Original subtitles

[ theme music playing ]

What the devil are you doing?

Layin' a trail of powder, that's what I'm doin'.

What's inside there?

The rest of the powder.

You mean you're deliberately gonna--

It's my shack, yeah?Well, yeah.

Man, you'd better get out of here.

When that goes off,

it's gonna make a powerful loud bang.

Any particular reason?Yeah.

I finally got smart.

You know what today is?

Tuesday.My birthday.

40 miserable years ago, I set out prospecting

to make a fortune for myself.

40 years wasted lookin' for gold.

What did I finally wind up with?

Half a keg of blastin' powder and that crummy shack.

Well, I'm gettin' rid of both of 'em together.

Then I'm goin' into town to get myself an honest job.

You don't have to blow it up. You can sell the shack.

To who? Who'd buy it?

Somebody dumb enough to think there's gold in these hills.

That ain't likely.

That ain't likely at all.

Well, you'd better take cover.

I'm gonna set her off now.

Looks like there was a little more left than I thought!

Whew!

Hey! Hey!

You all right?

You hurt bad?

You take it easy. I'll get some water, and we'll--

Gold!

[ laughs ]

All these years, I've been sittin' on pure gold!

[ laughing ]

[ train whistle blowing ]

Howdy there, Judge.Good afternoon.

I guess you don't remember me.

I'm J. Jimerson Jones.

You let me sleep in your bunkhouse about eight years back.

I was prospecting through that way.

Oh. Yes, yes.

How you been, Judge?

Well...fine, thank you.

Um...

Your daughter?Yes.

Sure has grown up.

This is Mr. Jones, Betsy.

How do you do?

I'm doin' fine, Miss Betsy.

You, uh, traveling far?

Chicago.

Now, don't that beat all? That's where I'm headin'.

Oh. Well...

Expect you've been there before.

Yes.

Up to now, Medicine Bow is the biggest town I ever been in.

Oh? Well...

But I'm gonna make up for lost time.

Where you stayin' in Chicago?

I always stay at the Palmer House.

Oh, yeah? Good house? Good board?

Clean beds? No critters in 'em?

About the best you can find.

Well, that's good enough for me.

I'll see you later, Judge.

He seems like a nice, friendly person.

We have a nice two-bedroom and parlor suite for you, Judge.

That'll be fine.

[ hits bell ] Front boy!

Suite 506.Yes, sir.

If you'll just follow me, sir.

JONES: Quit botherin' me! Don't bother me!

Let go of that, you thieving varmint, you!

What kind of town is this? This is a den of thieves.

Must be one to a hundred tried to steal this bag on me.

Can I help you?

You Mr. Palmer?

What did you wish to see Mr. Palmer about?

I want to get fixed up for room and board.

I handle those things. Do you have a reservation?

What do you mean, a reservation?

What do you think I am, a danged Injun?

I'm sorry. We have nothing available.

What do you mean? I can't stay here?

That's right, sir.

Perhaps if you tried something on the, uh...

other side of town.

Mr. Jones?

Surely you must have something for my friend.

Perhaps if I spoke to the manager?

I believe we have a vacancy after all.

If you'll just sign the register.

[ hits bell ] Front boy.

Let go of it!

You got a place to store valuables?

We have a safe, sir.

All right. Tuck that in there, will you?

Sir, how-- how much is in there?

Oh, I don't know. 20,000, 25,000,

give or take a few hundred.

Don't you want a receipt?

What do I want a receipt for?

He seen me give it to you.

Hey, Judge. Let's go.

Hey, Miss Betsy.Hello.

We all gonna be in this tiny little room?

It's not a room, it's an elevator.

A what?

Elevator. It takes us up to our floor.

Now, Judge, just because I'm a greenhorn,

you shouldn't be tellin' stories like that.

Who ever heard of a room goin' up?

Grab leather, Judge! She's startin' to buck!

Come this way, please.

This way, sir.

You know, Judge, that's--

that was some experience.

[ laughs ]

Before you leave, I want to thank you

for gettin' me in here.

You don't know what it means to me to go first class

after all these years of tryin' to scrounge a meal here

and a meal there.

From the look of your bankroll downstairs,

it looks like you struck it rich.

Oh, yeah, real rich.

After prospecting all these years--

40, to be exact-- that old mountain opened up its heart,

and it was pure gold.

You wouldn't think so to look at me, though, would you?

I've been so busy tryin' to make a deal for that mine,

I haven't had any chance to buy any new duds.

I'm gonna buy some now, though.

From now on, it's gonna be nothin' but the best.

Well, I'll see you.

Will there be anything else, sir?

No, that'll be fine.

Thank you, sir.

What were you and Mr. Jones talking about?

Mr. Jones.

Where'd he get all that money?

Seems to have found a gold mine.

How wonderful.

Where are you going?Shopping.

Already?

What do you mean, already? We've been here almost an hour.

I won't be long.

Will that be all, sir?

Yes, sir, that'll be just dandy.

You sure you haven't forgotten something?

No, not a thing.

Oh, sorry, son.

Didn't mean to be unfriendly.

[ knock on door ]

[ knocking ]

Tighe, of the InterOcean.

To what do I owe this pleasure?

Why, the interest of our readers

in the wild and wooly West, Judge.

You, um...you do pretty well for yourself.

You're a newspaperman, huh?

Yes. Assistant city editor.

Oh, well, then...

I'm deeply honored.

We understand you're quite a big man in--

what's the name of that place?

Medicine Bow.Yes.

Sounds like something you take with a spoon.

That's in Montana?

Wyoming.

Hmm. Wyoming. Wyoming.

Tell me, Judge...

what is your business in the big city?

I'm afraid that's confidential.

Oh, now, Judge, come on, unbelt.

Play along with us, we'll give you a nice, big spread

on the back page of something you can take back

and show the home folks, huh?

Come on, give us a nice statement.

Very well. Mister-- What do you say your name was?

Tighe. T-I-G-H-E.

Tighe. Sounds like something you do with a rope.

[ chuckles ]

About that statement.

All right. Suppose we say something like this.

Chicago impresses me for its leadership

in meat-packing, railroading,

and for the sheer, brassy impudence

of its cub reporters.

And if one specimen of the tribe

isn't out of here in two seconds,

I shall not be held responsible for the consequences.

Now, now, wait, Judge.

Out!

[ chuckles ]

That's right, son. You're gettin' the hang of it.

How'd you make out?

Oh, like getting caught in a bear trap.

Thanks anyway for the tip.

TIGHE: Oh, miss?

I believe you dropped this.

I don't think I--

That's a man's handkerchief. So it is.

You dropped that yourself.

Seemed like a good way to open a conversation.

Don't be angry. It was the only way I could think of--

I'm sorry, but it just didn't work.

You can at least let me carry your packages for you.

No.

What more do I have to do?

You have to be introduced to me.

All right.

My name is Eddie Tighe of the Chicago InterOcean.

What's that?

It's a newspaper.

You a newspaperman?Sure.

What's your name?

I won't tell you.

Where do you think you're going?Up.

Are you following me?

That's the general idea.

Will you please stop following me?

On one condition.What's that?

That you'll permit me to call on you.

How will I explain to my father how I met you?

Don't worry about it. I'm a newspaperman.

It's my business to meet people.

Very well. You'll meet him now.

Uh, 506?

Your father's name wouldn't be Garth, would it?

How did you know?

Don't-- Don't do that.

Why not? The door's locked. I forgot my key.

I just remembered I have a very important appointment.

With the President.The President?

I'll see you later. I gotta go now.

Excuse me!

Oh! Young men.

I thought I heard voices.

So did I.

Well...

that must've cost a pretty penny.

Hey! What are you doin' with them boots?

What are you doing running around in your underwear?

It's my room. I got a right to run around any way I want.

What are you doin' here anyway?

I work here.Doin' what?

Giving out towels and washrags to rich men

who should be out workin' for a living

instead of running around their hotel rooms in their underwear.

Well, why should I work? I'm a rich man!

Because you'd be better--

Get out of here. Let me get dressed.

Gladly.

Do you have a reservation, sir?

Oh, what's the matter with everybody?

First that fella back at the counter.

Now you. Just because I'm from out west,

does that mean I have to have a reservation?

I beg your pardon--

It's all right, I ain't sore.

What's the grub for tonight?

Here, sir.

I didn't come to read. I come to eat.

It's all in there, sir.

Oh? You mean you--

you can cook up anything I want?

Yes, sir, we pride ourselves on--

Tell you what. I'd like somethin' fancy.

Somethin' you don't carry on the back of a burrow

in the middle of the desert.

I'd like some-- Well, here.

Bring me one of them there oysters.

One oyster?

You heard me. One.

Yes, sir.

One oyster.

One.

Is everything all right?

Fine, thank you, Auguste.

Except for one small detail.

How are you going to pay for all this?

By signing the bill.

And at the end of the month,

when it comes time to settle up?

Something will turn up by then.

It always does.

But let's don't waste this excellent dinner

arguing about trifles

All right.

Let's stick to important problems.

Like...when are you gonna marry me?

Heh. Well, I'm afraid that would never work,

because, you see, I wouldn't like

having to visit my husband in jail.

Well, what would you suggest?

That I get a job as a ribbon clerk?

Ribbon clerks seldom have to go to prison.

Ribbon clerks can't afford your tastes, either.

Let's face it, Julia.

Neither one of us could stand being poor.

How much money do you have?

I told you-- that's only temporary.

As soon as I find a nice, plump pigeon--

One of these days, one of your nice, plump pigeons

will coo to the police,

and you're going to fly away for five to ten years.

Don't be so self-righteous.

You work the same side of the street.

Lady confidence workers seldom go to prison.

You see, jurors are much too susceptible.

Julia, I swear.

Let me pull one good job.

Oh.

And I'll give it up.

Stop daydreaming.

You know you've been saying that for years.

Well, you have.

Your oyster, sir.

Mrs. Palmer, she don't set a very big table, does she?

Sir?

If I may suggest, sir--

the usual procedure is to swallow it whole.

I know, I know.

I just forgot.

Well, here goes.

Down the hatch.

Uh...

that don't stick very close to your bones, does it?

Perhaps a nice lobster would be more filling?

Yeah, yeah, bring me a dozen of them.

How many?

You heard me. Bring me a dozen lobsters.

Yes, sir.

Your lobster, sir.

Mean lookin' cuss, ain't he?

What are all these fellas for?

They brought the other 11 you ordered, sir.

Must be someone very important.

Or very hungry.

Would you like them one at a time

or all at once, sir?

Well, I was expecting some friends.

I guess they ain't comin'. I'll tell you what you do.

You take them there lobsters

and give 'em to all the other people here in the room.

The compliments of J. Jimerson Jones.

Yes, sir.

Well, you heard the gentleman.

Just what is going on here?

The gentleman over there

would like you each to have a lobster

with the compliments of J. Jimerson Jones.

In the first place, we just finished dinner,

and don't wish lobster for dessert.

In the second place, I don't know any J. Jimerson Jones.

Who is he?

I took the liberty of checking with the desk

when he gave his order.

It appears he discovered recently a gold mine...

somewhere out west.

Apparently it's his first taste of civilization.

On second thought, Auguste,

we'd be delighted to accept Mr. Jones' lobsters.

Uh, yes. And, um...

send over a magnum of champagne with our compliments.

Yes.

I can begin to hear those wedding bells already.

No use puttin' it off any longer.

You gotta wake up sometime.

What are you doin' here?

I ain't used all the towels you left yesterday.

Open up and swallow.

I will not.

[ coughs ]

What was that?Good for what ails you.

Best thing in the world for a millionaire's complaint.

What's that?Carousing.

How do you feel?Terrible.

How long have you been here?

Ever since four bellboys carried you off the elevator

two hours ago.

I must've had one whale of a good time.

How would you know?

The way I feel, I had to have a good time.

Oh! Don't do that!

My eyes!

Serves you right.

You ought to be ashamed of yourself.

Swellin' around all night,

drinkin' wine out of ladies' slippers.

I never done nothin' like that.

There's always a first time. You'll get around to it sooner or later.

They all do.

How come you know so much about millionaires?

I seen enough of 'em around here.

What have you got against money?

Mostly the people that's got it.

Well, I'll have you know

that I earned the money I got.

Ha!

What do you mean, ha?

I heard how you got rich.

Found a gold mine. That's work!

You ever done any prospecting?

Where would I do any prospecting around Chicago?

Well, are you just gonna lay there in bed all day?

Why don't you get up and go out

and breathe some fresh air?

'Cause you got my pants, that's why.

Millionaires.

I have some business downtown.

Tonight we'll find a new place for dinner.

That'll be fine.

You all right?

Not off your feed, are you?

No, Daddy. I'm just fine.

Well...

see you tonight.

Bye.

Whoa! Easy, Judge.

I'm breakable this morning.

What happened to you?

I listened to the owl

and looked at the elephant last night.

Yeah?

You gonna ride in that thing? Well--

I'll see you later.

Why, Mr. Jones.

Oh, good morning.

How are you feeling?

Like I was kicked in the head. Oh.

What kind of stuff was in that bottle you sent over?

I'm afraid it wasn't that bottle that caused the trouble.

You know, it was the other three you ordered after that.

Three?Mm-hmm.

Oh, it turned into quite a party.

Everyone thought you were so gallant

when you drank a toast from my slipper.

I did?Mm-hmm.

Oh, but you do that all the time.

Oh, no, I don't.Oh, come, now.

A man as worldly and sophisticated as you?

Oh, but I must be keeping you.

I know you're a busy man.

I was going out to take a walk,

breathe some fresh air, get rid of these cobwebs.

Well, what a delightful idea.

May I come with you?

Yeah, sure.

If it's all right with your fella.

Fella? Fella...

Oh, Duncan? Oh, we're just old friends.

There's no romantic involvement there, no.

He's a little too young for my taste.

I prefer a more mature man.

Shall we go?Yeah.

[ knock on door ]

Yes? Oh--Hi! Wait a minute!

You have some nerve coming back here

after the way you behaved yesterday.

I had things to do. Can I come in?No!

My father isn't here. That wouldn't be proper.

Well, I want to see you.

You'll have to come back when my father's here.

Do we have to go through all of that-- meeting your father?

Of course. Why don't you want to meet my father?

What if he doesn't like me?

My father is not the type of a man

that takes an unreasonable dislike to strangers.

How do you know that? You've never been a stranger to him.

Don't be silly. If you want to see me again,

you'll have to come back tonight and be properly introduced.

Couldn't we just go take a walk? No! No!

Yes. This is the original--

100% guaranteed satisfaction, or your money back.

A real hick-- and he's loaded.

How loaded?

He's got his own gold mine. I checked on it.

They say the gold's laying right out there on the surface.

Where is he now?

Julia's working on him.[ laughs ]

Now, there's a smart girl.

Why she ever hooked up with a penny ante grifter like you,

I don't know.

Probably because she loves me.

Besides, I've made my scores.

Just because a few deals went sour--

This one better not.

You mean you'll go in on it?

Bring him down here tonight.

I'll take a look at him.

You pay for the drinks.

How do you like it?

I bought it yesterday.

It's, uh-- It's lovely.

Isn't it a little, uh--

It's the latest thing.

Oh.

Well, perhaps a little tulle here and there.

Oh, Daddy, I'm sick and tired

of having a little tulle here and there.

It's perfect just the way it is.

Is there an occasion that goes with the dress?

There might be.Oh?

I met a boy.

When? We just got here.

Yesterday.

How?

Well...

I met him in the lobby.

You mean he just came up--

No, not exactly.

Who is this boy? Why haven't I met him?

You will...I think.

What do you mean? Either I meet him or you don't see him again.

That's just what I told him. And?

He seems to be afraid that you'll be prejudiced against him.

Nonsense! I'm a reasonable man.

I don't make snap judgments!

[ knock on door ]Maybe that's him.

"He", not "him".

Let's not quibble about my grammar.

I'm not quibbling. I--

And, Daddy, would you please remember to smile at him?

Because sometimes you look very cross

and you don't mean to be.

All right.

Hello, Eddie.

You?!

[ voice breaks ] Yes, sir.

Don't squeak.

Daddy, you promised.

I said I wouldn't make any snap judgments.

This is no snap judgment!

Sir, if you will let me explain

about the other day--

Go ahead.

Well...

I guess I was kind of obnoxious and--

Well, maybe we both made a mistake.

Yes, sir.

I mean, that is, uh--

I--I made the mistake.

You had a perfect right to throw me out.

I wish I knew what you two were talking about.

Just a little misunderstanding.

Come in, sit down. Make yourself at home.

Daddy?What?

I think that Eddie probably has other plans for tonight.

Oh?

Yes, sir. Dr. Packman is lecturing

at the Athaneum-- on the holy land.

Illustrated with magic lantern slides.

And I thought that Betsy would like to go.

Well, that sounds all right.

Oh, thank you, Daddy.

Just, uh...

get her back at a reasonable hour.

Yes, sir.

Good night, Daddy.Good night.

What wasn't as bad as all that, was it?

Worse.

Fathers.[ laughs ]

Oh, wait! Wait up!

Mr. Jones, why don't you tell Duncan

how you discovered your gold mine?

Well, it's like I was tellin' Julia.

Everybody said there was no gold in that mine, but I just knew there was.

So I just kept workin', year in and year out, never lost faith.

I beg your pardon.

Julia, isn't that General Casswell over there?

It certainly is.

What's he doing in Chicago?

Something big, whatever it is. You can bet on that.

What is he, a big gun or something?

Haven't you heard of General Casswell?

What's he do?

General Pierpont J. Casswell is--

Well, he's the biggest manipulator on the market.

Why ain't he in jail?

[ laughs ]

Oh, Mr. Jones, you are refreshing.

[ laughs ]

General Casswell in jail! Ha ha!

Some people might agree with Mr. Jones.

The fact remains, he's made fortunes

for himself and his associates.

I tell you, it's worth a fortune to anyone

who can get on the inside track with the General.

You don't say?

It's worth a small fortune just to know from day to day

whether he is bull or bear.

You mean he changes back and forth?

One day a bull, the next a bear.

[ laughs ]

Mr. St. John,

I've known some mighty talented liars in my time.

I knew Samuel Clemens, and he was no slouch.

I shook the hand of Bill Nye,

and he was no slouch, either.

But when you tell me that a fella can change himself

from a bull to a bear from one day to the next,

I gotta take my hat off to him.

He is not only a talented liar,

but he is the most gifted liar

that ever gladdened the heart of any man.

Duncan, I don't think he understands.

Oh, I knew a Crow Injun

who said he could change himself into a white buffalo,

but even he allowed it'd take him a week to do it in.

It's, um--

It's a stock market term, Mr. Jones.

Bulls buy, bears sell.

Oh, well...

why didn't you tell me?

You like to have me fooled.

[ all laugh ]

Duncan, you know General Casswell, don't you?

Not closely. He was associated with my uncle once.

Made a fortune for the old boy.

He's coming this way.

Why don't you talk to him?

Oh, he wouldn't remember me.

It might do you some good.

You've got my terms, and that's my last word.

Bring in 10 million before the market opens tomorrow,

and I'll let your syndicate off the hook.

Not another word, sir.

My decision is final.

General Casswell.

Please, not now, young man.

I have nothing to say to the press.

Perhaps you don't remember me, sir. Duncan St. John.

Oh, Colonel St. John's nephew.

Yes, sir.

You must forgive me.

You were only a youngster the last time we met.

How is the dear old colonel?

Very well, sir. He mentions you frequently.

Yes, we trimmed a great many smart boys in our time.

He's a fine man.

Oh. May I present Miss Julia Montgomery?

How do you do? It's my pleasure.

And this is Mr. Jones. He's in mining.

How do you do, Mr. Jones?

How do you do, sir?

I must be off. Give my regards to your uncle.

I certainly will, sir.

Good-bye. It was nice to meet you.

Thank you.

He's a nice fella.

He can be, if he likes you.

If he doesn't, watch out.

What's that?

The General must've dropped it.

Better check to make sure it belongs to him.

Yes, it's his, all right.

Yeah.

Hey.

Good heavens. There must be...

$5,000 there.

Yeah. Well, you'd better take it and give it back to him.

No, sir. I wouldn't take the responsibility of carrying that around.

You found it.

Why don't you put it in the hotel safe,

and then, in the morning,

both of you can return it to his office.

That's a good idea.

To Mr. Jones.

Eddie, do you think it's all right for us to be here?

Betsy, this is a place of high moral entertainment.

It's patronized by some of the leaders

of arts and letters in Chicago.

See that fella there? That's Eugene Field.

The guy with him is James Whitcomb Riley.

"When the frost is on the pumpkin,

and the corn is in the shock"?

That's the one.

I guess if it's all right for them, it's all right for us.

You bet it is.

Thank you.

Oh, waiter?

How are you, Countess?

You know her?

A newspaper man knows everyone.

It's his business.

She's very pretty.

It's her stock and trade.

Forget it. There's our table. Come on.

What's that fella call you?

I don't know. Probably mistook me for someone else.

Well...

It must be fascinating

meeting all the famous people that you do.

You get used to it. There's just like anybody else to me.

[ sighs ] Well, it's late, but...

I sure had fun.

Oh, well, we'll have to do it again sometime.

Oh, I hope so.

Betsy?Yes, Eddie?

You know, sometimes a girl kisses a fella

when he brings her home from a date? She does?

Sure. All the time.

But not from the first date.

Good night, Eddie.

Hi.

It was a very interesting lecture.

If you don't mind, though,

I'm very tired.

Good night, Daddy.

Good night, Betsy.

What is it?

May I come in?

Yes.

Daddy?

I have to tell you--

Well, we didn't go to a lecture

on the holy land.

We went to a cafe called the Red Mill.

Who's idea was that?

Eddie's.

But it really wasn't a bad place. It was wonderful.

But I couldn't go to sleep without telling you.

I'm glad you did.

Good night, Daddy.

It's right busy, ain't it?

One of the best brokerage houses in town.

There isn't a man here that isn't worth

at least a million.

You don't say?

Oh, General? General Casswell?

Oh, please, not now, St. John. I'm very busy.

General, Mr. Jones found something that belongs to you.

What do you mean?

Wallet's got your name on it.

Bless my soul! It is!

Oh, thank goodness for this.

Did, uh... either of you gentleman

read this memo that was in my wallet?

What kind of a sheep-stealin' coyote do you think I am?

I apologize, sir.

It's just that if this had gotten into the wrong hands,

it could've cost me a fortune, a considerable fortune.

By George, Mr. Jones. I don't know how to reward you.

Shucks, General. It wasn't nothin'.

Perhaps you'd like to show him around the market, sir.

It's all very strange to Mr. Jones.

Excellent. I'll go you one better.

It's not much fun watching the race without having a bet down.

Mr. Jones, would you like to take a little flyer?

I guarantee you, you won't lose a cent,

and you might make some money.

Honest Injun?

Could I get in, General?

Of course. You have any pocket money?

$3,000, $4,000?

Pocket money?

Well, whatever you have.

Well...I've got a couple hundred--

Give it to me.Whoa.

I've got a couple hundred, General.

I'll call.

All right, gentlemen.

I'm going to put you on Consolidated.

Watch it on the tape.

I'll buy when it drops below three,

and sell when it reaches six.

Come along.

Hmm. What's that there machine for?

It lists the latest quotations on every stock.

I can't pronounce them words.

Those are abbreviations.

Oh. Here we are.

Consolidated. 2 1/2.

I just made a buy order of Consolidated in your names.

What happens now?

We wait until it reaches six.

How do you know it's going to six?

Heh. Well...

it's my business to know those things.

It's starting to move.

4 1/4. 5.

Say, that is a right clever machine, ain't it?

It hit six!

Cartwright!

Sell 200 Consolidated at the market.

There's no sense in having to wait for the paperwork.

We can take care of things right now.

If you'll just follow me.

There you are, gentlemen.

$480 profit apiece.

You always make money that easy?

Oh, a mere trifle, sir.

A favor for a friend.

Of course, if you want to make a big killing...

How much?

Oh, $100,000. $200,000.

But it would require a large investment.

Well, how much?

Shall we say $50,000?

You mean to say if I give you $50,000,

I get $250,000 back?

A conservative estimate, yes.

You'll probably make much more.

Well, General, I'd like to take a go at it.

But I just can't.

No, it's against my principles.

I couldn't take that kind of money

unless I did something to earn it.

It's been a pleasure knowing you, General.

A real pleasure.

You comin', St. John?

Uh, later.

All right, all right, shut it down!

We're all through, boys.

Sucker threw the hook. I'll pay you off later.

[ men groan ]

St. John...

where do you think you're going?

Cost me $1,000 just to open this store.

How am I gonna get it back from you?

In money... or in blood?

Money, Cass.

We'll get back every penny you invested

and a profit to boot.

I guarantee you.

Looks like this is your lucky night, Mr. Jones.

Yeah, looks like it, don't it?

How about raising the ante...

just to make the game more interesting?

Fine with me. You name it.

Whatever you gentlemen want, it's all right with me.

That's the spirit. The sky's the limit.

I'll open for 200.

MAN: I pass.

Well, just to keep the game honest, gentlemen...

I'll raise 500.

Well, I like to win just as much as the other fella,

but I couldn't do this to you.

It'd be like takin' candy from a baby.

Well, here you are.

Four aces.

Wouldn't be right takin' your money that way.

Well, gentlemen, I'll call it a night.

I enjoyed the game.

Good night.

Good night, Julia.

Good night.

A real 100% guaranteed- to-get-your-money-back pigeon.

That's what he said.

Excuse me, my dear.

We prime him, let him win,

we deal him a pat hand of four aces.

Does he go crazy with greed?

Does he bet like a wild man into my straight flush?

No, my friend. He lays down his hand

because he doesn't want to take our money!

You rope in any more suckers like that, I'll be broke!

How did I know he was gonna turn out

to be the only man in Chicago...

who doesn't care about money?

You didn't know because you haven't got any brains!

Come on, boys.

I want you to get it back.

I don't know how, but get it back!

Well...

I'm fresh out of ideas.

I thought I'd outgrown the badger game.

But I guess I...

really should give it one more try.

You know, he--

The old boy is rather smitten with me.

So, just give me five minutes with the old goat,

and break down the door.

Oh, Mr. Jones, I must talk to you.

Now? Right now?

It's terribly important. I really must.

I'm worried about Duncan.

He's gambling very heavily, and he's--

he's losing more than he can afford.

Tonight was an example.

Well, he's a grown man, ain't he?

Yes, but I-- You don't understand, Mr. Jones.

It's--Well, Duncan--

Duncan is very dear to me.

We're like brother and sister.

We even rode in the same baby carriage.

Yes. I know him.

I know him too well.

He's very sweet, but...

he's very weak.

He needs someone stronger, some older,

to advise him.

Mr. Jones, he speaks very highly of you.

He does?Yes.

I thought maybe you could appeal to him

as that older, stronger, wiser brother.

Sure, sure.

Ohh! I'm so glad.

Oh! Oh, Mr. Jones, how can I ever thank--

What's the matter?

Oh...I feel dizzy.

Is this room terribly warm?

No, it ain't warm in here.

I must loosen my stays.

Can't it wait?No, I'm going to faint.

[ sighs ]

[ groaning ]

I think she needs some smelling salts.

I'm all right.

Where is she?!

It's all right, Duncan. I'm just leaving.

You all right?

Yes, of course.

Oh, Mr. Jones, thank you.

You've been so kind to me. Thank you.

And thank you. You were a big help.

Anytime, miss.

I don't understand.

Well, now, don't you be too hard on her.

She done this for your own good.

Young man, someday you and I gotta have a long talk

about the evils of gambling.

Come along, Duncan.

One of the nicest young couples I ever knew.

Real friendly and obliging like.

Where'd you come from?

I've been lookin' over the hotel for vermin.

Good night, Mr. Jones.

Good night.

It was that stupid maid.

I just know she did it on purpose.

How can a man lick destiny?

I tell you, somebody up there

has his hand on Jones' shoulder.

The only trouble with him is he's honest.

The rat.

What are you gonna do about Casswell?

That isn't what's worrying me?

It's what Casswell's gonna do about me.

Well, there are a few other things to consider,

such as the hotel bill, your tailor--

I've got it!What?

We've tried everything with Jones.

Stocks, poker, a badger game.

There's only one thing left.

What's that?

You've got to marry him.

Me? Marry that--

Julia darling...

as Jones' wife, you can have all the things

that I can't provide for you--

all the luxuries that make life worthwhile.

Then, after he's gone,

we can get married.

What do you mean, after he's gone?

He's getting on in years.

He can't last forever.

And, with a little bit of help from you, he--

Perhaps.Mm-hmm.

Julia.

This is our big chance.

We may never get another one.

And you also figure, as Mrs. Jones,

I might be able to get my hands on enough money

to help you settle up with Casswell.

The thought crossed my mind.

If you love me, Julia, as I love you...

marry Jones.

I'm sorry, Betsy, but Mr. Tighe isn't the kind of man

I'd like for you to associate with.

It wasn't all his fault.

I was just as much to blame as he was.

In the first place, you were not just as much to blame.

In the second place, you had the character to admit what you'd done.

I'm sorry. I don't want you to see him again, and that's final.

All right. I'll be back in about an hour or so.

I've got to talk to you, sir.

I've got to tell you the truth about the other night.

Come in.

We didn't go to the lecture the other night.

Oh, you didn't?

Sit down.

What's more, I never intended

to take Betsy to the lecture.

I knew that it was called off.

Where did you intend to take her?

To the Red Mill. It's a cafe.

Why are you telling me this?

On account of Betsy, sir. She's a nice girl.

And she'd worry about deceiving you.

It wasn't her fault. It was my fault right from the beginning.

And that's what I came to tell you.

I won't bother you any longer.

Eddie.

Betsy's out shopping.

She ought to be back soon,

and I'm sure she'd want to see you,

if you'd care to wait.

Yes, sir. I'd like that.

[ lock clattering ]

What's that?

Sounds like somebody trying to get in.

Well...

thank you.

What can I do for you?

You might tell me what you're doing with your key in my door.

Your door?

Well, what do you know?

Well, I guess that's what being engaged does to you.

What did you say?

What do you know?

The other part-- about being engaged.

Well, it just happened.

I don't know how it happened, but it just did.

Heh. And who's the fortunate woman?

Julia Montgomery.

The most beautiful woman in the world.

When did this happen?

Oh, just a few minutes ago.

We was talkin' about how lonely it was

for an old bachelor like me.

All of a sudden, she threw her arms around me,

let a whoop out of her, and said how I made her

the happiest woman in the world.

Everyone started congratulating me.

Manager brought some champagne.

And that's how it was.

I just can't believe it.

Well, congratulations.

I wish you every happiness.

Thank you, Judge. Thank you.

You're invited to the wedding. Thank you.

Well, I'll go back to my own room now.

Say, when is it to be?

Well, pretty soon, I guess.

You see, Julia-- she ain't favorin' long engagements.

I noticed your reaction

when Mr. Jones mentioned his fiancee's name.

Do you know Miss Montgomery? Yes, sir.

I take it you don't approve of her?

Tell me, is Mr. Jones a very good friend of yours?

Well, I'd hate to see him marry the wrong woman.

Is he rich?Oh, very.

Well, it figures.

Although I've never known her to go this far before.

I see.

Sir, may I suggest that you tell your friend

to either get out of town quick,

or put his money where she can't get a hold of it.

Well, I--

I don't believe Mr. Jones is in a frame of mind

to listen to such suggestions.

Excuse me a minute.

I beg your pardon. Do you happen to know the number

of Miss Julia Montgomery's room?

Yes, but she ain't in.

She just went down in the elevator.

Thank you.

Come in!

Harry at the elevator asked me to give you this.

Thank you.

Maggie, you're a fine woman.

You been into the cream or something?

What would you say if I told you I was about to be hitched?

I'd say I pity the poor female that got herself

that got hooked up with the likes of you.

You mean, you're gettin' married?

That's what I said.

Oh.

Well, congratulations...

I guess.

Who is she?

Miss Julia Montgomery.Oh, no!

What do you mean, oh, no?

Just surprised, that's all.

She's kind of young, isn't she?

Well, I ain't so old.

Maggie...Yes?

I was kind of hoping you'd come to the wedding.

Well, thank you very much, I'm sure.

What's the matter with you now?

Not a thing. What makes you think

I'd want to come to your old wedding?

Well, you've always been awful kind to me.

And I sort of considering you my friend.

Well, I ain't.

I just felt sorry for you 'cause you were an old fool

that didn't know any better.

[ crying ] And I wouldn't come to your wedding

if I was the poor, unfortunate bride myself!

Hmm.

Well, I'll be darned.

We're both worldly people, Miss Montgomery.

We can both understand how Mr. Jones

could be carried away by impulse.

How you might misunderstand his intentions.

Oh, well, I'm certain there was no misunderstanding.

No, no, no, no.

Half the hotel staff were present when he proposed to me.

But surely a woman as beautiful as you can find--

Well, I mean, Mr. Jones is much older than you--

But I find him utterly fascinating.

You see, there's a--

there's a crude vigor,

a masculine appeal, that stirs me.

No, I'm--

I'm very much in love with him.

And, of course, he's rich.

Oh, yes. Oh, yes, of course, yes.

He's rich.

Let us suppose, just for the moment,

that Mr. Jones declined to go through

with this proposed marriage.

I'd be terribly heartbroken.Oh.

But, of course, a helpless woman

does have recourse in the courts, Mr. Garth.

You've heard of breach of promise, yes?

Oh, yes, I've heard of it.

I see.

And how much balm

would you think it would take

to ease your aching heart?

Well, I would be...

terribly heartbroken.

Then we can assume it would take...

considerable balm.

A tremendous amount, Mr. Garth.

Simply tremendous.

Well, I do have to run.

But thank you so much for giving me your time. Bye-bye.

"Dear Mr. Jones.

"Your gold mine has run out of gold.

Therefore, we respectfully regret to--"

Inform.

"...inform you you are broke."

What name shall I put on this harbinger of disaster?

You just said the right one.

Put down "Harbinger".

I'd like to send a telegram.

Yes, sir.

Copy.

This is the financial lead story.

Tell the composing room it's a must for page one.

Hop it.

Won't you get into trouble? Over what?

The story-- when people read it.

Betsy, I should've told you a long time ago--

nobody ever reads the Chicago InterOcean.

Unless it's shoved right into their nose.

Will there be anything else, sir?

That'll be fine, thank you.

Why, you seem so unhappy.

Julia, I want to talk to you.

Of course.

What would you say if you found out I wasn't rich?

Darling, is this some sort of test?

No, I mean, supposing my gold mine petered out

and I just wasn't rich.

Would you still want to marry me?

When that minister says, "for richer or for poorer",

I'm going to be the happiest girl in this world.

Julia, you got a heart of pure gold.

Of course. And you're rich, aren't you?

BELLHOP: Telegram, Mr. Jones.

Thank you.

Excuse me, Julia.Of course.

Oh, I already heard this bad news.

Hmm?

[ Julia reading ]

Well, of all the mis--

Would you--uh--

Telegram, Mr. Jones.

Oh, again?

Well, ain't it shameful the way people like to give you bad news?

[ reading ]

Oh, darling, how terrible for you.

But we'll weather this misfortune together.

You mean you don't care if I'm busted?

Of course not, darling.

And under the circumstances,

I think we should be married right away.

That way, I can be sort of a consolation to you

in this, your hour of trouble.

You mean, right away?

Well, this afternoon.

Well, maybe we ought to sleep on it a day or two.

I don't want you to get into something you're gonna regret.

Darling, we're going to be married this... afternoon.

Now, would you please drink your coffee and let's get on with it?

I don't want no more coffee.

Couldn't we sort of wait till tomorrow?

Mr. Jones, aren't you going to keep your promise?

Yeah, sure, but--

If you have any idea of giving it up,

I just wouldn't do that,

because, you see, I have very good lawyers

who'd be willing to sue you for every--

every penny you have.

You don't really believe I'm busted?

Uh-uh.

Well, Mr. Jones. What's it going to be?

A trip to the minister or a trip to the court?

And believe me, the juries are very generous to women.

Especially... beautiful women.

Julia, you are a beautiful woman,

and I'd be right proud to show you off as my wife.

But, well, I wouldn't want to have you let in

for a powerful disappointment.

Let's go see that minister.

Now?Right now!

Well, um, Mr. Jones...

don't you think it'd be a good idea--

I'm glad I got here in time.

Just take a look at that!

What are you talking about?

"Swindle Divulged in--"

That lousy faker! He was conning us all that time!

Ow!

[ silverware clatters ]

Oh, Duncan.

Ohh!

Hey!

Hmm.

[ knock on door ]Come in.

You wanted to see me?

Yeah, I want to see you. About?

I want to know who that Harbinger fella was

that signed that telegram.

Why ask me?I'll tell you why.

I went to see the telegraph. He told me he remembered the woman who sent it.

She wore a hotel uniform under a shawl.

I don't know any other woman

who'd be busybody enough to do a thing like that.

You come a long, bustin' up my wedding?

What right you got to do a thing like that?

I did it for your own good.

She just wasn't right for you.

Who are you to be the judge of what's right or wrong for me?!

Come along, interfering, bustin' up my marriage,

spoiling my future for me.

Now I ain't got no wife at all.

She just wasn't right for you!

All she wanted was your money.

She'd have just made you miserable.

You would've been the most miserable, unhappy gentleman

who ever drew a breath.

And--

Why, Maggie Hyeth.

You get away from me.

No, ma'am. You done me out of one wife.

You're gonna make good for it.

J. Jimerson Jones, you just get away from me.

Maggie, I'm asking you to marry me.

Well, I aint' goin' to!

Don't you care for me just a little?

Of course I do, you old fool.

They why don't you want to marry me?

'Cause I ain't gonna marry a rich man.

It's against my principles.

Drinkin' champagne out of women's shoes.

Maggie, I ain't rich.

Look. This one's true.

This letter you brought me this morning.

It says my gold vein run into a bad lead,

and someone else relocated her.

That's a polite way of sayin' I've been...

claim-jumped.

No, Maggie...

I ain't rich no more.

Oh, I got a little money.

Maybe enough to start a grocery store or something,

but that's all.

Oh, J. Jimerson, Jones...

I guess that's just about as rich as a woman could want.

I think I could get used to being that kind of rich.

Oh, it's you.

Wait! Here! Take this!

Come on, take Maggie's, too.

Here you are, son.

Thank you, sir.

You still acting like a millionaire?

Sure, may as well live it up on my wedding day!

Shh! You want everybody in the hotel to hear you?

Well, maybe he was delayed...

having to explain to the city editor

about that preposterous story he wrote.

It did the trick, didn't it? Ha!

Hi. When you get the money for me,

take out what I owe you.

I'll get it from the safe.

Better get another chambermaid.

She's goin' with me.

What will that man think?

What else could I say?Shh!

You didn't want me to tell anybody we was just married.

I got held up.

City editor was kind of upset about that story.

He didn't fire you, did he?

No, sir. My father owns the paper.

Oh.

Well...I guess I'd better say good-bye now.

Well, it doesn't take three of us to pay the bill.

Why don't you--Thanks, Daddy.

I sure hate to see you leave.

If you're ever in Wyoming,

please stop in at Shiloh.

Maybe I can work that out someday.

Well...

Betsy...

you remember what you said about...

not kissing a fella good night on the first date?

Well, how do you feel about it

when you're saying good-bye?

Well, I--

I think that's different.

So do I.

There you are, sir. And here's your bill.

Thank you, thank you.

You know, Mr. Palmer--

he runs a mighty fine hotel.

What's goin' on up there?

Oh, they tried to sneak out the back way

without paying.

We've sent for the police.

Oh.

Well, whatever they owe you,

take it out of here, let 'em go.

Jimerson! I feel I owe 'em something.

If it hadn't been for them,

you and I might not get together.

I think I am gonna like you.

I'm checking out.Yes, sir.

I hope everything was satisfactory.

It was, indeed.

Here you are, Judge.

There you are, son!

Thank you. This way, please.

Thank you, hurry back.

Good-bye, Eddie.

Bye, sir.