Original subtitles

[instrumental music]

[dramatic music]

[instrumental music]

[music continues]

[music continues]

Andrew: When I look at Chicago today

it's hard for me to realize that it is the same city

I knew when I was a boy.

All those skyscrapers...

that steel and concrete

those busy streets...

And the crowds.

We didn't have them.

In my day, life was more leisurely.

The women didn't wear anything on their faces then.

The men made up for it.

You weren't a substantial citizen

unless you wore a mustache.

I remember I grew one myself.

But somehow I guess I wasn't substantial enough.

[instrumental music]

[harmonica music]

[whistling]

I was living in a boarding house then.

Along with other young hopefuls.

[whistling]

Sunday was my big day.

It was my one chance for an outing.

Sometimes I'd pickup my friend Hickey.

His uncle, Mr. Oberkugen, was my boss.

We'd ride out to one of the parks to meet him.

[instrumental music]

Mr. Oberkugen was an unpredictable man on weekdays

but on Sunday he was always happy.

Nellie was his cashier, his accountant

and his secretary...

had been for 20 years.

They never married.

I used to wonder why.

Like all people in love

they were worried because I had no lady friend.

They tried to get me one,

but I had other plans.

♪ I hold her hand and she holds yours ♪

♪ And that's a very good sign ♪

♪ That she's my tootsy-wootsy ♪

♪ In the good old summertime ♪

♪ In the good old summertime ♪

♪ In the good old summertime ♪

♪ Strollin' through the shady lanes ♪

♪ With your baby mine ♪

♪ I hold her hand ♪

♪ And she holds yours ♪

♪ And that's a very good sign ♪

♪ That she's your tootsy-wootsy ♪

♪ In the good old summertime H'

Andrew: That Monday morning alarm meant back to work.

Some people hated that alarm, but not me.

I had something to get up for.

You see the post office would be open.

And that meant there might be a letter for me.

One of those very special letters.

[instrumental music]

Oh!

Oh, I beg your pardon, madam.

Well, I never...

Why don't you watch where you are going?

Here, I'll fix your hat for you.

No, that's not quite the right angle--

- Leave my hat alone. - Oh! Here's your umbrella.

I don't really know what happened.

Oh, here is your bag, madam.

[gasps]

Oh, I beg your pardon!

Oh, for heaven sakes.

- [grunts] Leave me alone. - Oh, I'm terribly sorry.

- Here's your hat. - Thank you.

- Something is missing? - Where's my--

- Bird! Here's your bird. - My bird...

Here we are, madame. I'm sorry.

- What? - Wrong bird.

- For heaven sake. - Here we are.

- Thank you. - I'll attach this.

I'm really terribly sorry about this.

- I was in such a... hurry. - Watch where you were going.

Reading a letter and I was...

Give me that. You are crushing my hat.

Oh, I am terribly sorry about this.

Here's your umbrella.

Thank you.

- Wait a minute. Wait a minute. - Here is your...

Where are you? Oh, oh, there, there you are. [chuckles]

Here is your... your hat. Your bird.

Is this your...

Here is your bag.

- Oh, wait a minute. - And an umbrella.

Parasol, I mean. Terribly sorry.

- Please, madam. I'm... - Please, madam?

Excuse me. Yes.

Here's your bird and here's your bag.

Now, I really got to go.

- Well, go. - I've gotta go to the office.

Look, here's my card.

That's where I work, see?

Now, you go buy yourself whatever I've ruined

and I'll be glad to pay for it.

- Alright? - Thank you very much.

- Goodbye. - Goodbye.

Wait a minute. Hey!

[instrumental music]

Andrew: I was head salesman at Mr. Oberkugen's

getting a good salary.

$15 a week.

- Well, good morning, Andy. - Morning, Nellie.

- Morning, Andy. - Morning, Hickey.

- Morning, Andy. - Morning, Rudy.

You are late. Mr. Oberkugen had to let us in.

I know, I know. See I got in a...

Come here a minute.

Sit down. I got another letter.

From the girl that advertised?

Yeah. Do you want to hear something nice?

Yes.

"Dear friend...

my heart was trembling

as I walked in to the post office

but there you were, lying in box 237.

I took you out of your envelope and read you...

read you right there, dear friend."

But I thought she wanted to correspond with you

on intellectual subjects.

Well, isn't that intellectual? Positively poetry.

Now, wait there's more.

"Are you short or tall?

Are your eyes blue or brown?

Don't tell me.

What does it matter, if our minds meet."

You're right. It is intellectual.

"There are so many wonderful things to write about

in this world of ours.

It would be wasting precious time

if we told each other the sordid details of daily lives,

so don't let us do it.

I agree with you when you say

it is happier to be dead.

To die for the beauty,

than to live for bread."

Did you say that?

Well, Ralph Waldo Emerson said it first.

[knock on door]

' Yes? _ Andy.

Mr. Oberkugen wants to see you right away.

Thanks, Nellie. How is he this morning?

Peaches and cream.

Oh, I hope so.

Mr. Oberkugen: But how many times must tell you?

That violin is priceless.

I'm sorry, Uncle Otto.

And don't call me Uncle Otto.

In the store, I'm Mr. Oberkugen.

- Yes, sir. - Yes, sir.

All I did was pluck his violin.

Just pluck...

That Dummkopf...

The Stradivarius, Stradivarius,

he-- he picks it like, like a mandolin.

[scoffs] It's all your fault.

If you had been here on time it wouldn't have happened.

I'm sorry, sir. I had a little accident

That is no excuse.

Everybody can have an accident.

An accident... Did you hurt yourself? Hm?

No. No, I didn't.

Good. I hate the dangerous bicycle.

Come.

I have something to show you.

I am sure you'll like it.

It is a surprise for the whole business.

Look.

I have a chance to buy a 100 of these from Kramer.

We can make a nice little profit, eh?

What do you think of it? I think it's great.

I am afraid it is not for us, Mr. Oberkugen.

Not for us? You have hardly looked at it.

I don't have to. It's a harp.

Not enough people play harps.

It's wonderful how quickly you can decide.

I have been in this business 20 years

and it took me an hour to decide I liked it.

But, you, professor...

Hickey. Hickey! Hickey!

- Hickey. - Yes, uncle... Mr. Oberkugen?

Miss Burke? Please.

Sir.

No. No.

Mr. Hansen!

Mr. Oberkugen: Mr. Hansen? - Yes sir?

Look at that, please.

What do you think of it?

Mr. Larkin, doesn't happen to like it.

I do.

But don't let me influence you.

I just want your honest opinion, huh?

That's all I want, your-- your honest opinion.

Oh, I think, it's wonderful, just wonderful.

Well, Mr. Larkin, have you changed your mind?

No, I still say they are not for us.

I agree with Andy.

Thank you. Thank you, that's all.

[instrumental music]

Now we're in for it.

Andrew: This was his way of soothing himself

when things went wrong.

[violin music]

But he was the only one who was soothed.

Hickey knew the way to hold his job.

[music continues]

[bell jingles]

Good morning, madam. May I help you?

- Oh, hello, miss... - Uh, Fisher.

Fisher. Ms. Fisher.

Wow. Looks like I ran up quite a bill, doesn't it?

- How much do I owe? - Oh, no.

I couldn't think of accepting anything from you.

- Really you must-- - No, I couldn't.

Really I couldn't.

- That's definite. - Well, my goodness.

This is a nice store.

Oh, thank you. We like it.

You have lovely things.

Maybe you'd let me buy you something else.

Is there anything here you'd like?

As a matter of fact, there is.

Oh, fine. How about...

No. H-- harmonica?

No? How about little piano?

- Music box? - No. I, uh... I want a job.

Oh, I'm sorry, I sold the last one yesterday.

Now, see here, Mr. Larkin, this is no joking matter.

That's why I was so furious today when you bumped into me.

I was all dressed up ready to go out and look for a job--

Yes, well, I am really sorry.

We just couldn't take anyone else on now.

It's the dull season.

But you haven't even heard my qualifications

I worked with Roberts Brothers,

and I worked at the Gregory music store.

They like me very much there.

They all said they'd be very happy to have me back.

Well, why don't you make them happy, huh?

Well, it's-- it's the dull season.

Yes. Well, I'm sorry,

I just couldn't take anyone else on now.

Good day.

Veronica: Just a minute.

- Do you own this store? - Oh, no, but--

Then I'd like to see the owner, please.

Oh, I wouldn't advise it.

He is in a very bad mood this morning.

I insist upon seeing the owner.

Look, I've been here for number of years now

and I know Mr. Oberkugen inside and out.

I know what his attitude would be.

I could tell you word for word exactly what he'd say.

- Ahem. - Now, will--

Mr. Larkin, just--just a moment, please.

Excuse me, please.

- Excuse me, madam. Veronica: Surely.

Come here.

So you know all about me?

You know exactly what I think even before I think of it.

Tch. Tch. Tch. You are not only a business genius

you are a mind reader.

- Mr. Oberkugen, I would-- - Never mind.

Good morning, madam.

- I'm Mr. Oberkugen. - How do you do, Mr. Oberkugen?

How do you do? Please have a seat.

Thank you.

I don't know about what, what the difficulty is

but at Oberkugen's there is no such word as-- as impossible.

What is it that you desire?

Oh, well, you see, Mr. Oberkugen,

I was at Gregory Brothers--

Mr. Oberkugen: Oh, I assure you we have much better merchandise.

Oh, no.

We have violins, we have flutes.

We have...

Isn't it wonderful? Something new. Look.

Some of our salesforce do not agree with me.

But I think it's charming.

I guarantee you didn't find anything as lovely as these

at Gregory's.

Well, I don't think you understand, Mr. Oberkugen.

You see, I worked at Gregory Brothers,

lam looking for job.

No.

Wait a minute, I play the piano and I can play the violin.

Wait-wait... You can play what you want, I have no time.

Good morning.

Why, why do you put me in a situation like that? Why?

I am sorry. But it wasn't my fault.

W-- whose fault was it? Mine?

Well, yes, I think it was.

What's the matter with you?

You feel to me like a son,

but every time you contradict me.

Whatever I say, you say no.

Why?

Alright, Mr. Oberkugen.

From now on, I'll say, "Yes, Mr. Oberkugen."

"Certainly, Mr. Oberkugen."

"Yes, Mr. Oberkugen."

[harp music]

- Mm-hm. - I'll take care of this.

Now, look there's no use your waiting here around.

As soon as there is an opening

you will be the first one to be called.

Now, tell me do do like it?

- Oh, yes. - Oh, you see?

Is it so hard to play?

No, anyone can learn.

And it is so romantic.

What's romantic about it?

Well, the soft rippling music and the way your hands.

It's the woman's point of view.

Hmm. Woman's point of view.

How much are you asking for it?

Well, I-- I thought of $75, hm?

Oh, yes, that's a bargain.

A bargain?

A real bargain.

It's a pretty harp, isn't it?

Yes, yes. It's very unusual.

I was really looking for a song.

Oh, may I help you, madam?

Here's a very popular song of the day.

A song? I knew you sang. I could tell by your voice.

Of course, for anyone who sings the harp is so flattering.

Your hands...

I have hardly any voice at all,

but if there's a number you'd like to hear.

How about this, madam? You might like it.

Lovely lyrics and all.

No, this.

"Dreamland."

Both: "Meet Me Tonight in Dreamland."

Could someone...

Yes. May I?

Thank you.

- Go to the piano. - Is it pretty?

Please, madam, have-- have a seat.

Of course, if you can't play, we will--

- I can play. - Surely. He-- he can play.

Sit down.

Now...

[instrumental music]

♪ Meet me tonight ♪

♪ In dreamland ♪

♪ Under the silv'ry moon ♪

♪ Meet me tonight in dreamland ♪

♪ Where love's sweet roses bloom ♪

♪ Come with the love light gleaming ♪

♪ In your dear eyes of blue ♪

♪ Meet me in dreamland ♪

♪ Sweet dreamy dreamland ♪

♪ There let my dreams ♪

♪ Come true ♪

♪ Meet me tonight in dreamland ♪

♪ Under the silv'ry moon ♪

♪ Meet me tonight in dreamland ♪

♪ Where love's sweet roses bloom ♪

♪ Come with the love light gleaming ♪

♪ In your dear eyes of blue ♪

♪ Meet me in dreamland ♪

♪ Sweet dreamy dreamland ♪

♪ There let my ♪

♪ Dreams ♪

♪ Come true N

[sighs] Lovely.

How is it much?

$99.50, reduced from $100.

- I'll take it. - Fine.

Could I have the sales book, please?

And your pencil.

Sure you would like my job too?

Not yet.

[instrumental music]

- Aunt Addie? Addie: In here, dear.

Oh.

Aunt Addie, I have a job.

- Position? - Whatever it is, I have it.

Veronica: Who is this? Addie: That's Jerome.

- Hello, baby. - Mrs. Spring's Jerome.

She had to go down and pay her gas bill.

Tell me, what kind of a position?

Well, it's in a music store

and the boss is a darlin'.

Any other gentlemen?

Oh, yes, there's... I think there are three of them.

Oh! Hand me that lace, dear?

Here. Which, this one?

There's the boss's nephew,

and then there's a Mr. Hansen.

Are they young men?

One of them is young man.

Mr. Larkin, he's the head salesman.

He's the one who didn't want to give me the...

position.

But anyway, I went over his head

and went to the boss and got the job.

I don't think he likes me at all.

Oh, I nearly forgot. I went by the post office.

There was another one of those letters in the box for you.

- It is there on the table. - Aunt Addie.

Oh, Aunt Addie, this makes my day perfect.

[instrumental music]

"Dear friend..."

"Dear friend..."

[instrumental music]

You don't eat, Mr. Larkin, why?

Oh, I've had enough, Joe. Thanks.

If you ask me, you're in love.

You think so?

I know. I know. She don't eat too.

Who?

He ask me, "Who."

All the time like this...

Then when you come in she...

Look.

I knew it, just like that.

[music continues]

[crowd applauding]

Just a minute.

- Hello. - Hello, that was fine.

- Oh, did you recognize it? - Sure.

That was the music you sent me last night.

I thought it might do for your audition.

Oh.

Haven't you sent your application in yet?

No, I'm afraid I haven't.

Oh, now don't let me down.

I was telling my lady friend about you only today.

Your... Your lady friend?

Yes. Yes, I was telling her

how you were gonna win the scholarship and go to Leipzig,

and how you're gonna be famous,

and that one day I'd be boasting

that I used to live in the same boarding house with you.

I... I never heard you speak about your lady friend before.

Really? Well, that's funny.

That's been going on for quite awhile.

I thought I'd told you.

Well, after all, why should you?

We never spoke about much but music, did we?

No, no, that's true.

[instrumental "Symphony No. 5"]

Well, I have to go.

Oh, about that scholarship

now, you better get busy on it.

Why, I haven't a chance to win.

Of course you have, if you put your mind to it.

Now, look, I'll bring you music every night.

I'll even get you a decent violin to play, how's that?

I've got a stake in your career, you know?

Alright, I'll send in the application tomorrow.

- Good girl. - Thanks.

[instrumental music]

Andrew: I often wondered if the girl I was corresponding with

was as wonderful as her letters.

September and October passed.

And I was still writing letters...

And still trying to sell those harps.

Do you think Eric would like that gramophone?

I don't know, but it is very pretty.

Pardon me, I-- I can't see very well without my glasses.

Can you tell me how much the charming little harp is?

Uh, $99.50.

Phew, $99.50?

You certainly get wonderful values here.

I wonder how Oberkugen can do this.

Well, if you don't know, Mr. Oberkugen, who does?

[instrumental music]

Well, good morning, Mr. Oberkugen.

Morning.

They look fine, the harps, eh.

I wish the customers thought so.

Oh, good morning, Uncle Otto... Mr. Oberkugen.

Morning.

Good morning, Mr. Oberkugen.

We're having a wonderful morning.

Yeah?

Yes, I just sold my third gramophone.

Good morning, Otto.

I've been looking over the bills

I think, we ought to attend to some of these right...

They shouldn't have let that there.

Mm-hm.

[chuckles] I love it.

Of all the instruments,

the harp is perhaps the most beautiful.

Look, the classic lines,

the mysterious tones...

It seems to come from the air.

It's wonderful.

Otto, you don't have to keep them, you know.

Kramer will take them back.

We are good customers.

We have given them a lot of business this year.

Now, all you have to do is to explain to him--

Wait, wait... Explain? Why? What should I explain?

But, Otto, you can see for yourself

we've had them for two months.

Nobody“ buy them.

- I'll call Kramer. - You shouldn't call.

- They will sell, I know. - But, Otto, they are--

Please give them time. This is my business.

Oh, very well. There's the bill for them.

I have done the best. I never saw such a man.

Stubborn.

$19.75 out of $20, please.

May I have your sales check, Miss. Fisher?

Certainly.

Well, let's see now, that's $241 worth of business

I've done already this morning.

Splendid.

So, you see, Mr. Larkin, you were wrong.

The shop could stand another sales person.

10, 20, 25.

You know, I think you're angry because I sold a harp

and you couldn't.

On the contrary, Miss. Fisher,

I'm delighted.

I only wish you could sell the other 99.

Who knows, I may. [chuckles]

- Thank you very much, madam. - Thank you.

Please come and see us again soon.

It's always nice to see you. I'll open the door for you.

- Oh, just a moment please. - Oh, yes, sir.

Could you tell me how this goes?

Oh, I'd be very glad to play it for you.

- Right over here. - Thank you.

This is a very popular song of the day

I think, you might like it.

[piano music]

♪ Put your arms around me honey ♪

♪ Hold me tight ♪

♪ Huddle up and cuddle up with all your might ♪

♪ Oh baby... N

Excuse me. Would you like a little help?

- Alright. - Fine.

- From the beginning? - Mm-hmm.

From the beginning.

I'll sing the verse.

Introduction, please.

Keep B Flat. Here we go.

[music continues]

♪ Night time am a-fallin' ♪

♪ Everything is still ♪

♪ And the moon am a-shinnin' from above ♪

♪ Cupid am a-callin' ♪

♪ Every Jack and Jill ♪

♪ It's just about the time for making love ♪

♪ Someone is a-waiting all alone for me ♪

♪ No more hesitating ♪

♪ I must go and see ♪

♪ How d'ye do dear ♪

♪ It's with you dear ♪

♪ That I long to be ♪

♪ Put your arms around me honey ♪

♪ Hold me tight ♪

♪ Huddle up and cuddle up ♪

♪ With all your might ♪

♪ Oh babe ♪

♪ Won't you roll them eyes ♪

♪ Eyes that ♪

♪ I just idolize ♪

♪ When they look at me ♪

♪ My heart begins to float ♪

♪ Then it starts a-rocking ♪

♪ Like a motorboat ♪

IOhoh ♪

♪ I never knew ♪

♪ Any bOY I

♪ Like you ♪

[piano music]

♪ All your might oh baby ♪

♪ Won't you roll 'em eyes ♪

♪ Eyes that I just idolize ♪

♪ Your eyes and when they look at me ♪

♪ My heart begins to float ♪

♪ Then it starts a-rocking like a motorboat ♪

IOhoh ♪

♪ I never knew any boy ♪

♪ Like you N

15 cents, please.

[violin music]

Dear friend...

[instrumental music]

Dear... friend...

[instrumental music]

Mm-hm. If only once you'd admit you'd made a mistake.

In all the years I've known you I'm yet to hear you say,

"I was wrong."

Alright. You'll hear me say it now.

- I was wrong. - Otto!

For 20 years, I have been wrong thinking I could marry

a woman who spies on me.

- A woman who spies at-- - Yes.

Spies on me.

Well, it looks that we're gonna have

a quiet Christmas, Mr. Oberkugen.

Does it?

I thought it did. I don't know...

Why he gives me a different answer

every time I ask him a simple question.

[violin music]

Good morning, Rudy.

Good morning, Andy.

[whistling]

Well, I'm glad someone is happy.

Oh, Rudy. This is gonna be a big day in my life.

Say, Rudy. You mind if I ask you a personal question?

No, go ahead, Andy.

Suppose, a fellow like me wants to get married.

- Oh, congratulations. - No. No.

I said suppose. For instance, suppose I wanna

get a three room flat, you know, one of those things with a,

with a bedroom and a dining room and a living--

Dining room. Andy, what you want a dining room for?

Well, where will we eat?

In the kitchen. You get yourself a big kitchen.

- Where will we entertain? - Entertain?

Well, what are you? An ambassador? Listen, Andy.

If a friend is really a friend, he comes after dinner.

Yeah, but suppose after we get married...

Gee, I haven't even asked her yet.

- Well, who? - The girl I was t--

Oh, that young lady you were corresponding with on intell--

Yes, that's the one.

Well, anyway, after a while, we got around the subject of love.

On a very intellectual plane of course.

Yeah, well, how else can you do in a letter.

So, to...

So anyway, tonight, we're gonna meet for the first time

at Heinkel's restaurant. Isn't that wonderful?

Tell me, Andy. How will you know her?

Oh, she's gonna carry a carnation and a book of poetry.

Very appropriate. And you?

I'm gonna wear one in my buttonhole.

Oh. [chuckles]

Rudy, she's the most wonderful girl.

She's got such high ideals, such delicacy of feelings...

Veronica: Good morning.

I'll tell you more later. Here comes the duchess.

[humming]

Someone else is happy today.

- Good morning, Mr. Hansen. - Good morning, Ms. Fisher.

- Ms. Fisher. - I know, I'm late.

Oh, no, no, no. About that shirtwaist you wore yesterday.

You know the yellow one with the green dots.

No. As usual, you're wrong again, Mr. Larkin.

It was a green one with the yellow dots.

And everyone else seemed to think it was very becoming.

And as I recall, I've never mentioned anything about

those neckties that you wear.

And believe me, Mr. Larkin,

if you think I couldn't, you're crazy.

So, just leave my shirtwaist alone.

It's none of your business.

Mr. Oberkugen seems to think it is.

Oh, that's right. I'm working under you. Hmm?

Oh, from now on, I'll telephone you every morning and tell you

just exactly what I'm going to wear in detail. Is that alright?

Look, if you wanna get yourself dressed up like a circus pony,

go ahead. But, I don't want the boss taking it out on me.

Listen here, Mr. Larkin. I sold just as much

as anybody else in that shirtwaist yesterday.

Did you tell Mr. Oberkugen that?

- I did. - And what did he say?

He said tell her not to wear that shirtwaist.

- Well, tell him I won't. - I will.

- Thank you. - Don't mention it.

[sighs]

[instrumental music]

Nellie, you know that..

- Nellie. - Oh.

I didn't know it was over.

Nellie, you-- you know that green blouse

that I had on yesterday.

The one with the little yellow dots?

- Yes. - I think it's lovely.

Did you like it? I'm so glad, 'cause I have a very important

engagement tonight and I didn't know whether to wear that or...

something a little more... formal...

But, I always think...

- Good morning everybody. - Good morning.

- Good morning, Ms. Fisher. - Good morning, Mr. Oberkugen.

[instrumental music]

May I tell you, you look charming today.

Nellie, what do you say we dress up tonight

have an early dinner and go to the Opera?

I'm sorry, I can't.

What is it, Nellie? You don't feel well?

I feel very well, thank you.

- I have another engagement. - Oh, you can get out of it.

Explain it to her and she will understand.

And what makes you so sure it's a woman.

I have men friends too, you know.

Nellie, you ain't, you are not going out with another man?

Yes, I am.

Nellie, you, you couldn't do such a thing.

And who's going to stop me?

Mr. Larkin.

- Mr. Larkin. - Yes, sir.

Will you please tell everybody to stay after work tonight?

We're taking inventory.

Inventory?

- Tonight? - Yes, tonight.

There are a lot of things on our shelves that are not moving.

I should like to know what they are.

I want a thorough check made of all our merchandise.

Mr. Oberkugen.

L-- is it absolutely necessary that I stay here tonight?

Because, I've got such an important engagement.

Could you possibly spare me--

It's entirely up to Mr. Larkin.

Well, Mr. Larkin, could you--

Could you get along without Ms. Fisher?

Well, as a matter of fact, Mr. Oberkugen,

I was just about to ask you if I could have tonight off too.

- Oh, Mr. Oberkugen. - What is this?

Does everybody want to leave?

Once a year, I-- I ask you to stay here.

[indistinct chatter]

I see, I see, you want a special invitation.

Next time, I'll send you an engraved announcement.

Mr. Oberkugen, I don't think we need 'em, I think we can manag--

- Did I ask you for advice? - No, Mr. Oberkugen.

- Uncle Otto, I can take Ms-- - Tonight is inventory.

Everybody stay.

It's final.

[slams door]

[plays violin off-key]

Number K52T-4.

Oh, I thought you said three.

Those are Banjo cases, Ms. Fisher. Metronomes, six.

- Got it? - Got it.

Small harps, 99.

Got it?

You just love to rub that in, don't you?

I'm merely taking inventory, Ms. Fisher.

No matter what I do, it's wrong.

If I wrap a package, it's wrong.

You want everything done your way

and even when it is done your way, you don't like it.

When I came here, I was a very enthusiastic girl

and now, look at me.

Well, let me tell you, one of these days I might find out

that I don't have to work at all and then I'll really tell you

what I think of you, Mr. Larkin.

I have to get another blank.

Mr. Larkin.

I don't like you. [sobbing]

Nellie, could I have a new blank, please?

Don't feel so bad, little dear.

I can't help it.

We'll never finish here tonight.

I'm gonna miss the most important engagement

in my whole life.

Oh, maybe we'll finish in time.

Nellie, is that clock right?

Yes, dear. It is.

Oh, Nellie, I'm never going to make it.

Well, couldn't you telephone the young gentleman?

I can't, I can't. I don't even know his... number.

Andrew: Ms. Fisher. - Oh, yes. Thanks, Nellie.

I have an engagement. I would like to get out of here.

So would I.

- Oh, Ms. Fisher. - Yes.

Would you mind holding the ladder please?

No.

Oh, you might count that music while you're at it too.

Alright.

Ms. Fisher, the ladder, the ladder!

Alright. Sure.

[instrumental music]

Otto. It's, um, it's almost 8'0 clock.

Is it?

Otto, is it too late for us to have that dinner?

What about your friend?

My friend...

'III

I just made him up.

No, I know.

You're just being kind to me.

You're a very handsome woman, Nellie.

Very very attractive woman.

Now, Otto.

Yeah, yeah, I should've known

you couldn't care for an old fool like me.

Why, Otto.

L-- I know, Nellie...

I'm not worthy of you.

But, I-- I always hoped when I became a famous violinist

then, maybe, maybe...

But to find out suddenly that... there is someone else...

Oh, Otto, listen to me. Listen to me.

There isn't anybody else.

- No? - Really.

I, I made him up.

You made him up?

[instrumental music]

- Nellie. - Otto.

[both chuckles]

Oh, Nellie.

[both laughs]

I'll go and get your things.

Children. What are you doing here so late?

Go home. All of you.

Oh!

Ms. Fisher!

Oh, Aunt Addie, hurry.

Yes, dear. I'll there in just a minute. Just a minute.

Oh, dear, dear, dear.

Oh, Aunt Addie, will you help me with this please?

I really shouldn't be helping you, after all you're having

dinner in a public place with a strange man.

Oh, Aunt Addie. He isn't a strange man.

I know all about him. After all, we're practically engaged.

Just the same, you've never been introduced.

Oh, that's convention.

A silly convention for ordinary people.

This is different. It's just like he said.

"You can't keep a love like ours in an envelope."

And you know, Aunt Addie. I know just what he'll look like.

He'll be tall and dark and terribly, terribly handsome.

And sort of sad.

Andy, don't look so sad.

To tell you the truth, Rudy, I don't feel so good.

- Look out for the carnation. - It's 8:15, Andy.

You don't have time to feel bad. Where's the buttonhook?

On the desk. I don't think I should go, Rudy.

Oh, Andy.

For her sake, I mean.

I've told this girl, what an important man I am

And when she sees me, it's gonna be an awful shock.

Don't you worry. It's going to be love at first sight.

On the other hand, what about me?

Suppose I don't like her.

You don't know how lucky you are.

Well, most men fall for a pretty face.

And then they find out there's nothing behind it.

But, with you, you know what's behind it.

Yeah. But, what's in front of it?

She'll be beautiful. You'll see.

I wish I'd never learned to read or write.

Oh, Andy.

[instrumental music]

- Well, good luck, Andrew. - Wait, wait a minute.

You look. I'm afraid to.

- No, Andy. You're not-- - Go on, go on.

Well, alright.

[instrumental music]

- You see anything? - Not yet.

- Oh, there is a beautiful girl. - Yeah?

- Very beautiful, but no book. - Oh.

Wait a minute, I think I see right there.

A book and a carnation.

I can't see her face. She's sitting behind a cloth rack.

Oh, she's leaning forward now. Andrew, she...

Can you see her?

Rudy: Yes. - Is she pretty?

- Oh, very pretty. Andrew: Really?

I would say she looks like, well, she has something

of the coloring of Ms. Fisher.

Ms. Fisher? At the store?

Now, Andrew, you must admit that Ms. Fisher

is a very good looking girl, and personally I've,

well, I've always really liked her.

This is no time be to talking about Ms. Fisher, Rudy.

[chuckling] Well, I can tell you right now,

if you don't like Ms. Fisher,

you won't like this girl.

Why? What do you mean?

Because it is Ms. Fisher.

What?

[instrumental music]

Of all the people in the world, that one--

- Now, Andrew! - The nerve of her, the nerve!

Andy, please, you can't just walk off

and leave her sitting there.

What do you mean I can't?

Listen, Rudy, if she was the last woman on Earth

and we were alone on a desert island

I'd still walk off and leave her sitting there.

Now, Andy, remember, she wrote you all those letters.

I don't believe it.

She couldn't and even if she did...

Goodnight, Rudy.

[instrumental music]

I'll be right back.

Why, Andy, I thought you weren't coming in tonight.

- Well, I was on my way-- - Oh, but I'm so glad you did.

- I have such wonderful news. - What?

They accepted my application,

and I'm playing in the auditions on Friday night.

- Oh, that's wonderful, Louise. - You'll come, won't you, Andy?

- Sure. Sure, I'll be there. - Oh, you've got to come.

- Andy? - What?

- You're not ill, are you? - No, no.

It's just that you look a little strange.

No, I feel fine, Louise.

Well, alright then.

- Keep your fingers crossed. - Mm-hmm.

- Bye. - Bye-bye.

[instrumental music]

Excuse me, miss, could I have this chair?

Uh, no, please, uh...

I'm waiting for someone. He'll be here any minute.

He must be special for you to wait this long.

- He is very special. - Excuse me.

- Leave it here. - Thank you.

Thank you.

[music continues]

Ms. Fisher.

- Well... - Mr. Larkin!

What a coincidence. You know, I had an appointment here too.

Did you see Rudy Hansen?

No, I haven't.

Well, do you mind if I sit and wait for him?

Oh, no, please don't, Mr. Larkin.

You know, I have an appointment myself.

Oh, yes, I remember.

Well, your friend seems to be a little late.

Oh, he'll be here.

I see you're reading Elizabeth Browning.

Yes. Any objections?

Oh, no. It just seems to be quite a surprise.

You know, I didn't know that you were in for classical poetry.

Mr. Larkin, there are great many things--

Shh-shh. The people are watching. Good evening.

There are great many things that you don't know about me.

- Oh, really? - Yes.

Well now, tell me, Ms. Fisher,

have you ever read Emerson's essays?

- No, I haven't. - Well, I have.

And, you know, there are great many things

you don't know about me, Ms. Fisher.

It's such a pity that people so seldom go to the trouble

of scratching the surface to find out the inner truth.

Oh, Mr. Larkin, I wouldn't care to scratch

your surface because I know that...

I know that underneath I'd find, instead of a heart,

I'd find a piccolo.

Instead of soul, I'd find a-- a flute,

and instead of an intellect, I'd find a metronome

that doesn't work very well.

That's very well put, Miss. Fisher.

- Thank you. Yes. - A metronome?

Well, it's such an interesting mixture of poetry and meanness.

- Very well put. - Meanness?

Oh, don't misunderstand me, Ms. Fisher.

Mr. Larkin, I think you understood me

when I said I was waiting for someone.

Oh, yes, well, if your party doesn't show up--

Oh, don't worry about my party showing up. He'll show up.

In the meantime, you needn't bother to

stay here and entertain me.

As you wish, Miss. Fisher.

[instrumental music]

Have you ever read "Crime and Punishment"?

Are you still here?

Mr. Larkin, are you deliberately trying to ruin my evening?

Oh, no, no.

Do you hear what they're playing?

Do you know what that song reminds me of?

Yes, 99 harps.

[chuckles]

Wrong again.

It reminds me of a girl who was looking for a job.

And a very nice girl, I thought.

Oh, how you can lie!

Well, that was before you began to make fun of me.

Giving imitations of me in the locker room.

And I'd like to tell you now, Ms. Fisher

that I am not bowlegged.

- You're not? - No.

I have information to the contrary.

Well, it's a lie, if you think I'm bowlegged,

come on out to the sidewalk and I'll prove it to you.

- I'll pull up my trousers. - What? What?

And another thing, you may have beautiful thoughts,

Ms. Fisher, but you certainly hide them.

You're cold and snippy like an old maid

and if you don't watch out, that's what you're gonna be.

- I, an old maid? An old maid? - Yes, yes.

Well, Mr. Larkin, as you go on, you'll get funnier and funnier.

I've got some letters that I could show you

that were written by a man so far superior that,

that-- that it's ridiculous. They'd really open your eyes.

- I an old maid, huh? [chuckles] - Yes. [laughs]

You belittling...

counter-jumper, you!

Counter-jumper? Well!

Thank you and goodnight, Elizabeth Browning.

[crowd laughing]

[clock chimes]

Tell me what was he like?

- I never saw him. - What?

Oh, that Mr. Larkin came in and sat at my table.

He wouldn't leave, he just talked and talked and talked

until it was so late that...

When I left I found this lying outside in the snow.

He must have seen us through the window.

He must have seen us together and thought that...

You can write to him.

You can explain.

No.

I can never explain this.

He'd never understand.

He won't.

He'll never understand.

[instrumental music]

- Hey, Andy. - Hello, Rudy.

Andy Ms. Fisher's aunt just telephoned

to say Ms. Fisher's ill. She won't be in today.

- I think we'll live through it. - Andy, I don't understand you.

- How can you be so mean to her? - Mean?

Well, there she was last night, waiting for you,

and you wouldn't even go in to see her.

You just walked away and left her sitting there all alone.

Now, Andy, that's enough to upset any girl.

Don't talk to me about Ms. Fisher, Rudy.

You don't know her like I do.

Well, Andy, the least you could do is to telephone her.

Look, if there's any telephoning to be done, she can call me.

Well, I... Oh, I don't understand.

This is so silly.

Ms. Fisher, too ill to come in.

[instrumental music]

[door closes]

Is that you, Aunt Addie?

Aunt Addie: Yes dear.

Aunt Addie, was there a letter for me?

Well, after all...

he hasn't had time.

Oh, I'll never hear from him again, never.

Now, Veronica, maybe he was called out of town on business

or... maybe his mother was sick.

I wish I were dead.

There's another mail in an hour. I'll try again.

[telephone ringing]

Maybe that's the young man now.

Oh, no, it couldn't be, he doesn't know my number.

He doesn't even know my name.

Hello.

Who is it?

Just a moment, please.

It's Mr. Larkin, from the store.

Will you speak to him?

Oh, no. T-- tell him...

I don't wanna talk to him. Tell him anything.

I'm sorry.

She isn't feeling very well.

Well, I hope it's nothing serious.

Oh, that's good.

Well, tell her we miss her.

Well, what I mean is, she's a good worker.

She's a very good worker and what with Christmas coming on,

and everything, we can't afford to lose a good worker.

Look, tell her I might drop by on my lunch hour,

just to see how she is, huh.

Alright.

[doorbell rings]

- Good morning. - Oh, it's you.

Morning, Ms. Fisher, might I come in?

Well...

I'm sorry to come to the door like this,

but my aunt isn't home.

Well, I hope you'll forgive the intrusion.

But this is really a business call, alright.

Oh, well... Won't you come in?

I felt that being in charge of the store, I ought to--

- Check up on me? - Oh, no, no, no.

L-- I didn't say that. I just wanted to, wanted to...

Well, how are you?

Well...

I'll get over it. Someday, I suppose.

Well, have you seen a doctor?

No, Mr. Larkin.

I don't need a doctor, you see.

My trouble is what you might call psychological.

Oh, [chuckles] well, if it's only psychological--

Only psychological!

Well, what I mean is that...

Mr. Oberkugen is giving a party tomorrow night

at the Vienna Gardens, and maybe if you came to that,

it might help you. Psychologically, I mean.

- A party? Andrew: Yes.

At a beer garden?

Yes.

Well, it's obvious, Mr. Larkin, that [chuckles]

You just have no understanding of women.

Well, it's really an engagement party.

Nellie and Mr. Oberkugen are gonna be married.

And he's taking over the hall for the entire evening.

It's amazing. After 20 years, Nellie has finally decided to--

[telephone ringing]

No, I-- I'll go. I'll answer the door. You stay right there.

Mama had to run to catch a trolley to go to the market

and she asked if Ms. Addie'd mind the baby for her?

I got to take my music lesson.

- Oh, just in case. - Oh.

- Bye. - Bye.

You've got a visitor.

Oh, it's Jerome. Here, I'll take him.

No, no, no. You go, you go sit down. I know how to do it.

Left hand supporting the back, and the right supporting the...

- The body, isn't it? - That's very good, yes.

But you better give him to me anyway.

- Sure. - Oh, goodness gracious.

Say, how did you learn so much about babies?

- Oh, I've had dozens of them. - What?

- I mean, my sister has. - Oh.

Now there is nothing you can tell me about babies

that I don't already know. [chuckles]

I'm particularly expert at getting that bubble up.

[laughs]

Uh, by the way, whose is he?

That's his mother in there.

Andrew: What?

Veronica: Well, I mean, that's-- that's his mother's dummy.

My aunt makes clothes for her.

Oh!

Easy to see where he gets his looks from. [chuckles]

Don't let him get too warm.

No, I won't. I'll take this off.

Support the back. Don't want to...

I'm fine. I've taken care of him for months.

Does your sister live here?

No, Wichita. I came from Wichita.

Oh, you must miss them. Those bubbles, I mean.

Yes, yes I do. They're good kids.

One of them was named for me, you know.

Oh, which one?

Andrew.

I didn't mean the name, I mean the age.

Oh!

Andrew, he's seventeen months,

three, three weeks and two... No, one day.

- He was born on my birthday. - Really?

- Yeah. - When is your birthday?

Support the back a little.

- He's alright. - June 30th.

- June, 30th. Oh, the crab, hmm. - What?

I mean, astrologically speaking. I'm interested in signs.

You know, birth signs.

[laughs]

Well, there's nothing I can do about that now.

[both laughs]

What sign were you born under?

December. The Goat.

The Goat? [laughing] And the Crab?

Yes. [laughing]

No wonder we battle so much.

Say, you know, you know what I wish?

What?

Aunt Addie: Veronica!

- Oh, here, you take him. - Oh.

Now hold his back and his head, and be very careful.

- I know. I've done this before. - Thank you.

- I've got it! - Oh, Aunt Addie, how wonderful!

Oh, Aunt Addie, this is Mr. Larkin, from the store.

- Oh, Mr. Larkin, how do you do? - How do you do?

Aunt Addie, this isn't a social call.

Mr. Larkin, we mustn't keep you from your lunch.

Oh, I've got plenty of time, really.

- Let me have Jerome. - Alright.

- I'll get some tea. - Good. Fine.

- Go ahead, read your letter. - Do you mind?

- No, not at all. Go ahead - Thank you.

[instrumental music]

- Good news? - Very good news, Mr. Larkin.

Oh, I'll be back to work tomorrow

besides, I'll even go to the party tomorrow night.

Oh, well, isn't it amazing what one letter can do?

You know, at this moment I feel so good,

I could even forgive you.

Forgive me, for what?

You spoiled my date last night.

- I did? - Yes.

This young man came along, looked through

the restaurant window, saw you sitting at my table,

and he misunderstood it.

No. You mean, he thought that you and I were...

- Yes. - Oh. [chuckles]

Well, he says here, "Tell me truthfully,

"Who was that attractive young man?

He's just the type women fall for."

He's certainly got a sense of humor. [laughing]

Uallghs] Yes.

Well, he sounds like a strange sort of a fellow to me.

Imagine being afraid to go to a table

because another man was sitting there.

He wasn't afraid. He wasn't afraid.

He was just being tactful and sensitive.

You see, it's very, it's very hard

to explain a man like him to a man like you.

Why?

Well, where you would say white, he would say black.

Where you would say old maid,

he'd say...

"Eyes that sparkle with fire and mystery. "

Mystery?

- What else-- - "Vivacious...

- Fascinating..." - Fascinating, huh?

There are a lot of things.

If you'll forgive me, Mr. Larkin,

I have to answer this immediately.

Oh, I wouldn't stop you for the world.

I'll run along and I'll see you tomorrow.

- Alright. Goodbye. - Goodbye.

[instrumental music]

Why don't you ask your friend to come to the party?

- Maybe I will. - Bye.

Goodbye.

[door closes]

Dear friend...

Look at it flash.

It looks just like a rainbow.

Oh, Nellie, aren't you pleased?

I should think you'd be so happy.

Indeed I am.

He wanted me to have it in time for the party tonight.

You know, someday I'm going to have one just like that.

Nellie: Why, of course you will, dear, you deserve it.

Oh, Nellie...

Why don't you ladies run along? You'll be late for the party.

I'll take care of the cash box.

Oh, that's very nice of you, Andy. Thank you.

Allow me.

Oh, well, thank you.

Miss Fisher, may I escort you to the party tonight?

_ yeS_ ' Yes?

I'll call for you at 8:00.

- Fine. - What about your friend?

- Isn't he coming along? - Uh, no.

He, he prefers to have me all to himself.

I don't blame him.

[chuckles] Why, Mr. Larkin...

You know, if you're really in love with a girl,

you don't take her to a big party.

You take her somewhere where there's music...

get a little table...

just the two of you.

Yes?

I know just the place.

You-- you do?

I'll tell your friend about it if I ever meet him.

Thank you, Mr. Larkin.

Thank you very much.

Here you are, Andy.

Thanks.

Well, when are you going to break it to her?

- As soon as I get a raise. Otto: Andrew?

Yes, sir?

- Come in before you leave. - Yes, sir.

Listen Andy, if you want a raise, now's your chance.

You'll never find him in a better mood.

- Now, wish me luck. - I do, Andy.

Thank you.

Sit down, Andy, sit down.

I want to talk with you.

Andy... each day I have given you

a little more responsibility...

and each day you have proved more worthy of my trust.

- I've tried to do my best. - Hmm-hmm.

But I have never really expressed my appreciation

in any tangible way.

Oh, I wouldn't say that, sir.

Now I'm going to show you how much faith I have in you.

- Oh, thank you, sir. - Mm-hm.

I am going to let you carry my violin for me tonight.

It is to be a surprise for Nellie.

But, Mr. Oberkugen...

I'm going to play it for her, you know.

But I-- I cannot carry it myself.

- Or she will be, as you say-- - Wised up.

Right, right, wised up. She shouldn't be wised up, so...

you will take it for me, you know? And then...

And then at the proper time, you will ask me to play...

and I will say, "But I have no fiddle."

And you will say, "Why, Mr. Oberkugen,

I just happen to have one with me." Good?

No, no, Mr. Oberkugen, I couldn't possibly.

It's too much of a responsibility.

A Stradivarius is worth thousands of dollars.

- I trust you. - No, really.

No, no no, not another word. No.

Take care of it and guard it with your life.

Yes, sir.

Goodbye.

Oh, Andy, it's going to be a lovely party.

I hope so, Nellie. I'll see you later.

What have you got there?

Well, we were...

Oh, no... Oh, Andy...

He isn't going to play for all those people tonight?

I'm afraid so.

Oh, you can't let him make a fool of himself like that.

You've got to do something. Anything.

- Ready, Nellie? - Please.

Alright.

What's the matter with her?

Oh, she's just feeling a little emotional.

[laughs] Of course.

8 o'clock, Andy. Don't be late. And remember.

Yes, sir.

[instrumental music]

Louise: Anthony? Andy?

Oh. Louise, come in, come in.

Oh, I was afraid I'd missed you.

- Gee, you look nice. - Oh, thank you.

Here's your card of admission.

Well, now, Louise, don't forget, I might have to go--

Yes, I know you have to go to Mr. Oberkugen's party

but you'll try to get there later

for my part of the audition, won't you?

Well, I...

I think they're taking the violins last.

- I'll try my best, how's that? - Alright, fine.

- Thanks. - Bye.

Oh, Andy...

Andy, you didn't!

You got a violin for me.

Well, now, Louise, I wanted to tell you...

I know you said you would.

Oh, Andy...

Andy, this isn't Mr. Oberkugen's Stradivarius?

Yes, it is, Louise, that's what I wanted to tell you.

And, he'd let me use it?

Oh, how wonderful! How marvelous!

Now I know that I can win.

Yes, I'm sure you'll win--

- Wish me luck, won't you? - Yeah.

Good luck, Louise.

- Thanks, thanks an awful lot. - Alright. Bye.

[instrumental music]

♪ Wait till the sun shines Nellie ♪

♪ When the clouds go drifting by ♪

♪ We will be happy Nellie ♪

♪ Don't you sigh ♪

♪ Down Lovers' Lane we'll wander ♪

♪ Sweethearts you and I ♪

♪ Wait till the sun shines Nellie ♪

♪ By and by A'

♪ We will be happy Nellie ♪

♪ Don't you sigh ♪

♪ Down Lovers' Lane we'll wander ♪

♪ Sweethearts you and I ♪

♪ Wait till the sun shines Nellie ♪

♪ By and by II

[applause]

9 o'clock, and no Andrew.

Don't worry, Otto. He'll be here.

Miss Fisher, may I have the honor of this dance?

Why, yes.

[instrumental music]

Uh, Mr. Oberkugen...

May I have the honor of this dance?

Oh, excuse me, Uncle Otto.

Excuse me.

Andrew.

Just a minute.

Otto, Otto.

Andrew, Andrew. Come here.

Hello, Mr. Oberkugen.

It certainly looks like a wonderful party.

Wait, wait, wait a minute. My violin. Where's my violin?

- I couldn't bring it. - What!

I just couldn't bring it, Mr. Oberkugen.

I said to myself,

"Suppose I was to have an accident?"

"Suppose I was to fall on the ice?"

Stop supposing, go home and get it. Get it this minute.

Now, Mr. Oberkugen, it's safe where it is,

and I'll bring it to you in the morning.

- I'll go. - No, no, no, Mr. Oberkugen.

No, no, you stay here. I'll bring your violin.

My violin. My Stradivarius.

[instrumental music]

- Louise. - Oh, Andy.

- Played yet? - No.

Oh, I'm so glad you were able to make it.

Oh, look, Louise, I've got to get back.

How soon before you go on?

I don't know. I have no idea.

Don't worry. I won't let it out of my sight.

- Louise, where's your violin? - I left it at home.

Look, I'm in a little bit of trouble.

Have you got your key with you?

Yes.

Could I borrow your violin for a while?

- Well, certainly. - It's alright, Louise.

I'll explain to you later.

- Alright. Alright. - Thanks. I'll be back.

Otto, the way you look, people will think

you don't want to marry me.

I'm sorry.

- Goodnight, Mr. Oberkugen - Oh, it was a lovely party.

But, you-- you can't go yet.

Something else is going to happen.

Ah, Veronica is going to entertain us.

Woman #1: Of course, we want to stay for that.

It's a surprise.

Uh, she's rehearsed something with the quartet.

May I have your attention, if you please.

Veronica... Miss Fisher is going to entertain us.

Now, Veronica.

[applause]

[instrumental music]

♪ In the evening by the moonlight ♪

♪ You should drop you folks should drop ♪

♪ Down to the ♪

♪ Old barbershop ♪

♪ Ooo-old barbershop ♪

[upbeat music]

♪ Down in the great big rathskeller ♪

♪ Where a swell colored fella ♪

♪ By the name of Bill Jefferson Lord ♪

♪ Played the piano while he'd sing a song ♪

♪ He just sang and played the whole night long ♪

♪ Till one night a starry-eyed lady ♪

♪ They call lovable Sadie ♪

♪ Heard him playing that barbershop chord ♪

♪ When he finished Sadie drew a sigh ♪

♪ Oh Lord ♪

♪ Every time that she would catch his eye ♪

♪ She'd cry ♪

♪ Mr. Jefferson Lord ♪

♪ Play the barbershop chord ♪

♪ That soothing harmony ♪

♪ It makes an awful awful awful hit with me ♪

♪ Play that strain ♪

♪ Just to please me again ♪

♪ 'Cause mister when you start that minor part ♪

♪ I feel your fingers slippin' and a-grippin' my heart ♪

♪ Oh Lord ♪

♪ Oh Mr. Lord ♪

♪ Play the barbershop chord ♪

♪ Mr. Jefferson Lord ♪

♪ Thomas Jefferson Lord ♪

♪ Play that barbershop chord ♪

♪ Play the barbershop chord ♪

♪ That soothing harmony ♪

♪ Sweet harmony ♪

♪ Makes a terrible terrible terrible ♪

♪ Hit with me ♪

♪ Play that strain ♪

♪ Play that strain ♪

♪ Just to please me again ♪

♪ Just to please me again ♪

♪ 'Cause mister when you start that minor part ♪

♪ I feel your fingers slippin' and a-grippin' my heart ♪

♪ Oh Lord ♪ ♪ Mr. Jefferson Lord ♪

♪ Mr. Jefferson Lord ♪

♪ Play that barbershop chord N'

[applause]

[applauses]

- More. - More! More!

Nellie: Sing another number! Veronica!

[applauses continue]

[instrumental music]

♪ They say I'm crazy got no sense ♪

♪ But I don't care ♪

♪ They may or may not mean offense ♪

♪ But I don't care ♪

♪ You see I'm sort of independenti

♪ I am my own superintendent ♪

♪ And my star is on the ascendant ♪

♪ That's why I don't care ♪

♪ I don't care I don't care ♪

♪ What they may think of me ♪

♪ I'm happy-go-lucky ♪

♪ They say that I'm plucky ♪

♪ Contented and carefree ♪

♪ I don't care I don't care ♪

♪ If I do get a mean and stony stare ♪

♪ If I'm not successful ♪

♪ It won't be distressful ♪

♪ 'Cause I don't care ♪

♪ A girl should know her etiquette ♪

♪ Alas alack ♪

♪ Propriety demands we walk a narrow track ♪

♪ When fellas used to blink at me ♪

♪ I'd freeze them and they'd shrink at me ♪

♪ But now when fellas wink at me ♪

♪ I wink at them right back ♪

♪ I don't care I don't care ♪

♪ If people frown on me ♪

♪ Perhaps it's the lone way ♪

♪ But I go my own way ♪

♪ That's my philosophy ♪

♪ I don't care I don't care ♪

♪ If he's a clerk or just a millionaire ♪

♪ There's no doubt about it ♪

♪ I'll sing and I'll shout it ♪

♪ 'Cause I don't care ♪

♪ I don't care I don't care ♪

♪ When it comes to happiness ♪

♪ I want my share ♪

♪ Don't try to rearrange me ♪

♪ There's nothing can change me ♪

♪ 'Cause I don't care ♪

[applauses]

Ladies and gentlemen, you mustn't tire her.

She will sing again.

[applause]

And now...

Yes, Mr. Hickey? You have something to say?

NOW?

What was it you wanted to say?

Mr. Oberkugen, won't you play something for us?

[applauses]

Why, Mr. Hickey, it's very gracious of you.

Very well.

Unfortunately, I, I have no fiddle.

I have a very beautiful Stradivarius,

but I didn't bring it... and so I, I have no fiddle.

All: Oh!

That's funny.

I just happen to have a Stradivarius here with me.

[crowd cheer and applause]

In that case, I will play a little number

which is a favorite of mine.

[applause]

[thudding]

[indistinct chatter]

[Otto crying]

Come on, Rudy.

Otto: He's a clumsy fool. A dummkopf!

Nellie: Oh, now, Otto, please.

How is he, doctor?

Just a little excited.

Don't worry. He'll be alright.

Good. Come on, Rudy. You've got to help me explain.

Otto: He's fired, through! Don't ever let me see him again!

Oh, Andy.

Don't bother, Nellie, I heard him.

Oh, I'm so sorry.

He... old and dummkopf.

My Stradivarius. My Stradivarius.

I'm sorry, Uncle Otto.

L-- I am no longer your uncle. Leave me alone.

Mr. Oberkugen, I just wanted to say--

You... you are fired.

Oh, wait a minute, Mr. Oberkugen.

Andrew didn't do anything.

He didn't break your violin.

He hasn't done anything.

Anything, I gave him the violin to carry.

I told him to guard it with his life.

Now I have no violin.

I just wanted to tell you, Mr. Oberkugen--

There is nothing you can tell me. Get out of my sight.

Please, listen to what he has to say.

I only wanted to say that it was not your violin that broke.

Not... not my violin?

Mr. Oberkugen, isn't that wonderful?

Your violin is safe and sound.

I'll have it back for you within an hour.

Wait a minute. What is back?

I loaned it to somebody at Symphony Hall.

But I'll get it for you right away.

He loaned, my priceless violin, he loaned it!

- Wait a minute, Mr. Oberkugen. - Wait a--

- I call the police. - No, wait.

Oh, Mr. Oberkugen...

[violin music]

[music continues]

[music continues]

Shh!

[music continues]

[crowd applauses]

Oh, I'm so glad that's over, aren't you?

[applause]

Oh, Louise, you were wonderful.

Golly, do you really think so, Andrew?

Oh, yes, yes, you won it hands down.

Oh, I hope so.

Oh, Andy, isn't that Mr. Oberkugen?

- Yes, Louise. - Come on. We must thank him.

Oh, Mr. Oberkugen, I-- I just can't begin

to thank you enough for your kindness.

Oh, when Andy brought the violin home

this evening, I could hardly believe--

I beg your pardon, Miss Parkson. The judges wish to speak to you.

Oh, yes, I'll be right there.

Thank you again, from the bottom of my heart.

- Excuse me, Andy. - Yes, Louise.

I'm sorry, Mr. Oberkugen.

She thought you sent it and I didn't have heart to tell her.

Want me to take him in?

Officer: It's up to you. Otto: No. Not necessary.

Thank you, sir.

Come in the store tomorrow

and get your PaY-

Yes, sir.

Mr. Oberkugen...

I'll see you home, Miss Fisher.

Andy, Andy, I won, I won!

[laughs]

- Isn't it wonderful? Andrew: Oh, you were fine

Andrew: Just fine. Louise: Oh, thank you.

- I'll get a carriage. Louise: Andy!

I just can't thank you enough for what you've done for me.

Andrew: Oh, Louise...

Louise: But Andy, without you, I...

I never would have been able to go through with it.

Andrew: Of course you would.

Louise: Oh, I'm the happiest girl in the world.

[Andrew laughs]

I cannot understand it.

He fires a man like Andy and he keeps a man like you.

- I told you he's crazy. - Yeah.

- Good morning, Ms. Fisher. - Good morning. Can't we get in?

We have to wait for Mr. Oberkugen.

Andy has the only other key.

- Good morning. - Good morning. What is it?

We have to wait for Mr. Oberkugen.

I never knew before last night,

Mr. Hickey, that you were an acrobat.

You didn't hear. The violin that broke wasn't Mr. Oberkugen's.

It wasn't?

I thought it was too good to be true.

Whose was it?

It belonged to a... lady friend of Mr. Larkin's.

Well, here's Mr. Oberkugen.

[instrumental music]

Good morning, Uncle Otto.

- Good morning, Mr. Oberkugen. - Good morning, Mr. Oberkugen.

[music continues]

Miss Burke... make up Mr. Larkin's pay envelope

and give it to him when he comes.

And get the receipt for it.

[dramatic music]

And when I think how happy we all were yesterday.

[mellow music]

[doorbell jingles]

- Good morning, Hickey. - Hello, Andy.

Gee, we didn't expect you this morning.

- Well, I-- - Hey, folks, here's Andy.

- Good morning. - Good morning, Andy.

I didn't think you'll be here so early this morning.

Well, I had a picture of you all standing out there freezing,

and I thought I'd better bring the key over.

Oh, thank you.

Mr. Oberkugen let us in, Andy.

- Yes. - Oh, I see.

Wait a minute, I'll get you your money.

Oh, thanks. Thanks, Nellie.

I feel terrible, losing you your job.

Oh, forget it.

Look, I'm lucky. I thought he was pretty decent about it.

I don't know what we're gonna do without you, Andy.

I tell you, it won't seem like the same place.

Of course it will.

You'd better get busy... the customers

are beginning to pile up.

How about, how about Christmas dinner tomorrow, Andy?

- Have you got a date? - Why, no. Not now.

- Why not come to us? - Oh, thanks Rudy.

Good. We'll... we'll set a place for you.

Thank you.

[instrumental music]

Mr. Larkin...

I know that we didn't get along very well.

I guess we fought a lot but... [sighs]

Losing your job just before the holidays...

that's something I wouldn't wish on...

Your own worst enemy. I know.

I didn't say that.

Oh, let's not quarrel anymore, Miss Fisher.

Goodbye.

Goodbye.

- Good luck. - Thanks.

Nellie: Andy, here you are.

- A month's pay. - Oh, thank you, Nellie.

And goodbye.

Andy, actually this is all my fault. I'm going to tell him.

You're going to do nothing of the sort.

I wouldn't let you.

Well, at least I can get you a letter of recommendation.

Oh, Nellie, I don't think he'd--

You knock on his door in a little while.

I'll have it for you.

Alright, Nellie.

Andrew's here.

I gave him his money but it'll be hard

for him to get another job without some kind of letter.

Very well.

To whom it may concern...

I wish to state that Mr. Andrew Delby Larkin

has been with me for...

- For a number of years? - For a number of years.

In all this, in all this time I've found him...

- Reliable? - Reliable, efficient.

Wait, you said "reliable?" He isn't reliable.

- Taking my violin? Reliable? - No, it isn't.

It isn't honest, it isn't right.

I could have had him thrown into jail for that.

Nellie: Yes, you could.

I... Where was I?

Uh, "In all this time I have found him reliable..."

Efficient...

Extremely honest...

and because of his diligence, I promoted him.

I promoted him.

I was so proud of him.

Like a son he was to me. Like a son...

[door knocks]

There's Andrew for his letter.

Come in.

Morning, sir.

I will finish in a moment.

Where was I?

Um, "Because of his diligence, I promoted him..."

To the position of top salesman.

Yes, and that was not all. I was going to make you manager.

When Nellie and I were married

I was going to put you in charge of the store.

And... then you have to do this to me.

Well, I'm sorry, sir. There's nothing I can say now.

Otto, let's forget it.

Andy's leaving, and you have your violin.

That's the trouble, Nellie. I haven't my violin.

Last night, for the first time I heard it played

as it should be played. I knew then I had no right to it.

[sighs]

I want you to give it to your, to your young lady friend

and give it to her with my, my blessing.

Take it tonight... after you finish work.

- After I fin... - Yeah.

Yes, after you finish work, and now, Andy, that you are manager

you, you might give yourself a raise.

- Well... - You see, Nellie?

Sometimes I can admit lam wrong.

Oh, Otto. Otto!

Otto: Now, get going, manager.

Mr. Hickey and Mr. Hansen! On your toes!

As your new manager, I ask of you for a little more

holiday spirit.

- Andy, you're manager? - Congratulations.

- Well, that's more like it. - Thank you.

- Where's Miss Fisher? - In the locker room.

Alright, Hickey, you-- you open up.

We'll make this the biggest Christmas Eve

Oberkugen has ever had. Let's sell out the store.

Good, Andy, good.

[whistling "Jingle Bells"]

- What happened? - What?

What are you talkin' about?

I thought you were discharged.

[chuckling] Oh, that. I was, I was.

But Mr. Oberkugen changed his mind,

and took me back, and made me manager.

- Well, congratulations. - Thanks.

You know, it means a lot to me.

- It does? - Oh, yes.

A raise in salary, and who knows?

Maybe marriage.

Oh.

Yeah. [chuckles]

You know, she's a very attractive girl.

- I think so. - Yeah.

L-- I was quite surprised to find that you had a girl.

[chuckles] You mean you thought I couldn't get one, is that it?

[chuckles]

There you go, putting words into my mouth again.

Honestly, you're the most insufferable man I've ever met.

Heaven knows you were bad enough when you were just a salesman

but now that you're manager--

- What happened? - I hurt my finger.

Oh, I'm sorry.

I was happy as a lark when I came in here this morning.

Because I thought I wasn't gonna have to see you

day in and day out.

Well, I can't stand it anymore.

- I'm leaving! - Wait a minute.

You just can't leave now, just as I was about to...

What?

What I mean is, you can't walk out now,

the day before Christmas with the customers coming along.

Oh, you needn't worry.

I'll finish out the day, if that's what's bothering you.

But I give you notice, Mr. Manager.

I'm getting out of here tonight.

[instrumental music]

Miss Fisher, this lady is interested in this song

and would like to hear it.

Certainly.

- I'll play it for you. - Thank you.

What is it, Andy?

- What's wrong? - Oh, everything. Everything.

Didn't you tell her?

No. It's all over, forget it.

[piano music]

♪ Merry Christmas ♪

♪ Have a very very merry Christmas ♪

♪ Dream about your heart's desire ♪

♪ Christmas Eve when you retire ♪

♪ Santa Claus will stop ♪

♪ And I know he'll drop ♪

♪ Exactly what you wanted ♪

♪ From your chimney top ♪

♪ So be jolly ♪

♪ Have a holiday as gay as holly ♪

♪ May the ones you love be near you ♪

♪ With the laugh of friends to cheer you ♪

♪ When the church bells ring ♪

♪ Like the angels sing ♪

♪ And you hear the joyful hymn they chime ♪

♪ Hang a wish from me ♪

♪ On your Christmas tree ♪

♪ For a very merry ♪

♪ Christmas time N'

[instrumental music]

- Mr. Oberkugen. - Well, my children...

This Christmas Eve has been the biggest

in the history of Oberkugen's.

I want to show you my appreciation.

Miss Fisher, I hope this will be the first

of many Christmases with us.

Thank you, Mr. Oberkugen but I--

Mr. Hansen, please.

You have done a fine job. Fine.

Thank you, Mr. Oberkugen.

Now, there have been times

when I have been a little cross and so

but you know I, I didn't mean it.

Thanks, Uncle Otto.

- Now, Andrew. - Mr. Oberkugen.

You've already made this a very happy Christmas for me.

That is for the manager.

And tell your young lady she should

take good care of my, of her Stradivarius.

Nellie, come.

- Goodnight, everyone. - Goodnight.

- Merry Christmas. - Merry Christmas.

Merry Christ to you.

Well, I guess you won't need me to help you lock up.

No, Rudy. You go on home to your family, I'll close up.

- I'll see you tomorrow. - Yeah.

- Goodnight, Miss Fisher. - Oh, goodnight, Mr. Hansen.

- I beg your pardon. - Did you lose something?

- Yes, I left my stocking cap. - Oh.

- Andy. - What?

I hope you don't hold it against me,

my making up to Miss Fisher.

I didn't know until last night that she's in love with you.

Gee, I thought I was doing alright,

but I guess the best man won.

Rudy: Coming, Hickey? - Coming.

- Goodnight, Andy. - Alright.

[instrumental music]

- Mr. Larkin. - Yes.

I was wondering if you wouldn't mind

giving this to Mr. Oberkugen.

Now that I'm not going to be here any longer,

I couldn't think of keeping it.

Oh, you're sure you won't change your mind, huh?

Oh, no. l... no.

I was going to leave in a few weeks anyway.

You know, Mr. Larkin,

you're not the only one who's getting married.

- Oh, really? - Well.

When did this happen?

Here, let me help you with those.

Thank you.

When did this happen?

Well, it-- it hasn't happened yet.

Then, of course, he-- he might not ask me.

[scoffs] Then again--

- He might. - Yeah.

Well, as a matter of fact,

I happen to know that it will happen.

- Mr. Larkin. - What?

What do you mean you happen to know?

[chuckles] I might as well tell you.

He came to see me the other day.

- Who? - Your fiance.

I had a pretty uncomfortable time with him.

You know, he just didn't believe you

when you wrote and told him

that I meant nothing to you.

Imagine that.

Well, I... I just can't get this through my head. Uh...

You mean that he came to see you?

Yes, that's right.

But you know, you've got nothing to worry about

because I straightened the whole thing out.

In a little while, you'll be Mrs. Newspickle.

Newspickle?

Well, that's his name, isn't it? That's what he told me.

Yeah, Newspickle.

He's a nice fellow. I congratulate you.

- Why, thank you. - You're a very lucky girl.

Yeah, well, did you find that he was very attractive?

Yes, yes, I thought so.

But don't try to change him.

Don't you go putting him on any diet.

Would you say he was fat?

Well, I wouldn't, no.

Personally, I like that little tummy of his.

It gives him a nice homey look.

And after all, that's what you want in a husband, isn't it?

Yeah, that's what I want.

And as for his being bald...

[Veronica gasps]

Oh, I don't think anyone would know it.

You know, it's very clever the way he lets

those few hairs at the back grow long,

and then combs it forward over the top of his head,

coming down over his ears. It's real genius.

- Mr. Larkin. - What?

- About his mind... - Mind?

Yes, didn't you find that he was very

well, in-- intelligent and witty.

Witty? No, not witty.

As a matter of fact, I found him quite depressed.

But then, of course, you can't judge a man

when he's out of a job.

Out of a job?

Why, yes.

Why, he never said anything about that to me.

Well, as you say, he's very sensitive.

But he thinks you can both live

very comfortably on what you make.

Did he ask you what I make?

Well, after all, he is your fiance.

But he was a little worried at first.

But I promised him I'd try to get you a raise.

Oh, well, I just, well, I think this is ridiculous, outrageous.

I... I wish you could read his letters,

and you'd find out that

he has such a lofty point of view.

Lofty?

Now to find out that he's so materialistic.

Materialistic, too? Well, I'm sorry.

I hate to think that I've spoiled your Christmas.

Well, you haven't spoiled it.

I suppose I should be thanking you.

Oh, no, you don't have to do that.

But you, you know what I wish you would do?

I wish you'd send this Newspickle about his business

and concentrate on me instead, huh?

Well, I can't. You already have someone.

- Oh, no, not yet. No. - Wait a minute.

This is all wrong.

After all, it is Christmas.

I know, but Mr. Larkin--

Oh, Veronica, I love you so.

Please open Box 237 and take me out of my envelope.

Box 2... Box 237.

"Dear Friend."

- You? - Yes.

- Oh. - Are you disappointed?

[exhales] Psychologically, I'm very confused

but personally, I feel just wonderful.

[instrumental music]

♪ You hold her hand and she holds yours ♪

♪ And that's a very good sign ♪

♪ That she's your tootsy-wootsy ♪

♪ In the good old summertime H'

[instrumental music]

[instrumental music]