almost run down by the car of Sammy Golden (LEE KIN-SOLVING), a cadet front a nearby military academy. Reenie's normal shyness vanishes with Sammy. Back home, Reenie tells her mother she's met a boy who likes her, then suddenly realizes she doesn't know his name or whether she'll ever see him again.

An intoxicated Rubin bursts in on Mavis' beauty shop, just as two customers, the Harper sisters are leaving, later, he passionately embraces Mavis and though she would like him as a lover, the romance goes no further.

It's the night of the country chub dance. Cora's sister, Lottie (EVE ARDEN) and her husband, Morris (FRAINK OVERTON), are having dinner at the Flood home. The wandering Rain returns during dinner with an apology for slapping Con. Another argument erupts with Cora admitting she can't make love at night after a day filled with dissent. The worry about money has driven a wedge between them.

Flirt arrives 'with two boys. Reenie's blind date turns out to be Sammy in full military uniform. After the children leave for the dance, Lottie urges Con to forgive Rubin. Lottie wishes she had a handsome and masculine husband and admits that Morris hasn't made love to her in over three years.

When Lottie and Morris leave, Cora slowly goes up the stairs into the darkness at the top. Loneliness is what she faces in the breakup of her marriage. Sonny, a frightened figure in his pajamas, awaits her. He, too, is terrified of being alone.

At the country club Reenie has a wonderful time with Sammy until they are caught kissing by the hostess, Mrs. Harry Ralston. Noting that Sammy has a Jewish name, Ilirs. Ralston points out the club is restricted. Once again, Sammy feels rejected and immediately drives Reenie home.


The next morning Reenie rushes to the hospital to see Sammy, who attempted suicide during the night. lie dies soon after Reenie's visit.

Cora calls on Mavis, who tells the unvarnished truth-that she has been in love with Rubin, but he hasn't shown any interest. Then Con first learns that Robin has lost his job. Meanwhile at the local hotel Rubin is being hired as a salesman for an oil drilling machinery comp any.

Rubin is surprised to find Cora waiting for him in the lobby. She regrets her constant nagging. They walk home together happily. At home Sonny is playing with a grimy little friend. Rain gives the boys a dollar for a movie so that he can be home alone with Con.

We have the feeling that then is nothing to fear in the Dark At The Top Of The Stairs, if somebody is climbing them with you. If this somebody can offer love or un4erstanding the endless stairway which we call living is an easy climb.

Running Time, 123 Minutes