The Gilded Age (2022) s01e02 Episode Script
Money Isn't Everything
1
[TV STATIC DRONES.]
[BRIGHT TONE.]
[SPIRITED ORCHESTRAL MUSIC.]
[INDISTINCT CHATTER.]
[DRAMATIC MUSIC.]
Did you think we'd forget about you? I can't give you what I haven't got.
- Find it! - [GASPS.]
But I can't.
Get the money.
I'll be back to collect it tomorrow.
[DOG BARKING.]
[BELL RINGS.]
At this rate, I shall have more clothes than the Princess of Wales.
But if Mrs.
Van Rhijn insists - Who am I to object? - [CHUCKLES.]
It's good of you to keep me company.
I don't mind.
At least, I think it's ridiculous that you're not allowed to walk out on your own.
But it gives me a chance to get some air.
Now for the sleeves.
By the way, someone from home is coming to the city.
- Oh? - I got a letter this morning.
- [BELL RINGS.]
- A friend from Pennsylvania? Not exactly.
The lawyer who managed my father's affairs when he died.
Is it about business? It may be.
He doesn't really say.
Will you let him visit 61st Street? Why? Would that be very shocking? It's not that, although Mrs.
Van Rhijn may think so.
But, uh, I might want to ask his advice.
Really? Any colored lawyer would find his way back to my father, and he can't know about it.
I'm not sure Mr.
Raikes would do it.
- But I can always ask.
- Excuse me And he studied law in Pennsylvania? I presume so.
Is this for your writing? No, it's a personal matter.
- Raise your arms, please.
- How is the writing going? Are you getting much done? I think so.
I sent out query letters.
To which publications? No, I'll tell you once I hear back from them.
I don't want to risk bad luck.
Well, I hope Mr.
Raikes can be of help.
I also hope he hasn't turned up a pile of Daddy's debts.
What can you mean? Of course I haven't called on Mrs.
Russell.
Marian, I hope you don't encourage her in this.
I don't.
What do you know about the Russells' daughter, Glenys? Is she out? Do people like that bring their daughters out? I thought they just sold them to the highest bidder.
She's called Gladys, not Glenys.
And I don't think she is out yet.
- But she's very nice.
- How do you know? I met her with Aurora Fane.
Aurora skates so close to the edge.
Do you know this Gladys well enough to ask her to luncheon? - Not really.
- I should think not.
Agnes, you can't have anything against an innocent young girl.
I am opposed to her tribe.
- Is this for sending up? - Right there.
[SOBBING.]
Are you quite well, Mrs.
Bauer? Why wouldn't I be? You seem upset.
Oh, I've been chopping onions.
Miss Scott, have you been working with Mrs.
Van Rhijn? Yes.
Suppose you think that makes you a sort of secretary.
She is a secretary and not a "sort of" anything, which puts her above you in the pecking order, Miss Armstrong.
Mr.
Oscar's good-looking, isn't he? I saw him when he left.
Mr.
Oscar's interested in one thing only, - and you haven't got it.
- What's that? - Money.
- Don't bash her down.
She only said he was good-looking, and so he is.
I wonder if they'll try to set him up with Miss Marian.
He wants an heiress, the richest he can find.
And Miss Marian hasn't a penny to her name.
If you've finished demolishing the characters of every member of this family, John and I will serve luncheon.
- Are you ready, Mrs.
Bauer? - I am.
[ELEGANT MUSIC.]
[SOBBING SOFTLY.]
Who is this Mr.
Raikes? The lawyer who settled Henry's estate.
- Do we have to receive him? - He waived his fee.
Oh, I see.
Well, let's make it tea and be quick about it.
Good.
Now we can get started.
Has Mr.
Raikes arrived in the city? He should be here by now.
Then ask him for tea tomorrow.
- You don't have to.
- Ada says he waived his fee.
- He did.
- Then you will give him tea.
You cannot be indebted to these people.
Very well, I'll ask him for half past 4:00.
Anne Morris wants me to call on her at 3:00.
She'd like me to take a stall in her bazaar.
What do you mean, take a stall? Run a stall and gather the things we'll sell.
It's for charity.
Well, I didn't think it was for profit.
They're joining the Dispensary for Poor Women and Children with the Infirmary for Indigent Women and Children and they'll move the whole thing to 7th Street.
That's sounds sensible, doesn't it? It sounds dull enough to be respectable, at any rate.
[QUIRKY MUSIC.]
There you are.
Do you still see Mrs.
Morris? I haven't quarreled with her, if that's what you mean.
But you don't see her? I gave her a check for her charity, which, as you so gallantly pointed out, was all they wanted from me, and I haven't heard from her since.
You know, she's married to Alderman Patrick Morris.
- So I believe.
- I'd like to meet him.
Then invite him to your office.
I want it to be informal.
- Ask him here for dinner.
- He wouldn't come.
Ask him anyway.
You're not suggesting we should go.
I'm curious as to why I'm included in her largesse.
I suspect her husband's had a hand in it.
Does that make a difference? George Russell is a force in this city, whatever you like to pretend.
But who else would be there? We could be dining with anyone.
Won't there just be the four of us? Can't you meet him at his office? It's not what he wants, is it? But how would I explain to people? Why not say you wanted to invite her onto the board of your bazaar? I don't think so.
Aurora Fane's the chairwoman again, and they had a falling-out last time.
You are joint chairwomen.
The choice is yours as much as hers.
I'm not sure its ever successful, trying to mix different types.
You won't say as much, I hope.
Of course not.
And I'll invite her to come and support us on the day.
She can't be offended at that.
Oh, can't she? [TENDER MUSIC.]
You won't accept if Mr.
Russell makes you an offer.
I shouldn't think so.
But I'd like to know what I'm turning down.
And when Mrs.
Astor hears we've gone to their house, what then? Mrs.
Astor knows how the world works.
[DRAMATIC MUSIC.]
Thank you, Bannister.
Please tell Mrs.
Bauer I've asked Mr.
Oscar to join us for tea.
He'll be company for Miss Marian's friend, - so we'll be five.
- Very good, ma'am.
- Can Oscar get away? - He says so.
He's got a luncheon at the Union with Ogden Goelet, and he'll come straight on.
He won't go back to the bank.
Could he introduce Marian to some of his friends? He must know any number of suitable young men.
Hmm, well, John Adams wasn't exactly a roaring success.
But I agree, he must know other candidates.
Or perhaps Oscar might take a shine to her himself.
Take a shine? - I only meant she's - They are first cousins.
And she hasn't a cent.
So I'd be grateful if you would keep your servants' hall slang to yourself.
Money isn't everything, Agnes.
Ha, you say that to me after the sacrifice I made to save your skin? To save both our skins, Agnes.
[TENSE MUSIC.]
You've heard we're to entertain Alderman Morris and his wife? And if I know Mrs.
Russell, she'll want quite a show.
I've made a list of what I'll need from the store cupboard and a few things that we'll have to order in.
I'll take care of it, thank you.
Mm.
Are you starting to feel at home? I think so.
But I'm open to advice if you have any.
Oh, you look as if you know the ropes pretty well, Mrs.
Bruce.
Have you always done this kind of work? More or less.
My mother answered an advertisement for a kitchen maid when I was 12, and that was it.
You worked your way up the ladder.
Were your parents in service? Oh, no.
[CHUCKLES.]
My beginnings were very humble.
My father was a farmworker, and my mother used to pick - fruit in the fall.
- Pfft.
I never knew a world like this existed.
Well, I envy you.
- Really? - Mm-hmm.
If you offered most people the choice between a top chef and a spinster housekeeper, I know which they'd take.
It doesn't mean they'd be right.
So it will be at the Veterans' Room at the new Seventh Regiment Armory.
You're sure they'll agree? Mrs.
Druett says they'll be keen to help.
I'll call him there this week.
And we have enough stall holders? - ALL: Mm-hmm.
- I think so.
We don't want a crush.
- Have you asked Mrs.
Russell? - Hmm? We won't go down that route again.
- Precisely.
- Good.
I don't see why not.
I like her.
Careful, my dear.
Or I'll report you to Aunt Agnes.
But why keep her out? She can give more to the cause than the rest of us put together.
She's welcome to make a donation.
We're dining with her soon, and I'll try to inspire her with our work.
You're having dinner with Mrs.
Russell? At her house? Her husband has something he wants to talk about with Mr.
Morris.
Do I hear my name taken in vain? You're not to disturb our meeting.
I wonder, will you include Mrs.
Russell - among your stall holders? - Apparently not.
We still want her check, though.
We just mean to insult her first.
Her husband won't take kindly to the snub.
This bazaar is in aid of children.
We need everything to be as pure as the driven snow.
And so you mean to tangle with the men who own most of the railroads in this country? Money isn't everything.
It is when you haven't got it.
[QUIRKY MUSIC.]
[DRAMATIC MUSIC.]
Here, this is all I have.
Here, take it.
Take it, please.
Ah! I don't want your junk.
- I want the money.
- Mrs.
Bauer? - What's happening? - Huh? I'll be back to get my money.
Who was that man? Tell them to go.
Make them go.
[INDISTINCT CHATTER.]
Where did these come from? Now you know what I am.
I know you were badly frightened.
Oh, no.
I'm a thief.
A common thief.
Oh.
I was looking for Mrs.
Russell.
She's gone with Mr.
White, sir.
He's taken her to see some pictures.
I don't like the sound of that.
[CHUCKLES.]
I'm afraid women are an expensive hobby, sir.
Especially pretty ones.
I'm afraid they are.
If you could ask her to come and find me when she gets back.
Of course, sir.
You mean to settle in New York? I applied for a position.
It's a bit early to assume I'll get it.
So you might come here to live? Doubt I could manage the work from Doylestown.
But why? Aren't you happy there? Not as happy as I could be.
Good evening, Mr.
Oscar.
I like to think you'd be pleased.
Right this way.
Mr.
Van Rhijn and Mr.
Russell.
Oscar? May I present Mr.
Russell, Mama? We were at the luncheon together, and he's anxious to know you.
I'm afraid I've rather pushed into your tea party, Mrs.
Van Rhijn.
Don't worry.
We have so much cake.
Are you anything to do with the Russells who live across the road? - I'm one of them.
- Oh.
This is my sister, Miss Brook, and my niece, Miss Marian Brook.
Hello.
And Mr.
Raikes is visiting from Pennsylvania.
But now I suppose you'd better have some tea.
- How do you do? - How do you do? Pleasure to meet you, Mrs.
Van Rhijn.
How do you know my cousin? We met in Newport with Mrs.
Fish.
And then we were both at a luncheon at the Union Club today.
I didn't tell him you and I had already met.
I'm glad to see you here.
Judging by your aunt's face, it'll be a while before you see me here again.
[QUIRKY MUSIC.]
It is a small town.
And, of course, nothing like You just have to get them back into the silver cupboard.
But how will I manage it? How will you manage what? Tell me.
You don't want to be involved.
You don't know what I want.
[SIGHS.]
Tell her.
I couldn't be more ashamed than I am already.
[SOLEMN MUSIC.]
Wish I understood what brings you to New York.
Simple.
I want to be here.
And that's enough of a reason? Course it is.
It's always a reason when you want something enough.
When I see what I really want, I take it if I can.
I suspect that's something you should try to control if you don't intend to spend time in a police cell.
[CHUCKLES.]
So when did you decide to come to New York? It's always been a dream of mine.
It's become real comparatively recently.
I see.
I wish I could convince you that I mean to be your friend.
Oddly enough, there is something you can do for me.
There's a woman who works here who did me a very good turn, and it seems she wants your advice.
- Do you know what it's about? - No.
But she'll have a solid reason.
I should tell you, she's colored.
I see.
She's keen to see a lawyer who's familiar with the laws of Pennsylvania.
I don't know why.
"Curiouser and curiouser", said Alice.
If you don't like the sound of it, could you suggest someone who might handle cases like hers? But if even that's a nuisance, I'll understand.
I've told her it's a lot to ask.
Nothing is a nuisance if it gives me the chance to see you again.
Bring her to the Bethesda Fountain in Central Park tomorrow afternoon at 3:00.
I'll wait for you.
You're clever to know it.
I don't.
You do now.
I'll see you there.
Bye, Mr.
Raikes.
[CHEERFUL MUSIC.]
What can have possessed you? He's a very handsome young man.
You know we met in Newport.
So when I saw him at Ogden's luncheon, it seemed the obvious thing to do.
And I think we should know the Russell family.
I would go further and say I think it is mad that we don't.
You mean you want to know their daughter.
When I saw Larry again today, I asked him here for tea.
Et voilà .
While I am struggling, trying to hold back the tide of vulgarians that threatens to engulf us.
I feel like King Canute.
Your policies make as much sense as his did.
Now the mother will try to use it to push in here, you'll see.
- Has the lawyer gone? - He has.
I thought he was very nice.
I hope I'm not going to have to speak to you again, Ada.
No, Agnes.
He may be moving to New York.
He will not trouble you if he does.
What do you mean? New York is a collection of villages, my dear.
We know the people who live in our own village.
But not the ones who don't.
The Russells live in your village, Mama.
I could throw a stone from here and break their windows.
- Don't tease me.
- I'm not.
I'm stating facts.
I'm not concerned with facts.
Not if they interfere with my beliefs.
I give you prejudice in a nut shell.
Oh, stop talking to yourself and ring the bell.
- I'm going up to change.
- I doubt it, Mama.
I'd say you'll come down again without having changed at all.
[CHUCKLES.]
[QUIRKY MUSIC.]
[DRAMATIC MUSIC.]
So this is what Dido felt when she was about to throw herself - onto the flaming pyre.
- Chin up.
It'll be so awkward.
If it is, it won't be the first awkward dinner we've sat through.
Think of your Aunt Susan.
[CHUCKLES.]
Oh, you love to tease.
Mr.
and Mrs.
Morris, welcome.
[ELEGANT MUSIC.]
Do you think we should kneel? What's that? Mrs.
Morris was admiring your house.
Oh, we're still trying to get organized.
Please, come into the drawing room.
Ah, here's Mr.
Russell.
- Mr.
Morris.
- Mr.
Russell.
Where is the bazaar to be held? In the new armory on Park Avenue.
How interesting.
Mr.
White worked on that, the man who built this house.
Why didn't you choose Richard Morris Hunt? People expected us to, but I like Mr.
White.
He seems very unafraid.
He is unafraid of decoration, certainly.
[CHUCKLES.]
Did Morris Hunt build your house? He did, but for the Henry Lowells, so we avoided the pangs of childbirth.
Still, it's harder to make it one's own, isn't it, when it wasn't built for you? - Is Morris Hunt a relation? - No.
Oh, I suppose Morris is quite a common name.
This is really delicious.
I can't remember when I've eaten better.
Thank you.
I'll tell Baudin.
He'll be delighted.
Your chef is French? Isn't everyone's these days? It seems quite a luxury to me.
We feel it's worth it.
Well, don't let's overlook the cost.
Well, it's excellent, which is all that matters.
Is the armory settled now? Mrs.
Druett is sure it will be, and her husband is on the board.
If anything goes wrong, you can use the ballroom here.
We'll show you after dinner.
- You plan entertain, then? - When the time is right.
I'm afraid New York can be quite challenging at first.
Can it? We haven't found it so.
Have we, George? There is no challenge you are not equal to, my dear.
Mm.
[EXCITING MUSIC.]
- When will you christen it? - We haven't decided.
I expect you're rather sorry you settled on the armory.
There's something I'd like to talk to you about if I could detach you from the ladies for a moment.
Of course.
- Please excuse us.
- This way.
I hope you'll come to the bazaar.
I'm rather sorry I couldn't be part of it.
It seems a sensible cause for once.
I think so.
It seems the two charities were covering exactly the same ground.
Well, the offer stands.
If the armory falls through, you can always come here.
That is very generous, Mrs.
Russell.
I almost wish we would.
- Gambling? - It's mainly cards.
Street games where anyone can play if they only have a few nickels.
Why do the police allow it? I'd say they do more than allow it.
How much did she lose? Every time she tried to say the sum, the tears came.
Bridget found some brandy in the store cupboard.
Did she tell you in the end? About $50.
- That's why she was crying.
- $50? The men she owes will not be kind.
No.
I've seen that for myself.
Can't we help her? They like her so much downstairs, and I'd hate to see her sacked.
Let me think.
And don't forget our appointment tomorrow.
[SIGHS.]
What will you tell your aunts? I'll say I'm going for a walk and that I've asked you to accompany me.
And you don't mind lying to them? Don't put it like that.
I'm just trying to live my life.
[FOOTSTEPS TAPPING.]
Miss Scott, you shouldn't be doing that now.
It's far too late.
And don't let Miss Marian distract you.
I've finished for the night.
Tomorrow I want you to go through these.
Letters from assorted presidents, secretaries of state, artists in need of a patron, that sort of thing.
- How interesting.
- Hmm.
If only Mr.
Oscar agreed with you.
I do know you've taken a chance on me, Mrs.
Van Rhijn.
And I appreciate it.
Life has taught me one thing, Miss Scott.
If you don't want to be disappointed, only help those who help themselves.
And now I'm going to bed.
So there'll be another line direct from New York to Chicago.
That's it.
Through Pennsylvania.
Along the south shore of Lake Erie.
Across northing Ohio and Indiana and on to Chicago and St.
Louis.
What about the railroads that already cover the area? We can manage those.
And you want to build a new station in the city? Which is where you come in.
Even if I were able to persuade my fellow aldermen to pass the law, I don't quite see well, not to put too fine a point on it.
You mean what's in it for them? Mm.
Any shares you buy in the company now should go sky-high when the bill is passed.
But suppose it would be hard for some of us to raise the money.
I imagine you have a margin account.
Surely most of them do.
You mean we should buy shares now on margin and then pass the law? I'm not telling you to do anything.
And when it comes into law, the shares will go through the ceiling.
So there's no risk in my buying on margin, as I'll never have to raise the money to cover it.
That's what you're saying.
I repeat.
I am not giving you any kind of instruction.
This is why we're not meeting in your office.
[FOOTSTEPS TAPPING.]
You look very serious.
Not serious, thoughtful.
Well, I'm afraid you're going to have to take your thoughts home, Mr.
Morris.
Mrs.
Morris is tired.
I'm to tell you she wants to leave.
Well, I hope she's thanked you for our wonderful evening.
You'll let me know? Yes.
I'll let you know.
Congratulations, my dear.
An excellent dinner, brilliantly orchestrated.
Hmm.
I think you've caught me the fish I was after.
I'm glad.
[INTRIGUING MUSIC.]
Well, they've gone.
The master and mistress are having a drink in the library to recover, but well done, monsieur, a triumphant evening.
You hear that, Monsieur Baudin? What a comfort it is to know that all the hard work has been worthwhile.
Has it? Marian said you wanted to see me? Shut the door.
Now, I need to make one thing clear.
You are not to encourage Marian over that tiresome young man.
- Oh, but I didn't.
- Yes, you did.
"How nice he is.
What fun it will be for her to have a friend in the city".
- But it will be.
- Ada she hasn't a penny.
And I can't leave her any of the Van Rhijn money, which should and will go to Oscar.
- What will happen to me? - Oh.
Don't worry about that.
I will outlive you.
Now, as I was saying.
Marian has no income, and her birth thanks to her mother is not impeccable.
In short, without a decent marriage, she will be lost.
But he's a lawyer.
Oh, if you ask me, he's a shyster with neither background nor fortune.
It's obvious.
He sees her as a ticket out of Doylestown.
But if they like each other Marrying for money is not always a guarantee of happiness, Agnes.
I don't wish her to marry for money.
Only to marry for security, support, and, God willing, affection.
Would you deny her that? Of course not.
Then good night.
[GENTLE MUSIC.]
[CHEERFUL MUSIC.]
I'm afraid we're a little late.
I'm sure he'll wait.
How is Mrs.
Bauer today? I believe she put the silver back, but in despair about everything else.
I can find the money.
I just have to figure out how to get it without telling anyone why I need it.
- I don't believe in secrets.
- Really? I don't believe in them because they never work.
Everything always comes out in the end.
You should know.
You keep secrets better than most.
Ha! It's wonderful.
When was it built? It was finished almost ten years ago.
And the statue at the top was made by a woman.
You'll like that.
I do like it.
Who was she? Emma Stebbins, the first woman to receive a sculptural commission in New York City.
I hope you just read that in the guidebook.
- I did.
- [BOTH CHUCKLE.]
What a relief.
You scared me for a moment.
This is Miss Scott.
Good day, Miss Scott.
I gather that you wish to ask for my help.
If you don't see it as impertinent, sir.
As a matter of fact, I'm curious.
- Thank you.
- Then I'll leave you to it.
Hello, Miss Brook.
Miss Russell.
This is my mother's maid, Turner.
She's been kind enough to take me to a fitting.
Give us a moment, will you? She was really spying on me for my mother to make sure I didn't change the design.
I saw your brother yesterday.
He said.
Although he doesn't expect to be asked back anytime soon.
He had dinner with your cousin last night at the Knickerbocker.
Mr.
Van Rhijn came across the street - and they went together.
- Hmm.
He did make me laugh.
Yes, Oscar can be quite witty.
I thought he was charming.
He wanted me to join them for dinner, but, of course, it was out of the question.
How strange these rules are.
Why shouldn't you go out to dinner with your brother and a friend? What could be more normal? Not to my mother.
Look.
Is that man trying to catch your attention? I think he is.
Good day, Miss Russell.
I suspect you ought to keep an eye on her.
I will.
Is everything settled? Miss Scott is going to write to me.
You must promise to send a bill.
Don't worry about that.
And now this really is goodbye.
Had my final interview this morning and I leave for home tomorrow.
I hope you have plans for tonight.
How could I? I don't know anyone in New York except you.
[CHUCKLES.]
Well, that'll soon change if you come here to live.
New York has plenty to offer the new arrival.
But what would I have to offer New York? You'll let us know how it turns out? - Promise? - Promise.
You'll be the first person I tell.
[TENDER MUSIC.]
- Miss Scott.
- Jack.
You were in a hurry when you left this afternoon.
We were late for Mr.
Raikes and Mr.
Raikes? Miss Marian's lawyer? He returns to Pennsylvania in the morning.
She wanted to say goodbye.
I bet she did.
She took her time saying goodbye to him when he was here yesterday.
I had to leave them to it in the hall.
And where did she meet him today? The Bethesda Fountain in Central Park.
Why did you say "we" were late for Mr.
Raikes? Did I? I meant she was late.
But then why say "we"? Oh, for heaven's sake.
She kept Miss Marian company so she could say goodbye to an old friend.
You know Mrs.
Van Rhijn doesn't like her - to go out alone.
- I was just asking.
Well, don't.
Cousin Oscar, I didn't know you were here for dinner.
I hope you're not disappointed.
Quite the contrary.
As a matter of fact, I need your advice.
- How intriguing.
- We have a problem.
And I want to spare Aunt Agnes any concern.
[DRAMATIC MUSIC.]
Your coachman let me wait in here.
I said you were expecting me.
Is that so? I must teach him to be more circumspect in the future.
[KNOCKING.]
We're buying shares now.
All of us.
When will you announce the law? I'll send a message when I settle the date.
But there are no objections? No, not to the plan.
Only to me.
I'm afraid they're very snobbish, Mr.
Russell.
Are they? Well, maybe they're right to be.
Where would you like me to take you? Put me down here.
[KNOCKING.]
- Stop here, Johnson.
- Whoa! Good day to you, Mr.
Russell.
A good day for us all, I think.
[EXCITING MUSIC.]
You asked for my advice, but what you really want is my money.
Why can't Mama pay the debt? Because if she knew about it, she'd dismiss Mrs.
Bauer.
And we'd have to break in a new cook.
Ah.
I suspect you're softhearted.
I think you feel sorry for the woman and don't want her to lose her job.
No, I don't.
And would my $50 ever be repaid? It will.
It may take time, but I have an allowance.
Hmm.
I wonder if you'd do me a favor in return.
Of course, if I can.
Then give a luncheon party.
And invite Miss Gladys Russell.
Would she be allowed to come? She'd be allowed to lunch with you.
But don't you already know her? Mm, not well enough.
Let me sit next to her, and you can save Mrs.
Bauer.
That is my final offer.
What's all this? Never mind, Aunt Ada.
Cousin Marian and I are just seeing eye to eye.
I saw Charles Fane today.
He said the armory's fallen through.
It's so tiresome.
It turns out it was double-booked.
They're very sorry, but I'm afraid they won't budge.
And we can't change the date.
So what happens now? We'll go to the Fifth Avenue Hotel.
We'll have to pay, of course, so the profit will come down.
It's really too annoying to be borne.
You were offered Mrs.
Russell's ballroom - for nothing.
- I know, but But what? It's a lot more splendid than some down-at-heel hotel.
It wasn't my decision.
I had to defer to Aurora.
[SIGHS.]
She'd never have gone against you.
Why do you care? I don't want to annoy George Russell.
Not at the moment.
Well, I'm afraid you're too late.
We're going to the hotel.
It's all settled.
Pity.
[KNOCK AT DOOR.]
- May I have a word? - Of course.
The money you were going to borrow from Oscar How did you find out? I could see something was up when I came into the room, so I got it out of him after dinner.
Anyway, I told him I would prefer to pay Mrs.
Bauer's debt myself.
I'm relieved.
But can you manage it? I'm not quite penniless, thank you.
Whatever Agnes likes to imply.
But next time, please come to me first.
I will.
I would have felt very guilty selling Gladys Russell to him.
She deserves better than a fortune hunter.
Or shouldn't I say that? You can say it to me.
But what I don't understand is how Mrs.
Bauer fell into debt in the first place.
And will it happen again? I don't think so.
She's been foolish, by her own admission.
But she means to do better in the future.
Let us pray.
I'll make it up to you, I promise.
You make it up to me by being here.
Aunt Ada, can I ask you something? You told me Aunt Agnes hated my father because he sold our family house and abdicated his responsibility toward you.
I did.
Do you feel the same? About Daddy? [SIGHS.]
It's different for me.
Agnes has always carried the weight of the world on her shoulders.
I was the baby.
Henry used to tease me and make me laugh.
So no.
I don't feel the same way.
- Now I have a question.
- Hmm? Have you heard back from Mr.
Raikes? Not yet.
Please.
Be kind to your Aunt Agnes when you do.
Will she be kind to me? All we both want is your happiness.
You may disagree with us.
But that is all we want.
Please remember it.
Good night, my dear.
Good night.
And, Aunt Ada.
I love you.
I mean it.
You wouldn't say it if you did not.
[WARM MUSIC.]
[DRAMATIC MUSIC.]
[GRUNTS ANGRILY.]
[BRIGHT MUSIC.]
[INDISTINCT CHATTER.]
Well, it does feel much smaller than I hope it won't be too [GASPS.]
How beautiful.
It's so pretty.
- Look over here.
- Oh, beautiful.
Do show me how.
How lovely.
I think I'll just put a few out at a time.
Otherwise they look a bit ordinary.
I'll replace them as they sell.
- Are you quite ready? - Almost.
We're about to open the doors.
It's a shame about the armory.
I know.
We should have accepted Mrs.
Russell's offer, but Anne Morris wouldn't hear of it.
What offer? She said we could use her ballroom.
Wouldn't that have been better? Anne said we would have been indebted.
[GASPS.]
Oh, look, here's Mrs.
Astor.
Right on time.
Isn't she a marvel? A queen among her people.
You are so good and kind to come.
Nonsense.
It is what I do.
[BELL RINGING.]
Mrs.
Astor has agreed to open the bazaar.
What clearer sign can there be to show us the value of our endeavors? Mrs.
Astor? I have no speech beyond a simple desire that you should spend what you can to help these distressed mothers and their unhappy children.
So saying, I declare this bazaar well and truly open.
[APPLAUSE, BELL RINGING.]
[INDISTINCT CHATTER.]
[QUIRKY MUSIC.]
Good morning, Mrs.
Chamberlain.
You are both polite and brave, Miss Brook, since I'm quite sure Mrs.
Van Rhijn has warned you against me.
You're clever to know who I am.
I know a lot of what goes on in this city.
Your things are charming.
[CHUCKLES.]
Let me buy these.
Here.
It's five cents for each packet.
Keep it.
The cause is a good one.
You are very kind.
No, you are kind.
I wish you would come and call on me, but I suppose that is out of the question.
I must leave you, as I think you are about to pay for this exchange.
Why were you talking to that woman? I'm selling handkerchiefs for charity, - and she bought some.
- I see I must be blunt.
Mrs.
Chamberlain has things, terrible things, in her past which render her unsuitable as an acquaintance for any well-brought-up young lady.
- My father would be flattered.
- Marian, I'm serious.
Mrs.
Chamberlain's money is tainted.
If you were living in one room with neither heat nor water, I'm sure you would not find it so.
Oh, look.
Oh, first Mrs.
Chamberlain and now them.
Why don't we just go outside and roam in the gutter? It will save time.
Remember, Agnes, charity is the order of the day.
I do not know how much more I can take.
Try to remain calm.
- Marian.
- Oscar.
You should know, Aunt Ada is going to pay Mrs.
Bauer's debt.
Then I must use every opportunity.
Miss Russell.
How well you look.
Mother, may I present Mr.
Van Rhijn? How do you know my daughter, sir? Well, I don't.
Not really.
But, uh, I want to.
Very much.
We cannot always have what we want.
Oh, Mother, Mr.
Van Rhijn is teasing.
He's a friend of Larry's.
We met when he came by the other evening to take Larry for dinner.
You know Mr.
Van Rhijn is our neighbor.
Or at least, my mother is.
I was saying to Miss Russell, we should all see more of each other.
Maybe.
Dare I say we have outdone ourselves? Yes, I think so too.
Mrs.
Morris.
Good morning.
Is Mr.
Morris here? He's hoping to look in later.
Then he may miss it.
- I don't understand.
- You will.
And you must be Mrs.
Fane.
Yes, Mr.
Russell, I'm Aurora Fane.
So the pair of you decided my wife's ballroom was not good enough to raise money for your charity? Mr.
Russell, there's no need How much money do you hope to raise over the next three days? I suppose I'm hoping for $30 or even $40.
Here's $100, on one condition.
What? That everything on this stall is delivered to my house on Fifth Avenue within the hour.
This is my card.
- Can you do it? - Uh, yes, I suppose we can.
It is why we're here, isn't it? I mean, that is the point.
Of course! [CHUCKLES.]
- So you'll take it.
- Thank you.
Very generous.
You will also close and dismantle your stall.
[CROWD MURMURING.]
This is my address on Fifth Avenue.
- I see.
- $100.
I'm buying everything, but it must be delivered within the hour.
And the stall will be closed and taken down at once.
As you wish.
I will buy everything on your stall for $100.
Please wrap it up - [INDISTINCT CHATTER.]
- Thank you, sir.
- What have we here? - Gloves, sir.
I will take all of them.
Mrs.
Russell, can't you stop this? Why? The bazaar will be the most successful of the season.
All right.
- Madam, $100.
- It won't help you, you know.
This sort of stunt does not impress the people you want to win over.
Mrs.
Morris, this sort of stunt impresses everyone.
[BRIGHT MUSIC.]
I'm sure your father means well, but I'm afraid his generosity will close the bazaar before it's really begun.
I don't think he means well at all.
- No? - No.
And I don't blame him one little bit.
$100, Miss Brook? I feel I should say $500, and we could transform the whole endeavor.
But I'll take $100.
Well, I think that's everyone.
Can I help with packing it up? Oh, no, I'm enjoying myself.
It's not every day you watch Sherman march into the sea.
Your party's over, Mrs.
Morris.
You are to be congratulated.
It's been a great success.
And now it's time to go home.
Are you ready, my dear? - Larry? - You'd better go.
Sherman's leaving.
Miss Brook.
Goodbye, my dear.
You're not going.
There's nothing to stay for.
The lion has roared.
Seems to me the ship is sinking.
Let us follow the example of rats.
I don't know how nice that is, Agnes.
Oh, I'm so sorry, apologies.
[INDISTINCT CHATTER.]
[SIGHS.]
[DRAMATIC MUSIC.]
Mama, you're back very early.
I thought we were meeting at Mrs.
Morris's bazaar.
The bazaar is over, my dear.
Closed and finished.
What? I thought it was to last three days.
So it was.
But a man called George Russell decided otherwise.
I'd say they learned their lesson.
[CHUCKLES.]
I think neither Mrs.
Morris nor Mrs.
Fane will ever forget this one.
What was he like? Well, yesterday I would have said he was nobody.
But today? I'm obliged to concede that he is someone to be reckoned with.
And befriended? Oh, no.
Not yet, at any rate.
But we will hear of him again.
I rather enjoyed myself.
And now I'm going upstairs to take off my coat.
I have a free morning.
It is a treat to be savored.
[BRIGHT MUSIC.]
[BRIGHT TONE.]
[BRIGHT TONE.]
[SPIRITED ORCHESTRAL MUSIC.]
[INDISTINCT CHATTER.]
[DRAMATIC MUSIC.]
Did you think we'd forget about you? I can't give you what I haven't got.
- Find it! - [GASPS.]
But I can't.
Get the money.
I'll be back to collect it tomorrow.
[DOG BARKING.]
[BELL RINGS.]
At this rate, I shall have more clothes than the Princess of Wales.
But if Mrs.
Van Rhijn insists - Who am I to object? - [CHUCKLES.]
It's good of you to keep me company.
I don't mind.
At least, I think it's ridiculous that you're not allowed to walk out on your own.
But it gives me a chance to get some air.
Now for the sleeves.
By the way, someone from home is coming to the city.
- Oh? - I got a letter this morning.
- [BELL RINGS.]
- A friend from Pennsylvania? Not exactly.
The lawyer who managed my father's affairs when he died.
Is it about business? It may be.
He doesn't really say.
Will you let him visit 61st Street? Why? Would that be very shocking? It's not that, although Mrs.
Van Rhijn may think so.
But, uh, I might want to ask his advice.
Really? Any colored lawyer would find his way back to my father, and he can't know about it.
I'm not sure Mr.
Raikes would do it.
- But I can always ask.
- Excuse me And he studied law in Pennsylvania? I presume so.
Is this for your writing? No, it's a personal matter.
- Raise your arms, please.
- How is the writing going? Are you getting much done? I think so.
I sent out query letters.
To which publications? No, I'll tell you once I hear back from them.
I don't want to risk bad luck.
Well, I hope Mr.
Raikes can be of help.
I also hope he hasn't turned up a pile of Daddy's debts.
What can you mean? Of course I haven't called on Mrs.
Russell.
Marian, I hope you don't encourage her in this.
I don't.
What do you know about the Russells' daughter, Glenys? Is she out? Do people like that bring their daughters out? I thought they just sold them to the highest bidder.
She's called Gladys, not Glenys.
And I don't think she is out yet.
- But she's very nice.
- How do you know? I met her with Aurora Fane.
Aurora skates so close to the edge.
Do you know this Gladys well enough to ask her to luncheon? - Not really.
- I should think not.
Agnes, you can't have anything against an innocent young girl.
I am opposed to her tribe.
- Is this for sending up? - Right there.
[SOBBING.]
Are you quite well, Mrs.
Bauer? Why wouldn't I be? You seem upset.
Oh, I've been chopping onions.
Miss Scott, have you been working with Mrs.
Van Rhijn? Yes.
Suppose you think that makes you a sort of secretary.
She is a secretary and not a "sort of" anything, which puts her above you in the pecking order, Miss Armstrong.
Mr.
Oscar's good-looking, isn't he? I saw him when he left.
Mr.
Oscar's interested in one thing only, - and you haven't got it.
- What's that? - Money.
- Don't bash her down.
She only said he was good-looking, and so he is.
I wonder if they'll try to set him up with Miss Marian.
He wants an heiress, the richest he can find.
And Miss Marian hasn't a penny to her name.
If you've finished demolishing the characters of every member of this family, John and I will serve luncheon.
- Are you ready, Mrs.
Bauer? - I am.
[ELEGANT MUSIC.]
[SOBBING SOFTLY.]
Who is this Mr.
Raikes? The lawyer who settled Henry's estate.
- Do we have to receive him? - He waived his fee.
Oh, I see.
Well, let's make it tea and be quick about it.
Good.
Now we can get started.
Has Mr.
Raikes arrived in the city? He should be here by now.
Then ask him for tea tomorrow.
- You don't have to.
- Ada says he waived his fee.
- He did.
- Then you will give him tea.
You cannot be indebted to these people.
Very well, I'll ask him for half past 4:00.
Anne Morris wants me to call on her at 3:00.
She'd like me to take a stall in her bazaar.
What do you mean, take a stall? Run a stall and gather the things we'll sell.
It's for charity.
Well, I didn't think it was for profit.
They're joining the Dispensary for Poor Women and Children with the Infirmary for Indigent Women and Children and they'll move the whole thing to 7th Street.
That's sounds sensible, doesn't it? It sounds dull enough to be respectable, at any rate.
[QUIRKY MUSIC.]
There you are.
Do you still see Mrs.
Morris? I haven't quarreled with her, if that's what you mean.
But you don't see her? I gave her a check for her charity, which, as you so gallantly pointed out, was all they wanted from me, and I haven't heard from her since.
You know, she's married to Alderman Patrick Morris.
- So I believe.
- I'd like to meet him.
Then invite him to your office.
I want it to be informal.
- Ask him here for dinner.
- He wouldn't come.
Ask him anyway.
You're not suggesting we should go.
I'm curious as to why I'm included in her largesse.
I suspect her husband's had a hand in it.
Does that make a difference? George Russell is a force in this city, whatever you like to pretend.
But who else would be there? We could be dining with anyone.
Won't there just be the four of us? Can't you meet him at his office? It's not what he wants, is it? But how would I explain to people? Why not say you wanted to invite her onto the board of your bazaar? I don't think so.
Aurora Fane's the chairwoman again, and they had a falling-out last time.
You are joint chairwomen.
The choice is yours as much as hers.
I'm not sure its ever successful, trying to mix different types.
You won't say as much, I hope.
Of course not.
And I'll invite her to come and support us on the day.
She can't be offended at that.
Oh, can't she? [TENDER MUSIC.]
You won't accept if Mr.
Russell makes you an offer.
I shouldn't think so.
But I'd like to know what I'm turning down.
And when Mrs.
Astor hears we've gone to their house, what then? Mrs.
Astor knows how the world works.
[DRAMATIC MUSIC.]
Thank you, Bannister.
Please tell Mrs.
Bauer I've asked Mr.
Oscar to join us for tea.
He'll be company for Miss Marian's friend, - so we'll be five.
- Very good, ma'am.
- Can Oscar get away? - He says so.
He's got a luncheon at the Union with Ogden Goelet, and he'll come straight on.
He won't go back to the bank.
Could he introduce Marian to some of his friends? He must know any number of suitable young men.
Hmm, well, John Adams wasn't exactly a roaring success.
But I agree, he must know other candidates.
Or perhaps Oscar might take a shine to her himself.
Take a shine? - I only meant she's - They are first cousins.
And she hasn't a cent.
So I'd be grateful if you would keep your servants' hall slang to yourself.
Money isn't everything, Agnes.
Ha, you say that to me after the sacrifice I made to save your skin? To save both our skins, Agnes.
[TENSE MUSIC.]
You've heard we're to entertain Alderman Morris and his wife? And if I know Mrs.
Russell, she'll want quite a show.
I've made a list of what I'll need from the store cupboard and a few things that we'll have to order in.
I'll take care of it, thank you.
Mm.
Are you starting to feel at home? I think so.
But I'm open to advice if you have any.
Oh, you look as if you know the ropes pretty well, Mrs.
Bruce.
Have you always done this kind of work? More or less.
My mother answered an advertisement for a kitchen maid when I was 12, and that was it.
You worked your way up the ladder.
Were your parents in service? Oh, no.
[CHUCKLES.]
My beginnings were very humble.
My father was a farmworker, and my mother used to pick - fruit in the fall.
- Pfft.
I never knew a world like this existed.
Well, I envy you.
- Really? - Mm-hmm.
If you offered most people the choice between a top chef and a spinster housekeeper, I know which they'd take.
It doesn't mean they'd be right.
So it will be at the Veterans' Room at the new Seventh Regiment Armory.
You're sure they'll agree? Mrs.
Druett says they'll be keen to help.
I'll call him there this week.
And we have enough stall holders? - ALL: Mm-hmm.
- I think so.
We don't want a crush.
- Have you asked Mrs.
Russell? - Hmm? We won't go down that route again.
- Precisely.
- Good.
I don't see why not.
I like her.
Careful, my dear.
Or I'll report you to Aunt Agnes.
But why keep her out? She can give more to the cause than the rest of us put together.
She's welcome to make a donation.
We're dining with her soon, and I'll try to inspire her with our work.
You're having dinner with Mrs.
Russell? At her house? Her husband has something he wants to talk about with Mr.
Morris.
Do I hear my name taken in vain? You're not to disturb our meeting.
I wonder, will you include Mrs.
Russell - among your stall holders? - Apparently not.
We still want her check, though.
We just mean to insult her first.
Her husband won't take kindly to the snub.
This bazaar is in aid of children.
We need everything to be as pure as the driven snow.
And so you mean to tangle with the men who own most of the railroads in this country? Money isn't everything.
It is when you haven't got it.
[QUIRKY MUSIC.]
[DRAMATIC MUSIC.]
Here, this is all I have.
Here, take it.
Take it, please.
Ah! I don't want your junk.
- I want the money.
- Mrs.
Bauer? - What's happening? - Huh? I'll be back to get my money.
Who was that man? Tell them to go.
Make them go.
[INDISTINCT CHATTER.]
Where did these come from? Now you know what I am.
I know you were badly frightened.
Oh, no.
I'm a thief.
A common thief.
Oh.
I was looking for Mrs.
Russell.
She's gone with Mr.
White, sir.
He's taken her to see some pictures.
I don't like the sound of that.
[CHUCKLES.]
I'm afraid women are an expensive hobby, sir.
Especially pretty ones.
I'm afraid they are.
If you could ask her to come and find me when she gets back.
Of course, sir.
You mean to settle in New York? I applied for a position.
It's a bit early to assume I'll get it.
So you might come here to live? Doubt I could manage the work from Doylestown.
But why? Aren't you happy there? Not as happy as I could be.
Good evening, Mr.
Oscar.
I like to think you'd be pleased.
Right this way.
Mr.
Van Rhijn and Mr.
Russell.
Oscar? May I present Mr.
Russell, Mama? We were at the luncheon together, and he's anxious to know you.
I'm afraid I've rather pushed into your tea party, Mrs.
Van Rhijn.
Don't worry.
We have so much cake.
Are you anything to do with the Russells who live across the road? - I'm one of them.
- Oh.
This is my sister, Miss Brook, and my niece, Miss Marian Brook.
Hello.
And Mr.
Raikes is visiting from Pennsylvania.
But now I suppose you'd better have some tea.
- How do you do? - How do you do? Pleasure to meet you, Mrs.
Van Rhijn.
How do you know my cousin? We met in Newport with Mrs.
Fish.
And then we were both at a luncheon at the Union Club today.
I didn't tell him you and I had already met.
I'm glad to see you here.
Judging by your aunt's face, it'll be a while before you see me here again.
[QUIRKY MUSIC.]
It is a small town.
And, of course, nothing like You just have to get them back into the silver cupboard.
But how will I manage it? How will you manage what? Tell me.
You don't want to be involved.
You don't know what I want.
[SIGHS.]
Tell her.
I couldn't be more ashamed than I am already.
[SOLEMN MUSIC.]
Wish I understood what brings you to New York.
Simple.
I want to be here.
And that's enough of a reason? Course it is.
It's always a reason when you want something enough.
When I see what I really want, I take it if I can.
I suspect that's something you should try to control if you don't intend to spend time in a police cell.
[CHUCKLES.]
So when did you decide to come to New York? It's always been a dream of mine.
It's become real comparatively recently.
I see.
I wish I could convince you that I mean to be your friend.
Oddly enough, there is something you can do for me.
There's a woman who works here who did me a very good turn, and it seems she wants your advice.
- Do you know what it's about? - No.
But she'll have a solid reason.
I should tell you, she's colored.
I see.
She's keen to see a lawyer who's familiar with the laws of Pennsylvania.
I don't know why.
"Curiouser and curiouser", said Alice.
If you don't like the sound of it, could you suggest someone who might handle cases like hers? But if even that's a nuisance, I'll understand.
I've told her it's a lot to ask.
Nothing is a nuisance if it gives me the chance to see you again.
Bring her to the Bethesda Fountain in Central Park tomorrow afternoon at 3:00.
I'll wait for you.
You're clever to know it.
I don't.
You do now.
I'll see you there.
Bye, Mr.
Raikes.
[CHEERFUL MUSIC.]
What can have possessed you? He's a very handsome young man.
You know we met in Newport.
So when I saw him at Ogden's luncheon, it seemed the obvious thing to do.
And I think we should know the Russell family.
I would go further and say I think it is mad that we don't.
You mean you want to know their daughter.
When I saw Larry again today, I asked him here for tea.
Et voilà .
While I am struggling, trying to hold back the tide of vulgarians that threatens to engulf us.
I feel like King Canute.
Your policies make as much sense as his did.
Now the mother will try to use it to push in here, you'll see.
- Has the lawyer gone? - He has.
I thought he was very nice.
I hope I'm not going to have to speak to you again, Ada.
No, Agnes.
He may be moving to New York.
He will not trouble you if he does.
What do you mean? New York is a collection of villages, my dear.
We know the people who live in our own village.
But not the ones who don't.
The Russells live in your village, Mama.
I could throw a stone from here and break their windows.
- Don't tease me.
- I'm not.
I'm stating facts.
I'm not concerned with facts.
Not if they interfere with my beliefs.
I give you prejudice in a nut shell.
Oh, stop talking to yourself and ring the bell.
- I'm going up to change.
- I doubt it, Mama.
I'd say you'll come down again without having changed at all.
[CHUCKLES.]
[QUIRKY MUSIC.]
[DRAMATIC MUSIC.]
So this is what Dido felt when she was about to throw herself - onto the flaming pyre.
- Chin up.
It'll be so awkward.
If it is, it won't be the first awkward dinner we've sat through.
Think of your Aunt Susan.
[CHUCKLES.]
Oh, you love to tease.
Mr.
and Mrs.
Morris, welcome.
[ELEGANT MUSIC.]
Do you think we should kneel? What's that? Mrs.
Morris was admiring your house.
Oh, we're still trying to get organized.
Please, come into the drawing room.
Ah, here's Mr.
Russell.
- Mr.
Morris.
- Mr.
Russell.
Where is the bazaar to be held? In the new armory on Park Avenue.
How interesting.
Mr.
White worked on that, the man who built this house.
Why didn't you choose Richard Morris Hunt? People expected us to, but I like Mr.
White.
He seems very unafraid.
He is unafraid of decoration, certainly.
[CHUCKLES.]
Did Morris Hunt build your house? He did, but for the Henry Lowells, so we avoided the pangs of childbirth.
Still, it's harder to make it one's own, isn't it, when it wasn't built for you? - Is Morris Hunt a relation? - No.
Oh, I suppose Morris is quite a common name.
This is really delicious.
I can't remember when I've eaten better.
Thank you.
I'll tell Baudin.
He'll be delighted.
Your chef is French? Isn't everyone's these days? It seems quite a luxury to me.
We feel it's worth it.
Well, don't let's overlook the cost.
Well, it's excellent, which is all that matters.
Is the armory settled now? Mrs.
Druett is sure it will be, and her husband is on the board.
If anything goes wrong, you can use the ballroom here.
We'll show you after dinner.
- You plan entertain, then? - When the time is right.
I'm afraid New York can be quite challenging at first.
Can it? We haven't found it so.
Have we, George? There is no challenge you are not equal to, my dear.
Mm.
[EXCITING MUSIC.]
- When will you christen it? - We haven't decided.
I expect you're rather sorry you settled on the armory.
There's something I'd like to talk to you about if I could detach you from the ladies for a moment.
Of course.
- Please excuse us.
- This way.
I hope you'll come to the bazaar.
I'm rather sorry I couldn't be part of it.
It seems a sensible cause for once.
I think so.
It seems the two charities were covering exactly the same ground.
Well, the offer stands.
If the armory falls through, you can always come here.
That is very generous, Mrs.
Russell.
I almost wish we would.
- Gambling? - It's mainly cards.
Street games where anyone can play if they only have a few nickels.
Why do the police allow it? I'd say they do more than allow it.
How much did she lose? Every time she tried to say the sum, the tears came.
Bridget found some brandy in the store cupboard.
Did she tell you in the end? About $50.
- That's why she was crying.
- $50? The men she owes will not be kind.
No.
I've seen that for myself.
Can't we help her? They like her so much downstairs, and I'd hate to see her sacked.
Let me think.
And don't forget our appointment tomorrow.
[SIGHS.]
What will you tell your aunts? I'll say I'm going for a walk and that I've asked you to accompany me.
And you don't mind lying to them? Don't put it like that.
I'm just trying to live my life.
[FOOTSTEPS TAPPING.]
Miss Scott, you shouldn't be doing that now.
It's far too late.
And don't let Miss Marian distract you.
I've finished for the night.
Tomorrow I want you to go through these.
Letters from assorted presidents, secretaries of state, artists in need of a patron, that sort of thing.
- How interesting.
- Hmm.
If only Mr.
Oscar agreed with you.
I do know you've taken a chance on me, Mrs.
Van Rhijn.
And I appreciate it.
Life has taught me one thing, Miss Scott.
If you don't want to be disappointed, only help those who help themselves.
And now I'm going to bed.
So there'll be another line direct from New York to Chicago.
That's it.
Through Pennsylvania.
Along the south shore of Lake Erie.
Across northing Ohio and Indiana and on to Chicago and St.
Louis.
What about the railroads that already cover the area? We can manage those.
And you want to build a new station in the city? Which is where you come in.
Even if I were able to persuade my fellow aldermen to pass the law, I don't quite see well, not to put too fine a point on it.
You mean what's in it for them? Mm.
Any shares you buy in the company now should go sky-high when the bill is passed.
But suppose it would be hard for some of us to raise the money.
I imagine you have a margin account.
Surely most of them do.
You mean we should buy shares now on margin and then pass the law? I'm not telling you to do anything.
And when it comes into law, the shares will go through the ceiling.
So there's no risk in my buying on margin, as I'll never have to raise the money to cover it.
That's what you're saying.
I repeat.
I am not giving you any kind of instruction.
This is why we're not meeting in your office.
[FOOTSTEPS TAPPING.]
You look very serious.
Not serious, thoughtful.
Well, I'm afraid you're going to have to take your thoughts home, Mr.
Morris.
Mrs.
Morris is tired.
I'm to tell you she wants to leave.
Well, I hope she's thanked you for our wonderful evening.
You'll let me know? Yes.
I'll let you know.
Congratulations, my dear.
An excellent dinner, brilliantly orchestrated.
Hmm.
I think you've caught me the fish I was after.
I'm glad.
[INTRIGUING MUSIC.]
Well, they've gone.
The master and mistress are having a drink in the library to recover, but well done, monsieur, a triumphant evening.
You hear that, Monsieur Baudin? What a comfort it is to know that all the hard work has been worthwhile.
Has it? Marian said you wanted to see me? Shut the door.
Now, I need to make one thing clear.
You are not to encourage Marian over that tiresome young man.
- Oh, but I didn't.
- Yes, you did.
"How nice he is.
What fun it will be for her to have a friend in the city".
- But it will be.
- Ada she hasn't a penny.
And I can't leave her any of the Van Rhijn money, which should and will go to Oscar.
- What will happen to me? - Oh.
Don't worry about that.
I will outlive you.
Now, as I was saying.
Marian has no income, and her birth thanks to her mother is not impeccable.
In short, without a decent marriage, she will be lost.
But he's a lawyer.
Oh, if you ask me, he's a shyster with neither background nor fortune.
It's obvious.
He sees her as a ticket out of Doylestown.
But if they like each other Marrying for money is not always a guarantee of happiness, Agnes.
I don't wish her to marry for money.
Only to marry for security, support, and, God willing, affection.
Would you deny her that? Of course not.
Then good night.
[GENTLE MUSIC.]
[CHEERFUL MUSIC.]
I'm afraid we're a little late.
I'm sure he'll wait.
How is Mrs.
Bauer today? I believe she put the silver back, but in despair about everything else.
I can find the money.
I just have to figure out how to get it without telling anyone why I need it.
- I don't believe in secrets.
- Really? I don't believe in them because they never work.
Everything always comes out in the end.
You should know.
You keep secrets better than most.
Ha! It's wonderful.
When was it built? It was finished almost ten years ago.
And the statue at the top was made by a woman.
You'll like that.
I do like it.
Who was she? Emma Stebbins, the first woman to receive a sculptural commission in New York City.
I hope you just read that in the guidebook.
- I did.
- [BOTH CHUCKLE.]
What a relief.
You scared me for a moment.
This is Miss Scott.
Good day, Miss Scott.
I gather that you wish to ask for my help.
If you don't see it as impertinent, sir.
As a matter of fact, I'm curious.
- Thank you.
- Then I'll leave you to it.
Hello, Miss Brook.
Miss Russell.
This is my mother's maid, Turner.
She's been kind enough to take me to a fitting.
Give us a moment, will you? She was really spying on me for my mother to make sure I didn't change the design.
I saw your brother yesterday.
He said.
Although he doesn't expect to be asked back anytime soon.
He had dinner with your cousin last night at the Knickerbocker.
Mr.
Van Rhijn came across the street - and they went together.
- Hmm.
He did make me laugh.
Yes, Oscar can be quite witty.
I thought he was charming.
He wanted me to join them for dinner, but, of course, it was out of the question.
How strange these rules are.
Why shouldn't you go out to dinner with your brother and a friend? What could be more normal? Not to my mother.
Look.
Is that man trying to catch your attention? I think he is.
Good day, Miss Russell.
I suspect you ought to keep an eye on her.
I will.
Is everything settled? Miss Scott is going to write to me.
You must promise to send a bill.
Don't worry about that.
And now this really is goodbye.
Had my final interview this morning and I leave for home tomorrow.
I hope you have plans for tonight.
How could I? I don't know anyone in New York except you.
[CHUCKLES.]
Well, that'll soon change if you come here to live.
New York has plenty to offer the new arrival.
But what would I have to offer New York? You'll let us know how it turns out? - Promise? - Promise.
You'll be the first person I tell.
[TENDER MUSIC.]
- Miss Scott.
- Jack.
You were in a hurry when you left this afternoon.
We were late for Mr.
Raikes and Mr.
Raikes? Miss Marian's lawyer? He returns to Pennsylvania in the morning.
She wanted to say goodbye.
I bet she did.
She took her time saying goodbye to him when he was here yesterday.
I had to leave them to it in the hall.
And where did she meet him today? The Bethesda Fountain in Central Park.
Why did you say "we" were late for Mr.
Raikes? Did I? I meant she was late.
But then why say "we"? Oh, for heaven's sake.
She kept Miss Marian company so she could say goodbye to an old friend.
You know Mrs.
Van Rhijn doesn't like her - to go out alone.
- I was just asking.
Well, don't.
Cousin Oscar, I didn't know you were here for dinner.
I hope you're not disappointed.
Quite the contrary.
As a matter of fact, I need your advice.
- How intriguing.
- We have a problem.
And I want to spare Aunt Agnes any concern.
[DRAMATIC MUSIC.]
Your coachman let me wait in here.
I said you were expecting me.
Is that so? I must teach him to be more circumspect in the future.
[KNOCKING.]
We're buying shares now.
All of us.
When will you announce the law? I'll send a message when I settle the date.
But there are no objections? No, not to the plan.
Only to me.
I'm afraid they're very snobbish, Mr.
Russell.
Are they? Well, maybe they're right to be.
Where would you like me to take you? Put me down here.
[KNOCKING.]
- Stop here, Johnson.
- Whoa! Good day to you, Mr.
Russell.
A good day for us all, I think.
[EXCITING MUSIC.]
You asked for my advice, but what you really want is my money.
Why can't Mama pay the debt? Because if she knew about it, she'd dismiss Mrs.
Bauer.
And we'd have to break in a new cook.
Ah.
I suspect you're softhearted.
I think you feel sorry for the woman and don't want her to lose her job.
No, I don't.
And would my $50 ever be repaid? It will.
It may take time, but I have an allowance.
Hmm.
I wonder if you'd do me a favor in return.
Of course, if I can.
Then give a luncheon party.
And invite Miss Gladys Russell.
Would she be allowed to come? She'd be allowed to lunch with you.
But don't you already know her? Mm, not well enough.
Let me sit next to her, and you can save Mrs.
Bauer.
That is my final offer.
What's all this? Never mind, Aunt Ada.
Cousin Marian and I are just seeing eye to eye.
I saw Charles Fane today.
He said the armory's fallen through.
It's so tiresome.
It turns out it was double-booked.
They're very sorry, but I'm afraid they won't budge.
And we can't change the date.
So what happens now? We'll go to the Fifth Avenue Hotel.
We'll have to pay, of course, so the profit will come down.
It's really too annoying to be borne.
You were offered Mrs.
Russell's ballroom - for nothing.
- I know, but But what? It's a lot more splendid than some down-at-heel hotel.
It wasn't my decision.
I had to defer to Aurora.
[SIGHS.]
She'd never have gone against you.
Why do you care? I don't want to annoy George Russell.
Not at the moment.
Well, I'm afraid you're too late.
We're going to the hotel.
It's all settled.
Pity.
[KNOCK AT DOOR.]
- May I have a word? - Of course.
The money you were going to borrow from Oscar How did you find out? I could see something was up when I came into the room, so I got it out of him after dinner.
Anyway, I told him I would prefer to pay Mrs.
Bauer's debt myself.
I'm relieved.
But can you manage it? I'm not quite penniless, thank you.
Whatever Agnes likes to imply.
But next time, please come to me first.
I will.
I would have felt very guilty selling Gladys Russell to him.
She deserves better than a fortune hunter.
Or shouldn't I say that? You can say it to me.
But what I don't understand is how Mrs.
Bauer fell into debt in the first place.
And will it happen again? I don't think so.
She's been foolish, by her own admission.
But she means to do better in the future.
Let us pray.
I'll make it up to you, I promise.
You make it up to me by being here.
Aunt Ada, can I ask you something? You told me Aunt Agnes hated my father because he sold our family house and abdicated his responsibility toward you.
I did.
Do you feel the same? About Daddy? [SIGHS.]
It's different for me.
Agnes has always carried the weight of the world on her shoulders.
I was the baby.
Henry used to tease me and make me laugh.
So no.
I don't feel the same way.
- Now I have a question.
- Hmm? Have you heard back from Mr.
Raikes? Not yet.
Please.
Be kind to your Aunt Agnes when you do.
Will she be kind to me? All we both want is your happiness.
You may disagree with us.
But that is all we want.
Please remember it.
Good night, my dear.
Good night.
And, Aunt Ada.
I love you.
I mean it.
You wouldn't say it if you did not.
[WARM MUSIC.]
[DRAMATIC MUSIC.]
[GRUNTS ANGRILY.]
[BRIGHT MUSIC.]
[INDISTINCT CHATTER.]
Well, it does feel much smaller than I hope it won't be too [GASPS.]
How beautiful.
It's so pretty.
- Look over here.
- Oh, beautiful.
Do show me how.
How lovely.
I think I'll just put a few out at a time.
Otherwise they look a bit ordinary.
I'll replace them as they sell.
- Are you quite ready? - Almost.
We're about to open the doors.
It's a shame about the armory.
I know.
We should have accepted Mrs.
Russell's offer, but Anne Morris wouldn't hear of it.
What offer? She said we could use her ballroom.
Wouldn't that have been better? Anne said we would have been indebted.
[GASPS.]
Oh, look, here's Mrs.
Astor.
Right on time.
Isn't she a marvel? A queen among her people.
You are so good and kind to come.
Nonsense.
It is what I do.
[BELL RINGING.]
Mrs.
Astor has agreed to open the bazaar.
What clearer sign can there be to show us the value of our endeavors? Mrs.
Astor? I have no speech beyond a simple desire that you should spend what you can to help these distressed mothers and their unhappy children.
So saying, I declare this bazaar well and truly open.
[APPLAUSE, BELL RINGING.]
[INDISTINCT CHATTER.]
[QUIRKY MUSIC.]
Good morning, Mrs.
Chamberlain.
You are both polite and brave, Miss Brook, since I'm quite sure Mrs.
Van Rhijn has warned you against me.
You're clever to know who I am.
I know a lot of what goes on in this city.
Your things are charming.
[CHUCKLES.]
Let me buy these.
Here.
It's five cents for each packet.
Keep it.
The cause is a good one.
You are very kind.
No, you are kind.
I wish you would come and call on me, but I suppose that is out of the question.
I must leave you, as I think you are about to pay for this exchange.
Why were you talking to that woman? I'm selling handkerchiefs for charity, - and she bought some.
- I see I must be blunt.
Mrs.
Chamberlain has things, terrible things, in her past which render her unsuitable as an acquaintance for any well-brought-up young lady.
- My father would be flattered.
- Marian, I'm serious.
Mrs.
Chamberlain's money is tainted.
If you were living in one room with neither heat nor water, I'm sure you would not find it so.
Oh, look.
Oh, first Mrs.
Chamberlain and now them.
Why don't we just go outside and roam in the gutter? It will save time.
Remember, Agnes, charity is the order of the day.
I do not know how much more I can take.
Try to remain calm.
- Marian.
- Oscar.
You should know, Aunt Ada is going to pay Mrs.
Bauer's debt.
Then I must use every opportunity.
Miss Russell.
How well you look.
Mother, may I present Mr.
Van Rhijn? How do you know my daughter, sir? Well, I don't.
Not really.
But, uh, I want to.
Very much.
We cannot always have what we want.
Oh, Mother, Mr.
Van Rhijn is teasing.
He's a friend of Larry's.
We met when he came by the other evening to take Larry for dinner.
You know Mr.
Van Rhijn is our neighbor.
Or at least, my mother is.
I was saying to Miss Russell, we should all see more of each other.
Maybe.
Dare I say we have outdone ourselves? Yes, I think so too.
Mrs.
Morris.
Good morning.
Is Mr.
Morris here? He's hoping to look in later.
Then he may miss it.
- I don't understand.
- You will.
And you must be Mrs.
Fane.
Yes, Mr.
Russell, I'm Aurora Fane.
So the pair of you decided my wife's ballroom was not good enough to raise money for your charity? Mr.
Russell, there's no need How much money do you hope to raise over the next three days? I suppose I'm hoping for $30 or even $40.
Here's $100, on one condition.
What? That everything on this stall is delivered to my house on Fifth Avenue within the hour.
This is my card.
- Can you do it? - Uh, yes, I suppose we can.
It is why we're here, isn't it? I mean, that is the point.
Of course! [CHUCKLES.]
- So you'll take it.
- Thank you.
Very generous.
You will also close and dismantle your stall.
[CROWD MURMURING.]
This is my address on Fifth Avenue.
- I see.
- $100.
I'm buying everything, but it must be delivered within the hour.
And the stall will be closed and taken down at once.
As you wish.
I will buy everything on your stall for $100.
Please wrap it up - [INDISTINCT CHATTER.]
- Thank you, sir.
- What have we here? - Gloves, sir.
I will take all of them.
Mrs.
Russell, can't you stop this? Why? The bazaar will be the most successful of the season.
All right.
- Madam, $100.
- It won't help you, you know.
This sort of stunt does not impress the people you want to win over.
Mrs.
Morris, this sort of stunt impresses everyone.
[BRIGHT MUSIC.]
I'm sure your father means well, but I'm afraid his generosity will close the bazaar before it's really begun.
I don't think he means well at all.
- No? - No.
And I don't blame him one little bit.
$100, Miss Brook? I feel I should say $500, and we could transform the whole endeavor.
But I'll take $100.
Well, I think that's everyone.
Can I help with packing it up? Oh, no, I'm enjoying myself.
It's not every day you watch Sherman march into the sea.
Your party's over, Mrs.
Morris.
You are to be congratulated.
It's been a great success.
And now it's time to go home.
Are you ready, my dear? - Larry? - You'd better go.
Sherman's leaving.
Miss Brook.
Goodbye, my dear.
You're not going.
There's nothing to stay for.
The lion has roared.
Seems to me the ship is sinking.
Let us follow the example of rats.
I don't know how nice that is, Agnes.
Oh, I'm so sorry, apologies.
[INDISTINCT CHATTER.]
[SIGHS.]
[DRAMATIC MUSIC.]
Mama, you're back very early.
I thought we were meeting at Mrs.
Morris's bazaar.
The bazaar is over, my dear.
Closed and finished.
What? I thought it was to last three days.
So it was.
But a man called George Russell decided otherwise.
I'd say they learned their lesson.
[CHUCKLES.]
I think neither Mrs.
Morris nor Mrs.
Fane will ever forget this one.
What was he like? Well, yesterday I would have said he was nobody.
But today? I'm obliged to concede that he is someone to be reckoned with.
And befriended? Oh, no.
Not yet, at any rate.
But we will hear of him again.
I rather enjoyed myself.
And now I'm going upstairs to take off my coat.
I have a free morning.
It is a treat to be savored.
[BRIGHT MUSIC.]
[BRIGHT TONE.]