Nette! Nette!
Here you are! I've looked for you all over the house.
You're dreaming, Nette.
We're working ourselves half to death with the baking.
- You'll have to come. We need you. - If you really need me, then ...
No, Marie! They're overdone! They have to be light yellow.
Take them out when they're yellow like newly hatched chickens.
Accuracy is the key. Especially when making cookies.
How much cardamom did you say?
- Was it two pods? - Yes, Kirsten. At least two.
Everyone loves the taste of cardamom.
- Ruth! - What is it, Mother?
You'll have to help me. Aunt Blanca has sent us a letter.
- She'll be coming for Christmas. - No!
Yes. Auntie says she's coming to spend Christmas with us.
- What are we going to do? - Who's going to tell Granddad?
- That'll be the worst. - Yes, he'll be furious!
- Couldn't you ..? - No, you'll have to do it yourself.
I dare not. I really don't.
Then Father will have to do it. It's his sister, so it's his duty.
Come in!
Are you doing me this honour? What is it?
What it is ...
You know that Granddad can't stand Aunt Blanca.
Mother has just had a letter from her.
Would you believe it? She's coming for Christmas.
A pretty kettle of fish, isn't it? Granddad furious.
The whole house turned upside down and Christmas ruined.
What do you want me to do? If Auntie said she's coming, then she is.
She has a lot of good sides, too. We'll have to bear with her.
Take the rough with the smooth.
Yes, Father. That's right. But that's not what we meant.
Don't you understand ...
Who's going to tell Granddad? You'll have to do that.
Oh, dear! I forgot to look at the date.
The letter is two days late. She could be here any minute.
Please tell Granddad, so Auntie won't take him by surprise.
Granddad will be furious when he hears Auntie is coming.
Yes, yes. If it gets too bad you should know ...
We'll have to prepare the guest room. Please get Marianne at once.
We were right in the middle of baking.
- The colonel's cookies. - Never mind Granddad's cookies.
No, miss. There hasn't been a single Christmas here -
- without the colonel having his cookies.
And it won't happen as long as I'm here.
What are you saying, Marianne? You must help us.
Otherwise, the old dragon will eat us all alive.
Just because of some dry cookies for Granddad.
They have eggs and cream in them!
Can't the cookies wait till tomorrow? We'll take the blame.
Is it true that Auntie Bag is coming?
- What are you calling her? - Haven't you heard that?
She always says she'll talk right out of the bag.
That's why Granddad calls her Auntie Bag. I'll help you.
No, go down and greet Auntie. She could be here any minute.
4.30 pm and no coffee!
- Marianne! - Oh, God! That was the colonel.
Coffee and cookies. I told you, madam. What am I going to say?
Well ... there she is.
Dare I ask if she could spare me some of her time?
Or is it very precious?
But, Colonel ... The Colonel must really ...
Colonel me here and Colonel me there!
She doesn't mind letting the house guest sit up here hour after hour.
She doesn't realise that the guest may not be very comfortable.
That he is cold, because the fire is out!
Maybe she thinks that is quite all right.
No? May the aforementioned guest ask if her memory is lacking?
She seems to have forgotten the coffee today.
It is past 4.30. Where is the coffee and the little brown things?
The brown cookies, damn it? I know that she's baking today.
I haven't had time, Colonel! We are expecting visitors.
Visitors? No one has told me about that.
- Madam is expecting a lady. - What lady?
- The sister of the scrivener. - Are you sure?
What was the lady called? Didn't she have a name?
Wasn't she called Sofie or Rosamynte or the like?
Answer me now!
I heard that she was called Blanca.
Auntie Bag! I should have known Auntie Bag was coming.
How could it be Christmas otherwise?
Go and pack all my things. Lock, stock and barrel!
But she had better not touch the pistols!
And go and tell them to get a carriage ready right away!
Dear Marianne. Don't take it so much to heart.
- He doesn't really mean it. - Yes, he does, madam!
He was so furious. He squeezed my arm!
And now he is leaving!
Just for the sake of those cookies!
Yes, we heard. That was nasty of Granddad.
- I feel like taking him to task. - Shall I pack his things?
No, we shall have to take care of it somehow. We have to.
Lay off that whip!
Haven't I told him several times that I can't stand the cracking?
- You won't get a tip! - I wasn't expecting one.
Shut up!
I'm sure it's Auntie Bag! What are we going to do?
Mother and Ruth haven't finished the room yet.
And then Granddad!
Would he hurry up! Or is he going to stand outside all morning?
No one to say hello? What a reception!
- Don't you recognise me? - It's hard. You're so wrapped up.
- It's Auntie, isn't it? - Of course! Who else would it be?
Here you are, Cheeky Kirsten. Take this!
And you! Is it Ruth or Antoinette?
- I haven't seen you for a while. - I am Antoinette.
I thought so. What kind of hairstyle is that?
It's about time you changed your hairstyle, child!
- You look like a Zulu Kaffir! - She does no such thing!
What? No cheekiness, please.
How you have grown, Antoinette! You'll soon be a grown-up lady.
Help me out of my clothes. Be quick! Well, what about it?
That oaf out there! Bring in the rest of the things.
What's taking him so long?
- Is that all you have, Auntie? - Shut up, Cheeky Kirsten!
- May I help Auntie up to her room? - There is no hurry.
I'll say when.
What's that rattle? Who's making all that storming and raging?
It's nothing. You must be tired after the journey. Don't you want to rest?
"Nothing," she says? Does she mean to say that I'm stone-deaf?
I'm a guest here. I demand to be treated as such.
I will not tolerate the smallest slight from this Spanish fly.
This Auntie Bag, or whatever her name is!
- Well, well. Speak of the devil ... - Yes, it is me, Hans.
You are quite right. Thank you so much for the kind reception.
It does credit to you all in this house.
You're the same well-mannered gentleman as always, I can hear.
But let me tell you that I'm not Auntie Bag.
Neither to you or anyone else in this house! I am simply Blanca Bals.
And as regards your well-chosen style of address, -
- allow me to return it. Old grouch!
I see, my gracious. I see.
There went the cork! At last.
- What was it, Granddad? - The cork, my child!
The devilish cork that has been holding back my good mood.
Forgive me, my gracious. I am delighted with the great honour -
- which has befallen me, spending Christmas in your charming company.
Don't put it on. And above all, don't overexert yourself.
You might have a heart attack!
Let's go and say hello to my brother and Ruth -
- and your mother who is so nobly holding back.
Granddad, be careful!
- How amusing it is! - What's so amusing?
- That Auntie Bag has arrived. - I don't find it amusing at all.
Sweet Nette ... Put away the book and say something about Auntie.
- What shall I say? - That you hate her and detest her.
- She called you a Zulu Kaffir. - She didn't mean it literally.
"Zulu Kaffir." What gibberish!
- She's probably been pretty once. - Her? I find that hard to believe.
Amazing that she and father are siblings.
Go to bed now, Kirsten. We have to get up early.
Sweet, little Nette. You should have objected to Auntie straight away.
Told her that you're not a child any longer.
- But you were there! - Yes, but I'm not a grown-up yet.
Not until my confirmation, when I start wearing long skirts.
It's terrible being a child. I'd like to show you all.
Let her try! Auntie Bag is intolerant!
Be careful, Kirsten, or you'll get whipped.
And for God's sake, don't call her Auntie Bag!
Keep in mind that we might be inheriting all her money.
She'll live to be a hundred, and she'd never let us have it.
- Hurry up! I want the lights off. - Oh, really?
It's lovely getting into bed. Goodnight, then. Sleep tight.
Goodnight.
Gerade sitzen, Kinder!
What now? Can't she mind her table manners?
It's past 9 o'clock. Mademoiselle de Polignac is starting school.
I wasn't asking you, swankpot! I was talking to the mademoiselle.
I am sure she can answer herself.
So mademoiselle is starting school? In that case she may be excused.
Up you go, children! Can't you see that mademoiselle is waiting?
I should like to listen in on mademoiselle's teaching.
- What is your first lesson, child? - Norway's history, Magnus the Good.
- And the second? - Bible history, Samson and Delilah.
It seems to me to be the wrong order. Start the day with Bible history.
That would give them a firm and safe foundation.
Well, I may be up in half an hour or so.
What kind of person is this mademoiselle really?
- She is the children's governess. - Yes, yes, you've already told me.
But who is she? How did she get here? Her sort does not grow on trees.
It happened very naturally. We advertised for a nice governess, -
- and mademoiselle was highly recommended.
- Really? - We're all very pleased with her.
The children practically adore her. She is so nice and helpful.
She is actually French, but came here as a child.
- Where is Rakel tonight? - She is with the dean's wife.
It is an Evangelical meeting. She should be here soon.
They knit socks for the poor black heathens, so they don't freeze.
You shouldn't taunt the heathens, Hans Thue.
No, you may be right, dear virgin Blanca.
I am grateful that you don't call me black.
Not on the outside, no. We can't see the inside, of course.
Be happy about that.
Otherwise you might discover how I feel about you.
Thank you, that doesn't interest me!
Kirsten, come over and hold the yarn for me.
With pleasure, Auntie.
- What are you knitting? - A scarf, as you can see.
Is it for the Zulu Kaffirs?
Yes, aren't you fond of the Zulu Kaffirs?
- What do you mean by that? - You called Nette a Zulu Kaffir.
You are rather pert, Cheeky Kirsten!
- She resembles someone else I know. - Spare me your cheekiness!
- Are you leaving, Nicolai? - Yes, I'd like to note this down.
Maybe you didn't hear your own sister being harassed in your house?
No, I was so absorbed in the newspaper.
It's just Auntie Bag and Old Grouch exchanging declarations of love.
Well, as long as you don't mean any harm ...
Nicolai is a coward. He always shies away from unpleasantness.
He is not a coward at all. "Diplomatic" is a better word for it.
- Bravo, Nette! - Hold the yarn properly!
That's mother. I'll run out and greet her.
What a lot of coughing! Is your throat sore, by any chance?
Because then you'd better go upstairs and lie down -
- and get Marianne to bring you a cup of hot elder tea.
Elder tea? Go to bed?
Yes. You look surprised, my friend.
But it is a very proper remedy.
What impudence!
Good evening!
- What a cosy atmosphere! - Good evening, mother.
- We are having a nice cosy evening. - Yes, very cosy!
- How have you been, mother? - It's always nice at the dean's.
We're probably going to have a few more guests for Christmas.
- Are we? - More guests?
Yes, the dean's wife asked if we could put up a few young gentlemen.
- I hope you said no! - I couldn't have done that.
I said that they would be most welcome.
I quite agree, sweet Mother.
Two young gentlemen. That was very incautious of you, Rakel.
You should think of your daughters. This really won't do.
There is something called decency!
- Well, who were those gentlemen? - Two young students.
- Fellow students of the dean's son. - Very young people, then.
There's nothing wrong with that. We were also young once.
You know very well what I mean! What were their names?
They were called Poul Vaage and Fredrik Münster.
What? My dear old friend Fredrik Münster?
His grandson, I should think.
So it would be improper to welcome a grandson of old Fredrik Münster?
Such a man of honour! That would be improper?
It might offend virgin Blanca's sense of decency?
Is it not reconcilable with her virginal honour?
Not so personal, if you please. Keep to the subject, old grouch.
Keep your snide remarks to yourself!
This is about whether or not it is favourable -
- to have two young and completely unknown men move into the house.
Don't forget that you have no less than three young girls here.
Very favourable. Very favourable indeed.
At least two of them can be engaged. If we're lucky ...
- Hans! - Auntie Bag!
How can you say those things when the young girls are listening?
I am sure they are all ashamed of you.
I am sure they will embrace me as soon as you've gone.
You lout!
- Old maid! - Bravo, Granddad!
Now the game of patience didn't come out.
I'll see that as a good omen.
There went the cork.
No, no ... I don't know which way to turn.
Girls, don't forget to start on the Christmas decorations.
Good, little girls. Look at that.
- Where is the old crocodile today? - Auntie Bag is in the lounge.
She is sitting in the armchair.
I've noticed she has taken over that armchair.
She is entrenching herself in her fortress. I shall try and conquer it.
Maybe I can trick the old spider.
What if I tried to smoke out the old lady like a badger?
I managed to knock the cockatoo off the perch!
No ... There probably won't be a Christmas tree this year, children.
The weather is going to be awful. We can't send anyone to the woods.
We'll have to make do with a branch. We'll decorate it really nicely.
- You're just saying that. - No, my boy.
I'll ask Marianne to find our biggest branch.
Branch? And it's Christmas Eve tomorrow?
But ... What is this supposed to mean?
I've said all along. It's for the children's sake, you see.
We couldn't have a Christmas tree this year.
Sing along and hold each other's hands!
Then we'll go round the branch ... no, what am I saying?
Round the Christmas tree, everybody.
It's a nice branch, don't you think, children?
Well, children? What are you looking for?
- Is it the Christmas presents? - Yes ...
I think I'd better look in here ...
Oh my! How fine it is.
How disgusting! It is an animal. Get the beast out!
"Get the beast out," yes.
- "For Granddad who ..." - Don't read the verses out loud!
"For Granddad who the dragon got and made of her a laughing stock."
"For you, beloved Granddad who the crocodile defeated
I always will be ready and help you beat it."
Bravo, Kirsten! Bravo, my child. That's the sort of poetry I like.
- Ruth. Auntie looks so displeased. - Maybe she wanted more presents.
- Don't say that! - She had all sorts of things.
But she is displeased, that's for sure.
You'll have to go up to the bedroom -
- and wrap the big cameo that Uncle Jacob gave me for my birthday.
Nette, I am so looking forward to tomorrow.
- Why? - You know very well.
You know who's coming: medical student Poul Vaage -
- and law student Fredrik Münster.
I'm sorry that we're barging into your house like this.
Yes. Had we known that the dean didn't have any more room -
- then we would have probably cancelled our Christmas holiday.
Well, that is ... Maybe not, when ...
We have three or four vacant rooms waiting for guests.
And three young daughters waiting for you.
That is quite unnecessary. You can rest assured -
- that you are welcome here. Or what do you think, Blanca?
You old, impudent .. !
How time flies! Good thing it's only Christmas once a year.
I'll help you serve the coffee. There are so many of us now.
That's kind of Kirsten. You can take these cake dishes.
I am sure that student Vaage is in love with Antoinette.
And I think Münster will fall in love with Ruth.
I think Mother and the dean's wife have lied about the lack of room.
- Wait a bit! - Just wait. You'll see who's right.
Are you fond of embroidery, Miss Antoinette?
Yes, I find it interesting.
Isn't it lonely living out here in the country all year round?
- Lonely, no. We're always busy. - The long winter ...
I must say. Has Fredrik really not told you about the time -
- when he and I were attacked by a pack of wolves -
- on the way to Trondheim? Hasn't he told you that story?
- Not that I can remember, no. - It was a sleigh ride.
We were going to Kongsvall. Suddenly, the horse became anxious.
"What's wrong with him?" I asked. "I think it's wolves", he said.
"Wolves," I said. "Listen, Fredrik. It's wolves."
"God help us!" Fredrik said. "Take it easy," I said.
I got my pistols out.
Six or seven wolves came charging straight for us.
- And he's never told this story? - He probably has, but not to me.
The pack of wolves gained on us. As soon as they were within range, -
- I aimed for the largest beast. I shot, and there it lay.
The others threw themselves at it and ate their friend.
But when I looked for my old friend Fredrik, he had disappeared.
"Thunder and lightning!" I said. Could he have fallen off?
But fortunately it wasn't that bad.
He had huddled at the bottom of the sleigh and hidden in the straw.
And he hasn't told you this? Peculiar.
Granddad, can't you help me with this game of patience?
- I can't make it work. - Even though it's so easy?
- There must be a mistake. - Please help me.
Yes, I'll help you.
Let's see ... That one should be over there.
- May I sit with you, Miss Ruth? - Yes, go ahead.
- We've had a lot of snow. - Yes, it comes with Christmas.
But I think it's stopped now. Maybe we could go for a walk?
Yes! Antoinette, Mr Münster suggests that we go for a walk.
Yes. Let's do that.
Please don't call me Mr Münster. Couldn't you just say Münster?
- I'll try. - Preferably just Fredrik.
- Aren't you a bit demanding? - Could I call you Ruth?
- It's such a pretty name. - Fredrik is even prettier.
There, you see. It came out fine.
They're going for a walk. They are right to do that.
Don't you think they make two nice couples, Kirsten?
I don't think like that. I'm much too young for that.
Yes, you! But Ruth and Nette have the perfect age.
- Dear me! To be young again ... - You're not old, Granddad.
Old, no? No, old I am not. Thank God.
I still have teeth so that I can bite back.
Hush! Auntie Bag is coming. Watch your step!
Would you belive? Ruth and Antoinette are going for a walk alone -
- with the two boys.
It is about time I speak my mind. In my opinion it is indecent.
That sort of thing was not done when I was young.
I'll believe that. It's so long ago.
It is not long ago at all! Young ladies should be reserved -
- with young and aggressive men.
If you hadn't been so well-behaved and reserved, as you call it, -
- you might not have become such a bitter old spinster.
Rude old fool!
Kirsten, do you have the cheek to sit and laugh?
- Are you laughing at me? - No, I'm laughing at Granddad.
Yes, laugh at me as much as you want!
Have you heard the news, Kirsten?
We're paying a Christmas visit to the dean's house.
We're all going right after dinner. There'll be ballroom dancing.
Have you heard? We're paying the dean a Christmas visit tonight.
Is Sleeping Beauty also going?
- Yes. - What a disappointment.
But listen, how about if we all left on our own?
We could maybe draw lots.
I mean, one of us takes care of the old lady, -
- and the other one, the conqueror, goes off with the princesses!
Nonsense! Nonsense, I say.
You will leave the peacock to me, naturally.
Take that, dean!
- Look at him over there! - Barrister Plum.
Yes, if it isn't sweet, little Plum.
"Sweet, little ..." This is going too far now, girls!
But he is so sweet. Look at him when he's bowing.
Mr. Plum, are you getting married? Is it true?
No, ladies ...
No, I've never considered it ...
Well, see if I didn't win again!
Dear friend, how nice to see you! Let's have a game of cards.
- No, I don't play. - Come on, it would be nice.
- No ... - Let go of him, you crazy person!
Show some moderation. You don't hold a grown man by his collar!
Well, Doctor, you stepped on the basilisk's toes.
That won't kill you. At our age, we don't care much for women.
Good Lord, what a woman!
- So I'm sweeter than Pia Nanson? - Yes, you are.
If you ever fall in love with me -
- then I wouldn't want you to hang your head. Do you hear?
I would want you to be happy when you looked at me.
- You like me anyway, don't you? - Do you really think so?
You have no idea how happy I am to have met you, Mister barrister.
I really need your advice.
There are so many things I can ask a man.
A man with your wealth of experience.
Dear miss, I am completely at your disposal.
I am glad we met again, Miss Antoinette.
Do you remember last Christmas?
Yes. That was also a Christmas party at the dean's.
I remember you clearly. You wore a light blue silk dress -
- and a red coral necklace. You were like a vision.
That dress made quite an impression. You probably didn't like this one.
Yes, it was even more beautiful. Just as beautiful as you, Antoinette.
Antoinette, I would like to speak with you. Come here.
I would like to talk to you about the young gentlemen.
It was very incautious of your mother to let the young people in.
But now the damage is done, and let us learn from that.
I would like some information about the young gentlemen.
I am being kept out of nearly everything in this house.
You know one of them from before. Student Vaage. Well?
- Why are you blushing? - Auntie, I assure you ...
- I don't know ... - Rubbish! Why are you blushing?
- I don't know, Auntie. - What kind of quibbles is that?
Your face is blushing like a tulip!
There is some flirtation between you and this student, then?
- Auntie must not think ... - There is no smoke without fire.
- You're fond of this Vaage, then? - Whether I'm fond of him?
I don't understand that you can ask that question.
No one is asking what you do or don't understand!
Are you fond of him? Yes or no?
Auntie has no right to ask that question.
Is that so, little Miss Saucy?
Answer me at once! Are you fond of the student or not?
Yes, by God!
How dare you do that to Antoinette? How dare you?
But child, what's wrong with you?
Just try one more time, you old owl!
I'll turn you inside out! Try and say another wrong word to Antoinette!
She's a thousand times better than you! I hate you, you ugly witch!
Witch, witch!
No!
Rakel!
I demand that Kirsten be punished in an exemplary manner.
- A whipping of her bare ... - But what has Kirsten done?
She called me a witch!
Child, what is this atrocious story Auntie is telling?
That you came stamping in and called her a witch several times?
- Is that really possible? - Yes, it is true.
I also called her an old owl. She is a monster!
But Kirsten! How could you behave like that?
Auntie may be unreasonable, but you're still only a child.
You bring dishonour on the whole house.
You always tell me I'm a child. As if a child isn't also a human being.
I'm more human than Auntie, I can tell you that!
Shame on you, Kirsten! You must learn that there is a difference -
- between children and adults.
Kirsten isn't as guilty as it looks. Believe me.
What is this story, child?
Auntie is beside herself over Kirsten's behaviour.
And here you are, all red-eyed. What is all this?
Don't cry, Kirsten.
You see, Mother, Kirsten wasn't furious on her own behalf.
- She was furious for me. - I don't understand a thing.
Auntie hasn't said a word about you.
No, because you wouldn't believe Auntie had insulted Antoinette.
Adults can't do anything wrong. Only us children. It's outrageous!
There, there. Relax and let me get a grip of all this.
- Tell me the whole story. - Do you want to tell Mother alone?
- I can leave. - No, just stay.
Dear Antoinette. I don't want to intrude myself on you, -
- but I must get a grip of all this.
Is it something to do with the young gentlemen?
- Yes. - Did Auntie intrude herself on you?
You know what I mean. Did she try to wring a secret from you?
I don't want to hurt you, but I have to ask.
Yes, Mother. That is exactly what she did.
If only everyone was as good as you ...
I don't want to intrude on you. I just want you to know -
- that if you are fond of someone, -
- then don't think your father and mother will stand in your way.
- Sweet, loving mother! - There, there.
Kirsten! I'll have to speak to father about you.
- I hate Auntie! - You must learn to control yourself.
I see things differently now, but I can't excuse you fully.
And what do you think Father will say?
- Come closer, Kirsten. - Yes, Father.
- How old are you actually? - 15.
Sometimes things can be a bit drab for you here, can't they?
I thought you might want to go away for a year or so.
To the capital.
I have a letter here from Uncle Jacob.
Shall I tell him you're coming after your confirmation?
Is it really true? Can I go away?
Yes, as you heard, Uncle will take you in.
But I don't understand. I thought I was going to ... be whipped?
Yes, Auntie has certainly demanded that you be punished.
And since you are a child until your confirmation ...
Yes, Father. As you wish.
No, my dear. You won't be punished.
Don't think that your old father doesn't understand.
It was nice of you to take up the cudgels for Antoinette.
But you must understand, I still don't think you did the right thing.
Dear, dear Father! I shall never forget this.
Where is the old harridan today? Have you given her rat meat?
Auntie is ... not really well, the poor thing.
No? That's exceedingly sad. Exceedingly deplorable.
Dare one ask if she has cut herself on her own tongue?
Or is it bile?
Is mademoiselle in bed, perhaps?
Dear mademoiselle, don't misunderstand us.
We are so fond of you, all of us. It was only because you asked -
- about Auntie. She's been really nasty to you.
Mademoiselle and I are fellow sufferers.
Fellow sufferers? Why don't you tell me? What is this secrecy?
Have you forgotten who chased the cockatoo out of the armchair?
- Is Auntie sick? - No, no. She's offended.
Mortally offended. She's locked her door.
The scrivener and madam have both begged her, but to no avail.
- She hasn't eaten for two days. - But why?
She demanded the scrivener punish Kirsten in an exemplary manner.
But the scrivener refused, and it was quite a scene.
She will not eat a bite before he had apologized, -
- and Kirsten had been whipped.
Well ... How is the patient today?
No appetite? Lost her interest in food, maybe?
Have you told her that we're having roast chicken today?
As tender as pigeons; and then stewed fruit with cream afterwards.
That should do it!
You laugh, but I don't find it very laughable.
- She hasn't eaten for three days. - Not eaten for three days?
What does the medical student say about such a case? Lethal, I hope?
Is it? Lethal?
Isn't it? Lethal?
Blanca, if you don't open, I'll send for the locksmith!
Then I'll jump out and die!
You have to tell me, Granddad ... I am so curious.
Is Auntie going to kill herself?
I'm sure the intention is real enough. I just don't like the method.
It is too slow. Poison would have done it a lot faster.
Rat poison is an excellent remedy.
Not that starvation isn't a very respectable cause of death.
- We must respect starvation. - But how long can she last?
How long? That is the key. She is as tough as a jaguar, -
- the old queen. But she won't last longer than a few more days.
Tell me, how long has this interesting experiment been going on?
- Four days, Granddad. - Four days. Extremely peculiar.
She won't make it till the day after tomorrow.
Do you really believe she'll starve to death?
No, "believe" is a tad strong. Let's say "hope".
Just a little bit. There is always hope.
- But what about the Christmas party? - It will work out.
We won't cancel everything, because the old flamingo is starving herself.
I don't know whether to laugh or cry. If only it hadn't been for mother.
- She takes it so close to heart. - Won't Auntie be terribly hungry?
One, two, three, four ...
My dear! A new year is ahead of us.
Once again the eternal future is coming to meet us.
We live in a century which must be described as a happy one.
It has brought to us in little Norway peace, work, and progress.
But soon we'll enter another epoch. What will happen then?
I'm thinking of all the new and strange inventions.
Electricity, for example.
And the telephone. God forbid we ever have such an instrument!
But will all these new and strange things be used -
- for the true progress and benefit of the human race?
The years to come will show.
But let's be happy that we live in an age which is only full -
- of our joys and disappointments, small or large.
And let us raise our glass for the year to come.
Let's hope that it will be as good, happy, and blessed -
- as the year which is now drawing to a close.
One chop? Just one?
- Dearest Auntie! - Let me die in peace!
I know very well that your friendliness is not sincere.
You give me neither food nor drink!
How can you say that? Don't we give you anything?
No, you don't. But now it doesn't matter.
- You'll soon be rid of me for good! - Auntie, I beseech you ...
Too late! But don't rejoice too soon.
You won't inherit a penny from me, any of you!
If she doesn't come down we'll have to postpone the party.
- No, Mother! - We must send our excuses.
Yes, girls. I can't stand this any longer.
How could I fulfill my duties as a hostess?
I'd rather cancel the party than become the talk of the town.
One, two, three, four, five.
There won't be a party unless Auntie comes down tomorrow.
Couldn't she have waited with this starvation -
- until after the Christmas party? We'll miss all the fun.
She astonishes me, the old cactus. Amazing how long she stays alive.
She must have a camel's stomach. I was expecting her to go down today.
But what we wish for, you know ... Oh, well.
Let's not lose heart, little Kirsten. A lot can happen before tomorrow.
- What is that? - There was someone on the stairs.
- What if it is ... burglars? - Burglars!
Colonel! Colonel, there are burglars in the house!
Burglars! And Father is away.
Here! Marianne will hold the candle.
A bit to the left, so I won't shoot her.
Is she afraid? Nonsense, I say!
But Colonel, I'm only a poor, weak woman. I might be killed!
Don't worry about that. If you're killed, I'll kill him, too.
I promise you that. Now, walk!
- Open the door! - Must I?
Yes, at once! Understood?
Hold that candle properly! There's no one here.
- The larder door is open. - Yes. We'll go and look.
- Oh, my God! What was that? - Where did that come from?
There! Under the bench, look! But that is ...
Well, if it isn't Auntie Bag in person!
Stop screaming! What is Your Grace doing, -
- sneaking down to the kitchen, dressed like that?
And what is she doing? Well, if it isn't the whole packet of cookies!
Stop screaming and come forward. So this is how you're starving!
First, we drive everybody to despair, then we eat all the cookies!
- Go away, you impudent bastard! - Holy Moses, the brown cookies!
You haven't dared touch the brown cookies also, have you?
Stop aiming at me with those atrocious pistols, you monster!
Marianne, please check if the brown cookies are still there.
They should be in this box.
- The box is empty, Colonel! - I'll be damned!
Have you lost your senses? Haven't you caused enough damage -
- without having to eat the brown cookies?
Couldn't you at least have settled for half the packet?
Oh yes, we're starving! Every single cookie ...
I wish you were in hell, you old witch!
What should the person with this forfeit do?
He or she should pick a companion and go out to count the stars.
That's my forfeit. As my companion I choose Miss Antoinette Bals.
- I thought so! - Oh, did you? You're sharp!
What should the person with this forfeit do?
If it's a man, he should kiss Auntie Blanca.
If it's a woman, she should kiss Barrister Plum!
- Who owns this forfeit? - It is mine.
There you are.
- No! No, you mustn't, Barrister! - Yes, the law must be obeyed.
- I don't want to! - The sentence can't be appealed.
- We can't do it in public! - No, we must find a lonely spot.
May I have the honour?
May l?
There is only one more forfeit. What should this person do?
Let me see ... This is difficult.
He or she should compose a verse on the spot!
- It is your forfeit, dear Fredrik. - That was a harsh sentence.
Fredrik Münster was good at rhyming. I hope you are, too.
No, unfortunately.
I've found a sweetheart, it is bliss
But no one knows who she is
Least of all herself, I find
But she has stolen my peace of mind.
Bravo!
If I were you, I'd tell her. Waltz now!
Come on, let's dance!
You belong with the young, my dear Hans Thue.
Spry until the end.
One must keep with the young. And it's only Christmas once a year.
That's true. Look at all that youth and beauty.
- I'll grant myself another toddy. - Yes, let's do that.
But look, there's Auntie Bag and Barrister Plum again.
Can you believe that shy old git?
Have you ever seen a lamb go more willingly with the wolf?
Let's get ourselves a strong toddy!
Who would have known you were such a ladies' man?
I assure you, Miss Bals ... I have always lacked courage.
You are a very interesting man, Mr Plum.
One who exerts a strange influence on an unfortified woman's heart.
You're just flattering me, Miss Bals.
No, Mr Plum! You are one of those strong men that women can't resist.
- In my youth ... - Miss Bals. I am not who you think.
I don't understand. Here you are, the owner of a beautiful farm, -
- and you've never married?
You must have longed for a tender woman to fill your life?
Yes ... I haven't had time. And I haven't dared ...
- I feel such terror ... Yes. - I understand.
It's not too late. Now you can enjoy the full sweetness of marriage.
- With a tender and loving woman! - You're an enchanting lady.
A dangerously enchanting lady. But ...
Oh, my friend! How beautifully and poetically expressed!
They're dancing the waltz.
A waltz in your arms. Will you make me happy, Mr Plum?
- Isn't your name Joachim? - David Phoebus Joachim.
A poetic name. David Phoedibus Joachim ...
Your arm, s'il vous plait. A waltz with you. Divine!
- You flatter me. - No. I always speak from the heart.
I haven't had my fiancée to myself the whole evening.
Don't forget, only Mother and Father know it.
I shall never forget that sleigh ride.
Me neither. The moon over the ridge.
The lights from all the farms in the village ...
I hope we're not disturbing? Sweet Nette, I didn't know ...
No, no. We're going dancing.
- Kirsten ... - Yes, Olaf? What is it?
Next Christmas you'll be 16, and I'll be 20.
- Then I'll propose. You'll see. - I wouldn't dream of it!
- Catch me if you can! - I'll catch you!
- What's happening? - Olaf and I are just playing.
- Have you seen Plum? - Little Plum? Have you lost him?
Yes. I lost him on the dance floor. I wanted to ask him something.
- I'd better try to blend in. - Where have you been hiding?
You look like you've swallowed a camel!
- I haven't swallowed it yet ... - We need a fourth man for whist.
A toddy will do me good!
There you are! Come on, my dear friend.
- The Francaise is about to start. - Francaise? No, no.
- The barrister is playing whist. - I don't know the Francaise.
- I've never tried it in my life! - It doesn't matter. I'll teach you.
No hesitation. Come on!
A gentleman like you should know how to dance the Francaise.
- Come on! - What a woman!
Sorry, Ruth, but we have to think of the midnight snack.
Your apron is there.
Fortunately, there are enough cakes. Even Granddad's brown cookies.
What would we have done if the Colonel hadn't thought of those?
Quiet! Don't you know what Auntie did in her sleep?
What? Did she eat up the cookies in her sleep?
Well, I never!
We had to think of something. We couldn't explain the starvation.
The story is that Auntie was sleepwalking.
- We all pretend to believe that. - I see.
Thank God it's all over with Auntie. It's been an awful time.
Even yesterday Auntie was furious. She wanted to leave right away.
But she stayed. I think Father gave her a piece of his mind.
But she doesn't look like she's regretting it.
She looks like a buttercup with rosy cheeks.
Ruth, please go down to the cellar and get some salami.
Yes, Mother.
Have you seen Auntie? She's flirting with the Plum like a young girl.
I went past her, and she called for me. "Dear Kirsten," she said.
"Dear" ... And I've called her a witch and an owl! I ask you!
Kirsten, let's forget all that now. Go and help Mother set the table.
- But Münster! Is it you? - Yes, you see ...
I heard you were down here, and I felt like a midnight snack.
- What did you feel like? - Salami.
Salami? How lucky. I was just going to cut it.
Couldn't you put away the knife?
There is no knowing what a man like you might do.
My intentions are honourable.
- Is that so? - Yes, but ...
They say that "opportunity makes the thief."
- I want to steal. Now or never! - You wouldn't, would you?
Yes, I want to steal you, Ruth. Steal you for life.
I am so fond of you. You know that. Tell me that you're fond of me.
- Yes, Fredrik. - Oh, Ruth!
Oh, Ruth, I'll never let you go!
- Is anyone down here? - It's Granddad! Let go!
I thought I heard somebody down here. Is anyone there?
- Yes, Granddad. - Is that you, Ruth? Are you alone?
- No, Granddad. - Who else is here?
- Me, Colonel. - Fredrik Münster! What's going on?
Colonel, Ruth and l have become engaged.
What? My old friend, Fredrik Münster, and my granddaughter Ruth?
And down here? Oh, well, there it is.
That I should live to see this! You have my blessing, children.
Auntie Bag's worst fears have been confirmed!
- Thank you, Granddad! - We must go upstairs.
Let's go and tell them.
- I have two fugitives here. - You were gone a long time, Ruth.
Have you both been down to the cellar?
- We are engaged now, Mother. - Engaged? In the cellar?
- Not bad, is it? - I've never heard such a thing!
- You must have frozen half to death. - No danger of that.
- You are really fond of each other? - Save the superfluous questions.
I have no say in this, so I'll simply congratulate you.
But you're not sorry about it, are you?
No, my child. You know me well. I am just a bit surprised.
But dear ... Are you all setting the table? And you look so happy!
- It truly is an excellent party. - We have news.
Yes, dear Auntie. Ruth and Mr Münster have become engaged.
I must say! What an unspeakable joy!
- Accept my blessing, children. - Did you hear that, Granddad?
She'll start growing white wings soon.
Let's go in and tell Father.
Dear Ruth. Have you and Münster also become engaged?
A hell of a lad!
That was the voice of the doctor. Let me repeat his words:
What a hell of a lad! Congratulations, dear children.
You have my blessing.
There you are! Come on, my dear Plum.
Auntie Bag is dragging the barrister along. I don't suppose ...
The poor knight!
I think the doctor found the right words again.
- My friends ... - Wait. Let me say a few words.
Ladies and gentlemen, dear friends.
My wife and I are delighted to declare the engagement -
- of graduate Poul Vaage and our oldest daughter, Antoinette.
And between studiosus juris Fredrik Münster and our daughter Ruth.
It went as my sister predicted:
They were truly dangerous men we took into the house!
Congratulations!
Congratulations, dear Ruth and Nette. Now, dear Plum, it is your turn.
- Announce our secret! - No, I don't want to.
I'm not a good speaker. Let's keep it a secret.
No, it must be revealed. If you won't, then I will.
- Play the trump card! - Who's talking?
- It's just the doctor playing cards. - He cuts in well. Doctor!
Put down the cards. This will get more amusing.
Yes, my dear Hans Thue. It's time for the trump card.
I wasn't the first to be engaged, but I'll be the first to marry.
My fiancé, Barrister Plum, would like to say a few words.
No, it's a misunderstanding ... I am not a good speaker.
No, it's a misunderstanding ...
Good Lord, what is this?
Have you been on the love path?
We have decided to marry as soon as possible.
There is no reason to wait.
We haven't made the decision yet. Not the final decision.
- What? - I reserve the right to back out.
I think I'm losing my marbles!
SPECIAL LICENCE
Dear Blanca. I hope and wish that this will be a blessing.
It will be. Don't worry.
As soon as I'm married, I'll get my way.
Where is he? The culprit keeps us waiting.
The doctor, who is picking him up, is usually a reliable man.
As long as the dean hasn't arrived. He has a long way to go.
- Why isn't he coming? - I don't know, my child.
But I don't find it strange that he's dragging his feet.
Slavery for life is not something to leap into.
There is a sleigh! Now he's coming up the hill!
No, it's the dean.
- Hello, everybody. - Hello, my dear Dean.
- Welcome. - Thank you.
And there is the bride! Hello, dear Miss Bals.
My heartiest congratulations on this important day.
Shall we begin, then?
- But where is the groom? - The groom, yes.
He ought to be here for the occasion.
He is a bit delayed, unfortunately. Snow problems, perhaps.
- But he should be here any minute. - Then we shall have to wait.
But it was ... What I was going to say ...
We'll have to wait.
Let's shorten the wait with a glass of wine.
Yes, a glass of wine would do us good.
Thank you, not for me!
I don't want to! Do you hear? I don't want to!
I don't want to, I say! Is that clear?
Yes, yes, Plummel! I'm not out to ruin you.
You must talk to the bride. You have a special licence and all.
Special licence?
- There it is. - What are you doing?
There are the pieces. Why did you have to come and get me?
Get me as if I were a log of firewood, or a cheese!
But I am no log! I'm a cheese!
I mean, I'm a person! Even though I may be comical.
This is it! I don't want to marry!
No, no. But you must settle it with the bride.
You can't let her sit there. Come on!
I'll never marry that darned woman! She's been pestering me.
I've never thought of marrying her. It was her idea.
- She tricked me. - Yes, I know. Let's go inside.
Yes, God damn it! You call this friendship?
Quiet!
Oh, look! There is the barrister, at last!
I wish to speak with Mr Plum in private.
Let's go into the cabinet.
I think you need a glass of wine.
You look as exhausted as the groom.
How vociferous they became in there!
Maybe they're both hard of hearing.
It sounds exactly like a fight.
What was that sound? It sounded like ...
... a box on the ear, yes. The lady has very striking arguments.
That's it! I've had enough!
Wasn't that the groom? Wasn't it Plum who was ..?
I thought so.
Auntie Bag managed to cause another scandal before she left.
But apart from that, let's agree that we've had a nice Christmas!