All language subtitles for This Was a Woman (1948)

Good morning, Mrs. Holmes.

Good morning, Mrs. Russell.

Arthur, dear, breakfast.

Coming, darling.

Well, I could have done

but Ace would keep barking so.

Oh, he's only trying

Yes. Yes.

Fenella!

Fenella.

The blood vessels and glands

are supplied from the

Wrong, Terry.

From the connector cells in

Of course, yes.

Breakfast, children.

Coming, mother.

It's a big day.

Lecture and exam.

Yes, I know, dear.

But don't get so agitated.

Connector cells, stupid.

I know.

Well, it didn't sound

Ace, come on, boy.

Now, I've had a

I hear you've been

Mustn't do that, you know.

Sylvia doesn't like it.

Do come along, children.

You really should

You'd make a good teacher.

Terry's only worried this

Oh?

- Here's your tea, darling.

Sausage or kipper, Fenella?

Coffee, please, daddy,

You ought to have more

A growing girl like you

- What about you, father?

But only recently, Arthur.

Ooh.

Don't forget I'm coming

What time does the 8:33 leave?

Curiously enough, 8:33.

- Isn't ever late?

But chances are it'll

I expect the engine driver

I'm sure he knows more

You'll get through

I've willed you to.

Whenever mother rubs Marmaduke,

What are you wishing

If I told you, it wouldn’t come true,

I don't believe in

No.

You're much too

I say, hurry up, Terry.

- We shall be late.

I'll be with you.

Yes, daddy.

Anything you want

No, dear, I don't think so.

Oh, yes.

The library book.

Oh, yes.

I'll collect it lunchtime.

- Your flower holder, daddy.

Bye, mother.

I hope Marmaduke

I'll be with you, Terry.

- And you're going to pass.

Fen, this is your day at

Uh, yes, is it, Terry.

Oh, good. Then you'll be

Well, I did have one or

That's all right.

I'll wait for you.

Goodbye. Good luck.

Hello, Ace.

How was the sausage?

Daddy adores that

Yes.

His dog and his roses, that

Still, they're harmless

- Excuse me, sir.

I hope you won't think

but well, that was

Thank you.

I trust the patient

Oh, I'm sure he will.

But you know, sir, although

I sometimes wonder

able to do anything like that.

Of course you will.

It's only a matter of experience.

- But you can't hurry these things.

But, uh, the next

- Your final?

Oh, I shouldn't worry

I think perhaps you

Thank you, sir.

Hello, Terry.

Oh, not bad, Sally.

I, uh, I think perhaps the

about his job now.

Well, now you've nearly

do you think you'll have

Well, for instance?

Oh, the theater,

Oh.

There's a wonderful film

I'm sorry, Sally.

I have to meet Fenella

Hello, Sally.

- How's he treating you?

Ah.

Look, Casanova, I have a

She will not be going home

- No?

Huh.

Well, uh, what time will

Oh, uh, just after

I'll be driving her home.

Well, uh, cheerio.

Bye bye, Sal.

Well, that takes care of Fenella.

Look, Sally.

I'm terribly sorry, but I don't

or music or anything.

I-- I've got too much on my mind.

You, uh, you do

No.

Quite good.

Very good.

Oh, thank you.

Professor.

Plenty of practice.

And don't waste too much time.

Thank you, Monsieur Lefou.

Plenty of practice, Miss Russell.

Like that.

Would you like to

Please, not now.

- Let's go.

Uh-huh.

- What would you like to see?

- What would you like to see?

Good.

- Hello, Mr. White. Come on in.

The garden's looking

- Not too bad, is it?

Little work, little water,

Oh yeah?

Well, you seem to be having luck

I use an arsenic solution.

Mind you, you've got to

- Ah, it's a lot of work.

Of course, these are

for use in the house.

Come over here.

I'll show you

Now, this is something

There you are.

My Princess Elizabeths.

- Aren't they wonderful?

- Mind if I take one home to the wife?

Help yourself in the garden.

I see.

You mark my words,

I'm awfully sorry, old chap,

One never cuts prize roses.

I understand.

How are you, my dear?

- You're very late, aren't you?

Mason and I have been

- Did you remember my book?

Arthur, whatever

Oh, sorry.

No, dear.

West?

You wanted West's new book.

Oh, Rebecca West,

Are you sure?

- I-- I seem to remember--

Poor dear, with his memory.

Huh.

Oh, never mind, Arthur.

We all make mistakes.

Well, I-- I wrote

I could've sworn this

It doesn't matter.

I've got plenty to do in

It's a disappointment,

I can take it back tomorrow.

I shouldn't dream

Well, did you have a nice day?

Oh, rather trying.

Well, I'm sorry to hear that.

Oh, nothing to interest you.

It was just the petty

inseparable from housekeeping.

Trying to cover up other people's

mistakes, having to do

You ought to get out more.

Take Ace for a

He's a good one to take

Hmm.

Well now, how about a

What?

On a hot day like this?

I can never understand

drinking the dreadful stuff.

Yes, it is rather warm.

- Hello, darling.

Hello, Terry.

Well, tell us the news.

Oh, um, Barclay,

thinks perhaps I'll

Fine. Fine.

When you know definitely?

A month or two.

Doctor Terence Russell.

Steady, dad. Steady.

Where's Fenella?

Oh, uh, she had

What?

What doctor?

Her doctor.

What's wrong with her?

Nothing, dad.

She, uh, she's just

What are you talking about?

Dr. Valentine

He's a biochemist

We call him the

Do you mean to say that Fenella--

I mean that she's gone to

Why get excited about that?

But she never said

Well, up to now, I don't think

Now, just a minute, Terry.

What sort of a man

A splendid fellow, dad.

He's helped me a lot.

You introduced him to Fenella?

Why, yes.

Yes, I think I did.

How far has it gone?

Oh, I-- just to a cinema.

Somewhere in Leicester

It's so unlike Fenella.

I shouldn't worry, mother.

After all, I used to

Oh, that everlasting noise.

It's only Ace asking

I promised him I'd--

perhaps I'd better take him.

Oh, excuse me, madam.

- What about?

I've taken the liberty of

I hope you'll see her.

So you're really

Well, if I'd only myself to

But it's my husband.

You see, ma'am, he's worked

But just because he's

there's no reason for you to leave

He couldn't manage by himself,

I shall miss being

I've told Effie as much.

That was really kind.

Oh, well.

Very well, Mrs. Holmes.

I'll try to find time to see her.

Thank you.

- Good evening, Mrs. Holmes.

- Hello, mommy.

Mommy, I want you to meet

- Dr. Christie.

Good evening, Mrs. Russell.

Fenella said it was

- I hope you don't mind.

Children's friends are

Val is at the hospital.

Terry introduced us.

Yes, I know, dear.

Terry told me all about him.

- Oh, did he?

Do come and sit

I want to hear all

- How was it?

Terrible.

Seems to be a slight

You both saw the

- Oh, yes.

We were together.

Why didn't you like it, doctor?

Oh, I, uh, couldn't sort of, uh,

I see.

Then what did you find so

Oh, it was, uh,

- and the music was good.

Hmm.

Your tastes obviously vary.

What was the story about?

- Well, uh--

Yes, the, uh, the usual subject.

But the way it worked

- Wasn't it, Fen?

- It was a bit gibberish.

You seem to have had

Ah.

Well, would you like to stay

Val, if I may call you Val?

That's very kind of

- I'd be delighted.

Well, I'll just have a few

Darling.

Fancy thinking I

and know what the film was about.

Hmm.

- Val.

I wish--

What?

Oh, does it sound callous?

I wish, just this evening,

together somehow, somewhere.

Oh.

Mother's wonderful, but--

But what?

She watches.

Even when you're not looking,

you can feel her eyes

was x-raying your mind.

Did you feel that?

Well, she did make

Oh, darling, of what?

I don't know.

All those questions.

I think she just lives

Do you think she'll be hurt

What difference can it make?

You can't share love

Darling, I don't expect you

I know.

Oh, Val, I don't care.

I know I'm selfish, but I don't

but you, at this moment.

Mommy, Val's asked

That's why the

We didn't care.

I've never been so

And you?

Wonderfully happy.

Wait here, Effie.

Yes, Ma.

Come in.

My Effie's here, mum,

Tell her to come in.

Come in, dear.

Don't be shy.

This is my girl, mum.

Be a load off my mind

Well, Effie, your mother thinks

Do you?

Oh, yes, madam.

Come over here by the window.

Take off your hat and coat.

Let me have a look at you.

You're very young.

Yes, ma'am.

Soon 18, madam.

Hmm.

Raw material.

- You're strong, aren't you?

Well, that's good.

A house like this needs

- You sure you're up to it?

Oh, your mother's had

in service, Effie.

- You haven't had any, have you?

No experience of any

Not really, madam.

You do tell the truth, don't you?

Oh, yes, madam.

Very well.

I'll give you a trial.

Thank you, madam.

You, uh, have got a

Ma says she'll teach me.

I shall teach you.

Thank you, madam.

Tell your mother you

Thank you, Madam.

You're forgetting your hat.

Oh.

Goodbye, madam.

Effie, get a vase and put

Yes, ma'am.

- Aren't they lovely?

You look very nice

Thank you, ma'am.

And thank you for the dress.Good.

Arthur, dear.

You know I don't like

Oh, I'm sorry, darling.

It was my fault. I thought it

Is Terry home yet?

No, but he'll be here presently.

- He telephone?

He's driving him down.

Oh, did he say if

No, but he feels quite

Of course he will.

How about you and me

All right, Arthur.

You're very gay, aren't you?

Well, after all, it isn't everyday

Oh.

What on earth's

My Princess Elizabeths.

Well, have I made

Did you have to cut those?

Well, I-- I thought they'd

Uh.

I'm sorry.

- Whiskey, dear?

- Good evening, sir.

Good evening, Mr. Terry.

I beg your pardon?

Have I said something wrong, sir?

You are addressing

Oh, I beg your pardon, Doctor.

Terry, that's wonderful news.

I'm so glad.

Congratulations, Terry.

I never had the

You and Marmaduke did

Thank you both.

- Where's dad?

Oh.

- How are you, Val?

Darling.

Well, dad.

We made it.

Congratulations, son.

Thank you, father.

Is something the matter?

No, I'm just a bit

Dinner is served, madam.

Thank you, Effie.

Well, come along. Dinner.

Evening, Mr. Russell.

Here's to our honored

Terry.

The first Russell ever to

That's logical.

He's the first Russell

The thing I love about

What are your

I'm staying on at the

I couldn't wish

I hear you've been

Yes, he's been made assistant

50 pounds a year more.

That ought to be useful.

Yes, perhaps I can save enough

chemist shop in my old age.

With a cosy flat above.

Hmm.

Which reminds me.

Would you mind terribly

married as soon as possible?

Well, as soon as we can find

Or nice prefab with

But you've been engaged

Long enough these days, isn't it?

Short engagement, they say,

The only drawback

I wonder how many delayed

is responsible for.

Quite a number, I should think.

Well, it didn't delay this one.

There's plenty of

if you and Fenella don't

Oh, daddy, that'd be wonderful.

- Wouldn't it, Val?

Yes, it would.

But I don't think--

Why not?

I think it's an excellent idea

join our happy family, Arthur.

Well, that's extremely

Oh, mommy.

That's sweet of you.

It's only your happiness

Too late for you to

You're hooked good and proper.

Well, I'll have coffee

Off you go, all of you.

- Jolly good dinner, mother.

Good, dear.

Oh, by the way, Sylvia,

Cable from Austin Penrose.

He's coming over

Austin Penrose.

Have I met him?

No, I think he'd already gone

We started together

He's a bright chap,

He's been in charge

for a number of years.

- And how did he get that?

Austin's the type

Evidently.

Did you say you

Yes, 30 shillings a week.

- He must have qualities.

Aren't you just a

- Jealous of Austin?

Why should I be?

Oh, I don't know.

I just thought, he seems to

Well, I haven't done

Considering what?

We can't all be Austin Penroses.

I've no doubt that

my present position seemed

After all, we're quite

Oh, my dear, I wasn't

I was only wondering about you.

I know if I'd been a man,

Carries a lot of anxieties

Poor Arthur.

You're not exactly a swashbuckler,

No, I suppose I'm not.

Oh, dear.

It was naughty of you

He's certainly making

- Effie?

We'll have the

Very good, ma'am.

Have you finished reading

Not quite, ma'am.

There's no need to hurry.

What do you think of it?

There's an awful lot of

You ought to like

To read about, ma'am.

I've found another one.

I think you may like it.

It's a little bit more difficult,

but then that's how

Thank you, ma'am.

Translated from the French.

Yes.

French are very civilized people.

Thank you, ma'am.

- Good morning.

I'm Mrs. Russell.

- Is the vet in?

- Will you come in?

- Good morning, madam.

And what's the matter

I want him put to sleep.

Oh?

Wouldn't you like me to

No.

- Made up your mind, eh?

I see.

I only ask because I've

acted on impulse.

I'm not impulsive.

Ah.

- How much?

It's essential to get rid

I see.

- Good morning.

You're a nice little

Ace!

Come on, old boy, where are you?

Come on, old boy.

Ace?

Terry, Fenella, where's the dog?

- Isn't he in the house?

- Have you seen him, Terry?

He's probably snoring in

No.

What about mother?

She went out just before lunch.

Come to think of it, I haven't

- You don't think he's slipped out?

Let's find mother.

Mother?

Oh, mother.

What a curious greeting.

Have you seen him

Yes.

Oh, thank heaven.

I was so afraid he might

Where is he?

I had him put to sleep.

- You what?

You know I hate hysteria.

He-- he had an accident.

No.

He seemed all right this morning.

How could he have sickened

He didn't.

Then?

I had him destroyed.

You had him destroyed!

- Why? Why, Sylvia?

- All dogs bark.

- No, my dear.

Terry, Fenella, Ace didn't

No.

It's got nothing to

You don't know what

You don't know what

It's more than I can

It was not only the noise.

It's the restlessness, the food,

shut the door, the

In and out.

Shut up, mother.

Shut up.

- I say.

Fenella and I ought have

save on the flowers.

Double event?

What do you mean, Terry?

Well, if I could have pinned

female in time.

Who are you thinking of?

Of females in the abstract.

You're not seriously thinking--

--about getting married?

Oh, good heavens, no.

Well, you might meet some girl.

I have, hundreds and hundreds.

Grade A and substandard,

good, bad, and

- No, I mean this seriously.

But just because Fenella

you needn't be scared

I'm not thinking of myself, dear.

It's your happiness I want.

Yes, you're ambitious, Terry.

All your life's ahead of you.

Ah, yes.

I should miss you, bitterly,

with any girl you wanted.

Only you're clever, Terry.

And you've got a future.

He travels the fastest

I wouldn't say that, Terry.

- What about your mother and me?

He's brilliant and--

Beautiful!

You look lovely, my dear.

Exquisite.

- You do all like it?

- Do you really think so?

It's to be hoped he'll recover

That'll be Val.

- Well, he can't come in here.

He's dropped in to

on how to behave as best man.

- He mustn't see me.

We'll head him up.

You look so sweet.

Thank you, daddy.

Sit down, darling.

You look so young,

- I'm nearly 20.

Years.

Years are nothing.

You're so ignorant, so untouched.

You make me afraid

Afraid.

Mummy.

What do you mean?

Perhaps we shouldn't

About what?

Why must I feel like this?

Why must my children be so

I feel everything that

though it were my own tragedy.

Tragedy?

Oh, I don't understand.

You will.

But I'm happy.

I've never been so

I'm glad to hear you say that.

Remember, always remember,

you felt like that.

Tonight?

But after tomorrow

more secure, more complete.

More complete?

My poor child.

Why poor?

Fenella, aren't you afraid?

Of what?

Of marriage.

No. Of course not.

- We love each other.

- I can't see any difference.

Aren't there moments when

I don't know what

- but I don't want to hear.

Don't you want to learn anything?

Do you want to plunge

with a child's ignorance?

Mummy, please let me go.

Well, I'm off.

- Good night, Val.

See you tomorrow, I hope.

Val, I--

There's no need tell me, Terry.

I'm a lucky devil.

Hope you'll both be very happy.

Amen.

If you didn't want me to get married,

Oh, my dear.

It isn't that.

It's just that I've always

Until a few weeks ago,

But Fenella, I've

I've watched his eyes when

Don't you understand?

No.

Oh, my poor child.

Fenella, you've haven't let

I don't want to hear any more.

I wouldn't have said a word.

I only wanted to spare you.

Please, mommy.

Please.

Val.

Fenella, darling.

Don't look at me.

- Go away.

I've seen you, and you're the

But--

- Something's happened to you.

I can't explain.

It's the look in your eyes.

Something odd about

though you were out of reach.

Oh, darling, you're enough

Fenella?

Let me go.

Let me go.

Supposed to be so unlucky,

But then, I'm not superstitious.

Are you?

I believe only in good luck.

Good night.

Good night, Valentine.

Hold it.

Thank you.

It'll be a happy day for me

Me too.

Tell me, Ma.

If I'd waited for your

you would still be

Oh.

- Morning, Mr. Parson.

- Good morning, Mr. Russell.

- Good morning, Mr. Russell.

Good morning, Miss Johnson.

Good morning, Mr. Russell.

That's the first train

- Well, has Mr. Penrose arrived?

The directors met

It was quite a commotion.

Oh, was there?

Well, did he ask for me?

No.

Strange.

Does he know you well?

My dear Miss Johnson, Mr. Penrose

Then why not go up to

Yes.

I think I will.

Yes, that's a good

Oh, and don't bother me

I want your ideas

--except the accommodation

with our South

Believe me, gentlemen

is far more essential

I quite agree with you, Penrose.

Arthur!

My dear fellow, how are you?

Hello, Austin.

Well, why, you

Come in.

Excuse me, gentlemen.

This is Arthur Russell,

How do you do?

Both joined the old firm

Yes, 30 years ago.

A couple of the best little stamp

Well, I expect you two have

after all these years.

We'll go along to the bank.

Nice to see you, Mr. Russell.

Thank you, sir.

Goodbye.

Goodbye, sir.

Goodbye.

Goodbye.

Come and sit down, Arthur,

Well, there's nothing much to tell.

I'm still looking

I know all about that.

That magnificent

heard so much about,

They're very well.

My girl was married recently.

- My boy, Terry, is a doctor.

You know, sometimes

Ha ha.

Can't imagine why.

I'm just a stay at

That's just it, old man.

Stay at home.

You know, I envy you

I'm not sure you aren't

Yes, we're a happy family.

Sylvia manages

I'll bet she does.

I'm afraid I've been so busy

Consequence says I'm

Well, you needn't be

We'd like you to

And I'd like to come.

In fact, I want to come.

Go on. Play, my dear.

Not now, daddy.

You look pale.

Mommy said I was off color.

Your mother has sharp eyes.

Yes, very sharp.

We shall have your husband worrying

Val hasn't said anything, has he?

Bless you, no.

What you need is a

I shall have to talk

After all, you haven't been

I always thought you

Don't let's go into that again.

What a funny girl you are.

Most brides are only too eager

Was mother?

Was she eager to

Well, it's not the

have mentioned to

no doubt to her own friends.

I wonder.

My dear, you're trembling.

Oh, why does everybody

I can't have a shadow

without somebody criticising.

Oh, I'm sorry, daddy.

I know the real trouble.

You're restless.

Once you get settled

everything will be all right.

You don't mind us living here?

Nothing could please me more.

As for your mother, it's

Instead of losing a daughter,

Fenella, look at me, dear.

You are happy?

Of course.

Perfectly well and very happy.

- Hello, Arthur.

- Who's that hammering on the piano?

Oh.

- Is that a new dress?

Looks lovely, darling.

- Mr. Penrose is coming?

Well, after all, it's not a

like that to come and dine.

Oh, Austin would never

I managed to get along

I was in luck.

New case of Don Pedro

There.

Now, what on earth

Well, you mentioned at breakfast.

There we are. Don Pedro.

Quite, but it doesn't

It was their brandy I wanted.

- I'm sure you said sherry.

I don't want you to think--

Now, don't let's flog the subject.

Let's leave it at that.

Oh, dear.

There's the creme de menthe.

Creme de menthe,

Never mind.

Take it into the kitchen.

There's a dear.

I suppose it'll do for the trifle.

Well, what's wrong, dear?

Nothing.

Why are you playing like that?

Why shouldn't I?

Oh, no-- no reason.

Val's very late, isn't he?

A little.

Did he phone?

No.

He's probably busy

You do trust him, don't you?

- Of course.

Oh, nothing.

Only men are so odd.

After all, we don't know

I mean, what his life was

Now what was Terry's

The brutish gentleman.

It's a lovely expression.

I think it's horrible.

- You're such a sensitive child.

Why, darling?

You're like someone

along an exposed nerve.

I see you're wearing your bow.

Yes, ma'am.

I don't think I like the

It covers your hair too much.

Come here.

Too far forward.

Hair's very soft, isn't it?

A man would like

You're very pretty, aren't you?

Anybody else in the house

Mrs. Christie said I looked

No, I don't mean her.

I mean any of the men.

Master says I'm cheeky.

And Dr. Christie

That hurts, doesn't

not knowing you're alive?

He makes me feel like a worm.

Why should you care

Have I said anything, madam?

Oh, quite enough.

Run along.

Yes, madam.

And tell her it was nice of her

Thank you, ma'am.

Hi, Ma.

Well, you do look a sight.

Sight, Ma?

Yes, in your la dee da getup.

You look like a woman.

- I am.

Yes.

Well, she never dolled

No?

She do your hair, too?

Like it?

They'll be after you, all right.

I know.

I know.

Now, look here, my girl.

It's all very well for you

don't be too free.

Ah.

L'amour?

- Good evening, sir.

Hello.

Where's Fenella?

What?

I bet your pardon, Val.

- What did you say?

Anything wrong?

Oh. No, no.

I was thinking about Effie.

Oh?

What about her?

I was just wondering whet

Why?

I thought she seemed

She is.

She's got all the

No, it isn't that.

I'm not sure it's

in the house, and a young son-in-law,

Where is Fenella?

- Lying down.

- Isn't she well?

Poor girl.

We shall have a cocktail in the

I'd Fenella to be ready.

- Evening, darling.

Only a little.

Got a free lunch.

- Where?

- Why did you go there?

I wouldn't have gone to

- Wasn't my party.

- No one you know.

Male and female.

I see.

Oh, no, you don't.

Who were they?

Allen Travers, my assistant,

Was she attractive?

I never look over

What does that mean?

If we must be

they got married at

Well, why didn't you say

Didn't think it was necessary.

You're sure there were

My sweet, I may

but I can count up to three.

You are telling me

Fenella, I believe

Why not?

You say you've been with

After all, what do I

Anything?

Darling, I think I'm

I used to be so sure

You seemed to feel the

But-- but from the

I've had an awful feeling that--

Oh, Val.

When you look at me like

But every time I try

you make me feel a brute.

Brutish gentleman.

What?

Oh, it's only a bit

Well, it sounds more like one of

Oh, darling, you're so

I'm sorry, Val.

I don't suppose you

You're-- you're speaking

What are we but strangers?

Do you think I

Watched your pitiful

the disgust in your eyes

Not disgust.

Well, fear, then.

Anything you like.

I want so much to make you happy.

But I can't stand holding a--

a shivering ghost in my

- Hello, Austin.

Nice to see you down here.

Well, I've come to

Now, let's have a drink.

- What would you like?

Yes.

- Don Pedro.

What a nice house this is.

Yes, left to Sylvia by an aunt.

Rather expensive

I'll bet is it.

Well, here's to your first visit.

Well, I sincerely hope

I drink to that.

Your health, Arthur.

Ah, here's Sylvia.

Darling, this is my

How do you do, Mrs. Russell?

I've heard nothing but your

Don't you believe half of it.

I was just saying what

It must seem very dowdy

And I love it.

- Gin, dear?

- Do come and sit down.

I used to know this part

Hasn't altered much.

You know, it's grand to

But you believe in change,

Clever woman, your wife, Arthur.

Unmasks me in a sentence.

Nothing escapes Sylvia.

Yes, I'll admit I'm

When I went to New York,

New York must be very stimulating.

Overstimulating.

A city devoted to the creation of

needs, and wants, and desires.

A city to goad on the successes

Oh, well.

Hardly the place for poor Arthur.

Oh, I don't know. Why not?

Ah, this is Fenella, and

- How do you do?

Dr. Christie.

But you didn't tell me

- Why, she's exquisite.

My one regret in life,

Well, here we are.

Has that rich old

He certainly has.

You're Terry, aren't you?

Yes, sir.

- How do you do, sir?

Your father has been telling me

Oh, just the manufacturer’s pride

Mr. Penrose, I should

sometime, about Terry.

I believe in him, in his future.

I'd very much like your advice.

Well, uh, medicine's not exactly

No, but success is.

I suppose there are certain

Well, it's so easy for a man

It seems incredible that

have started off together.

Oh, poor dear.

Arthur's done very well

Lovely daughter,

What more can a man want?

Power.

Power's an unknown

like atomic energy and a strong

No, on balance, I

was a desirable factor in life.

Well, no one fully realizes

if they've never had it.

I haven't got power.

A certain amount of

Authority is power.

I envy you that.

I'd have enjoyed power.

Cigarette?

Thank you.

You're not afraid of me, are you?

Afraid?

I think you are, just a little.

Hmm.

You're a successful man.

Do you believe in magnetism?

You mean a dominant personality?

You can call it that.

Well, it's the basis

- Some women are dominant, too.

Well, my field has

It's just the family.

They certainly do you credit.

I've always tried to inspire

Very lucky to have such a mother.

I'm surprised you never married.

I was rather keen on

I guess I was too

She was lovely, though.

Well, of course, there

There's character,

that are more enduring.

You know, Sylvia,

of those random

that turn out to have an

How, Austin?

Well, your home life has give me

I'd almost forgotten

contentment, affection.

I can't tell you what

Having you with us has meant

You're very quiet, Fenella.

I'm afraid this evening's been

Not at all, Mr. Penrose.

I just have a bit of a headache.

Oh, my dear. I'm sorry.

Why, of course, darling.

- I don't want to spoil your evening.

I wouldn't dream of keeping you

What a pity Val couldn't come.

You knew he was busy.

I know he said so.

What are you doing in here,

Madam said I could.

Hmm.

Did she?

Ah, it's hot everywhere tonight.

It's Midsummer night.

Oh.

Is that what it is?

Yes, that's what it is.

What have you been

- Nothing.

Without my cap?

Oh, yes. That's it. Your hair.

Madam says it's nice and soft.

What's that tune on the wireless?

- I don't know.

Just wondered what

What do you want with music?

Don't you want music?

No.

Why not?

What are you smiling at?

Was I?

Is your face so out of

whether you're smiling or not?

Perhaps it's the

Effie, have you been mucking

Oh, no, Mr. Teddy.

I find them very dull.

Well, one of them's missing,

Well, I-- oh.

Was it something about

- Yes. Where is it?

- Mother?

She was looking at it early

Oh.

What an extraordinary taste

And what an extraordinary

Here, Val.

You're more expert than I am.Mm.

Obviously Fada.

Where'd you get Fada perfume?

Madam gave me a bottle.

What on earth for?

My birthday, sir.

I'm 18.

Sweetly pretty, the perfume is.

In a little drawer, with

Let's get some fresh air.

Yeah.

What have you got there?

- Mrs. Beaton.

- Why then get thee behind me?

Let me see it, then.

Come on.

Why, you dirty little cat.

I--

Unexpurgated at that.

Do you mean to say you

- Can you make head or tail of it?

- Where do you get hold of it?

What? Mother?

I tell you, it's true, sir.

She's lent me lots

All like this?

No, the others were easier.

Not so dull, you might say.

Dull?

You're pretty blase, aren't you?

You'd better get up to bed.

The book, sir?

Good night.

You know, that girl has the most

of childishness and--

And what?

And-- ah, skip it.

What are you talking about, Val?

The brutish gentleman

more brute than gentleman.

I suppose that's your

I don't get it.

I must be an interesting case

Man, watch the ape beneath

You must have fun in your family.

- My family?

You and your mother.

She's a bit better

Her knowledge is

Her mind isn't so cluttered up

She watches.

She watches for the

Why so bitter, Val?

Is it Fenella?

Leave her out of it.

Come in and have a drink with

Thank you, Sylvia, but

Good night, Mr. Penrose.

Thank you so much.

And I'm sorry I

I'm sorry, too.

Good night.

Good night, Austin.

And as usual, with you,

- So have I. Good night.

- Hello, Fenella.

Good night.

No, darling, please.

Look.

Fenella.

I'm worried, Val.

What about?

You two.

We're all right.

No, you're not.

All right, then, we're not.

Why are you so on the

I'd rather not rake

Dead ashes?

Is it as serious as all that?

Serious?

I haven't kissed

touched her hand for weeks.

Why not?

Because I'm a cad.

I can't face the

I can't face the knowledge

This is what I've

and I must be frank with you.

I feel so terribly to blame.

In what way?

Well, I ought never

Why not?

Fenella is not

She's too sensitive,

And when she fell in love with you,

But if anything, marriage

If only I could help you both.

It's up to us to work out

Breaks my heart.

I do love you both so much.

I'm sorry for Fenella, of course,

but I'm much sorrier for you.

After all, you're a man.

I'm going out in the

Stifling in here.

It's Midsummer night.

She said that.

- Who?

Ah.

I warned you about her.

- Oh, you're not suggesting that--

Only girls like

And they consider

Just you watch her.

See how she looks at

You're an attractive

Huh.

Nice to know someone thinks so.

Mother.

Oh, Terry, you should have

The Savoy was wonderful.

What on earth made you lend

What?

Surely not.

She said you did.

Did she?

Oh.

Ho, ho.

How awful of me.

Must have been the similarity

And I-- I was in such a hurry.

Well, never mind.

I don't suppose

She understood enough.

Well, I'm tired.

And incidentally, mother, where's

Yours?

- Yes, on clinical toxicology.

Effie said you were reading it in

That child's crazy.

I wasn't in the summer

Good night, dear.

What are you doing out there?

Oh.

I came to lock up, sir.

Beautiful moon, isn't it?

Yes.

How sweet the moonlight

Lovely speech.

Always has been.

You're romantic, aren't you?

Does it matter?

To me it does.

You knew I was out

Why'd you come?

I told you, to lock up.

You do look different

Do I?

Yes.

It's pretty.

I'm glad you like it.

Beautiful hair, Effie.

Oh, I do love you.

Say that again.

I love you.

Oh, Effie, you're sweet

Val!

I-- I must've been crazy.

She was right, then.

- Who?

- Darling, you mustn't--

Don't ever come near me again.

Wait, darling!

Wait, please!

- Darling, look.

Let me go.

Here, what's happening?

What's all the row?

Oh, Terry.

I wouldn't believe her.

I wouldn't listen when mother--

Mother?

Darling, I know it's stupid

but you must realize that

Val, you'd better go.

I'm sorry, Fenella.

I thought I heard someone crying.

- You did.

- What's happened?

- What's wrong?

What's the matter?

No.

Why, tell me, darling.

Talk to me.

Leave her alone.

You've done enough

How dare you speak

Yes?

Mrs. Russel to see

Oh.

Well, ask her to come in.

Mrs. Russell, Mr. Penrose.

Hello, Austin.

Sylvia, my dear.

How charming you look.

Thank you.

Come and sit down.

Well, now.

Austin, you once said you'd

- Well, of course. What is it?

Something for Arthur?

I wouldn't ask for that.

No, it's for Terry and Fenella.

Terry wants to embark on

Well, I do feel that before

Would it-- would it

to get him on one of

And Fenella?

She's on the verge of

And I can't think

for her than a long sea voyage

I'd be only too

The best thing for both of them.

Thank you, Austin.

That is kind of you.

Not at all.

A ship's a good cure

You love ships, don't you?

Yes.

They've always fascinated me.

Where they come from,

what they carry.

Oh, but this must

I mean, Arthur's

Arthur's horizon is bounded

But surely he talked

Oh, yes.

He talks about things.

Thing typed on bits of paper,

Mr. Smith has being transferred

And we shall seriously

getting rid of Miss Jones.

Miss Jones' tram from

late this morning, not the

A new package of

arrived from Strakers,

from Chile. Ha.

The romance of shipping.

You don't know what

this feeling of frustration,

touch, knowing what

what I could have accomplished

I think I understand, Sylvia.

I understand now your

Thank you, Austin.

Well, Fen, we've

There's only the horizon now.

Yes.

Even a few moments ago

Now, quite suddenly,

Do you suppose memories

Not as easily, perhaps.

But just as surely, if one tries.

We'll put them in the

in a fortnight under

No.

Hello, Val.

- Oh, hello, Sally.

No.

Not a word.

- Look.

- From Terry.

From Panama.

Hello, Sally.

Had an exciting time removing

He is still alive.

Hope you are the same, Terry.

- Romantic, isn't it?

I suppose if he'd put kind regards,

Perhaps.

You see, Terry's not

But then I understand him.

I understand his soul.

- And does he understand yours?

I seem to have been well

I don't think by either, Val.

Fen?

Yes?

You left your

Thanks, Terry.

- What's wrong?

Why do you always look

trying to find out something?

I am.

What?

Why you drove Val

- Terry, I'd rather not.

But you can't go on like

You're getting worse, not better.

I'm fine, Terry.

Don't lie, Fenella.

There's something behind all this,

over Val.

Oh, I know he was

But I'm sure he wouldn't

without cause.

And I'm just as sure he would.

Men are animals, mostly.

We're no different from women.

It just happens to be

And unfaithful.

Val's in love with you, Fenella.

No, Terry.

He's never been in love with me.

To him I was just a woman.

Look, darling.

You're sick, sick in your mind.

If you go drifting indefinitely,

into a morbid borderline case.

Oh, don't look so

I don't think you're going crazy.

But you can't go on brooding

becomes an obsession.

Fen, we've always shared

What is it that's bothering you?

What are you fighting?

What is it you're trying to hide?

Oh, Terry, help me.

Something mother said?

Yes.

- Before the wedding?

Mother came to me,

Her eyes were weird,

Ah, refreshments.

Well, Fen, in two days,

Yes.

How do you think your

I'd say improving steadily.

You're been marvelous, Terry.

Rot.

You're a very interesting case,

the turning point in my career.

- How?

I mean it.

I've dabbled in psychoanalysis

to show results.

You're my first case.

That's why it's up to you not

I won't.

To my favorite doctor.

And to our indomitable mother.

And to dad.

To dad.

Yes, Austin?

Arthur, I've good news for you.

Terry and Fenella

Caravel docks, late afternoon.

Oh, thank you, Austin.

That is good.

Arthur?

Arthur, are you there?

Arthur, are you all right?

That's strange.

Come with me, Miss Thomas.

Arthur.

Arthur, old man, what's happened?

Huh?

Oh.

I'm afraid I've

Stupid of me.

- Get my car right away.

- What about your appointments?

Yes.

Hello?

Oh?

That's very good of you, Austin.

I'll get in touch with

What?

They're coming tomorrow?

Uh, thank you, Austin.

Yes, I-- I am glad.

Goodbye.

I can't believe we're back home

- Can you, Terry?

- Hello, mommy dear.

- And Terry.

Well, let me look at your both.

How fit you look.

- Had a nice trip?

Terrific.

Gallstones, kidney stones,

And a stubborn mental case.

What?

And he cured them all.

I tell you, mother, we have a

Ha.

My sister, so young.

She plays a fair game

Goodness, mother.

Why not a fire and some

the old place up a bit?

Yes, it needs it.

Where's dad? How is he?

He's not so well, I'm afraid.

- What?

I'm glad you snatched your

There's little enough for you

- What do you mean?

Well, that's just

Dr. Morrison isn't certain.

Morrison?

He's a very

He's been attending your father

Well, that's years too long.

He must have some idea, though.

What does he think it is?

Well, first of all,

and then he thought

- Has he had him x-rayed?

Well, no.

No, your father's

Too ill?

Wait! Terry!

Dr. Morrison is with him now.

All the better.

But wouldn't it

I mean, another doctor's patient.

Isn't there some

Etiquette be blown.

Mother, is he really bad?

I-- I-- I am afraid you will

You should have sent for me.

- But, Terry, he was in good health.

- What do you mean by that?

Dear.

You young people

Be patient, now.

Dr. Morrison won't be long.

Mother seems very

Very.

Oh, this room, this house,

It's like a spider's web, a lot

up.

- Oh, Terry, I'm frightened.

I'm afraid of mother.

She's so strong, has

She seems more strange than ever.

Oh, Dr. Morrison.

What about my father?

Well, at first I

All the symptoms

- But now I'm not sure.

Well, the pulse has fallen

Severe cramp has

and there's a pronounced drop

- Have you had another opinion?

No.

I've asked Dr. Carter to

Hi, Terry.

Hello, dad.

How are you now?

Fine.

Have a good trip?

Very good.

So did Fenella.

Darling.

Daddy, dear.

Good to see you again.

Where's mother?

I'm here, dear.

Good.

She's been so-- so good.

Well, Terry?

I don't like it.

When did he have

Some time ago.

Hmm.

I think it was shortly

It started quite mildly,

more frequent and more severe.

- Why didn't you send for me?

You don't go through

without a few

Different when it's

Isn't that all the more reason for

I feel a little guilty, myself.

I've offered repeatedly

but your mother seems to

She's been magnificent, Terry.

Won't dream of having

Never spares herself,

She's-- she's like

Hmm.

Well, I'm going to get dad

Hello?

Fenella--

--you should send

She must have rest.

You know, she's been with your

--St. George's Hospital.

She won't move.

I've tried to get her to rest.

She never takes her eyes off him,

just sits crouched by his side.

Doesn't seem to

It's as though she's in a trance.

Only her eyes are alive.

There's something terrible

as though she's waiting.

- Come along, dear.

- Here you are, Fenella.

I, uh, I saw Val

- Really?

Came to my office several times,

- How did he seem?

I think he's still very much in

The ambulance will

Good.

What is wrong with daddy, Terry?

I don't know.

I don't know.

Morrison's not the only fool in

I'm as baffled as he is.

Some cases baffle the best brains

Yes, but you see, I'm smart.

I've got a future.

And I can't even diagnose

in time to save his life.

Terry!

Terry!

He's gone.

Poor daddy.

He certainly had a lot

Yes.

I hope I'm lucky enough

Hmm.

Hello?

Yes.

Oh.

I understand.

Yes.

Yes.

Very well.

Who was that?

Message from Mr. Penrose's

might be a little late.

Oh, thank you.

I didn't know that Penrose

Nor did I, mother.

Oh, he just wants to talk to me.

It's about your father's affairs.

Aren't you going to the hospital

What?

Of course not, mother.

Well, I think you should, dear.

And take Fenella with you.

Mommy, we couldn't

My dears, you mustn't brood.

You haven't been outside

You know your father

After all, life must go on.

If you don't want to go to the match,

Nobody would see you there.

What people would see, mother,

It's Val.

Val?

- Coming here?

- Oh, but I can't see him.

- He's still your husband, isn't he?

But Fenella, he is.

Oh, but, Terry, I--

My dears, we must

Terry, what shall I do?

Powder your face.

Terry?

Yeah?

Why do you think mother acted

about wanting us to go

I wonder.

Sometimes I feel she's trying

So do I.

- Val!

Hello, Fenella.

I just thought I'd bring these.

Oh, how kind of you.

Didn't expect to see any one

We haven't one.

- Won't you come in?

- Is Terry around?

I'll call him.

Oh, no hurry.

I just thought I'd say hello.

- These flowers are beautiful.

You, uh, you have a good voyage?

Lovely, thanks.

How was the Panama Canal?

Narrow.

Yes, of course it would be.

You're looking well, Fenella.

Different, more glowing.

How have you been, Val?

Pretty wretched.

I'm sorry. I didn't mean

Oh, Fenella, those

I only brought them because I thought

It's no good seeing each other,

It's only hurting us both.

Surely we can be friends.

Too much has happened, Val.

Then suppose we

Oh, Val.

Fenella, darling,

I followed you on your voyage,

I've been with you all the time,

Oh, Val, take me away.

Take me away, quickly.

Away from this house,

Yes, darling.

Val!

Hello, Terry.

Val, you've got to come

I can't do that, Terry.

That's fine, but this

- What is it, Terry?

Never mind. I'll tell you later.

You were right, Terry.

There is something here.

Arsenic.

Enough to kill?

Easily a fatal dose.

Fool.

Fool.

Why didn't I recognize

Val?

Yeah.

I'd like you to have an official

Official report?

Yes.

What are you going to do?

The only thing one can do.

What do you mean?

Don't you realize it was murder?

Yes.

- Austin.

I'm so glad you came.

Well, your message

- I'm awfully sorry I'm late.

Shall we go talk

Yes.

It's much more comfortable.

- How are you, Sylvia?

- And the children?

They're out this evening with Val.

Oh?

He and Fenella are

Really? I am pleased.

Here we are.

I say, Sylvia, you have made it

Yes.

This is my haven, where

I love to shut the world out.

Gives one a curious

Thank you.

Do sit down, Austin.

Well now.

How can I help you?

- I wanted to see you about us.

Poor Arthur's going won't make

I hope you'll let me come here

and the children.

There's no one listening.

- Listening?

You don't have to

We're alone in the house.

But I don't quite understand.

Oh yes you do.

You're not a child.

Neither am I. We both

We're strong.

We saluted the strength in

But I'm the stronger.

My courage is greater than yours.

Forgive me, Sylvia, I still can't

Oh yes you can.

I can see that by the

Fear?

Yes.

You needn't try to evade my eyes.

I know their power.

Oh, I know I'm not young.

I'm not beautiful.

But beauty isn't important.

It's ephemeral, insipid.

Please, Sylvia.

I really don't understand you.

We'll talk another day.

I'll come back when

I am myself.

Don't be such a coward.

You want me.

You've wanted me from

And I want you.

But Sylvia, to me,

anything but my friend's wife.

You're lying to yourself, not me.

Very well.

I hoped to avoid the truth,

I must tell you that

But truth is

Arthur was my friend.

Oh, that mediocrity?

He was a real person.

That's why I was so fond of him.

But you came here for me.

And the others.

Until I met you, I never

and a woman possible.

I found it was.

You were a stimulating companion.

You--

You wanted me.

My dear Sylvia,

I should either have taken you

- You're lying.

You don't want me.

No, my dear.

I'd have spared you

Please go.

Hello, Terry.

- Mother in her room?

Thanks.

Oh, Terry.

What are you looking at?

Probably the most extraordinary woman

Terry, whatever is

Since you came back,

You're not going the same way

No.

I'm too strong for you.

Oh, what do you want?

To talk to you about yourself.

You'd like that, wouldn't you?

Why do you say that?

You're an interesting

a study in ultimate egotism.

You're trying to

Oh. How funny.

How funny.

As if you could.

I'm not beginning on you, mother.

I believe I've finished.

You think you know me?

Yes, I do.

You read me superficially

according to certain

Suppose I tell you what I see?

Oh, go on.

I see first a facade,

of a devoted wife and

the sympathetic friend.

Then the undercurrent,

by mediocrities, frustrated,

the power behind the

the people with whom

How far wrong am I, so far?

I-- I no idea you

Now the experiments.

The humiliation you inflicted

The books, the wine, the roses,

of his confidence in himself.

Then his dog.

You didn't really

You've got nerves of steel.

You were fond of Ace,

to dad, so he had to go.

- I don't want to hear any more.

You're my son, all right.

You've got my will.

That was your first

It gave you a taste for it.

Then there was Effie.

I only tried to educate the girl,

make her a little less uncouth.

You succeeded admirably.

You taught her the subtleties

only learned the elementaries.

Oh.

Your work on Fenella was

Then you went too far.

What do you mean?

The trouble with

insatiable, like blackmail,

Fenella, Val, Effie.

When were you going

You?

I worship you.

You-- you talk of sublimation.

You've been my sublimation.

I've lived through you.

Sadists get their

out of those they love.

You were waiting till

Do you know that every

I've found myself watching

That's why I never bought

what treatment you

in order to inflict the maximum

Terry, why are you saying

Because they're true.

You'd almost broken dad's spirit,

He wasn't much fun.

Then Penrose came into your life.

Penrose had nothing to do it.

Indeed he did, a great deal more

You used him to get Fenella

Then dad was alone with

night after night.

Well?

What of it?

When you took my medical book

I thought it a rather

It was deliberate premeditation,

What are you implying?

Murder.

The medicine you gave

No.

You're making a mistake,

You made the mistake when you failed

While we were away,

You handled things very cleverly.

But you were just a bit too slow.

When you learned I was coming home,

out and being able to save him.

So you had to hurry.

And that made you

- Didn't it?

The chemist must

Sure-- surely we can prove it.

He-- he blundered.

Don't lie, mother.

It's unworthy of you.

You're trying to trap me.

Why should I?

You're trapped anyway.

Terry, why are you torturing me?

What was your motive

I'm not a policeman.

I'm your son. Tell me.

What was your motive?

Suppression, the denial

the frustration of a desire

Are you trying to justify murder?

No.

- Only stating the cause.

No.No.No.

He was merely the

There's a clay for me to

Most men are despicable,

It's the women behind

Women have a seed of

They know what in a man's mind,

You.

There's nothing in you that hasn't

You think that I love Penrose?

- Yes.

But with him, I could have

- I could have had power.

Yes.

I love power.

And I got it, the supreme power,

I watched him day after day.

And I thought, if I

Sometimes I stopped his doses.

He thought he was getting better.

But it was in my hands, his life mine,

Stop!

Stop!

You can't even stand

and I could watch

You think I'm mad, don't you?

I know you're not mad.

You're just evil.

All the time you were

you were busy with your

You'd have gone on lying

if I hadn't found the poison.

Well, what are you going

Oh, no.

You won't be let off so

I know you're not mad.

But your judge won't.

You'll spend the rest of

You're not old.

You'll have plenty of

And no power to get away.

No more power, and

Police?

Yes.

You're afraid, aren't you?

Afraid for the first

Afraid of your own thoughts--

--of the quiet.

No. I'm not afraid.

Give my love to Sally.