Desirable (1934) Movie Script
Sorry madam. Standing room only.
That's all we have for the next four
weeks. You might try the agency.
Have you anything for
next Saturday's matinee?
Standing room only. No, I'm sorry.
How can I live, and breathe
and eat and sleep?
And go on talking and smiling.
Go on pretending.
Yes, that's it.
Go on pretending that I'm alive.
How shall I forget you?
And if I could forget.
How shall I forgive myself?
I've made my life .. and I've broken it.
In this one small corner.
And in this corner.
I shall end it.
Love gone.
You gone.
Everything gone.
She always makes me cry.
Don't you think she looks like me?
- What?
Round the eyes, I mean.
Oh yes. Yes.
That yellow dress she's wearing
is kind of cute, honey.
I look awful good in yellow.
Say, isn't that Austin Stevens
the broker, over there?
Yes. Why?
He backed this show.
Oh.
So he's the Walbridge money, eh?
- Why not?
I'd like to have a piece of it.
A nice fellow, Stevens.
Dumb as a fox.
Hello Mac.
- How are you?
Did you like it?
- The play? - Yeah.
Sorry.
Ah, but did you see them crying?
I heard them. She's lovely, isn't she.
Crying as though their
little hearts would break.
And the whole thing is just a
big dish of unmitigated tripe.
Yes, but you made them believe it.
- But that's talent, boy. Great talent.
By the way, you're coming
to my party tonight?
Well ..
You must come. Helen
will be looking for you.
Well, it's very nice of you
Stevens, but after all ..
Nonsense, nonsense. I love to suffer.
Besides, it will give me a good
chance of doing away with you.
Well, that's very flattering.
- Unfortunately, it's true.
You are putting the skids under
an old man's life, my boy.
But anything for Helen.
Now you say that you'll come and
I'll resist my wilder impulses.
And I won't poison you.
Well thank you. That's very kind of you.
- Not at all.
Oh no really, I was so
nervous in the third act.
You were lovely, Helen.
- No thank you.
That show will run 40 weeks, Helen.
- You really think so?
Absolutely. Didn't you hear
your public sobbing?
Oh, bless their hearts.
Did you cry, Mac?
- Like a baby. I dissolved.
Let me fill your glass.
No thanks. I'm drunk on all the applause
and lovely things you've been saying.
But that's everyday stuff for you.
- Oh no, no.
For years and years, the only sound
I heard was a slight hissing.
I don't believe it. When was that?
I'll tell you privately.
- Good.
Will you excuse us, Austin?
- Of course.
I'll have your poison sent right in.
Don't.
- No?
And I'll come back here in a moment.
- Alright. I'll clock you.
You know you're sweet, Austin.
- Uhuh.
Mac now, is just a caravan
that passes in the night.
I have to be polite to him.
But you. You're always
there. You're like ..
Lime the pyramids.
- The pyramids, huh?
And you're the Sphinx.
Perhaps I'll let you live another day.
- Thank you.
Will you excuse me?
Ah, he's a swell fellow.
What's troubling you, Mac?
Helen .. when am I going to see you?
Don't be so grim, Sweet.
You are seeing me now.
Oh, not like this.
You've never had dinner with me.
Don't be silly. You dine with
me at the Carlton Club.
Oh, I was there, but so
was the 7th Regiment ..
And 200 of your more intimate friends.
Won't you come and have dinner with me?
- Why don't you ask me nicely?
Helen, will you please
have dinner with me?
Yes.
- When?
Well, let me see. Next week. No.
How about Tuesday?
- Next Tuesday?
No, darling.
Well, then the Tuesday after?
- Three weeks from tonight.
Are you free three weeks from tonight?
Three weeks?
- Better write it down.
Three weeks from tonight.
- I beg your pardon, madam.
But I've been told to say that
your pyramid is waiting.
Thank you.
Yes, tonight.
And none of your sunburned
herring roe, Mario. I want caviar.
Ah, caviar.
The best Caviar, Mr McAllister.
We have kept it on ice
since it left Vladivostok.
Just smell, Mr McAllister.
Ah, that's fine. Now,
what about the soup?
How about the minestrone?
No, how many times ..
- Alright, alright.
How about mushroom?
No, no. Definitely, no.
Ah, I got it. I got it.
Turtle. Turtle soup. Nice clear cream.
Turtle? Yes, that's okay.
Mark it down, and bring it there.
And now Mr McAllister, for the entre?
I've a special idea.
- Well, let's hear it.
Chick a la Maryland.
Chicken. What's the matter
with liver and onions? Chicken.
Oh, squab.
Bring me the squab. Little bit of squab.
A little tiny squab.
A little nice squab.
That sounds better. Let's see them.
- Bring it here, the squab.
Here.
Oh, that's fine. That's alright.
Morning.
Morning.
Morning.
Good morning.
Good afternoon. How do you do?
We were just going to call the morgue.
One moment Chet my
boy and I'll be with you.
Get me Mario at The Trio. Thank you.
You're going to lunch now?
Ah temper, temper.
Now tell me, what's on your
so-called mind, my boy?
Nothing. Nothing at all.
I don't like to mess in such vulgar ..
Hello? Mario. This is Mr McAllister.
With the turtle soup,
I'd like a nice, dry sherry.
Yes, you got it?
Good, then I'll call you back.
Alright, Mr McAllister.
Oh this man is crazy.
Now you were saying?
Really, I hate to bring it up.
- Just a minute.
Get Tawley's the florist.
I want a corsage of three white
orchids sent to Miss Helen Walbridge.
Yes, at 112 East 63rd.
At six o'clock tonight.
Now?
- May I continue?
Do.
- Thank you.
If you pardon the advertizing business
for lifting its ugly head one moment.
Of course, I realize this
means nothing to you.
Give me that.
Oh, the Minion Lipstick account.
You remember it?
It means nothing to me.
- Nothing? You landed it.
Did I? Well, what do I
know about lipstick?
A simple boy.
Where are you taking Walbridge tonight?
To the Museum of Natural History?
You know this is the most charming
restaurant and the best soup.
You like it really?
- Oh, it's perfect.
Good. I know you'll
like the next course.
It's a speciality of Mario's.
- Oh, my dear ..
I'm sure it's a triumph
no matter what it is.
But unfortunately I shall never know.
Never know?
I've got to get back.
It's nearly 8 o'clock.
Darling, you've hardly
had anything to eat.
I know. It's a stupid business.
It doesn't make any allowances for fun.
A little green soup and a yellow cab.
What are you talking about?
Oh darling, only a little soup after
waiting three weeks just to look at you.
Stop that. I like to
have you look at me.
Oh, never mind, Mario.
You mean never mind
the salad? It's very nice.
Yes, I know. But take it
away, we're leaving.
You mean, you're going to leave now?
Yes.
What's the matter?
- Oh, nothing. Nothing.
Everything is hunky dory.
[ Italian language ]
[ Italian language ]
[ Italian language ]
Goodnight, Madame.
Goodnight, Mr McAllister.
Taxi.
Miss Walbridge is in
apartment 1201, sir.
Thank you, my lad.
Helen.
Helen!
Helen!
Oh.
Did I hurt you?
Oh no, no. No, I'm sorry.
Now don't you bend. I'll get the book.
There's your book.
- Thank you.
I didn't know Helen was
expecting anyone tonight.
When she was at the theater, she ..
- I know. She asked me to wait.
My name is Stewart McAllister.
How do you do?
Yes ..
Aren't you going to ask me to sit down?
Of course, yes. Do.
My manners aren't very good tonight.
There, you see. I told you.
I'm really in an awful dither because
I'm not supposed to be here.
No?
No. I told them I wasn't expected home
but I had to because of the quarantine.
Quarantine?
Yes, you see the whole school's
been quarantined because ..
Well it was scarlet fever Miss Gee
had all along and not the hives.
So they sent us home.
Oh don't be nervous. We weren't exposed.
Oh no, I'm not.
Now let's see if I can
put this thing together.
You're at boarding school. That's it?
Hmm. Miss Charlton's, near Springfield.
Yes .. and they sent you all home.
- Uhuh.
And your family didn't expect
you, so they weren't home.
So, you came over here to see Helen.
Oh, no .. no.
Helen is my family.
Helen is my mother.
Oh yes.
Helen is your mother?
- Yes.
You don't think she'll be angry, do you?
Why should she be?
- Well, do you know her very well?
Oh, pretty well.
She's lovely, isn't she.
- Yes.
Have you seen this picture of her?
- Oh yes.
I wish I were like her.
I'm always knocking things
over. I seem to be all legs.
Like a colt.
- A colt?
Oh yes. Like a horse.
In a drawing room.
But Helen is so graceful.
I wish I could brag about her.
Don't you?
- Oh no.
You know how funny kids are
about actress's children.
So Helen and I decided it would
be better not to tell anyone.
Mr Austin is the only one who knows.
Oh, I see.
My room-mate feels I've a crush on Helen
as I cut her pictures out of the papers.
Well, what do you do when your
mother comes to visit you?
Oh but she doesn't. That would
give it all away, don't you see?
I use my father's name. Johnson.
Oh, I see.
Well, do you like this school?
This Miss whatshername ..?
Well, I really graduated last year,
so all my good friends have left.
Helen thought I ought to stay
on for another year, but ..
I feel kind of left over.
I'm older than any of them
you see. I'm nineteen.
Are you really?
- Yes.
I feel sort of silly sometimes.
Especially when the boys from the
academy come over for the dances.
I'm taller than any of them.
See?
- Yes.
You don't smoke?
- No, thanks.
I didn't think you did.
Oh, I tried.
It always seemed to go
down the wrong way.
Yes, I imagine it would.
How do you know?
- Well, I guessed.
Tell me, what's your name?
- Lois.
Lois.
Are you going to stay long, Lois?
Well, that all depends on Helen.
As she's working, she might not like ..
Oh it isn't that she isn't fond
of me, because I know she is.
When she's working she likes
it quiet to rest and study.
Yes.
Tell me something.
You see New York much
since you've grown up?
No. Hardly any at all.
- Then why not stay a while?
Helen might ..
- Tell Helen you're going to stay.
No.
Save tomorrow night anyway,
and let's see some of our town.
Oh gosh, I'd love to.
- Then it's a go.
But Helen ..
Tell Helen you're going
to stay. Furthermore ..
Tell her I'm calling you in the morning
and I won't take no for an answer.
Oh, I wish you'd tell her I
couldn't wait because ..
Well, because of your being here.
But if you wanted to see her?
- Oh no, it's not important.
Then I'll tell her you dropped
in but it was nothing important.
Just say I knew she'd
rather be alone with you.
Oh, I ..
I got this key from the elevator man.
Yes, I'll leave it on the table.
- Alright.
What's the matter?
- You're taller than I am.
A coincidence.
You're the first man
I've met in ages, that is.
Then you're glad we met?
I've never liked anyone half so much.
Never say that to a man.
Why not?
- Well ..
I'll tell you later.
Goodnight.
- Goodnight.
Oh .. tomorrow.
Goodnight.
Oh Dan.
I've left my key at the theater.
Oh, did you, ma'am?
Dan, have you a passkey?
- Yes, ma'am.
Thank you, Dan. Goodnight.
- Goodnight, ma'am.
Lois.
Helen.
Helen!
Gosh, I'm glad to see you.
- But, Lois, what are you ..?
The whole school is quarantined.
They wouldn't let me stay.
Surely ..
They wouldn't let anyone stay.
I won't be in the way. Really, I won't.
Darling, it isn't a question
of your being in the way.
You know I'd love to have you here.
It's just that ..
Well, you know how things are.
I'm in the middle of the run.
There will be many people coming here
for parties. I know you won't enjoy it.
Oh you do understand, don't you, Sweet?
Yes. Yes, of course I understand.
It's what I explained to Mr McAllister.
Oh .. was he here?
Oh yes, I meant to tell you.
He said he wouldn't wait because he
knew you wanted to be alone with me.
He told me to tell you that the key ..
- Yes dear .. I found it.
Gosh, he's attractive.
I'll phone aunt Cora.
- And nice, too.
I'll phone aunt Cora in the morning.
She's opening her house in Delaware for
Christmas. She'll love having you there.
Helen, I don't want ..
- You'll have such fun.
It will be dreary for you here in town.
- Oh no, Helen. You see ..
Darling, I'm so tired.
Have breakfast with me at noon.
And we'll plan your trip.
Alright, mother.
That's a sweet girl. Goodnight, dear.
Goodnight, mother.
The first draft, Mr McAllister
of the Mignon booklet.
Oh, thank you.
[ Telephone ]
Hello?
Oh, Mac.
I kept running to the phone all morning,
and every time it rang I got that ..
Elevator going down feeling in my chest.
But it was never you.
I thought it never would be you.
Don't you know you should
never say that to a man.
Why not?
Well .. I'll tell you later.
What time am I calling
for you this evening?
Well, I don't know. You see ..
Helen thought that ..
- Now listen.
You and I have got to have a fight talk.
Now you promised me this evening,
and you can't go back on your word.
I'll be around at seven.
- Alright.
I'll be ready.
[ Buzzer ]
Hello, Lois.
- Hello, Mr McAllister.
Now if we go together,
it had better be "Mac".
Alright, Mac.
- And we'd better hurry.
Well, I'm ready. Oh, I'm so excited.
All day, I kept thinking
maybe you didn't mean it.
Anything I tell you, I mean.
Come on.
- Wait a minute, my compact.
Would you carry it, please?
And my handkerchief.
I haven't got an evening bag and
my daytime one is a kind of alligator.
Sure. Come on, we'll have a lot of fun.
Is that to your liking, sir?
- Ah, that's excellent.
Gosh, I'm hungry.
- Good.
Wasn't that little fellow a scream, Mac.
May I have my handkerchief, please?
I always cry when I laugh so hard.
- There you are.
You dance beautifully, Lois.
- Do I really?
Really.
- I love to dance.
Oh Mac, must we go home?
- Oh yes, I think we'd better.
Taxi please.
- Look, couldn't we walk?
Oh please, Mac. All this
is such a thrill to me.
Of course.
The taxi is waiting, sir.
- Never mind the taxi.
Never mind the taxi.
See Chinatown!
Chinatown bus leaving right away!
Uptown to Chinatown.
A complete round trip for one dollar.
See Chinatown! We're leaving right away.
Step right in, you lucky
people. All ready to go.
Full?
So full I'll never eat another
thing as long as I live.
Ah well, that's a little
trick the chow mein has.
Now young lady, let's
get down to business.
What about this Delaware thing?
Well, Helen is very tired.
She doesn't like ..
- Alright. Now let me talk.
Now I'm not criticizing Helen.
I've .. I've admired her for years.
She's a very important
person. But so are you.
Me?
Yes. To yourself, you should be the
most important person in the world.
Don't give way easily. You know, you'll
get like a shivery little dog. You know?
The kind that expects
a beating and gets one.
Last night I was a horse.
You've got to learn to stand
on your own two feet.
Four!
Now, no wisecracks. Even against Helen
you've got to stand up for your rights.
She's beautiful and your mother.
But she's looking after herself
as everyone should do.
Yes, I suppose she is.
Certainly. Tell Helen you
don't want to go to Delaware.
You are nineteen.
You are too old for school and camp.
Why you haven't been
anywhere or seen anything.
You know, it's healthy to want
some kind of life for yourself.
Being a misfit is bad business.
I like you.
What you say is true.
Don't forget it.
I won't, Mac.
Let's go home .. check.
I'll see you soon, Lois.
I may call you tomorrow.
Tell me now whether you will or
not because I'll stay in until you do.
Didn't I tell you never
to say that to a man?
Why not?
- Well .. I'll tell you later.
Goodnight .. thanks for a grand evening.
Me? Oh thank you, Mac.
I've never had such fun in all my life.
Going down?
Goodnight.
- Goodnight.
Down.
There you are, dear.
But it was such fun
having dinner with Mac.
And going to the theatre and
dancing and Chinatown.
I can't go back.
- But, Lois.
I've made a great effort to keep
you in school. It hasn't been easy.
But I'm too old, Helen.
- Too old?
You're only a baby.
- Oh no. Really I'm not.
I'm a misfit in school.
- But, Lois.
I lead such a crazy life. I must dear,
as I'm in the theater, and that's why ..
Look .. look Helen.
I won't be in the way.
I'll clean my own room.
I'll make my bed. Just let me stay.
When I told Mac that I had
to go, he said I shouldn't.
He said I should have some kind of life
of my own. Go somewhere, see something.
And Mac is right, Helen.
Really, Mac is right.
Mac .. Mac!
Lois.
Have you talked this over with Mac?
Yes.
I didn't know it was a secret.
- A secret?
Of course it's not a secret.
Mac, this is a tub of your vile
stuff. And it is perfectly vile.
I'm sorry, Helen.
Then we can't have your endorsement?
You may go, Dilly.
- Yes, Miss.
Sit down.
- Thank you.
Mind if I smoke a pipe?
- Why, no.
You've been seeing a deal
of my daughter lately.
Yes, I have.
Not as often as I'd like.
Giving her a deal of advice, too.
Which she quickly repeats as she hasn't
an ounce of deception in her being.
How does my advice sound?
Well .. it's alright for you, Mac.
And alright for her, but not so
good for Helen Walbridge.
That's why you asked me
to come here, isn't it?
You want me to stop telling Lois
not to allow herself to be kept ..
Well, a secret.
Good heavens, Helen. Do you realize you
can't sacrifice that kid to your vanity?
She's too alive.
You can't keep her hidden.
What I do with my daughter
is distinctly my business.
All I want you to do
is to leave her alone.
I can tell you, Helen, how sorry
I am that she is your daughter.
As a matter of fact I'm sorry now that
I came that night and found her there.
But she is, and I did.
Well, there you are.
You know.
I thought that you may realize something
that Lois is too young to understand.
That a woman in the theater with
a daughter nineteen years of age.
Can't possibly walk out on stage
and convince an audience that she ..
Audience?
Are you going to tell me that you'll
put the kid away in a girl's school ..
For the rest of her life because you're
afraid an audience may laugh at you?
Oh, Helen. You can't
hold that against her.
Just because she happens to be
nineteen and too big to show around.
You listen to me.
I married when I was sixteen years old.
My husband died.
He left me a frightened girl with a baby
on my hands and 10 dollars in the world.
I've played in every stage company
from Toronto to Louisville.
I've struggled for nineteen
years to get where I am.
And neither you, not she, nor anyone ..
Anyone is going to stand in my way now.
I think I know what's best
for Lois to be, and to do.
Helen, I've not the faintest right to
sit and tell you these things, but ..
Here goes.
Now, everyone in this world
has someone to turn to.
And .. well, because
she is such a sweet kid.
I've appointed myself her guardian.
A watchdog, if you like.
At any rate, I'm not going
to let you send her to jail.
And if you do ..
I'm going to advertize the fact
better than that roach paste.
Now that's vicious enough isn't it.
Beware of the dog.
Lois.
Yes, Helen.
- I've decided.
To stop robbing myself of a
thing I've wanted for a long time.
Having you here.
Having you meet my friends.
Oh Helen. Do you mean it?
We'll give a tea, Sunday. At Sherry's.
I wish I could ..
Mr McAllister.
- I'm terribly busy.
Well, there's a Miss Lois
Johnson to see you.
Who?
Miss Johnson. I told her you were busy.
- Well, I'm not busy.
Hello Lois, come right in.
I know you're awfully busy.
Not at all. I was just waiting
for the whistle to blow.
Mac, I had to tell you. I can stay.
I don't have to go back.
And Helen is giving a
tea for me on Sunday.
Well, isn't that swell.
- Isn't it, though.
Mac, there is just one thing.
I feel sort of silly asking you about
it, but Helen's got a matinee and ..
I need an afternoon dress
for the party, you see.
Yes.
Well do you know anybody
that would be good for me?
Well, I'm not much of a
dressmaker's pal, but ..
I do know one woman. A client of ours.
Would you send me to her?
- I'll take you to her.
No, Mac. It would be too much trouble.
No trouble at all. I'm going to get
you the swell-est dress in town.
Oh Mr McAllister.
- Can't you see I'm busy?
Madame Franois will see you now.
- Thank you.
Hello Eve.
- Hiya, Mac.
It's no use asking me
for money. I can't pay.
Skip it. I want you to do me a favor.
Oh, I'll skip it .. ask away.
I've Helen Walbridge's daughter with me.
Helen Walbridge's daughter?
Daughter?
- Yes.
Where?
- Outside.
Well, well.
She's been away at school.
- I'll bet she has.
For years and years.
Leave it to Helen.
- Listen.
All she wants is one
nice afternoon dress.
Now, you watch those prices, you pirate.
- Alright.
A sweet-looking kid, Mac.
- Yes.
I don't blame you a bit.
You cover a lot of ground, don't you?
From generation to generation,
at a .. moment's notice.
I'm sorry.
Eve, this is Miss Johnson.
Lois, Madame Franois.
- How do you do. - How do you do.
Do you think you can do
something about these long legs?
Long legs are a dressmaker's
dream, my dear.
You want an afternoon dress?
Yes. A special tea-party dress.
I do want to look nice in it.
You will.
Where did ..? Oh, here they are.
I think that would be lovely for you.
Oh Mac, it's beautiful.
Pretty, isn't it?
Darling, Franois is always good.
This one is .. nice.
Oh, by the way.
You'd better get letters
in for the Junior League.
The committee is meeting
next week, you know.
Junior League?
Why yes, of course.
Oh, Russ.
Wasn't that a divine orchestra at
Mimi's party the other night?
It was nice.
- Oh.
Come on, let's sit down.
Mother, do I really have to
ask Lois to go out with me?
Frederick, Lois is a very nice girl.
Yes I know, but she's so tall.
Why, we'd look funny dancing together.
We accepted this invitation.
A thing for you to do.
My dear, your daughter is charming.
Indeed she is, Helen. You ought
to be very, very proud of her.
I am.
It's so nice having her here with me.
They are a great comfort
to have around, aren't they.
Oh yes indeed.
A lovely party, Helen.
- Thank you.
Hello, Austin.
- Hello Mac.
You will find Lois over there.
I know she's waiting for
her guide and philosopher.
Thank you.
It would be so nice for Lois to
have someone to take her around.
The poor darling. I'm afraid she hasn't
had much attention from dancing men.
And it is so important
when you're in your teens.
Well, it's a lucky man who has
a chance to dance with Lois.
Does she dance nicely?
- Oh beautifully.
Oh, I'm so glad.
Well.
Run along Mac and amuse the child.
I know she's been watching the door,
counting the moments until you arrived.
Oh Helen, you're too flattering.
Mac!
I thought you were never coming. I've
been watching the door all afternoon.
Lois, never say that to a man.
Why not?
- Well, I'll tell you later.
Hello, Russell.
- Mac.
Babs, you know Stuart McAllister.
I think so.
Were you at the Haven's
party that night?
No. I've served my time at dead parties.
Now I have my carpet slippers,
my memories, my books and my pipe.
Oh.
- Lois ..
Remember darling, we're
lunching at the Chatham at one.
Mac, do you like my dress?
I think your dress is beautiful.
And you look beautiful in it.
Lois, I thought perhaps you
might like to go someplace ..
I say, will you pardon me?
Oh sure.
Will you go to the Thursday evening
dance at the Waldorf with me?
Thank you very much.
Thank you.
I'll call for you at eight.
Lois, wouldn't you like
to go someplace ..
Excuse me, please. I won't be a moment.
Lois, I was just saying
to your sweet mother ..
That I will send you a card to my
granddaughter's tea on the 2nd.
That's very kind of you Mrs Reynolds.
Lois ..
I'm booked for that, too.
Shall we go together?
Thank you very much.
- Fine.
Oh say, there is Mimi Sheldon.
Excuse us will you please, Mac.
I want Lois to meet her.
Oh sure.
Darrell, you may serve the cocktails.
Will you excuse me, please?
Aha ..
Excuse me.
That's perfectly alright.
Do you know the Wiseman twins?
No.
The music is nice, isn't it.
Yes. It's glorious.
Ooh!
- Oh, I'm so sorry.
My heel is coming off.
Will you excuse me, please?
Why, yes.
You're a fine one. You knew
I wanted you to cut in on me.
Oh, I wondered why you were waving.
I feel like I've been dancing
at the Empire State Building.
Come on, let's get a drink.
- Swell.
Come on, give me a whiskey
and soda quick. I'm dying.
Make it two.
- What happened to you?
Oh, I've been stuck dancing with
that Walbridge kid for years.
Stuck?
- Yeah. No-one cuts in.
You're crazy.
She's the best-looking girl here.
Where is she?
- I don't know.
She's nine feet tall and
doesn't know anyone.
That's why no-one cuts in.
She's beautiful, though.
I wouldn't care whether
she's the Venus De Milo.
If no-one cuts in, then
you're stuck with a dud.
Come on, where's my whiskey
and soda? Hey, make it quick!
A whiskey and soda .. I'm dying.
Thank you.
- Is that all, Miss?
Yes, thanks. I'd like to
stay here for a while.
Oh, that's quite alright.
Oh, what a pretty pink.
It's for my sister's baby.
Boy or a girl?
A boy, sure enough.
And a mean little devil.
How old is he?
- Eighteen months.
But he's too big to handle now.
I've got a picture of him.
- Oh, let me see it.
Ain't you going to dance, Miss?
Oh, not just for a while.
Oh, isn't he cute?
And he's the rolli-est,
polli-est little man.
Will you see that gets off right away.
- Yes, sir.
A telegram for Miss Johnson.
- For me?
Is there an answer, Miss?
- No. No thank you.
Yes .. yes, there is an answer.
May I have a blank and a pencil?
- Yes, ma'am.
Wait.
Is there an answer, Miss?
Oh yes.
If you please.
Say, I'm all out of blanks. You got one?
Ain't I been here once
before today, Miss?
Oh yes, yes.
Is there an answer, Miss?
No.
Not this time.
I'll change the station.
Oh, I like that.
Are you frozen?
- No.
Well, how is the dizzy world?
Parties? - Yeah.
- Why, they're pretty awful.
Really?
Well, they're lovely parties,
but I don't know anybody.
Every time I start dancing with
a boy I'm stuck with him for hours.
What do you do?
Oh, I just go to the dressing
room and fix my hair.
Why, The maids at Pierre,
The Waldorf and The Ritz ..
Know me better than anyone in New York.
Why do you go to these parties?
Oh, I can't stop hoping.
I keep thinking that maybe
next one will be better.
It never is.
- Well.
You'll get into the hang of it.
Mac.
- Yeah?
I want to ask you something.
Fire away.
What should I do about .. kissing?
You know, it's getting to
be a problem really.
Schoolgirls never ..
Now, at home .. the
boys seem to expect it.
Well, I don't know, Lois. I mean ..
It's something you've
got to figure out yourself.
You sound sort-of cross.
- No I'm not. Except that ..
It's just none of my business.
And I happen to like you and I ..
Well, I wouldn't want you to think
you're making yourself cheap.
No, Mac. I ..
Have you been going in
for this in a big way?
Of course not.
I'm sorry I mentioned it.
Take me now will you please.
Well listen, Lois.
- I'm awfully tired.
Really I am, Mac. Take me home please.
Oh, there you are.
Say, what is this? Hide and seek?
One sided. I hide but nobody seeks.
You're wrong.
I've been looking for you all night.
I like best listening to the music.
There's something better than that.
- What?
Dancing to it. Wouldn't
you like to dance?
I warn you, nobody will cut in.
I'm sure they won't. I won't let them.
Oh thanks. That is sweet of you.
Gosh, you dance well, Lois.
You mean we dance well together.
There you are. I look for you all night,
find you, and then it's all over.
I tell you what, let's get out of here
quick and go someplace, huh?
I couldn't. I came with Tom Bevan.
Never mind. Ditch him.
- That wouldn't be right.
I'll fix it up with him. You get
your wrap. I'll be right back.
Nothing.
Where are we going?
The Montmartre. You like it?
I've never been there.
- That's great. It's a swell place.
However there is liable to be someone
there who might want to dance with you.
I couldn't go for that.
Say, you're not doing anything
for lunch tomorrow are you?
As if you are, you'll have to break it.
- Now Russ, I ..
Helen.
Yes, dear?
Supposing a man kissed a girl and ..
And she didn't love him. Would
she like having him kiss her?
What are you talking about, darling?
I can't answer questions
about a girl and a man.
The girl is me, of course.
And the man?
It seems mean to tell on him.
- Oh nonsense, darling.
Well .. it's Russ Gray.
Russell Gray has been
making love to you?
Yes.
Well, he's very charming.
Yes he is, isn't he.
Are you in love with him, dear?
Well, Helen.
That's what I don't know.
I hardly ever talked to
him before last night, and ..
I never thought much about
any man except Mac.
And Russell kissed me and I liked it.
I've been remembering
ever since what it was like.
Helen.
Do you think that means
I'm in love with him?
Well, darling ..
You're very sensitive.
If you didn't like Russell.
I don't think you'd have
allowed him to kiss you.
Yes, dear.
I think you are in love with him.
Helen.
He's one of the very nicest
young men in New York.
And comes from one of
the very best families.
Darling, I think Russell could make
you make you very, very happy.
But .. Helen, I don't understand it.
Before last night, I was thinking
of Mac nearly all the time.
Mac?
But you couldn't possibly
fall in love with Mac, dear.
After all, Mac is ..
Well, he's just like a brother.
He's one of your best friends.
Yes.
Yes, he is isn't he.
- Of course.
Oh, I can't quite realize it.
Maybe it's not true.
Maybe I'm just imagining that Russell ..
- No, darling.
No, I'm sure you're not.
Hello, Mac.
I've been trying to get you all
afternoon. Where have you been?
Can I see you right away?
It's awfully important.
Why yes, Lois. I'll meet you.
Oh, no, no, no.
I don't want a lot of people around.
Can I come over to your apartment?
Well, I'd rather you wouldn't.
I, uh ..
Hello?
Hello, Lois?
[ Door knocks ]
Come in.
Hello, Mac.
- Hello, Lois.
Sorry I hung up on you but I wanted
to get over here as quickly as I could.
Anything wrong?
Oh no. Gosh, this is nice.
May I look around?
Sure. If you can stand it.
Oh.
Hmm .. you're intelligent.
- Thank you very much.
You are very welcome.
Oh, what's this?
That's tapa. It comes from Samoa.
Oh, I'd love to travel.
See all these things.
I'd like to.
- What?
Nothing.
Oh do you mind if I make a remark?
- No.
Well, I think this chair ought
to be done in solid colors.
I'll remember that.
Oh, are you old fashioned.
Ah, never mind that. Tell me ..
What's it all about?
- I'm engaged.
Well, I wanted to tell you
first. Aren't you glad?
Sure.
What's his name?
- Russell Gray.
Oh yes.
A nice boy.
- Oh, he's a darling.
I didn't think he was in love me.
Really I mean. But he is.
He says he fell in love with
me the first time he met me.
Are you in love with him?
- Why, of course.
Oh Mac, I'm so excited.
Well, you've been in love, haven't you?
Oh sure. Dozens of times.
When are you getting married?
Well, the engagement is going
to be announced next week.
Then I'm going up to spend time
with his mother in the country.
I met her this afternoon.
She was darling to me.
Why that's fine, Lois.
And you know how happy
I want you to be, don't you?
Why of course, Mac.
You're the best friend I have.
Except Russell.
Oh but that's different. He's in love
with me. You're the best friend I have.
Don't you understand?
- Why, sure.
Of course I understand, Lois.
I was in the building to see
old Patterson, mother's lawyer.
So I thought I'd drop in.
- I'm glad you did, Russ.
Yeah, I want to thank you
for that note, Mac and ..
Tell you I hope I get to know
you as well as Lois does.
I guess if it was anybody else
I'd be as jealous as the devil.
No thanks. I know that
Lois boosts all her pals.
Yeah, she certainly does.
Say Mac, if you get a chance,
why not come to the lodge?
Well, I'd like to, but they've
got a ring in my nose here.
That's too bad. We won't be in
New York very long after we're married.
I thought perhaps we could get together.
I'd love to any time.
But you know, I'm a devoted slave
of your fiance, like everybody else.
Sure, well so long.
- So long.
And if we don't see you
when we get back to town ..
I'll look you up before you go.
- Yeah, do that will you.
Say hello to Lois for me.
- You bet.
And have a swell time.
- So long.
Hey.
- What?
Are you in a coma or something?
Yes .. I mean, come in.
We .. we've got work to do.
Miss Lois Johnson.
Daughter of the late Mr Ralph
Johnson. Mr Johnson died in 1918.
Educated in Miss Charlton's School
For Girls near Springfield.
Not too much off the sides.
Well, just a moment please,
and I'll find out. Darling ..
Can you possibly have the time
for photographing today?
I don't know. I guess so, Helen.
Oh yes.
You have a fitting at two
and tea with Russell at four.
Hello?
Yes, she'll be sent to
the photographers at 5:30.
Thank you very much.
Is it the white satin and
the sheer black, Miss Johnson?
Yes, I'd like that.
You'd better ask mother.
I mean, Miss Walbridge.
You're ring is gorgeous, Miss Johnson.
It is lovely, isn't it.
I can't quite realize it's mine.
A big diamond like that doesn't
seem to go with me somehow.
You're too modest. You carry it fine.
Thank you.
Here you are, Miss.
Oh isn't that .. oh, aren't I nice.
Darling, be sure to make an appointment
before Saturday, as you go to the Grays.
Yes, dear. I know.
- Let me see.
This coming Friday. Oh no,
that's the Sheldon cocktail party.
Never mind, Louis. I will telephone.
- Very good, madam.
Flowers for Miss Lois.
Oh! From Russell.
Aren't they lovely.
- Oh, may I?
Oh, they are beautiful.
It's quite a business being
engaged, isn't it, Sweet?
Very.
Everything is going
along very nicely, dear.
About your election to the town club.
I'm so glad, Mrs Gray.
- Oh, Lois.
I mean "mother Emily".
Haven't you proposed her to
the Patriotic Daughters?
Oh that's true.
Lois dear, we'll have to have
a little talk about your family.
You had ancestors in the
revolution, didn't you?
I'm afraid I ..
Mother, is this necessary?
The Patriotic Daughters ..
It's a very nice connection for a
young woman just starting in New York.
I came in on Jonathan Edwards.
You see, dear.
You use some old, old
stiff as a springboard ..
To land you in a select circle.
They don't care what you are.
But if your Grandpa or folks took a
pot-shot at the British, you're in.
Quiet, Russell.
I'm sorry mother, but it bores me stiff.
What was your father, dear?
A banker, wasn't he?
No .. he was a florist.
He had a little shop in Saint Paul.
Let's go for a walk, Lois.
Alright.
Will you excuse me, please?
Excuse us.
Russell.
Why was your mother upset when
I said my father was a florist?
I've always thought it
was a grand thing to be.
Don't pay any attention to them, Sweet.
They're just a little cranky
about family. That's all.
Maybe they prefer uncle Horace.
He was a banker.
He's in hiding now in Persia.
But I so want them to like me and I
always seem to say the wrong thing.
Don't say anything.
You know dear, I haven't
been alone with you for hours.
Russell. Talk to me, please.
That's all I want to say.
Oh Lois darling, I'm crazy about you.
Say you'll love me, Lois.
- Of course I do, Russell, but ..
But, but, but ..
[ Telephone ]
Hello?
Yes, I'm ready at this end.
Hello, Helen.
Oh darling, I had to call you.
It's really awful here.
But Helen, I tell you they
don't like me at all.
Everything is wrong with me.
I can't play bridge and ..
They're always talking about
ancestors and I haven't got any.
Helen .. do I have to stay?
But of course you must stay, Lois.
Don't act like a silly child.
You and Russell haven't
quarreled, have you?
Oh no .. no, no.
I just get very lonely sometimes
for someone to talk to.
Darling, I know it's difficult, but try
and be sensible. It's only for 2 weeks.
I'm sure you can adjust yourself.
Mr Stevens. He's waiting for you.
- Thank you.
Darling, I must go now. I'm so late.
I'm sure you'll feel
better in the morning.
Helen.
Excuse me, Miss. I didn't
know you was in here.
That's alright, I ..
I don't want to go downstairs just yet.
Excuse me Miss .. but ..
Isn't Helen Walbridge your mother?
Yes.
Oh, that's wonderful.
You've seen her?
Oh sure, lots of times.
One of the other girls and me go all
the time when the family is in town.
Oh really?
- Uhuh.
We have to wait a long time
though until we can get seats.
You see it takes a long time to get
seats for a Helen Walbridge show.
Tell me Miss, which part
do you like her best in?
Well .. I've only seen Helen,
my mother, in two plays.
Oh ..
Margaret!
You have quite enough
work to keep you busy.
Yes, ma'am.
But mother Emily, it was me ..
- Never mind, Lois.
Lois.
I'm afraid I shall have to ask you
not to gossip with the servants.
Well it wasn't gossip, exactly.
- Not to ask a maid to sit with you?
You've been home so little since you
grew up, that you don't quite realize ..
Mother Emily, I ..
It's all over now. And we
won't refer to it again.
[ Door knocks ]
Who is it?
It's me, dear. I'm waiting for you.
Just a minute, Russell.
I've waited, darling. I thought
we were going to the village.
Oh I'm sorry dear,
but it's awfully late.
I don't feel much like it.
Lois, what's wrong with you?
You've been crying.
- Oh, nothing.
Oh Russell. Everything.
I'm really in terrible
trouble about your family.
My family?
- Yes. They don't like me.
Oh nonsense. They're crazy about you.
No they're not.
I'm lonely, Russell.
I want to talk to someone
I've known a long time.
Well, talk to me, Sweet.
- No I can't, because ..
Dear, because they are your family.
Anyway.
I'm sending for Mac.
Oh.
Why?
Because he's my best
friend. And Helen's.
He's an old, old friend of Helen's.
I thought .. if I could see him, I ..
He would help me.
- Help you?
Why can't you tell me, Lois?
Oh Russell, I've tried
to dozens of times.
Don't you understand?
If I could just .. talk it
all out with Mac, why ..
Everything would be alright.
Don't you see, dear?
Yes .. I guess so.
Hello, Lois .. this is Mac.
Mac!
I'm so glad to hear your voice.
How are you?
I'm down at The Birches.
Yes. You wait outside
for me. I'll be right down.
I'm so glad.
Russell, guess what?
Mac is down at The Birches.
- So he came up, huh?
Yes. Do come down and meet him.
- I know him, Lois.
I know. But just to say hello.
He's so nice, really.
I'd rather not, dear.
I'm going to play some golf.
Oh, just for a moment.
- I'll see him later, dear.
Alright, dear.
Goodbye.
Goodbye.
Mac!
- Lois.
Oh gosh, you're good for sore eyes.
Lois, never say that to a ..
- I know.
You're going to tell me why
I shouldn't say that, later.
Mac!
Can't we talk here?
- Sure, if you want to.
Too crowded?
- Yeah.
I got a grand idea. Come on.
Want a canoe, sir?
- Yes, please. - Right this way.
Have you seen Helen?
- No.
But I saw a beautiful picture of
you in The Times Photo Review.
You did?
- Yep.
I always laughed at those pictures
and now I am one of them.
Canoe is ready.
Can I paddle, Mac?
No, no. I didn't come all the way from
New York just to get dumped in the lake.
I wouldn't dump you.
- There you are.
It's a doubtful looking day.
We'd better stick close in.
You sure you won't be cold?
- Oh no.
You sure?
- I feel fine. - Good.
Oh, I know.
I tried some of that
Mignon cream of yours.
To get the freckles off my nose.
- Those freckles?
Yes. They're still here though. See?
What did you want to talk about, Lois?
- Oh, I don't know.
When I wrote to you,
I wanted to ask your advice.
Now, you're here.
I guess I just wanted to see you.
I don't know how seeing my
mug could straighten things out.
It does for me.
Mac.
You see, the Grays are
such a proper family.
Ah, so that's it.
Well, never mind.
Russell's opinion is
the only important one.
He wants to marry you.
You just keep thinking about that.
- Oh, I do.
At least, I try to.
You'll be married shortly, won't you?
- The end of June.
Oh, I want to be happy, Mac.
I want to be a good wife.
Have a nice house.
Some children.
Sure. You'll make out alright.
You'll make a wonderful wife.
Look at that sky.
We'd better be starting in.
- It certainly is black.
Where is the Grays from here?
- Over at the dock.
That way?
That's right.
- Here she comes.
Oh Mac, I love it.
Maybe, but you're not getting
any chills on account of me.
Hey mother Emily will be crazy
about our coming in like this.
Oh, she'll understand.
Hoo!
Hello, mother Emily. You're lucky
not to be caught in this storm.
You don't know Mac, do you?
Mrs Gray, this is Mr McAllister.
Hello.
Where is Russell?
- Russell?
Yes child. Of course, Russell.
He left here almost a
half hour ago to find you.
He was nearly frantic.
Oh dear, I'm so sorry. I told him ..
I mean, he knew that I'd sent for Mac to
come down from New York to see me.
And there was no need to worry.
Do you mean to say that
you asked Mr McAllister?
Oh, mother!
Is she back?
Oh Lois, I searched the lake for you.
Where on earth could you have been?
Hello Mac.
- Hello, Russ.
I'm very sorry I got
Lois in the rain like this.
Alright, but I wish you'd
kept your eyes open.
Lois, I hope you won't catch cold.
- Oh no, I'm not wet. Not very.
Lois, dear.
Of course, any friend of yours
is welcome here at any time.
And I know that young people look
at things quite differently nowadays.
But won't you please explain?
- Explain what, mother Emily?
Do I understand that you
sent for Mr McAllister?
Yes .. Mac's my oldest friend.
Whenever I get sort
of stuck or in trouble.
I like to talk to him.
What was this trouble, dear?
Why did you feel you
needed Mr McAllister?
Oh nothing, mother.
It was just some silly idea.
Mrs Gray, Lois and I are friends.
It's that she's used to
confiding in me. That's all.
Mac, please don't apologize for me.
I've done nothing wrong.
Russell, don't you see how
badly this looks for your fiance?
Well, it's just that Lois is very
unconventional, mother.
Russell.
I told you that Mac was
coming down here.
If you didn't like it, you
should have told me then.
Well you might have consulted
me, Lois. After all, this is my house.
Yes, mother Emily, I realize that.
But I had no intention
of bringing Mac here.
And where did you propose to see him?
Now just a moment, Mrs Gray.
I don't think you understand.
You are quite right, Mr McAllister.
I don't understand.
A young girl engaged to one
man and seen out with another.
And her marriage a short time away.
Lois will learn when she's a little
older just how badly some things look.
I'll never learn to
care how things look.
Russell.
You've been hoping I've
changed, haven't you?
Well, you're very young dear.
You're too unsophisticated to realize ..
Realize the thoughts people have?
I don't want to realize that.
I don't care.
- You must care.
But I don't. Don't you see?
Oh Russell, all this time I thought
you were in love with me and ..
You were saying this is awful,
this is terrible, but you'll change.
Oh no Lois, you're saying
things you don't mean now.
I do mean them.
I'll always mean them.
Oh Mac.
Take me home.
I don't belong here.
Are you sure you're alright?
- Yes.
You were crying again in the car.
- I know.
I was afraid that ..
- No. It's alright.
It's hard to explain, really.
- Never mind.
Chin up.
Go on.
Hello darling.
- Lois.
What on earth ..?
Will you pardon me, please.
I didn't expect you home so soon.
I sent for Mac and he brought me home.
It was all very sudden.
Where is Russell? Isn't he ..?
- No.
I'm not going to see Russell anymore.
I'm afraid you'll have to excuse me.
I seem to have a silly little
lover's quarrel to smooth out.
No, Helen.
We must run along.
And I sincerely hope that nothing
happens to spoil your triumphant year.
Oh no, my dear. Everything seems
so very important when one is young.
Yes. Goodbye, Helen.
- Goodbye.
See you soon, Helen.
- Goodbye, Bob.
Helen, I don't know quite
how to say it, but ..
Steady.
- Don't be funny.
I'm not upset.
It's just a question of
discipline. That's all.
I wonder.
You now, sometimes our wisest
turns for other people ..
Aren't quite so wise after all.
I suppose I should go too.
But I'll stay if you don't mind.
You'll understand why ..
- I hope so.
Now, try to tell me coherently ..
For what ridiculous reason you
rushed home from the Grays?
It's not a ridiculous reason ..
- A silly spat with Russell?
Much more.
You humiliated Russell, yourself
and me before these people.
You broadcast it all over New York that
you and your fiance have quarrelled.
You asked me and I told you.
Where's your sense of proportion?
That's what I'm trying to ..
Helen. That's just what
I'm trying to tell you.
I was all mixed up.
I liked having my pictures taken, and
new clothes, and being made a fuss of.
But all that doesn't mean anything.
Giving your promise means something?
- I'm not in love with Russell.
I couldn't marry him.
All because you made him a bit jealous.
Naturally, Russell resented you sent
for Mac. You had no right to do that.
Mother, don't talk like that.
I just realized I was marrying someone
because he makes love nicely.
Marriage is more than that.
Marriage lasts all your life.
Russell has everything that a girl
wants in a man she marries.
Not for me.
Mother, I keep telling you.
Russell and I don't like each other.
Would you mind leaving us alone?
No.
- Right.
I wish I could stay, Lois.
I wish that I could be you and you
could be me for the next 15 minutes.
You will listen to Lois, won't you.
And try to understand.
I think we've both taken all the advice
from you, Mr McAllister that we mean to.
Mother!
- Goodbye.
Helen.
The way I feel about Mac.
That's the way one should
feel about one's husband.
Mac?
- Yes.
I love Mac.
Has Mac made love to you?
- No.
But he loves me.
I know he loves me.
How do you know?
- I can tell.
I think Mac has loved
me for a very long time.
Doesn't it seem at all strange that
he's never mentioned it to you?
No. He was waiting until I'd seen some
things, met people outside of school.
Oh, he must have been terribly hurt
when I told him about my engagement.
I wish I had known about it then.
So you think that Mac has loved
you from the first time he saw you?
Yes, I do.
Think back to the first time.
Oh, I remember. I remember the way
he looked and everything he said.
Well, let me remind of some of
the things you don't remember.
What?
You didn't let him
in that night, did you?
No. I was lying here on the couch
reading. I looked up and there he was.
He opened the door with a latch-key?
Yes.
Well, where do you think he got it?
Why, I ..
- What did he say?
That he was ..
He was waiting for you.
Yes.
The elevator man had given him the key.
Elevator men don't give people keys.
Helen.
He's the man you've thrown
Russell over for. - Don't.
It's Russell who loves you.
Who has a right to love you.
You don't have to keep on
saying it over and over.
Lois, you mustn't ..
I won't listen. I won't!
I won't .. I won't!
Lois .. Lois ..
Take me down, please.
Thanks Dan. I'll let you have
it back in just a minute.
Let me out of here!
Now wait a minute.
- Let me out.
Where you going?
Anywhere as long as I'm
away from you and Helen.
Oh now Lois. Just a moment, please.
I don't know what Helen said to you.
But if it's anything concerning
Helen and myself, it's not true.
Now just a moment.
Look at me.
Mac.
- I love you.
0h don't. How can you say that?
I can say it to you with
my whole heart and soul.
I love you, Lois.
And you know I'd never
lie to you, don't you?
And I know I've never done anything.
That can prevent me from saying again.
I love you.
You do believe me, don't you?
Mac.
Don't you?
Yes, I believe you.
Mac, I love you so much.
That's the way to talk to a man.
[ Door knocks ]
Come in.
I can't come in.
That's all I wanted to know.
-- T-g --
That's all we have for the next four
weeks. You might try the agency.
Have you anything for
next Saturday's matinee?
Standing room only. No, I'm sorry.
How can I live, and breathe
and eat and sleep?
And go on talking and smiling.
Go on pretending.
Yes, that's it.
Go on pretending that I'm alive.
How shall I forget you?
And if I could forget.
How shall I forgive myself?
I've made my life .. and I've broken it.
In this one small corner.
And in this corner.
I shall end it.
Love gone.
You gone.
Everything gone.
She always makes me cry.
Don't you think she looks like me?
- What?
Round the eyes, I mean.
Oh yes. Yes.
That yellow dress she's wearing
is kind of cute, honey.
I look awful good in yellow.
Say, isn't that Austin Stevens
the broker, over there?
Yes. Why?
He backed this show.
Oh.
So he's the Walbridge money, eh?
- Why not?
I'd like to have a piece of it.
A nice fellow, Stevens.
Dumb as a fox.
Hello Mac.
- How are you?
Did you like it?
- The play? - Yeah.
Sorry.
Ah, but did you see them crying?
I heard them. She's lovely, isn't she.
Crying as though their
little hearts would break.
And the whole thing is just a
big dish of unmitigated tripe.
Yes, but you made them believe it.
- But that's talent, boy. Great talent.
By the way, you're coming
to my party tonight?
Well ..
You must come. Helen
will be looking for you.
Well, it's very nice of you
Stevens, but after all ..
Nonsense, nonsense. I love to suffer.
Besides, it will give me a good
chance of doing away with you.
Well, that's very flattering.
- Unfortunately, it's true.
You are putting the skids under
an old man's life, my boy.
But anything for Helen.
Now you say that you'll come and
I'll resist my wilder impulses.
And I won't poison you.
Well thank you. That's very kind of you.
- Not at all.
Oh no really, I was so
nervous in the third act.
You were lovely, Helen.
- No thank you.
That show will run 40 weeks, Helen.
- You really think so?
Absolutely. Didn't you hear
your public sobbing?
Oh, bless their hearts.
Did you cry, Mac?
- Like a baby. I dissolved.
Let me fill your glass.
No thanks. I'm drunk on all the applause
and lovely things you've been saying.
But that's everyday stuff for you.
- Oh no, no.
For years and years, the only sound
I heard was a slight hissing.
I don't believe it. When was that?
I'll tell you privately.
- Good.
Will you excuse us, Austin?
- Of course.
I'll have your poison sent right in.
Don't.
- No?
And I'll come back here in a moment.
- Alright. I'll clock you.
You know you're sweet, Austin.
- Uhuh.
Mac now, is just a caravan
that passes in the night.
I have to be polite to him.
But you. You're always
there. You're like ..
Lime the pyramids.
- The pyramids, huh?
And you're the Sphinx.
Perhaps I'll let you live another day.
- Thank you.
Will you excuse me?
Ah, he's a swell fellow.
What's troubling you, Mac?
Helen .. when am I going to see you?
Don't be so grim, Sweet.
You are seeing me now.
Oh, not like this.
You've never had dinner with me.
Don't be silly. You dine with
me at the Carlton Club.
Oh, I was there, but so
was the 7th Regiment ..
And 200 of your more intimate friends.
Won't you come and have dinner with me?
- Why don't you ask me nicely?
Helen, will you please
have dinner with me?
Yes.
- When?
Well, let me see. Next week. No.
How about Tuesday?
- Next Tuesday?
No, darling.
Well, then the Tuesday after?
- Three weeks from tonight.
Are you free three weeks from tonight?
Three weeks?
- Better write it down.
Three weeks from tonight.
- I beg your pardon, madam.
But I've been told to say that
your pyramid is waiting.
Thank you.
Yes, tonight.
And none of your sunburned
herring roe, Mario. I want caviar.
Ah, caviar.
The best Caviar, Mr McAllister.
We have kept it on ice
since it left Vladivostok.
Just smell, Mr McAllister.
Ah, that's fine. Now,
what about the soup?
How about the minestrone?
No, how many times ..
- Alright, alright.
How about mushroom?
No, no. Definitely, no.
Ah, I got it. I got it.
Turtle. Turtle soup. Nice clear cream.
Turtle? Yes, that's okay.
Mark it down, and bring it there.
And now Mr McAllister, for the entre?
I've a special idea.
- Well, let's hear it.
Chick a la Maryland.
Chicken. What's the matter
with liver and onions? Chicken.
Oh, squab.
Bring me the squab. Little bit of squab.
A little tiny squab.
A little nice squab.
That sounds better. Let's see them.
- Bring it here, the squab.
Here.
Oh, that's fine. That's alright.
Morning.
Morning.
Morning.
Good morning.
Good afternoon. How do you do?
We were just going to call the morgue.
One moment Chet my
boy and I'll be with you.
Get me Mario at The Trio. Thank you.
You're going to lunch now?
Ah temper, temper.
Now tell me, what's on your
so-called mind, my boy?
Nothing. Nothing at all.
I don't like to mess in such vulgar ..
Hello? Mario. This is Mr McAllister.
With the turtle soup,
I'd like a nice, dry sherry.
Yes, you got it?
Good, then I'll call you back.
Alright, Mr McAllister.
Oh this man is crazy.
Now you were saying?
Really, I hate to bring it up.
- Just a minute.
Get Tawley's the florist.
I want a corsage of three white
orchids sent to Miss Helen Walbridge.
Yes, at 112 East 63rd.
At six o'clock tonight.
Now?
- May I continue?
Do.
- Thank you.
If you pardon the advertizing business
for lifting its ugly head one moment.
Of course, I realize this
means nothing to you.
Give me that.
Oh, the Minion Lipstick account.
You remember it?
It means nothing to me.
- Nothing? You landed it.
Did I? Well, what do I
know about lipstick?
A simple boy.
Where are you taking Walbridge tonight?
To the Museum of Natural History?
You know this is the most charming
restaurant and the best soup.
You like it really?
- Oh, it's perfect.
Good. I know you'll
like the next course.
It's a speciality of Mario's.
- Oh, my dear ..
I'm sure it's a triumph
no matter what it is.
But unfortunately I shall never know.
Never know?
I've got to get back.
It's nearly 8 o'clock.
Darling, you've hardly
had anything to eat.
I know. It's a stupid business.
It doesn't make any allowances for fun.
A little green soup and a yellow cab.
What are you talking about?
Oh darling, only a little soup after
waiting three weeks just to look at you.
Stop that. I like to
have you look at me.
Oh, never mind, Mario.
You mean never mind
the salad? It's very nice.
Yes, I know. But take it
away, we're leaving.
You mean, you're going to leave now?
Yes.
What's the matter?
- Oh, nothing. Nothing.
Everything is hunky dory.
[ Italian language ]
[ Italian language ]
[ Italian language ]
Goodnight, Madame.
Goodnight, Mr McAllister.
Taxi.
Miss Walbridge is in
apartment 1201, sir.
Thank you, my lad.
Helen.
Helen!
Helen!
Oh.
Did I hurt you?
Oh no, no. No, I'm sorry.
Now don't you bend. I'll get the book.
There's your book.
- Thank you.
I didn't know Helen was
expecting anyone tonight.
When she was at the theater, she ..
- I know. She asked me to wait.
My name is Stewart McAllister.
How do you do?
Yes ..
Aren't you going to ask me to sit down?
Of course, yes. Do.
My manners aren't very good tonight.
There, you see. I told you.
I'm really in an awful dither because
I'm not supposed to be here.
No?
No. I told them I wasn't expected home
but I had to because of the quarantine.
Quarantine?
Yes, you see the whole school's
been quarantined because ..
Well it was scarlet fever Miss Gee
had all along and not the hives.
So they sent us home.
Oh don't be nervous. We weren't exposed.
Oh no, I'm not.
Now let's see if I can
put this thing together.
You're at boarding school. That's it?
Hmm. Miss Charlton's, near Springfield.
Yes .. and they sent you all home.
- Uhuh.
And your family didn't expect
you, so they weren't home.
So, you came over here to see Helen.
Oh, no .. no.
Helen is my family.
Helen is my mother.
Oh yes.
Helen is your mother?
- Yes.
You don't think she'll be angry, do you?
Why should she be?
- Well, do you know her very well?
Oh, pretty well.
She's lovely, isn't she.
- Yes.
Have you seen this picture of her?
- Oh yes.
I wish I were like her.
I'm always knocking things
over. I seem to be all legs.
Like a colt.
- A colt?
Oh yes. Like a horse.
In a drawing room.
But Helen is so graceful.
I wish I could brag about her.
Don't you?
- Oh no.
You know how funny kids are
about actress's children.
So Helen and I decided it would
be better not to tell anyone.
Mr Austin is the only one who knows.
Oh, I see.
My room-mate feels I've a crush on Helen
as I cut her pictures out of the papers.
Well, what do you do when your
mother comes to visit you?
Oh but she doesn't. That would
give it all away, don't you see?
I use my father's name. Johnson.
Oh, I see.
Well, do you like this school?
This Miss whatshername ..?
Well, I really graduated last year,
so all my good friends have left.
Helen thought I ought to stay
on for another year, but ..
I feel kind of left over.
I'm older than any of them
you see. I'm nineteen.
Are you really?
- Yes.
I feel sort of silly sometimes.
Especially when the boys from the
academy come over for the dances.
I'm taller than any of them.
See?
- Yes.
You don't smoke?
- No, thanks.
I didn't think you did.
Oh, I tried.
It always seemed to go
down the wrong way.
Yes, I imagine it would.
How do you know?
- Well, I guessed.
Tell me, what's your name?
- Lois.
Lois.
Are you going to stay long, Lois?
Well, that all depends on Helen.
As she's working, she might not like ..
Oh it isn't that she isn't fond
of me, because I know she is.
When she's working she likes
it quiet to rest and study.
Yes.
Tell me something.
You see New York much
since you've grown up?
No. Hardly any at all.
- Then why not stay a while?
Helen might ..
- Tell Helen you're going to stay.
No.
Save tomorrow night anyway,
and let's see some of our town.
Oh gosh, I'd love to.
- Then it's a go.
But Helen ..
Tell Helen you're going
to stay. Furthermore ..
Tell her I'm calling you in the morning
and I won't take no for an answer.
Oh, I wish you'd tell her I
couldn't wait because ..
Well, because of your being here.
But if you wanted to see her?
- Oh no, it's not important.
Then I'll tell her you dropped
in but it was nothing important.
Just say I knew she'd
rather be alone with you.
Oh, I ..
I got this key from the elevator man.
Yes, I'll leave it on the table.
- Alright.
What's the matter?
- You're taller than I am.
A coincidence.
You're the first man
I've met in ages, that is.
Then you're glad we met?
I've never liked anyone half so much.
Never say that to a man.
Why not?
- Well ..
I'll tell you later.
Goodnight.
- Goodnight.
Oh .. tomorrow.
Goodnight.
Oh Dan.
I've left my key at the theater.
Oh, did you, ma'am?
Dan, have you a passkey?
- Yes, ma'am.
Thank you, Dan. Goodnight.
- Goodnight, ma'am.
Lois.
Helen.
Helen!
Gosh, I'm glad to see you.
- But, Lois, what are you ..?
The whole school is quarantined.
They wouldn't let me stay.
Surely ..
They wouldn't let anyone stay.
I won't be in the way. Really, I won't.
Darling, it isn't a question
of your being in the way.
You know I'd love to have you here.
It's just that ..
Well, you know how things are.
I'm in the middle of the run.
There will be many people coming here
for parties. I know you won't enjoy it.
Oh you do understand, don't you, Sweet?
Yes. Yes, of course I understand.
It's what I explained to Mr McAllister.
Oh .. was he here?
Oh yes, I meant to tell you.
He said he wouldn't wait because he
knew you wanted to be alone with me.
He told me to tell you that the key ..
- Yes dear .. I found it.
Gosh, he's attractive.
I'll phone aunt Cora.
- And nice, too.
I'll phone aunt Cora in the morning.
She's opening her house in Delaware for
Christmas. She'll love having you there.
Helen, I don't want ..
- You'll have such fun.
It will be dreary for you here in town.
- Oh no, Helen. You see ..
Darling, I'm so tired.
Have breakfast with me at noon.
And we'll plan your trip.
Alright, mother.
That's a sweet girl. Goodnight, dear.
Goodnight, mother.
The first draft, Mr McAllister
of the Mignon booklet.
Oh, thank you.
[ Telephone ]
Hello?
Oh, Mac.
I kept running to the phone all morning,
and every time it rang I got that ..
Elevator going down feeling in my chest.
But it was never you.
I thought it never would be you.
Don't you know you should
never say that to a man.
Why not?
Well .. I'll tell you later.
What time am I calling
for you this evening?
Well, I don't know. You see ..
Helen thought that ..
- Now listen.
You and I have got to have a fight talk.
Now you promised me this evening,
and you can't go back on your word.
I'll be around at seven.
- Alright.
I'll be ready.
[ Buzzer ]
Hello, Lois.
- Hello, Mr McAllister.
Now if we go together,
it had better be "Mac".
Alright, Mac.
- And we'd better hurry.
Well, I'm ready. Oh, I'm so excited.
All day, I kept thinking
maybe you didn't mean it.
Anything I tell you, I mean.
Come on.
- Wait a minute, my compact.
Would you carry it, please?
And my handkerchief.
I haven't got an evening bag and
my daytime one is a kind of alligator.
Sure. Come on, we'll have a lot of fun.
Is that to your liking, sir?
- Ah, that's excellent.
Gosh, I'm hungry.
- Good.
Wasn't that little fellow a scream, Mac.
May I have my handkerchief, please?
I always cry when I laugh so hard.
- There you are.
You dance beautifully, Lois.
- Do I really?
Really.
- I love to dance.
Oh Mac, must we go home?
- Oh yes, I think we'd better.
Taxi please.
- Look, couldn't we walk?
Oh please, Mac. All this
is such a thrill to me.
Of course.
The taxi is waiting, sir.
- Never mind the taxi.
Never mind the taxi.
See Chinatown!
Chinatown bus leaving right away!
Uptown to Chinatown.
A complete round trip for one dollar.
See Chinatown! We're leaving right away.
Step right in, you lucky
people. All ready to go.
Full?
So full I'll never eat another
thing as long as I live.
Ah well, that's a little
trick the chow mein has.
Now young lady, let's
get down to business.
What about this Delaware thing?
Well, Helen is very tired.
She doesn't like ..
- Alright. Now let me talk.
Now I'm not criticizing Helen.
I've .. I've admired her for years.
She's a very important
person. But so are you.
Me?
Yes. To yourself, you should be the
most important person in the world.
Don't give way easily. You know, you'll
get like a shivery little dog. You know?
The kind that expects
a beating and gets one.
Last night I was a horse.
You've got to learn to stand
on your own two feet.
Four!
Now, no wisecracks. Even against Helen
you've got to stand up for your rights.
She's beautiful and your mother.
But she's looking after herself
as everyone should do.
Yes, I suppose she is.
Certainly. Tell Helen you
don't want to go to Delaware.
You are nineteen.
You are too old for school and camp.
Why you haven't been
anywhere or seen anything.
You know, it's healthy to want
some kind of life for yourself.
Being a misfit is bad business.
I like you.
What you say is true.
Don't forget it.
I won't, Mac.
Let's go home .. check.
I'll see you soon, Lois.
I may call you tomorrow.
Tell me now whether you will or
not because I'll stay in until you do.
Didn't I tell you never
to say that to a man?
Why not?
- Well .. I'll tell you later.
Goodnight .. thanks for a grand evening.
Me? Oh thank you, Mac.
I've never had such fun in all my life.
Going down?
Goodnight.
- Goodnight.
Down.
There you are, dear.
But it was such fun
having dinner with Mac.
And going to the theatre and
dancing and Chinatown.
I can't go back.
- But, Lois.
I've made a great effort to keep
you in school. It hasn't been easy.
But I'm too old, Helen.
- Too old?
You're only a baby.
- Oh no. Really I'm not.
I'm a misfit in school.
- But, Lois.
I lead such a crazy life. I must dear,
as I'm in the theater, and that's why ..
Look .. look Helen.
I won't be in the way.
I'll clean my own room.
I'll make my bed. Just let me stay.
When I told Mac that I had
to go, he said I shouldn't.
He said I should have some kind of life
of my own. Go somewhere, see something.
And Mac is right, Helen.
Really, Mac is right.
Mac .. Mac!
Lois.
Have you talked this over with Mac?
Yes.
I didn't know it was a secret.
- A secret?
Of course it's not a secret.
Mac, this is a tub of your vile
stuff. And it is perfectly vile.
I'm sorry, Helen.
Then we can't have your endorsement?
You may go, Dilly.
- Yes, Miss.
Sit down.
- Thank you.
Mind if I smoke a pipe?
- Why, no.
You've been seeing a deal
of my daughter lately.
Yes, I have.
Not as often as I'd like.
Giving her a deal of advice, too.
Which she quickly repeats as she hasn't
an ounce of deception in her being.
How does my advice sound?
Well .. it's alright for you, Mac.
And alright for her, but not so
good for Helen Walbridge.
That's why you asked me
to come here, isn't it?
You want me to stop telling Lois
not to allow herself to be kept ..
Well, a secret.
Good heavens, Helen. Do you realize you
can't sacrifice that kid to your vanity?
She's too alive.
You can't keep her hidden.
What I do with my daughter
is distinctly my business.
All I want you to do
is to leave her alone.
I can tell you, Helen, how sorry
I am that she is your daughter.
As a matter of fact I'm sorry now that
I came that night and found her there.
But she is, and I did.
Well, there you are.
You know.
I thought that you may realize something
that Lois is too young to understand.
That a woman in the theater with
a daughter nineteen years of age.
Can't possibly walk out on stage
and convince an audience that she ..
Audience?
Are you going to tell me that you'll
put the kid away in a girl's school ..
For the rest of her life because you're
afraid an audience may laugh at you?
Oh, Helen. You can't
hold that against her.
Just because she happens to be
nineteen and too big to show around.
You listen to me.
I married when I was sixteen years old.
My husband died.
He left me a frightened girl with a baby
on my hands and 10 dollars in the world.
I've played in every stage company
from Toronto to Louisville.
I've struggled for nineteen
years to get where I am.
And neither you, not she, nor anyone ..
Anyone is going to stand in my way now.
I think I know what's best
for Lois to be, and to do.
Helen, I've not the faintest right to
sit and tell you these things, but ..
Here goes.
Now, everyone in this world
has someone to turn to.
And .. well, because
she is such a sweet kid.
I've appointed myself her guardian.
A watchdog, if you like.
At any rate, I'm not going
to let you send her to jail.
And if you do ..
I'm going to advertize the fact
better than that roach paste.
Now that's vicious enough isn't it.
Beware of the dog.
Lois.
Yes, Helen.
- I've decided.
To stop robbing myself of a
thing I've wanted for a long time.
Having you here.
Having you meet my friends.
Oh Helen. Do you mean it?
We'll give a tea, Sunday. At Sherry's.
I wish I could ..
Mr McAllister.
- I'm terribly busy.
Well, there's a Miss Lois
Johnson to see you.
Who?
Miss Johnson. I told her you were busy.
- Well, I'm not busy.
Hello Lois, come right in.
I know you're awfully busy.
Not at all. I was just waiting
for the whistle to blow.
Mac, I had to tell you. I can stay.
I don't have to go back.
And Helen is giving a
tea for me on Sunday.
Well, isn't that swell.
- Isn't it, though.
Mac, there is just one thing.
I feel sort of silly asking you about
it, but Helen's got a matinee and ..
I need an afternoon dress
for the party, you see.
Yes.
Well do you know anybody
that would be good for me?
Well, I'm not much of a
dressmaker's pal, but ..
I do know one woman. A client of ours.
Would you send me to her?
- I'll take you to her.
No, Mac. It would be too much trouble.
No trouble at all. I'm going to get
you the swell-est dress in town.
Oh Mr McAllister.
- Can't you see I'm busy?
Madame Franois will see you now.
- Thank you.
Hello Eve.
- Hiya, Mac.
It's no use asking me
for money. I can't pay.
Skip it. I want you to do me a favor.
Oh, I'll skip it .. ask away.
I've Helen Walbridge's daughter with me.
Helen Walbridge's daughter?
Daughter?
- Yes.
Where?
- Outside.
Well, well.
She's been away at school.
- I'll bet she has.
For years and years.
Leave it to Helen.
- Listen.
All she wants is one
nice afternoon dress.
Now, you watch those prices, you pirate.
- Alright.
A sweet-looking kid, Mac.
- Yes.
I don't blame you a bit.
You cover a lot of ground, don't you?
From generation to generation,
at a .. moment's notice.
I'm sorry.
Eve, this is Miss Johnson.
Lois, Madame Franois.
- How do you do. - How do you do.
Do you think you can do
something about these long legs?
Long legs are a dressmaker's
dream, my dear.
You want an afternoon dress?
Yes. A special tea-party dress.
I do want to look nice in it.
You will.
Where did ..? Oh, here they are.
I think that would be lovely for you.
Oh Mac, it's beautiful.
Pretty, isn't it?
Darling, Franois is always good.
This one is .. nice.
Oh, by the way.
You'd better get letters
in for the Junior League.
The committee is meeting
next week, you know.
Junior League?
Why yes, of course.
Oh, Russ.
Wasn't that a divine orchestra at
Mimi's party the other night?
It was nice.
- Oh.
Come on, let's sit down.
Mother, do I really have to
ask Lois to go out with me?
Frederick, Lois is a very nice girl.
Yes I know, but she's so tall.
Why, we'd look funny dancing together.
We accepted this invitation.
A thing for you to do.
My dear, your daughter is charming.
Indeed she is, Helen. You ought
to be very, very proud of her.
I am.
It's so nice having her here with me.
They are a great comfort
to have around, aren't they.
Oh yes indeed.
A lovely party, Helen.
- Thank you.
Hello, Austin.
- Hello Mac.
You will find Lois over there.
I know she's waiting for
her guide and philosopher.
Thank you.
It would be so nice for Lois to
have someone to take her around.
The poor darling. I'm afraid she hasn't
had much attention from dancing men.
And it is so important
when you're in your teens.
Well, it's a lucky man who has
a chance to dance with Lois.
Does she dance nicely?
- Oh beautifully.
Oh, I'm so glad.
Well.
Run along Mac and amuse the child.
I know she's been watching the door,
counting the moments until you arrived.
Oh Helen, you're too flattering.
Mac!
I thought you were never coming. I've
been watching the door all afternoon.
Lois, never say that to a man.
Why not?
- Well, I'll tell you later.
Hello, Russell.
- Mac.
Babs, you know Stuart McAllister.
I think so.
Were you at the Haven's
party that night?
No. I've served my time at dead parties.
Now I have my carpet slippers,
my memories, my books and my pipe.
Oh.
- Lois ..
Remember darling, we're
lunching at the Chatham at one.
Mac, do you like my dress?
I think your dress is beautiful.
And you look beautiful in it.
Lois, I thought perhaps you
might like to go someplace ..
I say, will you pardon me?
Oh sure.
Will you go to the Thursday evening
dance at the Waldorf with me?
Thank you very much.
Thank you.
I'll call for you at eight.
Lois, wouldn't you like
to go someplace ..
Excuse me, please. I won't be a moment.
Lois, I was just saying
to your sweet mother ..
That I will send you a card to my
granddaughter's tea on the 2nd.
That's very kind of you Mrs Reynolds.
Lois ..
I'm booked for that, too.
Shall we go together?
Thank you very much.
- Fine.
Oh say, there is Mimi Sheldon.
Excuse us will you please, Mac.
I want Lois to meet her.
Oh sure.
Darrell, you may serve the cocktails.
Will you excuse me, please?
Aha ..
Excuse me.
That's perfectly alright.
Do you know the Wiseman twins?
No.
The music is nice, isn't it.
Yes. It's glorious.
Ooh!
- Oh, I'm so sorry.
My heel is coming off.
Will you excuse me, please?
Why, yes.
You're a fine one. You knew
I wanted you to cut in on me.
Oh, I wondered why you were waving.
I feel like I've been dancing
at the Empire State Building.
Come on, let's get a drink.
- Swell.
Come on, give me a whiskey
and soda quick. I'm dying.
Make it two.
- What happened to you?
Oh, I've been stuck dancing with
that Walbridge kid for years.
Stuck?
- Yeah. No-one cuts in.
You're crazy.
She's the best-looking girl here.
Where is she?
- I don't know.
She's nine feet tall and
doesn't know anyone.
That's why no-one cuts in.
She's beautiful, though.
I wouldn't care whether
she's the Venus De Milo.
If no-one cuts in, then
you're stuck with a dud.
Come on, where's my whiskey
and soda? Hey, make it quick!
A whiskey and soda .. I'm dying.
Thank you.
- Is that all, Miss?
Yes, thanks. I'd like to
stay here for a while.
Oh, that's quite alright.
Oh, what a pretty pink.
It's for my sister's baby.
Boy or a girl?
A boy, sure enough.
And a mean little devil.
How old is he?
- Eighteen months.
But he's too big to handle now.
I've got a picture of him.
- Oh, let me see it.
Ain't you going to dance, Miss?
Oh, not just for a while.
Oh, isn't he cute?
And he's the rolli-est,
polli-est little man.
Will you see that gets off right away.
- Yes, sir.
A telegram for Miss Johnson.
- For me?
Is there an answer, Miss?
- No. No thank you.
Yes .. yes, there is an answer.
May I have a blank and a pencil?
- Yes, ma'am.
Wait.
Is there an answer, Miss?
Oh yes.
If you please.
Say, I'm all out of blanks. You got one?
Ain't I been here once
before today, Miss?
Oh yes, yes.
Is there an answer, Miss?
No.
Not this time.
I'll change the station.
Oh, I like that.
Are you frozen?
- No.
Well, how is the dizzy world?
Parties? - Yeah.
- Why, they're pretty awful.
Really?
Well, they're lovely parties,
but I don't know anybody.
Every time I start dancing with
a boy I'm stuck with him for hours.
What do you do?
Oh, I just go to the dressing
room and fix my hair.
Why, The maids at Pierre,
The Waldorf and The Ritz ..
Know me better than anyone in New York.
Why do you go to these parties?
Oh, I can't stop hoping.
I keep thinking that maybe
next one will be better.
It never is.
- Well.
You'll get into the hang of it.
Mac.
- Yeah?
I want to ask you something.
Fire away.
What should I do about .. kissing?
You know, it's getting to
be a problem really.
Schoolgirls never ..
Now, at home .. the
boys seem to expect it.
Well, I don't know, Lois. I mean ..
It's something you've
got to figure out yourself.
You sound sort-of cross.
- No I'm not. Except that ..
It's just none of my business.
And I happen to like you and I ..
Well, I wouldn't want you to think
you're making yourself cheap.
No, Mac. I ..
Have you been going in
for this in a big way?
Of course not.
I'm sorry I mentioned it.
Take me now will you please.
Well listen, Lois.
- I'm awfully tired.
Really I am, Mac. Take me home please.
Oh, there you are.
Say, what is this? Hide and seek?
One sided. I hide but nobody seeks.
You're wrong.
I've been looking for you all night.
I like best listening to the music.
There's something better than that.
- What?
Dancing to it. Wouldn't
you like to dance?
I warn you, nobody will cut in.
I'm sure they won't. I won't let them.
Oh thanks. That is sweet of you.
Gosh, you dance well, Lois.
You mean we dance well together.
There you are. I look for you all night,
find you, and then it's all over.
I tell you what, let's get out of here
quick and go someplace, huh?
I couldn't. I came with Tom Bevan.
Never mind. Ditch him.
- That wouldn't be right.
I'll fix it up with him. You get
your wrap. I'll be right back.
Nothing.
Where are we going?
The Montmartre. You like it?
I've never been there.
- That's great. It's a swell place.
However there is liable to be someone
there who might want to dance with you.
I couldn't go for that.
Say, you're not doing anything
for lunch tomorrow are you?
As if you are, you'll have to break it.
- Now Russ, I ..
Helen.
Yes, dear?
Supposing a man kissed a girl and ..
And she didn't love him. Would
she like having him kiss her?
What are you talking about, darling?
I can't answer questions
about a girl and a man.
The girl is me, of course.
And the man?
It seems mean to tell on him.
- Oh nonsense, darling.
Well .. it's Russ Gray.
Russell Gray has been
making love to you?
Yes.
Well, he's very charming.
Yes he is, isn't he.
Are you in love with him, dear?
Well, Helen.
That's what I don't know.
I hardly ever talked to
him before last night, and ..
I never thought much about
any man except Mac.
And Russell kissed me and I liked it.
I've been remembering
ever since what it was like.
Helen.
Do you think that means
I'm in love with him?
Well, darling ..
You're very sensitive.
If you didn't like Russell.
I don't think you'd have
allowed him to kiss you.
Yes, dear.
I think you are in love with him.
Helen.
He's one of the very nicest
young men in New York.
And comes from one of
the very best families.
Darling, I think Russell could make
you make you very, very happy.
But .. Helen, I don't understand it.
Before last night, I was thinking
of Mac nearly all the time.
Mac?
But you couldn't possibly
fall in love with Mac, dear.
After all, Mac is ..
Well, he's just like a brother.
He's one of your best friends.
Yes.
Yes, he is isn't he.
- Of course.
Oh, I can't quite realize it.
Maybe it's not true.
Maybe I'm just imagining that Russell ..
- No, darling.
No, I'm sure you're not.
Hello, Mac.
I've been trying to get you all
afternoon. Where have you been?
Can I see you right away?
It's awfully important.
Why yes, Lois. I'll meet you.
Oh, no, no, no.
I don't want a lot of people around.
Can I come over to your apartment?
Well, I'd rather you wouldn't.
I, uh ..
Hello?
Hello, Lois?
[ Door knocks ]
Come in.
Hello, Mac.
- Hello, Lois.
Sorry I hung up on you but I wanted
to get over here as quickly as I could.
Anything wrong?
Oh no. Gosh, this is nice.
May I look around?
Sure. If you can stand it.
Oh.
Hmm .. you're intelligent.
- Thank you very much.
You are very welcome.
Oh, what's this?
That's tapa. It comes from Samoa.
Oh, I'd love to travel.
See all these things.
I'd like to.
- What?
Nothing.
Oh do you mind if I make a remark?
- No.
Well, I think this chair ought
to be done in solid colors.
I'll remember that.
Oh, are you old fashioned.
Ah, never mind that. Tell me ..
What's it all about?
- I'm engaged.
Well, I wanted to tell you
first. Aren't you glad?
Sure.
What's his name?
- Russell Gray.
Oh yes.
A nice boy.
- Oh, he's a darling.
I didn't think he was in love me.
Really I mean. But he is.
He says he fell in love with
me the first time he met me.
Are you in love with him?
- Why, of course.
Oh Mac, I'm so excited.
Well, you've been in love, haven't you?
Oh sure. Dozens of times.
When are you getting married?
Well, the engagement is going
to be announced next week.
Then I'm going up to spend time
with his mother in the country.
I met her this afternoon.
She was darling to me.
Why that's fine, Lois.
And you know how happy
I want you to be, don't you?
Why of course, Mac.
You're the best friend I have.
Except Russell.
Oh but that's different. He's in love
with me. You're the best friend I have.
Don't you understand?
- Why, sure.
Of course I understand, Lois.
I was in the building to see
old Patterson, mother's lawyer.
So I thought I'd drop in.
- I'm glad you did, Russ.
Yeah, I want to thank you
for that note, Mac and ..
Tell you I hope I get to know
you as well as Lois does.
I guess if it was anybody else
I'd be as jealous as the devil.
No thanks. I know that
Lois boosts all her pals.
Yeah, she certainly does.
Say Mac, if you get a chance,
why not come to the lodge?
Well, I'd like to, but they've
got a ring in my nose here.
That's too bad. We won't be in
New York very long after we're married.
I thought perhaps we could get together.
I'd love to any time.
But you know, I'm a devoted slave
of your fiance, like everybody else.
Sure, well so long.
- So long.
And if we don't see you
when we get back to town ..
I'll look you up before you go.
- Yeah, do that will you.
Say hello to Lois for me.
- You bet.
And have a swell time.
- So long.
Hey.
- What?
Are you in a coma or something?
Yes .. I mean, come in.
We .. we've got work to do.
Miss Lois Johnson.
Daughter of the late Mr Ralph
Johnson. Mr Johnson died in 1918.
Educated in Miss Charlton's School
For Girls near Springfield.
Not too much off the sides.
Well, just a moment please,
and I'll find out. Darling ..
Can you possibly have the time
for photographing today?
I don't know. I guess so, Helen.
Oh yes.
You have a fitting at two
and tea with Russell at four.
Hello?
Yes, she'll be sent to
the photographers at 5:30.
Thank you very much.
Is it the white satin and
the sheer black, Miss Johnson?
Yes, I'd like that.
You'd better ask mother.
I mean, Miss Walbridge.
You're ring is gorgeous, Miss Johnson.
It is lovely, isn't it.
I can't quite realize it's mine.
A big diamond like that doesn't
seem to go with me somehow.
You're too modest. You carry it fine.
Thank you.
Here you are, Miss.
Oh isn't that .. oh, aren't I nice.
Darling, be sure to make an appointment
before Saturday, as you go to the Grays.
Yes, dear. I know.
- Let me see.
This coming Friday. Oh no,
that's the Sheldon cocktail party.
Never mind, Louis. I will telephone.
- Very good, madam.
Flowers for Miss Lois.
Oh! From Russell.
Aren't they lovely.
- Oh, may I?
Oh, they are beautiful.
It's quite a business being
engaged, isn't it, Sweet?
Very.
Everything is going
along very nicely, dear.
About your election to the town club.
I'm so glad, Mrs Gray.
- Oh, Lois.
I mean "mother Emily".
Haven't you proposed her to
the Patriotic Daughters?
Oh that's true.
Lois dear, we'll have to have
a little talk about your family.
You had ancestors in the
revolution, didn't you?
I'm afraid I ..
Mother, is this necessary?
The Patriotic Daughters ..
It's a very nice connection for a
young woman just starting in New York.
I came in on Jonathan Edwards.
You see, dear.
You use some old, old
stiff as a springboard ..
To land you in a select circle.
They don't care what you are.
But if your Grandpa or folks took a
pot-shot at the British, you're in.
Quiet, Russell.
I'm sorry mother, but it bores me stiff.
What was your father, dear?
A banker, wasn't he?
No .. he was a florist.
He had a little shop in Saint Paul.
Let's go for a walk, Lois.
Alright.
Will you excuse me, please?
Excuse us.
Russell.
Why was your mother upset when
I said my father was a florist?
I've always thought it
was a grand thing to be.
Don't pay any attention to them, Sweet.
They're just a little cranky
about family. That's all.
Maybe they prefer uncle Horace.
He was a banker.
He's in hiding now in Persia.
But I so want them to like me and I
always seem to say the wrong thing.
Don't say anything.
You know dear, I haven't
been alone with you for hours.
Russell. Talk to me, please.
That's all I want to say.
Oh Lois darling, I'm crazy about you.
Say you'll love me, Lois.
- Of course I do, Russell, but ..
But, but, but ..
[ Telephone ]
Hello?
Yes, I'm ready at this end.
Hello, Helen.
Oh darling, I had to call you.
It's really awful here.
But Helen, I tell you they
don't like me at all.
Everything is wrong with me.
I can't play bridge and ..
They're always talking about
ancestors and I haven't got any.
Helen .. do I have to stay?
But of course you must stay, Lois.
Don't act like a silly child.
You and Russell haven't
quarreled, have you?
Oh no .. no, no.
I just get very lonely sometimes
for someone to talk to.
Darling, I know it's difficult, but try
and be sensible. It's only for 2 weeks.
I'm sure you can adjust yourself.
Mr Stevens. He's waiting for you.
- Thank you.
Darling, I must go now. I'm so late.
I'm sure you'll feel
better in the morning.
Helen.
Excuse me, Miss. I didn't
know you was in here.
That's alright, I ..
I don't want to go downstairs just yet.
Excuse me Miss .. but ..
Isn't Helen Walbridge your mother?
Yes.
Oh, that's wonderful.
You've seen her?
Oh sure, lots of times.
One of the other girls and me go all
the time when the family is in town.
Oh really?
- Uhuh.
We have to wait a long time
though until we can get seats.
You see it takes a long time to get
seats for a Helen Walbridge show.
Tell me Miss, which part
do you like her best in?
Well .. I've only seen Helen,
my mother, in two plays.
Oh ..
Margaret!
You have quite enough
work to keep you busy.
Yes, ma'am.
But mother Emily, it was me ..
- Never mind, Lois.
Lois.
I'm afraid I shall have to ask you
not to gossip with the servants.
Well it wasn't gossip, exactly.
- Not to ask a maid to sit with you?
You've been home so little since you
grew up, that you don't quite realize ..
Mother Emily, I ..
It's all over now. And we
won't refer to it again.
[ Door knocks ]
Who is it?
It's me, dear. I'm waiting for you.
Just a minute, Russell.
I've waited, darling. I thought
we were going to the village.
Oh I'm sorry dear,
but it's awfully late.
I don't feel much like it.
Lois, what's wrong with you?
You've been crying.
- Oh, nothing.
Oh Russell. Everything.
I'm really in terrible
trouble about your family.
My family?
- Yes. They don't like me.
Oh nonsense. They're crazy about you.
No they're not.
I'm lonely, Russell.
I want to talk to someone
I've known a long time.
Well, talk to me, Sweet.
- No I can't, because ..
Dear, because they are your family.
Anyway.
I'm sending for Mac.
Oh.
Why?
Because he's my best
friend. And Helen's.
He's an old, old friend of Helen's.
I thought .. if I could see him, I ..
He would help me.
- Help you?
Why can't you tell me, Lois?
Oh Russell, I've tried
to dozens of times.
Don't you understand?
If I could just .. talk it
all out with Mac, why ..
Everything would be alright.
Don't you see, dear?
Yes .. I guess so.
Hello, Lois .. this is Mac.
Mac!
I'm so glad to hear your voice.
How are you?
I'm down at The Birches.
Yes. You wait outside
for me. I'll be right down.
I'm so glad.
Russell, guess what?
Mac is down at The Birches.
- So he came up, huh?
Yes. Do come down and meet him.
- I know him, Lois.
I know. But just to say hello.
He's so nice, really.
I'd rather not, dear.
I'm going to play some golf.
Oh, just for a moment.
- I'll see him later, dear.
Alright, dear.
Goodbye.
Goodbye.
Mac!
- Lois.
Oh gosh, you're good for sore eyes.
Lois, never say that to a ..
- I know.
You're going to tell me why
I shouldn't say that, later.
Mac!
Can't we talk here?
- Sure, if you want to.
Too crowded?
- Yeah.
I got a grand idea. Come on.
Want a canoe, sir?
- Yes, please. - Right this way.
Have you seen Helen?
- No.
But I saw a beautiful picture of
you in The Times Photo Review.
You did?
- Yep.
I always laughed at those pictures
and now I am one of them.
Canoe is ready.
Can I paddle, Mac?
No, no. I didn't come all the way from
New York just to get dumped in the lake.
I wouldn't dump you.
- There you are.
It's a doubtful looking day.
We'd better stick close in.
You sure you won't be cold?
- Oh no.
You sure?
- I feel fine. - Good.
Oh, I know.
I tried some of that
Mignon cream of yours.
To get the freckles off my nose.
- Those freckles?
Yes. They're still here though. See?
What did you want to talk about, Lois?
- Oh, I don't know.
When I wrote to you,
I wanted to ask your advice.
Now, you're here.
I guess I just wanted to see you.
I don't know how seeing my
mug could straighten things out.
It does for me.
Mac.
You see, the Grays are
such a proper family.
Ah, so that's it.
Well, never mind.
Russell's opinion is
the only important one.
He wants to marry you.
You just keep thinking about that.
- Oh, I do.
At least, I try to.
You'll be married shortly, won't you?
- The end of June.
Oh, I want to be happy, Mac.
I want to be a good wife.
Have a nice house.
Some children.
Sure. You'll make out alright.
You'll make a wonderful wife.
Look at that sky.
We'd better be starting in.
- It certainly is black.
Where is the Grays from here?
- Over at the dock.
That way?
That's right.
- Here she comes.
Oh Mac, I love it.
Maybe, but you're not getting
any chills on account of me.
Hey mother Emily will be crazy
about our coming in like this.
Oh, she'll understand.
Hoo!
Hello, mother Emily. You're lucky
not to be caught in this storm.
You don't know Mac, do you?
Mrs Gray, this is Mr McAllister.
Hello.
Where is Russell?
- Russell?
Yes child. Of course, Russell.
He left here almost a
half hour ago to find you.
He was nearly frantic.
Oh dear, I'm so sorry. I told him ..
I mean, he knew that I'd sent for Mac to
come down from New York to see me.
And there was no need to worry.
Do you mean to say that
you asked Mr McAllister?
Oh, mother!
Is she back?
Oh Lois, I searched the lake for you.
Where on earth could you have been?
Hello Mac.
- Hello, Russ.
I'm very sorry I got
Lois in the rain like this.
Alright, but I wish you'd
kept your eyes open.
Lois, I hope you won't catch cold.
- Oh no, I'm not wet. Not very.
Lois, dear.
Of course, any friend of yours
is welcome here at any time.
And I know that young people look
at things quite differently nowadays.
But won't you please explain?
- Explain what, mother Emily?
Do I understand that you
sent for Mr McAllister?
Yes .. Mac's my oldest friend.
Whenever I get sort
of stuck or in trouble.
I like to talk to him.
What was this trouble, dear?
Why did you feel you
needed Mr McAllister?
Oh nothing, mother.
It was just some silly idea.
Mrs Gray, Lois and I are friends.
It's that she's used to
confiding in me. That's all.
Mac, please don't apologize for me.
I've done nothing wrong.
Russell, don't you see how
badly this looks for your fiance?
Well, it's just that Lois is very
unconventional, mother.
Russell.
I told you that Mac was
coming down here.
If you didn't like it, you
should have told me then.
Well you might have consulted
me, Lois. After all, this is my house.
Yes, mother Emily, I realize that.
But I had no intention
of bringing Mac here.
And where did you propose to see him?
Now just a moment, Mrs Gray.
I don't think you understand.
You are quite right, Mr McAllister.
I don't understand.
A young girl engaged to one
man and seen out with another.
And her marriage a short time away.
Lois will learn when she's a little
older just how badly some things look.
I'll never learn to
care how things look.
Russell.
You've been hoping I've
changed, haven't you?
Well, you're very young dear.
You're too unsophisticated to realize ..
Realize the thoughts people have?
I don't want to realize that.
I don't care.
- You must care.
But I don't. Don't you see?
Oh Russell, all this time I thought
you were in love with me and ..
You were saying this is awful,
this is terrible, but you'll change.
Oh no Lois, you're saying
things you don't mean now.
I do mean them.
I'll always mean them.
Oh Mac.
Take me home.
I don't belong here.
Are you sure you're alright?
- Yes.
You were crying again in the car.
- I know.
I was afraid that ..
- No. It's alright.
It's hard to explain, really.
- Never mind.
Chin up.
Go on.
Hello darling.
- Lois.
What on earth ..?
Will you pardon me, please.
I didn't expect you home so soon.
I sent for Mac and he brought me home.
It was all very sudden.
Where is Russell? Isn't he ..?
- No.
I'm not going to see Russell anymore.
I'm afraid you'll have to excuse me.
I seem to have a silly little
lover's quarrel to smooth out.
No, Helen.
We must run along.
And I sincerely hope that nothing
happens to spoil your triumphant year.
Oh no, my dear. Everything seems
so very important when one is young.
Yes. Goodbye, Helen.
- Goodbye.
See you soon, Helen.
- Goodbye, Bob.
Helen, I don't know quite
how to say it, but ..
Steady.
- Don't be funny.
I'm not upset.
It's just a question of
discipline. That's all.
I wonder.
You now, sometimes our wisest
turns for other people ..
Aren't quite so wise after all.
I suppose I should go too.
But I'll stay if you don't mind.
You'll understand why ..
- I hope so.
Now, try to tell me coherently ..
For what ridiculous reason you
rushed home from the Grays?
It's not a ridiculous reason ..
- A silly spat with Russell?
Much more.
You humiliated Russell, yourself
and me before these people.
You broadcast it all over New York that
you and your fiance have quarrelled.
You asked me and I told you.
Where's your sense of proportion?
That's what I'm trying to ..
Helen. That's just what
I'm trying to tell you.
I was all mixed up.
I liked having my pictures taken, and
new clothes, and being made a fuss of.
But all that doesn't mean anything.
Giving your promise means something?
- I'm not in love with Russell.
I couldn't marry him.
All because you made him a bit jealous.
Naturally, Russell resented you sent
for Mac. You had no right to do that.
Mother, don't talk like that.
I just realized I was marrying someone
because he makes love nicely.
Marriage is more than that.
Marriage lasts all your life.
Russell has everything that a girl
wants in a man she marries.
Not for me.
Mother, I keep telling you.
Russell and I don't like each other.
Would you mind leaving us alone?
No.
- Right.
I wish I could stay, Lois.
I wish that I could be you and you
could be me for the next 15 minutes.
You will listen to Lois, won't you.
And try to understand.
I think we've both taken all the advice
from you, Mr McAllister that we mean to.
Mother!
- Goodbye.
Helen.
The way I feel about Mac.
That's the way one should
feel about one's husband.
Mac?
- Yes.
I love Mac.
Has Mac made love to you?
- No.
But he loves me.
I know he loves me.
How do you know?
- I can tell.
I think Mac has loved
me for a very long time.
Doesn't it seem at all strange that
he's never mentioned it to you?
No. He was waiting until I'd seen some
things, met people outside of school.
Oh, he must have been terribly hurt
when I told him about my engagement.
I wish I had known about it then.
So you think that Mac has loved
you from the first time he saw you?
Yes, I do.
Think back to the first time.
Oh, I remember. I remember the way
he looked and everything he said.
Well, let me remind of some of
the things you don't remember.
What?
You didn't let him
in that night, did you?
No. I was lying here on the couch
reading. I looked up and there he was.
He opened the door with a latch-key?
Yes.
Well, where do you think he got it?
Why, I ..
- What did he say?
That he was ..
He was waiting for you.
Yes.
The elevator man had given him the key.
Elevator men don't give people keys.
Helen.
He's the man you've thrown
Russell over for. - Don't.
It's Russell who loves you.
Who has a right to love you.
You don't have to keep on
saying it over and over.
Lois, you mustn't ..
I won't listen. I won't!
I won't .. I won't!
Lois .. Lois ..
Take me down, please.
Thanks Dan. I'll let you have
it back in just a minute.
Let me out of here!
Now wait a minute.
- Let me out.
Where you going?
Anywhere as long as I'm
away from you and Helen.
Oh now Lois. Just a moment, please.
I don't know what Helen said to you.
But if it's anything concerning
Helen and myself, it's not true.
Now just a moment.
Look at me.
Mac.
- I love you.
0h don't. How can you say that?
I can say it to you with
my whole heart and soul.
I love you, Lois.
And you know I'd never
lie to you, don't you?
And I know I've never done anything.
That can prevent me from saying again.
I love you.
You do believe me, don't you?
Mac.
Don't you?
Yes, I believe you.
Mac, I love you so much.
That's the way to talk to a man.
[ Door knocks ]
Come in.
I can't come in.
That's all I wanted to know.
-- T-g --