"BEING THERE" Screenplay by Jerzy Kosinski and Robert C. Jones January 10, 1979 FADE IN: INT. CHANCE'S ROOM - DAWN A large-screen color TV dominates a room sparsely decorated with expensive furniture of the twenties. There are no books, magazines, newspapers to be seen. A man, CHANCE, is in bed, sleeping. His eyes slowly open, and, with no change of expression, he sits up and turns on the TV with a remote control. He reaches for a pocketwatch on the bedside table, and, as he looks at it, the watch chimes. He gets out of bed, crosses to the closet, his eyes never straying from the TV. Chance puts on a bathrobe and leaves the room. INT. POTTING ROOM - DAWN The room is filled with the tools of a gardener. Chance enters and turns on a 1940's black and white TV that sits on a shelf. A wheel with colored gels spins in front of the set, giving an early form of color television. He waters a few of the plants in the potting room as he watches TV. INT. GARAGE - DAWN Chance, with a dust rag and feather duster, cleans off a 1935 limousine, in perfect condition. INT. CHANCE'S ROOM - DAWN Chance takes off his robe, hangs it in the closet, changes channels on the TV, then goes into the bathroom. EXT. GARDEN - MORNING A light snow is falling in a garden between a three-story brick townhouse and a one-story rear building, guarded on either side by a high brick wall. The door to the rear building opens, Chance peeks out, then goes back inside. A moment passes and Chance reappears, this time with an umbrella. Smartly attired in suit and tie, Chance, with an eye on the garden, crosses to the townhouse. INT. TOWN HOUSE - REAR ENTRANCE/HALLWAY - MORNING Chance enters, hangs his umbrella on a door knob, then crosses through the hall. As he goes, we reveal that the furniture in the house is covered with sheets. INT. TOWN HOUSE - DINING ROOM - MORNING A large table, covered with a sheet except for two place settings. A TV is on the table. Chance comes into the room, sits and turns on the television. He watches the screen for a moment, then turns, as if expecting someone. No one appears, so he turns back to the TV. After a time. Footsteps are heard and Chance smiles. LOUISE, an elderly Black maid, hurries into the room, visibly distraught. CHANCE Good morning, Louise. LOUISE (out of breath) He's dead, Chance! The Old Man's dead! CHANCE (flatly, turns back to TV) ...I see. LOUISE Must of happened durin' the night, I don't know... Lord, he wasn't breathin' and as cold as a fish. I touched him, just to see, and you believe me, Chance -- that's doin' more than I get paid to do... Then I just cover him up, pulled the sheet over his head... CHANCE (nodding) Yes. I've seen that done. LOUISE ...Then I get the hell out of that room and call the doctor and I think I woke him probably, he wasn't any too alert. He just said, 'Yeah, he's been expectin' it and said he'd send somebody over...' Lord, what a mornin'! CHANCE (watches news, flashes of season's first snowfall) ...Yes, Louise, it's snowing in the garden today. Have you looked outside and seen the snow? It's very white. A beat of silence from Louise, then anger. LOUISE Gobbledegook! Dammit, Boy! Is that all you got to say? More gobbledegook? (Chance smiles, is silent) That Old Man's layin' up there dead as hell and it just don't make any difference to you! Louise takes a long look at Chance, then softens, sits next to him. LOUISE Oh, Lord, Chance -- I don't know what I was expectin' from you... I'm sorry for yellin' like I did... No sir, I just don't know what I was expectin'... (Chance doesn't react, watches TV) ...I 'spose I'd better gather up some breakfast for you... CHANCE (a turn to her) Yes, I'm very hungry. LOUISE (rises, looks upstairs) Well, no more stewin' those prunes every mornin', that's somethin', I guess... (she starts out, stops by the door) ...What are you goin' to do now, Chance? CHANCE (gazing at TV) I'm going to work in the garden. Louise gives Chance another look, then turns to leave. LOUISE (as she goes) ...I'll get you some eggs. Chance nods in approval, then changes the channel on the TV. INT. TOWN HOUSE - SERVANT'S STAIRWAY - MORNING An enclosed stairway. Chance enters, proceeds up the stairs. INT. TOWN HOUSE - UPSTAIRS HALLWAY - MORNING Chance comes out of the doorway adjoining the main staircase. He moves off down the hall. INT. TOWN HOUSE - OLD MAN'S ROOM - MORNING The furniture in this room is not covered with sheets -- but the Old Man is. There is a knock a the door, then Chance enters the room. He stands by the bed for a moment, Then reaches down and pulls the sheet back from the Old Man's face. He touches the man's forehead, briefly, then replaces the sheet. Chance moves to the the TV and turns it on. He sits in an easy chair next to the Old Man's bed and watches a movie from the early forties. Chance puts an arm out, rests it on the Old Man's covered body. He becomes absorbed in a scene in which a gentleman tips his hat to a lady. The scene seems to have 'sunk into' his mind. EXT. GARDEN - MORNING It has stopped snowing. Chance, wearing a hat, and a gardening apron over his suit, putters in the garden. Louise, dressed warmly, comes out of the main house. Chance sees her, tips his hat exactly like the man he saw on television. LOUISE ...Well, ain't you the gentleman this morning... (a pause) ...I'm gonna go now, Chance... CHANCE (resumes working) Yes. LOUISE You're gonna need somebody, some one's gotta be around for you... (he keeps working) ...You oughta find yourself a lady, Chance... (she smiles slightly, with caring) ...But I guess it oughta be an old lady, 'cause you ain't gonna do a young one any good, not with that little thing of yours... (she reaches out, puts a hand on his shoulder) ...You're always gonna be a little boy ain't you? (he smiles, keeps working) ...Goodbye, Chance... Louise hugs and kisses Chance, then turns to go. CHANCE (as she goes) Goodbye, Louise. Louise waves as she enters the townhouse. Chance tips his hat once again as she disappears. INT. TOWN HOUSE - FRONT HALLWAY - MORNING Louise enters the hallway, picks up a couple of suitcases waiting by the door. She stops as she sees TWO Men carrying a stretcher down the main staircase. A THIRD MAN, a mortician, follows behind. LOUISE ...He used to be a big man... 'Spose he wasted away to about nothin'... (a beat -- then she talks to the body of the Old Man) I guess I'll be goin' off to find me some folks, Old Man... I'm not batty enough to stay around this neighborhood any longer... The stretcher bearers move to the front door. Louise steps in front of them. LOUISE Wait up! I'm goin' out that door first. Louise takes one more look at the covered body, then opens the front door, leaves. EXT. GARDEN - DAY Chance's pocketwatch chimes as he looks at it. He removes his gardener's apron as he walks toward the townhouse. INT. TOWNHOUSE DINING ROOM. Chance enters and sits at his place. He turns on the TV, and watches for a moment, then turns, looks for Louise. She does not appear so he resumes watching TV. He changes channels, views a wildly exciting game show. At a peak in the excitement, he again switches channels to news coverage of the President of the Unite States greeting foreign dignitaries at the White House. CLOSE SHOTS on television reveal that the President uses a two-handed handshake when meeting his guests. Chance grips one hand with the other, the scene on TV seeming to have 'sunk into' his mind. INT. TOWNHOUSE - FRONT HALLWAY - DAY A key is heard in the lock. The door opens and THOMAS FRANKLIN and SALLY HAYES enter. Franklin, an attorney, is in his late thirties, carries a large briefcase. Hayes is younger, attractive, also an attorney. She totes a briefcase, has the look of a modern woman. FRANKLIN (as they enter) He and my father used to ride together back in the thirties... Fox hunting... Before I was born... HAYES (looking around) Will you give me a tour? FRANKLIN Gladly... (he smiles) ...The safe is in Mr. Jenning's bedroom, that'll be stop number one. Franklin puts a hand on Hayes' shoulder as they go toward the stairway. Suddenly, they stop, listen to the off-stage TV. INT. TOWNHOUSE DINING ROOM - DAY Chance still watches TV as Franklin and Hayes appear in the doorway. They are surprised to see Chance. FRANKLIN ...Why... Hello, we thought we heard something... (moves to Chance, hand outstretched) ...I'm Thomas Franklin. Chance remains seated, takes Franklin's hand warmly in both of his like the President did on TV. CHANCE Hello, Thomas... I'm Chance, the gardener. FRANKLIN (a beat) ...The gardener? (thinks it's a joke, laughs) ...Yes, of course... Mr. Chance, this is Ms. Hayes. Hayes moves to shake Chance's hand. HAYES Mr. Chance, I'm very pleased to meet you. CHANCE (doesn't rise, again shakes with both hands) Yes. Chance turns back to the TV. Hayes and Franklin exchange looks, there is an uneasy pause. FRANKLIN We're with Franklin, Jennings and Roberts, the law firm handling the estate. CHANCE (a smile, totally at ease) Yes, Thomas -- I understand. FRANKLIN ...Are you waiting for someone? An appointment? CHANCE I'm waiting for my lunch. FRANKLIN Your lunch? You have a luncheon appointment here? CHANCE Louise will bring my lunch. FRANKLIN Louise?... The maid?... (a look to Hayes) But she should have left earlier today... CHANCE (smiles at Hayes) I see... FRANKLIN (a beat) All kidding aside, Mr. Chance, may I ask just what you are doing here? CHANCE I live here. Franklin stares at Chance as Hayes unzips her briefcase. EXT. GARDEN - AFTERNOON Chance talks to Franklin as Hayes quickly checks through some paperwork. CHANCE The Old Man himself used to visit my garden. He would read and rest here. FRANKLIN Come now, the deceased... (catches himself) Mr. Jennings was bedridden for at least the last thirty-five years, since he fractured his spine. CHANCE Yes, Thomas. Then he stopped visiting my garden. (points to a small area) I planted a lot of tulips right there. I like to watch them grow. HAYES (looking up from papers) There is no mention of a gardener. In fact, according to our inventories, there hasn't been a man employed here since 1933... except for a Mr. Joe Saracini, a brick mason, who did some repairs to a wall. He was here for two-and-a-half days in 1952. CHANCE Yes, I remember Joe. He was very fat and had short hair and showed me pictures from a funny little book. HAYES ...Some pictures? CHANCE Yes. Of men and women. HAYES ...Oh. FRANKLIN Just how long have you been living here, Mr. Chance? CHANCE Ever since I can remember, since I was a child. I have always worked in the garden. HAYES ...Then you really are a gardener? CHANCE Yes. (again points off) ...My roses... FRANKLIN ...We will need some proof of your having resided here, Mr. Chance. CHANCE You have me, I am here. What more proof do you need? (he starts toward rear building, points off) That's where Joe fixed the wall. FRANKLIN (starts after Chance) Are you related to the deceased, Mr. Chance? CHANCE No. I don't think so. (looks back to garden) In the springtime, you will be able to see my flowers. Chance goes into the garage. A perplexed Franklin and Hayes follow. INT. GARAGE - AFTERNOON Chance enters, Franklin and Hayes close behind. FRANKLIN (looking at limo) That's a nice car. Do you drive it, Mr. Chance? CHANCE I've never been in an automobile. HAYES You've never been in a car? CHANCE Oh, no. I've never been allowed outside of the house. INT. CHANCE'S ROOM - AFTERNOON Chance turns on the TV as Hayes and Franklin inspect the room. CHANCE I used to listen to the radio, then the Old Man started giving me television sets, this one has a remote control... I like to watch... (motions to bed) You see? This is my bed... (to closet) ...This is my closet... (to bathroom) ...This is my bathroom... HAYES (goes to closet) You have a very handsome wardrobe, Mr. Chance. CHANCE Yes. I am allowed to go to the attic and use the Old Man's clothes. They all fit me very well. HAYES It is amazing how these clothes have come back into style. FRANKLIN Could you show us something with your address? A driver's license, a checkbook? Anything to show that you were employed here? CHANCE I don't have any of those things. HAYES How about a birth certificate? CHANCE Oh, no. FRANKLIN What are your plans now, Mr. Chance? CHANCE My plans are to work in my garden. HAYES How much money did Mr. Jennings pay you for your work? CHANCE Pay me?... Why nothing. I've never needed money. FRANKLIN Mr. Chance, I would like to know what sort of claim you are planning to make against the deceased's estate. CHANCE I'm fine, Thomas. The garden is a healthy one. There is no need for a claim. FRANKLIN I see. Would you be willing to sign a paper to that effect? CHANCE No, Thomas. I don't know how to sign. FRANKLIN Come now, Mr. Chance. CHANCE (smiles) I have no claim, Thomas. FRANKLIN But you won't sign, correct? CHANCE Yes, correct, thank you. FRANKLIN Very well, Mr. Chance. I have no alternative but to inform you that this house is now closed. If indeed, you have resided here, you have no legal right to remain. You will have to move out. CHANCE Move out? I don't understand, Thomas. FRANKLIN I think you do, Mr. Chance. However, I will reiterate. This house is closed and you must leave -- by, let's say -- noon tomorrow. (he gives Chance his business card) Call me if you change your mind about signing. (turns to Hayes) C'mon, Sally -- let's grab a bite... HAYES (stops by the door) What about medical records? Could you gives us the name of your doctor? Or your dentist? CHANCE I have no need for a doctor or dentist. I have never been ill. HAYES (a smile to Chance) I see... Well, good day, Mr. Chance. CHANCE (returns smile) Good day, Sally. Chance watches as they leave, then puts Franklin's card on a desk without ever looking at it and turns to stare at television. INT. TOWNHOUSE - ATTIC - AFTERNOON A large attic filled with the Old Man's possessions of the past. Chance enters, turns on an old black-and white TV with a magnifying lens attached to the front. As it plays, he selects a fine leather suitcase from several, takes a hand- made suit from a long rack. INT. CHANCE'S ROOM - AFTERNOON The TV is on as Chance packs his belongings. He tries to fit in his umbrella, but it is too long for the suitcase. EXT. GARDEN - AFTERNOON Chance, very nicely dressed, with his suitcase and umbrella, stands in the middle of the garden looking around. INT. TOWNHOUSE - FRONT HALLWAY - AFTERNOON Chance is reluctant to open the front door. After some hesitation, he gathers up his courage, opens it and steps outside, closing the door behind him. EXT. FRONT OF TOWNHOUSE - WASHINGTON, D.C. - AFTERNOON Chance stops short on the steps; the front of the townhouse is run down and the yard filled with trash. He tries to return to the safety of inside, but the door is locked. Chance stays on the steps for a moment, ponders which way to go. Making a decision, he steps to the sidewalk and walks down the street to reveal a decaying ghetto. Windows are shattered or boarded up, walls are smeared with graffiti. Chance passes a group of black people huddled together in threadbare stuffed furniture on the sidewalk, a fire burning between them for warmth. Chance nods politely to the the people; they stare back, no sign of friendship in their faces. EXT. GHETTO STREET - WASHINGTON, D.C. - AFTERNOON Chance walks along a ghetto sidewalk. He notices something, moves across the street toward a gang of eight to ten hardcore ghetto youths. EXT. GHETTO STREET - WASHINGTON, D.C. - AFTERNOON Chance approaches the gang. CHANCE (friendly) ...Excuse me, would you please tell em where I could find a garden to work in? They turn to him as one, silent. After a moment, LOLO, one of the gang, speaks. LOLO What you growin', man? CHANCE There is much to be done during the winter, I must start the seeds for the spring, I must work the soil... The leader of the gang, ABBAZ, moves forward and interrupts. ABBAZ Bullshit. Who sent you here, boy? Did that chickenshit asshole Raphael send you here, boy? CHANCE No. Thomas Franklin told me that I had to leave the Old Man's house, he's dead now, you know... ABBAZ Dead, my ass! Now get this, honkie -- you go tell Raphael that I ain't takin' no jive from no Western Union messenger! You tell that asshole, if he got somethin' to tell me to get his ass down here himself! (edges closer to Chance) You got that boy? During this, as Abbaz becomes more hostile, Chance reaches into his pocket, takes out his remote control TV changer. He points the changer at Abbaz and clicks it three times, tries to change the picture. ABBAZ immediately pulls out a switchblade knife, holds it at Chance. ABBAZ Now, move, honkie! Before I cut your white ass. Chance, disappointed that the changer did not work, returns it to his pocket. CHANCE Yes. I understand. If I see Raphael, I will tell him. (as he leaves) Good day. Abbaz, Lolo and the gang watch him go, then begin to buzz with excitement: "Who the fuck died?" "Why'd he pull that changer on us, man?" "The Old Man died, must be Papa Joe!" "He's some weird honkie, man!" EXT. PORNO AREA - WASHINGTON, D.C. - AFTERNOON A street lined with adult book stores, X-rated movies and strip joints. An elderly Black Woman approaches carrying a bag of groceries. Chance steps in front of the woman, stops her. CHANCE I'm very hungry now. Would you please bring my lunch? The woman looks up to Chance, becomes very frightened. She turns and half-runs into a sleazy bar for safety. Chances watches after her for a moment, then continues along. EXT. PARK - WASHINGTON, D.C. - AFTERNOON Chance stands looking through a chain-link fence watching some teenage boys playing basketball. He bangs on the fence, calls to them. CHANCE I have seen your game! I have watched Elvin Hayes play it many times! They call him 'Big E!' The boys ignore him, Chance walks away. EXT. - WASHINGTON, D.C. - LATE AFTERNOON Chance seems stumped on which way to walk. He looks one way, then the other, turns and looks behind him and sees a large statue of Benito Juarez pointing. Chance smiles and goes off in the direction that Benito points. EXT. WASHINGTON, D.C. - LATE AFTERNOON Chance walks down the center meridian of a divided street. He seems oblivious to the automobiles passing on either side. In the background can be seen the Capitol Building. EXT. REAR OF THE WHITE HOUSE - DUSK Chance is across the street from the White House, inspecting the branches of a potted tree. He moves to a POLICEMAN standing nearby. CHANCE Excuse me... (points to tree) ...That tree is very sick. It should be cared for. The Policeman looks at the tree, then at Chance, figures a man dressed that well must be important. POLICEMAN Yes sir. I'll report it right away. CHANCE Yes. That would be a good thing to do. Good day. POLICEMAN Good day. The Policeman takes out his walkie-talkie as Chance leaves. EXT. BUSINESS DISTRICT - EVENING A fashionable area. Expensive shops, well-kept streets and sidewalks. Chance stands by the display window of a TV store, looks in at a dozen or so color TVs, all turned on, playing various channels. A video camera points outward and is focused on the sidewalk to allow passersby to see themselves live on TV. Chance is intrigued by his own image. He poses, then steps back off the curb, frowns as his likeness disappears from the frame. Standing between two parked cars, Chance takes out his remote control, clicks it at the store. Four or five other sets in the window change channels, but he does not reappear on the giant screen. As he does this, the car to his left, a large, American-made limousine, backs up. The limo bumps Chance, pins him against the car to his right. Chance cries out in pain, drops his suitcase, his umbrella, his changer, and bangs his hand on the trunk of the limo. The chauffeur, DAVID, and the liveryman, JEFFREY, immediately jump from the car, run back to Chance. DAVID I'm very sorry, sir... I... David and Jeffrey reach out to help, but Chance is wedged solidly between the two cars. CHANCE (in pain) ...I can't move... My leg... DAVID (rushes back to limo) ...My Lord... JEFFREY This is terrible, sir -- I hope you're not badly injured... CHANCE No. I'm not badly injured. But my leg is very sore. David pulls the car forward, freeing Chance. A few bystanders begin to gather as Jeffrey helps Chance to the sidewalk. JEFFREY Can you walk? It's not broken, is it? CHANCE (leans against limo, holds leg) I hope not. DAVID (returning) Perhaps I should call an ambulance. A BYSTANDER interrupts. BYSTANDER Somebody ought to call the police! CHANCE (looks over, smiles) There's no need for police, it's just my leg. During this, the rear door of the limo opens and EVE RAND steps out. Eve is in her mid-thirties, and is rich. She is not pleased with this inconvenience JEFFREY Let's have a look, do you mind? CHANCE Of course. I would like to look. Chance bends, raises his trouser leg. A red-bluish swollen bruise is forming on his calf. Eve moves closer, looks at the bruise. EVE (to Chance) ...Won't you let us do something for you? Your leg should be examined, we could take you to a hospital. CHANCE (smiles at Eve) There's no need for a hospital. EVE Why, there certainly is. You must see a doctor, I insist on it. Please, let us take you. Eve turns to get back in the limo. David goes with her to hold the door. DAVID I'm terribly sorry, Mrs. Rand, I never saw the man. EVE Oh, I don't think it was anyone's fault, David. DAVID Thank you, ma'am. Jeffrey holds the door open but Chance is hesitant about getting in the car. CHANCE I've never ridden in an automobile. JEFFREY (a beat) I assure you, sir, David is a very careful driver. CHANCE (looks at the car, then decides) ...Yes. You can take me. JEFFREY (as Chance gets in) Very good. Jeffrey closes the door, goes back to pick up Chance's suitcase and umbrella but does not notice the remote control. As Jeffrey puts Chance's bag into the trunk, we see the personalized license plate "Rand 1." INT. LIMOUSINE MOVING THROUGH TOWN - EVENING Chance and Eve are settled in the back seat. As they talk, Chance is experiencing his first ride in a car. EVE I hope you're comfortable. CHANCE Yes, I am. EVE These situations can be so trying -- everybody seems to make such a todo over a simple little accident... (eyes Chance) ...the insurance, police, the news and all... Is your leg feeling any better? CHANCE No, it isn't. EVE I see. Chance looks out the window at passing cars. CHANCE It looks very much like television but you can see further. EVE (not hearing him) Say -- if you came to our house, we could take care of you there. CHANCE Your house? EVE Yes. My husband has been very ill. His doctor and nurses are staying with us. Those hospitals can be so impersonal -- why, it might be hours before you are treated... CHANCE I agree. EVE Fine, it will save a lot of unnecessary fuss and it will be so much more pleasant for you... (leans forward) David, we'll just go on home. Jeffrey, would you call and let them know? JEFFREY Yes ma'am. Jeffrey closes the glass between them, then dials the limo telephone. There is a moment of silence. Eve, a bit uncomfortable, presses a button. The limo's bar moves out, revealing a row of decanters and glasses. EVE Would you care for a drink? CHANCE Yes. Thank you. I am very thirsty. As Eve pours cognac into a monogrammed crystal glass, Chance notices the limo's TV set. CHANCE I would like to watch television. EVE (a bit surprised) Oh? Certainly... She hands Chance the cognac, turns on the TV. EVE May I ask your name? Chance takes a sip of the cognac, is not accustomed to alcohol, coughs. CHANCE (with a slight cough) My name is Chance. EVE Pardon me, was that Mr. Chance? CHANCE No, I'm a gardener. EVE Oh... Mr. Gardiner... Mr. Chauncey Gardiner... You're not related to Basil and Perdita Gardiner are you? CHANCE No... I'm not related to Basil and Perdita. EVE Oh. Well, they're just a wonderful couple, we've been friends for years. We visit their island quite often. Chance suddenly starts going through his pockets, searching. EVE Did you lose something? CHANCE Yes. I lost my remote control. EVE Oh... Well, I'm very sorry... Another pause, Chance reaches out, changes channels on TV. EXT. HIGHWAY - WOODED AREA - NIGHT The limo approaches, then turns into the entranceway of the Rand Estate. Two guards stand on either side of the open gate, salute as the car passes through. INT. LIMOUSINE - NIGHT As Eve speaks, Chance is glued to the TV, switches channels to the news. EVE Is there anything special you like to watch? CHANCE I like to watch. This is fine. EVE I know it's very important to stay informed of all the latest events, but I find there is so much to assimilate that it can become quite muddling at times... Chance nods, changes the channel, watches a Mighty Mouse cartoon. Eve takes it for a small joke and smiles patronizingly. EXT. RAND MANSION - NIGHT At least three uniformed people, two valets, WILSON and PERKINS, and LEWIS, the Doorman, are waiting at the front of the Rand Mansion as the limousine arrives. There is a general hubbub as the three of them, along with Jeffrey, help Chance into a wheelchair. INT. RAND MANSION - FRONT HALLWAY - NIGHT As the group comes through the front doors, Wilson is wheeling Chance. A uniformed woman, GRETA, is waiting to take Eve's coat. EVE (to Wilson) You take Mr. Gardiner to the third floor guest suite. (to Chance) I'll see you after Dr. Allenby has a look at your leg. CHANCE Yes, I think he should examine my leg. Eve heads off partially revealing a remarkable and large place to live in as Wilson wheels Chance into the elevator. INT. ELEVATOR - NIGHT As the door closes on them, Chance looks to Wilson. CHANCE ...I've never been in one of these. Wilson thinks that Chance is talking about the wheelchair. WILSON It's one of Mr. Rand's. Since he's been ill... CHANCE (looks around elevator) Does it have a television? WILSON (laughs) No -- but Mr. Rand does have one with an electric motor, that way he can get around by himself. CHANCE I see. Chance again checks out the elevator. CHANCE How long do we stay in here? WILSON How long? I don't know, see what the doctor says... The elevator stops on the third floor. INT. RAND MANSION - PALM COURT - NIGHT Eve is talking to ROBERT ALLENBY. He is in his late fifties and has been Benjamin Rand's doctor for years. EVE I pray that I did the right thing, Robert. I didn't want to take the risk of any publicity, especially with Benjamin being so ill. ALLENBY I'm sure you did, Eve. But let's just hope he's not one of those opportunists that try and make a fortune out of every little bruise. EVE Well, I'm sure we could make a settlement if we had to, but I'd rather not -- find out what you can, I'm going to change. ALLENBY (as she goes) Ben's been asking about you... EVE (over her shoulder) I'll see him soon. Allenby watches after her for a beat, then turns, goes off in the other direction. INT. GUEST SUITE - NIGHT An enormous bedroom, filled with 18th Century antique furniture. Allenby dabs Chance's ass with a piece of cotton soaked in alcohol, prior to an injection. Chance stands with his pants to the floor, looks to the television which is not turned on. ALLENBY This will ease the pain and swelling, Mr. Gardiner. CHANCE I understand. I've seen it done before. ALLENBY Now, you'll barely feel this. It won't hurt at all. Allenby administers the injection, Chance reacts from the pain. CHANCE You were wrong, it did hurt. ALLENBY (a chuckle) But not for long... As Allenby puts a band-aid on Chance's ass, Chance spots a remote control for the TV on the bedside table. He reaches out, picks it up. ALLENBY It's good that there was no apparent damage to the bone. CHANCE Yes. I think so, too. ALLENBY There could be minor hemorrhaging, which really isn't too serious at the time, but can cause secondary problems if not looked after. CHANCE (turns on TV) I see. ALLENBY (a look to the TV, then to Chance) You can pull your trousers up, now. CHANCE Oh, fine. ALLENBY Just to take the proper precautions, Mr. Gardiner, I'd recommend we take you downstairs and X-Ray your leg. There is no reaction from Chance, Allenby takes a long look at him. ALLENBY ...By the way, Mr. Gardiner, I would like to ask you something straight out. CHANCE (doesn't understand) ...Straight out? ALLENBY Yes. Are you planning on making any sort of claim against the Rand's? CHANCE (after a beat) Claim...? ...Oh, claim, that's what Thomas asked me. ALLENBY Thomas? Who's Thomas? CHANCE Thomas Franklin, an attorney. ALLENBY An attorney? CHANCE (turns to TV) Yes. ALLENBY (suddenly very cold) Then you wish to handle this matter through your attorneys? CHANCE There's no need for a claim, the garden is a healthy one. ALLENBY (gives Chance a look) Oh, I see... (laughs) ...Well, then... You caught me off guard, I must admit... CHANCE (changes channels, sits on bed) Thank you. ALLENBY Good, keep your weight off that leg, Mr. Gardiner. In fact, it would be best if you could stay here for a day or two, if that would be possible. I can promise you the finest in care. CHANCE Yes, I could stay here. Does this house have a garden? ALLENBY ...Why, yes -- many. Allenby picks up his bag, heads for the door. ALLENBY I'll send Wilson up to take you for X-Rays, Mr. Gardiner. Feel free to use the telephone, and please let me know if you have any discomfort. CHANCE (clicking changer) Yes, I will. Allenby gives him a look, then leaves. Chance watches an old movie of a man lighting a cigar. The man enjoys the cigar, blows out smoke. The scene seems to 'sink into' Chance's mind. INT. EVE'S BEDROOM/SITTING ROOM - NIGHT Allenby enters to reveal Eve standing in front of large double windows that are wide open. She is wearing different clothes, different hair. ALLENBY Good God, Eve -- you'll freeze. EVE I wanted some fresh air. How is Mr. Gardiner? ALLENBY A rather large contusion, but there isn't any... EVE (interrupts) That's not what I meant, Robert. ALLENBY (a beat) Okay... Well -- he seemed to be a most reasonable man, I don't think he'll cause any trouble. EVE Thank God for that. ALLENBY I'd like to keep an eye on him, though -- I suggested that he stay here for a couple of days. EVE Stay here? Is that necessary? ALLENBY Not necessary, but preferable. Don't worry, Eve -- he might be a breath of fresh air... EVE (a beat) ...Yes, he is different... He's very intense, and internal, don't you think? ALLENBY Perhaps... Actually, I found him to have quite a sense of humor. EVE Good. It might be pleasant for a couple of days.... Eve is silent for a moment, looks out to the darkness. EVE I guess I should go see Ben now. (turns) I'll see you at dinner. Eve leaves the room. INT. RAND'S CONVERTED BEDROOM - NIGHT Eve enters through heavy glass doors. BENJAMIN RAND, wearing a silk bathrobe, lies on a king-sized bed to one side of the room. Rand perks up as sees Eve crossing to him. He is in his sixties, maintains an inner strength and dignity despite the sapping effects of his illness. RAND (with weakness) ...Eve... Eve kisses him, holds his hand. EVE (with conviction) Oh, Ben -- I do miss you when I'm out... How are you feeling? RAND Tired... And I'm getting tired of being tired. Other than that, I'm doing very well. EVE I'm so glad... No headaches? RAND No, it's been a good day -- better than yours, from what I've been told. EVE You heard? RAND I may be a shut-in, but I do not lack for news. I'm sorry you had to go through all that. EVE Oh, it wasn't all that bad darling. We were fortunate that Mr. Gardiner turned out to be so reasonable. RAND Reasonable? Good, I'd like to meet a reasonable man. Why don't you ask this Gardiner to join us for dinner? EVE For dinner? Are you well enough for that? RAND (smiles) Hah!... Tell me the truth, Eve -- if I wait until I feel better, will I ever meet the man? (Eve is silent) Constance! CONSTANCE, in a nurse's uniform, appears in a side doorway. RAND Constance! I want new blood tonight, I'm getting up for dinner. CONSTANCE But, Mr. Rand... RAND Don't argue, tell Robert I want new blood! (turns to Eve) ...Ask him to dinner. Rand pulls Eve's hand close, kisses it. EVE (after a beat) ...I ran into Senator Jansen at lunch today and he all but ignored me... And it's starting to happen a lot lately... since you've been sick. RAND Dammit, there's no excuse for that. I'll call him tomorrow. EVE Thank you, darling. INT. RAND MANSION - FIRST FLOOR HALLWAY - NIGHT The elevator door opens to reveal Wilson with Chance in the wheelchair. CHANCE (as Wilson wheels him out) ...Thats is a very small room. WILSON (laughs) Yes sir, I guess that's true -- smallest room in the house. CHANCE (glancing around) Yes. It seems to be. Wilson takes this as another joke, chuckles as he wheels Chance toward Rand's hospital room. INT. RAND'S HOSPITAL ROOM - NIGHT A glass-enclosed room, next to Rand's bedroom, filled with the very latest in hospital emergency equipment. CONSTANCE and another nurse, TERESA, stand by as Rand is being given a transfusion. Rand lifts his head as Wilson wheels Chance into the room. RAND Welcome to Rand Memorial Hospital, Mr. Gardiner. CHANCE (looks around room) ...I see. Wilson pushes Chance to the X-Ray machine, where BILLINGS, a Black technician helps him onto the table. CHANCE (inhales deeply) I feel very good in here. RAND That's the oxygen! When I first got sick I had it all glassed in so I could have a little extra oxygen pumped in, keeps my spirits up. Chance is now flat on his back as Billings lines up the X- Ray camera. CHANCE You must be very sick. RAND Aplastic anemia, Mr. Gardiner -- aplastic anemia. Failure of the bone marrow to produce red blood cells... Not a damn thing they can do about it. Oh, they can make me comfortable, prolong my life with steroid therapy and transfusions... But what makes my blood boil, what little I have left, that is, Mr. Gardiner -- is that it's generally a young person's disease... Here I am, getting on in years and about to die of a young person's disease... CHANCE (smiles at Rand) I've never seen anything like this on television. BILLINGS Please, hold still, Mr. Gardiner. CONSTANCE You too, Mr. Rand, you must stay quiet. RAND (lays his head back) ..You will join us for dinner, won't you, Mr. Gardiner? CHANCE Yes. I am very hungry. RAND ...So am I, my boy -- so am I. Chance stares at Billings, reacts to him being black. CHANCE Do you know Raphael? BILLINGS No sir, I don't believe I do. CHANCE Oh. I have a message for him. BILLINGS Yes, sir. CHANCE A black man gave me the message. BILLINGS Well, I still don't believe I know the man, Mr. Gardiner. Now, please hold still. INT. RAND DINING ROOM - NIGHT The dining room is immense, a 75-foot ceiling, huge fireplaces. Allenby, Eve, Rand and Chance (both in wheelchairs) sit around the table. THURMAND, a waiter, and MARIANNE, a waitress, enter carrying trays of food. Eve turns to Chance. EVE I do hope your injury won't prevent you from attending to business, Mr. Gardiner? CHANCE No. It won't do that. EVE ...Would you like us to notify anyone for you? CHANCE No. The Old Man died and Louise left. EVE Oh. I'm very sorry. Well, if you have a need for any of our facilities, please don't hesitate to ask. RAND Do you need a secretary? CHANCE No, thank you. My house has been closed. RAND Oh, you mean to say that your business was shut down. CHANCE Yes. Shut down and locked by the attorneys. RAND What'd I tell you?... I know exactly what you mean. Today the businessman is at the mercy of kid-lawyers from the SEC. All they want to do is regulate our natural growth! ALLENBY It's happening to everyone, I'm afraid. The way things are going they'll probably legislate the Medical Profession, as we know it, right out of existence. CHANCE Yes. Right out of existence. RAND And it's a damn shame -- it's all happening too fast... (sighs) What are your plans now, Mr. Gardiner? Or may I call you Chauncey? CHANCE Yes. Chauncey is fine. RAND And I'm Ben. ALLENBY (smiles to Chance) Robert. EVE (also smiles) ...Eve. RAND So tell me, Chauncey, just what are your plans? CHANCE I would like to work in your garden. EVE (laughs) Oh, I know exactly what you mean. I sometimes enjoy puttering around myself, such a pleasant way to forget one's troubles. RAND I never had a feel for it myself... But, Eve -- why don't you show Chauncey our gardens tomorrow... (to Chance) They're quite lovely. EVE Well, it'll have to wait until I get back from Boston... Unfortunately, my morning will be taken up by another one of those charity events. CHANCE I am a very good gardener. RAND Isn't that what a businessman is? A gardener? A person that makes flinty soil productive with the labor of his own hands, who waters it with sweat from his own brow, and who creates a place of value for his family and community? Yes, indeed, Chauncey, a productive businessman is a laborer in his own vineyard. CHANCE I know exactly what you mean, Ben. The garden that I left was such a place. But I don't have that any more... (points to ceiling) ...All that's left for me now is the room upstairs. RAND Now, wait a minute, Chauncey -- you have your health... for God's sake don't give up on yourself! You have to fight! You can't let those bastards keep you down! I don't want to hear any more from you about the 'Room Upstairs.' That's where I'm going soon. There is a long pause. Chance looks up, then smiles at Rand. CHANCE It's a very pleasant room, Ben. RAND (laughs) Yes, I'm sure it is. That's what they say, anyway. Another period of silence. The servants bustle around the room as Allenby studies Chance. INT. RAND'S POOL ROOM - NIGHT Allenby is shooting pool. Rand is offering Chance a cigar from a humidor. RAND Have one of these, Chauncey -- they're Cuban. CHANCE Thank you, Ben. Chance examines the cigar, does not see Rand clip the end off his own. RAND It's one thing Robert can't keep me from. I've enjoyed a cigar as long as I can remember. Rand turns the cigar clipper to Chance. As Chance tries to figure out the clipper, the flame from an ornate lighter catches his eye and Chance watches intently as Rand lights his own cigar. RAND ...You know, Chauncey, there are thousands of American businessmen, large and small, that share your plight. I've been concerned with the situation for some time now. (hands lighter to Chance) ...I'd like to offer the decent 'gardeners' of the community a helping hand. They've been harassed long enough by inflation, excessive taxation, unions, all sorts of indecencies... Allenby watches Chance as he first tries to light the lighter, then tries to light the unclipped cigar. RAND After all, they are our strongest defense against the pollutants that threaten our basic freedoms and the well-being of our middle class. So I've been thinking about beginning a financial assistance fund... Tell me, Chauncey, would you have any thoughts on such a program? CHANCE (puffing, trying to light cigar) No, Ben. RAND (a smile) Reluctant to speak, eh, Chauncey? Well, I can understand that. When a man loses everything, anger has a tenancy to block out reason for a time. Just give it some thought, work with the idea, I'm sure you'll have plenty to say in a few days. Chance puts the unlit cigar in the ashtray, smiles at a most curious Allenby. INT. MANSION - ELEVATOR - NIGHT Wilson stands behind Chance in the wheelchair. Chance glances slowly around the elevator. Suddenly, Wilson breaks out into laughter. WILSON ...Sorry, sir... I thought you were going to come out with another one of your jests about the elevator... Excuse me, sir... The elevator stops, the door opens. INT. MANSION - THIRD FLOOR HALLWAY - NIGHT Wilson wheels Chance out of the elevator. CHANCE ...Hmmm... Elevator. WILSON (laughs again) ...Yes sir -- elevator! Wilson stops laughing as he notices Eve coming toward them. EVE Chauncey, I wanted to tell you how dreadful I feel about your leg, but how delighted I am that you are staying with us. CHANCE Thank you, Eve -- I like this house very much. EVE ...And Ben is just mad about you -- you've lifted his spirits so -- it's just... Well, it's just a real pleasure, your being here... CHANCE Ben is very ill, Eve -- I've seen that before. EVE Yes... I know Chauncey. CHANCE I like Ben very much... He reminds me of the Old Man... EVE He does...? CHANCE Yes. Are you going to leave and close the house when he dies? Eve is not prepared for such a question. EVE ...Why... No, I don't think so... CHANCE That's good. Chance smiles at Eve and there is a moment of silence before Eve moves away. EVE ...Good night, Chauncey. CHANCE Good night, Eve. Wilson wheels Chance toward the guest room. EXT. FRONT OF RAND MANSION - MORNING Chance comes out of the front door, walking with a limp for his first view of the Rand grounds. The attendant, Lewis, hurries to Chance. LEWIS Did you want a car, sir? CHANCE Yes. I would like a car. LEWIS Yes, sir. Lewis goes to his post, picks up a phone. As Chance looks at the surroundings, Allenby and Wilson, with Chance's wheelchair, come out of the house. ALLENBY Chauncey, there you are. What are you doing on that leg? CHANCE It's fine today, Robert. ALLENBY Shame on you, Chauncey -- you should let me be the judge of that. Please, sit in the chair. Wlison pushes a wheelchair to Chance, he sits. ALLENBY (checks leg) I swear, Chauncey, between you and Benjamin, I've got my hands full... (examines Chance's calf) ...Say, that is coming along, the swelling has gone down considerably... A limousine pulls up to the front of the mansion, waits for Chance. ALLENBY (continues examining) ...Benjamin has been hounding me to allow him to address the annual convention of his Financial Institute today, but obviously, the strain would be impossible... How about here, Chauncey, any soreness? CHANCE Hardly any, Robert. Lewis, the attendant, interrupts. LEWIS Your limousine, sir. CHANCE Oh, thank you. ALLENBY ...Are you going somewhere? CHANCE No, Robert. ALLENBY (a beat) ...Oh... Anyway, the President offered to sit in for Ben at the convention, quite a nice gesture. He's due here soon, I believe. CHANCE Yes, Robert. I know about the President. ALLENBY (mildly surprised) ...Oh? You've heard? CHANCE Yes. Ben called me. He wants me to meet the President. ALLENBY He does, does he? CHANCE Yes, Ben asked me to be in his room at ten o'clock. ALLENBY Why, that's terrific, Chauncey. CHANCE How do I know when it's ten o'clock? A long reaction from Allenby, then he looks at his watch. ALLENBY ...It's five of, you'd best get on in there. CHANCE Thank you, Robert. Wilson begins to push Chance. CHANCE I would like to walk today. ALLENBY Hell yes -- walk. You're meeting the President, aren't you? CHANCE (gets out of chair) Yes. I like to watch him on television. Allenby, a bit puzzled, watches as Wilson opens the front door for Chance. INT. RAND'S ROOM - MORNING Rand is in an easy chair, dressed for his meeting with the President. The two nurses are nearby. Rand smiles as Chance is shown into the room by Wilson. RAND Chauncey, up and around this morning, are you? CHANCE Yes, Ben. I like to walk. RAND Well, that's good news, my boy. CHANCE You're looking much better today, Ben. RAND Hah! It's all makeup, Chauncey... I asked nurse Teresa to fix me up, I didn't want the President to think I was going to die during our talk. CHANCE I understand. RAND No one likes a dying man, my boy -- because few know what death is. All we know is the terror of it. But you're an exception, Chauncey -- that's what I admire in you, your marvelous balance. You don't stagger back and forth between fear and hope -- you're a truly peaceful man. CHANCE Thank you, Ben. (looks at Rand closely) ...Nurse Teresa did a very good job, Ben. The nurses turn, look at Chance. INT. RAND MANSION - THIRD FLOOR HALLWAY - MORNING Allenby gets off the elevator, stands and thinks for a moment, then heads off down the hallway in the direction of Chance's room. EXT. FRONT RAND MANSION - MORNING Perkins is at the head of eight servants lined up on the front steps. Two black PLYMOUTH SEDANS pull up and EIGHT MEN in grey business suits get out. One of them, WOLTZ, goes directly to Perkins. WOLTZ Good morning, Perkins. PERKINS Good morning, Mr. Woltz, nice to see you again. WOLTZ Thank you. How have you been? PERKINS Fine, thank you. (hands Woltz paper) We have an additional guest with us today, Mr. Chauncey Gardiner. WOLTZ (reads list) I see... (turns to other men) Okay, let's go to work. The eight servants pair up with the eight men in suits and go into the house. INT. RAND'S ROOM - MORNING Chance watches television as Rand speaks. RAND Yes, when I was younger I had thoughts about public office... But I found, Chauncey -- that I was able to contribute more as a private citizen... Of course, my wealth provided me with considerable influence, but I've tried, believe me, not to misuse that power... It's extremely important, Chauncey, that you don't allow yourself to become blinded to the needs of the country even when the temptations are strong. I've been labeled a 'kingmaker' by many, but I have tried to stay open to the voices of the people... I have tried to remain honest to myself... CHANCE (changing channels) ...I see, Ben. INT. RAND MANSION - A HALLWAY - MORNING One of the servants accompanies Secret Service Agent RIFF as he knocks on each door, checks inside, then moves on. EXT. FRONT RAND MANSION - MORNING Lewis picks up his phone and dials as he sees the President's motorcade come through the far gate. LEWIS (into phone) The President is arriving now, Mrs. Aubrey. INT. RAND MANSION - MRS. AUBREY'S OFFICE - MORNING MRS. AUBREY is Rand's executive secretary, but her office is the Nerve Center of Rand Enterprises. MRS. AUBREY (on phone) Very good, Lewis, thank you. Mrs. Aubrey clicks off, pushes another button. INT. RAND'S ROOM - MORNING Rand smiles at Chance as the phone buzzes. RAND He's here. (into phone) Yes, Mrs. Aubrey? (listens) Fine. Show the President to the library, we'll be along in a few minutes. Rand hangs up the phone, turns to Chance with a twinkle in his eyes. RAND It's an old habit that goes along with power -- keep them waiting... Teresa brings Rand's wheelchair to him. RAND (stands, very week) Not now, Teresa. I'm seeing the President on my own two feet. TERESA But, Mr. Rand... RAND (puts an arm around Chance for support) Shall we go, Chauncey? CHANCE Yes, Ben. That's a good idea. Rand walks slowly, clings to the limping Chance tightly as they leave the room. EXT. HALLWAY - MORNING The President and his entourage are seen on their way to the library as Rand and Chance enter and stop in front of Mrs. Aubrey's office. RAND Mrs. Aubrey, have you received the papers on the Caracas agreement? MRS. AUBREY Yes, sir. They're ready for you to sign. RAND Excellent. (as they move away) A good woman, Mrs. Aubrey. CHANCE I agree, Ben. They shuffle off down the hallway and are met immediately by Woltz and and another agent, Barker. Both carry small metal detectors. WOLTZ Good morning, Mr. Rand. RAND Woltz... (nods toward Chance) This is Mr. Gardiner. WOLTZ (indicates detector) Just a formality, Mr. Gardiner. Barker passes the detector over Rand as Woltz checks Chance. RAND Good thing we're not in our wheelchairs, you boys would have a devil of a time. CHANCE (as Woltz finishes) Thank you very much. INT. RAND LIBRARY - MORNING A somewhat nervous PRESIDENT waits for Rand and Chance. When they enter, he goes to Rand with both hands outstretched. PRESIDENT Ben! RAND ...Mr. President, how good to see you. PRESIDENT It's so good to see you too, Ben, you look terrific! RAND (with a look to Chance) Thank you, Mr. President. Let me tell you, your visit has raised my spirits... PRESIDENT Well, I've missed you, my friend. (guides Rand to chair) Here, sit down, get off your feet. As Rand sinks into the chair, Chance approaches the President with both hands outstretched. CHANCE Good morning, Mr. President. PRESIDENT (smiling) ...Hello. RAND Oh, Mr. President, I'd like you to meet my dear friend, Mr. Chauncey Gardiner. Chance and the President exchange a two-handed handshake. The President reacts. CHANCE You look much smaller on television, Mr. President. PRESIDENT (a beat) ...Oh, really... RAND (smiling) You will find that Chauncey does not bandy words, Mr. President. The President gives Chance a look, then laughs. PRESIDENT Well, Mr. Gardiner, that's just fine with me -- I'm a man that appreciates a frank discussion... Be seated, please, Mr. Gardiner... CHANCE (sitting) Yes, I will. PRESIDENT (also sits) Now, Ben, did you happen to get a chance to go over... Chance reacts to the mention of his name, interrupts. CHANCE Yes? There is a beat as the President look at Chance quizzically, then he continues. PRESIDENT ...I just wonder if you had gone over my speech, Ben. RAND Yes, I did. PRESIDENT ...Well? RAND Overall -- pretty good. But, Mr. President, I think it's very dangerous to resort to temporary measures at this stage of the game. PRESIDENT Well, Ben... I... RAND I sympathize with you and, I know how difficult it is to be straightforward, but I'm telling you right now, Bobby -- your position on this is going to cause more dissension that you want or might even be able to stand. INT. CHANCE'S ROOM - MORNING Allenby is searching through Chance's clothes looking for something. There is a knock at the door, Allenby pulls back from the closet as Riff opens the door, looks inside. ALLENBY Oh... Hello. RIFF (entering) Good morning. I'm Riff, Secret Service. ALLENBY ...Yes. Of course. Allenby spreads his arms as Riff passes the metal detector over him. INT. LIBRARY - MORNING The President paces, is worried about what Rand is telling him. Chance smiles through it all. RAND ...There is no longer any margin for inflation, it has gone as far as it can. You've reached your limits on taxation, dependence on foreign energy is at a point of crisis, and, from where I see it, Mr. President, the so-called Free Enterprise System could be at the breaking point. PRESIDENT You don't think I should take that chance, huh? RAND Absolutely not. Chance has reacted to his name, but doesn't know what to say. The President sits, turns, to Chance. PRESIDENT Do you agree with Ben, Mr. Gardiner? Or do you think we can stimulate growth through temporary incentives? CHANCE (a beat) As long as the roots are not severed, all is well and all will be well in the garden. PRESIDENT (a pause) ...In the garden? CHANCE That is correct. In a garden, growth has its season. There is spring and summer, but there is also fall and winter. And then spring and summer again... PRESIDENT (staring at Chance) ...Spring and summer... (confused) Yes, I see...Fall and winter. (smiles at Chance) Yes, indeed. RAND (interrupts) I think what my most insightfult friend is building up to, Mr. President, is that we welcome the inevitable seasons of nature, yet we are upset by the seasons of our economy. CHANCE Yes. That is correct. There will be growth in the spring. PRESIDENT (pleased) ...Well, Mr. Gardiner, I must admit, that is one of the most refreshing and optimistic statements I've heard in a very, very long time. (he rises) ...I envy your good, solid sense, Mr. Gardiner -- that is precisely what we lack on Capitol Hill. (glances at watch) I must be going. (holds out hand to Chance) ...This visit has been most enlightening... Chance rises and shakes the President's hand. CHANCE Yes. It has. PRESIDENT ...You will honor me and my family with a visit, won't you? CHANCE Yes. I will. PRESIDENT Wonderful, we'll all look forward to seeing you. (turns to Rand) Is Eve around? I'd like to say hello. RAND No, she flew up to Boston for some charity event. She'll be sorry to have missed you. PRESIDENT I'm sorry, too. Well, Nancy wanted me to send along her best to the two of you -- and, Ben, I want to thank you for your time and thoughts. RAND Nonsense, Mr. President -- I thank you for coming to spend time with a dying man. PRESIDENT Now, Ben, I won't have any any of that. Why don't you listen to your good friend Chauncey -- this is a time to think of life! The President claps Rand's hand. RAND You're right, Mr. President -- I don't like feeling sorry for myself. PRESIDENT Take care of yourself, Ben. RAND You too, Bobby. PRESIDENT (as he turns to go, a smile to Chance) ...Chauncey... CHANCE ...Bobby... The President leaves the library and Chance turns to Rand. RAND (as the door closes) He's a decent fellow, the President, isn't he? CHANCE I'm glad he came, Ben. It was nice talking to the President. INT. RAND MANSION - HALLWAY - MORNING The President and his entourage are moving along toward the front door. One aide, KAUFMAN, walks next to the President. PRESIDENT Kaufman, I'm going to need information on Mr. Chauncey Gardiner's background. KAUFMAN (makes note of name) Gardiner, yes, sir. PRESIDENT And I'd like it some time today. KAUFMAN No problem, Chief. INT. RAND MANSION - TAPESTRY ROOM - MORNING Rand has an arm around Chance as the two of them walk. Behind them, Wilson and Perkins push empty wheelchairs. RAND (very weak) ...You know, Chauncey, there's something about you... You don't play games with words to protect yourself. You're direct... (they walk a few more feet in silence) You know what I was talking to you about last night? CHANCE (blankly) No, Ben. RAND Oh, sure you do, the financial assistance program for the businessman. (another beat) Well, I think you might be just the man to take charge of such an undertaking. I'd like you to meet with the other members of the Board so you can discuss the matter at greater length with them. CHANCE I understand. RAND And, please, Chauncey -- don't rush your decision. I know you're not a man to act on the spur of the moment. CHANCE Thank you, Ben. RAND And now, Chauncey, I'm afraid you must excuse me -- I'm very tired... Rand sits down in his wheelchair and Perkins starts off with him. CHANCE (as they go) I'm sorry that you are so sick, Ben. Chance watches after them for a moment, then his interest is taken by one of the large tapestries. EXT. RAND MANSION - MAIN GARDEN - DAY Chance and Eve walk through the garden. At one end, is a huge Victorian greenhouse, with smaller greenhouses next to it. Off to one side, stands an attractive stone house. Five young men work in one area, shoveling mulch. EVE There are over sixty thousand tulip bulbs planted here. It's quite a sight when they're blooming. Of course, the roses are beautiful, too. We have, I think, around twenty thousand bushes. (gestures to men working) ...We plant something different every year in that area... But I haven't decided what I would like this spring. What do you think, Chauncey? CHANCE I don't know. EVE Well, give it some thought. (indicates stone house) That's the gardener's house over there. Chance looks off to the two story stone house. INT. A GREENHOUSE - DAY Chance and Eve are in the middle of a huge potting greenhouse where hundreds of young plants are tended by four workers. CHANCE I like to watch the young plants grow. EVE It is wonderful, isn't it? CHANCE Young plants do much better if a person helps them. Eve looks at Chance as he inspects some of the flowers. She has decided to make a move. EVE ...Ben tells me the President was very taken with you this morning. Chance doesn't know what to say, continues inspecting the flowers. INT. VICTORIAN GREENHOUSE - DAY Chance and Eve move through a large and an extra lush greenhouse until they reach a long room filled with cacti. EVE (as they move) ...Chauncey... Last night you mentioned an old man, that died. Was a relative? Or an intimate friend? CHANCE (looking at greenhouse) He was a very wealthy man, he looked after me since I was young. EVE Oh, I see... Your mentor. CHANCE ...Mentor...? Eve takes his uncertainty as a reluctance to discuss the Old Man. EVE Forgive me, Chauncey -- I don't mean to pry. You must have been very close to him. CHANCE Yes. I was. EVE I'm sorry... (getting more to the point) ...And what about Louise? You mentioned that she had gone. Were you close to her also? CHANCE Yes. I liked Louise very much. She was his maid. EVE (relieved) Oh, his maid!... Stupid me, I thought perhaps she was someone that you may have been romantically involved with, or maybe your sister. CHANCE Oh no. She brought me my meals. EVE (pleased) Of course. Eve edges slightly closer to Chance. Chance edges slightly closer to the cacti, is fascinated by it. INT. RAND'S ROOM - DAY Rand is in bed, looking bad. Eve, Chance and Allenby are seated around him, the two nurses stand to one side. They all watch the President's address to the Financial Institute on TV. PRESIDENT'S VOICE ...I know that many of you believe that we are on the brink of the worst financial crisis in this nation's history. And there are some of you who would like to see us put mandatory freezes on prices and wages, and then call it a temporary measure. Well, that's exactly what I was going to do until this moment. But I have decided there are no temporary stop gaps. So I am going to re-think my position and find another solution. And, you'll be very pleased to know that your founder and chairman-of- the-board, Mr. Benjamin Turnbull Rand, agrees with me on this... (a beat) ...for once. There is applause and laughter from the audience. PRESIDENT'S VOICE (after applause) Chauncey Gardiner, Mr. Rand's close friend and advisor, was at our meeting this morning. I found Mr. Gardiner to have a feeling for this country that we need more of. He likened us to a garden... To quote Mr. Gardiner, a most intuitive man, 'As long as the roots of industry remain firmly planted in the national soil, the economic prospects are undoubtedly sunny.' Rand starts coughing, breathing heavily. Allenby and the nurses rush to his bedside. Allenby shoots a quick look to Eve and Chance. ALLENBY (motioning toward door) I think you should leave. Eve and an interested Chance leave the room as Allenby administers aid to Rand. PRESIDENT'S VOICE Gentlemen, let us not fear the inevitable chill and storms of autumn and winter, instead, let us anticipate the rapid growth of springtime, let us await the rewards of summer. As in a garden of the earth, let us learn to accept and appreciate the times when the trees are bare as well as the times when we pick the fruit. INT. RAND MANSION - HALLWAY - DAY Eve and Chance stand in silence near the palm court. Eve's eyes are swollen, red, she has been crying. She turns to Chance, reaches out, touches his hand. EVE (hesitates) ...I'm... (pause) ...I'm very grateful that you're here, Chauncey... (pause) ...With us... CHANCE So am I, Eve. Allenby comes out of Rand's room, his mood is serious. ALLENBY ...This has been an exhausting day for Ben... He's resting comfortably now. There's no cause for alarm... Mrs. Aubrey approaches. MRS. AUBREY Mr. Gardiner, I have a telephone call for you, Sidney Courtney. CHANCE ...Telephone call? MRS. AUBREY Yes, Sidney Courtney, the Financial Editor of the "Washington Post." Chance does not react. MRS. AUBREY (after a moment) Would you care to take it, sir? CHANCE Yes. Chance still does not move. Eve mistakes this for concern for herself. EVE I'll be all right, Chauncey -- you go ahead with Mrs. Aubrey... CHANCE Yes, Eve. You'll be all right. Chance follows Mrs. Aubrey. Eve watches Chance go, then turns to Allenby. EVE ...He's such a sensitive man, so considerate... INT. MRS. AUBREY'S OFFICE - DAY Three television sets are on. Mrs. Aubrey hands a phone to Chance, he looks at it, uncertain. CHANCE (after a moment, into phone) ...Hello. INT. WASHINGTON POST - COURTNEY'S OFFICE - DAY SID COURTNEY, a man in his fifties, wears a rumpled wool jacket, smokes a pipe. COURTNEY Hello, Mr. Gardiner. I'm sorry to disturb you, but I watched the President's speech at the Financial Institute today, and I wondered if you have any comments on the meeting that took place between Mr. Rand, the President and yourself. INTERCUT - MRS. AUBREY'S OFFICE/COURTNEY'S OFFICE - DAY CHANCE The President is a nice person. I enjoyed it very much. COURTNEY Good, sir. And so, it seems, did the President -- but we would like to have some facts; such as, uh... What exactly is the relationship between yourself and that of the First American Financial Corporation? CHANCE I think you should ask Mr. Rand that. COURTNEY Of course. But since he is ill I'm taking the liberty of asking you. CHANCE (watching three TV sets) Yes, that is correct. I think you should ask Mr. Rand that. Courtney doesn't understand but continues his questioning. COURTNEY I see. Then one more quick question, Mr. Gardiner. Chance hangs up the phone, watches the TVs. Courtney listens to the dial tone, then puts the receiver down. COURTNEY (to himself) No wonder he's so close to Rand... INT. MRS. AUBREY'S OFFICE - DAY Mrs. Aubrey puts a call on hold, speaks to Chance who is still intrigued by the three televisions. MRS. AUBREY Mr. Gardiner, I have the producer of the 'Gary Burns Show' on the line. CHANCE Yes, I have watched that on television. MRS. AUBREY Of course. They would like you to appear on the show tonight. The Vice- President was scheduled, but he had to cancel, and they asked if you would be interested. CHANCE Yes. I would like to be on television. MRS. AUBREY Fine. Chance turns back to the televisions. Mrs. Aubrey talks to the producer. MRS. AUBREY (into phone) Hello, Mr. Hull... Mr. Gardiner has agreed to do the show... Yes, I'll tell him. The show will be taped and then shown at ten o'clock, but he's to be there at seven. INT. EVE'S BEDROOM - EVENING Eve is on the phone while being attended to by a MANICURIST and a HAIRDRESSER. Eve talks to Sophie as if they weren't there as one wig is taken off, another is put on. EVE (into phone) ...Are you kidding? Of course, I'll bring him, I promise -- but I'll get Ben to suggest it... Hands off, Sophie -- this one's mine... No, I haven't done that, but give me time... Yes, be sure and watch the 'Burns' Show tonight, you'll see what I mean... Ben? Oh, he's okay -- he's got his ups and downs... INT. CHANCE'S ROOM - EVENING Chance wears a velvet bathrobe, watches TV. Wilson and Perkins lay out a suit, shirt, tie, etc. There is a KNOCK at the door. PERKINS Excuse me, sir. Perkins answers the door, it is Eve. EVE (entering) Chauncey, I wanted to wish you well. I know you'll be just smashing. CHANCE (rising) Thank you, Eve. EVE And Benjamin sends along his best wishes. CHANCE How is Ben feeling? EVE He's tired, Chauncey -- but he's going to watch you tonight. We'll both be watching. CHANCE That's good. I like to watch, too. EVE I know you do -- you and your television... (a pause) ...Good luck, Chauncey. Eve impulsively steps forward, kisses Chance on the cheek. Chance smiles at her. Eve returns the smile, then leaves the room. Chance sits back down, watches TV as Wilson and Perkins attend to his clothes with a whisk broom. INT. WASHINGTON POST - RESEARCH ROOM - NIGHT A woman, KINNEY, sits behind a stack of paperwork. She has a downcast expression as Sidney Courtney, followed by three staffers, enters the room. COURTNEY (to Staffers) Gardiner is laconic, matter-of-fact. The scuttlebutt is that he's a strong candidate for one of the seats on the Board of First American. (to Kinney) ...Kinney, what did you come up with on his background? KINNEY (after pause) ...Nothing. COURTNEY Skip the levity, Kinney -- what have you got? KINNEY (another pause) I realize this sounds banal -- but there is no information of any sort on Gardiner. We have no material on him -- zilch... The room is quiet. INT. TV STATION - CORRIDOR - NIGHT Chance is intrigued by the the surroundings as MORTON HULL guides him through the corridor. HULL Of course, Mr. Gardiner, your position in the financial community carries a lot of weight, but what caught Gary's attention was your down-to-earth philosophy. CHANCE I see. They walk a while through the corridor. HULL (making conversation) Do you realize that more people will be watching you tonight that all those who have seen theater plays in the last forty years? CHANCE Yes. It's a very good show. Hull takes Chance into the makeup room. EXT. AIRPORT - NIGHT AIR FORCE 1 taxies to the ground. INT. AIR FORCE 1 - NIGHT The President sits on a couch in one of the compartments on the jet. With him are six of his STAFF, Kaufman included. PRESIDENT What do you mean, no background? That's impossible, he's a very well known man! KAUFMAN Yes, sir -- we are aware of all that, but still, we haven't been able to... PRESIDENT (interrupts) He's an advisor and close personal friend of Rand's! For Christ sakes, they have volumes of data on Benjamin! KAUFMAN Yes, Mr. President, I plan on contacting Mr. Rand as soon as... PRESIDENT (again interrupts) I do not want Benjamin Rand disturbed! You have other ways of gathering information than to trouble a dying man. Use whatever agencies are necessary to put together a detailed history of Chauncey Gardiner, if you run into problems, alert Honeycutt. (he stands) Have it in my office at seven in the morning. (he starts for door) I've got to take a leak. KAUFMAN Right, chief. As the President goes to the Men's Room, two of the aides reach for telephones. INT. TV STATION - CORRIDOR/MAKEUP ROOM - NIGHT A PAGE comes through the corridor carrying a glass of water. He turns into the makeup room to reveal Hull sitting next to Chance in front of the mirror. The makeup man, COLSON, works on Chance as he watches the guest preceding him on a TV monitor that is reflected in the mirror. PAGE (gives Chance water) I thought you might need this about now, Mr. Gardiner. It gets real hot under these lights. CHANCE Thank you. I am very thirsty. The Page leans against the door jamb, smiles if anyone looks at him. HULL (briefing Chance) Now, if Gary wants to interrupt you, or ask you a question, he'll raise his left forefinger to his left eyebrow. CHANCE (to Colson) Nurse Teresa did Ben's makeup. COLSON (laughs) Oh? Did she do a good job? CHANCE Yes, very good. On the TV, GARY BURNS finishes with his guest and the band goes into a hot instrum