You mean you busted up?...For good? Bert must be crazy...You know, I, uh, I never did mind being around you, Mildred.

You don't, by any chance, hear opportunity knocking, do you?

Not too much ice in that drink you're about to make for me. I like Scotch.

[knowingly]

I know what you like.

With soda. You know I've always been a little soft in the head where you're concerned.

You surprise me.

No, this is on the level. Bert's gone. OK. I figure maybe there's a chance for me now. You know I wouldn't drop dead at the idea of marrying you.

Quit kidding, will you?

No, I figure maybe one of these days, you might have a weak moment.

If I do, I'll send you a telegram - collect.

Easy on the ice please, will ya?...No soda?

Sorry, Bert never had it around.

We'll take care of that...Say when.

Not for me, I'm not used to it.

Take care of that too.

You're pretty sure of yourself, aren't you?

You got to be educated, Mildred. You've just joined the biggest army in the world...the great American institution that never gets mentioned on the Fourth of July...a grass widow with two children to support.

Wally, why don't you make an effort to grow up?

Why don't you make an effort to forget Bert?

Maybe I don't want to.

But you'll be lonesome, Mildred. You're not the kind of a woman who can get along by herself.

Well I can try.

Oh come on, get wise. [He advances for a kiss]

[she pushes him away]

Wally! You should be kept on a leash. Now why can't you be friendly?

[grinning]

But I am being friendly.

Now I mean it. Friendship is much more lasting than love.

Yeah, but it isn't as entertaining. [He pulls her close and kisses her on the lips. She reacts with annoyance.]

Cut it out, Wally. You make me feel just like Little Red Riding Hood.

And I'm the Big Bad Wolf, huh? Naw, Mildred, you got me wrong. I'm a romantic guy but I'm no wolf.

Then quit howling! I know you romantic guys. One crack about the beautiful moon and you're off to the races.

Especially when it looks like a sure thing. [He tries to kiss her again]

Here we go again.

Did I do something wrong?

You'd better go Wally.

No dice, huh?

Good night.

Well, no dice, no dice. You can't shoot a guy for trying. I just thought maybe if...Ah, Mildred, I was only kidding. I wouldn't pull any cheap trick like that on you. You know that.

Yes, I know.

Why, I...

[She opens the door]

I said good night, Wally.

OK. OK. Round one goes to Mildred Pierce.

There won't be any round two.

We live in hope. I'll keep on trying.

I know. Once a week.

[He holds up two fingers]

Twice a week.