trying to sell something.

Why don't you let me continue with this

and you go to the Hawks' for bridge?

It's no fun going around with the old crowd anymore.

They're all very much married? And I feel dreadfully out of it.

You oughta go out more. "All work and no play makes Jack.."

You go this time. It's never anything important.

'Hello.'

'Yes.'

Yes.

This time it's a Major Landis.

Oh!

Yes, he's the man I met at Lake Tahoe.

Hello.

Well, I never thought you'd take the trouble to look for it.

How are you, Scott?

Oh, I'm working for the Red Cross. What are you doing?

Don't work too hard.

Yes, I, uh...I can meet you tomorrow night.

At the Lake side? Six.

I'll be there. Goodbye, Scott.

Well, what did he want?

I'm having dinner with him tomorrow night.

You going someplace fancy?

I'm meeting him at his apartment.

Oh, of course, we'll go directly out somewhere.

Now, what are you grinning about?

I'm just thinking what Mrs. Kimball would say.

Is Major Landis in? Mrs. Drummond calling.

- What's the name? - Mrs. Drum...Mrs. Drummond.

Oh, yes, he's expecting you. Room 503.

Thank you.

Five, please.

Jessica, what a surprise.

- How are you, my dear? - Good evening, Mrs. Thompson.

- I haven't seen you for months. - My, but you look well.

What have you been doing with yourself?

- Oh, I went away for a while. - Has mother returned yet?

Oh, yes. I mean, no.

She's still South. But I expect her back any--

- Hello, Jessica. - Hello.

I just stopped to say hello to Mrs. Thompson.

Well, it's lovely to see you again.

Goodbye.

'Going down?'

What a nice place you've..

Ha, it isn't mine.

Belongs to a friend of mine who has loaned it to me.

- Oh. - Who was that dragon?

A friend of mother's.

Oh, now I can understand that startled-fawn look.

Quite a co-incidence my seeing you that night.

- You have a nice time? - Very.

I rather like that Frank Everett. Seems like a nice guy.

He's not only a nice guy, but--

But a gent.

I can't imagine you having anything in common with him.

Ho-ho.

I don't mean that the way you took it.

You're what my old mother would've called a caution.

How is that?

If you hadn't been poured into that icy mold of conventionality

you'd be a good egg.

You're gonna hatch one of these days.

Anybody ever tell you you had a nice grin?

Uh-uh.

Let's sit on the couch. It's by far the coziest place.

Sit down. It's not a booby trap.

I thought perhaps it was.

There.

Ahem, tell me, what did you do today?

Oh, the usual thing.

But how could it possibly interest you?

Oh, but it does. Very much.

Well, I went to the Red Cross and rolled bandages.

And then I did my shopping and then I had

lunch with some friends.

Lunch? What did you have for lunch?

Consomme and chef's salad, that's all.

Mm-hmm. That's all?

- Well, black coffee. - No desert?

No, I never eat desert.

I notice you haven't finished you martini either.

Well, I, I would, if you'd let me go.

Oh, well, that's very easy to remedy.

One, two, three and drink.

Landis, make a note of this.

You mustn't waste your good pre-war gin on Mrs. Drummond.

Now, let's see. What were we talkin' about?

Oh, yes. You were having lunch with some friends.

I guess I've said all there is to say about that.

Uh-huh.

Why don't you sit back and relax?

You're not a very relaxing person.

Are these a family heirloom?

No, I mean, yes. They, uh, belong to my mother.

They do? Your mother. Well, well.

She's South.

She goes every year.

I usually go with her, but--

I'm looking forward to meet your mother.

Well, I-I'm not sure you'd like mother.

She's, uh...old school.

Well, I couldn't have imagined that.

It's a cute hat.

I like the way you do your hair too.

- Warm in here, isn't it? - Is it?

Well, with all this talk of chef's salad and consomme

I'm beginning to get a bit hungry.

- Would you like dinner now? - Oh, yes, I'd love it.

Alright.

Any, uh...special place you'd like to eat?

No, any place. Any place at all.

- Any place but here. - Uh-huh.

Uh-huh.

'I'm amazed at you.'

'Have you gone completely out of your mind?'

'Please don't use that tone with me. I'm not a child.'

'You force me to treat you like one.'

You refused to go with me.

Then you rashly on your bank account

to go on some sorta junket with Ginna Abbott.

And with what a result? The whole town is talking.

Nonsense, a few gossipy old women led by Mrs. Thompson.

She did it for your own good.

The idea of going to a strange man's apartment.

Not even someone we know.

And from what I gather

a man with a somewhat unsavory reputation.

Major Landis is a gentlemen.

Frank liked him. So did Ginna and Cary.

Ginna and Cary would. Birds of a feather.

This is too ridiculous. I'm 33 years old.

And I've done nothing to be ashamed of.

- Naturally, you're a Kimball. - Then what are you upset about?

It's the principle of the thing.

You're a woman alone. You have to be twice as circumspect.

The world allows considerable liberty to wives

it has never allowed to widows.

I notice, for instance, you're no longer wearing black.

Nor do I intend to wear it again.

That's entirely your affair.

If you wont think of yourself

at least remember your duty to Paul.

Keep Paul's name outta this. I've had enough.

I'm sick to think I've taken it for so long.

- 'Jessica?' - You talked about duty.

It's your duty to tell those women to shut up.

You talk about wanting to help me.

But what you really want is to drive me into your ivory tower.

I won't allow you to, ever.

Jessica, come back here. Where are you going?

To give those old biddies something to gossip about.

- Is Major Landis in? - Just a moment, please.

- He's in, but he's busy. - I'll go up anyway.

But, madam, he doesn't wish to be disturbed.

- Five, please. - Yes, ma'am.

- Hello, Scott. - Well, hello.

Oh, I'm out of breath.

- I hope I didn't disturb you. - No, not all.

I happened to be going by, so I thought I'd stop in.

- What's this? - Martini, of course.

- Expecting somebody? - No, no.

Took a little time out to have one.

- Do you mind? - Help yourself.

You know, it's amazing how one can learn to like martinis.

It's an acquired taste, like anchovies.

Uh-huh.

Well...here we are, aren't we?

Yeah. What's next on the program?

Oh, I don't know.

- I suppose it's your move. - Alright.

As long as I'm supposed to be a partner in the crime..

...supposing you tell me what it's all about?

Or don't you want to tell me?

Not particularly.

I suppose you know anyway. You know almost everything.

The chicken's beginning to hatch maybe, huh?

- Uh-huh. - Well, good.

I know I'm acting like a fool.

I hope you'll forgive me, Scott.

You're going home. Right now.

Yes, Scott.

As a matter of fact, the reason I stopped by

was to ask you to drop in Christmas Eve.

Oh, sure, sure.

Honestly, I mean it. I want you to meet my kids.

- I'd like to. - You will come?

Yes, but I'll be a little bit late.

That's alright.

We don't start trimming the tree until after dinner.

Well, that's fine. I'll be there, reindeer and all.

- Goodbye, Scott. - Goodbye..

Oh, stop grinning.

Well, I see I'm in the right place.

- I'm Major Landis. - Oh, glad to know you. Come in.

- May we take your hat and coat? - Thanks.

Mom, it's Major Landis.

You just missed a swell dinner. Roast goose.

Maybe I can get a drumstick later?

Ha, with Uncle Cary around, fat chance.

Hello, Scott. Merry Christmas.

I'm sorry I'm late. They ran in a meeting.

At last I see the gem in its proper setting.

Do you like it? I guess the boys introduced themselves.

- I'm Kim and he's Keith. - Hello again.

Oh, I almost forgot. I got something for you.

Why, Scott. Presents? You're slipping.

Isn't that what people usually do at Christmas?

Give each other presents? It's straight from the five-and-dime.

- Merry Christmas, major. - Merry Christmas to you.

- Glad to see you. - Nice to see you.

- You missed the first round. - Thank you.

This is Anna.

- How do you do? - Glad to meet you.

I'm sure.

I always say there's no fool like an old fool.

I must get back to my kitchen.

Oh, Anna, let me help you. All those pots and pans..

Nobody's gonna be messin' around in my kitchen.

- Not while I'm in it. - Anna's a little high.

She even forgot her present.

Hurry, drink her down so you can catch up.

This tastes even better than the hot rum at Lake Tahoe.

Darling, how about another one for your long-suffering wife?

You know what happened to Anna.

Let's turn off this canned music

and get some real stuff from Jess?

Oh, no, I haven't touched the piano for a year.

Go ahead, mom. Play "Silent Night, Holy Night."

That was dad's favorite.

Alright, Keith. But I'm not sure I can get through it.

Come on, Jess, please, it'll sound good to me.

- I hope so. - This is like old times.

We're gonna all sing, are we?

I hope my pet carries a tune better than last year.

Well, you asked for it. Here it is.

♪ Silent night ♪

♪ Holy night ♪

♪ All is calm ♪

♪ All is bright ♪

♪ Round yon Virgin Mother and Child ♪

♪ Holy Infant so tender and mild ♪

♪ Sleep in heavenly peace ♪

♪ Sleep in heavenly peace ♪

♪ Silent night ♪

♪ Holy night ♪

♪ Shepherds quake at the sight ♪

♪ Radiant beams from Thy holy face ♪

♪ With the dawn of redeeming grace ♪

♪ Jesus Lord at Thy birth ♪

♪ Jesus Lord at Thy birth.. ♪♪

- Oh, hello, grandma. - Hello, grandma.

- Merry Christmas. - Hello, nice boys.

- Merry Christmas. - Why don't you come inside?

No, I've no intention of going in there. I can't stay.

Here are some presents for you.

- Thanks a lot. Swell. - You can exchange them.

I see so little of you I don't know what you like.

We'll like them. Why don't you come inside?

- We're having fun. - No, I can't stay.

- Major Landis is in there. - Major Landis?

- Not really. - What do you mean, grandma?

- Never mind what I mean. - Are you coming in after all?

Well, since it's Christmas Eve, perhaps I really should go in.

Okay, come on.

♪ Jingle bells, jingle bells Jingle all the way.. ♪♪

- Look what Santa Claus brought. - Mother, Merry Christmas.

- Hello, Mrs. Kimball. - Merry Christmas, Mrs. Kimball.

I drove by to deliver my presents.

Don't let me disturb your fun. Merry Christmas, Virginia.

- Merry Christmas. - And you, Frank.

- And you, Cary. - Merry Christmas.

Mother, this is Major Landis. Scott, my mother, Mrs. Kimball.

- How do you do? - How do you do?

- I've heard a lot about you. - It's time for the presents.

- I'll say it is. - Kids, just one a piece.

Now, Jessica, I want to talk to Major Landis.

Yes, mother.

I understand you met my little girl in California?

- Just where are you stationed? - Chicago, temporarily.

Isn't that rather a coincidence?

First in California, now in Chicago?

Entirely a coincidence I assure you.

I might be out of the country next week. Who knows?

Are you a friend of the Abbotts?

Oh, no, no. Your daughter introduced me to them.

And where may I ask did you meet her then?

I can't divulge that information.

- Why? What do you mean? - Secret business.

- Are you joking with me? - Oh, no, no.

Your daughter will tell you if she wishes.

Jessica.

Just what did you go to California for?

Are you keeping something from me?

Mother let's not start that. Not on Christmas Eve.

- I have a gift for you. - It's my fault, Jessica.

- Can't we start all over again? - No, we cannot.

I can see that you're

a thorough-going scalawag, young man.

I'm delighted to hear you say so, madam.

And kindly stop calling me madam.

Mother, please?

Now, I know what I'm doing if you don't.

- Young man-- - Please, not young man.

I think you're in league with the devil.

Goodnight.

- Goodnight. - Mother..

Don't leave your guests, Jessica.

There went the spirit of Christmas.

Well, shall we try and go on with the party?

- Yeah. - Yeah.

- Goodnight, Jess. - Goodbye, darling.

Thanks for the lovely present.

- Let me call you a cab. - Nothing doing.

After that wonderful dinner a mild walk will do us good.

In these shoes? You may not know it, my darling..

...but after the first block you're carrying me.

- We'll see about that. - Bye.

- 'Hi, mom.' - Goodnight, mom.

Goodnight.

- Goodnight, boys. Sleep well. - On Christmas Eve?

Don't wake me up until seven.

The rest of the presents can wait that long.

- Okay, mom. - It's nice to be home again.

It's nice to have you home. Merry Christmas.

- Merry Christmas, mom. - Merry Christmas.

Goodnight.

- Merry Christmas, Major Landis. - Merry Christmas.

Merry Christmas, boys.

Well, Scott, now you've seen me as I really am.

Home, children, mother.

Of course, mother was more than I bargained for

On the contrary. I thought she was a wonderful museum piece.

- Did you like my kids? - Of course, I like them.

They're yours, aren't they?

It was nice to have you here tonight.

You didn't invite me here on purpose by any chance, did you?

Well, now that you mention it..

...perhaps I did.

Jessica...I've got to talk to you.

Sit down, please.

Jessica, we simply cannot go on like this.

You want to stop seeing me?

Of course, I don't want to stop seeing you.

I know myself now, and I'm beginning to understand you.

It'll only make you unhappy. It's inevitable.

Go ahead, Scott.

Well, seeing you here tonight in this house

that you once shared with your husband--

Don't talk about that now please.

Don't you see? I've got to talk about it.

You expect a love affair to lead to marriage--

Scott...are you trying to tell me you're not the marrying kind?

Well, I've never felt that it was right for me.

Dutch courage.

Jessica...Frank Everett's the type of man for you.

- I don't love Frank. - But there are others.

As long as I am hanging around you wont find them.

Suppose you let me think for myself.

But don't you see? There's no future in this for you.

I'll cross my bridges when I come to them.

Well, women are funny.

- I guess I'd better be going. - Don't take it so big, Scott.

I know what I'm doing.

I wonder.

You're not the only one who can give Christmas presents.

Oh, thank you, Jessica.

- Shall I open it now? - Uh-huh.

I thought it'd be nicer if I gave it to you

when we were alone.

Kind of silly.

Apparently, we had the same idea.

Wait till you see yours.

- When am I going to see you? - I'll call you tomorrow.

Goodnight, Jessica.

Goodnight.

Hello?

Oh, hello, Jessica.

Yes, I, I know. I got in about a half an hour ago.

Oh, sure, our date is still on.

A Landis would never renege on a thing like that.

Do I sound funny?

What a woman. You worry about the darnedest things.

Now, you get dressed and make yourself beautiful.

Yeah, I'll be there as quickly as possible.

By the way, how are the boys?

They've gone to a party?

Alright, kids, go out in the hall and have some sandwiches

and cider if you want it.

I'm as hungry as a bear.

Isn't this a fun party? I love to come to Gretchen's.

This is my first New Year's Eve party with all the trimmings.

- This apple cider's good. - Try these. They're super.

Let's sit over here. I wanna talk to you.

Alright, Keith.

Say, Penny, are you my girl?

Well, I..

I-I kind of thought so.

You see, I've to go back to school in a few days

and I wanna get things sort of settled.

I mean, whether you're gonna write to me regularly.

You know, a guy likes to know where he stands.

You know I'll write.

Kim. Kim Drummond, you come back here, Kim.

Why can't you tell me what happened?

I had to ask Droopy to the party.

After all, his mother and father are here.

- 'Let's go home.' - What's the idea?

Make him stay. He's mad 'cause we asked Droopy to sit with us.

That's not it at all.

It's because what people have been saying about your mother.

People have been saying that during the holidays.

Wait a minute, Gretchen. Kim, what were they saying?

I...I'll tell you on the way home.

Your mother always came here for New Year's.

Then all of a sudden, she doesn't.

No wonder people are talking.

If that's how you feel, I'm glad we're going home.

Don't come back here ever, I never wanna speak to you again

as long as I live.

Come in.

Boys, you're home so early.

Keith dear, come and hook me up, I'm in a dreadful hurry.

Are you going to the Van Orman's?

- No, I'm going to Chicago. - Oh.

Everyone expected you at the Van Orman's.

Who's everybody?

Well, everybody at the party. Your friends.

I told Ms. Van Orman a week ago I wasn't able to come.

But I'm terribly flattered. I didn't know I was so popular.

Mom, did you go to the fights with Major Landis?

Yes.

Boys, if you have anything on your mind, I wish you'd tell me.

You never went to the fights with dad.

'Dad never asked me.'

Well, you came home on the train from Chicago

at 4 o'clock in the morning.

They made a lot of jokes about that at the party.

And all that stuff about Lake Tahoe.

'You running after Major Landis.'

Have they been telling you these things?

Not us, but everybody else.

I didn't believe it.

Mom, none of it is true, is it?

Not their interpretation of it.

We kinda hoped you'd say that they were all liars.

Listen to me, boys. There are two sides to everything.

Even gossip.

I've done nothing whatever you need be ashamed of.

I don't wanna discuss it anymore.

One of you answer the door. Anna's out.

I'll get it.

Mom, you oughta see it from our side.

I don't wanna discuss it, Keith.

- Good evening. - Good evening.

May I come in a minute?

Sure.

- Is your mother ready? - I'll tell her you're here.

Coming, Scott.

- Hello, Scott. - Hello, Jessica.

Anything wrong?

No, nothing.

I'm sorry about this, boys.

There's nothing more I can say now.

- Goodnight. - Goodnight, boys.

Do you mind stopping by the Van Orman's for a few minutes?

If it won't take long.

They won't hold that reservation after 11:30 in Chicago.

It won't take long. 201, Lakeshore Drive.

'Yes, ma'am.'

- Happy New Year, Johnson. - Thank you, the same to you.

- May I take your coat? - No, thanks. We can't stay.

Good evening, children. Happy New Year.

Happy New Year, Mrs. Drummond.

- I'm so glad you came. - Thank you.

- Hello, everybody. - 'Hello, Jessica.'

Darling, so you did decide to come to the party after all.

How sweet of you.

I want you to meet Major Landis of whom you've heard so much.

- Hi, major. - Mrs. Van Orman, our hostess.

So nice to see you at last, Major Landis.

Mr. And Mrs. Hawks, Mr. And Mrs. Hanson.

- Mr. And Mrs. Moore. - How'd you do?

All very old friends of mine.

I'm surprised you could remember all our names.

Hello, Jess. Come on over and have a drink.

We're way ahead of you, but come and have a drink.

- Scott, this is Mr. Van Orman. - How'd you do?

How are you, major? What'll you drink?

You all soldiers can hold your liquor.

I started with bourbon. Might as well stay with it.

- What'll you have? - Nothing. We can't stay long.

The boys told me you missed me, so here I am.

Well, of course, we miss you, New Year's just doesn't seem

to be New Year's without the Drummonds.

George, will you see that Major Landis is kept amused

while I speak to Riette.

Well, can't it be said right here?

No, I'm afraid not. Come on.

- Weren't you at the fights? - Oh, yes. Last Thursday.

- Good fights, weren't they? - Swell. Happy New Year.

I'll get this off my chest in a hurry.

The boys were upset by some things they overheard here.

Why pick on me?

Because it happened in your house. I don't wanna know

who did the talking, but I'm asking you to put a stop to it.

I did the talking and since we seem to be letting our hair down

I think you're behaving abominably.

Is being seen with a man such a dreadful crime?

It's the way you're seen, which we don't like.

What is this nonsense about Lake Tahoe?

Oh, come now, Jess. You don't expect us to believe

you went there for a pleasant little rest cure.

No wonder the boys distrust me

if that's the kinda thing you're saying.

How can you do it? What right have you?

Right of a friend who hates to see you make a fool of yourself.

'A friend should come to me.'

'Not allow gossip to circulate so that children hear it.'

I'm terribly disillusioned. I don't mind saying so.

Well, how do you suppose we feel?

We thought you missed Paul dreadfully.

But it's obvious that you forget pretty quickly.

Oh, I see.

It isn't on account of Paul you're saying the things you do.

It's because you resent me

for being able to make a new life for myself.

Then you admit you're guilty.

That's all you got out of what I've been saying?

'Oh really, Jessica? I'm giving a party.'

'I haven't got time to go into a discussion of ethics.'

Oh, don't look like that. Come on, let's join the others.

I won't embarrass you in front of your handsome friend.

I'm afraid I don't care enough anymore.

Oh. Then why did you bother to come here at all?

Because I was still coward enough

to want to save my reputation.

How quaint.

You know, I've been a coward all my life.

I'm not going to be one anymore.

No matter how hard it is to strike out on my own

I'm gonna do what I think is right.

Even if it means breaking completely

with everything in the past.

That includes you and all these so-called friends of mine.

Jessica, I'm afraid we're going to be late.

Yes, Scott.

Goodnight, Riette. And a very happy new year.

- Goodnight. - Come on, Scott.

Let's go to Chicago before we lose the table.

- We don't have to. - No. I wanna celebrate.

It's wonderful to get something off your chest.

Come on, we'll see the new year in with bells on.

Alright.

- Chicago. - Yes, sir.

♪ Should old acquaintance be forgot ♪

♪ And never brought to mind ♪

♪ Should old acquaintance be forgot ♪

♪ And play the old Lang syne ♪

♪ For auld lang syne my dear ♪

♪ For auld lang syne ♪

♪ We'll take a cup of kindness yet ♪

♪ For auld lang syne ♪♪

Happy new year!

They say that the person

you're with as the new year comes in

is the person you'll be with all during the coming year.

I know it's going to be true.

This place has a particular sentimental value for me.

Do you know why?

I think I can guess.

Suppose I hadn't been here that night.

I don't like to think about it.

Jessica--

And don't ask me if it was pure co-incidence

that brought us together again because..

Well, I might tell you the truth.

Well, I think we should be getting home. It's rather late.

I have one bottle of good champagne in the ice chest.

Shall we have it when you take me home?

Yes. I'd like to have a last glass with you.

That is, the last glass on New Year's.

Kim, are you asleep?

- No. - I'm not either.

Did you hear a noise downstairs?

I guess mom's home.

What time is it anyhow?

3:30.

Maybe she didn't have such a good time.

- You know what I'd like to do? - What?

When we hear her coming down the hall

let's yell "Happy New Year."

- She'd like that. - Okay.

- Hurry up, Jessica. - Coming.

- Here's luck to us, Scott. - Luck.

This is by far the best.

I wish now we'd stayed here by ourselves.

Do you realize we didn't even

know each other three months ago?

Jessica, there's somethin'--

I suppose it's foolish of me to make plans for the future

but I don't know, I just can't get it outta my head.

- Plans? - Of all the things we can do.

It's so lovely here in the spring.

We can swim in the pool and have picnic suppers.

Maybe you don't care for picnics.

Not particularly.

No. I guess you're not the picnic type.

I'll see if I can borrow mother's cottage

at the Lake Geneva

And you, Cary, Ginna and I can go there for a weekend.

I don't know whether or not the canoe is still working--

Listen, Jessica. I've got to give it to you straight.

This is our last evening together.

I've got my orders to go to New York.

7 'o' clock this morning.

That's why I brought you home so early.

I suppose I should have told you when I first got the news

but I just couldn't bring myself to do it.

You were having such a good time.

I knew it would be sudden

but I didn't expect it to be this soon.

- Is this it? - Yes, I'll be shipped out.

Can you tell me how soon?

I don't know

All I know is, that it'll be sudden.

I think I always knew it would be like this.

I'm going to New York too.

I don't care how little time there is.

All that matters is that I can be with you.

I knew I'd lose you someday. You warned me and I accepted it.

But now, I can't let you go.

You don't think I wanna go, do you?

I don't know anything except I love you.

I was afraid to admit it. I thought, when you did go away

I could pick up my old life again and forget you.

- You still need to do that. - Now I don't wanna forget you.

- Please don't talk like that. - Don't you understand?

I'm happy loving you.

You would've been better off never to have known me.

Don't ever say that. All I wanna hear is

that you want me in New York as much as I wanna be there.

I want you more than anything in the world.

Then nothing else matters.

Maybe I can get a reservation. I'll keep on trying until I do.

- Don't worry. - Jessica.

You must hurry and pack and so must I.

I'll meet you at the station at 7:00 on the dot.

Right.

Mom, are you going away?

We heard what you said on the stairs.

Yes.

I'm going to New York.

I've to hurry and pack and be at the station before seven.

- Why? - Major Landis is going away.

I wanna see as much of him as possible before he does.

You'll be leaving in a couple of days. Anna will see you off.

I'm awfully sorry to have to go

while you're still on your vacation, but..

...try to understand.

I have to hurry.

Kim? Keith?

Hello? Yes.

Yes.

They are?

I'll be there as soon as I can.

Come in, Jessica.

- Where are they? - They're in the drawing room.

- How long have they been here? - Only about ten minutes.

Just a moment, please.

I haven't asked the boys what has happened.

They've never been close to me.

For that reason I know there must be something very wrong

at home for them to come to me for help.

All I beg, is that you think carefully

before you go into that room.

Otherwise I'm afraid that you'll regret this bitterly

all the rest of your life.

Now, go to your boys, my dear.

Boys, I don't know what to say or how to begin.

What good did it do to run away?

We don't wanna live at home anymore.

Oh, Keith, what an awful thing to say.

You lied to us. We don't know what to believe.

I told you the truth. Always.

They all said things about you and Major Landis.

And now you're going to New York with him.

It proves they were true.

We'll never believe anything you say again.

Mom, don't you remember dad at all?

Don't say that, please. You know I remember dad.

You've forgotten him.

Nobody remembers dad but us.

That isn't true.

Can't you understand that I might learn to care

for someone else and still have a place in my heart for dad?

But you belong to dad.

It doesn't make any difference whether he's dead or not.

Boys...will you try for few minutes

to think of me as someone other than your mother?

How can we? You are.

Alright.

Then just sit down and listen.

I don't know whether or not I can make you understand.

You know how terribly ill dad was for almost two years.

He...he didn't want you to see him suffer.

I knew how he felt so I kept things from you.

Dad always liked life.

It wasn't life for him to have to stay in bed.

Specially with so much pain.

After he died...I tried in every way I could to forget

the two years of his illness.

You see, I wanted to be able to remember the good times with dad

when we were all together.

But I was so terribly lonely.

All I could think of was dad toward the last.

Remember the night before you went away to school?

You went out with Gretchen and Penny.

I had to bite my lips to keep from asking you to stay with me.

And with you...gone away, I..

I got so I dreaded coming home.

If I hadn't gone away with Ginna and Carry and met Major Landis..

...I don't know what would have happened to me.

Does he mean as much to you as dad used to?

Don't say "used to", dear.

Dad still means just as much to me, only in a different way.

I can't explain it.

Someday when you're older

you'll understand that one can give all one's heart

to more than one person

and still remain sincere and loyal.

The first time you fall in love

it's all so exciting and wonderful

It can only be like that...once.

But the second time can be just as true and just as deep.

Oh, boys.

I lost dad and now I'm losing Major Landis.

He's gonna be sent away. I'll probably never see him again.

It's..

It's very hard to lose someone you love.

Oh, don't cry, please.

Oh, mom. I want you to be happy.

I try to understand, but golly, it's so hard.

'It's so hard.'

Mom, can't we go home now?

Oh, Keith.

I'll say goodnight to grandmother for you.

- We're going home, mother. - I'm glad.

I knew you'd do the right thing.

Thanks for helping me.

My dear child. I did nothing. It had to come from you.

I know how much it's taken out of you.

It's hard to do what is right sometimes.

- I know. - Funny.

I never thought you could do anything else.

I haven't always been old, Jessica.

Young people resent conventions.

But as you grow older you realize that conventions

were established because there was need for them.

Now go home and get some rest, my dear.

- Goodnight. - Goodnight.

Scott.

Scott!

Oh, darling, I can't go to New York with you.

I can't leave my boys.

They ran away because they don't understand about us.

- Ran away? - I got them back.

I tried to explain, but they're too young to understand.

If I go now, things will never be the same between them and me.

Oh, Scott, please try to realize why I'm letting you down.

Please forgive me.

There's nothing to forgive, darling.

You have to face responsibility.

You wouldn't be you if you didn't.

I'll always love you. Nothing will ever change that.

'Board!'

Oh, Scott, this is it. We have to say goodbye.

No, Jessica, not goodbye.

I haven't enough time to say what I'd like

but you know how I felt about being tied to anything.

Well, I've changed.

And, darling, when I come back

and this time I know I'm coming back.

Will you be waiting for me?

Oh, Scott!

'Board!'

- Yes or no? - I'll wait, no matter how long.

I'll wait.

Bye, darling.

- And you won't be too lonely? - I'll never be lonely again.