This is it, Rupert.
Our big Chance.
Maybe next week,
your name will
go up in lights.
Rupert, the talk
of the town.
You--you won't let me down,
will you, Rupert?
You'll do everything
just like I taught you, huh?
[twitters]
Ah, yes. Now--now, how about--
how about a dress rehearsal?
Here.
[twittering]
The curtain is up.
You're on the stage.
Stay right there
when I tell you.
Now--now get ready
for our song and dance.
Are you all set?
Now, 1, 2...
♪♪ [playing]
♪♪ squirrels adore the name,
admire the fame of Rupert ♪♪
♪♪ he's in a class alone,
the one and only Rupert ♪♪
♪♪ he jumps rope
so gracefully ♪♪
♪♪ and you ought to see him
climb a tree ♪♪
♪♪ think of an acrobat,
and, mister, that is Rupert ♪♪
♪♪ think of a ballet star,
and you're not far
from wrong ♪♪
♪♪ he taps his little toe
and steals the show ♪♪
♪♪ and takes
your heart along ♪♪
Now we've got to do
the dance in unison.
And it's got to be perfect,
For everything depends
on how we do it.
Now,
You all set? Here we go.
[twittering]
Phil.
Phil, I'm so glad
to see you.
Joe, how have you been?
Oh, not too good,
but everything's
gonna change now.
Here, sit down.
How are you, miss?
Flo, this is Joe Mahoney.
He used to work out
of my father's office.
And the best lion-tamer
in the business.
[laughs]
Weren't you?
Go on with you.
Delighted, I'm sure.
Thank you.
Well, what's this new act
that you wired me about?
Well, here it is.
Now greet the man, Rupert.
[laughing]
You mean, that's it?
That's it.
A squirrel?
Sure.
You wouldn't fool me,
would you?
Ho-ho, Phil,
he's a great performer.
Something like Rupert
only happens once
in a million years.
I'm sorry, Joe,
but I'm not interested.
He's--he's not
box office.
Come on, honey,
we're late.
[stuttering]
But, Phil, you haven't
seen what he can do.
Well, I've seen
enough already.
Joe, look, a lion is
a big savage beast.
He's vicious, ruthless.
A bloodthirsty k*ller
from the faraway jungles
of darkest Africa.
So he's box office.
But a little pipsqueak thing
like a squirrel
That anybody can see
anyplace, in any park,
anytime is just...
Besides, he's so small,
they'd never see him
in the balcony.
But, Phil, I tell you,
Rupert’s almost human.
Come on, honey,
we're late.
Just a minute.
Look, Joe,
I'd love to give you
a break.
I know things
have been tough, but...
Well, he just ain't--
Box office.
Goodbye, Mr. Dingle.
I'll pay you every cent
that I owe you.
You should, Mahoney.
You should.
Hey, Pete, get a broom
and pail, and help me
clean this place out.
Ah, it's nice
and peaceful here, ain't it?
You--you can breathe.
Now--now take a good look
around at some
of your new pals.
Now I want you to go on
and get acquainted
with them. Come on.
That's it.
Now, don't be stubborn
about this. Go on.
Oh!
Well, to be sure,
it's a silly outfit.
There you are.
They would have
laughed at you.
Yes, I know.
Now, go on, go on.
Yes, I know you
don't want to. Go on.
I know you'll be happy here.
I know they're gonna
love you. You'll be
the life of the party,
Doing the somersaults
and all the cute little tricks
that I taught you.
Go on, I tell you.
b*at it, I tell you.
[yelling]
b*at it, I tell you.
What shall I do?
You just ain't box office.
Papa, do you think
we might have some money
In that Chicago account?
Oh, I heard from
that bank last week.
I think I got
the letter with me.
Yeah, here it is.
It says,
"dear Mr. Amendola,
"this is the last monthly
statement we will mail you.
"we feel it is
hardly worth 3 cents
To tell you
you have 2 cents."
Let's get going, hmm?
Look at all those
lucky people,
Hurrying home
with arms full of packages.
They'll have
turkey for Christmas,
packages under the tree.
Don't envy them,
Rosalinda.
I bet every one
of them faced a Christmas
Like us at some time
or another.
And besides,
it ain't Christmas yet.
Who knows? Old saint Nick
may have a bundle
for us, too.
But the trouble is,
we ain't got no address
he can deliver them to.
Amendola!
The Amendola trio!
Joe! Joe Mahoney!
Joe, darling!
Now--now, don't tell me
this is little Rosie.
Yeah, she's certainly
growing fast.
A little too fast.
Why, it seems like only
yesterday I bought her
them shoes
And already she's complaining
they're too small.
And with you, Amendola?
How's the act been going?
Us? Great.
Sensational.
Why, if I made any
more money, I'd have to
buy myself a wallet.
[laughing]
And you know
something, Joe?
No.
We've played
the circuit
so many times,
Just for a change
we booked a European tour.
Europe?
London, Paris,
Budapest.
And in India,
we gave a performance
The audience
will never forget.
Why?
Because they were
elephants.
[laughing]
Please, a little respect
for that joke.
It's older than you.
Sorry, Joe.
I see you haven't been
doing so good, huh, Joe?
Well, to tell you the truth,
it has been a little--
You don't have
to tell me.
It's the same with us.
We haven't worked
Since Rosie cut
her 2nd teeth.
Joe, do you live
around here?
I do. I did.
I just moved out
less than a half-hour ago.
Oh, is the place
rented yet?
I don't think so.
How much rent
did you pay?
I didn't.
But if you've got $32,
you can move right in.
How long did you live there
without paying any rent?
6 months.
Just what
we're looking for.
Something out of
the high-rent district.
Joe, it's been good
seeing you.
And--and you must drop in
and see us soon, Joe.
Yes, yes, thank you.
Hey, wait.
Wait for me!
Hadn't you better
ask him where it is?
We ain't got
no time.
Oh, Joe.
Where is it?
322-and-a-half maple street.
Just over there.
Come on back.
It's this way.
Hey, wait for me!
Merry Christmas.
[twittering]
[sniffing]
[bird caws]
[dog barking]
[man whistling]
(man)
come here. Here, boy.
Come here. Here, boy.
[man continues whistling]
[bird squawking]
[hooting]
♪♪ [playing]
[knocking]
Oh.
Hello.
Oh, uh, pardon this
unseemly protrusion
But after reading
this sign,
I took the Liberty
of removing it.
I don't think you're gonna
need it anymore.
You wanna rent
this place?
Well, we might work
something out,
If you don't drag
lawyers into this.
Well, you'd better speak
to my father about it.
He's right next door.
Oh, on, uh, 2nd thought,
I can handle this myself.
Come in.
Be back
in a minute.
[moans]
Gosh, it's good
to be home.
My name is Amendola.
My name is Pete dingle.
Rosalinda.
Joe Mahoney sent us.
Oh.
Well, that's ok with me,
but, uh, don't mention
it to my father.
Uh, the rent
will be $32 a month.
Well, uh, I don't mind
electric bulbs
that are unfrosted.
And, uh,
I don't mind beds
with springs that fight back,
Or window shades that curl up
like anchovies.
But there's one thing
I can't stand:
Leaky faucets.
Oh, do you mind?
(Pete)
not at all.
[water running]
Perfect.
Well, mama, you might
as well start unpacking.
This ain't exactly
the bridal suite
at the Waldorf.
But who knows?
If we give this place
a good cleaning,
We might find
an extra room.
"good cleaning"
is right.
Look at all those cobwebs.
Rosie, don't touch
those cobwebs.
They're probably holding
the building together.
Well, now that all
the business has been
taken care of--
But you see, Mr. Amendola,
my father, unfortunately,
wants his money in advance.
And a lucky man he is,
too, your father,
Having a son so gifted
in the art of music.
Oh, I, uh,
just fool around--
Tut-tut, tut-tut, I know.
I, too, am a musician.
And modesty compels me
to admit that I play
a pretty piano
And if necessary,
I can even play an ugly one.
[laughing]
Well, don't forget.
Feel free to drop in
at any time.
Oh, thanks very much.
And now
about the rent--
Oh, I think
I'm gonna like it here.
Well, I hope so.
Now, if, uh, you don't mind,
I'd like to change.
Oh, no, not at all.
I mean, uh...
I--I--I'll see you later.
[laughing]
Well, mama, I did it.
Hey, look, pa,
he forgot his tuba.
He'll be back.
But if he don't,
You can blow on it every night
and announce dinner.
[laughing]
You realize what I've done?
No rent in advance,
and a roof over our heads.
[laughs]
There's an awful big hole
in the skylight.
So what? If it snows,
we'll be the only ones in town
Who'll have
a white Christmas
Inside the house and out.
Hello, Pete.
Hi, Dave.
Hey, I think I got
a letter for you.
Oh?
No, it's for
your old man.
I'll give it to him.
Well, if I don't see you
tomorrow, merry Christmas.
Yeah, same to you.
Did you clean the place?
Clean it?
I rented it.
Good, you can work
if you make up your mind.
Who'd you rent it to?
Oh, their name
is Amendola.
Their?
Uh-huh.
How many are there?
Oh, just 3.
They're awfully nice people.
Well, that's good
for a change.
I'll take the money.
Uh...
There's a mother,
and a father
And a daughter.
Ok, give me the $32.
And you know, they didn't
even ask for any redecorations
or repairing anything.
You know that saves us
a lot of money, pa.
Pete, don't tell me
you let them stay
without paying.
Oh, you're gonna get it.
They're awfully nice people.
A mother, and a father
a-and a daughter.
Yeah, you said
that before.
Look, son, I want
that $32 right now.
And if you don't get it, I'll
go over and get it myself.
And if I don't get it,
out they go!
But, pa, I gave my word
of honor we'd wait
a couple of days.
You don't wanna break
your own son's word, do you?
Oh, there he goes again:
Honor, Charity,
Love thy neighbor.
Everything but money.
Tell me, son,
what did money ever do to you
that you hate it so much?
[doorbell rings]
I'll get it.
Oh, hello.
Hello. You forgot
to give me the key.
The key?
Oh, yes, yes, the key.
Here it is.
Thank you.
Hey, wait a minute.
You're, uh, you're gonna
stay, aren't you?
Well, if my father--
(Frank)
who is it, Pete?
Look, uh, don't go away.
I'll be right back.
Who was it?
Oh, the, uh, the postman.
Uh, it's for you.
National security bank.
Now, what do those
chiselers want?
What is it?
Oh, just an advertisement.
Oh.
Katie, Katie, Katie,
come here. Come here.
Frank, what is it?
Katie, that worthless
gold mine I invested in
10 years ago is paying off.
Heavens, no!
Look, here's a check
for $1,500.
And they say we're gonna get
the same amount
Each week from now on.
Mercy! It's the day
before Christmas, too, Frank.
It's money from Heaven.
Yeah.
We should go to church
and pray.
Oh, yeah, sure, sure.
But first I'll go down
to the bank and
cash the check.
I--I know that apartment
isn't what you folks
have been used to.
But you know, with a little
paint and fixing it up--
You mean,
you'll redecorate it?
Well, I...
I--I'll speak
to my father about it.
And mother's been having
a little trouble
With the stove.
It's awfully old.
Well, we'll see what
we can do about that, too.
Uh, maybe get you
another one.
A new stove!
Uh, shh!
Is there somebody
asleep in there?
My father.
I mean, well...
My father's
a little reluctant
about investing money.
He has to be handled
with kid gloves.
Say, how about going
for a walk?
Not in these shoes,
I wouldn't.
They pinch my feet.
Well, go get some others.
I'll wait for you.
It'll be a long wait.
I haven't any others.
Oh, what size
do you wear?
Dreaming of a size 4. Why?
Stay right
where you are.
Not a word of this
to a soul, Katie.
Uh, not anybody,
especially that
lazy son of yours.
If he finds out about it,
He'll blow that blasted tuba
the rest of his life.
Mom, what size shoe
do you wear?
6, why?
Oh, never mind.
Now, don't you go buying
shoes for me for Christmas
Because I've got
2 pairs already.
Isn't that nice of him?
Not a nickel in his pocket,
and he wants to buy me shoes.
Aw.
Just for that, Frank,
I want you to buy
a nice necktie for him
And put it under
the Christmas tree.
He likes those
hand-painted ones.
I saw some perfectly
lovely ones for only $5.
$5, eh?
I'll get some paint
out of the attic
and paint one myself.
They called us
the Amendola trio,
the human pyramid.
Papa balanced mama
on his shoulders,
And then I stood
on top of mama,
All done up like
a little Angel.
Sounds exciting.
Then papa juggled, mama sang,
and I played the harp.
Used to go over big.
Only I started growing,
mama got heavier
And one day,
papa's legs gave out.
You mean
he dropped you?
4 times in one week.
The 4th time,
mama broke her leg.
You gotta hand it
to papa, though.
He never broke a plate.
He's a great juggler.
Look, there's my father,
coming out of the bank.
Wonder what he was doing
in the bank.
I've never been
in a bank.
Just to think of all that
money in one place.
(vendor)
a week ago, the price
of this tree was $7.
Yesterday, $4.
Now, what are my bids?
40 cents.
40 cents. Make it a dollar.
(man)
one dollar.
I wish we were
gonna have a tree.
Of course,
with the moving and all...
We've talked enough
about me.
Tell me about you,
where do you work?
I don't. Oh, that is,
I write music.
Oh, does it pay?
No.
Then you don't work.
Well, I don't have a job.
Can't you find one?
I've never looked for one.
What do you do
for money?
I don't need money.
But suppose you were
walking along with a girl,
And she wanted a--
a malted milk.
What would you do?
Well, that would be
pretty embarrassing.
I'm sorry
I said that, Pete.
Come on, let's go home.
All right, folks,
just 2 more left.
What are my bids
for this one?
40 cents.
$1.50.
$1.50.
Do I hear $2?
$1.50, once,
$1.50, twice.
Sold to this
gentleman for $1.50!
Now for the last tree.
All right, folks,
it's your last Chance.
What're my bids
for this one?
40 cents.
75 cents.
75 cents.
Do I hear $1? $1?
Will someone make it $1?
75 cents, once,
75 cants, twice--
$1.
$1, I've got. Once, twice,
sold to this
gentleman for $1.
Here you are, buddy.
Say, mister,
would it be all right
if I pay you 40 cents now
And the balance later?
Sure, sure!
Just take the elevator
up to the 18th floor.
That's our credit department.
This is a cash sale, buddy.
Do you want the tree
or don't you?
Hey, wait!
Look, you can have the tree.
Give me the 40 cents.
Oh, thanks!
I'll pay you
the rest as soon as I can.
I'll give you a week. If you
don't pay it up by then,
I'll find out where you live
and take the tree back.
...11, 12,
13, 14, 15.
Why didn't you leave it
at the bank while
you were there?
At the bank?
Katie, you're not serious.
After all that happened
to our little savings in 1929?
No, sirree, they're
never gonna get any
of my money again.
I'm going to hide it
right in this house.
Katie,
You better run
over to the church
And say that
little prayer now.
Frank, you're sending me away
Because you want to
keep the hiding place
a secret from me.
Oh, no, it isn't you, Katie.
It's Pete.
You're too soft-hearted
with that boy.
I'm afraid that--
What's the use of money,
anyway, if you hide it?
Money's for buying things,
To enjoy life,
to have some pleasure.
Ah, that's a lot of hooey.
Money's for security,
Not to worry
about the future,
to enjoy sleep.
All right, Frank,
I'm going.
And I don't care if you stick
that blasted money
up the chimney,
And let it smoke till it
smells like a ham butt.
(Christmas carolers)
♪♪ come all ye faithful ♪♪
[car engine starting]
[car pulling away]
♪♪ o come ye ♪♪
♪♪ o come ye ♪♪
♪♪ to Bethlehem ♪♪
How long...
How long is it going to be?
Moving from one
place to another.
Always moving,
Never having a place
to call our home.
Believe me, Lord,
we've tried so hard.
We've tried everything.
Everything.
But it's so difficult
to find a job
for a human pyramid.
You're our only hope.
So it's up to you.
Please.
♪♪ o come ♪♪
♪♪ let us adore him ♪♪
♪♪ Christ the Lord ♪♪
♪♪ the first Noel ♪♪
♪♪ the angels did say ♪♪
♪♪ was to certain
poor shepherds ♪♪
♪♪ in fields as they lay ♪♪
♪♪ in fields ♪♪
♪♪ where they lay
keeping their sheep ♪♪
[hammering]
♪♪ on a cold winter's night ♪♪
♪♪ that was so deep ♪♪
♪♪ Noel, Noel ♪♪
♪♪ Noel, Noel ♪♪
♪♪ born is the king ♪♪
♪♪ of Israel ♪♪
Tomorrow is Christmas.
We haven't even got a tree.
No money to buy
some little gifts.
Not even a pair of shoes
for Rosalinda.
She must have
those shoes, Lord.
She needs them real bad.
Thank you!
Thank you!
Tell me, Rosalinda,
Do you still play the harp?
Sure, why?
Well, I think
I'll compose something
Just for the harp and tuba.
And I'm gonna call it
the Melody of 2
orphaned instruments.
That's a cute title.
Do you think
they'll go together?
I don't know.
But I'm hoping.
Papa! Papa! Wait!
But I don't understand.
A tree! Presents!
And look at it,
papa, a turkey!
And cranberry sauce,
and plum pudding,
and candy, and nuts.
And, look,
brand-new shoes.
But how? I don't understand.
You couldn't have won it
on a quiz program.
We haven't got any phone.
No, papa,
I didn't win anything.
Mama! Your wedding ring!
You didn't hock your--
No, I didn't hock anything.
All I did--
I know.
You wired that
drummer in Boston
who had a crush on you.
That sheik with
the patent leather shoes
and tuxedo.
I remember what he said
when we announced
our engagement.
"if ever you
needed anything--"
Papa, that was
22 years ago.
I don't care if it
was 100 years ago!
I never trusted
a guy with a tuxedo,
Especially a rented one.
Let mama explain, papa.
No, the money
didn't come from him.
It came from--
Here, papa,
you'd better sit down.
Better loosen
your collar, papa.
Rosalinda, bring papa
a glass of water.
Papa, you love me,
don't you?
Of course I love you.
And you trust me?
You'd believe me if
I told you something,
wouldn't you?
Even if nobody else
in all the world
would believe me,
You would believe me,
wouldn't you, papa?
Sure, I would, mama.
Well,
I was sitting right here
in this chair,
And I was praying.
And...
Well...
This money...
$1,500
Come floating right down
through the hole
in the skylight.
$1,500?
From Heaven?
You do believe me,
don't you, papa?
If you said it,
I gotta believe you.
Oh, merry Christmas, papa.
Merry Christmas, papa. Mmm.
You see, Rosie?
I told you old saint Nick
wouldn't forget us.
All we needed
was an address.
Frank, this perfume
is lovely. "dangerous."
Such a big bottle.
It must have cost
at least $10.
Eh, it's not that dangerous.
This is a terrific tie,
dad. Thanks again.
Did you see
the watermelons, mama?
They're hand-painted.
[doorbell rings]
Now, who's that?
Merry Christmas, young man.
Merry Christmas.
May we come in?
Oh, why, of course.
Merry Christmas.
Merry Christmas.
Merry Christmas.
Merry Christmas to you.
Why, Mr. Amendola,
we have
the exact same ties on.
It could be a lot worse
if we were girls
wearing the same dresses.
[both laughing]
Oh, mom, dad, this is
Mr. And Mrs. Amendola
And their daughter Rosalinda.
How do you do?
We're your new tenants,
and the yuletide season
being upon us,
We thought we'd drop in
and pay you a visit.
To pay what?
A visit, Frank,
a visit.
Oh.
Well, make yourselves
comfortable.
Do sit down,
Mrs. Amendola.
Thank you.
I'm glad you brought
your harp, Rosalinda.
(Rosalinda)
can we put it right over here?
That's a nice tree you
got there, Mr. Dingle.
Where did you get it?
Molineri's?
Uh-huh.
Maybe we ought to
go down there next week
And make
our payments together.
Payments? Speaking of
payments, Mr. Amendola,
Just what do you
do for a living?
Doesn't the name of Amendola
suggest nothing to you?
You surely must have seen us
perform someplace.
Florida in
the racing season,
Lake placid in
the winter season,
Or perhaps Africa in
the malaria season.
Yes, sir, dingle,
someday you'll
be able to say
The Amendolas
were your tenants.
If I don't get my rent money,
I'll be able to
say that tomorrow.
I'm glad you brought
that up, Mr. Dingle.
Now, if you'll just
hang your sock
on the mantle,
I'll drop in
3 months' rent.
Keep the $4 change.
3 months' rent in advance.
Mr. Amendola,
we're so glad you folks
dropped in on us.
Katie, get Mr. Amendola
a chair,
And some coffee
and some cake, Katie.
(Frank)
where's the Christmas spirit?
That's right, where is
the Christmas spirit?
♪♪ jingle bells, jingle bells,
jingle all the way ♪♪
♪♪ oh, what fun it is to ride
in a one-horse open sleigh! ♪♪
♪♪ jingle bells, jingle bells,
jingle all the way ♪♪
♪♪ oh, what fun it is to ride
in a one-horse open sleigh! ♪♪
Ah, I love
the excitement of Christmas.
I'll never forget
one Christmas Eve
when I was a kid.
I hung my stocking
up on the mantle
and went to bed.
And when I woke up
the next morning,
What do you think I
found in the stocking?
My father's foot!
[all laughing]
♪♪ jingle bells,
jingle bells, jingle all-- ♪♪
Soft.
♪♪ oh, what fun
it is to ride ♪♪
Soft.
♪♪ jingle bells,
jingle bells ♪♪
Wait a minute!
Wait a minute!
Another outburst
like that, Mr. Dingle,
And I'll hide
your electric trains.
♪♪ jingle bells, jingle bells,
jingle all the-- ♪♪
Soft.
♪♪ oh, what fun it is to ride
in a one-horse open-- ♪♪
Soft!
How do you like that?
There's a guy going in
business for himself.
Wait a minute.
All together!
♪♪ jingle bells, jingle bells,
jingle all the way ♪♪
♪♪ oh, what fun it is to ride
in a one-horse open sleigh! ♪♪
♪♪ jingle bells, jingle bells,
jingle all the way ♪♪
♪♪ oh, what fun it is to ride
in a one-horse open sleigh! ♪♪
[all laughing]
This is wonderful.
♪♪ now, isn't it a shame
that Christmas comes ♪♪
♪♪ but once a year? ♪♪
♪♪ wouldn't it be nice
if it came around twice ♪♪
♪♪ spreading hope
and good cheer? ♪♪
♪♪ just when everyone
forgets goodwill to men ♪♪
♪♪ that's the time
for jingle bells
to chime again ♪♪
♪♪ now, isn't it a shame ♪♪
♪♪ that Christmas
comes but once a year? ♪♪
♪♪ now, isn't it a shame
that Christmas comes ♪♪
♪♪ but once a year? ♪♪
♪♪ wouldn't it be nice
if it came around twice ♪♪
♪♪ spreading hope
and good cheer? ♪♪
Mr. Dingle, this is
gonna develop
Into a long and
beautiful friendship,
Even closer than
Damon and Phythenias.
♪♪ now, isn't it a shame ♪♪
♪♪ that Christmas comes
but once a year? ♪♪
[all cheering]
You'll notice Rosalinda
brought her harp along.
She didn't bring it to
slice hard-boiled eggs.
All right, Rosalinda.
Here you are, Rosalinda.
Thank you.
Oh, I finished the Melody
for 2 orphaned instruments.
Wanna try it?
Sure. Set the music
right over here, Pete.
Ok, here you are.
Thanks.
Ready?
Yes, uh-huh.
♪♪ [playing music]
I don't want
my wife to hear this.
The stage has
always fascinated me.
Don't you think
I've got a very
fine singing voice?
Why, the bathtubs
of the world
Are full of singers,
Mr. Dingle.
But did you
ever hear of anyone
Doing a backflip
in the bathtub? No.
And you know
the reason why?
Because only a few
of us are acrobats.
Oh, acrobats. I'd just love
to learn a few tricks.
I'm always so dull
when company comes.
I can't do a thing.
Can you teach me
a few things?
Why, I'd be glad
to teach you.
You got anything around here
that we could rig up
like a teeterboard?
A seesaw?
Yeah.
Oh, I think so.
Let me see, now.
How about a table leaf?
You got one? Go get it.
Great, now get me
a glass of water.
Thanks.
Why, this trick is so simple,
I taught it to Rosalinda
When she was
only 3 years old.
Now you get up
on that chair.
I'll stand down at this end,
place the glass
of water on my head,
And when I say go,
you jump down on that end.
I will then do
a back somersault,
light a cigarette in midair,
And land in that chair
without spilling
one drop of water.
Ready?
Ready.
Go.
Termites.
(Katie)
that's so pretty, Pete.
And he wrote it himself.
(Mrs. Amendola)
how well he plays the tuba!
Oh, it's lovely, Pete.
So are you.
Gosh, Rosalinda,
your hair, your dress...
Gosh, you're beautiful.
Thank you, Pete.
May I have this, Pete?
Oh, sure, sure.
I wrote it for you.
Look, somebody's coming
to see us,
in a beautiful car.
Rosalinda, go down
and see who it is.
It might be
somebody important.
Yes?
Oh, uh, hello. I, uh...
Is Joe Mahoney home?
Well, he's moved away.
He has?
Well, do you know
where he went?
Oh, I'm afraid I don't.
Oh, that's great. What
do I do with this Christmas
present I brought him?
Here, it's yours.
Go ahead.
I really don't--
Oh, it's just fruit
and things.
Uh, you live here?
Yes.
Alone?
With my parents.
Oh, well, that's nice.
(Mr. Amendola)
uh...
Anything I can do for you?
My name is Phil Davis.
I'm a friend of
Joe Mahoney’s--
Phil Davis, the agent?
Yes, that's me.
Believe me,
this is a pleasure.
My name is Amendola.
You've heard
Of the Amendola trio,
haven't you?
You know, the human pyramid?
Come in.
Come in.
Now, don't pay
any attention to this
apartment, Mr. Davis.
We just moved in yesterday.
Not much of a place,
But for certain reasons
it fascinates me.
Oh, Mr. Davis,
take a look
at this poster.
You're gazing at
one of the greatest
vaudeville acts of its time.
And, uh, the only
reason we disbanded
Was because of my
little daughter's
rapid maturity.
Oh, yes, I can see
what you mean.
Oh, Mr. Davis,
I was just thinking
I can work alone.
Why, I can out-juggle
anyone in the business.
And you know something?
I can juggle 25 plates
with one hand.
And with the other hand,
I pick up the broken ones.
[laughing]
Just a little joke
I use in the act.
Now if you give me
your undivided attention...
Say, that's good.
That's great.
How did you do it?
Huh?
How did you do it?
What? Oh,
that's a trade secret.
Do it again.
Oh, yes,
do it again, papa.
Rosalinda, you know
the great Amendola
never repeats twice.
Well, that's very clever.
I'll try and book you,
Mr. Amendola.
Sure. Sure.
Now, uh, how about you?
About me?
Yeah.
Oh, I'm sorry to butt in,
but the, uh, coffee's ready.
Oh.
You know, a girl with
your looks and figure
should be in the limelight.
And I'm just the man
that can put you there.
Said he as he
twirled his black mustache
and eyed the proud beauty.
Who's he?
Please.
You were saying,
Mr. Davis?
A girl like you
should have
a decent place to live.
Not a dump like this.
What's good enough
for my mother and father--
Is hardly good enough
for a raving beauty
like you.
And Mr. Davis here
is just--
Please.
Well, the coffee's ready.
It's getting cold,
and so is the cake.
I'm sorry, but Mr. Davis
is a very important
Broadway agent.
Broadway chiseler.
I beg your pardon.
What was that?
Oh, I know the type.
Promises young girls
expensive clothes,
diamonds, furs.
Anything to
make an impression.
He didn't say
those things. You did.
Well, he was going to.
What right has he got
to call me a chiseler?
Why, he doesn't even
know me.
I think he's jealous.
Well, maybe
he's got a case.
Say, it's Christmas,
and I'm all alone.
How about me taking you out
to a Chinese dinner tonight?
I'm sorry, but I was...
I'd love to.
Father, may I go out
with Mr. Davis?
You better ask your mother.
(Rosalinda)
oh, thanks a lot.
[door closes]
I threw 5 nuts up,
and only 4 came down.
This defies
the laws of gravity.
[church bell tolling]
It's midnight.
She isn't home yet.
Mama, stop worrying.
Nothing can happen to her.
She's not alone.
She's with a man.
Mama,
Another Miracle
happened this afternoon.
A Miracle?
I tried to juggle
a few walnuts.
One didn't come down.
It just disappeared.
Mercy me.
This is a strange house.
Money comes down
and walnuts go up.
But I guess
that's better than
Money going up and
walnuts coming down.
I don't know
what to make of it.
[snoring]
Katie? Katie?
What is it, Frank?
I've been thinking about
that Amendola family.
Why should people
who can afford to pay
3 months' rent in advance
Wanna live in
a dump like that?
Frank, last night
you couldn't sleep
Because they didn't
pay their rent.
Tonight you can't sleep
because they did.
For goodness' sake,
stop worrying
and go to sleep.
[car approaches]
[laughing]
Why don't you
check out of this town?
Come to new York.
Things can happen
to you there, Rosie.
Oh, let's not start
that again, Phil.
Oh, I'm crazy
about you, Rosie.
I'll do anything for you.
Do you know any
music publishers, Phil?
Sure, dozens of 'em.
Why?
Well, I--I wrote some music.
I think it's beautiful.
If you could take it--
I didn't know
you were a composer.
[sighs]
"Melody for
2 orphaned instruments
by Peter dingle."
Who's Peter dingle?
Oh, you see, well,
I put a man's name on it
Because I knew no one
would even look at it
if they knew a girl wrote it.
Well, I'll see
what I can do.
If it's any good,
I'll try and
have it published.
Oh, thanks a lot, Phil.
Well, good night.
Wait a minute.
Uh, see you tomorrow.
[car engine starts]
[doorbell buzzing]
Oh, I'm sorry
to wake you up,
Mr. Haggerty.
Well, what's the matter,
Pete? Somebody sick?
Yeah, me.
I want that job.
Well, do you want to
start right now,
Or can you wait
till tomorrow morning?
I'm sorry, I was afraid
somebody else might get it.
You see, Mr. Haggerty,
I need money.
Hey, Pete?
Yeah.
Bend closer, laddie boy.
This is for
your ears alone.
I got a sure thing
in the 6th
at California today.
Cut me in on 40 percent
of the winnings,
and I'll give it to you.
This one can't lose.
It'll win in a walk.
Yeah, and while
our horse is walking,
the others will be running.
If you have another
hot tip, mulligan,
leave it under the plate.
[bell on door ringing]
Yes, sir?
What's your best cigar?
Oh, I got some good ones
back here. A quarter apiece.
Quarter apiece?
How much does
a whole one cost?
[laughing]
It's just a little joke.
About as little
as I've heard.
Pete.
Hello.
Hi.
What will it be?
I, uh,
I didn't know you
worked here, Pete.
Well, that's strange.
It was in all the papers.
But remember,
once you told me
you were opposed to work.
Sure.
I even remember
I couldn't buy a certain girl
a cool drink in a drugstore.
Now, not only can I buy it,
but serve it, too.
What will it be?
Pete, you took this job
on account of me.
The girl I'm referring to
only wanted a malted milk.
Can we go now?
Oh, it's you.
Let's go, honey.
I'd like
a malted milk, Phil.
Not in this dump,
please.
Goodbye.
So long.
Look, Pete,
you're missing
a great bid.
That filly's sure to
wind up in the money.
Yeah,
that's what I'm afraid of.
How's that for a bargain?
Only $49.50.
But, papa,
what do we want
with a polar bear rug?
This isn't
an ordinary polar bear.
Just watch.
All you got to do
is twist the tooth and...
♪♪ [music playing]
Music! It's also a radio.
Oh!
The other tooth
is for shortwave.
But we don't
need it.
Sure we do.
It lends an air
of quality to the place.
Mama, what's a real home
without a polar bear?
But we must stop
buying things.
That $500 you have left
has got to last.
Oh, uh,
I'm glad
you brought that up.
You know that
Mr. Byfield,
Who we bought these few
pieces of furniture off?
Well, I stopped by
there today to look
At that little piano
we were talkin' about.
And you know somethin'?
He isn't doin' so well.
Oh, papa,
I hope you didn't--
It's not his fault
that business is bad.
Naturally, with the banks
leaning on the place
And no one to--
Our last $500.
Oh, papa, all our lives,
you've been doing this.
Whenever we get
a little ahead,
You meet someone
who's in trouble
And you just melt
like chocolate
in a baby's hand.
I couldn't help it.
He needed it.
But, mama, we got
nothin' to worry about.
We still got that $100
I gave you yesterday.
No, I mailed
that money away
For the unpaid bills
we left in Chicago.
That puts us right back
where we were a week ago.
That's right.
All you gotta do
Is do what you
did a week ago.
Pray.
Well, I am prayin'
every hour of the day.
But if it's more money
you want me to pray for--
Why not, mother?
It's worth a try.
Well...
Well I...
I just wouldn't have
the nerve to ask again.
Besides,
it's selfish.
But papa just told us
he helped somebody with it.
That wasn't selfish.
And besides,
All you gotta do is ask,
And let Heaven
make up its own mind.
Well, even if I could
remember the prayer--
You must remember,
mother.
The same thing
you said before.
Well, I don't know.
All I recall sayin' is that
Rosalinda needs shoes.
But now she
doesn't need shoes.
She has 4 pairs already.
But, mama,
when you say
she needs shoes,
That doesn't mean
she really needs them.
It's like
stagehands in the theater
playin' dice. A guy says:
"baby needs
a new pair of shoes."
That doesn't mean
she needs them.
It's just
a disfigurement of speech.
Mmm, all right, bring me
the little old rocker.
I'll get it.
I was sittin' in it
when it happened.
Say it, mama.
Say it.
Please, help us.
Rosalinda needs shoes.
She needs them real bad.
It's no use, mama.
The prayer
won't be answered.
Maybe it has
been answered,
And the answer is no.
Well,
We're grateful, anyhow.
I guess I'd better
take this rug
back to the shop.
Please forgive me
for telling a lie.
Rosalinda doesn't need shoes.
Come back! Come back!
It's coming down!
It happened
exactly a week ago
at about the same time.
Exactly $1,500 again.
Bless me!
Now, all you gotta do
is sit in that old rocker
Every Thursday
at 3:30 and say:
"Rosalinda needs shoes,"
and collect $1,500.
It's funny how
simple life can be.
It's comin' down.
Hello, Petrushka.
Here's your pies
and cake, Mr. Amendola.
Thanks.
Oh, and here's a check.
Your share of our profits
for this month.
Well, well.
You cast your dough
upon the waters,
it circulates
And it comes back
strawberry shortcake.
Thanks, partner.
Thank you,
Mr. Amendola.
Who was it, papa?
Petrushka,
our baker.
Ah.
Oh, mama.
Look.
This is our share
of the month's profit.
Oh.
How much did we
decide to contribute
To buy shoes for
European children?
$600. Why?
Well, deposit this,
and we can make it $1,000.
Oh, that's fine.
I'm telling you,
it's all over town.
This Amendola character
gave $1,025
for kids' shoes.
He lives in a stable
and sleeps on straw.
The guy doesn't work.
It don't add up.
Where does
he get the money?
He gave $2,500
for European children.
What line of
business is he in?
Nobody knows.
Read all about it!
Local man gives
thousands to Charity!
Read all about it!
When they moved in,
they didn't have
a nickel to their name.
2 months later,
he buys a shipload
of shoes for foreign kids.
Now, how do you
figure that?
I'd like a super-duper
triple-decker
banana delight.
Coming up.
You know what I think?
He's printing
his own money,
right there
In that shack of yours,
Mr. Dingle.
Well, I hate gossip.
But I just heard
from a friend of mine
Whose wife told him,
and she swears it's true,
That Amendola is
a big gangster in hiding.
And if I was you,
Mr. Dingle,
I'd notify the police
right away.
Notify the F.B.I.
I saw it in a movie.
Someone should write them
an anonymous letter.
Sure,
write anonymous letters.
Report him to the police.
Put him in jail.
The guy has to be punished
because he has a big heart.
Oh, pipe down, Pete.
I told you never to argue
with the customers.
Sorry.
I think it's all
a lot of hooey.
You know what I heard?
A man comes to see
the pretty Amendola girl
every day in a big car.
(woman)
we can't hear you.
(man)
louder.
A man comes to
see their daughter
every day in a big car.
That's true.
He's a Broadway agent.
What about him?
Like a little,
uh, strawberry?
Sure. Sure.
He's the individual
that floods Amendola
With money,
on account of that girl.
Some whipped cream?
Love that.
That's what I say
about actors.
People like the Amendolas
can contaminate
a whole community.
Just like one
rotten apple
in a barrel.
Pete!
Oh, my goodness!
You know, I forgot
the cherry.
What will it be?
Bourbon and water.
Hi, Pete.
Oh, hi.
Say, I had dinner
at the drugstore
And I heard you
pushed a chocolate sundae
Into a perfectly good
customer's kisser.
Is it true?
No, it was
a banana delight.
You're hurt, Pete.
Who hurt you, boy?
Nobody.
I just counted my money
And I discovered
I was 16 cents short
of my first million.
That makes me sad.
Listen, Pete,
if you're open
to a proposition,
I know how to
make some real dough.
Get this.
A friend of mine...
Look, Eddie,
why don't you make like
a ballerina and dance away?
Here, stick this
in the jukebox and
play somethin' loud.
This friend of mine
is drilling for
oil in California.
He's down 9,000 feet.
Got 500 more to go.
So now it's oil stocks.
Don't you ever
give up, mulligan?
( jukebox starting )
But, Pete, for only $2,000,
you can grab yourself
20 percent interest
And become
a millionaire in no time.
Are you out of your mind?
Where would I get $2,000?
How about asking
your old man?
Oh, don't be ridiculous.
My father gets
a small pension.
He's very happy
if he can make ends meet.
That's what
you think, Junior.
My brother-in-law,
who happens to be
a policeman at the bank
Says that old man
of yours has been
Cashing pretty large
checks for weeks now.
Wait a minute.
I did see him coming
out of the bank once.
And he gets a letter
from them every week.
You see?
All you have to do
is ask him to back you.
What father could refuse
such a proposition?
Tell me, mulligan,
is this really on the level?
I'll tell you
what I'll do.
I'll introduce
you to my friend.
He'll show you the papers.
And besides,
he'll give you all
the security you want.
I'll see you tomorrow.
There must be
a screw loose in your head.
Who's got $2,000?
What $2,000?
Pa, I know you have it.
You've been seen
in the bank
Cashing large checks
lately.
That's a lie.
Now get out.
I don't want to
hear any more about it.
I'll pay you back.
I'll repay you
10 times over.
But I haven't got it,
I tell you!
I haven't got it!
Pa, you must
give it to me.
You simply must.
Get out, you crazy fool.
Get out before
I break that blasted tuba
over your head.
Get out!
[door shuts]
Goodbye, Phil.
(Phil)
I'll take you to the door.
Oh, no,
that's all right.
Sure you can
get in all right?
Sure.
Good night.
[car driving away]
Oh, Pete.
Hello, Rosalinda.
It's a beautiful night,
isn't it?
Yeah.
Mind if I join you?
No.
No, not at all.
I, uh...
I wanna talk to you.
What is it, Pete?
Well, that is, I--
I have no right
to say this, but...
Oh, say it anyhow, Pete.
It might be something
I'd like to hear.
Well, it's the money
your father's spending.
They think it's
coming from Davis.
(Rosalinda)
from Phil?
(Pete)
yeah.
They say he's in love
with you.
Well, you don't
believe that,
do you, Pete?
I can see
how anyone might
get a wrong impression
About Phil and me,
I mean.
But there isn't anything
between us, Pete.
I can't explain to you
about the money,
Because there just
isn't any explanation, but--
Oh, there's
no need for one,
Not about Davis,
or the money
Or anything.
Then, what is it, Pete?
Why are we
sitting here like this,
When all you
have to say is...
(Pete)
oh, what's the use,
Rosalinda?
All right, suppose
I am in love with you.
That's not enough.
$2,000, plus more luck
than I dare hope for,
And we might be able
to do something about it.
A marriage license
only costs $2.
Yeah, but how
could we live?
We could manage.
How?
By putting windows
in my tuba
And converting it
into a quonset hut?
My mother and father
didn't have a penny
when they were married.
And papa says that
that was the happiest time
in their whole lives.
Very true.
(Pete)
that's great.
But I can't even juggle.
We'll have to take that up
the first thing
in the mornin'.
But why must
we have $2,000?
It's an oil deal,
a-and it might come in.
Then again, it might not.
But if it did...
Oh, what's the use
trying to dream
my way out of it?
Pete, maybe papa can
lend you the money.
Maybe.
(Pete)
but $2,000?
You can ask him.
I'm sorry, Rosalinda.
I'm superstitious
about borrowing money
that comes from Heaven.
[crying]
Oh, Pete? Pete?
Oh, Mr. Amendola.
I couldn't help overhearin'
you and Rosalinda
talking out here.
It's not that
I was eavesdrooping,
or that I meant to listen.
It was just that
I had to get up and fill
the cold water bottle.
You see, my feet
get very hot at night.
I, uh, hope
we didn't disturb you.
What disturbs me
is this idea you got
About Rosalinda
and this guy Davis.
Believe me,
there's nothing to it.
Why, if you'd look
with your heart
instead of your eyes,
You could see where
her best intentions are.
Look, Mr. Amendola,
it isn't Rosalinda.
It's me.
Sure it's you.
I heard what you says
about being broke.
And if you ask me,
I think your get-up-and-go
has got up and went.
What you need
is confidence.
And listen.
About that $2,000,
I'd be very glad to--
I--I couldn't
take your money,
Mr. Amendola.
Of course,
the oil might come in,
But right now,
it's just a hole in
the ground in California.
So what?
Uncle Sam put money
in a hole in the ground
And it turned out
to be Fort Knox.
And I can take
a risk, too.
But let's talk
about it in the mornin'.
Mama,
where's Rosalinda?
Went for a walk
with the boy next door.
You know, papa,
I think that's
getting serious.
Serious?
Oh, they might get married
and have a couple of kids.
But that's as
far as it would go.
Oh, papa.
Mama, remember this?
Vaguely.
Some boy
who was courting me
Used to sing it
to me 22 years ago.
Who was that, now?
Was it the wealthy
cattleman from Montana,
or that drummer from Boston?
Mama, that was me.
[laughs]
of course it was, papa.
And I've been singing myself
to sleep with it ever since.
Sing it, papa.
♪♪ take an "l,"
take an "o,"
and take a "v" ♪♪
♪♪ take a "w,"
another "w," another "w" ♪♪
♪♪ take a park,
a bench beneath a tree ♪♪
I remember.
♪♪ to that l-o-v,
you can add an "e" ♪♪
♪♪ take a girl, a ring ♪♪
♪♪ a little "I do" ♪♪
♪♪ a house in the country
for just me and you ♪♪
♪♪ and then soon,
there will be 1, 2 or 3 ♪♪
♪♪ little "w," little "w,"
little "w" ♪♪
♪♪ [piano playing]
Yes, gentlemen?
We're not together.
I'm lieutenant Saunders,
police.
I'm looking for a man
named Louis Amendola.
That's me.
I'm inspector Tainey,
bureau of internal revenue.
May I come in?
Sure. Sure.
What did you do, papa?
I don't know.
Unless I've been burning
the incinerator after-hours.
Gentlemen,
this is my wife.
Well, uh,
Now all we need
is the F.B.I.
[knocking on door]
Oh, pardon me.
Callahan, F.B.I.
Are you Mr. Amendola?
Yes, sir.
Won't you come in?
Thanks.
Me and my big fat mouth.
Mr. Amendola,
I'd like to ask
you a few questions--
Do you mind?
I was here first.
Mr. Amendola,
the department of
internal revenue
Would like some
information regarding
your source of income.
What income?
We got a report--
Please. May I?
We have a report showing
you've been spending
large sums of money,
The source of which
is not indicated
In your previous
income-tax reports.
We're a little curious,
Mr. Amendola,
To know where the money
is coming from.
We saved a lot
when we were
the human pyramid.
And I took
that money and
I invested it wisely.
I'll have you know
that I've majored
in economics
At Cranfus college.
Cranfus? Never heard
of that college.
Why, that's like saying
you never heard
of Joe Tupis.
Who's he?
He's
the president of Cranfus!
Mr. Amendola, we're not
interested in your education.
We just want to know
where you're
getting the money.
All right, gentlemen.
I'll tell you the truth.
I'm the long lost son
of a very wealthy typhoon.
When I was only
2 days old,
A nurse turned her back
while I was making a change,
And I was stolen
from the cradle
By a band of
starving gypsies.
And a few months ago,
The king of the gypsies
came and told me
who my father was.
I see you don't
believe me.
All right,
I'll tell you the truth.
I was down at the beach,
digging with my
pail and shovel,
When suddenly
my shovel struck
The top of
an ironbound chest.
Pirates' treasure, eh?
(Mr. Amendola)
that's right.
That does it.
Look here, Amendola,
You've been
reported for everything
From swiping tires
off baby carriages
to operating your own mint.
Now,
what's your racket?
Please
leave him alone.
Why can't we tell them
the truth, darling?
It's so simple.
All right, lady,
what is the truth?
Where does
the money come from?
From Heaven.
Well,
that explains everything.
But it's the truth.
It comes
straight from Heaven.
$1,500 every week.
On the dot.
I like the one about
the pirates' chest better.
Come on, Amendola,
let's go and tell it to
the boys at the station.
But I can prove it.
I can prove every word--
Now, Mrs. Amendola,
how can you prove it?
It's easy.
I put this old rocking chair
in the middle of the room
Sit down there,
and say a little prayer.
And when I say,
"Rosalinda needs shoes..."
The money comes
down like rain.
All right,
Mrs. Amendola, show us.
Pull up the chair
and say the prayer.
Wait a minute.
She can't do it today.
The Miracle
happens on Thursday
between 3:00 and 3:30.
All right, we'll be here
Thursday at 3:00.
Thursday at 3:00.
[door closes]
I should doubt my veracity.
Look.
[horn honking]
And I hear
they're both doing
tremendous business.
They are, eh?
All right, come on, let's go.
Look.
How's business,
Mr. Molinari?
Couldn't be better,
Mrs. Dingle.
More orders than
we can take care of.
Come on, Katie, let's go.
Clever man,
that Amendola.
Pretty soon he'll own
the whole town.
You could've done the same,
if you'd invested your money
Instead of hiding it.
Marx
and Amendola garage.
Oh, look at that.
No, I won't look!
And don't stop every second.
I'm getting tired
of this thing.
You know what
I'm gonna do?
I am gonna raise
Amendola's rent again.
As of today! Come on.
Right.
Due to the increased
cost of living,
I must raise
the rent of this place.
Again?
This is the 8th time
you've raised the rent since
we moved in, Mr. Dingle.
You're forcing me
to join landlords anonymous.
Well, you can move out
if you want to.
Let's not be too hasty,
Mr. Dingle.
You might be right.
Maybe the cost of living
has increased.
I wouldn't know,
I haven't done
today's shopping yet.
Uh, how much more
do you want?
Mmm, well,
$30.
$30? $125 a month?
Why, it's robbery!
Well, if you think that,
you can start packing
right now.
Oh, he didn't mean that,
Mr. Dingle.
Did you, papa?
Of course not.
I apologize, Mr. Dingle.
Why, for only $125 a month,
where else could
you find a place
Where the sunshine comes
streaming through
the keyhole all day?
You're right.
You can't take
advantage of me
Like you have been doing
with bankrupt shop owners.
Now,
look here, dingle.
I only helped those
fellows out because
no one else would.
And besides,
I'm not making money
on all those investments.
For instance,
your son's oil venture.
I'll surely lose
the $2,000
I invested in that.
You deserve to.
He couldn't take me
for a sucker.
I wouldn't
give him a nickel.
If you did,
You'd probably
shortchange him,
you tight old buzzard.
Oh, that's done it.
Another word out of you,
And I'll punch
you in the nose!
Why, I'll--
Oh, papa, papa!
Mr. Dingle!
Why, you two should be
friends, if only for our
children's sake.
They love one another.
Papa, who knows? They might
get married someday.
Oh, no son of mine
will ever marry
A girl with your
daughter's reputation.
Why, get out!
Get out! Get out!
Oh, papa,
papa, the chair.
It's broken.
Get me some
nails and glue.
I'll fix it. Hurry!
It's almost time to pray.
"we are sorry to
inform you that"--
[gasps]
Katie!
Katie, Katie!
[gasping]
Yes, Frank?
Our gold mine is exhausted.
There'll be no more checks.
[grunting]
Oh, oh.
Let's get going, Amendola.
It's almost 3:30.
Ok.
All right, mama.
Say it.
Rosalinda needs shoes.
[snoring]
Oh, look--
Gentlemen, gentlemen,
a little Patience.
$1,500
is a lot of money.
Sometimes
we gotta ask twice.
Try it again, mama.
Try it again.
Rosalinda needs shoes.
Once again.
Once again.
[groaning]
Rosalinda needs shoes.
I guess you're right, mama.
It seems
the Miracle is over.
[Mrs. Amendola crying]
I threw away $1,500 a week
when I threw this chair.
It's not the chair.
It's that we have no excuse
to ask for any more.
You're right, mama.
But we're doing
all right, now.
There's a lot of
poor people praying
in this world.
Now it's their
turn for miracles.
I'm moving out of this
shack the first thing
tomorrow morning.
Now even my cigarettes
don't come down.
I'm afraid you won't have
to wait till the first thing
tomorrow morning.
You'll have to move now,
down to the station.
Not so fast, lieutenant.
This is a tax matter.
He goes with me.
Wait a minute, both of you.
I don't know what
kind of a matter this is,
But he's going with me
for general questioning.
You can question him
at the stationhouse.
I don't want to.
I want to question him
at my field office.
I don't care where
you question him.
Right now,
he's going with me.
Over my broken and
splintered body, he is.
I have no objection
to taking him
Over your broken
and splintered body.
Gentlemen, gentlemen,
let's have cooperation.
Let him go with me.
Good night, Pete.
Good night, Rosalinda.
[crickets chirping]
[Mrs. Amendola crying]
Mama, papa,
what's the matter?
Oh, it's nothing,
Rosalinda.
These gentlemen don't
understand where we're
getting our money from.
So I'm going downtown
and explaining it.
You stay here with mother.
Is there anything
I can do,
Mr. Amendola?
Oh, yeah.
Pardon us
a moment, will you?
Look, Pete,
I don't know how long
I'm gonna be gone.
Kinda keep an eye
on things around here
till I get back, will you?
Oh, sure, sure.
But there's trouble.
Is it serious?
There's nothing to it.
With time off
for good behavior,
I may only get life.
All right, gentlemen,
whose car do I go in?
(all)
mine.
[all bickering]
[sniffs]
I smell smoke.
(Rosalinda)
so do I.
But, dad, Mr. Amendola's
in serious trouble.
Maybe the $2,000
would help him.
You've got to
give it to him.
I think you should.
After all, Mr. Amendola
helped Pete.
Helped him how?
To make an idiot
out of himself
by giving him $2,000
For that crook mulligan.
I won't do it!
I won't give
Amendola one penny.
Let him fry in his own fat.
He belongs in jail anyhow.
But, dad,
this is important.
Frank, you're
a hard-hearted,
money-hoarding--
Tell it to him.
I'm going upstairs,
Where I don't have to
listen to either one of you.
[fire crackling]
Help! Help,
I'm choking!
[Mr. Dingle gasping]
(Pete)
don't worry, dad.
Come on, dad.
(Frank)
no, I gotta get my money!
Forget your money.
It's in a hole
behind the bed.
Frank, Frank,
please!
Mom, I've got him.
Frank!
The money!
I want to get the money!
Let me go!
My money!
[all chattering loudly]
The polar bear rug
with the radio inside!
I'll miss
the Jimmy Durante show.
(Rosalinda)
here it is, papa!
[man chattering on radio]
[sirens blaring]
[whistle blowing]
Thousands of dollars.
It's all gone.
Heaven knows
you deserve it,
Frank dingle.
Are we insured, pa?
Heck, no. Those chiselers
don't get any
of my money, no sir.
Good heavens,
I'm not insured!
[crying]
You have a very
smart father.
He trusts nobody but
the hole behind the bed.
Oh, Pete, I'm so glad
you're all right.
Thousands of dollars
burning right now.
Brand-new,
crisp $100 bills.
He put them in a hole
behind his bed.
(Frank)
every Thursday, $1,500.
Now it's all gone.
[Frank sobbing]
"Rosalinda needs
shoes," huh?
Now, pull yourself
together, Mr. Dingle.
I'll rebuild the house.
It'll be better than new.
You will?
I don't know
what to say.
Oh, it's perfectly
all right, Mrs. Dingle.
Why, anything to help
a good neighbor.
The way I see it,
now this is very definitely
only a tax matter.
This makes things
much simpler.
What do you mean, "simple"?
Who owes the tax?
Amendola, or this other guy?
Well, naturally, the...
Oh, I guess
Amendola owes it.
I don't know.
They both had incomes.
Maybe they both owe us.
Well, how do you figure?
It was this other
fellow's income.
Sure. Amendola was
only innocently using
the other guy's money.
It was like a gift.
In that case, this man
not only owes income tax,
But he'll have to
pay us gift tax, too.
As far as I'm concerned,
the local law is
no longer interested.
Looks like
it's out of
my jurisdiction, too.
It's too involved for me.
I'm gonna forget
all about it
till March 15.
What did you find?
Nothing but a dead squirrel.
Why, he isn't dead.
He's just overcome by smoke.
All he needs
is a little fresh air.
Wonder what he was
doing in the house.
That's the place for
a little squirrel to be.
[twittering]
(Joe)
thanks for the lift.
(driver)
ok.
Rupert.
Rupert.
Rupert!
♪♪ [playing concertina]
[Rupert squeaking]
[laughs]
Ah, my good old Rupert.
Oh, you haven't changed a bit.
[sniffing]
You smell
a little smoky, though.
Now, tell me, how was it?
How did the other
squirrels treat you?
Were they good?
Oh, oh. I've got
good news for you.
I got a job with
a circus, and we start
in 2 weeks in Hoboken.
Me and 2 seals.
[crowd cheering]
♪♪ [playing concertina]
[audience applauds]
[audience cheering]
Greetings,
Mr. And Mrs. Dingle.
Mr. Amendola.
For your new home,
Mrs. Dingle.
Oh, thank you.
Go ahead, papa.
Make your speech,
papa.
Oh, uh, Mr. Dingle.
Like a caterpillar
has its cocoon,
Like a bird has its nest,
Like the worm has its, uh,
Apple, believe me,
It's a pleasure
to present you
With the key
to your new home.
Mr. Amendola.
You're the finest,
the noblest,
the most generous--
Oh, I wouldn't
say that, Mr. Dingle.
But I'm glad he did.
I'm overwhelmed.
I can't find words enough--
Words, words.
What are words?
If it'll make
you any happier,
Mr. Dingle,
I'll even carry you
across the threshold.
Thank you, Mr. Amendola.
[all laughing]
Thank you.
Our old home, Frank.
Oh, and it's nicer
than before.
I'm glad you like it.
My little wife
crocheted the doilies,
But I'll have to take
credit for the curtains.
I would have done
a much better job,
Only my pinking shears
were dull.
[doorbell ringing]
Pete!
Mulligan.
Why, you dirty,
double-crossing--
No, no, now,
wait a minute.
Wait a minute.
Let me go.
We're rich,
Pete, rich!
The oil is coming
like a geyser.
What?
The well came in?
[horn honking]
Rosie, come down here,
quick!
Phil!
[Phil chattering inaudibly]
You don't mean it, Phil?
Hey, look here, Davis!
Pete, listen.
It's your music.
Phil just told me.
What is it?
Be quiet and
listen to the radio.
(man on radio)
...The Melody for 2
orphaned instruments
By Peter dingle.
♪♪ [music playing on radio]
You did this, Rosalinda.
You see, dad,
what I mean
about taking a risk?
Speaking of risks, Pete,
when are you gonna
ask me to marry you?
Right now.
They're gonna
get married.
Rosalinda.
Pete.
Oh.
Amendola, my friend.
Dingle, old pal.
[both laughing]
---the end---
Great Rupert, The (1950)
Moderator: Maskath3