Call the Midwife s07e03 Episode Script
Series 7, Episode 3
1 What is a family? Is it the tie of flesh and blood? Our facial features and the traits we inherit and pass on? Or is it the rhythm our hearts beat out .
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marking out the days we share? Good morning.
Family is our touchstone, our haven.
Family is the place where life begins.
Thank you.
Magda's worked out rather well, hasn't she? Yes, don't know what you were worrying about, Patrick.
Me! Now what are you going to do with your evening off? I have promised to help Timothy with his French.
And in return I'm going to teach her to bat an absolutely stinging square-cut! I believe it's some kind of sport.
Timothy, Magda doesn't want to play cricket! You should be out socialising.
Why don't you go and say hello to the girls at Nonnatus House? They always seem so busy.
And I have my best friends here already.
Don't I? Say, "Goodbye, Mummy".
Bye, darling.
Is everything all right, lass? Gordon's on nights at the paint factory.
I'm on my own a lot in the day, I just get a bit behind.
Why don't I just help you to do a bit of a tidy-up before your husband gets home? Hey, Mrs Lunt.
Oh! I made that myself, you know.
I sew all sorts and I knit, I used to make all the kids' clothes.
It's very nice.
Now I'm going to book you into the maternity home so that you don't have to worry about anything but Baby.
You must be Mr Lunt.
I was just saying to your wife that, all things considered, I think it best she give birth in the maternity home.
I'm sorry but that's not happening.
Mr Lunt, in my view, everything is just a bit too much for your wife at the moment.
She's going nowhere.
We could do a jumble sale.
People love rooting around in other people's rubbish.
A jumble sale?! Why can't we just go to Margate like normal people at Whitsun? Cos I promised the WVS that I'd organise something, and I'm a woman of my word.
Ere, ere, look at this.
Miss United Kingdom, Diane Westbury, look what she's up to.
We could do our own beauty competition Whit Monday.
Miss Poplar 1963.
They're all the rage now, you know, beauty contests.
- I don't think so.
- Well why not? We could do it together.
I could sell tickets, we'd make a packet for the CDC and the WVS.
You just want to see all the local girls in their smalls! No, I just want to see my lovely lady wife put her talents to something better than a blinking jumble sale.
Well, when you put it like that.
I suppose we'd see the girls in their evening dresses.
Swimwear We could have a home-made dress category! I'll order new stock, pronto.
Hello, Mrs Turner! Lovely day.
Isn't it just? I was hoping to have a word.
You might've seen our new Hungarian au pair, Magda? Ooh, yes, ever so glamorous isn't she? How's she getting on? Wonderfully.
I don't know how we managed without her.
The problem is she doesn't know anyone here apart from us.
Her family are stuck in Hungary and she hasn't seen them for years.
I'd love it if she could make some friends and settle in a bit.
How about sending her along to Keep Fit tonight? We always have a giggle, she'll be one of us in no time.
Miss Poplar 1963.
Now we've just got to find entrants.
And sell tickets.
Hmm.
I'll put the word out.
Do you really think we can pull this off, Fred? If we don't raise at least 100 quid, I will wear that myself.
Can everyone change into their leotards, please, we're running late.
Magda, isn't it? I'm really glad you could come.
- I'm Valerie.
- Thank you, it is lovely to be here.
I hear you've just come from Paris? How wonderful! I think I prefer London.
We're not quite the City of Light, but we try our best.
Sorry I'm late.
I have been busy planning! Fred and I are organising the first Miss Poplar beauty contest.
It's going to be on Whit Monday.
So whose name can I put down? Oh, there's a £5 prize and a free hairdo.
There's a home-made dress category and I'll even knock a few bob off.
I will enter.
Go on, then, I will too.
Sounds like it might be fun.
Trixie, what about you? Oh, now that Christopher and I are very serious, I think I'd better step aside on this one.
But I'll be there to cheer you on.
Now, chop chop, ladies, let's get going.
Magda, follow me.
So, children, in front of me I have a bowl of water, a flannel, a bar of soap and a tin of talcum powder.
These are things we should use every day.
Morning and night.
And just to help you all on your way, I'm going to give each of you your own bar of Wright's Coal Tar Soap to take home.
Do come and collect one.
There's one for you, too! She's been having trouble concentrating recently.
Well, come and collect yours, Wendy.
Oh, dear! Do try and look where you put your feet.
She's always tripping over herself.
Your knees all right? That child's really in quite a state.
Unwashed, undernourished, not to mention the nits.
And her legs are covered in the most horrible bruises.
I don't know if she's simply a clumsy child, or There's something more worrying.
There's certainly some neglect.
So who knows what else? What did you say her name was? Wendy Lunt.
I saw Mrs Lunt yesterday.
Wendy's her eldest.
Something's wrong.
And Mr Lunt Think he might have something to do with these bruises? I don't know.
I know something's up.
I've asked her to come into clinic.
Better not.
Swimwear.
Oh, my! You're brave.
Oh, no, I didn't mean because - Are you entering? - Lord, no! My mother would have me on the first boat back to Jamaica if she found out.
I've volunteered to help with the stage management instead.
The whole thing puts me in mind of the Great Yorkshire Show.
All those prize Jerseys being paraded around in their ribbons.
Haven't these young women better things to do than be gawped at in their unmentionables? Nurse Crane! I'm sure Violet is planning a very family-minded event.
I shall happily volunteer myself for duty that evening along with any other dissenters.
This is naught but a modern rendering of the May Queen.
These young girls are offerings to the fertility gods.
Once, they would've been sacrificed to them.
Maybe I will have one of those after all.
Er, a moment on the lips, Valerie! If you're hungry, have a slice of Nimble.
Hello there, I see you've brought your children.
They didn't want to go to school.
Well, you can have a biscuit in the cafe while you wait for your mother.
Hello, Mrs Lunt, I'm glad you're here.
Come with me.
And you can collect your prescription - from Mrs Turner at the desk.
- Thank you.
I'm afraid your blood pressure's a little high, Mrs Lunt.
Are you feeling anxious? Why aren't the children in school? Wendy's been helping me at the laundrette.
They ain't had clean clothes for a while.
And how is everything at home, Mrs Lunt? Anything you tell me will be in confidence.
Gordon wouldn't like me talking to you.
I'm going to get Dr Turner to pop in while you're here.
I won't be a minute.
That's the last box of ribbons.
You'll have to contact the wholesaler! 12 entrants and I'm having to turn people away.
Oh! - You going to enter then, Fred? - Nah, wouldn't be fair on you girls.
I'd walk it.
Oh, you're still here.
Having afternoon tea.
Quite as good as Claridges, wouldn't you say? Oh I'm afraid your mother had to go home.
Can I have a word, Nurse Franklin? I'm very worried about Wendy and Kevin.
It's their mother that concerns me.
One mention of the doctor and she bolted leaving the children behind.
I'll take them.
They can walk with me.
Thank you, Trixie.
Nurse Franklin's going to look after you.
Where's our mum gone? I'm afraid I don't know.
It's cos she don't love us any more! I'm sure that's not true, sweetie! I'll take you home.
Get inside.
What are you, a nurse? Can I come in? I'd like to speak to Mrs Lunt.
She's asleep.
I'll wait.
How long has it been like this, Mr Lunt? Months.
This place used to be her pride and joy.
And now I'm ashamed to let you see it.
Pregnancy can be a difficult time.
Some women do feel low.
It was happening before she fell pregnant.
She don't eat.
She don't wash.
She don't lift a finger round the house.
- It's like something's got stuck up here.
- Has she seen the doctor? That's the thing.
Her old man died in the nuthouse.
And I'm frightened they'll take one look at her and cart her off there too.
So you've been trying to manage on your own? We've been living off scraps.
The kids' clothes are filthy.
We ain't been doing too well, nurse.
Let me make her an appointment with Dr Turner.
No, no, no, no.
I know what them doctors are like.
Just for a check-up.
She won't be "carted off" anywhere.
Is that a promise, nurse? Are you going to help Mum get better? I'm going to try.
I promise I'll do everything I can to help you all.
How's that? The name's Buckle .
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Fred Buckle.
Where on earth did you get that?! Borrowed it off of Mickey Lawson's brother-in-law.
He does the bingo calling down at the Granada.
I thought, well, if I'm going to do the MC-ing, might as well look the part.
It's not meant to be funny! I thought I look rather dashing.
You look very handsome indeed.
It might just need a small adjustment.
Reflexes are normal, Mrs Lunt.
Stick out your tongue, please.
Now raise your arms for me like this.
Your arms look fidgety.
How have you been feeling lately, in yourself? Right as rain.
All the girls are representing their place of work.
There's Miss Tate & Lyle Typing Pool, Miss Weights And Measures Office, Miss Frith's the Confectioner.
And you'll all be wearing swimsuits? And evening dresses and there's a home-made dress round, too.
So I was wondering if I could go as Miss Nonnatus House? Or perhaps Miss Black Sail Public House? So a busy afternoon ahead.
Ooh, and while I remember, Nurse Anderson, I'd like you to visit Mrs Norman, only do be wary, her husband's got an Alsatian and he can be rather amorous.
The husband or the dog? Good afternoon, Dr Turner! I'm afraid I'm going to rather spoil those smiles.
I saw one of your ladies this morning.
Doreen Lunt.
Oh, how is she? I hate to say this, but it's almost certainly some kind of neurological problem.
Possibly a brain tumour.
I've referred her to the Neurology Department.
Oh, no.
Poor Mrs Lunt.
Poor Mr Lunt, too.
He's barely managing to hold the family together as it is.
Valerie? Oh, sorry.
You caught me red-handed.
I keep my secret cache of chocolate in the fridge.
Thank you.
Underneath the Ergometrine.
Come on, let's go and get this dress sorted.
Hold still This will do nicely.
You deserve a cocktail.
- From me, to say thank you.
- What a treat! A Soixante Quinze.
I learnt how to make them in Paris.
Not for me, thank you.
I don't want to smudge.
At school they told us nail polish was the worst kind of Western decadence.
They're quite wrong.
It's the very best kind.
We used burnt match sticks for eyeliner, and beetroot juice for rouge.
You can imagine what arriving in the West was like.
Was it dangerous? Getting across the Iron Curtain? We went at night.
Had to lie flat on the ground every time the searchlight of the watchtower came round.
Then we dug a hole to get under the wire.
Six weeks in an Austrian refugee camp, then I managed to reach Paris.
I thought my journey here was hard.
It was nothing compared to yours.
Did a handsome Frenchman sweep you off your feet? Something like that.
He was a student at the Sorbonne.
Very clever, very charming.
We planned to marry.
So why on earth did you swap Paris for Poplar?! After he thought I was flirting with his friend.
Oh, no.
I am glad I left, it leaves me free to meet Sean Connery.
To Paris.
To London.
To best home-made dress.
Any headaches, Mrs Lunt? Fit as a fiddle.
Could you take a seat for me now? Well, I think we can rule out a brain tumour.
I'll contact your GP.
Mr Dockerill, you really are rather late.
If you weren't so dashing in your summer suit - I should be positively furious.
- I'm so sorry.
It was Alexandra.
Oh, don't tell me the rabbit escaped again! She wet herself at school.
Oh, no, poor thing.
And apparently it wasn't the first time.
She's been having nightmares.
Every night, for over a month now.
- Moira wants her to see a psychiatrist.
- Oh.
Seems a rather drastic step to me.
Children have these phases, don't they? She'll probably be fine by the time she sees him.
Yes, I'm sure.
The Birds is on at the Rialto.
Shall we go and scare ourselves silly again? So how many tickets you sold so far, then? Erm Oh, 11.
Er, to the WVS.
Only the older ladies, mind, the younger girls don't seem to want their husbands to come.
Dr Atherton thinks that your wife has an illness called Huntington's Chorea.
Never heard of it.
It's a very rare condition that runs in families.
It causes problems with the way that you move your body, and the way you think and speak.
So what if she's a bit slow? We can live with that, can't we? I'm afraid it will get worse over the next few years.
Eventually it affects every part of the body.
I'm so sorry, Mrs Lunt.
I need a smoke.
We will support you both, and the children, in every way we can.
She's going to get better, right? I mean, this ain't like when her dad died.
You can do all sorts nowadays, they can put a man in space for Christ's sake.
I wish I could say yes.
There are some things we just don't understand well enough to be able to treat.
Is she going to? Not for a long time.
It's unlikely she'll be able to live at home for more than a few years.
And the kids? I mean, if her dad had it, then they might get it too.
There's a 50% chance.
I am so very, very sorry.
What time do you call this?! Tea's in the oven, the chops'll be like shoe leather.
Not to worry.
I may've had a pickled egg or two.
Oh, so while I've been slaving over my sashes, you've been down the Black Sail.
How many you had?! One erm in the Waterman.
And one in the Admiral.
No! Maybe two in the Admiral.
Fred Buckle, you idle drunken beggar! It was business, not pleasure! What's that? Ticket sales.
We are sold out.
Oh! Remember that day at Clacton? When I made us go swimming.
Even though we was the only ones mad enough to go in.
I'm going to look after you.
And the baby.
And the kids.
All of us.
I ain't going to let you down.
Yeah, I know, darling.
You have a good shift, yeah? Yes, absolutely, thank you.
Mrs Lunt's gone into labour.
I've been looking into Huntingdon's Chorea just in case it would affect the birth.
There's no treatment for it.
It's in her genes.
It's as much a part of her as her eye colour or the size of her feet.
That poor family.
One wonders if she'll be able to manage with the new baby.
Come in.
Oh, Lucille, we've sold all the tickets! That's wonderful, isn't it? Yes, but there's still so much to do.
There's the music, the set design, not to mention the refreshments.
You couldn't take on a few extra jobs, could you? Of course! I do love a community event, reminds me of home.
Thank you, Lucille! I took the liberty of making a list.
Thank you.
You're aware that both the Pill and the Dutch cap can only be prescribed for married women.
I'm getting married in a few months' time.
Ah, well, I'd like to make sure everything's in order.
So, jump up on the bed and we'll do the internal exam.
Make yourself comfortable.
Put this here and have a feel.
When was the first day of your last period, Miss Kovacs? I can't remember.
In France.
Well you might want to get a move on with your wedding plans.
I'd say you're two months' pregnant.
Everything's progressing nicely.
You're doing very well indeed.
Would you like a drink? Is there anything else I can get you? All I want is quiet, nurse.
Reckon my body knows what it's doing by now.
Of course.
What can I do? If you decide to stay here, we can provide all your antenatal care No I mean for an abortion.
I'm sorry, Miss Kovacs, there are no circumstances under which that is allowable.
Except in the gravest threat to the mother's life.
But in Hungary it is legal up to 12 weeks.
This is not the Communist block, Miss Kovacs, this is England, and we do not give out abortions to any woman who demands one.
But I cannot have a baby.
I have no family, no friends, no money.
Please, there must be some way you can help.
Well, what about your fiance? There is no fiance, is there? Small breaths.
Pant.
That's it.
Small pushes.
Gently.
Small pushes.
Small pushes.
Gently now.
Gently.
Here we are.
Nearly there.
Just the shoulders.
There There Clever girl.
I've got her.
I've got her.
Well done, Doreen.
You have a perfect daughter.
Is she really mine? Yes, she is.
Mm? Mm You go to your mummy now.
Sshh I love you, baby.
Relax.
Now, tummies pulled in, bosoms out.
Deep breath and smile.
Now, Valerie, nice short steps, and remember to look at your audience! You look as though you're trying to catch the number seven bus.
I want to see you glide like a swan, not galumph like an elephant.
And try and look as though you're enjoying yourselves! Come on then, girls.
How do you do what you do Much better! And glide! And glide Sorry.
I told you about my Frenchman.
What about you? You must have boyfriend.
Men are altogether more trouble than they're worth.
So you have had boyfriends? I might've done! Did you take precautions? Magda! I'm sorry.
If I ask you something, would you promise not to tell anybody else? If you were to get into trouble is there somewhere you would go? A lady who might help you? A lady who might? Do you mean? Do you think you might be? Please.
I know it is not legal, but I've read about women who I could go to Believe me, that is not a road you want to go down, and if you'd seen the things I've seen, you wouldn't even be asking.
Have you told the Turners? You've got to tell them.
They can help.
Promise me, no more talk of finding one of those women, you hear? Promise me.
From what I can see, it shouldn't blister.
She's always dropping stuff.
Drives us all mad.
Oh and many congratulations on your new arrival, Mr Lunt.
- I'm thrilled for you all.
- Thanks, Doc.
Are Wendy's movements a bit unstable? Apparently, barely a day goes past without Wendy tripping over, or dropping something.
Her limbs are stiff and rigid, and she's been irritable and underperforming in school.
I've referred her to St Cuthburt's.
You're not thinking she's got Huntington's as well? There's a juvenile version that causes these symptoms.
It's incredibly rare for a child to develop it this early from their mother.
But it's not unheard of.
Drum roll, please.
Now this is truly a first.
Traditional Hungarian porkolt stew with paprika and caraway seeds.
Oh, it smells delicious.
Is it one of your mother's dishes Magda? My grandmother's.
My mother was usually too busy nursing.
Actually, Mrs Turner I was wondering if I could borrow your nursing books.
I have decided I would like to apply for nursing training, after I finish working for you.
- Of course.
That's wonderful news! - The family trade, eh? I'm sure your parents would be very proud, Magda.
- I'll dig out my old books for you.
- Thank you.
And we've got all the back copies of the Lancet you can manage.
Hmm She's a little darling, ain't she, Nurse? She most certainly is.
I've brought her bottle for you.
Mrs Lunt? She seems to want to hold her excessively, barely puts her down.
But she's shown little interest in feeding or changing her.
Is it the illness? It could be.
Or it could be the exhaustion of any new mother.
- I hope it's the latter.
- So do I.
Let's just give her time.
She'll be with us for a few days yet.
Is there any news of Wendy? She's with the neurologist today.
Now, Wendy, pop onto the couch for me, there's a good girl.
What did the psychiatrist say? That we need a very fixed set of rules.
That I should only see her on fixed days of the week.
That I shouldn't meet her from school any more, because it .
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singles her out and emphasises the stigma of divorce.
And that she shouldn't have to see you if she doesn't want to.
Doesn't she want to see me? She loves you almost as much as I do, Trixie, but she's If you do really love me, don't say anything else.
I said at the very beginning, that I didn't want to meet her if it wasn't going to be good for her.
You aren't to blame for any of this.
No.
But nor is she.
We'll work this out, I promise you.
There's a way for us all to be happy and we're going to find it.
Daddy .
.
I want to go home.
Of course, sweetheart.
Have you told Mrs Turner yet? You must tell her.
I started bleeding in the night.
I think the problem may be fixing itself.
A bit of blood can be normal.
I'm sorry, but it doesn't mean you'll lose it.
Remember what you promised me.
And for Heaven's sake, tell Mrs Turner.
That's it.
Good afternoon, Mr Lunt.
Come to say hello to your two lovely girls? Been to see that doctor again.
What did he say? - Wendy's got it, too.
- Oh, no.
Oh, I'm so sorry, Mr Lunt.
They're talking about .
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sending her away from her family, to some .
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residential home.
He knows we ain't going to be able to manage, what with Doreen in the state that she's in.
Perhaps if you got things a bit more under control at home.
There are health visitors, social workers who can support you.
No, no as soon as they get their foot in the door, then we're done for.
But you could help us, Nurse.
You promised.
You said you'd do whatever you could.
Please.
Please.
Help me help my kids.
If you promise to get the proper help once we've got you shipshape, then yes.
I will.
Tonight you're mine Completely Abortion.
You give your love so sweetly Hello, Wendy.
Hello, Kevin.
Are you ready to learn how to sterilise a bottle? But will you love me tomorrow? Ergometrine.
"Make the uterine muscle contract".
Or just a moment's pleasure? Can I Believe the magic of your sighs? Will you still love me Tomorrow? Tonight with words Unspoken You say that I'm the only one Well done, Mr Lunt.
It's a fine homecoming for your new daughter.
- Mm - Is that you, Magda? Madga? Are you feeling unwell? I'll see to him, Mrs Turner.
Midwife calling.
Good afternoon, Mrs Lunt.
I was nearby, so I thought I'd come and see how you were doing.
Shall I take her? Oh There, there, sweetheart.
What's the matter? Are you hungry? No.
You need changing.
Yes.
You poor little thing.
We walked the road of life Together That you, Trix? Yes.
Getting an early night before the big day tomorrow? Everything looking shipshape at the institute? Absolutely.
Mr Lunt, your daughter's nappy hadn't been changed for some time.
I know how hard you've tried.
I know how much you want to keep your children at home with you.
But Mrs Lunt .
.
simply isn't well enough to take care of them any more.
But I know what I'm doing now, Doc.
Nurse showed me.
Your wife's condition is only going to get worse.
It's likely the baby will need to go to a foster carer.
And there is a place ready for Wendy at the residential home.
I'm so sorry, Mr Lunt.
As a father myself, I can only imagine how it feels.
You did everything you could.
- No-one could've done more.
- I'll try harder.
Please.
Help, Nurse.
Please.
Don't let 'em take our kids.
I'm so sorry.
Fit for a queen.
Well, a beauty queen, at least.
Oh, please let that be Lucille.
She said she'd be here by ten.
Don't panic, Mrs Buckle.
I'm here, and bearing gifts from my church.
Well, more of a loan.
A microphone.
I made a strict promise to return it at the end of the day.
Lucille, you are truly Heaven sent.
There you go.
Magda! Now's no time for studying, you should be getting ready! Yes.
Take your seats, folks -- and prepare to be dazzled by the most gorgeous girls, the finest fillies, and stunned by the loveliest ladies you are ever likely to see.
- Violet! - Truly the flower of womanhood in full bloom.
And I count my lovely wife amongst them.
I do hope Teddy will be good for Mrs Towey.
She promised to bring Angela shortly so she can give the bouquets.
Here he comes.
Good luck with the music.
And remember, Timothy .
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focus on the piano.
Meanwhile, for your delight, on the old Joanna, we have young Timothy Turner! How are you? Have you spoken to Shelagh? Everything under control? Yes, here's the list of girls.
Thank you.
Sorry! OK.
- Good luck, ladies.
- Hurry up, girls.
We need you backstage.
I've got a bad headache.
Can you tell them I'm sorry? Course.
And so, ladies and gentlemen welcome to the very first Miss Poplar beauty contest! Prepare to be dazzled by perfection.
Fanfare, please! You look lovely.
- I feel nervous.
- Good luck.
- Ladies and gentlemen, for your delectation, here they are! 12 home grown luscious ladies, all representing a local business.
Shelagh, Magda had to go home, she's ill.
- Did you pick 'em Fred? - No! The wife would kill me, wouldn't you love? Fred Buckle! Should we meet our first girl? - Such a shame about Magda.
Maybe I should go and check on her.
- 'She's Margaret Brittan Oh, Angela! Come and have a look at the pretty ladies.
She's a trainee accountant Let's have a big hand for our first girl, she's a trainee accountant at Herb-son Brown.
Isn't she lovely? And finally, what would you do to bring about world peace? I'd put a Poplar woman in charge.
Anyone who's seen my auntie at closing time on a Saturday knows .
.
we don't put up with any messing.
Here, here! And I have no doubt, we have a future Miss Great Britain in the room here today, and maybe even a future Miss World! You heard it here first, folks! Magda, is it not? Sorry, I have to go.
Ladies and gentlemen, the results are in.
Patience is a virtue.
In reverse order Miss Poplar 1963 is Wait for it! Miss Weights and Measures Office, Ruth Gardner! Congratulations to our lovely winner! But you're all winners, and I think you're all fabulous, so can we have a big round of applause for everybody, ladies and gentlemen? And a special commendation for .
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Miss Black Sail Public House for best home-made dress.
And she did it all herself, you know, at home! And a round of applause please for our flower girl, Angela Turner.
Put your hands together now and thank all our lovely contestants.
Aren't they wonderful? Sister Monica Joan called from Nonnatus House.
Something's wrong with Magda.
[And finally, I'd like to thank you all for coming out.]
- [and supporting.]
- Look after those for me, love.
Oh, no.
I saw her hastening away.
Ergometrine.
What on earth was she doing with ergometrine? I'm afraid - She's pregnant.
- What?! I believe she may have sought solace among the seedlings in Fred Buckle's allotment.
Magda? Magda, can you hear me? Can you call an ambulance? Magda, did you take ergometrine? Are you trying to cause an abortion? I'm waiting for it to .
.
come away.
Number six is inconsolable in the ladies.
I shall dispense tissues and words of comfort.
Can I get a photo? The two of us! I should've told you.
I'm so sorry.
Why didn't she talk to me? They've performed a D and C to stop the bleeding.
She's unwell, but stable.
Why didn't I see it? None of this is your fault.
She was under our roof, our employee.
And I gave her the books, Patrick Magda is being discharged from hospital today.
I should've told Mrs Turner.
Then she might not have done it.
You respected her privacy.
Without your prompt action, she would almost certainly have died.
Sister Monica Joan's actions are to be commended, too.
I have often sought sanctuary in that allotment myself.
Poor child.
But .
.
an abortion on convent grounds.
Not to mention the theft of drugs.
Will the incident be reported? I've been trying to answer that question myself.
Magda has suffered greatly.
I cannot, in all conscience, inflict further pain.
You be a good girl for Nurse Franklin now.
And remember how much your old mum and dad love you.
- Mum doesn't.
- You must never say that, you hear me? Your mum's not very well.
She's not herself any more, but she loves you very, very much.
Doreen .
.
Wendy's going now.
I suggest we make a detour via the sweetie shop on the way.
It's actually rather a treat, me taking you to Roseleigh Park.
I can never resist a bus ride on a sunny morning.
I always close my eyes and pretend I'm Audrey Hepburn in Roman Holiday.
Wendy! You forgot this.
I love you.
I love you, too.
I think this lady must be Mrs Collins, Wendy.
She seems to be expecting us.
Everyone looks happy.
I'm sure they're all terribly contented little souls.
Then why do they put 'em in here? Because it's for the best.
Are you sure you don't want a lift to the station? I am going to miss you, my darling.
But I have to go back to Paris, to train as a nurse, like your mummy.
These are for you.
Write to us, Magda -- and let us know how you are.
I wish your job didn't hurt you so much.
So do I.
Sometimes.
But I wish it didn't hurt other people more.
No, Trixie.
You've had to do an appalling thing, but I don't doubt for a single moment that the care and love you showed while doing it made everything better for everyone concerned.
Thank you for understanding me.
Now I need you to understand something else.
I want you to go back to your wife.
She's my ex-wife.
And I don't love her, Trixie.
I love you.
You love your daughter, too.
If you can't make that little girl feel cherished and safe, she's going to go through her whole life feeling lonely and afraid.
Because she'll be poised to run away.
To take flight, before something hurts her.
I'm not leaving you, Trixie.
If you don't do whatever you have to do to create a stable and secure world for that beautiful child .
.
then I won't be able to feel the same way about you that I do now.
We can't just end this.
We can't just walk away from this amount of love.
Think of it as walking towards someone else.
And when you see Alexandra, tell her everything is going to be all right.
Because it will be.
And you give her my .
.
deepest and dearest love.
Goodbye, Christopher.
'Love is always deserved by everyone.
But it is not always given, no matter where we search, or however much we long for it.
And families can be torn, as well as drawn together, by the tie of flesh and blood and the genes that define us, or which we inherit and pass on.
Family is the place where life begins.
But it can wound us, even as it nurtures, leaving us empty instead of fulfilled.
Our hearts beat so loudly that we want only silence.
You have taken another wife? We are blessed.
You are the father? There she is! I wonder if she felt lonely up there by herself? She's a fearless adventurer, fulfilling her destiny.
You're a nurse and a midwife.
And there are rules, rules you've broken.
Are you going to report me?
.
marking out the days we share? Good morning.
Family is our touchstone, our haven.
Family is the place where life begins.
Thank you.
Magda's worked out rather well, hasn't she? Yes, don't know what you were worrying about, Patrick.
Me! Now what are you going to do with your evening off? I have promised to help Timothy with his French.
And in return I'm going to teach her to bat an absolutely stinging square-cut! I believe it's some kind of sport.
Timothy, Magda doesn't want to play cricket! You should be out socialising.
Why don't you go and say hello to the girls at Nonnatus House? They always seem so busy.
And I have my best friends here already.
Don't I? Say, "Goodbye, Mummy".
Bye, darling.
Is everything all right, lass? Gordon's on nights at the paint factory.
I'm on my own a lot in the day, I just get a bit behind.
Why don't I just help you to do a bit of a tidy-up before your husband gets home? Hey, Mrs Lunt.
Oh! I made that myself, you know.
I sew all sorts and I knit, I used to make all the kids' clothes.
It's very nice.
Now I'm going to book you into the maternity home so that you don't have to worry about anything but Baby.
You must be Mr Lunt.
I was just saying to your wife that, all things considered, I think it best she give birth in the maternity home.
I'm sorry but that's not happening.
Mr Lunt, in my view, everything is just a bit too much for your wife at the moment.
She's going nowhere.
We could do a jumble sale.
People love rooting around in other people's rubbish.
A jumble sale?! Why can't we just go to Margate like normal people at Whitsun? Cos I promised the WVS that I'd organise something, and I'm a woman of my word.
Ere, ere, look at this.
Miss United Kingdom, Diane Westbury, look what she's up to.
We could do our own beauty competition Whit Monday.
Miss Poplar 1963.
They're all the rage now, you know, beauty contests.
- I don't think so.
- Well why not? We could do it together.
I could sell tickets, we'd make a packet for the CDC and the WVS.
You just want to see all the local girls in their smalls! No, I just want to see my lovely lady wife put her talents to something better than a blinking jumble sale.
Well, when you put it like that.
I suppose we'd see the girls in their evening dresses.
Swimwear We could have a home-made dress category! I'll order new stock, pronto.
Hello, Mrs Turner! Lovely day.
Isn't it just? I was hoping to have a word.
You might've seen our new Hungarian au pair, Magda? Ooh, yes, ever so glamorous isn't she? How's she getting on? Wonderfully.
I don't know how we managed without her.
The problem is she doesn't know anyone here apart from us.
Her family are stuck in Hungary and she hasn't seen them for years.
I'd love it if she could make some friends and settle in a bit.
How about sending her along to Keep Fit tonight? We always have a giggle, she'll be one of us in no time.
Miss Poplar 1963.
Now we've just got to find entrants.
And sell tickets.
Hmm.
I'll put the word out.
Do you really think we can pull this off, Fred? If we don't raise at least 100 quid, I will wear that myself.
Can everyone change into their leotards, please, we're running late.
Magda, isn't it? I'm really glad you could come.
- I'm Valerie.
- Thank you, it is lovely to be here.
I hear you've just come from Paris? How wonderful! I think I prefer London.
We're not quite the City of Light, but we try our best.
Sorry I'm late.
I have been busy planning! Fred and I are organising the first Miss Poplar beauty contest.
It's going to be on Whit Monday.
So whose name can I put down? Oh, there's a £5 prize and a free hairdo.
There's a home-made dress category and I'll even knock a few bob off.
I will enter.
Go on, then, I will too.
Sounds like it might be fun.
Trixie, what about you? Oh, now that Christopher and I are very serious, I think I'd better step aside on this one.
But I'll be there to cheer you on.
Now, chop chop, ladies, let's get going.
Magda, follow me.
So, children, in front of me I have a bowl of water, a flannel, a bar of soap and a tin of talcum powder.
These are things we should use every day.
Morning and night.
And just to help you all on your way, I'm going to give each of you your own bar of Wright's Coal Tar Soap to take home.
Do come and collect one.
There's one for you, too! She's been having trouble concentrating recently.
Well, come and collect yours, Wendy.
Oh, dear! Do try and look where you put your feet.
She's always tripping over herself.
Your knees all right? That child's really in quite a state.
Unwashed, undernourished, not to mention the nits.
And her legs are covered in the most horrible bruises.
I don't know if she's simply a clumsy child, or There's something more worrying.
There's certainly some neglect.
So who knows what else? What did you say her name was? Wendy Lunt.
I saw Mrs Lunt yesterday.
Wendy's her eldest.
Something's wrong.
And Mr Lunt Think he might have something to do with these bruises? I don't know.
I know something's up.
I've asked her to come into clinic.
Better not.
Swimwear.
Oh, my! You're brave.
Oh, no, I didn't mean because - Are you entering? - Lord, no! My mother would have me on the first boat back to Jamaica if she found out.
I've volunteered to help with the stage management instead.
The whole thing puts me in mind of the Great Yorkshire Show.
All those prize Jerseys being paraded around in their ribbons.
Haven't these young women better things to do than be gawped at in their unmentionables? Nurse Crane! I'm sure Violet is planning a very family-minded event.
I shall happily volunteer myself for duty that evening along with any other dissenters.
This is naught but a modern rendering of the May Queen.
These young girls are offerings to the fertility gods.
Once, they would've been sacrificed to them.
Maybe I will have one of those after all.
Er, a moment on the lips, Valerie! If you're hungry, have a slice of Nimble.
Hello there, I see you've brought your children.
They didn't want to go to school.
Well, you can have a biscuit in the cafe while you wait for your mother.
Hello, Mrs Lunt, I'm glad you're here.
Come with me.
And you can collect your prescription - from Mrs Turner at the desk.
- Thank you.
I'm afraid your blood pressure's a little high, Mrs Lunt.
Are you feeling anxious? Why aren't the children in school? Wendy's been helping me at the laundrette.
They ain't had clean clothes for a while.
And how is everything at home, Mrs Lunt? Anything you tell me will be in confidence.
Gordon wouldn't like me talking to you.
I'm going to get Dr Turner to pop in while you're here.
I won't be a minute.
That's the last box of ribbons.
You'll have to contact the wholesaler! 12 entrants and I'm having to turn people away.
Oh! - You going to enter then, Fred? - Nah, wouldn't be fair on you girls.
I'd walk it.
Oh, you're still here.
Having afternoon tea.
Quite as good as Claridges, wouldn't you say? Oh I'm afraid your mother had to go home.
Can I have a word, Nurse Franklin? I'm very worried about Wendy and Kevin.
It's their mother that concerns me.
One mention of the doctor and she bolted leaving the children behind.
I'll take them.
They can walk with me.
Thank you, Trixie.
Nurse Franklin's going to look after you.
Where's our mum gone? I'm afraid I don't know.
It's cos she don't love us any more! I'm sure that's not true, sweetie! I'll take you home.
Get inside.
What are you, a nurse? Can I come in? I'd like to speak to Mrs Lunt.
She's asleep.
I'll wait.
How long has it been like this, Mr Lunt? Months.
This place used to be her pride and joy.
And now I'm ashamed to let you see it.
Pregnancy can be a difficult time.
Some women do feel low.
It was happening before she fell pregnant.
She don't eat.
She don't wash.
She don't lift a finger round the house.
- It's like something's got stuck up here.
- Has she seen the doctor? That's the thing.
Her old man died in the nuthouse.
And I'm frightened they'll take one look at her and cart her off there too.
So you've been trying to manage on your own? We've been living off scraps.
The kids' clothes are filthy.
We ain't been doing too well, nurse.
Let me make her an appointment with Dr Turner.
No, no, no, no.
I know what them doctors are like.
Just for a check-up.
She won't be "carted off" anywhere.
Is that a promise, nurse? Are you going to help Mum get better? I'm going to try.
I promise I'll do everything I can to help you all.
How's that? The name's Buckle .
.
Fred Buckle.
Where on earth did you get that?! Borrowed it off of Mickey Lawson's brother-in-law.
He does the bingo calling down at the Granada.
I thought, well, if I'm going to do the MC-ing, might as well look the part.
It's not meant to be funny! I thought I look rather dashing.
You look very handsome indeed.
It might just need a small adjustment.
Reflexes are normal, Mrs Lunt.
Stick out your tongue, please.
Now raise your arms for me like this.
Your arms look fidgety.
How have you been feeling lately, in yourself? Right as rain.
All the girls are representing their place of work.
There's Miss Tate & Lyle Typing Pool, Miss Weights And Measures Office, Miss Frith's the Confectioner.
And you'll all be wearing swimsuits? And evening dresses and there's a home-made dress round, too.
So I was wondering if I could go as Miss Nonnatus House? Or perhaps Miss Black Sail Public House? So a busy afternoon ahead.
Ooh, and while I remember, Nurse Anderson, I'd like you to visit Mrs Norman, only do be wary, her husband's got an Alsatian and he can be rather amorous.
The husband or the dog? Good afternoon, Dr Turner! I'm afraid I'm going to rather spoil those smiles.
I saw one of your ladies this morning.
Doreen Lunt.
Oh, how is she? I hate to say this, but it's almost certainly some kind of neurological problem.
Possibly a brain tumour.
I've referred her to the Neurology Department.
Oh, no.
Poor Mrs Lunt.
Poor Mr Lunt, too.
He's barely managing to hold the family together as it is.
Valerie? Oh, sorry.
You caught me red-handed.
I keep my secret cache of chocolate in the fridge.
Thank you.
Underneath the Ergometrine.
Come on, let's go and get this dress sorted.
Hold still This will do nicely.
You deserve a cocktail.
- From me, to say thank you.
- What a treat! A Soixante Quinze.
I learnt how to make them in Paris.
Not for me, thank you.
I don't want to smudge.
At school they told us nail polish was the worst kind of Western decadence.
They're quite wrong.
It's the very best kind.
We used burnt match sticks for eyeliner, and beetroot juice for rouge.
You can imagine what arriving in the West was like.
Was it dangerous? Getting across the Iron Curtain? We went at night.
Had to lie flat on the ground every time the searchlight of the watchtower came round.
Then we dug a hole to get under the wire.
Six weeks in an Austrian refugee camp, then I managed to reach Paris.
I thought my journey here was hard.
It was nothing compared to yours.
Did a handsome Frenchman sweep you off your feet? Something like that.
He was a student at the Sorbonne.
Very clever, very charming.
We planned to marry.
So why on earth did you swap Paris for Poplar?! After he thought I was flirting with his friend.
Oh, no.
I am glad I left, it leaves me free to meet Sean Connery.
To Paris.
To London.
To best home-made dress.
Any headaches, Mrs Lunt? Fit as a fiddle.
Could you take a seat for me now? Well, I think we can rule out a brain tumour.
I'll contact your GP.
Mr Dockerill, you really are rather late.
If you weren't so dashing in your summer suit - I should be positively furious.
- I'm so sorry.
It was Alexandra.
Oh, don't tell me the rabbit escaped again! She wet herself at school.
Oh, no, poor thing.
And apparently it wasn't the first time.
She's been having nightmares.
Every night, for over a month now.
- Moira wants her to see a psychiatrist.
- Oh.
Seems a rather drastic step to me.
Children have these phases, don't they? She'll probably be fine by the time she sees him.
Yes, I'm sure.
The Birds is on at the Rialto.
Shall we go and scare ourselves silly again? So how many tickets you sold so far, then? Erm Oh, 11.
Er, to the WVS.
Only the older ladies, mind, the younger girls don't seem to want their husbands to come.
Dr Atherton thinks that your wife has an illness called Huntington's Chorea.
Never heard of it.
It's a very rare condition that runs in families.
It causes problems with the way that you move your body, and the way you think and speak.
So what if she's a bit slow? We can live with that, can't we? I'm afraid it will get worse over the next few years.
Eventually it affects every part of the body.
I'm so sorry, Mrs Lunt.
I need a smoke.
We will support you both, and the children, in every way we can.
She's going to get better, right? I mean, this ain't like when her dad died.
You can do all sorts nowadays, they can put a man in space for Christ's sake.
I wish I could say yes.
There are some things we just don't understand well enough to be able to treat.
Is she going to? Not for a long time.
It's unlikely she'll be able to live at home for more than a few years.
And the kids? I mean, if her dad had it, then they might get it too.
There's a 50% chance.
I am so very, very sorry.
What time do you call this?! Tea's in the oven, the chops'll be like shoe leather.
Not to worry.
I may've had a pickled egg or two.
Oh, so while I've been slaving over my sashes, you've been down the Black Sail.
How many you had?! One erm in the Waterman.
And one in the Admiral.
No! Maybe two in the Admiral.
Fred Buckle, you idle drunken beggar! It was business, not pleasure! What's that? Ticket sales.
We are sold out.
Oh! Remember that day at Clacton? When I made us go swimming.
Even though we was the only ones mad enough to go in.
I'm going to look after you.
And the baby.
And the kids.
All of us.
I ain't going to let you down.
Yeah, I know, darling.
You have a good shift, yeah? Yes, absolutely, thank you.
Mrs Lunt's gone into labour.
I've been looking into Huntingdon's Chorea just in case it would affect the birth.
There's no treatment for it.
It's in her genes.
It's as much a part of her as her eye colour or the size of her feet.
That poor family.
One wonders if she'll be able to manage with the new baby.
Come in.
Oh, Lucille, we've sold all the tickets! That's wonderful, isn't it? Yes, but there's still so much to do.
There's the music, the set design, not to mention the refreshments.
You couldn't take on a few extra jobs, could you? Of course! I do love a community event, reminds me of home.
Thank you, Lucille! I took the liberty of making a list.
Thank you.
You're aware that both the Pill and the Dutch cap can only be prescribed for married women.
I'm getting married in a few months' time.
Ah, well, I'd like to make sure everything's in order.
So, jump up on the bed and we'll do the internal exam.
Make yourself comfortable.
Put this here and have a feel.
When was the first day of your last period, Miss Kovacs? I can't remember.
In France.
Well you might want to get a move on with your wedding plans.
I'd say you're two months' pregnant.
Everything's progressing nicely.
You're doing very well indeed.
Would you like a drink? Is there anything else I can get you? All I want is quiet, nurse.
Reckon my body knows what it's doing by now.
Of course.
What can I do? If you decide to stay here, we can provide all your antenatal care No I mean for an abortion.
I'm sorry, Miss Kovacs, there are no circumstances under which that is allowable.
Except in the gravest threat to the mother's life.
But in Hungary it is legal up to 12 weeks.
This is not the Communist block, Miss Kovacs, this is England, and we do not give out abortions to any woman who demands one.
But I cannot have a baby.
I have no family, no friends, no money.
Please, there must be some way you can help.
Well, what about your fiance? There is no fiance, is there? Small breaths.
Pant.
That's it.
Small pushes.
Gently.
Small pushes.
Small pushes.
Gently now.
Gently.
Here we are.
Nearly there.
Just the shoulders.
There There Clever girl.
I've got her.
I've got her.
Well done, Doreen.
You have a perfect daughter.
Is she really mine? Yes, she is.
Mm? Mm You go to your mummy now.
Sshh I love you, baby.
Relax.
Now, tummies pulled in, bosoms out.
Deep breath and smile.
Now, Valerie, nice short steps, and remember to look at your audience! You look as though you're trying to catch the number seven bus.
I want to see you glide like a swan, not galumph like an elephant.
And try and look as though you're enjoying yourselves! Come on then, girls.
How do you do what you do Much better! And glide! And glide Sorry.
I told you about my Frenchman.
What about you? You must have boyfriend.
Men are altogether more trouble than they're worth.
So you have had boyfriends? I might've done! Did you take precautions? Magda! I'm sorry.
If I ask you something, would you promise not to tell anybody else? If you were to get into trouble is there somewhere you would go? A lady who might help you? A lady who might? Do you mean? Do you think you might be? Please.
I know it is not legal, but I've read about women who I could go to Believe me, that is not a road you want to go down, and if you'd seen the things I've seen, you wouldn't even be asking.
Have you told the Turners? You've got to tell them.
They can help.
Promise me, no more talk of finding one of those women, you hear? Promise me.
From what I can see, it shouldn't blister.
She's always dropping stuff.
Drives us all mad.
Oh and many congratulations on your new arrival, Mr Lunt.
- I'm thrilled for you all.
- Thanks, Doc.
Are Wendy's movements a bit unstable? Apparently, barely a day goes past without Wendy tripping over, or dropping something.
Her limbs are stiff and rigid, and she's been irritable and underperforming in school.
I've referred her to St Cuthburt's.
You're not thinking she's got Huntington's as well? There's a juvenile version that causes these symptoms.
It's incredibly rare for a child to develop it this early from their mother.
But it's not unheard of.
Drum roll, please.
Now this is truly a first.
Traditional Hungarian porkolt stew with paprika and caraway seeds.
Oh, it smells delicious.
Is it one of your mother's dishes Magda? My grandmother's.
My mother was usually too busy nursing.
Actually, Mrs Turner I was wondering if I could borrow your nursing books.
I have decided I would like to apply for nursing training, after I finish working for you.
- Of course.
That's wonderful news! - The family trade, eh? I'm sure your parents would be very proud, Magda.
- I'll dig out my old books for you.
- Thank you.
And we've got all the back copies of the Lancet you can manage.
Hmm She's a little darling, ain't she, Nurse? She most certainly is.
I've brought her bottle for you.
Mrs Lunt? She seems to want to hold her excessively, barely puts her down.
But she's shown little interest in feeding or changing her.
Is it the illness? It could be.
Or it could be the exhaustion of any new mother.
- I hope it's the latter.
- So do I.
Let's just give her time.
She'll be with us for a few days yet.
Is there any news of Wendy? She's with the neurologist today.
Now, Wendy, pop onto the couch for me, there's a good girl.
What did the psychiatrist say? That we need a very fixed set of rules.
That I should only see her on fixed days of the week.
That I shouldn't meet her from school any more, because it .
.
singles her out and emphasises the stigma of divorce.
And that she shouldn't have to see you if she doesn't want to.
Doesn't she want to see me? She loves you almost as much as I do, Trixie, but she's If you do really love me, don't say anything else.
I said at the very beginning, that I didn't want to meet her if it wasn't going to be good for her.
You aren't to blame for any of this.
No.
But nor is she.
We'll work this out, I promise you.
There's a way for us all to be happy and we're going to find it.
Daddy .
.
I want to go home.
Of course, sweetheart.
Have you told Mrs Turner yet? You must tell her.
I started bleeding in the night.
I think the problem may be fixing itself.
A bit of blood can be normal.
I'm sorry, but it doesn't mean you'll lose it.
Remember what you promised me.
And for Heaven's sake, tell Mrs Turner.
That's it.
Good afternoon, Mr Lunt.
Come to say hello to your two lovely girls? Been to see that doctor again.
What did he say? - Wendy's got it, too.
- Oh, no.
Oh, I'm so sorry, Mr Lunt.
They're talking about .
.
sending her away from her family, to some .
.
residential home.
He knows we ain't going to be able to manage, what with Doreen in the state that she's in.
Perhaps if you got things a bit more under control at home.
There are health visitors, social workers who can support you.
No, no as soon as they get their foot in the door, then we're done for.
But you could help us, Nurse.
You promised.
You said you'd do whatever you could.
Please.
Please.
Help me help my kids.
If you promise to get the proper help once we've got you shipshape, then yes.
I will.
Tonight you're mine Completely Abortion.
You give your love so sweetly Hello, Wendy.
Hello, Kevin.
Are you ready to learn how to sterilise a bottle? But will you love me tomorrow? Ergometrine.
"Make the uterine muscle contract".
Or just a moment's pleasure? Can I Believe the magic of your sighs? Will you still love me Tomorrow? Tonight with words Unspoken You say that I'm the only one Well done, Mr Lunt.
It's a fine homecoming for your new daughter.
- Mm - Is that you, Magda? Madga? Are you feeling unwell? I'll see to him, Mrs Turner.
Midwife calling.
Good afternoon, Mrs Lunt.
I was nearby, so I thought I'd come and see how you were doing.
Shall I take her? Oh There, there, sweetheart.
What's the matter? Are you hungry? No.
You need changing.
Yes.
You poor little thing.
We walked the road of life Together That you, Trix? Yes.
Getting an early night before the big day tomorrow? Everything looking shipshape at the institute? Absolutely.
Mr Lunt, your daughter's nappy hadn't been changed for some time.
I know how hard you've tried.
I know how much you want to keep your children at home with you.
But Mrs Lunt .
.
simply isn't well enough to take care of them any more.
But I know what I'm doing now, Doc.
Nurse showed me.
Your wife's condition is only going to get worse.
It's likely the baby will need to go to a foster carer.
And there is a place ready for Wendy at the residential home.
I'm so sorry, Mr Lunt.
As a father myself, I can only imagine how it feels.
You did everything you could.
- No-one could've done more.
- I'll try harder.
Please.
Help, Nurse.
Please.
Don't let 'em take our kids.
I'm so sorry.
Fit for a queen.
Well, a beauty queen, at least.
Oh, please let that be Lucille.
She said she'd be here by ten.
Don't panic, Mrs Buckle.
I'm here, and bearing gifts from my church.
Well, more of a loan.
A microphone.
I made a strict promise to return it at the end of the day.
Lucille, you are truly Heaven sent.
There you go.
Magda! Now's no time for studying, you should be getting ready! Yes.
Take your seats, folks -- and prepare to be dazzled by the most gorgeous girls, the finest fillies, and stunned by the loveliest ladies you are ever likely to see.
- Violet! - Truly the flower of womanhood in full bloom.
And I count my lovely wife amongst them.
I do hope Teddy will be good for Mrs Towey.
She promised to bring Angela shortly so she can give the bouquets.
Here he comes.
Good luck with the music.
And remember, Timothy .
.
focus on the piano.
Meanwhile, for your delight, on the old Joanna, we have young Timothy Turner! How are you? Have you spoken to Shelagh? Everything under control? Yes, here's the list of girls.
Thank you.
Sorry! OK.
- Good luck, ladies.
- Hurry up, girls.
We need you backstage.
I've got a bad headache.
Can you tell them I'm sorry? Course.
And so, ladies and gentlemen welcome to the very first Miss Poplar beauty contest! Prepare to be dazzled by perfection.
Fanfare, please! You look lovely.
- I feel nervous.
- Good luck.
- Ladies and gentlemen, for your delectation, here they are! 12 home grown luscious ladies, all representing a local business.
Shelagh, Magda had to go home, she's ill.
- Did you pick 'em Fred? - No! The wife would kill me, wouldn't you love? Fred Buckle! Should we meet our first girl? - Such a shame about Magda.
Maybe I should go and check on her.
- 'She's Margaret Brittan Oh, Angela! Come and have a look at the pretty ladies.
She's a trainee accountant Let's have a big hand for our first girl, she's a trainee accountant at Herb-son Brown.
Isn't she lovely? And finally, what would you do to bring about world peace? I'd put a Poplar woman in charge.
Anyone who's seen my auntie at closing time on a Saturday knows .
.
we don't put up with any messing.
Here, here! And I have no doubt, we have a future Miss Great Britain in the room here today, and maybe even a future Miss World! You heard it here first, folks! Magda, is it not? Sorry, I have to go.
Ladies and gentlemen, the results are in.
Patience is a virtue.
In reverse order Miss Poplar 1963 is Wait for it! Miss Weights and Measures Office, Ruth Gardner! Congratulations to our lovely winner! But you're all winners, and I think you're all fabulous, so can we have a big round of applause for everybody, ladies and gentlemen? And a special commendation for .
.
Miss Black Sail Public House for best home-made dress.
And she did it all herself, you know, at home! And a round of applause please for our flower girl, Angela Turner.
Put your hands together now and thank all our lovely contestants.
Aren't they wonderful? Sister Monica Joan called from Nonnatus House.
Something's wrong with Magda.
[And finally, I'd like to thank you all for coming out.]
- [and supporting.]
- Look after those for me, love.
Oh, no.
I saw her hastening away.
Ergometrine.
What on earth was she doing with ergometrine? I'm afraid - She's pregnant.
- What?! I believe she may have sought solace among the seedlings in Fred Buckle's allotment.
Magda? Magda, can you hear me? Can you call an ambulance? Magda, did you take ergometrine? Are you trying to cause an abortion? I'm waiting for it to .
.
come away.
Number six is inconsolable in the ladies.
I shall dispense tissues and words of comfort.
Can I get a photo? The two of us! I should've told you.
I'm so sorry.
Why didn't she talk to me? They've performed a D and C to stop the bleeding.
She's unwell, but stable.
Why didn't I see it? None of this is your fault.
She was under our roof, our employee.
And I gave her the books, Patrick Magda is being discharged from hospital today.
I should've told Mrs Turner.
Then she might not have done it.
You respected her privacy.
Without your prompt action, she would almost certainly have died.
Sister Monica Joan's actions are to be commended, too.
I have often sought sanctuary in that allotment myself.
Poor child.
But .
.
an abortion on convent grounds.
Not to mention the theft of drugs.
Will the incident be reported? I've been trying to answer that question myself.
Magda has suffered greatly.
I cannot, in all conscience, inflict further pain.
You be a good girl for Nurse Franklin now.
And remember how much your old mum and dad love you.
- Mum doesn't.
- You must never say that, you hear me? Your mum's not very well.
She's not herself any more, but she loves you very, very much.
Doreen .
.
Wendy's going now.
I suggest we make a detour via the sweetie shop on the way.
It's actually rather a treat, me taking you to Roseleigh Park.
I can never resist a bus ride on a sunny morning.
I always close my eyes and pretend I'm Audrey Hepburn in Roman Holiday.
Wendy! You forgot this.
I love you.
I love you, too.
I think this lady must be Mrs Collins, Wendy.
She seems to be expecting us.
Everyone looks happy.
I'm sure they're all terribly contented little souls.
Then why do they put 'em in here? Because it's for the best.
Are you sure you don't want a lift to the station? I am going to miss you, my darling.
But I have to go back to Paris, to train as a nurse, like your mummy.
These are for you.
Write to us, Magda -- and let us know how you are.
I wish your job didn't hurt you so much.
So do I.
Sometimes.
But I wish it didn't hurt other people more.
No, Trixie.
You've had to do an appalling thing, but I don't doubt for a single moment that the care and love you showed while doing it made everything better for everyone concerned.
Thank you for understanding me.
Now I need you to understand something else.
I want you to go back to your wife.
She's my ex-wife.
And I don't love her, Trixie.
I love you.
You love your daughter, too.
If you can't make that little girl feel cherished and safe, she's going to go through her whole life feeling lonely and afraid.
Because she'll be poised to run away.
To take flight, before something hurts her.
I'm not leaving you, Trixie.
If you don't do whatever you have to do to create a stable and secure world for that beautiful child .
.
then I won't be able to feel the same way about you that I do now.
We can't just end this.
We can't just walk away from this amount of love.
Think of it as walking towards someone else.
And when you see Alexandra, tell her everything is going to be all right.
Because it will be.
And you give her my .
.
deepest and dearest love.
Goodbye, Christopher.
'Love is always deserved by everyone.
But it is not always given, no matter where we search, or however much we long for it.
And families can be torn, as well as drawn together, by the tie of flesh and blood and the genes that define us, or which we inherit and pass on.
Family is the place where life begins.
But it can wound us, even as it nurtures, leaving us empty instead of fulfilled.
Our hearts beat so loudly that we want only silence.
You have taken another wife? We are blessed.
You are the father? There she is! I wonder if she felt lonely up there by herself? She's a fearless adventurer, fulfilling her destiny.
You're a nurse and a midwife.
And there are rules, rules you've broken.
Are you going to report me?