Scotland Yard Investigator (1945)

Erich von Stroheim: Carl Hoffmeyer

Photos 

Quotes 

• Carl Hoffmeyer : You see, Henri, you and Jules are in this business to make money. I am not. I *have* money. My pleasure, my only desire, is to own art treasures money can NOT buy.

  Carl Hoffmeyer : [proceeds to show them some of these art treasures, hidden behind a secret wall] 

  Jules : I don't understand. What pleasure do you get out of it?

  Carl Hoffmeyer : Well, I suppose you'll think I'm crazy, but, you see, to sit quietly all alone at night, in front of treasures - which rightfully belong to the world at large - the only one allowed to admire their unsurpassed beauty, to know that I am the secret owner of a collection that even kings or maharajahs COULD NOT BUY!... THAT is the only satisfaction I get out of life. And I won't rest until I have the 'Mona Lisa.'

• Sam Todworthy : Well, well, well. If it isn't Mr. Hoffmeyer. I thought today you'd show up.

  Carl Hoffmeyer : Why?

  Sam Todworthy : Oh, I put two an' two together.

  Carl Hoffmeyer : And what did it add up to?

  Sam Todworthy : Oh, a jolly sight more'n four, if you know what I mean, *and* I think you do.

• Inspector Bob Cartwright : Do you mind if I examine *your* stick, Mr. Hoffmeyer?

  Carl Hoffmeyer : And what if I *do* mind?

  Inspector Bob Cartwright : I'm afraid I shall have to insist.

  Carl Hoffmeyer : In that case, help yourself.