Kane and Abel (1985) s01e01 Episode Script

Part 1

KANE AND ABEL Episode 1 The head is through Shoulders Come on, Anne.
One more push.
That's it.
Holy mother of God ! Where did you find it? It's a boy .
It was on the hill.
Near the bridge .
By the road to Slonim.
Where is his mother? - Who is she ? - She's dead, Mama.
I never saw her before.
She's not from here.
Hurry! Tell your father.
He is at the castle with the others.
Ask Mrs.
Wojnak if she can come.
Now hurry! - Can we keep the baby mummy? - Hush Florentyna! Well done, my darling! I am very proud of you.
And of our son.
You look beautiful.
Both of you.
Thank you! Thank you for the flowers.
You know what I'm going to do first thing? Ring up the headmaster at St.
Paul's Academy And reserve a place for William Lowell Kane.
Class of 1913.
We should've left the grave open.
He will not live through the night.
Don't say that! My God! The ugly little bastard has only one nipple! It was given to us by God! It is His mark on him.
Don't talk stupid, woman! The child was given to its mother by a very bad man.
Why she came here to have it, I will never know.
I name this child as William Lowell Kane.
William Lowell Kane I baptize you in the name of the Father, and of the Son And the Holy Ghost.
Amen We'll christen him.
Wladek Koskiewicz.
With your permission, Mr.
Baron.
The Father is already waiting in the chapel .
In the eyes of God, he will be ours.
It's a beautiful baby.
The little devil is ugly as a cabbage.
- Deformed as well.
- He is not deformed! Only got one nipple on his chest.
The mark of Saran, if you ask me.
Wladek Koskiewicz , I baptize you In the name of the Father .
.
the Son and the Holy Ghost.
BOSTON 10 Years Later Thank you Robert.
I won't be needing it again today.
Father! Can I go for a ride in it? Can I? Not now, son.
You look a bit spent Mr.
Monroe.
My son been giving you a run for your money again? We're neck and neck in spelling and reading, but I'm afraid he leaves me in the dust when it comes to mathematics.
His grandmother has given him a new slide rule.
He'll be unstoppable.
- Want to see how it works? - Perhaps later, William .
What would you say to suspending classes for a month? It'll give me a chance to catch up.
Good.
We'll be going away.
We'll see you in a month then.
- Good day, sir.
- Good day.
- Where are we going, Father? - Later, William.
- The book is mine! - Give it back! Stop it! Stop it! Stop it ! Leave Wladek alone.
Give me the book.
You did not have to help me.
I know.
What is it? It is Polish history.
The teacher let me borrow it.
- Now look at that! - It's alright.
I will tell him it wasn't your fault.
Anna! Helena! Hurry! Quickly! Quickly! Mr.
Baron.
Wladek, get away from there.
Florentyna, take him away.
No, no.
Let him stay.
It is about the boy that I've come.
I've been talking to the teacher at the village school.
- Is there anything wrong? - No, no.
His teacher says he's very quick at learning.
- The best in the school.
- It is a good boy, sir.
My son, Leon, is about the same age .
His tutor says he's bright, but lacks acompetition to spur him on.
So I would like Wladek to come and live at the castle.
As felllow student and companion for my son.
- I won't go! - You will do as I say! I won't go, unless Flortya can come with me! And this is Florentyna? Pay him no mind, sir.
He'll be there, right at early tomorrow morning.
Perhaps we could use another industrious girl in the kitchens.
Would you like that? Well We will transfer all these records to the trust department for day to day accounting until the new managing director arrives.
Yes, sir, that would do very nicely indeed.
I think we are in excellent shape and I appreciate your help.
Its been a pleasure seeing you again, Mr.
Kane.
Your late father was my mentor, you know? Hadn't much to recommend me except a pencil behind my ear in those days.
Father said he could always tell a banker about the way he added up a column of figures.
Indeed he could.
I'm almost finished for today, William.
Then we'll join your mother.
You know how to tell the weight of the cargo that barge's carrying? You just figure out how many cubic feet are under water Cubic weight load under water , Multiply by the weight of the water it displaces, And subtract the unloaded weight of the barge.
I venture to say Kane - Cabot bank will be in good hands for at least another generation.
- What does it say? - Fortunae Pavi Fortus.
Fortune favors the brave.
Are you brave? Of course.
Are you? I think so.
He was brave.
He fought for Poland as a general in the army of the right Kosciuszko.
When we grow up, we will fight for Poland and we'll win! Measles? At first I thought he must be tired up from all the sighseeing.
Bad luck.
I don't trust this doctor.
I'd rather see Dr.
McKendric.
I'm sure a look in the mirror will tell you a second opinion is unnecessary.
I have to return to Boston, William.
You'll come back later with your mother.
There is a strike at the Cotton Mills, in Lawrence.
The bank has a heavy investment in the company.
I am disappointed too dear.
Your father gets to ride on a brand new ship all by himself.
The Titanic? Its the biggest, most modern ship ever built.
It'll be lonely in London without you.
I daresay I'll be lonely in Boston too.
I do not expect the let you steer the Titanic on her maiden voyage anyway.
The Baron Yussef Rosnovski died along with 20 thousand of Poland's finest soldiers.
Protecting the retreat of Napoleon from Moscow.
That was in Good.
And from that year, Our motherland has been divided and occupied by Russia, Austria and Germany.
Our tutor says there will be another war between them soon.
With Poland as battlefield.
But this time, God willing, we may emerge as an independant country once again.
On whose side will we fight, Father? The Russians.
You see, their Czar, Nicolas, has pledged to restore our freedom if we fight with them.
And of all our enemies, the Russians need our help.
Are you alright? If the Russians win, Sir Do you trust the Czar to keep his promise? Titanic sinks.
They said it was the biggest, safest ship in world! They said! I read it! They lied ! Thousands of people feel just as we do.
It was a terrible tragedy.
- They killed my father.
- Listen to me.
I need you to be strong now.
You're all I have.
I need you to be strong for me.
You're the man of the family now.
Are you listening? Oh, my darling Please understand.
I'll never understand why the British got into the war in the first place.
Why not let the French and the Germans fight among themselves? They've been doing it a 100 years.
- Colonies, that's what is all about.
- Good for business.
The majors can't turn out the goods fast enough.
I'll agree with you there.
If I were the British, you know what I've done? Stayed on the sidelines, supplied the combatants, poked in when they're all exhausted and pick up the pieces.
Are you sure that this is the right time? Yes ! It's high time she started going out and seeing people.
- You 're an incorrigible matchmaker, Milly.
- It's quite a match, my dear.
Anne Kane.
David Osborne.
He's been asking about you since you arrived.
Milly! I'm afraid its true.
I'm afraid I don't know what to say.
- If you'd rather that, I - Absolutely not! 3 years mourning is quite enough.
Milly, you're impossible.
He's the most eligible bachelor to come to Boston in years! If Milly Preston were a man, she'd be a cad.
What a wonderful word for her! May I get you something to drink? I'll go with you.
- I knew your husband .
- Did you? We were at Harvard together.
Excuse me.
Thank you.
Well, actually not together.
I was in my 2nd year when he was finishing.
He was a remarkable man.
Not just because he was president of his class and all that.
Thank you.
Milly tells me that you have a son, that looks very much like his father.
Very much so! - I would like to meet him.
- He's at school just now.
Perhaps when he returns.
Warsaw fell to the German and Austrian armies 3 days ago.
We try to hold them to the Vistula but as you can hear, we failed.
Our troops are in full retreat.
I'm sending you to our summer home at Grodno.
Now hurry up and pack.
Warm clothes and your books.
But quickly! Florentyna! You German pig! Leon! Leon! You killed him.
You killed him! Wladek! Wladek! - They will kill us! - Stop that! Be still.
Where Where is Leon? Dead, sir.
They killed him! He tried to help me.
Don't worry.
I'll protect you.
What will we do ? We will survive.
- But what - We will survive! Come in.
William, dear.
Won't you come downstairs and say hello.
I have a lot of work to do.
Mr.
Osborne thinks very highly of you.
Why do not you like him? I think he drives fancy cars that I paid for, and pretends to know things he doesn't know.
It is unfair of you, William, and unkind, and you have no right to speak of my friends like that.
You're still the man in my life.
I just want to like my friends, alright? Personally, I do not blame him for being jealous of you.
Or anyone.
He's been so rude.
It is a child.
Just give him time.
He'll come round.
Okay? You know that offer Milly's husband made for me to join him? - Yes.
- I decided not to take it.
Not ready to settle down? I'm not ready to settle for that.
I'm going to England.
Join up.
No! Everyone says its not our war.
Yes, but it will be.
I'm just getting in a little early .
Don't worry about me.
I have too much to come back to now.
Are you ready? Wladek? No.
I don't want.
You must eat.
Wladek? You must eat, sir.
To what purpose? Ludwik? Alfonse? Yes, Baron? In accordance to Polish law I charge you to witnesses my last testament.
No! My life is nearly over.
You cannot change that.
No! I hear the Germans talk.
The war is ending! They will be leaving soon! I swear! Please you cannot give up hope now! You will swear to bear truthful witness to thy hearts? - I swear.
- I swear.
I Baron Abel Rosnovski, do hereby will and bequeath, all my worthy lands and titles to To my son, Wladek.
As proof of my resolve, I I give him this.
to wear.
Our Coat! Wladek, listen to me You are my son.
Trully my son.
That flower On your breast It's the same mark That I bear.
I'm your father.
Baron? What should we do? I will bury him.
Next to Leon.
My brother.
Guards! Guards! over here, Matthew.
William, pass here! Over here! Freaky goal, Kane.
They'll never going to hang your jersey in St.
Paul's trophy case.
Hot on Wall Street called us Kelsey on the the ice.
- Thank you! - You want an article that clam up on us? Heck no.
I mean, my girls did make a killing on that stock you recommeded.
- The Cameron company.
- Lisa and Carter? And he probably got a little romance in the rumble seat with her daughter.
I think you deserve a few shares of that, William.
Sounds good to me, Matthew.
- Who is she? - Names! Names! Come on, you guys! Kane and Lester, the goldust twins! Oh William, do you mind if I borrow your math notes? Don't you ever take your own? Why should I? Yours are better.
Aren't you supposed to be home this weekend for your mother's wedding? I am sick Matt.
Can't you see I'm sick? Not the darn thing! After all the bridegroom is something of a war hero, isn't he? According to him, he is.
Time marches on, oldboy.
You can't expect to be the only man in her life forever.
- That's not it.
- No? Anyway David Osborne doesn't strike one as the forever type either.
What is it? What is happening? I do not know.
I cannot see anyone! Noone is there.
What do you think, sir? Have they left us to die here? We will not die here! That I promise you! Who are they? Are they Polish? Russians.
Will they help us? Who's in charge? This is my home.
And you are on my lands.
Aristocrat, hmm? They will keep us together won't they Wladek? We will always be together.
Stop! Wladek! Stop.
Not ! Wladek! Flortya! Flortya! No! Flortya? Flortya Flortya Flortya Flortya Flortya? Flortya? Flortya? Flortya! Flortya? Flortya? Flortya! Flortya! Flortya! Bye bye.
Bye.
Happy? I only wish William could be here, darling.
To see how happy I am.
Don't worry.
Where are taking us? I heard them talking.
Russia.
Prison camp in Siberia.
Ludwik! Ludwik! Maybe you should ask your superiors, How many slaves you are allowed to loose in one night.
Please don't ever call him that.
I tell you what, you can share my father.
- Hello Mr.
Griffin.
- G'Morning Mr.
Matthew.
I'll even throw in my sister Susan.
She's dying to meet you.
I told her you are the king lover.
No! What did she say? Happy Birthday, William.
- I do not know that.
- Let's try.
- Ready? - Here we go.
Excellent! Excellent! - Now try the other way.
- Okay.
Its good to see you again, William.
How like your father you are.
Was my father ever in this room, Mr.
Lester? His great uncle was on the board here.
He'd often bring your father down to New York with him.
What are your plans, William? Beside from tutoring my son through St.
Paul's that is.
When William leaves St.
Paul's, he'll be top of our class, Class president, and he'll have won the Hamilton Mathematics scholarship to Harvard.
As your father did.
And while my son becomes an idiot, eh? I expect you will graduate with honors, as your father did.
And take over the Kane - Cabot bank.
Well I'd like to, sir.
And then Well the way I see it Matthew takes over here, And one day we merge both banks, into the biggest in the East.
You hear that, Matthew? It's all I've heard about in the last two years.
That's quite a dream! I hope you achieve it.
For Matthew's sake, as well as your own.
I can't think of anything now, that'd please me more.
Up! Get up! Get up! Up! Anybody else want to die? Go ahead! I advise it! It is only a matter of time, anyway.
So die now! And make it easy on yourselves! Come on! You'll be next, Pole.
You won't last long, sadly? We're betting that you're next.
March! Up.
Get up! In response to your 1st question, David Osborne has no claim whatsoever, on any part of the estate left by your father.
Of course, your mother is free to dispose of the $ 500,000 left to her in trust, in any way she pleases.
Our investigation shows that she hass withdrawn that amount from Kane - Cabot over the last, 18 months.
Perhaps to deposit elsewhere.
I think I have a good idea where it's gone.
Of the sizable fortune left to you, the principle may not be touched until you reach majority, when its yours to do it as you see fit.
What about the interest to that? Which is quite a considerable amount by now.
That may be invested, but only with the unanimous approval of all the trustees, Alan Lloyd, chairman of Kane - Cabot bank, your godmother, Mrs.
Melissa Preston, And your mother.
How about Mr.
Osborne and this latest scheme of his? His company is one of 6, bidding for the contract to build, the new city hospital.
On the face of it, the $400,000 performance bond, would seem to be beyond his financial capacity.
Well I want to thank you, Mr.
Cohen, you've been most thorough.
Mr.
Kane, Forgive my curiosity, but tell me, With all of the legal recources, available to Kane - Cabot bank, Why would you come to such a small firm like, Cohen and Cohen? Mr.
Cohen, you whipped my father's lawyers hands down in litigation once, And my father loved winners.
And he always mentioned your name with the greatest respect.
I have no doubt we'll meet again, Sir.
Good day Mr.
Kane.
You know, I never had the privilege of meeting your distinguished father, but having dealt with you, I wish I had.
Thank you sir.
I'm not signing my name to this, but it does not diminish the truth of what I tell you.
The discgraceful truth, is that your husband is conducting an illicit love affair, with your trusted friend, Milly Preston.
Anne? Where are you? How're you feeling? A little tired.
I get a bit dizzy when I try to do too much.
It's my fault.
I should't be giving you papers to sign.
I don't want to do anything to upset you.
Especially now.
I do love you, you know? Do you? I don't blame you for having doubts about me, as a businessman.
These last few years have been less than marvelous.
But this time, I've worked night and day to put this hospital bid together.
And I am that close to getting it.
I've obviously, let that keep me away from you too much.
And because of that, Anne, you can't doubt that I love you.
I signed the papers.
They're over there on the desk.
To hell with the papers.
Anne I'd like to open a bottle of wine.
And we can just sit here and enjoy the fire, and forget about papers, bids, business.
We can forget about everything but us.
All of us.
Alight? Yes, who is it? One moment.
It is Milly.
For you.
Tell her I'll call her back tomorrow.
Did you get the message? Is anything the matter? She is a little tired.
We'll make an early night of it.
So if I hadn't called, I'd still be sitting here waiting, wouldn't I? That's right.
Tomorrow then.
Bye.
Foolish.
To bring the wound open again like that? Foolish.
How else can I get permission to come here? I have changed my mind.
I'm not going.
You have to.
We planned the escape together! I can't! We can do it! If you stay here, you will be dead in a year.
It's worth the risk, no? I can't.
Then I will go by myself.
But I need your help.
I have sown 200 rubles in the lining.
And an old map.
probably many of the names have changed.
But you'll see the route for Odessa.
And where the boats leave for Turkey.
It will be a long journey, but you'll only be safe when you're out of Russia.
Here.
It's all I have.
Take it.
I have no need for emblems of royalty here.
You must be on the kitchen truck, when it leaves for the railway yards, of Ircutsk.
I have bribed the head cook, with my small drug supply.
Come with me.
The passenger train for Moscow, will wait until the prison train is unloaded.
You will have only a few moments.
Remember.
Only a few moments! You are from one of the camps aren't you? Please.
I'll leave the train as soon as I can.
Please! Your ticket.
Your ticket, please.
He is with me.
It's my nephew.
Where are you going? I'm trying to go to Odessa.
From there, escape to Turkey.
My husband is assistant station master in Moscow.
I'll ask him to help you reach Odessa from there.
Thank you.
May the saints protect you.
Who are you? I had a nephew your age.
Studying for the priesthood.
He died in one of the camps.
An enemy of the state.
An orange.
I was hungry.
These hands stole gold rubies.
You loose yours for an orange? Wait! Hold on there! Just hold on there.
Who are you? My name is Wladek Koskiewicz, I'm Polish.
Release this lad at once! You have no jurisdiction over this boy.
Release him! Unless you wish to make a present of his severed hand to my embassy.
Now! You come with me.
Quickly! Make way there! We must get you to the Polish Consulate before they change their minds.
Hurry! Every word I have told you is true! I believe you, Wladek.
But with the 2 witnesses to the Baron's testament both dead, and the Rosonovsky lands themselves are in the middle of some of the fiersest fighting.
I want to go back and fight for them! I want to fight for Poland! My advice for you is to go to America, as soon as I can arrange a visa for you.
I do not want to go to America! I am Polish! Indeed you are! And you have borne more than your share of our county's suffering.
Now is the time for you to start a new life in America.
Funny thing about us Poles, over the centuries, the barbarians try to destroy us.
But we know where home is.
I will go back.
Whatever happens, one day I will go back.
As Chairman of Kane - Cabot sir, you know that under the terms of our trust fund, any investment made must be kept private.
No recipient must ever know the source of the money.
Perhaps your mother feels, that she can break the rule in this case, William.
Since the money's been loaned to a member of the family.
David Osborne is not a member of my family.
And when I control the trust, I will respect my father's wishes.
Absolute confidentiality is a rule I will never break.
You might regret such a rigid stance, William.
In any case, you have no authority over your trust till you're 21.
I think I'm within my rights in telling you that David Osborne will not be awarded the contract to build the new hospital.
He's been caught trying to bribe city officials.
Nothing will be brought up in the open but, his name's been removed from the list.
The contract will be awarded to Kirkbridge and Carter.
How'd you come by this information? I'd prefer not to say.
Do you have any more bomb shells? Before or after you putt, sir? After! Well Thank for the game, sir.
I believe you owe me $20.
That's right.
I think the time has come, William that you stop me calling me sir, Mr.
Lloyd, Mr.
Lloyd, sir.
As you well know, My name is Alan.
Alan I am also ethically concerned, that aside from yourself, both of the other trustees of my estate, are sleeping with David Osborne.
For Heaven's sake, William! Don't tell me you are the only person in Boston that doesn't know that David Osborne and Milly Preston are having an affair.
I'm afraid it is true, Mrs.
Osborne.
Lots of times I investigate these things and they ain't true, but they get just as mad when it ain't, as they do when it is.
- Coffee? - No, thank you.
This time, it is.
I'm sorry to have to tell you like this, you being pregnant and all.
The lady's name is Melissa Preston.
- You want times and places? - That won't be necessary, thank you.
Did you find out who was sending the letters I received? You know Mrs.
Ruby Flowers? No.
Well, then I guess she just has her own axe to grind.
Yes Mrs.
Ruby Flowers 53, I think.
Yep.
She is a well-off widow lady that your husband promised to marry, before he met you.
Oh, Mrs.
Osborne, I'm sorry.
I'm so sorry Are you alright? Easy there.
I'm sorry, I didn't mean to throw a jolt at you.
It's alright.
I should be going.
You can be ok? I can help you with the stairs.
- I'll be quite alright, thank you.
- Sure now? Thank you very much.
Okay.
Mrs.
Osborne I don't much like this business.
Neither do I.
- I want to go to the bank.
- Yes, ma'am.
Easy there, Easy.
Oh, my God! - To the hospital.
Hurry! - Right away Mrs.
Osbourne.
My God! William I want my son! Where is William? You ought to be getting back to school, Matthew.
I'd rather be here if you do not mind.
I'm sorry, William.
So very very sorry.
Your mother died a few moments ago.
The baby, a little girl, stillborn.
With her history of high blood pressure, Frankly, I advised her to terminate the pregnancy.
But neither she nor your stepfather would hear of it.
I kept her monitored carefully, and things seemed to be going well.
This reaction today came as a complete surprise.
Her blood pressure went up so suddenly.
And she didn't put up any real fight.
Almost as if she didn't care.
Let's take a walk, William.
I'll be as quiet as a stone, if you like.
I had the privilege of announcing your birth to your father.
In this very room.
The pain of this is more than I can tell you, William.
They've been trying to reach your stepfather.
Would you know where he is? I'll notify Mr.
Osborne.
Anne, I'm home.
What are you doing here? Why aren't you at school? Where is your mother? My mother died this afternoon.
What are you talking about? The baby's dead too.
This is impossible.
And where were you? In bed with Milly Preston.
How dare you, you impertinent! William, don't! - William! - You're jealous! Selfish little school boy.
You just can't stand the fact that your mother loves somebody else! You get out of this house! If I ever see or hear from you again, I'll start a full investigation into what happened, to the money you stole from my mother, and me.
Now leave, And I'll lose the books on you.
I'll get even with you, little rich boy.
Just keep wating and watching.
And you see if I don't.
If you try it Then I swear I'll kill you.
What are you waiting for? There will be enough time for girls in America.
But why wait? We have another 5 days aboard this stinking ship, and I'm going to find more women .
What can you do with 5 women? What can you do with 5 women? A man who has done what you haven't you have never made love to a woman? Time has come to broaden your education, my friend.
Zaphia ! Zaphia Kovik, come here! Jerzy, please don't .
Come! I would like to introduce to you my best friend.
Wladek Koskiewicz.
A Baron! Don't you want to dance with me? Yes, but Is it because you do not know how? Or because you are Baron? Of course not.
Maybe it is not true.
Maybe I told you everything just to impress you.
How do you know? My feelings don't lie.
I am a little afraid of you.
That's a sign.
Come.
Come on! I think you're just afraid to go to America.
You are not? Of course not.
I have special plans for America.
I wish we were going to be together.
I would like to stay close to you.
You will be alright.
When I am established in New York, I will come and see you in Chicago.
You don't understand what I'm saying, do you? Are you ashamed? No.
Am I your first? Of course not.
I think I am.
You are my first.
Do you love me, Wladek? Yes.
I love you, too.
I wondered when you two would.
Great, noble Wladek.
With a lonely, peasant girl.
You are one to talk, Jerzy! Hey, I decided.
When we land in America, I'm changing my name.
To George.
- George Novak.
- Very American.
I need to be very American if I'm going to be mayor of New York.
We will be there.
Half the girls on this boat are going to be searching, New York looking for Jerzy Nowak.
More than half.
It has been a long trip.
Good night, Zaphia.
Good night, Wladek.
Wladek Koskiewicz no good.
You ought to change it before we get there.
It's only fair to warning to that Alright have been warning, Matthew.
We're going out with you, anyway.
Any promise that's made after 48 hours of exams, is null and void.
What sort of promise did you have in mind? What sort did you want to hear? Good day, officer.
And who might you be? My name is William Kane, and This is my car.
William Kane? I'm awfully sorry if it's William Kane! Well, Mr.
Kane, this will serve as a small reminder not to leave obstructions in the way of fire hydrants Just a moment, officer.
- And what might your name be? - Thaddeus Kohen, I'm an attorney.
Representing Mr.
Kane in this matter.
Are you now? First of all officer, you're basing this charge on an assumption.
You assume the hydrant was there, before the auto.
Secondly, you're accusing Mr.
Kane here of guilt by association.
Just because he owns the machine doesn't mean, he was driving it when it arrived at this questionable location.
Lastly, and most important, since you're Irish with an innate sense of fair play, and since there are no fire trucks in evidence, you'd permit Mr.
Kane to drive away.
Irish dialect.
Cohen, you say? Should be Cohen with that line of blarney.
I had enough with the lot of you.
Just be glad I'm Irish.
Mr.
Cohen, do I know you? I think my father did some work for you a few years ago.
Cohen, Cohen and Yablanes.
So, am I your first client? Considering I won't get my diploma, till the end of the semester, yes, I'd say you are.
Well, as a retainer, What'd you say to joining us for dinner? - All aboard! - Great.
Kathlin, Suzan, you'd be at back.
Delighted to drop Michael, when I have 20 girls to take, Even if one is my kid sister.
There you are! Welcome to America, Wladek.
No! I have decided also.
I told them my name is Abel Rosnovski.
Baron Abel Rosnovski! George.
George Nowak.
Pleased to make your acquaintance, Abel.
To your left, ma'am.
- I never want to see something like this again.
- Yes, sir.
- Waiter? - Yes, sir.
- Some coffee.
- Right away.
I surely don't appreciate their sitting us, on over and trail to the gentlemen's washroom.
Food all comes from same kitchen, honey.
- That's all.
- Yes, sir.
And you can't tell me that every suite in this entire hotel with a view of the park is reserved all week.
I can't understand why you won't tell them who you are.
Hotels are run, like any other business, Melanie.
Regular customers get the choice, and they're taken.
Am I right, Rosnovski? Will there be anything else, sir? No, thank you.
How did you know his name? Now what are you up to, daddy? You'd be surprised with what I know about Abel Rosnovski, honey.
It'd be be really interesting to see, what he does about the "chicken".
Must you always sound so down home, daddy? Honey, I'm paying the University of Chicago a lot of money to put the polish on you! Too late to retrain this old dawg.
Waiter? - Yes, sir.
- Will you bring the cigars? Yes, sir.
I hope I haven't celebrated too prematurely.
The news of the loan will be announced tomorrow when the market opens, And 10 minutes later, the stock will've doubled in price.
Bet on it.
And are not in nickels and dimes.
What is the name of gentleman sitting at that table? Mr.
Woolworth's.
I am sorry to disturb you at home, Mr.
Basel.
But I would like you to buy F&W Woolworth shares.
Up to my limit, tomorrow morning.
Even before stock exchange opens if possible.
Oh, just another what you call, hunch.
Two Harvard graduates.
Such abundance.
Even if one is just my brother.
William, I insist on knowing your intentions regarding my sister.
How pass the night? - None of your business.
- Strictly honourable, I hope.
Don't worry, the secret of your sex life is safe with me.
I never knew bankers were such a trashy lot.
If you 're contemplating wedding bells, sis' of mine, marriage isn't in William's plans till well, age 28, 30? Enough of that, Matthew.
I can wait.
- Hello Mr.
Lloyd.
- Matthew.
- Father.
- Son.
- Mr.
Lloyd.
- Hello, darling.
Sorry we're late.
We got delayed in a serious discussion about banking.
I daresay.
Anyhoe, I lived to see the day, Matthew.
Congratulations.
And you too, William.
You know as I recall, graduating from Harvard, calls for tea and cream cakes.
Shall we keep to the tradition? Absolutely.
Serves as right for the "Boston Tea Party".
At Oxford probably the tradition is scotch and soda.
Waiter.
William won the Presidents' Mathematics Prize.
Very Impressive.
- Sir.
- Waiter - Another tradition - Think it's wonderful "A" Students make great leaders, we "C" students, make great lovers.
Matthew, for Heaven's sakes! I doubt your litte Polish waiter had a thing to do with it.
If you believe that Melanie, you're not as smart as I know you are.
Boy heard you fussing 'bout the table.
I was also fussing about our suite.
Maybe his antenna didn't pick that up.
There's something wrong when they're going past the constitutional amendment, At least there's no law against eating.
Least ways' not yet.
I wonder if they'd mind if I order 2 of something.
I'm starving.
Daddy? The only reason you don't have an ulcer, is 'cause you don't have room for one.
Don't be too sure.
I just got your bill from Marshall fields.
Don't scowl.
You are a burden to me, Melanie.
A very pretty one.
Almost as pretty as your mother was.
If I'd had a brother He'd probably look just like you.
Real cute.
I knew there was reason I brought you all the way to New York.
William, I hope you don't mind my choosing, this very informal occassion, to make a very special announcement.
That sounds a bit auspicious.
I think that you'll agree that it is.
I've talked to the board.
We'd like you to join Kane - Cabot, as our newest director.
Hey, a Director! A director, William! Aren't you proud? And by the time I'm ready to retire, you'd be a seasoned member of the board.
And you can help us choose my successor as chairman.
Who knows! It might even be ready for What can I say.
I accept.
Please, sir.
I am sorry.
No, no.
That's my fault.
I didn't know the Plaza required its waiters to wear manacles.
Only the rebelious ones, sir.
Sorry.
Did you see it? Wouldn't I love to have something like that.
William Oh, I'm just a bank director, not a waiter.
William, congratulations.
Yes, sir.
I was afraid you wouldn't find it.
Somebody got the head waiter to move us out of the slums.
I also take liberty of speaking to someone about your suite.
They will move your things during lunch, with your permission.
And there is beautiful view of park.
Madmoisellle.
I wonder if you'd join me in our new suite, when you get off duty.
Name's Leroy.
But you already knew that, didn't you? Mr.
Davis Leroy.
Yes, sir.
You come from Poland.
Call yourself a Baron.
Broke out of a Rusky prison camp.
Arrived to America with empty pockets, and a lot of ambition.
You come from Texas.
Your family left you 7 hotels.
Richland Group, I believe.
You learned all that, in one of those economics courses? Columbian night school? No.
But it might make it possible for me to figure out why Richland Group, especially Chicago Richland, is running at a loss.
Hold now.
I'm afraid you're jumping a fence there.
But I think I know one reason for loss.
Is that so? You are absent from hotels.
You're doing what is called wildcatting for oil.
And the profit could choke a horse! How did you get a hold of all this? Same way I learned your assistant manager, in Chicago resigned two weeks ago.
Resigned, hell! Up and quit on me without so much as a toodle-do! And you are wondering, If I am one to to be in his shoes.
Yes? Thought your daddy didn't know what he's doing, eh? What do you say now? I'd say, you'd better offer the Baron the job, before his price goes up.
$30 a week.
What do you say? $40 a week.
And 5% of any increase in profits, after I arrive in Chicago.
None of my managers get payed on a profit basis.
They'd raise hell if they found out! I don't tell them if you don't.
You're done, Abel.
I like you.
I like you a lot.
No wonder those Bolsheviks couldn't keep you locked up.
You're a natural born capitalist.
You got on right.
Tonight we are going to celebrate! Chicago Assistant Manager! Chicago Richland Hotel! Hey, maybe you'll see Zaphia again.
Remember Zaphia, she moved to Chicago? She's probably married and has a kid by now.
They are like castles.
Great hotels.
American Castles.
Long way away.
From whom I'm going to borrow money? When I become big hotel magnate, I will send for you.
Goodbye Mr.
Lester.
Don't forget.
The goal is still Lester - Kane - Cabot.
Thought you'd forgotten now.
I have.
Who is that? I don't know.
But he was just made director of some bank.
I would say, he and I had pretty big day.
- Good to see you.
- Likewise.
- Is my daughter upstairs? - Waiting for you.
Thanks.
See you later.
I need to speak with you.
- Can it wait? - Afraid not.
This assistant manager you sent me, is not gonna work.
Sorry to hear that.
Seemed like a bright kid.
What do you think I tell him.
Countermands my orders to the staff.
Half of them've already threatened to quit on me if don't get rid of him.
I think he's even trying to get the waiters, to share their tips with him.
And that isn't bad enough, He insists on being called Baron.
Tell him I want to see him.
No need for you to trouble yourself.
I can discharge him.
Nay I can clean up my own mess.
If this hotel were being run anywhere near its potential, this Presidential suite would not be available.
It would be occupied at least 80% of the time, and helping to pay some of $30,000 you are losing here every year, to a well-oiled machine, of thievery, pilferage and absenteeism.
Hell There is always a little, fiddling goes on in the hotel business.
Even at the Plaza, I bet.
What you got here is not little "fiddle".
It is practically whole orchestra.
Look.
Guest receipts, dining room cheques, room service, pantry.
If a one time guest checks out, or pays for a meal, those thieves pocket the money, and throw the receipts away.
But I find out.
The loss of linens, silver and furnishings, is nine times the average of a hotel this size.
And if a staff member refuses to go along with well-oiled machine he's fired.
Just what the blue blazes you expect me to do about all this, Abel? Fire Desmond Pacey, and half the staff that is in it with him.
I've known Desmond Pacey for 20 years.
Not a single one of the hotels he hasn't had a top job in.
Maybe that explains why others are also losing money.
Your success in other fields may permit you to run Richland Hotels as hobby.
But my 5 % of profits do not get me much, when this sort of thing is allowed to go on.
Us Texans got a reputation for speaking our minds.
But I got to say, I'm not your class, son.
Are you going to fire Pacey or no? No, I'm not.
Just ain't gonna do it.
I don't have to.
You are the new manager of Chicago Richland.
You fire'im.
Thank you, sir.
I don't appreciate being challeged, at every board meeting regarding my recommendations, William.
Unless of course you're planning on taking over, as Director of Investments.
I'm not challenging you, Tony.
Of all people, I wouldn't think you'd want Kane - Cabot pulling out of the market, with stocks reaching new highs Gentlemen, we're all labouring in the best interests of the Bank.
I wouldn't question that for a minute, it's just that Well in the long term, I see the market falling.
I reduced my own capital investment considerably.
In favour of what? Commodities, sir.
Gold, copper, tin.
South America for the most part.
The reports that I've read suggest that there will be well shortages developing.
Even if I agreed, how could I ask the board to back investments, in well, unstable countries when the American economy is booming the way it is.
We'd lose, some of our most important clients, they'd think we got soft in the head.
I've been in the stock market since I was 15! Yes, I know, and some pretty unorthodox investments, wouldn't you say? William has had some luck in the unusual.
Tony, if William feels that we should be getting out of the market, Why we don't give him a chance to present his views in front of the board? - That's fair.
- That won't get anywhere, I promise you.
Mr.
Kane, Mrs.
Brookes is here for her appointment.
I forgot all about it.
- Would you explain Mrs.
Brookes - Her family has been with the Bank for years.
See her and then join us.
- Didn't her husband die? - It was an accident Sorry to keep you waiting, Mrs.
Brookes.
I appreciate you coming like this.
I know it must be a burden.
I'm afraid we're gonna have to make Another How do you do, Mr.
Kane? You are Mrs.
Brookes? I have identification.
No, its just that I My husband was some years my senior.
Please feel free to get down to business.
I know you must be busy.
I received a copy of the bank's accounting of your assets.
Yes.
Not much left, is there? Well, there is the property in Florida, the Buckhurst Estate, your husband bought it, let's see 4 years ago.
Did he Did he have any plans for it? A real estate development.
I'm afraid we didn't do much about it.
I've been living there.
It's a lovely place.
I'm sure its sale will help, settle some of the debts.
There's also some jewelry I have.
Let's not be too hasty in disposing of assets.
What happened to Mr.
Kane? He's still in with Mrs.
Brookes.
Thank you.
My friend Matthew Lester and I were, in Paris last summer.
We were there in May.
For the air show.
Max was an aviator, you know? Yes, I know.
I want to settle all of Max's affairs as soon as possible.
Well I think the wisest thing is for me to, discuss the Florida property and the overall situation, with several of my colleagues, and see if we can come up with a repayment plan which will leave you with as much as possible.
Will you be staying on in Boston? I'd intended going back to Florida.
Would you like me to have an appraisal made? I wonder if I shouldn't take a look at it myself if that's alright with you.
I think that would be very nice, if you have time.
Good afternoon.
I want additional room work on duty and afternoon and early evening.
We got guests.
Give them service.
- Mr.
and Mrs.
O'Connor.
- How are you? - Baron.
And remind Morgan, I want always checked twice a day for burned out bulbs.
It looks more dead than a burned out lightbulb.
At 20:45 pm, Baron.
If you need me, I'm at Consolidated Trust Bank, In President's office, Mr.
Curtis Fenton.
Madame.
Is there anything wrong, Mr.
Fenton? Oh, quite the opposite, Mr.
Rosnovski.
You've worked something of a miracle with the Chicago Richland.
Thank you.
Mr.
Leroy's sister, Mrs.
Amy Leroy, holds 25% of the shares in the Richland Hotel Group.
I don't know if you knew that.
- No, I didn't.
- Yes.
Well, having received no dividends for so many years That is going to change, this year I Nonetheless, Mrs.
Leroy is getting on, and she's expressed the desire to dispose of her stock.
I thought perhaps you might be interested in acquiring it youself.
Oh, I must speak with Mr.
Leroy first.
I've already discussed it with him.
As he has no interest in buying the stock himself, he's rather heavily invested in the market at the moment, he suggested that I offer to you.
He did? How much is asking price? $100,000.
Yes, I thought I would've mentioned it, I expect its a bit steep for you at the moment.
I buy it! I can give you $30,000.
I have luck in stock market.
But that still leaves you $70,000 Since the bank considers me such a miracle worker, you loan me the balance.
I'm sure.
Mr.
Leroy told me to be careful.
He said you'll have me roped and branded before I could even blink an eye.
I think you may've just become A 1/4 owner in the Richland Hotels.
"Thank you! Thank you!" Its good of you to come.
- I hope I haven't been too much trouble.
- Not at all.
I enjoy having a visitor.
Its a welcome distraction.
I don't think I've ever been called that before.
I didn't mean it to sound No, you didn't.
Why not stay on a few days? I'd like to Kate, but I've run out of excuses now that the appraisal is done.
I think I can arrange matters so you can hold on to the house.
I think we should sell most of the land.
Price is not gonna get any higher.
Is that agreeable with you? It's more than I expected.
You're not just being kind.
No.
Foolish.
I should sell the house out for money and leave you with no option, but to come back to Boston.
It's chilly.
You haven't said.
Do you like my new coat? Yes, it's very pretty.
I don't wear pretty things.
I wear shoop things.
I'm freezing! Maybe I could make you a glass of something warm? You continue to surprise me, Baron.
Good.
You've come quite a way from waiting tables at the Plaza.
Distance is all relative.
Are you a philosopher now? It was one of my favourite courses at Columbia.
"To Health ".
I loved the concert.
But you seemed as though you were somewhere else.
I was.
For many years I hear no music at all.
Then, Chopin seemed to speak To my heart.
Like no other composer.
It sounds so very European when you say things like that.
Polish.
I think I'd best be very careful around a Polish baron whose heart is on speaking terms with Chopin.
Why you hurry? Hurry? I thought I've given you ample time, for one little o'concert.
I thought you would want to stay.
Stay the night? Don't be silly.
I don't understand.
Did I do something? You're an experience.
That's all.
An experience.
I just wanted you to have a taste, of something you'll never have again.
Now do you understand? But I wanted to marry you.
Marry? Marry a Polish immigrant? I am a Baron! You don't think anybody really believes that.
All staff laughs behind your back, at that Baron business.
Baron! Oh, look I've hurt his feelings.
You'll find a nice Polish girl, Abel.
Thousands of'em in Chicago.
Nighty night.
Baron.
The thing I want to talk to you about, Abel.
Yes.
Melanie tells me you You asked her to marry you.
Davis, I meant no disrespect.
I don't know how to say it, but Damn fool turned you down, didn't she? Not a patch on her mother but still she's got her ways There's lots of good in it.
But a son? That's something else, isn't it? Never had a son.
Guess that's why, gotten to you so quick.
I found myself telling folks someday I'd like you to meet my son-in-law.
Now don't you laugh.
Saw myself telling folks someday I'd like you to meet my son-in-law.
Picked him myself.
He talks funny, but he's the brain to the family.
I'm sure she marry someone you'll be proud of.
Yes, for sure.
Someone fourth generation horse breeder.
The kind that buffs his fingernails.
You alright? We're still partners, ain't we? That's a relief.
You know I think it's time I started Americanizing you proper, son.
Gonna get us some tickets to baseball games.
Go out to Wrigley Field, see the Cubs play.
How about it? Chicago Cubs! - Yes, I would like that.
- I thought you would.
You're us now.
You are in the driver's seat.
Son? We're going places.
Extra, extra! Extra, extra! Wallstreet collapses! Extra, extra! Wallstreet falls! Well, we're managing to cover the withdrawals with the cash on hand.
For the moment.
I talked with Charles Lester, in New York this morning.
The Lester Bank has agreed to allow as to borrow against the equity of the stocks we still hold.
Those that have any value left.
I think that should be enough to see us through.
Wow, that's wonderful, Allan.
Wonderful.
Tony Simons wants to resign.
Blames himself for the bank losses in the stock market.
I think I'll just transfer him to our office in London.
And I think I'll recommend for you to become Director of Investments for the bank.
Should've listened to you in the first place.
Gotten out of the market when you did.
Thank you.
Something I'd like to do right away, - If you agree.
- What's that? I'd like to ask Matthew Lester to join us, to work with me.
Matthew? Oh, fine.
Yes.
Remember Tomy Rolands? Fast Fidelity? Shot himself to death last night.
Just heard of that.
What the hell is happening here, William? Are we aquating the value of life with paper? Is that all we're worth? It's just so much paper.
Davis? We have turned the corner! Like the one prosperity's just arrived.
72 % occupancy Ritz since this summer! The upper floor is not bad.
For jumpers.
Drink up, ol'Polski buddy.
" Health " .
Davis, this quarter we're going to get profit.
Next quarter, a bigger one.
And I want to show you ideas I have for other hotels I'm proud of you, ol'buddy.
Prouder than can say.
Only thing is I don't own the hotels anymore.
Of course you do.
Not anymore.
Now they belong to the bank.
You sold them? But they have been in your family for 2 generations.
I've mortaged'em, Abel.
4 years ago, Along with the Orleases, the Riggs, used the money to buy stock.
'Cross the board.
Some wildcats, mostly blue chip.
And I was doing so good, I guess the hotel losses never really bothered me.
Sure bothered you though, didn't they? Can't give the stock away now.
The only thing they's good for, is hotel toilet paper.
We just have to stall the bank for a while.
That is all.
The bank took possession of the Richland Group last Thursday.
They gonna sell the hotels off as quick as they can.
But that is crazy.
What does Fenton think, Consolidated Trust will gain by that? They don't know anything about running hotels.
Didn't borrowed'em from Fenton.
Wish I had.
Got the money from a bank in Boston.
Good! They don't even know where Chicago is.
- We call them.
- I've already called'em.
Fobbed me off on some wet-ears puppy.
William Kane.
Fed me a lot of textbook talk on having to realise on the investments, "In times like these".
In times like these! What the hell does he know about it? I'm finished, Abel.
He finished me off.
Just like that.
So am I.
Nah! You got a great future ahead of you, son.
If I ever get back on top, though I'll finish that fellow Kane off.
Personally.
And his bank.
Oh, lord! You got all your money invested in the hotels? In me.
You gave me a chance to own something.
To be something.
They did it.
Not you.
Want to know something, Abel? Ain't but the best man a man could want.
The best.
You are best friend I ever had.
I should've left you in New York.
That's right.
Not get you into this mess.
How much is the mortgage? 2 million.
Hell, what does it matter, son? I'm sorry I disturb you at home, Mr.
Kane.
But it is very important.
- Who is this? - My name is Abel Rosnovski.
I am manager and part-owner, of Richland Hotel in Chicago.
I would like to discuss mortgage with you.
I'm sorry, but I've no authority to deal with anyone, but Davis Leroy regarding the Richland loan.
Yes, but Davis Leroy is close personal friend - I'm sure that's the case, mister - Rosnovski.
Mr.
Rosnovski, but has he authorized you to represent him? No, but I am very concerned about him.
You see I don't wish to appear rude, Mr.
Rosnovski but Mr.
Leroy is already aware why we started forclosure, and I think well I think under the circumstances, it would be quite unprofessional for me to continue this conversation.
Unprofessional ? I'm sorry Mr.
Rosnovski.
Good night.
Mr.
Rosnovski? Baron? It's about Mr.
Leroy, sir.
- You'd better come.
- What is it? He's jumped out the window.
He killed himself.
Davis! Davis! Davis! Davis! Abel, son.
You and me, would've made a great team.
But I recon if anybody can, you'll beat the Boston bankers on your own.
My lawyer in Dallas will tell you, I left the other 75% of the shares, in the Richland Hotels to you.
Don't worry about Melanie.
She's got the house and what's ever left.
I'd sure would've liked you for a son.
Well, at least it was fun pretending.
Goodbye, partner.
I love you a whole lot.
Davis.
I'm not trying to give you the run-around, sir.
Mr.
Kane is out of town.
The Chairman is in New York.
The Director of Investments is out of town.
Don't you people care what is happening out there? Mr.
Kane is in Florida on business.
It would've been wise to make an appointment, don't you think? You absolutely right.
If you could tell me, where in Florida, your boss is, I call him and we meet there.
I'm not at liberty to say.
Are you at liberty to say when he will be back? Sometime during the first of the week.
Can you make appointment for me sometime during the first of the week? I can only pencil you in, sir.
Mr.
Kane would have to approve it when he returns.
Pencil me in.
Its very reasurring to have one's own personal banker, ready to drop everything.
Sale a house can be a very tricky thing.
The bank does approve? I don't know about the bank, but Your banker does.
Will you be coming back to Boston, Kate? I was a little frightened, with the thought of seeing you again.
No, it's not true.
I was scared stiff.
Mr.
Kane will see you now, Mr.
Rosnovski.
Mr.
Rosnovski, how do you do? I'm sorry to've kept you waiting.
I have a lot to catch up with here How do you do? Have we met somewhere? I really wish you'd called, Mr.
Rosnovski.
Could have saved your trip, all the way from Chicago.
Would travel to hell and back to save Richland Hotels.
Yes, I'm sure.
I'm verry sorry about Mr.
Leroy.
Very sorry.
Mr.
Kane Richland Group, Can be very profitable operation.
I have already put Chicago Richland in profit.
You see, we going to be good investment.
Therefore, why Forclose now? Mr.
Rosnovski, I myself recommended to the board that we delay the forclosure.
And they turned me down.
Twice.
Let me talk to them.
I know hotel business.
But I'm afraid you don't know the banking business.
We We don't operate that way.
Mr.
Kane, just give me a little time.
I can put all hotels in profit.
That is better deal for you, yes? All I need, is chance to prove.
I can do it, sir.
I'm afraid the bank's decision is quite final.
Unless you can find someone who will assume, the 2 million indebtedness within the alotted 60 days, the hotels must be put up for auction in the open market.
But you get 10 cents on the dollar.
It's out of my hands.
I've done all I could do.
I tell you what you have done.
You killed Davis Leroy.
He was like a father to me.
And you killed him.
Just as sure as if you shoved him out of that window youself.
We have all suffered personal losses, Mr.
Rosnovski.
Don't talk to me about suffering! Don't talk to me about losses! I have sat here for week while, you were sunning yourself in Florida! Yes.
We have met.
Tea and cream cakes.
The day you got into this bank, you silver-spoon Harvard bastard! Now, wait just a minute.
You and your colleagues You sit here on your asses, while we work and we sweat our guts out, so you can take big profit, when times are good, and then sell us out so quickly when times are bad.
Let me tell you something, Mr.
Kane.
When you go to bed at night, in you fancy silk sheets, you think about Davis Leroy, lying dead, on street, in Chicago, where you put him.
And then you think about me.
Because as long as I am alive, I'm going to see that you, and your stinking bank pay for that! You go to hell, Mr.
Kane! I suggest, we get married.
I got enough Atlantic Interational stock, to make more problems for you that you have ever seen .
I'm sorry, William.
If this is some sort of personal vendetta, between you and Rosnovski I want you to investigate, every deal ows to've pulled.
And I don't care what it costs.
I'm going to break him until they bury him!
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