Original subtitles

♪♪

You've got them mixed up.

-You're making a mistake. -(inaudible)

You're making a mistake with the reindeer.

-(inaudible) -Tsk. Tsk. Tsk.

Would you mind stepping out for a moment?

Open the door.

I'm sorry. The store isn't open today and I'm--

Oh, I don't want to buy anything, and I'm sorry to interrupt your work,

but I wanted to tell you, you're making a rather serious mistake.

-Huh? -With the reindeer, I mean.

You've got Cupid where Blitzen should be. And Dasher...

Oh, Dasher should be on my right-hand side.

-He should, huh? -Yes. Yes.

Oh, and another thing,

Donner's antlers have got four points instead of three.

Still, I don't suppose anybody would notice that except myself.

-Nah, I don't suppose so. -No.

-Well, bye. -Not at all.

-Thanks. -Glad to have helped you.

Bye. (chuckles)

Dear, dear.

♪ ("Jingle Bells" plays) ♪

♪ Jingle bells, jingle bells ♪

(continues humming tune)

You're on float number three.

You're on the pilgrim float.

You three, you're on the pirate float. And you--

Mrs. Walker, something's got to be done.

That "rub-a-dub-dub, three men in a tub" float just isn't big enough.

We can get the butcher and the baker in, but--

I'm awfully sorry, Mr. Shellhammer,

but I've got enough to do to take care of the people.

Oh, dear. I was so hoping... George!

♪ (marching band plays "Jingle Bells" ) ♪

I beg your pardon, sir.

You seem slightly mixed-up with this whip of yours.

-(mutters) -Allow me. Allow me.

It's quite simple, really. You don't mind if I show you, eh?

Not at all. Now, then.

(whip cracking)

-See? It's all in the wrist. -(mutters)

-Of course, you follow through, you know. -Is that so?

Yes! It's just like throwing a ball.

-If you were to-- -(laughs)

-You've been drinking. -Well, it's cold!

A man's got to do something to keep warm!

You ought to be ashamed of yourself.

Don't you realize there are thousands of children

-lining the streets, waiting to see you? -(chuckles)

Children who've been dreaming of this moment for weeks?

You're a disgrace to the tradition of Christmas.

And I refuse to have you malign me in this fashion.

Disgusting!

Tell me. Who's in charge of this parade?

When you find out, you tell me.

These pants are gonna fall off in the middle of Columbus Circle.

I beg your pardon.

Could you tell me who's in charge here?

Yes, Mrs. Walker. There she is, down there.

-Thank you. -You're welcome.

Oh, you two ought to be over on 81st Street.

Mrs. Walker, one of the men in your parade is not fit--

What are you doing out of costume? Now get back and get dressed.

Oh, I'm terribly sorry. I thought you were our Santa Claus.

Your Santa Claus is intoxicated.

-Oh, no! -Yes. It's disgraceful.

How can you allow a man...

(drunken singing) ♪ Jingle bells, jingle bells ♪

-♪ Jingle all-- ♪ -Stop that!

What do you mean by drinking? You know it's not allowed.

It's cold. A man's gotta do something to keep warm.

I'll warm you. I ought to take this cane--

And I ought to... Uh, somebody, Julian, get some black coffee.

-Plenty of it, please. -Yes, Mrs. Walker.

Black with a little cream.

Wake me up when the parade starts.

-Oh-- -♪ Jingle bells, jingle bells ♪

♪ Jingle all the way ♪

-(drunken Santa groans) -Oh!

Shameful. Absolutely shameful!

Could you be Santa Claus? Have you had any experience?

(chuckles) Oh, a little.

Oh, please. You've got to help me out.

Madam! I am not in the habit

of substituting for spurious Santa Clauses.

-No! No, I-- -Oh, please.

I...

(chuckles)

Well, the children mustn’t be disappointed.

-All right. I'll do it. -Oh, good. Thank you.

Come along. Right this way.

Get that costume!

(marching band plays)

(marching band continues playing)

-(cheering) -(inaudible)

Wonderful! He's the best we've ever had. He didn't need any padding.

-What? -Padding. He didn't need any padding.

-Oh. -Where did you find him?

Oh, I just turned 'round, and there he was.

I'm glad you turned 'round. I mean, I'm glad he was there.

Just think if Mr. Macy had seen the other one.

Just think if Mr. Gimbel had seen the other one!

You want to ride in the motorcycle or car?

No, I'm going to go home and get in a hot tub.

And I might stay there until next Thanksgiving.

You really should see the parade. You worked so hard on it.

Oh, if I want to, which I doubt, I can see it from the roof of my apartment.

Oh, that's right. You live down the--

Mrs. Walker!

Oh, my, my.

♪ (marching band plays "Santa Claus is Coming to Town") ♪

Hello there! (indistinct greetings)

Good to see you!

(marching band playing)

Susan?

(sighs)

Susan!

-Hello, Cleo. -Hello, Mrs. Walker.

Mmm. What a beauty.

-Where's Susan? -She's watching the parade.

-Oh? Where? With whom?

With that Mr. Gailey who lives in the front apartment.

Oh, yes.

CLEO: Oh, I've been keeping an eye on her.

DORIS WALKER: She can see everything from there.

That's the 50-yard line.

He's so very fond of Susan.

When he asked me-- well, I didn't think you'd mind.

Well, I guess it's all right. I'll go on in in a minute.

(chuckles)

Looks like they're having a little trouble with the baseball player.

He was a clown last year.

They just changed the head and painted him different.

-My mother told me. -Hmm.

He certainly is a giant, isn't he?

Not really. There are no giants, Mr. Gailey.

Well, maybe not now, Susie, but in olden days,

there were a lot of...

Well, what about the giant that Jack killed?

Jack?

-Jack who? -Jack, uh...

Jack! "Jack and the Beanstalk."

-I never heard of that. -(laughs)

You must've heard of that. You've just forgotten.

It's a fairy tale!

Oh! One of those. I don't know any fairy tales.

Oh, your mother and father must have told you a fairy tale.

No. My mother thinks they're silly.

I don't know whether my father thinks they're silly or not.

I never met my father.

You see, my father and mother were divorced when I was a baby.

Well, that baseball player certainly looks like a giant to me.

People sometimes grow very big, but that's abnormal.

I'll bet your mother told you that too.

(door buzzer buzzing)

Hello. Uh, I'm Susan's mother.

Yes, I know. Won't you come in?

Susie's told me quite a lot about you.

-I'm Fred Gailey. -Yes, I know.

Susan's told me quite a lot about you, too.

-Hello, Mother. -Hello, dear.

-(sighs) -Won't you have a cup of coffee?

-You must be half-frozen, standing out. -Oh, don't bother.

-It's no bother. It's all ready. -Well, in that case, thanks.

-What do you think of my parade? -It's much better than last year's.

Well, I hope Mr. Macy agrees with you.

Sugar? Cream? Both? Neither?

Just one sugar, please.

-This is very kind of you, Mr. Gailey. -Sit down.

And I want to thank you for being so kind to Susan.

Cleo tells me that you took them to the zoo yesterday.

That's right, but I must confess,

it's part of a deep-dyed plot.

I'm fond of Susie. Very fond.

But I also wanted to meet you.

I read someplace the surest way to meet the mother

is to be kind to the child.

-What a horrible trick. -It worked.

-There goes Santa Claus. -Oh! Don't even mention the name.

He's much better than last year's. At least this one doesn't wear glasses.

This one was a last-minute substitute. The one I hired, I fired.

Why?

You remember the way the janitor was last New Year's?

Oh, yes.

Well, this one was much worse.

Oh.

I see she doesn't believe in Santa Claus either.

No Santa Claus, no fairy tales, no fantasies of any kind.

-Is that it? -That's right.

I think we should be realistic and completely truthful with our children.

And not have them growing up believing in a lot of legends and myths,

like Santa Claus, for example.

-I see. -That's the end.

-The acrobats were good. -They ought to be, at those prices.

-Thanks for the coffee. -And thank you for inviting me in.

It was a pleasure, missy.

Mother, I was thinking, we've got such a big turkey for dinner,

And there are only two of us...

-Couldn't we invite Mr. Gailey? -Couldn't we? Well--

Oh, don't even think about it. I'll have a sandwich or something.

It's an awful big turkey.

That's not it, dear. But...

I'm sure Mr. Gailey has other plans.

No, he hasn't. Have you?

Uh, to be quite honest and truthful with the child,

I must admit I haven't any other plans.

-I don't want to interfere-- -Please, Mother. Please!

-Well, I-- -Did I ask all right?

Hmm?

(chuckles nervously)

Didn't I ask all right, Mr. Gailey?

That all depends.

Dinner's at three.

Thanks.

Susie, honey, you asked just right.

I'll see you at three.

-It worked. -Yes.

(marching band playing)

I tell you, Mrs. Walker, he's stupendous. Everybody's crazy about him.

So is Mr. Macy.

Well, hire him, by all means.

-It's perfectly all right with me. -(piano chords)

As a matter of fact, it will save me a frantic search in the morning.

-(piano lid clicking) -Yes. That's right.

All right, I'll take care of it as soon as he gets through. Oh, you'll love him!

I just know that with that man on the throne,

my department will sell more toys than it ever has.

He's a born salesman! I just feel it.

Yes, yes, yes. We'll talk about it in the morning. Goodbye.

Goodbye.

(chattering)

And you will find toys of all kinds at Macy's.

ALFRED: Gee, that sure is an elegant costume.

Yes. I've had it for years. And years...

Sure makes a bum out of the one they gave you.

Mm-hmm.

But even that one's better than the one I wear.

You, Alfred?

Yeah, I play Santa Claus over at the Y near our block.

No kidding!

Started about three years ago.

They had a costume, but, well, it didn't have no paddin' and...

since I carry my own paddin' around with me, I got the job.

(chuckles) You enjoy impersonating me?

Oh, yeah.

Why?

I don't know. When I give packages to the little kids,

I like to watch their faces get that Christmas look all of a sudden.

It makes me feel kind of good and important.

-(indistinct chattering) -WOMAN: Pardon me.

There you are! There you are!

-Good morning. -Good morning.

Now, before-- Oh my!

What a striking costume. Before you go up on the floor,

I just want to give you a few tips on how to be a good Santa Claus.

Go right ahead.

Well, here's a list of toys that we have to "push."

You know, things that we're overstocked on.

Now, you'll find that a great many children

will be undecided as to what they want for Christmas.

When that happens, you immediately suggest one of these items.

-You understand? -I certainly do.

(chuckles) Good.

Now, you memorize that list, and I'll...

Oh, no. I'll tell you.

When you've finished, come up to the seventh floor.

I'll be waiting for you.

Imagine, making a child take something it doesn't want,

just because he bought too many of the wrong toys.

That's what I've been fighting against for years,

the way they commercialize Christmas.

Yeah, there's a lot of bad "isms" floating around,

but the worst is "commercialism."

"Make a buck. Make a buck." Even in Brooklyn it's the same.

Don't care what Christmas stands for. Just make a buck.

Make a buck.

(chuckles) Oh, don't bother. I'll put it away for you.

Huh? Oh, thank you, Alfred.

And what shall I do with these?

Throw 'em on the floor. I get kind of tired just sweepin' up dust.

(chuckles)

-Thanks. -Yeah. Thank you, Alfred.

MAN: This way, please. Right this way, please.

Yes, yes, yes. Peter's a fine name.

What do you want for Christmas, Peter?

I want a fire engine just like the big ones, only smaller.

It has a real hose.

It squirts real, live water. And I won't do it in the house.

I'll only do it in the backyard. I promise.

Psst. Psst. Macy's ain't got any. Nobody's got any.

Well, Peter, I can tell you're a good boy.

You'll get your fire engine.

PETER: Oh, thank you very much.

You see? I told you he'd get me one.

Mm. That's fine. That's just dandy. Listen, you wait over there.

Mama wants to thank Santa Claus, too.

Say, listen, what's the matter with you? Don't you understand English?

I tell ya, Macy's ain't got any. Nobody's got any.

I've been all over. My feet are killin' me.

Fine thing promisin' the kid.

Now, you don't think I would've said that unless I was sure, do you?

You can get those fire engines at Schoenfelt's on Lexington Avenue.

Only 8.50. A wonderful bargain.

Schoenfelt's? I don't get it.

Oh, I keep track of the toy market pretty closely.

Does that surprise you so?

Surprise me? Macy's sendin' people to other stores?

Are you kiddin' me?

The only important thing is to make the children happy,

and whether Macy or somebody else sells a toy

doesn't make any difference.

Don't you feel that way?

Huh? Who, me? Oh, yeah, sure. Only I didn't know Macy's did.

Well, as long as I'm here, they do.

I don't get it. No. I just don't get it.

(indistinct chattering)

MAN: Right this way, please.

This way, please.

Oh, I quite understand. Your little girl would like some skates.

But, of course, you must get her the best.

Plus, their little ankles, you know, they want protecting.

Now, we've got skates,

and they're very good, too, but they're not quite good enough.

You go to Gimbels. They'll have exactly what you're looking for, I'm sure.

-KRIS: There you are. Here. Here. -Gimbels!

-That's for you. Merry Christmas. Bye! -Gimbels.

Hello, my dear girl. How old are you?

Gimbels! Gimbels!

Pardon me. The guard said I should speak to you.

-You're the head of the toy department? -Yes, but at the moment--

Well, listen, I wanna congratulate you and Macy's

on this wonderful new stunt you're pullin'.

Imagine sendin' people to other stores. I don't get it.

-Why, it's-- it's-- -It certainly is.

You said it. Imagine a big outfit like Macy's

puttin' the spirit of Christmas ahead of the commercial.

It's wonderful! Well, I'll tell ya, I never done much shoppin' here before,

but I'll tell ya one thing.

From now on, I'm gonna be a regular Macy customer.

-All right. -Thank you, madam.

There are six more women out there who want to thank you.

Not now. I've got to think this thing over.

Well, personally, I think it's a wonderful idea, too.

You think so. Those women think so.

The point is, will Mr. Macy think so?

This seems awfully silly, Mr. Gailey.

Well, I thought as long as we're in the store,

you might as well say hello to Santa Claus.

Why?

Well, because when you talk to him, you might feel differently about him.

Goodbye, Elmer. Be a good boy now.

(laughs) Merry Christmas!

-Well, young lady, what's your name? -Susan Walker. What's yours?

Mine? Kris Kringle.

I'm Santa Claus.

Oh! You don't believe that, do you?

Mm-Mmm. You see, my mother's Mrs. Walker,

the lady who hired you.

Oh!

But I must say, you're the best-looking one I've ever seen.

Really?

Your beard doesn't have one of those things

that goes over your ears.

That's because it's real, just like I'm really Santa Claus.

Oh, go ahead. Pull it!

(gasps, sputters)

MAN: All right, folks. Don't crowd.

You have all day to see Santa Claus. Now, children, behave.

This way, please. Get back in the line now.

And, now, what would you like me to bring you for Christmas?

Nothing, thank you.

Oh, come now. You must want something.

Whatever I want, my mother will get for me.

If it's sensible and doesn't cost too much, of course.

-Hello, Mother. -Hello, Susan. Hello, Mr. Gailey.

I think you've taken up enough of this gentleman's time now. Come along, dear.

The, uh, explanation for this is all very simple.

Cleo's mother sprained her ankle. She had to go home.

She asked me to bring Susie down to you.

Yes, I know. Cleo called. I've been wondering where you were.

I thought we might as well say hello to Santa Claus.

He's a nice old man, Mother.

And those whiskers are real, too!

Yes, yes, dear. Many men have long beards like that.

Susan, would you stand over here a minute? I want to talk to Mr. Gailey.

SUSAN: All right.

I shouldn't have brought Susie to see Santa Claus, huh?

Now, you're making me feel like the proverbial stepmother.

I'm sorry, but I couldn't see any harm in just saying hello to the old fella.

But I think there is harm.

I tell her Santa Claus is a myth, and you bring her down here,

she sees hundreds of gullible children,

meets a very convincing old man with real whiskers.

This sets up a very harmful mental conflict within her.

What is she going to think? Who is she going to believe?

And, by filling them full of fairy tales,

they grow up considering life a fantasy

instead of a reality.

They keep waiting for Prince Charming to come along.

When he does, he turns out to be a--

We were talking about Susie, not about you.

Whether you agree or not,

I must ask you to respect my wishes regarding Susan.

She's my responsibility, and I must bring her up as I see fit.

Okay.

-Say, "Thank you, Santa Claus." -Thank you.

-Say, "Thank you, Santa Claus." -Thank you.

Bye. Merry Christmas!

Well, young lady, what's your name?

I'm sorry, she doesn't speak English. She's Dutch.

She just came over.

She's been living in an orphan's home in Rotterdam ever since...

MOTHER: Well, we've adopted her.

I told her you wouldn't be able to speak to her,

but when she saw you in the parade yesterday,

she said you were Sinterklaas, as she calls you,

and you could talk to her.

-Well, I didn't know what to do. -Hello.

-(speaking Dutch) -(speaking Dutch)

(conversing in Dutch)

(laughs, speaks Dutch)

(both singing in Dutch)

-Now do you understand? -Yes, I see what you mean, Mother.

Good.

But when he spoke Dutch to that girl, he was so--

Susan, I speak French, but that doesn't make me Joan of Arc.

-What I'm trying to explain to you is-- -(knocking)

Come in.

They said you wanted to see me, Mrs. Walker.

-Come right in. -Hello there. Good to see you again.

-It's nice to see you. -You're awfully lucky, Mrs. Walker.

Lovely little girl you have here.

Thank you, and Susan's the reason I asked you to drop down.

She's a little confused,

and I thought you could help straighten her out.

Glad to.

Would you please tell her that you're not really Santa Claus,

that there actually is no such person?

Well, I'm sorry to disagree with you, Mrs. Walker,

but not only is there such a person,

but here I am to prove it.

No, no, no. You misunderstand.

I want you to tell her the truth. Uh, what's your name?

Kris Kringle. I'll bet you're in the first grade.

Second.

I mean your real name.

That is my real name.

-Second grade? -It's a progressive school.

Oh! It's a progressive school.

May I have this gentleman's employment card, please?

Yes, Mrs. Walker.

This dress is very cute. Where did you get such a lovely outfit?

-Here at Macy's. We get 10% off. -Oh!

Please don't feel that you have to keep pretending for Susan's benefit.

She's a very intelligent child, and always wants to know the absolute truth.

Good, because I always tell the absolute truth.

Now, about your school. What's the name of your teacher?

-Mrs. Hainey. -Mrs. Hainey.

-Here it is, Mrs. Walker. -Thank you.

KRIS: What else do you do besides read and play games?

SUSAN: We have rest periods, one half-hour.

KRIS: I don't suppose you care for that, eh?

SUSAN: No. We're not allowed to talk or anything.

Tuesday, Chester Richards, he kept talking all the time.

KRIS: My, that was bad.

SUSAN: Yes, Mrs. Hainey made him stay resting all alone for nearly an hour.

Susan, dear, would you go and talk to Miss Adams for a minute,

and I'll be right with you?

-All right. Goodbye! -Goodbye, young lady.

-Hope to see you again. -Thank you. I hope so too.

-Goodbye. -Goodbye.

-Uh, I'm sorry Mr.... uh, Mr.... -Kringle.

I'm sorry, but we're going to have to make a change.

Change?

The Santa Claus we had two years ago

is back in town, and I feel that we owe it to him--

-Have I done something wrong? -Oh, no! N-no.

-Uh, well, uh-- -(intercom buzzing)

Yes?

SECRETARY: Mr. Macy wants to see you immediately.

Uh, I'll be right up.

Would you sit down?

And I'll be right back and sign your pay voucher.

Yes, indeed.

Oh, uh, go right in. Mr. Macy's waiting.

SECRETARY: No, no.

MR. MACY: The effect that this will have on the public--

Oh, come in, Mrs. Walker.

-Hello, Mrs. Walker. -Hello, Mrs. Walker.

-Have a seat. -Sit over here.

I've just been telling these gentlemen

of the new policy you and Mr. Shellhammer initiated.

I can't say that I approve of your not consulting

the advertising department first.

But in the face of this tremendous response

on the part of the public,

I can't be angry with you.

-(whispers) What's he-- -(whispers) I'll tell you later.

MACY: Uh, now to continue, gentlemen.

I admit that on the face of it,

this plan sounds idiotic and impossible.

Imagine Macy's Santa Claus sending customers to Gimbels!

MACY (chuckles): But, gentlemen, you cannot argue with success.

Look at this-- telegrams, messages, telephone calls.

The governor's wife, the mayor's wife.

Over 500 thankful parents expressing undying gratitude to Macy's.

Never in my entire career have I seen such a tremendous

and immediate response to a merchandising policy.

But R. H.--

And I'm positive, Frank, that if we expand our policy,

we'll expand our results as well.

Therefore, from now on,

not only will our Santa Claus continue in this manner,

but I want every salesperson in this store to do precisely the same thing.

MACY: If we haven't got exactly what the customer wants,

we'll send him where he can get it.

No high-pressuring and forcing

a customer to take something he doesn't really want.

-But after all, Mr. Macy-- -We'll be known as "the helpful store,"

"the friendly store," "the store with a heart."

The store that places public service ahead of profits.

And, consequently, we'll make more profits than ever before.

Oh, yes, I know it's late, and we're all tired and want to go to dinner,

so we'll continue the first thing in the morning.

MACY: In the meantime, you fellas get together

and figure out the best way to promote this thing.

-We'll do that. Good night, R. H. -Good night.

-Good night, R. H. -Good night.

I want to thank you two again.

And in your Christmas envelopes,

you'll find a more practical expression of my gratitude.

BOTH: Thank you, Mr. Macy.

And tell that Santa Claus I won't forget him either.

Yes, Mr. Macy.

Imagine! A bonus!

He just assumed it was our idea, so I didn't--

What's the matter?

-I fired him. -Who?

-Santa Claus. -What?

He's crazy. He thinks he is Santa Claus.

I don't care if he thinks he's the Easter Bunny. You've got to get him back.

He's insane, I tell you.

DORIS: We'll just have to hire somebody else and have him do the same thing.

JULIAN SHELLHAMMER: Oh, no. You heard Mr. Macy.

We've got to keep him.

But what if he should have a sudden fit or something?

Oh, no, no. I've got to tell Mr. Macy.

But-- but maybe he's only a little crazy,

like painters or composers or some of those men in Washington.

We can't be sure until he's been examined.

If you fire him, and then we find out he wasn't really crazy,

Mr. Macy will have us examined. And fired.

I suppose we ought to be sure.

We could have Mr. Sawyer talk to him.

Of course. He's a psychologist.

That's what he's paid for, to examine employees.

Now, until we get his report, we won't say a word.

I'll get in touch with him right away.

But first, get that Santa Claus back.

The examination won't be worth a thing without the patient!

It was just because I felt that we owed it to him.

But Mr. Macy suggested

that we find something else for the other Santa Claus,

and keep you on, by all means.

Oh well, thanks. That's mighty good news.

-Yes. -You'll be here in the morning, then?

Certainly, I will.

You see, Mrs. Walker, this is quite an opportunity for me.

For the past 50 years or so,

I've been getting more and more worried about Christmas.

It seems we're all so busy

trying to beat the other fellow in making things go faster,

and look shinier, and cost less...

that... Christmas and I are sort of getting lost in the shuffle.

Oh, I don't think so. Christmas is still Christmas.

Oh, Christmas isn't just a day. It's a frame of mind.

And that's what's been changing.

That's why I'm glad I'm here. Maybe I can do something about it.

And I'm glad I met you and your daughter.

You two are a test case for me.

-We are? -Yes!

You're sort of the whole thing in miniature.

If I can win you over, there's still hope.

If not, then I guess I'm through.

But I'm warning you, I don't give up easily.

-Good night. -Good night.

-Oh! Oh! Mr. Kringle. -Yeah?

The first thing in the morning,

would you report to Mr. Sawyer's office?

Sawyer?

Yes, he'll just give you a little examination.

-Oh, we do it with all our employees. -A mental examination?

Uh, well, uh... (stammers)

Oh, I don't mind. I've taken dozens of them.

Never failed one yet. Know them by heart.

(clears throat)

"How many days in the week?" Seven.

"How many fingers do you see?" Four.

"Muscular coordination test."

"No damage to the nervous system."

"Who was the first president of the United States?"

George Washington.

"Who was the vice president under John Quincy Adams?"

Daniel D. Tompkins,

and I'll bet your Mr. Sawyer doesn't know that.

Good night.

(door closes)

Miss Adams, would you get me the Brooks Memorial Home in, uh, Great Neck?

It's a home for old people. That's right.

I want to talk to the doctor in charge.

How many days in the week?

Seven.

Who was the first president of the United States?

George Washington.

How much is three times five?

Oh, you asked me that before.

You'll find the answer right there,

-at the bottom of-- -I'm conducting this examination.

How much is three times five?

The same as it was before, 15.

You're rather nervous, aren't you, Mr. Sawyer?

Do you get enough sleep?

My personal habits are of no concern to you.

Oh, I'm sorry. It's just that I hate to see someone tied up--

How many fingers do you see?

Three. Oh! You bite your nails, too. Tsk, Tsk, Tsk.

Now, I want you to stand with your feet together

and your arms extended.

-Then I want you-- -Muscular coordination test?

Surely. Be glad to.

(laughs, inhales)

You know, sometimes the cause of nervous habits like yours

is not obvious.

No! Often, they're the result of an insecurity.

Are you happy at home, Mr. Sawyer?

That will be all, Mr. Kringle!

Examination's over. You may go.

-Thank you. -You may go out that way.

And it may interest you to know

that I've been happily married for 26 years.

Really? Delighted to hear it!

Goodbye.

Get me Mrs. Walker.

Yes, sir. And your wife's on 6-7-2.

She says it's very important.

Agnes, how many times have I told you not to bother me at the office?

No. Not a penny.

I give you a liberal allowance. It's up to you to run the house on it.

If that fat, stupid brother of yours would get a job,

you wouldn't have to be pestering me all the time!

(buzzing)

Uh, Mrs. Walker. I'd like to talk to you right away about this Kringle fellow.

Oh, yes. Dr. Pierce from the Brooks Home is here,

and it would be a good time to settle the whole matter.

Sorry, doctor. That was Mr. Sawyer, the gentleman I was telling you about.

-Oh, yes. -He'll be right in. He's down the hall.

I can't tell you how we appreciate your giving us your time, doctor.

Not at all. As a matter of fact, I was going to call you today.

I had a feeling, along about now, you people would be wondering about Kris.

Oh, Dr. Pierce, Mr. Sawyer.

-How do you do? -How do you do? Mrs. Walker,

after giving this man a comprehensive examination,

it's my considered opinion he should be dismissed immediately.

Really? He failed to pass the examination?

-Uh, yes. -He didn't answer the questions correctly?

Well, yes, he did, but there was complete lack of concentration.

He kept changing the subject.

He was even questioning me. I don't think there's any doubt about it.

He should be placed in a mental institution.

Oh, I don't agree, Mr. Sawyer.

People are institutionalized

to prevent them from harming themselves or other people.

Now, Mr. Kringle is incapable of either.

His is a delusion for good. He only wants to be friendly and helpful.

That's what I feel, too.

Why, there are thousands of people with similar delusions,

living perfectly normal lives in every other respect.

A famous example is that fellow, uh...

I can't think of his name,

but for years he's insisted he's a Russian prince.

Now, there's been all kinds of evidence to prove him wrong,

but nothing has shaken his story.

Is he in an institution? No.

He owns a famous restaurant in Hollywood, and is a highly respected citizen.

Dr. Pierce, I've made a great study of abnormal psychology.

And I've found from experience

that when a fixed delusion is challenged,

the deluded is apt to become violent.

-I'm afraid I'll have to disagree again. -But I--

If you tell Kris there is no Santa Claus,

I grant you he'll argue, but he'll not become violent.

His whole manner suggests aggressiveness.

Look at the way he carries that cane. And he's never without it.

Now, I know Kris carries a cane,

but surely you're not implying he'll use the cane as a weapon.

Uh-- Mrs. Walker, naturally, I can't discharge this man.

That's up to you, but you asked for my opinion, and I've given it to you.

So, when he exhibits his latent maniacal tendencies, which I assure you he will,

please realize the responsibility is completely yours.

Uh, speaking of delusions.

Now we're right back where we started.

No, we're not. After listening to Dr. Pierce, I feel perfectly confident.

Yes, but if anything happens, you won't get blamed, I will.

Mrs. Walker, nothing is going to happen.

And please don't feel that what I've said was prompted by my affection for Kris.

My specialty is geriatrics.

Huh?

The treatment of the diseases of old age.

I've had quite a bit of experience, and I assure you,

Kris has no "latent maniacal tendencies."

Well, you'll probably want to discuss this

with Mr. Shellhammer, so I'll be on my way.

-May I see Kris? -Why certainly, doctor.

Use the employees' elevator. It's much quicker.

Same one you came up.

-Where is that? I'm a little twisted. -I'll show you, doctor.

That isn't necessary. I'll find my way.

You understand my position, doctor.

If there's the slightest possibility

of his becoming violent or getting into trouble,

-I-- -What trouble could he get into?

All that's got to happen is for a policeman to ask him his name.

A big argument. Clang, clang! Bellevue.

You can prevent that simply.

There must be someone here who could rent a room to him.

Then they could both ride to and from work together.

I'd just as soon he didn't take that long train ride

to Great Neck twice a day.

That'd solve everything.

If someone was with him, they could steer him from trouble.

You mean, sort of take custody of him?

-Do you think he'd agree? -I'll talk to him. I'm sure he will.

-In that case, he can stay. -Good. Thank you.

It's the seventh floor, Doctor, and thank you very much.

-You're welcome. Bye. -Bye, doctor.

Well, I'm sure you made a wise decision.

But let's see. Who could rent him a room?

You. Your son's away at school. What about his room?

Well, I don't mind.

I'd be glad to, but I'm positive Mrs. Shellhammer wouldn't like it.

She's a little-- Say! I have an idea.

We always have martinis before dinner. I'll make them double-strength tonight.

I'll bet after a couple, she'll be more receptive to the idea.

But Kris is through work at six o'clock. What about the in-between time?

You take him home to dinner.

I'll call you as soon as my wife's plast-- uh, feeling gay.

-Oh, no! -Really, Mrs. Walker.

If I'm willing to let my wife have a big headache in the morning,

the least you can do is have a little headache tonight.

-All right. -Won't take but an hour or so.

By that time, it'll be quite all right.

Oh, good. Very good.

What sort of games do you play with the other children in the building?

I don't play much with them. They play silly games.

They do?

Like today, they were in the basement playing zoo, and all of them were animals!

When I came down, Homer-- he was supposed to be the zookeeper--

He said, "What kind of an animal are you?"

And I said, "I'm not an animal. I'm a girl."

And he said, "Only animals allowed here. Goodbye!"

So I came upstairs.

Why didn't you tell him you were a lion or a bear?

-Because I'm not a bear or a lion. -Yes...

But the other children were only children,

and they were pretending to be animals.

-But that's what makes the game so silly. -Oh, I don't think so.

Sounds like a wonderful game to me.

Of course, in order to play it, you've got to have an imagination.

Do you know what the imagination is?

Oh, sure. That's when you see things, but they're not really there.

Well, that can be caused by other things too.

No. To me, the imagination is a place all by itself. A separate country.

Now, you've heard of the French nation, the British nation.

Well, this is the imagination.

It's a wonderful place.

How would you like to be able to make snowballs in the summertime, eh?

Or drive a great big bus right down Fifth Avenue?

How would you like to have a ship all to yourself,

that makes daily trips to China and Australia?

How would you like to be the Statue of Liberty in the morning...

and in the afternoon fly south with a flock of geese?

It's rather simple. Of course, it takes practice.

Now, the first thing you've got to learn is how to pretend.

And the next time Homer says, "What kind of animal are you?"

You tell him you're a monkey.

-But I don't know how to be a monkey. -Sure you do!

Here. I'll show you. Now, just bend your body over a little like that.

Let your arms hang loose, see?

Now put your right hand up here, under there.

That's right. Now scratch yourself. See?

-Mm-hmm. -That's right. Now, then.

(speaks tongue-tied) Put your tongue under your lips, over your teeth.

-(tongue-tied) Like this? -Like that. That's right.

Now, then, scratch yourself and chatter. See?

(both chattering nonsense)

On the contrary, Haislip, Haislip, Sherman, Mackenzie & Haislip

have been very kind to me.

But, being an exceptional lawyer, I want to open my own office.

Would you put this in Susan's place for me, please?

I think you can take the meat out. It should be done.

KRINGLE: No, no. Don't forget to scratch now.

-Put your tongue up in front of the teeth. -(Susan blubbers)

KRIS: That's right. Talk to the other monkeys.

What's going on here?

Oh. We're just having our first lesson in pretending.

Doing quite well at it, too. That's right. Go on now.

-Call the other monkeys. -(both imitate a monkey)

Now you're a goose. No, you mustn't be a goose. Be a monkey. See? Scratch.

-Mr. Kringle? -Yes?

Mrs. Walker just happened to mention

that they're looking for a room for you here in town.

That's right. Dr. Pierce doesn't want me to make that long trip every day.

Well, I was just thinking.

I'm all alone in my apartment.

Twin beds... and plenty of room.

Um, if you'd like to move in with me, I'd be only too happy to have you.

That's awfully nice of you.

You could ride to and from work every day with Mrs. Walker and...

Yes.

Give me a chance to really talk things over with her.

(imitates monkey)

Now, don't forget to scratch. You're not scratching. You're not--

Besides, I could see Susie now and then.

Mr. Gailey, it's a deal.

-Good. -(phone ringing)

We'll drive out after dinner and get your things.

-Thanks. -Hello? Oh, yes. Just a moment.

-It's a Mr. Shellhammer. -Thanks.

Hello? Hello, Mr. Shellhammer.

Yes. Just a moment. Mrs. Shellhammer wants to talk to you.

I made the martinis triple strength, and she feels wonderful.

-(giggling) -Here, my pet.

Thank you. Hello?

-Hello? -No, no, no, no. No, dear.

(laughs) Thank you, darling.

-Hello! -No, no, no, dear.

-There. -Oh, darling, how silly of me.

Hello!

Why, we'd love to have Santa Claus come and stay with us.

Mm-hmm.

I think it would be simply charming.

Oh, and so do I, Mrs. Shellhammer. Just a moment.

It's Mrs. Shellhammer, and they have the loveliest room,

and they'd be so happy if you'd stay with them.

That's very sweet of them. Please thank them very much.

-But I'm going to stay with Mr. Gailey. -Mr. Gailey?

I think I'd better get the meat.

I understand that, but there must be something you want for Christmas,

something you haven't even told your mother about, eh?

Ah, come on now.

Why don't you give me a chance?

Well...

That's what I want for Christmas.

KRIS: You mean a doll's house like this?

No, a real house.

If you're really Santa Claus, you can get it for me.

And if you can't, you're only a nice man with a white beard, like Mother said.

Now, wait a minute, Susie.

Just because every child can't get his wish,

that doesn't mean there isn't a Santa Claus.

That's what I thought you'd say.

No, but don't you see, dear?

Some children wish for things they couldn't possibly use.

Like real locomotives, or B-29's.

But this isn't like a locomotive or a B-29.

It's awful big for a little girl like you.

What could you possibly do with a house like this?

-Live in it with my mother. -But you've got this lovely apartment.

I don't think it's lovely.

I want a backyard with a great big tree to put a swing on and--

I guess you can't get it, huh?

I didn't say that.

No.

Well, it's a tall order,

but I'll do my best.

May I keep this picture?

Mm-hmm.

Thank you.

-Good night, Susie. -Good night, Mr. Kringle.

-Nice place you've got here. -Oh, was I lucky to get it!

KRIS: You, uh, you like living in Manhattan?

Oh, it's all right.

Of course, someday, I'd like to get a place on Long Island.

Not a big house, just one of those junior partner deals around Manhasset.

I know just the kind of place you mean.

One of those little, uh, colonial houses.

Mm-hmm. Either that or a cape cod.

Yeah. You know, I think you're right about Mrs. Walker.

A little more effort on your part, and she might crawl out of that shell.

Take her out to dinner or the theater.

Mmm. I've tried that. She's always too busy with her job.

Well, try a little harder.

Those two are a couple of lost souls, and it's up to us to help them.

I'll take care of Susie, if you'll take care of her mother.

-It's a deal. -Good. Ready?

Oh, no, you don't. I'm not going to be cheated this way.

All my life I've wondered something, and now's my chance to find out.

I'm going to find the answer to a question that's puzzled the world for centuries.

Does Santa Claus sleep with his whiskers outside, or in?

Always sleep with them out.

Cold air makes them grow.

Ah.

Joe, we're running out of books.

JOE: I'll get some for you right away.

WOMAN: And I need some more Wanamaker's!

Yes, I know just what you want.

We don't carry that brand, but I think Gimbels does.

Let me see. Yes, here it is!

I thought I noticed it before... 2.98.

-Looks like an exceptional bargain. -Yes. Yes, it does.

-Thank you. -Not at all. Not at all.

And why didn't one of you think of this idea?

It's the greatest goodwill policy I ever heard of.

Every shopper in New York City suddenly thinks of Macy as a benevolent soul,

thinking only of the welfare of the public.

And what does that make Gimbel? Nothing but a profiteering money-grubber!

Well, two can play at this game.

From now on, if we haven't got what the customer wants,

send him back to Macy's.

And what's more, we'll do the same thing in our stores

in Philadelphia, Milwaukee and Pittsburgh.

-Now, get to work on it right away. -MAN: Imagine a thing like that.

So, Gimbel's doing it in Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, and Milwaukee, eh?

-Yes, and very successfully. -Well, we can cover the country, too.

Notify our stores in San Francisco, Atlanta, Toledo, and Newark

to get going right away.

-All right. -All right, Mr. Macy.

Look this way, Mr. Gimbel. Hold it, Mr. Gimbel.

Come on now. There. Good.

-Now we'll take some at my store. -Uh, just a minute.

I have something I'd like to give our friend here.

This is just a little something to show my appreciation for all you've done.

Thank you, Mr. Macy.

Ooh! That's very kind of you.

I didn't think you were that generous. That's a bit of money.

What are you going to do with it?

Well,

I have a friend... a doctor.

He's been very kind to me. He needs an x-ray machine.

Oh, I don't think that's going to be enough.

-I better give you-- -I'll make up the difference.

Buy it through the store, and get 10% discount.

I can get it for cost.

-Good night, Susan. -Good night, Cleo.

Now, would you like me to sing you a little good night song?

If you want to.

Doesn't your mother ever sing to you at night?

Mm-mmm. Why should she?

Oh, no reason. I-- I just think it's kind of nice.

-Do you like "Market"? -All right.

♪ To market, to market to buy a fat pig ♪

♪ Home again, home again jiggety jig ♪

♪ To market, to market to buy a fat hog ♪

♪ Home again, home again jiggety... ♪

Amazing.

Do you happen to have a spare piece?

Mm-hmm.

Well, here goes.

(bubble pops)

Oh! (groans)

(spits)

-Hello, Alfred. -Hello, Kris.

How about a little game of checkers after lunch, eh?

Not today, Kris. I don't feel like it.

-Oh, what's the matter? -Nothing. Nothing.

Well, something is wrong. What is it?

Well...

Remember I was telling you how I liked to play Santa Claus

over at the Y on Christmas,

-and give out packages to the young kids? -Yeah.

Well, I was telling that to Mr. Sawyer, see, and...

Well, he says that's very bad.

Sawyer? You mean...

ALFRED: That's the one. He's a psy-- a psychologist, you know.

Well, that's a debatable point.

Why is it bad? Does he say?

Oh, sure.

He says that

guys who dress up like Santa Claus, see, and give presents away,

do it because when they was young, they must've did something bad,

and they feel guilty about it.

So now they do something they think is good to make up for it, see?

It's what he calls "a guilt complex."

-How old are you, Alfred? -Seventeen.

Seventeen.

It doesn't seem you've had time to be guilty

of anything much except overeating.

It's nothing to laugh about, Kris. It's pretty serious, he says.

It's a lot of rubbish, Alfred. Don't listen to him.

Oh, he knows what he's talking about.

He's been studying that stuff for a long time.

Oh. Well, what's the basis of this guilt complex you're supposed to have?

Does he say that?

Well, he ain't found out yet.

It's probably way down inside of me someplace, see?

Maybe something that happened to me when I was a baby, he says.

It takes time, but he'll do it, he says.

You mean you're going to him again?

Oh, sure. I go every day

for a little while, after I finish my lunch.

Uh, he don't soak me nothin'.

He's doing it for free 'cause-- 'cause I'm an interesting case.

Yes. What else has he found wrong with you, Alfred?

Anything else?

No. Oh, just that I hate my father.

I didn't know it, but he says I do.

And he sees you every day?

Yeah, I just sit in a chair and say anything that comes into my head.

Excuse me, Alfred. A few things have just come into my head,

and I'm going to say them.

(door opens)

MR. SAWYER: What do you mean, bursting into my office like this?

-Are you a licensed psychiatrist? -What business is it of yours?

I have great respect for psychiatry.

And great contempt for meddling amateurs who go around practicing it.

You have no more right to analyze Alfred

than a dentist has to remove a gallbladder.

-I beg your pardon! -Your job here, I understand,

is to give intelligence tests.

Passing yourself off as a psychologist! You ought to be horsewhipped!

Taking a normal, impressionable boy like Alfred

and filling him up with complexes and phobias.

I think I'm better equipped to judge that than you are.

Just because the boy wants to be good and kind to children

you tell him he has a guilt complex!

SAWYER: Having the same delusion, you couldn't possibly understand.

The boy is definitely maladjusted. I--

Maladjusted? You talk about maladjustment?

Seems to me the patient is running the clinic here.

I won't stand--

Leave this office immediately.

Stop analyzing Alfred,

or I tell Mr. Macy what a malicious, contemptible fraud you are.

Get out, before I have you thrown out.

There's only one way to handle a man like you.

You won't listen to reason. You're heartless.

-You have no humanity. -Are you going to leave?

Yes.

-(thud) -Ah!

-Kris? -Mr. Sawyer!

-Mr. Sawyer, are you all right? -Look at that bump!

Mr. Saw-- He's unconscious. Better get a wet towel.

-No, better get a doctor. -Mr. Sawyer!

DORIS: You must have done something to him.

I tell you, we were merely talking.

The moment I mentioned Santa Claus,

the moment I attacked his delusion, he became violent.

I told you he had latent maniacal tendencies.

Well, I think this pr-- proves it.

Maybe we'd better have Dr. Pierce give him another examination.

Dr. Pierce! He doesn't know anything about this sort of thing.

-He's a general practitioner. -You must admit, this is rather serious.

Perhaps we'd better get a competent psychiatrist.

But he's taken dozens of those examinations and passed them all 100%.

Well, in view of this, it's possible his condition has changed.

I don't think we can take any chances, really. I don't.

I can't see any harm in it.

If he passes the test, he can return to work immediately.

-And if he doesn't, well it--

it's better we find out. -I suppose so.

You better have the examination right away, before he tells Mr. Ma--

Before Mr. Macy finds out.

Oh, yes. Oh, my, yes. You explain to Mr. Kringle. You're a friend of his.

I won't do it. I can't do it.

I've grown fond of him. This would be like telling him that I thought he was insane.

Well, you don't call this "acting normal," do you?

Of course I don't!

But there are thousands of other old people who aren't normal either.

This is going to hurt Kris very deeply, and I don't want to be the one to do it!

(slams door)

I don't think that would be very fair to him. I'll tell him the truth.

I always believe in being truthful with people.

If he sees me, or if you mention psychiatrists,

it's more or less attacking his delusion again.

He's apt to become violent.

But in front of the children? Oh, but that'd be terrible.

Well, you'd better get him out of the store on some other pretext.

Then, once outside, I'll explain it to him.

All right. If you think that it's better that way.

Please keep a straight line. All day long to see Santa Claus.

Ow!

-Mr. Kringle. -Yeah?

Mrs. Walker wanted to tell you that we're going

to take publicity pictures this afternoon

down at the city hall. You and the mayor.

Good. Like to meet him.

A few things I'd like to talk over with him.

Oh, but I've made an appointment with Mr. Macy at four o'clock.

Want to tell him about something.

You'll be back in plenty of time. Now, there's a car waiting for you downstairs.

It's starting to drizzle. You'll need a coat. I'll get it.

Thanks. I'll be right with you.

Just want to take care of a few of these kiddies first.

All right.

-Where to? -Bellevue.

Bellevue?

-Did she know about this? -Yes. We all discussed it.

The second party shall,

in consideration of the property hereby agreed to, be conveyed

-by the first party to the second party-- -(ringing)

-Excuse me, Gertrude, telephone. -(ringing)

Hello. Yes? Yes.

Why, yes, we share an apartment together.

Bellevue? But why, doctor? What did he--

Oh, he's quite comfortable.

He's going to be with us for a few days,

and he was wondering if you could bring over his personal things.

Yes.

Yes, in view of his examination,

I'm afraid I shall have to recommend commitment.

Well, yes, I-- I know, Mr. Gailey, but I'd rather speak to you in person.

I'll be right over, doctor.

(buzzer buzzing)

-MAN: See the new patient. -Thanks.

Not at all.

-Hello, Kris. -Hello, Fred.

Why'd you do it, Kris?

You deliberately failed that examination, didn't you?

-Why? -Why?

Because the last few days, I've had great hope.

I had a feeling Doris was beginning to believe in me.

Now I find out she was only just humoring me, all the time.

But I just talked to her on the phone.

She didn't know anything about that taking pictures with the mayor.

-That was Sawyer's idea. -Hmm?

Well, I'm glad of that.

But why didn't she come to me and explain the whole thing?

She didn't want to hurt you.

Only because I was a nice, kind, old man, and she was sorry for me.

-That's not true. -Yes, it is. She had doubts.

That's why she was just sorry.

If you'd been dragged off here instead of me, she wouldn't have been sorry.

She'd have been furious.

All right. She had doubts. Why not?

She hasn't really believed in anything for years.

-You can't expect her to suddenly-- -It's not just Doris.

There's Mr. Sawyer. He's contemptible, dishonest,

selfish, deceitful, vicious.

Yet, he's out there, and I'm in here.

He's called normal, and I'm not.

Well, if that's normal, I don't want it.

That's why I answered the questions incorrectly.

But, Kris, you can't just think of yourself.

What happens to you matters to a lot of other people.

People like me, who believe in what you stand for.

And people like Susie, who are just beginning to.

You can't quit. You can't let them down.

No, I suppose I shouldn't.

Who knows? Maybe someday the Sawyers will be in here instead of out there.

You're right. I ought to be ashamed of myself.

Even if we can't win, we can go down swinging. Let's get out of here.

Now, wait a minute. You're forgetting. You flunked your examination but good.

(chuckling) Oh, yes. I forgot.

I said Calvin Coolidge was the first president.

I can imagine what they're thinking of me for saying that.

But you'll get me out of this. You'll think of something.

It's not gonna be easy, Kris.

Oh, it will be for you. I believe you're the greatest lawyer since Darrow.

Just a second, Kris. You're putting me in an awful spot.

But I believe in you. You can't let me down.

But you don't understand--

-I'll do everything I can, Kris. -Thank you.

-Goodbye. -KRIS: Bye.

MACY: That's a lot of nonsense. Dangerous, my foot!

I don't care if he failed 10 examinations. You had no right to do it.

Now, you get the case dropped tomorrow,

or you might have another lump to match the one Kris gave you!

Yes, Mr. Macy.

"Age unknown." Old man, huh?

-Very old, Your Honor. -I suppose I'll have to read all this.

You can take my word for it. Just routine commitment papers. Cut and dried.

The man calls himself Kris Kringle. Thinks he's Santa Claus.

Uh-oh.

-(knocking) -Come in.

Mr. Gailey to see you, Your Honor. He represents Mr. Kringle.

Better show him in.

Good morning. Your Honor, there seems to be undue haste in this case.

I wish to protect my client's rights, as I'm sure you do.

Of course, of course.

If Your Honor please,

I request a formal hearing to which I may bring witnesses.

I thought you said this was cut and dried.

That's what I was told.

I didn't know anything about a protest.

You may sign commitment papers now, if you wish, Your Honor,

But I shall bring in a habeas corpus this afternoon.

There's no point in signing.

We'll have a hearing on, uh, Monday morning at ten o'clock.

Thank you. Good day.

Thank you.

Uh, that man. I heard him say something about Mr. Kringle before. Who is he?

His name is Gailey. Kringle's lawyer.

Probably grabbed the case to get some cheap publicity.

Publicity? Oh, we can't have that, Mr. Mara.

Mr. Macy would rather drop the whole thing right now.

Well, it can't be done. It's too late now.

Kringle has been examined by psychiatrists at a city hospital.

-It has to go through the regular routine. -Oh, we must avoid publicity.

I-- oh.

Mr. Gailey, I represent Mr. Macy. My name's Sawyer.

-Oh, so you're Sawyer. -Yes.

(nervous chuckle) Now, regarding this Kringle matter,

we're very anxious to avoid publicity of any kind.

-Naturally. -So, if you would agree to put this matter

through, uh, quietly,

I'm sure we could find some generous way of expressing our appreciation.

-Very interesting. -Then you'll cooperate?

Very interesting. Publicity. Hmm.

You know, that's not a bad idea.

If I'm going to win this case,

I'm going to have to have public opinion, and plenty of it.

And publicity's just the way to do it.

Thanks, Mr. Sawyer.

Oh, Mr. Gailey. Mr. Gailey, wait.

Mr. Gailey, one moment, please.

Well, I-- I don't see what they're making such a fuss about.

After all, he's an old man and--

How you been feeling lately, Henry? You look a little run down.

Me? Why, I feel fine. Never better.

Why don't you go and see the doc, take a few weeks off?

-Go fishing. Go hunting. Go anyplace. -Why should I?

Because this Kringle case is dynamite.

Let some judge handle it that isn't coming up for reelection.

-I can't do that. -Henry, listen. I'm no legal brain trust.

I don't know a habeas from a corpus.

But I do know politics. That's my racket.

I got you elected, didn't I? And I'm going to try to get you reelected.

I know, Charlie. Don't misunderstand me.

I appreciate everything that you've done for me.

-I'm telling you to get off this case. -But why?

Because you're a regular Pontius Pilate the minute you start. That's why.

Oh, I don't believe it.

I'm an honest man,

and nobody's going to hold it against me for doing my duty as I see it.

Grandma! Grandma! Grandma! Grandma!

(chuckles) Good night, Terry.

Good night, Alice.

Now, straight to bed.

I promised your mother you'd be in bed by eight o'clock,

and it's way past.

Aren't you coming too?

I'll be up in a minute to tuck you in. Now, scoot!

Now, how about a great big kiss for grandpa, hmm?

-Hmph! -Hmph!

A fine way to treat their grandfather! No hug, no kiss, no anything!

I don't blame them. Any man who puts Santa Claus on trial for lunacy!

See what I mean?

(door closes)

Hey.

(chattering)

Oh, don't worry about me. I've got the best lawyer in the world.

-H-how long do you think this will take? -Maybe a week.

A week? That seems impossible. All that has to be done is--

You don't think that lawyer'll be

stupid enough to let him admit anything, do you?

He's naturally going to deny everything,

and I'll bring witnesses, and he'll bring witnesses.

-(gavel rapping) -BAILIFF: Hear ye, hear ye, hear ye.

All persons having business

with the special term, part 3 of the Supreme Court

held in and for the County of New York,

draw near and give your attendance, and ye shall be heard.

In the matter of Kris Kringle, Your Honor, the commitment papers are before you.

If Your Honor please, I should like to call the first witness.

Mr. Kringle, will you take the stand?

Good morning, Your Honor.

You do solemnly swear that the testimony

you are about to give in the cause before this court

shall be the truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth, so help you God?

-I do. -Uh...

Before you begin, Mr. Mara, I want to explain to the witness

that this is a hearing, not a trial.

Mr. Kringle, you don't have to answer any questions against your wishes,

or even testify at all.

We have no objection, Your Honor.

Oh, I'll be glad to answer any questions I can.

-What is your name?

Kris Kringle.

-Where do you live? -That's what this hearing will decide.

(spectators laughing)

(gavel rapping)

A very sound answer, Mr. Kringle.

-Do you believe that you're Santa Claus? -Of course.

The state rests, Your Honor.

Well, Mr. Gailey, do you wish to cross-examine the witness?

I believe he was employed to "play" Santa Claus.

Perhaps he didn't understand the question correctly.

Oh, I understood the question perfectly, Your Honor.

No further questions at this time.

Thank you.

In view of this statement, do you still wish to put in a defense, young man?

I do, Your Honor.

I'm fully aware of my client's opinions.

In fact, that's the entire case against him.

All these complicated tests and reports boil down to this:

Mr. Kringle is not sane because he believes himself to be Santa Claus.

An entirely logical and reasonable assumption, I'm afraid.

It would be if the clerk here,

or Mr. Mara, or I believed that we were Santa Claus.

Anyone who thinks he's Santa Claus is not sane!

Not necessarily.

You believe yourself to be Judge Harper,

yet no one questions your sanity because you are Judge Harper.

I know all about myself, young man.

Mr. Kringle is the subject of this hearing.

Yes, Your Honor.

And, if he is the person he believe himself to be, just as you are,

then he's just as sane.

-Granted, but he isn't. -Oh, but he is, Your Honor.

Is what?

I intend to prove that Mr. Kringle is Santa Claus.

(spectators clamoring)

He's crazy, too.

(gavel rapping)

(buzzer buzzing)

-Hello. -Hello, darling. Sorry I'm late.

Get your coat. I reserved our regular table at Luigi's.

We're going to celebrate.

-What are we celebrating? -Read all about it!

Gailey throws bombshell in New York Supreme Court.

-Yes, I read that. -Oh, I didn't see this--

front page! Good, good.

-You're not serious about this. -Of course I am.

But you can't possibly prove that he's Santa Claus.

Why not? You saw Macy and Gimbel shaking hands.

That wasn't possible either, but it happened.

-Honestly, Fred-- -It's the best defense I can use.

Completely logical and completely unexpected.

And completely idiotic.

What about your bosses, Haislip and Mackenzie, and the rest of them?

What do they say?

That I'm jeopardizing the prestige and dignity of an old established law firm,

and either I drop this impossible case immediately, or they will drop me.

-See? -I beat them to it. I quit.

-Fred, you didn't! -Of course I did. I can't let Kris down.

He needs me, and all the rest of us need him.

Look, darling, he's a nice old man,

and I admire you for wanting to help him,

but you've got to be realistic and face facts.

You can't just throw your career away because of a sentimental whim.

But I'm not throwing my career away.

But if Haislip feels that way, so will every other law firm in town.

I'm sure they will. Then I'll open my own office.

And what kind of cases will you get?

Oh, probably a lot of people like Kris that are being pushed around.

That's the only fun in law anyway.

I promise you, if you believe in me and have faith in me, everything will...

You don't have any faith in me, do you?

It's not a question of faith. It's just common sense.

Faith is believing in things when common sense tells you not to.

It's not just Kris that's on trial. It's everything he stands for.

Oh, Fred.

It's kindness, joy, love, and all the other intangibles.

Oh, Fred, you're talking like a child. You're living in a realistic world.

And those lovely intangibles of yours are attractive, but not worth very much.

You don't get ahead that way.

That all depends on what you call "getting ahead."

Evidently, you and I have different definitions.

These last few days we've talked about some wonderful plans.

Then you go on an idealistic binge.

You give up your job, you throw away all your security,

and then you expect me to be happy about it!

Yes, I guess I expected too much.

Look, Doris, someday you're going to find out your way of facing

this realistic world just doesn't work.

When you do, don't overlook those lovely intangibles.

You'll discover they're the only things that are worthwhile.

These reporters make me look like a sadistic monster

who likes to drown cats and tear the wings off butterflies.

-But this old man is-- -Oh, Tommy,

go in and get Mother's scissors, will you?

They're in the bedroom. That's a good boy.

I don't want you to discuss this case in front of him. It would break his heart.

And while we're on the subject, I agree with the reporters.

Mr. Kringle seems to be a nice old man,

and I don't see why you have to keep persecuting him.

Firstly, I am not persecuting him. I am prosecuting him.

And secondly, I like the old man, too.

I wish I'd never gotten into this,

but it's too late now, and there's nothing I can do about it.

It's up to the State of New York, and I'm just their duly appointed

legal representative.

Kringle has been declared a menace to society by competent doctors,

and it's my duty to protect the State of New York and see that he's put away.

No matter what they may say about me, I've got to do it.

Sometimes, I wish I'd married a butcher or plumber.

Well, my dear, if I lose this case,

it's very possible that you'll get your wish.

Hello, Kris.

-Your name? -R. H. Macy.

You are the owner of one of the biggest department stores

in New York City?

The biggest.

Mr. Macy, if you recognize the gentleman seated there,

-will you tell us who he is? -Kris Kringle.

Your employee, is he not?

-Yes. -Do you believe him to be truthful?

Yes.

-Do you believe him to be of sound mind? -I certainly do.

Mr. Macy, you're under oath. Do you really believe that this man is Santa Claus?

Well, I...

Well he gives every indication--

I asked you, Mr. Macy, do you really believe that this man is Santa Claus?

-I do. -(spectators laughing)

-That's all. -(gavel rapping)

Psychologist! Where'd you graduate from, a correspondence school?

You're fired.

Your Honor, I object to this testimony.

It's ridiculous, irrelevant and immaterial.

Mr. Gailey is making a circus of this court.

There is no such person as Santa Claus, and everybody knows it.

Your Honor, I submit it's purely a matter of opinion.

Can Mr. Mara offer any proof there is no Santa Claus?

No, and I do not intend to.

This is not a nursery. It's the New York State Supreme Court.

I'll not waste this court's time with such childish nonsense.

Mr. Mara seems to have appointed himself the judge here, Your Honor.

He's now ruling on what testimony I may introduce.

Your Honor, we request an immediate ruling from this court.

Is there, or is there not, a Santa Claus?

-Well-- -(Charlie clears throat)

The court will take a short recess to consider the matter.

I don't care what you do with old whisker puss,

but if you go back in there and rule that there's no Santa Claus,

you better start looking for that chicken farm right now.

Why, we won't even be able to put you in the primaries.

But, Charlie, listen to reason. I'm a responsible judge.

I've taken an oath. How can I seriously rule that there is a Santa Claus?

Why don't you loo--

All right.

You go back and tell them that the New York State Supreme Court rules

there's no Santa Claus.

It's all over the papers.

The kids read it, and they don't hang up their stockings.

What happens to all the toys that are supposed to be in those stockings?

Nobody buys them. The toy manufacturers are going to like that.

So they have to lay off a lot of their employees. Union employees.

Now you got the CIO and the AF of L against you,

and they're going to adore you for it.

And they're going to say it with votes.

Oh, and the department stores are going to love you, too.

And the Christmas card makers. And the candy companies.

(chuckles) Oh, Henry, you're going to be an awful popular fella.

And what about the Salvation Army?

Why, they've got a Santy Claus on every corner,

and they take in a fortune.

But you go ahead, Henry. You do it your way.

You go on back in there, and tell them that you rule there's no Santy Claus.

Go on.

But if you do, remember this.

You can count on getting just two votes:

your own, and that District Attorney's out there.

The District Attorney's a republican.

-(gavel rapping) -BAILIFF: All rise!

(gavel rapping)

Before making a ruling,

this court has consulted the highest authority available.

The question of Santa Claus seems to be largely a matter of opinion.

Many people firmly believe in him.

Others do not.

The tradition of American justice

demands a broad and unprejudiced view of such a controversial matter.

This court, therefore, intends to keep an open mind.

We shall hear evidence on either side.

He's crazy too!

Your Honor, the burden of proof for this ridiculous contention

clearly rests with my opponent.

Can he produce any evidence to support his views?

If Your Honor please, I can.

-Will Thomas Mara please take the stand? -Who, me?

Thomas Mara, Jr.

Hello, Daddy.

Here, Tommy.

Tommy, you know the difference

between telling the truth and telling a lie, don't you?

Gosh, everybody knows you shouldn't tell a lie, especially in court.

-(spectators chuckling) -Proceed, Mr. Gailey.

-Do you believe in Santa Claus, Tommy? -Sure, I do.

He gave me a brand-new Flexible Flyer Sled last year.

-And this year-- -And, uh, what does he look like?

There he is, sitting there!

Your Honor, I protest!

Overruled.

Tell me, Tommy, why are you so sure there's a Santa Claus?

Because my daddy told me so.

Didn't you, Daddy?

(spectators chuckling)

And you believe your daddy, don't you? He's a very honest man.

Course he is. My daddy wouldn't tell me anything that wasn't so.

Would you, Daddy?

(spectators laughing)

Thank you, Tommy.

Goodbye, Daddy.

(spectators laughing)

Your Honor...

Don't forget! A real, official football helmet.

Don't worry, Tommy. You'll get it.

(spectators chuckling)

Your Honor, the State of New York concedes the existence of Santa Claus.

(spectators laughing)

But, in so conceding,

we ask that Mr. Gailey cease presenting personal opinion as evidence.

The State could bring in hundreds of witnesses with opposite opinions.

But it's our desire to shorten this hearing rather than prolong it.

I therefore request that Mr. Gailey now submit authoritative proof

that Mr. Kringle is the one and only Santa Claus.

Your point's well-taken, Mr. Mara.

I'm afraid we must agree.

Mr. Gailey, are you prepared to show that Mr. Kringle is Santa Claus,

on the basis of competent authority?

Not at this time, Your Honor. I ask for an adjournment until tomorrow.

The court stands adjourned until tomorrow afternoon at three o'clock.

Well, I-- I guess that's that.

There's a way, Alfred. There's got to be.

(crowd chattering)

Well, it's hard to explain.

You see, they're having, well, sort of a trial about him.

You mean like for a murder?

No, no. It isn't that kind of a trial.

It's just because he says he's Santa Claus.

But I've got a feeling he is Santa Claus, Mother.

Some people don't believe that. That's why they're having this--

But he's so kind and nice and jolly.

He's not like anyone else. He must be Santa.

I think perhaps you're right, Susie.

Is Mr. Kringle sad now, Mother?

I'm afraid he is. I'm sure he misses you and--

Then I'm going to write him a letter right now and cheer him up.

(machinery clanging)

-Hey, Lou! Come here. -Yeah.

Hey, here's a new one. I seen 'em write to Santa Claus,

North Pole, South Pole, and every other place.

Here's a kid writes, "Kris Kringle, New York County Courthouse."

-Can you beat that? -The kid's right.

They got him on trial down there.

He claims that he's Santy Claus, and the D.A. Claims he's nuts.

Here. Read it for yourself. Right on the front page.

Hey, uh-- hey, Lou,

how many Santy Claus letters we got down at the dead letter office?

I don't know. There must be about 50,000 of 'em.

Bags and bags all over the joint, and there's more comin' in every day.

-Yeah. Hey, uh-- hey, Lou. -Yeah.

Uh, it'd be kind of nice to get rid of 'em, huh?

Yeah, but...

Hey, that's a wonderful idea, Al.

I mean, after all, why should we be bothered with all that stuff, huh?

Why don't you get a couple of trucks up here. Big ones, right away?

Load 'em with Santa Claus mail and deliver it to Mr. Kringle

down at the courthouse.

-Let somebody else worry about it, huh? -Hey, Frank!

♪ Hey... ♪

♪ Jingle bells, jingle bells Jingle all the way ♪

(indistinct chattering)

-Hello, Kris. -Fred.

Kris, I'm afraid I've got bad news for you.

I've tried every way to get some competent authority.

I've wired the governor, the mayor. I even wired--

This is worth more to me

than all the governors and mayors in the world.

It's all over, George. Look at him. He hasn't got a thing.

And furthermore, the defense has yet to offer

one concrete piece of evidence

to substantiate this preposterous claim.

Not one competent authoritative proof that this man is Santa Claus.

In view of these facts, and especially since today is Christmas Eve,

we're naturally all anxious to get to our homes,

I ask that you sign the commitment papers without further delay.

Mr. Gailey, have you anything further to offer?

Yes, I have, Your Honor.

I'd like to submit the following facts in evidence.

It concerns the Post Office Department,

an official agency of the United States government.

"the Post Office Department was created by the 2nd Continental Congress

"on July 26, 1776.

"The first postmaster general was Benjamin Franklin.

"The Post Office Department is one

of the largest business concerns in the world.

Last year, under Robert Hannegan, it did a gross business

Of $1,112,877,174."

Your Honor, I'm sure we're all gratified

to know the Post Office Department is doing so nicely,

but it hardly has any bearing on this case.

It has a great deal, Your Honor, if I may be allowed to proceed.

By all means, Mr. Gailey.

Your Honor, the figures I have just quoted

indicate an efficiently run organization.

Furthermore, the United States' postal laws and regulations

make it a criminal offense

to willfully misdirect mail,

or intentionally deliver it to the wrong party.

Consequently, the department uses every possible precaution.

Your Honor, the State of New York is second to none

in its admiration of the Post Office Department.

It is efficient, authoritative, and prosperous.

We are very happy to concede Mr. Gailey's claims.

-Um, for the record, Mr. Mara? -For the record.

Anything to get on with this case.

Then, Your Honor, I want to introduce these pieces

-of evidence. -I'll take them, please.

FRED: I have here three letters.

They're addressed, simply, "Santa Claus." no other address whatsoever.

Yet these letters have just now been delivered to Mr. Kringle

by bona fide employees of the post office.

I offer them as positive proof that a competent--

Uh, three letters, Your Honor, are hardly positive proof.

I understand the post office receives thousands of these letters every year.

I have further exhibits, Your Honor, but I hesitate to produce them.

I'm sure we'll be very happy to see them.

Yes. Yes, produce them, Mr. Gailey. Put them here on my desk.

-But, Your Honor-- -Put them here on the desk.

-Put them on the desk. -Yes, Your Honor.

(spectators chuckling)

-(gavel rapping) -GAINEY: Your Honor!

-(gavel rapping) -Your Honor!

(gavel rapping)

Your Honor, every one of these letters is addressed to Santa Claus.

The post office has delivered them.

Therefore, the Post Office Department, a branch of the federal government,

recognizes this man, Kris Kringle,

to be the one and only Santa Claus.

Since the United States government declares this man to be Santa Claus,

this court will not dispute it.

Case dismissed.

(cheering)

I gotta get that football helmet.

Thank you so much, Your Honor, and a very merry Christmas to you.

Thank you, Mr. Kringle, and the same to you.

Thank you.

DORIS: Kris.

I had to wait to tell you.

-I got your note. It made me very happy. -Oh, I'm so glad.

We're having a big Christmas party at the Brooks Home tomorrow morning.

Breakfast, a beautiful tree and...

I'd like to have you and Susan.

Oh, thank you. I can't think of anyone I'd rather spend Christmas with.

-(chuckles) -Would you--

would you like to come to dinner tonight?

Tonight? Oh, I can't. It's Christmas Eve.

-Oh, I forgot. -Goodbye.

(chattering)

♪ "Santa Claus is Coming to Town" plays ♪

KRIS: Come in!

Oh, my dear sir. You know my assistant Alfred, Mr. Macy.

-Merry Christmas, Alfred. -Mr. Macy.

Mr. Shellhammer, there's something I'd like to show you.

-Hello, Alfred. -Mr. Macy!

(chattering)

MAN: Oh, excuse me.

Kris, all I can say is

the State Supreme Court declared you to be Santa Claus,

and, personally and professionally, I agree with them.

But there are lots of presents there for you, darling.

Not the one I wanted. Not the one Mr. Kringle was going to get for me.

-What was that? -It doesn't matter. I didn't get it.

I knew it wouldn't be here,

but I thought there'd be a letter or something telling me.

I don't suppose you even want to talk to me.

-Something about a present. -Yes, I know.

I'm sorry, Susie. I tried my best, but--

You couldn't get it because you're not Santa Claus. That's why.

You're just a nice old man with whiskers, like my mother said,

and I shouldn't have believed you.

I was wrong when I told you that, Susie.

You must believe in Mr. Kringle and keep right on doing it.

You must have faith in him.

But he didn't get me the--

That doesn't make sense, Mommy.

Faith is believing in things when common sense tells you not to.

Huh?

I mean, just because things don't turn out

the way you want them to the first time,

you've still got to believe in people.

I found that out.

You mean it's like, "If at first you don't succeed, try, try again."

-Yes. -I thought so.

-May I drive you home? -Thank you.

If you'll go this way, you'll miss a lot of traffic.

I've written it all down.

You go along Maplewood until you come to Ashley.

I believe. I believe. It's silly, but I believe.

Thanks, Kris. That'll be fine. Merry Christmas.

Merry Christmas to you.

And to you, my dear, and many of them.

-Goodbye, Kris. -Goodbye, my dear.

-KRIS: Goodbye, and the best of all luck. -Goodbye, Miss Walker.

-Goodbye, Alfred. -Goodbye, Susie.

This must be the turn here.

That's right. Ashley.

Now you go straight for four blocks.

(quietly) I believe. I believe.

Stop, Uncle Fred! Stop!

Stop! Stop!

DORIS: Susie! Susie!

Susie, where are you going?

What is she doing?

Susie! Susie!

-Susie! Susie! Susie! -Susie, where are you?

-SUSAN: I'm upstairs! -Come right down.

You shouldn't run around in other people's houses.

You know better than that.

But this is my house, Mommy, the one I asked Mr. Kringle for.

-Now, Susie. -It is, it is! I know it is!

My room upstairs is just like I knew it would be.

Oh, you were right, Mommy.

Mommy told me if things

don't turn out just the way you want them to the first time,

you've still got to believe, and I kept believing, and you were right, Mommy!

Mr. Kringle is Santa Claus!

-Where are you going? -To see if there's a swing!

There is one! There is one!

(door opening)

You told her that?

The sign outside said it's for sale.

We can't let her down.

I never really doubted you. It was just my silly common sense.

It even makes sense to believe in me now.

I must be a pretty good lawyer.

I take a little old man, and legally prove to the world that he's Santa Claus.

Now, you know that--

Oh, no. It can't be.

It must have been left here by the people that moved out.

Maybe.

Maybe I didn't do such a wonderful thing after all.

♪♪