Public Works (2015) Movie Script
1
Look here... for the last two years
I've been refused entry here. And why?
Am I not... a real man?
Am I not a suitable party?
You're too good for me?
Now what?
Then just play something.
- Yes, music.
Stop it.
I don't hear anything.
Sager, phase don't.
Play.
Please don't.
Dad, dad...
Let go of me.
Mama!
Mama!
Construction of the Central Station
A new era, gentlemen.
Progress waits for no man.
So much has been
accomplished in this city:
The Dutch Crystal Palace, Amstel Hotel,
both by Outshoorn.
Vondel Park, American Hotel,
the Rijksmuseum by Pierre Cuypers.
He is also the spiritual father
of a building that's soon to be completed:
Central Station.
Just imagine: a constant stream
of travellers, thousands a day.
It's obvious that there's only one location
possible for our hotel.
And that's here.
And the people who live there?
- We buy them out.
They have no idea of the true value.
No idea.
Poor devils.
Easy.
Sit down here, children.
Let's sit down here.
Come on.
I do apologise.
I don't know what got into them.
Take off your cap.
Never mind. I'm fond of children.
My son Theo is approaching
an awkward age.
You'll find out one day.
All the same he's a source
of great joy to me.
He wants to be an architect.
- A costly training.
Certainly. But my prospects are good.
Chris!
- Walter!
Good to see you.
- Dear cousin...
Theo, welcome.
My cousin from Amsterdam.
Good day.
This way.
Bye, sir.
- Goodbye, madam.
It's not far, you know.
But the station is in the wrong place.
It's the same in Amsterdam.
It's a colossal mistake
to build the Central Station there.
Ultimately only one thing matters:
the location.
You wrote about your house.
How's that going?
How long since I had that letter, Theo?
From Victoria Hotel, asking me
to sell my house to them.
My house!
They want to build a hotel there.
I wasn't the only one.
My neighbour had that letter, too.
Maybe all my neighbours.
All because of the new station.
Can you imagine?
The land our houses stood on
was now worth a fortune.
We knew from the start
what our strategy should be.
Carstens's house was worth as much
as mine, and I would represent him.
I'd hoped Henkenhaf,
the big boss, would come...
...but we got his assistant, one Ebert.
An excellent location for a grand hotel.
The American hotel on Leidseplein
was a major mistake.
Before long we'll be opponents
in the negotiations...
...but that's a compliment.
- Thank you.
We will open the hotel
as soon as the station is finished.
That will take time
but for us time's short.
Not for us. We are living here quite
contentedly. Aren't we, Carstens?
Yes...
Our offer will please you.
- Your offer?
Our asking price is more important.
- If you wish.
The most important thing
is the sum we agree on in the end.
I beg your pardon. Could that differ
from our asking price?
You can't force us to depart from it.
TAXATION
20,000?
You paid my neighbours 20,000?
Excuse me, but the confidentiality
I observe here and now...
...forbids me to mention...
Ah, there you are, Theo.
Come here a minute.
I'll introduce my son Theo.
Theo, this is Mr Ebert.
Hello.
Theo, look at this drawing.
What a magnificent design.
No, I grant you that much.
Stay with us, Theo. So you can learn
how businessmen conduct negotiations.
We saw that the Chamber of Commerce
calls you a cabinetmaker.
I'm a violin builder. Do you see
any cabinets here? No, only violins.
Tell me your price.
Price? There is no price.
I'll hear your offer first.
- With pleasure.
But allow me to dispense
with the haggling.
The taxation has given us
enough indication.
Your offer? Please.
Twenw.
Fifty.
It was his arrogance that did it.
He's been back several times since
but he refuses to meet our demands.
Anijs...
Ah, Mayor, and Dr Amshoff...
Dr Amshoff tells me that, remarkably
enough, you have no university degree.
He can't be serious,
after all those years.
The doctor must be joking.
Or is he?
When I started, it was not necessary.
- But now it's compulsory.
Our friend Anijs had time on his side.
Our former dispensing chemist
did have a degree.
Yes, he certainly did.
You've just been lucky, Mr Anijs.
A beautiful wife
and a flourishing chemist's shop.
If you'll excuse us...
THE TWELVE APOSTLES
Do you still make... cabinets as well?
Don't you trust my expertise?
- On the contrary.
An imitation Stradivarius.
Weak varnish. Poor inclination.
No signature. A winter job.
Beg pardon?
In a cold winter
they either make clogs or...
It's from Bohemia, about 100 years old.
ls the owner a patient?
Yes, they work in the fields.
Peat diggers.
Bennemin...
Can I help you?
- Come with me, darling.
You once told me you had a cousin...
- Alexander, yes.
Lives in America.
Excuse me, I thought it was Amsterdam.
Ah yes, my other cousin. Walter Vedder.
He buys and sells violins
in Amsterdam.
Could he sell this one, do you think?
They forced me to play this...
For generations in my family.
When a Jew cries, others are laughing.
Isn't that the saying?
Laugh if you wish.
- Pet...
You've got to leave.
What do you mean?
- Get out of the peat district.
About my violin...
Could you ask your cousin to...
Yes.
I'll write to my cousin.
It's terribly sad.
Well, is it worth anything?
Will you sell it for him?
And what will it fetch, do you think?
A hundred guilders. But for that sum
you could buy a new instrument.
A hundred guilders? But for people in
those circumstances that's marvellous.
Could you scribble something on a piece
of paper, in the way of a receipt?
So I can give him something tangible.
- I will.
So we have a wealthy dinner guest.
You should have seen him when he saw
such bargaining by a mere craftsman.
You must be proud of your father.
There's no way around it:
If they want their hotel they have to pay.
Wonderful, hear that Christiaan?
Were there further negotiations?
He's been round several times
but we got no closer together.
And I see no reason to lower my price.
Fifty thousand guilders...
When Theo studies architecture
he needs to travel...
...books, college fees, the student life.
Enjoyed your meal, Theo?
Some of the money I'll invest, of course.
Perhaps in oil, the product of the future.
And modern steam boats.
Peat is on the way out. In Amsterdam
nobody burns peat. I don't.
That violin man of yours
is in the wrong place here.
People prefer oil from America.
Talking about America:
He's written me a letter.
Who... Alexander?
Yes. Well...
He calls himself Al now.
He still speaks Dutch but with an effort.
He'll be in Amsterdam soon.
In America the streets
are paved with gold, people say.
Is Ala rich man?
Not sure. His father was a vicar.
He went to try his luck.
He didn't go there to make money...
...but more because of social
compassion.
The same goes for me, really.
In my job, social compassion is much
more important than the right diploma.
You need love
for your fellow human beings.
And you do love them,
more than our doctor...
...who you're regularly at odds with.
But do be careful. The peat diggers
now look upon you as their doctor.
And that's ludicrous.
- Ludicrous?
I pity them and that's why I go
and give them medicine.
And I'll go again tomorrow whatever
you and doctor Amshoff may think.
Nobody is concerned
about the peat diggers. Nobody.
What about Amshoff?
- He just cashes his pay cheque.
If I didn't help them
they'd have no medical care.
But you have no medical qualifications.
You could be taken to court.
Amshoff...
His idle talk.
- My father got on with him.
Yes, your father did.
Have you thought about...
It's a new era now.
There are medical tests.
I can't see the point.
We must take it as it comes.
Let's... once more...
Out of the way!
That's me, Vedder.
Alexander, I didn't expect you here...
Is that your shop?
- Yes. Come.
How you've changed.
That's a consignment
from my cousin Chris in Hoogeveen.
Remember him?
Cousin Christiaan.
I've got that photograph as well.
- Do you?
I'm glad father had several copies made.
How much do you want for it?
Are you serious?
It's not a very special one.
I've always wanted to have a violin.
I'll look it over first
and when you come back again...
...we'll discuss the price and you decide.
What are your plans in Holland?
- Seeing relatives, and some business.
Where are you staying?
I'm an American
so I stay in the American Hotel.
That's why I'm here. I want to ask you
if you know people who...
Excuse me, neighbour, I just came in
to ask how the negotiations are doing.
Their new offer is due any day now.
But did you see our neighbours?
Idiots.
They sold for far too little.
OK, I've got appointments.
I'll be back soon.
- Yes, I'll see you then.
We're sitting on a goldmine.
They're in a hurry.
- But my wife is ill. It's her leg.
We have to have a decision soon.
-It will be all right, trust me.
Fifty?
- Fifty.
His neighbour, Carstens...
He negotiates on his behalf.
They're the last two.
How will you solve that?
- There's time enough.
He must know our offer is reasonable.
I've contracted the demolishers.
They need to start soon.
What kind of man is it?
A cabinetmaker who calls himself
a violin builder. Widower. One son.
A special lad.
What?
- No, nothing.
Theo, wait a minute.
A registration form?
- For the Academy, to register.
My finals aren't till next year.
- There's no harm in applying early.
Dad...
- What's up? Aren't you glad?
Ebert is sure to pay up.
- No, Dad...
I want to go into business.
- What?
I take no interest in architecture.
No... I don't understand you.
We've always walked through town
discussing town planning, the canals...
No dad, you do the talking and I listen.
Such are our discussions.
I don't want to go to university.
Perhaps further north
there's some money to be earned.
Most of the peat's gone.
What's the matter?
Sieger won't acknowledge it.
Why not? It's his duty.
Juniper extract?
An abortion?
- Please.
No... Nobody is above life and death,
dear girl.
But...with Juniper...
How's my Little Pet?
Fine.
- Good.
Here, this will calm you down.
Open your mouth, please.
Come on then, it does help.
What did Bennemin come in for?
He came for some Theriac.
Christiaan...
Yes?
Pretending to be the doctor
in the peat field.
I beg you not to do it again.
You're my darling.
I don't want you to get into trouble.
Promise me you won't do it again.
When I see Amshoff, I'll tell him to go
and see people in the peat fields.
All right?
Christiaan?
Promise?
All right then.
Neighbour, neighbour...
How can they?
I don't... They sold out to them.
Are they pulling down our houses too?
Where's this man Ebert?
- He said he'd be here today or tomorrow.
You'll be a rich man, believe me.
- Really, really?
Really, really, it's true.
I'll go and tell my wife. She's still poorly
but the good news may cheer her up.
What are they doing?
Building a skyscraper?
Hi Alexander.
Want a drink?
- No, my boat is ready to sail.
What's your job, really?
I'm in immigration, or emigration,
depending on your point of view.
I'm an agent who helps people
to go to America.
We lend them the money for the fare...
...and they pay it back with interest
when they're there.
I'm a broker.
I deal in people.
Helping people is great.
But here...
Changing your mind about a drink?
Or a piece of mackerel?
No, I came about the violin.
Did you look at it?
Sorry, I've been so busy.
- No problem.
I'm taking it. A hundred dollars,
is that enough?
Yes.
Farewell, cousin.
Pet?
What's the matter?
- We need the doctor.
The doctor? He doesn't live here.
Come and get warm.
Dear Pet, for once and for all,
my husband is not a...
You must come.
- What's the matter?
My sister's poorly. You must come.
Christiaan...
You promised.
Please...
Amshoff, go and fetch Amshoff.
- I'm only going to take a look.
No, you're not. I forbid you to go.
Go, go!
Christiaan... stay here.
I've been to see you five times
and you're refusing to negotiate.
Because you think...
- But I'll offer you twenty-five thousand.
Five more than
what your neighbours got.
Mr Vedder, please accept this.
Also for your old neighbour?
And move out today, I beg you.
First all the pipes are removed,
then we start demolishing.
In two weeks' time we start building.
Building?
There will be fences all around
and workmen will be in and out.
Cranes, pile drivers...
And it will go on all night.
The hotel already exists.
It's stored in dozens of warehouses
in the Netherlands and abroad.
This is a new era, Mr Vedder.
The parts only need to be transported
here by ship or train...
...to be assembled.
Are you hearing me?
I made you a higher offer.
Do not reject it.
Mr Vedder...
Theo, come in. You'll get soaked.
Where are you all the time?
My son...
What's wrong with him?
Your son is a magnificent young man,
had you noticed?
What you mean?
Mr Vedder, my offer...
Fifty.
This bill of exchange for a few thousand.
Any bank will cash it.
See it as an advance and move house.
Please, there's no time left.
Who says I am going to sell? Send
Henkenhaf and I will deal with him.
Mr Henkenhaf has no time for you,
I'm sorry.
And?
- I don't see anything yet.
Doctor...
It's abnormal to be so swollen.
It's got to come out.
Please doctor, do something.
- Please.
A knife. A really sharp knife.
It's coming.
It's coming.
Thank you.
I only had to do a puncture.
To release the pressure.
That evening...
...when you had to play the violin.
Sieger wasn't the only one, was he?
Pet?
I closed my eyes.
The whole time.
Dr Amshoff, what can I do for you?
- Where is the baby?
The baby?
- Bennemin's daughter...
She wanted Juniper extract.
From you, too, I bet.
She can't have got it,
but what happened to the pregnancy?
A miscarriage most likely?
May the heavens prove you right.
I'm going to investigate. If it turns out
that a full-term baby was born...
...for which you had the audacity
to ascertain death...
...I'll report you
to a disciplinary tribunal.
Martha...
Martha?
Martha.
My father was a chemist here
for 44 years but he never stuck...
...a potato peeler into a pregnant girl.
- Stop it.
Not a potato peeler
but a circumcision scalpel.
And what will Amshoff do?
Get them to testify to what you've done.
Then what happens to us?
Walter!
Chris!
Yes.
Yes, I'm sorry I'm late.
I meant to meet you.
Walter.
- Chris.
Look at the detour
everybody has to make.
Over here, not a bridge to be seen.
And there four bridges close together.
Before we get things done here...
Public works.
I see, it's the same everywhere.
Yes, but come along.
He spent weeks in the American Hotel.
So he's not short of cash.
My father knew about wines.
- Yes?
We always served the best wines.
The elite of the town would come:
the Mayor, the Vicar, Dr Amshoff.
Even people all the way from Groningen.
- Really?
My father was an authority
on health matters.
And a good father for his children.
Did Al come to Holland just to see you?
No, he's an agent who helps people
move to America.
He lends the money
which they repay with interest...
...when they get work there.
He is represented by a kind of solicitor.
Now you can give them
the hundred dollars.
They can make good use of it
and I don't need to benefit.
Are they still living in the peat fields?
Yes...
- Terrible.
The misery...
Why doesn't the Government step in?
Is there no social compassion
for those people?
Is the sale of your house concluded?
Yes. Well, nearly.
Wonderful.
- Yes.
Which Academy is he going to?
What do you mean?
- Theo. The architecture course.
We're still thinking.
I plan to invest the whole sum.
In what?
I haven't decided yet. Oil maybe.
Or shares in the Victoria Hotel.
That would be a joke.
- No...
I keep all my options open.
Those at the top
think we'll swallow anything.
The differences in the world. The poor,
and then the rich who wallow in wealth.
I used to build cabinets but that was
a non-earner. Now I make violins.
I often feel I'm not taken seriously.
Such an agent invests in people really,
doesn't he?
He lends them money, they go to
America and pay him back with interest.
We could, on the basis
of our social compassion...
You mean...
What about the interest?
- You decide the interest in the contract.
Yes?
You just mentioned the differences
between the rich and the poor.
Those who think they're placed above us
on the basis of their titles...
...and the ordinary, hard-working citizens.
It's a social investment
but lucrative at the same time.
Yes.
Cousin...
A kind of public works,
but now they're yours.
You're a financial backer
and a benefactor.
You help them escape from their misery
and you get your interest.
A social investment.
- The new era.
The new era.
Little Pet!
- Go tell everybody to come.
Come here.
Everybody's got to come.
Come, the doctor has arrived!
Fresh air. That's important.
Bennemin, could you step forward,
please?
Is it true that, some time ago,
you gave your violin to me...
...so that my cousin could sell it?
And when he promised to undertake the
consignation, did he give you a receipt?
Get the receipt.
Thank you, Bennemin.
I return the receipt to you, dear cousin.
And this, good Bennemin, is for you.
A hundred dollars.
It was sold for three times
the asking price...
...to an American.
All you peat diggers must be wondering...
...why we are here,
what our business here could be.
Well, you too are offered the opportunity
to enter it into a contract.
Whereby you would be signing a form
which in away is an IOU...
...but which is not valid once the money
has been repaid. Right, cousin?
Who would like to go to America?
I'm absolutely serious.
Who would like to go to America?
Away from these...
...inhuman conditions
and build up a new life...
...in the land of unlimited possibilities?
Who wants to go to America?
A hundred families?
- Slightly less.
Often a father, a mother and three
children. There's a high death rate.
Five per family, a hundred per person.
An investment of 45,000 guilders.
Plus costs.
Look, this is a specimen
of the contracts we use.
For each family you will be required
to deposit five hundred guilders...
...in the account of the agent...
...who promises to find accommodation
and employment for the family...
...and to repay the deposit made by you
in instalments...
...with interest as stipulated
in the contract.
I'll prepare the documents for you.
For us it's a routine business.
I've arranged hundreds of them,
also for your American cousin.
Of course, I understand.
You should eat, it's good for you.
Please.
- Carstens...
Good day, Mrs Carstens.
The demolition, the dust and noise
have made it all much worse.
The doctors will cure you, I'm sure.
Really, your house will soon be sold.
Trust me. We've got them over a barrel.
I presume that Mr Ebert
has been sacked.
And that Henkenhaf himself will appear.
They have no choice.
They've got simply no choice.
I'm moving in with relatives
near here.
And your shop?
- What shop?
I have zero customers now.
I will badly need that money soon.
Parcel for you.
Learn English Fast
GRAND OPENING
You've applied for a passport?
- Yes.
Congratulations.
- Thank you.
Applied for a passport?
What a lot of noise!
Doesn't it trouble you?
- No, not really.
I am g0ir19---
...to America.
On behalf of all Amsterdamers
I wish to thank Dr Cuypers...
...for his unique creation.
This magnificent building
will be the entrance gate to our city.
I hereby solemnly declare
the Amsterdam Central Station opened!
STUBBORN BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Mr Vedder, mail for you.
Why did you ring the bell?
Why did you ring?
I wasn't sure you still lived here.
Dear Mr Vedder, I'm letting you know
I have opened a bank account...
...so that you can transfer the money
for the voyage.
Now that you mention it...
Anijs...
Yes, Mr Mayor.
I'm reminded of how your predecessor,
her father, used to entertain.
Such pleasant occasions.
I like to think back on them.
Perhaps we can...
- But why I came to see you...
Do you know why so many peat diggers
are applying for passports?
And why are they selling everything:
beds, tables, chairs?
I think they are going to work elsewhere.
The Peel district in Germany?
The Belgian mines?
There is hardly any peat left.
- But there's still enough to do.
We have contracts to honour.
Factories have to keep going.
You must see that I cannot allow
the working population to disappear.
Aren't you going too far?
I'm warning you as a good friend.
Bye, Martha.
Dear cousin and good friend Walter.
How the Americans have kept us waiting.
When I'd heard from Al,
I went to Assen station...
...and arranged that two cattle wagons
are attached to the first train that day.
Our emigrants will arrive at Amsterdam
Station in the morning of 20 April...
...and travel on from there
on a steamer.
They can't wait for the moment
they can finally step on board.
They've even started packing.
How much did you sell your house for
in the end?
You lucky dog.
Warm regards, also from Martha.
Thank you, on behalf of the peat diggers.
Your cousin Chris.
Morning.
- Sir?
I've come to see Mr Henkenhaf.
Do you have an appointment?
- No, but he expects me.
What's your name?
- Vedder. Walter Vedder.
Texelsche Kaai number 46,
and he'll know.
I am quite sure he'd love to see me.
Mr Henkenhaf?
There's a Mr Vedder to see you.
Vedder?
- From Texelsche Kaai.
He was sure you'd like to see him.
N u m ber 46.
- Forty-six?
Thank you, let him wait.
Will he be long? I'm pressed for time.
I don't know.
Pardon?
- I don't know, sir.
I've waited...
- Mr Henkenhaf is a busy man.
I know he wants to see me.
He can't do without me.
Mr Vedder?
I hardly recognised you. How are you?
You don't look very well.
I'm here for Mr Henkenhaf, not you.
I only deal directly with him now.
- Mr Vedder...
I'm sorry I have to take it higher up
but you're keeping me on a string.
But you will find that the press
is on my side.
One day the press will see
we did the right thing.
Fine, excellent.
Madam, the house in question
is number 46, and 47 as well.
I demand to see him.
It's too late.
We're building around you.
I am serious, Mr Vedder. We've been
considering this option for months.
Your house will stay yours
but incorporated in the hotel.
Your business with Mr Henkenhaf
is over.
Around me?
Around me?
Think about your own health,
not about Mr Henkenhaf.
That's impossible.
- He is a renowned architect.
After the fire in the Kurhaus...
At least buy my neighbour's house.
His wife's death has cost him much.
Twenty-five, that was your offer,
wasn't it? Fine.
Agreed.
- I have to leave.
No, let's talk some more and negotiate.
There are people on their way...
...and nothing's been paid.
People?
- People.
Peat diggers. It was all arranged through
my cousin, my other cousin.
He's also involved.
Peat diggers.
Mr Vedder...
Friends... peat diggers.
You've been through hard times.
The years of peat are numbered.
The future lies elsewhere.
Your future lies elsewhere.
To be exact:
in the United States of America.
From now on you're no longer
peat diggers, but colonists.
Entrepreneurs, in fact.
You've taken out a mortgage
on your future wage...
...by financing the journey.
Before long you will all be free people...
...in a free country.
I wish you a safe journey
and I thank you for your trust...
...also on behalf of my cousin
Walter Vedder...
...without whom this would not
have been possible.
Ubi bene ibi patria.
Go with God.
Thank you for everything, Doctor.
- I'm glad I could help.
Will you think of me sometimes?
Look what I've got for you.
This is for all of you, on the way.
It's against sea-sickness.
Thank you.
We've also got something for you.
For us you will always be the doctor.
Time for you to go.
Dad, the bees...
We thought of everything
except the beehive.
The population will die if no one...
- I'll see to them.
Won't I? I have to be around there
anyway. I'll go now.
Thank you, doctor.
Bye, Little Pet.
- May all go well for you.
Travel safely.
Bye bye, Pet.
- Travel safely.
CITY HALL
Mr Vedder?
Are you there?
May I ask, are you Mr Vedder's son?
Yes.
- Is he still there? You haven't moved?
Soon.
We collected cents and half cents from
everybody. Will you give this to him?
He will always have a place
in our hearts.
What were they here for?
Who were those people?
- Where have you been?
I haven't seen you in two weeks.
When do we go for a walk
in town again, the two of us?
And this time I will listen to you.
Theo...
When are you coming back home?
You call this home?
I've come to fetch my things. That's all.
BOARDING
Where has everybody gone?
So there's the grave.
That means an autopsy and a tribunal.
What's he doing this time?
Eternal Thanks
Good day, madam.
Ladies...
What can I do for you?
You want to book a room?
Good morning.
Did we sleep well?
Very well.
Here's your mail.
Shall I read it?
Medical disciplinary tribunal.
You have been indicted
on a charge of burying a child...
...without death certificate
or autopsy report.
Gross negligence and practicing
medicine unqualified.
Christiaan...
Martha?
I'd expected you earlier, so I could...
Dr Amshoff came round and told me...
...about what he saw you do...
...and the disciplinary tribunal.
Martha, the peat diggers...
- That's all you can think of.
You can't bear to be examined, you say.
And now you...
Are you in pain?
Theriac helps. And morphine.
I've moved in with Louise in Groningen.
What?
- For good.
I've got some clothes for you here.
May you get well.
- But Martha, I did everything...
Opening Victoria Hotel.
From the Station we see Henkenhaf and
Ebert's magnificent building looming up.
And the traveller thinks this is Paris
or Vienna...
...were it not that the lovely facade
is marred...
...by two small, delapidated houses.
A few house owners driven by greed...
...resisted the hotel company
with regrettable results...
"especially city spoiler Mr Vedder
of number 46.
CITY SPOILER
Excuse me, may I ask: Does the
gentleman still live in that small house?
That man asked me the same.
Thank you.
I can't believe it.
He didn't pay up. Never.
I so often reminded him. I've even
visited him. I've taken legal steps.
But what about the emigrants?
All I know is that they went on board.
I haven't heard since.
Does my cousin know anything?
- He seems to be hiding.
My other cousin, cousin Al.
Bankrupt.
On the run for the law.
Present whereabouts unknown.
Do you have more cousins?
But the Bennemins? The peat diggers?
Did they get to America?
They had no right
to step on American soil.
Their fare had not been paid
so there are several possibilities.
They sent them back on the first ship.
The Americans don't care where to.
Russia maybe, or Italy.
Or they were interned.
But I've heard
of less fainthearted captains...
What do you mean?
- They were stowaways after all.
And at sea they have very few rights
as you perhaps know.
What do you imPW?
Plenty of captains
just put them overboard.
All those mouths need feeding.
And when they haven't been paid...
Walter!
Walter, it's me, your cousin.
Open up.
Your Royal Highness, and the most
honourable King's Commissioner...
Walter?
It's me, your cousin.
I cordially welcome you
to this festive opening ceremony...
Vedder?
Vedder?
You are...
You are Mr Henkenhaf.
Good day, Mr Vedder.
Are you still angry with me?
Not at all.
- No?
Wouldn't you like to come in?
That's him! The city spoiler.
Up there.
-It's Vedder!
Why do you want me to come in?
- Aren't we neighbours?
Walter?
What happened?
- I couldn't help it.
Why didn't you sell?
I wanted to, but Mr Henkenhaf
and the negotiations...
Mr Vedder? There's a reception
downstairs, everybody is there.
Even the King phoned.
Won't you have a glass of champagne?
Walter...
Jump!
'jumll ]Ump
Jump, jump, jump--
Walter...
- Do come. All is forgiven.
Really?
- Who are you talking to?
Forgiven? Really?
- Of course.
Walter!
- Mr Henkenhaf forgives me.
What about the peat diggers?
- Henkenhaf here...
Let's raise a glass downstairs.
Walter...
They're in America.
- No.
It was never paid for.
They've probably been drowned.
I couldn't help it.
I wanted the best for everyone.
For Theo, for those people...
Has nobody contacted you
from the boat?
I don't know.
- Cousin Al?
I don't know anymore, Chris.
Mr Vedder?
Are you coming?
Yes.
No, no, Walter!
A bit more to the right, and a little higher.
Yes, a new era.
I wish you good luck.
- Thank you very much.
It's an honour to tread
in your footsteps.
Oh, well...
Good bye.
Diploma Doctor/Pharmacist
Christiaan...
I went to the pharmacist.
They said you'd be here.
This was forwarded to me.
It's for you.
- From the disciplinary tribunal?
I'm getting legal assistance.
- It's not from them.
Dear Dr Anijs...
...my apologies that I've only now found
the time and peace to write to you.
You, to whom we owe so much,
if not everything.
As an excuse, I may say that we had
quite an adventurous trip.
Sieger, go away-
Man overboard.
Man overboard.
The trip took several weeks.
Luckily we arrived in daylight.
In the early morning...
...so that the promised land
lay open to our eyes.
We were taken to Castle Garden,
an old fort.
We were supposed to have met
our agent there.
But there was no one. He wasn't there.
We didn't know what it meant.
We waited for days.
Some of us lost hope...
...when we got the devastating news
that the agency no longer existed.
The agent who should be our guarantor
was on the run for the authorities.
Nothing had ever been paid.
Can you imagine?
After everything you and your cousin
had done for us.
This agent, whose name I do not know,
left something behind...
...a violin.
The shipping company decided
to call in an expert...
...and it turned out to be
a very rare instrument.
A so-called Syde.
The violin was so valuable that
the company accepted it as payment.
Do you still make cabinets?
- Don't you trust my expertise?
Imitation Stradivarius.
Red, weak varnish. Poor inclination.
No signature. A winter job.
We can go, come along.
We all went in different directions.
We were now in the land
of unlimited possibilities.
Some went to Michigan,
Pennsylvania, Oklahoma.
We stayed in New York.
Look, Dad'.
- We changed our name to Benjamin.
That was my grandfather's name
whose mohel box is now yours.
I've found employment now
and the first thing I bought...
We will never forget the person
to whom we owe all this.
To you, Doctor Anijs...
...and Mr Vedder.
Give him our kind regards
when you see him.
With inexpressible gratitude
I sign off with the name...
...you will always remember me by...
...Pet Bennemin.
They are alive.
They made it.
The reason I went to the pharmacist...
I often feel sick in the morning.
Is there a cure for it?
Some opiates can...
No...
You're going to be a father, Christiaan.
After all.
I'm sorry, about everything.
Everything I said, and...
I've really come to ask if you...
...if you will take me back.
Please...
Our child will have a father.
Look here... for the last two years
I've been refused entry here. And why?
Am I not... a real man?
Am I not a suitable party?
You're too good for me?
Now what?
Then just play something.
- Yes, music.
Stop it.
I don't hear anything.
Sager, phase don't.
Play.
Please don't.
Dad, dad...
Let go of me.
Mama!
Mama!
Construction of the Central Station
A new era, gentlemen.
Progress waits for no man.
So much has been
accomplished in this city:
The Dutch Crystal Palace, Amstel Hotel,
both by Outshoorn.
Vondel Park, American Hotel,
the Rijksmuseum by Pierre Cuypers.
He is also the spiritual father
of a building that's soon to be completed:
Central Station.
Just imagine: a constant stream
of travellers, thousands a day.
It's obvious that there's only one location
possible for our hotel.
And that's here.
And the people who live there?
- We buy them out.
They have no idea of the true value.
No idea.
Poor devils.
Easy.
Sit down here, children.
Let's sit down here.
Come on.
I do apologise.
I don't know what got into them.
Take off your cap.
Never mind. I'm fond of children.
My son Theo is approaching
an awkward age.
You'll find out one day.
All the same he's a source
of great joy to me.
He wants to be an architect.
- A costly training.
Certainly. But my prospects are good.
Chris!
- Walter!
Good to see you.
- Dear cousin...
Theo, welcome.
My cousin from Amsterdam.
Good day.
This way.
Bye, sir.
- Goodbye, madam.
It's not far, you know.
But the station is in the wrong place.
It's the same in Amsterdam.
It's a colossal mistake
to build the Central Station there.
Ultimately only one thing matters:
the location.
You wrote about your house.
How's that going?
How long since I had that letter, Theo?
From Victoria Hotel, asking me
to sell my house to them.
My house!
They want to build a hotel there.
I wasn't the only one.
My neighbour had that letter, too.
Maybe all my neighbours.
All because of the new station.
Can you imagine?
The land our houses stood on
was now worth a fortune.
We knew from the start
what our strategy should be.
Carstens's house was worth as much
as mine, and I would represent him.
I'd hoped Henkenhaf,
the big boss, would come...
...but we got his assistant, one Ebert.
An excellent location for a grand hotel.
The American hotel on Leidseplein
was a major mistake.
Before long we'll be opponents
in the negotiations...
...but that's a compliment.
- Thank you.
We will open the hotel
as soon as the station is finished.
That will take time
but for us time's short.
Not for us. We are living here quite
contentedly. Aren't we, Carstens?
Yes...
Our offer will please you.
- Your offer?
Our asking price is more important.
- If you wish.
The most important thing
is the sum we agree on in the end.
I beg your pardon. Could that differ
from our asking price?
You can't force us to depart from it.
TAXATION
20,000?
You paid my neighbours 20,000?
Excuse me, but the confidentiality
I observe here and now...
...forbids me to mention...
Ah, there you are, Theo.
Come here a minute.
I'll introduce my son Theo.
Theo, this is Mr Ebert.
Hello.
Theo, look at this drawing.
What a magnificent design.
No, I grant you that much.
Stay with us, Theo. So you can learn
how businessmen conduct negotiations.
We saw that the Chamber of Commerce
calls you a cabinetmaker.
I'm a violin builder. Do you see
any cabinets here? No, only violins.
Tell me your price.
Price? There is no price.
I'll hear your offer first.
- With pleasure.
But allow me to dispense
with the haggling.
The taxation has given us
enough indication.
Your offer? Please.
Twenw.
Fifty.
It was his arrogance that did it.
He's been back several times since
but he refuses to meet our demands.
Anijs...
Ah, Mayor, and Dr Amshoff...
Dr Amshoff tells me that, remarkably
enough, you have no university degree.
He can't be serious,
after all those years.
The doctor must be joking.
Or is he?
When I started, it was not necessary.
- But now it's compulsory.
Our friend Anijs had time on his side.
Our former dispensing chemist
did have a degree.
Yes, he certainly did.
You've just been lucky, Mr Anijs.
A beautiful wife
and a flourishing chemist's shop.
If you'll excuse us...
THE TWELVE APOSTLES
Do you still make... cabinets as well?
Don't you trust my expertise?
- On the contrary.
An imitation Stradivarius.
Weak varnish. Poor inclination.
No signature. A winter job.
Beg pardon?
In a cold winter
they either make clogs or...
It's from Bohemia, about 100 years old.
ls the owner a patient?
Yes, they work in the fields.
Peat diggers.
Bennemin...
Can I help you?
- Come with me, darling.
You once told me you had a cousin...
- Alexander, yes.
Lives in America.
Excuse me, I thought it was Amsterdam.
Ah yes, my other cousin. Walter Vedder.
He buys and sells violins
in Amsterdam.
Could he sell this one, do you think?
They forced me to play this...
For generations in my family.
When a Jew cries, others are laughing.
Isn't that the saying?
Laugh if you wish.
- Pet...
You've got to leave.
What do you mean?
- Get out of the peat district.
About my violin...
Could you ask your cousin to...
Yes.
I'll write to my cousin.
It's terribly sad.
Well, is it worth anything?
Will you sell it for him?
And what will it fetch, do you think?
A hundred guilders. But for that sum
you could buy a new instrument.
A hundred guilders? But for people in
those circumstances that's marvellous.
Could you scribble something on a piece
of paper, in the way of a receipt?
So I can give him something tangible.
- I will.
So we have a wealthy dinner guest.
You should have seen him when he saw
such bargaining by a mere craftsman.
You must be proud of your father.
There's no way around it:
If they want their hotel they have to pay.
Wonderful, hear that Christiaan?
Were there further negotiations?
He's been round several times
but we got no closer together.
And I see no reason to lower my price.
Fifty thousand guilders...
When Theo studies architecture
he needs to travel...
...books, college fees, the student life.
Enjoyed your meal, Theo?
Some of the money I'll invest, of course.
Perhaps in oil, the product of the future.
And modern steam boats.
Peat is on the way out. In Amsterdam
nobody burns peat. I don't.
That violin man of yours
is in the wrong place here.
People prefer oil from America.
Talking about America:
He's written me a letter.
Who... Alexander?
Yes. Well...
He calls himself Al now.
He still speaks Dutch but with an effort.
He'll be in Amsterdam soon.
In America the streets
are paved with gold, people say.
Is Ala rich man?
Not sure. His father was a vicar.
He went to try his luck.
He didn't go there to make money...
...but more because of social
compassion.
The same goes for me, really.
In my job, social compassion is much
more important than the right diploma.
You need love
for your fellow human beings.
And you do love them,
more than our doctor...
...who you're regularly at odds with.
But do be careful. The peat diggers
now look upon you as their doctor.
And that's ludicrous.
- Ludicrous?
I pity them and that's why I go
and give them medicine.
And I'll go again tomorrow whatever
you and doctor Amshoff may think.
Nobody is concerned
about the peat diggers. Nobody.
What about Amshoff?
- He just cashes his pay cheque.
If I didn't help them
they'd have no medical care.
But you have no medical qualifications.
You could be taken to court.
Amshoff...
His idle talk.
- My father got on with him.
Yes, your father did.
Have you thought about...
It's a new era now.
There are medical tests.
I can't see the point.
We must take it as it comes.
Let's... once more...
Out of the way!
That's me, Vedder.
Alexander, I didn't expect you here...
Is that your shop?
- Yes. Come.
How you've changed.
That's a consignment
from my cousin Chris in Hoogeveen.
Remember him?
Cousin Christiaan.
I've got that photograph as well.
- Do you?
I'm glad father had several copies made.
How much do you want for it?
Are you serious?
It's not a very special one.
I've always wanted to have a violin.
I'll look it over first
and when you come back again...
...we'll discuss the price and you decide.
What are your plans in Holland?
- Seeing relatives, and some business.
Where are you staying?
I'm an American
so I stay in the American Hotel.
That's why I'm here. I want to ask you
if you know people who...
Excuse me, neighbour, I just came in
to ask how the negotiations are doing.
Their new offer is due any day now.
But did you see our neighbours?
Idiots.
They sold for far too little.
OK, I've got appointments.
I'll be back soon.
- Yes, I'll see you then.
We're sitting on a goldmine.
They're in a hurry.
- But my wife is ill. It's her leg.
We have to have a decision soon.
-It will be all right, trust me.
Fifty?
- Fifty.
His neighbour, Carstens...
He negotiates on his behalf.
They're the last two.
How will you solve that?
- There's time enough.
He must know our offer is reasonable.
I've contracted the demolishers.
They need to start soon.
What kind of man is it?
A cabinetmaker who calls himself
a violin builder. Widower. One son.
A special lad.
What?
- No, nothing.
Theo, wait a minute.
A registration form?
- For the Academy, to register.
My finals aren't till next year.
- There's no harm in applying early.
Dad...
- What's up? Aren't you glad?
Ebert is sure to pay up.
- No, Dad...
I want to go into business.
- What?
I take no interest in architecture.
No... I don't understand you.
We've always walked through town
discussing town planning, the canals...
No dad, you do the talking and I listen.
Such are our discussions.
I don't want to go to university.
Perhaps further north
there's some money to be earned.
Most of the peat's gone.
What's the matter?
Sieger won't acknowledge it.
Why not? It's his duty.
Juniper extract?
An abortion?
- Please.
No... Nobody is above life and death,
dear girl.
But...with Juniper...
How's my Little Pet?
Fine.
- Good.
Here, this will calm you down.
Open your mouth, please.
Come on then, it does help.
What did Bennemin come in for?
He came for some Theriac.
Christiaan...
Yes?
Pretending to be the doctor
in the peat field.
I beg you not to do it again.
You're my darling.
I don't want you to get into trouble.
Promise me you won't do it again.
When I see Amshoff, I'll tell him to go
and see people in the peat fields.
All right?
Christiaan?
Promise?
All right then.
Neighbour, neighbour...
How can they?
I don't... They sold out to them.
Are they pulling down our houses too?
Where's this man Ebert?
- He said he'd be here today or tomorrow.
You'll be a rich man, believe me.
- Really, really?
Really, really, it's true.
I'll go and tell my wife. She's still poorly
but the good news may cheer her up.
What are they doing?
Building a skyscraper?
Hi Alexander.
Want a drink?
- No, my boat is ready to sail.
What's your job, really?
I'm in immigration, or emigration,
depending on your point of view.
I'm an agent who helps people
to go to America.
We lend them the money for the fare...
...and they pay it back with interest
when they're there.
I'm a broker.
I deal in people.
Helping people is great.
But here...
Changing your mind about a drink?
Or a piece of mackerel?
No, I came about the violin.
Did you look at it?
Sorry, I've been so busy.
- No problem.
I'm taking it. A hundred dollars,
is that enough?
Yes.
Farewell, cousin.
Pet?
What's the matter?
- We need the doctor.
The doctor? He doesn't live here.
Come and get warm.
Dear Pet, for once and for all,
my husband is not a...
You must come.
- What's the matter?
My sister's poorly. You must come.
Christiaan...
You promised.
Please...
Amshoff, go and fetch Amshoff.
- I'm only going to take a look.
No, you're not. I forbid you to go.
Go, go!
Christiaan... stay here.
I've been to see you five times
and you're refusing to negotiate.
Because you think...
- But I'll offer you twenty-five thousand.
Five more than
what your neighbours got.
Mr Vedder, please accept this.
Also for your old neighbour?
And move out today, I beg you.
First all the pipes are removed,
then we start demolishing.
In two weeks' time we start building.
Building?
There will be fences all around
and workmen will be in and out.
Cranes, pile drivers...
And it will go on all night.
The hotel already exists.
It's stored in dozens of warehouses
in the Netherlands and abroad.
This is a new era, Mr Vedder.
The parts only need to be transported
here by ship or train...
...to be assembled.
Are you hearing me?
I made you a higher offer.
Do not reject it.
Mr Vedder...
Theo, come in. You'll get soaked.
Where are you all the time?
My son...
What's wrong with him?
Your son is a magnificent young man,
had you noticed?
What you mean?
Mr Vedder, my offer...
Fifty.
This bill of exchange for a few thousand.
Any bank will cash it.
See it as an advance and move house.
Please, there's no time left.
Who says I am going to sell? Send
Henkenhaf and I will deal with him.
Mr Henkenhaf has no time for you,
I'm sorry.
And?
- I don't see anything yet.
Doctor...
It's abnormal to be so swollen.
It's got to come out.
Please doctor, do something.
- Please.
A knife. A really sharp knife.
It's coming.
It's coming.
Thank you.
I only had to do a puncture.
To release the pressure.
That evening...
...when you had to play the violin.
Sieger wasn't the only one, was he?
Pet?
I closed my eyes.
The whole time.
Dr Amshoff, what can I do for you?
- Where is the baby?
The baby?
- Bennemin's daughter...
She wanted Juniper extract.
From you, too, I bet.
She can't have got it,
but what happened to the pregnancy?
A miscarriage most likely?
May the heavens prove you right.
I'm going to investigate. If it turns out
that a full-term baby was born...
...for which you had the audacity
to ascertain death...
...I'll report you
to a disciplinary tribunal.
Martha...
Martha?
Martha.
My father was a chemist here
for 44 years but he never stuck...
...a potato peeler into a pregnant girl.
- Stop it.
Not a potato peeler
but a circumcision scalpel.
And what will Amshoff do?
Get them to testify to what you've done.
Then what happens to us?
Walter!
Chris!
Yes.
Yes, I'm sorry I'm late.
I meant to meet you.
Walter.
- Chris.
Look at the detour
everybody has to make.
Over here, not a bridge to be seen.
And there four bridges close together.
Before we get things done here...
Public works.
I see, it's the same everywhere.
Yes, but come along.
He spent weeks in the American Hotel.
So he's not short of cash.
My father knew about wines.
- Yes?
We always served the best wines.
The elite of the town would come:
the Mayor, the Vicar, Dr Amshoff.
Even people all the way from Groningen.
- Really?
My father was an authority
on health matters.
And a good father for his children.
Did Al come to Holland just to see you?
No, he's an agent who helps people
move to America.
He lends the money
which they repay with interest...
...when they get work there.
He is represented by a kind of solicitor.
Now you can give them
the hundred dollars.
They can make good use of it
and I don't need to benefit.
Are they still living in the peat fields?
Yes...
- Terrible.
The misery...
Why doesn't the Government step in?
Is there no social compassion
for those people?
Is the sale of your house concluded?
Yes. Well, nearly.
Wonderful.
- Yes.
Which Academy is he going to?
What do you mean?
- Theo. The architecture course.
We're still thinking.
I plan to invest the whole sum.
In what?
I haven't decided yet. Oil maybe.
Or shares in the Victoria Hotel.
That would be a joke.
- No...
I keep all my options open.
Those at the top
think we'll swallow anything.
The differences in the world. The poor,
and then the rich who wallow in wealth.
I used to build cabinets but that was
a non-earner. Now I make violins.
I often feel I'm not taken seriously.
Such an agent invests in people really,
doesn't he?
He lends them money, they go to
America and pay him back with interest.
We could, on the basis
of our social compassion...
You mean...
What about the interest?
- You decide the interest in the contract.
Yes?
You just mentioned the differences
between the rich and the poor.
Those who think they're placed above us
on the basis of their titles...
...and the ordinary, hard-working citizens.
It's a social investment
but lucrative at the same time.
Yes.
Cousin...
A kind of public works,
but now they're yours.
You're a financial backer
and a benefactor.
You help them escape from their misery
and you get your interest.
A social investment.
- The new era.
The new era.
Little Pet!
- Go tell everybody to come.
Come here.
Everybody's got to come.
Come, the doctor has arrived!
Fresh air. That's important.
Bennemin, could you step forward,
please?
Is it true that, some time ago,
you gave your violin to me...
...so that my cousin could sell it?
And when he promised to undertake the
consignation, did he give you a receipt?
Get the receipt.
Thank you, Bennemin.
I return the receipt to you, dear cousin.
And this, good Bennemin, is for you.
A hundred dollars.
It was sold for three times
the asking price...
...to an American.
All you peat diggers must be wondering...
...why we are here,
what our business here could be.
Well, you too are offered the opportunity
to enter it into a contract.
Whereby you would be signing a form
which in away is an IOU...
...but which is not valid once the money
has been repaid. Right, cousin?
Who would like to go to America?
I'm absolutely serious.
Who would like to go to America?
Away from these...
...inhuman conditions
and build up a new life...
...in the land of unlimited possibilities?
Who wants to go to America?
A hundred families?
- Slightly less.
Often a father, a mother and three
children. There's a high death rate.
Five per family, a hundred per person.
An investment of 45,000 guilders.
Plus costs.
Look, this is a specimen
of the contracts we use.
For each family you will be required
to deposit five hundred guilders...
...in the account of the agent...
...who promises to find accommodation
and employment for the family...
...and to repay the deposit made by you
in instalments...
...with interest as stipulated
in the contract.
I'll prepare the documents for you.
For us it's a routine business.
I've arranged hundreds of them,
also for your American cousin.
Of course, I understand.
You should eat, it's good for you.
Please.
- Carstens...
Good day, Mrs Carstens.
The demolition, the dust and noise
have made it all much worse.
The doctors will cure you, I'm sure.
Really, your house will soon be sold.
Trust me. We've got them over a barrel.
I presume that Mr Ebert
has been sacked.
And that Henkenhaf himself will appear.
They have no choice.
They've got simply no choice.
I'm moving in with relatives
near here.
And your shop?
- What shop?
I have zero customers now.
I will badly need that money soon.
Parcel for you.
Learn English Fast
GRAND OPENING
You've applied for a passport?
- Yes.
Congratulations.
- Thank you.
Applied for a passport?
What a lot of noise!
Doesn't it trouble you?
- No, not really.
I am g0ir19---
...to America.
On behalf of all Amsterdamers
I wish to thank Dr Cuypers...
...for his unique creation.
This magnificent building
will be the entrance gate to our city.
I hereby solemnly declare
the Amsterdam Central Station opened!
STUBBORN BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Mr Vedder, mail for you.
Why did you ring the bell?
Why did you ring?
I wasn't sure you still lived here.
Dear Mr Vedder, I'm letting you know
I have opened a bank account...
...so that you can transfer the money
for the voyage.
Now that you mention it...
Anijs...
Yes, Mr Mayor.
I'm reminded of how your predecessor,
her father, used to entertain.
Such pleasant occasions.
I like to think back on them.
Perhaps we can...
- But why I came to see you...
Do you know why so many peat diggers
are applying for passports?
And why are they selling everything:
beds, tables, chairs?
I think they are going to work elsewhere.
The Peel district in Germany?
The Belgian mines?
There is hardly any peat left.
- But there's still enough to do.
We have contracts to honour.
Factories have to keep going.
You must see that I cannot allow
the working population to disappear.
Aren't you going too far?
I'm warning you as a good friend.
Bye, Martha.
Dear cousin and good friend Walter.
How the Americans have kept us waiting.
When I'd heard from Al,
I went to Assen station...
...and arranged that two cattle wagons
are attached to the first train that day.
Our emigrants will arrive at Amsterdam
Station in the morning of 20 April...
...and travel on from there
on a steamer.
They can't wait for the moment
they can finally step on board.
They've even started packing.
How much did you sell your house for
in the end?
You lucky dog.
Warm regards, also from Martha.
Thank you, on behalf of the peat diggers.
Your cousin Chris.
Morning.
- Sir?
I've come to see Mr Henkenhaf.
Do you have an appointment?
- No, but he expects me.
What's your name?
- Vedder. Walter Vedder.
Texelsche Kaai number 46,
and he'll know.
I am quite sure he'd love to see me.
Mr Henkenhaf?
There's a Mr Vedder to see you.
Vedder?
- From Texelsche Kaai.
He was sure you'd like to see him.
N u m ber 46.
- Forty-six?
Thank you, let him wait.
Will he be long? I'm pressed for time.
I don't know.
Pardon?
- I don't know, sir.
I've waited...
- Mr Henkenhaf is a busy man.
I know he wants to see me.
He can't do without me.
Mr Vedder?
I hardly recognised you. How are you?
You don't look very well.
I'm here for Mr Henkenhaf, not you.
I only deal directly with him now.
- Mr Vedder...
I'm sorry I have to take it higher up
but you're keeping me on a string.
But you will find that the press
is on my side.
One day the press will see
we did the right thing.
Fine, excellent.
Madam, the house in question
is number 46, and 47 as well.
I demand to see him.
It's too late.
We're building around you.
I am serious, Mr Vedder. We've been
considering this option for months.
Your house will stay yours
but incorporated in the hotel.
Your business with Mr Henkenhaf
is over.
Around me?
Around me?
Think about your own health,
not about Mr Henkenhaf.
That's impossible.
- He is a renowned architect.
After the fire in the Kurhaus...
At least buy my neighbour's house.
His wife's death has cost him much.
Twenty-five, that was your offer,
wasn't it? Fine.
Agreed.
- I have to leave.
No, let's talk some more and negotiate.
There are people on their way...
...and nothing's been paid.
People?
- People.
Peat diggers. It was all arranged through
my cousin, my other cousin.
He's also involved.
Peat diggers.
Mr Vedder...
Friends... peat diggers.
You've been through hard times.
The years of peat are numbered.
The future lies elsewhere.
Your future lies elsewhere.
To be exact:
in the United States of America.
From now on you're no longer
peat diggers, but colonists.
Entrepreneurs, in fact.
You've taken out a mortgage
on your future wage...
...by financing the journey.
Before long you will all be free people...
...in a free country.
I wish you a safe journey
and I thank you for your trust...
...also on behalf of my cousin
Walter Vedder...
...without whom this would not
have been possible.
Ubi bene ibi patria.
Go with God.
Thank you for everything, Doctor.
- I'm glad I could help.
Will you think of me sometimes?
Look what I've got for you.
This is for all of you, on the way.
It's against sea-sickness.
Thank you.
We've also got something for you.
For us you will always be the doctor.
Time for you to go.
Dad, the bees...
We thought of everything
except the beehive.
The population will die if no one...
- I'll see to them.
Won't I? I have to be around there
anyway. I'll go now.
Thank you, doctor.
Bye, Little Pet.
- May all go well for you.
Travel safely.
Bye bye, Pet.
- Travel safely.
CITY HALL
Mr Vedder?
Are you there?
May I ask, are you Mr Vedder's son?
Yes.
- Is he still there? You haven't moved?
Soon.
We collected cents and half cents from
everybody. Will you give this to him?
He will always have a place
in our hearts.
What were they here for?
Who were those people?
- Where have you been?
I haven't seen you in two weeks.
When do we go for a walk
in town again, the two of us?
And this time I will listen to you.
Theo...
When are you coming back home?
You call this home?
I've come to fetch my things. That's all.
BOARDING
Where has everybody gone?
So there's the grave.
That means an autopsy and a tribunal.
What's he doing this time?
Eternal Thanks
Good day, madam.
Ladies...
What can I do for you?
You want to book a room?
Good morning.
Did we sleep well?
Very well.
Here's your mail.
Shall I read it?
Medical disciplinary tribunal.
You have been indicted
on a charge of burying a child...
...without death certificate
or autopsy report.
Gross negligence and practicing
medicine unqualified.
Christiaan...
Martha?
I'd expected you earlier, so I could...
Dr Amshoff came round and told me...
...about what he saw you do...
...and the disciplinary tribunal.
Martha, the peat diggers...
- That's all you can think of.
You can't bear to be examined, you say.
And now you...
Are you in pain?
Theriac helps. And morphine.
I've moved in with Louise in Groningen.
What?
- For good.
I've got some clothes for you here.
May you get well.
- But Martha, I did everything...
Opening Victoria Hotel.
From the Station we see Henkenhaf and
Ebert's magnificent building looming up.
And the traveller thinks this is Paris
or Vienna...
...were it not that the lovely facade
is marred...
...by two small, delapidated houses.
A few house owners driven by greed...
...resisted the hotel company
with regrettable results...
"especially city spoiler Mr Vedder
of number 46.
CITY SPOILER
Excuse me, may I ask: Does the
gentleman still live in that small house?
That man asked me the same.
Thank you.
I can't believe it.
He didn't pay up. Never.
I so often reminded him. I've even
visited him. I've taken legal steps.
But what about the emigrants?
All I know is that they went on board.
I haven't heard since.
Does my cousin know anything?
- He seems to be hiding.
My other cousin, cousin Al.
Bankrupt.
On the run for the law.
Present whereabouts unknown.
Do you have more cousins?
But the Bennemins? The peat diggers?
Did they get to America?
They had no right
to step on American soil.
Their fare had not been paid
so there are several possibilities.
They sent them back on the first ship.
The Americans don't care where to.
Russia maybe, or Italy.
Or they were interned.
But I've heard
of less fainthearted captains...
What do you mean?
- They were stowaways after all.
And at sea they have very few rights
as you perhaps know.
What do you imPW?
Plenty of captains
just put them overboard.
All those mouths need feeding.
And when they haven't been paid...
Walter!
Walter, it's me, your cousin.
Open up.
Your Royal Highness, and the most
honourable King's Commissioner...
Walter?
It's me, your cousin.
I cordially welcome you
to this festive opening ceremony...
Vedder?
Vedder?
You are...
You are Mr Henkenhaf.
Good day, Mr Vedder.
Are you still angry with me?
Not at all.
- No?
Wouldn't you like to come in?
That's him! The city spoiler.
Up there.
-It's Vedder!
Why do you want me to come in?
- Aren't we neighbours?
Walter?
What happened?
- I couldn't help it.
Why didn't you sell?
I wanted to, but Mr Henkenhaf
and the negotiations...
Mr Vedder? There's a reception
downstairs, everybody is there.
Even the King phoned.
Won't you have a glass of champagne?
Walter...
Jump!
'jumll ]Ump
Jump, jump, jump--
Walter...
- Do come. All is forgiven.
Really?
- Who are you talking to?
Forgiven? Really?
- Of course.
Walter!
- Mr Henkenhaf forgives me.
What about the peat diggers?
- Henkenhaf here...
Let's raise a glass downstairs.
Walter...
They're in America.
- No.
It was never paid for.
They've probably been drowned.
I couldn't help it.
I wanted the best for everyone.
For Theo, for those people...
Has nobody contacted you
from the boat?
I don't know.
- Cousin Al?
I don't know anymore, Chris.
Mr Vedder?
Are you coming?
Yes.
No, no, Walter!
A bit more to the right, and a little higher.
Yes, a new era.
I wish you good luck.
- Thank you very much.
It's an honour to tread
in your footsteps.
Oh, well...
Good bye.
Diploma Doctor/Pharmacist
Christiaan...
I went to the pharmacist.
They said you'd be here.
This was forwarded to me.
It's for you.
- From the disciplinary tribunal?
I'm getting legal assistance.
- It's not from them.
Dear Dr Anijs...
...my apologies that I've only now found
the time and peace to write to you.
You, to whom we owe so much,
if not everything.
As an excuse, I may say that we had
quite an adventurous trip.
Sieger, go away-
Man overboard.
Man overboard.
The trip took several weeks.
Luckily we arrived in daylight.
In the early morning...
...so that the promised land
lay open to our eyes.
We were taken to Castle Garden,
an old fort.
We were supposed to have met
our agent there.
But there was no one. He wasn't there.
We didn't know what it meant.
We waited for days.
Some of us lost hope...
...when we got the devastating news
that the agency no longer existed.
The agent who should be our guarantor
was on the run for the authorities.
Nothing had ever been paid.
Can you imagine?
After everything you and your cousin
had done for us.
This agent, whose name I do not know,
left something behind...
...a violin.
The shipping company decided
to call in an expert...
...and it turned out to be
a very rare instrument.
A so-called Syde.
The violin was so valuable that
the company accepted it as payment.
Do you still make cabinets?
- Don't you trust my expertise?
Imitation Stradivarius.
Red, weak varnish. Poor inclination.
No signature. A winter job.
We can go, come along.
We all went in different directions.
We were now in the land
of unlimited possibilities.
Some went to Michigan,
Pennsylvania, Oklahoma.
We stayed in New York.
Look, Dad'.
- We changed our name to Benjamin.
That was my grandfather's name
whose mohel box is now yours.
I've found employment now
and the first thing I bought...
We will never forget the person
to whom we owe all this.
To you, Doctor Anijs...
...and Mr Vedder.
Give him our kind regards
when you see him.
With inexpressible gratitude
I sign off with the name...
...you will always remember me by...
...Pet Bennemin.
They are alive.
They made it.
The reason I went to the pharmacist...
I often feel sick in the morning.
Is there a cure for it?
Some opiates can...
No...
You're going to be a father, Christiaan.
After all.
I'm sorry, about everything.
Everything I said, and...
I've really come to ask if you...
...if you will take me back.
Please...
Our child will have a father.