(bright instrumental music) (filmstrip whirring) (lively orchestral music) (people chattering faintly) (typewriters clacking) >> Man: Copy boy!

Make it snappy and hurry back.

>> Man: Where's the rest of this story?

>> Morning Post.

>> Morning Post.

>> City desk?

Just a moment- >> Forest department?

>> And I'll connect you.

>> Just a moment, please.

>> If anybody asks for me, I'm down at the courthouse.

>> Morning Post.

>> Morning Post.

>> Elevator, going down.

(people chattering faintly) >> Hello, Hildy.

>> Oh, hiya, Skinny.

Hello, Ruth.

Hello, Maisie.

>> Well, look who's here.

>> Hello, Hildy.

>> Hi.

How are ya?

Tell me, is the lord of the universe in?

>> Yes, he's in.

>> In a bad humor.

>> Somebody must have stolen the crown jewels.

>> Shall we announce you?

>> Oh, no, no, I'll blow my own horn.

He's in, Bruce, you better wait here.

I'll be back in 10 minutes.

>> Even 10 minutes is a long time to be away from you.

>> What did you say?

>> What?

Well.

>> Go on.

>> Uh.

(chuckles) >> Lindy: Well, go ahead.

>> Ah, I just said even 10 minutes is a long time to be away from you.

>> I heard you the first time.

I like it.

That's why I asked you to say it again.

(chuckles) I can stand being spoiled a little.

The gentleman I'm going in to see did very little spoiling.

>> Well, I'd like to spoil him just once.

Sure you don't want me to go in with you?

>> Hildy: Oh, no, I can handle it.

>> Well, if it gets rough, remember I'm here.

>> I'll come a-runnin', partner.

Well, hello, Jim.

>> Well, hello, Hildy!

>> Hello, Hildy.

>> How are you?

>> Hi, Hildy, welcome back.

>> Hi, Hildy.

>> Hello, Hildy, how have you been?

>> Hi, Hildy.

>> Hello, Hildy.

>> Oh, hello, Beatrice, how's "Advice to the Lovelorn"?

>> Fine, my cat just had kittens again.

>> It's your fault.

Hi, Jack.

>> Hello Hildy, glad to see you back.

>> Glad to see you.

Hi, Jim.

Mildred, you still around?

>> Oh, hello, Hildy.

>> Louie: A little more around the chin, boss.

(glass knocking) >> What do you want?

>> Your ex-wife is here, do you wanna see her?

(Walter hums) >> Well, hello, Hildy.

>> Hello, Walter.

>> Hi, Hildy.

>> Oh, hello, Louie.

How's the big slot-machine king?

>> Oh, I ain't doing that no more, I'm retired.

You know what I mean?

>> Say, Walter.

>> I'm busy, Duffy.

>> Oh, hello, Hildy.

>> Hello, Duffy.

>> Listen, Walter- >> Get going, I'm busy.

>> I thought you oughta know that the governor didn't sign that reprieve.

>> What?

>> And tomorrow morning, Earl Williams dies and makes a sucker out of us.

(Walter hums) Well, what are you gonna do?

>> Get the governor on the phone.

>> I can't.

>> Why not?

>> Can't locate him, he's out fishing.

>> How many places to fish are there?

>> Well, at least two, the Atlantic and Pacific.

>> All right, that simplifies it, doesn't it?

>> Oh, yeah.

>> Get him on the phone.

>> And tell him what?

>> Hildy: Quiet, Duffy, he's thinking.

>> Tell him if he'll reprieve Earl Williams, we'll support him for senator.

>> What?

>> Tell him the Morning Post will be behind him, hook, line, and sinker.

>> But you can't do that, boss.

>> Why not?

>> Because we've been a Democratic paper for over 20 years!

>> All right, after we get the reprieve, we'll be Democratic again.

>> Oh, Walter- >> Now go on, Duffy, get going.

Remember, the Morning Post expects every city editor to do his duty.

>> All right, all right.

>> You too, Louie, get outta here.

>> Okay, boss.

(Hildy and Walter chuckling) >> Well, Walter, I see you're still at it.

>> It's the first time I ever double crossed a governor.

What can I do for you?

>> Well, would you mind if I sat down?

>> There's been a lamp burning in the window for you, honey, here.

>> Oh, I jumped out of that window a long time ago, Walter.

(Walter chuckling) Oh, may I have one of those?

Thank you.

And a match?

Thank you.

>> Walter: Well well, how long is it?

>> How long is what?

>> You know what.

How long is it since we've seen each other?

>> Oh, well, let's see.

I spent six weeks in Reno, then Bermuda.

Oh, about four months, I guess.

Seems like yesterday to me.

>> Maybe it was yesterday, Hildy.

Been seeing me in your dreams?

>> Oh, no, Mama doesn't dream about you any more, Walter.

You wouldn't know the old girl now.

>> Ah, yes I would.

I'd know you any time, any place.

>> Any place.

>> Any- >> Anywhere.

Ah, you're repeating yourself, Walter.

That's the speech you made the night you proposed.

>> Yeah, I notice you still remember it.

>> Of course I remember it.

If I didn't remembered it, I wouldn't have divorced you.

>> Yeah, I sort of wish you hadn't done that, Hildy.

>> Done what?

>> Divorced me.

It makes a fellow lose all faith in himself.

Gives him a, almost gives him a feeling he wasn't wanted.

>> Ah, now look, junior, that's what divorces are for.

>> Nonsense, you've got the old-fashioned idea divorce is something that lasts forever, till death us do part.

Why, a divorce doesn't mean anything nowadays, Hildy.

Just a few words mumbled over you by a judge.

We've got something between us nothing can change.

>> Mm, well, I suppose you're right in a way, Walter.

>> Sure I'm right.

>> I am fond of you, you know.

>> Attagirl.

>> I often wish you weren't such a stinker.

(Walter stammers) (Walter sighs) >> Latin, I suppose.

You must come up and meet my mother.

She'd like that I'm afraid- >> Then why on Earth did you promise not to fight the divorce and do everything you possibly could to gum up the whole works?

>> Well, I meant to let you go, Hildy, but you know how it is, you never miss the water till the well runs dry.

>> Ah, a fat lummox like you, (Walter chuckles) hiring an airplane to write, "Hildy, don't be hasty, remember my dimple, Walter!"

Delayed our divorce 20 minutes, while the Judge went out to watch it.

>> Well, I don't wanna brag, but I've still got the dimple, and in the same place.

Look, Hildy, I only acted like any husband who didn't want to see his home broken up.

>> What home?

>> What home?

Don't you remember the home I promised you?

>> Sure, I do.

That was the one we were to have right after the honeymoon.

(laughs) Ah, honeymoon.

>> Oh, was that my fault?

Did I know that coal mine was gonna have another cave-in?

I intended to be with you on our honeymoon, Hildy, honest I did.

>> All I know is that instead of two weeks in Atlantic City with my bridegroom, I spent two weeks in a coal mine with John Kruptzky.

You don't deny that, do you, Walter?

>> Deny it?

I'm proud of it!

We beat the whole country on that story.

>> Well, suppose we did?

That isn't what I got married for.

Oh, what is the good?

Look, now look, Walter, what I came up here to tell you is that you must stop phoning me a dozen times a day, (Walter chuckles) sending me 20 telegrams.

>> I write beautiful telegram, don't I?

Everybody says so.

>> Are you gonna listen to what I have to say?

>> Look, look, what's the use of fighting, Hildy?

I'll tell you what you do.

You come back to work on the paper, if we find we can get along (Hildy groans) in a friendly fashion, we'll get married again.

>> What?

>> Certainly!

I haven't any hard feelings.

>> Oh, Walter, you're wonderful in a loathsome sort of way.

Now, will you please be quiet just long enough for me to tell you what I came up here to say?

>> Come on, we'll have some lunch, and you can tell me everything.

>> I have a lunch date already.

>> Surely, well, break it.

>> I cannot break it.

>> Surely you can- >> Will you take your hands off me?

What are you playing, osteopath?

>> Temper, temper!

>> Oh, listen, Walter.

You are no longer my husband and no longer my boss, and you're not gonna be my boss.

>> What's that supposed to mean?

>> (sighs) Just what I say.

>> You mean you're not coming back to work on the paper?

>> You are right, Mr. Burns, for the first time today.

>> Ah-ha, got a better offer, eh?

>> You bet I've got a better offer.

>> All right, go on, take it.

Work for somebody else!

That's the gratitude I get!

>> Oh, I wish you'd stop hamming.

>> What were you when you came here five years ago?

A little college girl from a School of Journalism!

I took a little doll-faced hick!

>> Well, you wouldn't take me if I hadn't been doll-faced.

>> Well, why should I?

I thought it would be a novelty to have a face around here a man could look at without shuddering.

>> Listen, Walter!

>> Listen, I made a great reporter out of you, Hildy, but you won't be half as good on any other paper, and you know it.

We're a team!

That's what we are.

(Hildy muttering) You know you need me and I need you, and the paper needs both of us.

>> Sold, American!

>> Oh, all right, go.

>> Listen, Walter, please.

The paper's gonna have to get along without me.

So will you.

It just didn't work out, Walter.

>> Well, it would have worked out if you'd been satisfied with just being editor and reporter.

But not you!

You had to marry me, spoil everything.

>> I wasn't satisfied?

I suppose I proposed to you.

>> Well, you practically did!

Making goo-goo eyes at me for two years until I broke down.

"Oh, Walter."

And I still claim I was tight the night I proposed to you.

If you'd have been a gentleman, you'd have forgotten all about it, but not you!

>> Why, you!

>> Oh, uh-uh.

(phone ringing) You're losing your eye.

You used to be able to pitch better than that.

Hello, yeah, what?

Sweeney?

Well, what can I do for you?

>> What, wait a minute, I'm not Sweeney, I'm Duffy!

>> Listen, Sweeney, you can't do that to me, not today, of all days!

>> What's the matter with you, are you a loony?

>> Jumping Jehosophat!

Now, listen, Sweeney, this is no time.

Oh, all right, I suppose so.

Yes, if you have to, you have to.

(phone slamming) >> He had do.

>> How do you like that?

Everything happens to me, 365 days in the year, and this has to be the day.

>> What's the matter, Walter?

>> Sweeney.

>> Dead?

>> No, he might just as well be.

The only man on the paper that can write, and he picks today to have a baby!

>> (chuckles) Well, he didn't do it on purpose, did he?

>> I don't care whether he did or not.

He's supposed to be covering the Earl Williams case and where he is?

Walking up and down at the hospital!

Is there no sense of honor in this country?

>> Oh, well, haven't you got anybody else?

>> No.

No, there's nobody else on the paper that can write.

This'll break me, unless.

Hildy!

>> No!

>> Hildy, you've gotta help me- >> Without a chance, Walter- >> Just this once, >> I won't fall, will you get going?

>> Get out of here, Duffy, I'm busy!

>> Now, look- >> Walter, please, save your breath.

>> Look, darling, this'll bring us together again, just the way we used to be.

>> That's just what I'm afraid of.

"Any time, any place, anywhere."

>> Ah, don't mock me, this is bigger than anything that ever happened to us.

Don't do it for me, do it for the paper!

>> Scram, Svengali.

>> Now, look, if you won't do it for love, how about money?

Forget the other offer, I'll raise you 25 bucks a week.

>> Listen to me, you great big bumble-headed baboon!

>> I'll make it 35 bucks and not a cent more!

>> Walter, are you gonna listen?

>> What, good grief!

How much is other paper gonna pay you?

>> There isn't any other paper!

>> Oh, well, in that case, the raise is off, you go back to your old salary (phone ringing) (Hildy groans) How do you like that?

You're trying to blackjack me.

>> Walter, I wanna show you something.

>> I'm busy- >> It's here, it's a ring.

>> Take a good look at it.

>> What, what?

>> Do you know what it is?

It's an engagement ring.

>> Engagement ring?

>> Uh-huh.

Tried to tell you right away, but you would start reminiscing.

I'm getting married, Walter, and I'm also getting as far away from the newspaper business as I can get.

>> What?

>> (laughs) I'm through.

>> You get married all you want to, Hildy, but you can't quit the newspaper business.

>> Oh, why not?

>> I know you, Hildy, I know what quitting would mean to you.

>> And what would it mean?

>> It would kill you.

>> (laughs) You can't sell me that, Walter Burns.

>> Who says I can't?

You're a newspaper man.

>> That's why I'm quitting.

I wanna go some place where I can be a woman.

>> You mean be a traitor.

>> A traitor?

A traitor to what?

>> A traitor to journalism!

You're a journalist, Hildy!

>> A journalist?

Now, what does that mean?

Peeking through keyholes, chasing after fire engines, waking people up in the middle of the night to ask them if Hitler's gonna start another war, stealing pictures off old ladies?

I know all about reporters, Walter.

A lot of daffy buttinskis running around without a nickel in their pockets, and for what?

So a million hired girls and motormen's wives will know what's going on?

Why, I. Oh, what's the use?

Walter, you wouldn't know what it means to, well, want to be respectable and live a halfway normal life.

Point is, I, I'm through.

>> Where'd you meet this man?

>> Bermuda.

>> Rich, eh?

>> Well, he's not what you'd call rich.

Makes about 5,000 a year.

>> What's his line?

>> He's in the insurance business.

>> Insurance business?

>> Uh-huh, well, that's a good, honest business, isn't it?

>> Oh, certainly it's honest.

It's also adventurous, it's romantic.

Listen, Hildy, I can't picture you being surrounded by policies, policies, (indistinct) policies doesn't make sense.

>> Well, I can, I can, and I like it, what's more!

Besides, he forgets the office when he's with me.

He doesn't treat me like an errand-boy either, Walter.

He treats me like a woman.

>> He does, does he?

>> Mm-hmm.

>> And how did I treat you, like a water buffalo?

>> I don't know from water buffaloes, but I do know about him.

He's kind, and he's sweet, and he's considerate.

(Walter chuckles sarcastically) He wants a home and children.

>> (chuckles) Sounds more like a guy I ought to marry, what's his name?

>> Ah, Baldwin, Bruce Baldwin.

>> Baldwin, Baldwin, oh, I knew a Baldwin, once.

A horse-thief in Mississippi.

Couldn't be the same fellow, could it now?

>> (laughs) You're not talking about the man I'm marrying tomorrow.

>> Tomorrow?

As soon as that?

>> Mm-hmm.

Well, at last I got out what I came up here to tell you.

Guess there isn't any more to the story.

So long, Walter.

>> So long, Hildy.

>> And better luck to you next time.

>> Thanks.

Oh, Hildy.

>> Uh-huh?

>> Well, you kind of took the wind out of my sail.

Look, honey, I just want to wish you everything I couldn't give you.

>> Well, thank you, Walter.

>> This other fellow.

Well, I'm sorry I didn't get a chance to see him.

I'm more or less particular about whom my wife marries.

(Hildy chuckles) Where is he?

>> Oh, he's right on the job, waiting for me out there.

>> Ah, do you mind if I meet him?

>> Ah, no, Walter, it wouldn't do any good, really.

>> Oh, now, you're not afraid, are you?

>> Afraid?

Of course not!

>> Well then, come on!

Let's see this paragon.

Is he as good as you say?

>> Ah, he's better.

>> Well, then what does he want with you?

>> (laughs) Now you got me.

>> I'm taking an hour, Mildred.

>> Okay.

>> Oh, oh, I am sorry, Hildy.

I suppose Bruce, what's his name?

>> Baldwin.

>> Baldwin, I suppose he opens doors for you.

>> He does, and when he's with a lady, he takes his hat off.

>> Oh, I am sorry.

>> And when he walks with a lady, he waits for her.

>> Oh, well, in that case.

(people chattering faintly) (typewriters clacking) >> Allow me.

>> Well, I can see right away my wife picked out the right husband for herself.

How do you do, sir?

>> Must be some mistake.

I'm already married.

>> Already married?

(Walter clicks tongue) Oh, Hildy, you should have told me.

>> Mr. Burns?

>> Congratulations again, Mr. Baldwin!

>> Oh, no, no, my name is- >> Mr. Burns!

>> Oh, excuse me, what do you want?

I'm terribly busy, just leave your card with the boy.

What did you say, Mr. Baldwin?

>> Mr. Burns.

>> My name is- >> Mr. Burns.

>> Some other time, I'm busy with Mr. Bruce Baldwin here.

I didn't hear what you said.

>> Look, I was gonna say, that my name- >> Excuse me, Mr. Burns.

>> Now look, what is it with you?

>> I'm Bruce Baldwin.

>> Can't you see that.

Oh, you're Bruce Baldwin?

>> Yes.

>> Well, who is he?

Who are you?

>> My name's Pete Davis.

>> Well, Mr. Davis, is this any concern of yours?

>> Oh, no.

>> Well, from now on, I'll thank you to keep your nose out of my affairs.

And don't let it- >> I just wanted to tell you- >> Happen again, that's all.

Mr. Baldwin, I'm terribly sorry about this mistake.

This is indeed a pleasure.

Oh, that's wrong, isn't it?

(laughs) Well, Bruce, you see, I thought, you don't mind if I call you Bruce, do you?

After all, we're practically related.

>> Bruce: No, not at all.

>> You see, my wife, that is your wife, I mean Hildy, oh, Hildy, you know, you led me to expect you were marrying a much older man.

>> Oh really?

And what did I say that led you to expect- >> Oh, don't worry about it.

I realize you didn't mean old in years.

(laughs) You always carry an umbrella, Bruce?

>> Well, er, it looked a little cloudy this morning.

>> That's right, rubbers, too, I hope?

Attaboy.

A man ought to be prepared for any emergency.

>> Well, Walter, I think we'd better be running along.

>> Yes, we'd better be going.

>> Where are we going?

>> I'm taking you two lunch, didn't you tell him, Hildy?

>> No, she didn't.

>> Well, I guess she just wanted to surprise you, Bruce.

After you.

(chuckles) After you, Hildy.

>> You're wasting your time, Walter, won't do you a bit of good.

>> No, no, I'm glad to do it, glad to do it.

(people chattering faintly) >> Well, hello, Gus.

>> Well, don't tell me it's you, Hildy!

>> It's none other.

How have things been?

>> Well, I can't complain.

>> Well, I can, I'm hungry, get me a roast beef sandwich, rare on white- >> Oh, sorry.

>> On white bread, Gus, over there, Bruce.

Look, right here.

>> And you, Hildy?

>> Oh, I'll have the same, I guess.

>> And you, sir?

>> Yes, that's all right for me.

>> Bring some mustard too, Gus.

>> Yes, Sir.

>> Ah, well, well, well.

(chuckles) So, you two are gonna get married, huh?

(Bruce chuckles) Well, how does it feel, Bruce?

>> Feels awful good, yes, sir.

>> Well, you're getting great little girl for yourself.

>> I realize that.

Things have been different for me ever since I met Hildy.

I've never met anyone quite like her before.

Everybody else I've ever known, well, you could always tell ahead of time what they were gonna say or do.

But Hildy's not like that.

>> No.

>> You can't tell that about her.

And that's nice.

>> Yes.

Well, you're getting something else too Bruce, you're getting a great newspaper man.

>> No, Walter.

(indistinct) >> One of the best I ever knew.

I'm sorry to see her go.

Darn sorry, Hildy.

>> I'd like to believe you meant that.

>> Well, I do mean it.

Listen, if you ever wanna come back to the newspaper business.

>> Which I won't.

Ah, well, in spite of everything, if I ever do, there's only one man I'd work for.

>> You bet your life, I'd kill you if you ever worked for anybody else.

(Bruce laughs) >> Now, you hear that, Bruce?

That's my diploma.

>> It must be quite a business of it's.

Hildy, are you sure you wanna quit?

>> Now, Bruce, what do you mean?

>> Well, I mean, if there's any doubt about it or there's anything that.

No, this is your chance to have a home and to be, like you said, a human being, and I wanna make you take that chance.

>> Certainly!

Why, I wouldn't let her stay.

No, no, she deserves all this happiness, Bruce, all the things I couldn't give her.

Yeah, all she ever wanted was a home.

>> Well, I'll certainly try to give her one.

>> I know you will, Bruce.

Where you gonna live?

>> Albany.

>> Albany, huh?

Got a family over there then?

>> Oh, just my mother.

>> Just your mother.

Hmm.

Oh, you gonna live with your mother?

>> Well, just for the first year.

>> Oh, well, that will be nice.

Yes, yes, a home with mother, in Albany too.

>> Mighty nice little town, Albany.

They've got the state capital there, you know.

>> Yeah, I know, yeah, well, we were there once.

(snorts) (Walter laughs) Listen, will you ever forget the night you brought the governor back to the hotel?

(Hildy chuckles) You see, I was in taking a bath.

Well, I came walking out (foot thuds) without.

(clears throat) Uh, she didn't know I was in town.

Well, Bruce, how is business out there.

Any better or is- >> Well, Albany's a mighty good insurance town.

Most people there take it out pretty early in life.

>> Yeah, well I can see why they would.

(foot thuds) >> Statistics show that most of our policies- >> You know, Bruce, I've got a feeling I ought to have taken out a little insurance.

Course, that really doesn't matter now that Hildy and I have, uh, well you know we've, uh, pfft, does it?

Or does it, what do you think?

Still, at that, it might have been a good idea if we, if I had taken out a little insurance?

>> Well, I honestly feel that way.

>> Yeah, I think so.

>> I figure I'm in one business that really helps people.

>> Yeah.

>> Of course, we don't help you much while you're alive, but, afterward, that's what counts.

>> Sure.

(laughs) I don't get it.

(foot thuds) >> Ouch!

>> Nice going.

>> I, uh, so sorry, Gus.

My foot must have slipped.

>> Oh, (chuckles) that's all right.

What would you like to drink?

>> Coffee, Gus.

>> Shall I put some rum in the coffee?

It's a nasty day.

>> Sure.

>> Oh, me too, Gus, please.

>> And you sir?

>> Uh, not for me, thanks.

>> Go on, Bruce, have one.

>> No, I have a lot to do this afternoon.

I have to buy the tickets and check the baggage.

>> Well, do it tomorrow, there's plenty of time.

>> We can't- >> But we're leaving today at four o'clock, taking the sleeper for Albany.

>> Oh, you a, you're leaving today at four o'clock, huh?

>> Hildy: Mm-hmm.

>> Say, that's only two hours.

>> That doesn't give us much time at that, Bruce.

>> No, and I've got a lot to do, I want to get- (Walter exclaims) >> Now, look what you did, look at that!

Isn't that silly, all down over my front.

>> Oh, that's nothing new, here.

>> Oh, no, never mind, I'll take it to Gus.

Hey, Gus!

Gus!

Do something about this, will you?

Call me to the telephone as soon as I get back to the table.

>> Sure.

>> Thanks, Gus, that's fine.

Thanks.

It's fine.

(Walter clears throat) I'm terribly sorry about that, that silly little.

Listen, Bruce, I, uh, let me get that straight, I must have misunderstood you.

You mean you're taking the sleeper today and then getting married tomorrow?

>> Oh, well, it's not like that.

>> Well, what is it like?

>> Oh, poor Walter, he'll toss and turn all night.

Perhaps you'd better tell him mother's coming along too.

>> Mother?

But your mother kicked the bucket- >> No, my mother, my mother.

>> Oh, your mother.

Oh, well, that relieves my mind.

>> Mm, it's cruel of us to let you suffer that way.

Isn't Walter sweet?

Always wanting to protect me.

>> Well, I admit I wasn't much of a husband, but you can always count on me, Hildy.

>> I don't think she'll need you very much, Mr. Burns.

I aim to do most of the protecting myself.

>> Mr. Burns?

>> What?

>> Telephone.

>> For me?

>> Yes, Sir.

>> That's strange.

Uh, pardon me.

>> You know, Hildy, he's not such a bad fellow.

>> No.

He should make some girl real happy.

>> Mm-hmm.

>> Quite happy.

>> He's not the man for you, I can see that, but I sort of like him.

He's got a lot of charm.

>> Well, he comes by it naturally.

His grandfather was a snake.

(Bruce laughs) >> Duffy, listen, is there any way we can stop the four o'clock train to Albany from leaving town?

>> Duffy: We might dynamite it.

>> Could we?

Oh, well, maybe we couldn't.

Oh, now get this.

Get ahold of Sweeney and send him outta town on a two-weeks vacation right away.

All right, keep your shirt on.

Hildy's coming back.

No, she doesn't know it yet, but I promise you she's staying here.

Now, listen, tell Louie to stick around the office, I may need him, goodbye.

>> Thanks, Gus.

>> Oh, this is bad business.

>> What's the matter, Walter?

>> Oh, the Earl Williams case.

>> Oh, yes, I've been reading about that.

>> Well, it's pretty bad.

>> What is the lowdown on it?

>> Oh, simple, honey.

Poor little dope who lost his job, and went berserk, and shot a cop who was coming after him to quiet him down.

Now they're gonna hang him tomorrow.

>> Oh, what a shame.

>> Your paper, you've been taking his side, haven't you?

>> Mm-hmm.

>> Well, if he was out of his mind when he did it, why doesn't the state just put him away?

>> (chuckles) Because it happened to be a colored policeman.

You know what that means, Hildy?

>> Mm-hmm.

The colored vote's very important in this town.

>> Yeah, especially with an election coming up, in three or four days.

>> That mayor.

He'd hang his own grandmother to be re-elected.

>> Well, I should think you could just show that the man wasn't responsible.

>> That's not so easy.

Hmm?

>> Mm.

Maybe it isn't so hard either.

>> Why?

What do you mean, Hildy?

>> Well, don't they have to have another expert examine him before they hang him?

>> Sure, a bird named Egelhoffer is gonna do it.

Well, he'll say the same as all the rest.

>> Suppose he does.

>> Well, what's your scheme Hildy?

>> Look, Walter, you get the interview with Earl Williams.

>> Uh-huh.

>> Print Egelhoffer's statement, and right alongside of it, you know, double column- >> Uh-huh.

>> Run your interview.

Egelhoffer says he's sane.

Interview shows he's goofy.

>> Oh, Hildy, you could do it.

You could save that poor devil's life.

>> Uh, uh, uh, no.

>> You could.

Ah, yeah, you're going away, I forgot.

>> That's right.

>> How long would the interview take?

>> Oh, about an hour for the interview, another hour to write it, that's about all.

>> Well, Hildy, we could take the six o'clock train if it'd save a man's life.

>> No, Bruce.

If you want to save Earl William's life, you'll write the interview yourself, you're still a good reporter.

>> Oh, Hildy, you know I can't write that kind of thing.

It takes a woman's touch, it needs that heart, that- >> Now, don't get poetic, Walter.

Get Sweeney, he's the best man you've got on the paper for that sob-sister stuff.

>> Poor Sweeney?

Duffy just told me his wife finally had twins.

Tsk.

Tsk.

Isn't that terrible?

Well, Sweeney went out to celebrate, and now we can't find him anymore.

So, Sweeney has twins, and Earl Williams gets hanged tomorrow.

>> Now, Walter look, it isn't- >> Well, you argue with her, you argue with her, otherwise you're going on a honeymoon with blood on your hands.

How can you have any happiness after that?

(Hildy chuckles) All through the years, you'll remember that a man went to the gallows, because she was too selfish to wait two hours.

I tell you, Bruce, Earl Williams's face'll come between you on the train tonight and at the preachers tomorrow and all the rest of your life.

>> Oh now, stop it, stop it.

>> Hildy!

>> Walter, shh, the whole place will hear you.

>> Stop what?

>> Walter, nah.

>> Huh?

>> I just remembered, Sweeney was only married four months ago.

(Walter laughing) (Hildy chuckles) >> All right, Hildy, you win, I'm licked.

>> Then Mr. Sweeney didn't have twins?

>> (chuckles) No, indeed.

The twins were Walter's, all his.

>> Oh, it was nothing.

Well come on, let's forget it.

Here, we'll start all over again, now I'll offer you two a business proposition.

>> We're not interested.

>> Well, you'll be interested.

Now you're a smart young man.

>> Don't listen to him, Bruce, I know him of old, from way back.

>> Excuse me, will you?

I'm talking to him.

Now look, Bruce.

You persuade Hildy to do the story, and you can write out a nice fat insurance policy for me, what do you say to that?

>> Oh, no, no, no, Mr. Burns.

>> Come on, Bruce- >> No, I wouldn't use my wife for business purposes.

>> Wait a minute, Bruce.

Walter, how big a policy?

>> Oh, 25,000.

>> More.

>> 50,000.

>> What's the commission on a $100,000 policy?

>> Oh, around $1,000, but Hildy.

>> What's wrong with $1,000?

>> Well, I couldn't.

>> We could use that money, Bruce.

How long would it take to get him examined?

>> Well, I could get a company doctor here in 20 minutes.

>> Well, now you're talking!

>> But I don't like the idea.

>> You keep out of this.

All right, Bruce.

Suppose you have Mr. Burns examined over in his office and see what they'll allow on that old carcass of his.

If his- >> Say!

I'm better than I ever was.

How do you like that?

>> That was never anything to brag about.

Now look, Bruce, I'll go back and change and dress, and after you get the check, you phone me.

I'll be in the Press Room at the Criminal Courts Building.

Oh, Walter?

>> What?

>> By the way, I think you'd better make that a certified check.

>> What do you think I am, a crook?

>> Yes, no certified check, no story, you get me?

>> It'll be certified.

Want my fingerprints?

>> No thanks, I've still got those.

>> Gus, how much do I owe you?

>> Thank you, dear.

Oh, Bruce.

>> Yeah?

Oh, I'm sorry.

>> That's all right.

How much money have you got with you?

>> You know, everything we have, $500.

>> Give me the 500.

>> But I have to buy the tickets.

>> I'll buy the tickets.

>> But I should.

>> Believe me, dear, I know what I'm doing, he'd get you in a crap game or something.

>> Hildy, I don't gamble.

>> I know a lot of people that never did anything till they met Walter Burns, please, dear.

(Bruce chuckles) >> All right, but remember, it's everything we have in the world.

>> I know, I know.

Shh, shh.

>> Oh, Bruce, have you got change of 10?

>> I just- >> You see what I mean, don't you Bruce?

(Bruce chuckles) >> I just gave everything I had to Hildy, all I've got left is- >> Oh, come on, Hildy.

>> Not me, sign it.

>> Oh, all right.

For the waiter.

(Hildy chuckles) (Bruce laughs) >> Come on, Bruce, really.

(chips clinking) >> I'll open for a dime.

>> I'm in.

>> I'll stay.

>> Right.

>> Wilcox, 3.400 (phone ringing) >> I'm in.

>> Me too.

(pipe tapping) >> Say, take that one of you birds, will you?

You aren't doing anything, Ernie.

>> I'll take two.

>> And one for dealing.

>> Hey, what's the matter with you guys?

Crippled or something?

(men chattering faintly) Press Room?

Huh?

Wait a minute.

Hello, Sarge, McCue talking, hold the line, will you?

What?

Hello?

No, I told you, this is the Press Room in the Criminal Courts Building.

>> Oh, Jake, new lead on the hanging.

This alienist from New York, Doctor Max J Egelhoffer.

Egelhoffer, yeah.

He's going to interview Williams in about half an hour, in the sheriff's office.

>> Must be about the 10th alienist they've put on Williams.

If he wasn't crazy before, he would be by the time 10 of those babies got through psychoanalyzing him.

Uh, give me the desk.

>> Is this guy Egelhoffer any good?

>> Figure it out for yourself.

He's the guy they was sent to Washington to interview the brain trust.

>> Blimey.

>> He said they were sane.

>> Bid another dime.

>> Here's the situation on the eve of the hanging.

>> I'll pick up a little fudge.

Uh, this is Murphy.

More slop on the hanging.

>> A double-guard is being thrown around the jail, municipal buildings, railroad terminals, and elevated stations, to prepare for the expected general uprising of radicals at the hour of execution.

>> Ready?

Uh, the sheriff has just put 200 more relatives on the payroll, to protect the city from the Red Army, which is leaving Moscow in a couple of minutes.

>> Trouble is, when the real red menace shows up, sheriff will still be crying wolf.

What do you got?

>> Is that good?

>> Hildy: Sure looks good from here.

>> Well, Hildy.

>> Hello, Hildy.

>> Hildy!

>> When did you get back?

>> How are you, Ernie.

>> Hi, Hildy, glad to see you.

>> Glad to see you, Mack.

>> Hey, where'd you get the hat?

>> Listen, I paid 12 bucks for that hat.

>> Going back to work?

(chuckles) >> No, it's just a farewell appearance.

I'm going into business for myself.

>> Yeah?

What doing?

>> I'm getting married tomorrow.

>> What?

(men muttering) >> Again?

>> You're kidding me.

>> Are we invited to the wedding?

>> Well, I might use you for a bridesmaid, Roy.

(men laughing) >> Uh-oh.

>> How are you Murphy?

>> Hildy.

>> What are you getting married for, Hildy?

>> None of your business.

>> You ain't fooling us are you, Hildy?

>> Fooling?

Look what I've got in here.

Three tickets to Albany, on the six o'clock train tonight.

>> What do you mean, "Three"?

>> For me and my beau and, and hats off, boys, his sweet darling ma.

>> Aw.

That's nice.

(man whistles) >> What kinda marriage is that?

>> It's gonna be all right.

I'm gonna settle down.

I'm through with the newspaper business.

>> Can you picture Hildy singing lullabies and hanging out diapers?

(all chuckling) >> Swapping lies over the back fence.

>> Oh, sour grapes.

>> She'll be back as soon as she gets tired of beating rugs.

>> I'm not gonna beat any rugs, I don't-- (bell ringing) >> Hey.

That's Third and Jefferson, isn't it?

Where that central school is.

>> No school this time of day.

>> Why do you care?

You quit.

>> Yeah, you said you were through.

>> Well, I just thought it might be a good fire, that's all.

(indistinct thudding) Hey, what's that?

>> Just practicing for the Williams party in the morning.

>> You're gonna miss a nice hanging, Hildy.

>> Not interested.

>> Tell them to pipe down.

(weight bag thuds) >> Hey, keep quite down there!

How do you expect us to get any work done?

>> Officer: Aw, shut up!

>> Very little respect for the press around here.

(weight bag thuds) Say, did anybody phoned me?

>> Not that I know of.

>> Nary a jingle.

>> Say, Hildy, does Walter know you're getting married?

>> Just had lunch with him.

>> Ernie: Does he know you're quitting?

>> Yes, I told him.

Any more questions?

>> Shall I deal you in, Hildy?

>> No, I haven't got time.

I have to do a yarn on Williams.

Did he know what he was doing when he fired that gun?

>> Well, if you ask us, no.

If you ask the state alienist, the answer is yes.

>> Who is he?

What's he do?

>> He was a bookkeeper.

He starts at $20 a week and after 14 years, he gradually worked himself up to 1,750.

>> Got more gum?

>> No.

McClusky Company goes out of business and Williams loses his job.

>> Dime over.

>> Can't get another?

>> Nope.

>> I'm in.

>> I'm in.

So, he starts hanging around the park, listening to a lot of soapbox spellbinders making phony speeches and begins to believe them.

>> And make some of his own.

>> Up a dime.

>> All right.

(Walter exhales) >> Anything else, Doc?

>> No, that'll be about all, Mr. Burns.

>> Everything okay?

>> You have nothing to worry about.

>> Good, good.

How are you doing, Bruce?

>> Uh, there's just one more thing, Mr. Burns.

>> Yes, what?

>> Good day, Mr. Burns, Mr. Baldwin.

>> Goodbye, Doc, thanks very much.

>> See ya, doc.

>> Who's the beneficiary?

>> Uh, uh, excuse me, excuse me?

>> Well, that is, in case of your death, who do we pay the money to?

>> Why, Hildy, of course.

>> Oh, I don't know.

That'd make me feel pretty funny.

>> Oh, now why shouldn't I make Hildy my, uh, whatever it was, you know?

>> Well, I feel I should take care of her.

>> But you will take care of her, Bruce.

(chuckles) Say, if that doctor's right, I'm good for a long time yet, yeah?

Look, Bruce, this is a debt of honor with me.

I was a bad husband to Hildy.

She could have claimed a lot of alimony if she'd wanted to, but she wouldn't take any.

She had it coming to her, but she was too independent.

>> Well, I'm independent too.

>> I know you are, Bruce, I know you are.

But look, now you just figure it this way.

I'm good for, well, we'll say, at least 25 years yet.

Well, by that time, you'll probably have made enough, so the money won't mean anything to you.

But suppose you haven't made good, Bruce?

What about Hildy's old age?

Think of Hildy.

Ah, I can see her now.

White-haired.

Lavender and old lace.

Can't you see her, Bruce?

>> Yes.

Yes, I can.

>> She's old, isn't she?

Now, Bruce, don't you think that Hildy's entitled to spend her last remaining years without worries of money?

Of course you do, Bruce.

>> Well, of course, if you put it that way.

>> Walter: And remember, I love her too.

>> Yes, I'm beginning to realize that.

>> And the beauty of it is, she'll never have to know until I've passed on.

Ah well, maybe she'll think kindly of me after I'm gone.

>> Gee.

(nose blowing) Make me feel like a heel coming between ya.

>> No, no, Bruce, you didn't come between us.

It was all over for her, before you came on the scene.

For me- >> Hey, Walter.

>> It'll never be.

What do you want?

>> Can I see you a minute, please?

>> Excuse me, Bruce.

>> You get it, you get it, you get it?

>> Yeah.

>> Well, where is it, come on?

>> There.

>> Certified?

>> Sure.

>> Good.

>> But Walter, that's for $2,500.

>> Right.

>> Well, Bruce, here we are.

Certified and everything.

>> Certified, gosh.

I'm afraid Hildy will feel ashamed to think she hasn't trusted you.

(Walter chuckles) But she'll know some day.

>> Oh yeah.

Oh, Bruce, you promised to phone her as soon as you got the check.

>> Oh, yes, yes, of course.

>> Get me Hildy Johnson, Press Room, Criminal Courts Building.

Sit down, Bruce.

The operator will get her for you.

>> Thank you.

>> Excuse me, will you?

>> Yes.

Hello?

Yes, I'll wait.

Thank you.

(phone ringing) >> Start hollering.

Hildegaard!

>> Thank you.

Hildy Johnson speaking.

(men chattering faintly) Oh, hello Bruce.

>> I got a dime.

>> Well, what about me?

We've been playing for an hour.

>> Take it easy, will you?

(phone cord clicks) Hello, Bruce.

Uh, did you get the check?

Is it certified?

>> Certified and everything.

I have it right in my pocket.

>> Oh, in your pocket?

That's fine.

Wait a minute, maybe it isn't so fine.

Bruce, where are you?

>> I'm in Mr. Burns' office.

>> Is he there?

Well, now look, Bruce, I don't want you to carry that check around in your pocket.

Well, because.

Yes, yes, I know all that, but, uh, Bruce, uh, there's an old newspaper superstition that the first big check you get, you put in the lining of your hat.

In your hat!

It brings good luck.

>> I've been a reporter for 20 years, I never heard that before.

>> Neither did I. I know it sounds silly dear, but do it for me, please.

>> Open for a dime.

>> Yes, yes, right now.

>> (laughs) All right, just a minute.

There you are, I've done it.

Anything else?

Oh yes, oh, all right.

Uh- huh.

Yes, yes, I'll tell him, goodbye.

>> Well, everything all right, Bruce?

>> Oh, yes, Hildy said to tell you she'll get right to work.

>> Fine!

>> Well, I must be going now.

>> (chuckles) All right.

Oh, Bruce, you don't wanna forget this, it might rain, you know.

>> Oh, thanks.

>> Oh, you don't mind if I don't show you out do you?

>> No, no, not at all.

>> I'm so busy in here.

>> Not at all.

Well, thanks for everything.

>> Excuse me, what did you say?

>> I said thanks for everything.

>> Nonsense, don't thank me, I should thank you.

(Bruce chuckles) So long.

>> So long.

(people chattering faintly) (typewriters clicking) >> Man: Copy boy!

>> Hello, Cooley.

>> Hello, Hildy, what are you doing around here?

>> I want an interview with Earl Williams, how about a little service?

>> Huh-uh.

No more interviews.

>> Why not?

>> Sheriff's orders.

Besides, the doctor's coming over, can't do it.

>> Oh, say, is this your money?

>> Why, I don't think it is.

>> 20 bucks.

>> Yeah, I guess maybe it is.

>> That's what I thought.

Come on, I'm in a hurry.

>> Hey, Joe, open up here.

Now, Hildy, don't- >> I won't be long.

(gate slams) (lock clicking) >> Hello, Earl.

>> Hello.

>> My name's Johnson.

Mind if I talk to you for a few minutes?

>> No, I haven't anything else to do.

>> Yes.

That's right.

>> So, you see, I couldn't plead insanity, because I'm just as sane as anybody else.

>> You didn't mean to kill that policeman, Earl.

>> Why, of course not.

It's against everything I've ever stood for.

They know it was an accident.

I'm not guilty, it's, it's just the world.

>> I see what you mean.

Sorry about the lipstick, Earl.

Now look, after you lost your job, what did you do?

>> I tried to find another job.

>> I mean, how did you spend your time?

>> Oh, I used to sit around the park, any place.

Oh, I don't smoke.

>> When you were in the park, uh, did you hear any of those speeches?

>> You mean those fellows that talk too much?

>> Yeah.

>> Well, I didn't pay any attention.

You see, I was thinking- >> Did you hear anything they said?

>> Yes.

>> Well then, is there anything you remember, anything in particular?

>> Well, there was one fellow, he- >> What did he talk about?

>> He talked about production for use.

>> Production for use?

>> Yes, he said everything should be made use of.

>> Makes quite a bit of sense, doesn't it?

>> Yes, I like him.

He was a good speaker.

>> Now look, Earl, uh, when you found yourself with that gun in your hand and that policeman coming at you, what did you think about?

>> I don't know exactly.

>> You must have thought of something.

>> Well.

>> Could it have been, uh, production for use?

>> I don't know.

I- >> What's a gun for, Earl?

>> A gun?

>> Hmm.

>> Why, to shoot of course.

>> Well, uh, maybe that's why you used it.

>> Maybe.

>> Seems reasonable.

>> Yes, yes it is.

Why, you see, I've never had a gun in my hand before, and that's what a gun's for, isn't it?

Maybe that's why.

>> Sure it is.

>> Yes, that's what I thought of, production for use.

It's simple, isn't it?

>> Very simple.

>> There's nothing crazy about that, is there?

>> No, nothing at all.

>> You'll write about that in your paper, won't you?

>> You bet I will.

Who sent you the roses?

>> Ms. Mollie Malloy.

She's a wonderful person.

>> That her picture?

>> Yes, she's beautiful isn't she?

>> Mm-hmm.

>> Time's up, Hildy.

>> Oh, all right, Guess that's all.

>> I like talking to you.

Goodbye, Miss Johnson.

>> Goodbye, Earl.

Good luck.

>> Three land-ladies boxing.

>> You did well, didn't you?

>> Righto.

>> I wonder what the Post is gonna do without Hildy.

>> Yeah, do you suppose Walter Burns will ever let her go?

>> I don't know.

>> Remember what he did to Bill Fenton when he wanted to go to Hollywood.

Had him thrown in jail for arson.

>> Forgery.

>> Was that it?

>> Yeah.

Give me some change.

>> Hey, Mack.

Hey, Stairway Sam!

>> Huh?

>> Yeah, would you mind turning on some lights?

>> Sure.

>> It's so dark, you can't see anything in this place.

>> Hey, who's this guy Hildy's gonna marry?

>> I don't know, Bruce something.

>> I give the marriage six months.

>> Why?

>> Because she won't be able to stay away from the paper any longer than that.

Did you see her when that bell went off?

>> Ah, that, it must be pretty nice to be able to walk out of a place and quit.

>> I bet.

>> Yeah, I had a publicity job offered to me last year.

Should've taken it.

>> It's what I'd like, a job on the side.

>> A desk and a stenographer.

I wouldn't mind a nice big blonde.

>> With big brown eyes.

>> I'll bet you 10:1 it'll last six months.

She's just like us, or we wouldn't be sticking around waiting for that guy to- >> Well, well, Miss Mollie Malloy.

>> Well, hello, Mollie.

>> Hi, Mollie.

>> Hello, Mollie, how's Trix?

>> I've been looking for you tramps.

>> Come to pay a call on Williams?

>> He's right across the courtyard.

>> You better hurry up.

>> Nice bunch of roses you sent to Earl.

What do you want done with them tomorrow morning?

(men chuckling) >> A lot of wise-guys, ain't ya?

>> You're breaking up the game Mollie, what do you want?

>> I came to, I came to tell you what I think of ya, all of ya.

>> Keep your shirt on.

>> If you was worth breaking my nails on, I'd tear your face wide open.

>> What are you sore about, sweetheart?

Wasn't that a swell story we gave you?

>> Yeah, what do you want?

(men muttering faintly) >> You crumbs have been making a fool out of me long enough.

I never said I loved Earl Williams and was willing to marry him on the gallows.

You made that up.

And about my being his soulmate and having a love nest with him.

>> Well you did, didn't you?

>> You've been sticking around that cuckoo ever since they threw him in the death house.

>> That's a lie.

>> Yeah, everybody knows you're his girlfriend.

>> I met Mr. Williams just once in my life.

>> How many?

>> Two.

>> When he was wandering around in the rain without his hat and coat on.

Like a sick dog.

The day before the shooting.

>> Give me one.

>> I went up to him like any human being would, and I asked him, "What's the matter?," and he told me about being fired, after being on the same job for 14 years.

>> Who bets?

>> That's 20 cents.

>> And I brought him up to my room, because it was warm there.

>> Murphy: Oh, put it on a phonograph.

>> Ah, listen to me, please.

I tell you, he just sat there talking to me all night.

He never once laid a hand on me.

And in the morning, he went away.

And I never saw him again, till that day of the trial.

(sobs) Sure, I was his witness!

>> And what a witness.

>> That's why you're persecuting me.

Because Earl Williams treated me decent and not like an animal!

Well, I said so.

>> (indistinct) The Press Room, we're busy.

>> Why don't you go see your boyfriend?

>> Yeah, he's got a nice room.

>> He won't have it long.

He'll have to call for 7:00 a.m. >> (gasps) It's a wonder a bolt of lightning don't come down and strike you all dead.

(weight bag thuds) (typewriter clacking) What's that?

>> Wilson: They're fixing up a pain in the neck for your boyfriend.

>> (gasps) Shame on you.

Shame on you!

(sobs) A poor little fellow that never meant nobody no harm, sitting there this minute with the angel of death beside of him, and you're cracking jokes!

>> All right, now, you're gonna get out of here, now come on.

>> You take your hands off of me!

>> Come on, Mollie, let's get out of here.

>> Aren't they inhuman?

>> I know, they're newspaper men.

>> All they've been doing is lying!

(sobs) All they've been doing is writing lies!

>> I know.

I know, Mollie.

>> Why won't they listen to me?

Why won't they listen to me?

(objects thuds) (phone ringing) >> Hello?

Who?

Hildy Johnson?

Hang on, she'll be back in a minute.

>> You guys want to play any more cards?

>> I got nothing.

>> No, what's the use?

I can't win, anyway.

(chips clattering) >> Gentlemen of the press.

>> Hildy, phone for you.

>> Hello?

Oh, hello, Bruce.

What?

Where are you?

You're where?

Well, how did that happen?

Never mind, never mind, I'll be right down.

Oh, I'm sorry, Pete!

Sorry!

(Pete groans) >> Ooh!

>> Hiya, Sheriff, how you doing?

>> Ow, my shin, my back!

What's going on around here?

>> Bruce was in trouble.

>> Lioness rushes to defend cub.

>> Man forgets hanky, Mama goes to wipe nose.

>> I still give that marriage six months.

>> Well, I don't know what you fellas are talking about.

>> What do you want, Pete?

>> Oh, uh, uh, I got the tickets for the hanging here, boys.

>> Hey, Pete.

Pete!

>> Huh, what?

>> Pete, why can't you hang this guy at five o'clock instead of 7:00?

>> Roy: Sure, it won't hurt you, and we can make the city edition.

>> Oh, well now, that's, that's kind of raw, Roy.

After all, I can't hang a man in his sleep just to please the newspaper.

>> No, but you can reprieve him twice, so the hanging's three days before the election, can't you?

>> Yeah, you can run on a law-and-order ticket, you can do that, all right.

>> Honest, boys, I had nothing to do with those reprieves.

>> Yeah, how do we know there won't be another reprieve tonight?

>> What if this Egelhoffer finds Williams insane?

>> Well, he won't find him insane, because he isn't.

He's just as sane as I am.

>> Saner.

(men laughing) >> Ah, now be serious, boys, after all, this is a hanging and it's gonna go according to schedule.

Seven o'clock in the morning and not a minute earlier.

After all, there's such a thing as being humane, you know?

>> Murphy: All right, Pinky, where you want a favor?

>> And please don't call me Pinky!

>> Roy: Why not?

>> Because I got a name, see?

And it's Peter B. Hartwell.

>> What's the B for?

>> Bull!

(men laughing) >> But I'm innocent, I didn't do anything.

I never stole a watch in my life.

>> I know you didn't, Bruce, I know you didn't.

All right, Mike, come on, let him out.

>> I can't, Hildy, he's accused of stealing a watch, and they found the watch on him.

>> But I never stole.

>> Now.

Please, Bruce.

And who accused him?

Diamond Louie, the biggest crook in town.

>> I know, it's no good, Hildy.

>> Now, don't Hildy me.

Are you gonna let him out, or aren't you?

>> No.

>> I never stole it!

>> Bruce, please, all right, you're not.

Well, perhaps you'd better read the Post in the morning.

>> I can't imagine who'd do a thing like that to me.

I can't think of any enemies I have.

>> I'm sure you haven't any, Bru, hey, you got the check?

>> Oh, yes, I have it right here.

(chuckles) That's a funny superstition you newspaper people have.

>> Yes, isn't it?

>> About being arrested, at first I thought maybe Walter Burns might have something to do with it, but then, of course, I realized he couldn't have.

>> Why?

>> Well, he's a very nice fellow, Hildy.

>> Oh.

>> Oh, yes, I found that out.

>> What's the matter?

>> I've lost my wallet!

>> Yes, well, Bruce, never mind, I have the money.

You'd better give me the check too.

>> And that picture of us in Bermuda.

>> Don't bother, Bruce, you'll find lots of things missing.

No, Bruce dear, you wait here.

I'm not taking any more chances.

I'll be down in three minutes.

We're taking the next train.

Oh.

Sorry.

>> "And so into this little tortured mind came the idea that that gun had been produced for use, and use it he did.

But the state has a production-for-use plan too.

It has a gallows.

And at 7:00 a.m., unless a miracle occurs, that gallows will be used to separate the soul of Earl Williams from his body, and out of Mollie Malloy's life, will go the one kindly soul she ever knew."

That's as far as she got.

(man whistles) But, I ask you guys, can that girl write an interview?

>> She'll do till somebody else comes along.

>> I don't think it's very ethical, reading other people's stuff.

>> Where do you get that ethics stuff?

You're the only one who'll swipe any of it.

>> I still say anybody that can write like that ain't gonna give it up permanently, to sew socks for a guy in the insurance business.

Now, I give that marriage three months, and I'm laying 3:1.

Any takers?

>> I'll take that bet.

Hey, it's getting so a girl can't leave the room without being discussed by a bunch of old ladies.

Hello, Post?

Yeah, get me Walter Burns, will you, please?

>> Ah, don't get sore, Hildy, we were only saying a swell reporter like you wouldn't quit so easy.

>> (chuckles) This is Hildy Johnson.

Oh, I can quite all right, without a single quiver.

I'm gonna live like a human being, not like you chumps.

Is that you, Walter?

Oh, I've got some news for you.

Yes, yes, I got the interview all right, but I've got some more important news.

Yeah, perhaps you'd better get a pencil and take it down.

All ready?

Now get this, you double-crossing chimpanzee, there ain't gonna be any interview and there ain't gonna be any story.

And that certified check of yours is leaving with me in 20 minutes.

I wouldn't cover the burning of Rome for you, if they were just lighting it up.

And if I ever lay my two eyes on you again, I'm gonna walk right up to you and hammer on that monkey skull of yours till it rings like a Chinese gong.

Oh, so you don't know why I'm angry with you?

Well, perhaps you'd better get Louie to tell you the story of his watch, and there's just one other little thing I want you to listen to.

(paper rustling) (paper ripping) Do you hear that?

That's the story I wrote.

Yes, yes, I know we had a bargain.

I just said I'd write it, I didn't say I wouldn't tear it up.

It's all in little pieces now, Walter, and I hope to do the same for you some day!

And that, my friends, is my farewell to the newspaper game.

(men chattering faintly) I'm gonna be a woman, not a news-getting machine.

I'm gonna have babies, and take care of them, and give 'em cod liver oil, and watch their teeth grow, and, and, oh dear, if I ever see one of them look at a newspaper again, (phone ringing) I'm gonna brain him!

Where's my hat?

>> Hello?

Hello?

Oh, Mr. Burns.

Yes, she's still here.

>> Give me that!

(phone cord clicking) >> And another thing.

Oh, phooey!

(Hildy grunts) (phone crashing) Where is my?

Oh, there it is.

>> Hello, Doctor.

Sorry to be late.

>> Well, that's quite all right.

>> (laughs) These boys from the newspapers, they take up so much of my time.

You know, they wanted me to hang Williams at their convenience.

Oh, hello, Earl.

>> Hello.

>> These newspapers.

What they did to me in Chicago.

>> (laughs) I quite believe it.

>> Always after me for interviews.

>> Yes, me too.

>> Of course, I did rather promise to make them some sort of statement when I finished here.

Uh, you don't mind, do you?

>> Uh, well, that's hardly ethical, Doctor.

>> Oh?

>> You see, all statements are supposed to come from me.

>> Oh, yes, I see.

Well, uh, uh, what do you say to giving them some sort of joint interview?

I could discuss some of the psychological aspects of the case, and you- >> Uh, you mean we'd have our pictures taken together?

>> Yes, yes, shaking hands.

>> Oh, a splendid idea!

>> Max: Of course, I don't take a very good picture.

>> Peter: Oh, that doesn't matter, Doctor, the publicity is the main thing.

>> Doctor, I'm getting awful tired.

Can't I go back to jail again?

>> Oh, I'm awfully sorry.

I forgot you were there.

Uh, no, Mr Williams, we've some further questions for you.

Sheriff, do you mind extinguishing the light, please?

>> Of course, Doctor.

>> It'll help us along what we have to do over here.

Now let me see.

Mr, Williams, you know, of course, that you're gonna be executed.

Now, who do you feel is responsible for that?

>> I'm innocent, it wasn't my fault.

>> Well, Murph.

>> Send us a postcard, kid.

>> That I'll do.

>> Goodbye, Hildy.

>> Au revoir.

>> Bye.

>> So long, Johnson.

>> So long.

>> When will we see you again, Johnson?

>> Next time you see me, I shall be riding in a Rolls Royce, giving interviews on success.

>> Goodbye.

>> So long, you wage-slaves.

>> Bye.

>> Really cute.

>> Oh, and if crawling up fire escapes, and getting kicked out of front doors, and eating Christmas dinners in one armed joints, don't forget your pal, Hildy Johnson!

>> Men: We won't, Hildy.

>> And in the roads beyond unfolds, and the- (gun firing) (alarm ringing) (guns firing) >> Hey, look out, it's a jail-break!

(siren wailing) >> What's the matter?

What's happened?

(gun firing) (glass shattering) Hey, watch where you're aiming, will you?

>> Officer: Watch the gate!

He's trying the gate!

>> Who got away, who was it?

>> Officer: Earl Williams!

(men chattering faintly) >> Who'd he say?

>> Earl Williams!

(guns firing) >> Hello, hello, hello, hurry up, hurry up.

This is important!

>> Gimme the desk!

>> Flash, Earl Williams just escaped!

>> Jail break.

>> Don't know yet.

>> Call you back.

>> Williams took a powder!

>> And over the wall.

>> I don't know anything yet.

>> Call you back.

(footsteps thumping) (gun fires) >> Hello, Post, get me Walter Burns, quick, Hildy Johnson.

(gun fires) Walter?

Walter, Hildy.

Earl Williams just escaped from the County Jail.

Yeah, yeah, yeah.

Don't worry, I'm on the job!

(phone rattling) (footsteps thumping) (sirens wailing) >> Hey, Cooley!

Hey!

(engines rumbling) Hey!

Hey!

Hey, wait a minute!

Oh!

Now, Cooley, I wanna talk to you.

(phones ringing) >> This is Endicott, give me a rewrite.

He ain't here.

Hello, Gill?

Here's the situation now.

You ready?

Williams was taken over to the Sheriff's private office, to be examined by this Professor Egelhoffer, and in a few minutes, he shot his way out.

No, nobody knows where he got the gun.

He went upstairs to the infirmary and got out through the skylight.

He must have slid down the rain-pipe to the street.

No, nobody knows where he got it, or if they do, they won't talk.

>> Hello, sweetheart, gimme the desk.

>> Crime Commission offers $10,000 reward for Williams' capture.

>> Murphy talking.

>> Yeah.

>> No clue yet as to William's whereabouts.

>> That's it.

Okay.

>> No, no.

Here's a little feature though.

There's been an accident about a tear bomb.

Yeah, tear bomb, tear bomb.

Criminals cry for it.

>> I don't know, look, it's time to make a statement.

>> This tear bomb went off unexpectedly, in the hands of Sheriff Hartwell's Bombing Squad.

>> What went off?

>> Yeah, gimme the desk.

>> The following deputies were rushed to the hospital- >> A fine friend you are!

>> Their names are Merwyn D. Wilkerson, the Mayor's brother-in-law- >> After all I've done for you.

>> Howard Shuster, the Sheriff's uncle on his mother's side.

>> Wilson: Hello, Jim?

Sidelights on Sheriff Hartwell's manhunt.

>> William Mansfield, the Sheriff's landlord, and Lester Winthrop, who married the Sheriff's niece.

You remember, the very homely dame.

>> All right, you ready?

>> Call you back.

>> Mrs. William Ives, age 55, scrub lady, while scrubbing the 8th floor of the Commerce Building, was shot in the left leg by one of Sheriff Hartwell's deputies.

>> Look, I'm not- (gun firing) >> There goes another scrub lady.

>> Wilson: Nah, it was only a flesh wound.

They took her to the hospital.

Call you back.

>> McCue speaking, gimme the desk.

>> Hey, Mac, any dope on how he escaped?

>> Maybe the sheriff let him out, so Williams could vote for him.

>> Oh!

>> A man matching the description of Earl Williams was seen boarding a south bound- (guns firing) >> Call you back!

>> Oh!

>> Thought you'd gone?

>> I thought so, too.

Get me Walter Burns, quick.

(door slams) Walter?

Walter, listen.

I've got the whole story on how Williams got that gun and escaped, and I got it exclusive.

Yeah, yeah, that's right, and it's a pip.

(chuckles) It cost me 450 bucks to tear it outta Cooley.

>> Never mind that, what's the story?

>> Well, just a minute, and I'll give you the story, but I'm telling you first, I had to give him all the money I had on me and it wasn't exactly mine.

Well, it's Bruce's money, and I want it back.

>> Bruce's money?

Sure, sure, sure, you'll get it.

Now what's the story?

I'll send the money right down to you.

I swear it on my mother's grave.

>> All right, here's the, wait a minute, your mother's alive.

>> My grandmother's grave.

Don't be technical, Hildy.

What's the story?

>> Well, you get that money down here.

All right, all right, here's your story.

The jailbreak of your dreams.

It seems this expert, Dr. Egelhoffer, the profound thinker from New York, was giving Williams a final sanity test in the sheriff's office.

You know, sticking a lot of pins in him, so that he could get his reflexes.

Well, he decided to reenact the crime exactly as it had taken place, in order to study William's powers of coordination.

Well, I'm coming to it.

Of course, he had to have a gun to reenact the crime with, and who do you suppose supplied it?

Peter B. Hartwell, B. for brains.

(Walter laughs) >> No kidding.

(laughs) >> I tell you, I'm not kidding.

I'm not good enough to make this one up.

Well, the sheriff gave his gun to the professor, and the professor gave it to Earl, and Earl shot the professor right in the classified ads!

No, ads!

(chuckles) Aint it perfect?

(chuckles) If the sheriff hadn't rolled the red carpet and loaned Williams an umbrella, it couldn't of been more ideal.

Who?

Oh, no, no.

Egelhoffer wasn't badly hurt.

They took him to the County Hospital, where they're awfully afraid he'll recover.

>> Oh, that's great work, Hildy.

Huh?

Oh, stop worrying about the money.

I'll see you get it in 15 minutes.

>> Well, I better get it in 15 minutes.

Bruce is downstairs waiting in a taxicab for me, and we're in a hurry.

>> Hold on a minute.

>> Hey, Vange, come here.

There's a guy waiting in a taxi, in front of the Criminal Courts building.

His name is Bruce Baldwin.

>> What does he look like?

>> He looks like, uh, that fellow in the movies, you know, uh, Ralph Bellamy.

>> Oh, him?

>> Can you handle it?

>> I've never flopped on you yet, have I?

>> Come on, get going.

You only got about two minutes.

Hurry.

Yes, dear, well, I'm sorry to keep you waiting.

How much was it again?

$450?

Oh, just a second.

Louie, come here.

I need $450 worth of counterfeit money.

>> You can't carry that much, boss.

>> No, just the 450 counterfeit.

Where can I get it?

>> Oh, I got that on me.

>> Oh, call it a coincidence.

Well, take it over to Hildy.

Hello, it's coming right over.

Yeah, I'm sending it over with Louie.

Well, thanks for your story, dear, and good luck on your honeymoon.

>> No, no, never mind the thanks, just see that money gets here.

>> Ah, Hildy, you still here?

>> No, I'm in Niagara Falls.

>> McCue speaking.

Emil?

I got a good feature for you on the manhunt.

Ready?

Mrs. Phoebe DeWolfe, age 61 1/2, South State Street corner, gave birth to a pickaninny in a patrol wagon with Sheriff Hartwell's special rifle squad acting as nurses.

(chuckles) Phoebe was walking along the street, when, that's right, yeah.

So they coax her in the patrol wagon, start a race with the stork.

When the pickaninny was born, the rifle squad examined him carefully to see if it was Earl Williams.

Well, they knew was hiding somewhere.

(laughs) (phone ringing) Yeah.

And here's the payoff.

They named the kid Peter Hartwell DeWolfe, in honor of the sheriff.

>> Pressroom.

Bruce, I thought you were downstairs in a- >> First kid ever born on a manhunt.

>> What?

Arrested again?

What for this time?

>> Uh, well, uh, they called it mashing.

No, I didn't, Hildy!

I was sitting right in the taxi where you left me, and the young lady seemed to have a dizzy spell, and I just, huh?

Well, uh, she's kind of, uh.

Huh?

Yes, she's a blonde.

Yes, very blonde.

>> Never mind, I know how it happened, just a minute.

Get me Walter Burns, Hildy Johnson.

Bruce, where are you?

27th Precinct.

Hold on a minute, will you?

Walter you!

Well, he was there a minute ago, but I.

(sighs) Eh, "I'm sorry, I can't locate him, Ms.

Johnson."

Why, that double-crossing, hello, no, not you.

Bruce, I can't get there right away.

How about 20 minutes?

Well, you see, I have to wait here for the, uh, honey, I'll tell you when I see you.

Oh, if I ever get my two hands again on that Walter Burns.

>> Hold on a minute, Emil.

>> So help me, I'm gonna tear him wide open.

>> Anything I can do to help, Hildy?

>> How much money have you got on you, Mac?

>> $1.80.

>> 64 cents.

>> Welcome to it.

>> Thanks, you better buy an annuity.

>> What's that, Emil?

No, I can't give you an official statement.

No.

Wait a minute, here's the Mayor.

Maybe he'll give us one.

How about a statement, Mayor?

>> Don't pester me now, please, I've got a lot on my mind.

>> His Honor won't say anything.

>> Have you seen Sheriff Hartwell?

>> It's hard to tell you, Your Honor.

You see, there's so many cockroaches around here.

(men laughing) >> Wooh, wait a minute, wait a minute, how about a statement, your Honor?

>> Sure, we go to press in 20 minutes.

>> I can't help that.

I've nothing to say, not at this time.

>> Ah, just a moment, please!

What do you know about the escape?

>> How'd he get out?

>> Where'd he get the gun?

>> Wait a minute, boys, not so fast.

>> Well, give us a statement on the election then.

>> What effect will it have on the voters?

>> None whatsoever.

How can an unavoidable misfortune like this have any influence on the upright citizens of our fair city?

>> Bologna!

>> Mr. Mayor, please, is there a Red Menace or ain't there?

>> How did Williams get outta that rubber jail of yours?

>> Are you going to stand the gaffe?

Or have you picked out somebody to be responsible?

>> Is there any truth in the report that you're on Stalin's payroll?

>> Yeah, the senator claims you sleep in red underwear.

(men laughing) >> Nevermind the jokes.

Don't forget I'm the mayor of this town!

>> Murphy: Oh, wait, wait, wait.

Come here, Pete.

>> Hartwell, I wanna see you.

>> What's the deal?

How'd he get away?

(men chatter indistinctly) >> Where'd he get the gun?

>> Excuse me, boys >> Hi, your Honor, any statement on the red uprising tomorrow?

>> What red uprising?

>> There'll be no red uprising!

>> Well, the governor says the situation calls for the militia.

Gimme a rewrite.

>> You can quote me as saying anything the governor says is a tissue of lies.

>> Yes.

>> Hello, Jake.

Here's a red hot statement from the governor.

He claims the mayor and the sheriff have shown themselves to be a couple of eight year olds playing with fire.

(men laughing) Yeah.

You can quote him as follows, "It is a lucky thing for this city, that next Tuesday is election day, as the citizens will thus be saved the expense of impeaching the mayor and the sheriff."

That's all, call you back.

Nice to have seen you, Mayor.

>> Excuse me, boys, I've got so much-- >> Wait a minute.

>> Quit stalling, Petey.

>> Who engineered this getaway?

>> Was it the Reds?

>> No.

>> Who was it?

You?

>> Me?

No!

Now just a minute, and I'll tell you, I've got him located.

>> Who?

Williams?

>> Where?

Where is he?

>> Out on Second Street, where he used to live.

I just got a tip.

>> Well, why didn't you say so?

>> The rifle squad's just going up.

(men chatter indistinctly) You'll be able to catch it, if you hurry.

Look, please.

>> Pete, I wanna talk to you.

>> Please, Fred, look, I have got so much to do.

Now, see here, Fred.

>> Pete, you're through!

>> "Through"?

You mean I'm through?

>> I mean I'm scratching your name off of the ticket Tuesday, and I'm running Sherman in your place.

>> Reform the reds.

>> Yeah, but Fred, I- >> Williams isn't a red, and you know it.

>> But there are a lot of communist sympathizers around, and I thought that if I got a slogan like that, I could- >> By, I know it, but that's got nothing to do with this case.

(door knocking) Do you realize there are 200,000 votes at stake and if Earl Williams don't hang, we're gonna lose 'em?

>> We're going to hang him!

Come in!

He can't get away.

>> Fred: What do you mean he can't get away?

He did get away, didn't he?

What do you want?

>> I, uh- >> What do you want?

>> Are you Sheriff Hartwell?

>> Peter: I'm he, what is it?

>> (chuckles) You're a hard man to find, Sheriff.

I have a message here from the governor.

He said- >> What's from the governor?

>> It was a reprieve for Earl Williams.

>> For who?

>> Earl Williams reprieve.

>> And you said there wasn't gonna be a reprieve.

>> I didn't think there- >> It frightens me to think of what I'd like to do to you.

Who else was there when he gave you this?

>> Nobody, he was out fishing.

>> Get the governor on the phone.

>> No, he's not there, he's out duck shooting.

>> Oh, the blasted nimrod's- >> Bought a red hat, it looks so cute.

>> Fishing and duck shooting.

A guy who's done nothing for the last 40 years, but play pinochle gets elected governor, and right away, he thinks he's a Tarzan.

>> Read that!

"Insane," he says!

Why, he knows very well Williams isn't insane.

>> Well, I never met the man- >> Ah, pure politics.

>> It's an attempt to ruin us.

(Fred mutters indistinctly) Fred, we've gotta think fast, what are we going to tell the reporters?

>> Tell 'em the party's through in this state on account of you.

>> Ah, Fred!

>> And as an afterthought, (phone ringing) tell 'em I want your resignation now.

>> Hello?

Yes, yes, this is Hartwell.

What?

Where?

Where?

Holy Moses, hold the wire!

>> What is it?

>> They've got him!

They've got Williams.

They've got him surrounded, the rifle squad have, out at his house.

>> Tell 'em to hold the phone.

>> Hold, I did, hold the wire.

>> Cover up that transmitter!

>> Cover up that- >> No, now listen.

You never arrived with this.

>> Yes, I did.

Don't you remember?

>> Wait a minute.

>> I came through that door, and I thought he was Sheriff- >> How much do you make?

>> I mean, huh?

>> What's your salary?

>> $40 a week.

>> No, don't out me off.

>> How would you like to make $350 a month?

That's almost $100 a week!

>> No, I couldn't afford that.

Who, me?

>> Well, who do you think!

Now, they need a fella like you in the City Sealer's office.

>> In the what?

>> City Sealer's!

>> You mean I should work in the city?

>> Yes.

Yes.

>> No, wait a minute, I'm in conference.

>> No, my wife wouldn't want me to do that.

>> Yeah?

Why not?

>> Well, you see, my wife lives in the country with my family.

>> That's all right, you can bring her in here!

We'll pay all the expenses.

>> No, I don't think so.

>> For heaven's sake, why not?

>> Well, I got two kids going to school, and if they changed towns, they lose a grade, then I- >> No, they won't.

They'll skip a grade, and I'll guarantee you that they'll graduate with highest honors!

>> Hold your horses, will ya?

>> Yeah?

>> Hurry up, Fred.

>> Now what do you say?

>> It puts me in kinda peculiar hole.

>> No, it doesn't.

Now, remember, you never delivered this.

>> Yes, I did.

>> No, you didn't.

You got caught in the traffic or something.

>> No, I came around the back.

>> Well pretend you did.

Now, get outta here and don't let anybody see you.

>> Wait a minute.

>> Yes, but how do I know that- >> Come in and see me in my office tomorrow.

What's your name?

>> Pettibone, what's yours?

>> Pettibone?

>> Nah, really.

>> No, no, no, all you've got to do is to lay low and keep your mouth shut.

>> Well, I'm tired, anyhow.

>> Here, go to this address.

A nice, homey place, they'll take care of ya.

Just tell 'em Fred sent you.

Here's $50 on account.

>> Peter: Will you wait, Olsen?

I'll tell you in one minute!

>> Oh, you forgot to tell me what a City Sealer's- >> I'll explain it all tomorrow!

>> Is it hard?

>> No, no, easy, very easy.

>> Well, that's good, because my health isn't, my wife is- >> Well, we'll fix that too.

>> My wife?.

>> Yeah, fix anything.

Go ahead.

>> Peter: Fred?

Fred, they're still on the phone.

>> All right.

Tell 'em to shoot to kill.

>> What?

>> You heard what I said.

>> But the reprieve, Fred.

If they- >> Go ahead.

Do as I tell ya.

>> Oh, all right.

Hello, Olsen.

Shoot to kill.

That's the orders.

Pass the word along.

>> $500 reward.

>> $500 to the man who does it.

All right, I'll be right over.

>> Hi, Hildy.

>> You double-crossing hyena.

I'd like to- >> What's the matter, Hildy?

>> Don't give me that innocent stuff.

What did you pull on Mr. Baldwin this time?

>> Who, me?

>> Yes, you and that albino of yours.

>> You talking about Evangeline?

>> None other.

>> She ain't no albino.

>> She'll do till one comes along.

>> She was born right here in this country.

>> If she tries anything else, she'll have to stay right here- >> I don't know- >> And you too, and it won't be on a phony charge either.

Did you bring that money?

>> Louie: Oh, yeah, 400 bucks.

>> 450.

>> (chuckles) All right, you can't blame a guy for tryin'.

Hey, you better give me a receipt.

>> I'll give you a scar.

>> I got plenty of them.

>> Oh, and I'll take Mr. Baldwin's wallet, too.

>> Mr. Baldwin's what?

>> His purse (clicks fingers) come on, come on, Louie.

>> (chuckles) All right, Hildy, I'll do it for you, because I like you.

But you better tell that finance of yours to be more careful in these hard times, you know what I mean?

>> Sure, sure.

You want to loan him a pair of your brass knuckles too?

>> Now, don't talk that was, Hildy.

Here, I'll take that.

I'll take it to the station.

So long.

>> Wait a minute!

Wait a minute!

You'll take it over to the station all right.

You'll take it to the 27th Precinct and tell the cops how this all happened.

>> I couldn't do that, Hildy.

Burns would have me in Alcatraz in an hour!

>> That's not a bad idea.

>> Here, catch!

>> Louie!

(footsteps thumping) Hello, Operator?

Hildy Johnson.

Will you get me the- (wood creaks) >> Drop that phone.

>> Never mind.

>> You're not gonna tell anybody where I am.

>> Put that gun down, Earl.

You don't wanna shoot me, Earl.

I'm your friend, remember?

I'm gonna write the story on your production for use.

>> Oh, yes, that's right, production for use.

>> You don't wanna hurt your friends, do you?

>> Don't move!

Maybe you're my friend and maybe you're not, but don't come any nearer.

You can't trust anybody in this crazy world.

(phone ringing) >> I don't blame you, Earl.

If I were you, I wouldn't trust anybody, either.

>> Don't do that!

Put it back, put it back.

You know, if you try any.

>> Wanna do that.

You don't wanna kill anybody.

>> No, you're right, I don't wanna kill anybody.

>> That's what I thought.

>> Wait a minute!

Where are you going?

>> I was just gonna close the door, so nobody'd see you.

>> No, you weren't.

You were gonna get somebody.

But I don't want that.

All I want is to be left alone.

>> I won't get anybody.

>> Yes, you will.

You'll get 'em after me again!

I won't let you do that!

(shade rolling) I.

(exclaims) (gun fires) (trigger clicking) >> Gimme, gimme that.

>> I guess I fired all the shells.

(pants) I'm awful tired.

I couldn't go through- >> Earl!

Earl, that shot.

They'll know that you're here.

>> Earl: I don't care.

I'm not afraid of dying.

>> Stop it!

>> I was tellin' the fella that when he handed me the gun.

>> Keep quiet, will you?

>> Wakin' me up in the middle of the night, talking to me about things they don't understand.

>> Shut up!

>> I wish they'd take me back and hang me.

>> They will if you don't keep quiet.

>> I couldn't go through another day like this.

>> Well, maybe you think I could.

Gimme Walter Burns, quick!

(phone ringing) Tell him I need him!

(groans) Hello?

Hello!

Oh, but Bruce, please.

I know I said I'd be down in 20 minutes, but something terrific has happened, hold on.

Walter, Hildy, come over here right away!

Wait, Bruce, just a second, I'll explain everything.

Walter, get this, I've got Earl Williams here.

Yeah, right in the Press Room.

Honest, on the level, hurry, I need you, right!

Bruce, best thing in the world has happened.

I've captured Earl Williams, you know, the murderer.

(door knocking) Stay down there, Earl.

Wait a minute!

Listen, Bruce, I'll be down, but just as soon as I hand him over to the paper, I'll be right down.

(door knocking) (indistinct shouting) Bruce, I can't!

Bruce, don't you realize- >> Come on, let me in!

>> Who is it?

>> It's me, Mollie Malloy!

Open the door!

>> What do you want, Mollie?

>> I gotta find.

Where is everybody?

>> Well, they're not here, they've all gone.

>> Oh, please tell me where they've gone, please tell me.

>> Mollie, I don't know, and I'm awfully busy.

Do you mind running along?

>> Oh, look, they got him surrounded, they're gonna shoot him like a dog!

>> They were looking for you too.

If you're smart, you'll get out of here.

>> I don't care!

You gotta tell, you gotta, I ain't afraid of- >> All right, Mollie, I'll tell you where they are, they're down at Center Street, Center and 4th.

>> Oh, that's where he used to- >> Mollie?

Mollie, don't go.

>> Oh, come in, Mollie, draw up a chair.

(door slams) (lock clicks) >> Hello, Mollie.

>> How did you get in here?

>> Down the pipe.

I didn't mean to shoot him.

Really, I didn't.

>> Shh!

Be quiet.

>> You believe me, don't you, Mollie?

>> Sure, I believe you.

>> Thanks for the roses.

They were beautiful.

>> That's all right, Mr. Williams.

(sobs) >> Oh!

(Mollie mutters indistinctly) >> Don't cry.

>> Mollie, for heaven's sake, don't you get hysterical, you need to be quiet.

>> I'm gonna get him outta here.

>> Sit down!

Are you crazy?

You wouldn't get half-way down the hall without being seen.

>> Yeah, but they'll find him.

>> I know it!

I know it!

I'm trying to think before those reporters come back.

>> Let 'em take me, what difference does it make?

>> No!

No, I'll never let 'em.

(door rattling) >> Hey, who locked the door?

(door knocking) >> (gasps) Now it's too late.

>> No, it isn't, no, it isn't.

Earl, get in this desk.

>> Oh, what's the use?

>> Come on, get in here.

(door knocking) >> We'll get you some time.

Shh!

>> Oh, what if they find him?

>> Mollie, pull yourself together.

Mollie, please, sit down.

(door pounding) >> Hey, come on!

>> All right, all right, I'm coming!

Oh, what are you trying to do?

Kick the door down?

>> Uh, you're getting kinda exclusive, ain't you?

After all, we got some phone calls to make.

>> Hey, what's she doing up here?

>> Run down and get some smelling salts, will you?

>> Hey, what's the matter?

>> What happened?

>> Came up here and had hysterics, felt pretty sick.

>> How you feel, kid?

>> I don't feel so good.

>> Get you some water?

>> I'll get it.

>> Do anything for you?

>> No.

>> Ah, you don't look so sick to me.

>> You didn't bump into Williams, did you?

>> Ain't you funny?

>> Yeah, where is he?

>> Let me alone, will ya?

>> Okay.

Gimme the desk.

>> No harm in asking.

>> Hello, Jim?

Yeah, it's a false alarm.

They surrounded the house, all right, but they forgot to tell Williams, and he wasn't there.

>> Some Halloween going on outside.

The whole police force standing on it's ear.

Oh, hello, Hildy, I thought you were gone.

>> I'm waiting for some money from Walter.

>> What a chase.

Get me Emil.

>> No news on Williams, yet.

>> Murphy: Murphy talking, gimme the desk.

>> Any news, boys?

>> Yeah, I've never been so tired in my life.

>> What, where?

Melrose Station?

Huh?

All right, connect me.

Hello, Mollie, how are ya?

Hold it a minute.

Hey, fellas, this looks good.

>> Yeah, call you back.

>> An old lady just called the detective bureau and claims Williams is hiding under her piazza.

>> Tell her to stand up.

>> Well, we looked every other place.

>> Did you wanna go out on it?

>> I have to stick around.

I'll cover this end for you.

>> Ah, I spent a $1.40 on taxi cabs already.

>> Let's not do any more going out.

>> Nevermind, Sarge, tear it up.

>> Murphy: Say, who pulled the shades down?

>> I did, they were throwing those lights around.

(shade rolling) (man whistling) >> You know, I got a hunch Williams ain't anywhere they've been looking for him.

He might be right here in this building somewhere.

>> Sure, sure.

Hanging around like a duck in a shooting gallery.

>> There's that skylight he got out of, but how did he reach the ground?

>> I'm pretending there ain't any Earl- >> He could jump over to this roof.

It's only about four feet.

>> Yeah, once he get to the roof, he could slide down a drainpipe.

>> And come in any one of these windows on this side.

>> Sure, the story's gonna walk right in the window.

>> The masterminds at work.

Why don't you boys go home?

Maybe Williams will come and call on you.

>> Wouldn't it be funny if he's in this building somewhere?

>> Oh, why not search the building?

Everybody take a floor.

>> No, no.

>> I'll take this one.

>> I'm not gonna wonder all over this place.

>> Well, what.

(sighs) >> A great bunch of reporters you are.

The biggest story in two years, and you're all too lazy to go out.

>> Say, Hildy, if I know you, you seem pretty anxious to get rid of us.

You trying to scoop us or something?

>> What, are you crazy, on my own time?

>> Maybe Mollie's been giving her the story on how Williams got the gun.

>> Yeah, did you smuggle that gun in to Williams, Mollie?

>> Ah, no, I didn't do nothing.

>> Come clean, Mollie.

>> Come on, let us in on it.

>> Hildy: Will you let the girl alone, she said- >> Well?

>> Hildy: Mrs. Baldwin, Mother.

>> Don't you mother me, playing cat and mouse with my poor boy, keeping him locked up.

>> I can explain- >> Making us miss two trains, and you're supposed to be married tomorrow.

>> I'll be with you in five minutes.

>> You don't have to go with me at all.

Just give me Bruce's money, you can stay here forever as far as I'm concerned.

>> Oh, Mother, please.

>> You and that murderer you caught.

>> What's that?

>> What did you say?

>> What murderer?

>> Which one of these men is it?

They all look like murderers to me.

>> Wait a minute, Hildy, what murderer did you find?

>> I don't know what she's talking about.

I never said any such thing.

>> I'm quoting my son, and he has never lied to me.

>> Come on, Hildy.

>> Yeah, come on.

>> That's ridiculous in the first place.

No, I never said anything like that.

>> Yes, you did.

>> No, I didn't.

I said I trying to find the murderer.

>> Come on, Hildy.

>> Yeah, quit stalling.

>> She's got it all balled up.

Can't you see that?

>> Who are you holding out on?

>> Nobody.

>> Come clean, will you.

>> Now let me go, will ya?

I don't know where he is.

Please!

>> Stop it, stop it!

What are ya asking her for?

She don't know where he is.

I'm the only one that knows.

>> Where is Williams?

>> Try and find out.

>> Wilson: Come on, Mollie, talk.

>> Talk?

Now you want me talk.

>> Sure.

>> Oh, ain't that funny.

You wouldn't listen to me before, not even for a minute, and now you want me to talk.

>> Hildy: Don't tell 'em anything, Mollie.

>> (sobs) Let me alone, I know what I'm doing.

>> Stay out of this, Hildy.

>> Why didn't you listen to me?

Why?

>> Come on, cut that out.

>> You keep your hands off of me!

>> Where is he, Mollie?

Where is he?

>> What do you wanna know for?

So you can write some more lies, so you can sell some more papers!

>> Never mind that.

>> All right, all right, I'll tell you what I'll do, I'll give ya a story.

I'll give ya a wonderful story!

(sobs) Only this time it'll be true!

You'll never find him now!

>> Men: No!

(Mollie screams) >> Get the ambulance, somebody.

>> Oh.

>> Get an ambulance, somebody.

>> She's dead.

>> No, she isn't killed, she's moving.

(footsteps thumping) >> Darling, did you see that?

>> Where is he?

>> She jumped out the window.

>> I know that, where is he, I said.

>> Anyway, she isn't dead.

>> Come to, Hildy, where have you got Williams?

>> He's in the desk.

>> Huh?

>> Hildy: Can't believe she didn't kill herself.

>> How you doing?

>> Get me out, I can't stand it.

>> Keep quiet, you're sitting pretty.

>> What's in there?

>> Who are you?

>> What are you doing?

>> Who is she?

>> This is Mrs. Baldwin, Bruce's mother.

>> What are you doing?

>> Shut up!

>> I won't shut up!

You're doing something wrong!

>> Mother, please!

>> Take her outta here!

>> What?

>> Wait a minute, Walter.

>> Fine!

Louie!

>> Yes, boss?

>> Take the lady over to Polack Mike's.

>> What?

>> My name's Louie Polinso.

(Mrs. Baldwin screaming) >> Walter!

>> Lock her up, see she doesn't talk to anyone along the way!

>> Walter, you can't do this!

>> Louie: What do I tell 'em?

>> Tell 'em it's a case of DT's!

>> Don't worry, Mother, this is only temporary!

Walter, let go of me.

>> Where do you think you're going?

>> I'm going after Mother, then I'm going to get Bruce out of jail.

Walter, why did you have to do this to me?

>> Get Bruce outta jail?

How can you worry about a man who's resting in nice, quiet police station, while this is going on?

Hildy, this is war, you can't desert me now.

>> Oh, Walter, will you get off that trapeze?

You've got your story right over there on the desk.

Go on, smear it all over the front page.

Earl Williams captured by the Morning Post.

I covered your story for you, and I got in a fine mess doing it.

Now, I'm getting out.

>> You drooling idiot, what do you mean you're getting out?

>> Just what I said.

>> There are 365 days in a year one can get married.

>> Hey.

>> How many times you got a murderer locked up in a desk?

Once in a lifetime.

Hildy, you got the whole city by the seat of the pants!

>> Sure, I know, I know.

>> You know, you know, you've got the brain of a pancake!

That isn't just a story you're covering, it's a revolution!

This is the greatest yarn in journalism since Livingstone discovered Stanley!

>> It was he other way around.

>> Oh, well, don't get technical at a time like this.

Do you realize what you've done, huh?

You've taken a city that's been graft-ridden for 40 years, under the same old gang, and with this yarn, you're kicking 'em out.

They're giving us a chance to have the same kind of government New York's having under LaGuardia!

Listen, honey, if I didn't have your best interests at heart, do you think I'd waste my time arguing with you?

You've done something big, Hildy, you stepped up into a new class.

>> Huh?

>> We'll make such monkeys out of those ward healers next Tuesday, nobody'll vote for 'em, not even their wives.

>> Expose 'em, eh?

>> Certainly, we'll crucify that mob.

Will keep Williams under cover until morning, so the Post can break the story exclusive, then we let the Governor in on the capture, share the glory with him.

>> I get it, I get it.

>> You'll kick over the whole City Hall like an apple-cart.

You got the mayor and Hartwell backed against a wall.

You put one administration out and another in.

This isn't a newspaper story, Hildy, it's a career!

And you stand there belly-aching about whether you catch an eight o'clock train or a nine o'clock train!

>> But, Walter, I never figured it that way.

>> Ah, you still a doll-faced hick, that's why.

>> Gee, we'd beat the white-haired boss.

>> Sure, they'll be naming streets after you, Hildy Johnson Street!

There'll be statues of you in the parks.

The movies'll be after you, the radio!

By tomorrow morning, I'll betcha there's a Hildy Johnson cigar!

I can see the billboards now.

It says, "Light up with Hildy Johnson!"

>> Oh, Walter, will you stop that acting?

>> Huh?

>> We got a lot to do.

>> Now you're talking!

>> We can't leave Williams in here.

>> We'll take him over to my private office.

Which is our phone?

>> That one on the end.

>> Oh.

>> How are you gonna take him?

They'll see him.

>> Not if he's inside the desk.

We'll carry the desk over.

Hello?

>> You can't move that desk.

It's crawling with cops outside.

>> All right, we'll lower it out of the window with pulleys.

Now, quit stalling.

Get the typewriter over here.

Come on, start pounding out a lead.

>> How much of this stuff do you want on it?

>> All the words you got.

Hello, give me Duffy!

>> Hey, Walter?

>> What?

>> Can I call the mayor a bird of prey?

>> Call him anything you like.

>> How about the time he had his house painted by the Fire Department?

>> Give him the works.

>> Ah-ha!

>> Hello, Duffy!

Get set!

(typewriter clacking) We got the biggest story in years.

Earl Williams captured by the Morning Post exclusive!

Yeah, and I want you to tear out the whole front page.

That's what I said, the whole front page out!

Never mind the European war!

We got something a whole lot bigger than that.

Hildy Johnson's writing the lead, I'll give it to you as soon as she's finished.

And listen, Duffy, get ahold of Butch O'Connor, tell him to come up here right away with half a dozen of his wrestlers.

Yeah, Butch O'Connor.

What?

Well, I got a desk I want moved.

Never mind what- >> Hildy!

>> What the deuce do you want?

>> Oh, hello, Bruce.

>> Hildy!

>> What's that?

No, no, never mind the Chinese earthquake, for heaven's sake.

>> Hildy, I just wanna ask you one question.

>> Bruce, how did you get out of jail?

>> Well, not through any help of yours.

>> Now, listen, buddy, you can't come in here, we're busy.

>> I'm not talking to you!

I had to wire Albany for $100, so I could get out on bail.

>> No!

>> Look, I don't care if there's a million dead.

>> I don't know what they're gonna think up there in Albany, they had to send the money to the police station!

>> Oh, for Pete sake, Hildy, come on!

We're waiting for that story!

>> Ah, we'll explain everything to them, Bruce.

>> Where's mother?

She said she was coming up here.

>> Uh, she left.

>> No, I can't hear you, Duffy.

>> Where'd she go?

>> Out some place.

>> No, no, junk the Polish corridor!

>> Hildy, tell me where my mother was going!

>> Uh, she couldn't say.

>> Oh, never mind that, this is more important.

>> Did she get the money from you?

>> Oh, no, no, she left in a hurry.

>> I'll take that money, Hildy.

>> All right, Bruce, right there in my purse.

>> I've decided I can handle things around here, and I'll take that certified check, too.

>> I'll give it to you, Bruce.

Here, here's the tickets, and you'll find your money in the wallet.

>> My wallet?

This is my wallet!

Say, there's something funny going on.

Hey, what are you doing?

>> Just wanted to look at it.

(typewriter clacking) >> Hildy, I'm, Hildy?

>> What?

What'd you say?

Hildy, I'm taking the nine o'clock train.

>> Sure, sure.

>> Did you hear what I said?

I said I'm taking.

>> Both: The nine o'clock.

>> Oh, Bruce, I've put it in here!

>> Hey, let her alone, will you, buddy?

>> Will you do me a favor, Bruce, please?

>> Hildy, I just want you to answer me one question.

You don't wanna come with me, do you?

>> I need that!

>> Listen to me, Hildy, you don't, do you?

>> No, take all those Miss America pictures off page six.

>> Hildy, please tell me, please tell me the truth!

>> Ah, wait a minute.

>> If you ever loved me, Hildy.

>> Now look here, my good man!

>> You shut up, Burns!

>> Now, how can I do anything- >> Mr. Burns to you!

>> With all this going on!

>> You're doing all this to her I know that.

>> Yeah.

>> She wanted to get away from you and everything you stand for, but you were too smart!

>> What?

>> You caught her and changed her mind!

>> Take Hitler and stick him on the funny page!

Now, let me ask you, Mr. whatever your name is!

>> Bruce: For a man like him.

>> No, I am not, but Bruce, can't you see that something's happened?

Wait.

I'll tell you everything.

>> Tell him?

You'll tell him nothing.

He's a spy, you fool!

>> I am not a spy.

>> Don't be ridiculous.

>> Come on, Hildy, you're coming with me right now!

>> Oh, Bruce, give me just a second, can't you?

Don't you see this is the biggest thing in my life?

>> Keep quiet, will you!

>> I see.

I'll keep.

I'm like something in the ice box, aren't I?

>> Yeah!

>> You just don't love me, that's all.

>> Oh, now, that isn't true!

Just because you won't listen, you say I don't love you.

Now, you know that isn't the point at all!

>> Come on, what else- >> The point is that you never intended to be decent and live like a human being!

>> What's that?

>> All right, all right, if that's what you wanna think.

>> Oh, H. Sebastian jumping- >> I see what's going on now.

>> I'm trying to concentrate!

>> Bruce: You're just like him and all the rest.

>> Hildy: Sure, sure, that's what I am.

>> What?

What?

No, no, leave the rooster story alone, that's human interest.

Did you get ahold of Butch O'Connor yet?

>> Look, if you had any sympathy or understanding- >> Well, get ahold of- >> I understand, all right.

I understand.

>> Wait, wait, just a minute.

There's only one question I wanna know.

>> What?

>> Walter?

>> What?

>> The mayor's first wife, what was her name?

>> You mean the one with the wart on her?

>> Right.

>> Fanny.

What did you say, Duffy?

>> Ah!

Hildy, I don't think you ever loved me at all.

>> Oh, never mind that, you're not working for the advertising department.

>> But remember, if you change your mind, I'm leaving on the nine o'clock train.

>> You want me, Bruce- >> Hold on, Duffy, hold on.

>> You gotta take me as I am, instead of trying to change me into something else.

I'm no suburban bridge player.

I'm a newspaper man!

>> That's the stuff, Hildy, keep it coming as fast as you can.

Get back in there, you mock turtle!

Hello, Duffy, did you tell Butch and his gang to take a taxi?

It's a matter of life or death?

Good, stay on this wire.

Butch is on his way over.

All we gotta do, is hold out for 15 minutes.

>> The boys will be back, when they're coming in here to phone.

>> I'll handle 'em.

Ah!

Ah, now the moon's out.

(typewriter clicking) (desk knocking) (desk knocking) >> Fine, three taps is me, don't forget!

How you doing?

Got enough air?

>> Not very much.

>> That better?

(desk slams) You're sitting pretty.

How's it coming, honey?

>> Oh, all right I guess.

Huh?

Where's Bruce?

>> Bruce?

>> Yeah.

>> Oh, he went out.

>> Well, is he coming back here?

>> Certainly he's coming back, didn't you hear him?

What have you got so far?

Let me hear it.

>> All right.

>> "While hundreds of Sheriff Hartwell's paid gunmen stalked through the city, shooting innocent bystanders, spreading their reign of terror, Earl Williams was lurking less than 20 yards- >> Wait a minute, wait a minute, aren't you gonna mention the Post?

>> What?

>> Doesn't the paper get any credit?

>> Oh, I did that!

Right there in the second paragraph.

>> Well, who's gonna read the second paragraph?

Listen, honey, for 10 years, I've be telling you how to write a newspaper story and that's what I get?

>> Oh, I'm sorry.

(door rattling) (door knocking) >> Bensinger: What's the idea of locking this door?

>> Who's that?

>> Bensinger.

That's his desk.

>> Open the door, will ya?

>> That's just swell.

(door knocking) >> Listen, what did you say his name was?

>> Bensinger, of the Tribune.

>> Open up!

>> Tribune, huh?

>> Who's in there?

Haven't you any sense than to, uh hello, (chuckles) hello, Mr. Burns.

Well, quite an honor having you come over here.

>> Walter: Hello, Bensinger.

>> Oh you know my.

(men chuckling) Excuse me, I just wanna get my- >> You know, you know, it's quite a coincidence, seeing you tonight.

Isn't it, Hildy?

>> Yes, yes.

>> How do you mean?

>> Well, as a matter of fact, I was talking to our Mister Duffy about you just this afternoon.

>> Really, well, nothing detrimental, I hope.

>> On the contrary, on the contrary!

That was one swell story you had in the paper this morning.

>> Oh, did you, uh, did you care for the poem, Mr. Burns?

>> Uh, the poem?

>> Mm.

>> The poem was great!

>> I like the ending especially.

"And all is well outside his cell, but in his heart, he hears the hangman calling and the gallows falling, and his white-haired mother's tears."

Heartbreaking.

>> Uh-huh.

>> That's fine.

Now, how'd you like to come and work for me?

>> What?

>> Yes!

We can use a man like you.

All we've got now are a lot of low-brows like Johnson here.

>> Are you serious, Mr. Burns?

>> Serious?

Wait a minute.

Listen, Duffy!

Duffy, I'm sending you Mr. Bunzinger over to see you.

>> Uh, Bensinger.

>> Oh yeah.

Mervyn, isn't it?

>> Yeah, no, Roy, Roy V. >> Certainly.

Roy V. Bensinger, the poet.

Well, of course you wouldn't know!

You probably never heard of Shakespeare, either!

(all laughing) Now, now look, I want you to put Mr. Bensinger on the staff right away.

How much are you getting on the Tribune, Roy?

>> (scoffs) 75.

>> I'll give you 100 and a byline.

Now, you give him everything he wants, you understand?

Okay, Now look, Roy.

I want you to hustle and write me a story from the point of view of the escaped man.

He hides, cowering afraid of every sound, of every light.

He hears footsteps, his heart going like that, and all the time, they're closing in.

Now get the sense of the animal at bay!

>> Sorta Jack London style?

>> Exactly!

>> I'll just get my rhyming dictionary.

>> It doesn't have to rhyme, doesn't have to rhyme.

>> Oh.

Well, I'm deeply grateful, Mr. Burns.

>> Good.

>> It's very, uh, oh, oh, if you should have an opening for a war correspondent, I parley a little French, you know?

>> I'll keep ya in mind.

>> Au revoir, mon capitaine.

>> Bon jour!

(door slams) (lock clicks) >> (laughs) "His white haired mother's tears," that's the tops, isn't it?

(typewriter clacking) Now, listen, that fella Bensinger is on his way over to see you right now.

Handle him with kid gloves.

Put him to work writing poetry.

No, no, we don't want him.

Just stall him along until the extra's out, then tell him his poetry smells and kick him downstairs.

>> Double-crossing swine!

>> (laughs) You said it!

That'll teach him a lesson.

He won't quit his paper without giving notice after this.

>> I mean you!

>> Me?

>> You'd double cross anybody.

Wait a minute.

>> What?

>> I just remembered!

Bruce isn't coming back here!

He said he was taking the nine o'clock train.

>> Oh, well, in that case, he's gone by now.

Come on, honey.

(Hildy groaning) Don't sit there like a frozen robin?

Get on with the story.

We ought to have our plans all finished by the time Butch gets here.

>> Hildy: How you have messed up my life.

What am I going to do?

>> Ah, the window's too small.

We'll have to carry the desk out of the building.

>> I ought to be on that train right now.

>> Hey, Hildy, come on.

>> What a sap I am falling for your line!

"They're gonna name streets after me.

Johnson Steet."

>> Yes, yes, well, you've had a nice rest- "Johnson Steet."

>> Now get back to work.

>> Well, I'm not going back to work.

(door rattling) Walter, what?

>> Shh.

>> Who is it?

>> It's me boss, it's Louie.

(door rattling) >> Louie.

>> Holy smokes, what's the matter with you?

>> Where's Mrs. Baldwin?

>> What you do with her?

>> What happened?

>> Have you been in a fight?

>> Down Western Avenue, we was going 65 miles per hour, you know what I mean?

>> Take that mush out of your mouth.

>> Where's the old lady?

>> I'm telling you!

We ran smack into a police patrol.

You know what I mean?

We busted it in half!

>> Was she hurt?

>> So, where is she?

Tell me!

>> Can you imagine bumping into a load of cops?

They come rollin' out like oranges!

>> What did you do with her?

>> Search me, when I come to, I was running down 34th Street.

>> You were with her, weren't you?

>> Was I?

>> You were in the taxi cab.

>> The driver got knocked cold.

(Hildy groaning) >> Butter-fingers!

I give you an old dame to take somewhere, and you hand her over to the cops!

>> What do you mean, "I handed her"?

The cops was on the wrong side of the street.

>> Uh, no, everything's fine.

She's probably squawking her head off in a police station.

>> I don't think she's squawking much.

You know what I mean?

>> Don't tell me!

Was she killed?

>> Hey, was she?

Did you notice?

Hmm, hmm?

>> Say, listen, me with a gun on the hip and a kidnapped old lady on my hands, I'm gonna stick around asking questions from a lot of cops?

You know what I mean?

>> Dead, dead!

Oh, this is the end.

Oh!

>> Well, it's Fate, Hildy.

What will be, will be.

>> What am I gonna say to Bruce?

What can I tell him?

>> Look, honey, if he really loves you, you won't have to tell him anything.

Snap out of it!

Would you rather have had the old dame dragging the whole police force in here?

>> I killed her.

I'm responsible.

What am I gonna do?

How can I ever face Bruce again?

>> Look at me, Hildy.

>> I am looking at you, you murderer!

>> Ah, now, if it was my own grandmother, I'd carry on!

You know I would, for the paper!

>> Louie?

Get outta here.

>> No, no.

We can do more here, now be calm.

Listen- (phone ringing) >> Hello?

Hello?

>> Main, 4557.

>> Who?

Well, Butch, where are you?

>> Hello?

Mission Hospital Receiving Room, please.

>> Well, what are you doing there?

Haven't you even started?

>> Hello, Eddie, Hildy Johnson, was there an old lady brought in there from an auto smashup?

>> Oh, for H. Sebastian, Butch, listen, it's a matter of life and death!

>> Nobody?

Oh.

>> I can't hear.

>> Morning Side, 2469.

>> Pick up who?

Speak up!

A what?

Well, you can't stop for a dame now!

>> Hildy: Uh, yeah, Community Hospital?

Give me the receiving room, please.

>> I don't care if you've been after her for six years!

Butch, our whole lives are at stake!

Are you gonna let a woman come between us after all we've been through?

>> Hello, Max, Hildy Johnson, was there an old lady brought in there in an auto smashup?

>> Butch, I'd put my arm in fire for you up to here!

Now, you can't double-cross me!

>> Well, look around, will you please?

>> Oh, she does?

All right, put her on, I'll talk to her.

Oh, good evening, Madam.

Now listen, you 10-cent glamor girl, you can't keep Butch away from his duty.

What's that?

You say that again, I'll come over there and kick you in the teeth!

Say, what kind of language is that?

Now look here, you!

(groans) She hung up!

What did I say?

(scoffs) Duffy!

How do you like that?

>> Hello?

Hello, Rob?

Mousing around with some big.

Duffy!

>> Will you shut up!

I'm trying to hear?

>> Duffy, that's cooperation.

>> Nobody?

>> Duffy!

Well, where is Duffy?

(groans) Diabetes!

I ought to know better than to hire anybody with a disease.

>> Hildy: Well, gimme Olympia, 219, will ya?

>> Louie!

>> Yes, boss?

>> Louie, it's up to you.

>> Anything you say, Boss.

>> Well, beat it out, get ahold of some guys.

>> Who do you want?

>> Anybody with hair on his chest.

Get 'em off the street, get 'em anywhere.

Offer 'em anything, only get 'em.

We gotta get that desk outta here.

>> Is it important?

>> Is it important?

Listen, Louie, you're the best friend I got.

>> I like you too, boss.

>> All right, then don't fail me.

Get enough people to move that desk.

Now come on, I'm relying on you.

>> You know me, boss, the shirt off my back.

>> Okay, don't bump into anything.

That dumb immigrant'll flop on me as sure as your boy.

>> Try it again at the hospital.

It's bound to answer >> Well, if he's not back in five minutes, we're gonna carry it out alone.

>> Do anything you want.

>> There's millions of ways.

We can start a fire, have the firemen take it out in the confusion.

>> I don't give a darn what you do.

>> Hey, come here.

See if we can lift it.

>> Hello?

What?

Nobody?

Oh, never mind.

>> Are you gonna help me?

>> No, I'm not.

>> Walter: Do you want me to strain my back?

>> Yes!

I'm gonna find Mrs. Baldwin.

>> Walter: Don't open that door!

>> Hildy: I'm going down to the morgue and I'm gonna find out- >> Oh, gotcha.

>> Hey!

Hey!

>> We wanna talk to you a minute.

>> What is this?

Hey, let go, what's the idea?

>> What's your hurry?

>> We wanna see you.

>> Get your hands off me.

>> Now, look here, Johnson.

>> Hey, you!

>> You mean me?

>> Yes, you.

What do you mean by breaking in here like this, hm?

>> You can't bluff me, Burns.

I don't care who you are or what paper you're editor of.

>> Let me go, will you?

>> Hang on to her, boys.

>> Oh please, look, fellas, something's happened to my mother-in-law.

>> We know what you're up to, Hildy.

>> Maybe goin' out to get Williams.

>> She had the door locked.

>> She and Mollie were talking.

>> They know where he is.

>> Oh, look, I don't know anything, really, and there's been an accident.

>> Johnson, there's something very, very peculiar going on here.

>> Now see here, Johnson.

>> Just a moment, Hartwell, if you have any accusations to make, make them in the proper manner.

Otherwise, I'll have to ask you to get out.

>> You'll ask me to what?

>> Get out!

>> Oh, you will, eh?

You keep that door closed and don't let anybody in or out.

Now, we'll see about this.

>> Come on, Pinky!

Give 'em the third degree.

>> Yeah.

>> Make 'em talk and you got Williams, Pinky!

>> Yes, now look here, Johnson, I'm going to the bottom of this.

Are you going to talk or aren't you?

>> Well, what do you want me to say?

>> What do you know about Williams?

>> What do you know about Williams?

>> Uh, now, we're getting.

All right, boys.

Take her outta here.

I got ways of making you talk.

>> Oh, no you don't!

Don't you dare touch me!

(Hildy grunting) (gun thuds) >> Look out!

She's got a gun!

>> Quick, grab it!

>> Oh, no, you don't!

Walter!

>> All right, Burns, I'll take that gun.

>> Where did you get this gun?

>> I've got a right to carry a gun if I want to.

>> Not this gun!

>> I can explain that, Hartwell.

When Hildy told me she was going to interview Earl Williams, I thought it would be dangerous.

So, I gave her a gun to defend herself.

>> Oh, you did?

Well, that's very interesting.

But this happens to be the gun that Williams used to shoot his way out with!

>> What?

>> My good man, are you trying to make me out a liar?

>> I ought to know my own gun, oughtn't I?

>> Oh, so that's where Williams got the gun.

>> And Hildy got it from Williams.

>> Where is Earl Williams?

Where have you got him?

>> Walter: You're barking up the wrong tree, Hartwell.

>> I'll give you three minutes to tell me where he is.

>> He went over to the hospital, to call on Professor Egelhoffer.

>> What?

>> With a bag of marshmallows.

>> Where is he?

Ask the master mind what he's doing here.

>> Speak up!

Speak up!

What do you know about this?

>> My dear fellow!

>> Where is he?

>> The Morning Post does not obstruct justice or hide criminals.

>> You ought to know that.

>> Johnson, you're under arrest.

>> What?

>> And you, too, Burns.

>> Who's under arrest?

Listen, you insignificant, square-toed, pimple-headed spy, do you realize what you're doing?

>> I'll show you what I'm doing.

Burns, you're obstructing justice and so is the Morning Post, and I'm going to see that you're fined $10,000.

>> You'll see nothing of the kind.

>> And I'm going to begin by impounding the Post property.

Is this your desk?

>> No!

>> Yes.

What are you afraid of, Hildy?

I dare you to move this desk out of here.

>> Oh, you do?

>> Yes, go ahead and try it.

>> All right, I will.

>> Now, I'm warning you, you move this desk out of this building, and I'll put you behind bars.

>> He can do it, too.

>> Is that so?

>> Yes.

>> I'll see the Roosevelt hears about it.

>> All right, tell him.

Come on, boys, confiscate this desk.

>> All right now, this is your last chance.

This is a Federal offense, and you fellas will be accessories!

>> We'll take a chance on that.

Go ahead, boys.

>> All right.

(door knocking) >> Officer: Open up this door!

>> Mother, oh, Mother, I am glad to see you, are you all right?

I've been worrying.

>> That's the man that did it, right there.

>> What's the idea here?

>> This lady claims she's been kidnapped.

>> What?

>> They dragged me all the way down the stairs and- >> Just a minute.

Did this man have anything to do with it?

>> Why, he was now charge of the whole thing.

He told them to kidnap me.

>> Excuse me, Madam, are you referring to me?

>> Well, you know you did.

>> What about this, Burns, kidnapping, huh?

>> Ah, trying to frame me, huh?

I never saw this woman before in my life.

>> (gasps) Why, what a thing to say!

I was standing right here when that girl jumped out the window.

>> Call the mayor!

Get him over here right away!

>> Now, look here, Madam, be honest.

If you were out joyriding, plastered, (Mrs. Baldwin gasps) and got into some scrape, why don't you admit it, instead of accusing innocent people?

>> You ruffian, how dare you talk like that to me?

>> He's just a little crazy, Mother.

>> And I can tell you something more.

>> Yes?

>> I can tell you why they did it.

>> Now, Sheriff- >> They had some kind of a murderer in here and they were hiding him.

(men chattering indistinctly) >> Hiding him?

>> Yes.

>> In here?

>> Yes!

>> Madam, you're a cockeyed liar!

(desk knocking) And you know it!

(Mrs. Baldwin gasping) (desk knocking) (Walter and Hildy groaning) >> What was that?

>> He's in there!

>> Gimme the desk.

>> Gimme that phone.

What a prank.

>> Stand back, everybody.

>> He might shoot.

>> Get your guns out.

>> He's harmless.

>> Don't take any chances, shoot right through the desk.

>> He can't hurt anybody, you've got his gun.

>> Oh, dear, oh, dear!

>> Oh, go on, you gray-haired old weasel!

>> Oh.

Let me out!

Let me out of here!

>> Gimme the desk.

>> Give me Jake.

>> Mother!

>> Close that door!

>> I've been looking all over for you, what's happened?

>> Hello, Jake, hang on.

>> Hildy, call Duffy.

>> No, you don't!

>> You wanna see a scoop?

>> In a minute.

>> Now, everybody.

>> Hold the wire.

>> Aim right at the center.

>> That's murder!

>> All right, Tower, Frank, one of you get on each end of the desk.

>> Something coming up.

>> We got you covered, Williams.

>> Happen in a minute.

>> Don't try to move.

>> Any time now.

>> I'll count three.

>> It's hot.

>> One.

>> Ready for an emergency.

>> Two.

>> Any second now.

>> Three, up with it.

I got you, Williams.

>> Go ahead, shoot me.

>> Come outta there.

>> Earl Williams just captured in the Press Room in the Criminal Courts Building, hiding in a desk!

>> Come on, on your feet.

>> Come on, boys.

Don't try any funny stuff.

>> Williams was unconscious when they opened the desk.

>> Williams put up a desperate struggle, but the police overpowered him.

>> He offered no resistance!

>> He tried a shootout with the cops, but his gun wasn't working.

>> Tried to brake through a whole cordon of police.

>> Duffy, the Morning Post- >> Gimme that!

>> Just turned Williams over to the Sheriff.

>> Put the cuffs on these people.

>> More later!

>> Anonymous note received by the Sheriff led to William's capture, hold on.

>> The Sheriff was tracing a mysterious telephone call, which gave away William's hiding place.

>> Hey, where's that old lady?

>> Where'd she go?

>> She went out.

>> Out?

>> Call you back!

Call you back!

(footsteps thumping) (door slams) (Peter humming) >> Hello, girlie, gimme the Warden's office, quick!

>> Hartwell, you're gonna wish you'd never been born!

>> Oh, am I?

Hello, Fred.

>> Well, fine work, Pete!

You certainly delivered the goods, I'm proud of you.

>> Look kinda natural, don't they?

>> A sight for sore eyes.

>> Aiding an escaped criminal!

and a little charge of kidnapping.

What's that?

But that's the jail, there must be somebody there.

>> Well!

Looks like about 10 years apiece for you two birds!

(Hildy chuckles) >> Does it?

>> Whenever you think you've got the Morning Post licked, it's time for you to get out of town.

>> Whistling in the dark!

Well, that isn't gonna help you this time, you're through.

>> Listen, the last man who said to me was Archie Leach, just a week before he cut his throat.

>> Is that so?

>> Is that so?

>> We've been in worse jams than this, haven't we, Hildy?

>> No.

>> You forget the power that always watches over the Morning Post, my boy.

>> Your luck's not with you now.

>> Hello?

This is Hartwell.

>> Yeah, says you.

>> I've caught him.

Yes, Williams, single-handed.

>> Oh.

>> We'll proceed with the hanging per schedule!

>> You're gonna be in office exactly two days more.

>> Then we're gonna start pulling your nose out of that feed bag.

>> Gimme the District Attorney's office.

I'll tell you what you'll be doing.

>> What?

>> You'll be, uh.

>> Oh, go on, make a bit- >> Making brooms in the state penitentiary.

Hello, Joe, this is Hartwell.

I want you to come over to my office, right away.

Yes, I've just captured a couple of important birds, and I want you to take their confessions.

>> Duffy, get Liebowitz!

>> Hey!

>> All the lawyers in the world aren't gonna help you now!

>> Listen, you're talking to the Morning Post.

>> Fred: Oh, power of the press!

(laughs) >> Haha, listen, bigger men than you have found out what the power of the press is.

Presidents.

Kings!

>> Here's your reprieve.

>> Say, you, say, get outta here!

>> Oh, you can't bribe me!

My wife- >> What's all this?

>> Get out of here, you!

>> Oh, no, I won't, here's the reprieve.

>> What?

>> I don't want to be City Sealer, my wife- >> Who is this man?

>> Throw him out, Frank.

>> All right, out you go.

>> Wait just a minute, wait a minute, who's trying to bribe you?

>> They wouldn't take this.

>> He's insane!

>> What did I tell ya?

An unseen power.

>> What do you mean by coming in here with a cock-and-bull story like that?

>> Look at that.

>> It's a frame up, he's an imposter.

>> Arrest him.

>> Come on, you.

>> Just a minute.

Trying to hang an innocent man to win an election, eh?

>> That's murder.

>> That's a lie!

>> I never say him before!

>> (chuckles) If I was to tell my wife- >> What's your name?

>> Pettibone, Joe Pettibone.

>> When did you deliver this first, Mr. Pettibone?

>> Who'd you talk to?

>> They started right in, bribing me.

>> Who's they?

>> Those.

Them.

>> That's absurd on the face of it!

Walter, he's talking like a child.

>> Yeah, out of the mouths of babes.

>> Hi, babe.

(laughs) (Walter chuckles) >> He's insane, drunk or something.

Why, if this unfortunate man Williams has really been reprieved, I'm personally tickled to death, aren't you, Pete?

>> Oh, go on, you'd hang your own mother to be re-elected.

>> That's a horrible thing to say about anybody, Ms. Johnson.

>> Oh, you're marvelous, take a look at that.

>> Now, look here, Walter, you're an intelligent man.

>> Yeah, never mind that.

Now let's have your story, Mr. Pettibone.

>> Well, 19 years ago I married Mrs. Pettibone- >> Skip all that.

>> Well, she wasn't Mrs. Pettibone then- >> No, no, no.

>> She was one of the- >> I mean- >> Jones girls.

>> Sheriff, this document is authentic, and Earl Williams has been reprieved, and our commonwealth has been saved the painful necessity of shedding blood.

>> You said it!

Now, get off the soapbox, save that for the Tribune.

>> That's awful.

>> Pete, take those handcuffs off my friends.

>> I was just going to.

>> I'm amazed at you, doing a thing like that.

>> Isn't he awful?

>> Walter, you don't know how badly I feel.

>> No.

>> No excuse at all for Pete to fly off the handle.

>> Pete: I was only doing my duty, nothing personal in it.

>> That's all right, Pete.

>> What'd you say your name was?

>> Uh, Pettibone, yes, here's a picture of my wife.

>> Yeah.

A fine looking woman.

>> Well, you haven't seen her yet.

>> Yeah, well, she's all right, all right.

>> Well, she's good enough for me!

If I was to tell my, ooh!

>> I understand perfectly, Mr. Pettibone, and as long as I'm mayor, why- >> Which ought to be about three more hours, I'd say.

>> That's long enough for us to get out a special edition, asking for your recall.

>> And your arrest.

You know, you little boys ought to get about 10 years a piece, I think.

>> Yep.

>> Don't make any hasty decisions, Mr. Burns, you might run into a thumping big libel suit.

>> You're going to run into the governor.

>> Why, my old friend the governor and I understand each other perfectly.

>> Yes, and so do I!

>> So do you what, you hoodoo?

And now, Mr. Pettibone, if you'll come with us, we'll take you over to the Warden's office and deliver this reprieve.

Come along, Pete.

>> If I was to tell my wife- >> You won't have to.

>> Woo!

(laughs) (Walter and Hildy laughing) >> Wait till those two future jailbirds read- >> Oh boy.

>> The Morning Post tomorrow.

>> Tight squeeze though.

>> Gimme Duffy.

>> That's the worst jam we've been in in a long time.

>> Yeah, what?

Well, where is he, get him.

>> Remember the time we stole Old Lady Haggerty's stomach off the coroner's physician?

>> Isn't it marvelous?

Any time you need this guy, he's never there.

>> We proved she'd been poisoned though, didn't we, Walter?

>> Mm-hmm, yeah.

>> We had to hide out for a week.

Do you remember that?

At the Shoreland Hotel.

That's were, I mean, how we- >> Yeah, we could have gone to jail for that too, you know that?

>> I guess so.

>> Ah, yes.

Maybe you're right, Hildy, it's a bad business.

Well, you're gonna be better off.

Say, you'd better get going.

>> Where would I go?

>> Why, to Bruce of course!

>> But you know he's gone, he took the nine o'clock- >> Oh.

Just send him a wire.

He'll be waiting at the station when you get into Albany.

Now, go on.

What?

>> Well, I.

Look, why doesn't that guy have a phone put in there?

>> I don't know, I got it so messed up, Walter, maybe he- >> Get going, Hildy.

>> Get going?

(chuckles) What is that with you?

>> Wait a minute.

Now look, honey, can't you understand?

I'm trying to do something noble for once in my life.

Now, get out of here before I change my mind.

Come on.

>> But, Walter!

>> This is tough enough now.

>> Just a minute.

>> Now, send the fellow a wire, he'll be waiting when you get in.

>> I know.

Who'll write the story?

>> I'll do it myself.

Won't be half as good as you could do it, but what's the difference?

>> Well, it's my story.

I'd kind of like to think that if I-- >> Hello?

Oh at last, Duffy!

>> Ah, I get it, Walter, the same old act isn't it?

Trying to push me outta here, thinking I'll be stupid enough to want to stay.

>> Now, I know I deserve that, Hildy.

Wait a minute Duffy.

But this is one time you're wrong.

Look, honey, when you walk out that door, part of me will go right with ya, but a whole new world's gonna open up for you.

I made fun of Bruce and Albany and all that kind of thing.

You know why?

>> Why?

>> I was jealous.

I was sore, because he can offer you the kind of life I can't give you.

That's what you want, honey.

>> I, uh, I could stay and do the story, and take the train in the morning.

>> No, forget it.

>> It doesn't make that much difference.

>> Come on.

Come on.

>> Good bye, dear, and good luck.

Hello, Duffy?

No, no, this is how it goes so far.

(phone ringing) Oh, just a minute.

Hello?

Who?

Hildy Johnson?

No, she just left.

>> No, I'm still here, I can take it.

>> All right.

Hang on a minute.

>> Hildy Johnson speaking.

The 4th Precinct police station?

Well, put him on.

Bruce, I thought you were on your way to Albany.

(sighs) Well, what for?

>> For having counterfeit money!

>> Counterfeit money?

(Walter clears throat) >> Hold on a minute, Duffy.

>> Well, where did you get it?

I gave it to you?

Oh, all right, I'll try and do something about it.

(Hildy crying) (somber music) >> Oh, honey.

Honey, don't cry, please.

Oh, come on, I didn't mean to make you cry, honey, what's the matter with you?

You never cried before.

Hildy.

>> I thought you were really sending me away with Bruce.

(sniffles) I didn't know you had him locked up.

I thought (sniffles) you were on the level for once, and you were just standing by and letting me go off with him and not doing a thing about it.

>> Ah, come on, honey.

What did you think I was, a chump?

>> Hildy: (sniffles) I mean, I thought you didn't love me.

>> Come on.

What were you thinking with?

>> (sniffles) I don't know.

Well, what are you standing there gawking for?

>> Well, I- >> We have to get him out of jail.

(sniffles) Send Louis down with some honest money and (sniffles) send him back to Albany where he belongs.

>> Sure, honey, sure.

Hello, Duffy?

Everything's changed.

Tell Louis to stand by.

We're coming over to the office.

Nah, don't worry about the story.

Hildy's gonna write it.

>> Mm-hmm.

>> Of course, she's not quitting.

She never intended to.

We're gonna get married!

>> Oh!

(Walter laughs) >> Can we go on a honeymoon this time, Walter?

>> Sure!

>> We can?

>> Hey, Duffy, you can be managing editor.

No, no, not permanently, just for the two weeks we're away on the honeymoon.

>> Oh, what?

>> I don't know where we're going, where are we going?

>> Niagara Falls.

>> Niagara Falls, Duffy.

>> Two whole week, Walter?

>> Sure, you've earned it.

What?

What?

Strike?

What strike?

Where?

Albany?

Well, I know it's on the way, Duffy, but I can't ask Hildy to.

>> All right, we'll honeymoon in Albany.

>> Yeah?

Okay, Duffy.

(laughs) Well, isn't that a coincidence?

We're going to Albany.

I wonder if Bruce can put us up.

Say, why don't you carry that in your hand?

(lively orchestral music) (lively orchestral music)