Sarah, Plain and Tall (1991 TV Movie)

Christopher Walken: Jacob Witting

Photos 

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Quotes 

• Jacob Witting : She was too young, small, seventeen when Anna was born. It took two days. Terrible, terrible pain. The doctor said it was because she was so small. Said, maybe we shouldn't have anymore. I thought, three years, I needed a boy. Then she wasn't there. Wasn't curled beside me in bed and I couldn't stop long enough to... I had a newborn, Sarah, a three-year-old, a farm, crops, animals, the house, but she just

  [voice breaks] 

  Jacob Witting : wasn't there. I, I couldn't stop long enough to, tell her good-bye, that I was sorry and that it was my fault. That I missed her, more than life itself.

• Caleb Witting : [after dancing with Sarah]  Papa! Jess took Sarah away!

  Jacob Witting : It's called cutting in, Caleb.

  Caleb Witting : You cut in! Take Sarah back!

• Jacob Witting : I expect... I expect you might feel lonely here.

  Sarah Wheaton : Anyplace can be lonely.

• Jacob Witting : The sheep have got to be out. They've got to eat! This happens! You can't let yourself get attached.

• Jacob Witting : I have received an answer.

  [reads aloud] 

  Jacob Witting : "Dear Mr. Jacob Witting: "I am Sarah Wheaton from Maine.

  [voice changes to Sarah] 

  Jacob Witting : I am answering your advertisement. I live with an older brother William, who is about to be married. I have always loved to live by the sea, but at this time, I feel a move is necessary and the truth is, the sea is as far east as I can go. My choice, as you can see, is limited. This should not be taken as an insult. I am strong and I work hard and I'm willing to travel, but I am not mild-mannered. If you should still care to write, I would be interested in your children and about where you live and you. Very truly yours, Sarah Elizabeth Wheaton... . P.S.

  [voice changes back to Jacob] 

  Jacob Witting : Do you have opinions on cats? I have one."

• Sarah Wheaton : I'm used to rolling up my sleeves working alongside my brother, doing what needs to be done.

  Jacob Witting : And I'm used to having things done a certain way.

  Sarah Wheaton : And I'm not used to being told what to do.

  Jacob Witting : I see that. Our ways, perhaps, are different, but...

  Sarah Wheaton : Ways can change.

  Jacob Witting : Stubborn, aren't you?

  Sarah Wheaton : And you're not?