(dramatic music) (film clicking) (bells ringing) (dramatic music) (gentle music) (sweet gentle music) (sweet gentle music) (pensive music) (somber music) >> I never saw a man meet death with finer courage.

Don't let her stay in there too long.

(Dearest sobbing) >> Ceddie: Dearest, is father, is father well now?

>> Yes, dear.

He's well.

He's quite well.

But we have no one left now but each other.

No one at all.

(sobbing) My baby.

(sobbing) (somber music) >> Strawberries, fresh strawberries!

Strawberries, fresh strawberries!

>> He'll be pleased, Mary, won't he?

>> Ah, the darling.

Just think of a gift like that for his birthday.

He'll be the happiest boy in all Brooklyn till he falls off of it.

(laughs) >> Ceddie: Dearest!

Dearest!

>> All right, Ceddie.

>> Oh, Dearest, look, look.

Mary's brother Michael has made it for me.

And Mary's given me this book.

It's "The Adventures of Robin Hood and His Merry Men."

Look.

"Back, varlets.

Touch Maid Marian at your peril.

However many you be, I defy you all."

See, Dearest?

You're Maid Marian, and, um, I'm Robin Hood.

They crowd around you.

I'll never leave your side, however many there are.

>> Oh!

>> Now, Dearest, you cry out, help me, Robin Hood.

>> Help me, Robin Hood.

Help, help, help.

>> Varlets, now I've got- >> Oh!

There.

(Mary laughing) >> Oh.

Oh.

>> Do you like it?

>> Mary: Oh, my.

(laughs) >> Of all the events in my life, this is the most magnificent.

(bell ringing) (Mary laughing) >> Do you really like it, darling?

It's what you wanted?

>> Ceddie: It's exactly what I wanted.

>> Oh, I do hope it is.

Only you will be careful, won't you, and not let it run away with you or anything?

>> I suppose I'm about the safest bicycle rider in the whole of Brooklyn.

>> (laughs) Do you mind that there?

>> Can I ride it now, Dearest?

Can I go now?

I can't wait one minute.

Mr. Hobbs has to see it and Dick.

Can I go now, Dearest, at once?

>> Dearest: Yes, dear.

Only do be careful.

>> There we go.

(laughing) >> Ceddie, Ceddie.

Do be careful of the streetcars if you get off the sidewalk.

>> Oh, I will.

>> Wait.

Now wait a minute.

Wait a minute.

>> Goodbye, Dearest.

Goodbye.

♪ I'll be careful ♪ ♪ I'll be careful ♪ ♪ I'll be careful ♪ ♪ I'll be careful ♪ ♪ I'll be careful ♪ ♪ I'll be careful ♪ (bell ringing) >> Ceddie: Good morning, Mrs. McGillicutty.

>> Good morning, Ceddie.

A very good morning.

>> How are your bones today, Mrs. McGillicutty?

>> Oh, none too good after the rainstorm yesterday.

Oh, they ached last night something cruel.

Ties me up in knots, the rain does.

>> Does it?

How very peculiar.

But, uh, it's a fine day to go bicycle riding.

>> Oh, I suppose so for them that has bicycles and can ride them.

>> I suppose everybody who has a new bicycle will take it out and ride it today.

>> Glory be to goodness!

And whose bicycle might that be?

>> It's mine.

It's my birthday present from Dearest.

>> Oh, it's a daisy, sure.

Fine enough for the president to ride.

>> And it has all the latest improvements.

(bell ringing) >> Oh.

Sure, it sounds like the bells of St. Patrick's.

Sure, it's the luckiest boy in the world, you are.

>> Well, I'll have to be going.

Oh, I nearly forgot.

Can you choose my apple now, Mrs. McGillicutty?

But would you mind keeping it for me until I get back?

>> [Mrs. McGillicutty] Sure.

(gentle music) (dramatic music) (boys whistling) ♪ Oh, there he goes ♪ ♪ Oh, there he goes ♪ ♪ All dressed up in his pretty clothes ♪ ♪ The way ain't near ♪ ♪ Away it be ♪ ♪ That's as tough as it's going to be ♪ >> Hey, Percy, where'd you get the ice wagon?

>> I'd like to get by, please.

>> Give us a little ride, will you, bub?

>> I'm sorry, no.

>> Aw, scared I'll get it dirty?

>> No, but I'd rather ride it myself.

>> Oh!

>> Come one!

>> Hey, English.

When'd you get back from dear old London?

>> I'm not English.

I'm an American.

>> Then where'd you get that kind of gab?

>> My father was English, if it's any of your affair.

>> Ooh, does your mother know you're out?

>> Don't you dare talk about my mother.

>> Mama's pet.

♪ Mama's pet, mama's pet ♪ (boys laughing) >> I think you had better take your hand off that wheel.

>> Want to make anything out of it?

>> I want to make you get out of the way.

(boys laughing) >> You don't darst, you sissy cat.

♪ Sissy cat, sissy cat ♪ (boys laughing) >> Wait a minute, Ceddie.

Don't let them bluff you.

I'll be right there.

(boys laughing) (boy coughing) (boys laughing) >> Ow, ow.

Let go.

(boys laughing) >> Go on, Dick.

Strike him on the snoot.

Hit him with the right.

Knock him with the left.

Hit him in the kisser.

Right in the kisser!

(dramatic music) >> Look!

Cheese it!

A cop!

>> Here, you young devils.

Get out of here!

Get out!

(dramatic music) (gentle music) >> Aw, why couldn't that copper leave us alone?

We had them licked.

>> Thanks terribly for coming to my rescue, Dick.

>> Ah, nicks, that makes us even for me giving you the mumps, doesn't it?

>> They didn't even scratch it.

>> Gee willikers, where'd you swipe that?

>> Dearest gave it to me.

Isn't it magnificent?

>> It's a lollapalooza.

>> I want you to be the very first person to ride on it.

>> Ah, thanks.

(throat clearing) (bright music) Aw.

>> Thank you very much for your assistance, Mr. O'Brien.

>> It's a pleasure, Ceddie, my lad.

>> Of course, I think we might have won anyway.

>> Sure, and don't I know it.

But I had to keep you from committing murder.

>> I'll tell you what, Dick.

I'll just go once around the block, and then you can ride it down to Mr. Hobbs' store.

>> Make it later 'cause right away I gotta go see my brother Ben off.

He's going out West.

>> Oh, is he?

Where?

Texas?

>> No, Chicago.

>> Oh, that would be splendid, riding mustangs and shooting bears.

(Ben whistling) >> Here's my brother Ben now.

>> Come on, Dick.

I've got to leave.

>> Well, come on down to Mr. Hobbs' store quickly if you can.

>> What do you say to a little birthday party?

Ginger pop and cookies and some candy.

>> That would be perfect, Mr. Hobbs.

Only, uh- >> Only?

>> Well, uh, Dick's coming very soon.

And I was thinking, uh, if we could wait.

>> I guess there'll be enough to go around.

>> There's a lump coming, I think.

Quite a big one.

What are you reading, Mr. Hobbs?

>> Ah.

That's the way they go on now.

British aristocracy.

I've got no use for them.

Earls and marquesses going around as if they was lords of creation, wearing their coronets.

>> Did you ever know any marquesses, Mr. Hobbs?

Or earls?

>> I should say not.

I'd just like to catch one of them inside here, that's all.

I'll have no graspin' tyrant sitting around on my cracker barrels.

>> Perhaps they wouldn't be earls if they knew any better.

>> Oh, wouldn't they, though?

They just glory in it.

It's in them.

They're a bad lot.

(Dick whistling) Here you are, Dick.

Just in time for Ceddie's birthday feast.

>> Jimminity!

Ginger pop and everything!

>> Here's to your health, Ceddie.

Many happy birthdays.

>> Thank you very much, Mr. Hobbs.

(dramatic music) Why, Mary.

>> Come on home, darling.

The mistress is wanting you.

Oh, glory be.

Would you look at that head.

>> I'm very sorry, Mr. Hobbs, but I shan't be able to stay for the feast.

Is there anything wrong with Dearest?

>> Not at all.

There's nothing the matter with her.

>> What's happened, Mary?

>> Now don't be asking me any questions.

Queer, strange things happening to us.

>> If you'll forgive me, Mrs. Errol, you must not disregard the great position to which your son has fallen heir through the death of his uncle, your late husband's brother.

>> But what it amounts to, Mr. Havisham, is that you want to take my boy away from me.

>> Mrs. Errol, you must remember that I'm acting quite impersonally, simply as a lawyer of the Earl of Dorincourt.

>> The Earl of Dorincourt disowned his son and has refused to recognize his grandson until now.

Why should I give up my boy?

>> I'm afraid I've been very stupid, Mrs. Errol.

I should have told you, my instructions are that you shall accompany Lord Fauntleroy to England.

>> Oh.

>> Now I must remind you that Lord Dorincourt is not very friendly towards you.

He's an old man and has always had very strong prejudices against America and Americans.

He was bitterly opposed to his son's marriage.

He's fixed in his determination not to see you.

You will live in the lodge, and a suitable income will be provided for you.

The only stipulation is that you'll make no attempt to visit your son at the castle nor even enter the park gates.

>> There's your sister, Mary.

Hello, Bridget.

Why, what's the matter?

>> It's Michael.

He's worse, and he's no money, and we can't pay the rent.

I don't know what I'm going to do.

>> Now, Bridget, I have more important things to attend to.

(Bridget sobbing) >> I wonder what your husband's wishes would have been in this matter.

>> You, you knew my husband?

>> Yes, I knew Captain Errol well and liked him, as everybody did.

He was greatly attached to his old home.

>> Yes, I know.

>> He above everyone would have appreciated what this means for your son, the very great advantages he would have.

>> Yes.

You're right.

My husband would have wished it.

Mr. Havisham, I must ask you to let me tell Ceddie about this in my own way and in my own time.

He must never know his grandfather disliked me.

If he did, it would make it harder for them to be friends.

>> Very well.

Your son will thank you for this when he's a man.

>> I hope his grandfather will love Ceddie.

He has a very affectionate nature and has always been loved.

(dramatic music) This is Mr. Havisham, dear, whom your grandfather has sent to see us all the way from England.

>> How do you do, sir?

>> So this is little Lord Fauntleroy?

(dramatic music) >> You see, dear, your grandfather has no more children now, and he's very lonely.

So he wants us to go and live with him in England.

And because he's an earl, and you are his heir, you will have a new name, Lord Fauntleroy.

And someday, you will be the Earl of Dorincourt.

>> Oh, Dearest, do I have to be an earl?

None of the boys are earls.

Can't I not be one?

>> I'm afraid it can't be helped, dear.

Just think, dear.

Soon we'll be starting for England.

>> Do we have to go to England, Dearest?

I'd much rather not.

Oh.

What will Mr. Hobbs say?

>> Mr. Hobbs: Anything else, ma'am?

>> Woman: Uh, how much is your table butter?

>> Mr. Hobbs: 13 cents a pound, ma'am.

>> Woman: 13?

Why, the last I bought was only 12 1/2 cents.

>> Mr. Hobbs: That must have been last month.

It's 13 today.

>> Oh, indeed?

Well, never mind the butter.

Heavens on earth, if the prices go any higher, we'll all starve to death.

Good day.

>> Good day, ma'am.

Hello, Ceddie.

What's the matter?

>> Mr. Hobbs, do you remember what we were talking about yesterday morning?

>> Hmm.

It seems to me we was talking about England.

>> Yes, yes.

And earls, don't you remember?

>> Oh, yes.

We did touch them up a little.

That's all.

>> You said you wouldn't have them sitting around on your cracker barrels.

>> So I did, and I meant it too.

Just let them try it.

That's all.

>> Mr. Hobbs, one is sitting on this barrel now.

>> What?

>> Yes, I am one.

Or I'm going to be.

I won't deceive you, Mr. Hobbs.

>> It's the heat.

It is a hot day.

How do you feel?

Got any pain?

>> Thank you.

I'm all right.

I'm sorry to say it's true, Mr. Hobbs.

Mr. Havisham, he's a lawyer, came all the way from England to tell us about it.

My grandfather sent him.

>> I'm afraid, Mr. Havisham, our American food must seem very strange to you.

>> A little, ma'am.

I find that muffins are biscuits, and biscuits are cookies.

But the cooking's excellent.

And after all, it's the company that makes a meal exquisite, not the food.

>> Thank you, Mr. Havisham.

>> When you're an earl, you'll give splendid dinners in one of the most beautiful castles in England.

>> Do you know, I'm not sure I know exactly what an earl is.

And I think if anybody's going to be one, he ought to know, don't you?

Would you mind explaining it to me?

>> Well, someone is made an earl generally because he's done some service to his sovereign or some great deed.

>> Oh, that's like the president.

>> Oh, is it?

Is that why your presidents are elected?

>> Yes, sir.

When a man is very good, and he knows a great deal, he's elected president.

And they have torchlight processions and bands, and everybody makes speeches.

I used to think perhaps I might like to be president.

But I never thought of being an earl.

>> Ah, being an earl is rather different from being a president.

An earl is generally a very ancient lineage.

>> Ceddie: Uh, what's that?

>> A very old family, extremely old.

>> Oh, that's like the apple woman.

She's 100, I should think.

She's of such ancient lineage, it is a surprise how she can stand up.

I do feel sorry for anyone who is so poor and has such ancient lineage.

She says holes have gone into her bones.

And rain makes it worse.

(adults laughing) >> When I said ancient lineage, I didn't mean old age.

The first Earl of Dorincourt was created an earl hundreds of years ago.

>> Well, well, that was a long time ago, wasn't it, Dearest?

>> Yes, dear.

>> Mr. Havisham: Many earls have been very brave men and have fought in great battles.

>> Ceddie: I should like to do that myself.

My father was a soldier and a very brave man, as brave as George Washington.

I'm glad earls are brave.

That's a great bounty.

>> Would you excuse me a moment, please?

There's someone I must see.

>> Oh, certainly, of course.

There, um, there's another advantage of being an earl.

Some of them have a great deal of money.

>> That's a good thing to have.

I wish I had a great deal of money.

>> Do you?

Why?

>> Well, so many things a person can do with money.

If I were very rich, I'd buy the apple woman a little tent to put her stall in and a stool.

And I'd give her a shawl, because then her bones wouldn't feel so badly.

>> Hmm, and, uh, what else would you do if you were rich?

>> I'd buy Dearest all sorts of beautiful things.

>> Dearest?

>> I call mother Dearest, because father did and there's Dick.

>> Havisham: And who is Dick?

>> Dick is the boot black.

I'd buy him some new cloths, some brushes, and a new sign, and stash them out there.

He says that's all he wants is to start out fair.

>> Hmm, is there anything else?

Well, I think Mr. Hobbs would like a gold watch and chain.

>> But what would you get just for yourself if you were rich?

Isn't there one particular thing you dreamed of having?

>> Yes.

A pony.

But I suppose that would be too much to even dream about.

>> I'm so sorry.

A poor woman who was in trouble came to see me.

>> Oh, is it Bridget?

>> Yes, dear.

>> I wish we could do something for her.

She has six children, and her husband is out of work.

He has inflammatory rheumatism.

And that's the kind of rheumatism that's dreadful.

>> Before I left Dorincourt Castle, the earl said that if you expressed any wishes, I was to gratify them and give you anything you desire.

Now, here, here are five pounds, in your money, $25.

If you have any desire to assist this poor woman, I'm sure your grandfather would wish it.

>> Can I have it now?

Can I give to her this minute?

May I be excused, please, Dearest?

>> Dearest: Yes, Ceddie.

>> Ceddie: Bridget.

Bridget, wait a minute.

This money, my grandfather gave it to me, for you.

>> That's a great deal of money, Mr. Havisham.

We've never had very much.

I'm just beginning to realize the great power Ceddie will have, such a child still.

I'm a little afraid.

>> I think from what I've seen of him that you have nothing to fear.

>> Oh, I hope not.

He mustn't be spoiled by all these wonderful changes.

(gentle music) >> She cried.

She said she was crying for joy.

I never saw anyone cry for joy before.

My grandfather must be a very good man.

It's more, more agreeable being an earl than I thought it was going to be.

In fact, I'm almost quite glad I'm going to be one.

(sighs) (dramatic music) We always liked that little house, didn't we, Dearest?

We always will like it.

>> Yes, darling.

Yes.

(gentle music) >> I've come to say goodbye.

I have to go to England to be a lord.

And I shouldn't like to have to have to have your bones on my mind every time it rains.

>> (laughs) Oh, bless your dear, little heart with all your kindness to me.

My bones is as quiet as anything.

Can I give you a kiss for that?

>> Ceddie: Of course.

>> Here's an apple to eat on the boat.

>> Thank you very much.

>> Oh, no, lad.

Why should you pay?

As me late husband used to say, "This one's on the house."

(laughs) >> Thank you, again.

Well, goodbye.

>> Goodbye, lad.

(gentle music) >> Well.

>> Well.

>> Well.

>> Well.

>> Well, goodbye.

I hope and pray it will be good.

>> Gee, if trade gets any better, I'll be rolling around in diamonds and pearls.

>> That would be splendid, wouldn't it?

I hope you have every sort of luck and happiness.

>> Thanks, same to you.

And I hope you think about us sometime when you're way over there, they say on foreign soil.

>> I'll think about you all the time.

And I'll write to you.

And you must write to me.

Here's where you send your letter.

>> Gee, I wish you wasn't going away.

Thanks, mister, for all the swell things you've done for him.

Of course he deserves, he's a game little kid.

Gee, I almost forgot.

Here, I bought this for you.

(gentle music) It's a handkerchief.

You can use it when you get among them swells.

>> Oh, Dick, it's beautiful.

It's, uh, it's, it's extraordinary.

I'll use it always.

Thank you, Dick.

Thank you very much.

Well, goodbye.

>> Well, goodbye.

(gentle music) >> Would you mind very much not going in with me?

I think this time I better be alone.

>> Certainly, I quite understand.

(gentle music) >> This is for you, Mr. Hobbs.

It'll look fine when you're smoking it.

>> Why, Ceddie, that's just what I wanted for a long time.

>> This is my real present, Mr. Hobbs.

(gentle music) There's something written on it inside the case.

I told the man what to say.

You read it.

>> "From his oldest friend, Lord Fauntleroy, to Mr. Hobbs.

When this you see, remember me."

(gentle music) "When this you see, remember me."

>> I don't want you to forget me.

>> Oh, I won't forget you.

Don't you go and forget me when you go over there amongst those British aristocracy.

>> I shouldn't forget you whoever I was among.

I hope you'll come to see me.

Perhaps my grandfather will write and invite you.

You, you wouldn't him being an earl, would you?

I mean, you wouldn't stay away just because he was one.

>> Oh, I'll come and see you.

I, I won't be able to help myself.

(gentle music) (pensive music) (upbeat music) (dramatic music) (gentle music) (people chattering) (bright happy music) >> Is this Dorincourt Castle, Dearest?

>> No, this is Court Lodge, where your- >> Miss Mary!

We had a splendid time in London, Mary.

>> I'm so glad you came before us, Mary.

We don't feel so strange finding you here to welcome us.

>> I assure you, it's the great happiness I wish you, ma'am, in your lovely new home.

This is Mrs. Dane, the cook, ma'am, and that's Susan, the parlor maid.

>> I'm sure we'll do everything, madam, to make you comfortable.

>> Oh, I'm sure you will.

(gentle music) >> Time to say goodbye.

The carriage is waiting to take him to the castle.

I must tell the earl of your safe arrival.

>> He needs to go tonight?

I'd so like to have him with me my first night here.

>> Oh, I'm sure Lord Dorincourt won't be expecting his grandson tonight.

Tomorrow will be time enough.

>> I dread so to tell him that we're not going to live together anymore.

I'm a coward, I know, putting it off so long.

The most difficult and most cruel thing I've ever had to do.

(gentle music) I wish you'd tell his lordship, please.

I'd rather not have the money.

>> You mean the income he wishes to settle on you?

>> I have a little money of my own, quite enough to live something on.

I must accept the house, of course, because that makes it possible to live near Ceddie.

I'm grateful to him for that but- >> He'd be very angry, he won't understand it at all.

>> I think he will understand.

He must understand that I can't accept money from a man who hates me so much that he's separating me from my boy.

>> I'll deliver your message.

(gentle music) >> Ceddie: I think it's beautiful here, don't you, Dearest?

>> Ceddie, darling.

There's something I must tell you and you're not going to understand it, I know.

But I want you to believe me, as you always have, when I tell you it's for the best.

Tomorrow, Mr. Havisham will take you to your grandfather, and you will live with him at the castle.

But I shall not go with you.

This pretty house will be my home and Mary will be here to look after me.

>> But Dearest, you don't mean, you can't mean that we're not going to be together, just as we've always been.

Oh no, I can't!

I couldn't!

I won't!

(sobbing) >> Ceddie, you must be brave and sensible.

If there are some things you can't understand now, you'll understand them later.

It's best for you to live there, there's a good reason why it is.

>> You mean, you want me to go away from you?

>> Of course not, darling!

But now you're growing older and you must trust and help one another without asking any questions.

You know, Ceddie, your grandfather loves you and wants you to love him.

He's so kind, he wants you to be happy and to make other people happy.

>> But, Dearest, I can't be happy without you.

>> But you won't be without me all the time.

I'm not far from the castle here, you'll run in and see me every day.

You'll love the castle and there will always be something new and interesting to tell me.

And I'll have things to tell you.

Oh, Ceddie, we'll have such a good time together.

>> We'll be finding things out, both of us, we'll be explorers.

>> Yes, like Mr. Stanley and Mr. Livingston.

>> That'll be exciting.

Every night, when it grows dark, I'll put a candle in the window to guide you through the jungle, Mr. Stanley.

(pensive music) (Dearest sobbing) (horse hooves clopping) >> Ah, Newick, how's his lordship?

>> In a rare mood this evening, he is.

He told me to evict all the tenants if they weren't paid up.

>> Oh, I daresay that'll be a job to your liking.

>> Purvis: Hello, sir.

>> Ah, Purvis, glad to see you again.

>> Very glad to see you, sir.

(furniture clattering) >> Earl: Oh, Idiot!

Do as they're told!

(indistinct) >> Gout?

>> Oh yes, sir, these last few weeks have been the worst I've ever known, sir.

>> Earl: I'm surrounded by a lot of incompetent nincompoops.

Shut the door, you block head!

>> I can't stay any longer, Purvis.

He's too much for any man.

Cursing and swearing and calling people other names like he does.

And it's not just today, it's every day.

>> Thomas, you brought him the '63, he prefers the '51.

>> How was I supposed to know, he didn't say.

>> Fetch the other bottle.

>> What business has he got drinking port anyway?

(grumbling) >> I can't- >> He's the most amiable and affectionate of grandsons.

In fact, he already regards you as a wonder of generosity.

>> Oh, he does, huh?

>> I would suggest, my lord.

Lord Fauntleroy's impression of you depends entirely upon yourself.

I make a further suggestion that you will succeed better with him if you take care to not speak strikingly to him of his mother.

>> Boy's only nine.

>> Havisham: Nevertheless, those nine years have been spent at his mother's side.

She has all his affection.

>> Hmm.

So he thinks me generous, eh?

Hm.

(laughs) (dog growling) (dramatic music) (gentle music) >> Now, Purvis, this is Lord Fauntleroy.

>> My lord.

>> How do you do?

>> Thank you, my lord.

(quiet triumphant music) (bright cheerful music) My lord.

(gentle music) >> This is Lord Fauntleroy, Mrs. Millan.

Lord Fauntleroy, this is Mrs. Millan, the housekeeper.

>> How do you do, ma'am?

>> I should know his lordship anywhere, sir.

The captain's face and way.

>> Oh, was it you who sent the cat?

I am so much obliged to you, ma'am.

How do you do?

>> Such a great thing you did, sir.

>> Where's his lordship?

>> In the library, sir.

Lord Fauntleroy is to be sent to him alone.

(dramatic regal music) >> Lord Fauntleroy, my lord.

(gentle music) >> Come along.

Come back, sir.

>> How do you do, sir?

Are you the Earl?

I'm your grandson that Mr. Havisham brought.

I'm Lord Fauntleroy.

I hope you're quite well, I'm very glad to see you.

>> Huh, you're glad to see me, are ya?

>> Yes, very.

I kept wondering what you would look like.

If you would be anything like my father.

>> Earl: Oh, and am I?

>> Well, I don't think you are, very.

>> You're disappointed, I suppose?

>> Oh no.

Of course you would enjoy the way your grandfather looks.

Even if he wasn't like your father.

You know how it is yourself about marrying your relations.

>> Eh?

I'm not sure that I do.

>> Well, any boy would love his grandfather, especially one who's been as kind to him as you've been.

>> Oh, so I've been kind to you, have I?

>> Yes.

I'm ever so much obliged to you about Bridget and the apple woman and Dick.

>> Bridget, Dick, apple woman?

>> They were particular friends of mine.

You know, they were the ones you gave me all that money for.

The money you told Mr. Havisham to give to me if I wanted it.

>> Oh, the money you were to spend as you like, eh?

So you spent it all on these people, did you?

Bridget, Dick and the apple woman?

>> Yes, and I gave Mr. Hobbs a gold watch and chain and a pipe.

I put some poetry in the watch.

It was "When this you see, remember me."

I'm going to miss Mr. Hobbs very much.

>> Who is Mr. Hobbs?

>> He was our grocer.

Fancy vegetables and groceries, you know.

He's my closest friend.

Mr. Hobbs is a very clever man.

Do you know he can recite the Declaration of Independence right through?

Oh.

>> What's the matter?

>> I just remembered you might not like to hear about the Declaration of Independence.

I forgot you were an Englishman.

>> Huh, learn that humor in English school, didn't you?

>> Ceddie: Oh no.

I'm an American.

>> You are English.

Your father was an Englishman.

>> I was born in America.

You have to be an American if you're born in America.

>> You don't- >> I beg your pardon for contradicting you.

Mr. Hobbs says that if there's ever to be another war, that I should have to be an American.

But I promised him that if there were to be another war, I should try to stop it.

>> You would, would you?

(laughs) >> We're very great friends.

He was the best friend I had except- (pensive music) >> Fauntleroy, what are you thinking of?

>> I was thinking of Dearest.

>> Earl: Who is Dearest?

>> She is my mother.

I, I think I better get up and walk up and down.

(gentle music) He's a very nice dog, he's my friend.

He knows how I feel.

>> How do you feel?

Come here.

(gentle music) >> You see, I never was away from my old house before.

It makes a person feel a strange feeling when he has to stay all night in another person's castle instead of his own house.

But Dearest is not very far away from me.

She told me to remember that.

After all, I'm nine you know.

And I can look at the picture she gave me.

Look, you press the spring and it opens and there she is.

(gentle music) >> And I suppose you think you're very fond of her, lad.

>> Yes, I do think so and it's true.

Mr. Hobbs and the others were my friends.

Dearest is my close friend.

My father left her to me to take care of.

When I'm a man I'm going to work and earn money for her.

>> Earl: Oh, what do you think of doing?

>> Well, I do think of growing a business with Mr. Hobbs.

But I should like to be president.

>> We'll send you to the House of Lords instead.

>> Well, I couldn't be president and if that's a good business, I shouldn't mind.

The grocery business is dull sometimes.

>> Yes, so's the House of Lords.

But it's the business that every Earl of Dorincourt goes into.

>> I should have to talk to Dearest about it.

(gentle music) (gentle music) >> Goodnight.

God keep you all the night.

>> Morning, Purvis.

>> Good morning, sir.

>> His lordship?

>> In the library sir.

Such going on I've never heard all my life.

>> Everything seems to be all right for me to see him?

>> Oh, yes sir, he's expecting you.

>> Oh!

(Earl laughing) >> (laughs) Ah, morning Mordaunt.

Found a new employment, you see.

Any good at marbles, Mordaunt?

>> My muscles are a little stiff, my lord.

But I'll see what I can do.

>> It's a pity about that, I'd forgotten about your age.

(Earl laughing) (Earl groaning) This here is the new Lord Fauntleroy.

Fauntleroy this is Mordaunt, rector of the parish.

>> I'm very glad to make your acquaintance, sir.

>> I'm delighted to make your acquaintance, Lord Fauntleroy.

>> Well what is it this morning, Mordaunt?

Who's in trouble now?

>> It's one of your tenants, my lord.

Higgins at Hedge Park.

Newick has told him that if he doesn't pay the rent he must leave the tenancy.

>> He's a bad tenant, always behind, Newick tells me.

>> He's devoted to his wife and children.

If the farm is taken from him, they might literally starve.

>> That's like Michael.

>> Ah!

I forgot we had a philanthropist here.

Come here.

What would you do in this case?

>> Well, if I were very rich, I could let them stay and give him things for his children.

>> Nonsense!

You're Lord Fauntleroy.

It's time you learned to deal with these situations.

You can write, can't you?

>> Yes, but not very well.

>> Well, go over to the desk and write Newick his orders.

>> Now, what must I say?

>> You must say, "Higgins is not to be interfered with for the present."

(Mordaunt sighs) And sign it, Fauntleroy.

>> Do you think it will do?

>> Yes.

Higgins will find it entirely satisfactory.

>> Mr. Hobbs always signs his letters that way and I thought I better say please.

Is that exactly the right way to spell interfered?

>> Well, it's not exactly the way it's spelled in the dictionary, but- >> I was afraid of that.

>> Yes, well, Higgins won't complain of the spelling.

>> I think you must be the best person in the whole world.

Don't you, Mr. Mordaunt?

I shall write and tell Mr. Hobbs.

>> Oh?

What would you tell him?

>> I shall tell him I think you're the kindest man I ever heard of.

And that you're always thinking of other people and making them happy.

And, and that I hope when I grow up I shall be just like you.

>> Hm.

Just like me.

Okay Mordaunt, take that with you.

>> I will indeed, this is good news.

Thank you, my lord.

>> Oh, don't thank me, thank Fauntleroy.

>> Thank you.

>> Goodbye, sir.

>> Goodbye.

(gentle music) >> May I go to see Dearest now?

I think she'll be waiting for me.

>> There's something for you to see in the stable first.

Ring the bell.

>> In the stable?

If you'll please, I'd very much obliged but I think I better see it tomorrow.

She'll be expecting me all the time.

>> Oh, very well.

We'll order the carriage.

You don't care to see what's in the stables.

>> Oh, I do, I do.

>> Oh, it doesn't matter, it's only a pony.

>> Pony!

Who's pony is it?

>> Earl: Yours.

>> Mine?

>> Earl: Yes.

>> Oh, I'd never thought I'd have a pony.

I never thought that!

How glad Dearest will be.

You give me everything, don't you?

>> Wouldn't you like to see it?

>> Of course I want to see it.

I want to see it so much I can hardly wait.

But I'm afraid there isn't time.

(gentle music) >> You must see your mother this afternoon, you can't put it off until tomorrow?

>> Why she's been thinking about me all morning, and I've been thinking about her.

>> Oh, you have been.

I'll ring the bell.

(upbeat music) >> Let me give you your stick, just lean on me when you get out.

>> I'm not going to get out.

(dramatic music) >> Not, not to see Dearest?

>> Yes, you'll excuse me.

Go and tell her that not even your new pony will keep you away.

(pensive music) >> She'll be disappointed, she'll want to see you very much.

>> I'm afraid not.

The carriage will call for you as we come back.

Drive on, Jeffries.

(dramatic music) (bell tolling) >> It's a shame, parted from his own mother.

Who could cause (indistinct).

She's never worked for a sweeter lady than Mrs. Errol.

>> The record was written by the little gentlemen his own self, signed with his name too.

Fauntleroy, as large as life.

>> (laughs) The little precious.

>> Aye, that's the mother.

>> A pretty young thing too.

>> Good morning, ma'am.

>> Good morning.

>> God bless you, ma'am.

>> Thank you.

>> Good morning, ma'am.

>> Good morning.

>> It's his lordship coming to service.

That's a new notion.

(people chattering) >> They say even his gout's improving.

>> Look at the young lord.

>> He's definitely Cedric all over again.

>> He's the captain's self to the life.

(gentle music) >> How glad the people are to see you.

>> Take off your hat, Fauntleroy, they're bowing to you.

>> To me?

How do you do?

>> God bless your lordship.

Long life to ya.

>> Thank you!

>> Crowd: Morning, my lord.

(gentle worshipful music) ♪ Crown Him with many crowns ♪ ♪ The Lamb upon His throne ♪ ♪ Hark how the heavenly anthems sound ♪ ♪ All music but its own ♪ ♪ Awake my soul and sing ♪ ♪ Of Him who died for me ♪ ♪ And hail Him as thy matchless king ♪ ♪ Through all eternity ♪ ♪ Crown Him the virgin's Son ♪ ♪ The God incarnate born ♪ ♪ Whose arm those crimson trophies won ♪ >> May I whisper?

>> What is it?

>> Who are they?

♪ No angel in the sky ♪ >> Some of your ancestors.

From a few hundred years ago.

>> Oh.

Perhaps I got my spelling from them.

♪ The Root, whence mercy ever flows ♪ ♪ The babe of Bethlehem!

♪ (gentle music) >> Hello, Higgins!

>> Oh is this Mr. Higgins?

>> Yes, I suppose he's got to have a look at his new landlord.

>> Yes, my lord.

I understand his young lordship was kind enough to speak for me.

And I thought I'd like to say a word of thanks.

I've got a great deal to thank your lordship for.

>> Oh, I only wrote the letter, it was my grandfather who did it.

You know how good he always is to people.

Is Mrs. Higgins well now?

>> Yes, my lordship.

The missus is better since the cobble was took off her mind.

>> My grandfather was very sorry about your children having the scarlet fever.

>> You see, Higgins.

You people of all have been mistaken about me.

Lord Fauntleroy understands me.

If you want a little reliable information on the subject of my character, apply to him.

Get in the carriage, Fauntleroy.

(bright music) You miss your mother very much?

>> Yes sir, I miss her all the time.

You don't miss her, do you?

>> I don't know her.

>> I know, and that's what makes me wonder.

She told me not to ask any questions and I won't but- >> You see her almost every day, don't you?

Isn't that enough?

>> We used to see each other all the time.

We could tell each other things without waiting.

>> Well don't you ever forget about her?

>> No sir, never.

I shouldn't forget about you, you know.

If I didn't live with you, I should think about you, all the more.

>> Upon my word, I believe you, boy.

(gentle music) >> "He is such a good Earl, he reminds me of you.

He is a universal favorite."

Well, he reminds me of you.

Think of that now.

He's known this Earl only a little while and we, we was lifetime acquaintances.

I don't know as I want him to be reminded of me by this Earl.

>> They've been using him for signing, I betcha.

>> You're right, they got twisty ways, those aristocrats.

They'd wheedle your little finger around your heart as soon as look at you.

All for their own purposes, mind.

>> It's a pity they're making an earl out of him.

>> Yeah, he would've been a shining light in the grocery business, a shining light.

>> Do you know any particulars about that stuff, like castles and earls?

>> No, not much except they're haughty and mean.

>> Sure is a Jim Dandy letter, he wrote.

Almost as good as seeing him.

Only it ain't, of course.

Oh, he was a fine daisy of a kid.

I bet you sometimes he wishes he was back here.

I do.

>> Lonely?

>> Oh, not so bad.

>> Where you living now?

>> Oh me and two other fellas, we got a room in a lodging house.

The other two fellas, they get drunk and fight but it's cheap.

>> Oh that's no sort of a place for a lad like you to be living.

Now look here, I got a clean, dry loft over my stable, and there's an old bed you can have.

Why don't you come here and stay?

Won't cost you a cent.

>> Gee, you mean that, Mr. Hobbs?

>> Why, certainly, I do.

>> Yahoo!

Gee, Mr. Hobbs, talking about earls, you ain't no earl, you're a prince!

>> Oh, sure.

(hooves clopping) (gentle music) >> I wonder why they even have an American accent.

>> My dear, won't it be interesting if he has the Dorincourt eyebrows.

(man laughing) >> When do we see the mother?

>> Shh.

I believe she's supposed to be kept in the background.

(all laughing) (bright music) >> Well, Molyneux, is this the boy?

>> Yes, Constantia, this is the boy.

Fauntleroy, this is your great aunt, Lady Lorridaile.

>> How do you do, great aunt?

>> How do you do, young man?

You're like your father.

I loved him more than most people in this wicked world.

>> Oh, did you know my father?

>> Know him?

Of course I did.

>> Oh, then you must meet Dearest.

She would enormously like to talk to you about him.

You see, I was the only one she could talk about him to who knew him.

But I was so small when he- >> Yes, eh, Fauntleroy, this is your great uncle, Sir Harry Lorridaile.

>> How do you do, sir?

>> I hear you're fond of horses.

>> I confess to you, Constantia, that, well, you'll probably see for yourself.

There's a risk of my becoming rather an old fool about him.

>> Becoming?

By the way, the mother, what does she think of you?

>> I don't know.

I haven't asked her.

>> You must come over to Lorridaile Park one day, and see us.

There's some of the new cocker puppies in the kennels.

You shall have your pick.

>> Well, thank you very much indeed, uncle.

Only, Dougal might be offended.

You see, he's very fond of me, and I really shouldn't like to hurt his feelings.

>> (laughs) Hurt his feelings?

That's a good one.

You hear that comeback?

Hurt his feelings.

(laughs) >> This is Miss Herbert, Fauntleroy.

I want you to be great friends with her.

>> How do you do?

Have you met Dougal?

He shakes hands beautifully.

Shake hands with Miss Herbert, Dougal.

>> Oh, how sweet.

(all laughing) >> He's a great friend of mine.

I like making friends, don't you?

>> Yes, I do.

May I be your friend and your dog?

>> Oh, yes, if you please.

>> How's your lumbago, Montesquieu?

Better, I hope.

>> Thanks.

Much better.

I've known Dorincourt as well as anyone could know him for five and 30 years.

And that's the first time he's ever bothered to inquire about my health, most extraordinary.

>> Ah, Havisham, you're late.

What's kept you?

>> I beg your pardon, my lord.

I was detained by extraordinary news.

>> News?

What?

What news?

>> Not now, if you don't mind.

Later, my lord, later.

(gentle music) ♪ The young May moon is beaming love ♪ ♪ The glow-worm's lamp is beaming love ♪ ♪ How sweet to rove Morna's grove ♪ ♪ While the drowsy world is dreaming love ♪ ♪ Then awake till rise of sun, my dear ♪ ♪ The sage's glass will shun, my dear ♪ ♪ Or in watching the flight of bodies of light ♪ ♪ He might happen to take before one, my dear ♪ (audience applauding) >> Charming.

Charming.

What a sweet song.

>> Thank you, my dear.

>> Thank you, my dear.

Thank you.

>> Do you like music?

>> Yes, I like it when you sing it.

(audience laughing) >> Dear, my lord Fauntleroy, why do you look at me so?

>> I was thinking how beautiful you are.

>> Oh, Fauntleroy, make the most of your time.

When you're older, you'll not have the courage to say that.

>> No, but it could help saying it.

Don't you think she's pretty too?

>> Man: Well, we're not allowed to say what we think.

>> Lord Fauntleroy should say what he thinks.

I'm sure he thinks what he says.

I think you're prettier than anyone I ever saw, except Dearest.

I think she's the prettiest person in the world.

>> I'm sure she is.

>> And I must tell her how kind you've been to me.

I never was at a party before.

And I've enjoyed myself so much.

Oh, I beg your pardon.

(all laughing) >> Good night, little Lord Fauntleroy.

Sleep well.

>> Goodnight.

>> Thank you very much.

(people chattering) >> Good night.

>> Good night.

>> Well, Havisham, what in the world is the matter?

Something serious must have happened to make you behave like this.

What is it?

>> It's bad news.

The very worst of news, my lord.

I'm sorry I have to be the bearer of it.

>> Why did you look at the boy so?

You hang over him like a bird of ill omen.

Has it anything to do with Fauntleroy?

>> My lord, I waste no words.

My news has everything to do with him.

If we're to believe it, it's not Lord Fauntleroy who lies asleep before us, but only the son of Captain Errol.

The present Lord Fauntleroy is the son of your boy, Bevis.

And at this moment, he's in a lodging house in London.

>> What do you mean?

You're mad.

It's a lie, an abominable lie.

>> If it's a lie, it's painfully like the truth.

A woman came to my chambers this morning and told me that she married your son, Bevis, in London 11 years ago.

She showed me the marriage certificate.

The child was born shortly after Bevis deserted her and was taken by her to America.

>> Oh, the woman is obviously an impostor.

This is a trumped-up fraud.

>> I'm afraid not, my lord.

I saw the boy's birth certificate.

She's, I'm afraid, a very ignorant person.

But she's consulted a lawyer who advises her that her son is, of course, Lord Fauntleroy and the rightful heir.

She demands that his claim be immediately acknowledged.

>> I'll protest this to the last.

I'll disown Bevis's boy.

I'll have nothing to do with him or his mother.

>> You can't disown him, my lord.

Nothing we can do can keep the eldest son's child from his inheritance.

(tense somber music) >> The woman you say is a ignorant, vulgar person, eh?

>> Havisham: She can hardly spell her own name.

She's obviously uneducated and openly mercenary.

>> And I, I objected to his mother.

(dramatic music) I suppose it's retribution.

If anyone had ever told me I could be fond of a child, I wouldn't have believed them.

I always detested children, my own more than most.

But I am fond of him.

Oddly enough, he's fond of me.

You know, Havisham, I'm not popular.

I never was.

But he's fond of me.

He never was afraid of me, always trusted me.

Yes, Havisham, he'd have filled my place better than I filled it.

He'd have been an honor for the name.

>> Purvis: You rang, my lord?

>> Take, take Lord Fauntleroy to his room.

(pensive music) >> What a pity, the boys have (indistinct).

>> I suppose you may say it's a judgment on Molyneux.

That boy, the first human being he ever loved.

>> Will Molyneux take the case to the courts, do you think?

>> Can't tell.

He's obstinate enough.

>> The courts are the devil.

You go in with your best suit, buckles on your shoes and come out as nature made you.

Bless my soul, Constantia.

Who ever would have dreamed that I'd have felt sorry for the old boy?

>> I wouldn't have minded our having a boy like that, Harry.

>> Yes, bit of luck for us, old girl, if we had.

>> Yes.

>> I'll tell you one thing, if his little lordship loses his title, the village loses the best friend it has.

>> Mm.

>> Aye, that's right.

And I'll tell you another thing.

It'll drive the earl mad if this goes wrong for him.

Why, he's been so proud of the boy you'd hardly believe it if you knew him from what he was before.

>> And the new one's no lady.

That's sure.

Vole-faced thing, that's what she is.

(scoffs) >> The dark-eyed, brazen-faced wench.

>> It's the earl coming now with Mr. Havisham.

>> Newcomer in here calling herself Lady Fauntleroy.

I want to see her.

>> Aye, come my way, my lord.

This way, my lord.

(knuckles rapping) >> Lady Fauntleroy: Come in.

>> Earl of Dorincourt.

>> Pleased to meet you, I'm sure, my lord.

Bevis.

Go shake hands with your grandpa.

So that's the way you're gonna treat your grandson, is it?

Ah, you needn't try to look so fierce about it.

He's your grandson all right.

>> Ah, yes, my lord.

We have proof of the young gentleman's birth.

He is the son of the late Lord Fauntleroy.

Allow me to introduce myself.

Joshua Snade, at your service.

My card.

I already had the pleasure of making Mr. Havisham's acquaintance.

Lady Fauntleroy has placed all the evidence in my hands.

I can assure you, my lord, it is sufficient to justify her case should it come into court.

But may I suggest that we come to an arrangement and settle this matter amicably on a friendly basis.

>> Friendly?

Ha.

Look at him staring at me as though as I dirt.

Me, he own daughter-in-law.

Oh, your son Bevis married me all right.

And a fine father he was.

But he was the father of my boy, and I can prove it.

>> Snade: Lady Fauntleroy, please.

>> You may think you can fight me.

But a lot of good it will do you.

They don't love you around here, and you know it.

I have heard plenty about you and your dirty, snobbish pride.

Plenty of pride you'll have when I'm finished with you, unless you want to climb down off your high horse and get reasonable with your own flesh and blood.

>> Lady Fauntleroy- >> You shut up.

I'll stop at nothing, do you hear?

I'll drag this case through every court in the land.

I'll let the whole world know what you are, you and your precious son, Bevis, deserting me in his own town, a babe in arms.

How I've suffered heaven only knows.

And you standing there looking at me and my boy as if we were scum.

You ought to be ashamed of yourself.

>> You say you married my eldest son.

If that's proved to be true, the law is on your side.

In that case, your son will be Lord Fauntleroy.

And you will be provided for.

But I warn you, the matter will be sifted to the very bottom.

I'll only add that I want to see nothing of you or your boy as long as I live.

After my death, you can, unfortunately, do as you please.

>> Yes, you're exactly the kind of person that I should have expected my son, Bevis, to choose.

(Lady Fauntleroy laughs) >> I'm afraid, Dorincourt, there can be no true opinions.

At least that's how I see it.

Do you agree Semple?

>> Yes, I'm afraid we could see it no other way.

>> But it's, it's monstrous.

That woman, that boy, are utterly unfit.

>> Alas, the law can take no cognizance of such things.

I sympathize, Dorincourt, more than I can say.

>> You sympathize, what's the use of that?

>> If we take it to the courts, you think there can be only one result?

>> I'm afraid so.

The birth certificate, everything we have, points the same way.

If you take it to court, you have the expense, and the notoriety, and only, I fear, one possible result.

Perhaps the boy won't turn out so badly as you fear.

Perhaps you can do something with him.

>> That boy?

That oaf?

With the other one, yes.

Well, I have no other course but to accept your judgment.

Come Havisham.

>> Thank you, my lord.

And you, Mr. Semple.

>> It's the earl, ma'am, the earl himself.

>> Show him in.

(dramatic music) >> Mrs. Errol, I believe.

>> Yes, I'm Mrs. Errol.

>> I am Lord Dorincourt.

The boy is very like you.

>> People have often said so.

I am glad to think he's like his father too.

>> Yes, he is, like my son.

(gentle music) >> Won't you sit down?

>> Thank you.

I have come to tell you that I've had the very best, the highest legal opinion.

I'm sorry, this outrageous woman and her child.

>> Perhaps she cares for him as much as I care for Ceddie, my lord.

Her son is Lord Fauntleroy.

Mine is not.

>> Yes.

I am afraid you're right.

Perhaps you would prefer that Ceddie should not be the Earl of Dorincourt.

>> It's a very magnificent thing to be the Earl of Dorincourt, my lord.

I know that.

But all I care about is that Ceddie should be what his father was, brave, just, and kind, always.

>> Hmm, a striking contrast to what his grandfather is, eh?

>> I haven't had the pleasure of knowing his grandfather.

I know my little boy believes.

I know that Ceddie loves you.

>> Would he have loved me if you told him why I didn't receive you at the castle?

>> Dearest: No, honestly, I think not.

That's why I didn't wish him to know.

>> Oh, there's very few women who wouldn't have told him.

(gentle music) Yes, Ceddie is fond of me.

And I am fond of him.

I can't say that I was never fond of anyone before.

But he pleased me from the first.

I'm an old man.

I was tired of my life.

But he has given something to live for.

More than that, more than that, I am proud of him.

I was satisfied to think that one day he'd be taking my place as head of the family.

I am miserable, miserable.

(dramatic music) >> Please sit down.

You've been so much troubled, you must be tired.

And you need all your strength.

>> Thank you.

(pensive music) Perhaps it's because I'm miserable that I've come to you.

I used to hate you.

I've been jealous of you.

This wretched, disgraceful business has changed all that.

And after seeing this repulsive woman who, well, I felt a bit of a relief to come to you.

(gentle music) An obstinate old fool, I suppose.

I know I've treated you badly.

But I've come to you because the boy cares for you and because I care for him.

Treat me as well as you can, for the boy's sake.

(gentle music) Whatever happens, he shall be provided for.

Ceddie shall be taken care of now and in the future, always.

>> Dearest: Thank you.

>> You like the house?

>> Oh, very much.

>> It's a cheerful room.

May I come back again and talk this matter over.

>> As often as you wish.

(gentle music) (door clicking) (somber music) >> You've heard bad new, haven't you?

>> Yes.

The worst.

>> Earl, I'm not Lord Fauntleroy anymore, am I?

>> No.

She's beaten me.

>> Then the other boy, he will have to be your boy now, won't he?

Like I was?

>> No!

>> He'll have to live in the castle if he's Lord Fauntleroy, won't he?

>> That common little brat shall never enter this place in my lifetime.

I'll take care of that.

>> Then I can still be your boy, even if I'm not going to be the earl, just like I was before?

>> My boy.

Yes, you'll be my boy as long as I live.

And by Jove, sometimes I think you're the only boy I've ever had.

>> Then I don't care about the earl part at all.

I thought you see, that the one that was going to be the earl had to be your boy.

But I couldn't be.

>> I shall never take anything from you that I can hold for you.

Come what may, you shall have all that I can give, all of it.

>> And Dearest?

Will her house be taken away from her?

>> No.

They can take nothing from her, nothing from either of you.

(gentle music) Come, come, come, come, come.

Time to go to sleep.

(gentle music) >> Ceddie: Good night, grandfather.

>> Good night, my boy.

(bell ringing) (people chattering) >> "The aged earl remains secluded in his castle and refuses to have any communication with the rightful heir."

>> Oh, we know that stuff.

They've been printing that for the past week.

Is there anything new about Ceddie?

>> Yes, here it says that, "The prospects do not look very bright for the false claimant, Cedric, Earl of Brooklyn."

Well, I'm jiggered.

At last, they've succeeded in robbing him out of being an earl.

>> I though you was against earls.

>> So I am.

Ain't it just like them, cheating the poor kid out of his rightful estates.

Now, what's going to become of him?

>> I know one thing.

He done everything in the world for me.

And he can always come back here and have half of my shoe shining business.

>> Well, now, I'll tell you, Dick, I'd have always had it in my mind that Ceddie would come in with me someday.

He'd be a shining light in the grocery business.

>> "The new Lady Fauntleroy was formerly an actress.

She is said to have played in New York and London.

Continued on page five."

Here's a picture of her.

Holy mackerel!

>> What's the matter?

>> Here, look at this.

It's her.

>> Her?

>> She ain't no aristocrat, she ain't.

I know her as good as I know you.

It's Minna.

Ben's wife.

>> Your brother?

>> Sure.

>> You mean, it's some kind of hocus pocus?

>> Dick: Sure, I do.

>> Well, I'm jiggered.

>> She was married before.

But I never ever heard of her having no other kid but Ben's kid.

>> You mean the one Ben went out to Chicago to look for?

>> Dick: Sure.

>> Maybe she had another kid in England.

Yeah, maybe she did and maybe she didn't.

>> Hobbs: We've got to do something about this.

>> You're dead right we got to.

>> But we got to get the proper advice.

>> Gee, I wished I knew Alderman Murphy.

>> I know Alderman Murphy.

>> You do?

>> Yeah, come along.

Let's go right now.

Them earls, they've always had a spite against us Americans ever since the revolution.

>> What a place.

What a hole.

I'm sick to death of it, cooped up here, week in and week out with nobody to talk to.

>> You're complimentary.

>> I wasn't meaning to be.

>> And grateful.

>> You're getting your money, aren't you?

>> Business is business, you know?

>> Business.

I'm sick of business.

I want some fun.

>> Why don't you go up to London for a while?

>> London?

Huh, not on your tin pipe.

Nothing would please that old devil up at the castle better than to see me clear out.

Well, I'll stay here here in this rotten country pub.

>> You've lived in worse places in your time, I have no doubt.

>> That's none of your business.

You keep a civil tongue in your head, or I'll hand you your walking papers.

>> I wouldn't.

>> What do you mean?

>> Just what I said.

I wouldn't try anything like that, Minna.

>> I'm Lady Fauntleroy to you.

>> Ha, ha.

(knuckles rapping) >> Come in.

Why, it's Lord Dorincourt.

Why, this is a pleasure, a real pleasure, I'm sure.

Won't you take a- >> Hello, Minna.

>> Why, hello, Dick.

Why, Ben, what are you doing here?

Where have you been all this time?

>> Do you know her?

>> Funny if he didn't, seeing as how he was my second husband.

>> Where is the child?

>> Minna: What child?

>> You know what child, our boy, Tom.

>> Oh, Ben.

But you know, you must have heard.

Someone must have told you.

I meant to write you but I didn't know where you were.

>> If that's true, who is this boy you've got with you?

>> Minna: That's none of your business Ben Tipton.

(door clicking) >> Ben: Can I see him?

>> Minna: No, you can't.

>> Earl: Tell us, please, why Mr.Tipton should not see your boy.

>> Oh, hello, Uncle Dick.

>> Well, I'll be jiggered.

>> Oh, Ma, (indistinct).

>> Stop!

You're a dirty pair, you are, coming all this way to spy on me, trying to do me hurt.

I'll have the law on you for the way you're hounding me.

You, you.

>> Cut it out.

>> Come here, Tom.

>> I knew nothing of this, my lord, I assure you.

>> There's a little matter of a forged birth certificate.

>> But I swear to you- >> Oh, never mind, Havisham, I've had enough of this, too much.

The sooner the pair of you are out of this country, the better.

Come on, Havisham.

>> Minna: You'll be sorry for this, you will.

It's prosecution.

That's what it is.

It's robbery.

>> This will be somewhat in the manner of a museum, my lord.

>> Well, no, not exactly a museum, Mr. Hobbs.

They're portraits of my ancestors.

>> Your ancestors, all of them?

I'll be jiggered.

Your great uncle, he must have had a family.

Did he raise them all?

>> I mean that they were earlier distinguished members of the family.

>> You know, Earl, I used to have a very poor opinion of you aristocracy.

But I've changed.

Now, take you, for instance.

You're a pretty good sort even if you are an earl.

>> I'm very gratified.

>> A bit gay, wasn't he?

Yes, that's why I had the gout, Mr. Hobbs.

>> Oh.

And they was all earls.

Ceddie is going to be one and own all of this.

>> And he'll be worthy of it, Mr. Hobbs.

>> Sure, he will.

All these earls.

You know, I wouldn't have minded being one myself.

>> Hm.

(audience applauding) >> Crowd: Speech!

Speech!

Speech!

Speech!

Speech!

Speech!

>> Thank you very much.

It's such a lovely day.

I always like having birthdays, but never one so much as this, because you're all so kind to me.

My grandfather wants everybody to be happy and comfortable.

Now, I want it too when I'm grown up.

I think that's all, because I'm not very good at making speeches.

But I must say that I'm very much obliged to you for liking my birthday.

(audience applauding) >> Ripping little nipper.

>> Ain't he a daisy.

I bet you boys elect him king someday.

(Newick coughs) >> I didn't know the little fellow could talk so good.

Why he makes a better speech than Alderman Murphy, by Jove.

>> (gasps) Well, I'll be jiggered.

>> And I have another birthday present for you.

>> Another one besides all the things this morning?

>> Yes, best of them all.

>> Oh, Dearest.

Oh, Dearest.

Oh, Dearest, I was wanting you here.

I was wanting you here so terribly much.

>> Were you, darling?

>> Fauntleroy, your mother has come to live with us in the castle.

>> To live with us, to live with us for always?

>> Are you sure you really want me.

>> We've always wanted you, but we weren't exactly aware of it.

>> Well, Mr. Hobbs, it's so nice having you here with us.

I dread to think of you ever going back to America.

Not to live there.

Not to live there.

America is a good enough country for them that's young and stern.

But there's faults in it.

There's not ancestor among them, nor an earl.

(gentle music) (dramatic music)