Smart Girl (1935) Movie Script
Hello. We just fired the butler.
What can I do for you?
Does Mr James Reynolds live here?
Yes, but he's rather busy.
You're sure there's nothing
I can take care of?
I am ..
No. I'm sorry. You see, I'm ..
I say. You aren't going to cry, are you?
I'd like to.
You know, if I knew you better
I'd let you cry on my shoulder.
But since I don't, why don't
you just say it and get it over?
Are you a bill-collector?
- No.
You can come in then.
- Wait.
I'm not a bill-collector. I'm worse.
I'm a process-server.
- You're not, really?
Let's see you do it.
- What?
Don't you pull out a paper or something?
Yes, but it has to be put on the
person who's being served.
That person is my father.
Well, come on.
It's a bit quiet with the servants gone.
- Why did they go?
They insisted on being paid.
We're very hospitable anyway.
I was having some caviar.
Would you like some?
Caviar?
- You know. Caviar.
If you sit down, I'll get you some.
Thanks, but I really don't care for any.
I'd like to see Mr Reynolds.
He's in there. He'll be out in a minute.
Then you can pop up and nail him.
Mr Courtland .. James Reynolds speaking.
Hello Reynolds. What's on your mind?
I've been trying to reach you all day,
Harry. You've got to give me an answer.
Sorry. I thought I gave you
my answer last week.
I'm not asking too much of you.
I pulled you through
with half a million.
A hundred thousand would tide me over.
I've got to have it by noon.
I'm sorry, but I can't take a chance
with your present financial conditions.
You mean you .. won't come through?
I see.
I ..
Alright.
Even the caviar is gone.
Did you see father?
No.
Then you didn't serve your papers?
No, I didn't.
You know, you don't look at all like
a proper process-server would.
In fact, you're kind-of cute.
Would you like to marry me?
- I would not.
Suit yourself. I just thought I'd ask.
You see, I'm getting sort
of fed up in this place.
Do you have an apartment?
Yes.
- Do you live alone?
Yes.
I'll come and have dinner
with you some time.
How old are you?
Twenty-five.
- What?
Twenty-three?
- Come again?
Alright, I'll be twenty-one next
month and that's the truth.
If you don't mind, Miss Reynolds,
I came to see your father.
You don't need to get huffy about it.
Can you make coffee?
Well, can you?
- Sure.
That settles it. Come on.
Miss Reynolds, I didn't come to make
coffee. I came here to see your father.
You can make the coffee first.
Quite a kitchen.
- It gives me the creeps.
It's awful having a
kitchen and no servants.
Can you work this thing?
Maybe.
I don't know what you do.
Just push something or pull something.
It's a mystery to me.
- I think this is what you turn.
What?
- You turn that. See ..
It works. You're a genius.
Wait, and I'll get the coffee.
Miss Reynolds asked
me to turn on the stove.
Pat, are you in there?
I got it. On the top shelf and
everything came down with it.
Pat.
We're making coffee. Get the percolator.
- Who's that?
Yes, he came to collect something.
You're a bill-collector?
- No.
Excuse me, this is my sister Kay.
What's your name?
Nicholas Graham.
- Nick came to see father for some cash.
Then you are a bill-collector?
No. No, I'm a process-server.
A summons? Did you serve father?
Not yet.
Kay, will you please help
me find the percolator?
I don't know anything
about this kitchen.
Is this it? Can you make coffee in this?
No, but I can make some in a pan.
- Let's get him a pan then.
This pan is alright.
You got a tablespoon?
- Yes, here's one.
Now, let's see you make it.
You know, you really are marvelous.
What are your other accomplishments?
I am studying law.
- You're going to be a lawyer?
I hope to be.
- I like lawyers. Let's adopt him, Sis'.
Don't pay any attention to her.
- Who has the spoon?
Here it is?
- How much do you make now, Nick?
Fifty dollars a week.
Fifty dollars a week.
Just think of it.
I'm afraid you'll have to learn
how get along on much less.
Don't you be so sure. I'm going to
save this family from starvation yet.
Hey .. did you happen to know that
even this house is mortgaged?
It is? How do you know?
I listened in on an extension.
- You ought to be ashamed of yourself.
I am.
You could even open up a grocery store.
- No, I would eat up all the profits.
We could start a livery
with all the cars we have.
How many have you?
- About seven I think.
Yes, that's right.
That's tough. Why don't you sell some?
I don't think the finance
company would like it.
I knew it was blown or
something. Wait, I'll get ..
It's alright.
Gee, I'm sorry. It was all my fault.
- Pat is enough to distract anybody.
I'm glad you were here.
So am I.
[ Gunshot! ]
Sounded like a shot.
Father.
Pat, what is it?
Ladies and gentlemen, I want you to
realize that these are all Objets d'Art.
Collected by the late James Reynolds.
Thanks.
Here, ladies and gentlemen.
Here is a chair.
A chair that the late
James Reynolds sat in.
What am I offered?
- Three dollars.
Three dollars?
Isn't it a shame? All these lovely
things going. It's such a sacrifice.
Yes.
Say, just a minute. Come here.
Ask the auctioneer to put these up
right away. I want to bid on them.
That isn't for sale.
Why not? Did you buy it already?
- No. It just isn't for sale.
My dear young lady, don't ..
Don't talk such nonsense.
We got here a public auction, ain't we?
I don't care nothing about the book.
I'm only interested in these sketches.
See, that's my business. Hats.
I'd like to know the
artist that made these.
I know the artist.
You know where he lives?
- Yes.
Has he got a telephone number?
Is he in the telephone book?
Really, I am .. I am serious.
I would like to meet this man.
- I think I can arrange it.
What's your name?
You wouldn't remember. Wait.
I'll write it down for you here.
Karl .. Krausemeyer.
How is my hand? Can you decipher that?
Sure.
Please now, don't just say yes.
Please have the artist call.
You won't forget will you?
- No. I won't forget.
Splendid. What is your name?
- Patricia Reynolds.
Patricia ..
Your father.
I'm .. I'm so sorry.
It's alright.
I wish I could tell you how
I feel about all of this.
Thanks a lot. As long as I know you're
sorry, you don't have to tell me.
I'm not really sorry for you.
About the sale I mean.
You're not?
- Certainly I'm not.
What have you got to worry about?
- Plenty.
I've had everything
I wanted all my life.
If you ask me, that's the worst
thing to happen to a person.
You're quite a philosopher, aren't you?
Yes. I guess I am a bit.
Privation and suffering brings
out the best in people.
Perhaps I don't want to suffer.
A bit of suffering won't hurt anybody.
Suffering brings two
people closer together.
What two people?
Any two people. I mean, well ..
If you had everything
the way you used to ..
There are people who ..
I wonder if maybe we had better go in.
- I shouldn't wonder.
You can't always trust
people at auctions.
Item number 429.
It's being brought
forward for your inspection.
Now this, ladies and gentlemen ..
Gee, it's ghostly and
awful in here, isn't it?
It was a beautiful room
when I first saw it.
You may sit down. We must wait for Pat.
We can't let her see you alone.
Would you like a cigarette?
- That might help.
Thanks .. anyway, the moon is coming up.
I liked it better without the curtains.
Is that Pat?
- It looks like her.
Pat.
- Yep?
Where have you been?
Just looking around for
things that aren't there.
Nice of you to look after Kay, Nick.
It's just that I ..
- I know.
Give me a cigarette, will you?
Thanks.
Fun going to the Poorhouse, isn't it?
- You're not going to the Poorhouse.
I'll have to look in.
Thanks.
That's funny.
- What?
I was going to turn on the radio.
That's all.
Someone will have the surprise
of their lives when they try to play it.
Why?
- I broke the tubes in it.
Pat, you didn't?
- I did.
You don't carry a harmonica
around with you, Nick?
No, I'm sorry.
- Not even a bass fiddle?
No.
Looks like a quiet evening.
I forgot.
I hid some things in the cellar.
Nick.
Don't propose to Kay while I'm gone.
Because you know I want you.
Kay.
That looks much more comfortable.
It does, doesn't it.
Of course, we really should be going.
Where are you going? I mean,
what are you planning on doing?
We still have a few friends left.
Fred Barton and his wife have
offered to let us use their penthouse.
Do you think two people can
live on fifty dollars a week?
That's what you make, isn't it?
- Uhuh.
I've heard of it being done.
You can get a fine little apartment
for 45 dollars a month.
How much does that leave?
- 4 times 50 is ..
What's the 4 for?
- Weeks in a month.
Sometimes there are 5 pay days.
That's right. Five times 50 is ..
On the other hand.
If we only count four, then the
fifth will come as a nice surprise.
That's right.
4 times 50 is 200 dollars a month.
That's a lot of money.
200 minus 45 leaves 155 dollars.
Do groceries cost much?
- Practically nothing.
Pat says with the right kind of mind,
you can get excited over a cut of lamb.
You think you have that kind of a mind?
- I don't know.
I've never done any marketing.
Would you go with me?
- Would I? Every Saturday night.
Would you carry the basket?
- Sure, I'd carry the basket.
You know .. it might be fun.
It will be fun.
[ Crying noises ]
Is that you, Patricia?
- No.
Don't call me Patricia.
- What's the matter with you?
I can't say.
I'd like to see Mr Krausemeyer please.
- He's very busy. What is it?
I have some sketches to show him.
We aren't interested in sketches.
But Mr Krausemeyer is. He sent for me.
What's the name?
- Patricia Reynolds.
Hello? What is it?
Never mind. Don't tell me. I'm busy.
A girl here says you sent for her.
- Tell him we met at the ..
I didn't send for any girl.
I'm in a business conference.
Go and get away. Ring me off.
Don't bother me.
I am sorry.
But .. he sent for me.
He won't see you.
Yes?
- Come in, Miss Brown.
Yes, sir.
I'm telling you Mr Nelson
that I ain't satisfied.
And when Krausemeyer ain't
satisfied, he ain't satisfied.
Very well. I'll take the
sketches back to Albert.
Of course, what we really had in mind ..
- You didn't have nothing in mind.
When you send me a bunch of
sketches of hats like that.
We got the best artists in the business.
- Don't make me laugh.
I don't want photographs.
I want snappy sketches.
The latest art form is
real, live photographs.
Then give me something dead.
Now get out. Bring your artist
here. I'll tell him about it.
Go on. Get out before my
temper gets lost again. Out.
You get out too. Everybody.
I don't want anybody here.
I've never been subjected to
such treatment in all my life.
What I need is new ideas.
It looks like a toadstool.
- Mr Krausemeyer?
Who let you in? Outside please.
I'm busy. Go out.
Mr Krausemeyer, you sent for me.
Here I am.
You're in the wrong place.
I sent for nobody. Please go.
Maybe these will refresh your memory.
- My memory is just ..
Oh yeah.
Sure.
Yeah, now I remember you.
Where's the man who made these sketches?
- I drew them.
You drew?
- Sure.
The other ones too?
- Yes.
My dear young lady .. that's different.
Why didn't you say you wanted to see me?
- Well, I did.
Here. Wait.
Sit down and explain yourself.
Now, listen.
What we need is something new.
Some origination. You understand?
Now you look at these hats here.
Just the same as last year.
That's no good.
- No.
I tell you, Miss .. what's the name?
- Reynolds.
Yeah, Miss Reynolds.
Shakespeare was right when he said you
can fool some people some of the time.
But you can't fool any of the
women any of the time at all.
I'll look through your sketches.
Look.
Mr Krausemeyer, where are your scissors?
Why can't I get something like that?
That's chic you know.
There's something in that.
I could sell twenty gross
of those hats if I had ..
Hey, please. Just a minute.
That's our most expensive felt.
You want new ideas, Mr Krausemeyer,
I'm giving them to you.
I know but ..
- Now look.
Look at that. You like it?
By golly, that's wonderful.
Now, that's what we want.
Something coquettish .. something cool.
You know what I mean?
It's magic.
Surely Miss Reynolds, you
are a regular prestidigitator.
Mr Krausemeyer, what is the time?
That's the kind you see.
Just that little thing.
Half past eleven.
- It's so late. I really must be going.
No, wait. Don't run away now. I want
to talk to you about these sketches.
Mr Krausemeyer, I've
got to go to a wedding.
I'm not interested in weddings.
I'm just interested in your sketches.
Listen. Tell you what I'll do.
- You'll help me tremendously.
I can't go. I can't go.
- Mr Krausemeyer, come along with me.
Mr Krausemeyer, please.
If you'll excuse me, I can't.
I have customers.
Listen, I've got to see four
or five customers today.
I got no time for this monkey-business.
Why not start the wedding sooner?
- If I had, I wouldn't have met you.
I didn't think about that.
Who is getting married?
My sister.
- Your sister?
Congratulations. Is he a nice fellow?
- Nice? He's the man I love.
The man you love? You mean to
say your sister is going to marry ..
You look lovely, Kay.
- Do I?
I don't feel lovely.
I'm terribly nervous.
You've nothing on me.
Marriage is a serious
business, isn't it?
It is for me.
Afraid?
- Positively shaking.
Kay .. shouldn't we start the way we
planned? With our own little place?
Now Nick, will you please
stop worrying about that.
I know, but it seems we're
trespassing on their hospitality.
If Fred is nice enough to let
us use their penthouse ..
Why should we live in a
cheaper place and pay rent?
Hello.
I hope you two aren't starting
this venture with an argument.
Remember when we were first married?
- Stop that, Fred.
Will you tell Nick to stop
worrying about living here.
If we didn't have you, we'd have to
hire a caretaker while we're in Europe.
The only thing I ask is, when you
start throwing things, be reasonable.
Stage your battles in the kitchen.
Don't worry. There won't be
any battles in this family.
No, indeed.
What's the hold up? The minister
is here and we're all ready.
Is Pat here yet?
- No.
If she isn't interested enough to
be on time, why wait for her?
I wonder what's delaying her.
Ca you kids wait in the other room?
I'll be with you in just a moment.
For as much as .. Nicholas and Katharine
have consented together in Holy Wedlock.
I pronounce they are man and wife.
We're too late .. they're married.
That's alright. They're on time.
You know ..
What's the matter?
What are you crying about?
Aren't weddings .. happy?
Not this one.
My feet. I've got to do something.
I congratulate you both and
wish you unending happiness.
Thank you.
What a foot race.
Now, it's my turn.
What do you mean by
deserting us at the altar?
I was out looking for a job, Nick.
Are you happy?
Why wouldn't I be? With the swell-est
little sister in all the world.
I hope you always will be.
Of course, I know you will.
You see, that makes me happy too.
I brought my new boss with me.
I didn't dare leave him behind.
Mr Krausemeyer, this is my
brother-in-law Nick Graham.
Nick, this is Mr Krausemeyer.
My new boss .. I hope.
Mr Graham, I am delighted
to make your acquaintance.
Thank you.
I hope you get everything you want
as easy as you can get a job with me.
You know, I'm going to find it hard
to keep from falling in love with you.
Say, why didn't you meet
me forty years ago?
Excuse me, please.
But I forget you weren't around then.
Now I must see the blushing bride.
A great girl. Deserves the best.
- Yes.
You know, I feel already that
I've known her since infantry.
Infancy.
That's what I said. That's
when I've known her.
Lots of luck, Kay.
- Thanks, dear.
I don't have to tell you that you've
married the swell-est guy in the world.
I know it.
- See that you deserve him.
My darling.
How about that new job?
Now listen.
It's better we don't
talk about that now.
You come to my office tomorrow.
Right?
Johnny, come here.
Tell your mother not to worry.
Tell her it isn't important.
It never was important.
- Alright.
Good morning, Mr Morgan.
You want to see me?
Yes, Mr Graham. Sit down, won't you?
- Thank you.
You know, ever since you were married,
you've come to work later and later.
Yes I know.
I've been keeping late hours.
I've been thinking.
Perhaps you might enjoy a vacation?
No thank you.
I'd rather go on with my work.
You like your work, Mr Graham?
Well.
I see that you do, yes.
Let me ask you something else.
Do you like New York?
Yes. I was born and raised here.
So was I.
And I really love it.
As a matter of fact,
I love it so much that ..
Whenever I hear of anyone
moving out, why ..
I simply can't
understand it, that's all.
You know, Mr Graham, there's been an
awful lot people leave New York lately.
Now here is Mr Hedges:
'Moved out of town. Address unknown'.
Mr Lowell.
'Out of town. Address unknown'.
Mr Brown .. just the same.
Just think of it. All these people move
out of town without leaving any address.
Doesn't that strike you
as being kind-of funny?
No .. I mean, yes it does.
I never thought of that.
I thought of it .. and it burned me up.
I sort-of checked up on it.
Would you believe it, Mr Graham?
I found that every one of these
people had moved back to New York.
And were all living at
the same addresses.
That's also kind of funny, huh?
- 'Odd' might be a better word.
Thanks for supplying it.
Now I'll tell you ..
- I'll tell you in 2 words: 'I'm fired'.
I'm glad you brought the subject up. I
never liked the job and never liked you.
You don't mind my being frank?
All I hope is that someday I'll have the
pleasure of serving a summons on you.
That's one time I when I
won't be chicken-hearted.
Say, Miss Reynolds, you
know what time it is?
Half past seven. You ought to have been
home long ago. Why are you here so late?
I'm sorry, Mr Krausemeyer.
I didn't know it was so late.
Look .. my first sketch.
- That will be fine.
Tomorrow is plenty of time.
- Alright.
By the way, are you still living
with your husband and her sister?
I mean with your sister and his husband.
Your .. husband .. his?
Where are you living now?
I'm living with them until I
can afford a place of my own.
Yes, I see. We'll fix that.
I'll raise your wages.
- No, I won't take it.
You've spoiled me ever
since I've been here.
That's alright.
Anyhow, no more work tonight.
Come on, skedaddle.
Alright.
Well, Hans.
I didn't expect you back so soon.
How are you? Welcome home.
- Glad to be home. How's Mama?
She's fine. Just the same as always.
I still have my dyspeptic, but I'm fine.
- How's business?
Business is fine.
Since you've been away.
I'm so unsatisfied with
your work on the road.
Why is that?
Do you realize you come back with
orders like a pocket address book?
And an expense account
like a Webster's dictionary.
Listen, Pop. Something is wrong with
that line of ours. It just don't work.
Wait a minute. What's
the matter with our line?
I don't know. I could have
sold lots of orders, except ..
Never mind about the orders.
What's the matter with the line?
I could have sold at least four gross
to that Cinderella shop in Des Moines.
If the brim had turned down
instead of up. Like that.
You are talking about the
Krausemeyer Sweet-16 number?
Exactly. Now look, Pop.
If the brim was turned down
all the way round like this.
Instead of up it would be a cinch.
There's no end to what I can do.
Wait a minute.
I don't care whether you don't
sell forty gross in Des Moines ..
Or if you don't sell four
gross in Des Moines.
Spartenburger & Company have
a model called the 'Croquet'.
Croquet?
Yeah. And their brim turns down.
- Exactly. Now look, Pop.
See if I'm not right.
How do you like that?
Maybe it's better down.
But it stays up.
Just to make a liar of
Spartenburger & Company.
'Krausemeyer Sets The Style'.
That's been our slogan for years.
The customers buy from Spartenburger.
That's been their slogan for years.
Hans .. you know, at times you
abuse the privilege of being dumb.
From your sales, whether the brim turns
up or down we still owe ourselves money.
Miss .. Miss Reynolds, I
want to ask you something.
Now look .. let me show you.
That's the Croquet.
- Croquet.
Shut up.
Now look.
Now that is the Sweet-16.
Now I ask you, which is it?
I think you're both wrong.
You see, that's what I told you.
- Come here. This is what we should do.
Look. Wait a minute, don't tear it.
That's an expensive hat.
I know, but I'm trying to show you.
- I know.
Now look.
Do you like that?
By golly, she's right.
You are right. Excuse me.
I didn't introduce my son.
This is my son, Hans.
He thinks he's a songwriter,
but really he's a dumber for the firm.
He means 'drummer'.
- Don't be so sure about that, either.
Whether he's writing songs or selling
hats, he still has foolish ideas.
You know, your father does
nothing else but brag about you.
I hope to see a lot of
you while I'm in town.
I might even find time
to write a song about you.
Yeah. Never mind, don't get personal.
Time for us all to go home.
Miss Reynolds.
Would you like to take
supper with us tonight?
I'd love to, but I can't.
I wish you could.
- I wish I could too.
Goodnight. Thanks so much.
Goodnight.
- Goodnight.
I got it.
- You got what?
Listen to this.
When my baby walks down the street.
Baby, da doo, da doo dah ..
That's what you mean as a 'special'.
Hello Nick.
Hello.
Gosh .. where's the celebration?
I don't know. I missed it.
Where's Kay?
Club Freeland. Whatever that is.
It's a swanky place. Go there
for cocktails and stay for breakfast.
Are you joining her?
- I'm supposed to.
Are you going?
- Uhuh. Got a lot of work to do.
You're lucky.
Nick, I don't like the sound of that.
Come on, tell me what's happened.
Nothing .. just lost my job, that's all.
Nick, I'm sorry.
It just had to come now.
What happened?
- My boss likes New York.
I don't get you.
It doesn't make any difference.
I wouldn't have more of
that if I were you, Nick.
It's like dynamite when you're down.
I hope I can depend on that.
Maybe I'll go after all.
Cigarettes?
Have a cigarette?
- No thanks.
How about an olive?
- I'd like that.
That's the girl.
Cigarettes?
- Yes, but not filters. Plain please.
This is a real nice party. Smart people.
- You never see anything else here.
I wonder how my husband is doing.
He's still on his feet.
- That's some consolation.
By the way, I have an
idea about him and you.
Something interesting?
- I don't know.
I'll talk to him about it now.
Will you excuse me?
Hurry back.
Hello Harry.
- Hello.
Look after Mrs Graham for me will you.
- I surely will. How are you, Kay?
Fine. Have a drink.
- Yes. What are you drinking?
A Standby.
Looks good. Bill, one just like it.
Do you mind if I join you?
- Uhuh.
How's the groom doing?
- Fine.
Have a little drink?
Two Sidecars, please.
- Make it two.
Are you in the street?
Indeed I am. I walked several today.
I mean Wall Street.
- No. I didn't get that far.
I may make it tomorrow.
- I'm afraid I don't understand.
It's alright. Skip it.
I beg your pardon.
I didn't mean to offend.
I was trying to find out what
business you're in. That's all.
I've a place for you in my
office if you're interested.
I'm sorry.
I'm afraid I'm a little bit tight.
I don't even remember your name.
My name is Courtland.
Harry Courtland.
Courtland? I've heard that name before.
I was a friend of your wife's father.
Perhaps that's where you heard it?
Sure. Sorry. I forgot.
- Quite alright.
Yes.
Mr Courtland is the friend who refused
to help my father when he needed it.
Perhaps that's where you heard it, Nick?
Good evening, sir.
- Evening, Martha.
Where's everyone?
- On the terrace, sir.
Mrs Graham is dressing.
- Thank you.
I'll sign for that.
- Yes, Mr Graham.
Will there be anything else, sir?
- No thank you.
Thank you, sir.
Hello.
- Hello, dear.
Something new?
- Uhuh. You like it?
I like the back.
- Thank you.
Hurry up and dress me. Harry's
found a new cocktail lounge.
Why does he bother to find new ones?
They all taste, look and smell alike.
What's the matter? Don't you feel well?
- I feel alright.
But Kay ..
Yes?
Couldn't we cut down
on expenses a little?
Yes, I suppose so. Why?
Because we need to.
I thought you were making lots of money.
I am. But not as much as we spend.
You know, I'm buying
all the shares I can.
Shares of what?
Midland Petroleum.
You know, Harry's stock.
Nick. I wouldn't do that.
Why not? It's a good investment.
I just wouldn't. That's all.
I'm selling it, Kay.
That's very well.
Sell it, but let other suckers buy it.
What are you hinting at?
Nothing.
Forget about it.
He didn't exactly win the fourth race,
but he was so behind he won the fifth.
So it goes that we had all
our money riding on him too.
Hello everybody.
- Hello, Nick.
Can I see you a moment, Harry?
- Sure.
You don't mind, do you?
- Not at all.
Excuse me.
- Certainly.
Let me do that, dear.
Make that two, will you? Drinks I mean.
Ginger ale or soda?
- Soda for me, thank you.
What's on your mind?
Harry, how far are you
into Midland Petroleum?
Every dollar I own. Why?
Then why didn't Kay want me to buy it?
I'll bite, madam.
Why don't you want him to buy it?
I don't know.
Now, there's an excellent reason.
You want to unload?
I think not if that's the
only reason she has.
After this, don't call my customers
'suckers'. I don't like it.
My grammar's bad, Nick.
That's all. Forget it.
Okay.
Will you hurry up and drink?
Be back in a minute.
Tell a woman a secret and ..
- That isn't fair.
I'll tell Nick when to unload, so stop
worrying. He'll make money out of it.
What a lovely gown.
- Thank you.
New, isn't it?
- Yes.
Expensive too.
It must be marvelous to be
able to afford such luxury.
I never worried about
the cost of anything.
Then you're not to mind how
much money your husband makes.
Selling my stock.
Ain't you working today?
What's the matter?
You don't feel good?
Krause .. do you ever play the market?
The stock market?
- Hmm.
I should say not.
Pinochle and credit,
that's what does for me.
Why?
- I just wondered.
Some stock I'd like to find out about.
I see .. that's it, yeah?
- Hmm.
We'd better find out about it right
away so we get some work done.
Mike Reid across the street.
His wife buys our hats.
Hello Minnie. Minnie, give me
Mr Reid at Reid & Jackson's.
Yes, Reid & Jackson.
Stockbreakers, er ..
Stockbrokers. Yeah.
What is the name of the stock?
Midland Petroleum
Properties Incorporated.
Midland Petro Prop ..?
- No, no.
Midland Petroleum
Properties Incorporated.
Midlands Petroleum ..
- Properties ..
I bet that stock ain't any good
with a name like that.
Hello .. Mr Reid?
This is Krausemeyer.
Yeah. Krausemeyer's hats.
That's it. How are you, Mike?
Say, Mr Reid, I wonder if you could give
me a little information about a stock.
Called Midden Properties ..
- No, no.
Midland Petroleum
Properties Incorporated.
Midland Petroleum
Properties Incorporated.
Midland Petroleum
Properties Incorporation.
Ated.
Ate .. what?
- Incorporated.
Yes .. 'Incorporated'.
Petroleum Properties ..?
Yeah, that's it.
You said it right. That's it.
A friend of mine wants to sell me some.
You don't say so.
Well, you've confounded me.
What did he say?
Excuse .. just a minute please.
He said he ain't no friend of mine or
he wouldn't try and sell them to me.
Here, give it to me.
Hello .. this is Mr Krausemeyer's
secretary speaking.
Can you tell me what's wrong with it?
No, I can't.
And we don't give out guesses.
The company was started
by Harry Courtland.
I'd advise you to look
into it before you buy.
There's a rumor he's being investigated
by the department of justice.
I see.
Thanks so much, Mr Reid.
No good? No good, huh?
Did you buy some?
- No.
Then what are you worried about?
Nick.
What's Nick got to do with it?
He's mixed up in it.
I'm afraid he's going to
get into serious trouble.
Hello, Harry.
- Hello, Nick.
I'm glad you dropped in. Sit down.
You've made remarkable
progress in the last two months.
Where did you make all these contacts?
I met a lot them when I
was with Morgan & Price.
Some are friends of my family.
I see.
You took on quite a
bit of Midland yourself.
All I could .. perhaps a little
more than I could afford.
I don't know.
Excuse me.
Hello.
Well.
Is there someone in your office?
Hmm .. and how.
Yeah, you'd be surprised.
Sit down, Nick.
Oh.
Yes, I'll call you later .. goodbye.
Blond or brunette?
- Brunette.
I must be on my way.
Keep up the good work, Nick.
- Say, I haven't even started yet.
Krause.
Be a honey and let me
have the afternoon off.
Sure, alright. You might as well.
You're no good around here anyway.
You're a pet. I love you. Thank you
so much and I'll make up for it.
You bet you will.
- With love and kisses.
Goodbye darling.
- Goodbye, sweet.
Don't forget.
- How could I?
You startled me.
I didn't know you were here.
I was in my room.
What time did you get home?
- About two o'clock.
Don't stand there staring.
What are you going to do?
I should slap your face.
Don't act like a schoolgirl.
Will you have a cocktail?
No.
I was just going out.
Were you?
There's a few things I'd like to say
to you, Kay. But somehow I can't.
What goes on here?
Pat slapped me.
I think she's out of her mind.
Slapped you?
What do you mean? Get out of
here and stay out. You hear me?
Yes, I hear you.
You're shaking.
Now, what brought on this
demonstration of sisterly love?
It was my fault.
I slapped her first.
You slapped her?
Where are you going?
- To apologize.
I'll get the rest of my things
when you two are out.
Pat, I'm awfully sorry.
Please don't go.
I know Nick didn't mean what he said.
Don't you talk to me about Nick.
You have the wrong idea
about this afternoon.
I didn't tell you my idea.
So, unless it's the same as yours ..
Listen, Kay.
Nick was a nice person when he met you.
Why don't you keep him that way?
Why don't you get out of this
place and forget about money?
Start the way you should
have in the first place?
Why don't you tell Nick that
Courtland and his stock are crooked?
Harry is going to tip Nick
off when to sell his stock.
Did Courtland tell Nick that?
No. He told me.
- Did you tell Nick?
No.
- Why?
Because ..
If Nick knew the stock was
worthless he wouldn't sell it?
You knew, yet you let Nick do something
he'd hate just to get a lot of money.
Hans, another piece of apple strudel?
- Yes. Thanks mom.
Listen, Krause. I'm asking your help
to save Nick from a prison term.
Any day the department
of justice men can ..
Pat, listen. Don't walk across the
bridge until you come to where it is.
We won't worry about that too much yet.
It's the only way I can think of.
Buy back the stock from them sold to.
Then they can't make a complaint.
Now, Papa. Give her the
money and let her do it.
Mama, please.
You run the house,
I run the business, eh?
Haven't you never been in love
with somebody you couldn't have?
You don't catch me that way.
I married the one I was in love with.
I know it's a lie, but it sounds
so good when he says it.
Now let's all go in the parlor.
Now listen, Pat.
I wouldn't worry about it.
You know, that's the great
problem with all of us.
We make a molehill out of a mountain.
- Now listen, Krause.
If you loan me the money, I'm sure
I can get it back from Courtland.
Yeah, I know .. but how?
By selling him our stock.
But why would Courtland buy
it when he knows it's no good?
Quiet.
- Well.
Someone will ring up his office.
And start a rumor that
an oilwell has come in.
A big gusher.
Yeah .. then he'll try
and find out all about it.
Before he has time,
an oilman from the west ..
A very shrewd businessman.
Comes into his office
with a big block of stock.
He would never buy it.
Hans, pay attention.
Help your father decide.
Alright.
Now listen, Pop.
Suppose the oilman is there not to sell.
But to buy control of the
company from Courtland.
Don't you think Courtland
would say to himself ..
'An oilwell came in. And those crooks
in the field are trying to swindle me'.
He might.
A crook always thinks
everybody else is crooked.
Wouldn't he try and buy our
stock thinking it's valuable?
What do you think of the scheme, Krause?
It sounds so good, I think there
must be something bad about it.
Listen.
How would Courtland know that
our man could pay for the stock?
I've thought of that.
Our man could have a certified check
for about a hundred thousand dollars.
Which is enough to buy control.
A hundred thousand dollars?
- Sure.
Where's he going to get it?
Ah .. that's where you come in.
I knew it. I walked under
a ladder this morning.
But he doesn't have to
give Courtland the check.
Just to use as evidence to show
that he can pay .. to bluff with.
Ah well .. that sounds better.
That sounds wonderful.
Well, Mama. $100,000 checks
don't go by sound, you know.
They go by writing.
You're a real businesswoman,
Mrs Krausemeyer.
Sure I am .. who do you
think Hans gets it from?
Hans .. wake up.
Excuse me .. would you mind
if I asked one little question?
Certainly not.
Of course it's none of my business.
After all, I'm only the fellow
that puts up the money.
Sure, go ahead.
But who is this shrewd businessman,
who's full of oil with a stock of block?
Witt a .. with a ..
With a block of stock that
we can trust with $100,000?
Why, Hans.
Hans?
Him a businessman?
But you told everybody
he's a good businessman.
Alright, Mama. I told you that to
keep peace and quiet in the family.
I can do it alright.
What have I got to do?
Listen, Hans.
What you do is very simple.
It has to be twice as simple.
- Hush, Papa.
Hans.
You come into the office.
You're a big oil man.
But I'm not. I'm a travelling salesman.
I know, but it's just pretence, Hans.
Here.
You come in.
You sit down.
You look smart but you don't say much.
The less the better.
Now Courtland sells the stock
for two dollars a share.
You offer him three, for complete
control of the company. Got that?
That's easy.
- Then he asks you ..
'What do you know of
Midland Properties'?
What do I say?
- Nothing.
I tell him I know nothing about it.
I've never even heard of it.
No, no Hans.
You don't tell him anything.
Now he'll probably offer you
four dollars a share for your stock.
Then what do you do?
- I take it.
No, you don't.
You just laugh at the offer.
- I laugh .. ha, ha, ha.
Hans, please. Laugh.
Don't gurgle that way. Just laugh.
He's sure to think the
property is very valuable.
He'll offer five dollars a share.
Then I'll laugh .. ha, ha, ha, ha.
Shush, Mama. Will you please
refrain yourself for a minute now.
Now, Hans.
You don't laugh at that offer.
You say to Courtland: 'Mr Courtland'.
'As long as we can't get together
on a deal, and you won't sell ..'
'I sell you my stock'.
Then what do I do?
- You bring the check home to father.
That's where I laugh. Ha, ha, ha, ha.
That's the best news I heard yet.
Mama, we make a little profit, you see.
- Profit.
Krause, I'll pay interest on your loan
and reimburse Nick for what he'll lose.
That's fine. The whole thing sounds
pretty good. There's only one catch.
What's that?
That laughing jackass over there.
He'll get it all wrong, sure.
Hello Pat.
Hello Nick.
Let's shake and make up.
I feel foolish, the way I acted.
It was nothing, Nick.
I've forgot about it.
But have you forgiven me?
Of course or I wouldn't have phoned.
Sit down.
I'm even going to do you a good turn.
- Me?
Hmm.
I've got Krausemeyer interested
in Midland Properties.
Say, that's great. I could stand
to sell a few more shares.
You need the money?
Well, you know the way
that Kay's spending it.
Yes I know.
Nick .. what makes you
think the stock is good?
I know it is. It's sound. One of the
biggest oilfields in the country.
Who told you so?
- Harry Courtland.
He's seen the field and he's
developed a lot of oil wells.
That's fine.
But Krausemeyer is a very cautious man.
Before he does a thing, he wants to know
about the people who are interested.
After all, he doesn't
know Harry Courtland.
Don't you see it would be easier if I
could tell him who the stockholders are.
That's a bit irregular,
Pat. Ordinarily I ..
Nick, you know you can trust me.
I suppose it's alright.
Take care of these, Pat.
Don't worry Nick .. I will.
I asked you a question.
Harry, your question was a little vague.
I'd hate to ..
Darling, I'm simply trying to
get you to correct a mistake.
And what was this mistake?
Have you forgotten your wedding?
So much has happened since
then it makes me forget.
Don't look now. Your husband is
behind you. He'll remember.
Hello Kay.
Have a nice time at the party?
Yes.
I looked all over for you.
You weren't at your
apartment last night.
No. Sit down, Nick.
I was out of town on business.
What's on your mind?
- Plenty.
It's about Midland Petroleum.
- Yes, well what about it?
I ran into an old customer yesterday
and he told me he had sold his stock.
So I called up some of the rest,
and they've all sold for a profit.
I thought it was something important.
Did you find out who's buying it?
An oilman from out West
buying through Wade & Jackson.
They won't tell me who.
That's nothing to get excited about.
- Then maybe this is.
Someone called his secretary to ask if
it's true we'd bought into a well.
A gusher.
Will you excuse me, please?
- Certainly, Harry. Business first.
Waiter.
- Let me take care of it.
No thank you. Check, please.
- But I insist.
As there's so little I can
do for my wife anymore.
Surely, you won't mind
my buying her lunch?
Alright.
Goodbye Kay. Nice to bump into you.
- Goodbye, Harry.
So long, Nick.
- So long.
Well, Mrs Graham.
This is quite a break for me.
You're looking lovely.
- Thank you, Mr Graham.
Nick .. I hope you don't mind
my having luncheon with Harry.
My darling, why should I?
I don't know. I just thought that ..
Lately it seems you've been
a little jealous of poor Harry.
My dear.
When a man trusts a woman ..
Jealousy is out of the question.
I'm so glad.
Check, please.
Extraordinary chap, Harry.
I wonder why he never married.
- Perhaps he never found the right girl.
Something tells me he has.
I'll get you a cab.
- Thank you.
If you guys think you can put anything
over on me, you're screwy, you're crazy.
No. Make that 'you're mistaken'.
I own control of that stock and I've no
intention of selling a single share.
I'll sign that. Now take a
wire to Hoskins at the ranch.
Dear Fred.
Bird-dog over to Midland field and
report to me by wire immediately ..
Of any activity to derricks.
[ Telephone ]
Mr Courtland's office.
Why did you want to speak to him?
I'm not in to anyone but Waite
and the Telegraph Company.
It's an oilman from the West.
Courtland speaking.
This is Mr Krausemeyer.
Yes. What can I do for you?
Say you just got in from the oilfield.
- I just got in from the oilfields.
Tell him you found an oilwell sprouting
so much gasoline it's a regular geyser.
No, Krause. Tell him you're interested
in accumulating more stock.
I'm interested in accumulating
more stock.
You're talking through your hand.
- You're talking through your hand.
I'm interested in
accumulating more stock.
Mr Krausemeyer, I'm afraid
we have no more stock to sell.
But I would be very happy indeed to have
a chat with you if you care to drop in.
Yes, I'll be in all afternoon.
Goodbye.
He's the bird who started this.
If he's as dumb as he sounds,
I'll buy his stock.
Now send those wires.
- Yes, sir.
Now. Now listen, Hans.
Be careful what you do with this.
It's a certificate check for $100,000.
- A certified check.
Don't contradict me, I know what kind
of check it is. Look, take it like that.
Put it in the upstairs pocket of
your vest like that. And cover it.
See?
Now, when he says he wants to
see the check .. do that quick.
No, no, no.
- Are you going to butt in here?
Listen, Krause. Please let me ..
- It's my check, please.
I know it is. Listen.
Just act as if $100,000
doesn't mean a thing to you.
Impossible. He ain't a
good enough actor.
Hans, just do as we rehearsed.
That's all.
Here we are.
Hans, is that The Croquet
or the Sweet-16?
Neither.
Never mind, never mind.
I know what it is.
Well, Mr Courtland.
I guess us critters could get
together on a deal alright.
Listen, Hans. Will you hurry over there
before you forget what to say. Come on.
Don't worry, partner.
I never forget anything.
Hey! Here, wait a minute.
You forgot the stock report.
Hans. Look, you fool.
You forgot the stock report.
Now remember this.
When he wants to sell, you want to buy.
When he wants to ..
Now wait. This ain't a song.
When he wants to buy, you want to sell.
I know, I know. When he offers me four
dollars a share I'm supposed to laugh.
Don't worry about it. It'll be alright.
- Don't worry?
I'll bet ten dollars to a shoe
button he gets it wrong.
Don't worry, Pop.
It's going to be alright.
Well, even if it is.
It will be the longest day of my life.
He's got a brain like a
mosquito. I don't know why.
Come right in, Mr Krausemeyer.
Sit down. Make yourself at home.
- Thanks, partner.
Have a cigar?
- Nope. I don't smoke.
You're interested in oil, I hear?
- Yep. That's right.
Now, what's the lowdown on all this?
Did a gusher come in?
I don't know nothing about a
gusher, except what I heard.
What did you hear?
If it's all the same to you,
I'd rather not talk about that.
They won't let you talk, huh?
That's right.
They told me not to say nothing.
Now, let's stop all this horseplay.
You're a smart businessman.
You came here to buy
more stock, didn't you?
That's right. I'm accumulating control.
That's impossible.
You mean, you ain't aiming to sell?
- Certainly not.
But I'll buy all the stock you have.
What do you want for it?
First, you make me an offer.
I'll give you three dollars a share.
I'll give you three dollars a share.
I'll make it four.
What's the matter with you?
I'm laughing at your offer.
It's no laughing matter, Mr Krausemeyer.
I'm giving you a tremendous profit.
I don't know nothing about profit.
I'll make you a final offer
of five dollars a share.
Here is a certified check.
To seal the bargain.
It's nothing.
You have considerable money behind you.
We won't go into that. Either you
buy my stock, or I'll buy yours.
I'll give you six dollars a share.
That's my last offer.
Okay, partner. It's a deal.
- Great. I'll give you my check.
Yes?
I thought I left orders not
to be disturbed .. who?
Alright. Put them on.
Listen, Harry.
I've got a hot tip. The Federal dicks
are liable to move in on you any minute.
What's that?
If I were you, I'd take it
on the lam. Quick.
Thanks, Ben.
Mr Krausemeyer .. I changed
my mind. I accept your offer.
You drive too hard a bargain for me.
Now, here are twenty
thousand shares of Midland.
At five dollars a share,
that is $100,000.
Which is the exact amount of your check.
Not only that, I'll throw in the office
and all the furnishings. They're yours.
You can do with them what you
like. Lock, stock and barrel.
I enjoyed this little
business proposition.
I hope we meet again at a future date
and have an even more profitable deal.
Goodbye and good luck.
- Okay, partner.
Congratulations.
Boy, did I smart that monkey.
I'm getting worried.
I wonder what keeps him so long?
- Don't worry. No news is good news.
I really put it over that time.
I knew you would.
You wouldn't be a
Krausemeyer if you didn't.
Come on. Tell us about it.
How much did he give you?
Let me see his check.
Check?
Did he pay you in cash?
- He didn't give me any cash.
No check and no cash?
I'm getting weak.
Where is my check?
The certificate check?
I showed you in my vest
how not to give it.
Hans .. didn't you bring
that back with you?
How could I when I used it
to buy these stocks with?
You gave him my check?
To buy more stock?
They were only five dollars a share
and he was giving me the office.
Krause. It's all my fault.
Now I'm in the oil business.
I'm an oil king.
Me and Rockefeller. Only Rockefeller
has got oil, and all I've got is this.
But he gave me the office
and all the furnishings.
Pop, there's no telling what the
office fixtures alone are worth.
Are they worth $100,000?
Well.
They might be.
Alright. Come on, let's go and
find out something about it.
Listen Krause. It's all
my fault, honey. Really.
Now listen darling. That's alright.
What is .. is.
It's my fault for not being a bachelor.
And this?
This is what I get for my $100,000.
But Pop, it's first-class
office equipment.
But I don't need it.
I don't want it. I got enough.
All these fancy things
around here. What is ..?
What's that?
- A Dictaphone.
A what?
- A Dictaphone.
You see, I can't even play it.
But you don't play it, Pop.
You talk to it.
I ain't speaking to it now anyway.
These things here look like
a couple of hand organs.
Look, what do you call this, here?
- That's tape.
It's what?
- Tickertape.
It may tickle you.
But it don't tickle me.
You .. you dummkopf.
Listen, Pop. For years I've
been trying to get ahead.
And by golly you need one.
Why don't you use the one you got?
I couldn't get 75 dollars
for this whole shebang.
Hello Pat. What are you doing here?
- I've been searching for you all over.
Nick .. I've made the most
awful mess of things.
Now what is this?
Pardon me, Mr Graham.
A telegram for you.
Thank you .. excuse me, Pat.
- Alright.
Nick .. what's the matter?
'Kay and I are on our way to Canada'.
'Advise you leave town immediately,
before involved in serious trouble'.
'Kay sends regards'.
It hurts doesn't it, Nick.
What are you going to do about it?
Nothing .. now, what is your trouble?
I persuaded Krausemeyer to
buy back the stock you sold.
Courtland sold him the whole company.
But why?
To save you from going to prison.
I heard the department of justice
is investigating Harry Courtland.
The department of justice?
So that's why Courtland ..
Where is Krausemeyer?
- In there.
First thing is to get him out
of trouble. Come on, Pat.
Bring your book in, Miss Kirby.
I'll apologize later, Mr Krausemeyer.
Now we've no time to lose.
I lost everything else.
I might as well lose time.
Take dictation.
'I Karl Krausemeyer, assign to N. Graham
all my equity in Midland Petroleum'.
I give it all to you?
You can't have a thing to do with the
company when the DOJ men get here.
What?
- Let me ..
Quiet.
- The door.
Stall.
We'd like to see the head of the firm.
- He isn't here.
When will he be here?
Well.
Not for several weeks.
That's right. That's right,
gentlemen. As a matter of fact.
As a matter of fact, he may not be
back for a few years. You can't tell.
Where is he?
He .. went .. to San Francisco.
San Francisco .. out
on the Pacific coast.
Now, if you'll be a bit more definite,
we'll be glad to send a plane for him.
Well, if we knew exactly.
We'd be very pleased to inform you.
Wouldn't we, Mr Abernathy?
- Sure, Mr Grimshaw. A pleasure.
You see.
This is Mr Whistlesmith.
He's a stock gambler.
How do you do?
- Smart fellow.
One day he is a 'bull' and the
next day you can't 'bear' him.
That's a riddle.
Is Harry Courtland in?
- No, he's not.
Where is he?
I don't know.
Who's in charge of your
office during his absence?
You mean Mr Krausemeyer?
- Krausemeyer. Come on O'Brien.
I'm sorry. He's busy.
- Not too busy to see us.
But he told me ..
Which one of you men is Krausemeyer?
What's your business here?
- Department of Justice.
J-Men.
- G-Men.
Excuse me.
I'm more responsible than he is.
- Wait a minute.
You see, it's all my fault.
That's alright. That's my daughter.
How do you do?
Just a minute.
So you're Graime?
Yes, you see ..
- Then this must be Courtland.
No, this is Mr Whistlesmith.
- I've heard that one before.
No. Excuse me, but I made
that name up myself.
Thought so.
Are these men your gang?
No. We thought they were from the DOJ.
We're from the Civic Refinery.
Look here, there ought to be ..
Are you going to resist arrest?
- Not with his glasses on.
Come on. You're invited to headquarters.
- Thank you. Thank you.
Let's get going.
- Sorry, Pat.
Well.
I think I'll get a bite of lunch.
No you won't. Let's go.
- I'm hungry.
I know it. Come on.
Was that Krausemeyer?
Yes, I'm afraid it was.
'Federal Detectives', my eye.
I'll bet they were from the
Golden State Petroleum Corp.
If they get Krausemeyer alone,
we won't even have a chance to bid.
Bid for what?
- We want to buy Krausemeyer's company.
We'd give him 100% profit.
But you see, our company
wants his property.
Those Golden State
thieves beat us again.
That's what you think. Come on.
Bring me a pitcher of ice-water please.
What?
Ain't you one of the bellboys here?
Hey, where do you think you are?
This is a jail, and I'm the keeper.
Excuse me. Excuse me please.
Well, how is business?
Rooms all rented and everything?
Sir, we could use fifty more
of them, if we had them.
Hey, listen.
Are you married?
- Sure, I'm married.
Listen.
If you do me just one little favor.
I'll send your wife one
of our Sweet-16 models.
I'll fix it so you have an extra
room for another customer.
Say, what are you driving at?
All I want you to do.
Is to put me in next door.
With my son .. that's my son in there.
I want to be near him.
I want to be where I can get
my hands on him. That's all.
Pop .. what have I done now?
Nothing.
Not a thing.
You only spend $100,000 of mine
buying stock certificates I don't want.
And an office I haven't even got.
Anyway, we can prove
you don't belong in here.
You ain't got to prove it. I admit it.
I know I don't belong in here
and I know where I belong.
I belong in a lunatic asylum and I
should be dressed in a straitjacket.
So I can't sign any more checks.
Here's an order for their release.
This will have to be countersigned.
Just a moment, gentlemen.
- Certainly.
Krause .. you're freed.
Freed?
I got an order for your release.
Did the jury say I ain't guilty?
I explained to the
department of justice.
All you have to do is to pay
back the other stockholders.
That's all I've got to do, eh?
That is .. a good explanation.
Did you also explain what
I'm going to use for money?
These oilmen want to buy the property.
Go and sell it to them, Pop.
So they can take our place in here.
Quiet. Shush.
This is Mr Krausemeyer, gentlemen.
Gentlemen, I'm delighted
to make your acquaintance.
Won't you sit down?
Excuse me.
Excuse me, I forgot
you can't get in here.
Mr Krausemeyer, we want
to buy your company.
Yah? That's very, very nice.
And what will you pay for it?
Let me handle it, Pop. I'm an oilman.
I'll give you four dollars a share.
Ha, ha, ha ..
What's that?
That's ..
That's my Hans. My offspring.
He heard your offer.
I'll give you five dollars a share.
Ha, ha, ha, ha ..
You see how silly that
all sounds to him.
You're giving my son the ha-ha's.
Well .. seven dollars a share.
Ha, ha ..
- Shut up.
That's a deal.
Mr Krausemeyer, I'm sorry you're not
going to be with us any longer.
Yes.
Thank you. That's very nice.
Did you hear what he said?
Now, Mr Krausemeyer.
Before we close this deal, there
is one condition I'd like to make.
Uhoh.
Yeah? A condition, eh?
There's always a fly in the ointment.
What is the condition?
- That son of yours.
He's the kind of a man we would
like to have in our business.
True. Keen, Foresighted.
Now we want him with us.
Him?
Really, I couldn't spare him.
He is the backbone of my business.
I realize that. But we need him too.
Now, we'll .. pay him $200 a week.
You'll pay him $200 a week?
Well, make it $300.
Don't laugh, Pop. It's a deal.
Fine .. fine.
Come over to the office.
We'll sign the contract now.
Thank you.
- Fine.
Good day, Mr Krausemeyer.
- Good day.
Krause, I'm so happy.
You should be.
You're a smart girl.
Mr Krausemeyer.
I don't know how to thank you.
Don't mention it.
You know, I like you.
Really, now. I like you.
There's a vacancy in my business.
Now that my son has turned out
to be an oil can .. an oilman.
How would you like to have his job?
- Nothing I would like better.
I won't say how much I'll pay you.
Because somebody might laugh
and I would have to pay you more.
I've learnt a lesson today.
A man isn't always a jackass
because he laughs like one.
Ladies .. and gentlemen.
It's a great pleasure you're
all here with me tonight.
To help celebrate the great
success of my son, Hans.
Hans .. you should feel proud.
This supper tonight is
a compliment to you.
Krause, that's a great boy you got.
You bet your life. Why wouldn't he be?
He takes after his father.
And what of me?
Am I a nobody in this family?
Listen mother.
I am the walls and the roof.
But you are the foundations.
Pat.
Kay has gone to Paris to get a divorce.
Really? How interesting.
I'd hoped you would .. well, I mean ..
Pat, we've known each other a long time.
Well.
I think we see things quite a bit alike.
Don't you?
- Sure.
Well.
Pat.
Nick .. by any chance are you
trying to tell me you love me?
Uhuh.
- I thought so.
Do you think you can have your mind made
up by the time we get to the corner?
Why the corner?
We've got a street light.
Oh Pat.
..w-g..
What can I do for you?
Does Mr James Reynolds live here?
Yes, but he's rather busy.
You're sure there's nothing
I can take care of?
I am ..
No. I'm sorry. You see, I'm ..
I say. You aren't going to cry, are you?
I'd like to.
You know, if I knew you better
I'd let you cry on my shoulder.
But since I don't, why don't
you just say it and get it over?
Are you a bill-collector?
- No.
You can come in then.
- Wait.
I'm not a bill-collector. I'm worse.
I'm a process-server.
- You're not, really?
Let's see you do it.
- What?
Don't you pull out a paper or something?
Yes, but it has to be put on the
person who's being served.
That person is my father.
Well, come on.
It's a bit quiet with the servants gone.
- Why did they go?
They insisted on being paid.
We're very hospitable anyway.
I was having some caviar.
Would you like some?
Caviar?
- You know. Caviar.
If you sit down, I'll get you some.
Thanks, but I really don't care for any.
I'd like to see Mr Reynolds.
He's in there. He'll be out in a minute.
Then you can pop up and nail him.
Mr Courtland .. James Reynolds speaking.
Hello Reynolds. What's on your mind?
I've been trying to reach you all day,
Harry. You've got to give me an answer.
Sorry. I thought I gave you
my answer last week.
I'm not asking too much of you.
I pulled you through
with half a million.
A hundred thousand would tide me over.
I've got to have it by noon.
I'm sorry, but I can't take a chance
with your present financial conditions.
You mean you .. won't come through?
I see.
I ..
Alright.
Even the caviar is gone.
Did you see father?
No.
Then you didn't serve your papers?
No, I didn't.
You know, you don't look at all like
a proper process-server would.
In fact, you're kind-of cute.
Would you like to marry me?
- I would not.
Suit yourself. I just thought I'd ask.
You see, I'm getting sort
of fed up in this place.
Do you have an apartment?
Yes.
- Do you live alone?
Yes.
I'll come and have dinner
with you some time.
How old are you?
Twenty-five.
- What?
Twenty-three?
- Come again?
Alright, I'll be twenty-one next
month and that's the truth.
If you don't mind, Miss Reynolds,
I came to see your father.
You don't need to get huffy about it.
Can you make coffee?
Well, can you?
- Sure.
That settles it. Come on.
Miss Reynolds, I didn't come to make
coffee. I came here to see your father.
You can make the coffee first.
Quite a kitchen.
- It gives me the creeps.
It's awful having a
kitchen and no servants.
Can you work this thing?
Maybe.
I don't know what you do.
Just push something or pull something.
It's a mystery to me.
- I think this is what you turn.
What?
- You turn that. See ..
It works. You're a genius.
Wait, and I'll get the coffee.
Miss Reynolds asked
me to turn on the stove.
Pat, are you in there?
I got it. On the top shelf and
everything came down with it.
Pat.
We're making coffee. Get the percolator.
- Who's that?
Yes, he came to collect something.
You're a bill-collector?
- No.
Excuse me, this is my sister Kay.
What's your name?
Nicholas Graham.
- Nick came to see father for some cash.
Then you are a bill-collector?
No. No, I'm a process-server.
A summons? Did you serve father?
Not yet.
Kay, will you please help
me find the percolator?
I don't know anything
about this kitchen.
Is this it? Can you make coffee in this?
No, but I can make some in a pan.
- Let's get him a pan then.
This pan is alright.
You got a tablespoon?
- Yes, here's one.
Now, let's see you make it.
You know, you really are marvelous.
What are your other accomplishments?
I am studying law.
- You're going to be a lawyer?
I hope to be.
- I like lawyers. Let's adopt him, Sis'.
Don't pay any attention to her.
- Who has the spoon?
Here it is?
- How much do you make now, Nick?
Fifty dollars a week.
Fifty dollars a week.
Just think of it.
I'm afraid you'll have to learn
how get along on much less.
Don't you be so sure. I'm going to
save this family from starvation yet.
Hey .. did you happen to know that
even this house is mortgaged?
It is? How do you know?
I listened in on an extension.
- You ought to be ashamed of yourself.
I am.
You could even open up a grocery store.
- No, I would eat up all the profits.
We could start a livery
with all the cars we have.
How many have you?
- About seven I think.
Yes, that's right.
That's tough. Why don't you sell some?
I don't think the finance
company would like it.
I knew it was blown or
something. Wait, I'll get ..
It's alright.
Gee, I'm sorry. It was all my fault.
- Pat is enough to distract anybody.
I'm glad you were here.
So am I.
[ Gunshot! ]
Sounded like a shot.
Father.
Pat, what is it?
Ladies and gentlemen, I want you to
realize that these are all Objets d'Art.
Collected by the late James Reynolds.
Thanks.
Here, ladies and gentlemen.
Here is a chair.
A chair that the late
James Reynolds sat in.
What am I offered?
- Three dollars.
Three dollars?
Isn't it a shame? All these lovely
things going. It's such a sacrifice.
Yes.
Say, just a minute. Come here.
Ask the auctioneer to put these up
right away. I want to bid on them.
That isn't for sale.
Why not? Did you buy it already?
- No. It just isn't for sale.
My dear young lady, don't ..
Don't talk such nonsense.
We got here a public auction, ain't we?
I don't care nothing about the book.
I'm only interested in these sketches.
See, that's my business. Hats.
I'd like to know the
artist that made these.
I know the artist.
You know where he lives?
- Yes.
Has he got a telephone number?
Is he in the telephone book?
Really, I am .. I am serious.
I would like to meet this man.
- I think I can arrange it.
What's your name?
You wouldn't remember. Wait.
I'll write it down for you here.
Karl .. Krausemeyer.
How is my hand? Can you decipher that?
Sure.
Please now, don't just say yes.
Please have the artist call.
You won't forget will you?
- No. I won't forget.
Splendid. What is your name?
- Patricia Reynolds.
Patricia ..
Your father.
I'm .. I'm so sorry.
It's alright.
I wish I could tell you how
I feel about all of this.
Thanks a lot. As long as I know you're
sorry, you don't have to tell me.
I'm not really sorry for you.
About the sale I mean.
You're not?
- Certainly I'm not.
What have you got to worry about?
- Plenty.
I've had everything
I wanted all my life.
If you ask me, that's the worst
thing to happen to a person.
You're quite a philosopher, aren't you?
Yes. I guess I am a bit.
Privation and suffering brings
out the best in people.
Perhaps I don't want to suffer.
A bit of suffering won't hurt anybody.
Suffering brings two
people closer together.
What two people?
Any two people. I mean, well ..
If you had everything
the way you used to ..
There are people who ..
I wonder if maybe we had better go in.
- I shouldn't wonder.
You can't always trust
people at auctions.
Item number 429.
It's being brought
forward for your inspection.
Now this, ladies and gentlemen ..
Gee, it's ghostly and
awful in here, isn't it?
It was a beautiful room
when I first saw it.
You may sit down. We must wait for Pat.
We can't let her see you alone.
Would you like a cigarette?
- That might help.
Thanks .. anyway, the moon is coming up.
I liked it better without the curtains.
Is that Pat?
- It looks like her.
Pat.
- Yep?
Where have you been?
Just looking around for
things that aren't there.
Nice of you to look after Kay, Nick.
It's just that I ..
- I know.
Give me a cigarette, will you?
Thanks.
Fun going to the Poorhouse, isn't it?
- You're not going to the Poorhouse.
I'll have to look in.
Thanks.
That's funny.
- What?
I was going to turn on the radio.
That's all.
Someone will have the surprise
of their lives when they try to play it.
Why?
- I broke the tubes in it.
Pat, you didn't?
- I did.
You don't carry a harmonica
around with you, Nick?
No, I'm sorry.
- Not even a bass fiddle?
No.
Looks like a quiet evening.
I forgot.
I hid some things in the cellar.
Nick.
Don't propose to Kay while I'm gone.
Because you know I want you.
Kay.
That looks much more comfortable.
It does, doesn't it.
Of course, we really should be going.
Where are you going? I mean,
what are you planning on doing?
We still have a few friends left.
Fred Barton and his wife have
offered to let us use their penthouse.
Do you think two people can
live on fifty dollars a week?
That's what you make, isn't it?
- Uhuh.
I've heard of it being done.
You can get a fine little apartment
for 45 dollars a month.
How much does that leave?
- 4 times 50 is ..
What's the 4 for?
- Weeks in a month.
Sometimes there are 5 pay days.
That's right. Five times 50 is ..
On the other hand.
If we only count four, then the
fifth will come as a nice surprise.
That's right.
4 times 50 is 200 dollars a month.
That's a lot of money.
200 minus 45 leaves 155 dollars.
Do groceries cost much?
- Practically nothing.
Pat says with the right kind of mind,
you can get excited over a cut of lamb.
You think you have that kind of a mind?
- I don't know.
I've never done any marketing.
Would you go with me?
- Would I? Every Saturday night.
Would you carry the basket?
- Sure, I'd carry the basket.
You know .. it might be fun.
It will be fun.
[ Crying noises ]
Is that you, Patricia?
- No.
Don't call me Patricia.
- What's the matter with you?
I can't say.
I'd like to see Mr Krausemeyer please.
- He's very busy. What is it?
I have some sketches to show him.
We aren't interested in sketches.
But Mr Krausemeyer is. He sent for me.
What's the name?
- Patricia Reynolds.
Hello? What is it?
Never mind. Don't tell me. I'm busy.
A girl here says you sent for her.
- Tell him we met at the ..
I didn't send for any girl.
I'm in a business conference.
Go and get away. Ring me off.
Don't bother me.
I am sorry.
But .. he sent for me.
He won't see you.
Yes?
- Come in, Miss Brown.
Yes, sir.
I'm telling you Mr Nelson
that I ain't satisfied.
And when Krausemeyer ain't
satisfied, he ain't satisfied.
Very well. I'll take the
sketches back to Albert.
Of course, what we really had in mind ..
- You didn't have nothing in mind.
When you send me a bunch of
sketches of hats like that.
We got the best artists in the business.
- Don't make me laugh.
I don't want photographs.
I want snappy sketches.
The latest art form is
real, live photographs.
Then give me something dead.
Now get out. Bring your artist
here. I'll tell him about it.
Go on. Get out before my
temper gets lost again. Out.
You get out too. Everybody.
I don't want anybody here.
I've never been subjected to
such treatment in all my life.
What I need is new ideas.
It looks like a toadstool.
- Mr Krausemeyer?
Who let you in? Outside please.
I'm busy. Go out.
Mr Krausemeyer, you sent for me.
Here I am.
You're in the wrong place.
I sent for nobody. Please go.
Maybe these will refresh your memory.
- My memory is just ..
Oh yeah.
Sure.
Yeah, now I remember you.
Where's the man who made these sketches?
- I drew them.
You drew?
- Sure.
The other ones too?
- Yes.
My dear young lady .. that's different.
Why didn't you say you wanted to see me?
- Well, I did.
Here. Wait.
Sit down and explain yourself.
Now, listen.
What we need is something new.
Some origination. You understand?
Now you look at these hats here.
Just the same as last year.
That's no good.
- No.
I tell you, Miss .. what's the name?
- Reynolds.
Yeah, Miss Reynolds.
Shakespeare was right when he said you
can fool some people some of the time.
But you can't fool any of the
women any of the time at all.
I'll look through your sketches.
Look.
Mr Krausemeyer, where are your scissors?
Why can't I get something like that?
That's chic you know.
There's something in that.
I could sell twenty gross
of those hats if I had ..
Hey, please. Just a minute.
That's our most expensive felt.
You want new ideas, Mr Krausemeyer,
I'm giving them to you.
I know but ..
- Now look.
Look at that. You like it?
By golly, that's wonderful.
Now, that's what we want.
Something coquettish .. something cool.
You know what I mean?
It's magic.
Surely Miss Reynolds, you
are a regular prestidigitator.
Mr Krausemeyer, what is the time?
That's the kind you see.
Just that little thing.
Half past eleven.
- It's so late. I really must be going.
No, wait. Don't run away now. I want
to talk to you about these sketches.
Mr Krausemeyer, I've
got to go to a wedding.
I'm not interested in weddings.
I'm just interested in your sketches.
Listen. Tell you what I'll do.
- You'll help me tremendously.
I can't go. I can't go.
- Mr Krausemeyer, come along with me.
Mr Krausemeyer, please.
If you'll excuse me, I can't.
I have customers.
Listen, I've got to see four
or five customers today.
I got no time for this monkey-business.
Why not start the wedding sooner?
- If I had, I wouldn't have met you.
I didn't think about that.
Who is getting married?
My sister.
- Your sister?
Congratulations. Is he a nice fellow?
- Nice? He's the man I love.
The man you love? You mean to
say your sister is going to marry ..
You look lovely, Kay.
- Do I?
I don't feel lovely.
I'm terribly nervous.
You've nothing on me.
Marriage is a serious
business, isn't it?
It is for me.
Afraid?
- Positively shaking.
Kay .. shouldn't we start the way we
planned? With our own little place?
Now Nick, will you please
stop worrying about that.
I know, but it seems we're
trespassing on their hospitality.
If Fred is nice enough to let
us use their penthouse ..
Why should we live in a
cheaper place and pay rent?
Hello.
I hope you two aren't starting
this venture with an argument.
Remember when we were first married?
- Stop that, Fred.
Will you tell Nick to stop
worrying about living here.
If we didn't have you, we'd have to
hire a caretaker while we're in Europe.
The only thing I ask is, when you
start throwing things, be reasonable.
Stage your battles in the kitchen.
Don't worry. There won't be
any battles in this family.
No, indeed.
What's the hold up? The minister
is here and we're all ready.
Is Pat here yet?
- No.
If she isn't interested enough to
be on time, why wait for her?
I wonder what's delaying her.
Ca you kids wait in the other room?
I'll be with you in just a moment.
For as much as .. Nicholas and Katharine
have consented together in Holy Wedlock.
I pronounce they are man and wife.
We're too late .. they're married.
That's alright. They're on time.
You know ..
What's the matter?
What are you crying about?
Aren't weddings .. happy?
Not this one.
My feet. I've got to do something.
I congratulate you both and
wish you unending happiness.
Thank you.
What a foot race.
Now, it's my turn.
What do you mean by
deserting us at the altar?
I was out looking for a job, Nick.
Are you happy?
Why wouldn't I be? With the swell-est
little sister in all the world.
I hope you always will be.
Of course, I know you will.
You see, that makes me happy too.
I brought my new boss with me.
I didn't dare leave him behind.
Mr Krausemeyer, this is my
brother-in-law Nick Graham.
Nick, this is Mr Krausemeyer.
My new boss .. I hope.
Mr Graham, I am delighted
to make your acquaintance.
Thank you.
I hope you get everything you want
as easy as you can get a job with me.
You know, I'm going to find it hard
to keep from falling in love with you.
Say, why didn't you meet
me forty years ago?
Excuse me, please.
But I forget you weren't around then.
Now I must see the blushing bride.
A great girl. Deserves the best.
- Yes.
You know, I feel already that
I've known her since infantry.
Infancy.
That's what I said. That's
when I've known her.
Lots of luck, Kay.
- Thanks, dear.
I don't have to tell you that you've
married the swell-est guy in the world.
I know it.
- See that you deserve him.
My darling.
How about that new job?
Now listen.
It's better we don't
talk about that now.
You come to my office tomorrow.
Right?
Johnny, come here.
Tell your mother not to worry.
Tell her it isn't important.
It never was important.
- Alright.
Good morning, Mr Morgan.
You want to see me?
Yes, Mr Graham. Sit down, won't you?
- Thank you.
You know, ever since you were married,
you've come to work later and later.
Yes I know.
I've been keeping late hours.
I've been thinking.
Perhaps you might enjoy a vacation?
No thank you.
I'd rather go on with my work.
You like your work, Mr Graham?
Well.
I see that you do, yes.
Let me ask you something else.
Do you like New York?
Yes. I was born and raised here.
So was I.
And I really love it.
As a matter of fact,
I love it so much that ..
Whenever I hear of anyone
moving out, why ..
I simply can't
understand it, that's all.
You know, Mr Graham, there's been an
awful lot people leave New York lately.
Now here is Mr Hedges:
'Moved out of town. Address unknown'.
Mr Lowell.
'Out of town. Address unknown'.
Mr Brown .. just the same.
Just think of it. All these people move
out of town without leaving any address.
Doesn't that strike you
as being kind-of funny?
No .. I mean, yes it does.
I never thought of that.
I thought of it .. and it burned me up.
I sort-of checked up on it.
Would you believe it, Mr Graham?
I found that every one of these
people had moved back to New York.
And were all living at
the same addresses.
That's also kind of funny, huh?
- 'Odd' might be a better word.
Thanks for supplying it.
Now I'll tell you ..
- I'll tell you in 2 words: 'I'm fired'.
I'm glad you brought the subject up. I
never liked the job and never liked you.
You don't mind my being frank?
All I hope is that someday I'll have the
pleasure of serving a summons on you.
That's one time I when I
won't be chicken-hearted.
Say, Miss Reynolds, you
know what time it is?
Half past seven. You ought to have been
home long ago. Why are you here so late?
I'm sorry, Mr Krausemeyer.
I didn't know it was so late.
Look .. my first sketch.
- That will be fine.
Tomorrow is plenty of time.
- Alright.
By the way, are you still living
with your husband and her sister?
I mean with your sister and his husband.
Your .. husband .. his?
Where are you living now?
I'm living with them until I
can afford a place of my own.
Yes, I see. We'll fix that.
I'll raise your wages.
- No, I won't take it.
You've spoiled me ever
since I've been here.
That's alright.
Anyhow, no more work tonight.
Come on, skedaddle.
Alright.
Well, Hans.
I didn't expect you back so soon.
How are you? Welcome home.
- Glad to be home. How's Mama?
She's fine. Just the same as always.
I still have my dyspeptic, but I'm fine.
- How's business?
Business is fine.
Since you've been away.
I'm so unsatisfied with
your work on the road.
Why is that?
Do you realize you come back with
orders like a pocket address book?
And an expense account
like a Webster's dictionary.
Listen, Pop. Something is wrong with
that line of ours. It just don't work.
Wait a minute. What's
the matter with our line?
I don't know. I could have
sold lots of orders, except ..
Never mind about the orders.
What's the matter with the line?
I could have sold at least four gross
to that Cinderella shop in Des Moines.
If the brim had turned down
instead of up. Like that.
You are talking about the
Krausemeyer Sweet-16 number?
Exactly. Now look, Pop.
If the brim was turned down
all the way round like this.
Instead of up it would be a cinch.
There's no end to what I can do.
Wait a minute.
I don't care whether you don't
sell forty gross in Des Moines ..
Or if you don't sell four
gross in Des Moines.
Spartenburger & Company have
a model called the 'Croquet'.
Croquet?
Yeah. And their brim turns down.
- Exactly. Now look, Pop.
See if I'm not right.
How do you like that?
Maybe it's better down.
But it stays up.
Just to make a liar of
Spartenburger & Company.
'Krausemeyer Sets The Style'.
That's been our slogan for years.
The customers buy from Spartenburger.
That's been their slogan for years.
Hans .. you know, at times you
abuse the privilege of being dumb.
From your sales, whether the brim turns
up or down we still owe ourselves money.
Miss .. Miss Reynolds, I
want to ask you something.
Now look .. let me show you.
That's the Croquet.
- Croquet.
Shut up.
Now look.
Now that is the Sweet-16.
Now I ask you, which is it?
I think you're both wrong.
You see, that's what I told you.
- Come here. This is what we should do.
Look. Wait a minute, don't tear it.
That's an expensive hat.
I know, but I'm trying to show you.
- I know.
Now look.
Do you like that?
By golly, she's right.
You are right. Excuse me.
I didn't introduce my son.
This is my son, Hans.
He thinks he's a songwriter,
but really he's a dumber for the firm.
He means 'drummer'.
- Don't be so sure about that, either.
Whether he's writing songs or selling
hats, he still has foolish ideas.
You know, your father does
nothing else but brag about you.
I hope to see a lot of
you while I'm in town.
I might even find time
to write a song about you.
Yeah. Never mind, don't get personal.
Time for us all to go home.
Miss Reynolds.
Would you like to take
supper with us tonight?
I'd love to, but I can't.
I wish you could.
- I wish I could too.
Goodnight. Thanks so much.
Goodnight.
- Goodnight.
I got it.
- You got what?
Listen to this.
When my baby walks down the street.
Baby, da doo, da doo dah ..
That's what you mean as a 'special'.
Hello Nick.
Hello.
Gosh .. where's the celebration?
I don't know. I missed it.
Where's Kay?
Club Freeland. Whatever that is.
It's a swanky place. Go there
for cocktails and stay for breakfast.
Are you joining her?
- I'm supposed to.
Are you going?
- Uhuh. Got a lot of work to do.
You're lucky.
Nick, I don't like the sound of that.
Come on, tell me what's happened.
Nothing .. just lost my job, that's all.
Nick, I'm sorry.
It just had to come now.
What happened?
- My boss likes New York.
I don't get you.
It doesn't make any difference.
I wouldn't have more of
that if I were you, Nick.
It's like dynamite when you're down.
I hope I can depend on that.
Maybe I'll go after all.
Cigarettes?
Have a cigarette?
- No thanks.
How about an olive?
- I'd like that.
That's the girl.
Cigarettes?
- Yes, but not filters. Plain please.
This is a real nice party. Smart people.
- You never see anything else here.
I wonder how my husband is doing.
He's still on his feet.
- That's some consolation.
By the way, I have an
idea about him and you.
Something interesting?
- I don't know.
I'll talk to him about it now.
Will you excuse me?
Hurry back.
Hello Harry.
- Hello.
Look after Mrs Graham for me will you.
- I surely will. How are you, Kay?
Fine. Have a drink.
- Yes. What are you drinking?
A Standby.
Looks good. Bill, one just like it.
Do you mind if I join you?
- Uhuh.
How's the groom doing?
- Fine.
Have a little drink?
Two Sidecars, please.
- Make it two.
Are you in the street?
Indeed I am. I walked several today.
I mean Wall Street.
- No. I didn't get that far.
I may make it tomorrow.
- I'm afraid I don't understand.
It's alright. Skip it.
I beg your pardon.
I didn't mean to offend.
I was trying to find out what
business you're in. That's all.
I've a place for you in my
office if you're interested.
I'm sorry.
I'm afraid I'm a little bit tight.
I don't even remember your name.
My name is Courtland.
Harry Courtland.
Courtland? I've heard that name before.
I was a friend of your wife's father.
Perhaps that's where you heard it?
Sure. Sorry. I forgot.
- Quite alright.
Yes.
Mr Courtland is the friend who refused
to help my father when he needed it.
Perhaps that's where you heard it, Nick?
Good evening, sir.
- Evening, Martha.
Where's everyone?
- On the terrace, sir.
Mrs Graham is dressing.
- Thank you.
I'll sign for that.
- Yes, Mr Graham.
Will there be anything else, sir?
- No thank you.
Thank you, sir.
Hello.
- Hello, dear.
Something new?
- Uhuh. You like it?
I like the back.
- Thank you.
Hurry up and dress me. Harry's
found a new cocktail lounge.
Why does he bother to find new ones?
They all taste, look and smell alike.
What's the matter? Don't you feel well?
- I feel alright.
But Kay ..
Yes?
Couldn't we cut down
on expenses a little?
Yes, I suppose so. Why?
Because we need to.
I thought you were making lots of money.
I am. But not as much as we spend.
You know, I'm buying
all the shares I can.
Shares of what?
Midland Petroleum.
You know, Harry's stock.
Nick. I wouldn't do that.
Why not? It's a good investment.
I just wouldn't. That's all.
I'm selling it, Kay.
That's very well.
Sell it, but let other suckers buy it.
What are you hinting at?
Nothing.
Forget about it.
He didn't exactly win the fourth race,
but he was so behind he won the fifth.
So it goes that we had all
our money riding on him too.
Hello everybody.
- Hello, Nick.
Can I see you a moment, Harry?
- Sure.
You don't mind, do you?
- Not at all.
Excuse me.
- Certainly.
Let me do that, dear.
Make that two, will you? Drinks I mean.
Ginger ale or soda?
- Soda for me, thank you.
What's on your mind?
Harry, how far are you
into Midland Petroleum?
Every dollar I own. Why?
Then why didn't Kay want me to buy it?
I'll bite, madam.
Why don't you want him to buy it?
I don't know.
Now, there's an excellent reason.
You want to unload?
I think not if that's the
only reason she has.
After this, don't call my customers
'suckers'. I don't like it.
My grammar's bad, Nick.
That's all. Forget it.
Okay.
Will you hurry up and drink?
Be back in a minute.
Tell a woman a secret and ..
- That isn't fair.
I'll tell Nick when to unload, so stop
worrying. He'll make money out of it.
What a lovely gown.
- Thank you.
New, isn't it?
- Yes.
Expensive too.
It must be marvelous to be
able to afford such luxury.
I never worried about
the cost of anything.
Then you're not to mind how
much money your husband makes.
Selling my stock.
Ain't you working today?
What's the matter?
You don't feel good?
Krause .. do you ever play the market?
The stock market?
- Hmm.
I should say not.
Pinochle and credit,
that's what does for me.
Why?
- I just wondered.
Some stock I'd like to find out about.
I see .. that's it, yeah?
- Hmm.
We'd better find out about it right
away so we get some work done.
Mike Reid across the street.
His wife buys our hats.
Hello Minnie. Minnie, give me
Mr Reid at Reid & Jackson's.
Yes, Reid & Jackson.
Stockbreakers, er ..
Stockbrokers. Yeah.
What is the name of the stock?
Midland Petroleum
Properties Incorporated.
Midland Petro Prop ..?
- No, no.
Midland Petroleum
Properties Incorporated.
Midlands Petroleum ..
- Properties ..
I bet that stock ain't any good
with a name like that.
Hello .. Mr Reid?
This is Krausemeyer.
Yeah. Krausemeyer's hats.
That's it. How are you, Mike?
Say, Mr Reid, I wonder if you could give
me a little information about a stock.
Called Midden Properties ..
- No, no.
Midland Petroleum
Properties Incorporated.
Midland Petroleum
Properties Incorporated.
Midland Petroleum
Properties Incorporation.
Ated.
Ate .. what?
- Incorporated.
Yes .. 'Incorporated'.
Petroleum Properties ..?
Yeah, that's it.
You said it right. That's it.
A friend of mine wants to sell me some.
You don't say so.
Well, you've confounded me.
What did he say?
Excuse .. just a minute please.
He said he ain't no friend of mine or
he wouldn't try and sell them to me.
Here, give it to me.
Hello .. this is Mr Krausemeyer's
secretary speaking.
Can you tell me what's wrong with it?
No, I can't.
And we don't give out guesses.
The company was started
by Harry Courtland.
I'd advise you to look
into it before you buy.
There's a rumor he's being investigated
by the department of justice.
I see.
Thanks so much, Mr Reid.
No good? No good, huh?
Did you buy some?
- No.
Then what are you worried about?
Nick.
What's Nick got to do with it?
He's mixed up in it.
I'm afraid he's going to
get into serious trouble.
Hello, Harry.
- Hello, Nick.
I'm glad you dropped in. Sit down.
You've made remarkable
progress in the last two months.
Where did you make all these contacts?
I met a lot them when I
was with Morgan & Price.
Some are friends of my family.
I see.
You took on quite a
bit of Midland yourself.
All I could .. perhaps a little
more than I could afford.
I don't know.
Excuse me.
Hello.
Well.
Is there someone in your office?
Hmm .. and how.
Yeah, you'd be surprised.
Sit down, Nick.
Oh.
Yes, I'll call you later .. goodbye.
Blond or brunette?
- Brunette.
I must be on my way.
Keep up the good work, Nick.
- Say, I haven't even started yet.
Krause.
Be a honey and let me
have the afternoon off.
Sure, alright. You might as well.
You're no good around here anyway.
You're a pet. I love you. Thank you
so much and I'll make up for it.
You bet you will.
- With love and kisses.
Goodbye darling.
- Goodbye, sweet.
Don't forget.
- How could I?
You startled me.
I didn't know you were here.
I was in my room.
What time did you get home?
- About two o'clock.
Don't stand there staring.
What are you going to do?
I should slap your face.
Don't act like a schoolgirl.
Will you have a cocktail?
No.
I was just going out.
Were you?
There's a few things I'd like to say
to you, Kay. But somehow I can't.
What goes on here?
Pat slapped me.
I think she's out of her mind.
Slapped you?
What do you mean? Get out of
here and stay out. You hear me?
Yes, I hear you.
You're shaking.
Now, what brought on this
demonstration of sisterly love?
It was my fault.
I slapped her first.
You slapped her?
Where are you going?
- To apologize.
I'll get the rest of my things
when you two are out.
Pat, I'm awfully sorry.
Please don't go.
I know Nick didn't mean what he said.
Don't you talk to me about Nick.
You have the wrong idea
about this afternoon.
I didn't tell you my idea.
So, unless it's the same as yours ..
Listen, Kay.
Nick was a nice person when he met you.
Why don't you keep him that way?
Why don't you get out of this
place and forget about money?
Start the way you should
have in the first place?
Why don't you tell Nick that
Courtland and his stock are crooked?
Harry is going to tip Nick
off when to sell his stock.
Did Courtland tell Nick that?
No. He told me.
- Did you tell Nick?
No.
- Why?
Because ..
If Nick knew the stock was
worthless he wouldn't sell it?
You knew, yet you let Nick do something
he'd hate just to get a lot of money.
Hans, another piece of apple strudel?
- Yes. Thanks mom.
Listen, Krause. I'm asking your help
to save Nick from a prison term.
Any day the department
of justice men can ..
Pat, listen. Don't walk across the
bridge until you come to where it is.
We won't worry about that too much yet.
It's the only way I can think of.
Buy back the stock from them sold to.
Then they can't make a complaint.
Now, Papa. Give her the
money and let her do it.
Mama, please.
You run the house,
I run the business, eh?
Haven't you never been in love
with somebody you couldn't have?
You don't catch me that way.
I married the one I was in love with.
I know it's a lie, but it sounds
so good when he says it.
Now let's all go in the parlor.
Now listen, Pat.
I wouldn't worry about it.
You know, that's the great
problem with all of us.
We make a molehill out of a mountain.
- Now listen, Krause.
If you loan me the money, I'm sure
I can get it back from Courtland.
Yeah, I know .. but how?
By selling him our stock.
But why would Courtland buy
it when he knows it's no good?
Quiet.
- Well.
Someone will ring up his office.
And start a rumor that
an oilwell has come in.
A big gusher.
Yeah .. then he'll try
and find out all about it.
Before he has time,
an oilman from the west ..
A very shrewd businessman.
Comes into his office
with a big block of stock.
He would never buy it.
Hans, pay attention.
Help your father decide.
Alright.
Now listen, Pop.
Suppose the oilman is there not to sell.
But to buy control of the
company from Courtland.
Don't you think Courtland
would say to himself ..
'An oilwell came in. And those crooks
in the field are trying to swindle me'.
He might.
A crook always thinks
everybody else is crooked.
Wouldn't he try and buy our
stock thinking it's valuable?
What do you think of the scheme, Krause?
It sounds so good, I think there
must be something bad about it.
Listen.
How would Courtland know that
our man could pay for the stock?
I've thought of that.
Our man could have a certified check
for about a hundred thousand dollars.
Which is enough to buy control.
A hundred thousand dollars?
- Sure.
Where's he going to get it?
Ah .. that's where you come in.
I knew it. I walked under
a ladder this morning.
But he doesn't have to
give Courtland the check.
Just to use as evidence to show
that he can pay .. to bluff with.
Ah well .. that sounds better.
That sounds wonderful.
Well, Mama. $100,000 checks
don't go by sound, you know.
They go by writing.
You're a real businesswoman,
Mrs Krausemeyer.
Sure I am .. who do you
think Hans gets it from?
Hans .. wake up.
Excuse me .. would you mind
if I asked one little question?
Certainly not.
Of course it's none of my business.
After all, I'm only the fellow
that puts up the money.
Sure, go ahead.
But who is this shrewd businessman,
who's full of oil with a stock of block?
Witt a .. with a ..
With a block of stock that
we can trust with $100,000?
Why, Hans.
Hans?
Him a businessman?
But you told everybody
he's a good businessman.
Alright, Mama. I told you that to
keep peace and quiet in the family.
I can do it alright.
What have I got to do?
Listen, Hans.
What you do is very simple.
It has to be twice as simple.
- Hush, Papa.
Hans.
You come into the office.
You're a big oil man.
But I'm not. I'm a travelling salesman.
I know, but it's just pretence, Hans.
Here.
You come in.
You sit down.
You look smart but you don't say much.
The less the better.
Now Courtland sells the stock
for two dollars a share.
You offer him three, for complete
control of the company. Got that?
That's easy.
- Then he asks you ..
'What do you know of
Midland Properties'?
What do I say?
- Nothing.
I tell him I know nothing about it.
I've never even heard of it.
No, no Hans.
You don't tell him anything.
Now he'll probably offer you
four dollars a share for your stock.
Then what do you do?
- I take it.
No, you don't.
You just laugh at the offer.
- I laugh .. ha, ha, ha.
Hans, please. Laugh.
Don't gurgle that way. Just laugh.
He's sure to think the
property is very valuable.
He'll offer five dollars a share.
Then I'll laugh .. ha, ha, ha, ha.
Shush, Mama. Will you please
refrain yourself for a minute now.
Now, Hans.
You don't laugh at that offer.
You say to Courtland: 'Mr Courtland'.
'As long as we can't get together
on a deal, and you won't sell ..'
'I sell you my stock'.
Then what do I do?
- You bring the check home to father.
That's where I laugh. Ha, ha, ha, ha.
That's the best news I heard yet.
Mama, we make a little profit, you see.
- Profit.
Krause, I'll pay interest on your loan
and reimburse Nick for what he'll lose.
That's fine. The whole thing sounds
pretty good. There's only one catch.
What's that?
That laughing jackass over there.
He'll get it all wrong, sure.
Hello Pat.
Hello Nick.
Let's shake and make up.
I feel foolish, the way I acted.
It was nothing, Nick.
I've forgot about it.
But have you forgiven me?
Of course or I wouldn't have phoned.
Sit down.
I'm even going to do you a good turn.
- Me?
Hmm.
I've got Krausemeyer interested
in Midland Properties.
Say, that's great. I could stand
to sell a few more shares.
You need the money?
Well, you know the way
that Kay's spending it.
Yes I know.
Nick .. what makes you
think the stock is good?
I know it is. It's sound. One of the
biggest oilfields in the country.
Who told you so?
- Harry Courtland.
He's seen the field and he's
developed a lot of oil wells.
That's fine.
But Krausemeyer is a very cautious man.
Before he does a thing, he wants to know
about the people who are interested.
After all, he doesn't
know Harry Courtland.
Don't you see it would be easier if I
could tell him who the stockholders are.
That's a bit irregular,
Pat. Ordinarily I ..
Nick, you know you can trust me.
I suppose it's alright.
Take care of these, Pat.
Don't worry Nick .. I will.
I asked you a question.
Harry, your question was a little vague.
I'd hate to ..
Darling, I'm simply trying to
get you to correct a mistake.
And what was this mistake?
Have you forgotten your wedding?
So much has happened since
then it makes me forget.
Don't look now. Your husband is
behind you. He'll remember.
Hello Kay.
Have a nice time at the party?
Yes.
I looked all over for you.
You weren't at your
apartment last night.
No. Sit down, Nick.
I was out of town on business.
What's on your mind?
- Plenty.
It's about Midland Petroleum.
- Yes, well what about it?
I ran into an old customer yesterday
and he told me he had sold his stock.
So I called up some of the rest,
and they've all sold for a profit.
I thought it was something important.
Did you find out who's buying it?
An oilman from out West
buying through Wade & Jackson.
They won't tell me who.
That's nothing to get excited about.
- Then maybe this is.
Someone called his secretary to ask if
it's true we'd bought into a well.
A gusher.
Will you excuse me, please?
- Certainly, Harry. Business first.
Waiter.
- Let me take care of it.
No thank you. Check, please.
- But I insist.
As there's so little I can
do for my wife anymore.
Surely, you won't mind
my buying her lunch?
Alright.
Goodbye Kay. Nice to bump into you.
- Goodbye, Harry.
So long, Nick.
- So long.
Well, Mrs Graham.
This is quite a break for me.
You're looking lovely.
- Thank you, Mr Graham.
Nick .. I hope you don't mind
my having luncheon with Harry.
My darling, why should I?
I don't know. I just thought that ..
Lately it seems you've been
a little jealous of poor Harry.
My dear.
When a man trusts a woman ..
Jealousy is out of the question.
I'm so glad.
Check, please.
Extraordinary chap, Harry.
I wonder why he never married.
- Perhaps he never found the right girl.
Something tells me he has.
I'll get you a cab.
- Thank you.
If you guys think you can put anything
over on me, you're screwy, you're crazy.
No. Make that 'you're mistaken'.
I own control of that stock and I've no
intention of selling a single share.
I'll sign that. Now take a
wire to Hoskins at the ranch.
Dear Fred.
Bird-dog over to Midland field and
report to me by wire immediately ..
Of any activity to derricks.
[ Telephone ]
Mr Courtland's office.
Why did you want to speak to him?
I'm not in to anyone but Waite
and the Telegraph Company.
It's an oilman from the West.
Courtland speaking.
This is Mr Krausemeyer.
Yes. What can I do for you?
Say you just got in from the oilfield.
- I just got in from the oilfields.
Tell him you found an oilwell sprouting
so much gasoline it's a regular geyser.
No, Krause. Tell him you're interested
in accumulating more stock.
I'm interested in accumulating
more stock.
You're talking through your hand.
- You're talking through your hand.
I'm interested in
accumulating more stock.
Mr Krausemeyer, I'm afraid
we have no more stock to sell.
But I would be very happy indeed to have
a chat with you if you care to drop in.
Yes, I'll be in all afternoon.
Goodbye.
He's the bird who started this.
If he's as dumb as he sounds,
I'll buy his stock.
Now send those wires.
- Yes, sir.
Now. Now listen, Hans.
Be careful what you do with this.
It's a certificate check for $100,000.
- A certified check.
Don't contradict me, I know what kind
of check it is. Look, take it like that.
Put it in the upstairs pocket of
your vest like that. And cover it.
See?
Now, when he says he wants to
see the check .. do that quick.
No, no, no.
- Are you going to butt in here?
Listen, Krause. Please let me ..
- It's my check, please.
I know it is. Listen.
Just act as if $100,000
doesn't mean a thing to you.
Impossible. He ain't a
good enough actor.
Hans, just do as we rehearsed.
That's all.
Here we are.
Hans, is that The Croquet
or the Sweet-16?
Neither.
Never mind, never mind.
I know what it is.
Well, Mr Courtland.
I guess us critters could get
together on a deal alright.
Listen, Hans. Will you hurry over there
before you forget what to say. Come on.
Don't worry, partner.
I never forget anything.
Hey! Here, wait a minute.
You forgot the stock report.
Hans. Look, you fool.
You forgot the stock report.
Now remember this.
When he wants to sell, you want to buy.
When he wants to ..
Now wait. This ain't a song.
When he wants to buy, you want to sell.
I know, I know. When he offers me four
dollars a share I'm supposed to laugh.
Don't worry about it. It'll be alright.
- Don't worry?
I'll bet ten dollars to a shoe
button he gets it wrong.
Don't worry, Pop.
It's going to be alright.
Well, even if it is.
It will be the longest day of my life.
He's got a brain like a
mosquito. I don't know why.
Come right in, Mr Krausemeyer.
Sit down. Make yourself at home.
- Thanks, partner.
Have a cigar?
- Nope. I don't smoke.
You're interested in oil, I hear?
- Yep. That's right.
Now, what's the lowdown on all this?
Did a gusher come in?
I don't know nothing about a
gusher, except what I heard.
What did you hear?
If it's all the same to you,
I'd rather not talk about that.
They won't let you talk, huh?
That's right.
They told me not to say nothing.
Now, let's stop all this horseplay.
You're a smart businessman.
You came here to buy
more stock, didn't you?
That's right. I'm accumulating control.
That's impossible.
You mean, you ain't aiming to sell?
- Certainly not.
But I'll buy all the stock you have.
What do you want for it?
First, you make me an offer.
I'll give you three dollars a share.
I'll give you three dollars a share.
I'll make it four.
What's the matter with you?
I'm laughing at your offer.
It's no laughing matter, Mr Krausemeyer.
I'm giving you a tremendous profit.
I don't know nothing about profit.
I'll make you a final offer
of five dollars a share.
Here is a certified check.
To seal the bargain.
It's nothing.
You have considerable money behind you.
We won't go into that. Either you
buy my stock, or I'll buy yours.
I'll give you six dollars a share.
That's my last offer.
Okay, partner. It's a deal.
- Great. I'll give you my check.
Yes?
I thought I left orders not
to be disturbed .. who?
Alright. Put them on.
Listen, Harry.
I've got a hot tip. The Federal dicks
are liable to move in on you any minute.
What's that?
If I were you, I'd take it
on the lam. Quick.
Thanks, Ben.
Mr Krausemeyer .. I changed
my mind. I accept your offer.
You drive too hard a bargain for me.
Now, here are twenty
thousand shares of Midland.
At five dollars a share,
that is $100,000.
Which is the exact amount of your check.
Not only that, I'll throw in the office
and all the furnishings. They're yours.
You can do with them what you
like. Lock, stock and barrel.
I enjoyed this little
business proposition.
I hope we meet again at a future date
and have an even more profitable deal.
Goodbye and good luck.
- Okay, partner.
Congratulations.
Boy, did I smart that monkey.
I'm getting worried.
I wonder what keeps him so long?
- Don't worry. No news is good news.
I really put it over that time.
I knew you would.
You wouldn't be a
Krausemeyer if you didn't.
Come on. Tell us about it.
How much did he give you?
Let me see his check.
Check?
Did he pay you in cash?
- He didn't give me any cash.
No check and no cash?
I'm getting weak.
Where is my check?
The certificate check?
I showed you in my vest
how not to give it.
Hans .. didn't you bring
that back with you?
How could I when I used it
to buy these stocks with?
You gave him my check?
To buy more stock?
They were only five dollars a share
and he was giving me the office.
Krause. It's all my fault.
Now I'm in the oil business.
I'm an oil king.
Me and Rockefeller. Only Rockefeller
has got oil, and all I've got is this.
But he gave me the office
and all the furnishings.
Pop, there's no telling what the
office fixtures alone are worth.
Are they worth $100,000?
Well.
They might be.
Alright. Come on, let's go and
find out something about it.
Listen Krause. It's all
my fault, honey. Really.
Now listen darling. That's alright.
What is .. is.
It's my fault for not being a bachelor.
And this?
This is what I get for my $100,000.
But Pop, it's first-class
office equipment.
But I don't need it.
I don't want it. I got enough.
All these fancy things
around here. What is ..?
What's that?
- A Dictaphone.
A what?
- A Dictaphone.
You see, I can't even play it.
But you don't play it, Pop.
You talk to it.
I ain't speaking to it now anyway.
These things here look like
a couple of hand organs.
Look, what do you call this, here?
- That's tape.
It's what?
- Tickertape.
It may tickle you.
But it don't tickle me.
You .. you dummkopf.
Listen, Pop. For years I've
been trying to get ahead.
And by golly you need one.
Why don't you use the one you got?
I couldn't get 75 dollars
for this whole shebang.
Hello Pat. What are you doing here?
- I've been searching for you all over.
Nick .. I've made the most
awful mess of things.
Now what is this?
Pardon me, Mr Graham.
A telegram for you.
Thank you .. excuse me, Pat.
- Alright.
Nick .. what's the matter?
'Kay and I are on our way to Canada'.
'Advise you leave town immediately,
before involved in serious trouble'.
'Kay sends regards'.
It hurts doesn't it, Nick.
What are you going to do about it?
Nothing .. now, what is your trouble?
I persuaded Krausemeyer to
buy back the stock you sold.
Courtland sold him the whole company.
But why?
To save you from going to prison.
I heard the department of justice
is investigating Harry Courtland.
The department of justice?
So that's why Courtland ..
Where is Krausemeyer?
- In there.
First thing is to get him out
of trouble. Come on, Pat.
Bring your book in, Miss Kirby.
I'll apologize later, Mr Krausemeyer.
Now we've no time to lose.
I lost everything else.
I might as well lose time.
Take dictation.
'I Karl Krausemeyer, assign to N. Graham
all my equity in Midland Petroleum'.
I give it all to you?
You can't have a thing to do with the
company when the DOJ men get here.
What?
- Let me ..
Quiet.
- The door.
Stall.
We'd like to see the head of the firm.
- He isn't here.
When will he be here?
Well.
Not for several weeks.
That's right. That's right,
gentlemen. As a matter of fact.
As a matter of fact, he may not be
back for a few years. You can't tell.
Where is he?
He .. went .. to San Francisco.
San Francisco .. out
on the Pacific coast.
Now, if you'll be a bit more definite,
we'll be glad to send a plane for him.
Well, if we knew exactly.
We'd be very pleased to inform you.
Wouldn't we, Mr Abernathy?
- Sure, Mr Grimshaw. A pleasure.
You see.
This is Mr Whistlesmith.
He's a stock gambler.
How do you do?
- Smart fellow.
One day he is a 'bull' and the
next day you can't 'bear' him.
That's a riddle.
Is Harry Courtland in?
- No, he's not.
Where is he?
I don't know.
Who's in charge of your
office during his absence?
You mean Mr Krausemeyer?
- Krausemeyer. Come on O'Brien.
I'm sorry. He's busy.
- Not too busy to see us.
But he told me ..
Which one of you men is Krausemeyer?
What's your business here?
- Department of Justice.
J-Men.
- G-Men.
Excuse me.
I'm more responsible than he is.
- Wait a minute.
You see, it's all my fault.
That's alright. That's my daughter.
How do you do?
Just a minute.
So you're Graime?
Yes, you see ..
- Then this must be Courtland.
No, this is Mr Whistlesmith.
- I've heard that one before.
No. Excuse me, but I made
that name up myself.
Thought so.
Are these men your gang?
No. We thought they were from the DOJ.
We're from the Civic Refinery.
Look here, there ought to be ..
Are you going to resist arrest?
- Not with his glasses on.
Come on. You're invited to headquarters.
- Thank you. Thank you.
Let's get going.
- Sorry, Pat.
Well.
I think I'll get a bite of lunch.
No you won't. Let's go.
- I'm hungry.
I know it. Come on.
Was that Krausemeyer?
Yes, I'm afraid it was.
'Federal Detectives', my eye.
I'll bet they were from the
Golden State Petroleum Corp.
If they get Krausemeyer alone,
we won't even have a chance to bid.
Bid for what?
- We want to buy Krausemeyer's company.
We'd give him 100% profit.
But you see, our company
wants his property.
Those Golden State
thieves beat us again.
That's what you think. Come on.
Bring me a pitcher of ice-water please.
What?
Ain't you one of the bellboys here?
Hey, where do you think you are?
This is a jail, and I'm the keeper.
Excuse me. Excuse me please.
Well, how is business?
Rooms all rented and everything?
Sir, we could use fifty more
of them, if we had them.
Hey, listen.
Are you married?
- Sure, I'm married.
Listen.
If you do me just one little favor.
I'll send your wife one
of our Sweet-16 models.
I'll fix it so you have an extra
room for another customer.
Say, what are you driving at?
All I want you to do.
Is to put me in next door.
With my son .. that's my son in there.
I want to be near him.
I want to be where I can get
my hands on him. That's all.
Pop .. what have I done now?
Nothing.
Not a thing.
You only spend $100,000 of mine
buying stock certificates I don't want.
And an office I haven't even got.
Anyway, we can prove
you don't belong in here.
You ain't got to prove it. I admit it.
I know I don't belong in here
and I know where I belong.
I belong in a lunatic asylum and I
should be dressed in a straitjacket.
So I can't sign any more checks.
Here's an order for their release.
This will have to be countersigned.
Just a moment, gentlemen.
- Certainly.
Krause .. you're freed.
Freed?
I got an order for your release.
Did the jury say I ain't guilty?
I explained to the
department of justice.
All you have to do is to pay
back the other stockholders.
That's all I've got to do, eh?
That is .. a good explanation.
Did you also explain what
I'm going to use for money?
These oilmen want to buy the property.
Go and sell it to them, Pop.
So they can take our place in here.
Quiet. Shush.
This is Mr Krausemeyer, gentlemen.
Gentlemen, I'm delighted
to make your acquaintance.
Won't you sit down?
Excuse me.
Excuse me, I forgot
you can't get in here.
Mr Krausemeyer, we want
to buy your company.
Yah? That's very, very nice.
And what will you pay for it?
Let me handle it, Pop. I'm an oilman.
I'll give you four dollars a share.
Ha, ha, ha ..
What's that?
That's ..
That's my Hans. My offspring.
He heard your offer.
I'll give you five dollars a share.
Ha, ha, ha, ha ..
You see how silly that
all sounds to him.
You're giving my son the ha-ha's.
Well .. seven dollars a share.
Ha, ha ..
- Shut up.
That's a deal.
Mr Krausemeyer, I'm sorry you're not
going to be with us any longer.
Yes.
Thank you. That's very nice.
Did you hear what he said?
Now, Mr Krausemeyer.
Before we close this deal, there
is one condition I'd like to make.
Uhoh.
Yeah? A condition, eh?
There's always a fly in the ointment.
What is the condition?
- That son of yours.
He's the kind of a man we would
like to have in our business.
True. Keen, Foresighted.
Now we want him with us.
Him?
Really, I couldn't spare him.
He is the backbone of my business.
I realize that. But we need him too.
Now, we'll .. pay him $200 a week.
You'll pay him $200 a week?
Well, make it $300.
Don't laugh, Pop. It's a deal.
Fine .. fine.
Come over to the office.
We'll sign the contract now.
Thank you.
- Fine.
Good day, Mr Krausemeyer.
- Good day.
Krause, I'm so happy.
You should be.
You're a smart girl.
Mr Krausemeyer.
I don't know how to thank you.
Don't mention it.
You know, I like you.
Really, now. I like you.
There's a vacancy in my business.
Now that my son has turned out
to be an oil can .. an oilman.
How would you like to have his job?
- Nothing I would like better.
I won't say how much I'll pay you.
Because somebody might laugh
and I would have to pay you more.
I've learnt a lesson today.
A man isn't always a jackass
because he laughs like one.
Ladies .. and gentlemen.
It's a great pleasure you're
all here with me tonight.
To help celebrate the great
success of my son, Hans.
Hans .. you should feel proud.
This supper tonight is
a compliment to you.
Krause, that's a great boy you got.
You bet your life. Why wouldn't he be?
He takes after his father.
And what of me?
Am I a nobody in this family?
Listen mother.
I am the walls and the roof.
But you are the foundations.
Pat.
Kay has gone to Paris to get a divorce.
Really? How interesting.
I'd hoped you would .. well, I mean ..
Pat, we've known each other a long time.
Well.
I think we see things quite a bit alike.
Don't you?
- Sure.
Well.
Pat.
Nick .. by any chance are you
trying to tell me you love me?
Uhuh.
- I thought so.
Do you think you can have your mind made
up by the time we get to the corner?
Why the corner?
We've got a street light.
Oh Pat.
..w-g..