Original subtitles

CASTLE OF GRIANTA - LAKE COMO 1815

Fabrice.

Aunt...

Where are you going?

- I've decided to enlist. - To enlist?

Yes, haven't you heard?

Napoleon has escaped from Elba. He's assembling an army.

Yes, I know.

I can't stay here doing nothing. I must join them.

- And fight? - Yes, like your husband.

Italy will not be Austria's slave. Napoleon will free us.

You don't know what you're talking about.

I do know. You've taught me.

You and dear Father Blanes.

You'll risk your life.

I'm ready to risk it for freedom.

You're so young.

Soon I won't be.

Wait here.

Take this.

Your husband's sword? I can't accept it.

Take it.

He loved you. He would be proud.

- You are just as handsome. - I want to be a hero, as he was.

Farewell. I must leave before my father finds out.

You know his views.

- Kiss my mother... - I'll explain it to her.

I don't know how to thank you.

Come back.

Why don't you know where he is? You're his mother.

How could I know where he is? I haven't any idea.

- I swear. - And you, Gina?

You must know. He tells you everything.

He knows he can rely on my discretion.

You speak of discretion? Discretion!

He will once again get into trouble and embarrass the Del Dongo name

from Milan to Vienna.

I thought you were concerned for your son, not your name.

I know where my brother is.

In France. He went to fight for Napoleon.

All is lost. This is a disaster.

When the Austrians find out, our family will be called traitors.

Yes, unless...

Unless what?

Unless we denounce him ourselves to the Austrians.

How could you, Ascanio?

To call him a traitor would be a death sentence.

Would that be so terrible

for a man who is willing to die for Napoleon?

You're responsible for this. For years, you taught him

stupid ideas by speaking of brotherhood, freedom, and the rest.

That boy's absurd decision is your fault!

Only you are responsible for this.

Sergeant?

You do know how to fire a rifle, don't you?

A rifle? Well...

We need backup and they send us kids.

Do you see that one?

Take his uniform and rifle. You'll look like a soldier.

Attack! Attack!

Forward!

Let's go!

Come with me!

We're almost there.

The Emperor is going!

Look!

- It's him! - Don't stand there.

- Where are you going? - To join the Emperor!

Don't you see he's retreating?

Ladies...

Ask me why I'm in uniform.

Certainly not for war.

Waging war is no longer necessary.

Napoleon has been defeated.

In Waterloo. We have nothing to fear.

The Austrians will bring order to Europe.

- And Fabrice? - He is dead to me.

How can you say that? What if he is truly dead?

His death would certainly be best for the family.

I no longer want to hear his name. Never again. Forget it.

Don't cry.

I'm sure Fabrice is alive. We'll hear from him soon.

- I have friends in Milan. - Gina, go to Milan.

MILAN

LA SCALA THEATER

When a decision is made, it should not be questioned.

Dear Countess, what a joy it is to see you again.

Thank you, Baron Binder.

That's Countess Pietranera, Your Excellency.

Her husband fought against us with Napoleon.

If rumors are to be believed, she still shares his views.

But is a more beautiful woman to be found in our Empire?

Countess?

Mister Governor.

What a wonderful surprise.

I knew I'd find you here, Count Mosca.

- I've come here for you. - For me?

Let's step away.

This way.

Will you come?

So then, what do you have to say to me?

We haven't heard from my nephew, Fabrice Del Dongo.

Yes.

Fabrice recklessly decided to join Napoleon's army at Waterloo.

- Recklessly? Rather courageously. - Courageously, yes.

His mother and I have lost hope.

Napoleon was defeated. We haven't heard from Fabrice.

As for your brother, the Marquis Del Dongo?

My brother has disowned Fabrice. He sees him as a traitor.

And to you,

he is a hero.

He is only 18.

He's spirited and full of dreams.

He's like you.

I will try to help him and find him. I promise you that.

I am deeply grateful.

You're the most wonderful man I know.

But will it put you in danger?

Making you happy is my greatest joy.

Gina, don't go back to your brother's in Grianta.

You aren't suited for that life.

- You deserve better, much better. - Where should I go?

- I haven't any fortune. - Stay with me.

For you, I'll give up everything.

My palace, my position as Minister in Parma...

My dear Count, we have always spoken the truth.

I would be lying

if I said I could love you as a 20-year-old loves.

But I care for and admire you, in a way unlike any other.

You are my only friend.

- If you weren't already married... - I haven't seen my wife in years.

Come to Parma with me.

What will the Court say?

"There's the widow Pietranera, born Del Dongo,."

"Count Mosca's mistress."

Forgive me. I'm only thinking of myself.

- I'm selfish. - No, you aren't.

- That's why I've come to you. - I will do everything to help you.

PRINCIPALITY OF PARMA

I make the decisions in Parma.

Your advice offends me, Rassi.

We're in danger, Your Highness.

The revolutionaries may use the opportunity to stir up trouble.

Those revolutionaries.

Ever since I took the throne, their only wish is to kill me.

Every day, a new plot is uncovered. It's terrifying.

My dear Rassi, you may indeed be Minister of Justice,

but you exaggerate.

There aren't any plots against you, Your Highness.

I do not share Count Mosca's view, Your Highness.

To protect the State,

I am convinced that some public executions are necessary.

In doing so, we will arouse anger in Parma and all of Italy.

You are very wise, Count Mosca.

But now, please let us be.

Rassi!

Stay.

Two revolutionaries shall be hung.

Their bodies will remain on the gallows in view of all.

If my memory is correct,

you receive an income of 1,500 francs.

For one year, nine months, and three days,

you have been enjoying my hospitality.

I must remind you that you are no longer young, Gina.

Perhaps it would be best...

What do you want?

To have me be married?

There's someone whom we could introduce you to.

Really, you'll never lose the urge to try to marry me off.

If you had enough good sense to take my advice,

rather than marry a poor officer,

you wouldn't be in this situation.

Marry a man in a wig? The thought still makes me laugh.

Better a man in a wig who is alive

than a man in uniform who died defending.

Napoleon's honor, as Count Pietranera had done,

if I'm not mistaken.

That was my husband.

Talk about him with respect.

If I weren't here, you'd be living in squalor.

It bothered you, not me.

The thought that people would talk.

Or would you rather sell me to the highest bidder?

Fabrice?

- Gina... - Fabrice.

Does your wound hurt?

I'm not in my own bed.

Why are you whispering?

Your father can't know that you've come back.

Ascanio... told him about you.

My brother?

He told the police that...

you planned to give Napoleon secret information.

Napoleon lost the battle.

And I have lost everything.

You're alive.

You'll be hung if they find you.

The Austrians and your father think you're traitor.

Then I...

Tonight you'll be safe in my room.

Who nursed you?

A vivandiere.

Women will be your good fortune.

When you were gone, it was so hard.

I was proud of you,

but I missed you.

I thought I would never see you again.

But here you are.

Thanks to God.

And now.

I understand how important you are to me

and how much I've been hurt by love.

Father, I had to see you again.

My son, my dear son.

I knew you would return one day or another.

Seeing that heaven has granted me this last pleasure,

I can now die in peace. In five months I will be gone.

For once, I hope that your predictions are wrong.

My predictions are still correct.

This is your astral card, your fate, be careful.

Now that I am here with you,

I feel as though I'm 10 again.

Fabrice, come closer and look.

Fabrice! Get up, you must go!

Wake up! Your aunt will be waiting on the road to Milan.

Quickly! Hurry!

Hurry up!

Fabrice! Get in!

Quickly!

To Milan!

The one who can help us is a Minister.

Not in Milan, unfortunately, but in Parma.

All of Europe knows him.

Are you listening?

- Forgive me. - What is on your mind?

Perhaps I should turn myself in.

- Just go directly to the gallows. - I would die a brave man.

As a hero of freedom.

Stop the coach! Stop!

Come out of there.

Let me speak.

Take out your passports.

I am Countess Pietranera.

I don't need a passport to go to Milan.

You're the widow of Count Pietranera.

It was my great honor to serve your husband's orders

under Eugene de Beauharnais.

Marshall! We've found General Conti and his daughter Clelia.

It's you, Fabio Conti.

- General Fabio Conti. - General,

you didn't show your passport to customs in Como.

How could I have done so? I was already far away.

I had no reason to stop.

I'm General to His Highness, the Prince of Parma.

As you see, we aren't in Parma.

In my opinion, you aren't a General, but a spy.

Where are my soldiers? Arrest him.

Leave my father alone.

- Arrest her, too. - Clelia Conti? Yes, it's you.

It took me some time to recognize you. It's me, Fabrice.

Have you forgotten me?

I recognize you, Fabrice.

What's going on here?

Marshall, I give you my word.

They are indeed General Conti and his daughter, Clelia.

Marshall, I don't advise you to arrest them.

Madam, with respect to the memory of Count Pietranera,

we will not pursue the matter. You are free to go.

I apologize.

How can I ever thank you?

Just remember my name, if ever I come through Parma.

Fabrice Del Dongo.

Clelia.

Fabrice.

That was a noble gesture, but unnecessary.

Didn't you teach me to do such things?

Good evening, Ecco.

- Count Mosca? - He took his seat, Countess,

an hour ago.

I've been paid to keep everyone out but you.

The Countess.

There you are.

Fabrice has returned, thanks to you.

I only gave him a passport.

The passport of a barometer seller.

And now

- where is he? - Here.

In Milan. I brought him with me.

In Grianta, his father would have turned him in.

I hope he's well hidden. There will be no clemency

for those who fought for Napoleon.

I'm aware of that.

He cannot stay here.

- He should go to London, or Paris. - No.

That's impossible. He would never agree to it.

Fabrice cannot live far from Italy.

I only see one solution.

He'll serve the Church. He'll be protected there.

Fabrice? A priest?

No. Well, not immediately.

For the time being, he'll appear to study theology,

in a place where he can be safe,

such as Naples.

- And then? - And then...

in my position,

it would be easy to have him return to Parma with the Archbishop,

the only person whom the Prince cannot challenge.

He wouldn't be far.

In Parma.

Yes, in Parma.

A certain Duke Sanseverina lives in Parma.

A 78-year-old widow who is immensely wealthy.

His only regret in life

is not being named ambassador to London, like his father.

As Minister, I could easily satisfy his ambitions.

Gina...

Marry him.

The day of the wedding, I'll send him to London.

You won't see him again. You'll be Duchess.

The castle will be yours alone.

It's the most beautiful in the principality, near Parma.

- And Fabrice? - Fabrice will be in the Church.

First vicar under the Archbishop, then bishop himself.

I'd be the happiest man alive.

You're asking me to do something immoral.

In Parma, that which displeases the Prince is immoral.

Everything else is a game, much like Whist.

Do you have moral objections to the game of Whist?

Gina,

if you don't accept, just say so.

I'd leave everything behind, everything, to follow you.

Your Excellency, the show will soon begin.

She's in a hurry to meet her lover.

An angelic face, but beware.

Are you lost?

- Don't be shy. - She's a pretty one.

You don't see such elegance around here.

Nothing will happen. Where's she even from?

I think I know her.

- She isn't as nice as I am. - You're my favorite.

A life in the clergy?

Waterloo ended your opportunities in every military in Europe.

It will protect you from death.

There are three generations of archbishops in the family.

A Valsera Del Dongo.

It is your duty to be a great, noble, generous lord.

And the love of a woman?

Must I give that up forever?

You don't have to be an exemplary priest.

A small, discreet, romantic affair will be forgiven.

It's hypocrisy, I know.

Times have changed. Honesty is no longer of this world.

And you?

Are you ready to marry an old duke to live with an old ass?

Count Mosca isn't old.

I'm no longer so young.

If your sincerity is true, you'll live in Parma for love.

Yes.

It's for love.

NAPLES - TWO MONTHS LATER

Allow me to introduce the Duke Sanseverina.

- My respects, madam. - Sir.

It is such a delight to meet you.

This castle will be yours, madam.

In the name of the Father, of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit,

I now pronounce you united

by the sacred bond of marriage until death do you part.

Today, you will start the path that will lead you to God.

You will go to him, he who calls you and waits for you.

Be confident.

Thank you.

Everything has gone as planned. Your husband will be in London.

Your nephew is safe in a Naples seminary.

- You're here, Duchess. - I never doubted your word.

Never doubt my love.

I thought I would die sad and alone in my brother's castle.

Today I am born again.

No.

You have simply found a life that is worthy of you.

Duchess.

Count?

Wait.

Stay here.

- Where are you going? - Keep away from the gallows.

They'll bring bad luck.

Be yourself.

The Prince will like you, perhaps too much.

Stop the coach here!

General?

- Count Mosca, you've returned. - Do you know the Duchess?

Duchess. We meet again.

Yes, in rather different circumstances.

What is happening?

An execution.

- What have they done? - They're Ferrant Palla's comrades.

- He's a revolutionary. - There hasn't been any trial.

A trial would be a waste of time.

Their sentence was signed by Minister Rassi.

Listen here!

Patriots! Long live Italy!

- Long live freedom! - Long live freedom!

Capture that man! That's Palla! Stop him!

Get out of the way!

Get out of the way! Watch out!

Get that scoundrel!

General

what's the purpose of a trial?

To avoid making them into heroes,

as your hanging has just done.

Go! Follow him!

- What a close-minded animal. - Indeed.

Is the Prince aware?

He approves of any form of repression.

I try to reason with him.

My enemies stir up his fears.

Who are your enemies?

You will meet them. Marquise Raversi

and Minister Rassi.

She's as vain as a peacock.

Look who's coming.

He's as subservient as a dog.

Duchess Sanseverina. I'm surprised to meet you.

You married so... suddenly.

We haven't had an opportunity to meet.

But I've heard much about you.

Your reputation has made its way to Milan.

As for Rassi, our Minister of Justice.

- Duchess. - His is even more famous.

They say you're quite tough.

The hanging we witnessed proved it.

Excuse us, we are to see the Prince.

Passion is a poor adviser. Our dear Count lost his manners.

I sense that it will cause him to lose much more than that.

Welcome to Parma, Count Mosca.

Thank you, Pernice. How is his mood today?

You can speak openly.

He wants to impress the Duchess from Milan.

Then we shouldn't keep him waiting.

Let's go in.

Your Highness, Count Mosca and Duchess Sanseverina

- ask to be received. - Show them in.

Your Highness.

I now see why you often leave Parma, my dear Mosca.

Duchess.

Our little principality must seem dull compared to Milan.

Yet the Duchess has chosen your Court.

It isn't surprising, Your Highness.

Your principality is an example for every court in Europe.

Your Highness, the Princess Clara Paolina

and His Highness the Prince Heritier Ranuccio Ernesto.

My wife and son are eager to meet you.

Madam, how beautiful you are.

Your courtesy, Your Highness, is only rivaled by your father's.

I've heard Your Highness is an expert in the garden.

Your flowers are among the most beautiful in Italy.

I also love flowers. I would be honored to have

any tips that Your Highness could provide.

It would be a pleasure.

That's nice. Let us be, now.

Please, Duchess, have a seat.

How is...

your brother?

I've heard he was named Second Grand Majordomo

by the Emperor of Austria.

A title worthy of his name.

Tell me, are the people of Milan happy?

- Is the Emperor adored? - Adored?

Yes, as much as he deserves to be.

How did you meet the Duke Sanseverina?

During a game of Whist.

Oh, hell.

When I played that game, I only won...

five ducats.

Duke Sanseverina is a lucky man.

Less than you.

He's in London, and you're here.

Remember you must die.

Remember you must die.

Remember you must die.

Dear Aunt,

I am reading a lot.

I'm not only studying theology.

I've found the spiritual momentum of my youth.

I'm preparing myself for the life I will later live.

In my exile in Naples,

I've learned to appear wise and patient.

It isn't easy, but I have been applying myself.

Is that the hypocrisy you spoke of?

I spend my time with the aristocracy and the people.

I often think of dear Father Blanes.

I shall forever be grateful

for the education you both have given me.

Good news from Naples?

The intensity with which you read that letter

tells me it's from your nephew.

Fabrice is following your advice.

He is studying and staying out of trouble.

He will become a respected archbishop.

And you,

you will be the Court's most beautiful star.

You didn't say what you thought of the Prince.

He isn't the ogre they say he is.

He becomes one when his ego is offended.

I'm on his good side. I don't make him red with shame

when he is beset by his silly fears.

At night,

he often calls for me. He screams in terror.

He believes revolutionaries are under his bed, so I go.

I look, but nothing is ever there.

But... I don't tease him.

Taming a tyrant... that's your entire policy.

I'm not sure, but I'd say you're a monster.

Perhaps.

But with you

I'm able

to forget it.

Count Zurla,

- what a pleasure to see you. - Madam.

I thought you had gone to your country home.

Indeed I had.

I don't want to miss your Thursday evening parties.

She isn't easy to convince.

Look at all those important figures who wait hours every week to attend

the reception at Sanseverina Palace.

I fear the palace may be competition for the Prince's.

He'll be furious.

I should let him know. He's the only one who isn't here.

Excuse me.

Countess, the Prince has arrived.

The Prince?

Did you know the Prince would come?

Your Highness.

What a privilege.

It's against protocol for me to leave

to be received in the home of a subject.

Nevertheless, it is my duty as sovereign.

All of Parma talks about your parties, madam.

I could not resist.

It's an honor for me, Your Excellency.

This home is yours.

Magnificent.

I had them brought in from Canton.

The wine is French, I imagine.

It's the only good thing found beyond the Alps.

You know,

I can no longer imagine Parma without your grace.

Without you,

I would feel alone.

Solitude is a ruler's privilege.

A privilege or a curse.

Your beauty is the only consolation.

If I were to accept the honors of Your Highness,

how should I behave with Count Mosca?

I would be as embarrassed as you,

but it could be easily overcome.

I could have him locked away forever in Farnese Tower.

The interest which Your Highness has shown in me

would certainly please the women of your Court.

If Your Highness would to give his attention

to the Princess,

your wife,

I would be pleased.

No one speaks to me like that, madam.

I shall be the first.

I know you had the palace guarded last night, but why?

To protect you.

The Prince could do anything when he feels disrespected.

What should I have done? Offer myself to the Prince?

How can you serve such a man?

I don't serve him. I use him.

I'm not like you. I don't know how to cheat.

That's why I love you.

Your Excellency.

Thank you.

The Prince spent the night with his wife.

- This morning, she cried of joy. - Thank you.

How incredible!

It's incredible. The Prince took your advice.

He spent the rest of the night with his wife

who apparently cried of joy this morning.

Despite my political skill,

I never could have achieved what you have with your sincerity.

In any case, if you had to flee, I would have gone with you.

Really?

- And abandon everything? - Without hesitating.

I would do anything for you.

Come in.

Madam, you have a visitor. A priest.

A priest?

Tell him I give to the Church.

He expressly asked to see you.

Hello, father.

I regretfully cannot receive you...

Fabrice.

If you're busy, I can come back another time.

Fabrice!

Fabrice.

Gina, are you pleased with me?

I've been waiting for you for days. I counted the hours.

You didn't answer me.

You've changed, like a diamond that has been polished.

I've also learned Latin and Greek.

I imagine you've hurt your eyes with those books.

No, it's been useful for archeology.

- Archeology? - Yes.

I sold my horses to fund digs in Miseno.

Do you know what I found?

- A jar full of gold coins? - No.

One of the most beautiful statues that has ever been found.

A bust of Tiberius.

Besides the busts of emperors,

how many ladies' busts have your hands been upon?

I've stopped counting.

I'm not a womanizer.

Every time I meet a lovely young girl,

she's the most desirable of all.

Only... I quickly lose interest.

I move on to the next one.

That isn't you. You can't be like that.

No... How can I explain?

I don't feel... emotion.

The intense passion one feels when one truly loves.

No.

I'm beginning to think that I'm incapable of love.

You will see.

One day, you will love.

The woman for whom you are looking

may be closer than you imagine.

Is the future archbishop of Parma among us?

Allow me, Your Excellency, to express my deepest gratitude.

I know that I'm indebted to you.

No need for "Your Excellency", dear Fabrice.

The Duchess's affections make you a friend,

although we're meeting for the first time.

I learned that you've passed all of your exams.

In the seminary I heard a generous donation was received.

Those who educate men like you deserve our gratitude.

The letter you wrote was a model of finesse and diplomacy.

I dream of being capable of that.

Enough of that talk.

- Go change your clothes. - Why?

The Prince is to receive you.

Count Mosca was able to obtain a hearing for you.

He will ensure that your imprudence be forgotten.

It's my pleasure, but the Prince doesn't like to wait.

I'll try to prove myself worthy of the trust you have shown me.

You will be.

When you're before the Prince,

be respectful and submissive.

Isn't he wonderful?

I knew you would like him.

He's perfect.

You didn't tell me he was so handsome.

He always has been.

Even as a child.

He's a handsome, young man.

He's still very young.

Will it harm his chances to become the Archbishop's vicar?

No, to the contrary.

What is it? You seem upset.

With you, I forget my age. Fabrice reminds me of it.

One forgets about growing old. One is always as old as the heart.

But then a young man appears.

One sees that most precious is lost.

Indeed.

Fifty is a cruel age

when one is hopelessly in love.

I had Fabrice Del Dongo's luggage inspected at the last staging inn.

And?

Books by Voltaire, Rousseau...

It confirms that the young man has not disavowed

his subversive ideas, no more than his aunt has.

Shut up, you.

I will therefore appear to be a Jacobin.

You'll see how I'll make her drop her mask.

Sir.

Your Serene Highness.

How is Naples?

Are the people happy? Is the King beloved?

The high society loves and respects the King.

As for the lower class,

I do not know, as I do not frequent them.

They are only allowed to discuss the work for which I pay them.

Such a nice answer you've prepared to please me.

I've studied and reflected upon those questions, Your Highness.

It is now my opinion that one's ruler

merits blind and absolute obedience.

I believe that a prince's power should have its limits.

Respect for justice, for example.

The well-being of as many as possible.

But you won't find any word of that

in the paper I published.

A paper that you don't read, of course.

I ask for your forgiveness, Your Highness.

But I do read it.

I read it, and I agree with it.

Those words of justice and freedom

are merely idiocy spread by Jacobins.

You speak well, sir.

Too well.

My respects to your aunt.

A hawk has been tamed by Sanseverina.

Tamed, indeed.

But intelligent.

I don't like him.

The Prince didn't like you,

but I'm sure that the Archbishop will.

You're a Del Dongo.

Gina...

I followed Napoleon in his conquest for freedom.

And this is where I am today,

pretending to be a man of the Church

in a state that believes it is Versailles.

How can you live that way?

Under a power that is as despotic as it is fickle.

One is always under the power of someone or something.

Be it a Prince, or our passions.

I'm happy that you're here.

It's a great honor to receive you, Duchess.

Allow me to introduce my nephew, Fabrice Del Dongo.

He has come from the seminary in Naples.

Your name happens to be very dear to me.

Your ancestor, Ascanio Del Dongo,

was a man of great piety.

Who is this?

Hurry.

- This is Ferrante Palla. - Get me out of town.

Luigi, go!

A poet, a lover of freedom, a patriot.

And a doctor. The Duchess is my guardian angel.

She saved me from the gallows twice.

Thanks to her, I can feed my children.

Stop here.

I've arrived.

Long live freedom, death to tyranny!

Be careful.

I admit I was afraid.

It's true.

I feared you had changed

and had forgotten our ideals.

I see I was wrong.

You're still the Gina I love.

What else can you tell me?

Clearly only that Duchess interests you now.

Well...

She spent a fortune to decorate her palace.

What else do you wish to know about that tease?

Ever since her nephew returned, she's spent her time with him.

They probably discuss theology.

That would surprise me.

In my opinion, the things they do are not so innocent.

Do you mean...

they are lovers?

That would certainly explain some things.

What?

Tell me.

Dear Count...

Listen here.

My admiration for you

has forced me to inform you

that Duchess Sanseverina, whom you love,

has behaved in a dishonorable manner.

She is betraying you with her own nephew,

not to mention the addition

of incest

to the debauchery.

Furthermore,

the young man is 23 years old.

A passionate woman

could only appreciate the charm and freshness

of youth.

And sign it, "A friend".

Mosca must receive it before 7.

- In absolute secrecy. - Of course, Your Highness.

- Are you Count Mosca? - Yes, I am.

Here.

Leave it, I'll do it.

Wash my hair, Luigi.

With pleasure.

Is that you, Gina?

Such baths must be missed in the seminary.

I had this basin brought in from Paris.

That doesn't surprise me.

Every object here reflects your taste.

I chose each one to console myself.

Why did you need to console yourself?

Put your head down.

Nostalgia for the past.

Broken dreams.

Nostalgia for past loves.

I saw your birth.

Cecchina.

Bring me some water. I'm going to take a bath.

Leave. You didn't see my birth.

Your Excellency.

My dear Mosca, come.

Make yourself comfortable.

I didn't call you in to work,

but to chat, between friends.

I have a terrible headache.

It's probably due to this stifling heat.

You also seem exhausted.

It doesn't deserve your attention, Your Excellency.

Let me guess.

Melancholy for passing time.

Oh, my dear Count.

I know how it is.

Just like you,

I am growing older. And you...

you're lucky enough to have a charming woman by your side.

The pleasures of power are nothing

compared to the happiness experienced

with tenderness

and sincere love.

Allow me to go, Your Excellency.

Are you ill?

Dizzy.

Most likely caused by the heat.

My respects.

We've arrived, Your Excellency.

Thank you.

Welcome, I'll tell the Duchess.

Tell me... Can I trust you?

- Of course, Your Excellency. - Here, this is for you.

- For me? - Yes.

Answer me.

Do the Countess and Fabrice make love?

Answer me.

Do they make love?

No.

Not yet.

Were you expecting him?

- What did you want? - Nothing.

I'll tell you tomorrow.

- What was wrong? - I don't know.

Give me the other earring.

The Count gave me a terrible look.

I have the feeling that if he had had a knife,

he would have stabbed me in the heart.

If he had,

he knows that he would lose me forever.

Cecchina!

Cecchina!

Cecchina!

Duchess...

I was worried. What are you doing here?

The Count gave this to me. I didn't understand.

Why?

What did he ask?

He wanted to know if the Duchess and Fabrice make love.

And you? What did you reply?

No.

Not yet.

I forgive you.

Under one condition,

don't tell anyone what has happened.

I would do anything for you.

Ladies and gentlemen!

I present to you the greatest show in the world.

Come one, come all! Tonight at this lovely square.

The show which caused a sensation in the Courts of France, Tarragona,

and Pamplona,

inspiring incredible emotion

in noblemen and commoners alike.

Ladies and gentlemen,

don't resist this temptation!

Come one, come all, any evening this week!

I will be there to welcome you.

Will you come see the show?

- Tell me, what's your name? - Marietta.

Mine is Fabrice.

Get to work, Marietta, go.

Love, blood, and jealousy!

Where both small and great men come together! All are invited!

Come one, come all!

Luigi!

Luigi!

Prepare the carriage.

Did you want to kill him?

First him, then myself.

I was devoured by jealousy.

It was hell.

What madness!

How could you? Fabrice admires and respects you.

He wishes he could have had a father like you.

A father?

Whatever was said about me,

never doubt my loyalty.

I believe you.

Let us not be manipulated. The Prince has set traps for us.

Do you know that he plans to make me Prime Minister?

Madam.

That's wonderful.

Wonderful and dangerous. More power means more enemies.

Gina, we must remain united.

We will be.

You, I, and Fabrice

against them all.

Your nephew is the vicar I was expecting.

I followed in the steps of a Del Dongo,

and if God is willing, a Del Dongo shall follow after me.

For what occasion has Count Mosca arranged such a splendid party?

To celebrate becoming Prime Minister.

The Prince should have named me Prime Minister.

How did Mosca do it?

He had the Princess's backing, as she adores the Duchess.

There's also Marquis Crescenzi, who lends money to the Prince,

without counting General Conti's support.

Unbelievable!

I should remind Conti that I made him General.

Mosca has been cleverer than you.

He helped the General's daughter enter high society.

General Conti and his daughter.

- Welcome, General. - Count Mosca.

Let me introduce my daughter, Clelia.

Miss... My respects.

- Enjoy yourselves. - Your Excellency.

The first time I saw her, she had charm.

Today she is charm personified.

To whom has her father sold her?

Clelia has personality. She's refused many proposals.

Her father will stop her from refusing the last.

Clelia!

Marquis Crescenzi.

- Marquis Crescenzi. - A small man,

but the wealthiest in Parma.

Pleased to meet you.

You are more beautiful than what they say, Miss Conti.

You are more of a gentleman than I thought, Marquis.

Clelia.

May I enjoy a dance with you?

Of course, Fabrice.

You remember my name.

The other day, you asked me not to forget it.

Is it true that you will marry Marquis Crescenzi?

That's what my father wishes.

Or another. What's the difference?

If you don't love him,

it makes a difference.

And you?

Why did you enter the Naples seminary?

Was it your calling?

You know a lot about me.

I've simply listened to what others have said.

I wanted to know what had become of you.

What do they say?

You will soon be vicar under the Archbishop of Parma.

That isn't yet the case.

Now that I've found you again,

I hope that we'll see each other often.

Why do you wish to see me again?

You already belong to another.

To another?

To whom?

The Duchess, your aunt.

That's the first thing I learned.

Everyone is talking.

Dear Count, I must speak to you.

I believe it would be best if I no longer lived with my aunt.

I should even leave Parma.

Are you sure, my dear Fabrice?

Yes.

It's best for me,

for the Duchess,

and for you, Count.

I'll have him castrated. It will calm him.

I don't recommend it.

He's young and a bit nervous. He has personality.

He's splendid. He'll soon be a fine horse.

I'll give him to you. You're alike.

If I had a son,

I would want him to be like you.

You were ready to die as a hero,

Waterloo broke your ideal,

but it didn't destroy you.

Like me,

you abandoned your dreams of glory,

yet still have a taste for life.

That's the best virtue a man can have.

That's my villa.

What you see ahead is a digging site.

We've restored the vestiges of a Roman villa.

Archeology has become my passion.

May I?

These are the vestiges of a great empire.

For those who dreamed of Napoleon's empire,

they are our comfort.

This is the first time

a prestigious man has spoken frankly with me.

Sincerity in these times is rarer than an object such as this one.

My villa is yours.

- Bruno is at your service. - My respects, sir.

- Here, Bruno. - I'll put it away.

Tell me,

shall I explain the situation to your aunt?

No, I'll do it myself.

I owe it to her.

"The villa"

"is truly paradise to me,"

"as I am passionate about archeology."

Duchess, Count Mosca is here.

Tell him I'm ill.

Where's the letter?

On the desk.

He treats me as if I were one of his mistresses.

Why make the Count suffer, Duchess?

He's come for three days and has stood outside.

He abandoned me.

As an excuse, he talks to me about archeology.

Call Luigi.

He shall prepare the carriage.

Get my clothing.

You have a visitor, sir.

I read your letter.

Let's step aside.

It consoles me

to see that you are interested in things older than I am.

Don't speak that way.

All I wanted was to behave appropriately.

Appropriately?

Why?

What is wrong in being with me?

I tried to forget you, but I can't.

I need to see you and to touch you.

We can't.

We can't.

You know it's true.

- You are... - What?

Who am I?

Your aunt?

Imagine...

Imagine I weren't.

I can't.

You love me, Fabrice. You've always loved me.

You always have.

Oh, Fabrice.

No.

No.

No, I can't.

Thank you, ladies and gentlemen, thank you.

And now, the grand finale!

What a finale it is!

Thank you, ladies and gentlemen.

You're very talented.

How nice of you.

The audience must give you compliments.

Sometimes, yes, but never for my talent.

What do you mean?

You could dance in the theaters of Parma or Milan.

- Are you making fun of me? - No, I truly believe it.

- You have the legs of a ballerina. - That's nice of you.

But my breasts are too large.

Leave with me.

- Where would we go? - Very far.

I would very much like to,

but need the permission of the gossip who runs the troop.

One more ecu is necessary, if you want things to go well.

Be careful about Giletti.

He believes Marietta belongs to him.

Take her far away from here. I advise you to leave quickly.

"My dear Fabrice,

"I hesitated for a long time before writing you this letter.

"When Napoleon freed Milan from the Austrians,"

"my brother fled to Grianta, leaving your mother on her own"

"to defend the palace."

"To give herself courage, the poor woman"

"took me from the convent where I was staying."

"I was 13.

"Napoleon's officers were housed by the aristocracy.

"One of the officers had made shoes from the felt of a hat."

"They were held together by string"

"to appear presentable, he later told me."

"His name was..."

"Robert."

"And if I weren't your aunt?"

You're leaving me?

No, I'm going to hunt a few birds.

- The weather's splendid. - Don't you like me?

With all my heart, Marietta.

I just need to go outside.

Don't you see? We can't stay in bed all day.

With you, I could.

Sir! Come see.

Show me.

Where did you find that?

I put a stake where it was found.

You should continue...

I came to get Marietta.

- She's free to go where she wants. - She goes where I say.

Didn't you hear me?

I've come to get Marietta.

Marietta is yours.

He's going to kill you! Take this knife!

You're going to pay.

Take this.

- Sir, are you hurt? - Take care of him.

He's dead.

You should leave. They'll arrest you.

Why? I only defended myself.

You killed a man.

Giletti was a police informant.

If the police find you, they won't let you go.

Count Mosca is Prime Minister. He'll let me explain.

First get yourself to safety. I'll notify Count Mosca.

This is Giletti's passport.

Head straight north.

- Take this money. - No, I don't want it.

Take what he gives you.

You saved my life, Marietta.

Hurry, they'll soon be here.

May fortune be with you.

So much drama for a street dancer.

Things like that

should be left to others. They shouldn't be done.

What an idiot.

And with a man like Giletti,

he should have been bought, not killed.

Elegance is a lost quality, Your Highness.

Where is he hiding?

I must look into it. Perhaps with a friend in Parma.

Or perhaps he's fled beyond the Po. It would certainly be better.

One intriguing man less in the Court.

Rassi! You know nothing about women.

Which woman, Your Highness?

The only one worthy of the title

in Parma.

The Duchess.

You know how close she is to her nephew.

He who controls him,

controls her as well.

It took me some time, but now...

I have her.

I'll immediately open proceedings against Fabrice Del Dongo

for murder.

Bring him to me.

Alive.

To get him back, the Duchess will do anything I want.

If he had stayed with me, nothing would have happened.

Now he's hurt, alone, hunted like an animal...

for treason there, for murder here.

Now they're going to find him. They'll find him and kill him.

Calm down. I've put all of my officers

- on alert. - It's too late.

It's too late.

What has happened is your fault.

- Your fault! Your fault! Yours! - Calm yourself!

Gina...

- I'll never see him again. - You will, you will.

I'll bring him back to you. I promise you.

I promise.

Do you hear me?

What is it, Clelia?

Nothing.

Just a feeling.