STORY OF A LOVE AFFAIR
No, it's not the same old story.
Nothing fishy.
This time the lady is faithful.
She was very young here.
She's changed now of course.
She's an elegant society woman.
- Where's she from? - She was born in Rovigo.
Her father was a professor.
They moved to Ferrara when she was 10.
Here she is.
Beautiful woman too.
- What's her name? - Paola Molon was her maiden name.
Paola Molon: 27 years old.
Oh, boy!
Her husband's rolling in it.
Must own 20 companies.
Fontana. Fontana Fabrics.
Cotton and all sorts.
She looks different here. How she changes!
Come in.
Leave it there.
It was these photos that brought Fontana to us.
He found them a month ago and got jealous.
They usually come here tearing their hair out in despair, but not him.
Calm, quiet, a gentleman.
He has this whim to know who he married.
He doesn't know?
They married during the war, in 1943.
Took her to the altar two months after they met.
Now he's curious.
- After seven years? - After seven years.
What she did before, who she knew -
Here's one. Pity it's cut.
Why doesn't he ask her?
Very clever, Carloni.
We have to find out her secrets for him.
So you must go to Ferrara immediately. Today.
That's where she went to school. Start there.
Why not Monday? Milan's playing on Sunday.
That reminds me. The soccer pools!
See this? And you'd keep him waiting?
Okay.
You say start from the school?
That's where girls start growing up.
Mr. Molon's daughter, a young blond.
Brunette.
We get so many girls.
What about the records?
The bombings destroyed everything.
- See that tip? - Nice.
Been doing tips like that for 20 years.
A speciality of this high school.
Ah, our schools.
Oh, sir, we need your photographic memory.
I'm sure you remember a student we had.
- Thanks. - My pleasure.
- Remember Molon? - Paola Molon.
Right.
Eight to 10 years ago.
Pretty girl!
Mind what you say. This is her uncle.
- Nice to meet you. - Nice to meet you too.
I was only going to say she was a lively girl.
Bright, a bit restive.
Played light as a feather, never marked the field.
A feather!
A real feather!
A new boyfriend every month and always the best.
Ah, a boyfriend a month.
Well, at that age -
She'd come here with two girlfriends.
They were inseparable.
It was all boys and parties.
See that portico?
The band played there.
They'd dance, hold treasure hunts -
- Well-to-do girls, eh? - Of course.
Well, sometimes down there on summer nights -
What were her friends' names?
- Giovanna Carlini was one. - Oh, yes, I know her.
- You mean you knew her. - What?
- She died, didn't you know? - Oh, dear, when?
I can't remember exactly.
I'd like to know.
You know who can tell you?
Matilde Galvani, the other one of the three.
She didn't turn out well.
I think she's having a hard time.
And Molon?
She vanished
right after Giovanna died.
I never saw her again.
It was strange the way she left.
Why strange?
Well, I don't know.
It was so sudden.
Excuse me.
Does Mrs. Galvani live here?
You mean Mr. Algardi.
- Is that her husband? - You could call him that.
There, on the left.
Mrs. Matilde Galvani.
- She's out. - I need to see her.
I've come from Naples. May I wait?
Of course, come in.
Waiting is a word I like.
We're all waiting.
I'm Professor Ferri.
Keep it on. It's freezing in here.
Excuse my garb. I was in bed.
I get up late, like Petronius.
Business is bad.
Take a seat.
It's terrible in Naples too.
What can I do for you?
I wanted to ask the lady something
about her friend, Paola Molon.
Do you know her?
Certainly.
Paola's father was a colleague of mine.
When he died last year,
I remembered I had some beautiful letters of his.
A kind of spiritual testament.
His daughter might like them,
if I can find her.
She couldn't care less, believe me.
You're wasting your time.
She lives in Milan.
Her husband's loaded with money:
Fabrics, cottons
and other foolish things invented by the Chinese.
Miss Molon, now Mrs. Fontana, has had it good.
I gather you're not on very good terms with her.
People who are lucky don't deserve it.
Does a fortune ever fall into a hungry man's mouth?
With the soccer pools sometimes.
Did she have any boyfriends here in Ferrara?
A lot.
Only one was serious, as far as I know.
I think I did hear something about a great love.
That's the fate of secrets!
Even you, from Naples, know about it.
So, it was a secret?
Love at first sight.
He was engaged to Giovanna, a friend of hers.
Paola was trying to take him away from her.
Nice of her!
But she didn't succeed.
Two days before the wedding, Giovanna died.
How come Paola didn't marry the boy?
- Was he from here? - Guido?
No, he studied here.
Good-looking boy. I detest good-looking boys.
- Where does he live now? - With his sister, I think.
I never remember addresses. Why should I?
To know where a lawyer or a deputy lives?
Who cares?
Ah, you're here?
This is a colleague of Paola's father.
Paola's father is dead.
I know, I'm looking for his daughter.
Why look for her here?
You were close friends.
Close! She was a friend.
Yes, of course. I was also looking for Miss Carlini,
but I heard about the accident.
- How do you know all this? - I was a friend of her father's.
Where does Guido fit in?
The gentleman mentioned him.
I can't help you. I've lost touch with Paola Molon.
In that case, I'm sorry I disturbed you.
Never mind. Good-bye.
What did you tell him?
Nothing that could hurt your reputation.
Idiot!
I mean about Guido.
I didn't tell him anything.
Why should you care about them?
I didn't tell him anything.
When will you learn to mind your own business?
If it's your business, it's mine too,
since we go on - God knows why--
living under the same roof.
Dear Guido...
- Good night. - Good night.
Here we are.
That conductor's a dream!
What a man!
- Not jealous, Rocchi? - How can you ask a husband -
Speaking of husbands -
It's 12:20.
The show ended earlier than usual tonight.
It's not that. You're still in time, by two seconds.
- To do what? - What a shame!
What's the matter with you?
I'm 27, at this very moment.
I'm so sorry, darling. It's your birthday.
Forgive me, I've had a hell of a day.
- What would you like as a gift? - I'll think about it.
I'm still 26 to the others, mind you.
What shall we do now?
Rigoli is better.
- Let's drop in at the Little Bar. - Yes! Let's go!
What do you say, Paola?
Let's go home.
Sorry, I don't feel like it.
- But what about the others? - I don't feel well.
- What excuse can we make? - That I don't feel well.
Forgive the others for us. Paola's not well.
Sure.
- Good night. - Good night.
I'll call you, Paola.
- You in a bad mood? - No, I told you, I don't feel well.
- Hope it's not a migraine. - Why not?
It reminds me of the play we saw the other night.
"A wife's love for her husband is measured in migraines."
I don't feel like joking, Enrico.
I'll go.
- Did you like the show? - What show?
Tonight's.
Luciani made me a business proposal.
- Let's hear it. - It involves you.
He said, "I'll buy your wife for 300 million lire."
Only 300?
You know what an Eastern prince would have said?
What?
"You can have my wife for free, then I'll kill you."
Maybe he would, but a Milanese industrialist, for free?
He'd say, "Give me the money, you can have her,
then I'll kill you."
He avenges the insult, earns the money
and gets rid of his wife.
You looked great tonight.
All eyes were on you.
As for Rocchi -
You know the secret of staying beautiful?
Sleep, sleep and more sleep.
Good night, then.
Good night.
- Where's the phone? - In there.
Hello, is that you?
Guido!
It's been ages since I heard your voice.
Why at this late hour?
Important for whom?
Of course. Tomorrow, if you like.
I'd like to meet up.
Wherever you like.
No, no, all right.
I'd come now if I could.
Guido!
All right. Good night.
Who taught him to tackle?
What team are they on?
University reserves.
- Do you play too? - I used to.
We won the Games in 1938.
- What position? - Defender.
Look at that scrum!
- Keeping your distance? - I want to look at you.
How do I look?
- You've changed. - For the better or worse?
Let's go.
Did you always train like that?
- Where are we going? - To the lake.
Fine, but don't go fast.
Well, better or worse?
I only caught a glimpse last night.
You're stunning. How did you get like this?
Like what?
I don't know. You have class.
You've changed too. You give compliments now.
It's the first time since I've known you.
One lets oneself go over the years.
I noticed you were different. Your eyes are darker.
Everything about you. You're more mature.
Logical, with what I've been through.
But let's talk about us.
Or rather, about you.
What have you been doing?
Are you married?
Guido.
I'm not criticizing.
Are you happy at least?
You aren't either.
Guido, what is it?
Read this.
"Dear Guido,
A man was here today that I didn't know.
He said he was a friend of Paola's father.
I gather he wanted information about you both.
Use the tip as you like.
But let Paola know in Milan. She's in the directory under Fontana."
"Matilde"?
"The man was about 40, with shifty eyes.
That's what made me suspicious."
What does this mean?
I was hoping you'd have some idea.
You still think about it?
And you?
Guido, they're making inquiries.
Relax, the whole thing is so vague.
It's too soon to worry.
- It's the police! - Of course not.
Why did you come rushing here then?
I was passing through. I was longing for a chance to see you again.
What shall we do?
Nothing, nothing at all.
We have to see if anyone is nosing around.
And we must keep in touch.
You're staying here.
- I should leave. - No, you'd better stay.
I have commitments. I'm a car dealer.
I'm busy. I can only stay a day or two.
What if you went to Ferrara and spoke to Matilde?
She has few scruples, and Ludovico even less.
Maybe she wants money. They're hard up.
Have you seen her since?
She came here once to see me, I forget about what.
She was boring, badly dressed. A stranger.
Then she vanished.
You could go tomorrow. Tonight even.
At least we'd know then.
All right, I will.
- What is it? - It feels strange being here together.
Didn't you think we'd meet again sooner or later?
Yes, but -
- What? - I thought it'd be different.
- In what way? - Nothing. I must go now. It's late.
FALLS DOWN ELEVATOR SHAFT FROM THIRD FLOOR
- I've finished, thanks. - My pleasure.
- Looking for someone? - No, just checking the elevator.
They need a doctor occasionally.
You're telling me! What with power failures
and being out of order, we always end up walking.
The main thing is preventing accidents.
Don't talk about accidents!
Why not?
I work here, for the Carlinis.
They had a girl of 19, an only child.
They lost her, and that thing's to blame.
Really? I'm sorry. Were you here?
Was I! Goodness.
Give me the details. It's better that we know.
It seems like yesterday.
I showed them out. They were all in high spirits.
- Who would have thought - - All who?
Miss Giovanna, her fiance and a friend, Miss Paola.
Laughing and joking.
How did it happen?
Nobody really knows.
- You didn't see it? - No, I'd gone back inside.
- I heard a thud. - A thud?
Then there was a long silence.
Silence? Didn't they shout or ring the bell?
There was nothing, I tell you.
I was here. Look.
Come in. There's no one in.
Then the voices downstairs. Someone saying, "My God!"
I ran out. They were standing there.
Miss Paola was shaking like a leaf.
And he - he was looking at her.
I saw the elevator door open. I immediately realized.
"Why are you standing there?" I said.
"She may still be alive!"
What did he do?
He ran down. She was already dead.
Poor girl!
What about the other one, Miss Paola?
I had to bring her in. She started screaming -
screaming at my young lady's fiance
to go away, that she never wanted to see him again.
It was heartbreaking.
The two girls were very close.
Goodness, what a day!
I'll give the elevator a good look over.
What good is that now?
A call for you from Ferrara, sir.
Hello? Just a minute. Here he is.
Yes.
Your appointment with -
Go ahead.
I'd like to know exactly when you met your wife.
In March 1943.
I can't remember the exact day. Early in the month.
Did she mention at the time a certain Giovanna Carlini?
Carlini.
Didn't she mention her friend who had an accident?
It's rather strange that you should be asking me.
She has never mentioned anyone or anything.
Sorry, I can't help you.
On the contrary, you've been very helpful. Thank you.
March 2, 1943 - Accident takes place March 4 - Paola leaves Ferrara
March 6 or 7 - Paola meets Fontana and hides accident from him - Murder?
I'll be in Milan soon.
Is something wrong?
Good-bye.
He's still away?
What time will he be back?
Please ask him to call me immediately.
He knows.
Thank you. You will tell him?
Bring me some cigarettes.
Your turn.
One spade. Sorry, I meant two hearts.
- Okay. - Two spades.
Okay.
- Four spades. - Yes.
- Okay. - Okay.
Where are you going?
I'm through anyway.
- Here you are, ma'am. - Bring me a martini.
Good girl. Say hello to Mrs. Fontana.
Hello, Mrs. Fontana. What a darling she is!
We'll send her to school soon, to the nuns.
Then she'll travel and learn languages
because we get all sorts of people at our hotel.
Filipinos, Indians. They all speak to her
and she must understand them.
When she's older, we'll find her a nice husband,
a Pomeranian with dark eyes like Cary Grant.
- Luciana phoned me yesterday. - She's getting married.
- What are you giving her? - A gold dressing case, perhaps.
She'd prefer something more original.
She'd like some homing pigeons.
Oh, God!
With a scroll in a tiny gold case tied to their legs,
so they could carry the news around the world.
Listen. Why don't you find them?
But transatlantic flights -
Come on, an old married couple once in a while -
Turn that radio off, please.
Pigeons, not a bad idea!
Must you spoil our bridge?
I'm afraid so. I have to go out.
Take my place, please. I won't be long.
Momi, you do the honors.
If you want to know how many stars there are,
a rough count has been attempted.
I'm talking about the visible stars.
There are less than one would think.
3,000, 3,500 in all.
Paola.
Where are you?
Here. Come here.
So?
- He's still in Ferrara. - Is he a policeman?
Who knows? Ludovico told him about us.
Oh, Guido.
- Then he went to Giovanna's. - I was right then. He is a policeman.
What's going to happen?
Calm down. I haven't finished.
At Giovanna's house he met the maid.
He said he was the elevator maintenance man.
Nonsense, of course, but she told him all about it.
All about what?
- The accident. - You see?
Maybe we're being followed.
Did you check here? Let's get out of here.
He's looking at me.
Because he fancies you.
...you will be able to admire the stars over Milan
as they would look at midnight if it weren't cloudy.
It was like those African nights, watching the stars.
Come on. There's nothing to find out. We're brooding.
What did we do? Nothing.
- That's just it. - I know.
But there's no real danger.
There can't be.
When can I see you?
I really can't stay.
Are you joking? You can't leave me now!
My business.
Business, business!
You're just like Enrico.
The comparison is ironic, the way things stand.
What do you mean?
I mean I have no business.
I'm looking, but I have none.
I earn the little money I have by chance.
This trip to Milan to see you and then to Ferrara has cleaned me out!
I've been a penniless misfit since the end of the war!
You have no money? So what? I have all you want.
- As if I'd take it! - Why not?
Don't be silly. What's a bit of money between us?
- It isn't money that counts. - It's out of the question.
Aren't you handling this for both of us, for me too?
No, Paola, don't insist. I'll manage.
Just a minute.
- You're a car dealer, you said? - Yes.
My husband's giving me one: Some business for you.
Which cars cost the most?
Ferrari, Maserati.
You could get him one.
Act as the agent.
- Maybe you can make something out of it. - But how do we fix it?
We'll go out one night. Better bring a friend to do the talking.
I'd rather Enrico didn't know you.
Oh, God. There's Rocchi!
I'll call you, darling.
So, what's this about?
I have a client who wants a Ferrari or a Maserati.
That idiot Bottini won't give me one.
Bottini does his own deals.
The way you let him down!
I make clear-cut deals.
If it's a sure thing, no wasting time, cash down, and you're not greedy--
Anything else?
I like you! You never change.
- Who is she? - A model.
What would you like?
A kiss, if you don't mind.
Two martinis then.
Right, let's hear his name.
- Will Enrico Fontana do? - The hell it will!
He's loaded. Leave it to me.
It's no good you tugging. What is it?
Mrs. Fontana often buys from us. I know her.
She's beautiful.
- What do I care? - He does.
Why?
I think you like beautiful women.
Okay, but you're not. It's none of your business.
Fine, Fontana suits me.
He wants a Ferrari or a Maserati?
Naturally, what else?
But I think I can find one.
- Is it real gin? - English.
- Your health! - Not mine?
- Sure. - How do we meet Fontana?
I'll bring him to some club.
His wife will introduce you.
Why not bring him to Esperia on Thursday?
It's a benefit evening. I'm modeling.
- Okay? - Okay.
I'll call you to confirm. Give me your number.
"'The universe is nothing but love.' Foscolo."
- Who's that? - A guy without a bean.
Is Saturday night good for you?
- Always the same. - Why do you put up with it?
Maybe I like it. Staying in Milan?
That depends.
On the heart?
Why the heart?
Look over there.
Sit here, Paola.
- Not very nice people. - Look at me, not them.
- What are you having? - A double whiskey.
Don't you ever get tired? Let's sit down.
A bit longer.
- Nice little figure. - You think so?
Let's finish this one.
The last one?
Last dance, last hour, last kiss.
Go on, act romantic!
Are you being mean too?
No, don't worry. Let's go and sit down.
See that lady over there?
She bought that dress from us.
You walk past and say hello.
She'll pretend to know you and you'll mention the car.
But who is she?
Mrs. Fontana, of course!
I get it! Which one is her husband?
She'll introduce you.
- I'll go then. - Hold on a minute.
- What are we waiting for? - Calm.
Sorry to leave you at such a time, but duty calls.
Coming to me of all people with a bogus deal!
- She'd agreed, I tell you! - I can see that.
Ladies and gentlemen, may I have your attention?
Paola, why did you drag us to a place like this?
Well, it's not so bad.
- I like it. - I can believe that!
Let's see what happens.
Be quiet!
The dress will be auctioned to benefit disabled war veterans.
- What about the model? - Just a minute. The outfit first.
120,000.
150,000.
160,000.
170,000.
Come on, gentlemen. Remember it's for charity.
180,000 for the model!
And to think she's mine for free - or nearly.
No distractions. We're at 170,000.
No other offers?
200,000.
The Maserati looks done for.
300,000.
My wife's mad.
Keep it. You can have it.
- I don't get you at times. - You often don't.
- So explain. - A whim.
Can you explain a whim?
What's wrong with you, stupid?
We'd agreed! I've been waiting all night.
The car's outside. I'm going to look like a complete fool!
I don't get you a deal so you can go with tramps!
Wait.
Tell your friend to come to me, I'll talk to him.
I'm sorry.
No, I'm sorry.
I've been a swine.
I don't know what got into me. When I saw you with her,
I just couldn't help it!
- Paola - - Yes?
- I'll give it to my men. - How many copies?
Tired?
Tired of being alone. I've felt alone since then.
Even tonight, in there. You were so far away, I felt lost.
I love you. I always have.
As soon as I saw you again, I realized it was still you.
I could've kissed you there and then, but I didn't.
What a fool! I was waiting for you without knowing it.
I've waited for you for years.
They're coming back.
- I don't care. - They'll see us!
- Don't leave me. - Stop it!
You can be dead before you know it in a car like this.
Did you see that dog?
And did you see how it held the road? What a car!
Seventy-five miles per hour in third, 105 miles per hour in fourth.
Too fast. Unsuitable for a lady.
Why?
I wouldn't rest easy while you were driving it.
There's no need to go so fast.
I usually drive slowly.
Then why do you need a Maserati?
I like it. Didn't you promise me a present?
We'll think about it. Call me in a few days.
I'm leaving tomorrow.
No hurry. Call me when you get back.
Good-bye.
What's your name?
- Conti. - Good-bye.
Don't start. Not all deals come off.
Mine do! It takes a nose to tell good deals from bad.
- Cut it out! - After you bamboozled me?
Who'll give me a Maserati now if I get a client?
Damn, it was 200,000 lire!
These have arrived, ma'am.
Let's guess who sent them. Who do you think?
Mr. Rocchi sent orchids yesterday.
Right, it can't be him.
Maybe that diplomat I always forget to invite.
Enrico? What day is it today?
The Maserati!
The keys to the Maserati!
Gustavo's outside with a new car.
Call my husband.
But it's not the Maserati!
Hello?
- Your husband. - I've gone out.
Good morning, ma'am.
I'll drive myself.
Mrs. Fontana! Did you run up the stairs?
Do you want the manager? I'll call her.
- Good morning, Mrs. Fontana. - Good morning.
Good of you to come. Won't you take a seat?
Paola, dear, how are you?
I saw you arrive. What a pretty suit!
Leopard print does wonders for you.
I see you have a new car.
It certainly can't be said your husband neglects you.
I hear you went to Esperia a few nights ago.
Funny, I thought, the Fontanas in a dive like that.
You must have had fun.
I never have fun at nightclubs.
True.
Too many people. They can see us.
Marvelous, don't you think?
Horrible!
What was the one at Esperia like? All that money.
Did you really give it away?
Have you seen anything you like?
Look at this one. Fringes are all the rage in Paris.
Desse started it and they all followed suit.
Let me have a look at it.
We're back to the '20s look.
Walk around.
It only needs the hip length. Turn back.
You're too young to remember, but Chanel was magnificent!
This one takes your breath away.
It needs someone with your figure, of course.
You'd look a picture in it.
I'll take this. Send it home.
- Without trying it on? - It doesn't matter.
- You're going? - Yes, good-bye.
I must see this.
So uptight. There must be something behind it.
Funny! Such a rush, then she goes on foot.
Nazionali cigarettes were sold out. I got Giubek.
Thank you.
What are you doing?
- I thought you were asleep. - Come here.
I'm looking for matches.
Sit here close to me.
Stay close, like this.
Oh, throw it away.
Now the whole place will catch fire.
Good, we'll die and that's it.
I don't want to die. I want to live with you.
Then let's live!
Why are you like this? What have I done to you?
I'm sorry. I don't know what's wrong with me.
- You've lost an earring. - They're only cheap pearls.
Cheap! How much? 100,000?
I can't remember.
How are we going to find it in this hole?
Are you sure he didn't follow you?
I told you. He's probably still watching the car.
What can he suspect? He has no proof!
If you're angry, it means you're not sure.
Sure of what?
We only had to lift a finger, say a word.
But neither of us did or said anything.
We didn't do it, and you're free.
You're mine.
You're here.
We didn't save her, and now we can love each other.
There's your earring.
Pick it up.
Not even emeralds would budge me.
Guido, I'm so happy.
Me too.
The years I've longed to feel like this.
Seven years.
I've always carried you in me without really knowing,
and I got married to someone else.
But it was you I wanted, only you.
Like when Giovanna stood between us.
- Paola. - Yes, darling?
I think about Giovanna too at times.
I ask myself, why didn't we save her?
It only needed a second or two.
But at that moment we wished her dead.
We really wanted it.
I wonder if that's a crime.
No! We didn't do anything, but there was no crime!
Yet that's what separated us.
Giovanna separated us in life and in death.
Don't brood on it. I love you, I'm yours!
- But you're not! - Why do you say that?
There's someone else, like then!
We're not happy, Paola. That was a lie.
We're not happy and we never will be.
Here's your earring.
Put it on for me.
The worst moment has come.
It's time to get dressed.
I would put it off forever.
They're going?
It's obviously not a Maserati.
Remember the dog?
Yes.
Enrico was scared. He told me so.
It was a close shave.
It's awful how something sudden can change everything.
- Be quiet! - Why?
I know what's on your mind.
- Nothing. - You're afraid to tell me.
- Will you be quiet? - What's wrong with wishful thinking?
You're just too scared to talk about it.
What are you doing?
- Are you insane? - Why do you want to go?
- We can't stay here forever! - Tell me why.
Yes, I want to go!
- Do you want to leave? - I don't know.
No, you can't! It doesn't make sense.
I know you love me. You can't leave me like this!
Guido, you can't! You have no right!
Don't you see where we're heading?
And with that man tailing us, it's no joke!
I can't think straight. I'm sorry.
Your husband phoned. He'll be out for dinner.
Then Countess Violi and Mr. Rocchi, of course.
Why "of course"?
He calls nearly every day.
Silly woman.
Leave me alone.
And bring me an envelope.
Is that you?
Fine ways you have! Thanks for returning my wallet.
Oh, Guido. I knew you wouldn't leave. You couldn't!
You know very well why.
Because it wasn't fair. Tell me you want to see me!
Yes, I do -
to return the 80,000 lire I found in my wallet.
It was the only way to keep you here. Forgive me.
Is that the only reason you phoned?
No. I'd probably have called you anyway.
I got as far as the station, but I couldn't.
Now I really want to see you.
When? Thinking about it will make the time pass.
To think I'd only have to go out into the street--
Hold on. That must be Enrico coming back.
I'll lock the door.
Can you hear me?
- Tomorrow. - Call me at midday on the dot.
I've got to go now.
- What is it? - It's me!
Hold on. I was just falling asleep.
Why did you lock the door?
I'm coming, I'm coming!
Here, to keep you awake.
- Are you drunk? - I'm never drunk.
Just a bit tipsy. Do you mind?
No, but I'm tired.
I've gained control of the hemp mill, and I beat the tax man too!
Fontana's going to get even bigger now.
Let's drink to it. Aren't you pleased when I steamroll over people?
Yes, yes.
But can't we talk about it tomorrow?
I'm not feeling great tonight.
Oh, I still have my nylons on!
- It's hot. - You're not undressing here?
What's so strange? Do you have a migraine?
I'm sleepy.
Just one glass. It'll make you feel better.
No, nighttime drinking ruins your skin.
Why not?
Just because.
Not even if I tell you a secret that concerns you?
What secret?
- Have a sip. - Well?
I've made some inquiries about you.
Some inquiries?
And what did you find out?
Want me to tell you?
Wait a minute.
Why did you come in here?
Look. Enrico's car.
- Did he follow you? - No.
He must be at Franceschi's office on the corner.
How stupid of us to meet here!
- Let's go. You first. - What if he sees me?
Well then?
- Are you going up? - No, thanks. Second floor.
- What is it? - A surprise.
It's my husband who's making the inquiries and having me followed.
- How do you know? - He told me.
- When? - Yesterday.
How come?
He came into my room. He was a bit tipsy.
No, it wasn't like you think.
So it's him. But why?
Jealousy. Some old photos made him curious about my past.
- What did he find out? - Nothing. He just laughed.
Why did he have you followed all the way to Milan then?
Who knows? But he says he's told them to stop.
It'll be easier to meet now.
Well, this jealousy thing - You don't know him.
What do you mean?
- What do you mean? - He's too selfish to leave me alone.
I lied to you just now.
I had to put up with him last night.
Since you're here, I can't bear him near me.
It irritates me the way he goes on like a boss -
his voice, his gestures -
I hate him!
Kiss me - now.
But the police have the means.
What means? The force hasn't changed since your day.
If a suspect escapes in a taxi, we let him go.
We can't afford to chase him.
Last year I spent 500 lire out of my own pocket.
It took me eight months to get a refund.
- On our pay, we can't give the state credit. - That's bad.
What means do the police have?
If we have to go to the local gangland, we go.
We have our informers. We know where to look.
But if it's any other area, who goes?
We don't have the men.
And as for nightclubs,
where do we get the money to pay a hostess?
So what about my man?
I looked for him in the hotels, boarding houses and bars.
I did what I could.
But there are many places where we don't go.
What do you suggest I do?
Wait for a chance. That's the best police method.
Didn't you say a woman's involved? Follow her.
Must go now, sorry. Come and see me.
Who knows, something may turn up.
What is it? Is he impatient?
No, he's changed his mind.
Says drop it if there's nothing.
You've been digging around for over two weeks.
But I'm tailing a woman who never walks anywhere!
Think of something. It's your job.
I know. Why complain after what I've put together?
It's all theory, not fact. Have you found the boy? No!
I'm sure he's in Milan and they're seeing each other.
Wait a few days. I'll have some news.
It's simple. There was something then,
and there must be now.
Ride a tiger and you can't get off.
Hurry up with the report on what you know,
proved or not.
If there's nothing, make it up.
He's not like those types who want to hear they were wrong,
that their wives are angels above suspicion.
Not him!
Either we drop it, or if we go on -
I convinced him, see?
He's jealous again.
We must give him something concrete.
That's what I'm doing. Trust me.
- Call me 20 times a day! - Right!
Good evening!
Good evening. What brings you here?
I came to talk to a young man who lives here.
How kind of you.
Let's get out of here.
What about Valerio?
- Something wrong? - I dumped him.
- Why? - It was no good.
They say wives don't count, but -
- He's married? - He has a child too.
A separation, he said. I've been waiting two years.
He's not in love with his wife. Oh, no!
It was their wedding anniversary the other day.
I'd rather not have known, but he said calmly,
"We'd better not see each other today.
I'm taking Clara to choose her present."
Not even a pretense of tact!
He didn't think of me, that I could be jealous or hurt.
Didn't you wonder why I was flirting with you?
Well, yes.
I was hoping to shake him into saying,
"Hey, what are you playing at?"
But it was also to try and break away.
I love him. I don't know why, but I love him.
I can't bear him betraying me, not even with his wife.
Especially with his wife.
The thought drives me mad.
Marital ties are much too strong.
No love or passion can hold out.
Forgive me for telling you all this.
It comes naturally with you.
It's good talking to you, even though you're not married.
You're not married too, by any chance?
- Do you rent rooms in this place? - Yes.
I'm looking for Garroni.
He's just gone out. He's always out, luckily.
Give me a soda.
- Why "luckily"? - I don't like him.
Give me that soda.
- You crying? - I'm a bundle of nerves.
Something else upset you?
Stop it, Guido. I can't take any more.
Take your coat off.
A bit of peace and joy with nothing to worry about.
Wouldn't it be nice?
- Let's go away. - Where to?
I don't know. Abroad, to another city.
And then?
We'll be together. I'll work, I'll grow rich.
- How? - Somehow.
Why shouldn't I make it? I'll do anything.
Like what? Make do with rented rooms?
- But it's for you. - And cheap cigarettes?
Do you enjoy humiliating me?
Don't get me wrong. I only meant your romanticism.
Drive isn't enough. You need to have what it takes.
I'd feel like a new man with you.
With me, you'd come to a standstill.
Why?
Money is everything in love too.
We leave, we get somewhere, then what?
We come back, and it's all over.
Dear Guido, these things have to be said.
Money is stupid. Between you and Enrico, it chooses him.
He who loves no one, who buys everything,
including me.
He always knows what to do.
While you seem so strong, but you're weak.
- You're a dear. - So?
I don't know.
Let me think how it'd be if we were free.
Don't you ever think, deep down, about what you'd like?
Think if he died.
Listen, Paola.
- I was just saying - - I won't think about it.
Just think. Bang...
and it's all over.
Isn't that easier?
You think it's easy to shoot a man?
You fought in the war.
It's all a matter of the right opportunity.
Just a matter of the right opportunity.
But with so many people who hate him -
Paola!
Can't you even take a joke?
Hold me, darling!
- Haven't seen you for a while. - I've had a lot to do recently.
Don't spoil the party.
- Don't worry. He'll come. - It's all arranged.
- You actually arranged something? - Everyone's coming to my place tonight.
The money I spend -
- With what it costs you! - You've made up your mind?
If she has -
- It has to be tonight? - Of course.
Your board meetings again?
No, two Dutchmen at the factory.
- Bring me a tulip! - Get rid of them.
Can't, it's too important.
It must be fun to have so much to do.
Give me a mushroom sandwich.
Is it tasty?
She's tasty!
You could join us later.
Okay, 10:30 to 11:00.
Want me to pick you up?
No, I'll think about my Dutchmen on the way.
We're counting on you!
- Are you bringing them? - God forbid! They're heavy going.
So it's decided.
- Shall we go? - Okay.
I want to invite a crowd.
Vicky, will you take me tonight?
What do the dice say?
They say yes.
Excuse me a minute while I phone the dressmaker.
Need me to do anything?
No. Thank you, dear.
Garroni, please.
It's me.
This is it. Let's meet at 4:00.
You see?
He has to slow down.
I'll stand on the bank.
The car will be 10 feet away.
Can't miss.
Yes, can't miss.
The air smells good here.
It's the country already.
What about those people?
There won't be anyone around in two hours' time.
- Guido. - Yes?
Are you scared?
No, why?
Guido, why don't we forget about it?
You said we can't go on like this.
Yes, but -
But?
You sounded so sad just now.
I don't like this idea.
Don't do it then.
You know very well I will.
- For you. - For me?
The other time was for me too?
I couldn't have done it alone.
It's my fault then.
Why didn't you say something when you saw the elevator wasn't there?
You saw it. She didn't!
She was looking at us, and you kept quiet.
Was it for me you kept quiet?
It suited you too!
You killed her! You killed her!
Is that what you think when you hold me?
I don't.
Yet you were there too. You kept quiet too.
And we'll be together tonight too.
- May I? - Come in.
Here's a broth to bring the dead back to life.
You'll feel fine tomorrow.
You're a treasure, Anna.
If I was at the bottom of a bar,
some willing diver would have to bring me up.
An elderly diver who's easy to please.
If anyone asks for me, I'm ill.
Including the Lady of the Camellias?
There's a gentleman who -
Been waiting long?
Over an hour.
- I'm sorry. - I'm used to it. Take your time.
- Can you leave me the report? - I've finished.
I'll be at the agency if you need me.
Good. Give him 30,000 lire.
Tell your boss to send me the bill.
Always at your command.
What's going on tonight?
- A party. - There must be at least 30 cars.
The assistant is here.
Don't bother me!
...of Giovanna Carlini's death.
Having ascertained the intimacy between Garroni and the subject,
we feel we should suspend the investigation
until we receive further instructions from you.
Yes, sir?
Oh, God. God!
"Enrico Fontana.
2 Melegani Street."
Just look at that!
- What shall we do? - Call the police.
Let's go. Where's the nearest phone?
- Good evening. - Good evening.
Does Mr. Enrico Fontana live here?
He's out. We're expecting him. His wife's here.
We must speak to her.
Call her.
- Where's Mrs. Fontana? - In her room.
Call her.
She'll be right here.
They came to arrest me! A jeep! A police jeep!
I had to get away. We must get away!
- Calm down. - I can't calm down until we're safe!
But where -where can we go?
Maybe they haven't been to your place.
How did you do it?
- Let's go. I have a taxi! - Be quiet! Come here.
Where are you taking me? It's not my fault.
Why did they come to me and not to you?
- You did it! - Did what?
It's his fault he died, do you understand?
It's his own fault!
He was going at top speed,
the car swerved and ran off the road.
He fell into the canal.
When I got there, they had already pulled him out.
He had a hole in his throat, as if he'd been shot.
And now?
And now...
Now we can't continue.
Why not?
Can't you sense why?
Wait. You'll call me?
- Tomorrow morning. - As soon as you wake up?
Yes.
We love each other, don't we? Nothing else matters.
Tomorrow then?
Yes.
Take me to the station.