My Forbidden Past (1951) Movie Script
Goodbye. Till tomorrow.
No, I'm taking a boat
to South America tonight.
How long will you be gone?
A couple of months.
I got the university to send me.
Why didn't you tell me?
I wanted to cut it sharp
with a knife. But why?
You know why. I don't like hiding.
Why?
Come with me.
Just like that? Just like that.
The captain will marry us
on the boat.
Mark, it sounds so crazy
and wonderful but...
You won't say a word to anybody,
you'll go and pack and meet me
on the boat at eight o'clock.
Will I, Mark? Will you, Barbara?
Yes!
WOMAN: Barbara, you're late.
I'm sorry, Aunt Eulah.
Come here for a moment, my dear.
We are having company for dinner.
I have invited Monsieur Duchaine.
Monsieur Duchaine is a fine man, my
dear, a great gentleman. Yes, Aunt Eulah.
It is proper
that money should be a large
consideration in your marriage.
You may wear your new dress.
Thank you, Aunt Eulah.
MAN: Thank you, Robbie.
In a hurry, Cousin?
Paul!
Yes, Mother.
We're dining at home, you know.
Aren't you wearing your new dress,
Cousin dear?
Is it necessary to pack a suitcase
to go down to dinner?
I'm going away, Paul.
Oh, that's what the suitcase is for.
Is it that research fellow, Barbara, from the
university? How did you know? I thought nobody knew.
Well, you're my favourite cousin!
Is it by any chance the boat
that sails tonight at eight o'clock?
I'd better see you off, it's not au
fait for a young lady to go alone.
What's the matter? You're not
going to tell your mother?
Her heart.
As a matter of a fact she won't have an attack
immediately, not until your entire story comes out.
You don't intend, of course, to
come back to New Orleans. Why not?
You'd be a figure of some notoriety. People
would dig into your... shall we say, ancestry.
Well, Mother's old, she hadn't
many years to live anyhow.
I don't blame you for wanting
to live your own life.
You don't blame me?
You don't blame anyone as long
as it doesn't interfere with you.
I don't know whether you should
write Dear Mark or Dear Doctor.
"Darling". Of course,
that's much more simple and direct.
Very sweet.
Very commendable.
And you will always be here,
waiting.
Mother might ask questions if you whisper with
the servants. I'll see that it gets to the ship.
Promise, Paul.
I promise, Barbara.
You'll be lovely in your new dress,
Cousin dear!
Lower your gangplank!
Lower your gangplank!
Stand by your lines!
AUNT: Nowadays, Mr Duchaine,
it's considered old-fashioned
to be proud of one's origins. Well, Madame,
I prefer to be considered old-fashioned.
I feel it's our duty to remember
our heritage and be proud of it.
SHIP'S HOOTER BLOWS
You know, Clay, whenever Barbara hears a ship's
whistle at eight o'clock, she spills her soup.
# The spirits creep
# The ghosties run
# The skeletons rattle and moan
# The goblins holler... #
Where's 39, Elisa Street?
# Takes magic to scare off
dead bones... # Thank you.
Buy a cute little skeleton for Halloween? Do I
look like a man who'd buy a skeleton? No, sir.
Why don't you look
where you're going? Why don't YOU!
# Goblins holler
on All Saints Eve... #
Is this number 39? Yes, sir.
Does a Barbara Beaurevel live here?
All the Beaurevels live here, sir.
Miss, Madame and the Mister. Thank you.
My dear man, I suggest that
you find yourself an attorney.
"Luther Toplady. Attorney at law. "
Well, Mr Luther Toplady, I don't
think you have any action against me.
I'm not even interested in you,
unless your name is Barbara.
Barbara? I've come all the way from California to see
her. Paul! Yes, Mother? I wish to see the gentleman.
Mr Toplady. From California. Your
business, please? Are you Barbara Beaurevel?
We are the only Beaurevels in New Orleans. I'm tracing
the relatives of a lady who died. A Mrs Crandall.
We have no Crandalls in our family.
This is a matter of a bequest.
I've traced a Barbara Beaurevel
to this address. Good day.
Mother, you might listen. All the diamonds in
Africa couldn't join Carrie Crandall to my family.
I'm sure you'll forgive me for asking
how you knew I meant Carrie Crandall?
I see that you have your hat... I came
3,000 miles to see Barbara Beaurevel and...
Barbara Beaurevel is dead!
Good day, Madam.
I'm afraid you don't understand our traditions. The
older I grow, the more I see, the less I understand.
Yes, I'm sure life is much more
simple in California. Aunt Eulah!
Isn't that... Goodbye, Mr Toplady!
Aunt Eulah... Barbara, do not come rushing
down the stairs, it's extremely unbecoming.
You saw the gentleman who just left this house? Yes.
You're not to see him again even if he asks for you.
He talked about your unsavoury relation. Paul!
Can't we even shake Barbara's skeleton in private?
There's some sordid bequest I said
you were dead. We don't need the money.
That's not funny, Paul. I agree. I'd like
permission to meet Cousin Philippe's boat. Alone?
It's just to meet a boat. You didn't see him
off when he left for South America. May I?
Clay wouldn't like it.
I'm not married to Clay!
He can't object if you accompany her. I shall
be happy to carry you to the boat, Cousin.
Paul is always charming! Tell Philippe he must
come to dinner! I'll see if the carriage is ready.
Paul!
Mmm?
The gangplank isn't down yet.
You know, when you're eager and excited,
you're wonderfully pretty! Am I, Paul?
I wish I had a nice dress. I could
do with some new shoes, myself.
Oh, dear, what a lucky fellow he is.
Who? My cousin Philippe, of course.
It's a pity you haven't got money,
I'd marry you myself.
Oh, that's a very interesting idea!
They're coming ashore!
You're the most attractive woman I've ever
seen. You should make something out of it.
I'm sure you'll make sure that I do!
Here he is, right in front of you.
Hello, Philippe!
How extremely nice of you to come!
Barbara insisted. Welcome home, Philippe. My dear
beautiful cousin! Aunt Eulah wants you to dinner.
How extremely kind of her.
Oh, you want to get
through customs quickly.
Paul, help Philippe. I imagine you'll
find something to do till I get back.
Mark!
Darling, it's been so long! Has it? Two months
can be a lifetime. I never knew that before.
How is your dear family(?) Oh, Corinne,
this is Miss Beaurevel. My wife.
How do you do?
How do you do? I believe you're the first
native of New Orleans my wife has met.
It's like eating the core of the
apple before taking the first bite.
I'm glad we married before coming here
if they're all as pretty as you are.
They're not, and besides,
they're most undependable,
wouldn't you say so, Miss Beaurevel? Would
you, Dr Lucas? Possibly only the great beauties.
Delighted to have seen you,
Miss Beaurevel. Goodbye.
Hello, Dean Casley. I didn't expect to
be met. I'm anxious to get your reports.
Barbara, you must be practical.
You're well out of it the man
has neither family nor money.
I admit he might be famous some day but let other
people have the fame, luxury is much more pleasant.
I don't know what's going on
under that pretty hat,
but Mother is right when she talks
about a good name. Paul...
Hmm? Do you mind if I don't come in?
I'd like to take a drive. Alone.
Don't do any thinking, it's bad for
the complexion. All right, Pappy.
Where to, Miss Barbie?
I'll tell you on the way.
Is Mr Toplady registered here, sir?
Yes. Would you ask him to come to the ladies'
parlour, please? Yes, madam. This way, Miss Barbie.
Your name IS Barbara. Wait outside the door,
Pappy. I'll be in shouting distance, Miss Barbie.
Thank you, that's a great comfort.
Won't you sit down, Miss Beaurevel?
May I get you some coffee?
No, thank you.
Do you know
what Carrie Crandall was?
She was a sister of James McDougall who
has died leaving a bequest to her heirs.
I am Carrie Crandall's
granddaughter.
Well?
I'm delighted to find someone who admits Carrie
Crandall ever existed! My aunt has been deathly afraid
that it would come out
that my grandmother was...
Such a notorious woman.
They even point at her grave
and make jokes.
Even now I'm not sure
that Aunt Eulah isn't right.
If the truth were known,
I couldn't live in New Orleans any more.
Would it be so terrible? I think I should die!
I don't think you'll be forced into an early
suicide. There's no need of court action or publicity.
Carrie Crandall's daughter entered
into a convent under a false name
and married your father
under that false name,
I have documented proof of this. Furthermore,
you resemble your grandmother greatly.
You knew her?
That's how I recognised you.
Imagine her with your complexion,
with your proud look.
I didn't know I had a proud look.
Just as she had.
She married a gambler. He left
her before the child was born.
She did whatever she had to
for the welfare of the little girl,
even to hiding her own motherhood
and love.
But she was... Yes, she was.
So if because of what she was
you refuse the inheritance... No!
In spite of your aunt's wishes you still want the
money? Yes. The estate can be easily liquidated,
it comes from gold. Is there much?
By certain standards, yes. How much?
A little over... 900,000 dollars.
When do I get it?
I'll have the papers ready
for your signature tomorrow.
At first I thought Toplady
was a silly name but now I love it!
Miss Beaurevel... Yes?
I'm not sure I like the feeling
behind your smile.
I trust you'll use the money wisely?
I will. I can promise you I will!
CLAY: Why should I finance you
in a brokerage house, Paul?
I'd be very good at it
and would make you a lot of money.
I don't need any more money.
That's where we differ.
Miss Beaurevel. Mr Duchaine has been waiting for you,
Barbara. I'm sorry. You're always worth waiting for.
Would you mind if I talked to
Barbara alone? Why, of course not.
Well? I wanted to make sure
about the costume ball tonight.
I hadn't forgotten.
I'll come by at ten. No, Clay.
There's somewhere I'd like
to go first, alone. Is that wise?
It's what I'm going to do.
There's something different
about you, Barbara.
I don't know quite how to say it.
It's as though there was a secret
that warms you.
Do you mind?
I mind nothing that you do or are.
Even the fact that my family wants
me to marry you for your money?
If being poor puts them on my side,
I'm glad they're poor.
If you'll marry me, Barbara,
I'll do anything you want. I'll be anything you want.
I like you, Clay, better than I ever have before.
Goodbye, Clay.
Say goodbye to your aunt for me.
You must be out of your mind. You WERE listening,
weren't you? Where are you going before the ball?
If you listened carefully, you'll know
I didn't even tell Clay. You'll lose him.
And then where would
your brokerage business be?
We don't approve of your going anywhere alone.
That's too bad because nobody's coming with me!
PEOPLE SING AND SHOU CHILDREN SHOUT: Trick or treat!
BOY SINGS: # Light a candle
for your loved one... #
MARK: You explain it to her, Dean.
All Souls' Eve is what you call Halloween
up north. To us it's a religious occasion
but there are enough goblins and imps
so that we don't treat it too soberly.
.. On this night one lights a candle
to one's dear departed.
Are you alone?
Isn't everyone?
You're a philosopher now? I thought you didn't
believe in these barbaric ceremonies. I don't.
Then why did you come?
My wife. Strangers like to see the
superstitious customs of this primitive society.
That's an interesting smile you're wearing. Do you
still want to cut it sharp with a knife? Cut what?
You don't remember. Suppose I do?
It was such a long time ago. A
lifetime. We barely knew each other.
We only saw each other every day for month
after month. And still I didn't know you.
That may be because you're afraid
to know yourself.
I found out one thing... Oh?
You're not much of a letter writer,
are you?
Who is?
I know something else. Fascinating.
What? You're still holding my hand.
Well, you haven't gone into a physical decline.
Then you still approve of something about me.
Beautiful hair, warm complexion, exciting
figure if a man could see it in those clothes.
But you decided it wasn't worth
waiting for. I decided?!
I suppose it wasn't you
who got married? Well?
Why did you? I know she's awfully pretty and
boats are romantic... They are. Try it some time.
I don't know why you did it,
but you couldn't have forgotten.
Not so soon. I haven't had you out
of my mind for a single heartbeat.
Darling, it's not too late.
You've been using your sex on me.
Why?
All right, you can take me home now. No, I'm not
going to be seen walking with you, even among the dead.
You're a coward!
Sure I'm a coward, I also have a wife who's with
my dean. I'd rather not lose my job or my wife.
Oh, Mark!
What did I ever do to you?
That's what you did to me, so now
I warn you, stay away from me.
That's the wrong way to tell me.
# Candles...
# Candles...
# Buy a candle...
# For your loved one
# Buy a candle for your loved one
# Place a candle at the... #
Barbara?
Where were you last night? Please don't
come into my room without permission, Paul.
Get out of my room!
After the way you've behaved,
I don't think maidenly modesty
becomes you!
Maybe I'm wrong...
maybe it does become you!
Remind me to wake you
every morning...
.. cousin dear(!)
Clay Duchaine is not a man to be put off
too long. You're not to be a marriage broker.
If you and Barbara won't look
after this family, I will!
You wanted me, Aunt Eulah?
Close the door, Barbara.
You let me worry about you wandering alone
through the streets at all hours of the night.
I wasn't wandering in the streets,
Aunt Eulah.
I was at the cemetery.
Who escorted you? I was alone.
Why alone? Because I didn't want anyone to see
me lighting a candle at my grandmother's tomb.
How did you dare? Aunt Eulah,
I don't want to hurt you,
but the tomb looked so uncared for,
covered with weeds.
It looked so lonely.
Did anyone see you?
No-one who knew us.
You might have picked another lonely
grave and kept your promise to Clay.
You no longer need to make a rich
marriage for me. What do you mean?
The inheritance, that's what it is!
No, Barbara! I'm afraid so. You
dare to associate our name with...
Mr Toplady promised me that nobody will know where
the money came from. How much is it? It doesn't matter.
Not even if it's a million dollars? A million? Just
about. You're not to take it, Barbara. I HAVE taken it.
Think what a difference it would make parties
again, servants, a new carriage and clothes for you.
And Paul may have that new pair
of shoes! Thank you, Cousin!
This is a matter of...
Don't worry, Mother!
Don't sign anything
without my advice.
People are so underhanded. I wouldn't
dream of doing anything without you, Paul!
You came to this decision
very suddenly.
It couldn't have anything to do with
meeting the new bride at the boat?
Couldn't it, cousin dear?
This is it, Miss Barbie. Are you sure? You
listen to what I tell you. Help Miss Barbie out.
PIANO PLAYS IN HOUSE
Why didn't you let him help you out, Miss
Barbie? Money's gone to your head, Pappy!
PIANO PLAYING STOPS
I hope you'll forgive me for calling unexpectedly.
I'm Barbara Beaurevel. I wouldn't have recognised you,
you look so pretty.
You play very well.
I do a lot of things very well.
Do you mind if I come in? I'm giving a little
party in honour of my aunt's birthday next Friday.
I wonder if you'd come?
I wonder if I would, too,
although it's nice of you to ask.
My husband isn't home, you know.
Yes, I know.
You ARE the girl, aren't you? Yes.
That's very interesting...
The girl he left behind
and his new bride.
That IS what you came to talk about?
Not exactly. I came to see
what you're like.
What am I like? I suppose I came
to find out if you love him.
That's very impressive
"Do you love your husband?
"If you don't, may I have him back?"
Do you love your husband?
I'm crazy about him
and he's crazy about me,
and besides that,
he MARRIED me.
How did you know about me? A girl
would have to be pretty simple
not to know when a man
is on the rebound. I see.
And then that day at the boat.
I'd never let a man see that look
in my eyes... I imagine so.
Is this yours?.. or do you meet all the boats
like that? Not all. Anything else bothering you?
I think you'd want a richer man. College
professors don't make much money. Mark will.
I'll see that he gets over this research business.
Don't worry about me. I'm worrying about Mark.
You needn't worry about Mark as long as I have
him, and I've got him! The way you say that
it sounds somehow temporary.
It's for as short
or as long as I want it.
I think I understand, Mrs Lucas.
I'm so glad you do.
It was very nice of you to call.
Are you coming to my party?
Do you still want me?
You have a beautiful figure. I know.
You should show it off dancing.
Everybody who counts will be there all the
most attractive men, even some poor ones.
You know, I might just come.
I hope so. I'm sorry I was angry.
As a matter of a fact, I'm not.
Goodbye.
Goodbye.
Thanks for classifying me with them! If you file
your research, I'll have no trouble classifying you.
You sound like Mrs Lucas. The power of a woman
is a force you scientists sometimes overlook.
Sometimes to our regret! Good night.
Like it?
It's beautiful. What's it for? We had a caller.
She asked me if I was in love with you. And?
I said I was crazy about you. So she'd like us on
exhibition. She thinks she's cleverer than I am.
As long as she introduces me
to the right people, I don't care.
When we make a show for this town,
I'll decide the date.
MARK: I'd like to see
Miss Beaurevel.
Well, our famous doctor!
Won't you come in?
I want to see Barbara. She's dining
out this evening. You're sure?
Of course I'm sure. Thanks.
Is there something I can do?
Yes... It's about the invitation.
Invitation?
You're shocked? It's an intimate party for my mother's
birthday. I didn't realise that Barbara would...
Invite a foreigner? That's
a ridiculous way of putting it.
You don't approve.
It's not a question of approving.
Before I went to South America wasn't that a matter
of disapproval? I didn't want Barbara to marry you.
Now you don't want me in your house.
You're extremely abrupt, aren't you, Doctor?
Even if it's not your house. I'm sorry, apparently
you don't think very well of me. Sure I do.
You live a very pleasant life for a man
with little charm, less talent and no honour!
When I was a boy, Mother used to say when I had trouble
with the street children, "Paul, regard the source. "
I'm following Mother's advice. I came here to
ask your cousin to kindly eat her invitation,
now I think I'll use it.
I strongly urge you not to.
Good night!
ORCHESTRA PLAYS A WALTZ
PAPPY: Monsieur and Madame Coucher.
Mademoiselle Dupres
and Monsieur Latay.
Senator and Madame Dulonier.
So you're going into business, Paul.
I may handle Clay's affairs.
It's not necessary now.
Doctor and Madame Lucas.
I'm so pleased you could come, Mrs Lucas. Good
evening, Doctor. It was dear of you to ask us.
We've met before. Under less cordial circumstances.
We're honoured. This is my cousin Paul.
Delighted, Madame.
I'm sure you don't mind if I ask your wife to dance
with me? Whatever the rules are, I'll play them.
May I have the honour?
It will be a pleasure.
I don't believe you've met my aunt.
Aunt Eulah, I'd like you to meet... You must be a
Delgar, the nose is unmistakable. This is Dr Lucas.
Aren't you related to the Delgars?
No, I always regretted it.
You're not a native at all.
Not of New Orleans - do you mind?
Of course not.
Would you take over the reception for me?
Dr Lucas has asked me to dance. Certainly.
MARK: Many happy returns.
Thank you, young man.
They're getting on very well, aren't they? That
makes it all very companionable, doesn't it?
You know, you're very beautiful
tonight, Dr Lucas.
It's just my new suit.
Aren't you going to say anything about me? You're
very beautiful tonight. You're a fool, Mark.
Thank you for a very pleasant dance. You
can't leave me on the floor, it's not polite.
I'm a Yankee no manners.
I'll scream. Go ahead!
It's just the way it used to be.
Nothing's changed between us.
Well, there's one minor item, I
have a wife. But you don't love her.
I married her. Why? She's pretty.
You once said you loved me.
Sure I was crazy about you.
I thought you were about me.
There was just the two of us nobody else.
I thought it would be like that for ever.
It should have been. Your delightful cousin let
me know just before I sailed for South America.
He told me that he'd protect you. He wouldn't
let your aunt know that you'd been out with me.
I began to look at it...
began to wonder... The secrecy,
never meeting your friends. I told
you why. You said you understood.
I only understood that it had to be everything and
nothing. That's why I asked you to marry me on the boat.
And I wanted to.
But you didn't meet me.
I suppose you just forgot.
I told you why I couldn't
in the letter. What letter?
The one you got when you sailed. I told you that we'd
be married when you got back. There was no letter.
It was Paul.
Now it's Paul who didn't write the
letter? He didn't let it get to you.
Mark, I DID write to you.
All right, suppose I believe you?
Then it's all right. You mean you,
Corinne and I can live together?
She doesn't mean anything to you.
She's my wife. Get a divorce.
What kind of people are we?
We know what kind she is. Why worry?
YOU wouldn't. She'd leave you for
the first rich man she could find!
You read people just like books, don't you?
Please don't spoil our only chance of happiness.
Happiness doesn't grow like that.
There's no use trying to explain
anything to you like an adult
so let's forget it,
let's leave it alone.
Mark...
Kiss me once before you go.
Where have you been, darling?
I wanted to dance with you.
PAPPY SINGS A LULLABY
PAPPY CONTINUES TO SING
You sent for me,
my beautiful cousin?
Tell me about the letter, Paul.
You realise, of course,
that I did it for your own good.
You're always doing things
for other people, aren't you, Paul?
Certainly. Now you can marry anybody you
please, and I don't have to marry at all!
You intend to continue living on MY money? It's all
in the family, isn't it? Yes, Carrie Crandall's family.
Vulgar language doesn't become you,
Cousin.
What's the matter, Barbara?
You can't still be in love with
that germ detective! I loathe him.
Well, that's excellent. Just between cousins, I happen
to find his wife vaguely attractive. How vaguely?
Not too vaguely.
You seemed fairly successful
with her tonight.
That was accomplished
by schoolboy lesson number one.
She seemed quite willing. Yes.
But you didn't send for me to discuss the
lush Corinne's morals... or did you? Paul...
Are you still trying to get 50,000 dollars to
start a brokerage business? I don't need it now.
You're getting no more of my money.
Barbara, don't be ridiculous!
Although you might get the money
if... If what?
I want you to make Mrs Lucas
fall in love with you.
When do I get the money?
25,000 dollars tomorrow,
the rest the day she meets you in
an... Assignation is the word. Yes.
That scientist fellow must have torn
your pride to shreds this evening.
You know, Barbara, we're only cousins and yet
we're so very much alike, but you're beautiful.
You're being paid to use your charm
on Mrs Lucas.
Fire and blood, they always go together. Let me
see his age. Four years old. In his prime, sir.
Five years. How high does he stand?
15 hands. 14 three, I'd say.
He's Arabian. Could carry a giant. He's
light-boned. He wouldn't carry my wife.
If it's size you want... Leave him
for trial, take the rest away.
Hello, Cousin,
do you think a certain young matron
will be properly entranced by the
sight of a Beaurevel on a spirited Arab?
A preliminary rendezvous
has been arranged.
I'm not interested in details. In that
case, perhaps I should drop the whole matter.
Is that what you want? No.
Then there are certain other expenses to
be met. I found a delightful old boathouse
on the Bayou St Jean.
You may have even used it yourself. It will take a
certain amount of money to make it properly enticing.
You already have 25,000 dollars. I won't touch
that. I'm treating it as a sentimental trust. Paul...
perhaps we HAD better drop...
AUNT EULAH: Barbara!
Wish me well, Cousin.
I was afraid you wouldn't come. I was afraid YOU
wouldn't. My dear lady, there's far too much at stake.
The most beautiful women in New Orleans
were at our party, you outshone them all.
What's the matter? That was my first party and
my last. Good, then I'll have you all to myself!
I don't think you understand.
I'm not going to see you any more.
You've heard gossip about me.
Whatever you've heard happened long before I met
you. It has nothing to do with you. What gossip?
Never mind. What are you trying to say?
Meeting you at the ball was so important to me.
I know it's not your problem,
it's mine. And mine alone...
And I'm not unaware of your charm.
The Beaurevel luck.
You also know I'm a married woman.
The Beaurevel luck! Exactly, you're
a Beaurevel with money, position...
I dare not see you again.
Have you considered MY feelings?
I want to stop it
before there are any feelings.
I see. Oh, how charming!
Corinne, you're right,
we won't see one another again.
Oh, no!
Well, what I mean is,
maybe we shouldn't be too hasty.
Maybe it won't be as difficult as I
thought. No, it won't be difficult at all.
Every year, our budget becomes larger. Because
every year there are more students, more teachers.
I suppose progress is costly. By the way,
how's Lucas making out? Fine a good man.
I'm delighted to hear that. I was
a little worried. About what?
It's nothing of any consequence. Lucas's
background is perhaps not the most desirable,
but it's of no consequence.
What about Dr Lucas's background? It's ridiculously
inadequate for the importance of the position he holds.
He worked as a common labourer on the docks one
time. Yes, so he could study medicine at night.
I'm glad to see you so vigorously
defend one of your faculty,
however Lucas's contract is up soon and you
might want to find someone more suitable.
But Dr Lucas has a brilliant future. Some day you'll
be proud we had him on our Faculty. I hope you're right.
I hope I'm not disturbing you.
Close the door quietly, please,
I don't want any little gusts
of air.
You made me miss!
I'm extremely sorry. Not at all.
A mathematical experiment?
No, it's a gambling game.
I paid my way through college
with it. Sit down, please.
But that's your chair. It's my only chair
but you're trustee of the university.
I happen to have a friend...
You're a lucky man.
This friend has noticed
that Miss Beaurevel seems to take rather a dangerous
interest in you, if I may be blunt. Oh, do be blunt.
Well, there you are.
Where?
A Creole would understand.
I come from upstate New York.
Coffee, Mr Duchaine? No, thank you.
I'm in a position to secure for you a full
professorship at any of several Northern universities.
May we be blunt again, Mr Duchaine?
By all means.
You're bribing me to relieve Miss
Beaurevel of my dangerous presence.
I'd much rather you didn't put it that
way. I know. We Northerners are so crass.
So how much would you pay me
in addition to the job?
You leave me at a loss, Lucas.
I come from a very old
and honourable family in New York
and my honour is necessarily
expensive. Would, er...
5,000 dollars be too much
for your mythical friend?
5,000 dollars is a lot of money.
Let's be business-like, Mr Duchaine.
5,000, yes or no? Very well.
I'll arrange for you to leave this university at
once. Do they still have duels in New Orleans? Why?
When you realise what a fool you've been, you may
want to challenge me. You've been laughing at me.
Forgive me, there's so little to laugh at around
here, unless you want to join me in a game of chance.
Gently with the door, please,
it deflects the cards.
Hello, Cousin. Get out of my room! Happily, as
soon as you've given me a cheque for 25,000 dollars.
I gave it to you. You promised me
a similar amount
when a certain transaction
was concluded. And you have?
The esteemed Dr Lucas will not be
dining at home this evening.
He will be working in his laboratory
through the night. How elevating!
Don't be charming, Paul. I can't help it.
Even when you slapped me, I was charming.
What do women see in you?
You nauseate me!
Corinne will meet me at 9:30 and may I say that she
would have come sooner if she could have got away.
All right, Paul. And the cheque?
Tomorrow.
Amazing, isn't it? I trust you.
We're both nauseating people,
aren't we, Cousin?
I must get a lock for that door.
That's the wrong door to lock.
Look, I'm busy. Say whatever you
came to say and then leave me alone.
This probably won't interest you
but... Probably not.
I remember your telling me
how cheap I was... Yeah, I remember.
That's why you ought to lock
your door at home.
I think you'd better be
very careful of what you say next.
I will be
only the exact truth.
While you're here saving humanity, your
wife is out with another man, being human.
Your stories are like anonymous letters.
People pay very little attention to them.
Do you remember a certain boathouse
on the bayou? Vaguely. That's where.
Now may I get back to work?
Of course you may...
if you can!
Hell hath no fury...
MARK'S WORDS ECHO
'Happiness doesn't grow like that.
'There's no use trying to explain anything
to you like an adult so let's forget it. '
MR TOPLADY: 'I'm not sure I like
the feeling behind your smile.
'I trust you'll use the money
wisely. '
PAUL: 'We're both nauseating people,
aren't we?'
May I have some more wine?
Do you need some more?
Paul, don't. Why not? You came
to meet me in a deserted boathouse.
No!
I don't like cheap affairs. Neither do I.
Darling, you're just what I've always looked for.
I'd want to marry you even if you
weren't a Beaurevel and were poor.
That's sweet but I never discuss marriage with
married women. I could get a divorce. For me?
Yes, darling. I'm constitutionally opposed to
marriage. I don't see why that should spoil our evening.
But I do. No, you don't. No! I told
you I don't like cheap affairs.
I see how Lucas got caught. He was the
first step up the ladder for you. Paul!
I don't intend...
I'm sorry, Corinne.
I didn't mean to...
Corinne.
Corinne!
Mark.
Go on home.
Go on home and stay out of this!
DOOR CLOSES
Hello, Barbara. I suppose
you're annoyed with me.
I had a change of heart and failed to keep the
appointment at the boathouse. I was there, Paul.
I saw you run away.
It was an accident. You killed her.
I told you it was an accident!
I had no intention of even hurting her. Mark
found the body. Did he see me? What did he say?
He told me to go home.
To stay out of it.
Yes...
Very proper.
He'll protect your fair name.
Association with the better families of New
Orleans has taught him the manners of a gentleman.
They'll think he did it.
Yes, they will.
In any event, he'll find himself
in a rather unpleasant situation.
What are you going to do?
Me?!
Remember that you're equally involved,
and perhaps in a more distasteful fashion.
Are you going to the police?
Why, of course not!
If I'd admitted to this affair
there wouldn't be a decent house
in New Orleans open to us.
And I don't think
you're going to the police.
You don't want the newspapers
to know about your unholy ancestry!
They'd realise that you come
by your depravity quite honestly!
We spent the evening at home. You were playing the
piano I heard you. And I was reading you saw me.
A very good book, too!
Barbara dear, no-one is worth
so much worry.
Look at our acquaintances and our
friends revolting, aren't they?
This research fellow
isn't even one of our circle.
Barbara, forget them, all of them.
Let's consider ourselves.
You once said we were
nauseating people. You were right.
Of course!
Good night, Cousin.
But if Lucas did it, why did
he call the police? Don't be naive.
He wanted to avoid suspicion. He killed
his wife... I refuse to believe he's guilty.
Even you must believe that this
has somewhat vitiated his merit.
I rescind Dr Lucas's contract.
See that he leaves at once. Surely you realise the
injustice of this? My fellow trustees agree with me.
Gentlemen?
Good day, Dean. Good day, sir.
I'm sorry, Dean.
Good day, sir.
KNOCK AT DOOR
Come in.
Come right in.
Wouldn't you like one
of my little pets as a keepsake?
The inquest is tomorrow.
I know.
I've been setting MY house in order,
how about yours?
It was an accident, but
it's my fault Paul's not yours.
I've read enough Sherlock Holmes
to be able to figure that out by myself(!) All
right, I've ruined your life and your career,
tell me what to do.
What else is there to do?
You've made a clean breast of it,
your conscience is clear.
Mark! Isn't that really why you came to
me? Do you really not know what to do?
Isn't there an absolute refusal
on your part to face yourself?
You never will, that's why our back-door
affair was held in such strict privacy.
From the beginning
you were afraid of what your charming
aristocracy might think of it. Maybe you're right.
Now you'll have all the time
in the world to think about it.
Now, if you'll excuse me, I'd like to say
goodbye to the rest of my little friends.
CORONER: Have the doors closed.
MAN: The inquest is in session.
The doors will be closed.
This is an inquisition
into the death of Corinne Lucas.
It is the responsibility of the jurors
to judge from the evidence introduced
whether the death was from
natural causes, from an accident,
or as the result of homicide.
It is not the jurors' duty to judge any of
the witnesses either guilty or not guilty,
but it is within the jurors' duties
to advise me to deliver the body of any person
whom they think is responsible for such homicide.
Call the first witness, please.
Who else was in the boathouse when you
got there? This gentleman here. Dr Lucas.
What was the attitude of Dr Lucas?
I can't seem to think
there was any attitude.
Was the room in any disorder?
Well, yes, sir.
Did it appear that there may have been a
struggle? I was certain. Thank you, Sergeant.
Next witness, please.
Doctor, the deceased was found
partly in the fireplace.
Would a fall against an andiron have
caused her death? I should say so.
Was the fall a natural one? Even an attack
of vertigo would not cause such a fall.
I don't know why in the world you came
here, Barbara. Why did you, Barbara?
Barbara's interested in
these sordid spectacles and so am I.
Thank you, Doctor, that is all.
Next witness, please.
Where did you go when you left the university? To
the old boathouse on the lake. And what did you find?
My wife was dead.
You say she died before you arrived.
That's what I say.
What made you go to the old boathouse? You had
important research scheduled for that night.
I had a premonition.
What kind of premonition?
I'm afraid it's beyond explanation.
Just a premonition?
No-one gave you information?
No-one. What did you expect to find when
you reached the boathouse? I don't know.
You had no idea that your wife might be there with
another man? Look, this is an inquest, not a trial.
You're supposed to find out facts, not
motives. You wouldn't understand my motives.
Back to your arrival
at the boathouse
you say it was empty except
for the body of your wife. Yes.
So there is no witness
for or against you? If there were,
do you think he or she
would refuse to come forward?
Careful, Barbara,
it's showing in your face.
Dr Lucas, your manner is so evasive
and your facts so uncertain,
that I feel that you are
withholding the truth from us!
May I remind you that you are in a situation
of great jeopardy. I don't need to be reminded.
Then you have nothing further
to tell this investigating body?
Nothing further.
Even though you will be taken into custody for
indictment before a grand jury? Nothing further.
Wait! Have you any evidence? Mr Coroner...
Yes, Mr Beaurevel. My cousin is overwrought.
May she be excused? The jurors will disregard this
outburst. The good name of the Beaurevels will...
The good name?
Carrie Crandall's name? I'm the granddaughter
of the notorious Carrie Crandall!
Let this witness stick to pertinent facts.
Dr Lucas's wife was dead before he got there.
My cousin Paul was with her. I bribed him
to meet her with Carrie Crandall's money.
I tried to stop it but I failed.
I was there outside when she fell,
and I saw him run away before Dr Lucas got
there. These are the facts and I swear to them.
This inquest is recessed
until ten o'clock tomorrow morning.
Spectators, please leave.
The jurors are dismissed.
Blood will tell,
my angelic cousin.
You're coming with me, Beaurevel.
Not MR Beaurevel?
You're coming along with me!
Barbara... Oh, Aunt Eulah!
If only I could have spared you this.
I warned you not to take that money.
I hope all your days will be as empty
and bitter as you have made mine.
Stay away from me and stay away from my house.
You and your grandmother are two of a kind!
Oh, Mark, take me away!
Anywhere,
wherever it is I can hide.
You can't hide,
and you can't leave here yet.
I can't bear to face anybody again.
Please!
There are a few things
that you'll have to face.
You'll be at the inquest when it
reopens. You'll have to face the people.
You'll have to face yourself
finally.
You know it just could be...
that if you do all those things,
you might turn out to be
quite a woman.
No, I'm taking a boat
to South America tonight.
How long will you be gone?
A couple of months.
I got the university to send me.
Why didn't you tell me?
I wanted to cut it sharp
with a knife. But why?
You know why. I don't like hiding.
Why?
Come with me.
Just like that? Just like that.
The captain will marry us
on the boat.
Mark, it sounds so crazy
and wonderful but...
You won't say a word to anybody,
you'll go and pack and meet me
on the boat at eight o'clock.
Will I, Mark? Will you, Barbara?
Yes!
WOMAN: Barbara, you're late.
I'm sorry, Aunt Eulah.
Come here for a moment, my dear.
We are having company for dinner.
I have invited Monsieur Duchaine.
Monsieur Duchaine is a fine man, my
dear, a great gentleman. Yes, Aunt Eulah.
It is proper
that money should be a large
consideration in your marriage.
You may wear your new dress.
Thank you, Aunt Eulah.
MAN: Thank you, Robbie.
In a hurry, Cousin?
Paul!
Yes, Mother.
We're dining at home, you know.
Aren't you wearing your new dress,
Cousin dear?
Is it necessary to pack a suitcase
to go down to dinner?
I'm going away, Paul.
Oh, that's what the suitcase is for.
Is it that research fellow, Barbara, from the
university? How did you know? I thought nobody knew.
Well, you're my favourite cousin!
Is it by any chance the boat
that sails tonight at eight o'clock?
I'd better see you off, it's not au
fait for a young lady to go alone.
What's the matter? You're not
going to tell your mother?
Her heart.
As a matter of a fact she won't have an attack
immediately, not until your entire story comes out.
You don't intend, of course, to
come back to New Orleans. Why not?
You'd be a figure of some notoriety. People
would dig into your... shall we say, ancestry.
Well, Mother's old, she hadn't
many years to live anyhow.
I don't blame you for wanting
to live your own life.
You don't blame me?
You don't blame anyone as long
as it doesn't interfere with you.
I don't know whether you should
write Dear Mark or Dear Doctor.
"Darling". Of course,
that's much more simple and direct.
Very sweet.
Very commendable.
And you will always be here,
waiting.
Mother might ask questions if you whisper with
the servants. I'll see that it gets to the ship.
Promise, Paul.
I promise, Barbara.
You'll be lovely in your new dress,
Cousin dear!
Lower your gangplank!
Lower your gangplank!
Stand by your lines!
AUNT: Nowadays, Mr Duchaine,
it's considered old-fashioned
to be proud of one's origins. Well, Madame,
I prefer to be considered old-fashioned.
I feel it's our duty to remember
our heritage and be proud of it.
SHIP'S HOOTER BLOWS
You know, Clay, whenever Barbara hears a ship's
whistle at eight o'clock, she spills her soup.
# The spirits creep
# The ghosties run
# The skeletons rattle and moan
# The goblins holler... #
Where's 39, Elisa Street?
# Takes magic to scare off
dead bones... # Thank you.
Buy a cute little skeleton for Halloween? Do I
look like a man who'd buy a skeleton? No, sir.
Why don't you look
where you're going? Why don't YOU!
# Goblins holler
on All Saints Eve... #
Is this number 39? Yes, sir.
Does a Barbara Beaurevel live here?
All the Beaurevels live here, sir.
Miss, Madame and the Mister. Thank you.
My dear man, I suggest that
you find yourself an attorney.
"Luther Toplady. Attorney at law. "
Well, Mr Luther Toplady, I don't
think you have any action against me.
I'm not even interested in you,
unless your name is Barbara.
Barbara? I've come all the way from California to see
her. Paul! Yes, Mother? I wish to see the gentleman.
Mr Toplady. From California. Your
business, please? Are you Barbara Beaurevel?
We are the only Beaurevels in New Orleans. I'm tracing
the relatives of a lady who died. A Mrs Crandall.
We have no Crandalls in our family.
This is a matter of a bequest.
I've traced a Barbara Beaurevel
to this address. Good day.
Mother, you might listen. All the diamonds in
Africa couldn't join Carrie Crandall to my family.
I'm sure you'll forgive me for asking
how you knew I meant Carrie Crandall?
I see that you have your hat... I came
3,000 miles to see Barbara Beaurevel and...
Barbara Beaurevel is dead!
Good day, Madam.
I'm afraid you don't understand our traditions. The
older I grow, the more I see, the less I understand.
Yes, I'm sure life is much more
simple in California. Aunt Eulah!
Isn't that... Goodbye, Mr Toplady!
Aunt Eulah... Barbara, do not come rushing
down the stairs, it's extremely unbecoming.
You saw the gentleman who just left this house? Yes.
You're not to see him again even if he asks for you.
He talked about your unsavoury relation. Paul!
Can't we even shake Barbara's skeleton in private?
There's some sordid bequest I said
you were dead. We don't need the money.
That's not funny, Paul. I agree. I'd like
permission to meet Cousin Philippe's boat. Alone?
It's just to meet a boat. You didn't see him
off when he left for South America. May I?
Clay wouldn't like it.
I'm not married to Clay!
He can't object if you accompany her. I shall
be happy to carry you to the boat, Cousin.
Paul is always charming! Tell Philippe he must
come to dinner! I'll see if the carriage is ready.
Paul!
Mmm?
The gangplank isn't down yet.
You know, when you're eager and excited,
you're wonderfully pretty! Am I, Paul?
I wish I had a nice dress. I could
do with some new shoes, myself.
Oh, dear, what a lucky fellow he is.
Who? My cousin Philippe, of course.
It's a pity you haven't got money,
I'd marry you myself.
Oh, that's a very interesting idea!
They're coming ashore!
You're the most attractive woman I've ever
seen. You should make something out of it.
I'm sure you'll make sure that I do!
Here he is, right in front of you.
Hello, Philippe!
How extremely nice of you to come!
Barbara insisted. Welcome home, Philippe. My dear
beautiful cousin! Aunt Eulah wants you to dinner.
How extremely kind of her.
Oh, you want to get
through customs quickly.
Paul, help Philippe. I imagine you'll
find something to do till I get back.
Mark!
Darling, it's been so long! Has it? Two months
can be a lifetime. I never knew that before.
How is your dear family(?) Oh, Corinne,
this is Miss Beaurevel. My wife.
How do you do?
How do you do? I believe you're the first
native of New Orleans my wife has met.
It's like eating the core of the
apple before taking the first bite.
I'm glad we married before coming here
if they're all as pretty as you are.
They're not, and besides,
they're most undependable,
wouldn't you say so, Miss Beaurevel? Would
you, Dr Lucas? Possibly only the great beauties.
Delighted to have seen you,
Miss Beaurevel. Goodbye.
Hello, Dean Casley. I didn't expect to
be met. I'm anxious to get your reports.
Barbara, you must be practical.
You're well out of it the man
has neither family nor money.
I admit he might be famous some day but let other
people have the fame, luxury is much more pleasant.
I don't know what's going on
under that pretty hat,
but Mother is right when she talks
about a good name. Paul...
Hmm? Do you mind if I don't come in?
I'd like to take a drive. Alone.
Don't do any thinking, it's bad for
the complexion. All right, Pappy.
Where to, Miss Barbie?
I'll tell you on the way.
Is Mr Toplady registered here, sir?
Yes. Would you ask him to come to the ladies'
parlour, please? Yes, madam. This way, Miss Barbie.
Your name IS Barbara. Wait outside the door,
Pappy. I'll be in shouting distance, Miss Barbie.
Thank you, that's a great comfort.
Won't you sit down, Miss Beaurevel?
May I get you some coffee?
No, thank you.
Do you know
what Carrie Crandall was?
She was a sister of James McDougall who
has died leaving a bequest to her heirs.
I am Carrie Crandall's
granddaughter.
Well?
I'm delighted to find someone who admits Carrie
Crandall ever existed! My aunt has been deathly afraid
that it would come out
that my grandmother was...
Such a notorious woman.
They even point at her grave
and make jokes.
Even now I'm not sure
that Aunt Eulah isn't right.
If the truth were known,
I couldn't live in New Orleans any more.
Would it be so terrible? I think I should die!
I don't think you'll be forced into an early
suicide. There's no need of court action or publicity.
Carrie Crandall's daughter entered
into a convent under a false name
and married your father
under that false name,
I have documented proof of this. Furthermore,
you resemble your grandmother greatly.
You knew her?
That's how I recognised you.
Imagine her with your complexion,
with your proud look.
I didn't know I had a proud look.
Just as she had.
She married a gambler. He left
her before the child was born.
She did whatever she had to
for the welfare of the little girl,
even to hiding her own motherhood
and love.
But she was... Yes, she was.
So if because of what she was
you refuse the inheritance... No!
In spite of your aunt's wishes you still want the
money? Yes. The estate can be easily liquidated,
it comes from gold. Is there much?
By certain standards, yes. How much?
A little over... 900,000 dollars.
When do I get it?
I'll have the papers ready
for your signature tomorrow.
At first I thought Toplady
was a silly name but now I love it!
Miss Beaurevel... Yes?
I'm not sure I like the feeling
behind your smile.
I trust you'll use the money wisely?
I will. I can promise you I will!
CLAY: Why should I finance you
in a brokerage house, Paul?
I'd be very good at it
and would make you a lot of money.
I don't need any more money.
That's where we differ.
Miss Beaurevel. Mr Duchaine has been waiting for you,
Barbara. I'm sorry. You're always worth waiting for.
Would you mind if I talked to
Barbara alone? Why, of course not.
Well? I wanted to make sure
about the costume ball tonight.
I hadn't forgotten.
I'll come by at ten. No, Clay.
There's somewhere I'd like
to go first, alone. Is that wise?
It's what I'm going to do.
There's something different
about you, Barbara.
I don't know quite how to say it.
It's as though there was a secret
that warms you.
Do you mind?
I mind nothing that you do or are.
Even the fact that my family wants
me to marry you for your money?
If being poor puts them on my side,
I'm glad they're poor.
If you'll marry me, Barbara,
I'll do anything you want. I'll be anything you want.
I like you, Clay, better than I ever have before.
Goodbye, Clay.
Say goodbye to your aunt for me.
You must be out of your mind. You WERE listening,
weren't you? Where are you going before the ball?
If you listened carefully, you'll know
I didn't even tell Clay. You'll lose him.
And then where would
your brokerage business be?
We don't approve of your going anywhere alone.
That's too bad because nobody's coming with me!
PEOPLE SING AND SHOU CHILDREN SHOUT: Trick or treat!
BOY SINGS: # Light a candle
for your loved one... #
MARK: You explain it to her, Dean.
All Souls' Eve is what you call Halloween
up north. To us it's a religious occasion
but there are enough goblins and imps
so that we don't treat it too soberly.
.. On this night one lights a candle
to one's dear departed.
Are you alone?
Isn't everyone?
You're a philosopher now? I thought you didn't
believe in these barbaric ceremonies. I don't.
Then why did you come?
My wife. Strangers like to see the
superstitious customs of this primitive society.
That's an interesting smile you're wearing. Do you
still want to cut it sharp with a knife? Cut what?
You don't remember. Suppose I do?
It was such a long time ago. A
lifetime. We barely knew each other.
We only saw each other every day for month
after month. And still I didn't know you.
That may be because you're afraid
to know yourself.
I found out one thing... Oh?
You're not much of a letter writer,
are you?
Who is?
I know something else. Fascinating.
What? You're still holding my hand.
Well, you haven't gone into a physical decline.
Then you still approve of something about me.
Beautiful hair, warm complexion, exciting
figure if a man could see it in those clothes.
But you decided it wasn't worth
waiting for. I decided?!
I suppose it wasn't you
who got married? Well?
Why did you? I know she's awfully pretty and
boats are romantic... They are. Try it some time.
I don't know why you did it,
but you couldn't have forgotten.
Not so soon. I haven't had you out
of my mind for a single heartbeat.
Darling, it's not too late.
You've been using your sex on me.
Why?
All right, you can take me home now. No, I'm not
going to be seen walking with you, even among the dead.
You're a coward!
Sure I'm a coward, I also have a wife who's with
my dean. I'd rather not lose my job or my wife.
Oh, Mark!
What did I ever do to you?
That's what you did to me, so now
I warn you, stay away from me.
That's the wrong way to tell me.
# Candles...
# Candles...
# Buy a candle...
# For your loved one
# Buy a candle for your loved one
# Place a candle at the... #
Barbara?
Where were you last night? Please don't
come into my room without permission, Paul.
Get out of my room!
After the way you've behaved,
I don't think maidenly modesty
becomes you!
Maybe I'm wrong...
maybe it does become you!
Remind me to wake you
every morning...
.. cousin dear(!)
Clay Duchaine is not a man to be put off
too long. You're not to be a marriage broker.
If you and Barbara won't look
after this family, I will!
You wanted me, Aunt Eulah?
Close the door, Barbara.
You let me worry about you wandering alone
through the streets at all hours of the night.
I wasn't wandering in the streets,
Aunt Eulah.
I was at the cemetery.
Who escorted you? I was alone.
Why alone? Because I didn't want anyone to see
me lighting a candle at my grandmother's tomb.
How did you dare? Aunt Eulah,
I don't want to hurt you,
but the tomb looked so uncared for,
covered with weeds.
It looked so lonely.
Did anyone see you?
No-one who knew us.
You might have picked another lonely
grave and kept your promise to Clay.
You no longer need to make a rich
marriage for me. What do you mean?
The inheritance, that's what it is!
No, Barbara! I'm afraid so. You
dare to associate our name with...
Mr Toplady promised me that nobody will know where
the money came from. How much is it? It doesn't matter.
Not even if it's a million dollars? A million? Just
about. You're not to take it, Barbara. I HAVE taken it.
Think what a difference it would make parties
again, servants, a new carriage and clothes for you.
And Paul may have that new pair
of shoes! Thank you, Cousin!
This is a matter of...
Don't worry, Mother!
Don't sign anything
without my advice.
People are so underhanded. I wouldn't
dream of doing anything without you, Paul!
You came to this decision
very suddenly.
It couldn't have anything to do with
meeting the new bride at the boat?
Couldn't it, cousin dear?
This is it, Miss Barbie. Are you sure? You
listen to what I tell you. Help Miss Barbie out.
PIANO PLAYS IN HOUSE
Why didn't you let him help you out, Miss
Barbie? Money's gone to your head, Pappy!
PIANO PLAYING STOPS
I hope you'll forgive me for calling unexpectedly.
I'm Barbara Beaurevel. I wouldn't have recognised you,
you look so pretty.
You play very well.
I do a lot of things very well.
Do you mind if I come in? I'm giving a little
party in honour of my aunt's birthday next Friday.
I wonder if you'd come?
I wonder if I would, too,
although it's nice of you to ask.
My husband isn't home, you know.
Yes, I know.
You ARE the girl, aren't you? Yes.
That's very interesting...
The girl he left behind
and his new bride.
That IS what you came to talk about?
Not exactly. I came to see
what you're like.
What am I like? I suppose I came
to find out if you love him.
That's very impressive
"Do you love your husband?
"If you don't, may I have him back?"
Do you love your husband?
I'm crazy about him
and he's crazy about me,
and besides that,
he MARRIED me.
How did you know about me? A girl
would have to be pretty simple
not to know when a man
is on the rebound. I see.
And then that day at the boat.
I'd never let a man see that look
in my eyes... I imagine so.
Is this yours?.. or do you meet all the boats
like that? Not all. Anything else bothering you?
I think you'd want a richer man. College
professors don't make much money. Mark will.
I'll see that he gets over this research business.
Don't worry about me. I'm worrying about Mark.
You needn't worry about Mark as long as I have
him, and I've got him! The way you say that
it sounds somehow temporary.
It's for as short
or as long as I want it.
I think I understand, Mrs Lucas.
I'm so glad you do.
It was very nice of you to call.
Are you coming to my party?
Do you still want me?
You have a beautiful figure. I know.
You should show it off dancing.
Everybody who counts will be there all the
most attractive men, even some poor ones.
You know, I might just come.
I hope so. I'm sorry I was angry.
As a matter of a fact, I'm not.
Goodbye.
Goodbye.
Thanks for classifying me with them! If you file
your research, I'll have no trouble classifying you.
You sound like Mrs Lucas. The power of a woman
is a force you scientists sometimes overlook.
Sometimes to our regret! Good night.
Like it?
It's beautiful. What's it for? We had a caller.
She asked me if I was in love with you. And?
I said I was crazy about you. So she'd like us on
exhibition. She thinks she's cleverer than I am.
As long as she introduces me
to the right people, I don't care.
When we make a show for this town,
I'll decide the date.
MARK: I'd like to see
Miss Beaurevel.
Well, our famous doctor!
Won't you come in?
I want to see Barbara. She's dining
out this evening. You're sure?
Of course I'm sure. Thanks.
Is there something I can do?
Yes... It's about the invitation.
Invitation?
You're shocked? It's an intimate party for my mother's
birthday. I didn't realise that Barbara would...
Invite a foreigner? That's
a ridiculous way of putting it.
You don't approve.
It's not a question of approving.
Before I went to South America wasn't that a matter
of disapproval? I didn't want Barbara to marry you.
Now you don't want me in your house.
You're extremely abrupt, aren't you, Doctor?
Even if it's not your house. I'm sorry, apparently
you don't think very well of me. Sure I do.
You live a very pleasant life for a man
with little charm, less talent and no honour!
When I was a boy, Mother used to say when I had trouble
with the street children, "Paul, regard the source. "
I'm following Mother's advice. I came here to
ask your cousin to kindly eat her invitation,
now I think I'll use it.
I strongly urge you not to.
Good night!
ORCHESTRA PLAYS A WALTZ
PAPPY: Monsieur and Madame Coucher.
Mademoiselle Dupres
and Monsieur Latay.
Senator and Madame Dulonier.
So you're going into business, Paul.
I may handle Clay's affairs.
It's not necessary now.
Doctor and Madame Lucas.
I'm so pleased you could come, Mrs Lucas. Good
evening, Doctor. It was dear of you to ask us.
We've met before. Under less cordial circumstances.
We're honoured. This is my cousin Paul.
Delighted, Madame.
I'm sure you don't mind if I ask your wife to dance
with me? Whatever the rules are, I'll play them.
May I have the honour?
It will be a pleasure.
I don't believe you've met my aunt.
Aunt Eulah, I'd like you to meet... You must be a
Delgar, the nose is unmistakable. This is Dr Lucas.
Aren't you related to the Delgars?
No, I always regretted it.
You're not a native at all.
Not of New Orleans - do you mind?
Of course not.
Would you take over the reception for me?
Dr Lucas has asked me to dance. Certainly.
MARK: Many happy returns.
Thank you, young man.
They're getting on very well, aren't they? That
makes it all very companionable, doesn't it?
You know, you're very beautiful
tonight, Dr Lucas.
It's just my new suit.
Aren't you going to say anything about me? You're
very beautiful tonight. You're a fool, Mark.
Thank you for a very pleasant dance. You
can't leave me on the floor, it's not polite.
I'm a Yankee no manners.
I'll scream. Go ahead!
It's just the way it used to be.
Nothing's changed between us.
Well, there's one minor item, I
have a wife. But you don't love her.
I married her. Why? She's pretty.
You once said you loved me.
Sure I was crazy about you.
I thought you were about me.
There was just the two of us nobody else.
I thought it would be like that for ever.
It should have been. Your delightful cousin let
me know just before I sailed for South America.
He told me that he'd protect you. He wouldn't
let your aunt know that you'd been out with me.
I began to look at it...
began to wonder... The secrecy,
never meeting your friends. I told
you why. You said you understood.
I only understood that it had to be everything and
nothing. That's why I asked you to marry me on the boat.
And I wanted to.
But you didn't meet me.
I suppose you just forgot.
I told you why I couldn't
in the letter. What letter?
The one you got when you sailed. I told you that we'd
be married when you got back. There was no letter.
It was Paul.
Now it's Paul who didn't write the
letter? He didn't let it get to you.
Mark, I DID write to you.
All right, suppose I believe you?
Then it's all right. You mean you,
Corinne and I can live together?
She doesn't mean anything to you.
She's my wife. Get a divorce.
What kind of people are we?
We know what kind she is. Why worry?
YOU wouldn't. She'd leave you for
the first rich man she could find!
You read people just like books, don't you?
Please don't spoil our only chance of happiness.
Happiness doesn't grow like that.
There's no use trying to explain
anything to you like an adult
so let's forget it,
let's leave it alone.
Mark...
Kiss me once before you go.
Where have you been, darling?
I wanted to dance with you.
PAPPY SINGS A LULLABY
PAPPY CONTINUES TO SING
You sent for me,
my beautiful cousin?
Tell me about the letter, Paul.
You realise, of course,
that I did it for your own good.
You're always doing things
for other people, aren't you, Paul?
Certainly. Now you can marry anybody you
please, and I don't have to marry at all!
You intend to continue living on MY money? It's all
in the family, isn't it? Yes, Carrie Crandall's family.
Vulgar language doesn't become you,
Cousin.
What's the matter, Barbara?
You can't still be in love with
that germ detective! I loathe him.
Well, that's excellent. Just between cousins, I happen
to find his wife vaguely attractive. How vaguely?
Not too vaguely.
You seemed fairly successful
with her tonight.
That was accomplished
by schoolboy lesson number one.
She seemed quite willing. Yes.
But you didn't send for me to discuss the
lush Corinne's morals... or did you? Paul...
Are you still trying to get 50,000 dollars to
start a brokerage business? I don't need it now.
You're getting no more of my money.
Barbara, don't be ridiculous!
Although you might get the money
if... If what?
I want you to make Mrs Lucas
fall in love with you.
When do I get the money?
25,000 dollars tomorrow,
the rest the day she meets you in
an... Assignation is the word. Yes.
That scientist fellow must have torn
your pride to shreds this evening.
You know, Barbara, we're only cousins and yet
we're so very much alike, but you're beautiful.
You're being paid to use your charm
on Mrs Lucas.
Fire and blood, they always go together. Let me
see his age. Four years old. In his prime, sir.
Five years. How high does he stand?
15 hands. 14 three, I'd say.
He's Arabian. Could carry a giant. He's
light-boned. He wouldn't carry my wife.
If it's size you want... Leave him
for trial, take the rest away.
Hello, Cousin,
do you think a certain young matron
will be properly entranced by the
sight of a Beaurevel on a spirited Arab?
A preliminary rendezvous
has been arranged.
I'm not interested in details. In that
case, perhaps I should drop the whole matter.
Is that what you want? No.
Then there are certain other expenses to
be met. I found a delightful old boathouse
on the Bayou St Jean.
You may have even used it yourself. It will take a
certain amount of money to make it properly enticing.
You already have 25,000 dollars. I won't touch
that. I'm treating it as a sentimental trust. Paul...
perhaps we HAD better drop...
AUNT EULAH: Barbara!
Wish me well, Cousin.
I was afraid you wouldn't come. I was afraid YOU
wouldn't. My dear lady, there's far too much at stake.
The most beautiful women in New Orleans
were at our party, you outshone them all.
What's the matter? That was my first party and
my last. Good, then I'll have you all to myself!
I don't think you understand.
I'm not going to see you any more.
You've heard gossip about me.
Whatever you've heard happened long before I met
you. It has nothing to do with you. What gossip?
Never mind. What are you trying to say?
Meeting you at the ball was so important to me.
I know it's not your problem,
it's mine. And mine alone...
And I'm not unaware of your charm.
The Beaurevel luck.
You also know I'm a married woman.
The Beaurevel luck! Exactly, you're
a Beaurevel with money, position...
I dare not see you again.
Have you considered MY feelings?
I want to stop it
before there are any feelings.
I see. Oh, how charming!
Corinne, you're right,
we won't see one another again.
Oh, no!
Well, what I mean is,
maybe we shouldn't be too hasty.
Maybe it won't be as difficult as I
thought. No, it won't be difficult at all.
Every year, our budget becomes larger. Because
every year there are more students, more teachers.
I suppose progress is costly. By the way,
how's Lucas making out? Fine a good man.
I'm delighted to hear that. I was
a little worried. About what?
It's nothing of any consequence. Lucas's
background is perhaps not the most desirable,
but it's of no consequence.
What about Dr Lucas's background? It's ridiculously
inadequate for the importance of the position he holds.
He worked as a common labourer on the docks one
time. Yes, so he could study medicine at night.
I'm glad to see you so vigorously
defend one of your faculty,
however Lucas's contract is up soon and you
might want to find someone more suitable.
But Dr Lucas has a brilliant future. Some day you'll
be proud we had him on our Faculty. I hope you're right.
I hope I'm not disturbing you.
Close the door quietly, please,
I don't want any little gusts
of air.
You made me miss!
I'm extremely sorry. Not at all.
A mathematical experiment?
No, it's a gambling game.
I paid my way through college
with it. Sit down, please.
But that's your chair. It's my only chair
but you're trustee of the university.
I happen to have a friend...
You're a lucky man.
This friend has noticed
that Miss Beaurevel seems to take rather a dangerous
interest in you, if I may be blunt. Oh, do be blunt.
Well, there you are.
Where?
A Creole would understand.
I come from upstate New York.
Coffee, Mr Duchaine? No, thank you.
I'm in a position to secure for you a full
professorship at any of several Northern universities.
May we be blunt again, Mr Duchaine?
By all means.
You're bribing me to relieve Miss
Beaurevel of my dangerous presence.
I'd much rather you didn't put it that
way. I know. We Northerners are so crass.
So how much would you pay me
in addition to the job?
You leave me at a loss, Lucas.
I come from a very old
and honourable family in New York
and my honour is necessarily
expensive. Would, er...
5,000 dollars be too much
for your mythical friend?
5,000 dollars is a lot of money.
Let's be business-like, Mr Duchaine.
5,000, yes or no? Very well.
I'll arrange for you to leave this university at
once. Do they still have duels in New Orleans? Why?
When you realise what a fool you've been, you may
want to challenge me. You've been laughing at me.
Forgive me, there's so little to laugh at around
here, unless you want to join me in a game of chance.
Gently with the door, please,
it deflects the cards.
Hello, Cousin. Get out of my room! Happily, as
soon as you've given me a cheque for 25,000 dollars.
I gave it to you. You promised me
a similar amount
when a certain transaction
was concluded. And you have?
The esteemed Dr Lucas will not be
dining at home this evening.
He will be working in his laboratory
through the night. How elevating!
Don't be charming, Paul. I can't help it.
Even when you slapped me, I was charming.
What do women see in you?
You nauseate me!
Corinne will meet me at 9:30 and may I say that she
would have come sooner if she could have got away.
All right, Paul. And the cheque?
Tomorrow.
Amazing, isn't it? I trust you.
We're both nauseating people,
aren't we, Cousin?
I must get a lock for that door.
That's the wrong door to lock.
Look, I'm busy. Say whatever you
came to say and then leave me alone.
This probably won't interest you
but... Probably not.
I remember your telling me
how cheap I was... Yeah, I remember.
That's why you ought to lock
your door at home.
I think you'd better be
very careful of what you say next.
I will be
only the exact truth.
While you're here saving humanity, your
wife is out with another man, being human.
Your stories are like anonymous letters.
People pay very little attention to them.
Do you remember a certain boathouse
on the bayou? Vaguely. That's where.
Now may I get back to work?
Of course you may...
if you can!
Hell hath no fury...
MARK'S WORDS ECHO
'Happiness doesn't grow like that.
'There's no use trying to explain anything
to you like an adult so let's forget it. '
MR TOPLADY: 'I'm not sure I like
the feeling behind your smile.
'I trust you'll use the money
wisely. '
PAUL: 'We're both nauseating people,
aren't we?'
May I have some more wine?
Do you need some more?
Paul, don't. Why not? You came
to meet me in a deserted boathouse.
No!
I don't like cheap affairs. Neither do I.
Darling, you're just what I've always looked for.
I'd want to marry you even if you
weren't a Beaurevel and were poor.
That's sweet but I never discuss marriage with
married women. I could get a divorce. For me?
Yes, darling. I'm constitutionally opposed to
marriage. I don't see why that should spoil our evening.
But I do. No, you don't. No! I told
you I don't like cheap affairs.
I see how Lucas got caught. He was the
first step up the ladder for you. Paul!
I don't intend...
I'm sorry, Corinne.
I didn't mean to...
Corinne.
Corinne!
Mark.
Go on home.
Go on home and stay out of this!
DOOR CLOSES
Hello, Barbara. I suppose
you're annoyed with me.
I had a change of heart and failed to keep the
appointment at the boathouse. I was there, Paul.
I saw you run away.
It was an accident. You killed her.
I told you it was an accident!
I had no intention of even hurting her. Mark
found the body. Did he see me? What did he say?
He told me to go home.
To stay out of it.
Yes...
Very proper.
He'll protect your fair name.
Association with the better families of New
Orleans has taught him the manners of a gentleman.
They'll think he did it.
Yes, they will.
In any event, he'll find himself
in a rather unpleasant situation.
What are you going to do?
Me?!
Remember that you're equally involved,
and perhaps in a more distasteful fashion.
Are you going to the police?
Why, of course not!
If I'd admitted to this affair
there wouldn't be a decent house
in New Orleans open to us.
And I don't think
you're going to the police.
You don't want the newspapers
to know about your unholy ancestry!
They'd realise that you come
by your depravity quite honestly!
We spent the evening at home. You were playing the
piano I heard you. And I was reading you saw me.
A very good book, too!
Barbara dear, no-one is worth
so much worry.
Look at our acquaintances and our
friends revolting, aren't they?
This research fellow
isn't even one of our circle.
Barbara, forget them, all of them.
Let's consider ourselves.
You once said we were
nauseating people. You were right.
Of course!
Good night, Cousin.
But if Lucas did it, why did
he call the police? Don't be naive.
He wanted to avoid suspicion. He killed
his wife... I refuse to believe he's guilty.
Even you must believe that this
has somewhat vitiated his merit.
I rescind Dr Lucas's contract.
See that he leaves at once. Surely you realise the
injustice of this? My fellow trustees agree with me.
Gentlemen?
Good day, Dean. Good day, sir.
I'm sorry, Dean.
Good day, sir.
KNOCK AT DOOR
Come in.
Come right in.
Wouldn't you like one
of my little pets as a keepsake?
The inquest is tomorrow.
I know.
I've been setting MY house in order,
how about yours?
It was an accident, but
it's my fault Paul's not yours.
I've read enough Sherlock Holmes
to be able to figure that out by myself(!) All
right, I've ruined your life and your career,
tell me what to do.
What else is there to do?
You've made a clean breast of it,
your conscience is clear.
Mark! Isn't that really why you came to
me? Do you really not know what to do?
Isn't there an absolute refusal
on your part to face yourself?
You never will, that's why our back-door
affair was held in such strict privacy.
From the beginning
you were afraid of what your charming
aristocracy might think of it. Maybe you're right.
Now you'll have all the time
in the world to think about it.
Now, if you'll excuse me, I'd like to say
goodbye to the rest of my little friends.
CORONER: Have the doors closed.
MAN: The inquest is in session.
The doors will be closed.
This is an inquisition
into the death of Corinne Lucas.
It is the responsibility of the jurors
to judge from the evidence introduced
whether the death was from
natural causes, from an accident,
or as the result of homicide.
It is not the jurors' duty to judge any of
the witnesses either guilty or not guilty,
but it is within the jurors' duties
to advise me to deliver the body of any person
whom they think is responsible for such homicide.
Call the first witness, please.
Who else was in the boathouse when you
got there? This gentleman here. Dr Lucas.
What was the attitude of Dr Lucas?
I can't seem to think
there was any attitude.
Was the room in any disorder?
Well, yes, sir.
Did it appear that there may have been a
struggle? I was certain. Thank you, Sergeant.
Next witness, please.
Doctor, the deceased was found
partly in the fireplace.
Would a fall against an andiron have
caused her death? I should say so.
Was the fall a natural one? Even an attack
of vertigo would not cause such a fall.
I don't know why in the world you came
here, Barbara. Why did you, Barbara?
Barbara's interested in
these sordid spectacles and so am I.
Thank you, Doctor, that is all.
Next witness, please.
Where did you go when you left the university? To
the old boathouse on the lake. And what did you find?
My wife was dead.
You say she died before you arrived.
That's what I say.
What made you go to the old boathouse? You had
important research scheduled for that night.
I had a premonition.
What kind of premonition?
I'm afraid it's beyond explanation.
Just a premonition?
No-one gave you information?
No-one. What did you expect to find when
you reached the boathouse? I don't know.
You had no idea that your wife might be there with
another man? Look, this is an inquest, not a trial.
You're supposed to find out facts, not
motives. You wouldn't understand my motives.
Back to your arrival
at the boathouse
you say it was empty except
for the body of your wife. Yes.
So there is no witness
for or against you? If there were,
do you think he or she
would refuse to come forward?
Careful, Barbara,
it's showing in your face.
Dr Lucas, your manner is so evasive
and your facts so uncertain,
that I feel that you are
withholding the truth from us!
May I remind you that you are in a situation
of great jeopardy. I don't need to be reminded.
Then you have nothing further
to tell this investigating body?
Nothing further.
Even though you will be taken into custody for
indictment before a grand jury? Nothing further.
Wait! Have you any evidence? Mr Coroner...
Yes, Mr Beaurevel. My cousin is overwrought.
May she be excused? The jurors will disregard this
outburst. The good name of the Beaurevels will...
The good name?
Carrie Crandall's name? I'm the granddaughter
of the notorious Carrie Crandall!
Let this witness stick to pertinent facts.
Dr Lucas's wife was dead before he got there.
My cousin Paul was with her. I bribed him
to meet her with Carrie Crandall's money.
I tried to stop it but I failed.
I was there outside when she fell,
and I saw him run away before Dr Lucas got
there. These are the facts and I swear to them.
This inquest is recessed
until ten o'clock tomorrow morning.
Spectators, please leave.
The jurors are dismissed.
Blood will tell,
my angelic cousin.
You're coming with me, Beaurevel.
Not MR Beaurevel?
You're coming along with me!
Barbara... Oh, Aunt Eulah!
If only I could have spared you this.
I warned you not to take that money.
I hope all your days will be as empty
and bitter as you have made mine.
Stay away from me and stay away from my house.
You and your grandmother are two of a kind!
Oh, Mark, take me away!
Anywhere,
wherever it is I can hide.
You can't hide,
and you can't leave here yet.
I can't bear to face anybody again.
Please!
There are a few things
that you'll have to face.
You'll be at the inquest when it
reopens. You'll have to face the people.
You'll have to face yourself
finally.
You know it just could be...
that if you do all those things,
you might turn out to be
quite a woman.