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Put that light down.

Sorry, ma.

Taxi.

Taxi, Albert Square.

- This is my cab. - Give us a chance, lady.

- We are late for a New Year party. - Sorry. I am late too.

I got this cab first and I happen to be fire-watching.

Be your age. A tin hat doesn't make you everybody.

- They aren't coming over tonight. - You think not?

Just because it's a holiday? Be your age. I don't want fire watch any more than you.

I promised someone I'd take their place and I will.

- Now, get out of my cab. - Okay, you win.

St Andrews Church, Harcourt Square.

- Good evening. - Evening.

Didn't expect you tonight, sir.

- I'm substituting for Mr Allenby. - You don't mind if I go first, do you?

Oh no. Good luck, ducky.

- Happy New Year. - Happy New Year.

Happy New Year.

Mr Graves should be fire-watching with you tonight, sir.

I've got a date.

You don't know if he's coming or where he is?

No idea.

That's a bit thick, you know.

Do you always wear a hat in church?

- Sorry if I'm late. - It's the American lady.

- I thought it was Mr Graves' night. - I'm taking over for him.

- You two people know each other? - We have fire-watched together once.

Possibly.

Well, I'll be popping along. Happy New Year.

Happy New Year.

And a Happy New Year to you too, sir.

- Now I remember when we stood watch before. - Oh yes?

Exactly a year ago tonight.

- At twelve, I said "Happy New Year." - And you said "Uh."

- Better begin with the roof. - Begin what?

The inspection of our post.

Nonsensical red tape. I know this post.

Any volunteer on reporting is required to make a complete tour of inspection.

Checking all equipment.

Stirrup pumps, sand.

Do you expect me to walk around a roof I know as well as the inside of my pocket?

I expect you to do the job you have undertaken.

Come along.

It's one thing to do your duty and another thing to be rude about it.

I consider the correct way to walk around this roof

is to keep one hand on the rope all the time.

Half a minute.

- I go this way, you go that. - Last year you dropped your torch.

- I never drop my torch. - If you must wear it on your belt,

kindly see you have it fastened properly.

I do not relish being treated as incompetent.

I happen to run a munitions factory with fifteen hundred employees.

- What you, an American? - Certainly, why not?

At a cosmetics factory which the government converted.

You still can't fasten a torch. Yeah, that will hold.

Unspeakable boar!

If it did fall out,

if it fell over the side of the church,

it's my business.

He has got it so I can't get the idiotic thing out.

Who are you talking to?

To myself.

I suppose you never do.

Not when I am on duty.

And I'm standing three feet away from a rope I was ordered to hold on to.

By what authority do you order me?

No women ought to be allowed on posts like this.

There's only one risky spot and when I cross it I hold on to the rail.

I'm not taking any chances. Now walk forward slowly following me.

This is outrageous.

I don't intend to have to report an accident,

owing to the fact that some woman through her own inexcusable...

Look out!

Can you hold on?

Get away from there!

- Get some help. - No time to.

You couldn't hold on that long.

- Honestly, I think you should telephone. - Don't talk.

Try not to breathe if you can help it.

- Are you alright.? - Slipping a bit thanks.

- Keep away from there. - Shut up.

Put your foot in that.

Got it.

- Will that balustrade hold? - It has got to.

Happy New Year.

You have lost your torch.

Go on. Drink it quickly.

I'm alright.

It's just that...

Do you know that legend about drowning men?

When their whole life flashes before them.

Well, it's true, you know.

I found it out tonight.

You saw your past?

A sorry sight it was too.

Empty.

I had a feeling I've betrayed it.

Are you very proud of your life?

Mine? What has mine to do with it?

We're cut from the same strip of cloth you know, you and I.

The sort of forlorn people who do extra duty on holidays.

So someone else can celebrate.

Maybe you are forlorn.

Where did you spend Christmas?

On another roof.

In case of accident or death notify whom?

My lawyer.

Same here.

Freaks, that's what we are. A pair of freaks.

Nonsense.

Half way through life and the warmest high we can produce

is a paid fellow that does our business for us.

Would you mind taking that thing off your head?

Yes. I thought so.

You're a handsome woman.

I used to be pretty.

You still are.

A fine strong line to that jaw.

Handsome.

I suppose you never cared a hang for anyone in your life.

Do you indeed?

Got you that time.

You see, we forlorn middle-aged people come in two varieties.

The ones who never cared...

and the ones who cared much too much.

And the others, the wise ones, who know how to compromise.

They're very happy with their second wife or third husband or...

someone.

And we are alone.

One doesn't make a choice of course.

One slams a door in one's mind. At least I did.

Slammed it and shot all the bolts.

And afterwards, I had a job, thank heaven.

I don't see how anyone gets through who hasn't.

I wouldn't see people, couldn't talk about it.

You can't.

You are talking now.

I wonder why.

Please go on.

Are you sure you don't mind?

When I was in the last war I was in France.

I had a wife and son.

When I came back they had gone.

The flu epidemic.

As simple as that.

I'm glad you told me.

Thank you.

How about you?

Nothing.

Try.

Go on.

It's of no possible interest.

I must be getting along.

Miss Norris, I hope you didn't think I was trying to pry into your affairs.

Of course not.

Forget it.

Yes, let's do that.

Let's start afresh here and now.

Start what?

The New Year. Properly.

Let's go out to supper together.

You're insane.

Do you think you ought to consider it?

You think you'd get a table on New Year's Eve?

I will get a table alright. Will you come?

I never go anyplace.

Neither do I. The idea of going into a crowded restaurant

makes cold sweat come to my brow. But if you will come with me...

Alright.

But I assure you, my dear mister...

- Do you realize I don't know your name? - Desham.

Desham.

- Desham of the Housing Plan? - Yes.

I see. No wonder you think you can get a table, Lord Desham.

I will go and telephone.

- Where's the phone? - Through the lobby and turn left.

Pardon me, Miss Norris, a gentleman is asking for you.

- For me? - Major, here she is, sir.

Do you donate the Piersen Falls Journal to the reading room?

- Yes, I bring it in when I've finished it. - Why, you're Jody Norris, aren't you?

And you're...

Bill McNab. Sit down.

Wrong, Bill McNair.

You used to live next to the Piersens on Circular Street.

Wrong. Still live there. Was back three weeks ago.

You saw the Piersens.

Wrong. Saw Corinne Piersen. Alec is in Washington.

And Gregory?

- Still flying in the Pacific? - Wrong.

New orders. He's stationed at Huddersfield where I am.

He's due at Euston Station on the 2 o'clock train.

Gregory is going to be in London? Tonight?

Right.

This is Lord Desham.

I want to speak to Marcel.

What Marcel do you think I want? The head waiter, of course.

So sorry, sir, Marcel hasn't been with us for seventeen years.

I haven't dropped in lately.

Look here, I want a table for two.

And you might put me some 1928 Cordon...

Well, the '36 will do.

And can you roast us a nice pheasant?

- Lord Desham. - They can do a powdered-egg omelette.

- I can't go. Thanks the same. - Tomorrow night?

Nor tomorrow night. Something came up. I can't make plans.

- You're being flighty and capricious. - I've no time to quarrel. Sorry.

Miss Norris... The devil with it.

- When is the Huddersfield train coming in? - 2:12. But not tonight.

The Huddersfield train? Blast. What is it now?

Fog on the line.

How long will it be? I expected him this morning.

- It's always waiting! - It will be here when it comes.

Platform 3. Indefinite delay.

Come along.

Well, I guess we've had it.

- Are you going to wait? - Yes.

It may take all night. It gets awfully cold out here.

I'm going to wait.

I think I will go inside.

Sorry if I seemed rude back there.

You were rude. We're all rude nowadays.

- It doesn't matter. - You see, my young man is a flyer.

You can't imagine what it's like to be in love with a flyer.

I can't imagine what it's like to be in love with a flyer...

Can't I?

Jody, could you quit that inventory long enough to...

Jody.

Yes, Papa?

- What are you listening to? - That funny drumming sound.

- Do you suppose it's an aeroplane? - An aeroplane? Around Piersen Falls?

Hardly.

I don't hear a thing.

A minute ago it sounded so plain.

It wouldn't interrupt you to one of your beaus,

but there is now two of them at the soda fountain.

Could you come before it gets really congested?

Oh, Papa.

My "beaus".

You think everybody is a beau.

They've already had a couple of ice-cream sodas each.

Don't let them wait too long.

What started out as love might wind up as diabetes.

- Jody! - Hello Alec, Mac.

- When did you get in town? - This morning.

- You go ahead. - You go first.

- What I say to Jody will take a while. - No, go right on. I'm in no hurry.

Neither am I.

Don't pull so. And let go. Boys, stop that. Stop it.

While you two are settling this...

Hello Miss Jody. The kids want a penny's worth of candy.

I feel just awful that I can't help you and the other ladies roll bandages.

With the baby so little and my condition...

You're doing enough for the country one way and another.

Kids, don't cross the street without me. Virgie, wait. Virgie.

Virgie, come here.

Where's Mac?

That drummer went with your father. Who is he anyway?

He traffics in wines, spirits and gents toiletries.

Jody, I have got to tell you something that my kind-of upset you.

Yes.

I've applied for a transfer to the Air Service.

Yes, Alec.

- Is that all you have got to say? - It'll be more fun the Quartermaster Corps.

It's not a question of fun, Jody.

As the last Piersen in Piersen Falls, it's up to me to set an example.

Yes, Alec.

I guess you don't know the funny feeling you get when you sign that application.

It hits you that...

maybe there won't ever be another Piersen in Piersen Falls.

- No kid of mine to grow up in the old... - Stop trying to make me cry.

Corinne Sturgis cried. We got really talking about things.

What would you say if I told you I was going to marry Corinne?

Alec, that would be ideal.

And from what I hear,

Corinne's father could use some new ideas in his pianola factory.

Well, in that case I might...

Jody, let's quit this nonsense. Let's put our cards on the table.

Won't you marry me?

Won't you? Please.

I've said no, Alec.

How do you know you're not in love with me?

Because I wish I were. I've tried to be.

- But I just can't. - That's a nice thing to say.

- That's nice to remember when I... - Next.

Now, Mac.

The cut of that coat.

That's our country's uniform and it looks fine.

- What have you got to sell today, Mac? - A mighty good product.

- What is it? - Myself.

Dinner at The Lake House.

With a bond rally and dance afterwards. If we feel like it.

Sorry, Mac. We're taking inventory tonight.

- Why this black spot on my record? - You're too good a salesman for me.

I don't have to push this product. It sells itself.

As fiery as straight brandy. Smooth as an old port. Discreet as a fine sherry.

And modest as a dewdrop.

You can't be modest when all the girls look at you and say: "Hey knockout."

What's the matter with you, Jody?

- I don't know. - You're not in love with that kid are you?

No.

Who are you in love with?

Nobody.

That's what scares me, Mac.

For lots of people, it doesn't happen to. Only you don't think you'll be one of them.

You got some kid's idea of what being in love feels like.

You expect too much.

You think suddenly everything will be upside down

and sky-blue pink and different.

Well...

If it's not like that,

then I don't want it.

- What under the canopy? - It is a plane!

What do you suppose it is?

It sounds like is right over the building here.

There it is!

I see it!

Isn't it beautiful?

People really flying.

Just to think of it gives you a wonderful feeling.

Watch that thing climb. It's one of the new Liberty planes.

Wrong, It's a DH.

He must be going at least eighty miles an hour.

Wong. Nearer a hundred.

- Looks like he's in trouble. - I'll say.

That's what is happening in the skies all over France, ladies and gentlemen.

The flier of that plane will speak tonight.

And he will sell bonds. And when he asks you how many you want,

remember he has been flying in France,

facing death!

Be careful of your throat, Bernadotte.

Well, when it's a question of my health or my country...

Bond rally tonight at 8:30. G.A.R. Hall. Don't forget.

Where will it land, Mr Clinton?

It's going to land at the golf course, ladies and gentlemen.

Hop aboard, Alec! Jody, come on!

Let's get going, Cora!

Put out your collar, Bernadotte!

And that's another day tucked away.

Yeah. As far as you're concerned.

- Now, it starts. - What you complaining about?

You had an hour's sleep last night and nearly two and a half the night before.

You want a little snort before they start tearing you to pieces?

And have all the old women sniff me and pray over me?

It's the cat's, not being a hero.

Captain Cosgrove, I am Bernadotte Clinton.

That was a magnificent show you gave us.

This town is going to honour you properly or bust in the effort.

The reception is ready right now.

Then we have to stop at the Women's Club on the way though.

The ladies passed resolutions they wish to read to you on handling the Kaiser.

Then the Municipal Bank where we'd like you to speak afterwards.

But of course, maybe you want to...

Boys, move your bicycles please.

Maybe you want to save your voice for the bond rally?

We have six really good speakers lined up anyway.

- Cora, this is Captain Cosgrove. - Delighted.

Captain, you sit up here on the back of the seat.

Attaboy.

- No, no, no. Up on the back of the seat. - This is fine.

But the people want to see you. Come on, up on the back of the seat.

That's it. Thank you.

Alright, Cora.

Imagine Cosgrove, what a thrill for poor little me

driving a man who has been through battle and danger and...

I'm alright.

- Who is there? - I am.

- Quick, lock the door. - What's the matter?

- If they know he's here they'll mob us. - Who?

- That flier, Captain Cosgrove. - He's here?

There was an accident. It's taken the starch out of me.

- What happened? - A twig cut his eye.

Is he badly hurt?

Just a little scratch. Fix a cold compress will you, Jody.

I haven't seen Mrs Clinton this shaken since she broke my leg.

This may sting a little.

I guess that warning sounds foolish after all you've been through in France.

Compress, Jody.

Just hold that over your eye.

Capitan Cosgrove.

He has fainted. Internal injuries!

Captain Cosgrove?

Feeling badly?

I was sound asleep.

Hold this over your eye.

- Where can I find a bed? - A bed?

- We're due at the mayor's reception... - No to the mayor's reception.

- Why, you can't... - Where's the nearest bed?

You come and lay down on my couch.

It's past closing time.

- You will be perfectly quiet. - You can't do this to me.

First, it's the Mayor's reception, then the Woman's Cub and then...

Listen, in the last 3 days I've had about 4 hours sleep.

I've done this stunt in eight towns.

Figure that out in handshakes, chicken salad and fat females firing foolish questions.

I'll be at your bond rally.

- Until then, I sleep. - But what are people going to say?

Sir, I regard this as desertion of a fellow soldier under fire.

Alright, shoot me.

- You get on home and start supper, Jody. - Yes, Papa.

I can't let him just lie there. I have to go to Mrs Clinton.

Let him sleep, he is tired.

- You're absolutely sure about that? - What?

- That you won't marry me. - Absolutely.

I must say I was asked to the house of a certain party for dinner.

I can't wait forever, I've only eight days of furlough left.

Beg your pardon.

Three important functions and I must explain that Captain Cosgrove is taking a nap.

He is?

Well, chin up. This is war, you know.

- I must talk to Captain Cosgrove. - You can't.

Do you see? He can help me with my transfer. He can fix it.

- Talk to him at the bond rally tonight. - There will be too many people.

- You seeing him again? - I don't know.

If you do, will you ask him about me? Will you please? You're sure?

Yes.

Sorry to have wakened you.

I wasn't asleep exactly.

Who are you?

I am Jody Norris. This is my father's drugstore. It's a quarter of eight.

The bond rally is at eight-thirty.

You've missed your dinner so I brought you a sandwich and some coffee.

Thanks.

- What's the name of this town? - Piersen Falls.

Any chance I could shave?

My father's razor is here.

I will heat you some water.

- This is good. - I'm glad.

Captain Cosgrove,

I know you're tired of people asking you things but...

It's crowds I'm tired of.

- Have you been flying long? - Two years.

Three almost.

- It's the best branch of the army? - Nothing can touch it.

Is it hard to learn?

My bunch picked it up by ourselves more or less.

Six hours in the air and we are on our own.

- But there are schools now, aren't there? - Yeah.

I was an instructor in one for a while. At Clermont-Ferrand.

Well, I'm asking for a friend of mine who's in the service.

- A nice steady fellow? - Yes.

- Known him long? - All my life.

- Fond of him? - Very. If there's anything you can do...

- Sure I could. No trouble at all. - That's wonderful.

- He was in Company L and he's stationed... - Don't bother.

I'm not going to.

Somebody else can you get your boyfriend into this filthy mess. Not me.

Don't you like flying?

Sure I do.

The way a drunk likes liquor.

But...

I get sober once in a while.

I get moments when I know there's something else.

A girl comes into a quiet room and...

lights a lamp.

Just for a second, things go clear.

Plenty of jobs he can do on the ground. Dangerous enough. Let him stay there.

But he wants it so much.

Listen.

Teaching people to fly? That's a joke.

It's instinct.

It's luck.

That school...

That crazy school.

Sit down to lunch with 6 student pilots and you'll laugh louder than ever.

Only two of them are alive to eat dinner. Not lost in battle. Not shot down.

Just a cross-current they didn't know about.

The stick they joggled wrong.

Misjudgement of distance...

Believe me, it's not for your boyfriend.

It's for the wild ones.

The ones with nothing to come back to.

- And you fly. - Yeah. And look at me now!

Temper shot to pieces.

Nerves twitching for that next nip of excitement.

How do you think most of spend our time between flights?

With a bottle of Cognac and any girl we can grab.

Getting into messes that you couldn't even imagine.

Listen.

Put your arms around your boyfriend and make him forget he ever saw a plane.

End of the recruiting speech.

Thank you.

Very much.

Now then, ladies and gentlemen, it's your chance to be good soldiers.

Just come right up and buy, buy, buy. The line forms over here.

Buy all that you can afford and then beat down and by another.

Will some of the boys help clear the chairs here

so folks can dance, please.

- Jody, did You see him? - Isn't he wonderful?

- Did you see him about me? - Yes.

- And? - He said no.

- You didn't ask the right way. - You mustn't bother him.

- I'll wait until he's through. - He explained why exactly.

Please, we're trying to transact business.

- Do you mind? - Sorry.

Did you say how well I drive an automobile?

- You're not the sort of person they want. - What's wrong with me?

Nothing. You're nice a boy, but you're a boy. They're men.

They weren't taught to fly. They just groped their way into it.

That's foolish.

Maybe it's foolish living on your tattered nerves from day to day.

Six of you at lunch and only two of you left at dinnertime.

And all of it focusing on you,

feeling there's nothing left for you, no future, nobody to care.

You make me sick. What has this got to do with me and my transfer?

Have you forgotten? From now on you're not meant to quarrel with anyone but me.

- Hello, Corinne. - Hello, Jody.

I suppose Alec has been telling you about us.

- No. - We are getting married.

- The day after tomorrow. - That's just wonderful, Corinne.

I'm so glad for you both.

Are you?

Let's dance. Corinne?

- That was the boy? - Yes.

- But he's dancing with somebody else. - Yes, they're engaged.

Why didn't you tell me he wasn't your particular boy?

It would have sounded so silly.

Would it?

- It's new, isn't it? - Over here maybe.

I heard it in Paris.

The English words are terrible.

If you would care for me

As I could care for you

What a place this world would be

A paradise for two

See what I mean?

No, please go on.

Shut up, you beautiful thing, we're dancing.

Captain Cosgrove.

Captain Cosgrove!

Don't look. I don't hear him.

Captain Cosgrove.

As I waited to do my speech they put me on a flat tin roof near the back window.

Captain Cosgrove!

Well, maybe not so flat.

It's fine for the legs though. It stretches one, shakes one.

- We are making holes, you know. - So the rain comes in.

So the snow comes in.

And some sun and some stars.

You should be very grateful to those people downstairs, don't you think?

What?

Was I saying something?

Here I come, fair warning.

Captain Cosgrove, much as I hate to interrupt you and Miss Norris,

this is a bond rally.

We promised everyone that you will autograph every receipt over a thousand.

Alright.

I have my fountain pen, if you step inside where it's light.

Wait here.

Right here.

I will send him back to you right away.

What's come over you anyway, Jody Norris?

What's the matter with you?

The biggest transaction they ever had in Piersen Falls.

I was just going to say goodnight.

- I have to go home. - You're joking.

No, really, it's very late for me.

Goodnight.

Way out there?

I loved the dance.

Did you?

- Please, don't come with me. - Of course I'm gonna...

Please.

Hey, Babe.

Plane's okay, nobody can touch it. I got the rotor in my pocket.

That's what I thought. Give it to me.

Young lady?

Do you think you will run out of gas maybe?

Babe, you cannot imagine how quick I get places when I run out of gas.

How lovely it is silent.

This is what I hoped flying would be like.

It's not so good.

Jody, I have done a fool thing.

I came away without checking the gas.

- We're out of gas? - Yes.

But we are flying perfectly well.

We can glide for quite a while.

After that...

Give me your hand, Jody.

I'll do my best to get us out of this.

And you will, I know.

I've got to make a forced landing in the dark on strange territory.

I am not afraid.

Why don't you let yourself go and give me the devil?

After all, I got you into this.

It's my fault.

It's just as much my fault. I wanted to come.

Well...

At least there's one good thing about being in a spot like this.

It gives a guy the nerve to say things he'd never say to a girl he just met.

What things?

Why do you think I forgot to check that gas?

Because I was thinking of you.

Why do you think right now my heart is pounding so hard I can hardly stand it?

Because I'm looking at you.

There is some sort of crazy magic between you and me.

I knew it when we started to dance.

The minute I put my arms around you.

I knew it long before.

I think I knew it

when you sat there eating that sandwich with such a sleepy face.

Knew what?

That it had happened.

That I had found you.

That even if I never saw you again there was someone I'd love forever and ever.

Wait a minute, Jody. Cut it out.

Don't.

But what happened? You had plenty of gas.

Sure I did.

I was just trying out a trick of the trade.

A what?

We use it when we want to grab a quick kiss. Come on.

- I'll get you home. - But I don't see...

Don't you realize I'll be gone from here in three hours?

I know you will.

Isn't it pretty clear then?

Love...

Love, the way you think about it,

it's a lifetime job.

And I haven't any lifetime.

Come along, will you.

- There is no moon down here. - It's past two o'clock.

- You're leaving at five? - Dawn is around then.

- Stop crying, will you. - I'm not crying.

Don't look at me, please.

Don't Jody, don't.

Will you please listen? Why do you think I'm acting like this?

Because I got a glimpse up there of what it can be like with you and me.

I know it as well as you do.

And the only way I can say it

is not to say anything but to take you home now and not even kiss you goodbye.

Because you'll only be here until dawn?

That's all the time you're sure of? How much time do you think I can be sure of?

I have only got until dawn too.

I make such nice medicine for everybody else.

Why do I have to take one that tastes so awful.

- Hello, Jody. - Hello, Corinne.

Hello, Mr Norris.

I have to pick up the ice-cream for the country club luncheon.

The freezer is out the back, Mrs Piersen. I will tell your driver.

- Any news from Alec? - Something too wonderful.

The Red Cross has ordered eight pianolas. That makes us a war industry.

Papa thinks he can borrow Alec back from the Army.

Lovely.

It's so hot I think I'd better have something to drink.

- Strawberry as usual? - No.

Have you any milk? Just plain cold milk.

Of course.

Mr Norris.

Mr Norris!

- Have you something for burns? - Anything serious?

The boys thought up a new game. Throwing firecrackers at each other.

Lighted.

I'll get you some salve.

- Why didn't you bring them in? - They won't quit.

- Hello, Belle. - Hello, Miss Jody.

Phew! This weather...

Would you like something cool to drink? A cherry phosphate maybe?

- Could I have some of that milk? - Of course.

- What's this sudden craze for milk? - Don't you like it?

Not a bit.

You need a lot of it in my condition. It builds bone or something.

That's right.

Corinne...

I'm so glad.

Mrs Piersen, let me tell you this.

Having children around is the sweetest thing in the world.

The very sweetest.

Mama! Mummy! You got to come home right this minute and spank baby.

- He has been bad. - Now, Virgie.

He has been bad. He swallowed my firecracker.

Oh, my lamb, what will it be next? Was it lighted?

Mrs Ingham!

Mrs Ingham.

Me. Five years from now. So long, Jody.

Goodbye, Corinne.

- I'll say goodbye now, Mrs Norris. - Goodbye, Dr Potter.

Thanks, Mike, for giving your advice.

Goodbye.

- Is there some doubt, Dr Hunt? - About your condition? None whatever.

Then why was a consultation necessary?

You have been through a tiresome examination.

Come in tomorrow.

I hadn't expected to come back to New York for several months.

Not until it becomes apparent and I can't work any longer.

Come in tomorrow and bring your husband.

He is in France, Dr Hunt.

Well...

Then you'll have to take it without a shock absorber.

Dr Potter and I find a condition that calls for immediate surgery.

Surgery?

Either that or living in constant danger of peritonitis.

I warn you if that happens...

You think I will die?

Yes.

That's why Dr Potter and I think it should be done as soon as possible.

It's not a grave operation.

You will be out of the hospital in five days.

Of course there isn't any question.

There's one thing I must make clear. If we do this, you will lose your baby.

I see.

It's a hard thing to face with your husband away.

You don't have to be kind.

It is better anyway.

Well now, let's see.

When can I take you into a hospital?

I'll have to go home first to make arrangements to be away.

I haven't told my father about this.

I shan't now.

Who is this Mrs Cathcart you're going to visit in New York?

- You have never met her. - I never even heard you speak of her.

I met her at cousin Marge's last summer.

Then I ran into her the other day at Siegel & Coopers.

But to go and visit New York in the middle of summer?

The queerest thing I ever heard.

- You've gone New York nutty. - I'll only be gone a week.

- Spirits of Ammonia, quick! - I'm not going to faint.

- I just got a little dizzy. - You were so emotional, Bernadotte.

The Piersen Falls Journal ought not to post such news on their bulletin board.

- But it's wartime, Bernadotte. - I spent almost a half-day with that boy.

I can see him now.

Riddled with bullets. Gone down in flames.

Who?

That young flier who was here with the bond rally.

Put your head between your knees, that's what they say at the Red Cross.

Drink this.

That's better.

- Do you want to lie down? - I think I will go home, Cora.

Thank you very much, Jody.

Anything wrong with him?

Father.

Why so formal? You haven't called me that for years.

You may as well hear this now. I'm going to have a baby.

It's Bart Cosgrove's baby.

He has been shot down in France.

They talk about him as if he is dead.

Just dead.

But he's not dead.

Not while his baby is alive. And it's going to be.

I don't care what the doctor said, I don't care if I do die.

That baby will have its chance for life.

Somebody is coming.

Then you drop them in deep fat and fry them until they're golden brown.

- Good afternoon, Daniel. - Afternoon.

As usual, I need some more bicarbonate of soda.

One bicarb. Anything else?

No, that's all.

Why so glum?

Sorry.

Well...

- Jody... - There's no need to say it.

I know how you feel.

You have always been proud of me and trusted me.

And I have betrayed everything you stand for.

Turn around, Jody.

We don't judge each other. Not you and me.

We love each other.

Papa...

Hello, young man.

He likes being with me very much. Can't you forget him for a little while?

Nope.

- Most babies are bald aren't they? - Yeah.

I wouldn't like one that was bald nearly as much.

Don't you think he has a brave little face?

It's good the war is over or he might wriggle out of this blanket and enlist.

- May I come in? - Sure, doctor.

- Got the room alone now? - Mrs Farone is in the delivery room.

You can hear her yelling all over the sixth floor.

- Hello. - Hello.

- I've just been looking at your X-Rays. - Well?

You're as right as rain and as sound as cricket.

- Which is pretty embarrassing to science. - Shall I apologise perhaps?

You certainly should.

I've got good news for you.

This is my last visit.

- You can leave here tomorrow. - Tomorrow?

Well...

- Aren't you pleased to take him home? - Of course.

Thank you for my baby, Dr Hunt.

I just hope he's half the man his mother is.

- Goodbye. - Goodbye.

The Farone kid has arrived. Outsized girl. Ten pounds.

- Miss Gingras... - Yep?

- The doctor says I can leave tomorrow. - Good.

Do you know of a place where I can board my baby for a few weeks?

I live up state and the weather there is awful so...

Who do you think you're fooling?

How did you know?

Listen, a girl like you comes into a hospital,

no visitors, no flowers, no letters coming in, no telegrams going out.

For an old-timer like me that adds up to just one thing.

Does everybody know?

Uhuh. And I'm not telling them.

You sinned, you'll pay for it all the rest of your life.

Me? I don't collect on those payments.

I'll take the baby over at my place.

Would you, Miss Gingras?

My name is Daisy.

Now that's settled, will you please relax?

It's not settled though. I have still got to smuggle him back into my life.

That's easy. You say he's a war orphan

and his mother who died was your best friend.

You've never lived in a small town.

If I went back with a new baby and a story like that...

Alright. Alright.

In a week or two on my day off, I'll take a trip and leave him on your doorstep.

On the doorstep of a girl who's been away? Not in Piersen Falls.

The more I hear of them cosy little towns the better I like the Bronx.

You know Daisy, I've been thinking about this for a long time.

- And I've worked out a plan. - Yeah?

I have to hear about that baby by accident.

Everybody in town must know it's just by accident.

How do we do that?

Well...

You do leave him on a doorstep.

Only it's somebody else's doorstep.

What's happened? Belle always comes to us. They should have found him by now.

Stop fretting, Jody. He's in a basket wrapped in a blanket, out in the sunshine.

- Somebody will open that door pretty soon. - But he might kick off the blanket.

Babies aren't made of glass. That baby of Mrs Piersen's...

- Corinne had her baby? - Ahead of schedule.

Caesarean. Weighed 4 pounds. But I bet he pulls through.

I tell you babies are tough.

If it weren't so windy...

- Glad to see you back, Jody. - Thanks, Miss Claflin.

Mr Norris,

I think I've taken a little bit of a chill.

It is so raw out. I wonder if you'd sell me a bottle of whiskey.

See, it is cold.

It isn't cold Jody and Miss Claflin hasn't a chill.

She wants some whiskey that I can't sell her on account of the prohibition law.

Mr Norris!

Miss Norris, we just found a new baby in our house.

- Good gracious. - A new baby?

This time the doctor didn't bring it in a black bag, it came in a basket.

- On the doorstep. - I found it.

- Mama said, can she borrow a quart of milk? - Of course.

A baby on Belle Ingham's doorstep?

Them that has, gets.

Do you think I should go and see if there's anything I can do?

- Why don't you? - Come on, boys.

- You ought to see Pa. - He's getting drunk.

He always does for babies.

I don't imagine that house smells very good.

Now, can I have a little drop of whiskey?

- Hello, Belle. - Did you ever hear the equal?

This time it ain't my fault I swear, and there is my alibi.

I found it first, didn't I mom.

There was a note. He's a war orphan, they can't afford to keep him.

They can't afford to keep him. They can't!

What can we do?

- Send him to the police station, is what. - Shut up, Clarence.

What can you do, Belle?

If it wasn't for the new baby I'd keep him. You know, I like babies.

Listen, Belle.

Why don't I take him over to my house?

But you're not fixed to take care of a baby, Miss Jody.

I've got lots of room and plenty of time.

- It would help us out, wouldn't it? - Now, it's too late, my girl.

- Can I have him? - You sure can.

- Of cours, Miss Jody. - Casey will help me with the other end.

Wait a minute., you must get a lot of things before you move that baby.

- A crib and bottles and... - And dollies and dollies and dollies.

Well, I will get them and be back in no time at all.

Billy, take your hat off in the house.

You've had enough.

Four dozen diapers.

And a dozen nightgowns.

Yes, and the eight little dresses.

Is that enough?

A prince couldn't ask for more.

And will take this.

A pinwheel for a brand-new baby? Now, Miss Norris.

He's got to have the best.

Miss Jody, I've been looking for you everywhere.

A most wonderful thing happened.

That's a terrible thing to say as it's just as sad as can be.

What?

You know Mr and Mrs Piersen? The baby that came too soon?

They lost the poor little thing. Mr Piersen heard a baby was left here...

- You let them take him? - It's a wonderful home. The best in town.

You let them take him?

Miss Jody!

Miss Jody!

- Mrs Piersen, please. - Mrs Pearson is very sick.

- Mr Pearson then. It's about the baby. - Come in please.

Just a moment, Miss.

Miss Norris is calling. You should have waited downstairs.

Come up, Jody, Dr McLaughlin and I are celebrating a miracle.

- Hello, Jody. - That baby was promised to me.

- Belle said you asked to take him. - She gave him to me.

It was arranged, I was buying things.

- Anything you can't return I'm glad to... - It's all arranged, it's my baby.

You don't know what we went through. I was away when it happened.

Jody.

Two hours ago I didn't know whether Corinne would die or lose her mind.

Now come with me, I want to show you something.

Don't speak, please.

Alec.

Yes, darling?

Come and look at him.

Belle Ingham was in, Jody.

I can imagine how you feel.

I can stand it, it's only for a little while.

A little while?

You don't think I'm going to leave him there, do you?

As soon as Corinne is better, I will...

talk things out with her.

- What are you going to tell Corinne? - I will tell her he is mine.

- I'll tell everybody he's mine. - No you won't.

- I know it's awful for you. - I'm not thinking of me.

In my state of health the scandal won't matter to me. Not for long.

- If you worry about me and my reputation... - You're grown up. I'm not thinking of you.

- I'm thinking of the baby. - He's mine.

I have a share in him.

He's my grandson and he's not going to suffer for your faults.

He is not going to be brought up a marked child.

If the people of this town suspect he's yours, his life won't be worth living.

- I can't give him up. - You've got to.

No!

Can't you hear them whispering? "See that little fellow in the sailor suit?

"He is the Norris girl's baby.

"He hasn't any father. He never had one."

Don't.

Jody, honey.

You haven't any choice and you know it. We tried to get away with something.

It didn't work.

Are you here, Jody?

- Who is it? - Alec.

Mr Norris, is...

Corinne sent me Jody when she heard how you felt about giving up that baby.

She asked me to tell you something.

We don't want to seem selfish about the kid. You are welcome any time.

That's very kind of Corinne.

Poor Corinne.

You don't know what it means to lose your first-born child.

I hope you never will.

They named him Gregory Sturgis Piersen after Corinne's father.

But I was the one who found the pet name we called him.

Griggsy.

Thursdays and every other Sunday.

Those were the days I lived for.

The nurse's day off.

- You know what this is? - Paderewski's minuet.

Practically the way Paderewski plays it.

We're going to get his endorsement that it's his favourite interpretation.

Printed on every roll.

It's Alec's idea.

If that doesn't start people buying pianolas again...

There's my boy.

He was laughing, he loved the music.

Of course he does.

Gregory has got fine taste.

He wouldn't laugh for a cheap squeaky old gramophone.

Roll him and roll him and roll him.

Stop flopping around, Griggsy Piersen.

Drying you off is like trying to dry a little trout.

- Really. - Did you put the baby on this bed?

- While I filled his bath. - He swallowed a safety-pin.

I folded this diaper with 3 pins beside it. Now, one is gone.

- Open or shut? - Open.

- We mustn't get panicky. - You have let that baby swallow a pin.

- I love him more than anything. - You don't love him any better than I do.

- You love him so much? - I'll never let you come near him again.

Never, never, never.

Stop crawling around that floor. We've got to get him to an X-Ray.

- What the deuce? - Jody let Griggsy swallow a safety-pin.

Is your car outside? We must get him to the hospital.

Now, look at this kid for a minute.

- He doesn't feel it yet. - You flatter the kid.

Even with practice I couldn't swallow a safety pin.

- But children do. - Stop talking. Come on.

If he has, there's no time for a doctor, I must extract it myself.

- You? - You girls have the nerve? Come closer.

One, two, three...

and success.

Griggsy Piersen.

I thought we had lost you.

Now break it up and let me have a glimpse of my son.

Come on, fellow. Goodness, they scared you to death, didn't they.

Want to see something he likes to do?

Come on, Griggsy.

Griggsy, darling.

Come on.

Come on, Griggsy. Come on. Come on.

May I, Corinne?

Of course.

This is the way the lady rides

And this is the way the gentleman rides

It's time he got dressed.

He hasn't finished his ride.

Let him practice, Corinne. He's nearly the size for a jockey.

This is the way the farmer rides

You two seem to know a great deal more about this child than I do.

He is going to be dressed and have his supper.

- What's the matter with Corinne? - I make too much of a fuss over the baby.

I know I do.

I will apologize.

Goodnight, Alec.

- Aren't you staying for supper? - I don't think so.

Not tonight.

Goodnight.

Hello, Jody Norris.

Why, Mac Tilton!

- What is it you work at so hard? - Nothing.

- Let's see. - You wouldn't be interested.

You're a big girl to keep a gush book.

I thought you gave up the road when prohibition came in.

- Sure I did. - What are you doing here?

I've been on a trip to Canada. I saw a sign "Piersen Falls 40 miles".

- The car jumped right out of my hands. - That's very pretty, but why really?

For just that reason. I've wondered about you so many times.

Were you married? Were you as pretty as ever?

- Were you still here? - Behind the same old counter.

- But that's a crime. - Is that Mac Tilton out there?

It sure is.

- Pretend he looks alright. - He's been sick?

Now, now, now.

Well, old-timer. You look just fine.

Yes, don't I, Mac.

I feel like I've been hit by a truck.

Did you hear about the man that got run over by a steamroller?

No trouble at all. They took him home and slipped him right under the door.

That's good.

We'll let you rest, darling.

- Good to see you, Mac. - And you.

What are you going to do when he's gone?

Sell the store. Pay our debts.

- And find myself a job. - In this whistle-stop?

My best friends the Piersens run the big pianola factory.

You're not counting on that? Pianolas are dead, Jody baby.

That factory will be closed inside of two years.

You come to New York. That's the place for you.

- I don't know anybody there. - That's not true.

You know a very influential man.

Why, Mac.

Did you catch the car?

Come on.

That's yours?

Mac, it's a beauty.

Yeah, that's mine.

Things are going on in the world.

You folks around here just haven't caught on.

For heaven's sake, Mac.

- What business are you in? - Well, I am kind-of a promoter.

- You must promote something wonderful. - I call it Lady Vyvyan beauty products.

V-Y-V-Y-A-N. Class, huh?

- You own the company? - I am practically Lady Vyvyan.

Listen, Jody baby.

- You come to New York. - I'll never leave here, Mac.

Come to New York where the money is.

Money.

You don't know what fun that stuff is when you get your hands on it.

How warm it makes you feel inside.

How nice it makes other people act.

Money.

Head waiters like you so much.

Ushers at shows find you such lovely seats.

The way Pullman porters brush your coat. Every darned stroke a caress.

Money.

I'm going to get you in on it.

Everything I love is in Piersen Falls, Mac.

By everything do you happen to mean some special guy?

Yes.

The one in the scrapbook?

So, you went and fell in love when I wasn't around.

You found yourself that brand-new sky-blue-pink world?

Eighty miles wasted.

Are you going to marry him?

It would surprise me very much.

Obstacles, huh?

That's wonderful.

- Want to talk them over with uncle Mac? - No.

You're too close to the problem.

You think, because there's just one guy in this hick town you go for,

there's just one guy in the world.

- Get away and you'd get over it. - Never.

Well,

I guess the answer to that is goodbye.

- Goodbye, Mac. - Goodbye, Jody.

By the way...

Why don't you paste this in your scrapbook too?

That's my business card.

- You see I'm a hopeful cuss. - Mac...

Miss Norris, come in.

- I'm so sorry to hear of your loss. - Thank you, Ida.

- Jody, good to have you here again. - Hello, Jody.

I haven't had a chance to really thank you for all your help.

- Come and sit down. - You sold the drugstore, I hear.

- Made any plans? - Well...

Alec, do you mind? I'd like to talk to Corinne alone.

Of course not, I'll take my red ink to the other room.

You know, if not for one Indian tribe preferring pianolas to gramophones,

I don't know where we would be.

Yes, Jody?

I have to get a job.

Would you let me come here as Griggsy's nurse?

- Live here? - I'd like that very much.

You know how I feel about Griggsy.

Yes, I do. That's why I don't think it would be wise.

I won't spoil him, promise.

I won't even discuss it, Jody. It's impossible.

You don't understand.

I think I do.

Will you look at this?

It's Griggsy's birth certificate.

He is my own baby.

I have thought so. For some time.

- His father was Captain... - You needn't tell me these things.

They make no difference.

- No difference to know Griggsy's mine? - He was your baby. He's not anymore.

- I have the papers of adoption. - You adopted Griggsy?

So whoever it was that gave him up couldn't come back and claim him.

For just that reason.

- But I never gave him up. - You made no open claim.

- The court gave him to me! - Corinne!

He is all I have got in the world. You have got everything.

A home, a husband. You will have other children.

I haven't a husband though.

Not really.

I know that now.

Alec married me because he couldn't marry you.

Corinne...

You're harking back to a silly schoolboy crush that Alec forgot years ago.

He hasn't given me a thought since he married you.

No? He never kisses me.

He never turns to me that he doesn't wish it were you.

We could have been happy. Only you sit in my chair.

And sleep in my bed and poison the air I breathe.

- You imagine this. - One human being loves me and needs me.

My little boy.

I'll never give him up to you.

- Never, never, never! - Corinne, wait.

Wait! Alec!

Corinne has an insane idea you're in love with me. Tell her it isn't true.

- I tried to. - Make her believe it.

- Yes, do. - Corinne, we went through all this.

You wanted to tell me and almost said the words but were afraid.

- Why don't you stop lying? - It's not true.

Tell her, Alec. Tell her!

It's no use, Jody, she knows.

She knows just as if she was inside me.

I'm not going to lie about it anymore. I love you, Jody. I always have.

Thank you, Alec.

You didn't want the truth. What did you want?

- Corinne! Corinne, wait! - Don't talk to her while she's like this.

- Listen, Jody darling... - Don't touch me.

- Don't come near me. - Jody, do you hate me?

You have come between me and my baby, Alec.

Griggsy is mine. My own.

Jody.

Corinne was right then.

- What are you going to do? - I don't know.

- Go away. - Is there anything I can do?

No.

Yes, there is.

Write me about him.

Send me pictures.

Barry, stop playing with that knife!

Barry!

Listen to your mother, Barry!

Barry!

Stop with that knife playing around.

I'm going to send your father down. You will see what you're going to get.

Barry!

Barry, listen to your mother!

Okay, cut it again and put the Kentucky label on it.

Someone is outside asking questions about Lady Vyvyan again.

- I got a tip from the city hall. - They got a line on us.

Quit squawking. Why do you think I pay all that money?

- This joint is starting to smell. - Cut it out.

Who's asking questions? A cop or a plain-clothes man?

- A woman this time. She says her name... - Shush.

Blow, you jug heads.

- What about the rest of the load? - Blow.

Jody baby.

You were right, Mac.

- Here I am in New York. - Alone?

- Have you got a job for me? - You bet I have.

Thank heavens.

The thought of this job just saved my reason.

All the way from home I've been thinking about Lady Vyvyan.

- Ideas for selling. Ideas for the product. - Your job wouldn't be with Lady Vyvyan...

Exactly.

But why not, Mac? That's what I would be good at.

Papa used to make wonderful cold-cream and face lotions.

Only he charged so little that nobody had any faith in them.

Save your breath, baby. You may as well hear the facts.

There's no real Lady Vyvyan.

There's a sign and some equipment but that's as far as it goes.

Then why did you give me that card? Why did you build up my hopes for nothing?

Not for nothing, baby.

I'm not just making mud pies, I'm in big business.

Once in a while a chance for real dough comes along.

Like the railroads when they started. Or gold in Alaska.

This time it's prohibition.

You're a bootlegger.

That's right.

How would I work into that?

Do you know the Savoy Carlton Hotel?

First, you go there and get yourself a nice big suite.

Across the way there's a big wide bank, where you open yourself a bank account.

About half a block away is the best fur store in the world.

I always kinda pictured you in a mink coat.

Okay then, sable.

This is silly.

I forgot to tell you.

About four blocks away, there's a jewellery store named Cartier.

We go in there together and pick out a wedding ring.

Mac...

You are the one girl in the world I would say the hard words with.

Dear old Mac.

- It's okay then? - No.

It is goodbye.

What I want is a job.

A job for the future.

What is wrong with my future?

This isn't some little hick town. I got my protection organized.

I sit pretty, with guys planted on the force and in city hall and up in Albany.

It's sewed up so tight and so legal...

I'll tell you about it in a minute.

Hey, Captain.

Tilton? Search warrant.

- This is a cosmetics plant. - Where do you keep the hooch?

Now, just a minute.

Don't hand me that if you don't want another count in your indictment.

- We've found it, Captain. - Yeah, about 2,000 of these.

Okay. Come on.

Come on, boys, get going.

- Is that you, Andy? - It's me.

They said you would be out on bail.

It's sweet to hang around but you don't want to get mixed up with a guy like me now.

I'm here to talk business, Mac.

Are you kidding or crazy? I am out of business.

Five thousand dollars for bail. Ten thousand for my lawyer.

My entire stock smashed.

- I'm cleaned out. - Yes, you're out of one business.

But you've got another. Come here.

These things work, you know.

Put wax and lanolin and perfume in that and you've got cold-cream.

That's the machine that puts it in a jar. Those jars you can sell.

Who wants to sell cold-cream? I made rot-gut for 2 bucks a quart and sold it for 15.

You'll get $1,10 for something you make for 4 cents.

No police raids, not bail, no lawyers.

It takes money to start a business. I haven't a hundred bucks left.

I've got twenty. With what you got, will that make a hundred?

For a $100 you can make 2,000 jars.

You're the best salesman I know. You can sell those jars in a day.

- And then? - We make 30,000, a 100,000.

My friend Daisy Gingras will go in with us. I called the wholesale supplier.

It's open until midnight. Here's a list of what we need. Pick it up.

And here's my $20.

You think to start now?

Sooner you start, sooner you've something to sell.

- Wait a minute, we got to eat. - Get some hamburgers.

These things are filthy, I've got to scour them out.

Go along, hurry up!

And I thought I was a go-getter.

Jody...

Why are you doing this?

For somebody I love. I've got to make money in a hurry, Mac.

- The guy in the scrapbook? - Yes.

I'd like to get a hold of him and kick his teeth in.

Please don't, Mac. They are such little teeth.

He is only 16 months old.

He is my son.

He is quite a fellow, isn't he.

Where is his father?

Dead.

You poor kid.

Marry me, Jody, please.

When you have been wildly and deeply in love, Mac,

you don't stop loving just because somebody dies.

And certainly not if there's a child.

It's the same love.

But you are young, Jody.

Pick up the stuff or the place will be closed.

It isn't the way I figured you'd spend your first evening in New York.

8 o'clock.

And Lady Vyvyan Beauty Products presents:

The Week In Review.

A program fresh and crisp.

As Lady Vyvyan products.

Play of the week:

The Passing Show of 1924.

Picture of the week:

Flaming Youth with winsome Colleen Moore.

Fashion of the week: the tube dress.

No shoulders, no hips, no waist. It is adorable.

Song of the week? Let Lady Vyvyan songsters tell you.

That's pretty.

I'm glad you like it. It costs us $1,500 a week.

$1,500 a week?

Since it started last week our sales went twenty percent.

Twenty-two.

As I did this on my own, I need a vote of approval.

- Before Mac sails for England. - Imagine us starting a factory in London.

- All in favour? - Aye.

So enter it.

- Meeting adjourned, fellows. - Wait a minute.

English business methods are different from our own.

Here are facts and specifications you must know before you open negotiations.

Now promise me you will study these on the boat.

I swear. Now can I go?

Is stage door Johnny number one still seeing the music box revue every night?

Same aisle, same seat.

- A different girl though. - A new tramp.

How about coming over to my place, sweetie?

The new puppies are the sweetest thing you ever saw.

- I stay here, I've things to work out. - Aren't we rich enough now?

- Turn off the centre light. - Okay. Goodnight.

That kid is around again, isn't he.

He gets in tomorrow.

I can always tell when you're boiling up for one of those half-baked reunions.

- You can't sleep so you work all night. - Alec sent me this.

A ticket for the rodeo.

Next to Griggsy.

- Another "accidental" meetings I suppose. - They have to be.

Otherwise Griggsy might mention them at home.

He is so smart.

I wish they lived in Kamchatka and never came near New York.

Don't say that, Daisy.

You see just enough of him so you don't get any life of your own outside this business.

It's like keeping somebody alive by feeding him with a medicine dropper.

- Goodnight. - Goodnight.

But it does keep me alive.

Hi, young fellow. Will you hold this for me?

Yes, sir.

Hold it way up in the air. Thank you.

Here, I'll hold you up so you can get it real high for him.

Now watch him.

Watch him, he is getting ready.

He is standing up.

Hold it up high.

I held it for him!

You sure did.

Where's your program, Griggsy?

- Is this yours? - Yes. Thank you.

She's crying.

Do you want a hankie?

Thank you.

The cowboys don't get hurt you know.

They look as though they do but they don't.

The cows have awfully long horns.

Those aren't cows, those are steers.

They can't get up here.

Are you sure? Will you protect me if they do?

I will grab their horns and twist them down.

This is the first rodeo I've ever seen.

Cowboys that stay on longest get prizes.

The funny ones are clowns.

Balloons! Buckaroo balloons, ten cents! Get your balloon!

He'll be down here, Griggsy.

- He might sell them all. - Okay.

One for you, one for your brother and one for the baby.

- The baby is too little. - Better get three.

The mortality rate in balloons is awfully high.

Hello.

- Is he always as gay as that? - Nearly always.

You should see those three kids together.

I'm bringing all of them to town next time. That is, if there is a next time.

If?

The pianola business is sunk.

If I can't raise some money to convert the factory I don't know what happens.

- That's why we came to town. - To raise money?

I've a meeting at the bank tomorrow morning. Cross your fingers for me.

Look, Dad. Look.

Wait a minute, you don't get her.

- You get these. - I want my dad to see her.

- That's alright. - Look, Dad.

Say, that's a peach.

It's Carol. Queen of the "coal".

No, no, no. It's Carol, the Queen of the corral.

Isn't she the best that ever was?

- She's got real eyelashes. - How much?

That's not for sale, mister. That's what you call a come on.

Balloons at ten cents.

You want me to hold one of these for you?

- The green one. - Right. Thank you.

They're pretty, aren't they.

- Do you want to hold one? - Thank you very much.

That's alright.

- Hello. - Hello.

I'm the engineer. Do you want to buy some coal?

- Well, I... - Jody.

May I come in, Corinne?

Of course.

Go deliver that coal that mother bought in the bedrooms.

I delivered it.

Well, there's some people down on Maple Street who want coal.

Go and sell it to them.

Shut the door.

You have two children of your own now, I understand.

Yes.

A little boy almost three and a baby girl.

Meanwhile, you've become a very successful person they tell me.

- I have been lucky. - I am glad.

Well,

I know you're busy. You didn't come here just to pass the time of day I presume.

You're quite right, Corinne.

I want Griggsy.

We had all this out four years ago.

Nothing has changed.

Except your financial situation.

- You have heard we are hard up. - You're not hard up, Corinne.

You are bankrupt.

Nonsense.

We are going to convert the factory. They want us to make radio cabinets.

- Alec is getting the money right now. - Yes, Alec is at the bank.

The bank is waiting to hear from me before they give him his answer.

From you?

I have been carrying obligations of yours.

So you have found a way to get even with me.

I don't want to get even with you, I want to cancel your notes.

I want to give you and Alec enough money to put the factory on its feet.

But I also want Griggsy.

Griggsy is not for sale.

You've got your other children to think about.

No.

Griggsy is not for sale.

Now will you please leave.

Very well.

Murray Hill 8500.

- What are you doing? - Calling the bank.

Security Trust Company?

- Mr Anderson please. - Listen.

I will have to talk to Alec before I decide.

I'll have Mr Anderson put him on. What are you going to tell Alec?

That you're going to throw away his one single chance?

Your children's one chance?

You are incredibly cruel.

Come, come, Corinne, that's no word to use between us.

Not you and me.

Mr Anderson? Miss Norris speaking.

- About the Piersen loan... - Wait.

Just a minute please. I will have to have some time.

I want to leave with Griggsy.

Now?

This morning?

What do I say?

What do I say?

I'll tell Griggsy.

Wait a minute.

Mr Anderson, go ahead with the loan.

Whatever Mr Piersen needs.

I don't want you to see Griggsy alone. I don't trust what you'll say to him.

You're right to be worried. It won't work.

He loves us. And we love him.

For four years I've never slept without pretending his crib was beside my bed.

My whole life has been built around him, working, waiting for the day.

There's so much love stored up for that little boy.

No, I'm not worried about Griggsy.

Call him.

Where are you, old thing? Where the jolly well are you?

Mac!

- We were meeting your boat at 6 o'clock. - Docked two hours early.

- How is the London situation? - No shop talk. I'm here to meet the kid.

He's at the park with Daisy. You'll see him in a minute.

I needn't ask about you. I bet it's been like a honeymoon but twice as good.

- Maybe just as well I wasn't here. - Come on, I've finished.

- Who is this? - Carol, the Queen of the corral.

It's a surprise for Griggsy.

I've been tracking her down for two solid months.

You never spent two months buying me a balloon.

I tell you I'm getting jealous.

Here they are now. Come along.

I don't know how it's going to hit me when I see that kid run into your arms.

Hello, Daisy.

Mac Tilton!

- It's good to see you. - And you. How are you?

Fine...

Hello, darling.

Hello.

- Here? Let me help you with that. - I can do it myself, thanks.

Was the park fun today?

- It was alright. - Did you meet any people?

I saw someone who looked like Mr Jenkins.

Who is Mr Jenkins?

He is my dog back home.

This dog wasn't funny like Mr Jenkins though.

No?

Is my face dirty, aunt Jody?

Not very. Why?

You keep looking at it so hard.

I am sorry.

You're always being sorry.

Here's an old friend of mine, Mr Tilton.

This is Mr Griggsy Piersen.

Hi, skipper.

Hello.

Boo!

He thinks I'm silly and he's right.

Listen, skipper.

You're going to get a peach of a surprise before long.

Something you'll really like.

- You got him another expensive toy? - This isn't that kind of surprise.

I have seen her. She's wonderful.

- The surprise is a lady? - In a pretty hat.

When do I get this surprise?

- When? - How about right now?

Please.

You're wonderful, Mac.

Come along.

Now shut your eyes.

Now.

It's the balloon.

You don't like it.

- What is it, Griggsy? - Nothing.

No.

Tell me.

I felt maybe it was my mother.

Alright. He's homesick. It's only natural he'd be a little homesick.

- A little? - Don't exaggerate.

- He'll get over it. - He calls you "aunt" Jody.

Have you told him you're his mother?

Not yet. I must wait for the right moment.

If it's not the happiest news in the world for Griggsy, it would be horrible.

Now wait a minute, that's a regular kid. That's no problem child.

No.

I am a problem mother.

He's just not used to the place yet.

- After more than two months? - He'll snap out of it.

Maybe he will and maybe not.

Don't say that. Don't be glum about it.

- He is sure to eventually. - Listen, I know what I'm talking about.

You see, I was sashayed myself when I was his age.

My mother was kind-of a tramp.

My grandmother couldn't stand the way I was being raised.

She took me.

She was a sweet old girl, I guess.

Cookie jars, birthday cakes.

All that junk.

But kids aren't logical.

I happened to love that boozy little mother of mine.

Was I homesick?

Well...

Alright, you were miserable and homesick for a little while.

How long did it last?

A year, a year and a half.

There you are. That's exactly what I mean.

You got over it.

Yeah.

I turned into a dandy, grumpy old maid always fighting myself and everybody.

Why talk like that?

You're being horrible, the cases aren't similar at all. You should see that.

Well,

I've put in my 2-cents' worth. So long, sweetie.

Mac.

So long.

Just one more thing.

You know, that sweet old grandmother of mine?

I hated her guts until the day she died.

Now, I'm going to tell you something.

You go right in that room and tell that kid you're his mother.

Not yet, Mac.

I'm the one to decide when it's time for that.

The time is now.

Is it, Mac?

Right now.

Go on.

Griggsy, darling.

Yes, aunt Jody.

There's something I want to tell you. Come here a minute.

It isn't easy

and I want you to help me.

Yes, aunt Jody.

Have you ever wondered why Corinne, your mother,

let you come and live with me?

I guess you asked her.

Yes, Griggsy.

- But why did I want you? - Because you're lonely.

Yes, Griggsy.

- But why you especially? - I don't know.

That's what I'm trying to explain.

You see, Corinne and Alec loved you very much.

But you were their adopted child. Do you know what "adopted" means?

Yes, I do. Once back home, the Jones kids called me that

and my mother explained.

That's why she loves me better that the others.

And you haven't any right to talk to me about it.

Griggsy!

Well?

You didn't tell him?

I am not his mother.

Not really.

I know that now.

Just bringing a child into the world doesn't make you that.

It's being there always.

It's nursing him through whooping cough and measles.

And knowing what to say when he's hurt.

It's all the things I've missed.

Get me long distance.

I want Piersen Falls, New York.

The number is 162.

I want to speak to Mrs Piersen.

Is there anything I can do?

Yes.

Let me go to London.

And find me fourteen hours work a day.

Yes, I'm holding the line.

- The Huddersfield train? - That's right, ma'am.

- No-one off yet? - No, madam.

- Are you Lieutenant Piersen? - No, ma'am.

- Lieutenant Piersen? - Not me.

Lieutenant Piersen?

- Lieutenant Piersen? - No, ma'am.

Lieutenant Piersen?

- Lieutenant Piersen? - No, ma'am.

Lieutenant Piersen?

- Lieutenant Piersen? - No, ma'am.

- Oh, dear. Do you know him? - No, ma'am.

But I can yell that out real loud for you, ma'am.

Never mind.

You're Lieutenant Piersen, aren't you?

I sure am.

- How did you know? - From old photographs.

I used to know your mother and father in Piersen Falls.

I heard you were coming in on this train. My name is Norris.

You don't mean you got up at this ungodly hour to meet me?

Well, Major McNair didn't know where you would be staying.

I'm not quite sure myself.

That's what I thought. Accommodations are so hard to find.

And in case you didn't have any, I might be of use.

That's swell of you, but a friend promised to attend to it.

- How long is your leave? - A week.

- Do you know London? - Only from above.

I have lived here for over 20 years.

In case you'd like somebody to show you the sights, I'd be glad to anytime.

I certainly appreciate that, but I'm afraid my time is...

Things like theatre tickets.

I thought tonight perhaps you'd like to see the new musical play at The Palace.

It's called Something In The Air and they say it's terribly funny.

Griggs! Griggsy!

Liz!

Griggs, the most foul luck, my leave has been cancelled.

- No... - I almost missed you altogether.

- Holy Canarsie. When do you punch in? - Five this afternoon.

- You've only got until five? - It's a mess.

I couldn't even find you a room, I looked all over London.

This is Liz Lorimer.

- Mrs Norris. - Miss Norris.

Hello. I couldn't help overhearing.

I have a guest room I would be delighted for you to use.

That's wizard.

It sure is.

And if Miss Lorimer is going away and you will be lonesome,

perhaps you will dine with me and go to see the play?

Sure, sure.

I live in Richmond Court, just off Grosvenor Square.

Richmond Court

- Now, how about a nice hot breakfast? - Rather, I'm starving.

- You'll come along? - I've had breakfast.

Leave that here. I'll get it home for you.

That's the kind of treatment you get when you're from Piersen Falls.

- See you later. - Goodbye.

Unload me, will you.

- Where do you want these? - On the table.

All those towels with only five inches of bath water?

Give him my best eiderdown!

Anybody would think Winston Churchill was coming to stay.

Where does the book go, Miss?

That's not for here. I want to lock it away.

Miss, you do look such a treat.

Thank you, Dora. Do me up, will you?

After four years this zip has gone on strike.

- Where did you put the tickets for tonight? - On the telephone table in the hall, Miss.

Hold still, Miss. Please.

- I can't do you up if you're darting about. - Sorry.

I'd say this is on strike.

Sorry, Miss. Did that tickle?

People's smiles never change do they.

There we are.

Never mind. I will go.

You get the cocktails.

- I thought... - Norris?

Yes.

Sign here.

I can guess who they're from.

- Wasn't it a young American? - I only deliver.

I expect there's a card.

Thank you.

Oh dear.

I should have given him a tip.

Well, that's a shame.

Well.

"You're dining with me tonight.

"Desham."

I am, am I?

Thank you, Lord Desham.

- Never mind. - I know. You'll go.

Hello, Miss Norris. The most terrific thing has happened.

She told me her train went at five and really it left at four-thirty.

Well, holy Canarsie. Don't you see? She missed it purposely.

Just so she could be with me.

Look, I got exactly

twelve minutes.

I feel awful using your apartment as a hotel but you understand, don't you?

It really is terribly important. Do you mind if I wash and change?

Of course not.

I've put your things in here.

Now, what is all this rush?

You can't go to the theatre?

No, no, I can go.

- The bathroom is in there. - Thanks.

I mean, in a way I can go.

Look, Miss Norris,

it's terrible to ask you but you spoke of your tickets for The Palace.

That's right.

- You can't buy them for love nor money. - I know, I had to pull strings.

I'd never have the nerve to ask her myself, but...

That's the one show that Liz wants to see.

She has to go back to her camp tonight and...

I thought maybe you could see it sometime later and...

Well, would you sell them to me?

- Of course you can have them. - Miss Norris, you know something?

- What? - You're swell.

- I'll let you get cleaned up. - Don't go.

Stay and talk.

Where is Miss... Liz, now?

Out goldbricking something to take the last train tonight.

- How about dinner? - We're eating after the show.

We forgot lunch but we had tea twice.

Well, there's a table reserved for two at The Ronsard.

You can have that.

Swell.

- Do you have enough money? - You sound like mom.

I am rich. I am a pilot.

- We've had an awful day. - Awful?

Spent most of it trying to get married. You can't just get married in England.

You have to post bans and things.

It takes forever.

- Fifteen days, isn't it? - That's what I said.

Are you terribly disappointed?

What do you think?

- You seem pretty gay. - I got to be. Liz is so blue.

I've got to make her enjoy this evening somehow.

Your tickets will sure help. How much are they?

- Let me give them to you. - I tell you I am rich.

Just to give me pleasure.

You're out of this world. Will you give me something else?

What?

A hug.

Now, where are those tickets?

You will be seeing plenty of him.

He's going be here a week.

A whole week.

What am I looking for?

Those tickets.

Dora.

I must have put them in my room.

I've found them, Miss Norris.

Good.

These are of me when I was a kid.

Yes.

What is this book?

It's a scrapbook that I started for your mother years ago.

But never sent it.

For a minute I forgot that you were from back home.

Wait now.

What's your first name?

Josephine.

Why, you're the aunt Jody I stayed with when I was a kid.

You didn't like it very much I'm afraid.

Well I...

I missed the folks, I guess.

Look at all this stuff that Liz and I had to fill out.

It wasn't any good.

Well, next time.

- Goodbye. - Goodnight.

You can have breakfast any time you want it.

I'm going back to the field, didn't I tell you?

Tonight?

I can't get married until I get another leave,

so I have to do 18 more missions. So why waste time?

You've been nice.

I've...

I have loved seeing you.

- Goodbye. - Wait a minute.

These are for Liz.

Well, I say, that's wonderful. Thanks.

Goodbye.

- What the blazes? Where are you going? - I'm sorry.

If you've broken that bottle of sherry you'd better be.

It sounds alright.

I'm looking for Miss Norris's flat.

Top of the stairs. The one I just came out of.

Wait a minute.

- What are those flowers. - They're for my girl. Swell, aren't they?

Your girl, eh?

That's right.

Blast.

- Miss Norris? - Are you expected, sir?

Dispose of that.

I had forgotten about you.

You can't go save people's lives and treat them like this. It just isn't done.

Yet I let my job go to pot while I comb London for orchids and sherry...

- I'll not go to dinner with you. - We discuss that later.

- Why did that hooligan have my flowers? - He's not a hooligan.

- You have been crying. - Yes, I have.

- Not about that boy? - Yes.

- But he's young enough to be your son. - He is my son.

Though he doesn't know about it.

And he never will.

So that's what you couldn't talk about.

He is a fine boy. You must be proud of him.

I hoped for one week I was going to have him around.

Just around.

- You're not going to? - He is going back to camp.

His girl's leave has been cancelled.

They ran into a lot of red tape about their marriage.

Those poor children, wandering around all day.

I should be feeling sorry for them, not for myself.

You'd like them to marry?

That's what he wants.

I would like to give him the sun and the moon and the stars.

All his life I have wanted to.

I thought for this week I could feel like a real mother.

Showering things on him. Spoiling him.

All he wants is his girl.

I can't help him with that.

After twenty years, what have I been able to give him?

Two theatre tickets and a table at The Ronsard.

I'm sorry.

You can see I'm in no condition to go out to dinner with you.

- Make it supper. At the Ronsard. - No.

It will give you your last glimpse of him.

They will be saying goodbye. I can't intrude on that.

I said a glimpse. We will be at our own table.

- But look at me. - You look charming.

I'll give you two hours to pull yourself together.

Alright.

Good.

The devil with the war. I shall wear a black tie. I'll be back.

Boop, boop, tittum tattum, bottum choo

Boop, boop, tittum tattum, bottum choo

And they fwam and they fwam all over the dam

In the last war they played tunes that meant something. "They fwam"!

I tell you it's insane.

Here they are.

Do you hear what they're playing? It's terrible for those children.

I don't suppose you could ask them to stop?

After all, they haven't bought the place.

- I guess somebody just got married. - Something of the sort, sir.

Now, we mustn't let this get us down, Third Officer Lorimer.

Of course not, Lieutenant.

At least it shows that people can still get married round here.

They haven't lost the formula.

As a youngster, I used to get a great pride from being in a place like this,

with the very prettiest girl.

All boys do.

Boys? I'm getting it now.

Is there a Wren officer here by the name of Miss Lorimer?

That means trouble. She missed her train, you know.

And what can they do with a refractory Wren? Clip her wings?

It's not a laughing matter.

Watch.

- My leave has been extended! - Holy Canarsie, Liz!

What does it mean?

Her leave has been extended. I phoned the admiralty.

Bless you.

What are you up to now?

- Get your things together. - What for?

Get your things together. Come along.

If you'll excuse me sir, will you and Miss Lorimer step this way?

I thought this table was too good for a Lieutenant.

Just follow me, sir.

I tell you I don't like surprises.

I'm afraid you will have to get used to them.

- Where are you taking us? - You'll see in a moment, Miss.

Holy Canarsie.

Do you mean we are going to get married?

- We can't be, we haven't got a license. - The bans have been waived.

But nobody can do that except the Archbishop of Canterbury.

Exactly.

What is this?

A present from Miss Norris.

Holy Canarsie.

Holy Canarsie!

Will the bride and groom please sign the marriage license.

To keep the records straight, the birth date on my application is approximate.

- I'm adopted. - It makes no difference.

This isn't a present from Miss Norris.

This is a present for Miss Norris.

There'll be another one after the ceremony, I'll tell that young man.

No.

- No, you mustn't. - I'm going to.

No, please. You don't understand.

- The witnesses are here? - We are indeed.

Here is the ring, young man.

If you say "Holy canary", I shan't give it to you.

I'm speechless.

I thought of everything.

Blast.

The wedding cake.

- A cake, sir? - It's too late now.

Not at all.

Dearly beloved, we are gathered together here in the sight of God

and in the sight of this congregation

to join together this man and this woman.

- Wedding cake. - Which one this time, sir?

Army? Navy?

Tank or Air?

- Air. - Air, yes. Air, air, air...

Ain't she beautiful.

- There's something missing here. - Which? The piece they eat!

The Air Force is pretty popular.

That's the 79th time this cake has been used, you know.

I'm afraid it's getting a bit battered.

Put that down and open the door. Bring the cake right away, come on.

- We're just dreaming this, you realize. - Let's try to remember it though.

You're not to tell him, I absolutely forbid it.

He has got a mother he loves.

He has got a bride.

He likes me now.

He is grateful to me.

That's enough.

If you tell him I shall never forgive you.

I have got to say it, sir.

Holy canary.

- How can we even begin to thank you? - Why should you be so wonderful to me?

Strange, isn't it.

You're both Americans.

Not enough.

Both from the same little town.

- Not enough. - Lord Desham.

Why don't we dance?

A pleasure.

If you ever figure it out, let me know.

- And they tell there isn't any Santa Claus. - That wonderful Miss Norris.

Was she terribly fond of you when you were a little boy?

I saw the way she looked at you when you signed the register.

Anyone would have thought you were her own son.

That I was her...

Excuse me, darling.

I think this is our dance, mother.