Lark Rise to Candleford (2008) s02e06 Episode Script
Episode Six
'To Miss Lane, the business of the Post Office was not work, 'it was life.
'And all the threads of all the storiesbeing played out around her 'seemed to meet and cross in her hands.
'Such clever, capable hands.
'It was impossible to imagine they could ever falter or fail.
' "Requesting every detail "of the Princess's costume ".
.
including ornament, coiffure, and toilette.
"Stop.
Miss Lane! Found him in a ditch.
Said he was picking crab apples, like you said, when a faintness came over him.
So where are the crab apples then? Gypsies, took them from me where I lay.
Well, thank the Lord you're back now.
Where you belong.
On your tailbone! You uselessslack critter! I have a pain! We've got mouths to feed.
I'm ailing! The only thing that ails you isbeing born idle and bone idle.
Which is more than can be said for Miss Lane.
Just passed the farmer on his way back from Candleford.
Says she's been taken to bed with a fever and he reckons Laura's put in charge of the Post Office.
Minnie, I have influenza.
It is not terminal merely Thomas.
Miss Lane.
You'll have to manage Laura's round as well as your own.
And could do so in my sleep, ma'am.
And Laura, I'm so sorry to burden you like this.
It's no burden.
A privilege, Miss Lane.
I won't fail you.
You have all my confidence and all my trust.
Mr Dowland.
I heard you were ill.
Forgive me, I merely wished to know how you fared.
I see you are in a wretched way.
I assure you, I merely look like death.
I shall do very well.
Thomas is to manage the deliveries and Laura is going to take care of the business.
And who is going totake care of you? Mr Dowland, the greatest risk I run is being bored to death.
The doctor tells me I must remain where I am for at least a week.
But then you must listen to him.
If you were in this bed, you would not be so glib.
Miss Lane, if I were in that bed It's very kind of you to call but I'm afraid I'm feeling rather tired.
Of course.
Minnie, how much doesMiss Lane pay you? Two shilling a week and my bed and board, sir.
I'll pay you a further two shillings a week if you will nurse her for the duration of her illness.
Sir! Two conditions.
One, you take your orders regarding the sickbed from me.
And two, neither Miss Lane nor anyone else will ever find out about this arrangement.
Understood? Sir! MR DOWLAND: Carved stone panels, either side of the tower.
The theme or design of which I will, of course, leave up to you.
Carved stone panels? Exactly.
Eight in total.
Yes.
You haven't told her.
Mr Dowland, a job like this don't come around too often and Lord knows I ain't trying to talkmyself out of the work, but for the sake of your sanity, as well as your purse, I have to ask, why not just tell the woman how you feel? This is not a clock.
This is the most expensive roundabout declaration a man has ever failed to make to a woman.
You know, I have heard it said that often, actions speak louder than words.
Louder, perhaps, but not nearly so clear.
Nevertheless.
Now, name your terms.
Laura's most likely lying in her bed with her heart pounding at the thrill and the challenge and the excitement of it all.
You remember what it was like at that age.
Everything burns so bright.
And it doesn't any more? "The girl in the Post Office.
"Silly bich.
" COWS MOO Good morning.
Miss Margaret.
Embrocation of my own making for Miss Lane.
For Miss Lane's (For her chest).
And the collected sermons of John Henry Newman.
Embrocation for the soul.
Girded and ready.
Do you suppose we'll do, Thomas Brown? I suppose we shall have to.
CHEERING AND APPLAUSE They all want to buy a stamp off the acting postmistress.
They can't afford it.
Tell them they mustn't.
You let them show their pride for you in the way they choose.
COUGHING I shall pass the morning here.
COUGHING If the doctor wishes me to spend the entire day in my bed, he can carry me there himself.
Miss Ellison called.
Why did this incapacity have to strike me of all people? I am never ill.
And at such a time, too! Laura and Fisher.
He don't take his eyes off her.
She's all lit up and glowing like a candle.
It is like I used to play with my dolls.
"Now, Miss Polly, should you like to marry Mr Teapot? "Here he is come to call.
" Dolls can't have their hearts broken.
Minnie, I would like you to ask Mr Fisher Bloom to call on me.
This is for your chest.
Miss Ellison made it herself.
Open wide.
For Miss Lane, with our best.
And I should like a penny stamp, if you please, Laura.
Yes.
I don't suppose you can knock a bit off that, you know, for old friends? Must we really stand here all day while every cottager in the district buys a single stamp?! Why, no, ma'am.
We provide a chair for customers whose age makes standing a difficulty.
You may sit the process out if you wish.
BELL RINGING I have it.
MACHINE CLICKING AND WHIRRING Oh, they are beautiful! Thank you.
MACHINE CLICKING AND WHIRRING Miss Pearl, Miss Ruby, I believe this is for you.
"A princess ball gown of deepest, er It's a four-letter word ending in E.
"Adorned with somethinggold, something?" A four-letter word ending in E and a seven-letter word ending in S.
I'm very much afraid our telegraphic instrument has developed a fault.
If this don't work, I can get you a spoonful of sugar.
An embrocation is for TOPICAL application, Minnie.
One RUBS it in.
Well, I know that now but Miss Ellison was not at all clear.
KNOCKING AT DOOR DOOR OPENING Fisher, how kind of you to come.
Please sit down.
How does work on the clock progress? There was me thinking you wanted to talk about Laura.
You watch me.
And you watch Laura.
Do you like her? Yes.
When I say like, I mean I know what you mean.
Yes.
But when the clock is finished, you will move on.
I always move on.
You are a plain speaker, I know.
So, you will forgive my plain-speaking.
Laura's poise is deceptive.
She's younger than she seems.
And far more vulnerable than she looks.
And if you cared about her as you say you do, you would not be trying to make her fall in love with you.
I'm not trying to do anything.
You're doing nothing to stop it.
Why would I if I feel the same? Because you will move on and she will not.
You will have new horizons with which to distract yourself.
She will have nothing but reminders of what she has lost.
There is a fine line between carefree and callous, Mr Bloom.
I ask only that you tread it carefully.
Thank you for your plain-speaking, Miss Lane.
Fisher! Miss Lane wanted to speak to me about the clock You'll never guess! They all came, Ma, Pa, almost the whole of Lark Rise! What? Nothing.
It's been that busy, I haven't even been able to step outside the door.
We could go for a walk later.
Not today.
Oh.
Tomorrow, maybe.
I don't think so.
Has something happened? Just don't think we need to be in each other's pockets all the time, that's all.
Have I Did I do something wrong? Of course not.
Laura, you're a lovely girl, but a man can have too much of a good thing, you know? Shaming us like that in front of everyone.
If you're going to talk about shaming, what about them Pratt twins? Their faces when our Laura showed them what for! They're not twins, you duffer! Miss Pearl can give Miss Ruby a good ten years.
Why do they go around dressing so alike for then? Mutton dressed as lamb.
And lamb dressed as mutton.
Right.
I'll see back you home then.
Why, where are you going? I ain't going anywhere.
I'm staying to watch Laura sort out these Candleford toffs.
She's as good as a show.
Good day to you.
Do come again.
For pity's sake, girl! It's simple enough.
I'm Miss Lane.
You come in and But you don't look nothing like her and she don't swear at me, even after the embroider-ication.
Well, perhaps I won't, if you get it right.
Now go again.
This time, no noise.
I don't believe it.
BELL RINGING Good.
And then you say? Please, miss, if you think you could fancy a little refreshment I thought I smelt it! Golden silk tea! Hm.
Too much hyssop and not enough honey.
You should have come to me.
Let her have as much of the tea as she likes, Minnie.
And take a pot of stew with you as well.
Stew will never pass as mine, sir.
It smells delicious.
Then perhaps you might burn it a little for authenticity.
Oh, yes, I'll do that, sir.
And remember, Minnie, flowers on the tray.
Always flowers.
Your mother said that tea was the only thing that eased her fevers.
You used to watch me brewing it.
I had to stand you on a stool so's you could reach the table.
For Miss Lane, is it? Why do you always have to do your caring in secret? Like there's something shaming in it.
You were the same as a boy.
Little presents left for me, but never a word from the giver.
Maybe I didn't have the words for what I wanted to say.
Maybe you don't now.
MAN: Mrs Rochford would like to speak with you, sir.
Excuse me.
Four letters ending in E describing a colour.
"Princess ballgown of deepestblue.
" It could be puce.
Or lime.
"Trimmed with either "five or nine gold" Ribbons or tassels? Or baubles.
This is really quite ridiculous.
Miss Lane should be informed, influenza or no influenza.
One would think the Princess too fair for lime and certainly too young for puce.
You are younger and you are wearing puce.
Well, yes.
It is different for me.
I am I am Lamb dressed as mutton.
Ruby, bring me the bolt of blue silk and the little pearl buttons we purchased in Oxford.
Well, come along, we haven't got all day! BELL RINGING Thank you, sir.
Bonjour.
Come again, sir.
I might almost believe that this instrument knows its mistress.
It's ailing cos she is.
Perhaps a course of action might present itself after we've had some tea.
Tea? Can't say a little something wouldn't slip down easy after a day on my feet.
It isn't right.
I'm sure Miss Lane would have no objection to Twister joining us.
Our telegraph apparatus, it's never failed.
It's like Miss Lane is what holds everything together.
Without Miss Lane Without Miss Lane, we have to help each other and not let circumstances overwhelm us.
Well, I think she should be told.
No! She's given us this responsibility.
We have to deal with this ourselves.
About that tea.
"You're not as clever as you think.
" BELL RINGING Fisher.
I think you have a parcel for me.
And the hat.
Don't forget the hat.
Working man like me has standards to maintain.
Here, a pocket full of pennies for holding the door for them Candleford toffs.
And sixpence for taking a gentleman's horse while he answered the call of nature.
Earning your keep at last, are you? # Maids, when you're young never wed an old man.
# He'll do for me.
What are you so hen cheerful for anyway? PLAYING A JOLLY TUNE Queenie.
If someone has a belt, some feathers and silver sixpence and a sprig of rosemary, what might that mean? Black feathers? Men! Blessed innocents, every one.
That combination is the best thing women know for keeping grey hairs at bay.
OWL HOOTING MUFFLED SOUND What shall we do? Thomas! You can never wake a sleep walker or they'll drop dead and never wake at all.
MISS LANE: Laura! Ask Miss Lane.
She'll know.
No! She must not be troubled.
No, follow Thomas.
We must make sure hecomes to no harm.
PANTING Laura, I thought I heard noises.
Oh, it was just me.
I was getting myself ready for tomorrow.
I didn't mean to disturb you.
COUGHING Is there anything I can get you? Minnie is taking such good care of me.
Tea and more tea.
Flowers on my tray.
Always flowers.
She's a born nurse.
Who'd have thought it? Are you feeling any better?Why? Are you in such a rush to lose your new position? I'm I'm managing.
Although I should not like to do so permanently.
Oh, Laura.
You remind me very much of myself at your age.
You should get some rest now.
You have all my confidence and all my trust .
.
and a little of my envy.
Because when you spread your wings for the very first time, and realise you really can fly .
.
it's so magical, is it not? Minnie! What are we going to do? We'll think of something, somehow.
Minnie, not a word of this to Miss Lane, do you understand? Go after him.
Make sure he's all right.
I will.
MISS PRATT: Do you not see, this way, we show our clientele that we cater both for the ingenue and the women of maturity.
I have held you back long enough, Ruby.
I shall do so no more.
My dear, I think you have made a conquest already.
BELL RINGING SNORING I'm so sorry, Mrs Larkham.
Our postman was unwell this morning.
I assure you it won't happen again.
Oh, Mr Stokes.
I believe some of your post was also misdelivered.
I'm sure we have a letter for you here.
It's considered customary to show your appreciation! Some people have no class.
Twister! You cannot demand money for holding the door! I ain't demanding, I'm just saying it's a matter of common courtesy.
Yesterday's lot understood.
Made near on a shilling.
You made?! You can't! I mean, you mustn't.
Why not? Ain't I doing a good job? It's not a job, Twister! It's It's not a job.
But I sat down with you for staff tea.
I was bringing money home.
I'm sorry.
BELL RINGING Laura, you should know that we have had another telegraphic communication.
Mr Dowland's stockbroker enjoins him to invest in a six-letter commodity which might be copper, cotton or cobalt.
He further suggests Mr Dowland pays no more than what might be 13, 14, shillings for the hundredweight.
The malfunctioning of our apparatus is a disaster that can be kept from Miss Lane no longer.
SOBBING FISHER: Laura.
Go away.
Please.
Just go away.
Laura, your hand, it's bleeding.
I don't know how.
What it is it? Don't touch it, please.
BELL RINGING Ladies.
CLEARING THROAT I'm looking for a gift, something pretty that a woman might pin on her dress.
Or In her hair.
DOOR CLOSING BOTH: MrDowland.
Ladies I have an item which I would like giftwrapped and even though I didn't purchase it it in your fine establishment Say no more.
Ruby? How her young fingers do fly.
The dexterity of youth.
This gift, would it be for a young lady, someone perhaps ofmy sister's age or for a woman of more mature years such as myself? Let's say somewhere between.
What a What a soft item it is.
A drape perhaps or a scarf? A small token for our sick neighbour.
Poor Miss Lane, such a dear old friend.
She and I go back, well, I hardly dare say how long.
Ruby, won't remember of course.
A ribbon now can be worn at any age.
I myself would not scorn such an ornament.
As to the colour.
Scarlet.
A bold choice and threepence a yard.
I'll have two yards, giftwrapped.
Miss Lane's indisposition leaves a sad gap in our society but we must try and fill it.
I wonder, would you care to take tea with us this afternoon? Shall we say four? There.
How much do I? No no.
Thank you.
Thank you.
Let us hope Mr Dowland delivers it himself.
Influenza is ruinous to the complexion.
Pearl! Poor Miss Lane.
Poor Miss Lane has had her chance, now it's your turn.
I cannot accept this.
You must tell Mr Dowland it is too extravagant.
He said you'd say that.
I'm to tell you it's not extravagant, it's advertising.
He has got shares in the company and when everyone sees you wearing it, they'll all want one themselves and he will make his fortune, again.
Cashmere is my one weakness.
I don't know, I am too tired to think.
That's what you get for sitting up all morning.
You close your eyes and I'll bring you some of that thingy seal tea later.
Open the window before you leave.
I like to hear the noise from the street.
And if I find you out of your bed, I shall invite Miss Ellison up to read those sermons to you aloud.
It's not like she hasn't offered.
You are taking such good care of me, Minnie.
I'd do anything for you ma'am.
I would.
You don't know who sent it? Or why they might want to torment you.
Perhaps you should tell Miss Lane.
No, I will not tell Miss Lane! Miss Lane is ill, why can't no-one see that? We are not such children that we should be disturbing our mother on her sick bed.
Then what will you do? Did you just get bored? Is that what? LOUD GASPING Minnie! COUGHING LABOURED BREATHING GASPING Passed through Candleford on my way home.
Did you see Laura? Laura wasn't my business in Candleford.
You were.
Two yards.
You might trim a hat or wrap it a few times round that little waist of yours.
Have you done something? You have such a suspicious mind.
It is a present, Emmie, no-strings, no secrets, a gift.
Ethel, fork not fingers.
It's beautiful.
You can't afford it.
All right, I got it because I thought you might need cheering up.
Cheering up? Why? I haven't been gloomy.
Have I been gloomy? If you must know, I found a certain little bag containing certain objects and I asked Queenie what it might mean.
And she told me.
So now perhaps we might drop this subject so that certain little pitchers listening at this moment don't go around telling the whole of Lark Rise your business.
For what it is worth I can't say you've got any.
No.
I haven't.
You must not get up from the table.
Where? It's only one or two.
Where? Here.
And there is one there and there.
ALL LAUGHING They were all addressed to the girl in the Post Office.
I thought they were for me.
Look what he did to poor Miss Polly.
Now he's coming for me.
This man, your father He isn't my father.
He's my mother's husband.
Fearful of him? Was he harsh? Did he .
.
hurt you? If I was bad Beat you? If I was bad, he beat my ma and my sisters and if one of them did something he didn't like, he beat me.
He said, "You remember the lesson better now, right?" This man, he can't take you away by force.
If you are in service, your parents must have signed your indentures.
Legally, you belong here.
He's right.
But they didn't sign them.
I did.
They never knew, thought I'd just upped and went like my sisters.
I have no right to be here and now he knows where I am.
You're safe here.
You're with us.
He hates the people I love and he hurts me and no-one can stop him.
No-one can ever stop him.
SOBBING Miss Lane thinks I can do this.
She thinks I'm like her but I'm not.
And I can't.
I can't be the one responsible, it's too hard.
Do you really think that? Or are you just saying that so that I tell you that you can.
You've the wit and the will for anything.
You think you can take people apart like clocks.
It is an honest question now.
Why is your kind of honest always about finding fault? That's not true.
It is when you're talking to me.
"Oh, I think I'm a catch.
"I've got an opinion of myself.
"I'm this, I'm that.
"Oh, I'm just looking for praise.
" You've never said one true thing to me that didn't hurt.
I'll tell you one true thing.
You're all I think about.
All day, all night .
.
all the time.
You didn't say.
I'm saying now.
I don't understand.
I have to go.
In the end, I'll have to go.
You're here now.
I'll tell you a true thing.
I'm scared to tell Miss Lane about Minnie.
About the telegraph apparatus being broken.
That Thomas sleepwalks all night and cannot make his rounds in the day.
I'm scared not only because she is ill and should be allowed to rest .
.
but because it will mean that I have failed.
And I cannot bear to fail.
I think perhaps that's my one weakness.
Miss Lane! When one sees a face day-in, day-out, one is wont to forget how lovely it is.
Pearl! For reasons Oh, reasons become so tangled, there's no getting to the bottom of them.
But I have held you too tight to my side for too long.
The best of your life lies before you still.
Mine is passed.
That's the truth of it.
And, whatever his origins, Mr James Dowland has proved himself a man amongst men.
Now, when he is here you must come forward.
You were as quiet as a mouse this morning.
If I am to come forward, then you must go back.
Sometimes there's not room for both of us, conversationally speaking.
Mr Dowland.
Mr Dowland.
Ladies.
Shall we go through? Please, I need your help! It's Miss Lane! The doctor's in Oxford.
He's not expected back until tomorrow.
She's so cold.
There is a doctor in Fordlow, if someone could ride.
Not Fordlow.
It would take too long.
Lark Rise.
WEAK COUGHING Miss Lane? Minnie WEAKLY:She screamed.
Where's Minnie? So, you didn't care for being married to an old man, was that it? It's not that.
It's just Everything seems so perfect at the moment.
There's money coming in, the children well.
You and me.
I suppose I just wanted everything to stop where it is.
I keep pictures in my mind.
The night Laura was born you holding her in the bed.
The doctor with snow on his hat.
The day Edmund tried to teach Ethel to fly.
SNIGGERING If you could stop it where it is, Emmie, there would be no more moments to turn into memories.
When did you get to be so wise and accepting? It's the grey hairs.
There's gravitas in their wick.
Do I get to keep the ribbon, now? Seriously, there are parts of me that would look very special with a scarlet ribbon on.
LAUGHING Is she here? I've checked the outbuildings, no sign.
What if he came for her? The man who calls himself her stepfather? What if he came like a thief in the night and took her from us? We must telegraph the police in Oxford.
It's broken, the telegraph apparatus.
Then someone must ride to the nearest town.
Mr Dowland! Oh, he's gone to Lark Rise.
It's a Wheatstone.
The workings of this dial was designed by a clockmaker.
I can fix it, but I don't know how long it'd take.
I'll stay with Miss Lane.
You and Miss Ellison must go around Candleford.
If Minnie's been taken, someone must've seen something.
Someone must have heard.
She wouldn't have gone quietly.
SNORING CARRIAGE RATTLING It's little James! I need you to come with me.
The doctor is in Oxford and Miss Lane She's worse? She must have fallen.
The window was open.
She is so cold.
Is she flushed? Yes.
Shaking or still? Still.
Very still.
And her breathing? Shallow, like there's a weight on her chest.
MUTTERING I'm coming to Miss Lane, but you must tell me why.
But I've just told you, because she's sick.
That's why I am doing it for her.
Why am I doing it for you? I've seen you, boy and man.
You built yourself up, made yourself strong.
And you ARE strong.
But I'm telling you now, the words you don't speak will choke you in the end.
So, come on.
Here, now, where there's just you and me and not a soul else to hear us.
You tell me why I'm going to her.
Because I know what it's like to wake up in a world when the sun's gone out of it.
Your mother was a rare joy to know.
But Miss Lane is stronger.
Good day, sir.
Madam.
It's all in the wrist action, see.
Not everyone can do that.
I sat down with them! For staff tea! Staff tea, she called it.
Staff tea.
It's cold.
Why is it so cold? PANTS: I asked Minnie to open the window.
Where is Minnie? She'll be back soon.
She's only gone out on a delivery.
Queenie! Oh, look at you, you poor child.
Mrs Turrill? That's right.
And everything's gonna be all right.
You can leave her with me now.
LAURA: If he had a horse, he could be anywhere with her by now.
If that is the case, we must mount a search party.
Nothing.
No-one saw anything, no-one heard anything.
It's done, you can telegraph the police in Oxford.
Unto thee will I cry.
Oh, Lord, my rock.
Be not silent to me, BOTH:Lest if thou be silent to me I become like them that go down into the pit.
Hear the voice of my plea for mercy when I cry to you for help.
When I lift up my hands URGENT KNOCKING My Lord! Millie! We were so scared.
So scared! I brought her home, see.
But I ain't letting her in if he's here.
That monster she's running away from.
Had the notion if she'd stayed he'd have tried to hurt Miss Lane.
That man is not under this roof and never shall be whilst Thomas Brown draws breath.
When my mother and father forsake me, then the Lord will take me up.
Psalm 27.
You have the Lord and you have the Post Office.
And neither will fail you.
I wonder if one of you might explain to me what exactly is going on here.
I thought Mr Dowland showed a certain regard for you.
But it seems it is and always has been Miss Lane to whom Dowland's thoughts turn.
I can only say that for a man of discernment he's a fool when it comes to matters of the heart.
Pearl I do like Mr James Dowland.
But .
.
I'm not sure I like him well enough to have him always about me.
And if we'd married and he'd come to live with us, we should never have been rid of him.
What can you mean? If you had married Mr Dowland, he would not have lived here.
Where else should he have lived? Why, you would have lived with him, of course, in his home.
But I always supposed if one of us were to marry, the gentleman would come and live with us, over the shop.
As did Papa.
Ruby, what notions you do have.
But I should not care to live with a husband and no sister.
I should not care for that at all.
I think I should die of loneliness.
These belong in the fire.
For the attention of How should I address your stepfather? I know how I'd like to address him.
JohnMude.
For the attention of Mr JohnMude .
.
regarding the sending of malicious correspondence and items to My given name is Winifred.
.
.
Miss Winifred Mude, of the Post Office, Candleford.
Stop.
Under section 61, paragraph 12 of Post Office articles, it is an offence under law to dispatch such correspondence Miss Lane.
.
.
through the auspices of the Royal Mail.
And, as such, is punishable by up to two years in prison and a fine of ã100.
Miss Lane.
Yes, what is it, Thomas? There is no section You are quite right.
Why limit myself? Five years in prison and a fine of ã200.
Do you have that? And if that doesn't scare him, Thomas, you shall have to.
Be my pleasure, ma'am.
The indentures may be a little trickier.
But my solicitor will attend tomorrow.
Hopeful of taking my will, no doubt.
I think we can put him to better use.
Am I safe, then? Oh, Minnie.
You are ours.
And no-one shall take you from us.
Oh, Miss Lane.
Miss Lane.
And now, I think I should return to my bed.
Thank you.
I can manage quite well on my own.
ALL: Good night, Miss Lane.
Well I believe I shall take my leave of you as well.
Good night.
Good night, sir.
Good night, James.
Night, James.
WHISPERS:Eavesdropping? I find myself more tired than I thought.
I imagine such creativity must be draining.
You think I acted improperly? Illegally, even? I think you acted magnificently.
I think you are magnificent.
Mr Dowland James.
I wonder, would you give me the favour of your arm? 'It seemed to me that all the threads of all the stories 'being played out around Miss Lane met and crossed in her hands.
'Such clever, capable hands.
' Ladies, you look very well.
That colour is most becoming to both of you.
So good to see you fully recovered, Miss Lane.
'It was easy to forget that fate was also busy spinning a story.
'And none of us knew how it would play out.
' 'So little time, shouldn't we make the most of what we have?' Miss Lane, perhaps you do not understand.
Until I receive the part, the clock cannot be finished.
The urgency is great enough.
I believe it possible that someone in this room has acted in a manner unbefitting of Post Office employee.
Oh, Margaret!Oh, Thomas! The date of the inauguration is set.
Everything is set.
I'm aware of your plans.
Then you will see to it that no action
'And all the threads of all the storiesbeing played out around her 'seemed to meet and cross in her hands.
'Such clever, capable hands.
'It was impossible to imagine they could ever falter or fail.
' "Requesting every detail "of the Princess's costume ".
.
including ornament, coiffure, and toilette.
"Stop.
Miss Lane! Found him in a ditch.
Said he was picking crab apples, like you said, when a faintness came over him.
So where are the crab apples then? Gypsies, took them from me where I lay.
Well, thank the Lord you're back now.
Where you belong.
On your tailbone! You uselessslack critter! I have a pain! We've got mouths to feed.
I'm ailing! The only thing that ails you isbeing born idle and bone idle.
Which is more than can be said for Miss Lane.
Just passed the farmer on his way back from Candleford.
Says she's been taken to bed with a fever and he reckons Laura's put in charge of the Post Office.
Minnie, I have influenza.
It is not terminal merely Thomas.
Miss Lane.
You'll have to manage Laura's round as well as your own.
And could do so in my sleep, ma'am.
And Laura, I'm so sorry to burden you like this.
It's no burden.
A privilege, Miss Lane.
I won't fail you.
You have all my confidence and all my trust.
Mr Dowland.
I heard you were ill.
Forgive me, I merely wished to know how you fared.
I see you are in a wretched way.
I assure you, I merely look like death.
I shall do very well.
Thomas is to manage the deliveries and Laura is going to take care of the business.
And who is going totake care of you? Mr Dowland, the greatest risk I run is being bored to death.
The doctor tells me I must remain where I am for at least a week.
But then you must listen to him.
If you were in this bed, you would not be so glib.
Miss Lane, if I were in that bed It's very kind of you to call but I'm afraid I'm feeling rather tired.
Of course.
Minnie, how much doesMiss Lane pay you? Two shilling a week and my bed and board, sir.
I'll pay you a further two shillings a week if you will nurse her for the duration of her illness.
Sir! Two conditions.
One, you take your orders regarding the sickbed from me.
And two, neither Miss Lane nor anyone else will ever find out about this arrangement.
Understood? Sir! MR DOWLAND: Carved stone panels, either side of the tower.
The theme or design of which I will, of course, leave up to you.
Carved stone panels? Exactly.
Eight in total.
Yes.
You haven't told her.
Mr Dowland, a job like this don't come around too often and Lord knows I ain't trying to talkmyself out of the work, but for the sake of your sanity, as well as your purse, I have to ask, why not just tell the woman how you feel? This is not a clock.
This is the most expensive roundabout declaration a man has ever failed to make to a woman.
You know, I have heard it said that often, actions speak louder than words.
Louder, perhaps, but not nearly so clear.
Nevertheless.
Now, name your terms.
Laura's most likely lying in her bed with her heart pounding at the thrill and the challenge and the excitement of it all.
You remember what it was like at that age.
Everything burns so bright.
And it doesn't any more? "The girl in the Post Office.
"Silly bich.
" COWS MOO Good morning.
Miss Margaret.
Embrocation of my own making for Miss Lane.
For Miss Lane's (For her chest).
And the collected sermons of John Henry Newman.
Embrocation for the soul.
Girded and ready.
Do you suppose we'll do, Thomas Brown? I suppose we shall have to.
CHEERING AND APPLAUSE They all want to buy a stamp off the acting postmistress.
They can't afford it.
Tell them they mustn't.
You let them show their pride for you in the way they choose.
COUGHING I shall pass the morning here.
COUGHING If the doctor wishes me to spend the entire day in my bed, he can carry me there himself.
Miss Ellison called.
Why did this incapacity have to strike me of all people? I am never ill.
And at such a time, too! Laura and Fisher.
He don't take his eyes off her.
She's all lit up and glowing like a candle.
It is like I used to play with my dolls.
"Now, Miss Polly, should you like to marry Mr Teapot? "Here he is come to call.
" Dolls can't have their hearts broken.
Minnie, I would like you to ask Mr Fisher Bloom to call on me.
This is for your chest.
Miss Ellison made it herself.
Open wide.
For Miss Lane, with our best.
And I should like a penny stamp, if you please, Laura.
Yes.
I don't suppose you can knock a bit off that, you know, for old friends? Must we really stand here all day while every cottager in the district buys a single stamp?! Why, no, ma'am.
We provide a chair for customers whose age makes standing a difficulty.
You may sit the process out if you wish.
BELL RINGING I have it.
MACHINE CLICKING AND WHIRRING Oh, they are beautiful! Thank you.
MACHINE CLICKING AND WHIRRING Miss Pearl, Miss Ruby, I believe this is for you.
"A princess ball gown of deepest, er It's a four-letter word ending in E.
"Adorned with somethinggold, something?" A four-letter word ending in E and a seven-letter word ending in S.
I'm very much afraid our telegraphic instrument has developed a fault.
If this don't work, I can get you a spoonful of sugar.
An embrocation is for TOPICAL application, Minnie.
One RUBS it in.
Well, I know that now but Miss Ellison was not at all clear.
KNOCKING AT DOOR DOOR OPENING Fisher, how kind of you to come.
Please sit down.
How does work on the clock progress? There was me thinking you wanted to talk about Laura.
You watch me.
And you watch Laura.
Do you like her? Yes.
When I say like, I mean I know what you mean.
Yes.
But when the clock is finished, you will move on.
I always move on.
You are a plain speaker, I know.
So, you will forgive my plain-speaking.
Laura's poise is deceptive.
She's younger than she seems.
And far more vulnerable than she looks.
And if you cared about her as you say you do, you would not be trying to make her fall in love with you.
I'm not trying to do anything.
You're doing nothing to stop it.
Why would I if I feel the same? Because you will move on and she will not.
You will have new horizons with which to distract yourself.
She will have nothing but reminders of what she has lost.
There is a fine line between carefree and callous, Mr Bloom.
I ask only that you tread it carefully.
Thank you for your plain-speaking, Miss Lane.
Fisher! Miss Lane wanted to speak to me about the clock You'll never guess! They all came, Ma, Pa, almost the whole of Lark Rise! What? Nothing.
It's been that busy, I haven't even been able to step outside the door.
We could go for a walk later.
Not today.
Oh.
Tomorrow, maybe.
I don't think so.
Has something happened? Just don't think we need to be in each other's pockets all the time, that's all.
Have I Did I do something wrong? Of course not.
Laura, you're a lovely girl, but a man can have too much of a good thing, you know? Shaming us like that in front of everyone.
If you're going to talk about shaming, what about them Pratt twins? Their faces when our Laura showed them what for! They're not twins, you duffer! Miss Pearl can give Miss Ruby a good ten years.
Why do they go around dressing so alike for then? Mutton dressed as lamb.
And lamb dressed as mutton.
Right.
I'll see back you home then.
Why, where are you going? I ain't going anywhere.
I'm staying to watch Laura sort out these Candleford toffs.
She's as good as a show.
Good day to you.
Do come again.
For pity's sake, girl! It's simple enough.
I'm Miss Lane.
You come in and But you don't look nothing like her and she don't swear at me, even after the embroider-ication.
Well, perhaps I won't, if you get it right.
Now go again.
This time, no noise.
I don't believe it.
BELL RINGING Good.
And then you say? Please, miss, if you think you could fancy a little refreshment I thought I smelt it! Golden silk tea! Hm.
Too much hyssop and not enough honey.
You should have come to me.
Let her have as much of the tea as she likes, Minnie.
And take a pot of stew with you as well.
Stew will never pass as mine, sir.
It smells delicious.
Then perhaps you might burn it a little for authenticity.
Oh, yes, I'll do that, sir.
And remember, Minnie, flowers on the tray.
Always flowers.
Your mother said that tea was the only thing that eased her fevers.
You used to watch me brewing it.
I had to stand you on a stool so's you could reach the table.
For Miss Lane, is it? Why do you always have to do your caring in secret? Like there's something shaming in it.
You were the same as a boy.
Little presents left for me, but never a word from the giver.
Maybe I didn't have the words for what I wanted to say.
Maybe you don't now.
MAN: Mrs Rochford would like to speak with you, sir.
Excuse me.
Four letters ending in E describing a colour.
"Princess ballgown of deepestblue.
" It could be puce.
Or lime.
"Trimmed with either "five or nine gold" Ribbons or tassels? Or baubles.
This is really quite ridiculous.
Miss Lane should be informed, influenza or no influenza.
One would think the Princess too fair for lime and certainly too young for puce.
You are younger and you are wearing puce.
Well, yes.
It is different for me.
I am I am Lamb dressed as mutton.
Ruby, bring me the bolt of blue silk and the little pearl buttons we purchased in Oxford.
Well, come along, we haven't got all day! BELL RINGING Thank you, sir.
Bonjour.
Come again, sir.
I might almost believe that this instrument knows its mistress.
It's ailing cos she is.
Perhaps a course of action might present itself after we've had some tea.
Tea? Can't say a little something wouldn't slip down easy after a day on my feet.
It isn't right.
I'm sure Miss Lane would have no objection to Twister joining us.
Our telegraph apparatus, it's never failed.
It's like Miss Lane is what holds everything together.
Without Miss Lane Without Miss Lane, we have to help each other and not let circumstances overwhelm us.
Well, I think she should be told.
No! She's given us this responsibility.
We have to deal with this ourselves.
About that tea.
"You're not as clever as you think.
" BELL RINGING Fisher.
I think you have a parcel for me.
And the hat.
Don't forget the hat.
Working man like me has standards to maintain.
Here, a pocket full of pennies for holding the door for them Candleford toffs.
And sixpence for taking a gentleman's horse while he answered the call of nature.
Earning your keep at last, are you? # Maids, when you're young never wed an old man.
# He'll do for me.
What are you so hen cheerful for anyway? PLAYING A JOLLY TUNE Queenie.
If someone has a belt, some feathers and silver sixpence and a sprig of rosemary, what might that mean? Black feathers? Men! Blessed innocents, every one.
That combination is the best thing women know for keeping grey hairs at bay.
OWL HOOTING MUFFLED SOUND What shall we do? Thomas! You can never wake a sleep walker or they'll drop dead and never wake at all.
MISS LANE: Laura! Ask Miss Lane.
She'll know.
No! She must not be troubled.
No, follow Thomas.
We must make sure hecomes to no harm.
PANTING Laura, I thought I heard noises.
Oh, it was just me.
I was getting myself ready for tomorrow.
I didn't mean to disturb you.
COUGHING Is there anything I can get you? Minnie is taking such good care of me.
Tea and more tea.
Flowers on my tray.
Always flowers.
She's a born nurse.
Who'd have thought it? Are you feeling any better?Why? Are you in such a rush to lose your new position? I'm I'm managing.
Although I should not like to do so permanently.
Oh, Laura.
You remind me very much of myself at your age.
You should get some rest now.
You have all my confidence and all my trust .
.
and a little of my envy.
Because when you spread your wings for the very first time, and realise you really can fly .
.
it's so magical, is it not? Minnie! What are we going to do? We'll think of something, somehow.
Minnie, not a word of this to Miss Lane, do you understand? Go after him.
Make sure he's all right.
I will.
MISS PRATT: Do you not see, this way, we show our clientele that we cater both for the ingenue and the women of maturity.
I have held you back long enough, Ruby.
I shall do so no more.
My dear, I think you have made a conquest already.
BELL RINGING SNORING I'm so sorry, Mrs Larkham.
Our postman was unwell this morning.
I assure you it won't happen again.
Oh, Mr Stokes.
I believe some of your post was also misdelivered.
I'm sure we have a letter for you here.
It's considered customary to show your appreciation! Some people have no class.
Twister! You cannot demand money for holding the door! I ain't demanding, I'm just saying it's a matter of common courtesy.
Yesterday's lot understood.
Made near on a shilling.
You made?! You can't! I mean, you mustn't.
Why not? Ain't I doing a good job? It's not a job, Twister! It's It's not a job.
But I sat down with you for staff tea.
I was bringing money home.
I'm sorry.
BELL RINGING Laura, you should know that we have had another telegraphic communication.
Mr Dowland's stockbroker enjoins him to invest in a six-letter commodity which might be copper, cotton or cobalt.
He further suggests Mr Dowland pays no more than what might be 13, 14, shillings for the hundredweight.
The malfunctioning of our apparatus is a disaster that can be kept from Miss Lane no longer.
SOBBING FISHER: Laura.
Go away.
Please.
Just go away.
Laura, your hand, it's bleeding.
I don't know how.
What it is it? Don't touch it, please.
BELL RINGING Ladies.
CLEARING THROAT I'm looking for a gift, something pretty that a woman might pin on her dress.
Or In her hair.
DOOR CLOSING BOTH: MrDowland.
Ladies I have an item which I would like giftwrapped and even though I didn't purchase it it in your fine establishment Say no more.
Ruby? How her young fingers do fly.
The dexterity of youth.
This gift, would it be for a young lady, someone perhaps ofmy sister's age or for a woman of more mature years such as myself? Let's say somewhere between.
What a What a soft item it is.
A drape perhaps or a scarf? A small token for our sick neighbour.
Poor Miss Lane, such a dear old friend.
She and I go back, well, I hardly dare say how long.
Ruby, won't remember of course.
A ribbon now can be worn at any age.
I myself would not scorn such an ornament.
As to the colour.
Scarlet.
A bold choice and threepence a yard.
I'll have two yards, giftwrapped.
Miss Lane's indisposition leaves a sad gap in our society but we must try and fill it.
I wonder, would you care to take tea with us this afternoon? Shall we say four? There.
How much do I? No no.
Thank you.
Thank you.
Let us hope Mr Dowland delivers it himself.
Influenza is ruinous to the complexion.
Pearl! Poor Miss Lane.
Poor Miss Lane has had her chance, now it's your turn.
I cannot accept this.
You must tell Mr Dowland it is too extravagant.
He said you'd say that.
I'm to tell you it's not extravagant, it's advertising.
He has got shares in the company and when everyone sees you wearing it, they'll all want one themselves and he will make his fortune, again.
Cashmere is my one weakness.
I don't know, I am too tired to think.
That's what you get for sitting up all morning.
You close your eyes and I'll bring you some of that thingy seal tea later.
Open the window before you leave.
I like to hear the noise from the street.
And if I find you out of your bed, I shall invite Miss Ellison up to read those sermons to you aloud.
It's not like she hasn't offered.
You are taking such good care of me, Minnie.
I'd do anything for you ma'am.
I would.
You don't know who sent it? Or why they might want to torment you.
Perhaps you should tell Miss Lane.
No, I will not tell Miss Lane! Miss Lane is ill, why can't no-one see that? We are not such children that we should be disturbing our mother on her sick bed.
Then what will you do? Did you just get bored? Is that what? LOUD GASPING Minnie! COUGHING LABOURED BREATHING GASPING Passed through Candleford on my way home.
Did you see Laura? Laura wasn't my business in Candleford.
You were.
Two yards.
You might trim a hat or wrap it a few times round that little waist of yours.
Have you done something? You have such a suspicious mind.
It is a present, Emmie, no-strings, no secrets, a gift.
Ethel, fork not fingers.
It's beautiful.
You can't afford it.
All right, I got it because I thought you might need cheering up.
Cheering up? Why? I haven't been gloomy.
Have I been gloomy? If you must know, I found a certain little bag containing certain objects and I asked Queenie what it might mean.
And she told me.
So now perhaps we might drop this subject so that certain little pitchers listening at this moment don't go around telling the whole of Lark Rise your business.
For what it is worth I can't say you've got any.
No.
I haven't.
You must not get up from the table.
Where? It's only one or two.
Where? Here.
And there is one there and there.
ALL LAUGHING They were all addressed to the girl in the Post Office.
I thought they were for me.
Look what he did to poor Miss Polly.
Now he's coming for me.
This man, your father He isn't my father.
He's my mother's husband.
Fearful of him? Was he harsh? Did he .
.
hurt you? If I was bad Beat you? If I was bad, he beat my ma and my sisters and if one of them did something he didn't like, he beat me.
He said, "You remember the lesson better now, right?" This man, he can't take you away by force.
If you are in service, your parents must have signed your indentures.
Legally, you belong here.
He's right.
But they didn't sign them.
I did.
They never knew, thought I'd just upped and went like my sisters.
I have no right to be here and now he knows where I am.
You're safe here.
You're with us.
He hates the people I love and he hurts me and no-one can stop him.
No-one can ever stop him.
SOBBING Miss Lane thinks I can do this.
She thinks I'm like her but I'm not.
And I can't.
I can't be the one responsible, it's too hard.
Do you really think that? Or are you just saying that so that I tell you that you can.
You've the wit and the will for anything.
You think you can take people apart like clocks.
It is an honest question now.
Why is your kind of honest always about finding fault? That's not true.
It is when you're talking to me.
"Oh, I think I'm a catch.
"I've got an opinion of myself.
"I'm this, I'm that.
"Oh, I'm just looking for praise.
" You've never said one true thing to me that didn't hurt.
I'll tell you one true thing.
You're all I think about.
All day, all night .
.
all the time.
You didn't say.
I'm saying now.
I don't understand.
I have to go.
In the end, I'll have to go.
You're here now.
I'll tell you a true thing.
I'm scared to tell Miss Lane about Minnie.
About the telegraph apparatus being broken.
That Thomas sleepwalks all night and cannot make his rounds in the day.
I'm scared not only because she is ill and should be allowed to rest .
.
but because it will mean that I have failed.
And I cannot bear to fail.
I think perhaps that's my one weakness.
Miss Lane! When one sees a face day-in, day-out, one is wont to forget how lovely it is.
Pearl! For reasons Oh, reasons become so tangled, there's no getting to the bottom of them.
But I have held you too tight to my side for too long.
The best of your life lies before you still.
Mine is passed.
That's the truth of it.
And, whatever his origins, Mr James Dowland has proved himself a man amongst men.
Now, when he is here you must come forward.
You were as quiet as a mouse this morning.
If I am to come forward, then you must go back.
Sometimes there's not room for both of us, conversationally speaking.
Mr Dowland.
Mr Dowland.
Ladies.
Shall we go through? Please, I need your help! It's Miss Lane! The doctor's in Oxford.
He's not expected back until tomorrow.
She's so cold.
There is a doctor in Fordlow, if someone could ride.
Not Fordlow.
It would take too long.
Lark Rise.
WEAK COUGHING Miss Lane? Minnie WEAKLY:She screamed.
Where's Minnie? So, you didn't care for being married to an old man, was that it? It's not that.
It's just Everything seems so perfect at the moment.
There's money coming in, the children well.
You and me.
I suppose I just wanted everything to stop where it is.
I keep pictures in my mind.
The night Laura was born you holding her in the bed.
The doctor with snow on his hat.
The day Edmund tried to teach Ethel to fly.
SNIGGERING If you could stop it where it is, Emmie, there would be no more moments to turn into memories.
When did you get to be so wise and accepting? It's the grey hairs.
There's gravitas in their wick.
Do I get to keep the ribbon, now? Seriously, there are parts of me that would look very special with a scarlet ribbon on.
LAUGHING Is she here? I've checked the outbuildings, no sign.
What if he came for her? The man who calls himself her stepfather? What if he came like a thief in the night and took her from us? We must telegraph the police in Oxford.
It's broken, the telegraph apparatus.
Then someone must ride to the nearest town.
Mr Dowland! Oh, he's gone to Lark Rise.
It's a Wheatstone.
The workings of this dial was designed by a clockmaker.
I can fix it, but I don't know how long it'd take.
I'll stay with Miss Lane.
You and Miss Ellison must go around Candleford.
If Minnie's been taken, someone must've seen something.
Someone must have heard.
She wouldn't have gone quietly.
SNORING CARRIAGE RATTLING It's little James! I need you to come with me.
The doctor is in Oxford and Miss Lane She's worse? She must have fallen.
The window was open.
She is so cold.
Is she flushed? Yes.
Shaking or still? Still.
Very still.
And her breathing? Shallow, like there's a weight on her chest.
MUTTERING I'm coming to Miss Lane, but you must tell me why.
But I've just told you, because she's sick.
That's why I am doing it for her.
Why am I doing it for you? I've seen you, boy and man.
You built yourself up, made yourself strong.
And you ARE strong.
But I'm telling you now, the words you don't speak will choke you in the end.
So, come on.
Here, now, where there's just you and me and not a soul else to hear us.
You tell me why I'm going to her.
Because I know what it's like to wake up in a world when the sun's gone out of it.
Your mother was a rare joy to know.
But Miss Lane is stronger.
Good day, sir.
Madam.
It's all in the wrist action, see.
Not everyone can do that.
I sat down with them! For staff tea! Staff tea, she called it.
Staff tea.
It's cold.
Why is it so cold? PANTS: I asked Minnie to open the window.
Where is Minnie? She'll be back soon.
She's only gone out on a delivery.
Queenie! Oh, look at you, you poor child.
Mrs Turrill? That's right.
And everything's gonna be all right.
You can leave her with me now.
LAURA: If he had a horse, he could be anywhere with her by now.
If that is the case, we must mount a search party.
Nothing.
No-one saw anything, no-one heard anything.
It's done, you can telegraph the police in Oxford.
Unto thee will I cry.
Oh, Lord, my rock.
Be not silent to me, BOTH:Lest if thou be silent to me I become like them that go down into the pit.
Hear the voice of my plea for mercy when I cry to you for help.
When I lift up my hands URGENT KNOCKING My Lord! Millie! We were so scared.
So scared! I brought her home, see.
But I ain't letting her in if he's here.
That monster she's running away from.
Had the notion if she'd stayed he'd have tried to hurt Miss Lane.
That man is not under this roof and never shall be whilst Thomas Brown draws breath.
When my mother and father forsake me, then the Lord will take me up.
Psalm 27.
You have the Lord and you have the Post Office.
And neither will fail you.
I wonder if one of you might explain to me what exactly is going on here.
I thought Mr Dowland showed a certain regard for you.
But it seems it is and always has been Miss Lane to whom Dowland's thoughts turn.
I can only say that for a man of discernment he's a fool when it comes to matters of the heart.
Pearl I do like Mr James Dowland.
But .
.
I'm not sure I like him well enough to have him always about me.
And if we'd married and he'd come to live with us, we should never have been rid of him.
What can you mean? If you had married Mr Dowland, he would not have lived here.
Where else should he have lived? Why, you would have lived with him, of course, in his home.
But I always supposed if one of us were to marry, the gentleman would come and live with us, over the shop.
As did Papa.
Ruby, what notions you do have.
But I should not care to live with a husband and no sister.
I should not care for that at all.
I think I should die of loneliness.
These belong in the fire.
For the attention of How should I address your stepfather? I know how I'd like to address him.
JohnMude.
For the attention of Mr JohnMude .
.
regarding the sending of malicious correspondence and items to My given name is Winifred.
.
.
Miss Winifred Mude, of the Post Office, Candleford.
Stop.
Under section 61, paragraph 12 of Post Office articles, it is an offence under law to dispatch such correspondence Miss Lane.
.
.
through the auspices of the Royal Mail.
And, as such, is punishable by up to two years in prison and a fine of ã100.
Miss Lane.
Yes, what is it, Thomas? There is no section You are quite right.
Why limit myself? Five years in prison and a fine of ã200.
Do you have that? And if that doesn't scare him, Thomas, you shall have to.
Be my pleasure, ma'am.
The indentures may be a little trickier.
But my solicitor will attend tomorrow.
Hopeful of taking my will, no doubt.
I think we can put him to better use.
Am I safe, then? Oh, Minnie.
You are ours.
And no-one shall take you from us.
Oh, Miss Lane.
Miss Lane.
And now, I think I should return to my bed.
Thank you.
I can manage quite well on my own.
ALL: Good night, Miss Lane.
Well I believe I shall take my leave of you as well.
Good night.
Good night, sir.
Good night, James.
Night, James.
WHISPERS:Eavesdropping? I find myself more tired than I thought.
I imagine such creativity must be draining.
You think I acted improperly? Illegally, even? I think you acted magnificently.
I think you are magnificent.
Mr Dowland James.
I wonder, would you give me the favour of your arm? 'It seemed to me that all the threads of all the stories 'being played out around Miss Lane met and crossed in her hands.
'Such clever, capable hands.
' Ladies, you look very well.
That colour is most becoming to both of you.
So good to see you fully recovered, Miss Lane.
'It was easy to forget that fate was also busy spinning a story.
'And none of us knew how it would play out.
' 'So little time, shouldn't we make the most of what we have?' Miss Lane, perhaps you do not understand.
Until I receive the part, the clock cannot be finished.
The urgency is great enough.
I believe it possible that someone in this room has acted in a manner unbefitting of Post Office employee.
Oh, Margaret!Oh, Thomas! The date of the inauguration is set.
Everything is set.
I'm aware of your plans.
Then you will see to it that no action