Vautrin (1943) - full transcript

They're moving away...the filthy bastards!

Will they be recaptured?

Can't do much before daylight.

- A pipe?
- Thanks, corporal.

Until then...
we've got the best spot.

So you still refuse to talk?

You were friendly with the convicts
Vautrin and Calvi...

You're sure to know something
about their escape..

So talk!

Speak up!

Ball and chain for these men
from tomorrow...and 20 days in solitary.



Take them away!

This is a nice mess...gentlemen...
congratulations!...

It's one thing for Calvi to escape...
but Vautrin...

Vautrin, the most dangerous hoodlum
of our time!

You let him get away!

There were circumstances...

Circumstances!...I am the one responsible
for this penal colony...

in the eyes of His Majesty...

A penal colony that is meant to be
escape-proof!...

Who was in charge of the watch?

You'll be waiting somewhat longer
for your promotion to captain.

You'll be under close arrest
from tomorrow.

Lieutenant Serbin, take 40 men...

Search the farms,
barns and churches...



Mr de Niron...

alert the police stations right away
in La Rochelle, Cognac and Jonzac.

Unlikely they'd
tell you about their stash!

They probably fooled you.

There are two things
I don't like, Calvi...

That I have to do all the work...
and people?s opinions.

You've nothing to fear from me...

I stopped to rest and I did not know
of your presence...

Besides...I'm alone...
and I'm not armed...

and I'm a priest...

Who are you?

Father Don Carlos Herrera...

He DID come to take a rest.

I've never killed!

It's not a murderer I need...
it's a man!

Scram!

Go and find us
some fresh horses.

We need to sleep
in Poitiers tonight.

Reverend...we'll need to stop
for a while...

We have to repair the rear axle...

if we're going to get through
on these damn roads!

"Ad augusta per augusta"
my friend.

To a noble destiny by narrow paths...

Hurry...it still feels like prison here.

We got through to here...
The hard part's done.

But I'm in the greatest hurry

of any abbot in France!

At your command, Reverend!

Woe to he
who transgresses!

What can I offer you, Reverend?

Anjou?...Loire?...Muscadet?

Bring me...a glass of water.

I'm from a monastery
where alcohol is unknown.

Very well, Reverend.

There you are, Reverend

Thank you, my child.

Miss!...

But that's much too much, sir!

That's it.

Where does it go through there,
my child?

To the river, Reverend...

This is a very poetic place
to drown yourself, sir!

That's my business, Reverend...

I can't see how you
can assume that...

This, my child...
Your tears and this piece of paper...

No need to read it to know
that it's a goodbye...

A symbol of youth...to write
to those you leave.

You still deny it?

But I've nothing to deny.

Be on your way, Reverend.

Your comfort is useless to me.

I don't believe in God.
I'm an atheist.

I'm from Spain, sir.
We don't believe in atheists down there.

Tell me why you want to die...

Do you have an incurable illness?

Yes, Father...poverty!

A diamond knows not its value.

Confide your troubles in me, my son.

It is a love affair gone wrong?

What can grieve you...
at your age?

Dishonour, Father.
I fled Paris...deeply in debt.

I owe 15,000 francs
to a moneylender.

15,000 isn't enough
to drown yourself over.

That's not all...

Before the payment date...

I lost my head
and did something wrong...

I forged my brother-in-law's
signature...

And as he was unable to pay...

he was thrown into prison.

I've no choice but to die.

You have too much heart
and not enough brains...

Fate is only worth
what we judge it to be...

To you rate yours
at 15,000 francs?

I'm inclined to pay you more.

-YOU...Father?
- Yes, me...

I'll give you proof.

I think it'll hold together
'til Poitiers.

You can rest assured, sir...

Look...

There are 30,000 crowns here...

Tonight at Poitiers, I'll give you
what will free your brother....

and give you back
the will to live.

You'd do that for me?

Later this evening...

Why would you do it?

Because I'm interested in you...

As fate would have it...I met you
on the verge of suicide...

Because you moved me...

We can leave, Reverend...

Go on ahead and wait for me!

I was talking to people here...
Calvi let himself be caught.

May God forgive him.

A few minutes walking
doesn't bother you?

Come on...I want to talk to you...
privately.

Believe me...in my experience,
you've been very unwise...

Only those who make the laws
get around them...

not those who have to obey them.

The small fry are to serve...
not to be served.

I understand that too well, Father.

We've been chatting a long time
without introducing ourselves...

I'm Abbot Carlos de Herrera,

honorary canon
at Toledo Cathedral...

...on a mission for His Majesty.

My titles are more obscure, Mr Abbot...

My mother is of noble birth...

I might have been a marquis.

My unlucky star didn't want it...

My name's Lucien Chardon.

And you suffer from it, right?

-You're ambitious?
-To die from it...

Better to live...
Would you like to succeed?

I can take you very far
down the way to power.

I saved your life...
Consent to be mine.

I'll make your fortune.

Once again...Why?

Because I'm alone...

One of the most dreadful
sorts of solitude...

That of the soul...

Whether he's a convict or a leper...
infamous or sick...

Man has only one thought...

...to find an accomplice
or companion to his destiny.

Would you be that?

What a strange priest
you are!

Do not be fooled
by appearances...

You've been hunted
out of Paris?

You be back there in your coach
within 6 months...

...with your marquis arms
engraved on the doors.

Obey...and you'll be as great
you were small...

I shall plan, you will execute...
And Paris will belong to us!

Success has a secret
that I don't know.

That's is the secret of success...

...straight to the point
and quick about it!...

I don't have as steady a hand
as you.

I don't want you to hold the gun...

I want you to be the bullet!

Father...I'm yours!

Off we go!

Servants of the Marquis
de Rubempr?...

Servants of the Marquis
de Rubempr?......

Your lordship!

Thank you my friend.

Lucien?

I didn't want to let you leave

without a more personal goodbye..

How do you want me?

Mad as you are...

I'm afraid your father would guess
the reason for your absence.

The duke doesn't think much of me.

But his daughter loves you.

I love you, Lucien.

Don't take offence at my father's distrust...

Think about how far
you've come in 6 months...

You came as Lucien Chardon

and here you are...
Lucien de Rubempr?...

A marquis and now received
in our house...

''Received'' ?
You mean "tolerated".

Come now...
don't be so down...

I bear one of the great names
of France...

Before agreeing
to let me change it...

my father would require
guarantees...

He acts as a father...
So act as a lover!...

If you love me...

Do you have any doubt?

No, because I want to live.

I know I'm not as pretty
as a lot of other women...

but I also know
what I'm worth.

Let ambition make you
love me...

...and I'll bring you
to loving me for love!

I love you Clotilde!

Don't make me too happy...

...lest I have too much regret
someday.

- Good night!
-You're leaving so early this evening...

Is Madame de S?risy
so impatient?

Don't be cruel...

My life is suspended
until I see you again...

I'm going home...
I'll see you tomorrow.

A handsome guy...
masked for the opera ball!

He's come to steal us away!

Lucien ! Lucien Chardon !

It's you!
Our Lucien!...

I told you he was in Paris.

Lover!
Isn't he handsome...well-dressed!

CHEERS FOR LUClEN CHARDON !

Gentlemen...please excuse me!

Very happy...

to see you in Paris again...
Mr Chardon...

You seem to be right back
in the saddle...

Congratulations!

You did very well
in the provinces?

Not everyone takes advantage
of Parisians' gullibility!

You're getting rather testy
Monsieur Chardon...

Monsieur de Rastignac,
call me by my name...

I am Marquis de Rubempr?...
under a royal decree...

I HAD heard that.

You're welcome to repeat it.

So...Long live the king!...
Monsieur de Rubempr?.

He knows how to choose
his gentlemen.

''De Rubempr?'' ?

Little Lucien Chardon has finally
got to use his ancestors.

His noble line is far older
than yours...

Madame Marquise d'Empire!

Wait 'til the gold on your crest is dry
before judging others!

What impertinence!

What a pity I didn't get a chance
to slap him!

This Chardon is making his mark...
and somebody's sponsoring him.

Should he trip up...
I'll crush him!

You?

You'll lose you place in paradise.

And you're wasting your time!

You're not at the Hotel Grandlieu?

I'm on my way.

I came here because...
I was feeling sad.

Clotilde doesn't love you anymore?

She leans on her father...

What's he got against you?
You're a marquis!

A marquis without land.

If I become a landowner...
I get the hand of his daughter!

Which would cost...

600,000 francs.

We'll have to find someone
who's got it!

Lucien!

Do you know who I just left?
The charming Madame de S?risy...

She's waiting for you
in her dressing-room.

That's all I have to say.

Thanks, old man!

Ah, Madame de S?risy !

Very good!...
She loves you, she can be useful...

Off you go, my son!

I took you to be
a trustworthy boy, Lucien...

When Diane saw you...
I refused to believe it!

I'm hoping my eyes
didn't deceive me...

Standing there in your finery?
Is this in our honour?

Apparently not!
Sit down!

Have you already forgotten
about Mademoiselle de Grandlieu?

By the way...how's your affair going?
Has the duke succumbed to your charms?

Somewhat slowly, madame.

He'll come 'round!

Clotilde loves you.

When one has the heart of a place...
the walls tumble down.

You'll soon be
Monsieur Clotilde de Grandlieu.

No fear about that!

You're cruel!...

No...jealous!

I have to leave you...

You're already running away?

I'm really forced to...

Tomorrow I have to go hunting...

It's going to be a long day.

Go on then...you're a scoundrel!

Could I see you the day after tomorrow?
There'll be gaming tables...

Isn't it the man who's supposed
to ask such things?

Yes...but none of us
are perfect...are we?

My dear...you really are badly in love
with that boy!

Do you mean I don't
love him enough?

You love him too much...
and too obviously!

Hearts only burn well
in uncertainty.

Mine burns enough for two!

My angel!
Esther, my darling!

It really is you, Lucien!

I was so afraid you wouldn't
be able to come!

So afraid!

I've been watching for your signal
since I arrived...

For several minutes
my whole life was on hold.

My angel!

We can't stay here...
20 people have recognized me already.

I've had to smile...
defend myself...lie...

...losing the minutes
I was keeping for you!

We'll have to separate.

Already?

We can meet again
at your place.

So what have I got
to complain about?

See you later!

Monsieur de Rastignac?

What do you want with me?

To speak to you as a friend...

Not a friendship I'd like...
Monsieur Masked One!

You don't know my voice?

How about my face?

Vautrin?
So you're out of prison?

Yes...Just to recommend
a friend of mine to you!

Who are you talking about?

The Marquis de Rubempr?...

I would like you to like him,
Mr Rastignac...

I like those who please me.

Make him one who pleases you!

Otherwise?...

I haven't forgotten how you reached
your place in the world!

Monsieur de Rubempr? will be
one of my friends.

Monsieur MARQUIS de Rubempr?!

I stress the difference...
it cost me a lot.

Goodbye.

Mademoiselle, I'm confused ...

Pardon me!

How could I have been
so clumsy?

Don't worry...
it doesn't matter at all!

Mademoiselle....

Here...

I tore the dress of
the prettiest woman at the ball!

I feel it will take me a lifetime
to make amends...

I'd much rather forgive you
right now!...Goodbye sir!

But, mademoiselle.........

That's a dress that
could cost you dearly, Baron!

Why?...
Do you know that beauty?

Nothing special about it...

That's the beautiful Esther...
You'll find her at 15 Rue de Langlade...

Knock on the door
with a gold piece!

-A whore?
-Courtesan, Baron!...

An unscrupulous one.

I am rich...
and she is beautiful!...

That's not the first pretty woman
you've looked at!

No...but it's the first one
that looked at me, Rastignac...

Goodbye, Nucingen.

Hey...that was 15 Rue de Langlade
wasn't it?

Thanks my friend...

Angel...you're so clumsy!

Right now, a badly-tied tie
is hardly relevant!

So...my true love...
what are you going to do about it?

I want you to be
as handsome as possible...

Even if it's only the night
and me who sees you...

Remember that pride is a sin!

I'm proud of being yours!

I wonder if a joy like mine
is not a challenge to the heavens.

Six months of happiness...
what have I done to deserve it?

Happiness and deserts are two lords

who often go to war with each other.

Until tomorrow my love.

I'll be counting the hours
that separate us.

The hours, days, your worldly life...

Madame de S?risy the renowned beauty...

Clotilde de Grandlieu
and several others.

You envy them?

I pity them...because it's me
that you love!

Until tomorrow...

Until tomorrow.

Here you are Angel...
here they are!

Who are you?

The Abbot Don Carlos Herrera.

I see that he spoke to you
about me...

Young people have no secrets
from their lovers.

He loves you...is that right?

He told me so.

My happiness depends on
believing it.

A shared love...one hears?

Pointless question, Father...

For six months we've only lived
for each other.

All very well...but...
does he know what you are?

What I was...yes.

He also knows that I've become

a new and decent woman for him.

I've no doubt about that...
but love is a fragile sentiment.

I don't accept that, Father...
nothing can separate the two of us!

Nothing!

Even if he was to kill himself?

Why should he kill himself?

He's happy.

Why is he happy?

I put on the road to fortune...

And I on the road to happiness!

Somebody else might feel that way...
Not him!

He's ambitious...
as you well know.

If that success eludes him...
and he is finished...

It's not your love
that will save him.

Come on now...

Tears have never fixed anything...

We must learn to bow
to the inevitable, my child...

Let's say Lucien loves you and you love him...

But concede that I have
rights over him...

My life is nothing without him...
If you take him...you're taking me.

Who said anything
about taking you two?

I'm only asking for his social life...
his future...

The rest is yours!

But I have to be obeyed...
in his own best interests..

Do you accept that?

Tell me what to do!

I'll obey because I care for him.

Very good my child...
Now you're listening to reason.

Youth!

You like music, Reverend?

Enough not to have it
abused in my presence!

Went out at 9 o'clock...
He's gone to the Spanish Embassy.

He was accompanied to the door
by the 1st Councillor...

...who seemed to hold him
in high esteem...

Your impression?

There's been mistake...
It's certainly Carlos Herrera.

It's Vautrin !

He managed to fool
the Spanish Embassy...

he doesn't fool me.

I'll send him back
to the dungeons.

Back already, Lucien?

I was thinking of you on the Champs-Elys?es...
I have to speak to you.

I know...

So?...

I'm listening.

It is so difficult for you to admit
that you're returning from Esther's?

Had the bird flown the nest?

What?

You know?
You saw us at the Opera!...

Where is she?

Where I put her...

This woman was something between us
that should never have existed...

a lie and a secret!

When I open up the salons
of Grandlieu to you...

...it's not so you can go wallowing
in the gutter!

bring her back to me...I love her...
Do you want that I should die?...

No...I want you alive...

...in the life you have to have.

And what if I should choose
a different one for myself?

I see that you need the truth...

I war you.. it'll hit you
like a ton of bricks...

We have debts of 60,000 francs...

And I'm not talking about the 600,000
needed for you to marry Clotilde...

That's not all...come...

You see that man there?

He's the most stubborn of mules...
Monsieur de Granville...

state prosecutor...

The police? So he knows?

They suspect...

This imbecile could smell the convict
dressed as a priest.

We're done for!

No...

If you obey me like you
need to obey me!

Don't look back any more...

or your fortune
and our salvation are gone.

And Esther?

I'll tell you where she is...

You'll see her this evening...

She risks nothing
because you love her.

Thank you...I'll do as you say.

Hey...coachman!

Please...
You're welcome to share my cab!

It'll save you from having to pay for
another one to follow me!

-Monsieur...
-Monsieur Abbot...Up you go...

Besides...we're going the same way...

Coachman...to the Palais de Justice!

You overwhelm me with reports
about Abbot Carlos Herrera...

in whom you make out that
you recognise Vautrin.

I'm not interested in your hunches...
I want evidence!

Unmask him...
or leave me alone!

It's not easy, sir...
It is very hard.

You're paid to be harder...
Come in!

Agent Contenson

is asking to see you.

That's one of my men!

He's on this case...
he must have news!

Have him come in.

Anything new? Our man?

He's here.

You brought him in? Bravo!

I didn't bring him in...
he came himself...

And what does he want?

Monsieur the Abbot Don Carlos Herrera,

Honorary Canon of Toledo Cathedral.

and envoy to His Majesty
Ferdinand VII...

king of Spain...

...solicits the favour of an interview
with the Prosecutor General.

Very well...
Leave him alone with me.

You have indicated a desire to see me,
Monsieur Abbot...

How can I be of service?

Monsieur Prosecutor,
I'm here to set my soul at rest...

...and you are seriously
jeopardizing that.

Me?...Please explain yourself.

Due to your surrounding my humble person
with so much attention...

you risk making me commit

the sin of Pride...

I would be extremely sorry!

But I don't understand...

What do you want
to talk about?

This bodyguard you have
following me...

A man who would be most useful
doing general duties...

There are so many criminals...

Perfect...

My only concern has been
the protection of your person.

But if that doesn't suit you...

I have a guardian angel
Monsieur Prosecutor...

Very well...

The chief detective will receive
the necessary orders tonight.

I was starting to think the police
suspected me of something!

Nothing surprising in that
by the way...

It's quite easy to claim you're sent
by the Court...

Still...take a look at my credentials...

I'd feel happier...

These are my personal papers.

That abbot's a long time
in the confessional.

Sure is.

That prosecutor could get a confession
out of a pile of rocks.

Thank you for your kindness
Monsieur Prosecutor.

The least I could do,
Monsieur Abbot...

'Pax Domine sit semper nobiscum.'

Fresh water!

Fresh water!

Who wants fresh water?

You can see I'm busy.

80, 90...
Is that all?

It's a real diamond...
It's worth 10 times that.

So it'll be 10 times easier
to pay me...get out!

Hullo my boy!
Hullo Asia!

The others are upstairs...

Don't I even get a 'hullo'?

Good to see you, Boss...

You working for me?
Yes, Europe...

The good and the bad...

I don't like doing everything...

Hullo Paccart...
What's new?

Silky has just finished his time...

He's claiming his money...
7,000 francs

He's claiming or asking?

He'll be paid in two weeks.
Sit down.

I've found you a job.

You'll enter the service of
Madame Esther Van Gobseck...

Funny name...funny idea...
Who's going to look after the shop?

Providence...
I'm fine with it.

You'll a cook over there...

- And me?
- Chamber maid.

- You'll listen at keyholes.
-And me?

Her coachman.

In the neighbourhood they say
she's a foreigner without much money.

Just enough to live.
I'd say she's a miser.

That's it.

She'll stay at home during the day.
Nights...she'll go out in a carriage.

Her doctor recommends moonlight.

That's right!

Nobody visits her except
Lucien de Rubempr?...

To take her for a walk...
or whatever...eh?

That's all.

Asia will pass on my orders,
if necessary...

-And be good servants.
-Goodbye, Boss.

-On Mademoiselle Esther's orders?...
-And on mine.

What's going on
in that head of yours?

I don't have a cent to my name.

I need 600,000 francs.

Good grief!

You won't find that
on the doorstep!

Any ideas?

Just one...but a good one.

-Baron Nucingen's in love with the kid...
-''Nucingen'' ?

-You're talking millions!
-A real piggy bank ...

So?

So he'll be the fish.

Esther will be the hook.

Lucien will eat the result.

You go to a lot of trouble
for that boy, Jacques...

A lot.

He reminds me of my
unfulfilled ambitions,

my squandered youth...

I feel he can give me
a fresh start...

Basically you're a good guy
Jacques...

A good guy who's been in prison.

Florine, you play wonderfully...

Herr Schubert
is definitely talented!

Herr Schubert may have talent...
but not our beloved Florine.

Go and join your handsome Lucien...

Don't make fun of me,
Diane...

He's so young and handsome!

Haven't you had
any other lover?

''Any other''?...
Don't be rude!

That's not something
you ask a lady.

Now go...

-Can you follow suit?
-No... -Thanks...

Eight points and three honours.

I'm out...

The gods of whist are against me...
Take my place, Rastignac...

You clean up!

Our friend Lucien
follows the proverb...

''Unlucky in cards...''

Your deal.

Did you know it's full of thieves
at your place?

Did they take something of yours?

Your presence...your smile...

It's unbearable!

I have to put up with
more than that!

Every woman here
is in love with you!

You saw how Madame Espard
was looking at you!?

Forget it!...
I've certainly forgotten it.

You're just saying that
to reassure me...

You find forgetting
too easy!

About anything...
except you!

You are divine...

YOU are a demon!...

I'm lost before I start...

Mademoiselle Clotilde de Grandlieu...!

Off you go...
Don't keep her waiting!

She looks like
she's drowning...

and looking for something
to grab onto.

I adore you!

-Hullo, Clotilde.
-Hullo, my dear.

Oh...I have to leave you...
see you soon.

I'm late, Lucien...

Tell me that you've been worried...

I certainly have...

You are all I worry about!

-Have you spoken to your father?
-Yes...

Unfortunately others
have spoken to him, too...

Have I been well-trampled
into the mud?

There was talk of 100,000 francs
in debts...

...and that you risk
going to prison.

Ridiculous slander!
Who said that?

-Madame d'Espard...
-''Madame d'Espard''?

You can see how
she's looking at us...

What have you done
to that woman?

She hates you...

Since I stopped loving her...

A gentleman doesn't
talk about such things!

You can get our confidence back...

Buy the Rubempr? lands...
and forget all the others!

Clotilde de Grandlieu's husband
shouldn't have enemies.

Monsieur de Rastignac!

Hop in please...I have things
to discuss with you...

What do you want
with me?

How is dear Baron Nucingen
getting along?

How long have you been
interested in HIM?

And I could ask you...how long have you
been interested in HIS WIFE?

The baron is in a bad way...

He doesn't sleep...he doesn't eat...
he's neglecting his affairs.

In short...he's in love.

-You can guess all the rest.
-All of it!

I can even guess that fat fool
will find the beautiful Esther.

He'd pay a fortune
to find where she's hidden.

But we can hope for the best,
my friend...

Hope for the best.

-Anyway...where can I drop you?
-My place.

Coachman...7 Rue d'Artois!

Good morning...

I was told I'd find a certain
Madame de Saint-Est?ve here.

That's me, Baron.

So you know me?

I know all the rich of Paris...
That's my business.

So...it seems you may be interested
in our pretty girl...Esther?

Where is she?
Monsieur de Rastignac assured me...

Calm down!...

Between what Rastignac told you
and what I can tell you...

...there is a gap, dear old chap!

A gap of 50,000 francs...

Now let's see how
you jump over it...

You want money?

Of course! I want my money...

The money I loaned
towards securing your passion...

-YOU loaned her 50,000?
-No, no, no...

25,000...

25 of 50...of course.

You'd understand that...
being a banker.

Alright...50,000.

I'll give you a note
on my bank.

Don't forget the silverware...
while you are at it.

What silverware?...

I have to pay for
silverware!?

It was needed...

by the beautiful one...
I sold it to her.

The heart of a 20 year old can be
a little bit mischievous!

It likes to show off!

How much including the silver?

80,000, in round figures...

I am too great a lady
to be bothered with small change...

And when I hand over 80,000...
I'll get to see her?

Not yet...

- Because of the curtains...
- What curtains?!

Hers...

Curtains she chose herself...
They're beautiful!

You'll see!

Add 20,000...
and she's in your arms!

But that makes 100,000 all up...
It's robbery!

Will she love me, at least?

You aren't good-looking...you're a bit fat...
you're a bit of a goose...

...but you're rich enough to buy
some semblance of love.

Thank you, pet...
if you'll just follow me...

There...

But where is she?

He'll tell you, Baron...

Who are you?

Your confidant...

...and coachman to the one
of interest to you, sir.

Are you going to
show her to me?!

This very night...

-''This very night''?
-This very night...

Here...

That's for you my boy...

Thank you, Baron...

...but I already make
a decent living.

You're an honest man...

Congratulations!

I get 1,000 francs a year...
it's a good job...

I'd be happy to risk losing it
to make you happy...

...but it'd take 50 years
to make up for it.

If you work it out...

Work out what?

50 years at 1,000 francs a year...

...makes 50,000 francs.

You'd understand, Baron...

50,000 francs!

This is a swindle!

I've already been relieved of 100,000 francs
for a girl...

That's dear enough!...

You'd be the better judge of that,
Baron.

And what if your mistress
refuses to receive me?

Mademoiselle is much too honest

not to recognise your merits, sir.

Tonight could be a beautiful night...

if you were willing to trust me, sir.

Tonight?

So be it...I'll pay!

Where will I see her?

At midnight...at a place called "Three Ways"
in the Fausses-Reposes woods.

You'll soon see if I'm lying, Baron.

Give me a pen.

- Mademoiselle?
- Is that Lucien?

Lucien won't be coming
this evening.

Why not?

Has something happened
to him?

Yes, an order...
The advice I gave him...

A trial separation
seemed necessary to me.

And he accepted it?

With difficulty...
you'll be glad to hear...

He even said nasty things
to me...

...though flattering for you.

What harm are you
planning for us now?

Why would I want to harm him?

You're mistaken...
I love him as much as you do.

lmpossible!...
I'd give my life for him!

The beautiful affair that
makes life worth living!...

Better to show him how intelligent
you are...and make him happy.

I am his happiness...
and he's mine!...

That's all we ask for.

You really are all woman...

You don't see further than
your bed...

That will help him
to a great career.

I decided he'd be
my masterpiece.

And if that should lead
to my death?

It's astonishing...the mania women have
about wanting to die!

It'd be easier than living
without him.

Be reasonable.

He needs both of us.

-Lucien is in a most serious situation!
-Really?!

Would you like to help me
save him?

What a question!

So just sign these papers.

IOUs?
What's it all about?

That you owe 150,000 francs
to Baron de Paccart...

To my coachman?

I've made you coachman a baron.

So, sign!...

Sign!...

Paccart must obtain
a judgment against you...

-But who's going to pay?
-Love!

That love that has inspired
Baron de Nucingen.

Nucingen?...who's that?

-Eh!?
- Who's that?

The least noble, but the richest
gentleman in Paris.

I don't know the man at all.

That won't deter him.

But you'll get acquainted
in 2 or 3 days...

-He dreams of ruining himself for you...
-What?

I won't do it!

You have to!

It's the only way of saving
Lucien from prison...

I'll save him.

I was thinking that my darling
had a fatal illness...

It's essential he knows nothing
about this.

It would be the same as
shooting him in the head.

Good night.

-What's the time, Georges ?
-Midnight, sir.

But I don't see anybody.

A midnight rendezvous...
deep in the woods!...

I must be completely mad!

Maybe she'll never come.

You shouldn't linger around here.

Shut up!

I see that you have
trusted me, Baron!

If you'd like to follow me
Baron...

And what do see there, Baron?

Oh, my God! She's wonderful!

Let me go to her!

-Are you joking, Baron?
-Of course not!

I want to talk to her!

-That's not possible, Baron
-How dare you!

In the best interests
of yourself, Baron...

Mademoiselle would not allow
a stranger to pounce on her.

-It needs time...
-''TIME'' !

You thief!
You promised me...

that this would be a beautiful night.

Haven't you been able to see
the woman you love, Baron?

You can't catch butterflies
by firing a pistol.

If you could be patient
for three days...

...you'll be received in a bedroom.

-In HER bedroom?
-In 3 days.

You'll receive a confirmation note.

Three days...

Through here...Baron, sir...

Gosh!...Nice apartment!...

Your mistress has better lodgings
than my wife!

Every jewel has to have its case...

Everything here is chosen
to serve the beauty of Mademoiselle...

The marbles...the silver...

the curtains...
-I know! I know!...You're telling me!

Where's your mistress?
Has she been told about me?

At length, Baron.

More than once...
But she doesn't want to listen...

But I highlighted your merits...
your fortune...

I'm the biggest banker in Paris!

''The biggest'', yes...

That's what upsets her...

She doesn't like big and fat...

In the end, she's let me decide

...if you might please her or not.

So...

What have you decided?

You see me hesitating...

If I make a mistake...I lose my job...
A job worth 1000 francs a year...

It would take me 10 years
to match it...

So you too!?
You're all thieves!

This is blackmail!
I refuse to pay...

That's a pity...

There's the door that'll bring you
within a hair's breadth of happiness.

So be it...10,000 you said.

20 000, Baron...

10,000 for my job...
10,000 for my conscience.

You rogue!

The Baron de Nucingen!

Mademoiselle...you see before you
the happiest of men approaching you!

Yet most miserable...
because he sees you crying...

Don't let my tears upset you...

They're not because of you...
neither can you make them go...

You are unhappy, though?

Allow me a place in your life...

I'll make you the most envied
woman in Paris!

Come...

Come and sit next to me!

There...

I love you, Esther.

Can one be in love with
something one buys?

I only pay your debts...
Do you have others?

I'll pay them, too!

All I ask is one thing...
let me be close to you.

Sounds like fun, Baron...

but I think you're jumping the gun!

Should you get to crumple my dress
after just 5 minutes of wooing?

Let's drink to your health...

Everything in good time!

You are charming my child!

Your ''child''?

I'd like to be...but then
you must love me like a father!

Though not really like a father!

Come on now...
drink...drink up!

Come and sit next to me!

Soon...

To the loves of
Baron de Nucingen!

Yes, old girl...I'm nervous!

I'm gambling everything on this.

The cards are marked...
and your opponents are blind!

Fortunately!

Tomorrow you'll go to the bank
to cash the Baron's note.

If our girl knows
how to play her role...

Lucien will marry Clotilde.

I'll send an announcement
to that idiot agent Contenson.

- So...?
-All going well, boss...

Grandpa is in Mademoiselle's bedroom...

Love made him so stupid...
I took him for 20,000.

He's got so much...

He'll hardly notice it.

This time I've got you!

I've got you!...
You terror of a girl!...

What a nasty man...
who won't drink my health!...

I feel... I feel...

I feel sick...

Don't leave me...
my treasure...

Don't leave me...
my little heart-throb...

Easy...easy now...

Rest for a while...
close your eyes...

You've got all night
ahead of you!

You go and keep him amused.

Is that how we hang onto a good catch

that pays our debts?

Shut up!

You are not good at doing this...
and you're too full of yourself...

We find a millionaire...
and you turn up your nose...

Get out!

Through here, gentlemen...

What's this about?

Are you Esther Gobseck?

-Yes...but...
-Officer Dherville...

...bailiff of the Paris court...

...acting on a judgement
obtained against you...

...by Baron Paccart...
to whom you owe 150,000 francs.

I'm here to seize
your furniture.

My furniture?

Do you recognize
these documents?

Is that not your signature ?

Yes, but...

Are you able to pay?

No...

Get to it!...

Following complaint be Baron Paccart...

I'm arresting you
for default of payment...

What are you people
doing here?

They're here to seize the furniture...

and throw her in
the debtor's prison!

Please save her, Baron!

What...even more debts?

Show me the details.

Yes...

That seems to be in order...
Do you know who I am?

Do you wish to pay it
perhaps ?

150,000 francs.

One could argue...
the devil...!...

It's either paid...
or justice takes its course...

Mademoiselle...

This man is going to let you
go to prison for 150,000 francs!

Take my savings!

Shut up you little slut!

I know where 20,000 francs
of your savings come from!

I'll pay.

-We only accept payment in cash...
-That's right...

I am Baron de Nucingen!

Well...that changes everything!

Your signature
will suffice, Baron!

Thank you, Baron!
Everybody out!...

Through here, gentlemen!

Here we go, my treasure!

Cheer up...
You've been extravagant...

Like all pretty women...

Go away!

You can't mean it!

You've already cost me
more than 300 000 francs!

Be reasonable,
my treasure!

Let me go, I say!

Let you go...let you go!...
I've been doing that for 4 days!

Now I'm going to
get what I paid for!

You brute!

You whore!

Filthy thief!

Isn't that it?...

I cough up 320,000 francs
in return for a slap?

Well...that's not on!

You'll soon be getting a bit of news
from Baron Nucingen!

Good work, my child!

Congratulations!

If that oaf gets too angry...
Lucien is lost!

He'll go straight to prison.

It was beyond me...
I couldn't...

I couldn't...
I'll never be able to...

Phooey!...

So this great love has only served
to speed up his demise!

Bravo!

I love Lucien and you're asking me
to love somebody else...

Show me the woman
who would submit to that!

Probably none....

Too bad...But he's young enough to
endure a few years in prison...

No...not him!
I couldn't bear it!

So?

His life or death simply depend
on a gesture from you, Esther!

Tell me what I have to do...

I shall have to find the strength
not to defend myself from him.

Write a nice not to the baron...
he'll come back....

He's the sort that
easily forgets a slap.

That will be the end
of my love.

You deserve to be happy...

but life is cruel, my pet.

I ask you one last effort
for 300,000 francs.

After that...you can slap
every baron on the planet.

Cheer up!...
We've got 320,000 francs!...

Half your marquis estate...

Where did the money
come from?

What you don't know
won't hurt you.

Yes?

Excuse me Marquis...

there's a man wishing to see you.

Does he have a name?

He said that was irrelevant...
But he insists.

-Damn him...I'm in a hurry.
-No...show him in.

If he hides his name, he may have
something of interest.

You want something?

Yes, Marquis...
100,000 francs.

That's a lot of money.

And on what basis, may I ask?

On the basis of discretion.

I presume it's yours
you're selling...you sneak?

Only to connoisseurs, Marquis!

I wonder at which key hole

our dear abbot has his ear...

but it doesn't really matter.

Let's talk business...

You're counting on marrying
Mademoiselle de Grandlieu...

...once you come up with
600,000 francs...

Miscalculation.

- You'll need 100,000 more.
- Otherwise?...

Otherwise I talk.

I tell the duke what I know...

...and I know sufficient...

...to put him right off any marquis
of your type.

There are two possibilities...

...either you know nothing
and I give you nothing...

...or you know something...

and if I give you money...
you blackmail me forever.

The young often speak
without thinking...

So think about it, Marquis...

I'll walk down the stairs slowly...

You may decide to call me back
before I reach the street door.

Certainly not!

In that case...you're lost...
Monsieur de Rubempr?.

-Well?
-You heard him?

This man will betray us!

No...I don't think so.

Why give away information
he still hopes to sell?

We have to get ahead of him.

Get over to Grandlieu's and
make your request as soon as tonight ...

Madame de S?risy
is expecting me at the opera.

You can join her later...

And when can I see Esther again?

Why do I have to be separated from her?
Where is she?

That girl doesn't matter
to me just now...

When the fire's in the castle...
you don't worry about the stables.

-Well?
-I'm sorry...no one is here.

-What!?...What do you mean?
-There's no one here.

Are you mad?

I repeat...sir...
there is nobody here.

There is nobody here to receive
the Marquis de Rubempr?.

Lucien?

Lucien!

-Clotilde!...what's going on?
-Come with me!

My father gave orders
that you aren't to be admitted.

Why?

A policeman came
to talk to him.

Contenson!

He spoke very badly about you...

He said your money comes from
your mistress's bedroom activities...

The wretch!
And you father believed it?

As for me...I believe in you...

I know you're a decent man!

Clear yourself of these slanders...
I beg of you!

-You'll do it...won't you?
-I swear

My father wants me
to leave Paris for a few days...

I'll obey...but not before
I've seen you again.

Be at the entrance to Fontainebleau forest
tomorrow morning at 8...

at the Belecroix crossroads...
You know it?

But now you must leave...
Go quickly!

-'Til tomorrow, Clotilde!
-'Til tomorrow!

Esther...

Esther, my treasure...
look at me...

-Why are you so mean?
-Me?...Mean?...

Come now!...I'm taking care of you...
Because of indigestion...

one shouldn't court a woman
right after a meal.

Aren't I kind to you?...
I've paid all your debts...

Don't I wear your livery?

We are the perfect couple.

The whore and the thief...
fit very well together.

I've been waiting for you
for half an hour...

I had things to do.

You're rather uncouth this evening...

Punctuality is not only
the courtesy of kings...

What are you up to...
are you crazy?

But you wrote me
to come back...

With 300,000 francs.
Where is it?

If I get it for you...

...what would you do for me
in return?

-You know what I'm talking about?
-Yes.

So...fair exchange?

Yes

I'll send instructions
to my cashier.

I have just one word to say to you...

-Goodbye!
-'Goodbye''?

I'm leaving you
to your new conquest.

Congratulations!...
He's what you need.

You don't deserve anything else!...
You're nothing but a whore!

-Lucien!...quiet down...
-You can't deny it!

I saw him look at you...
I saw you smile!

Am I lying?
Do you belong to him?

Lucien...you're destroying things
for yourself!...

I'm totally destroyed anyway!

Esther...my treasure!
You're crying?

-Why?
-It's nothing.

Come on!...
let's get out of here...

Go on...give us a smile!...
Who's upsetting you?

If it's a woman...
she'll be dying of jealousy...

If it's a man...I'll throw so much wealth
in between you...

that you'll forget him.

I don't want to forget him.

That would be like
losing him again.

Ah! That'll be my cashier...

You've finally learned how
to talk to women, Baron!

Shut up you slut!

-Thank you for that...
-At your service, sir.

This way, sir...

See you again soon...
I hope!

Esther...this money is yours!

I kept my word!

It's a deal, then...

In 10 minutes...
come into my bedroom...

Allow me this last delay...
it's to make myself beautiful.

Come in...

What do you want?

Softly...softly...

Your marquis is here...
He wants to see you.

I know what it's like in love...
But be quick!

Why have you come?

I wanted to see you.

Tell me that I've been wrong...
that I've been unjust...cruel...

Tell me that it isn't true.

It isn't true!

Esther!

Now you must go.

Don't ask me any questions.

Tomorrow, I'll be free...
and nothing will be able to touch me.

Go, my angel...go!

Until tomorrow, my love!

Yes...

Tomorrow...

Esther ?

Esther !

Help!

Look...

What is it?

Dead!

''Dead''?

My 300,000 francs!

Where are my...
Where are my 300,000 francs?

My money's been stolen...

My money's been stolen!

My money's been stolen!

Thief!...Murder!

Softly, Baron...
we don't want a scandal!

Calm down...
you need to stop and think!

I want my money!

This could go badly for us.

Let me go...you witch!

I want my money!...
I have to get my 300 000 francs back!

Calm down!...
we'll get you back your money.

Time to scram!

My 300,000 francs!

Save yourself...
we're all done for!

The police are here.

Why?

-What happened?
The kid killed herself...

I wasn't expecting that.

Save yourself...there's a body...
they'll get you!

Paccart and Europe
have run off like rats!

The scum!

Open in the name of the king!

Don't move or I'll shoot!

Forgive them Lord...
for they know not what they do.

Thanks for stopping...

What would you expect?

I have company...
let's not stay here.

I swear to be nothing
but your wife...

I'm more prepared to believe YOU
than my father...

He has sworn to me
that you're a dishonest man.

You're a better person than I am,
Clotilde...

Maybe I love you more
when you don't love ME.

But now I must go back!

Never fear!

What's the matter?

You must be Lucien Chardon?

-Yes...Why?
-I'm arresting you in the name of the king!

Open the window a bit...
it's stuffy in here....

Yes?

Here already, Monsieur Camusot ?

Something came...
Leave us please, Am?lie...

...something extraordinary!

Really?
I'm in a lather of excitement.

This Vautrin-Rubempr? affair
will make our fortune...

I'm lucky to have been in charge...

-Guess what turned up?
-Tell me.

Madame Maufrigneuse has asked me
to come to her place this morning...

He's interested in our methods.

-Do you know who she is?
-A duchess.

Beside the point...Importantly,
she's a friend of Madame de S?risy...

Do you know who
Madame de S?risy is?

A countess.

You don't understand anything.

Madame de S?risy is a cousin
of the Attorney General!...

who's responsible for my promotion.
Understand now?

Better yet, dear husband...
I'm finding out about you.

A taste for intrigue may come late,
but is no less for that.

You can work twice as hard.

I do believe I will, my dear...
I really do.

-Excuse me, madame...
-Just a moment, Am?lie...

Monsieur de Granville...

Don't expect anything
from the duchess!...

...and test the wind carefully...

...with intelligence and tact...

I'd hate to finish up
still a magistrate's wife.

Rest assured my dear...

The opportunity is too good.

-What is it?
-A coach is waiting for you Madame...

The Countess d'Espard
has sent it...

She wants you to drop everything
and come over to her place.

Madame d'Espard?!

Hurry!...
My linen jacket, my gray dress!

Madame d'Espard is the intimate friend
of the Minister of Justice.

Quick...hurry up!

This time...
the Camusot fortune IS made!

In here, sir...

Ah, it's you!

-As you requested, Madame...
-Come closer Monsieur Camusot...

It's regarding a small matter.

An order was made to arrest
Monsieur de Rubempr?...

You were in charge of that matter?
Yes, Madame...

He must be the victim
of a misunderstanding...

I guarantee his innocence...
He should be released within 24 hours.

But...Madame...!

I am faithful to those
who serve me...Monsieur Camusot...

I think you'd make a charming
Counsellor to the Court...

What do you think about that?

Goodness gracious!
Madame...

That is also the opinion
of Madame de S?risy...

The Attorney General would soon
come around to our views.

He likes magistrates
who are quick thinkers.

-Au revoir, Monsieur Camusot.
-My respects, Madame.

Camusot !

What are you doing here?

I've just come from Madame d'Espard,
the friend of the Minister of Justice.

She used to be...

If you send de Rubempr?
to prison or the gallows...

you'll become Counsellor to the Court...

and I'll be able to have the gas
installed at our place.

Now we're between two lines of fire...

The Minister of Justice on one side...
and the Attorney General on the other!

The A.G. wants to save him?

That was what was
made clear to me!

My goodness...
what are you going to do?

My duty...a desperate solution...
but the only one left to me.

So which way does
your duty take you?

You have about as much spirit
pile of bricks!

Leave me alone my dear...
and good night!

Magistrate Camusot
awaits you for questioning.

Father!...
YOU...in the hands of justice!

It's sacrilege!

The errors of men
are temporary.

Have no fear!

At least bless me Father!

Go now!...do not be afraid...
God will recognize his own.

-Here's the accused.
-Perfect!

Come forward!

You have been arrested...

on charges of fraud
with respect to Baron Nucingen...

and concerning the murder

of Mademoiselle Esther Gobseck.

First question...

Who...are...you?!

The Abbot Carlos Herrera, sir...

Honorary Canon of Toledo
and secret envoy to Ferdinand VII.

At least, that is what
you claim to be!

It is always possible
to get false papers.

I suppose one has to accept

the opinion of a magistrate.

No sarcastic remarks, thank you!

I have reason to believe
you are Jacques Collin...

known as Vautrin...a convict
who escaped from Rochefort.

Well?

Me, Magistrate? A convict!?

May God forgive you
for such a mistake!

Stop grieving,

we'll get Lucien
out of this mess...

He's got enough connections
to get out!

Him!...in prison!
Oh God...I'm so miserable!

We need to know
what happened to our letters...

I've written to him in the past...
You've been writing to him.

Clotilde would have, too.

Pretty scandalous
if the police sniff them out.

What is it?

A woman who insists
on seeing you...

She has news of
Monsieur de Rubempr?...

Show her in.

Very well, madame.

Have you been with him?
Have you seen him?

Who are you, anyhow?

A friend...a casual acquaintance.

This business may end badly
both for him and for you...

Meaning?...

Meaning!?...meaning...

...the police will search his papers...
That may be inconvenient...

particularly for a duchess!

Monsieur Camusot's interrogation
could have him charged...

Something must be done...
or he'll be up in the criminal court!

''The criminal court'' ?
Dear God!

There's not a minute to lose!...
Pull yourself together, madame!

Why did you try to run away
when Contenson turned up?

An innocent man
doesn't fear the police.

Proof...

So explain how come you were found

in the residence of a courtesan!

Well?...
Strange place for an abbot!

Why should that be?...
There was a soul to be saved.

Come in!

I found a witness...
He knew this man previously.

Thank you Inspector.

-Baron de Rastignac.
-Come in, sir.

How can I help you, Magistrate.

Do you know this man?

Certainly...

Clerk...make note!

Who is he?

The Abbot Carlos Herrera...
there's no doubt about it!

How are you
my dear Abbot?

-Do you need me anymore?
-No, you may go.

This is unconscionable.

I insist that this is
the convict Vautrin!

I give you my word on that!

So what am I supposed
to do about it?!

You're Chief of Security...
maybe you can be a witness.

Then I demand the "brand test".

Go ahead!

Did you hear that?

Do what's required.

Remove your coat
and take off your shirt!

Do you understand?

Not at all sir...
Please forgive me...

I'm accustomed to monastery rules...
not those of prison...

Every convict is branded
on entering the prison...

These scars are indelible...

Drawing blood to the skin
makes them appear...

So we'll see.

Do it!

This is the final humiliation.

Might I say, Magistrate...

that you have a strange method
of treating diplomatic envoys.

There...look...that's the mark!

I can't make out anything
in that mass of scars...

The scars have nothing to do
with a prison brand.

Where do they come from?

I took the word of God to the
Indians of North America...

They whipped me until I bled.

You looked for a scar...

I have the glory and the regret
to have had several to show you.

Are you satisfied?

Reverend...I face the facts...

and I apologize.

The police reports were wrong
about you...

To err is human.

You will be free tomorrow...
We'll fix the dismissal of the charges...

and to prepare your discharge.

I hope you won't hold
too much against me!

Your mission is to punish...
mine is to forgive.

I leave the task to God
of judging the judge.

Ladies...

Tell the prosecutor we're here...
and make be quick about it!

Why have I been arrested?...
What am I supposed to have done?

Monsieur de Rubempr?, you are here
under two charges...

...of theft and of murder...

-Me?!

of one Esther Gobseck...
your mistress.

Dead?
Esther is dead?

Poisoned.

As there is no reason
to consider suicide...

we are obliged to regard it
as murder...

and to find the culprit.

Police officer Contenson...
who had been watching you...

has seen you enter
this woman's home...

around the time of the murder.

The same evening, you had a violent
argument with her at the Opera.

She was in the company of
Baron de Nucingen...

who was widely known
to be keeping her.

So...extract yourself from all that
if you are able.

You must be mad!...

Me!...do anything at all
to Esther?!

Why?

I was in love with her!

She was all I loved.

One can very well
kill for love...

You wouldn't be the first.

You've been living in grand style these
last months...Monsieur de Rubempr?!

No doubt your expenses...

exhausted the generosity
of Mademoiselle Esther...

Her change of heart
was not to your liking.

So...

What are you saying!?

You're lying!

Where have you been getting
all your money?

You don't have any
personal fortune.

Well?

See who it is!

Where do you think
you're going?

I had to see you right away!

I've just come from Poitiers
where I arrested Esther's coachman.

Who ordered that?

The Attorney General...
Monsieur de Granville.

Oh? Well...good...So?

I've retrieved Baron de Nucingen's
300,000 francs...

and also found this letter...

Read it.

It proves the innocence of
Monsieur de Rubempr?...absolutely.

[Esther's suicide note to Lucien]
You may go, Contenson.

Monsieur...
I owe you an apology...

i thought you were guilty..
and you were only a victim...read it.

Forgive me, my love...

And I dared to accuse her!

It was undoubtedly
a fashionable error!

The other one did everything...
Did you read it?

He's the guilty one!

-The abbot Herrera ?
''Abbot''?...come off it!...

Do abbots murder?
He's no more than a runaway convict...

What are you saying?
Wait there a moment!...

Write!

Write it down...you idiot!

Then you assert that
the abbot Carlos Herrera...

Is none other than the convict Vautrin...
who escaped from Rochefort prison?

I'm giving him up to you...

because Esther must be revenged!

Then you can do nothing?

Nothing...absolutely nothing
my dear cousin.

Camusot is totally in charge
of this affair...

All we can do is rely on
his intelligence.

But Lucien is innocent!

Such an attractive boy in prison...
there's no justice anymore!

When I think of some petty constable

reading our letters!

I gave orders accordingly...
I hope they've been carried out.

Yes?

-Monsieur Camusot wants to see you.
-Show him in.

My apologies sir...

-I'm disturbing you...
-Not at all my friend!

Where are we up to in our affair?

Victory, sir...
Victory in every respect.

I have just exposed the most
famous criminal of our time!

Here is the statement
signed by Rubempr?.

Vautrin is ours!

You're right, madame...

De Rubempr? isn't guilty
of either theft or murder...

...but he has confessed to a crime
even bigger than those.

Which crime?

He acknowledged that an escapee
was his mentor and companion.

In this account
his innocence is no help.

Vautrin will face the criminal court...

and de Rubempr? will be shown
to have been the friend of this man.

Isn't that so,
Monsieur Camusot?

Never!...I'd rather die
than see that man!...

shown to be a convict's friend.

I shall make myself heard
by His Majesty!

The king hasn't the slightest power
over the most stupid of magistrates...

That's the greatness
of our liberal institutions...

For Monsieur Camusot it's just
a matter of conscience.

So you'll just have to try to fall in with
Monsieur Camusot's conscience.

Your masterpiece my friend!

Well done!

I hope the prosecutor
doesn't commit the folly...

of parting with such a
clever magistrate as yourself!

Am I to understand that here
is where I shall spend my life?

You suddenly catch on very quickly...

Why did you leave it so late?
Show me this stupid document...

Is this your only proof?

The only one. The only copy.

-Perfect!
-Stop...you haven't the right!

I protest...I order you...

Oh, you...

You've assaulted a magistrate!

Other magistrates
would have loved it!

It's a crime against justice!...
I shall complain!...

Come...come...take it easy!

These cries are not worthy
of a Counsellor to the Court!

''Counsellor to the Court!...''

As soon as a position
becomes vacant of course.

Madame...really!...

Anything new, ladies?

I think everything's worked out
for the best.

The abbot Carlos Herrera has been
the victim of a judicial error.

Monsieur Camusot has fixed it
with his usual finesse.

I congratulate you in
resisting outside influence...

and only obeyed
your own good sense!

You will be a great magistrate.

There's nothing to stop me
seeing Lucien now!

Of course!...

Bring him into my office.

Camusot...help him.

Monsieur...you are a criminal.

You escaped our justice...
but will not escape that of God!

You will receive your punishment
and I pity you...it will be terrible!

Prison?

Hell!...
de Rubempr? is dead.

Lucien?

Dead?...It can't be true!

How? Who killed him?

You did...

He hanged himself in his cell
because his mistress was dead...

and her death was all your fault.

Might I get some gesture
of pity from you?

You'll see it...
We'll take you to him...

Thanks for thinking of it.

Would you excuse me please,
Duchess...

but it looks as though the Countess
is getting her colour back!

You're right...

L?ontine, my dear...

Lucien...my poor love!

You may go...thanks!

Cry your eyes out!...it's the best way
of washing your grief away.

Well?

She won't die from grief.
She looks pretty when she's suffering.

Any news about our letters?

The searches have yielded nothing.

They've probably been hidden...

A tough character, this Vautrin...

With these letters signed by
L?ontine, Clotilde et Diane...

he's more powerful locked in his cell
than you and the police.

If ever those wretched letters
ceased to be a secret...

There's nothing like the wind of scandal
to ruffle the hair of kings...

You can take him.

Let's not beat about the bush...
you have a trump card...

You have letters from three of
the grand dames of the kingdom...

Cards on the table...
what do you want in exchange?

Nothing...Monsieur Attorney General...

I'd been counting on the letters
as my ultimate defence...

but now there's nothing
to defend.

Your freedom perhaps?

What good
would that do me?

You'll have those letters
within the hour...

Do what you want with me.

What gave you the idea
I'm generous?

No matter...For 20 years, I've seen
another side to the world...

it's lower depths...it's cellars...
Because I despised it, I thought

that it was right, for those
smart enough, to take from it...

But no...Above all of us,
there is still something...

-Providence...
-Yes.

Providence has come down on me
in one fell swoop.

But even in prison...I can be free.

You are a free man.

You might even make
a useful man...

if you show the inclination.

The throne is trembling
on its foundations.

It's better to have at its service
the abilities of an adventurer...

than the conscience of an imbecile.

You'll find out that doing good
is not as easy as doing evil...

and if you are willing to be put
in the service of His majesty...

the liberty which I grant
in his name...is yours.

On your way, Monsieur.

Subtitles by FatPlank [RLB] for KG