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The Company She Keeps (1951)
If no-one has any objections.
I was wondering if we might take Mildred Lynch first. She a possible parolee and she's been waiting for quite a while. Is it agreed? Mildred Lynch first? Well, if I might just have a chance to glance at her file. What's in the classification report, Mrs May? Mildred is popular in her college, though no-one can quite understand why. She's made no close friends, and doesn't seem to really like the other girls. But her manner is so ingratiating it seems to have got her by. What was her sentence? Indeterminate. At the discretion of the board. She is still reluctant to face real and difficult situations. However, she has to some extent overcome the handicaps of her early background. She attends church services. Catholic and Protestant. And attends the Alcoholic's Anonymous meetings. That's been one of our troubles with her. Trying to do everything. Naturally, when she feels it will impress us. Such an eager beaver. Doesn't have time to do her time here. I suppose we can continue our discussion later. Have Mildred come in. Oh, Mrs Crawford, you won't mind changing places with me? This way, I won't be so much in her line of vision. Sit down, Mildred. You are in here on a forgery charge, consisting of passing bad checks. Yes, ma'am. But I can explain it. I thought the check would be alright. A friend of mine said he'd cover it. You have a previous conviction in the county jail in Nevada? Yes, ma'am. For receiving stolen goods. A fur coat. Yes. But I didn't know it was stolen. You see, a friend gave it to me. Mildred. Mrs Harris is not at this moment asking for your excuse. That's all passed. Miss Holman and other members of the prison staff. Have been trying to fit you in to the life outside. We're bringing you here today to see if you're ready for it. I know you'll never have me back here again. We hope not. But other girls have said that before. They all make the same promises and they believe them. At the time. Yes, I know. Well, maybe they haven't become genuinely conscious of their wrong. A very good answer, Mildred. Oh, I mean it, Mr Neeley. You have to be corrected inside. It isn't enough just to let your hair grow back. You know, falsifying has been one of your worst problems. Not only the lies you've told us, but also the lies you've told yourself. You thought you didn't deserve to be here. That... What you did wasn't criminal. You still feel it wasn't? I know now, that all my life I was headed that way. I thought I could steal... anywhere. Even when I was a kid. Maybe I was lucky to get in here when I did. I've tried to improve myself in here, Mrs Harris. I've learned lots of things. Yes. We know all about that. But how do you feel about yourself? Well. I'm sure willing to take a chance on it. I can only hope you will. Where is your family, Mildred? Mildred... Was abandoned when she was eleven. Alright, Mildred. If you'll step outside so we can further consider your parole. Then it isn't definite? We'll call you. Wait across the hall. Yes, ma'am. Well, what do you think? She is pretty, Mr Neeley. I move to grant parole under proper auspices. I second that. As soon as provision for parole can be arranged by the Parole Officer. All those in favor, say "Aye". Aye. Aye. Aye. Opposed? Majority carried, didn't it? Have Mildred come back. I think she's a good risk. Sit down, Mildred. The board has just granted your parole. I'm sorry. I'm sorry. Well, there is certainly nothing to be sorry about. It's all so wonderful. I don't know what to say. Well, if you can think a minute, where would you like to go? Well, somewhere new, so I could really start over. There is one in your pocket. What about Los Angeles? We have a Parole Officer there who should be very good for you. That's okay. Joan Willburn. She's young and understanding. Some of the girls told me I could take a new name. I always went for Diane. Diane Stewart, I thought. Diana, the huntress? Who's that? Mildred, maybe I'm being a little too hard on you. I'm an old fogy. You'll have to forgive me. No you're not. You're sweet. You all are. You understand, that parole is just a continuation of your sentence? It's serving time on the outside. That being a prisoner still, you'll have no civil rights. When can I leave? As soon as the Parole Office can find a job and a home for you. You'll be informed. With your ticket of leave, you'll receive $25 in cash to carry you over. And a dress and a coat. A dress? What kind of a dress? One made here in our shop. Oh. That will be nice. Well. Let your actions on the outside thank us. I hope we're right. All of us. All? Oh, you wet blanket. My male instinct. Which warns me that this young woman... Is going to make things a lot harder for herself than she needs to. I would like to have spared her. Diane. Diane Stewart. I'm Joan Willburn. Hello. Oh. Hello. I was expecting a uniform. I was expecting you to be different. Any objections? No. That's up to you. Is that the going-away outfit they gave you? There was a blouse to it. I got too warm on the train. My car is there. Where's your bag? Over here. Cigarette? Thanks. We rolled them ourselves up there. Most people don't like them. So, what's the job? Nurse's aide in a private hospital here. If you don't like it... You shouldn't have done such fine work at the prison hospital. It won't be so bad. I'd like to be where there is life. Holy Toledo, Miss Willburn. Dames bossing you. Waiting on them. You don't know how I hate women. There are men patients, too. I like my men on their feet. I was talking about your work. Not your personal life. What did you have in mind? Waitress. Cigarette girl. I don't know. Like before? That didn't work out too well. Diane... it isn't easy to find jobs. Hospitals need helpers. They're even willing to take convicts. Is that it? It's only two blocks to the hospital. You'll save car-fare. You think of everything. Well, so your friend got here. Mrs Seeley... Miss Stewart. Hi. Well, I hope you're going to stay longer than that. After I saved that good room for you. I think it will be fine. What did you tell her? She know about me? You'll have to get over that. No-one knows. No-one has to. Except Mrs Haley at the hospital. And she doesn't talk. Don't you want to use it yourself? You've paid for it. Not too bad. I was in here earlier. Opened it up for you. And plenty of closet space. That's another reason I chose the hospital. Because they provide uniforms. You don't have to worry about work clothes. They don't have full length ones up there. They think anything below the neck is unimportant. Well... thanks for everything. And the flowers. We shall greet the parolee and welcome her to her new home. That's part of the job. And now what about dinner? Is that part of the job too? As it's your first evening, I thought we'd go out on the town. If the State is picking up the check. Anyway, I'd like to see your idea of "going out on the town". I'll pick you up at seven. Well... here's to a wild night on tomato juice. I'm sorry about that. But one of the first rules of taking... No drinking. I know. Well cheers, Miss Willburn. Cheers, Diane. And now for dessert. Meringue glace? Peach Melba? As you wish? I'll have a chocolate sundae with chocolate ice-cream and nuts. Lots of whipped cream and heavy on the sauce. Yes, madam. And for you, Miss Willburn? The same. Yes, Miss Willburn. Is that on the expense-account, too? Of course. Okay. If I was playing fairy-godmother, I'd admit it. Mr Collins just came in. He's in the bar. Shall I tell him you are here? Oh, thank you. I'll do it. Who's that? A friend. I'll only be a minute. Thank you. Now I'm not even supposed to kiss you? Not when I'm on the job. I can't concentrate. Not when you're out with a pigeon, you mean. These girls are parolees, Larry. Not convicts. Excuse me. Excuse me. Parolees. How about a drink? I can't. I'm sorry about dinner. Ah... The fourth time in a row. I know. I don't think much of your girl, either. I'll have another Martini, Jim. Baby, I don't know what I'm going to do with you. Most kids say: "I think I'll be a Countess when I grow up or a fireman or Jane Russell." But not you. No. You said, when I grow up I'm going to be a Parole Officer. I'll never have dinner with the man I love... As I'll always be eating out with a pigeon. Parolee. What do I have to do to get you to marry me? Rob a bank? I don't think that would help. I've been waiting a long time, Joan. Why don't you marry me and take me out of all this? Larry. Okay... I'll stop bothering you. If you stopped bothering me, I don't know what I'd do. Darling. Don't you think you're being very silly tossing me on the open market like this? I tell you. I'll be snapped up like hot cakes. I'll have to take that chance. Okay. Now, how about that drink? Tell you what, I'll buy you both one. That's a chocolate sundae with chocolate ice-cream and nuts. Lots of whipped cream and heavy on the sauce. Okay. Sure! Sure, that's what I had in mind. Okay, Jim. Tell Mr Connors I had to leave. I'll call him, Yes, madam. Diane. I told you I didn't want anyone to know here. Anyone. Turn that sign off, Diane. What sign? In big letters. "I just come from prison". No-one will know unless you tell them. Men always asks questions. You know that. I didn't have a story ready. Larry's a friend. Besides, I asked him here to see me. Because he's your friend? He wouldn't look at me I suppose? You'd be surprised. Look, Diane. I asked you out tonight because you're alone here. Most of the other girls have families to come to. This is a new town for you. You have no-one. You think that alone, I'd get into trouble. Is that it? No, that not it. It was your first evening. I wanted you to have a good time. So... it was nice of you. And now you don't have to see me again for thirty days. You report to my office on the 12th of each month. If you should need me in the meantime... I won't. I hope not. Well... sleep well and late. You don't have to report for work until eight o'clock tomorrow night. Night? Well... I thought I told you. The night shift? That's right. We'll see if we can get you on the day shift later. Hah... thanks for leaving the best until the last. There goes my social life. Goodnight, Miss Wilburn. Something wrong with rolling my own? It's a prison habit. I wouldn't do it outside. Goodnight. Thanks, Reg. Anybody else got a check? How about you, Diane. You've been here a week. For you, no charge. It must be love. I don't seem to be getting anywhere. Here, sign. She's waiting for a rich patient. Just you be patient. I'll be rich. Don't start on me. And don't charge me for that extra cup of coffee. You must have one evening off. When you get a convertible top on that ambulance, we'll go out with you. Man and wife. Diane. Go on, Tilly... go on. Hello. You said I don't have to see you until report day. You don't. I talked to Mrs Haley today. She's very pleased with you. She says you're very willing. Does she? I get along. So, I just cashed my pay check. Alright? Of course. I'll pay my room rent as soon as I get home. I don't owe a nickel. Good. Well. Thanks for not checking up on me. Goodnight, Miss Willburn. A friend of yours? A patient. I see her now and then. Every thirty days usually, down at the Parole Office? Who do you think you're kidding? Are you a parolee too, Tilly? Glad to meet you. Of Miss Willburn? No. Miss Johnson. Parole Officers are all alike. They stink. Yeah. Right. That's the way I used to feel about it. You'll get over it. Funny I didn't see you up there. I've been out a while. Make way, please. Thank you. The class of '47. What little green pen were you in up there? Ah... Dormer House. Still got the same matron? Yes. Mrs Baker is still the sorority house mother. What's a sorority? Baker's an old pop, but she sure was a good sorority. What's with you? I think I know him. You mean, you wish you did? My big idea is two to one. I thought it was after visiting hours. He doesn't know it yet. He's visiting me. What are you talking about? He happens to be a friend of a friend of mine. Look, Diane. Save yourself the trouble. You think you're out of prison? Well, you'd better catch it now. You got a wall around you a mile high. You'll find out. All we rate are crooks, petty thieves, and if we're real lucky... A great big...? Oh, I look like a paper bag. Try it off the shoulder. Shut up. Scramble your seams. That way he'll notice your legs. Yeah. I'll try it. How did you think of a thing like that? I have to. You're on duty, Diane. Yes, Mrs Haley. I see you two have found each other. Leave her alone, Tilly. She's doing fine. And I suppose I'm not? A warning is only fair. There's been quite a few things missing lately. Thermometers... Hypodermic needles. That's a sweet accusation! It's not an accusation. But you know who the first suspects always are, unfortunately. X-Ray me, why don't you? That's what I mean... by "fair warning". I want to see you girls get a break. Then search me any time you like. Come now. Get to work, Tilly. My leg's been broken a month, and suddenly you turn up. Why? Well, first. I like you, Cliff. Second, you're my boss And last but not least the... The cost of living has gone up so... Absolutely no. [ Door knocks ] Come in. Well, how's my favorite patient? Oh... oh, company. I can see you don't need this. Beer makes me sleepy. You sleep alright at night if you didn't nap all day. I've got Miss Hansen in the daytime. I'd much rather sleep through her than you. How about that, Larry? Not having seen Miss Hansen, I couldn't say. Something wrong? I just hate anything crooked. Don't you? Oh... excuse me. Nothing like a nice fresh bed. It makes a lot of difference, don't you think? I hate a mussed-up bed myself. Don't you? Sheets ought to be pulled nice and tight. No wrinkles. Cool and smooth. Nice soft pillows. There... all we have to do is get into it. Here we go. Thank you. By the way, this is Larry Collins. Miss Stewart. How do you do? How do you do? He used to be a good reporter. Now, he puts out the worst-organized column in our paper. You ever tried to read it? No. But I will. Thank you. A little higher. There you go. Thank you. Comfortable? Oh, yes. Everything alright? Yes, thank you. How about another blanket? Oh, no, no. Some water? No, no. Nurse Stewart, I came here to talk business. Oh... oh, I'm sorry. May I? Help yourself. Cute? Uhuh. And obvious. "Stat... is... tician." Oh. If you're the average reader, it's no wonder I can't get a raise. I wasn't sleeping. I was thinking. I enjoyed your column very much. Thanks. The parts I could understand. Now look, Miss... Stewart. Stewart. You seemed bright enough in there. And out here? Would you mind handing me that paper? Now then. Is it the first paragraph that perplexes you? Would you sit down please? With the possible exception of alert statisticians. You are aware that in recent years... There has been a drastic redistribution of the population of the United States. Most of the migrants, understandably enough, have chosen California... As their new home. The population, revealed by last year's census reveals that ten million souls... That means "people". Now reside in our State. Your elevator's here. Once again, more than a hundred years after the gold-rush. The eyes of American are turned towards the West. In simple language, that means that an awful lot of people are moving out here. I don't suppose you understood the second section either? Yes. Yes I did. Only I've never seen a midget auto race. [ Buzzer ] I'll send you a ticket sometime. I hate to do things alone. Well, I'll send you two tickets. I don't know anybody. Alright then. I'll take you myself. Now, can I go? Are they racing tomorrow? Its my night off. [ Buzzer ] I'll pick you up at eight. I... I said I won't be able to make it. Oh... I got to hooked for dinner. Yeah. Something my dear boss got me into. That should break your day. Well, of course if you don't know where to find her. Why does the boss take his friends to dinner? I'm sorry, Larry. Oh, darling. She can't be that bad. Oh dear. I did want to see you. I wanted to tell you... Oh, never mind. Another time. And try to have a good time tonight. Goodbye, darling. Excuse me. Look, you say I should go out and make friends. How can I when I haven't got anything to wear? But that's a very pretty dress. It should be. I've changed it, switched it, turned it inside out. Now I'll try it upside down. I don't mind all that, but I've just got to have a new coat. I know it's a problem. You don't. You don't care. What's the matter with the coat you have? A raincoat. Well, maybe it will rain. And why is it so important? Who did you say asked you? Rex Fisher. The boy in the Men's Room. Maybe he's not good looking, but he has a good job, and I'll meet a few people. It looks funny. What will I tell him? Where was I supposed to be before? A nudist camp? You are pretty, Diane. And clothes don't make the woman. They sure help make the man. Couldn't you loan me the money, Miss Willburn? An advance on my salary. No, Diane. I'm governed by rules, too. I'm sorry. Well... thanks. Sorry I bothered you. Have a good time anyway. You know what you can do. Molly, look at that coat. You just bought a new coat. Oh, I can't help it. This was made for me. That's a size twelve, dear. Well anyway I've just got to try it on. Come on. You own these? Not this one. Oh, Miss. Where are the short coats? Something light to wear when I don't need all this. Size twelve? Yes. What color would you like? Oh, something bright. I'm getting tired of this black. I've a darling little box coat. Kelly green. It just came in. It will be lovely with your hair. Would you return this to the rack, please. I've decided against it. Tired? You don't look so good. No. I'm alright, thanks. Oh. Your coat came from the cleaners. I put it in the closet. My coat? Yeah. The boy said you wanted it especially for tonight. Thank you. Oh, Larry. Larry, he's dead! I know he's dead. Well, if he is, he forgot to lie down. That's him walking away. Oh. Sit down in front. You sure you won't have a drink? No thank you. What do you say we beat it? Sure. No. I'll meet you at the door. Alright. The check, Mr Connors. There you are. Thank you, sir. Hey, Larry. Oh hi, Steve. What you drinking? Oh, I'm sorry... Come on, it's early. Order one for Joan too. This isn't Joan. Look, if that offer holds good, I'll be back in twenty minutes. Mr Collins. The lady dropped these, sir. Thanks. Just the same, Pete, but they're not hers. They are, sir. They fell out of her coat, right beside the table. That's quite alright, sir. Oh, by the way. I forgot. It fell out of your pocket. Oh thanks. And this, too. And this. Your money? What do you think? I stole it? Now look, I didn't... Like a pig's eye you didn't. Why don't you go on and call the Cops? All I said was... Look, genius. I'm an awfully rich girl just working at the hospital for laughs. Didn't you know? Sure. Sure I did. That's why I asked you out. You didn't ask me. I asked you. Diane. Leave me alone. Goodnight. Not like this. My coat is at the cleaners. I borrowed this one from a friend. I don't want to go into that. Well, you're going to. I didn't know the purse was in the pocket. I never even knew there was a pocket. I... Why do you make so much of it? I don't know. I didn't want you to think. I mean... I thought you thought... I guess you didn't, did you? No, I didn't. What are we talking about? Nothing. I made a mistake. About what? About the whole evening. You didn't have a good time. I didn't either. I'm sorry. Oh, it wasn't your fault. You didn't want to take me out in the first place. I made you. I planned the whole thing. The minute I saw you in the elevator... I went after you. Everything I've done. Everything I've said to you. Has been phony. Except this? Yeah. You were on to it, weren't you? Well my first job on the paper was covering acting classes. Was it that bad? Uhuh. But I wouldn't worry about it. Because if you're acting now, you're pretty good. You are pretty darned good. Goodnight, Diane. Oh. Are there any... are there any midget auto races on tomorrow night? [ Door knocks ] Miss Stewart. Miss Stewart. Telephone. Uhuh. Miss Stewart. Wake up! I don't want to wake up. I've been awake all night and I'm tired. Go away. But you're wanted on the telephone. I'll call back. Alright, I'll tell him. It sounded important to me. But maybe not. Him? Why didn't you say so? Hello? Oh hello, Larry. No. No, you didn't wake me. I had to get up and answer the phone anyway. Oh... it sounds wonderful. Five minutes? I couldn't possibly. No. I have to bathe and dress and fix my hair. Ten minutes! There she is. And it's all mine? Just about. I've never seen an ocean before. Hey, what are those? They're Sandpipers. Where have you been all your life? They're cute. Let's go down. Okay. Hey, look out. I got a swell idea for tomorrow. A nice, crowded, disgusting stuffy... old bar. We'll just sit there and drink. Not for me. I want to see things. You and your Sandpipers. Why don't you take your shoes off? It wouldn't do any good. I would pick the outdoor type. I've got a rock in here. Come on, lean on me. Thanks. I didn't know I was going to do that. Never kiss a man when he isn't looking. Unless he's the right man. For the stranger in town, a personally guided tour of the city of the angels. "Here you will find beauty." "Glamor." And culture. You like it? Well, never mind. It's culture. "Here too, they taste the joys of the great outdoors." "The thrill of the hunt. The kill." "Have you ever wanted to do battle with a monster of the deep?" "Splashing fins cutting the water a mile a minute." "It's hooked, it's hooked. You've landed him. One to the bride." "They throw the big ones away." "The sport of Kings. Pounding hooves. The cheer of the crowd." "A fortune won in a minute." "Your horse comes in. You've won. You've won!" "Your last two bucks become..." "Two and a half bucks." "Here too, if you're lucky." "You may find... love." And now ladies and gentlemen, I have another request. And here it is. The sky as it looked to Cleopatra and Mark Anthony. As they floated down the Nile together in her royal barge. One night, about two thousand years ago. And that ladies and gentlemen, concludes this evening's entertainment. At your Municipal Planetarium. Adventures Among The Stars. An official booklet. Can be obtained at the exit steps. Thank you, ladies and gentlemen. And good morning. Cleopatra. We're aground. Every time something important happens, are you always going to be asleep? I'll only be a minute. No hurry. I'm having a good time. Boring? A little. I like it. Our readers seem to like it, too. What are Sandpipers? They're little birds... with long legs. What's wrong with it? Nothing. All this about the stars. The open sea. The joys of catching a fish. It sounds like a man in love. If I didn't know you better... What? Plane ticket for tomorrow. Flight 25. Thanks Dan. Going to New York for a couple of days. Covering the fight. Oh...? I'll be there and see you off. As I was saying. You used to be a reporter. Now you're a poet. Look Joan, this is supposed to be in now. I'm sorry. So am I... it isn't that important. Larry. I've been thinking about what you said the other night. It wasn't very good anyhow. I'll do it over again later. Shall we go eat? Alright, Larry. [ Tannoy ] "Your attention please." "Constellation flight 25 with Sky King." "For Chicago and New York now approaching." "Passengers aboard please." Not even one for the road? Alright. Thanks, Larry. For the good time. We haven't even started. [ Tannoy ] "Your attention, please." "Last call for flight 25 to Chicago and New York." "Gate six. All aboard please." If you watch from up here, you can see better. Goodbye, darling. Goodbye, Larry. I've got it right here. Nothing in that says who I can and can't go out with. Maybe not. But as a Parole Office I have to interfere in any dangerous associations. Dangerous for who? You don't kid me. Mrs Haley says you've been absent two nights this week. I was sick. There are certain things you can't afford. You'd better learn them now. Such as what? Running around with people who have more money than you. Trying to keep up with the way they live. I feel like I came out of a 10-cent store. I know that. It's bound to upset you and affect your adjustment. You've already broken your parole. One drink! Just one? Believe it or not. How long do you think it will last for you and Larry? After he's dropped you... then what? Have you said your say? Yes. Then I'll say mine You've got green eyes. You're jealous a parolee can take something away from you. And I can, too. Break it off, Diane. That's final. Suppose I'm in love with him, Miss Willburn? If you are... Then it makes this a little harder. That's all. We all need someone, Diane. Someone right for you. Criminals anonymous? No thanks. I wouldn't like to set you up as barmaid. I hope it won't happen. A phone call for you, Diane. Long distance. I can't take it now. I said it's against the rules, but he said it was a matter of life and death. May I? This will keep you warm. I'll be right back. Just a moment until I get a pencil. You can take it in the Lab locker. I'll see that you're not disturbed. Thank you. You're welcome. This is Diane Stewart. You have a call for me? Yes, I'll wait. Hello? Well, I'm sorry I'm late. Hello, Larry? Larry, listen to me. Before you say anything. If you've heard anything, you've got to let me tell you. Oh... I know it doesn't make any sense. What? What did you say? Oh... Larry... Oh, Larry. Only it's been so long. No it hasn't. It's been two days and a half. You know I do. Yes I am. I'm listening. Leave right now, can catch the midnight plane and be in New York in the morning. I'll be at the airport to meet you. And don't worry about money. Get down to the paper and see old man Melnick. I can't, Larry. It has nothing to do with the money. I just can't. Larry, I can't. Please... Tilly! Do I meddle in your affairs? Keep talking. You know what they'll do to us if you're caught doing that. Keep on your talking or I'll say that you're in on it. Tilly, wait a minute. Are you crazy? Put them back. Sorry, I can't talk now. Diane, is something...? You're rubbing hard into my back. I'm sorry. Then it was... bad news? Terrible. [ Door knocks ] Yes? Phone call. Oh. Coming. It's a woman, this time. You got a telegram. I didn't want to wake you. Hello? Yes, Miss Willburn. No, I didn't forget. I know what day it is. I'll be there. Thanks. "If the mountain won't come to Mohammed, Mohammed has got to..." You see what I mean? How do you spell "indisposed"? The reason I was off the job so much last month. D-R-U-N-K. Shut up, you old forger. I'll help you with that. And we do not discuss parole issues in here. Hello, Diane. You have to wait for Miss Willburn. Yes, I know. Hello. Is Miss Johnson busy? Hello, Josie. Not for long, if you want to wait. Alright. Forget about that Police call, Beth. Why, hello Josie. This isn't your day to report. Well, I thought I'd drop in. Say hello to Miss Johnson. Hello, Miss Johnson. Hello, Helen. Hello Joe. Come on in. Your Susan is going to have another chance. Only this time you've got to help her. Strap those kids on her back. Make her take care of them. I don't know how to thank you. Don't thank me. Thank the board. I'll let you know. Harriet in yet? I'll see you in a minute, Diane. Hello, Mary. Hello, Miss Willburn. Leave it on my desk, Mary. Who didn't come in? Five of them. It seems like Fisher should give up. How about sending out an All Points Bulletin on Mrs Curtis? I'll find her myself. Any phone calls? Yes. Mr Collins phoned you. He said he'd call you back. I'll see Diane Stewart now. You can go in now, Diane. How's it going, Diane? Fine. What did you want to see me about? Just to see you. Look at you. You can tell a lot by looks. Do I look "adjusted"? Alright, Diane. You have to fill out the other side. Do that, you can go. [ Telephone rings ] Hello? Hello, Larry. What are you doing back here? Of course I will. Any time you say. I said I've work to do. I'll wait then. Miss Willburn? The office is closed, Peggy. I only want to see you a minute. I'm getting married. Why, Peggy. That's fine. To Johnny? Is it okay? Certainly. Send him in any time. So you have to talk to him even when he knows all about me? I have to go over your file with him. That's the rule, Peggy. But don't worry about it. You can come in with him. It will be alright. Fill in all the particulars and leave it on Miss Griggs' desk. Why don't you just do it? Why tell her? How can I? We haven't got civil rights. Didn't you read your ticket-of-leave? So what do you have to do? You fill out a request. If she approves it, she'll put in a recommendation. Then it goes to the prison board. They vote and there you are. Yes, Diane? He's asked me to marry him. I know what you're thinking. But I didn't trick him. I tried not to see him again. Miss Willburn... please. What are you going to do? I don't blame you. I know how you feel. I don't think you do. Without Larry coming to tell me... I can tell him. What do you want me to do? Help me. And don't tell him. Please don't. I'll never do anything to embarrass him. I promise. I have no choice. You're serving time. Parole is still part of your sentence. You forget it too easily. With him I forget. That's right. He treats me like I was somebody. Well. Have fun, Miss Willburn. Larry Collins, please. Hello, Larry. Oh, he did? How long ago? Oh. Thank you very much. So this is your private dungeon, huh? Not here. In there. Oh. It looks cozy. It's not. This isn't a cosy job. Can we talk? Funny. For all the time I've known you I've never been in your office before. No. Joan... there is something I have to tell you. I didn't know it was going to be this tough. Go on. I'm in love... I want to get married. I know. No. No you don't. I'm not talking about us. I know. Don't keep saying "I know". I can't help it. I do know. I suppose you know her name and what she eats for dinner. Her name is Diane Stewart. For dinner, she likes a chocolate sundae with chocolate ice-cream and nuts... Lots of whipped cream and heavy on the sauce. I'm sorry. Why didn't she tell me? Because they never do. They can't. If they could face the situation, they wouldn't be where they are. For a prison conviction for a bad check. That was her first felony. Before that, shop-lifting, receiving stolen goods. The first conviction when she was twelve. Now. Do you know what an indeterminate sentence is? Generally set by the prison board. Indeterminate because they vary. There is a minimum and maximum prescribed by law. Our board gave her five years. She served nearly two. That makes three to go. That's a long time. Can't we get her less? Not unless the board feels she's corrected. How can they know? How can anyone know? That's the point. Unless she's had a chance to prove herself. You can't correct a criminal. Stop it, Joan. The file is right about one thing at least. She does think and act like a twelve year old sometimes. Look around you. Who doesn't? At least she's trying to do something about it. Do you want to marry her? She's my girl. I don't know what to say to you. I don't know either. There ought to be a rule. Probably nobody thought the subject would come up. It's hard, baby. But it's going to be alright. What about her? Tell her, Joan. You'll get your civil rights. When? The board has a special meeting, Thursday. They'll get my recommendation in time. I'd like to talk to the board. The board has a rule. No lawyers, no lovers. But you don't have to worry about it. I'll take care of it myself. You interviewed this man at some length? I had the usual interview. As I wrote here. You consider that sufficient time... To ascertain his qualities as a suitable mate for this girl? No personal background investigation? A doubtful character we might investigate for months, but... Mr Collins is fairly well known. Why, I happen to be fan of his. On sports in particular, he's very good. But we also happen to be a fan of yours. We consider you a remarkable girl. Yet you doubt my report? Oh, this is unfair. Let her read the letter. Mildred wrote us a few days ago. The letter came up this morning along with your report. Whatever she could say was... Read it aloud, please. I'm afraid her business English doesn't do much credit to the course up here. "Dear board members." "Miss Wilburn..." "Is sending you a report about me wanting to get married." "Mr Neeley, and all of you." "Please, if she says anything against it." "There is something I think you should know." "I love Larry Collins and he loves me." "It's a little complicated between..." "Miss Willburn and I." "Because..." "She loves him too." "We had a fight about it before." "She warned me never to see him again." "So please try to make allowances in anything she says." "I love him and will make him happy." "Even if I am what I am." "And I promise as long as I live." "Not to get into trouble again." "Sincerely." "Mildred Lynch." That she had the urge and no faith in you to write the letter isn't the point. Is what she says true? Yes. And I did tell her to stay away from him. Then why did you bend backward in this report? Do you expect me to be unfair to the girl because he prefers her to me? Of course not. But you can carry your loyalty to these young women too far, Miss Willburn. Diane feels I'd let my personal feelings affect my duty as a Parole Officer. She made a mistake. So did I. I thought she trusted me. But. But surely you can understand why she didn't? When all her life she's never been able to trust anyone. Please give her back her civil rights. It's important. If you saw her face now, you would... Miss Willburn. We're not denying you anything right now. We'd like to put it off for a while. In this case we'd like to make an exception and talk to Mr Collins. When? I'll get him up here. No hurry... next month's board meeting. Slowly Miss Willburn, slowly. We'll see how things work out. Now we have other cases. I just don't know how she'll take this. Maybe that's important to find out too. What are you so droopy about? There's someone looking for you, Tilly. Excuse me. Is it okay? What did the board say? Diane. Why did you write that letter? The board did grant permission? Or did they? They will... they... They didn't get to it this time. Why not? I told you. They didn't get to it. You're lying. They did get to it. That's why I wrote them. To be sure they would. Diane, you've got to trust someone in this world. Like who? You? Time. That's the way you'll do it isn't it, Miss Willburn? No letters to the board. None of that stuff. Just a postponement. Time. That's what you're counting on. Oh, Diane. Hey, Diane. There's a call for you. I had it switched through the hospital. Give me a club and I'll go after her for you. Honest. Diane, we've only got two months to go. All my life all I wanted was to beat time. It can't be done. Up there... or down here either. They've got us licked. She didn't get rid of it did she, in the lunch wagon? The boyfriend is still in there. Got him spotted. You should have waited until you got in touch with Miss Johnson. The hall. Keep everybody away. What's the use of trying? You can't win anyway. Will you step in here, girls? We're asking a check tonight. What for? Routine. Everyone else has. I don't have on my fancy underwear. So, if it's all the same to you, some other time. Keep your head, Tilly. I'll help you. Now, please. You first, Miss Thompson. You have a warrant? Just asking for co-operation. Beat it, Tilly. Let me go. You can't frisk me without at a warrant. Save it for the jail, sister. More resistance, more time. What did you do? Pick his pocket while you were taking his pulse? So she don't want to be sociable. They can't hold us. They didn't find anything. Yeah? You never heard the word "suspicion"? It covers a multitude. I've been here three days under suspicion. You know why there is a big round up don't you? They're trying to get enough of us for a line-up. Tomorrow morning, I hear. They can't put us in one. You think not? You think you'll get out of it? Not this line-up. Ha, you just wait. I just hope they don't find my boyfriend. Ciggy, honey? I remember you. Mildred. The sewing shop. Lily... don't you recall? Was you busy. You made so many flags you were beginning to look like Betsy Ross. Always playing up to everybody. Mildred? She's doing scrumptious. Mildred. She's an honorary. A regular little teacher's pet. Stop it, will you. Why, we'll all soon be back up there. Personally I won't mind. They'll go easy on me. I've got a low IQ. I'm not going back. I'm getting out of here. Matron... matron! I told you to shut up in here. I want to see my Parole Officer. Please call her. No visitors after twelve o'clock. It's my right. I've got to get out of here. I have to get out of here. Please. The witching hour. Goodnight, kid. Hello, Miss Willburn. It's that girl. She called for me? Somebody did, I see. Oh, a Mr Collins came. He's already gone in. You let him in? Well, Mr Collins is a man you don't keep out. You know, we don't like people walking in on a line-up just for entertainment. We're after that stick-up girl. The one that's pulling all those jobs over on Third Street. She makes us nervous. Oh, and about that Thompson kid. We picked up her boyfriend. You know, you girls ought to take better care of your chickens. You one of the victims? Okay. Member of the family. That's all. Next. Come on, what's your name? Amy Bower. Where do you reside? What? Keep your eyes front. Where are you taking off your shoes these days, Amy? 404, Second Avenue. L.A. Since when? Four months. Talk up. Before that? Dallas. How much time did you do there? It's no secret you know. Speak up. Three years. Grand theft auto. What are you doing here? Suspicion of burglary. That's all. Next. Frieda Lockwood. I don't feel very good. A little hungover this morning, Frieda? What's a sweet girl like you doing dead drunk in crummy dump like the Bluebell? My boyfriend works there. Sorry this happened. Have you tried to get her out of this? I got no place. Just made thing worse. That's all. Any of you want to hold them for a further look? The second from the right, I think. Second from the right, stay. That's all, girls. Move off. Come on, come on. Get the line out... I'm going to try something. No, don't. Don't let her know you're here. She couldn't take it. Let's have a little more quiet out there if you want to hear them. They are all modest as daisies. Step it up, girls. We haven't got all morning. Speak Annabelle. Annabelle Burns. No address. I just got here. A nice welcome they give you in this State. What was found on you when you were picked up? A wallet. The first time I've heard it called that. You'll have plenty of time for jokes, later. Next. The nerve. Hauling me here on a line-up. You know where I am every night. Tilly Thompson. Previous offense, manslaughter. Paroled three years. Two months to go. Present offense. Suspicion of theft. Not exactly suspicion. We've got your boyfriend and he talked, Tilly. Too bad. Next. Lily Johnson. 248 North Central. And next. You. Norma Johnson. I don't live anywhere. I'm from Chicago. Hello, Miss Willburn. Too bad we got some of yours here. Do me a favor. Diane Stewart. Don't force her in the line-up. Those victims expect a crowd. 18 to 30. Slight. Medium height. I'll stand in for her. No stand-ins today. Diane, why did you send for me? Larry is not out there? Of course not. They told me they told him when he called the hospital. Diane, it will be alright. I'm going to see the judge myself. I'll get you out of this. Your turn at the pony chorus. Step up. Name? Margie Constance. Please, I'm going to be sick. Where do you live? Sixth Street. I forget the number. Any other numbers you forget? You! Put your hand down. Like 426a in the penal code regarding the possession of deadly weapons? Please, I need some water. John, check her out. We'll save her for tonight's show. Alright, sister. Put your hand down. I can't see. The lights are blinding me. Oh honey, don't get stage-fright. You're giving a wonderful performance. How will we bill you? Name, sister? Name, I said. Or do you want me to start talking? Mildred Lynch. A parolee. In the State Institute For Women. I live at 114 North Hope Street. What else? I don't know anything about any robbery. Even from the cabinet in the hospital? No. No, sir. Somebody got a question? I'd like to see her with her hair pulled back. Off her face. You heard the lady. Oblige her. Put your hair back. Don't do it, Diane. You don't have to. I warned you. You oughtn't to come in here. I don't care who you are. Out! Come on. Diane... don't do it! Come on... come on... Alright, sister. We're waiting. Do as your told. Next. It's almost over now. Please trust me. We'll have to hurry. The judge only promised us a few minutes. Some, we can never correct. Those we can, we've got to fight for. If you insist you acknowledge the arrest you must think of what it does to her. Another conviction won't go easy with her. Your board of trustees up there is pretty lenient... too lenient. I know many of the judges hate an indeterminate sentence. I can understand. But how can you in a few hours in a courtroom know her entire background? Not only for the... Punishment she deserves. But for the help she needs. Also, in a courtroom a judge listens to lawyers. You would make a good one yourself, Miss Willburn. If you'd said "honest" I would like that better. What do you want me to do, Miss Willburn? I can't just dismiss this. The girl herself admits she was guilty of interfering with these officers. Yes? Her interference didn't exactly mar my duty, Judge Kendall. Granted, she was wrong, but... We understand that on this particular night... She was working on him too, I see. Now that we know that she has no connection with the Tilly Thompson case. Anything you want to do is okay with us. The point is, Your Honor... There are rules laid out in the penal code that even our board can't ignore. If you convict this girl, it's got to add to her time. The charge, interfering with an officer carrying out his duties, is dismissed. With this provision. That the behaviour of this parolee be considered a parole violation. And the prisoner returned to the State Institute For Women. But Judge Kendall. As you say, Miss Willburn, I'm a busy man, so if you will excuse me, I'll... Just one minute. Please wait outside. Now. You said one minute, Miss Willburn. You won't have much more. One minute against three years. What? That's what she'll get if you send her back to prison. Are they still in there? Diane. Union Station. Mind if I go along? Leave me alone. I know what I'm doing. You mean trying to break your neck or run away? You still haven't reached the point. I think I have. If you send this girl back to prison. Nobody has gained a thing. Yes. If you don't, there's a good chance we'll have a decent, useful citizen. Just one moment. Please take that chance. I don't know... you are very convincing. Judge Kendall, there is a call for Miss Willburn. He said it was urgent. Tell him, quickly. This is Miss Willburn. Lost anything? Diane Stewart. She just left the building. She got in a cab. With a guy. We'd better pick her up before she gets too far. Thanks. Yes. I'll be here for a little while. Let me know. Well, there it is, Miss Willburn. You are a very persuasive young lady and I hope you know what you are doing. Because if anything should go wrong. It would not only be worse for the girl. It would naturally mean your job as well. Good morning, Miss Willburn. Know where you're going? Mexico? You're sure? Okay, come on and sit down. I'll buy you a drink. What will I do? Scobie! Scobie, get down from there. Get down from there. Sit down. May I? I told you the kid was too young to take on a trip, but no... No. You knew better. Thank you. Thank you. That's our train. That's your train, too. I kinda wish you wouldn't take it, though. You've been running all your life, Diane. When are you going to learn how to walk? The Judge signed your release, Diane. You certainly make it tough for me. I came back to tell you. I'm sorry I made things so difficult for you. Now... I don't know what to say. I don't even know how to thank you. You thanked me by coming back. Miss Willburn... That's alright. T-G |
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