WHITE CHRISTMAS
"WHITE CHRISTMAS"
by
Melvin Frank, Norman Krasna and Norman Panama
FULL SHOT - REAR AREA - (DAY) - (GLASS)
This is December 24, 1944, in the first safe area directly
behind the battle line, in the Italian theatre.
In the distance occasional artillery light flashes are seen
and artillery rumbles are heard. The battered terrain shows
the effects of battle.
In the foreground is a recreation area, covered with
camouflage; entertainment is in progress on a raised stage.
Men of the division are seated about on benches, boxes, and
the ground. A camouflaged motor pool of jeeps and tanks is
nearby.
MED. SHOT - NEAR RECREATION AREA
We can HEAR LAUGHTER and APPLAUSE from the men as a jeep
with two stars on the front indicating it is the General's
car jounces along a road toward the side of the recreation
area. A YOUNG SERGEANT is at the wheel, an ADJUTANT beside
him, and in the rear are GENERAL WAVERLY and GENERAL CARLTON.
JEEP - MED. CLOSE
As it jounces along. General Waverly is weather-beaten and
weary; his uniform, while neat, shows the effects of long
wear. General Carlton, on the other hand, is stiff, clean
and fresh from the Pentagon.
He is staring off at the recreation area.
GENERAL CARLTON
(To Adjutant)
What's this all about, Colonel?
ADJUTANT
(Turning)
A little entertainment for the men,
sir. Tonight's Christmas Eve.
GENERAL CARLTON
These men are moving up tonight.
They should be lined up for full
inspection!
The jeep has come to a halt.
GENERAL WAVERLY
(Eyeing him)
You're absolutely right.
(To Adjutant)
There's no Christmas in the Army,
Colonel.
ADJUTANT
Yes, sir.
Waverly and the Adjutant alight from the jeep.
GENERAL WAVERLY
(To Carlton)
There's always a slip-up or two during
a change in command. The men get a
little loose. But I know I'm leaving
them in good hands.
GENERAL CARLTON
(Stiffly)
Thank you.
(To Driver)
Sergeant, take me to headquarters
immediately! We'll have those men
turned out on the double!
The Sergeant looks at General Waverly.
GENERAL WAVERLY
Goodbye, Sergeant. Take the short
cut.
SERGEANT
Yes, sir!
The jeep pulls off and makes a half circle. The Adjutant
makes a gesture, as if to stop it. The General stops him.
TWO SHOT - GENERAL WAVERLY AND ADJUTANT
The Adjutant turns to him.
ADJUTANT
That's not the way to headquarters!
GENERAL WAVERLY
Joe, you know that, and I know that,
but the new General doesn't know it.
Or he won't for about an hour and a
half.
ADJUTANT
That Sergeant'll be a private
tomorrow!
GENERAL WAVERLY
Yes... isn't he lucky?
He takes the Adjutant by the arm and leads him toward the
recreation area.
RAISED PLATFORM - MED. SHOT
CAPTAIN BOB WALLACE (BING CROSBY) is wearing a makeshift
beard and Santa Claus hat and PRIVATE PHILIP DAVIS (DONALD
O'CONNOR) is in combat clothes. They are doing a number to
entertain the soldiers, WHAT DOES A SOLDIER WANT FOR
CHRISTMAS? During introduction, we
CUT TO:
5A.
TWO SHOT - GENERAL AND ADJUTANT
just starting to take seats, off to one side where they are
not noticed by the performers.
5B.
GROUP SHOT - ABOUT 6 SOLDIERS
seated in audience. They look off, see General, start to
rise.
5C.
TWO SHOT - GENERAL AND ADJUTANT
The General notices them - motions for them to sit down again,
indicating he doesn't want attention called to himself.
5D.
PLATFORM - FULL SHOT
The number concludes to applause. Bob holds up his hand for
silence. He removes his beard.
BOB
Thanks, fellows. I guess by now you
know the Old Man's being replaced by
a new Commanding General fresh out
of the Pentagon... this divisions's
been awfully lucky so far, but tonight
they're running a special on St.
Christophers at the PX... The Old
Man's heading back to the rear -
he's never moved in that direction
in his life. All I can say is, we
owe so much to General Waverly and
the way --
WAVERLY'S VOICE
(A bellow)
ATTENTION!
Automatically, Bob stiffens. Phil does the same.
AUDIENCE - FULL SHOT
Every man is at attention and every head has turned to where
General Waverly has taken up a position near the front of
the platform.
GENERAL WAVERLY
Captain Wallace, button your shirt.
You're out of uniform!
(Bob, grinning, hastily
buttons his shirt)
This division is now under the command
of General Harold G. Carlton, and I
don't want anyone to forget it --
not that he'll let you. He's tough --
just what this sloppy outfit needs.
You'll be standing inspection night
and day -- you may even learn how to
march. And if you don't give him
everything you got, I may come back
and fight for the enemy. Merry
Christmas!
The boys respond with "Merry Christmas".
GENERAL WAVERLY
(Embarrassed)
Well -- I guess that's about it - uh -
uh --
Bob, covering his embarrassment:
BOB
Perhaps I can help you out, sir.
He turns to the musicians, gives the downbeat. They play
THE OLD MAN, which is sung by the entire outfit.
The General stands at attention through the first chorus,
visibly moved. During the second chorus he starts up the
aisle, revealing for the first time that his left leg is
bandaged to the knee. The Adjutant puts out his arm to help.
Waverly refuses. Toward the finish of the song, he turns,
faces the men and salutes them. The men return the salute.
(This is not a military mistake, the General salutes the
enlisted men as a deliberate gesture.) There is a Red Cross
ambulance standing by.
DISSOLVE TO:
CLOSE SHOT - (NIGHT) - TINY CANDLE
THE CAMERA PULLS BACK to reveal a hand lighting a candle on
a tiny makeshift Christmas tree. We reveal a number of
enlisted men huddled around the tree in a trench, including
Bob and Phil. One of the men looks at his wristwatch. Now
another does.
CLOSE SHOT - WRISTWATCH
The hand is approaching midnight.
CLOSE SHOT - SOLDIER
He is looking at his wristwatch.
CLOSE SHOT - WRISTWATCH
The second hand is pointing to the hour.
FULL SHOT OF SCENE
This is the prearranged signal for Bob to begin singing WHITE
CHRISTMAS. Phil accompanies him on a harmonica. Toward the
end of the song, an enemy barrage DROWNS out the music. A
shell BURSTS in the vicinity.
CLOSE SHOT - BOB AND PHIL
Phil pulls Bob down in time to save him from the shrapnel
burst. This has also pushed Bob's face into the mud, which
he thinks is unnecessary. Phil, ignoring Bob's hostile look,
brightly continues with WHITE CHRISTMAS from where the song
left off. Bob finishes with him, but eyeing him.
DISSOLVE TO:
EXT. SKY - (NIGHT)
CAMERA SHOOTING UP to the sky as brilliant fireworks explosion
lights up the screen. Over scene SUPERIMPOSE:
12-A.
INSERT - NEWSPAPER
Headline reads: "V-E DAY!"
As CAMERA MOVES FAST INTO headline, we LOSE the fireworks
display and the headline covers the whole screen.
DISSOLVE TO:
12-B.
INSERT - CHURCH TOWERS - (DAY)
Bells are ringing for celebration of V-E Day. CAMERA MOVES
INTO mouth of one bell, blacking out the screen.
DISSOLVE TO:
EXT. BILL POSTER OF FLORIDA SHOW - (NIGHT)
featuring names and pictures of Bob and Phil. CAMERA MOVES
to a CLOSE SHOT of the picture, HOLDS for a second, then
suddenly the picture comes to life and we are on the stage
of the theatre where Bob and Phil are doing the production
number "BELLS".
MED. SHOT - INT. THEATRE - AUDIENCE
Perhaps twenty people, photographed at a slant. They're
warm. One woman has a fan, some use programs. They are
enjoying the show, however. There are some vacant seats
apparent. This theatre is a modern traveling tent show,
such as have been playing in Florida in recent years, and
beyond the sides we see palm trees, characteristic of Florida.
FULL SHOT - AUDIENCE
APPLAUDING the conclusion of the number.
MED. FULL SHOT - BACKSTAGE
The curtain is down, the boys come off, the curtain goes up
on the next number, which is dancing. Phil and Bob are met
by COOKE, the Company Manager.
RITA, a luscious Latin type, and some of the remaining chorus
girls and other players ad lib, "Couldn't be cuter!" "Great."
"Very funny!"
COOKE
(To Bob and Phil)
New York's on the telephone.
Bob and Phil, with Cooke, go to the backstage telephone.
PHIL
(Into phone)
Hello.
(He listens. To Bob
and Cooke)
Oscar.
MED. CLOSE SHOT - INT. MANAGER'S OFFICE
This is the business office of Bob and Phil. OSCAR is their
representative and manager, not their employer.
He is sixty and looks competent. He refers to a telegram in
his hand. Pictures of the boys adorn the desk, and Wallace
and Davis sheets of previous shows are on the wall. It must
be evident from their billing that the boys are important
stars in New York.
OSCAR
Listen, I just heard what you're
doing -- giving the cast a week off
with pay for Christmas. You don't
know how touched I am. I'm all choked
up. Between sobs, I managed to book
you on the Ed Harrison show this
week to take up the slack. It'll be
stealing money.
17A.
CLOSE SHOT - GROUP
Phil is holding the receiver up to Bob. Oscar's VOICE can
be plainly heard.
PHIL
(Into phone)
We'll have to go to New York -- four
days and four nights of rehearsals --
that's stealing money?
17B.
CLOSE SHOT - OSCAR
As he speaks into the telephone
OSCAR
It is for me -- I get ten percent.
(He listens for a
moment)
Next time you guys make a charitable
gesture, find out if you got with
what to make it. See you Wednesday.
He hangs up.
GROUP SHOT - PHIL, BOB AND COOKE
Bob hangs up the phone.
BOB
Well... while the cast takes it easy
we'll be slaving over a hot kinnie.
COOKE
What train do you want? There's a
one-thirty this morning but you have
to sit up all night.
PHIL
Let's get out tonight.
BOB
Okay.
The boys walk to their dressing room. A group of the chorines
come flying by, toward the dressing rooms, with squealing.
They make quite a picture from the rear, bouncing and all.
PHIL
What are we going to do until one-
thirty?
BOB
We'll eat dinner.
PHIL
(Looking at the
retreating bouncing)
Eat, eat All you think of is your
stomach!
Rita shows up in front of Phil.
RITA
(Eagerly)
You said you had something to rehearse
with me after the show. What is it?
Phil evidently was trying to hide this from Bob and is self-
conscious at being caught.
PHIL
It's a kind of new dance number.
RITA
(Eagerly)
I'm ready.
BOB
(Taking Phil by the
arm)
He isn't. Some business has come
up. See you in a week.
(He pulls Phil away)
Come on, Romeo, dinner!
(Tempting him)
Lamb chops, lamb chops!
PHIL
(Pretending that he
is letting himself
be pulled while he
is still anxious to
go in the other
direction)
I'm looking at them! We're going in
the wrong direction.
DISSOLVE TO:
MED. SHOT - WATERFRONT INN - BOB AND PHIL - (NIGHT)
The boys are now finishing their dinner. Bob is facing the
orchestra, Phil would have to turn to see it. The MUSIC
plays, the boys eat. The table is close to the bar. On two
stools sit JUDY and BETTY. Betty is wearing her glasses and
examining some railroad tickets that have just been handed
her by the bartender. Phil is not paying attention to his
eating, he is entranced with Judy's pretty legs draped over
the bar stool. Bob cannot see the girls and is not even
interested enough to turn around.
MED. CLOSE SHOT - BETTY AND JUDY
On her part, Judy is not absorbed in the tickets, but is
unobtrusively sizing up Phil.
BETTY
(Checking the tickets)
We'll have to rush to get the 1:30
train.
CLOSE SHOT - PHIL AND BOB
Bob notices Phil's absorption.
BOB
Have you ever considered laying off
the female sex for awhile?
PHIL
What other kind is there?
(He picks up the card
which announces the
performers names and
reads)
'The Stewart Sisters.' Sister act!
(He smacks his lips.
He doesn't realize
that these two girls
are the Stewart
Sisters)
BOB
Down, Rover, down. Remember, we
have an agreement--you chase no new
tidbits during the season. You were
man enough to give me your hand on
it.
PHIL
You were sneaky enough to take it.
MED. CLOSE SHOT - BETTY AND JUDY
Betty looks from the tickets and sees that Judy is covertly
eyeing Phil. She leans forward.
BETTY
(Quietly)
Ahem.
(Judy's eyes are toward
Phil. A little louder)
Ahem! All right dear, relax.
JUDY
He's awful cute.
BETTY
So was the one in Kansas City, and
the one in Canton, Ohio, and the one
in Waco, Texas.
JUDY
(Mock seriousness)
Canton, Ohio wasn't so much.
BETTY
One of these days you're going to
meet somebody extra cute and the
next performance I'll be doing a
single.
JUDY
(Sincerely)
Nobody'll ever be cute enough to
break up this sister act.
MED. SHOT - BOOTH - BOB AND PHIL
Phil is still fingering the card.
PHIL
I haven't much luck with sister acts.
They're all alike. Shall I tell you
what these two are like?
BOB
Shoot.
PHIL
Four feet two inches tall. Pudgy.
Round races. Have big bows in their
hair. Always smiling.
(He parodies a smile)
Lots of teeth. Sister acts have
more teeth than anybody else. Two,
three hundred teeth at a time. The
American Dental Association is
investigating it.
There is a drum roll from the orchestra. Betty takes off
her glasses and puts them in their case, on the bar. The
bandleader's voice announces:
BANDLEADER
Ladies and gentleman, the Stewart
Sisters!
The audience applauds politely while the girls start toward
the platform, Phil reacts in surprise to the new development.
23-A.
PLATFORM - FULL SHOT
Betty and Judy do their number: "SISTERS". As they take
their bows --
MED. SHOT - BOB AND PHIL
Phil pretends to recognize Judy.
PHIL
Say, Dolores! That's Dolores!
BOB
Who?
PHIL
Remember that girl I told you about
who got sick in St. Paul? That's
her! The girl in the oxygen tent!
I told you about her! The road
company of "Student Prince." The
whole company went to church and
prayed for her! It was the most
touching thing I've ever seen in
show business.
(HE GETS UP.)
I'll bring her over.
He goes, Bob watching, disgusted. NOVELLO, the owner of the
Waterfront Inn, comes up.
MED. SHOT - BOB AND NOVELLO
Novello evidently knows Bob.
NOVELLO
Didn't you get your dessert yet, Mr.
Wallace?
BOB
I'm not having any, but I think my
partner's lining up some pastries
now.
NOVELLO
Sure wish I could afford to book you
boys here.
BOB
Call our agent - we've got half an
hour between trains.
Phil enters the shot with Judy and Betty.
PHIL
Hello, Mister Novello.
NOVELLO
Good evening, Mister Davis.
MED. SHOT - GROUP
Novello pulls out the table to permit the girls to be seated.
PHIL
(Burlesque formality)
Miss Stewart, Mister Wallace.
Miss Stewart, Mister Wallace.
JUDY AND BETTY
How do you do.
BOB
(Rising)
How do you do.
Phil gets Betty next to Bob, he sits next to Judy.
NOVELLO
See you later, folks.
PHIL
'Bye.
(He leaves)
JUDY
We saw your show at the matinee, and
we liked it very much.
BOB
Thank you, ma'am.
The orchestra has gone into WHITE CHRISTMAS.
PHIL
Where are you going to be for
Christmas?
JUDY
We're booked in Vermont.
PHIL
Vermont? What's there?
BETTY
Snow. We spent last Christmas in
South Carolina, the year before in
Hawaii. They didn't seem like
Christmases. There ought to be snow.
This one's going to be real white.
BOB
Well, it's the way you've been raised.
If you saw a lot of snow when you
were a kid you miss it more around
Christmas. There's a lot of snow
around St. Paul.
JUDY
Is that where you come from - St.
Paul?
It dawns on him, slowly. He shows no emotion.
BOB
No. You come from St. Paul.
JUDY
I come from Canton, Ohio.
BOB
(Just for the record
he knows)
I'd like to ask you something. Were
you ever in an oxygen tent?
JUDY
Oxygen tent? Oh no!
BOB
Were you ever in a road company of
"Student Prince?"
BETTY
No. Why?
Bob looks at Phil. The rules are clear between them.
Bob puts his hand out. Phil takes it. They shake.
BOB
Very good.
PHIL
Thank you.
BOB
What I admire are the details, the
invention, the little lies all around
the big one. It takes talent.
PHIL
Oh, it's nothing.
BOB
Don't say that. Don't belittle
yourself. Credit where credit is
due. You did it fine.
BETTY
Private conversation?
BOB
Little game we play.
PHIL
(To Judy)
May I have this dance?
JUDY
I'd love to.
PHIL
(Helping her up)
I'm not going to keep calling you
Miss Stewart.
JUDY
The name is Judy.
PHIL
(To Bob)
What a pretty name!
BOB
(They're off)
Nicer than Dolores!
BETTY
I'm Betty.
BOB
I'm low man. Bob.
(He takes her arm,
indicating Phil and
Judy)
Follow that couple.
BETTY
Why?
They move toward the dance floor.
BOB
Want to make sure they keep dancing.
BETTY
Stop worrying. He won't get any
place with her.
BOB
You sure?
BETTY
I'm positive. I trained her myself.
BOB
She's in the ring with the champ,
though. You've heard of Alcoholics
Anonymous?
(She nods; he indicates
Phil)
Women Anonymous. Their biggest case.
Keeps falling off the wagon.
BETTY
Well, you keep an eye on him, and
I'll keep an eye on her.
BOB
Fine. We can make out the probation
report together.
The orchestra blends into a vocal chorus of the song. (To
be decided upon.) The vocal is shared by Bob, Betty, Judy
and Phil, individually. Toward the end of the vocal Phil
dances Judy out to the terrace overlooking the water. This
blends into their dance. The staging of the number should
reunite the four principals by the end of the number. The
audience applauds and they all go back to their booth.
MED. CLOSE SHOT - BETTY AND JUDY
They are a half dozen steps ahead of the boys.
JUDY
They're both very cute, aren't they?
BETTY
(Hiding her real
interest)
Both?
JUDY
Uh huh.
BETTY
Which one do you like best?
JUDY
I like them both.
BETTY
You can't have both. There's a law.
JUDY
Oh, we'll never meet them again,
what does it matter?
The men are now up to them and help them into the booth.
MED. SHOT - BOOTH - GROUP
Bob does not sit.
BOB
Judy, you made even him look good.
JUDY
(Pleased)
You're very flattering, but he was
doing all the leading.
BETTY
(Fair)
You dance very well together. If I
say it.
PHIL
(Sitting)
Lightest girl I ever saw. Floats
like a bubble. One big bubble.
BOB
All right, bubble lover, stand up!
PHIL
What for? I just sat down.
BOB
La train. At one-thirty, and we
have to pack.
PHIL
Train?
BOB
You know, choo choo. Goes on tracks.
(Train whistle noise)
Wo woo.
PHIL
Oh no!
BOB
Oh yes!
PHIL
Can't we go tomorrow?
BOB
The train goes tonight.
(Phil looks
disconsolately at
Judy)
Say goodbye to the lady bubble,
because we're going to have to run
for it now.
PHIL
Lady bubble, I have an idea we're
going to meet up again sometime.
JUDY
We might, we're on the same train.
PHIL
No.
JUDY
Yes.
BOB
(Pulling Phil away)
No.
As they start off, Novello enters to the girls, agitated.
NOVELLO
The sheriff is here! He's in my
office!
JUDY
The sheriff!
NOVELLO
He's got a warrant to arrest you!
Bob has stopped. He looks at Phil, suspiciously.
BOB
I thought we watched you every minute.
Phil holds up his hand in "Scout's honor."
PHIL
Never stopped dancing.
Bob turns back to the table.
BOB
(To the girls)
Can we help?
JUDY
(Fearful)
I've never been arrested!
PHIL
There's nothing to it!
BOB
Don't get panicky!
NOVELLO
Yes, don't get excited, you still
have to give your show!
(Apologetically)
He's not going to arrest them until
after the show!
BOB
That's considerate! How'd you arrange
that?
NOVELLO
I'm a taxpayer here! You better go
in and change, girls! You haven't
much time!
The girls start off, confused. Novello, Bob and Phil follow.
BOB
May I enquire what you are being
arrested for?
BETTY
The owner of the hotel we were at
says we dropped a cigarette on his
rug and burned it.
JUDY
We couldn't have dropped a cigarette
because we don't smoke.
BETTY
He wants two hundred dollars, but
it's just plain stealing.
JUDY
We left the money for our bill in an
envelope on the bed.
BETTY
Then we dropped the bags out the
window and checked them at the depot.
JUDY
What are we going to do now?
NOVELLO
You have to give another show.
He leaves them, as Bob and Phil look unpleasantly after him.
They have reached the wings.
INT. WINGS - MED. SHOT
STAGEHAND is setting up a record on a record-playing mechanism
backstage, as the group passes by heading for the dressing
rooms.
PHIL
The old burned rug routine.
BOB
Kind of old fashioned, isn't it?
I thought that went out with the
Cherry Sisters. We'll have to do
something.
PHIL
(Hopefully)
Got a flash?
BOB
A glimmer. Have to stir it around a
little.
The girls have opened the door to their dressing room.
JUDY
We wouldn't want you boys to get
into any trouble.
INT. DRESSING ROOM - MED. SHOT
As they all enter.
PHIL
Why not? Maybe we'll all wind up in
the same cell.
As they close the door,
DISSOLVE TO:
INT. NOVELLO'S OFFICE - MED. SHOT
Novello is with the SHERIFF and the LANDLORD. The Sheriff
is a husky fellow. At the moment he's eating an eclair and
coffee, from Novello's desk. The Landlord glares at him.
LANDLORD
That's the second dessert you've
had, Sheriff!
SHERIFF
Real good, too.
LANDLORD
I haven't got all night to wait here
while you eat free food! You've got
your warrant, arrest those girls!
SHERIFF
(Displeased)
Now, we agreed to let them finish
their show first.
LANDLORD
I didn't agree!
(To Novello)
That was his idea!
NOVELLO
I've got some rights, too. You don't
get those girls until after they've
done their number!
LANDLORD
Well, how long is it going to take?
Novello puts his hand up, listening.
NOVELLO
Wait a minute! That's their music!
He gets up, opens the office door, and we HEAR their entrance
music, as before, and the Orchestra Leader's voice, "The
Stewart Sisters."
MED. SHOT - CAFE FLOOR
Bob and Phil stand with their backs to the audience.
They turn, face front, and we realize they are mouthing to a
record.
CLOSE SHOT - WINGS - RECORD PLAYER
We identify that the music is coming from this spinning record
player we have previously established.
34-A.
MED. SHOT - CAFE FLOOR
Bob and Phil do the number.
MED. SHOT - AUDIENCE
They APPLAUD at end of number.
MED. SHOT - INT. NOVELLO'S OFFICE
We faintly HEAR the applause.
LANDLORD
They're clapping! It's over! Arrest
them!
The Sheriff gets up.
CUT TO:
MED. SHOT - CAFE FLOOR
The boys bow themselves off, and run toward their dressing
room.
MED. SHOT - CORRIDOR
They hurry down the corridor, passing the office door.
BOB
Get out of these clothes! Toot sweet!
PHIL
Ma, unhook my bra!
The office door opens behind them, which they do not see.
The Sheriff steps out, followed by the Landlord and Novello.
SHERIFF
(Calm)
Just a second, folks! I'll handle
this!
(He walks to the
dressing room door)
MED. CLOSE SHOT - DRESSING ROOM DOOR
There is a plaque attached to the key in the lock. The
Sheriff smilingly turns the key in the lock. He puts the
key in his pocket.
SHERIFF
(Winking)
You stay here. Let them try to go
through the window.
The landlord is delighted.
LANDLORD
If they make a break for it, shoot
'em!
WIPE TO:
MED SHOT - EXT. CAFE - (NIGHT) - SHERIFF
The Sheriff walks around the corner of the cafe, and a police
car awaits, with cop at the wheel.
SHERIFF
Just a minute, Hank, couple of
customers coming up.
HANK
Okay, boss.
The Sheriff continues to the window of our dressing room.
MED CLOSE SHOT - DRESSING ROOM WINDOW
It opens. The Sheriff watches it. Out comes Phil's legs,
meaning to get out backwards. The Sheriff applies both hands
and pushes back.
SHERIFF
Back you go, boys!
He pushes Phil in. Nimbly, he raises himself in.
MED. SHOT - INT. DRESSING ROOM
The Sheriff is in the room. He looks coolly at the boys,
who are now in their own clothes. He stares at them. They
stare at him. Recognition comes all at once.
PHIL
Pete!
SHERIFF
Phil! Bob!
BOB
Pete!
They all throw their arms around each other, pounding
violently. 'No! Wow! You dirty skunk! You grave robber!'
PHIL
(Unbelieving)
Are you the Sheriff here?
SHERIFF
You bet I am!
BOB
How'd you get in this line of work?
SHERIFF
After I got out of the army I sat
down and figured it out! Who never
got in trouble in the army? The
M.P.'s! They were the ones who
arrested you! So I came back here
and ran for Sheriff!
BOB
A civilian M.P.! If the fellows
ever saw you now! They'd skin you
alive!
PHIL
You ever see any of them?
SHERIFF
Whitey Harris and Jack Ross have a
filling station near here!
BOB
Jack Ross! Will you ever forget the
party he threw in Naples?
PHIL
In a captured brewery. Very sensible,
giving a party in a brewery. Cuts
out the middleman.
BOB
Do you remember when Danny Beasly
climbed up -
(As he says 'Danny
Beasly' he recalls
Danny is dead)
- the tower of the City Hall and
rang the bell by swinging on the
clapper? He couldn't hear anything
for two days.
SHERIFF
Danny Beasly! Too bad he didn't
make it.
BOB
Not everybody was lucky.
PHIL
We were lucky in one thing - the old
man.
SHERIFF
You can say that again. Say I'm
supposed to arrest a couple of dames!
A fellow swore out a warrant!
PHIL
He's a crook! Burned a hole in a
rug and is trying to hold up two
kids.
SHERIFF
You don't say!
BOB
(At his watch)
We got to get our bags and be at the
station in ten minutes! We'll never
make it!
SHERIFF
Just a moment!
(He goes to the window)
Hank !
REVERSE ANGLE - POLICE CAR - SHOOTING BY SHERIFF
Hank looks up enquiringly.
HANK
Yes, sir.
SHERIFF
Take my friends where they want to
go!
HANK
Yes, sir.
SHERIFF
Hurry up!
BOB
(Going out the window)
Thanks, Pete.
EXT. WINDOW - POLICE CAR
Hank has thrown the door open.
PHIL
Do you think we can make it?
HANK
This thing goes over a hundred an
hour! Hold on!
He starts with his red lights going, his siren screaming,
and tires grinding.
MED. SHOT - INT. DRESSING ROOM
The Sheriff watches them go, pleased. A pounding on the
door recalls the Landlord, and he frowns. He strides to the
door, takes out his key and opens it.
MED. SHOT - CORRIDOR
The Landlord and Novello are looking out the window at the
departing police car, the noise having distracted them from
the door pounding. The siren is still heard, retreating.
The Sheriff snaps his cigarette at their feet. They turn to
him, faces alight.
SHERIFF
They escaped! We're pursuing 'em!
LANDLORD
Escaped!
SHERIFF
(Pointing)
What do you mean smoking on theatrical
premises!
LANDLORD
That's not mine! I wasn't smoking!
SHERIFF
What's that burning? A lollypop?
(He grabs him by the
shoulder, not too
gently, and starts
him out)
Come on!
He protests, 'What - !' 'But!' Novello is openmouthed.
WIPE TO:
EXT. STATION - (NIGHT)
The train is already moving as the police car arrives.
The girls are on the observation platform. The police car
screams to a stop. The boys fly out, with bags, and just
make the train, the girls pulling them aboard.
JUDY
(Seriously)
You didn't steal the police car?
PHIL
No, no. Friend of ours.
They go toward the lounge car.
MED. SHOT - INT. LOUNGE CAR - GROUP
They all take seats in the lounge car, happy to have
accomplished their escape.
BOB
Well, we'll be together as far as
New York.
BETTY
Maybe it'll snow in New York for
Christmas. If it doesn't, we'll
mail you a snowball from Vermont.
JUDY
I haven't been on ice skates in years.
PHIL
Ice? You mean the stuff in a Scotch
and soda?
(Suddenly)
Bob, how about snow for Christmas?
BOB
You'll only thaw it out.
PHIL
Come on, Bob, we could have a great
week up in Vermont.
Bob looks from him to Judy, whose expression is almost
pleading.
BOB
I see what you mean. But Wednesday
we've got to be back in New York.
PHIL
All right -- so it's just for a couple
of days. Don't you want me to enjoy
the winter sports?
BOB
You enjoy them all year round.
(He looks to Betty)
We won't get in your way, will we?
BETTY
As long as your friend doesn't try
to take my sister for a sleigh ride.
BOB
If he tries it, I'll smash his
flexible flyer.
(To Phil)
It's all set.
PHIL
(Really pleased)
The thing I like about you, Bob, is
you're not only kind and generous,
you're handsome.
BOB
We're going to have to sit up all
night. Let's get some shut eye.
DISSOLVE TO:
FULL SHOT - EXT. TRAIN - (NIGHT)
The rhythm of the wheels and the engine funnel, underscored
musically.
MED. SHOT - INT. TRAIN
All but Phil are half dozing. One or two other people are
seen in the background, asleep. There is an air of peace
and quiet in the car, as the music underscoring continues.
Their faces are occasionally streaked with light flashes
emanating from the surrounding countryside. Phil turns to
the side of the car and sees a bill poster showing a copy of
a winter scene from the Grandma Moses collection, advertising
Vermont. CAMERA PULLS UP TO scene, the music swells and we
DISSOLVE to a similar landscape in stylized concept. This
is the WINTER FANTASY production number. At the end of the
fantasy we hear the Conductor's voice, "Pine Tree. Pine
Tree, Vermont."
MED. SHOT - OUR GROUP - (DAY)
They are bundling themselves up, coat collars tight, expecting
to enter the snow country.
REVERSE ANGLE - SCENE THROUGH PLATFORM DOOR
Pine Tree Station, all green, no snow. Four hotel busses
await, one marked 'Columbia Inn Bus.'
FULL SHOT - PINE TREE STATION - (GLASS SHOT)
Our foursome is just getting off the train. They are the
only ones. They are looking about, puzzled.
PHIL
Are you sure this is the right
Vermont?
BOB
This isn't a southern Vermont?
JUDY
I don't understand it.
BETTY
There has to be snow! This place is
advertised as America's Snow
Playground!
BOB
Well, if you say so.
(Gesturing to the
waiting Columbia Inn
bus driver)
Driver, your sleigh and reindeer.
The other three bus drivers are disappointed.
DISSOLVE TO:
FULL SHOT - BUS EN ROUTE
The bus goes by an incongruous skating rink, with water
instead of ice. Signs indicate the direction of the sun
scorched toboggan slide.
WIPE TO:
MED. SHOT - BUS EN ROUTE
The bus winds around another turn in the beautiful green
surroundings and we pass a ski lift and a ski jumping
platform.
WIPE TO:
MED. SHOT - BUS EN ROUTE
Still another turn of the bus, and in the distance we see a
LONG SHOT of the Columbia Inn.
MED. SHOT - INT. COLUMBIA INN
MARTHA, a sixty year old spinsterish woman, good of heart,
forbidding exterior, is occupied at the desk.
The door opens and a pretty fifteen year old, SUSAN, carrying
the mail, walks toward her.
SUSAN
Mail, Martha.
She puts the mail on the desk.
MARTHA
(As she shuffles
through it)
What's the weather forecast down at
the Post Office?
SUSAN
Awful. Fair and warmer.
MARTHA
If we don't get snow soon we can
turn this hotel into a haunted house.
We haven't had a guest for three
weeks.
SUSAN
(As Martha keeps
searching through
the mail)
What are you looking for?
MARTHA
(Not finding it)
Your grandfather's written Washington
asking if he can get back in active
service. I think he wants to fly
jets.
SUSAN
I think he could do it.
MARTHA
He says older men have been called,
and besides, he misses the food. I
tell you, Susan, he tried to make it
a casual letter, with little jokes,
but it came out just begging.
Through the huge window behind Susan and Martha we see the
figure of a man in overalls, bending over an incinerator,
shoveling the ashes into a wheelbarrow.
His back is to CAMERA.
SUSAN
(Moved)
Oh, Martha! What are we going to
do?
MARTHA
(Blowing her nose)
I don't know. Don't let on we know
he's written. He'll start in I'm
only his housekeeper and that I found
out through some chicanery or
something.
SUSAN
(Soothing her)
How did you find out?
MARTHA
Like any housekeeper -- I read the
carbon paper.
(She hands the mail
to Susan)
Bring him the mail.
Susan starts out as CAMERA MOVES UP to window. After a
moment, Susan appears and crosses to the man in overalls.
He straightens up, dusts off his hands, and as he turns to
take the letters, we see for the first time that he is General
Waverly. He looks through them, eagerly, then, downcast,
shoves them in his overalls and goes back to his work.
DISSOLVE TO:
58-59
OMITTED
FULL SHOT - EXT. INN - (DAY)
The bus comes to a stop and our principals get out, Phil
staying with the driver for the luggage. The others enter
the inn.
MED. SHOT - INT. INN
Martha at the desk, and her eyes widen in surprise.
MARTHA
(Happily)
Welcome to Columbia Inn. How do you
do?
ALL
How do you do?
MARTHA
(Offering pen)
What kind of accommodations would
you like? We can give you a fairly
wide choice--any room in the Inn,
including mine.
BETTY
We're not here as guests. We're the
Stewart sisters.
MARTHA
(Disappointed)
Oh.
BOB
My friend and I are guests. We've
come down for the snow. Where are
you keeping it?
MARTHA
We take it in during the day!
BOB
(Looking around)
What are your rates here?
MARTHA
Make us an offer.
(To the girls)
I'm afraid we won't be able to use
you. We'll pay you the half salary
for canceling.
JUDY
Oh, no! Are things that bad?
MARTHA
We're using the ski-tow to hang the
wash on.
(To Bob)
You're not going to stay either, are
you?
BOB
(Shaking his head)
I'm afraid not, ma'am.
Through the door comes Waverly, carrying a load of wood in
one arm, and a bucket of coke in the other hand. Susan
follows carrying an armful of kindling.
Bob turns away.
BOB
I'll tell Phil to leave the luggage -
(It hits him, he comes
to a stop, and then
to attention)
General Waverly! Sir!
WAVERLY
(Easy, simple)
At ease! How are you, Captain.
BOB
I'm fine, sir.
(But he looks around
questioningly,
bewildered)
WAVERLY
(Smiling)
We just try to keep the General part
quiet.
BOB
Why?
(Reminding himself)
Begging your pardon, sir.
WAVERLY
Well, to put it in one sentence,
people don't expect major generals
to carry firewood.
Through the door comes Phil, fast, talking:
PHIL
Bob, I was thinking we ought to -
Phil has his arm out indicating the direction of the door,
when he sees Waverly. He freezes. He brings his hand up to
a salute, from that position.
WAVERLY
At ease!
PHIL
Oh, sir!
(Horrified)
A janitor!
WAVERLY
Never thought I'd make it, he?
...Matter of fact, it's worse than
that. I own this hotel.
MARTHA
He got it in a shrewd business move.
BETTY
(To Bob)
Was everybody in your outfit? We
seem to run into them all over the
country.
BOB
The Draft Board didn't know when to
stop.
WAVERLY
If I start the introductions, can I
get to meet these young ladies?
(Indicating them)
My housekeeper, Miss Martha Allen,
my granddaughter, Susan Waverly.
BOB
I'm Bob Wallace -- this is Phil Davis --
BETTY
We're the Stewart sisters.
JUDY
Your floor show.
MARTHA
(To Waverly)
Don't worry -- I've already told
them we'd have to cancel.
WAVERLY
Why? We have a floor, haven't we?
MARTHA
Last time I looked. But who are
they going to sing to?
WAVERLY
Even if it's only to you and me, it
will be well worth it. Besides,
there will be six inches of snow
tonight and we'll be full up tomorrow.
BETTY
(Happily)
Is that the weather forecast?
WAVERLY
No. But if there was one thing I
learned in the army it was to be
positive -- especially when you don't
know what you're talking about. You'll
excuse me, gentlemen, I'm on K.P.
Phil and Bob stiffen automatically.
PHIL AND BOB
Yes, sir!
WAVERLY
(To Betty and Judy)
And you two charming ladies, I want
you to know I'm looking forward to
your show this evening. Whatever
your audience lacks in numbers, it
will make up for in enthusiasm --
(He glares at Martha)
or I'll know the reason why!
He smiles at the girls, and exits, dignified.
JUDY
(Utterly charmed)
Gee... no wonder we won the war!
DISSOLVE TO:
INT. DINING ROOM INN - (NIGHT) - MED. CLOSE SHOT -
BETTY AND JUDY
They are doing the number, SISTERS, on the floor. THE CAMERA
PULLS BACK to reveal the scene. There is a scant audience
distributed at several tables, totaling not more than fourteen
in number. Not far from the kitchen entrance Bob and Phil
are sitting at one table.
Martha is seen doing general overseeing, principally acting
as hostess. Susan doubles between the cashier's desk and
helping out at table.
MED. CLOSE SHOT - BOB AND PHIL
They are admiring the performance. Phil indicates for Bob
to look in this direction. Bob does.
REVERSE ANGLE - MED. SNOT
The General is seating a table.
MED. SHOT - BOB AND PHIL
Bob shakes his head, unhappy at this condition. They look
at each other.
BOB
I think well stay a little longer
than we planned.
MED. FULL SHOT - BETTY AND JUDY
They finish the number and are applauded enthusiastically,
but the few people in the audience don't make for much
clatter. One set of hands seems to be applauding loudest
and clearest.
MED. SHOT - GENERAL WAVERLY
He is the one doing the enthusiastic applauding. He walks
toward the boys, still applauding. They applaud too. The
girls enter the scene, to sit with the boys.
Martha is only applauding politely, until Waverly glares at
her. Then her enthusiasm is boundless.
WAVERLY
Excellent. I enjoyed it very much.
JUDY
Thank you.
MARTHA
It was nice, if you like music.
A waitress brings food, which Martha helps distribute.
BETTY
(After a look that
the waitress is not
in a position to
hear)
Mister Waverly, we'd like to make
you a proposition.
WAVERLY
(Smiling)
Well, for heaven's sake!
BETTY
You've been very nice not canceling,
we'd like to make a gesture. Until
it snows, and you have guests, we'll
take half salary.
MARTHA
(Appreciative)
That's really nice of you.
(She takes out pencil
and her order book)
Now let's get that in writing.
WAVERLY
(Pushing it aside)
Never heard of anything so ridiculous.
(Gets up)
Your next performance is tomorrow
night, after dinner. Be here, or
I'll sue!
He dignifiedly walks in the direction of some departing
guests, and proceeds to show them to the door.
MARTHA
(Annoyed)
Light-Horse Harry. Advance, advance,
never retreat! He's advancing right
into bankruptcy.
PHIL
That's just the way he was in the
army. Always thinking of the other
fellow.
BOB
We ate and then he ate. We slept,
and then he slept.
PHIL
Then he woke up, and nobody slept
for the next forty-eight hours.
MARTHA
I happen to know he's sunk his life's
savings into this place. I read the
carbon paper.
JUDY
Gee, I wish there were something we
could do to help.
BOB
Maybe there is.
PHIL
You got a flash?
BOB
A glimmer. Have to stir it around a
bit.
PHIL
(To the girls)
Shhh!
(Indicating Bob,
tapping his forehead)
Ticking away madly. Wheels within
wheels. This is the brain that, in
darkest Italy, devised a formula to
make food out of K-Ration! Shhhhhh!
As he regards Bob with something akin to awe, we
DISSOLVE TO:
MED. SHOT - INT. LOBBY - (NIGHT)
The last of the supper audience is leaving. We see into a
room which adjoins the reservation desk and Bob is on the
phone.
CLOSE SHOT - INT. INN OFFICE
Phil is sitting on the desk while Bob talks.
BOB
(Into phone)
Relax... I didn't ask you how much
it'll cost us...
(We hear an excited
high voice on the
phone)
Easy, easy, remember your blood
pressure... I don't care how much
it'll cost us... That's better...
Have everybody on the train first
thing in the morning. The whole
Troupe, and the scenery, and the
costumes... You'll have to cancel us
off the Ed Harrison Show... Oscar,
remember your blood pressure.
Incidentally, how much will this
cost?
(He hears some figure. -
It obviously is a
very large number)
Good night, Oscar.
(He hangs up)
There you are.
PHIL
Incidentally, how much will this
cost?
BOB
(Clears his throat)
We are coming out - even.
PHIL
You mean flat?
BOB
That's the same as even.
PHIL
Wheels within wheels. It's nice how
you take care of the money for both
of us because you're older and so
level headed. I wonder where I'd be
now if hadn't saved your life?
BOB
Do you want me to cancel the troupe
coming?
PHIL
(Getting off the desk)
No, no. Let's go through the gesture.
If you had been on the Titanic when
it went down, you wouldn't've been
satisfied just to sink into the ocean.
(Gesturing)
You'd have done a swan dive into it.
With me on your back!
DISSOLVE TO:
FULL SHOT - COLUMBIA INN FLOOR - (DAY)
The scene is a melee of the excitement accompanying
preparations for the show. The little stage has been enlarged -
the draperies pulled back right and left and a side wall
pushed back a little farther. There is hammering and painting
going on in various parts of the room. Trunks have been
unpacked and wardrobe hung up in odd places, as more trunks
arrive. Girls in abbreviated rehearsal clothes walk around,
do cartwheels; two people sing at the piano; six girls kick
in unison; altogether, it is quite a contrast to the bareness
of the previous scene.
THE CAMERA TRUCKS through all the activity, taking in our
group at the doorway, which features Bob and Phil, the girls
standing nearby. Martha and Susan are amazed at the activity.
MARTHA
I can't believe it! You mean you
brought the whole show up here?
BOB
When you hired the Stewart sisters
you also hired a New York show. It
was in the small print.
PHIL
And you can't get out of it. We've
got lawyers.
SUSAN
I can't thank you enough, but I wonder
if Gramp'll let you do it?
PHIL
Why not?
MARTHA
His pride. When he decides he's
going into bankruptcy he likes to
go.
BOB
Now just a second. We're not doing
this for him!
PHIL
Oh no! We're bringing the show down
here to rehearse!
BOB
The company's been getting a little
ragged. We'd appreciate the use of
the hall.
PHIL
Of course we don't expect it free!
BOB
We'll pay a little, but not much. -
You see, the audience will be guinea-
pigs -- and for us, that's quite an
improvement.
This has not fooled Susan. She throws her arms around Bob
and then Phil.
SUSAN
I don't know what to say!
She cannot refrain from tears of gratitude and turns and
runs out. There is a moment of silence.
BOB
I hope this is not an indication of
advancing age, getting kissed out of
gratitude.
PHIL
You didn't expect a girl that pretty
to kiss you because she wanted to?
BOB
A body keeps hoping.
Betty steps up to him and gives him the biggest smack.
Bob is quite surprised.
BETTY
(Sincerely)
That was the nicest thing I ever saw
anybody do.
BOB
It was still gratitude.
PHIL
(To Judy)
I'm his partner. I'm entitled to
half the credit.
(Judy steps up to him
and just pecks him
on the cheek, then
joins her sister in
rehearsal)
She's not as grateful as her sister.
They look off through the exit and see a moving van unloading
scenery, as the General arrives in his buggy.
He steps down and looks with amazement at the scenery passing
by.
DISSOLVE TO:
EXT. INN - (DAY) - MED. CLOSE SHOT - WAVERLY, BOB AND PHIL
Waverly is looking interestedly at the goings on, but is
puzzled. The boys exchange a glance.
WAVERLY
(Finally)
I'm not clear about some of it.
Explain it again.
PHIL
(Not too good a job)
Well, sir. We have this show, and
we laid off for the holidays. You
see, business was bad.
WAVERLY
I know about business being bad.
Go on.
PHIL
Yes sir. Well, so we figured as
long as we had the opportunity we'd
do a little rehearsing. Right here.
WAVERLY
Why here?
(There is a hint here
of the General)
Phil looks to Bob for help as they
move toward the lobby.
The troupe is busy transporting the costumes, etc., from the
moving van to the dining room auditorium as the above scene
is played.
BOB
Well, sir, this nice empty room.
The minute we looked at it we said
it was ideal. Didn't we?
PHIL
That's what we said. Ideal.
BOB
And then we'll have an audience to
play to. You see, sir, you need an
audience on which to try out your
new material.
WAVERLY
Where are you going to get the
audience?
PHIL
Oh, what guests there are in the
other hotels. They're pretty bored
here without snow, and a New York
show's kind of a novelty in Vermont.
WAVERLY
I would think so.
(He thinks)
How will they know you're here?
BOB
Oh, word gets around.
PHIL
Yes sir, and we also took the girls
twice around the town for a little
run. They were stiff from the train.
In their practice clothes.
BOB
Makes the blood circulate,
WAVERLY
(Hers no dope)
Hmm. Whose blood?
BOB AND PHIL
Yes sir.
WAVERLY
Apparently there must be a lot about
show business I don't understand.
PHIL
It'll come to you, sir.
BOB
It just takes time.
PHIL
We wouldn't be any good as generals.
WAVERLY
You weren't any good as privates!
PHIL
(Pointing to Bob)
He was an officer, sir.
WAVERLY
Only to confuse the enemy.
He turns away and goes to his quarters.
DISSOLVE TO:
MED. SHOT - INT. INN FLOOR - (DAY)
The company is rehearsing as Bob and Phil enter.
BOB
That's all for today, kids.
People break off what they were doing and begin to drift
out. Bob and Phil have gone toward Betty and Judy.
BOB
Get a little rest before tonight's
performance.
PHIL
(To Judy)
I'll walk you over.
BOB
Phil!
(He takes a sheet of
music out of his
inside pocket)
Look this over, I want to try
something.
PHIL
(To Judy)
See you later.
The girls go. Phil goes toward the piano, Bob goes toward
Martha, who is on the phone, accepting reservations.
FULL SHOT - ROOM
Bob takes Martha by the arm and seats her in the middle of
the room as an audience of one. Phil looks up from the piano,
puzzled. The sunset is visible through the window and there
is a mood of quiet.
MARTHA
Guinea pig?
BOB
(Nodding)
That's the idea. Want you to hear a
song I just wrote.
MARTHA
If it's a love song, don't get too
close.
BOB
It isn't. Just tell me how you think
the Old Man would feel about this
one.
He leaves her and goes to the piano and they do WHAT CAN YOU
DO WITH A GENERAL, solely for Martha.
Toward the end of the song --
MED. CLOSE SHOT - GENERAL WAVERLY
Unseen by the others he is standing by the door listening to
the song.
MED. SHOT - INT. ROOM
The boys finish the number. Martha applauds and Bob bows.
MARTHA
(Very moved)
I think it's just wonderful --
CLOSE SHOT - SUSAN - AT KITCHEN DOOR
She is standing there, drying her eyes with her apron.
SUSAN
I think so, too.
CLOSE SHOT - WAVERLY - AT THE DOOR
WAVERLY
I'm afraid I disagree. The song is
funny, but there is one thing wrong
with it.
PHIL'S VOICE
What's that, sir?
WAVERLY
It's true. I'd rather you didn't.
FULL SHOT - INT. INN FLOOR
Bob and Phil exchange a quick glance.
BOB AND PHIL
Yes, sir.
The General turns and exits toward the lobby, THE CAMERA
PANS with him, a lonely figure walking through the lobby,
the CAMERA STOPPING on a poster advertising tonight's
performance.
DISSOLVE TO:
FULL SHOT - INT. INN FLOOR - (NIGHT)
It is fairly-well filled. Bob, Phil, Betty, Judy and the
ensemble are performing a NUMBER which is a MINSTREL SHOW
routine done to lyrics and music. Bob and Phil are end men,
Betty is interlocutor, and Judy is later introduced as Mandy.
This takes Judy and Phil into a dance to the song MANDY.
This entire number is done in white-face with stylized
costumes and set. During the applause and bows, we CUT TO:
MED. SHOT - WAVERLY TABLE
Waverly, flanked by Susan and Martha, is at a large table.
The other occupants are local hotel owners and their wives.
FIRST OWNER
Great show, Waverly.
WAVERLY
Thank you.
SECOND OWNER
We needed something like this. I
had six checkouts, and when they
heard about this they decided to
stay.
FIRST OWNER
Same here.
(Big smile)
Much obliged.
WAVERLY
Glad to help.
Martha and Susan beam; all is well.
DISSOLVE TO:
FULL SHOT - INT. INN FLOOR - (NIGHT)
It is empty and most of the lights are out. At a considerable
distance from CAMERA Martha extinguishes the last light,
except for a small work light which is servicing Bob, who is
fingering the piano keys and writing music notes, hard at
work.
FULL SHOT - GIRLS' BUNGALOW
In the background we see the boys' bungalow.
MED. SHOT - INT. GIRLS' BUNGALOW
Betty and Judy are in twin beds, the light is coming in from
the moon. The girls are seen in profile.
JUDY
(Talkative)
The moon! I can't get over the
moon up here. The size of it!
BETTY
(In a quiet mood)
Same one they have all over.
JUDY
They'll never prove it to me. And
everything smells so beautiful.
(She breathes)
What is it - pine or fir?
BETTY
(Small sniff)
We're near the bakery.
JUDY
(Friendly, not
realizing the stab)
You know your trouble, Betty? You're
not romantic.
Betty turns and looks toward her. Since Judy does not see
her, Betty's expression is a true reflection of how she feels.
JUDY
Everything's so wonderful here, so
pretty, so exciting, I can't
understand how you stay frozen up.
Let yourself go, go, like me!
BETTY
(Afraid to ask)
Which one is it?
JUDY
What do you mean?
BETTY
Bob or Phil?
JUDY
Neither.
BETTY
You mean both.
JUDY
(Smiling)
It's the same. No one is going to
break up our act.
BETTY
Isn't there one you prefer over the
other?
JUDY
The way Phil dances, and he's funny.
It's easy to see yourself married to
him.
BETTY
(An effort)
And Bob?
JUDY
He's different, deeper, and he's
funny, too. It'd be nice to be
married to both of them.
BETTY
Good thing they're not a quartette.
JUDY
(Oblivious)
If I was Catherine the Great, that's
what I'd do. Phil in the daytime,
Bob at night. Or should it be the
other way around?
CLOSE SHOT - JUDY AND BETTY
SHOOTING PAST Betty. Is it possible our Betty has a suspicion
of a tear?
JUDY
Phil'd be more fun in a night club,
but eventually a girl wants a pipe
and slipper fellow. That's Bob,
smoking a pipe and petting a cocker
spaniel. Still, Phil could learn to
smoke a pipe. Breaking a fellow in
to suit you is something every girl
should go through. I hear it's half
the fun. Which one do you like
better? Betty?
(No answer.)
Betty?
(Softer)
Are you asleep?
(No answer. Judy turns
over and closes her
eyes)
Music has underscored this scene. Betty is wide awake.
She is looking toward the window. As the curtains billow
outward we see a diffused figure of Bob, sitting on a fence,
putting out his pipe. This is followed by an equally diffused
figure of Betty, leaving her bed, crossing the furniture,
and joining Bob. Bob takes her in his arms. At this point
we are brought back to reality by the wind slamming a shutter.
This causes the diffusion to vanish, and Betty gets out of
bed and puts on her robe.
DISSOLVE TO:
INT. INN KITCHEN - MED. SHOT - (NIGHT)
We PAN Betty to the refrigerator door, which she opens.
BOB'S VOICE
Tuna fish, on the lower shelf.
Betty whirls around.
MED. SHOT - BETTY AND BOB
We see Bob is having a snack of his own.
BETTY
Oh!
BOB
What are you doing? Sleep-walking?
BETTY
I couldn't sleep.
BOB
Little young for that, aren't you?
He gets up and goes to the refrigerator. His preoccupation
with the food will permit Betty's expression to be more
obvious than her lines, which are spoken to tell the audience
of her regard for Bob, since their significance must escape
him.
BOB
What shall I make you?
BETTY
Anything'll do.
BOB
If you tell me what you want to dream
about I'll know what to make you.
BETTY
(Amused)
How's that?
BOB
Different foods make for different
dreams. I've got a whole theory
about it. It's called "The Wallace
Way of Wishful Wooing." You'll find
it in the American Medical Journal
under 'W'. Ham and Swiss cheese,
for instance, you get a cool, thin,
blonde girl. Turkey sandwich, you
get a dark sort of stumpy girl, sexy
though. Now a liverwurst sandwich -
(He shakes his head)
you get both girls at once. Bad
night.
BETTY
What do you dream on tuna?
BOB
Darndest thing, I dream about me.
BETTY
(Evenly)
Then I'll have a tuna sandwich.
Bob doesn't get the significance of what she has said.
BOB
Now that's very flattering. Tuna
coming up.
(He is occupied at
the frigidaire while
she watches him
yearningly)
Let me make you some warm milk.
That'll help the insomnia.
BETTY
(Meaningly)
No it won't.
(Looking straight at
his back)
Warm milk won't do it.
BOB
Whatever you've got on your mind
isn't worth staying awake for.
BETTY
I think it is.
He smiles at her, oblivious to the meaning behind her lines.
BOB
Would you like to know how I handle
a situation like that...?
BETTY
Tell me, Doctor...
Bob begins to sing COUNT YOUR BLESSINGS, as he prepares the
warm milk and hands it to her. She drinks it down. As he
reaches the second chorus, he starts to dim the lamp on the
table, Betty, pretending to be sleepy, leans her head toward
Bob.
He takes a pillow from a nearby chair and puts it between
her head and her chair. She waits, eyes closed, expectantly.
But Bob gets to his feet, and carefully tiptoes to the door
and exits, closing it softly behind him. After a moment,
Betty snaps on the light, throws the pillow on the floor,
and rests her chin in her hand, disappointed and wide awake.
FADE OUT
FADE IN:
LONG SHOT - INT. INN FLOOR - (DAY)
Various members of the company are in rehearsal clothes and
sitting around the room. The orchestra is playing the
introduction to Phil's number, which will employ a line of
six girls who are just coming on the floor.
Bob is on stage supervising the rehearsal. Judy is standing
across from the piano. Betty is seated on the sidelines
with her legs stretched over two chairs.
She is knitting a loud colored argyle sock. Phil, standing
close by, has just finished rolling up a ball of yarn. He
looks at Betty's knitting, then at his feet.
PHIL
Don't make them too tight. I wear
size 12.
BOB
All right kids! Places! Let's get
going! Phil, you're on!
Phil reacts.
Bob crosses to his stage manager station, which is a desk
and high chair, where Albert is seated, not far from his
wife, Sylvia, who is sipping a glass of water. Albert holds
a stop watch and evidently helps in the administration.
BOB
(To Albert)
How long are we so far?
ALBERT
An hour and ten minutes.
BOB
Something has to come out.
From his position, Phil, in a series of leaps and turns,
reaches center floor and begins his solo.
CLOSE SHOT - BETTY
She continues knitting while watching Phil dancing.
As Phil comes to a portion where he speeds up his steps she
unconsciously speeds up her knitting, Bob has seen her, and
he looks from her knitting and her look of admiration, which
he mistakes for affection, and then looks from the socks to
Phil's feet. At the end of the number, which is applauded
by the witnesses, Judy runs to Phil and hugs and kisses him,
THE CAMERA STAYING at this distance.
Bob, looking at Betty, mistakenly sees her disappointment.
BOB
All right, places for the next number!
(He turns to Sylvia)
You're next, Sylvia.
(Sylvia and Albert
exchange peculiar
glances, Bob senses
it)
What's the trouble?
ALBERT
Mr. Wallace -
(He is embarrassed to
go on)
BOB
Come on, out with it.
ALBERT
I don't think Sylvia ought to go on,
unless you cut out the high kicks
and let her do some easy waltzes.
Very easy waltzes.
Bob looks from one to the other and their smiling shyness
indicates pregnancy.
BOB
You're kidding!
SYLVIA
We don't want anyone else to know.
ALBERT
Please don't mention it.
(The orchestra starts
to play ROCKABYE
BABY. Sylvia and
Albert are startled)
For heaven's sake!
SYLVIA
How did they know?
The girls start crowding around.
GIRLS
(Ad libbing)
You wouldn't tell us, would you? We
had to find out ourselves, etc.
(Phil and Judy are
among the group)
MARTHA
(Formally)
There will be a celebration of the
forthcoming event tonight after the
show!
(Everyone approves)
MED. SHOT - BOB, PHIL AND ALBERT
Phil puts his arm around Albert.
PHIL
Obviously you're going to call the
boy after me!
BOB
After you? I hired Sylvia! The
baby'll be named after me!
PHIL
I've been dancing with her! That's
more important! The baby'll be named
after me!
BOB
The hiring was more important! After
me!
PHIL
The dancing was more important!
After me!
ALBERT
I'm her husband.
(Small pause)
The baby'll be named after me.
BOB
Well, we're going to need another
dancer!
PHIL
How about Judy, she knows all the
routines, she could pick it up in no
time.
They walk to the table where the coffee is, and the group
now includes Betty.
BOB
On the other hand, it's all right if
we lose a number, we're running too
long now. We have to cut somewhere.
BETTY
Wouldn't it be better if you cut my
solo number? I've never felt right
in it anyway.
(Indicating Phil)
The show needs every bit of his
dancing.
BOB
(Interpreting this as
mere selflessness
for love)
Well -
BETTY
There you are - painless.
She turns away rather abruptly, since she is becoming
emotional. Bob shakes his head, impressed with what he thinks
is her devotion.
MED. CLOSE TWO SHOT - BOB AND PHIL
Bob dunks a doughnut into his coffee as he looks after Betty.
He looks at Phil and shakes his head.
BOB
Greater love hath no woman than to
give up a solo number. Old Chinese
saying.
PHIL
(All this is beyond
him)
What are you talking about?
BOB
Drink your coffee.
DISSOLVE TO:
FULL SHOT - WAVERLY QUARTERS - (NIGHT)
This is the party later that evening. Some people are
dancing. Others are grouped about, and there is a general
home party atmosphere. The General, Martha and Susan are
seen helping everyone to feel at home.
The CAMERA STARTS ON A LONG SHOT and DOLLIES THROUGH THE
GROUP, passing Sylvia, where ad lib comments about the
impending baby are sketchily HEARD. The CAMERA CONTINUES
toward the piano, where Bob and Betty are examining the music
sheet of A MAN CHASES A GIRL.
Betty looks up and the CAMERA FOLLOWS her look to Phil, who
is dancing with Rita. Rita nestles up close to Phil. This
is seen by Bob and Betty. Bob smiles.
CLOSE SHOT - PHIL AND RITA
On closer view, we can see that Rita is the aggressor.
PHIL
(Referring to the
grip)
Don't you want me to breathe?
RITA
Not especially.
PHIL
What's gotten into you?
RITA
You were chasing me in Florida.
PHIL
And you were running. What made you
stop?
RITA
You're interested in Judy, aren't
you?
PHIL
That's it, eh? Unless it belongs to
someone else, a girl doesn't - Ouch!
(Evidently Rita has
deliberately stepped
on his instep)
SCENE FROM BOB'S VIEWPOINT
Betty is walking over to the dancing couple and deliberately
cuts in on Rita, who is displeased, but can do nothing but
yield. Bob's reaction still implies that this is
understandable since Betty loves Phil. He turns back toward
the piano, and other couples are between him and Betty and
Phil.
Still at the same camera distance, we see Betty turning Phil
over to Judy.
CLOSE SHOT - PHIL AND JUDY
Judy is a little cool.
PHIL
What's the matter?
JUDY
Nothing is the matter.
PHIL
This isn't the way you dance.
JUDY
Some people dance closer than others.
Phil is delighted that she is jealous.
PHIL
Yes, that's true. I'm one of the
close ones. That's my type.
He holds her closely, by force, dancing, smiling and pleased
with himself.
MED. FULL SHOT - ROOM
The dance music stops. The people disperse.
MED. CLOSE SHOT - AT PIANO
Harry, the piano player, is playing the last half of A MAN
CHASES A GIRL. Bob and Betty are leaning over the piano,
Bob humming the melody. Betty pantomimes to the others to
quiet down. Bob starts to sing the lyric. In the second
chorus, he is joined in the singing by Betty. During this
chorus we CUT TO show various reactions of the group, and
end on Phil, sitting close to Judy, holding her hand.
CLOSE TWO SHOT - PHIL AND JUDY
We HEAR Bob and Betty, off scene, continuing to the end of
the second chorus, on which Phil, sotto voce, sings the last
four bars.
PHIL
(Singing; looking at
Judy)
And once you've caught him, don't
ever let him go.
APPLAUSE follows the song. Phil gets up.
PHIL
Ladies and gentlemen, I would like
to make an announcement.
FULL SHOT - CROWD
Everyone quiets, waiting to hear the announcement.
PHIL
It is my pleasure to identify the
man who has been doing the chasing.
I am him! - Or he! - Or it! Anyway,
Judy has caught me. What I'm trying
to say is, we're engaged.
He looks fondly at Judy, taking it for granted she is
overwhelmed at this method of announcing to her that he is
going to marry her. He hugs her amidst a general reaction
of congratulations.
MED. SHOT - BOB
He is flabbergasted.
MED. SHOT - GROUP
Phil and Judy are separated by the congratulators.
Betty, hiding her emotion, grips Phil's arm.
BETTY
I hope you realize that you're getting
he most wonderful girl in the world.
Bob sees her emotion through the speech. Betty notices Judy
upset, shaking off the people around her and running through
the doorway to the kitchen.
Betty makes her way through the crowd to follow her, as the
orchestra goes into HER COMES THE BRIDE.
MED. SHOT - INT. KITCHEN
Judy is crying into her hands as Betty enters.
BETTY
Darling, don't cry.
JUDY
(Turning to her)
I didn't know he was going to make
that announcement, I swear I didn't.
Betty puts one arm around her.
BETTY
I know you didn't.
JUDY
He had no right to do that.
BETTY
You do love him, don't you?
JUDY
That doesn't matter.
BETTY
Nothing else matters.
JUDY
We're not going to break up our act.
Phil enters the kitchen.
PHIL
I've been looking for you, Judy.
BETTY
Excuse me.
She goes through the corridor toward the living room.
MED. CLOSE SHOT - CORRIDOR OFF BUTLER'S PANTRY
In the background we see the General in the butler's pantry
getting some drinks for the guests. He is not seen by Betty
who stops at the mirror in the corridor to wipe away a few
tears. Bob comes into view in the mirror, entering the
corridor from the living room.
BOB
Don't take this too much to heart.
Phil is a great kid but constancy
isn't his long suit.
BETTY
I'm not the least bit worried.
(Phil and Judy enter
from the kitchen)
Frankly, this couldn't come at a
better time. They want me to come
back to The Carousel again - I used
to sing there before Judy and I teamed
up - and I had to turn it down because
they can only use a single.
(Not too well)
So - this couldn't be more convenient.
You stay with the show and I'll go
back to The Carousel.
JUDY
When did you get this offer?
BETTY
Just today, as a matter of fact. I
got a telegram.
JUDY
Why didn't you mention it before?
BETTY
I didn't want to hurt your feelings.
JUDY
Where is the telegram?
BETTY
I threw it away. What is this, a
third degree? You don't think I
made it up?
JUDY
Yes, I do.
There is a pause, and Waverly, who has been watching each
one, speaks.
WAVERLY
Well now, I wouldn't bet any large
sum of money on that, since I took
the message over the telephone, and
I had to deliver the telegram.
(To take the tension
off)
And she didn't tip me, either.
Betty looks at him gratefully.
JUDY
Oh, Betty!
(She throws her arms
around her)
I'm sorry! I misunderstood!
BETTY
Now, baby! It's all right!
PHIL
Well, everything's fine now!
Happy, he beams at Judy.
MED. CLOSE SHOT - BOB AND WAVERLY
Something bothers Bob about this story. He looks searchingly
at Betty, puzzled. He does not notice Waverly, who watches
him watching Betty.
SLOW DISSOLVE TO:
LONG SHOT - RAILROAD STATION - DAY
Train about to leave. The General is in the foreground
sitting in the buggy. Betty is saying goodbye to him.
Bob and the porter are taking care of her luggage.
GENERAL
(Shouting over noise
of train)
Where are you going to be?
BETTY
The Carousel.
The General looks at her, questioningly.
BETTY
(Whispering, during a
lull in the noise)
I sent them a telegram this morning.
The General smiles; Betty waves a farewell to him and crosses
to the train, starting up the steps. The notion behind this
scene is to be able to hear only intermittent dialogue due
to the whistle, bells, and escaping steam. The manner of
playing, though, indicates the sentiment. To emphasize it:
Bob is fonder of Betty than he realizes, and Betty fully
realizes how fond she is of him but that he does not return,
consciously, her affection. We hear Betty:
BETTY
Take care of my little sister.
BOB
She can take care of herself. Worry
about the menfolk. Now don't forget
to write.
BETTY
I'll send you picture postcards.
Not all of this is heard, since the sound effects pick their
spots, but the attention is on the General, who is watching
the scene with a whimsical look. He, as does the audience,
realizes Bob's true feelings. As the train starts to leave,
Betty and Bob shake hands. She holds his handshake a little
longer than necessary, and Bob is forced to move along with
the train. Finally she releases him, and Bob looks after
the train, puzzled.
REVERSE ANGLE
THE CAMERA is now on the train platform, Bob out of sight.
Betty wipes away a tear. In the background we see the General
in the buggy noticing this.
MED. LONG SHOT - TRAIN IN DISTANCE
Bob is in the foreground, the General in the background.
Bob joins the General at the buggy. From Waverly's expression
we can see that he has decided on a plan of action.
WAVERLY
Must be interesting to be a woman.
BOB
The idea's never occurred to me,
sir.
WAVERLY
Well, think about it.
(Bob is thinking about
it)
Well?
BOB
Not interested!
WAVERLY
A man like you must be an expert on
women.
BOB
It's a little immodest to say so,
but I consider myself an authority
on the fair sex, I've made a study
of the subject. They're simple
creatures.
WAVERLY
They couldn't fool you?
BOB
I'm single.
WAVERLY
'Pride goeth before a fall.'
BOB
'Who knows his own strength is twice
armed.'
WAVERLY
It's always a pleasure to meet an
expert in any field. Tell me, why
do you think Betty went to New York?
BOB
(Not willing to admit
it)
She has a job in The Carousel.
WAVERLY
Expert, you're wrong! She went to
New York because she's so in love
with someone here she just couldn't
stand it.
BOB
Phil.
(A mixture of
resentment and
frustration)
I'm darned if I can figure out why.
WAVERLY
I thought you were an expert on women.
(To the horse)
Come on, Delilah!
DISSOLVE TO:
CLOSE SHOT - CHRISTMAS TREE ANGEL - DAY
THE CAMERA PANS DOWN from the ceiling and we see that THE
INN is being decorated for Christmas Eve.
Everybody is so engaged, except those actively helping Phil
and Judy rehearse. The attitude is slightly cool on Judy's
part, but it is lover's coolness.
PHIL
(Fitting the action)
Good, Judy.
(During the dancing)
Now the same as the middle part.
They make a nice couple, with his arm around her waist,
dancing as one.
REVERSE ANGLE - BOB
He enters the room, and watches. He looks intently at Phil.
Phil and Judy dance closer to Bob. They see him. They continue
dancing, talking as they do.
PHIL
Betty get off all right?
BOB
(Slightly belligerent)
Certainly.
JUDY
Betty left something for you. She
said to give it to you after she
left. It's on the piano.
Bob hears, nods, but keeps staring at Phil. Phil becomes
conscious of the staring.
PHIL
What's the matter?
BOB
I don't get it.
PHIL
Don't get what?
BOB
I just don't see it. You' re skinny,
you got a big nose, and you squint.
PHIL
Who? Me?
BOB
Yes, you! Nothing personal though.
PHIL
No, of course not.
BOB
I'm just trying to figure out what
anyone sees in you.
PHIL
Well, stop worrying about it. When
I ask you for a date just turn me
down. Come on, Judy.
They dance away. Bob crosses to the piano and picks up the
package Betty left for him. He opens it up and it is a single
knitted sock, the one she knitted on previously. He looks
through the box for its mate.
There is none. The CAMERA MOVES CLOSER to Bob, puzzled.
DISSOLVE TO:
CLOSE SHOT - BLACKBOARD - (DAY)
Painted at the top is the legend:
WEATHER FORECAST
At the moment a hand is completing, in chalk:
"No Snow" After a moment, the hand returns and draws two
lines through the "S" so that it now reads, "No $now". CAMERA
PULLS BACK to reveal we are on:
EXT. PINE TREE POST OFFICE - FULL SHOT
Bob comes out of the Post Office and mounts a bicycle.
He cycles down the street, whistling A MAN CHASES A GIRL.
DISSOLVE TO:
SECTION OF VILLAGE - HORSESHOE PITCHING GROUNDS - MED. SHOT -
(DAY)
There is a group of elderly men, among them the hotel owners,
pitching horseshoes. Waverly is sitting on a bench, ruefully
looking at the sign.
FIRST HOTEL OWNER
(Starting a new game)
How about it, Waverly, want to play?
WAVERLY
(Looking at him a
moment)
I'm too young for that sort of thing.
First Owner laughs goodnaturedly and continues playing.
Bob rides into the scene and dismounts.
MED. SHOT - BOB AND WAVERLY
Bob sits into the shot.
WAVERLY
Kind of warm for that kind of
exercise, isn't it?
BOB
(Trying to help)
It isn't very warm.
(He looks to the sky)
I think the weatherman's wrong about
his forecast. Those look like snow
clouds to me.
WAVERLY
(Without looking up)
They're cumulus clouds, at an
elevation of seven thousand feet.
BOB
Yes, sir.
(Still trying)
Still, weather's a funny thing.
It could snow - overnight.
WAVERLY
(He thinks a moment)
I'll tell you something I haven't
told my family. I'm going back in
the Army.
BOB
Really, sir? That's great news!
WAVERLY
Yes. I miss the Army.
BOB
Where are you going to be sent, sir?
WAVERLY
Well, I'm not sure yet. I've always
been a combat officer, but I got an
idea they're going to try and palm
off one of the training commands on
me. They'd better not. They just
better not.
(He's worked up now)
I'm not ready for pitching horseshoes
yet.
(He smiles)
Now nothing to the women folk about
this!
BOB
No, sir.
WAVERLY
Let's mosey over to the post office,
I'm expecting a letter any day.
BOB
(Remembering)
Oh, I beg your pardon, sir.
(He pulls the letter
out of his pocket)
That's what I came over to give you,
it slipped my mind.
The General takes the letter, he looks at it front and back.
WAVERLY
(Solemn)
This is the one.
(He opens it, He
squints. He looks
to Bob)
My glasses are in my room. I'd like
to read it by myself, but I'm a little
anxious.
(He smiles at his own
predicament)
Read it, son. Slowly.
BOB
(Reading)
Dear Tom: Why, you dirty, old -
(He stops)
WAVERLY
(Pleased)
Skip that word.
BOB
Yes, sir.
(Continuing)
It certainly was a surprise hearing
from you. Your amusing letter was
appreciated more than you imagine.
Of course you've got plenty of time
to be amusing, sitting on that porch,
rocking away, while we put in a full
day's work. You always were a lucky
stiff, and I envy you. A few years
more, I was saying to Emmy the other
evening, and I'm going to be able to
take it easy like old Tom.
WAVERLY
(Just repeats)
Old Tom.
BOB
Oh, well, some people have all the
luck. Everyone in the family is
fine here. Carol had the mumps,
which is no joke at eleven years of
age -
WAVERLY
The rest of the letter is about the
family.
(Bob looks at him,
and then glances at
the rest to see if
it is so)
He's telling me they have nothing
for me, we're not fooling each other.
(He holds has hand
out)
Thank you.
(Bob gives him his
letter. There is a
pause. An attempt
at being light)
Say, it couldn't be hard to learn to
pitch horseshoes. Now could it?
BOB
(Trapped, unhappy for
him)
No sir.
(His nerve up)
Begging your pardon, sir, there's a
lot to be said for leisure. You're
not used to it, you've always been
active, but in time -
He stops, seeing Waverly's expression. Waverly winks at
him.
WAVERLY
(Quietly)
Never kid a kidder. Go on back to
the hotel.
BOB
Yes sir.
Waverly gets up to join the horseshoe players after all.
Bob watches this reflectively as we
FADE OUT
FADE IN:
MED. SHOT - (DAY) - INT. HOTEL ROOM - BOB AND PHIL
Bob is packing his valise, Phil helping him.
PHIL
Judy thinks my eyes are soulful. Do
you think my eyes are soulful?
BOB
One of them is.
PHIL
You have no poetry in you. It's
about time you went in for girls,
too. After all, you haven't many
years left for that sort of thing.
Bob, his back turned to Phil, comes across the sock Betty
knitted for him; he hastily shoves it into the bottom of has
bag.
BOB
(Over above)
I'm the quiet type. Little do you
know what's aged me.
PHIL
Wheels within wheels, eh? Well,
live it up, Pops. Eat, drink and be
merry -- is that why you're leaving
for New York?
BOB
I told you what I'm seein' Ed Harrison
about. That's all.
PHIL
Business, business. Glad to be rid
of you. You're not in the girly
mood.
BOB
(Easily annoyed at
the moment)
What do you know about girls? You
wouldn't know what to do with a girl
if she fell on you!
PHIL
Well, I'd know enough not to get up.
There is a KNOCK at the door and Martha sticks her head in.
MARTHA
Mr. Wallace -- gonna miss your train!
PHIL
(To Bob)
For her I'd get up.
As Bob slams his suitcase shut,
DISSOLVE TO:
114A.
EXT. CAROUSEL CLUB - MED. CLOSE - (DAY)
A poster outside advertises the appearance of Betty Stewart.
MUSIC is heard emanating from the club.
DISSOLVE THROUGH TO:
INT. CAROUSEL CLUB - MED. SHOT - (DAY)
A rehearsal is in progress in the deserted club. The chairs
are up on the tables, musicians in their shirt sleeves, as
Betty SINGS a chorus of LOVE, YOU DIDN'T DO RIGHT BY ME. As
she finishes, the orchestra LEADER turns to her.
LEADER
Betty - You really live that number.
BETTY
The story of my life.
LEADER
Shall we try it over again?
BETTY
(Meaningly)
I wish I could.
DISSOLVE TO:
INT. CAROUSEL CLUB - MED. SHOT - (NIGHT)
It is alive with customers; couples are dancing on the floor,
as a number ends. Bob enters, and is conducted to a ringside
table by a maitre d'.
BOB
I'm expecting Ed Harrison.
MAITRE D'
Very well, Mr. Wallace.
116A.
STAGE - MED. CLOSE
Betty is standing at the microphone ready to sing.
She sees Bob. The Leader raises his baton.
BETTY
(Stopping him, sotto)
Let's not do the new number.
LEADER
What?
BETTY
Play "Blue Skies" -- anything.
LEADER
Relax. Just do it the way you sang
it this afternoon -- you'll be great.
He gives the downbeat, and Betty has no choice but to sing
LOVE, YOU DIDN'T DO RIGHT BY ME. She is assisted in the
second chorus by a vocal group.
CLUB - MED. SHOT
as Bob watches her. When she finishes the number, Betty
steps down from the platform and joins Bob.
BETTY
(As Bob holds the
chair)
Well, surprise. What brought you to
the big city? And don't say 'a
train.'
(Forced gaiety, hiding
her tension)
BOB
I never heard you sing that well.
That's a good number for you.
BETTY
(Her own significance)
Some numbers suit you better than
others. What are you doing here?
BOB
Business, business. Meeting a fellow
here.
BETTY
Judy all right?
BOB
She's fine. Couldn't be better.
(Carefully)
Playing footsie with Phil.
BETTY
That's nice.
BOB
I think they like each other.
BETTY
I do, too.
BOB
(Eyeing her)
They're kind of suited, in a lot of
ways.
BETTY
Some people are.
BOB
Thanks for the knitted sock.
BETTY
Don't mention it.
BOB
I thought it was for Phil.
BETTY
(Evenly)
If the sock fits, wear it.
BOB
(Unsure of her meaning)
It started out for Phil.
BETTY
It just started out as a sock.
Every line of the sock exchange should have the meaning of
the love implications.
BOB
You're a very odd girl.
BETTY
You're a very odd fellow.
Bob is close to declaring himself, if he was only sure of
his ground.
BOB
Two feet, one sock. I must be.
BETTY
I'll get around to the other one,
eventually.
BOB
You mean to do any knitting in the
near future?
BETTY
The feeling comes and goes.
BOB
Think if the model hung around for a
while... the feeling might be more
permanent?
BETTY
Maybe.
Bob leans over and takes her hand.
BOB
What's this maybe, shmaybe, comes
and goes? Friends tell me I don't
have many years left for this sort
of thing... I ought to know right
now if --
He is interrupted by ED HARRISON, who has been brought to
the table by the maitre d'.
ED
Bob! How are you?
BOB
Hiya, Ed.
ED
(He knows Betty)
Betty.
She nods, as Ed sits down.
ED
(To Bob)
Now what's this big deal you wanted
to discuss? I shouldn't even talk
to you after canceling out on my
show.
BOB
(Carefully)
Ed, I saw the old man.
ED
Waverly? Where, in the Pentagon?
BOB
Pentagon, nothing. He owns a little
hotel in a winter resort in Vermont.
ED
Our old man?
BOB
Nobody even knows who he is.
BETTY
He's too proud to let them know he's
General Waverly.
Ed looks at her, surprised.
ED
(To Bob, indicating
Betty)
Was she in our outfit, too?
BOB
Vermont branch.
ED
What are we going to do about it?
You got a flash?
BOB
A glimmer.
ED
Got to stir it around a little?
BOB
All stirred. Remember how Old
Flintbottom always used to find a
way to keep our morale up... without
telling us? It's about time we
returned the favor. Let's surprise
him with a real big bang-up reunion.
ED
Now you're talking! How do we spread
the word?
Bob takes a piece of paper out of his inside pocket and hands
it to Ed.
BOB
You're gonna read this little speech
on your television show. People
look at it, don't they?
ED
(Scanning the paper)
Now's as good a time as any to find
out.
As he continues to read the piece of paper, we
DISSOLVE TO:
MED. CLOSE SHOT - INT. COLUMBIA INN LOBBY - PHIL IN PHONE
BOOTH - (NIGHT)
Phil is excited.
PHIL
Bob, just leave it to me! He won't
get near a set if I have to break a
leg... Goodbye, Bob!
He opens the door of the booth and hurries across the lobby
toward Susan, who is at the desk, and BANGS on the bell,
which is on the counter. Martha comes running from the
kitchen.
PHIL
(Excitedly)
Now everybody pay close attention.
DISSOLVE TO:
MED. CLOSE SHOT - INT. TELEVISION STATION - (NIGHT)
Ed is about to go on the air. Bob is opposite him, out of
camera range, The technical crew are watching the hand of
the dial approaching 60.
ED
I hope Phil has been able to keep
the old man away from a television
set.
BOB
He has. In anything involving
something crooked he's dependable.
MED. CLOSE SHOT - INT. LOBBY COLUMBIA INN
Seated around the television set are Waverly, Martha and
Susan. Martha and Susan look at their watches and each other,
nervously. Waverly also looks at his watch.
WAVERLY
Ed Harrison will be on in a half
minute. I like him. I never miss
him.
The women are becoming very nervous. Suddenly we HEAR off
scene the most tremendous clatter dorm the stairway and Phil's
shouting.
PHIL
Ow! Ow! Ow!
WAVERLY
(Jumping up)
What's that?
He runs toward the stairs. Martha and Susan breathe a sigh
of relief and follow Waverly.
MED. CLOSE SHOT - STAIRS
Waverly runs to the tangled Phil.
PHIL
My leg is broken! Ow, ow!
WAVERLY
Take it easy, boy.
(He starts feeling
his leg)
PHIL
Ow! Ow! It's broken!
WAVERLY
No it isn't! You may have a bad
sprain, but no bones are busted!
PHIL
It's broken, sir. I can feel it.
WAVERLY
Let me help you.
MED. CLOSE SHOT - INT. TELEVISION STATION
The technician indicates for Ed Harrison to start as the
second hand hits straight up.
ED
I would like to address all former
officers, enlisted men, Wacs and
nurses who were under the command of
General Tom Waverly --
MED. SHOT - INT. COLUMBIA INN OUTSIDE WAVERLY'S OFFICE
Waverly and Martha are helping Phil through the door.
PHIL
Ow! Ow! It's broken in two or three
places!
WAVERLY
That's just the impression you have!
I tell you it's only shock!
THE CAMERA FOLLOWS THEM into the office as they lay him out
on the couch.
WAVERLY
(Laying him out)
Take it easy, boy!
PHIL
Don't leave me! Everything is going
round and round!
WAVERLY
Nobody's leaving you! Martha, get
me a cold towel!
MED. CLOSE SHOT - INT. TELEVISION STATION
ED
The objective is Pine Tree, Vermont ---
Synchronize watches for Operation
Waverly...
MED. SHOT - INT. OFFICE
Phil has his eyes closed.
WAVERLY
Things still going around?
PHIL
Now they're going sideways!
Waverly takes the wet towel from Martha.
PHIL
Now they're going in and out!
Waverly slaps the towel on his face.
WAVERLY
This'll bring him out of it.
PHIL
(Sitting up)
Where am I?
WAVERLY
He's all right.
Judy bursts into the room.
JUDY
Phil, what's happened to you?
Phil assumes a pain-stricken face again and Judy throws her
arms around him. Phil smiles over her shoulder at Waverly.
DISSOLVE TO:
FULL SHOT - NIGHT - COUNTRY ROAD
Silhouette of busses, Station in background, if desirable.
MED. FULL SHOT - FORK IN ROAD
Two men, with M.P. armbands, slow up the busses. One is
revealed to be Phil.
FIRST M.P.
All quiet, folks! Entering the town!
PHIL
The Old Man's asleep! Let's keep
him that way!
The busses move on.
DISSOLVE TO:
MED. SHOT - NIGHT - INT. LOBBY
Bob and Betty tiptoe through the entrance to the inn. In
the semidarkness of the lobby we hear a "sst - ", and Susan
and Martha are revealed having been waiting for them.
MARTHA
We've been waiting for you.
BOB
How is everything going?
SUSAN
Just fine.
BETTY
They are bedded down in all the
hotels.
Martha blows her nose.
MARTHA
His old outfit... If I wasn't such a
mean old biddy, I'd probably break
right down and cry.
(She cries)
BOB
There's nothing to cry about, is
there?
He looks to Susan and she begins to bawl.
SUSAN
(Through the crying)
Thank you so much.
Bob looks to Betty for support.
BOB
Can't you do something?
BETTY
They're just affected by the gesture.
She can't hold it back either, and now the three women are
crying.
BOB
That's fine.
BETTY
(Through her tears)
Where are Judy and Phil?
BOB
Probably in their rooms, crying.
They start out.
DISSOLVE TO:
MED. SHOT - EXT. BUNGALOW - NIGHT
As Bob and Betty turn around the corner, they see Phil and
Judy, locked in an embrace. Bob has been in front, but he
steps back quickly, not wanting to embarrass the lovers.
BETTY
Who is it? General Waverly?
BOB
The lovers.
BETTY
(To Bob)
We can't just stand here. We have
to get some sleep.
She walks into sight, Bob following. Phil and Judy break,
embarrassed.
JUDY
We were rehearsing for the show
tomorrow night.
BETTY
Is it going to be that kind of a
show? We'll be raided!
JUDY
What are you doing here? What
happened at The Carousel?
BETTY
I'm helping out here tomorrow.
PHIL
Hi, Bob. Everything's under control.
(Fluster)
I mean with the show. We've got a
lot of new material. You both are
going to have to do a lot of
rehearsing.
(Flustered again)
I mean the other kind of rehearsing -
I mean - rehearsing Well, good night,
Judy.
And he holds his hand out, and they shake hands, still
flustered.
JUDY
Good night, Phil. Good night, Bob.
BETTY
(To both)
Good night.
Flustered, the boys open the door to the girls' bungalow,
thinking it is their own.
PHIL
Let's get out of here before the
gossip starts.
They all laugh. The girls enter their bungalow and put on
the light. The boys head toward their bungalow. Phil enters
in a gay mood. Bob stops at the door, turns around and looks
toward the window of the girls' bungalow.
DISSOLVE TO:
MED. SHOT - INT. GIRLS' BUNGALOW - NIGHT
Judy is getting into bed. Betty, in her dressing gown, is
looking out of the window toward the boys' bungalow.
BETTY
Bob is still pacing up and down on
the porch... I think I'll go out and
see what's bothering him.
JUDY
That's how I started in Canton, Ohio.
BETTY
This is Vermont. Nothing can happen
here.
JUDY
Keep your guard up... That ain't
Coolidge out on that porch.
Betty throws her a look, and exits.
EXT. BOYS' BUNGALOW - MED SHOT
Bob stands on the porch, in robe and slippers, thoughtfully
puffing at his pipe. Betty comes into scene.
BETTY
What are you doing? Sleep walking?
BOB
(Turning)
Couldn't sleep.
Betty comes up on the porch.
BETTY
Whatever you've got on your mind
isn't worth staying awake for.
BOB
Where have I heard that?
BETTY
Tell you how I handle a situation
like this, Doctor.
She starts to sing, COUNT YOUR BLESSINGS. At the conclusion,
she walks away, leaving him standing there.
FADE OUT
FADE IN:
CLOSE SHOT - ARCHED SIGN IN FRONT OF INN - (NIGHT)
This sign announces the show opening. People are streaming
into the inn.
MED. SHOT - INT. WAVERLY'S QUARTERS
The General is in his dressing gown, furious. Martha and
Susan are playing a part.
WAVERLY
How could you send all my suits to
the cleaners?
MARTHA
You've only got two.
SUSAN
Why can't you wear your uniform?
WAVERLY
I won't appear in uniform!
SUSAN
Please, Gramp.
WAVERLY
Absolutely not!
MARTHA
Very well. I'll explain to Bob and
Phil that you didn't care to come to
the show tonight.
WAVERLY
I'll have you court-martialed!
MARTHA
You don't mind being ungrateful, you
just don't like being told you are!
SUSAN
(Follows it up)
If you think you don't owe them
anything, you're not obliged to go.
MARTHA
They haven't done much for you.
Hardly anything. You do what you
think is right!
WAVERLY
(Angrily)
Martha, I'll make my own decisions!
I got along very well in the army
without you!
MARTHA
It took 15,000 men to take my place!
She stalks out.
DISSOLVE TO:
FULL SHOT - INN FLOOR - (NIGHT)
It is slowly filling up. One of the guiding officials turns
out to be the Sheriff we have previously seen.
PETE
(Seating a party)
Right this way.
MED. SHOT - INT. MAKESHIFT DRESSING ROOM - BOB AND PHIL
They are getting into their old uniforms, which are slightly
misfit.
BOB
(At the trousers)
This thing's shrunk.
PHIL
(Looking at the bulge)
Pants always shrink in closets.
BOB
I can't breathe in this. What am I
going to do?
PHIL
I know what I'm going to do.
(Showing him)
I'm going to take one big deep breath,
and that's going to be it for the
next three hours.
Bob takes a deep breath and gets the top button buttoned.
MED. SHOT - LOBBY STAIRWAY - (NIGHT)
General Waverly comes down the stairs, cutting quite a figure
in his uniform and decorations. Martha and Susan, waiting
for him at the bottom, look him over, admiringly.
WAVERLY
(Gruffly)
Well, I couldn't come down in my
bathrobe.
FULL SHOT - INN FLOOR
The spotlight prepared, pinpoints the General as he enters
the room, and the music starts. The audience rises and
applauds. He can't believe it. He reaches his table,
decorated with flowers, and recognizes he is the guest of
honor. From the lobby we hear the outfit SINGING the opening
strains of THE OLD MAN.
All eyes turn to the lobby entrance, through which the old
outfit marches, and continues to the stage, and then back to
their respective tables as the song finishes.
MED. SHOT - WAVERLY
He is profoundly moved and walks to the stage. The audience
is seated. Waverly looks at the assembled crowd with great
affection. The people begin to shout, "Speech! Speech!"
Martha and Susan sit.
The crowd quiets, waiting for the speech.
WAVERLY
(He must have had a
blood transfusion
from a sergeant at
some time)
I am not satisfied with the conduct
of this division! Some of you men
are under the impression that having
been at Anzio entitles you not to
wear neckties! You are wrong!
Neckties will be worn in this area!
I have also noticed a deterioration
in the quality of saluting! This is
to be improved! I have also had
complaints from the commanding officer
of the rest area in Naples! He
informs me that the non-fraternization
rule is constantly being broken by
men of this division! In fact, this
division is outstanding in its
violations of non-fraternization!
You all know the rules! The non-
fraternization ban expressly declares
you are not to talk to women!
(A slightly different
tone)
Don't talk to them! That is all!
They howl and cheer. He makes has way toward his own table,
greeting old friends on the way.
MED. CLOSE SHOT - BOB AND PHIL
As they step to the front of the stage.
BOB
(To the audience)
Doesn't that bring back memories?
Remember those terrible, trying days
in Italy... when we had to beat the
women off with chocolate bars?
PHIL
And wasn't it awful the way they
kept bothering us for American
cigarettes? Why, I must have taught
fifty girls how to smoke...
BOB
For a month's pay all we got was 950
million lira...
PHIL
Nine hundred and fifty two...
BOB
I was forced to hire a caddy for my
loose change.
PHIL
Fore...!
BOB
I'm glad I'm well out of it.
Phil looks at him.
PHIL
Who are we kidding?
This is the cue for the orchestra to start the production
number, I WISH I WAS BACK IN THE ARMY. At end of number -
AUDIENCE - FULL SHOT
As they applaud and cheer. The old outfit is happy.
In the exultation, General Waverly places two fingers to his
lips and blows a whistle of sheer pleasure and approval. We
underscore with MUSIC indicating another number is taking
place on stage, although we do not see it.
SECTION OF AUDIENCE - MED. CLOSE
Ed Harrison crosses to General Waverly and whispers to him.
ED HARRISON
Long distance call for you, sir.
Waverly looks surprised, but rises and starts out.
Bob, visible in b.g., has been watching. He and Harrison
exchange knowing glances.
AT HOTEL DESK - MED. SHOT
The lobby is empty; in b.g. are the doors to the dining
room, where the show is in progress. The telephone lies on
the counter. Waverly enters and crosses to it. He is a
little annoyed at being forced to leave the entertainment.
WAVERLY
(Into phone, gruffly)
Hurry up, hurry up, I'm busy.
Yes, this is General Waverly.
He suddenly snaps to attention, the old soldier.
WAVERLY
(Quietly)
And a Merry Christmas to you, Mr.
President... Yes, practically the
whole outfit is here. A little
paunchy, but they're here. It
certainly was a surprise -- more
like a frameup. As usual, my
Intelligence was not functioning
efficiently... Yes?
(Long pause)
That's very nice of you, Mr.
President... any time you want me,
just say the word... but may I add
this? It isn't always necessary to
take a job... sometimes it's enough
just to know it's there.
Through the window behind the General we have seen it begin
to SNOW. The General notices it for the first time, and his
face brightens.
WAVERLY
If you ever take it into your mind
to grab a little rest from all that
work I wish you'd drop in on us here --
I can't promise you any golf but --
(As he looks at the
falling snow)
-- we can certainly give you plenty
of snow, Mr, President... Yes, Mr.
President... What?
(Smiles)
Thanks, Ike.
He hangs up the phone, and proudly, head erect, he walks
through the lobby, smiling, eyes wet. He lifts the bell on
the desk with a loud bang. Martha hurries in, startled.
MARTHA
You frightened me to death! That
bell hasn't been used for three
months!
GENERAL
Get this area policed up. No telling
who might be dropping in.
Martha salutes.
MARTHA
Yes, sir!
She and the General gaze at the snow falling beyond the lobby
door which is blown open by the wind.
Underneath all this we have been hearing the introductory
music to WHITE CHRISTMAS, which is the number now in progress
on the stage. Waverly now turns and walks into the dining
room.
INT. DINING ROOM - MOVING CAMERA
CAMERA FOLLOWS Waverly on his entrance. As he passes Susan,
we see she is reacting to something on the stage.
CAMERA PASSES Waverly and moves to:
STAGE - FULL SHOT - MOVING CAMERA
Center stage, there is a large cutout of a decorated Christmas
tree. Also, there is considerable Christmas holly, mistletoe,
etc. Bob and Betty are seen singing. Throughout action of
this number Phil and Judy dance. In addition there is staged
movement by the ensemble. Bob and Betty are on each side of
the cutout Christmas tree, but it is obvious that Betty is
preoccupied with some stage business which she is manipulating
with one hand behind the cutout tree.
CAMERA FOLLOWS Bob and Betty as their movement takes them
behind the tree. It is now that we see very clearly that
the rear wall of the stage (two immense barn doors) has
opened; in b.g. we see the Vermont countryside being covered
by the falling snow. Also, we see pine trees in the snow
that are decorated.
Betty steers Bob to a point directly beneath a sprig of
mistletoe from which is also hanging the mate to the sock
she gave him in scene 110. Bob looks up, sees the mistletoe
and the sock, and smiles at Betty.
She lifts one of his trouser legs and we see that he is
wearing the other sock. They laugh and embrace.
REVERSE SHOT - FROM DINING ROOM
The cutout tree onstage rises to the flies and now the real
trees and falling snow in b.g. are completely visible. One
by one, the trees are lighted.
AUDIENCE - MED. CLOSE
Martha and Susan are standing happily beside the General,
each holding one of his arms.
EXT. VERMONT TOWN - EXTREME HIGH SHOT - (MINIATURE)
A church bell is framed in the foreground, and, far in the
distance, we see the town and the Inn and the snow as we
FADE OUT
THE END
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