Flambards (1979–…): Season 1, Episode 8 - Flying High - full transcript
To PMY ♥ Love RPY
Did you have a nice time in France?
I can't hear you.
I said did you have a nice time in France?
I didn't go for a nice time.
I went to deliver an aeroplane
and make some money.
Did you?
What?
Deliver the aeroplane
and make some money?
Yes.
Not only that, I had a nice time.
Huh.
I brought some magazines for
you. They're on the workbench.
Rude ones?
Aeronautical.
What a pity.
They any good?
I have no idea.
They're all in French.
Never know.
Might turn out to be rude.
Christina?
Are you in there?
Open the door, please.
What's all that?
Had a good time in France?
Very nice. Why are
you bringing that in here?
Oh, they need wrapping and packing.
Have you been sticking something?
It's a secret.
Oh, I like secrets.
What about that crockery?
Don't change the
subject. That's a secret too.
I like secrets.
Christina Parsons,
I can see by the look on your face that
you're bursting to show
me what's behind your back.
I got it in writing.
La la la la la...
So that's what la belle
France did for you.
Oh, it was very romantic.
I'm saving up for a cheap
picture frame from Woolworth.
Ah-hah...
Ah-ho
I know you spent the night together.
You wicked things.
We did,
I suppose.
Did you?
In a dirty, smelly
French barn.
When do I start
on the invitations?
Neither of us is twenty-one.
So?
We need permission.
Permission?
From Uncle Russell.
Oh, he's the
grizzly one, isn't he?
Mm, some of the time.
Most of the time.
Well, he must be quite old.
Might die soon.
Hang on by his
fingernails, just for spite.
As bad as that?
Why am I wrapping crockery?
Hmm?
Why am I wrapping crockery?
Um...
I've been thieving.
You've stolen these?
It's not myself...for two friends.
And I should be borrowing
some sheets and blankets as well.
Who for?
Sandy and W...
Sandy and your fiance.
Why?
I found them a flat.
And do they want one?
Well, Sandy does. He wants to be near the
airfield, and I'm sure William will share.
I'm not so sure.
Why not?
Money...He hasn't
paid for his leg yet.
Oh, well, Sandy
won't charge him.
Anyway, it'll be cheaper sharing rooms.
I don't know.
Especially with
me providing them.
Dorothy!
Anyway, it'll be a ripping
place to have parties.
You're the one
that wants this flat.
I quite like one of those as well.
Hmm.
When do you think
she'll be ready?
In time for the test flight.
According to your schedule.
William?
Do you realise what's in this
magazine you brought back?
Rude pictures?
A detailed account of
Peugeot looping the loop.
Where?...Show me.
Will I understand?
Yes, it mentioned it in the
newspaper this morning,
but all it said was stuff
about the crowd gasping.
Yes, he's got an 80 horsepower engine.
Eighty horsepower engine?
That's not the point, is it, Joe?
The higher the horsepower,
the more weight you're carrying
And the greater the stress.
And that's your department.
You set the wires at a
bigger angle from the cabane.
The maximum stress comes
at the bottom of the dive.
Yes.
I thought you'd be interested.
Let's have a look at the Bleriot.
I beg your pardon?
You're not thinking of it?
You must be mad.
If I wasn't, I'd be working
in a bank or something.
But what about Christina?
I'm not asking Christina
to loop the loop.
If you kill yourself...
I leave you all
my worldly debts.
Yes.
Yes.
What time did you
expect to arise, Mr Clark?
What is it?
Four sheets.
Uh...pardon?
No, that won't be too late.
You'll get me into trouble.
Companions in crime?
No.
No.
The main door may be shut,
but the night porter will let you in.
And your father?
Will never notice.
I'm terribly sorry I missed that.
No, there's no need, thank you.
Yes.
Goodbye.
You...uh...haven't got room
for a mattress, have you?
I'll have to write
an article about this.
What about? Looping the loop?
Haven't done it yet.
No, not that.
What then?
Title: "Aerodynamics and its Primary
Dependency on Bits of Old Rope."
Come on, sit down.
Hello.
Whichever you're doing?
Just routine.
The spirit of research.
It's a test flight.
What are you testing?
This piece of rope.
Uhh.
Right.
Right.
Out of the way, Christina.
Come on, Christina.
Now, then, everybody, I
need a fanfare of trumpets.
Right, Joe, switches on, throttle set.
Who's maddest? Him for
trying or us for letting him?
I know one thing.
You couldn't stop him.
Sandy, what's going on?
He's gonna loop the loop.
No he isn't.
All right. He's going to try.
He can't.
Just watch.
How did it feel?
You've gone mad.
There's only one serious problem.
You trying to kill yourself?
Wings stress?
No.
Only just enough power?
No.
But what then?
How to keep your breakfast down?
Listen, listen,
is Adams in yet?
No, I doubt it very much.
Are there any pupils waiting?
No.
Right.
Right, what?
We'll fix up the Blackburn
the same way and do it.
Together.
Precisely.
No
William.
Oh, please.
I'm sorry. Uh...
Listen, would you like another cup of tea?
Or a sausage roll perhaps?
No thank you, just
some peace and quiet.
All right.
Oy!
You two.
What the blazes do you
think you two were up to, eh?
Risking thousands of
pounds worth of equipment?
Bleriot's not even paid for yet.
Oy...
What I want to know is what
other fun and games have
you two been up to when
my back was turned, eh?
Nothing, Mr Adams. Honestly.
Now, why should
I believe that?
Because it's true.
You've got a nerve.
You'd think you didn't know that
there are dozens of young men
just dying to jump into your shoes.
They're not as good,
though, are they?
You insolent young...
There's absolutely no damage
to the planes, Mr Adams.
How can you be so
sure about that, eh?
What happens when
you take it up next time?
I'll check every inch.
It was a marvellous
bit of flying.
Come into the office.
Excuse us please, Miss Parsons.
Why not put on a display
and invite the public to come and watch?
Well, people certainly seem to be very interested.
Newspapers would
come here in droves
And with that
kind of publicity,
they come from miles around.
I wouldn't expect
you to do it for nothing.
How much do you
think it'll be worth?
Oh, it's hard to say.
It depends on how successful it is,
but I'd be surprised if you didn't
get a tenner out of it, at least.
I see.
Well, what do you think?
Oh, it sounds exciting to me.
How many people came to see the
Frenchman do his stuff?
I don't know. Did it say?
Wasn't it 3000?
Um...
Oh, yeah.
A great shout broke the
silence as 3000 jubilant
Frenchmen greeted the
completion of the configuration.
I didn't read that far before.
Well, even if you only charged them
a shilling each, that would be £150.
Would it?
That was quick.
£20 from £150 leaves £130.
Ah, yes.
It'd be very expensive...there'd
be advertising, pay for tickets
to have printed all sorts
of details to be dealt with.
You won't need much
outlay for advertising if the
newspapers give you the
free publicity you expect?
Yes, but you're forgetting...
You could probably sell quite
a lot of ice cream and drinks.
I take the risks.
Sandy takes the risk.
Oh, yeah.
Yes, of course.
I...I didn't mean...
And the aeroplanes are well
insured, if I'm not mistaken.
Yes, but...
I think you'll make
a very good manager, Mr. Adams
And Sandy here needs a good manager.
Who the blazes do you
think you're talking to?
And a manager usually receives
about 10% of the takings, I believe.
Are you out of your mind?
10% of 150 quid's only £15.
But I expect you will charge two shillings
and you might even get 6000 people along.
I create the conditions.
Not this time, Mr. Adams. The person
who loops the loop creates the conditions.
You've got no choice.
All right.
20%.
Will you give him 20% Sandy?
What do you mean, me?
You'll see.
Will you settle for 15?
I suppose so.
15% Mr Adams.
I think you should shake
hands with your new manager.
Well, what about you?
Well, I'll get the planes
in tip top condition.
But apart from that,
I'm not interested.
Flying is flying.
Turning it into a circus,
that's something else.
I never liked
performing animals.
I'm not that keen on animals.
Christina.
What's in here?
Empty bottles.
Why are we smuggling
out empty bottles?
Well, I thought I could put some candles
in them. Make a nice party atmosphere.
They're very heavy
for empty bottles.
Really?
Oh, let's have a look.
Oh, no.
What a terrible mistake.
They're full bottles.
And there I was,
thinking they were empty.
It's champagne.
Dorothy!
Oh, well, we'll just have to
make the best of it, won't we?
We'll just have to drink the
champagne before we put in the candles.
Candles!
Must get some candles.
I won't do it.
But you need the money.
Yes,
Much more than I do.
Yes.
Well, why not do it till
you've paid off your debts?
Look, doing something you don't
want to do just for money is
Well, it's not for me.
But you're the best flyer.
Probably the best in the country.
You'll be only half the
spectacle without you.
People watching won't
know the difference.
They won't have heard of me.
Look, Sandy, I want you to do it.
You'll do it well.
What's more
important, you'll enjoy it.
It's simply not my idea
of what flying is about.
So what is it about
for you there?
This:
Drawing and designing,
building and planning.
You'll still be able to do all that.
Rushing around the country doing
exhibitions. It'll go out of the window.
But if you made a
name for yourself,
they'd be queuing up to buy your
designs and build your planes.
I don't think so.
I remember what that fellow at Brooklyn
said when I showed him my drawings.
Build it, he said,
and show us it works.
I don't think you'd be impressed
by me looping the loop.
No changing in your mind?
Fraid not.
Well, I'd better tell Mr...
My manager
That's better.
Keep him in his place.
Oh, there's one thing
I would like to do.
Yes?
I'd like to share your flat.
Well, that's something.
But I'm going to pay my way.
How?
With your away doing displays,
I'll have to take your pupils.
And that will mean a pay rise.
Has Mr. Adams agreed?
Oh, no.
He doesn't know about it yet.
Huh.
You know,
I think they're going to get quite
a surprise when they get home.
I wouldn't be so
sure it would be "they"
You don't know my William.
Oh, well, if he doesn't
come, I shall go and kidnap him.
In a month or two, everybody will
be looping the loop, I'll bet.
You think so?
Bound to.
As soon as somebody starts...
That means Sandy'll have to find
something new and more spectacular.
Yes,
Something new
and probably more dangerous.
He's nothing to worry
about. He's very good.
Hmm-Hmm.
That's one thing
I didn't tell him.
What?
Well, I suspect that these people
who pay to see these flying
displays are secretly hoping to see
something that really is spectacular.
Like a crash
or like somebody getting killed.
Excuse me?
Oh, sorry to interrupt,
but can you tell me where I might
find Miss Christina Parsons?
Sorry I couldn't provide proper
glasses. I couldn't get hold of the key.
Who cares?
Fancy having so much to celebrate?
Here's to the
intrepid aviation hero.
Yes.
Congratulations, Sandy.
I haven't actually
done anything yet.
Not for money.
Wait a minute.
What?
- First things first,
Dorothy, I should
have done that.
What is it?
Oh, that.
What do you mean, "Oh, that"?
That's evidence, William.
Legal and binding.
Here's to the newly engaged couple.
Cheers.
And now I'm going to have the first
dance with your new fiance, Christina.
Mmm...No, you're not.
You've done enough
thieving for one day.
I don't believe it. Two
beautiful girls fighting over me.
I'll settle this.
Come on, Dorothy.
You're doing beautifully, Sandy.
This turns very neatly.
She was 20 years old.
Don't go too near the
sun, the wings might melt
Sandy, my love, shut up.
Well, I know. Come on.
Hey.
Is that a knock at the door?
I didn't hear anything.
Someone complaining about the noise.
Come in.
I'm sorry to bother
you, but can you tell me...
Mark!
Oh, you are here
and William?
Yes, I'm here too. Come in.
I'm sorry to be interrupting
your party. I, uh...
That's quite all right.
You're most welcome.
Two friends of ours.
Dorothy, Sandy.
William's brother, Mark.
Nice to meet you.
You sounded to be having
a good time. I'm sorry if I...
Oh, no need to be embarrassed.
Can I offer you a
mug of champagne?
No, thank you. I can't stay long.
Mark.
Uniform.
Oh, yes. I've joined
the Essex Yeomanry.
Got Treasure with me too. We
travelled down this afternoon.
Don't talk about horses.
You sure you won't have a drink?
It's not a party visit.
It's...uh...family business.
We don't have any secrets.
Too poor, can't
afford secrets.
Father died last night.
I see.
I'm sorry.
It was quite
peaceful, and, uh...
Well, thank you
for letting us know.
Funeral will probably
be early next week.
I'll let you know about that, too.
There's no need.
William.
Unless you want
to go, Christina.
Yes, I shall go.
I think you ought to, William.
I've never done what I ought to do.
Besides, I'm glad he's dead.
Just as he'd have been glad if I'd kill
myself in my aeroplane some afternoon.
It was always mutual.
You must do whatever you think right.
Can I say something
really awful?
Can we stop you?
Well, this means the two
of you can get married.
Whenever you like.
Yes,
That's precisely what it means.
Let's drink to that.
Mark,
Will you drink that?
It's very good Champagne.
I'll force myself.
Fine upstanding Christian gentleman.
Russell?
Shh...He's heard you.
Conscience picking him, I
expect. Russell to church?
The vicar never came here.
You've no need to be a church girl
to be a good Christian.
Oh, Maggie.
The only god our brother ever
worshipped had four legs and a tail.
Like a sandwich, Aunt Maggie?
Thank you, Christina.
Aunt Grace?
No, thank you.
What I want to know
is, where is William?
He's working today.
You get time off to go to a funeral.
You did, didn't you?
Yes.
I don't think he asked the time off.
I know he wasn't an easy man.
Oh, but that's no reason not to
attend your father's funeral.
I did try to persuade him.
I don't blame him.
I beg your pardon?
I said I don't blame William.
Really, Mark.
The only thing William ever
got from Father was thrashings,
Which is what Russell
got from Grandfather.
But it didn't stop him
from going to his funeral.
Or perhaps Grandfather gave
him something besides thrashings.
You mean that he...
I mean the grandfather left
him Flambards when he died.
Excuse me, I...
Do you mean William doesn't
share Flambards with you?
No, he's lucky.
There's nothing but debts to inherit.
But he gets nothing?
Not even a blade of grass.
Excuse me. I really must
go and talk to the undertaker.
Have a sandwich, Fowler.
Thank you, Miss.
How are you keeping?
I keep going.
And what's to become of you?
I don't know
Master Mark says he
wants me to stay on,
but they ain't sorted
out the money side yet.
I hope you do.
Flambards will become a
complete ruin if you don't.
Have you had any news from Dick?
Not a word.
Not a blessed old word.
I suppose you'll be thinking
about marriage now?
Yes, soon I hope.
You're not yet 21.
Since Uncle Russell
was guardian...
The guardianship
passes automatically to me.
You won't try to stop us?
That depends, doesn't it?
On what?
On what your young genius can
provide. He's got nothing of this.
He's got much more than this.
He's very clever and he's building...
You'd better tell him I wish to see him.
And he can tell me himself.
I'm only doing what your
mother would have done.
Goodbye, my dear.
Look after yourself.
Please, Aunt Grace.
You won't try to stop us?
Nothing improves, does it?
I've stopped looking.
Bit of ceiling, looks as if it's going
to come crashing down in a minute.
Don't remind me. I don't
want to know about it.
Now, where's that young William?
Now, he should have been here today.
I know.
They were all saying so.
Well, he should.
Some things are expected.
Playing with his toys,
I shouldn't wonder.
Aeroplanes aren't toys.
Excuse me.
Are you winning?
Slowly.
I suppose I could help.
Yes.
By keeping out of the way.
Thank you for
sticking up for William.
I was only telling the truth.
Thank you for
telling the truth.
Is it worth it?
Is what worth it?
William's famous aeroplane.
Is it worth all the effort?
Come and see it for yourself.
They all look the same to me.
But I might.
I enjoy a good laugh.
Hm.
I wish I was famous.
Don't you, Christina?
You are.
You're Sandy's...
Almost fiance?
It's like being Prince Consort.
Queen Consort.
Is it?
if you girls aren't doing anything too
important, I wonder if you wouldn't mind
lending a hand?
I think it's probably different
than being Prince Consort.
Mechanics labourer.
Hm.
Right.
Leave her there.
Stand back, everybody.
Christina.
She is beautiful.
Isn't she?
I think we should open a
bottle of Champagne on her.
Yes.
Well, perhaps not.
Right, gentlemen.
Right, William.
Here we go.
Switch is on, Joe.
Set.
Something sounds
a bit wrong to me.
Yes.
I could feel the
compression going.
I heard it.
It's awful when your
compression goes, isn't it?
It's not funny.
Gasket's blown.
Ah,
Can you make another, Joe?
Ran out of stuff.
There's plenty in
the Bleriot hanger.
It's the wrong thickness.
Well...
Someone had better
go to the factory.
I've got to teach some
idiot aristocrat to fly.
I've got to strip the Blackburn
down. Get it ready by tomorrow.
Oh, damn.
I'll go.
It'll take hours.
I may be a circus pilot,
but I still want to see this
magnificent aircraft flying.
Well, I'll go into town with you. Might
even get one of those oily love letters.
Is it serious?
Mr. Wilson is coming from Brooklyn's
on Friday to watch a full scale
test flight and I can't
even get it off the ground.
I'm sure Mr. Wilson
will think it is wonderful.
It's not just Mr. Wilson who
has to think it's wonderful.
And how is the famous aeroplane?
It's progressing.
One or two problems,
but we'll soon solve them.
When does the man come to, um,
watch the test flight? Is that the phrase?
Tomorrow
And you're confident he'll give you
a marvellous job with good money?
Yes.
Well, you're going to need to pay
for that carpet you're wearing out.
I'm sorry.
Sit down.
Save yourself some pennies.
How can you be so confident
that you'll get the job you want?
The man at Brooklyn saw
my designs and said "Build it"
and I have built it.
He might have been joking.
Yes, I think he
probably was joking.
And he said that
just to get rid of you.
I'm sure he did.
But I've done it.
And tomorrow he's sending along
his chief designer to see what I've done.
But are you sure
he'll offer you a job?
I'm sure he will.
The world needs aeroplanes
and people who design aeroplanes.
That means me.
You are the George
Stevenson of the 20th century.
I didn't say that.
You have as much
energy as a steam engine.
But what concerns me is the
future Mrs George Stevens.
I can look after Christina.
Only if you've got a good job.
So all I need is a telegram
telling me you've got one.
And you won't make
us wait until she's 21?
I'd have to go to some
court in London and
tell some judge or other
to do something legal.
Heaven knows what sort of a nonsensical
tangle it would all be. Very silly.
What I want is to put some
brakes on your flying machine.
What's so amusing about that?
Well, aeroplanes
don't have brakes.
Who'd better put your
mind to that, Mr Stevens?
Very good.
As soon as I get back.
I've got something
for you and Christina.
Eureka.
I found the magic gasket.
Put it in a safe place.
I'll be ready for it
in about five minutes.
Right.
Is William back yet?
No.
Said not to expect him to
until later on...people to see.
I wonder what that means.
No idea. Can I help?
- No, I..
I just want him to take
a look at the Bleriot.
There's a warp
wire giving trouble.
Developing a mind of its own.
Should I come?
No, it can wait.
This is the one that matters.
Any chance of you helping me?
If I'm allowed.
Of course.
She told me off about the funeral.
I did warn you.
But we reached an understanding.
I get the job,
I get the girl.
And tomorrow you'll get
the job from Mr. Wilson
Provided I get the
Dermot off the ground.
You going down that tonight?
Naturally.
Can I come and help?
I finish in 20 minutes.
You could set the job back
a whole week if you come.
You don't deserve me.
You sure you don't mind helping? I mean,
if you've got problems with the Bleriot.
I've already said
I may be a circus pilot,
but I know a real aeroplane when I see one.
This one, Joe.
Let's get moving.
I was going to
give you a present.
I may still be
prepared to accept it.
Do you know what this is?
I can make an intelligent guess.
An engagement ring?
It's more than that.
Your mother's engagement ring?
She told you?
There.
Will you marry me?
I shouldn't be at all surprised.
Oh, what a lovely picture.
You're only jealous.
That's quite true, actually.
Oh, Christina.
It's beautiful.
It was my mother's.
Oh, it's lovely.
Oh, no, no
She wouldn't hear
of a registry office.
That's wonderful.
That way we both
get new dresses.
What about the costs?
She says she's got
a little money put by.
She's probably been saving.
She's certainly quite a
character, your Aunt Grace.
Hmm
I'm going to pay her
back the minute I'm 21.
I doubt if she'd accept it.
Oh, I'm so excited.
Anyone would think
you were getting married.
Oh, and is the big, handsome brother
of yours to be best man, William?
Another man to flirt with?
Oh, you're in... You're in...
What's the word?
Incomprehensible?
- She is that...in...
Inconstant?
And that too...William, what's
the word I'm thinking of? In...
Incorrigible.
Incorrigible!
Oh, well, I don't know what
big words like that mean.
Have you switched it on?
Oh.
Anyway, I have a
disappointment for you, Dorothy.
Sandy's going to be my best man.
Oh, you're not going to fall out
with your family, again, are you?
You can't do that, William.
Mark won't want anything
to do with our wedding.
That's absolutely ridiculous.
In any case, Mark can't be this man because
he's got a very important job to do.
What?
He's the only one who
can give Christina away.
It's nice being encorrigible,
even if I don't know what it means.
Incorrigible.
Oh,
Yes.
These wires need tightening.
Need tightening?
And it needs
another coat of dope.
Another coat of dope?
Yes.
Oh
You're going to marry a bigamist.
Who?
William...Just look at him.
He's married already
What's this?
Ah...well, um...
It sort of came undone.
You mean you couldn't
put it back together again.
Good luck.
Yes.
I said "good luck"
Yes.
Are you going to wish me luck?
Yes. Good luck.
That was magnificent.
Smooth and powerful.
The acceleration at
take off was amazing.
Yes, I was very
pleased about that.
Any problems?
I think she's a pound
or two light in the tail.
Can you find anything
suitable to put in for now, Joe?
I've got just the thing.
What?
My share of the takings
from Percy Adams.
Great big bag of two
shilling pieces. Shall I get it?
Why not?
You will have the only
plane with a silver lining.
I'd be satisfied with
that for the first day.
Not William
And speaking as one who
has flown the English Channel
in both directions.
Neither would I.
Ah-hah.
And what did you say
to Monsieur Bleriot?
Oh, I wish it was over.
What?
Look.
Oh, is that him?
Mr Wilson.
I think it must be
Just the thing.
Is it heavy enough?
He's got a kind face.
Williams says
he's hard as nails.
You know that chap from
Brooklyn's has just arrived.
Mr Wilson? Yes, I can see him.
Anyway, good luck.
Oh, don't start all that again.
Please yourself.
Just take care of my money.
Free to watch?
Mark, what are you doing here?
You invited me.
Came for a good
laugh, remember?
Actually, it's
all rather serious.
Oh, something special going on?
Not really.
Just my whole
married life at stake.
Oh, is that all?
Quiet.
He's done it!...Oh, Christina!
Oh!
Thank you.
I enjoyed that.
So I told him I didn't
expect to be made
Managing Director for at
least another 18 months.
Oh, what cheek!
You've done it now.
I don't know how you dared.
He just laughed. Anyway,
I've got the designing job.
And that's what matters.
There's only one word to
describe you: Encorrigible.
Well, that makes two of us.
Excuse me.
Yes.
Did you send a
telegram to Aunt Grace?
Of course.
Well done, little brother.
Thank you, Mark.
Let's go and celebrate.
What the devil's going on
here? Is nobody doing any work?
Your Bleriot's got to be tested.
Mr. Dickinson's got his lesson in 10 minutes.
Now get moving, all of you.
Sorry.
Of course, I realise that
Bleriot is an inferior aeroplane
compared with yours, William.
But one of you
still want to test it?
I'll do it.
Come on, I'll do it.
Why don't you toss a
coin? It would be quicker.
All right.
Heads.
Excuse me.
Right.
Invitation list.
Invitation list? The bands
haven't been read yet.
Can't start too early.
You can put me down.
Just family.
Now, Aunt Grace...
Mark Russell.
You need more than that.
It's my wedding.
M-A-R-K.
And Aunt Grace is paying for it.
She wouldn't want a Thomas Haney Affair.
Don't you ever listen?
Hardly ever.
She's not rich.
Oh, but she'll have to...
What's happening?
The Bleriot. Fire on the deck.
Get the tankers out-quickly.
It's no use.
Who is it?
Sandy.
Oh, no.
No.
Oh.
I thought it was you.
Subtitle © RPY 2023
Did you have a nice time in France?
I can't hear you.
I said did you have a nice time in France?
I didn't go for a nice time.
I went to deliver an aeroplane
and make some money.
Did you?
What?
Deliver the aeroplane
and make some money?
Yes.
Not only that, I had a nice time.
Huh.
I brought some magazines for
you. They're on the workbench.
Rude ones?
Aeronautical.
What a pity.
They any good?
I have no idea.
They're all in French.
Never know.
Might turn out to be rude.
Christina?
Are you in there?
Open the door, please.
What's all that?
Had a good time in France?
Very nice. Why are
you bringing that in here?
Oh, they need wrapping and packing.
Have you been sticking something?
It's a secret.
Oh, I like secrets.
What about that crockery?
Don't change the
subject. That's a secret too.
I like secrets.
Christina Parsons,
I can see by the look on your face that
you're bursting to show
me what's behind your back.
I got it in writing.
La la la la la...
So that's what la belle
France did for you.
Oh, it was very romantic.
I'm saving up for a cheap
picture frame from Woolworth.
Ah-hah...
Ah-ho
I know you spent the night together.
You wicked things.
We did,
I suppose.
Did you?
In a dirty, smelly
French barn.
When do I start
on the invitations?
Neither of us is twenty-one.
So?
We need permission.
Permission?
From Uncle Russell.
Oh, he's the
grizzly one, isn't he?
Mm, some of the time.
Most of the time.
Well, he must be quite old.
Might die soon.
Hang on by his
fingernails, just for spite.
As bad as that?
Why am I wrapping crockery?
Hmm?
Why am I wrapping crockery?
Um...
I've been thieving.
You've stolen these?
It's not myself...for two friends.
And I should be borrowing
some sheets and blankets as well.
Who for?
Sandy and W...
Sandy and your fiance.
Why?
I found them a flat.
And do they want one?
Well, Sandy does. He wants to be near the
airfield, and I'm sure William will share.
I'm not so sure.
Why not?
Money...He hasn't
paid for his leg yet.
Oh, well, Sandy
won't charge him.
Anyway, it'll be cheaper sharing rooms.
I don't know.
Especially with
me providing them.
Dorothy!
Anyway, it'll be a ripping
place to have parties.
You're the one
that wants this flat.
I quite like one of those as well.
Hmm.
When do you think
she'll be ready?
In time for the test flight.
According to your schedule.
William?
Do you realise what's in this
magazine you brought back?
Rude pictures?
A detailed account of
Peugeot looping the loop.
Where?...Show me.
Will I understand?
Yes, it mentioned it in the
newspaper this morning,
but all it said was stuff
about the crowd gasping.
Yes, he's got an 80 horsepower engine.
Eighty horsepower engine?
That's not the point, is it, Joe?
The higher the horsepower,
the more weight you're carrying
And the greater the stress.
And that's your department.
You set the wires at a
bigger angle from the cabane.
The maximum stress comes
at the bottom of the dive.
Yes.
I thought you'd be interested.
Let's have a look at the Bleriot.
I beg your pardon?
You're not thinking of it?
You must be mad.
If I wasn't, I'd be working
in a bank or something.
But what about Christina?
I'm not asking Christina
to loop the loop.
If you kill yourself...
I leave you all
my worldly debts.
Yes.
Yes.
What time did you
expect to arise, Mr Clark?
What is it?
Four sheets.
Uh...pardon?
No, that won't be too late.
You'll get me into trouble.
Companions in crime?
No.
No.
The main door may be shut,
but the night porter will let you in.
And your father?
Will never notice.
I'm terribly sorry I missed that.
No, there's no need, thank you.
Yes.
Goodbye.
You...uh...haven't got room
for a mattress, have you?
I'll have to write
an article about this.
What about? Looping the loop?
Haven't done it yet.
No, not that.
What then?
Title: "Aerodynamics and its Primary
Dependency on Bits of Old Rope."
Come on, sit down.
Hello.
Whichever you're doing?
Just routine.
The spirit of research.
It's a test flight.
What are you testing?
This piece of rope.
Uhh.
Right.
Right.
Out of the way, Christina.
Come on, Christina.
Now, then, everybody, I
need a fanfare of trumpets.
Right, Joe, switches on, throttle set.
Who's maddest? Him for
trying or us for letting him?
I know one thing.
You couldn't stop him.
Sandy, what's going on?
He's gonna loop the loop.
No he isn't.
All right. He's going to try.
He can't.
Just watch.
How did it feel?
You've gone mad.
There's only one serious problem.
You trying to kill yourself?
Wings stress?
No.
Only just enough power?
No.
But what then?
How to keep your breakfast down?
Listen, listen,
is Adams in yet?
No, I doubt it very much.
Are there any pupils waiting?
No.
Right.
Right, what?
We'll fix up the Blackburn
the same way and do it.
Together.
Precisely.
No
William.
Oh, please.
I'm sorry. Uh...
Listen, would you like another cup of tea?
Or a sausage roll perhaps?
No thank you, just
some peace and quiet.
All right.
Oy!
You two.
What the blazes do you
think you two were up to, eh?
Risking thousands of
pounds worth of equipment?
Bleriot's not even paid for yet.
Oy...
What I want to know is what
other fun and games have
you two been up to when
my back was turned, eh?
Nothing, Mr Adams. Honestly.
Now, why should
I believe that?
Because it's true.
You've got a nerve.
You'd think you didn't know that
there are dozens of young men
just dying to jump into your shoes.
They're not as good,
though, are they?
You insolent young...
There's absolutely no damage
to the planes, Mr Adams.
How can you be so
sure about that, eh?
What happens when
you take it up next time?
I'll check every inch.
It was a marvellous
bit of flying.
Come into the office.
Excuse us please, Miss Parsons.
Why not put on a display
and invite the public to come and watch?
Well, people certainly seem to be very interested.
Newspapers would
come here in droves
And with that
kind of publicity,
they come from miles around.
I wouldn't expect
you to do it for nothing.
How much do you
think it'll be worth?
Oh, it's hard to say.
It depends on how successful it is,
but I'd be surprised if you didn't
get a tenner out of it, at least.
I see.
Well, what do you think?
Oh, it sounds exciting to me.
How many people came to see the
Frenchman do his stuff?
I don't know. Did it say?
Wasn't it 3000?
Um...
Oh, yeah.
A great shout broke the
silence as 3000 jubilant
Frenchmen greeted the
completion of the configuration.
I didn't read that far before.
Well, even if you only charged them
a shilling each, that would be £150.
Would it?
That was quick.
£20 from £150 leaves £130.
Ah, yes.
It'd be very expensive...there'd
be advertising, pay for tickets
to have printed all sorts
of details to be dealt with.
You won't need much
outlay for advertising if the
newspapers give you the
free publicity you expect?
Yes, but you're forgetting...
You could probably sell quite
a lot of ice cream and drinks.
I take the risks.
Sandy takes the risk.
Oh, yeah.
Yes, of course.
I...I didn't mean...
And the aeroplanes are well
insured, if I'm not mistaken.
Yes, but...
I think you'll make
a very good manager, Mr. Adams
And Sandy here needs a good manager.
Who the blazes do you
think you're talking to?
And a manager usually receives
about 10% of the takings, I believe.
Are you out of your mind?
10% of 150 quid's only £15.
But I expect you will charge two shillings
and you might even get 6000 people along.
I create the conditions.
Not this time, Mr. Adams. The person
who loops the loop creates the conditions.
You've got no choice.
All right.
20%.
Will you give him 20% Sandy?
What do you mean, me?
You'll see.
Will you settle for 15?
I suppose so.
15% Mr Adams.
I think you should shake
hands with your new manager.
Well, what about you?
Well, I'll get the planes
in tip top condition.
But apart from that,
I'm not interested.
Flying is flying.
Turning it into a circus,
that's something else.
I never liked
performing animals.
I'm not that keen on animals.
Christina.
What's in here?
Empty bottles.
Why are we smuggling
out empty bottles?
Well, I thought I could put some candles
in them. Make a nice party atmosphere.
They're very heavy
for empty bottles.
Really?
Oh, let's have a look.
Oh, no.
What a terrible mistake.
They're full bottles.
And there I was,
thinking they were empty.
It's champagne.
Dorothy!
Oh, well, we'll just have to
make the best of it, won't we?
We'll just have to drink the
champagne before we put in the candles.
Candles!
Must get some candles.
I won't do it.
But you need the money.
Yes,
Much more than I do.
Yes.
Well, why not do it till
you've paid off your debts?
Look, doing something you don't
want to do just for money is
Well, it's not for me.
But you're the best flyer.
Probably the best in the country.
You'll be only half the
spectacle without you.
People watching won't
know the difference.
They won't have heard of me.
Look, Sandy, I want you to do it.
You'll do it well.
What's more
important, you'll enjoy it.
It's simply not my idea
of what flying is about.
So what is it about
for you there?
This:
Drawing and designing,
building and planning.
You'll still be able to do all that.
Rushing around the country doing
exhibitions. It'll go out of the window.
But if you made a
name for yourself,
they'd be queuing up to buy your
designs and build your planes.
I don't think so.
I remember what that fellow at Brooklyn
said when I showed him my drawings.
Build it, he said,
and show us it works.
I don't think you'd be impressed
by me looping the loop.
No changing in your mind?
Fraid not.
Well, I'd better tell Mr...
My manager
That's better.
Keep him in his place.
Oh, there's one thing
I would like to do.
Yes?
I'd like to share your flat.
Well, that's something.
But I'm going to pay my way.
How?
With your away doing displays,
I'll have to take your pupils.
And that will mean a pay rise.
Has Mr. Adams agreed?
Oh, no.
He doesn't know about it yet.
Huh.
You know,
I think they're going to get quite
a surprise when they get home.
I wouldn't be so
sure it would be "they"
You don't know my William.
Oh, well, if he doesn't
come, I shall go and kidnap him.
In a month or two, everybody will
be looping the loop, I'll bet.
You think so?
Bound to.
As soon as somebody starts...
That means Sandy'll have to find
something new and more spectacular.
Yes,
Something new
and probably more dangerous.
He's nothing to worry
about. He's very good.
Hmm-Hmm.
That's one thing
I didn't tell him.
What?
Well, I suspect that these people
who pay to see these flying
displays are secretly hoping to see
something that really is spectacular.
Like a crash
or like somebody getting killed.
Excuse me?
Oh, sorry to interrupt,
but can you tell me where I might
find Miss Christina Parsons?
Sorry I couldn't provide proper
glasses. I couldn't get hold of the key.
Who cares?
Fancy having so much to celebrate?
Here's to the
intrepid aviation hero.
Yes.
Congratulations, Sandy.
I haven't actually
done anything yet.
Not for money.
Wait a minute.
What?
- First things first,
Dorothy, I should
have done that.
What is it?
Oh, that.
What do you mean, "Oh, that"?
That's evidence, William.
Legal and binding.
Here's to the newly engaged couple.
Cheers.
And now I'm going to have the first
dance with your new fiance, Christina.
Mmm...No, you're not.
You've done enough
thieving for one day.
I don't believe it. Two
beautiful girls fighting over me.
I'll settle this.
Come on, Dorothy.
You're doing beautifully, Sandy.
This turns very neatly.
She was 20 years old.
Don't go too near the
sun, the wings might melt
Sandy, my love, shut up.
Well, I know. Come on.
Hey.
Is that a knock at the door?
I didn't hear anything.
Someone complaining about the noise.
Come in.
I'm sorry to bother
you, but can you tell me...
Mark!
Oh, you are here
and William?
Yes, I'm here too. Come in.
I'm sorry to be interrupting
your party. I, uh...
That's quite all right.
You're most welcome.
Two friends of ours.
Dorothy, Sandy.
William's brother, Mark.
Nice to meet you.
You sounded to be having
a good time. I'm sorry if I...
Oh, no need to be embarrassed.
Can I offer you a
mug of champagne?
No, thank you. I can't stay long.
Mark.
Uniform.
Oh, yes. I've joined
the Essex Yeomanry.
Got Treasure with me too. We
travelled down this afternoon.
Don't talk about horses.
You sure you won't have a drink?
It's not a party visit.
It's...uh...family business.
We don't have any secrets.
Too poor, can't
afford secrets.
Father died last night.
I see.
I'm sorry.
It was quite
peaceful, and, uh...
Well, thank you
for letting us know.
Funeral will probably
be early next week.
I'll let you know about that, too.
There's no need.
William.
Unless you want
to go, Christina.
Yes, I shall go.
I think you ought to, William.
I've never done what I ought to do.
Besides, I'm glad he's dead.
Just as he'd have been glad if I'd kill
myself in my aeroplane some afternoon.
It was always mutual.
You must do whatever you think right.
Can I say something
really awful?
Can we stop you?
Well, this means the two
of you can get married.
Whenever you like.
Yes,
That's precisely what it means.
Let's drink to that.
Mark,
Will you drink that?
It's very good Champagne.
I'll force myself.
Fine upstanding Christian gentleman.
Russell?
Shh...He's heard you.
Conscience picking him, I
expect. Russell to church?
The vicar never came here.
You've no need to be a church girl
to be a good Christian.
Oh, Maggie.
The only god our brother ever
worshipped had four legs and a tail.
Like a sandwich, Aunt Maggie?
Thank you, Christina.
Aunt Grace?
No, thank you.
What I want to know
is, where is William?
He's working today.
You get time off to go to a funeral.
You did, didn't you?
Yes.
I don't think he asked the time off.
I know he wasn't an easy man.
Oh, but that's no reason not to
attend your father's funeral.
I did try to persuade him.
I don't blame him.
I beg your pardon?
I said I don't blame William.
Really, Mark.
The only thing William ever
got from Father was thrashings,
Which is what Russell
got from Grandfather.
But it didn't stop him
from going to his funeral.
Or perhaps Grandfather gave
him something besides thrashings.
You mean that he...
I mean the grandfather left
him Flambards when he died.
Excuse me, I...
Do you mean William doesn't
share Flambards with you?
No, he's lucky.
There's nothing but debts to inherit.
But he gets nothing?
Not even a blade of grass.
Excuse me. I really must
go and talk to the undertaker.
Have a sandwich, Fowler.
Thank you, Miss.
How are you keeping?
I keep going.
And what's to become of you?
I don't know
Master Mark says he
wants me to stay on,
but they ain't sorted
out the money side yet.
I hope you do.
Flambards will become a
complete ruin if you don't.
Have you had any news from Dick?
Not a word.
Not a blessed old word.
I suppose you'll be thinking
about marriage now?
Yes, soon I hope.
You're not yet 21.
Since Uncle Russell
was guardian...
The guardianship
passes automatically to me.
You won't try to stop us?
That depends, doesn't it?
On what?
On what your young genius can
provide. He's got nothing of this.
He's got much more than this.
He's very clever and he's building...
You'd better tell him I wish to see him.
And he can tell me himself.
I'm only doing what your
mother would have done.
Goodbye, my dear.
Look after yourself.
Please, Aunt Grace.
You won't try to stop us?
Nothing improves, does it?
I've stopped looking.
Bit of ceiling, looks as if it's going
to come crashing down in a minute.
Don't remind me. I don't
want to know about it.
Now, where's that young William?
Now, he should have been here today.
I know.
They were all saying so.
Well, he should.
Some things are expected.
Playing with his toys,
I shouldn't wonder.
Aeroplanes aren't toys.
Excuse me.
Are you winning?
Slowly.
I suppose I could help.
Yes.
By keeping out of the way.
Thank you for
sticking up for William.
I was only telling the truth.
Thank you for
telling the truth.
Is it worth it?
Is what worth it?
William's famous aeroplane.
Is it worth all the effort?
Come and see it for yourself.
They all look the same to me.
But I might.
I enjoy a good laugh.
Hm.
I wish I was famous.
Don't you, Christina?
You are.
You're Sandy's...
Almost fiance?
It's like being Prince Consort.
Queen Consort.
Is it?
if you girls aren't doing anything too
important, I wonder if you wouldn't mind
lending a hand?
I think it's probably different
than being Prince Consort.
Mechanics labourer.
Hm.
Right.
Leave her there.
Stand back, everybody.
Christina.
She is beautiful.
Isn't she?
I think we should open a
bottle of Champagne on her.
Yes.
Well, perhaps not.
Right, gentlemen.
Right, William.
Here we go.
Switch is on, Joe.
Set.
Something sounds
a bit wrong to me.
Yes.
I could feel the
compression going.
I heard it.
It's awful when your
compression goes, isn't it?
It's not funny.
Gasket's blown.
Ah,
Can you make another, Joe?
Ran out of stuff.
There's plenty in
the Bleriot hanger.
It's the wrong thickness.
Well...
Someone had better
go to the factory.
I've got to teach some
idiot aristocrat to fly.
I've got to strip the Blackburn
down. Get it ready by tomorrow.
Oh, damn.
I'll go.
It'll take hours.
I may be a circus pilot,
but I still want to see this
magnificent aircraft flying.
Well, I'll go into town with you. Might
even get one of those oily love letters.
Is it serious?
Mr. Wilson is coming from Brooklyn's
on Friday to watch a full scale
test flight and I can't
even get it off the ground.
I'm sure Mr. Wilson
will think it is wonderful.
It's not just Mr. Wilson who
has to think it's wonderful.
And how is the famous aeroplane?
It's progressing.
One or two problems,
but we'll soon solve them.
When does the man come to, um,
watch the test flight? Is that the phrase?
Tomorrow
And you're confident he'll give you
a marvellous job with good money?
Yes.
Well, you're going to need to pay
for that carpet you're wearing out.
I'm sorry.
Sit down.
Save yourself some pennies.
How can you be so confident
that you'll get the job you want?
The man at Brooklyn saw
my designs and said "Build it"
and I have built it.
He might have been joking.
Yes, I think he
probably was joking.
And he said that
just to get rid of you.
I'm sure he did.
But I've done it.
And tomorrow he's sending along
his chief designer to see what I've done.
But are you sure
he'll offer you a job?
I'm sure he will.
The world needs aeroplanes
and people who design aeroplanes.
That means me.
You are the George
Stevenson of the 20th century.
I didn't say that.
You have as much
energy as a steam engine.
But what concerns me is the
future Mrs George Stevens.
I can look after Christina.
Only if you've got a good job.
So all I need is a telegram
telling me you've got one.
And you won't make
us wait until she's 21?
I'd have to go to some
court in London and
tell some judge or other
to do something legal.
Heaven knows what sort of a nonsensical
tangle it would all be. Very silly.
What I want is to put some
brakes on your flying machine.
What's so amusing about that?
Well, aeroplanes
don't have brakes.
Who'd better put your
mind to that, Mr Stevens?
Very good.
As soon as I get back.
I've got something
for you and Christina.
Eureka.
I found the magic gasket.
Put it in a safe place.
I'll be ready for it
in about five minutes.
Right.
Is William back yet?
No.
Said not to expect him to
until later on...people to see.
I wonder what that means.
No idea. Can I help?
- No, I..
I just want him to take
a look at the Bleriot.
There's a warp
wire giving trouble.
Developing a mind of its own.
Should I come?
No, it can wait.
This is the one that matters.
Any chance of you helping me?
If I'm allowed.
Of course.
She told me off about the funeral.
I did warn you.
But we reached an understanding.
I get the job,
I get the girl.
And tomorrow you'll get
the job from Mr. Wilson
Provided I get the
Dermot off the ground.
You going down that tonight?
Naturally.
Can I come and help?
I finish in 20 minutes.
You could set the job back
a whole week if you come.
You don't deserve me.
You sure you don't mind helping? I mean,
if you've got problems with the Bleriot.
I've already said
I may be a circus pilot,
but I know a real aeroplane when I see one.
This one, Joe.
Let's get moving.
I was going to
give you a present.
I may still be
prepared to accept it.
Do you know what this is?
I can make an intelligent guess.
An engagement ring?
It's more than that.
Your mother's engagement ring?
She told you?
There.
Will you marry me?
I shouldn't be at all surprised.
Oh, what a lovely picture.
You're only jealous.
That's quite true, actually.
Oh, Christina.
It's beautiful.
It was my mother's.
Oh, it's lovely.
Oh, no, no
She wouldn't hear
of a registry office.
That's wonderful.
That way we both
get new dresses.
What about the costs?
She says she's got
a little money put by.
She's probably been saving.
She's certainly quite a
character, your Aunt Grace.
Hmm
I'm going to pay her
back the minute I'm 21.
I doubt if she'd accept it.
Oh, I'm so excited.
Anyone would think
you were getting married.
Oh, and is the big, handsome brother
of yours to be best man, William?
Another man to flirt with?
Oh, you're in... You're in...
What's the word?
Incomprehensible?
- She is that...in...
Inconstant?
And that too...William, what's
the word I'm thinking of? In...
Incorrigible.
Incorrigible!
Oh, well, I don't know what
big words like that mean.
Have you switched it on?
Oh.
Anyway, I have a
disappointment for you, Dorothy.
Sandy's going to be my best man.
Oh, you're not going to fall out
with your family, again, are you?
You can't do that, William.
Mark won't want anything
to do with our wedding.
That's absolutely ridiculous.
In any case, Mark can't be this man because
he's got a very important job to do.
What?
He's the only one who
can give Christina away.
It's nice being encorrigible,
even if I don't know what it means.
Incorrigible.
Oh,
Yes.
These wires need tightening.
Need tightening?
And it needs
another coat of dope.
Another coat of dope?
Yes.
Oh
You're going to marry a bigamist.
Who?
William...Just look at him.
He's married already
What's this?
Ah...well, um...
It sort of came undone.
You mean you couldn't
put it back together again.
Good luck.
Yes.
I said "good luck"
Yes.
Are you going to wish me luck?
Yes. Good luck.
That was magnificent.
Smooth and powerful.
The acceleration at
take off was amazing.
Yes, I was very
pleased about that.
Any problems?
I think she's a pound
or two light in the tail.
Can you find anything
suitable to put in for now, Joe?
I've got just the thing.
What?
My share of the takings
from Percy Adams.
Great big bag of two
shilling pieces. Shall I get it?
Why not?
You will have the only
plane with a silver lining.
I'd be satisfied with
that for the first day.
Not William
And speaking as one who
has flown the English Channel
in both directions.
Neither would I.
Ah-hah.
And what did you say
to Monsieur Bleriot?
Oh, I wish it was over.
What?
Look.
Oh, is that him?
Mr Wilson.
I think it must be
Just the thing.
Is it heavy enough?
He's got a kind face.
Williams says
he's hard as nails.
You know that chap from
Brooklyn's has just arrived.
Mr Wilson? Yes, I can see him.
Anyway, good luck.
Oh, don't start all that again.
Please yourself.
Just take care of my money.
Free to watch?
Mark, what are you doing here?
You invited me.
Came for a good
laugh, remember?
Actually, it's
all rather serious.
Oh, something special going on?
Not really.
Just my whole
married life at stake.
Oh, is that all?
Quiet.
He's done it!...Oh, Christina!
Oh!
Thank you.
I enjoyed that.
So I told him I didn't
expect to be made
Managing Director for at
least another 18 months.
Oh, what cheek!
You've done it now.
I don't know how you dared.
He just laughed. Anyway,
I've got the designing job.
And that's what matters.
There's only one word to
describe you: Encorrigible.
Well, that makes two of us.
Excuse me.
Yes.
Did you send a
telegram to Aunt Grace?
Of course.
Well done, little brother.
Thank you, Mark.
Let's go and celebrate.
What the devil's going on
here? Is nobody doing any work?
Your Bleriot's got to be tested.
Mr. Dickinson's got his lesson in 10 minutes.
Now get moving, all of you.
Sorry.
Of course, I realise that
Bleriot is an inferior aeroplane
compared with yours, William.
But one of you
still want to test it?
I'll do it.
Come on, I'll do it.
Why don't you toss a
coin? It would be quicker.
All right.
Heads.
Excuse me.
Right.
Invitation list.
Invitation list? The bands
haven't been read yet.
Can't start too early.
You can put me down.
Just family.
Now, Aunt Grace...
Mark Russell.
You need more than that.
It's my wedding.
M-A-R-K.
And Aunt Grace is paying for it.
She wouldn't want a Thomas Haney Affair.
Don't you ever listen?
Hardly ever.
She's not rich.
Oh, but she'll have to...
What's happening?
The Bleriot. Fire on the deck.
Get the tankers out-quickly.
It's no use.
Who is it?
Sandy.
Oh, no.
No.
Oh.
I thought it was you.
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