(light music) (upbeat music) >> This is it, Rupert, our big chance.

Maybe next week your name will go up in lights.

Rupert, the talk of the town.

You won't let me down, will you Rupert?

You'll do everything just like I taught you.

Ah yes, now how about, how about a dress rehearsal?

Here.

The curtain is up, you're on the stage.

Stay right there, when I tell you.

Now, get ready for our song and dance.

Are you all set?

Now, one, two.

(accordion music) ♪ 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 your not far from Rome ♪ ♪ He taps his little toe and steals the show ♪ ♪ And takes your heart along♪ Now we've got to the dance in unison.

And it's got to perfect for everything depends on how we do it.

Now, are you all set?

Here we go.

(upbeat accordion music) Phil, Phil I'm so glad to see ya.

>> Joe, how have you been?

>> Oh, not too good but everything's gonna change now.

Here sit down.

How are ya, Miss?

>> Flo, this is Joe Mahoney.

He used to work out of my father's office.

And the best lion tamer in the business.

(chuckling) Weren't ya?

>> Go on, with ya.

>> 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.

(chuckling) >> You mean, that's it?

>> That's it.

>> A squirrel?

>> Sure.

>> You wouldn't fool me, would ya?

>> Oh, 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 not box office.

>> Come on, honey, we're late.

>> Yeah, 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 blood thirsty killer from the far away jungles of darkest Africa.

So he's box office.

But a little pip squeak thing like a squirrel that anybody can see any place, in any park, any time is just, besides he's so small they'd never see him in the balcony.

>> But did I tell ya, Rupert is almost human.

>> Come on honey, we're late.

>> Now just a minute.

Look Joe, I'd love to give ya a break.

I know things have been tough but well, he just ain't.

>> Box office.

(somber music) Goodbye, Mr. Dingle.

I'll pay every cent that I owe ya.

>> You should, Mahoney, you should.

(light music) Hey Pete!

Get a broom and pail and help me clean this place up.

(somber music) >> It's nice and peaceful here, ain't it?

You can breathe.

Now take a good look around.

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.

Oh to be sure, it's a silly outfit.

There you are.

They would have laughed at you.

That's enough, 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 ya.

You'll be the life of the party doing the somersaults and all the cute little tricks that I taught ya.

Go on, I tell ya.

Beat it, I tell ya.

Beat it, I tell ya!

(somber music) What shall I do?

He 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 three cents to tell you, you have two cents.

Let's get going, hm?

>> Look at all those lucky people going home with arms full of packages.

They'll have turkey for Christmas and packages under the tree.

>> Don't envy 'em Rosalinda.

I bet every one of 'em faced a Christmas like us at some time or another.

And besides, it ain't Christmas yet.

Who knows, old St. Nick may have a bundle for us too.

But the trouble is we ain't got no address he can deliver 'em to.

>> Amendola!

The Amendola trio.

>> Joe, Joe Mahoney!

>> Joe, darling.

>> Now don't tell me this is little Rosie.

>> Yes, 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.

(chuckling) 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.

(chuckling) >> Oh no, no.

>> Please, a little respect for that joke.

It's older than you.

Sorry, Joe.

I see you haven't been doing so good, eh 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 second 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 got 32 dollars, you can move right in.

>> How long did you live there without paying any rent?

>> Six months.

>> Just what we're looking for.

Something outta the high rent district.

Joe, it's been good seeing ya.

>> Yes, thank you.

>> And you must drop in and see us soon, Joe.

>> Yes, yes thank you.

>> Hey wait, wait for me!

>> 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!

(dramatic music) >> Hey, wait for me!

>> Merry Christmas!

(ominous music) (sniffing) (cawing bird) (dog barking) (dramatic music) (whistling) >> Come here, here boy.

Come here, Fred, here boy.

(whistling) (cawing bird) (light music) (knocking) >> Oh, hello.

>> 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 better speak to my father about it.

He's right next door.

>> Oh.

>> Oh, on second thought.

I could handle this myself.

Come in.

>> Be back in a minute.

(light music) >> Oh gosh, it's good to be home.

>> My name Amendola.

>> My name is Pete Dingle.

>> Rosalinda.

>> Joe Mahoney sent us.

>> Oh, well that's okay with me but don't mention it to my father.

The rent will be 32 dollars a month.

>> Well, I don't mind electric bulbs that are unfrosted.

And 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.

>> Perfect.

Well Momma, 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.

>> A good cleaning is right.

Look at all those cob webs.

>> Rosie, don't touch those cobwebs.

They're probably holding the building together.

Well, now that all the business has been taken care of I'll-- >> 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, well I just-- >> Tuh, tuh, tuh, 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.

(chuckling) Well don't forget, feel free to drop in at anytime.

>> Well, thanks very much.

Now about the rent.

>> Oh, I think I'm gonna like it here.

>> Well, I hope so.

>> Now if you don't mind I'd like to change.

>> Oh no, not at all.

I mean, I'll see ya later.

(chuckling) >> Well Momma, I did it.

>> Hey look Pa, he forgot his tuba.

>> He'll be back, but if he don't you can blow in it every night and announce dinner.

You realize what I've done?

No rent in advance and a roof over our heads.

>> There's an awful big hole in the skylight.

>> So what?

If it snows we'd be the only ones in town that will have a white Christmas, inside the house and out.

>> Hello, Pete.

>> Hi.

>> I think I got a letter for ya.

>> Oh?

>> No, it's for your old man.

>> I'll give it to him.

>> Well if I don't see ya tomorrow, merry Christmas.

>> Yeah, same to you.

>> Did ya clean the place?

>> Clean it, I rented it.

>> Good, you can work if you make up your mind.

Who'd you rent it to?

>> Their name is Amendola.

>> Their?

>> Uh-huh.

>> How many are there?

>> Oh, just three.

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.

>> Okay, give me the 32 dollars.

>> And you know, they didn't even ask for any re decorations 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 and a daughter.

>> Yeah, you said that before.

Look son, I want that 32 dollars 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?

(ringing) >> I'll get it.

(ringing) Oh, hello.

>> Hello.

You forgot to give me the key.

>> They key?

Oh yes, yes, the key.

Here it is.

>> Thank you.

>> Hey, wait a minute.

You're gonna stay, aren't you?

>> Well if my father-- >> Frank: Who is it, Pete?

>> Look, don't go away.

I'll be right back.

>> Who was it?

>> Oh, the postman.

It's for you.

>> National Security Bank, now what do those chiseler's want?

>> What is it?

>> Oh, just an advertisement.

>> Oh.

>> Katie.

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 dollars.

And they say we're going to get the same amount each week from now on.

>> Mercy.

And the day before Christmas too, Frank.

It's money from heaven.

We should go to church and pray.

>> Oh yeah, sure, sure.

But first I'll go down to the bank and cash this check.

>> I know that apartment isn't what you folks have been used to.

But you know, with a little paint and fixing it up, it uh.

>> You mean you'll redecorate it?

>> Well I, I'll speak to my father about it.

>> Oh, and mother's been having a little trouble with the the stove.

It's awfully old.

>> Well, we'll see what we can do about that, too.

Maybe get ya another one.

>> A new stove!

>> Shh.

>> Is there somebody asleep in there?

>> My father.

I mean, well, my father is 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, well what size do you wear?

>> I'm dreaming of a size four, why?

>> Stay right where ya are.

>> Not a word of this to a soul, Katie.

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?

>> Six, why?

>> Oh, nevermind.

Now don't you go buying shoes for me for Christmas because I've got two pairs already.

Isn't that nice of him?

Not a nickel in his pocket and he's still thinking of buying me shoes.

>> Aw.

>> Just for that, Frank, I want you to buy a nice neck tie for him and put it under the Christmas tree.

He likes those hand painted ones.

I saw some perfectly lovely ones for only five dollars.

>> Five dollars, eh?

I'll get some paint out of the attic and paint one myself.

(light music) >> They call it the Amendola trio, the human pyramid.

Papa balanced Momma on his shoulders and then I stood on top of Momma all done up like a little angel.

>> Sounds exciting.

>> Then Papa juggled, Momma sang, and I played the harp.

Used to go over big.

Only I started growing, Momma got heavier, and one day Papa's legs gave out.

>> You mean he dropped you?

>> Four times in one week.

The fourth time Momma broke her leg.

You've 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.

I 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.

>> Molinari: A week ago the price of this tree was seven dollars, yesterday four dollars.

Now what am I bidding?

>> 40 cents.

>> 40 cents, who will make it a dollar?

>> Customer: One dollar.

>> I wish we were gonna have a tree.

Of course with the moving and all.

But 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.

>> So what do you do for money?

>> I don't need money.

>> But suppose you were walking along with a girl and she wanted 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 two more left.

Now what am I bid for this one?

>> Forty cents.

>> A dollar and a half.

>> A dollar and a half, do I hear two?

A dollar and a half once, a dollar and a half twice.

Sold to this gentleman for a dollar and a half.

And now for the last tree, all right folks.

It's your last chance.

What am I bid for this one?

>> 40 cents.

>> 75 cents.

>> 75 cents do I hear a dollar, a dollar?

Will someone make it a dollar?

75 cents once, 75 cents twice.

>> A dollar.

>> A dollar I've got.

A dollar once, twice, sold to this gentleman for a dollar.

Here you are, buddy.

>> Say mister, would it be all right if I pay ya 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 ya?

Hey, wait!

Look, you can have the tree.

Give me the 40 cents.

>> Oh thanks!

I'll pay ya the rest as soon as I can.

>> I'll give ya 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 siree, 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 some-- >> 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 is 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 until it smells like a ham but.

(light music) ♪ Come all ye faithful ♪ ♪ Joyful and triumphant ♪ ♪ Oh come ye ♪ ♪ Oh 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.

♪ Oh come let us adore him ♪ ♪ Christ, the Lord♪ ♪ The first Noel, the angels did say ♪ ♪ Was to certain poor shepherds ♪ ♪ In fields where they lay ♪ ♪ In fields where they lay keeping their sheep♪ (hammering) ♪ Noel, Noel ♪ ♪ Noel, Noel ♪ ♪ Born is the king of Israel♪ >> Tomorrow's 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.

(triumphant music) Thank you, thank you Lord.

(triumphant music) >> Tell me, Rosalinda, do you still play the harp?

>> Sure, why?

>> Well, I think I'll compose something just for the harp and tuba.

I'm gonna call it the Melody of Two Orphan Instruments.

>> That's a cute title.

Do you think they'll go together?

>> I don't know.

But I'm hoping.

(light music) >> Papa, papa wait.

(light music) >> 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.

>> Momma, your wedding ring, you didn't hock it?

>> No, I didn't hock anything.

All I did-- >> I know, you wired that drummer in Boston who had a crush on ya.

That Sheik with the patent leather shoes and tuxedo.

I remember what he said when we announced our engagement.

If ever ya 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.

>> Oh, let mom explain, papa.

>> No, the money didn't come from him.

It came from.

Here, Papa.

You've been sit down.

>> Better loosen your collar, Papa.

>> Rosalinda, bring Papa a glass of water.

Papa, you love me don't ya?

>> Of course I love ya.

>> And you trust me?

You'd believe me if I told ya something, wouldn't you?

Even if nobody else in all the world would believe me, you would believe me, wouldn't ya Papa?

>> Sure I would, Momma.

>> Well, I was sitting right here in this chair and I was praying.

And well, this money, 1,500 dollars come floating right down through the hole in the skylight.

>> 1,500 dollars?

From heaven!

>> You do believe me, don't ya Papa?

>> If you said it, I gotta believe ya.

>> Oh, merry Christmas, Papa.

>> Merry Christmas, Papa.

>> You see, Rosie, I told ya old St. 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 dollars.

>> Ah, it's not that dangerous.

>> This is a terrific tie, Dad.

Thanks again.

Did you see the watermelons, Mom?

They're hand painted.

(ringing) >> 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.

(chuckling) >> 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.

>> Will you put it right over here?

>> Yeah, I'll just take it right.

>> That's a nice tree you got there, Mr. Dingle.

Where did you get it, Molinari's?

>> Uh-huh.

>> Maybe we oughta 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, some day 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 a mantle, I'll drop in three months rent.

Keep the four dollars change.

>> Three 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.

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 on a one horse open sleigh ♪ ♪ Jingle bells, jingle bells ♪ ♪ Jingle all the way ♪ ♪ Oh what fun it is to ride ♪ ♪ On a one horse open sleigh♪ I love the excitement of Christmas.

I'll never forget one Christmas eve when I was a kid.

I hung my stocking up on a mantle, went to bed, and when I woke up the next morning what do you think I found in the stocking?

My father's foot.

(chuckling) ♪ 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 ♪ ♪ On a one horse open ♪ Soft!

How do you like that?

There's a guy going into 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 it fun it is to ride ♪ ♪ On a one horse open sleigh♪ This is wonderful.

♪ Now isn't it a shame ♪ ♪ That Christmas comes ♪ ♪ But once a year ♪ ♪ Wouldn't be nice ♪ ♪ If it came around twice ♪ ♪ Spreading hope and good cheer ♪ ♪ Just when everyone forgets good winter 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 Pythias.

♪ Now isn't it a shame ♪ ♪ That Christmas comes ♪ ♪ But once a year♪ (cheering) You'll notice Rosalinda brought her harp along.

And 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 Two Orphan Instruments.

Wanna try it?

>> Sure, set the piece right over here, Pete.

>> Okay.

There ya are.

>> Thanks.

>> Ready?

>> Yes, uh-huh.

(light music) >> I don't want my wife to hear this, but 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 back flip in a bathtub?

No, and you know the reason why?

'Cause 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 ya.

Have you got anything around here we could rig up like a teeter port?

>> A see-saw?

>> Yeah.

>> Oh, I think so.

Let me see, now.

How about a table leaf?

>> You got one?

>> Yeah.

>> Go get it!

(light music) Great, now get me a glass of water.

(light music) Thanks.

Why this trick is so simple I taught it to Rosalinda when she was only three 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 to that end.

I will get to a back somersault, light a cigarette in mid air and land in that chair without spilling one drop of water.

Ready?

>> Ready.

>> Go!

(cracking wood) Termites!

(light music) >> 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.

(light music) >> Look somebody's coming to see us in a beautiful car!

(knocking) >> Rosalinda, go down to see who it is.

It might be somebody important.

(knocking) >> Yes?

>> Oh hello, I, is Joe Mahoney home?

>> Oh he's moved away.

>> He has?

Well, do you know where he went?

>> I'm afraid I don't.

>> Well, that's great.

What will I do with this Christmas present I brought him?

Here, it's yours.

>> But I.

>> Go ahead, go ahead it's all right.

>> But I really don't-- >> Oh, it's just fruit and things.

Do you live here?

>> Yes.

>> Alone?

>> With my parents.

>> Oh, well that's nice.

>> Uh, anything I can do for ya?

>> My name is Phil Davis.

I'm a friend of Joe Mahoney's and I just dropped-- >> 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 ya?

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 on one of the greatest vaudeville acts of its time.

And 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.

(chuckling) Just a little joke I use in the act.

Now if you give me your undivided attention.

(light music) >> Say, that's good, that's great.

How'd ya do it?

>> Huh?

>> How'd ya 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 ya, Mr. Amendola.

>> Sure, sure.

>> Now, how about you?

>> About me?

>> Yeah.

>> Oh, I'm sorry to bud in but the coffee's ready.

>> Oh.

>> You know a girl with your looks and figure should be in the lime light.

And I'm just the man who 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.

>> Well 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-- >> 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?

>> Well I'm sorry, but I was.

I'd love to.

Father, may I go out with Mr. Davis?

>> You better ask your mother.

>> Rosie: Oh thanks a lot.

>> I threw five nuts up and only four came down.

This defies the laws of gravity.

(light music) >> It's midnight, she isn't home yet.

>> Momma, stop worrying.

Nothing can happen to her.

She's not alone, she's with a man.

Momma, 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 think.

(light music) >> Katie!

Katie!

>> What is it, Frank?

>> I've been thinking about that Amendola family.

Why should people who can afford to pay three 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 sakes, stop worrying and go to sleep.

(light music) (chuckling) >> Why don't ya check outta this town?

Come to New York.

Things can happen to you there, Rosie.

>> Oh, let's not start that again, Phil, please.

>> Oh, I'm crazy about ya, Rosie.

I'll do anything for ya.

>> Do you know any music publishers, Phil?

>> Sure, dozens of 'em, why?

>> Well, I wrote some music.

I think it's beautiful.

If you could take it to some-- >> Well I didn't know you were a composer.

Melody for Two Orphan Instruments by Peter Dingle.

Who's Peter Dingle?

>> Oh, well you see, well I put a man's name on it because I knew no one would even look at 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, goodnight.

>> Wait a minute.

>> See ya tomorrow.

(dramatic music) >> Oh, I'm sorry to wake ya up, Mr. Haggerty.

>> Well, what's the matter, Pete?

Is somebody sick?

>> Yeah, me.

I want that job.

>> Well, do you wanna start right now or can you wait 'til tomorrow morning?

>> I'm sorry, I was afraid somebody else might get it.

You see Mr. Haggerty, I need money.

>> Hey Pete.

>> Yeah?

>> Come in closer, laddy boy.

This is for your ears alone.

I got a sure thing in sixth of California today.

Cut me in on 40% of the winnings and I'll give it to ya.

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.

>> Yes sir?

>> What's your best cigar?

>> Oh I got some good ones back here.

Quarter a piece.

>> Quarter a piece?

How much does a whole one cost.

(chuckling) It's just a little joke.

>> About as little as I've heard.

>> Pete.

Hello.

>> Hi.

What'll it be?

>> I, 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 opposed to work.

>> Sure.

I even remember I couldn't buy a certain girl a cool drink in a drug store.

Now not only can I buy it, but serve it too.

What'll 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, your missing a great bet.

That philly'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 gotta do is twist a tooth and.

(upbeat music) Music, it's also a radio!

The other tooth is for short wave.

>> But we don't need it.

>> Sure we do.

It lends an air of quality to the place.

Momma, what's a real home without a polar bear?

>> But we must stop buying things.

That 500 dollars you have left has got to last.

>> Oh, I'm glad you brought that up.

You know that Mr. Buyfield who we bought these few pieces of furniture off?

Well, I stopped by today to look at the little piano we were talking about.

And you know something, he isn't doing so well.

>> Oh Papa, I hope you didn't.

>> It's not his fault that business is bad.

Naturally with banks leaning on the place and no one to turn to.

>> Our last 500 dollars.

>> Oh Papa, all our lives you've been doing this.

Whenever we get a little ahead you'll 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 Momma, we got nothing to worry about.

We still got that 100 dollars 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 praying 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 ya gotta do is ask.

And let heaven make up it's 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 saying is that Rosalinda needs shoes.

But now she doesn't need shoes.

She has four pair already.

>> But Momma, when you say she needs shoes that doesn't mean she really needs 'em.

It's like stage hands in the theater playing 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.

>> Um, all right.

Bring me the little old rocker.

>> I'll get it.

>> I was sitting in it when it happened.

>> Say it, Momma, say it.

>> Please help us, Rosalinda needs shoes.

She needs them real bad.

(light music) >> It's no use, Momma.

The prayer won't be answered.

>> Maybe it has been answered.

And the answer is no.

Well, we're grateful anyhow.

I guess I better take this rug back to the shop.

(light music) >> Please forgive me for telling a lie.

Rosalinda doesn't need shoes.

(ethereal music) Come back, come back!

It's coming down!

(ethereal music) It happened exactly a week ago at about the same time.

>> Exactly 1,500 dollars again.

>> Mercy 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 dollars.

It's funny how simple life can be.

(farcical music) It's coming down.

(light music) Hello Petrushka.

>> Here's your bread 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.

Oh, Momma.

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 dollars, why?

>> Well, deposit this and we can make it a thousand.

>> Oh, that's fine.

>> I'm telling you, it's all over town.

This Amendola character gave 1,025 dollars for kids shoes.

He lives in a stable and sleeps in the straw.

The guy doesn't work, it don't add up.

Where does he get the money?

>> Gave 2,500 dollars 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.

Two months later he buys a ship load 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 who's wife told him and she swears it's true that Amendola is a big gangster in hiding.

And if was you, Mr. Dingle, I'd notify the police right away.

>> Notify the FBI.

I saw it in a movie.

Someone should write them an anonymous letter.

>> Sure, write anonymous letters.

Report 'em to the police, put 'em in jail.

The guy has to be punished because he has a big heart.

>> Oh pipe down, Pete.

I told ya 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 everyday in a big car.

>> Woman: We can't hear you!

>> Patron: Louder!

>> A man comes to see their daughter everyday in a big car.

>> That's true, he's a Broadway agent, what about him?

>> Would you like a little 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.

(gasping) >> Pete!

>> Oh my goodness.

>> Oh, I forgot the cherry.

>> What'll it be?

>> Bourbon and water.

>> Hi, Pete.

>> Oh, hi.

>> Say, I had dinner at the drug store 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 ya, 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 for a proposition, I know how to make some real dough.

Get this, a friend of mine.

Look Eddie, why don't you make a like a ballerina and dance away.

Here, stick this in the jukebox and play something 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.

>> But Pete, for only two G's you can grab yourself 20% interest and become a millionaire in no time.

>> Are you out of your mind?

Where would I get 2,000 dollars?

>> 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 a policeman at the bank says that old man of yours has been cashing pretty large checks for weeks now.

>> Yeah, 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 ya.

What father could refuse such a proposition?

>> Tell me, Mulligan.

Is this really on the level?

>> I'll tell ya what I'll do.

I'll introduce ya to my friend.

He'll show ya the papers.

And besides, he'll give ya 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 ya have it.

You've been seen in the bank cashing large checks lately.

>> That's a lie, now get out!

I don't wanna hear any more about it.

But I'll pay ya back.

I'll repay ya 10 times over.

>> But I haven't got it, I tell ya!

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!

(somber music) >> Goodbye, Phil.

>> Phil: I'll take you to the door.

>> Rosalinda: Oh no, that's all right.

>> Phil: Sure you'll get in all right?

>> Rosalinda: Sure.

>> Phil: Goodnight.

(rumbling engine) >> Oh Pete.

>> Hello, Rosalinda.

>> It's a beautiful night, isn't it?

>> Yeah.

>> Mind if I join you?

>> No, no not at all.

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?

>> 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.

There isn't anything between us Pete.

I can't explain to ya about the money because there just isn't explanation.

>> Well, 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 ya have to say is... (uplifting music) >> Oh, what's the use Rosalinda.

All right, suppose I am in love with you.

That's not enough.

2,000 dollars plus more luck than I dare hope for.

And we might be able to do something about it.

>> A marriage license only costs two dollars.

>> 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 was the happiest time in their whole life.

>> Very true.

>> Pete: Well that's great.

But I can't even juggle.

>> We'll have to take that up the first thing in the morning.

>> But why must we have 2,000 dollars?

>> It's an oil field.

And it might come in.

Then again, it might not.

But if it did, aw, what's the use trying to dream my way out of it?

>> Pete, maybe Papa could lend ya the money.

>> Maybe.

>> Pete: But 2,000 dollars?

>> You can ask him.

>> I'm sorry, Rosalinda.

I'm superstitious about borrowing money that comes from heaven.

(dramatic music) (sobbing) (light music) >> Oh Pete, Pete.

>> Oh, Mr. Amendola.

>> I couldn't help over hearing you and Rosalinda talking out here.

It's not that I was eaves drooping or that I meant to listen.

It was just the I had to get up and fill my cold water bottle.

You see, my feet get very hot at night.

>> I 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 dollars.

I'd be very glad to.

>> No, 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 morning.

(light piano music) Momma, where's Rosalinda?

>> She 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 will go.

>> Oh Papa, Papa.

(light music) >> Momma, remember this?

>> Maybe.

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?

>> Momma, that was me!

>> Of course it was, Papa.

And I've been singing myself to sleep with it ever since.

Sing it, Papa.

♪ Take an L, and take an O ♪ ♪ And take a V ♪ ♪ Take a wubba you ♪ ♪ But not the wubba you, and not the wubba you ♪ ♪ Take a park, a bench beneath the tree ♪ >> I remember ♪ To that LV ♪ ♪ The Natalie ♪ ♪ 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 one, two, or three ♪ ♪ Little wubba you, little wubba yous, ♪ ♪ Little wubba yous♪ (light music) (knocking) >> Yes, gentlemen?

>> We're not together.

I'm Lieutenant Saunders, Police.

I'm looking for a man named Louie Amendola.

>> That's me.

>> I'm Inspector Tanney, 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, all we need is the FBI.

(knocking) Oh, pardon me.

>> Callahan, FBI.

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 income.

>> What income?

>> We got a report that you-- >> 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's coming from.

>> We saved a lot when we were the human pyramid.

And I took that money and invested it wisely.

I'll have you know that I've majored in economics at Cranfus College.

>> Cranfus, I've never heard of that college.

>> Well that's like saying you never heard of Joe Crumpus.

>> 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 two days old a nurse turned her back when 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.

(light music) I see you don't believe me.

All right, I'll tell ya the truth.

I was down at the beach digging with my pail and shovel when suddenly my shovel struck the top of an iron bound chest.

>> Pirate's treasure, eh?

>> Amendola: That's right.

>> That does it.

Look here, Amendola.

You've been reported for everything from swiping tires off of 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 dollars every week.

>> On the dot.

>> I like the one about the pirate's chest better.

Come on, Amendola.

Let's go down and tell it to the boys at the station.

>> But I can prove it.

I can prove every word of it.

>> 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.

(light music) >> Imagine doubting my veracity.

(light music) >> Look.

(honking cars) And I hear they're both doing tremendous business.

>> They are, eh?

All right come on, let's go.

>> Look.

(light music) 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 have done the same thing if you'd invested your money instead of hiding it.

Marx and Amendola Garage.

Look, 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'm gonna raise Amendola's rent again.

As of today, come on.

>> Frank.

>> Due to the increased cost of living I must raise the rent of this place.

>> Again?

>> This is the eighth time you've raised the rent since we moved in, Mr. Dingle.

You're forcing me to join landlord 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?

>> Uh, 30 dollars.

>> 30 dollars, 125 dollars a month?

Why it's robbery.

>> Well if you think that you can start packing right now.

>> Well he didn't mean that, Mr. Dingle.

Did ya Papa?

>> Of course not.

I apologize Mr. Dingle.

Why, for only 125 dollars a month, where else could ya find a place where the sun shine comes streaming through the key hole all day.

>> You're right.

You can't take advantage of me like you've been doing with a lot of bankrupt shop owners.

>> Now look here, Dingle.

I only helped those fellas 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 short change him you tight old buzzard.

>> Oh that's done it.

Another word outta 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 some day.

>> Oo, 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... Katie, Katie, Katie!

>> Yes, Frank?

>> Our gold mine is exhausted.

There'll be no more checks.

>> Pa!

>> Let's get going, Amendola.

It's almost 3:30.

>> Okay.

All right, Momma.

Say it.

>> Rosalinda needs shoes.

(light music) >> Oh look.

>> Gentlemen, gentlemen.

A little patience.

1,500 dollars is a lot of money.

Sometimes we've gotta ask twice.

Try it again, Momma.

Try it again.

>> Rosalinda needs shoes.

>> Once again, once again.

>> Rosalinda...needs...shoes.

>> I guess you're right, Momma.

It seems the miracle is over.

(sobbing) I threw away 1,500 dollars a week when I threw this chair.

>> It's not the chair.

We have no excuse to ask for anymore.

>> You're right, Momma.

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.

(light music) I'm moving out of this shack the first thing tomorrow morning.

Now even my cigarettes don't come down.

>> I'm afraid you're not gonna have to wait 'til the first thing tomorrow morning.

You're beginning to move now.

Down to the station house.

>> 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 station house.

>> I don't wanna question him at your station house.

I want to question him at my field office.

>> I don't care where either one of 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.

What do you think of that?

>> Gentlemen, gentlemen, let's have cooperation.

Let him go with me.

>> Goodnight, Pete.

>> Goodnight, Rosalinda.

>> Momma!

Papa, what's the matter?

>> Oh, it's nothing Rosalinda.

These gentlemen don't quite understand where we're getting our money from.

So I'm going down town and explaining it.

You stay here with mother.

>> Is there anything I can do, Mr. Amendola?

>> Oh, yeah.

Pardon us a moment, will ya?

Look Pete, I don't know how long I'm gonna be gone.

Kinda keep an eye on things around here until I get back, will ya?

>> Oh sure, sure.

But this trouble, is it serious?

>> There's nothing to it.

With time off for good behavior, I may only get life.

(chuckling) All right gentlemen, who's car do I go in?

>> Together: Mine!

(arguing) >> I smell smoke.

>> So do I.

(dramatic music) >> But Dad, Mr. Amendola's in serious trouble.

Maybe the 2,000 dollars would help him.

You've got to give it to him.

>> I think you should, Frank.

After all, Mr. Amendola helped Pete.

>> Helped him how?

To make an idiot out of himself by giving him 2,000 dollars for the crook Mulligan.

I won't do it, I tell ya.

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 just 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.

(dramatic music) Help, help!

Help I'm choking!

Help!

I'm choking!

>> Come on, Dad!

>> Frank: No, I've gotta get the money.

>> Pete: Forget your money!

>> Frank: The money's in the hole behind the bed!

>> Frank!

>> It's all right Mom, I've got him.

>> Frank!

>> I wanna get the money, let me go!

(dramatic music) It's my money, I wanna get my money.

(shouting) I want to get the money, it's burning up.

>> The polar bear rug with the radio inside.

I'll miss "The Jimmy Durante Show."

>> Here it is, Papa.

>> Radio: By a length.

Moby Dick second by two lengths.

Curses third for four lengths.

(sirens blaring) (dramatic music) >> Thousands of dollars, it's all gone.

>> Heavens 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!

>> Pete, 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 hundred dollar bills.

>> He put it in the hole behind his bed.

>> Every Thursday, 1,500 dollars.

Now it's all gone!

(dramatic music) >> Rosalinda needs shoes, huh?

>> Now pull yourself together, Mr. Dingle.

I'll rebuild the house.

It'll be better than new.

>> Mr. Amendola!

>> 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 simpler?

Who owes the tax?

Amendola or this other guy?

>> Well naturally, the, huh.

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 fella'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 his 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.

Until March 15th.

>> What'd ya 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.

>> I wonder what he was doing in the house.

(light music) That's a place for a little squirrel to be.

(light music) >> Thanks for the lift.

>> Okay.

(chirping crickets) >> Rupert?

Rupert!

Rupert!

(chirping crickets) (accordion music) Ah ha, my good old Rupert.

Oh, you haven't changed a bit.

(sniffing) You smell a little smokey, though.

Now tell me, how was it?

How did the other squirrels treat ya?

Were they good?

Oh, oh I've got good news for ya.

I got a job with the circus.

We start in two weeks in Hoboken.

Me and two seals.

(light music) (crowd cheering) (accordion music) (crowd 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, 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 to-- >> Words, words.

What are words?

If it'll make ya any happier Mr. Dingle, I'll even carry you across the threshold.

>> Thank you, Mr. Amendola.

(giggling) (uplifting music) >> Our old home, Frank.

Oh, and it's nicer than before.

>> I'm glad you like it.

My little wife crocheted the dirlies, but I'll have to take credit for the curtains.

I would have done a much better job only my pinking sheers were dull.

(ringing) >> Pete!

>> Mulligan!

Why you dirty, double crossing!

>> Now, now wait a minute.

Wait a minute.

>> I oughta let you have it!

>> Let me go.

We're rich Pete, rich.

The oil has come in like a geyser.

>> What?

The well came in?

(honking) >> Rosie, come down here quick.

>> Phil!

Oh you don't mean it, Phil!

>> Hey look here, Davis!

>> Oh Pete, listen.

It's your music.

Phil just told me.

>> What, what music?

>> What is it?

>> Will you be quiet and listen to the radio?

>> Radio: The Melody for Two Orphan Instruments by Peter Dingle.

(light music) >> 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.

(chuckling) (upbeat music)