A Little Princess (1986)

[bunniefuu]

(dramatic music)

(gentle downbeat music)

- [Captain Crewe] Carrisford.

- [John] My dear boy, how are you?

- [Captain Crewe] In the pink.

(chuckles) As you can see,

India's not been treating me too badly.

- It must be 20 years

and you still look like
a mischievous schoolboy.

What's the secret, eh?

- Indian magic.

- Must be pretty potent stuff.

Perhaps I should try it. (laughs)

- [Captain Crewe] You must be
parched after your journey.

Fancy a (speaking in a foreign language)?

- [John] If that's
something long and cool,

lead me to it.

- Said, (speaking in a foreign language).

I bet they have magic in Africa too?

- Oh no, no, no, not that sort.

African magic lies underground.

- Ah yes, I got your letter.

All, true is it?

- Every word.

- Splendid. (chuckles)

- Is that your wife?

- Yes.

- Beautiful woman.

How old was she when she died?

- 26.

- Ever thought of marrying again?

- No.

Now, look, about this scheme of yours,

I still don't understand why you need me.

- Well, I haven't got the resources.

Not for something as big as this.

- Yes, but, I mean, if it's
such a cast-iron investment,

I mean, why not go to the bank?

- I want you to have a
share in my good fortune.

You see, I've never forgotten
our school days, Crewe,

when you took a friendless
new boy under your wing,

invited him to stay with your
people during the holidays.

And now I've got a chance to
repay you for your kindness.

- Sure you don't want me
to lend you the money?

- Oh no, I'm quite sure.

I want you to have a share in the profits.

Which, according to the geologist report,

should be beyond our wildest dreams.

- All right.

There you are.

- What's this?

- A banker's draft for 100,000.

That was the sum you
mentioned in your letter.

- But I said that was
half the development cost.

I didn't expect...

Are you sure you can afford it?

- I can't afford to lose it.

But stocks and shares bore me.

I'd much rather invest in an old friend

whose judgment I trust.

- Well, thank you.

To old friends then.

- Old friend.

(glasses clinking)

And by the time I return I expect to hear

you've made me as rich as Croesus.

- And if not may your
goddess strike me down.

(both laughing)

Are you going on leave then?

- Yes, I'm taking my little
soldier on a tour of Europe.

- Your little soldier?

- My daughter, Sara.

- Ah.

- Yes, she's going to boarding school.

(horse hooves clopping)
(gentle music)

- [Mr. Barrow] Then I
may inform Captain Crewe

you will be expecting his
daughter early in the new year.

- Captain Crewe?

- Don't be under any
misapprehension madam,

my client may be of junior rank

but I'll wager he's wealthier

than all those other
officers put together.

- Crewe?

I seem to remember from
the obituary column

an industrialist of that name.

A Hampshire gentleman.

- The captain is Sir Gerald's
son and the sole beneficiary

of his considerable fortune.

- Indeed.

- Here is a note drawn on his London bank.

If you would be good enough
to fill in the amount

of the first term's fees.

As far as the girl's comfort is concerned

money is no object.

She has to have her own sitting room,

her own pony and carriage,
and her own maid.

- Her own maid? (laughs)

- I'm sorry Mr. Barrow,
that is quite impossible.

It would only cause resentment
among my other girls.

- Then I'm sorry too.

It seems I must look elsewhere.

- But, of course, if that
is the captain's wish

then she shall have her maid.

- A French maid.

He was very insistent on that point.

Good afternoon.

- Good afternoon.

- Money, no object, sister.

Think of that.

- Yes, Amelia. Perhaps it's
time we raised our fees.

- [Anna] You. (chuckles)

- But I don't want to
learn how to be a lady.

I wanna stay here with you.

- What's this? Mutiny?

You know how we deal with
mutineers, don't you?

- Yes, Papa.

- Up against the wall then.

Want a blindfold?

- No, thank you. I do not fear death.

- Very well then.

Firing party.

Present, aim.

- Oh, excuse me, Captain Sahib.

- What is it?

- I think perhaps the
prisoner has a last request.

- Yes, I have.

I want to take my books to England.

- Well, you won't need
books when you're dead.

- Oh please, Papa.

I'm not play-acting now.

- Oh, I'll buy you books. Lots of them.

French, German, Italian.
All first editions.

- But aren't first editions expensive.

- Oh, hang the expense.

We're gonna be very, very rich.

- We're rich already.

- Yes, and now we are
going to be millionaires.

I have just bought a half
share in a diamond mine.

- A diamond mine?

- Yes, so you see, you
can leave all your books

and clothes behind.

I'll buy you a whole
new wardrobe in Europe

and a whole new library.

- Oh, Papa.

I shall miss you though.

The books and clothes in the
world won't make up for that.

I shall miss you terribly.

- For the first few days perhaps.

Then you'll make new
friends, forget all about me.

- Never.

- Promise me one thing, little soldier.

- [Sara] What?

- Well, don't spend all your time reading.

Girls of your age should
be enjoying themselves.

Playing with dolls or something.

- Oh, I'm too old for dolls.

Except perhaps.

- Go on.

- A very special one.

A friend I can talk to
when you're not there.

- Right then, we'll go shopping in London.

See if we can find a very special one.

- Oh, I'm sure we shall find her.

She'll be there waiting for us.

And her name will be Emily.

(gentle music)
(horse hooves clopping)

(people chattering)

- [Captain Crewe] Are you
sure she's what you want?

- Oh, yeah, this is Emily all right.

She recognized me before I saw her.

- She doesn't seem very talkative.

- She doesn't talk, she thinks.

And only I know what she's thinking.

- Spare a penny, guv'nor?

For a pauper, I ain't got no home.

- Please, miss?

- All right then.

Here you are.

- Oh thanks, Miss
- Thank you, guv'nor,

you're a real gent.
- You're a real gentleman.

(horse hooves clopping)
(somber music)

- [Sara] I've got
butterflies in my stomach.

Do all soldiers feel like
this when they go into battle?

- [Captain Crewe] Oh, all
of them. Even the bravest.

(rain pattering)

- [Henrietta] Captain Crewe, Ma'am.

- My dear Captain Crewe,

what a pleasure it is to meet you at last.

And it must be Sara.

What a beautiful child.

It will be a privilege
to have charge of her.

- I'm not beautiful, Miss Minchin.

- Oh, you don't think so?

- No.

- (chuckling) Well, at
least she's not vain.

(laughs) Do come in.

- [Captain Crewe] Thank you.

- Please be seated.

I have hired a French
maid as you requested.

Would you care to see her references?

- Oh no, no, no. That won't be necessary.

I'm sure she'll do very well.

- I've also hired a pony and carriage

and Sara will have the
prettiest rooms in the house.

They are on the first
floor with a lovely view

of the square.

- Thank you, Miss Minchin.

Emily thanks you too.

- Emily?

- My doll.

She'll be my intimate
friend when Papa has gone.

- (chuckles) What an adorable
creature she is to be sure.

- Yes, Miss Minchin.

You'll take good care of my little soldier

for me, won't you?

She's all I have in the world.

- Set your mind at rest, Captain.

My sister and I cherish these girls

as if they were our own daughters.

Would you care to see your rooms, my dear?

- Yes, please.

- Mariette is looking
forward to meeting you.

Your papa and I have a
few things to discuss,

after which he will come
and take his leave of you.

Henrietta, will you show
Miss Crewe her rooms, please?

- Yes, ma'am.

(door knocking)

Mariette, this is Miss Crewe.

- (speaking in a foreign
language). Thank you, Henrietta.

(Mariette speaking in a foreign language)

(Sara speaking in a foreign language)

- So you speak French?

- My mother was French.

I never knew her but I
think that's why I found it

so easy to learn.

(Mariette speaking in a foreign language)

- I'm called Mariette.

- Yes, I know.

- I've been unpacking your clothes.

What wonderful trimmings
and fine petticoats.

Not even Marquis de Sade
kept such a trousseau.

- Would you like me to help you?

- Oh no, my petite.

Ladies do not unpack their own suitcases.

That is my task.

- [Sara] Oh, what a lovely room.

Don't you think so Emily?

We should be happy here.

- Good.

- [Sara] Thank you.

- I shouldn't like Emily to be homesick.

- This is your papa?

- Yes.

- Then I will leave you alone together.

Excuse me, monsieur.

(somber music)

- Well, little soldier, I'm
afraid the time has come.

- Yes.

Try not to be lonely, Papa.

- You too.

- Oh, I should be all right.

As you say, I'll soon make new friends.

- Such a stare.

You look as if you're
learning me by heart.

- I don't have to learn
you, you're inside my heart.

- And you're inside mine too.

You'll be inside it even
when you're 3,000 miles away.

Never forget that, little soldier.

- You'd better go.

You don't want me to see you cry, do you?

- No.

Mustn't cry in front of the men.

Frightfully bad form.

(gentle solemn music)

(carriage door slams)

(horse hooves clopping)

(bell ringing)

- [Jessie] She's got the
seven petticoats, Lavinia.

I happened to pass her room

while her maid was hanging them up.

I counted at least seven.

- [Lavinia] Ridiculous.

Who does she think she is?

- [Jessie] And at least 10 pairs of shoes

that were absolutely tiny.

She must have very small feet.

- [Lavinia] Oh, don't be so naive Jessie.

It's the way they're made.

Any clever shoemaker can
make big feet look small.

- [Jessie] Have you seen her yet?

- [Lavinia] From a distance?

She isn't even pretty.

- [Jessie] No, but she's
got an interesting face.

- [Lavinia] What's interesting about it?

- Her eyes I think.

They seem to go right through you.

As if, well as if she was summing you up.

- New girls have no business

to be summing anyone up.

It's us who should be summing her up.

(gentle music)
(girls whispering)

- She's got one of
those petticoats on now.

I saw it as she sat down.

- Oh, don't stare!

We'll make her think she's
the center of attention.

- Silk stockings too.

And she has got small feet.

- Oh, for heaven's sake, Jessie!

I'm sick and tired of
hearing about her feet.

It's the most boring subject in the world.

- Good morning, young ladies.

- [Girls] Good morning, Miss Minchin.

- Be seated.

First of all, I wish to introduce
to you your new companion.

Sara, come here.

This is Sara Crewe,

who has come to us from
a very great distance.

From India, in fact.

- India?
- Quiet.

(chalk scraping)

India.

As soon as lessons are over

you must make each other's acquaintance.

Girls.

Now, Sara, let us talk
about your curriculum.

Do you know what a curriculum is?

- Yes, Miss Minchin.

- Oh.

I assume that since your papa

wished me to engage a French maid

he wishes you to study
the French language.

- I think he asked you to engage her

because he thought it would please me.

- Please you?

I'm afraid you've been a
very spoilt little girl,

haven't you?

You mustn't imagine
that everything is done

for your pleasure.

- I don't imagine that.

- Well brought up young
ladies do not interrupt, Sara.

My impression is that your
Papa wishes you to learn French

and so that is what you will do.

Monsieur Dufarge will be here directly.

Take this book of elementary
grammar and study it

until he arrives.

- But I can-
- No buts!

Sit down, please.

At once!

And don't sulk, it is not at all becoming.

- I wasn't sulking Miss Minchin.

- You were looking cross,
which is much the same thing!

You must learn to do as you
are told with good grace.

(speaking in a foreign language)

- [Girls] Bonjour Monsieur Dufarge.

(Monsieur Dufarge speaking
in a foreign language)

- Madame, you have a
new pupil for me I see.

- Yes, Monsieur Dufarge,
her name is Sara Crewe.

Her...

Stand up, Sara.

Her father is very anxious
she should begin to learn

your beautiful language
but she seems to have taken

rather a childish prejudice against it.

- Hmm, indeed, mademoiselle?

Then I hope I may be able
to change your opinion.

I'm sure that after we
have studied together

for a few weeks-

- Monsieur Dufarge, (speaking
in a foreign language).

(girls whispering)

- There seems to have been
a misunderstanding, madame.

- Silence!

(gentle music)

- (gasps) blimey.

- [Cook] Ah, there you are at last then.

Where on earth have you been?

- Filling the scuttles, cook.

- [Cook] Oh, it doesn't talk half an hour

to fill the coal scuttles.

- The coal bucket is that
heavy with all them stairs.

- Don't give me none of your lip

or I'll box your ears for ya.

Get those hands washed.

Start peeling these potatoes.

- I haven't had no breakfast.

- Oh, you're too late for that.

If she doesn't get a move on

she'll be too late for lunch and all.

(knife slams)
(cook laughs)

- Your turn, mademoiselle.

(girl speaking in a foreign language).

(Monsieur Dufarge speaking
in a foreign language)

(girl speaking in a foreign language)

No, no, no, no, mademoiselle.

Not (speaking in a foreign language).

(girl speaking in a foreign language)

(girls laughing)

Please, please, young ladies.

Such an accent is not
a matter of amusement.

- We can't help it Monsieur
Dufarge, she's so stupid.

- Nevertheless, we must persevere.

Translate please, mademoiselle.

(Monsieur Dufarge speaking
in a foreign language).

- Good day Mr...

Butcher.

(Monsieur Dufarge speaking
in a foreign language)

- Have you

paid.

(girls laughing)

- Silence.

How many times must I tell you

(speaking in a foreign language), hmm?

Before we meet again you
will write it out 100 times.

- Yes, monsieur.

(Monsieur Dufarge speaking
in a foreign language)

(bell ringing)
Ah!

It is 11 o'clock. The
lesson is terminated.

Au revoir (speaking in a foreign language)

- [Girls] Au revoir, Monsieur Dufarge.

(bell ringing)

- What's your name?

- Ermengarde.

- Mine's Sara.

- Yes.

- I'm interested in names so
I looked mine up in a book.

Did you know the first
Sara was Abraham's wife?

Originally she was called
Sarai, the quarrelsome.

But it was changed by divine
decree to Sara, the princess.

- Is it true that you have
a bay room to yourself?

- Yes.

Would you like to see it?

- Oh, may I?

- Of course, come on.

- Oh! (gasps)

Isn't she beautiful.

Oh, may I?

- Not before you've been introduced.

Wouldn't be proper.

Emily, this is Ermengarde.

Ermengarde, Emily.

- She's beautiful.

- Papa gave her to me
as a going-away present.

(gentle music)

Do you love your father, Ermengarde?

More than anyone else in the world?

- Not really.

I'd like to, but he thinks I'm stupid.

And if people don't like you,

you can't really love them, can you?

- Well, I love mine.

But we're gonna be apart for so long.

- [Ermengarde] Have a good
cry then, I won't tell.

- (scoffs) Soldiers don't cry.

Papa's a soldier, you see,

and he taught me to
bare my wounds bravely.

- I cried the whole of my first term.

Even though I wasn't a bit homesick.

Silly wasn't it?

- Expect it was shock.

- Yes.

- [Sara] You soon get
over it though, don't you?

Once you've made some friends.

- I haven't got any friends.

- No friends?

How long have you been here?

- A year.

- [Sara] Oh, but that's terrible.

- I'm stupid, you see, and fat.

People don't want friends like that.

- I do.

- You really mean that?

You're not just saying it
because you feel sorry for me?

- It's myself I feel sorry for.

I need a friend too.

- But you're so clever and I'm so boring.

- I don't find you at all boring.

And I'll tell you what, Ermengarde,

if you'll keep Emily and
company when we're lonely

we'll help you with your lessons.

(thunder crashing)

- [Anna] I have been so worried about you.

- Carriage lost a wheel.

The driver and I had to spend
last night by the roadside

with no protection from the storm.

I believe caught the chill.

- Well, then you must get warm.

I've lit a fire in your study room.

- Thank you, Anna.

- And the Missy Sahib?

- She'll be all right.

Fine school.

(Anna speaking in a foreign language)

(thunder crashing)

- [Anna] The house has
been so quiet without her.

- Yes.

(gentle music)

Yes, to tell you the
truth I've been dreading

these first few days back home.

- You English, I'll never understand.

- What?

- Why you have to send your children away.

- Teaches them to stand
on their own two feet.

- Yes, but childhood is so short.

When she returns she
will be a young woman.

- Oh, for heaven's sake,
Anna, I'm miserable enough

without you nagging at me.

Let's agree not to...

- Something the matter, Captain Sahib?

- A touch of fever I think.

My head's swimming.

- I will bring you a hot drink.

(Mariette singing in a foreign language)

(door knocking)

(Mariette humming)

(door clunking)

- [Becky] Excuse me,
miss, any shoes to clean?

- Oh, yes.

Voila.

- They'll be outside the
door, miss, in the morning.

- [Sara] Thank you.

Who is that girl?

- Oh, it's only Becky the scullery maid.

- [Sara] But she looked so thin and tired.

- Yes they do not treat
her well downstairs.

- Really? It must be awful to be poor.

- Oh, do not concern
yourself, petite mademoiselle.

Fortunately, it is a condition

that we'll never, ever experience.

(thunder rumbling)

- [John] My dear Crewe,

I don't know how to
soften the terrible news

I have to tell, so I must
come straight out with it.

The geologist was wrong,
there are no diamonds

and we have both lost everything.

- Oh, my God.

- [John] My own grief means nothing to me

but when I think of the injury
I've done to you, old fellow,

I want to die.

Several times I've taken out my revolver

and put it to my head but
that is the coward's way.

My punishment must be to live on,

to face my shame, and your anger.

Consequently, as soon
as I can raise the fare

I will come to India and
beg your forgiveness.

Your humble servant,

for you will no longer
consider me your friend,

John Carrisford.

(somber music)

- Sara.

My poor darling.

(girls laughing)

(Mariette speaking in a foreign language)

- It's just luck though, isn't it?

I mean, that little girl,
we're about the same age.

It's just luck that I'm
not her and she isn't me.

- Not luck, it is the will of God.

- You mean God wants
some people to be poor?

- Perhaps.

- [Sara] But why?

- As a trial, to strengthen
their characters.

(Mariette speaking in a foreign language)

- (speaking in a foreign
language), Mariette.

(Mariette speaking in a foreign language)

(insects chirping)
(rain pattering)

(thunder rumbling)

(tray clattering)

- Sahib?

Captain Sahib?

(dramatic music)
(thunder rumbles)

(gentle music)

- Sara, dear, you will lead
the line, if you please.

(horse whinnying)

Lead on girls.

- [Jessie] Oh, yes, we
must have a princess

at the head of the line mustn't we?

In case us poor commoners lose our way.

- [Lavinia] I'm surprised

she hasn't brought her maid with her.

I mean, if her nose
starts twitching in church

she'll have to blow it herself won't she?

- Oh, do you think she knows how to?

- Of course not.

Princesses can't be bothered

with common or garden things like that.

They're far too busy dealing
with affairs of state.

- Stop talking, young ladies.

- [Captain Crewe] Anna?

- Sahib?

Oh, Sahib.

- These cramps are getting worse.

- Shall I send for the doctor?

- What's the use? He's done all he can.

- Perhaps you should
take some more medicine?

- [Captain Crewe] No!

That foul-tasting stuff
won't make any difference.

- Come, Captain Sahib.

You are young and strong.

You will be on your
feet in no time at all.

- I worry about you and about
the poor darling Missy Sahib.

Oh, Anna, what's to become of her.

- Set your mind at rest.

When she returns it
will be just as before.

We shall look after her together.

- She doesn't know about the letter.

I didn't want to spoil it for her

because it's her birthday soon.

I've ordered lots of
presents, expensive presents.

God knows how I'll pay for them.

She might as well enjoy
herself while she can.

(girls chattering)

- [Miss Minchin] Quickly and quietly.

- Becky.

Becky, wake up.

Your name is Becky, isn't it?

- Yes, miss, how did you know?

- I asked Mariette.

- But why?

- I felt sorry for you.

You look so thin and tired.

Don't they give you enough to eat?

But that's awful.

I shall speak to Miss Minchin about it.

- Oh, no, miss, please don't do that!

She'll throw me out in the street.

- Do you like meat pies?

- Oh, yes. Nice and filling them.

- Mariette and I are going
shopping tomorrow morning.

I'll bring some back for you.

- Oh, miss.

- Don't call me miss. My name's Sara.

- I know, but I couldn't
call you by your real name.

- [Sara] Why not?

- It wouldn't be right.

What with you being a princess and all.

- I'm not a princess.

- [Becky] No?

Well, that's what they call
you down in the kitchens.

- [Miss Minchin] Rebecca?

If I had wished to have my
stairs cleaned at this pace

I would've hired a tortoise for the job.

- It is not fair, Lavinia.

She's not nearly as pretty as
you, and very much younger.

Why should she lead the line every Sunday?

- Because Minchin's a snob, that's why.

I have plenty of expensive clothes at home

but I wouldn't dream of wearing them here.

It's frightfully common
to flaunt one's wealth.

- Little show-off.

It's disgusting the way
Minchin fauns on her.

"Sara, dear, come and speak
French to Lady Pit, here.

"I want her to hear your accent."

- [Lavinia] "And come
and talk to Mrs. Musclay

"about India, Sara, dear,
her son's about to enlist."

- Anybody'd think her father
was a general or something.

He may be rich but he's
still only a captain.

- Yes, a captain's daughter
oughtn't to be leading the line.

Don't you agree?

Fatty.

- What?

- [Lavinia] I said, Sara ought
to be bringing up the rear.

Don't you think so?

- It's not up to me.

- But if it was?

- I don't know.

- You don't know anything do you?

Except that Sara's rich.

That's why you've become her little toad.

- That's not true.

- Of course, it is.

And in exchange she
lets you walk with her.

As if you could ever get
to the front of the line

without your hoity-toity friend,

a fat, clumsy girl like you?

(book clattering)
I asked you a question.

- No, I don't suppose I would.

But that's not the reason I'm her friend.

Argh!

- So what is the reason?

- [Ermengarde] She's the
only one who's kind to me.

- [Lavinia] Kind to you?

You mean she buys you things.

- No, I don't mean that.

- [Lavinia] It's her
money, go on admit it.

- It's not her money!

- Come on, Jessie,
let's make her admit it.

- Right.

- Ow, you're hurting me!

- [Lavinia] And we'll go on hurting you

till you tell us the truth.

Why have you become the
princess's lady in waiting?

- Oh, please stop. Ow!

- [Lavinia] Repeat after
me, it's because she's rich.

- But he isn't!

Ow!

All right, I'll say it.

- It's because she's rich.
- It's because she's rich.

- You see Jessie without her money

she'd have no friends at all.

(Lottie screaming)

- Lottie, please just hush!

Will you stop this nonsense, please?

Stop it!

- What on earth is the matter with her?

- I don't know, she won't say.

Lottie. Lottie stop.

- Lottie. Lottie.

If you don't stop this
dreadful noise this instant,

do you hear?

I shall smack you. Ow!

I shall smack you very hard.

- Excuse me, Miss Minchin.

- Oh. Oh, Sara, it's you.

If you want to talk to me dear
you better come back later.

As you can see we have a little problem.

- Yes, I was wondering if I could help?

- You?

- I think I can make her stop crying.

May I try?

- What a sweet, thoughtful child.

Yes, well, in that case,
we'll leave her to you.

Come along, Amelia.

(Lottie crying)

- What's the matter, Lottie?

You can tell me.

If you don't tell me why you're
crying how can I help you?

- [Lottie] 'Cause I haven't...

'Cause I haven't.

- Haven't what?

- [Lottie] Got a mama.

- Neither have I.

- Why? Where is she?

- In heaven, like yours.

- [Lottie] Oh.

- Doesn't mean they can't see us though.

I'm sure they come out every now and then

to take a look at us.

Perhaps they're here now, in this room.

You wouldn't want them to
see you crying, would you?

- Well, I can't see them.

- No, when you go to heaven
you become invisible.

- Why?

- It's a rule.

Angels aren't allowed to be seen.

- You mean, my mama's an angel?

With a white nightgown and wings?

- Yes.

- But I don't want a mama I can't see.

- All right then, I'll be your mama.

Just till you're old
enough not to need one.

(carriage rattling)
(horse hooves clopping)

- Does everyone in heaven have wings?

- Yes.

- [Lottie] Why?

- Because it's such a big place.

If the angels couldn't fly

it'd take them ages to get
from one end to the other.

- But why do they want
to get to the other end?

- To see all the wonderful sites.

- What sites?

- Fields of lilies, streets of gold,

walls made of pearls and emeralds.

- But, why do they have
to wear nightgowns?

- In case they wanna go to sleep.

Flying's very tiring, you see,

and you have to rest every hour or so.

(door knocking)

- [Becky] Letter for you, miss

- [Sara] Thank you, Becky.

- It's from India, right?

From your dad?

That's why I brung it up straight away.

- Is that the only reason?

- Well, I was wondering if
you went to the shops yet?

- Yes.

I'm afraid you'll have
to run along now, Lottie.

- But you haven't finished
telling me about heaven.

- I'll tell you some more later.

I want to read my letter.

- All right. Goodbye, Mama.

- Bye, Lottie.

(door clunking)

The dressing table,
Becky, the bottom drawer.

- Oh, miss

How many can you spare?

- All of them.

They're all for you.

- Oh, thank you, miss.

What's he say?

- It's just to wish me a happy birthday.

- Oh, when is it?

- Next week, Tuesday.

- I don't have no birthday.

- But you must have,
everyone has a birthday.

- Well I suppose I do.

But I dunno when it is.

I was left outside the
hospital see, as a baby.

So I never knew me mum or dad.

- Ohm Becky, what a
terrible life you've had.

- Oh, it's not so bad now.

This place is better than the orphanage.

Only thing is when cook's
in one of her moods,

I don't get no food.

- Don't worry, I'll
always have some for you.

(insects chirping)

- [Captain Crewe] Anna?

- [Anna] Yes Captain Sahib.

- [Captain Crewe] I am so sorry.

- [Anna] Sorry?

- For being so stupid.

Can you forgive me?

- [Anna] There is nothing to forgive.

- I've brought you so much misery.

You and Missy Sahib.

May God

watch

over...

(Anna sobbing)

(gentle somber music)

(girls giggling)

- [Cook] Get a move on!

- [Henrietta] I'm going as fast as I can.

- The cake! Where is the birthday cake?

- Well, cook's still icing it, ma'am.

She sends her apologies.

- Well, one can't eat apologies.

Now, tell her to hurry.

I want everything here by half-past two.

- Yes, ma'am.

- Oh, good gracious, I've
never seen such a feast.

- Fit for a princess, wouldn't you say?

- Can we afford it?

- Oh, it will all go on
the captain's account.

Along with these absurdly expensive gifts.

- You certainly haven't stinted the child.

I thought you didn't like her?

- Oh, this is not for
Sara's benefit, Amelia.

- No?

- No, we have some
important visitors arriving,

or have you forgotten?

- Oh, Lord and Lady Attwood?

- Yes, it will do no harm
at all for them to see

how we celebrate a pupil's birthday.

Particularly as we are not paying for it.

- Look at that. (laughs)

(gentle music)

Voila.

Oh, it's just that face, my petite.

Are you not excited?

- Yes.

I just wish papa could be here.

- Oh, it's no use wishing
for things that can never be.

I'm sure he wouldn't like
you to be sad on such a day.

(door knocking)

Oh, someone has left you a package.

You know who left it?

- Yes.

- It's dirty and she
doesn't know how to spell.

- Oh, Mariette,

there are more important
things in life than spelling.

- You better hurry up.

- Well, look, she'll just
have to wait won't she.

Oh!

Hello, miss

- Happy birthday, miss

- Becky, thank you so much.

What a wonderful present.

- Did you like it, miss?

Really?

- Oh, it's beautiful.

I shall keep it by my bedside

so it'll be the first
thing I see in the morning.

- It's only cheap stuff from the market.

But you said you like
to pretend, didn't ya?

You could pretend it's satin
with diamond pins stuck in it.

- Oh, I don't have to pretend.

I like it just as it is.

- I made it meself.

Though the stitching's not very good.

- Oh, it's perfect.

It's the most perfect present
you could have given me.

Oh, Becky, I do love you.

♪ When will that be ♪

♪ Say the bells of Stepney ♪

♪ I do not know ♪

♪ Says the great bell of Bow ♪

♪ Here comes a candle
to light you to bed ♪

♪ Here comes a chopper
to chop off your head ♪

♪ Chip chop chip chop
the last man's dead ♪

(girls laughing)

- Put all boxes on the table
so that everyone can see

Miss Sara open them.

Rebecca, you forget yourself.

It's not your place to
smile at my young ladies.

- No, ma'am. Sorry, ma'am.

- Now leave us.
- Oh, please Miss Minchin,

may Becky stay?

- Rebecca. Why, Sara, dear?

- Because I know she'd
like to see the presents.

After all, she's a young girl too.

- No, she most certainly is not.

She's a scullery maid.

- Oh, please, Miss Minchin.

I know she'd enjoy it.

Please let her stay.

- Very well, Sara, since
it is your birthday

I exceed to your request.

Rebecca, thank Miss Sara for her kindness.

- Thank you, miss

Thank you ever so much, ma'am.

I did so want to see the presents.

- Well, go and stand
over there in the corner.

Not too near my young ladies.

Now, before Sara opens her presents

I should like to say a few words.

(girls groaning)

Stand back, please. Everybody stand back.

Now, we all consider our birthdays

to be very special occasions.

Do we not, Lottie?

- Yes, Miss Minchin.

- But in Sara's case, it is
an extra special occasion

because it will bring her one year nearer

to the time when she will
inherit a large fortune.

- From an army captain.

- It will be her duty to spend her money

in a meritorious manner, Lavinia.

That is why I'm so pleased

her dear papa has
entrusted her to my care.

For what use is money
without a good education?

- What use is good
education without money?

- Did you say something, Lavinia?

- [Lavinia] No, Miss Minchin.

- I hope you all appreciate
Sara's generosity

in giving you this party.

And I would like you all
to express your gratitude

by saying altogether, out
loud, "Thank you, Sara."

- [Girls] Thank you, Sara.

- Thank you for coming to my party.

- A very pretty curtsy, dear.

Right, well then, I shall leave
you all to enjoy yourselves.

- [Girl] This one, Sara.
Open this one first.

- Oh, books.
Oh, books.

- Fancy sending you books.

That's the sort of thing
my papa would send.

- I asked for them.

- Asked for books?

Why?
- 'Cause I like reading.

- Oh, the princess
likes reading, does she?

I suppose it'll teach
her to spend her fortune

in a meritorious manner.

- This one's in French.

Perhaps she's thinking of buying France.

- Don't take any notice, Sara.

Open this one.

- Come on, Becky, come and look.

- But the mistress told me
to keep me distance, miss.

- Well, I tell you to come
closer and it's my birthday.

- Oh, Sara, what a lovely hat.

Put it on.

- You look beautiful,
Mama, really beautiful.

(girl laughing)

(girls laughing)
- Sara! (clapping)

Your papa's solicitor has
called to see Miss Minchin.

As the refreshments are
laid out in her room

she suggest you take your tea now,

then she can talk to him in here.

- [Lottie] Cake, cake! I want some!

Birthday cake!
- I want

is a highly unladylike way

of expressing yourself, Lottie.

Now you can form into two ranks

and Sara will lead us to the feast.

In an orderly fashion!

(girls giggling)

- Oh, little high-spirited I fear.

It will end in tears.

Pray, do sit down, Mr. Barrow.

- I'd rather stand, thank you, madam.

- Oh, as you wish.

- Extravagance. Ridiculous extravagance.

Such a foolish young man.

- Captain Crewe?

- The late Captain Crewe.

- You don't mean he's-

- Dead, madam.

And he died a pauper.

- A pauper?

Oh, but that is not possible.

- All that's left in the
estate is a half share

in some African hole in the ground.

His partner apparently told him

there were diamonds at the bottom.

Must've been a swindler.

- Erm, but the party.

All these gifts.

I paid for them.

- [Mr. Barrow] Then you
too have gambled and lost.

- Why should I be the loser?

You are the captain's
legal representative.

It was you who told me to hire a carriage

and engage a French maid.

- I was merely carrying out
my client's instructions,

his original instructions,

which I can produce in court if necessary.

- And what about your
moral responsibility?

- We are not even morally responsible

for our client's debts, madam.
(Miss Minchin scoffs)

As a matter of fact, our own account

with the captain remains unpaid.

- You can afford it!

I can't!

This is absolutely outrageous!

- Please don't think me unsympathetic.

You have every right to be angry.

- And what about the girl?

Has she any relatives?

- None that I know of.

- Well, she's not staying here.

I shall turn her out into the street.

- Oh, I wouldn't do that if I were you.

- Why not?

- It wouldn't look well.

Penniless pupil sent packing
by young lady's seminary.

The story would soon get about.

- Then what am I to do with her?

- Why not put her to work?

And then she can pay off the debt herself.

She's a clever child, I believe.

And I'm sure she would
give you satisfaction.

Good afternoon.

(box thudding)

(Becky sobbing)

- Who is there?

Come out immediately!

Dear!

How dare you eavesdrop on
my private conversation?

- I'm sorry, ma'am.

I know I didn't ought to have hid,

only I was looking at the presents

and when I heard you coming
I just got in a panic like.

- What did you hear?

- Nothing, ma'am.

Except that poor Miss Sara
ain't got a dad no more,

and she's lost all her money. (crying)

- Leave this room this instance.

- But what will she do?

I mean she's used to
having a maid and that.

Would you let me wait on her

after I've done me regular duties, ma'am?

Then poor Miss Sara wouldn't feel so bad.

- Poor Miss Sara will wait on herself.

Poor Miss Sara will wait on others.

Now leave this room or leave my house!

♪ And so say all of us ♪

♪ For she's a jolly good fellow ♪

♪ For she's a jolly good fellow ♪

♪ For she's a jolly good fellow ♪

♪ And so say all of us ♪

- Young ladies!
(girls applauding)

Young ladies, silence.

You will all go upstairs,
change out of your party frocks,

and assemble in the schoolroom.

(all groaning)

Sara, you will remain here.

Quickly.

- [Amelia] Quickstep everybody, quick.

- [Miss Minchin] Come along,
come along, come along.

- [Amelia] Slow coach, Ermengarde.

- Quickly.
- Come along.

What's the matter, sister?

(Amelia speaking faintly)
(somber music)

(door thuds)

- Now, I want no crying
and no unpleasant scenes.

I have some bad news.

- Not papa?

- He's dead.

And before he died he lost
every penny of his fortune.

You are left a pauper, on my hands.

- Dead?

- [Miss Minchin] You are a beggar, Sara,

and it appears you have no other relative

to take care of you.

- Papa, dead.

- Don't you understand what I'm saying?

You are quite alone in the world.

Entirely dependent on my charity.

There'll be no more of your grand airs.

No more of this princess nonsense.

Ridiculous expense finery belongs to me

and it'll have to be sold,
pay for all of this. (blowing)

If I choose to give you shelter

you must work for your living.

- Work?

Yes, if I can work it won't hurt so much.

What must I do?

- You must do whatever I tell you to do.

Have you got a black dress

in that sumptuous wardrobe upstairs?

- Yes, but it's too small for me.

- Go and put it on

and take those ridiculous
ringlets out of your hair.

And then I will show you
to your new quarters.

Wait!

Aren't you going to thank me?

- Thank you?

- For my kindness, in giving you a home.

- No, Miss Minchin, you are not
kind and this is not a home.

(door clunking)

(bird chirping)

What will you do Mariette?

- Seek a new position, of course.

Find an employer who can
afford to pay my wages.

- Please forgive Papa.

I'm sure it wasn't his fault
that he lost all his money.

- Perhaps I should have
asked to see his references.

- Wasn't my fault either.

- [Mariette] Did I say that it was?

- No, but you just seem so
cold as if you blamed me.

Don't you like me anymore?

- I do not dislike you
and I wish you well.

Now, I must think of myself.

- Yes, yes of course.

- [Miss Minchin] Are, you ready Sara?

- [Sara] Yes, Miss Minchin.

(bird chirping)

- Then come along.

(somber music)
(wind whistling)

(door creaking)
(door slams)

(somber music)
(wind whistling)

- [Becky] Miss!

Miss!

Time to get up, miss

- It's real.

Thought it was a horrible dream.

(gentle solemn music)
(girls chattering)

- You're late, Sara.

- I'm sorry, Miss Minchin.

- Don't let it occur again.

And in future, you will
address me as ma'am.

(Lavinia laughs)

Well?

- Yes, ma'am.

- Now, you will begin your duties

by helping with the younger children.

See that they behave and
do not waste their food.

Lottie has already upset
her milk. (tutting)

- Yes, ma'am.

- Come along everyone.

Get on.
- Is it true, Mama?

Are you really poor now?

- Yes, Lottie.

- As poor as the beggar?

- No, beggars have nowhere to live.

At least I have a room of my own.

- [Lottie] A new room?

- Yes.

- Is it nice? Can I come and see it?

- I don't think that
would be a very good idea.

- Why not?

- Miss Minchin wouldn't approve.

- She can't stop me.

You're my mama.

- No, Lottie, not anymore.

You don't really want a poor mama, do you?

- I wouldn't mind, but
I don't like your dress.

- Ermengarde.

- Neither do I.

- Why did you wear it then?

- Don't ask so many questions.

Get on with your breakfast.

- Yes, come along, dear.

You will no longer associate
with the other pupils.

When you are not helping

the younger children with their revision

you will lead a separate life,

one more suited to your
changed circumstances.

Is that clear?

- Yes, ma'am.

- And you will not behave
like an ill-used heroine.

I do not want my girls
writing to their parents

that you have been badly treated

because you're not being badly treated.

I have given you a home and
that is a great deal more

than you have any right to expect.

(bell ringing)

Come.

During the rest of the day,
you will be at cook's disposal.

In the evening,

when you have finished
your household duties...

Quietly in the corridor,

You may concentrate on your education.

Take whatever books you require

and study them in the privacy of your room

away from the other girls.

Still no word of thanks?

- Thank you, ma'am.

- That's better.

Now go down to the kitchen

and see what cook wants you to do.

(Sara sighs)

(tray rattling)

(horse hooves clopping)
(pan bubbling)

- Oh.

Well, well, well not much
of a princess now are we?

- Sold your tiara have you, love?

Nevermind, if you work hard

you can buy another one next week.

- Don't tease her, Henrietta.

She's just lost her dad.

- So? I lost my dad when I was seven.

And good riddance too, drunken brute.

- Right, you can start
by scrubbing this floor.

Oh, sorry to spoil them
lily-white hands of yours, love,

but now you're a member
of the working classes

you can forget about looking pretty.

Come on. Through here.

Bucket's under the sink.

- Where's the mop?

- The mop?

I didn't say mop the floor, did I?

I said scrub it, with a brush.

That means getting down
on your hands and knees.

- Here, I'll fill it for ya.

- No you won't, let her do it herself.

She's got to learn sometime.

Right, now put the soap flakes in.

(water pouring)

(laughs) Lord bless us!

You're not in a doll's kitchen now.

Take a proper handful so you
can work up a nice lather.

(water pouring)

(water sploshing)

Right, now, back in there.

Come on, we haven't got all day.

We've got bread to make.

Start here.

(solemn music)
(brush scrubbing)

Sara, you blacked them shoes yet?

(brush scrubbing)

- [Henrietta] Take that coal bucket

up to Miss Lavinia's room.

- [Cook] You've still that grate
to clean out yet, you know.

(brush scrubbing)

Look at the princess, Henrietta.

You ain't half a sight, your highness.

(cook laughing)

(somber music)

(door clunking)

- Maria?

- What?

- You don't think cook's driving Sara

a little too hard do you?

- No, I don't.

The sooner the child learns

what's expected of her the better.

- You don't think she's
expecting a little too much?

I mean she is only 11.

- Amelia, do you know how
much Captain Crewe owed us?

With the birthday gifts, the party,

the hire of the pony and carriage,

somewhere in excess of 260 pounds.

- I know but-

- On top of which, I
have received a letter,

a solicitor's letter, informing me

that since I engaged Mariette

I am legally responsible for her wages

till the end of term,
which amount to another 20.

- Yeah, but that is hardly her fault.

- Well, of course, it is.

Shouldn't have had such
ridiculously expensive tastes.

- [Amelia] But it wasn't her,

it was just that her
father indulged her so.

- Exactly, and the sins of
the father shall be visited

on the children.

- That is God's prerogative, not ours.

- Amelia, how else are
we to pay off that debt?

- I'm not saying that she shouldn't work

just that the regime should
be a little less harsh.

- Oh, but it will become
a little less harsh

as she grows older.

At the moment she is
merely saving us the wages

of a maid of all work.

In time, as she begins to
teach the older children,

she will save us the
wages of an instructress.

Then, and only then, will her
duties become less arduous.

- [Ermengarde] Sara.

- Yes?

- How are you?

- Well, I haven't had
time to think about it.

How are you?

- I'm really well.

- Good.

- Are you, very unhappy?

- You mean scrubbing floors all day?

Carrying coal buckets up the
stairs, peeling potatoes?

How could I possibly be unhappy?

(somber music)

(rat squeaks)

Hello, mister rat.

Do you know something?

I'm glad to see you.

I never thought I'd be glad to see a rat.

Prisoners in the Bastille used
to make friends with rats.

Why don't I make friends with you?

My name's Sara.

And your name is?

Let's see now.

What shall I call you?

You look like a king rat,

so I shall give you a kingly sort of name.

I know, Melchizedek.

He must've been a kind king

because he gave Abraham
some bread and wine.

Perhaps you're hungry and
thirsty now, Melchizedek.

I'm afraid I haven't got any
wine but I've got some bread.

If you come here I'll share it with you.

I see.

So you don't want to talk to me?

So you don't want to be friends after all?

Well, see if I care!

(solemn music)

It's no use, Melchizedek, I do care.

- I'm sorry, this must
be very painful for you.

- [Anna] Yes, Colonel Sahib.

- For me to.

Your master wasn't just my
junior officer, he was my friend.

- I know.

- I still don't understand it.

I thought he was a man of means

but it seems he owed
money all over the place.

I had to pay his mess
bill out of my own pocket.

(colonel speaking in a foreign language).

(Anna speaking in a foreign language)

- Who has bought all these things?

- I have no idea.

I had a message from a bank in Delhi.

A gentlemen who wished to remain anonymous

offered to purchase all
the captain's effects.

So they asked me to have them
valued and put into storage.

All except this.

- Kali?
- He wants to take her

back to England with him.

She's to be sent straight
to the docks in Bombay.

- That is very strange.

- What?

- Well, that he should know

the captain possessed such a statue.

- Yes, suggests he's been here doesn't it?

Well, anyway, his money is a godsend.

It'll settle all your master's debts.

- I hope he is a good man.

Otherwise, Kali will destroy him.

- Very good.

No, Lottie, not (speaking
in a foreign language).

- But you said that feminine
words ended with an E.

- I said most words ending
with an E are feminine,

but some words that don't end
with an E are feminine too.

- I hate French!

- You'll like it when you get used to it.

- I don't think I shall
ever get used to it.

Why can't French people speak English?

- Some of them can.

- Well, then what's the
point of us learning French?

- It's a beautiful language.

- But it's so confusing.

- At first perhaps but it gets easier.

- How did you learn it?

- My mama was French.

- You mean before she went to heaven?

- Yes.

- That must mean I've
got a French grandmama.

- No, Lottie, I told you,
I'm not your mama anymore.

- I don't mind if you're poor.

And I want to see your new room.

- You wouldn't like it.

- Why not?

- It's right at the top of the house

and it's small and cold and damp.

- But that's the skivvy's room

and I know that you're not a real skivvy.

- Oh, yes, she is, Lottie.

She tried to hide it by wearing
all those expensive clothes

but she was always a
real skivvy underneath.

- Now, where were we? (speaking
in a foreign language)

- The house is big but my room is small.

- And damp and cold.

Ask her to translate that for you, Lottie.

- Or ask her to tell
you one of her stories.

Once upon a time, there
was a little princess,

only she wasn't a real princess,
she was just a beggar girl

who wandered into the palace
by mistake. (laughing)

(gentle solemn music)

- [Market Trader] Buy me apples!

Buy me apples!

Buy me apples!

(dog barking)

(chicken clucking)

- Penny a bunch, sweet posies.

Five pound for the lady, sir?

What about a nice violet, eh?

(doves cooing)

Sweet posies, penny a bunch.

(upbeat music)

(somber music)

(people chattering)

(wind whistling)

- [Lottie] Hey, Mama.

- Lottie?

What are you doing? You
shouldn't be caught here.

- I wanted to see where you lived.

- Well, now you've seen it.

You better go back downstairs
or I shall get into trouble.

- You're right, it is cold and damp.

- It's not so bad.

There's a nice view from the window.

I was just looking at it.

I can see all sorts of interesting things.

- What sort of things?

- Rooftops, the chimneys, and
smoke curling up into the sky.

Sparrows hopping about
and talking to each other.

Attic windows belonging to other houses.

You couldn't see any of those
things from my other room.

- Can I see?

Will you lift me up so I can see?

- All right, but you
have to be very quiet.

(birds chirping)
(wind whistling)

- Oh, yes, it is a nice view.

- You see that window?

- Yes.

- That's the attic
belonging to the next house.

- The empty house? The
one that's for sale?

- Yes.

But I pretend that
another girl lives there.

A beautiful French princess.

And her father and mother,
the king and queen,

have just been sent to the guillotine.

- What's that?

- A sort of mechanical ax,
that chops people's heads off.

- Oh. I shouldn't like to be sent there.

- So she's in great danger, we both are

because we're a threat
to the king's enemies.

- You mean you might have
your head chopped off?

- They might come for us any day now.

But, there's just one hope.

A handsome soldier called D'Artagnan.

He and his Musketeers are
loyal to the Crown, you see.

I know they're making plans to rescue me.

- Look at that bird over there.

I wish I had some crumbs for him.

- I've got some bread.

I was saving it for myself,

but one ought to share
things with visitors.

- Thank you.

He doesn't seem to be hungry.

- Wait. He's just not used to people.

He's wondering whether it's safe.

- Come on, mister sparrow,
don't be frightened.

- There.

Now that he knows we're here
he'll probably come back

with all his friends.

(downbeat music)

(blade scraping)

(bottles clinking)

Thank you.

(fire crackling)

(woman cackling)

(wind whistling)

- Oh, nice of you to
drop in, your highness.

- [Sara] I'm sorry, cook,
the shops were so full.

- Oh, excuses, excuses.

Do you think the mistress
would listen to my excuses

if supper wasn't on time?

All here is it?

- Yes.

- Come on, hold that.

Sugar, tea, sultanas, cheese.

Where's the parsley?

- That wasn't on the list.

- I can't serve boiled
potatoes without parsley.

You'll have to go back
to the greengrocers.

- But it's nearly closing time.

- Then you'll have to get
a move on then, won't ya?

Go on. Off you go.

Go on.

(suspenseful music)

(people laughing)

(horse hooves clopping)

(people chattering)
(bell ringing)

- [Man] Oi, you! Oi!

- [Market Trader] Buy me apples!

(door slamming)

(door thudding)

- Oh!

What a sight.

I hope you didn't tell anyone

you was from this establishment.

Fine advertisement, I must say

Well, don't just stand there

dripping on my floor.
(bell ringing)

Where's the parsley?

- I was too late, they were closed.

(bell ringing)

- Too late?

What'd you do?

Stop to order yourself a
new ballgown I suppose?

Get those upstairs.

All right, you're too
late for supper and all.

- [Sara] But it wasn't my
fault, cook, I ran all the way.

- Look, don't give me
no more of your excuses,

or I'll give you a good hiding.

You're not having any more
supper and that's that!

- Can I have some bread?

- No, you can't!

Didn't they teach you the Bible in India?

To them that hath not shall be taken away.

You hath not the parsley.

Therefore I'm taking away your supper.

Now get out of my kitchen.

Get out!

(somber music)

- Oh, miss, whatever happened?

- Everyone laughed, Becky.

I fell down in the street and
no one tried to help me up.

They just laughed.

- I know, I got knocked over by a cab once

and the toffs inside
thought it was great sport.

- I didn't realize.

- What?

- People could be so cruel.

(somber music continues)

Ermengarde?

- Hello, Sara.

It's all right, I made sure no one saw me.

- What do you want?

- To talk to you.

I've been so miserable.

- You've been miserable?

- You're my only friend and
when I meet you in the passage

you treat me like a stranger.

Don't you like me anymore?

- Skivvies can't afford
likes and dislikes.

They have to keep away from the pupils

in case they contaminate them.

- Oh, don't be so silly.

We don't have to take any
notice of Miss Minchin.

- Don't we?

- No. I'm willing to
take the risk if you are?

- §You mean you're willing to
risk being sent to your room

or given some lines to write?

You expect me to risk being
turned out into the street?

- [Ermengarde] So you want
to stop being friends?

- I thought we had stopped.
- That's not the answer.

If you don't want me to
come and see you I won't!

- It's not what I want, Ermengarde,

it's what's best for you.

- For me?

- If Lavinia and Jessie find out

they'll make you even more miserable.

- At least I won't be lonely.

I'd hope someone in
this place cared for me!

That is if you still care?

- Ermengarde, of course, I care.

It's just that I've seen so
many people change lately.

I thought you might've changed too.

- And I thought it was you who changed.

- I have.

- How?

- I don't trust people anymore.

- You trust me though.

And Emily.

- Emily's not a person.

She never feels anything,
'cause she hasn't a heart.

And she can't think because
her head's full of sawdust.

She's nothing but a stupid doll.

(gentle downbeat music)
(wind whistling)

(children laughing)

- [Girl] Donald!

- Hello, poor little girl.

I'm sure you won't have
enough to eat this Christmas.

Here's sixpence for you.

- Oh, no.

Thank you very much but
I couldn't possibly.

- Of course, you can.

It's a whole sixpence.

You can buy some food with it.

- But I'm not a beggar.

- It doesn't matter.

You look as though you're in need.

Go on, take it.

- Thank you.

(wind howling)

(carriage door slams)

(horse huffing)
(horse hooves clopping)

(gentle somber music)

I'm not gonna spend it, Emily.

I only took it

'cause he looked so
disappointed when I refused.

But, I shall wear it
round my neck to remind me

there are still some
kind people in the world.

Thought I was a beggar you see.

Was quite a shock, really.

I mean,

I'd no idea I looked so poor.

- Do you think she's
duke's daughter, Papa?

- [Mr. Carmichael] I should
think it's very unlikely.

- Then how did she learn to speak so well?

- Yeah.
- Well,

she probably listened to
the pupils and copied them.

- But she had this air about her.

It didn't seem to go
with her shabby clothes.

- And that cloak she was wearing.

It was dirty and torn.

- It was horrible.
- But it wasn't a cheap one.

It looked as if it had seen better days.

- Don't play with your food.

- Couldn't we invite
her for Christmas, Mama?

- No.
- Oh, yes, please.

(children chattering)

- And she seems to have so little.

Why don't we invite her
for Christmas dinner?

- It's a nice thought, Donald.

But I'm afraid if she's
in service at the seminary

we cannot interfere.

- Oh, please.
- Oh, why not?

- The headmistress would
take it as a slight.

Besides if she almost
refused your sixpence

she's hardly likely to
accept any more charity.

- Do you think she's too proud?

- She was too proud to beg wasn't she?

Crusts.

- Yes, I wonder why.

If I was in her position

I'd take whatever anyone offered me.

- [Mr. Carmichael] Good Lord.

- [Mrs. Carmichael] What dear?

- I must buy a house.

- What's the matter with this one?

- It's not for us,
Donald, it's for a client.

- [Children] Oh.

- Please, may I get down?
- Please, may I get down?

- Yes, you may all get down.

- He's returning to England
after many years abroad.

(children laughing)

- Well, what about the
one across the square,

next to the seminary?

Been on the market for months now,

so I'm sure the agents would
listen to a reasonable offer.

- Yes, what a good idea.

Yes, it might be just
what they're looking for.

I'll call on them this morning.

- Remember,

when you arrive back in
the bosom of your families

that Christmas is a time
of peace and goodwill,

it is not merely for the giving

and receiving of presents, Victoria,

but to celebrate the birth of our Lord.

So throughout the festive season,

I would like you all to behave
like good Christian children,

with obedience, Gloria, towards your mamas

and papas and with charity towards those

less fortunate than yourselves.

To those girls whose parents are abroad

and who will therefore remain

at the seminary for the
holidays, I will say this.

Miss Amelia and I will
do our best to make up

for the enforced separation
from your loved ones.

On Christmas day we shall
have a splendid feast,

followed by some jolly party games,

and I have had a message
from Father Christmas

to say that he will not be passing us by.

So, we shall all in our various ways

be sharing in Christ's bounty.

Do not forget to thank him,
as you thank those friends

and relatives who are
generous towards you all.

And until we meet again
for the Easter term

I wish you all a merry Christmas.

- [Girls] Merry Christmas, Miss Minchin.

- [Miss Minchin] Thank you.

- [Amelia] Good. Now,
girls, take your seats.

Henrietta will announce
each carriage as it arrives.

(gentle music)

- Miss Lottie, your carriage is here.

- Bye, Lottie.
- Bye, Lottie!

- [Lottie] See you soon.

Merry Christmas.
- Bye.

(wind whooshing)

- Hello, Martha.
- Hello, Lottie.

- Goodbye, Mama.

- Goodbye, Lottie. Have a good time.

(brush scraping)

- [Lottie] I shall miss you.

- I shall miss you too.

- I hope Father Christmas
doesn't pass you by.

- Thank you, but I have a feeling he will.

- [Lottie] Why?

- I'm too old for presents.

- You're only 11.

My sister's 15 and he
still fills her stocking.

- [Sara] Maybe she's
better behaved than I am.

- She's not, she's awful.

She pulls my hair.

- Well if she does it again
you just pull hers back.

- Aren't you even going
to hang up your stocking?

- [Sara] No.

- I tell you what I'll do,
I'll write to Father Christmas

and ask him not to forget you.

- Thank you, Lottie,

I'm sure that'll make all the difference.

(gentle music)

(carriage door slams)

(horse hooves clopping)

- Mistletoe, holly. We
shall need plenty of holly.

- Oh, yes.

What about the tree?

- Oh, send Sara to the market for that.

It'll be half the price
they charge in the shops.

- And the turkey too.

She should be able to get
a nice cheap one there.

- No, no. I don't think we
should economize on food.

We don't want the girls
writing to their parents

that we were parsimonious
on such an occasion, do we?

Oh, bye-bye, Eleanora,
have a lovely Christmas.

- [Eleanora] Merry
Christmas, Miss Minchin.

- Besides, it'll all go
on the parent's account.

Oh, look, a stupid child's

left their gloves.
- We cannot give

staff Christmas boxes-

- [Miss Minchin] Henrietta,

run after that sleepy child will you?

- Can't put them on the parent's account.

- What?

- And we really ought to
give them more this year.

They haven't had an
increase for some time.

- And what did we give them last year?

- Two pounds to cook.

- Well, make it three.

That'll stop her asking
for an increase in wages.

- And one pound to Henrietta.

- [Miss Minchin] Hm, hm, hm

- One pound to Henrietta.

- Make it one pound 10.

- And five shillings to Rebecca.

- Oh, give her the
same, she's an idle sl*t

and lucky to get that.

- What about Sara?

- What about her?

- Well, we ought to give her something.

- We already give her
something, a roof over her head.

- I mean something for Christmas.

- Amelia, I can't believe my ears.

She already owes us in
excess of 260 pounds.

Are you seriously suggesting-
- Only five shillings,

the same as-
- Not one penny.

She's not getting one penny more.

(door slams)

(cook snoring)

- Miss! Miss!
- Shh!

There's a heathen, miss,
moving in next door.

- [Sara] A what?

- A heathen.

It's got to be a heathen.

He's got a graven image.

- Becky, what are you talking about?

- I've just seen the removal blokes

lifting it out of the van.

It's an idol.

A heathen idol.

And I reckon he worships it.

- It's probably some kind of ornament.

- No, it's not.

It's got four arms and
nasty pointed teeth.

It's got a necklace made out of skulls

and a belt made out of snakes.

- Kali?.

- Who?

- The wife of Shiva, the
Hindu God of destruction.

- That things never a God's wife.

It's a graven image, that's what it is.

And I don't fancy living next to a heathen

what bows down to graven images.

- Papa had a statue of Kali in his study

but he never bowed down to it.

- What did he want it for then?

- He just liked looking at it.

As a work of art.

- Work of art?

(cook coughing)

But it's ugly.

- Not to a Hindu.

- What's that?

- A kind of Indian.

(cook snoring)

- The gentleman that's
moving in next door,

he could be an Indian?

- Perhaps.

You say the removal van's outside?

- Yeah and the blokes left that idol

standing on the pavement.

Stooking I call it.

- Let's see if it's still there.

(cook snoring)

(coo coughing)

Yes, that's Kali all right.

It's just like the one in Papa's study.

- So it is an Indian gentleman then.

- Well, he certainly bought
some of his things there

but I don't think he's an Indian.

- Why not?

- You see that other statue?

That's Buddha, another God.

But you can't be a Buddhist and a Hindu.

- [Ram Dass] Oh, be careful
with this table. Be careful.

- Well he's an Indian.

Seen them funny hats before.

It must make you feel homesick, miss?

- It would if I still had a home.

- [Ram Dass] Yes, that's
right, that's the correct one.

- [Becky] I suppose he's
arranging everything

for the new owner.

- I hope he has children.

They might use their attic as a playroom

and I could see them from my window.

(gentle music)

- This could be him now.

Looks like he's ill.

- Very ill if he has to have
a nurse to travel with him.

- No children, not even a wife.

- It doesn't matter.

If he likes Indian things
I'll think of him as a friend.

- You wanna be careful, miss

I still say he's a heathen.

♪ God rest ye merry gentlemen ♪

♪ Let nothing you dismay ♪

♪ For Jesus Christ our savior ♪

♪ Was born on Christmas day ♪

♪ To save us all from Satan's power ♪

(children giggling)

- A doll's house.

Oh thank you, Mama, it's wonderful.

- Was that what you wanted?
- Yes it is. It's lovely.

- [Donald] A theater! A toy theater!

Oh, thank you, Papa.

- [Mr. Carmichael] Well it's
not exactly a theater, Donald.

Open your mama's box, then
you'll see what it is.

- [Mrs. Carmichael] Oh,
darling, pearls. Oh!

- [Mr. Carmichael] Oh, sweetie.
There there, there there.

- Thank you. Thank you.
- Punch and Judy!

Oh, thank you, Mama!

I shall be able to make
up my own pantomime.

- [Mrs. Carmichael] And we
won't have to waste money

taking you to a real theater.

- You mean, we can't go
and see "Mother Goose"?

But you promised.

- I'm sure Donald's pantomime
will be much more enjoyable.

You can't expect us to
go out to the theater

now that we have one at home.

- Papa, I don't want to see
Donald's "Punch and Judy" show,

I want to see clowns and panoramas

and transformation scenes.

- I can do transformation scenes.

Look.

- Don't be stupid, Donald.

Don't you want to see a proper pantomime?

- Yes, I do.

- All right then, perhaps I
will take these back after all.

(children chattering)

- [Child] Papa.

- Now, look.
- So you were only joking?

- I was only joking.

Well, no, look at these.

- [Girl] You got us, Papa.

- [Girl] That wasn't funny.

(family chattering)
(choir singing)

♪ And his tidings of comfort and joy ♪

♪ Comfort and joy ♪

♪ And his tidings of comfort and joy ♪

- Let us pray.

Almighty God, on this, the
anniversary of the birth

of thine only-begotten son
we beseech thee to bless

all those who are separated
from their loved ones.

Comfort and sustain
them on this joyous day.

Blessed too those whose lot it is

to serve their fellow-creatures.

Make them diligent in their
duties and humbly grateful

both to thee and to their
earthly benefactors.

So that at the last
they too may be admitted

to thine everlasting kingdom
through Christ our Lord.

- [All] Amen.

- Young ladies, you may open your gifts.

Those members of staff who wish
to do so may stay and watch.

Well, what a wonderful array of gifts.

Oh, that is very nice, thank you.

Yes, oh, and what have you there?

(gentle solemn music)

- Sara, Sara.

This is for you.

- For me?

Oh, Ermengarde.

- It's a book.

You've probably read it but
I know you like reading books

over and over again.

And I know you haven't
any of your own books.

- Thank you.

I just wish-

- Sara, if that is a gift then
you will open it downstairs.

It would not be seemly to do so here.

- Yes, ma'am.

- [Miss Minchin] Isn't that very nice?

(pans bubbling)

- How lovely.

- What, miss?

- "Alice Through the Looking Glass".

I've read "Alice in Wonderland"
but I've never read this.

- Books?

What does a skivvy want with books?

They don't teach you to
scrub floors, do they?

- And they don't tell you how
to keep hold of your money.

Nor how to recognize a mine

what ain't got no diamonds in it. (laughs)

- Merry Christmas, everyone.

(gentle music)

Merry Christmas, cook.

- [Cook] Thank you, ma'am.

- Merry Christmas, Henrietta.

- [Henrietta] Thank you, ma'am.

- Merry Christmas, Rebecca.

- [Rebecca] Thank you kindly, ma'am.

- Merry Christmas everyone.

- [Becky] Merry Christmas.

- Merry Christmas, ma'am.

Oh, three pounds.

Should have been a fiver.

Still, it's a quid more than last year.

- [Henrietta] I've got 10 bob more.

- I've got the same.

Here, miss, I'll share it with you.

Half a crown each, eh?

- No, Becky, it's sweet of you
but it's your Christmas box.

You must keep it.

- But you didn't get nothing.

- I didn't expect anything.

I owe Miss Minchin so much money,

I couldn't expect her to give me anymore.

- But it's not fair.

Everyone should get a
present at Christmas.

- I've got one, and
it's just what I wanted.

- Carrots.

- Sorry again to call you
out on Christmas day, doctor.

I hope we haven't wasted your time?

- Not at all, my dear man.
Your master has jaundice.

- Jaundice?

- A general disorder of the system

in which bile accumulates
in the bloodstream.

This can be caused by some
mechanical impediment,

such as a blocked bile duct.

In a great many cases it
can be caused by a sudden

mental shock or prolonged anxiety.

Has your master had such a shock recently?

- Yes, yes he has.

- And he drinks spirits I see.

- [Ram Dass] Yes, doctor he drinks.

- He must stop immediately.

The bile duct could well be blocked

by an inflammation of the liver.

A condition aggravated by spirit drinking.

I shall have to make some tests.

But if he follows my advice the prognosis

should be favorable.

And may I ask if he has
recovered from the shock?

- No.

- And I don't suppose I ever shall.

- Nonsense.

It's just a question of willpower,

whether you wish to recover.

It seems to me, my dear sir,

you're putting up very little
resistance to your illness.

I cannot emphasize enough
that in a case like yours,

the mental and the
physical go hand in hand.

So if you continue on your present course-

- [John] I'll just fade away.

- Exactly.

- [John] Well, perhaps that would be best.

- [Doctor] Then why did
you seek medical advice?

- [John] To please my servant.

- It would please him a great deal more

if you cease to brood on your troubles.

And you must follow a strict diet.

No more spirit drinking.

- No, Doctor.

- I shall call again tomorrow morning.

Good day, sir.

And a merry Christmas to you.

(door clunking)

(drink splashing)

(group chattering)

- [Miss Minchin] Lavinia, pass the salt.

- It was a wonderful present.

- Did you like it, really?

- I love it and I haven't read it.

I can't wait to start.

- Sarah, stop talking, please.

Servants should be seen and not heard.

- [Sara] Yes ma'am.

- Oh for heaven's sake.

Look what she's done, Miss Minchin.

- You clumsy girl.

You're not even fit to wait on tables.

Go to your room this instant.

- It wasn't, me ma'am, it was her.

She did it on purpose.

- Nonsense.

How dare you accuse one of my young ladies

of uncouth behavior.

- You will go to your room immediately.

You will beg Lavinia's pardon.

Well?

- No, I won't beg her pardon
because it was her fault.

- Then you will go to your
room for the rest of the day

and you will go without
luncheon and dinner.

- But that's not fair.

- I'm not interested in
what you think is fair.

You will do as I say.

Don't laugh at me, you insolent child.

- Maria.

- I wasn't laughing.

I was thinking.

- What?

- It would be strange if I
turned out to be a princess,

after all, wouldn't it?

- Well, get on with your lunch!

This is supposed to be a festive occasion!

(somber music)

(monkey chattering)

- Come back evil one.

You mustn't go there you naughty monkey.

You can't visit the little girl.

Come back at once.

(Sara speaking in a foreign language)

- You speak Hindustani?

- Yes.

- A miracle, sent by Krishna perhaps?

Did you drop from heaven?

- If I had I certainly wouldn't
have chosen this place.

But you haven't answered my question.

Will your monkey let me
catch him or will he bite?

- No, no, he won't bite.

He is however frightened of strangers.

- You better come and fetch him then.

Can you get across?

- I will come at once.

(monkey chirping)

Now come along evil one.

Come to Ram Dass.

It's no use. There is no escape.

I shall inform the Sahib of your conduct

and there will be no
bananas for you today.

- Tell me about the Sahib.

He comes from India too?

- No, he was there only a few weeks.

Then he became ill and
had to return to England.

- What's the matter with him?

- He has a disease called jaundice.

If he had stayed in India,
he would surely have died.

- Poor man, I will pray for him.

- Thank you, Missy Sahib.

Thank you also for your indulgence.

Please, forgive the evil
one for his wickedness.

(monkey squealing)

- Missy Sahib.

(gentle music)

Oh, Anna, if you could see me now.

- The habitation was not fit, Sahib.

Not fit for a girl of her extreme youth.

In India, perhaps it'd be
possible to live in such a place.

But here, here it is too cold.

- There was no fire?

- There has been no fire
there for many weeks.

She could freeze to death.

- Boo! I thought you
might like some company.

- Won't you be missed downstairs?

- It's all right, they're
playing hide and seek

and it's my turn to hide.

They'll never think of
looking for me up here.

- Well, if you're sure.

- I brought you some Christmas cake.

- Oh, Ermengarde, thank you.

I'll save it for later.

It'll be something to look forward to.

- It was beastly of Lavinia
to get you into trouble.

I'm sorry I didn't stick up
for you but I couldn't think

of anything to say.

- There was nothing you could have said.

The gorgon would never have
believed it wasn't my fault.

- She was beastly too.

Making you go hungry on Christmas day!

I hate her!

- I don't.

I pretend I'm a princess in disguise.

At any time I choose I
can order her execution.

It's a great comfort.
(Ermengarde laughs)

- Oh you've started it then.

- Yes.

And do you know something,
Alice was a prisoner too.

She had a more comfortable
cell, of course.

She had a nice warm fire and a carpet

but she still felt like a prisoner.

- And that's why she went
through the looking glass.

- [Both] To escape.

- She thought that once
she was on the other side

no one could get at her.

- It's a pity you haven't
got a looking glass.

- I shall just have to pretend
this is the other side.

Strange things happen here too you know.

- Mr. Carmichael, Sahib.

- Mr. Carrisford.

- I'm sorry about the gloom, Carmichael,

but the light hurts my eyes.

Please do sit down.

- Thank you.

- Have a good Christmas?

- Wonderful.

And you?

- Oh, Christmas isn't for
crusty bachelors like me,

it's for children.

You have five, don't you?

- Yes, yes.

Four girls and a boy.

Thank you.

Perhaps you would like to meet them?

- Oh, when I'm on my feet again.

- Sahib.

- I feel they've much better things to do

than visit a boring invalid like me.

- What did the doctor say?

- That if I follow his advice

I shall make a complete recovery.

Though, frankly, I'm
not sure it's worth it.

Not unless you can find
Crewe's daughter for me.

Have you any news?

- Yes, Mr. Carrisford, I have.

I heard from my French
inquiry agent an hour ago,

I came straight over to tell you.

- You found her.

Then for the love of God
man, tell me where she is.

- Well, I believe that she's in Russia.

- Russia?

(gentle downbeat music)