Passport to China (1960) - full transcript
A pilot slips his plane into Red China to rescue an American girl trapped there, but when he lands he discovers that the girl has a surprise for him--she wants him to fill his plane with Chinese refugees and fly them out of the country, too.
DON: You're looking at Hong Kong,
my home since the end of World War II.
I have a neon sign hanging
in the heart of this international city
that says "Don Benton,
Travel Agency".
Don Benton, that's my name.
And the travel agency?
That's my business.
And into this modest
establishment of mine
flock all the ingredients
of civilisation,
from royalty to impostors,
from the cream of society
to the dregs of the gutters.
And Hong Kong makes room for them all,
and that makes it just about
the most exciting city in the world.
From the luxury villas on the peak
down to the narrow streets
off the waterfront,
the place is a hive,
humming with human energy.
Three million people jostle together
on a rock off the
mainland of Red China,
every one engaged
in a fierce personal pursuit.
Of what?
Food, money, pleasure, love...
maybe even a little information.
And for me, Hong Kong's a city
where my wartime know-how
earns me a buck or two.
My travel agency will land you
with speed, courtesy and comfort,
at any place in South East Asia,
so long as its rulers don't
happen to dislike your face, or, er...
or your politics.
These days, some of them
can be kind of choosy.
Miss? Is Mr Benton in?
- No. In soon.
- Okay, I'll wait.
WOMAN #1: Don't they want
tourists in Indonesia?
All those forms and photographs.
We've put them in,
we've paid the fees.
- And what fees! Anybody would think...
- It is the consulate, madam.
They say very sorry, cannot issue visas
until you have airline tickets.
Say, do you mean to say that
you haven't got the tickets either?
Airline says, very sorry,
cannot issue tickets without visas.
- Very difficult for us, madam.
- WOMAN #1: Difficult for you?
- SWEE KIM: Please, madam...
- WOMAN #1: Oh, good morning, Mr Benton.
Hello. Everything all right?
Sure, except for your friends
in the Indonesian consulate.
- We planned to leave today.
- Oh, visa trouble, eh?
Well, it's a little difficult
to rush these people.
Rush? It's been three weeks.
Well, these young republics,
I'm afraid they're apt to
wear their brand new independence
like a brand new suit.
I guess we were pretty much the same
in Washington a couple of hundred years ago.
- Yes, but we weren't on vacation then.
- Mmm.
Er... Swee Kim, call in Hussein.
He's one of our drivers.
He's an Indonesian
with relatives in the consulate.
I'm sure if you send him back in
with a little present, er...
about twenty dollars ought to do it,
you'll have your visas back
within an hour.
(CHUCKLING)
Oh, thank you. Thank you very much.
Could I speak to you
in private, Mr Benton?
- About a tour?
- Well, could be.
Something a little
off the beaten track.
Well, sure.
Have a seat.
"Chungking, 1938."
Tough enemy, the Japs.
Mmm, very.
In those days, flying was still fun.
At least we flew aircraft,
not electronic computers.
"From Chula of Thai
to a good friend of the country."
The Prince seems to
regard you as a hero.
I was able to advise him
on his jade collection.
Now, just what
can I do for you, Mr, um...?
Johnson. Sam Johnson.
Ah, yes.
You came in via Manila.
I see you keep an eye
on the arrivals.
Well, travel is our business,
Mr Johnson.
- Besides, we have an office there.
- And good connections elsewhere, I'm told.
We manage to cover
most of the ports out here.
No, I meant personal connections.
Weren't you a friend of Lee Huan Ho,
the scholar, up in Shanghai?
Well, don't hold that
against the poor man. He's dead.
Yeah. I gather he wasn't very happy
under the new régime.
And Father Rodriguez,
who had the mission at Amoy.
Just how do you happen
to know all this?
Oh, through mutual friends.
To be frank,
I've heard a lot about you.
You've been in China
a long time, Mr Benton.
You flew with
General Chennault's Flying Tigers,
ferrying munitions and food
for the Chinese.
In our war, you fought
the Japs again in the Pacific.
You speak Cantonese
and, I believe, Malay.
Your knowledge of the Chinese
and their customs is,
shall we say, unusual?
Suppose we cut the build-up,
Mr Johnson?
Just what are you trying
to sell me?
Well, let's say an idea
that you should meet a friend of mine.
- Someone who wants your help.
- (KNOCKING)
Tai Ko. Man shui.
To chieh nei Swee Kim.
But I'm busy now.
When feet's happy,
mind calm for contemplation.
(CHUCKLING)
This is my sister.
- Oh?
- It seems it's my birthday.
I'm commanded to live
ten thousand years.
- Sure.
- SWEE KIM: You like?
DON: Yes, Swee Kim.
I like them very much.
Now, leave the tea things
and run along. I've a visitor.
- Cheng yum cha?
- Oh, thanks.
It's a little Chinese custom.
You don't have to drink it.
You were saying?
I was speaking about my friend.
Ah, yes, the, er...
the guy that wants to meet me.
Well, why doesn't he come here?
Well, it's a very confidential matter,
Mr Benton.
He felt it would be better
discussed elsewhere.
But first he wanted confirmation
of a few small facts.
Oh, he does, does he?
Well, I'll confirm a few
for him right now.
I'm a travel agent, and my business
isn't so darned confidential
- that it can't be talked out loud.
- (BUZZER)
- Good morning, Mr Johnson.
- (DOOR OPENING)
(DOOR CLOSING)
- Tai Ko, man shui.
- Oh, thank you, Swee Lim.
Another sister?
This gentleman was just leaving.
Sir Arthur Cragg has called, Tai Ko.
He wants to see you about his reservation
for his holiday in the Philippines.
Oh, well, er...
call him back and tell him
I'll bring the schedule myself.
I'll, er... be on
the next train for the peak.
- You still here, Mr Johnson?
- I'm on my way.
But you'll hear from us again.
Probably from my chief, Mr Orme.
And, er... I'll need a car.
(LAUGHING)
Tai Ko, your shoe!
(BOTH LAUGHING)
DON: My business with Sir Arthur
took me to his villa on the peak,
where the homes of the rich Taipans
command one of the finest views in Asia.
It had been a pleasant break
from the heat and bustle of the port,
and I was sorry to have to return.
Hello. The air's so good
up here at the peak,
it seems a shame to have to
go down to the city, you know.
Oh, yes.
Oh, excuse me.
That's a fine view, Mr Benton.
Finest in the world.
Er... have we met before?
No, not in the flesh,
but Orme's the name.
Charles Orme, of Washington DC.
Oh. I see.
Yeah, I thought you would.
Have you read this morning's paper?
"Mystery of missing Formosan plane."
- I've read it.
- Interesting bit of news.
- To some, maybe.
- (CHUCKLING) Oh, to lots of people.
And most certainly to us.
Us?
Well, er... shall we say, to a certain
department of the US Government?
You can guess why.
I'm a punk guesser, Mr Orme.
Well, strictly between ourselves,
we're concerned about this missing plane.
Why? Isn't that more a matter for
the nationalist Chinese in Formosa?
Oh, it concerns us, too.
That's why I'm so happy to meet you.
I don't get you, Mr Orme.
- Well, I believe you can help us.
- How?
There's someone aboard that plane
whose safety is, er...
well, important to the West.
All I know is
what everybody else knows.
There was a typhoon,
and radio contact was lost,
just before the plane disappeared.
It was off course.
Last indications were
that it was heading for Canton.
It may have landed on the mainland.
Have you tried to contact
the airport in Canton?
Hong Kong's been calling them
ever since the plane was reported overdue.
A sheer waste of time.
- Especially if the, er...
- If it was forced down.
Mm-hmm.
Well, why do you come to me?
Because you have contacts, Mr Benton.
Contacts in many places.
- Perhaps even in Canton.
- Oh.
You mean, er...
undercover work, hmm?
Sorry, I leave that to the authorities.
Mr Orme, I'm a businessman.
I can't get involved in
anything political,
anything that might prejudice
my relations with the Communist government,
such as they are.
It's our country's interests
we're discussing, Mr Benton.
Hong Kong is my home.
I can't afford to endanger
the position I've built up here.
- Tai Ko. Cho chei.
- Cho chei ah yik.
(CHUCKLING)
I'd offer you a lift,
but the family requires my presence.
- The family?
- Yeah. His family, and mine.
DON:
I wasn't kidding, either.
It was a Chinese family
I'd come to know and love
during the war against
the Japanese.
In those bad old days,
we helped each other many times.
Now, they called me "son",
and in their family affairs,
I was as much involved as in my own.
- (SUDDEN NOISE)
- (CHUCKLING)
How're you doing, old boy, huh?
(CHUCKLING)
Here, sit over here.
And here's your rations, okay?
- Tai Ko!
- Oh, hi, darling!
How are you, huh? Huh?
Hard at it?
What's all this now, hmm?
"The brain.
The seat of the intellect."
Grandmother doesn't agree.
She says the seat of the intellect
is in the stomach.
She's a wise woman.
Where is she?
In the garden, waiting for you.
(BIRDS CHIRPING)
Morning, Mother.
You wanted to talk with me?
- Man sui sing shang.
- (CHUCKLING)
Even the servants won't let me
forget I'm a year older today.
Another year more foolish.
Still without a son.
You mean without a wife
to give me a son.
Did you send for me
to tell me that again?
No.
You will know something about
flying ship that lost its way?
Oh, the Formosan plane?
No, none of my passengers
were aboard.
Passengers!
You think of passengers!
What about your brother?
Jimmy?
Was he the pilot?
Last night sampan man come in
with message from river people.
Jimmy's fly-ship down
near Chinan Fu.
Oh.
Well, then Johnson was right.
That island's way up the estuary
near Canton. That's Red territory.
Is Jimmy safe?
Message come from Jimmy.
He say river people pick him up,
hiding him in hut outside fishing village.
Mm-hmm. And the others?
No can tell. Nobody open mouth.
Well, he's among friends.
But they'll need money.
They'll probably try to smuggle him
aboard a junk to get him out.
Money no good.
Junk people plenty scared.
Too many boats in river.
Gunboats and patrols.
I know.
And if they're caught with
a Formosan officer aboard...
Gunboats, no gunboats,
must get Jimmy home.
Yes, we must. But how?
You fix it.
I fix it?
Just have the office write him
out a ticket, just like that, huh?
Somebody must go.
Yes. Somebody.
Not you, Tai Ko. You do too much
for us too many times already.
Now look, Tai Tai. A long time ago,
when a certain crazy flier was in trouble,
who was it took him in and fed him?
Who risked their lives to hide him
from the Japanese? Remember?
Long time ago. Bad time.
Best be forgotten.
Not by me, old mother.
That sampan man, where is he?
In kitchen sleeping.
Last night he come.
I give him pork and rice.
Him very sick at stomach.
Poor devil. He needed it, I guess.
Well, give him some more, because
I'm going to need him and his boat.
Don't worry, Mother.
I'll... I'll bring Jimmy home.
Take care.
I don't want to lose two sons.
Good sailing weather, Mr Benton.
I think we'll be there
in about five hours.
That means we'll get home
early morning, huh?
- Think so.
- Good.
(MOTOR CHUGGING)
(INSECTS CHIRRUPING)
(DISTANT SHOUTING)
(MOTOR SHUTTING OFF)
(SHOUTING)
(WOMAN LAUGHING)
Oh!
(GIGGLING)
(MOTOR CHUGGING)
- Chinan Fu?
- Hai, Chinan Fu.
Stop engines.
(DISTINCTIVE WHISTLE)
(WHISTLING)
Tai Ko!
Wait there!
Don! Don!
Quick, the engines!
Don!
(GUNSHOTS)
Come on, Jimmy.
This side.
(GUNSHOTS)
- Here, Jimmy. All right?
- Pretty good.
Ah Hong, let's get out of here.
Sure I was decoyed.
The radio bearing I received
showed me dead on course
for Hong Kong, ninety miles south.
And there I was, over Canton.
Next thing I knew, two MiGs
were on my tail, ordering me to land.
Why didn't you?
(CHUCKLING)
Maybe I was annoyed.
Anyway, I saw some low cloud
over the estuary, and dived for it.
Thought I'd made it, too,
but they'd knocked out my port engine.
Had to make a belly landing
on the water.
Anybody hurt?
No, don't think so.
And before you could say "Reds",
the place was thick with launches.
Waiting, I expect.
They took everybody off,
only three passengers and the crew,
and sank the plane.
I saw it.
Who were the passengers?
Two men and a woman.
- American?
- Mmm, one of the men, I think.
Where were you?
In the drink. Soon as I saw what
they were up to, I went overboard.
They... didn't they see you?
Sure. Kissed me goodbye, too,
with a drum of tracer bullets.
I dived again.
I swam for what seemed like hours.
In the end, I got tangled
in a fishing net.
It belonged to the old man
from Chinan Fu.
They brought me to the island,
and hid me in that deserted hut.
- They're brave people in that village.
- Yes.
Well, you'd better try
to get some sleep.
We'll be in
in the early morning.
(SHIP'S HORN)
For Ah Hong.
He deserves it.
Good to see Hong Kong again.
- See, when this story gets around...
- It mustn't get around.
Not till we know what
the authorities have to say.
I'll contact your HQ in Formosa.
Meantime, better not talk to anyone.
Better for whom?
Better for all concerned,
including you.
I'm taking you straight home.
(CHILDREN LAUGHING)
Jimmy! Hello, Jimmy!
Thank you, Tai Ko.
For taking Jimmy
on a fishing trip?
Oh. Well, what has Tai Tai
told you?
Nothing.
But when you had left,
Swee Lim and I saw her
burning joss sticks to Kwan Yin,
praying for her sons.
So all night, we prayed too,
for our brothers.
Thank you, Swee Kim.
I guess she must have heard you.
Goddess of mercy always hears.
One day you will see,
when your wife asks her for a son.
Well, she'll have to provide me
with a wife first, Swee Kim.
Perhaps I ask her that, too.
Tai Ko, Tai Ko,
come and play with us.
Well, here we are, Mother.
Safe and sound, and very hungry.
MAO:
Good.
Sorry to give you
too much worry, Grandmother.
Better say sorry to Tai Ko.
Yes, Grandmother.
Come here.
Jimmy, you been in trouble?
Plenty trouble, until Tai Ko
came to find me.
Not that.
I mean deep trouble
No. Is anything the matter?
Soon we'll see.
Oh, hello, Inspector.
Come to join the family reunion?
I'm afraid not, Mr Benton.
I'm here on official business.
With this man.
Just arrived in Hong Kong?
- Sure. Landed from a...
- Sampan, early this morning?
Well, of course he did.
He came with me.
I'm sorry, Mr Benton.
Leave this to me, please.
- What is your name?
- Mao Chi Mei. Jimmy to my friends.
Captain,
Chinese Nationalist Air Force.
Any papers?
Something to identify yourself?
I can identify him.
I've known him ever since he was...
Mr Benton, please.
Well?
No, I haven't. I crash-landed
in the estuary two nights ago.
Everything I had is at
the bottom of the river.
Then I'm afraid you'll
have to come with me.
This is ridiculous.
All you've got to do is call up
Air Control, and they'll verify the...
We know that, Mr Benton.
I shouldn't try to interfere,
if I were you.
Come on, young man.
Okay, okay, I'll come.
This is a damn fool silly mistake.
No hurry, please.
They come long way,
no food yet in belly.
Very good roast duck in oven.
Plenty for Inspector, too.
It's no use, Tai Tai.
He has to go.
Police all same.
Just like...
Ah, now, now, Mother,
don't worry.
I... I'll get these things changed, and
go down and see what I can do about it.
Must eat first. Flowers of wisdom
spring from well-filled stomach.
Yeah, but an empty belly
sharpens the tongue.
(CHATTERING)
What's going on in here, Taylor?
Didn't take you long
to get here, Mr Benton.
No, it didn't take me
long to get here,
but you kept me waiting
long enough.
I'm sorry.
What can I do for you?
Hmm! You know very well
what you can do for me.
Release Jimmy Mao.
Where's the Superintendent?
ORME:
One moment, Mr Benton.
You told me only yesterday
that you didn't want to become
involved in matters of this kind.
So perhaps it might be better
if you just stayed uninvolved.
Well, when you approached me,
I didn't know
that Jimmy Mao was
the pilot of that plane.
That makes a difference?
I've known him and his family
for many years,
and so have most of
the members of your police force.
Any case, you can't hold him
without a definite charge.
Quite true. There is a charge.
Of what?
Opium smuggling.
Jimmy Mao an opium smuggler?
That's a darned fool suggestion,
and you know it.
What are you trying
to pin on him?
We've arrested Mao
for his own protection.
If his story checks, then it's essential
the Reds don't learn of his escape.
Well, you've picked the
quickest way to tell them.
We think not.
No-one would connect Huan Ling Foo,
held for a smuggling offence,
with the Nationalist pilot,
Captain Mao.
I came to tell you that, if
Mao was not released immediately,
I was going to hire the best lawyer
in Hong Kong to defend him.
But, before I decide
to play it your way,
perhaps you'll tell me
what's behind all this.
I brought him out, remember?
I think you can rely on
Mr Benton's discretion, Mr Orme.
Thank you, Inspector.
You know that we had
a courier aboard that plane
carrying information
important to the West.
Indeed, in a certain field,
vitally important.
What field are we in?
Shall we say "scientific"?
Now you'll understand why
it's essential that we find out
what happened to that courier.
TAYLOR:
And how it happened.
Jimmy says he was decoyed.
Do you think he was lying?
Lying or not, the indications are
that the other side knew
what that plane was carrying.
And, if the operation
was planned ahead,
it suggests a further possibility.
Connivance by the pilot.
Oh, Jimmy wouldn't work
with the Reds.
TAYLOR: I hope you're right.
Meanwhile, as you'll appreciate,
he's safer in custody.
All right.
I won't fight it. Yet.
Erm... you wanted me to help you.
Thanks, Benton,
but everything's under control.
The Service is pursuing
its own investigations.
Hmm. In that case...
- You realise, of course, that...
- Oh, don't worry.
I'll keep my mouth shut.
Tai Ko. Tai Tai.
(DOOR LATCH CLICKING)
Not good.
You see Jimmy?
No.
And you're not to try to
see him either, till I tell you.
Police all same.
Make big trouble
because Jimmy had accident.
Well, some people think
maybe it wasn't an accident.
Not the police.
The Superintendent's on our side.
You give him present?
Maybe he want more?
- No matter.
- (CHUCKLING) No, Mother, no.
Nobody wants a present.
They... they want proof.
- (BUZZER)
- And proof is somewhere up that river.
So?
Oh, Swee Kim,
I'm leaving for the mainland.
Not Canton?
No, no, the doorstep to Canton.
Otherwise, a routine visit
to our office in Macao.
Wire Pereira to meet me at the boats.
Hong Kong... Macao...
Canton.
To clear Jimmy's name, I had to
find out what had really happened
to the missing plane,
and bring back proof of Jimmy's story.
So, that afternoon, I crossed
by the Tong Shan
to the Portuguese territory of Macao,
a useful listening post
on the edge of the Bamboo Curtain.
Mr Benton!
I'm sorry to keep you waiting,
Mr Benton.
We've got a rush of tourists
on our hands just now.
Don't apologise for that.
We need them!
- Did you understand my wire?
- Yes, sir, and I got busy right away.
Don Benton. Okay.
But, er... nobody here seems to know
anything about the missing plane.
The... the Portuguese authorities say
that none of our nationals
was travelling on board,
so they're not interested.
But it is very sad about the pilot.
What about him?
Well, I remember that he was
a friend of yours.
It is suggested that
the plane was lost,
with all its occupants,
in the typhoon.
Well, I have reason to
believe that it wasn't.
- You, um... tried the river people?
- Yes, sir.
The sampan men that we hire
for our tourist trips.
One of them seems to have
heard some kind of rumour.
He's on the wharf now.
- Reliable?
- Well, as a boatman, yes.
When he chooses to turn up.
I believe he does
a little smuggling on the side.
But he says he knows
the pilot's mother.
- Mao Tai Tai?
- Mmm.
- I'd like to talk to him.
- Ah Wing!
Ah Wing.
- Mr Benton.
- How do?
Hello, Ah Wing.
So you're a friend of M...
Mao Tai Tai?
Hai.
Your licence, Ah Wing.
Better make a show of hiring him.
Do you know, er...
many places around here?
Hai. Macao, Canton, Pearl River...
Chinan Fu.
You've heard something
about Chinan Fu?
Three days ago, plenty fog.
Fishermen hear sound like fly-ship,
very low on water.
Then noise finish.
Make like fly-ship finish too.
Thanks.
Maybe you'll work for me sometime.
Is... is that the
information you wanted?
- It checks.
- Well, that's fine.
Now you will have time to
dine with me before you leave.
Before what?
Well, the... the Tong Shan
sails at seven.
Of course, if you prefer
to get the night boat...
Mr Pereira, are you trying
to get rid of me?
Oh, by no means, Mr Benton.
Only...
What's on your mind?
Well, until I knew
the nature of your enquiries,
it didn't seem very important,
but, er...
Ivano Kang is here.
Ivano Kang!
He arrived in Canton yesterday,
from Moscow.
Now, a man in his position doesn't fly
5,000 miles for nothing, Mr Benton.
No. No, he doesn't.
And he was seen in Macao last night,
at the gambling casino.
Well, maybe he just wants
a little action at the tables.
Do you think he'll come again?
Of course he will.
It's only an hour or so by car.
Now, Macao is, shall we say, neutral
territory, but frankly, Mr Benton...
You think it might be dangerous
for me to stay here?
Mr Benton, it is dangerous for anyone
who shows so much interest
in the happenings along the estuary.
Now, you know me, Mr Benton.
If there's anything I can do for you...
Well, thanks, Pereira.
You can take me home,
and ask your charming wife
to let me have a room.
You... you're staying?
I think I might like
some action at the tables myself.
(TRAFFIC PASSING)
(CHATTERING)
Mr Benton!
Long time no see.
Hi, Liang Ti!
I've been too busy
sending you rich tourists.
So now you come yourself,
with pockets full of dollars
to lose at the tables.
Well, there is one here
named Jasmine Bud. A darling.
- Hmm?
- No?
Merely to see old friends?
Well, to see one old friend,
Liang Ti.
I never thought that words alone
could make me so happy, Don.
Even if I know they're not true.
Have I ever lied to you, Liang Ti?
Are you in trouble, Don?
No, it's... it's for a friend
of yours and mine.
I'm, er... trying to find out
what happened to a certain plane.
- The one that disappeared?
- Mmm.
Well, what makes you think
I know anything about it?
You have many visitors from Canton.
Well, there is one,
but I don't think...
Miss Liang Ti, somebody
want change more money.
Later. Amuse yourself, Don.
Oh, excuse me.
Who's in there?
(SPEAKING RUSSIAN)
Liang Ti say maybe you like
something to drink.
Brandy? Champagne?
Oh, just bring me
a cold bottle of beer.
You play. I come back to you.
Good girl.
Stick around, and bring me luck.
(INAUDIBLE)
Thank you, honey.
Hey!
(GROANING)
(SHOUTING IN RUSSIAN)
- (FOOTSTEPS RECEDING)
- (DOOR CLOSING)
(KANG CHUCKLING)
Well, well, well,
my old friend, Mr Benton!
And, like all Americans,
in a hurry.
Colonel Kang.
I'm sorry to crash in like this,
but the...
somebody outside is just
a little bit touchy.
- Maybe it was me.
- No, Mr Benton. Not you, I'm sure.
But now that you're here,
why don't you stay for a while,
and forget those troublemakers?
Thanks, but I don't want to
muscle in on your little party.
Good wine is something
to be shared between friends.
So are lovely women.
Consuela...
Peach Blossom...
Tanya.
Tanya...
or Kuma San.
If any of them stirs your fancy...
Well, how can one choose
from so much loveliness?
Perhaps something a little stronger
will help you to decide.
I'm conservative, myself.
I stick to the best mixture
in the world.
Champagne...
- vodka...
- And Sam Shui.
(CHUCKLING)
You remember, eh?
I could hardly forget that!
You persuaded me
to try it one time.
Um... no, no,
this time I think I'll, um...
I'll stick to beer.
So you are here for a vacation?
Unofficially,
it's business, but, er...
one wants a little
relaxation sometimes.
How I agree with you.
I find it a great relief to escape
to the bright lights of Macao.
In these days, Moscow and Peking
have a certain puritanical austerity.
And rightly so, but in time it can
become a little, er...
stifling.
How's the travel business?
Thriving, I hope?
Well, it'd thrive a lot more
if I could book my visitors to China.
But naturally. You should visit Canton
and talk to the authorities about it.
(CHUCKLING)
Are you kidding?
I've been trying for years,
and I still haven't got a visa.
Evidently, you don't approach
the right people.
I'll see what I can do.
(INAUDIBLE)
Kong-mi-ye?
Well, Mr Benton, if you'll
excuse me for a while,
merely to repose for a little,
in a more secluded spot.
- (GIRLS GIGGLING)
- This travelling. So tiring.
Colonel Kang.
I'll see you in Canton.
Mmm.
DON:
Kang kept his word, and fast.
Early next morning, a messenger
was waiting at my Macao office
with a visa to Canton.
I took the next boat,
and, very shortly,
was registering at the hotel.
CLERK:
Welcome to New China, Mr Benton.
Un sop yat.
Number 51 is reserved for you, sir.
Very nice room facing the front.
Reserved?
Hmm, somebody's been very kind.
With the compliments of
China Travel Service, sir,
hoping you will enjoy a happy
and instructive visit to Canton.
I hope so, too.
Anything else?
Yes, sir. The director himself
has telephoned about an interview.
If convenient to you, he'll
send a car at four o'clock.
You like to see your room now?
No, I think I'll take
a little stroll for a while.
Oh, er... am I
supposed to take a guide?
Oh, no, sir.
You can go anywhere you like.
No-one is ever lost in Canton.
I see what you mean.
Can you tell me where I can
pick up a souvenir or two?
What you like, sir?
Very nice Canton silk?
No, no, er...
maybe some porcelain.
Go to the streets of the potters, sir.
Plenty shops there, all together.
Thanks.
(INAUDIBLE CONVERSATION)
DON: The street of the
potters wasn't hard to find,
but what I was after was
the shop of one Han Po.
My friend Liang Ti, head girl
at the Macao gambling casino,
had given me his name
as a man whom I could trust.
(SPEAKING CHINESE)
Oh.
All the best periods:
Ming, Kang Hai...
Poor copies of the masters,
as you see.
If any of them
interest the gentleman?
Well, this one interests me
very much.
That one?
Perhaps a little less
imperfect than the others.
Imperfect?
This is the real thing.
The secret of that glaze was lost
five hundred years ago.
(FOOTSTEPS)
(SPEAKING CHINESE)
You're right. It's, er...
it's a very excellent copy.
For a minute, I was taken in.
I'm looking for something, um...
a little unusual.
Something unusual?
Perhaps I can show you
something in here?
One of these, perhaps?
An unworthy attempt
in the style of Sung.
That's fine work, Han Po.
Anyone would be deceived.
Not you.
The Ming did not deceive you.
Is it so dangerous, then,
to own a piece like that?
Not dangerous, but unwise.
In these days,
things of a certain value...
You would not understand, Sin Shang.
- A craftsman needs...
- I know, I know.
I love the old things, too.
Why does a man of knowledge
come to me, an imitator?
I was sent here by a friend,
a woman named Liang Ti.
One of my clan.
What does she know of pottery?
Not much, but she knows men.
She spoke of one
that I might find here.
What man?
One whose heart is like
the things he fashions.
I need your help, Han Po.
Sin Shang,
this city lives on whispers,
all of spies.
Spies on the land,
and in the sky.
Three nights ago, some were
captured and brought here.
Is anything known about them?
Only that three were foreigners.
Do you know where they are now?
Where?
If the gentleman will
return in two days' time,
it will be glazed,
ready to take away.
Two days?
Why not tomorrow?
Tomorrow, every shop must close,
until the massacre is ended.
The...?
Wh... what massacre?
Tonight is the Night of the Sparrows.
The Night of...
For the present,
all that I can do.
But I think it is what
the gentleman is looking for.
Mr Benton.
Talk plenty business with the
director of the travel bureau?
Ah, the director talked plenty, period.
Maybe we'll get down to
business tomorrow.
Huh? What's all this?
"Cultural Association",
"Agricultural Cooperative",
"Economic Study Group"...
With the compliments of
the information officer, sir.
Makes good bedside reading.
Thanks, er...
Nothing like a little fun in bed.
Mr Benton?
Ma'am, you're in the wrong room.
No, I'm not.
I took great care
to find the right one.
Well, that's mighty kind of you,
but, er...
I've had a long day.
I didn't think you were a fool.
But, er...
perhaps you're on their side?
Whose side?
Oh, you mean those guys you were
doing the conga with in the hall today.
I was trying to speak to you.
So when that failed, you slipped
a buck to the house-boy,
and he gave you my name
and room number. Is that right?
Wrong. It cost me ten.
Well, I'm flattered.
But I hate to see good money wasted.
Was it?
Well, it, um...
it depends on what you want.
I could tell you, if you'd stop
wandering round the room like that.
Lady, I was going to bed.
Don't worry. You'll be there
quite soon. I promise.
You could try and be polite.
All right.
- That better?
- Much better.
Don Benton, American.
Mind if I call you Don?
Ma'am, you can call me
anything you like.
Why did you come to Canton?
To see the Chinese.
Sorry to disappoint you, ma'am.
I just thought if, um...
you'd been someone official,
you might have been able to help me.
I'm, er...
strictly a private citizen,
but if there's anything a
simple businessman can do, I...
- I'd like to try.
- On strictly business grounds, of course.
Might even mix in
a little pleasure,
if I knew what the score was.
You were on that plane, weren't you?
Yeah.
Wasn't a joy ride, either.
When we crashed, I...
I thought we'd drown.
- But they came and took us off.
- Us? Where are the others?
I don't know.
They keep us apart.
They remember I'm a woman.
- You don't say.
- Oh, it didn't stop them searching me.
Then began the questioning.
Hours and hours of it.
Perfect little gentlemen,
but they never let up.
It's been three days now.
I don't know what they want from me.
Well, maybe they don't
know themselves.
Are you under arrest?
Not officially,
but I can't leave the hotel.
I've, um...
heard of people being kept
for months. Even years.
Sometimes, they just disappear.
There must be something
you can do for me.
Ma'am, I'm not a man to let down
a lady in distress, but, er...
there's six hundred million people
out there, and I'm just one guy.
Maybe when I get back to Hong Kong,
I can get in touch with your consul, or...
Or call up the Marines.
Thanks a lot.
Have you tried to
contact any of the others?
How could I?
I haven't seen any of them
since they took us ashore.
Everyone?
All except the pilot.
He tried to escape.
They fired machine guns
at him in the water.
Poor kid.
He never had a chance.
You saw that?
You could testify to it?
Well, sure,
once we get out of here.
Does the design of three fishes
mean anything to you?
Oh, you know about that?
Yes, it's the name of the house
they first took me to.
Brainwashing de luxe.
But, er...
aren't we sort of getting off the...
(KNOCKING)
Which way d'you come?
The balcony?
Yes, Room 26.
- I'll talk to you later.
- Right.
Oh, what's...
what's your name?
- Lola.
- Lola.
Lola Sanchez.
(KNOCKING)
Ah, Mr Benton. How delightful
to see you in Canton.
Won't you ask me to come in?
Don't tell me you need
an invitation.
(DISTANT SINGING)
(SINGING AND JANGLING)
Come here, Mr Benton.
This is something you
must not miss.
Well, what is it?
The spirit of New China.
Nothing will stand in its way.
No man or creature, however small.
- Not even sparrows?
- Sparrows?
Maybe you share the usual capitalist
sentimentality about small animals?
I've no strong feeling either way.
You know that the sparrow eats
nine catties of grain a year?
That much?
Enough to feed a family of six
for weeks.
You don't say.
Tonight in Canton,
there are a million sparrows.
Tomorrow, there will be not one.
Well, what are you going to do?
Send them to the salt mines?
A sparrow can only stay in the air
for two hours without alighting.
At a given signal,
they will be forced into flight,
and will be kept flying
until they fall, exhausted.
The rest is merely
a problem of sanitation.
"The massacre of the sparrows."
The organised elimination
of a greedy pest, Mr Benton.
You'll see the fabulous discipline
of a whole city.
Every man, woman and child
will be out on the streets
with drums, gongs,
rattles, firecrackers,
anything that will make a noise.
Well, maybe some of them
like sparrows?
The people of China
have attained wisdom.
Their sense of duty
overrules individual preference.
Too wise to stick
their necks out, maybe.
- On the subject of wisdom...
- Hmm?
Let me give you a little advice.
Well, I'm always glad
to listen, Colonel.
Hotel rooms are no places
for private conversation.
There are so many ways
in which they can be...
overheard.
No.
Yes.
You m...
No, my friend.
Not as obvious as that.
"I am not a man to turn down
a lady in distress."
That's very flattering.
You remember my words verbatim.
I am disappointed in you,
Mr Benton.
I obtained you a permit so that you
could carry out your lawful business,
and not conspire with persons
detained for investigation.
That girl was frightened sick,
and she asked me to help her.
Which you know very well.
What have you got against her, anyway?
She entered the country illegally.
The authorities must do their duty,
and you will admit
they are not doing it unkindly.
Hmm.
What about the other people
on that plane?
Your permit expires
tomorrow night, Mr Benton.
I advise you as a friend
to conclude your business quickly,
and go home.
Thank you, Colonel.
That's just what I plan to do.
I'm glad to hear that,
for your sake.
I understand that
the head of our travel service
is going to see you
tomorrow again at eleven.
There will be a car to take you there,
and then back to Macao.
That's what I call
real oriental hospitality.
Well, if you don't mind,
I'd like to make it an early night.
Have a good night, Mr Benton.
Room service, please.
Can you send up a room boy?
Thanks.
If the gentleman in number 51
goes out tonight,
report to me by telephone.
I do not want him followed.
Understand?
Understand, sir.
(DOOR OPENING)
Jasmine tea, sir?
Water keep hot all night.
Do you serve Room 26?
Yes, sir.
Very nice European lady.
Gave me present.
Oh. Well, um...
here's another one for you.
Can you take her a message?
No can do, sir.
Lady gone away just now.
Gone? Gone where?
Very nice tea, sir.
Made special for gentleman.
Ah.
"They've taken me away to
the Street of the Willows. Lola."
DON:
Lola. Lola Sanchez.
She had seen them
gunning Jimmy in the water.
That was the evidence I needed
to clear his name.
Wherever she was, I had to find her
and, if possible, get her out.
(DIALLING PHONE)
"The Street of the Willows."
It was a lucky break
she'd had time to leave that note.
Or was it?
Kang had overheard
enough of our conversation
to guess why I'd come to Canton.
And what was his real interest
in detaining her?
The three fishes!
(CLANKING)
LOLA:
Hello.
I thought you'd lost courage.
Courage, hell!
I've never been
so scared in my life.
What is this place, anyhow?
Never mind. You're here.
I had to arrange about a getaway.
There's a boat waiting down at the waterfront.
- Come on, let's go.
- Not yet.
Well, what is it?
We must wait.
- For a few moments.
- Mmm.
I, um...
I wasn't sure before, but, er...
I know now.
You know what?
The reason you came to Canton.
You, the simple businessman,
who likes to mix business
with pleasure.
- That's me.
- Ah-ah.
You are strictly business.
- And not so simple, either.
- Mm-hmm
You came here to find out
what happened
to the missing plane,
and the people on it.
In particular, your courier.
Didn't take you long to find me.
You're the...
I never thought our people
could move so fast.
You must be one of our top agents.
Oh, well, I...
I wouldn't exactly say that.
Well, I can relieve your
main anxiety at once.
I've kept the message safe.
- You have?
- Mm-hmm.
- Well, where is it?
- Here. (CHUCKLING)
That's the way I work.
Never anything on paper.
You've heard of
photographic memories?
- Sure, sure.
- Well, it's not so very rare.
All I have to do
is look at a page.
Even if I don't understand
a word of it,
I can reproduce
every word and every dot.
I see.
- It's another one of your talents.
- Another?
Never mind. Erm...
do... do they know about this?
Yes. That's what's kept me safe.
They want it badly, but they know
it's no use threatening me.
Not even with torture?
In my case, they can't be sure
it wouldn't defeat their own purpose.
You see, if I die,
the information dies with me.
That's why they've been
using gentler methods.
That is, until now.
Now you're scared their
patience might be running out?
Well, not scared, just...
just weighing up
the possibilities.
It's a strange job for a girl,
working against her own country.
I've never had a country of my own.
Well, you're neither
Chinese nor American,
so there could hardly be
any patriotic motive.
There are others.
Anyway, why worry about motives?
I wouldn't change my life.
It has its compensations, you know.
Excitement...
danger...
(CHUCKLING)
You're a funny girl.
Why?
Because I like living dangerously?
That's when you really have
the taste of life.
In danger, my eyes, my ears,
all my senses become sharpened.
Every feeling
a hundred times intensified.
That's when I really come alive.
Then, to you, danger
is a kind of a drug?
Not to you?
All I've got to do
is look at you, and...
The wise man never arrives too early.
Or too late.
I'm sorry I broke that rule.
Don't apologise.
- After all, you are the host.
- The host?
And a host has
a duty to his guests.
Unfortunately, our business
is becoming a little urgent.
But, thanks to you,
my dear young lady,
we now know all we need to know
concerning Mr Benton's
purpose in Canton.
So one of our little problems
has already been solved.
Oh, I'm glad to hear that.
Er... do you mind
letting me in on the solution?
You're still acting the part,
my friend?
We are holding you
as a spy.
A spy by invitation.
You got me the permit, remember?
But you asked for it, remember?
Naturally, we're interested
to learn how much,
or how little, your superiors
know about that plane.
I hope you will be
sensible enough to tell us.
In which case,
we may let you go.
In time.
Generous as always, Kang.
My friend, you've played your cards.
Why not admit that
you've lost the game?
I would hate to be forced
into any unpleasantness.
And I also hate to do business
on an empty stomach.
As the sage says,
"where amity dwells,
agreement finds an open door."
As it happens, I must return
to Moscow early in the morning.
My plane leaves at seven,
so, before that ungodly hour,
we must reach agreement
on all outstanding matters.
Including our negotiations
with you, my dear.
And, if you'll forgive me,
to remark that they've dragged on
far too long already.
It takes two to make
a bargain, Mr Kang.
"The greedy cormorant
loses the best fish."
By the way, if Mr Benton's
presence embarrasses you,
he can easily be removed.
LOLA: No, I...
I prefer him to be present.
I'm sure he'd be very helpful.
I bow to the lady's wishes.
As you please.
Well, I've made my offer,
which is far above the original limit.
You have exactly half an hour
in which to accept.
And if I don't?
This is a very pleasant place.
Much more pleasant
than the corrective prison.
Oh, I'm sure you wouldn't
send me there, Mr Kang.
You're a very charming woman,
but you're expendable.
Like any human being.
Some aren't.
Not if they have the
right kind of insurance.
Insurance?
Mm-hmm.
I call it my vocational risk policy.
Very useful.
Very few policies apply
to earthquakes and tidal waves,
and, I can assure you,
our power is very similar.
I'm sure there's a dentist in Detroit
who'd be very interested to hear that.
What did you say?
Or the woman who runs
a dress shop in Dallas.
Or perhaps the used
car salesman in Seattle.
- Er... these people are...?
- A list of Mr Kang's friends in America.
It's a long list.
I know it by heart.
And the names
to fit the occupations.
I think you've said enough.
You've made it now
quite impossible for us
to ever let you go.
That would be very unfortunate.
For you, Mr Kang.
You see, the list is
not only in my head.
It is also neatly typed out,
in a safe deposit at the
Chase Bank in Washington.
And if I'm not back
in a week from tomorrow,
they have instructions
to call an unlisted number,
and someone will collect it.
Of course, you may be lying.
Mm-hmm.
But that's a risk
you dare not take.
Ah, don't look so glum, Mr Kang.
After all,
you're still in the bidding.
Bidding?
I wasn't aware there was
to be an auction.
Mmm, that's exactly what it is.
And thanks to you, for bringing
the principal bidders together.
You want that formula badly.
Mr Benton here, I'm sure,
doesn't want me to sell it to you.
After all, it took
a long time to develop.
It would be a pity if it, er...
became useless, just because
Mr Kang's friends wanted it too.
This is most irregular.
I like to do business
on my own condition.
Fair, of course,
but still my own conditions.
But the lady wants an auction.
So, she ought to have an auction.
In fairness, I must point out
a little flaw in your assumption.
What can any bid of yours
be worth?
To put it quite bluntly, you are
at a great disadvantage, Mr Benton.
You're not a free agent.
That's easily arranged.
I'm sure that Miss Sanchez
will be willing to extend
her vocational risk policy
to cover me too.
- You will, ma'am, won't you?
- Certainly.
If you're the buyer.
I hope it'll encourage you
to bid high.
Of course, it, um...
would make things easier if, er...
Mr Kang's bid won.
But it's really a matter
of indifference to me.
Indifference?
Well...
almost.
I'd be sorry to leave you
in an unpleasant situation. I...
I rather like you.
But one can't afford
personal feelings in our profession.
And you are a professional, my dear.
- We can both appreciate that. Can't we?
- Hmm.
Sour!
But dealing with a double agent
can be very trying.
They are so mercenary.
But, what can one do?
Suppose we add the little matter of
twenty per cent to the original offer?
I think I ought to know
what the original offer is.
Otherwise, how can I bid?
Certainly.
Mr Kang has just bid
a hundred and fifty thousand dollars.
I did not.
It was a hundred and twenty.
I think I can do
a little bit better than that. Erm...
a hundred and sixty.
Cash.
Did I hear a hundred and sixty?
I repeat:
one hundred and sixty.
No more?
Is that the final offer?
Going...
going...
(LOUD BANG)
(FIREWORKS AND FIRECRACKERS)
(KANG LAUGHING)
It is nothing.
Just the sparrows.
(HEAVY THUD)
- Now's our chance.
- Oh, no. The auction isn't over yet.
(GUNSHOT)
(GUN FALLING TO FLOOR)
You're coming with me.
You won't have a chance
to sell that information now.
You fool.
You think you can drag me away?
You'll be lucky to
get away alone.
You've no choice.
Your fingerprints are on that gun.
If they find you here with that...
Come on, let's go.
(CROWD SHOUTING)
Come on.
KANG: (GROANING)
Get them.
(GUNSHOTS)
(CROWD JANGLING BELLS)
(WHISTLES BLOWING)
(FIRECRACKERS BANGING)
(SPEAKING CHINESE)
(MULTIPLE GUNSHOTS)
This way.
(BODYGUARD SHOUTING)
(GUNSHOT)
(GUNSHOT)
Come on, we'd better go.
Don...
Don...
danger...
danger's when...
one really comes alive.
HAN PO:
Mr Benton?
Mr Benton, boat ready.
We carry her?
No matter.
One man can go more quickly.
Come, come.
(SHIP'S HORN BLOWING)
What kept you so long?
Mr Benton, I came as soon as
my girl gave me the message.
- Did you get that boarding pass?
- Yes, it's here.
I'm sorry, I would have
been here to meet you,
only you arrived sooner
than I expected.
I left Canton in a bit of a hurry,
on the sampan express.
Did you find what
you were looking for?
- Yeah.
- Good.
And then some.
Oh, then I... I think you'd better
get straight in your cabin.
Mr Pereira, what is there about me
that seems to make you so nervous?
Oh, it's nothing, it's nothing.
It's just that the boat
is ready to sail.
Every time I arrive here in Macao,
you seem to be pushing me
aboard a steamer.
Mr Benton, I have worked for you
for two years now.
Now, during that time,
you have appeared here in Macao
on numerous occasions.
Now, none of these could be called,
not even by the farthest stretch
of the imagination,
routine visits.
Something always happens,
and I am always the one
left in the middle!
Oh, which reminds me. There's a girl
shot on the dock at Canton.
- You see what I mean?
- I'd appreciate it if you'd make
- the necessary arrangements.
- Yes, but, Mr...
Passport?
Oh, I doubt it. She kept
everything in her head.
What?
She's what you might call
a citizen of the world.
Mr Benton, you know it's
impossible to get into Canton...
Mr Pereira, you're
in the travel business.
Inventiveness: that's the
symbol of our firm.
Yes, but Canton is not one of...
I...
Earn your money, Mr Pereira.
Very good, sir.
Be seeing you.
I shall look forward to it.
(CHATTERING)
Prison not make Jimmy fat.
Swee Lim, you look see
he eat plenty big dinner.
Anyone would think
I'd spent weeks there.
Four days. Too much.
But it was for
his own safety, ma'am,
until Mr Benton found Miss Sanchez,
and confirmed his version of the truth.
Such a beautiful girl!
You look for beautiful girls
in Hong Kong.
All the same your sister.
You hear that, Tai Ko?
Well, I hate to leave
the family celebrations, but...
duty hours, you know.
Well, good luck, Jimmy,
and don't get involved
in any more incidents.
Other people don't know you
as we do.
Inspector must have more.
Number one dish coming up.
Canton duck, Bill.
Tai Tai's speciality.
You've got to try it.
Not me. Swee Kim make.
She very good cook.
Tai Ko, the best damn
travel agent in Hong Kong.
Yum seng.
ALL:
Yum seng, Tai Ko!
I'll be back for lunch.
If you need me, you can
call me at Sir Charles' house.
The train, Tai Ko!
Good morning, Mr Benton.
Is this your office, Mr Orme?
No, no, just up one minute
and down the next.
Anyway, I'm glad to have this chance
to thank you for your help
in solving the Lola Sanchez case.
I thought I was helping
with the Jimmy Mao case.
You might like to know that
the list she left behind
as her insurance policy has caused
quite a stir in Washington.
Hmm. That insurance
had quite a premium.
You know, I wish you'd
reconsider my offer.
We need an undercover man here.
Uh-uh. It's a quiet life
for me these days.
Well, think it over.
Anyway, I hope to see you again soon.
(CHUCKLING)
Oh, no, you won't!
Well, anyway, not...
not too soon.
SUBTITLES BY POWERHOUSE FILMS LTD
my home since the end of World War II.
I have a neon sign hanging
in the heart of this international city
that says "Don Benton,
Travel Agency".
Don Benton, that's my name.
And the travel agency?
That's my business.
And into this modest
establishment of mine
flock all the ingredients
of civilisation,
from royalty to impostors,
from the cream of society
to the dregs of the gutters.
And Hong Kong makes room for them all,
and that makes it just about
the most exciting city in the world.
From the luxury villas on the peak
down to the narrow streets
off the waterfront,
the place is a hive,
humming with human energy.
Three million people jostle together
on a rock off the
mainland of Red China,
every one engaged
in a fierce personal pursuit.
Of what?
Food, money, pleasure, love...
maybe even a little information.
And for me, Hong Kong's a city
where my wartime know-how
earns me a buck or two.
My travel agency will land you
with speed, courtesy and comfort,
at any place in South East Asia,
so long as its rulers don't
happen to dislike your face, or, er...
or your politics.
These days, some of them
can be kind of choosy.
Miss? Is Mr Benton in?
- No. In soon.
- Okay, I'll wait.
WOMAN #1: Don't they want
tourists in Indonesia?
All those forms and photographs.
We've put them in,
we've paid the fees.
- And what fees! Anybody would think...
- It is the consulate, madam.
They say very sorry, cannot issue visas
until you have airline tickets.
Say, do you mean to say that
you haven't got the tickets either?
Airline says, very sorry,
cannot issue tickets without visas.
- Very difficult for us, madam.
- WOMAN #1: Difficult for you?
- SWEE KIM: Please, madam...
- WOMAN #1: Oh, good morning, Mr Benton.
Hello. Everything all right?
Sure, except for your friends
in the Indonesian consulate.
- We planned to leave today.
- Oh, visa trouble, eh?
Well, it's a little difficult
to rush these people.
Rush? It's been three weeks.
Well, these young republics,
I'm afraid they're apt to
wear their brand new independence
like a brand new suit.
I guess we were pretty much the same
in Washington a couple of hundred years ago.
- Yes, but we weren't on vacation then.
- Mmm.
Er... Swee Kim, call in Hussein.
He's one of our drivers.
He's an Indonesian
with relatives in the consulate.
I'm sure if you send him back in
with a little present, er...
about twenty dollars ought to do it,
you'll have your visas back
within an hour.
(CHUCKLING)
Oh, thank you. Thank you very much.
Could I speak to you
in private, Mr Benton?
- About a tour?
- Well, could be.
Something a little
off the beaten track.
Well, sure.
Have a seat.
"Chungking, 1938."
Tough enemy, the Japs.
Mmm, very.
In those days, flying was still fun.
At least we flew aircraft,
not electronic computers.
"From Chula of Thai
to a good friend of the country."
The Prince seems to
regard you as a hero.
I was able to advise him
on his jade collection.
Now, just what
can I do for you, Mr, um...?
Johnson. Sam Johnson.
Ah, yes.
You came in via Manila.
I see you keep an eye
on the arrivals.
Well, travel is our business,
Mr Johnson.
- Besides, we have an office there.
- And good connections elsewhere, I'm told.
We manage to cover
most of the ports out here.
No, I meant personal connections.
Weren't you a friend of Lee Huan Ho,
the scholar, up in Shanghai?
Well, don't hold that
against the poor man. He's dead.
Yeah. I gather he wasn't very happy
under the new régime.
And Father Rodriguez,
who had the mission at Amoy.
Just how do you happen
to know all this?
Oh, through mutual friends.
To be frank,
I've heard a lot about you.
You've been in China
a long time, Mr Benton.
You flew with
General Chennault's Flying Tigers,
ferrying munitions and food
for the Chinese.
In our war, you fought
the Japs again in the Pacific.
You speak Cantonese
and, I believe, Malay.
Your knowledge of the Chinese
and their customs is,
shall we say, unusual?
Suppose we cut the build-up,
Mr Johnson?
Just what are you trying
to sell me?
Well, let's say an idea
that you should meet a friend of mine.
- Someone who wants your help.
- (KNOCKING)
Tai Ko. Man shui.
To chieh nei Swee Kim.
But I'm busy now.
When feet's happy,
mind calm for contemplation.
(CHUCKLING)
This is my sister.
- Oh?
- It seems it's my birthday.
I'm commanded to live
ten thousand years.
- Sure.
- SWEE KIM: You like?
DON: Yes, Swee Kim.
I like them very much.
Now, leave the tea things
and run along. I've a visitor.
- Cheng yum cha?
- Oh, thanks.
It's a little Chinese custom.
You don't have to drink it.
You were saying?
I was speaking about my friend.
Ah, yes, the, er...
the guy that wants to meet me.
Well, why doesn't he come here?
Well, it's a very confidential matter,
Mr Benton.
He felt it would be better
discussed elsewhere.
But first he wanted confirmation
of a few small facts.
Oh, he does, does he?
Well, I'll confirm a few
for him right now.
I'm a travel agent, and my business
isn't so darned confidential
- that it can't be talked out loud.
- (BUZZER)
- Good morning, Mr Johnson.
- (DOOR OPENING)
(DOOR CLOSING)
- Tai Ko, man shui.
- Oh, thank you, Swee Lim.
Another sister?
This gentleman was just leaving.
Sir Arthur Cragg has called, Tai Ko.
He wants to see you about his reservation
for his holiday in the Philippines.
Oh, well, er...
call him back and tell him
I'll bring the schedule myself.
I'll, er... be on
the next train for the peak.
- You still here, Mr Johnson?
- I'm on my way.
But you'll hear from us again.
Probably from my chief, Mr Orme.
And, er... I'll need a car.
(LAUGHING)
Tai Ko, your shoe!
(BOTH LAUGHING)
DON: My business with Sir Arthur
took me to his villa on the peak,
where the homes of the rich Taipans
command one of the finest views in Asia.
It had been a pleasant break
from the heat and bustle of the port,
and I was sorry to have to return.
Hello. The air's so good
up here at the peak,
it seems a shame to have to
go down to the city, you know.
Oh, yes.
Oh, excuse me.
That's a fine view, Mr Benton.
Finest in the world.
Er... have we met before?
No, not in the flesh,
but Orme's the name.
Charles Orme, of Washington DC.
Oh. I see.
Yeah, I thought you would.
Have you read this morning's paper?
"Mystery of missing Formosan plane."
- I've read it.
- Interesting bit of news.
- To some, maybe.
- (CHUCKLING) Oh, to lots of people.
And most certainly to us.
Us?
Well, er... shall we say, to a certain
department of the US Government?
You can guess why.
I'm a punk guesser, Mr Orme.
Well, strictly between ourselves,
we're concerned about this missing plane.
Why? Isn't that more a matter for
the nationalist Chinese in Formosa?
Oh, it concerns us, too.
That's why I'm so happy to meet you.
I don't get you, Mr Orme.
- Well, I believe you can help us.
- How?
There's someone aboard that plane
whose safety is, er...
well, important to the West.
All I know is
what everybody else knows.
There was a typhoon,
and radio contact was lost,
just before the plane disappeared.
It was off course.
Last indications were
that it was heading for Canton.
It may have landed on the mainland.
Have you tried to contact
the airport in Canton?
Hong Kong's been calling them
ever since the plane was reported overdue.
A sheer waste of time.
- Especially if the, er...
- If it was forced down.
Mm-hmm.
Well, why do you come to me?
Because you have contacts, Mr Benton.
Contacts in many places.
- Perhaps even in Canton.
- Oh.
You mean, er...
undercover work, hmm?
Sorry, I leave that to the authorities.
Mr Orme, I'm a businessman.
I can't get involved in
anything political,
anything that might prejudice
my relations with the Communist government,
such as they are.
It's our country's interests
we're discussing, Mr Benton.
Hong Kong is my home.
I can't afford to endanger
the position I've built up here.
- Tai Ko. Cho chei.
- Cho chei ah yik.
(CHUCKLING)
I'd offer you a lift,
but the family requires my presence.
- The family?
- Yeah. His family, and mine.
DON:
I wasn't kidding, either.
It was a Chinese family
I'd come to know and love
during the war against
the Japanese.
In those bad old days,
we helped each other many times.
Now, they called me "son",
and in their family affairs,
I was as much involved as in my own.
- (SUDDEN NOISE)
- (CHUCKLING)
How're you doing, old boy, huh?
(CHUCKLING)
Here, sit over here.
And here's your rations, okay?
- Tai Ko!
- Oh, hi, darling!
How are you, huh? Huh?
Hard at it?
What's all this now, hmm?
"The brain.
The seat of the intellect."
Grandmother doesn't agree.
She says the seat of the intellect
is in the stomach.
She's a wise woman.
Where is she?
In the garden, waiting for you.
(BIRDS CHIRPING)
Morning, Mother.
You wanted to talk with me?
- Man sui sing shang.
- (CHUCKLING)
Even the servants won't let me
forget I'm a year older today.
Another year more foolish.
Still without a son.
You mean without a wife
to give me a son.
Did you send for me
to tell me that again?
No.
You will know something about
flying ship that lost its way?
Oh, the Formosan plane?
No, none of my passengers
were aboard.
Passengers!
You think of passengers!
What about your brother?
Jimmy?
Was he the pilot?
Last night sampan man come in
with message from river people.
Jimmy's fly-ship down
near Chinan Fu.
Oh.
Well, then Johnson was right.
That island's way up the estuary
near Canton. That's Red territory.
Is Jimmy safe?
Message come from Jimmy.
He say river people pick him up,
hiding him in hut outside fishing village.
Mm-hmm. And the others?
No can tell. Nobody open mouth.
Well, he's among friends.
But they'll need money.
They'll probably try to smuggle him
aboard a junk to get him out.
Money no good.
Junk people plenty scared.
Too many boats in river.
Gunboats and patrols.
I know.
And if they're caught with
a Formosan officer aboard...
Gunboats, no gunboats,
must get Jimmy home.
Yes, we must. But how?
You fix it.
I fix it?
Just have the office write him
out a ticket, just like that, huh?
Somebody must go.
Yes. Somebody.
Not you, Tai Ko. You do too much
for us too many times already.
Now look, Tai Tai. A long time ago,
when a certain crazy flier was in trouble,
who was it took him in and fed him?
Who risked their lives to hide him
from the Japanese? Remember?
Long time ago. Bad time.
Best be forgotten.
Not by me, old mother.
That sampan man, where is he?
In kitchen sleeping.
Last night he come.
I give him pork and rice.
Him very sick at stomach.
Poor devil. He needed it, I guess.
Well, give him some more, because
I'm going to need him and his boat.
Don't worry, Mother.
I'll... I'll bring Jimmy home.
Take care.
I don't want to lose two sons.
Good sailing weather, Mr Benton.
I think we'll be there
in about five hours.
That means we'll get home
early morning, huh?
- Think so.
- Good.
(MOTOR CHUGGING)
(INSECTS CHIRRUPING)
(DISTANT SHOUTING)
(MOTOR SHUTTING OFF)
(SHOUTING)
(WOMAN LAUGHING)
Oh!
(GIGGLING)
(MOTOR CHUGGING)
- Chinan Fu?
- Hai, Chinan Fu.
Stop engines.
(DISTINCTIVE WHISTLE)
(WHISTLING)
Tai Ko!
Wait there!
Don! Don!
Quick, the engines!
Don!
(GUNSHOTS)
Come on, Jimmy.
This side.
(GUNSHOTS)
- Here, Jimmy. All right?
- Pretty good.
Ah Hong, let's get out of here.
Sure I was decoyed.
The radio bearing I received
showed me dead on course
for Hong Kong, ninety miles south.
And there I was, over Canton.
Next thing I knew, two MiGs
were on my tail, ordering me to land.
Why didn't you?
(CHUCKLING)
Maybe I was annoyed.
Anyway, I saw some low cloud
over the estuary, and dived for it.
Thought I'd made it, too,
but they'd knocked out my port engine.
Had to make a belly landing
on the water.
Anybody hurt?
No, don't think so.
And before you could say "Reds",
the place was thick with launches.
Waiting, I expect.
They took everybody off,
only three passengers and the crew,
and sank the plane.
I saw it.
Who were the passengers?
Two men and a woman.
- American?
- Mmm, one of the men, I think.
Where were you?
In the drink. Soon as I saw what
they were up to, I went overboard.
They... didn't they see you?
Sure. Kissed me goodbye, too,
with a drum of tracer bullets.
I dived again.
I swam for what seemed like hours.
In the end, I got tangled
in a fishing net.
It belonged to the old man
from Chinan Fu.
They brought me to the island,
and hid me in that deserted hut.
- They're brave people in that village.
- Yes.
Well, you'd better try
to get some sleep.
We'll be in
in the early morning.
(SHIP'S HORN)
For Ah Hong.
He deserves it.
Good to see Hong Kong again.
- See, when this story gets around...
- It mustn't get around.
Not till we know what
the authorities have to say.
I'll contact your HQ in Formosa.
Meantime, better not talk to anyone.
Better for whom?
Better for all concerned,
including you.
I'm taking you straight home.
(CHILDREN LAUGHING)
Jimmy! Hello, Jimmy!
Thank you, Tai Ko.
For taking Jimmy
on a fishing trip?
Oh. Well, what has Tai Tai
told you?
Nothing.
But when you had left,
Swee Lim and I saw her
burning joss sticks to Kwan Yin,
praying for her sons.
So all night, we prayed too,
for our brothers.
Thank you, Swee Kim.
I guess she must have heard you.
Goddess of mercy always hears.
One day you will see,
when your wife asks her for a son.
Well, she'll have to provide me
with a wife first, Swee Kim.
Perhaps I ask her that, too.
Tai Ko, Tai Ko,
come and play with us.
Well, here we are, Mother.
Safe and sound, and very hungry.
MAO:
Good.
Sorry to give you
too much worry, Grandmother.
Better say sorry to Tai Ko.
Yes, Grandmother.
Come here.
Jimmy, you been in trouble?
Plenty trouble, until Tai Ko
came to find me.
Not that.
I mean deep trouble
No. Is anything the matter?
Soon we'll see.
Oh, hello, Inspector.
Come to join the family reunion?
I'm afraid not, Mr Benton.
I'm here on official business.
With this man.
Just arrived in Hong Kong?
- Sure. Landed from a...
- Sampan, early this morning?
Well, of course he did.
He came with me.
I'm sorry, Mr Benton.
Leave this to me, please.
- What is your name?
- Mao Chi Mei. Jimmy to my friends.
Captain,
Chinese Nationalist Air Force.
Any papers?
Something to identify yourself?
I can identify him.
I've known him ever since he was...
Mr Benton, please.
Well?
No, I haven't. I crash-landed
in the estuary two nights ago.
Everything I had is at
the bottom of the river.
Then I'm afraid you'll
have to come with me.
This is ridiculous.
All you've got to do is call up
Air Control, and they'll verify the...
We know that, Mr Benton.
I shouldn't try to interfere,
if I were you.
Come on, young man.
Okay, okay, I'll come.
This is a damn fool silly mistake.
No hurry, please.
They come long way,
no food yet in belly.
Very good roast duck in oven.
Plenty for Inspector, too.
It's no use, Tai Tai.
He has to go.
Police all same.
Just like...
Ah, now, now, Mother,
don't worry.
I... I'll get these things changed, and
go down and see what I can do about it.
Must eat first. Flowers of wisdom
spring from well-filled stomach.
Yeah, but an empty belly
sharpens the tongue.
(CHATTERING)
What's going on in here, Taylor?
Didn't take you long
to get here, Mr Benton.
No, it didn't take me
long to get here,
but you kept me waiting
long enough.
I'm sorry.
What can I do for you?
Hmm! You know very well
what you can do for me.
Release Jimmy Mao.
Where's the Superintendent?
ORME:
One moment, Mr Benton.
You told me only yesterday
that you didn't want to become
involved in matters of this kind.
So perhaps it might be better
if you just stayed uninvolved.
Well, when you approached me,
I didn't know
that Jimmy Mao was
the pilot of that plane.
That makes a difference?
I've known him and his family
for many years,
and so have most of
the members of your police force.
Any case, you can't hold him
without a definite charge.
Quite true. There is a charge.
Of what?
Opium smuggling.
Jimmy Mao an opium smuggler?
That's a darned fool suggestion,
and you know it.
What are you trying
to pin on him?
We've arrested Mao
for his own protection.
If his story checks, then it's essential
the Reds don't learn of his escape.
Well, you've picked the
quickest way to tell them.
We think not.
No-one would connect Huan Ling Foo,
held for a smuggling offence,
with the Nationalist pilot,
Captain Mao.
I came to tell you that, if
Mao was not released immediately,
I was going to hire the best lawyer
in Hong Kong to defend him.
But, before I decide
to play it your way,
perhaps you'll tell me
what's behind all this.
I brought him out, remember?
I think you can rely on
Mr Benton's discretion, Mr Orme.
Thank you, Inspector.
You know that we had
a courier aboard that plane
carrying information
important to the West.
Indeed, in a certain field,
vitally important.
What field are we in?
Shall we say "scientific"?
Now you'll understand why
it's essential that we find out
what happened to that courier.
TAYLOR:
And how it happened.
Jimmy says he was decoyed.
Do you think he was lying?
Lying or not, the indications are
that the other side knew
what that plane was carrying.
And, if the operation
was planned ahead,
it suggests a further possibility.
Connivance by the pilot.
Oh, Jimmy wouldn't work
with the Reds.
TAYLOR: I hope you're right.
Meanwhile, as you'll appreciate,
he's safer in custody.
All right.
I won't fight it. Yet.
Erm... you wanted me to help you.
Thanks, Benton,
but everything's under control.
The Service is pursuing
its own investigations.
Hmm. In that case...
- You realise, of course, that...
- Oh, don't worry.
I'll keep my mouth shut.
Tai Ko. Tai Tai.
(DOOR LATCH CLICKING)
Not good.
You see Jimmy?
No.
And you're not to try to
see him either, till I tell you.
Police all same.
Make big trouble
because Jimmy had accident.
Well, some people think
maybe it wasn't an accident.
Not the police.
The Superintendent's on our side.
You give him present?
Maybe he want more?
- No matter.
- (CHUCKLING) No, Mother, no.
Nobody wants a present.
They... they want proof.
- (BUZZER)
- And proof is somewhere up that river.
So?
Oh, Swee Kim,
I'm leaving for the mainland.
Not Canton?
No, no, the doorstep to Canton.
Otherwise, a routine visit
to our office in Macao.
Wire Pereira to meet me at the boats.
Hong Kong... Macao...
Canton.
To clear Jimmy's name, I had to
find out what had really happened
to the missing plane,
and bring back proof of Jimmy's story.
So, that afternoon, I crossed
by the Tong Shan
to the Portuguese territory of Macao,
a useful listening post
on the edge of the Bamboo Curtain.
Mr Benton!
I'm sorry to keep you waiting,
Mr Benton.
We've got a rush of tourists
on our hands just now.
Don't apologise for that.
We need them!
- Did you understand my wire?
- Yes, sir, and I got busy right away.
Don Benton. Okay.
But, er... nobody here seems to know
anything about the missing plane.
The... the Portuguese authorities say
that none of our nationals
was travelling on board,
so they're not interested.
But it is very sad about the pilot.
What about him?
Well, I remember that he was
a friend of yours.
It is suggested that
the plane was lost,
with all its occupants,
in the typhoon.
Well, I have reason to
believe that it wasn't.
- You, um... tried the river people?
- Yes, sir.
The sampan men that we hire
for our tourist trips.
One of them seems to have
heard some kind of rumour.
He's on the wharf now.
- Reliable?
- Well, as a boatman, yes.
When he chooses to turn up.
I believe he does
a little smuggling on the side.
But he says he knows
the pilot's mother.
- Mao Tai Tai?
- Mmm.
- I'd like to talk to him.
- Ah Wing!
Ah Wing.
- Mr Benton.
- How do?
Hello, Ah Wing.
So you're a friend of M...
Mao Tai Tai?
Hai.
Your licence, Ah Wing.
Better make a show of hiring him.
Do you know, er...
many places around here?
Hai. Macao, Canton, Pearl River...
Chinan Fu.
You've heard something
about Chinan Fu?
Three days ago, plenty fog.
Fishermen hear sound like fly-ship,
very low on water.
Then noise finish.
Make like fly-ship finish too.
Thanks.
Maybe you'll work for me sometime.
Is... is that the
information you wanted?
- It checks.
- Well, that's fine.
Now you will have time to
dine with me before you leave.
Before what?
Well, the... the Tong Shan
sails at seven.
Of course, if you prefer
to get the night boat...
Mr Pereira, are you trying
to get rid of me?
Oh, by no means, Mr Benton.
Only...
What's on your mind?
Well, until I knew
the nature of your enquiries,
it didn't seem very important,
but, er...
Ivano Kang is here.
Ivano Kang!
He arrived in Canton yesterday,
from Moscow.
Now, a man in his position doesn't fly
5,000 miles for nothing, Mr Benton.
No. No, he doesn't.
And he was seen in Macao last night,
at the gambling casino.
Well, maybe he just wants
a little action at the tables.
Do you think he'll come again?
Of course he will.
It's only an hour or so by car.
Now, Macao is, shall we say, neutral
territory, but frankly, Mr Benton...
You think it might be dangerous
for me to stay here?
Mr Benton, it is dangerous for anyone
who shows so much interest
in the happenings along the estuary.
Now, you know me, Mr Benton.
If there's anything I can do for you...
Well, thanks, Pereira.
You can take me home,
and ask your charming wife
to let me have a room.
You... you're staying?
I think I might like
some action at the tables myself.
(TRAFFIC PASSING)
(CHATTERING)
Mr Benton!
Long time no see.
Hi, Liang Ti!
I've been too busy
sending you rich tourists.
So now you come yourself,
with pockets full of dollars
to lose at the tables.
Well, there is one here
named Jasmine Bud. A darling.
- Hmm?
- No?
Merely to see old friends?
Well, to see one old friend,
Liang Ti.
I never thought that words alone
could make me so happy, Don.
Even if I know they're not true.
Have I ever lied to you, Liang Ti?
Are you in trouble, Don?
No, it's... it's for a friend
of yours and mine.
I'm, er... trying to find out
what happened to a certain plane.
- The one that disappeared?
- Mmm.
Well, what makes you think
I know anything about it?
You have many visitors from Canton.
Well, there is one,
but I don't think...
Miss Liang Ti, somebody
want change more money.
Later. Amuse yourself, Don.
Oh, excuse me.
Who's in there?
(SPEAKING RUSSIAN)
Liang Ti say maybe you like
something to drink.
Brandy? Champagne?
Oh, just bring me
a cold bottle of beer.
You play. I come back to you.
Good girl.
Stick around, and bring me luck.
(INAUDIBLE)
Thank you, honey.
Hey!
(GROANING)
(SHOUTING IN RUSSIAN)
- (FOOTSTEPS RECEDING)
- (DOOR CLOSING)
(KANG CHUCKLING)
Well, well, well,
my old friend, Mr Benton!
And, like all Americans,
in a hurry.
Colonel Kang.
I'm sorry to crash in like this,
but the...
somebody outside is just
a little bit touchy.
- Maybe it was me.
- No, Mr Benton. Not you, I'm sure.
But now that you're here,
why don't you stay for a while,
and forget those troublemakers?
Thanks, but I don't want to
muscle in on your little party.
Good wine is something
to be shared between friends.
So are lovely women.
Consuela...
Peach Blossom...
Tanya.
Tanya...
or Kuma San.
If any of them stirs your fancy...
Well, how can one choose
from so much loveliness?
Perhaps something a little stronger
will help you to decide.
I'm conservative, myself.
I stick to the best mixture
in the world.
Champagne...
- vodka...
- And Sam Shui.
(CHUCKLING)
You remember, eh?
I could hardly forget that!
You persuaded me
to try it one time.
Um... no, no,
this time I think I'll, um...
I'll stick to beer.
So you are here for a vacation?
Unofficially,
it's business, but, er...
one wants a little
relaxation sometimes.
How I agree with you.
I find it a great relief to escape
to the bright lights of Macao.
In these days, Moscow and Peking
have a certain puritanical austerity.
And rightly so, but in time it can
become a little, er...
stifling.
How's the travel business?
Thriving, I hope?
Well, it'd thrive a lot more
if I could book my visitors to China.
But naturally. You should visit Canton
and talk to the authorities about it.
(CHUCKLING)
Are you kidding?
I've been trying for years,
and I still haven't got a visa.
Evidently, you don't approach
the right people.
I'll see what I can do.
(INAUDIBLE)
Kong-mi-ye?
Well, Mr Benton, if you'll
excuse me for a while,
merely to repose for a little,
in a more secluded spot.
- (GIRLS GIGGLING)
- This travelling. So tiring.
Colonel Kang.
I'll see you in Canton.
Mmm.
DON:
Kang kept his word, and fast.
Early next morning, a messenger
was waiting at my Macao office
with a visa to Canton.
I took the next boat,
and, very shortly,
was registering at the hotel.
CLERK:
Welcome to New China, Mr Benton.
Un sop yat.
Number 51 is reserved for you, sir.
Very nice room facing the front.
Reserved?
Hmm, somebody's been very kind.
With the compliments of
China Travel Service, sir,
hoping you will enjoy a happy
and instructive visit to Canton.
I hope so, too.
Anything else?
Yes, sir. The director himself
has telephoned about an interview.
If convenient to you, he'll
send a car at four o'clock.
You like to see your room now?
No, I think I'll take
a little stroll for a while.
Oh, er... am I
supposed to take a guide?
Oh, no, sir.
You can go anywhere you like.
No-one is ever lost in Canton.
I see what you mean.
Can you tell me where I can
pick up a souvenir or two?
What you like, sir?
Very nice Canton silk?
No, no, er...
maybe some porcelain.
Go to the streets of the potters, sir.
Plenty shops there, all together.
Thanks.
(INAUDIBLE CONVERSATION)
DON: The street of the
potters wasn't hard to find,
but what I was after was
the shop of one Han Po.
My friend Liang Ti, head girl
at the Macao gambling casino,
had given me his name
as a man whom I could trust.
(SPEAKING CHINESE)
Oh.
All the best periods:
Ming, Kang Hai...
Poor copies of the masters,
as you see.
If any of them
interest the gentleman?
Well, this one interests me
very much.
That one?
Perhaps a little less
imperfect than the others.
Imperfect?
This is the real thing.
The secret of that glaze was lost
five hundred years ago.
(FOOTSTEPS)
(SPEAKING CHINESE)
You're right. It's, er...
it's a very excellent copy.
For a minute, I was taken in.
I'm looking for something, um...
a little unusual.
Something unusual?
Perhaps I can show you
something in here?
One of these, perhaps?
An unworthy attempt
in the style of Sung.
That's fine work, Han Po.
Anyone would be deceived.
Not you.
The Ming did not deceive you.
Is it so dangerous, then,
to own a piece like that?
Not dangerous, but unwise.
In these days,
things of a certain value...
You would not understand, Sin Shang.
- A craftsman needs...
- I know, I know.
I love the old things, too.
Why does a man of knowledge
come to me, an imitator?
I was sent here by a friend,
a woman named Liang Ti.
One of my clan.
What does she know of pottery?
Not much, but she knows men.
She spoke of one
that I might find here.
What man?
One whose heart is like
the things he fashions.
I need your help, Han Po.
Sin Shang,
this city lives on whispers,
all of spies.
Spies on the land,
and in the sky.
Three nights ago, some were
captured and brought here.
Is anything known about them?
Only that three were foreigners.
Do you know where they are now?
Where?
If the gentleman will
return in two days' time,
it will be glazed,
ready to take away.
Two days?
Why not tomorrow?
Tomorrow, every shop must close,
until the massacre is ended.
The...?
Wh... what massacre?
Tonight is the Night of the Sparrows.
The Night of...
For the present,
all that I can do.
But I think it is what
the gentleman is looking for.
Mr Benton.
Talk plenty business with the
director of the travel bureau?
Ah, the director talked plenty, period.
Maybe we'll get down to
business tomorrow.
Huh? What's all this?
"Cultural Association",
"Agricultural Cooperative",
"Economic Study Group"...
With the compliments of
the information officer, sir.
Makes good bedside reading.
Thanks, er...
Nothing like a little fun in bed.
Mr Benton?
Ma'am, you're in the wrong room.
No, I'm not.
I took great care
to find the right one.
Well, that's mighty kind of you,
but, er...
I've had a long day.
I didn't think you were a fool.
But, er...
perhaps you're on their side?
Whose side?
Oh, you mean those guys you were
doing the conga with in the hall today.
I was trying to speak to you.
So when that failed, you slipped
a buck to the house-boy,
and he gave you my name
and room number. Is that right?
Wrong. It cost me ten.
Well, I'm flattered.
But I hate to see good money wasted.
Was it?
Well, it, um...
it depends on what you want.
I could tell you, if you'd stop
wandering round the room like that.
Lady, I was going to bed.
Don't worry. You'll be there
quite soon. I promise.
You could try and be polite.
All right.
- That better?
- Much better.
Don Benton, American.
Mind if I call you Don?
Ma'am, you can call me
anything you like.
Why did you come to Canton?
To see the Chinese.
Sorry to disappoint you, ma'am.
I just thought if, um...
you'd been someone official,
you might have been able to help me.
I'm, er...
strictly a private citizen,
but if there's anything a
simple businessman can do, I...
- I'd like to try.
- On strictly business grounds, of course.
Might even mix in
a little pleasure,
if I knew what the score was.
You were on that plane, weren't you?
Yeah.
Wasn't a joy ride, either.
When we crashed, I...
I thought we'd drown.
- But they came and took us off.
- Us? Where are the others?
I don't know.
They keep us apart.
They remember I'm a woman.
- You don't say.
- Oh, it didn't stop them searching me.
Then began the questioning.
Hours and hours of it.
Perfect little gentlemen,
but they never let up.
It's been three days now.
I don't know what they want from me.
Well, maybe they don't
know themselves.
Are you under arrest?
Not officially,
but I can't leave the hotel.
I've, um...
heard of people being kept
for months. Even years.
Sometimes, they just disappear.
There must be something
you can do for me.
Ma'am, I'm not a man to let down
a lady in distress, but, er...
there's six hundred million people
out there, and I'm just one guy.
Maybe when I get back to Hong Kong,
I can get in touch with your consul, or...
Or call up the Marines.
Thanks a lot.
Have you tried to
contact any of the others?
How could I?
I haven't seen any of them
since they took us ashore.
Everyone?
All except the pilot.
He tried to escape.
They fired machine guns
at him in the water.
Poor kid.
He never had a chance.
You saw that?
You could testify to it?
Well, sure,
once we get out of here.
Does the design of three fishes
mean anything to you?
Oh, you know about that?
Yes, it's the name of the house
they first took me to.
Brainwashing de luxe.
But, er...
aren't we sort of getting off the...
(KNOCKING)
Which way d'you come?
The balcony?
Yes, Room 26.
- I'll talk to you later.
- Right.
Oh, what's...
what's your name?
- Lola.
- Lola.
Lola Sanchez.
(KNOCKING)
Ah, Mr Benton. How delightful
to see you in Canton.
Won't you ask me to come in?
Don't tell me you need
an invitation.
(DISTANT SINGING)
(SINGING AND JANGLING)
Come here, Mr Benton.
This is something you
must not miss.
Well, what is it?
The spirit of New China.
Nothing will stand in its way.
No man or creature, however small.
- Not even sparrows?
- Sparrows?
Maybe you share the usual capitalist
sentimentality about small animals?
I've no strong feeling either way.
You know that the sparrow eats
nine catties of grain a year?
That much?
Enough to feed a family of six
for weeks.
You don't say.
Tonight in Canton,
there are a million sparrows.
Tomorrow, there will be not one.
Well, what are you going to do?
Send them to the salt mines?
A sparrow can only stay in the air
for two hours without alighting.
At a given signal,
they will be forced into flight,
and will be kept flying
until they fall, exhausted.
The rest is merely
a problem of sanitation.
"The massacre of the sparrows."
The organised elimination
of a greedy pest, Mr Benton.
You'll see the fabulous discipline
of a whole city.
Every man, woman and child
will be out on the streets
with drums, gongs,
rattles, firecrackers,
anything that will make a noise.
Well, maybe some of them
like sparrows?
The people of China
have attained wisdom.
Their sense of duty
overrules individual preference.
Too wise to stick
their necks out, maybe.
- On the subject of wisdom...
- Hmm?
Let me give you a little advice.
Well, I'm always glad
to listen, Colonel.
Hotel rooms are no places
for private conversation.
There are so many ways
in which they can be...
overheard.
No.
Yes.
You m...
No, my friend.
Not as obvious as that.
"I am not a man to turn down
a lady in distress."
That's very flattering.
You remember my words verbatim.
I am disappointed in you,
Mr Benton.
I obtained you a permit so that you
could carry out your lawful business,
and not conspire with persons
detained for investigation.
That girl was frightened sick,
and she asked me to help her.
Which you know very well.
What have you got against her, anyway?
She entered the country illegally.
The authorities must do their duty,
and you will admit
they are not doing it unkindly.
Hmm.
What about the other people
on that plane?
Your permit expires
tomorrow night, Mr Benton.
I advise you as a friend
to conclude your business quickly,
and go home.
Thank you, Colonel.
That's just what I plan to do.
I'm glad to hear that,
for your sake.
I understand that
the head of our travel service
is going to see you
tomorrow again at eleven.
There will be a car to take you there,
and then back to Macao.
That's what I call
real oriental hospitality.
Well, if you don't mind,
I'd like to make it an early night.
Have a good night, Mr Benton.
Room service, please.
Can you send up a room boy?
Thanks.
If the gentleman in number 51
goes out tonight,
report to me by telephone.
I do not want him followed.
Understand?
Understand, sir.
(DOOR OPENING)
Jasmine tea, sir?
Water keep hot all night.
Do you serve Room 26?
Yes, sir.
Very nice European lady.
Gave me present.
Oh. Well, um...
here's another one for you.
Can you take her a message?
No can do, sir.
Lady gone away just now.
Gone? Gone where?
Very nice tea, sir.
Made special for gentleman.
Ah.
"They've taken me away to
the Street of the Willows. Lola."
DON:
Lola. Lola Sanchez.
She had seen them
gunning Jimmy in the water.
That was the evidence I needed
to clear his name.
Wherever she was, I had to find her
and, if possible, get her out.
(DIALLING PHONE)
"The Street of the Willows."
It was a lucky break
she'd had time to leave that note.
Or was it?
Kang had overheard
enough of our conversation
to guess why I'd come to Canton.
And what was his real interest
in detaining her?
The three fishes!
(CLANKING)
LOLA:
Hello.
I thought you'd lost courage.
Courage, hell!
I've never been
so scared in my life.
What is this place, anyhow?
Never mind. You're here.
I had to arrange about a getaway.
There's a boat waiting down at the waterfront.
- Come on, let's go.
- Not yet.
Well, what is it?
We must wait.
- For a few moments.
- Mmm.
I, um...
I wasn't sure before, but, er...
I know now.
You know what?
The reason you came to Canton.
You, the simple businessman,
who likes to mix business
with pleasure.
- That's me.
- Ah-ah.
You are strictly business.
- And not so simple, either.
- Mm-hmm
You came here to find out
what happened
to the missing plane,
and the people on it.
In particular, your courier.
Didn't take you long to find me.
You're the...
I never thought our people
could move so fast.
You must be one of our top agents.
Oh, well, I...
I wouldn't exactly say that.
Well, I can relieve your
main anxiety at once.
I've kept the message safe.
- You have?
- Mm-hmm.
- Well, where is it?
- Here. (CHUCKLING)
That's the way I work.
Never anything on paper.
You've heard of
photographic memories?
- Sure, sure.
- Well, it's not so very rare.
All I have to do
is look at a page.
Even if I don't understand
a word of it,
I can reproduce
every word and every dot.
I see.
- It's another one of your talents.
- Another?
Never mind. Erm...
do... do they know about this?
Yes. That's what's kept me safe.
They want it badly, but they know
it's no use threatening me.
Not even with torture?
In my case, they can't be sure
it wouldn't defeat their own purpose.
You see, if I die,
the information dies with me.
That's why they've been
using gentler methods.
That is, until now.
Now you're scared their
patience might be running out?
Well, not scared, just...
just weighing up
the possibilities.
It's a strange job for a girl,
working against her own country.
I've never had a country of my own.
Well, you're neither
Chinese nor American,
so there could hardly be
any patriotic motive.
There are others.
Anyway, why worry about motives?
I wouldn't change my life.
It has its compensations, you know.
Excitement...
danger...
(CHUCKLING)
You're a funny girl.
Why?
Because I like living dangerously?
That's when you really have
the taste of life.
In danger, my eyes, my ears,
all my senses become sharpened.
Every feeling
a hundred times intensified.
That's when I really come alive.
Then, to you, danger
is a kind of a drug?
Not to you?
All I've got to do
is look at you, and...
The wise man never arrives too early.
Or too late.
I'm sorry I broke that rule.
Don't apologise.
- After all, you are the host.
- The host?
And a host has
a duty to his guests.
Unfortunately, our business
is becoming a little urgent.
But, thanks to you,
my dear young lady,
we now know all we need to know
concerning Mr Benton's
purpose in Canton.
So one of our little problems
has already been solved.
Oh, I'm glad to hear that.
Er... do you mind
letting me in on the solution?
You're still acting the part,
my friend?
We are holding you
as a spy.
A spy by invitation.
You got me the permit, remember?
But you asked for it, remember?
Naturally, we're interested
to learn how much,
or how little, your superiors
know about that plane.
I hope you will be
sensible enough to tell us.
In which case,
we may let you go.
In time.
Generous as always, Kang.
My friend, you've played your cards.
Why not admit that
you've lost the game?
I would hate to be forced
into any unpleasantness.
And I also hate to do business
on an empty stomach.
As the sage says,
"where amity dwells,
agreement finds an open door."
As it happens, I must return
to Moscow early in the morning.
My plane leaves at seven,
so, before that ungodly hour,
we must reach agreement
on all outstanding matters.
Including our negotiations
with you, my dear.
And, if you'll forgive me,
to remark that they've dragged on
far too long already.
It takes two to make
a bargain, Mr Kang.
"The greedy cormorant
loses the best fish."
By the way, if Mr Benton's
presence embarrasses you,
he can easily be removed.
LOLA: No, I...
I prefer him to be present.
I'm sure he'd be very helpful.
I bow to the lady's wishes.
As you please.
Well, I've made my offer,
which is far above the original limit.
You have exactly half an hour
in which to accept.
And if I don't?
This is a very pleasant place.
Much more pleasant
than the corrective prison.
Oh, I'm sure you wouldn't
send me there, Mr Kang.
You're a very charming woman,
but you're expendable.
Like any human being.
Some aren't.
Not if they have the
right kind of insurance.
Insurance?
Mm-hmm.
I call it my vocational risk policy.
Very useful.
Very few policies apply
to earthquakes and tidal waves,
and, I can assure you,
our power is very similar.
I'm sure there's a dentist in Detroit
who'd be very interested to hear that.
What did you say?
Or the woman who runs
a dress shop in Dallas.
Or perhaps the used
car salesman in Seattle.
- Er... these people are...?
- A list of Mr Kang's friends in America.
It's a long list.
I know it by heart.
And the names
to fit the occupations.
I think you've said enough.
You've made it now
quite impossible for us
to ever let you go.
That would be very unfortunate.
For you, Mr Kang.
You see, the list is
not only in my head.
It is also neatly typed out,
in a safe deposit at the
Chase Bank in Washington.
And if I'm not back
in a week from tomorrow,
they have instructions
to call an unlisted number,
and someone will collect it.
Of course, you may be lying.
Mm-hmm.
But that's a risk
you dare not take.
Ah, don't look so glum, Mr Kang.
After all,
you're still in the bidding.
Bidding?
I wasn't aware there was
to be an auction.
Mmm, that's exactly what it is.
And thanks to you, for bringing
the principal bidders together.
You want that formula badly.
Mr Benton here, I'm sure,
doesn't want me to sell it to you.
After all, it took
a long time to develop.
It would be a pity if it, er...
became useless, just because
Mr Kang's friends wanted it too.
This is most irregular.
I like to do business
on my own condition.
Fair, of course,
but still my own conditions.
But the lady wants an auction.
So, she ought to have an auction.
In fairness, I must point out
a little flaw in your assumption.
What can any bid of yours
be worth?
To put it quite bluntly, you are
at a great disadvantage, Mr Benton.
You're not a free agent.
That's easily arranged.
I'm sure that Miss Sanchez
will be willing to extend
her vocational risk policy
to cover me too.
- You will, ma'am, won't you?
- Certainly.
If you're the buyer.
I hope it'll encourage you
to bid high.
Of course, it, um...
would make things easier if, er...
Mr Kang's bid won.
But it's really a matter
of indifference to me.
Indifference?
Well...
almost.
I'd be sorry to leave you
in an unpleasant situation. I...
I rather like you.
But one can't afford
personal feelings in our profession.
And you are a professional, my dear.
- We can both appreciate that. Can't we?
- Hmm.
Sour!
But dealing with a double agent
can be very trying.
They are so mercenary.
But, what can one do?
Suppose we add the little matter of
twenty per cent to the original offer?
I think I ought to know
what the original offer is.
Otherwise, how can I bid?
Certainly.
Mr Kang has just bid
a hundred and fifty thousand dollars.
I did not.
It was a hundred and twenty.
I think I can do
a little bit better than that. Erm...
a hundred and sixty.
Cash.
Did I hear a hundred and sixty?
I repeat:
one hundred and sixty.
No more?
Is that the final offer?
Going...
going...
(LOUD BANG)
(FIREWORKS AND FIRECRACKERS)
(KANG LAUGHING)
It is nothing.
Just the sparrows.
(HEAVY THUD)
- Now's our chance.
- Oh, no. The auction isn't over yet.
(GUNSHOT)
(GUN FALLING TO FLOOR)
You're coming with me.
You won't have a chance
to sell that information now.
You fool.
You think you can drag me away?
You'll be lucky to
get away alone.
You've no choice.
Your fingerprints are on that gun.
If they find you here with that...
Come on, let's go.
(CROWD SHOUTING)
Come on.
KANG: (GROANING)
Get them.
(GUNSHOTS)
(CROWD JANGLING BELLS)
(WHISTLES BLOWING)
(FIRECRACKERS BANGING)
(SPEAKING CHINESE)
(MULTIPLE GUNSHOTS)
This way.
(BODYGUARD SHOUTING)
(GUNSHOT)
(GUNSHOT)
Come on, we'd better go.
Don...
Don...
danger...
danger's when...
one really comes alive.
HAN PO:
Mr Benton?
Mr Benton, boat ready.
We carry her?
No matter.
One man can go more quickly.
Come, come.
(SHIP'S HORN BLOWING)
What kept you so long?
Mr Benton, I came as soon as
my girl gave me the message.
- Did you get that boarding pass?
- Yes, it's here.
I'm sorry, I would have
been here to meet you,
only you arrived sooner
than I expected.
I left Canton in a bit of a hurry,
on the sampan express.
Did you find what
you were looking for?
- Yeah.
- Good.
And then some.
Oh, then I... I think you'd better
get straight in your cabin.
Mr Pereira, what is there about me
that seems to make you so nervous?
Oh, it's nothing, it's nothing.
It's just that the boat
is ready to sail.
Every time I arrive here in Macao,
you seem to be pushing me
aboard a steamer.
Mr Benton, I have worked for you
for two years now.
Now, during that time,
you have appeared here in Macao
on numerous occasions.
Now, none of these could be called,
not even by the farthest stretch
of the imagination,
routine visits.
Something always happens,
and I am always the one
left in the middle!
Oh, which reminds me. There's a girl
shot on the dock at Canton.
- You see what I mean?
- I'd appreciate it if you'd make
- the necessary arrangements.
- Yes, but, Mr...
Passport?
Oh, I doubt it. She kept
everything in her head.
What?
She's what you might call
a citizen of the world.
Mr Benton, you know it's
impossible to get into Canton...
Mr Pereira, you're
in the travel business.
Inventiveness: that's the
symbol of our firm.
Yes, but Canton is not one of...
I...
Earn your money, Mr Pereira.
Very good, sir.
Be seeing you.
I shall look forward to it.
(CHATTERING)
Prison not make Jimmy fat.
Swee Lim, you look see
he eat plenty big dinner.
Anyone would think
I'd spent weeks there.
Four days. Too much.
But it was for
his own safety, ma'am,
until Mr Benton found Miss Sanchez,
and confirmed his version of the truth.
Such a beautiful girl!
You look for beautiful girls
in Hong Kong.
All the same your sister.
You hear that, Tai Ko?
Well, I hate to leave
the family celebrations, but...
duty hours, you know.
Well, good luck, Jimmy,
and don't get involved
in any more incidents.
Other people don't know you
as we do.
Inspector must have more.
Number one dish coming up.
Canton duck, Bill.
Tai Tai's speciality.
You've got to try it.
Not me. Swee Kim make.
She very good cook.
Tai Ko, the best damn
travel agent in Hong Kong.
Yum seng.
ALL:
Yum seng, Tai Ko!
I'll be back for lunch.
If you need me, you can
call me at Sir Charles' house.
The train, Tai Ko!
Good morning, Mr Benton.
Is this your office, Mr Orme?
No, no, just up one minute
and down the next.
Anyway, I'm glad to have this chance
to thank you for your help
in solving the Lola Sanchez case.
I thought I was helping
with the Jimmy Mao case.
You might like to know that
the list she left behind
as her insurance policy has caused
quite a stir in Washington.
Hmm. That insurance
had quite a premium.
You know, I wish you'd
reconsider my offer.
We need an undercover man here.
Uh-uh. It's a quiet life
for me these days.
Well, think it over.
Anyway, I hope to see you again soon.
(CHUCKLING)
Oh, no, you won't!
Well, anyway, not...
not too soon.
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