All language subtitles for My Friend Irma.1949.EN

Well, this is how New York looks
when you see it in the movies...

and on picture postcards. And
this is how it looked to me...

Jane Stacey, when I first
came here from Connecticut.

But New York's a great
town. It's got Park Avenue.

Lovely, isn't it? I wish
I lived there, but I don't.

I live in Mrs. O'Reilly's
Boarding House...

at 185 West 73rd
Street, Apartment 3-B...

next to a charming delicatessen.

But I still love New York, because
it's full of unusual sights...

and the most unusual sight
in town is my friend Irma.

See if you can pick her out.

Having a little trouble?
Then let me help you spot her.

You see that street over
there, that's being torn up?

And that sign that says,
"Men at work, beware"?

You notice how all the normal
people are walking around that hole?

Well, in a few minutes, you will
be able to pick out my roommate...

Irma Peterson. Watch.

Yes, you've probably guessed it.

That's my friend Irma.

My Friend Irma says "Bird Dogs are a lie

"I bought a pup and he grew up

"But he never learned to fly"

My Friend Irma says
"A meatball is a dance

"Where the lonesome butchers go

"When looking for romance"

She bought a clock last summer

But now her wall is blank

She heard of daylight saving
time And took it right to the bank

My Friend Irma lives in a world apart

But men prefer their dates with her

She makes them feel so smart

Maybe My Friend Irma

Is not so very dumb at heart

Good morning, Janie.

Mrs. O'Reilly, I know why you're here.

You want the rent. You
always want the rent.

You love Irma and me
like your own daughters...

but business is business and we're
two months late already, right?

But please don't tamper
with me this morning...

because I haven't had my coffee yet...

- and I can't find the coffee pot.
- Coffee pot?

And don't tell me only an idiot
would put it in the piano...

because this is Irma's
week to keep house...

and I've got to figure out
where an idiot would put it.

She was playing the radio.

- Now, Janie, let's...
- Quiet, Mrs. O'Reilly. I'm on the trail.

Butter, stove. Coffee
pot must be... Here.

You see? It all figures.

- Shall I look in the bathtub for the bread?
- O'Reilly, you slay me.

And now, while the coffee's perking...

I'm gonna tell you a piece of good news that
will really knock you right off your feet.

- Janie, you got a chance for a good job?
- The best job any girl ever got.

But if I stand around here talking
all morning, I'll blow the whole thing.

So be a dear, and get my clothes
out of the clothes closet...

- while I take a shower, will you?
- What dress do you want to wear?

I think I'll try the
nonchalant approach.

My brown dress with...

the imitation-but-looks-like-real
alligator belt, bag, and shoes.

All right, Janie.

- Janie? Would you come here for a minute?
- What is it?

It looks like Irma's been
doing a little housecleaning.

Well, wonder of wonders.

She even had the sense to
take the clothes out first.

- Yes, where do you suppose she put them?
- Why, she probably...

Oh, no! Oh, mother! Oh, murder!

I'll answer it, Mrs. O'Reilly.

My feet are wet, and I want to
be sure I'll be electrocuted.

Yes?

Hello, this is Irma Peterson talking.

To whom have I the
pleasure of speaking to?

You have the pleasure of
speaking to Jane, Irma.

Jane, darling, I called you
because I wanted to tell you...

to be sure not take a shower.

And why shouldn't I take a shower and
be clean like all other normal people?

Well, you see, I painted the clothes closet,
and I hung all the clothes in the shower.

Irma, when you come home tonight...

would you bring a piece of
good, strong rope with you?

Because there's something else I want
to hang in the shower with the clothes.

Really, Jane? What?

You. Irma Peterson, how
could you be so stupid?

Irma. Irma, are you listening to me?

Sorry, your three minutes are up.

Al?

- Al, Jane's mad at me because...
- Quiet, Chicken.

- I'm in the midst of one of my
biggest deals. - I'm sorry.

Hello, Joe? Al. Got a problem.

Got all my dough riding on Long
Beach Sal in the fourth race.

What's the good word?

Joe, you mean I lost my dough?

But you said it was a sure thing.

You told me the horse was wired
and you had the battery fixed.

What happened? What?

The horse won, but the
jockey got electrocuted?

Murder. So long, Joe.

- What's wrong, Al, honey?
- Black Friday. All my deals backfiring.

If I didn't have such ambition,
who knows where I'd be?

- Here's your lunch, Al.
- Thanks, Chicken.

What are you doing back here again?
You just got your check this morning.

This is an emergency. Bill,
could I have an advance?

Promise you will not get
another job for a week.

- It's against the rules, Al.
- Fine thing.

Been coming here four years steady
and can't build up a credit rating.

Nothing I can do about it.

Beginning to lose my
faith in my fellow man.

- Well, Al, maybe if you got a job...
- Please, Chicken, watch your language.

Only a question of time before
one of my deals comes through.

- I'm working on one now. Can't miss.
- What is it, Al?

Ripcords.

Got a chance to corner the ripcord market
and sell them to pajama manufacturers.

It's a natural. You wake up in the
morning, bale out of your pajamas.

- You like it?
- It sounds wonderful, Al...

- but gosh, I'm getting a little
discouraged. - Discouraged? Why?

Well, we've been engaged for five years and
we're not getting any closer to that day...

when we carry each other
across the threshold.

Gee, Al, I'm not getting any
younger, and, after all...

when I get married and have children...

I don't want them to be older than I am.

Look, Chicken, I think
you're being very impatient.

- Al, but...
- Please.

Every morning when you go to
work you take the bus, right?

- You wait 15 minutes for that bus, right?
- Right.

Fifteen minutes a day, twice
a day, six times a week...

30 times a month, 12 times a year.

Do you realize how much of your life
is spent waiting for that crummy bus?

- What about it, Al?
- Well, I'm your fianc�.

I think I deserve the same
consideration as a bus.

Oh, Al, I'm sorry I questioned you.

When you explain, it all seems so right.

Sure. It's that Jane who's
poisoning your mind against me.

Oh, well, you know Jane. She
wants to marry a man with money.

But I don't think money is important.

Look, I have you, and you have
me, and we both have nothing.

Come on, will buy you a drink.

- What'll it be?
- One large one. Chicken, you want one?

Yes, please, Al.

A large one for the lady, small
one for me. Want to lose weight.

Got you. What'd you like to have, the
California type or the Florida type?

Well, I'd like to have half of each.
You see, I've always wanted to travel.

Please, Chicken.

Just a minute.

Seymour, California needs a transfusion.

- What are you doing back there, sleeping?
- Sleeping? Are you kidding?

I'm standing back here like
a horse working like a dog.

- There are customers out here.
- So what? I'm not on a commission basis.

- Now, wait a minute.
- Don't be a big man with me, Steve.

I'm standing back here in this
black hole taking all the abuse...

while you're out there like
a big man, with a view yet.

Excuse me. A little help problem.

What's the matter with you?

I asked you to squeeze a few
oranges and you blow your top.

Blow my top?

I got an occupational disease.

That cheap boss, why don't
he put in electric squeezers?

- Look what's happening to me?
- So?

So is this something for a young
boy to go through life with, yet?

- Don't exaggerate.
- Exaggerating?

Do you realize it's very
difficult to dance with a girl...

light a cigarette, and
shave with a hand like this?

Stop bellyaching. You'll get
onto the job once you get into it.

That's just the trouble.

- I hate the job.
- You've hated every job we've ever had.

Certainly, because I listen to you.

The last job you made me
take, a flapjack flipper.

It took me six months to
get rid of a swivel wrist.

Let me ask you one thing.

Why do you always have to
pick on jobs that deform me?

- Cheeta, listen. Where do you begin?
- I'm in there somewhere.

Squeeze the oranges before we get fired.

All right, I'll do it. But you
be careful how you talk to me.

- Remember, I haven't been too well.
- You're just a hypochondriac.

- What's the matter with you?
- You said a dirty word.

Now, look here, Seymour...

The least you could do is
show me some sympathy, Steve.

When you were sick, I
was very considerate.

Remember when the doctor
gave you only 30 days to live?

- Yes.
- Didn't I go out and get you a calendar?

Look, I don't want to argue with you.

We're making $35 a week and it's
steady. We'll keep it that way.

You squeeze the oranges back here,
and I'll sell them out there, okay?

Okay.

Here's to love Here's to love

Here's to all that love can stand for

It's a wishful wonderland for just you

Here's to love Love that love

That without it It's true

It's the feeling lovers swear by

Better look out below

Whereby Hate to see you go

And lately I kind of sigh

As I see you rolling by

Yes, it's love that's growing

Yes, it's love It's showing

Here's to love

Here's to life with you

Gee, you have a wonderful voice.

- Are you kidding?
- Friend, did you ever sing professionally?

Yeah, I'm a great big opera singer.
I squeeze oranges for a hobby.

- Want to hear something from an opera?
- Oh, yes, will you sing...

Laugh, Clown, Laugh
from the opera Parcheesi?

- Please, Chicken.
- I like his voice, Al.

- I like it, too, but no one else does.
- Everybody should.

If Irma likes you, you're in.

Because Irma is the average
public. She's got the common touch.

Common? Oh, Al.

- Touchy dame.
- What's the matter with her?

- She's nuts about me. But it bothers me.
- Why?

Don't know if she loves me or my money.

That's one thing I don't
have to worry about.

Nobody's killing themselves over
a $35-a-week orange-juice salesman.

- Why must you be one?
- What do you mean?

Don't like to waste words, friend,
so I'll get right to the point.

My boy, this is the
luckiest day of your life.

- Are you in show business?
- Indirectly, son.

For the past five years, I'm what
is technically known as retired.

- Collect an annuity every week.
- Every week?

Like clockwork. So, naturally,
with all this time on my hands...

- I have developed a hobby.
- Well, what's that?

Developing talent, and
helping them to the top.

Friend, under my auspices, there
is no telling where you can go.

Why, I can have people standing
in line to hear your golden voice.

I doubt it.

Friend, believe me, when it comes to
standing in line, I am an authority.

Now, time is money. I'm a
busy man, so will not haggle.

Will offer you, with the regular
manager-artist contract, the usual 10%.

- Sounds fair.
- And when you get better, you'll get 15%.

- I get 15%?
- Slip of the tongue. I get 15%.

See you know your business,
son. What do you say?

It's not as simple as all that. I have
a partner. I'd like to consult him.

- Well...
- I heard the whole thing. We accept.

- Seymour, this is Mr...
- Just call me Al.

- Yeah. Al, this is my partner, Seymour.
- Glad to know you.

- See how embarrassing it gets?
- It's an occupational disease.

Yeah. Well, boys, what do you say?

- Sounds all right.
- What have we got to lose? Let's go.

Jane?

Yes?

- Are you mad at me?
- No.

- Are you sad at me?
- No, no.

Then why don't you look at me?

Because they have capital
punishment in New York...

and I don't think I can beat the rap.

Sweetie, don't cry. You can't help it.

It's just that nature gave
some girls talent and brains...

and with you, it slipped you a mickey.

I try so hard to please.

I know you do, sweetie, and I hate to
keep jumping all over you all the time...

but why, out of 365 days of the year,
did you have to pick this day to ruin me?

How did I ruin you? And
why is today so important?

Because today I was to be interviewed
for the job as private secretary...

to Richard Rhinelander III, head of
the Rhinelander Investment Company.

- So what?
- So what?

Haven't you ever read in the papers where
a poor secretary marries her wealthy boss?

Why couldn't I be Mrs.
Richard Rhinelander III?

The third? What good is that
if he has two other wives?

Please, honey.

Hello? Yes, Alice.

Yes, I know I'm late for my interview,
but, you see, there's been an accident...

and I haven't got a thing to wear.

Wait a minute, I'll be right down.

I know where I can get some clothes.

No, Jane. No. No, you can't do that.

No!

Jane, no!

I'm gonna like this neighborhood.

We just lose our job. We
ain't got no place to live.

We ain't got from what to eat. And
already you're thinking of luxuries yet.

Steve, you sure this is the right place?

Certainly, this is the right place.
What are you so suspicious about?

I don't know. I think
that guy's a phony.

He didn't get them shifty eyes
from watching tennis matches.

Forget it.

Every big shot has a hideaway where
he can have a little privacy...

and this is probably Al's.

Just a minute.

Yes?

This is an office?

Oh, hello. Al will be here in just
a minute. Please, come in, gentlemen.

Just make yourselves at home. I'll
get into something more comfortable.

Oh, dear.

Hey, Steve?

Hey, Steve, I come from a very good
family, and I want to know just one thing.

- Who's got the opium concession here?
- I'll be back in just a minute.

- Hi, Alice. I'm sorry I'm late...
- You're too late.

He's hired someone else.

- No, he can't do that.
- Wait for me.

I'll take it.

- Who are you?
- I'm Jane Stacey, your new secretary.

But I've already hired someone else.

Mr. Rhinelander, I don't want
you to think that I'm bold...

and you certainly have a right
to hire anyone you like...

but I just want you to know
that I've wanted this job...

more than anything I've ever
wanted before in my life.

Would you mind explaining
what you're talking about?

Well, for two years, I made friends
with Alice, your secretary...

and she promised me that if she ever
left, she'd recommend me for the job.

I took her to lunch almost every day.

Mr. Rhinelander, I've got
a $65 investment in you.

Well, why did you go
to all this trouble?

Because I'd be perfect for you. I
mean, I'd be a perfect secretary.

I know everything there is to
know about you. For instance...

on Mondays, you go to the Plaza.

On Tuesdays, you go to
the 21 Club for lunch.

On Wednesdays, you have dinner...

at your mother's house on Long Island.

On Thursdays, you play poker at
your penthouse on Park Avenue.

On Fridays, you go to the Athletic
Club and the Stork Club in the evening.

On Saturdays, you play golf.

On Sundays, you go horseback
riding in the early morning...

if you don't have a
hangover from Saturday night.

And if you do, you go to
Jim's Steam Room for a massage.

- Amazing.
- No, it's just research.

But really, Miss Stacey,
people just don't do this...

I'm sorry. I hope you'll forgive me.

- I'll go now.
- Miss Stacey?

Yes?

Take a letter.

And now, for the jackpot question.

What is the name of the
song and who's singing it?

Remember, if you guess it, you
get merchandise worth $50,000.

- Are you standing by your radio?
- Yes.

Chicken, turn off the radio.

I'm trying to decide what
to do about Steve's future.

Got a big problem with the boys,
and you're playing the radio.

Telling you, you and them
contests driving me crazy.

Please, Al.

And now, folks, here's your
first clue to the song;

Bring my daughter a glass of water.

Daughter, that's someone's
child. Water is liquid.

It must be Old Man's River.

Chicken, believe me, you've got
no chance to win this contest.

Why not?

For one thing, all contest
winners live in one of two places:

Butte, Montana or Keokuk, Iowa.

- I'll move.
- Ain't worth it.

And the only other way
you can win a contest...

is if you have a husband who isn't working
and you are the mother of 32 children.

Thirty-two children? Al, maybe...

Chicken, that contest is over
in two weeks. Be practical.

Al.

They're playing Old Man River?

Chicken, it's the doorbell. Get
it, please. I am busy thinking.

Irma, will you hurry?

It's Jane.

- Al, what about...
- Say nothing. Nothing.

Honey, why does it take
you so long to answer...

No wonder. Well, the least
you can do is help me.

Okay, Jane.

Irma, I've got the job, and that
Richard Rhinelander's a dream.

So good-looking and so wealthy.
That's what can come from work.

Chicken, she's starting on me again.

Now, Jane, you give Al a chance.
After all, he's really a live wire.

Yeah, and it's only a question of time
before somebody puts a chair under him.

With talk like that I'm beginning
to think I'm not wanted for dinner.

Al, you can get a job as a mind reader,
because tonight I want to be alone.

Jane, got some plans I
want to talk to you about.

I'm not interested in you and your
plans. I just want to be alone.

Jane, guarantee you...

Besides, I want to
be fresh and rested...

- for my job tomorrow.
- But Jane.

Look, why don't you take Irma out to
dinner and the movies for a change?

Break down, spend a nickel.

But my deal.

You and your deals. I don't
want to hear anymore about them.

Everything you've ever
come up with has been phony.

I wouldn't say that.

What in the world is going on in here?

I don't know, lady. I'm
just taking a shower.

All right, let's have an explanation,
and you'd better make it good.

Will explain everything, Jane.

Steve, that kid in there,
the good-looking one...

Does that give him a
right to be in my bedroom?

- Yes, but...
- I'm trying to tell you, Jane...

he's my new find. The
guy sings like a bird.

And given 24 hours with me as his
manager, he's going to go places.

Yes, he's going to go places,
and you're going to follow him.

And as for that monstrosity in the bathroom,
if he isn't out of here in two seconds flat...

I'll call the police.

I heard everything you said, lady, and
if I ain't welcome here, I'm leaving.

Look, Jane, be reasonable.

All I'm asking is that we accommodate
the boys here on the couch.

- There's room for both of them...
- Just for tonight.

- They go, and you go.
- Please, Jane, for my sake?

- For your sake?
- This'll mean so much to Al and me.

- To you?
- Yes, Al has given me his word...

that if he makes a success with Steve...

he'll be able to quit the
unemployment line and marry me.

Jane, I don't want to be an old maid.

What do you say, Jane?
Just for one night?

If you'll do this for me, I'll
make you best man at my wedding.

All right, you two, come out.

We've met but not
formally. I'm Steve Laird.

Gentlemen, you may consider this
living room the YMCA for one night.

- Oh, Jane.
- But I have news for you.

The YMCA doesn't serve
meals, and neither do I.

Who's worried about meals?
You are all my guests tonight.

Your guests?

Yes, we are leaving for the Gypsy
Tea Room for dinner, immediately.

Give this to me slowly, Al.
Who's paying for all this?

Will thank you not to embarrass
me. Everything is taken care of.

- Please, Jane, come with us.
- All right. I'll go.

But I've got the same feeling
Marie-Antoinette must've had...

when she took that chariot ride.

Chariot ride. Hey, can I have my pants?

- My little pigeons.
- Who's a pigeon?

It's only me, Professor Kropotkin.

- Hello, Professor.
- Hi, Professor.

Janie and Irma, my two
little proud beauties.

One with her head in the air, and
the other with air in her head.

Why, Professor.

Excuse me, girls, just a
little joke I picked up.

Professor, as long as we're
going to have dinner here...

what do you advise?

- I advise that you eat across the street.
- Across the street?

- The boss.
- What's going on out here, Kropotkin?

Mr. Ubang, these are all friends of mine
who was going to eat across the street...

but I said instead they shall eat here
because we have the best food in town.

Very good, Kropotkin. But I'll
take care of the customers...

and you go back there and
take care of your fiddle.

- Okay.
- Step right this way, folks.

I'll take you to your table, and
you can order the best food in town.

Seymour, would you care to dance?

I'd love to dance with you, Irma, but
I'm gonna have to take short steps.

I don't wanna be too far from
the table when the food comes.

You see, I haven't been too well.

What's the matter, don't
you believe in fortunes?

No, I believe you make your own life,
and you only get what you plan for.

Not me. I like to take it as it comes, and
then, if you're surprised, you're on velvet.

- What does it say?
- I'm on velvet.

It says, "You are placing your confidence
in someone who will enrich you. "

- Must mean Al.
- Yes, Al's a pretty good confidence man.

Well, what have I got to lose?

Now what's yours say?

"Tomorrow is a day of
great consequence...

"a milestone on your path to happiness. "

It must be a stale cookie.
It should read, "Today. "

- Today?
- Well, we met today.

No, it's tomorrow, because tomorrow
I start a new job and everything.

I told you these things were uncanny.

You think Irma would mind
if we eavesdropped a little?

No. What does it say?

"You are brilliant, and your intellect
is the envy of all your friends. "

After that, it's a cinch.
Seymour's is a blank.

Yes.

And that's how Steve and I became pals.
But he's too easygoing. He's not like me.

If somebody does something
I consider an offense...

I don't take it. I fight back. I revolt.

Seymour, that's a sign of
character, and I admire you for it.

I like men who are
offensive and revolting.

It's getting worse all the time.

All right, make your announcement.

Ladies and gentlemen...

the Gypsy Tea Room is proud
to present its floorshow.

- They have a floorshow here?
- Yeah.

- Who's in the show?
- Well...

The Gypsy Tea Room
is proud to present...

a man who has been acclaimed a singer...

Steve Laird.

- What's this?
- Do not quibble, son, you're on.

Not here.

Look, son, I am your manager.
Never question my judgment.

- First rule of show business.
- Two and two are beginning to make four.

You'd better sing, Steve.
Otherwise, it's the dishes.

I ain't going to wash no dishes. I got
a dishpan hand already and it hurts.

- They don't mean you. You can't sing.
- I can't wash dishes, either.

- Just sit there.
- Lots of luck.

- Anything in particular?
- No. Here, let's try this one.

- E flat.
- Okay, fine.

If your dreams knew me longer

And your arms knew me more

Then this plea might be stronger

Be a blessing not a bore

So why not try my love

and see what goes

You might find you like it

Who knows? Who knows?

Love me, love me

say you love me

Just for fun

Softly sigh it

try it, try it

Just for fun

If you're close to me

Maybe you'll agree

Here at hand's that magic land

We're seeking constantly

Tingle, tingle

when we mingle

Just for fun

Let's pretend we'll never end

what we've begun

For if we play at love

we may stay in love

Then you'll be glad you tried it

Just for fun

Thank you.

- Here, try this one.
- Okay.

Now, what are you doing out here?

The boss told me to come out and do
something, or I do do the dishes...

- so I came out, already.
- I'm not through singing yet.

Well, don't get mad, Steve. I
just came out. I thought I'd woik.

- Thought you'd what? -
Woik? The W-O-I-K, woik.

That's ridiculous. Now go back to
the table until I'm through singing.

All right, if you keep on singing,
will you do me a personal favor...

and sing the song you
sing with the chore?

Chore?

Yeah, when the fellows in the
band all stand up together...

and they sing with you.

C-H-O-I-R
is choir.

I didn't know you said it like that.
But I'd like you to do the number anyway.

If you would do the number with
the chore, I'd appreciate it?

You would what?

I said if you would do the
number I'd appreciate it?

Why do you leave the
last word up in the air?

It's the end of a sentence.

There's a period there.
You don't need it anymore.

You would say, "I'm going to the
corner. " Not, "I'm going to the corner?"

Who talks like this?

You talk the way you want. I
talk that way because listen.

Could I have that phrase just once more?

I said, if you would do the
number, I'd appreciate it?

What, are you asking me,
or are you telling me?

- I'm wondering.
- You're wondering.

Now, if you want to do the number,
okay, and if you don't want to do it...

All right, if you do me a favor,
you and I will become friends.

- I gotta do you a favor first?
- That's right.

- And if I do it, we won't argue?
- Never again.

- You swear?
- Swear.

- Scout's honor?
- Scout's honor.

Take two giant steps. Go
back, you didn't say, "May I?"

- I'm all right now.
- All right.

- Now here's the favor I want you to do.
- What is it?

Go like this.

Maybe I didn't hear you
correctly. What is that?

Keep doing it. Repeat it. Go ahead.

There's a song in the air

But the fair se�orita
Really doesn't care

For that song in the air

So I'll sing to the mule

If you're sure she won't think

That I am just a fool

Serenading a mule

And try as she may

In her voice is a flaw

All that the lady can say

Is...

You're the one for me Hey!

Love me, love me

say you love me

Just for fun

- What was the idea of that? - Well,
after all, they're practically strangers.

Jane, why don't you come to bed?

You said you wanted to get in early so
you'd make a nice impression on Richard.

Yes, I know I did, sweetie, but
I'm just not tired, that's all.

- My, it's warm in here.
- A little while ago you said it was cold.

Yes, I know.

Funny how the temperature jumps up
and down when there's a man around.

Irma, don't be ridiculous.

- Interesting view, isn't it?
- It's the one I like.

Park Avenue?

- It's pretty far, Jane.
- It's not too far for me.

A lot of them try, but
just a few of them make it.

Well, I think I've found a
shortcut, through Wall Street.

- Well, do you think the trip is worth it?
- For me it is, because I've got to have it.

- Why? - Because I'm a little
tired of my life, Steve.

I'm tired of getting up
at 7:00 in the morning...

sharing the subway, with
the rest of the sardines...

pounding a typewriter all day
just so I can look forward...

to a scintillating
night at Coney Island.

It doesn't sound too bad. It
sounds like a pretty average life.

That's just it. I hate being average.

All my life, I've been average.

I came from an average family.

My father was a druggist,
never quite a doctor.

There's a difference.

Now that I've grown up, I don't
wear the cheapest clothes...

but I can never afford an original.

I don't starve, but I don't drink champagne.
I'm just some place hanging in the middle.

Oh, sure, it's an average life, but
I'm sick and tired of being average.

Well, with me it's different.
Just living is a kick.

I'm just as average as...

I mean, I'm a pretty ambitious guy...

but what's the use of living if
you have to kill yourself to live?

Well, I think I've found an easier way.

- Rhinelander?
- Maybe.

The thing that gets me all mixed up is
how I could have figured you out all wrong.

How do you mean?

Well, tonight, when I was
singing at the Gypsy Tea Room...

I looked over at you, and
I had a feeling that...

I guess I was wrong. But
thanks for straightening me out.

Love me, love me

say you love me

try it, try it

You're so close to me

Maybe you'll agree

Tingle, tingle

Just for fun

Let's pretend we'll never end

what we've begun

we may stay in love

Then you'll be glad you tried it

Just for fun

- Steve?
- Yes?

- Stop singing, will you?
- Why?

- Just stop. That's all.
- Okay, it's your house.

Jane, you like him, don't you?

I'm not interested in what I like.
I'm interested in what's good for me.

Good night, honey.

I'm a fool.

I should have said, "Forget Park
Avenue and Richard Rhinelander. "

I should have said,
"You're my kind of girl. "

Then I should have taken her in my arms
and said, "Love is the important thing. "

Then I should have said...

So say it, already, kiss me,
and we'll all get some sleep.

"Mail in the middle.
Letters on the left. "

"Pipe. "

"Likes tobacco kept moist. "

- That ought to do it.
- It certainly should.

Mr. Rhinelander.

Do you know I keep tobacco
in there? Not goldfish.

- But it says... I mean...
- Do you mind if I see what it says?

"Tips from Alice. "

- I'll go now.
- No, please stay.

"Shy while dictating. "

Shy while dictating?
"Smokes pipe after luncheon.

- "Monday, directors' meeting. "
- I'm sorry, I was just trying to be efficient.

Really? Now that my life's an
open book, let's examine yours.

Now, let's see. Name?
Jane Stacey, correct?

Correct.

- Age?
- Just leave a question mark.

Question mark?

Now, then, you live at the
Barbizon Home for Women, right?

Wrong. I have a charming
apartment on West 73rd Street.

I see.

Well, you live alone with
a mother who adores you.

No, I live with a
roommate named Irma who...

Who is a secretary
like yourself, correct?

No, Irma's a novelist.

Well, you see, I'm no good at biography.

Maybe I'll get your friend, the
novelist, to write it some day.

Well, I'm afraid she wouldn't have time,
because, you see, besides her novel...

she's also engaged to be married
to a very nice young fellow.

What does he do?

He works for the
government. He's a collector.

I see. Well, now let's
get back to my life.

Excuse me.

Tuesday night, you have
dinner at the Stork Club.

- But with whom?
- With Dorothy Danbury.

Oh, yes.

Miss Stacey, do you like the Stork Club?

- I've never been there, Mr. Rhinelander.
- Well, good, then it's about time you went.

How would you like
to go with me tonight?

- Who, me?
- Yes, you. Why not?

- Unless you don't care...
- But I do. I'd love to.

- Good. Then it's Stork Club tonight.
- Oh, yes. Yes, sir.

...if you can identify the name
of the song and who's singing it.

And so, don't forget to listen tonight
when some lucky person will win...

- $50,000 worth of merchandise.
- I won't.

Remember, tonight over the same station,
it's your Lucky Jackpot Program...

with the grand prize of
$50,000 worth of merchandise...

so be sure you're home...

- because we may call you.
- "Irma, stay home tonight.

"They may call me. "

Miss Peterson, didn't
you hear that buzzer?

I wasn't sure. There was
an airplane overhead, and...

Is something wrong?

No. No, there's nothing
wrong. Everything's lovely.

But will you please tell me where
that letter to the Goodrich Company is?

It's very simple. I filed it
where it belongs, under "R."

- Goodrich under "R"?
- That's right.

Good and rich means well-off, and
who do you know that's well-off?

- Rockefeller.
- That's right.

So I filed it under "R."

I should have fired you
months ago, but I can't.

It would take me years to
find out where you keep things.

- Where's your shorthand book?
- I didn't bring it.

You didn't? And why not?

I didn't know you wanted
to give me dictation.

Of course not. I'm just lonely.

I invited you in here
because I want to dance.

All right, Mr. Clyde.

Will you get that shorthand
book before I go crazy?

Yes, Mr. Clyde. I don't know
why you get upset so easily.

Silly man, gets himself upset
for no reason at all. Let's see.

Where could I have put that notebook?
Gee, I must finish that some day.

Let's see now. I took
a letter on Monday...

Oh, it rained Tuesday. That's it.

- Hiya, Chicken.
- Hello, Al, honey.

Got terrific news for you. Got Steve
booked to sing at Coney Island tonight.

Al, that's wonderful.

Not only that, but have opened a little
office, and the boys are living with me.

Chicken, am really rolling now.

Al, I always knew you'd succeed.

I just can't wait to hear all
the wonderful things people say...

- about you after you're dead.
- Thanks, Chicken.

Now, since the kid will be
a little nervous tonight...

and since he seems
to be stuck on Jane...

will naturally make things
smoother all around...

if Jane was to show up with
you at Coney Island tonight.

Well, that's a cinch.
Jane has no place to go.

- Just pick us up at 8:00.
- Great.

- How about a little kiss for good luck?
- Sure, Al.

Miss Peterson, do you
mind if I interrupt?

I'm sorry, but I can't
kiss anybody but Al.

Mr. Clyde, why are you lying
there, kicking your feet?

Irma, I've got the most wonderful news.

Jane, I laid out all your things, because
the boys will be here any minute...

to pick us up, and we
don't want to be late.

- Late for what?
- Al's gotten Steve a tryout...

at Coney Island, and we're
going out there to root for him.

Coney Island? Are you kidding?

Take a look at this.

Three weeks' salary.

And where do you think
your little roommate...

Jane Stacey, is going tonight?

Well, to the Stork Club,
dancing to the smooth rhythms...

of Xavier Cugat and his orchestra.

- And guess with whom?
- Xavier Cugat?

No, honey, with no one else but
my boss, Richard Rhinelander.

Irma, he's falling for
me like a ton of bricks.

Jane, Steve will be so disappointed.

Al told him you were coming, now
you're scaring like a Welsh rabbit.

I know you understand, honey.
Now, look, I've got to hurry...

because I told him I'd meet
him at the Plaza Bar at 7:30.

Hi, Al.

Kids, let's not stand
around. Let's get on the ball.

Tonight's the night. Come on,
Jane, how's about getting dressed?

Time is money. Have rented the
boys tuxedos on an hourly basis.

Don't want to stand around
and eat up the profits.

Jane's not going with us, Al.
She's going to the Stork Club.

The boss came through already, huh?

Yes, I am going out with
Mr. Rhinelander. Do you mind?

I think a girl can go where she wants
to without everybody inquiring...

into her business and staring at
her as though she were a criminal.

I'm hungry.

Look, boys, you better get down
there and go over your music.

Chicken and I will be
there in time for the show.

- You fellows got cab fare?
- No.

Here.

Here are the directions
how to get there.

Al...

Al, if you say one
thing about Jane, I'll...

She's none of the
things you're thinking.

I wouldn't trust that dame any more
than I would my own personal check.

How could she do this? Demoralizing
my star on his opening night?

- She'll hear you.
- I do not care if she does.

But, Al, Jane's ambitious, and
this is a great opportunity for her.

After all, how often does a girl
meet a millionaire with money?

A millionaire with money?

Chicken, you really think Jane has
a chance with that Rhinelander guy?

Of course.

Might have a thought there, Chicken.

If Jane could land this guy, we, as
her first dependents, must benefit.

We might cook up a little deal.

But only if it's legitimate,
and he knows about it.

Well, naturally, Chicken,
naturally. Got a new angle.

If I could talk to the guy
for about five minutes...

Tell me, what time does the
sucker... Richard arrive here?

He isn't coming here. Jane's
meeting him at the Plaza Bar at 7:30.

Meeting a man at a bar?
She's gonna ruin everything.

- What do you mean, Al?
- Will explain.

- Chicken, do you think of Jane as a sister?
- Many times.

Good. Then that makes
her my sister-in-law.

Ain't gonna have anybody in my
family running around like that.

- Must get to a phone.
- But we have a phone.

The Professor.

Hello? Want to talk to
Mr. Rhinelander, please.

- Okay, Chicken, get on the phone.
- But I don't know what to say.

Just say you're calling
for Miss Jane Stacey.

She's been delayed, she's only half-dressed,
and it would take a load off her mind...

if you would pick her up at her
house instead of at the bar. Got it?

Got it word for word. Hello.

Just to play it safe,
let me have it back.

She would like you to pick her up here
because she's half-dressed, half-loaded...

- and would be a very easy pickup.
- Hold it, Chicken.

Forget what I said. Just
invite the guy straight.

- Yes?
- Hello.

Miss Jane Stacey asked
me to give you a message.

She wants you to pick
her up at her apartment...

at 185, 73rd Street...

at 7:00.

- All right. I'll be there.
- Goodbye.

- He's coming, Al.
- Great, Chicken.

- Now, got anything to drink at your place?
- We have milk.

Milk! Chicken, this guy's a
multimillionaire, a blue blood.

He's used to the best.

I'll go out and get a
couple of bottles of beer.

- Chicken, stop clowning around.
- I'm sorry, Al.

Irma, will you see who it is?

You'll have to go. I'm
making my eyes up to sparkle.

All right. It's probably Mrs. O'Reilly.

Mrs...

- I beg your pardon, Madam.
- Mr. Rhinelander.

- Miss Stacey?
- What are you doing here?

Well, I was told to pick you up at
7:00, but I'm very sorry if I'm early.

Why, Jane, I don't think it's very nice
of you to keep your guest in the hall.

- Won't you please come in, Mr. Rhinelander?
- Yes, thank you.

Why, Jane, aren't you
going to introduce us?

Yes. Mr. Rhinelander, this
is my roommate, Irma Peterson.

Miss Peterson, how do you do?
Miss Stacey told me about you.

- I understand you write.
- Of course, and I read very well, too.

Well, I do have a little
trouble with my spelling.

I beg your pardon?

- Irma has a great sense of humor.
- Yeah.

My sparkle.

Mr. Rhinelander, if you'll just make
yourself comfortable, I won't be a minute.

Jane, you go ahead and get dressed...

and I'll have a nice, long
chat with Mr. Rhinelander.

- No, darling, I need you in the bedroom.
- But who'll stay with Mr. Rhinelander?

Who called for the
beer-man? Well, company.

What a delightful surprise.

Mr. Rhinelander, that's my fianc�, Al.

- How do you do?
- Well, nice knowing you, Richard.

There, Jane, now you
don't have to worry.

Richard has someone to chat
with, and I can help you dress.

Don't things work out wonderfully?

Yes, wonderfully. Wonderfully. If
you'll excuse us, Mr. Rhinelander.

Oh, that's...

Be right with you, Rich.

Irma Peterson, this is
some of yours and Al's work.

Jane, we only wanted
to save your reputation.

- Meeting a man at a bar.
- Save my reputation?

Letting him come to this awful rooming
house and see me looking like a savage.

But think how much nicer you'll
look to him after you get dressed up.

- Oh, Irma.
- Don't be upset.

He's comfortable in there, and I
know he'll get along with Al famously.

Famously? If Richard reaches for his
wallet, he'll shake hands with Al.

- Sounds good?
- Well, frankly, Mr...

Friend, just call me, Al.

Well, frankly, Al, you see...

my business is stocks and bonds. I
know very little about show business.

Safest investment in the world.

It hasn't been for me on several occasions.
You see, I'm fairly conservative...

but they nicked my mother on a couple of
turkeys, and, naturally, I'm a little leery.

Friend, understand your attitude.
Will not press the point.

- Thank you.
- But about the other matter.

Now, look, since you say Jane has set
her heart on going to Coney Island...

I don't mind accepting your invitation,
because I've never been there.

You'll love it. If you're anything like
me, you get bored with those fancy places.

Yeah.

Well, I'm ready. Shall we go?

Yes, we'd better get started.
It's a long drive to Coney Island.

Coney Island?

Why, sure, Al told me
it's your favorite spot.

And I'd like to go. Is it all right?

Coney Island. Yes, yes.
If you'd really like to go.

Sure, I think it might be fun.

I'm so pleased I could die.

Ladies first.

- My hat.
- Al swung it.

That's the way I'd like
to see Al, swinging.

I can't understand that Mr. Ubang.

Who does he think he is,
keeping two big artists waiting?

Take it easy. Stop using
that lamp to get a suntan.

- You wanna get electrocuted?
- I'm only doing it because I'm nervous.

And don't tell me not to be.

All temperamental artists
before an opening are nervous.

- Mr. Laird?
- That's me. Mr. Ubang?

- Yeah. Pleased to know you.
- Glad to know you.

I'm Seymour.

Mr. Laird, my brother over
at the Gypsy Tea Room...

said that you're a very fine singer.

- Well, I do the best I can.
- Don't be modest. I'm great, Mr. Ubang.

We're all set to go to work tonight.
The team of Seymour and Steve.

Before we start, there's
one thing I have to know.

- Where's the money?
- Seymour.

Just a minute. Just a minute,
please. Are you a team?

Certainly, didn't your
brother tell you about me?

Yes. Yes, he did tell me about you.

Well, Mr. Laird, this
is a tryout, you know.

You'll probably do about two numbers.

- Fine.
- How about me? How long do I work?

You work the whole evening.

- The whole evening?
- Yes, throughout.

Wow, Mr. Ubang, I'm glad
to see you know good talent.

- Fortunately, I have enough material.
- Yeah. I'm...

Would you like to see
some of my impersonations?

I do Barry Fitzgerald. Watch this one.

Father O'Malley, I'd like for you to
know that there's no possible way...

- Come on.
- Lf you don't like that, I can do seals.

Watch this. A male seal. A female seal.

A male and a female seal.

A baby seal.

- Let's go to a dressing room, please.
- All right.

Mr. Ubang, there's a third
party here. What about me?

- Do you like the way I'm dressed?
- Oh, no, you need something else.

Well, what time does the show start?

Mr. Laird will start in about an
hour, but you start right away.

Well, I'm ready. Where's my public?

They'll be clamoring
for you in a few minutes.

Where am I gonna put that car?

Where am I gonna put that...
I'm coming. I'm coming.

So this is the public
that's clamoring for me?

Never mind your public. Park the car.

All right, I hear you.

Watch it, fellow.

Look, Al, there's Seymour's
twin brother parking the car.

I ain't got no twin
brother. It's me, Seymour...

and what's happening to me
shouldn't happen to a dog...

a big one. A little
one couldn't handle it.

Well, let's go in, shall we?
We don't want to miss the show.

Certainly not. Park the car, son.

Don't give me any of
that "park the car" stuff.

- Don't be a big man with me, Al.
- Please, I'm going to miss the show.

I'm supposed to be the show. Half
at least. Steve and me are a team.

To me this is not equal billing.

Just be patient, Seymour.
Your time will come.

Remember, Rome was not built in a day.

I'm standing out here freezing,
and this guy gives me proverbs.

- Park the car!
- Park the car!

I knew you were going to
say that. Listen to me, Al...

Take it easy, Seymour. On the next
job, you will be the main feature.

Steve will be nothing.

That's the way I like to hear you
talk. Remember, I am a great actor.

Know it, son. Know it. In
the meantime, park the car.

That's what I say, park the car.

What, do you two guys have a one-track
mind? Park the car. I'll park the car.

You blow your whistle.
Let me worry about the car.

Why do you push? Are
you crazy or something?

It's nice of you to come
down for the opening show.

What happened, slumming?

Al and Irma shanghaied me.

All the time, I thought
you came down to see me.

It's only powder.

I thought it was a little
gold dust that had brushed off.

- I thought you wanted to dance?
- Okay, I'll be good.

Rich, my boy, let me put
another head on that champagne.

No, wait a minute, Al.
I think I've had enough.

I don't want to wake up in the morning,
scratching my head way out to here.

Don't worry, Mr. Rhinelander, with
your money, you can get a hat any size.

You get it? Ain't that rich?

You know what? I think I'm gonna
relax and just have a lot of fun.

Missed it.

You seem to have been doing
all right while we were dancing.

- I'm just helping Richard to relax.
- And am I relaxing!

Thank you, Mr. Rhinelander, for
the use of your dancing partner.

Not at all, just call me Richard.

Come over here and
have a drink. Come on.

No, thanks just the same,
but I've got to go to work.

You gotta work. All right.

Ladies and gentlemen, in
line with our policy...

of bringing you the best of
entertainment, we present Steve Laird.

I was once a melancholy sad one

Nothing seemed to be worth a whit

Now this melancholy
one is such a glad one

And my lamp of love is lit

You're it

See it in your smile
I hear it in your sigh

That we have found a
feeling Higher than high

My own

my only, my all

Kindled by your kiss The
warmth of your embrace

The luster of the
lovelight Lightin' your face

My own

my only

my all

Knock on wood As well I should

For all that you're making of me

Never thought you'd love me

But you do, you do

And when I look up at the stars

And ask them all what's new

They join me in the
answer "Darling it's you"

My own, my only

my all

- Terrific, ain't he, Rich?
- Yeah, he's great.

- What do you think, Jane?
- He's just another singer.

My wife left her handkerchief in
the glove compartment of my car.

It's that green sedan, back
against the wall. Get it, please?

Yes, sir.

These convertibles never stand up.

Here's a toast to the most

romantic intention

It's that art of the heart

Most worthy of mention

So pay attention

Here's to love Here's to love

Here's to all that love can stand for

It's a wishful wonderland for just you

Here's to love Here's to love

There's a magic touch about it

And you're nothing much
without it It's true

It's the feeling lovers swear by

Whereby they celebrate

Those who find it thereby

Are feeling only great

And lately I kind of sigh

When I see you smiling by

Is this love that's growin'

Yes, it's love, it's showing

Here's to love

Here's to life with you

Here's to love Here's to love

That's a thing for jerks and rabbits

Gets you in the darndest habits

It's bad

Here's to love Nah, love

Makes you feel you're short on plasma

I can feel the same with asthma

it's sad

It's like sweet cream sour turning

Jelly on your moustache

And when it starts you burning

You wind up just an ash In the fireplace

I'd rather sigh Over
hot corned beef on rye

Who wants love? I'm lazy

Who needs love? Who's crazy?

Here's to love Here's to life

Alone

It's a summer night in Paris

Fiesta in San Jose

A 'andsome tweed by 'Arris

The road to Mandalay

So lately I kind of sigh

When I see you smiling by

Is this love that's growing

Yes, it's love it's showing

Here's to love Here's to life

With you

He's wonderful.

Richard, don't you
think we'd better go now?

No, Jane, we've still got
time for another round...

another round, another
round, haven't we?

Sure. Jane, we were just getting
around to discussing a little deal.

Yeah. Say, I've got a wonderful idea.

Let's all go up to my place
afterwards for a nightcap, huh?

Terrific. Terrific.

Well, I think that would be...

No, thanks. I have a headache, I guess.

Well, good night, Al.

Well, okay. Be talking to you, Rich.

Come on, Chicken.

Wonderful people.

You know, I think Irma's not
only sweet and brilliant...

but Al is as honest as the day is long.

- Wonderful people.
- Just dropped by to say good...

When did he trade the
eyes for the glass ones?

Don't be silly. Mr. Rhinelander
is not drunk. He's just resting.

Really? It's been a pleasure
meeting you, Richard.

- Well, it's been a pleasure
meeting you, Al. - Al?

Jane, are you sure he's
able to drive you home?

Drive her home? Why, the way I
feel, I could drive her to Cleveland.

Let's go.

Well, that's me, never a
date but always a chauffeur.

This is it.

- Be careful with him, Steve.
- Be careful of him?

What about me?

Go on, Steve, get up.

No, make him get up.

Come on, now.

I'd like to see you
carry him for a while.

You'll have to excuse us now.

- Jane?
- Out here.

- He's all wrapped up and tucked away.
- Thanks, Steve.

You know, given half a
chance, I'm an obliging guy.

It's beautiful up here, isn't it?

- It's just like I always
dreamed it would be. - Yeah.

He seems to like you, too.

You see, Steve, it's like I told
you up on the roof at our place.

These are the things that I want...

- It's pretty.
- My mother left it to me.

I wouldn't want you to think
that I was a gold digger...

but it's just a question of wanting
something and then going after it.

And if you're figuring on
someday getting married...

then you might as well figure on
marrying somebody instead of nobody.

- You know?
- Yeah.

I don't mean that a girl
should marry for money, exactly.

Of course not.

But what's wrong with a girl, maybe,
falling in love with a guy that's...

got it, you know?

And don't tell me that it's harder to fall
in love with a wealthy guy than it is...

with a poor guy, because that's silly.

Isn't that silly?

It's just too silly to even talk about.

So that's why I figure that maybe
someday Richard and I could be...

Could be...

Steve, don't. Please, just
stop that. Just go away.

- Jane, I love you.
- No, Steve.

It's not enough.

Sorry, but that's my best offer.

Richard, I'm leaving. Are you all right?

Miss Stacey.

Well, I'm gonna have
to give you a raise.

- I've never had a secretary this efficient.
- But I...

- What is wrong, Seymour?
- What is wrong?

Look at my name. Look at
the size of my printing.

I don't know whether it says
"Seymour" or "no smoking. "

Gives you a mysterious air, son.
Now, don't start complaining.

Things are breaking fine.

You and Steve have got a lovely home
here. And Jane, through Richard...

has fixed it for Steve to meet Ralph
Winston, the big Broadway producer.

- Ralph Winston? What about me?
- Your time will come, son.

Got to hold you back a little.
Don't want to push you too much.

- Save you for a rainy day.
- Rainy day?

I got some news for you, Al.
I get hungry in clear weather.

Okay, son. Am going to level with you.

Am man who believes
in dealing above board.

Seymour, has anyone ever told
you that you have a tragic face?

Tragic face? You listen to
me, Al, you worry about yours.

Don't mean it that way, friend.

You have a certain dramatic quality
in your expression, and I think...

with a little practice,
you can become a fine actor.

And that's where the money is. Today,
that's what they need, legitimate actors.

How do I become legitimate?

Well, it takes practice, my boy.

Now there's the mirror.
Take a look at yourself.

Now, if you notice, you have
deep expression in your eyes...

and a very sensitive chin.

All the qualities of
a legitimate actor...

maybe even a great lover.

- Yeah, but isn't my voice too high?
- Not necessarily.

You can make love to tall girls.

What do I do to do what
you said I should do?

First thing, you've got
to practice speaking.

Now, let's take some
dramatic sentence like...

"You say you love me, but you
don't even know I'm alive. "

You say you love me, but you
don't even know. I'm alive?

No, no. Mustn't leave any opening for
doubt. Make it a definite statement.

You say you love me, but you
don't even. No, I'm alive.

Now, that's closer,
kid. Keep practicing.

You say you know me, and
ain't it lovely to be alive?

You say you love me, and I've loved you.
Living and loving. Is that grand? No.

Why? I don't know.

- Yes?
- A Mr. Steve Laird is here.

Send him right in, please.

Al said you wanted to see me.

Steve, isn't it wonderful?

Mr. Rhinelander has arranged
for you to meet Ralph Winston...

the Broadway producer.
Aren't you pleased?

You don't have to toss me a bone by
having him fix up a letter for me.

- I don't go for that kind of a payoff.
- That's not true.

I don't play angles, Jane.

Yes?

Richard, I've changed my mind.

If you still want me to meet
your mother for dinner tonight...

I'd be more than pleased.

Tonight, over this same station,
it's your Lucky Jackpot Program...

with a grand prize of $50,000
worth of merchandise...

so be sure you're home.

Don't worry. I won't
go anyplace tonight.

I'm sorry, but... Hello, Al, honey.

Al, you're all out of breath.

You shouldn't let yourself get that
way, because breath is good for you.

Look, Chicken, came here for
comfort, not to be analyzed.

And shut that doggone radio off.

- Al, what's the matter? Is anything wrong?
- Wrong?

Chicken, saw a pot of gold
at the end of a rainbow.

Just when I'm about to
grab it, rainbow disappears.

- Now, haven't even got a pot.
- Al, you always have me.

You have something to eat,
and you'll feel better.

Am almost too depressed to eat.

And it's all that Jane's fault.

She'll hear you.

Don't care if she does.

First, I get that Richard blind,
so he'll appreciate my proposition.

She drags him away.

Then when he finally comes through for
me, she has to have a fight with Steve...

and he walks out and goes
back to the orange juice stand.

I'm so sorry, Al.

Tell you, Chicken, if
that Jane wasn't a dame...

and I was in better condition,
I'd haul off and slug her.

But, Al, everything's fine.

Jane's in there getting dressed
to meet Richard's mother tonight.

His mother.

Chicken, this puts a
whole new complexion on it.

It does?

Why, this is the greatest
thing that ever happened.

I got a millionaire
brother-in-law!

Bless that Jane. She's a sweet
kid, the salt of the earth.

But, Al, you know what worries me? I
wonder if Jane really loves Richard.

After all, money
doesn't bring happiness.

Chicken, the guy who said that
is still seeing his psychiatrist.

Got to run along.

Got to get a hold of Steve and
convince him that he can go places...

if he'll forget Jane
and leave her to Richard.

What do you want me to do, Al?

Nothing, Chicken, absolutely nothing.

You don't have to worry. I'm
very good at doing nothing.

Great, Chicken, because if you meddled
in this, our marriage could be delayed...

conservatively speaking,
years and years.

Will be back for supper.

Jane, want me to help you get dressed?

Jane?

Janie, what's wrong?

Nothing, Irma. Nothing.
I'll be all right.

Tell me all about it. You
can think of me as a mother...

but then don't go around
telling anybody my age.

Irma, all my life I've wanted
to marry a millionaire...

and now, when I finally got one
and I'm ready to reel him in...

I have to fall in love with a guy who
hasn't even got enough money for bait.

You mean Steve.

- Gee, what're you gonna do?
- I don't know, honey. I just don't know.

My heart's got ahold of my head,
and it's shaking it by the throat.

Honey, you really are in a mess.

Excuse me, Mrs. Rhinelander, there's
a Miss Peterson asking to see you.

Miss Peterson? I don't know
any Miss Peterson, Henry.

She says it's in regard to Miss Jane
Stacey, Mr. Rhinelander's secretary.

Show her in, Henry.

Mrs. Rhinelander will see
you now, Miss Peterson.

Thank you.

Wait a minute.

- Excuse me.
- Miss Peterson?

Yes, I'm the roommate
of your son's secretary.

I see. Won't you sit down?

Thank you.

My, if you'll excuse the expression,
you're the spitting image of Richard.

Except that he shaves.

Thank you, I think.

- Would you care for some tea?
- No, thank you.

- A cocktail?
- No, thank you. Gum?

- Not right now.
- Cigarette?

Thank you. For Al.

Mrs. Rhinelander, I'll
come right to the point.

Now, you're a woman, and I'm a woman...

so I think we should discuss
this matter as man to man.

I beg your pardon?

I don't know if you know
it, but my roommate...

a Jane Stacey, works for your son.

I'm learning.

Naturally, since she's a
girl and he's a fellow...

you can't take dictation
all day. Opposites attract.

You understand, don't you?

You mean the relationship between my son
and his secretary is more than business.

It's a pleasure to know you're
as sophisticated as I am.

You see, I know all about life,
because I'm practically engaged.

Well, congratulations.

You see, Jane has one
terrible fault. She's...

- I can't even say it.
- What is she, a neurotic?

Her religion has nothing to do with it.

It's just that your son has so much money
that she is drawn to him like a maggot.

A maggot?

Of course, I don't blame Jane
for being blinded by gold...

- because you know how it glitters.
- Oh, yes.

But I don't think it's right
for her to marry Richard...

just so she can get the
alimony so she can marry Steve.

Steve?

Yes, that's her other boyfriend,
the one she really loves.

Who, Al, Steve, or Richard?

Please, Mrs. Rhinelander,
that would be bigamy.

I just don't know what to say.

The problem's yours. I just
thought I'd tell you everything...

so you'd know what to
do, so I'll tell you.

I'd just tell Richard to forget
all about Jane. Goodbye, I'm off.

No more, thank you. You were
most generous the first time.

- Henry.
- Yes, madam.

- Short grapefruit juice.
- Right.

Seymour. Fill it up.

Fill it up. What's the matter with you?

If you ain't gonna smile, it's
not a pleasure to work with you.

- Dry up.
- What kind of an attitude is that to take?

Just because you lost your dame...

- you think the world is coming to an end.
- Shut up.

Well, do you have to walk
around with a face like that?

You gonna shut up or not?

I can talk if I wanna.
This is a free country...

and I got a perfect
right to squawk, too.

Yesterday, I was on the road to
becoming a star. Now I'm back at this.

I didn't mind squeezing oranges and lemons,
but the boss had to put in grapefruits.

What's gonna happen when
he puts in watermelons?

I won't have a hand
left. I'll have a paddle.

- Seymour.
- What?

That'll keep you quiet.

- Steve? Gee, Steve, I'm glad I found you.
- Why?

Excuse me.

Steve, Jane sent me. She's
crying her heart out for you.

- That's not the way Al told it to me.
- Don't pay any attention to Al.

Look, Steve, I know
Jane. We're like sisters.

Of course, we're not under the
same skin, but we're very close.

- She's crazy about you, Steve.
- But she likes Park Avenue better.

No, she broke up with Richard. She sent me
to tell you she wants to see you tonight.

- You're not kidding?
- No.

You come to the house
tonight and find out.

When you get married, you can
name your first child after me.

Of course, if it's a boy, you'll
have to call it Mr. Peterson. Goodbye.

- Miss Stacey?
- Yes?

I'm Mrs. Rhinelander.

- Richard's mother?
- Yes.

Oh, I...

- Won't you come in?
- Thank you.

- Won't you sit down?
- Thank you.

Now, Miss Stacey, I'll
come right to the point.

I believe you have a certain Miss
Peterson living here with you.

You can imagine, Miss
Stacey, how horrified I was...

- when your roommate told me...
- Jane, I fixed...

Fixed... It's the wrong apartment.

I live on another block.

Irma, my little pigeon, you're
trembling. What's the matter?

Professor, I'm sick.
Have you got an ice bag?

Certainly. You think Mrs.
O'Reilly gives me a deep freeze?

We'll take the bottle of milk
off, you'll wear on your head.

Well, that clarifies matters.

Now, Miss Stacey, knowing
Richard and having met you...

I can see why he's interested in you.

But I understand from
your roommate that he's...

Well, as I was saying...

I understand from your roommate that
there's another young man, Steve, involved.

- Well...
- But naturally you find Richard more...

- attractive because of his money.
- Mrs. Rhinelander...

are you trying to imply that I got
the job as Richard's secretary...

so that I could marry my wealthy boss?

- That's ridiculous.
- Not at all...

- and I know.
- How?

Miss Stacey, I was
Richard's father's secretary.

- But you married him, didn't you?
- Yes.

But I was in love with him.
Good night, Miss Stacey.

Irma? Irma Peterson,
I know you're up there.

Come down here this
minute. Do you hear me?

Well, Jane, what's new?

- There are a few things I want to talk...
- Jane, can't you see I'm sick?

Jane, I'm sick. I feel terrible.

Don't give me that sick act, because
by the time I'm through with you...

you'll have a relapse.

How dare you interfere in my
life and call on Mrs. Rhinelander?

But, Jane, I was only
trying to help you.

You've been helping me ever since we
moved in together, and pretty soon...

I'll be beyond help.

What can I say after I say I'm sorry?

Well, I'm sorry I ever
moved in here with you.

Irma Peterson, listen to me.

You and I are through. Our
friendship is at an end.

- But Jane...
- And don't "but Jane" me.

I'm going out with Richard tonight if
he'll still see me, and when I get back...

if you're still living here,
I'm going to move to the YWCA.

But, Jane, are you a member?

I'll join.

Soaking wet outside. Chicken...

how could you buy a crazy hat like that?

- Oh, Al.
- Chicken, you're crying. What's happened?

- You didn't lose your job?
- No, Al.

You had me scared for a minute.

Chicken, don't worry about anything
because our future has never been brighter.

As a matter of fact, with
Jane about to hook Richard...

might be a double wedding.

Al, you don't understand.

Jane doesn't want me to
live with her anymore.

What? Jane refuses to
live with the sweetest...

most wonderful girl in the world?

Why?

Just because I went to Mrs. Rhinelander
to break up Jane and Richard.

You went to Mrs. Rhinelander?

Why, you...

Chicken, didn't I
tell you to do nothing?

- But I thought...
- With what? Who told you to think?

- But Jane really loves Steve.
- Who's talking about love?

Ain't bad enough I
lost my meal ticket...

you had to burn down the
bank. Well, this is the end.

A wife is supposed to help her
husband in sickness and health.

I'm sick of you, and if I stick
around, you'll ruin my health...

so you and I are through.
Our engagement is off.

Here's the engagement
ring you bought me.

Irma?

Irma?

Stop playing games,
honey. I didn't mean it.

Come back in. Jane loves you.

Are you sure? Because I just
got a phone call from my mother.

Well, that was just some of
Irma's work. She thought that...

I don't care what Irma thought. I
don't care what my mother thinks.

Look, Jane. I'm only interested
in what you think about me.

Richard, need you ask?

Yes, because I want to find out about
this fellow, Steve. Where does he fit in?

- He doesn't.
- Are you sure?

Yes, I'm sure. I'm through with him.

- I'll never see him again.
- Oh, Jane.

I know this is a little fast, but
ever since you came to work for me...

I've been wanting to tell you that...

Jane, honey.

- Steve, what are you doing here?
- I'm so glad you sent for me.

That's cozy, but what about me?

- You?
- Yes, me.

I happen to have a
date with Jane tonight.

- What goes on here?
- Yes, Jane, what does go on here?

- Well, I just don't know what to say.
- Well, I know what to do.

- Steve, how dare you hit Richard?
- It was easy.

- Richard, how dare you hit Steve?
- It was simple.

What goes on here?
Steve, my favorite client.

Been looking all over for you. Demand
to know who started this trouble.

I'm glad you asked that, Al. You did.

Richard, are your teeth all right?

Steve, what did he do to your eye?

Jane, forget them two
guys. We got real trouble.

- What's the matter?
- Read it yourself.

"To whom it may concern: I
have ruined everybody's life...

"so now I am going to ruin my own.

"P.S. Please do not drag the river
for my body as I have hung myself.

"Guess who? Irma Peterson. "

Al, this is terrible.

Well, don't just sit
there. Call the police.

Only as the last resort. It isn't that
I've got anything against the police.

They're all right as far as they
go. Trouble is, every time they go...

they take some of my friends with
them. Now let's not blow our tops.

Al, we've got to do something.
If you don't care, I do.

If I don't care? Jane, how
can you say a thing like that?

Why, if anything happens to
my Chicken, I'll go crazy.

Lord, if you bring back
my Irma, I promise you...

I'll get a job.

What am I saying?

What am I saying?

Hello?

Janie, darling, take it easy.

After all, the police
are doing all they can.

Irma, my wonderful little Irma.

Al, it's all your fault.
You used to yell at her.

Don't pin no rap on me, Jane. Your
vocal cords got plenty of workout, too.

Yes, but I never meant it.

Never meant it, either. Love
Chicken. Love her dearly.

Just that she's so hard to understand.

You see, there's a thin line
between genius and insanity...

and the way that dame kept swinging back
and forth made a nervous wreck out of me.

But if could only see her
again, would never yell at...

- my Chicken no more.
- Maybe it's Irma.

- Hello.
- Oh, it's you.

Certainly, it's me. Hey, Steve...

- I came over to tell you we got fired.
- Fired?

Can't you work an orange
juice stand one night?

Well, not without you. Every time I had
to work the cash register, I hit five keys.

Shut up and sit down.
We have trouble here.

Irma committed suicide.

I wish I knew where
she was, I'd join her.

I didn't mean nothing. It's just
because we got fired. I feel bad, too.

I can't do nothing now. Everything...

Well, ladies and gentlemen, we're about
to call the winner of the mammoth...

$50,000-gift contest.

There goes the giant wheel, and
someone will be the lucky winner.

Our telephone operator is waiting
to call the lucky winner, who is...

Mrs. Hilda Klotz of Keokuk, Iowa...

the mother of 32 children.

Al was right.

Hold it, folks. Mrs. Klotz is
disqualified. She has no phone.

And there goes the wheel
again, and the call goes to...

Miss Irma Peterson of 185
West 73rd Street, New York.

I'll be right there.

The orchestra will play a short number
while our operator calls her home.

Taxi! Taxi!

Maybe it's the police. Hello, what?

- Irma Peterson?
- They found her.

My wonderful Chicken,
cannot wait to see her.

Shut up, Al. What are you saying?

You're trying to locate
Irma Peterson? Yes, I know.

Isn't this the police?
I don't understand.

What?

What's the name of what song?
The Lucky Jackpot Program?

How do you like that? They're
calling Chicken from the contest...

and she has to pick a moment
like this to knock herself off.

That dame never has no consideration.

- Hello, I'm sorry...
- Jane, look.

Tell them you're Irma Peterson.

Don't be ridiculous.
I'm going to hang up.

Never, not with $50,000 at stake.

Hello, I'm Irma Peterson.

What's that? Well, I'm a very
old woman. I have a heavy cold.

You want to know the name of
the song and who's singing it?

Just a moment. Anybody
ever hear that program?

Al, you mercenary monster, hang up.

Would you mind repeating
the question, please?

Well, the name of the
song you're playing is...

Don't rush me, young man.

Irma, darling.

- Buttons and Bows.
- It's Buttons and Bows. What?

Who's singing it?

Chicken, speak to me. It's your Al.

If you love me, tell them
who's singing the song.

Bing Crosby.

Chicken, we won! We won! We won!

Let me see now.

One of the airplanes, we can sell
to Joe for smuggling purposes.

As for the armored car,
Mushie has always wanted one.

Must make a fortune on this deal.

Ladies and gentleman, you can't imagine
the most incredible display of gifts.

This apartment is in a turmoil
and still the gifts keep coming in.

Here is an oxygen outfit. A
new tire, oil, another tire.

Excuse me, horsy.

Irma, honey, what's the matter?

Jane, save me. It's an octopus.

- It's a diving suit.
- Is it?

Will you please get dressed?
We've got to get to the church.

Where do you want me to put this, lady?

Nothing else goes in here.
Everything goes in the other room.

Now, will you please get out. You,
too, all of you. Come on out of there.

But I haven't finished my drapes.

I'm not interested in
your drapes. Just get out.

Well, for heaven's sakes.

Irma, please hurry.

Don't worry about me. I'll be a
bride before you can say "boo. "

I'm so nervous.

Well, while we're waiting,
we can have a short rehearsal.

- Without girls?
- It's quite simple.

The best men can act as
substitutes for the wives.

Yes, now, please take your
husbands' arms, ladies.

There, that's right. And
follow me to the altar.

Happy, Jane?

More than you'll ever
know, Steve, darling.

- This way, Chicken.
- Yes, Al, honey.

Let's try the phone again.

Just think, honey, in five
minutes, I'll be Mrs. Steve Laird.

And, after five years, I'll be
Mrs. Al... Oh, I'm so nervous.

Don't worry, honey, nothing
can happen to us now.

I was wrong.

Anything can happen if you
live with my friend Irma.