Call the Midwife s03e08 Episode Script
Series 3, Episode 8
There we are.
Well done, Norma.
That's that bit done.
Oh, look at him, Norma! When can Jim see him? When I go down the Pig And Gate and fetch 'im.
He'll not set foot over this threshold until we're done.
In't that right, Nurse? Absolutely! And then we'll be sending that rotten old afterbirth down the allotment with your granddad, won't we? Just the ticket for his runner beans.
'The arrival of new life eclipses everything.
' Won't we? Yeah! 'When all goes well, the room is filled with happiness 'and all the pain that went before is forgotten.
'Where there was mystery, there is knowledge.
'Where there was fear, there is love.
' Just need to have another quick look at you, Norma.
That's bad It's not ideal, Mrs Tunnidge.
But we will manage this.
Norma! Stay with me, Norma.
Mrs Tunnidge, put Baby in his cot and keep him well wrapped up.
Could you pass me the kidney dish with the syringe, please? I'm going to give you an injection to help stop the bleeding, and then I'm going to massage your tummy to see if we can bring on another contraction.
What's happening? Part of the placenta hasn't quite come away, so we need to give it some help.
Could you ring a doctor, and then an ambulance, then we need some hot water bottles, to keep her warm till they arrive? Stay with me, Norma.
There's something coming away.
Good girl.
That's it! Is it over? I hope so.
Thanks, Nurse.
It's all right.
Oh, Nurse, you've got something on your face.
I can't believe what Mater's done.
She's only gone and bally discharged herself.
She told the ward sister she was checking into a private hotel, and any mail should be forwarded on to a place called Pijehurst Lodge.
So it's business as usual, really.
Excuse me, I must change for work.
I've a long night ahead.
Hello, dear.
You've a choice for your pudding tonight.
I tried my hand at an apple charlotte.
Or there's cling peaches and evap, if you want something lighter.
It's up to you.
I wish it was up to me.
Because if it was, I'd say apple charlotte.
Mum's been in the kitchen making it since you had your lunch.
We'll have that, then.
Apple charlotte it is.
You've done wonderfully well since arriving at the parish.
The men's group meet at my place once a week.
Numbers have grown, and we're going to have to meet elsewhere.
Men's group? Whatever happens in a men's group? Well, we discuss things that are of interest to men.
This time, we're talking about pregnancy and birth.
Oh, I-I-I think that might perturb them.
Well, if it does, it shouldn't, surely? Fear often comes from ignorance.
Mr Hereward, I couldn't agree more! I was actually hoping I might get some of you on my side.
Dr Turner's offered to talk us through the nuts and bolts, but if one or two of the midwives came along too, that would be even better.
And why is that? Well, I thought that they could put over the female point of view.
So much goes on behind closed doors when a baby's born.
I'll tell you what goes on behind closed doors, Mr Hereward.
A lot of hard work, that's what! No point in men discussing it.
It's a time for women to help women, and that is that.
I think most men would be a much better support to their wives if they at least had some inkling of what was going on.
I'd be happy to come along, Mr Hereward.
Thank you, Nurse Franklin.
Nurse Miller? Ooh, I'd absolutely love to, but I'm on call.
What about you, Patsy? Well, I've no objection.
As long as I'm back in time for Two-Way Family Favourites.
Talks at the parish men's group are the thin end of the wedge.
If you hear a single remark about men attending births, you are to report straight to me.
Yes, Sister.
The thing is, Nurse Mount, there's only so many people can fit in a delivery room.
And there is something special about a woman being supported by her mother.
The mother-daughter bond is a very precious thing.
I deem compline a place of succour for a soul in disarray.
Though I must not press you to join us, should you not desire it.
I rather suspect I do desire it.
I'm afraid I can't even think of what to think just now.
A conundrum that has ailed me much.
But in chapel, we need not choose our thoughts.
The words are aligned, like a rope for us to cling to.
How long ago did your mother die? I think that is not of any consequence.
Dates, after all, are only scratchings on a stone.
~ For thy loving kindness is comfortable ~ Turn thee unto me according to the multitude of thy mercies ~ And hide not thy face from thy servant, for I am in trouble ~ Haste thee, and hear me ~ Thou hast known my reproof, my shame, and my dishonour.
~ Morning, love.
Cup of tea, and into bed with this.
Once you've had some kip, you're going to visit your mother.
Has she been in touch? No.
But I tracked her down.
It was Pinewood Villa, not Pinehurst Lodge.
It's a private nursing home, and her fees are being paid by a charity called the League For Distressed Gentlewomen.
Charity? She doesn't need charity, Peter.
What sort of place is it? I draw your attention to the cup of tea, hot water bottle and kip routine.
Then you can go and find out.
Begging your pardon, Sister, but it's Sister Monica.
I will not be brought before the superior for a reprimand.
I am in the novitian, I am not in formation.
Oh, no She's really bad, Sister.
I found her halfway up the Commercial Road.
Sister.
Come inside, and warm yourself.
I don't know you.
Nor do I know what you are about in Sister Ada's office.
Oh, my dear.
This is not Sister Ada's office.
Sister Ada is no longer with us.
Now, then Don't you "now, then" me.
Thou art a peasant and a man, and as such no quarter should be given to you within these walls.
Should I go? No.
No Another man came once.
I deemed him a doctor, though he did not say.
He asked me questions that I refused to answer, lest I betray myself.
My mother calls me stupid.
Stupid .
.
and too tall.
Fred.
You'll find the keys to the safe in the top left-hand drawer of the chest.
You'll find a package in there, marked "Property of Miss Antonia Keville".
I know that name.
Of course you do.
I have seen these before.
They were your mother's.
And when she died - a long, long time ago - she left them for you as a gift.
These were her pearls.
They are so cold.
I know it's your favourite robe.
The repair wasn't tricky.
Did you use silk thread? No, rayon.
I thought it would be more durable.
Now, don't fall off the bed with excitement, but I brought you a smidgeon of savoury mince.
It's only what we had last night, but as I said to Peter, "There's no harm in popping some into a Tupperware!" What's Tupperware? It keeps food fresh.
I wasn't sure what the cuisine would be like.
It can be quite variable Well, it isn't variable here.
There's a baronet's widow across the landing.
It's in everyone's interests to keep up standards.
I'm still sure you'd be better looked after in a hospital - where there's pain relief.
I brought you a photograph of Freddie.
And one of Peter and I, on our wedding day.
I thought they might look nice on your bedside table.
I can't put that on display.
Why not? You're not in white.
And he's wearing a lounge suit.
One last thing.
Peter sent you satsumas.
But if they don't meet with your approval, then you can pass them on to the baronet's widow.
Sister Julienne says that if you eat a good lunch, she's happy for us to take care of you, and won't send for Doctor.
He could serve no purpose now.
I have been reminded that my mother is no more.
Her jewellery is very beautiful.
Our connection was never affectionate .
.
and my call to the religious life corrupted it completely.
Ladies and gentlemen.
Thank you.
Mrs Minter, we're about to begin.
I think, perhaps, if you could put your cigarette out until we break for tea.
As you will have gathered, we're going to be taking a close look at our favourite piece of Mozart tonight.
I know it's far and away the strongest thing in our repertoire, and for that very reason, I've decided it will be our entry at the Truscott Choral Festival at St Dacorum's Church.
But that's only a couple of weeks off! I know because my husband's a painter and decorator.
He's been brought in to emulsion the chancel.
From the very beginning, please, Timothy.
Oh.
Can we help you? Sorry, but this is the parish men's group.
We're having the health education session here.
No, you are not! But it's all been planned.
I've everybody's name written down on a list.
There's clearly been an error.
The choir has an exclusive weekly booking, and we aren't due to finish until nine.
Again, please, Timothy.
~ AveAve ~ That would make things go with a swing.
The nuns will be in compline.
Oh, do hurry up.
We're falling behind schedule! Ring the doorbell! Nobody bites! I bite if people don't wipe their feet.
I'm going to read out all the names on the list the reverend gave me, and I want you all to call out "present" so I can tick you off.
Colin Warneck? Present.
Walter Mills? Present.
Vernon Parker.
Present.
James Peachely? James Peachely, and Tony Muirhead? I think we may have lost them to the Hand And Shears! I'm sorry.
I don't believe you're on my list.
Should I be on a list? It's a requirement.
Worth.
Philip Worth.
Thank you, that all seems to be in order.
Right, now, as you can see, I have gone right back to square one.
This circle represents the ova, or the female egg, and this little chap here is the male gamete, or the sperm.
Sorry, Dr T, I think we've got a question.
Where do I go to get the milk of magnesia? What's the matter? Aren't you well? My cousin telephoned earlier.
She's expecting, and she's in agony with heartburn.
The midwife said she could be given an antacid, so I came to fetch it.
I just walked in with everybody else.
Follow me.
Ah, it's a good job you've come back here, actually - it's going to be a busy night.
I've just been called to Mrs Boyle on Flitch Street.
Oh, hello.
Evening.
I just had to rescue this poor chap from a terrifying ordeal.
Trial by the parish men's group.
And Patsy.
Well, looks like he's lived to tell the tale.
There's no harm done.
One bottle of milk of magnesia.
Nurse Lee will see you out.
Heartburn can be a rotten business.
Mind you, I've heard it means the baby's going to have a lot of hair.
I've heard that said where we come from.
Jeanette reckons it's an old wives' tale.
Whereabouts in Scotland are you from? Edinburgh.
I've just joined a barrister's chambers at Lincoln's Inn.
Thank you.
Follow me.
There's a nip in the air today.
Are you sure you don't want me to go to the cleaner's for your overcoat? I'm sure that No.
er, I'll take a scarf.
It's only a mild frost.
Would you get the post? I'm just trying to show you that I care.
"Dr and Mrs P Turner.
" Tim, go and wait in the car.
"After due consideration, we are pleased to inform you that "you have been accepted as adoptive parents" "We have every confidence that "in due course you will be able to offer an otherwise unwanted child "a very happy home.
" They seem very confident of that.
What? The notion that we have a happy home.
At the moment, I'm not sure that we do.
This really is a beautiful room, Mrs Heckford.
Oh, thank you.
I like to put my stamp on a place.
My husband and I have had to move round a lot, because of his work.
And what does your husband do? He's a marine engineer.
He's just been posted to Gibraltar for three weeks.
Does that mean you'll be alone when the baby comes? Well, I've got my cousin in residence.
I daresay we can train him to run errands and boil water.
Any port in a storm.
There won't be a storm.
You have a lovely home, and it feels to me as though Baby's in the perfect position.
Nicely lined up for delivery.
Is the head engaged? It is.
Have you been reading books? I've always been a reader.
And a painter, too, by the looks of it.
Oh.
That's my wee cousin's.
He's currently inspired by the music of Mussorgsky.
I love Mussorgsky! I went to a concert of his music at the Festival Hall last year.
I just wish he'd been inspired by something a little more comprehensible.
I like it.
Excellent.
I will pass on the compliment.
Lady Browne, if you can try and drink this - please, try I can't rest.
What's happening? I beg your pardon.
Are you a relative? My wife's her daughter.
I'm I'm visiting on her behalf.
Is the doctor on his way? He isn't expected until this evening.
We aren't equipped to cope with cases like this.
Lady Browne needs to be in hospital.
Help me! Help.
Hospital's the one place where she doesn't want to be.
Help me! Help.
Help me.
I'm sorry, your ladyship.
Where are we going? Home.
What-oh, Mater! Lady Browne? Lady Browne.
She's been sick in the wastepaper bin.
Well, better out than in.
I'll take it and give it a swill with some Dettol.
I want her visited three times a day until a bed at the London comes free.
If she can't get up the stairs, she will have to be nursed on the sofa in the meantime.
Yes, Doctor.
I will prescribe morphine in liquid form, for her to take when necessary.
I do know when I'm being discussed.
Mater.
Doctor's only trying to help.
She's right, Nurse.
Lady Browne, is there anything you'd like to ask me? Have a sip of water, Lady Browne.
You don't have to swallow, just wet your lips.
How long have I got? Weeks.
Many? No.
Days? It's impossible to say.
I thought what was impossible to say was the name of the disease.
People say "inflammation of the liver".
Some people just call it "the big C".
Never its name.
No.
Why? Because it is the thing that we fear the most.
Fear is the sentiment I don't hold with.
Ask her.
So.
Cancer.
The beast is named.
It's unlikely we'll ever tame it.
We can get it cornered for a while.
Chummy? Will you help me to organise some sheets? Roger, over and out.
I can remember you sewing a baby's nightdress in that chair.
Yes.
It wasn't to be.
What did you do with it? I gave it to Sister Julienne.
Someone else's baby will have it now.
I-I should have told you about my breakdown.
We started out in silence.
Not able to speak.
And after I dared to write to you, I thought, "Have I said too much? "Or not enough?" If I didn't speak of other things, that was my weakness, and my fault and I can only beg you to forgive me.
I won't forgive you, Patrick.
Because you did nothing wrong.
I didn't speak when I should've done.
I didn't let you when I should've done.
But we're speaking now.
Let that be the thing that matters.
Sister Monica Joan, would you like me to find your knitting bag? Or I could help you wind some wool, perhaps.
I find myself entirely disinclined to knit.
There are enough tangles already in my mind.
That's not true.
They are warm now.
And I fancy I detect my mother's scent upon them.
Sweet violet .
.
mingled with Wright's Coal Tar - the latter from my hand.
Oh, I wish we had made our peace sooner.
Your husband brought him down.
He's in the kitchen making a cup of tea.
My husband does have a name, Mater.
We're quite content with formal terms.
We have an arrangement.
And furthermore, I have come to a decision.
Sister, I want to talk to you about Lady Browne.
A doctor called Cicely Saunders has been exploring new ways of caring for people who are terminally ill.
She's based at St Joseph's Hospital in Hackney, isn't she? It's a hospice, Sister.
She advocates a different kind of nursing.
It's not like a hospital at all.
The patient's family are as important as the patient.
Do you think we should approach St Joseph's, and see if there's a bed for Lady Browne? I tried, but the beds are full.
At least for now.
It's such a shame! We should aim to give everyone the chance of a good death.
Sister Julienne, would you agree to let me care for Lady Browne until she passes away? I'd like to implement some of the principles of hospice care.
You're a midwife, Nurse Lee.
You were trained to bring life into the world, not to help it to depart.
But surely they're both equally important? I've lost count of the number of babies I've delivered, Sister, and this would be something new for me.
It's something I feel very inspired by.
I can see that.
But if I were to take you away from midwifery - possibly for weeks - the mothers and babies of the district would suffer.
But Lady Browne is suffering.
And Chummy is suffering.
As it happens, Nurse Noakes just telephoned to say that Lady Browne has chosen to stay at home with her until the end comes.
We will support them, and they will support one another.
Now, we have been asked to take on some pupil midwives from the London for a day or two, whilst their clinic is reorganised.
I am putting you in charge of the arrangements.
MUSIC: "Hushabye" by The Mystics ~ Hushabye, hushabye ~ Oh, my darling, don't you cry ~ Guardian angels up above ~ Take care of the one I love ~ Oh-h-h-h-h ~ Hush, hush, hushabye ~ Oh-h-h-h-h ~ Hush, hush, hushabye ~ Hushabye, hushabye ~ Oh, my darling, don't you cry ~ Guardian angels up above ~ Take care of the one I love ~ Oh-h-h-h-h ~ Hush, hush, hushabye ~ Oh-h-h-h-h ~ Hush, hush, hushabye ~ Pillows lying on your bed ~ Oh, my darling, rest your head ~ Sandman will be coming soon ~ Singing you a slumber tune ~ Cynthia, there's a whole cake in this tin.
I haven't seen that the entire time I've been at Nonnatus.
Sister Monica Joan's at Chummy's all the time, looking after Lady Browne.
We've got extra Horlicks to go with it, too.
When I went upstairs, all the pupil midwives were asleep.
Set 'em up, Joe! One commode.
All ship-shape and Bristol fashion.
Right.
I think it will serve well over there.
Perfect! Would you like me to find you a change of clothes? You might feel more on top of things in a pair of slacks.
I think not! I'm a nurse, old bean.
This is my armour.
The Plaza Suite is open for business! You take your time, Lady Browne.
There's no rush.
Once I'm up .
.
I'm up, I suppose.
You'll have no reason to come down.
We've got it all laid on for you up there.
Come on.
Stairway To The Stars time.
The choir are absolutely note perfect on Ave Verum Corpus.
The perfect choice for the competition.
They could sing it standing on their heads.
Might make it a bit more interesting.
This one is just addressed to you, but it looks official.
Is it about the baby? No.
It's from the festival.
The East Ham Singers are doing Ave Verum Corpus.
No two choirs can sing the same piece, and they entered first, so we have to find another song.
Great(!) By Saturday! That's a lovely, steady heartbeat.
And Baby's head's well down.
But I can't see any signs that labour's under way just yet, especially now those twinges have petered out.
I know it sounds silly, but I was kind of in the mood for it! Thank you.
Hello, Mr Heckford! You're back from Gibraltar! Ha-ha! Bless you, Nurse.
This is my cousin, Philip.
Would you like a coffee? Yes, please.
Last time Nurse Lee was here, she was admiring your painting.
Really? Yes.
I was.
And I win.
Again.
This is a much better game than bridge.
What did you say it was called? Strip Jack Naked, your ladyship.
You know, I shouldn't object if you called me by my Christian name.
Artemis? Ghastly, isn't it? Sir Rex used to call me Arthur, sometimes.
I think it was on account of my large feet.
I passed them on to Camilla.
Had you ever noticed? I love Camilla's feet.
Good.
I will not be defeated by this.
The choir have worked too hard.
If I find the right song, they can sing it simply.
I won't need to rehearse them too hard.
Puff, please.
You can always have one of your own.
No, because that would make me a smoker.
~ May the good Lord bless and keep you ~ Ah! Jim Reeves.
Perfect! You and Jim Reeves.
~.
.
When you are far away ~ May you find that ~ This might just be a very appropriate choice.
~.
.
Day to day ~ I feel like the princess in The Princess And The Pea .
.
floating up on layer upon layer of mattresses.
It's probably the morphine.
It's the pillows.
I used to have a manicure once a week in Rajputan.
We had Nivea cream sent over by diplomatic bag.
I wouldn't mind a manicure today.
You don't want to bother with all that fuss and nonsense.
Did I ever read you The Princess And The Pea? I'm not sure you did.
Perhaps I sent it to you at boarding school.
The post in India was abominable.
So much got loston the way.
Mind the wet stairs now, Sister.
Don't want you tripping over on them.
Out of my way.
I am in search of the most particular accoutrements.
Oh, Nurse Franklin, such unseemly quantities of intimate apparel.
Sister Monica Joan? Instead of skulking outside this chamber, I suggest you enter, and offer me your aid.
Is this Nivea? I don't know but I reckon that's for putting on your face.
I need Nivea.
And nail paint.
Is that what you're looking for? You are very slow to see what is before you.
I think you should consult an oculist.
I'm sorry to press-gang you when you must be so busy.
But if we can't swell the numbers of the choir, I don't think the judges will even entertain such a simple piece of music.
I think it's a terrific choice.
There's no reason why it has to be a piece of classical music.
Quite.
But we need more voices.
I want children, adults, the elderly, all involved, and singing side by side.
I like the sound of that.
Hello! Back again, like a bad penny.
Not at all.
Jeanette hoped it would be you.
M blank G, N, I, blank, blank, blank, E, blank, blank, second word, blank B, S, E, blank, S, blank, O, blank.
Is it Magnificent Obsession? Excellent! Full marks.
Philip! That was the last clue.
Now what are we going to do? You could eat some of this toast I just made.
Or maybe not.
I can't.
I simply can't.
It's just too frivolous when there is so much else to do.
But there's almost nothing else to do.
And little time.
I'm sorry, Sister But I can't I can't touch her.
Unless it's a nursing matter, but even then I'm sorry.
But it's true.
My mother and I did not have a tactile union.
I did not regret it when she was alive.
But now I think of Keats and how he cried Touch has a memory! O say, love, say What can I do to kill it And be free? You've never done that before.
Oh, I have When you were very, very tiny.
I've been going at it all night, Nurse.
This baby is never going to come.
Jeanette.
Your contractions are coming every five minutes, steadily and surely.
Baby's coming steadily and surely, too.
I don't want it to come steadily and surely.
I want it now.
Sssh.
Or soon.
Let's set our hopes on "soon".
"Soon" seems very reasonable to me.
The tide is turning.
Time to lay aside your uniform.
Today, you are her child.
I'm still a nurse.
I know what that sound means.
That's it.
Good, now stay calm, Jeanette.
This is a good, strong contraction.
It will help you, and it will help your baby make its way into the world.
I can't face another night of this.
Ssh.
Come on.
I can't.
How long have I got? Sorry, it's impossible to say.
Tell me what to do.
Telephone Nonnatus House, tell them I've had a lady with a very, very long first stage and we need gas and air.
And a new midwife.
They're here.
Oh, look at you two.
Poor little chicks.
Are you the father? He's the cousin.
Out.
Right, case notes, and then get your mac on.
I'm not a betting woman, but I'll wager five bob you just need a bit of blood sugar.
I don't suppose you could force down a Creamline toffee? No enema, I see.
And you wonder why things have stalled.
I told Nurse Lee I didn't want one Don't worry.
You might just find we've packed the wrong kit.
Off you pop.
Get a bit of shuteye.
Will you let me walk you back to the convent? I know my way.
I'd know it blindfolded.
Nurse Lee, are you upset? Um I've delivered so many babies and I've never once not managed.
Never once failed to do what I was trained for.
If it was just tiredness, I'd know tomorrow would be better but Please.
Let me walk you back.
Thank you but there's somewhere I need to go first.
Put this on.
It's Mater's.
I love you.
'The departure of life eclipses everything.
'When a death is good, the room is filled with peace, 'and all the pain that went before it is forgotten.
'Where there was mystery, there is knowledge, 'where there was fear, there is love.
' May I have everybody's attention.
As you know, Timothy has had to go back for his sheet music, which he forgot.
As soon as he arrives, we will be catching the bus to St Dacorum's church.
The fare will be sixpence each way but if anyone is in difficulties, will they please talk to me or Mr Hereward.
At last! I wondered what had kept you.
It was the adoption agency.
There was a phone call.
Thank you, Doctor.
You're welcome.
Patrick.
The adoption agency have a baby girl.
They need us to go straight there.
Well, how much have they told you? Hardly anything! Just that the mother is only 16.
She was meant to be taking the baby home with her, but at the last minute her parents have changed their minds.
That's terrible.
Tim.
That's why they want a speedy settlement.
To spare further trauma for those involved.
Mrs Turner shows great faith in us.
I can't even get them in a straight line! Oi, stop that.
This is a community choir, not a conga line at the Hammersmith Palais! And if you don't keep up, my next weapon will be the heel of my stiletto! Charming(!) Go on! Baby Jones is at the far end of the room, on the right.
There's a little felt sunflower attached to her cot.
Perhaps Master Turner would like to wait in the office with me? Do you want to go in alone? No, Patrick.
This is the closest I'm ever going to get to giving birth.
And I want, and I need, you to be by my side.
What's she like? Close your eyes.
Here's your mummy.
We have a daughter.
~ May the good Lord bless and keep you ~ Whether near or far away ~ May you find that long awaited ~ Golden day today ~ May your troubles all be small ones ~ And your fortunes ten times ten ~ May the good Lord bless and keep you ~ Till we meet again ~ May you walk with sunlight shining ~ And a bluebird in every tree ~ May there be a silver lining ~ Back on every cloud you see ~ Fill your dreams with sweet tomorrows ~ Never mind what might have been ~ May the good Lord bless and keep you ~ Till we meet again ~ May the good Lord bless and keep you ~ Till we meet ~ Till we meet again.
~ Goodbye! Congratulations! Good night.
Shall I give the winner's trophy to Mrs Turner, or would you like to? I don't think she'll even notice.
She's been given the prize of a lifetime today.
The baby? It's just such a magical thought.
These souls that have never met being put together for a lifetime.
That's quite a deep thought for a Saturday evening.
Well, it might surprise you to hear this, but I'm quite a deep girl.
I know.
Why are we so low on chloral hydrate? It's a sedative, not a pre-labour cocktail snack.
It should be administered sparingly! Sisters.
And ladies .
.
Nurse Lee has some news for us.
I've handed my notice in.
Oh, I say! I'm moving away to take up a position as a Staff Nurse at the Marie Curie Hospital.
I want to work with the dying.
And a cancer hospital seems as good a place as any.
Are you absolutely sure, Jenny? Yes.
It's what I feel called to do.
Right, Philip Worth, good luck.
I You look lovely.
Go on.
~ I look at you ~ Thank you.
Lovely.
~.
.
And I say to myself ~ What more could I want ~ Come in.
Thank you.
~.
.
if I had you? ~ 'I was leaving midwifery behind but Nonnatus House 'was where my family lived and I would love it forever.
'My time there had shaped me as it shaped every life it touched.
' ~.
.
My head in a cloud ~ The nightdress.
You kept it? For you.
For better times to come.
~.
.
I look at you and I say to myself ~ What more could I want? ~ 'I would marry Philip Worth, though I did not know 'it then, and we would have two daughters of our own.
'The young can't see what lies ahead 'and perhaps that is their blessing and their sorrow.
' ~.
.
I stand and I stare, my head in a cloud ~ ~.
.
I look at you ~ And I say to my heart ~ What chance would I have while at? ~ 'I never lost touch with the convent or the friends I found there.
'Their story continued, as did my desire to tell the wider world.
'For what is joy if it goes unrecorded? 'And what is love if it is not shared?' - Stay safe.
Goodbye.
- Goodbye.
Well done, Norma.
That's that bit done.
Oh, look at him, Norma! When can Jim see him? When I go down the Pig And Gate and fetch 'im.
He'll not set foot over this threshold until we're done.
In't that right, Nurse? Absolutely! And then we'll be sending that rotten old afterbirth down the allotment with your granddad, won't we? Just the ticket for his runner beans.
'The arrival of new life eclipses everything.
' Won't we? Yeah! 'When all goes well, the room is filled with happiness 'and all the pain that went before is forgotten.
'Where there was mystery, there is knowledge.
'Where there was fear, there is love.
' Just need to have another quick look at you, Norma.
That's bad It's not ideal, Mrs Tunnidge.
But we will manage this.
Norma! Stay with me, Norma.
Mrs Tunnidge, put Baby in his cot and keep him well wrapped up.
Could you pass me the kidney dish with the syringe, please? I'm going to give you an injection to help stop the bleeding, and then I'm going to massage your tummy to see if we can bring on another contraction.
What's happening? Part of the placenta hasn't quite come away, so we need to give it some help.
Could you ring a doctor, and then an ambulance, then we need some hot water bottles, to keep her warm till they arrive? Stay with me, Norma.
There's something coming away.
Good girl.
That's it! Is it over? I hope so.
Thanks, Nurse.
It's all right.
Oh, Nurse, you've got something on your face.
I can't believe what Mater's done.
She's only gone and bally discharged herself.
She told the ward sister she was checking into a private hotel, and any mail should be forwarded on to a place called Pijehurst Lodge.
So it's business as usual, really.
Excuse me, I must change for work.
I've a long night ahead.
Hello, dear.
You've a choice for your pudding tonight.
I tried my hand at an apple charlotte.
Or there's cling peaches and evap, if you want something lighter.
It's up to you.
I wish it was up to me.
Because if it was, I'd say apple charlotte.
Mum's been in the kitchen making it since you had your lunch.
We'll have that, then.
Apple charlotte it is.
You've done wonderfully well since arriving at the parish.
The men's group meet at my place once a week.
Numbers have grown, and we're going to have to meet elsewhere.
Men's group? Whatever happens in a men's group? Well, we discuss things that are of interest to men.
This time, we're talking about pregnancy and birth.
Oh, I-I-I think that might perturb them.
Well, if it does, it shouldn't, surely? Fear often comes from ignorance.
Mr Hereward, I couldn't agree more! I was actually hoping I might get some of you on my side.
Dr Turner's offered to talk us through the nuts and bolts, but if one or two of the midwives came along too, that would be even better.
And why is that? Well, I thought that they could put over the female point of view.
So much goes on behind closed doors when a baby's born.
I'll tell you what goes on behind closed doors, Mr Hereward.
A lot of hard work, that's what! No point in men discussing it.
It's a time for women to help women, and that is that.
I think most men would be a much better support to their wives if they at least had some inkling of what was going on.
I'd be happy to come along, Mr Hereward.
Thank you, Nurse Franklin.
Nurse Miller? Ooh, I'd absolutely love to, but I'm on call.
What about you, Patsy? Well, I've no objection.
As long as I'm back in time for Two-Way Family Favourites.
Talks at the parish men's group are the thin end of the wedge.
If you hear a single remark about men attending births, you are to report straight to me.
Yes, Sister.
The thing is, Nurse Mount, there's only so many people can fit in a delivery room.
And there is something special about a woman being supported by her mother.
The mother-daughter bond is a very precious thing.
I deem compline a place of succour for a soul in disarray.
Though I must not press you to join us, should you not desire it.
I rather suspect I do desire it.
I'm afraid I can't even think of what to think just now.
A conundrum that has ailed me much.
But in chapel, we need not choose our thoughts.
The words are aligned, like a rope for us to cling to.
How long ago did your mother die? I think that is not of any consequence.
Dates, after all, are only scratchings on a stone.
~ For thy loving kindness is comfortable ~ Turn thee unto me according to the multitude of thy mercies ~ And hide not thy face from thy servant, for I am in trouble ~ Haste thee, and hear me ~ Thou hast known my reproof, my shame, and my dishonour.
~ Morning, love.
Cup of tea, and into bed with this.
Once you've had some kip, you're going to visit your mother.
Has she been in touch? No.
But I tracked her down.
It was Pinewood Villa, not Pinehurst Lodge.
It's a private nursing home, and her fees are being paid by a charity called the League For Distressed Gentlewomen.
Charity? She doesn't need charity, Peter.
What sort of place is it? I draw your attention to the cup of tea, hot water bottle and kip routine.
Then you can go and find out.
Begging your pardon, Sister, but it's Sister Monica.
I will not be brought before the superior for a reprimand.
I am in the novitian, I am not in formation.
Oh, no She's really bad, Sister.
I found her halfway up the Commercial Road.
Sister.
Come inside, and warm yourself.
I don't know you.
Nor do I know what you are about in Sister Ada's office.
Oh, my dear.
This is not Sister Ada's office.
Sister Ada is no longer with us.
Now, then Don't you "now, then" me.
Thou art a peasant and a man, and as such no quarter should be given to you within these walls.
Should I go? No.
No Another man came once.
I deemed him a doctor, though he did not say.
He asked me questions that I refused to answer, lest I betray myself.
My mother calls me stupid.
Stupid .
.
and too tall.
Fred.
You'll find the keys to the safe in the top left-hand drawer of the chest.
You'll find a package in there, marked "Property of Miss Antonia Keville".
I know that name.
Of course you do.
I have seen these before.
They were your mother's.
And when she died - a long, long time ago - she left them for you as a gift.
These were her pearls.
They are so cold.
I know it's your favourite robe.
The repair wasn't tricky.
Did you use silk thread? No, rayon.
I thought it would be more durable.
Now, don't fall off the bed with excitement, but I brought you a smidgeon of savoury mince.
It's only what we had last night, but as I said to Peter, "There's no harm in popping some into a Tupperware!" What's Tupperware? It keeps food fresh.
I wasn't sure what the cuisine would be like.
It can be quite variable Well, it isn't variable here.
There's a baronet's widow across the landing.
It's in everyone's interests to keep up standards.
I'm still sure you'd be better looked after in a hospital - where there's pain relief.
I brought you a photograph of Freddie.
And one of Peter and I, on our wedding day.
I thought they might look nice on your bedside table.
I can't put that on display.
Why not? You're not in white.
And he's wearing a lounge suit.
One last thing.
Peter sent you satsumas.
But if they don't meet with your approval, then you can pass them on to the baronet's widow.
Sister Julienne says that if you eat a good lunch, she's happy for us to take care of you, and won't send for Doctor.
He could serve no purpose now.
I have been reminded that my mother is no more.
Her jewellery is very beautiful.
Our connection was never affectionate .
.
and my call to the religious life corrupted it completely.
Ladies and gentlemen.
Thank you.
Mrs Minter, we're about to begin.
I think, perhaps, if you could put your cigarette out until we break for tea.
As you will have gathered, we're going to be taking a close look at our favourite piece of Mozart tonight.
I know it's far and away the strongest thing in our repertoire, and for that very reason, I've decided it will be our entry at the Truscott Choral Festival at St Dacorum's Church.
But that's only a couple of weeks off! I know because my husband's a painter and decorator.
He's been brought in to emulsion the chancel.
From the very beginning, please, Timothy.
Oh.
Can we help you? Sorry, but this is the parish men's group.
We're having the health education session here.
No, you are not! But it's all been planned.
I've everybody's name written down on a list.
There's clearly been an error.
The choir has an exclusive weekly booking, and we aren't due to finish until nine.
Again, please, Timothy.
~ AveAve ~ That would make things go with a swing.
The nuns will be in compline.
Oh, do hurry up.
We're falling behind schedule! Ring the doorbell! Nobody bites! I bite if people don't wipe their feet.
I'm going to read out all the names on the list the reverend gave me, and I want you all to call out "present" so I can tick you off.
Colin Warneck? Present.
Walter Mills? Present.
Vernon Parker.
Present.
James Peachely? James Peachely, and Tony Muirhead? I think we may have lost them to the Hand And Shears! I'm sorry.
I don't believe you're on my list.
Should I be on a list? It's a requirement.
Worth.
Philip Worth.
Thank you, that all seems to be in order.
Right, now, as you can see, I have gone right back to square one.
This circle represents the ova, or the female egg, and this little chap here is the male gamete, or the sperm.
Sorry, Dr T, I think we've got a question.
Where do I go to get the milk of magnesia? What's the matter? Aren't you well? My cousin telephoned earlier.
She's expecting, and she's in agony with heartburn.
The midwife said she could be given an antacid, so I came to fetch it.
I just walked in with everybody else.
Follow me.
Ah, it's a good job you've come back here, actually - it's going to be a busy night.
I've just been called to Mrs Boyle on Flitch Street.
Oh, hello.
Evening.
I just had to rescue this poor chap from a terrifying ordeal.
Trial by the parish men's group.
And Patsy.
Well, looks like he's lived to tell the tale.
There's no harm done.
One bottle of milk of magnesia.
Nurse Lee will see you out.
Heartburn can be a rotten business.
Mind you, I've heard it means the baby's going to have a lot of hair.
I've heard that said where we come from.
Jeanette reckons it's an old wives' tale.
Whereabouts in Scotland are you from? Edinburgh.
I've just joined a barrister's chambers at Lincoln's Inn.
Thank you.
Follow me.
There's a nip in the air today.
Are you sure you don't want me to go to the cleaner's for your overcoat? I'm sure that No.
er, I'll take a scarf.
It's only a mild frost.
Would you get the post? I'm just trying to show you that I care.
"Dr and Mrs P Turner.
" Tim, go and wait in the car.
"After due consideration, we are pleased to inform you that "you have been accepted as adoptive parents" "We have every confidence that "in due course you will be able to offer an otherwise unwanted child "a very happy home.
" They seem very confident of that.
What? The notion that we have a happy home.
At the moment, I'm not sure that we do.
This really is a beautiful room, Mrs Heckford.
Oh, thank you.
I like to put my stamp on a place.
My husband and I have had to move round a lot, because of his work.
And what does your husband do? He's a marine engineer.
He's just been posted to Gibraltar for three weeks.
Does that mean you'll be alone when the baby comes? Well, I've got my cousin in residence.
I daresay we can train him to run errands and boil water.
Any port in a storm.
There won't be a storm.
You have a lovely home, and it feels to me as though Baby's in the perfect position.
Nicely lined up for delivery.
Is the head engaged? It is.
Have you been reading books? I've always been a reader.
And a painter, too, by the looks of it.
Oh.
That's my wee cousin's.
He's currently inspired by the music of Mussorgsky.
I love Mussorgsky! I went to a concert of his music at the Festival Hall last year.
I just wish he'd been inspired by something a little more comprehensible.
I like it.
Excellent.
I will pass on the compliment.
Lady Browne, if you can try and drink this - please, try I can't rest.
What's happening? I beg your pardon.
Are you a relative? My wife's her daughter.
I'm I'm visiting on her behalf.
Is the doctor on his way? He isn't expected until this evening.
We aren't equipped to cope with cases like this.
Lady Browne needs to be in hospital.
Help me! Help.
Hospital's the one place where she doesn't want to be.
Help me! Help.
Help me.
I'm sorry, your ladyship.
Where are we going? Home.
What-oh, Mater! Lady Browne? Lady Browne.
She's been sick in the wastepaper bin.
Well, better out than in.
I'll take it and give it a swill with some Dettol.
I want her visited three times a day until a bed at the London comes free.
If she can't get up the stairs, she will have to be nursed on the sofa in the meantime.
Yes, Doctor.
I will prescribe morphine in liquid form, for her to take when necessary.
I do know when I'm being discussed.
Mater.
Doctor's only trying to help.
She's right, Nurse.
Lady Browne, is there anything you'd like to ask me? Have a sip of water, Lady Browne.
You don't have to swallow, just wet your lips.
How long have I got? Weeks.
Many? No.
Days? It's impossible to say.
I thought what was impossible to say was the name of the disease.
People say "inflammation of the liver".
Some people just call it "the big C".
Never its name.
No.
Why? Because it is the thing that we fear the most.
Fear is the sentiment I don't hold with.
Ask her.
So.
Cancer.
The beast is named.
It's unlikely we'll ever tame it.
We can get it cornered for a while.
Chummy? Will you help me to organise some sheets? Roger, over and out.
I can remember you sewing a baby's nightdress in that chair.
Yes.
It wasn't to be.
What did you do with it? I gave it to Sister Julienne.
Someone else's baby will have it now.
I-I should have told you about my breakdown.
We started out in silence.
Not able to speak.
And after I dared to write to you, I thought, "Have I said too much? "Or not enough?" If I didn't speak of other things, that was my weakness, and my fault and I can only beg you to forgive me.
I won't forgive you, Patrick.
Because you did nothing wrong.
I didn't speak when I should've done.
I didn't let you when I should've done.
But we're speaking now.
Let that be the thing that matters.
Sister Monica Joan, would you like me to find your knitting bag? Or I could help you wind some wool, perhaps.
I find myself entirely disinclined to knit.
There are enough tangles already in my mind.
That's not true.
They are warm now.
And I fancy I detect my mother's scent upon them.
Sweet violet .
.
mingled with Wright's Coal Tar - the latter from my hand.
Oh, I wish we had made our peace sooner.
Your husband brought him down.
He's in the kitchen making a cup of tea.
My husband does have a name, Mater.
We're quite content with formal terms.
We have an arrangement.
And furthermore, I have come to a decision.
Sister, I want to talk to you about Lady Browne.
A doctor called Cicely Saunders has been exploring new ways of caring for people who are terminally ill.
She's based at St Joseph's Hospital in Hackney, isn't she? It's a hospice, Sister.
She advocates a different kind of nursing.
It's not like a hospital at all.
The patient's family are as important as the patient.
Do you think we should approach St Joseph's, and see if there's a bed for Lady Browne? I tried, but the beds are full.
At least for now.
It's such a shame! We should aim to give everyone the chance of a good death.
Sister Julienne, would you agree to let me care for Lady Browne until she passes away? I'd like to implement some of the principles of hospice care.
You're a midwife, Nurse Lee.
You were trained to bring life into the world, not to help it to depart.
But surely they're both equally important? I've lost count of the number of babies I've delivered, Sister, and this would be something new for me.
It's something I feel very inspired by.
I can see that.
But if I were to take you away from midwifery - possibly for weeks - the mothers and babies of the district would suffer.
But Lady Browne is suffering.
And Chummy is suffering.
As it happens, Nurse Noakes just telephoned to say that Lady Browne has chosen to stay at home with her until the end comes.
We will support them, and they will support one another.
Now, we have been asked to take on some pupil midwives from the London for a day or two, whilst their clinic is reorganised.
I am putting you in charge of the arrangements.
MUSIC: "Hushabye" by The Mystics ~ Hushabye, hushabye ~ Oh, my darling, don't you cry ~ Guardian angels up above ~ Take care of the one I love ~ Oh-h-h-h-h ~ Hush, hush, hushabye ~ Oh-h-h-h-h ~ Hush, hush, hushabye ~ Hushabye, hushabye ~ Oh, my darling, don't you cry ~ Guardian angels up above ~ Take care of the one I love ~ Oh-h-h-h-h ~ Hush, hush, hushabye ~ Oh-h-h-h-h ~ Hush, hush, hushabye ~ Pillows lying on your bed ~ Oh, my darling, rest your head ~ Sandman will be coming soon ~ Singing you a slumber tune ~ Cynthia, there's a whole cake in this tin.
I haven't seen that the entire time I've been at Nonnatus.
Sister Monica Joan's at Chummy's all the time, looking after Lady Browne.
We've got extra Horlicks to go with it, too.
When I went upstairs, all the pupil midwives were asleep.
Set 'em up, Joe! One commode.
All ship-shape and Bristol fashion.
Right.
I think it will serve well over there.
Perfect! Would you like me to find you a change of clothes? You might feel more on top of things in a pair of slacks.
I think not! I'm a nurse, old bean.
This is my armour.
The Plaza Suite is open for business! You take your time, Lady Browne.
There's no rush.
Once I'm up .
.
I'm up, I suppose.
You'll have no reason to come down.
We've got it all laid on for you up there.
Come on.
Stairway To The Stars time.
The choir are absolutely note perfect on Ave Verum Corpus.
The perfect choice for the competition.
They could sing it standing on their heads.
Might make it a bit more interesting.
This one is just addressed to you, but it looks official.
Is it about the baby? No.
It's from the festival.
The East Ham Singers are doing Ave Verum Corpus.
No two choirs can sing the same piece, and they entered first, so we have to find another song.
Great(!) By Saturday! That's a lovely, steady heartbeat.
And Baby's head's well down.
But I can't see any signs that labour's under way just yet, especially now those twinges have petered out.
I know it sounds silly, but I was kind of in the mood for it! Thank you.
Hello, Mr Heckford! You're back from Gibraltar! Ha-ha! Bless you, Nurse.
This is my cousin, Philip.
Would you like a coffee? Yes, please.
Last time Nurse Lee was here, she was admiring your painting.
Really? Yes.
I was.
And I win.
Again.
This is a much better game than bridge.
What did you say it was called? Strip Jack Naked, your ladyship.
You know, I shouldn't object if you called me by my Christian name.
Artemis? Ghastly, isn't it? Sir Rex used to call me Arthur, sometimes.
I think it was on account of my large feet.
I passed them on to Camilla.
Had you ever noticed? I love Camilla's feet.
Good.
I will not be defeated by this.
The choir have worked too hard.
If I find the right song, they can sing it simply.
I won't need to rehearse them too hard.
Puff, please.
You can always have one of your own.
No, because that would make me a smoker.
~ May the good Lord bless and keep you ~ Ah! Jim Reeves.
Perfect! You and Jim Reeves.
~.
.
When you are far away ~ May you find that ~ This might just be a very appropriate choice.
~.
.
Day to day ~ I feel like the princess in The Princess And The Pea .
.
floating up on layer upon layer of mattresses.
It's probably the morphine.
It's the pillows.
I used to have a manicure once a week in Rajputan.
We had Nivea cream sent over by diplomatic bag.
I wouldn't mind a manicure today.
You don't want to bother with all that fuss and nonsense.
Did I ever read you The Princess And The Pea? I'm not sure you did.
Perhaps I sent it to you at boarding school.
The post in India was abominable.
So much got loston the way.
Mind the wet stairs now, Sister.
Don't want you tripping over on them.
Out of my way.
I am in search of the most particular accoutrements.
Oh, Nurse Franklin, such unseemly quantities of intimate apparel.
Sister Monica Joan? Instead of skulking outside this chamber, I suggest you enter, and offer me your aid.
Is this Nivea? I don't know but I reckon that's for putting on your face.
I need Nivea.
And nail paint.
Is that what you're looking for? You are very slow to see what is before you.
I think you should consult an oculist.
I'm sorry to press-gang you when you must be so busy.
But if we can't swell the numbers of the choir, I don't think the judges will even entertain such a simple piece of music.
I think it's a terrific choice.
There's no reason why it has to be a piece of classical music.
Quite.
But we need more voices.
I want children, adults, the elderly, all involved, and singing side by side.
I like the sound of that.
Hello! Back again, like a bad penny.
Not at all.
Jeanette hoped it would be you.
M blank G, N, I, blank, blank, blank, E, blank, blank, second word, blank B, S, E, blank, S, blank, O, blank.
Is it Magnificent Obsession? Excellent! Full marks.
Philip! That was the last clue.
Now what are we going to do? You could eat some of this toast I just made.
Or maybe not.
I can't.
I simply can't.
It's just too frivolous when there is so much else to do.
But there's almost nothing else to do.
And little time.
I'm sorry, Sister But I can't I can't touch her.
Unless it's a nursing matter, but even then I'm sorry.
But it's true.
My mother and I did not have a tactile union.
I did not regret it when she was alive.
But now I think of Keats and how he cried Touch has a memory! O say, love, say What can I do to kill it And be free? You've never done that before.
Oh, I have When you were very, very tiny.
I've been going at it all night, Nurse.
This baby is never going to come.
Jeanette.
Your contractions are coming every five minutes, steadily and surely.
Baby's coming steadily and surely, too.
I don't want it to come steadily and surely.
I want it now.
Sssh.
Or soon.
Let's set our hopes on "soon".
"Soon" seems very reasonable to me.
The tide is turning.
Time to lay aside your uniform.
Today, you are her child.
I'm still a nurse.
I know what that sound means.
That's it.
Good, now stay calm, Jeanette.
This is a good, strong contraction.
It will help you, and it will help your baby make its way into the world.
I can't face another night of this.
Ssh.
Come on.
I can't.
How long have I got? Sorry, it's impossible to say.
Tell me what to do.
Telephone Nonnatus House, tell them I've had a lady with a very, very long first stage and we need gas and air.
And a new midwife.
They're here.
Oh, look at you two.
Poor little chicks.
Are you the father? He's the cousin.
Out.
Right, case notes, and then get your mac on.
I'm not a betting woman, but I'll wager five bob you just need a bit of blood sugar.
I don't suppose you could force down a Creamline toffee? No enema, I see.
And you wonder why things have stalled.
I told Nurse Lee I didn't want one Don't worry.
You might just find we've packed the wrong kit.
Off you pop.
Get a bit of shuteye.
Will you let me walk you back to the convent? I know my way.
I'd know it blindfolded.
Nurse Lee, are you upset? Um I've delivered so many babies and I've never once not managed.
Never once failed to do what I was trained for.
If it was just tiredness, I'd know tomorrow would be better but Please.
Let me walk you back.
Thank you but there's somewhere I need to go first.
Put this on.
It's Mater's.
I love you.
'The departure of life eclipses everything.
'When a death is good, the room is filled with peace, 'and all the pain that went before it is forgotten.
'Where there was mystery, there is knowledge, 'where there was fear, there is love.
' May I have everybody's attention.
As you know, Timothy has had to go back for his sheet music, which he forgot.
As soon as he arrives, we will be catching the bus to St Dacorum's church.
The fare will be sixpence each way but if anyone is in difficulties, will they please talk to me or Mr Hereward.
At last! I wondered what had kept you.
It was the adoption agency.
There was a phone call.
Thank you, Doctor.
You're welcome.
Patrick.
The adoption agency have a baby girl.
They need us to go straight there.
Well, how much have they told you? Hardly anything! Just that the mother is only 16.
She was meant to be taking the baby home with her, but at the last minute her parents have changed their minds.
That's terrible.
Tim.
That's why they want a speedy settlement.
To spare further trauma for those involved.
Mrs Turner shows great faith in us.
I can't even get them in a straight line! Oi, stop that.
This is a community choir, not a conga line at the Hammersmith Palais! And if you don't keep up, my next weapon will be the heel of my stiletto! Charming(!) Go on! Baby Jones is at the far end of the room, on the right.
There's a little felt sunflower attached to her cot.
Perhaps Master Turner would like to wait in the office with me? Do you want to go in alone? No, Patrick.
This is the closest I'm ever going to get to giving birth.
And I want, and I need, you to be by my side.
What's she like? Close your eyes.
Here's your mummy.
We have a daughter.
~ May the good Lord bless and keep you ~ Whether near or far away ~ May you find that long awaited ~ Golden day today ~ May your troubles all be small ones ~ And your fortunes ten times ten ~ May the good Lord bless and keep you ~ Till we meet again ~ May you walk with sunlight shining ~ And a bluebird in every tree ~ May there be a silver lining ~ Back on every cloud you see ~ Fill your dreams with sweet tomorrows ~ Never mind what might have been ~ May the good Lord bless and keep you ~ Till we meet again ~ May the good Lord bless and keep you ~ Till we meet ~ Till we meet again.
~ Goodbye! Congratulations! Good night.
Shall I give the winner's trophy to Mrs Turner, or would you like to? I don't think she'll even notice.
She's been given the prize of a lifetime today.
The baby? It's just such a magical thought.
These souls that have never met being put together for a lifetime.
That's quite a deep thought for a Saturday evening.
Well, it might surprise you to hear this, but I'm quite a deep girl.
I know.
Why are we so low on chloral hydrate? It's a sedative, not a pre-labour cocktail snack.
It should be administered sparingly! Sisters.
And ladies .
.
Nurse Lee has some news for us.
I've handed my notice in.
Oh, I say! I'm moving away to take up a position as a Staff Nurse at the Marie Curie Hospital.
I want to work with the dying.
And a cancer hospital seems as good a place as any.
Are you absolutely sure, Jenny? Yes.
It's what I feel called to do.
Right, Philip Worth, good luck.
I You look lovely.
Go on.
~ I look at you ~ Thank you.
Lovely.
~.
.
And I say to myself ~ What more could I want ~ Come in.
Thank you.
~.
.
if I had you? ~ 'I was leaving midwifery behind but Nonnatus House 'was where my family lived and I would love it forever.
'My time there had shaped me as it shaped every life it touched.
' ~.
.
My head in a cloud ~ The nightdress.
You kept it? For you.
For better times to come.
~.
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I look at you and I say to myself ~ What more could I want? ~ 'I would marry Philip Worth, though I did not know 'it then, and we would have two daughters of our own.
'The young can't see what lies ahead 'and perhaps that is their blessing and their sorrow.
' ~.
.
I stand and I stare, my head in a cloud ~ ~.
.
I look at you ~ And I say to my heart ~ What chance would I have while at? ~ 'I never lost touch with the convent or the friends I found there.
'Their story continued, as did my desire to tell the wider world.
'For what is joy if it goes unrecorded? 'And what is love if it is not shared?' - Stay safe.
Goodbye.
- Goodbye.