- Everything always happens at once.
- Now, remember I'll be back by six o'clock.
- Never you fear, Mr. Hudson.
- Rose can help Alfred wait to see you.
- Her ladyship hadn't been so particular. Take her some fruit up, so she says.
- Poor old soul.
May not be long for this world.
- Well, I'd better away, then or I'll miss my train.
- Now, mind Alfred, and you too Rose, I want everything just so
- for Miss Elizabeth when she gets here.
- And Lady Kasseltone's invited for tea, and I wouldn't be surprised if
- Mr. James doesn't drop in as well.
- Now, I want everything ship-shape and Bristol fashion.
- Aye, Aye, sir.
- Yes....well, I'd better away, then.
Oh, I hope you get there in time.
- Ah, couldn't it just be one of those wee (taros) most likely, Mrs. Bridges.
- And, Rose, see that the cucumber sandwiches
- are much (less) flavored on top of the cake stand.
- Yes, Mr. Hudson, and I do hope you're mother ain't too poorly.
- Thank you, Rose, and Alfred...
- Yes, Mr. Hudson.
- Eh, careful when you're handing 'round the teacups.
- Lady Kasseltone is a wee bit absent- minded and none too steady with her hands.
[ Emily coughs ] Emily, behave yourself.
- Eh, well I don't like it, but I haven't got any choice.
- Not when her ladyship was so particular.
- Hey, he's forgot his grapes.
- Oh, Mr. Hudson! - Yes
- You forgot your grapes.
- Dear me, thank you, Rose.
[ Door closes ]
She's a good age, old Mrs. Hudson.
Ah, I don't so much need the grapes as hallelujahs.
- So go to heaven and all. Sure...Sure, heaven's waiting for her.
- That's enough of your religious mania.
- Emily, when you die you die, and that's an end of it.
Aw, Mrs. Bridges.
Well, sparkle, girls. We're all alive in this house.
And, there's work to be done.
[ Slap ]
Just because Mr. Hudson's out, that doesn't put you in charge.
- And, Emily, when you've cleared up, start cutting the bread
- for the cook and the family.
- And mind, you're not cutting them for heroes.
- Nice thin slices. - Yes, Mrs. Bridges.
I wonder if we'll notice any difference in Miss Elizabeth
now she's done her schooling and all that.
Oh, I don't think nothing could change Miss Elizabeth
for the worst, anyhow.
Well, she's all right, Miss Elizabeth. Not one of your hoitsy-toitsy ones.
What d'you say, Mrs. B?
Oh, finicky with her food ever since she was a tiny mite.
Aw, you must go to say better than that, Mrs. Bridges.
[ Clock chimes ] I speak as I find.
- Listen, it's gone three o'clock, you get around and up and change, Rose.
- Here, I'll finish that for you.
[ Front door bell rings ]
[ Opens door ]
- Good afternoon, my lady.
- Good afternoon, Alfred. Where's Hudson?
- He had to go out, my lady.
- Indeed. - Mrs. Hudson was indisposed.
- Mrs. Hudson?
- Hudson's mother, my lady. - Oh.
- Her ladyship's in the morning room. Shall I announce you, my lady?
- Naturally, but not in that graveyard voice,
- or you won't be heard across the room.
- Very good, my lady.
[ Opens door ]
- Lady Kasseltone.
- Marjorie. - Aunt Kate.
[ Kiss ] What a pretty dress.
- Now, my dear, you must teach that young footman
- of yours to speak up.
- He announced me as though I were tragic news
- even if I am, which is quite possible,
- the name should nevertheless be heard, and clear,
- so that one is not to, uh, expected to be like
- Lady Kasserel, Kasserussel or Kasselbridge.
- James [ Kiss ]
- You're looking thinner. You should eat more.
- Ha.
- And who is this?
- Oh, may I present my friend, Lieutenant Watson,
- my great aunt, Lady Kasseltone. [ Heel click ]
- How do you do, Lady Kasseltone. James has often spoke of you.
- Kindly, I hope.
- No, not at all. Not unkindly. Ha.
- Mo-Most kindly.
- I say.
Quite.
- Sit down, Billy and you, too, James.
- I do wonder what has happened to Elizabeth.
- She should have been here by now.
- So this is to, uh, welcome Elizabeth home from Germany?
- Yes, Aunt Kate, we thought it would be nice for her.
A tea party for Elizabeth, but no tea and no Elizabeth.
- I have rung for the tea, Aunt Kate.
- The boat train was due in at the Liverpool Street an hour ago.
- Oh, was it? - Umm.
- You were very punctual, Aunt Kate.
Let's hope Elizabeth's train was, too. I'm playing bridge at seven-thirty.
[ Bell ring ] Ah! There she is, thank heavens.
For what?
- Uhh, that Elizabeth has arrived.
- Safely.
[ Front door opens ]
- Hello, Alfred. - Welcome back, Miss Elizabeth.
- I'll help Pearce with the luggage.
- Rose!
- Oh, welcome home, Miss Elizabeth.
- Oh, it's nice to see you back.
- It's nice to be back. But where's mother?
- They're all in the morning room, Miss. - Who?
- Lady Kasseltone, Mr. James and another young gentleman. - Oh, dear.
- Shall I take your hat and coat? They are waiting tea for you.
- Oh, no, I must go upstairs first. - Oh.
- Come with me, Rose. - Yes, Miss.
- I'm done. - You'll go meet all them with me.
Whew! Safe and sound, then.
What d'you mean?
I thought you might be mown down by the new motorcars.
Ha!
Are you ready to meet your maker, Mr. Pearce?
Readier than you are, I daresay, Elijah.
You' better take this luggage up to Miss Elizabeth.
Who d'ya think I am, a common footman?
I have the tea things to see to.
Hudson's out.
Oh, Rose, it's nice to be home.
Yes, it is nice to be home.
We all missed you, Miss Elizabeth.
Oh, I missed you, too, Rose.
I am to maid you.
As Roberts is so busy with her ladyship.
Oh, why?
- Well, it's the London season. [ Knocking ]
- [ Pearce ]: Your trunks, Miss Elizabeth.
- Ah, put it by the bed.
[ Door slams shut ]
Thank you, Pearce.
I'm afraid that was very heavy.
- [ Breathing heavy ] Not too bad, Miss Elizabeth
It's full of books we had to study. You've no idea of how many.
Goethe, Schiller, Heine. Thank you, Rose.
Ohhh. [ Sigh ]
I'm in such a whirl.
London seems so big and bustly after Dresden, and the traffic!
All those smelly motorcars. I suppose I'll get used to it.
Mr. Hudson says you father's thinking of getting a Daimler motorcar.
How fashionable!
How is father, anyway? Is he well?
Oh, yes, Miss.
Good, I'm so looking forward to seeing him.
There's so much I can discuss with him, now.
D'you read much, Rose?
Well, I like a good read, but I don't get much time, Miss.
Well, what do you consider a good read?
Well, Mrs. Humphrey Ward, perhaps.
Mrs. Humphrey Ward!
- I see I must take you in hand, Rose. - Oh, it may not be worth the trouble, Miss.
Now, don't you think we should go downstairs?
'Cause Hudson's gone to see his mother.
And I've got to help Alfred with the tea.
Well, you go on down. Tell Mother I won't be a jiffy.
Miss Elizabeth, it's so nice having you home.
Thank you, Rose. And Rose... I'm glad you're going to look after me.
Thank you, Miss.
[ Door closes ]
[ Sighs ]
[ Outdoor serenade starts ]
[ Shouting ] Here, catch! (You catch, from me.)
[ Windows closes ]
Oh, Ermintrude. Ermintrude.
[ Kiss ]
No, no, no, no, no.
When you become a woman you must put away childish things.
[ Kiss finger ]
- (Love), darling. Welcome home.
- Here's Aunt Kate.
- Oh, sorry, Aunt Kate.
- That's all right, my child. You may kiss me.
- Now, let me look at you.
- No. No, Germany has not done much for you.
- Never mind.
Oh, but it has, Aunt Kate. It has done so much.
- Elizabeth.
James, how lovely.
- May I present my friend, Billy Watson. My sister, Elizabeth.
How do you do, and what do you do?
- I soldier, actually.
Oh, how disappointing. I'd quite made up my mind you were a poet.
- Had you really? I say.
- Sit down, darling, and have your tea.
- And how was the channel crossing?
It was rough, very rough.
But I didn't mind.
I stayed on deck most of the time. It was so exciting.
I trust, Miss Bellamy, you were not indisposed?
Oh, no, no. No, I have an excellent stomach.
- Tea, Aunt Kate?
- Uh, thank you, and I will have another of those
cucumber sandwiches, if there any left.
- There are, Aunt Kate.
- A handsome husband dauphin found them here.
- Don't be so childish, James.
- Thanks.
Uh, how did you find Germany, Miss Bellamy? I believe they have a magnificent army there.
I'm afraid I just don't notice the army, Mr. Watson.
They have some wonderful musicians and philosophers.
- Uh-huh, they only, well, that's not much in our line. Is it James?
- We're very good at tennis though. Do you play tennis, Miss Bellamy?
- I prefer the piano.
Really, oh. Anyway, well that's a strum on the piano in the evening
will be altogether delightful with a spot of chatter, or isn't it?
To chatter through music does not strike me as very delightful, Mr. Watson.
Frau Beck always said that music should be given one's full attention.
The Germans were always a dogmatic people.
If you remember, Marjorie, I suggested Switzerland.
The Swiss are far more accommodating.
The Germans are a little serious. I agree, Aunt Katie, but they are
enormously good people and very learned.
- Goodness and learning are all very well below a certain level of income.
I'm sure Father is both very good and very learned.
Oh, good chaga chata, try to trip up you're old Aunt Kate.
Your father is an exemplary politician and wears his knowledge lightly.
Now, get the child a cup of tea before she slaughters us all with German logic.
- We were talking of your coming-out.
- Oh, yes. Lady Landerndry is giving a ball at the end of the month.
- Your father and I thought it would be an exciting occasion
- for you to make your debut.
- With the dance after the Prime Minister at Carlton Gardens.
- Several important young conservatives will be there.
Splendid, then we can have some good political conversations!
Don't forget, Elizabeth, that too many opinions can prove
indigestible at seventeen.
Perhaps we will see you at Ranelagh next week for the polo.
- I'm afraid we'll be too busy getting Elizabeth her new clothes.
You'll have to do something about her hair.
Why?
- Well, if you can't see that, child, I'm afraid it's going to get up your
business for your mother.
What do you think, James. Am I a fright?
[ Sigh ] Well, you have to, uh, make something of yourself, Elizabeth.
- Will I?
Won't I do it then? What do you think, Mr. Watson?
Uh-huh, Miss Bellamy, I think you're perfect in your natural state. Uh-huh, ha.
No, no, of course I could be wrong.
You do think I'm a fright.
- Oh, Miss Bellamy, you're just a too, too, t...
Far too, Elizabeth, I fear.
- James, tell Elizabeth about your polo match last Saturday.
Oh, yes, yes, it was terrific. The best game of the season.
D-Do you like polo, Miss Bellamy?
No, no, not really.
I think sport is awfully boring.
Uh, uh, well, I...I think I'd better be going.
[ Heel click ] Lady Marjorie thank you for allowing me to call.
[ Heel click ] Lady Kasseltone.
[ Weak hell click ] Miss Bellamy.
- James. - I'll see you out, old chap.
Thank you very much.
Please excuse me, Mother... Aunt Kate...Elizabeth.
- Well, I don't think you made much of a conquest there.
- Should I have done?
- Really, Mother, I know you're just off the train.
- In any case he seemed a very wooden young man.
- A man of wood can be very dependable.
- Your late, great uncle was a man of wood.
- You must learn to listen more and think less.
Yes, Aunt Kate. Sorry, Mother.
- German philosophy will not help you to fill your card at Londonderry House.
- Remember that, my child.
- And be warned.
- Goodness, have they starved you at Frau Beck's?
- On the contrary. They increased my capacity.
How was the old lady, then, Mr. Hudson?
Oh, not too spry, Mrs. Bridges. It's her chest, you know.
Could you do with a nice cup of tea?
- I certainly could, Mrs. Bridges. - Emily.
- Get Mr. Hudson a cup and saucer and make a fresh pot of tea.
Look sharp, now, Emily.
- Yes, Mr. Hudson.
- Everything go off without a hitch, Alfred?
- No hitches on our side, Mr. Hudson.
- And what does that enigmatic remark portend?
- Miss Elizabeth had a few bricks in her hand which she proceeded
- to drop on the drawing room carpet.
- Finicky and fussing I'll be bound.
- Far from it, Mrs. B. She walked through a lovely cake
- as if she'd been shipwrecked for a month.
- That'll be enough disrespect from you, young man.
- Cup of tea, Miss Roberts?
- Well, I wouldn't say no.
- Where's Rose?
- Unpacking for Miss Elizabeth.
Some have greatness thrust upon them.
[ Next: Little rose, little rose, little red rose on the heath. ]
Listen to this, Rose.
Röslein, Röslein, Röslein rot, Röslein auf der Heiden.
- That's you, Rose. Röslein. - Very...Very pretty.
German can be a very beautiful language,
as in songs like this one.
This is by Schubert.
- Words by Goethe. Music by Schubert. - I say.
- Have you heard of Schubert, Rose? - Yes, Miss.
Good!
- Oh, Miss Elizabeth. - Yes, Rose.
- Do you really read all them books?
Hm, hm, well, not always from cover to cover.
We read the passages Frau Beck directed us to read.
I think I shall improve your mind, Rose.
Thank you, Miss Elizabeth.
But not tonight. Tonight I'm all at sea, still.
So strange to be home again.
I think I could go to practice for half an hour on the drawing room piano.
Oh, Miss Elizabeth.
We've got to finish your unpacking and then change you and do your hair for dinner.
No, I feel like practicing.
Oh, dear Rose, YOU finish my unpacking, and don't worry.
I can change and do my hair in a jiffy.
[ Door opens and closes ]
[ Sound of a Chopin waltz from the drawing room ]
[ Music continues ]
[ Door opens ]
Listen...Elizabeth really plays quite nicely.
Yes, yes, I suppose she does.
I..I do she were more...
More what?
Well, more sensible.
You can hardly expect seventeen year old sisters to be sensible.
(Well that better than sex life.) I wish she were more like other girls.
Be patient.
I wish she were more stunning.
I thought she'd stunned us all completely.
Billy was very put out.
- I could see that.
- And so were you. I could see that.
Aren't you dining at home tonight?
No, I promised to dine with Billy in the mess.
You don't think Elizabeth will mind her first night home?
I'm sure she won't, darling.
[ Kiss ]
- I'm very fond of her. - Of course you are.
And take that worried frown off your brow and get along with you.
- Have a good time. - Thanks, Mother.
- And James. - Huh?
- You weren't so clever there yourself when seventeen.
Huh-hu, No, I suppose not.
(Why don't we put Elizabeth to found there.)
[ Waltz plays on ]
(And then our way) to the Black Forest, which is absolutely (devie).
It makes you imagine witches and warlocks and all sorts of brothers Grimmsy.
- Ow! - Well, I'm sorry Miss Lizzie.
but you will keep bobbing about.
No. Wretched, wretched hair.
Let it just hang down or cut off or something.
Like one does for an ordinary mortal.
I don't know what you mean by that. I'm sure every shop girl
is just as particular with her hair.
The difference being that she does it herself.
Oh, a nice mess you'd make of it, I'd be bound.
Rose, don't be naughty.
I did it myself almost every night in Dresden.
Um, we needed no ghost from the grave to tell us that.
What a funny expression. Where did you hear it?
I don't know, Miss. Where that one hears expression and figures pop into you head.
Yeah, but I think that is a quotation.
Rose, get me my Bartlett's edition of quotations. It's by the bed.
- Not now, Miss Lizzie, I've got to do your hair for dinner. - Oh, drat dinner!
Drat hair! Drat, drat, drat!
- Miss Elizabeth. I must do you hair! - Oh, for heavens sake, Rose,
leave me alone!
Oh, Miss Lizzie, what a temper.
When we were such good friends.
And so we are, Rose dear, if only you wouldn't fuss so.
I'm sure you wouldn't wish to go to Lady Landerndery's beastly ball
looking like a stuffed peacock.
I'm sure I'd be lucky enough to get half the chance, Miss.
Nonsense.
I mean to do something with my life.
- [ Knocking ] May I come in? - Father!
- How's my (daughter)! - Daddy!
Ha, ha, ha. Wild as ever. Uh, what are we gonna to make of her, Rose?
- A flaming beauty? Eh? - It won't be for want of trying.
Oh, Father, it's so good to see you! [ Kiss, kiss, kiss, kiss ]
Ah, you too, my dear. Now Rose wants to get on with your hair.
You look as though you've been dragged through a hed...hedge backwards.
All right, but stay with me, please.
But, of course.
Well. [ Sigh ]
And how was the good Frau Beck?
Oh, we got on very well.
She sends you her Recht herzlichen grüß.
Danke schön, fräulein.
So, work done, now it's play for a time, eh?
Oh, not too much play, I hope, Father.
Oh, nonsense, (lanolin) will be good for you.
Even fun, I should think, after provincial Germany.
Besides, I want my girl to shine in society.
I won't be a junior minister forever, you know.
In fact, if Rose weren't here, I might tell you there was hope of a cabinet post.
Father, how wonderful!
Oh, Rose is as secret as the tomb.
But, it's not settled, of course.
A great deal depends on one's family in these matters.
No, Father, you're too important.
Oh, no. No politician ever gets to the top on his own, Elizabeth.
He has a brilliant wife behind him, or even...an enchanting daughter.
[ Sigh ] I'm not very good enchanting.
- You just wait until your mother and Rose
- have finish teaching a few spells. [ Kiss ]
- It won't come easily to you, you know.
You're not your father's daughter for nothing.
I've suffered greater agonies in the drawing room
than ever in a House of Commons debate.
- Really? - Oh, yes.
- But, what I can stomach, you can. Of that I feel sure.
- For my sake, (then).
[ Kiss ] Well, I must go and change, or I shall be late.
- I'm dining at home tonight, with the pride of the Bellamys.
- Oh. - Huh, huh, huh.
But, that's it, Rose.
I am going to enchant.
A scheme of pink chiffon, gold-spangled net and fine appliqué lace.
A (keine) of line is imparted to the figure by the lace
carried down the center-front flanked by clusters of
pink chenille fringe sparkling with diamonte.
- It sounds like a fireworks display at the Crystal Palace...
Be serious and take an interest.
What d'you think of this hair style, my lady?
Oh, that's nice, Rose, that's very nice.
You have excellent taste.
(When I give enough what about this one?)
Elizabeth, what are you doing?
Darling, do try and put your mind to the business on hand.
Madame Dubois wants the material for your ball dress in a week
and we haven't even chosen a (style) yet.
But, don't you think that's pretty?
Yes, Mother.
What are you grinning for?
I want a tip, don't I?
Saucy.
[ Door closes ]
Now that'll be the material for Miss Elizabeth's ball gown.
Oh, say, can I see it?
Now, keep your wet hands off it.
- Alfred! - What is it?
Take this parcel upstairs.
Will you get on with the scrubbing?
They shall have linen bonnets on their heads.
They shall not gird themselves with anything that causes sweat.
- Where's Rose? - Upstairs with zee dressmakeur.
She hasn't changed the linen in the master's bedroom.
The whole place is (tapsel-tiery).
[ French dressmaker and Lady Marjorie discuss
Miss Elizabeth's measurements in French and English ]
- Ninety-two centimeters.
[ Knock on door ]
- Package from Soreses for your ladyship.
[ Door closes ]
- Thank you, Rose. Bring the scissors here.
- Et maintenant, Madame Dubois.
- Regardez.
- Oh! - Like it?
- Oh! Oh, c'est ravissant! - Isn't it?
- Et qu'en suplesse. Oh, c'est magnifique!
- C'est royale.
Where's Rose again?
Where d'you think?
The drawing room grate has not been attended to.
You can't expect a lady's maid to get down on her hands and knees to a grate.
Lady's maid now approaches a head house parlor maid, Emily.
- Yes, Mr. Hudson.
Wash you hands and face and go and find Rose for me.
- What, me go upstairs?
Yes, and look sharp about it.
- Oh, yes, Mr. Hudson.
Are you engaged this dance, Miss Bellamy?
Uh, no.
No, no, consult your program.
- She should pretend to be shortsighted.
- Well, whatever for? - [ Elizabeth laughing ]
- That's considered attractive. - [ Elizabeth laughing ]
Says so, in my own chart.
[ Elizabeth and James laughing heartily ]
Now, once again.
Uh, ho, ho, uh, ho, you people go up with the line?
- Huh? - [Elizabeth laughs ] - Huh? - [Elizabeth laughs ]
[ Indistinct ] That I have the pleasure?
You may take the risk, Lord Chumbly.
Ah, delightful. Now come on, Rose, the music.
- Ah, right, now, come on. Here, right foot. - Tra la la
boom di ay, tra la la boom di ay,
tra la la boom di ay.
tra la la boom di ay, tra la la boom di ay,
- tra la la boom di ay,
- tra la la boom di ay.
- [ Emily ] Rose! [ Laughter ]
- Excuse me, Miss Elizabeth, but Mr. Hudson wants Rose,
- And he told me to come up and get her.
- [ Emily cries ] And even the... - I beg your pardon, Miss Elizabeth.
Tra la la boom di ay, tra la la boom di ay.
tra la la boom di ay, tra la la [ Laughing ]
[ Knock on door ]
Come in. [ Door opens ]
You sent for me, Mr. Hudson?
Yes.
It is half past eleven, a-girl, and the drawing room grate is not done yet.
I will not have you neglecting the work you're paid to do.
I'm sorry, Mr. Hudson. It won't occur again.
Where have you been since breakfast?
I've been helping Mr. James teach Miss Elizabeth to galott.
Good grief, did she not learn to galott in Germany.
What did she go there for?
It seems it was all book learning.
Book learning is no use to a young lady.
And another thing, Rose. I agreed with her ladyship
that you should attend to Miss Elizabeth for a bit,
seeing that Miss Roberts has got her work cut out,
but don't abuse your privileges, mind.
No, Mr. Hudson.
It seems that Miss Elizabeth's coming out is worse than a
censure debate in parliament for setting the whole house on edge.
Yes, Mr. Hudson.
That'll be all, Rose.
And get that grate done immediately.
Yes, Mr. Hudson.
[ Humming ] Tra la la boom di ay,
tra la la boom di ay, tra la la da ti da.
Walk toward me.
Turn.
Walk away.
Turn.
Smile.
Extend your hand.
Two fingers for acquaintance. Three for a family friend.
And now sit.
Very good. You really are improving.
And now what do you talk about?
The weather. It's always safe to begin with the weather.
I follow my partners lead.
If he's interested in racing, I'm interested in racing.
If cards, cards. No personalities no politics.
Not even to politicians?
Especially not to politicians. They want to enjoy themselves.
I don't suppose any young man will come near my anyway.
That we'll have to see.
But if you are a wallflower, what do you do?
I talk, animatedly, to my chaperone.
And if a young man turns up, I keep talking and smiling.
And don't forget. Let him think he's interrupted a scintillating conversation.
You'd scarcely noticed you were not engaged for the dance.
You'd been unaware of the music.
And I accept him,...ha,... with delighted surprise.
Oh, Mother. What is the difference between this and being in action?
Don't try to be shocking, and do sit properly.
- My dear! - We're in here, dear.
- Wonderful news about the Landerndery's ball.
The king and queen are going to be there.
I've spoken to Frances Knowles, and Elizabeth is to be presented.
Richard, how splendid.
Frances suggests that Aunt Kate present her.
Du lieber Gott! [ Good heavens! ]
Haven't you finished yet, Rose? I want to see it.
There. Go and have a look.
[ Gasp ] Oh, what have you done?
Is that really me?
[ Laughing happily ]
What on earth are you doing, Rose?
Ah, practicing.
Well, I'll not have the servant's hall turned into a hair dressing salon.
[ Emily giggling ]
Come down at once, Emily.
- Take that bird's nest off your head. - Ha, ha, ha.
[ Pearce ] - You're sure lookin' Cinderella.
[ Emily ] Lead me to my coach, fella.
[ Laughing ]
You get on with the saucepan, or you might be finished before midnight.
Poor little old cinders. Here, what's it all been made of then, Rose?
I'm practicing Miss Lizzie's hairstyle for the Londonderry Ball.
Come over here. Could you do one for me,
so I could wear up the feathers on the secondary heights. [ Laughing ]
Why aren't you waiting outside with the carriage?
They ain't ready yet, that's why.
Here, you ought to practice on Mrs. Bridges. [ Laughter ]
Lovely head of hair, that. [ Laughter ]
Plenty of scope. Something to get your hands into.
Ha, ha, ha, ha.
All right. All right.
Keep your hair on. [ Laughter ]
Ha, ha, ha, ha, ha.
You'd better get on with the mending, Rose.
You're not a lady's maid all the time, you know.
Yes, Mrs. Bridges.
[ Bell rings ]
Well, now, that's me. We're off. [ Pearce sighs ]
Will you go tonight, then?
Naw, one of them working class clothes men they're all closing Sloan's Square.
- So long, gorgeous. - Oh, you....- Ha, ha, ha.
[ Discussion of Elizabeth's ball gown in French and English ]
Rose, put those against the skirt.
[ Knock ] May I come in the work shop? - Sweat shop!
Just a moment, Richard.
Rose, quickly, Miss Elizabeth's tiara.
Thank you.
There. Lovely.
All right, Richard, you can come in now.
Well, [ Door closes ] what do you think?
Oh, yes, yes. Very nice, indeed.
[ French ]
So tight!
It's all very well, but don't expect me to breathe.
Oh, of course not. You'll be carried into the ball,
sat down on the wallflower's bench, and that'll be the end of you.
It's no joking matter.
The best I can manage at the moment is a stiff-legged hop.
Well, the hop is all the rage this season.
[ Humming and dancing ]
Wha-What about the hair?
Rose is in charge of that.
Rose, show Mr. Bellamy the style we've chosen.
Enchanting.
I see I'm going to be a very proud father.
Well, don't look so gloomy, lad. Ha.
It's not the Second Coming, you know, only the Londonderry's Ball.
You won't look so smug on the Day of Judgement.
Is that right, cocker? Heh, heh, heh.
Not when you smell the fires of Hell burning.
Oh, I donno, the company there might be a darn sight more larky
than the other place.
I shouldn't like to carry your weight of sin.
You don't like carrying nothing.
- Now then, you two, look sharp. We'll be leaving any minute.
Horses ready, Mr. Pearce?
Groomed and shining like coal.
[ Albert whinnies like a horse ]
And we're ready to meet our maker, if need be.
Well, that won't be necessary for the moment. Carry on Mr. Pearce.
[ Alfred trips Pearce ] Alfred!
You may call the rest of the staff.
Are you sure you won't take a glass of sherry, Aunt Kate?
Marge and Elizabeth may be a few minutes, yet.
No, thank you, Richard.
Since I'm to be seated on the Prime Minister's left,
then I prefer to keep a clear head.
Huh, maybe he'll fire an unexpected question at you.
- Such as your views on the Irish question.
Such as why my cousin Charles refuses to serve in his cabinet.
I can hardly inform him, between mouthfuls of roast duck,
that cousin Charles thinks he's the most ineffectual
prime minister we've had since Lord North.
- So how will you answer?
Oh, I shall become very feminine, change the subject to the
- Italian Gardens at Southwald. - Huh, huh.
- Is he going on with the ball? - Who?
- Mr. Balfour? - I doubt it.
He doesn't care much for social functions.
James, you must dance with your sister.
- Oh, naturally. - And your Aunt Kate.
Now, that'll be a pleasure.
Fiddlesticks.
- Are they ready, Hudson. - Shortly, sir, the carriages are at the door.
[ Ahem ] I have taken the liberty of assembling the staff, sir.
To see Miss Elizabeth, sir.
Excellent idea.
Well, come along, then.
We'll go out and meet them in the hall.
[ Door opens ]
Good evening, Mrs. Bridges.
Good evening, sir.
They're just coming, and then it's beautiful!
Why, I..I do beg your pardon, sir.
I'm sorry to have kept you waiting.
Oh, mademoiselle. Mademoiselle.
[ Ohhs and ahhs while repairs are made ]
[ Indistinct ] Disaster, isn't it?
Very, very fine, dear. You look charming.
Thank you, Aunt Kate.
How shall we go?
I shall go in Aunt Kate's carriage with, uh, James,
and you and Elizabeth can go with (Kips).
That'll give you more room.
Come along, Kate.
Yes, we've got quite a way you know to Covent Gardens.
[ Party's cheerful chatter ]
[ Staff's cheerful chatter ]
Well, I think you did a very good piece of work there, Rose.
Thank you, Mr. Hudson.
I feel this calls for a small célébration, eh, Madame?
Oh, Monsieur Hudson.
Ah, Seeing that we have the honor of a guest from France,
I dare say that we can lay our hands on a wee bottle of Château Lafite 91.
[ More cheerful chatter ]
Come along, then, let us all repair downstairs.
[ More cheerful chatter ]
I...I...Shall we sit down here?
Why not?
Uh...could I get a...(waterite)?
No, thank you.
Uh, uh, I believe this is our waltz.
I'm still giddy from the polka. Will you excuse me, Mr. Watson?
Gladly.
Uh...i...i...if you insist.
I do insist.
Oh, please feel free to find another partner if you want to dance.
I...i...if you're sure?
Quite sure.
I say, it's awfully decent of you.
Elizabeth?
What on earth? Where's Billy?
Waltzing.
How about you?
Not waltzing.
Ah, but I've engaged you for the first three dances.
I relinquish the pleasure.
Ah, uh, oh, Elizabeth.
Why can't you take an interest in these?
Instead of...sulking out here on your own.
I prefer it out here.
But you won't get another partner unless you show yourself.
I don't want another partner, thank you.
And I refuse to sit among those (Rafendell) dowagers
listening to their vicious gossip.
If you could only see your face. It's not a funeral, you know.
Why can't you smile and be happy?
Because I'm not happy, James. I'm hating every minute of it.
- I don't think I can stand anymore. - You're not even trying.
If I have to stay here much longer I shall screek out loud.
Why can't you be more like other girls, eh?
Ha. There you are.
I do hope I haven't kept you waiting.
You're like a flash of lightning.
Right now, I present my sister Elizabeth, Miss Cynthia Cartwright.
- How do you do? - How do you do?
Isn't it a wonderful ball and such a (devie) band.
- Well, it's a matter of... - Excuse us. Come on.
There you are Elizabeth. Have you seen your father and Aunt Kate?
- No. - This is (very) what you needed, isn't it?
Yes, it is.
- Mother, may I present Miss Cynthia Cartwright.
- How do you do?
- Good evening Lady Marjorie.
- I believe we met at Cannes last year.
- That was [ Indistinct ].
- Oh, yes, of course, I remember. You were wearing a very pretty hat.
- [ Indistinct conversations ]
- There you are. I was beginning to worry.
- Don't fuss, Marjorie. The whole party has just arrived.
- Where's Elizabeth?
Oh, she was sitting there a moment ago.
Bringing in the queen.
They're going to start in. Now, we don't want to be late.
James. Where's Elizabeth?
She was here a moment ago.
She's disappeared.
The presentation's about to start. Go and find her.
Where on earth could she have gone to?
Oh, she probably had an attack of nerves and has gone to the cloak room.
I'll go and see.
Thank you.
Tell her she must hurry.
[ Announcement ]
What could she be doing. Really it's too bad of her.
Well, if she doesn't come in a moment, I'll have to go in without her.
[ Announcement ]
She's going to be late. The silly girl.
She was sitting on that sofa a moment ago.
She must have slipped away deliberately.
I'll never forgive her.
[ Announcement ]
- She's not in the cloakroom, and I've looked everywhere.
Richard, what shall we do?
- The footman downstairs shed... said she left a few minutes ago.
She had her cloak on, and ran out through the front door.
- She left the ball by herself? - She can't have.
[ Announcement ]
I'll have to go in and explain. She must have taken leave of her senses.
[ Announcement ]
Oh, Richard, how could she let us down like this?
How could she?
[ Clock chimes; carriage arrives ]
That's them.
Come on, wake up a-girl, they're back. Your young lady will want undressing
and put into bed.
Oh, oh Lord.
If the life of a lady's maid isn't (to your shillies).
I know. I know.
[ Door closes ]
Hudson, where's Miss Elizabeth?
Sir?
She must have come home?
I don't think so, my lady. I, I at least I didn't hear her.
Did you, Miss Roberts?
Oh, no, no, Mr. Hudson.
- Well, Rose. - Yes, sir. - Go and find Miss Elizabeth.
- Oh, but... - Do as you are told.
Go and look in her room.
Brandy in the morning room, Hudson.
Very good, sir.
Everything is all right, I trust?
We're not sure, Hudson. Fetch the brandy.
Yes, sir.
Proper do, isn't it Mr. Hudson?
It is neither proper nor a do, Mrs. Roberts.
[ Knock on door ]
Miss Elizabeth.
[ Knock ]
Miss Lizzie.
[ Knocks and opens door ]
Miss Elizabeth.
Well.
She's not in her room, sir.
I see.
That will do, Hudson. I think we'd better go to bed.
Very good, sir.
Rose can wait up for Miss Elizabeth.
Yes, sir.
After all you've done for her. To behave like this.
Never mind that, now. Where is she?
An innocent 17 year old girl loose in the streets of London.
I think we ought to notify the police.
Oh no, James. Suppose the newspapers got hold of it.
What can she be thinking of?
Has it occurred to you that something may have happened to her?
Nonsense, she's more than capable of taking care of herself.
No, she's just done this to annoy us.
Elizabeth is not like that.
No? What about her behavior at dinner?
I know, I know.
Interrupting Hugh Cecil and quoting yards from some
obscure German philosopher.
I don't think he minded.
He was very startled. I can assure you of that.
Oh, it was a pretty awful showing you must admit.
Well, talking won't help. I think you two better go to bed.
I'll wait up for her.
If she's not here by daylight, I'll telephone the police.
Come along James. I'm exhausted.
Good night, Richard.
It was to have been such a happy evening for all of us.
Elizabeth, it seems, had other ideas.
[ Sigh ]
Is there anything I can do, Father?
No, thank you, James.
You better go to bed.
Goodnight.
[ Clock chimes two o'clock ]
[ Clock chimes ] [ Knock on door ]
[ Loud knocking ]
[ Clock chimes; Rose unlocks door ]
Miss Elizabeth.
(Tell me to sit up), for goodness sake.
(Twenty-one after two.) [ Door closes ]
You father's half out of his mind!
Where have you been?
I ran away from the ball.
Oh, Rose, it was awful!
What d'ya mean, you, you ran away?
'Twas sickening. Absolutely sickening!
All those ridiculous stuffed shirts. Those repulsive flirting females.
The great yawning boredom of their chatter.
What do you think of the ball? What do you think of the band?
What DO you think of the weather?
And did you SEE the king's filly race at Newmarket?
Oh, God, it was more than I could stand.
So I...ran away through the front door.
You ran away?
Oh, the SHAME of it all.
Shame indeed.
No, not the running away, silly.
The shame of all that waste and extravagance
when outside ther...there's so much poverty and hardship.
Where've you been all this time?
I've been walking through the streets.
How people stared.
Police constable: "Are you all right, Miss?"
"Oh, yes, officer. Don't bother about me."
"Look after the hungry, the weak, the oppressed."
"I'm from a good home. Goodnight, officer."
Goodnight London.
Oh, I'm exhausted.
Your father's waiting up for you.
Oh, no, I can't face him, now.
Coward.
What did you say, Rose?
Coward!
- I should slap your face! - I'll slap yours!
Rose! Don't Rose me.
You stand around in your finery, looking a proper mess and all.
Everything we've all done for you turned to ridicule. Don't Rose me!
Oh, you don't understand what you're talking about.
No, I'm ignorant, no doubt. I didn't go to Germany.
All I know is, your father and mother are worried out of their minds
and you sit here complaining 'cause you was invited to the
grandest ball of the season.
The season. What season?
All seasons are alike to the poor and hungry.
What do you care about poor people?
You only care about yourself.
You ran away. You're a coward, and you'll break you father's heart.
Hold your tongue, Rose!
Father will understand.
Of course he will. 'Cause he loved you.
He may even forgive you, in time.
Though your mother never will, and I never will!
You?
What on earth has it got to do with you?
You mind your place.
I'll mind mine when you mind yours.
Rose!
Don't keep saying Rose in that hoity-toity way.
I know what my place is.
I put sticks through the grates, light the fires, make the tea,
draw the bath, serve the breakfast, make the beds, change the linen,
answer all the bells.
I know what my place is, all right. Do you know yours?
I know it's not my place to argue with you.
Oh, you don't like a few whole truths.
You're a spoiled brat.
When you don't like something, you run away from it.
All full of grand reasons and love of the poor.
But when a house maid tells you what she thinks
of you soon put her in her place back in...
Rose, it isn't true!
Then prove it.
Go and apologize to your father. He's waiting upstairs.
No, I can't.
I won't.
There you are...coward.
Will you stop saying that, Rose. You make me so angry.
- Good. So am I. - All right.
Just give me one reason, one good reason
why I should conform to all this silliness
when I hate it so.
Oh, I'll give you a reason. And you know it as well as I do.
- Your father... - All right, I did my best for his sake.
I sat through dinner trying to be intelligent
but nobody wanted to listen.
'Course they didn't want to listen to you.
You're only seventeen. You ain't got nothing to say yet.
I've got plenty to say.
Then you'd best keep it to yourself.
I won't be able to keep my hands off you much longer.
What a maid.
You listen, Rose! Ow, it's hurting. I'll tell.
I'll bet you would and all.
- [ Lizze whines ] - Now, sit down and listen to me.
I do my work as best I can, 'cause one day I mean to be
a proper lady's maid to a proper lady.
Now, Mr. Hudson runs this house like a clockwork machine.
And Mrs. Bridges may be an old cow, but she cooks her dream and
I knows it's a pleasure to put on the table.
We're the bottom of the ladder, see.
Were the...the will to the cart. And we're content it should be so
'cause the master's a proper gentlemen, what we really like and respect
and does his work right in the houses of parliament,
and my lady's a beauty and very gentile.
And we feel that...we...this whole house is a part a London society.
London society. The parrot house of the zoological gardens.
London society I said, and London society I meant.
Well, that's the hub of the empire, isn't it?
The empire on which the sun will never set.
[ Sigh ] If you can't feel the glow of that like I can, I'm sorry for you.
I don't suppose you've ever been up Piccadilly on a Saturday night
on top of an omnibus.
Oh, uh, that's when you feel its great heart thumping.
That's when you're proud to be part of it.
I know my place all right.
I'm proud of my place.
As long as you're all of you, know yours and keep to it.
[ Sigh ] How would it be if I was to go singing and dancing
in the drawing room, or sliding down the banisters?
And (some) of us do step out the line.
If you're not a proper lady, then I don't want to be your lady's maid.
That's all I've got to say.
[ Sniff ] Now you can tell on me, [ Sniff ] and have me turned out.
- [ Sobs ] - I wish you would slide down the banisters.
Oh, Rose.
I love you very much.
And I am sorry if I was rude to you.
I don't blame you for giving me a piece of your mind, but
I've got a mind, too, you know.
I know what I've done is dreadful for Father.
I know I've got to eat humble pie for the time being, but
I'm not going to be cowed, Rose.
There are ideas stirring in this great city.
Oh, I...I don't understand everything, I
I'm uncertain and muddled sometimes.
But, if only half of what I read is true, then London society
may be heading for a nasty surprise.
What, then they're wicked books and ought to be burned.
No, Rose, they're good and difficult books.
And they're written by good and serious men.
[ Gasp ] I told you I don't understand everything, but
I mean to one day.
Well, you are cleverer than me.
No, Rose, I'm not cleverer than you.
I'm not worse or better either.
I love you very much.
More like a sister than servant.
Oh, then, that's not right, and I've overstepped my place.
Oh, damn your place!
Oh, Miss Elizabeth.
And now, just for your sake, I'm going to be brave
and face up to Father.
[ Sigh ]
Now, give me a kiss, and say we're friends again.
[ Sigh ] [ Kiss ] [ Hug and comfort ]
- Lead me to the slaughter. - [ Sigh ] Oh.
Where is he?
In the morning room.
Come with me, Rose.
Very good, Miss Elizabeth.
[ Sigh ]
We should knock.
Good luck.
- And remember, he loves you. - [ Sigh ]
[ Door opens ]
Miss Elizabeth, sir.
Eliza.
[ Kiss and hug ]
[ Door closes and sighs ]
[ Sighs ]