Girls' School (1938) Movie Script
Linda Julia Simpson, you've been
out all night. Where have you been?
On the hockey field.
- What?
Listen, Betty... I've...
Oh but you won't believe...
- Linda, please. Double cross my heart.
I'm engaged.
- To Edgar?
Linda, how wonderful.
How does it feel? I mean,
how does it really feel?
To tell you the truth it...
It feels kind of funny.
How? Like before an algebra exam?
- Uhuh.
Betty, I...
If I tell you, it gets
all over the school.
Linda, I only tell the
really important things.
Well listen, then.
Edgar and I are going to elope.
Elope.
Edgar says it's the only civilized way.
But when, Linda?
- After the dance tonight.
After all, I can't miss
my own senior Prom.
Linda, nobody has ever proposed to me.
What do they do? Go down on their knees?
No, silly.
They kind of cough.
Then they tremble a little bit.
Then they take your hand
and... you're trembling.
And you had time to
make up a good answer?
I had a honey.
Had it since I was thirteen.
And when my time came,
I had to cough, so...
I just kind of nodded.
And Edgar put his arms around me.
And Betty, do you know what I did?
What?
I giggled. I couldn't help it.
Linda, do you have to say 'I love you'?
That was the hardest part.
It just wouldn't come.
So finally I promised I would
tonight on Engagement Bench.
And that's where it
really counts anyway.
Nobody's even ever tried to get
me on the Engagement Bench.
Well maybe Tommy will tonight.
Oh, he won't ask me.
He thinks I'm still a child.
Linda. I'm going to work it.
Don't you have to climb through
a window and everything?
No, no. Edgar says the modern
elopement is much more civilized.
Now, Betty. The minute the band
plays Goodnight Ladies...
You and I sneak up here and drop
my bag through the window.
Oh.
Oh Betty. The magnolias
were stunning last night.
The whole world was like
a bowl filled with their smell.
There were crickets, mockingbirds...
New grass.
Honestly, I don't think I saw or smelled
or really listened to anything before.
I'll never forget a
second of last night.
Never.
Edgar made a poem.
About magnolias not lasting long.
Or something.
Second bell. I'm starved.
Listen Betty, if you ever
tell one living soul...
Word of honor, hope to die.
Who is it?
- Natalie Freeman, Miss Laurel.
May I come in?
- Yes, dear. Come in.
No, wait. I look a fright. My goodness.
We always look a fright to the children.
Don't we, Natalie.
What is it, dear?
I have my Monitor's report, Miss Laurel.
- Oh yes.
Friday morning is always a low
point for both of us, isn't it Natalie.
Yes, Miss Laurel.
Well let's hear what dark and dreadful
deeds have been perpetrated this week.
Julie Patterson.
Absent from Chapel, Sunday.
Uhuh, I thought I didn't see her.
Ida Kenyon. Playing phonograph
after lights out on Tuesday.
Judith Walsh, late for
dinner on Wednesday.
But she wasn't so late, Miss Laurel.
They didn't even have
to re-warm her soup.
As long as they didn't have
to re-warm her soup...
I'm sure it will be alright.
Well.
I guess that's all.
It seems to me that more than that
has gone on in the past seven days.
Miss Laurel.
- Yes, Natalie?
I don't want to be Monitor any more.
You never did want to
be, did you Natalie?
But now I can't.
Listen to the child.
Why can't you, pray?
I'll do anything else
the school asks me to.
I'll work twice as long in the library.
I'll wait on tables. I'll do anything.
What has happened, child?
Nothing has happened, especially.
Only I can't keep on spying
on people anymore.
But... but you've been a
Monitor nearly four years now.
You're almost graduated.
As a scholarship student, you've
been given a free education, Natalie.
Now you won't complete
your part of the bargain.
Armie, please.
There must be some reason
at the back of all this.
Oh no, there is no real reason.
Who was it?
- Who was what?
Who did... whatever
you're talking about.
Nobody did... nobody did anything.
Nonsense. You've something
definite in mind. I know it.
Please Miss Armstrong, my book.
I thought as much.
Something has been erased here.
Now, Armie...
- What have you erased?
Oh, Armie. Let the girl alone.
If we don't get it out of her,
then Brewster will.
Now come, Natalie.
- No, no. I don't want to.
My dear, we all have to do
things we don't want to do.
If you've discovered
something such as a theft...
Nothing as bad as that.
Then what? There is something
behind the resignation.
I assure you we'll find out. We'll
cross-examine every girl in school.
But if we do that, we'll call
off the senior Prom tonight.
Oh you wouldn't.
My dear, it will go mighty hard with
you when all those girls realize that...
You were responsible for the...
- Alright. I'll tell you. I'll tell you.
One of the girls stayed out.
- How late?
All night.
- Who was it?
I can't tell you. I won't.
Very well.
There will be no dance tonight.
It was Linda Simpson.
Linda Simpson?
Are you sure, Natalie?
We must report this to
Dean Brewster immediately.
That will mean Linda's expulsion.
Well, we should feel very
proud or ourselves, Armie.
I was simply fulfilling my obligations.
We have a duty too, even
if you choose to ignore it.
I know.
Imagine her staying out all night.
Moonlight, too.
Where are you going?
I'm going to scold Linda Simpson.
Only I'm so jealous of
her I could spank her.
Poor Linda.
Poor Natalie.
Good morning, Miss Laurel.
A nice morning, isn't it.
It certainly is.
Come in. Come in whoever you are.
Why, Miss Laurel.
We thought you were one of the girls.
Thank you. I'm flattered.
Anyway, you're my favorite teacher.
Well I won't be when you
hear what I've come for.
My spelling, again?
Linda, what on earth do you
mean staying out all night?
How did you know?
- Now never mind that.
Will you...?
Have you told the Dean?
Dean Brewster will have to know.
I'll be expelled.
I won't graduate.
Where were you, child?
What were you doing all night?
I know you'll never believe
me Miss Laurel, but...
Edgar drove me straight back at twelve.
And then...
When I looked at the school it...
It looked exactly like a prison.
I just couldn't come in.
I don't expect you to believe me but...
I just couldn't.
Go on, child.
And then I found myself
daring Edgar to take me out.
Anywhere in the world, just so I would
not have to be shut up here in my room.
We went over to the hockey field.
Edgar recited poetry.
He's a poet, you know.
And... I don't know Miss Laurel.
I felt terribly happy.
Happier than I've ever been before.
Kind of grown-up and free.
Do you know what I mean?
I'm afraid I do, Linda.
Just the same there's a meeting of the
Student Government this afternoon.
With The Duchess?
- With Dean Brewster, yes.
In the meantime, you're to
remain here in your room.
I'll have meals sent up. You're on
probation. You mustn't speak to anyone.
Oh golly.
- Now remember, Linda.
You are on your honor.
Gee, what's so serious?
What did she say?
Was it about you being out all night?
I bet she's on probation.
Is that it, Linda?
Who told on you?
Beat it kids. You'll get her in trouble.
- What about you?
I'm her room-mate and best
girlfriend. Now come on. Out.
I'll tell you everything later.
- Betty.
What? I haven't told them
anything important, Linda.
Just that you were out all night.
I haven't told them you're eloping.
Are you still going to?
Are they going to expel you?
Will they let you go to the Prom?
Are they going to have a
Student Government meeting?
Gee, Lindy...
Breakfast.
Not a word, cross my heart, Linda.
You think it could be Natalie Freeman?
Gee, isn't it terrible.
Well gee, I absolutely promised
Linda I wouldn't tell.
But maybe if you promise...?
I can tell you a little.
She's positive Natalie reported her.
Didn't I tell you?
- And that's not the worst of it.
Furthermore.
Tell us, Betty.
I can't tell you why...
But it will be just awful if Linda
doesn't go to the dance tonight.
I mean, she and Edgar are in love.
Really in love.
- Rats. I don't believe in love.
All there is, is physical attraction.
Don't you believe in romance?
- Baloney.
We ought to fix that
Natalie Freeman, though.
She went right up and told old Laurelei.
While doing her duty in a kind of a way.
Duty? The little sneak.
She ought to be darn glad to
be allowed to associate with us.
Shush, The Duchess.
Good morning, Miss Brewster.
- Good morning, girls.
I really don't know what
to say, Miss Laurel.
One of our little girls. Out all night.
We've got to make an example of Linda.
I'm sure it was just an
innocent prank, Miss Brewster.
Innocent? Staying
out all night like a...
Like a heaven-knows-what.
What could... what could anybody
do all night on a hockey field?
I haven't the faintest
idea, Miss Brewster.
Good morning.
Our girls look just like
flowers in the spring.
They make me think of that lovely old
poem of Longfellow called 'Maidenhood'.
'Standing with reluctant feet'.
'Where the brook and river meet'.
Perhaps that's why we mustn't be
too hard on Linda, Miss Brewster.
She too is standing with reluctant feet.
Something must be done to make
her feel the error of her conduct.
The way of the transgressor,
my dear Miss Laurel.
Miss Brewster, must she be expelled?
What else is there to do?
Hey, Freeman. Did you hear about Linda?
Yes.
- She may be expelled.
Or perhaps you knew that already?
Well gee, being expelled
isn't so bad, but...
If Linda can't go to the
dance she can't...
Of course...
Whoever reported her must testify
before the Student Government.
I would sure hate to be in that
person's shoes, wouldn't you kids?
That's right.
Oh, Natalie.
Who are you dragging to the Prom?
A boy from my hometown.
I don't think you know him.
What college does he go to?
He works in a store.
Oh... really?
Will the girl who threw
Macaulay's essays in the lake...
On Thursday afternoon
report to Miss Macbeth.
The juniors are requested not
to practice tennis in the library.
This afternoon, Miss Dawn Bracket is
coming to talk to us all about charm.
In spite of the fact that you're
all very charming young ladies.
I'm sure we all of us have a great
deal to learn from Miss Bracket.
There will be a special meeting of
the Student Government in my office.
At 5 o'clock.
That's all.
Don't come in. I can't talk to anybody.
Well, Linda?
This is very shocking
news I hear about you.
Very shocking.
- Yes, Miss Brewster.
In fact, I really don't know
what to say to you, Linda.
No, Miss Brewster.
Magnolia Hall has never
been faced by such a...
Such misconduct.
Therefore I felt compelled
to send for your parents.
My parents?
Both of them?
I know they will be
grieved beyond measure.
Miss Brewster, please.
Please don't send for them.
I'll do anything if you just
won't make them come.
Linda. Breakfast.
You may enter, Betty. Fetch your books.
- Yes, ma'am.
I've called your parents.
They'll be here by 5 o'clock.
Miss Brewster, please.
Don't you see they... they...
Wouldn't just one of them do?
I'm sorry, Linda.
But the wages of sin are never easy.
And remember.
There's to be no retaliation against
the Monitor for reporting you.
Then it was Natalie?
After all, her position
here isn't an easy one.
You must continue to
be very nice to her.
Oh yes, Miss Brewster.
I'll be very nice.
I could kill that Natalie Freeman.
Linda, your honor...
- I don't care about my honor anymore.
Oh Betty.
Betty.
My Mother and Daddy aren't
even living in the same house.
They've separated.
I've tried and tried to keep it a
secret, hoping they'd make up.
Now they likely get the same
train and get here the same time.
And they won't speak to each other.
They won't even look at each other.
Well... maybe they'll get on alright.
No.
Mother once told me that...
When you used to love somebody...
And then you stop.
It hurts terribly when
you see them again.
Or even hear about them.
Now everybody will know.
It's all on account of
that Natalie Freeman.
I could just kill her.
So could I.
I've felt sorry for her
before, but now...
Where you going?
You aren't meant to leave the room.
I'll find Natalie and tell
her what I think of her.
You're in enough trouble already.
You stay here. I'll send her up.
Oh, Natalie.
Natalie. Linda's in her room.
She wants to talk to you.
She does? She'll speak to me?
- Yes, indeed.
Take these to class for me will you.
- Sure.
You'll miss the algebra class, Freeman.
Someone may report on you.
Oh Linda, I'm so glad you sent for me.
Come on in.
I suppose you think you're smart getting
up at the crack of dawn to spy on us.
Linda, I wasn't spying. Honest I wasn't.
I happened to be at the window...
- Happened?
You know what I should do to you?
Linda, let me explain please.
I never wanted to be the Monitor.
Alright, go ahead.
Blame it on your scholarship.
But it's because of the
scholarship that I...
Must you go around ruining
people's lives for them?
No scholarship in the world
would be worth that much to me.
I don't think you know much
about scholarships, Linda.
You never had to.
Well I know what's
decent and what isn't.
Oh Linda, please. Please believe me.
I'd rather be expelled myself.
Who's talking about being expelled? You
think it's the worst thing in the world?
Don't you see a person's private life
and feelings are more important than...
Than...
Linda, you mean you're less worried of
the expulsion than about something else?
None of your business what I mean.
- I'm responsible for doing this...
You certainly are.
Do you think I'd tell you anything?
I should say not.
Go on. Get out, get out!
I tell my personal affairs to my
friends, not to my enemies.
It gives me great pleasure.
And it's a great honor.
To introduce to you Miss Dawn Bracket.
Who will talk to all of us on the
important topic of... charm.
Miss Dawn Bracket.
Thank you. Thank you, Miss Brewster.
Thank you. Thank you, dear girls.
It's so lovely to be back
again in Magnolia Hall.
On the very afternoon
of the senior Prom.
But looking about me, I wonder.
Just how can I tell all of
these bright and happy faces.
These gracefully unfolding buds.
Anything they don't know about charm.
And yet, the problems of the flowers
are nothing compared to those...
Of the young lady trembling
on the threshold of society.
Charm can be acquired
by one... and by all.
Now, how shall we enter
the ballroom tonight?
In our lovely gowns and dainty slippers.
Shall we rush in headlong,
showing off our athletic skills?
No.
No. We will stand for a moment.
In the doorway.
So.
Give people a chance to admire us.
Now, advance slowly.
Body a little forward.
Eager, but restrained.
Smiling always, but not too much.
Just a quarter of a spontaneous smile.
Lean towards him.
Extend your hand.
You're giving yourself to
every person you meet.
Giving yourself.
But suppose the young man
doesn't pay any attention to you.
Do we swoon like our grandmothers?
No.
No.
Just let your handkerchief...
Your dainty, scented handkerchief.
Slip gracefully to the floor.
So.
But now again.
What if the young gentleman ignores it?
Do we stoop to pick it up ourselves?
No, indeed.
No.
Just let it lie there.
Look at him with your eyebrows raised.
A mixture of helplessness
and indignation.
So.
What do you want?
You're Linda's best friend, aren't you?
I certainly am.
I shouldn't even talk to you.
Betty, listen to me.
What is it that worries her?
I don't mean the fact that
she may be expelled.
You'd be worried too if your
parents were separated.
And you're the only one who knows it.
Then somebody calls them up here on
the 4:40 train and when they get here...
And they won't speak to each
other, everybody will know.
You'd rather die.
That's what it is.
The 4:40.
Can't somebody stop them?
- Oh.
Linda would kill me if
she knew I had told you.
Don't you dare breathe
it to a living soul.
I speak to you most
earnestly on this subject.
Because although you're all young.
And still buds.
You are about to flower
into the great social world.
And I want you to unfold your
petals with charm and grace.
So that your blooming may
bring you the greatest joy.
The greatest security.
The finest positions in society.
I thank you. Thank you.
I'm sure none of us will ever forget
Miss Bracket's wonderful eloquent talk.
And that we'll all be better
equipped to lead our lives...
As charming young ladies of the world.
Trembling on the threshold of society.
Stand in the doorway a moment. So.
To give people a chance to admire us.
Wait, Natalie. We'll walk
over to the library together.
Oh. I wasn't exactly
going to the library.
Have you forgotten we have
work to do? Come, dear.
Miss Macbeth, please.
I've never missed a day's work
and I've never asked before, but...
Oh could I, could I have
this one afternoon off?
Now Natalie, you can do it all later
or get your beauty nap or whatever.
But there is something.
Something awfully important.
I've got to get to the village...
Remember Natalie, your obligations
to the school are important too.
C128 fiction section. Shelf D.
Natalie.
Fiction section. Shelf D.
D144. Literature.
D144. Literature.
D145. Dear, dear.
How these girls mistreat books.
Milton.
All marked up with football scores.
And the back is absolutely broken.
Now, you're not like that
Natalie, I'm thankful to say.
Natalie.
Natalie.
Natalie!
Excuse me please, but whose car is that?
Mr Simpson, Miss. Mr Alfred Simpson.
Oh, thank you.
I understand you are Mr Simpson.
Why yes I am. Why?
Can I speak to you a minute?
It's about Linda.
She's alright, isn't she?
- Yes she is. It's just that...
You mean the bit of trouble
she got herself into?
Yes.
Won't you get in?
And sit down?
Thank you.
You see... they sent
for Mrs Simpson too.
Oh.
Then there's really no necessity.
She can certainly handle
the situation without me.
That's just what I thought.
See here, young lady.
You didn't run all the way
down here just to tell me this.
Well, I was going to meet the train.
Is Linda as anxious as all
that to get rid of her Dad?
Oh no, no. It's just that...
You see, she was afraid you and
Mrs Simpson might come together.
You see, Linda keeps it a secret.
Keeps what a secret?
- About you and Mrs Simpson. About...
About your being separated.
Oh.
Hardly anybody at school knows.
Only a few of her very dearest friends.
Linda... Linda would
just die if people knew.
I see.
And you are one of the
very few... who knows?
Then you must be one of
Linda's very best friends.
What's your name?
Natalie Freeman.
Natalie?
I'm glad you told me.
Please, Mr Simpson. Don't
you tell Linda I spoke to you.
She'd just be mad.
You see, she's very proud.
Alright, Natalie.
It will be our secret.
Natalie.
Do you think...?
Do you think Linda would like
it if I went back to the station...
Met Mrs Simpson...
Then brought her to the school?
Mr Simpson, could you?
I'm willing.
That would be wonderful.
Well, goodbye.
- Natalie.
You're a swell little girl.
And Linda is mighty lucky.
To have you for a friend.
Turn the car around, Ames.
We're going back.
There... it's happened.
What's happened, Armie?
- He's asked me.
Who are they and who asked you what?
He actually called me on the telephone.
No.
Yes.
And he's taking me to the dance.
Armie. That's lovely, dear.
I almost forgot.
For you, special delivery.
Oh?
From Michael.
I hope this doesn't mean he can't come.
Michael Hendragin, biochemist,
interested in insulin experimentation.
Is the winner of a Medical Society
award of one thousand dollars.
One thousand dollars?
To enable him to
continue his studies for...
One year... in Stockholm.
Stockholm?
It's all over now, Armie.
He's... going away.
It isn't forever.
It's been forever already.
We should have known it long ago.
Each time we postponed
our marriage but...
We were just burying it a little deeper.
It only takes a few
minutes from the station.
Oh Betty, I'm so scared I could die.
Maybe one of them missed the train.
Mother is the kind that
starts an hour ahead and...
Daddy always catches them
just as they're pulling out.
I could just kill that Natalie Freeman.
Linda, your father's car.
I can't even look.
Linda. Come here.
My mother.
Betty. Betty, they're talking.
Father has come, my mother's with him.
My mother and father are here.
Mother, Daddy.
Linda.
How are you, darling?
- I'm so happy to see you.
Miss Brewster.
- How do you do, Mrs Simpson?
And Mr Simpson.
I'm so glad you could come.
I trust you don't mind the
spectacle of our family sentiment?
We're so happy to see Linda.
Mrs Simpson and I were most
shocked to learn of Linda's trouble.
It doesn't sound like our
little girl, does it dear?
No indeed, dear.
Won't you sit down?
I confess, I was surprised too.
But unfortunately that does
not lighten the offense.
The Student Government.
Will have to consider the
matter most seriously.
And though Magnolia Hall has
never yet had an expulsion...
Expulsion...?
Linda.
You will wait for me in the
Student Government room.
Will you excuse me now?
- Certainly.
Miss Brewster.
- Yes?
Mrs Simpson and I wondered
what that building is.
Why, that's our library.
A beautiful building, isn't it, dear.
Yes, beautiful.
But for a school such as this,
isn't it rather small?
We're somewhat cramped.
But we hope one day...
You know, it would be a simple
matter to add another wing.
It might possibly be reserved
for a special subject.
History, perhaps.
- Or literature.
You know how fond
Linda is of literature.
For her graduation, why don't you...?
- That's a great idea.
We could express our gratitude for
everything the school's done for Linda.
But I'm afraid we're forgetting.
Oh yes, of course.
Well...
We're keeping you from your meeting.
Please forgive us.
- Oh.
The meeting.
Mr Simpson.
- Yes, Miss Brewster?
Nothing.
It wasn't important.
Sarah, you may begin.
The meeting will come to order.
As you all know,
this is a special meeting.
To decide the case of Linda Simpson.
Who has jeopardized
the reputation of our...
Madam Chairman, I object.
- Same here.
Please state facts without prejudice.
Interruptions are un-parliamentary.
Where is the witness?
- The only witness.
Is a Senior Monitor.
Please state your case, Monitor.
Oh... but it's not my case. I...
I just happened to...
Did you or didn't you...
See Linda come through the algebra
class window at 7 o'clock this morning?
Well.
I'm not sure.
Did you see Linda come in? Yes, or no?
Yes.
Linda Simpson.
Do you admit the charge?
I do.
Have you anything to
say in your defense?
Nothing.
Look, Linda.
You're supposed to be on trial.
And if you've anything to say...
She didn't have. Can't you see?
The meeting is open to discussion.
Madam Chairman.
This is likely the most serious offense
ever committed by a girl in our school.
I think, when we consider
Linda's punishment.
We must bear in mind that she must
be made an example of to everybody.
It seems to me nothing short of
expulsion can be fair to the rest of us.
We're not here to
consider the rest of us.
Madam Chairman.
Gwennie.
We're here to consider Linda.
With anybody else, staying out all
night would be pretty serious, but...
Everybody knows Linda's record.
Only last week, we all voted her the
most popular girl at Magnolia Hall.
Now you want to kick her
out just before graduating.
And ruin her whole life.
Popularity has nothing to do with it.
Grace and I like Linda
just as much as you do.
The fact remains that she
did something perfectly terrible.
And if we don't punish her
according to her just desserts...
What are we all here for?
What's the use of having
student government?
Absolutely... it's not a question of
what we think of Linda personally.
And it seems to me you're all acting as
if she committed murder or something.
After all, the punishment
should fit the crime.
And she didn't kill anybody
or steal anything, did she?
Do I hear a motion?
I move that Linda Simpson be
expelled from Magnolia Hall.
All those in favor,
raise their right hand.
All those opposed,
raise their right hand.
Well after all, Sudie, you have
to vote one way or another.
Why?
Well I mean...
Well, because you do, that's all.
Well honest, I don't know what to say.
Linda has always been so nice.
That's got nothing to do
with it at the moment.
Sudie has the floor.
If we have self-government,
we should have it.
I said Sudie had the floor.
And yet staying out all
night is serious, so... well...
Don't you think we can trust Linda?
Are you going to be swayed,
or do you stand for justice?
I suppose I ought to stand for justice.
So I guess I'll have to vote to...
Madam Chairman, may your
Dean have the floor?
Yes, Miss Brewster.
I mean... Miss Brewster has the floor.
As you all know, I'm very proud of our
school's success in self-government.
But we mustn't forget board members
have positions of great responsibility.
By your decision, you may actually
be altering the course of a human life.
The life of a little schoolmate.
Linda's crime is... serious indeed.
But I do suggest that in
rendering your decision...
You remember that the parents of a
young girl are her natural judges.
Linda Simpson stayed out all night.
True. But where was she?
She was not frequenting any
forbidden nightclubs as such.
She was safe on our own campus.
If we expel her, her indiscretion
is certain to appear...
Far blacker to the outside
world than we know it to be.
Do we do right to expose the fair name
of Magnolia Hall to misinterpretation?
I wonder.
I feel that if she were confined to the
campus for the balance of the term...
You would be meting
out a just punishment...
While saving our school's
name from outside attack.
Now, I want all girls to feel perfectly
free to make up their own minds.
Just as if I weren't in the room at all.
And...
Perhaps Madam Chairman
could resubmit the vote?
All those favoring the
expulsion of Linda Simpson...
Raise their right hand.
Opposing expulsion.
The meeting will please come to order.
The meeting will please...
I loved the way you answered.
- You were wonderful.
Alright. Meeting adjourned.
The wisdom and mercy of children.
Isn't it wonderful.
Oh... thank you.
Linda, are we still trading,
or would you rather...?
Oh don't be silly, of course we are.
And Grace and I are trading the night.
I thought she may hold it against you.
- Come on.
Oh Linda, you know how glad I feel.
I'm not the least bit
interested in how you feel.
Serves her right.
- Yes.
That was honestly all there was to it.
I just kind-of wanted to be
outdoors and see the stars.
We believe you, child.
But you must learn.
Now that you're growing up,
you need to be more discreet.
You were lucky this time.
What did you say that boy's name was?
Brown. Edgar Brown.
Brown... hmm.
What an unusual name.
Is he a nice boy, Linda?
- I think so.
That's the Engagement Bench
you're sitting on.
You're supposed to whisk a boy down here
the minute he gets ready to propose.
You're not meant to say
no if he asks you here.
Well.
I'm the only boy you sit on
this bench with, young lady.
For years and years and years.
This is one time I thoroughly
agree with you, Alfred.
Now.
What business is his father in?
- He makes matches or something.
And is Edgar going into the business?
Why, I should say not... he's a poet.
Oh...
Don't ask questions about my
friends and then laugh at them.
You haven't any right.
Gee, can't a girl have any privacy?
I mean, when a girl is grown
up and meant to graduate.
I love you both so much.
I think I have the swell-est
parents in the world.
Do you, darling?
We don't think our daughter
is so terrible either.
Tell me. Is there anything
you need? Money, clothes?
Oh you spoil her dreadfully, Alfred.
Now when I was her age...
- I spoiled you too.
What was she like, Daddy?
Well, she...
She was a great deal like you.
Sweet.
Troublesome.
What was he like, mother?
Oh.
Very much as he is today.
Very gay.
And very foolish.
Cigarette, Eleanor?
No thanks, Alfred. I...
I really must be getting
back to the city.
Must you, Mother?
I haven't seen you for so long.
Don't forget. You've to make yourself
beautiful for the lucky poet monkey.
Oh, Daddy.
Who's your friend?
She's no friend of mine.
She's the worst enemy I have.
She's the girl who told on me.
Really?
She seemed such a nice girl too.
She's awful. Everyone hates her.
Her only fun is telling on people.
Maybe she had to report you?
I'd never report her no
matter what she'd done.
Maybe she's sorry now?
Oh, Mother.
I wish you didn't have to go.
It was a lovely visit, Linda.
I'll never forget it.
Goodbye, mother.
Promise me something, Linda.
- What?
You've had a lucky day.
Now give that little girl a chance.
Give her just one break.
You know, I've a sneaking hunch
she's awfully sorry she told on you.
Daddy, you don't understand.
- Promise?
I don't want my little
girl to be a snob.
I'll try.
That's a good little girl.
And remember, don't stay
out all night again tonight.
I've a very busy day tomorrow.
And don't forget your old Daddy
completely for that Brown boy.
I'll try not to, Daddy.
You sure you'll always love
me no matter what I ever do?
I think we'll manage to, darling.
- Cross your hearts?
Hope to die.
You know, I think we did the
right thing today, Eleanor.
Haven't we been rather foolish lately?
I mean...
Hurting Linda by not
keeping up appearances.
Yes.
Yes, that's true.
Shall we...?
Shall we come up together
for her graduation?
I think she'd like that.
Can I drive you into town, Eleanor?
Alfred, I...
I don't see why not.
Gosh. I wish I'd gone on a diet.
Myra.
Remember... we're all little ladies.
Trembling on the threshold of society.
Simpson, please let me in.
Wait just a minute.
Flowers for both of you.
- Thanks, Sudie.
Hey, what's this?
Grab a shower, Sudie.
I only go with my cousin.
Beat it anyway.
We don't go with our cousins.
Gee, won't they go so beautifully
with my yellow dress.
Gee Lindy, a regular bridal bouquet.
Gardenias.
Lilies of the valley.
Whisper so gently,
my unrestrained pride.
Or wear this small
token of undying love.
My beautiful sweetheart.
And soon to be, bride.
Oh Betty, isn't that beautiful?
Here... comes... the bride.
Oh Betty.
I'd swear to always be best
friends... no matter what.
No matter what.
And I'll tell you everything.
Even if you do tell everybody else.
Want to have some fun? Come on.
Natalie, honey.
Some posies for you.
Thank you.
Myra.
Myra, there must be some
mistake. This is for Natalie White.
I'm so sorry Natalie, honey.
Why so it is.
Oh I'm awful stupid.
Will you excuse me, please?
Myra, there must be some mistake.
This is for Natalie White.
You have a lot of fun, don't you.
We've got to hurry, Linda.
It did seem kind of mean though.
Listen, your Sugar is here.
- Oh boy.
Who?
Shut up.
For me?
Hot-diggity, the boyfriend is here.
Natalie.
Flowers.
- That gag was pulled before.
Just as much of a surprise for me,
darling. Don't you want them?
They're gorgeous.
They're from Daddy. Listen to this.
'Please darling, as a special
favor wear these tonight'.
'Instead of the bunch your
hero has probably sent you'.
'To please your sentimental old father'.
What are you going to do?
I wished he hadn't asked
it as a special favor.
Simpson, Fleet.
- Your men are here.
He is here.
Let's welcome Tommy. Come on.
Wait a minute, Betty. Wait a minute.
I've got that funny feeling again.
This may be the last
time I see this room.
You must come up and get your bags.
- That doesn't count.
Oh Betty, I...
Your mascara will run.
Alright.
Alright. I'm ready.
But don't forget. As soon as the
band plays 'Goodnight Ladies'.
What am I going to do?
- That is more for a bride.
I have to wear Edgar's.
- Daddy will understand.
How about I give Daddy's
flowers to Natalie Freeman?
Natalie Freeman?
She probably has none of her own and...
After all, I had some good luck today
and maybe I can give her a break.
Come on, Linda. The boys are waiting.
Gee Linda, you look stunning.
And Betty, I love your dress.
Linda, you look gorgeous.
Do you think we all ought
to go down in a body?
No. Two at a time, I think.
No, that looks too grand.
You girls are so immature.
Gee, there's a crowd of them.
Don't you all just love men's voices?
My cousin has grown a mustache.
You silly girls. What are you afraid of?
Hurry up now, or I'll steal your beaux.
Gee Miss Laurel, you
certainly look stunning.
Stay by the side of the chaperone.
Come on, you cowards.
You go first, Betty.
- Oh no, you go first.
Don't push me.
Betty's been ready for hours
and now she's afraid.
You'd think you never had a date before.
Come on, Linda.
Oh Mama, pin a rose on me.
Go to bed, babies.
- Beat it, you juniors.
Hello Gwen, you look terrific.
How you been the few last months?
- As well as can be expected.
Tommy. Hiya.
- Hiya, Betty.
Well... fancy meeting you here.
Oh... I just thought I'd drop in.
Do you still feel the same way?
- Do you?
More than ever.
Not bad.
Hey, there's your girl.
It's not my fault, fellows. My mother
wouldn't have asked her first.
Has Mr Booth arrived
for Miss Freeman yet?
I have the minister all set.
Do you think he'll believe I'm eighteen?
I'd fix you for twenty tonight.
Edgar.
Tell me cousin Sudie, are you learning
stuff here? I can't tell to look at you.
We had a marvelous
lecture on charm today.
If you weren't my cousin
I'm meant to say:
'Didn't your mama win
a first at the dog show'?
I feel just like I'm dreaming
when I dance with you, Sugar.
I feel just like I'm dreaming
when I dance with you, Sugar.
Such lovely, innocent,
well-bred little girls.
Hello, my angel.
Hello. Why didn't you
walk right in, you silly?
Smack into a girl's school?
You look different.
It's your eyes.
Shouldn't you wear your glasses?
Michael. You know I only need
glasses for correcting papers.
Forgive me, Miss Laurel... darling.
How I wished I'd fallen in
love with a biology teacher.
I don't feel like any kind
of a teacher tonight.
Is it because of my news, sweetheart?
I don't want to talk about it, Michael.
- What, aren't you glad?
I am simply delighted.
We'll talk about it later, Michael.
Not now. Not now.
It's such a heavenly night.
Let's not talk about anything serious.
Let's not talk at all.
Darling.
Is the thought of
Stockholm so frightening?
Oh, Michael.
How can you ask me that when
it spells the end of everything.
But darling, it means our whole life.
It means we'll never be apart
again as long as we live.
It's the beginning of everything.
You didn't think I was going
to Stockholm without you?
Michael, darling.
Oh... Michael.
Why you fool, darling.
You utter idiot.
I want to shout.
I want to tell everybody.
I want to dance.
- I wonder how they dance in Sweden.
Oh Michael, let's never stop dancing
together for the rest of our lives.
Whoo... who sent for the plumber?
This is sure a high-class joint.
Even the plumbers wear tuxedos.
Hey plumber, can you fix
an old gin flask for me?
Sure.
I can fix practically anything, from...
Kiddie cars to college pups.
Hello, George.
What's the matter, girls?
Haven't you ever seen a man before?
I can't exactly blame them.
I can.
What's the matter, Natalie?
Nothing.
Not getting fed up with
the Debs, are you?
Look see, you look swell.
Who sent you the garden?
One of the girl's fathers.
Well I guess I should have
sent you some flowers but...
I got all tied up in town.
Just as long you're here.
That's all that matters.
It's kind of good to
see a friendly face, huh?
If you only knew.
Everybody in tails, huh?
Do you mind?
- No.
No. Why should I?
Our ancestors were never without them.
I tell you Tommy, we're
the only ones who know.
Myra. Have you heard about Linda?
- No. What?
Tonight? Honest?
- Yes.
Listen, Gwennie.
I just heard something terrific.
- What?
But don't tell.
What?
Hey, did you hear? About Lindy?
- No.
Oh. Isn't it romantic?
Did you hear the latest?
Linda is going to elope.
Who told you?
Look, there's Linda Simpson.
Nobody in this whole
room knows who we are.
I mean.
I mean nobody knows
that we're practically...
Mr and Mrs Brown.
They're going to run away in his car.
We'll all be asleep.
Let's stay up all night.
I want to see how she does it.
When I'm a senior I'm
going to be just like Linda.
Look, Mrs Brown.
Can't we go outside now?
You know, you promised you'd
say something tonight. Remember?
On that bench?
I want to go too,
but in just a little while.
This is my last school dance and...
I love every minute of it.
Happy now, Natalie?
I couldn't be happier.
Where did you get those flowers?
I said, where did you get those flowers?
Well what difference does it make?
- Because they're mine.
I was all ready to forgive
you for being a tattletale.
Anyone who steals a girl's
flowers from her room...
I didn't steal your flowers.
I don't want to talk to a common thief.
It's Natalie and Linda.
Look out. The Duchess.
Natalie Freeman.
Have you lost your senses?
Apologize this instant.
I'll not apologize.
- You will apologize.
Or you leave Magnolia Hall
tomorrow morning in disgrace.
I never heard of such a
thing. You, of all people.
Have you no gratitude?
Gratitude?
I'm supposed to be
grateful for everything.
I'm supposed to be grateful for being
allowed to study with such lovely girls.
And grateful for being alive.
I don't care if I'm kicked out.
I'm tired of saying 'thank you' and
'excuse me' every time I turn around.
And then on top of it, being given
all the dirty work to do just because...
Because I'm poor.
Natalie.
Go away.
Oh Nat, darling.
You don't mind me, do you?
I suppose you want to tell
me what you think of me.
Yes... I do.
Will you let me?
- Leave me alone and go away.
No... not until I've told you.
In the first place...
I think you were tops in
that ballroom scene.
Boy, did you tell that bunch of snobs.
And in the second place.
Well, I...
Oh Nat... I'm nuts about you.
Oh, George.
Darling, don't... don't.
It's so funny.
Why?
Me.
Me and all this.
Me and the rest of them.
I don't belong here, George.
Don't you see? I never did.
These girls have had it so easy.
They don't know what it's all about.
When life finally comes along.
It'll knock them over like
a bunch of ten-pins.
We're the kind of people who
go through trouble first and...
We get our happiness last.
Believe me, kitten.
We get it.
How do we know we get it?
I kinda think we got it now.
For four years, I...
Took their insults just
so I could graduate.
Then I spoil it all two
weeks before I finish.
Mom's been so proud of me.
So set on coming to commencement.
George.
Well... she could still come.
That is if you'd apologize like
The Duchess asked you to.
Do you think I should
after all that Linda did?
Natalie.
I don't give a hang if you apologize.
Why, for all I'm concerned you
can come home tomorrow and...
And we can be married. This week.
Oh George.
Oh if you'd said anything else,
we'd never have been married.
Of course, if you should
change your mind...
And decide you want to wait around
a while for the old full moon.
A couple of weeks more or less
won't make much difference.
George. Boo.
- Now, Natalie.
Don't you start an argument the
first minute we're engaged.
George.
Are we really engaged?
- Well...
We are as far as I'm concerned.
Then you've got to tell me you
love me on Engagement Bench.
Oh Natalie.
I thought you were too grown
up for that sort of business.
But George... it's tradition.
Okay then. It's no hardship for me.
Well.
Here we are.
It's a heavenly night, isn't it.
Hmm.
Well Linda, are we
just going to sit here?
Well, I...
You have to start it.
Alright... I...
I love you.
Go on.
And I...
Well...?
Honey, I...
I just can't say it.
Why not?
I don't know, Edgar. It...
Just won't come out.
Well...
Maybe it's because I...
I've never said it before.
Linda.
You don't have to say it.
That is... if you really mean it anyway.
I'll just take the words for granted.
Oh, Edgar.
You're sweet and... I love you.
You said it.
Well I might have known. I suppose
you've heard everything we've said.
We have better things
to do than listen to you.
Well go ahead and tell everybody
what you heard. Go ahead and tell.
You might at least have whistled
or coughed or something.
Wait a minute.
I think this is a private argument.
Oh yeah? You know how
it started, don't you?
If you had sent your girl some flowers
she needn't have stolen them.
Well now.
I've just been waiting
for this all evening.
Alright boys, come on now.
Don't be hasty.
Let's talk this thing over. Come on.
Linda, they're playing
'Goodnight Ladies'.
No.
George, that's it. Sock it to him.
Edgar... Edgar, it's the last dance.
Stop... stop.
Come on.
Give me your hand.
Boo, boo.
- Boo.
Are you alright? Are you hurt?
Are you alright?
I'll take care of him. I've a coat
in the car. You girls get the bags.
And hurry up if you don't
want me to catch cold.
Something tells me Freeman has
let herself in for a bit of hazing.
She took Linda's flowers.
What do you all think?
What can we do to her?
- We can't let her get away with this.
Why don't we treat her like the
plumber did Edgar? Into the lake.
Swell.
We'd better wait until
the plumber leaves.
Yes... we've got to get rid of our men.
Yes, sure.
You must remember exactly what everybody
says about my elopement and write to me.
The girls and Miss Laurel and
The Duchess... and everybody.
Oh gee, I wish I didn't have
soaking wet bridegroom.
You'd better hurry.
I'll take this to Tommy
and meet you at the car.
Okay.
Are you happy? I mean, about us?
- Oh terribly.
Are you happy about
leaving school tomorrow?
Yes.
I'll come to see you tomorrow.
I'll see you in church.
[ Singing: ]
"Natalie Freeman's body
gets a ducking in the lake."
"Natalie Freeman's body
gets a ducking in the lake."
"And we go marching on."
Get ready... get set.
Stop, stop!
Put her down, put her down I tell you.
Put her down I tell you!
Just let go of her, let go of her.
It's all my fault, not Natalie's.
It's... the night watchman.
Hurry. You want me to catch pneumonia?
- Edgar.
I can't elope tonight.
What do you mean?
- I've got to be here tomorrow.
Because of me, everybody thinks
that Natalie stole my flowers.
And if I'm not here they'll expel her.
Linda.
Do you mean you're
giving up marrying me...
Just on account of that?
- I won't give up marrying you.
I'm just giving up marrying you tonight.
Oh Edgar, don't you
see I've got to stay?
Oh this is the end.
- Edgar.
Edgar.
This isn't really the end, darling.
It's just the beginning.
We don't have to elope tonight.
We can wait a little.
Linda.
Don't you remember
what we said last night?
Magnolias live only for a little while.
And die.
But they'll bloom again next spring.
They'll bloom again a
million times for us.
Whoo.
Whoo!
Here they are.
When will you elope?
Beat it you kids or I'll
report every one of you.
I certainly don't know how they
found out. I only told one person.
Well Linda...
- It's alright.
Natalie.
You don't need to forgive me.
Just let me talk to you a minute.
You see, I...
I read my father's card to you.
Now I know he wanted us to be friends.
He wanted us both to wear his flowers.
So they would bring us together.
Natalie.
I didn't even know you knew my Daddy.
I just met him on the
road this afternoon.
We got to talking.
He and I and...
Your mother.
He must have liked you
terribly to send you flowers.
Natalie, could we...?
Could we be friends?
I don't blame you a bit.
I've been hateful to you.
We all have.
I'll go to The Duchess tomorrow
morning and tell her everything.
You needn't bother.
I wouldn't stay here if they got
down on their knees to me.
I know how you must feel.
Well.
Goodbye, Natalie.
I'm so sorry. I don't know what to do.
No-one in this whole school
ever cried for me before.
Linda.
I'll stay.
And if you want to, we can be friends.
If I want to?
Oh... so that's where you are.
Come on in, Betty.
We've got loads to tell
you, haven't we, Nat?
Who's that?
Stop... stop!
Come back here, come back here.
My gosh, that was old Laurelei.
Why, don't tell me she's eloping.
Well, who would elope with her?
She's twenty-nine.
..f-s..
out all night. Where have you been?
On the hockey field.
- What?
Listen, Betty... I've...
Oh but you won't believe...
- Linda, please. Double cross my heart.
I'm engaged.
- To Edgar?
Linda, how wonderful.
How does it feel? I mean,
how does it really feel?
To tell you the truth it...
It feels kind of funny.
How? Like before an algebra exam?
- Uhuh.
Betty, I...
If I tell you, it gets
all over the school.
Linda, I only tell the
really important things.
Well listen, then.
Edgar and I are going to elope.
Elope.
Edgar says it's the only civilized way.
But when, Linda?
- After the dance tonight.
After all, I can't miss
my own senior Prom.
Linda, nobody has ever proposed to me.
What do they do? Go down on their knees?
No, silly.
They kind of cough.
Then they tremble a little bit.
Then they take your hand
and... you're trembling.
And you had time to
make up a good answer?
I had a honey.
Had it since I was thirteen.
And when my time came,
I had to cough, so...
I just kind of nodded.
And Edgar put his arms around me.
And Betty, do you know what I did?
What?
I giggled. I couldn't help it.
Linda, do you have to say 'I love you'?
That was the hardest part.
It just wouldn't come.
So finally I promised I would
tonight on Engagement Bench.
And that's where it
really counts anyway.
Nobody's even ever tried to get
me on the Engagement Bench.
Well maybe Tommy will tonight.
Oh, he won't ask me.
He thinks I'm still a child.
Linda. I'm going to work it.
Don't you have to climb through
a window and everything?
No, no. Edgar says the modern
elopement is much more civilized.
Now, Betty. The minute the band
plays Goodnight Ladies...
You and I sneak up here and drop
my bag through the window.
Oh.
Oh Betty. The magnolias
were stunning last night.
The whole world was like
a bowl filled with their smell.
There were crickets, mockingbirds...
New grass.
Honestly, I don't think I saw or smelled
or really listened to anything before.
I'll never forget a
second of last night.
Never.
Edgar made a poem.
About magnolias not lasting long.
Or something.
Second bell. I'm starved.
Listen Betty, if you ever
tell one living soul...
Word of honor, hope to die.
Who is it?
- Natalie Freeman, Miss Laurel.
May I come in?
- Yes, dear. Come in.
No, wait. I look a fright. My goodness.
We always look a fright to the children.
Don't we, Natalie.
What is it, dear?
I have my Monitor's report, Miss Laurel.
- Oh yes.
Friday morning is always a low
point for both of us, isn't it Natalie.
Yes, Miss Laurel.
Well let's hear what dark and dreadful
deeds have been perpetrated this week.
Julie Patterson.
Absent from Chapel, Sunday.
Uhuh, I thought I didn't see her.
Ida Kenyon. Playing phonograph
after lights out on Tuesday.
Judith Walsh, late for
dinner on Wednesday.
But she wasn't so late, Miss Laurel.
They didn't even have
to re-warm her soup.
As long as they didn't have
to re-warm her soup...
I'm sure it will be alright.
Well.
I guess that's all.
It seems to me that more than that
has gone on in the past seven days.
Miss Laurel.
- Yes, Natalie?
I don't want to be Monitor any more.
You never did want to
be, did you Natalie?
But now I can't.
Listen to the child.
Why can't you, pray?
I'll do anything else
the school asks me to.
I'll work twice as long in the library.
I'll wait on tables. I'll do anything.
What has happened, child?
Nothing has happened, especially.
Only I can't keep on spying
on people anymore.
But... but you've been a
Monitor nearly four years now.
You're almost graduated.
As a scholarship student, you've
been given a free education, Natalie.
Now you won't complete
your part of the bargain.
Armie, please.
There must be some reason
at the back of all this.
Oh no, there is no real reason.
Who was it?
- Who was what?
Who did... whatever
you're talking about.
Nobody did... nobody did anything.
Nonsense. You've something
definite in mind. I know it.
Please Miss Armstrong, my book.
I thought as much.
Something has been erased here.
Now, Armie...
- What have you erased?
Oh, Armie. Let the girl alone.
If we don't get it out of her,
then Brewster will.
Now come, Natalie.
- No, no. I don't want to.
My dear, we all have to do
things we don't want to do.
If you've discovered
something such as a theft...
Nothing as bad as that.
Then what? There is something
behind the resignation.
I assure you we'll find out. We'll
cross-examine every girl in school.
But if we do that, we'll call
off the senior Prom tonight.
Oh you wouldn't.
My dear, it will go mighty hard with
you when all those girls realize that...
You were responsible for the...
- Alright. I'll tell you. I'll tell you.
One of the girls stayed out.
- How late?
All night.
- Who was it?
I can't tell you. I won't.
Very well.
There will be no dance tonight.
It was Linda Simpson.
Linda Simpson?
Are you sure, Natalie?
We must report this to
Dean Brewster immediately.
That will mean Linda's expulsion.
Well, we should feel very
proud or ourselves, Armie.
I was simply fulfilling my obligations.
We have a duty too, even
if you choose to ignore it.
I know.
Imagine her staying out all night.
Moonlight, too.
Where are you going?
I'm going to scold Linda Simpson.
Only I'm so jealous of
her I could spank her.
Poor Linda.
Poor Natalie.
Good morning, Miss Laurel.
A nice morning, isn't it.
It certainly is.
Come in. Come in whoever you are.
Why, Miss Laurel.
We thought you were one of the girls.
Thank you. I'm flattered.
Anyway, you're my favorite teacher.
Well I won't be when you
hear what I've come for.
My spelling, again?
Linda, what on earth do you
mean staying out all night?
How did you know?
- Now never mind that.
Will you...?
Have you told the Dean?
Dean Brewster will have to know.
I'll be expelled.
I won't graduate.
Where were you, child?
What were you doing all night?
I know you'll never believe
me Miss Laurel, but...
Edgar drove me straight back at twelve.
And then...
When I looked at the school it...
It looked exactly like a prison.
I just couldn't come in.
I don't expect you to believe me but...
I just couldn't.
Go on, child.
And then I found myself
daring Edgar to take me out.
Anywhere in the world, just so I would
not have to be shut up here in my room.
We went over to the hockey field.
Edgar recited poetry.
He's a poet, you know.
And... I don't know Miss Laurel.
I felt terribly happy.
Happier than I've ever been before.
Kind of grown-up and free.
Do you know what I mean?
I'm afraid I do, Linda.
Just the same there's a meeting of the
Student Government this afternoon.
With The Duchess?
- With Dean Brewster, yes.
In the meantime, you're to
remain here in your room.
I'll have meals sent up. You're on
probation. You mustn't speak to anyone.
Oh golly.
- Now remember, Linda.
You are on your honor.
Gee, what's so serious?
What did she say?
Was it about you being out all night?
I bet she's on probation.
Is that it, Linda?
Who told on you?
Beat it kids. You'll get her in trouble.
- What about you?
I'm her room-mate and best
girlfriend. Now come on. Out.
I'll tell you everything later.
- Betty.
What? I haven't told them
anything important, Linda.
Just that you were out all night.
I haven't told them you're eloping.
Are you still going to?
Are they going to expel you?
Will they let you go to the Prom?
Are they going to have a
Student Government meeting?
Gee, Lindy...
Breakfast.
Not a word, cross my heart, Linda.
You think it could be Natalie Freeman?
Gee, isn't it terrible.
Well gee, I absolutely promised
Linda I wouldn't tell.
But maybe if you promise...?
I can tell you a little.
She's positive Natalie reported her.
Didn't I tell you?
- And that's not the worst of it.
Furthermore.
Tell us, Betty.
I can't tell you why...
But it will be just awful if Linda
doesn't go to the dance tonight.
I mean, she and Edgar are in love.
Really in love.
- Rats. I don't believe in love.
All there is, is physical attraction.
Don't you believe in romance?
- Baloney.
We ought to fix that
Natalie Freeman, though.
She went right up and told old Laurelei.
While doing her duty in a kind of a way.
Duty? The little sneak.
She ought to be darn glad to
be allowed to associate with us.
Shush, The Duchess.
Good morning, Miss Brewster.
- Good morning, girls.
I really don't know what
to say, Miss Laurel.
One of our little girls. Out all night.
We've got to make an example of Linda.
I'm sure it was just an
innocent prank, Miss Brewster.
Innocent? Staying
out all night like a...
Like a heaven-knows-what.
What could... what could anybody
do all night on a hockey field?
I haven't the faintest
idea, Miss Brewster.
Good morning.
Our girls look just like
flowers in the spring.
They make me think of that lovely old
poem of Longfellow called 'Maidenhood'.
'Standing with reluctant feet'.
'Where the brook and river meet'.
Perhaps that's why we mustn't be
too hard on Linda, Miss Brewster.
She too is standing with reluctant feet.
Something must be done to make
her feel the error of her conduct.
The way of the transgressor,
my dear Miss Laurel.
Miss Brewster, must she be expelled?
What else is there to do?
Hey, Freeman. Did you hear about Linda?
Yes.
- She may be expelled.
Or perhaps you knew that already?
Well gee, being expelled
isn't so bad, but...
If Linda can't go to the
dance she can't...
Of course...
Whoever reported her must testify
before the Student Government.
I would sure hate to be in that
person's shoes, wouldn't you kids?
That's right.
Oh, Natalie.
Who are you dragging to the Prom?
A boy from my hometown.
I don't think you know him.
What college does he go to?
He works in a store.
Oh... really?
Will the girl who threw
Macaulay's essays in the lake...
On Thursday afternoon
report to Miss Macbeth.
The juniors are requested not
to practice tennis in the library.
This afternoon, Miss Dawn Bracket is
coming to talk to us all about charm.
In spite of the fact that you're
all very charming young ladies.
I'm sure we all of us have a great
deal to learn from Miss Bracket.
There will be a special meeting of
the Student Government in my office.
At 5 o'clock.
That's all.
Don't come in. I can't talk to anybody.
Well, Linda?
This is very shocking
news I hear about you.
Very shocking.
- Yes, Miss Brewster.
In fact, I really don't know
what to say to you, Linda.
No, Miss Brewster.
Magnolia Hall has never
been faced by such a...
Such misconduct.
Therefore I felt compelled
to send for your parents.
My parents?
Both of them?
I know they will be
grieved beyond measure.
Miss Brewster, please.
Please don't send for them.
I'll do anything if you just
won't make them come.
Linda. Breakfast.
You may enter, Betty. Fetch your books.
- Yes, ma'am.
I've called your parents.
They'll be here by 5 o'clock.
Miss Brewster, please.
Don't you see they... they...
Wouldn't just one of them do?
I'm sorry, Linda.
But the wages of sin are never easy.
And remember.
There's to be no retaliation against
the Monitor for reporting you.
Then it was Natalie?
After all, her position
here isn't an easy one.
You must continue to
be very nice to her.
Oh yes, Miss Brewster.
I'll be very nice.
I could kill that Natalie Freeman.
Linda, your honor...
- I don't care about my honor anymore.
Oh Betty.
Betty.
My Mother and Daddy aren't
even living in the same house.
They've separated.
I've tried and tried to keep it a
secret, hoping they'd make up.
Now they likely get the same
train and get here the same time.
And they won't speak to each other.
They won't even look at each other.
Well... maybe they'll get on alright.
No.
Mother once told me that...
When you used to love somebody...
And then you stop.
It hurts terribly when
you see them again.
Or even hear about them.
Now everybody will know.
It's all on account of
that Natalie Freeman.
I could just kill her.
So could I.
I've felt sorry for her
before, but now...
Where you going?
You aren't meant to leave the room.
I'll find Natalie and tell
her what I think of her.
You're in enough trouble already.
You stay here. I'll send her up.
Oh, Natalie.
Natalie. Linda's in her room.
She wants to talk to you.
She does? She'll speak to me?
- Yes, indeed.
Take these to class for me will you.
- Sure.
You'll miss the algebra class, Freeman.
Someone may report on you.
Oh Linda, I'm so glad you sent for me.
Come on in.
I suppose you think you're smart getting
up at the crack of dawn to spy on us.
Linda, I wasn't spying. Honest I wasn't.
I happened to be at the window...
- Happened?
You know what I should do to you?
Linda, let me explain please.
I never wanted to be the Monitor.
Alright, go ahead.
Blame it on your scholarship.
But it's because of the
scholarship that I...
Must you go around ruining
people's lives for them?
No scholarship in the world
would be worth that much to me.
I don't think you know much
about scholarships, Linda.
You never had to.
Well I know what's
decent and what isn't.
Oh Linda, please. Please believe me.
I'd rather be expelled myself.
Who's talking about being expelled? You
think it's the worst thing in the world?
Don't you see a person's private life
and feelings are more important than...
Than...
Linda, you mean you're less worried of
the expulsion than about something else?
None of your business what I mean.
- I'm responsible for doing this...
You certainly are.
Do you think I'd tell you anything?
I should say not.
Go on. Get out, get out!
I tell my personal affairs to my
friends, not to my enemies.
It gives me great pleasure.
And it's a great honor.
To introduce to you Miss Dawn Bracket.
Who will talk to all of us on the
important topic of... charm.
Miss Dawn Bracket.
Thank you. Thank you, Miss Brewster.
Thank you. Thank you, dear girls.
It's so lovely to be back
again in Magnolia Hall.
On the very afternoon
of the senior Prom.
But looking about me, I wonder.
Just how can I tell all of
these bright and happy faces.
These gracefully unfolding buds.
Anything they don't know about charm.
And yet, the problems of the flowers
are nothing compared to those...
Of the young lady trembling
on the threshold of society.
Charm can be acquired
by one... and by all.
Now, how shall we enter
the ballroom tonight?
In our lovely gowns and dainty slippers.
Shall we rush in headlong,
showing off our athletic skills?
No.
No. We will stand for a moment.
In the doorway.
So.
Give people a chance to admire us.
Now, advance slowly.
Body a little forward.
Eager, but restrained.
Smiling always, but not too much.
Just a quarter of a spontaneous smile.
Lean towards him.
Extend your hand.
You're giving yourself to
every person you meet.
Giving yourself.
But suppose the young man
doesn't pay any attention to you.
Do we swoon like our grandmothers?
No.
No.
Just let your handkerchief...
Your dainty, scented handkerchief.
Slip gracefully to the floor.
So.
But now again.
What if the young gentleman ignores it?
Do we stoop to pick it up ourselves?
No, indeed.
No.
Just let it lie there.
Look at him with your eyebrows raised.
A mixture of helplessness
and indignation.
So.
What do you want?
You're Linda's best friend, aren't you?
I certainly am.
I shouldn't even talk to you.
Betty, listen to me.
What is it that worries her?
I don't mean the fact that
she may be expelled.
You'd be worried too if your
parents were separated.
And you're the only one who knows it.
Then somebody calls them up here on
the 4:40 train and when they get here...
And they won't speak to each
other, everybody will know.
You'd rather die.
That's what it is.
The 4:40.
Can't somebody stop them?
- Oh.
Linda would kill me if
she knew I had told you.
Don't you dare breathe
it to a living soul.
I speak to you most
earnestly on this subject.
Because although you're all young.
And still buds.
You are about to flower
into the great social world.
And I want you to unfold your
petals with charm and grace.
So that your blooming may
bring you the greatest joy.
The greatest security.
The finest positions in society.
I thank you. Thank you.
I'm sure none of us will ever forget
Miss Bracket's wonderful eloquent talk.
And that we'll all be better
equipped to lead our lives...
As charming young ladies of the world.
Trembling on the threshold of society.
Stand in the doorway a moment. So.
To give people a chance to admire us.
Wait, Natalie. We'll walk
over to the library together.
Oh. I wasn't exactly
going to the library.
Have you forgotten we have
work to do? Come, dear.
Miss Macbeth, please.
I've never missed a day's work
and I've never asked before, but...
Oh could I, could I have
this one afternoon off?
Now Natalie, you can do it all later
or get your beauty nap or whatever.
But there is something.
Something awfully important.
I've got to get to the village...
Remember Natalie, your obligations
to the school are important too.
C128 fiction section. Shelf D.
Natalie.
Fiction section. Shelf D.
D144. Literature.
D144. Literature.
D145. Dear, dear.
How these girls mistreat books.
Milton.
All marked up with football scores.
And the back is absolutely broken.
Now, you're not like that
Natalie, I'm thankful to say.
Natalie.
Natalie.
Natalie!
Excuse me please, but whose car is that?
Mr Simpson, Miss. Mr Alfred Simpson.
Oh, thank you.
I understand you are Mr Simpson.
Why yes I am. Why?
Can I speak to you a minute?
It's about Linda.
She's alright, isn't she?
- Yes she is. It's just that...
You mean the bit of trouble
she got herself into?
Yes.
Won't you get in?
And sit down?
Thank you.
You see... they sent
for Mrs Simpson too.
Oh.
Then there's really no necessity.
She can certainly handle
the situation without me.
That's just what I thought.
See here, young lady.
You didn't run all the way
down here just to tell me this.
Well, I was going to meet the train.
Is Linda as anxious as all
that to get rid of her Dad?
Oh no, no. It's just that...
You see, she was afraid you and
Mrs Simpson might come together.
You see, Linda keeps it a secret.
Keeps what a secret?
- About you and Mrs Simpson. About...
About your being separated.
Oh.
Hardly anybody at school knows.
Only a few of her very dearest friends.
Linda... Linda would
just die if people knew.
I see.
And you are one of the
very few... who knows?
Then you must be one of
Linda's very best friends.
What's your name?
Natalie Freeman.
Natalie?
I'm glad you told me.
Please, Mr Simpson. Don't
you tell Linda I spoke to you.
She'd just be mad.
You see, she's very proud.
Alright, Natalie.
It will be our secret.
Natalie.
Do you think...?
Do you think Linda would like
it if I went back to the station...
Met Mrs Simpson...
Then brought her to the school?
Mr Simpson, could you?
I'm willing.
That would be wonderful.
Well, goodbye.
- Natalie.
You're a swell little girl.
And Linda is mighty lucky.
To have you for a friend.
Turn the car around, Ames.
We're going back.
There... it's happened.
What's happened, Armie?
- He's asked me.
Who are they and who asked you what?
He actually called me on the telephone.
No.
Yes.
And he's taking me to the dance.
Armie. That's lovely, dear.
I almost forgot.
For you, special delivery.
Oh?
From Michael.
I hope this doesn't mean he can't come.
Michael Hendragin, biochemist,
interested in insulin experimentation.
Is the winner of a Medical Society
award of one thousand dollars.
One thousand dollars?
To enable him to
continue his studies for...
One year... in Stockholm.
Stockholm?
It's all over now, Armie.
He's... going away.
It isn't forever.
It's been forever already.
We should have known it long ago.
Each time we postponed
our marriage but...
We were just burying it a little deeper.
It only takes a few
minutes from the station.
Oh Betty, I'm so scared I could die.
Maybe one of them missed the train.
Mother is the kind that
starts an hour ahead and...
Daddy always catches them
just as they're pulling out.
I could just kill that Natalie Freeman.
Linda, your father's car.
I can't even look.
Linda. Come here.
My mother.
Betty. Betty, they're talking.
Father has come, my mother's with him.
My mother and father are here.
Mother, Daddy.
Linda.
How are you, darling?
- I'm so happy to see you.
Miss Brewster.
- How do you do, Mrs Simpson?
And Mr Simpson.
I'm so glad you could come.
I trust you don't mind the
spectacle of our family sentiment?
We're so happy to see Linda.
Mrs Simpson and I were most
shocked to learn of Linda's trouble.
It doesn't sound like our
little girl, does it dear?
No indeed, dear.
Won't you sit down?
I confess, I was surprised too.
But unfortunately that does
not lighten the offense.
The Student Government.
Will have to consider the
matter most seriously.
And though Magnolia Hall has
never yet had an expulsion...
Expulsion...?
Linda.
You will wait for me in the
Student Government room.
Will you excuse me now?
- Certainly.
Miss Brewster.
- Yes?
Mrs Simpson and I wondered
what that building is.
Why, that's our library.
A beautiful building, isn't it, dear.
Yes, beautiful.
But for a school such as this,
isn't it rather small?
We're somewhat cramped.
But we hope one day...
You know, it would be a simple
matter to add another wing.
It might possibly be reserved
for a special subject.
History, perhaps.
- Or literature.
You know how fond
Linda is of literature.
For her graduation, why don't you...?
- That's a great idea.
We could express our gratitude for
everything the school's done for Linda.
But I'm afraid we're forgetting.
Oh yes, of course.
Well...
We're keeping you from your meeting.
Please forgive us.
- Oh.
The meeting.
Mr Simpson.
- Yes, Miss Brewster?
Nothing.
It wasn't important.
Sarah, you may begin.
The meeting will come to order.
As you all know,
this is a special meeting.
To decide the case of Linda Simpson.
Who has jeopardized
the reputation of our...
Madam Chairman, I object.
- Same here.
Please state facts without prejudice.
Interruptions are un-parliamentary.
Where is the witness?
- The only witness.
Is a Senior Monitor.
Please state your case, Monitor.
Oh... but it's not my case. I...
I just happened to...
Did you or didn't you...
See Linda come through the algebra
class window at 7 o'clock this morning?
Well.
I'm not sure.
Did you see Linda come in? Yes, or no?
Yes.
Linda Simpson.
Do you admit the charge?
I do.
Have you anything to
say in your defense?
Nothing.
Look, Linda.
You're supposed to be on trial.
And if you've anything to say...
She didn't have. Can't you see?
The meeting is open to discussion.
Madam Chairman.
This is likely the most serious offense
ever committed by a girl in our school.
I think, when we consider
Linda's punishment.
We must bear in mind that she must
be made an example of to everybody.
It seems to me nothing short of
expulsion can be fair to the rest of us.
We're not here to
consider the rest of us.
Madam Chairman.
Gwennie.
We're here to consider Linda.
With anybody else, staying out all
night would be pretty serious, but...
Everybody knows Linda's record.
Only last week, we all voted her the
most popular girl at Magnolia Hall.
Now you want to kick her
out just before graduating.
And ruin her whole life.
Popularity has nothing to do with it.
Grace and I like Linda
just as much as you do.
The fact remains that she
did something perfectly terrible.
And if we don't punish her
according to her just desserts...
What are we all here for?
What's the use of having
student government?
Absolutely... it's not a question of
what we think of Linda personally.
And it seems to me you're all acting as
if she committed murder or something.
After all, the punishment
should fit the crime.
And she didn't kill anybody
or steal anything, did she?
Do I hear a motion?
I move that Linda Simpson be
expelled from Magnolia Hall.
All those in favor,
raise their right hand.
All those opposed,
raise their right hand.
Well after all, Sudie, you have
to vote one way or another.
Why?
Well I mean...
Well, because you do, that's all.
Well honest, I don't know what to say.
Linda has always been so nice.
That's got nothing to do
with it at the moment.
Sudie has the floor.
If we have self-government,
we should have it.
I said Sudie had the floor.
And yet staying out all
night is serious, so... well...
Don't you think we can trust Linda?
Are you going to be swayed,
or do you stand for justice?
I suppose I ought to stand for justice.
So I guess I'll have to vote to...
Madam Chairman, may your
Dean have the floor?
Yes, Miss Brewster.
I mean... Miss Brewster has the floor.
As you all know, I'm very proud of our
school's success in self-government.
But we mustn't forget board members
have positions of great responsibility.
By your decision, you may actually
be altering the course of a human life.
The life of a little schoolmate.
Linda's crime is... serious indeed.
But I do suggest that in
rendering your decision...
You remember that the parents of a
young girl are her natural judges.
Linda Simpson stayed out all night.
True. But where was she?
She was not frequenting any
forbidden nightclubs as such.
She was safe on our own campus.
If we expel her, her indiscretion
is certain to appear...
Far blacker to the outside
world than we know it to be.
Do we do right to expose the fair name
of Magnolia Hall to misinterpretation?
I wonder.
I feel that if she were confined to the
campus for the balance of the term...
You would be meting
out a just punishment...
While saving our school's
name from outside attack.
Now, I want all girls to feel perfectly
free to make up their own minds.
Just as if I weren't in the room at all.
And...
Perhaps Madam Chairman
could resubmit the vote?
All those favoring the
expulsion of Linda Simpson...
Raise their right hand.
Opposing expulsion.
The meeting will please come to order.
The meeting will please...
I loved the way you answered.
- You were wonderful.
Alright. Meeting adjourned.
The wisdom and mercy of children.
Isn't it wonderful.
Oh... thank you.
Linda, are we still trading,
or would you rather...?
Oh don't be silly, of course we are.
And Grace and I are trading the night.
I thought she may hold it against you.
- Come on.
Oh Linda, you know how glad I feel.
I'm not the least bit
interested in how you feel.
Serves her right.
- Yes.
That was honestly all there was to it.
I just kind-of wanted to be
outdoors and see the stars.
We believe you, child.
But you must learn.
Now that you're growing up,
you need to be more discreet.
You were lucky this time.
What did you say that boy's name was?
Brown. Edgar Brown.
Brown... hmm.
What an unusual name.
Is he a nice boy, Linda?
- I think so.
That's the Engagement Bench
you're sitting on.
You're supposed to whisk a boy down here
the minute he gets ready to propose.
You're not meant to say
no if he asks you here.
Well.
I'm the only boy you sit on
this bench with, young lady.
For years and years and years.
This is one time I thoroughly
agree with you, Alfred.
Now.
What business is his father in?
- He makes matches or something.
And is Edgar going into the business?
Why, I should say not... he's a poet.
Oh...
Don't ask questions about my
friends and then laugh at them.
You haven't any right.
Gee, can't a girl have any privacy?
I mean, when a girl is grown
up and meant to graduate.
I love you both so much.
I think I have the swell-est
parents in the world.
Do you, darling?
We don't think our daughter
is so terrible either.
Tell me. Is there anything
you need? Money, clothes?
Oh you spoil her dreadfully, Alfred.
Now when I was her age...
- I spoiled you too.
What was she like, Daddy?
Well, she...
She was a great deal like you.
Sweet.
Troublesome.
What was he like, mother?
Oh.
Very much as he is today.
Very gay.
And very foolish.
Cigarette, Eleanor?
No thanks, Alfred. I...
I really must be getting
back to the city.
Must you, Mother?
I haven't seen you for so long.
Don't forget. You've to make yourself
beautiful for the lucky poet monkey.
Oh, Daddy.
Who's your friend?
She's no friend of mine.
She's the worst enemy I have.
She's the girl who told on me.
Really?
She seemed such a nice girl too.
She's awful. Everyone hates her.
Her only fun is telling on people.
Maybe she had to report you?
I'd never report her no
matter what she'd done.
Maybe she's sorry now?
Oh, Mother.
I wish you didn't have to go.
It was a lovely visit, Linda.
I'll never forget it.
Goodbye, mother.
Promise me something, Linda.
- What?
You've had a lucky day.
Now give that little girl a chance.
Give her just one break.
You know, I've a sneaking hunch
she's awfully sorry she told on you.
Daddy, you don't understand.
- Promise?
I don't want my little
girl to be a snob.
I'll try.
That's a good little girl.
And remember, don't stay
out all night again tonight.
I've a very busy day tomorrow.
And don't forget your old Daddy
completely for that Brown boy.
I'll try not to, Daddy.
You sure you'll always love
me no matter what I ever do?
I think we'll manage to, darling.
- Cross your hearts?
Hope to die.
You know, I think we did the
right thing today, Eleanor.
Haven't we been rather foolish lately?
I mean...
Hurting Linda by not
keeping up appearances.
Yes.
Yes, that's true.
Shall we...?
Shall we come up together
for her graduation?
I think she'd like that.
Can I drive you into town, Eleanor?
Alfred, I...
I don't see why not.
Gosh. I wish I'd gone on a diet.
Myra.
Remember... we're all little ladies.
Trembling on the threshold of society.
Simpson, please let me in.
Wait just a minute.
Flowers for both of you.
- Thanks, Sudie.
Hey, what's this?
Grab a shower, Sudie.
I only go with my cousin.
Beat it anyway.
We don't go with our cousins.
Gee, won't they go so beautifully
with my yellow dress.
Gee Lindy, a regular bridal bouquet.
Gardenias.
Lilies of the valley.
Whisper so gently,
my unrestrained pride.
Or wear this small
token of undying love.
My beautiful sweetheart.
And soon to be, bride.
Oh Betty, isn't that beautiful?
Here... comes... the bride.
Oh Betty.
I'd swear to always be best
friends... no matter what.
No matter what.
And I'll tell you everything.
Even if you do tell everybody else.
Want to have some fun? Come on.
Natalie, honey.
Some posies for you.
Thank you.
Myra.
Myra, there must be some
mistake. This is for Natalie White.
I'm so sorry Natalie, honey.
Why so it is.
Oh I'm awful stupid.
Will you excuse me, please?
Myra, there must be some mistake.
This is for Natalie White.
You have a lot of fun, don't you.
We've got to hurry, Linda.
It did seem kind of mean though.
Listen, your Sugar is here.
- Oh boy.
Who?
Shut up.
For me?
Hot-diggity, the boyfriend is here.
Natalie.
Flowers.
- That gag was pulled before.
Just as much of a surprise for me,
darling. Don't you want them?
They're gorgeous.
They're from Daddy. Listen to this.
'Please darling, as a special
favor wear these tonight'.
'Instead of the bunch your
hero has probably sent you'.
'To please your sentimental old father'.
What are you going to do?
I wished he hadn't asked
it as a special favor.
Simpson, Fleet.
- Your men are here.
He is here.
Let's welcome Tommy. Come on.
Wait a minute, Betty. Wait a minute.
I've got that funny feeling again.
This may be the last
time I see this room.
You must come up and get your bags.
- That doesn't count.
Oh Betty, I...
Your mascara will run.
Alright.
Alright. I'm ready.
But don't forget. As soon as the
band plays 'Goodnight Ladies'.
What am I going to do?
- That is more for a bride.
I have to wear Edgar's.
- Daddy will understand.
How about I give Daddy's
flowers to Natalie Freeman?
Natalie Freeman?
She probably has none of her own and...
After all, I had some good luck today
and maybe I can give her a break.
Come on, Linda. The boys are waiting.
Gee Linda, you look stunning.
And Betty, I love your dress.
Linda, you look gorgeous.
Do you think we all ought
to go down in a body?
No. Two at a time, I think.
No, that looks too grand.
You girls are so immature.
Gee, there's a crowd of them.
Don't you all just love men's voices?
My cousin has grown a mustache.
You silly girls. What are you afraid of?
Hurry up now, or I'll steal your beaux.
Gee Miss Laurel, you
certainly look stunning.
Stay by the side of the chaperone.
Come on, you cowards.
You go first, Betty.
- Oh no, you go first.
Don't push me.
Betty's been ready for hours
and now she's afraid.
You'd think you never had a date before.
Come on, Linda.
Oh Mama, pin a rose on me.
Go to bed, babies.
- Beat it, you juniors.
Hello Gwen, you look terrific.
How you been the few last months?
- As well as can be expected.
Tommy. Hiya.
- Hiya, Betty.
Well... fancy meeting you here.
Oh... I just thought I'd drop in.
Do you still feel the same way?
- Do you?
More than ever.
Not bad.
Hey, there's your girl.
It's not my fault, fellows. My mother
wouldn't have asked her first.
Has Mr Booth arrived
for Miss Freeman yet?
I have the minister all set.
Do you think he'll believe I'm eighteen?
I'd fix you for twenty tonight.
Edgar.
Tell me cousin Sudie, are you learning
stuff here? I can't tell to look at you.
We had a marvelous
lecture on charm today.
If you weren't my cousin
I'm meant to say:
'Didn't your mama win
a first at the dog show'?
I feel just like I'm dreaming
when I dance with you, Sugar.
I feel just like I'm dreaming
when I dance with you, Sugar.
Such lovely, innocent,
well-bred little girls.
Hello, my angel.
Hello. Why didn't you
walk right in, you silly?
Smack into a girl's school?
You look different.
It's your eyes.
Shouldn't you wear your glasses?
Michael. You know I only need
glasses for correcting papers.
Forgive me, Miss Laurel... darling.
How I wished I'd fallen in
love with a biology teacher.
I don't feel like any kind
of a teacher tonight.
Is it because of my news, sweetheart?
I don't want to talk about it, Michael.
- What, aren't you glad?
I am simply delighted.
We'll talk about it later, Michael.
Not now. Not now.
It's such a heavenly night.
Let's not talk about anything serious.
Let's not talk at all.
Darling.
Is the thought of
Stockholm so frightening?
Oh, Michael.
How can you ask me that when
it spells the end of everything.
But darling, it means our whole life.
It means we'll never be apart
again as long as we live.
It's the beginning of everything.
You didn't think I was going
to Stockholm without you?
Michael, darling.
Oh... Michael.
Why you fool, darling.
You utter idiot.
I want to shout.
I want to tell everybody.
I want to dance.
- I wonder how they dance in Sweden.
Oh Michael, let's never stop dancing
together for the rest of our lives.
Whoo... who sent for the plumber?
This is sure a high-class joint.
Even the plumbers wear tuxedos.
Hey plumber, can you fix
an old gin flask for me?
Sure.
I can fix practically anything, from...
Kiddie cars to college pups.
Hello, George.
What's the matter, girls?
Haven't you ever seen a man before?
I can't exactly blame them.
I can.
What's the matter, Natalie?
Nothing.
Not getting fed up with
the Debs, are you?
Look see, you look swell.
Who sent you the garden?
One of the girl's fathers.
Well I guess I should have
sent you some flowers but...
I got all tied up in town.
Just as long you're here.
That's all that matters.
It's kind of good to
see a friendly face, huh?
If you only knew.
Everybody in tails, huh?
Do you mind?
- No.
No. Why should I?
Our ancestors were never without them.
I tell you Tommy, we're
the only ones who know.
Myra. Have you heard about Linda?
- No. What?
Tonight? Honest?
- Yes.
Listen, Gwennie.
I just heard something terrific.
- What?
But don't tell.
What?
Hey, did you hear? About Lindy?
- No.
Oh. Isn't it romantic?
Did you hear the latest?
Linda is going to elope.
Who told you?
Look, there's Linda Simpson.
Nobody in this whole
room knows who we are.
I mean.
I mean nobody knows
that we're practically...
Mr and Mrs Brown.
They're going to run away in his car.
We'll all be asleep.
Let's stay up all night.
I want to see how she does it.
When I'm a senior I'm
going to be just like Linda.
Look, Mrs Brown.
Can't we go outside now?
You know, you promised you'd
say something tonight. Remember?
On that bench?
I want to go too,
but in just a little while.
This is my last school dance and...
I love every minute of it.
Happy now, Natalie?
I couldn't be happier.
Where did you get those flowers?
I said, where did you get those flowers?
Well what difference does it make?
- Because they're mine.
I was all ready to forgive
you for being a tattletale.
Anyone who steals a girl's
flowers from her room...
I didn't steal your flowers.
I don't want to talk to a common thief.
It's Natalie and Linda.
Look out. The Duchess.
Natalie Freeman.
Have you lost your senses?
Apologize this instant.
I'll not apologize.
- You will apologize.
Or you leave Magnolia Hall
tomorrow morning in disgrace.
I never heard of such a
thing. You, of all people.
Have you no gratitude?
Gratitude?
I'm supposed to be
grateful for everything.
I'm supposed to be grateful for being
allowed to study with such lovely girls.
And grateful for being alive.
I don't care if I'm kicked out.
I'm tired of saying 'thank you' and
'excuse me' every time I turn around.
And then on top of it, being given
all the dirty work to do just because...
Because I'm poor.
Natalie.
Go away.
Oh Nat, darling.
You don't mind me, do you?
I suppose you want to tell
me what you think of me.
Yes... I do.
Will you let me?
- Leave me alone and go away.
No... not until I've told you.
In the first place...
I think you were tops in
that ballroom scene.
Boy, did you tell that bunch of snobs.
And in the second place.
Well, I...
Oh Nat... I'm nuts about you.
Oh, George.
Darling, don't... don't.
It's so funny.
Why?
Me.
Me and all this.
Me and the rest of them.
I don't belong here, George.
Don't you see? I never did.
These girls have had it so easy.
They don't know what it's all about.
When life finally comes along.
It'll knock them over like
a bunch of ten-pins.
We're the kind of people who
go through trouble first and...
We get our happiness last.
Believe me, kitten.
We get it.
How do we know we get it?
I kinda think we got it now.
For four years, I...
Took their insults just
so I could graduate.
Then I spoil it all two
weeks before I finish.
Mom's been so proud of me.
So set on coming to commencement.
George.
Well... she could still come.
That is if you'd apologize like
The Duchess asked you to.
Do you think I should
after all that Linda did?
Natalie.
I don't give a hang if you apologize.
Why, for all I'm concerned you
can come home tomorrow and...
And we can be married. This week.
Oh George.
Oh if you'd said anything else,
we'd never have been married.
Of course, if you should
change your mind...
And decide you want to wait around
a while for the old full moon.
A couple of weeks more or less
won't make much difference.
George. Boo.
- Now, Natalie.
Don't you start an argument the
first minute we're engaged.
George.
Are we really engaged?
- Well...
We are as far as I'm concerned.
Then you've got to tell me you
love me on Engagement Bench.
Oh Natalie.
I thought you were too grown
up for that sort of business.
But George... it's tradition.
Okay then. It's no hardship for me.
Well.
Here we are.
It's a heavenly night, isn't it.
Hmm.
Well Linda, are we
just going to sit here?
Well, I...
You have to start it.
Alright... I...
I love you.
Go on.
And I...
Well...?
Honey, I...
I just can't say it.
Why not?
I don't know, Edgar. It...
Just won't come out.
Well...
Maybe it's because I...
I've never said it before.
Linda.
You don't have to say it.
That is... if you really mean it anyway.
I'll just take the words for granted.
Oh, Edgar.
You're sweet and... I love you.
You said it.
Well I might have known. I suppose
you've heard everything we've said.
We have better things
to do than listen to you.
Well go ahead and tell everybody
what you heard. Go ahead and tell.
You might at least have whistled
or coughed or something.
Wait a minute.
I think this is a private argument.
Oh yeah? You know how
it started, don't you?
If you had sent your girl some flowers
she needn't have stolen them.
Well now.
I've just been waiting
for this all evening.
Alright boys, come on now.
Don't be hasty.
Let's talk this thing over. Come on.
Linda, they're playing
'Goodnight Ladies'.
No.
George, that's it. Sock it to him.
Edgar... Edgar, it's the last dance.
Stop... stop.
Come on.
Give me your hand.
Boo, boo.
- Boo.
Are you alright? Are you hurt?
Are you alright?
I'll take care of him. I've a coat
in the car. You girls get the bags.
And hurry up if you don't
want me to catch cold.
Something tells me Freeman has
let herself in for a bit of hazing.
She took Linda's flowers.
What do you all think?
What can we do to her?
- We can't let her get away with this.
Why don't we treat her like the
plumber did Edgar? Into the lake.
Swell.
We'd better wait until
the plumber leaves.
Yes... we've got to get rid of our men.
Yes, sure.
You must remember exactly what everybody
says about my elopement and write to me.
The girls and Miss Laurel and
The Duchess... and everybody.
Oh gee, I wish I didn't have
soaking wet bridegroom.
You'd better hurry.
I'll take this to Tommy
and meet you at the car.
Okay.
Are you happy? I mean, about us?
- Oh terribly.
Are you happy about
leaving school tomorrow?
Yes.
I'll come to see you tomorrow.
I'll see you in church.
[ Singing: ]
"Natalie Freeman's body
gets a ducking in the lake."
"Natalie Freeman's body
gets a ducking in the lake."
"And we go marching on."
Get ready... get set.
Stop, stop!
Put her down, put her down I tell you.
Put her down I tell you!
Just let go of her, let go of her.
It's all my fault, not Natalie's.
It's... the night watchman.
Hurry. You want me to catch pneumonia?
- Edgar.
I can't elope tonight.
What do you mean?
- I've got to be here tomorrow.
Because of me, everybody thinks
that Natalie stole my flowers.
And if I'm not here they'll expel her.
Linda.
Do you mean you're
giving up marrying me...
Just on account of that?
- I won't give up marrying you.
I'm just giving up marrying you tonight.
Oh Edgar, don't you
see I've got to stay?
Oh this is the end.
- Edgar.
Edgar.
This isn't really the end, darling.
It's just the beginning.
We don't have to elope tonight.
We can wait a little.
Linda.
Don't you remember
what we said last night?
Magnolias live only for a little while.
And die.
But they'll bloom again next spring.
They'll bloom again a
million times for us.
Whoo.
Whoo!
Here they are.
When will you elope?
Beat it you kids or I'll
report every one of you.
I certainly don't know how they
found out. I only told one person.
Well Linda...
- It's alright.
Natalie.
You don't need to forgive me.
Just let me talk to you a minute.
You see, I...
I read my father's card to you.
Now I know he wanted us to be friends.
He wanted us both to wear his flowers.
So they would bring us together.
Natalie.
I didn't even know you knew my Daddy.
I just met him on the
road this afternoon.
We got to talking.
He and I and...
Your mother.
He must have liked you
terribly to send you flowers.
Natalie, could we...?
Could we be friends?
I don't blame you a bit.
I've been hateful to you.
We all have.
I'll go to The Duchess tomorrow
morning and tell her everything.
You needn't bother.
I wouldn't stay here if they got
down on their knees to me.
I know how you must feel.
Well.
Goodbye, Natalie.
I'm so sorry. I don't know what to do.
No-one in this whole school
ever cried for me before.
Linda.
I'll stay.
And if you want to, we can be friends.
If I want to?
Oh... so that's where you are.
Come on in, Betty.
We've got loads to tell
you, haven't we, Nat?
Who's that?
Stop... stop!
Come back here, come back here.
My gosh, that was old Laurelei.
Why, don't tell me she's eloping.
Well, who would elope with her?
She's twenty-nine.
..f-s..