Thunder in the East (1952) - full transcript
During India's first years of independence from Britain, Steve Gibbs lands his armaments loaded plane in Ghandahar province hoping to get rich. Pacifist Prime Minister Singh hopes to reach an agreement with guerilla leader Khan, the maharajah is a fool, and the British residents are living in the past. Steve's love interest is Joan Willoughby, the blind daughter of a parson.
General.
An unidentified plane is
approaching the palace airstrip
for a landing.
Certainly. You'll have a full
report as soon as possible.
Will there be any change
in the plan?
Very well.
We attack Belapur tonight
and Ghandahar will be next.
Thank you, general.
Sorry, sir,
but you cannot land here.
I'm sorry, sir,
I have landed here.
This is the private field
of the Maharaja of Ghandahar.
His Highness
is expecting me.
Oh, I see.
My bag.
I am your man.
Follow me
please.
Come on.
May I see your
papers please?
And would you kindly
open the bag?
Steven X. Gibbs.
Foreigners are leaving
these days.
That we understand.
Foreigners arriving...
Tout d'Amour.
You sell
this perfume?
No, I give it away.
Wrong sex.
It is against the law to bring
firearms into Ghandahar.
Well, I thought I'd do a little
rabbit hunting while I'm here.
There are no rabbits
in Ghandahar.
Well, maybe I could pull
a few out of a hat.
Your gun will be returned to you
when you leave.
How long do you plan
to stay?
I'm leaving as soon as
I see the maharaja.
The maharaja?
He says His Highness
is expecting him.
Why didn't you
tell me?
Come with me please.
I will take you into the palace.
Good deal.
Come on, son.
I will wait, sahib.
Mr. Singh will be
in shortly.
How do you do,
Mr. Gibbs?
Well, how do you do?
Please be seated.
Thank you.
You seem to be
under the impression
that you have an appointment
with the maharaja.
Cigarette?
No, thank you.
Do you mind if I smoke?
Not at all.
Thank you.
When do I get
to see His Highness?
I am in charge
of all his appointments,
both real and imaginary.
Well, you can't shoot a guy
for trying.
What is your business,
Mr. Gibbs?
Insurance.
Insurance?
Life insurance.
Just the kind Your Highness
needs very badly right now.
Please go on.
I've just flown
in 20 machine guns,
200 rifles and 100,000 rounds
of ammunition.
What makes you think
we can use such an arsenal?
Two things:
the British army's moved out
and Nawab Khan
and his guerillas are waiting
in the hills to move him.
Whom do you represent?
Steven X. Gibbs.
Are you by any chance connected
with the American government?
Oh, no, no.
I'm strictly on my own.
My firm is Hashim Garrabin
Company, Bombay.
I'm the company.
I'm afraid you have made a long
trip in vain.
We are not in the market
for guns.
But you ought to be.
You're about to be attacked.
What are you going
to fight them with?
Not with bullets.
They settle nothing.
Except who wins
or who loses.
In war, nobody wins.
Look, I'm not selling you war.
I'm selling you defense.
Mr. Gibbs, I had every hope that
I could contain the tribesmen
without violence.
We were in the midst
of peaceful negotiations.
They have been watching me
to see if I made any false move.
And Mr. Gibbs, you may have made
that false move for me.
Just by coming here.
Relax, Mr. Singh,
I haven't got a press agent.
Nobody knows what I brought
in my plane.
In this part of the world,
men can see what is hidden.
They can hear
what has not yet been said.
Mr. Singh--
Tell me,
you did not by any chance bring
any medical supplies
in your plane?
Streptomycin.
Penicillin.
No, but I wish I had.
But right now
I'm selling guns.
We are not interested
in your guns.
Well, in that case,
I guess I'll have to sell them
to somebody else.
Nawab Kahn perhaps.
You know, I--
I never thought about that.
Good afternoon, Mr. Gibbs.
Look, Mr. Singh,
what's a good time
to see His Highness?
Good-bye, Mr. Gibbs.
I'll be seeing you.
Give me the airstrip.
I want the cargo of Mr. Gibbs'
plane confiscated.
And load it at once and keep it
under seal until further notice.
Sahib, here is your gun.
It may be useful, sahib.
Well, you're gonna be pretty
useful yourself.
I am your man.
What's your name?
Moti Lal.
Moti Lal.
Where di you get this scar?
I fight.
Fight?
Yes, sahib.
You ever win?
I have one scar.
My enemy has many.
You know all the answers,
don't you?
Yes, sahib.
Okay, then.
Tell me, what do you know about
a man named Nawab Khan?
Didn't you hear what I said?
Yes, sahib.
I thought you knew
all the answers.
This one I do not know,
sahib.
Bags to Morrison.
Goodbye. I hate to go,
but after all.
Not me.
I'm glad to go.
And I advise all of you to leave
before the trouble starts.
From what I hear,
there's going to be plenty.
Everything will be all right.
Good bye, dear.
Goodbye, Alvin.
Goodbye, Mrs. Carmichael.
Hope I see you in London.
Goodbye.
We're going
To see Matilda May
We're going
To see Matilda May
We're going
To see Matilda May
And take one how do you do?
Good morning, sire.
You got a nice room with a bath?
Uh, we have several nice rooms
without a bath.
I need a bath more
than I need a room.
If you don't mean waiting
a few minutes,
a nice room with a nice bath
will be vacated.
That's fine.
Uh, if you'd be good enough
to register.
What the devil
are you doing?
I'm sorry, Sir Henry.
We have orders
to take down the sign.
Listen, everybody.
They've taken our sign down.
You consider that
a major disaster?
Why, this parlor has been
exclusively British
since the hotel was built
in 1881.
But, Sir Henry, this is 1947.
Look at this.
Look!
A genuine Kashan silk
prayer rug.
Nothing in my collection
to compare with it.
Hello, my dear. Picked it up
for a mere trifle.
You have no idea
how prices have come down.
What's up?
We've practically
been evicted.
Evicted?
They've taken our sign.
I've been listening to some
of you talk like this for weeks.
And you might as well
get this into your heads.
Things have changed.
And if you want to stay here,
you have to change too.
Ah, good heavens, Joan!
We belong here.
Yes, if you're willing to accept
the changed conditions.
It's their country,
and we're just guests here.
And the sooner we realize it,
the better.
Atta-girl.
That's telling 'em.
Thank you, whoever you are.
Thank you.
You're welcome.
Sahib.
You're room is ready.
Oh fine.
Come in.
What is it?
Oh, monsieur, forgive me.
Oh, that's perfectly all right.
Oh, I could come back
later.
Oh, no. Stick around.
I'll be out in a second.
Okay.
What can I do for you?
Monsieur.
Monsieur.
You can save my life.
What are you
dying of?
You the man who gives
this money by plane.
The name is Gibbs.
My name
is Lizette Damon.
Your neighbor.
Neighbor?
I'm staying at the hotel.
Glad to know you,
neighbor.
Monsieur Gibbs,
you can be my good angel.
Oh?
You have just the wings I need.
Oh.
You're checking out.
That's my greatest need.
I must somehow get
to Bombay at once.
What can you get in Bombay
that you can't get here?
I have a good friend
in Bombay.
How good?
Mr. Rollins,
the American consul.
He's my guardian.
I talked to him only
on the phone this morning.
He's very worried
about conditions here.
He urged me to leave
at the first opportunity.
And you want to hitch a ride
in my plane?
Alors! You've said it.
Might be.
It's possible?
Could be.
Moti Lal.
Yes, sahib.
We're out
of cigarettes.
Run down
and get a carton.
Yes, sahib.
Would you do something
for me?
If I can.
Scratch my back.
When do you plan
to leave?
Couple of days.
Mm. Feels good.
A little more to the left.
Here?
Further up.
Ah.
Ah.
Uh, you know, you've got
to understand.
I'm in business.
No free rides.
But of course. Unfortunately,
my funds are tied up.
You know
how those banks are.
I've been waiting for my money
for days, and it does not come,
but, naturally,
I'll pay for my fare
in Bombay.
C.O.D.?
"C.O.D." What is that?
Collect on delivery.
That is it, monsieur.
Oh, it is, huh?
Oh, Tout d'Amour.
Yeah, I never travel
without it.
That's my favorite too.
May I?
Sure.
Thank you.
Mm.
You know
I have a partner.
He's a very strict
businessman.
I don't think
he'd like this C.O.D.
With him,
it's P.I.A.
"P.I.A."?
Pay in advance.
Oh.
Well, I guess I'll have
to raise the money somehow.
I'm afraid so.
It's a commercial plane.
Would tonight
be soon enough?
Certainly.
Here.
With my compliments.
Why, thank you.
You're most generous.
See you tonight?
Au revoir, monsieur.
For you, Charlie.
Oh, thank you,
sahib.
You can tell me
where I can locate Nawab Khan.
What the matter
with everybody around here?
Forget it.
Good evening, Mr. Gibbs.
I don't suppose you
remember me.
Oh, you're the girl you told off
those fuddy-duddies
this morning.
They're not really
fuddy-duddies.
Everybody's a bit edgy. We've
been under quite a tension.
But it was rude to slam the door
in your face.
Oh, well.
Have a drink?
Thank you.
What are you having?
Well, I asked for Scotch,
but it tastes like kerosene.
Oh, one kerosene
and soda please.
Really, Mr. Gibbs. You've
committed a grave social error
enquiring after that man.
Heh, heh.
Don't you know that Nawab Khan
is a bad word around Ghandahar?
As far as I'm concerned,
Ghandahar is a bad word.
Well, you don't seem to like
the whiskey, you don't seem
to like our town.
Forgive me for intruding.
Oh, no. Please.
Have your drink.
Cigarette?
Thanks.
I hope you don't find me
too forward.
I was only trying
to be a committee of one
to welcome the stranger
in our midst.
And to thank you
for applauding me this morning.
I'm very fond of applause
and I must--
What happened?
The lights went out.
...does not see very well.
What he means, Mr. Gibbs,
I'm as blind as a bat.
Oh, I'm sorry.
I'm very sorry.
I had no idea.
But you don't act a bit like--
Like a bat? Heh.
Oh, it's silly, but I like
to fool people.
Especially new people.
Thanks for the drink,
Mr. Gibbs.
But you haven't
touched it.
I think I ought to be
starting for home.
May I--?
May I get you a tonga?
Oh, no. It isn't far.
And I like to walk.
Besides, my maid
is waiting for me.
Good night,
Mr. Gibbs.
Do you mind if I...
walk with you a way?
No, of course not.
Tayhi.
I've just heard
from the power house at Belapur.
The think it's sabotage.
I should have told you
about those cobblestones.
They're very tricky here.
You know
you're terrific?
All you need is practice.
Someone to give you
a hand.
My grandfather
deserves all the credit.
Mind if I give you
a little credit?
Well, maybe a good mark
for effort.
What can one do? Sit in
a corner and cry one's eyes out?
You can't just give up,
can you?
Right in the middle
of a promising career.
Career?
Didn't I tell you?
I'm a professional guide.
I show tourists the teeming life
of Ghandahar.
The highways and the by ways,
the shops and the bazaars.
Walk up, walk up. Right across
the street to your right
is the establishment
of Nitra Putra.
You see it?
The one with the blue awning.
Care to drop in and buy
a souvenir for your wife?
Or your girlfriend?
That's an idea,
but I'll need some help.
Well, I can't be much help
unless I know something
about her.
Or you.
About me? I can tell you that
in four words.
I fly for money.
Heh, heh. That's what I call
a rich, full,
colorful description
of a man's life.
Could you spare a few of the
lurid details off the record?
Well, I was a couple of years
in ??? with Chennault.
Flying tigers,
how thrilling.
How did you come
to join them?
The pay was higher.
Heh. Come on.
Heaven born.
Hello, Charlie.
What have you got?
I have jewels, moon stones
and sapphires.
??? and ???.
Sandalwood boxes. A beautiful
bracelet for your lady.
Ah, let's see.
Maybe she'd like a ring.
Good, a ring.
Ah-hah.
Ah-hah. The most precious.
It was once
in the maharaja's collection.
I cannot bear to part with it.
How much?
I know Miss Willoughby.
I sometimes attend her
grandfather's church.
I wish no profit.
The ring cost me 500 rupees.
Sold.
Wait.
Take it for 400 rupees.
The finest of jade.
In these uncertain times,
one must make sacrifices.
Three hundred rupees.
Sold.
She wants my very blood.
Fifty rupees.
One hundred rupees.
Fifty.
Heaven born, take it as a gift
for 100 rupees.
Fifty.
Impossible.
Come along, Mr. Gibbs.
Sahib.
Take it for 50.
Sold.
You must admit
I drive a hard bargain.
Just a minute.
For my lady friend.
Oh, no. You musn't.
I--
Uh. I couldn't.
Please.
Thank you...
so much.
Say, how did you know
that awning was blue?
Oh, I saw it
when I was 10.
It was
the most beautiful blue.
It still is.
What is that?
Oh, that's the maharaja's car.
Wait here for me.
Be right back.
Your Highness,
my name is Gibbs. Steve Gibbs!
Is he hurt?
No.
How do you like that?
All I did was introduced myself.
I was knocked flat on my--
My opening remark.
Well, one doesn't jump
on the running board
to meet the maharaja.
One doesn't meet
the maharaja at all
without seeing Ram Singh.
That crackpot?
He's the maharaja's right arm.
Also his eyes and his ears,
sometimes his heart.
Well, sure isn't
his brains.
I know His Highness
quite well.
Perhaps I can arrange
an appointment for you.
Baby-- I mean Miss...
No, baby. I like it.
Oh, if you can fix that up for
me, you can name your own price.
Oh, don't be rash, Mr. Gibbs.
No, I mean it.
Well, you may not be able
to meet my terms.
Sky's the limit.
Well, brace yourself.
You don't know
what you're in for.
What?
A picnic.
Huh?
If I arrange an appointment
for you,
you have to take me
on a picnic.
You know, sandwiches and potato
salad and ants. Plenty of ants.
Sold. But, uh, supposing you
can't make that appointment?
Well, then, I'll have
to take you on a picnic.
When do you think you
can talk to His Highness?
Soon.
You're a wonderful dancer,
Miss Willoughby.
Practice, Mr. Gibbs.
Practice, a gramophone,
and Grandfather.
Oh no. Please don't.
Don't what?
Feel sorry for me.
Really, it's not too bad.
It's fun meeting people,
and figuring out
what they look like.
What do I look like?
Your face is...
good.
Mr. Steven Gibbs?
That's me.
I am Azam Habib,
a broker.
What's on your mind?
Twenty machine guns.
Two hundred rifles.
A hundred thousand
rounds of ammunition.
For a client of mine.
Would you mind telling me
your client's name?
My client prefers not to have
his identity revealed.
Would it be convenient to call
on you tomorrow about noon?
I guess so.
When can you deliver
the merchandise?
Any time you want.
Good. I will take
possession tomorrow.
Hey.
Don't you think we ought to
agree on a price before...
before you take delivery?
We will agree on a price.
Hey.
What are you
doing here?
I am your man.
Sure. Sure. But that doesn't
make you my roommate does it?
It is the custom.
What about your
parents?
Won't they be
worried?
I have no parents, Sahab.
Where do you live?
Here.
Do you snore?
No, sahab.
Okay.
Oh, thank you!
Sahab?
Yeah?
When you employ a man,
it is the custom to discuss the
matter of wages.
How much is it
the custom to pay?
I would be happy if
you gave me your gun.
And I'd be very unhappy to part
with it.
Perhaps you will leave it to me
in your will.
You got a deal, kid.
But I'm not figuring on kicking
off for some time.
I will wait, Sahab.
Hello.
This is Joan.
Mr. Gibbs, I've got some bad
news for you.
You're going to take me on a
picnic.
When?
Right after you you've
seen the Maharajah.
The Maha--
I've arranged an appointment
for you at eleven in the
morning.
Oh, baby.
Hey, how about you
being my manager?
It's well worth considering.
I'll take it up with my
grandfather.
Grandfather?
I would like you
to meet him.
It's Mr. Gibbs.
How do you do,
Mr. Gibbs?
Hello, Mr. Willoughby.
I've been hearing a great deal
about you.
Mr. Gibbs, it occurred to me
that perhaps you'd like to
attend services at my church on
Sunday.
Church?
Uh... sure.
Sure. Mr. Willoughby.
That is, if I'm here
on Sunday.
Oh, I do hope so,
Mr. Gibbs.
With all this exodus going on,
attendence has dropped--
It's me again.
I do think it's shameful
the way Grandfather pounces on
every new arrival.
I've got the picnic all planned.
It's the most beautiful place.
Little island in the middle
of a lake.
Do you like
deviled eggs?
Oh... I'm mad about
deviled eggs.
I'll do hundreds.
Wait'll you see the basket I'm
planning.
It'll have everything including
pickles and a gramophone.
I'll bring the ants.
Splendid.
Oh, by the way...
what's the color
of your eyes?
Why... kinda blue?
Something like that awning.
I knew it.
Good night.
Good night, Joan.
Good night, Steve.
Hussy.
I know it.
What is wrong,
Sahab?
Nothing.
Look at the fire.
What's the name of that
town over there?
Belapur.
If you have to find
Newah Khan,
he is there now
burning the city.
I did not expect the attack on
Belapur last night.
I suggest that you communicate
with your British High
Commissioner in New Delhi.
And arrange for a convoy.
Convoy?
Why should we
have to leave here by convoy?
Why should we have
to leave at all?
I couldn't possibly leave
without my rugs.
Those who wish to remain,
will have to do so
at their own risk.
Get in touch with the rest of
the British residents.
Well, since I have no intention
of leaving,
Miss Simone can have my place in
the convoy.
Oh please.
I'm very grateful
for your kindness,
but I've made other
arrangements.
I am sure you can settle all
those details
with the
High Commissioner.
Give me one regiment and
I'll settle it myself.
Sir Henry, I do not share your
faith in regiments.
Well then how are you prepared
to guarantee our safety?
Unfortunately, I have no
way of doing that.
Then there is no point in
wasting any more time.
Good day.
Claudia.
Joan, please do
think it over.
I'm not afraid,
Ram.
We'll be
all right.
Good bye, Mr. Singh.
Good bye, Doctor.
I know how busy
you have been--
Not too busy to
telegraph Bombay.
And the visa?
It will be issued.
If I can vouch
for you.
I realize we met for the first
time yesterday,
and you know about me only what
I told you,
but do you have any
more questions?
One or two. Please,
do sit down.
Perhaps my friend, the American
counsel, might want some
further details about the
purpose of your trip to America.
What shall I say?
Well...
it's just that I would
like to settle down.
What if, in America, you do not
find what you are looking for?
I'll just have to
keep on looking.
Yes, Your
Highness?
Ram, can you spare
a moment?
Certainly,
Your Highness.
I'm afraid the Maharajah's idea
of a moment is quite vague.
I will dictate the
letter this afternoon,
and send it to
your hotel.
I would be happy to
call for it myself.
If it would not
inconvenience you.
Not at all.
Thank you so much.
Au revoir Monsieur.
Good morning,
Your Highness.
Hi.
Good morning,
Mr. Gibbs.
My dear friend,
have you had breakfast?
Hours ago, thank you.
He thinks I get up too late.
Most difficult man.
Sit down, old chap.
Ram...
you know that I never interfere
with you.
But don't you think you're being
hasty in refusing
to do business with
our friend?
Your Highness, I've been
thinking the matter over.
Good.
The more I think about it, the
more I am convinced
that it would be
bad business.
See what I mean?
A stubborn man. Implaccable.
Dear boy, how can I
persuade you?
Why not tell him?
You're the boss.
Only when Ram isn't around,
and he's always around.
None of you are going to be
around much longer
if Newah attacks
Ghandahar.
My friends, the British, never
took him seriously.
Is that why they paid him
off every year?
I wanted to pay
him off also,
but you wouldn't let me. Never
should have let you overrule me.
You told me those blighters
didn't hate me.
You said they'd stop fighting.
It is not hatred that makes them
fight. It is fear.
And those who are the most
frightened,
are the ones who commit the
greatest violence.
If they should learn that we are
arming against them--
There we go again.
What Mr. Singh is trying to
say--
I know what Singh
is trying to say, but it's a lot
of bilge.
Everybody knows those birds are
gunning for you,
and if you don't gun back--
Mr. Gibbs has only one interest.
And that is to sell his guns.
I'm sorry Your Highness, but I'm
fed up with this jabberwocky.
If you're not interested in my
proposition, somebody else is.
We're aware of that.
That is why I thought it best to
impound your cargo.
You what?
I have confiscated
your guns.
Stop your clowing, Singh.
You know there is a law against
bringing weapons into Ghandahar.
You were informed of it
when you arrived.
Hello.
It's for Mr. Singh,
Your Highness.
Hello.
Yes, put it through.
You will be given a
receipt for your cargo.
It will be returned
to you at our expense.
Yes?
I see.
What is it, Ram?
The bus that left
yesterday,
was attacked
on the road.
No one
was spared.
I saw that bus
leave the hotel.
There were women
and children on it.
The kids were singing
as the bus pulled out.
Nice work, Singh.
You can send that
receipt to the hotel.
Most unfortunate about the bus,
but at any rate,
we have the guns.
I can leave with a clear
conscience now.
You are planning a trip,
Your Highness?
Didn't I tell you?
I thought a few weeks on the
Riviera.
I've not been feeling ver
well lately.
My sinus.
I understand,
Your Highness.
I hope you have a
speedy recovery.
Get the hangar.
Have my plane
tuned up.
What in the world
kept you?
Where's the driver?
I couldn't find a driver who
would leave Ghandahar,
for love or money.
Oh, Corbett, you're not going to
be frightened away
by a bonfire.
See that.
There they go.
Heaven knows where.
And we're going too.
You'd better leave too.
Cheerio.
Bye everyone.
Bye.
I must leave you
after today.
Oh, what happened,
Tayhi?
My mother has been taken
very ill.
I understand.
I'm very sorry,
Tayhi.
We've been together
for so long.
I shall miss you
very much.
I'm not happy
to go.
I'll go.
Hi.
Hi.
Steve.
Have you seen the
Maharajah?
I just left
him.
How did you
make out?
I shouldn't
have come here.
The way things look now, this is
a place to get out of and fast.
Yes. We had a
conference with Ram Singh.
There's some talk
of a convoy.
There won't be time
for a convoy.
Or a picnic.
I know.
We're leaving by
plane for Bombay.
We?
Um hmm.
You and I and
your grandfather.
I can't.
Why?
I'm afraid.
Of what?
Bombay.
Oh, come, now, Joan,
you're not afraid of anything.
Why should Bombay
frighten you?
I know, Steve.
To you,
it's just another city,
but to me...
it could be like...
like a new planet.
I was born here.
I've never been
anywhere else.
I'd have to start
all over.
I'd be helpless again.
I couldn't bear that.
I know.
But you wouldn't have
to stay in Bombay.
When things quiet down around
here, you could come back.
I'll bring you back.
You'll bring...?
You will?
Promise.
When do you think
you'll leave?
Tonight.
Oh, Steve, I--
Now, you start
getting packed.
But what about
the others?
Would there be room in the plane
for some of them?
Now, look, Joan, I...
Sure.
Why not?
There's plenty of room.
They've been whistling
in the dark,
but some of them
are terribly worried.
You come on
and get ready.
I will.
Where's your grandfather?
At the church.
Will you get a hold
of him right away?
Have him round up
everybody else.
Arrange a meeting at 4:00
at the hotel.
I'll gas up my plane
and come back for you.
And we'll have that picnic
on the plane.
Steve.
You're terrific.
You go on in.
I'll be right there.
Mr. Habib.
My name is not Habib.
Well, if you run into
this Habib,
tell him that cargo of mine
he was interested in is--
You have no cargo.
News travels fast
around here, doesn't it?
Quite.
The Maharajah's plane.
His highness decided
quite suddenly
to go to the Riviera
for the winter.
Sir Gibbs,
the French lady
has been looking for you.
Where is she?
In her room.
Tell her to start packing.
Yes, sir.
Good afternoon,
everybody.
Good afternoon.
Come in, Steve.
I understand some of you
people are interested
in getting transportation
out of Ghandahar.
As Mr. Singh suggested,
we've just put in a call
to New Delhi
to arrange for a convoy.
Want to listen to lullabies
or can you stand a few facts?
I believe Mr. Singh
gave us all the facts.
Did he tell you why the bus
that left yesterday
never reached Nurban?
It was attacked.
There were no survivors.
The Morrisons.
That's fact number one.
Fact number two.
The Maharajah just left
in his plane, heading south.
Fact number three. I'm
pulling out myself for Bombay.
But I can handle
some passengers.
When do you plan
to leave?
7:00 tonight.
Well, that's rather
short notice, isn't it?
This time tomorrow, Ghandahar's
liable to be a butcher shop.
How many people
can your plane accommodate?
Twenty in a pinch.
A tight pinch.
Well, what about luggage?
My rugs?
Rugs? No rugs, no luggage.
Just passengers.
May I ask what your fare is
to Bombay?
A thousand rupees.
But that's double
the usual rate.
Costs a lot of money
to fly my plane here.
And as far as I'm concerned,
this is a round trip.
Can't you see Mr. Gibbs
is joking?
I never joke about money.
I'm a commercial pilot.
That's how I make my living.
You ought to be ashamed.
Downright thievery.
Taking advantage.
No better than Khan.
That just sent the rate
up to 2,000 rupees.
Sir Henry,
I cannot get New Delhi.
All telephone and telegraph
lines outside Ghandahar
have been cut.
Well, that's good news
for you, isn't it, Gibbs?
It means your plane's
the only way to get out.
A really enterprising
swindler
could possibly get
as high as 10,000 rupees.
Thanks for the tip.
I'll take it.
The rate is now
10,000 rupees.
Gibbs, you're
a blackmailing scoundrel.
Cash, in advance.
But no extra charge
for calling me names.
Oh, go to the devil.
My plane leaves at 7:00 sharp.
Take it or leave it.
Naturally, Joan, that doesn't go
for you or your grandfather.
Joan. Joan.
Don't touch me.
I'm all right.
I'm all right.
We're checking out.
Pack my stuff.
Sir...
I am not your man.
The clock is
five minutes slow.
Where are the bellboys?
They have all gone.
Come on, Frenchy.
You've both been
so very kind.
You're leaving?
Yes, on Monsieur Gibbs' plane.
Don't you think his rate
is rather high?
Oh, but I'm going
as his guest.
Let's go, Frenchy.
Yes, ch?ri.
Goodbye, Miss Willoughby.
Miss Simone?
Yes?
Yes, Miss Willoughby?
A little present.
Thank you.
I wish you
a safe journey.
Thank you.
Joan...
Please.
To the airstrip.
That's the Corbetts' parrot.
Have the Corbetts
come back?
No, child.
Henry, we've got
to get out of here.
But, Claudia, how?
In a tonga?
There's still
Mr. Gibbs' plane.
Are you suggesting we submit to
the blackmail of that scoundrel?
Yes, Henry, yes, please.
Blackmail or not, it's
the only way left to get out.
In any event,
it's too late.
No, it isn't.
Ahbek. Ahbek, get me
Mr. Singh at the palace.
Ahbek?
Ahbek ran away.
Gone.
Gone?
Yes, ma'am.
Oh.
Moti Lal, help me, please.
Yes, ma'am.
Get me Mr. Singh
at the palace, quickly.
Seven-seven-nine.
I'm leaving at 7:00,
and I won't wait a second.
I'll be there, ch?ri.
Hi, Charlie.
Sorry, sir. Nobody's permitted
to enter the plane.
What do you mean?
This is my plane.
Yes, but I have orders
from Singh.
Oh.
Nice guy, Singh.
But I thought he had strict
rules against carrying guns.
That does not apply to
his highness' private police.
Oh?
Cigarette?
I am not permitted to smoke
while on duty.
Okay.
Take this letter directly
on your typewriter.
Yes, sir.
I am ready.
Mr. John Rollins,
American Consulate, Bombay.
My dear Rollins.
This will introduce you
to my friend
Miss Lizette Simone.
I assure you
there is ample time.
But the plane is leaving
at 7:00,
and Monsieur Gibbs said
he won't wait one second.
The plane will not leave
until the other passengers
have arrived.
Oh, I didn't know there were
going to be other passengers.
Neither did Mr. Gibbs.
Please do sit down.
My good friend
Miss Simone
wishes to visit
your country,
and for this purpose
requires a visa.
Miss Simone is a lady
whose charm and beauty
are exceeded
only by her good character,
for which...
I have the honor
to vouch.
Oh, monsieur.
With kindest regards,
sincerely, your friend.
That's all.
Bring this right in.
Monsieur...
I'll try to live up to...
the beautiful lies
you have just written.
It is not a lie,
Miss Simone.
You are the kindest person
I have ever known.
Oh, thank you.
Monsieur Singh,
what are you
going to do?
About what?
When the plane departs,
there will be no other way
to leave Ghandahar.
For a while, perhaps.
Could it be possible that
you too might be a passenger?
I would like very much
to be a passenger,
but my place is here.
Monsieur,
you're a brave man.
No. I am
a very frightened man.
Monsieur...
I want to...
Leaving without me?
Pig!
Come on! Cochon!
Get away, fast!
Is he hurt?
No, he's all right.
God moves
in mysterious ways,
his wonders to perform.
For years I have been trying
to entice you into my church,
but I've never been able to get
more than one or two of you.
Now, by an act
of providence,
I have you all
at my mercy.
But I'll not
take advantage of it.
I won't inflict
a sermon on you.
Why not?
Why don't you preach
a funeral sermon
for the people
on the bus
and the Corbetts
and for us?
Joan?
You're all going to die
because one blackguard
wanted to make some money
out of you.
Preach about that.
Perhaps you'll make a convert.
Joan, stop it.
Mr. Gibbs,
I have just been informed
that you used force
to get your plane.
Didn't think I was going to
let you confiscate it, did you?
I was merely holding it until
the other passengers arrived.
Don't look now,
but your halo's showing.
I regret that the guard
found it necessary
to shoot at your tire.
I'm afraid
it will not be safe
for any of you
to return to the hotel.
The palace seems to be
the only refuge available.
I beg of you
to be my guests
until the emergency
is over.
Of course, Mr. Gibbs,
that includes you.
These men will show you
to your rooms.
Will the gentlemen
please remain a moment?
Gentlemen, the tribesmen
are in Kandahar.
They're getting close.
That means we're next.
Do you suppose
they'll attack the palace?
Who knows?
Well, even if they do,
we're not entirely helpless.
Far from it.
There are some factors
in our favor.
Why, between us
and the palace guards--
Most of the guards
have deserted.
That's a break.
At least we won't
get shot in the back.
Well, as a matter of fact we're
well situated for the fence.
There's only one approach
to the palace,
and that's from the front.
What about the airstrip?
No, they can't possibly
reach it,
except through
the palace grounds.
They can't get through
if we concentrate our fire
in that direction.
With the proper gunpower,
we--
What can you give us,
Singh, in the way of arms?
I'm afraid there are none
I can put at your disposal.
That's not true, Singh.
I came here with a planeload
of guns and ammunition.
He's got it stashed
someplace.
I have no intention
of using it.
Oh, you think
they won't attack.
I know I won't resist.
Are you trying to say you
intend to surrender the palace
without a fight?
The palace is nothing.
Mortar and stones.
Dust. I'm not concerned
with buildings.
But all we ask is a chance
to defend ourselves.
Surely you can't
deny us that.
I cannot permit machine guns
to be turned
against my own people,
or any people.
So that's what
you're going to do
with your newly won
precious freedom.
Sure, hand it over on a silver
platter to those tribesmen.
We will ask them
to share it.
It took us 200 years
of struggle,
but we finally got our freedom
without firing a bullet.
Perhaps it will take
another 200 years
before we can find peace.
In the meantime
we're going to sit here
and be butchered
like sheep.
It's all very well for you
to die for your principles,
but you can't ask us
to die for them.
Look, you're wasting
your time.
Those guns aren't his.
They're mine.
And I'm throwing them
in the kitty for free.
Well, where are they?
I'm sorry, gentlemen.
Those guns
will not be used.
He's not just a fanatic,
he's a lunatic.
Who can be sure?
Perhaps we all are.
Perhaps the whole world's
a lunatic.
Mr. Gibbs.
Would you like to be shown
to your quarters?
You don't think I want to be
caught in this rat trap, do you?
I'm getting out.
When do you plan to leave?
Right now.
I wish you well.
Never mind that. How about
paying me for my plane?
Of course. How much?
Two hundred thousand
rupees, cash.
Very well.
Paling.
Here you are,
Mr. Gibbs.
I noticed a couple of jeeps
on the airstrip.
I'd like to buy one.
I'd be glad to present you
with one.
No, thanks.
I pay as I go.
Thank you.
I'm looking
for the trophy room.
I think it's just here,
isn't it?
This looks like it.
Thank you.
Listen, Joan.
Listen hard.
I just bought a jeep from Singh.
I'm getting out.
Pleasant journey.
I want to take you
with me.
Thank you, no.
Look, I can't guarantee
we'll come out alive.
We got one chance
in maybe 100,
but it's better
than nothing.
I've got a gun
and a half a million rupees.
What do you say?
I'd rather stay with my friends,
if you don't mind.
What's eating you?
Don't you want to live?
Not in your kind of world.
I'm not asking you
to live with me.
I'm giving you a chance
to survive.
You're an expert at that.
Look, lay off that piano,
will you?
This is no time for a concert.
Mr. Gibbs,
I'm blind but not deaf.
What do you know about my world?
You've never been in it.
It's a jungle.
And if you weren't wrapped up
in that pink gauze,
you'd know it was
a free-for-all.
Oh, I understand
your jungle.
So you step on a few toes,
hit below the belt.
Kick, gouge,
anything goes.
Sure. That's how you get by.
And it's about time
somebody put you hip to it.
You've done your bit,
and I don't thank you
for it.
Joan.
Oh, go on back to sleep.
I saw it when I was 10.
It was the most
beautiful blue.
The most beautiful blue.
The most beautiful blue.
I want to see Newah Khan.
Newah Khan.
Habib. Boy, am I glad
to see you.
Permit me to apologize
for this man's behavior.
That's all right. I like being
robbed and kicked around.
This ignorant fool
has delusions of grandeur.
I am Newah Khan,
at your service.
What are you
standing there for?
Why don't you get
the gentleman a chair.
Yes, general.
There's your gun.
And your money.
Sit down.
Where exactly were you
planning to go?
Here to see you.
Thank you. I'm honored.
And how can I be
of service to you?
I want a pass
to leave Kandahar
for me and a few
of my friends.
I would be most happy
to issue them,
but they would be of no use
to you whatsoever.
You and your friends
almost certainly
would be shot down
by snipers
before you had a chance
to show your passes.
I'll take that chance,
general.
I will not.
I can't afford to.
If hard came to any one of you,
it would be most regrettable.
I want no foreigners hurt.
Excuse me.
I thought the wires
were down.
Only out of Kandahar.
We hope to have everything
back to normal in a short time.
Can you get long distance?
Certainly.
I'll pay you 100,000 rupees
for one telephone call
to Bombay.
You're quite welcome to use
the telephone free of charge.
Whom do you wish to call
in Bombay?
My partner.
For what purpose?
To get a plane
to pick us up.
I see no objection,
providing you confine
the conversation to just that.
Absolutely.
If you try to say any more,
you'll be cut off.
And not by the operator.
Now, what is the number
you wish to call?
Bombay 1-1-3-2-1-5.
How many Europeans do you plan
to take with you, Mr. Gibbs?
All of them.
Including General Harrison?
Yes.
That will leave Ran Singh
with 20 machine guns,
200 rifles and 100,000 rounds
of ammunition.
When you get back
to Bombay,
you can tell the truth
about who is the real aggressor.
Bombay.
Choose your words
carefully.
Hello?
Azam? This is Gibbs.
Hold it.
I can't answer
any questions.
My plane cracked up
and I'm stuck here.
Bring the other plane
to Kandahar right away.
Quick.
And I mean quick.
General, I don't know
how to thank you.
If there's ever anything
I can do for you--
There is something.
You can deliver a message
for me to Ran Singh.
Tell him if he really
wants peace,
he can have it before
there's any more bloodshed.
Tell him he has
until midnight tonight
to come here to discuss
terms of settlement.
Okay.
Been a pleasure
meeting you, general.
The pleasure is mutual.
Can I be of any
further service?
Oh, yes.
There is something.
I noticed some prisoners
at the Kandahar Hotel.
Some saboteurs.
Subversive elements.
We've taken them
into protective custody.
Well, among them is a boy
named Moti Lal.
I'd like to take him
to Bombay with me.
Of course. See that the prisoner
is released to Mr. Gibbs.
Yes, Excellency.
There's one other thing,
one little thing.
Something I owe
one of your men.
Is it okay
to pay him off?
Certainly.
Thank you.
Get up!
Get up, Habib,
and learn patience.
Gentlemen, I've just had
a good look around.
And in my considered
opinion
we can give an excellent account
of ourselves.
We have an adequate supply
of ammunition,
and there's enough food to
withstand an indefinite siege.
How indefinite,
general?
Well, if we can hold them off
long enough,
the news is bound
to get out.
And then we'll get help.
Look here, Thompson,
you're supposed to be on guard.
Oh, sorry, general.
Extraordinary fellow.
Well, this will
interest you, Paling.
There's even a hospital room
fully equipped.
I know. I removed
His Highness's tonsils
some years ago.
Oh, come on, you chaps.
There's no point
your standing there.
Get back
to your stations.
Where are you going,
my dear?
I'm just finding
my way about.
A bit to the right, Joan.
As long as we keep
a constant watch
they can't possibly
take us by surprise.
Of course,
if they attack in force--
I do not think
they will attack at all.
What makes you think
they won't?
We are protected
by Mr. Gibbs' machine guns.
I'm sure Newah Khan
knows we have them.
Then you've changed
your mind?
No, I will not use them.
But Newah Khan
does not know that.
There may be something
in that, Sir Henry.
Otherwise, why haven't
they attacked?
There's a car coming.
Come on, kid.
Mr. Gibbs!
We thought
you'd been killed.
I was. I came back
to be buried.
Hi.
Hello, Joan.
Hello.
Anybody
buy me a drink?
Is there any particular reason
to celebrate?
Plenty.
I'm back, and you can put away
your pop guns.
The war is over.
May I ask where you got
your information, Mr. Gibbs?
Belapur. Newah Khan.
He let me put a call
through to Bombay.
I've arranged to have a plane
get here sometime tomorrow.
I'm going to fly you
all out.
I am very grateful
for what you've done, Mr. Gibbs.
Oh, I have a message
for you, Singh.
Newah Khan's just as interested
in peace as you are,
but he's not willing
to wait 200 years.
He'll talk terms
anytime you like,
up until midnight.
Tonight?
Or else.
That sounds like an ultimatum.
That's what it is.
Anyway, he asked me
to deliver the message,
and I did.
But as far as I'm concerned,
I wouldn't trust him.
What would you suggest?
To defend yourself
with everything you've got
till a plane arrives.
Then get out
with the rest of us.
And desert my people?
Be logical, Singh. You can't
help them if you're dead.
Besides, you can't talk peace
with an outlaw.
Well, I have until midnight
to find out.
Suit yourself.
Singh, I'm hungry.
Come in.
Grandfather?
Why did you
walk out on me?
Why?
Answer me.
I was overcome, Mr. Gibbs.
Heroes always affect me
that way. I get dizzy.
Why, you're Sir Galahad,
Horatio at the bridge
and Robin Hood all wrapped up
into one.
A beautiful apple,
only there's a worm in it.
They don't know,
but you and I know
that when you left here
you were concerned
with only one thing:
To save your skin.
Well, you seem to have
succeeded.
I don't know
what happened,
or how you got
to Newah Khan,
or even if you got to him
at all.
I don't even know if a plane
is really coming tomorrow
and I don't care.
Ever since we met
so much has happened
that I want to forget.
That I must forget
for my own piece of mind.
The drink we had
together.
Our walk
down the street.
The presents you bought me
in the little shop
with the blue awning,
remember?
It's no longer blue.
You have really decided
to go to Belapur, sir?
Newah Khan has decided.
How long will you
be gone?
Newah Khan will decide.
Please tell my secretary
I want to see him.
He has left the palace.
Oh.
I understand.
Perhaps he thinks
I no longer need a secretary.
Sir, I too wish to leave.
Of course.
Where will you go?
I was born
in the hills.
I hope you will find
peace there.
Ran Singh...
would you like me
to go with you to Belapur?
My good friend,
I would like your company
very much,
but this is one journey
I must make alone.
Then God go with you.
There's nothing
to worry about.
After all, you know,
negotiations take time.
But it's nearly ten hours
since Mr. Singh left.
He should never
have left.
It's my belief
he walked into a trap.
Baited with an offer
of peace
and a telephone call
to Bombay.
What is it?
I hope it's Singh.
Why, Singh.
Forgive me for disturbing you
at breakfast.
We were worried
about you.
What happened, Singh?
Did you see
Newah Khan?
Yes.
The plane is your only chance
to escape alive.
Unfortunately, I could not meet
Newah Khan's terms.
He tried in various ways
to persuade me.
And finally...
he gave me 24 hours
to reconsider.
Forgive me that...
Dr. Paling,
will you come with me, please?
Certainly.
Thank you.
God, they cut off
his hand.
He needs a blood transfusion
immediately.
If it's okay, doctor,
I'd like to give it.
Whoever did this had pretty good
knowledge of surgery.
And a strange way
of negotiating peace.
Newah Khan
doesn't want peace.
He wants Mr. Gibbs'
machine guns.
Why don't you
give them to him?
You're not using them
anyway.
True.
And I will never use them.
But Newah Khan cannot
possibly know that.
I can't figure it.
So you're hipped on the side
till you want freedom
and peace for your people.
But when the chips are down
you won't fight for it.
To give your hand,
what does it get you?
Twenty-four hours,
Mr. Gibbs.
Time for your plane to arrive
and get us out of here.
I can understand dying.
But to give your hand...
Why don't you use it
to fight with?
I am fighting.
How can you fight
if you don't hit back?
Sometimes one wins
by losing.
Oh, you're crazy, Singh.
Are you leaving with us
on the plane?
I must stay here.
And have your other hand
chopped off.
Thank you, Mr. Gibbs.
You know,
we are now
blood brothers.
The machine guns are hidden
in the palace.
Ran Singh will not
use them.
And he will not
let the English use them.
This is very interesting
news indeed.
You will be well rewarded
for your information,
if it is correct.
We will attack
the palace tonight.
Yes, general.
You will go first
with your men
to attract their fire.
If they do not use the machine
guns, we will attack in force.
Yes, general.
And if one machine gun bullet
should be fired at us,
you will curse your mother
for giving birth to you.
Oh, there's nothing out there.
I tell you,
I saw a shadow.
You've been seeing shadows
all night.
But this one moved.
I think it's time
for your relief.
I'll send Conroy.
It did move.
Norton?
Norton.
Mr. Conroy.
Where's Mr. Norton?
I don't know.
Sir Henry asked me
to relieve him.
Come on.
Sir Henry! Sir Henry!
I know, Collins.
Go back to your post.
Cover that room.
General.
Now, don't leave that door,
Conroy.
You'll be all right here.
Ladies, stay in the common hall.
Get to the windows
and don't waste bullets.
Moti Lal, fetch Dr. Paling.
No, go back to your post.
Sir Henry,
I demand that you cease firing.
Are you out of your mind?
Paling, get some water.
Well, Said, looks as if you
gave up your hand for nothing.
I do not understand.
He gave me 24 hours.
Must go and...
Oh, no you don't!
You're not leaving till you
give us those machine guns.
Where are they? Where are they?
I hear the plane.
Come on, come on.
Hold it.
We're leaving.
All of you stay put
till I give the word.
I'll have the plane taxi as
close to the palace as possible.
We need to make a rush for it.
You're coming with us if I have
to drag you on that plane.
I would suggest--
You just feed them lead,
general, while I light the
flares. Come on, Moti Lal.
You chaps go back to your posts.
Holy cow.
He brought the wrong plane.
Go back and tell
General Harrison
there's only room for seven.
Yes, sahib.
Harrison, sahib.
Harrison, sahib.
What is it?
The wrong plane has come.
Gibbs sahib says there will be
room for only seven people.
What are you going to do?
It's quite obvious.
I'm not leaving.
Child, please, you must.
You--
Where to? And with whom?
We'd better hurry,
ma'am sahib.
Will you take a message
to Mr. Gibbs?
Well, aren't you leaving,
ma'am sahib?
Tell him to take good care
of himself in the jungle.
Yes, ma'am sahib.
And tell him the awning
is still blue.
Yes, ma'am sahib.
God bless you, monsieur.
The plane may be able
to come back for us.
We still have a chance
if you will just let us
have those machine guns.
I wish I could, Sir Henry,
but if I did, my whole life
would be a lie.
Singh, this is no time for--
Please try to understand.
We are a tiny state.
Not very important to India
or to the rest of the world,
but how we conduct ourselves,
what we do here,
is very important.
Even if we fail.
I know I've been betrayed,
but I-- I'm--
I must try everything.
I must.
Newah Khan.
Singh!
Newah Khan!
Dr. Paling! Dr. Paling!
He's dead.
Where's Miss Willoughby?
She's not coming.
But she sent a message.
What is it?
She says take good care
of yourself in the jungle.
And she says
the awning is still blue.
Get in, son.
No!
I am not a woman.
Hurry up!
Okay. Take off!
What about you?
I've got business here.
Have you lost your mind?
Try to get us some help.
Get going!
Thompson?
Why do you suppose
they've stopped firing?
I don't know,
but I don't like it.
We'd better be prepared
for anything.
General. There has been
nothing but rifle fire.
They're not using
machine guns.
No, they are not.
But I won't need help.
We will give you the palace
very soon.
Thank you, General.
Joan.
Joan.
What?
You didn't leave.
I couldn't.
I couldn't leave
without you.
Oh, Steve!
Come with me.
Please.
Mr. Gibbs,
why did you come back?
Mr. Willoughby.
I'd like to marry
your granddaughter.
Well, I...
Will you marry us?
Will I..?
All right, Joan?
Please, grandfather.
Singh,
will you
witness this?
Will you...
Steven?
Will you, Steven,
take Joan
to be your lawful
wedded wife,
to love and to cherish
in joy and sorrow,
in health
and sickness,
in prosperity
and adversity,
so long as you both
shall live?
I do.
Do you, Joan,
take Steven
to be your lawful
wedded husband,
to love and to cherish
in joy and sorrow,
in health
and sickness,
in prosperity
and adversity,
so long as you both
shall live?
I do.
I now pronounce you
man and wife.
Whom God
has joined together,
let no man
put asunder.
Amen.
Gibbs?
Here's your gun.
It's yours Moti Lal,
I willed it to you.
Thank you.
It may come in handy a couple
of hundred years from now.
Where are we going?
To ask for help.
Help?
They're going to
batter down the front door.
Everybody,
cover the front entrance.
Blow out that lamp.
It's okay, baby.
Singh.
Dr. Paling!
Dr Paling!
Dr. Paling!
An unidentified plane is
approaching the palace airstrip
for a landing.
Certainly. You'll have a full
report as soon as possible.
Will there be any change
in the plan?
Very well.
We attack Belapur tonight
and Ghandahar will be next.
Thank you, general.
Sorry, sir,
but you cannot land here.
I'm sorry, sir,
I have landed here.
This is the private field
of the Maharaja of Ghandahar.
His Highness
is expecting me.
Oh, I see.
My bag.
I am your man.
Follow me
please.
Come on.
May I see your
papers please?
And would you kindly
open the bag?
Steven X. Gibbs.
Foreigners are leaving
these days.
That we understand.
Foreigners arriving...
Tout d'Amour.
You sell
this perfume?
No, I give it away.
Wrong sex.
It is against the law to bring
firearms into Ghandahar.
Well, I thought I'd do a little
rabbit hunting while I'm here.
There are no rabbits
in Ghandahar.
Well, maybe I could pull
a few out of a hat.
Your gun will be returned to you
when you leave.
How long do you plan
to stay?
I'm leaving as soon as
I see the maharaja.
The maharaja?
He says His Highness
is expecting him.
Why didn't you
tell me?
Come with me please.
I will take you into the palace.
Good deal.
Come on, son.
I will wait, sahib.
Mr. Singh will be
in shortly.
How do you do,
Mr. Gibbs?
Well, how do you do?
Please be seated.
Thank you.
You seem to be
under the impression
that you have an appointment
with the maharaja.
Cigarette?
No, thank you.
Do you mind if I smoke?
Not at all.
Thank you.
When do I get
to see His Highness?
I am in charge
of all his appointments,
both real and imaginary.
Well, you can't shoot a guy
for trying.
What is your business,
Mr. Gibbs?
Insurance.
Insurance?
Life insurance.
Just the kind Your Highness
needs very badly right now.
Please go on.
I've just flown
in 20 machine guns,
200 rifles and 100,000 rounds
of ammunition.
What makes you think
we can use such an arsenal?
Two things:
the British army's moved out
and Nawab Khan
and his guerillas are waiting
in the hills to move him.
Whom do you represent?
Steven X. Gibbs.
Are you by any chance connected
with the American government?
Oh, no, no.
I'm strictly on my own.
My firm is Hashim Garrabin
Company, Bombay.
I'm the company.
I'm afraid you have made a long
trip in vain.
We are not in the market
for guns.
But you ought to be.
You're about to be attacked.
What are you going
to fight them with?
Not with bullets.
They settle nothing.
Except who wins
or who loses.
In war, nobody wins.
Look, I'm not selling you war.
I'm selling you defense.
Mr. Gibbs, I had every hope that
I could contain the tribesmen
without violence.
We were in the midst
of peaceful negotiations.
They have been watching me
to see if I made any false move.
And Mr. Gibbs, you may have made
that false move for me.
Just by coming here.
Relax, Mr. Singh,
I haven't got a press agent.
Nobody knows what I brought
in my plane.
In this part of the world,
men can see what is hidden.
They can hear
what has not yet been said.
Mr. Singh--
Tell me,
you did not by any chance bring
any medical supplies
in your plane?
Streptomycin.
Penicillin.
No, but I wish I had.
But right now
I'm selling guns.
We are not interested
in your guns.
Well, in that case,
I guess I'll have to sell them
to somebody else.
Nawab Kahn perhaps.
You know, I--
I never thought about that.
Good afternoon, Mr. Gibbs.
Look, Mr. Singh,
what's a good time
to see His Highness?
Good-bye, Mr. Gibbs.
I'll be seeing you.
Give me the airstrip.
I want the cargo of Mr. Gibbs'
plane confiscated.
And load it at once and keep it
under seal until further notice.
Sahib, here is your gun.
It may be useful, sahib.
Well, you're gonna be pretty
useful yourself.
I am your man.
What's your name?
Moti Lal.
Moti Lal.
Where di you get this scar?
I fight.
Fight?
Yes, sahib.
You ever win?
I have one scar.
My enemy has many.
You know all the answers,
don't you?
Yes, sahib.
Okay, then.
Tell me, what do you know about
a man named Nawab Khan?
Didn't you hear what I said?
Yes, sahib.
I thought you knew
all the answers.
This one I do not know,
sahib.
Bags to Morrison.
Goodbye. I hate to go,
but after all.
Not me.
I'm glad to go.
And I advise all of you to leave
before the trouble starts.
From what I hear,
there's going to be plenty.
Everything will be all right.
Good bye, dear.
Goodbye, Alvin.
Goodbye, Mrs. Carmichael.
Hope I see you in London.
Goodbye.
We're going
To see Matilda May
We're going
To see Matilda May
We're going
To see Matilda May
And take one how do you do?
Good morning, sire.
You got a nice room with a bath?
Uh, we have several nice rooms
without a bath.
I need a bath more
than I need a room.
If you don't mean waiting
a few minutes,
a nice room with a nice bath
will be vacated.
That's fine.
Uh, if you'd be good enough
to register.
What the devil
are you doing?
I'm sorry, Sir Henry.
We have orders
to take down the sign.
Listen, everybody.
They've taken our sign down.
You consider that
a major disaster?
Why, this parlor has been
exclusively British
since the hotel was built
in 1881.
But, Sir Henry, this is 1947.
Look at this.
Look!
A genuine Kashan silk
prayer rug.
Nothing in my collection
to compare with it.
Hello, my dear. Picked it up
for a mere trifle.
You have no idea
how prices have come down.
What's up?
We've practically
been evicted.
Evicted?
They've taken our sign.
I've been listening to some
of you talk like this for weeks.
And you might as well
get this into your heads.
Things have changed.
And if you want to stay here,
you have to change too.
Ah, good heavens, Joan!
We belong here.
Yes, if you're willing to accept
the changed conditions.
It's their country,
and we're just guests here.
And the sooner we realize it,
the better.
Atta-girl.
That's telling 'em.
Thank you, whoever you are.
Thank you.
You're welcome.
Sahib.
You're room is ready.
Oh fine.
Come in.
What is it?
Oh, monsieur, forgive me.
Oh, that's perfectly all right.
Oh, I could come back
later.
Oh, no. Stick around.
I'll be out in a second.
Okay.
What can I do for you?
Monsieur.
Monsieur.
You can save my life.
What are you
dying of?
You the man who gives
this money by plane.
The name is Gibbs.
My name
is Lizette Damon.
Your neighbor.
Neighbor?
I'm staying at the hotel.
Glad to know you,
neighbor.
Monsieur Gibbs,
you can be my good angel.
Oh?
You have just the wings I need.
Oh.
You're checking out.
That's my greatest need.
I must somehow get
to Bombay at once.
What can you get in Bombay
that you can't get here?
I have a good friend
in Bombay.
How good?
Mr. Rollins,
the American consul.
He's my guardian.
I talked to him only
on the phone this morning.
He's very worried
about conditions here.
He urged me to leave
at the first opportunity.
And you want to hitch a ride
in my plane?
Alors! You've said it.
Might be.
It's possible?
Could be.
Moti Lal.
Yes, sahib.
We're out
of cigarettes.
Run down
and get a carton.
Yes, sahib.
Would you do something
for me?
If I can.
Scratch my back.
When do you plan
to leave?
Couple of days.
Mm. Feels good.
A little more to the left.
Here?
Further up.
Ah.
Ah.
Uh, you know, you've got
to understand.
I'm in business.
No free rides.
But of course. Unfortunately,
my funds are tied up.
You know
how those banks are.
I've been waiting for my money
for days, and it does not come,
but, naturally,
I'll pay for my fare
in Bombay.
C.O.D.?
"C.O.D." What is that?
Collect on delivery.
That is it, monsieur.
Oh, it is, huh?
Oh, Tout d'Amour.
Yeah, I never travel
without it.
That's my favorite too.
May I?
Sure.
Thank you.
Mm.
You know
I have a partner.
He's a very strict
businessman.
I don't think
he'd like this C.O.D.
With him,
it's P.I.A.
"P.I.A."?
Pay in advance.
Oh.
Well, I guess I'll have
to raise the money somehow.
I'm afraid so.
It's a commercial plane.
Would tonight
be soon enough?
Certainly.
Here.
With my compliments.
Why, thank you.
You're most generous.
See you tonight?
Au revoir, monsieur.
For you, Charlie.
Oh, thank you,
sahib.
You can tell me
where I can locate Nawab Khan.
What the matter
with everybody around here?
Forget it.
Good evening, Mr. Gibbs.
I don't suppose you
remember me.
Oh, you're the girl you told off
those fuddy-duddies
this morning.
They're not really
fuddy-duddies.
Everybody's a bit edgy. We've
been under quite a tension.
But it was rude to slam the door
in your face.
Oh, well.
Have a drink?
Thank you.
What are you having?
Well, I asked for Scotch,
but it tastes like kerosene.
Oh, one kerosene
and soda please.
Really, Mr. Gibbs. You've
committed a grave social error
enquiring after that man.
Heh, heh.
Don't you know that Nawab Khan
is a bad word around Ghandahar?
As far as I'm concerned,
Ghandahar is a bad word.
Well, you don't seem to like
the whiskey, you don't seem
to like our town.
Forgive me for intruding.
Oh, no. Please.
Have your drink.
Cigarette?
Thanks.
I hope you don't find me
too forward.
I was only trying
to be a committee of one
to welcome the stranger
in our midst.
And to thank you
for applauding me this morning.
I'm very fond of applause
and I must--
What happened?
The lights went out.
...does not see very well.
What he means, Mr. Gibbs,
I'm as blind as a bat.
Oh, I'm sorry.
I'm very sorry.
I had no idea.
But you don't act a bit like--
Like a bat? Heh.
Oh, it's silly, but I like
to fool people.
Especially new people.
Thanks for the drink,
Mr. Gibbs.
But you haven't
touched it.
I think I ought to be
starting for home.
May I--?
May I get you a tonga?
Oh, no. It isn't far.
And I like to walk.
Besides, my maid
is waiting for me.
Good night,
Mr. Gibbs.
Do you mind if I...
walk with you a way?
No, of course not.
Tayhi.
I've just heard
from the power house at Belapur.
The think it's sabotage.
I should have told you
about those cobblestones.
They're very tricky here.
You know
you're terrific?
All you need is practice.
Someone to give you
a hand.
My grandfather
deserves all the credit.
Mind if I give you
a little credit?
Well, maybe a good mark
for effort.
What can one do? Sit in
a corner and cry one's eyes out?
You can't just give up,
can you?
Right in the middle
of a promising career.
Career?
Didn't I tell you?
I'm a professional guide.
I show tourists the teeming life
of Ghandahar.
The highways and the by ways,
the shops and the bazaars.
Walk up, walk up. Right across
the street to your right
is the establishment
of Nitra Putra.
You see it?
The one with the blue awning.
Care to drop in and buy
a souvenir for your wife?
Or your girlfriend?
That's an idea,
but I'll need some help.
Well, I can't be much help
unless I know something
about her.
Or you.
About me? I can tell you that
in four words.
I fly for money.
Heh, heh. That's what I call
a rich, full,
colorful description
of a man's life.
Could you spare a few of the
lurid details off the record?
Well, I was a couple of years
in ??? with Chennault.
Flying tigers,
how thrilling.
How did you come
to join them?
The pay was higher.
Heh. Come on.
Heaven born.
Hello, Charlie.
What have you got?
I have jewels, moon stones
and sapphires.
??? and ???.
Sandalwood boxes. A beautiful
bracelet for your lady.
Ah, let's see.
Maybe she'd like a ring.
Good, a ring.
Ah-hah.
Ah-hah. The most precious.
It was once
in the maharaja's collection.
I cannot bear to part with it.
How much?
I know Miss Willoughby.
I sometimes attend her
grandfather's church.
I wish no profit.
The ring cost me 500 rupees.
Sold.
Wait.
Take it for 400 rupees.
The finest of jade.
In these uncertain times,
one must make sacrifices.
Three hundred rupees.
Sold.
She wants my very blood.
Fifty rupees.
One hundred rupees.
Fifty.
Heaven born, take it as a gift
for 100 rupees.
Fifty.
Impossible.
Come along, Mr. Gibbs.
Sahib.
Take it for 50.
Sold.
You must admit
I drive a hard bargain.
Just a minute.
For my lady friend.
Oh, no. You musn't.
I--
Uh. I couldn't.
Please.
Thank you...
so much.
Say, how did you know
that awning was blue?
Oh, I saw it
when I was 10.
It was
the most beautiful blue.
It still is.
What is that?
Oh, that's the maharaja's car.
Wait here for me.
Be right back.
Your Highness,
my name is Gibbs. Steve Gibbs!
Is he hurt?
No.
How do you like that?
All I did was introduced myself.
I was knocked flat on my--
My opening remark.
Well, one doesn't jump
on the running board
to meet the maharaja.
One doesn't meet
the maharaja at all
without seeing Ram Singh.
That crackpot?
He's the maharaja's right arm.
Also his eyes and his ears,
sometimes his heart.
Well, sure isn't
his brains.
I know His Highness
quite well.
Perhaps I can arrange
an appointment for you.
Baby-- I mean Miss...
No, baby. I like it.
Oh, if you can fix that up for
me, you can name your own price.
Oh, don't be rash, Mr. Gibbs.
No, I mean it.
Well, you may not be able
to meet my terms.
Sky's the limit.
Well, brace yourself.
You don't know
what you're in for.
What?
A picnic.
Huh?
If I arrange an appointment
for you,
you have to take me
on a picnic.
You know, sandwiches and potato
salad and ants. Plenty of ants.
Sold. But, uh, supposing you
can't make that appointment?
Well, then, I'll have
to take you on a picnic.
When do you think you
can talk to His Highness?
Soon.
You're a wonderful dancer,
Miss Willoughby.
Practice, Mr. Gibbs.
Practice, a gramophone,
and Grandfather.
Oh no. Please don't.
Don't what?
Feel sorry for me.
Really, it's not too bad.
It's fun meeting people,
and figuring out
what they look like.
What do I look like?
Your face is...
good.
Mr. Steven Gibbs?
That's me.
I am Azam Habib,
a broker.
What's on your mind?
Twenty machine guns.
Two hundred rifles.
A hundred thousand
rounds of ammunition.
For a client of mine.
Would you mind telling me
your client's name?
My client prefers not to have
his identity revealed.
Would it be convenient to call
on you tomorrow about noon?
I guess so.
When can you deliver
the merchandise?
Any time you want.
Good. I will take
possession tomorrow.
Hey.
Don't you think we ought to
agree on a price before...
before you take delivery?
We will agree on a price.
Hey.
What are you
doing here?
I am your man.
Sure. Sure. But that doesn't
make you my roommate does it?
It is the custom.
What about your
parents?
Won't they be
worried?
I have no parents, Sahab.
Where do you live?
Here.
Do you snore?
No, sahab.
Okay.
Oh, thank you!
Sahab?
Yeah?
When you employ a man,
it is the custom to discuss the
matter of wages.
How much is it
the custom to pay?
I would be happy if
you gave me your gun.
And I'd be very unhappy to part
with it.
Perhaps you will leave it to me
in your will.
You got a deal, kid.
But I'm not figuring on kicking
off for some time.
I will wait, Sahab.
Hello.
This is Joan.
Mr. Gibbs, I've got some bad
news for you.
You're going to take me on a
picnic.
When?
Right after you you've
seen the Maharajah.
The Maha--
I've arranged an appointment
for you at eleven in the
morning.
Oh, baby.
Hey, how about you
being my manager?
It's well worth considering.
I'll take it up with my
grandfather.
Grandfather?
I would like you
to meet him.
It's Mr. Gibbs.
How do you do,
Mr. Gibbs?
Hello, Mr. Willoughby.
I've been hearing a great deal
about you.
Mr. Gibbs, it occurred to me
that perhaps you'd like to
attend services at my church on
Sunday.
Church?
Uh... sure.
Sure. Mr. Willoughby.
That is, if I'm here
on Sunday.
Oh, I do hope so,
Mr. Gibbs.
With all this exodus going on,
attendence has dropped--
It's me again.
I do think it's shameful
the way Grandfather pounces on
every new arrival.
I've got the picnic all planned.
It's the most beautiful place.
Little island in the middle
of a lake.
Do you like
deviled eggs?
Oh... I'm mad about
deviled eggs.
I'll do hundreds.
Wait'll you see the basket I'm
planning.
It'll have everything including
pickles and a gramophone.
I'll bring the ants.
Splendid.
Oh, by the way...
what's the color
of your eyes?
Why... kinda blue?
Something like that awning.
I knew it.
Good night.
Good night, Joan.
Good night, Steve.
Hussy.
I know it.
What is wrong,
Sahab?
Nothing.
Look at the fire.
What's the name of that
town over there?
Belapur.
If you have to find
Newah Khan,
he is there now
burning the city.
I did not expect the attack on
Belapur last night.
I suggest that you communicate
with your British High
Commissioner in New Delhi.
And arrange for a convoy.
Convoy?
Why should we
have to leave here by convoy?
Why should we have
to leave at all?
I couldn't possibly leave
without my rugs.
Those who wish to remain,
will have to do so
at their own risk.
Get in touch with the rest of
the British residents.
Well, since I have no intention
of leaving,
Miss Simone can have my place in
the convoy.
Oh please.
I'm very grateful
for your kindness,
but I've made other
arrangements.
I am sure you can settle all
those details
with the
High Commissioner.
Give me one regiment and
I'll settle it myself.
Sir Henry, I do not share your
faith in regiments.
Well then how are you prepared
to guarantee our safety?
Unfortunately, I have no
way of doing that.
Then there is no point in
wasting any more time.
Good day.
Claudia.
Joan, please do
think it over.
I'm not afraid,
Ram.
We'll be
all right.
Good bye, Mr. Singh.
Good bye, Doctor.
I know how busy
you have been--
Not too busy to
telegraph Bombay.
And the visa?
It will be issued.
If I can vouch
for you.
I realize we met for the first
time yesterday,
and you know about me only what
I told you,
but do you have any
more questions?
One or two. Please,
do sit down.
Perhaps my friend, the American
counsel, might want some
further details about the
purpose of your trip to America.
What shall I say?
Well...
it's just that I would
like to settle down.
What if, in America, you do not
find what you are looking for?
I'll just have to
keep on looking.
Yes, Your
Highness?
Ram, can you spare
a moment?
Certainly,
Your Highness.
I'm afraid the Maharajah's idea
of a moment is quite vague.
I will dictate the
letter this afternoon,
and send it to
your hotel.
I would be happy to
call for it myself.
If it would not
inconvenience you.
Not at all.
Thank you so much.
Au revoir Monsieur.
Good morning,
Your Highness.
Hi.
Good morning,
Mr. Gibbs.
My dear friend,
have you had breakfast?
Hours ago, thank you.
He thinks I get up too late.
Most difficult man.
Sit down, old chap.
Ram...
you know that I never interfere
with you.
But don't you think you're being
hasty in refusing
to do business with
our friend?
Your Highness, I've been
thinking the matter over.
Good.
The more I think about it, the
more I am convinced
that it would be
bad business.
See what I mean?
A stubborn man. Implaccable.
Dear boy, how can I
persuade you?
Why not tell him?
You're the boss.
Only when Ram isn't around,
and he's always around.
None of you are going to be
around much longer
if Newah attacks
Ghandahar.
My friends, the British, never
took him seriously.
Is that why they paid him
off every year?
I wanted to pay
him off also,
but you wouldn't let me. Never
should have let you overrule me.
You told me those blighters
didn't hate me.
You said they'd stop fighting.
It is not hatred that makes them
fight. It is fear.
And those who are the most
frightened,
are the ones who commit the
greatest violence.
If they should learn that we are
arming against them--
There we go again.
What Mr. Singh is trying to
say--
I know what Singh
is trying to say, but it's a lot
of bilge.
Everybody knows those birds are
gunning for you,
and if you don't gun back--
Mr. Gibbs has only one interest.
And that is to sell his guns.
I'm sorry Your Highness, but I'm
fed up with this jabberwocky.
If you're not interested in my
proposition, somebody else is.
We're aware of that.
That is why I thought it best to
impound your cargo.
You what?
I have confiscated
your guns.
Stop your clowing, Singh.
You know there is a law against
bringing weapons into Ghandahar.
You were informed of it
when you arrived.
Hello.
It's for Mr. Singh,
Your Highness.
Hello.
Yes, put it through.
You will be given a
receipt for your cargo.
It will be returned
to you at our expense.
Yes?
I see.
What is it, Ram?
The bus that left
yesterday,
was attacked
on the road.
No one
was spared.
I saw that bus
leave the hotel.
There were women
and children on it.
The kids were singing
as the bus pulled out.
Nice work, Singh.
You can send that
receipt to the hotel.
Most unfortunate about the bus,
but at any rate,
we have the guns.
I can leave with a clear
conscience now.
You are planning a trip,
Your Highness?
Didn't I tell you?
I thought a few weeks on the
Riviera.
I've not been feeling ver
well lately.
My sinus.
I understand,
Your Highness.
I hope you have a
speedy recovery.
Get the hangar.
Have my plane
tuned up.
What in the world
kept you?
Where's the driver?
I couldn't find a driver who
would leave Ghandahar,
for love or money.
Oh, Corbett, you're not going to
be frightened away
by a bonfire.
See that.
There they go.
Heaven knows where.
And we're going too.
You'd better leave too.
Cheerio.
Bye everyone.
Bye.
I must leave you
after today.
Oh, what happened,
Tayhi?
My mother has been taken
very ill.
I understand.
I'm very sorry,
Tayhi.
We've been together
for so long.
I shall miss you
very much.
I'm not happy
to go.
I'll go.
Hi.
Hi.
Steve.
Have you seen the
Maharajah?
I just left
him.
How did you
make out?
I shouldn't
have come here.
The way things look now, this is
a place to get out of and fast.
Yes. We had a
conference with Ram Singh.
There's some talk
of a convoy.
There won't be time
for a convoy.
Or a picnic.
I know.
We're leaving by
plane for Bombay.
We?
Um hmm.
You and I and
your grandfather.
I can't.
Why?
I'm afraid.
Of what?
Bombay.
Oh, come, now, Joan,
you're not afraid of anything.
Why should Bombay
frighten you?
I know, Steve.
To you,
it's just another city,
but to me...
it could be like...
like a new planet.
I was born here.
I've never been
anywhere else.
I'd have to start
all over.
I'd be helpless again.
I couldn't bear that.
I know.
But you wouldn't have
to stay in Bombay.
When things quiet down around
here, you could come back.
I'll bring you back.
You'll bring...?
You will?
Promise.
When do you think
you'll leave?
Tonight.
Oh, Steve, I--
Now, you start
getting packed.
But what about
the others?
Would there be room in the plane
for some of them?
Now, look, Joan, I...
Sure.
Why not?
There's plenty of room.
They've been whistling
in the dark,
but some of them
are terribly worried.
You come on
and get ready.
I will.
Where's your grandfather?
At the church.
Will you get a hold
of him right away?
Have him round up
everybody else.
Arrange a meeting at 4:00
at the hotel.
I'll gas up my plane
and come back for you.
And we'll have that picnic
on the plane.
Steve.
You're terrific.
You go on in.
I'll be right there.
Mr. Habib.
My name is not Habib.
Well, if you run into
this Habib,
tell him that cargo of mine
he was interested in is--
You have no cargo.
News travels fast
around here, doesn't it?
Quite.
The Maharajah's plane.
His highness decided
quite suddenly
to go to the Riviera
for the winter.
Sir Gibbs,
the French lady
has been looking for you.
Where is she?
In her room.
Tell her to start packing.
Yes, sir.
Good afternoon,
everybody.
Good afternoon.
Come in, Steve.
I understand some of you
people are interested
in getting transportation
out of Ghandahar.
As Mr. Singh suggested,
we've just put in a call
to New Delhi
to arrange for a convoy.
Want to listen to lullabies
or can you stand a few facts?
I believe Mr. Singh
gave us all the facts.
Did he tell you why the bus
that left yesterday
never reached Nurban?
It was attacked.
There were no survivors.
The Morrisons.
That's fact number one.
Fact number two.
The Maharajah just left
in his plane, heading south.
Fact number three. I'm
pulling out myself for Bombay.
But I can handle
some passengers.
When do you plan
to leave?
7:00 tonight.
Well, that's rather
short notice, isn't it?
This time tomorrow, Ghandahar's
liable to be a butcher shop.
How many people
can your plane accommodate?
Twenty in a pinch.
A tight pinch.
Well, what about luggage?
My rugs?
Rugs? No rugs, no luggage.
Just passengers.
May I ask what your fare is
to Bombay?
A thousand rupees.
But that's double
the usual rate.
Costs a lot of money
to fly my plane here.
And as far as I'm concerned,
this is a round trip.
Can't you see Mr. Gibbs
is joking?
I never joke about money.
I'm a commercial pilot.
That's how I make my living.
You ought to be ashamed.
Downright thievery.
Taking advantage.
No better than Khan.
That just sent the rate
up to 2,000 rupees.
Sir Henry,
I cannot get New Delhi.
All telephone and telegraph
lines outside Ghandahar
have been cut.
Well, that's good news
for you, isn't it, Gibbs?
It means your plane's
the only way to get out.
A really enterprising
swindler
could possibly get
as high as 10,000 rupees.
Thanks for the tip.
I'll take it.
The rate is now
10,000 rupees.
Gibbs, you're
a blackmailing scoundrel.
Cash, in advance.
But no extra charge
for calling me names.
Oh, go to the devil.
My plane leaves at 7:00 sharp.
Take it or leave it.
Naturally, Joan, that doesn't go
for you or your grandfather.
Joan. Joan.
Don't touch me.
I'm all right.
I'm all right.
We're checking out.
Pack my stuff.
Sir...
I am not your man.
The clock is
five minutes slow.
Where are the bellboys?
They have all gone.
Come on, Frenchy.
You've both been
so very kind.
You're leaving?
Yes, on Monsieur Gibbs' plane.
Don't you think his rate
is rather high?
Oh, but I'm going
as his guest.
Let's go, Frenchy.
Yes, ch?ri.
Goodbye, Miss Willoughby.
Miss Simone?
Yes?
Yes, Miss Willoughby?
A little present.
Thank you.
I wish you
a safe journey.
Thank you.
Joan...
Please.
To the airstrip.
That's the Corbetts' parrot.
Have the Corbetts
come back?
No, child.
Henry, we've got
to get out of here.
But, Claudia, how?
In a tonga?
There's still
Mr. Gibbs' plane.
Are you suggesting we submit to
the blackmail of that scoundrel?
Yes, Henry, yes, please.
Blackmail or not, it's
the only way left to get out.
In any event,
it's too late.
No, it isn't.
Ahbek. Ahbek, get me
Mr. Singh at the palace.
Ahbek?
Ahbek ran away.
Gone.
Gone?
Yes, ma'am.
Oh.
Moti Lal, help me, please.
Yes, ma'am.
Get me Mr. Singh
at the palace, quickly.
Seven-seven-nine.
I'm leaving at 7:00,
and I won't wait a second.
I'll be there, ch?ri.
Hi, Charlie.
Sorry, sir. Nobody's permitted
to enter the plane.
What do you mean?
This is my plane.
Yes, but I have orders
from Singh.
Oh.
Nice guy, Singh.
But I thought he had strict
rules against carrying guns.
That does not apply to
his highness' private police.
Oh?
Cigarette?
I am not permitted to smoke
while on duty.
Okay.
Take this letter directly
on your typewriter.
Yes, sir.
I am ready.
Mr. John Rollins,
American Consulate, Bombay.
My dear Rollins.
This will introduce you
to my friend
Miss Lizette Simone.
I assure you
there is ample time.
But the plane is leaving
at 7:00,
and Monsieur Gibbs said
he won't wait one second.
The plane will not leave
until the other passengers
have arrived.
Oh, I didn't know there were
going to be other passengers.
Neither did Mr. Gibbs.
Please do sit down.
My good friend
Miss Simone
wishes to visit
your country,
and for this purpose
requires a visa.
Miss Simone is a lady
whose charm and beauty
are exceeded
only by her good character,
for which...
I have the honor
to vouch.
Oh, monsieur.
With kindest regards,
sincerely, your friend.
That's all.
Bring this right in.
Monsieur...
I'll try to live up to...
the beautiful lies
you have just written.
It is not a lie,
Miss Simone.
You are the kindest person
I have ever known.
Oh, thank you.
Monsieur Singh,
what are you
going to do?
About what?
When the plane departs,
there will be no other way
to leave Ghandahar.
For a while, perhaps.
Could it be possible that
you too might be a passenger?
I would like very much
to be a passenger,
but my place is here.
Monsieur,
you're a brave man.
No. I am
a very frightened man.
Monsieur...
I want to...
Leaving without me?
Pig!
Come on! Cochon!
Get away, fast!
Is he hurt?
No, he's all right.
God moves
in mysterious ways,
his wonders to perform.
For years I have been trying
to entice you into my church,
but I've never been able to get
more than one or two of you.
Now, by an act
of providence,
I have you all
at my mercy.
But I'll not
take advantage of it.
I won't inflict
a sermon on you.
Why not?
Why don't you preach
a funeral sermon
for the people
on the bus
and the Corbetts
and for us?
Joan?
You're all going to die
because one blackguard
wanted to make some money
out of you.
Preach about that.
Perhaps you'll make a convert.
Joan, stop it.
Mr. Gibbs,
I have just been informed
that you used force
to get your plane.
Didn't think I was going to
let you confiscate it, did you?
I was merely holding it until
the other passengers arrived.
Don't look now,
but your halo's showing.
I regret that the guard
found it necessary
to shoot at your tire.
I'm afraid
it will not be safe
for any of you
to return to the hotel.
The palace seems to be
the only refuge available.
I beg of you
to be my guests
until the emergency
is over.
Of course, Mr. Gibbs,
that includes you.
These men will show you
to your rooms.
Will the gentlemen
please remain a moment?
Gentlemen, the tribesmen
are in Kandahar.
They're getting close.
That means we're next.
Do you suppose
they'll attack the palace?
Who knows?
Well, even if they do,
we're not entirely helpless.
Far from it.
There are some factors
in our favor.
Why, between us
and the palace guards--
Most of the guards
have deserted.
That's a break.
At least we won't
get shot in the back.
Well, as a matter of fact we're
well situated for the fence.
There's only one approach
to the palace,
and that's from the front.
What about the airstrip?
No, they can't possibly
reach it,
except through
the palace grounds.
They can't get through
if we concentrate our fire
in that direction.
With the proper gunpower,
we--
What can you give us,
Singh, in the way of arms?
I'm afraid there are none
I can put at your disposal.
That's not true, Singh.
I came here with a planeload
of guns and ammunition.
He's got it stashed
someplace.
I have no intention
of using it.
Oh, you think
they won't attack.
I know I won't resist.
Are you trying to say you
intend to surrender the palace
without a fight?
The palace is nothing.
Mortar and stones.
Dust. I'm not concerned
with buildings.
But all we ask is a chance
to defend ourselves.
Surely you can't
deny us that.
I cannot permit machine guns
to be turned
against my own people,
or any people.
So that's what
you're going to do
with your newly won
precious freedom.
Sure, hand it over on a silver
platter to those tribesmen.
We will ask them
to share it.
It took us 200 years
of struggle,
but we finally got our freedom
without firing a bullet.
Perhaps it will take
another 200 years
before we can find peace.
In the meantime
we're going to sit here
and be butchered
like sheep.
It's all very well for you
to die for your principles,
but you can't ask us
to die for them.
Look, you're wasting
your time.
Those guns aren't his.
They're mine.
And I'm throwing them
in the kitty for free.
Well, where are they?
I'm sorry, gentlemen.
Those guns
will not be used.
He's not just a fanatic,
he's a lunatic.
Who can be sure?
Perhaps we all are.
Perhaps the whole world's
a lunatic.
Mr. Gibbs.
Would you like to be shown
to your quarters?
You don't think I want to be
caught in this rat trap, do you?
I'm getting out.
When do you plan to leave?
Right now.
I wish you well.
Never mind that. How about
paying me for my plane?
Of course. How much?
Two hundred thousand
rupees, cash.
Very well.
Paling.
Here you are,
Mr. Gibbs.
I noticed a couple of jeeps
on the airstrip.
I'd like to buy one.
I'd be glad to present you
with one.
No, thanks.
I pay as I go.
Thank you.
I'm looking
for the trophy room.
I think it's just here,
isn't it?
This looks like it.
Thank you.
Listen, Joan.
Listen hard.
I just bought a jeep from Singh.
I'm getting out.
Pleasant journey.
I want to take you
with me.
Thank you, no.
Look, I can't guarantee
we'll come out alive.
We got one chance
in maybe 100,
but it's better
than nothing.
I've got a gun
and a half a million rupees.
What do you say?
I'd rather stay with my friends,
if you don't mind.
What's eating you?
Don't you want to live?
Not in your kind of world.
I'm not asking you
to live with me.
I'm giving you a chance
to survive.
You're an expert at that.
Look, lay off that piano,
will you?
This is no time for a concert.
Mr. Gibbs,
I'm blind but not deaf.
What do you know about my world?
You've never been in it.
It's a jungle.
And if you weren't wrapped up
in that pink gauze,
you'd know it was
a free-for-all.
Oh, I understand
your jungle.
So you step on a few toes,
hit below the belt.
Kick, gouge,
anything goes.
Sure. That's how you get by.
And it's about time
somebody put you hip to it.
You've done your bit,
and I don't thank you
for it.
Joan.
Oh, go on back to sleep.
I saw it when I was 10.
It was the most
beautiful blue.
The most beautiful blue.
The most beautiful blue.
I want to see Newah Khan.
Newah Khan.
Habib. Boy, am I glad
to see you.
Permit me to apologize
for this man's behavior.
That's all right. I like being
robbed and kicked around.
This ignorant fool
has delusions of grandeur.
I am Newah Khan,
at your service.
What are you
standing there for?
Why don't you get
the gentleman a chair.
Yes, general.
There's your gun.
And your money.
Sit down.
Where exactly were you
planning to go?
Here to see you.
Thank you. I'm honored.
And how can I be
of service to you?
I want a pass
to leave Kandahar
for me and a few
of my friends.
I would be most happy
to issue them,
but they would be of no use
to you whatsoever.
You and your friends
almost certainly
would be shot down
by snipers
before you had a chance
to show your passes.
I'll take that chance,
general.
I will not.
I can't afford to.
If hard came to any one of you,
it would be most regrettable.
I want no foreigners hurt.
Excuse me.
I thought the wires
were down.
Only out of Kandahar.
We hope to have everything
back to normal in a short time.
Can you get long distance?
Certainly.
I'll pay you 100,000 rupees
for one telephone call
to Bombay.
You're quite welcome to use
the telephone free of charge.
Whom do you wish to call
in Bombay?
My partner.
For what purpose?
To get a plane
to pick us up.
I see no objection,
providing you confine
the conversation to just that.
Absolutely.
If you try to say any more,
you'll be cut off.
And not by the operator.
Now, what is the number
you wish to call?
Bombay 1-1-3-2-1-5.
How many Europeans do you plan
to take with you, Mr. Gibbs?
All of them.
Including General Harrison?
Yes.
That will leave Ran Singh
with 20 machine guns,
200 rifles and 100,000 rounds
of ammunition.
When you get back
to Bombay,
you can tell the truth
about who is the real aggressor.
Bombay.
Choose your words
carefully.
Hello?
Azam? This is Gibbs.
Hold it.
I can't answer
any questions.
My plane cracked up
and I'm stuck here.
Bring the other plane
to Kandahar right away.
Quick.
And I mean quick.
General, I don't know
how to thank you.
If there's ever anything
I can do for you--
There is something.
You can deliver a message
for me to Ran Singh.
Tell him if he really
wants peace,
he can have it before
there's any more bloodshed.
Tell him he has
until midnight tonight
to come here to discuss
terms of settlement.
Okay.
Been a pleasure
meeting you, general.
The pleasure is mutual.
Can I be of any
further service?
Oh, yes.
There is something.
I noticed some prisoners
at the Kandahar Hotel.
Some saboteurs.
Subversive elements.
We've taken them
into protective custody.
Well, among them is a boy
named Moti Lal.
I'd like to take him
to Bombay with me.
Of course. See that the prisoner
is released to Mr. Gibbs.
Yes, Excellency.
There's one other thing,
one little thing.
Something I owe
one of your men.
Is it okay
to pay him off?
Certainly.
Thank you.
Get up!
Get up, Habib,
and learn patience.
Gentlemen, I've just had
a good look around.
And in my considered
opinion
we can give an excellent account
of ourselves.
We have an adequate supply
of ammunition,
and there's enough food to
withstand an indefinite siege.
How indefinite,
general?
Well, if we can hold them off
long enough,
the news is bound
to get out.
And then we'll get help.
Look here, Thompson,
you're supposed to be on guard.
Oh, sorry, general.
Extraordinary fellow.
Well, this will
interest you, Paling.
There's even a hospital room
fully equipped.
I know. I removed
His Highness's tonsils
some years ago.
Oh, come on, you chaps.
There's no point
your standing there.
Get back
to your stations.
Where are you going,
my dear?
I'm just finding
my way about.
A bit to the right, Joan.
As long as we keep
a constant watch
they can't possibly
take us by surprise.
Of course,
if they attack in force--
I do not think
they will attack at all.
What makes you think
they won't?
We are protected
by Mr. Gibbs' machine guns.
I'm sure Newah Khan
knows we have them.
Then you've changed
your mind?
No, I will not use them.
But Newah Khan
does not know that.
There may be something
in that, Sir Henry.
Otherwise, why haven't
they attacked?
There's a car coming.
Come on, kid.
Mr. Gibbs!
We thought
you'd been killed.
I was. I came back
to be buried.
Hi.
Hello, Joan.
Hello.
Anybody
buy me a drink?
Is there any particular reason
to celebrate?
Plenty.
I'm back, and you can put away
your pop guns.
The war is over.
May I ask where you got
your information, Mr. Gibbs?
Belapur. Newah Khan.
He let me put a call
through to Bombay.
I've arranged to have a plane
get here sometime tomorrow.
I'm going to fly you
all out.
I am very grateful
for what you've done, Mr. Gibbs.
Oh, I have a message
for you, Singh.
Newah Khan's just as interested
in peace as you are,
but he's not willing
to wait 200 years.
He'll talk terms
anytime you like,
up until midnight.
Tonight?
Or else.
That sounds like an ultimatum.
That's what it is.
Anyway, he asked me
to deliver the message,
and I did.
But as far as I'm concerned,
I wouldn't trust him.
What would you suggest?
To defend yourself
with everything you've got
till a plane arrives.
Then get out
with the rest of us.
And desert my people?
Be logical, Singh. You can't
help them if you're dead.
Besides, you can't talk peace
with an outlaw.
Well, I have until midnight
to find out.
Suit yourself.
Singh, I'm hungry.
Come in.
Grandfather?
Why did you
walk out on me?
Why?
Answer me.
I was overcome, Mr. Gibbs.
Heroes always affect me
that way. I get dizzy.
Why, you're Sir Galahad,
Horatio at the bridge
and Robin Hood all wrapped up
into one.
A beautiful apple,
only there's a worm in it.
They don't know,
but you and I know
that when you left here
you were concerned
with only one thing:
To save your skin.
Well, you seem to have
succeeded.
I don't know
what happened,
or how you got
to Newah Khan,
or even if you got to him
at all.
I don't even know if a plane
is really coming tomorrow
and I don't care.
Ever since we met
so much has happened
that I want to forget.
That I must forget
for my own piece of mind.
The drink we had
together.
Our walk
down the street.
The presents you bought me
in the little shop
with the blue awning,
remember?
It's no longer blue.
You have really decided
to go to Belapur, sir?
Newah Khan has decided.
How long will you
be gone?
Newah Khan will decide.
Please tell my secretary
I want to see him.
He has left the palace.
Oh.
I understand.
Perhaps he thinks
I no longer need a secretary.
Sir, I too wish to leave.
Of course.
Where will you go?
I was born
in the hills.
I hope you will find
peace there.
Ran Singh...
would you like me
to go with you to Belapur?
My good friend,
I would like your company
very much,
but this is one journey
I must make alone.
Then God go with you.
There's nothing
to worry about.
After all, you know,
negotiations take time.
But it's nearly ten hours
since Mr. Singh left.
He should never
have left.
It's my belief
he walked into a trap.
Baited with an offer
of peace
and a telephone call
to Bombay.
What is it?
I hope it's Singh.
Why, Singh.
Forgive me for disturbing you
at breakfast.
We were worried
about you.
What happened, Singh?
Did you see
Newah Khan?
Yes.
The plane is your only chance
to escape alive.
Unfortunately, I could not meet
Newah Khan's terms.
He tried in various ways
to persuade me.
And finally...
he gave me 24 hours
to reconsider.
Forgive me that...
Dr. Paling,
will you come with me, please?
Certainly.
Thank you.
God, they cut off
his hand.
He needs a blood transfusion
immediately.
If it's okay, doctor,
I'd like to give it.
Whoever did this had pretty good
knowledge of surgery.
And a strange way
of negotiating peace.
Newah Khan
doesn't want peace.
He wants Mr. Gibbs'
machine guns.
Why don't you
give them to him?
You're not using them
anyway.
True.
And I will never use them.
But Newah Khan cannot
possibly know that.
I can't figure it.
So you're hipped on the side
till you want freedom
and peace for your people.
But when the chips are down
you won't fight for it.
To give your hand,
what does it get you?
Twenty-four hours,
Mr. Gibbs.
Time for your plane to arrive
and get us out of here.
I can understand dying.
But to give your hand...
Why don't you use it
to fight with?
I am fighting.
How can you fight
if you don't hit back?
Sometimes one wins
by losing.
Oh, you're crazy, Singh.
Are you leaving with us
on the plane?
I must stay here.
And have your other hand
chopped off.
Thank you, Mr. Gibbs.
You know,
we are now
blood brothers.
The machine guns are hidden
in the palace.
Ran Singh will not
use them.
And he will not
let the English use them.
This is very interesting
news indeed.
You will be well rewarded
for your information,
if it is correct.
We will attack
the palace tonight.
Yes, general.
You will go first
with your men
to attract their fire.
If they do not use the machine
guns, we will attack in force.
Yes, general.
And if one machine gun bullet
should be fired at us,
you will curse your mother
for giving birth to you.
Oh, there's nothing out there.
I tell you,
I saw a shadow.
You've been seeing shadows
all night.
But this one moved.
I think it's time
for your relief.
I'll send Conroy.
It did move.
Norton?
Norton.
Mr. Conroy.
Where's Mr. Norton?
I don't know.
Sir Henry asked me
to relieve him.
Come on.
Sir Henry! Sir Henry!
I know, Collins.
Go back to your post.
Cover that room.
General.
Now, don't leave that door,
Conroy.
You'll be all right here.
Ladies, stay in the common hall.
Get to the windows
and don't waste bullets.
Moti Lal, fetch Dr. Paling.
No, go back to your post.
Sir Henry,
I demand that you cease firing.
Are you out of your mind?
Paling, get some water.
Well, Said, looks as if you
gave up your hand for nothing.
I do not understand.
He gave me 24 hours.
Must go and...
Oh, no you don't!
You're not leaving till you
give us those machine guns.
Where are they? Where are they?
I hear the plane.
Come on, come on.
Hold it.
We're leaving.
All of you stay put
till I give the word.
I'll have the plane taxi as
close to the palace as possible.
We need to make a rush for it.
You're coming with us if I have
to drag you on that plane.
I would suggest--
You just feed them lead,
general, while I light the
flares. Come on, Moti Lal.
You chaps go back to your posts.
Holy cow.
He brought the wrong plane.
Go back and tell
General Harrison
there's only room for seven.
Yes, sahib.
Harrison, sahib.
Harrison, sahib.
What is it?
The wrong plane has come.
Gibbs sahib says there will be
room for only seven people.
What are you going to do?
It's quite obvious.
I'm not leaving.
Child, please, you must.
You--
Where to? And with whom?
We'd better hurry,
ma'am sahib.
Will you take a message
to Mr. Gibbs?
Well, aren't you leaving,
ma'am sahib?
Tell him to take good care
of himself in the jungle.
Yes, ma'am sahib.
And tell him the awning
is still blue.
Yes, ma'am sahib.
God bless you, monsieur.
The plane may be able
to come back for us.
We still have a chance
if you will just let us
have those machine guns.
I wish I could, Sir Henry,
but if I did, my whole life
would be a lie.
Singh, this is no time for--
Please try to understand.
We are a tiny state.
Not very important to India
or to the rest of the world,
but how we conduct ourselves,
what we do here,
is very important.
Even if we fail.
I know I've been betrayed,
but I-- I'm--
I must try everything.
I must.
Newah Khan.
Singh!
Newah Khan!
Dr. Paling! Dr. Paling!
He's dead.
Where's Miss Willoughby?
She's not coming.
But she sent a message.
What is it?
She says take good care
of yourself in the jungle.
And she says
the awning is still blue.
Get in, son.
No!
I am not a woman.
Hurry up!
Okay. Take off!
What about you?
I've got business here.
Have you lost your mind?
Try to get us some help.
Get going!
Thompson?
Why do you suppose
they've stopped firing?
I don't know,
but I don't like it.
We'd better be prepared
for anything.
General. There has been
nothing but rifle fire.
They're not using
machine guns.
No, they are not.
But I won't need help.
We will give you the palace
very soon.
Thank you, General.
Joan.
Joan.
What?
You didn't leave.
I couldn't.
I couldn't leave
without you.
Oh, Steve!
Come with me.
Please.
Mr. Gibbs,
why did you come back?
Mr. Willoughby.
I'd like to marry
your granddaughter.
Well, I...
Will you marry us?
Will I..?
All right, Joan?
Please, grandfather.
Singh,
will you
witness this?
Will you...
Steven?
Will you, Steven,
take Joan
to be your lawful
wedded wife,
to love and to cherish
in joy and sorrow,
in health
and sickness,
in prosperity
and adversity,
so long as you both
shall live?
I do.
Do you, Joan,
take Steven
to be your lawful
wedded husband,
to love and to cherish
in joy and sorrow,
in health
and sickness,
in prosperity
and adversity,
so long as you both
shall live?
I do.
I now pronounce you
man and wife.
Whom God
has joined together,
let no man
put asunder.
Amen.
Gibbs?
Here's your gun.
It's yours Moti Lal,
I willed it to you.
Thank you.
It may come in handy a couple
of hundred years from now.
Where are we going?
To ask for help.
Help?
They're going to
batter down the front door.
Everybody,
cover the front entrance.
Blow out that lamp.
It's okay, baby.
Singh.
Dr. Paling!
Dr Paling!
Dr. Paling!