- Ready to make one, Gene? - Okay. Let's hit it, boys.
Watch the light.
- # Say, get a load of that moon # - # Look at those stars #
#We get it all for free #
#All the pretty birdies sing for #
# People like you and me #
- #You've heard of roses are red # - #Violets are blue #
#That's corny poetry #
# Maybe corn is just the thing for #
# People like you and me #
# Folks may say we're antiquated #
# If they do who cares #
# So we're not sophisticated #
# Leave it to the millionaires #
# I'm gonna stick to the moon stay with the stars #
#That's my philosophy #
# Nature must have thought of spring for #
# People like you and me #
# Say, get a load of those guys high in the skies #
#Wingin' to victory #
# Up and at 'em in the fight for #
# People like you and me #
# Hey, get a load of those gobs doing their jobs #
# Keepin' the sea lanes free #
#Just to make the future bright for #
# People like you and me #
#You must put your Yankee heart and soul in #
# Everything you do #
# Keep 'em flyin' Keep 'em rollin' #
# Uncle Sam will see you through #
- #We'll have to roll up our sleeves # - #Tighten our belts #
# But through the dark we'll see #
#The lady with the liberty light for #
# People like you and you and you and #
# People like me People like you and me ##
The trumpet peaked. I think Bill Abbot stood a little too close to the mike.
Can't you stand over on the other side, Bill?
Well, I hear the rhythm a lot better where I am.
Over there I feel like I'm out in left field.
Well, next time just point your horn away from the mike, Bill.
Grab a smoke, boys, and we make it.
- Good morning, Jaynie. - What could be good about it at 10:30?
Well, I only told you to come early 'cause I knew you'd be late.
- When do I sing? - As soon as I get back.
Are you coming back?
Sure. Why?
Oh, I don't know.
Hello, men.
Hello, Jaynie.
#With the light brown hair #
Yeah, and the dark brown taste.
Let me get a look at you guys.
'Cause I'm a gal that knows all the answers.
This is the first time I ever saw a canary...
who looked like she swallowed a canary.
Or a cat who looked like she'd swallowed another cat.
I'll take the starch out of you.
We're going on tour.
- Tour? - Are you kiddin'?
How do you like that?
I'll quit first. After the last tour, I almost ended up in the divorce court.
My wife just bought a vacuum cleaner. That's gonna be hard to pack around.
You oughta quit trying to live like a normal person.
Natalie won't wanna go.
Ah, you fellas are crazy. You were crazy to get married.
Now, companionship is all right, but there's no point in carrying it to an extreme.
Hey, wait a minute, Bill. We heard that.
You can't knock marriage to us. We're happy even when we're on tour.
Happier. We don't have your mother with us.
Ray Eberle, that's a nasty thing to say.
Honey, I was only kiddin'.
Are you sure about this tour, Jaynie?
Positive. When I was in the hotel drugstore this morning...
they were sending up six bottles of sleeping pills to Gene.
You can't get it any straighter than that.
You know the kind of insomnia he has on the road.
Okay, boys, let's go to work.
Oh, uh, Gene, how about a playback on that last record?
Well, sure, Bill. That's a swell idea.
Dave, do you mind playing that last one back?
- Okay, hit it. - # Roses are red Violets are blue #
#We're not going on a tour with you #
- Looks like trombone and piano for us. - Somebody's been talkin'.
Why, one look at that shifty eye of yours and we knew everything.
Except how many towns we play in in how many days?
Now, wait a minute, Bill. Listen, fellas.
This is not like last time. That was murder.
Thirty-six towns in 45 days.
Why, this time we only play 29 towns.
- In how many days? - Well, practically 35.
What do you mean practically?
- Well, uh, 30. - He was counting the change of time.
You see, we go all the way out to the coast this time, right out to California...
with all that orange juice and sunshine.
We'll need it if we're alive when we get there.
Now listen, I don't like tours any better than you do.
You know I can't sleep on them, and I fought against this one, didn't I, Rex?
- That's right. - I was only thinking of the band.
You don't get anyplace playing in one spot.
We make our money and our reputation on the road.
Why, last year we sold over three million records.
Did you count that cracked one?
Well, the people who do buy these records are the people all over America.
The people who heard Gene Morrison and his orchestra on the road last year.
The people who listened to you on the radio.
The kids in schools, the girls in offices and shops, they wanna see ya.
And every time they do, they go out and buy your latest record.
Rex is right. It isn't the carriage trade that pays our salaries, boys.
It's those kids that put those nickels in the jukeboxes all over the country.
Are you playing that Gene Morrison record again?
- Sure. - You're gonna wear it out.
Look, honey, I have to go. I'll see you tomorrow, hmm? Bye.
Bye.
- Wait for us, Hazel. - Okay.
- Boy, that man's a solid sender. - That's Bill Abbot.
Yeah, when he gets riding on that go toy, the cats really start crying.
- Say, uh, Connie- - Shh. I wanna hear this.
So you wanna be sore at me, huh?
So I got a little fresh last night. So what?
- So, shut up. - So, I'm sorry.
You were so darn cute, Connie. I got carried away.
You would have been if you'd gone any farther.
- What are you doing tonight? - Nothing with you.
- Oh, what are you afraid of? - Say, listen.
I paid a nickel to hear this record. I can hear you free anytime.
Okay.
So I ask somebody else.
I just thought you might wanna drive over to Dixon with me...
to see Gene Morrison in person.
- Gene Morrison? - Yeah.
Gene Morrison playing in Dixon?
Yeah, just for tonight. It's too bad I'm such an unpleasant guy.
Ah, it would have been a lot of fun.
- Maybe I'll go with you, Cully. - What do you mean, maybe?
I'll go with you.
So, I'm a pleasant character again.
I'll pick you up early, right after dinner.
#At last #
# My love has come along #
# My lonely days are over #
#And life is like a song #
#At last #
#The skies above are blue #
# My heart was wrapped in clover #
#The night I looked at you #
# I found a dream that I can speak to #
#A dream that I can call my own #
# I found the thrill to press my cheek to #
#A thrill I've never known #
#You smiled #
#And then the spell was cast #
#And here we are in heaven #
# For you are mine at last #
# You smiled #
#And then the spell was cast #
# And here we are in heaven #
# For you are mine at last ##
Well, let's go over to the fountain and get a Coke.
Oh, Cully, there's gonna be such a crowd. Let's get it later.
No, that's all right. I'll get 'em.
All right. I'll meet you over there by the big tree.
Okay.
I say, Professor, you've hunted in all parts of the country...
what kind of quail is that there?
Over there by the tree.
That is very unusual, Doctor. You know, that kind of game is not typical in this section.
Well, um, what would you say it was, Professor? A red-bill roadrunner?
No, no, no, Doctor. Why, I could say with perfect confidence...
that it's a blacktop cinch.
Now wait a minute, fellas. Wait a minute. Don't start that again.
That's how we got in the jam in Cincinnati.
Why, my dear Chancellor, this agitation is needless.
We couldn't possibly get in that big a jam again. Much smaller town.
I beg your pardon, Professor, but if you recall, I saw the specimen first.
But, my dear Doctor, you forget...
I'm the greatest living authority on the cinch.
There he goes again. Out of the frying pan, into the frying pan.
Pardon me, uh, have you got a match?
No, I'm sorry, I- You're Bill Abbot.
You don't know me, do you?
Oh, yes.
I- I mean no.
But I've heard you a million times.
Well, if I'd known you were listening, I would have played sweeter.
Oh, that wouldn't have been possible.
Anyone could see you have an ear for music.
- Shouldn't we talk this over? - No.
- What was that? - No.
That's not loud enough.
Why don't you guys settle down and get married?
- What are you gonna do when you're middle-aged? - How can I say now?
Maybe by that time they'll discover something new.
Oh, now please, Mr. Abbot.
- Why, would you like something? - You know this isn't right.
Now listen, cutie-pie. I'm a big bad trumpet player.
And never in my life have I seen anything so gorgeous coming off a dance floor.
I've seen thousands. I've kissed some of them.
- But not like I'm gonna kiss you. - Now please-
Do you carry a battery?
- What? - Something made my heels tingle.
I don't like this, Sinjin. I think he's looking for that girl with Bill.
I think he's gonna find her.
Hey, what's coming off here?
- Oh, Cully. - Come on, you. Get outta there.
- I said get outta there. - Gorgeous, do you feel a draft?
You get outta there, or I'll bust you right where you sit.
Ah, that would be a foul.
- All right. You asked for it. - Now, now, take it easy.
- You let go of me! - Now, look. I'm not gonna let you hit him.
He's a trumpet player, and he might get his lip busted.
Hey, sonny, you were making a noise like a husband.
Are you married to this girl, or just naturally obnoxious?
Oh, I'm not married.
Well, in that case, we're playing at Elgin tomorrow night.
- Why not come down and hear us? - Why, you-
You're gonna get a lump on your head, king-size.
Good night, gorgeous. See you in Elgin.
Good night.
You certainly made a sucker out of me all this time, playin' hard to get.
- What? - I said I just knocked outJoe Louis.
- Please don't feel that way, Cully. - I'm blamin' myself.
That's what I get for being a Good Samaritan.
Ain't doing it now, Doc, but yesterday it was going like a trip-hammer.
Uh-huh. Come in.
- Good morning, Dad. - Connie.
- Hello, Henry. How are you? - Oh, I had a terrible scare yesterday, Connie.
My heart again, going like a trip-hammer.
Oh, nonsense, Henry. That heart will last you as long as you live.
It will? Swell, Doc.
But how long will I live?
Well, if you're invited to any parties for more than 50 years from now...
you'd better say, "I'll check with you later. "
See, Henry, you're gonna be all right.
Yeah, probably crazy to be scared like I was yesterday...
but you've only got one heart, you know.
Well, Henry, if you start listening for things, it's surprising what you'll hear.
- Yeah, I guess so. Bye, Connie. - Bye.
- Thanks, Doc. - Good-bye, Henry.
And by the way, the medicinal qualities of whiskey are greatly overrated.
Oh, yeah, Doc? Oh.
- Did you have a good time last night, Connie? - Oh, wonderful.
- You go over with Cully? - Uh-huh.
Where was this wonderful dance, over in Dixon, wasn't it?
Yes. And the orchestra was marvelous.
In fact, they're playing at Elgin tonight. I thought maybe I'd go.
Elgin? That's quite a distance to go for a dance, isn't it?
Oh, it isn't so terribly far.
I could go over on the afternoon bus and come back on the midnight.
It leaves there at midnight. Of course, it wouldn't get here till awfully late.
Mm-hmm. You going over with Cully again, huh?
- No. - No?
Well, that must be quite an orchestra.
It's the best in the country. I met one of them, Bill Abbot, the trumpet player.
He asked me to come over to Elgin to hear them tonight.
What sort of fella is this trumpet player?
Oh, he's tall and good-looking.
And when he plays, the shivers go up and down your back.
Really. Some trumpet player.
- Oh, yes, he is. - You think you oughta go over there alone?
Oh, I wouldn't want to go with anyone.
- I see. - Oh, it'd be all right.
You know, Connie, like I just said to Henry...
you start listening, you can hear anything you want to.
If I'd listened to people 20 years ago...
the day I first brought you into the world...
I never would have adopted ya.
Look what I would have missed.
A lot of people didn't give you much chance to turn out very well.
But you made liars out of them.
Of course, I know you're not gonna do anything now to let me down.
No, Dad, I wouldn't.
You go on over to Elgin and have a good time.
Only, uh, I think if anybody asks you...
you'd better say you're going to visit relatives.
And that goes for Hilda too.
She never means to talk, but somehow things get out.
Oh, darling.
- Got an escort, lady? - Why, no.
Sorry, only ladies with escorts admitted.
Oh, but Bill Abbot asked me to come. He's in the band.
- Should have brought you then. - Oh, please, it's important.
I didn't make up the rules. Step aside. You're blocking the entrance.
- Oh, please. - I didn't make the rules.
I told you once. Tickets, please. Tickets. Hurry along, folks.
Tickets. Tickets.
Yeah!
I understand the cinches are migrating early this year.
Well, I didn't think she'd fly away while it was still so warm up here.
You must be losing your touch. After all, you were with her for about 10 minutes last night.
That was a pretty rare specimen.
I'm gonna feel awful if I've lost it.
Okay, boys, let's go again. Eighty-three.
What do you say, fellas? Let's get something to eat.
- Not me. Good night, boys. - Good night, Rex.
- Hey, what about you, Ben? - No, the wife's waiting for me at the hotel.
Why, you sad man.
Uh-huh. You poor soul.
- Come on, Bill, let's go. - Yeah, might as well. I've got nothing el-
Hey, may I take that back? Doc, I'm penciled in for a dream.
Gorgeous, where have you been?
- Hello. - I've been playing with one eye on the music...
and one eye on the entrance all evening waiting for you.
I've been trying to listen out here. They wouldn't let me in without an escort.
- And you waited all evening for me? - Uh-huh.
That's really flattering. Come on, let's get something to eat...
and look into each other's eyes across the table.
Oh, I'd love to, but I can't. My bus leaves in a few minutes.
- Your what leaves? - My bus.
My-My bus for home.
You're telling it wrong, gorgeous. There must be a funnier tagline than that.
I wish I didn't have to go, but there won't be another bus until morning.
- Well, what's wrong with that one? - Well-
Well, I-I promised my father I'd be home tonight.
I don't want to pry into your personal affairs...
but just what did you come over here for?
- To see you. - Well, that's more like it.
- Now let's forget all that talk about going home. - But I have to.
Look, gorgeous, I know men. Your father doesn't expect you.
Why, he'd be worried sick if he really thought you were coming home...
- the way they drive at night. - I want to stay, but I just can't.
This is where I take the bus.
You don't think I'm gonna let you go, do you?
You're still carrying that battery, aren't you?
You must carry one too.
Oh, darn it.
Please take the morning bus.
- Good-bye, Bill. - Wait a minute, gorgeous.
- You're not going. - Kiss me good-bye.
Go ahead, kiss her, will ya? I'm 10 minutes late.
- Please stay. - I can't. I just can't.
Well, just stay another hour then, and I'll rent a car.
We'd only have to say good-bye all over again.
Now look, I don't wanna say good-bye to you, and I'm not going to.
Look, mister, either kiss her, rent a car or call the whole thing off...
- because I'm leaving in five seconds. - Good-bye, Bill.
Please stay.
We'll-We'll get married.
- Oh, Bill. - I may be mistaken...
but did you hear anyone asking you to marry him?
You wanna take it back?
If you're inferring I don't know my own mind, I don't, but I'm all for it.
Well, it's a terribly important step.
Don't you think we oughta wait a while?
I've been waiting all evening. Where can we find a minister in this town?
Oh, gosh, we can't get married in this state.
Why, don't they like musicians?
- They have a three-day law. - Oh.
We could drive to Indiana. They don't have any law.
I always knew I liked Indiana. Where can we find a cab?
- Hey, Sinjin. - Well, well, Professor.
I find you engrossed in your experiments as usual.
Well, Doctor, we're gonna get married.
- Y-When? - Right now.
- Where? - Indiana.
Well, I'll come right out with it. Why?
Well, you know-
How would you like to be best man?
Well, I'd like it very much, but I must say, Professor...
this is the first time I ever saw the bird bring the hunter home.
Don't mind him, gorgeous.
- This is St. John Smith. We all call him Sinjin. - Hello.
Hello, gorgeous. Or do you have another name?
Sure, sure, she-
- Hey, what is your name? - Connie.
- Connie Ward. - Connie Ward.
Well, this is Bill Abbot. I take it you two haven't met.
Hey, Bullets, you wanna see me?
Yeah, listen, Ben. I'm the propman, and I've got enough to do.
- Now get that outta here. - Now wait a minute.
Get that outta here.
- Hey, Mom. - Hmm?
- Can't we ship this thing back? - No, Ben.
- Hey, where's Sinjin and Bill? - I don't know, boss.
Have you seen Sinjin and Bill?
I haven't seen them all morning. They weren't in their rooms last night.
I thought you were with Sinjin last night.
Well, honey, I would have been if he'd have been there, but-
- Well, where were you then? - Not so early in the morning.
Wait until you get him on the train to beat him up, will ya?
Where's the telephone?
- Right over there, sir. - Okay, honey.
Oh, there's one of them now. Sinjin, where you been?
- I was a bridesmaid. - Ah, that's not funny.
- Where's Bill? - He was the bride.
Oh, Dad, he's wonderful.
Yes, Dad, it's the trumpet player.
I just couldn't leave him.
And then at the last minute he decided he couldn't leave me either, so we got married.
Well, then- Well, when will I see ya?
Are you coming home?
Oh, all the way to California.
That'll be a nice trip for you.
No, no, no, Connie, I- I think it's fine.
That's the way to get married, when you can't leave each other.
Oh, I'm sure he is.
Oh, Dad, the train's waiting. I can't say any more now, but I'll write you everything.
His name? Oh, darling, I told you. It's Bill Abbot.
I'm Mrs. Bill Abbot.
Good-bye, darling.
- Come on, Sinjin, what's she like? - Come on, tell us.
- Sweet and lovely, or what? - I never thought anybody'd get Bill.
- She must be dynamite. - Well, she's not exactly the explosive type...
but, uh, she's nothing to be handled carelessly.
Now don't tell me she's the gingham apron "injunue" type.
- She means "ingenue. " - Just for that, I mean "injunue. "
All right, don't fight, girls. You'll see her.
What is she, Japanese?
- Meow. - Oh, shut up.
There she is now.
All aboard!
She's a little red around the eyes.
Oh, Christopher, a weeper.
If there's anything I hate it's a leaky dame.
- Come on, Caroline. Let's go. - All aboard!
Well, here she is, Mrs. Abbot, Natalie. Mrs. Mercer, honey.
Congratulations and bon voyage, dear. So nice having someone new with us.
- Thank you. - Let's get on.
- All aboard! - Can't you hold the train a minute?
- All aboard! - Where's Phil?
- Who? - Your husband, remember?
Oh, Phil. Here he comes. Hurry up, Dumbo.
Think anyone who blows a horn all night oughta have better wind.
Now there's just one more. Oh, Jaynie.
I knew you'd be late.
When my yacht comes in, I'm gonna buy 50 beds and sleep in them all for a year.
We sit here, Ma.
All right.
- Comfortable? - Yes, darling.
You know, Mom, I'm glad we brought the vacuum cleaner.
Here we are. Oh, honey, you know Ben Beck already...
- and this is Mama Beck. - Happy to know you.
- How do you do? - Congratulations, Bill.
- Thanks. - You look like a fine couple.
Congratulations, Bill. And I hope you're as happy as we are.
- Thanks a lot, Ben. - What about you, Sinjin?
When are you going to get married?
What do I want to get married for? I got plenty of girls...
sitting at home tearing their hair out, waiting for me to call.
Well, uh, why don't you call?
I'm sick of those bald-headed dames.
Oh, uh, Bullets.
Get outta here, you muzzler.
Now, Ben.
Oh, Mrs. Abbot, I didn't get a chance to wish you luck out on the platform.
Oh, I'm sorry, honey. This is my boss, Gene Morrison.
Oh, yes, I know Mr. Morrison. How do you do, sir?
Best wishes to you, and here's a little wedding present for you.
Why, thank you. May I open it now?
Sure.
Oh, it's beautiful.
But how did you know we were going to be married?
Oh, I've been listening to Bill play those romantic numbers lately.
- Isn't it lovely, darling? - Yes, they are.
Mine seems to be a little tarnished, Gene.
Well, if they're all alike, no one can say I'm playing any favorites.
Although I have a few.
Oh, Jaynie, I'd like to have you meet my wife. Miss Stevens.
- Are you kidding? - No, really. We just got married.
How do you do, Miss Stevens?
I've heard you sing. I just love your voice.
Thank you. It's nice to have you with us.
Oh, isn't she lovely?
Honey, how would you like a nice hot cup of coffee?
- That would be just grand. - Well, you stay here, and I'll get it for you.
All right.
- Here, let me help you. - You?
- You couldn't help me. - Oh, come on, Jaynie.
- Well, what'll you have, Jaynie? - Orange juice.
Orange juice and two coffees, please.
Yes, I know, I know, Jaynie.
I would have told you about this marriage thing before.
Honest, if I'd known myself.
Well, I knew it was either very sudden, or you're the biggest heel in history.
I guess I'm a heel, all right.
But after all, Jaynie, you and I never were very serious.
Oh, of course not. Don't give it a second thought.
It was nice, but temporary.
You know, that's one of the things I like about you. You look at things like a man.
Oh, don't tell anybody, I'm considered very feminine.
Well, man-to-man, old boy, how did this happen?
Well, I kissed her, strictly in passing.
When the smoke cleared, I was knee-deep in orange blossoms.
Well, I-I hope you don't regret it. I think she's darling.
- Do you really, Jaynie? - Why, sure.
- So do I. - Do you mind if I join you?
I never drink in the morning myself, but if you two are doing it...
I don't know why I shouldn't concur.
Uh, buttermilk, please.
- I think I'll comb the rice out of my hair. - My, my, isn't he devoted.
Have you told your little bride everything?
- Everything? - Oh, well, I mean...
the way you gamble and browse and things.
Why, I wouldn't think of stealing your thunder.
You're gonna want something to talk about.
- I'll bring these back in a minute. - What a dog.
- Uh, Jaynie- - Where'd you get that hat?
You're not gonna give him up, are you?
I haven't the faintest idea of giving him up.
Who's your florist?
- This is so exciting. - I'm sure you're going to enjoy traveling with us.
Enjoy it? Oh, it's going to be wonderful.
After staying in one place all your life, this is awfully thrilling.
Of course it is. It's also new to you now.
I suppose it is pretty much of an old story to you and the others.
No, not exactly that, but, uh...
I guess I've grown to like comforts more than excitement.
I even try to do a little housekeeping and cook for Ben...
whenever we have a kitchen.
That's nice. Of course, it doesn't sound very thrilling.
Mm, maybe not, but, uh...
perhaps it depends on how you look at it.
Well, when you're in love, I don't see that it matters where you live or what you eat.
At first it doesn't, but later on when you come down to earth, I think it does.
Well, here it is, honey, some nice hot coffee.
- I'd better be going. - No, stay there. I'll sit on your lap.
Oh, Bill.
A little on the dull side, but awful nice.
She was just telling me about her husband.
- That's one thing she'll always be talking about. - Like me. Oh.
Oh, Bill, I'm so happy.
Well, well, good evening, darling.
Goodness, we thought you'd gone to bed already.
- Hello. - Hello.
- I'm in a terrible mess. - Already?
I didn't have any intention of getting married. I didn't even plan to stay overnight.
Well, they do sorta go together, don't they?
Well, I haven't a bit of luggage with me.
I- I haven't even got a nightgown.
I was wondering if maybe one of you girls could loan me one.
Well, I'd love to, dear, but you see, all my extras are in the wash.
Uh, Becksie, you must have something she can wear.
- You're always washing things. - Sure.
Here. Will this do?
Yes, of course it'll do, Mrs. Beck. Thank you very much.
- Hello, kids. - Oh, hello, Jaynie.
Uh, our little bride was caught short...
but, uh, Becksie rose to the affair.
Oh, now you're not gonna wear this tonight.
Well, you see, I didn't bring any luggage of my own.
It's all right for Becksie. She's been married quite a while...
but we'll have to do better by you.
Here. Here's a wedding present for you.
Oh! Oh, Jaynie, it's lovely. Thank you so much.
- Glad you like it. - I hope you don't mind, Mrs. Beck.
Not at all. I'd wear those too, except I might catch a cold.
You're very lucky. Jaynie always comes prepared for a honeymoon.
Oh, we single girls have to keep on our toes, you know.
Um, how about that, Jaynie?
I should think a smart girl like you would have fallen in love by this time.
Yes, Jaynie, wasn't there someone not so long ago, that-
Oh, I can't seem to remember. My love life is so unsettled.
Oh, but this was someone very special.
He was tall and good-looking, and he played-
Played halfback for the Chicago Bears.
Yes, I was pretty intense about that for a while...
until I discovered he wore shoulder pads under his suits.
Say, I never dreamed my nightgown could look like that.
Mm, Mr. William Abbot's fast work begins to make sense.
You girls are gonna think I'm a terrible pest...
but with a nightie like this, I'm gonna have to have something to wear over it.
- Why don't you just make a run for it? - I don't suppose you-
Never mind, Becksie. If I'm gonna play the Good Samaritan, I might as well go the limit.
This doesn't look like much help, but you'd be surprised at all the wind it keeps out.
Jaynie, you're such a lamb.
- You're really much too kind. - Oh, don't mention it.
Here, I'll fix it for you.
Say, what am I gonna wear down the aisle?
Oh, Jaynie, I'm sure at least you can make a run for it.
Oh. If you still wanna loan that blanket, I'm your customer.
- Go right ahead. - Thanks.
Thank you so much for everything. Good night.
Well, Jaynie, I never thought you were the kind of a filly to weaken in the stretch.
I don't know what you're talking about, but I'm sure it's indelicate.
Anyone would think that girl was your best friend.
Oh, I think she's going to be one of my very best friends.
And if any of my other best friends make any more of those cracks...
they're gonna find themselves talking through an empty neck.
Well, I was only working for your benefit.
But I don't need your benefits, darling.
And I should think a girl like you would know that anyone can work a lot better...
from a base close to the family heart.
Well, well, naturally. When it comes to stealing a husband...
it's always the wife's best friend who gets him.
Aw, Jaynie, darling, forgive me. You're a genius.
Oh, I'm so glad you approve, Natalie...
but do remember about the empty neck, won't you?
- Number seven my birth, porter? - Yes, sir.
- That's a lucky number. - Who said so?
Gorgeous, you in here?
Yes.
Hey, where'd you get the nightgown?
Well, I didn't have any of my own, soJaynie loaned me this one.
Jaynie? That's very nice of her.
- This stuff is really good. - Do you like it, darling?
You bet. Hey, how'd you ever find this place anyway?
Oh, just by inquiring. By trying to find out...
if there weren't other restaurants to eat at besides all-night chop suey places.
- Well, you certainly found one. - At least it's different.
And I do have you all to myself.
What a dumb trumpet player I turned out to be.
This is the first time I realized how seldom we go out together...
- to dinner or- - Or just to dance.
You do like to dance, don't you?
How do you suppose I met the great Bill Abbot?
That's right. You know, I'm not so sure I remember how to dance.
- Although I've played for thousands, but- - But you could try?
Of course I could, honey.
It's a pretty topsy-turvy life for you, isn't it?
Oh, it was a little bit bewildering the first few days...
but when you love anyone as much as I love you, you're topsy-turvy anyway.
What a lucky mug I am to get a gal like you.
You know, when I think that if that bus driver closed the door a little quicker...
I might not have married you- scares the life out of me.
I was a little scared myself.
You know, I was really afraid that you said just a little bit more than you intended to.
But I wanted to marry you so much, Bill, I didn't care.
You know, for one awful moment, I thought so too...
but it's turned out to be the best thing I ever did.
Gorgeous, I love you.
How much? You'll never know.
Hey, is that the right time? I've only got 20 minutes to get that bus for Iowa City.
- Waitress. - Bill, can't I go with you?
Honey, Gene doesn't see why we should hire an extra bus just to take the women...
when we have to come back here to Des Moines tomorrow night anyway.
But couldn't I go along if you paid my expenses?
Gorgeous, I'd love to take you...
but how do you suppose it would look if you're the only wife with us?
You see that, don't you?
But I'm gonna be awfully lonesome.
Cheer up, honey. You'll love me all the more when I get back. Waitress.
- How do you like that color? - Ooh, that's nice.
I don't like it either.
Sit down. Spread your figure.
Oh, dear.
Well, what's the matter with you?
- Nothing. - Oh, yes, there is.
Well, tonight's the first time since we've been married...
- that Bill and I have been separated. - Oh.
That honeymoon glow will wear off soon enough.
You'll be just as sick of this life as the rest of us.
You know, sometimes I think Caroline's got the right idea.
She never gets bored. She's carrying the torch for somebody new in each town.
Of course, any day she may burn her fingers.
But then look at the fun she's had.
If Caroline wants to live like that, it's up to her.
- It's none of our business. - Of course it isn't.
Heavens, I wouldn't have breathed a word of it if Natalie hadn't already told you.
I like Natalie, but she's awfully vicious.
And smart. Boy, she's got Phil on a leash.
That doesn't stop her from playing "drop the handkerchief" with Caroline's husband.
And Caroline thinks she's putting one over on Buddy. Ha ha.
But Caroline and Natalie...
well, they seem so close.
Well, you gotta get close to somebody to knife 'em, honey.
- Anybody home? - Hello, darling.
- How about a bridge game? - Oh, fine.
- My nails oughta be dry in a minute. - Hello, Connie.
- Connie will make a fourth. - Good.
- We only play for a fortieth. - Oh, Christopher, it's nice being a widow for a change.
I swear, if I'm not tripping over Phil, it's that silly saxophone of his.
Aren't you afraid Phil might get out of line while he's away?
Oh, he'll be flirting with every little filly he sees.
After all, there are only three of these side trips on the tour.
He looks forward to them like a kid does to Christmas.
I think it's good for him to get away. He's such a worm.
Oh, I think men are a scream when they've got a guilty conscience.
Dave is as "solisiful" as he can be for 24 hours.
"Solisiful"? Solicitous, Elsie. Ha ha ha ha.
Now don't get mad, sweetie. You always do that to me.
Phil always brings me roses.
Oh, I wish I were married to a man who brought me diamonds.
All my life I've wanted a necklace with diamonds as big as tiger's teeth.
All my life I've wanted a mink coat.
And what have I got? Skunk.
- You shouldn't talk about your husband like that. - That is very unfunny.
Well, no man can be trusted out of gunshot.
If you wanna be sure of yourself and married to a musician, you gotta sing with the band.
Then you can watch him day and night.
That doesn't doJaynie any good because she hasn't any husband to watch.
Yes, and there's nobody to watch Jaynie with the husbands.
Fortunately, Jaynie's such a nice girl.
My, my, it certainly is Noël Coward-ish the way you and your rival are such pals.
I don't know what you mean, Natalie.
- Oh, dear, I thought you knew. - Seven spades.
- Knew what? - Well, naturally...
I thought when Bill married you, he'd tell you aboutJaynie.
What aboutJaynie?
Now don't pull a faint on me, sweetie. It's no tragedy.
I suppose the only reason Bill didn't say anything...
is because it happened before you came along.
It only lasted a year.
I thought we were gonna play bridge?
I don't see why you don't keep your face shut, Natalie.
Now what have I said? Nothing that everybody else doesn't know.
Yeah, everybody but Connie.
Oh, you're not gonna break up the game.
Excuse me.
I may be bad, but you certainly come from a long line of-
Well, I'll give you one guess.
Hello. What time does the next bus leave for Iowa City?
Oh, not until 9:30?
Well, get me a ticket on it, please.
#When I hear that serenade in blue #
# I'm somewhere in another world #
#Alone with you #
# Sharing all the joys we used to know #
# Many moons #
#Ago #
# Once again your face comes back to me #
#Just like the theme of some forgotten melody #
# In the album of my memory #
# Serenade in blue #
# It seems like only yesterday #
#A small café a crowded floor #
#And as we danced the night away #
# I hear you say forevermore #
#And then the song became a sigh #
# Forevermore became good-bye #
# But you remained in my heart #
# So tell me, darling is there still a spark #
# Or only lonely ashes of the flame #
#We knew #
# Should I go on whistling in the dark #
# Serenade in blue #
# So tell me, darling is there still a spark #
# Or only lonely ashes of the flame #
#We knew #
# Should I go on whistling in the dark #
# Serenade #
# In #
# Blue ##
- Nice going, Jaynie. - Thanks.
Bill, I'm hungry. Would I be playing the game...
if I asked you to take me out and buy me some chop suey?
I guess it's all right. Hey, you don't know a place in town...
where we can get some nice chicken pot pie, do you?
Chicken pot pie? Are you going soft on us?
Okay, chop suey. See you outside.
Tonight was like old times.
Do you realize how long it's been since we've had supper together?
I know exactly. I've been married five weeks.
Is that all? It seemed more like five years.
Well, in another month, Jaynie, you'll forget all about me.
Who was it that wrote that old adage about time healing everything?
Some stupe who never lived, I guess.
Will you open the door for me?
Will you come in, Bill?
Thanks. I don't think I will.
- Are you being noble? - No. I've never been noble in my life.
Well, this is real devotion. And after five whole weeks.
Ridiculous, isn't it? Good night, Jaynie.
Good night, Bill.
Hello?
Long distance?
Oh. Put her on.
Hello? Hello, Jaynie, darling.
- We couldn't wait another minute. What happened? - What'd she say?
Why? Was something supposed to happen?
Oh, Christopher, don't be so "slavoire" faire. We know she's up there.
- Tell us. What happened? - Shut up.
Connie. We saw her get on the bus and leave.
We also checked on the schedule. We know she arrived there half an hour ago.
So you just as well come clean.
Well, what's Connie coming up here f- Say, did you put her up to something?
Y- You mean she's really not there?
Oh, no, no, Jaynie, on my word of honor, we had nothing to do with it.
Well, that is, not on purpose.
Jaynie, it's perfectly awful of you even to suggest that.
No, no, the only thing that happened is...
this evening we were playing bridge, and Elsie made a little slip.
Oh, I didn't either, Jaynie!
Uh, oh, she just happened to let it drop about you and Bill.
We tried most desperate to cover it up, but you know these little minds.
Kind of took it "literarily. " She also took the 9:45 bus.
Well, how perfectly sweet of you, Natalie.
You race to the telephone to warn me a half hour after she's supposed to be here.
Oh, don't apologize, darling. I know your heart's in the right place.
Just the right place for a swift kick!
Hello. Hello. Has the bus come in from Des Moines yet?
No, Miss Stevens.
It's later than usual tonight. It should be here any minute.
Oh, thank you. Uh- Oh, wait a minute.
Give me Room 212, please.
- Hello? - Hello, Bill?
Bill, this is Jaynie. Bill, do you have any money with you?
Well, you can count on me for anything up to three million.
Oh, cash. Well, I got about 40 or 45 dollars.
Oh, no. I only need 30.
Well, could you bring it over right away?
Oh, thanks a million.
Oh, just a minute, Bill.
Oh, Bill, you're an angel. Come in.
- Well, I'd b- - Come on in.
- What's up, Jaynie? - Oh, it's all right now.
I got a long-distance call from my kid brother.
He smashed up Dad's car. Was afraid to go home until he had it fixed.
I- I called you before I realized I could've wired him the money...
and charged it to my account.
Come on and sit down.
- The kid all right? - Oh, sure. Sure.
He needs to have his neck broken, but I couldn't stand it if it happened.
Well, I'm glad it's nothing serious.
Oh, Bill, do you have a cigarette?
There's some behind you on the table.
- Please, sir. - I'm sorry.
- Is Mr. William Abbot registered here? - Yes, ma'am.
- I'm Mrs. Abbot. Would you ring him, please? - Surely.
That's funny. I saw him go up myself not so long ago.
Is Miss Jaynie Stevens here?
Yes, ma'am. Let's see, she's in, uh, 220.
Oh, don't disturb her. It's much too late.
I'll just sit here and wait for Mr. Abbot. He must have stepped out.
I don't think he could have got by me, but... maybe.
You know, it's a funny thing, but I didn't even realize that you had a kid brother.
You never did know very much about my family.
Ours wasn't that kind of romance.
No, now let's not get back into that, Jaynie.
- You're expecting someone? - I- I can't imagine.
Why, Connie!
What are you doing here?
I came here to see you.
To have you tell me that there wasn't anything between you and Jaynie.
Why, Connie, there isn't.
The only reason I'm here is thatJaynie had to wire some money home and wanted a loan from me.
- Well, that's true, Connie. - Don't bother.
Now I know why you were so anxious to come up here without me.
Connie, I told you why you couldn't come.
Who's been telling you things aboutJaynie and me?
Everybody knew about it. I was the only one who didn't.
Oh, Bill, why didn't you tell me about this?
Connie, honest. I swear it was all over before I'd even met you.
It certainly doesn't look like it.
Oh, do you really expect me to believe that...
when I walk in here in the middle of the night and find this?
Perhaps I should overlook it.
Perhaps it's all part of being an orchestra wife.
Well, if that's so, I don't wanna be an orchestra wife.
See, I didn't mind never seeing you, Bill...
or never going anyplace with you...
as long as I felt that you loved me.
But it just isn't worth it when you don't.
Connie!
Pardon me, but do you happen to have a match?
Oh, hello, Connie.
I thought you were somebody else. Excuse me, will you?
Hey! What are you doing in Iowa City?
And what's the idea of sitting on benches at 2:00 in the morning?
Strangers are apt to come up and ask questions.
That wouldn't make any difference.
Say, what's the matter with you?
It's Bill. Jaynie.
Oh, I see.
So that's come to life, huh?
Oh, Sinjin, I never dreamed Bill would do a thing like that to me.
Oh, now look, Connie. You're not playing with dolls anymore.
When you're playing with dolls, you can make things come out the way you want them to.
But when you play with men and women, you can't do that.
- It's too bad, but that's how it is. - That doesn't excuse him!
I won't live that way! I won't be married that way!
There's my bus.
Connie.
Now, I'm the last guy in the world who should tell you this...
but, you know, marriage is a give-and-take proposition.
Remember that, will you?
Oh, pardon me, but do you happen to have a match?
That's curious. I was just gonna ask you if you had one.
Oh, really? Well, curiously enough, I believe I have.
Then give yourself a hotfoot.
Here, I'll take it.
Thank you.
- Hello, Bill. - Hello, Connie.
Say, Bill, about last night.
Let's forget about it, huh?
All right. It's forgotten.
- Do you want some coffee? - No, thanks. I've eaten.
I'm going over and play poker with some of the boys.
Oh, uh, I'll be in Room 312.
You can check on me if you want to.
- May we come in? - Hello.
Connie darling, what a smart outfit that is.
Uh, by the way, dear, where did you go last night?
- We looked everywhere for you. - Did you?
- Did you go to the movies, Connie? - No, I didn't.
It's awfully mysterious.
Must you girls know everything?
Christopher! If we beat around the bush much longer, we're gonna kill it.
Um, uh, Connie darling...
we know you dashed up to Iowa City last night.
Who told you that?
Oh, uh, Elsie managed to worm it out of the room clerk.
I did? You did it yourself.
Natalie, you're always pinning things on me. Last night, you even told Jaynie...
- I was the one who let it slip about her and Bill. - Shut up, you fool.
Did you talk toJaynie last night?
Natalie phoned. She couldn't wait to find out what happened. You hadn't arrived yet.
Then Jaynie knew I was coming up there.
Well, yes. Yes, of course she knew.
Connie dear, why should we have secrets from each other?
We'll find out anyway. You know we aren't interested in your private life...
- so tell us, what happened? - I'll tell you what happened.
When Jaynie knew I was coming up there, she got Bill to come to her room...
just so she could cause trouble between us, and I bit on it!
Why, you good friends of mine nearly wrecked my life!
Come off it. How can you blame us for something Jaynie did?
Blame you? I'm very grateful.
If you hadn't come in here with your tongues hanging out...
I never would have known how Jaynie framed me.
Well, there you are. That's exactly why there should be no secrets.
Oh, I'm very grateful, but don't misunderstand.
I think you're a lot of cats.
- Dangerous cats! - Now, see here, old girl.
But you can just take your claws out of me.
Say, why don't you try tearing each other apart for a change?
You've got a lot of material here-
wonderful material that you've all been overlooking.
Connie, anything I said to you, I said in confidence.
Now, what have you been saying, angel with the dirty tongue?
It was about Caroline, wasn't it, Elsie darling?
Caroline, I don't know what she's talking about. Really, I don't.
Listen here. If you have anything to say about me, you say it to my face.
That might embarrass her. You see, she said that you...
were out carrying the torch for somebody new in every town.
- Well, truth will out. - Then you won't mind that Elsie also told me...
- how you're running around with Caroline's husband. - What's that?
Now, Caroline, you're certainly not gonna take that kind of gossip seriously.
So it's you, is it? I knew Buddy had something on the string.
Buddy and I are just casual friends.
- If you admit that much, it's enough for me. - Why don't you stop?
I wouldn't have your broken-down husband with strawberries and cream.
- I don't even like Buddy. - That wouldn't stop you.
You're so jealous, you see things that don't even exist.
Women get that way when they can't hold their own husbands.
- Just for that, I'm gonna tear your hair out! - Girls, have some poise.
After all, this is a test of your civilization.
Oh, it is, is it?
Why, you slap me-
- Why, you slimy little no-good, I'll break you in half!
Can't you keep anything? Big mouth!
Hello, room service, please.
This is Mrs. William Abbot.
I've got some dirty dishes up here. Come and get 'em.
- And two to you, my friend. - You sure you know what you're doing, Gene?
Listen, I don't tell you how to play trumpet.
Don't tell me how to play poker. Rex?
- That drives me out. - How about you, Buddy?
I'll see ya.
- Why, you night-blooming weasel! - What's this all about?
About your extracurricular hanky-panky with Natalie.
- Natalie? - What do you mean, me and Natalie?
- You're crazy. - Connie just told me all about it.
- Everybody knew about it but me. Even Connie! - Connie?
- Yes. - Caroline, you're wacky. I don't even like Natalie.
You've got your cues mixed. That was her line.
Gene, Buddy's giving his notice right now.
With the kind of female musketeers you have trailing this band...
I wouldn't even trust him to wait around till payday.
- He's through as of now. - Listen, Caroline, he can't do that.
- Oh, he can't, huh? - I got a contract with him.
Yeah? Well, I got a contract with him too.
- Are you coming? - Sorry, Gene.
It's been awful nice playing with you.
- I'm leaving too. - But you can't quit me, Phil.
What do you expect me to do, Gene?
I can't stay on here after what's happened. I've gotta go.
You're not gonna quit just on account of a lot of hysterical talk, are ya?
I've known for a long time this sort of life was no good for Natalie.
- Doesn't the band mean anything to you? - Sure it does.
It means a lot, but my wife means more.
- Sorry. - Whew.
We gotta cancel tonight.
We can't replace these boys on such short notice.
Give my congratulations to that charming bride of yours.
People have been trying to break this band up for years, and it took her to finally do it.
- Maybe I'd better quit too, Gene. - I don't mean that, Bill...
but tell her to keep her mouth shut or something.
I can handle my wife without any advice from you.
Well, handle her then. And any blunt instrument will do it.
Well, you got my two weeks' notice.
Wait, Bill. I just got sore for a second.
The best trumpet man in the business and the best drummer too.
And where am I gonna get a saxophone player that can sing like Phil?
A few minutes ago, we had the best band in the country.
- Now what happens? - You can always give swimming lessons.
Maybe I shouldn't have said that.
Bill, I was just on the verge of calling you and asking you to come back...
but I didn't wanna interrupt your poker party.
Look, I don't know exactly how to begin this...
but I've made an awful mess out of everything.
Oh, please, Bill. I'm terribly sorry about last night.
I know now that there was nothing wrong between you and Jaynie.
That's what I told you last night.
But it wasn't really my fault.
It was Natalie and Elsie and Caroline and their gossip that started it.
From what I've learned just now, you've been spreading a little gossip yourself.
Oh, I just got fed up with them. They had it coming.
The net result is that Phil and Buddy have pulled out of the band.
And I pulled out too.
Oh, Bill, you didn't!
Look, I married you because you were a happy kid-
gay, cute, cheerful- but you've gone neurotic on me.
You trail me around like a house detective.
And then with one flick of your tongue, you bust up our band.
Last night, you said you weren't an orchestra wife, and you hit the nail right on the head.
You aren't, and you never will be!
Well, maybe you're right, Bill, but I've tried.
I don't know. The two things just don't seem to go together.
Look, how can you be a real wife when you're trailing...
from one hotel to another like a lot of gypsies?
When you have breakfast at lunchtime and luncheon...
at dinnertime and dinner at midnight?
Well, this isn't living. It isn't even being married.
What did you expect, a banker? You married a trumpet player.
You knew you weren't getting a suburban home with flowerpots and kitties.
At the time, you seemed to think the idea was pretty glamorous.
At the time, I was crazy. This life's about as glamorous as a gymnasium.
Well, I'll give you a chance to try for something better.
You know that marriage certificate? That little piece of paper with rosebuds on it?
Well, you can pack it with your things. I'm through with it.
So am I! And I'll leave you half the pieces!
No reflection on you, kid, but I guess there's only one Bill Abbot.
It's no good for the rest of you boys either.
Look, Mr. Morrison, we haven't had much rehearsal.
You can't expect us to fit right in without getting set.
I know. I understand.
With any other band, it'd be swell, but... it's just not our type of music.
Okay, boys. We'll try it again tomorrow at 10:00.
What are we gonna do tomorrow, Gene?
Rehearse some more with new men?
I don't know, Sinjin.
Rex, we'd better cancel the rest of this tour.
It's no use. We'll just hurt ourselves playing with new men.
We'll go back to New York and lay off and start the band over again.
If that's the way you want it, Gene, it's all right with me.
That sounds like weeks.
Yeah, will be.
Well, I don't wanna seem disloyal, boss, but alimony won't wait...
and if I miss one week, that ex-wife of mine will slap me right behind bars.
So, if we're heading for a long layoff...
I think I'd better find another spot.
So you're gonna run out just for a few weeks' salary.
As a matter of fact, that isn't the reason at all.
I'll give it to you straight, Gene.
I don't think you're gonna be able to patch up this band.
I don't think I've ever known a drummer who meant more to an outfit than Buddy.
And where are you gonna find another trumpet like Bill Abbot?
As far as sax players go, there isn't one in the business who can sing like Phil.
They gave us our style.
We've lost our key men, Gene.
The heart's been cut right out of us.
You're right, Sinjin.
I don't know what it is that makes a band tick.
I guess it's just playing together.
Either you have it or you don't.
We used to have it.
Now we haven't got it anymore.
Fellas.
I know you've always been as proud of this band as I have.
Pride has kept more good bands together than money.
But I don't want to go on when we can't give them the kind of music they want.
I'd rather stop on a high note.
I know you boys won't have any trouble getting good jobs...
so... let's call the whole thing off.
I just saw Connie Ward down the street!
- Connie? - She's coming this way. Come on!
I think it's very funny she hasn't been to see me.
- Connie darling, how are you? - It's good to see you.
- Come in. Let me buy you a soda. - No, I've got to get home.
Come on, now. The kids are dying to see you.
- Hiya, Connie. - Hello there, Cully.
Hiya, Connie. Where you been keepin' yourself?
Oh, I've had a thousand things to do at home.
- What'll you have, Connie? - Mmm-
- Lemon Coke. - How long are you gonna be here, Connie?
Oh, I don't know. A couple of weeks, I guess.
Gee, I bet you've had fun. It must've been wonderful dancing...
to Gene Morrison's orchestra every night and traveling places and all that.
- Yes, it was. - Was?
- You're going back, aren't you? - Well, yes, of course.
- Where's the band now? - Denver, I think.
You think? Don't you know?
Don't you write to your husband or telephone him?
- He telephones me. - Gee, Connie, I don't see how you could leave him.
- After all, you've been married such a short while. - Oh, I wanted to see Dad.
Your husband's really great on this record, isn't he?
Yes.
- Hey, aren't you gonna finish your Coke? - No, thank you.
- What do you know? - I thought that would flush her out.
Did you see the tears in her eyes when she heard the band?
Oh, Connie?
You want me to drop you off at the house?
Anything I can help you with, Connie?
Oh, Dad!
I just can't stand it without Bill any longer.
It's just too awful being without him.
- What you gonna do? - I don't know, but I've gotta do something.
Don't you worry about it, Connie. We'll figure it out.
Only it'll have to wait till after I deliver Mrs. Martison's baby.
You know, these little fellas are in such a hurry to get into this world...
and have all these troubles, they just won't wait for anything.
Now, now, now, now.
I'll think of something.
Uh, pardon me. Do you happen to have a match? Eh-
Just a minute, Sinjin. I've been looking for you.
Now, now, take it easy, Margie.
I know I'm a couple of days late, but I just put your alimony in the mail.
- When? - Yesterday.
How did you send it, by pony express, like you did the last time?
No, but I sent it to the wrong address so I could have a few days' grace.
- Who's Grace? - You don't understand, Margie.
I've been out of work for a while, but I've got a job now.
If I don't get that check by the end of the week...
you'll be playing piano in the Sing Sing orchestra.
Hey, Sinjin!
Hiya, Bill.
Excuse me, for good. Hiya, Bill.
- How've you been? - Fine. I'm glad to see you.
I've been wondering where you were. Gone with anybody yet?
- Yeah, I'm going to HarryJames. - That's a swell outfit.
- What about you? - I'm going with Thornhill.
- They're coming along. - I wonder what time it is. My watch stopped again.
It's, uh- Oh. My watch is being fixed.
- How about getting together sometime? - All right. Fine.
I'm staying with a friend, so I'd better call you.
- Fine. I'm at the Edison. Good-bye, Sinjin. - So long, kid.
- Good luck. - Thanks.
- Well, I'm going upstairs too. - Fine.
Mezzanine, please.
Oh, by the way, Mr. Wolfington...
weren't you stalking some game when I came along?
I had that specimen stuffed once, right over my fireplace.
Mm-mmm.
Good-bye, old-timer, and good luck.
Look, I'm not trying to follow you, but I get off here too.
This is getting a little awkward after saying good-bye twice.
Maybe if you keep on wishing me luck, I'll have some.
This is where I get off. This time, it's final, Sinjin. Good-bye, and I mean good luck.
- Say, are you going in here? - Yeah, I'm meeting Thornhill.
Well, that's funny. I'm supposed to meetJames here.
You don't suppose the two bands are merging?
- Hey, what's all this? - Hey, fellas, there's Sinjin and Bill.
Why, you sad man!
You poor soul!
- What are you fellas doing here? - We all have appointments.
- James or Thornhill? - Sammy Kaye.
I'm supposed to meet Bob Crosby.
It's beginning to make sense.
- Is it? - Don't you get the angle?
Somebody's trying to take over Gene's band as a unit.
Sent out a bunch of phony telegrams just so we don't get wise to it.
Hey, there's Phil, the last one.
Come on in, Phil. We were expecting you.
- Hiya, Phil. - All right.
Who are you meeting here, Lombardo?
I'm supposed to meet Benny Goodman.
But if Buddy's playing with him, I'm quitting before I ever start.
Don't worry about that. I'm going with Bob Crosby.
If you fellas would really like to know who's raiding Gene's band, take a gander.
- Hiya, fellas! - Hey, Gene!
This is wonderful. I didn't know there was any sentiment left in the band business.
It's swell, and this is a real tribute.
You can dry up those crocodile tears.
- Your trick is pretty obvious. - What are you talking about?
Why, these phony telegrams you used to get us here.
- You mean-You mean, you boys didn't send for me? - What a performance.
Listen, I don't know anything about any telegrams.
- Well, I got one myself. - Yeah, he got a wire from a cooperative band.
They want him to take over as leader.
I didn't like the idea, but here I am.
Then I walked in here, and I saw the whole gang together again, and I thought-
- I think you're lying in your teeth. - What of it?
We're all together again, aren't we? Let's stay together.
We're too good to split up.
I'm sorry, but this hasn't changed anything for me.
I'll never work in a band again as long as Buddy's in it.
That goes double. Caroline would never let me work in this band again.
Thanks for being noble, darling, but, uh, I've changed my mind.
- But, Caroline- - I don't hold a grudge.
Natalie and I are good friends now.
We're even taking lessons from the same English teacher.
- If you think for one minute that I- - Oh, why don't you stop?
I've let you play the outraged husband long enough.
- I won't permit you to- - Look here, Phil, old boy.
Caroline's convinced that was just a lot of stupid gossip.
You're as smart as Caroline, aren't you?
Now, why don't you sit down and take those wings off.
Where's Gene at? Oh!
Oh, Gene darling, you've made me the happiest girl in the world.
When I got that cute little box and read the card, "To baby, from Gene Morrison"...
I- I thought it was just another compact.
But when I saw this, well, you could've pushed me over with a moving van.
Oh, and, Gene, I must thank you for this gorgeous mink coat.
How did you know I always wanted one?
Oh, it was nothing at all. I'm glad you like it.
I had it appraised by a pawnbroker the moment I got it.
You'll never believe how much it cost.
Look, isn't it wonderful? Every pelt is absolutely perfect.
- Did I buy those things? - You oughta know.
- I ought to, but I don't. - What do you care? It did the trick, didn't it?
- Ain't it worth it? - I'll let you know the first of the month.
Boys, we got a chance to open Glen Island Casino on Thursday...
so just for old-time's sake, how about a rehearsal at 2:00?
How do you like this old ham, staggering in here and crying...
when all the time he knew he had an opening set for Thursday night?
But we're all for you, Gene. We'll blow our brains out for you, won't we, fellas?
- Well? - Wonderful.
- We open Thursday night. - Oh, thank goodness!
- I don't know about that. - Why?
You should have seen Gene's face when he found out he'd bought...
a mink coat and a diamond necklace.
He's gonna be awfully happy, though, when he finds out...
- I arranged 90 days' credit for him. - Oh!
Say, there's only one thing though.
In all those wires that we sent out, I didn't notice any forJaynie.
There wasn't any.
Very feminine and very smart.
- Connie? - Mm-hmm?
What about you and Bill?
I- I'm not doing anything about that.
Now, now, now.
No, Sinjin, it was my fault, really, that the band broke up...
and for Bill's sake, I had to get them back together again.
So, now that everything's all right with him...
he'll look me up if he misses me and wants me.
Thanks for helping.
Don't mention it, pigeon.
I was about to draw a bead on you...
but just in time, I remembered who you are.
Uh, reservation for Dr. Ward.
- Dr. Ward. Are you an M.D., sir? - Yes.
- Would you handle an emergency in the bar? - What's wrong?
The cigarette girl has burned her, uh, stomach.
- That's interesting. - Yes, sir. The whole tray blew up.
You go ahead, Dad. I'll be at the table.
Oh, Esher, will you show the young lady to Table 14?
This way, Doctor, please.
Okay, boys, break it up. It's opening night, so let's make it a good one.
- Okay, come on. - All right, Gene.
Hold it a minute, fellas.
What's the matter? Did you see a creditor out there?
- Oh, nothing. Nothing. - Wait a minute. What's out there anyway?
Nothing, I tell ya.
Now, grab ahold of yourself, Bill.
Don't let her get under your skin again.
She broke up the band once. I'm telling you, she's bad medicine.
If you have anything more to do with her, you're crazy.
- I guess you're right. - I guess you're wrong.
Did you fellas ever stop to think...
of who sent those wires out that got this band together again?
- You mean, Connie did that? - With my help.
The mink and diamonds were my idea.
What? Wait, Bill. The show's going on.
So you thought of the mink.
Did you ever hear of rabbits, you rat?
- Oh, gorgeous! - Hello, Bill.
I've only got a minute, but gosh, it's great to see ya.
Sinjin just told me about those telegrams.
- Why didn't you look me up sooner? - Oh, did I look you up?
Well, you're here, aren't you? It's our opening night.
Well, I came with a friend. It was his idea.
Well, I didn't think you'd mind, since we're separated.
What do you mean by "friend"? How much of a friend?
Well, I don't think you'd understand about it, Bill...
because he's a little bit older than I am, but I love him.
That's ridiculous! You love me, even if we did have a little trouble!
Otherwise, you wouldn't have cared what happened to the band!
Well, I thought I owed you that much.
Look here. You're my wife, and you're gonna stay my wife.
Oh, Bill, I-I want you to meet Mr. - Mr. Burns.
A little older?
- This guy's older than Methuselah. - I beg your pardon, young man.
You oughta be ashamed of yourself, chasing a young girl like this.
- This is Mr. Abbot, Horace. - Never mind introducing us.
- I don't want to know him. - Well, how do you like that?
Connie, you can't be serious about this old joe.
You're just doing this because you want to needle me.
This is my table. Will you get out of here?
I'll get out, but not because it's your table.
I've gotta play the show, but I'll be back.
Look, any trouble we've had, we can talk out...
but just set this old coot straight on the whole thing.
But we haven't anything to talk about.
You told me I was a terrible orchestra wife and walked out on me.
Oh, but, gorgeous, I didn't know how much I'd miss you then.
That's changed everything.
Good-bye, Mr. Burns.
Why don't you run along and find someone your own age- about 104!
- Young man- - Burnsie.
Think it's all right?
# Hi there, Tex How's your new romance #
#The one you met at the campus dance #
#Wait until you see her You'll agree #
# My hometown gal's the only one for me #
#A-B-C-D-E-F-G-H #
# I got a gal #
# In Kalamazoo #
# Don't wanna boast but I know she's the toast #
# Of Kalamazoo zoo-zoo-zoo-zoo-zoo #
#Years have gone by #
# My, my, how she grew #
# I liked her looks when I carried her books #
# In Kalamazoo zoo-zoo-zoo-zoo #
# I'm gonna send a wire Hoppin' on a flier #
# Leavin' today #
#Am I dreamin' I can hear her screamin' #
# Hiya, Mr. Jackson #
# Everything's okay A- I-A-M-A-Z-O #
# Oh, what a gal #
#A real pipperoo #
# I'll make my bid for that freckle-faced kid I'm hurryin' to #
# I'm goin' to Michigan to see the sweetest gal #
- # In Kalamazoo # - #Zoo # - #Zoo #
- #Zoo # - #Zoo #
# Kalamazoo #
# K-A#
# I-A-M-A-Z-O-O #
# Kalamazoo #
- # "K" # - # "K" #
- # "A" # - # "A" #
# I-A-M-A-Z-O-O #
# Oh, oh, what a gal #
#A real pipperoo #
# I'll make my bid for that freckle-faced kid I'm hurryin' to #
#We're goin' to Michigan to see the sweetest gal #
# In Kalamazoo #
#Zoo-zoo-zoo-zoo-zoo zoo-zoo-zoo-zoo-zoo #
# Kalamazoo ##
#A-B-C-D-E-F-G-H #
- # I got a gal # - #Where #
- # In Kalamazoo # - # Kalamazoo #
# I don't wanna boast but I know she's the toast #
- # Of Kalamazoo # - #Zoo-zoo-zoo-zoo-zoo #
#Years have gone by #
- # My, my, how she grew # - # Man, did she grew #
# I liked her looks when I carried her books #
- # In Kalamazoo # - #Zoo-zoo-zoo-zoo-zoo #
- # I'm gonna send a wire # - # Hoppin' on a flier #
# Leavin' today #
- #Am I dreamin' # - # I can hear her screamin' Hiya, Mr. Jackson #
- # Everything's okay # - # "A" #
- # "L" # - # "A" #
- # "M" # - # "A" #
- # "Z" # - # "O" #
# Oh, what a gal #
- #A real pipperoo # - # She's a fine chick #
# I'm gonna make my bid for the freckle-faced kid I'm hurryin' to #
# Goin' to Michigan to see the sweetest gal in Kalamazoo ##
- Hey, mousie, what's that, a safety-deposit vault? - I "boined" myself.
The next time you start a bonfire, let me know. We'll roast some marshmallows.
- You sad man.