Teacher chases boy through school halls.

Teacher: You there! Stop!

Teacher catches boy, takes him into room.

Pippi: What offence has this miserable young man committed?

Teacher: He was late for morning prayers.

Pippi: So was I.

School mass choir.

Petterson: I don't know my Latin, bet I get caught. I had misgivings earlier.

Jan-Erik: Where are they now?

Petterson: In my stomach. The runs I have!

Student: (To Bergström) Isn't my soprano voice pretty?

Bergström: Shut up, I'm revising! Stop bothering me! Volo, nolo, malo, cupio, juvio...

2nd Student: (To Kreutz) Look at Caligula, our favourite tormentor. Planning his next torture.

Kreutz: That'll be fun.

2nd Student: "Fun"? Sublime, I'd say.

Sandman: (To 3rd student) I was really down when my bird told me she's expecting.

3rd Student: Bugger me!

Sandman: I wasn't planning to be a family man. Not yet.

Students leave hall.

Teacher: No hymn book?

Student: Stolen.

Other Teacher: Don't lie. Go to the side.

Student: (To 2nd student) Black mark, do you think?

2nd Student: Trust me to get caught...

Latin class.

Caligula: I'll show no mercy. If you don't pay attention, I won't. I have no objection if you want to make it unpleasant. Please continue, Mr. Petterson.

Petterson: "After Fabius Maximus had thus decamped...the army marched on for ten days...whereupon it pitched a camp by the Igas River. The seconds-in-command were called to the consul's tent...where he told them...where he told them that...that, whereas it would not be impossible...the strategy would...that they, however..." I can't make this sentence out, sir.

Caligula: Then may I trouble you for the next one?

Petterson: "To the legates, this seemed...and later, privately, amongst themselves..."

Caligula: You haven't had time to open your books, Mr. Petterson. At least not in the right place... But I'll be lenient, and give you a chance to reflect. Please continue, Mr. Widgren.

Jan-Erik: "To the legates, this seemed a good statement."

Caligula: Is this what it says? Karling!

Karling: "Proposal."

Caligula: Continue!

Jan-Erik: "A good proposal. Whereupon they agreed...a large gift would be given to..."

Caligula: Don't you know your own language? We don't say "give a gift". That's bad Swedish. What do we say, Mr. Widgren? Aren't we quick-witted today...? Ström?

Ström: "Present a gift."

Caligula: Does that sound familiar, Mr. Widgren?

Jan-Erik: Yes, of course.

Caligula: Of course... Continue!

Jan-Erik: "They stepped before the consul and assured him they were ready."

Caligula: Thank you. That will be all. "Afford a person pleasure." Widgren!

Jan-Erik: Afficere aliquem laetitia.

Caligula: "Inspire a person with fear."

Jan-Erik: In...aliquem timore.

Caligula: "Inspire."

Jan-Erik: In...

Caligula: Well?

Jan-Erik: Inicere.

Caligula: Someone whispered. Genitive with impersonal verbs. Examples, Kreutz?

Kreutz: Miseret, paenitet, piget, pudet, taedet.

Caligula: "Pardon." Karlsson?

Karlsson: Parco, peperci, parsum, parcere.

Caligula: "Beat." Bokstedt?

Bokstedt: Plango...plantice.

Caligula: Wrong! Bergström?

Bergström: Plango, planxi, planctum, plangere

Caligula: Caesar hostem aggressus devicit. Widgren?

Jan-Erik: "Caesar defeated the enemy."

Caligula: Example of what?

Jan-Erik: Participial construction.

Caligula: Which one?

Jan-Erik: Participium coniunctum. Predicative attribute.

Caligula: Of what? Haven't you prepared for the lesson?

Jan-Erik: I have, sir.

Caligula: I believe you're lying, Mr. Widgren.

Jan-Erik: I'm not, sir.

Caligula: No...?

Jan-Erik: No.

Caligula: Is that so? Which verbs are in the genitive?

Jan-Erik: Verbs that mean remind, remember, forget, accuse, convince, judge, acquit, all transaction verbs.

Caligula: Example?

Jan-Erik: Aestimo.

Caligula: Is that so?

Jan-Erik: Facio, duco, puto.

Caligula: Really?

Jan-Erik: Cano. Mercor. Dono.

Caligula: Still claim you know your lesson?

Jan-Erik: I knew it yesterday.

Caligula: You're lazy, and pay no attention to me or my lessons.

Jan-Erik: That's not true.

Caligula: Isn't it? Open your book! Begin with today's exercise. Quick! Quick!

Jan-Erik: "The battle raged three days. Eventually the Romans routed Hannibal's forces. A great number were taken prisoner and brought before the consul."

Caligula: What is this? Using prohibited aids, Mr. Widgren?

Jan-Erik: I forgot to erase it.

Caligula: "Forgot to erase it"... But of course... Forgot to erase it... Cheating, sir! Cheating! Unfortunate, having to punish a pupil only two months before finals. A fortnight before the mock exams. Most unfortunate. Most. I'll speak to the Headmaster. I believe we'll see quite a bit of one another, Mr. Jan-Erik Widgren. (Bell rings) Good afternoon!

Caligula leaves room.

Petterson: He should be shot!

Student: Bastard!

Karling: Sadist!

Sandman: I can't wait to be rid of this misery. Boy, am I going to sleep then! Sleep and eat and forget all about this place. (To Jan-Erik) Let's get some tobacco.

Tobacco shop.

Sandman: Hello, my dear Carmen!

Bertha: Hello. What do you want? A toffee? You know I can't sell tobacco to schoolboys.

Woman: Bye then!

Sandman: Bye-bye, sweetheart! It's for my dad.

Bertha: Come again? Stop it!

Jan-Erik: Let's go, Sandman.

Caligula enters.

Sandman: I'll have this magazine, miss. Thank you. Good day.

Jan-Erik and Sandman leave.

Caligula: A pack of Havanas and a Hudson. Please, could you open it for me, I'm so clumsy. Have you cut yourself?

Bertha: It's nothing. Nothing at all. Anything else, sir?

Caligula: No, thanks. Charge my account, as usual. Good day.

The Widgren dinner-table.

Bror: You look off, Jan-Erik.

Mother: Bror, dear, you know you mustn't tilt your chair.

Bror: Jan still looks off.

Jan-Erik: Mind your own business!

Mother: He's only trying to be kind.

Jan-Erik: Kids should shut up while eating.

Father: How was school today?

Jan-Erik: All right, I guess.

Father: Is that the truth?

Jan-Erik: No.

Mother: Is it something unpleasant? (Phone rings) You answer it, Bror. Tell me what happened.

Jan-Erik: I got a black mark.

Father: For cheating.

Jan-Erik: How do you know?

Father: Your Latin master rang. Your teacher seems justified.

Mother: Really... How could you cause us such pain?

Jan-Erik: I didn't cheat. It was illegible. I wrote it during prep and forgot to erase it.

Father: It's most unfortunate, especially now, just before your finals.

Jan-Erik: It's not that bad.

Father: That's a matter of opinion. You seem to take it lightly. Your mother and I are very sad. In my opinion you have sullied your reputation. Shall we leave the table?

They all leave the table.

Jan-Erik: It's not as if I'm a criminal, is it?

Bror: Don't mind Dad. You know what he's like. Sandman's on the phone. He wants to go to the pictures.

At restaurant.

Sandman: I'm whacked. Wouldn't it be great to have a bed like the one in the film. And a nice bird.

Jan-Erik: You think?

Sandman: You bet! A table filled with grub and booze, that bed and a bird... I wouldn't get up for two weeks, I'd just eat and sleep and have it off with the bird.

Jan-Erik: You're a genuine materialist. I see things differently. I'm going to write and play the violin all the time, once I'm out of that hellish place. As for women and the rest... I'll have only one. And I'll love her.

Sandman: You don't have one now, do you? What about Lena?

Jan-Erik: I'm not in love with her.

Sandman: In love? You're nuts! I suppose you want one that's pure and innocent...

Jan-Erik: Yes.

Sandman: That kind don't exist.

Jan-Erik: Really?

Sandman: All women are tramps. And if they're not, they want to be. Nietzsche and Strindberg say so. (To waiter) Can we have the bill, please?

At Sandman's front door.

Sandman: Coming in?

Jan-Erik: I've got to study blasted Latin.

Sandman: That Caligula is a bastard.

Jan-Erik: I don't know... He's odd more than anything.

Sandman: When you turn up a stone, you find nasty animals underneath... You see, Caligula isn't a genuine swine. He's a nasty little venomous creep.

Jan-Erik: I don't believe a person can be all evil.

Sandman: You're still an adolescent. Wait, you'll see how rotten everything is. It's truly ingenious. Goodnight.

Jan-Erik: You must think me silly.

Sandman: Nonsense! You're the only one I can talk to. You can't help being an idealist, believing in innocent women. Goodnight.

Jan-Erik: See you.

Dark alleyway.

Jan-Erik: Are you all right?

Bertha: Never felt better in my life.

Jan-Erik: Miss Olsson! Can I help you?

Bertha: Oh, shut up! What are you staring at? Bothering a lady like this.

Jan-Erik: Don't be silly, you need help!

Bertha: Silly, eh...? Come closer, I'll give you...

Jan-Erik: Stop babbling. Where do you live?

Bertha: Let me go!

Jan-Erik: Stop shouting. Where do you live?

Bertha: None of your business.

Jan-Erik: Try to act sober, there's a policeman up there. So where do you live? (Looks in her purse) ...number 32, fourth floor.

At Bertha's apartment. Jan-Erik empties her brandy bottle into the sink.

Bertha: Leave my brandy alone! Leave me alone.

Jan-Erik: I'm going. Goodbye.

Bertha: No, don't go! I'm scared of being alone. He might come. I'm so terribly afraid of him. Please, don't go! Please!

Jan-Erik: Who are you afraid of?

Bertha: I can't tell you. He knows everything... He spies on me. And when he's here... Please, stay. I can't stand it any longer! I can't stand it. I know it... He'll be the death of me. Tormenting me... Stay with me. Please...

Jan-Erik: I can't.

Bertha: You can't? Why?

Jan-Erik: My parents will be mad.

Bertha: Mad? I suppose you have homework.

Jan-Erik: Yes, I do.

Bertha: Then go! Still here? What's it going to be?

Jan-Erik: I'd like to stay...

Bertha: But...?

Jan-Erik: I don't fancy you.

Bertha: Does it matter?

Jan-Erik: It does to me.

Bertha: Do I disgust you? Do I frighten you?

Jan-Erik: Yes...a bit.

Bertha: Don't be frightened.

Later that night.

Bertha: Are you leaving?

Jan-Erik: I have to. It's half past three.

Bertha: Come say goodbye. It was kind of you to stay.

Jan-Erik: Sure, very kind.

Bertha: Come back and see me often.

Jan-Erik: We'll see.

Bertha: Promise... You must promise.

Jan-Erik: All right, I promise.

Bertha: Promise Pelle [the cat], too.

Jan-Erik: Yes, Pelle, I'll come back.

Bertha: Promise...

Jan-Erik: Goodnight.

Erik goes home to his bedroom, to find his father waiting for him. His father leaves silently, disapprovingly.

At school.

Pippi: Has anyone seen Petterson?

Sandman: He's still in the classroom, sir.

Pippi: There you are, Petterson. I need to talk to you.

Petterson: I know.

Pippi: Come here. Petterson, Petterson... It's not easy to be form master when a thing like this happens. Why did you play truant, Petterson? What possessed you? Were you afraid of someone? Hadn't you prepared for the lesson? We really have to talk about it. Don't you see that? Well?

Petterson: You see, Caligula... I mean, the Latin master...

Pippi: Yes, I understand.

Petterson: He scares you.

Pippi: Scares you?

Petterson: Your mind goes blank, you're struck dumb. The others hate him. We're all scared. Most teachers you respect. But he enjoys frightening us. He's sadistic.

Pippi: Do you think so, Petterson?

Petterson: I don't know.

Pippi: So you played truant on Monday because it was double Latin.

Petterson: All your Sundays are ruined because of the Monday Latin lessons.

Pippi: And now you get a black mark, Petterson. Was it worth it?

Petterson: Yes.

Pippi: Are you that frightened?

Petterson: Please don't give me a black mark! It will spoil my oral. Please—I won't do it again. My parents will be so cross. I won't dare go home.

Pippi: I'm too indulgent. Good job I'm retiring next year. I can't be loyal to both the pupils and the teachers. But you just watch it, Petterson. Don't repeat it!

In a classroom.

Pippi: I think the boys are afraid of you.

Caligula: It won't do them any harm.

Pippi: You can't teach the pupils anything that way.

Caligula: No?

Pippi: Why not try to be a bit nicer? They're not bad. Lazy, yes. But they're good boys, really. At least I think so. You know...our work is complicated. Wouldn't it be best to meet them halfway? We shouldn't be enemies, we and the boys. The job is nerve-racking enough as it is.

Caligula: You mean I terrorize them? What are you trying to say?

Pippi: That a man of your learning shouldn't care so much for respect bred from fear.

Caligula: That's no concern of yours.

Pippi: It is! It's my class, and my boys.

Caligula: So they're harmed, are they?

Pippi: Yes. Not all, but some. The others just despise you. And laugh at you when your back's turned.

Caligula: How do you know?

Pippi: I know my boys.

Caligula: And I don't?

Pippi: No, you don't. If you did, you'd behave differently.

Caligula: Behave? Please do not use that word.

Pippi: This is not a matter of words. I thought you cared for your boys. But I'm just an old fool. I can see now that you don't care one jot for them.

Caligula: Really?

Pippi: Do you care for them? A teacher must care for his boys. If he doesn't, then what does he care about in life?

Caligula: I don't wish to be cross-examined! Who has taken map Number 40?

Pippi: But I wish to make it clear to you that you are unsuited to be a teacher! Maybe I am too, because I'm too kind. But I like my boys—and I'm not afraid of them!

Caligula: Are you saying I'm afraid? Nonsense!

Pippi: For you it's a fight to the death. "Frighten me, and I'll scare you to death!" I'll tell you that's wrong, as you can't see it for yourself.

Caligula: Where is map Number 40?

Pippi: Stand still, and calm yourself. Just listen to me. I'm old enough to be your father. Our profession is a vocation. It means to have a calling, something that comes naturally. Your academic qualifications and years of service alone don't make you a teacher. You don't know the first thing about boys! You don't put your heart into your work. A bit of kindness and understanding. But you don't have enough of these to feed a flea! If you were unique, it wouldn't be so bad. You can be found in all schools. Not only in schools, but everywhere! A tormentor of human beings, that's what you are!

Caligula: Listen to me... I have been ill...very ill. My nerves are still not quite recovered. The curriculum is demanding and hard. I'm impartial. I don't cosset or indulge. I work objectively. I will not change because you have stumbled on some nervous imbecile who has complained! Where is that map?

Pippi: Oh, sorry, I have it. Good day!

In a classroom.

Caligula: Is Widgren here?

Petterson: No.

Caligula: Where is he?

Petterson: He's fetching the notebooks.

Caligula goes into hall, looking for Jan-Erik.

Caligula: There you are.

Jan-Erik: Do you want me, sir?

Caligula: I want to speak to you. Let's sit down over there. Widgren... It's a shame there's bad blood between us. A great shame...very great. I don't want you to dislike me. You see...I've had a difficult time. And I've been ill. Very ill. I've been watching you, Widgren. You view me with aversion, almost animosity. Please don't.

Jan-Erik: I don't know what to say. I've nothing against you, sir.

Caligula: Yes, you have. You must stop seeing me like that. I forbid you! That will be all, Widgren.

Sandman arrives.

Sandman: What did our favourite sadist want?

Jan-Erik: He's The Devil himself!

Sandman: Who's the girl you were seen with in the street last week?

Jan-Erik: Oh, just a friend.

Sandman: I see, a girlfriend.

At Bertha's place. Jan-Erik plays violin.

Bertha: You play beautifully. You're so clever!

Jan-Erik: That was nothing. I've no time to practise these days. The adolescent's morning dream... To sit in his girl's room, eating biscuits.

Bertha: You can laugh.

Jan-Erik: I'm so happy right now. I don't care what happens. The twilight's beautiful. Why don't we go for a walk? Laugh at Caligula and all the other teachers!

Bertha: I don't know... Tell me... Do you like me just a little? You see, I... Do you see that star?

Jan-Erik: It seems to be hanging far below the sky on an invisible string.

Bertha: It's been great company to me. If only you knew how lonely I was.

Jan-Erik: Lonely... Who hasn't been lonely?

Bertha: I used to stand at the crossing, watching the trains. Please don't laugh. I used to think that one day I'd be on one. A sweet young woman...in a bell-shaped skirt and a funny hat, no luggage. Now you'd be there, too. Would you want to come? Nothing would frighten us any more.

Jan-Erik: You were so afraid before.

Bertha: Yes, I was.

Jan-Erik: Won't you tell me who he was?

Bertha: No, I can't. I just can't! He's tried to get in. I've heard him fumbling with his key in the new lock. He's phoned too. Sometimes I've felt him following me in the street. Let's not talk about that now. Let's have some tea.

Jan-Erik: My friend Sandman is a cynic and hates women. He's terribly sharp. He thinks I'm adolescent. Do you think so too?

Bertha: Not at all. I've never felt so good as with you.

Jan-Erik: Bertha... Have there been many before me?

Bertha: No, but you see... It was fun having them chase me.

Jan-Erik: Have you never been really in love?

Bertha: No.

Jan-Erik: Why not?

Bertha: Don't be stupid! No one ever wanted me. I wanted to live a little. And I thought that... Oh, never mind what. I was wrong, anyway.

Telephone rings. Jan-Erik picks up, gives phone to Bertha.

Bertha: (On the phone) I don't believe you. You're lying! You're only trying to scare me! (Hangs up) He's a beast! A beast!

Jan-Erik: Bertha! Who is he?

Bertha: You mustn't leave me. Do you hear me, my darling! Don't just sit there. Hold me... Don't let him come here. I'm so afraid.

Jan-Erik: What are you afraid of? Does he hurt you?

Bertha: It's not just that...

Later that night. Jan-Erik is leaving Bertha's apartment.

Jan-Erik: Don't turn the light on.

Bertha: Jan-Erik! Stay with me, please...

Jan-Erik: Don't be afraid. There are no ghosts.

Bertha: I've seen at least one.

Jan-Erik: That's dead and buried as of tonight.

Bertha: I'd like to believe it. Listen...I have something for you. It's a key to my door. You can come and go as you please.

Jan-Erik: Thanks, but what about my exams?

Bertha: I'm sure you'll do well.

Jan-Erik: I haven't done any work.

Bertha: I'll keep my fingers crossed.

Jan-Erik: I wonder which topics will come up? Damn!

He leaves. Bertha returns to her apartment and goes to bed. Her tormentor enters.

Bertha: No! No!

First day of exams.

Student: Now we'll pay for our years of neglect. We should be dressed up.

2nd Student: You're an old hand.

Student: Second time round. I'm no amateur. (Joins another group)

Petterson: There should be a drum roll.

Sandman: And we could all sing: "Fear not, little flock."

Student: Ssh! The Head.

Headmaster: Hot, isn't it?

Caligula: Yes, it's very hot.

Sandman: Look at them in their funeral clothes... Do you know why they all dress up to look like undertakers? They're shaky, you see. Today is their big day. They get puffed up with importance by the exams. They never get any further than the diploma. They don't get any bigger, it's their climax. It's a big occasion—for them.

Headmaster: Gentlemen, please take your respective seats. Could Bergman and Ström please come forward. Please check the unbroken seal. Thank you. Please be seated. Would Senior Master kindly distribute the papers when I say so? Please begin.

Jan-Erik arrives at Bertha's apartment.

Jan-Erik: What's the matter? You're drunk! What happened? Answer me! Who's been here? For God's sake, answer me! Bertha...tell me. You must tell me what's happened. You can't just stand there looking like that. Do you hear me? You know I'm very fond of you, don't you? You've been so kind to me. We've been so good together. Is it all over now? No fun being decent, was it? Answer me! Is it over? Is it?

Bertha: Yes. It's all over. He'll kill me. He sits there playing with his penknife. Speaking softly. He tells me such horrible things. Filthy, horrible things! Suddenly, he'll get nervous and start pacing the room. He has such horrid white hands, with hairy fingers.

Jan-Erik: Stop talking about the creep! I don't want to know who he is.

Bertha: A moment ago, you wanted to.

Jan-Erik: How did I get into this? I want to be left alone! Christ, I'm so fed up with it!

Bertha: With me too?

Jan-Erik: I don't know... It's as if I'd never known you. And you just broke up. Just as well—I wouldn't want to share you.

Jan-Erik leaves.

Classroom.

Student: One week to the finals. I wish it were all over!

Petterson: Only a week? It's crazy! I've heard the examiners are a mean lot.

2nd Student: I can't think in this heat.

3rd Student: The head swells so you can't get your cap on.

4th Student: All sense evaporates!

Sandman: It's all crap! Miserable, pointless, ridiculous crap!

Bergström: The Devil's coming!

5th Student: He looks odd.

Petterson: He always looks odd.

6th Student: You'll whisper, won't you?

Caligula: All present? Shut the windows! Widgren will begin today's translation.

Jan-Erik: I'm not prepared.

Caligula: Have you gone mad?

Jan-Erik: I didn't have the time. I was too tired. I was doing history half the night.

Caligula: Is that so? So, you were too tired? I see. Mr. Widgren was too tired. A peculiar explanation.

Jan-Erik: I study all I can.

Caligula: You pay no attention in my classes.

Jan-Erik: That's not true!

Caligula: Really? Anyone else who was too tired to prepare for today's lesson? No? In that case maybe we'll manage to put on our jackets. Mr. Widgren seems particularly delicate. Why is that?

Jan-Erik: I don't know. I do my best.

Caligula: You're lazy, Mr. Widgren. A bit pathetic. This is no place for weak boys. We're heading for exams. Haven't you understood that, Widgren? No. One day you'll understand, but it'll be too late then. Do you know what I think? I think you'll get poor grades in Latin. Very poor. I also think that you're too frail for the exam. It would be a baptism of fire. Not for you in your state. Not at all... Please begin, Petterson.

Mechanical toy bird.

Pippi: Can you imagine, a rascal in the third form put this on the floor in front of me during class. It hopped straight up to me, chirping all the while. What's so funny about that? What's this noise? Someone is making a noise.

Student: It was me, sir. Sorry.

Pippi: You see, I know you call me "Birdie." It's a nice name. I know teachers who are known by much worse. Close that Greek textbook, Sandman. Don't prepare for the next subject during my class. And don't think I'm too decrepit to spot you. Shame on you! A man of doubtful reputation... This set of essays contains two absolute howlers. Mr. Petterson will have to acknowledge paternity for one. He writes as follows: "The nomadic Laplanders never stay in one place for very long." Mr. Sandman...has a darker side. He consorts with gangsters and loose women. In a mixture of Maupassant and Zola, he writes... What's the matter, Mr. Widgren?

Jan-Erik: May I go home, sir?

Pippi: Of course! Aren't you well? Dear me, are you very ill?

Jan-Erik: No, I just feel a bit sick.

Pippi: What on earth...?

Father: I can't understand how he can be overworked. He hasn't worked much lately.

Doctor: School... There are other things than school. Aren't there, Mr. Widgren?

Father: What do you mean, Doctor?

Doctor: Oh, nothing in particular. As a doctor, you get to see the unpleasant side of school life. Thin and deformed individuals. (On phone) A taxi, please. Lopsided and warped, scrawny and undernourished, overworked... (On phone) Could I have a car for... What's the address?

Father: Number 11, Brahegatan.

Doctor: (On phone) Number 11, Brahegatan. For Dr. Nilsson. Sunken chests, eyes tired from reading, anaemia, even twisted sex lives... I beg your pardon. (On phone) Yes—Dr. Nilsson. It's not that strange, really. They sit on their bottoms, from eight in the morning to four in the afternoon. And after that they have homework. Does that make any sense? (On phone) Thank you so much. The curriculum gets more and more demanding. The teachers become narrow-minded specialists. Were the boys to learn all that's demanded, they'd be in the asylum. But they're not that stupid, our young ones. They do their best, with the help of a bit of trickery. That they still are in such good trim, I attribute to well-developed laziness.

Father: So you mean that cheating and truancy are justified?

Doctor: Certainly not. But it's a crying shame that boys should be driven to it to avoid exhaustion.

Father: They should learn to behave.

Doctor: I agree. But I doubt today's methods will allow that. Take good care of the boy. Let him stay in bed for a day or two. He looks like he's got the world's problems on his shoulders. Terribly hot, isn't it? Goodbye.

Doctor leaves.

Mother: Torsten, dear?

Father: Yes?

Mother: (To maid) Please be quiet, Selma.

Mother goes to Jan-Erik's room.

Jan-Erik: Mother?

Dream sequence.

Caligula: Which verbs are in the ablative absolute?

Bertha: You do care for me, don't you? I'm so afraid, dearest. Never leave me again. Never! Help me! Just help me!

Jan-Erik: Bertha! Bertha! Bertha!

Caligula: I have to put you to death. You are too weak in the dead languages. When you're dead you'll feel more at home.

Jan-Erik awakes.

Mother: My poor little darling! Mummy will help you... I'll help you get into bed, you can't lie on the floor. I'll help you up.

Bertha's apartment.

Caligula: You've guessed quite right. I am afraid. It's like I have a white, burning spot in my brain. It makes me conceive of things... But I frighten myself most of all. Like now... I came here to scare you. More brandy? (Pets cat) I've feared death only once. It was a cat, actually. Funny, really... (Cuddles cat) I've always been fond of cats. A big cat was basking in the sun in front of a house. I went up to it. I talked kindly to it. It rubbed itself against me and purred. I bent down and stroked its back. Suddenly, it bit my hand. It went berserk. It dug its twenty claws into my hand. It clung on, sinking its teeth into my hand. I'll never forget the panic. I think I screamed. Do you know what I did? I put the cat, hand and arm in a water barrel next to me. Like this... The cat clutched my arm. It drowned, but didn't release its grip. A doctor had to cut it loose. I still have the scars. Look! Look at the state of me!

Bertha: I don't want to!

Caligula: That's the way to be. Never lose your grip. If you don't bite, I will.

Bertha turns on radio.

Radio: According to observations, this occurs approximately one week later than in the South.

Bertha turns off radio.

Bertha confronts Jan-Erik in the street.

Bertha: I have to speak to you!

Jan-Erik: I suppose you can.

Bertha: Don't be angry with me.

Jan-Erik: I am angry with you. I want nothing to do with you.

Jan-Erik walks off. Caligula comes along and follows Jan-Erik.

Jan-Erik: Hello.

Caligula: Hello, Widgren. How are you? You were...

Jan-Erik: I'm well, thank you.

Caligula: So you know the girl from the tobacconist. Do you know her well, perhaps?

Jan-Erik: No.

Caligula: Not at all?

Jan-Erik: A little.

Caligula: Tell me...is she a nice girl, really?

Jan-Erik: I don't know. Why?

Caligula: Not many days left before the finals. Six, I believe. This heat is trying. Takes the life out of us all. Is it going to go on like this, I wonder?

Jan-Erik at home, studying.

Jan-Erik: Volo, nolo, malo...

He gets up, begins to play violin, stops, combs hair, leaves room.

Jan-Erik arrives at Bertha's apartment, knocks on door. No answer. He enters, looks around, sees Bertha lying in bed. He finds her dead. He hears a noise. He runs out into hall, finds Caligula hiding.

Caligula: I didn't do it!

Jan-Erik runs off.

Caligula: I didn't do it, I didn't do it... He'll report me... (He picks up phone and dials) Police...

Police arrive.

Caligula: I didn't do it.

Policeman: Was it you who rang?

Caligula: I didn't do it.

Policeman: What's your name?

Police station.

Inspector: Please, calm yourself, sir. I can't release you until the cause of death has been confirmed.

Caligula: This is crazy! I'm not a criminal! Do you really think I am? I'm not a criminal!

Inspector: Calm yourself, sir. Just drink this. (Nurse gives him water) It's just a formality. Come with me, you should lie down for a moment.

Caligula: I wouldn't hurt a fly. I'm so afraid, Inspector. I've been ill. You mustn't frighten me.

Inspector: Calm yourself, sir. Lie down and try to get some sleep. (They put him to bed) I'll call you as soon as the report comes in. I'll take these. (Removes his glasses)

Hospital.

Doctor: Terrible self-neglect. Don't know how one can drink oneself to death, but that's what she did.

2nd Doctor: Well, coupled with a weak heart...

Doctor: And malnutrition, yes. Better call the police, so that dissolute schoolmaster can go home.

2nd Doctor: Will do.

Police station.

Inspector: You may go, sir. Quite a relief, isn't it? I'm so sorry we had to do this to you. Goodbye, sir.

Caligula: Goodbye, officer.

School.

Headmaster: (To Caligula) Can you wait outside, please? (To servant) Show Widgren in. Well, this is a sorry business, Widgren. The Latin master has made a number of serious charges against you. I've noted them, and would like to hear your version. Sit down, Widgren. One morning your Latin master meets you with a girl, Bertha Olsson. She worked at the tobacconist. Knowing the girl is of questionable reputation...he seeks her out to ask her to stay away from you, and to remonstrate against her bad behaviour. She laughs at him, swears at him and behaves improperly. She was drinking brandy. Suddenly, she clutches her heart and falls down dead. Soon thereafter, before he had recovered from the shock, you arrive, opening the door with your own key. Finding the girl dead, you accuse him of murder and rush off. Well, Widgren. What do you say to this?

Jan-Erik: Do you believe this, Headmaster?

Headmaster: I don't believe anything. That is...

Jan-Erik: Yes, it's true... I've been seeing a girl who may not have had the best reputation.

Headmaster: This, coupled with your cheating, would be enough to expel you. Do you realize that?

Jan-Erik: Yes, and I don't care.

Headmaster: However, that's not the only matter at hand. I want to know if the rest is true. I mean...how it happened.

Jan-Erik: So, you're not so sure?

Headmaster: Please answer my question. Please refrain from any personal reflections.

Jan-Erik: Would you repeat the question to the person who's made the charge?

Headmaster: I don't want to do that. I can't. Oh very well, I'll do it. (Lets Caligula in) Can you swear to it that your charges are in accordance with the truth? He has asked me to put the question to you in his presence.

Caligula: Why should I lie? It's true my statements cannot be checked. But why expel Widgren, other than for educational reasons?

Headmaster: Can't we try to solve this, for Widgren's sake?

Jan-Erik: (To Caligula) "Educational reasons!" You killed her!

Headmaster: Steady, Widgren!

Jan-Erik: You frightened her to death. Tormented her, got her drunk and tortured her! Like you torture all of us!

Caligula: I must protest!

Jan-Erik: You scared her to death! If I'm expelled, then he should be expelled a hundred times over! You old pervert!

Pippi: Pardon me...

Headmaster: What is it? Please, wait outside. Please...?

Pippi: Well, if you say so... (Leaves)

Headmaster: Enough now! Widgren, wait outside.

Jan-Erik punches Caligula.

Headmaster: Widgren! Have you taken leave of your senses, boy? Don't you realize I can't help you now?

Jan-Erik runs out.

Headmaster: I wonder which one of you is more guilty.

Caligula: What do you mean?

Headmaster: We'll be forced to commit an injustice. It's inescapable. Unless you'd consider withholding your charges.

Caligula: No, I'll not consider that.

Headmaster: Will you have it on your conscience to ruin the boy's future?

Caligula: Ha! (Walks out)

Students run down stairs, passing Jan-Erik.

Sandman: Hurry, we're trying on the graduation caps!

Jan-Erik: I won't be needing one.

Pippi: Widgren! Widgren! Widgren!

At the Widgren home.

Mother: Why didn't you come to us, my boy? Why didn't you tell us?

Jan-Erik: Why...?

Father: Expelled... Like your mother says, why didn't you tell us?

Jan-Erik: What would I have said?

Father: I suppose your mother and I deserve this. We thought... Oh, never mind

Jan-Erik: Say it, Father. You thought you'd be proud of me. Isn't that it?

Father: Let's not talk any more about it. What's done is done. We shall have to try to get over it.

Jan-Erik: Yes, you must.

Father: What's this tone?

Jan-Erik: It's always you and you! You're offended, you're disappointed. You have to get over it. What about me? You couldn't care less! I don't care about you. You've never cared about me! I'm not staying! You won't have to be ashamed of me.

Father: You're all talk.

Jan-Erik: You don't believe me, Father? (Leaves room)

Mother: (To Father) How could you? (Leaves room; to Jan-Erik) Don't go. My darling boy, you mustn't go. You mustn't! Everything will be all right. Please don't go!

Jan-Erik walks out.

Students stand outside school in rain.

Teacher: (Shouting, waves) Everyone has passed!

Students line up in school room.

Headmaster: This time of your life is now at an end. You will step out and see what life has to offer. I hope that you will do your old school credit. Try to see it as it is: A strict fosterer. An exacting mentor. Perhaps not always just. Perhaps not all it should be. But it has one thing that I dare vouch for: An honest and sincere desire to mould you... (Thunder and lightning outside) An honest and sincere desire to mould you into good, able and useful citizens. It is my sincere hope that it has succeeded in this important task. All that now remains are the farewells. We, your old taskmasters, wish you happiness and success. I hardly need tell you that, do I? All the best, Bergman. All the best, Kjellgren... (Shakes hands with each student)

Caligula shakes hands with students.

Sandman: (To Caligula) Swine!

Students run down stairs and out into the rain. They sing. Caligula waves out window. Jan-Erik, stands alone outside, hiding. He leaves the scene.

Church. Bertha's coffin is removed. Jan-Erik and Sandman stand waiting at the cemetery.

Sandman: What will you do now?

Jan-Erik: I don't know. I feel like I'm going mad. I need to think.

Sandman: You're desperate, old boy. Tell me about it.

Jan-Erik: No...

In town.

Jan-Erik: Bye, then.

Sandman: Are you going to live here, in Bertha's room?

Jan-Erik: Where else? Thanks for coming. She had a hard time. You see, I...

Sandman: I understand.

Jan-Erik: Do you really?

Sandman: You know, all that Nietzsche and Strindberg... All that rubbish I've said about women. I don't believe it any longer. You see, I've become... Why don't you come with me? Don't live here alone.

Jan-Erik: No, I want to be left alone. Bye, now.

Bertha's apartment. Jan-Erik sits on chair, covers himself with blanket, turns on radio, smokes.

Headmaster: Is that you, Widgren?

Jan-Erik: Yes.

Headmaster: Do you mind if I come in?

Jan-Erik: No.

Headmaster: Could we have some light, perhaps? I've been wanting to talk to you. Sandman told me where you were, so I thought I'd come by. You didn't like school, did you? Or rather, you didn't quite fit in. Isn't that so? I can understand that. Our school system doesn't suit everybody.

Jan-Erik: What do you want? Criticizing school won't help.

Headmaster: I'll tell you what I want. I want you to go home to your parents. They're so worried.

Jan-Erik: Are they?

Headmaster: Yes, they are. I'd like to help you if I can.

Jan-Erik: No one can help me.

Headmaster: Not with your inner problems. Like everyone else, you'll have to bear that all on your own. But there's something else that needs sorting out, for which I feel partly responsible.

Jan-Erik: Oh...and what's that?

Headmaster: You've suddenly broken away from society. You're running away in sheer desperation. However strange this may sound, it's the fault of your old school. I'd like to make up for it. No, I can't reverse the expulsion. But I promise to do all I can to help you in other ways. I have to try to stop you. Bring you back amongst people. Do you understand, dear boy? Come and see me at my house tomorrow. We'll talk more then.

Jan-Erik: All right, but please go now.

Headmaster: Promise you won't do anything foolish. Well, here... Here's some money. Get a hotel room for the night. Try to get some sleep. Time passes... You'll be able to look back on this without pain. Maybe you'll even learn from it. You see, I believe that there is a meaning to everything that happens. Even though it may seem unlikely in our eyes. Goodbye, my boy.

Leaves handkerchief on table. Jan-Erik takes handkerchief and drops to his knees, sobbing.

Jan-Erik wakes up. Picks up cat, leaves apartment. Caligula is waiting in the hallway.

Jan-Erik: What are you doing here? Maybe you want to go inside... Here's the key. Take it...

Caligula: The Headmaster was here. What did he say?

Jan-Erik: We didn't talk about you.

Caligula: I know he said something about me. Widgren... I didn't want this to happen. Listen to me. I've been ill. I still am very ill. I can't help it. You must know I didn't do it deliberately. I have nobody. Four walls, roof, bookshelves, bed, desk, a cleaning woman, schoolboys and waitresses! But no one that wants me.

Jan-Erik: May I go now?

Caligula: Nobody wants anything to do with me. They laugh at me or run away. They're afraid of me, too. Yet, I'm the one who's most afraid. (Hallway goes dark) Turn on the light Widgren! You mustn't leave me alone! Widgren! Turn on the light! Stay with me!

Jan-Erik leaves, walking out into the sun.