Sense and Sensibility screenplay. Based on the novel by Jane Austen. NORLAND PARK - MR DASHWOOD'S BEDROOM - NIGHT In the dim light shed by candles we see a bed in which a MAN (MR DASHWOOD, 52) lies, his skin waxy, his breathing laboured. Around him two silhouettes move and murmur, their clothing rustling in the deathly hush. A doctor. MRS. DASHWOOD. She is holding his hand, her eyes never leaving his face. MR DASHWOOD (urgent) Is John not yet arrived? MRS DASHWOOD We expect him at any moment, dearest. MR DASHWOOD looks anguished. MR DASHWOOD The girls--I have left so little. MRS DASHWOOD Shh, hush, Henry. MR DASHWOOD Elinor will try to look after you all, but make sure she finds a good husband. The men are such noodles hereabouts, little wonder none has pleased her. They smile at each other. MRS DASHWOOD is just managing to conceal her fear and grief MRS DASHWOOD But Marianne is sure to find her storybook hero. MR DASHWOOD A romantic poet with flashing eyes and empty pockets? MRS DASHWOOD As long as she loves him, whoever he is. MR DASHWOOD Margaret will go to sea and become a pirate so we need not concern ourselves with her. MRS DASHWOOD tries to laugh but it emerges as a sob. An older MANSERVANT (THOMAS) now enters, anxiety written on every feature. THOMAS Your son is arrived from London, sir. MR DASHWOOD squeezes his wife's hand. MR DASHWOOD Let me speak to John alone. She nods quickly and he smiles at her with infinite tenderness.