MR. MALCOLM'S LIST
Written By
Suzanne Allain
Verve
(310)558-2424
Benderspink
(323)904-1815
INT. YOUNG LADIES’ ACADEMY - PARLOR - DAY (ENGLAND, 1813)
Two pretty 17 year-old girls, SELINA DALTON and JULIA
THISTLEWAITE, sit on a sofa. They wear their hair down,
signifying they have not yet “come out”.
From Julia's expensive clothing it's obvious she's much
richer than Selina. It's also obvious she's preparing to
leave; she wears a cloak and is surrounded by boxes.
JULIA
You must promise to write to me
every week.
SELINA
I promise. Will you write to me
every week as well?
JULIA
I will try, Selina, but I cannot
guarantee a regular correspondence.
Once I make my come-out I will be
far too busy. But we shall always
remain friends no matter how
popular I become.
SELINA
And you really think I can visit
you in London one day?
JULIA
Of course! After I've made a
brilliant match you must come stay
with me. Then I shall find you a
husband.
A FOOTMAN enters the room.
FOOTMAN
Your carriage is here, miss.
Both girls stand and look sorrowfully at each other.
JULIA
Dearest Selina! I am in agony over
our parting.
Selina hugs Julia a little too enthusiastically and knocks
her bonnet askew. Julia, frowning, removes herself from
Selina's embrace and straightens her hat.
The footman picks up the largest box. Julia picks up a small
bag, leaving two on the floor.
She looks over at Selina, her eyebrows raised.
Selina picks up the other two bags and follows Julia from the
room.
EXT. LADIES' ACADEMY - FRONT – DAY - MOMENTS LATER
The bags are stowed in the carriage and Julia gets inside.
As the carriage drives away, Julia sticks her hand out the
window, waving her handkerchief.
Selina watches, waving, until the carriage is out of sight.
EXT. MRS. OSSORY'S TOWNHOUSE, BATH, ENGLAND – DAY
It is five years later, and Selina, now 22, enters the
townhouse.
INT. MRS. OSSORY'S TOWNHOUSE – ENTRY HALL - MOMENTS LATER
A MAID takes Selina's bonnet. Selina now wears her hair up.
MAID
Miss Dalton, you have a caller.
SELINA
But I am not accepting callers.
MAID
I know that and you know that,
Miss, but try telling that to
someone who knows more than both of
us and all of England besides.
Selina checks her hair in the hall mirror before entering the
drawing room.
INT. MRS. OSSORY'S TOWNHOUSE – DRAWING ROOM - CONTINUOUS
MR. WOODBURY, (65) plump and perspiring, rises from his seat
at Selina's entrance.
SELINA
Mr. Woodbury, it is kind of you to
call, but you must realize that I
have no chaperon and it would be
improper of me to receive you.
MR. WOODBURY
I do not think it improper to
dispense with chaperonage this
once, Miss Dalton, as I have
something of a private nature to
discuss with you.
He walks toward her until he is standing uncomfortably close.
She backs away.
MR. WOODBURY (CONT’D)
I realize I may be your senior by
a… few years, but I have always
felt that a woman would benefit
from a more mature consort, one who
can give her guidance in life.
He continues to follow her around the room as he talks. She
continues to evade him.
SELINA
Like a father, you mean?
MR. WOODBURY
Ah, you jest, Miss Dalton. Or
Selina, if I might be so bold. You
must realize by now how ardently I
admire you and that my fondest
desire is to take you to wife.
He reaches for her hand. She jerks it away.
SELINA
Mr. Woodbury, I am greatly honoured
by your offer, but I cannot accept.
MR. WOODBURY
I am figuratively on one knee
before you! Surely you would not be
so cruel.
SELINA
I am sorry if my answer causes you
pain, but my decision is an
unalterable one.
MR. WOODBURY
Do not be too hasty, Miss Dalton.
‘Tis common knowledge that your
father is of modest means and you
are but one of his many offspring.
(MORE)
MR. WOODBURY (CONT'D)
I am prepared to assist them if we
wed, but if you refuse me and
return to your father's house your
prospects will be grim, indeed.
SELINA
‘Tis true that my family situation
weighs heavily on me, sir, but I
still must refuse your kind offer.
MR. WOODBURY
I find such an attitude quite
incomprehensible. I warn you, this
offer shall not be extended a
second time.
SELINA
I understand, Mr. Woodbury, and
fully accept the consequences of my
decision. And now, I must beg you
to excuse me.
Mr. Woodbury walks to the door, pauses to take one last look
at Selina, and leaves.
Selina drops onto the sofa with a sigh.
After a moment she gets up and walks over to a desk, where
she seals and addresses an ENVELOPE.
INT. THISTLEWAITE'S TOWNHOUSE - BREAKFAST ROOM - DAY
Julia (22) and MRS. THISTLEWAITE (55), a petite, timid woman,
eat breakfast.
A SERVANT enters, placing the mail on the table near Julia.
MRS. THISTLEWAITE
Is that a letter from Selina, my
dear?
JULIA
Yes. I cannot think why she writes
so often.
Julia thumbs through the rest of the mail.
JULIA (CONT’D)
There is also something from Lady
Burke.
She opens the envelope and pulls out a sheet which she
unfolds.
JULIA (CONT’D)
She sent me one of those wicked
caricatures that are all the rage.
It appears to be of Mr. Malcolm.
CU on caricature:
A superior-looking gentleman peers
through a quizzing glass at a line of young ladies.
CU on most prominent young lady in caricature: It is Julia.
JULIA (CONT’D)
(delighted)
And I am in it as well!
CU on the caption. It reads “Next!”
Julia's happy expression changes to outrage.
JULIA (CONT’D)
No, it can’t be!
MRS. THISTLEWAITE
What is it, my dear?
INT. THISTLEWAITE'S TOWNHOUSE - HALLWAY – DAY
Two FOOTMEN stand on either side of the closed door to the
Breakfast Room. A SCREAM is heard emanating from the room.
The footmen exchange glances.
INT. BALLROOM - NIGHT
MR. JEREMY MALCOLM (30), good-looking and richly dressed,
surveys waltzing couples through a quizzing glass from the
edge of the room. He is accompanied by LORD CASSIDY, aka
CASSIE (28), a gangly, awkward fellow.
CASSIE
You're acquiring quite a
reputation, Malcolm.
MALCOLM
Is that so?
CASSIE
Yes, indeed. They are calling you
a Trifler, a Breaker of Hearts, a
Destroyer of Young Ladies' Dreams.
Malcolm is surprised into a laugh and drops his quizzing
glass.
What rot.
MALCOLM
CASSIE
Perhaps the gossips are correct.
You paid very particular attentions
to my cousin Julia, and now have
not been to call in over a week.
MALCOLM
I escorted your cousin to the
opera. I would not say that I paid
her ‘very particular attentions'.
CASSIE
What actually occurred is beside
the point. It's what people say
that matters. And everyone's saying
there must be something wrong with
Julia.
MALCOLM
I am sorry your cousin has become
the target of gossips, but I do not
intend to marry a woman merely
because I took her to an opera.
CASSIE
No one said you had to.
Two DEBUTANTES (18) walk by arm-and-arm.
admiringly at Malcolm.
One gazes
MALCOLM
But it is what they want. What are
those dreams that I am accused of
destroying? They are dreams of
wedding the “catch of the season”
purely for the sake of my fortune.
Malcolm raises his quizzing glass and submits the debutante
to an intimidating appraisal.
She looks away and quickens her pace.
He drops the glass.
CASSIE
So why not choose some girl and
make an end of it?
MALCOLM
Why do you think I am here tonight?
I'm very anxious to find a suitable
bride.
CASSIE
Then why not Julia? She's
generally acknowledged a handsome
girl.
MALCOLM
She's handsome enough, but she's
not the girl for me.
Why not?
CASSIE
MALCOLM
I don't know.
(beat)
She flutters her eyelashes too
much.
CASSIE
What? She flutters her eyelashes
too much? That is your reason?
MALCOLM
I thought a few times she was
dozing off. Once I thought she was
about to swoon so I grabbed her
arm. That made her eyes open
quickly enough.
Cassie shakes his head in disappointment.
CASSIE
That's a pretty paltry reason.
MALCOLM
It was not the only thing that
decided me against Miss
Thistlewaite.
Malcolm reaches inside his waistcoat pocket and removes a
piece of paper. He peruses it while Cassie looks over his
shoulder.
MALCOLM (CONT’D)
Here it is. Item 4: ‘The ability
to converse in a sensible fashion.'
My tailor's conversation is more
scintillating than your cousin's. I
tried to engage her in a discussion
about the Corn Laws and she thought
it was some kind of diet regimen.
CASSIE
What is that, Malcolm?
list?
Is that a
Cassie reaches for the list but Malcolm folds it and returns
it to his pocket.
MALCOLM
Yes, it is.
CASSIE
You have some sort of list of
qualifications for a bride?
So?
MALCOLM
CASSIE
So, that is damned arrogant of you.
No wonder you cannot settle upon
anyone. You want them to meet some
catalogue of requirements, like,
like a tandem horse you're
purchasing for your curricle.
MALCOLM
Exactly. I have definite
requirements when filling my
stable. Why should I not have even
more stringent requirements for a
bride?
CASSIE
(muttering)
Next thing you know you'll be
putting her through her paces and
checking her teeth.
INT. BALLROOM – LATER
Malcolm turns to leave and finds his way blocked by a pair of
DEBUTANTES. He bows and steps aside.
The ladies giggle and walk by, darting glances at Malcolm as
they pass. They whisper together:
DEBUTANTE #1
(first part is
unintelligible)
…twenty thousand a year.
DEBUTANTE #2
And a mansion in Kent.
Malcolm's expression hardens and he pats the pocket that
contains his list.
INT. THISTLEWAITE'S TOWNHOUSE - DRAWING ROOM - DAY
Cassie stares owlishly at a figurine of a Chinese sage with
slanted eyebrows and a maniacal smile.
In the background Julia enters the room and sneaks up behind
him.
JULIA
He does not bite, you know.
Cassie jumps in surprise and Julia laughs.
CASSIE
You have the manners of a
Billingsgate fishwife.
JULIA
I would not know, as I do not keep
the low society you do.
Julia sits and Cassie, glaring at her, sits opposite.
JULIA (CONT’D)
Did you speak to Mr. Malcolm?
CASSIE
I did, though it pained me to do
so. A man would have to be out of
his head to marry you.
JULIA
Then it must comfort you to know
that you will never be offered such
a fate. What did he say about me?
CASSIE
He agreed you are a handsome girl—
JULIA
Did he? That is good newsCASSIE
Wait, you did not let me finish.
He is not at all interested in you.
He's got this list, you see, and
you did not meet the fourth
qualification.
(MORE)
CASSIE (CONT'D)
I would have failed it as well, as
I have no interest in politics and
have always found the Corn Laws
particularly confusing. I mean,
what difference does it make if
they grow the corn in Berkshire or
France?
JULIA
I’m not sure I understand: Are you
saying he has a list of
requirements for a bride?
CASSIE
Yes, and I must say I did not care
for the idea at first myself, but
when he explained it to me I could
see his point. What if the girl
has some odd kick in her gallop?
JULIA
I would like to know what is on
this list, Cassie. Did you see it?
CASSIE
(shaking his head)
Yes, but it would do you no good.
No good at all. Even if you had
passed the Corn Laws test, your
eyelashes irritate him to no end.
JULIA
My eyelashes? Is the man deranged?
CASSIE
Of course not. You just can’t fool
him with those tricks you pull. He
despises flirtatious games.
Julia rises from her seat and begins pacing.
too, but she waves him back into his seat.
JULIA
(muttering to herself)
The unmitigated gall! What
conceit!
Cassie watches nervously as she paces.
JULIA (CONT’D)
Somehow I will see to it that the
honourable Mr. Malcolm receives
exactly what he deserves.
Cassie rises,
EXT. BATH, ENGLAND STREET - DAY
Selina Dalton exits the post office. She opens an envelope,
reading the letter as she walks.
JULIA (O.S.)
Dear Selina, I received your letter
with the news of the unfortunate
demise of your employer. As you
will soon be leaving Bath, I hoped
you'd come visit me in London for
what is left of the season. I
promise you will be well
entertained.
Selina looks up from her letter, smiling.
EXT. THISTLEWAITE'S TOWNHOUSE - DAY
A carriage arrives. Selina steps down from the carriage.
INT. THISTLEWAITE'S TOWNHOUSE - DRAWING ROOM - MOMENTS LATER
Selina rushes over to greet Julia, who rises from the sofa at
her entrance.
Julia!
again.
SELINA
How lovely to see you
Julia walks around Selina, looking her up and down. Selina's
smile fades somewhat.
Julia, her inspection finished, flashes an insincere smile
and takes Selina's hands.
JULIA
Dearest Selina. Please come and sit
down, so we can renew our
acquaintance. Tell me, what have
you been doing this—has it really
been five years?
SELINA
It has indeed. As I mentioned in
my letters, I have been in Bath
serving as companion to Mrs.
Ossory.
JULIA
How dreary for you.
SELINA
It was not at all unpleasant,
though I did long for some
companions my own age. Bath has
become quite the destination for
septuagenarians.
JULIA
I completely understand. I find
foreigners extremely tedious, as
well.
Beat.
SELINA
Your letter came in the nick of
time. I was to return home, but
there's really no room for me in
the vicarage, and I have yet to
find another position.
JULIA
My dear Selina, if it is a position
you're looking for, look no
further. I've got the very thing.
The conversation is interrupted by Cassie's entrance.
JULIA (CONT’D)
Miss Dalton, may I present my
cousin, Lord Cassidy.
CASSIE
(bows)
Pleased to make your acquaintance,
Miss Dalton.
Cassie ruins the elegant impression he has made by tripping
over a side table on his way to sit down.
CASSIE (CONT’D)
Dashed knicknackery.
Julia rolls her eyes before turning again to Selina.
JULIA
What was it we were discussing?
SELINA
You mentioned that you might know
of a position?
JULIA
Perhaps I'd better start at the
beginning. You see, there is a
young gentleman, a Mr. Malcolm, who
is widely known for his arrogance.
He recently paid me very pointed
attentions then humiliated me by
withdrawing his suit.
SELINA
Oh, Julia, how dreadful for you!
am so sorry.
I
JULIA
Yes, it was very unpleasant;
particularly when I discovered that
he has a list that he judged me
against, and found me wanting.
SELINA
A list? How very bizarre. What
sort of list?
JULIA
It is a list of the qualifications
he is looking for in a bride, but
he believes himself so superior
that his requirements are quite
unreachable. I would love to see
Mr. Malcolm receive the comeuppance
he deserves but I need your
assistance.
SELINA
My assistance?
JULIA
Yes. If we were to present you as
the perfect woman he is looking
for, and then allow him to discover
you have a list, and he does not
meet the qualifications on your
list, it would be a perfect sort of
poetic justice.
SELINA
I don't know, Julia. It sounds
rather...devious.
JULIA
Do not be such a namby-pamby,
Selina.
(MORE)
JULIA (CONT'D)
You will not be doing anything to
Mr. Malcolm that he has not already
done himself to more than one young
lady.
SELINA
But if he is as arrogant and
fastidious as you say, how am I to
attract his attention? If Mr.
Malcolm was not captivated by you,
surely he will not even look in my
direction.
JULIA
Why Selina, how astute an
observation! However, while you are
not a beauty in the classical
sense, you are better informed than
I or any other young lady has been.
You know about the list, and with
some tutelage from me and my
cousin, you have a very good chance
of meeting the requirements.
Selina looks over at Cassie, who has caught his coat sleeve
between the side table and his chair. While attempting to
remove it he knocks over a vase which he manages to catch
just before it hits the floor.
SELINA
Your cousin is going to instruct me
on how to attract a sophisticated
gentleman of particular tastes?
Cassie looks up from an examination of his torn coat sleeve.
CASSIE
Malcolm's my good friend.
him better than most.
I know
SELINA
And you agree he deserves such
treatment?
Cassie looks over at Julia with a scowl.
he can.
JULIA
Of course he does.
SELINA
(shaking her head)
I don't think—
She answers before
JULIA
I do hope you'll agree to help me,
Selina, or we may have to cut your
delightful visit short. It is too
bad; I had intended to introduce
you to all of my acquaintance.
There is a long pause, as Selina registers the nature of
Julia's threat. She sighs.
SELINA
What is it exactly that you want me
to do?
INT. LONDON DRESSMAKER'S SHOP - DAY
Selina is wearing a ball gown, while Julia, the DRESSMAKER,
and an ASSISTANT stare at her.
Julia walks around Selina, looking her up and down, before
finally instructing the dressmaker:
JULIA
Lower across the bodice.
Julia!
SELINA
INT. THISTLEWAITE'S TOWNHOUSE - MUSIC ROOM - DAY
Cassie and Selina waltz by as Julia studies them.
JULIA
Back arched just a little, Selina.
Remember, we're having the gown cut
low. You don't want him to miss
the effect.
Selina stops dancing mid-step.
SELINA
Julia! That's outrageous!
JULIA
One, two, three, One, two,
three…Don't stop now, Selina, you
will trip Cassie.
Selina is swept back into the movements of the dance.
INT. THISTLEWAITE'S TOWNHOUSE - DRAWING ROOM - DAY
Selina sits on a sofa as Julia and Cassie bark instructions
at her.
JULIA
You must exude a certain elegance
of mind, a knowledge of the world,
while still retaining the naïveté
that gentlemen find so charming.
Selina nods, hiding a yawn behind her hand.
CASSIE
Do you know anything about the Corn
Laws?
SELINA
Yes, of course I do.
CASSIE
It's very important that you do.
I've brought you some tracts on the
subject.
JULIA
Don't waste too much time on those
tracts, Selina. A gentleman doesn't
like the lady to be more
intelligent than him. Isn't that
right, Cassie?
Julia looks mischievously over at her cousin. He scowls at
her. She turns back to Selina.
JULIA (CONT'D)
And thinking too deeply causes
forehead furrows.
Julia gently touches the space between Selina's brows with
one finger.
JULIA (CONT’D)
It might be a good idea if you were
to meditate on the ocean. I have
found if I think of the sea I am
less apt to wrinkle my brow.
Selina puts her hand to her forehead, but before she can
reply to Julia, Cassie issues a command.
CASSIE
Oh, I almost forgot.
No winking.
SELINA
I beg your pardon?
CASSIE
Malcolm doesn't like flirtatious
tricks.
JULIA
Cassie, if you were paying the
least bit of attention, you would
have realized I already said that.
I explained to Selina that there
should be no artificiality in her
behavior when she pretends an
attraction to Mr. Malcolm.
CASSIE
That doesn't sound anything at all
like what I said.
JULIA
Excuse me for not using words of
fewer syllablesCASSIE
Well, if you are so smart, Miss
Hoity-Toity, why couldn't you pass
Malcolm's little test?
JULIA
Perhaps if you'd warned me—
SELINA
Enough! I believe I have an idea
of what Mr. Malcolm is looking for.
Now what plan do you have for us to
meet?
INT. LONDON TOWNHOUSE – LIBRARY - NIGHT
Selina is dressed in her new ball gown, looking very
beautiful, as she peeks out of the door into the hallway.
waltz can be heard in the distance.
SELINA
(mutters)
I should have gone home after all.
MALCOLM (O.S.)
I beg your pardon?
A
Selina whirls around as Malcolm emerges from the shadows.
Her eyes widen at the sight of him and there is a pause as
their eyes meet and attraction ensues.
SELINA
I am sorry to disturb you, sir.
thought this room unoccupied.
I
MALCOLM
‘Tis no matter.
He folds a piece of paper and slips it into his pocket.
MALCOLM (CONT’D)
I was just reflecting on the
futility of a dream.
SELINA
(shyly)
Is any dream futile? It gives us
hope, and hope is a good thing.
MALCOLM
In your opinion. Others of us may
believe, as the poet said: ‘Hope is
the most hopeless thing of all.'
SELINA
What a sad conviction! I prefer to
believe, as Johnson did, that hope
is the ‘chief happiness which this
world affords.'
She smiles at him, and Malcolm finds himself at a sudden loss
for words.
SELINA (CONT’D)
But perhaps you hope for something
unworthy, in which case you deserve
to hope in vain. Confess, sir, you
were hoping to win at the gaming
tables and have lost, and are now
indulging in a fit of pique.
MALCOLM
(smiling)
I would not confess to such
childish conduct, though had I
played I would have hoped to win.
SELINA
So you contend that you hope for
something worthy?
MALCOLM
I do, indeed.
SELINA
Then it is my hope that you obtain
it.
MALCOLM
I am honoured. Perhaps I am
mistaken in thinking hope a useless
thing.
There is a charged silence as they stare at one another,
until finally Selina looks away.
SELINA
I am sorry; I disturbed you. I
should go.
MALCOLM
No, I should be the one to leave.
I have spent enough time in
solitary reflection.
Malcolm walks over to where Selina stands by the door,
pausing beside her.
MALCOLM (CONT’D)
I would be delighted if you would
save a dance for me, once you
return to the ballroom and we have
been properly introduced.
Selina smiles and nods and Malcolm leaves the room.
INT. LONDON TOWNHOUSE – BALLROOM - NIGHT - MOMENTS LATER
Malcolm enters the ballroom and is immediately approached by
Cassie.
CASSIE
Where have you been? I've got a
likely prospect for you. Young
filly, deep-chested, long legs…
MALCOLM
(sighs)
I very much regret using that horse
analogy. Particularly as you’ve
described every female since in
equine terms.
CASSIE
I think you'll like this one. She's
new in town; has quite the air of
mystery about her.
MALCOLM
Sounds rather alarming. I tend to
keep my distance from mysterious
young ladies. Besides, I've found a
likely prospect of my own.
Malcolm scans the ballroom.
MALCOLM (CONT’D)
(mutters)
I wonder how long she'll stay in
the library.
CASSIE
What's that you said? Did you say
you met her in the library?
MALCOLM
Yes, though she'll probably turn
out to be married or equally
ineligible.
CASSIE
Excuse me a moment, Malcolm.
INT. LONDON TOWNHOUSE – LIBRARY - NIGHT - MOMENTS LATER
Cassie hurries into the room to find Selina sitting on a
chair, her chin propped on her hands.
CASSIE
Selina, did you just meet a
gentleman in here?
SELINA
(mournfully)
Yes. He was beautiful.
me to dance.
Excellent!
He asked
CASSIE
SELINA
I do not see what's excellent about
it. Julia says I'm not to leave
this room for the rest of the
night. She says she has to create
an "aura of mystery" about me.
CASSIE
Forget what Julia told you. We are
returning to the ballroom so that
you can have that dance.
Why?
SELINA
Do you know the gentleman?
CASSIE
(grinning)
I rather think I do.
INT. LONDON TOWNHOUSE – BALLROOM – NIGHT - MOMENTS LATER
Mrs. Thistlewaite sits at the edge of the room, watching the
dancing. She stands as Cassie and Selina approach, dropping
her shawl on the floor. Selina retrieves it for her.
MRS. THISTLEWAITE
Oh, how clumsy of me. Thank you,
Selina. But why have you not been
dancing? I have not seen you dance
with anyone other than Cassie.
Julia arrives before Selina can reply.
JULIA
What is Selina doing here?
Everyone is fascinated by the new
Incognita. If they actually meet
Selina they will no longer be
interested in her.
CASSIE
There has been an interesting
development…
Malcolm walks up.
CASSIE (CONT’D)
Why, here he is now. Miss Dalton,
may I present Mr. Malcolm.
SELINA
(in a shocked undertone)
Mr. Malcolm!
MALCOLM
Miss Dalton, I am pleased to make
your acquaintance.
Malcolm bows over Selina's hand and she sinks into a curtsey.
MALCOLM (CONT’D)
May I have this dance?
Julia hurries to interrupt before Selina can agree.
JULIA
Unfortunately, sir, you have come
too late. Miss Dalton has been
besieged by admirers since she
arrived, and has promised all of
her dances. Regrettably, I have
not enjoyed such success, and have
this dance free.
Julia flutters her eyelashes at him in an obvious invitation.
MALCOLM
Then perhaps you would care to
dance with me, Miss Thistlewaite?
Julia and Malcolm join the dancers, while Selina looks
longingly in their direction.
INT. THISTLEWAITE'S TOWNHOUSE - DRAWING ROOM - DAY
Julia and Selina sit with Mrs. Thistlewaite, needlework in
hand, while they await the morning's callers.
JULIA
Now, remember Selina, if Malcolm
should ask you to drive you're to
tell him you have a previous
appointment with Cassie.
SELINA
Please forgive me if I'm being
obtuse, but how am I to attract Mr.
Malcolm when I spend all my time
with Lord Cassidy?
JULIA
Selina, can you really be so
ignorant? Nothing is as fatal to a
gentleman's regard as a show of
interest on the lady's part.
SELINA
(sarcastically)
I must be uninformed, indeed, to
think a gentleman would appreciate
evidence that his feelings were
reciprocated to some small degree.
JULIA
Do not feel too badly about it.
You have been living in Bath, after
all, so such ignorance can be
pardoned. ‘Tis a good thing I am
here to tell you how to go on.
SELINA
I am truly fortunate.
REEVES, the butler, enters the room.
REEVES
The honourable Mr. Malcolm.
Malcolm enters and bows.
MALCOLM
Good afternoon.
The ladies nod in response. Malcolm turns toward Selina.
MALCOLM (CONT’D)
I was hoping, Miss Dalton, that you
might join me for a drive.
SELINA
That sounds lovelyJULIA
Selina, do not forget that you
agreed to drive with Cassie this
afternoon.
MALCOLM
Miss Thistlewaite, while I
appreciate your loyalty to your
cousin, Cassie is not here and I
am. Miss Dalton?
Selina hurries to the door before Julia can object once
again.
INT. HORSE-DRAWN CURRICLE (MOVING) - DAY
Mr. Malcolm drives with Selina at his side.
MALCOLM
Miss Thistlewaite appears
determined to keep us from enjoying
one another's company.
Selina fidgets nervously with her glove.
SELINA
Perhaps she's merely looking out
for my best interests.
How so?
MALCOLM
SELINA
Well, you have a certain reputation
as a –
She hesitates.
Trifler?
Well, yes.
MALCOLM
SELINA
MALCOLM
A Breaker of Hearts?
SELINA
I suppose one could say that.
MALCOLM
A Destroyer of Young Ladies'
Dreams?
SELINA
That is an absurd exaggeration, but
I have heard some rumors along
those lines.
MALCOLM
And you believe this description of
me?
There is a pause, while Selina studies Malcolm's face as he
stares ahead at the road.
SELINA
(softly)
I believe there are two sides to
every story.
Malcolm turns to smile at Selina.
MALCOLM
I am relieved to hear you say that,
Miss Dalton, because I do not feel
I deserve the reputation I have
acquired.
(MORE)
MALCOLM (CONT'D)
Particularly in Miss Thistlewaite's
case do I feel myself blameless.
SELINA
She told me that you paid her very
marked attentions.
MALCOLM
I escorted her to the opera.
Once.
SELINA
I see. Was it an amusing opera?
Malcolm pauses to reflect.
MALCOLM
No, it was not. The soprano missed
most of her notes, and Miss
Thistlewaite wore a feather in her
hair. The feather brushed my nose
frequently during the evening and I
found myself wanting to sneeze.
SELINA
I completely understand.
MALCOLM
(glancing at her)
Do you?
SELINA
I do, indeed. You and Miss
Thistlewaite are the victims of a
most egregious set of
circumstances. Feathers and
screeching sopranos are not
conducive to romance. Even the
greatest and most historic pair of
lovers would be daunted by
circumstances such as those.
MALCOLM
So you acquit me of trifling with
Miss Thistlewaite's affections?
SELINA
I am afraid I cannot. You were too
easily put off, you see. A sincere
gentleman would have tried a second
time. Invited her to a musical
concert, perhaps.
MALCOLM
But I knew I was not interested in
Miss Thistlewaite after the opera.
Had I continued to pursue her I
would have deserved the reputation
I have acquired.
SELINA
Perhaps you are right. Poor Julia,
I can understand her
disappointment. It must be
humiliating to inspire no stronger
inclination in a gentleman than
that to sneeze.
HENRY (O.S.)
Jeremy? Jeremy Malcolm?
They turn to see HENRY OSSORY (25) approaching on horseback,
his boyish, blonde good looks a contrast to his friend
Malcolm’s dark sophistication.
Malcolm reins in his horses.
MALCOLM
Henry, old man, this is a surprise!
I thought you were stationed with
your regiment in the north.
HENRY
Yes, well, I decided to sell out
and join the ranks of you idle
gentlemen.
MALCOLM
Are you sure you're up for it?
can be quite exhausting.
(turning to Selina)
Excuse me, Miss Dalton. May I
present Mr. Henry Ossory?
HENRY
(surprised)
Miss Dalton?
SELINA
(equally surprised)
Mr. Ossory?
HENRY
Miss Selina Dalton?
It
MALCOLM
I take it you two are familiar with
each other?
HENRY
Miss Dalton was an excellent friend
to my uncle's widow.
SELINA
I am very pleased to meet you, sir.
I esteemed your aunt very highly,
and wished to express my
condolences to you.
Thank you.
HENRY
Henry's horse whinnies and he reaches down to pat it.
HENRY (CONT’D)
I should probably let you resume
your drive, but I would be pleased
to call on you, Miss Dalton, if you
would give me your direction.
SELINA
I am staying at #7, Berkeley
Square.
HENRY
I will call on you shortly.
day, Miss Dalton. Malcolm.
Good
Henry rides away.
SELINA
What a fortuitous meeting.
MALCOLM
(rather grimly)
Indeed.
INT. THISTLEWAITE'S TOWNHOUSE - HALL - DAY - LATER
Selina is walking through the hall, when Julia suddenly grabs
her by the arm and pulls her into the drawing room.
INT. THISTLEWAITE'S TOWNHOUSE - DRAWING ROOM - CONTINUOUS
JULIA
Selina, why did you drive out with
Mr. Malcolm?
(MORE)
JULIA (CONT'D)
We agreed it would be better for
you to avoid being alone with him
for a few days longer, to ensure
that you had caught his interest.
SELINA
I am sorry, Julia, but I want
nothing to do with this scheme of
yours. Mr. Malcolm does not seem
arrogant to me.
JULIA
You are being naïve. I told you
that he trifled with me and
humiliated me.
SELINA
But he told me that all he did was
escort you to the opera. That does
not seem so serious a crime.
JULIA
(growing agitated)
Did he mention the list? Did he
tell you about my eyelashes?
SELINA
Your eyelashes?
JULIA
Selina, please say you'll help me.
There is nothing I can do to touch
him; he holds all of London society
in his palm. This is the only way,
don't you see that?
SELINA
I just do not think he is the
villain you paint him, Julia.
Perhaps you should get to know him
better.
JULIA
I do not wish to know him any
better! I want him humiliated, as
I was.
SELINA
Then you had better do it. I want
no part of such a scheme.
There is a long pause while Julia regains her composure and a
haughty expression replaces her petulant one.
JULIA
I think that I made a mistake in
inviting you here. Perhaps you had
better leave.
SELINA
Perhaps you are right.
Selina turns to leave the room, but Julia runs to the door,
blocking her path.
JULIA
Selina, I was not serious. Please
do not leave.
SELINA
I do not think I would like to stay
under these circumstances.
JULIA
I understand. Everyone takes his
side.
SELINA
I am not taking any side—
JULIA
(interrupts)
I have known you for years, and you
have known Mr. Malcolm less than
one day, but I realize I can never
compete with him. He has this
effect on all women. He exercises
some kind of power over them.
SELINA
He did not exercise any power over
me!
JULIA
Are you certain about that? You
did not find something…mesmerizing
about him?
SELINA
(uncomfortably)
I cannot deny that I felt a
certain…attraction. But that does
not mean I agree with your
assessment of him.
JULIA
I am just asking you to think on
it, Selina. Just think on it.
SELINA
(sighs)
All right, Julia.
I will.
INT. THISTLEWAITE'S TOWNHOUSE - DRAWING ROOM - DAY
Julia and Selina sit with Mrs. Thistlewaite, needlework in
hand. The butler enters.
REEVES
Mr. Henry Ossory.
Henry enters and Selina rises and leads him to Mrs.
Thistlewaite.
SELINA
May I present Mr. Henry Ossory to
you, ma'am? Mr. Ossory, this is
Mrs. Thistlewaite, and Miss
Thistlewaite.
HENRY
Your servant, Mrs. Thistlewaite,
Miss Thistlewaite.
MRS. THISTLEWAITE
Please be seated Mr. Ossory.
HENRY
Thank you, ma'am, but I actually
came to request the pleasure of a
drive with Miss Dalton.
SELINA
That would be lovely. Please
excuse me for a moment while I
collect my things.
Henry stands while Selina leaves the room, then takes a seat
near Julia.
JULIA
So, Mr. Ossory, are you situated in
town, or are you here for a visit?
She flutters her eyelashes at him.
EXT. LONDON STREET - DAY
Henry drives a horse-drawn curricle while Selina sits beside
him.
INT. HORSE-DRAWN CURRICLE (MOVING) - DAY
HENRY
I am not sure if you are aware that
my aunt mentioned you many times in
her correspondence with me, Miss
Dalton.
SELINA
Your aunt spoke of you quite often
as well. I am very pleased to have
this opportunity to make your
acquaintance.
HENRY
I feel likewise. However, I must
admit to yet another motive in
seeking you out.
There is a short pause, as Henry struggles to find the right
words.
HENRY (CONT’D)
I came to town to meet you because
‘tis my belief that my aunt desired
us to make a match.
SELINA
(surprised and
embarrassed)
What(she clears her throat)
what gave you that impression?
HENRY
Her letter to me before her death.
In it she wrote: ‘It is my desire
that you and Miss Dalton make a
match.'
SELINA
Oh. I see. Then it appears you
interpreted her meaning correctly.
There is an awkward silence, until Selina peeks over at
Henry, who is at that moment looking at her. Their eyes meet
and suddenly Henry smiles.
HENRY
Yes, her words were rather plain.
Unless she was speaking of
cribbage. She could have meant
that we should engage in a cribbage
match.
Selina's shyness fades and she smiles back.
SELINA
Or chess! Could she not have been
speaking of chess?
HENRY
(mock seriously)
I am afraid not. My aunt knew me
to be a very poor chess player.
SELINA
There's always cricket. How do you
do at cricket, Mr. Ossory?
EXT. LONDON STREET - DAY
Malcolm has ridden up on horseback beside the curricle and is
waiting in vain for the couple to acknowledge his presence.
MALCOLM
Good day, Henry, Miss Dalton.
Selina and Henry look up from their conversation, startled at
his presence. Henry brings his team to a halt.
Malcolm!
HENRY
How nice to see you!
SELINA
Good day, Mr. Malcolm.
MALCOLM
It appears I have interrupted a
humorous discussion.
SELINA
It was nothing of consequence. We
were just discussing a letter Mr.
Ossory received from his aunt.
There is an uncomfortable silence.
MALCOLM
I wondered if you were to attend
Lady Hartley's ball this evening.
SELINA
I believe I am.
Excellent.
a dance.
MALCOLM
Perhaps you can save me
SELINA
I would be pleased to.
HENRY
I, too, am to attend Lady Hartley's
ball. Might I also be favored with
a dance?
Malcolm frowns. Selina is flustered at receiving attention
from two gentlemen.
Certainly.
SELINA
INT. THISTLEWAITE'S TOWNHOUSE – SELINA'S ROOM - DAY
Selina pulls back the curtains that surround her bed to find
Julia laying there, fully clothed and sound asleep.
SELINA
Julia. Julia! What are you doing
in my bed?
Selina shakes Julia, who finally awakens.
JULIA
What? Oh.
(yawns)
I was waiting for you to return
from your drive. Apparently I fell
asleep.
SELINA
Apparently so.
JULIA
(sitting up)
Well, how was it?
SELINA
It was quite pleasant.
JULIA
I am sure it was. Mr. Ossory seems
like a pleasant young man.
He is.
SELINA
Selina crosses her arms over her chest, waiting for Julia to
come to the point.
JULIA
He is not interested in you, is he?
SELINA
Interested in me?
JULIA
Romantically, I mean.
SELINA
Of course not.
JULIA
I must say, I am glad to hear that-SELINA
He is only interested in marrying
me because his aunt thought it
would be a good idea.
JULIA
But he cannot marry you! This will
destroy all my plans. How will
Malcolm fall in love with you if
you become engaged to someone else?
SELINA
Don't worry, Julia. I have no
intention of becoming engaged to
Mr. Ossory…
Julia smiles.
SELINA (CONT’D)
...right away.
Julia frowns.
JULIA
So you do plan on becoming engaged
to him eventually?
SELINA
I do not know. I must admit I had
hoped to meet someone in town I
might marry, so that I could then
be in a position to present my
younger sisters. It is no secret
that my parents cannot afford to do
so. And I like Mr. Ossory, don't
you?
Julia becomes quite interested in examining her nails.
JULIA
I already said I found him
pleasant.
SELINA
He is extremely pleasant. And his
aunt wanted us to make a match.
Selina throws herself onto the bed next to Julia.
SELINA (CONT’D)
I already turned down one very
advantageous offer, and the
gentleman was correct in saying I
might not have the chance again.
JULIA
Who was it?
SELINA
A Mr. Woodbury. He's all of sixtyfive and quite stout.
Selina gives a slight shudder of revulsion.
SELINA (CONT’D)
I felt I could not marry him, even
for my family's sake. However, Mr.
Ossory is comfortably well off and,
as you mentioned, quite
presentable.
JULIA
(nonchalantly)
Indeed.
SELINA
Would it be so wrong of me to marry
him, even when I find myself
attracted to…someone else?
JULIA
I hope you do not mean Mr. Malcolm?
It would be folly to allow yourself
to have feelings for such a man!
SELINA
(sighs)
You are right; he is completely
above my touch. I suppose, then, I
should encourage Mr. Ossory's suit.
I like him well enough.
JULIA
There is no need to be hasty!
Surely you would not want a
gentleman to marry you just because
his aunt asked him to!
SELINA
It hardly matters what I want,
Julia. In my position, I'm merely
thankful for what I can get.
INT. THISTLEWAITE'S TOWNHOUSE - BREAKFAST ROOM - DAY
Julia, Selina, and Mrs. Thistlewaite are at the table. Selina
reads a letter while finishing her tea.
JULIA
I think I shall give a dinner
party.
MRS. THISTLEWAITE
Oh, my dear, I am not sure my poor
nerves could stand it.
JULIA
It will be fine, Mama. Selina and
I will arrange everything. Won't
we, Selina?
Selina looks up from her letter.
SELINA
I beg your pardon, Julia, I was not
attending. What did you say?
JULIA
I am giving a dinner party. I
wondered if you would help me with
the arrangements.
Of course.
SELINA
JULIA
I must say, it does not appear as
if your letter contains agreeable
news.
SELINA
(sighing)
It is from my mother. She's asked
me to call on my cousin's widow,
Mrs. Covington, while I'm in town.
(MORE)
SELINA (CONT'D)
I have only met her once and I am
not anxious to repeat the
experience.
JULIA
Whatever is wrong with her?
SELINA
When I met her last I was only
fifteen and she would not accept me
at my word that I had no beaux.
She quizzed me for twenty minutes
on the subject before offering to
find me a husband. I hate to think
how she'll react if she finds I'm
still unwed at two and twenty. She
was married, widowed, and married
again by that age.
JULIA
She sounds dreadfully vulgar.
Shall I come with you?
SELINA
If you'd like. She lives in Hans
Town.
JULIA
What an unfashionable address. I
don't think I've ever called on
anyone in Hans Town. Perhaps I'd
better change.
Julia stands up and prepares to leave the room, then
hesitates and walks over to Selina, whispering so Mrs.
Thistlewaite cannot hear.
JULIA (CONT’D)
Selina, whatever you do, do not
mention to Malcolm that you have
such a vulgar cousin. Cassie told
me that one of the requirements on
his list is “Genteel relations.”
MRS. THISTLEWAITE
My dear, you must raise your voice.
You know my hearing is not what it
once was. What are you and Selina
whispering about?
JULIA
(raising her voice)
It is nothing, Mama.
(MORE)
JULIA (CONT'D)
We are just discussing the
arrangements for the dinner party.
(lowering her voice again)
Oh, and as long as we're speaking
of it, at the dinner party you will
need to sing and play the
pianoforte. Musical talent is
another item on Malcolm's list.
SELINA
(in a loud voice)
I am surprised Mr. Malcolm desires
a wife when he could just as easily
hire a performing bear!
MRS. THISTLEWAITE
Oh, no, my dear. A performing bear
at a dinner party is not at all the
thing. Perhaps it would be better
if I made the arrangements, after
all.
INT. THISTLEWAITE'S TOWNHOUSE - DINING ROOM - NIGHT
Mrs. Thistlewaite, Julia, Selina, Cassie, Malcolm and Henry
Ossory are at the dining table. Selina is seated between
Malcolm and Cassie.
Henry stares across the table at Selina. Julia taps him on
the shoulder and he turns reluctantly to speak to her.
JULIA
(fluttering her eyelashes)
Tell me, Mr. Ossory, have you
decided to extend your visit to
town?
HENRY
I suppose I must. I seem to be
constantly thwarted in my
endeavors.
ANGLE ON MALCOLM
MALCOLM
Tell me, Miss Dalton, what is your
opinion of the Church Building Act?
SELINA
(humorously)
What a weighty question to ask over
soup.
(MORE)
SELINA (CONT'D)
I believe it is in bad taste to
discuss politics before the entrée
is served.
MALCOLM
You are probably right. However, I
would really like to hear your
opinion.
SELINA
(growing more serious)
Well, as the daughter of a
clergyman, it is obviously
important to me that there are
houses of worship available to all.
However, I feel that the million
pounds set aside for this purpose
is exorbitant. I believe the
government intends by this measure
to…
CUT TO:
CU of Malcolm holding an ink quill. He puts a check next to
number 4 on his list: “The ability to converse in a sensible
fashion.”
INT. THISTLEWAITE'S TOWNHOUSE - DRAWING ROOM - NIGHT
Selina sings a song while accompanying herself on the
pianoforte. Malcolm stands beside her, turning the pages of
the music and watching her face.
CUT TO:
CU of Malcolm putting a check next to number 5 on his list:
“Possesses musical or artistic talent.”
EXT. THISTLEWAITE'S TOWNHOUSE - DAY
Malcolm assists Selina from his curricle and walks her to the
door. In the process he somehow steps on her dress and it
RIPS.
MALCOLM
Please forgive me, Miss Dalton, I
have ruined your dress.
SELINA
‘Tis no matter, Mr. Malcolm.
can easily be repaired.
It
CUT TO:
CU of Malcolm putting a check next to number 8 on his list:
“A forgiving nature.”
INT. THISTLEWAITE'S TOWNHOUSE - DRAWING ROOM - DAY
Selina, Julia, and Cassie sit.
JULIA
So, tell me, Cassie, what does your
friend Malcolm think of Selina?
CASSIE
He told me he'd initially been
impressed by her wit and humor, but
was concerned that she was not
serious enough, which augured an
unsteady character. But he said
after the dinner party that fear
had been laid to rest.
SELINA
(annoyed)
“Not serious enough. Unsteady in
character.” He certainly makes
rash judgments. What, was I to
launch into a political debate in
the middle of a ball?
JULIA
You see, Selina, it is just as I
told you. If you had not joked with
him he would have accused you of
being too serious.
CASSIE
I have probably quoted him
incorrectly, sometimes he uses such
long words… He was very
complimentary. He said that Selina
had met nearly all of the
qualifications on his list, but
there were a few others that he
needed to test her on.
SELINA
So this is what I have to look
forward to, is it? To be tested by
Mr. Malcolm?
Reeves enters the room before Cassie can respond.
REEVES
Mrs. Covington.
Selina's cousin GERTIE COVINGTON (48) enters, dressed
inappropriately. The bosom of her bright pink dress is cut
dangerously low and tight, and her hair is an unnatural red.
GERTIE
Good morning!
SELINA
Cousin Gertie. What a surprise.
JULIA
Please sit down, Mrs. Covington.
GERTIE
I thought we agreed it was to be
Gertie, and you are to be Julia.
Heaven knows I can hardly say Miss
Thistlewaite without spitting,
though I suppose I should not admit
to it.
(laughs heartily)
What you need my girl is a husband,
so you can change that tongue
twister of a name.
JULIA
Yes, well… Mrs. Covington, may I
present my cousin, Lord Cassidy.
CASSIE
Your servant, ma'am.
Reeves enters the room followed by Malcolm.
REEVES
The honourable Mr. Malcolm.
JULIA
Mr. Malcolm, may I present Mrs.
Covington.
Malcolm bows.
MALCOLM
I am honoured to make your
acquaintance, Mrs. Covington.
GERTIE
Oh, no, sir, it is I who am
honoured. I have never been in the
same room with a lord and an
honourable. Though I am not
exactly sure what it means to be an
honourable. It's the next best
thing to being a lord, am I right?
MALCOLM
I am the younger son of an earl.
GERTIE
Now that's a real pity. Because
you've got the look of a lord, much
more so than this young gentleman
here.
(she gestures toward
Cassie)
No offense, your lordship, you seem
a good sort, but Mr. Malcolm has a
more... dignified look about him.
JULIA
Cassie, Mrs. Covington would
probably enjoy going for a drive,
would you not, Mrs. Covington?
GERTIE
That would be quite the treat, but
his lordship may have other plans
for the afternoon.
CASSIE
As a matter of fact…
(intercepts a commanding
look from Julia)
I would be pleased to take you for
a spin.
GERTIE
Why, thank you kindly. I am glad I
dressed so sensibly today. I almost
wore a different gown but I decided
it looked a little immature. There
is nothing worse than a woman in
her middle twenties dressing like a
debutante.
Awkward silence.
CASSIE
Shall we go, then?
GERTIE
Of course, of course. One thing I
learned after two trips to the
altar is that the gentlemen don't
like to be kept waiting. Julia,
Selina, I'll call again sometime
soon.
Cassie and Gertie leave the room. Malcolm turns to Selina.
MALCOLM
How are you acquainted with Mrs.
Covington?
She is—
SELINA
JULIA
(interrupting Selina)
My cousin.
Mrs. Thistlewaite enters the room.
MRS. THISTLEWAITE
Good morning, Mr. Malcolm. Why are
you standing? Please, take a seat.
MALCOLM
Thank you, Mrs. Thistlewaite, but I
just came to invite Miss Dalton to
go driving. Miss Dalton?
SELINA
(not very
enthusiastically)
Let me just get my hat.
Selina rises to leave and Julia gets up and follows her into
the hallway.
INT. THISTLEWAITE'S TOWNHOUSE - HALL - DAY
JULIA
(speaking in a loud
whisper)
Selina, do not tell Malcolm that
Gertie is your cousin. I convinced
him that she is related to me. Now
you will not fail that item on his
list.
SELINA
I thought that must be why you
claimed her. I could not imagine
you felt a sudden desire for her
kinship.
JULIA
Just do not mention anything to the
contrary to Malcolm.
Selina puts on her bonnet and checks her appearance in the
hallway mirror.
SELINA
(sarcastic)
I will not, Julia. I promise to be
everything he desires in a woman:
witty, humorous, serious, sober,
genteel, musical…all at the same
time.
Excellent!
JULIA
EXT. HYDE PARK - DAY
Malcolm and Selina walk in the park.
MALCOLM
You are very quiet this afternoon.
SELINA
I beg your pardon. The weather
today is quite lovely, is it not?
There is a clap of thunder. It looks like it is about to
rain.
MALCOLM
Please do not feel that you have to
make conversation. I much prefer
silence to those that ramble on
with nothing to say, like that Mrs.
Covington. She is quite a
character, is she not? I am glad I
am not courting Miss Thistlewaite.
SELINA
I beg your pardon?
mean by that?
What do you
MALCOLM
(surprised by Selina's
vehemence)
Nothing, really. I mean, it's
rather obvious, isn't it, that I
would want my future wife's
relations to possess a modicum of
gentility.
SELINA
And if they did not?
MALCOLM
I do not understand why you are
becoming so upset; it is a moot
point, after all. I am not
courting Miss Thistlewaite, I am
courting—
Malcolm pauses, aware all of a sudden he's said more than he
meant to say.
MALCOLM (CONT’D)
(softly)
Well, I think it's fairly obvious
who it is I am courting, isn't it?
SELINA
But if you were courting Julia, and
you had met Mrs. Covington, would
it affect your opinion of Julia?
MALCOLM
It would have to, would it not? I
mean, that is something you have to
consider when contemplating
marriage with someone.
Malcolm looks over at Selina, who is frowning.
MALCOLM (CONT’D)
Why do you look so grim? Do not
tell me you have a relation as
vulgar as Mrs. Covington?
SELINA
(with an ironic smile)
No, I would not tell you that.
MALCOLM
I am pleased to hear it.
There is another long silence, as Selina continues to look
unhappy and Malcolm studies Selina's expression, not sure
what is wrong.
MALCOLM (CONT’D)
Why did you come to London, Miss
Dalton?
Selina is startled by the question, then pauses to think it
over.
SELINA
Because I was lonely.
MALCOLM
That's interesting. I was lonely
before you came to London, too.
Selina looks at Malcolm, her frown gone, replaced by a smile.
MALCOLM (CONT’D)
I am having a house party at my
estate in Kent, and I would be
pleased if you would come.
SELINA
I am honoured by the invitation,
but I am a guest of the
Thistlewaites—
MALCOLM
I will invite them as well.
Cassie, of course.
And
SELINA
And your friend, Mr. Ossory?
MALCOLM
If you'd like. My mother is coming
to act as hostess. I thought
perhaps your parents might like to
come as well.
Thank you.
them.
SELINA
I shall write and ask
MALCOLM
If you give me their direction I
would be pleased to send an
invitation.
EXT. HADLEY HALL - DAY
A carriage turns down the long drive of a grand mansion,
driving through a landscaped park and past a lake.
INT. HORSE-DRAWN CARRIAGE – MOVING - DAY
Mrs. Thistlewaite sleeps in one corner of the carriage while
Julia and Selina look out the window.
JULIA
I cannot believe we are here!
Hadley Hall is famous.
SELINA
It certainly looks impressive.
JULIA
(nonchalantly)
I believe you said Mr. Ossory has
been invited?
SELINA
Yes, Mr. Malcolm told me he is on
the guest list.
JULIA
What a bother that man has become.
I will have to distract him or
he'll be sure to try and monopolize
you completely.
EXT. HADLEY HALL - DAY
The carriage
descends the
carriage. He
relaxed than
stops in front of the mansion and Malcolm
front steps to help the ladies from the
smiles when he sees Selina and appears more
he did in town.
MALCOLM
Welcome to my home.
Thank you.
SELINA
It is very beautiful.
Malcolm offers his arm to Selina and escorts her inside, with
Julia and Mrs. Thistlewaite following.
INT. HADLEY HALL - ENTRANCE HALL - DAY
It is intimidatingly grand. The ladies look around in awe. A
housekeeper, MRS. HOWARD, stands waiting at the end of the
hall.
MALCOLM
Mrs. Howard will show you to your
rooms. My mother is waiting to
meet you, but I thought you would
like to refresh yourselves before
joining her.
SELINA
That would be lovely.
The women start following Mrs. Howard from the room.
MALCOLM
Miss Dalton.
Selina turns to look back at Malcolm.
Yes?
SELINA
MALCOLM
(lowers his voice)
I am very happy you're here.
SELINA
I am very happy to be here as well.
She smiles at him and then hurries to catch up with the other
women.
INT. HADLEY HALL – DRAWING ROOM - DAY
Selina, Julia, Mrs. Thistlewaite and Malcolm are having tea
with LADY KILBOURNE (50s), Malcolm's mother. She is very
regal and elegant with excellent posture.
LADY KILBOURNE
My son tells me you were raised in
Sussex, Miss Dalton.
SELINA
(intimidated)
Yes, my lady.
LADY KILBOURNE
What part of Sussex?
Chailey.
SELINA
LADY KILBOURNE
And your father is still serving as
vicar there, I believe.
SELINA
Yes, my lady.
LADY KILBOURNE
And your mother? Are her people
from Sussex as well?
SELINA
Yes, my lady.
There is an awkward silence.
SELINA (CONT’D)
Her family's name is Kingswater.
LADY KILBOURNE
Kingswater. I am afraid I do not
know any Kingswaters.
There is another awkward silence before everybody takes a
simultaneous sip of tea.
The BUTLER enters the room to announce:
BUTLER
Mr. and Mrs. Dalton.
MR. and MRS. DALTON (40s) enter and smile shyly. Mrs. Dalton
is dressed much plainer than her hostess and is more matronly
than regal, but she and her husband both appear good-natured
and genteel.
INT. HADLEY HALL – DRAWING ROOM - NIGHT
Julia plays the pianoforte. Henry turns the pages for her
while looking in Selina's direction.
Cassie dozes in a corner.
Mrs. Dalton converses with Lady Kilbourne with Mr. Dalton,
Mr. Malcolm and Selina grouped around.
Mrs. Dalton turns from Lady Kilbourne to address a remark to
Selina.
MRS. DALTON
Oh, Selina, I forgot to ask you how
Mrs. Covington is. Did you call on
her as I asked?
(turning back to Lady
Kilbourne)
Mrs. Covington is the widow of my
cousin and lives in town.
Selina looks to see if Mr. Malcolm heard her mother's remark
and finds him staring directly at her. Their eyes meet before
Selina looks away in embarrassment.
SELINA
Yes, I did visit Mrs. Covington.
She paid a visit to me at the
Thistlewaite's town house, as well.
MRS. DALTON
Good, I am glad to hear it.
Conversation continues between Mrs. Dalton and Lady
Kilbourne, but the angle is on Selina, who looks down, too
embarrassed to raise her head.
MRS. DALTON (CONT’D)
Mrs. Covington is not really a
close connection, her husband was a
second cousin only, but she is a
widow. And Mr. Dalton and I have
always taught Selina to show
compassion to those in less
fortunate circumstances.
MALCOLM
(in a low tone)
Selina.
Selina raises her head to find that Malcolm has moved to sit
in the chair beside her.
SELINA
Mr. Malcolm, pray excuse me, I am
not feeling well—
Selina starts to rise from her chair, but Malcolm puts a hand
on her arm to restrain her. She sinks back into her seat.
Malcolm does not remove his hand.
MALCOLM
Selina, it does not matter to me
that Mrs. Covington is your cousin,
and I am sorry if I gave you that
impression.
SELINA
She is not actually my cousin…
Never mind. It is I who must
apologize, Mr. Malcolm. What must
you think of me?
MALCOLM
I think you must have been
concerned for my good opinion and
thought if you told the truth you'd
lose it. It is my fault, for I look
back on that occasion with shame. I
sounded dreadfully arrogant and I
have regretted it many times since.
SELINA
Even so, that was no excuse for me
to lie. The only thing I can say
in my defense is that I wanted to
tell you the truth, but that Julia…
At any rate, I did want to tell you
the truth.
MALCOLM
I believe you. Now, let's forget
this foolish incident. It does
neither of us good to harp on it.
Malcolm and Selina smile at each other. Malcolm realizes his
hand is still on Selina's arm and he slowly withdraws it.
INT. HADLEY HALL - SELINA'S GUEST CHAMBER- NIGHT
Selina is in her night clothes. She braids her hair, while
looking dreamily at her reflection in the mirror.
There is a KNOCK at her door, followed almost immediately by
Julia's entrance.
JULIA
Selina, may I come in?
Without waiting for a response, Julia closes the door behind
her, crosses the room, and sits in a chair near Selina.
JULIA (CONT’D)
I think it is time.
SELINA
If you think it is time for bed, I
can only agree, and wonder why it
is you're in my chamber instead of
your own.
JULIA
(impatiently)
No, I think it is time to show
Malcolm your list.
What list?
SELINA
I do not have a list.
JULIA
You know, we discussed all this
before, when you first came to
town. You are to allow Malcolm to
find a list that you've written,
except all the items will not be
checked. Then he will see what it
is like to be measured and found
wanting.
SELINA
Julia, I know that Malcolm hurt
your feelings and I am sorry. I
believe you two started out on the
wrong foot—
JULIA
Selina, what are you saying?
SELINA
I am saying that I do not intend to
take part in this, this deception.
I like Malcolm. I do not want to
hurt him.
Julia's eyes narrow and she folds her arms across her chest.
JULIA
So, now that you've seen Hadley
Hall, seen how rich he is, you
think you can get him to marry you,
is that it?
SELINA
No that is not it! I am not
interested in Mr. Malcolm because
of his possessions. I truly
lo—like him.
JULIA
(mimicking Selina)
So you lo-like him, do you? I
wonder if you'd lo-like him if he
was a poverty-stricken curate from
Yorkshire.
SELINA
Yes, I would.
Julia rises from her seat and begins to pace angrily.
JULIA
This is all very touching, but it
is not what was supposed to happen.
You agreed to help me.
SELINA
I agreed to think about it. Which I
did. And I do not feel Mr. Malcolm
deserves such treatment.
JULIA
And I? You think I deserved such
treatment?
SELINA
I do not think it was at all the
same.
JULIA
But it was! It was exactly the
same.
SELINA
Mr. Malcolm did not set out to
offend you, Julia. He had no idea
you would discover he had a list.
JULIA
But I did find out. He did offend
me!
SELINA
And have you never offended anyone?
It happens, Julia. Frequently. No
one wants a person incapable of
forgiveness for a friend.
JULIA
And I do not want a prosy
preacher's daughter for a friend.
Julia strides angrily to the door and leaves, slamming it
behind her with a resounding BANG.
INT. HADLEY HALL – DRAWING ROOM - NIGHT
Mr. Malcolm reads a book while his mother, Lady Kilbourne,
does needlework.
Both look up at the sound of the door slamming.
LADY KILBOURNE
What was that?
MALCOLM
It sounded as if someone slammed a
door.
LADY KILBOURNE
Probably that Miss Thistlewaite.
She looks the door-slammer type to
me.
There is a pause, while Lady Kilbourne makes a stitch.
LADY KILBOURNE (CONT’D)
Poor Mr. Ossory.
MALCOLM
Why do you say that?
LADY KILBOURNE
Miss Thistlewaite means to have
him. And she's the type who gets
her way. What surprises me is that
she did not set her cap for you.
MALCOLM
She did, at first.
lived, however.
It was short-
LADY KILBOURNE
What happened?
MALCOLM
(shrugs)
Nothing, really. I took her to the
opera and then did not call again.
It died a natural death.
LADY KILBOURNE
So you think. I doubt she'd forget
a rejection like that very quickly.
She's not enjoying taking second
place to your Miss Dalton.
MALCOLM
She is not my Miss Dalton yet.
LADY KILBOURNE
Yes, I know. I wish you would
hurry the business. You know how
much I detest entertaining.
MALCOLM
So you approve of Selina, Mother?
LADY KILBOURNE
Of course; though the more
appropriate question is whether her
father approves of me. Mr. Dalton
is so very worthy. If I had my wits
about me I'd persuade you against
marrying into such a family and
allow you to marry some silly,
ignorant girl by whom I would not
suffer in comparison.
(beat)
Someone like your sister-in-law.
MALCOLM
You would suffer no matter who I
married. You must realize by now
that in-laws were designed by God
to aid us in developing our
character.
LADY KILBOURNE
I do know it. And far be it for me
to question the Almighty. Mr.
Dalton would not approve.
INT. HADLEY HALL - BREAKFAST ROOM - DAY
Everyone is at the table when Selina enters the room, chooses
some food from the sideboard and joins them.
MALCOLM
We were just discussing the ball we
are planning to hold next week.
Miss Thistlewaite would like it to
be a masquerade. What is your
opinion?
Selina looks over at her father, who is frowning.
SELINA
I have never been to a masquerade—
JULIA
(interrupting Selina)
See there, Malcolm, you must make
it a masquerade. Selina has never
been to one.
MALCOLM
Would you enjoy that, Selina?
SELINA
(uncertainly)
I suppose so.
CASSIE
I detest masked balls. The costumes
are always uncomfortable.
JULIA
You can wear a domino.
CASSIE
That's even worse, dash it. Who
wants to wear a cloak all evening?
It's the middle of summer.
Selina turns to speak to her parents.
SELINA
(lowering her voice)
Is the masquerade acceptable to
you? I know you disapprove of such
entertainments.
MR. DALTON
You are right about my opinion of
masquerade balls, but your mother
reminded me that Mr. Malcolm is a
trustworthy gentleman. I am
confident he will not permit the
sort of behavior that is common at
these occasions in town.
MRS. DALTON
And it sounds like such fun!
EXT. HADLEY HALL – GROUNDS - DAY
Selina, Henry, Julia and Malcolm are on horseback. Selina
and Henry are riding side-by-side with Julia and Malcolm
following at a distance.
HENRY
So it appears it is to be a chess
match, after all.
Selina is confused for a moment and then his meaning becomes
clear to her.
SELINA
I am sorry, Mr. Ossory, it is just
that…
HENRY
I know, I know. My friend Malcolm
has cut me out.
SELINA
I am so sorry.
HENRY
It is entirely my own fault. I
arrived on the scene too late. I
could have met you anytime the past
three years if I had visited my
aunt while on leave as she
requested.
(beat)
To tell you the truth, I didn't
have much confidence in Aunt
Ossory's matchmaking ability. She
had dreadful eyesight, you know.
SELINA
I do know. When I served as her
companion I found her more than
once in conversation with the
umbrella stand, while under the
impression she was giving the
butler his orders.
HENRY
(laughs)
Well, then, you understand my
hesitation.
They ride in silence for a moment.
HENRY (CONT’D)
It is not too late for us to be
friends, however.
SELINA
I would like that very much indeed.
Selina!
JULIA (O.S.)
Mr. Ossory!
Selina and Henry look up to see Julia and Mr. Malcolm closing
the distance between them. They rein in their horses and
wait for the other two to catch up.
JULIA (CONT’D)
Mr. Malcolm and I cannot imagine
what you two find so intriguing.
HENRY
I beg your pardon, Miss
Thistlewaite, we had not intended
to be rude. Shall you and I ride
on together?
Julia and Henry urge their horses to a trot while Malcolm
pulls up beside Selina.
MALCOLM gestures toward the pair ahead.
MALCOLM
So do you think your friend Miss
Thistlewaite will make a match with
Henry?
SELINA
Mr. Ossory make a match with Julia?
I do not think he is interested in
her.
MALCOLM
I do not think so, either. I think
he is interested in you.
Selina lowers her gaze. There is a long pause.
MALCOLM (CONT’D)
Well? Is he interested in you?
SELINA
Mr. Ossory and I have agreed to
engage in a match
(she pauses for effect)
Of chess.
MALCOLM
And had he a different match in
mind?
SELINA
Perhaps. But I told him I was only
available for chess.
MALCOLM
Poor Henry.
SELINA
Would you have preferred that I
answer differently?
MALCOLM
I would have preferred that he go
jump in the lake.
SELINA
That is an extreme attitude toward
someone who is your friend.
MALCOLM
Oh, I do not really mean it. I
only felt that way when he was
making up to you. But now that I
know him to have been unsuccessful
in his pursuit, I no longer dislike
him.
SELINA
I am relieved to hear it, for I
like him very much.
MALCOLM
You had better not be too
enthusiastic with your praise, or I
might find myself despising him
again.
SELINA
What, am I to like no one but you?
MALCOLM
No, but you are to like me best.
Selina looks over at Malcolm. They smile at each other,
before Selina shyly looks away.
INT. HADLEY HALL – DINING ROOM - DAY
The members of the house party eat lunch.
LADY KILBOURNE
If anyone is still looking for a
costume for the masquerade, I
believe there are some in the
attic.
CASSIE
I should be able to find what I
need at the village dressmaker’s.
JULIA
Do you plan on going as a lady,
Cassie?
CASSIE
Of course not. A Greek.
HENRY
Any particular Greek?
CASSIE
(shrugs)
Any Greek will do. Plato, Socrates,
Julius Caesar.
SELINA
Julius Caesar was Roman.
CASSIE
Greek, Roman, it scarcely matters.
I just plan to wear a white robe
and some leaves over my ears. I
went to one of these blasted things
as Henry VIII once and almost
suffocated.
JULIA
What are you wearing, Selina?
SELINA
I have no idea. I was hoping to
receive inspiration when I visited
the attic.
MALCOLM
Why not go as your namesake?
SELINA
Whom do you mean?
MALCOLM
Selene, goddess of the moon.
SELINA
Cassie has already taken my
costume. He's going as a Greek.
CASSIE
I told you, I am not going as a
woman. I will be one of those
philosophical fellows like Plato.
Or Socrates.
MR. DALTON
(to his wife)
Lord Cassidy as one of history's
deepest thinkers. It quite boggles
the mind.
MRS. DALTON
(to Mr. Dalton)
Hush!
MALCOLM
(addressing Selina)
So will you go as Selene?
SELINA
I suppose I could. I thought if I
found something ready-made I would
use it, but I have no objection to
masquerading as a goddess.
MALCOLM
I only ask because if you go as
Selene, I intend to go as Endymion.
JULIA
Who is Endymion?
MALCOLM
He was the mortal love of Selene.
Selene begged Zeus to grant him
immortality in the form of eternal
slumber. According to the myth, she
then showered him with kisses every
night as he slept.
MRS. DALTON
How romantic!
JULIA
I would be happy to assist you with
your costume, Selina.
SELINA
(surprised)
Why, thank you, Julia.
Julia just nods in response, not meeting Selina's eyes.
INT. HADLEY HALL – LIBRARY - DAY
Malcolm and Selina look at an illustration in the book:
“Costumes of the Ancients.”
SELINA
I shall show this illustration to
the modiste. What does Endymion
wear?
MALCOLM
I will carry a staff, so that
everyone knows I am a shepherd, but
other than that, it scarcely
matters what I wear.
SELINA
Is that why you wanted to be
Endymion? So you would have such an
easy costume?
MALCOLM
I wanted us to have complementary
costumes, but I must confess that I
did not want to be uncomfortable
all evening, either.
SELINA
So I am to arrange my costume in
order that you can be comfortable?
I have been grossly misled. I
thought you were a romantic and now
I find that you are merely lazy.
MALCOLM
As befits Endymion.
SELINA
(laughing)
You are not too sleepy, I see. You
are quick-witted enough to offer
excuses for your conduct.
Julia enters the room.
JULIA
There you are Selina. Have you
found an illustration of your
costume? May I see it?
INT. DRESSMAKER'S SHOP - DAY
Julia and Selina are showing the illustration to a
dressmaker.
DRESSMAKER
I should have your dress ready for
a fitting on Tuesday, Miss Dalton.
SELINA
I will see you then.
EXT. DRESSMAKER'S SHOP - DAY
Julia and Selina are leaving when Julia stops suddenly.
JULIA
Oh, dear! I left my reticule in the
shop. You go ahead to the
milliner's. I shall only be a
moment.
Julia waits until Selina walks on and then goes back inside.
INT. HADLEY HALL - SELINA'S GUEST CHAMBER - NIGHT
Selina puts the finishing touches on her toilette for the
masquerade. She wears a Grecian style white gown with silver
cording and a headband with a silver crescent moon.
There is a KNOCK at the door. Julia enters, dressed as a
milkmaid.
JULIA
I wanted to see how your costume
turned out.
Julia looks carefully at Selina's outfit.
JULIA (CONT’D)
It came out quite well.
SELINA
Thank you, Julia.
lovely.
You look very
Selina puts on her mask. Julia continues to study Selina's
costume.
SELINA (CONT’D)
Shall we go down?
JULIA
Yes, of course.
INT. HADLEY HALL - CONTINUOUS
Julia and Selina descend the stairs then walk through rooms
that have been decorated for the ball, marveling at the
changes in them. Candles and fresh flowers are everywhere
and MUSIC can be heard coming from the ballroom.
INT. HADLEY HALL - BALLROOM - NIGHT
Selina enters the ballroom, becomes separated from Julia, and
bumps into a man dressed as a shepherd.
SELINA
I beg your pardon.
MALCOLM
It is I, a mere mortal, who should
beg pardon from the goddess Selene.
May I have the honour of this
dance?
Selina and Malcolm dance together, not speaking.
When they finish their dance, they stay for a moment in each
other's arms, oblivious to anything else.
They are interrupted by Julia.
JULIA
Selina, I need you to come with me
immediately.
SELINA
Please excuse me, Mr. Malcolm.
He nods, and Selena reluctantly allows herself to be pulled
away by Julia.
SELINA (CONT’D)
Where are we going? What is so
important?
JULIA
I need you to help me with my
costume. I think that something has
come undone.
SELINA
Couldn't you have called your maid?
I was having the loveliest time.
Isn't a masquerade the most
exciting affair you could imagine?
Quite.
JULIA
INT. HADLEY HALL - JULIA'S GUEST CHAMBER - NIGHT
Julia opens the door, motioning for Selina to precede her.
Selina walks into the darkened room and the door closes
behind her.
Julia?
SELINA
Selina walks back to the door and attempts to open it.
locked.
Julia?
It's
SELINA (CONT’D)
Julia!
Selina begins banging on the door.
INT. HADLEY HALL – GUEST CHAMBER - NIGHT
Julia rushes into a nearby room and pulls a dress out of the
wardrobe, an identical match of Selina's costume.
CUT TO:
Julia, dressed exactly like Selina, puts on a wig that is
styled the same as Selina's hairdo. She takes out a mask and
fits it over her face before looking at her reflection in the
mirror. She nods in satisfaction before leaving the room,
shutting the door behind her.
Selina can be heard beating on a nearby door, but the music
from the ballroom muffles the sound.
INT. HADLEY HALL - BALLROOM - NIGHT
Julia walks up to a servant; hands him a slip of paper.
JULIA
Give this to Mr. Malcolm
immediately.
INT. HADLEY HALL – BALLROOM - NIGHT
Malcolm stands talking to Henry when he is handed a slip of
paper by the servant. He reads the note.
MALCOLM
(smiling)
Wish me luck, old chap.
(MORE)
MALCOLM (CONT'D)
I have an appointment in the
library with a certain lady.
Hopefully when you see me next I'll
be betrothed.
HENRY
Good luck, Malcolm. Although I
don't think you'll need it.
INT. HADLEY HALL - JULIA'S GUEST CHAMBER - NIGHT
Selina lights a candle and looks around in frustration. She
sees another door that leads to an adjoining room. She tries
that door and, to her surprise, it’s unlocked. She walks
through the adjoining room and through another door into the
hallway.
INT. HADLEY HALL – LIBRARY - NIGHT
Julia, dressed as Selina, stands in a dark corner of the room
holding a piece of paper. Malcolm enters the room and walks
toward her.
MALCOLM
This reminds me of our first
meeting, except I was the one
holding a piece of paper in my
hand. Do you remember what you said
to me?
Julia shakes her head no.
MALCOLM (CONT’D)
How could you forget so quickly? I
remember every word we've ever
exchanged. I told you that hope was
a futile thing and you disagreed
with me. You said you hoped I
obtained what I was looking for.
You had little idea that it was you
I was searching for.
Malcolm reaches for Julia's empty hand.
MALCOLM (CONT’D)
I wanted to wait, at least until
the end of the house party, to be
absolutely sure of my feelings. But
I do not think I could become any
more convinced than I am now.
Selina, would you do me the honour
of becoming my wife?
JULIA
(whispering)
I am sorry, I cannot.
What?
MALCOLM
JULIA
I cannot marry you.
MALCOLM
I don’t understand. I thought you
returned my feelings.
JULIA
I will not deny that I am fond of
you, but I can’t marry you. You
see, I have a list.
Julia hands him the piece of paper she was holding, and
Malcolm walks over to the light to read it.
CU of list. All of the items are checked but one: “Does not
make others feel as if they cannot live up to an impossible
standard.”
Malcolm looks up from the list to see Julia walking hurriedly
from the room.
Selina!
MALCOLM
Wait!
INT. HADLEY HALL – BALLROOM - NIGHT
Selina runs into the ballroom, searching the crowd for Julia.
Henry sees her and walks over to where she is standing.
HENRY
Selina, I thought you were in the
library with Malcolm.
SELINA
(distractedly)
What?
HENRY
It is probably none of my affair,
but I was there when Malcolm
received your note, so he told me
about your appointment with him in
the library.
SELINA
I made no appointment with Mr.
Malcolm—
Selina suddenly realizes where Julia is.
SELINA (CONT’D)
Please excuse me, Mr. Ossory.
Selina races down the hall toward the library, with Henry
following.
HENRY
Selina, is everything all right?
INT. HADLEY HALL – HALLWAY - NIGHT
Selina and Henry are a few feet from the library door when a
woman in an exact replica of Selena's costume comes running
out of the library into the hallway. She stops abruptly when
she sees Henry and Selina.
There is a shocked silence while Henry looks from one Selene
to another, and Selina and Julia stare at each other.
HENRY
Miss Thistlewaite, is that you?
What are you doing dressed like
Selena?
SELINA
Julia! What is the meaning of this?
Julia tries to edge past them but Henry restrains her,
putting his hand on her shoulder.
HENRY
I think you had best explain what
is going on, Miss Thistlewaite.
MALCOLM (O.S.)
Selina, wait!
Malcolm rushes into the hall. He stops abruptly, surprised
at the sight of the two Selenes.
MALCOLM (CONT’D)
What is this?
HENRY
That is what we are waiting for
Miss Thistlewaite to explain.
MALCOLM
Miss Thistlewaite?
Malcolm looks more closely at the other Selene.
MALCOLM (CONT’D)
Perhaps we should return to the
library.
INT. HADLEY HALL – LIBRARY - NIGHT
Malcolm lights some more candles, removes his mask, and turns
to address Julia.
MALCOLM
So it was you who refused my offer
just now, I assume.
SELINA
What? Julia, how could you?
Julia looks around to see everyone staring at her in
disapproval. She rips off her mask and looks as if she is
about to cry.
HENRY
Well, Miss Thistlewaite?
JULIA
It is his own fault.
Julia indicates Malcolm with a nod of her head.
JULIA (CONT’D) (CONT’D)
He spurned me publicly, all because
I didn't meet a qualification on
that list of his. So I decided
that he would know how it felt to
be judged and found wanting. I
introduced him to Selina—
MALCOLM
Selina! Don't tell me you played a
part in this?
SELINA
No, of course not. Julia wanted me
to participate, but I refused.
MALCOLM
But you knew about the list?
SELINA
Yes, though you cannot think—
MALCOLM
When did you find out about it?
SELINA
Well, the day I came to town Julia
mentioned it to me, but Malcolm,
you cannot think—
MALCOLM
Would you please stop
what I can and cannot
would you remove that
The time for pretense
telling me
think? And
blasted mask?
is over.
SELINA
I have never engaged in any
pretense!
MALCOLM
So you did not lie to me and tell
me that Mrs. Covington was not your
cousin? Good God, what a fool I’ve
been! I should have seen it then.
Selina walks over to Malcolm and places a hand on his arm.
SELINA
Malcolm, please hear me out before
you condemn me.
MALCOLM
And why should I believe anything
you say? It appears you have been
deceiving me the entire time.
Selina looks at Malcolm in shock, before turning away.
HENRY
Jeremy, perhaps you should listen
to what Selina has to say.
MALCOLM
I hardly think you're the
appropriate person to counsel me;
it is obvious she's beguiled you as
well. Now if you would all excuse
me, I am in the middle of hosting a
ball.
Malcolm leaves the room and Selina sinks into a chair. Julia
runs over to her side.
JULIA
I tried to tell you what he is
like! Can’t you see how arrogant he
is?
Selina gets up and walks to the door.
Selina?
JULIA (CONT’D)
SELINA
Pray excuse me.
Selina leaves the room. Julia finds herself facing Henry.
HENRY
Well, Miss Thistlewaite. I suppose
you are proud of your behavior.
JULIA
I thought I would be, but
instead...I feel absolutely
dreadful.
HENRY
You should. You have ruined two
people's lives and for what? Some
silly grudge you had against
Malcolm.
JULIA
It was silly, was it not? It is
odd, it felt very serious at the
time.
Julia starts sniffling, before burying her face in Henry’s
chest. He looks uncomfortable but awkwardly pats her on the
shoulder.
HENRY
There, there. Everything will be
all right.
After a moment she stops crying. Her eyes open and widen as
she realizes she's in Henry's arms.
She moves closer into his embrace.
Henry's hand that was patting her shoulder stops its awkward
pats and slides down her back, pressing her closer.
Then he quickly pulls away.
HENRY (CONT’D)
I beg your pardon, Miss
Thistlewaite, I hope you didn't
think I...I hope you realize I have
the utmost respect for you and
would never take advantage of the
situation.
JULIA
You do? I mean, you wouldn't?
They look at each other a moment in silence. Henry suddenly
notices how attractive Julia is.
He looks away; clears his throat.
HENRY
I think it only proper that we
return to the ballroom.
Julia nods and backs away from him.
JULIA
You go ahead. I will just stay here
and meditate on all my faults.
Henry starts to leave, but then pauses on his way out of the
room to look back at a very pathetic Julia.
HENRY
If you feel up to it
later...perhaps we could have a
dance together?
JULIA
That would be lovely.
They smile at each other.
INT. HADLEY HALL - SELINA'S GUEST CHAMBER - NIGHT
Selina lies face down on her bed. There is a KNOCK at the
door.
Selina?
JULIA (O.S.)
SELINA
Please just go away.
Julia ignores Selina, opens the door and walks over to the
bed. Selina does not move.
SELINA (CONT’D)
If you are wondering whether to
lock me in my room, I assure you, I
do not intend on going down again
tonight. Feel free to masquerade as
me until tomorrow, if you choose.
JULIA
Of course I don’t plan to lock you
in your room...Selina, I cannot
tell you how sorry I am.
SELINA
Don’t bother. I do not want to
hear it anyway.
JULIA
You have every right to despise me;
I despise myself. I should have
listened to you from the first.
But I was so jealous of you.
Selina turns to face Julia, curious in spite of her anger.
SELINA
What are you talking about? You
did this to revenge yourself on Mr.
Malcolm.
JULIA
I don't know why I did it.
Initially I wanted to humiliate
Malcolm, but later I wanted to ruin
your chances with him as well. I
could not bear that you were
succeeding where I failed.
SELINA
(sighs)
I suppose it is not really
important why you did it; ‘tis too
late to change matters now.
JULIA
(oblivious)
Then you'll forgive me?
SELINA
I’ll do whatever you want if only
you’ll leave.
Julia jumps onto the bed beside Selina.
JULIA
No, we have to make a plan.
Selina moans and bangs her head lightly against the bed post.
SELINA
Why won't you leave me to dwell on
my misery in peace?
JULIA
Because I do not want you to be
miserable. I want you to be happy.
SELINA
Then it looks as if we are both
destined for disappointment.
JULIA
If Malcolm truly loves you he is
bound to forgive you once he knows
the whole truth. And that is what
I plan to tell him.
SELINA
You forget that he thinks us both
liars and deceivers. He will never
believe you.
Julia looks stumped for a moment, then triumphant.
JULIA
Cassie! Cassie will tell him.
Malcolm will believe Cassie.
SELINA
You are actually suggesting that I
entrust my future happiness to
Cassie?
JULIA
Yes, that is what I am suggesting,
though I can hardly believe it
myself.
INT. HADLEY HALL - BALLROOM - NIGHT
Julia, dressed again as a milkmaid, crosses over to where
Cassie is standing. He is wearing what appears to be a bed
sheet, tied over one shoulder.
JULIA
Cassie, I need to speak with you.
CASSIE
You know, Julia, I do not
understand why you ladies complain
about having to wear dresses. This
is quite a bit more comfortable
than knee breeches, I can tell you.
And when I walk there is the most
refreshing breeze…
JULIA
Cassie! I did not come here to
discuss with you the advantages of
feminine attire! I need to talk to
you about Malcolm and Selina.
CASSIE
Ah, I see. You've finally caught on
to the fact that all your scheming
was for nothing. Well, I knew that
all along. I could tell Malcolm and
Selina were perfectly suited to
each other.
(chuckles)
I imagine that stings a
bit. You thought to humiliate
Malcolm, and you end up presenting
him with the perfect wife on a
silver platter.
JULIA
Well, Cassie, though it pains me to
admit it, I have to concede that
you were right and I was...
She stops. She can't say it.
JULIA (CONT’D)
Not entirely right?
Cassie folds his arms over his chest.
JULIA (CONT’D)
Fine! I was wrong. Furthermore, I
have muddled things royally and I
really need your help.
CASSIE
(sighing heavily)
What did you do now?
CUT TO:
Cassie walks through the ballroom searching for Malcolm, and
finds him surrounded by a bevy of beauties who are
fluttering their fans and lashes at him. Cassie whispers
something in his ear before pulling him away from his
admirers.
INT. LIBRARY, HADLEY HALL - NIGHT
Malcolm sits behind his desk while Cassie paces in front of
him.
MALCOLM
I do not understand why you are
telling me this, Cassie.
CASSIE
I am trying to make you understand
it is not Selina's fault, it is
Julia's. Selina was against the
charade from the start. I think it
should be obvious that Julia is the
one who wished to see you
humiliated, not Selina.
MALCOLM
I understand all that, but the fact
remains that Selina used
information she had obtained from
you about what I was seeking in a
wife to become that woman. I do
not even know her true character.
CASSIE
That is not true! She barely paid
any attention to what Julia and I
said. If she had listened to us,
she probably wouldn't have
attracted your notice at all.
MALCOLM
So what you are saying is that she
is smarter than you and Julia.
CASSIE
No, that is not what I am saying.
That is, she is most likely smarter
than Julia and I, but…
Cassie runs a hand through his hair in agitation, knocking
the leaves above his ears askew.
CASSIE (CONT’D)
Dash it, you're twisting my words
all around. What I am trying to say
is that Selina is the right woman
for you, Malcolm, and if you ruin
this opportunity you will regret it
for the rest of your life.
MALCOLM
I appreciate your concern, but
nowhere on my now infamous list
does it specify deception, lying,
or scheming. I am no longer
interested in Miss Dalton, and can
only regret that I ever fell victim
to her little game.
Malcolm gets up from his desk and walks to the door.
MALCOLM (CONT’D)
Please excuse me. I promised Miss
Redmund the next dance.
Malcolm leaves the room.
CASSIE
I hope you trip and break your
bloody stiff neck.
INT. HADLEY HALL – DRAWING ROOM - NEW DAY
Lady Kilbourne, Mrs. Thistlewaite, and Mr. and Mrs. Dalton
are playing cards. Cassie, Julia, and Henry sit in the
corner of the room watching Selina pretend to read her book
while Malcolm writes letters.
JULIA
(softly)
We must do something.
CASSIE
I think that is how this whole
debacle began.
Julia starts to make an angry reply to Cassie, but Henry
shakes his head at her. She's quiet for a moment.
JULIA
Henry, what if you were to pretend
to woo Selina? I think Malcolm was
jealous of you before. It might
work again.
HENRY
I don't think so, Julia.
CASSIE
Why don't you ask me to woo Selina?
I'd be happy to.
JULIA
Don't be absurd, Cassie. We're
trying to make Malcolm jealous, not
nauseous.
(addressing Henry)
You would only have to pretend,
Henry.
HENRY
I prefer to let them work out
matters for themselves.
JULIA
Well, they don't appear to be doing
a very good job of it.
Julia's POV:
Selina looks over the top of her book at Malcolm. His
expression is stern and unyielding.
INT. HADLEY HALL – CONSERVATORY - DAY
Selina is walking through rows of potted trees, when she
turns a corner and is surprised to see Malcolm standing
there.
MALCOLM
I suppose I have you to thank for
this.
He holds out a slip of paper.
SELINA
I beg your pardon?
MALCOLM
If you thought to arrange a
compromising situation, I must say
I had believed you a great deal
cleverer than this. If anyone
found us alone together, it is
hardly a situation that would
warrant a marriage proposal.
(MORE)
MALCOLM (CONT'D)
Or perhaps you planned to throw
yourself into my arms when given a
signal by your accomplice. Who is
it, by the way? Julia?
SELINA
I have no idea what you are talking
about. I received an invitation to
tour the conservatory. I assumed
it to be a group tour. I certainly
did not plan on meeting you here.
MALCOLM
And I suppose it is a coincidence
that I received a note as well.
However, mine spouted some nonsense
about ‘a discussion that will
promise great future benefit.' It
was quite melodramatic, now that I
think on it.
SELINA
Then I am surprised you bothered to
come.
MALCOLM
(shrugs)
My curiosity was piqued.
SELINA
If you are so frightened of my
treacherous schemes, why don't you
just leave?
I will.
MALCOLM
He makes no move to do so.
SELINA
I am glad to hear it.
MALCOLM
Are you remaining here?
SELINA
No, I shall leave as well. The
conservatory has lost much of its
charm for me.
Selina turns and quickly walks back the way she came, with
Malcolm following her. She reaches the door, tries to open
it, and it won't budge. She tries again. No success.
MALCOLM
What are you doing?
Selina makes one last desperate attempt to open the door.
SELINA
The door appears to be stuck.
must be the humidity.
It
MALCOLM
Let me try.
He pushes her aside and impatiently tries the handle.
cannot open it either. He turns to look at Selina.
He
MALCOLM (CONT’D)
It is certainly stuck, but I rather
doubt it is the humidity.
SELINA
What do you think it could be?
Malcolm doesn't reply, looking accusingly at Selina.
SELINA (CONT’D)
You arrogant, conceited coxcomb!
would rather marry the gardener!
I
MALCOLM
I’ll be sure to inform Thompson of
your regard.
Selina pushes Malcolm out of the way and starts rattling and
banging on the door. Realizing it's useless; she pushes past
Malcolm and walks regally back to a stone bench and sits. He
follows her.
MALCOLM (CONT’D)
What are you doing?
SELINA
I am waiting for whoever locked us
in to return, and I'd rather do so
sitting, if you don't mind.
MALCOLM
Is there a certain time they are
scheduled to return?
He sits down on a bench opposite her.
For
rid
had
not
and
the
SELINA
the last time, would you please
yourself of the notion that I
anything to do with this. I do
enjoy being forcibly confined,
I am getting rather tired of
experience.
MALCOLM
I don’t understand. Have you been
incarcerated for a crime in the
past?
SELINA
Of course not. Julia locked me in
her room the night of the
masquerade so that she could pose
as me. If I find she is behind
this as well, I will not be so
quick to forgive her a second time.
MALCOLM
I must say, you do seem to have
rather unfortunate taste in
friends.
Selina gives Malcolm a look brimming with significance.
SELINA
So I have recently discovered.
Silence. Malcolm is sprawled across his bench, while Selina
sits across from him, upright and tense.
DISSOLVE TO:
Malcolm checks his watch.
DISSOLVE TO:
Beads of sweat form on Malcolm's forehead and he wipes it
with his handkerchief. It’s obvious it is becoming extremely
hot in the conservatory.
DISSOLVE TO:
Selina's posture beginning to droop, her face shiny and
flushed.
DISSOLVE TO:
Malcolm checks his watch again.
MALCOLM
I had determined not to remove any
clothing for fear of how that might
be construed, but I am afraid I
must remove my jacket if I am to
remain conscious. Do I have your
permission?
Selina nods, still angry. She watches as Malcolm shrugs out
of his tight-fitting jacket, then his waistcoat, then his
cravat. A trickle of sweat runs down his neck to disappear
under his shirt.
Selina begins to fan herself with her hand, then notices
she's wearing gloves. She removes those, with Malcolm
watching her as attentively as she watched him. He jumps up
from his bench and begins pacing.
MALCOLM (CONT’D)
You do not look comfortable, Miss
Dalton.
His voice is a little raspy and he clears his throat.
MALCOLM (CONT’D)
Are you suffering from the heat,
perchance?
SELINA
(speaking almost in a
whisper)
It is most dreadfully hot.
MALCOLM
There is a fountain around here
somewhere. Perhaps if we were to
rest our feet in the water it would
have a cooling effect on the rest
of our—that is, it would cool us
down. If you would follow me?
Selina follows him to another part of the conservatory, where
a shallow granite fountain bubbles. They sit on the
fountain's edge and remove their shoes. Malcolm rolls up his
pants. Selina hesitates..
SELINA
If you would just turn your head
for a moment…
MALCOLM
Oh, of course.
He turns his back and Selina removes her stockings.
SELINA
I am finished.
Malcolm turns and he and Selina step into the fountain and
sit on the narrow ledge. Selina reaches one hand into the
water, wets it, and then presses it to her face. Malcolm
dips his handkerchief into the water and inches closer to
Selina.
If I may?
MALCOLM
He's holding his wet handkerchief out. She nods, and he
begins tenderly wiping her face with his handkerchief. She
closes her eyes.
The handkerchief begins to travel down her neck and her eyes
open quickly. She and Malcolm look at each other, his hand
resting at the base of her throat, the only sound their
quickened breathing and the bubbling fountain.
Then he kisses her.
It's a tentative kiss at first, but then she lets go of her
skirts and puts her arms around his neck. Their position on
the edge of the fountain doesn't allow them to fully embrace,
so Malcolm slides off the edge, into the fountain, bringing
Selina with him.
They are on their knees in the shallow fountain, kissing, and
then Malcolm lowers Selina into the water. She's submerged
up to her waist, but he holds her head out of the water,
kissing her cheek, her chin, her neck…
Until someone CLEARS THEIR THROAT off camera.
Malcolm and Selina both turn their heads, but otherwise do
not change their position.
MALCOLM AND SELINA'S POV:
Lady Kilbourne, Mr. and Mrs. Dalton, Cassie, Julia, and Henry
are staring at them with varying expressions of shock,
embarrassment, amusement and, in Cassie's case, prurient
interest on their faces. Cassie removes his quizzing glass
from a pocket and applies it to one eye for a better look.
ANGLE ON MALCOLM AND SELINA
Malcolm and Selina are staring back at their horrified
audience. The moment seems frozen in time, before Malcolm
finally comes to his senses and releases his hold on Selina,
who without his support nearly goes under water.
Malcolm ignores this, turning instead to address his mother,
who is at the front of the group and who looks merely
interested rather than horrified.
MALCOLM (CONT’D)
Madam, I assure you, this is not
what it seems.
LADY KILBOURNE
(ignoring Malcolm)
Lord Cassidy, if you're quite
through ogling Selina, could you
ask Thompson to bring some towels
from the house?
Cassie reluctantly leaves, looking back at Selina as he does
so. Selina, who is now sitting upright in the fountain,
notices the direction of his gaze and looks down at her
dress; it clings to her form a little too tightly. She
quickly plops back down in the water.
LADY KILBOURNE (CONT’D)
Tell me, Jeremy, if this is not
what it seems, what is it, exactly?
MALCOLM
Selina and I were locked in the
conservatory, which became
dangerously warm. Fearing for our
safety, we took refuge in this
fountain…
Malcolm pauses in his explanation as if realizing how
ridiculous it sounds. He sighs.
MALCOLM (CONT’D)
Miss Dalton and I would like to
announce our engagement.
Splendid.
seemed.
LADY KILBOURNE
That is exactly what it
Lady Kilbourne turns to address the rest of the audience, who
have maintained their shocked silence.
LADY KILBOURNE (CONT’D)
I think that I should remain behind
with Jeremy and Selina while the
rest of you continue your tour of
the conservatory. You really must
see the Orangery.
INT. HADLEY HALL – HALLWAY - DAY
Mrs. Dalton approaches Selina's door just as it opens to
reveal a MAID, carrying Selina's wet dress. Mrs. Dalton
moves aside to let the maid pass.
INT. HADLEY HALL - SELINA'S GUEST CHAMBER - DAY
Mrs. Dalton enters to find Selina seated at the vanity
brushing her damp hair.
MRS. DALTON
Selina, my dear, what happened?
SELINA
Oh, Mama, I have never been so
embarrassed in my life.
MRS. DALTON
Of course you must be, but is it
true you are engaged to Mr.
Malcolm?
SELINA
If I am, I do not want to be. I
know that he believes I engineered
the entire thing. As if I would
want to be observed thus by my
family and practically all of my
acquaintance. I do not think I can
face any of them again.
MRS. DALTON
Well, I must admit I was rather
startled to see you in a… fountain
with Mr. Malcolm, but if he is
willing to marry you, then it will
make everything right.
(beat)
Of course, there is no question he
will do the honourable thing. It
would be unthinkable of him to
refuse. Your reputation would be in
tatters.
SELINA
Mama, I do not find this kind of
talk very encouraging.
Selina's mother pats her on the hand, and there is a
sympathetic silence until Mrs. Dalton's curiosity overcomes
her.
MRS. DALTON
Selina, how did you come to be in a
fountain, of all places?
SELINA
It was so very hot, it seemed a
good idea at the time, oh, I don't
know!
Selina throws herself on the bed, burying her face in a
pillow.
SELINA (CONT’D)
(her voice muffled)
Please give my excuses at dinner.
MRS. DALTON
Nonsense. You are engaged to the
honourable Jeremy Malcolm of Hadley
Hall, Kent. Where he chooses to
embrace you is no one's affair.
There is no need to hide your head
in a pillow. I think you should
come down to tea.
SELINA
I am definitely not coming to tea.
There is a knock at the door.
the pillow.
Yes?
Selina raises her head from
SELINA (CONT’D)
The door opens to reveal the maid.
MAID
Mr. Malcolm requests your presence
in the library, miss.
SELINA
Tell him I have caught a horrible
chillMRS. DALTON
(interrupts)
Tell him she will be down directly.
INT. HADLEY HALL – LIBRARY - DAY
Selina pauses on the threshold of the library, observing
Malcolm as he looks out a window, his back to her. As she
hesitates in the doorway he turns and sees her.
He looks as if he's about to smile, but then his features
grow stern. He walks over to his desk.
MALCOLM
Miss Dalton, please come in.
Selina's expression changes as well, from hope to
resignation. She takes a seat in front of Malcolm's desk.
MALCOLM (CONT’D)
I have spoken to your father and he
has consented to our engagement.
So we should discuss when and where
you would like to hold the
ceremony.
SELINA
You mean to go through with this?
MALCOLM
I cannot in honour do anything
else. You have been hopelessly
compromised and, as a gentleman, I
must redeem your reputation.
He leans back in his chair, smiling at Selina.
pleasant smile.
MALCOLM (CONT’D)
You are to be congratulated, Miss
Dalton. I have avoided many
attempts to entrap me into
marriage, but never have I met
someone with methods as original as
yours.
SELINA
So you still believe I planned the
events of this afternoon?
MALCOLM
It is entirely too coincidental
that we should have been locked in
the conservatory, and then the
entire house party would have felt
compelled to tour that same
conservatory one hour later,
observing us in a compromising
position.
SELINA
And I suppose I am to be blamed for
the position we were found in as
well?
It is not a
Malcolm's gaze drops from Selina's challenging one and he
looks embarrassed.
MALCOLM
I must admit you are not entirely
to blame. If I had been stronger,
the entire incident could have been
avoided. But I have never denied
that I find you…attractive, and I
am just a man, after all.
There is a moment of tense silence, finally broken by Selina.
SELINA
So I am expected to marry a man who
will resent me the rest of his life
for forcing an unwanted marriage on
him?
MALCOLM
(returning to his previous
formal demeanor)
I would of course be obliged to
overlook your unfortunate past if
we are to be comfortable together.
SELINA
How generous of you. And I suppose
I would be forced to assume an
attitude of humble gratitude for
your forbearance.
MALCOLM
You may assume whatever attitude
you please, as long as there is a
modicum of politeness and civility
between us.
SELINA
(her voice rising)
Politeness? Civility? This is
what you desire in a marriage?
MALCOLM
It is true that I had originally
hoped for more, but due to the
unfortunate circumstances of our
betrothal, I know I must content
myself with less.
SELINA
Well, I know no such thing. I
would never be content to marry a
man who holds such a low opinion of
me. A man who believes I conspired
to entrap him and would never let
me forget it for the rest of our
lives together. I thank you, sir,
for your kind offer, but I am
afraid I must refuse.
MALCOLM
Come, Selina, you know you cannot
refuse. Too many people observed
us this afternoon. Your reputation
would never recover.
SELINA
I do not care if all of England
observed us this afternoon, I would
still not marry you.
Selina jumps up from her chair.
SELINA (CONT’D)
You, sir, are the most insufferably
arrogant man it has ever been my
misfortune to know. I thought
Julia was wrong in her scheme to
humble you, but now I find myself
wishing I had taken a more active
part! Goodbye, Mr. Malcolm. I wish
you and your list all the happiness
in the world.
Selina…
MALCOLM
Selina moves for the door. Malcolm jumps up from his desk,
blocking her exit.
MALCOLM (CONT’D)
Selina, be reasonable. If you leave
and we are not engaged, people are
bound to think I behaved
dishonourably toward you. You will
be ruined in the eyes of the world,
and no longer accepted in polite
society.
SELINA
I’ve had quite enough of “polite
society”, thank you!
(MORE)
SELINA (CONT'D)
My answer remains the same. Now
please let me pass.
Malcolm thinks for a moment.
MALCOLM
Fine. You refuse to marry me. But
what if you stay on for a few more
days and we enter into a temporary
engagement? Then, a few weeks from
now, we can say that you jilted me.
That should salvage your reputation
to some extent.
SELINA
Or even enhance it. I’ll go down in
history as the only woman to have
refused you.
Beat.
SELINA (CONT’D)
So you are saying we will only have
to enter an engagement for a few
days?
MALCOLM
Yes, for the last three days of the
house party. Will you do so?
SELINA
(resigned)
I suppose.
MALCOLM
Good. And you will behave as if we
are engaged?
SELINA
I will not deny it if asked, but
please do not expect me to play the
adoring fiancée.
MALCOLM
Of course not. However, if you
could behave as if you do not find
me utterly repulsive, it may make
our engagement a little more
believable.
SELINA
(feigning innocence)
But I thought you could not abide
deception? Surely you would not
want me to prevaricate?
Selina steps closer to the door, again trying to leave, but
Malcolm still blocks the exit.
SELINA (CONT’D)
If you would please allow me to
pass.
There's a tense moment, as they are standing extremely close.
Malcolm's head lowers a little so their faces are even
closer.
Then he steps aside.
Selina leaves.
Malcolm walks over to the fireplace.
MALCOLM
Damn and blast!
LADY KILBOURNE (O.S.)
You do not sound like a man who has
just become happily engaged.
Malcolm turns and sees his mother standing in the library
doorway. She walks into the room.
MALCOLM
That is because I am not happily
engaged. Selina refused me. I could
only get her to agree to a
temporary betrothal, until the end
of the house party.
Lady Kilbourne seats herself and then sighs wearily, shaking
her head.
LADY KILBOURNE
You have ruined things, haven't you
Jeremy? And after all my efforts.
It was a very warm afternoon to
arrange a tour of the conservatory.
Malcolm has not been paying close attention, so there is a
pause as he struggles to understand his mother's words.
MALCOLM
What did you just say?
LADY KILBOURNE
I am saying that I arranged for a
tour of the conservatory. At three
o'clock. I assumed that would give
the two of you enough time alone
together to come to some sort of an
agreement. However, even I was
surprised to find you cavorting in
the fountain.
Malcolm is standing with his mouth open, still not able to
comprehend what he's just heard.
MALCOLM
Are you telling me that you
arranged the events of this
afternoon?
LADY KILBOURNE
I have already told you so. Twice,
I believe.
MALCOLM
Why did you not tell me this
earlier?
LADY KILBOURNE
I thought I'd give you a chance to
clean up. If I'd known you were in
such a great hurry to bungle
things, you can be assured I would
not have exercised such
forbearance.
Malcolm does not reply, but drops into his desk chair.
mother watches him for a moment.
LADY KILBOURNE (CONT’D)
What did you do to upset Selina so?
MALCOLM
Oh, nothing too serious. I merely
accused her of arranging our
incarceration in the conservatory
so that she could entrap me into
marriage.
LADY KILBOURNE
I must say, Jeremy, I am quite
disappointed in you.
Mother-
MALCOLM
His
Lady Kilbourne holds up a hand, motioning him to silence.
LADY KILBOURNE
Hear me out, please. I'm well
aware that you have a list. When I
first learned of it I was concerned
you had become arrogant and
judgmental; thinking yourself
better than everyone else. But now
I've come to realize that your list
is in the nature of a shield. So
many women have pursued you for
your fortune that you did not want
to give your heart to a woman who
might prove unworthy. And I think
that also accounts for your
vehemence toward Selina when you
thought you had been tricked, after
all.
MALCOLM
I realize now, of course, that
Selina is blameless in this latest
affair, but I'm still not convinced
she did not set out to entrap me.
LADY KILBOURNE
Are you really such a poor judge of
character? I have never met so
sincere a young lady as Selina
Dalton. Her only fault in this
affair lies in her association with
Julia Thistlewaite. Now she's a
schemer if ever there was one.
MALCOLM
I was just so worried that I was
allowing her to make a fool of me.
I wanted to be sure I was allowing
my head to rule me, and not my
heart.
Lady Kilbourne walks over to where her son sits.
LADY KILBOURNE
I know that it is difficult to let
someone past the guard you've put
around your heart, but unless you
do so you're in danger of losing
Selina altogether. Love cannot be
planned so carefully, my dear. It
will stir things up a bit. That is
part of its charm.
Lady Kilbourne smooths her son's hair off of his forehead.
LADY KILBOURNE (CONT’D)
Now, I'd better go apologize to
Selina for the mishap with the
conservatory door. I imagine you
have some apologies to make as
well.
MALCOLM
I will try to talk to her tonight.
Good.
LADY KILBOURNE
She cocks her head to the side, observing her son's face.
He's frowning.
LADY KILBOURNE(CONT'D)
There's no need to look so
apprehensive. She will not eat you.
MALCOLM
You haven't seen her in a temper.
She's a fearsome sight.
(grins)
And more beautiful than ever.
INT. HADLEY HALL - SELINA'S GUEST CHAMBER - LATER
Selina is putting on her jewelry,
the door and Julia enters.
when there is a knock at
JULIA
Selina, are you ready to go down?
Almost.
SELINA
Selina attempts to fasten the clasp on her necklace. Julia
goes over to help her.
JULIA
I am so glad you and Malcolm have
reconciled. I was absolutely
consumed with guilt, but now I can
be happy again.
SELINA
I am overjoyed that you no longer
have me on your conscience.
JULIA
I must say, I am quite pleased with
the way things turned out. I had
thought at first that I may have
ruined your prospects, but now I
think you have reason to be
grateful to me.
SELINA
Before you begin congratulating
yourself too enthusiastically, you
should know that Malcolm and I are
only pretending to be engaged until
the house party ends, at which time
I plan to jilt him.
Selina smiles slightly at her reflection in the mirror.
SELINA (CONT’D)
You know, I think that is the only
part of this whole business that I
will enjoy.
JULIA
What do you mean, pretending to be
engaged? Why would you pretend?
You appeared to be getting along
rather well when I saw you together
in the fountain.
SELINA
Yes, well, that is what finally
decided me against Malcolm. He had
the gall to suggest that I arranged
the afternoon's events in order to
compromise him.
Did you?
JULIA
SELINA
Of course I did not!
Kilbourne did.
Lady
JULIA
Really? I would have never
suspected her. I had wondered if
Cassie was behind it, but it was
executed so well I had to discount
him immediately. If he had planned
it, he would have ended up in the
fountain.
Selina starts giggling, to her own surprise.
SELINA
Oh, why did I have to fall in love
with such a man! He's so
infuriating!
JULIA
I'm sure I cannot say. Then again,
I would have never expected to fall
in love with someone like Henry.
He's so…
(wrinkling her nose)
nice.
INT. HADLEY HALL – DRAWING ROOM - NIGHT
Lady Kilbourne, Mrs. Thistlewaite, and Mr. and Mrs. Dalton
are playing cards.
Cassie, Julia, and Henry are sitting in one corner of the
room watching Selina and Malcolm who are sitting side by
side.
CASSIE
(to Julia)
They do not appear very happy, for
a newly engaged couple.
JULIA
(whispering)
The engagement is just for
propriety's sake. They are not
truly engaged.
CASSIE
Why, that scoundrel..
Shh!
JULIA
ANGLE ON MALCOLM AND SELINA:
Malcolm stares at Selina, appears to be on the verge of
speech. Opens his mouth. Closes it.
Tries again.
MALCOLM
(whispers)
Selina...
Yes?
SELINA
Her look is not encouraging.
MALCOLM
Would you like something to drink?
SELINA
No, thank you.
Malcolm goes over to the beverage table. Pours himself a
drink. Tosses it back.
ANGLE ON JULIA:
She whispers something to Henry before walking over to join
Malcolm.
JULIA
So, you and Selina are to make a
match of it after all.
MALCOLM
It does appear that way.
JULIA
(lowers her voice)
I feel you should know that Mr.
Ossory still has hopes Selina will
break your engagement and make a
match with him.
Malcolm looks over to where Selina is sitting just in time to
see Henry sit next to her, in the seat Malcolm has just
vacated.
MALCOLM
I am sorry that Mr. Ossory
entertains hopes in that regard,
because he is destined for
disappointment.
JULIA
I admit I'd be happier if he did
not attain that particular goal.
So I've come to warn you not to do
anything that might cause Selina to
break the engagement, because then
we will both have cause for regret.
Malcolm just nods in response, still observing Henry and
Selina.
JULIA's POV:
Malcolm walks back over to where Henry and Selina are sitting
and says something to Henry, who looks bewildered and comes
to join Julia at the tea tray.
HENRY
I do not know what is wrong with
Malcolm. I had just gone over to
speak to Selina as you suggested,
and he nearly bit my head off. I
hope he and Selina work out their
differences soon.
JULIA
Oh, he is merely jealous. I told
him you still had hopes for a match
with Selina and he is indulging in
a fit of temper.
HENRY
(loudly)
You did what?
JULIA'S POV:
Everyone in the room is looking at them.
Julia smiles at the onlookers, then grabs Henry's hand and
pulls him through the French doors that lead to the terrace.
EXT. HADLEY HALL – TERRACE - NIGHT - CONTINUOUS
JULIA
It is perfectly harmless, Henry. I
just wanted to ensure that Malcolm
values Selina as he ought. If he
thinks you are waiting in the wings
he will be even less likely to
allow Selina to break their
engagement.
HENRY
Julia, I have had it with you
inventing stories and getting me
involved in these silly schemes of
yours.
JULIA
But, Henry, this is really very
innocent. You don't even have to
do anything. Though it might be a
good idea if you showed Selina a
little extra attention.
HENRY
You see! That is exactly what I
mean. I refuse to pretend an
attraction I do not feel, just
because you have been fabricating
stories.
JULIA
But you are attracted to Selina.
HENRY
So now I am not even allowed to
decide to whom I am attracted? The
least you could do is allow me to
decide that! Does this seem as
though I am attracted to Selina?
Henry abruptly pulls Julia into his arms and kisses her.
Well?
HENRY (CONT’D)
Julia is staring wide-eyed at Henry.
Henry!
JULIA
I thought you were nice.
So Henry has no choice but to kiss her again.
INT. HADLEY HALL – DRAWING ROOM - NIGHT - CONTINUOUS
Malcolm is sitting next to Selina in the seat Henry just
vacated.
SELINA
I do not understand why you are
behaving so badly toward poor
Henry.
MALCOLM
I don't know that I'd refer to him
as poor Henry. He seems to have
done rather well for himself.
SELINA
I cannot understand your animosity
toward him. He is supposed to be
your friend.
MALCOLM
Yes, he is supposed to be my
friend, just as you are supposed to
be my intended bride.
SELINA
I gather from your tone of voice I
am expected to infer something from
that statement, but I have no idea
what you're talking about.
MALCOLM
You are just biding your time,
aren't you? You are just waiting
to jilt me so you can announce your
real engagement to Henry.
SELINA
My engagement to Henry?
(laughs)
Malcolm, we've been through this
already. Henry no longer has any
interest in me other than that of a
friend. I believe he is forming an
attachment to Julia after all, poor
man.
MALCOLM
Julia just told me—
Malcolm looks around to see that everyone who was staring at
Julia and Henry is now staring at he and Selina.
MALCOLM (CONT’D)
Come, let us go where we can be
private.
He leads Selina out the same pair of French doors through
which Henry and Julia just exited.
EXT. HADLEY HALL – TERRACE - NIGHT - CONTINUOUS
Julia and Henry are locked in a passionate embrace, barely
ten feet away.
SELINA
You were saying?
Malcolm shakes his head in disbelief.
MALCOLM
I will never believe another word
out of that woman's mouth. I
wonder if Henry knows what he's
getting in to?
SELINA
He does not appear to mind. Now,
if you will excuse me, I think I'll
retire for the night. I believe
our conversation has been rendered
moot.
Selina leaves.
MALCOLM
Selina, wait...
Malcolm takes a step after her, but she's gone too quickly.
Damn it.
MALCOLM (CONT’D)
He turns and walks a few feet closer to Henry and Julia. He
clears his throat.
Henry stops kissing Julia, but does not release her from his
embrace.
HENRY
(still looking at Julia)
Jeremy, old chap. I noticed you
and Selina had come onto the
terrace but I was hoping you'd
appreciate our desire for privacy.
MALCOLM
Henry, I must warn you that the
woman you are embracing is a lying,
deceiving hussy.
HENRY
I know all that, my friend, but I
thank you for the warning just the
same.
Julia begins struggling to get out of Henry's embrace.
JULIA
Why, you, you dastardly knave, you
scoundrel, you—
HENRY
Hush. You didn't allow me to
finish. I was going to tell him I
plan on devoting my life to keeping
those nasty habits of yours in
check.
Julia stops struggling.
You do?
JULIA
HENRY
I do, indeed. In fact, I
positively look forward to it.
Oh, Henry!
JULIA
They begin kissing again, and Malcolm stalks away in disgust.
INT. HADLEY HALL - SELINA'S GUEST CHAMBER - MORNING
Selina is sitting by the window reading when there is a knock
at the door.
Come in.
SELINA
The door opens and Cassie stands there.
CASSIE
Selina, you must come with me at
once.
Why?
SELINA
Is something wrong?
CASSIE
I haven't got time to explain, we
must go down to the stables
immediately.
He puts his hand under Selina's elbow and begins leading her
out of the room and down the stairs.
INT. HADLEY HALL – FRONT STAIRS - DAY
SELINA
Cassie, could you stop pushing me?
I am about to tumble headlong down
the stairs.
CASSIE
We must hurry.
He leads her through the front entry hall, through the door
and down the front steps.
EXT. HADLEY HALL – FRONT ENTRANCE - DAY
A curricle stands in the front drive; a groom at the horses'
heads.
SELINA
Why must we hurry? What is wrong?
Is one of the horses ill?
CASSIE
No, it's much worse than that.
Julia's run off.
SELINA
What do you mean ‘run off'?
would she go?
Where
Cassie ignores her question, urging her up into the curricle
and then jumping up beside her.
SELINA (CONT’D)
Cassie, if you don't tell me what's
going on…
CASSIE
I don't know exactly. It's
probably some scheme of hers. But
if we don't get her back soon,
she's going to ruin her chances
with Ossory. He doesn't think too
highly of her scheming.
INT. HORSE-DRAWN CURRICLE (MOVING) - DAY - CONTINUOUS
SELINA
If you don't know where Julia is,
where are we going?
CASSIE
To an inn in Tunbridge Wells. I
think that's probably where she's
gone.
SELINA
But why? Why would she risk ruining
her reputation when she's just
become engaged to Mr. Ossory?
CASSIE
(sulkily)
Why are you asking so many
questions? I told you I don't
know.
(MORE)
CASSIE (CONT'D)
I've never been able to figure out
what Julia's up to. I just know
she's always thinking up schemes
to make my life difficult.
SELINA
That is true, at least.
There is silence for a moment, until Selina sees a sign that
says: TUNBRIDGE WELLS
with an arrow pointing in the opposite direction.
SELINA (CONT’D)
Cassie, you're going the wrong way.
CASSIE
Eh? No, I don't think so. Why
don't you look at the pretty
flowers?
SELINA
You are definitely going the wrong
way. This road goes to London.
You should have turned back there
for Tunbridge Wells.
CASSIE
I know where I'm going. By Jove,
look at the pretty rose bush.
He points to a rhododendron.
SELINA
That is a rhododendron. I cannot
imagine how I permitted you to talk
me into going anywhere.
Selina leans over and grabs his hands and pulls as hard as
she can on the reins. The horses rear back in confusion.
Cassie struggles to control the horses.
CASSIE
Selina! Are you trying to kill us?
SELINA
I have no intention of going with
you to London, Cassie. So please
explain to me right now what all of
this is about.
CASSIE
It's for your own good, don't you
see? I left a note. The others
think we're eloping. I told them
that since Malcolm wasn't prepared
to do the honourable thing, I
would.
SELINA
You did what? Why?
CASSIE
Julia told me that the engagement
was just a farce. I thought
Malcolm needed some help coming to
the sticking point. Now that he
knows Ossory is interested in
Julia, you needed someone else to
make him jealous. I was happy to
oblige.
SELINA
While I appreciate your concern, I
hardly think abducting me before
breakfast will induce Malcolm to
propose. He'll probably just think
it's another attempt to deceive
him, which will cause him to
distrust me again.
CASSIE
Dash it, I never thought of that.
SELINA
Yes, well, there's no harm done.
Why don't we just turn around and
go back.
Cassie looks disappointed.
SELINA (CONT’D)
Perhaps you could teach me to drive
your curricle on the way.
CUT TO:
EXT. HADLEY HALL – FRONT DRIVE - DAY
Selina turns the curricle onto the front drive. She's doing
very well driving, and Cassie is sitting comfortably beside
her.
CASSIE'S POV:
He sees someone exit the house and walk down the steps.
ANGLE ON CASSIE
Cassie sits up straighter in the curricle and strains to see
who it is. As they approach the house…
CASSIE'S POV:
He sees that it is Malcolm.
Cassie suddenly throws his arms around Selina, acting as if
he's guiding her in driving the curricle. He's paying no
attention to his driving but is looking instead at Malcolm's
reaction.
SELINA
What are you doing?
CASSIE
Never mind. Just keep driving.
SELINA
I can't drive when you're on top of
me like this. You're pulling the
horses in the wrong direction.
Cassie!
Cassie finally looks ahead to see where he's going and...
They have left the main drive and are headed straight for an
ornamental lake.
Selina SCREAMS. Cassie pulls hard
horses slow down, but the wheel of
the damp ground at the lake's edge
tossing Selina and Cassie into the
on the reins and the
the curricle sinks into
and is tipped sideways,
lake.
Selina attempts to stand and falls backward, having tripped
over Cassie's leg.
Cassie just sits in the shallow water, looking dazed.
Selina looks up to see Malcolm standing on the bank.
MALCOLM
Is this some sort of bizarre mating
ritual with you, Selina?
SELINA
That is not funny in the least.
MALCOLM
I was not attempting to be funny.
I am not at all in the mood for
jokes, having discovered the woman
I love ran off with another man.
Selina plops back down in the water, shocked at the
accusation.
SELINA
You cannot believe I would actually
elope with Cassie?
CASSIE
There's no need to be insulting.
Plenty of young ladies would jump
at the chance.
MALCOLM
I must admit I thought it
farfetched at first, but then to
see you drive up practically in his
arms, well, what was I to think?
Exactly.
CASSIE
SELINA
That your addlepated friend had
abducted me and was intent on
dumping me into the lake.
CASSIE
That last bit wasn't part of the
plan, actually.
SELINA
Oh, please be quiet, both of you,
and somebody help me out of this
lake.
Malcolm steps closer to the water, holding out his hand for
Selina. She smiles up at him...
Before taking his hand and pulling him in. Malcolm finds
himself on his hands and knees in the water, Selina's
laughing face a few inches from his. Then her expression
grows serious.
SELINA (CONT’D)
Did you just say you love me?
Malcolm nods and leans toward her. She closes her eyes for
his kiss and is pulled under water. She emerges from the
water, gasping and sputtering.
Why you….
SELINA (CONT’D)
She splashes water in his face and when Cassie starts
laughing, Malcolm splashes him as well, and then a wholesale
water fight commences between the three.
During a slight lull in the activity they hear:
LADY KILBOURNE (O.S.)
I see that we are going to need
more towels.
SELINA AND MALCOLM'S POV:
Lady Kilbourne, Mr. and Mrs. Dalton, Julia and Henry are
standing on the banks of the lake, watching the threesome in
the water.
LADY KILBOURNE (CONT’D)
I know, Jeremy, that you and Selina
are engaged, but who is going to do
the proper thing for Lord Cassidy?
EXT. HADLEY HALL – GRECIAN FOLLY – DAY - LATER
Selina is looking out at the grounds, which are spread out
below them. Malcolm is looking at her. He puts his finger
under her chin and turns her head so she's facing him.
MALCOLM
I would like to offer an
explanation for the deplorable way
I treated you when I discovered
Julia's little plot.
SELINA
I think I understand, Jeremy. It
must be difficult to trust someone
when you've been the victim of so
much deceit.
MALCOLM
That is part of the reason, but it
is not the entire reason. I was
relieved to find an excuse to
discredit you, as curious as that
seems. There is a certain feeling
of…insecurity in loving someone.
(MORE)
MALCOLM (CONT'D)
I had guarded myself against that
sort of vulnerability for so long,
that when I found myself falling in
love with you I was filled with
trepidation.
SELINA
I never realized I was so
terrifying.
MALCOLM
You scare me to death. Though I
suppose I shouldn't admit it in the
middle of a marriage proposal.
SELINA
Is that what this is?
MALCOLM
I am obviously not doing it
correctly if you don't even
recognize my objective. Should I
get down on one knee?
SELINA
Only figuratively.
MALCOLM
(becoming serious)
Selina, you are everything I've
ever looked for in a woman,
everything I could ever desire in a
wife. You are the ‘chief happiness
that this world affords,' to
misquote Johnson. I would count
myself the most fortunate of men if
you would marry me.
SELINA
Oh, Jeremy, that was beautiful.
MALCOLM
It isn't over yet. You have to give
me an answer.
SELINA
Of course I will marry you. It is
all I ever wanted from the first
moment I saw you in the library.
Malcolm starts to pull her into his arms, and then stops,
reaching into his jacket.
MALCOLM
I almost forgot. I wanted you to
see this.
He hands her a piece of paper.
SELINA
What is it? Oh no, don't tell me
this is your infamous list.
MALCOLM
No, it is a new list that I
composed two days ago, when I
realized what I really desire in a
wife.
Selina quickly scans the list and then looks up at Malcolm.
The list falls unheeded to the floor as she and Malcolm
embrace.
CU of list as it lays at their feet:
1. Is perfectly imperfect.
2. Makes me laugh.
3. Forgives me for being a misguided idiot.
FADE OUT
THE END