Key, The (1958)

[bunniefuu]

Say, can you tell me where
Commander Wadlow's office is?

Has, uh...
Has America come into the w*r?

I don't know.

- All I asked was...
- Yeah, yeah,

I heard you, Captain.

Just over there.

Thanks.

You going to drive
a tug for us, Captain?

- Yes, sir.
- Commander Wadlow?

- In there, sir.
- Thank you.

Yes?

Ross.

Oh, yes, of course, Commander Ross.
We've been expecting you.

My name's Wadlow.

You couldn't have come
at a better time.

You know the type of thing
we do here, of course.

Not exactly.

Oh, I'm sorry.
But as you volunteered
I should have thought...

I didn't exactly volunteer.

I'm a sergeant
in the Canadian Army.

All I know is
they gave me this uniform

and told me
to report here today.

I see.

But you have commanded
ocean-going tugs?

Not for 10 years.

I think that's why
they picked me.

No doubt.

No doubt.

Well, you might call
this enterprise the Red Cross
of the ocean.

You're in
the rescue business now.

If some lonely, unhappy
cargo ship gets torpedoed

or can't keep up
with its convoy,

you pop out
onto the briny deep
and bring your lame duck in.

And everybody aboard
is ever so grateful.

That's all
there is to it, really.

Sounds simple.

Now I know why they picked me.

We're getting so much business
from the States these days

that we have two full crews
and two captains for each tug

and you relieve each other,
do you see?

Your ship's the W 88.

Actually, she's in dry-dock
for repairs at the moment,

so you can take it easy
for the next few days.

I see.

I'm here.

Let's have the vulgar details
and I'll run along.

Oh, excuse me, will you?

Nice of you to drop by, Captain.

You've got a Dane with a cargo
of high expl*sives

and a torpedo
in Number One hold.

Sounds dull, besides it'll take
eight days there and back.

I don't think I'll go this time.

- You!
- I think so.

Amigo!

Hey, just a moment,
just a moment!

What exactly are you
doing here anyway?

Don't tell me
you've taken Walter's place.

- Well, I don't know. I...
- Oh, no, no,

you can't do that to him.
He's a nice man.

Don't tell me you've fallen
for that nonsense about
the Red Cross of the ocean?

Just what are you
doing here anyway?

- Now, you'll never believe...
- Couldn't wait for America
to come in, eh?

You're an idiot.

Get out of it, man,
get out of it!

I'm sure your lame duck
must be getting
impatient by now.

And we don't want
all that nice imported
gunpowder getting damp, do we?

- Goodbye, Captain Ford.
- I'm going.

- Good.
- I'm going.

Look, what about
going out right now
with Captain Ford?

Actually, if you watch
him closely and then do
exactly the opposite,

- you'll have it all down pat.
- Ha-ha!

Yes, David, you come with me,
and after you've seen
what it's like,

you can come back here
and tell him
to take his job and...

Sir, SOS from W 40.

- Where?
- I don't know, sir.

- She broke off.
- Well, call her.

Who's on her?

Raymond.

Get me Air-Sea rescue.

Yes, do. Just another day
in the Red Cross of the ocean.

Come on, idiot.

Hello.

Yes, one of our tugs
I'm afraid, W 40.

It's last known position
was 50 north, 30 west.

What would you say hit that tug?

Dive b*mber, U-boat, who knows?

U-boat most likely.

- Do you run into many?
- Oh, yes.

Not the ones
who lay the ducks low,

they usually keep going
after the convoy.

But Jerry's got
a lot of mine-laying subs
in the neighborhood.

Once they smell blood,
they come after us
like vultures.

They call this U-boat alley,
my boy.

But once we reach the duck,
we'll be all right,
'cause she's got g*ns.

She's got g*ns?

Don't we have g*ns?

Just what sort of a navy
do you think we've got here?

- What's the story?
- We've got a Danska with
a cigar in Number One hold

and a load of high expl*sives.

- That's nice.
- Oh, this is Captain Ross.

He's taking over W 88.
My mate.

We've met.

Square up that tow rope!

Aye-aye, sir!

All coming back to you
in dribs and drabs?

Like I'd never been away.

- Clear that filthy deck!
- Aye-aye, sir.

What is that?

You asked about g*ns.

Now don't go too near her,
she's on a hair trigger.

Yes, but what is it?

This is our g*n.

But they're not all like this?

This is a single-barrel
Pom-Pom, 1926.

'26 was a vintage year
for Pom-Poms.

Don't worry, chum.

The ducks are all armed now
and their stuff's
heavier than the U-boats.

Jerry won't surface anywhere
within the ducks' range.

So once we reach her,
we're as houses.

Yes, I've seen
some of your houses.

Nice pigsty you've got here.

Thank you.

All ready when you are, Skipper.

- Everyone here?
- All but Ibetson.

Well, this time
he's really in trouble.

- All right, get going.
- Right, sir.

Is the... The gentleman
staying aboard, sir?

I think so.

- All right
- KANE: Let's go for it.

- What's the matter with him?
- Half ahead.

Oh, don't take any notice.
He's just tired.

Port a little!

Port a little, sir.

Chris, have you ever had
a duck blow up on you

-while you were
coming alongside it?
-No,

but we do lose a few tugs
that way from time to time.

Thanks for asking me along.

Watch your step here.
I don't want to have to put
a boat over the side for you.

All right, lads, couple up.

Signal, sir.

Message from the duck?

Not likely!
That's the one thing
they mustn't do,

break radio silence.

That's the most important item
in envelope D.

Envelope D is the sealed
instructions they get
when they leave harbor.

What to do
when unable to keep up
with your convoy.

Such as?

The skipper flashes
a code signal
to his group leader,

puts out his fires
if he has any,

keeps radio silence
so as not to give
the position away,

and just tries to be patient
until we come and get him.

That's about it.

What happens
if we get torpedoed, too?

Oh, no.
We never get torpedoed.

Jerry's not going to waste
any torpedoes on us.

We're too small.

Besides, their
mine-laying subs
don't carry torpedoes.

Why didn't you tell me that
in the first place?

Because they've got
a deck g*n that's big enough

to blow us clean
out of the water.

Any other questions?

You all right?

- Yes, sure.
- You've been away a long time.

If you don't feel well,
why don't you go and lie down?

Don't be embarrassed, old boy.

I'm all right.

Getting a bit cramped up here.
I think I'll go
and stretch my legs.

Thanks.

Give it to the skipper.

I'm sorry. Take mine.

No, no. Never mind.

Junkers diving fast!

Action stations!

Fire!

It won't be long now.

Here! Get used to it.

She's got herself
a very nice fire.

Think she can last?

Who knows?

But we'll be inside her range
in a mile or two.

I just hope her g*ns
haven't been damaged.

Starboard 20!

Twenty starboard, sir!

Well, it's his turn to run now.

I'd like to get one, just once.

Now all we've got to do
is to bring that mess in.

Steady on, now.

Line-g*n ready.

- Get the line-g*n ready.
- Line-g*n ready, sir.

Don't fire until I tell you.

Aye-aye, sir.

Fire.

Quick as you can
with connecting up.

I prefer to connect
to your anchor cable.

When I've connected up
the main throw...

Watch the lines from your wires!

Smoke, Kane?

No, thanks.

Well, home and dry.

This time, anyway.

My knees are like jelly.

What's the matter?

It always hits me like this
after it's over.

Right now my stomach's doing
a Morris dance.

If I get home before I'm sick,
I'll be all right.

How do you feel?

Fine.

Big man, eh? You wait.

Come on, let's have some coffee.

Don't thank me, Commander.
It's all in a day's work.

What did you think of it all,
Commander Ross?

- Very interesting.
- Good.

Then you'll be glad
to hear your ship's
out of dry-dock now.

Perhaps you'll go along
and see her tomorrow
and meet your opposite number,

- Captain Van Dam.
- Sure.

Aren't you the least
little bit ashamed?

Just a moment, gentlemen,

you've forgotten
your little pink pills.

Oh, here.

Get yourself
a good night's sleep.

- I don't use them.
- You will.

Meanwhile you can sell them
anywhere in town.

That reminds me, Commander.

We've got you billeted
at the Grand Hotel.

Oh, come now.
Not the Black Hole
of Calcutta.

That's no way to treat an ally.

Come home and have breakfast
with me anyway.

Where do you live?

I've got an apartment.

Two rooms and a bath.
Best in town.

Naturally.

- Captain Ford?
- Yeah.

I want to thank you
for saving my ship.

Oh, not at all.

Better luck next time.

Look, all you have to do now
is just go in here,

fill yourself one of those
little old reports,
then you can go out

and get as plastered
as you like.

- Thank you.
- Not at all.

Goodbye.

Hello, my fairy godmother!

Oh, it's you, is it?
Well, that's something.

She worries about me,
poor dear,
every time I go out.

I owe her money.

Fill her up, will you?
There's a good girl.

You haven't paid me
for the last lot.

Yes, I know.

And you owe me for last week's
newspapers, too.

Tomorrow. All claims settled
in full tomorrow.

Have you got a cigarette, love?

Yes, love.

Come to think of it,
you're the first guest
I've ever had here.

I'm not surprised.

How did you get
a place like this?

That's not all I've got.
Where are you?

- Oh, Chris!
- Darling!

How did it go?

Easy. A Dane on fire.
He behaved very well.

Have you been all right?

Why didn't you tell me
you were going?

Because you look so pretty
when you sleep.

Oh, this is Stella.

This is my
old American friend,
David Ross.

You've heard of lend-lease.
They meant him.

He's finally arrived.

- Hello.
- Hello.

Tell her how I pulled you
out of the Panama Canal
that time.

No, but I'll tell her
how I pulled you out.

Yes, of course,
after you threw me in,
you swine.

You took advantage
of a drunken man.

Sit down. I'm going to wash,

then you wash, and then
we'll all have

the best baked beans on toast
in the whole
uncivilized world.

Please sit down, Captain.

Thank you.

It's nice here.

Yes.

Are you on tugboats
too, Captain?

Yes.

I haven't started yet really.

As a matter of fact,
I haven't been on one
for 10 years,

until this trip.

You were out with Chris?

Yes.

You will be very good.

Well, I hope so.

Do you know Chris a long time?

I beg your pardon?

Have you known Chris
a long time?

Oh, we used to run into
each other a lot

when the world
was young and g*y.

He's a very nice man.

Yes.

What did he mean when he said
you were lend-lease?

I don't know.

I guess I'm
an over-aged destroyer.

Huh?

I'm afraid I was
in too much of a hurry
when I picked this jacket out.

It's tight under the arms.

Take it off, be comfortable.

No, it's all right.

Let me see.

- Come on, take it off.
- No. No, no really.

Take it off.
I can alter it for you.

I think I can help you.
Come with me.

Here, put this on.

What's going on?

His jacket is too tight.
I am trying to find him
another one.

Does it fit?

Yes.

Don't say it does if it doesn't.

Try the armholes.

- Hmm?
- Yes, it's fine.

Good. Give it to me.

Oh, the toast!

You know, Chris, I...

All right, all right.
I'll tell you about it later.

Go on, take a bath.
You won't care for the tub
at the hotel.

Mmm.

I was just thinking.

You're going to look over
your ship tomorrow,
aren't you?

Well, the very best of luck
with old Van Dam.

- Van Dam?
- Mmm.

Oh, yes, the other skipper.

- What's wrong with him?
- Oh, nothing, nothing.

Don't be silly, Chris.

Van Dam is a very fine man.

Oh, he's a very good boy.

He owns W 88 by the way.

He sneaked her out of Holland
from right under the nose
of the whole German navy,

and he brought her over here
practically single-handed.
No, it's just that...

Well, you'll find out.

You're a very funny man.

Don't worry,
you'll be all right.

The first time is the worst.

I'm all right.

I'm tired, I guess.

Will you take
your sleeping pills now?

No, no pills.
I'm taking David on the town.
We've got to celebrate.

You're going out?

Yes. It's reunion time.

I haven't thrown him
in any canals lately.

All right.

Don't keep him out
too long, please.

He must sleep.

If he doesn't,
he'll go to pieces again
if he has to sail tomorrow.

What do you mean, go to pieces?

I've never gone to pieces.

Don't mix me up
with someone else.

I'm sorry.

All right.
I'll be home early.

I'll get ready.

I won't keep him out too late.

Thank you. He must sleep.

- I finished it.
- Ah.

It looks very nice.

Yes, it feels better
all the way around.

Thank you very much.

Okay?

Yeah, ready.

Goodbye,

and thanks for the meal.
I enjoyed it.

You're welcome.
You must come again.

Thank you.

Chris!

Yes?

Don't drink too much.

No, mother, no.

What do you think of Stella?

Can't hear you.

What do you think of Stella?

- You're lucky.
- Yes, I am.

You're wondering about this,
aren't you?

Whatever you think,
you're wrong.

I wasn't thinking anything.

You listen to me.
Because I want you to know.

I want you to know about Stella.

She was going to marry
a tug driver named Westerby,

Philip Westerby.

I know him, not too well.

Anyway, he got his
the day before the wedding.

A chum of mine,
Hal Van Barger...

That's his jacket
you're wearing, I think.

He heard about the flat going
and he hopped up and got it.

Things were worse then
than they are now.

There were people actually
sleeping in the gutters.

Anyway, she stayed on
with Van Barger.

Don't ask me why, I don't know.

Well, maybe because he was
a tug man too, like Westerby.

Maybe because she could tell
he was just about to crack,

which he was.

Maybe she just didn't have
anywhere else to go
and didn't much care.

I don't know, and I don't care.

Anyway, Van Barger gave me
the key to the flat.

He said if anything
happened to him,
he wanted me to have it.

He said we poor
sinners on the tugs deserved
a few breaks along the way.

We ought to keep the flat
in the family.

I know what you're thinking,
but you're wrong.

I wasn't thinking anything.

- Yes, you were.
- I think it's fine.

How do you know?

How could you?

You don't know what it's like
to have someone like that
waiting for you on shore.

Waiting for you to come home.

What happened to Van Barger?

Oh, he went out
to pick up a Greek.

When he got there, the Greek
wasn't there anymore,

but a U-boat was.

Oh, look at this.

Time to refuel.

You'll be quiet when you go in
to get your suitcase,
won't you?

Okay.

You couldn't just
drop it down to me, could you?

Let's just have one
for the road.

Good job we did get home early.

We might have to go out
again tomorrow.

Idiot.

Here.

Here, take this.

Put it away somewhere
and forget about it.

I don't want it.

- Take it.
- No, no.

When Van Barger gave me a key,

he made me promise
to have another one made,

just as soon as I ever used it,

and to give it to someone
on the tugs.

But I didn't know
who to give it to.
I want you to have it.

And I said I didn't want it.

Here, take it. Keep it.

You have to keep it
because I have to keep
my promise to Van Barger.

Give it to somebody else.

Make me a promise right now
that the moment you use it,

if you ever have to,
that you'll get
another one made,

and you'll give it to someone,
someone on the tugs.

Someone who's all right.
You know,
someone who needs it.

You know what I mean.

And then you make them promise.

Yes, but the w*r
may go on a long time.

You're crazy.
You'll outlive everybody.

Anyway, I don't want it.

You want me
to break your nose? Hmm?

You promise?

I promise.

And then if anything
does happen to me, you'll...

You'll look after Stella,
you'll see that
she's all right?

Nothing is going
to happen to you.

We'll drink to that,

because in my
considered opinion,

none of us is going
to come out of this alive,
including you.

Thanks.

I hope you know what time it is.

We don't want to wake
Stella, do we?

You know something funny, David,

Stella, she's...
She's wonderful,
she's so good to me,

but sometimes I...
Here, hold this.

Sometimes I don't think
she knows which is which,

Philip, Hal Van Barger, me.
It's all mixed up, confused.

Do you know,
she called me Philip once.

I didn't say anything,
you couldn't have told
by my face,

I'm sure. It's just...

It... It's as if we're all
the same man.

And I don't know which one.

I don't which one,
and I don't care.

That's strange, isn't it?

Tell me something.

Why does she wear
that wedding ring?

Yes.

- That's funny.
- Hmm.

Hmm.

What do you think you're doing?

I'm not dead yet, you know.

Sorry.

Huh!

Shh.

See, home early.

Yes.

Stella.

Goodnight.

But you must sleep, darling.

I'm not sleepy.
I want to talk.

I'm a captain, you know.

I say talk, everyone talks.

And I say we talk now.

Sit down, please.

What shall we talk about?

Hmm?

I'd better make you some coffee.

No, no coffee.
I don't want any coffee.

Oh, Stella!
You're very good to me.

I love you.

I wish you'd marry me.

You want to marry me?

Please.

We're full up.

I'm supposed to be
billeted here,
my name is Ross.

Ross.

You'll have to share a room.
We're cramped for space.

I know, it's the same in London.

You're in 77.

Canadian, are you?

I'm American, I think.

This way.

Eh, it's not working.

This way.

You've a nice warm room,
next door to the kitchen.

Good.

And you get a towel
all to yourself.

That's nice.

There you are, Captain.

There's your bed over there,
up on top.

Do I get that all
to myself, too?

k*lled himself last week.

- Who?
- Captain Walters.

The man that had that bed.

He was a tugboat man like you.

Swallowed a whole box
of sleeping pills.

Long sleep, huh?

Nothing else you want?

Yes, I'd like that towel
you were talking about.

Oh, one thing at a time.
I've only got two legs.

Here's your washbasin.

The lavatory's down the hall,
you know what I mean?

Yeah, thanks a lot. Here.

Keep it. I don't need it.

I didn't ask for you.

All I want is peace.

That's good enough for me, too.

And you'll get it, Captain.

You'll get it before you know
what hits you.

Read the casualty lists.

Hey.

Do you mind turning off
the light, Captain?

I'm sorry.

Captain Van Dam?

Yes.

I'm Captain Ross.
I heard the ship was ready,

so I thought I'd come down
and look her over.

Captain Ross. So you've come
to look her over. Good, good.

She's the best ship
on this base,
and she deserves care.

Some people may like to live
in a pigsty, but I do not.

So you will please
be good enough

to tidy up your mess
when you come off duty.

- Yes, of course.
- I'm glad we understand
each other.

Please.

Made any sorties yet?

Sorties?

Oh, yes, I've been out
with Captain Ford.

Did you like it?

Not very much.

Why not?

I'd like it better
if we had some decent g*ns.

g*ns?

Why do you want g*ns?

I don't like the idea
of being shot at

and not being able
to sh**t back.

It makes me nervous.

That is because you have
the wrong approach
to this work.

Stretcher bearers
on the b*ttlefield
cannot sh**t back either.

That's quite a thought.

My dear fellow,
w*r has nothing noble
or sensible about it.

It's simply
an epidemic of madness,

and anyone who takes part
in it is a lunatic
and a m*rder*r.

There's a lot
in what you say, Captain,

but I don't think it would be
of any particular comfort
if you happened to get hit.

There are many ways
to avoid being hit.

For example,

when I hear
the first shell coming,
I very often turn away,

go full astern,
and sail backwards.

That way, I make myself
a small target,

and at such a distance,
it is difficult to tell
in which direction I am going.

Then I change course, zigzag,

and if necessary, repeat.

And you've never
been hit, Captain?

Never.

Any particular reason
for this ship having been
in dry-dock?

Her superstructure
was shot away,

but that was your
predecessor's contribution,
Captain Walters.

Why do you think
he k*lled himself?

It was an accident.
He drank a great deal.

I don't think he knew
what he was doing.

I trust you are not
a drinking man.

Have you met your crew?

No. I had them called.

I thought I'd take her out
for a dry run today.

Then I will leave you to it.

She is very lively
on the rudder.

You must remember
to give her counter-wheel

the moment you start
pulling her around.

- Thanks.
- Your engine is absolutely first class,

but there is a choke
in the bilge pump.

You might tell your
chief engineer.

Thank you.

Hansie, Hansie...

Come, we go for a walk now.

Sit, sit. This is yours now.

I'm all right, thanks.

Uh, Captain, we were talking
about being shelled.

Yes.

Only this,

in this work one must learn
how to live with fear.

You mean
you're afraid too sometimes.

Yes,

but I believe in God.

Let me tell you something.

There are two kinds of fear.

In the one, no matter
how great your terror,

you pray to God and then
you struggle desperately,

even superhumanly, to survive.

With the other,
you're so frozen, so paralyzed

that you cannot move

and accept the death blow
without a quiver,
almost with thanks.

That is the dangerous fear.

You see, my friend,

there is only one enemy
who really matters,

the enemy within yourself,

and only one thing to fear,

self-betrayal.

And, forgive me,

but you must remember
that your crew is afraid, too.

So for that reason,
more than ever,

you must be both,

their Captain and their father.

If they respect you
and have faith in you,

they will still be afraid,
but not so much.

And above all,

no drink,

and no bad women.

Drink will destroy
your judgment.

And that kind of woman
will bring you bad luck.

You see, my friend,
in times like these,

it is much harder to command
than to be commanded.

This isn't exactly
my first ship, Captain.

Of course.

Oh, here is your crew.

They're a good lot.
But like the others
of this branch of the service,

sadly lacking in discipline.

- Goodbye.
- Goodbye.

Oh,

do you sing?

- Sing?
- Yes.

We are lacking a baritone
for the church choir.

And we begin rehearsals
for Christmas next week.

I'm sorry, I don't sing.

Oh, pity.

Good luck.

Six to four
this one's fresh from school.

Always expect the worst
from life, my boy.

You won't be disappointed.

What's wrong, Chief?
Your horoscope bad today?

Watch it! Watch it!

- I'm the mate, sir, Weaver.
- How do you do?

Mr. Grogan, the chief engineer.

- Aye, sir.
- The boson, Mr. Baker.

Aye, sir.

Well, I'll give you
the complete list
later, sir.

I want to see just
what this ship...

I want to see just
what this ship can do
this afternoon,

so be prepared
for some lively maneuvers.

That goes particularly
for you, Chief.

Aye-aye, sir.

All right, let's get moving.

Make ready for sea, boson.

Stand by fore and aft!

Let go of everything forward!

Hang on to your after spring.

- Slow astern.
- Slow astern, sir.

Let go aft!

- Half ahead.
- Half ahead, sir.

I'm not convinced
the Almighty intended

for tugs to be placed
in the hands of Americans.

But we shall see
what we shall see.

Engine room.

Engine room,
can you give me
a little more speed?

We're at full speed now, sir.

Yes, I know, but I'd like
a little more, please.

I can't answer
for the boiler, sir.

Naturally I'll take
the responsibility for that.

Aye-aye, sir.

More speed.

We've got
a sporting gentleman aboard.

More speed he wants.

Full astern.

Full astern, sir?

That's what I said.

Full astern.

Full astern?

I knew it.
He's run her onto some rocks.

I knew he was an amateur
the moment I saw him.

Full ahead.

Full ahead, sir.

From full astern
to full ahead.
Playing games, is it?

Enjoy yourself.

The man's mad.

- Thank you.
- Thank you, sir.

-She's a bit lively
on the rudder.
-Yes, sir.

You have to watch
the counter-wheel
on the turns.

- Aye, sir.
- Engine room, thank you very much.

You can take her down to
your normal cruising speed now.

Aye-aye, sir.

- Handles very nicely.
- Yes, thank you, sir.

We'll be going home.
You can take a fix.

Oh, right, sir.

Twenty-eight years
I've been to sea,

and never, ever had
a day like this one.

Oh, uh...

There you are, sir.

Well, sir, you, uh,

certainly kept us busy
today, sir.

Yes, thank you very much.

Now I know what she can do
in evasive action.

Yes, sir. That's right, sir.

She's a good ship.

You couldn't expect her
to do any more
and still be called a tug.

And a beautiful engine, Chief.

You've every right
to be proud of her.

Right you are, sir.

By the way,

check your bilge pump, will you?

I think you'll find
something wrong there.

Aye.

Aye-aye, sir.

- Boson.
- Aye-aye, sir.

How does it behave?

Oh, sir, it's terrible.
It's a proper witch.

You never know
what it's going to do.

Put it on the top of your list
for a complete overhaul.

List, sir?

Yes. Haven't you
a little notebook

with a list of things
that have to be done?

No, sir.

My bosons always have
a notebook and a list.

Get one, Baker.
We'll charge it to petty cash.

Aye-aye, sir.

I'm not quite as particular
as Captain Van Dam,

but I do want everything
on this ship operational
at all times.

Aye-aye, sir.
I'll get that little notebook
as soon as we get ashore.

She's a nice little ship,
isn't she?

I should think we were doing
better than 16 knots
some of the time.

Very nice indeed.

Sir, I'm...
I'd just like to say that...

Yes?

Well, I'd just like
to say that I'm

very glad to be serving
under you.

Weaver, do you sing?

Sing? No, I don't, sir.

Good.
I think we'll get along fine.

- Hello.
- Oh, hello. I, uh,

- just came by to return this.
- Who is it?

David!

Yes, he has brought your pipe.

- My pipe?
- Hmm.

- We've got enough of everything, haven't we?
- Of course.

Come on, David!
We're having a party.

What's the occasion?

You suspect something,
don't you?

Tell him.

We are going to be married.

That's wonderful.

I wish you both all the happiness
in the world.

- You're a lucky man.
- I am a lucky man.

Go on, kiss the bride.

Go on! You're going to be
the best man, kiss her.

He's shy. Go on, kiss him.

Yes, that's a very good
best man kiss.

Now watch me give my girl
a first class husband kiss.

Well, David, now you
ring up headquarters
and tell them where you are.

I'll open the wine,
then we'll eat, drink

and be happy,
because we're all
wonderful people.

Stella, where...
Where's the corkscrew?

The corkscrew?
I don't remember.

I don't think we have one.

I'm sorry, it's my fault.
I should have thought of it.

Never mind.
I'll use something else.

Here.

No, don't. You'll break it.

Nonsense. I've done this
millions of times.

Look, I'm bleeding.

Stop it.

Don't say you told me so.

Go wash. Change your shirt.

Yes. Yes, yes, I'm sorry.

Yes?

Yes, it's Ford speaking.

Thanks a lot.

You couldn't have chosen
a better time.

Yeah. Goodbye.

Oh, wouldn't you know it.

Keep my share warm,
I'll be back Tuesday.

David, stay and keep Stella company,
there's a good fellow.

No, I'll see you to the ship.

You'll what? Why?

Please.

But I've asked you
a dozen times
and you've never wanted to.

I know,
but tonight I do want to.

Oh, let's save it till daylight,

the sun shining on the waters.

I'll have the boys
sing us a shanty
as we shove off.

Chris, please.

Look, let's skip dinner tonight.

I'll see you later.

Now, what's all this about?

I'm afraid.

Of what?

Now, now, this is an easy one.
It's just off the coast.

I... I could swim out to it.

Please.

All right,
but we must get a move on.

Good luck.

Thanks.

Oh, Captain,
they've been calling you.

You're got an SOS too.

You're to get to headquarters
right away.

Thanks.

Here's your lame duck, here.

Two hundred miles
west of Bishop's Rock,

about 24 hours' steaming.

That means daylight, I'm afraid.

A bit awkward for you
on your first time out,

but I'm sure
you'll be all right.

- Good luck.
- Thank you.

What've we got, sir?

Freighter on fire.

But if I'd known you were
going to carry on like this,

I'd never have to let you
come down.

You've never behaved
this way before.

Just because we're going
to be married.

Well, I may change my mind.

That's better.

Now you go home.

Try not to get lost
in the dark, won't you?

Good girl.

- Skipper?
- Yes?

Ready when you are, sir.

I'll be right out.

Oh, Weaver.

I thought we were
supposed to have
the new armor plate

for the wheel-house
windows today.

Yes, yes, I know, sir.
They just didn't come.

They'll be here soon, I hope.

I'm sure they will.

Okay.

How far do you make her out now?

About five miles, sir.

Keep your fingers crossed.

Sir.

- Hard to starboard.
- Hard to starboard.

Engine room,
give me everything you've got,
flat out.

Aye-aye, sir.

Port 20.

- Full astern.
- Full astern.

That would have been
dead center, sir.

- Full ahead!
- Full ahead.

- Full astern.
- Full astern, sir.

- Port 20.
- Twenty to port, sir.

Who told them to stop sh**ting?

Hard to starboard.

It's jammed, sir.

Port 20.

The marines have landed.

- How did it go?
- Can't complain.

Kane, you'd better take over,
until further notice.

Okay.

- What happened?
- We were strafed.

-Which of you is the skipper
of W 88?
-He is.

Thank you very much, Skipper.

I must say you fellows
certainly know your job.

Thanks. Thanks very much.

Fill out your report there,
will you?

How did it happen?

I told you. We were strafed.
Twice. We were
on our way home.

He was too slow taking cover.

Got it on
the second run, right...
Right across here.

Knocked him right over the side.

He was probably dead
by the time he hit the water.

Said he was getting married.

Yes, I know.

Somebody will have to
tell his girl.

I know her. I'll do it.

Did he give you the key?

Yes.

Well, have a good time.

As long as it lasts.

Waiting for Number 12?

Yes. Is she out?

She's never out, that one.
Not even to do her shopping.

I do that for her.
You try again, Captain.

Stella?

I'm sorry.

They were strafed.

He was hit by machine g*n fire
and he fell overboard.

Would you like some coffee?

No, thanks.
There isn't much in the house,
but I can open a tin.

I'm not hungry, thanks.

I could give you
some soup or a sandwich.

I really don't care
for anything.

Look, they tried to find him,

I... I checked.

They searched
as long as they could.

They were sure
that he was dead when...

When he went over the side.

When do you want the flat?

I don't want it, it's yours.

No, it's yours now.
You promised him
you would take it.

Otherwise, he would not
have given you the key.

I know all about it.

Yes, but I don't want it.
I... I wouldn't think of it.

The rent is paid until
the end of the month.

The chimney should be cleaned.

There is enough hot water
if you're careful.

Oh, the woman downstairs
will do your shopping.

You must watch her,
but she's kind.

Or you can do it yourself.
The shops are not very far.

-Fruit and vegetables
are scare, but...
-Please, please!

I'm sorry.

I mean, I know you're upset
and trying to make
it easy on me,

but this conversation
about food and flat

and shopping
and fruits and vegetables...

They're always hungry
when they come back.

They?

I thought we were talking
about Chris.

Chris is dead.
They are all dead.

Yes, they are, aren't they?

Do you know something?

I think that first impressions
are the best.

Now I know where I am.

How would it be
if I moved in tonight?

I told you, the flat is yours.

And what about you?
Would you stay
if I asked you?

If you like.

And he was going to marry you.

Maybe in a way it's better
that he got k*lled.

Oh, I see. You are shocked.

I'm sorry.

I didn't think all those rules
were so important anymore.

Now that people are so busy
k*lling each other.

If you want anything, you can
telephone me at the hotel
or send a note.

Stay here as long as you want.

If you want to go
someplace else, I'll help
you make the arrangements.

Thank you.

Goodnight.

Want a bottle
of whiskey, Captain?

No, no thanks.

The canteen price.
You save money.

No thanks.
Goodnight.

- Get moving here!
- Fire!

Bloody thing's
stuck, sir.
Get up some steam!

- There isn't time. Full ahead!
- Fire!

It's stuck. Push! Come on!

Everybody, heave!

Heave!

Heave!

If we can't hit him
at this range,
we can't hit anything.

Three hundred yards.
They've never been
this close before.

Heave!

Why aren't they sh**ting?

I don't know.
Why aren't we sh**ting?

Fire!

Action stations!
Fire, why don't you?

Come on! Start firing!

What's the matter there?
What are you playing at?

What's the matter
with you down there?
Fire! We can hit him.

It's jammed again, sir.

-Engine room.
-Engine room, give me
everything you've got.

And if you mention
the word boiler, I'll...
I'll shove you into it.

-I want that g*n fixed.
-You're the Captain.
Give the order.

I could have got that sub
if I'd had a decent g*n.

- Yes, I'm sure you could have.
- They know we can't hurt them.

- He came right alongside.
- So you said.

Confidentially, we've just got
the story on this sub that's
been worrying you.

It isn't a mine-layer at all.

It's an old French
training ship the Germans
have taken over,

and they're using it
for the same purpose.

I should imagine they
were giving the new boys
a chance to look you over.

That's what it sounds
like to me.

-A training ship?
-The Captain's an old
gunnery instructor

whose name, of all things,
is Hasenfratz.
Would you believe it?

You mean we're being used
for target practice?

Exactly. Old Hasenfratz
couldn't ask for
anything better.

You make perfect targets.

You're small, but not too small.

- Fast, but...
- But not too fast, yes.

I don't think we should let it
be generally known, do you?

Then why did you tell me?

I thought it might be
of some help to you.

The only thing that might be
of some help would be
some decent g*ns.

So why don't you try to get some

instead of sitting there
playing with that
silly lighter?

There's no need
to be offensive, old chap.

You may not believe it,
but I've done my best.

I've been pleading for g*ns
ever since I was sent here.

By now, I'm sure
they're filing my reports

in the nearest
waste-paper basket.

The fact is, we don't have them.

No, we haven't any decent g*ns
to give you. There simply
aren't enough to go around.

We haven't even got
the new armor plating
we've asked for.

Look, you may as well know it.

Every time a freighter's
left behind, it's written off.

Every time you bring one in,
its sheer profit.

I'll go on pestering them
for g*ns till I'm black
in the face

and they kick me out to rid
of the buzzing in their ears.

But if you want
my honest opinion,
you won't get your g*ns

till every merchant man
in the Allied Fleet
has been fitted out.

I'm sorry, but that's how it is.

If it's any consolation to you,

you might care to consider
that you're not the only one.

- I'm sorry.
- It's all right.

No, no. I'm really sorry.

It's so hot in here.
How'd you like
to get some air?

On the beach like?

- That's nice.
- I've heard that one before.

The only social service I do
is on the dance floor, sailor.

Congratulations, Captain.

Thanks.

Moved into the flat yet?

No, I haven't
moved into the flat yet.

Hey, Captain.

Do you want
a bottle of whiskey,
the best of Scotch?

Yes.

- How much?
- Canteen price.

- 1...
- Uh, 3.

Listen, Hasenfratz...

I happen to know that
canteen price is a pound. 1.

The canteen is closed.
It's 3.

How would you like it
if I broke your neck?

It would still be
the same price. 3.

Happy dreams, Captain!

Well,

here comes another one.

I'm sorry. I lost my balance.

And that's not all I lost.

When I came here,
I lost my dignity,

and I lost my self-respect.

You know what I mean?

I'm drunk.

I'm drunk, so I'm going home.

Home to the Grand Hotel.

Room 77.

Don't send me
to room 77, Stella.

I'll get sick to my stomach.

Thank you.

You know, everybody thinks
they're different.

But we're all the same.

I'm no different from Chris

or Van Barger

or that other fellow up here.

Knock, knock. Who's there?

You know, you've got
enough jackets in there
to open a clothing store.

Hi, Philip.

It's too bad you are
what you are.

But you are, aren't you?

You come with the flat,
don't you?

Hey, Stella!

You had a hunch
that Chris was going
to get it, didn't you?

I could see it on your face.

You had a premonition.

Can you always tell?

- Number, please.
- 218, please.

Once upon a time there
was a little man by the name
of Hasenfratz...

If there are any calls
for Captain Ross, he can be
reached at this number.

- 407.
- Thank you.

Thank you.

That was a brave thing to do.

I'm not brave. I'm scared.

For the first time,
I'm really scared.

For the first time, I know
what Chris was talking about.

And you know,
they're all scared.

But I'm a Captain.
I'm not supposed to be scared.

What did he tell me for?

I didn't want to know.

Who wants to be a target?

That's inhuman.

There's no dignity.

There's no...
There's no...

No...

Stella.

Don't go away.
Where are you going?

To bed.

Hi.

Hello.

- How did it go?
- All right.

I, um...

I, uh, thought the place
could stand some flowers.

They're very pretty.

Thank you.

I'll go and wash,
I know you must be hungry.

He says,
"Water pressure damaged,
fire in bow's out of control

"and nearing forward oil tanks.

- "Can you help?"
- In what particular way?

I think he means, can we help
put out his fires, sir.

I was afraid
you were going to say that.

Okay. Tell him we're coming
with every bucket we've got.

What's he saying now?

He says he's very sorry
and he hopes he doesn't
blow up in your...

Face.

- Port a little.
- Port a little, sir.

The line g*n ready?

As quick as you can
with the connecting up,
please.

Steady! Steady as you go.

- Steady as you go, sir.
- Fire hoses standing by, sir.

Let go forward hoses.

- Midship hoses.
- Ready hoses.

Line g*n! Fire!

Please be quick
with your connecting up.

Weaver, is your insurance
all paid up?

- Yes, sir.
- You're a very smart fellow.

Ready, sir!

Take her away.

Stand by and single up.

Hurry up with
the towing spring there.

Anything I should know, Captain?

-No, you're all set.
You can shove off any time.
-Thank you.

How did it go?

Good luck.

You've ordered the Pom-Pom
overhauled again. You know
it is a waste of time.

Probably, but I still like
a g*n that shoots.

And I hear you have moved
from the hotel.

You don't really
have to bother keeping
tabs on me, Captain.

That woman is bad luck.

She'll k*ll you.

Like she has k*lled
all the others.

Oh, uh, Captain, do you sing?

No better than the last time
you asked me. Sorry.

Oh, yes, yes, yes, I remember.
A pity! Come, Hansie,
now we go to work.

- Goodnight, sir.
- Goodnight.

- Goodnight, sir.
- Goodnight.

Let go forward.

Let go aft.

...little to report
since our last bulletin.

And that is the end of the news.

-Oh, I'll get out
of your hair.
-Oh, no. It's all right.

This is awfully good chocolate.

Thank you, but not as good as
we have at home.

Oh? Where's that?

Switzerland.

But you have an...
You have an Italian accent.

I know, because I come
from the Italian side.

I've never been to Switzerland.

They say it's beautiful.

Oh, yes, it's lovely.
I lived on a farm,
very high up in the mountains.

Like Heidi.

And there was a little lake,
very pretty, always blue.

You must miss it.

No.

My family are dead
and I had no friends.

Must have been lonely.

Perhaps I was.

When I was very small,
my grandmother told me a story

about two lovers
who were separated by the sea,

and who used to send
each other letters
in little boxes on the tide.

I thought
it was a wonderful story.

I wrote "I love you"
on a little piece of paper
and I put it in a tin,

and one morning I went down
to the lake and let it
float away.

I hoped that someone
on a far shore would find it
and write back to me.

Did they?

No.

Would you like
some more chocolate?

No, thanks.

I'll get your sleeping pills.

- Goodnight.
- Goodnight.

Fire!

Fire! Fire!
He's right on top of us!

No! No!

No!

No...

Mine!

- Hard to starboard.
- Hard to starboard, sir.

- Hard to port.
- Hard to port, sir.

Blow it up.
Make sure we're clear.

David, the telephone.

-David.
-It's all right, darling,
I've got it.

I beg your pardon?

Sorry. I was talking
to someone else.

- What is it?
- Oh, nothing really.

I just thought you might
like to know that
the United States of America

have come into the w*r.

No kidding. On which side?

I think that's in rather
poor taste, old chap.

Considering they're
your people.
And they've done more...

Forgive me, Commander.
I guess I'm not quite awake.

What happened?
Well, it seems the Japanese
bombed someplace

called Pearl Harbor.

Did a lot of damage too,
lots of casualties,
I'm afraid.

I'm sorry.

They must be crazy.

- What is it?
- It's all right, darling.

-It's good news
in the long run.
-Yes, isn't it darling?

See you soon, darling.

What is it, David?

What did he say?

Come here and I'll tell you.

Tell me now.

America's come into the w*r.

Does that mean that you
will get better g*ns?

I hope so.

Right now, I'd like
to get some breakfast.

It's possible?

It's possible.

Hey!

Philip.

Philip!

Oh, dear God, Philip!

Oh, forgive me, Philip!

Oh... Forgive me.

Home and dry in an hour, sir.

This is all highly irregular.

There is something wrong?

Yes. Well, you see, you were
reported k*lled in an air raid
almost a year ago.

It's going to be
a fearful mess to untangle.

Oh...

Well, what can we do?

Well, what was it
you wanted anyway?

Well, I thought I could do
some kind of work at home.

Parachutes perhaps. Anything.

Oh, yes, I see.

All right. Fill out this form,
will you, please?

Thank you.

It's bound to cause
a great deal of confusion.

I'm very sorry.

Hey, where are you?

Stella?

Oh, thank goodness.
She told me you were back.

I've been out shopping.

- So I see.
- Oh, it was exciting.

-I'll bet.
-How do you like
my new dress, hmm?

-I love it.
-You know, a woman
at the Labor Exchange

said I was k*lled by a b*mb.

And she was very angry with me.

Oh...

How pretty. Thank you.

You're welcome.

Are you all right?
How did it go?

Fine. No trouble.
Hasenfratz never
showed up at all.

Why didn't you wake me
when you left?

Because you look so pretty
when you're asleep.

I...

Woke myself up anyway.

- Did you?
- Yes.

When I came in
and you weren't here,

- I thought you'd gone away.
- No.

Never go away.

Never.

If you're going to be doing
the shopping,

going in and out,

you'll need a key.

I've got an extra one.

I had one made. I've just been
carrying it around with me.

I think you ought to have it
from now on.

- Would you marry me, David?
- Only if you'll marry me.

You were very good to me.

You put me to bed
and you didn't ask questions.

There's no sense
in asking questions
if you know the answers.

Do you?

Yes.

I would like to tell you
more than you know,

about Philip and afterwards.

Some other time.

We've got lots of time.

We've got all the time
in the world.

Yes, we have.

I can't understand it.
I got a merit badge
for this once.

Never mind now, look.

Happy Christmas, darling.

And a very merry
Christmas to you.

-Hmm. Shall we open
our presents now?
-No, later.

Except this one.

This is all for me?

Mmm-hmm.

- That's very nice.
- Open it.

I haven't anything nearly
as nice for you.

I'm not afraid.

Now sit down.

No, sir. Not until I get this
roaring fire roaring.

There's one last hope.

I don't know why
this always works,

but it creates a draft
or something.

You see? It's possible.

You see, I told you
it would work.

We'd better go down
to the shelter.

Yes.

* Was to certain
poor shepherds
in fields as they lay *

* In fields where they
lay keeping their sheep *

* On a cold winter's night
that was so deep.

* Noel, Noel

* Noel, Noel

Don't leave anything around.

It's time that poor
dog was taken out.

- David?
- Yes, darling?

What is it?

Nothing.

Oh, the food is all spoiled.
I am sorry.

Shall I make you some chocolate?

No, thanks, not for me.

I'm tired.
Think I'll go to bed.

Shall we open our presents now?

Let's do it in the morning, huh?

All right.

Are you going somewhere?

Would you mind if I go to
midnight mass?

No, I don't mind.

-It's late. I'll walk you
to the church.
-No, I'll be all right.

-No, I'll walk you
to the church.
-No, please.

You need your rest.

What's the matter?

Nothing. I wasn't sleepy.

Was it a nice mass?

I didn't go in.

I didn't think I had the right.

Excuse me. Your telephone
seems to have gone
out of order in the raid,

and they sent me over.

Skipper. We've got a job.

It's Van Dam's turn.

Yes. They can't find him.
They want us right away.

- Okay.
- I'll go on ahead.

Sorry.

I'll make you some coffee.

I don't think there's time.

Where are you going?

I want to go with you
to the pier.

It's too late. I...

I don't want you coming home
alone so late.

You can see me off
some other time.

Don't worry.
Nothing to worry about.

- David, please.
- I said no.

Go to bed, do you hear?

David, don't go.

Look, I don't believe
in premonitions...

yours or anyone else's.

And I'll tell you
something else.

A man once told me
you were bad luck.

And I don't believe that either.

And then there was Chris.

He said that none of us
would get out of this alive.

But if that's true,

then there's nothing...

Nothing to hope for,
nothing to believe in.

We've just been
kidding ourselves.

It's not true.

I'm not like the others.

I'm not going to wind
up just another jacket
on a hanger in there.

I'm not going to die...

Not tonight anyway.

Go to bed.

Lord, what a mess.

Just listen to him squeak.

- What's the story on Van Dam?
I don't know.
He hasn't turned up.

We're hoping it's nothing
to do with the bombing.

Okay, what have I got?
Freighter on fire in position
50 north, 9 West.

That's not a duck, is it?

- It is.
- Sending an open SOS?

Yes.

Another one?

No, I'm afraid it's yours.

Don't be silly. He hasn't...
He hasn't been squeaking
all this time?

Is he crazy? He'll have every
U-boat in the North Atlantic
swarming all over him.

I can only think
he's forgotten to open
his sealed instructions.

He's one of
your people. It's our first
all-American convoy.

Carrying g*ns, oddly enough.

Why don't you tell him?

What have you got them for?

Can't, sir.
His receiver's not working.

I'm not going.

Why should I?

What do I tell my crew?

This is the end of the line?

There isn't a chance
in the world,

but let's all go out
and get k*lled,
because we're heroes.

Hurray for the Light Brigade!

W 86 has just come in.

I'm sending her out
as soon as I can get
her other crew together.

I'm afraid it's bad luck
all around,

but I'm sure
you'll make the best of it.

Sure.

Let's get moving with W 86.

Stand by to cast off.

All right, let's get moving.

-Skipper.
-How about getting this ship
ready for sea?

Skipper.

-Yes?
-On the radio, that duck's
sending out an open SOS.

Yes, I know.

Well, they're not really going
to send us out, are they?

I mean, it's hopeless, isn't it?

There's no point in it,
is there?

Maybe if you
were to talk to them
at Headquarters.

Sparks, when I want
your advice, I'll ask for it.

Get back to the radio.

Yes, sir. Sorry, sir.

Sparks!

Nothing.

Hey!

Here.

We're ready, Skipper.

All right, shove off.

Always the same?

Always to end like this?

Is there no pity?

Please...

Please.

I can't see what he's firing at.

- Have we got a chance, Skipper?
- We'll be all right.

-I don't know how we
can be, frankly.
-We'll be all right.

- Sir!
- Yes?

He says they've used up
all their ammunition

and you can't depend
on him for anything
for covering fire.

-Does he say
how many subs he's got?
-No, sir.

That does it.

Engine room! Engine room!

Secure the bulkheads!

Hard to port.

-I said hard to port.
-She's fouled, sir. She won't
turn except to starboard.

The engine room's gone, sir.
The boiler's going any minute.

All right. Abandon ship.
Get out. I'm going to ram him.

Get out!

Abandon ship!

Abandon ship!

Tug blew up ramming sub.

What happens now?

- Operator!
- Sir?

See if you can reach W 86.

Steady as you go.

- Dead slow.
- Dead slow, sir.

David?

I'm sorry.

He gave you the key?

Yes.

Look, look, I'm all right.
Let me go.

You'll stay here
until that's stitched up.

I've got to get home!

Are you the guy
that rammed that sub
and saved my ship?

Mister, I want to shake
your hand.

Why did you break silence?

Why didn't you follow
your instructions?

Instructions?
I never had a chance
to open them up.

My chart room was busted
wide open on the first shot.

I think it'd be a good idea
if you two fellow countrymen

kissed and made up, don't you?
Or shook hands, anyways.

Look, I want to thank you,
I really, want to thank you.

I want to show you somebody
who'll never forget
what you did for them tonight.

Oh, this lousy w*r.

Yeah. And yours
is only three weeks old.

Get out.

Get out!

I looked everywhere for you.
This was my last stop.

How would you like
to go 50-50 on the flat?

She's gone.

- Where?
- London. I took her to the station.

How was she?

All right.
She asked me to give you this.

She said you forgot.

When did she leave?

About now, I guess.

Don't be a fool. She's gone.

Ticket, please.

Thank you.

Sorry, too late.
Let him go by.
His girl's on that train.

I'm sorry, boys, it's too late.

Oh, look, give him a break,
will you?

I'll find her.

- When I get back to London, I'll find her.
- Sure.

I will.