It's Great to Be Young! (1956) - full transcript
Mr. Dingle is the popular music teacher in an English school, but when the headmaster threatens to close down the school band (partly because of Dingle's fondness of more modern music) then the pupils have to come to his assistance, using their musical skills to help.
♪ You are my first love ♪
♪ My first and last love ♪
♪ We'll make this love last ♪
♪ For evermore ♪
♪ We'll prove a love
As young as Spring ♪
♪ Keeps glowing ♪
♪ Even though the chill November wind ♪
♪ Keeps blowing ♪
♪ We'll show that two hearts ♪
♪ Two young but true hearts ♪
♪ Can do what few hearts ♪
♪ Have done before ♪
♪ Till the sun grows cold ♪
♪ Till time stands still ♪
♪ We'll feel the magic thrill ♪
♪ Of our first love ♪
♪ We'll always be comrades ♪
♪ Still bound by our song ♪
♪ So sing up you Angels ♪
♪ And let your voices ring ♪
♪ Our hearts will be light ♪
♪ If this song we always sing ♪
♪ The years lie before us ♪
♪ So let us sing in chorus ♪
♪ And always we'll remember ♪
♪ The Angel Hill Song ♪
Silence!
Fellow teachers, scholars
of the Angel Hill Grammar School...
He's off.
Today we reassemble
once again for yet another term.
Once more our little ship sets sail
upon the sea of knowledge
for yet one more voyage of discovery--
Yet today is an auspicious one
for there is a new hand at the helm,
a new face upon the bridge.
In short,
we embark today under a new captain.
He's making me seasick.
So without more ado,
I welcome you all back to school
and ask you to join with me in bidding
welcome to our new headmaster... Mr. Frome.
I take it we may now proceed without
further accompaniment from the orchestra.
Good. Now to business.
First, I thank you all for your welcome.
Second, I don't like making speeches
and I'm equally sure that
you don't like listening to them.
Third, I ask you all
to remember one thing.
We are here to work,
all of us.
If you work well...
we shall get on together.
You may now dismiss to your classrooms.
Dismiss. No talking!
- What do you think, Ginger?
- Hmm.
I don't know. At least he doesn't go on
spouting for hours which is something.
We ought to give him a fair trial.
- Go on, get off me!
- Pack it up you twerps, pack it up.
I think the new head
has a sad face really.
I bet you anything
he's had a big tragedy in his life.
Paulette, why you have to think everyone
has a split personality? I don't know.
- The head looks perfectly normal to me.
- "Normal"?
He's a headmaster, isn't he?
I've never met a normal one yet.
The principal powers concerned
in the Congress of Vienna were England,
Russia... Austria and France...
France?
- Yes, sir. I think so.
- Well, think again Morris, think again.
- What's this?
- Brandy balls, sir.
"Brandy balls"? Brandy balls!
It is more blessed to give
than to receive, my angel.
Morris, have you thought?
- Well--
- What is it?
Was Beethoven alive at this time, sir?
"Was Beethoven alive"?
My dear child he was more alive than
the rest of Europe put together. Riley!
- Sir?
- What do you remember of Wellington?
Umm... boots, sir.
Exactly, Wellington Boots.
What do you remember of Beethoven,
eh? Come on, Beethoven!
Er...
That's enough!
I may look like an idiot, Paulette,
but let me assure you
I've got my wits about me.
- Yes, sir. Of course sir.
- "Yes sir. Of course sir."
You think that you've only
to mention music to me
and I'll forget
all about history, don't you?
Oi!
You, what's that?
Knitting, sir.
I know it's knitting, dear,
I can see it's knitting.
It couldn't possibly be anything else.
What kind of knitting?
Well sir, it's for a baby.
A baby.
Yes sir. My sister's.
It's a very sweet thought, Peggy.
A sweet and sisterly thought.
Next time, why not bring the baby as well?
After all,
this is only a history lesson, isn't it?
History really doesn't matter, does it?
- No sir.
- No.
- I mean... yes, sir.
- Beg pardon sir.
That talk on the instruments
of the orchestra has started.
You asked me to remind you, sir.
You too, Putnam?
We'll stick to the Congress of Vienna...
if you don't mind.
Yes sir...
Quiet! Quiet!
Everyone stand still.
While you are in the school buildings,
you will do your utmost to disguise
the fact that you are hooligans.
Go back to your classrooms
and come out again
with some semblance
of order and decency.
Sorry, headmaster. Tea...
If you don't get there quickly,
the blighters pinch the lot!
For Heaven's sake,
give me a cup of tea.
There's just enough
if we squeeze the pot.
- I've just had the shock of my life.
- What's the matter, Harry?
The new head's been going
through the timetables.
He's cut my first 11 practice right out.
Right out! Can you imagine?
About time too. This is a school,
not a blessed football team.
I still can't believe it.
Do you know the fellow's got no idea
of sport at all. No idea at all.
- That makes two of us.
- It does seem rather cruel.
Don't suppose he's ever
kicked a foot ball in his life,
wouldn't know one if he saw it.
Do come in, headmaster.
I think we can manage a cup of tea.
No, I won't, thank you.
Oh, Mr. Dingle.
You wanted me, headmaster?
Yes. I wondered if we could have
a session together after lunch.
After lunch...
Wait a minute now... er...
Yes, that'll be all right. I've got
a rehearsal of the orchestra then.
Good chance for
you to hear what they can do.
Thank you. I'm sorry
I interrupted your break.
Oh by the way, Paterson,
I believe I have seen a foot ball.
As I remember it,
it's a spherical leather case
containing a rubber inner tube
which is inflated by air
and then sealed.
Quite an ingenious device.
The man's got a sense of humour.
I'm going to like him!
The academic subjects are the ones
to be emphasized I think, don't you?
Well I think there's too much emphasis
on dates and facts and figures.
That's what's wrong
with modern schooling.
Indeed.
What does it really do to a kid to teach
him about, say, the Congress of Vienna?
It might give him a sense of
the movement of history, don't you think?
Movement be blowed.
You know better than that.
But give 'em music,
teach 'em to appreciate sound...
There's more real education in that
than a dozen blooming Congresses.
- Where's your hat, boy?
- In... in me pocket, sir.
In my pocket, in my pocket... not me.
Yes sir, in your pocket,
I mean, in--
- Wear it boy, wear it.
- Yes sir.
You know the school rules?
Yes sir.
Well now, take Beethoven for instance.
Mr. Dingle, if we could leave
your private theories on education aside
for a moment...
tell me about the School Orchestra.
Well... er... I think
you're going to be impressed.
I think we've got the makings
of a fine little orchestra.
Mind you, we're short
on wood and brass... very short.
Quite.
If I could get a horn,
two trombones and a clarinet.
Yes, yes. You concentrate
on serious music, on the classics?
Oh yes, exclusively, exclusively.
Mind you, I like
a spot of jazz myself, don't you?
Personally I find it detestable....
In my view, it ruins character.
Up, up!
Up!
Mr. Dingle.
We can discuss this
more easily tomorrow morning.
Excuse me, sir...
I... I'm sorry sir. Don't go.
We were... just relaxing.
If you'd give us a chance to play.
- You're a prefect aren't you?
- Yes sir.
Your name?
Putnam, sir.
I expect my prefects to keep control
in the absence of masters.
I shall have something
to say to you later... Putnam.
Miserable old twerp.
That will cost you 200 lines, Riley.
Worth it.
Then we'll make it 400.
And I wanted you to make
a good impression...
And how many times
do I have to tell you Putnam,
you must stroke the notes out,
not force them.
You're playing a trumpet
not blowing up paper bags.
Excuse me, headmaster.
I wanted to ask you whether someone
could take my maths period this afternoon...
I have to go to the--
Well done Putnam, jolly good.
Ah there we are Riley.
Sit down.
Four hundred lines, wasn't it?
Let's see if we can think
of something interesting.
"I must learn to keep my mouth shut
then I shan't put my foot in it."
Let's hope the thought
does you some good.
Three hundred lines you said, sir?
Riley, Riley, Riley. Will you never learn?
The actual figure was 500... goodnight.
Goodnight, sir.
Oh, clear off, you blokes.
I've got to do 500 before I can go.
That's what we're here for.
Five hundred...
There's ten of us, that's 50 a piece.
Come on get cracking.
But old Dingle'll know
it's not my writing.
He only ever looks at the first page.
We'll shove yours on top.
I believe that
strong measures are necessary
and I ask your full cooperation.
Discipline must be tightened
and there must be
a much greater emphasis
on the primary purpose
of the school... study.
Netball,
cricket, football
may be excellent pursuits,
but they are secondary.
The result of our last terms
examinations was a disgrace.
Until we do better,
our other activities must be curtailed.
Mr. Dingle.
Yes?
It had crossed my mind that
we should disband the School Orchestra.
Disband it?
It crossed my mind I said.
But perhaps that would be a bit too hasty.
We will therefore
merely limit its activities a little.
In future,
all rehearsals will be held
outside of school hours
and even those must not be allowed
to interfere with homework.
Are you all right Mr. Dingle?
We don't want to lose you just yet.
I thank you ladies and gentlemen
for giving me your time and attention.
The other measures I have in mind
can be taken up later... good night.
Just a minute, headmaster.
I'd like to speak to you
about the new instruments.
- Instruments?
- Yes.
At the last staff meeting,
it was more or less agreed
that the school should buy
some more instruments for the orchestra.
- I want a tuba, two trombones--
- So I believe.
I'm sorry Mr. Dingle,
it's out of the question.
- Mr. Frome!
- Yes?
You don't mean what you said about not
buying the new instruments and rehearsals?
I seldom if ever say
what I don't mean, Mr. Dingle.
But I've entered our orchestra
for the National Festival
of School Orchestras.
Very commendable.
I hope they do well.
But you don't understand.
We haven't got a chance--
I've no time to argue Mr. Dingle.
And now if you would concentrate
some of your undoubted energy
on the rather duller academic subjects,
we should all be
most grateful to you. Goodnight.
Go on Nicky. They're your favourites.
I brought them specially.
Thanks awfully, Paulette,
but I don't feel like eating.
I know.
You ask me,
Frome's an absolute Philistine.
He wants his brains dusted.
I spoke to my father too.
He's sure he could get
the instruments cheap.
What's the use of discussing it?
The Head's attitude is just
too juvenile to be true.
If it ain't the Upper Sixth
sitting on their rear ends as usual.
Oh, scram microbe or I'll crown you.
And I suppose you big fellows
will let him get away with it.
Hop it young 'un, hop it.
- Nicky you don't suppose...
- Sh...
Leave him be.
The great man's thinking.
Again we find Blake
in his more questioning mood
when he wrote...
Tyger Tyger, burning bright
In the forests of the night...
You continue, Paulette.
What immortal hand or eye
Could frame thy fearful symmetry?
Browning.
What the hammer?
What the chain? In what--
- Are you with us, Putnam?
- Yes, sir.
What subjects are we discussing?
Drake, sir.
Tell him, Marion.
William Blake, sir.
Precisely.
No relation to the Admiral,
my angel, none whatsoever!
Now we all have the question
of the orchestra on our minds, Putnam.
But we mustn't let it get us down,
must we?
No sir. I was only wondering, sir.
Would Mr. Frome object
if we... found a way to raise the money
and bought the instruments ourselves?
I have no way of reading
the headmaster's mind, Putnam.
But I suppose if the money didn't
come out of the school funds...
Any ideas?
- Not really, sir.
- Then what are we wasting time for?
Continue with the poem, Browning.
What the hammer?
What the chain?
No, no, no, dear boy.
We're reciting poetry
not making puff pastry.
Like this.
What the hammer? What the chain?
In what furnace was thy brain?
What the anvil?
What dread grasp?
Dare its deadly terrors clasp?
When the stars threw down their spears
And watered heaven with their tears
Did he smile his work to see?
Did he who made the lamb make thee?
Tyger, Tyger burning bright
In the forests of the night...
If we all work together
we will be able to make it.
So that's my idea...
We can either lie down
and let them walk on us
or we can fight back
and I'm for fighting back.
So I say let's have a go!
Well I think
it's a smashing idea, Nicky,
but I couldn't take part.
My mum would be furious.
That's your own fault. You should've
brought your parents up better.
I vote for it.
Well I vote, we take a vote.
Hey wait a minute,
what about old Dingle?
When we've made up
our own minds, we'll talk to him.
Right. Those in favour of Nicky's scheme
raise your right hand.
Okay, fine.
I say Nicky, can I come too?
You... you'll be where all good little boys
should be... in bed.
Go on, scram, vamoose!
- Nicky.
- What?
I could tell the head.
But I won't.
Yeah.
But it's in our own time, sir.
We can do what we like in our own time.
No.
But if we could raise the money, it would
show the head just how keen we are.
No.
I'm sorry you won't come in with us,
but it's been agreed by a majority vote.
We shall go ahead, sir.
And if you should change your mind,
we're meeting outside the Corn Exchange
at seven o'clock tonight.
Oi, oi... What are you trying to do?
Take the bread out of me mouth?
Now look son, go on, 'op it.
Hop it before I skin you alive...
and that goes for you too.
Go on, the lot of you, 'op it.
Ladies and gentlemen,
the first trick I am about to show you
has never yet been performed in public.
Now it took me years
to perform this trick
and you're very lucky people...
They don't seem
to appreciate this stuff, do they?
No.
We'll have to er...
broaden our appeal a bit, I think.
- Hot it up, you mean, sir?
- Well in for a penny, in for a pound.
Okay sir. And I'll rope in
some of the younger kids,
that'll soften them up a bit.
Good-oh. I'll get to work
on some of the girls. We'll show 'em.
Come on.
♪ Rhythm is our business
Rhythm is what we sell ♪
♪ Rhythm is our business
Business sure is swell ♪
♪ If you're feeling blue
Rhythm's what you need ♪
♪ If you've got rhythm
You're sure to succeed ♪
♪ Rhythm is our business
Rhythm is what we sell ♪
♪ He plays saxophone in the band ♪
♪ He plays saxophone in the band ♪
♪ When he runs up and down the scale
You'll get hot without fail ♪
♪ Rhythm is our business
Rhythm is what we sell ♪
♪ He's a drummer man in the band ♪
♪ He's a drummer man in the band ♪
♪ When he does tricks with his sticks ♪
♪ The boys in the band all play
Hot licks ♪
♪ Rhythm is his business
That's what he sells ♪
♪ Rhythm is what we sell ♪
♪ Feeling blue is what you need ♪
♪ If you've got rhythm
You're sure to succeed ♪
♪ Rhythm is our business
Rhythm is what we sell ♪
♪ Rhythm is what we sell
Rhythm ♪
Three pounds, four shillings
and twopence farthing, sir.
Cor not bad for one night.
Jolly good.
We need about 200 pounds in all.
At this rate, we'll be old and grey
before we get it.
I don't know. Lemme see,
three pounds a night, seven nights a week...
in about ten weeks or so we'd be--
We'd be dead.
Sir, my father's
in the music business.
- Could I talk to him?
- How would that help us?
Oh my dad's a fair wonder.
He can fiddle any...
I mean he's got tons of ideas.
Well there's no harm
in asking his advice.
Right.
Hey what're you doing with that.
I'm the treasurer.
Don't worry, it's safe.
All good things must come to an end...
School tomorrow...
Go on, buzz off
and let me drink my coffee in peace.
- Goodnight, sir.
- Goodnight.
Thanks for coming sir.
You're a sport.
I'm an idiot, but we'll let that pass.
Mr. Dingle, sir.
I thought I told you
to go home to bed.
I had to wait
until the others went home, sir.
I've just got to speak
to you, you see. I must...
Won't it do as well tomorrow?
No, I must speak to you alone.
It's private you see... personal,
and very urgent.
You'd better sit down
and tell me about it.
What is it, Paulette?
What's on your mind?
Oh, it isn't me, sir.
It's a friend of mine.
You see this friend is involved
in a terribly tragic situation.
Absolutely awful.
You see, there are two boys...
I mean men.
And they're both terribly attractive
and this friend likes them both.
And she doesn't know
which one to choose.
It's a triangle, you see?
An eternal triangle.
Yes, it's... er... tricky.
Oh, terribly tricky.
Hmm...
Er... has your... friend
spoken to her mother about this?
Oh it's no good doing that.
She'd only laugh and tell me--
tell her not to be silly.
She's all right but she just
wouldn't understand as you do.
Well it's...
it's hardly my territory, you know?
But she's got to decide.
She's just got to decide.
Er... these two young men,
are you quite sure they both feel
the same way about your friend?
Oh yes,
but they haven't exactly said, of course.
But she knows.
A woman can always tell.
Yes.
How old is your friend?
About your age?
Yes. Yes... She's not a child.
Well it's tough,
this relationship between men and women
is... is never easy, you know.
Oh it's terribly complex.
I... I had a friend once
who took up gardening.
He was worried about some seeds
he'd planted. You know what he did?
Dug them all up
to see why they wouldn't grow.
Well naturally he killed the lot.
Oh that was stupid.
Yes, of course. He realises now that
you shouldn't try to, er, rush nature.
Get it?
Well it's the same with your friend,
she... she should wait,
carry on just as she is.
What? With two men?
Well... er... well... er... not quite, no.
I mean she shouldn't try to hurry things.
She won't have to wait long.
One afternoon, one evening,
she'll be with these two fellows
and suddenly, without any warning...
the lightning will strike.
She'll know beyond any shadow of doubt
which one she wants.
Now you...
You just tell her
to wait for the lightning.
Yes I will... the lightning.
Come on young woman, home.
I'll have your father chasing me.
- I'll see you to the corner.
- Thank you.
The new instruments, they're here.
- You're kidding!
- Hurry up, you twerps.
I'll tell him to drive on the back
of the gym. You get Dingle there somehow.
- Right!
- There's no time to lose.
- But how the Dickens--
- I'll explain later.
Good thing the head isn't here today.
Round the back driver.
Music should be a compulsory subject
in all schools.
- Come now...
- Don't come now me, Routledge.
If you'd been taught to appreciate music
you wouldn't have
such an infernal grudge against life.
Me, a grudge? Oh really.
I did start to learn the piano accordion.
"Piano acc--" I'm talking of music, Wyvie,
not the grumblings and rumblings
of a tortured tummy.
Don't stand there hissing, boy.
Don't you ever knock?
- Answer. Answer.
- I came for Mr. Dingle, sir.
It's urgent sir... about the orchestra.
All right, Putnam.
Orchestra!
Do you know what's wrong with the world,
my dear dim-witted colleague?
No harmony, proportion, rhythm.
We spend too much time
stuffing this... or this,
when it's this we should be
worrying about. The heart, the soul...
More music, my friend, music!
Have a biscuit.
Ugh.
Who brought these?
My father's firm, sir.
They're new instruments.
I've got eyes, Morris.
Come on, speak up.
Uh... Well sir, you see sir...
it's like this...
I... I explained it all to my father
and he said he'd like to help us.
That's very noble of him.
He said we can have this stuff
on the glad and sorry... special terms.
Glad and sorry?
Never, never... Instalment plan.
So much down and the rest every month.
It's very interesting.
I gave him the cash we collected
as a deposit.
He said he'd make it easy for you.
You just have to sign these papers.
What a cheek!
The whole thing
is absolutely preposterous!
It would take years... to... er...
It'd... It'd take years to er...
Well I suppose there's... no harm
in trying them now they're here, is there?
- You try it, sir.
- Go on sir.
Perhaps that one's too hard for you, sir.
Why don't you try something easier?
My angels, for the first time, you're
really beginning to sound like something.
We're going to keep them, sir?
Naturally. Morris' father has gone
to a great deal of trouble.
We can't let him down, can we?
Morris, give me those papers.
- Excuse me, sir. Am I in, sir?
- In?
From now on Lawson, you are
an indispensable part of the orchestra.
Where on earth did you learn
to play like that, eh?
My father, sir.
He's in the London Philharmonic sir.
The London Philharmonic?
Ladies and gentlemen,
incline your heads. Show proper respect.
The son of a real musician is amongst us.
Good!
Don't stand there grinning like
Cheshire cats... put those things away.
Class in two minutes.
Will it be all right with the headmaster,
sir? About the instruments.
Well, I don't think that Mr. Frome
has quite the same approach to music
as we have, Putnam.
But... I think things will work out.
Yes, I don't think
we need worry on that score.
Riley, step out to the board
if you don't feel too tired
and write down the names
and dates of all the major battles
in the Peninsular War.
Sir... sir... the instruments, sir.
Mr. Routledge, sir.
He's locked them all up!
Big padlock, sir.
He says it's the headmaster's orders, sir.
Putnam, take charge and carry on.
Locking them up, are they?
- Headmaster.
- Do come in, I was expecting you.
Did you give orders
for the instruments to be locked away?
- I did.
- May I ask why?
- Sit down, Mr. Dingle.
- I didn't come here to sit down, sir.
- I came to demand--
- "Demand"?
Sit down, please.
This is the reason.
Well.
The Director of Education
has already been on to me.
You have made a laughing
stock of the school.
Absolute nonsense!
Nonsense or not, Mr. Dingle,
those instruments will remain locked up.
They will not be used again
without my permission.
But you can't do that!
They don't even belong to...
- You were about to say?
- That doesn't matter...
But what does matter is rehearsal.
Unless we can rehearse,
we won't qualify for the festival.
And unless our pupils concentrate on their
studies, they won't qualify for anything.
Scraping a violin won't win scholarships.
Is that your last word?
It is.
Supposing I said I couldn't
carry on teaching under such conditions...
You would be a great loss to the school.
- Oh, well in that case I'll...
- Yes?
- I'll... er...
- Well?
Carry on teaching.
Oh, stop it, Lawson.
It sets my teeth on edge.
Dry up young 'un.
We're in no mood for music.
He's too young to understand.
And you're supposed to be sixth formers.
I give up.
In the Lower Fourth,
we don't give in so easily.
Oh pipe down.
Oh!
Riley!
Come on boy, don't lounge there!
Oh, Lord!
Oh...
Look at him.
Few weeks ago, he was normal.
Oh I don't know...
This business of the relationship
between men and women is pretty complex.
Complex, my foot...
That stuff's for cissies.
Holding hands...
Have you ever thought of a girl...
well, in that way?
Never.
Well, take me for instance...
What do you think of me, Nicky?
You? You're a good sport.
Oh, that's all?
Oh, dry up old girl.
You're beginning to talk like a woman.
I am a woman.
Well, that ain't to boast about.
You know Paulette, I've been thinking.
Young Lawson was right.
Why should we let Old Frome
get away with it?
There must be something we can do.
Catch.
Give me a cheque for the first down
payment and I'll make it easy for you.
The first down payment?
I thought that had been paid.
Good gracious me, no!
Twenty pounds is the first down payment.
I've only had four and that leaves
a balance of 16 pounds to pay.
See, it's in the agreement.
Yes... That's a bit of a shock!
Still that... can't be helped, I suppose.
Yes... I...
I'd better let you have
my personal cheque for the balance.
- All right?
- Naturally.
And you'll see that the rest of
the money must be paid over 12 months...
eighteen pounds a month.
- It's... four pounds ten a week, isn't it?
- Uh huh.
That's a bit of a tight squeeze.
Not to worry,
that's the thing, Mr. Dingle.
If you get a bit behind,
well, I know I can trust you.
My son told me you're a gentleman.
With due respect, Mr. Morris,
your son is no judge of that.
- Thank you.
- Thank you.
I'm up to my neck.
I can't get hold of the instruments
without spilling the beans to the head.
- So I've got to pay for them.
- Oh you are in a mess, dear.
I just have to cut down
on my beer, that's all.
Oh you can't do that,
you've got to have your vitamins.
Two browns.
Why don't you get a part-time job
teaching music?
I have enough teaching all day, really.
- No, no, no, no. You've got it wrong.
- Eh?
You've got it wrong.
It goes like this... see?
See?
- Come on, you have a bash, guv'nor.
- What?
Yes, come on.
Come on, let's see
the whites of your eyes.
We've got to do something.
Somehow or other we've got
to get hold of those instruments
so that we can rehearse.
- Right?
- Right.
I vote that you and Crowther and Ginger
form a committee to work it out.
Otherwise we'll go on nagging all night.
- Okay, agreed?
- Agreed.
Browning... Peggy... You with us?
- Oh yes, yes!
- Good.
And we all agree
to stick together come what may.
- Whatever happens we'll fight!
- To the death.
Discussion is only useful in so far
as it contributes directly or indirectly--
Scrag him!
Last orders, please!
♪ My old man said follow the band ♪
♪ Don't dilly-dally on the way ♪
♪ Off went the van
With the home packed in it ♪
♪ And I walked behind
With my old cock linnet ♪
♪ I dillied and dallied
Dallied and dillied ♪
♪ Lost my way
And don't know where to roam ♪
♪ You can't trust the specials
Like the old time coppers ♪
♪ When I can't find my way home ♪
♪ I've got sixpence
Jolly jolly sixpence ♪
♪ I've got sixpence
To last me all my life ♪
♪ I've got twopence to lend ♪
♪ And twopence to spend ♪
♪ And twopence to send home to my wife ♪
♪ No cares have I to grieve me ♪
♪ No silly little girl to deceive me ♪
♪ I'm as happy as a king believe me ♪
♪ As I go rolling home ♪
♪ Rolling home, rolling home
Rolling home, rolling home ♪
♪ By the light of the silvery moon ♪
♪ I'm as happy as a king believe me ♪
♪ As I go rolling home ♪
Time gentlemen please.
Come on now,
we're five minutes overtime as it is.
I don't want to lose me licence, you know.
Come on Jack, drink up.
- Where'd you dig him up from Alex?
- Ah!
- He's a very fine pianist that bloke.
- Ah yes!
Good night.
Bye bye.
- Goodnight old boy.
- Goodnight.
Well, I enjoyed that.
That was a smashing show
you put up tonight.
Well, it's not my usual line,
but it didn't go down too badly, did it?
How would you like to do it regular?
- What?
- I'd pay you.
Four quid and free beer.
Four nights a week.
Where's your manners?
He's a school teacher. You'll offend him.
Oh no, not a bit.
I'm... I'm flattered.
I told you to take
a spare time job, didn't I?
- Four pounds a week?
- Yeah.
And free beer.
Alex my friend, it's a deal.
Four pounds a week and free beer.
With those words,
you have written a symphony
which would make even Beethoven bow down
before you bareheaded and boggle.
Goodnight.
And you see, sir, since the instruments
really belong to the orchestra,
there could be no harm
in our taking them could there, sir?
And how do you propose... taking them?
You've seen those padlocks?
- Yes.
- We've worked all that out, sir.
Crowther thinks he could blow
the doors off the cupboards, sir.
Very subtle.
If you want the whole world to know
what you're up to that is the best scheme.
What do you suggest, sir?
Suggest?
You're asking me to suggest ways and means
of breaking into the school property?
It's preposterous!
Blowing doors off cupboards...
I suppose the next thing you'll want
is to take an impression of the locks
and make new keys.
Make the keys!
Then we could put the stuff back
after we've used it
and no one any the wiser!
Precisely.
As you say Putnam,
a fantastic suggestion.
I want to hear no more about it.
Keys!
How's it going?
Finished!
Oh, good, come on!
- You got it?
- Of course.
Right. Lawson, Morris... Take one end
of the gym each and keep cave.
If anyone comes give us
an owl's call. Like this.
l can't do an owl.
But I can do a yellow billed willow
warbler, or a white tailed sea eagle.
Do a cuckoo, twerp.
You others, follow me.
Peggy, stay here with the cart.
- Right.
- I'd better stay here too.
All right.
Right, come on.
- I got them open!
- Sh... Shut up, you idiot!
Cuckoo.
- Cave.
- Get down!
Cuckoo.
Cuckoo.
- By the way, I meant to tell you--
- Wait!
- Cuckoo.
- There it goes. again.
- A cuckoo!
- A cuckoo at this time of the year?
It is extraordinary.
I really must write
to The Times about it.
Yes I should. It's most unusual.
Quick,
give me a hand with the cart.
Here he is, quick, tell them!
Hello, Paulette.
- What's all the hoo-ha about?
- We've got a surprise for you, sir.
Inside.
Mmm...
Quite a party!
Rehearsing, Putnam?
- Yes sir.
- Hmm...
Carry on, please.
No, no, no, no, no, no!
Terrible, terrible! If you're going
to rehearse, do it properly!
Fiddles, that first beat is a down beat.
I want a down bow,
not an up bow, a down bow.
Right, come on now, pay attention!
Try not to make it sound like a pack of
hounds being run over by a steam roller.
Right, that's enough.
Here we go.
No, no, no, no, no, no, no, no, no.
Hands up anybody
who can't read music.
Nobody?
Alright then, read it!
Look at those first few bars.
Look at them, don't look at me.
Look at the bars... look at them!
♪ Ta tum tum ta, ta ta ta, ta tum ♪
Pomposo, pomposo!
You know what that means, Putnam?
- Yes sir.
- Alright, pomposo it up a bit then!
Come on! Right.
Come on, here goes.
A very good finish,
ladies and gentlemen.
Bassoon, you were in too early again.
There were far too many
back stage noises from the kitchen,
but you're beginning to show real
improvement after eight weeks' hard work.
Jolly good!
All right. Break now.
Do you really think
we're coming on, sir?
You'll pass with a good push.
But don't let it go to your head now.
- Heavens! I'm late.
- Late?
Yes, work...
More music, different kind... bye.
Goodbye, sir.
Compliments of the boss.
Evening Madge, evening, sir.
What's the poison?
- Gin and tonic, please Rene.
- Scotch please.
What did I tell you?
Isn't he absolutely smashing?
Yes, sounds like it.
Made the world of difference
to this pub.
And a tonic.
You must come
and look at his hands... they're fantastic.
That's a right... Thank you.
Yes, he absolutely sends me too.
He plays here every night?
Practically. Three other pubs
have been after him.
- Drink up.
- What's that?
Drink up. We're going.
Oh don't be so absurd.
We've only just got here.
Never mind. I'm going.
Are you coming?
Oh all right.
You're worse than a flea at a picnic.
You can't keep in one place
for five minutes.
Bravo!
There may be some reasonable explanation.
Explanation?
Thumping a piano in a public house?
I'm not in the habit of judging a man
or his motives until I know the facts.
I shall speak to Mr. Dingle.
I expect this is him now.
Come in.
- Mr. Frome.
- My name is Frome.
Ah yes... my card.
Mellotone Musical Instrument Company.
Very pleased to meet you Mr. Frome.
Now I've got something here
that will interest you... an organ.
A modern super deluxe electric organ.
Do you know how many stops and pedals?
Over 150.
But... I'm not going to try
and sell you now, Mr. Frome.
I'm just going to leave you
these few things to study.
Then you can have one on appro.
And of course, easy terms,
same as the other things.
Just a moment.
What other things
are you referring to, Mr. Parks?
You don't want to deprive yourself of an
organ just because you're short of cash.
You're paying off for the other things
so why not go in for an organ?
- What other things?
- You've got an account with us.
A couple of months back,
you bought 200 pounds worth
of new musical instruments on credit.
Come in.
You wanted to see me, headmaster?
I did indeed.
Good morning, Mr. Parks.
What?
- Don't stand there gawping man.
- But you're taking these, of course?
No, you're taking them.
I'm busy. Good morning.
Oh well!
No hard feelings, Mr. Frome, eh!
Oh.
Mmm... Interesting.
Organs... My card.
Oh, thank you.
Ah, thank you.
Perhaps you would wait outside,
Mr. Routledge.
I may need you in a few moments.
That the lot? Good.
Well, headmaster, I'm all yours.
Hey... Dingle's in with the head.
He'll be gone for ages.
Come on then.
Let's have a go. One, two...
♪ La, la, la la la... ♪
Alright,
I'll leave soon enough.
Mr. Dingle,
you will leave now.
No, you can't go in there.
Oh Mr. Routledge.
Why whatever's happened?
Dingle.
Mr. Routledge, please go
to the Upper Sixth and take over
until I can adopt other measures.
What has happened to Mr. Dingle?
Mr. Dingle has resigned,
as from this moment.
Hurry, Mr. Routledge.
Mr. Dingle will have
no further dealings with this school.
- Can I do anything?
- "Do anything"?
The man's a born teacher...
and an irresponsible obstinate lunatic!
There's nothing anyone can do.
Ch... cheese it everybody.
Here comes Dingle.
We're carrying on with chapter six, sir.
All right, Putnam.
Right.
Pay attention everybody.
What is the subject of the present lesson?
Putnam, you answer.
History, sir. We're doing
the Industrial Revolution.
Chapter six
in Brooks' Concise English History.
Thank you, Putnam.
Now carry on reading chapter six.
In 15 minutes time,
I shall ask you questions.
I'd expect the correct answers.
Riley, Browning, Wilson,
the books are on the desk, not out here.
Mr. Dingle, sir...
Is anything wrong?
Putnam, sit down at once.
Mr. Dingle, please.
The headmaster expressly
asked me to--
You must forgive me, Putnam.
I was so carried away with my own thoughts
I was forgetting to say goodbye.
Mr. Routledge is taking over
for the time being I believe.
I hope that you will take care of him
as well as you've taken care of me.
I'm... pressing on to pastures new.
Well...
That's all.
Good luck.
All right everyone... Chapter six.
Mr. Dingle has defied my instructions...
not once but many times.
But we've already explained, sir.
We were just as much to blame.
Mr. Dingle is... er... was a master.
It was his duty to maintain authority
not to aid and abet you
in your insubordination.
But sir, it isn't fair--
Paulette!
Mr. Frome has explained the circumstances.
You're breaking up for holidays
in a few days' time.
When you come back,
all this will be forgotten.
But what about the orchestra, Mrs. Castle?
Miss Merrow has some...
musical experience I believe.
She may be able to help you.
If we can't have Mr. Dingle, sir,
then we don't want the orchestra.
That will be all, Putnam.
Putnam!
Haven't you forgotten something?
Good evening, Mrs. Castle.
Good evening, Mrs. Castle.
I'm sorry, headmaster.
I didn't get near then, did I?
I think you did very well.
You explained everything.
They still don't understand.
I just didn't get near them.
What did he say?
He wouldn't budge.
No soap.
Dingle stays out.
All right... all right...
pipe down, you chumps...
We're not going
to let it rest here. Right?
- Right.
- Okay.
Meeting tonight at my place, everybody.
We'll show 'em. Agreed?
Agreed.
Nicky, couldn't we throw these
under old Frome's nose?
What's that, Crowther?
Tear gas.
Oh, chump!
It is really.
My father used it during the war.
He was in Civil Defence.
You mean it's a tear gas bomb?
Well sort of.
You throw it down,
it breaks,
the gas gets out and phew...
Put it away, you ass.
We're in enough trouble as it is.
Oh phooey!
What are we going to do, Nicky?
I don't know... yet.
But if Frome won't listen to reason,
then we'll have to think
of something else.
There's such a thing as justice you know.
Stop talking.
- All set?
- All set.
We will start assembly this morning...
with "Jerusalem The Golden."
♪ Jerusalem the golden ♪
♪ With milk and honey blest ♪
♪ Beneath thy... ♪
Thank you, Miss Merrow.
Perhaps you will start again, please.
And this time,
the whole school will join in singing.
♪ Jerusalem the golden ♪
♪ With milk and honey blest ♪
♪ Beneath thy... ♪
Unless you stop
this behaviour at once,
I may be forced to take other measures.
I suggest that you make up
your minds quickly.
Ready?
Okay.
We will try once more.
That's the lot, come on, quick!
I'll drop one of these gas bombs, shall I?
You twerp,
give it to me, you'll spoil everything!
I'm not going to have
any more of this.
Do you hear what I said?
Keep your places.
Silence... at once... silence!
Mr. Paterson... those boys on the roof,
I want their names at once.
All members of the staff
will go into the body of the hall
and stand by their forms.
We shall stay here all day if necessary.
I will not tolerate
any more disturbances
or any further show of disobedience!
The teachers will note the name
of any boy or girl who does not sing,
and report them to me.
Now... Miss Merrow.
We want Dingle.
Justice for Mr. Dingle.
I will give you all
one more chance.
We want Dingle.
We want Dingle.
One, two, three, four,
who are we for?
Dingle.
Silence.
D-I-N-G-L-E!
Dismiss... Dismiss.
All right, girls. That will do.
Paulette,
will you collect the impositions?
The rest of you pay attention.
Peggy? will you kindly rub this out?
And you might all note that the word
tyranny is spelled with two N's, not one.
This is Mr. Scott, children.
The schools inspector.
He has just come along to see
how well we are doing with our lessons.
Thank you, Miss Wyvern.
Just carry on as usual please.
Right, children.
Just a few simple,
general knowledge questions to begin with.
Answer up smartly now.
Ah... Lawson.
Will you tell us
when Magna Carta was signed, by whom
and what were its principle contents.
Magna Charta chicaroco choo chi twelve
fifteen. Babodidi lorum paddy waddy wah.
Ocho ocho itimon er King John.
Chicaroce chio chu the Barons.
More slowly, Lawson please.
Enunciate carefully.
Magna Charta chicaroco choo chi twelve
fifteen. Dabodidi lorum paddy waddy wah.
Ocho ocho itimon King John.
Chicaroce chio chu... the Barons.
That will do.
Putnam, give a brief
description of Manchester,
its climate, population
and chief industries.
Manchester did you say, sir?
I did. Carry on.
Manchester... let me see now.
Manchester... It's a city, sir.
You know very well it's a city.
Answer the question.
Um...
Manchester
is the capital city of Manchuria.
Stop! Stop at once.
Go to Mr. Frome
and tell him I sent you.
- Riley.
- Yes sir?
- Tell the class.
- Um... Tell them what, sir?
Tell the class...
Is Manchester anywhere near Manchuria?
Oh no, sir.
Good... where is it?
Um... Abyssinia, sir.
Riley!
Yes sir. I know sir.
Now... we'll have some order here.
Browning...
What is the principal
industry of Manchester?
What sir? Who sir, me sir?
Answer!
Answer what, sir?
What do they make in Manchester?
Bread pudding, sir.
Browning!
There's been a certain amount of unrest
in the school, but that'll pass.
Children are notoriously sentimental.
But you told me to light a match, sir.
Sorry Alex. Can't be did.
At the end of the week I move on.
But you'll get another job teaching, love.
Not in this town. Not in this country
if the head has any say in it.
I could squeeze another...
well... another pound a week.
You're a prince Alex.
No, I couldn't do it.
No... I'll do a spot of travelling...
eh, go abroad.
- You're going abroad?
- Mmm... To foreign parts, Rene.
I went abroad once.
Boulogne on a day trip. It was horrible.
I think I'll go further than that.
Japan. China.
I've always wanted
to study oriental music.
You'll never be happy without
your kids... your angels.
Mmm... My devils.
Yes. I'll...
I'll miss the little perishers,
but I doubt they'll miss me, though.
I doubt if in a couple of days,
they'll remember my name.
We want Dingle! We want Dingle!
How much longer do you intend
to keep this up, Putnam?
We want Dingle! We want Dingle!
Putnam!
Sir?
- I have been very patient.
- Too patient.
Please, Mr. Routledge.
I'm giving your last warning.
You will go down
and stop this noise.
You understand?
I don't want to hear
another word from any of you.
Yes sir.
You've had your fun.
Now back to work.
We'll all try to forget these... incidents.
If we could make you understand
about Mr. Dingle, sir.
That will do. Not another word.
Not another word from any of you.
Is that clear?
Yes sir... not another word.
We want Dingle! We want Dingle!
We want Dingle!
I'm afraid we're being too lax... too lax.
I am open to any useful suggestions,
Mr. Routledge.
A strong dose of discipline.
Any fool can govern
with a stick in his hand.
These children happen to be
standing up for something...
someone they believe in.
You mean you condone their conduct?
No, no. On the contrary.
But we can all afford to
reflect upon our own failure.
- Failure?
- Yes, failure, Mr. Routledge.
They are loyal to one man.
Have you or I... been able to inspire
the same devotion and loyalty?
They've stopped.
They've quietened down.
I think they've come
to their senses.
Browning!
Give the names of the principal leaders
of the French Revolution.
Browning... did you hear me?
Ah... I'll come back to you later.
Riley, give the answer!
Ah...
A conspiracy of silence eh?
Wilson...
Morris...
Mansard!
Crowther... Stand up.
Stand up I say!
The headmaster shall hear of this.
- They won't talk. They won't talk.
- Nor mine. Not a word.
They won't answer me...
they won't speak.
They've gone dumb!
Yes, yes. Of course.
Not unless it is absolutely necessary.
Thank you.
Mr. Frome, the whole school is silent.
They refuse to speak.
- Won't answer any questions.
- It's rebellion.
One girl did pass me a note...
They are obeying your orders, headmaster.
- My orders?
- That's what the note said.
You are supposed to have told
one of the senior boys
that you didn't want to hear a word
from any pupil at the school.
Please... I have been on the telephone
to the Director of Education.
As you know,
this term ends in three days' time.
I have permission to advance the date.
We will close this term now... at once.
Won't that look as though
we're giving in to them?
I don't think so. The school
will be on holiday for six weeks.
When we reassemble, this little incident
will have been forgotten.
I think that's a first-rate idea.
Three days extra holiday.
That'll scuttle 'em.
Perhaps you'd all go back to your forms
and make the announcement.
Very well, headmaster.
I don't like it, headmaster.
Smacks of surrender.
I don't like it either, Mr. Routledge,
but I think it may prove to be effective.
Eyes left!
Eyes front!
Headmaster...
Oh, headmaster... A terrible thing.
They've locked
themselves in the gymnasium.
- Gymnasium?
- Yes!
They say they won't... they won't budge
until Mr. Dingle comes back.
- We must show them once and for all.
- What do you suggest I do?
Call the police, the fire brigade,
and have them evicted?
No... No, we'll wait.
They are young, healthy animals.
In an hour's time,
they'll be wanting their tea.
In two hours, they'll be ravenous.
We'll wait.
Right. Lawson get up here.
Tell us the moment you see anyone.
Morris, Browning, Ginger... Check
the doors and see that they're locked.
Nicky, I'm hungry.
Paulette...
You're in charge of supplies.
No rations to be issued without authority.
Nicky, I'm starving!
You'll wait! We've got
to go easy on the grub.
We might be here for weeks yet.
Weeks? Crumbs!
I shall fall through my trousers
and hang myself on my braces.
Anyone come yet?
I wouldn't see them if they did.
I'm so hungry
I've got spots in front of my eyes.
Honest Nicky, I could eat a horse
and still find room for the saddle.
This is the limit... Come on!
You're not from this school, are you?
No sir.
Then you're trespassing...
Go on, march!
Look out... The head!
What are you doing here?
Ginger. Lock that door.
Paulette, dish out an orange,
a piece of cake and a couple of sweets.
Then check on what we have left.
Cave... here's old Frome!
Lawson isn't it?
Yes sir.
Will you kindly open this door, Lawson?
I can't sir.
Putnam.
All right Lawson.
You do realise
what you're doing, don't you?
Yes sir.
I have not come here to argue with you.
But at least think of your parents
and for their sakes,
put a stop to this farce.
I'm sorry sir.
We think Mr. Dingle has been
unfairly treated and we intend to--
I'll give you 30 minutes
in which to make up your mind.
If you haven't
come to your senses by then,
I shall send for the police
and force an entry.
What follows will be
on your own heads.
Nicky... what are we going to do?
Do?
It's no good banging our heads against
a brick wall. We've done all we could.
- Are you turning chicken?
- Of course not.
But we can't fight the police.
I reckon it's bluff...
I'm for holding out.
Now listen.
I know it's not easy.
But why did we start this business
in the first place?
Because old Dingle had a raw deal.
That hasn't altered.
Did he ever stop to think
of the consequences when he helped us?
Did he ever let us down?
And are we going to... crawl out now
on our hands and knees
and let them get away with it?
They think we're a bunch of kids
who don't know what we're doing...
Well I'm for calling their bluff.
We've got enough food here
to feed a regiment.
We can hold out until Kingdom come.
So who's with me, eh?
Who's for fighting?
Right. Up the Angels.
We'll show them we're not done yet.
Yes.
Oh Nicky, you were marvellous.
Oh, come off it Paulette.
I mean it.
As you were talking, I felt as though
I'd been struck by lightning.
He's gone!
That's odd.
He was here a moment or so ago.
Perhaps he's gone to the police already.
It's time they were called in.
We want Dingle... We want Dingle...
Ach! You've no milk.
I'll pop down and get you some.
I don't like milk.
But you must have milk!
I don't like milk. I hate milk.
Milk makes me vomit.
Will you get out of the room,
or shall I chase you out with this fork?
Go away. I don't want any milk.
Do you want me to--
Oh hello, headmaster.
Come in!
You're just in time
to split a crumpet with me.
Thank you.
♪ You are my first love ♪
♪ My first and last love ♪
♪ We'll make this love last for evermore ♪
♪ We'll prove a love as young ♪
♪ As spring keeps glowing ♪
♪ Even though the chill November winds ♪
♪ Keep blowing ♪
♪ We'll show that two hearts ♪
♪ Two young but true hearts ♪
♪ Can do what few hearts
Have done before ♪
♪ Till the sun grows cold ♪
♪ Till time stands still ♪
♪ We'll feel the magic thrill ♪
♪ Of our first love ♪
♪ You are my first love ♪
♪ My first and last love ♪
♪ We'll make this love ♪
♪ Last for evermore ♪
♪ We'll show that two hearts ♪
♪ Two young but true hearts ♪
♪ Can do what few hearts
Have done before ♪
♪ Till the sun grows cold ♪
♪ Till time stands still ♪
♪ We'll feel the magic thrill ♪
♪ Of our first love ♪
♪ You are my first love ♪
- I've been wasting my time.
- I wouldn't say that.
I've enjoyed our little chat.
Pity you can't stay longer.
I did hope to persuade you to use
your influence with those children.
It's just a lot of childish nonsense.
When you get back,
you'll find they've all gone home to tea.
I wish I could believe that.
I'm sorry, headmaster.
But I honestly don't see--
You're sorry... you don't see. Precisely.
This deplorable situation is
as much your responsibility as mine
but you're lucky.
You were born without a conscience.
You're one of those bright
irresponsible people
who create trouble
and then wash their hands of it.
Ho ho, I like that. I didn't walk out.
You fired me, remember?
I should have done it months ago.
But, well... I liked you.
I thought you were a good teacher.
Goodnight, Mr. Dingle.
- Hey wait a minute.
- Yes?
Are you trying to shift
the blame on me?
I'm trying to tell you
that you had a part in it.
You put your music and your orchestra
above everything else.
You not only encouraged defiance,
you aided and abetted it.
And yet you now try to pretend
that this...
this "nonsense" had nothing whatever
to do with you.
Of course I don't.
But you handled it all wrong.
You put everybody's backs up
right from the start.
I'm not a perfect headmaster, Mr. Dingle.
Please don't make
a catalogue of my mistakes,
I know them better than you.
What are you going to do?
- Why? Are you interested?
- Yes.
I shall call the police
and have them removed,
by force if necessary.
No doubt you will read
about it in the newspapers.
It isn't a story that will do
much credit to either of us.
After that I shall...
tender my resignation.
Why do you want to do that?
I don't want to do it, Mr. Dingle.
Strange as it may seem
I've always enjoyed my work.
I even thought I might make
a good job of running this school.
It seems I overestimated my capacity.
Good night.
Hey hold your horses.
Hey, hey wait a minute!
Does Nicky know that
you're going to marry him?
Sh!
There's no need to shout.
- I'm not going to marry him.
- You've just said--
Not yet.
I'm only trying to explain to you
so that you won't be hurt.
Oh I won't be hurt.
You say that but I know.
Really I do, Ginger.
But time alters everything.
You'll find a girl much prettier than me.
Hmm, shouldn't be difficult.
There's no need to take it that way.
You'll aways be my very best friend
and I shall always think of you
with the utmost affection.
Thank you...
Wish the police would come.
At least we'd know.
Cave!
Here's Frome... and hey...
Dingle's with him, Dingle!
Open up!
Come on, open up.
No... I... I'm sorry sir but we...
I want to talk to you.
Come on open up
and look smart about it.
All right sir.
Dingle wants to speak to us.
Come on, get this stuff cleared away.
Three cheers for Mr. Dingle.
- Hip hip!
- Hooray!
- Hip hip!
- Hooray!
- Hip hip!
- Hooray!
Right...
Now let's get this straight.
First of all, I'm not coming back here
to take up my old job.
You've made that impossible.
You've behaved like irresponsible idiots...
I'm ashamed of you.
You're old enough to know
your geometry, aren't you?
Since when has the part
been greater than the whole?
Since when has one man been
more important than the whole school?
We were... only
standing up for fair play, sir.
Well, it does credit to your hearts
but not your heads.
And if you're not coming back sir...
we'll carry on fighting.
We'll find other ways.
Yes, we will!
Sentimental rubbish.
Now let's look at the facts.
Number one, I was asked to resign
because I committed a breach of
school discipline, a serious breach.
Mr. Frome had no choice.
Why didn't you come to me
and ask me how I felt about it?
How did you know I wanted
to come back here and teach?
You do sir, don't you?
Well that brings me to fact number two.
I have already taken another job.
Aw...
You're kidding, sir?
Kidding?
You flatter yourselves, don't you?
What makes you think you're so special
that I should want
to come back here and teach?
There are plenty of other schools.
We've been wasting our time then.
Precisely what
I've been trying to tell you.
Wait a minute all of you.
Will you all please listen to me
for one moment.
- Headmaster, I think--
- You too, Mr. Dingle.
I ought to tell you that Mr. Dingle
has not taken another appointment.
I'm fairly sure of it.
- But I soon will.
- As I thought.
I don't want you to go away feeling
that Mr. Dingle... has let you down.
Perhaps it was my own fault
but I was never able to...
to win your confidence
and affection as he's done.
That is something that shouldn't
be destroyed lightly, Mr. Dingle.
- You're ruining everything.
- I wonder.
I think you've all behaved very badly...
for the best reasons,
I should like you to pay me
the compliment of recognising that
I have been guilty in the same way.
Now you can put your mistake
right by forgetting this incident.
You can also help me
to put my mistake right.
Will you persuade Mr. Dingle
to change his mind
and to come back to us?
Yes!
Three cheers for the headmaster!
- Hip hip!
- Hooray!
- Hip hip!
- Hooray!
- Hip hip!
- Hooray!
♪ My first and last love ♪
♪ We'll make this love last ♪
♪ For evermore ♪
♪ We'll prove a love
As young as Spring ♪
♪ Keeps glowing ♪
♪ Even though the chill November wind ♪
♪ Keeps blowing ♪
♪ We'll show that two hearts ♪
♪ Two young but true hearts ♪
♪ Can do what few hearts ♪
♪ Have done before ♪
♪ Till the sun grows cold ♪
♪ Till time stands still ♪
♪ We'll feel the magic thrill ♪
♪ Of our first love ♪
♪ We'll always be comrades ♪
♪ Still bound by our song ♪
♪ So sing up you Angels ♪
♪ And let your voices ring ♪
♪ Our hearts will be light ♪
♪ If this song we always sing ♪
♪ The years lie before us ♪
♪ So let us sing in chorus ♪
♪ And always we'll remember ♪
♪ The Angel Hill Song ♪
Silence!
Fellow teachers, scholars
of the Angel Hill Grammar School...
He's off.
Today we reassemble
once again for yet another term.
Once more our little ship sets sail
upon the sea of knowledge
for yet one more voyage of discovery--
Yet today is an auspicious one
for there is a new hand at the helm,
a new face upon the bridge.
In short,
we embark today under a new captain.
He's making me seasick.
So without more ado,
I welcome you all back to school
and ask you to join with me in bidding
welcome to our new headmaster... Mr. Frome.
I take it we may now proceed without
further accompaniment from the orchestra.
Good. Now to business.
First, I thank you all for your welcome.
Second, I don't like making speeches
and I'm equally sure that
you don't like listening to them.
Third, I ask you all
to remember one thing.
We are here to work,
all of us.
If you work well...
we shall get on together.
You may now dismiss to your classrooms.
Dismiss. No talking!
- What do you think, Ginger?
- Hmm.
I don't know. At least he doesn't go on
spouting for hours which is something.
We ought to give him a fair trial.
- Go on, get off me!
- Pack it up you twerps, pack it up.
I think the new head
has a sad face really.
I bet you anything
he's had a big tragedy in his life.
Paulette, why you have to think everyone
has a split personality? I don't know.
- The head looks perfectly normal to me.
- "Normal"?
He's a headmaster, isn't he?
I've never met a normal one yet.
The principal powers concerned
in the Congress of Vienna were England,
Russia... Austria and France...
France?
- Yes, sir. I think so.
- Well, think again Morris, think again.
- What's this?
- Brandy balls, sir.
"Brandy balls"? Brandy balls!
It is more blessed to give
than to receive, my angel.
Morris, have you thought?
- Well--
- What is it?
Was Beethoven alive at this time, sir?
"Was Beethoven alive"?
My dear child he was more alive than
the rest of Europe put together. Riley!
- Sir?
- What do you remember of Wellington?
Umm... boots, sir.
Exactly, Wellington Boots.
What do you remember of Beethoven,
eh? Come on, Beethoven!
Er...
That's enough!
I may look like an idiot, Paulette,
but let me assure you
I've got my wits about me.
- Yes, sir. Of course sir.
- "Yes sir. Of course sir."
You think that you've only
to mention music to me
and I'll forget
all about history, don't you?
Oi!
You, what's that?
Knitting, sir.
I know it's knitting, dear,
I can see it's knitting.
It couldn't possibly be anything else.
What kind of knitting?
Well sir, it's for a baby.
A baby.
Yes sir. My sister's.
It's a very sweet thought, Peggy.
A sweet and sisterly thought.
Next time, why not bring the baby as well?
After all,
this is only a history lesson, isn't it?
History really doesn't matter, does it?
- No sir.
- No.
- I mean... yes, sir.
- Beg pardon sir.
That talk on the instruments
of the orchestra has started.
You asked me to remind you, sir.
You too, Putnam?
We'll stick to the Congress of Vienna...
if you don't mind.
Yes sir...
Quiet! Quiet!
Everyone stand still.
While you are in the school buildings,
you will do your utmost to disguise
the fact that you are hooligans.
Go back to your classrooms
and come out again
with some semblance
of order and decency.
Sorry, headmaster. Tea...
If you don't get there quickly,
the blighters pinch the lot!
For Heaven's sake,
give me a cup of tea.
There's just enough
if we squeeze the pot.
- I've just had the shock of my life.
- What's the matter, Harry?
The new head's been going
through the timetables.
He's cut my first 11 practice right out.
Right out! Can you imagine?
About time too. This is a school,
not a blessed football team.
I still can't believe it.
Do you know the fellow's got no idea
of sport at all. No idea at all.
- That makes two of us.
- It does seem rather cruel.
Don't suppose he's ever
kicked a foot ball in his life,
wouldn't know one if he saw it.
Do come in, headmaster.
I think we can manage a cup of tea.
No, I won't, thank you.
Oh, Mr. Dingle.
You wanted me, headmaster?
Yes. I wondered if we could have
a session together after lunch.
After lunch...
Wait a minute now... er...
Yes, that'll be all right. I've got
a rehearsal of the orchestra then.
Good chance for
you to hear what they can do.
Thank you. I'm sorry
I interrupted your break.
Oh by the way, Paterson,
I believe I have seen a foot ball.
As I remember it,
it's a spherical leather case
containing a rubber inner tube
which is inflated by air
and then sealed.
Quite an ingenious device.
The man's got a sense of humour.
I'm going to like him!
The academic subjects are the ones
to be emphasized I think, don't you?
Well I think there's too much emphasis
on dates and facts and figures.
That's what's wrong
with modern schooling.
Indeed.
What does it really do to a kid to teach
him about, say, the Congress of Vienna?
It might give him a sense of
the movement of history, don't you think?
Movement be blowed.
You know better than that.
But give 'em music,
teach 'em to appreciate sound...
There's more real education in that
than a dozen blooming Congresses.
- Where's your hat, boy?
- In... in me pocket, sir.
In my pocket, in my pocket... not me.
Yes sir, in your pocket,
I mean, in--
- Wear it boy, wear it.
- Yes sir.
You know the school rules?
Yes sir.
Well now, take Beethoven for instance.
Mr. Dingle, if we could leave
your private theories on education aside
for a moment...
tell me about the School Orchestra.
Well... er... I think
you're going to be impressed.
I think we've got the makings
of a fine little orchestra.
Mind you, we're short
on wood and brass... very short.
Quite.
If I could get a horn,
two trombones and a clarinet.
Yes, yes. You concentrate
on serious music, on the classics?
Oh yes, exclusively, exclusively.
Mind you, I like
a spot of jazz myself, don't you?
Personally I find it detestable....
In my view, it ruins character.
Up, up!
Up!
Mr. Dingle.
We can discuss this
more easily tomorrow morning.
Excuse me, sir...
I... I'm sorry sir. Don't go.
We were... just relaxing.
If you'd give us a chance to play.
- You're a prefect aren't you?
- Yes sir.
Your name?
Putnam, sir.
I expect my prefects to keep control
in the absence of masters.
I shall have something
to say to you later... Putnam.
Miserable old twerp.
That will cost you 200 lines, Riley.
Worth it.
Then we'll make it 400.
And I wanted you to make
a good impression...
And how many times
do I have to tell you Putnam,
you must stroke the notes out,
not force them.
You're playing a trumpet
not blowing up paper bags.
Excuse me, headmaster.
I wanted to ask you whether someone
could take my maths period this afternoon...
I have to go to the--
Well done Putnam, jolly good.
Ah there we are Riley.
Sit down.
Four hundred lines, wasn't it?
Let's see if we can think
of something interesting.
"I must learn to keep my mouth shut
then I shan't put my foot in it."
Let's hope the thought
does you some good.
Three hundred lines you said, sir?
Riley, Riley, Riley. Will you never learn?
The actual figure was 500... goodnight.
Goodnight, sir.
Oh, clear off, you blokes.
I've got to do 500 before I can go.
That's what we're here for.
Five hundred...
There's ten of us, that's 50 a piece.
Come on get cracking.
But old Dingle'll know
it's not my writing.
He only ever looks at the first page.
We'll shove yours on top.
I believe that
strong measures are necessary
and I ask your full cooperation.
Discipline must be tightened
and there must be
a much greater emphasis
on the primary purpose
of the school... study.
Netball,
cricket, football
may be excellent pursuits,
but they are secondary.
The result of our last terms
examinations was a disgrace.
Until we do better,
our other activities must be curtailed.
Mr. Dingle.
Yes?
It had crossed my mind that
we should disband the School Orchestra.
Disband it?
It crossed my mind I said.
But perhaps that would be a bit too hasty.
We will therefore
merely limit its activities a little.
In future,
all rehearsals will be held
outside of school hours
and even those must not be allowed
to interfere with homework.
Are you all right Mr. Dingle?
We don't want to lose you just yet.
I thank you ladies and gentlemen
for giving me your time and attention.
The other measures I have in mind
can be taken up later... good night.
Just a minute, headmaster.
I'd like to speak to you
about the new instruments.
- Instruments?
- Yes.
At the last staff meeting,
it was more or less agreed
that the school should buy
some more instruments for the orchestra.
- I want a tuba, two trombones--
- So I believe.
I'm sorry Mr. Dingle,
it's out of the question.
- Mr. Frome!
- Yes?
You don't mean what you said about not
buying the new instruments and rehearsals?
I seldom if ever say
what I don't mean, Mr. Dingle.
But I've entered our orchestra
for the National Festival
of School Orchestras.
Very commendable.
I hope they do well.
But you don't understand.
We haven't got a chance--
I've no time to argue Mr. Dingle.
And now if you would concentrate
some of your undoubted energy
on the rather duller academic subjects,
we should all be
most grateful to you. Goodnight.
Go on Nicky. They're your favourites.
I brought them specially.
Thanks awfully, Paulette,
but I don't feel like eating.
I know.
You ask me,
Frome's an absolute Philistine.
He wants his brains dusted.
I spoke to my father too.
He's sure he could get
the instruments cheap.
What's the use of discussing it?
The Head's attitude is just
too juvenile to be true.
If it ain't the Upper Sixth
sitting on their rear ends as usual.
Oh, scram microbe or I'll crown you.
And I suppose you big fellows
will let him get away with it.
Hop it young 'un, hop it.
- Nicky you don't suppose...
- Sh...
Leave him be.
The great man's thinking.
Again we find Blake
in his more questioning mood
when he wrote...
Tyger Tyger, burning bright
In the forests of the night...
You continue, Paulette.
What immortal hand or eye
Could frame thy fearful symmetry?
Browning.
What the hammer?
What the chain? In what--
- Are you with us, Putnam?
- Yes, sir.
What subjects are we discussing?
Drake, sir.
Tell him, Marion.
William Blake, sir.
Precisely.
No relation to the Admiral,
my angel, none whatsoever!
Now we all have the question
of the orchestra on our minds, Putnam.
But we mustn't let it get us down,
must we?
No sir. I was only wondering, sir.
Would Mr. Frome object
if we... found a way to raise the money
and bought the instruments ourselves?
I have no way of reading
the headmaster's mind, Putnam.
But I suppose if the money didn't
come out of the school funds...
Any ideas?
- Not really, sir.
- Then what are we wasting time for?
Continue with the poem, Browning.
What the hammer?
What the chain?
No, no, no, dear boy.
We're reciting poetry
not making puff pastry.
Like this.
What the hammer? What the chain?
In what furnace was thy brain?
What the anvil?
What dread grasp?
Dare its deadly terrors clasp?
When the stars threw down their spears
And watered heaven with their tears
Did he smile his work to see?
Did he who made the lamb make thee?
Tyger, Tyger burning bright
In the forests of the night...
If we all work together
we will be able to make it.
So that's my idea...
We can either lie down
and let them walk on us
or we can fight back
and I'm for fighting back.
So I say let's have a go!
Well I think
it's a smashing idea, Nicky,
but I couldn't take part.
My mum would be furious.
That's your own fault. You should've
brought your parents up better.
I vote for it.
Well I vote, we take a vote.
Hey wait a minute,
what about old Dingle?
When we've made up
our own minds, we'll talk to him.
Right. Those in favour of Nicky's scheme
raise your right hand.
Okay, fine.
I say Nicky, can I come too?
You... you'll be where all good little boys
should be... in bed.
Go on, scram, vamoose!
- Nicky.
- What?
I could tell the head.
But I won't.
Yeah.
But it's in our own time, sir.
We can do what we like in our own time.
No.
But if we could raise the money, it would
show the head just how keen we are.
No.
I'm sorry you won't come in with us,
but it's been agreed by a majority vote.
We shall go ahead, sir.
And if you should change your mind,
we're meeting outside the Corn Exchange
at seven o'clock tonight.
Oi, oi... What are you trying to do?
Take the bread out of me mouth?
Now look son, go on, 'op it.
Hop it before I skin you alive...
and that goes for you too.
Go on, the lot of you, 'op it.
Ladies and gentlemen,
the first trick I am about to show you
has never yet been performed in public.
Now it took me years
to perform this trick
and you're very lucky people...
They don't seem
to appreciate this stuff, do they?
No.
We'll have to er...
broaden our appeal a bit, I think.
- Hot it up, you mean, sir?
- Well in for a penny, in for a pound.
Okay sir. And I'll rope in
some of the younger kids,
that'll soften them up a bit.
Good-oh. I'll get to work
on some of the girls. We'll show 'em.
Come on.
♪ Rhythm is our business
Rhythm is what we sell ♪
♪ Rhythm is our business
Business sure is swell ♪
♪ If you're feeling blue
Rhythm's what you need ♪
♪ If you've got rhythm
You're sure to succeed ♪
♪ Rhythm is our business
Rhythm is what we sell ♪
♪ He plays saxophone in the band ♪
♪ He plays saxophone in the band ♪
♪ When he runs up and down the scale
You'll get hot without fail ♪
♪ Rhythm is our business
Rhythm is what we sell ♪
♪ He's a drummer man in the band ♪
♪ He's a drummer man in the band ♪
♪ When he does tricks with his sticks ♪
♪ The boys in the band all play
Hot licks ♪
♪ Rhythm is his business
That's what he sells ♪
♪ Rhythm is what we sell ♪
♪ Feeling blue is what you need ♪
♪ If you've got rhythm
You're sure to succeed ♪
♪ Rhythm is our business
Rhythm is what we sell ♪
♪ Rhythm is what we sell
Rhythm ♪
Three pounds, four shillings
and twopence farthing, sir.
Cor not bad for one night.
Jolly good.
We need about 200 pounds in all.
At this rate, we'll be old and grey
before we get it.
I don't know. Lemme see,
three pounds a night, seven nights a week...
in about ten weeks or so we'd be--
We'd be dead.
Sir, my father's
in the music business.
- Could I talk to him?
- How would that help us?
Oh my dad's a fair wonder.
He can fiddle any...
I mean he's got tons of ideas.
Well there's no harm
in asking his advice.
Right.
Hey what're you doing with that.
I'm the treasurer.
Don't worry, it's safe.
All good things must come to an end...
School tomorrow...
Go on, buzz off
and let me drink my coffee in peace.
- Goodnight, sir.
- Goodnight.
Thanks for coming sir.
You're a sport.
I'm an idiot, but we'll let that pass.
Mr. Dingle, sir.
I thought I told you
to go home to bed.
I had to wait
until the others went home, sir.
I've just got to speak
to you, you see. I must...
Won't it do as well tomorrow?
No, I must speak to you alone.
It's private you see... personal,
and very urgent.
You'd better sit down
and tell me about it.
What is it, Paulette?
What's on your mind?
Oh, it isn't me, sir.
It's a friend of mine.
You see this friend is involved
in a terribly tragic situation.
Absolutely awful.
You see, there are two boys...
I mean men.
And they're both terribly attractive
and this friend likes them both.
And she doesn't know
which one to choose.
It's a triangle, you see?
An eternal triangle.
Yes, it's... er... tricky.
Oh, terribly tricky.
Hmm...
Er... has your... friend
spoken to her mother about this?
Oh it's no good doing that.
She'd only laugh and tell me--
tell her not to be silly.
She's all right but she just
wouldn't understand as you do.
Well it's...
it's hardly my territory, you know?
But she's got to decide.
She's just got to decide.
Er... these two young men,
are you quite sure they both feel
the same way about your friend?
Oh yes,
but they haven't exactly said, of course.
But she knows.
A woman can always tell.
Yes.
How old is your friend?
About your age?
Yes. Yes... She's not a child.
Well it's tough,
this relationship between men and women
is... is never easy, you know.
Oh it's terribly complex.
I... I had a friend once
who took up gardening.
He was worried about some seeds
he'd planted. You know what he did?
Dug them all up
to see why they wouldn't grow.
Well naturally he killed the lot.
Oh that was stupid.
Yes, of course. He realises now that
you shouldn't try to, er, rush nature.
Get it?
Well it's the same with your friend,
she... she should wait,
carry on just as she is.
What? With two men?
Well... er... well... er... not quite, no.
I mean she shouldn't try to hurry things.
She won't have to wait long.
One afternoon, one evening,
she'll be with these two fellows
and suddenly, without any warning...
the lightning will strike.
She'll know beyond any shadow of doubt
which one she wants.
Now you...
You just tell her
to wait for the lightning.
Yes I will... the lightning.
Come on young woman, home.
I'll have your father chasing me.
- I'll see you to the corner.
- Thank you.
The new instruments, they're here.
- You're kidding!
- Hurry up, you twerps.
I'll tell him to drive on the back
of the gym. You get Dingle there somehow.
- Right!
- There's no time to lose.
- But how the Dickens--
- I'll explain later.
Good thing the head isn't here today.
Round the back driver.
Music should be a compulsory subject
in all schools.
- Come now...
- Don't come now me, Routledge.
If you'd been taught to appreciate music
you wouldn't have
such an infernal grudge against life.
Me, a grudge? Oh really.
I did start to learn the piano accordion.
"Piano acc--" I'm talking of music, Wyvie,
not the grumblings and rumblings
of a tortured tummy.
Don't stand there hissing, boy.
Don't you ever knock?
- Answer. Answer.
- I came for Mr. Dingle, sir.
It's urgent sir... about the orchestra.
All right, Putnam.
Orchestra!
Do you know what's wrong with the world,
my dear dim-witted colleague?
No harmony, proportion, rhythm.
We spend too much time
stuffing this... or this,
when it's this we should be
worrying about. The heart, the soul...
More music, my friend, music!
Have a biscuit.
Ugh.
Who brought these?
My father's firm, sir.
They're new instruments.
I've got eyes, Morris.
Come on, speak up.
Uh... Well sir, you see sir...
it's like this...
I... I explained it all to my father
and he said he'd like to help us.
That's very noble of him.
He said we can have this stuff
on the glad and sorry... special terms.
Glad and sorry?
Never, never... Instalment plan.
So much down and the rest every month.
It's very interesting.
I gave him the cash we collected
as a deposit.
He said he'd make it easy for you.
You just have to sign these papers.
What a cheek!
The whole thing
is absolutely preposterous!
It would take years... to... er...
It'd... It'd take years to er...
Well I suppose there's... no harm
in trying them now they're here, is there?
- You try it, sir.
- Go on sir.
Perhaps that one's too hard for you, sir.
Why don't you try something easier?
My angels, for the first time, you're
really beginning to sound like something.
We're going to keep them, sir?
Naturally. Morris' father has gone
to a great deal of trouble.
We can't let him down, can we?
Morris, give me those papers.
- Excuse me, sir. Am I in, sir?
- In?
From now on Lawson, you are
an indispensable part of the orchestra.
Where on earth did you learn
to play like that, eh?
My father, sir.
He's in the London Philharmonic sir.
The London Philharmonic?
Ladies and gentlemen,
incline your heads. Show proper respect.
The son of a real musician is amongst us.
Good!
Don't stand there grinning like
Cheshire cats... put those things away.
Class in two minutes.
Will it be all right with the headmaster,
sir? About the instruments.
Well, I don't think that Mr. Frome
has quite the same approach to music
as we have, Putnam.
But... I think things will work out.
Yes, I don't think
we need worry on that score.
Riley, step out to the board
if you don't feel too tired
and write down the names
and dates of all the major battles
in the Peninsular War.
Sir... sir... the instruments, sir.
Mr. Routledge, sir.
He's locked them all up!
Big padlock, sir.
He says it's the headmaster's orders, sir.
Putnam, take charge and carry on.
Locking them up, are they?
- Headmaster.
- Do come in, I was expecting you.
Did you give orders
for the instruments to be locked away?
- I did.
- May I ask why?
- Sit down, Mr. Dingle.
- I didn't come here to sit down, sir.
- I came to demand--
- "Demand"?
Sit down, please.
This is the reason.
Well.
The Director of Education
has already been on to me.
You have made a laughing
stock of the school.
Absolute nonsense!
Nonsense or not, Mr. Dingle,
those instruments will remain locked up.
They will not be used again
without my permission.
But you can't do that!
They don't even belong to...
- You were about to say?
- That doesn't matter...
But what does matter is rehearsal.
Unless we can rehearse,
we won't qualify for the festival.
And unless our pupils concentrate on their
studies, they won't qualify for anything.
Scraping a violin won't win scholarships.
Is that your last word?
It is.
Supposing I said I couldn't
carry on teaching under such conditions...
You would be a great loss to the school.
- Oh, well in that case I'll...
- Yes?
- I'll... er...
- Well?
Carry on teaching.
Oh, stop it, Lawson.
It sets my teeth on edge.
Dry up young 'un.
We're in no mood for music.
He's too young to understand.
And you're supposed to be sixth formers.
I give up.
In the Lower Fourth,
we don't give in so easily.
Oh pipe down.
Oh!
Riley!
Come on boy, don't lounge there!
Oh, Lord!
Oh...
Look at him.
Few weeks ago, he was normal.
Oh I don't know...
This business of the relationship
between men and women is pretty complex.
Complex, my foot...
That stuff's for cissies.
Holding hands...
Have you ever thought of a girl...
well, in that way?
Never.
Well, take me for instance...
What do you think of me, Nicky?
You? You're a good sport.
Oh, that's all?
Oh, dry up old girl.
You're beginning to talk like a woman.
I am a woman.
Well, that ain't to boast about.
You know Paulette, I've been thinking.
Young Lawson was right.
Why should we let Old Frome
get away with it?
There must be something we can do.
Catch.
Give me a cheque for the first down
payment and I'll make it easy for you.
The first down payment?
I thought that had been paid.
Good gracious me, no!
Twenty pounds is the first down payment.
I've only had four and that leaves
a balance of 16 pounds to pay.
See, it's in the agreement.
Yes... That's a bit of a shock!
Still that... can't be helped, I suppose.
Yes... I...
I'd better let you have
my personal cheque for the balance.
- All right?
- Naturally.
And you'll see that the rest of
the money must be paid over 12 months...
eighteen pounds a month.
- It's... four pounds ten a week, isn't it?
- Uh huh.
That's a bit of a tight squeeze.
Not to worry,
that's the thing, Mr. Dingle.
If you get a bit behind,
well, I know I can trust you.
My son told me you're a gentleman.
With due respect, Mr. Morris,
your son is no judge of that.
- Thank you.
- Thank you.
I'm up to my neck.
I can't get hold of the instruments
without spilling the beans to the head.
- So I've got to pay for them.
- Oh you are in a mess, dear.
I just have to cut down
on my beer, that's all.
Oh you can't do that,
you've got to have your vitamins.
Two browns.
Why don't you get a part-time job
teaching music?
I have enough teaching all day, really.
- No, no, no, no. You've got it wrong.
- Eh?
You've got it wrong.
It goes like this... see?
See?
- Come on, you have a bash, guv'nor.
- What?
Yes, come on.
Come on, let's see
the whites of your eyes.
We've got to do something.
Somehow or other we've got
to get hold of those instruments
so that we can rehearse.
- Right?
- Right.
I vote that you and Crowther and Ginger
form a committee to work it out.
Otherwise we'll go on nagging all night.
- Okay, agreed?
- Agreed.
Browning... Peggy... You with us?
- Oh yes, yes!
- Good.
And we all agree
to stick together come what may.
- Whatever happens we'll fight!
- To the death.
Discussion is only useful in so far
as it contributes directly or indirectly--
Scrag him!
Last orders, please!
♪ My old man said follow the band ♪
♪ Don't dilly-dally on the way ♪
♪ Off went the van
With the home packed in it ♪
♪ And I walked behind
With my old cock linnet ♪
♪ I dillied and dallied
Dallied and dillied ♪
♪ Lost my way
And don't know where to roam ♪
♪ You can't trust the specials
Like the old time coppers ♪
♪ When I can't find my way home ♪
♪ I've got sixpence
Jolly jolly sixpence ♪
♪ I've got sixpence
To last me all my life ♪
♪ I've got twopence to lend ♪
♪ And twopence to spend ♪
♪ And twopence to send home to my wife ♪
♪ No cares have I to grieve me ♪
♪ No silly little girl to deceive me ♪
♪ I'm as happy as a king believe me ♪
♪ As I go rolling home ♪
♪ Rolling home, rolling home
Rolling home, rolling home ♪
♪ By the light of the silvery moon ♪
♪ I'm as happy as a king believe me ♪
♪ As I go rolling home ♪
Time gentlemen please.
Come on now,
we're five minutes overtime as it is.
I don't want to lose me licence, you know.
Come on Jack, drink up.
- Where'd you dig him up from Alex?
- Ah!
- He's a very fine pianist that bloke.
- Ah yes!
Good night.
Bye bye.
- Goodnight old boy.
- Goodnight.
Well, I enjoyed that.
That was a smashing show
you put up tonight.
Well, it's not my usual line,
but it didn't go down too badly, did it?
How would you like to do it regular?
- What?
- I'd pay you.
Four quid and free beer.
Four nights a week.
Where's your manners?
He's a school teacher. You'll offend him.
Oh no, not a bit.
I'm... I'm flattered.
I told you to take
a spare time job, didn't I?
- Four pounds a week?
- Yeah.
And free beer.
Alex my friend, it's a deal.
Four pounds a week and free beer.
With those words,
you have written a symphony
which would make even Beethoven bow down
before you bareheaded and boggle.
Goodnight.
And you see, sir, since the instruments
really belong to the orchestra,
there could be no harm
in our taking them could there, sir?
And how do you propose... taking them?
You've seen those padlocks?
- Yes.
- We've worked all that out, sir.
Crowther thinks he could blow
the doors off the cupboards, sir.
Very subtle.
If you want the whole world to know
what you're up to that is the best scheme.
What do you suggest, sir?
Suggest?
You're asking me to suggest ways and means
of breaking into the school property?
It's preposterous!
Blowing doors off cupboards...
I suppose the next thing you'll want
is to take an impression of the locks
and make new keys.
Make the keys!
Then we could put the stuff back
after we've used it
and no one any the wiser!
Precisely.
As you say Putnam,
a fantastic suggestion.
I want to hear no more about it.
Keys!
How's it going?
Finished!
Oh, good, come on!
- You got it?
- Of course.
Right. Lawson, Morris... Take one end
of the gym each and keep cave.
If anyone comes give us
an owl's call. Like this.
l can't do an owl.
But I can do a yellow billed willow
warbler, or a white tailed sea eagle.
Do a cuckoo, twerp.
You others, follow me.
Peggy, stay here with the cart.
- Right.
- I'd better stay here too.
All right.
Right, come on.
- I got them open!
- Sh... Shut up, you idiot!
Cuckoo.
- Cave.
- Get down!
Cuckoo.
Cuckoo.
- By the way, I meant to tell you--
- Wait!
- Cuckoo.
- There it goes. again.
- A cuckoo!
- A cuckoo at this time of the year?
It is extraordinary.
I really must write
to The Times about it.
Yes I should. It's most unusual.
Quick,
give me a hand with the cart.
Here he is, quick, tell them!
Hello, Paulette.
- What's all the hoo-ha about?
- We've got a surprise for you, sir.
Inside.
Mmm...
Quite a party!
Rehearsing, Putnam?
- Yes sir.
- Hmm...
Carry on, please.
No, no, no, no, no, no!
Terrible, terrible! If you're going
to rehearse, do it properly!
Fiddles, that first beat is a down beat.
I want a down bow,
not an up bow, a down bow.
Right, come on now, pay attention!
Try not to make it sound like a pack of
hounds being run over by a steam roller.
Right, that's enough.
Here we go.
No, no, no, no, no, no, no, no, no.
Hands up anybody
who can't read music.
Nobody?
Alright then, read it!
Look at those first few bars.
Look at them, don't look at me.
Look at the bars... look at them!
♪ Ta tum tum ta, ta ta ta, ta tum ♪
Pomposo, pomposo!
You know what that means, Putnam?
- Yes sir.
- Alright, pomposo it up a bit then!
Come on! Right.
Come on, here goes.
A very good finish,
ladies and gentlemen.
Bassoon, you were in too early again.
There were far too many
back stage noises from the kitchen,
but you're beginning to show real
improvement after eight weeks' hard work.
Jolly good!
All right. Break now.
Do you really think
we're coming on, sir?
You'll pass with a good push.
But don't let it go to your head now.
- Heavens! I'm late.
- Late?
Yes, work...
More music, different kind... bye.
Goodbye, sir.
Compliments of the boss.
Evening Madge, evening, sir.
What's the poison?
- Gin and tonic, please Rene.
- Scotch please.
What did I tell you?
Isn't he absolutely smashing?
Yes, sounds like it.
Made the world of difference
to this pub.
And a tonic.
You must come
and look at his hands... they're fantastic.
That's a right... Thank you.
Yes, he absolutely sends me too.
He plays here every night?
Practically. Three other pubs
have been after him.
- Drink up.
- What's that?
Drink up. We're going.
Oh don't be so absurd.
We've only just got here.
Never mind. I'm going.
Are you coming?
Oh all right.
You're worse than a flea at a picnic.
You can't keep in one place
for five minutes.
Bravo!
There may be some reasonable explanation.
Explanation?
Thumping a piano in a public house?
I'm not in the habit of judging a man
or his motives until I know the facts.
I shall speak to Mr. Dingle.
I expect this is him now.
Come in.
- Mr. Frome.
- My name is Frome.
Ah yes... my card.
Mellotone Musical Instrument Company.
Very pleased to meet you Mr. Frome.
Now I've got something here
that will interest you... an organ.
A modern super deluxe electric organ.
Do you know how many stops and pedals?
Over 150.
But... I'm not going to try
and sell you now, Mr. Frome.
I'm just going to leave you
these few things to study.
Then you can have one on appro.
And of course, easy terms,
same as the other things.
Just a moment.
What other things
are you referring to, Mr. Parks?
You don't want to deprive yourself of an
organ just because you're short of cash.
You're paying off for the other things
so why not go in for an organ?
- What other things?
- You've got an account with us.
A couple of months back,
you bought 200 pounds worth
of new musical instruments on credit.
Come in.
You wanted to see me, headmaster?
I did indeed.
Good morning, Mr. Parks.
What?
- Don't stand there gawping man.
- But you're taking these, of course?
No, you're taking them.
I'm busy. Good morning.
Oh well!
No hard feelings, Mr. Frome, eh!
Oh.
Mmm... Interesting.
Organs... My card.
Oh, thank you.
Ah, thank you.
Perhaps you would wait outside,
Mr. Routledge.
I may need you in a few moments.
That the lot? Good.
Well, headmaster, I'm all yours.
Hey... Dingle's in with the head.
He'll be gone for ages.
Come on then.
Let's have a go. One, two...
♪ La, la, la la la... ♪
Alright,
I'll leave soon enough.
Mr. Dingle,
you will leave now.
No, you can't go in there.
Oh Mr. Routledge.
Why whatever's happened?
Dingle.
Mr. Routledge, please go
to the Upper Sixth and take over
until I can adopt other measures.
What has happened to Mr. Dingle?
Mr. Dingle has resigned,
as from this moment.
Hurry, Mr. Routledge.
Mr. Dingle will have
no further dealings with this school.
- Can I do anything?
- "Do anything"?
The man's a born teacher...
and an irresponsible obstinate lunatic!
There's nothing anyone can do.
Ch... cheese it everybody.
Here comes Dingle.
We're carrying on with chapter six, sir.
All right, Putnam.
Right.
Pay attention everybody.
What is the subject of the present lesson?
Putnam, you answer.
History, sir. We're doing
the Industrial Revolution.
Chapter six
in Brooks' Concise English History.
Thank you, Putnam.
Now carry on reading chapter six.
In 15 minutes time,
I shall ask you questions.
I'd expect the correct answers.
Riley, Browning, Wilson,
the books are on the desk, not out here.
Mr. Dingle, sir...
Is anything wrong?
Putnam, sit down at once.
Mr. Dingle, please.
The headmaster expressly
asked me to--
You must forgive me, Putnam.
I was so carried away with my own thoughts
I was forgetting to say goodbye.
Mr. Routledge is taking over
for the time being I believe.
I hope that you will take care of him
as well as you've taken care of me.
I'm... pressing on to pastures new.
Well...
That's all.
Good luck.
All right everyone... Chapter six.
Mr. Dingle has defied my instructions...
not once but many times.
But we've already explained, sir.
We were just as much to blame.
Mr. Dingle is... er... was a master.
It was his duty to maintain authority
not to aid and abet you
in your insubordination.
But sir, it isn't fair--
Paulette!
Mr. Frome has explained the circumstances.
You're breaking up for holidays
in a few days' time.
When you come back,
all this will be forgotten.
But what about the orchestra, Mrs. Castle?
Miss Merrow has some...
musical experience I believe.
She may be able to help you.
If we can't have Mr. Dingle, sir,
then we don't want the orchestra.
That will be all, Putnam.
Putnam!
Haven't you forgotten something?
Good evening, Mrs. Castle.
Good evening, Mrs. Castle.
I'm sorry, headmaster.
I didn't get near then, did I?
I think you did very well.
You explained everything.
They still don't understand.
I just didn't get near them.
What did he say?
He wouldn't budge.
No soap.
Dingle stays out.
All right... all right...
pipe down, you chumps...
We're not going
to let it rest here. Right?
- Right.
- Okay.
Meeting tonight at my place, everybody.
We'll show 'em. Agreed?
Agreed.
Nicky, couldn't we throw these
under old Frome's nose?
What's that, Crowther?
Tear gas.
Oh, chump!
It is really.
My father used it during the war.
He was in Civil Defence.
You mean it's a tear gas bomb?
Well sort of.
You throw it down,
it breaks,
the gas gets out and phew...
Put it away, you ass.
We're in enough trouble as it is.
Oh phooey!
What are we going to do, Nicky?
I don't know... yet.
But if Frome won't listen to reason,
then we'll have to think
of something else.
There's such a thing as justice you know.
Stop talking.
- All set?
- All set.
We will start assembly this morning...
with "Jerusalem The Golden."
♪ Jerusalem the golden ♪
♪ With milk and honey blest ♪
♪ Beneath thy... ♪
Thank you, Miss Merrow.
Perhaps you will start again, please.
And this time,
the whole school will join in singing.
♪ Jerusalem the golden ♪
♪ With milk and honey blest ♪
♪ Beneath thy... ♪
Unless you stop
this behaviour at once,
I may be forced to take other measures.
I suggest that you make up
your minds quickly.
Ready?
Okay.
We will try once more.
That's the lot, come on, quick!
I'll drop one of these gas bombs, shall I?
You twerp,
give it to me, you'll spoil everything!
I'm not going to have
any more of this.
Do you hear what I said?
Keep your places.
Silence... at once... silence!
Mr. Paterson... those boys on the roof,
I want their names at once.
All members of the staff
will go into the body of the hall
and stand by their forms.
We shall stay here all day if necessary.
I will not tolerate
any more disturbances
or any further show of disobedience!
The teachers will note the name
of any boy or girl who does not sing,
and report them to me.
Now... Miss Merrow.
We want Dingle.
Justice for Mr. Dingle.
I will give you all
one more chance.
We want Dingle.
We want Dingle.
One, two, three, four,
who are we for?
Dingle.
Silence.
D-I-N-G-L-E!
Dismiss... Dismiss.
All right, girls. That will do.
Paulette,
will you collect the impositions?
The rest of you pay attention.
Peggy? will you kindly rub this out?
And you might all note that the word
tyranny is spelled with two N's, not one.
This is Mr. Scott, children.
The schools inspector.
He has just come along to see
how well we are doing with our lessons.
Thank you, Miss Wyvern.
Just carry on as usual please.
Right, children.
Just a few simple,
general knowledge questions to begin with.
Answer up smartly now.
Ah... Lawson.
Will you tell us
when Magna Carta was signed, by whom
and what were its principle contents.
Magna Charta chicaroco choo chi twelve
fifteen. Babodidi lorum paddy waddy wah.
Ocho ocho itimon er King John.
Chicaroce chio chu the Barons.
More slowly, Lawson please.
Enunciate carefully.
Magna Charta chicaroco choo chi twelve
fifteen. Dabodidi lorum paddy waddy wah.
Ocho ocho itimon King John.
Chicaroce chio chu... the Barons.
That will do.
Putnam, give a brief
description of Manchester,
its climate, population
and chief industries.
Manchester did you say, sir?
I did. Carry on.
Manchester... let me see now.
Manchester... It's a city, sir.
You know very well it's a city.
Answer the question.
Um...
Manchester
is the capital city of Manchuria.
Stop! Stop at once.
Go to Mr. Frome
and tell him I sent you.
- Riley.
- Yes sir?
- Tell the class.
- Um... Tell them what, sir?
Tell the class...
Is Manchester anywhere near Manchuria?
Oh no, sir.
Good... where is it?
Um... Abyssinia, sir.
Riley!
Yes sir. I know sir.
Now... we'll have some order here.
Browning...
What is the principal
industry of Manchester?
What sir? Who sir, me sir?
Answer!
Answer what, sir?
What do they make in Manchester?
Bread pudding, sir.
Browning!
There's been a certain amount of unrest
in the school, but that'll pass.
Children are notoriously sentimental.
But you told me to light a match, sir.
Sorry Alex. Can't be did.
At the end of the week I move on.
But you'll get another job teaching, love.
Not in this town. Not in this country
if the head has any say in it.
I could squeeze another...
well... another pound a week.
You're a prince Alex.
No, I couldn't do it.
No... I'll do a spot of travelling...
eh, go abroad.
- You're going abroad?
- Mmm... To foreign parts, Rene.
I went abroad once.
Boulogne on a day trip. It was horrible.
I think I'll go further than that.
Japan. China.
I've always wanted
to study oriental music.
You'll never be happy without
your kids... your angels.
Mmm... My devils.
Yes. I'll...
I'll miss the little perishers,
but I doubt they'll miss me, though.
I doubt if in a couple of days,
they'll remember my name.
We want Dingle! We want Dingle!
How much longer do you intend
to keep this up, Putnam?
We want Dingle! We want Dingle!
Putnam!
Sir?
- I have been very patient.
- Too patient.
Please, Mr. Routledge.
I'm giving your last warning.
You will go down
and stop this noise.
You understand?
I don't want to hear
another word from any of you.
Yes sir.
You've had your fun.
Now back to work.
We'll all try to forget these... incidents.
If we could make you understand
about Mr. Dingle, sir.
That will do. Not another word.
Not another word from any of you.
Is that clear?
Yes sir... not another word.
We want Dingle! We want Dingle!
We want Dingle!
I'm afraid we're being too lax... too lax.
I am open to any useful suggestions,
Mr. Routledge.
A strong dose of discipline.
Any fool can govern
with a stick in his hand.
These children happen to be
standing up for something...
someone they believe in.
You mean you condone their conduct?
No, no. On the contrary.
But we can all afford to
reflect upon our own failure.
- Failure?
- Yes, failure, Mr. Routledge.
They are loyal to one man.
Have you or I... been able to inspire
the same devotion and loyalty?
They've stopped.
They've quietened down.
I think they've come
to their senses.
Browning!
Give the names of the principal leaders
of the French Revolution.
Browning... did you hear me?
Ah... I'll come back to you later.
Riley, give the answer!
Ah...
A conspiracy of silence eh?
Wilson...
Morris...
Mansard!
Crowther... Stand up.
Stand up I say!
The headmaster shall hear of this.
- They won't talk. They won't talk.
- Nor mine. Not a word.
They won't answer me...
they won't speak.
They've gone dumb!
Yes, yes. Of course.
Not unless it is absolutely necessary.
Thank you.
Mr. Frome, the whole school is silent.
They refuse to speak.
- Won't answer any questions.
- It's rebellion.
One girl did pass me a note...
They are obeying your orders, headmaster.
- My orders?
- That's what the note said.
You are supposed to have told
one of the senior boys
that you didn't want to hear a word
from any pupil at the school.
Please... I have been on the telephone
to the Director of Education.
As you know,
this term ends in three days' time.
I have permission to advance the date.
We will close this term now... at once.
Won't that look as though
we're giving in to them?
I don't think so. The school
will be on holiday for six weeks.
When we reassemble, this little incident
will have been forgotten.
I think that's a first-rate idea.
Three days extra holiday.
That'll scuttle 'em.
Perhaps you'd all go back to your forms
and make the announcement.
Very well, headmaster.
I don't like it, headmaster.
Smacks of surrender.
I don't like it either, Mr. Routledge,
but I think it may prove to be effective.
Eyes left!
Eyes front!
Headmaster...
Oh, headmaster... A terrible thing.
They've locked
themselves in the gymnasium.
- Gymnasium?
- Yes!
They say they won't... they won't budge
until Mr. Dingle comes back.
- We must show them once and for all.
- What do you suggest I do?
Call the police, the fire brigade,
and have them evicted?
No... No, we'll wait.
They are young, healthy animals.
In an hour's time,
they'll be wanting their tea.
In two hours, they'll be ravenous.
We'll wait.
Right. Lawson get up here.
Tell us the moment you see anyone.
Morris, Browning, Ginger... Check
the doors and see that they're locked.
Nicky, I'm hungry.
Paulette...
You're in charge of supplies.
No rations to be issued without authority.
Nicky, I'm starving!
You'll wait! We've got
to go easy on the grub.
We might be here for weeks yet.
Weeks? Crumbs!
I shall fall through my trousers
and hang myself on my braces.
Anyone come yet?
I wouldn't see them if they did.
I'm so hungry
I've got spots in front of my eyes.
Honest Nicky, I could eat a horse
and still find room for the saddle.
This is the limit... Come on!
You're not from this school, are you?
No sir.
Then you're trespassing...
Go on, march!
Look out... The head!
What are you doing here?
Ginger. Lock that door.
Paulette, dish out an orange,
a piece of cake and a couple of sweets.
Then check on what we have left.
Cave... here's old Frome!
Lawson isn't it?
Yes sir.
Will you kindly open this door, Lawson?
I can't sir.
Putnam.
All right Lawson.
You do realise
what you're doing, don't you?
Yes sir.
I have not come here to argue with you.
But at least think of your parents
and for their sakes,
put a stop to this farce.
I'm sorry sir.
We think Mr. Dingle has been
unfairly treated and we intend to--
I'll give you 30 minutes
in which to make up your mind.
If you haven't
come to your senses by then,
I shall send for the police
and force an entry.
What follows will be
on your own heads.
Nicky... what are we going to do?
Do?
It's no good banging our heads against
a brick wall. We've done all we could.
- Are you turning chicken?
- Of course not.
But we can't fight the police.
I reckon it's bluff...
I'm for holding out.
Now listen.
I know it's not easy.
But why did we start this business
in the first place?
Because old Dingle had a raw deal.
That hasn't altered.
Did he ever stop to think
of the consequences when he helped us?
Did he ever let us down?
And are we going to... crawl out now
on our hands and knees
and let them get away with it?
They think we're a bunch of kids
who don't know what we're doing...
Well I'm for calling their bluff.
We've got enough food here
to feed a regiment.
We can hold out until Kingdom come.
So who's with me, eh?
Who's for fighting?
Right. Up the Angels.
We'll show them we're not done yet.
Yes.
Oh Nicky, you were marvellous.
Oh, come off it Paulette.
I mean it.
As you were talking, I felt as though
I'd been struck by lightning.
He's gone!
That's odd.
He was here a moment or so ago.
Perhaps he's gone to the police already.
It's time they were called in.
We want Dingle... We want Dingle...
Ach! You've no milk.
I'll pop down and get you some.
I don't like milk.
But you must have milk!
I don't like milk. I hate milk.
Milk makes me vomit.
Will you get out of the room,
or shall I chase you out with this fork?
Go away. I don't want any milk.
Do you want me to--
Oh hello, headmaster.
Come in!
You're just in time
to split a crumpet with me.
Thank you.
♪ You are my first love ♪
♪ My first and last love ♪
♪ We'll make this love last for evermore ♪
♪ We'll prove a love as young ♪
♪ As spring keeps glowing ♪
♪ Even though the chill November winds ♪
♪ Keep blowing ♪
♪ We'll show that two hearts ♪
♪ Two young but true hearts ♪
♪ Can do what few hearts
Have done before ♪
♪ Till the sun grows cold ♪
♪ Till time stands still ♪
♪ We'll feel the magic thrill ♪
♪ Of our first love ♪
♪ You are my first love ♪
♪ My first and last love ♪
♪ We'll make this love ♪
♪ Last for evermore ♪
♪ We'll show that two hearts ♪
♪ Two young but true hearts ♪
♪ Can do what few hearts
Have done before ♪
♪ Till the sun grows cold ♪
♪ Till time stands still ♪
♪ We'll feel the magic thrill ♪
♪ Of our first love ♪
♪ You are my first love ♪
- I've been wasting my time.
- I wouldn't say that.
I've enjoyed our little chat.
Pity you can't stay longer.
I did hope to persuade you to use
your influence with those children.
It's just a lot of childish nonsense.
When you get back,
you'll find they've all gone home to tea.
I wish I could believe that.
I'm sorry, headmaster.
But I honestly don't see--
You're sorry... you don't see. Precisely.
This deplorable situation is
as much your responsibility as mine
but you're lucky.
You were born without a conscience.
You're one of those bright
irresponsible people
who create trouble
and then wash their hands of it.
Ho ho, I like that. I didn't walk out.
You fired me, remember?
I should have done it months ago.
But, well... I liked you.
I thought you were a good teacher.
Goodnight, Mr. Dingle.
- Hey wait a minute.
- Yes?
Are you trying to shift
the blame on me?
I'm trying to tell you
that you had a part in it.
You put your music and your orchestra
above everything else.
You not only encouraged defiance,
you aided and abetted it.
And yet you now try to pretend
that this...
this "nonsense" had nothing whatever
to do with you.
Of course I don't.
But you handled it all wrong.
You put everybody's backs up
right from the start.
I'm not a perfect headmaster, Mr. Dingle.
Please don't make
a catalogue of my mistakes,
I know them better than you.
What are you going to do?
- Why? Are you interested?
- Yes.
I shall call the police
and have them removed,
by force if necessary.
No doubt you will read
about it in the newspapers.
It isn't a story that will do
much credit to either of us.
After that I shall...
tender my resignation.
Why do you want to do that?
I don't want to do it, Mr. Dingle.
Strange as it may seem
I've always enjoyed my work.
I even thought I might make
a good job of running this school.
It seems I overestimated my capacity.
Good night.
Hey hold your horses.
Hey, hey wait a minute!
Does Nicky know that
you're going to marry him?
Sh!
There's no need to shout.
- I'm not going to marry him.
- You've just said--
Not yet.
I'm only trying to explain to you
so that you won't be hurt.
Oh I won't be hurt.
You say that but I know.
Really I do, Ginger.
But time alters everything.
You'll find a girl much prettier than me.
Hmm, shouldn't be difficult.
There's no need to take it that way.
You'll aways be my very best friend
and I shall always think of you
with the utmost affection.
Thank you...
Wish the police would come.
At least we'd know.
Cave!
Here's Frome... and hey...
Dingle's with him, Dingle!
Open up!
Come on, open up.
No... I... I'm sorry sir but we...
I want to talk to you.
Come on open up
and look smart about it.
All right sir.
Dingle wants to speak to us.
Come on, get this stuff cleared away.
Three cheers for Mr. Dingle.
- Hip hip!
- Hooray!
- Hip hip!
- Hooray!
- Hip hip!
- Hooray!
Right...
Now let's get this straight.
First of all, I'm not coming back here
to take up my old job.
You've made that impossible.
You've behaved like irresponsible idiots...
I'm ashamed of you.
You're old enough to know
your geometry, aren't you?
Since when has the part
been greater than the whole?
Since when has one man been
more important than the whole school?
We were... only
standing up for fair play, sir.
Well, it does credit to your hearts
but not your heads.
And if you're not coming back sir...
we'll carry on fighting.
We'll find other ways.
Yes, we will!
Sentimental rubbish.
Now let's look at the facts.
Number one, I was asked to resign
because I committed a breach of
school discipline, a serious breach.
Mr. Frome had no choice.
Why didn't you come to me
and ask me how I felt about it?
How did you know I wanted
to come back here and teach?
You do sir, don't you?
Well that brings me to fact number two.
I have already taken another job.
Aw...
You're kidding, sir?
Kidding?
You flatter yourselves, don't you?
What makes you think you're so special
that I should want
to come back here and teach?
There are plenty of other schools.
We've been wasting our time then.
Precisely what
I've been trying to tell you.
Wait a minute all of you.
Will you all please listen to me
for one moment.
- Headmaster, I think--
- You too, Mr. Dingle.
I ought to tell you that Mr. Dingle
has not taken another appointment.
I'm fairly sure of it.
- But I soon will.
- As I thought.
I don't want you to go away feeling
that Mr. Dingle... has let you down.
Perhaps it was my own fault
but I was never able to...
to win your confidence
and affection as he's done.
That is something that shouldn't
be destroyed lightly, Mr. Dingle.
- You're ruining everything.
- I wonder.
I think you've all behaved very badly...
for the best reasons,
I should like you to pay me
the compliment of recognising that
I have been guilty in the same way.
Now you can put your mistake
right by forgetting this incident.
You can also help me
to put my mistake right.
Will you persuade Mr. Dingle
to change his mind
and to come back to us?
Yes!
Three cheers for the headmaster!
- Hip hip!
- Hooray!
- Hip hip!
- Hooray!
- Hip hip!
- Hooray!