62

CONTINUED (7)

73

Uncle Willie (to Liz)
Not completely: just a border-line case.

Margaret
Please come -- everybody -- Dinah!

Dinah
I can tell there's something in the air, because
I'm being taken away --

Margaret drags her out.

Uncle Willie
(gulping down his drink and offering his
arm to Liz)
Will you come with me, Miss Imbrie?

Liz
Thank you, Mr. --
(she hesitates)

I remember the face but --

Tracy.

Uncle Willie (with a smile)

Liz
That's right.

Seth
And you are Miss Imbrie of Spy Magazine.

Liz
Oh - you know.

Mike
I was going to tell you.

Uncle Willie
Well, let's all have a good time tonight, anyway.

He starts out, but hesitates long enough
in passing, to pinch Liz.

Liz (jumping)
Ouch!

Uncle Willie smiles triumphantly and
exits.

Seth
(at her side)
What was it?

Liz (rather grimly)
It's hard to believe - but, you know, I felt
exactly as if I'd been pinched!

CONTINUED:

62

74

CONTINUED (8)

She and Seth exit. Mike remains with Tracy.

Mike
You're not even dressed -

Tracy
You go ahead. I'll follow with George -

Mike
What's the matter with Tracy?

Tracy
You tell me, will you?

Mike
(pouring himself another drink and looking at her intently)
Darned if I know. I'd like to.

Tracy
Well, if you happen to find out --

Mike
I'll tell you. Sure.

Tracy
And remember, Mike -- "with the rich and
mighty"...

Mike
"...always a little patience." Yes, I will.

Tracy
Do that. Please do.

Mike exits. Tracy stands for a second, then pours herself a glass of champagne and drinks. As she starts to pour a second glass...

FADE OUT.

Philadelphia

Story
Adds

7-3-40

63
63-X1

75

OUT

FADE IN:

EXT. UNCLE WILLIE'S HOUSE - NIGHT
TERRACE

In the b.g., windows to the ballroom in
which the guests are dancing, and from
which the sound of the music comes. A
few couples are dancing outside on the
terrace, among them being Tracy and George.

At one end of the terrace stands an outdoor
bar, behind which two or three bartenders
are serving champagne to the guests.

64

CLOSER SHOT - TRACY AND GEORGE

THE CAMERA FOLLOWING THEM AS THEY DANCE.
Tracy's eyes are closed and she dances
with that certain relaxed lightness that
comes in champagne bottles.

George
Do you know what time it is?

Tracy opens her eyes and smiles at him.

George
It's after four.

Tracy (dreamily)
In China it's much later. In China we'd be
married by now.

She moves her body a little closer to
his, but he doesn't relax from his stern
mood. This disappoints Tracy temporarily.

Tracy
Or perhaps it's only yesterday there.

George
I'm going home after this dance.

Tracy
There was a Chinese poet who drowned while trying
to kiss the moon in the river. He was drunk.

George (disapprovingly)
I would say as much.

Tracy
But he wrote beautiful poetry.

CONTINUED:

64

76

CONTINUED (2)

Mike comes up and cuts in.

Mike
Macaulay Connor of South Bend reporting for duty.

George
Sorry, Connor. We're going home.

Mike
You can't do that to me -- an old friend of Junius.

Tracy (with feeling)
Oh, I wish Junius were here.

She and Mike start to dance away together.

Mike
Yeah? Why is that?

George (sharply)
Tracy!

Tracy and Mike continue their dancing position although they do not move away. She turns her face to George inquiringly.

George
I'll get your wraps.

He turns and exits. Tracy and Mike dance.

Mike
Well, as I was saying, let's have another drink. Or will Kittredge spank?

Tracy (smiling)
That's not what you were saying.

Mike
Wasn't I?
(he considers)
Oh yes. Why do you wish your brother was here? Does he like Kittredge?

Tracy
Everybody likes Kittredge.

Mike gives her a look.

Mike
Except maybe C.K. Dexter-Haven.

Tracy stops dancing and takes his hand.

Tracy
Come, Connor. Let's have more wine.

CONTINUED:

Philadelphia
Story
Change
7-5-40

64

CONTINUED (3)

77

As they start toward the bar, Margaret comes
out onto the terrace from the house.

Tracy (happily)

Mother!

(she runs and throws her arms around her)

I thought you'd gone home hours ago.

Margaret

I know I should have, but I've been having such a
good time.

Tracy

With father?

Margaret nods. After a moment, Tracy kisses
her again affectionately.

Tracy

You are happy now, aren't you, Mother? And you
will forgive me, won't you?

Margaret

Forgive you?

Tracy

I haven't been worth much as a daughter, have I?
But I'll be a good wife, won't I? I won't let any
of my daughters be like me, will I?

Margaret (puzzled)

Darling, what's got into you?

Tracy

I don't know. I guess it's just that--a lot of
things I always thought were terribly important I
find now are -- and the other way around, and oh,
what the dickens.

(once more she takes Mike's hand)

Connor, you're thirsty. And the night is young.

As she starts to pull Mike toward the bar,
George appears carrying Tracy's wrap.

George (holding up the wrap)

Here we are, dear.

Tracy

We're going to have one more drink.

George

Not you, I'm afraid, dear.

Tracy

Why should you be afraid, George? Wine never
affects me -- not in the slightest.

CONTINUED:

64

CONTINUED (4)

78

### Margaret

What she really wants, George, is another dance
with you.

She makes signs to George that that would
be a wise thing for him to do.

### George

Very well.

(throwing her wrap over a chair)

### Tracy (suddenly flaring up)

Well look, George - if it's that much of a chore -

### Mike

(offering to dance with her)

Not for me it isn't.

### George

Oh no you don't, Connor. You've been entirely too
attentive as it is.

### Tracy

George, please.

(she smiles appeasingly)

What will the neighbors think?

(she offers to dance with him and he
accepts)

### George

But no more after this.

Tracy kisses him on the cheek as they dance
away. Mike looks at Margaret.

### Margaret (smiling rather fatuously)

The course of true love.

### Mike

Gathers no moss.

At that moment he is struck violently in the
rear by Uncle Willie, who is cavorting around
with Liz. Mike is propelled several yards
toward the bar.

### Uncle Willie (gaily)

Out of the way, young man!

Liz gives Mike a despairing glance, pleading
that he cut in, but Mike turns to the bar.

### The Bartender

Champagne, sir?

CONTINUED:

80

65-X1

CONTINUED (2)

John (quite naturally bewildered)
What cab, sir?

Mike
The little cab that isn't there. Take me to the
Dexter Haven mansion.

John
Mr. Haven?

Mike (climbing into the car)
Yes -- front entrance!

As the car drives away -

DIS SOLVE TO:

66-67

OUT

68

EXT. DEXTER'S HOUSE
as the car drives up. There are no lights
burning, but by the very good light of the
full moon we see Mike, still holding his bottle
of champagne, get out of the car.

Mike (to John)
This is where Cinderella gets off. Hurry back to
the ball, before you turn into a pumpkin and six
white mice -

The car drives away and Mike looks up at the
house, then pours a drink into one of the cups.

Mike (calling)
Oh, C.K.Dexter-Haven!
(he waits a moment, then yells again --
even louder)

C.K. Dexter-Ha--aa--aa--ven!!

After a moment a couple of lights go on - then
one in the front hall and also the porch.
Mike goes up to the front door.

69

EXT. FRONT DOOR
which opens to disclose Dexter in pyjamas and
dressing gown.

Dexter
Hello, Connor. What's up?

Mike (with a slightly drunken laugh)
You are.

Dexter (grinning)
I certainly wish I were a witty newspaperman.
Come on in.

Mike enters.

70

INT. FRONT HALL

81

Mike (holding out the bottle)
I bring you greetings. Cinderella's slipper -
(he pours a drink, then hands the bottle
to Dexter)
It's called champagne. Champagne is the great
leveler. It makes you my equal.

Dexter
Oh, I wouldn't quite say that.

Mike
Well - almost my equal. Haven, I want to talk to
you.

Dexter
Fine. Let's go into the talking room.

He indicates a room and goes ahead to snap on
the light.

71

INT. DEN

As they enter. Dexter puts the bottle down
on a table.

The den is a comfortable "sportsman's" room,
decorated chiefly with pictures of yachts,
two or three boat models on the mantelpiece
over an old fireplace.

Dexter
Don't tell me the party's all over.

Mike
No. I just felt like talking to you.
(he reaches for the bottle)
Mind if I borrow a drink?

Dexter
Coals to Newcastle.

Mike drinks and puts the bottle down on top
of a bookcase. His eyes light up as he sees
his own book.

Mike
What's this? My book. Haven - you have unsuspect-
ed depth.

Dexter
Thanks, old man.

Mike (suddenly suspicious)
But - have you read it?

CONTINUED:

71

82

CONTINUED (2)

Dexter nods affirmatively and smiles non-committally.

Dexter
I was trying to stop drinking -- I read *anything*.

Mike
And did you stop drinking?

Dexter (nodding)
It wasn't your book that did it, though.

Mike takes the bottle and sinks into chair.
He broods for an instant, then suddenly speaks.

Mike
Are you still in love with her? Or maybe you consider that a very personal question.

Dexter
Not at all.

Mike
Liz thinks you are -- but women always like to romanticize about things.

Dexter (nodding in apparent agreement)
They do, don't they.

Mike
You know, I don't see how you can have been married to her, and know so little about her.

Dexter
Don't you?

Mike (indicating the bottle)
May I have another?

Dexter (graciously)
Certainly.

Mike drinks.

Mike
Tracy is not an ordinary girl. You said some things to her this afternoon that I resented.

Dexter
Mr. Connor, I apologize.

Mike
Oh, that's all right. But when a girl is like Tracy -- one in a million -- sort of like a -- like a --

Dexter
-- a goddess?

CONTINUED:

71

83

CONTINUED (3)

Mike (frowning)

No -- you used that word this afternoon. More
like a queen - a radiant, glorious queen. You
can't treat her like other women.

Dexter

No, I suppose not. But then, I imagine
Kittredge appreciates all that.

Mike

(with great scorn)

Kittredge! That phoney! That fake man of the
people - he isn't even smart - he's a five cent
edition of Sidney Kidd!

Dexter

I thought Kidd himself was the five cent Kidd -

Mike

(angry)

Then what's that make you worth, Haven? -- Bring-
ing us down here --

Dexter

(calmly)

But you _know_ why I did that. To get even
with my ex-bride. You told me that yourself.

Mike

(exasperated but not pugnacious)

Doggone it, Haven -- either I'm going to sock you
or you're going to sock me!

Dexter

Shall we toss a coin?

Mike

But Kidd is using you -- like he uses everybody
else! You don't _know_ Kidd - not like I do.
The man is terrific. Colossal! He's got _every_
body fooled - !

Dexter

(as if dictating to himself)

"No mean Machiaevelli is smiling, cynical Sidney
Kidd. The world is his oyster with an 'R' in
every month."

Mike

That's not bad. When did I say that?

Dexter

I said it. Sorry.

71

84

CONTINUED (4)

Mike

Ever hear about Kidd's little arrangement in
Kansas City?

(Dexter shakes his head)

San Francisco?

(again Dexter shakes his head and
Mike warms up to the subject)

Let me tell you about the time he went to Boston
to be awarded the Sarah Langley medal for World
Peace. The true story of that little jaunt would
<u>ruin</u> him!

Dexter

Wait a minute, Connor. What would happen to you
if I used this stuff?

Mike

Why?

Dexter

I might want to, very much. You see -- Kidd is
holding a very dirty piece about Tracy's father --
and this might stop him.

Mike

(slowly)

About Tracy's father -- oh. Oh, so that's how
Kidd got you to -- so that's how Liz and I were
gotten in. Blackmail. We rode in on a filthy,
blackmailing -

(he focuses a drunken but serious eye
on Dexter)

Look. Use it. Use it with my blessings. I'm
cooked anyway. I'm through. I'm not going to turn
in any story on this wedding...I'll do a story on
Kidd.

Dexter (reaching in his desk for
some paper and a pencil)

No, let me do that. He doesn't have to know where
I got my facts.

(he writes quickly on a piece of paper)

Peace medal. Boston. Shoot.

Mike

The time is May, nineteen thirty eight. The scene
is a hotel in Boston...

As he talks,

DISSOLVE TO:

72-88

OUT

88-X1

85

MIKE

(the dawn is breaking). He has his coat off, his tie is on one side, and his right hand is raised in the air as he comes to the climax of what resembles an oration. Dexter is writing furiously at the desk.

Mike

And this same Sidney Kidd, ladies and gentlemen of America, this protector of American democracy and homes and firesides, was at that moment entertaining that South Carolina Mata Hari on his yacht!

The doorbell rings.

Mike (angrily toward the door)

Don't interrupt me!

Dexter (getting up)

We'd better see who it is.

Dexter exits.

CUT TO:

88-X2

FRONT DOOR

as Dexter opens it to disclose Liz, still in eveningdress. In the driveway, Tracy is seated at the wheel of her car. The radio is softly playing dance music.

Liz

We've come for the body of Macaulay Connor.

Dexter

You're just in time. Can you use a typewriter?

Liz

No, thank you. I have one at home.

Dexter (looking past her toward the driveway)

Who's that?

(he recognizes Tracy)

Oh.

(to Liz)

Where's Kitteredge?

Liz

The people's choice? His bride just dropped him at the gate house after a slight explosion.

Dexter

A fight?

Liz

Fifteen rounds. No decision. Where's my wandering parakeet?

Dexter (he points toward the door)

He's in there.

As Liz starts toward the den, Dexter hesitates and then goes out on the porch.

CUT TO:

88-X3

86

FRONT PORCH

as Dexter comes out and walks toward Tracy's car. She is lying back in the seat, her eyes closed, listening to the music.

Dexter
You look beautiful, Red.

She opens her eyes.

Dexter
Come on in.

Tracy
Why?

Dexter
No particular reason. A drink maybe.

Tracy
I don't drink.

Dexter
That's right. I forgot.

Tracy
I haven't.

Mike exits from the house. Liz stands in the door.

Mike
Show Liz to a typewriter, and stand back -

Dexter
Can she do it?

Mike
She can - and will. You dictate to her, and bring her home.

He goes up beside Tracy and thumbs his way like a hitch-hiker.

Mike
Going my way, Miss?

Tracy (for Dexter's benefit)
Miss Goddess to you.

Mike
Okay. Miss Goddess to me.

He climbs into the car.

Tracy (calling toward the porch)
Coming, Liz?

Liz (waving from the porch)
I've got to commit suicide first. See you in church.

As Tracy starts the car, Mike reaches over and makes the music loud.

DISSOLVE TO:

89-93
94

87

OUT
EXT. TERRACE

Mike and Tracy, still in evening clothes,
are dancing to the music of a portable radio.
A bottle of champagne with two glasses is
on the table nearby. The radio temporarily
stops as does the dancing.

Mike
Time to re-fuel.

He hands Tracy a glass of wine.

Tracy
Oh Mike, I'm suspended in mid-air. Let's fly
around a little, this fine morning. Let's -
(she drinks)

Let's -- do you hear a telephone ringing?

Mike
I did a little while ago.
(taking her glass)
Let me see.
(he takes a drink and listens)
Not yet.
(he takes another drink and listens)
Yes, now I do -- far away.

Tracy (dreamily, very far away)
It must be George. Oh, Mike, he was so rude on
the way home.

Mike
This is his apology ringing in our ears.

Tracy
Let it ring.
(she raises the glass to him)
Hello, you.

She drinks and hands the glass to Mike.

Mike
Hello.
(he drinks)

Tracy
You look fine.

Mike
I feel fine.

Tracy
Did you enjoy the party?

Mike
Sure. The prettiest sight in this pretty world,
is the Privileged Class enjoying its privileges.

CONTINUED:

94

88

CONTINUED (2)

Tracy (sitting)
You're a snob, Connor.

Mike
No doubt.
(he points his glass at her)
"Awash with champagne was Mr. Will Q. Tracy's pleasure dome, on the nuptial eve of Tracy Samantha - "
(he comes over and sits down beside her)
Tracy, you can't marry that guy.

Tracy
George? I'm going to. Why not? I thought you were for him.

Mike
I've changed my mind. You don't match up.

Tracy
Then the fault's with me.

Mike
You can't do it.

Tracy (standing up)
No? Come around about noon tomorrow -- I mean today - snob.

Mike
How do you mean - snob?

Tracy
You're the worst kind there is - an intellectual snob. You're just a walking mass of little prejudices. You're so much thought and so little feeling, Professor.

Mike
(also rising)
Oh, I am, am I?

CONTINUED:

94

89

CONTINUED (3)

Tracy

Yes, you am, are you! Your intolerance infuriates
me! I should think, of all people, a writer would
need tolerance. The fact is, you'll never - you
can't be a first rate writer, or a first rate
human being, until you learn to have some small
regard for --

(suddenly she stops. Her eyes widen,
remembering that she is parroting
Dexter's speech to her)

Aren't the geraniums pretty, Professor?

Mike (filling the glass again)

Lay off that "Professor".

Tracy

Yes, Professor.

Mike

You've got all the arrogance of your class all
right, haven't you?

Tracy

What do you mean - "class"? What have "classes"
to do with anything - except the people in them?
George comes from the so-called "lower" class.
Dexter comes from the "upper". Well?

Mike

Well?

Tracy

Mac, the night-watchman, is a prince among men,
and Uncle Willie is a pincher. "Upper" and "lower"
my eye! I'll take the "lower", thanks.

Mike

If you can't get a drawing room.

She looks at him quickly.

Tracy

What do you mean by that?

Mike

My mistake.

Tracy

You're insulting.

Mike (handing her a glass)

I'm sorry.

Tracy

Oh, don't apologize.

Mike

Who's apologizing?

CONTINUED:

94

CONTINUED (4)

90

Tracy (taking a drink)
I never knew such a man.

Mike
You wouldn't be likely to, dear, not from where
<u>you</u> sit.

Tracy (turning her back on him)
Talk about arrogance!

Mike
Tracy -
(he comes up behind her. He speaks with
sudden tenderness)

Tracy - you're wonderful.
(she laughs and walks away. He follows)

There's a magnificence in you.

Tracy shakes her head for a moment as though
trying to clear it of fog.

Tracy
I'm - I - it's funny. I'm embarrassed, now.
(another moment)

Mike, let's -
(she turns to him)

Mike
Yes?

Tracy
I don't know - go up, I guess. It's late.

Mike
A magnificence that comes out of your eyes, in
your voice, in the way you stand there, in the way
you walk. You're lit from within. There are fires
banked down in you, hearth-fires and holocausts -

Tracy
You - I don't seem to you - made of bronze, then -

Mike (his face close to hers)
You're made of flesh and blood - that's the blank,
unholy surprise of it. You're the golden girl,
Tracy, full of life and warmth and delight -
(he suddenly stops)

What goes on? You've got tears in your eyes.

Tracy
Shut up, shut up! Oh, Mike - keep talking -- keep
talking! <u>Talk</u>, will you!

Mike
I've stopped.

For a long moment they look at each other.
Then Tracy puts the glass down and speaks
deliberately, hoarsely:
CONTINUED:

94

92

CONTINUED (6)

Mike

Why? Would it be inconvenient?

Tracy

Terribly. Any way it isn't. I know it isn't. Oh, Mike, we're out of our minds!

Mike

Right into our hearts. Tracy, you're so lovely -

He starts to kiss her but she breaks away. Once more she closes her eyes and shakes her head, like a punch-drunk prizefighter.

Tracy

No. No, Mike. I-let's-let's go for a swim. It will be lovely now...

(she takes off her bracelet and ring and puts them on the table)

Oh, Mike, it's as if - it's as if my insteps were melting away. What is it? Have I got feet of clay-or something?

Mike (taking her hand)

Tracy - you're tremendous.

Tracy

Oh, not me-not me!

She runs off toward the pool. Mike follows.
THE CAMERA FOLLOWS THE TWO FIGURES as they cross the lawn and disappear into the grove not far from the house.

WIPE TO:

94-X1

EXT. FRONT ENTRANCE - LORD ESTATE

as Dexter and Liz drive up in Dexter's roadster.
Liz is asleep. Her eyes open as the car comes to a stop.

Liz

I can't imagine what makes me so sleepy.

Dexter (smiling as they get out)

It's those sleeping pills in the champagne.

Mac, a kindly faced old Scotchman (the night-watchman) comes into the scene.

Mac (scotch brogue)

Well, well, it's you -- Mr. Dexter. I heard you were about.

Dexter

Hello, Mac.

(he shakes hands with Mac)

Any prowlers around?

CONTINUED:

93

94-X1

CONTINUED (2)

Mac
Nary a prowler.

Dexter (indicating front door)
Can Miss Imbrie get in this way?

Mac
If she can't we can always go around back.

He goes up to the door and finds it open. Liz enters.

Dexter
Thank you, Mac.

As they enter,

CUT TO:

94-X2

FRONT HALL

in which one light is burning. Dexter and Liz talk softly as they walk to the foot of the stairs.

Liz (yawning)
Well, home after a hard day's black-mailing. (she sinks into a chair and takes off her shoes)

When are you going to telephone Kidd?

Dexter
In time to get him here for the wedding.

Liz
Why?

Dexter (grinning)
Sort of a wedding present--if it works.

Liz (thoughtfully)
If it works.

Dexter
I can still tear it up.

Liz
No. Mike's only chance to be a good writer is to get fired.

Dexter
You're a good number, Liz.

Liz
No--I just photograph well. (she stands up, totters, groans, and feels her head)

But I'm certainly out of focus now.

Dexter
Why not take a swim?

Liz
Swim?

CONTINUED:

95

94-X6

DEXTER

who waves pleasantly.

Dexter
Good morning, Kittredge.

CUT TO:

95-97

OUT

98

GEORGE

who is moving toward the table on which are
the champagne glasses and Tracy's jewelry.

George
What are you doing here?

Dexter
Oh, I'm a friend of the family's. Just dropped
in for a chat.

George
Don't try to be funny. I asked you a question.

Dexter
I might ask you the same one.

George
I telephoned Tracy and her phone didn't answer.
I was worried, so I walked over from the gate
house.

Dexter
Yes, I was worried too.

George
About what?

Dexter strolls over to the table.

Dexter
What do you think of this Connor - or do
you?

George
Listen, if you're trying to insinuate --

Dexter
My dear fellow, I wouldn't dream of it! I
was...
(he sees the champagne glasses and
Tracy's jewelry)
Only...

CONTINUED:

98

CONTINUED (2)

96

He glances quickly toward the beechgrove, and quickly pockets the ring and bracelet.

Dexter
Look, Kittredge, I advise you to go to bed.

George
I don't want your advice. I'm staying right here.

Dexter
You're making a mistake. Somehow I don't think you'll understand.

George
You'd better leave that to -- what's that?

Faintly, but ever increasing in volume, Mike's voice is heard; he is singing "Baby's Moon's a Silver Boat".

Dexter
That's Mac, the night watchman. Always singing, Mac is -

(he takes George by the arm)
Come on, let's walk around the house, and I'll tell you all about it.

George (looking toward the beechgrove)
There's something going on here! I'm staying - and so are you!

Dexter
All right then: take the works, and may Heaven be with you!

He stares out past George, his eyes wide with horror. George turjs to follow his glance.

99

SHOOTING TOWARD GROVE -

from the terrace. The singing Mike appears. In his arms he carries Tracy. Both are in bathrobes and slippers, and there's a jumble of clothes - his and hers, slung over his shoulder.

100

DEXTER AND GEORGE

George's face grows tense. Dexter watches him closely.

Philadelphia 101
Story

97

TRACY AND MIKE

Mike stops singing as he sees George and Dexter, but he continues walking towards the porch.

Tracy (sleepily)
Don't stop, Mike. Sing some more.

Mike, trying to put on a good front once more, begins "Baby's Moon's a Silver Boat," CAMERA TRUCKING WITH HIM as he advances across the lawn. As he almost reaches the porch George stops towards him. Dexter swiftly comes in between George and Mike.

George
What is this, Connor?

Dexter
Now easy. Easy, old man.
(to Mike)
She's not hurt?

Mike
No. She just -

Tracy (murmuring dreamily)
Not wounded, Sire - but dead.

Mike (in a low voice)
It seems the minute she hit the water, the wine hit her.

Dexter (glances at George, who's staring)
A likely story, Connor.

Mike
What did you say?

Dexter
I said, a likely story!

Mike
Listen: if - - !

Dexter
You'll come down again directly?

Mike
Yes. If you want!

Dexter
I want!

Tracy lifts her head limply and looks at them.

CONTINUED:

Philadelphia
Story

101

98

CONTINUED (2)

Tracy

Hello, Dexter. Hello, George.
(she crooks her head around and
looks foggily at Mike)

Hello, Mike.

Dexter goes towards the door of house and Mike,
with Tracy, follows.

102

DOOR OF HOUSE

Dexter opens it for Mike.

Dexter

Second door on the right - top of the stairs.

Mind you don't wake Dinah.

Tracy

My feet are of clay -- made of clay -- did you
know it?

(she drops her head again and tightens
her arms around Mike's neck)

Goo' nigh' -- sleep well, little man.

Mike carries her through the door.

Dexter (whispering after him)

Liz is asleep, I think. And lock out for Dinah.

(he closes the door. He turns to
George, who stands aghest at what
he has seen)

How are the mighty fallen! But if I know Tracy--
and I know her well -- she'll remember very little
of this. For the second time in her life, she may
draw quite a tidy blank.

George utters two groans, and Dexter stares
at him ineredulously.

Dexter

You believe it, then?

George

Believe what?

Dexter

The - or - the implications of what you've seen,
let's say.

George

What else is there to believe?

CONTINUED:

102

99

CONTINUED (2)

Dexter
Why, I suppose that's entirely up to you.

George
I've got eyes, and I've got imagination, haven't I?

Dexter
I don't know. Have you?

George
So you pretend not to believe it?

Dexter
Yes, I pretend not to.

George
Then you don't know women.

Dexter
Possibly not.

George
And you're a fool!

Dexter
Oh, quite possibly!

George utters another groan.

Dexter (studying him)
You won't be too hard on her, will you?

George
I'll make up my own mind what I'll be!

Dexter
But we're all only human, you know.

George
You - all of you - with your sophisticated ideas!

Dexter
Ain't it awful!

Mike comes swiftly out of the door, and goes
up to Dexter.

Mike
Well?

George (starting towards Mike)
Why, you low down - !

Dexter (quickly)
The lady is my wife, Mr. Connor!

His uppercut to Mike's jaw sends him across
the terrace and to the floor.

CONTINUED:

Philadelphia

Story

102

CONTINUED (3)

100

George (to Dexter)
What right have you got - !

Dexter
A husband's. Till tomorrow, Kittredge.

George
I'll make up my mind; all right!

He turns and storms away from the terrace, in
the direction of his car.

Dexter (to Mike)
Are you okay, old man?

Mike (sitting up and nursing his
chin)
Listen. If you think -

Dexter
I know-I'm sorry. But I thought I'd better hit you
before he did. He's in better shape than I am...

The sound of George's car driving off is
heard.
Mike (again feeling his jaw)
You'll do.

Mac comes into the scene. Mike has his
back to him.

Mac (Scotch brogue)
Hello, Mr. Dexter. Anything wrong?

Dexter
Not a thing, Mac. Just as quiet as a church.

Mac (indicating Mike)
Who is it?
(he looks at Mike, who turns to
face him)
Doggone! I thought it might be Kittredge.

Dexter
We can't have everything, Mac.

As he and Mac exchange grins, the CAMERA
MOVES UPWARD to the second story of the
house, and then COMES TO A WINDOW of one of
the rooms, at which WE SEE the very-wide-eyed,
open-eyed Dinah, peeking behind the curtain.

FADE OUT.

Phila- 103
delphia

FADE IN:
INT. UNCLE WILLIE'S ENTRANCE HALL - DAY

101

Uncle Willie, in formal wedding attire, is making his extremely careful descent of the stairs in the b.g. He handles his head definitely as if it were not of one piece with the rest of his body. The CAMERA BOOMS down the stairs with him and up to a small table near the front door on which his top hat awaits him. Wincing into the mirror above the table, Uncle Willie sets the hat ever so carefully on his head. His butler enters the scene quietly and speaks in a perfectly normal tone of voice.

### Butler

I beg your pardon, Mr. Tracy -

Uncle Willie jumps as though shot.

### Uncle Willie

Good grief, man, don't scream at the top of your voice! I had champagne last night -

### Butler

(in a very quiet whisper)

Miss Dinah is waiting for you, sir.

### Uncle Willie

Dinah? Waiting for me? Where? Why?

### Butler (still whispering)

It is Miss Dinah, sir, just outside the door, and I don't know why.

### Uncle Willie

This is one of those days which the pages of history teaches us are best spent lying in bed.

He exits through the front door.

104

### EXT. UNCLE WILLIE'S HOUSE - DAY

Dinah, dressed for the wedding, is waiting patiently, seated in a wicker pony cart. She looks up as Uncle Willie comes out and yells heartily.

Dinah (loudly)

Uncle Willie!

Uncle Willie winces, turns around and starts back into the house.

CONTINUED:

104

CONTINUED (2)

102

Dinah
Uncle Willie, where are you going?

Uncle Willie (firmly)
Back to my quiet bed, unless you give me your
oath to speak in a civilized tone of voice.

Dinah
I'll be quiet, Uncle Willie. It's so important
that I see you -

Uncle Willie approaches the pony cart
and eyes it with misgivings.

Uncle Willie
Must we ride in that? Wouldn't we be more
comfortable on pogo sticks?

Dinah
I had to be alone with you. And this is very
intimate -

Uncle Willie (climbing in)
It's not only intimate - it's unclean.

Dinah
And so is what I have to tell you.

She flips the reins, and the pony cart
starts off with a sharp jerk. Uncle Willie
grabs his head and groans.

Dinah
What's the matter?

Uncle Willie
Nothing much, really. My head just dropped off.

DISSOLVE TO:

105

EXT. PONY CART (MOVING SHOT)

Uncle Willie jolts along in silence for a
moment, then raises his pain-glazed eyes
to Dinah.

Uncle Willie
Let's get at it. What's alack? What's afoot?
What is the purpose of subjecting me to this
fiendish torture?

Dinah
I had no one to turn to but you.

Uncle Willie
People are always turning to me. I wish they'd
stop.

CONTINUED:

105

CONTINUED (2)

Dinah

It's desperate. It's about Tracy.

Uncle Willie

Tracy? What's she up to now? Tracy this and Tracy
that. Upstairs and downstairs and in my lady's
chamber.

Dinah

How did you know?

Uncle Willie

Know what? Get to the point, child.

Dinah

Well - lookit -- you don't like George, do you?

Uncle Willie

Kittredge? I deplore him.

Dinah

And you'd like it if Tracy didn't go ahead and
have married him after all - or would you?

Uncle Willie

Where do you go to school?

Dinah

Nowheres - yet.

Uncle Willie

I would never have guessed it. Like it? I would
raise my voice in song.

Dinah

Well, I think I know a way to stop her from, but
I need advice on how.

Uncle Willie

Again, please?

Dinah

Suppose she all of a sudden developed an illikit
passion for someone?

(she can keep her secret no longer
and hisses eagerly)

She has already!

Uncle Willie

Who?

Dinah

His name will not cross my lips. It's Mr. Connor!

The cart hits a rock, and bounces viciously.

Uncle Willie yelps in pain.

CONTINUED:

105

CONTINUED (3)

Dinah

Now what?

Uncle Willie

My head just bounced back on again.

DISSOLVE TO:

106

EXT. LORD TERRACE - DAY

Uncle Willie makes his way gingerly to a
comfortable chair, and sinks into it. Dinah
follows steathily.

Uncle Willie
(after removing his hat, and rubbing
his brow)

And now - what is this gibberish about Connor?
What makes you suspect - and since when?

Dinah
Last night - and well into the morning. Uncle
Willie, isn't my *duty* to tell George?

Uncle Willie
Maybe he'll want to marry her, anyway.

Dinah
But she can't: If she marries anyone, it's just
*got* to be Mr. Connor!

Dexter's Voice
Why, Dinah? What makes you think she should?

Dinah whirls, appalled, to see Dexter off
to one side, smiling at them. He is dressed
in flannels, and a soft shirt, obviously
not intending to attend the wedding. Uncle
Willie looks up wearily.

Uncle Willie
Dinah's been seeing things.

Dexter
(looking at Dinah and then glancing
up at her window above the porch)

What's the matter, Dinah? Did the party give you
bad dreams?

Dinah
It wasn't any dream.

Dexter
I wouldn't be too sure. Once you've gone to sleep,
it's pretty hard to tell, isn't it?

CONTINUED:

106

CONTINUED (2)

105

Dinah (half-convinced)
Is it?

Uncle Willie
(looking toward the door)
What ho -- the bride!

CUT TO:

107

TERRACE AT DOOR

as Tracy comes out, wearing the dress in
which she is to be married. She has a
leather-strapped wrist-watch in her hand.

Tracy
(walking to the front of the porch
and taking a deep breath)
Hello! Isn't it a fine day, though! Is everybody fine?
(she turns around and lets herself down
somewhat uncertainly into a chair)
That's fine.

Dexter
And how fine are you?

Tracy
I don't know what's the matter with me. I must
have had too much sun yesterday.

Dexter
It's awfully easy to get too much.

Tracy
My eyes don't open properly.
(she picks up a silver cigarette box
and looks at the reflection of her eyes
in it)
Please go home, Dext.

Dexter
Not 'til we get those eyes open.

Tracy
Uncle Willie, good morning. Aren't you here
early?

Uncle Willie
That remains to be seen.

CONTINUED:

107

CONTINUED (2)

106

Dinah
It's nearly half-past twelve.

Tracy
It can't be! Where - where's Mother?

Dinah
She's talking with the orchestra, and Father with
the minister...and George isn't here yet.

Dexter
And it's Saturday. Your wedding day. Remember?

Tracy
Thanks loads. It's nice to have things accounted
for.
(she puts her hand with the wristwatch
over her eyes, then looks at the watch)
Only I wonder what this might be?

Dexter
It looks terribly like a wristwatch.

Tracy
But whose? I found it in my room. I nearly
stepped on it.

Dinah
Getting out of bed?

Tracy
Yes. Why?

Dinah (knowingly)
Mm- Mm.

Tracy puts the watch on the table.

Tracy
Also - I think I was robbed at your house last
night, Uncle Willie...my bracelet and engagement
ring.

Dexter obligingly takes them from his pocket.

Dexter
Here you are.
(she stares at them, then at him)

Tracy
But you weren't at the party!

Dexter
Wasn't I? Don't tell me you don't remember?

Tracy
I do now, sort of. But there were such a lot of
people... (she puts her hand to her head once more)
...and I stayed too late.
CONT'D.

107

CONTINUED (3)

107

Dexter

You should have taken a quick swim when you
got home.

Tracy

A swim?

(her eyes go round)

Dexter (with a laugh)

There! Now they're open.

Dinah

That was just the beginning - and it was no dream!

Dexter (glancing at Dinah and
then speaking to Uncle Willie)

Do you suppose, sir - speaking of eye-openers --

Uncle Willie

Come with me, Dexter. I know a formula that is
said to pop the pennies off the eyelids of dead
Irishmen.

Dexter (to Tracy)

Mind if I go in the house - just the pantry?

Tracy is trying to remember something
and pays no attention.

Dexter (to Dinah)

You might tell Tracy your dream, Dinah - if con-
versation lags.

He follows Uncle Willie through the door.

Tracy

What did he say?

Dinah

Oh, nothing --

(she puts her hand tenderly on Tracy's
shoulder)

Tracy, I hate you to get married and go away.

Tracy (also tenderly)

Baby, I'll miss you.

I'll miss all of you.

Dinah

You know, I did have the funniest dream about
you last night.

Tracy (standing up)

Did you? How do you like my dress, Dinah? It
feels awfully heavy.

She moves to the edge of the porch
and blinks at the sunlight.

CONTINUED:

107

CONTINUED (6)

110

Tracy
Dexter? You told Dexter all that?

Dinah
Not a word, not a single word. But you know how
quick he is --

Tracy
Dinah Lord -- you little fiend!

Seth comes onto the porch from the house.

Seth
Dinah, your mother wants to look at you.

Dinah
I look wonderful. I smell good too.

Tracy
Father --

Seth
Yes?

Tracy
I - I'm glad you've come back. I'm glad you're here.

Seth
Thank you, Tracy.

Tracy
I'm sorry -- I'm truly sorry I'm a disappointment
to you.

Seth
I never said that, Tracy -- and I never will.

He looks at her for a moment, touches
her arm, then turns abruptly and enters
the house.

Seth (calling over his shoulder)
Better hurry, Dinah!

As Dinah starts to leave, Mike appears in
the doorway. Dinah gasps and decides not
to leave.

Mike
Hello, Dinah.

Dinah (icily)
How do you do.

Mike (to Tracy)
Good morning. I'm testing the air. I like it, but
it doesn't like me.

CONTINUED:

107

CONTINUED (/)

///

Tracy
Did -- did you have a good sleep?

Mike
Wonderful. How about you?

Tracy
Marvelous. Have you ever seen a handsomer day?

Mike
Never. What did it set you back?

Tracy
I got it for nothing, for being a good girl.

Mike
Good.

There is a brief silence. They look at Dinah.

Dinah
I'm going. Don't worry.
(she moves toward the door)

Tracy
Why should you?

Dinah
I guess you must have things you wish to discuss.
Only remember -- it's getting late.

As she speaks there is the SOUND of violins
being tuned up. Dinah exits.

Tracy
Well --

Mike
Well --

Tracy
What did you do to your chin?

Mike
I guess I just stuck it out too far.

Tracy
Into a door, in the dark?

Mike
That's it. Are you -- are you all right, Tracy?

Tracy
Me? Of course. Why shouldn't I be?

Mike
That was a flock of wine we put away.

CONTINUED:

107

CONTINUED (8)

1/2

Tracy
I -- I guess we're lucky both to have such good heads.

Mike
Yes, I guess.

Tracy
It must be awful for people who - you know - get up and make speeches or - or try to start a fight - or, you know - misbehave in general.

Mike
It certainly must.

Tracy
It must be - some sort of hidden weakness coming out.

Mike
Weakness? I'm not so sure of that.

Tracy
Anyhow, I had a simply wonderful evening. I hope you enjoyed it, too.

Mike
I enjoyed the last part of it.

Tracy
Really? Why--why especially the last?

Mike
Are you asking me, Tracy ?

Tracy
Oh, you mean the swim. We did swim and so forth, didn't we?

Mike
We swam, and so forth...

She turns to him suddenly.

Tracy
Mike --
Tracy, darling --

Tracy
Mike --
What can I say to you? Tell me, darling.

Tracy
Not anything--don't say anything. And especially not "darling".

Mike
You're going to go through with it, then...

Tracy
The wedding? Of course.

Mike
All right. No dice. But also no regrets about last night.

CONTINUED:

107

CONTINUED (9)

113

Tracy (agonized)

But why should I have? Tell me straight out --
tell me the reason why I should have regrets!

(after a moment her head droops)

No -- don't -- just tell me -- what time is it?

Mike

Funny you should ask that. I can't tell you what
time it is. Something's happened to my wristwatch...

Tracy stops, frozen, speaks without turning.

Tracy

Why? Is it broken?

Mike

I've lost it somewhere.

Tracy

I can't tell you how extremely sorry I am to
hear that.

(after a moment)

There, on the table.

Mike

(finding his watch on the table)

Who found it? I'll give a reward or something...

(he straps the watch on his wrist)

Tracy

I don't think any reward will be expected.

(after a moment)

Mike, ask Dexter to come out, will you? He's in
the pantry.

Mike

Good man, that Dexter. Got a good right too.

Tracy

Right to what?

Mike

To my --

(he stops and feels his jaw)

I'll let him tell you.

He exits into the sitting room.

108

INT. SITTING ROOM -

as Mike enters. From the neighboring
living room is heard the murmur of many
voices, tuning of a violin. At a tele-
phone sits Margaret.

CONTINUED:

108

CONTINUED (2)

114

Margaret (in telephone)

No, just give Mr. Kittredge a message. Tell him he'd better start immediately...thank you.

She hangs up, sees Mike, and in her distracted condition does not recognize him.

Margaret

Are you one of the musicians?

(she now recognizes him)

Oh yes, of course, you're Junius' friend, only you're not. You don't have any violin strings, do you?

Mike

(feeling through his pockets)

Would an aspirin do?

Margaret

No, I don't think so. It's for a violin. Well, don't bother.

She hurries toward the hall. Mike grins and starts toward the pantry. Dexter comes from the same direction.

Dexter

Hello, Connor. How are you?

Mike

About as you'd think. Have you seen Kidd?

Dexter

I thought I might be needed here. I left a copy of it for Kidd at my house.

Mike

And?

Dexter

I'll have it out with him after the wedding. Want a drink?

Mike

I'd sell my grandmother for a drink, and you know how I love my grandmother.

(he indicates the terrace)

She's out there. She's drawn a blank. But a complete one.

Dexter nods and indicates the direction of the pantry.

CONTINUED:

108

CONTINUED (2)

115

Dexter

Uncle Willie's in the pantry. Just ask for one of
the same.

Mike (moving toward the pantry)

Is it all right if I say two?

Dexter

That's between you and your grandmother.

He moves toward the terrace as Mike goes
toward the pantry.

109

EXT. TERRACE -

as Dexter enters. Tracy stands looking out
over the lawn. She turns as she hears Dexter.

Tracy

Dexter, I want you to know - I've done the most
terrible thing to you.

Dexter

To me, did you say?

(she nods vigorously)

I doubt that, Red -- I doubt it very much.

Tracy

You don't know. You don't know!

Dexter

Well, maybe I shouldn't.

Tracy

You've got to. You must. I couldn't stand it if
you didn't. Oh, Dext -- what am I going to do?

Dexter

But why to me, darling? Why ask me?

(she looks at him)

Where do I come into it any more?

(still she looks)

Aren't you confusing me with someone else, a
fellow named Kittredge or something?

Tracy

George --

Dexter

That's right -- George Kittredge. A splendid
chap, very high morals, very broad shoulders.

CONTINUED:

109

CONTINUED (2)

116

Tracy
I've got to tell him.

Dexter
Tell him what?

Tracy
I've got to tell him. Where is he?

Dexter
(looking at his wrist watch)
Probably on his way over now. If he's got any brain at all, he will have realized by this time what a fool he made of himself.

Tracy
Was -- was he here too?

Dexter
Sure.

Tracy
Oh, good golly! Why didn't you sell tickets?
Say something, Dext -- anything!

Dexter
No -- you do.

Tracy
Oh, Dexter, I'm such an unholy mess of a girl!

Dexter
That's no good. That's not even conversation.

Tracy
You say something then.

Dexter
All right. How did you like my wedding present?
I like my presents at least to be acknowledged.

Tracy
It was beautiful and sweet, Dext.

Dexter
She was quite a boat, the True Love.

Tracy
Was, and is.

Dexter
My, she was yare.

Tracy
She was yare, all right.
(after a moment)
I wasn't, was I?

CONTINUED:

109

CONTINUED (3)

117

Dexter (with a laugh)
Not very. You were good at the bright work though.

Tracy
I did make her shine, didn't I? Where is she now?

Dexter
I'm going to sell her to Rufe Watriss.

Tracy
You're going to sell the true love?
(Dexter nods)
For money?
(he smiles and nods again)
To that fat old rum-pot?

Dexter
Why not? When you're through with a boat, you're --
(looks at her)
Unless you want her.

Tracy
No. I don't want her.

Dexter
I'm designing another one -- Be starting on the
drawings any day, now.

Tracy
What will you call her?

Dexter
I thought the "True Love II". What do you think?

Tracy (after a moment)
Dexter, if you call any boat that, I promise you
I'll blow you and it right out of the water!
I'll tell you what you can call it, if you like --
in fond remembrance of me --

Dexter
What?

Tracy
"The Easy Virtue."

Dexter
Tracy, I won't have you thinking such things of
yourself!

Tracy
What am I supposed to think when - oh, I don't
know. I don't know anything any more!

Dexter
Now that sounds very hopeful. That sounds just
fine, Tracy.

CONTINUED:

109

118

CONTINUED (4)

Margaret comes out of the house. She has a
note in her hand. Behind her are Mike and
Liz.

Margaret
Dexter, you shouldn't be here.

(to Tracy)

We're almost ready, dear. Turn around.

(Tracy turns)

Yes, it looks lovely. I'm glad we decided against
the blue one.

Tracy
I want to see George.

Margaret
He's on his way. I just telephoned. Oh, here's
a note he sent you this morning. I left it in
the hall.

(Tracy tears open the note and begins
to read)

Now, don't sit down again until after the ceremony.

Dr. Parsons, the clergyman, appears at
the door.

Dr. Parsons
Tracy?

Tracy
(without looking up from the note)
Yes?

Dr. Parsons smiles and beckons engagingly.

Margaret
Mr. Kittredge hasn't arrived yet, Dr. Parsons. I
want you to meet Tracy's grandmother.

She hustles Dr. Parsons into the house.

Dexter
I'm afraid it's the deadline, Tracy.

Tracy
So is this! Listen! "My dear Tracy: your conduct
last night was so shocking to my ideals of woman-
hood that my attitude toward you and the prospects
of a happy and useful life together has changed
materially. Your breach of common decency--"

George comes out the door.

George
Tracy--!

CONTINUED:

109

CONTINUED (5)

119

Tracy
Hello, George.

George
Tracy, all these people -- !

Tracy
It's only a letter from a friend. They're my friends, too.

(she continues reading)

"certainly entitles me to a full explanation before going through with our proposed marriage. In the light of day, I am sure that you will agree with me. Otherwise, with profound regrets and all best wishes, yours very sincerely --"

(folds the note and returns it to the envelope)

Yes, George, I quite agree with you. In the light of day or the dark of night, for richer, for poorer, for better, for worse, in sickness and in health -- and thank you so very much for your good wishes at this time.

George
That's all you've got to say?

Tracy
What else? I wish for your sake, as well as mine, I had an explanation. But unfortunately, I've none. You'd better just say "Good riddance", George.

George
It isn't easy, you know.

Tracy
I don't see why.

Liz (to Mike)
Say something, Stupid.

Mike
Liz
What for?

George
On the very eve of your wedding, an affair with another man --

Tracy
I told you I agreed, George! And I tell you again, good riddance to me!

CONTINUED:

109

CONTINUED (6)

120

George

Your attitude is a little difficult to understand.

Tracy

Yes, I can see that it would be.

Dexter

Not necessarily.

George

You keep out of it!

Dexter

You forget. I am out of it.

Mike

Kittredge, it just might interest you to know that the so-called "affair" consisted of exactly two kisses and one rather late swim.

Tracy

Thanks, Mike, but there's no need to --

Mike (to Tracy)

All of which I thoroughly enjoyed and the memory of which I wouldn't part with for anything!

Tracy

It's no use, Mike.

Mike

After which I deposited her on her bed in her room, and promptly returned to you two down here, as you doubtless will remember.

Dexter

Doubtless without a doubt.

George

You mean to say that was all there was to it?

Mike

I do.

George ponders. Tracy is looking at Mike in astonishment. Suddenly she demands of him:

Tracy (angrily)

Why? Was I so terribly unattractive -- so distant, so forbidding, or something, that -- ?

George

This is fine talk, too!

Tracy

I'm asking a question!

CONTINUED:

109

CONTINUED (7)

121

Mike (softens)

You were extremely attractive -- and as for
distant and forbidding, on the contrary. But you
were also somewhat the worse -- or the better --
for wine, and there are rules about that.

Tracy

Thank you, Mike. I think men are wonderful.

Liz

The little dears.

George

I fail to see the humor in this situation, Miss Imbrie.

Liz

I appreciate that. It was a little hard for me
too, at first --

Tracy

Oh, Liz --

Liz

It's all right, Tracy. We all go a little
haywire at times, and if we don't, maybe we
ought to.

Tracy

Liz.

Liz

You see, it really wasn't Tracy at all, Mr.
Kittredge. It was another girl: a Miss Pommery,
1926.

George

You'd had too much to drink --

Tracy

That seems to be the consensus of opinion.

George

Will you promise me never to touch the stuff
again?

Tracy

(looks at him, speaks slowly)

No, George, I don't believe I will. There are
certain things about that other girl - that Miss
Pommery '26 - I rather like.

George

But a man expects his wife to --

Tracy

To behave herself. Naturally.

CONTINUED:

109

CONTINUED (8-9)

122

Dexter

To behave herself naturally.

(George glances at him)

Sorry.

George

But if it hadn't been for the drink last night,
all this might not have happened.

Tracy

But apparently nothing did. What made you think
it had?

George

It didn't take much imagination.

Tracy

Not much, perhaps--but just of a certain kind.

George

It seems *you* didn't think any too well of yourself.

Tracy

That's the odd thing: somehow I'd have hoped
you'd think better of me than I did.

George

I'm not going to quibble, Tracy: all the evidence
was there.

Tracy

And I was guilty straight off. That is--until I
was proved innocent.

Dexter

Downright un-American, if you ask me.

George

No one's asking you!

Elsie, a middle-aged housemaid, appears with
Tracy's hat and gloves.

Elsie

You forgot your hat, Miss Tracy.

(to Dexter)

Oh, Mr. Haven, there's a friend of yours just
arrived. Mr. Sidney Kidd.

Dexter

Not really?

Tracy

Sidney Kidd!

Liz

The jig is up.

George (pleased and astonished)

Sidney Kidd is here himself?

Elsie (to Dexter)

He sent you a message.

Dexter

Yes?

CONTINUED:

109

CONTINUED (10)

123

Elsie
He just said "tell him he wins. Tell him I'm
licked."

(to Tracy)
You look lovely, Miss Tracy. All our very best
wishes.

Tracy
Thank you, Elsie.

Elsie smiles and exits.

Dexter
You'd better go ahead with it, Kittredge. Kidd's
presence here makes the marriage a National Affair!

George
It's extremely kind and thoughtful of him. Come
on, Tracy. It must be late. Let's let bygones
be bygones. What do you say?

Tracy
Yes, and goodbye, George.

George
I don't understand you.

Tracy
Please -- goodbye.

George
But what on earth--?

Liz
I imagine she means that your explanation is
inadequate.

George
Look here, Tracy --

Tracy
You're too good for me, George. You're a hundred
times too good.

George
I never said I --

Tracy
And I'd make you most unhappy, most -- that is,
I'd do my best to.

George
Well, if that's the way you want it --

Tracy
That's the way it is.

CONTINUED:

109

CONTINUED (11)

George (looks at her)
All right. Possibly it's just as well.

Dexter
I thought you'd eventually think so.

George confronts him.

George
I've got a feeling you've had more to do with this
than anyone!

Dexter
Well, perhaps -- but you were a great help.

George
You and your whole rotten class! You're on your
way out - the lot of you - and good riddance!

He stalks out.

Mike
There goes George --

Suddenly the orchestra within the house
bursts into "Oh, Promise Me".

Tracy
Oh, my sainted aunt -- all those people in there!
What in the name of all that's holy am I to do?

Mike
Tracy --

Tracy
Yes, Mike?

Mike
Forget the license --

Tracy
License?

Dexter
I've got an old one here, that we never used,
Maryland being quicker --

Mike
Forget it!
(to Tracy)

Old Parson Parons -- he's never seen Kittredge,
has he? Nor have most of the others. I got you
into this, I'll get you out -- will you marry me,
Tracy?

Tracy
No, Mike -- thanks but, no.

CONTINUED:

109

CONTINUED (12)

125

**Mike**

But listen, I've never asked a girl to marry me
before in my life! You've got me all confused --
why not?

**Tracy**

Because I don't think Liz would like it -- and I'm
not sure that you would -- and I'm even a little
doubtful about myself but -- I'm beholden to you,
Mike, I'm most beholden.

**Mike**

They're in there! They're waiting!

**Liz**

Don't get too conventional all at once, will you?
There'll be a reaction.

**Mike**

**Liz --**

**Dexter**

It'll be all right, Tracy, you've been got out of
jams before.

**Tracy**

Been got out of them, did you say?

**Dexter**

That's what I said, Tracy. Don't worry, you
always are.

Margaret and Seth come out of the house.

**Margaret**

Tracy, we met George in the hall -- it's all right,
dear. Your father will make a very simple
announcement.

**Seth**

Is there anything special you want me to
say?

**Dexter**

You see, never a blow that won't be softened.

**Tracy**

No, I'll say it - whatever it is. I won't be got
out of anything more, thanks.

She hurries into the house.

**Margaret**

Oh, this just can't be happening -- it can't!

They all rush in after her.

110 INT. SITTING ROOM

Tracy enters from the terrace, and crosses
to the sliding doors separating it from the
living room. She yanks them open far enough
to stick her face through.

111 LIVING ROOM

Some of the guests are seated. Some are
standing at the back. The orchestra is still
playing "Oh, Promise Me". Tracy's face draws
their general attention.

Tracy
I'm -- I'm -- stop that music, will you?
(the orchestra ceases)

Hello - good morning. I'm - that is to say --
there's been a little hitch. I've made a terrible
fool of myself -- which isn't unusual.

112 INTERIOR - SITTING ROOM

Tracy's head is through the door into the
living room. Dexter, Mike, Liz, Margaret,
Seth are gathered around her.

Tracy
And my fiance -- my fiance --

Seth!

Margaret

Seth
Wait, my dear.

113 LIVING ROOM

Tracy
My fiance, that was, that is -- he thinks we'd
better call it a day -- and I quite agree with him.

There is a murmur from the audience.

114 CLOSE SHOT - FIRST ROW OF SEATS

Uncle Willie is seated by the pop-eyed Dinah.

Uncle Willie
Peace, it's wonderful.

115

SITTING ROOM

127

Tracy (to Dexter)
Dexter, Dexter, what next? Please - what next?

Dexter
Two years ago, I did you out of a wedding in this
house by eloping to Maryland.

Tracy (into the living room)
Two years ago, you were invited to a wedding in
this house which I did you out of by eloping to
Maryland.

While she is speaking, Dexter lifts up
Margaret's hand and takes a ring from it.

Dexter
May I, just as a loan?
(he hands the ring to Mike)
Here, put this in your vest pocket.

Mike
I haven't got a vest.

Dexter
Then hold it in your hand.

Tracy (to Dexter)
What next?

Dexter
It was very bad manners --

Tracy
It was bad manners --

Dexter
-- but I hope to make it up to you by going
through with it now as originally planned -

116

LIVING ROOM

Tracy (smiling happily)
-- but I hope to make it up to you by going
beautifully through with it now -- as originally
and -- most beautifully planned.

Dexter (pointing his finger to Mike)
Best man.

Mike
Honored, C.K.

CONTINUED:

116

CONTINUED (2)

128

Dexter (to Tracy)
-- So if you'll just keep your seats a minute --

Tracy
-- So, if you'll just keep your seats a minute --

Dexter
That's all.

Tracy
That's all.

She closes the living room doors.

Tracy
Oh, Dexter, are you sure?

Dexter
Not in the least. But I'll risk it. Will you?

Tracy
You bet! And you didn't do it just to soften the blow?

Dexter
No, Tracy.

Tracy
Nor to save my face?

Dexter
It's a nice little face.

Tracy
Oh -- I'll be yare, now -- I'll promise to be yare!

Dexter
Be whatever you like, you're my Redhead. All set?

Tracy
All set. My hat: Where's my hat?

Liz hands it to her. Tracy puts it on.

Tracy (to Liz)
I'm in the market for a maid of honor --

Liz
Delighted. Only you'll have to make it matron of honor. Remember Joe Smith.

Seth (to Margaret)
You'd better tell Mr. Dutton to start the music.

CONTINUED:

116

i CONTINUED (3)

129

Margaret
Oh, I'm so terribly confused -
(she starts out, taking Liz with her)
Come along, Miss Imbrie -

She and Liz exit. Seth takes Tracy in his arms.

Seth (affectionately)
Tracy, darling -

Tracy
I love you, father.

Seth
And I love you.

Off scene the wedding march begins.

Tracy
Oh, never in my life have I been so full of
love!

Dexter
Let's get in there, best man. Got the ring?

Mike excitedly goes through all his pockets, and then finds the ring on his little finger.

Tracy
See you soon, Dexter!

Dexter
See you soon, Red.

Ho and Mike start out.

Mike
(as they go through the door to the
living room)
The way we're dressed, they'll think we're a
couple of stowaways.

Seth and Tracy are left alone. Tracy
whirls around before him.

Tracy
How do I look?

Seth
Like a queen - like a goddess.

Tracy
And do you know how I feel?

CONTINUED: