Rope (1948)

[bunniefuu]

Open it.

Don't.

We've got to see

if there's anything-

I know.

But not just yet.

Let's stay this way

for a minute.

Phillip, we don't have

too much time.

It's the darkness that's

got you down. Nobody ever

feels really safe in the dark.

Nobody who's ever a child,

that is. I'll open these,

all right?

There, that's much better.

What a lovely evening.

Pity we couldn't have

done it with the curtains

open in the bright sunlight.

Well... Can't have

everything, can we?

We did do it in daytime.

All right now, Phillip?

Yes.

Good. You better

put those away.

Put them in my checkbook drawer

behind that metal box.

Now... it's a museum piece now.

We really should

preserve it for posterity,

except, it's such good

crystal and I'd hate

to break up the set.

Out of this, David Kentley

had his last drink.

It should have been ginger ale

or even beer.

I've always thought it was out

of character for David to drink

anything as corrupt as whisky.

Out of character for him

to be m*rder*d too.

Yes, wasn't it? But good

Americans usually die young

on the b*ttlefield, don't they?

Well, the Davids of this world

merely occupy space,

which is why he was

the perfect victim

for the perfect m*rder.

'Course, he was

a Harvard undergraduate.

That might make it

justifiable homicide.

He's dead and we've k*lled him.

But he's still here.

In less than eight hours

he'll be resting gently

at the bottom of a lake.

Meanwhile, he's here.

What are you doing?

It's not locked.

All the better.

It's much more dangerous.

The lock's old, it won't work.

I wish it would.

I wish we had him out of here.

I wish it were somebody else.

It's a trifle late for that,

don't you think?

Whom would you have preferred?

Kenneth?

I don't know. I suppose anyone

was as good...

or as bad as any other.

You, perhaps. You frighten me.

You always have,

from that very first

day in prep school.

Part of your charm, I suppose.

I-I'm only kidding, Brandon.

I can't take it as well

as you, so I'm turning

on you a little.

That's rather foolish,

isn't it?

Yes, very.

May I have a drink now?

By all means.

This is an occasion.

It calls for champagne.

Champagne?

I put some in the icebox.

When did you put it there?

Just before David arrived.

You were certain it would

come off, weren't you?

Of course.

You know I never did anything

unless I did it perfectly.

I've always wished

for more artistic talent.

Well, m*rder can be an art too.

The power to k*ll

can be just as satisfying

as the power to create.

Phillip, do you realize

we've actually done it,

exactly as we planned?

And not a single thing

has gone wrong. It was perfect.

Yes.

An immaculate m*rder!

We've k*lled

for the sake of danger

and for the sake of k*lling.

We're alive,

truly and wonderfully alive.

Even champagne isn't equal

to us, or the occasion.

I'll take it, though.

You aren't really frightened

any more, are you?

You can't have fear.

Neither of us can.

That's the difference

between us

and the ordinary men.

They talk about committing

the perfect crime

but nobody does it.

Nobody commits a m*rder...

Here.

just for the experiment

of committing it,

nobody except us.

You're not frightened

any more, are you?

No.

Not even of me?

No.

That's good.

You just astound me, as always.

That's even better.

To David, of course.

Brandon, how did you feel?

When?

During it.

I don't know, really.

I don't remember feeling

very much of anything.

Until his body went limp...

and I knew it was over.

And then?

And then... I felt

tremendously exhilarated.

H-How did you feel?

Oh, I-I-

Brandon, you don't think

the party's a mistake, do you?

No, the party's

the finishing touch

to our work.

It's more; it's the signature

of the artist.

Not having it

would be like, uh-

Painting the picture

and not hanging it?

I don't think

that's a very good

choice of words.

It may turn out to be

a little too choice,

thanks to the party.

Oh, rot. This party

will be the most

exciting ever given.

With these people?

Oh, they're a dull crew,

all right.

The Kentleys couldn't

be duller if they tried,

but we did have to have them.

After all, they are David's

mother and father.

That doesn't make

them any easier to talk to.

Don't worry.

Janet'll be buttering

them up, poor girl.

She's banked everything on

hooking David.

Somehow, I don't

think she's going to succeed.

Do you?

No, somehow, I don't.

Well, she can switch back to

Kenneth tonight.

You must admit, it was most

considerate of me,

in view of recent events,

to provi-

Phillip.

What?

Take the other one.

What for?

Never mind. Come with me.

What's this all about?

You'll see. It's brilliant!

What the devil are you doing?

Making our work of art

a masterpiece.

You're going too far.

Why? What do you mean?

I just thought it'd be nice to

have supper in here.

On this.

Isn't it a good idea?

Well, at least this way no one

will try to open it.

I don't think

you appreciate me, Phillip.

I'm beginning to, Brandon.

Well, come on, we don't

have too much time.

Mrs. Wilson will be

coming back soon.

Did you forget to borrow

her key? I might've

known better than to-

I didn't forget.

I have her key.

I told her I lost mine.

Oh, good.

How are you going to

explain this to them?

I'm not.

We've got to have some excuse.

We don't want to leave

our guest of honor

alone during supper.

Brandon, we've got

to have an excuse

for the others.

All right, all right.

Let me think.

Really, you get much too upset

much too easily.

We have a very simple excuse...

right here.

What are you worrying about,

Phillip?

Mr. Kentley's coming mainly

to look at these books.

What could be better than...

to have them out laid out

on the dining room table...

where the poor

old man can easily get at them.

Considerate, aren't we?

Hello? Oh, of course.

You start on the books-

Who is it?

Mrs. Wilson.

Brandon.

Brandon!

What the devil? Don't you have

any more sense than to-

What is it?

Well, go on, yank it out.

I can't.

If Mrs. Wilson were

here, she'd yank

it out for you.

A stupid display like that

in front of somebody else will

be just as good as a confession.

Now, take these and

get ahold of yourself.

If you'd let me

keep the light on,

I'd have seen it.

All right! You're perfect.

We have to be, Phillip.

We agreed there was only one

crime either of us could commit.

The crime of making a mistake.

Being weak is a mistake.

Because it's being human?

Because it's being ordinary.

I won't let either of us do-

You owe me $2.40 for taxis,

including the tip.

If it weren't for the

traffic, I'd have been

here a half hour ago.

It's just as well.

We didn't expect

you back until now.

I went to five stores for

the special p?t? we like.

But the prices- huh!

I couldn't see any reason for

throwing away our good money.

So, I went downtown

to that little delicatessen

where Mr. Cadell goes.

But I tell ya, the next

time we give a party,

I'm only going-

Good evening, Mrs. Wilson.

What, may I ask, is happening

to my table?

We're just moving

the things in here.

Well...

I personally thought

my table was quite lovely.

Oh, it was quite lovely.

But you see, Mr. Kentley

is coming to look at these

old books I had in the chest.

And I'm sure you wouldn't want

the poor old man to have to get

down on his knees to see them.

Well, I think it looks

downright peculiar.

Peculiar?

Very. Particularly

those candlesticks.

They don't belong there.

On the contrary,

I think they suggest

a, a ceremonial altar...

which you can heap

with the foods for

our sacrificial feast.

Hmph, heap is right.

Isn't enough room for me

to set things up properly,

is there, Mr. Phillip?

Oh, you can make it do.

You two'll be the death

of me. What's to be

done with the books?

Lay them on the

dining room table.

It's a crazy idea,

if you ask me.

Well, I have too much to do to

discuss this thoroughly, dear.

I still think it's peculiar.

What's the matter?

I was sure she'd notice.

Notice what?

The rope, of course.

We've got to hide it.

Why?

Why?

Yes, why? It's only

a piece of rope,

An ordinary household

article, why hide it?

It belongs

in the kitchen drawer.

Mrs. Wilson?

Yes?

There's champagne

in the icebox.

We're not giving

them champagne?

We are.

Oh, it's going to be that

kind of party. I'd better

doll up a little.

We only serve champagne

at Mr. Cadell's on very

high occasions.

Matter of fact,

he and I once had a glass

together on my birthday.

Tonight you'll have

an opportunity

to renew that romance.

May I? Mr. Cadell's coming.

Oh, my. Mr. Cadell

is terribly nice.

Rupert's coming?

Yes, I thought I told you.

No, you didn't.

I did enjoy working for

Mr. Cadell. Such a gentleman!

Some people say he's a little

peculiar, but I always thi-

Well, you might let me finish.

I thought you liked Rupert.

I do.

Well, then.

Of all the people on this Earth,

Rupert Cadell is the one man

most likely to suspect.

He's the one man who

might appreciate this from

our angle, the artistic one.

That's what's exciting.

I'm glad it excites you.

It frightens me.

I suggest you keep

your voice down.

It would have been

too easy with the

others and too dull.

As for Rupert, I once

thought of inviting

him to join us.

Why didn't you?

The more the merrier.

Because he hasn't the nerve.

Oh, intellectually,

he could've come along.

He's brilliant.

But he's a too fastidious.

He could've invented,

he could've admired.

He never could have acted.

We're superior. We have

courage, Rupert doesn't.

Mr. Cadell got

a bad leg in the w*r

for his courage.

You've got your sleeve

in the celery, Mr. Phillip.

They're here. Are we ready?

As ready as we'll ever be.

Don't you be so busy

at that piano that you don't eat

anything. Getting too thin.

And don't you let them

gobble up that pate

before you have any.

Let's hope it's a success.

Oh, my tray.

Take it in the kitchen.

I'll answer the door.

There wouldn't be this

last minute hustle bustle

if you'd kept my table-

Now the fun begins.

Hello, come in.

How are you, Brandon?

Fine. Just put your hat there.

Thank you.

It's been quite awhile.

Yes, that's why I sounded

so stupid on the phone.

Surprised, I guess.

Hello, Kenneth.

Good to see you.

You too.

Been up to much lately?

Oh, nothing to speak of. You?

Trying to get ready for exams.

I always have to start cramming

before everybody else.

Am I the first?

You are.

Why is it I'm always

too early at parties?

Probably because

you're always on time.

Mrs. Wilson, champagne.

It isn't someone's

birthday, is it?

Don't look so worried,

Kenneth. It's really

almost the opposite.

The opposite?

Phillip's bidding the world

a temporary farewell tonight.

I'm driving him

up to Connecticut

after the party.

Where are you going?

Just to Brandon's mother's

place for a few weeks.

I'm to be locked up.

What?

To make sure he practices

six hours a day. I've finally

wangled a debut for him.

Town Hall, at that.

That's wonderful.

I hope you knock 'em dead.

Thank you.

Mmm. Most decorative.

Think so?

Hey.

What is it?

I feel pretty honored.

Oh? Why?

It looks like a pretty small

farewell party.

Well, we're really

k*lling two birds

with one stone.

The party's also

for Mr. Kentley.

David's father?

Yes.

Is David going to be here?

Of course.

Who else is coming?

No one you don't know, if

that's what's bothering you.

The Kentleys, Janet Walker-

Janet.

Yes. I thought you'd be glad

to see her.

Won't you be?

Brandon, Janet and I

are all washed up.

Didn't you know?

I'm sorry, I didn't.

You knew, Phillip.

Oh, I'd heard vague rumors.

But I never pay attention

to that sort of thing.

I wish you had.

Why?

Janet and David are-

Hello, Mrs. Wilson.

May I?

Help yourself.

Cheer up. I have the feeling

your chances with the young lady

are better than you think.

What do you mean?

Janet!

Hello, ducks. Angel!

Be careful of my hair,

it took hours.

You smell dreamy.

What is it?

That swill you gave

me last Christmas.

I knew I had good taste.

You do, you look lovely.

I won't by the time

it's all paid for.

Was that funny?

I never know when

I'm being funny.

Whenever I try to be,

I lay the b*mb of all time.

Phillip, sweet.

Hello.

What's this rumor I hear

about you and Town Hall?

I bet you're going to play

a foul trick on all of us

and become...

horribly famous.

I believe you've met.

Hello, Ken.

Hello, Jan.

That was fascinating,

wasn't it?

I seem to have run down.

What would you say

to some champagne?

"Hello, champagne."

You see what I mean

about trying to be funny?

How've you been, Ken?

Fine, thanks.

How's the new job?

What are you doing?

Writing that dreary column on

how to keep the body beautiful.

For whom this time?

An untidy little magazine

known as Allure.

Thanks, chum.

Oh, isn't that painting new?

Yes, it is. Do you like it?

Well, what is it?

New young American primitive.

I have a new young American

sister. She's only three and

her stuff is really primitive.

You dirty dog.

Why?

Didn't I notice another

new one in the foyer?

I don't think so. Which?

This.

I could really strangle you.

What have I done now?

At times, your sense

of humor is a little

too malicious, chum.

What are you chattering about?

Why did you invite Kenneth?

Why not?

You know perfectly

well why not.

We called it quits ages

ago and I'm practically

engaged to his best friend.

David?

Yes, David.

Which makes everything

just ginger-peachy.

I'm sorry, but it is difficult

trying to keep up

with your romances.

After me came Kenneth

and now it's David.

Why the switch from Kenneth

to David, anyway?

I think he's nicer.

Well, he's certainly richer.

That's a new low

even for you, chum.

Gave me a "D" in conduct.

How's your drink doing?

All right.

How many years has it been

since I said, "Oh, it tickles."

and don't you tell me.

I hear Rupert's coming.

He was invited,

but you never know.

I hope he does. How is he?

Who is he?

Rupert Cadell, our housemaster

at prep school.

Housemaster for you three

little dears?

Four little dears.

He tried to teach David too.

Rupert's a publisher now.

Maybe he can give me a job.

Rupert only publishes

books he likes,

usually philosophy.

Oh. Small print,

big words, no sales.

Right.

Rupert's extremely radical.

Do you know that he selects

his books on the assumption...

that people can not only read

but actually can think.

Curious fellow, but I like him.

You always did.

Those bull sessions

you and Rupert used

to have at school.

Brandon would sit

up till all hours

at the master's feet.

Brandon at someone's feet!

Who is this Rupert?

He used to tell you

the weirdest things.

What sort of things?

I suppose Kenneth means

Rupert's impatience

with social conventions.

For example, he thinks m*rder

is a crime for most men, but-

A privilege for the few.

Yes.

A privilege for the few?

It's all right, Mrs. Wilson.

I'll answer the door.

Oh, Mr. Kentley.

So glad you could come.

Thank you, Brandon.

Mrs. Kentley isn't well, so

I took the liberty of bringing

my sister-in-law, Mrs. Atwater.

Delighted to have you.

Delighted to come.

I've been in New York

two weeks. Alice has been

ill almost the whole time,

and Henry is forever cataloging

his library.

Oh, no, Anita.

Occasionally I even

read one of my books.

But I'm on a visit.

This is just my second party.

I suppose it's only fair-

Let me take your things.

I'm sorry to hear

Mrs. Kentley's so ill.

It's just a cold.

Colds can be very dangerous

this time of the year.

I hope Mrs. Kentley's

staying in bed with

lots of fruit juice.

She is, thank you.

Well, that'll do the trick.

Colds dangerous, in this heat?

I don't understand that.

Exactly two years

ago this summer

I had one myself.

I was down for three weeks.

The doctors were-

Excuse me.

This way, Mrs. Atwater.

...particularly

at parties.

Particularly at this one.

This is over my head.

David!

Uh, no, you've made a mistake.

This is Kenneth Lawrence.

Oh, I'm so sorry.

That's all right, Anita.

Kenneth is often mistaken...

for David, even by people

who aren't nearsighted.

We haven't had much opportunity

to observe the resemblance

lately, my boy.

Haven't been studying,

have you?

I've been tryin' to.

Oh, dear. The resemblance

is only physical.

I believe you both know

Miss Walker.

Janet, my dear.

I finished working

out your horoscope

just before we came.

Oh, tell.

The stars are very kind.

They indicate a marriage

very soon...

to a tall,

fair-haired young man

with a very lovely father.

I told you that a week ago.

I suppose you did.

But the stars confirm it.

Wonderful.

Mrs. Atwater, may I present

Mr. Phillip Morgan?

How do you do?

Oh, you've hurt your hand.

Oh, it's nothing,

just a little cut.

What happened?

The glass was cracked

and it broke, that's all.

May I get you some champagne?

Oh, I should adore some.

Daddy used to

have a glass every

morning at 11:00.

But of course,

Henry doesn't like it.

Mr. Kentley, may I get

you some?

I'd prefer a little Scotch

with a lot of water.

Is David here?

I expected him

to come with you.

He called and said

that he'd meet us here.

Where did he call from?

Our maid spoke to him.

He was at the club, studying

for his examinations.

Uh, tennis.

The trouble with David is,

he doesn't have to study.

He's too bright.

Well, David does all right,

very much so.

Thank you.

How's Mrs. Kentley?

As usual, it's a

cold this time.

I hope David arrives

soon. She wants

him to call her.

David's her only child.

He's my only child too,

but I'm willing

to let him grow up.

Why don't I call and tell her

he's been detained?

No, you mustn't pamper her.

David might

have stopped to see her.

Mr. Kentley?

May I use the phone?

Of course. It's in the bedroom.

How cozy.

Aren't you ready for another?

I will be.

I am, thank you.

What a charming young man.

I wish David saw more of him.

Yes. I'll go and call.

Kenneth, there's

too much air in your glass.

Mine's fine, thanks.

Would you mind taking

this in to Janet?

Sure. Why?

No particular reason. I thought

you'd like to take it in to her.

She's in the bedroom, phoning.

Then you'd like

David to walk in.

No, that'd be

too much of a shock.

When were you born?

July 14.

Can you really tell my future?

Of course, I'm only an amateur

astrologer.

I'm sure you're very good.

I do my best.

I suppose you want to

know if your concert

will be a success?

Yes, I do.

Let me see now.

You were born

on the 14th of July.

You're Cancer, the crab.

You're a moon child.

You're very much

influenced by the moon.

May I see your hands?

You don't remember

the hour of your birth,

by any chance?

No.

Good fingers. Strong, artistic.

What about the concert?

These hands will

bring you great fame.

Well, I consider myself

a very fortunate man today.

I'm on hand

for the grand opening.

Of what?

Of your collection,

so to speak.

Oh, yes, of course.

Are you going to play?

How lovely.

Your wife sends her love.

David wasn't there?

No. He'll probably

be here in a minute, though.

Your touch has

improved, Phillip.

Rupert!

I was beginning to think

you weren't going to show.

You know me better than that.

Mrs. Atwater, may I present

Mr. Rupert Cadell?

Delighted.

Thank you.

Mr. Kentley.

How do you do, Mr. Kentley?

The housemaster at Somerville?

I used to be.

Then you must have taught

my son, David.

You flatter me.

How do you do?

Hello, chum.

Oh, Miss Walker.

How'd you know?

Brandon spoke of you.

Did he do me justice?

Do you deserve

justice? Well!

Well, little Kenneth Lawrence,

how you've grown.

Hello, eh-

Oh, now come, Kenneth,

school's out. You can say it.

Rupert, you're the same

as ever. It's awfully

good to see you again.

Why?

Uh, well, -

Don't mind me. Very pleased

to see you again.

And that bears a

curious resemblance

to champagne.

It is.

Very good champagne.

What's the occasion?

I told you on the phone.

It began as a little party for

Mr. Kentley so he could look

over those first editions.

It turned out Phillip and

I were going to the country-

You told me that too.

Did I?

Yeah.

I thought I'd make it sort of

a farewell for Phillip.

Therefore, champagne.

Uh, yes.

I see.

Well, it- I-It's true.

You always did stutter when

you were excited.

I-I guess I'm always excited

when I give a party.

Really?

Mr. Cadell!

Oh, Mrs. Wilson.

Well, what have we here?

I got that special

pate you like.

Oh, I don't like it any more.

Oh, no!

No, I'm just teasing.

You're awful.

Thank you.

You'd better get along with

the carving.

The rest of the

things'll be here

in two shakes.

Oh, Mr. Brandon! I found it.

I haven't the least notion

what she lost.

Wonderful Mrs. Wilson.

I may marry her.

It looks heavenly.

I hope David gets here soon.

Where is David?

I haven't the faintest idea.

He's so late, Mr. Kentley's

getting annoyed.

And you?

Me? I'm hungry.

Brandon, exactly what is this?

A "cassone" I got in Italy.

No, I mean why are

we eating off of it?

Oh, I've turned the

dining room into a library.

Trust you to find

a new use for a chest.

One was always turning up

in the bedtime stories

he told in prep school.

"The Mistletoe Bough," that

was your favorite tale,

wasn't it?

What was that one about?

I don't remember

how it started.

It was about a

lovely, young girl-

She was a bride-to-be.

On her wedding day,

she playfully hid herself

in a chest.

That's right.

Unfortunately, it

had a spring lock.

Fifty years later,

they found her skeleton.

I don't think I'll get

that playful.

Please help yourselves.

Talking of skeletons,

have you seen that

new thing at the Strand?

Yes, I adored it.

Did you? Good.

I didn't like

the new girl much.

Definitely Scorpio.

I didn't like her either,

but her clothes

were fabulous.

Simply divine!

Absolute heaven!

I must see it.

The man I have a passion for

is James Mason.

Is he good?

Absolutely terrific!

So attractively sinister!

Taurus, the bull, you know.

Very obstinate.

Really?

I have a confession to make.

I think I like Mason

as much as Errol Flynn.

I'll take Cary Grant, myself.

Oh, so will I!

Capricorn, the goat.

He leaps divine!

So much "oomph."

Yes.

Absolutely.

He was thrilling in that

new thing with Bergman.

What was it called?

"Something of the something."

No, that's the other one.

This was just plain "Something."

It was sort of, you know.

It's right on

the tip of my tongue.

Mine too.

It was just plain "Something."

I adored it.

And Bergman!

She's the Virgo type!

Like all these, you know.

Oh, I think she's lovely.

I once went to the movies.

I saw Mary Pickford.

I was mad about her!

Didn't you love her?

The Virgo type,

like all of these.

What did you see her in?

I don't quite recall.

"The Something Something."

Or was it just

plain "Something"?

Something rather like that.

I don't believe you ever went.

If I were you, I'd go

easy on the pate, dear.

Calories.

Come on, don't be polite.

Phillip, would you mind

helping Mrs. Atwater?

I'd be glad to.

Sit down, Mrs. Atwater.

I'll bring it to you.

Thank you so much, dear boy.

I must apologize for David.

I can't think

what's keeping him.

He's only in town

for the weekend and

David is a popular man.

Here, let me help.

White or dark?

A little of both on this

for Mrs. Atwater.

What about you?

I don't eat it.

How q*eer!

I never heard of anyone

who didn't eat chicken.

Did you, Brandon?

Oh, you probably did.

Why don't you eat it, Phillip?

I just don't.

There must be a reason.

Freud says there's a reason

for everything, even me.

There's no reason, Janet.

As I remember,

you have a very funny reason.

Doesn't he, Brandon?

Yes.

I knew there had to

be one. What is it?

It's nothing too much.

- It's fascinating.

- Come on, Brandon, please.

It happened about

three years ago in Connecticut.

Mother has a place there.

We were going

to have chicken so we

walked over to the farm.

It was a lovely Sunday morning

in late spring.

Across the valley,

the church bells were ringing.

In the yard, Phillip was

doing likewise to the necks

of two or three chickens.

Oh, dear!

It was a task he usually

performed competently.

On this particular morning,

his touch was, perhaps,

a trifle too delicate;

because one of the subjects

suddenly rebelled.

Like Lazarus, he rose-

That's a lie!

Phillip!

There isn't a word of truth

in the whole story.

I never strangled

a chicken in my life!

Look, Phillip-

I never strangled a chicken,

and you know it.

Forgive me, but it

seemed very funny...

you two being so intense

about an old, dead chicken.

Sorry. We were ridiculous

and very rude.

I apologize for both of us

and the story.

Well!

Is it all over?

I'm afraid so, Rupert.

Oh, what a pity. In another

moment, you might have been

strangling each other...

instead of a chicken.

Mr. Cadell, really!

But a man's honor was at stake.

Personally,

I think a chicken is as

good a reason for m*rder...

as a blonde, a mattress

full of dollar bills,

or any of the customary,

unimaginative reasons.

You don't really

approve of m*rder,

Rupert, if I may.

You may, and I do.

Think of the problems

it would solve:

unemployment, poverty,

standing in line

for theater tickets.

I must say, I've had a

perfectly dreadful time...

getting tickets for

that new musical,

what's it called?

You know.

"The Something,"

with what's her name?

My dear Mrs. Atwater,

careful application of

the trigger finger...

and a pair of seats

in the first row is yours

for the sh**ting.

Have you had any difficulty

getting into our

velvet rope restaurants?

Frightful!

A very simple matter.

A flick of the knife, madam,

and if you'll kindly

step this way-

Oh, no, step over

the head waiter's body.

Thank you, and

here's your table.

Rupert,

you're the end.

There's a hotel clerk

I could flick a knife at!

Oh, no, sorry.

Knives may not be used

on hotel employees.

The are in the "death by

slow t*rture" category,

Oh.

along with bird lovers,

small children,

and tap dancers.

Landlords, of course,

are another matter.

You seeking an apartment?

Call on our Miss Sash Weight...

of the blunt

instrument department.

What a divine idea!

If it suits

your purpose, merely-

But then we'd all be

murdering each other.

Oh, no.

After all, m*rder is,

or should be, an art;

not one of the

seven lively, perhaps,

but an art nevertheless.

As such, the privilege

of committing it

should be reserved...

for those few who are

really superior individuals.

And the victims,

inferior beings whose lives

are unimportant anyway.

Obviously. Mind you, I don't

hold with the extremists...

who feel there should be

open season for m*rder

all year round.

No, personally,

I would prefer to have...

"Cut a Throat Week."

Oh.

Or "Strangulation Day."

Probably a symptom of

approaching senility,

but I must confess...

I really don't appreciate

this morbid humor.

The humor was unintentional.

You're not serious

about these theories.

Of course he is.

You're both pulling my leg.

Why do you think that?

The notion that m*rder is an art

which a few superior beings

should be allowed to practice-

In season!

Now I know you're not serious.

But I am.

I'm a very serious fellow.

Then may I ask,

who is to decide if a human

is inferior, and therefore

a suitable victim for m*rder?

The few who are privileged

to commit m*rder.

Who might they be?

Oh, myself, Phillip,

possibly Rupert.

I'm sorry, Kenneth,

you're out.

Gentlemen, I'm serious.

So are we.

The few are those men

of such intellectual and

cultural superiority...

that they're above the

traditional moral concepts.

Good and evil, right

and wrong were invented

for the average man;

the inferior man,

because he needs them.

You agree with Nietzsche and

his theory of the superman.

Yes, I do.

So did Hitler.

Hitler was a paranoiac savage.

All fascist supermen

were brainless murderers.

I'd hang any who were left.

But then, you see,

I'd hang them first

for being stupid.

I'd hang all incompetents

and fools. There are

far too many in the world.

Then you should hang me.

I'm so stupid, I don't know

whether you're serious or not.

In any case, I'd rather

not hear any more of your...

contempt for humanity,

and for the standards

of a world that

I believe is civilized.

Civilized?

Yes.

"Civilization" is hypocrisy.

Perhaps.

- Well, I'm sure Rupert

has the intelligence-

- Now, gentlemen-

Please, Brandon, we've had

just about enough!

Phillip, where did you put

those books you set out

for Mr. Kentley?

I'd like to see them myself,

if I may.

Of course. They're

in the dining room.

Mr. Kentley, wouldn't you

like to see the books now?

I apologize, sir, again.

I'm afraid I let myself get

carried away.

That's quite all right, my boy.

I think it's a good

collection, the first

editions, I mean.

Yes, I'd like to see them.

May I use the telephone?

I'd like to talk to my wife.

She may have some word

of David.

Of course.

It's this way.

Uh, Brandon?

Yes.

You were pushing

your point rather hard.

You aren't planning

to do away with a few

inferiors, by chance?

I'm a creature of whim.

Who knows?

Oh, I see.

I think he's

definitely Scorpio.

Uh, Mrs. Atwater,

wouldn't you like

to see the books?

Oh, I'd love it.

Do you know, when I was

a girl, I used to read

quite a bit.

We all do strange things

in our childhood.

Kenneth, why don't you

switch on the radio or

play some records?

A little atmospheric music

goes a long way.

He is such a sly,

little devil, isn't he?

Bringing us back together

again with sweet music!

Don't let it get you.

He's always doing

something like this.

I'm going in the other room.

To see the books?

No, to let Brandon see me.

Do you care what he thinks?

I know what he thinks!

He thinks I threw you over

because David has

a bigger bank account.

Then, why do you go?

Because-

Because I'm embarrassed

at being here with you.

Oh, Janet!

Never thought

I could be, did you?

Honestly? No.

Well, I am and

I don't like it one bit.

I should think you'd

have the decency to be

embarrassed yourself.

Why?

Well-

You threw me over,

chum, remember?

My, wouldn't friend Brandon

love to know that?

What's the matter?

Nothing. I'm just thinking.

What about?

Female vanity.

Well, I'm also

embarrassed because-

Go on.

Well, you and David used to be

such good friends.

You're not and it's my fault.

I'm such an idiot girl.

No, you're not.

Then I'm certainly giving

a good imitation of one.

Why must I try and be

so smart with everyone

but David?

Don't you kid with David too?

I relax with David,

thanks to you.

To me?

Yes.

That-That grim Sunday

at Harvard,

when you called it quits,

David took me for a walk.

My chin was about

an inch from the ground.

I just couldn't be

the g*y girl.

I just relaxed and

let everything pour out.

The real, real me stuff.

Did you hear that phrase?

I hear myself saying

things like that and-

Oh, where's David?

You know,

I'm not very smart.

Why?

I never realized you were-

Brandon and his

atmospheric music.

You are in love with David,

aren't you?

Yes.

I don't get it.

Get what?

Brandon made

a crack when I got here.

He implied I'd have a chance...

with you again because David

would be out of the running.

Wait. You mean, before

I got here Brandon knew

we had broken-

He even knew about

you and David.

What?

Kenneth, he pretended

to be completely ignorant

when I told him.

What's going on here?

I don't know,

But I'm going to find out

once and for all!

Brandon?

Yes?

May I see you for a moment?

Certainly.

Why can't he keep his hands

off people?

Well?

Just exactly what

are you up to, chum?

Up to getting you coffee.

Let's dispense with the charm!

I'd like to know why you had

the gall to tell Kenneth...

he wouldn't have to worry

much longer about David and me?

I don't think that's

precisely what I said.

It's what you implied!

I want to know why.

Some women are quite charming

when they're angry.

Unfortunately, you're not.

Cut that out!

Well, chivalry rears

its ugly head!

I don't believe David's coming!

Wait and see.

I don't have to.

He's never this late.

If something had come up,

he'd have phoned.

You deliberately arranged it

so that he wouldn't come.

How clever of me!

I might have known you

couldn't just give a party

for Mr. Kentley.

You'd have to add something

that appealed to your

warped sense of humor.

I hope you've

enjoyed yourself, Brandon.

I haven't!

He's really impossible!

You shouldn't let him

upset you.

Something gone wrong, Brandon?

No.

Janet has a talent for

being bothersome at times.

However, I suppose I'd better-

Uh, what did you mean,

"something gone wrong"?

You always plan your parties

so well, it's odd to have

anything go wrong.

She seems to be missing David.

As a matter of fact, I'm

beginning to miss him myself.

Aren't we all?

Two desserts, Mr. Cadell?

One for you and

one for me, my love.

Ah, Mr. C.

The others don't seem to be

in the mood for ice cream.

Well, they could all do

with a little cooling off.

My, it's a peculiar party,

not that that surprises me.

Why not?

I could have predicted it

this morning.

Both of them must have

got up out of the

wrong side of the bed.

They've been in

a state all day!

Mr. Brandon says

he's always in a state

when he gives a party.

It's the first time

I've seen it. Usually, he

lets me prepare everything...

in my own way; but, look

at this, the chicken's

hardly been touched!

What was so different today?

Oh, what wasn't!

Mr. Brandon was in the

maddest rush to clean up

and get the table set.

Oh, it looked so lovely!

But when I was whisking out

to do the shopping,

he suddenly told me to take

the whole afternoon for it.

The whole afternoon,

after that mad rush

in the morning!

Did he say why?

No, just a whim, I suppose.

But when I came back, he and

Mr. Phillip were going at it

hammer and tongs.

Oh. What about?

Mr. Cadell, even if I did know,

do you think I'd tell?

Well, I hope so.

Not me. I'm like the grave.

Look at this mess!

Just makes double the work.

After I have this cleaned off,

I have to clear

all those books off

the dining room table,

bring them here, put them back

in the chest, which is where

they were in the first place.

Why did you serve

from here, anyway?

It wasn't my idea.

I had everything laid out

in the dining room and

it was just beautiful.

On this thing, there isn't

half the room.

Is she still harping on

her table and how awkward

it is to serve from this?

It's much more convenient.

This way, people don't have

to go all the way into...

the dining room to get food

and come all the way back

to eat it.

Seems to me they've gone

in there now for their

dessert and coffee.

Mrs. Wilson, please

serve the guests.

Don't lecture them.

We did get up on the

wrong side of the bed,

didn't we?

I'm in quite an

embarrassing position.

How do you mean?

I seem to be the only one

having a good time.

You and Mrs. Atwater.

What's going on, Phillip?

Would you mind

turning that off?

Sorry.

I don't like to play

with light in my eyes.

You know, Phillip,

I get quite

intrigued when people

don't answer questions.

I'm quite curious.

Did you ask me a question?

Yes, Phillip,

I asked you a question.

Well, what was it?

I asked you what is

going on here.

A party.

Yes, but a rather

peculiar party.

What's it all about, Phillip?

What's what all about?

Stop playing "crime

and punishment," Rupert.

If you want to know something

come out with it!

Temper, temper.

Don't stop.

I'd like a drink.

I'll get it for you.

keep playing. What

would you like, Scotch?

No, brandy.

You're very fond of

that tune, aren't you?

You know, I wish I could

come straight out with

what I want to know.

Unfortunately,

I don't know anything.

I merely suspect.

I said that-

I heard you.

This all right?

Thank you.

That's fine.

Do you use this?

Sometimes.

I thought only beginners did.

I must say-

All right, Rupert,

I'll ask you.

What do you suspect?

Oh, I've forgotten.

Where's David, Phillip?

I don't know.

Why?

Brandon knows.

Does he? Not that I know of.

Doesn't he?

Oh, come now.

I don't. Why don't

you ask Brandon?

I have,

but he's too busy

maneuvering the other

two points of the triangle.

What for, Phillip?

just what is Brandon

trying to do...

with Janet and Kenneth?

What are you laughing at?

Nothing.

What is it? Am I so far

off the track?

There's nothing

going on at all, Rupert.

You're, uh,

more than usually allergic

to the truth tonight, Phillip.

That's the second time

you haven't told it.

Thanks.

When was the first?

When you said you never

strangled a chicken.

You're confused.

Brandon dreamt that up...

for the sake of

a very unfunny joke.

No, he didn't.

No, he didn't, Phillip.

And if you'll think back

carefully, you'll realize

that I know he didn't.

About a year ago,

I was up at the farm.

Remember?

One morning I saw you

display your handiwork.

You're quite a good

chicken-strangler, as I recall.

Well, I-I just meant that

Brandon's story wasn't true.

I didn't mean I hadn't

k*lled any chickens.

That's what you said.

Well, I didn't think it was

a suitable topic of conversation

while we were eating!

You could have said that.

All right, I didn't!

We're not eating now.

Why'd you lie to me?

I don't like to talk about-

About what, strangling-

I can't play with that thing!

I want you to have them.

It's extremely generous of you.

I know you appreciate

first editions far more

than I, Mr. Kentley.

It's very nice of you, Brandon.

What's wrong?

You and Phillip

must come to dinner soon.

What's wrong?

Don't you want Mr. Kentley

to have the books?

No!

I don't care if

he has them, I just-

What?

I think it's a clumsy way

of tying them up.

David never had trouble

taking care of himself.

But I can't

understand this.

Whenever he's been detained,

he's telephoned.

He's always been

after to me to be punctual.

As well he might.

You wouldn't know me these days.

I'm a new woman;

punctual as a clock.

That's very unfeminine,

my dear.

Perhaps, but I prefer manners

to femininity.

You sound just like Daddy.

I remember once-

Take it easy, Phillip.

Rupert's on to something.

He isn't. Now, let up.

I've got to have a drink.

You've had enough.

Take your hand off my arm!

Don't you ever again tell me

what to do and what not to do.

I don't like it and-

Keep your voice down!

I, uh, hope I didn't

upset Phillip.

No, he's more likely

mixing his drinks.

You seem rather upset yourself.

Do I?

Yes, there's something

upsetting both of you

a great deal,

something that-

Excuse me, sir.

There's a lady phoning

for Mr. Kentley or Mrs. Atwater.

It must be Alice.

I'll talk to her, Henry.

Down the hall to your left,

dear. The first bedroom.

Thank you.

Mr. Kentley, do you

suppose David could be home?

I hope so.

I hate to throw a damper,

but if David was home,

I think he'd be calling

instead of Mrs. Kentley.

Wouldn't you say so, Brandon?

I wouldn't know.

The David I remember

was polite as well as punctual.

He hasn't changed.

If he's not home,

where could he be?

I don't know.

He might be any number of

places, such as the club,

or the Bradleys are

giving a party, or

maybe he went to Janet?s.

Why?

To pick her up after all.

I phoned my place.

He wasn't there?

No. I left

a message but-

We might find out

where he is now...

if we knew where he was

this afternoon.

I haven't the least idea

where he was.

It would help

if we found out.

I suppose so.

He went to the club.

I know he got there.

Why?

Someone phoned from there

with a message that David

would meet us here.

Do you know who

gave the message?

No.

Obviously, David ran into

someone at the club

who changed his plans.

You weren't there this

afternoon, were you, Kenneth?

I wish I had been.

I don't suppose you or Brandon

were, Phillip.

No.

We had

our hands full getting

ready for the party.

There was

a lot to be done.

You know.

Yes, I see. You didn't speak

to David at all today?

No. Why do you ask?

I thought he might

have called to say

he'd be late.

He didn't.

Neither Phillip nor I

have talked to David...

since the day we invited

him to the party.

That's odd.

What do you mean?

I thought I heard David on the

phone to Phillip yesterday morning.

Yes, you did.

I'd forgotten.

Did he call

about the party?

Yes, he wanted to make

sure about the time.

Here, I'll help you with that.

Thank you, Mr. Cadell.

Very good.

That's all right, Mrs. Wilson.

You can put the books back

in the morning.

I didn't have any idea of

coming in in the morning.

I'm afraid you have to.

Just let the books go for now.

Well, all right.

Henry, Alice hasn't had a word

from David. She's frantic.

I better talk to her.

She hung up.

She began to cry so badly.

Oh, Henry, I'm worried.

What did she say?

She's been calling

every place he might be,

not once, but several times.

And now, Henry, she thinks

he may have had an accident.

She wants you to call

the police.

The police?

Oh, no, Anita, I don't

think that's necessary.

David's no longer a child.

I'm quite sure

he's all right. I-

Brandon, I think I'd better

go home. My wife needs me.

This isn't like David. He-

Of course. I understand.

May I go with you,

Mr. Kentley?

Thank you, Janet.

I'll get your things.

Thank you.

Oh, Mr. Kentley, your books.

Oh. Oh, yes.

I can't tell you

how sorry I am.

Would you call me as soon

as you hear from David?

Be glad to.

I'm sure the dear boy

will turn up.

Janet.

Yes?

This is hardly the time,

but I'm very glad

we had that talk.

So am I.

And David will be too.

Good.

Well-

Kenneth, why don't you

come along with us?

Oh, I don't-

Please.

Thanks.

This yours, Janet?

Yes, I'll just carry it.

Oh, thanks.

I'll get my hat.

Oh, going with Janet?

Yes, we're all going together.

What did I predict?

Good night, Mr. Kentley.

I hope Mrs. Kentley's

feeling better very soon.

Thank you.

Call me the moment

you hear from David?

I will.

Say good night to Phillip.

I'll get your hat, Mr. Cadell.

Mrs. Atwater,

thank you for coming.

Thank you for letting me come.

I'm so sorry we have to leave.

Good night.

Oh, that's not yours.

Oh.

Oh- Oh-

I'm very sorry

we had to spoil it.

You couldn't possibly spoil it.

I meant

by leaving so early.

Be careful of

those stairs, Anita.

Here we are.

Thank you, Mrs. Wilson.

Good night, Mr. Cadell.

Oh, you going too?

Yes, I must. Good night.

Good night.

Can I help you with

those books, Mr. Kentley?

Thank you for a lovely evening.

Good night, good night.

It's been charming.

Oh, Phillip, this party

really deserves to go

down in history.

Well, come on, it's over,

and it couldn't have gone

more beautifully.

Yes, it could, without Rupert.

He helped me say

all I wanted to say

to those idiots.

He gave the party

the touch I predicted.

The touch of what?

Prying, snooping or

just plain pumping?

Do you know how busy

he was questioning me?

About what?

Oh, what difference?

You were busy arranging that

other little touch of yours.

What touch?

Tying up the books that way.

Oh, I thought

that was wonderful.

Didn't you like it?

No, I didn't like it one bit.

He'll ruin everything with

your neat little touches.

Be quiet.

Mrs. Wilson's still here.

Determined to get drunk,

aren't you?

I am drunk.

And just as childish

as you were before when

you called me a liar.

You had no business

telling that story.

Why did you lie?

I had to. Have you ever

bothered to understand how

someone else might feel?

I'm not sentimental.

That's not what I mean,

but it doesn't matter.

Nothing matters, except that

Mr. Brandon liked the party.

Mr. Brandon gave the party.

Mr. Brandon had

a delightful evening.

Well, I had a rotten evening.

Keep drinking and you'll

have a worse morning.

At least if I have a hangover,

it'll be all mine.

Y-You know, Phillip,

I've been thinking.

We deserve a real holiday

after it's all over.

Of course, we should

come back here for a few days.

Otherwise, it might look-

I've been praying I'd wake up

and find we hadn't done it yet.

But why?

I'm scared to death,

Brandon. I think we're

going to get caught.

Oh, there's not a chance,

not any more. Why, we're pra-

Is that you, Mrs. Wilson?

Yes. I'll need a key

to get in in the morning...

if you're still driving

up to the farm tonight.

Oh, we're driving up.

You don't look well,

either one of you. Oh, thanks.

I could do with a rest myself,

but I want both of you

to come back in tip-top shape.

We will.

Well, I'm off.

Enjoy yourselves.

Don't forget to write.

And mind your P's and Q's.

Mm-hm.

Who are you calling?

Only the garage.

Hello? This is

Mr. Brandon Shaw.

Would you send my car

around, please? Yes,

right away. Thank you.

We'd... better draw

the curtains.

Who's that?

Brandon, who's that?

Probably the garage man.

Answer it.

There hasn't been time

for him to get here.

Maybe Mrs. Wilson

forgot something. Answer it.

Brandon,

couldn't we pretend

we're not home?

With all these lights on?

Answer it, Phillip.

Who is it?

Brandon... Brandon,

it's Rupert.

What?

He says he left

a cigarette case here.

He wants to come up.

Well, let him come.

But you know he's lying!

He's caught on!

Get back to that phone.

I won't.

Get back to that phone.

Brandon, I can't.

You've got to.

No! He knows!

Shut up.

Rupert? Come on up.

No, uh, course not.

He's just a little tight.

No, but we'll find it

in no time.

Right.

Phillip...

Phillip, listen to me.

Rupert's on his way up now,

and you've got to

pull yourself together.

Phillip, did you hear me?

Come on, have another drink

if you must,

but get hold of yourself

and keep your mouth shut.

It'll be over in five minutes.

I don't know how much,

if anything, Rupert knows,

but I promise you...

he'll be out of here

in five minutes,

one way or the other.

Phillip, for those

five minutes,

you've got to pull

yourself together.

Brandon, Brandon-

Now look, I'm not going

to get caught...

because of you or anyone else.

No one is going

to get in my way now.

Brandon, it's not

loaded, is it?

Sorry to bother you, Brandon.

It's no bother. Come in.

I knew you were

leaving tonight.

I didn't want to be

left without my case.

Hello, Phillip.

Hello.

I didn't mean to

alarm you before.

You didn't alarm him.

Phillip's a little

antisocial tonight.

Oh? I thought-

Any idea where you

left the case?

No, none at all.

Completely unlike me

to forget it, isn't it?

I suppose a psychoanalyst

would say that I didn't

really forget it at all.

I unconsciously left it

because I wanted to come back.

But, uh, why should I

want to come back?

Yes, why?

For the pleasure of our company

or another drink.

That's a good idea. May I

have one for the road?

Of course.

A short one?

No, I'd prefer a long one if

you don't mind.

Phillip, will you

fix Rupert a drink?

Now let me see.

The last I remember

having the case...

was when I was there.

I was just going to open

the chest for Mrs. Wilson

when you came over.

And then what?

I think I, uh-

Wonder where it could be.

Oh, well, here it is

right where I left it.

Gentlemen, I beg your pardon.

I'm very sorry.

I, uh-

Well, may I have

that drink anyway?

Of course.

You really don't mind?

No. Why should we?

Well, you might be-

What?

Tired. You're sure

it's all right?

He said you could have it.

Thank you.

Don't mind Phillip. I'm afraid

he's had a few too many.

Well, why not? Why not?

After all, it was a party.

Well, it's very pleasant to

sit here with a good drink

and good company.

I'm glad.

Please don't let me

be in the way.

Of what?

I know you have things to do.

What do you mean?

Packing, last-minute

odds and ends.

You are driving to Connecticut

tonight, aren't you?

Yes, but we're all packed.

Oh, I see. All ready.

All except one guest,

who must be gotten rid of.

Well, I'll be off...

as, uh, as soon as

I finish my drink.

There's no need

to hurry, Rupert.

Thank you. I, uh, would like

to stay a bit.

Perhaps even see you off.

I always hate to leave a party,

especially when

the evening has been

unusually stimulating...

or strange, like this evening.

What do you mean, "strange"?

Did I say "strange," Brandon?

You often pick words

for sound rather than meaning.

I don't exactly know

what I meant...

unless I was thinking

about David.

What was strange about David?

His not showing up.

You don't think anything

really did happen to him?

What could have?

He could have been

run over or held up.

In broad daylight?

That's right. I'd forgotten.

Yes, it must have been

broad daylight when it happened.

When, uh, what happened?

When whatever did

happen to David.

Nothing, probably.

Still, where is he?

What's your theory?

Mine?

I was considering Janet's

for the moment.

Oh? I didn't know

she had one.

Yes, you do.

I couldn't help

overhearing Janet.

She thinks you kidnapped

David, or did something

to prevent him from coming.

I'm not interested in Janet's

prattle, but you always

interest me, Rupert.

Do you think I, uh,

"kidnapped" David?

It's the sort of mischief

that would have appealed

to you in school...

for the experience,

the excitement, the danger.

But it would be slightly more

difficult to pull off now,

though, don't you think?

Ah, you'd find a way.

How?

I mean, suppose you were I.

How would you get David

out of the way?

You're much better

at this than I am.

What would you do?

Well, if I wanted

to get rid of David,

I'd invite him for

a drink at the club

or some quiet bar,

or better still,

I'd invite him here.

Then no one would

see us together.

That's good. And no witnesses.

Yes, that's right.

Then what?

Well-

Well, let me see.

At the appointed time,

David would arrive.

I'd walk slowly out of the room

into the hall.

I'd greet him, tell him

how fine he's looking

and so forth...

and, uh, take his hat.

Then I'd bring him in here,

make some small talk

to put him at his ease,

probably offer him a drink...

and then he'd sit down.

Yes?

I'd try to make it

all very pleasant,

you understand.

Phillip would probably

play the piano.

Now, as I recall,

David was quite strong.

He'd have to be knocked out.

So I'd move quietly around

behind the chair and hit him

on the head with something.

His body would fall

forward on the floor.

Then where would

you put him?

Well, uh-

Well, let me see.

Well, I think

I'd get Phillip to help me

carry him out of the room,

down the back stairs,

and the two of us would

put him into the car.

You'd be seen.

What?

You said that

if anything did happen,

it must have happened

in broad daylight.

That's right. I'd forgotten.

I'd find someplace

to hide the body until dark.

Yes, you would,

but where, Rupert?

Yes.

Yes, where?

Cat and mouse! Cat and mouse!

Phillip.

Which is the cat

and which is the mouse?

That's enough.

Mind your own business.

That's enough, Phillip.

I told you before,

mind your own business!

It really isn't

any of my business.

I'm not his keeper.

Uh, with him in

this condition, though,

there doesn't seem

to be much point in

your staying, Rupert.

That is, unless

you came back...

to find something besides

your cigarette case.

You mean, for example,

to find if you really

got rid of David.

Yes, that's what I mean.

Oh, you're as

romantic as Janet.

I don't think

you kidnapped David.

I admit Janet put the notion

in my head, but I never

would have mentioned it...

if it weren't that you seem

to be carrying fear of

discovery in your pocket.

What?

That's a g*n, isn't it?

Oh.

That teased my suspicions

more than anything else,

and to tell you the truth,

it really scares me a little.

I'm terribly sorry, Rupert.

I don't blame you,

but-Well, here.

You can relax.

I have to take it

up to the country.

There've been several burglars,

and Mother's a bit on edge.

Uh, finished, Phillip?

All right.

Did you hear what Rupert

said about the g*n?

He thought-

It's odd the way one can

pyramid simple facts

into wild fantasies.

We all do it,

don't we, Phillip?

Yes.

Particularly after a few drinks.

Uh, how is yours, Rupert?

I think I'll be running along.

Phillip, you'll feel better

once you get out in the air.

I don't think there'll be

much traffic. We ought to

make good time.

It's a lovely night.

You'll be driving up

in good weather.

I almost wish

I were going with you.

It might be rather exciting.

Driving at night always is,

but driving with you

and Phillip now...

might have an additional

element of, uh, suspense.

You were right, Phillip.

Those books were tied clumsily.

He's got it. He's got it!

Phillip.

He knows. He knows. He knows.

All right, easy.

I'll take care of it.

No, you won't.

I'd just as soon

k*ll you as k*ll him. Sooner!

This is what you wanted:

somebody else to know.

Somebody else to see

how brilliant you are,

just like at school.

I told you he'd find out,

but you had to have him here.

Shut up!

No! You made me

do it, and I hate you.

I hate both-

Stupid babbling drunk.

I'm sorry, Rupert.

It's all right.

It's all right. If you

really want to k*ll,

you don't miss,

not at that range.

Of course he didn't

want to k*ll you.

He didn't know what

he was doing, any more than

he knew what he was saying.

He's becoming an

alcoholic, Rupert-

Brandon, will you step

over there, please?

Phillip's drunk, Rupert.

Surely you don't take

those nightmare ideas

seriously-

Brandon. Brandon, I'm tired.

And in a way,

I'm frightened too, but I

don't want to fence any more.

What are you going to do?

I don't want to,

but I'm gonna look

inside that chest.

Are you crazy?

I hope so. With all my

heart, I hope I'm crazy.

This has nothing

to do with you.

I've got to

look inside that chest.

All right! Go ahead and look.

I hope you like what you see.

Oh, no. No!

Rupert-

I couldn't believe it was true.

Rupert, please-

Please what?

Listen to me. Let me explain.

Do you think you

can explain that?

Yes, to you I can,

because you'll understand.

Understand?

Rupert, remember

the discussion we had

before with Mr. Kentley?

Yes.

Remember we said,

"the lives of inferior

beings are unimportant"?

Remember we said-

we've always said, you and I-

that moral concepts

of good and evil

and right and wrong...

don't hold for

the intellectually superior.

Remember, Rupert?

Yes, I remember.

That's all we've done.

That's all Phillip

and I have done.

He and I have lived what

you and I have talked.

I knew you'd understand,

because you have to,

don't you see? You have to.

Brandon-

Brandon, till this very moment,

this world and

the people in it...

have always been dark

and incomprehensible to me,

and I've tried to clear

my way with logic...

and superior intellect.

And you've thrown

my own words right back

in my face, Brandon.

You were right to.

If nothing else, a man

should stand by his words.

But you've given my words

a meaning that I never

dreamed of!

And you've tried

to twist them...

into a cold, logical excuse

for your ugly m*rder!

Well, they never

were that, Brandon,

and you can't make them that.

There must have been

something deep inside you

from the very start...

that let you do this thing,

but there's always been

something deep inside me

that would never let me do it...

and would never let me

be a party to it now.

What do you mean?

I mean that tonight you've

made me ashamed of every

concept I ever had...

of superior or inferior beings.

But I thank you for that shame,

because now I know...

that we are each of us

a separate human being,

Brandon,

with the right to live

and work and think

as individuals,

but with an obligation

to the society we live in.

By what right

do you dare say...

that there's a superior few

to which you belong?

By what right

did you dare decide...

that that boy in there

was inferior and therefore

could be k*lled?

Did you think you

were God, Brandon?

Is that what you thought

when you choked the life

out of him?

Is that what you thought

when you served food

from his grave?

I don't know what you thought,

but I know what you've done.

You've m*rder*d!

You've strangled

a fellow human being...

who could live and love

as you never could,

and never will again.

What are you doing?

It's not what I'm going to do.

It's what society's going to do.

I don't know what that will be,

but I can guess.

And I can help.

You're going to die,

Brandon, both of you!

You're going to die.

Was that a g*n?

Yes, I heard three shots.

Yeah, they came

from up there.

I think somebody

better call the police.

Did anyone hear

any shots fired?

Can I use your phone?

Here comes a squad car now.

They're coming.