♪ (sinister music) ♪ (soft ominous music) ♪ (soft dramatic music) ♪ (dramatic music) ♪ (soft tense music) (hooves trotting softly) ♪ (soft tense music) ♪ (soft tense music) ♪ (suspenseful music) (gasping sounds) ♪ (soft tense music) (chuckles condescendingly) ♪ (suspenseful music) ♪ (ominous music) ♪ (frenzied music) ♪ (ominous music) ♪ (frenzied music) (tearing sounds) ♪ (frenzied music) ♪ (frenzied music) ♪ (sinister dramatic music) (woman screams) - Help!

Help!

Police!

Help!

♪ (dramatic music) ♪ (dramatic music) ♪ (soft solem music) ♪ (dramatic music) (whistle blows) ♪ (soft solem music) ♪ (tense dramatic music) (man whistles) (man whistles) (hooves trotting by) - Don't see no one taking that house yet awhile.

- Nor me.

(man whistles faintly) (sound of shoveling) ♪ (soft music) (sounds of sweeping) ♪ (soft upbeat music) (clattering sounds) ♪ (soft upbeat music) ♪ (soft upbeat music) (hammer bangs) (hammer bangs) (match strikes) (flame ignites) - Blimey!

It works!

♪ (soft music) ♪ (upbeat music) - Nancy...hurry!

Hurry!

They're coming along now.

I saw the cab down in the square.

Give me the duster!

♪ (upbeat music) (hooves trotting softly) ♪ (upbeat music) ♪ (upbeat music) ♪ (ominous music) ♪ (tense dramatic music) ♪ (ominous music) - Good afternoon, Nancy.

- Good afternoon, ma'am.

Good afternoon, sir.

- Good afternoon.

♪ (soft organ music) ♪ (soft chatter) ♪ (soft organ music) - What a beautiful voice he has, hasn't he?

♪ (soft organ music) - Those are the Mallens from Number 12.

- Yes, I thought we might call on them.

- Not in London, it wouldn't be correct.

- Oh, but... - My dear, I said no.

(soft chatter) - Only two maids?

(soft chatter) (wagon clatters) (soft chatter) - [man] I hear he's a foreigner.

- [woman] But he looks most respectable... - Come on, Cobb.

(soft chatter) (feet thump up steps) (feet scamper up steps) (soft chatter) - [driver] All right behind?

(hooves trotting away) (hooves softly clacking) (door opens) - Seen Mr.

Rough, John?

- Over there, with Hannibal.

- You must hear the message from the vet about the mare.

He says... You all right, sir?

- I've seen a ghost, Cobb.

- [Cobb] What, here sir?

- The ghost of a man out of my past.

- [Cobb] Oh, you mean when you were in the police force, sir?

- Most of my ghosts are criminals, but this one wasn't.

I know the story of the house he lives in.

I was on a case there once, when I was a young peeler.

Louis Bauer!

The nephew of old Alice Barlow that was murdered 20 years ago.

Louis Bauer... A foreigner he was, and very cut up, I remember.

Funny he should come back to 12 Pimlico Square after all these years.

- But 12 Pimlico Square is Mr. Mallen's house.

- [Rough] Nonsense.

Louis Bauer.

Right face, right house.

- No, you're wrong, sir-- - Impossible.

What do you know about it, anyway?

- Well, it's the parlor maid, sir.

You see, she's a friend of mine.

The family's name is Mallen.

- And they live at Number 12?

- Yes sir!

Leastways, part of it.

Nancy says they don't use the top two stories.

"A bit queer," Nancy says.

It means less dusting for her, though.

Mrs. Mallen's queer, too.

- Queer, is she?

Hmm...

In what way?

- Well, she's sort of odd in her mind.

She...does strange things.

Nancy says Mr. Mallen gets very upset.

He goes out every night.

It's a very queer place.

- Yes, it does sound queer.

(patting sound) I want you to see as much of her as you can.

- What, the mare sir?

- No, no no, your Nancy.

- Oh, she's not mine sir.

I'm only one of the pebbles on the beach, so to speak.

- Well, you play up to her.

I want to know everything that goes on.

I believe I'm going to be very interested in Number 12.

♪ (ominous music) - A dirty evening for a stroll, sir?

- There's a lot of dirty things in London.

(bell rings) ♪ (ominous music) ♪ (ominous music) (shades click shut) ♪ (ominous music) - [Paul] Bella?

What are you doing?

- [Bella] Nothing, Paul.

Don't wake up.

- [Paul] What are you doing, Bella?

- [Bella] I thought I heard the muffin man.

- [Paul] Then why didn't you ring for Nancy to find out?

- [Bella] I thought it would mean two journeys for her-- - [Paul] Ring for Nancy, Bella.

(latch clicks) (ringing) What do you suppose the servants are for?

- To serve us, I suppose dear.

(door bangs) Nancy, I rang... the muffin man.

- Oh, I thought you rang for tea ma'am.

I was just bringing it up.

- [Bella] Oh... Then it's too late for muffins.

- Not at all my dear, not at all.

Nancy...spread the cloth, then lay the tea things, go down and get the muffins, cook the muffins, and bring up the muffins.

You see my dear, it's all quite simple.

Light the gas, Nancy.

- Yes, sir.

(match strikes) - You're looking very impudent and pretty tonight, Nancy.

More broken hearts?

- I don't know, I'm sure, sir.

- Where do you get the color for your cheeks, Nancy?

Could you not give the recipe to Mrs. Mallen?

- Oh no, sir...I'm natural.

(Paul laughs) [Nancy] Will that be all you're wanting, sir?

- Yes Nancy, that'll do for the present.

(door closes) - Paul, as though I'd do anything to my face, or ask for her assistance if I did.

- Oh Bella, I was only trifling with her.

- It's so humiliating for me.

That girl laughs at me enough as it is.

- Oh, nonsense Bella.

You know perfectly well how you imagine things.

- Don't say that...

I have been better the last two weeks, haven't I?

- What do you mean?

- You know very well what I mean.

I've been trying so hard... and I have been better because you've been kind to me.

I'll be perfectly all right, if only you'll be patient and gentle with me.

- Of course, my dear, of course... (kiss smooches) Shall I stay in this evening?

- Would you?

- Mm-hmm.

What shall we do?

- [Bella] Tea first.

- [Paul] And then I'll play for you.

(piano notes ring out) - We'll have an evening just like we used to.

♪ (piano plays) (Paul sings indistinctly) ♪ (piano plays) (Paul sings indistinctly) ♪ (solemn music) - Oh Bella... - [Bella] What is it?

- I've just noticed something...

If you put it right while I'm not looking, I will say no more about it.

- [Bella] What's the matter?

I don't understand... (Paul sighs) ♪ (soft music) Paul, don't turn your back on me.

- [Paul] Look on the wall behind you.

♪ (ominous music) - The picture, it's gone again.

- [Paul] Yes...where have you hidden it this time?

- I didn't take it, why should I take it?

[Bella] It's no use to me.

- Why should you take other things?

Pencils, knives... - Paul, don't... - Bella...where's the picture?

- [Bella] I didn't take it, I swear I didn't.

- Come.

Get the picture.

- I'd know if I touched it.

I'd remember...

I've been better lately... You've missed nothing...for days.

Two weeks I've been well, I've... had no headaches, no dreams.

Why should I take the...pic... (bumps door) (doors open) (brisk footsteps up stairs) (slow footsteps up stairs) - So you did know where it was.

- [Bella] I promise you I didn't...

I merely supposed it was here because it was found here twice before.

- Why do you persist in lying to me, Bella?

- It's the truth!

- Bella, if you're not lying there's only one alternative: you're losing your wits!

(picture drops on ground) - You promised you'd never say that to me again... - No control even of your hands.

You'd better go to your room-- - No, no not my room, I...

I can't bear to be alone!

Oh God, help me... - God help you indeed.

♪ (dramatic music) ♪ (ominous music) (match strikes) (flame poofs) ♪ (soft ominous music) (door closes) ♪ (soft ominous music) - I'm going to appeal to you, Paul.

Please... please don't be angry with me.

[Bella] I'd never lie knowingly to you, if I took the picture, or your ring, or your pencil, I...

I didn't know... You must bear with me, Paul!

(Bella whimpers) - I don't know how much longer I can keep my patience.

(Bella sobs) (Bella sobs) ♪ (soft ominous music) (Bella sobs) ♪ (soft ominous music) ♪ (soft ominous music) (Bella sobs) ♪ (soft ominous music) (door opens) (Bella sobs) ♪ (soft ominous music) (door closes) (dishes clatter) (dishes clank) - Eavesdropping, Nancy?

- No sir!

I didn't hear anything!

Only I was just carrying the muffins-- - Your mistress is a very unusual woman.

Quite strange, you know.

You mustn't let things you hear and see in this house upset you.

You are a young girl...

Inexperienced.

You are inexperienced, aren't you?

- It depends how you mean, sir.

(Paul chuckles) - Thank you, Nancy.

(Paul whistles) (desk unlocks) (desk clatters open) (Paul whistles) (little door unlocks) (keys clatter) (Paul whistles) (desk clatters shut) (Paul whistles) (desk locks) (fingers rap lightly) ♪ (ominous music) ♪ (soft ominous music) (door opens) ♪ (soft ominous music) ♪ (ominous music) ♪ (soft ominous music) ♪ (ominous music) (Paul's footsteps up steps) (door unlocks) ♪ (soft ominous music) (door closes) ♪ (ominous music) ♪ (upbeat music) ♪ (upbeat ominous music) (envelope tears) - [Bella] Shh, Tillie don't... You know he doesn't like it.

(door closes) Isn't it a lovely day, Paul?

Just look at the sunshine out in the square.

Where's my letter?

- What letter?

- I haven't had one for such a long time.

I do hope it's from Cousin Vincent.

- It isn't here.

- Why should there be a letter for you?

- Nancy told me there was one.

- Oh, Bella-- - Oh, she did, she did, Paul... - But you've been through them yourself, dear.

You see, they're all addressed to me.

- I had so hoped...

There must be a letter, Paul... (clock chimes) - 9 o'clock.

- Good morning, ma'am.

Good morning, sir.

- Good morning.

- Good morning Elizabeth.

- The dog, Bella.

(clock chimes) (paper rustles) - [Bella] I'm sorry, Tillie.

It won't be for long.

(door closes) - I will read from the 127th Psalm.

"Except the Lord build the house (dog whimpers) (dog whimpers) (Paul reads) ...and they speak with their enemies in the gate."

Let us pray.

- [Rough] Pimlico Square, I was after.

- [agent] Number 14 is the only empty house in the square, I'm afraid.

We are the sole agents.

(coughs) - My pipe bothering you?

- (gasping softly) Not at all.

Faces south, a little alley runs along the back, nothing to block out the light.

But we'll have some difficulty I'm afraid, Mr.

Rough.

- Why is that?

- The remainder of the lease of Number 14 is in the hands of Mr. Mallen of Number 12... and he's already refused three good offers.

- Mr. Mallen of Number 12?

Why won't he let?

- Do you know?

I've often wondered.

A queer profession, mine, Mr.

Rough.

[agent] So near to so many people's lives, and yet, always on the doorstep, as it were.

- Yes, yes indeed.

- A fascinating study, human nature, Mr.

Rough.

- Fascinating.

(map rustles) You don't think there's much chance of that house being really on the market?

- Well, if you want to make an offer, do so by all means.

I sometimes wonder if it's the noise he's afraid of.

The wife's a delicate woman.

Just had a breakdown, I understand.

A charming creature.

I've seen her often walking in the gardens of the square with her dog.

- Gardens?

Oh, it sounds very pleasant.

- Oh they're charming there.

(children's laughter) ♪ (soft music) ♪ (soft music) - Oh!

I wonder how that happened, eh?

(Bella softly gasps) ♪ (dramatic whimsical music) (Bella laughs softly) - [Rough] Oh, my dear lady!

- I'm all right, thank you.

Where's my little dog?

- Little savages, I hope you're not hurt.

- No, not a bit.

- No, you come and sit down over here.

- Oh, no I'm all right.

- Oh, you can't possibly tell if you're hurt until you've had time to think it over.

It doesn't matter so much when you've soft bones like those little rascals.

- I've a good mind to go and complain to their nurses-- - Oh it wasn't their fault, it was quite... Oh, thank you!

That is kind of you.

- [Rough] Fond of children, I see.

Got any of your own?

- No.

I must go.

- Well you haven't counted all your bones yet.

(chuckles) Don't worry about me...

I'm old enough to be your father.

They're not what they used to be.

- Who aren't?

- Children.

I should be ashamed if I couldn't bowl a better hoop than that, wouldn't you?

- I never bothered about hoops.

I was brought up in the country.

- Ah, so was I.

Whereabouts?

- Devonshire.

- Devonshire?

What part?

- I lived with some cousins near Exmouth.

- I know Exmouth very well.

I wonder if I've met them.

- Their name was Ullswater.

- Well don't go yet, I was just getting interested.

(children yelling & taunting) - Stop it!

Stop it!

You rude little boys!

Thi is disgraceful!

- [woman] Oh, how dare they!

- Hmm...poor little devils, I'd like to give them a taste of Devonshire.

- Yes, a grass bank to roll down and some nice, clean mud.

Well, thank you for being so kind.

- [Rough] Toy shop!

- I beg your pardon?

- Something for those little objects to play with!

There is a toy shop across the road.

- Oh, what a lovely idea.

They do look so miserable.

- Well you'll have to come along too, of course.

I mean, that's the whole idea.

Must have a woman about where brats are concerned, you know?

I mean, they'd run a mile if I were to so much as call to them to come.

- I'd love to see them enjoy themselves, but-- - Well, what's to stop you?

- Well my husband is out and won't be back 'till teatime-- - Then you'll be back in time to have it with him.

- I don't want to be silly, but I don't know you.

- [Rough] Oh, this is charity ma'am.

That blows convention out of the window.

Hey!

I mean you children out there in the street.

Come along, don't be afraid.

I've got something for you.

(cart rumbles) (cart clatters down) (feet running) - Would you like some toys to play with?

It is such a shame you can't go into the square.

This gentleman thought that-- - Well there's a toy shop over there...

Tops if you like, or hoops.

- [Bella] Do let's go across, shall we?

(sound of children's voices) (hooves clop) (sound of children's voices) - [man] Good afternoon.

- (Rough chuckles) We've come to the wrong shop.

Buns and ice cream are what they want.

- Do you think we should?

- Nonsense.

Make 'em all sick.

Do 'em a world of good.

Well you know what you want, don't you?

Come on in.

(children's voices) (hooves clop by) (hooves clop by) Here we are.

Help yourselves.

- Blimey!

Look at them lovely tarts!

- There's plenty more.

[Rough] Anything you like...in reason.

That's right.

♪ (dramatic music) - Bella!

♪ (ominous music) - And what exactly can we do for you?

- Knock his block off.

- You!

Who cannot control yourself in your own home... To risk such a thing with a complete stranger!

- It was the children, Paul.

- A horde of noisy street urchins!

When you know the only hope for you is rest and quiet.

Put the dog down.

You're not listening to me.

- I am listening.

[Bella] What are you going to do?!

I've told you before, I can't stand the dog in the drawing room.

- I'm very fond of her, Paul.

- It's not natural!

The fuss you make over it.

[Paul] Sometimes I wonder if you even want to be like other people.

- Why did you ever marry me, Paul?

- When I married you Bella, you were a normal woman... or so I thought.

- It's only since we came to this house that I...I've changed.

I never wanted to come here.

Yet it was my money that made it possible for you to buy it.

Is that why you married me, Paul?

- You have changed, Bella.

- What's made me change?

What's made you change, Paul?

Because you have, in the way you treat me.

I believe it's ever since that day when I...I found that old envelope addressed to Louis Bauer.

That was the first time that you were angry with me like this.

- Bella, I told you I had forgotten that incident.

My only anxiety has always been to get you well.

- I must get away from here...

I'll never be well until I get away from this house... (strange sounding voice from street) - [puppeteer] Come outside, Judy!

Come along!

(puppet makes strange voice) - Paul, I could... My cousins, the Ullswaters...

It would be lovely to smell Devonshire again.

- Your cousin, Mr. Vincent Ullswater, had the effrontery to oppose our marriage.

- But that's over and done with.

Vincent won't mind now.

- But I mind!

I have no desire to reopen our acquaintance.

Besides, I don't care to drag strangers into our troubles.

- They're not strangers, they're my own people!

They're all I have...I want to see them, I...

I will see them.

- If you see anyone, it will be a doctor.

- No...no, not a doctor Paul, I...

I'm well, I'm better.

Please leave me alone, Paul... (goat brays) (puppet makes strange voice) - [puppeteer] That was very cruel!

- Bella, I don't see how I can take the responsibility for you any longer.

Oh, Bella... (hat thumps down) Don't cry.

You'll spoil your looks... and I wanted you to look very beautiful tonight.

Have you any objections to being seen out with your husband?

- Why, are you going to take me out?

- There's a charity concert tonight at Winterbourne house.

I could get tickets.

I know Lady Winterbourne.

- A concert, and you'll take me?

- I should enjoy it, provided-- - Oh how wonderful!

What should I wear?

- Provided that you promise to control yourself... to behave as you know I'd wish my wife to behave.

- I promise.

What shall I wear?

- Whatever you look prettiest in, my dear.

Bella...wear the cameo brooch I gave you when we got engaged.

- I will.

♪ (upbeat music) - My brooch please, Nancy.

The big cameo.

- Yes ma'am.

♪ (ominous music) It's not here, ma'am.

- It must be.

Look underneath.

(jewelry jingles) Of course it's here, let me look.

(jewelry jingles) Perhaps I left it in another dress.

(Paul whistles faintly) - Bella!

Time to start, Bella!

- [Bella] Coming, Paul.

Nancy, my cloak!

- Which one, ma'am?

- Well, which one do you think?

- Couldn't say I'm sure, ma'am.

- Oh... - Well this'll do.

♪ (upbeat music) - What a very lovely purse!

♪ (upbeat music) Charming...but not my brooch?

- I would have worn it.

You know how fond I am of it, only it...didn't go with this dress.

- I wouldn't presume to criticize your taste... but your hair, is it quite right?

Come, I'll hold that.

♪ (ominous music) It's a quarter to eight, Bella.

♪ (ominous music) - I think I'm making it worse.

My hand's quite shaky with excitement.

(doorbell rings) - [Paul] Ah, there's the cab.

♪ (soft music) - I think I'm going to enjoy myself tonight.

(indistinct chatter) - [doorman] Mr. John and Mr. Hogan.

(indistinct chatter) Mr. And Mrs. Blair.

Prince Hanawa and Mr. Ryan.

Mr. And Mrs. Mallen.

- [woman] How do you do?

- [Paul] How do you do?

May I introduce my wife?

- How do you do?

- How do you do?

- A very good cause, isn't it?

- [doorman] Lady Frenton, Miss Frenton.

- [woman] Splendid cause, don't you think?

- [doorman] Mr. Rollings and Miss Rollings.

- Charming.

Quite a complexion.

(indistinct chatter) - You are the most beautiful of all.

(applause) - I hope the stool is right.

- [pianist] Thank you.

♪ (piano plays) - Bella... Bella, my watch... My watch is gone.

- You must have forgotten it.

♪ (piano plays) Don't worry about it now.

♪ (piano plays) I don't know anything about it, Paul.

- But it was in my pocket when we left the house.

- Paul, don't look at me like that.

- Let me have a look at your bag.

♪ (piano plays) (Bella gasps softly) (Bella gulps) ♪ (piano plays) (Bella gasps loudly) ♪ (piano plays) - I didn't put it there, I swear I didn't!

- Will you be quiet, please?

♪ (piano plays) - Control yourself, Bella.

Please spare me a scene in public.

- Paul!

(Bella whimpers loudly) - Come.

♪ (piano plays) (object clatters) (piano stops) (Bella whimpers loudly) Lady Winterbourne, I do apologize... but my wife had an attack.

- Let me send for a doctor.

- No, thank you.

It's nothing unusual, unfortunately.

Come along darling, come along.

(annoyed chatter) (annoyed chatter) (Bella whimpers) ♪ (dramatic suspenseful music) (hooves clopping) ♪ (tense music) (Bella gasps) (hooves clopping) ♪ (tense music) - Paul, speak to me.

Don't sit there silent, I can't stand it... Hit me, hurt me, do anything, but... for pity's sake, speak to me.

(hooves clopping) ♪ (tense music) Oh, dear... ♪ (tense music) - [driver] Thank you sir.

♪ (tense ominous music) ♪ (melancholy ominous music) (door closes) (cane clatters) Paul, how can you torture me like this?

- And have you not tortured me?

You make my life a misery at home, and now you shame me in public.

At least let's keep your stealing and pickpocketing and lying to ourselves.

- I haven't lied to you, I didn't take your watch!

- What about the brooch?

- Brooch?

- [Paul] The one I asked you to wear tonight.

The one that didn't go with your dress.

- It's upstairs in my room.

- [Paul] More lies.

- It is, it must be.

It's only mislaid, Paul.

- You've hidden it away in one of your mad dreams!

- I have not!

If it's gone, someone else has taken it.

- Someone else?

We'll see about someone else.

(Paul's footsteps) Elizabeth?

Nancy?

Come up to the drawing room, at once please!

- Paul, please don't question the servants in front of me.

- Oh, dear dear, what's happened now?

- [Nancy] Mistress' been playing him up again, I suppose.

- [Elizabeth] There you are, Tillie.

Go into your basket, there you are.

Stop titivating yourself, come on.

- [Nancy] Right.

- [Bella] Paul, please don't have that girl up here... At least let me look again, first.

(faint indistinct chatter) - [Elizabeth] Don't you giggle so much.

You behave yourself.

(doors close) - It may have fallen behind the dressing table.

Let's talk this over between ourselves....please?

Please don't let the servants know.

(knocking on door) - Come in!

(door opens) [Paul] Shut the door, please Elizabeth.

Come into the room.

(door closes) You know the cameo brooch your mistress often wears?

- Yes, sir.

- [Paul] Do you, Nancy?

- Yes, sir.

- It is missing.

[Paul] Do you know anything about it?

I want you to think carefully before you answer, Elizabeth.

- No sir, I don't.

- You will please kiss the Bible in token of your truthfulness.

Thank you.

[Pau] And you Nancy... have you ever touched the brooch?

- No sir, of course I haven't.

- Thank you.

You may go.

(door opens) (door closes) [Paul] Be careful what you do.

Don't commit sacrilege as well.

- This is no sacrilege.

I swear by Almighty God that I neither took your watch nor hid away the brooch.

- Then you are mad... you unhappy creature!

And you'll get worse until you die!

Raving in an asylum!

♪ (dramatic ominous music) (door opens) ♪ (suspenseful music) ♪ (dramatic ominous music) And where the devil are you going, Nancy?

- I came to see if there were any letters for the post, sir.

- Are you expecting to meet somebody on your way to the post?

- Only a gentleman friend, sir.

- So I supposed.

- Well...are there any letters, sir?

- Come in here for a moment, will you?

(door closes) Let me have a look at your hair.

- Very good, sir.

Is there anything more you want, sir?

- Perhaps.

Come closer, will you?

- Yes, sir.

Is there anything you...want, sir?

There....can she do that for you?

- I believe you're jealous of your mistress, Nancy.

- Her?

(Nancy scoffs) She's a poor thing.

It's better than one of us to get excited.

- Yes Nancy, I believe it is.

- You're mine now, aren't you?

'Cause you want me.

- And you want me?

- I've always wanted you.

When shall we meet?

- I'll let you know.

- Not tonight?

- No, I have to go out again.

Go along now, there's a good girl.

- Very well...you shall be master for a bit longer.

(door opens) Good night, Your Lordship.

(door closes) - [Rough] That you, Cobb?

(dog barks) - Yes sir.

- All quiet?

- Well the constable passed about 10 minutes ago, sir.

- Yes, I reckon they can't get back from that concert before 11.

That'll give me time to find out what he gets up to in Number 14.

- The only thing is sir, I usually meet Nancy when she comes out at 9 o'clock to post the letters.

Well she never came.

- Well, we'll have to risk it.

(lock clicks and opens) You wait about.

If Nancy does come out...squeeze her dry.

Of information, I mean.

(door opens) (door closes) ♪ (ominous music) (latch clicks) ♪ (ominous music) (door handle rattles & opens) - Good evening, Nancy.

You're late.

- Hello, nice of you to wait.

Such goings-on!

Master made us swear things, kissing the Bible and all.

- The master?

But...

I thought they were at the concert.

- Oh, they came back early.

Must have had another row.

Come on, I'll go take the letters.

- Well, let me take them for you.

It'll...save you the trouble.

- Oh, I like a bit of air...and a change.

♪ (ominous music) (door thuds downstairs) ♪ (ominous music) (Paul's footsteps up stairs) ♪ (ominous music) (Paul's footsteps up stairs) ♪ (dramatic ominous music) (Paul's footsteps up stairs) ♪ (ominous music) ♪ (ominous music) (object rumbling above) (soft banging sounds) (door opens) - Upstairs...there's someone moving!

Elizabeth!

Oh dear, is there no one?

- It's all right, ma'am.

I'm coming.

- [Bella] Oh, Elizabeth!

There is someone upstairs.... someone moving!

- There there, ma'am.

Don't take on so.

There isn't anybody in the house, only you and me.

You mustn't let yourself imagine things.

Come into your room and drink your milk.

- But I don't imagine things, Elizabeth!

It's true, you can hear it!

Listen... A moment ago, the flame on the gas dimmed, as it does when someone turns on another light in the house.

Did you turn on another light, Elizabeth?

- No, ma'am.

There's no one in the house but us... Nancy's out, and the master... - It did a minute ago... - There there, ma'am...

There's only something wrong with the pipes.

You must have dropped off, and been dreaming you heard something.

- That's right, Elizabeth... Dreaming...

If I dream things when I'm awake...

I'm going out of my mind, Elizabeth.

- Oh ma'am, you mustn't say such things.

- But you know, Elizabeth... Well, the master did say something, but... - I once knew a girl who died in a lunatic asylum.

I remember her eyes.

That was how they first knew.

- If there's anything I can do, ma'am?

- No thank you, Elizabeth.

There isn't anything anybody can do.

♪ (sentimental dramatic music) (door closes) (footsteps from above) (indistinct sound) (knob clicks) ♪ (soft music plays) (footsteps from above) ♪ (soft music plays) (footsteps grow louder) ♪ (soft music plays) (footsteps grow louder) ♪ (tense music) (Bella cries out) ♪ (soft music plays) ♪ (soft ominous music) (door opens) (door closes) - Yes Cobb?

- There's a letter from Australia, sir.

- Australia?!

Give it to me!

(envelope rustles) (envelope rustles) Cobb, I really am a remarkable man.

- Yes, sir?

It's my memory.

Amazing.

They shall have it for the museum when I die.

With any luck, this should help us.

When's Nancy's next night out?

- Well, tonight sir.

- Yes, I wished it was Mrs. Mallen's instead.

Still, it all goes to show that I'm on the right lines, as usual.

All I want now is evidence.

- Evidence of what, sir?

- Well I'm certain that he is Louis Bauer... and I've a shrewd idea of what he's up to in that house.

Can't prove it, of course.

The only one who can help us is that poor woman.

- And she's crazy.

- She will be if she stays there much longer.

- Does she know that he's not Mallen?

- I don't think so, but she knows something.

That's her danger.

That's why we've got to get her away from him, out of that house.

- That's easier said than done, sir.

- [stable boy] Cobb?

- [Cobb] What is it?

- A gentleman to see the governor.

- It's a stranger sir.

Shall I take--?

- Thank God you're here, sir!

Come along in!

- [Cobb] Oh, I'm sorry sir.

I didn't know he was a friend of yours-- - Never seen him in my life before.

- Are you Mr.

Rough?

- That's right!

- Well I got your letter, I'm-- - Mr. Vincent Ullswater from Devonshire.

- Yes.

- Come along and sit down, sir.

I've got a lot to talk to you about.

- [Nancy] Your boots, sir.

- Mm-hmm.

- Mrs. Mallen is in her room?

- Yes, sir.

I think she's got a headache, sir.

- Did you ever know a time when Mrs. Mallen did not have a headache, Nancy?

- Hardly ever, sir.

- And when is your next evening out, Nancy?

- [Nancy] Tonight, sir.

- And where do you usually pass the evenings with your gentleman friends, Nancy?

- Oh, walking around the square, sir... or in the park.

- Then perhaps it would be departing too much from tradition if you were to come with me to a music hall.

- Oh!

Do you mean it?!

- I always mean what I say.

I shall meet you at 7:50 at the corner of the square.

- You're a rum'un.

I thought you was never gonna do nothin'.

(bell rings) - That'll do Nancy.

Answer the bell.

- [Vincent] Is Mrs. Mallen at home?

- [Nancy] What name should I say, sir?

- [Vincent] Her cousin, Mr. Ullswater.

- [Nancy] Very good, sir.

(Paul's footsteps down stairs) (Paul's footsteps down stairs) - How do you do?

- How do you do.

Will you come in here for a moment?

(door opens) See that Mrs. Mallen is not informed of this call.

- Very good, sir.

- I hope you'll forgive me for calling at this hour, but I happened to be in London and I'd hoped to see Bella.

- I'm sorry... (door closes) but my wife is unable to see you.

- Mr. Mallen, this is a little difficult to explain, but... you may remember that at the time of your marriage, there was a slight friction between us.

- [Paul] I was peculiarly alive to the fact.

- My sister and I have long regretted these differences.

They've kept us separated from Bella too long.

- In your opinion.

- We're anxious to see her again, have her stay with us in Devonshire.

The air always used to do her so much good down there.

- You're under the impression she's ill?

- Well-- - And what has given you that impression?

- She was never strong.

- I'm the best guardian of my wife's health.

- All the same, I should like to see my cousin.

- Bella was with me when we heard you arrive.

If she had wished to see you, she wouldn't have asked me to speak to you down here.

- She refused to see me?

- The inference appears to be perfectly clear.

- I don't think I like your tone, Mallen.

- You're under no obligation to listen to it, Mr. Ullswater.

- I'm not going to leave this house until I see my cousin.

- Do you propose to interfere between a husband and wife?

It would require physical force, Mr. Ullswater.

Nancy, will you please show this gentleman out?

- [Nancy] Yes sir.

(door closes) (paper rustles) ♪ (dramatic ominous music) (window slides open) - [Bella] Vincent... ♪ (suspenseful music) Paul...I've just seen Vincent out in the square!

Has he been here?

- [Paul] Yes...he's been here.

- And you let him go without seeing me... Paul, why didn't you tell me?

- So you did write to him?

- [Bella] Write?

- Against my express orders, you went behind my back and complained to your cousins.

- [Bella] But I didn't.

I've never written to them!

- How did he know this address?

- I don't know.

- Or that you'd been ill?

- I don't...know.

- What else did you tell him?

- Nothing, I never wrote!

- What lies about me have you told him?

- Paul...if I had written, which I didn't, do you suppose I'd have said a word to my cousins against my husband?

- Do you think I can trust the insane ravings of a madwoman?!

- Paul, don't say that... - Your mind is diseased!

You are as witless as an animal!

- Paul...I'm desperate.

If I do the things you say, then I am going mad.

It's when you're angry with me like this... my head aches, and my mind gets tired.

You must help me, Paul.

If you were afflicted, I would be gentle.

I should love you more... - Let go of my arm.

- Paul, how can you be so cruel?

You used not to be.

It's only since we came to this hateful, horrible house that everything's changed.

It must be because of that envelope I found.

Who was Louis Bauer?

- There's no such person as Louis Bauer.

- Then why should that have changed our lives?

Just a name on an old envelope?

- (yells) There was never even an envelope!

(picture smashes) That was the beginning of your madness... when I realized you were a half-witted creature who pried through my desk and my papers... but this is the end.

You're not only mad, you are dangerous!

You are going to see a doctor, madam.

- No Paul... not a doctor... - More than one doctor tomorrow morning.

- Oh, I'm too tired... Paul, did you ever love me?

- I hate you!

You are utterly repulsive to me.

(door closes) (whispers) Louis Bauer... (hoof thuds) - What I can't understand is my cousin not wanting to see me.

- Well, you've only got his word for it.

- Well she's his wife, I couldn't force him to let me see her... but surely there must be something we can do to help her.

- There's nothing you can do now.

It won't do to let him get really afraid of your interference.

This cab of mine will take you back to your hotel.

- Oh, it's very kind of you.

I hate leaving you to deal with all this.

After all, I am her cousin.

- Well I can perhaps use methods that you can't.

I may need your influence to get a warrant... if I can't get my evidence.

- Good.

- But he won't risk anything that would lead to an inquiry afterwards.

- In the meantime, you know where to find me... Anderson's Hotel.

- Jim?

Anderson's Hotel.

- Right.

Come on.

(hooves trot away) - Mr.

Rough!

Mr.

Rough, sir!

- Now what's the trouble?

- It's Mrs. Mallen, sir.

- What's happened?

- He's going to have her certified in the morning.

- How do you know?!

- Well, Nancy heard.

I was going out-- - Come to the point, boy!

- Well I waited, and I saw Nancy and Mr. Mallen get into a cab.

- Where have they gone to?

- Well I heard him tell the driver to go to Canterbury Music Hall.

- This is our chance!

- Well where are we going?

Save your breath, you'll need it later on.

♪ (jovial music) (cheering & applause) - ♪ (singing) For one long year and two long months ♪ Three weeks, four days, five hours... ♪ Alas I went to courting ♪ When the nature's fairest flowers ♪ Miss Serafina honeybun who caused a deep sensation ♪ In the region of my heart, but now... ♪ I'm full of aggravation (Nancy laughs) ♪ Oh... (Nancy laughs) ♪ For it's very aggravating when your lung's not through - Enjoying yourself?

- I'll say so.

Aren't you?

- Immensely.

- Life's gonna be one long holiday for you after tomorrow.

♪ (performer sings) Bachelor, eh?

- (Bella mumbles) Brooch... no, that's not it.

(sounds of rummaging) (light knock on door) Oh Elizabeth, it's you... Help me to move this.

My brooch may have dropped behind it, if only I could find my brooch, he may not send for the doctors.

- A gentleman to see you, ma'am.

- Oh, well tell him my husband isn't in.

- It's you he wants to see, ma'am, not the master...and he says it's urgent.

- Vincent...he's come back!

I'm sorry, Elizabeth.

♪ (dramatic sentimental music) (doors open) - Good evening, Mrs. Mallen.

- [Bella] You?

But I thought-- - Last time we met, your husband interrupted us, but he won't this time.

(doors close) - [Bella] I don't understand.

- Ah, you will indeed, ma'am, very shortly.

Now you just sit down, make yourself comfortable.

(Rough sighs) You're supposed to be going off your head, aren't you?

- Who told you?

Why do you say that?

(cheering & applause) - Ladies and gentlemen... the can-can dancers!

[man] Direct from Paris, and I know you're gonna like 'em.

Of course, as I know more about what they're going to do than you do at the present, I hope you'll excuse my back.

(laughter & applause) ♪ (can-can music plays) ♪ (can-can music plays) - Vulgar... ♪ (can-can music plays) (cheering & applause) - This house was ransacked.

The murderer had searched for those rubies all through the night... and the opinion of the police was that he'd found them and vanished with them.

- And they never caught him?

- No... but suppose he didn't find those rubies after all?

Suppose they were concealed in the walls, or the floor of old Alice Barlow's bedroom... which was the room above yours, Mrs. Mallen.

- The footsteps... - What footsteps?

- And the gaslight going up and down... ♪ (upbeat music plays) - ♪ (woman sings) The boy I love is up in the gallery ♪ The boy I love is looking down at me ♪ There he is!

Can't you see?

Waving his handkerchief ♪ As merry as a robin that sings on a tree ♪ (audience joins in) The boy I love is up in the gallery ♪ The boy I love is looking down at me - Hey, what's the matter?

- [Paul] Come along.

- But there's another ten just starting!

- I've had enough.

Come along now, please.

- That's what made me sure my mind is going... lying in my room, watching the gaslight... listening for someone in a place where no one can go.

- Oh yes they can... along the roof from the empty house next door.

- [Bella] But what are you saying?

- It fits, it all fits!

Tell me...have you ever heard of the name Louis Bauer?

- It's a trap!

I never said I found that envelope!

- No, no, no-- - It's a lie!

Go away and leave this house!

(Bela mumbles) - Come come, now, good girl... What do you know about Louis Bauer?

- I found...

I thought I found...an envelope addressed to him.

It was when we first came here, that's what started my-- - I've got it!

I've solved it!

I've saved you!

God, what a marvelous man I am!

- What are you talking about?

- Your Mr. Mallen is my Mr. Louis Bauer... a criminal maniac who murdered his aunt, and steals back to his own house at night, still searching for those rubies he couldn't find 20 years ago.

And every time he lights the gas up in that room, so it dims down here.

- And when the light brightens, I...

I hear his key in the door a few minutes afterwards.

I can't stand it.

My mind... - Oh, you are not going out of your mind, Mrs. Mallen.

You're slowly and methodically being driven out of your mind.

But why?

Because, quite by accident, you got onto his identity, and that made you dangerous to him.

He couldn't get rid of you by ordinary means, for fear of an inquiry, so he's driving you mad, in order to discredit anything that you say as the ravings of a lunatic.

Thank God you're not married to him.

- Not married to him?

- [Rough] Certainly not.

He married another lady long before he met you, and she's still alive.

- How do you know?

- I've been finding out things about Mr. Louis Bauer.

- Where is this woman?

- That's the trouble.

Australia.

That's three months away.

By then it would be too late to save you.

That's why you've got to give me the evidence we need.

- What evidence?

- Any proof of Louis Bauer's identity.

- But I don't know where to find it.

- Well, you can tell me where to look.

- Yes, but-- - In here?

- You don't understand... To me, he's still my husband.

I couldn't betray my husband.

- You mean the man who betrayed you into thinking you were married to him?

- That's different.

That was before I knew him... We've lived together as husband and wife.

If I betrayed him, I'd be betraying myself.

- Even though I tell you that this moment he's sitting in a music hall with another woman?

Your parlormaid.

- Is that true?

- It's hard to take everything from you, but I'm afraid it is.

(hooves trot away) - You go straight in, and I'll follow you in a moment.

- Whatcha gonna do?

- Mmm, take a little stroll.

- Will we go out again?

- I'll let you know.

(both hum the can-can) - Oh!

I know you will.

- He keeps his papers in there.

- Then this is where we start.

- [Bella] But it's locked.

- [Rough] Good!

That means there are probably some things inside that are very interesting.

Do you mind if I take my coat off?

I always work much better with my coat off.

Saucy shirt, isn't it?

- [Bella] What are you going to do?

- There's only two things I've ever wanted to be: a gardener or a burglar.

Both of them nice, quiet occupations.

(gate clicks shut) (Rough grunts) This is tougher than I thought.

- [Bella] You mustn't force it.

- Afraid I'll have to.

- But what shall I say when he comes back?

- Don't you realize it's tonight or never?

Tomorrow he wants to get you certified.

If we go back, we're lost!

We must gamble on finding something.

Now, are you with me?

- All right, force it, but be quick.

- There's no hurry, ma'am.

He's quite happy where he is.

I don't like these violent methods... Makes me feel like a dentist.

All over now.

(wood splinters) (desk opens) Drawn a blank so far... Give me the keys.

I suppose he keeps his papers in here.

(lock clicks) (Rough grunts) (keys jingle) - Look!

He's back, he's upstairs!

Oh, I'm afraid... - How long does he usually stay?

- Any time, an hour or 10 minutes.

- Well, we shall want longer than that.

(desk clatters) (desk clatters) That's done for I'm afraid, but we shall have to risk it.

Come along.

Come along!

- I can't see him, I daren't!

- You shan't.

Go right up to your room, lock yourself in and don't come out in any circumstances, until I tell you.

- You're not going?

You won't leave the house?

- Of course not.

- But Elizabeth--?

- Oh, don't you worry about Elizabeth.

I've squared her... and remember: you're all right so long as you stay in your room.

(door closes) (bang from downstairs) (Paul's footsteps up stairs) (door locks) - Bella?

- I brought you milk.

- Go upstairs and tell Mrs. Mallen she's to come down here at once.

- Just like that, sir?

(desk clatters) Very good, sir.

(knocks lightly) [Nancy] Are you there, ma'am?

Master says you're to come to the drawing room at once.

(footsteps down stairs) (desk clatters shut) She won't answer.

She's got the door locked, I tried it.

- All right Nancy, go to bed.

- Well, I've got to let the dog out first.

- You needn't worry about the dog.

Go to bed.

- What's the game?

What are you up to, eh?

- Will you kindly remember that you're not a guest in this house?

(Nancy mutters) (doorknob rattles) - [Paul] Bella...I have your dog here.

I found it in the drawing room where you know it is not allowed.

- The dog?

Paul, no!

No!

(door unlocks) Don't hurt it, I'm coming!

(door opens) I'm coming!

(footsteps down stairs) [Bella] Give me the dog!

What have you done with it?

- Dog?

What dog?

- [Bella] You said you had it.

Have you hurt it?

- I haven't seen your dog.

(doors close) Another of your dreams... like the one in which you dared break open my desk!

- Dream?

Don't tell me it was a dream, that he never came here.

- He?

Who came?

Tell me about this dream of yours.

- I dreamed that a man came...in here.

A dream... - I know you dreamed... but tell me about the man.

(Bella whimpers) Speak, will you?

I want to know more about the man!

- I dreamed, I...

I dreamed!

- [Rough] Was I part of this curious dream?

- [Paul] Who are you?

- Apparently, a mere figment of this lady's imagination.

- How did you get in?

- Oh, we ghosts don't have to bother about doors.

- If you don't tell me your business-- - I came to call upon another ghost... the ghost of the man who murdered Alice Barlow in this very room.

- I have no idea what you're talking about.

- Haven't you?

Mr. Louis Bauer?

- (voice shakes) My name is Mallen-- - [Rough] Oh, no it isn't.

- You've been listening to my wife's insane ramblings!

- Correct... except that she isn't insane, nor is she your wife.

- You dare to break into my house!

You tamper with my desk!

- Where you and I know lies the evidence that you are Louis Bauer.

(laughs loudly) (desk clatters open) - [Paul] Here's what you wanted.

It will give me great pleasure to see you make a fool of yourself before I throw you out of the house!

- [Rough] Hmm, seems to be nothing here.

- [Bella] My brooch... Then it's true... You did hide my things!

You laid traps for me and said that I lied to you!

- I found the brooch only today and put it aside until I could give it back to you.

- Give it to me.

This isn't your brooch.

- I gave it to my wife as an engagement present.

- Where did you get it from?

- It's secondhand.

- How do you know?

- There's an inscription in it.

- Where?

Where?!

- [Bella] Inside, it's a trick.

I discovered it by accident.

- [Rough] Show me!

"To A.B."

What are these?

- [Bella] There were some sort of stones in it.

- [Rough] Stones?

Well, where are they?

Quick!

- They were loose, so I took them out and put them in here.

(stones jingle) - There you are!

Alice Barlow's brooch... Alice Barlow's rubies!

20,000 pounds worth.

[Rough] This brooch and these rubies are going to send you to the gallows.

- Give them to me.

- Get out of the room, quickly.

- Look!

(objects shatter) (chair crashes) (door closes [Bella] Help!

Oh quick, hurry!

(door closes) (door opens) (sounds of struggling) (lamp shatters) (sounds of struggling) (crack) (heavy breathing) - That'll hold him.

We shan't need any more.

Did you get my message through to Mr. Ullswater?

- Yes, sir.

- Alright, well you go for the police now...and hurry.

- [Cobb] Very good, sir.

- It's all over now, ma'am.

You can go along up to your room.

I'll deal with the servants.

(Bauer moans) - I want to speak to my wife... [Bauer] Alone.

- You go up to your room.

- I too want to speak to my husband.

- Now, you'll only be torturing yourself.

- I want to speak to him alone.

- Very well, if you insist...

I don't suppose...

I'll hear you if you call.

(door closes) - Bella... [Bauer] Quick Bella, the rubies!

Help me to get away, and give me them... - Rubies?

How you lusted for them.

(rubies jingle down on table) Look at them.

Look.

- Bella, hurry... Get the knife in the drawer... Cut me free...and give them to me.

[Bauer] Quick, Bella... cut the rope here.

Take the knife.

- Knife?

What knife?

Are you suggesting this is a knife I have in my hand?

[Bella] Have you gone mad, my sane husband?

There was a knife, but I lost it.

I always hide things away, because I'm mad.

- Bella, what are you saying?

- Rubies...you killed a woman for them... And me, you tried to kill my mind.

You made me mad!

[Bella] "Witless as an animal," you said.

Now you're helpless, and I'm mad!

- (shouts) Bella!

♪ (dramatic sinister music) (Bella yells for help) ♪ (soft suspenseful music) (Bauer grunts) - [Rough] Better let him hold them.

(rubies jingle) (rubies jingle) (handcuffs click) ♪ (soft ominous music) - The rubies... ♪ (dramatic ominous music) ♪ (ominous music) ♪ (sentimental music) (curtains slide) ♪ (sentimental music) ♪ (dramatic music) ♪ (soft music)