Naomi Murdoch, that's me.
Not quit at the bottom of the bill yet,
and not quite at the end of my rope, but I can't say that I'm making
an impression on audiences these days
not that I ever made much.
Now with the season over and the heat of the summer coming,
the air in these theaters is even staler than usual.
Brother, there's not much to look forward to.
I guess some people would say I asked for it.
Boy! That audience is like ice out there tonight.
These Hicks wouldn't get off their hands for Lillian Russell.
Here's some mail for you.
I started out holding the hoops for Miller's wonder dogs,
- I can always go back to it. - For Pete's sake, Naomi?
You're too classy for vaudeville you ought to go back to legit.
- They love me in Detroit. - There's real prestige in legit.
New parts all the time..
You don't have to worry about getting old.
What's the matter honey? You look like you saw a ghost.
- No. - Bad news?
I think it's a laugh, that's all.
- "Dearest mother." - I told you it was a laugh.
"I don't know if you ever think of me but I think of you.
I'm graduating from high school this year
and 'miin the senior play on may 20th.
I suppose this doesn't sound like much to a great star like you."
- Go ahead. - "I know your career
- must keep you busy." - Lt gets funnier, doesn't it?
"There's only one present I would like
and that is to have you there. Your adoring, Lily."
I got three, two girls and a boy. I walked out on them, husband too.
In 1900 it wasn't going to be a happy new year for me,
it was going to be a happy new century.
Not much to be proud of is it?
And you haven't seen them in all these years?
I had a reason, lots of reasons.
Should have seen me trying to be the wife of a school teacher
in the big town of riverdale, wi. Don't think the town approved of me.
After a while he didn't either.
He always said I'd wind up disgracing him and the kids.
- I guess maybe I did. - Another man?
I pulled out before there was a scandal that would have...
I guess I did the right thing.
There's someone back there who lets me know how they're doing.
She says they're doing just fine.
It'd sure be fun to go up there and see how they all look.
The catch is they'd see me, the great big star.
I'm supposed to be in Europe doing Shakespeare.
- That so? - That's my story. I'm stuck with it.
It'll be great going back. You got to, Naomi.
- Oh belle... - The kid's counting on it.
They don't have to know how you're doing.
Let your hair go back to natural,
act real classy. You'd be their idea of a perfect lady
- and a big star. - Belle, I've done it on the stage.
- Do you need a few bucks? - No, I got enough for a trip.
What I saved to see me through the summer.
- I could get a couple outfits and... - Yeah.
Sure. What do I need with a bank account?
Something will turn up before August, it always does.
- Sure. - Oh belle! It would be fun.
- Yeah. - I'd never thought I'd see
that town of riverdale, Wisconsin again.
What a burg.
I'll bet it hasn't changed a bit.
The population must still be under 5,000.
Not a new building on the town's square since I left,
and where a buggy ride in the country is a big thrill.
Same solid white frame houses in the residential district,
the lawns, the husbands are so proud of
and those carriage steps. Oh golly.
I wonder if the old granite one in front of the house is still there
with Murdoch chiseled in it.
- See you later, Russ. - What's your hurry?
I've got so many things to take care of today.
- Lily's play... - Oh for Pete's sake...
And the party tonight.
And poor dad's so busy with graduation week
he's no help, and if I didn't look after dad,
- and Ted and Lily, who would? - I want you to look after me too.
I'm sorry, Russ, if I don't meet with your approval.
Wait a minute Joyce. This is me, your fiancé, remember?
- Don't go away peeved. - "M not peeved.
Well alright then.
Shall we scandalize the neighbors.
Oh, Russ! Really!
Thanks for bringing me home. You're welcome.
- Lily! - You can find me, dear sister
in the scullery!
Lily, come upstairs so that I can finish your costume.
Everything's here Lena. Paper baskets are on top.
- So be careful. - Alright Joyce.
It's not a costume. It's a gown and is it a Daisy.
And just put one pecan and one almond in each basket.
Then you can fill them up with the cheap ones.
Lily, how many times have I said one doesn't eat honey without bread?
- What if one doesn't care for bread? - That's not the point.
- Is Ted home? - Uptown someplace.
You shouldn't have your feet up. It's not ladylike.
- Anna held even smokes cigars. - You're not Anna held yet young lady.
Did you buy the sash? Well of course I did.
Would I forget the most important accessory of all?
It's really divine, isn'tit Lena?
- The most heavenly cyclamen. - Pink.
- Come on, we've got a lot to do. - I'll be there in just a minute.
Lena, is it all going to be wasted?
What's wasted?
This evening, my performance.
- All my preparations... - Lily, we sent the letter
to that agency in Chicago. That's all we could do.
If your mother doesn't come, don't be too disappointed.
What else could I be? If she were here tonight,
my performance would be like Mr. halley's comet
streaking across the Autumn sky.
But if she wouldn't come back for this, she'll never come back.
Maybe she will, maybe she won't. Who can figure her?
Why should she come back? She was smart to get out.
Maybe she was smart. Maybe she wasn't at all.
And I'm just like her. I won't stay put here either.
Either.
Who could endure this silly town with all the silly people?
- Thank you. - Not you Lena. You understand.
Lily, are you coming? I'll be there in a minute I said!
They'll not bury me in this provincial burg.
Some day, somehow, Lily Murdoch will give her talent to the world.
Miss Harper told daddy I was the best drama student
at riverdale high.
Comeiin.
I'm sorry. You're busy. Sara...
- Come in. We're all through. - If I know col. Underwood,
- he's just beginning. - Just you don't begin teaching
that progressive nonsense they're spouting down in Washington.
You see? The principal either gets his knuckles rapped
for being too progressive or for not being modern enough.
I hope the other councilmen don't give me as much trouble as you.
Just satisfy me Henry, and you'll find being superintendent of schools
in this county is no trouble at all.
Happy to recommend you. You've done a fine job.
- Thank you, colonel. - Goodbye. Goodbye miss Harper.
Goodbye col. Underwood.
Henry
- finally after all these years. - After all these years.
You know what a help you've been, don't you Sara?
I'm very glad if I have been.
If you ever decide to stop school teaching,
you're going to make someone a very wonderful wife.
Thank you, Henry.
Well...
You will be on time tonight? The curtain can't go up
- until you arrive. - I think we can trust Joyce
to see that Ted and I are politely early and properly combed.
Riverdale! Next stop! Riverdale! Riverdale!
Riverdale! Next stop! Riverdale!
What a spiffy!
- Someone meeting you ma'am? - No, I'm not expected.
- Stopping at hathaway's hotel? - Yes, the hotel. Still only one?
Say! That's Naomi. Naomi Murdoch!
Giddy up!
Hot choo! Won't the ladies be talking tonight.
Hey. I think I'll take a walk.
- Hot petootie! - Listen Ted, you snookered me
into a bad bet. You'll never miss.
I'll be buying root beers the rest of the summer.
- You teached me too good, Dutch. - Dutch, by jiminy, I don't mind
waiting in myself and figuring how much I owe,
but would it be too much trouble for you to take my money?
Target practice is more important than profits oley.
I'll put the guns back.
That's 93 cents.
A dollar bill won't go nowhere these days.
- Here you are. - Thank you.
- Hey, oley. - Hello.
- Thanks a lot, oley. - So long, Dutch.
Hi clem. Railroad get along without you?
Been a coon's age Dutch, I don't see you around.
I still hunt, still fish, the store's still open.
But what I mean is
I don't see you riding out by the lake the way you used to.
You do any riding at all now Dutch?
- Ted! - Yes, Dutch.
New case of shells in the back.
Do me a favor and bring 'em in? Sure.
What's in your craw, clem?
That lady you used to meet up with out riding
I seen her just now down at the depot.
She's back. I just thought you might like to know.
I don't know what you're talking about, clem.
She still looks pretty speedy, Dutch.
Who's speedy, Dutch? You got a new girl?
No. Here. I'll take the shells.
No, it's sort of an old girl. Clem!
You know Ted Murdoch, don't you? His father's the principal.
- Hello. - Hello.
Train's in, Ted.
Run down to the post office and see if there's anything for me, ok?
Sure. See you.
Say. What you gonna do, Dutch?
What you gonna do?
Come on, Nellie, come on.
Excuse me for being late. Got to go wash my hands.
Lily, we'll have to be there early.
I have most of your things ready.
The only thing I'm concerned about is that second act change.
- I'll get Nancy to help me. - I'm sure she will dear.
- Lily, you just picked at your food. - I"m not hungry.
If you're nervous, perhaps a glass of warm milk will...
Nervous about acting in a play? Oh daddy!
You're just burned up because you can't play the main part
and play the piano and pull up the curtain too.
- Daddy make him shut up. - Lena!
Teddy is here and you forgot to serve the beans.
Ted, that wasn't very polite, was it son?
- No, sir. - Now go have your dinner.
Excuse me but with the show and the party,
I think my head is screwed on backwards.
I was ready to pour the good soup right down the sink.
Hello, Lena.
Naomi!
Mother!
Oh mother you came! You got the letter. You came.
- "M Lily. - Of course you are and so pretty.
Am I what you expected?
What a dramatic entrance you made.
How stunning you look, doesn't she, daddy?
- Naomi. - Hello, Henry.
- This is quite a surprise. - Do you think I could stay away
after I got that wonderful letter?
- What letter? - I didn't want to bother you.
I see. At any rate it was nice of you to come.
- I hope you enjoy the play. - Thank you, Henry.
Ted, you were too young to remember your mother.
Naomi, this is Ted.
Hello, Ted, it's wonderful to see you.
- How do you do? - And, Joyce.
- Oh what a difference darling. - I should think so.
- There's someone I don't know. - That's Nellie.
Dutch says she can be the best hunting dog in these parts.
- Dutch? - Dutch heinemann,
he owns the hunting and fishing store. He's the greatest.
It's so good to see you all.
And Lily, I know you're going to be a great actress.
Wait until you see my gown. I practically designed it myself.
Wait until you see the one I've got at the hotel
- for you tonight. - I've got to see it right away.
Is it from New York? I can't wait until after.
Ted, go get mother's suitcase. You can change here.
Could I Henry?
If you two would like.
- Wonderful! Wonderful! - Lily, it's time you got ready.
I have to do your collar and press your sash.
- There's plenty of time. - Listen baby,
the first thing an actress has to learn is
- the show must go on. - Alright. I'll be upstairs.
I'm so glad that you're going to see me as
baroness barclay tonight. It's a wonderful part and in the...
- Lily! - Wait until you see the second act.
- Well, we don't have to stand. - Did you have your supper yet?
I'm starved. I was too excited to think about food.
Then have something. You'll have to excuse me. I have to get dressed.
Come in the kitchen like the old days.
Gosh! What do you know?
Gosh.
Oh Lena, Lena!
I never let myself hope even.
I was really scared for a minute.
- It will be alright. - Thanks for writing, for everything.
- Well somebody got to. - Lena, you baked!
Now I know I'm really hungry.
The kitchen hasn't changed, same old rocker and
and the matchbox.
- I could kick it, remember? - Could you now?
- I'm not as young as I was. - Who is? But could you?
Well I...
- One, two... - Three!
- Joyce. - Would you press the petticoat?
I have to get Lily ready.
- Joyce takes care of the house. - Only since I've had to.
Well you seem to be thriving on it.
Why did you come back? Didn't you make us
- unhappy enough before? - Joyce, please!
Am I supposed to admire her for what she did?
As far as I'm concerned, we aren't your family
and you're not our mother.
Hello?
Of course. I don't see what else we can do.
Do you, Sara?
Yes. A lot has happened since this afternoon.
Certainly. Goodbye.
Honestly, Henry, I thought you knew about the letter.
If I'd dreamed how Joyce felt I'd..
- Only Joyce? - Thank you for not making a scene.
How could I in front of Lily? She idolizes you.
Joyce is different, more like me.
I doubt she'll forgive years of desertion fro minutes of charm.
I'm sorry. Good thing I'm leaving right after the play.
Honestly, why did you come back? You hate this town.
I told you. Lily. It was an impulse. I couldn't help it.
Are you telling me that after all these years
you were suddenly seized with an irresistible impulse?
Don't you think I wanted to see the children before?
- You never tried. - Nobody asked me.
- Would it have mattered? - Naomi! Your supper is ready.
Don't let it get cold.
I'm sorry.
I don't think I've shouted since you left.
- You could always do that to me. - You hate me this much?
I'm thinking of the children. Our lives are settled now.
We've lived down the talk, the scandal.
If you've lived it down it won't start up again.
- It won't? - I'll go to the play alone.
- You needn't see me again. - No. We'll go together.
We'll make it seem perfectly normal, then you'll come back to the party
and you can catch the 12:15 for Chicago.
That suits me.
One other thing. That was Sara on the telephone.
- Sara? - Sara Harper,
the drama teacher. They're putting additional chairs in.
It seems there's a sudden demand for seats.
At least Lily will have a good house.
And you'll be the center of attention.
I'll make a good impression, Henry. That's all you care about.
Appearances and what other people will think.
I'm not the girl who used to embarrass you, not anymore.
I won't laugh too loud or make jokes or speak to the riff raff
- I knew before I married you. - That's very good of you.
Henry, I don't mean to quarrel.
I hoped after all this time we could be friends.
You did?
Couldn't we just for tonight, for Lily's sake?
Couldn't we make it nice?
It didn't used to be all fights. We did have fun at the start.
We paid a pretty heavy price for that fun.
Naomi!
Good evening.
Good evening, Mrs. Murdoch. Should be an interesting evening.
- We're in time. She's not here yet. - That way Mr. atkins.
- Good evening, Mrs. Phillips. - Good evening.
Have you seen her, Sara? Your seat is over here.
Russ, the whole town is here. What difference does it make?
- Sara, have you heard. - I think everybody has.
I've never seen such a crowd.
Believe me, dad didn't have anything to do with this.
- It was Lily, she wrote a letter... - Hello, miss Harper.
- Hello, Russ. - Come on honey.
See, dad? We made it.
- Mrs. Underwood, col. Underwood. - Joyce.
Is your father coming, Joyce?
Yes. Yes, of course.
Here she comes.
Is that her papa? She's looks wonderful.
- Good evening, Henry. - Hello, Sara.
- Naomi, this is miss Harper. - Hello. Henry has mentioned you.
- How do you do Mrs... - Call me Naomi.
Naomi.
- Your seats are in the front row. - Thank you.
Where's Ted? Looking after the buggy.
- Colonel Underwood. - Henry.
- Mrs. Underwood. - Good evening.
Important man? Very.
Sara is very nice. Very.
Surprising she's never married.
I suppose she has her reasons.
Don't wait too long, Henry.
She looks fabulous. Here, take a look.
In your places everyone. First act. Come on.
Get ready for your entrance. Now, Lily. Not anymore of that.
Remember in the third act, only a stage kiss.
Good luck, everyone!
Come clean now, John. What is on your mind?
Exactly who is the baroness barclay?
All evening I couldn't take my eyes off of her.
I would say the baroness barclay
is the most fascinating woman I've ever met.
Really? Why, here comes the baroness now.
- Why aren't you with the ladies? - Why should I be
when you're much more interesting? Besides, Mr. Lexington,
we haven't much time. Time? We?
Dick, would you think me rude if...
No, not rude, just sensible. And I should say rather fortunate.
No, wait. Please stay, lord Bakersfield.
- If you could enlighten me. - Mr. Lexington.
It was just an amateurish high school play
until Lily came on stage. She looked beautiful.
She had youth, charm and poise.
Everything else seemed to melt away.
And for me, there was only Lily.
It was almost magical. I couldn't take my eyes away.
She knew how to hold her head, use her hands.
She was delightful.
And with training she could develop into an actress.
When she said she knew what she was doing up there on the stage,
she was right.
Say, some crowd inside.
- You ought to get a cut, clem. - You should what the barber...
- Dutch, what are you doing here? - Ticket's alright, isn't it?
- Sure. - Then tear it.
The first act's almost over.
You leave me no alternative, I must go to the governor.
Mr. Lexington, you may do anything you wish.
Threats will do you no good
because I shall never reveal what is locked in my heart.
It is a sacred trust.
- Am I never to... - See you.
See you again? Never again?
Call me shameful for this if you want to, John,
but the real shame would be in hiding what I feel.
I love you, John, that's all there is to it.
And if loving you is a crime
I'm willing to pay the penalty.
Haven't I said it was just a stage kiss!
Lily Murdoch! Lily Murdoch!
For all of us, thank you.
For myself, if you think my performance was good
I want to tell you why. It's because my mother,
the famous actress, Naomi Murdoch, is in the audience.
Anything I've done tonight, I've done for her.
- Well, it's quite a play. - Lily sure acted grown up.
Henry I wouldn't have missed this for anything in the world.
I'm going back and see her.
Lily!
Lily, you were perfect. You were absolutely marvelous.
I love you. Sara, it was wonderful.
You were magnificent everyone. I'll see you at the party later.
Mother, this is the best night of my life.
Isn't she heavenly?
Russ.
Thank you.
Lily, the party's a dud but you're sure a peacharino.
Tell it to the marines.
Hey put it where the flies won't get it.
You want to do the bunny hug with somebody who can?
Thanks, Lily. Watch out for him, he's a lemon from lemonsville.
23 skidoo.
I'm glad you rescued me. His dancing's as bad as his acting.
Here, Chuck, put this one on next, will you?
- Two step slide? - The hottest thing from New York,
but an apple knocker like you wouldn't know that.
We don't have to be left out do we, Mrs. Murdoch?
Joyce didn't tell me she had such an attractive mother.
May I borrow your fellow, Joyce. I certainly approve of him.
That's very good of you.
Why, Philip. What's a matter? Don't you bunny hug?
I've given that up sir. I'll be a freshman at Yale.
Put a wreath on your nose, your dead from the neck up.
Zowie, what a cake!
- Please ask Lily to come see it. - Lily, come take a look!
- Chocolate buttered cream? - Lily!
It's heavenly, Lena. You didn't tell me.
You don't know everything that goes on in my kitchen.
The best party we Eve had. That Naomi.
You know what, Peterson? Know what I thought
- when she walked in today? - No.
About you and me. Maybe if she...
Maybe if the children don't need me around anymore,
finally you and me...
- You know what I mean? - No.
Lena! I - yes!
And we'll need some more sandwich plates.
- I'll take the cake up to Ted. - Don't fret about anything tonight.
Peterson and me can take care of everything.
Go out there. Enjoy the party. Dance with your fiancé.
- She's dancing with him right now. - Well go have fun
with somebody else. What should I do?
Dance gaily with some 16 year old
while she's taking over Russ? I'm not that good at pretending.
Peterson, would you mind chopping me a chunk of ice
- out on the porch? - No.
Joyce, you suppose that everything for her tonight
- is laughing and having fun? - I"m not like her.
What's wrong with being like her?
At least she has sense enough to enjoy a party
when there's a party. She doesn't let some tiny, little,
eensy beensy whatever spoil her evening
like some people I could mention.
Spoil my evening? Oh good heavens.
- You take Ted's cake. - That's my girl.
Peterson, put that back in the tub.
We don't need any ice. No?
Joyce, I know you're only trying to make him jealous
but Russ has been asking for you and I'm all worn out.
Thank you, Mrs. Murdoch. Come on, honey.
Well the feeling is very familiar.
You know when you smile, Joyce, you're as pretty as a...
Oh, Russ!
- Henry. - Sara, I'm glad you've come.
I had a great deal to do at the auditorium.
This sounds like quite a party. You can hear it down the block.
- Sara, it's so good of you to come. - Thank you.
I want to tell you again what a really fine job you did
- on the play tonight. - Thank you very much.
I think we owe a great deal to our leading lady.
- No, she owes a great deal to you. - That's very nice of you.
I'm sure Sara would like some punch. Excuse us.
Mrs. Murdoch, what's the chances...?
I mean, it'd be a pleasure... May I dance with you?
I'd love to.
- Here you are. - Thank you.
- She's very charming. - Yes, she can even charm
a Yale man.
After our London success, we toured the provinces
and then went to France.
Paris, London... Must be exciting.
- When were you in Europe? - Three years ago.
We were so popular I didn't think we'd ever get home.
- Where'd Lily go? - Ever have a yen to go riding?
- Sara. - I used to if the horse was good.
Well I've got a Lulu.
I'll take you and Joyce riding tomorrow.
- How about it? - Thank you,
- but I'm leaving tonight. - You're hard to keep track of.
Am I Chuck? Then I'm willing to pay the penalty.
- Alright. - But not now.
Mrs. Murdoch, were you ever in a senior play?
I was never in the senior class.
- Mother do a scene for us. - Yes, please.
That's very flattering but there's nothing I can do
besides it's late, I must catch... Just one scene.
There is time, please.
- I don't know what I could do. - I've got an idea.
On now, Lily.
Do something from this, mother. I've always loved it
- and it's daddy's favorite too. - Browning.
I... I better turn down the lights.
"How do I love thee? Let me count the ways.
I love thee to the depth, and breadth and height
my soul can reach when feeling
out of sight for the ends of being and ideal grace.
I love thee to the level of every day's most quiet need
by sun and candlelight.
I love thee freely as men strive for right.
I love thee purely as they turn from praise.
I love thee with the passion to put to use
in my old griefs and with my childhood's faith.
I love thee with a love I seemed to lose with my lost saints.
I love thee with the breath, smiles and tears of all my life.
And if god chooses,
I shall but love thee better after death."
Mother, how heavenly. You were wonderful.
Thank you darling. That's music to my ears.
Peterson, everything's in the bag. The mister is going to...
- You and me can get married. - No.
Don't you like it? Then move. Say more.
Say like she does. "I love thee, Lena.
I love thee." Put your arms
around my neck and say it. Say it!
I love...
No.
Would you do something else? Yes, mother. Please do.
You don't know what this means to an actress. I'd love to but
I believe in "always leave them wanting more."
Thanks again. I have to change, to catch the train.
Mrs. Murdoch, you'll not catch any train tonight
even if Mr. Murdoch rushed you down
- in his Stanley steamer. - But it's only...
You can't go by that old clock. It's slow.
Is it? It's never been slow before.
Henry, I'm sorry. I guess I got carried away.
I guess we both did.
- What time is the train tomorrow? - You can stay for graduation.
You've got to. It'll be wonderful to have you with us, won't it?
Of course.
We'll be glad to have you here.
Good night, hortense. Good night, John.
It was a wonderful party. As usual, I'm the last to leave.
- Good night, Sara. - Good night.
- I'm glad you were here, Sara. - Good night, Henry.
- Good night. - Good night.
Naomi, you don't have to do that.
- I'm just touching up a little. - Let Lena do it in the morning.
After all this isn't your...
No. I shouldn't be taking over, should 1?
I'm sorry. It just seemed the natural thing to do.
This house, late at night after all the guest have gone...
Does this still go over there?
Didn't the tomlins give this to us for our anniversary?
How can everything seem the same to you?
I'm sorry about missing the train. Good night, Henry.
Naomi, why did you leave me? All these years I wanted to know
I promised myself I'd never ask but...
Why ask then?
I didn't know we'd find ourselves in the same house together.
I thought you were coming up. I've taken my things
- to Lily's room. - Thank you, Joyce. Good night.
Good night.
Good night, dad. Will you turn off the lights?
- Mother! - Come in, angel.
I thought maybe I'd be too early.
No, I can sleep through anything but not a nest full of birds.
Why all this fancy service?
I brought everything Lena said you used to like.
- Fried ham and four minute eggs. - Baby, I have to watch my figure.
I never take anything but coffee. Well, this morning I'll sin.
Flowers! You're giving me the real start treatment.
When I've been with you a while
- I'll know all the other things. - What are you talking about?
Don't you know? I'm going with you.
I want to get out of here just as much as you did.
And with the great Naomi Murdoch introducing me,
- may career is set. - You just can't plan this fast
let me give it to you straight...
I wasn't any good in the play? Be frank with me. Be cruel.
- You don't think I can act. - Baby, you were fine.
You can act, probably better than I ever could.
Mother! Then we can do it, can't we?
Lily. Lily. When you
wrote that letter, did you count on me taking you with me?
I always wanted to be with you, darling.
- Always. - Lily!
- Yes? - You have to go to miss mcintyre.
For caeser's sake! My graduation dress! I forgot!
- Hi, Ted. - Hi.
Grab these, will you?
Joyce up? Sure.
- Hey, Joyce! - Russ!
I'll be an actress in New York! Mother's taking me with her!
I feel sorry for Sara bernhardt.
Joyce!
Hello, handsome. What are you doing here?
Aren't you ready? I came to take the Murdoch girls riding.
You really meant it. Which one is mine?
She's a beauty. I wish I could go.
- You're not gonna back out? - I didn't pack any riding clothes.
How'd I know I'd meet a dashing young horseman.
There's clothes of yours in the attic. I think for riding too.
It can't be true. We're saved handsome.
Ask Lena for a cup of coffee. We'll be down in a few shakes.
I hope it doesn't smell too much of mothballs.
- If it does you can wear mine. - But you're going with us.
No. It's no fun for Russ to ride with me.
- I'm a dub on a horse. - He asked you, didn't he?
Maybe he wanted a chaperon when riding out with my glamorous mother.
- Wait a minute, Joyce. - I know it's not serious,
but you can't help amusing yourself with every attractive man in sight
- can you? - Suppose so. What will you do?
- Nothing. What can I do? - I thought you liked Russ.
- I love him, I guess. - But you wouldn't fight for him.
Afraid of my competition? Afraid?
We're a bit disappoint to each other. You got a mother with no principles
I got a daughter with no guts.
Don't be a fool, Joyce, put on your riding habit.
Mom.
I was wondering, if you're gonna be here a little while,
- maybe we could go fishing. - Ted that would be fun.
There's a wonderful spot down by the falls.
Look at the bass I caught last year.
Dutch heinemann, that's him. He helped me a little.
- We'll go when we can find time. - If you really like fishing?
- Oh I love it. - Gosh. I knew you would.
I'll get everything ready. Try to make it tomorrow.
Come on, SWAT her a couple of times. You can't fall off old Polly.
She's as safe as a pug in a stable.
You'd be a good rider if you learned to relax.
It's beautiful here, isn't it? I've never seen this spot.
You ever been here before, Mrs. Murdoch?
Yes. I used to come here once in a while.
It would be a wonderful spot for canoeing, wouldn't it, Russ?
- It's so lovely. - Run along you two.
- I think I'll sit this one out. - No, we don't want to leave y...
Alright. Let's go, Russ. Mind if I try your horse?
I'm getting a little tired of safe old Polly.
- I don't know. He's frisky. - So takes guts to ride him?
- No. I... - Help me up, Russ.
Alright.
Come on, Russ!
I was beginning to think you'd never show up.
I was riding with Joyce and her Beau. You must have seen them.
You knew I'd be here.
- Still as conceited as ever. - Still as crazy about you.
You know I wanted to see you ever since I heard you were back?
Last night I even waited outside the house.
- I figured you'd go to the hotel. - No fooling.
Old friends like us have a lot to remember together.
Old friends?
I was back at the house this morning, up on the hill.
I almost gave the old signal. Remember?
Two shots, then one.
I used to hear them in my sleep.
You've never forgotten, not for a minute.
Honey, where have you been? Do you know what you did to me?
- Why did you leave me? - If I had stayed, the way it was
how much longer could we have moments,
just seeing each other out here?
I was afraid I'd want more. And in this town, I wasn't
- going to do that to my family. - Who's more important?
- Them or me? - I should have figured that out.
Who cares? You're back and we're together, the two of us.
I'm leaving tomorrow night. I'll be here tomorrow afternoon.
Oh we can't...
We can't go back.
Who says we can't?
You want to go back andsodol. Sodol.
Goodbye, Dutch.
I'll be here.
Two shots, then one and I'll be here.
- Saral - Hello, Mrs. Murdoch. Naomi.
How nice of you to come and see me.
Well I'm afraid I came to ask a favor
about the graduation tomorrow.
You see we always have a little entertainment
- and I thought perhaps... - That I might appear?
It would be such a favor to me. And you recite so beautifully.
That's flattering but, why do you need me?
You must have plenty corn fed talent to fill the bill,
someone the good people of this town could applaud.
That's just why. I mean...
- It would be such an opportunity. - Opportunity?
If the nicer people of this town could see you as the children did,
I know they'd be impressed. They couldn't help be and...
- And maybe they might accept me. - I didn't mean...
- You of all people. - I'm very fond of your husband.
- That's what I meant. - And I want him to be happy.
Isn't he going to be? You're the woman he needs.
But you're the woman he wants.
I'm a realist, Naomi.
Henry and I... it wasn't love.
Not on his part anyway.
We had things in common and we drifted together.
- Perhaps if you hadn't come back... - I'm leaving, remember?
Wouldn't make any difference now. I lost him the minute he saw you.
And then there are the children. Ted's taken to you without question.
He's such a fine, open hearted boy.
- And Lily loves you. - And Joyce doesn't and...
There are things you don't know. You mean well but forget it.
Are you afraid, Naomi?
- Sara! - Hello, Joyce.
Your mother and I have been having the nicest talk.
You look as though you've been having a good time.
I have.
I took the Liberty of glancing through your Shakespeare.
I marked some of the passages that I thought might do.
- If you change your mind... - I'll let you know.
- Goodbye, Naomi. Goodbye, Joyce. - Goodbye.
You were gone for so long I was afraid something might have happened.
- No, we were having a wonderful time. - Your hair look nice that way.
Thank you. Russ thinks so too,
- but I have to fix it before... - Could I help?
I'm very good at that sort of thing.
- I can manage. - I thought we could talk.
I frankly don't want to have a sweet mother daughter chat
- with you while you comb me out. - I guess that's telling me.
I'm sorry. I don't mean to be harsh but...
I'm not thinking of myself, not even of Lily when
she tells me silly plans about going on stage with you.
But I am thinking of daddy.
He's unhappy.
I know he is, ever since you came back.
He spent nearly the whole night pacing the floor. He...
You trying to tell me it'd be better if I left right away?
Yes. I really think it would.
Naomi, about the menu for tonight.
I think you'd like my wienerschnitzel with carrots...
It was perfectly delicious.
It's better if you soak it in vinegar all night.
- Lena, you can clear. - Hi, Russ.
- Hi, Ted. - Good evening, Russ.
- Like a cup of coffee? - Piece of pie?
No thanks Joyce will be...
- Say! - Well you're looking lovely tonight.
- Thank you. - Don't keep her out too late.
- I wouldn't put it in writing. - Have a good time.
- Good night. - Good night.
- Don't be too late, Ted. - I won't.
Tonight, Naomi, I'm afraid I've got to finish that annual chore
of signing diplomas.
Henry, I thought it over and I think it'd be best if
I left on the late train tonight.
You can't do that. Sara tells me you're set
- for the graduation ceremony. - That doesn't make any difference.
- Joyce said something this afternoon... - Joyce. Look.
Joyce hasn't planned on having you here
so she's finding it difficult to adjust to something new.
- Like her father, I guess. - No, Henry. This is best.
It's only one more day.
Frankly, I'd be disappointed if you weren't there tomorrow.
You would? Mother!
- Should we tell him now? - Tell me what?
I want you to be calm and reasonable about this.
I'll try not to be impetuous. Mother and I have the most
- wonderful plan... - Lily, I never said...
She's taking me to New York with her, introduce me
to all the important people in the theater and get me...
- I never promised... - She's saying that because
- she thinks you'll be mad. - It's a terrible life for a girl.
Believe me. I know. Naomi.
Maybe it's better if Lily does go now
before she has any Bridges to burn.
I learned a long time ago you can't keep people from
doing what they have to do.
It's up to your mother. If she's willing...
Daddy, thank you! Thank you! Did you hear that? I knew he would.
- Lena, Lena! - Lily, Lily!
Lena, Lena!
I'm going to New York! I'm gonna be an actress!
Mr. Peterson, my mother is taking me to New York!
- When did all this happen? - Just now. Can you believe it?
Peterson.
You know what?
If she goes and leaves the mister
maybe we still have to wait a little longer.
- I hate to go in. - Why should you go in?
- On a night like this? - Because it's so late.
It can't be. I've hardly talked to you.
Who's fault is that? Yours.
- A time and place for everything. - You are so right.
- You know I love that lake? - Yes.
- And I love canoeing with you? - Yes.
- And I love...? - Yes.
And that's the way I always want to think of you.
Don't get up for me.
That you, Ted?
Little late, isn't it? Lily is already in bed.
I guess so, but it's not a school night.
- Good night. - Ted.
Ted, would you like me to come and tuck you into bed?
Gosh, I don't get tucked in bed anymore.
- No, of course not. Good night. - Good night. 'Night, dad.
Good night son.
You forget what you've missed.
You're lucky. I remember it.
Now that I'm here, I remember too.
But you've had both, Naomi: Career, success in
the great big outside world and marriage
- to a little man like me. - I don't know, Henry.
Maybe I never had a career. Maybe I never knew the man.
It makes me wonder.
Wonder?
We all want things we don't have.
It must have been difficult for you being married to me.
You were so young. The things you wanted...
I was crazy to ever think a girl like you
could settle into my dull routine.
I know I wasn't patient.
I worried too much about what people would say.
And I worried too little.
- You had your compensations. - Compensations?
No. I don't think so.
You don't know how unimportant success is
until you've had it
or what a home means until you've lost it.
I have missed you, Henry, you and the children.
I've missed you too, Naomi, when I wasn't hating you.
I didn't think you missed me at all.
For a long time I hoped you'd come back.
It's too late. I don't know.
I don't know.
Where is everybody?
Big day like today and everybody is lazy.
- Good morning, Lena. - Good morning.
Isn't it a wonderful morning? A wonderful world?
It's about time.
- Good morning, Theodore. - Hi, baroness.
"I'd say the baroness barclay was the most fascinating woman
- 've met..." - Where are you going, Ted?
I got sense enough not to waste the whole day around here.
- It's way past noon now. - Hi, Ted.
- Good morning, Lena. - Good morning, Joyce.
Lily, oh it's a beautiful day.
Well, you must have had a good time last night.
I did. I plead guilty. A grand time.
You should spend more time in canoes.
- Good morning, Lena. - Good morning.
- Lily, Joyce. - Good morning.
It smells wonderful. I'm going to stuff myself.
- I would have brought you a tray. - Never slept better in my life.
Even those birds couldn't wake me.
- Good morning, Lena. - Good morning, sir.
- Children. - Good morning.
- Good morning, Naomi. - Good morning, Henry.
- I hope you slept well. - I believe the expression is
"like a top". Oris it "like a log"?
Like a log.
- Ted finished already? - We've got a lot to do uptown
and there isn't much time.
I think we'll find there is plenty of time.
Your mother may stay on for a while.
Wonderful! For how long? Now we can have some clothes made.
I was wondering what I could wear in New York.
- Lily, I may not go to New York. - Not going?
We may be able to persuade you mother to say a long time.
- Even... - But you promised?
I never promised. I told you I would try.
What did you say to her? It was you, wasn't it?
And after you gave me permission.
- I thought you were honest. - Lily!
How can you give up everything that matters?
You let us keep us both in this stuffy old town
just because he's stuffy and old fashioned himself.
- Lily! I'll talk to her. - Not now, Joyce.
I won't have her speak to you like that.
- She never did anything... - Joyce!
Just sit down and have your breakfast.
I'm sorry. I don't think I'm hungry.
Some mornings it just doesn't pay to start anything.
Well, at least breakfast started out to be happy.
Don't worry about the girls.
It's something new for them. They'll get over it.
Lily yes, but Joyce...
Joyce will be happy if I am.
And I am.
Stop worrying about the girls.
Naomi, don't go!
Don't go. You can't. Not now.
I'm going to stop it once and for all.
Mom! Mom! Up here!
Come on, Nellie, she's probably looking for us.
Yes. You're here now. I'm here for the last time.
- We're through, Dutch. - Through? Us?
- You'll stay and not see me? - I never want to see you.
Don't ever bother me again.
The reason you'd stay is for me and you know it.
I know you inside and out.
You couldn't stand it without me. You came back for me.
I love Henry. I love him and the children,
and I'll not throw it away again.
You think I'd let you stay here without me?
Knowing your in that house? Watching those lights go out?
- You think I could stand that? - Please let me alone, Dutch.
Don't ruin everything again.
I would have been alright before if not for you.
- Now I'd have my home and my kids. - I don't care about your home.
I care about you and me!
I treated you special but I've been too gentle with you.
Don't touch me!
Mom!
No!
- Dutch! - Ted, hurry and get some help.
No wait. See if we can get him in the buggy.
Dutch, can you...? Get his other arm.
Careful now.
So the cards would read: Hans Peterson is proud
to announce his marriage to Lena svensen.
- Lena Maria svensen. - Lena Maria svensen.
It's Dutch heinemann!
Cancel my order.
I'll be right back, Philip. I'm stepping over to the pharmacy.
Mrs. tomlin, how is...?
Ted, we've never had a real talk.
You've got to let me tell you what happened.
It was accident, a horrible accident. I tripped and...
Why'd you go see him?
- Mrs. Murdoch. - Doctor, how is he?
He's unconscious, but I think we can pull him through.
We've taken the slug out. Sonny, why don't you go home?
Come on, Nellie.
I'm an old man I say what I think. I'm the doctor and know riverdale.
As soon as I make my report Dutch shot by a woman...
- But I told you it was an accident. - Look, Mrs. Murdoch,
it makes no difference what you tell me. Maybe it was an accident
but do you think that will make any difference.
Already those maggots have got it all over town
the whole story in the worst way.
The oldest and the nastiest story in the world.
- What can I do? - You can go back to Chicago
for Henry's sake and the children's.
Funny, isn't it? How things work out.
Mom. She's coming out now!
- What happened? - She shot Dutch heinemann.
Comeiin.
Hi, Russ. Then after the graduation march,
I thought maybe you'd give your speech to the class.
Pardon me, miss Harper. Mr. Murdoch, could I see you alone?
Well...
Sure, Russ.
I have things to do in the auditorium.
I'll be back.
What is it, Russ? Naomi shot Dutch heinemann.
She took him to doc tomlin. I just heard about it.
I don't know how badly he's hurt, but...
Listen to me, Henry. Everything's at stake, your career.
You've got to act right away and I hope you know what to do.
This time it's evident what kind of a woman she is.
Colonel Underwood, please leave me alone.
Alright, Henry.
Dad. I've got to go over to Joyce.
- I've got to stay with her. - You're coming with me.
- Sara. - Yes, colonel Underwood.
What's the matter, Russ? You look so...
Sara, Mrs. Murdoch shot Dutch heinemann.
No...
You can't go.
What will we all do? You'll all do a lot better.
You are not quitting?
When you're licked, you've got to quit.
Lena...
I will fix you something to take on the train.
- Is mother upstairs? - Yes.
Lena, isn't it terrible?
Mother. I just heard!
I don't care what you did, you can count on me.
So you're leaving. It's the least I can do.
- I'm sorry I was a disappointment. - But now we can leave together
- the way we planned. - For heaven's sake, Lily.
How can you be so selfish when there's dad to think about?
- Don't you know what it means? - Of course I think of daddy.
But I've always wanted to go and now mother will be even more famous.
Famous? So you want to be famous like Naomi Murdoch?
Of course I do.
Well let me tell you just how famous that really is.
I didn't think you fell for that line I was handing out
for the yokels, but if you did.
- Line? - After all a girl has her pride.
But there doesn't seem to be much demand for the classics now
and none at all for me. Mother...
I'd like to leave you thinking I was up there in lights but...
I've got enough on my conscious without...
You think all you have to do is get on that train and
when you get off you'll be in the star's dressing room.
The theater is a tough jungle kid.
I've got no glory, no glamour, and bruises on my illusions.
And I can't complain. I never starved.
I was a stooge for a trained seal. I sold corsets
when times were bad. I live in cheap hotels
and con the hookers so they won't know how bad I need money.
I can name a pawn shop in every town on the circuit.
Next season if I'm lucky, I'll do a tired single.
It's not very dignified, in fact it's rather vulgar.
And I'll be billed below the dog acts.
But if you want to come join me...
Lily!
I'd love to have you with me.
- Here's sandwiches and fruit. - Thank you. Lena, please put
- these cases on the front porch? - Of course I will.
Ted, can I talk to you for a while?
Ted, today you found out that people you want
to be perfect, aren't perfect.
Sometimes people do bad things
or what seem like bad things. That doesn't always mean
that they are bad or that they want to be.
They can hurt others awfully, who they wouldn't hurt for the world.
The way you were hurt today.
Try not to hate me too much. Forget me if you want to but...
If you go on hating me, you'll be hurt for always.
Ted, I couldn't bear it.
From here on, when you you'll be hurt more and more
when everything in life seems wrong
and you think nobody understands you or loves you
just remember, your mother loves you
with all her heart
even if she hasn't been very good at proving it to you.
Please, stay.
I wish I could. I can't.
- I"m not crying. - No, of course you're not.
Of course you're not.
Doc.
- What's gonna happen? - Everything will be alright.
Just one more.
- Mr. Murdoch, you mustn't... - Henry, now listen to me.
- He's a sick man... - Leave us alone.
I ought to kill you, Dutch.
You must feel just great lying there laughing
- your head off at me. - Yeah. Sure.
It was easy to take her away, wasn't it? Anytime you wanted to.
All you had to do was give the signal.
First two shots and then one.
I finally figured it out.
Now you've picked up where you left off from the good old days?
I congratulate you both
on getting what you wanted.
What I wanted?
That looks like it, don't it?
I guess that's from a hot kiss
- instead of a whip? - A whip?
All in remembrance of the good old days?
Why'd you let us go ahead in the old days if you knew?
You lost her then and you should have lost her this time.
I still don't know what she sees in you.
Naomi?
What's the matter? Don't you believe me school teacher?
Well I'm on the level with you. She wants you. Alright.
You two can have each other. A great pair.
You and Naomi Murdoch are my idea of
just nothing.
Now I suppose she's spreading around town
she had to plug me to stop me from going after her.
Dad! I was so worried. I came after you to
find out if you were alright.
The doctor will be right in.
The first time he's ever let a patient get excited.
What's there to get excited about.
We can get through everything at the school alright dad.
I even got Lily to put on a new dress.
And she went out with her head up.
But she really broke Lily's heart.
Don't worry about Lily. She's still a child.
It's awful for us, but we're still together.
- We can live it down. - Be quiet.
Excuse me.
If I'd been stupid
I guess it's not surprising you have too.
If she made Lily hate her it's because she wants to keep
Lily from making the same mistakes that she made.
If she wants to leave us, it's because she loves us so much
and she thinks we'll be happier without her.
She loves us?
Yes. She loves me.
And she loves Lily, and she loves Ted,
and she loves you.
Joyce.
You're so much like me. Don't be.
You'll lose what you want most of all in the world.
You go ahead honey.
Tell Sara she'll have to get someone else to deliver the address.
I have something more important to do.
Naomi.
You shouldn't be here. They expect you at the auditorium.
- You think I'd be anywhere else? - I've got to catch the train.
- Naomi, I'm asking you to stay. - You don't know what you're saying.
I can't. Not now. This is best for everybody.
No. It's not.
- If you'd only forgive me... - Forgive you?
Years ago I was a coward. I lost you for it.
That was one mistake. Maybe I was entitled to it.
But if you make the same mistake twice
- you're really a fool. - No, believe me. It's the only way.
You couldn't stay in this town. These people would...
They'll have us to face,
the two of us together.
Naomi, some people just grow old and others grow up.
It's time you and I decided
what kind of husband and wife we're going to be.
One who has faith in his wife, believes her, loves her.
Oh, Henry.
The girls will be home soon. We can wait for them.