The Gilded Age (2022) s02e04 Episode Script
His Grace the Duke
1
[TV STATIC DRONES]
[BRIGHT TONE]
[SPIRITED ORCHESTRAL MUSIC]
♪
As you can see, we are
entering into the final phase
of our grand enterprise.
And we're eager that all of you,
our principal patrons and sponsors,
should be the first to witness
what the new
Metropolitan Opera will bring
to the great city of New York.
And now, I shall hand you
over to Mr. Gilbert
so he can answer any questions
you may have.
Ladies and gentlemen,
if you'd like to follow me
into the auditorium.
[LIGHT MUSIC]
♪
This way.
The work may not be done,
but it is nearly done.
And the first tier where
most of you have taken boxes
- needs only its finishing touches.
- [INDISTINCT WHISPERING]
And now, I give you
the grandest opera house
in the world, the new Metropolitan!
[EXCITED CHATTER]
- My heavens.
- [INDISTINCT CHATTER]
As you can see,
the theater is monumental.
Mrs. Winterton, you came.
Your letter made me curious.
And you're right. It's very splendid.
Are you thinking
of crossing over to our side?
No, I'm afraid not.
Mr. Winterton values his box
at the Academy so highly,
as you'll understand better than most.
Mrs. Russell, Mrs. Winterton,
would you mind
holding that pose for just a second
while our artist makes a sketch
for "The Daily Graphic"?
Not me. I support the Academy.
- Just you then, Mrs. Russell.
- Of course.
Which box is yours?
Oh, nothing is final yet.
And I'm to believe that?
You're kind to let me come today
when you know I'll fail you.
That won't stop me
placing temptation in your way.
Is it all progressing smoothly?
I don't see any workmen.
Oh, they must have cleared them
- for the patrons' visit.
- Ah.
Mrs. Russell, did you see the item
in a Newport paper recently?
There were no names, but people say
it was about your son and a Mrs. Blane.
He seems to be very fond of her.
We're all fond of Mrs. Blane.
He's starting out as an architect,
and she has commissioned him
to renovate her house there.
So I suppose they've come
to know each other pretty well.
Yes, we all know and like Mrs. Blane.
- And now I must go.
- Oh.
What cheek these people have.
I don't know
where they get their nonsense.
- I'm sure there's nothing to it, but
- But what?
Nothing, really.
I wasn't going to tell you.
It was just that
Maud Beaton made a comment
when we all went to see that play.
She seemed to think something
was going on between them,
but it was a joke.
Of course it was.
- If I could have a word, Mrs. Russell?
- [INDISTINCT CHATTER]
- I'm afraid I have bad news.
- Does it have anything to do
- with the absence of any workers?
- Precisely.
The money's run out.
We are badly behind in our schedule
for selling leases on the boxes.
I'll help with that.
If you can help,
Mrs. Russell, please do,
and don't waste any time.
♪
I hope Miss Ada realizes
that entertaining means a lot of work.
It's for a good cause.
I think she likes the rector.
Oh, she likes him very much.
And she's earned a bit of happiness.
How's the clock coming on?
Good, I think.
I'm going to start testing it this week.
Should we all wear helmets?
- Oh.
- Bishop Riley has been a missionary
in Mexico City for years,
saving lives and sharing the gospel.
So I hope I've convinced you to join me
- in supporting his noble cause.
- [APPLAUSE]
Calm down. It wasn't
the Gettysburg Address.
What he said was so moving.
The pamphlets on how
you may help the mission
are on the table as you pass
through to the dining room
where we invite you
to join us now for some tea.
- Thank you.
- [LIGHT CHATTER]
I shouldn't have thought
that this would be
of much interest to you.
I came to support Aunt Ada.
Besides, Miss Beaton is keen
to help spread the Christian word.
And how does that sit with you?
I gladly support good causes
from the comfort of Fifth Avenue.
That bishop sounds so courageous.
I just wish I were brave enough
to do something practical to help.
Why don't I make a donation
in your name?
Really?
You continue to surprise me,
Mr. Van Rhijn.
And you continue
to inspire me, Miss Beaton.
I wish I knew
what to make of your cousin.
Well, I've never seen him
like this with anyone.
You bring out the best in him.
- And I'm glad.
- We should go.
Are you leaving so soon?
I'm afraid Miss Brook is expected
- at my daughter's school tea.
- Oh.
Tell Oscar goodbye for me.
Of course.
- Shall we?
Well, there's no need
for you to escort me.
I know my way to the school.
It's the least I can do.
Oh, Greece was my favorite
of all the mission trips.
- But that was so long ago.
- Mm.
Why did you stop?
When my father died,
my mother was alone.
I looked after her until the end.
Still, you must miss
your missionary work.
If I were counting my regrets,
I would put lack of travel
as number one.
- It's not too late for you to travel.
- [LAUGHS]
I shan't argue, since I hope it's true.
Miss Brook, there's so much
that you can still do.
[GENTLE MUSIC]
♪
Oh, there you are.
I want to thank both of you
for holding this gathering for me.
- We were glad to do it.
- Well, you know Ada.
Never happier than when
she's doing good works.
Sure you don't want
anything else to eat?
What about some more tea?
All right, I'll have another cup of tea.
I see Mrs. Montgomery. Excuse me.
- Thank you.
- Of course.
Your daughter is charming,
and so old for her age.
- She isn't
- And she's just like her father.
I've watched him
when he comes to collect her.
I must say, you have him
wonderfully trained.
She is like her father, yes.
I don't think we've met,
Mrs. Montgomery.
- I'm Mrs. Glennie.
- I'm not Mrs. Montgomery.
I'm Miss Brook,
and I'm Frances's cousin.
- I teach here.
- I see.
I do apologize.
Oh, you'll know my daughter,
Sarah Glennie.
Of course.
- She's a credit to you.
- Yes.
Well good.
I'd better see that she's all right.
- There she is.
- What were you saying to Mrs. Glennie?
Nothing much.
Miss Brook, we're so happy to see you.
- Ah.
- You're our favorite teacher.
Thank you, but let's
keep that to ourselves.
- [LAUGHTER]
- Ah, here's your father.
Am I too early?
No, I think it's just breaking up now.
You're very kind to have
given Frances your afternoon.
Oh, I've enjoyed it.
It's nice to see all the girls
and their families.
And now, here we are, the three of us.
Because we make a rather neat
little family too now,
don't we?
- Oh.
- [LAUGHS]
You mustn't frighten Miss Brook.
- You're not frightened, are you?
- I'm coming!
Of course not.
I've had a lovely time,
but now I should get back.
- The carriage is outside.
- No, I'll walk.
- I usually do.
- Nonsense.
No one in our little family walks,
not when there's a perfectly
good carriage waiting.
She's very grateful, and so am I.
[GIRLS CHATTERING]
You're not still worried
about that stupid article.
Stupid or not, we have to be careful.
It was just fizz for a gossip column.
What does it matter? Ignore it.
You are a bachelor
sowing your wild oats.
You have nothing to lose.
You worry too much.
- No one cares.
- People care.
- What is it?
- Your mother has written to me.
She's asked me to call on her
the next time I'm in New York.
And does she say why?
Well, it seems to be
about getting me to take
- a box at the Metropolitan.
- Oh, I see.
Yes, it would be.
But why couldn't it wait
until she was back in Newport?
She wouldn't want to wait.
She thinks of nothing else
at the moment.
Will you see her while you're there?
What reason could I
possibly have for refusing?
Just don't let her worry you.
When will you get back to Newport?
Thursday, in time
for Mrs. Fish's dinner.
I'll pick you up at 8:00.
Should we arrive together?
I'll drop you at the door,
drive around the block,
and come in later.
And for what it's worth,
I'm not sowing any wild oats
Because I love you.
And I'm very much afraid
that I love you, Mr. Russell.
Which was not part of the original plan.
[SOFT, TENSE MUSIC]
♪
Are we dining together this evening?
I don't think so.
That's a pity, because I have good news.
It's about the Duke of Buckingham.
I wrote to John Burns,
the English chairman of Cunard.
It seems he knows the Duke well.
We were invited to a reception.
With the Duke?
Of course, with the Duke.
I said you could fix things
if you put your mind to it.
How was your patrons' tour
of the opera house?
- Did it go well?
- Not entirely.
We have a problem. The work stopped.
- Won't they sort it out?
- Maybe.
But the opening could be delayed
when it's all arranged.
We could even lose our singers.
Do you want me to look into it?
I'd be grateful if you would.
Apart from that,
did you feel it went well?
I think so,
although Mrs. Winterton took
the chance to rub my face
in her membership in the Academy.
And a journalist asked me
about some gossip
in a Newport paper,
which some people seem to think
is about Larry and Mrs. Blane.
- What did you say?
- What could I say?
That he's working for her
as her architect?
- Well, that's true.
- It's spreading, George.
It'll be all over New York
before too long.
- You'll control it.
- Is that all I'm good for?
Running around with a blanket
to put out the fires?
Trying to make sure
Larry stays out of trouble,
making sure
Gladys meets the right people.
I cover all your backs,
but who's covering mine?
I hope I am.
- That's what I mean to do.
- [SIGHS]
For me, no one living is
more important than you.
I know.
What do you propose to do about Larry?
I'm going to talk to Mrs. Blane.
- And what will you say?
- Only the truth.
It's usually for the best.
Have you answered
Mr. McNeil's letter yet?
No and before you ask,
it's because I don't quite know
what that answer should be.
It must be very difficult for you.
Because I need to be sure
that it's right for her.
Do you think he'll renege on the terms?
No, he says
that he'll make me comfortable.
I'm sure that he will.
But I need to know
that it's what she wants.
Then tell him.
Write to him and explain
that you need to hear it from her.
You're right. I'll do it.
- [BRIGHT MUSIC]
- [TRAIN WHISTLE BLOWS]
It's an honor to meet you,
Mr. Washington.
My pleasure. It's quite the journey
from New York.
An important journey.
My wife will be delighted to have
another lady in the house.
I look forward to meeting her.
And I can't wait to see
the campus of the dormitory.
- Yes.
- Well, I appreciate
y'all coming down here to cover this
and give us our time in the sun.
You deserve a good press.
Oh, I'm gonna remind you of that
- when you're writing the article.
- [LAUGHS]
How did you convince Mr. Porter
to make such a large contribution?
Barely off the train,
and already at work.
- Very good.
- [BOTH LAUGH]
Mr. Thompson.
Mr. Washington, I hear great things
about your new dormitory.
You should be congratulated.
That's kind of you. Thank you.
Have things changed
that much in the South
or is it just you?
We're making incremental
changes with the whites
but even bigger changes for ourselves.
You'll see when we get to the school.
♪
Would you like to come out
with me and see my father?
I can't.
I'm to meet my aunt in the park
right after school.
- We're walking home together.
- Miss Brook.
Hello, Miss Barnes.
- May I have a word with you?
- Of course.
Are you familiar with Jane Addams?
She's dedicated to social reform.
We're joining her in starting
some charity classes
for which we need teachers.
I would like you to help
with this cause.
Would I teach painting
at Miss Addams' classes?
No, they need skills
to give them a chance in life.
Reading, writing, basic arithmetic.
- That sort of thing.
- I see.
Thank you for thinking of me.
Of course.
♪
- [INDISTINCT CHATTER]
- You hate peonies.
- No. Why would you say that?
- [LAUGHS]
I've not given flowers to many women,
but I don't think you should be worried.
They're lovely.
But I admit, I do wonder
what Agnes will think.
Those flowers are for you, Ada Brook.
No one else.
They're very beautiful.
- Thank you.
- [THUNDER RUMBLES]
- Oh.
- [BOTH LAUGH]
- Yes.
- [BOTH LAUGH]
Right this way, sir. Right this way.
- Oh, thank you.
- [THUNDER RUMBLING]
- Oh, my.
- [HORSE WHINNIES]
What about Marian?
We can't leave without her.
Well, she won't come here in the rain.
Why don't we go by the school
to see if she's still there?
Oh, yes. Let's do that.
- [THUNDER RUMBLING]
- Some gossip has reached me
that I confess I find disquieting.
I thought I was here to talk
about the new opera house.
That can wait.
Did you see the article?
About you and Larry?
How can you be so sure?
It gave no names.
Don't think I care
what they write about you.
But I do not want them
to connect you with my son.
Larry is working for me.
You've had your fun.
Isn't it time to end it?
What are you talking about?
What is it that you want from him?
You can't give him an heir.
In 20 years, when he is in his prime,
you'll be walking with a stick.
Even if he feels too guilty to leave,
part of him will be
waiting for you to die.
You must remember what that was like
when you were married to your husband.
How dare you say such things?
I dare because they're true.
- I'm leaving.
- Very well.
- And about the opera
- I don't care about the opera.
Well, that's good,
because since I wrote,
the boxes have all gone.
So I came here for nothing.
I'm afraid it looks that way.
[LIGHT MUSIC]
♪
Thank you.
I enjoyed myself, despite the rain.
I look forward to our next meeting.
I suppose that will be Sunday.
- Can I see you sooner?
- How?
You could come by the church
to discuss missionary charities.
Or sit with me for choir rehearsal.
Can you get away tomorrow evening?
Agnes doesn't keep me captive.
Good. I don't think I have the patience
to wait until Sunday.
Till then.
[BRIGHT MUSIC]
♪
Oh.
What happened?
You never came to the park.
The headmistress asked
to speak to me after school,
and by then it was raining,
so I caught a cab.
- Oh.
- Did the rector drop you off?
- Yes.
- Did he give you those?
He did. Would you take
care of them for me?
I don't have the strength
to explain them to Agnes.
I better change.
I think it'll be worthwhile.
[SIGHS] You must be proud.
It means the headmistress
thinks highly of you.
When does it begin,
teaching these beggars?
Please don't call them that.
I thought tomorrow night,
we might try that lamb receipt
from the "Ladies Home Journal."
I've given it to Mrs. Bauer.
Oh. Mrs. Wilson's asked me to dine.
The Fanes are going.
I accepted because I thought
you'd be out.
My dinner was canceled.
Mrs. Temple is ill.
I'll have to tell Mrs. Bauer
it will just be the two of us.
Actually, I have plans
for tomorrow evening.
Plans? What can you mean?
- [BEE BUZZES]
- What sort of plans?
I have business
to attend to at the church.
Presumably, this is
the Reverend Mr. Forte again?
He wants to discuss
the missionary charities.
He's working all day,
so he asked me to come in later.
There's to be a choir practice.
And what will you do about dinner?
I'm sure he'll see to it
that I don't go hungry.
- [BEE BUZZING]
- Shh. Shh.
- Oh!
- Oh.
Marian thinks you are engaged
in a full-blown flirtation.
- What?
- You mean with the Reverend, Mr. Forte?
- Why, are there others?
- Of course not.
I never said that, Aunt Agnes.
I think you did.
Marian likes to embroider things
to tease me, to tease us both.
Because it would seem a poor
return after all these years
if you were to desert me now.
Agnes, what has got into you?
So Mr. Forte is nothing?
He is an extremely nice man,
and I like him very much.
That is all I feel for him,
and I am quite sure
it is all he feels for me.
- [BEE BUZZING]
- But if it were more?
If ifs and ands were pots and pans,
- there'd be no need for tinkers.
- I'm serious.
I refuse to be serious
about this subject.
[SQUEAL] Oh!
Bannister, remove the flowers
and the bee that inhabits them.
Where did they come from?
They're mine.
They were a present.
From Cousin Dashiell?
From the parents of a pupil.
Bannister, we're done with this.
- [ALARM RINGING]
- What on Earth is that noise?
I think it may be my clock alarm.
Telling you what?
That it's time to clear the plates?
Go and turn it off at once.
- I'll fetch the dessert.
- Better not.
It might attract more bees.
I'm sorry to summon you here.
I'm rather enjoying it.
It's some time since I've been
in a banker's office.
- But I had my own once.
- Please.
How many of your fellow servants know
why you've come here?
Just some of the senior staff.
The butler, the chef, the housekeeper.
That's all.
This is exactly what I cannot have.
The news spreading through New York
that your father-in-law is a valet?
I don't expect you to understand.
But I understand perfectly.
I'm afraid it won't be possible
for you and Mrs. McNeil to meet.
She's asked me to speak for her
and to thank you
if you decide to accept our offer
and move to the West Coast.
I hope that's enough.
- No, it's not.
- Why not?
- Because I must hear it from her.
- I'm sorry.
- Do you mean to suggest that I'm lying?
- No.
What else can it be?
I have relayed her wishes.
I have given you her decision.
What other reason can you have
for refusing to believe it?
I am not suggesting anything.
I am not refusing anything.
I am telling you in as polite
and straightforward a manner
as possible that I won't give up my job
or leave the city without discussing it
with my daughter.
You're a very stubborn man.
- I might say the same.
- Very well.
Flora will be very disappointed
that her happiness
is of no concern to you.
I will not answer that
since you know it to be
the very reverse of the truth.
Not just stubborn then,
but also insolent.
If you will forgive me, Mr. McNeil,
I must be getting back.
[SOFT MUSIC]
♪
[PIANO NOTES PLAY]
[PIANO NOTES PLAY]
- Mrs. Bruce?
- What are you doing up here?
Oh, menus, of course.
What else would
when I was out earlier, I saw a poster
- for a concert in Central Park.
- Oh.
What kind of concert?
Well, it was a medley.
Some opera Verdi, Brahms,
Mendelssohn overture
to "A Midsummer Night's Dream."
That sort of thing.
Um [CLEARS THROAT]
Would you like to go?
What? Together?
That's well, that's the idea.
Yes, I would.
[LIGHT MUSIC]
You've made me glad.
♪
- [DOOR SLAMS]
- Mr. Joshua Winterton?
You are good to come.
When Mrs. Astor summons me,
I know what I must do.
[BOTH LAUGH]
But why was I not
to tell Mrs. Winterton?
Because I wanted you to tell her
when you know what it's about.
- [CHUCKLES]
- Please.
This is very difficult to say.
But I have lately learned more
of Mrs. Winterton's career,
which leads me to think
that she might not be
entirely happy at the Academy.
Oh, she very much enjoys the Academy.
Oh, I'm sure she thinks she does.
But I do not believe that she will find
the other box holders congenial
when she gets to know them better.
Why is that?
There is too great a contrast
in her journey through life.
What are you saying?
That Mrs. Winterton is somehow
unsuited to be a box holder?
Are you implying there is
something disreputable
in my wife's past?
Because if you are
I'm not saying anything of the sort.
But her history is quite unlike
that of the other ladies
she will meet there.
I don't know what you're talking about.
Can you be clearer?
That is for Mrs. Winterton to say.
But in the meantime,
we must surrender our box.
If you don't mind.
But I do mind. I mind very much.
You know, if we go, we must transfer
to the new Metropolitan.
And we will take as many
of our old friends as we can.
Even so, that might be best.
And this is a general decision?
The board has spoken of it, yes.
Very well.
I cannot fight you when
the blade has already fallen.
But let me give you a warning.
I will not forget this,
and nor will you.
[SPIRITED MUSIC]
[SIGHS]
♪
He hasn't arrived yet.
- How can you be sure?
- We'll know.
What do we call him when we meet?
Your Highness? Sir?
Your Grace is the formal title.
And we're to address him as Your Grace?
You've got to be kidding.
Mr. McAllister says
that when we meet him socially,
we should just call him Duke.
If the only gain
in our fight for independence
was to dispense with British titles,
- then it was surely worth it.
- [LAUGHS]
Mrs. Russell, what are you doing here?
Oh, did we need your permission?
I only meant I wasn't aware
you knew the Duke.
I hear work on the Metropolitan
has been suspended for a while?
Well, that's been sorted out.
- It was a slight hitch, nothing more.
- So it won't upset your plan
to open on the same night
as the Academy?
Good. I'm looking forward to it.
Me too. I enjoy competition.
Is that true?
That everything's
back on track with the Met?
Problem solved.
Work will start again in the morning.
What? How?
I hope you haven't put
your own money into it
when I promised you wouldn't have to.
No, it was just bad accounting.
I had Clay look into it,
and it's been sorted out.
[SIGHS] That is wonderful.
- Thank you.
- [DOOR CLICKS]
- Stay here.
- [INDISTINCT CHATTER]
♪
May I help you, ma'am?
No, thank you.
I'll see you then.
Ladies and gentlemen,
His Grace, the Duke of Buckingham.
♪
Your Grace.
Oh, he's much younger
than I thought he'd be.
What were you expecting?
Well, don't most dukes
inherit in late middle age?
I don't know sufficient dukes
to make a meaningful comparison.
And so you shall.
- Do you know
- [INDISTINCT CHATTER]
[LIGHT MUSIC]
♪
- I'll see you at the table then.
- Come.
♪
- I
- [INDISTINCT CHATTER]
♪
Excuse me, sir, I believe your wife
is at the wrong chair.
You're mistaken.
Mrs. Russell is
exactly where she should be.
Ah, Mrs. Russell.
I am pleased.
- I've heard all about you from Mr. Burns.
- [INDISTINCT CHATTER]
I can't be sitting here.
It seems you are, Mrs. Winterton.
Is that so terrible a fate?
Good gracious, it's you.
Good evening, Mr. Van Rhijn.
I hoped we'd meet again,
but I never thought
it would be like this.
Life is full of surprises.
I'm sorry if you're disappointed
to find yourself next to me.
It's not that exactly,
but I was told my place was
- [LIGHT CHATTER]
- Oh, never mind. We're here now.
We are. And you have till
the next course
to describe your ascension.
How did you do it? I long to hear.
In a way, it's a relief
to be with someone
who knows my whole story.
But first, is my husband all right?
Who are we looking at?
My husband, Mr. Winterton.
This is Miss Maud Beaton.
Mrs. Winterton, Mr. Winterton
is seated down there.
Next to Lillie Langtry, the actress.
I met her when I was in London.
She's bound to know the Duke.
She had a long romance
with the Prince of Wales.
I met her when the Duke entertained us
at Sidmouth Castle.
How do you two know each other?
We used to be neighbors, in a way.
♪
Mm-hmm
- Is something the matter?
- [LAUGHS]
It's the way the Americans lay a table.
I can't get used to it.
- Does that make me sound provincial?
- [LAUGHS]
I'm sorry they didn't get it right.
If I were hosting the dinner,
I can promise you I would.
Is that an invitation, Mrs. Russell?
- Oh, let's see how tonight goes.
- [LAUGHS]
You have a house in Newport, don't you?
I'm supposed to be visiting there
to stay with the Wintertons.
You don't sound very enthusiastic.
To be honest, I don't know
how I got roped into it.
But I would like to see the town.
I've heard so much about the place.
Then why not come
and stay with us instead?
We have two children
not much younger than you.
If only I could.
Of course you can.
The Wintertons won't mind.
I'll give a dinner and ask them.
They won't be offended.
They'll probably be relieved.
- Do you really think so?
- Absolutely.
- Hmm.
- [CHUCKLES]
[LIGHT CHATTER]
I find the campus invigorating.
It reminds me of my days at
the Institute in Philadelphia.
All of the young colored students
working towards their dreams,
whether or not they come true.
It's still just so full of hope.
That's exactly how you should
describe it in your paper.
[LAUGHTER]
It's impressive, I agree,
but we must remain impartial
and not be unduly influenced by you
- or this delicious dinner.
- Thank you.
I want to persuade Fannie
to add a cooking class
to our curriculum.
- I teach plenty of useful classes.
- Like what?
We have a dressmaking division now.
The female students make uniforms
that we actually sell.
It's created a source
of revenue for the school.
And trains the students for
higher paying domestic work,
if they can't get a teaching job.
I'll show you while you're here.
Of course, the girls will be
in awe of what you're doing.
In awe because?
That's something they can
never imagine for themselves.
Well, I blush at the idea
that anyone would want
to be me. [LAUGHTER]
I was once at a state dinner
for the Bey of Egypt,
and there was an armed coup
just after the pudding.
You can't be serious.
I certainly am.
All the servants vanished,
and eventually,
I went to look for the cheese
with the wife
of the French ambassador.
And instead, we were met with bayonets.
Oh, goodness.
Well, I think it's safe to assume
you'll make it
through tonight's dinner alive.
[CHUCKLES] Are you willing to promise?
I promise we'll get past the cheese.
- [LAUGHS]
- She certainly is.
- So the pudding's safe, then?
- [BOTH LAUGH]
So what did Aurora tell you about me?
Just that your family's complicated,
like every other family I know.
He is using me to do business
and keep his own name out of it.
Can't you just tell him no?
Could you tell your father no
when he was alive?
- I wish I could help.
- [LIGHT CHATTER]
Now, I applaud what you're doing.
But can't you teach them to fight?
They may gain a degree here,
but in the white world,
these proud students must learn
to creep and crawl
before they're allowed to exist.
Our lives aren't so different.
Things may be worse in the South,
but even in New York,
we enter through the back door.
We're not welcome in the white stores
or restaurants or anywhere else.
I've been asked to make the characters
in my stories white
in order to be published.
Maybe, but you can still earn
a living as a writer.
What is a colored dairy farmer
trained at Tuskegee do
when the white man won't pay
a fair rate?
Why not sell to a colored man?
Because that man is
probably just a sharecropper
and can't afford it.
Until we demand our rights
as full citizens,
we won't get anywhere.
Of course, I understand
your anger, Mr. Fortune.
Do you think I don't feel it?
But it doesn't work down here.
To build Tuskegee into what it is now,
I have had to make peace
with the white folk.
The white men terrorize
colored folks in these parts,
and no one does anything.
I'm not making deals
with the white people who terrorize us.
- How can you tell the difference?
- [SCOFFS]
You were a slave and so was I.
How do you make peace with
people who bought and sold us?
Who branded us like cattle,
whipped us on Saturday,
then sat in church on Sunday
without a morsel of shame?
Some may keep silent, Mr. Fortune,
because they tried your way
and they got killed for their trouble.
I don't mean to scare you, Miss Scott.
You're only telling the truth.
But what if you ever stop
playing their game?
If you stop being calm
and keeping the peace?
We are opening the largest
building in Tuskegee.
It will hold offices, a kitchen,
living space for students and faculty.
You don't get that by picking fights.
Well, I think that the Tuskegee School
is a political argument in itself.
Can't you see that you both
want the same things?
It's only your methods that differ.
I just know I'm unwilling
to make nice with people
who'd lynch at will.
Mrs. Washington, this is delicious.
- You have outdone yourself.
- Well, thank you.
[BIRDS CHIRPING] [ROOSTER CROWS]
Oh. I'm sorry to wake you so early.
- Is something wrong?
- No, no.
I just had a thought last night.
- It's about a new angle for our article.
- Well, what is it?
You know,
everyone we've talked to so far
has had to speak
in front of Mr. Washington.
- Mm-hmm.
- What if we speak
to some of the students
without him there
so they can say what they really think
about what a day at Tuskegee
means to them
and how their education will
affect them later in life.
You see, Miss Scott,
I knew I brought you
down here for a reason.
Well, a student's day
at Tuskegee starts now.
[ENERGETIC MUSIC]
♪
[LIVELY CHATTER]
So you all do this every morning?
Only on the mornings
when we want to eat, sir.
[CHUCKLES] Is dairy farming
your main study?
We get to do a bit of everything.
I'm only just back on farming.
Before, I was building the new
dormitory y'all are here for.
You built it yourself?
Me and the other students.
It's part of our masonry class.
So it was an actual assignment.
Yeah, that's how it tends
to work at the school.
For instance, we plant
the crops in the morning,
and then examine the soil
that afternoon.
- [COW MOOS]
- Oh!
You ain't been around a cow before?
- Not this close.
- [LAUGHS NERVOUSLY]
New Yorkers like to look at animals,
but they don't touch them much.
Would you like me
to teach you to milk her?
Oh, I don't think so.
We're only here to write an article.
Go for it, Miss Scott.
When are you ever gonna get
another chance?
- Certainly not on 61st Street.
- [SCOFFS]
All right. [LAUGHS]
So you have to pull real hard.
Don't worry, you won't hurt her.
[LAUGHS] I did it! [LAUGHS]
You sure did.
Thank you! What's your name?
David Sturt, ma'am.
Well, thank you, David. [CHUCKLES]
[INDISTINCT CHATTER]
You'd never think
a clock had so many pieces.
I would.
Shouldn't you just give it up
and buy a new one?
Oh, you wait.
It may have gone off during dinner,
but now he knows why, don't you, Jack?
Is she right, John?
Are you on the track of the answer?
I think so.
I think the problem is
with the escape wheel,
what they call the escapement.
If the oil is thickening on it,
it could be slowing down the movement.
You're talking like a scientist.
He's talking like a clockmaker,
which is more to the point.
But what can you do about it?
Well, I'm trying
to improve the escape wheel
so it runs without oil.
- Good luck with that, I don't think.
- Not so fast.
Let's just be patient
and see how it turns out.
I'm off, my dear.
Well, where are you off to?
I have a fitting at 11:00,
so I'll see you at luncheon.
Before you go, there's something
I've been meaning to tell you.
I would have said it sooner,
but I didn't want to spoil
- the dinner with the Duke.
- I'm listening.
Mrs. Astor has asked us
to surrender our box at the Academy.
What? Why?
Something about your past career
being too different for the wives
of the other box holders.
But how did she know that
How did she know what?
That I worked at one time
as a sort of companion
to Mrs. Russell.
Mrs. George Russell?
I had no money.
I had to survive somehow.
I thought I told you.
Maybe you did.
But what is wrong
with being a companion anyway?
Many ladies of insufficient
means do exactly the same.
Of course they do.
But why did Mrs. Russell
need a companion
when she had her husband
to keep her company?
Well, that was why I left.
I suppose she must have mentioned it.
But she couldn't have known
Mrs. Astor would react so badly.
No, she can't have expected that.
- [INDISTINCT CHATTER]
- It was my boyhood dream.
To be a Duke?
More that I wanted to be king.
Of any particular country?
I hadn't worked out the details.
- I was eight.
- [BOTH LAUGH]
You do make me laugh, Mr. Van Rhijn.
Oh, how I need that
after a day of contracts
and stock certificates.
My head is spinning.
I hate being a part of it.
I even thought of doing what you said.
Remind me of my sage advice.
To tell him no.
I just have to summon
the courage to do it.
- What if I could help?
- How?
I am a banker.
I might be able to do something.
- Murderer!
- [CROWD YELLING]
Are you facing a strike
in Pittsburgh, Mr. Russell?
Will you keep on ignoring
your workers' demands?
Murderer!
You have blood on your hands,
Mr. Russell!
[TENSE MUSIC]
♪
Why must I be the villain
in every story?
I employ thousands of men.
I have lifted whole towns
out of poverty.
And yet I'm the tyrant
who crushes the faces of the poor.
I'm told they have a date set
for the strike.
Pinkerton's men say the same.
And it'll be soon.
We're ready whenever it comes.
We have defenses around
the mills, across the river.
And we have enough scabs
to keep production running.
Let me be clear, Mr. Russell.
The strikers will do whatever it takes
to keep the scabs out.
The governor has given me his word.
His militia will get the scabs
into the mills.
We hope.
They won't fight against armed men.
They will if they're armed themselves.
Hello. Mrs. Blane is expecting me.
Thank you. I can take
care of Mr. Russell.
I'm sorry I'm late, but I've
got the carriage right here,
and Mrs. Fish won't mind.
You haven't changed.
I'm not going to the dinner.
What is it? Are you ill?
And why are we standing in the doorway?
- Can't I come in?
- I'd rather you didn't.
[SOMBER MUSIC]
Well, then may I have an explanation?
I think we should call a halt.
I don't understand.
We should stop seeing each other.
No damage has been done,
nothing that won't be forgotten
within a week.
But if we continue as we were,
things might get complicated.
Yes. They will get complicated
because we're going to be married
and live together until we die.
Please, Larry, you're making this
more difficult than it needs to be.
I think it needs to be damned difficult.
What prompted it? Tell me!
Was this because of my mother?
Do you want me to take her on?
Because I will.
Don't. It won't be any good.
- Then what can I do?
- Nothing.
There's nothing to be done.
We had a fling.
And we enjoyed it. At least I did.
Now, it's time for us
to move on with our lives.
Here I was thinking
we had a future, but no.
Goodbye, Larry.
Look after yourself,
and please try to be kind
- when you think of me.
- Wait!
♪
[CHOIR SINGING]
[HYMNAL MUSIC]
♪
ALL: For the beauty of the Earth ♪
For the glory of the skies ♪
[LAUGHS] I'm sorry.
- For what?
- For laughing in church.
The Lord likes to see you laugh.
I know I do.
It feels sacrilegious.
I promise you, he won't mind.
Do you know Mr. and Mrs. Robert Duncan?
They sit about three pews
behind you and your sister.
Do you know where all
of your parishioners sit?
Mostly. Yes. [LAUGHS]
What was it you were saying
about the Duncans?
Oh, they offered me their box
for the Academy of Music next Tuesday.
- How generous!
- It is generous.
And it makes me feel
like a real New Yorker.
Mm.
I was wondering
if you would like to come.
Goodness. How kind.
It's to be "Aida."
Have you heard it?
I I know it's very moving.
It's a love story.
Well, of course,
it's a tragic love story.
Mm.
What do you say?
Well, I ought to check with Agnes.
But
To He we raise this our hymn ♪
I'd love to come.
Thank you very much.
Good.
- So I'll collect you at 6:00.
- Mm.
[SOFT MUSIC]
Forgive me.
I have another question to ask you.
- What is it?
- [CHUCKLES]
I was going to ask you after the opera,
but I can't wait.
What are you
Will you marry me, Miss Ada Brook?
♪
- Yes.
- [SIGHS]
Yes, Mr. Luke Forte.
Yes, I will.
♪
Please give my compliments
to Mrs. Bauer.
- I will, ma'am.
- Thank you, Bannister.
♪
[LIGHT MUSIC]
♪
I heard from the Duke.
He says he'll stay with us
when he comes to Newport.
- Really?
- Really.
And you know what it means?
My first event there will be
the talk of the whole town.
We won't have a single refusal
unless people are at death's door.
And even then, they may
take up their beds and walk.
You've never said if you liked him.
To be honest, it doesn't take
much to make a Duke likeable.
But yes, I like him.
He's young, unstuffy,
and more polite than I expected.
And what will Mrs. Winterton
make of all this?
Or don't you care?
Should I care about the feelings
of a former lady's maid who attempted
to seduce my husband?
May I find hope in your use
of the word "attempted"?
It was never her claim that hurt me
but your silence.
Will you forgive me now?
If I do, enjoy it.
There will be no more forgiveness
if you hide any such thing
from me again.
[SOFT MUSIC]
[SIGHS]
♪
I've missed you, my darling.
You can't know how much.
I haven't been anywhere.
Oh, yes you have.
♪
[BRIGHT MUSIC]
♪
- Aurora, my dear. Look at this.
- [GASPS]
We'd better get
our skates on, Mr. Borden,
if we're to host the Duke of Buckingham.
- Oh, my.
- What is it?
Apparently, Mrs. Russell is to entertain
- an English duke at her home in Newport.
- Please.
He is to be the guest
of Mr. and Mrs. George Russell
in Newport. She's giving
a dinner in his honor.
Perhaps, we'll be invited.
First, she has me
thrown out of the Academy.
- And now this?
- My dear, please, don't upset yourself.
I will upset myself.
And I'll upset Mrs. George Russell
if it's the last thing I do.
Enid, there will be other dukes.
I don't want other dukes!
I want this duke!
We found him, and he's mine!
But that witch has stolen him from me!
[SPIRITED ORCHESTRAL MUSIC]
[TV STATIC DRONES]
[BRIGHT TONE]
[SPIRITED ORCHESTRAL MUSIC]
♪
As you can see, we are
entering into the final phase
of our grand enterprise.
And we're eager that all of you,
our principal patrons and sponsors,
should be the first to witness
what the new
Metropolitan Opera will bring
to the great city of New York.
And now, I shall hand you
over to Mr. Gilbert
so he can answer any questions
you may have.
Ladies and gentlemen,
if you'd like to follow me
into the auditorium.
[LIGHT MUSIC]
♪
This way.
The work may not be done,
but it is nearly done.
And the first tier where
most of you have taken boxes
- needs only its finishing touches.
- [INDISTINCT WHISPERING]
And now, I give you
the grandest opera house
in the world, the new Metropolitan!
[EXCITED CHATTER]
- My heavens.
- [INDISTINCT CHATTER]
As you can see,
the theater is monumental.
Mrs. Winterton, you came.
Your letter made me curious.
And you're right. It's very splendid.
Are you thinking
of crossing over to our side?
No, I'm afraid not.
Mr. Winterton values his box
at the Academy so highly,
as you'll understand better than most.
Mrs. Russell, Mrs. Winterton,
would you mind
holding that pose for just a second
while our artist makes a sketch
for "The Daily Graphic"?
Not me. I support the Academy.
- Just you then, Mrs. Russell.
- Of course.
Which box is yours?
Oh, nothing is final yet.
And I'm to believe that?
You're kind to let me come today
when you know I'll fail you.
That won't stop me
placing temptation in your way.
Is it all progressing smoothly?
I don't see any workmen.
Oh, they must have cleared them
- for the patrons' visit.
- Ah.
Mrs. Russell, did you see the item
in a Newport paper recently?
There were no names, but people say
it was about your son and a Mrs. Blane.
He seems to be very fond of her.
We're all fond of Mrs. Blane.
He's starting out as an architect,
and she has commissioned him
to renovate her house there.
So I suppose they've come
to know each other pretty well.
Yes, we all know and like Mrs. Blane.
- And now I must go.
- Oh.
What cheek these people have.
I don't know
where they get their nonsense.
- I'm sure there's nothing to it, but
- But what?
Nothing, really.
I wasn't going to tell you.
It was just that
Maud Beaton made a comment
when we all went to see that play.
She seemed to think something
was going on between them,
but it was a joke.
Of course it was.
- If I could have a word, Mrs. Russell?
- [INDISTINCT CHATTER]
- I'm afraid I have bad news.
- Does it have anything to do
- with the absence of any workers?
- Precisely.
The money's run out.
We are badly behind in our schedule
for selling leases on the boxes.
I'll help with that.
If you can help,
Mrs. Russell, please do,
and don't waste any time.
♪
I hope Miss Ada realizes
that entertaining means a lot of work.
It's for a good cause.
I think she likes the rector.
Oh, she likes him very much.
And she's earned a bit of happiness.
How's the clock coming on?
Good, I think.
I'm going to start testing it this week.
Should we all wear helmets?
- Oh.
- Bishop Riley has been a missionary
in Mexico City for years,
saving lives and sharing the gospel.
So I hope I've convinced you to join me
- in supporting his noble cause.
- [APPLAUSE]
Calm down. It wasn't
the Gettysburg Address.
What he said was so moving.
The pamphlets on how
you may help the mission
are on the table as you pass
through to the dining room
where we invite you
to join us now for some tea.
- Thank you.
- [LIGHT CHATTER]
I shouldn't have thought
that this would be
of much interest to you.
I came to support Aunt Ada.
Besides, Miss Beaton is keen
to help spread the Christian word.
And how does that sit with you?
I gladly support good causes
from the comfort of Fifth Avenue.
That bishop sounds so courageous.
I just wish I were brave enough
to do something practical to help.
Why don't I make a donation
in your name?
Really?
You continue to surprise me,
Mr. Van Rhijn.
And you continue
to inspire me, Miss Beaton.
I wish I knew
what to make of your cousin.
Well, I've never seen him
like this with anyone.
You bring out the best in him.
- And I'm glad.
- We should go.
Are you leaving so soon?
I'm afraid Miss Brook is expected
- at my daughter's school tea.
- Oh.
Tell Oscar goodbye for me.
Of course.
- Shall we?
Well, there's no need
for you to escort me.
I know my way to the school.
It's the least I can do.
Oh, Greece was my favorite
of all the mission trips.
- But that was so long ago.
- Mm.
Why did you stop?
When my father died,
my mother was alone.
I looked after her until the end.
Still, you must miss
your missionary work.
If I were counting my regrets,
I would put lack of travel
as number one.
- It's not too late for you to travel.
- [LAUGHS]
I shan't argue, since I hope it's true.
Miss Brook, there's so much
that you can still do.
[GENTLE MUSIC]
♪
Oh, there you are.
I want to thank both of you
for holding this gathering for me.
- We were glad to do it.
- Well, you know Ada.
Never happier than when
she's doing good works.
Sure you don't want
anything else to eat?
What about some more tea?
All right, I'll have another cup of tea.
I see Mrs. Montgomery. Excuse me.
- Thank you.
- Of course.
Your daughter is charming,
and so old for her age.
- She isn't
- And she's just like her father.
I've watched him
when he comes to collect her.
I must say, you have him
wonderfully trained.
She is like her father, yes.
I don't think we've met,
Mrs. Montgomery.
- I'm Mrs. Glennie.
- I'm not Mrs. Montgomery.
I'm Miss Brook,
and I'm Frances's cousin.
- I teach here.
- I see.
I do apologize.
Oh, you'll know my daughter,
Sarah Glennie.
Of course.
- She's a credit to you.
- Yes.
Well good.
I'd better see that she's all right.
- There she is.
- What were you saying to Mrs. Glennie?
Nothing much.
Miss Brook, we're so happy to see you.
- Ah.
- You're our favorite teacher.
Thank you, but let's
keep that to ourselves.
- [LAUGHTER]
- Ah, here's your father.
Am I too early?
No, I think it's just breaking up now.
You're very kind to have
given Frances your afternoon.
Oh, I've enjoyed it.
It's nice to see all the girls
and their families.
And now, here we are, the three of us.
Because we make a rather neat
little family too now,
don't we?
- Oh.
- [LAUGHS]
You mustn't frighten Miss Brook.
- You're not frightened, are you?
- I'm coming!
Of course not.
I've had a lovely time,
but now I should get back.
- The carriage is outside.
- No, I'll walk.
- I usually do.
- Nonsense.
No one in our little family walks,
not when there's a perfectly
good carriage waiting.
She's very grateful, and so am I.
[GIRLS CHATTERING]
You're not still worried
about that stupid article.
Stupid or not, we have to be careful.
It was just fizz for a gossip column.
What does it matter? Ignore it.
You are a bachelor
sowing your wild oats.
You have nothing to lose.
You worry too much.
- No one cares.
- People care.
- What is it?
- Your mother has written to me.
She's asked me to call on her
the next time I'm in New York.
And does she say why?
Well, it seems to be
about getting me to take
- a box at the Metropolitan.
- Oh, I see.
Yes, it would be.
But why couldn't it wait
until she was back in Newport?
She wouldn't want to wait.
She thinks of nothing else
at the moment.
Will you see her while you're there?
What reason could I
possibly have for refusing?
Just don't let her worry you.
When will you get back to Newport?
Thursday, in time
for Mrs. Fish's dinner.
I'll pick you up at 8:00.
Should we arrive together?
I'll drop you at the door,
drive around the block,
and come in later.
And for what it's worth,
I'm not sowing any wild oats
Because I love you.
And I'm very much afraid
that I love you, Mr. Russell.
Which was not part of the original plan.
[SOFT, TENSE MUSIC]
♪
Are we dining together this evening?
I don't think so.
That's a pity, because I have good news.
It's about the Duke of Buckingham.
I wrote to John Burns,
the English chairman of Cunard.
It seems he knows the Duke well.
We were invited to a reception.
With the Duke?
Of course, with the Duke.
I said you could fix things
if you put your mind to it.
How was your patrons' tour
of the opera house?
- Did it go well?
- Not entirely.
We have a problem. The work stopped.
- Won't they sort it out?
- Maybe.
But the opening could be delayed
when it's all arranged.
We could even lose our singers.
Do you want me to look into it?
I'd be grateful if you would.
Apart from that,
did you feel it went well?
I think so,
although Mrs. Winterton took
the chance to rub my face
in her membership in the Academy.
And a journalist asked me
about some gossip
in a Newport paper,
which some people seem to think
is about Larry and Mrs. Blane.
- What did you say?
- What could I say?
That he's working for her
as her architect?
- Well, that's true.
- It's spreading, George.
It'll be all over New York
before too long.
- You'll control it.
- Is that all I'm good for?
Running around with a blanket
to put out the fires?
Trying to make sure
Larry stays out of trouble,
making sure
Gladys meets the right people.
I cover all your backs,
but who's covering mine?
I hope I am.
- That's what I mean to do.
- [SIGHS]
For me, no one living is
more important than you.
I know.
What do you propose to do about Larry?
I'm going to talk to Mrs. Blane.
- And what will you say?
- Only the truth.
It's usually for the best.
Have you answered
Mr. McNeil's letter yet?
No and before you ask,
it's because I don't quite know
what that answer should be.
It must be very difficult for you.
Because I need to be sure
that it's right for her.
Do you think he'll renege on the terms?
No, he says
that he'll make me comfortable.
I'm sure that he will.
But I need to know
that it's what she wants.
Then tell him.
Write to him and explain
that you need to hear it from her.
You're right. I'll do it.
- [BRIGHT MUSIC]
- [TRAIN WHISTLE BLOWS]
It's an honor to meet you,
Mr. Washington.
My pleasure. It's quite the journey
from New York.
An important journey.
My wife will be delighted to have
another lady in the house.
I look forward to meeting her.
And I can't wait to see
the campus of the dormitory.
- Yes.
- Well, I appreciate
y'all coming down here to cover this
and give us our time in the sun.
You deserve a good press.
Oh, I'm gonna remind you of that
- when you're writing the article.
- [LAUGHS]
How did you convince Mr. Porter
to make such a large contribution?
Barely off the train,
and already at work.
- Very good.
- [BOTH LAUGH]
Mr. Thompson.
Mr. Washington, I hear great things
about your new dormitory.
You should be congratulated.
That's kind of you. Thank you.
Have things changed
that much in the South
or is it just you?
We're making incremental
changes with the whites
but even bigger changes for ourselves.
You'll see when we get to the school.
♪
Would you like to come out
with me and see my father?
I can't.
I'm to meet my aunt in the park
right after school.
- We're walking home together.
- Miss Brook.
Hello, Miss Barnes.
- May I have a word with you?
- Of course.
Are you familiar with Jane Addams?
She's dedicated to social reform.
We're joining her in starting
some charity classes
for which we need teachers.
I would like you to help
with this cause.
Would I teach painting
at Miss Addams' classes?
No, they need skills
to give them a chance in life.
Reading, writing, basic arithmetic.
- That sort of thing.
- I see.
Thank you for thinking of me.
Of course.
♪
- [INDISTINCT CHATTER]
- You hate peonies.
- No. Why would you say that?
- [LAUGHS]
I've not given flowers to many women,
but I don't think you should be worried.
They're lovely.
But I admit, I do wonder
what Agnes will think.
Those flowers are for you, Ada Brook.
No one else.
They're very beautiful.
- Thank you.
- [THUNDER RUMBLES]
- Oh.
- [BOTH LAUGH]
- Yes.
- [BOTH LAUGH]
Right this way, sir. Right this way.
- Oh, thank you.
- [THUNDER RUMBLING]
- Oh, my.
- [HORSE WHINNIES]
What about Marian?
We can't leave without her.
Well, she won't come here in the rain.
Why don't we go by the school
to see if she's still there?
Oh, yes. Let's do that.
- [THUNDER RUMBLING]
- Some gossip has reached me
that I confess I find disquieting.
I thought I was here to talk
about the new opera house.
That can wait.
Did you see the article?
About you and Larry?
How can you be so sure?
It gave no names.
Don't think I care
what they write about you.
But I do not want them
to connect you with my son.
Larry is working for me.
You've had your fun.
Isn't it time to end it?
What are you talking about?
What is it that you want from him?
You can't give him an heir.
In 20 years, when he is in his prime,
you'll be walking with a stick.
Even if he feels too guilty to leave,
part of him will be
waiting for you to die.
You must remember what that was like
when you were married to your husband.
How dare you say such things?
I dare because they're true.
- I'm leaving.
- Very well.
- And about the opera
- I don't care about the opera.
Well, that's good,
because since I wrote,
the boxes have all gone.
So I came here for nothing.
I'm afraid it looks that way.
[LIGHT MUSIC]
♪
Thank you.
I enjoyed myself, despite the rain.
I look forward to our next meeting.
I suppose that will be Sunday.
- Can I see you sooner?
- How?
You could come by the church
to discuss missionary charities.
Or sit with me for choir rehearsal.
Can you get away tomorrow evening?
Agnes doesn't keep me captive.
Good. I don't think I have the patience
to wait until Sunday.
Till then.
[BRIGHT MUSIC]
♪
Oh.
What happened?
You never came to the park.
The headmistress asked
to speak to me after school,
and by then it was raining,
so I caught a cab.
- Oh.
- Did the rector drop you off?
- Yes.
- Did he give you those?
He did. Would you take
care of them for me?
I don't have the strength
to explain them to Agnes.
I better change.
I think it'll be worthwhile.
[SIGHS] You must be proud.
It means the headmistress
thinks highly of you.
When does it begin,
teaching these beggars?
Please don't call them that.
I thought tomorrow night,
we might try that lamb receipt
from the "Ladies Home Journal."
I've given it to Mrs. Bauer.
Oh. Mrs. Wilson's asked me to dine.
The Fanes are going.
I accepted because I thought
you'd be out.
My dinner was canceled.
Mrs. Temple is ill.
I'll have to tell Mrs. Bauer
it will just be the two of us.
Actually, I have plans
for tomorrow evening.
Plans? What can you mean?
- [BEE BUZZES]
- What sort of plans?
I have business
to attend to at the church.
Presumably, this is
the Reverend Mr. Forte again?
He wants to discuss
the missionary charities.
He's working all day,
so he asked me to come in later.
There's to be a choir practice.
And what will you do about dinner?
I'm sure he'll see to it
that I don't go hungry.
- [BEE BUZZING]
- Shh. Shh.
- Oh!
- Oh.
Marian thinks you are engaged
in a full-blown flirtation.
- What?
- You mean with the Reverend, Mr. Forte?
- Why, are there others?
- Of course not.
I never said that, Aunt Agnes.
I think you did.
Marian likes to embroider things
to tease me, to tease us both.
Because it would seem a poor
return after all these years
if you were to desert me now.
Agnes, what has got into you?
So Mr. Forte is nothing?
He is an extremely nice man,
and I like him very much.
That is all I feel for him,
and I am quite sure
it is all he feels for me.
- [BEE BUZZING]
- But if it were more?
If ifs and ands were pots and pans,
- there'd be no need for tinkers.
- I'm serious.
I refuse to be serious
about this subject.
[SQUEAL] Oh!
Bannister, remove the flowers
and the bee that inhabits them.
Where did they come from?
They're mine.
They were a present.
From Cousin Dashiell?
From the parents of a pupil.
Bannister, we're done with this.
- [ALARM RINGING]
- What on Earth is that noise?
I think it may be my clock alarm.
Telling you what?
That it's time to clear the plates?
Go and turn it off at once.
- I'll fetch the dessert.
- Better not.
It might attract more bees.
I'm sorry to summon you here.
I'm rather enjoying it.
It's some time since I've been
in a banker's office.
- But I had my own once.
- Please.
How many of your fellow servants know
why you've come here?
Just some of the senior staff.
The butler, the chef, the housekeeper.
That's all.
This is exactly what I cannot have.
The news spreading through New York
that your father-in-law is a valet?
I don't expect you to understand.
But I understand perfectly.
I'm afraid it won't be possible
for you and Mrs. McNeil to meet.
She's asked me to speak for her
and to thank you
if you decide to accept our offer
and move to the West Coast.
I hope that's enough.
- No, it's not.
- Why not?
- Because I must hear it from her.
- I'm sorry.
- Do you mean to suggest that I'm lying?
- No.
What else can it be?
I have relayed her wishes.
I have given you her decision.
What other reason can you have
for refusing to believe it?
I am not suggesting anything.
I am not refusing anything.
I am telling you in as polite
and straightforward a manner
as possible that I won't give up my job
or leave the city without discussing it
with my daughter.
You're a very stubborn man.
- I might say the same.
- Very well.
Flora will be very disappointed
that her happiness
is of no concern to you.
I will not answer that
since you know it to be
the very reverse of the truth.
Not just stubborn then,
but also insolent.
If you will forgive me, Mr. McNeil,
I must be getting back.
[SOFT MUSIC]
♪
[PIANO NOTES PLAY]
[PIANO NOTES PLAY]
- Mrs. Bruce?
- What are you doing up here?
Oh, menus, of course.
What else would
when I was out earlier, I saw a poster
- for a concert in Central Park.
- Oh.
What kind of concert?
Well, it was a medley.
Some opera Verdi, Brahms,
Mendelssohn overture
to "A Midsummer Night's Dream."
That sort of thing.
Um [CLEARS THROAT]
Would you like to go?
What? Together?
That's well, that's the idea.
Yes, I would.
[LIGHT MUSIC]
You've made me glad.
♪
- [DOOR SLAMS]
- Mr. Joshua Winterton?
You are good to come.
When Mrs. Astor summons me,
I know what I must do.
[BOTH LAUGH]
But why was I not
to tell Mrs. Winterton?
Because I wanted you to tell her
when you know what it's about.
- [CHUCKLES]
- Please.
This is very difficult to say.
But I have lately learned more
of Mrs. Winterton's career,
which leads me to think
that she might not be
entirely happy at the Academy.
Oh, she very much enjoys the Academy.
Oh, I'm sure she thinks she does.
But I do not believe that she will find
the other box holders congenial
when she gets to know them better.
Why is that?
There is too great a contrast
in her journey through life.
What are you saying?
That Mrs. Winterton is somehow
unsuited to be a box holder?
Are you implying there is
something disreputable
in my wife's past?
Because if you are
I'm not saying anything of the sort.
But her history is quite unlike
that of the other ladies
she will meet there.
I don't know what you're talking about.
Can you be clearer?
That is for Mrs. Winterton to say.
But in the meantime,
we must surrender our box.
If you don't mind.
But I do mind. I mind very much.
You know, if we go, we must transfer
to the new Metropolitan.
And we will take as many
of our old friends as we can.
Even so, that might be best.
And this is a general decision?
The board has spoken of it, yes.
Very well.
I cannot fight you when
the blade has already fallen.
But let me give you a warning.
I will not forget this,
and nor will you.
[SPIRITED MUSIC]
[SIGHS]
♪
He hasn't arrived yet.
- How can you be sure?
- We'll know.
What do we call him when we meet?
Your Highness? Sir?
Your Grace is the formal title.
And we're to address him as Your Grace?
You've got to be kidding.
Mr. McAllister says
that when we meet him socially,
we should just call him Duke.
If the only gain
in our fight for independence
was to dispense with British titles,
- then it was surely worth it.
- [LAUGHS]
Mrs. Russell, what are you doing here?
Oh, did we need your permission?
I only meant I wasn't aware
you knew the Duke.
I hear work on the Metropolitan
has been suspended for a while?
Well, that's been sorted out.
- It was a slight hitch, nothing more.
- So it won't upset your plan
to open on the same night
as the Academy?
Good. I'm looking forward to it.
Me too. I enjoy competition.
Is that true?
That everything's
back on track with the Met?
Problem solved.
Work will start again in the morning.
What? How?
I hope you haven't put
your own money into it
when I promised you wouldn't have to.
No, it was just bad accounting.
I had Clay look into it,
and it's been sorted out.
[SIGHS] That is wonderful.
- Thank you.
- [DOOR CLICKS]
- Stay here.
- [INDISTINCT CHATTER]
♪
May I help you, ma'am?
No, thank you.
I'll see you then.
Ladies and gentlemen,
His Grace, the Duke of Buckingham.
♪
Your Grace.
Oh, he's much younger
than I thought he'd be.
What were you expecting?
Well, don't most dukes
inherit in late middle age?
I don't know sufficient dukes
to make a meaningful comparison.
And so you shall.
- Do you know
- [INDISTINCT CHATTER]
[LIGHT MUSIC]
♪
- I'll see you at the table then.
- Come.
♪
- I
- [INDISTINCT CHATTER]
♪
Excuse me, sir, I believe your wife
is at the wrong chair.
You're mistaken.
Mrs. Russell is
exactly where she should be.
Ah, Mrs. Russell.
I am pleased.
- I've heard all about you from Mr. Burns.
- [INDISTINCT CHATTER]
I can't be sitting here.
It seems you are, Mrs. Winterton.
Is that so terrible a fate?
Good gracious, it's you.
Good evening, Mr. Van Rhijn.
I hoped we'd meet again,
but I never thought
it would be like this.
Life is full of surprises.
I'm sorry if you're disappointed
to find yourself next to me.
It's not that exactly,
but I was told my place was
- [LIGHT CHATTER]
- Oh, never mind. We're here now.
We are. And you have till
the next course
to describe your ascension.
How did you do it? I long to hear.
In a way, it's a relief
to be with someone
who knows my whole story.
But first, is my husband all right?
Who are we looking at?
My husband, Mr. Winterton.
This is Miss Maud Beaton.
Mrs. Winterton, Mr. Winterton
is seated down there.
Next to Lillie Langtry, the actress.
I met her when I was in London.
She's bound to know the Duke.
She had a long romance
with the Prince of Wales.
I met her when the Duke entertained us
at Sidmouth Castle.
How do you two know each other?
We used to be neighbors, in a way.
♪
Mm-hmm
- Is something the matter?
- [LAUGHS]
It's the way the Americans lay a table.
I can't get used to it.
- Does that make me sound provincial?
- [LAUGHS]
I'm sorry they didn't get it right.
If I were hosting the dinner,
I can promise you I would.
Is that an invitation, Mrs. Russell?
- Oh, let's see how tonight goes.
- [LAUGHS]
You have a house in Newport, don't you?
I'm supposed to be visiting there
to stay with the Wintertons.
You don't sound very enthusiastic.
To be honest, I don't know
how I got roped into it.
But I would like to see the town.
I've heard so much about the place.
Then why not come
and stay with us instead?
We have two children
not much younger than you.
If only I could.
Of course you can.
The Wintertons won't mind.
I'll give a dinner and ask them.
They won't be offended.
They'll probably be relieved.
- Do you really think so?
- Absolutely.
- Hmm.
- [CHUCKLES]
[LIGHT CHATTER]
I find the campus invigorating.
It reminds me of my days at
the Institute in Philadelphia.
All of the young colored students
working towards their dreams,
whether or not they come true.
It's still just so full of hope.
That's exactly how you should
describe it in your paper.
[LAUGHTER]
It's impressive, I agree,
but we must remain impartial
and not be unduly influenced by you
- or this delicious dinner.
- Thank you.
I want to persuade Fannie
to add a cooking class
to our curriculum.
- I teach plenty of useful classes.
- Like what?
We have a dressmaking division now.
The female students make uniforms
that we actually sell.
It's created a source
of revenue for the school.
And trains the students for
higher paying domestic work,
if they can't get a teaching job.
I'll show you while you're here.
Of course, the girls will be
in awe of what you're doing.
In awe because?
That's something they can
never imagine for themselves.
Well, I blush at the idea
that anyone would want
to be me. [LAUGHTER]
I was once at a state dinner
for the Bey of Egypt,
and there was an armed coup
just after the pudding.
You can't be serious.
I certainly am.
All the servants vanished,
and eventually,
I went to look for the cheese
with the wife
of the French ambassador.
And instead, we were met with bayonets.
Oh, goodness.
Well, I think it's safe to assume
you'll make it
through tonight's dinner alive.
[CHUCKLES] Are you willing to promise?
I promise we'll get past the cheese.
- [LAUGHS]
- She certainly is.
- So the pudding's safe, then?
- [BOTH LAUGH]
So what did Aurora tell you about me?
Just that your family's complicated,
like every other family I know.
He is using me to do business
and keep his own name out of it.
Can't you just tell him no?
Could you tell your father no
when he was alive?
- I wish I could help.
- [LIGHT CHATTER]
Now, I applaud what you're doing.
But can't you teach them to fight?
They may gain a degree here,
but in the white world,
these proud students must learn
to creep and crawl
before they're allowed to exist.
Our lives aren't so different.
Things may be worse in the South,
but even in New York,
we enter through the back door.
We're not welcome in the white stores
or restaurants or anywhere else.
I've been asked to make the characters
in my stories white
in order to be published.
Maybe, but you can still earn
a living as a writer.
What is a colored dairy farmer
trained at Tuskegee do
when the white man won't pay
a fair rate?
Why not sell to a colored man?
Because that man is
probably just a sharecropper
and can't afford it.
Until we demand our rights
as full citizens,
we won't get anywhere.
Of course, I understand
your anger, Mr. Fortune.
Do you think I don't feel it?
But it doesn't work down here.
To build Tuskegee into what it is now,
I have had to make peace
with the white folk.
The white men terrorize
colored folks in these parts,
and no one does anything.
I'm not making deals
with the white people who terrorize us.
- How can you tell the difference?
- [SCOFFS]
You were a slave and so was I.
How do you make peace with
people who bought and sold us?
Who branded us like cattle,
whipped us on Saturday,
then sat in church on Sunday
without a morsel of shame?
Some may keep silent, Mr. Fortune,
because they tried your way
and they got killed for their trouble.
I don't mean to scare you, Miss Scott.
You're only telling the truth.
But what if you ever stop
playing their game?
If you stop being calm
and keeping the peace?
We are opening the largest
building in Tuskegee.
It will hold offices, a kitchen,
living space for students and faculty.
You don't get that by picking fights.
Well, I think that the Tuskegee School
is a political argument in itself.
Can't you see that you both
want the same things?
It's only your methods that differ.
I just know I'm unwilling
to make nice with people
who'd lynch at will.
Mrs. Washington, this is delicious.
- You have outdone yourself.
- Well, thank you.
[BIRDS CHIRPING] [ROOSTER CROWS]
Oh. I'm sorry to wake you so early.
- Is something wrong?
- No, no.
I just had a thought last night.
- It's about a new angle for our article.
- Well, what is it?
You know,
everyone we've talked to so far
has had to speak
in front of Mr. Washington.
- Mm-hmm.
- What if we speak
to some of the students
without him there
so they can say what they really think
about what a day at Tuskegee
means to them
and how their education will
affect them later in life.
You see, Miss Scott,
I knew I brought you
down here for a reason.
Well, a student's day
at Tuskegee starts now.
[ENERGETIC MUSIC]
♪
[LIVELY CHATTER]
So you all do this every morning?
Only on the mornings
when we want to eat, sir.
[CHUCKLES] Is dairy farming
your main study?
We get to do a bit of everything.
I'm only just back on farming.
Before, I was building the new
dormitory y'all are here for.
You built it yourself?
Me and the other students.
It's part of our masonry class.
So it was an actual assignment.
Yeah, that's how it tends
to work at the school.
For instance, we plant
the crops in the morning,
and then examine the soil
that afternoon.
- [COW MOOS]
- Oh!
You ain't been around a cow before?
- Not this close.
- [LAUGHS NERVOUSLY]
New Yorkers like to look at animals,
but they don't touch them much.
Would you like me
to teach you to milk her?
Oh, I don't think so.
We're only here to write an article.
Go for it, Miss Scott.
When are you ever gonna get
another chance?
- Certainly not on 61st Street.
- [SCOFFS]
All right. [LAUGHS]
So you have to pull real hard.
Don't worry, you won't hurt her.
[LAUGHS] I did it! [LAUGHS]
You sure did.
Thank you! What's your name?
David Sturt, ma'am.
Well, thank you, David. [CHUCKLES]
[INDISTINCT CHATTER]
You'd never think
a clock had so many pieces.
I would.
Shouldn't you just give it up
and buy a new one?
Oh, you wait.
It may have gone off during dinner,
but now he knows why, don't you, Jack?
Is she right, John?
Are you on the track of the answer?
I think so.
I think the problem is
with the escape wheel,
what they call the escapement.
If the oil is thickening on it,
it could be slowing down the movement.
You're talking like a scientist.
He's talking like a clockmaker,
which is more to the point.
But what can you do about it?
Well, I'm trying
to improve the escape wheel
so it runs without oil.
- Good luck with that, I don't think.
- Not so fast.
Let's just be patient
and see how it turns out.
I'm off, my dear.
Well, where are you off to?
I have a fitting at 11:00,
so I'll see you at luncheon.
Before you go, there's something
I've been meaning to tell you.
I would have said it sooner,
but I didn't want to spoil
- the dinner with the Duke.
- I'm listening.
Mrs. Astor has asked us
to surrender our box at the Academy.
What? Why?
Something about your past career
being too different for the wives
of the other box holders.
But how did she know that
How did she know what?
That I worked at one time
as a sort of companion
to Mrs. Russell.
Mrs. George Russell?
I had no money.
I had to survive somehow.
I thought I told you.
Maybe you did.
But what is wrong
with being a companion anyway?
Many ladies of insufficient
means do exactly the same.
Of course they do.
But why did Mrs. Russell
need a companion
when she had her husband
to keep her company?
Well, that was why I left.
I suppose she must have mentioned it.
But she couldn't have known
Mrs. Astor would react so badly.
No, she can't have expected that.
- [INDISTINCT CHATTER]
- It was my boyhood dream.
To be a Duke?
More that I wanted to be king.
Of any particular country?
I hadn't worked out the details.
- I was eight.
- [BOTH LAUGH]
You do make me laugh, Mr. Van Rhijn.
Oh, how I need that
after a day of contracts
and stock certificates.
My head is spinning.
I hate being a part of it.
I even thought of doing what you said.
Remind me of my sage advice.
To tell him no.
I just have to summon
the courage to do it.
- What if I could help?
- How?
I am a banker.
I might be able to do something.
- Murderer!
- [CROWD YELLING]
Are you facing a strike
in Pittsburgh, Mr. Russell?
Will you keep on ignoring
your workers' demands?
Murderer!
You have blood on your hands,
Mr. Russell!
[TENSE MUSIC]
♪
Why must I be the villain
in every story?
I employ thousands of men.
I have lifted whole towns
out of poverty.
And yet I'm the tyrant
who crushes the faces of the poor.
I'm told they have a date set
for the strike.
Pinkerton's men say the same.
And it'll be soon.
We're ready whenever it comes.
We have defenses around
the mills, across the river.
And we have enough scabs
to keep production running.
Let me be clear, Mr. Russell.
The strikers will do whatever it takes
to keep the scabs out.
The governor has given me his word.
His militia will get the scabs
into the mills.
We hope.
They won't fight against armed men.
They will if they're armed themselves.
Hello. Mrs. Blane is expecting me.
Thank you. I can take
care of Mr. Russell.
I'm sorry I'm late, but I've
got the carriage right here,
and Mrs. Fish won't mind.
You haven't changed.
I'm not going to the dinner.
What is it? Are you ill?
And why are we standing in the doorway?
- Can't I come in?
- I'd rather you didn't.
[SOMBER MUSIC]
Well, then may I have an explanation?
I think we should call a halt.
I don't understand.
We should stop seeing each other.
No damage has been done,
nothing that won't be forgotten
within a week.
But if we continue as we were,
things might get complicated.
Yes. They will get complicated
because we're going to be married
and live together until we die.
Please, Larry, you're making this
more difficult than it needs to be.
I think it needs to be damned difficult.
What prompted it? Tell me!
Was this because of my mother?
Do you want me to take her on?
Because I will.
Don't. It won't be any good.
- Then what can I do?
- Nothing.
There's nothing to be done.
We had a fling.
And we enjoyed it. At least I did.
Now, it's time for us
to move on with our lives.
Here I was thinking
we had a future, but no.
Goodbye, Larry.
Look after yourself,
and please try to be kind
- when you think of me.
- Wait!
♪
[CHOIR SINGING]
[HYMNAL MUSIC]
♪
ALL: For the beauty of the Earth ♪
For the glory of the skies ♪
[LAUGHS] I'm sorry.
- For what?
- For laughing in church.
The Lord likes to see you laugh.
I know I do.
It feels sacrilegious.
I promise you, he won't mind.
Do you know Mr. and Mrs. Robert Duncan?
They sit about three pews
behind you and your sister.
Do you know where all
of your parishioners sit?
Mostly. Yes. [LAUGHS]
What was it you were saying
about the Duncans?
Oh, they offered me their box
for the Academy of Music next Tuesday.
- How generous!
- It is generous.
And it makes me feel
like a real New Yorker.
Mm.
I was wondering
if you would like to come.
Goodness. How kind.
It's to be "Aida."
Have you heard it?
I I know it's very moving.
It's a love story.
Well, of course,
it's a tragic love story.
Mm.
What do you say?
Well, I ought to check with Agnes.
But
To He we raise this our hymn ♪
I'd love to come.
Thank you very much.
Good.
- So I'll collect you at 6:00.
- Mm.
[SOFT MUSIC]
Forgive me.
I have another question to ask you.
- What is it?
- [CHUCKLES]
I was going to ask you after the opera,
but I can't wait.
What are you
Will you marry me, Miss Ada Brook?
♪
- Yes.
- [SIGHS]
Yes, Mr. Luke Forte.
Yes, I will.
♪
Please give my compliments
to Mrs. Bauer.
- I will, ma'am.
- Thank you, Bannister.
♪
[LIGHT MUSIC]
♪
I heard from the Duke.
He says he'll stay with us
when he comes to Newport.
- Really?
- Really.
And you know what it means?
My first event there will be
the talk of the whole town.
We won't have a single refusal
unless people are at death's door.
And even then, they may
take up their beds and walk.
You've never said if you liked him.
To be honest, it doesn't take
much to make a Duke likeable.
But yes, I like him.
He's young, unstuffy,
and more polite than I expected.
And what will Mrs. Winterton
make of all this?
Or don't you care?
Should I care about the feelings
of a former lady's maid who attempted
to seduce my husband?
May I find hope in your use
of the word "attempted"?
It was never her claim that hurt me
but your silence.
Will you forgive me now?
If I do, enjoy it.
There will be no more forgiveness
if you hide any such thing
from me again.
[SOFT MUSIC]
[SIGHS]
♪
I've missed you, my darling.
You can't know how much.
I haven't been anywhere.
Oh, yes you have.
♪
[BRIGHT MUSIC]
♪
- Aurora, my dear. Look at this.
- [GASPS]
We'd better get
our skates on, Mr. Borden,
if we're to host the Duke of Buckingham.
- Oh, my.
- What is it?
Apparently, Mrs. Russell is to entertain
- an English duke at her home in Newport.
- Please.
He is to be the guest
of Mr. and Mrs. George Russell
in Newport. She's giving
a dinner in his honor.
Perhaps, we'll be invited.
First, she has me
thrown out of the Academy.
- And now this?
- My dear, please, don't upset yourself.
I will upset myself.
And I'll upset Mrs. George Russell
if it's the last thing I do.
Enid, there will be other dukes.
I don't want other dukes!
I want this duke!
We found him, and he's mine!
But that witch has stolen him from me!
[SPIRITED ORCHESTRAL MUSIC]