Gilded Newport Mysteries: Murder at the Breakers (2024) Movie Script

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[boy] Extra! Extra!
Read all about it!
Extra! Extra!
Read all about it!
[Emma writes]
"Women's rights champion
Susan B. Anthony
visited Newport this week.
In my capacity
as the Women's
and Society reporter,
I was lucky enough
to interview Miss Anthony
on behalf
of your Newport Observer..."
[telephone ringing,
Milford shouts] Oh!
Oh, good heavens,
will that blasted thing
never cease to startle me?
[telephone ringing]
[telephone ringing,
typewriter keys clacking]
Miss Vanderbilt-Cross?
Would you mind seeing to that?
I'm just in the middle
of some very important work.
Of course, Mr. Milford.
[telephone ringing]
Hello?
This is she.
This Wednesday?
3:00?
Yes, I believe
I'm free to attend.
I'm certain your roses
are truly spectacular,
but I can't make any promises.
I do cover many events.
Thank you so much, Mrs. Lehr.
I look forward to seeing you
on Wednesday.
You are in high demand
this time of year,
Miss Vanderbilt-Cross.
Yes, it certainly is
shaping up to be a busy season.
Perhaps,
but it is you
that all the seasonal residents
are clamoring to have
at their garden parties
and such.
Well, I do try to avoid
any salaciousness in my writing,
unlike many society reporters
in the cities.
Perhaps that's why.
It's because you're one of them,
a Vanderbilt.
They trust you in a way
they do no other reporter,
and lucky for us.
Speaking of reporting,
I've nearly finished
with a report
about Susan B. Anthony's visit,
which I think our readers
will love.
Oh.
Just so long as you stay focused
on what's important.
Sir?
Well, the spectacle, of course.
There's a reason
why the women's pages
are called "Fashions
and Fancies," after all.
Indeed.
Though I do think
many readers are curious
about the sort of reform
Miss Anthony touts.
Trust me, Miss Vanderbilt-Cross.
I know women.
They don't want to read
about politics.
[chuckles tightly]
Of course, Mr. Milford.
[]
Miss Anthony was...
charmingly clad
in a blue silk gown
with lace cuffs
and simple pearl earrings.
"During her speech,
she maintained
that while proud
of the work she's done
to advance women's causes,
it's time for a new generation
to step up to the mantle.
It was
a truly inspiring afternoon."
I'm pleased with what I wrote.
Whether I'll be pleased
with what Mr. Milford publishes
after his revisions
is another matter entirely.
I'm sure it will be wonderful.
Maybe even change some minds.
How do you mean?
Well, my boss
at the coroner's office
still thinks
the women's movement is a fad,
so dissuading him
from that notion
would be a good start.
What was it like
speaking with Miss Anthony
one-on-one?
I'd have been so intimidated.
She is quite a formidable woman,
I'll say that.
Did she have any words
of wisdom for you,
considering the question
that's been front of mind
for you lately?
Of whether I ought to marry
and start a family, you mean?
Is there any other
for a 21-year-old woman?
[laughing]
She didn't give me any advice,
per se,
but she did say that, for her,
it's independence
which has brought happiness.
So, in other words,
remain unmarried
for as long as you can?
[Emma chuckling]
I just hate feeling
that I must choose
between having a family
and continuing to do the work
that I love.
Do you really love
writing the women's pages?
I enjoy it,
and it allows me to make
a living off of my writing,
which is a challenge for anyone.
I still think you should
write that novel
you've been dreaming about
since we were children.
I do romanticize the idea
of being that sort of writer,
but I wouldn't know
where to begin,
and, even if I did,
Aunt Alice would be aghast.
Surely, you shouldn't
let that bother you.
You're only half Vanderbilt.
True,
but even a poor relation like me
publishing a novel
would be considered scandalous.
Pish.
The creative spirit
runs through your veins.
Your mother did marry an artist,
after all.
Yes,
and now,
she fancies herself one as well.
Uncle Cornelius
still hasn't gotten over it.
[laughing]
What?
It's 5:00 already?
I'm gonna be late
for tonight's ball!
Two assignments in one day?
You work too hard, Emma.
Tonight is work and play.
[]
It's a right shame
she and your father aren't here.
I mean, aside from missing
Cousin Gertrude's
coming-out ball,
they shouldn't be...
[speaking simultaneously]... "traipsing
around Europe
trying to sell their paintings
when their only daughter's
just come of age."
Yes, so you've said repeatedly.
[chuckling] Well,
I don't think it's right
that they left you here to work
to keep the roof over our heads.
Lots of women
work these days, Nanny,
and Brady helps when he can.
When was the last time
that half-brother of yours
gave you a cent towards
the running of the house?
That's not fair,
he's between jobs.
Aye.
Emma, you look beautiful.
[tsking fondly]
I fear the gown
is doing much of the work.
Wherever did you find it?
It was Carrie Astor's
from last season.
Miss Dickerson
over at Atelier Bellevue,
she's planning to refashion it
into something new.
I suppose that means
we have to return it
after the ball?
[laughing]
Unless you have the $75
to buy it from her.
Oh, if only I were
an heiress like Miss Astor.
[chuckling]
If Brady doesn't arrive soon,
you're gonna have to leave
without him.
He'll be here.
Arriving late will not help
in getting
the Vanderbilts to accept him.
I don't think anything will.
It's been more than 20 years,
and Uncle Cornelius
still treats father
like a nuisance.
Why are you so intent
on continuing to try with Brady?
I refuse to accept
their snobbishness.
Just because father had a son
before he met mother
- doesn't mean...
- Oh!
[panting]
Stupid thing.
Come here, I'll do it for you.
You look as fresh as a daisy.
And you look like
you ran all the way here.
What happened?
The tailors was mad.
Judging by the lines,
everyone in town's
gonna be at tonight's ball.
Only the millionaires,
if I know your Aunt Alice.
Ah, there you go.
[chuckling fondly]
What would I do
without you, Nanny?
Oh! [chuckling]
Well, you'd be later than
you already are, for a start.
Off you go!
Thank you, Nanny!
Bye!
Good night.
[sighing]
[]
I was expecting to be greeted
by Mr. Mason this evening.
I can't believe Uncle Cornelius
dismissed him so suddenly.
[Brady] Yeah.
The old man was head butler
for what, 15 years?
As long as I can remember.
I wonder
what could have happened.
Perhaps Cousin Gertrude knows.
[Emma] Perhaps.
Best not ask her
about it tonight, though.
Why in heavens not?
It's her first ball.
Her debut into society.
I'm sure
she's a basket of nerves.
[Brady whispering]
Are you sure
Alice and Cornelius
are all right
with me being here?
The invitation said
I could bring a guest.
[quietly] Emma...
Emma, you...
you know they don't like
having me around here.
[quietly] It'll be fine.
[sighing nervously]
Thank you.
Oh, Emma!
Hello.
Dear, you look stunning.
I have a few ideas
for your dance card.
The Oelrichs' nephew
is in town, and...
Oh!
Brady too.
Hello.
Look who it is, Cornelius.
Thank you both for having us.
Of course.
Brady.
Sir.
Emma,
how is your mother doing?
Well, last I heard,
she and father have apparently
had some luck
selling their paintings
recently.
Oh, that's such wonderful news.
I'd like to hear
more about it later.
Look at that dress!
That is divine, dear.
Show me.
You look incredible...
[Brady] Look at this.
Little Gertie, all grown up.
I'm not little anything, Brady.
I turned 16 last month.
He's only kidding.
You look beautiful.
Very sophisticated.
Thank you!
How wonderful.
It's almost a perfect night.
Almost?
[chuckling] It's a entire ball
just for you,
what could possibly be wrong?
Brady, would you be a dear
and take this
to the cloak room for me?
Oh, so this is why
she brought me.
Only joking.
Thank you.
I'll see you inside.
Now, it's just us.
What's wrong?
Nothing at all, silly.
You can't fool me, Gertrude.
I've known you
since the day you were born.
Mother made me swear
not to discuss it tonight.
If I tell you, you have to
promise not to tell anyone.
Pinky swear.
Neily's fallen in love,
and he's gone absolutely mad.
How so?
Refusing to join our family
to greet our guests,
for starters.
Oh.
Well, do you think
that maybe he has something...
[Alice] Gertrude!
I'd like you to come over here.
I'd like to introduce you
to somebody.
I'm sorry, I've got to go.
Of course,
but, Gertrude,
remember, it's your night.
Try to forget about Neily
and enjoy it.
All right, see you later.
Darling, have you met...
[]
[]
Oh! Pardon me.
Pardon me.
I was so engrossed in my...
I don't believe we've met.
No, I don't believe we have.
I'm...
Miss Vanderbilt.
May I have the pleasure
of this dance?
Mr. Goddard.
Thank you, but I'm...
Oh!
[]
I do hope we'll have the chance
to get to know one another
properly this season,
Miss Vanderbilt.
It's Vanderbilt-Cross, sir.
Tsk.
You should be more proud
of your lineage.
I am, Mr. Goddard.
On both my father
and my mother's side.
Of course,
but only your mother's side
owns half the railways
in this country.
Indeed,
and what a shame it is
I've no inheritance from it.
Oh...
is that so?
Thank you for the dance,
Miss Vanderbilt-Cross,
but I must bid you farewell.
I have some highly confidential
railway plans
to return to your uncle's safe.
Well, I'd hate to keep you
from your important work.
[]
I wish we didn't
have to sneak about.
It won't be forever, darling.
Do you promise?
I guarantee it.
[giggling]
It is rather uncouth, isn't it?
Could we have a word?
Of course.
You do recognize the woman
your cousin, Neily, is with,
I take it?
I don't believe so.
It's Grace Winslow.
Granddaughter of Edward Winslow.
Uncle Cornelius' business rival.
Yes,
and he is furious.
Emma dear, I need you
to keep an eye on Neily.
Make sure he does not miss
the family toast.
I don't want any of this drama
to get in the way
of Gertrude's big night.
I'll do my best.
I knew I could count on you.
Thank you, dear.
Why does everyone seem to be
disappearing this evening?
Emma?
Adelaide!
Oh, it's been so long.
Are you home for the season?
Yes, I've finally
managed to convince Rupert
that there's life
outside New York City.
Well, lucky for me.
[chuckling warmly]
It feels as though
you've been gone for so long.
I'm sorry I missed your wedding,
but according to the pages,
it was quite
a spectacular affair.
It was lovely,
but it doesn't come close
to the splendor of tonight.
Aunt Alice did go all out
for Gertrude's big night.
And how.
It's like a dream.
And then you just take off,
leaving me to fend for myself.
I'm so sorry, darling.
Emma, may I present my husband,
Rupert Halstock.
Rupert, Emma Vanderbilt-Cross,
my oldest friend.
Pleased to meet you.
Emma and I used to
run through here like rascals
when we were children.
It once took me an hour
to find her hiding
in the old playhouse
during a game of hide and seek.
It was all such fun.
I left my cane
in the smoking room.
You'll have to go up and get it.
We can catch up later.
I've missed you, friend.
[]
[bell chiming]
[bell chiming]
[bell chiming]
[bell chiming]
[Cornelius]
Thank you all for joining us,
and a special thank you to those
that made the trip in
from New York and Boston
to be with us this evening.
Celebrating the debut
of our eldest daughter
is a very special occasion
for Alice and I.
I'm sure I don't have to tell
those of you with daughters
just how excited
Gertrude has been for today.
I'll ask you to please
raise your glass
along with me
to celebrate this special day.
To Gertrude.
[crowd] To Gertrude.
[crowd murmuring happily]
[man, distantly]
What are you doing in here?
[grunting and struggling]
[body thudding]
[]
Mr. Goddard?
Emma!
Jesse, I was hoping
you'd be on shift tonight.
Well, when they told me
you'd called in the death,
I insisted on coming.
I'm sorry you had to witness
such a terrible accident.
Is everything all right?
Are you all right?
Yes, though it was a shock,
and the coroner's assistant,
Harriet Rice,
is waiting around back.
What are you doing?
I'm coming with you.
I presumed you'd want
my account of what happened.
We can do that later.
For now,
it would be really helpful
if you can go inside
and alert the staff.
I've already done as much.
Don't worry,
I haven't told them anything.
Just that guests
should be kept indoors.
What a remarkably level head
you have, Emma.
Just keeping the face
of something like this.
I didn't want to disrupt
Gertrude's big night
until it was necessary.
If the world were different,
what an excellent
police officer you'd make.
What have we here?
Detective Whyte.
Dr. Rice, what can you tell me?
Well, the coroner will assess
the body more fully tomorrow,
but for now...
male, 30s.
Died from a broken neck.
There's no identification
on him.
It's Alvin Goddard,
a Vanderbilt business advisor.
Does the broken neck
account for that much blood?
I was just about
to turn him over to find out.
Would you give me a hand?
You might not want
to watch, Emma.
[Jesse] One, two, three...
I wonder how he got that?
There was a commotion above
before he fell.
What sort of commotion?
[Emma] It sounded like
someone surprised him,
and then I heard him say,
"What are you doing up here?"
right before he fell.
[Harriet] If you ask me,
the gash on the side
of his head is no accident.
Meaning, Dr. Rice?
If I had to guess,
he was hit
with something gilded.
If Mr. Goddard was attacked
before he fell,
this was no accident.
It was murder.
Where does
that balcony lead from?
Uncle Cornelius' office.
Would you mind showing me, Emma?
Of course.
I assume it wasn't uncommon
for Goddard to be in the office.
I wouldn't think so.
He mentioned needing to return
some confidential papers
to the safe earlier.
Someone surprised him
on the way down,
but who...
and why?
Brady?
- Brady?
- Brady, are you okay?
That candlestick,
it's gilded, like the flecks
in Goddard's wound.
No, you know Brady
wouldn't hurt a fly.
He's gotten himself into
his fair share of mischief.
Mischief, sure,
but never murder.
Plus, he has no reason
to want to hurt Mr. Goddard.
- [groaning]
- Brady, are you okay?
[Cornelius] What is
the meaning of all this?
Sir...
Sir, this is a crime scene.
Please refrain
from touching anything.
This is my home!
I'll touch what I please.
What happened?
Are you okay?
Where are they?
Uncle Cornelius!
You give me back
those plans, boy,
or there'll be hell to pay.
What plans?
The plans Mr. Goddard
was returning to the safe.
How do you know about those?
I told Detective Whyte
about them.
Mr. Goddard
mentioned them to me earlier.
Well, they're not in the safe,
they're not on his body,
which means
someone has stolen them.
Probably the same person
who threw him off the balcony.
You can't possibly believe
that Brady...
Emma, stay out of this!
I will do no such thing.
You're accusing my brother of...
Half-brother,
and you know as well as I
that trouble follows him
like a stray dog!
But Uncle, you have to under...
Perhaps it would be best
if Miss Vanderbilt
were to wait downstairs.
I'll be all right.
Are you sure?
Yeah.
Please, Emma.
Let's start at the beginning.
This is just awful, mother.
Mr. Goddard's death
is all anyone will remember
from tonight.
Yes, well, we mustn't dwell
on that right now, dear.
What else is there to dwell on?
[]
Nasty business, this.
Neily.
I feel just terrible
for Gertrude.
Now you feel terrible?
What do you mean by that?
You didn't seem to mind
upsetting her earlier
by foregoing the receiving line
or missing the family toast.
You don't understand...
I believe I do.
I saw you...
with Grace Winslow.
[crowd murmuring]
Brady?
Brady...
No, this... this can't be.
Brady!
Uncle Cornelius, Gertrude,
and Aunt Alice
were definitely there.
The notes for your article
on the ball can wait.
You should eat.
This isn't for my article.
I'm trying to remember
everyone I saw in the ballroom
just before
Mr. Goddard was killed.
Whatever for?
They can be ruled out
as his killer.
They wouldn't have
had enough time
to get upstairs to attack him.
Neily.
What about him?
Aunt Alice asked me
to make sure he was there
for the toast,
but I couldn't find him.
Your cousin
is no murderer, Emma.
Well, someone killed
Mr. Goddard,
and I know it wasn't Brady.
Well, it's not up to you
to find out who did.
No,
but if I can rule some people
out for Jesse, then...
Well, that's all well and good,
but what the police
really need to do
is figure out
the killer's motivation.
Is that right?
It's right as rain,
according to
my detective novels.
Well, the stolen railway plans
tell me theft
was the motive in this case.
Ah, but can you be sure?
Perhaps the theft was secondary,
a red herring of sorts,
like, for someone
who wanted Mr. Goddard dead.
A red herring?
It's a false clue.
Something that seems important,
but it isn't.
Arthur Conan Doyle
employs them often.
Supposing they were,
who would want
Mr. Goddard dead?
Detective Whyte
should speak to Mr. Mason.
He's been at The Breakers
for years,
he'll know a thing or two.
Of course, Mr. Mason.
Have you heard from him lately?
Don't look so shocked.
I know you two courted
years ago.
Yes, well, what of it?
He was dismissed
from The Breakers yesterday,
before the ball.
Oh, I had no idea.
Do you think you could
discover his whereabouts?
I'll see what I can find out.
[Mr. Milford] Absolutely not.
[Emma] But, sir, I was there!
Miss Vanderbilt-Cross,
you write on society
and women's issues.
Our readers
do not want to see your name
on an article about murder.
- Yeah, but...
- In fact, I'm not so certain
they're keen see your name
on anything,
given your connection
to this incident.
Are you suggesting I no longer
have employment here,
Mr. Milford?
What I am suggesting
is that you stay as far away
from the scandal as possible
if you want to keep
that employment.
I'll do my best.
Make sure that you do.
Now, in the meantime,
I'll be writing
about the murder,
and you can trust
that I will be respectful.
I appreciate that, sir.
Very much.
Brady.
You're a sight for sore eyes.
Are they treating you okay?
Yeah.
[chuckling nervously]
I'm fine...
but...
Em...
...what's gonna happen to me?
The important thing
is to find out
what really happened last night.
Do you swear
you didn't steal those plans
from Cornelius' safe?
Of course, I didn't.
So why were you upstairs then?
I was waiting to talk to Neily.
He wanted some advice from me.
Is this about his love affair
with Grace Winslow?
Yes.
There's talk of him
being disinherited
if he continues on
the way he is, and so,
he may need an alternative
source of income.
All right,
so you and Neily talked, and...
No.
No, he never showed.
What took you
into the office then?
I heard a scuttle.
I-I thought it might be Neily,
but I went inside to check,
and no one was there.
Then what happened?
I heard a sound,
a gentle clattering
from behind me,
like something
falling to the ground,
and then...
[sighing]
...everything went dark.
Someone
may have knocked you out.
Turn around.
What?
Just...
- Ow!
- Sorry.
Careful.
Sorry!
There's a bump, and...
...and gold flecks.
What does that mean?
[knocking]
Emma.
How are you?
I'm really sorry
about what happened last night.
It was...
must have been a lot.
Thank you.
Look what I found
in Brady's hair.
[Jesse] Gold flecks.
[Emma] Just like those
from Goddard's wound,
and Brady has a goose egg, too.
Someone hit them both.
I'll have them compared.
Thank you.
Not at all.
Jesse, this proves
that someone else
was in the room.
It's possible,
but I've been going over
the statements
gathered last night,
and there's no guarantee
as to who that might be.
Here...
I think I may be able
to help with that.
[Jesse] What's this?
[Emma] A list of everyone
I recall seeing
just prior
to Mr. Goddard's death.
Those on the guest list
who don't appear on my list
are all surely suspects...
[chuckles in appreciation]
...and if you haven't yet found
the stolen plans...
Um, we-we haven't.
Then you can likely focus
on those guests
who would be interested
in matters
pertaining to Uncle Cornelius'
railway business.
[chuckling]
Brilliant.
Thank you.
Of course.
Anything I can do
to help you help Brady.
Speaking of which,
there is someone
I suspect might be involved
who you won't find on any list.
And who's that?
Mr. David Mason.
He's the head butler
at The Breakers,
but Mr. Goddard
dismissed him yesterday.
I'm not sure why,
or what use he would have
with the stolen plans, but...
His dismissal gives him motive.
I'll have to speak
to your uncle about it.
If...
he'll give me the time of day.
I believe I can help
with that, too.
[Jesse] Thank you
for seeing me, sir.
Yes, well, my niece
can be very convincing.
So, what is it you need
from me, Detective?
The stolen railway plans.
I was wondering who else
besides you and Mr. Goddard
were aware of them.
I'll leave you two to talk.
[Cornelius] This is ridiculous.
It's as clear as day.
Brady did this.
That may be true, sir,
but in the interest
of thoroughness...
[Cornelius]
Two people knew of my plans.
My son, Neily,
and my former butler, Mr. Mason.
Daddy doesn't know
what he's talking about.
What do you mean?
Goddard
flashed those plans around
to anyone who paid him
half a mind.
So, it's impossible to know
how many people
really knew about them.
Exactly.
Look, I know it's bad
to gossip about people
who are... well, dead...
but I think
he liked the attention.
What about Neily?
Does he like the attention
courting Grace Winslow
is bringing?
My goodness, there is
so much drama about all of that.
What is Neily thinking?
I wish I knew.
Daddy said it's treasonous.
He hoped Mr. Goddard
would split them up,
but that's not
going to happen now.
Wait, your father
got Goddard involved?
That must have made Neily
furious.
Are you suggesting that Neily
could have been the one
who killed Mr. Goddard?
[]
Just try to ignore
the prying eyes.
Easier said than done.
It seems not everyone
is as keen to be associated
with the half sister
of an accused murderer,
as you are.
Don't worry,
there'll be something new
to gossip over in a day or two.
Here's hoping.
You know, we've barely seen
one another
since you married Mr. Halstock
and moved to New York.
Is it as glamorous
as you expected?
Yes...
and no.
The city is wonderful,
but I haven't exactly
been accepted
by Mrs. Astor and her set.
It's been quite lonely,
if I'm honest.
Oh, Adelaide, I'm sorry.
I shouldn't moan about it,
given what you're going through.
I knew it would take time
for them to accept
an ordinary Newport girl
marrying into
their rarified world.
But it's been three years.
All the more reason
not to discuss it today.
I asked you here
to check in on you.
How are you holding up?
As well as can be expected.
I know Brady didn't kill anyone.
I suspect the true killer
knocked him unconscious
and left him to take the blame.
Who would do
something like that?
I have a few theories.
Plus the notes I took
for my report on the ball.
I'm hoping they may
illuminate something.
Well, if anyone can
figure out this puzzle,
it's you.
Mr. Mason!
Miss Vanderbilt-Cross.
Do you have a moment? I'd like to speak
to you about Alvin Goddard.
I'm rather in a hurry today.
Perhaps another time.
Oh, but...
Miss Vanderbilt-Cross, hello.
Hello, Miss Dickerson.
I came to return
the gown you lent me.
Is that Mrs. Halstock's?
It is.
A section of the bodice
has been torn.
I just hope my repair
will do
the original work justice.
With your skill?
Of course, it will.
You're very kind.
Forgive any impertinence, but...
how are you?
This can't be an easy day.
It's not.
Between the prying eyes
and the sneers...
It goes to show
you can't buy manners.
Keep your head up, dear.
You've nothing to be ashamed of.
Thank you.
Good day.
Good day...
[]
Miss...
It's you.
Are you all right?
I believe so.
Thank you.
I'm afraid the lout
who pushed you
ran off with your handbag.
With all my notes.
You were attacked.
I'm sure your editor
will understand.
No, they weren't for work.
Still, I suppose
it could be worse.
Thank you for your help,
Mr...?
Derrick.
Anderson.
Mr. Derrick Anderson.
Emma Vanderbilt-Cross.
Well, it's a pleasure
to make your acquaintance
officially,
Miss Vanderbilt-Cross.
Might I offer you a ride home?
Thank you, but that
wouldn't be appropriate.
I can arrange
a carriage for hire.
That would take hours
on a Sunday.
Please, I just rented one
from Tabb's.
It's the least I can do.
If you insist.
This way.
What's brought you to...
That was quite an evening,
wasn't it?
[chuckling awkwardly]
Please, you first.
I was simply asking
what's brought you to Newport.
A mix of business and pleasure,
and I haven't seen
the grand cottages in person,
so when the assignment
was offered,
I leapt at the chance.
An assignment?
Are you a reporter?
I write the women's pages
for our local paper.
Ah.
Is something wrong?
No, not at all, it's just...
there's a spot of dirt.
It must have happened
when you fell.
Oh, goodness. Um...
Did I get it?
May I?
Thank you, Mr. Anderson.
Derrick, please.
Oh, I couldn't.
We've only just met.
True,
but I must confess,
I do know you,
by reputation at least,
and I have a question or two
for you.
You mean...
because of my half-brother...
his arrest?
Half-brother? No, I...
Stop the carriage now, please!
Miss Vanderbilt-Cross...
[knocking]
I said stop the carriage!
Please, this is just
a misunderstanding...
The only misunderstanding
is you believing
I would be foolish enough
to answer
a newspaperman's questions
simply because
he was kind to me.
I promise you,
that's not the case.
If you would allow me
to explain...
No, Mr. Anderson,
I don't think so.
What's happened?
You look like
you've been through the wars.
The results of meeting
a pickpocket
on Bellevue Avenue.
Oh, dear.
Are you all right?
Yes.
Just a few bumps and bruises.
There must be
something in the air.
Why do you say that?
Adelaide asked me
to call at her home earlier.
She was looking for
medical advice
for a nasty bruise
on her forearm.
I wonder
what could have happened.
An accident involving
her husband, apparently.
I wonder what kind of accident
that could have been?
She wouldn't say.
At any rate,
I came by to ask
how your conversation
with your boss went.
Will you be writing
the investigative piece
on Mr. Goddard's murder?
No.
Mr. Milford told me
in no uncertain terms
to stay far away
from the scandal.
I'm sorry.
I know you how badly
you want to see Brady freed.
I do,
but perhaps
letting the professionals
lead the way
is for the best.
Especially since you have
a special friendship
with the lead detective.
Jesse and I haven't made
any declarations,
and you know I'm uncertain
about whether to marry at all.
Well, you know what they say,
there's nothing like
a shared project
to hasten things along.
[chuckling] Harriet...
[chuckling]
[]
Nanny must have gotten ideas
when I said
we were dining together.
How was your day?
Quite full, in fact.
Amongst other things,
I ran into Mr. Mason.
Did you speak to him?
I tried.
He was in some hurry.
That's suspicious.
Wait, you didn't try
to question him, did you?
The opportunity
presented itself,
so I took it.
Especially since Nanny hasn't
been able to discover
where he's been living
since he was dismissed.
How was your day?
Did you get results back
for the gold flecks
in Brady's hair?
I did.
They're gilded wood.
Just like the flecks
in Goddard's wound.
It's likely both men were hit
with the same weapon.
Well, perhaps the dent I noticed
in the balcony doorframe
at the office
was made by it as well.
That's good thinking.
Another weapon
certainly indicates
someone else was in the room.
I bet it was Mr. Mason.
Perhaps.
Though I did notice
something strange
on the list you provided for me.
What's that?
Your cousin, Neily,
wasn't on it.
Oh.
You noticed that, did you?
Well, you didn't think
to tell me?
I don't believe Neily
could have killed someone,
Jesse.
He knew about the plans, Emma.
He did,
but, apparently,
Mr. Goddard was trying
to stymie his love affair.
So he had a motive, too.
This is just so awful.
I'm sorry,
we shouldn't discuss the case.
It's just been a difficult day.
Everyone... staring at me
and gossiping
about what happened.
I'm sorry.
I suppose
I have to get used to it.
That and feckless reporters.
Reporters?
Yes,
a man by the name
of Derrick Anderson
ingratiated himself to me,
and then proceeded to say
he had a few questions.
Honestly, the nerve.
Hopefully, this will all
be resolved soon,
and we can go back to normal.
[]
[Emma sighing]
I don't believe this!
[Nanny]
What on Earth's the matter?
Look!
[Nanny]
Jesus, Mary and Joseph!
Whatever happened
to being respectful?
I wish I knew.
Milford practically declares
Brady's guilt.
Says he likely killed Goddard
when he caught him
stealing the plans.
I'm going to go to have a word
with him this minute.
Oh! Didn't he tell you
to keep your nose
out of the story?
He did,
and I suppose I should,
if I want to keep my job
and a roof over our heads.
It's all just so frustrating.
Oh, it is,
but, hopefully, the whole ordeal
will be over before long.
Well, according
to Milford's article,
it's as good as over now.
Yes, well...
perhaps Mr. Milford should, uh,
spend more time
amongst the servant class.
Why is that?
Well, you didn't hear it
from me,
but, apparently,
there's some sort of
secret bidding war
for the stolen plans.
- A bidding war?
- Mm-hmm.
Engineered by whom?
Well, whoever stole them,
I suppose.
The word is
it's being conducted via phone
by an anonymous seller.
[knocking briskly]
An anonymous seller
is telephoning
wealthy businessmen
offering to sell them
the stolen plans!
Don't you see?
Whoever that is
must be Mr. Goddard's killer.
Mason, or... or Neily, or...
What's happened?
I spoke to the chief of police,
and despite the mounting
evidence saying otherwise...
...Brady's to be
formally charged.
But they can't do that,
it's ignoring evidence...
I tried explaining that
to them, but...
There must be something
you can do.
Cornelius spoke to the chief.
He doesn't want
the press involved.
I can't investigate.
I can.
Emma...
It may ruin my life,
but nothing is as important
as proving Brady's innocence.
You're serious, aren't you?
I've never been more so
in my life.
Then I'll help you do it.
But you just said you can't...
Well, I know that I can't
investigate officially, but...
Well, you shouldn't
have to do it alone.
We'll find a way to solve
Brady's case together.
Somehow.
Neily.
This is a surprise.
What is this I hear
about you making accusations
about me to Gertrude?
Do you really believe
I could've killed Mr. Goddard?
I don't know
what to believe, Neily.
Gertrude told me
that Mr. Goddard was trying
to split you and Grace up.
"Trying" being
the operative word.
His attempts were feeble.
Even this threat
of being disinherited?
Even that.
I'll make a go of it on my own.
Stolen railway plans would
really help you in that regard.
I didn't steal
those plans, Emma.
Nor did I kill Goddard!
Then why didn't you meet Brady
as you'd planned
during the ball?
Is this an interrogation?
I got caught up with Grace.
Okay?
And I'm not sorry for that.
She's the love of my life, Emma.
Well then, I'm happy for you.
Thank you,
and I'm sorry
if my missing Brady
got him into all this trouble,
but I had nothing to do
with what happened.
All right?
All right.
Well, in that case, I'm off.
I was meant to meet the family
at the polo grounds
15 minutes ago.
[]
- Are you all right?
- Yes.
Yes, of course.
So you're off to polo?
With the whole family?
Even Father.
You can't tell me
I'm not trying to make it work.
[Jesse] I have to say,
I didn't realize
you'd take my promise
that we were in this together
quite so literally.
You said you wanted
a second look
at the crime scene,
and when I saw
Neily's polo mallet...
You said it was gilded wood?
Yes, but he swears
he had nothing to do
with Goddard's murder.
Well, he had motive,
you said it yourself.
His mallet might be
the mystery weapon
we're looking for.
Only one way to find out.
Thank you so much
for allowing us to look for
my lost earring
while the family is out.
Did you hear what she said
about why Goddard
dismissed Mr. Mason?
I did, but what cause
would Mason have
to risk dismissal
by going through papers
in your uncle's office?
Perhaps he was looking
for the railway plans.
The ball would have been
a good time
for him to sneak back in
and get them,
and if Goddard saw him...
Let's not
get ahead of ourselves.
We're here to look at the dent
you spotted the night of the murder.
If we can match it
to Neily's polo mallet,
Mason's moot as a suspect.
You're right,
it's just over here.
Here.
[Jesse] Flecks of gilded wood.
It could belong
to our mystery weapon.
There was a person here.
What are you doing?
I'm taking a rubbing...
...to see what the pattern is.
Do you recognize it?
The head of Neily's polo mallet,
it's whorled like that.
I'm sorry, Em.
I know
you didn't want to believe
that your cousin killed Goddard.
Yeah...
I can't believe it.
What is that?
Like a gold chain of some sort.
Brady recalls
hearing something clatter
to the ground
just before
he was knocked unconscious.
Do you think
it could be that chain?
It's possible.
I mean...
is this something
that Neily would own?
I mean, a gold watch chain?
No,
not that I recognize.
[]
[Nanny] The eggs are always
the freshest at the market...
Mr. Mason.
Miss Vanderbilt-Cross,
and Miss O'Neal,
what a lovely surprise.
Where in heaven have you been?
I've been looking for you
for two days.
I heard that you've moved on
from The Breakers.
Yes.
I'd...
I'd been trying to keep
the news quiet.
I understand your dismissal
was Mr. Goddard's decision?
Oh, please excuse
Emma's brazenness.
She's had a hard couple of days.
I've no doubt.
I was terribly sorry
to hear about Brady.
Aren't you a dear.
We've just bought
some fresh berries.
Care to join us?
Well, that's very kind of you,
I'd love to.
Let me just finish up here.
Now, where the devil are they?
- [Mason chuckling]
- [Nanny] You should really
keep those on a chain,
keep them from getting lost.
I do have one,
it's just misplaced.
I'm terribly sorry,
I'm afraid I must go.
Well, why on earth is that?
I forgot that I have a meeting,
with, um...
with Mr. Milford.
[Jesse] So you said
you had reason to believe
this belonged to Mr. Mason?
Yes.
I think it may belong
to his reading glasses.
Hmm.
So, a chain
possibly belonging to Mason,
and a dent
possibly made
by Neily's polo mallet.
We need something
more definitive
if we're to free Brady.
We need the stolen plans.
It would certainly help to know
who's been trying to sell them.
Well, perhaps
I'll be able to discover
something about that
at today's clambake picnic.
I expect most of the business
barons summering here
will be on hand.
Speaking of which,
I need to return home
to get ready.
I'm sorry
for coming unannounced,
and for the other day
in your office.
I'm afraid I've been
terribly familiar, Jesse.
You needn't apologize, Em.
I like your familiarity...
...and I wanted to ask,
since I'm being honest...
Please...
not today.
Until we've found a way
to free Brady,
I can't even consider
what my future holds.
Of course.
I...
I understand.
[]
Fancy meeting you here.
I wouldn't have expected
a clambake
to be fodder
for the women's pages.
I suspect
none of my male colleagues
were interested
in getting their feet wet...
[chuckling]
...and truthfully, I'm glad
to have been sent
to cover the event.
Between you and me,
there's gossip
whoever stole the railway plans
is trying to sell them,
and since many of his business
associates are here...
You may be able to learn
who it is.
Exactly.
Shall we take a turn
about the party
to see what we can discover?
Yes, let's.
[chuckling]
I'm surprised the summer set
have decided to embrace
this particular
Newport tradition,
I have to say.
The sway of novelty is strong.
You know what this
reminds me of?
That nest we built
for that injured baby bird
at The Breakers playhouse.
Do you remember?
How could I forget?
I wonder what remains
in that hidey-hole
after all these years.
Dust mites, I'd imagine.
[giggling]
Oh, it's good to have a laugh.
Harriet told me
about your bruise.
Are you all right?
Yes.
It's nothing to worry about.
Rupert's illness,
it sometimes makes him lash out.
Adelaide, I had no idea
he was that ill.
You must be struggling.
I'd rather not discuss it.
Besides, he's feeling
much better today.
Is that so?
Yes, he's around here...
somewhere,
speaking to your cousin,
in fact.
Neily?
I wasn't aware
they knew one another.
Only socially,
but Neily wanted to have a word
about a business opportunity
of some kind?
It's all well over my head.
Would you excuse me a moment?
I need to freshen up.
Of course.
Ah, Miss Vanderbilt-Cross.
I have nothing
to say to you, sir.
I assure you,
I have no wish
to invade your privacy
in regards to
your half-brother's arrest.
Then what is it
you want from me?
I'm not here for you at all,
Miss Vanderbilt-Cross.
Do you wish I were?
You are incorrigible.
Forgive me.
In truth,
my curiosity
got the better of me
when I saw Rupert Halstock
on his way here.
I heard a doctor
was called to his home.
And how did you hear that?
Did Mrs. Halstock mention
anything to you
about her husband's health?
Were you spying on us?
I won't share details
of a private conversation
with my oldest friend,
especially not with a reporter.
Fair enough,
but there are perhaps
some things you should know.
No.
I'll not listen to another word
of your nonsense, sir.
[]
[hoofbeats, horses nickering]
[Emma] Oh, Barney, what a day.
[horse nickering]
It feels we're no closer
to discovering
who killed Mr. Goddard
than we were yesterday.
What in the world?
Driver!
Driver, you're coming
on the wrong side of the road!
- Driver!
- [horses neighing]
It's okay. It's okay, Barney.
We're going to be okay.
[racing hoofbeats]
[horses neighing in panic]
This was no accident.
Well, I hate to say it,
but I think you're right.
Perhaps we should
take a step back
and reassess
whether our investigating's
a good idea.
With Brady's life on the line?
Absolutely not.
Well, you need to be
more careful.
I'd never forgive myself
if anything happened to you.
Nor I you,
but we must continue.
[sighing]
All right, well,
do you have any idea
who may have attacked you?
I can arrange
a carriage for hire.
Please, I just
rented one from Tabb's.
It's the least I can do.
I do.
Derrick Anderson.
The reporter?
The carriage that hit me
was a rental from Tabb's,
just like he drove me in
the other day.
You were in a carriage
alone with him?
Not for long,
and only because
I was covered in dirt...
the result of being robbed
in the street.
Robbed? When?
Two days ago.
My purse was stolen,
and my notebook along with it...
[sighing]
...but it was nothing serious.
Perhaps not in isolation,
but considering you were just
run off the road?
The two things may be connected.
Not to mention
this reporter's been present
on both occasions.
I hadn't considered that.
I did some asking around
when you told me he tried
to question you about Brady.
No one knows a man
by the name of Derrick Anderson.
But he was at the ball
the other night.
I'll sneak a look
at Tabb's rental ledger,
see if either of
our other suspects
rented carriages.
Okay.
We are going to find out
who tried to hurt you.
I promise you that.
[]
Gertrude.
I'm so glad you could make it
to tea today.
I simply had to get
out of the house.
Should I take that to mean
Uncle Cornelius
remains in a dark mood?
And how.
He is still so upset
about the theft of those plans,
and the way he goes on
about Brady, well...
Oh, Emma,
what a terrible thing
for me to say, I'm sorry.
Not at all.
Your father has a right
to be upset,
even if we disagree
about who bears responsibility
for the thefts.
How is Brady?
I've been meaning
to go and see him,
but my father
would never allow it.
Would you give him my best?
I will,
but let's not talk about
all that,
it's just too dreadful.
Agreed.
I did have one question
about the evening
of the ball, though.
Of course,
anything.
I was wondering
if you know something
about a particular gentleman
who was in attendance
at the ball.
Have you met someone at last?
Perhaps.
How wonderful!
Well, in that case,
I will tell you anything I can.
What is this gentleman's name?
Mr. Derrick Anderson.
Anderson...
Are you sure that was it?
Yes.
I believe him to be
a reporter of some ilk.
You must be mistaken.
Mother would have never
invited another reporter...
other than you, that is...
on the guest list.
Oh.
How strange.
It is, quite,
but, not to worry,
I'm sure you'll run into him
at some point.
Yes.
Yes, perhaps.
So did you hear about the fracas
at the Yacht Club last night?
I hadn't, no.
It was entirely scandalous.
Your friend Adelaide's husband
went absolutely mad
at a staff member.
How so?
Mr. Halstock is so frail.
He certainly wasn't
last evening.
He was screaming
and waving
that cane of his around.
Oh, my.
You should have seen it.
I swear was going to hit
the poor waiter
with that ram's head-topper
at one point.
Gertrude, his cane,
you said it was fashioned
like a ram's head?
Whorled horns and all.
[]
- I came as soon as I could.
- We have another suspect.
Rupert Halstock
apparently had
an outrageous outburst
at the Yacht Club last night.
Was it connected to the case?
No, but his cane may be.
According to Gertrude,
the topper is shaped
like a ram's head,
and the horns are whorled.
It may match the dent
in Uncle Cornelius' office.
This complicates matters.
The Halstocks
were on the list of Tabb's
for rental carriages yesterday.
Rupert could be our killer.
I'll visit him today,
under the guise of his outburst,
and see what I can ascertain.
Okay.
I'll plan an outing
with Adelaide.
Very good,
and I'm afraid Mr. Halstock
wasn't the only person
who rented a carriage that day.
Both Neily and Mason
did as well.
So much for narrowing
our suspect list.
With Derrick Anderson
and Rupert in the mix,
it's doubled.
About that.
There was no Derrick Anderson
in the rental ledger.
There was a Derrick Andrews.
He's been lying about who he is.
Derrick Andrews is no reporter,
he's son and heir
to a Boston newspaper publisher.
Why would he lie
about something like that?
Perhaps the business section
of today's Observer
may be able to answer
that question.
Yes,
here it is.
"Renowned publisher
Mr. J. Andrews
has invested significantly
in a new elevated railway
that's set to be built
in Chicago."
That gives Derrick motive
for wanting Cornelius' plans.
And a reason
to want to intimidate me
into not investigating
the theft,
or Goddard's murder.
It's a good theory,
but let's not rule out
the others.
Mr. Halstock
could still be our killer.
Not to mention Neily
or Mr. Mason.
Oh, Emma!
It's just terrible.
You've been fired
from the newspaper!
I don't understand
what cause Mr. Milford
could possibly have
to fire you.
You've stayed well clear
of the hubbub around Brady.
Haven't you?
Not... exactly.
Jesse and I have been
quietly investigating
who killed Mr. Goddard,
and, apparently,
Milford received
an anonymous note
telling him as much.
Likely from the same person
who tried to attack you.
Please don't be upset.
Well, I am,
and mostly because
you didn't consult me.
You know very well
I'm an expert
in these sorts of things,
thanks to the writing of
Arthur Conan Doyle.
I quite like Conan Doyle's
stories myself, Nanny,
but reading detective fiction
and investigating
an actual murder
are quite different.
I've no doubt they're that,
but it doesn't mean
that I can't help.
Now, tell me...
...who are your suspects?
Very well.
There are four suspects
we believe could be
Mr. Goddard's true killer.
Derrick Andrews,
a newspaper heir from Boston,
Cousin Neily...
No, Emma, he wouldn't.
We have reason to believe
he may have.
Likewise with Rupert Halstock,
and Mr. Mason.
Mr. Mason?
Why on earth
would you think that?
He had motive.
And we don't know where he was
the night of the murder.
He didn't do that,
I know it for a fact.
Well, could you possibly
know that?
Because...
...he was with me.
[]
Miss Vanderbilt-Cross,
hello again.
If I had known you were coming,
I would have brought
an extra glass.
Thank you,
but I'm only here for a moment.
I had some questions
about your dismissal
from The Breakers.
I see.
But first, I suppose
I should offer
my congratulations.
Nanny hadn't told me
you two were an item.
I suppose that makes us even
on the secrets front,
doesn't it?
I suppose it does.
It was Mr. Goddard
who dismissed you, correct?
I understand he found you
in my uncle's office.
Yes.
I was trying to discover
the root of the rivalry
between the Vanderbilts
and Grace Winslow's family.
Why's that?
I'd hoped
by discovering why it began,
Neily would have a means
by which to end it,
so that he and Grace
could be together,
but Mr. Goddard found me
and dismissed me on the spot.
Said he'd keep Neily
and Miss Winslow apart,
no matter what.
Why on earth was he so intent
on breaking
two young people's hearts?
Mr. Goddard seemed
to take pleasure
in causing others unhappiness.
No wonder Neily's
been so upset about it all.
Perhaps Neily
did do the unthinkable.
We could always go
to Gull Cottage.
It's more private.
Hiding will just invite
more talk.
Are you sure?
If people want to be ignorant
about Rupert's
medical condition,
I can't stop them.
There's the feisty Adelaide
I remember.
You're a good friend, Emma.
I try to be.
Although, I must confess
that my invitation to walk today
wasn't entirely innocent.
How do you mean?
I wanted to spare you
the strain of being home
when Detective Whyte called
to speak with Rupert.
Why on earth would the police...
Does this have something to do
with your attempts
to help your brother?
Please don't be mad.
Don't be...
Emma, how could you?
Rupert has bad days,
but he could never hurt anyone.
Well, I didn't think so either,
but after his outburst yesterday
at the restaurant...
He was just confused.
Accusing a sick old man
isn't the way to free Brady,
especially when there's
an obvious suspect
in your own family.
You mean Neily?
Of course.
At the clambake, he told Rupert
he was in the process
of securing seed money
for his own endeavors.
Where else would he get
that kind of money except...
except the stolen plans.
Exactly.
If you ask me, it's he
who's been trying to sell them.
I need to get home.
There's no telling
how Rupert will be
after being questioned
by the police.
[sighing testily]
Oh, Neily...
it's time I find out
what you're really up to.
[]
I hate that we have to keep
meeting in secret like this.
As do I, my love,
but it's better like this
than not at all.
A lovers' rendezvous.
Of course.
[can clattering]
Who's there?
[yelping in alarm] Ah!
Let go of me!
Let go!
[man] Hey!
Leave her alone!
[cries out in pain]
Miss Vanderbilt-Cross.
You.
What did... Are you all right?
You've been lying to me.
Excuse me?
About who you really are.
You're no businessman
on assignment.
Emma...
No, you haven't earned
the right to call me that.
I swear,
I can explain everything.
Now isn't the place or the time.
Of course, you're right.
Perhaps we can meet tomorrow?
I'll explain
whatever you want to know.
You may call me at my home,
Gull Cottage, at 11:00.
Good evening, Mr. Anderson.
Excuse me,
Mr. Andrews.
I'm fine, truly.
Just shaken.
Yeah, I'd say.
But despite that,
we've narrowed our suspect list
down to one.
How'd you figure?
Well, we've already
ruled out Mr. Mason,
and Neily was with Grace
when I was attacked,
so it wasn't him.
I imagine you're quite relieved.
Very.
We can also eliminate
Derrick Andrews.
It was he who frightened off
my assailant.
What was a railway heir
doing in that part of town?
That is something
I've yet to discover.
The point is,
that leaves us
with just one suspect...
Rupert Halstock.
What did you discover
from your visit with him
yesterday?
Well, for starters,
he's heavily invested
in rail stocks.
Which would give him motive
to steal the plans.
Yes, and the handle of his cane
was shaped similar to the dent
in the doorframe...
...from the murder weapon.
- But?
But I doubt he had the strength
to push Goddard off the balcony,
and he swore he didn't know
Cornelius' plans existed
until after the ball.
Am I keeping you from something?
Of course not.
Though I am expecting
Mr. Andrews any minute.
Andrews? Why?
I have a feeling
he holds a piece
of this confusing puzzle.
Come.
Mr. Andrews,
I'm prepared to hear
your explanation.
Straight down to business,
is it, Miss Vanderbilt-Cross?
Well, you're hardly
in a position
to be given any niceties,
given your unexplained
appearances
in the last few days.
And you are?
Detective Jesse Whyte.
Of the Newport Constabulary.
I assure you,
Miss Vanderbilt-Cross,
nothing I have to tell you
requires the presence
of an officer of the law.
Jesse is a friend.
Ah, I see.
Well, be that as it may,
I prefer a private audience.
Is that really necessary?
What I have to tell you
is of a rather delicate nature.
Very well.
Would you give us a few moments?
I don't see that
as at all appropriate.
I'll be fine.
I'll be close by.
There,
we're alone.
So?
I came to Newport
to attend the ball
with my father,
Mr. J. Andrews.
He's trying to make inroads
with the railway barons,
and, frankly,
quite keen on me to settle down
and start a family...
...but I've decided to stay
for another reason entirely.
Which was?
Rupert Halstock's sister
is a friend.
She's concerned
for his well-being,
and has asked that
I investigate while I'm here.
And what does that
have to do with me?
Over the last few days,
you've been something
of my shadow.
I've enjoyed our paths crossing,
Miss Vanderbilt-Cross,
very much,
but it isn't you
that I've been shadowing.
I insist you drop
these half answers at once
and tell me,
what concerns
are you investigating,
and how am I relevant to them?
I believe
Rupert Halstock's wife...
Adelaide, your friend...
has been slowly poisoning
her husband.
[chuckling in disbelief]
That's ridiculous.
Mr. Halstock's illness
defies all logic.
According to his sister,
it's come on very suddenly,
and from what I've learned,
it ebbs and flows,
seemingly without reason.
That's hardly evidence
Adelaide has been poisoning him.
True,
which is exactly why
I was outside the warehouse
last night.
I'm afraid I don't follow.
I believe Adelaide has been
visiting the neighborhood
to illicitly purchase poison.
How can you be certain?
She may simply be obtaining
some kind of medicine,
or perhaps something
having nothing to do
with her husband at all.
I know this must be upsetting,
but I had to prove to you
that I had no involvement
in the murder
for which your half-brother
has been accused.
I couldn't live with myself,
knowing that you thought
I would try to harm you
or anyone close to you.
[footsteps approaching]
Oh, goodness.
Emma, dear, may I have a word?
What is it?
Is everything all right?
Far from it.
I've just had a telephone call
from a young maid whom I helped
secure a position for.
She was so upset,
she was going
a hundred miles an hour.
What's happened?
Rupert Halstock is dead.
Dead?
Was it poison?
I've no idea.
What would make you think
something like that?
I'm terribly sorry,
but something urgent
has come up.
Still, I'm grateful to know
the true reason
for your presence in Newport.
And I'm grateful to have
cleared the air between us.
I expect I'll be gone
in the next day or two,
given that my business here
is complete.
Oh.
But...
I'd like to see you again
before then,
if you'd be willing.
Yes,
I'd like that, too.
Until then.
Well, what did Mr. Andrews
have to say for himself?
Mr. Andrews' information
isn't important at the moment.
Rupert Halstock is dead.
What? How?
I don't know.
Nanny just told me.
I'm detective on duty.
I need to be at the scene, Emma.
Well, I'm coming with you.
- Emma...
- No, his death
may have something to do
with the case,
and, besides, Adelaide
will need a friend by her side.
[]
How horrible.
[Adelaide] I didn't mean to.
[Emma] Adelaide, what happened?
He attacked me.
Your husband attacked you?
It's happened before, Jesse.
- Emma...
- No, he needs to know.
Mr. Halstock's illness
sometimes makes him violent.
[Adelaide]
It wasn't that this time.
I overheard him talking
on the telephone
about the missing plans.
You were right, Emma,
he stole them, and...
[gasping back sobs]
...and he must have killed
Mr. Goddard in the process.
[Jesse] How did overhearing
this conversation
lead to this man's death?
I confronted him.
Said if he didn't confess,
then I'd go to the police.
I couldn't bear the thought
of Brady suffering one more day
for something he didn't do,
but Rupert said
he'd do no such thing.
He wanted me to swear
I wouldn't either,
and when I wouldn't...
He attacked you.
I thought he was gonna kill me.
I... I grabbed
the first thing I saw.
[Jesse] I'll need to take
that cane into evidence.
I'm feeling awfully overwhelmed.
M... might I lie down
for a few moments?
Of course.
[]
Will this be enough
to free Brady?
It's difficult to say.
A statement from Adelaide
may help convince the chief
that he's innocent.
But?
It would be better
if we could find
the stolen plans
on the premises.
Okay.
So we'll mount a search.
Yes, and I'll call
the coroner's office.
Okay, I'll speak to Adelaide.
She may have an idea
of where they are.
Okay.
Addie?
Is that Mrs. Halstock's?
[Miss Dickerson] It is.
A section of the bodice
has been torn.
That gown.
What is that?
That chain
wasn't Mason's at all...
What weapon did she use?
I left my cane
in the smoking room.
You'll have to go up and get it.
Rupert's cane.
Of course.
Where did she hide those plans?
[Emma] I wonder what remains
in that hidey-hole
after all these years.
Dust mites, I'd imagine.
[giggling]
Adelaide...
...what have you done?
[gun cocking]
You have to understand...
...I never meant
for this to happen.
I was only trying
to reclaim my freedom.
How was that?
Marrying Rupert gave me access
to the finer things,
but he made my life miserable.
I had to get away.
By stealing?
From my uncle?
I needed money,
and Mr. Goddard
was flashing the plans around,
calling them priceless.
So you always planned
to sell them?
I thought they'd bring
a new life for me.
So when Mr. Goddard said
he was returning them
to the office,
I followed him.
I'd hoped to grab them
without him noticing...
But he saw you.
He attacked me!
Shook me like a rag doll.
I had to fight back!
With Rupert's cane?
Yes...
but, Emma,
I wasn't trying to kill him.
How could I have known
he would fall from the balcony?
Please.
You have to believe me.
Even if I did,
my half-brother is in jail
because of what you did,
and your husband is dead!
I know,
and it's horrible,
all of it,
but I had no choice.
Truly.
When Rupert discovered
what I'd done,
he threatened to tell
your uncle.
I'd have been ruined!
Ruined?
Brady could hang!
No...
Don't you see?
I came here
to retrieve the plans.
Just let me take them home
and leave them
for the police to find.
That way, Brady will be freed,
and everything
can go back to normal.
All I'm asking
is for you to keep my secret.
Please, Emma.
We've been friends for so long.
No, this...
this can't be. Brady!
[Derrick] I'm afraid
the lout who pushed you
ran off with your handbag.
All my notes.
Ah! Get off of me!
I'm sorry, Adelaide.
I won't.
I'm sorry, too.
It's over, Adelaide!
Please, no, you must understand.
Oh, I think I do.
[cocking gun]
You're under arrest
for the murder of Alvin Goddard
and Rupert Halstock.
[door lock clanking open]
[laughing]
What's going on?
You're gonna squeeze
the life out of me!
Has something happened?
Oh, Brady, so much has happened.
Dare... dare I ask?
We found Goddard's true killer.
You're free to go, Brady.
[]
[laughing in relief]
[]
[Emma] To Brady's exoneration.
To Brady!
[]
The coroner's report
on Mr. Halstock's death
confirms
Adelaide was poisoning him.
She must have been
truly miserable
to go to such lengths.
No marriage could be
miserable enough
to justify everything she did.
Some, though,
can be quite lovely.
I've heard it helps
to marry a friend.
Excuse me a moment.
Well, without you,
Brady would still
be behind bars.
Without you,
Adelaide could have killed me.
You've just received
the most wonderful note!
You really must stop
opening my correspondence.
Mr. Milford has offered you
your job back at the newspaper.
Oh, that's wonderful news.
Uh, he lists one condition.
What's that?
That you refrain
from getting involved
in future police matters.
Well, I don't plan
on making a habit of it.
That's settled then.
Though, I must say,
the two of you do make
a wonderful team.
- [cork popping]
- Oh...
champagne.
Don't mind if I do.
Would you be so kind
as to pour me a glass, Brady?
We do make quite a good team,
don't we?
We do.
Well, now Brady's free,
I wanted to ask you...
maybe it would be a good time
to ask you,
- I mean...
- [knocking on door]
Who on earth could that be?
I'll get it.
You stay and celebrate.
Mr. Andrews.
What a surprise.
I'm sorry if I'm interrupting,
but I had hoped you could
spare a moment
before I head back to Boston.
You're leaving today?
I am,
but I wanted to see you,
and offer you
my congratulations.
If rumors are to be believed,
it's thanks to
your investigative skills
that your brother is free.
Well, I won't officially
take any credit,
but thank you.
You know, there is still
one mystery
I haven't been able to solve.
And what's that?
Why it is you chose to keep
your true identity from me.
Why do you presume
that the deceit was all for you?
[chuckling]
You truly are incorrigible.
You do know that,
don't you, Mr. Andrews?
I wanted to keep a low profile,
stay focused
on the task at hand.
Had people known
that Mr. Andrews' bachelor son
was staying on,
there would have been
endless invitations
from marriage-minded mothers.
Ah, yes,
and how horrible
it would have been
to spend time with a parade
of wealthy
and eligible young women.
I assure you,
Miss Vanderbilt-Cross...
Emma.
...if I am to marry,
Emma,
it would be with someone
far more interesting
and independent
than an heiress.
I should be off.
Of course.
I hope our paths
will cross soon.
Before the season ends.
That I can promise you.
[Emma writes]
"Since Susan B. Anthony's visit,
the idea that independence
brings happiness
has weighed on my mind.
I've realized that I'm lucky
to have an independence
which many women don't,
but it seems to me
that it's not simply
independence
that makes one happy,
it's what one chooses to do
with their independence...
...and perhaps,
that is where the adventure
really begins."
[]