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Anna Karenina (1948)
Oh.
What, the bathroom too? Matvey, what's to be done? It will blow over, sir. Her ladyship intends taking the children with her, and the cook is also leaving. Oh. Well, I'll lunch at the hermitage with mr. Levin. Who's that? The new english governess. Oh. No more french lessons. Mademoiselle roland was dismissed last night. Her ladyship found the letter. The letter? Your letter to mademoiselle roland. Saved! We're saved. My sister Anna is arriving from st. Petersburg today. Still thinking of your son? Yes, I'm afraid I was. I was wondering what he was doing at just this minute. Coming back from his walk, I think, with poor marietta panting behind him. Would you like to see his picture? I'd love to. There he is. Yes. Oh, he's charming. Isn't he? You know, he's a little like your husband, but what is nice about him, he gets from you. Now, I never know what my son may be doing. Perhaps it's just as well. Oh, why, countess? Have a look at those eyes, my dear, and perhaps you'll understand what I mean. He's very handsome. Princess, I wouldn't have failed to pay you my respects today, but I can only stay for a moment. I promised to meet my mother at the station. So the countess is deserting her beloved st. Petersburg? She can no longer bear to be away from her beloved moscow. She'll feel like that for about a week. My mother maintains that traveling kills her, but she spends half her life in trains. Besides, this time it's at my request she's coming. Kitty, my dear child, what are you doing? I'm sure count vronsky hates cream. Oh! I'm sorry. L... i am going to like it. Classical] Would you like some more tea? Classical] I was forgetting you, konstantin dmitrevitch. Perhaps a little. Have you enough sugar? Yes, thanks. Kitty? I... want to tell you why I ran away from moscow last year, and why I've come back again today. I'm afraid, konstantin dmitrevitch. Afraid? What of? Of hurting you. Then perhaps it would be better... if I didn't tell you why i came back again today. Kitty couldn't wish for a better husband. He's handsome, rich, brilliant... too brilliant. I should prefer that other one over there. He's a good fellow. My dear, you've no idea what women like. Nor have they, unfortunately. Konstantin dmitrevitch, i like you. I like you very much indeed. But it's impossible. Forgive me. Greetings, my dear count. Uh, greetings. Who are you meeting? Just my mother. You? My sister, Anna. Ah. Madame karenina. Yes. Do you know her? No, I don't believe I do. You must at least know my famous brother-in-law, alexey alexandrovitch. By reputation and by sight, like all our great statesmen. A walking encyclopedia, they say. Oh? Chiefly a colossal bore. I'm going to see if I can find my brother. Annushka, look after my bag. Yes, madame. Oh, here you are, are you? So you got my telegram? Indeed. Did you have a good journey? Excellent. I had a charming companion. Well, my dear. And how are you? Wonderful. Ah. Good, good. They tell me you've started a new love affair. I don't know what you're referring to, mother. Did you find your brother? No. Oh, your brother is here, madame. I'm afraid you don't know me. Yes, I do. Your mother and I have been talking about you nearly all the way. We've been discussing our sons. That must have bored you considerably. What else do you think mothers talk about? Well, countess, I've come to the end of all my stories. Had the journey lasted much longer, i would have had nothing more to tell you. Alexey, go and find Anna arkadyevna's brother. Certainly. Oblonsky! Oblonsky! Here. Anna. Stepan. How are you, dear? Terrible. I'll tell you about it. I've been counting on you. Anything serious? Get those people back! stand back. Stand back there now. Get back. Stand back. Stand back there. Stand right back there. It was a ganger. He was crushed. Oh, let's go. I hate accidents. Come away. Don't upset yourself. The carriage has just returned from the station... with Anna arkadyevna. What shall I do with the children? Well, it's too late now to leave tonight. Let me help you. You'd better get them off to bed. I'm afraid they won't go until they have seen their aunt. All right. All right, then. Dolly, I'm so glad to see you. Oh. My poor darling. He told me everything. I can't tell you how sorry I feel for you. No. I'm not going to defend him. We must talk it over, and see what can be done. There's nothing to be done. The worst of it is, I cannot leave him because of the children, and l-i can't live with him... after what has happened. I was a perfect fool. I knew absolutely nothing. For eight years I believed that i was the only woman he ever loved. I think... I think I know how men like stepan look at these things. In their hearts, they despise these women. Oh. Oh, yes, they do. And they draw a line between them and their families. Yes? But he's kissed her. I know. He's made you suffer horribly, and yet I can't help feeling sorry for him too. Dolly, he loves you, really. Do see him. He's so unhappy. Do you really think that he's unhappy? Yes. Humpty dumpty sat on a wall. Humpty dumpty had a great fall. All the king's horses... go to her, stepan. And all the king's men... couldn't put humpty together again. Katya, tanya. Miss hull, I think the children can go to bed now. Yes, your ladyship. But aunt Anna, we haven't seen you yet. Ivan. Well? Everything's going to be all right. What is it, kitty? How beautiful you look, Anna. Aunt Anna, are you going to the ball? Oh, do show us your dress. I will, as soon as you're in bed. Promise? Promise. Promise? Promise. When is the ball? Tomorrow, at the meskovs'. Come along, children. Don't bother her ladyship. Come here, child. Thank you, darling. You too, ivan. Come along, katya. There we are. Kitty, I know why you want me to go to the ball. You want everyone to share in your happiness. I met captain vronsky at the station, you know. Well, what has stepan been telling you? The whole story. His mother says he's quite a hero. But of course, mothers are prejudiced. What a pity your husband couldn't come. I can't imagine alexey alexandrovitch karenin dancing. He'd be quite lost without state papers in his hands. All right, children, you can go to bed now. My wife... the finest, the sweetest, the kindest wife a man could ever wish for. Anna. Dolly, dear, I'm so glad. Good night, mother. Good night. Good night, darling. Good night, darling. All right, children, you can say good night to your father now. Good night, little ones. Good night, good night. Good night. Now off to bed like good little children. There we are. Good night. Don't forget your promise, aunt Anna. No, I won't, my darling. Now I must hurry. I haven't even unpacked yet. Tell his excellency i just want a word with him. I'll wait here. Good evening. Do I disturb you? I just wanted to know if you're going to join us... at the club dinner we're arranging for wednesday night. It is nice of you, but you shouldn't have gone out of your way. We should have met anyway at the meskovs' ball. Of course! But then I... I wasn't sure you were going. Waltz] Oh, Anna, what a wonderful dress. Anna arkadyevna. Dear prince. Oh, yes, it's wonderful. Kitty, the happiness in your eyes... is lovelier than any dress. My dear. Anna, darling. Dance] Will you forgive me? Anna arkadyevna. Good evening, count. How delightful to see you again in moscow. You can't refuse me this, can you? My dear korsunsky, you know very well... i never dance unless I can help it. You can't today. You're much too beautiful. In that case, let us dance. I'm so sorry, kitty. I hadn't seen you. Would you care to dance? With pleasure, count. Waltz] Ladies and gentlemen, kindly take your partners for the polonaise. Would you do me the honor of dancing with me? I'm sorry, but I... i promised it to count vronsky. Are you sure? The mistake couldn't possibly have been his. L... i must have mixed them up. How stupid of me. Would you care to dance? Oh, do you mind if I don't? It's my shoe... it's been hurting all evening. Oh, I'm so sorry. It must be torture. Yes. Polonaise] stra: My cloak. Don't be ridiculous, child. You can't possibly leave before supper. I'm tired, mother. I'd rather go home. But you've scarcely danced at all. I thought count vronsky had signed your card for the mazurka. Gregori will take me home. Don't catch cold. And go straight to bed. Is she not feeling well? She's upset. What ever came over that young man, behaving like that? I told you, I always preferred the other one, my dear. Let's go into supper so that her departure is not noticed. I had her sent specially from ireland. She's on the small side for a chaser, but very game. A real beauty. I hope she'll prove a great success. Unless the going's heavy, i think I have a chance this year. Will you be there? I don't know. We often do go to the races. I haven't missed a military cup meeting since I was a boy. How beautiful your dress is. Well, Anna arkadyevna, are you not coming in to supper? No, thank you, countess. I'm leaving in the morning, and i think I should rest before my journey. Must you really go? I'm afraid so. But you know, I danced more tonight than I generally do... during a whole winter in st. Petersburg. So will you forgive me? It's been a charming evening. You should have stayed a few days more. The house is not the same without you. I must go, dolly. I really must. Kitty is not very well. She, uh... she sent her maid to say good-bye for her. You know, it's because of kitty that I'm going. She was so happy. And she expected so much from this ball, and I... i spoiled the evening for her. Yes. Captain vronsky danced a lot with you. Yes, but I'm really not to blame. Or perhaps I am... a little. But it was quite unintentional. You said that just like stepan. Oh, no. I'm not like stepan. Oh, dear. I'm going away having made an enemy of kitty, and I'm so fond of her. You will make it all right with her, won't you, dolly? Tell her that I hope they'll soon be married, and that she'll be very happy. Now where is stepan? I shall miss my train. Stepan! Coming, coming. Anna, you're a marvel. Up fresh and early after such a late night. Don't know how you manage it. You dance like a debutante. Do you remember the hearts we used to break together in the old days? Oh. Right. I don't know what I'm talking about. Is everything loaded up? Yes, excellency. Good. Then we'd better be going. Good-bye, dolly darling. Good-bye, Anna. I shall never forget what you've done for me. Remember that I love you... and always will, whatever happens. Now we must be going. Can't madame sleep? Not very well. What station is this? Klin, madame. A few minutes to take in water. Thank you. I'm-I'm going out for a breath of air. I didn't know you were going to st. Petersburg. Have you been recalled? You know I'm going there to be where you are... do otherwise. Ecause I cannot I'm sorry if what I've just said displeases you. I hope you will forget it, as I shall forget it. Not a word, not a gesture of yours shall I ever forget. How can i? Not a word, not a gesture of yours shall I ever forget. How can i? Good morning, excellency. Good morning. Inside. Annushka, my bag. See what a kind, devoted husband you have, just as in the old days, burning with desire to see you, my dear. Not too bad a night? How is sergei? Is that all the reward I get for my devotion? He's quite well. I let him come to see you. He's in the carriage. Oh! Did you have a good night, madame? Yes. Yes, thank you, very good. Count vronsky. I believe I have the honor of your acquaintance. It seems, my dear, you went with the mother... and came back with the son. You're back from leave, no doubt. I'm flattered you found so little in moscow to detain you. I hope to have the honor of calling on you. We receive on thursdays. I was very lucky to be able to come. I'm snowed under with work at the moment. Andrey! Andrey, here she is. My darling, have you been all right? I was afraid I'd never see you again. Aw. Come, come. What a fuss. Three days. Did I cry? Poor darling. She's dying of shame. Must he do that? He insists on a complete examination, my dear. No young girl should be completely examined. It's indecent. I know what's wrong with her, mama. It's nothing that medicine will cure. Just leave me alone with her for a moment. Well, doctor? Do you think i don't know? Believe me, it's not worth breaking your heart about. We've all been through this sort of thing. Oh, for heaven's sake, don't sympathize with me. It drives me mad. You think I'm breaking my heart over a man who doesn't love me. You, my sister... kitty. I'm not like you... swallowing your pride and going back to a man... who's betrayed you with another woman. Oh, dolly. I'm so unhappy. You must tell me everything. Did konstantin levin speak to you? Yes, but... I'm so unhappy. Where were your thoughts just then? I confess to my shame, still at the ministry. This report worries me. I'm playing a strong hand in denouncing the negligence of our administration. Nevertheless, the case is quite clear. I've tabled a motion before the imperial council. This motion, of course, will be different for each province, and the council... and you? What are you thinking of? Nothing. I'm afraid I was daydreaming. Forgive me. I was beginning to bore you. I must deal with my tiresome papers. Oh! You going out this evening? Had you forgotten? You promised to take me to the opera. Of course... but I'm terribly sorry. I shan't be able to go. Nathalia sharing your box? Yes, don't worry. I shall not be alone. Count vronsky will be there too... and dear betsy. That's splendid. Then I don't need to have a bad conscience. I could stay if you wished. Hmm? No, no, my dear. Russia's affairs don't require both of us to be bored. Go and enjoy your evening. I've known for some time that russia can do without me, but I thought perhaps if you... alexey alexandrovitch. Come in. Good evening, your excellency. Ah. Have you got everything? Everything, excellency. Good evening, theodore. Good evening, madame. Anna? Yes? Give my love to nathalia. Not in bed yet, sergei? But you said I could, mother. Yes, but not all night. No, mother, but I'm winning now, you see. Oh, I see. I'm going to the opera, darling, and I've come to kiss you good night. Good night, mother. You shouldn't have hopped me. I didn't see that. I was kissing mother. Now I'm going to take you. Would you like me to stay and play you at draughts? Oh, no. You always beat me. I've got a king. It's your turn. Go on. Good night, marietta. Good night, madame. Ah! Here's the table. Now we can indulge in our favorite vice. Put it here. No, I am a friend of Anna's. Yes, yes, so I can say this. Since her return from moscow, i find her very changed. There's something strange about her. The change may be due to the fact that she has a shadow following her. A shadow? The shadow of count vronsky. Your tongue is too sharp, my dear. It'll cut you one day. Anna is an adorable creature. - Oh, I'm not blaming her. - And because nobody follows us like a shadow, it doesn't give us the right to judge others. Anna, my dear. You've come just in time. How are you, nathalia? Good evening, count. We were talking about you. Perhaps I've come too early then. Not at all. We were saying you were the loveliest woman at the opera tonight. Lydia is always so generous. And truthful. Good evening, dear count. Thank you. My dear vronsky, how nice to see you. Are you well? Yes, and you? I thought you hated opera. For once I wish to be elegantly bored, like other people. Weren't you in Anna arkadyevna's box? Yes. You can't have been too bored then. Anna, my dear. Now, my friends, we mustn't keep the spirits waiting. Anna, will you join us? Anna, dear. Good evening. We are going to try and communicate... with the soul of a woman who was famous for her love affairs. No, thank you, really. Madame karenina is a free thinker. She doesn't believe in such things. On the contrary. I am horribly superstitious. I even believe in dreams. For some time now, I've had a nightmare which terrifies me... always the same one. So have i. I dream every night of birds... tiny little fragile creatures. The dream changes. And I am one of the little birds. Someone takes me between his two fingers, and stifles me. It must be hercules himself. My nightmare is less poetic. I see a little old man with a white beard, dressed in rags... and carrying a hammer. He strikes on something with a piece of iron, and I hear a clanging noise. I don't know why, but this image is closely bound up with the idea of my death. That's rather uncanny, isn't it? Shh. Everybody. Let's stop talking. Put your hands on the table. Finger to finger. General, your fingers must touch. Together. So now let's concentrate. Put out the lights. Oh! Shh! Shh! The vibrations are very strong tonight. Who's to ask the questions? But you of course, my dear. Spirits are your guests. I have had news from moscow. Kitty shcherbatsky is very ill. Really? Does that mean nothing to you? Yes, but what can I do? You are heartless. I wish I were. Spirit, are you there? If you are, and you wish to answer, knock once. What is your name? Feodora? Knock once for "a," twice for "b," and so on through the alphabet. I came to the opera tonight on purpose, to speak to you. This must end. Tell me what you want me to do. If you love me, as you say you do, give me back my peace. I know no peace, and I cannot give it back to you. I see none in the future, either for you or for me. I see nothing ahead of us but sorrow and despair, unless it be happiness... such happiness. Is it quite hopeless? For my sake, never speak to me like that again. Let us be friends. The princess has had the lights put out, as she is communicating with the spirits. Oh? Good. We can never be friends. You know that. I ask for nothing... but the right to suffer... and to hope, as in this moment. But even if that is impossible, order me to go and I will. No, I cannot do that. Feodora... she is here. Feodora, history says you were a great lover. Can you reveal to us... is love worthwhile? Not in bed yet? What a surprise. It is late, alexey alexandrovitch. I want to speak to you, Anna. Speak to me? What about? Well, let's talk, if we must, but it is late and i would rather go to sleep. Assuming that questions relating to feelings are matters of conscience, into which I have no right to probe, it is still my duty as head of the family to guide you. What are you talking about? Anna, you're not yourself this evening. Alexey alexandrovitch, i don't understand you. I feel that an indiscretion... such as you were guilty of tonight... may lead people to talk about you. Indiscretion? Tonight? I went to princess betsy's house this evening... to take you home. I noticed... or rather, it was forced upon my notice... that your conversation with count vronsky... attracted considerable attention. Isn't that typical of you? You don't like me to enjoy myself and you don't like me to be bored. I was not bored this evening. Is that what troubles you? Please don't crack your fingers. You know how much i dislike it. Really, I think you most inconsiderate to cause me this stupid anxiety... just when I have the greatest need of all my mental powers... and should be concentrating on important affairs. Please let me finish undressing. It's my duty to remind you of your obligations. Our lives are united by god. That bond can only be broken by a crime. Such a crime brings its own punishment. I really don't know what crime you are talking about, and I'm dreadfully sleepy. I love you. I consider jealousy to be a degrading sentiment, but there are certain laws of propriety... which cannot be broken without the gravest consequences. Have you no explanation? There is nothing to explain... except that I am falling asleep. March] Waltz] I couldn't let the day pass without seeing you. He is here? What if he is? I don't think of him. For me, he doesn't exist anymore. Why should we have to whisper? What does it matter? The only thing that matters to me in the world is your love. I want to take you away from here... forget everything but your happiness. You are my happiness. Hello! Anna. How are you, ma chere? I only arrived yesterday... just in time to witness your triumph. We'll see. Were you there for the last race? They went over like ninepins. Prince makhotin hurt himself badly. Those jumps are suicidal. Mind you don't break your neck. I'll take care of myself. I must go now. Princess betsy is waiting in her box. Shall we join her? So makhotin came off. Aye, at the open ditch. Just a devil of a leap. You'll have to be careful there. Anna, dear, you're looking worried. Those falls have frightened you. I think they have, a little. I can quite understand that. If I had someone of my family... well, someone i was fond of amongst the young officers... I'd be frightened to death. Don't distress yourself, dear countess. You will never be frightened to death. You'll never be fond enough of anyone. And what do you think about these races, mr. Karenin? That last race was nothing but a massacre. Danger, my dear lady, is a necessary part of these officers' races. Don't forget, the men who are riding today are soldiers. Danger is part of their training. Yes, but danger when it serves a purpose. Fanfare] They're just going to give the signal for the start. Ountess] I find it rather going to give fascinating myself. The start. [c if I had been a roman, how i should have loved those gladiators. All that blood. Bravo! what a jumper. Do you mean the gray? Yes. That's kuzolev. Come on, kuzolev. Watch this jump. Oh, no! Who's down? It's kuzolev. The gray has fallen. He's coming up. Who? Vronsky. Good! isn't that vronsky? Yes, in front. Come on, alexey! Come on, vronsky! Come on, vronsky! Come on, vronsky! Vronsky's in the lead! - Now for the open ditch. - The open ditch. We can go if you wish. Captain vronsky is down, but he's back up. Take my arm, Anna. We will go. Count vronsky is unhurt. The horse is going to be destroyed. For the third time, i offer you my arm. I brought Anna here. I'll take her back. I'm sorry, princess. I can see that Anna is not well. I will take her home myself. Poor child. How well I understand her. I am obliged to inform you that your conduct today... has been extremely improper. I have already asked you to conduct yourself in public... in such a way as to give no occasion for the gossip of evil tongues. Such a scene makes me feel there may be truth in such gossip. Perhaps I am mistaken. No, you are not mistaken. I'm listening to you and thinking of him. I love him. I'm afraid of you and I hate you. Do what you like with me. I very much regret to have kept you waiting. Not at all, not at all. Come in, please. Won't you sit down? Oh, my. Forgive me. Now, what can i do for you? Before I begin speaking of my case, i must insist that the matter is strictly private. I should not be a lawyer unless i could keep secrets, excellency. You know who I am? I know who you are. And I know the good work you are doing for russia. I have the misfortune to be a deceived husband. I wish to break off relations legally with my wife, that is, to be divorced in such a way... as to separate my son from his mother. Such feelings are by no means unusual in the earlier stages, but I often find my clients show a substantive readiness... to say, shall we say, come to terms. You're certain there's no question of a reconciliation? No, no. She is guilty. She must be punished. Good. And you're quite determined on the question of custody? I cannot let her profit by her guilt. Quite so. According to our laws, divorce is possible in the following cases, and only in the following cases. Let them wait. It's the lady, sir. Let her wait. Firstly, physical defects in either party. Secondly, five years' absence without news. Thirdly, adultery duly established. Am I right in thinking we are concerned with the last case? Yes. Oh. Good. Here a subdivision has to be made. Adultery by one of the married persons... and acknowledged by the guilty party, orflagrante delicto. Could you possibly arrange for one of you to be caught in the act? In my position i must avoid all public scandal. Then, excellency, we must have proof. What proof? Letters, for example. Yes, but remember, the ecclesiastic courts... who judge these sort of affairs... have a great liking for details. I must have letters with all details. What are you doing? What are you doing? I'm looking for some letters. You have no right. We have both assumed rights that are not ours. You despise me, don't you? A deceived husband is a bad part, difficult to act with dignity. What are you going to do with those letters? I shall divorce you, and obtain the custody of sergei. You cannot take sergel from me. With these letters, I can. You cannot take him from me. You don't love him as I do. He's mine. I couldn't bear it. And me? Has anyone ever asked if I can bear it? Has anyone ever... my deserted house, alone with my misery... my shame. I never wished to hurt you. Some things are stronger than we are. I cannot help myself. I cannot change anything that has happened. You are a good man. You could not be so cruel as to take my son from me. Alexey? Spare me my love for him... his love for me. In the name of love, people think they can do anything. Love has every right. Did you ask yourself even once if I loved you? What kind of love did you ever give me? Have I failed in my duty towards you? Duty. That's all you ever saw in me, another duty... together with your duty to the state, your duty to society... your duty to others. That is not love. I cannot understand you. I am leaving for moscow. I shall never return here. In the meantime, I must insist on the preservation of appearances. At any rate, until I've taken the necessary steps to vindicate my honor... which I shall communicate to you. But sergel... what will you do with sergei? My lawyer will answer that question. You cannot torture me like this. Please, leave me sergei. Please. I feel as if nothing has ever existed... beyond the walls of this room. I know that i should feel ashamed, but I don't. My darling, it's as if you'd brought me to life. Now I have nothing but you. Remember that. I suppose there is nothing I could say that would alter your decision to resign? No, sir. At ease. Forget my rank for a moment. We've known each other for a long time. We still, I hope, are friends. Of course. Men like you are needed. By whom? By russia and by society. I'm sure that russia and society can manage without me. How can I put it to you? You see, suppose you are carrying a burden, and you want your hands free. You strap the burden to your back, which is like marriage. Without marriage, you're dragging the burden and your hands are full. You have never loved. I'm married. I understand perfectly what I am doing. Oh, but, surely, her husband knows. He must know. Ah, dearest Anna. Good evening. Good evening. We are talking of liza merkalova. Ah. Is she here, liza merkalova? Opposite. Oh, yes. Still as beautiful as ever. And she has that fatal blend of innocence and corruption. Corruption? Oh, I say it with admiration, my dear. It's my tribute to a woman who can keep her husband and her lover... in perfect accord with each other for 10 years. The golden rule being that hypocrisies must never be outraged. What is the meaning of this strange conversation? Strange? A triangle is always a favorite topic. Is it? Liza merkalova has behaved very sensibly. Her menage has become almost respectable. Many young people are throwing their bonnets over the window, but there are ways and ways of doing it. Are there? She has obeyed the rules. She laid down no challenge to society so none has ever been taken up. She avoided catastrophe. Yet remains a subject of conversation. A light subject, not a tragic one. You see, one can take a thing too seriously and make a kind of tragedy out of it, or one can treat it quite simply and lightheartedly. Do you know, my dear, I believe you're rather inclined to the tragic side. Yes. Yes, perhaps I am. Forgive me. Shall I see you later? What is it, Anna? What's the matter? Oh, my darling, let us go away. We shall go, dearest. I shall have my release from the army in a month or so. Then we shall go. What have they been saying to distress you? Oh, nothing. Nothing really. But it's as if we were part of their own hypocrisy. So cheap, so contented. Anna. Attendant, quickly. And this, gentlemen, is my considered opinion on the matter. Well, I think you'll agree that our friend has done valuable work, very valuable. And... an urgent telegram, excellency. And that his report, as far as it goes, is well documented. Excuse me. Nevertheless, before we on this commission go further, i think we should take up the points which he merely touches. Now, what I am about to propose is no less than a radical and fundamental change... in the existing law. I'll take the night train to petersburg. Such proposals will, no doubt, cause a considerable storm. Nonetheless, I am prepared to face it. Gentlemen, let us hear what his excellency alexey alexandrovitch karenin... proposes upon this matter. How is your mistress? They say there is little hope, your excellency. The child was stillborn. Thank god, you've come, your excellency. She's talked of nothing but you ever since yesterday. I'm afraid there's not much hope. Anything for me? Yes, your excellency. The rest has been forwarded to moscow as usual, your excellency. No, no. Go away. I'm not dreaming. What do you want of me? Anna arkadyevna. Look, he has come. He's here. Who are you? What are you doing here? Doctor leveille. You're attending Anna arkadyevna? Yes, I've been called in urgently. I'm afraid she's had a relapse. Talk with you later. I'm coming with you. He would never have refused to come. He was so kind. He has eyes like sergei. Which is why I dare not look him in the face, because he has sergeI's eyes. Has sergel had his supper? You must not let him be frightened. Marietta must sleep in his room. It is me, Anna. I have come. Alexey. Come closer, closer, closer. I'm in a hurry. Soon i will not be able to... understand anything... anymore. Give me some water. I am going to die. Things are simple when you are going to die. Oh, no, no, Anna. You're not going to die. What was I saying? How badly painted those flowers are. A little bit like violets. Everything is confused again. It is so difficult. Oh, yes, yes. Yes, that's it. This is what i wanted to tell you. I am still the same as I used to be. The other woman in me, she fell in love. What weariness. Wait, wait. You don't know... i am myself again. I don't love him anymore. Alexey. There's only one thing I want. I want you to forgive me... to forgive me... completely. Better go now. She's asleep. Alexey alexandrovitch. I want you to listen carefully to what I have to say... so that you shall not misunderstand me. As you know, I had decided on a divorce and had even begun proceedings. I confess, I was swayed by motives of revenge. More than that, when I heard of this illness, I even desired her death. But now I have seen her and forgiven her. And the joy of forgiveness has made my duty clear. I'm willing to offer the other cheek. This is my position. You may trample me in the mud, make me a laughingstock to the world, but if she lives, i shall not forsake her... nor utter a word of reproach against you. If she wishes to see you i will let you know, but now I think you had better go. Hey, vronsky's dead. - What? - Vronsky's dead. Hey, wait a minute. He's not quite dead. Listen. "Count alexey vronsky, captain of the horse guard... "who had just resigned his commission... "accidentally wounded himself while cleaning his revolver. The wound is serious, but his life is not in danger." Do you believe it was an accident? Isn't it logical in the case of a military man? I hand in my resignation. I am no longer an officer. I take my revolver to pieces. It is no use to me now. But the revolver wants to remain military, so it goes off. Is that the oblonskys' coach? Hello, my dear boy. Hello. Nice to see you. Working hard, eh? What a surprise. You'll stay of course. Well, that's very kind. But we just drove over to bring you that new saddle you asked for. Oh, yes. Thanks. You'll find it in the coach. I think you'll like it. Yeah? Go and see it. Good morning. Good morning, konstantin dmitrevitch. I've done what no other girl in the world would do. Mother and father would die of shame on the spot. I'm glad you came. I'm sorry about my hands. They're so dirty. We've been harvesting. I knew you couldn't come back to me. I hurt you so much, so unjustly. And this morning when I read in the papers about count vronsky's accident, i felt so little about it, that I realized then it was... you I had always loved. There's no need to say anything. I was waiting for you. I am sorry you can't come to the wedding. Our presence together at this ceremony... might have silenced a lot of malicious gossip. I am sorry too. Please tell kitty from me that i hope she will be very happy. I'm afraid I can't give that message. Such a remark might make it look as if there were some condescension on my part. You're forgetting kitty's first engagement, which was broken off for reasons I need not mention. You must be very circumspect in society. As you wish. It is not important. Good night, my dear. Try to get some sleep. Sergei. Yes, mother? Come along quickly. We're late. Sergei. Sergei, you are going without kissing me good-bye? We're late, my dear. Sergel will kiss you when he comes back. Good-bye, mother. Sergei. Annushka. Yes, madame. Is everything ready? Yes, madame. But madame is still very weak. She ought to rest a few days more. I cannot bear it another moment. Lord god eternal... who unitest by an indissoluble bond those who are separate. Thou who didst bless isaac and rebecca, and showest thy mercy to their descendants, bless now thy servant... konstantin and ekaterina... and incline their hearts to good. ] [chattering] alexey, you remember the house we saw on our first evening in venice? You said it was like a palace. Out of a fairy tale. Yes. Well, it's ours. Ours? Ours for as long as we want it. That means until we die. Is there no one here? No one... until morning. Then I shall order all the clocks in the world to stand still. It's a little cold today, isn't it, enrico? Si, eccellenza. 21 september. Autumn. Yes, three months already. Look, they're russians. Hey! Hey! What are they doing here? Anna, come. I heard that part of the russian fleet n the adriatic. Well, why... why didn't you tell me? But they're cavalry. Look at their epaulets. Hey! Hey! Look, I must go and speak to them. Do you mind, darling? You want to very much, don't you, alexey? Shall I serve the coffee now, signora, or will you wait for the count? No, I won't wait any longer. Va bene, signora. Giuseppe, giuseppe. Don't be angry. He will be company for me. Vieni. Grazie, signora. Si, signora. Grazie. Hello, darling. I'm a bit late. What a day. I met two old friends. They took me to the ship. They wouldn't let me refuse. Well, you know how it is. A toast to the czar. A toast to russia. A toast to the regiment. A toast to the slavs. Well, you know how it is. As I thought, it's a troop transport. On board there were the second dragoons and the... they're on their way to the balkans. It's not war, not exactly. But the turks are in an ugly mood. We're taking precautions. There may even be some fighting. You went to dine alone, didn't you, darling? Yes, but a gentleman joined me for coffee. Oh? Giuseppe. Alexey, you know what i have been thinking tonight? We have been away a long time, and it has been very wonderful. But soon it will be winter, and venice is sad in the winter. And then I too would like to see russia again. I know that you would rather stay here. But all the same, let us go. Darling. And now, ladies and gentlemen, i would like to propose a toast to our friend. To our friend. Most grateful to you all. Indeed, thank you. Thank you. - We're delighted with the ministry. - Petersburg's most proud. Congratulations, sir. I'm very glad to see you again. I'm so glad for him. He's worked so hard on the committee. I quite agree. Of course your friends have been expecting it. Have they heard the news? Are they talking about it? I don't know how she dare show her face in st. Petersburg. Spoiled everything for me. My dear, in such an ordeal, friendship is not enough. In love alone do we find true support. In the love that he bequeathed us, he will help and sustain you. There was a time when i could've enjoyed these honors. I could've enjoyed sharing them. But now that I am alone, utterly alone, crushed by the ridicule i know people feel, though they don't show it to me. And yet, I don't know what I've done to deserve this. I've searched my conscience, but i can't find where I'm greatly to blame. No, indeed. You have acted in a fine, christian spirit. I'm most grateful for your sympathy. My warmest congratulations, alexey alexandrovitch. Thank you, princess. I have a message for you... from Anna. I was expecting it. I haven't seen her, of course. I couldn't very well in the circumstances. I am only a messenger. What does she want from me? She begs you to let her see her son. I suppose I have no right to refuse. You see no evil in anyone. On the contrary. Everything seems evil to me. I am not condoning her actions, but i understand her natural feelings as a mother. Well, there is a limit to everything. I can understand immorality, but I can't understand cruelty. How could she bring herself to open your wounds afresh? It's not myself I'm thinking of so much as my son. It might lead to questions which it would be impossible to answer. If she had a spark of feeling left, she'd never have asked it. I've made up my mind. Stepan arkadyevitch. A word with you. With pleasure, alexey alexandrovitch. Excuse me, my dear. Important business. Do excuse me. Have you reached a decision on that matter I was asking about? What matter? That vacant seat on the board of the mutual credit balance of the crimea railways. Should you happen to see, a word on my behalf... another matter I wish to speak to you about. It concerns your sister, Anna. E her situation is painful, i know. You may say she deserves it. But we, as her relatives, would be very grateful... if you'd do something to make her position a little easier. What I was about to say is that I've received a request from Anna. I would be glad if you would inform her that her request is refused. A divorce has become a matter of life and death. I'm not speaking of a divorce! Anna's life is now no concern of mine. I am concerned merely to safeguard my child and my reputation, which I need for the uninterrupted pursuit of my career. I'm sure you will be guided by the highest motives. No one can say I've not acted according to christian principles. Madame. Oh, madame. I've come to see sergei. I asked his father, but I couldn't wait for the answer. Oh, but... is he all right? - How does he look? Is he eating well? - Yes. And he's growing so fast. How tall is he? He comes up to here. Already? Marietta, i must see him. Let me in. No one will see me. Well, it isn't the same porter. And his excellency has guests. - But I must see him. - And... that's not the worst. His excelletold us to say... you were dead. The guests are beginning to leave. Come tomorrow, very early, before his excellency is awake. I'll let you in. What is it? I have come on behalf of prince skorodumov to see sergel alexeich. He's not up yet. He's still asleep. It's all right, kapitonitch. Come in, madame, but you'll have to be quick. Madame! It's against my orders. Sergei. Mother. Is it... mother. Yes, my darling. You haven't been to see me for such a long time. I know you're dead. I'm dreaming i can see you, aren't i? Sergei, I'm here. I'm here. Today is my birthday. I knew you would come. Madame, madame, you must go. Somebody is coming. Mother, you're sitting on my new dressing gown. My darling, how do you dress without me? How do you? Madame, please. Marietta, you will take care of him? Yes. He won't forget me? No, madame. How dare you enter this house? How dared you tell a child that his mother was dead? What should I have told him? That she had run away with her lover? I can only conclude that the kind of life you have chosen... has affected your principles. Alexey alexandrovitch, will you consent to a divorce? I no longer ask for my child. I beseech you to give me this last chance at happiness. It seems to me that you have everything you yourself have desired. Will you consent? You surely cannot refuse me. I cannot act against my religious convictions. I consider the matter closed. Please understand, i cannot my daughters are growing up. I have to move in society for my husband's sake. I cannot ask her to my home. She's no worse than hundreds of people you do receive. And you were the first to find her charming. As a traveling companion, yes. Not as my son's mistress. In the eyes of god, she's my wife. Let's call things by their proper names. Sorry, I didn't know... i was on the point of leaving. Good-bye, my dear son. I know the way out. Good-bye, Anna arkadyevna. Did you have a pleasant day? Tell me where you've been. What was your mother doing here, trying to take you away from me? No, Anna. Please. She's like the rest of them with their hands full of mud. Anna, I beg you. Don't speak like that about my mother. Oh, I assure you, it's a matter of complete indifference to me... what your mother thinks, or whom she wants you to marry. - Marry? - I've heard about the little princess sorokina. Anna. What's the matter with you? I feel I cannot go on living like this any longer, hiding from everyone. Alexey, let us go to the opera tonight. Why, you know that's out of the question. Why? Well, as a matter of fact, i shall have to go. My mother has asked me to meet her there. But you know why we cannot go there together. I don't want to know. What other people may say or think is unimportant. We love each other and nothing else should matter. Why can't we go? Don't you understand that... no, I don't understand. All right. Go with your mother. I shall go alone. No, not alone. Nathalia will be delighted to come with me. And if she can't, I'm... I'm sure there are plenty of people who will. There's no one like madame patti. She must have the world's most beautiful voice. Alexey, our little princess sorokina is talking to you. Oh, I beg your pardon, princess. Yes, madame patti has a very beautiful voice. My dear, I'm afraid he's lost to you and... and lost to me as well. It's your fault, all yours. I told you not to come. I knew it would be unpleasant. Unpleasant? As long as i live, I shall never forget it. It was hideous. She said it was a disgrace to sit beside me. Just the words of a stupid woman. Why let them distress you? It doesn't work with me in this intolerable position. You're what brought me to this. I've always known we must never risk insult, never provoke it. You say "we," but you mean me. You are free to go among your friends. It is I who must stay in the shadows. Do I behave as if I were free? In other words, you are a prisoner? You're doing your best to create a prison for us both. So you think it is a prison? You goad me into saying things with this insane desire for strife. I don't even know what it is, but i feel you are hostile towards me. If only you knew how near I am to calamity, how afraid I am, afraid of myself. Alexey, you haven't changed towards me, have you? Anna, you know my feelings for you can never change. But, my dearest, you must write to karenin and ask him for a divorce. What is it? L-i am sure that he will refuse. No, he will not refuse. He will accept, and then we can go together wherever we please, get married and live. Yes. Yes, all right. All right. I will write to him. But I would rather not wait for his answer in st. Petersburg. There is nothing to keep us here anymore. Nothing. Let us go to moscow. All right, my darling. Whenever you please. Tomorrow, then. Tomorrow. Oh, forgive me... for being so thoughtless, selfish and wretched. I love you, alexey. I love you. This telegram came for your excellency. Thank you. Who is it from? What? The telegram. Oh, it's from my mother. Oh. What does she say? She wants me to return to st. Petersburg to settle sothing about the estate. But we've only just left. It's an excuse. I know that if you go to st. Petersburg, you will not come back. Do be reasonable. It's... it's purely a business matter, a couple of days at the most. All right. Leave me. Go to st. Petersburg if you want to. We are not chained together. Anna, what's all this about? It's only the uncertainty of your position that makes you suspicious. Uncertainty? What do you mean? I am completely in your power. What is uncertain about that? Anna, darling. As soon as we hear about the divorce, we'll get married. And then you won't have to torture yourself any longer. Don't talk to me about the divorce. I've decided not to let it influence my life anymore. Why should you care about it? Haven't you written to karenin? No. No? Why? Why, Anna? If he agreed to a divorce, you would feel forced to marry me. I don't want to impose that sort of obligation on you, especially now. Now? When there is this conspiracy afoot between yourself and your mother. What conspiracy? That you should marry the princess sorokina. That's too ridiculous even for argument. I refuse to argue with you. We want a divorce. We need it desperately. Need it? Why has it suddenly become so necessary? Anna, you know as well as i do. It goes on and on. I want you to know this. I absolutely refuse to take any part in these arguments again. Has princess oblonsky visitors? Yes, milady. Prince and princess shcherbatsky and mr. And mrs. Levin are here. Oh, then I had... Anna, how nice to see you. I'm sorry. I didn't know you had visitors. I won't disturb you. But it's only kitty and the family. Of course you must stay. No, I... I'd rather not see anyone just now. Besides, they wouldn't want to see me. Anna, is anything wrong? You look so strange. Dolly, I had to come and see someone, and you were the only person. You don't despise me and condemn me too, do you? My dear, I love you and I always will. Surely, he loves you too. I don't know. I worry about it night and day. Sometimes I think I'm losing him, that we're being irresistibly driven apart. Darling, I daren't tell him that i have been to see my husband, and that he has refused me a divorce. Then... you can't get married. Oh, you needn't worry. I won't ask you to receive me. Oh. You know that you'll always be welcome in my house. It's kitty's baby. Do come and see him. He's a wonderful little boy. There's a revolution going on upstairs. You'd think it was the first baby to be born in the world. Kitty must hate me. Oh, I know she doesn't. And she'd be so hurt if you didn't go and see her. Please, Anna. Careful, careful. Young man, this is not the first time I've had a baby. Look who has come to see you. Anna. Aunt Anna. Ivan. She'll be fine, darling. Run along now. Dear, dolly asked me to come to see you. But if you'd rather I went away, you needn't be afraid to say so. I'm quite used to it. But Anna, konstantin and I have you to thank for everything. Look, isn't he wonderful? No one's ever had such a baby. Feel his weight. Isn't he heavy? Yes. It's time, madam. Oh, yes. Run along, children. Outside, go and play. Poor darling, must be very hungry. Will the gentlemen please go over there? Come along, konstantin. All right. All right. You're not too tired after all these people? Quiet, children. Recreation is over. Your tutor is waiting. Why are you here? I think it's you who owe me an explanation. What do you mean? You had no need to conceal from me that you'd seen your husband. Now you are free to leave me as I know you intend doing. You're completely overwrought. You said yourself it was impossible to go on living like this. If you no longer love me, it would be more honorable to say so. Why do you lie to me? Anna, don't try my patience. I've done everything you ever asked me. And now you accuse me of telling lies and being dishonorable. A man who reproaches me... and tells me he's given up everything for me is dishonorable. Tell me what you want of me. I want your love, but it is gone. Anna, that's not true. It's not true. But if you're determined to punish yourself, there's nothing i can do about it. You'll be sorry. "I have gone to st. Petersburg, and I shall return within two days." "I have gone to st. Petersburg, and I shall return within two days." But he will not. He will never return. It's over. I shall never see him again. He will marry the sorokina girl. His mother will force him to. He will love her. I will follow him and punish him. I will escape from him... and from myself. All these people. All going somewhere. Why do they trouble? You can't escape from yourselves. Sergei. I thought I loved him. It was myself i really loved. I exchanged him for another love. I could live without him. How self-satisfied he looks. He's ambitious. So was alexey. He was proud of me. Now it is passed. Nothing to be proud of anymore. Why not turn out the lights... when there's nothing more to be seen? What station is this? Klin, madame. A few minutes to take in water. Thank you. Klin. I must go out... For a breath of air. Ah, I loved him more and more. Selfish. He loved me less and less. Freedom he wanted. Nothing can change either of us. Too late. Yes, too late. Alexey. Oh. Not a word, not a gesture of yours shall I ever forget, nor can i. Klin. I met him here... long, long ago. It was snowing. |
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