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English Subtitle Text for "Eran Trece"

In 1931, Fox Films released "Eran Trece" ("There Were
Thirteen"), a Spanish-language version of "Charlie Chan Carries On," which the studio had produced earlier the same year.
While the original Charlie Chan movie starred Warner Oland and featured an English-speaking cast, the second version used
Spanish actors and actresses, and starred Manuel Arbo as the Chinese detective.
Today, sadly, "Charlie Chan Carries On" is considered
"lost." However, we are most fortunate to have its Spanish cousin, "Eran Trece," available to us. Production stills
from "Charlie Chan Carries On" reveal that at least some of the same sets were used in the production of this movie,
along with the same stock footage for travel and location sequences. With a number of small alterations, the script
used was very much the same. (Please note: The "final shooting script" for "Charlie Chan Carries On" can be found
here, at the Charlie Chan Family Home.) Material that was added to "Eran Trece" gave this picture a running
time ten minutes longer, 79 versus 69 minutes, than its venerable predessessor.
The cast list that follows reveals that some of the names of characters were
changed from those of "Charlie Chan Carries On." Some deviations are a mere matter of spelling, while in a few instances,
the names were changed entirely. In these cases, the reason was undoubtedly one of Spanish pronunciation and understanding.
In the subtitle text that follows, the new names are used, but in some cases, the spelling was "re-Anglicized" for an English-speaking
audience.
The purpose of presenting the following subtitle text for "Eran Trece" is to
allow fans of Charlie Chan to follow "same" while watching this movie. Hopefully, this will allow our honored visitors
to view this wonderful film and valuable piece of Chan lore with a new perspective. It is humbly suggested that those
so desiring to use this text as an aid to watching "Eran Trece" copy the text and then print it out for easier, more
practical access. (If assistance is needed, please feel free to contact us through our email mailbox on our front,
Entrance page.)
And finally, a profound "Gracias, muchicimas" to Adrian Jimenez, whose assistance
was vital to this project. Without his help and vast patience, this translation would not have been possible.
CAST:
Manuel Arbo: Charlie Chan
Rafael Luis Calvo: Inspector Duff
Ana Maria Custodio: Elen Potter (Ellen Potter)
Juan Torena: Dick Kennaway
Julio Villareal: Dr. Lofton
Raul Roulien: Max Minchin
Blanca de Castejon: Peggy Minchin
Martin Garralaga: John Ross
Carmen Rodriguez: Senora Rockwel (Mrs. Rockwell)
Antonio Vidal: Paul Nelson
Jose Nieto: Senor Kin (Mr. Keane)
Ralph Navarro: Inspector Gardner
Lia Tora: Sybil Conway
Carlos Diaz de Mendoza: Walter Decker
ERAN
TRECE
("There Were
Thirteen")
SUPERIMPOSED TITLE:
"Scotland Yard."
(Inspector Duff's office
- Scotland Yard)
INSPECTOR DUFF
(to First Policeman): You'll receive further instructions in Liverpool.
INSPECTOR DUFF
(to Second Policeman): Telephone to get more details.
INSPECTOR GARDNER: Good
morning, Duff.
DUFF: Good
morning, Gardner. Happy to see you. You want a little laugh?
GARDNER: What's
happening?
DUFF: Just
had a letter from our old Chinese friend, Charlie Chan.
GARDNER: Where
is he? Still in Honolulu?
DUFF: Yes.
He's inspector of detectives now. And he sends a photograph of what he calls his "Heavenly Blessings."
GARDNER: Great
Scott! This isn't a picture of a family It's a picture of a football team!
INSERT (inscription
on the back of the photo): "The fox never sees the end of its own tail. Charlie Chan"
GARDNER: Pity
he's wasted in a place like Honolulu, isn't it?
DUFF: I
don't know about him, but I long to get away from these four walls. Can't be any worse than here. I wish something
would happen - I need action!
GARDNER: Leave well enough alone. That's why we are as we are. You remember
what Chan used to say about that, don't you?
DUFF: What?
GARDNER: "Always
very hard winter when honorable cheese runs after mouse."
DUFF (answering
telephone): Hello? Yes. Inspector Duff, speaking. What? Party of American tourists
on a trip around the world? What about it? Murdered? What's his name? Where was he murdered? I'll come at once!
DUFF (to Gardner): Wealthy
American named Louis Potter, Murdered at Broome's Hotel. Let's go!
GARDNER: Yes!
(At Broome's Hotel)
GARDNER (to
Ellen Potter): Please, Miss, you'd better go - This is Inspector Duff from Scotland Yard.
ELLEN POTTER: He
was so good - so kind to everyone. How could anyone do it?
DUFF: I
should like to speak to you later, Miss.
ELLEN: Very
well.
GARDNER: That's
his granddaughter.
DUFF: Number
3260. Deitrich Company, Stockton, California. Good old boy. Tried to help us. Tore off the end of the assailant's
watch chain, and kept it for us.
GARDNER: That's
something.
DUFF (to fingerprint
expert): Have you taken fingerprints from this strap?
FINGERPRINT EXPERT: Yes,
sir.
DUFF: Strangled
with this.
DUFF (noting
hearing aid): Have you checked this?
FINGERPRINT EXPERT: No
sir, not yet.
GARDNER: Look
what I found at the head of the bed.
DUFF: Stones.
GARDNER: What
do you make of it?
DUFF: A
harmless old man - Very deaf, strangled to death - Yet no evidence of any struggle.
KENT: Pardon
me, Inspector. Dr. Lofton, conductor of the tour. This is Inspector Duff of Scotland Yard.
DR. LOFTON: I'm
not precisely a conductor. For fifteen years, I have been managing director of Lofton's round-the-world tours.
DUFF: Ah?
LOFTON: This
year I have a comparatively small group - Thirteen - At least there were thirteen last night.
DUFF: Was
there any trouble on the tour before last night? Anything that seemed like enmity?
LOFTON: Oh
no! NO! The members of the party scarcely know one another as yet.
DUFF: Good. But
you are sure?
LOFTON: Ah,
no. No, no, no, NO! It's inadmissible that one of my clients killed Louis Potter! It's absurd! Some sneak thief
- Some hotel servant - There's no need for suspicion.
DUFF: Why
do you wish me to think that?
LOFTON: Inspector,
this is a very serious situation to me - My reputation - Everything is liable to be ruined by this.
DUFF: I
understand. Have you ever noted this strap on the luggage of any of your guests?
LOFTON: No.
This is odd! I have an identical strap on one of my bags.
DUFF: Will
you get it, please?
LOFTON: Gladly,
Inspector.
DUFF: Tell
me, have you assembled the members of your party in the drawing room?
LOFTON: Some
of them are out, but I've gotten most of them together.
DUFF: Thank
you, Dr. Lofton.
DUFF (to Kent): Who
occupies the room next to this?
KENT: Mr.
Decker - one of the tourists.
DUFF: Can
you open it?
KENT: Yes,
sir.
(Inside Decker's room)
DUFF (to Decker who
enters): Come in, Mr. Decker. Sit down. You know what's happened, of course? You
heard no cry - no struggle during the night in the next room?
DECKER: Nothing. I
was sound asleep when the murder was committed.
DUFF: Oh,
you know when it occurred, then?
DECKER: No,
of course not. I merely assume I must have been asleep.
DUFF: I
seem to have heard your name somewhere.
DECKER: Possibly. I'm
a theatrical manager. Perhaps you've also heard of my wife - Sybil Conway.
DUFF: She's
traveling with you?
DECKER: No. We
had an estrangement about two months ago. She's at San Remo on the Riviera. Our tour touches there, and I hope to
persuade her to join me. This affair has been a great shock. You see, I recently had a nervous breakdown.
DUFF: Rather
odd, isn't it, Mr. Decker, that a man who has just had a nervous breakdown - should be such a - sound sleeper?
DECKER: No,
no. I never have insomnia.
DUFF: Will
you wait for me below, please?
(Back in Potter's room)
DUFF (to Gardner):
Anything new?
GARDNER:
Not yet.
LOFTON:
Pardon me, Inspector.
My strap is gone!
DUFF:
Really?
Then perhaps this is yours?
LOFTON:
I don't know -
Yes, I think it is.
DUFF:
We'll go into the matter of the strap, later.
Will you wait downstairs, please?
DUFF (to Gardner):
I have an idea...
KENT:
This is our night watchman.
He has something to say.
NIGHT WATCHMAN:
It's this way, Inspector.
Last night, while I was on my rounds at two o'clock,
I saw a gentleman standing in front of room 27.
When he heard me he said,
"I'm on the wrong floor - My room is below."
DUFF:
You saw his face?
NIGHT WATCHMAN:
Yes, sir. Yes.
I can identify him if he's still about.
DUFF:
Is there more?
NIGHT WATCHMAN:
Yes, sir, there's more.
Around four o'clock in the hallway,
someone in the dark hit me, knocking me down.
DUFF:
The same man?
NIGHT WATCHMAN:
I can't say, sir.
As I fell, my torch showed a gray suit.
I seized the pocket of the coat and heard the cloth tear.
Then he hit me again -
and when I came to, he was gone.
DUFF:
Good.
Thank you very much.
Wait downstairs.
NIGHT WATCHMAN:
Yes, sir.
DUFF (to Gardner):
Look for a gray coat with a torn pocket -
or the other end of this chain.
GARDNER:
This may interest you.
DUFF:
What?
GARDNER:
Did you know there's a retired Chicago racketeer in this party?
DUFF:
Really?
GARDNER:
Yes -
Man named Max Minchin -
The New York police have asked us to keep a kindly eye on him.
DUFF:
Thank you, Gardner -
We shall.
(In the lounge)
MAX MINCHIN: Good.
The first thing to remember, if anybody done it - don't say nothin' until you seen a lawyer.
PEGGY MINCHIN: Come
on, Maxie - it's no use nursing a grouch. Nobody's accusin' you.
MAX: Patrol
your own beat, I'm takin' no info from a skirt!
MRS. ROCKWELL: What
language is he speaking?
(Lobby at Broome's Hotel)
KENT (to Mr.
Nielson): Mr. Nielson.
Inspector Duff of Scotland Yard.
KENT (to Duff): Mr.
Nielson is a criminal lawyer from New York.
DUFF: How
do you do?
MR. NIELSON: What
is this about murder?
DUFF: Step
inside, Mr. Nielson. You will know all the details in a moment.
NIELSON: Very
well.
DICK KENNAWAY (helping
Nielson who passed out): Amyl nitrate. It will bring him around in a moment.
DUFF: You
are Mr. Nielson's traveling companion?
DICK: Yes. I'm
Dick Kennaway. Mr. Nielson is subject to this sort of thing. That's why he employed me to come with him.
KENT: You
can take him to that room.
DUFF: Let
me know when he's fully recovered.
DUFF (to Martin): Are
you Martin?
MARTIN: Yes,
sir.
DUFF: You
discovered the crime this morning?
MARTIN: Yes,
sir.
DUFF: Tell
me about it.
MARTIN: I
awoke Mr. Potter every morning, sir. He was very deaf and it took a bit of doing.
DUFF: And
this morning?
MARTIN: I
knocked on his door many times bit there was no answer.
DUFF: What
then?
MARTIN: I
got the housekeeper's key, and entered the room. Then I notified the management at once, And that's all I can tell you,
Inspector.
DUFF: Thank
you very much.
(In smoking room)
CAPTAIN KEANE: I
am Captain Ronald Keane.
DUFF: Military
man?
KEANE: Why -
yes.
MRS. ROCKWELL Captain
Keane told me that he was in the British Army and has seen service in India and South Africa.
DUFF: Yes? Were
you in the British Army?
KEANE: Well -
no - not precisely. I was just - well - romancing a bit. You see -
DUFF: What
was your regiment, Captain?
KEANE: Well,
I was not in any regiment - the title is really honorary.
MRS. LUCE: Then,
it isn't true about the tombs at Baroda - or about the 40 elephants? Oh, too bad!
DUFF: Then,
just what is your real business?
KEANE: None
at present - I'm retired.
DUFF: What
were you?
KEANE: Engineer. Not
really an engineer - I was, but a long time ago. Actually, I run a rental business.
DUFF: Been
out of the hotel this morning?
KEANE: Yes,
to the post office to cash a check.
DUFF (to Mrs.
Rockwell): And you, Madame?
MRS. ROCKWELL: I
also run a rental business.
DUFF: Shall
we say - tourist?
MRS. ROCKWELL: Yes,
sir, that's correct. This is my fourth trip around the world. I've been to Tierra Del Fuego, and -
DUFF: You
occupy room 27, correct? Did you hear anything last night?
MRS. ROCKWELL: No,
not last night - but - there was quite a row the night before.
MRS. ROCKWELL (looking
at Dr. Lofton): Perhaps Dr. Lofton can give you more details.
DUFF: Just
what occurred the night before last, Dr. Lofton?
LOFTON: Oh...nothing...nothing. I
was in Mr. Potter's room. He objected to several members of the party. Their presence upset him. I was merely trying
to explain my position.
DUFF (to John
Ross): Your name, sir?
JOHN ROSS: John
Ross. Lumber exporter from Tacoma, Washington.
DUFF: Do
you know anything about this crime?
ROSS: Absolutely
nothing.
DUFF: Did
you know Mr. Potter?
ROSS: Yes -
an absolute gentleman. Got to know him pretty well. I liked him a lot.
DUFF: Have
you been out of the hotel this morning?
ROSS: Yes. I
went out for a walk.
DICK (to Duff): Pardon
me, Inspector. Mr. Nielson has recovered.
DUFF (to assembled
group): You will kindly wait here a moment.
(In coffee room)
DUFF (to Martin): Ask
the night watchman to step in the lounge. I'll be there in a moment.
MARTIN: Yes,
sir.
DUFF (to Nielson): Feeling
better, Mr. Nielson?
NIELSON: Yes,
yes. Much better, thank you. A bit too much excitement, I fear. But, tell me about this murder - I still don't
know who was killed.
DUFF: Mr.
Louis Potter. You occupy room number 30, near the victim's room, right? What time did you retire?
DICK: I
think it was about twelve. You see, I read to Mr. Potter every night before he goes to sleep.
DUFF: Mr.
Nielson, what was it you saw in the lounge that brought on this attack?
NIELSON: Nothing! The
attacks come unexpectedly.
DUFF: Did
you see anyone in the lounge?
NIELSON: NO!
DUFF: Did
you see a face?
NIELSON: I
told you - NO!
DICK: Please,
Inspector - Mr. Nielson is ill!
DUFF: I'm
sorry. I apologize.
DUFF (to Nielson): Nevertheless,
Mr. Nielson - I intend to find out what it was that shocked a retired criminal lawyer into a heart attack.
(In smoking room)
NIGHT WATCHMAN:
This
one!
KEANE: What
do you mean?
NIGHT WATCHMAN: I
mean its you I met on my two o'clock round, last night.
DUFF: Is
it true?
KEANE: Yes,
sir. I was up there. You see, I couldn't sleep and wished to borrow a book from Mr. Nielson.
DUFF: Its
pretty old - that wanting-to-read-a-book stuff. Why did you say you made a mistake and were on the wrong floor?
KEANE: Why,
I just said the first thing that came into my mind.
DUFF: Rather
a habit with you, isn't it?
DUFF (to Decker): One
more question, Mr. Decker - Do these stones mean anything to you?
DECKER: This
is the first time I've seen them.
DUFF (to Max): You
are - Mr. Minchin?
MAX: Yeah. What
about it?
PEGGY: Dearie,
answer the man's question politely.
MAX: What
for? He's a cop, ain't he? I should help him!
DUFF: One
moment, please, Mr. Minchin. Allow me to warn you -
MAX (to Duff): I
know - that anything I say will be used against me. I heard that one before.
PEGGY: Maxie!
Please!
MAX: All
right.
MAX (to Duff): What
do you want to know?
DUFF: Where
are you from?
MAX: From
Chicago. What of it?
DUFF: Nothing. I'll
not annoy you with more questions, Mr. Minchin. We're already supplied with good information about you.
BENBOW: Pleased
to meet you, Inspector! This will be something to talk about when we get back! Murder - Mystery - Police - Scotland
Yard - If Dr. Lofton advertised all this - he could charge a lot more for the tour! Money can't buy this! Meet
the missus!
DUFF: How
do you do?
MRS. BENBOW: Very
well, and you?
BENBOW: I
have to go out and take some pictures of the most famous places. The world without pictures is a lost world - don't
you think? Anything we can do to help you, Inspector?
DUFF: Do
you know anything about this crime?
BENBOW: If
you mean - did my wife and I kill Mr. Potter - we certainly didn't! Mr. Potter was a soda producer and I
make bottle caps. Can you imagine a bottle cap manufacturer killing off one of his best customers?
DUFF: Hardly. Ever
seen this before?
BENBOW: This
key? No. Never. Similar ones, yes. All keys are alike - One has a notch here - another here - another
here - another here - Some with a hole - What do you know!
DUFF: Do
you know who this belongs to?
BENBOW: No. This
one was made in Stockton, California - just two doors down from my house! Curious!
DUFF: Very
curious. Nothing more. Thank you very much.
DUFF (to others): Ladies
and gentlemen - none of you must leave London without the permission of Scotland Yard.
ELLEN: Mr.
Duff - Is it true - that you think the crime was committed by some member of the party?
DUFF: I
regret to say that I do.
ELLEN: In
that case - I shall cable my mother to come to London, and I shall continue with the tour.
DUFF: Do
you think that is advisable?
ELLEN: I
want to help find out who committed this cowardly murder.
DUFF: And
we, for our part, may need your assistance.
ELLEN: We
have a long way to go. We are traveling together - and one of them may let something slip.
DUFF: Quite
probable, indeed. I have a Chinese friend who always uses proverbs - and he's said: "Only a very sly man can shoot off
a cannon quietly."
DICK: Miss
Potter - I haven't had the opportunity to tell you how sorry I am. If there is anything I may do to help you, please
ask me.
ELLEN: Thank
you, Mr. Kennaway.
(In the lobby)
GARDNER: Not
a trace of the chain or gray coat.
DUFF: I
thought as much - every one of them had been out of the hotel this morning before we got here.
GARDNER: How
many days can we hold them here?
DUFF: I
don't know. We'll have to talk with the Chief.
(At Scotland Yard)
GARDNER: Too
bad we weren't able to hold them. This looks like the end of the case - just another unsolved murder.
DUFF: But
we couldn't hold them. The American Ambassador himself asked me - Where's our proof? What was the motive?
GARDNER: Tonight
they're in Paris - then Nice - San Remo - Italy, Greece, Egypt, India, Singapore - Honolulu - around the world.
DUFF: And
the murderer traveling with them - unknown.
SERGEANT BURKE: Inspector,
the man says he's ready to talk.
DUFF: Bring
him in.
BURKE (opening
door): Let's go.
BURKE (to
Duff): Here he is.
DUFF: Sit
down! Where did you get all that money you've been spending?
MARTIN:
Let me explain.
DUFF:
Don't tell me you were playing the races!
Come on, the truth!
MARTIN:
You won't send me to prison, Inspector?
DUFF:
That depends on you.
Where did you get that hundred pounds?
MARTIN:
Mr. Decker gave it to me.
DUFF:
What for?
MARTIN:
I'll tell you everything, sir.
At ten o'clock that night
I went upstairs with a cablegram for Mr. Potter.
I knocked on his door -
DUFF:
And then what?
MARTIN:
Mr. Decker opened it.
DUFF:
Mr. Decker opened Mr. Potter's door?
MARTIN:
Yes, sir.
I gave him the envelope.
He said: "You'll find Mr. Potter in my room -
We've changed rooms for the night."
DUFF:
And what then?
MARTIN:
I knocked on the door of Mr. Decker's room.
Mr. Potter came to the door
took the cablegram and thanked me.
DUFF:
When were you given the hundred pounds?
MARTIN: At
seven o'clock the next morning, Mr. Decker sent for me - handed me two fifty-pound notes - and made me promise not
to say anything about the exchange of rooms.
DUFF (to Gardner): What
did I tell you? Potter wasn't murdered in his own room. I was right!
GARDNER: Then
it's Decker!
DUFF: We
have him, my boy! I've just time to catch the night boat for Dieppe.
GARDNER: The
party is leaving Paris for the coast tonight.
DUFF: The
group is just twelve hours ahead of me!
GARDNER: Have
a nice trip - and good luck!
DUFF: Thanks,
old chap!
SUPERIMPOSED TITLE: "Nice."
INSERT (of text
of letter):
"Mrs Rockwell: I would greatly appreciate
that, in case something happens to me, contact my wife, Sybil Conway, who is in San Remo at the Palace Hotel. Greatly
appreciated, Walter Decker"
(In the hotel at Nice)
LOFTON: We've
been expecting you, Inspector - but not this soon.
DUFF: You've
been waiting for me?
LOFTON: Yes. Decker
killed himself last night in the garden of this hotel.
MRS. ROCKWELL: No,
I'm certain it wasn't suicide - You're needed here, Inspector! This is another murder!
DUFF: You
think so?
MRS. ROCKWELL: Absolutely. Mr.
Decker expected something to happen - He tried to leave a letter with me. I suggested that Dr. Lofton was the proper
person to give it to - but he insisted that Dr. Lofton was decidedly not the proper person.
LOFTON: I
telephoned Mrs. Decker this morning - When she heard the news I believe she fainted.
DUFF (to Gendarme): I'm
Inspector Duff of Scotland Yard. Are you going to hold the tourist party?
GENDARME: It's
not possible - We have no evidence against anyone.
DUFF: I
see. I will help you in any way I can.
GENDARME: Much
appreciated, Inspector.
DUFF: It's
nothing.
(In hotel hallway)
MAX (to Peggy): This
place is swarmin' with bulls!
PEGGY: Uh-huh.
MAX: What
d'ya do? When I see all these cops - it brings back memories -
PEGGY: Uh-huh. We
call that nostalgia.
MAX: What?
PEGGY: NOS-TAL-GIA.
DUFF (on phone
in telephone booth): It was not suicide, Mrs. Decker - Your husband was murdered. What? You
know who murdered him? He's with the party? What is his name? There's no one with that name. What name is he using
now? You don't know... That's all right. I'll be at your hotel at eight this evening with the Lofton party.
DUFF (to Dr.
Lofton): Doctor - You may leave for San Remo this afternoon as
you had planned.
LOFTON: Perfect! I
greatly appreciate this, Inspector!
(At Palace Hotel, San Remo)
DUFF (to Sybil
Conway): You say the man who killed Decker is named Jim Maynard?
SYBIL: Yes.
DUFF: Do
you know why he killed him?
SYBIL: Yes. I
was married to Jim Maynard - but we were unhappy. Then I met Walter Decker - and we ran away. Maynard swore he
would kill us both.
DUFF (emptying
stones from bag): Ever see these before?
SYBIL: No
- but I know what they mean. When we ran away, I took two bags of diamonds with us - But they weren't Maynard's
- He had stolen them, too.
DUFF: All
this in South Africa?
SYBIL: Yes.
DUFF: Are
you sure that you will be able to recognize Jim Maynard when you see him?
SYBIL: Naturally.
DUFF: Very
well. Come with me. When everyone is in the dining room - point him out to me.
SYBIL: Perfect.
DUFF: Shall
we go?
SYBIL: Yes.
(As elevator door opens)
DUFF (to Hotel
Detective): Get that bag!
DICK (knocking
at Neilson's door): Mr. Nielson! Mr. Nielson! Are you there?
KEANE: What's
happened?
DICK: Mr.
Nielson was here a moment ago. Did you see him?
KEANE: No.
DICK: Mr.
Nielson! Mr. Neilson!
ELLEN (to
Duff and others with the body): Shall I call a Doctor?
DUFF: Too
late. The woman is dead.
(At train station platform
at San Remo)
DUFF: You
won't forget to write the letters you promised me?
ELLEN: Certainly
not. Will you be joining us again, Inspector?
DUFF: Probably. I'm
going to America. Meanwhile, if anything important comes up - cable me at Scotland Yard.
ELLEN: I
know something will - I feel we have only to wait -
DUFF: Waiting
won't do - We've got to work. As my Chinese friend expresses it: "Sitting man must hold mouth open very long time
- before roast goose flies in."
CONDUCTOR'S VOICE: All
aboard!
ELLEN: Goodbye,
Inspector.
DUFF: Goodbye,
Miss Potter. Have a nice trip.
ELLEN:
Thank you very much.
MRS. ROCKWELL: Hopefully
we won't be seeing you again, will we?
DUFF: I
don't know, Madame.
MRS. ROCKWELL: Every
time I see you - something bad happens. The world will be a happier place - if you don't bring any more bad news.
DUFF: I
don't bring the fatalities - I only follow them.
CONDUCTOR'S VOICE: All
aboard!
MAX: I
hope I never see you again, Inspector!
CONDUCTOR'S VOICE: All
aboard!
CONDUCTOR'S VOICE: All
aboard!
BENBOW (pointing
movie camera at Duff): Just a moment! Hold it! Inspector
Duff saying good-bye to his "clients" at the station!
CONDUCTOR'S VOICE: All
aboard!
BENBOW: That's
it! Thank you!
CONDUCTOR: Let's
go!
BENBOW: Sorry! My
mistake!
(Train pulls away from station)
(Shots of exotic locations)
(Hong Kong scenes and street
musicians)
(In front of Hong Kong fruit
stand)
PEGGY:
What d'ya like more - this place or Rome?
MAX:
Rome? Which was Rome?
PEGGY: Where
that big cathedral was.
MAX: Uh-huh.
I liked that place where those big things - stuck outta the ground - like this.
PEGGY: You
mean the pyramids, Max!
MAX: And
also that place where we were on June 22 - your birthday.
PEGGY: My
birthday?
MAX: Uh-huh.
PEGGY: When
you gave me that rhinestone necklace?
MAX: That's
right.
PEGGY: Wait! June
22... Venice.
MAX: That's
right - Venice - Pretty, right!
PEGGY: Yes,
but we were unlucky there! We showed up when it was flooded!
MAX: Yeah,
rotten timing!
(A Hong Kong street with
Benbow filming)
BENBOW: That's
it! Thank you very much, Mrs, Rockwell! That makes forty-five different locations.
MRS. ROCKWELL: Thank
you very much. And your wife?
BENBOW: She's
upset because I took a lot of pictures of Greek ruins - but none of her! This one we're going to call - "Mrs. Rockwell
in a Chinese street with an insistent Mr. Kennaway who is looking for his girlfriend."
MRS. ROCKWELL: Uh-huh -
He's got me!
BENBOW: See
you later. I'm going to find a Chinaman to film. I hope he doesn't charge me two hundred dollars!
MRS. ROCKWELL: He's
right! I'm just taking up your time. You must have something more interesting to do!
DICK: Please
don't talk about Miss Potter again.
MRS. ROCKWELL: Oh,
I'm sorry - You were together so much, I thought -
DICK: Yes.
So does everyone else, and you too -
MRS. ROCKWELL: No,
no - I don't believe anything.
DICK: One
can't be nice to a rich girl without everyone thinking -
MRS. ROCKWELL: Who
cares what people say! What she thinks is what matters, isn't it?
DICK: Probably
she thinks so, too. She's deliberately avoiding me. Money - it's always money! It's a curse, don't you agree?
MRS. ROCKWELL: Yes,
it's a curse when it isn't yours!
DICK: Please
excuse me - I have to go.
MRS. ROCKWELL: Oh!
I thought you said she was avoiding you.
DICK: Yes.
It's sort of a mutual agreement. See you later, Mrs. Rockwell.
MRS. ROCKWELL
(to Ellen): I was just talking about you with a very charming young man who doesn't
quite know what's the matter with himself.
ELLEN: He
knows very well what's the matter with himself - and he's proud of it.
MRS. ROCKWELL: Don't
you think he's hiding his feelings for you out of pride? He thinks he can't court you because you're a wealthy girl.
ELLEN: Do
you think that's what's happening?
MRS. ROCKWELL: No
doubt about it! Where are you going?
ELLEN: I'm
going to find him and have a talk.
MRS. ROCKWELL: Wonderful,
my child! I wish I were you. Oh, when I was with Robert - - Maurice - And the blond one - Eight years
ago - And more - I forget their names -
(In the Chinese shop)
PEGGY: Look!
It's perfect! Perfect! I was dreaming about this! I got it - and I'm going to keep it! What are you gonna
to do about it? Just pay for it - dear.
MAX: Sure!
Sure! Buy a truckload of junk you don't even know what to do with. And how are you going to carry that thing around
the world?
ELLEN (to
Peggy): What did you get, Mrs. Minchin?
PEGGY: A
reading lamp.
MAX: Yeah -
a readin' lamp! Next thing you know, she'll wanna buy a book to go with it!
PEGGY: No.
We won't either have to buy a book to go with it - 'cause I got a book at home! A friend left a beautiful
book there. Now - we'll use a red light and a green one.
MAX: For
pedestrians!
PEGGY (to
Ellen at door): Merci!
ELLEN (to
Dick): Mr. Kennaway!
DICK: Oh,
excuse me! I didn't know you were here. If I knew, I wouldn't have come.
ELLEN: Why?
DICK: I
thought - perhaps - my presence might annoy you.
ELLEN: We're
going to miss this old war when the trip is over, aren't we?
DICK: Go
on! You'll find another enemy!
ELLEN: Good -
but, for now, isn't it better to remember how things were at the beginning? On this tour we're forced to see each
other all the time - Let's hide our true feelings and pretend to be friends. Is that agreed?
DICK: Agreed!
ELLEN: Okay?
Nothing more to say?
ELLEN (to
shopkeeper): How much is this?
SHOPKEEPER: This?
Two hundred and eighty dollars.
ELLEN (to
Dick): Beautiful, isn't it?
DICK: Yes.
(In the street)
ELLEN (to
Chinese man): Jim Maynard? The name of the man who killed my grandfather! Which one
is Jim Maynard? Which one? Which one?
ELLEN (to
group of men walking): Jim Maynard!
ELLEN (to
group): The Chinaman in that shop pointed out Jim Maynard! One of you - I know who!
DICK (to Ellen): You
don't realize what you've done!
ELLEN: What?
DICK: Jim
Maynard is in that group - You've put yourself in danger. He thinks you know him, but you don't. We don't know whom
to watch - and you're liable to be next.
ELLEN: Where's
the telegraph office?
DICK: Near
here!
(At Charlie Chan's home in
Honolulu)
CHARLIE CHAN (answering
telephone): Hello?
DUFF: Listen!
I need to speak to Charlie Chan.
CHARLIE CHAN: You
are speaking to him, Inspector Duff.
DUFF: Ah!
You recognized my voice! Yes, I just arrived this morning. Yes. It's always about business. I need
to talk with you.
CHAN: Will
be my pleasure.
DUFF: I'm
leaving from your Chief's office - I'll find you later.
CHAN: Will
await your arrival with great pleasure.
(In car on Honolulu street)
DUFF: When
Miss Potter's cable reached me I was on my way to Tacoma. I changed my plans - Flew to San Francisco and took the
first boat. I'm glad I arrived before anything happened to her.
CHAN: Would
kindly deign to answer a question? When she shouted name of Jim Maynard at Hong Kong - no man looked around - quick?
DUFF: No.
She tried to trick him, but failed. What should she have done, Charlie?
CHAN: Too
late now. Advice after mistake is like medicine after dead man's funeral - too late.
DUFF: Strange
situation, Charlie - that the man who committed that murder has the nerve to remain with the party.
CHAN: Yes.
Only very brave mouse makes nest in cat's ear.
DUFF: "Only
very brave mouse makes nest in cat's ear."
(At Chan's office -
Honolulu Police Department)
CHAN: This
is Chan's most unworthy office. Would deign to sit?
DUFF: What
nice fresh air.
CHAN: Open
window admit breeze from sea. Please sit.
CHAN (opening
box): Cigar?
DUFF: No,
thank you. I'll smoke my pipe.
CHAN: Allow
me. If you wait, will find Chief of Police - for humble conference.
(Duff is shot from window)
(Chan returning to office -
checking Duff)
CHAN (to officer): Telephone
for ambulance and surgeon at once - then ask Chief to come here!
CHIEF (to
Chan): What's happened, Charlie?
CHAN: Shot
in back from bullet entering from window. Poor Inspector Duff. He comes to quiet city of Honolulu in search of murderer. Now
this -
CHIEF: Shot
down in the Honolulu police station! Impertinence!
CHAN: Even
worse than that - Insult! Shot down in very office of Inspector of Detectives. Am laughing stock of world - Very
well, then - Shall sail tonight aboard Prescott.
CHIEF: But
Charlie - you can't do that!
CHAN: Please
omit argument - otherwise resignation effective at once. No time to lose
CHAN (on telephone): 2168. Hello!
This you, John? Honorable father speaking. I sail in half-hour on Prescott. What? Kindly omit surprised
feelings. Pack bag with amazing speed - Tooth brush, other suit, razor. Bring bag with mother to dock. You will
understand - speed is essential.
CHIEF: Listen,
Charlie! This is a very dangerous killer!
CHAN: If
I do not have that man before San Francisco - will retire forever in sack-cloth and ashes.
DUFF: Charlie!
CHAN: Tell
me - did you see face of assailant?
DUFF: Lofton
- Keane - Ross - Benbow - Minchin - Which one is it, Charlie?
CHAN (to Chief): Take
best care - Get to hospital - Send me wireless. If he wakes, tell him Charlie Chan carries on.
(At dock)
CHAN (answering
Mrs. Chan): Events explode suddenly - like firecrackers in face of innocent passerby. Do
not worry.
CHAN (answering
to Mrs. Chan's expressed concern): Yes, dear, do not worry. Will protect self from elements
by staying out of breeze.
CHAN (to son
John): In my absence - you will show honorable mother every deference - and guard family
well.
JOHN: Okay,
Pop. And, say - can I use your bus 'til you come back?
CHAN: Ha!
I foresaw this request. Please treat bus with unusual kindness.
JOHN: Don't
worry!
JOHN (after
Mrs. Chan says good-bye): Good-bye, Pop!
(Aboard ship)
SHIP'S STEWARD
(to Chan): The Captain has sent word to the party asking them to wait for you in the smoking
room. He says he's behind you, Mr. Chan - and he hopes you get your man.
CHAN: With
luck - everything will be all right. Thank you, so much.
STEWARD: You're
welcome.
(In the smoking room)
BENBOW: Still
more questions? For what?
MAX: What
fun! We won't be bored on this trip! What a dirty guy - whoever bumped those people off.
PEGGY: You
don't have to be so insulting, Maxie - It could be one of these people!
CHAN (to group): Please
allow me to wish you good trip. You are surprised to find me here - I also. Yesterday Inspector Duff come to Honolulu
- Paradise of Pacific. History repeat itself. Serpent appears in Paradise - Inspector Duff is in hospital, insultingly
wounded. And so, reluctantly, must force inspeakable presence upon you. Much damage begins with open mouth - I know
- and am sorry - but must ask questions.
NIELSON: Pardon
me, sir - but we are no longer under the jurisdiction of Honolulu authorities.
CHAN: Of
course, if anyone has something to hide - he does not have to answer.
NIELSON: No,
no - not me. I won't allow you to maneuver me into that position. Why do you imagine I have anything to
hide?
CHAN: Man
seldom scratches where he does not itch.
NIELSON: I'm
simply reminding you that there is such a thing as proper legal procedure.
CHAN: Legal
excuse - murderer's best friend. Chan understands - Mr. Nielson and Chan both know law - do we not?
LOFTON: I
don't blame Mr. Neilson! From the start, we've been annoyed by questions from incompetent police officials!
CHAN: Stupidity
humbly acknowledged. But, sometimes dull stone make very sharp knife.
ROSS: Perhaps,
Mr. Chan, it would be advisable to postpone the cross-examination until your suspects are in better humor.
CHAN: Possibly
you are right. Time does not press and talk does not cook rice. Thank you, so much.
MAX: You
seen what happened to Inspector Duff, didn't you? You better get yourself some iron underwear.
CHAN: Chan
understands. Thank you, so much.
(Inside Chan's cabin)
ELLEN (at
Chan's door): Mr. Chan -
CHAN: Come
in. You are frightened - What has happened? Did you see a man on deck?
ELLEN: No,
but someone has been in my stateroom.
CHAN: How
do you know?
ELLEN: I
was away for a moment - When I returned, this was on my dresser. I thought perhaps Mrs. Rockwell had given me a present
- but she knows nothing about it. That's why I've come to you.
CHAN: It
is a warning - "See nothing, hear nothing - say nothing."
(On deck)
WIRELESS OPERATOR: Wireless
for you, Mr. Chan - from Honolulu.
CHAN: From
Honolulu... From injured friend. Thank you, so much.
CHAN (to Ellen): Miss
Potter!
ELLEN: Hello,
Mr. Chan! Do you have some news? CHAN: Yes.
Cable says operation is success. Honorable Inspector Duff doing very well.
ELLEN: I'm
very glad to hear that! Any developments in the case?
CHAN: Not
yet - Patience and a mulberry tree become silk shawl.
(In Lofton's cabin)
LOFTON (to
Chan): I won't submit to this sort of thing! What are you doing in my cabin?
CHAN: Chan
only trying to seize truth with fumbling hands. Will kindly explain this interesting exhibit?
LOFTON: What
does that mean?
CHAN: That
is what I wish to find out. Is it your glove?
LOFTON: No.
Are you pretending you found it here?
CHAN: Pretending -
no. I did find it here. You have never seen it before?
LOFTON: Certainly
not! What do you hope to accomplish with this absurd trick? Do you imagine you can frighten me into confessing something?
CHAN: No -
Chan is only trying to find criminal who committed these crimes and bring him to justice. He who waters the tree
gets the fruit.
(On deck at rail)
KEANE (to
Chan): What do you want?
CHAN: This
- Gray coat - with torn pocket. You should have dispensed of this, long ago.
KEANE: What
do you mean?
CHAN: Watchman
in Broome's Hotel in London - tore right-hand pocket of murderer's suit.
KEANE: I
know he did - I heard it at the inquest. That's why I tried to get rid of this.
CHAN: Yes?
KEANE: Yes! Please
believe me - Someone just tore the pocket of this coat - Someone's trying to put suspicion on me. If this were my
suit, I wouldn't have kept it after London. Do you think I'm a fool?
CHAN: Who
shall say? No one is fool until first act of foolishness. Thank you, so much.
(Inside Nielson's cabin)
CHAN (at window): Good
evening!
DICK: Oh!
Come in, Mr. Chan. I'm just getting ready to go out. The ladies are waiting!
CHAN: May
I wish luck?
DICK: Thank
you.
CHAN (looking
at photograph of Ellen): Oh - Good wife best household furniture.
DICK: If
you mean Miss Potter - there isn't a chance.
CHAN: Yes?
DICK: Look -
there's something I want to show you.
DICK (handing
item to Chan): Miss Potter told me you found one of these beside Inspector Duff - and that
another was put in her stateroom as a warning.
CHAN: Where
did Mr. Nielson buy these?
DICK: That's
what I don't understand. He says he didn't buy them - and has no idea how they got into his room. What do you make
of it?
CHAN: Very
strange.
CHAN (pointing
to label on bag): Look! Touch this!
MARK: How
strange! Feels like a key!
CHAN: It
is key - Duplicate of one found in hand of murdered man in London.
DICK: Who
put that on my bag? Do you think - Can it be possible - that Mr. Nielson - Why don't you ask him to explain?
CHAN: Not
yet. Man should never hurry - except to catch flea. Keep open eye on this - It will be removed before ship reaches
port. Let me know moment it is gone.
MARK: I
will, Mr. Chan.
CHAN: Thank
you, so much.
(On deck)
MAX (to Chan): Hello,
Chinaman! What's cooking?
CHAN: Nothing.
MAX: Looks
like more fog.
CHAN: Yes -
looks like.
MAX: Well,
fog won't stop us
from being in San Francisco in a couple more hours. Have
you nailed your man yet?
CHAN: Nailed -
no. Chan is trying to hunt quail with dead dog.
MAX: Cheer
up - Maybe you'll catch him.
CHAN: Maybe? Every
maybe has wife called Maybe-Not.
MAX: Oh,
that reminds me - The wife and me are throwing a farewell dinner party tonight to celebrate the end of the tour. Ten-dollar
silverware - and there'll be champagne.
CHAN: Chan
doesn't drink.
MAX: Okay -
you can look for the murderer while dancing.
CHAN: Thank
you, so much.
MAX: I'll
tell the wife to catch some more oysters.
ELLEN: Well,
we're almost there, Mr. Chan
CHAN: Sorry
- yes.
ELLEN:
And nothing yet?
CHAN: Suspicion
- yes. Proof - no. I have no evidence to hold anyone in San Francisco. Chan imagine he is very clever man - now
find slight mistake. Big head is only a good place for very large headache. And, how is case of irritating young
man?
ELLEN: Well,
there's still hope. He's just asked to meet him on deck.
CHAN: Opportunity
knocks on door again. What if young man proposes?
ELLEN: Do
you think he will?
CHAN: In
what way should Chan know?
ELLEN: I
wish he would.
CHAN: And
then - what would you do?
ELLEN: I'd
refuse, of course.
CHAN: Chan
does not understand.
ELLEN: Also -
for the sake of my wounded pride.
CHAN: Woman's
heart is like a needle at bottom of sea.
ELLEN: Oh.
I don't think so. If you look in your heart - you will find it. We're not so hard to fathom. He's so nice when
he wants to be.
CHAN: When
he wants to be?
ELLEN: But
he seldom wants to be. Shall I see you at the Minchin's dinner?
CHAN: I
think so.
ELLEN: I'll
see you later.
CHAN: Good-bye.
INSERT (of
Chan's letter): "Dr. Lofton: To save embarrassment I will say nothing to
anyone and will not make arrest until ship docks in San Francisco. Thank you, so much. Charlie Chan."
(On deck)
ELLEN (to
Dick): Are you glad the trip's over?
DICK: Yes.
When I turn Mr. Nielson over to his son tonight - I'm free.
ELLEN: Are
you also glad our quarrel's over?
DICK: Is
it? Perhaps I should have said - I don't like quarreling with you.
ELLEN: That's
better!
DICK: Well
- If I shouldn't see you again -
ELLEN: Yes?
DICK: I
just want to tell you - it's been fun knowing you. You're awfully nice, you know. Pretty soon you'll find a nice
boy who'll make you happy - and marry you.
ELLEN: What
did you say? I couldn't hear anything you said!
DICK: Pretty
soon you'll find a nice boy who'll make you happy - and marry you.
ELLEN: Really? If
you want me to!
DICK: Want
you to what?
ELLEN: Marry
you. Isn't that what you were asking me?
DICK: Oh,
no. I was saying - I supposed you'd marry some nice boy and be happy.
ELLEN: Oh
- I'm sorry.
DICK: But,
look here! If I had asked you - you mean you'd really have said yes?
ELLEN: I
don't know - You never asked me.
DICK: But,
if I do ask you - will you promise to say yes again?
ELLEN: If
I promise to say yes - will you promise to ask me again?
CHAN: So? Sorry
to interrupt bitter quarrel.
ELLEN: Why,
I'm never angry.
CHAN (to Dick): May
I ask great favor?
DICK: Certainly.
What?
CHAN: When
I leave Mr. Minchin's dinner - come quickly after me, please. I need help very much.
DICK: Yes,
of course.
CHAN: Thank
you, so much.
(At the Minchins' dinner
party)
LOFTON: But,
barring these unhappy occurrences - I hope that you have experienced some measure of the enjoyment you all anticipated when
we began this world tour. My deep appreciation to everyone. I thank you. Now, a few words from our host - Mr. Minchin.
MAX: Everyone
- I'm not a thief.
PEGGY: No,
he's no thief - but he can get away with some good impressions!
MAX: I
can't do 'em alone - But I can with help from the wife. We have a tight marriage! To start - I'll
give my impression of - Malevo of Buenos Aires.
MAX (singing): Bad
weeds - bad weeds, were... A carouser had a big heart - For this reason he lost - The illusion that he
was her only love. So, as was true of his grandfather, too - He'll never forget the girl - Who broke his heart.
BENBOW: Just
a moment! Just a moment! Why not sing that song you sang while we played cards the other day?
(Max sings)
PEGGY (during
Max's song): Saints alive!
(Max finishes his song)
KEANE: How
about that "Apache" parody you did the other day?
(Max and Peggy perform an
"Apache" parody)
MAX: I
hope this is a good time for Mr. Keane to say a few words.
KEANE: Everyone
- When I was the Ambassador at St. Petersburg -
ROSS: ...In
conclusion - I admit that the murder of Mr. Potter in that stuffy room in London, was a mysterious occurrence. But,
to me, it seems stranger still to realize that at this moment we are dining with a man who has committed three murders
- and attempted a fourth - who sits here listening to us, and who, within an hour, will walk off this ship
still free and still unidentified, and will probably go unpunished. And now, I think we should hear from our Oriental
friend.
NIELSON: Yes. Perhaps
he will explain why he failed to get his man.
CHAN: Ladies
and gentleman: Man who fights law always loses - same as grasshopper is always wrong in argument with chicken. You
have all asked Chan questions - Perhaps I can now entertain with few explanations. Mr. Potter was murdered in London
by mistake. How? Murderer entered wrong room. He intended to kill Mr. Decker. Why? Because
Mr. Decker ran away with his wife - and when the pair went, they stole two bags of diamonds. These were to remind him
of what they had done. Murder's name was - Jim Maynard - formerly illicit diamond buyer, South Africa. I have informed
him that, to save embarrassment, I will not make arrest until ship docks in San Francisco. Thank you, so much.
MRS. ROCKWELL: Well,
sitting here in the company of a person who did these things gives me the creeps. I'm going to my cabin.
(Inside Nielson's cabin)
CHAN: Just
as I thought - key is gone.
DICK: Where
is it?
CHAN: Where
I want it - now. On the person of murderer.
MARK: Mr.
Nielson?
DICK (hearing
a scream): Ellen!
MAN'S VOICE: He's
jumped overboard!
DICK: Too
late! That's your man - he's gone!
(On deck - at the ship's
rail)
DICK: Is
that your man, Mr. Chan?
CHAN: No.
Come quickly.
MRS. BENBOW: All
the way around the world - I've been telling that idiot not to sit on the rail!
(Lofton in his stateroom)
(Keane in his stateroom)
(Ross in his stateroom)
(Nielson in his stateroom)
(Inside Chan's cabin)
(On deck silhouette seen
in window)
(A gunshot is followed by
a scuffle on deck)
(Inside Chan's cabin)
CHAN: Too
bad - my best suit - Mr. Maynard!
CAPTAIN: Maynard?
I thought his name was Ross.
CHAN: No.
Jim Maynard. See, hear, and - win! Your warning, Mr. Maynard. Very useful!
DICK: How
about the key, Mr. Chan?
CHAN: Ah -
thank you, so much.
ROSS: Never
mind! It's in my right vest pocket. Very well - you've got me. I'm sorry for Mr. Potter, but not for the
other two. They got what they deserved. But, will you tell me something?
CHAN: If
I may.
ROSS: Where
did I slip up? How did you recognize me?
CHAN: I
wasn't sure - until just now.
ROSS: You
weren't?
CHAN: Oh,
I wrote everybody the same letter. But you are only one who came here to shoot my best suit.
CAPTAIN: What
do you want to do with him?
CHAN: Take
charge, please, until I get back.
MAX (to Chan): Shake,
Chinaman! We'll see you in Chicago!
MAX (to Ross): So,
Ross - I thought you were smarter than to let that Chinese get you! The best thing you can do now - is get yourself
a good shyster!
(At door to the wireless
room)
CHAN (dictating
to wireless operator): Honorable Inspector Duff - Kindly providence has sprinkled your
contemptible substitute with shower of luck - Ross is under arrest.
CHAN (to Ellen): Am
sending a cable to Inspector Duff - Would you like to tell him anything?
ELLEN: Yes -
tell him -
DICK: Yes -
tell him that -
CHAN: - Miss
Potter and Mr. Kennaway have decided to become one - for now -
ELLEN: Oh,
Mr. Chan!
INSERT TITLE:
THE END.

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