Ward of the Roses

THIS PROGRAM WAS MADE POSSIBLE IN PART BY THE BELL FUND CANADA MEDIA FUND COGECO ET COGECO COMMUNICATIONS INC. AND BY CONTRIBUTIONS TO YOUR PBS STATION FROM VIEWERS LIKE YOU.

THANK YOU.

(indistinct speaking) - (man): Thank you so much.

- (woman): So can Miss Rose have your support?

- Etta Rose has lived in the Ward her entire life, ma'am.

- Thank you for listening.

I hope you'll reconsider.

- How's it going on the phones?

- Some people like you and some people... - I know, it's a long shot.

- No, nothing worthwhile comes easy.

I can still hear Mr. Johnson's voice.

- Mr. Johnson?

What was that, 7th grade?

- Mm-hmm.

- We've known each other a long time.

- And even if I didn't, I would still vote for you.

(chuckle) - As would I.

(phones ringing) - Etta, this is Frankie Drake.

- The famous private detective I've been hearing so much about.

- You are the famous one, Miss Rose.

Trudy has been talking about you non-stop since you announced your candidacy.

- Etta, please.

- Alderman Decker has held the seat for as long as I can remember.

- Mhm.

The community has been neglected for far too long.

- How are the polls looking?

- Oh, well, if everyone who said they're gonna come out and vote does, then yes, I have a chance.

If they don't... (indistinct chatter) - Miss Rose.

I hope all is progressing well.

- We're working the phones, talking to people just like you taught me.

- And you might you be, young ladies?

- This is my friend Trudy Clarke and her associate Frankie Drake.

- I remember you.

- Yes.

My mother, Mildred Clarke, and I, we helped with your campaign after the war.

She still speaks very highly of you.

- Please give my very best to Mildred.

- I will.

She'll be thrilled.

- Ladies and gentlemen, look who's dropped by for a visit: Mr. William Hubbard.

As you know, he fought the same fight we're fighting.

He worked for the poor, he tried to improve our waterfront and helped create High Park.

He's also the first person of African descent to hold office in this city.

- You forgot the most important thing: the Hubbard Mini Bread Oven.

(all laughing) I look at you all and I feel pride.

And I know that you will all build on my humble accomplishment.

I've known Etta Rose since she was a child, and I am deeply moved that she chose to follow in my footsteps.

Bless you all.

- Sir, it is an honour to meet you.

- It's an honour to meet you too.

- And we're gonna win this one for Etta.

Let me show you around.

- Well, you know, if anything, you're still doing a lot of good around here.

You're teaching English, you're helping new arrivals.

- None of that will matter if the neighbourhood's destroyed.

- Hmm.

- I aim to get elected and stop it.

- We're going to do what can do what we can to help.

- Anything you need, we're here.

- Thank you.

- I'd hate for you to lose your favourite drinking hole.

- Mm-hmm?

- Don't think I don't know what's out back: Quon's.

Been there a few times myself.

(glass shattering) (screaming) - Someone call the fire department!

♪ (engine humming) Everybody, come on, let's go!

- Let's go, let's go, let's go!

♪ - OK, guys, everyone, stay outside.

Get some air.

- Licence plate was H 407.

- Told you we have a fight on our hands.

(theme music) (woman scat singing) That was all I saw.

- Ah.

Thank you.

That'll be all.

- "That'll be all"?

Her office was just bombed!

- I saw a car drive away right after the bomb was thrown.

The licence plate was H 407.

- You see them throw the bombs?

- No.

- Who's to say it wasn't just a car?

- Me!

It was obvious the way that it sped away-- - You're supposed to be detectives, you should know that nothing's obvious.

- The only thing that seems obvious is the fact that you don't want to do your job.

- Looks like everything is under control.

You might want to post a couple of men outside.

- You might want to post a couple of men out here.

- How would it look, Miss Drake, if the police department were seen to be picking favourites?

- So you're not gonna do anything?

- I'll send a couple of beaker boys, see if they can find out anything about the fire.

I heard that politics is a nasty business.

I guess I heard right.

- Wait.

- So that's it?

- (Trudy): Frankie, it's OK?

- We'll handle our own business.

- You mind yourselves.

- I'll get that plate number to Bill.

♪ - OK. (bell ringing) - "It lay thickly "drifted on the crooked crosses and headstones "on the spears of little gate, "on the barren thorns.

"His soul swooned slowly as he heard the snow "falling faintly through the universe, "and faintly falling like the descent of their last end upon all the living and the dead."

- That's very good.

- Etta Rose's campaign office has been firebombed.

- What?!

By who?

- We don't know.

- Will you guys help?

- Of course.

- What did the police say?

- It's not their problem.

- So it's ours.

♪ Are you sure this is the right address?

- Bill doesn't make mistakes.

He says the owner of the car lives on the second floor.

(indistinct chatter) - Excuse me.

We're looking for a Mister Ken Wallace.

- You got him.

- Do you have a car with the licence plate H 407?

- Who's asking?

- I'm Frankie Drake.

This is Trudy Clarke.

We're private detectives.

- You're broads!

- Gee, could have fooled me.

- Where is your car?

- Damned if I know.

- So you're saying you lost your car?

- I didn't lose nothing.

It was stolen a couple of days ago.

- How convenient.

- What did you say to me?

- Did you report the car stolen to the police?

- Oh yeah, yeah.

And they tell me it's their number one priority.

- So that's a no then.

- That's a no.

- So, the same car used to attack Etta's headquarters was stolen the night before the attacks?

- I don't buy it.

- (Trudy): Where is everyone?

- A firebomb has a way of dampening enthusiasm.

- So kind of opposite effect.

Fire, dampening?

Wrong time for science though.

- We are going to find whoever did this.

- The damage may have already been done.

- They're probably just scared.

They'll come back.

- Mary and I can man the phones for a while.

- We talk on the phone all the time.

- A bit too much if you ask me.

- (Mary): Yeah.

- Miss Rose, sincere condolences.

Politics is supposed to be robust, but it shouldn't be a war.

- Alderman Decker.

Hello.

- Was anyone harmed in the attack?

- No.

- Thank God for that.

- We're very grateful.

What can I do for you?

- I just wanted to stop by and make it clear that my campaign abhors acts of violence.

- Did your campaign suffer any similar incidents?

- Thankfully no.

- That's good for you.

- I don't believe I've had the pleasure.

- I'm Frankie Drake, this is Trudy Clarke.

- Of course, the detectives.

This is quite the day.

Anyhow, Miss Rose, if you're in need of any stationery supplies of any kind, I'll be happy to provide you with what you need.

- Thank you.

But I don't need your help.

- Very well then.

- But since you're here, why don't you walk down the street and tell all these people that you're gonna kick them out of their homes the moment you're elected.

- I'm not here to argue with the events of the day.

I'm just offering my assistance.

- Lady says she doesn't need it.

- Boyzey Penbrooke.

- What are you doing here?

- I think it's time for you to leave, Decker.

♪ - I'll see you on the hustings, Miss Rose.

- Looking forward to it.

Now, what are you really doing here?

- I'm here because nothing worthwhile comes easy.

(small chuckle) (indistinct speaking) (piano music) - Boyzey and his gals, just like old times, huh?

- We were never your gals.

- Oh, you both had a crush on me and you know it.

- Oh, please.

- (Etta): Hahaha!

- So you guys have known each other a long time?

- Practically since we were in diapers.

- We were the only Black kids in school, so we had to stick together.

- But our lives took us in different directions since then.

- So, we have a private detective, a politician and what exactly do you do, Boyzey?

- Haha!

I got my fingers in a lot of pies.

- Code for being a developer.

- Pulling myself up and made something of myself, and I won't apologize for that.

- Nor should you.

Just like I won't apologize for trying to make developers do the right thing for the Ward.

- Who says we won't?

- I do.

What are your plans for housing, community centres, uh-- - Let's not turn this into a debate, please.

- Trudy Clarke, always a moderating influence.

- You said you wanted to help, Boyzey.

How?

(piano music playing) - No matter what Etta thinks of my choice of career, it has given me certain advantages - financial resources, business contacts - and I'm gonna throw all of that behind the campaign.

- But we practically disagree about everything.

- That may be, but we have a history.

- Hmm.

- People like us have to support each other if we want to rise up in this world.

♪ What do you say?

- I say you've got yourself a deal.

- Alright.

Meet me at Quon's Diner first thing tomorrow.

Election's only a couple of days away, looks to me like your campaign could use a boost of energy.

I'll introduce you to the people you need to meet to win this thing.

♪ - OK. - We'll catch up with you guys.

One second.

You remember them, right?

v back to you.

(indistinct conversations) Very good to see you again.

- (woman): Thank you so much... - Boyzey knows all the movers and shakers.

- It's like he said, he has his finger in a lot of pies.

- He's only been at it a few hours; at this rate, Etta is gonna win in a landslide.

- From your lips... (indistinct chatter) - I think my hand might fall off from all the shaking.

- Just keep smiling.

- I'm doing my best, but honestly I just want to get back to the office.

I'm not good at all this glad handing.

- You could have fooled me.

You seem right at home here.

- Oh, that's all thanks to Miss Howard's drama class.

- Well, student government and debate club didn't hurt either.

(Etta and Trudy chuckling) So, do you think you shook all the hands you need to shake?

- I think so.

Yes.

- Give me a second.

- Oh!

- OK, so get back to your office and get your glad rags on.

You've got a meeting with the Toronto Business Man's Association.

- Really?

♪ I've been trying to talk to them about the new development plan for the Ward for weeks.

- Yeah, well, you know, you got an in.

- Oh, Boyzey, looks like you're useful after all.

- More than you know, Trudy.

- Mm-hmm.

♪ Let's go.

(indistinct chatter) Ever since he was a kid, he was a hustler.

- Yeah, but the Businessmen's Association, we don't exactly see eye to eye.

- At least, he's prepared to listen.

- Oh, my God!

- Resign.

This is your last warning."

♪ - Are you sure you don't want us to call the police?

- What's the point?

- The point is someone is threatening you and you need protection.

- I agree, but we both know it isn't gonna come from them.

- Frankie and I are gonna find out who's behind this, and you will win this election.

- Hope so because I would last a day as a waitress or somebody's secretary.

(indistinct chatter) - What do you think?

- I think whoever's doing this isn't gonna stop until they get what they want, which is Etta out of the race.

- Something that's not gonna happen.

- They found the vehicle.

- I should stay with Etta just in case.

- We should go.

- Actually, we need to go to.

- Where?

- We have the Businessmen Association 1 p.m. - Oh yes, of course.

- They discovered the car a couple of hours ago.

- Are the police on their way?

- They said they'd get to it.

Wow!

Someone really wanted this car destroyed.

- Maybe Wallace tried to cover his tracks after we spoke.

(indistinct chatter) - Etta Rose is working to save the Ward, trying to stop people from being thrown out of their homes.

If you don't want to support Miss Rose, that's fine, but there's no need to use that sort of language.

Or that!

Some people's children.

- So what else you got lined up?

- Church breakfast first thing tomorrow.

Oh, I'll be so glad to see my last pancake.

(Boyzey clearing his throat) (phones ringing) - Oh, God, he's still doing that couching thing?

- Boyzey, it was annoying in school, and it's even more annoying now.

- If you have something to say, just say it.

- I do.

You did decently with the Businessmen's Association, but you can do better.

- I was explaining my platform.

- You don't explain; you have to sell!

And to sell, you have to have a message.

- I do have a message.

I want to save the Ward.

- That's not what the people at the top want to hear.

- Maybe she doesn't care what the people at the top want to hear.

- You have to.

You win them, and everyone else follows.

And you want to win, don't you?

- Of course.

- OK, then let's get you ready.

We'll need your help, Trudy.

- With what?

- You're gonna be Decker.

- Based on the state of this car, it's impossible to tell whether it transported a bomb or not.

Maybe I should go up to the warehouse and inquire if someone saw who drove it here.

- Mr. Wallace was taller than me, he would have needed that seat pushed further back if he were driving.

- So someone much shorter than him must have driven it here.

- I think he was telling the truth: someone did steal his car.

- You think we should pay him another visit?

- Time to sweeten him up.

- We can't hold on to the past.

In order for a city to grow, it has to progress.

- Mr. Decker, I respectfully disagree.

- Uh, skip the pomp, Etta.

- I'm all for progress.

Believe you me, I know all too well the necessity for it.

I also know the importance of community... ...and the Ward is a community.

- Which I intend to improve with new business and development.

- By developers who are friends of yours.

Developers and business interest who care only about one thing: their profits!

- Don't paint us developers so broadly.

Those business interests vote too.

- You are the same as always: gotta be everyone's best friend.

What's wrong with Etta taking a strong stance?

- A strong stance?

Like back in school when you two convinced us to stage that walkout?

(Trudy laughing) What did that accomplish?

- We believed in something.

- And got expelled for three days, and they still cut the general program.

If you'd listened to me and we negotiated... maybe we would have won.

- So you still always have to be right?

- Same old Boyzey.

- You don't want enemies, Etta, You want votes.

- Alright.

How's this?

While development is good, it's not good if it costs the people of this Ward their homes.

Better?

- Keep going and we'll see.

- You.

Why are you back?

- We come bearing gifts.

- I don't like jam.

Oh.

Well, uh... - It's my home brew.

hope you like it.

I know that you didn't throw the bombs.

I also know you were telling the truth about your car being stolen.

- Took you long enough.

- We need your help.

- Hence the jam.

- Go on.

- Did you see or hear anything that could help us identify whoever stole your car?

- I heard some laughing, giggling.

I look out my window and I saw these two college boys.

- Well, what did they look like?

- Little shrimps.

You know the type.

They come down to the Ward to do those things they don't want their mamas knowing about.

- And where exactly do they do these things?

- Annie's.

Speakeasy down the street.

- Anything else?

- They looked a lot alike.

- Enjoy your jam.

(suspenseful jazz) - Get a move on.

- Frankie, I should really get back to the station.

- I'll go check out this Annie's.

- So what are your plans, Miss Rose?

- I'm not saying the Ward can't be improved.

That's what I intend to do, because this city is for its people, not the developers.

- Why not?

People need jobs, and developers create jobs.

- You want to play Decker?

- I'm playing myself, and you're risking it all with this talk.

(Etta sighs) - What are your plans to develop the Ward, Miss Rose?

- There needs to be affordable homes, places for the community to gather.

A swimming pool.

A public gymnasium.

- All well and good, but how are you going to pay for this?

- Taxes, of course.

- No.

No-no-no-no-no.

Don't say taxes-- you never say taxes!

- The city collects taxes no matter who wins!

- But that's not the point.

- No!

My point is I'm promising to use tax money for endeavors that actually benefit the community not for development kick-backs.

- But to voters, "taxes" just sound like you're taking money out of their pockets for your pet projects.

- I happen to believe in what she's promising.

- I want all that for the Ward.

But you gotta get elected first, okay?

And that's about personality.

- My campaign is about policy.

- That sounds like a great concession speech.

- Okay, you know what?

You're not helping us here.

- You know, this has always been the problem with you two.

If you'd listen to me, you'd win.

But you're both too stubborn and I have no intention of being part of a losing team.

- Wow.

- You, uh, looking for someone?

- I am.

A couple of college boys.

- Well, the college crowd doesn't come in here 'til later.

You looking for anyone in particular?

- Apparently these two look quite a lot alike.

- Uh, yeah.

You know, it's funny, my, uh... eyesight's not that good.

I'm starting up a collection to buy myself some new glasses.

- Glasses?

- Yeah?

- Well...

Your eyesight suddenly getting better?

- Yes, it is.

Yeah, I know those two twerps: Rupert and Everett.

They don't let any of the other customers come around.

- Sound like upstanding citizens.

- They're not too bad.

They came in here waving a lot of money the other night.

- You don't say.

- Oh, I do say.

They bought a round of drinks for everybody in the house.

Then they were talking about getting paid for a job well done.

Didn't get into much details after that, though - Thanks.

- You're welcome.

- Ma'am?

- So Boyzey just left?

- Just like that.

- Is he coming back?

- I doubt it.

Just tell her.

- He said he didn't want to be a part of a losing team.

- So he goes from throwing all his resources at the campaign to thinking that he's fronting a losing team within 24 hours?

- He always did have an impetuous streak.

- Look, we don't need him, okay?

- Thank you, Trudy.

You're right.

- Did you find out anything about who was driving the car?

- I did.

- And?

- We found out where they hang out, but we haven't been able to track them down just yet.

- Well, it's something.

- And I've got something else.

I just talked to Mary.

They finished testing the residue on the firebomb.

- And?

- It's a firebomb.

Gasoline in a rum bottle.

According to Mary, the Toronto Police aren't exactly sweating bullets to solve this case.

(raucous crowd noises) - There's a new game in town!

Come on up!

Come and get it.

There's lots more over here.

I am Boyzey Pembroke and I'm here to give you a brighter future!

I'm here to give you prosperity no matter what colour you are.

Because there's no more important colour than the colour of money.

Aren't I right?

- Put that down.

- Yeah!

- What are you doing?

I'm running, Etta.

Filed my papers this very morning.

Like I said, I can't be a part of a losing team.

So, I just created my own.

(energetic jazz) - Why are you doing this?

- The world is full of people with good intentions.

And, Etta, the straight truth of it is: you're not going to win.

- So you were lying the whole time?

- No.

If I thought she could win, I wouldn't be doing this.

On my word.

- What makes you so sure I'm going to lose?

- I've talked to people.

And you got too many things going against you.

You're black, you're a woman-- - You're black too!

- That I am, but I carry a lot of green.

And that matters more.

- I am fighting for the Ward.

I'm fighting for my home.

- So am I!

And I can win this.

You can't.

- I thought we were friends?

- It's politics.

Sometimes friends don't matter.

- Friends always matter.

(energetic jazz) (energetic jazz) - Boyzey's running away with it - Looks like you could use a drink.

- Thanks.

Tastes like cucumber.

- Mm.

And rose petals.

I added cucumber and rose petals to the normal infusion of coriander and juniper.

- You know, if you ever wanted to quit the detective business, you got a calling right here.

- So, you really think Boyzey's going to win this?

- Yeah.

He's smart, rich, has friends in high places.

Everything he was going give to Etta, he has for himself now.

- Where's he getting this money from?

- He says his own deep pockets.

- How's Etta doing?

- Angry.

- Good.

- And she's not the only one.

Boyzey wants a fight, he's got one.

- Etta.

- Trudy.

- You sent everyone home?

- - You sent everyone home?

- Boyzey Pembroke is nothing but a blowhard.

He was like that in school and he's the same today.

- But he's good at it.

He's taken supporters from both Decker and me.

- I never knew that you were one to be a quitter.

- I'm not.

I'm a realist.

- What's that supposed to mean?

- I talked to Boyzey.

If he wins, he'll put me on the planning board.

- Planning board?

Doesn't seem to have the same ring as Alderman.

- No.

But I'll be able to make decisions about what goes where in the Ward.

- And you really believe he'll put you on the planning board?

- I have to.

If he wins, it's all I've got.

- No, it's not.

Get up.

Get up!

Come on!

- George Brown convinced me I could run and I lost my first election in '93.

Ha-ha.

Worked darn hard.

- But you ran again.

- Did indeed.

Won by 15 votes.

Won the next fourteen after that.

- Mm-hm.

- I heard you're worried about a little competition.

- I was thinking maybe Boyzey Pembroke -- he's the right choice.

He's accomplished a lot.

- So have you.

Seen it myself.

- People look at Boyzey, they see a man they want to be.

Trumps what I've got.

- Nothing wrong with a man who pulls himself up by his bootstraps.

Just a shame when he doesn't bring anyone else along with him.

- Mm-hm.

- And Boyzey isn't going to help anybody else up.

- So why did he join the race now?

- Because there's something in it for him.

That's got to be it.

- He's a developer, right?

- Right.

- What's he developing?

- Based on these reports, the Ward certainly does need someone to look out for it.

Poor sanitation, overheated tenements.

- There's not a chance Boyzey Pembroke's going to take care of any of that.

- Not as much as Etta Rose.

And look at this: John P., two years old.

Died of dysentery!

If I was coroner, I'd do something about that.

- Hey, you will be one day.

- What does Frankie need?

- She wants to know where the demolition will happen.

- I imagine that's highly confidential information.

- Yes.

It's not exactly something you would just give to just anyone walking in off the street... - So what do we do about it?

- Well, I have a plan.

- Highly irregular.

(Flo speaks with heavy accent) - Oh, well, I know.

- But necessary.

The Ward is a very important part of this city's heritage.

- And if it is going to be developed... - Oh, you mean destroyed!

- That's a matter of opinion.

If it's going to be developed, many buildings of historical significance are going to be razed.

- These are shacks.

- But significant shacks.

- Mm-hm.

- I implore you, please, in the interest of history, let us look at the most recent zoning map.

- Some property owners wish to remain confidential.

- Oh, well, we don't care about that.

- Preservation of the past is our only concern.

- I will need this returned.

- Absolutely.

Thank you.

And future architectural archivists thank you as well.

- Thanks.

Bye, now.

(lively fiddle music) - Excuse us, excuse us.

Thank you.

- We found something!

- Nice looks.

- Oh, you think so?

I'm kind of new to this whole undercover thing.

- You found something?

- Oh, we did.

- A numbered company made conditional offers on all these properties in The Ward.

- Most of which have been accepted.

- A numbered company.

That's completely anonymous.

- Could be Boyzey.

- I'd bet money on it.

- I mean, it would explain why he entered the race.

- If the numbered company belongs to Boyzey, and he's elected... - Then he could do whatever he wants with The Ward - And the closing day of two of these properties is tomorrow.

- That means we don't have much time.

Let's go.

(suspenseful jazz) (gasps in surprise) - Now, Etta Rose is a good woman, but she's a woman just the same.

And Decker has been in big business' pocket for years.

Even had him in mine.

Now, if you want to pick up this neighbourhood and make it prosper, you need a man.

A man with a backbone and a spine of steel.

And Boyzey Pembroke is that man.

Okay?

So remember who has your best interests at heart.

I will see you at the polls.

- It's all there?

- Counted it myself.

- Keep your hands off my money.

- Then how were we supposed to...?

- I'm just funning you.

- I guess we know who owns hat numbered company.

- Boyzey Pembroke.

- I have something.

Can you keep an eye on those two?

- Absolutely.

- Good job, boys.

Good job.

- You okay?

- Ah, was just thinking.

We were so tight back in the day.

- People change.

- I know.

I just... Never would have thought Boyzey would stab Etta in the back like that.

Think he was playing her all this time?

- Maybe he was telling the truth; he doesn't think he can win.

- That shouldn't matter.

(phone rings loudly) - Mary?

We're on our way.

Let's go.

- So, you think they're the bombers?

- Fit the description.

- Okay, so they're here.

What do we do?

- We need to get them outside.

- What are you...?

- Have an idea.

- Mary, we could figure out something together.

- Mm-mm.

- Why, hello.

- Hello back.

- I'm pledging with Phi Kappa Kappa at the university.

- Oh, good for you.

- Oh, thank you.

And I have to bring two handsome young fellows back to the house with me.

- And we're handsome.

- Well, you're sure as shooting are.

So, what do you say?

Will you do it?

Be a swell favour.

- Always happy to help a girl out.

- Let's go.

- Well, alright then.

Let's go!

It's not too far from here.

- Watch your step.

- Thank you.

This is going to be so much fun.

- Sure, is sister.

- What do you want?

- Let's start with the truth.

- I know that you threw a bomb at Etta Rose's campaign office.

- You don't know nothing.

- That's a double negative.

- What?

- So not only are they college boys, but they're stupid college boys.

- Was it your idea to blow up that building?

- No.

- So who hired you?

- Look, it's three against two.

- Three dames.

- You want to try us, college boy?

- Hey, you lay one hand on me or my chum and I will charge you with assault.

(laughter) - You think the police are going to do anything?

Two strapping young men beat up by a couple of ladies?

- They won't.

- How do you know Boyzey Pembroke?

- I work for him.

- You ever light a fire for him?

- Send any death threats?

- Like I said: I work for him.

- I don't believe it.

- I'm not sure I do either.

- There's no way Boyzey would try to burn your building down.

That's crazy!

(breathing heavily) - Well, crazy or not, Boyzey's been arrested.

- What?

- Did those two boys say something to the cops?

- No, the cops found evidence in his house.

A lot of it.

- Oh my gosh.

- He's at the station now.

- I can't believe he would do something like this.

- This evidence is pretty incriminating.

They're calling it open and shut.

- We've known Boyzey since we were kids.

Back then, he wouldn't even hurt a fly, much less his own friend.

- Even if that friend is his competition?

- What did they found at his house, Mary?

- Ah, well, there was a receipt for two cans of gasoline and a piece of paper with the campaign headquarters address written on it.

- So pretty much the whole megillah.

- They also found a bunch of bottles of the same type of rum used to make the bombs.

I thought Boyzey was a smart guy?

- A little too smart for his own good sometimes.

- Exactly.

If he was behind this, why would he leave evidence like this lying around his place?

- It's a little too convenient.

- So what do we do about it?

- Unfortunately, I don't think there's anything we can do to prevent him from being charged.

- Of course, now the police want the run of the case.

- Word around the station is that the Crown Prosecutor himself wants Boyzey charged immediately.

- Which means he's out of the race.

- And that just leaves you and Decker.

- But James Decker's been in City Hall a long time.

Rubbing elbows with some powerful men.

- Powerful like the Crown Prosecutor?

- Exactly.

- Do you think Decker's framing Boyzey?

- Sure makes it easier to win the election if your fellow candidate's behind bars.

- Where you going?

- To talk to Boyzey.

- You know I would never do something like this.

To Etta?

Of all people!

I would try to help her.

- And then you stabbed her in the back.

- Because I knew she wasn't gonna win!

Decker was a shoe-in.

At least if I won, she would have got to do some of the things she wanted to do.

- And you would have gotten exactly what you wanted.

- What are you talking about?

- I know about the buildings you put offers in on.

- Ah... yeah, I want to develop the Ward.

Make it a better place.

- And make you more rich.

- That is not a crime.

- Still the same old Boyzey.

- And still the same old Trudy: trying to look out for everybody except yourself.

- Wait, wait!

Okay, I-- I didn't mean that.

I'm sorry.

- You still have it.

- The watch?

Of course.

- After all these years.

- Well, why would I get rid of it?

I still remember the day you gave it to me.

Clear as day.

My first job interview.

- I remember.

- You told me I had to look like somebody.

You said, "If you look like somebody, you are somebody."

- Mm-hm.

- I never took it off my wrist.

And I never forgot that kindness.

- Look, I know you didn't do this.

And we're doing everything we can to get you out of here.

- Congratulations.

You made bail.

- How?

All my money's tied up.

- How'd you think?

- You?

After I entered the race, I thought-- - You thought we weren't friends anymore?

- Kind of, yeah.

- We go back too far for that.

- So what do we do now?

- Now we figure out who set you up.

- You're not out of the woods just yet.

- The boys made a deal with the Crown.

They said that you hired them to make the firebomb and to send the death threat.

- They're lying.

- They're family friends with James Decker.

- That's cozy.

- You and James Decker run in the same circles.

Is there anything you could get on him?

- I don't know.

Uh... Maybe, um... - Anything you got, we'll take.

- Okay, a while ago, I was close to the biggest deal of my career.

There's a big section of land on the edge of the Ward.

Perfect for development.

- You were going to buy it?

- I was trying to, but there was a development company who had Decker in their pocket.

They wanted it too.

- For what?

- The Eaton Company wanted to erect a factory.

Deal would have been worth millions.

- So what happened?

- There was one lady, a Mrs. Abigail Finch.

- I've met Mrs. Finch.

A real firecracker, that one.

- Yeah, no kidding.

She refused to sell.

She messed up the entire deal.

- So, where does James Decker come in?

- Well, if he wins, he'll evict her the day after the election; clear the way for his buddies to do the deal.

- So what would you have done if you would've won?

- Look, I talked to that lady plenty, but I was going to walk away 'cause I'm not kicking some old lady out of her house to make a couple of bucks.

- See?

There's the difference between a guy like you and a guy like him.

- Sure, but he's going to have the last laugh 'cause I tried everything.

I tried bribing, I tried begging.

I would have cried if I thought that would work.

- Well, maybe the negotiation just needed a... woman's touch?

- I have lived in this house since 1854 and I am not gonna sell it.

- We know some men have tried to convince you to... - Yeah.

Snakes and shysters-- all of them.

- Mrs. Finch, we have a way... - I have heard it all before, sweetheart.

You're not going to change my mind.

I was born in this house and I intend to die in it.

- You love your neighbourhood?

- Ah, that I do.

- Well, Mrs. Finch, James Decker is going to win this election and your neighbourhood is going to be gone.

- There's a way that you can save a small part of it.

- And get back at those snakes and shysters.

- I'm listening.

- On the brink of this election, I have an announcement that will do the community great good.

I've spoken to a representative at the Eaton company and we are able to announce that they are breaking ground on a new factory that will provide jobs for all the citizens of the Ward.

- Mm-hm.

- But that's not all.

Mrs. Abigail Finch and I have concluded a deal to sell her land.

In exchange for her property, the Eaton Company has pledged to build a community center that will be a great benefit for all the citizens of the Ward.

Mrs. Finch, would you like to say a few words?

- Yes, Miss Rose, I would like to-- - I did all the groundwork for this.

I can't believe you're trying to take the credit.

- You didn't do anything but be a snake!

You tried to take my land for nothing.

And threatened to evict me!

(boos) - Lies!

- Oh!

You calling me a liar?

- Okay.

It's okay, Mrs. Finch.

- Oh.

The only candidate who cares about this part of town is Etta Rose.

She came up with this idea.

So, if you care about this Ward, vote Etta Rose and not this vulture.

(applause) - Whoo.

Whoo!

- The polls open at eight a.m. - And if you need a ride, vehicles'll be available on McCaul Street.

- Now we can't tell you who to vote for, but we can tell you that Etta Rose is the only candidate in the running who actually lives in The Ward.

- And the only one who's going to fight to keep it your home.

- Names and addresses of every polling station in The Ward and your name in big bright letters.

I got a truckload of these out front.

- These are amazing.

Thank you.

How did you...?

- My cousin's a printer.

He did me a favour.

- I can't pay for these.

- No payment required.

He likes what you have to say.

Now let's take a look!

- Okay.

- Vote Etta Rose.

She's a good woman.

A real fan of the police.

And, besides, you don't want to spend the rest of your career picking up people off the streets who have been thrown out of their homes.

Here, how about another one for the bulletin board?

Here.

Anyone?

- Got enough people here to poster the whole town.

- Sure that's necessary?

The election's tomorrow.

- A lot of people decide who they're voting for on their way to the polls.

Let's make sure that your name is the last one they see.

- Thank you.

- You ready?

- Yes, I am.

I want you to know, win or lose, I'm grateful... - Don't talk about losing.

Whatever happens, you haven't done that.

- Look at us.

- What's that?

- Three women going to vote.

- Ah!

- Come along.

Hop in.

Next stop: polling station.

Here we go.

There's lots of room in here.

- If you're in line now, stay in line.

It won't be but a few more minutes.

- So, who'd you vote for?

- That's none of your business.

- Girl!

- Look, whatever happens, just know you're on the side of right.

Okay?

- Mm-hm.

- Yes.

And I just want to thank you for all your hard work.

No, we're still waiting on the results.

Thank you so much, again.

- Any word?

- Nothing yet.

- Boyzey said he'd call as soon as he found something-- - I had to tell you in person.

- Don't keep us in suspense... - You did it.

It was close, but you did it!

(cheering and applause) - Ladies and gentlemen, Etta Rose is your new Alderman for The Ward!

Yeah!

- Congratulations!

- Thanks for all your help, Trudy.

Oh, thanks to all of you!

- All in a day's work.

- A good day's work.

- What's wrong?

- Nothing, it's...

I just realized I have to find a way to do all those things I promised I would.

- Well, there's no one better for the job.

- You're just saying that because we're friends.

- Which means I know what you're capable of.

- Sorry to interrupt, but they're asking for a speech.

- Oh, don't let your constituents wait.

- Just one thing left to do.

- Fancy a game, boys?

- Maybe later.

- Well, you might want to listen to this.

I'm sure you know that James Decker lost the election.

- What of it?

- He won't have as much sway at the Crown Attorney's office.

Your deal's going to be off the table.

- Don't know what you're talking about.

- Well, arson and death threats mean some pretty heavy time.

You might want to reconsider your testimony.

Put the right man in jail.

- Enjoy your bagatelle, boys.

(indistinct, animated chatter) - Oh!

- I can't tell you how grateful I am to all of you.

Aw!

I am one lucky woman!

- You mean Alderwoman!

- You earned it!

- Here, here!

- It's not every day that the good politicians win.

- Just nice to be a part of it.

- Thanks for helping.

- Thanks for asking.

- Well, let's hear it for Toronto's newest Alderman, Miss Etta Rose!

(enthusiastic applause) - Now, what you all don't know is that as well as being an excellent politician, Etta and I used to sing together.

- Ooh.

You-- no.

- Come on up and sing with me, Etta.

Come on.

(crowd applauds heartily) Tickles, do you mind accompanying us, please?

- Of course, ladies.

- ♪ There ain't nothing I can do ♪ ♪ Or nothing I can say ♪ ♪ That folks don't ♪ ♪ Criticize ♪ ♪ Me ♪ ♪ But I'm going to ♪ ♪ Do just as I want to ♪ ♪ Anyway ♪ - ♪ And don't care just ♪ ♪ What people say ♪ ♪ If I should take ♪ ♪ A notion ♪ ♪ To jump into the ocean ♪ ♪ Ain't nobody's business ♪ ♪ If I do-do-do-do ♪ ♪ If I go to church ♪ ♪ On Sunday ♪ ♪ Then cabaret all day Monday ♪ ♪ Ain't nobody's business ♪ ♪ If I do, ♪ ♪ If I do ♪ ♪ If my guy ain't got no money ♪ ♪ And I say ♪ ♪ "Take all of mine, honey" ♪ ♪ Ain't nobody's-- ♪ - There's the third musketeer.

- There's gonna be a lot of big things ahead for you, Etta.

- I'll do my best.

- Oh, no.

We do better than your best.

You remember back in school?

Mr. Johnston?

- Och, do I!

- "I don't know why I'm wasting my time on you."

- "You three are never going to amount to anything."

- He didn't believe in us one bit.

- Mm-mm.

- Which is why we had to be better than the best.

- And look at us now.

- Look at us now.

- Look at us now.

(glasses clink) Closed Captioning by SETTE inc.