One Girl's Confession (1953) Movie Script
$7,000...
-Wait. Where were you?
-I'm sorry. I'll be right down.
-Mary!
-Yeah, I'll be right down!
The same thing like this, "Mary, Mary, Mary!"
I never have a chance
to even dress around this...
The sprouts are for Mr. Lewis,
and the soup for old Nick.
And get the orders from five and six.
What happened?
Got stuck with your boyfriend?
Stop that, or I'll spill this right in your lap!
The old man was real mad.
-Yeah, yeah, I know.
-Hey, Mary!
I'll be right with you. Cut it out, will you?
Have you decided what you want?
If I tell you, you'll slap me like you did
yesterday. So, what's the use of asking?
-Hey, Mary!
-I'm coming.
Hey, here comes the old dolly now!
-Hey!
-Hey!
Excuse me.
-Hey, waitress!
-Yeah, I'll be right there.
-What'll it be?
-What kind of soup do you have?
Clam chowder. Fresh.
Okay, soup and a double rum.
That's my appetizer.
-And clear off this place.
-Hey, Mary!
-Yeah, I'll be right there!
-You know, always when I see you, dearie,
-I wonder, I just simply wonder.
-What's the gimmick?
What do you work so hard for?
You've got a beautiful face
and a wonderful figure.
Listen, I know a guy
that's just crazy for you...
-Yeah, I know, with a lot of dough.
-Well, how'd you know?
-Don't waste your time.
-Well, but he...
Yeah, I know, he's different.
They're all alike.
They just have different faces
so you can tell them apart.
-Hello, baby!
-Well, old-timer!
That's no excuse! To fall asleep!
So I was tired and fell asleep
and was late for work once!
So what are you beefing about?
Don't get fresh!
If it wasn't for the memory
of your poor father,
I'd show you how tough it is
to get a good job nowadays!
Old buzzard! "lf it wasn't for the memory
of my poor father!"
He thinks I don't know
how he cheated my father.
Don't get upset. You can't change him.
After all, he's took care of you
all these years.
He took care of me? Don't make me laugh!
To get rid of me, he put me in an orphanage
and then in a convent,
and when I was strong enough
to slave for him, he brought me back.
Well, he got upset.
The place full of people, and you not here.
Stop your stupid talk! Close up the place!
Put the lights out!
So much money! Crooks!
-Yeah, who is it?
-Police. Open up!
I'm coming!
Sorry to break in on you like this,
young lady.
We'd like to ask you some questions.
I'll make it easy for you, gentlemen.
I took that money,
and I'm ready to take the rap for it.
So, let's go!
Hey, you're not serious?
I wouldn't joke with the police.
You can see I'm all packed.
You ungrateful, you! Where is the money?
Where is it?
-You shut up!
-Now, now, wait a minute.
-Where is the money?
-That I won't tell you.
-Why don't you ask him where he got it?
-Well, that's none of your business.
Officer, she's got the money.
Search the room!
Don't waste your time.
You don't think I'd be foolish enough
to keep it here, do you?
Officer, do your duty and arrest me.
And take him along, too.
Let's go.
Mary Adams, I have here
your signed confession,
that you robbed your employer,
Gregory Stark, of $25,000.
Mr. District Attorney, I confess the robbery.
But, of course, I can't say how much it was.
I didn't have time to count it.
According to the police report, you refuse
to reveal where the money is hidden.
That is correct. I confess, and I'm...
I'm ready to accept my punishment.
It'll make a great deal of difference
in the attitude of the court
-if you tell us where the money is.
-I'm sorry.
This man, Gregory,
cheated my father out of his whole fortune.
Maybe my father wasn't a saint either,
he was mixed up in some kind of a racket
with Gregory, but after all,
he was my father, and I loved him.
Gregory ruined him,
and I made up my mind that I'd get even.
Now I've got a chance.
I'm sorry, young lady, but you can't
take the law into your own hands.
No matter what your reasons
and motives are, you cannot justify stealing.
Look, Mr...
Mr. District Attorney, I work like a fool,
scrubbing floors, washing dishes, serving,
and all for a little food and a stuffy room.
I'm not complaining,
but every day I must hear,
"lf it wasn't for the memory
of my poor father..."
I'm sick of it! I want to get out of this misery!
Well, you certainly
won't get out of it this way.
How much do you think you'll get for it?
Mary Adams, one to 10 years
in the California Institute for Women!
Say, what are you brooding about?
Don't be a fool.
You only have four months left to go.
-How long are you in for?
-Five years. So what?
Once here.
Over. Here.
Now, you try it once.
What is it? Now, come, sit down.
Sit there and I'll finish it for you.
Come in.
Mary Adams. Come in, sit down.
Mary, we,
Father Benedict, the guards and myself,
have been watching you for quite a while.
-Have I done something wrong?
-No, not at all.
We just wonder what keeps you
so cheerful all the time.
What's wrong with that?
That's quite all right, my child.
We're not criticizing you.
On the contrary, we appreciate your attitude.
Yeah?
What I want to know...
You seem to like it here.
That would be slightly exaggerating,
but I take things as they come.
What else could I do?
You see, I have hopes,
and I'm making plans for the future.
Well, just last night, I did a little figuring,
and instead of counting the days
I have behind me, I figured out
that I have 1,508 days left to go.
That includes a leap year, 1956.
We want to do something for you, Mary.
Do you have any particular wish,
any special work you'd like to do?
Maybe working in the library
or in the kitchen?
You mean, I can choose?
Are you on the level?
I wonder if I could work in the garden,
by any chance?
As the gardener's helper?
I think that can be arranged.
-Pretty hot.
-Sure is.
Look how the young oak trees are growing.
Isn't it a joy?
It's been about seven months now, hasn't it?
They'll be big and strong.
-How long does it take?
-Two or three years.
I'll still be here. I'll see them.
How much longer do you have to serve?
One thousand seventy-two days.
It's going nicely.
Say, somebody was telling me you've got
a lot of money hidden somewhere.
You're pretty smart.
Maybe I'm not so smart. All that money
just lying there, no interest, no dividends.
-How much?
-25 grand.
Say, you're a rich girl. What are
you going to do with all the dough?
I don't know. I change my plans every day.
-Yes?
-It's according to what will be
booming when I get out.
I want... I don't know, I want so many things.
It'll take a lot of thinking
before I get the right idea.
But you can bet it'll be the right idea.
-Well, let's get going.
-Here, hold this a minute.
Let's go!
Look at that. Would you believe it?
That fell out of the wall!
Such a funny thing, nature.
See, when the young trees are growing,
the roots have such strength, such power,
they push away any obstacle. They even
push their way out of the prison wall.
Isn't that something?
Mary, I've been looking for you.
The Warden wants to see you.
-What about?
-I don't know.
Mary, we have news for you.
We are not sure you're going to like it.
Father Benedict and I recommended
to the parole board
to grant you a probation period
for the remainder of your sentence,
because of your good behavior.
We just got the answer.
If you keep out of trouble,
you're a free person.
I'm sorry. It was a little sudden.
-When do I go?
-Any time. It's up to you.
-Happy?
-You bet!
Well, Mary, what are you going to do?
-I'm not spying on you.
-I know you aren't, Father, but...
-But?
-I'm afraid.
That's why I turn around all the time.
I want to make sure I'm not being followed.
-Followed? By whom?
-Gregory's gang, or the police.
Or maybe your own conscience?
There's nothing wrong with my conscience.
It's none of my business, child,
but that money you took is cursed money.
Such money never brings luck.
-Where shall I drop you?
-Near Hacienda Drive.
There's an apartment house there,
I remember. I always wanted to live in it.
It's inexpensive. I hope it's still there.
So, you intend to return
to the place of your...
Crime? Sure,
I have some unfinished business here.
And then I want to go away
and start a new life.
They want to get my dough!
I can wait.
Hey, that was nice! Do it again!
Looking for somebody?
Yeah. Wasn't there a little joint around here?
I mean, a restaurant a couple of years ago?
You mean... Sure, that's gone. Condemned.
-It was full of water rats.
-And human rats, too!
Well, I had a girlfriend working there.
Can you tell me what happened
to the old man that ran the place?
Old Gregory? The cops gave him
a headache, so he took a powder.
They say he's operating somewhere
in South America now.
Thanks.
Quite a dish, huh?
Want to see the boss?
Yeah.
You've got to wait a while,
after he finishes the hand.
-Who is it?
-Okay, go ahead.
Boss, a beauty to see you!
-Come for the job?
-Yeah, sure. Is it still available?
It depends.
-Got any experience?
-I've worked as a waitress before.
Yeah? Look how you bent the cards.
Why do you do it?
-Where did you work?
-Various places out of town.
-Drugstores, drive-ins.
-Got any recommendations?
-Just my calluses.
-That's not enough.
A good waitress must have
in the first place...
Yeah! It's exactly what I mean.
Come, sit down. Sit down.
Don't play tough, sit down.
-What are you going to drink?
-Nothing, thank you.
No, don't give me that. What shall I order?
-Root beer.
-She says it with a straight face!
Look, that's mine. You deal. Take it.
Take it, it's for good luck.
Buy yourself a nice dress
to impress my customers.
-You mean I've got the job?
-If we agree on terms, why not?
Wait, I'll be right back, now.
Let's go to my office.
If everything's all right,
then we can start right away.
Come, let's go.
Wait!
If you want that lucky money,
I left it on your desk!
Why are you staring?
Can't I have a little privacy?
Say, do you know you're the first girl
who ever dared to slap me?
Someone should have done it
a long time ago.
You've probably met the other type of girls,
so maybe it isn't your fault anyway!
Wait!
What now, spoiled baby?
Isn't she a darling? I like you.
You're a brave girl.
You'll make a good waitress,
and a good bouncer, too, huh?
Sit down. You've got the job.
And if anybody ever dares to touch you,
including me, I'll break his neck!
You order.
Root beer for everybody!
Hi.
-Hello, boys!
-Hi!
Hey, Bill, mix me a Manhattan, will you?
I talked to Frank. Says he might let me
sing in his club when the girl has a day off.
That's good.
Darling, please give me another one.
And a cigar, please.
-Who's she?
-The new lady-in-waiting.
-Who hired her?
-Nobody.
She bought the place.
I'm just working here for her.
Cut it out. Where'd you find her?
Where did I find her? Thank you.
Thank you, darling.
Say, what's that?
A little fresh air, if you don't mind. I opened
the window before you all suffocate.
-Isn't she a darling?
-I'm afraid so!
Don't be jealous.
I didn't give her a second thought.
Still working on the first, huh?
Say, stick to the game.
I'm losing money, you're having fun.
Who's having fun, you fool?
I'm winning again. You deal.
-How much can I bet?
-Unlimited. I give you a chance.
-Your Manhattan, honey.
-Thanks, honey.
Mary!
Come.
-Yeah?
-A customer. The kitchen's closed.
Only sandwiches.
-Good evening, sir. What can I do for you?
-Bring me...
I didn't know you worked here.
I never saw you before.
I just started.
Well, I wish I'd have known. I'd have shaved.
What for?
Pretty sharp, aren't you?
What's so interesting over there?
Nothing. Just making sure that
there's no mischief going on in my place.
-Since when are you so moral?
-Well, one has to start someday.
The kitchen's closed,
but you can have a sandwich.
All right, it's a deal. Whatever you say.
Am I glad to see you again.
-You know I couldn't forget you?
-Love on first sight?
-Well, it saves a lot of time.
-Bologna or ham?
Ham on rye, and a beer,
and don't let me wait too long.
-Hungry?
-You bet!
-Twenty for me.
-I've never seen such luck.
-For months he's been winning every hand.
-Well, you should get used to it by now.
-I'll do it myself.
-Say, Johnny, cut it out. She's my niece.
He's just joking.
Hey, isn't he a cop?
You are crazy. It's Johnny.
He's in the fish business.
He sells fish to all these places around.
Comes here once in a while.
-Now he'll be here day and night.
-Isn't that good? I mean, for the business?
Yeah, sure. Sure, for the business.
Thanks. Why is the boss watching us?
He sort of plays my protector.
He seems to be a nice guy.
Yeah, he's all right. A bit stingy maybe,
except when it comes to gambling.
He'll gamble for anything, any time,
any amount.
Seems to be lucky. He wins all the time.
I'd rather invest my money.
Say, what kind of a game are they playing?
It's an old Balkanese game,
only these foreign characters know it.
And how about the kibitzers?
They just stare at the money.
It fascinates them.
Say, I don't know how to say it...
-Say it with flowers.
-You work late tonight?
-Quite late.
-Anybody waiting for you?
Yep.
Mary, make me a few sandwiches, please.
Trying to keep her busy, hey?
Can't I be hungry?
What's so unusual about that?
-Want to make a monkey out of me?
-Why should I take all the credit?
Now, Smooch, you know you're my only one.
You must have tried already
and she told you off.
What a clever girl! You know, I adore you!
-You know what you are?
-No foul language in my place.
-Good night, Mary. Good night.
-Good night, Bill.
You left some dishes there.
Mary, why are... Why don't you go home?
-Well, I didn't know. I thought that...
-Go home, sure. Good night.
-Good night.
-Good night, darling. Have nice dreams.
And include me, occasionally.
I'm sorry. I didn't know it was you.
Why didn't you say something?
Say something?
You didn't give me a chance.
Am I glad it's you.
Well, I knew I was a lady-killer, but
I didn't expect to make such a hit with you.
Say, how come...
I mean, what are you doing here?
Waiting for you. Took a chance.
Let's go up and sit
and watch the ocean for a while, huh?
Gee, you gave me a scare!
I can't understand you. What's the matter?
You afraid of the streets at night?
Maybe I'd better pick you up every night.
I won't charge you for it.
It's nothing.
I'm just a little bit edgy, but I'll get over it.
I like boats.
-I like that sound.
-Yeah, that's my language.
You know, sometimes
when I'm out on the open sea,
I don't hear anything else for days.
That must be wonderful!
Away from the world.
It's a bit lonesome, sometimes.
Hey, why don't you come out with me
your next day off? You'd love it.
-Do you go out there for fun, or...
-I should say not. It's my business.
I sell fish to all these gents around here.
Does it pay?
It's a clean business. Lots of water.
I just got a cranky old boat now,
but I put in for a loan, and when I get it,
I'm going to start really big.
-What loan? What do you mean?
-A bank loan I applied for.
Gonna get new equipment,
high-powered motor boat.
You know, I can make $700 or $800 a month,
just like that.
How much did you...
I mean, how much of a loan do you need?
You considering financing me?
Sure. Just a minute, here's my contribution.
-What kind of a joke's this?
-It's no joke. It's your quarter.
-You left it on the table.
-Now, wait a minute. I was a customer,
you waited on me.
It's the usual thing to leave a tip.
I know. I'm not angry. It's just that, well,
suddenly I felt that I couldn't take it.
Not from you. Please, take it back.
Well, that can only mean that
you consider me more than a customer.
-No, don't.
-Why? Somebody else?
No, not somebody, something.
I can't tell you.
I don't want to get involved, not now.
Maybe someday I'll tell you.
You know you lied to me, don't you? You
said there was somebody waiting for you.
Well, weren't you?
I said no.
He's nice.
His eyes are so honest and his voice, soft.
And his fingernails are clean.
From all that salt water, I guess.
Maybe it isn't a bad idea.
$700 to $800 a month.
If I could only get that money.
No, I must wait. I'll wait.
-Well, I don't know what to do.
-It's getting late.
Yeah, sure it's getting late. I'm losing
my shirt, so you are getting tired, huh?
It's only money.
Sure, it's only money.
As long as it's my money, you don't mind.
Double or nothing.
What's the difference to you?
You have no risk. Come on.
-It's no use. Whatever you do, it's no use.
-It's going bad, huh?
He's losing like mad. How can he stand it?
Well, he's not used to losing. Always lucky.
He thinks it can't be otherwise.
Look at that, look at that!
The devil must have shuffled the cards!
Complete hand, 30, 60, 80.
You said double or nothing.
Where is the money?
I hope I'm good for a few grand.
Come on, another game.
Double or nothing. Come.
Now, look here, Damitrof,
when you have your lucky hand,
you always ask for the money.
Yes, but this is my joint.
I mean, I can't run away with that.
It's not enough security, or what?
It's like cash! So, come on.
-Double or nothing. Deal!
-I have to get up early tomorrow.
Be a sport. Come on. You deal.
Double or nothing.
Well? All right.
Mary, why don't you go home? You deal.
And tell Bill not to forget the...
I won't cut this time. Maybe it'll be...
Tell Bill to... What did I want to say?
I don't know.
It was frightful. He looked like a madman.
His eyes were bloodshot
and his face was red.
I felt sorry for the poor guy.
Well, gambling is a gamble.
He should know what he's doing.
But everybody says how lucky he is in cards.
Well, the only sure thing about luck
is it can change.
Hey, that's not bad, what I just said.
-You're a great brain.
-Yeah.
I wanted to ask you something.
That business of yours,
I mean, the fish business, is it very risky?
Can you lose your investment?
I don't know how, unless I bring home
foul fish every day,
or people stop eating fish.
I guess so. If the bank's willing
to give you a loan, it must be.
What is this? Are you trying to kid me, or...
I don't get you.
It was just a thought.
You see, I have a girlfriend in my hometown,
a widow with a lot of money.
And, well, she asked me to look around
and see if I could find a good, solid deal.
So I thought I'd write to her
and tell her about you and...
Well, thanks, Mary, but I'm afraid
it'd take too much time before...
What I mean is, you see,
I think the bank loan will come through
in two or three weeks.
Two or three weeks? Maybe she could
have it even sooner. Who knows?
You know, you got eyes like a cat.
They shine in the darkness.
Mary, I'm crazy about you.
Wait, would you go 50-50
if she gives you the money?
50-50 on a loan for $5,000? Are you crazy?
All I have to do is pay the bank interest
around 6%. 50-50, my foot!
'Course, for you, I might go 50-50.
Maybe even 60-40.
Sixty for whom?
For you, of course.
Maybe even 70-30.
80-20.
90-10.
It's a deal!
I'm sorry, Mr. Damitrof,
but I left my keys in my apron pocket,
and I didn't want to wake up
the landlady this late.
I'm so sorry, Mr. Damitrof. Is it that bad?
Bad? It's finished.
-It can't be that bad.
-No?
I don't even have the few bucks to pay you.
It's gone. Everything is gone.
Tomorrow, I must clear out.
-You mean you lost your business?
-Everything.
I lost my business, my liquor license,
my policy, my cash. That's not all.
-Well, what else is there?
-I signed a bad check.
I don't know why. I lost in my head.
That means jail.
I did something like this before.
That means jail as sure as I sit here.
I don't understand it.
Well, you were always so lucky.
-How could you lose so much at once?
-I don't know.
It started so innocently, 20 bucks a game.
I was losing for a while, so what?
A gambler must be used to these things.
That crook!
He looks like the devil!
I lost all my cash.
Tomorrow is payday,
so I wanted to win it back.
I started chasing my own money,
that's the trouble!
Double or nothing, double or nothing!
It's like a nightmare! Double or nothing!
Double or nothing!
$100, $200, $400, $800, $1,600, $3,200,
it mounts, it mounts,
and now you expect that
the luck must turn your way.
The luck can't stay with a guy
for five and six hours.
But, no, it stays with him
for seven and eight hours!
You shuffle the cards, you cut,
you don't shuffle, you don't cut,
it's all the same. He gets the good cards,
and you pick up all the trash!
Every card you pick up,
it's trash, trash, trash!
So you lose your head,
you bet and bet and feed that monster
sitting there like... Like a stone wall!
What's the use?
Against bad luck, you are helpless.
That crook!
He's cruel.
He'll put me in jail. I'm sure he will.
How much is it? I mean, the bad check?
5 grand.
And if you get the money by tomorrow
morning, will it save you from jail?
Sure, but where shall I get it?
I'll give you the money.
What kind of a joke is that?
I wouldn't joke with you at a time like this.
You were nice to me, and I trust you.
You help me, and I'll help you.
And don't ask any questions. Where is there
a pencil and a piece of paper?
Now, look,
you know where Jackson Avenue is?
-Sure.
-I mean Jackson and Oak Drive.
There's a little drugstore on the corner.
From there, you drive three blocks
to Rozario Road.
Wait, I'll write it down.
There's some sort of a dead-end,
a railroad block with a stop sign.
Yeah, and take the shovel with you.
There's one in the garage.
What is it? What are you smiling at?
Sure, it's you.
The girl who robbed old Gregory.
I knew I saw your picture somewhere.
Sure, in the papers. What a girl!
Now, Mary, don't be silly. You can trust me.
I wouldn't give you away.
Look, I need you, and you need me.
You said it yourself.
You will save me from jail, and you need
somebody to get you the dough.
Don't you trust me?
Mary, don't you?
Well, as I was saying,
there's a railroad block with a stop sign.
You step over it and walk up hill to
the forest. Now, watch, here's the first tree.
Just a little to the left, you pass the first,
second, third, fourth, and at the fifth tree,
you walk inside to the right,
up into the forest.
And then, you start counting again,
one, two, three, four, five.
Now, the tree's marked.
I carved a capital "M" in it.
There you start digging,
just a little to the right as you stand.
Not too deep, about seven or eight inches.
And there you'll find a tin box. Don't open it.
Bring it to me, and I'll give you your share.
Stop that monkey business and go!
Say, what happened to you?
Where's the money?
You tell me, you sly little fox.
Changed your mind?
Got cold feets on me, huh?
Made a fool out of me.
-You mean, you didn't find it?
-Stop acting.
I knew it. I knew it right away that
you quickly made up a story,
with your five trees to the left,
five trees to the right.
And, l, idiot, believed you.
Get out! Get out, I said! Leave me alone.
Are you sure you found the right place?
-You didn't make a mistake?
-Yeah, yeah, yeah. I made a mistake.
I dug in about a dozen of places
to make sure.
Don't give me that nonsense. Get out!
You mean, you didn't find it?
Maybe you made a mistake.
Stop acting and get out! Get out, I said!
Cursed money will never bring you luck.
I'm sorry, young lady, but you simply
can't take the law into your own hands.
I dug in about a dozen places to make sure.
Don't give me that nonsense. Get out!
Get out, I said!
You didn't find it? You didn't find it?
-Are you looking for somebody?
-Yeah.
The trouble is, I only know her first name.
It's Mary. She's a waitress.
-Yes, I know. But she's sick in bed.
-What's wrong with her?
Well, I don't know.
She doesn't say anything,
-and she doesn't eat for three days now.
-Well, haven't you called a doctor?
She doesn't want anyone.
All she wants is to be left alone.
Which room is hers?
Well, she doesn't want to see anybody.
She told me so,
and besides, she sleeps a lot,
and I don't want to wake her.
Look, I'm a friend of hers.
I just got back from a fishing trip.
I went to that place where she works,
to see her, but it's closed.
Well, maybe she doesn't know that.
There's a sign on the door,
"New management, re-opening soon."
Look, tell her that Johnny called to see her.
You got that?
-Yes.
-I got to go now.
I'm due back at my boat.
Well, what can I do for you, beautiful?
Well, I was just wondering.
Are you the new owner?
No, no. Just the new manager.
Well, you see,
I worked here for a few days and...
Can you tell me what happened
to the former owner, Mr. Damitrof?
I don't get you, honey. It's still his place.
He's just a little tired of it, that's all.
He wanted to take things easy for a change.
Have some fun. I think I've seen you
here before. Why'd you quit?
I was sick for a few days.
Well, if you want to see Mr. Damitrof,
he moved to that swanky apartment house
on Jackson, across from the park.
They call it the Shangri-La.
He's throwing a big party out there tonight,
kind of a housewarming, you know.
And he's short on dames.
He'd be glad to see you, I know.
Thanks.
Double-crosser! That cheap crook!
Mr. Damitrof. Second floor.
Who wants champagne?
Who wants French brandy?
Just imported. Come and get it.
You should try to drink it together.
-Take a little brandy.
-Thanks.
Champagne. Champagne.
Here. Who else? Where's my glass?
Do you have a glass there?
Wait, I'll try it this way.
Puffy, now you're going to be sick.
Don't worry about me. I know what...
See?
Now you see, I told you.
Come on and sit down. Come on, now.
Now, hold it. Come here.
Now!
Smooch!
Where's my glass?
They're having a good time with my money.
For my three years in jail.
Smooch! Don't leave me alone. Come...
Be right back.
Smooch!
Say, you! Do you hear?
Mr. Damitrof! Mr. Damitrof! Wake up.
You've got to answer some questions.
Wake up!
Remember me?
Remember the little fool that trusted you,
who believed that you were an honest man?
Don't sleep! Wake up!
What did you do with my money?
Give me back my money.
What did you do with it?
I can't breathe. Let me go! Let me go!
Let me go!
You little darling.
I knew you were after him, you brat!
You want to get
yourself a rich boyfriend, eh?
Well, that's the best way, when he's out
and can't remember what he did.
Wait! Look.
You killed him.
I don't care. He had it coming to him.
What are you talking about?
What did he do to you?
I sent him to the place
where I had my money hidden,
and he came back
pretending that he didn't find it, and...
And he had a great time,
laughed and had fun with my money.
You fool! That wasn't your dough.
I know, I was there when he got it.
He was desperate,
wanted to kill himself before going to jail.
Then came a fur merchant, the very next
morning, a Turk with a lot of moolah.
Puffy took a long shot, started the game
without a cent in his pocket.
It was like a miracle. He took every hand.
Took that Turk for 48 grand, just like that.
Now that's the truth, you fool.
So what are you talking about?
I'd better call the police.
Hey, wait!
Roots. Roots. How was it?
What did the old gardener say
about the roots?
When young trees are growing,
their roots have such power,
they push away every obstacle.
Yes, what is it, young lady?
-Are you the officer in charge?
-Well, what do you think I am, a bookie?
-I killed a man.
-Sit down. I'll be right with you. What?
-What did you say?
-I killed a man.
How did you kill him?
With an empty champagne bottle,
right here on the temple.
Wait, let's get this straight.
What's your name?
Mary Adams.
-Occupation?
-Waitress.
-Now, who did you kill?
-My employer, Mr. Damitrof.
I don't know his first name,
but his girlfriend calls him Puffy.
He has a little bar on Franklin Beach.
-Well, where does he live?
-He doesn't live. I told you, I killed him.
I mean, what's his address?
The Shangri-La Hotel on Jackson Avenue,
I think.
That's where I killed him this morning,
between 4:00 and 5:00.
Give me the Shangri-La on Jackson.
Go ahead, sit down.
Shangri-La?
Do you have a man named Damitrof living...
I mean, registered at your place?
Yeah. Well, can you give me his apartment?
Hello.
This is the police.
Is this Mr. Damitrof's apartment?
Is it true that he was murdered?
Wait, I'll let you talk to the body.
-For you. The police.
-The police? Hello.
Yes, that's me. Dragomie Damitrof.
What? Am I dead?
I've got your killer right here in front of me.
Well, if you say so, then I've got to
believe you. Sorry to have bothered you.
Now listen, you screwy little lady.
Either you lay off that bad liquor,
or we'll put you in jail.
You mean you really talked to him?
He's alive?
Now you get out of here, but quick,
before I change my mind.
Tell me, what happened?
I don't know.
You must have turned in your sleep,
and when you fell,
you cut your face on an empty bottle.
I was in the bathroom and when I came out,
there you were, on the floor.
You see. Empty bottles are very dangerous.
From now on, no empty bottles in my house.
So he's alive,
and I, a fool, gave away the money.
The money! My money!
Smooch!
-Yes, what do you want?
-I asked you an hour ago for a drink.
No drink.
If you want a glass of fresh water, all right.
Water. When I get up, remind me to kill you.
Sister Alberta! Sister Alberta!
Look! Look!
Sure. I knew it was you. How are you, Mary?
-Hello, Mr. Damitrof.
-How do you feel?
-Fine. Just fine.
-You look wonderful. It's a nice dress.
-$7.50.
-On you, it looks like $8.50.
It's hot, huh? What is it? This here?
I played with a kitten.
It scratched me. Little beast.
You still angry with me?
-Why should I be angry?
-Well, I can understand it.
I behaved badly, I lost my temper,
but you were so right.
Why should you trust me, a no-good guy,
a gambler?
-What are you going to do now?
-I don't know.
Well, if you want to work for me, any time.
I'm re-opening next Saturday.
The place will be newly decorated.
The prices will go up, of course.
Say, how about working for me
as a hostess? That's an idea.
That would be wonderful.
You're so nice, Mr. Damitrof.
Someday, should you trust me more,
then you can tell me
the right place where the money is hidden,
and I get it for you.
No reward, of course. I don't need it now.
I'm afraid you'll laugh.
I gave the money away for charity.
-That's a good one.
-I told you you would laugh.
Mary! So happy to see you well again.
Going out on a fishing trip.
How about you coming with me?
It'll do you good.
Come on, be a sport.
I've got fresh hamburgers, cold beer,
a phonograph with beautiful records
and a shawl to put around your shoulders
when the wind starts blowing. I love you.
What do you think, Mr. Damitrof?
Should I go?
-Mary, come on.
-Well, I'd like to say
what can you expect from him?
I've my Cadillac waiting here.
We can go somewhere, have a few drinks,
go to the races,
but I think you are a nice girl.
You deserve something more solid, huh?
I think you should go. Wait!
I'm too generous.
-Wait. Where were you?
-I'm sorry. I'll be right down.
-Mary!
-Yeah, I'll be right down!
The same thing like this, "Mary, Mary, Mary!"
I never have a chance
to even dress around this...
The sprouts are for Mr. Lewis,
and the soup for old Nick.
And get the orders from five and six.
What happened?
Got stuck with your boyfriend?
Stop that, or I'll spill this right in your lap!
The old man was real mad.
-Yeah, yeah, I know.
-Hey, Mary!
I'll be right with you. Cut it out, will you?
Have you decided what you want?
If I tell you, you'll slap me like you did
yesterday. So, what's the use of asking?
-Hey, Mary!
-I'm coming.
Hey, here comes the old dolly now!
-Hey!
-Hey!
Excuse me.
-Hey, waitress!
-Yeah, I'll be right there.
-What'll it be?
-What kind of soup do you have?
Clam chowder. Fresh.
Okay, soup and a double rum.
That's my appetizer.
-And clear off this place.
-Hey, Mary!
-Yeah, I'll be right there!
-You know, always when I see you, dearie,
-I wonder, I just simply wonder.
-What's the gimmick?
What do you work so hard for?
You've got a beautiful face
and a wonderful figure.
Listen, I know a guy
that's just crazy for you...
-Yeah, I know, with a lot of dough.
-Well, how'd you know?
-Don't waste your time.
-Well, but he...
Yeah, I know, he's different.
They're all alike.
They just have different faces
so you can tell them apart.
-Hello, baby!
-Well, old-timer!
That's no excuse! To fall asleep!
So I was tired and fell asleep
and was late for work once!
So what are you beefing about?
Don't get fresh!
If it wasn't for the memory
of your poor father,
I'd show you how tough it is
to get a good job nowadays!
Old buzzard! "lf it wasn't for the memory
of my poor father!"
He thinks I don't know
how he cheated my father.
Don't get upset. You can't change him.
After all, he's took care of you
all these years.
He took care of me? Don't make me laugh!
To get rid of me, he put me in an orphanage
and then in a convent,
and when I was strong enough
to slave for him, he brought me back.
Well, he got upset.
The place full of people, and you not here.
Stop your stupid talk! Close up the place!
Put the lights out!
So much money! Crooks!
-Yeah, who is it?
-Police. Open up!
I'm coming!
Sorry to break in on you like this,
young lady.
We'd like to ask you some questions.
I'll make it easy for you, gentlemen.
I took that money,
and I'm ready to take the rap for it.
So, let's go!
Hey, you're not serious?
I wouldn't joke with the police.
You can see I'm all packed.
You ungrateful, you! Where is the money?
Where is it?
-You shut up!
-Now, now, wait a minute.
-Where is the money?
-That I won't tell you.
-Why don't you ask him where he got it?
-Well, that's none of your business.
Officer, she's got the money.
Search the room!
Don't waste your time.
You don't think I'd be foolish enough
to keep it here, do you?
Officer, do your duty and arrest me.
And take him along, too.
Let's go.
Mary Adams, I have here
your signed confession,
that you robbed your employer,
Gregory Stark, of $25,000.
Mr. District Attorney, I confess the robbery.
But, of course, I can't say how much it was.
I didn't have time to count it.
According to the police report, you refuse
to reveal where the money is hidden.
That is correct. I confess, and I'm...
I'm ready to accept my punishment.
It'll make a great deal of difference
in the attitude of the court
-if you tell us where the money is.
-I'm sorry.
This man, Gregory,
cheated my father out of his whole fortune.
Maybe my father wasn't a saint either,
he was mixed up in some kind of a racket
with Gregory, but after all,
he was my father, and I loved him.
Gregory ruined him,
and I made up my mind that I'd get even.
Now I've got a chance.
I'm sorry, young lady, but you can't
take the law into your own hands.
No matter what your reasons
and motives are, you cannot justify stealing.
Look, Mr...
Mr. District Attorney, I work like a fool,
scrubbing floors, washing dishes, serving,
and all for a little food and a stuffy room.
I'm not complaining,
but every day I must hear,
"lf it wasn't for the memory
of my poor father..."
I'm sick of it! I want to get out of this misery!
Well, you certainly
won't get out of it this way.
How much do you think you'll get for it?
Mary Adams, one to 10 years
in the California Institute for Women!
Say, what are you brooding about?
Don't be a fool.
You only have four months left to go.
-How long are you in for?
-Five years. So what?
Once here.
Over. Here.
Now, you try it once.
What is it? Now, come, sit down.
Sit there and I'll finish it for you.
Come in.
Mary Adams. Come in, sit down.
Mary, we,
Father Benedict, the guards and myself,
have been watching you for quite a while.
-Have I done something wrong?
-No, not at all.
We just wonder what keeps you
so cheerful all the time.
What's wrong with that?
That's quite all right, my child.
We're not criticizing you.
On the contrary, we appreciate your attitude.
Yeah?
What I want to know...
You seem to like it here.
That would be slightly exaggerating,
but I take things as they come.
What else could I do?
You see, I have hopes,
and I'm making plans for the future.
Well, just last night, I did a little figuring,
and instead of counting the days
I have behind me, I figured out
that I have 1,508 days left to go.
That includes a leap year, 1956.
We want to do something for you, Mary.
Do you have any particular wish,
any special work you'd like to do?
Maybe working in the library
or in the kitchen?
You mean, I can choose?
Are you on the level?
I wonder if I could work in the garden,
by any chance?
As the gardener's helper?
I think that can be arranged.
-Pretty hot.
-Sure is.
Look how the young oak trees are growing.
Isn't it a joy?
It's been about seven months now, hasn't it?
They'll be big and strong.
-How long does it take?
-Two or three years.
I'll still be here. I'll see them.
How much longer do you have to serve?
One thousand seventy-two days.
It's going nicely.
Say, somebody was telling me you've got
a lot of money hidden somewhere.
You're pretty smart.
Maybe I'm not so smart. All that money
just lying there, no interest, no dividends.
-How much?
-25 grand.
Say, you're a rich girl. What are
you going to do with all the dough?
I don't know. I change my plans every day.
-Yes?
-It's according to what will be
booming when I get out.
I want... I don't know, I want so many things.
It'll take a lot of thinking
before I get the right idea.
But you can bet it'll be the right idea.
-Well, let's get going.
-Here, hold this a minute.
Let's go!
Look at that. Would you believe it?
That fell out of the wall!
Such a funny thing, nature.
See, when the young trees are growing,
the roots have such strength, such power,
they push away any obstacle. They even
push their way out of the prison wall.
Isn't that something?
Mary, I've been looking for you.
The Warden wants to see you.
-What about?
-I don't know.
Mary, we have news for you.
We are not sure you're going to like it.
Father Benedict and I recommended
to the parole board
to grant you a probation period
for the remainder of your sentence,
because of your good behavior.
We just got the answer.
If you keep out of trouble,
you're a free person.
I'm sorry. It was a little sudden.
-When do I go?
-Any time. It's up to you.
-Happy?
-You bet!
Well, Mary, what are you going to do?
-I'm not spying on you.
-I know you aren't, Father, but...
-But?
-I'm afraid.
That's why I turn around all the time.
I want to make sure I'm not being followed.
-Followed? By whom?
-Gregory's gang, or the police.
Or maybe your own conscience?
There's nothing wrong with my conscience.
It's none of my business, child,
but that money you took is cursed money.
Such money never brings luck.
-Where shall I drop you?
-Near Hacienda Drive.
There's an apartment house there,
I remember. I always wanted to live in it.
It's inexpensive. I hope it's still there.
So, you intend to return
to the place of your...
Crime? Sure,
I have some unfinished business here.
And then I want to go away
and start a new life.
They want to get my dough!
I can wait.
Hey, that was nice! Do it again!
Looking for somebody?
Yeah. Wasn't there a little joint around here?
I mean, a restaurant a couple of years ago?
You mean... Sure, that's gone. Condemned.
-It was full of water rats.
-And human rats, too!
Well, I had a girlfriend working there.
Can you tell me what happened
to the old man that ran the place?
Old Gregory? The cops gave him
a headache, so he took a powder.
They say he's operating somewhere
in South America now.
Thanks.
Quite a dish, huh?
Want to see the boss?
Yeah.
You've got to wait a while,
after he finishes the hand.
-Who is it?
-Okay, go ahead.
Boss, a beauty to see you!
-Come for the job?
-Yeah, sure. Is it still available?
It depends.
-Got any experience?
-I've worked as a waitress before.
Yeah? Look how you bent the cards.
Why do you do it?
-Where did you work?
-Various places out of town.
-Drugstores, drive-ins.
-Got any recommendations?
-Just my calluses.
-That's not enough.
A good waitress must have
in the first place...
Yeah! It's exactly what I mean.
Come, sit down. Sit down.
Don't play tough, sit down.
-What are you going to drink?
-Nothing, thank you.
No, don't give me that. What shall I order?
-Root beer.
-She says it with a straight face!
Look, that's mine. You deal. Take it.
Take it, it's for good luck.
Buy yourself a nice dress
to impress my customers.
-You mean I've got the job?
-If we agree on terms, why not?
Wait, I'll be right back, now.
Let's go to my office.
If everything's all right,
then we can start right away.
Come, let's go.
Wait!
If you want that lucky money,
I left it on your desk!
Why are you staring?
Can't I have a little privacy?
Say, do you know you're the first girl
who ever dared to slap me?
Someone should have done it
a long time ago.
You've probably met the other type of girls,
so maybe it isn't your fault anyway!
Wait!
What now, spoiled baby?
Isn't she a darling? I like you.
You're a brave girl.
You'll make a good waitress,
and a good bouncer, too, huh?
Sit down. You've got the job.
And if anybody ever dares to touch you,
including me, I'll break his neck!
You order.
Root beer for everybody!
Hi.
-Hello, boys!
-Hi!
Hey, Bill, mix me a Manhattan, will you?
I talked to Frank. Says he might let me
sing in his club when the girl has a day off.
That's good.
Darling, please give me another one.
And a cigar, please.
-Who's she?
-The new lady-in-waiting.
-Who hired her?
-Nobody.
She bought the place.
I'm just working here for her.
Cut it out. Where'd you find her?
Where did I find her? Thank you.
Thank you, darling.
Say, what's that?
A little fresh air, if you don't mind. I opened
the window before you all suffocate.
-Isn't she a darling?
-I'm afraid so!
Don't be jealous.
I didn't give her a second thought.
Still working on the first, huh?
Say, stick to the game.
I'm losing money, you're having fun.
Who's having fun, you fool?
I'm winning again. You deal.
-How much can I bet?
-Unlimited. I give you a chance.
-Your Manhattan, honey.
-Thanks, honey.
Mary!
Come.
-Yeah?
-A customer. The kitchen's closed.
Only sandwiches.
-Good evening, sir. What can I do for you?
-Bring me...
I didn't know you worked here.
I never saw you before.
I just started.
Well, I wish I'd have known. I'd have shaved.
What for?
Pretty sharp, aren't you?
What's so interesting over there?
Nothing. Just making sure that
there's no mischief going on in my place.
-Since when are you so moral?
-Well, one has to start someday.
The kitchen's closed,
but you can have a sandwich.
All right, it's a deal. Whatever you say.
Am I glad to see you again.
-You know I couldn't forget you?
-Love on first sight?
-Well, it saves a lot of time.
-Bologna or ham?
Ham on rye, and a beer,
and don't let me wait too long.
-Hungry?
-You bet!
-Twenty for me.
-I've never seen such luck.
-For months he's been winning every hand.
-Well, you should get used to it by now.
-I'll do it myself.
-Say, Johnny, cut it out. She's my niece.
He's just joking.
Hey, isn't he a cop?
You are crazy. It's Johnny.
He's in the fish business.
He sells fish to all these places around.
Comes here once in a while.
-Now he'll be here day and night.
-Isn't that good? I mean, for the business?
Yeah, sure. Sure, for the business.
Thanks. Why is the boss watching us?
He sort of plays my protector.
He seems to be a nice guy.
Yeah, he's all right. A bit stingy maybe,
except when it comes to gambling.
He'll gamble for anything, any time,
any amount.
Seems to be lucky. He wins all the time.
I'd rather invest my money.
Say, what kind of a game are they playing?
It's an old Balkanese game,
only these foreign characters know it.
And how about the kibitzers?
They just stare at the money.
It fascinates them.
Say, I don't know how to say it...
-Say it with flowers.
-You work late tonight?
-Quite late.
-Anybody waiting for you?
Yep.
Mary, make me a few sandwiches, please.
Trying to keep her busy, hey?
Can't I be hungry?
What's so unusual about that?
-Want to make a monkey out of me?
-Why should I take all the credit?
Now, Smooch, you know you're my only one.
You must have tried already
and she told you off.
What a clever girl! You know, I adore you!
-You know what you are?
-No foul language in my place.
-Good night, Mary. Good night.
-Good night, Bill.
You left some dishes there.
Mary, why are... Why don't you go home?
-Well, I didn't know. I thought that...
-Go home, sure. Good night.
-Good night.
-Good night, darling. Have nice dreams.
And include me, occasionally.
I'm sorry. I didn't know it was you.
Why didn't you say something?
Say something?
You didn't give me a chance.
Am I glad it's you.
Well, I knew I was a lady-killer, but
I didn't expect to make such a hit with you.
Say, how come...
I mean, what are you doing here?
Waiting for you. Took a chance.
Let's go up and sit
and watch the ocean for a while, huh?
Gee, you gave me a scare!
I can't understand you. What's the matter?
You afraid of the streets at night?
Maybe I'd better pick you up every night.
I won't charge you for it.
It's nothing.
I'm just a little bit edgy, but I'll get over it.
I like boats.
-I like that sound.
-Yeah, that's my language.
You know, sometimes
when I'm out on the open sea,
I don't hear anything else for days.
That must be wonderful!
Away from the world.
It's a bit lonesome, sometimes.
Hey, why don't you come out with me
your next day off? You'd love it.
-Do you go out there for fun, or...
-I should say not. It's my business.
I sell fish to all these gents around here.
Does it pay?
It's a clean business. Lots of water.
I just got a cranky old boat now,
but I put in for a loan, and when I get it,
I'm going to start really big.
-What loan? What do you mean?
-A bank loan I applied for.
Gonna get new equipment,
high-powered motor boat.
You know, I can make $700 or $800 a month,
just like that.
How much did you...
I mean, how much of a loan do you need?
You considering financing me?
Sure. Just a minute, here's my contribution.
-What kind of a joke's this?
-It's no joke. It's your quarter.
-You left it on the table.
-Now, wait a minute. I was a customer,
you waited on me.
It's the usual thing to leave a tip.
I know. I'm not angry. It's just that, well,
suddenly I felt that I couldn't take it.
Not from you. Please, take it back.
Well, that can only mean that
you consider me more than a customer.
-No, don't.
-Why? Somebody else?
No, not somebody, something.
I can't tell you.
I don't want to get involved, not now.
Maybe someday I'll tell you.
You know you lied to me, don't you? You
said there was somebody waiting for you.
Well, weren't you?
I said no.
He's nice.
His eyes are so honest and his voice, soft.
And his fingernails are clean.
From all that salt water, I guess.
Maybe it isn't a bad idea.
$700 to $800 a month.
If I could only get that money.
No, I must wait. I'll wait.
-Well, I don't know what to do.
-It's getting late.
Yeah, sure it's getting late. I'm losing
my shirt, so you are getting tired, huh?
It's only money.
Sure, it's only money.
As long as it's my money, you don't mind.
Double or nothing.
What's the difference to you?
You have no risk. Come on.
-It's no use. Whatever you do, it's no use.
-It's going bad, huh?
He's losing like mad. How can he stand it?
Well, he's not used to losing. Always lucky.
He thinks it can't be otherwise.
Look at that, look at that!
The devil must have shuffled the cards!
Complete hand, 30, 60, 80.
You said double or nothing.
Where is the money?
I hope I'm good for a few grand.
Come on, another game.
Double or nothing. Come.
Now, look here, Damitrof,
when you have your lucky hand,
you always ask for the money.
Yes, but this is my joint.
I mean, I can't run away with that.
It's not enough security, or what?
It's like cash! So, come on.
-Double or nothing. Deal!
-I have to get up early tomorrow.
Be a sport. Come on. You deal.
Double or nothing.
Well? All right.
Mary, why don't you go home? You deal.
And tell Bill not to forget the...
I won't cut this time. Maybe it'll be...
Tell Bill to... What did I want to say?
I don't know.
It was frightful. He looked like a madman.
His eyes were bloodshot
and his face was red.
I felt sorry for the poor guy.
Well, gambling is a gamble.
He should know what he's doing.
But everybody says how lucky he is in cards.
Well, the only sure thing about luck
is it can change.
Hey, that's not bad, what I just said.
-You're a great brain.
-Yeah.
I wanted to ask you something.
That business of yours,
I mean, the fish business, is it very risky?
Can you lose your investment?
I don't know how, unless I bring home
foul fish every day,
or people stop eating fish.
I guess so. If the bank's willing
to give you a loan, it must be.
What is this? Are you trying to kid me, or...
I don't get you.
It was just a thought.
You see, I have a girlfriend in my hometown,
a widow with a lot of money.
And, well, she asked me to look around
and see if I could find a good, solid deal.
So I thought I'd write to her
and tell her about you and...
Well, thanks, Mary, but I'm afraid
it'd take too much time before...
What I mean is, you see,
I think the bank loan will come through
in two or three weeks.
Two or three weeks? Maybe she could
have it even sooner. Who knows?
You know, you got eyes like a cat.
They shine in the darkness.
Mary, I'm crazy about you.
Wait, would you go 50-50
if she gives you the money?
50-50 on a loan for $5,000? Are you crazy?
All I have to do is pay the bank interest
around 6%. 50-50, my foot!
'Course, for you, I might go 50-50.
Maybe even 60-40.
Sixty for whom?
For you, of course.
Maybe even 70-30.
80-20.
90-10.
It's a deal!
I'm sorry, Mr. Damitrof,
but I left my keys in my apron pocket,
and I didn't want to wake up
the landlady this late.
I'm so sorry, Mr. Damitrof. Is it that bad?
Bad? It's finished.
-It can't be that bad.
-No?
I don't even have the few bucks to pay you.
It's gone. Everything is gone.
Tomorrow, I must clear out.
-You mean you lost your business?
-Everything.
I lost my business, my liquor license,
my policy, my cash. That's not all.
-Well, what else is there?
-I signed a bad check.
I don't know why. I lost in my head.
That means jail.
I did something like this before.
That means jail as sure as I sit here.
I don't understand it.
Well, you were always so lucky.
-How could you lose so much at once?
-I don't know.
It started so innocently, 20 bucks a game.
I was losing for a while, so what?
A gambler must be used to these things.
That crook!
He looks like the devil!
I lost all my cash.
Tomorrow is payday,
so I wanted to win it back.
I started chasing my own money,
that's the trouble!
Double or nothing, double or nothing!
It's like a nightmare! Double or nothing!
Double or nothing!
$100, $200, $400, $800, $1,600, $3,200,
it mounts, it mounts,
and now you expect that
the luck must turn your way.
The luck can't stay with a guy
for five and six hours.
But, no, it stays with him
for seven and eight hours!
You shuffle the cards, you cut,
you don't shuffle, you don't cut,
it's all the same. He gets the good cards,
and you pick up all the trash!
Every card you pick up,
it's trash, trash, trash!
So you lose your head,
you bet and bet and feed that monster
sitting there like... Like a stone wall!
What's the use?
Against bad luck, you are helpless.
That crook!
He's cruel.
He'll put me in jail. I'm sure he will.
How much is it? I mean, the bad check?
5 grand.
And if you get the money by tomorrow
morning, will it save you from jail?
Sure, but where shall I get it?
I'll give you the money.
What kind of a joke is that?
I wouldn't joke with you at a time like this.
You were nice to me, and I trust you.
You help me, and I'll help you.
And don't ask any questions. Where is there
a pencil and a piece of paper?
Now, look,
you know where Jackson Avenue is?
-Sure.
-I mean Jackson and Oak Drive.
There's a little drugstore on the corner.
From there, you drive three blocks
to Rozario Road.
Wait, I'll write it down.
There's some sort of a dead-end,
a railroad block with a stop sign.
Yeah, and take the shovel with you.
There's one in the garage.
What is it? What are you smiling at?
Sure, it's you.
The girl who robbed old Gregory.
I knew I saw your picture somewhere.
Sure, in the papers. What a girl!
Now, Mary, don't be silly. You can trust me.
I wouldn't give you away.
Look, I need you, and you need me.
You said it yourself.
You will save me from jail, and you need
somebody to get you the dough.
Don't you trust me?
Mary, don't you?
Well, as I was saying,
there's a railroad block with a stop sign.
You step over it and walk up hill to
the forest. Now, watch, here's the first tree.
Just a little to the left, you pass the first,
second, third, fourth, and at the fifth tree,
you walk inside to the right,
up into the forest.
And then, you start counting again,
one, two, three, four, five.
Now, the tree's marked.
I carved a capital "M" in it.
There you start digging,
just a little to the right as you stand.
Not too deep, about seven or eight inches.
And there you'll find a tin box. Don't open it.
Bring it to me, and I'll give you your share.
Stop that monkey business and go!
Say, what happened to you?
Where's the money?
You tell me, you sly little fox.
Changed your mind?
Got cold feets on me, huh?
Made a fool out of me.
-You mean, you didn't find it?
-Stop acting.
I knew it. I knew it right away that
you quickly made up a story,
with your five trees to the left,
five trees to the right.
And, l, idiot, believed you.
Get out! Get out, I said! Leave me alone.
Are you sure you found the right place?
-You didn't make a mistake?
-Yeah, yeah, yeah. I made a mistake.
I dug in about a dozen of places
to make sure.
Don't give me that nonsense. Get out!
You mean, you didn't find it?
Maybe you made a mistake.
Stop acting and get out! Get out, I said!
Cursed money will never bring you luck.
I'm sorry, young lady, but you simply
can't take the law into your own hands.
I dug in about a dozen places to make sure.
Don't give me that nonsense. Get out!
Get out, I said!
You didn't find it? You didn't find it?
-Are you looking for somebody?
-Yeah.
The trouble is, I only know her first name.
It's Mary. She's a waitress.
-Yes, I know. But she's sick in bed.
-What's wrong with her?
Well, I don't know.
She doesn't say anything,
-and she doesn't eat for three days now.
-Well, haven't you called a doctor?
She doesn't want anyone.
All she wants is to be left alone.
Which room is hers?
Well, she doesn't want to see anybody.
She told me so,
and besides, she sleeps a lot,
and I don't want to wake her.
Look, I'm a friend of hers.
I just got back from a fishing trip.
I went to that place where she works,
to see her, but it's closed.
Well, maybe she doesn't know that.
There's a sign on the door,
"New management, re-opening soon."
Look, tell her that Johnny called to see her.
You got that?
-Yes.
-I got to go now.
I'm due back at my boat.
Well, what can I do for you, beautiful?
Well, I was just wondering.
Are you the new owner?
No, no. Just the new manager.
Well, you see,
I worked here for a few days and...
Can you tell me what happened
to the former owner, Mr. Damitrof?
I don't get you, honey. It's still his place.
He's just a little tired of it, that's all.
He wanted to take things easy for a change.
Have some fun. I think I've seen you
here before. Why'd you quit?
I was sick for a few days.
Well, if you want to see Mr. Damitrof,
he moved to that swanky apartment house
on Jackson, across from the park.
They call it the Shangri-La.
He's throwing a big party out there tonight,
kind of a housewarming, you know.
And he's short on dames.
He'd be glad to see you, I know.
Thanks.
Double-crosser! That cheap crook!
Mr. Damitrof. Second floor.
Who wants champagne?
Who wants French brandy?
Just imported. Come and get it.
You should try to drink it together.
-Take a little brandy.
-Thanks.
Champagne. Champagne.
Here. Who else? Where's my glass?
Do you have a glass there?
Wait, I'll try it this way.
Puffy, now you're going to be sick.
Don't worry about me. I know what...
See?
Now you see, I told you.
Come on and sit down. Come on, now.
Now, hold it. Come here.
Now!
Smooch!
Where's my glass?
They're having a good time with my money.
For my three years in jail.
Smooch! Don't leave me alone. Come...
Be right back.
Smooch!
Say, you! Do you hear?
Mr. Damitrof! Mr. Damitrof! Wake up.
You've got to answer some questions.
Wake up!
Remember me?
Remember the little fool that trusted you,
who believed that you were an honest man?
Don't sleep! Wake up!
What did you do with my money?
Give me back my money.
What did you do with it?
I can't breathe. Let me go! Let me go!
Let me go!
You little darling.
I knew you were after him, you brat!
You want to get
yourself a rich boyfriend, eh?
Well, that's the best way, when he's out
and can't remember what he did.
Wait! Look.
You killed him.
I don't care. He had it coming to him.
What are you talking about?
What did he do to you?
I sent him to the place
where I had my money hidden,
and he came back
pretending that he didn't find it, and...
And he had a great time,
laughed and had fun with my money.
You fool! That wasn't your dough.
I know, I was there when he got it.
He was desperate,
wanted to kill himself before going to jail.
Then came a fur merchant, the very next
morning, a Turk with a lot of moolah.
Puffy took a long shot, started the game
without a cent in his pocket.
It was like a miracle. He took every hand.
Took that Turk for 48 grand, just like that.
Now that's the truth, you fool.
So what are you talking about?
I'd better call the police.
Hey, wait!
Roots. Roots. How was it?
What did the old gardener say
about the roots?
When young trees are growing,
their roots have such power,
they push away every obstacle.
Yes, what is it, young lady?
-Are you the officer in charge?
-Well, what do you think I am, a bookie?
-I killed a man.
-Sit down. I'll be right with you. What?
-What did you say?
-I killed a man.
How did you kill him?
With an empty champagne bottle,
right here on the temple.
Wait, let's get this straight.
What's your name?
Mary Adams.
-Occupation?
-Waitress.
-Now, who did you kill?
-My employer, Mr. Damitrof.
I don't know his first name,
but his girlfriend calls him Puffy.
He has a little bar on Franklin Beach.
-Well, where does he live?
-He doesn't live. I told you, I killed him.
I mean, what's his address?
The Shangri-La Hotel on Jackson Avenue,
I think.
That's where I killed him this morning,
between 4:00 and 5:00.
Give me the Shangri-La on Jackson.
Go ahead, sit down.
Shangri-La?
Do you have a man named Damitrof living...
I mean, registered at your place?
Yeah. Well, can you give me his apartment?
Hello.
This is the police.
Is this Mr. Damitrof's apartment?
Is it true that he was murdered?
Wait, I'll let you talk to the body.
-For you. The police.
-The police? Hello.
Yes, that's me. Dragomie Damitrof.
What? Am I dead?
I've got your killer right here in front of me.
Well, if you say so, then I've got to
believe you. Sorry to have bothered you.
Now listen, you screwy little lady.
Either you lay off that bad liquor,
or we'll put you in jail.
You mean you really talked to him?
He's alive?
Now you get out of here, but quick,
before I change my mind.
Tell me, what happened?
I don't know.
You must have turned in your sleep,
and when you fell,
you cut your face on an empty bottle.
I was in the bathroom and when I came out,
there you were, on the floor.
You see. Empty bottles are very dangerous.
From now on, no empty bottles in my house.
So he's alive,
and I, a fool, gave away the money.
The money! My money!
Smooch!
-Yes, what do you want?
-I asked you an hour ago for a drink.
No drink.
If you want a glass of fresh water, all right.
Water. When I get up, remind me to kill you.
Sister Alberta! Sister Alberta!
Look! Look!
Sure. I knew it was you. How are you, Mary?
-Hello, Mr. Damitrof.
-How do you feel?
-Fine. Just fine.
-You look wonderful. It's a nice dress.
-$7.50.
-On you, it looks like $8.50.
It's hot, huh? What is it? This here?
I played with a kitten.
It scratched me. Little beast.
You still angry with me?
-Why should I be angry?
-Well, I can understand it.
I behaved badly, I lost my temper,
but you were so right.
Why should you trust me, a no-good guy,
a gambler?
-What are you going to do now?
-I don't know.
Well, if you want to work for me, any time.
I'm re-opening next Saturday.
The place will be newly decorated.
The prices will go up, of course.
Say, how about working for me
as a hostess? That's an idea.
That would be wonderful.
You're so nice, Mr. Damitrof.
Someday, should you trust me more,
then you can tell me
the right place where the money is hidden,
and I get it for you.
No reward, of course. I don't need it now.
I'm afraid you'll laugh.
I gave the money away for charity.
-That's a good one.
-I told you you would laugh.
Mary! So happy to see you well again.
Going out on a fishing trip.
How about you coming with me?
It'll do you good.
Come on, be a sport.
I've got fresh hamburgers, cold beer,
a phonograph with beautiful records
and a shawl to put around your shoulders
when the wind starts blowing. I love you.
What do you think, Mr. Damitrof?
Should I go?
-Mary, come on.
-Well, I'd like to say
what can you expect from him?
I've my Cadillac waiting here.
We can go somewhere, have a few drinks,
go to the races,
but I think you are a nice girl.
You deserve something more solid, huh?
I think you should go. Wait!
I'm too generous.