Original subtitles

(OPENING THEME MUSIC)

(BABY GURGLING)

(MATURE JENNIFER) The ties that bind us

keep us safe from harm.

They make us straight and strong.

They help us to grow

the way that those who love us most think right.

And every Christmas

finds us swathed and bound,

drawn back to the place we came from...

both exposed and sheltered,

vulnerable and bold.

(MIMICS HOOFBEATS)

(MIMICS HOOFBEATS)

The journey was long,

the road was steep.

Exhaustion made poor Mary weep!

Kind Joseph also felt forlorn.

For soon, the baby would be born.

Baa.

(BOY 2) Baa.

- (BOY 3) Baa. - Shh.

- (AUDIENCE LAUGHING) - (CHILDREN) Baa.

(NURSE CRANE) That's enough!

Harry, shush! And you Terence.

- Baa. - (NURSE CRANE) Shh.

(AUDIENCE LAUGHING)

(KNOCKING)

They knocked on doors,

begged for a bed.

But every hotelier shook his head.

The inn is full, I have no space!

Meanwhile, time moved on apace!

(TRIANGLE CHIME CLINKING)

I shall be transporting the entire ensemble

over to Nonnatus House well before the big day.

(CHUCKLES) I haven't fried an onion

for over five weeks

in case the odour seeps into the fabric.

All I can smell is fresh, crisp, virgin silk dupion,

with just a hint of blood, sweat and tears.

I couldn't be happier with it, Mrs Buckle. I promise you!

It should be finished by now, Lucille!

You're getting married on Boxing Day!

Let me just measure your waist once more,

before we get onto the veil.

This is my last chance to nip that bodice in.

- (FRED) Violet! - (DOOR OPENS)

- (DOOR CHIMES CLINK) - (GROANS)

These trousers have split! (SIGHS)

- (FRED) Can you mend them for me? - Oh!

(FRED) I'm due at the Institute after the Nativity,

to give presents out to the kiddies!

Your lack of discipline

regarding baked goods is not gonna alter

my list of priorities, Fred Buckle!

Oh, you've lost another half an inch.

Shame we can't say the same for Santa Claus.

- (CHUCKLES) - (DOOR OPENS, CLOSES)

Out in the pastures, the sky was dark.

When one of the shepherds cried out...

(SCOFFS)

"Hark!"

(AUDIENCE LAUGHING)

"Is that a heavenly voice I hear?"

And lo!

Three angels had drawn near.

(GENTLE MUSIC)

I like it!

It'll be a good suit for preaching in.

And even better for getting married in.

- (CHUCKLES) - (DOOR OPENS)

And here comes my best man!

- (DOOR CLOSES) - (PANTING)

Don't worry, he's not wearing that.

(PANTING) I've got a split in me trousers!

(FRED) I need someone that can sew!

Bend over.

(AUDIENCE OOHS)

(MUMBLES)

(FESTIVE HOLIDAY MUSIC)

(GRUNTS)

Excuse me.

- (DOOR OPENS, CHIMES) - (FRED) Quick, Cyril!

- (DOOR CLOSES) - They'll be finished any minute.

The stable was warm, and sweet with hay.

(MISS HIGGINS) And in the manger, an infant lay.

A Prince, sent down from heaven above.

Swathed in linen, and wrapped in love!

(CHILDREN CHEER)

- (AUDIENCE APPLAUDS) - (LAUGHING)

(AUDIENCE APPLAUDS, LAUGHS)

(UPLIFTING MUSIC)

Bravo!

(APPLAUSE CONTINUES)

- (BELL CLANGING) - (LAUGHING)

(FRED) Ho, ho, ho. Merry Christmas!

A special early delivery from the North Pole,

- ho, ho, ho, ho, ho. - (BELL CLANGING)

(LIGHT MUSIC)

(SISTER JULIENNE) It appears that yesterday's entertainment

raised twenty-nine pounds seven shillings and fourpence

for the Hardship Fund.

Well, it was certainly worth selling off the advertising space.

I thought it was like watching a Nativity play on ITV.

(ALL LAUGHING)

And that was Mrs Turner on the telephone.

We've just been assigned 20 extra patients

- from St Cuthbert's! - Oh, goodness!

But our lists are completely full!

Can't they be transferred to us in the New Year?

Well, apparently,

more than half of them are due between next week and Christmas.

What do you suppose was going on in March?

That's for the expectant mothers to know

and for... us to wonder at.

- (CLEARS THROAT) - But it's already chaos

in the Clinic. And The Institute will book out the side rooms!

Can we call the pupil midwives in,

just as extra pairs of hands?

Remember, they're all on leave.

But I don't mind getting back on my bike!

No. You need time with your studies and time with your little girl.

It will help her settle in with her foster parents.

Well, I shall depart to commune with my Rolodex.

If I believed in God, I'd be praying for a miracle.

(FRANCES CHUCKLES)

(DOORBELL RINGING)

(BRIGHT MUSIC)

Parcel to sign for.

Thank you.

(BRIGHT MUSIC CONTINUES)

(LUCILLE) The whole family wanted me to have it,

to wear on our wedding day.

It belonged to my grandmother.

That makes it precious even if it isn't made of gold.

- (LUCILLE CHUCKLES) - Does it open?

Yes. Look inside.

- Ooh! - (BOTH CHUCKLING)

Is that your parents?

On their wedding day. (INHALES)

It seems a shame they had to cut the photograph in half

- to get them in the locket... - (BOTH CHUCKLE)

but it's still a lovely sentiment.

It is a beautiful sentiment.

They're blessing on us both.

- (INDISTINCT CHATTER) - (TRIXIE) Ladies from St Cuthbert's

who haven't been here before, please give your urine to me

and then turn right and hand your card to the lady at the desk!

Am I supposed to bring a sample?

If you're here for ante-natal, yes.

Or if you've come

for the Cooking with Condensed Milk talk in the cafe,

then you're excused.

- (SPECIMEN BOTTLES CLINKING) - Here you are, sweetie.

(INDISTINCT CHATTER)

(MISS HIGGINS) Ladies, if you haven't already,

please enjoy one of our homemade mince pies.

I actually think your blood pressure's gone down a wee bit

while you've been lying on the couch, Mrs Howells.

(MRS HOWELLS) It wouldn't surprise me.

(DEEPLY SIGHS) This is the first time

I've had me feet up since Bonfire Night.

I've got four boys under ten,

there's that many concerts and Nativities

I can't keep track of me tea towels.

There's always one on somebody's head.

You need bed rest, Mrs Howells.

In our house? Ha!

I'd get more bed rest in the monkey pen at London Zoo.

Or in the maternity home?

Maternity home?

Mm-hmm. If you behave yourself, we'll let you out for Christmas.

(PENSIVE MUSIC)

(LOUDLY WHISPERS) Patrick.

(SISTER JULIENNE) Mrs Anita Page?

(SHELAGH) When we anticipate a glut of overbookings

right before Christmas,

it may not be entirely wise

to block out a much needed bed in the maternity home

for someone to just...

have a lie down in.

Evelyn Howells is having her fifth baby.

If she's exhausted now,

and her blood pressure's playing tricks,

we might actually be heading off trouble at the pass.

(SIGHS)

I'm sorry it's so long since I've been, Sister.

Ah, you're here today, and that's all that matters.

And we have some details from your first and only visit,

including your weight.

I suspect that you haven't gained a great deal.

Nah, that's good, though, isn't it?

They say it's an old wives tale that you need to eat for two.

I shall fetch some forms,

and we'll get you up to date with your blood and urine tests.

Uh, I had those last time.

We repeat them regularly.

It's all a part of making sure that all is as it should be.

(CURTAIN RATTLES)

(PENSIVE MUSIC)

Could you ask Dr Turner to come to the cubicle?

Tell him that Mrs Page is underweight and very pale.

I'm concerned about anaemia.

Right.

(SUSPENSEFUL MUSIC)

(DOOR OPENS)

(DOOR CLOSES)

(RETCHES)

(BAND PLAYS "GLORIA IN EXCELSIS DEO" IN THE DISTANCE)

(BLOWS AIR)

(DISTANT BACKGROUND CHATTER)

(GASPS)

(ANGELA) Have they disappeared up the chimney yet?

Can we come and look?

Those letters aren't going to get magicked to the North Pole

if you don't go to sleep!

The longer you stay awake,

the longer they'll sit in the fireplace.

(CHILDREN GROAN)

(CHUCKLES) Oh, no.

(SHELAGH GASPS)

- (SIGHS) - (CHAIR CREAKS)

It makes it all worthwhile, doesn't it?

Even May seems so settled and so happy now.

It's months since we heard from her mother in Hong Kong.

(DR TURNER) Well, maybe that's why she's so settled and so happy.

She doesn't understand the difference between fostering and adoption,

but we do.

I can hardly bear to picture what May went through as a baby...

and as a tiny child.

There are some things you might never be able to picture.

Because you weren't there and...

May was too young to remember them.

I suppose that's it, isn't it? I wasn't there.

I wasn't watching over her, when she needed me so much.

Shelagh. You are a superb mother.

You know whose socks are whose.

You can dry tears. You can mop up sick.

You make nightmares disappear.

(SIGHS)

You can actually do homework in the children's handwriting.

I only did that once, in an emergency.

(BOTH CHUCKLE)

But what you can't do

is travel back through time.

(SOFT MUSIC)

(DOOR OPENS)

That was Mrs Buckle on the telephone,

requesting a bridal gown fitting for Nurse Anderson at 1pm.

Is it the sleeves again?

It seems to be what Mrs Buckle describes as...

"the embellishments".

I think she might need gas and air.

That's all the extra home delivery packs

finished and ready to go!

(SIGHS) I feel like putting a note

in each of them saying, "No castor oil, no curry,

and cross your legs!"

(ALL CHUCKLE)

- (PERCUSSIVE HOLIDAY MUSIC) - (WHOOPING)

(CHILDREN GIGGLING)

- (FOOTSTEPS RUNNING) - (CHILDREN GIGGLING)

(HOLIDAY MUSIC CONTINUES)

It would appear

that this avalanche of babies is going to bide its time!

It will probably coincide with Mother Mildred's Christmas visit.

I don't reckon anything's gonna happen until the full moon.

Everybody knows mothers go into labour then.

What?

I have seen many a maternity ward overspilling

as a consequence of the lunar cycle.

It is interplay betwixt the tides and the water in a woman's womb.

I rather like some of the old superstitions. Like, um...

putting a knife under the mattress to cut labour pains.

Or believing that a baby born breech will grow up to be a healer.

- Oh, I was born breech. - (GROUP EXCLAIM)

To this day, it's the only breech birth

I've ever been involved with.

Apart from the two in training,

where I stood at the end of the bed and watched.

- (CHUCKLES) - (PHONE RINGS)

Ah, ladies, I do believe we may have lift off!

(PHONE RINGS)

- (HORN BLOWS) - (INDISTINCT CHATTER)

- (INDISTINCT CHATTER CONTINUES) - (BICYCLE CLINKS)

(BIRDS CAWING)

(ESME GROANING)

Perfect, Esme. Perfect.

Slow, controlled breaths,

- not too much noise. - (ESME GROANS)

(INHALES)

Oh, at least I've got a brand spanking new sink

to stare at while I'm having pains.

- Stainless steel, if you please. - (BOTH CHUCKLE)

Oh, when I was having morning sickness,

it was still one of those old stone jobs.

Great big crack in it.

I had to be careful where I hurled.

(TRIXIE CHUCKLES)

- New ceilings, too! - (GROANS)

Aye, the landlord seems to have money to burn these days.

Oh... I'm sorry.

I think I need the pot. (SIGHS)

(ESME) I gave myself a dose of castor oil.

(ESME GROANS)

Shame Mr Rockefeller doesn't run to individual toilets.

(CHUCKLES)

(PHONE RINGING)

- (INDISTINCT TELEVISION CHATTER) - (PHONE RINGING CONTINUES)

Dr Turner's residence.

(SHELAGH) I see...

Oh, I'm sorry, Tim.

Your first night back from university.

Dad...

can I come with you?

(SISTER JULIENNE) We are so grateful

to you and to your church, Mrs Wallace.

You've put a great deal of effort

into making this a very special day for the couple.

Pastor Robinson is like a son to all of us!

At times, I've felt a little like the...

the mother of the bride.

It's a shame you don't get to wear a hat.

(CHUCKLES) I spoke to, uh...

the Rector this morning and finalised the Order of Service.

Nurse Franklin is in charge of the flowers.

And The Shining Tabernacle choir will of course be singing.

Mr Randall, from our church, will be giving away the bride,

and the bridal car has been provided by Pastor Robinson's employer.

Meanwhile, the cake,

which I'm pleased to report, is already made,

marzipanned, iced,

and ready for its moment in the spotlight.

She's even put a little bride and groom on the top of it.

(CHUCKLING)

But we will be following Jamaican custom, Sister Hilda!

The cakes are always made by ladies of the church

and carried into the reception in procession

with all the ladies wearing white!

I didn't know you were planning to do that.

It's a lovely tradition. But, uh,

I didn't expect it. (CHUCKLES)

Well, we didn't know if we could arrange it in time.

But praise God, our prayers have been answered!

Well, far be it from me to...

rail against the will of the Almighty!

Um... (CLICKS TONGUE, INHALES DEEPLY)

Let's turn our attention to the buffet luncheon, shall we?

- (LEAVES RUSTLING) - (DOGS BARKING IN THE DISTANCE)

So, the patient complains

of feeling faint and having neck pain.

What's the first thing you'd try to rule out?

Fractured cervical vertebrae? Or possibly some sort of stroke?

- (DOOR OPENS) - (LOUD RADIO MUSIC PLAYING)

It's Dr Turner.

You telephoned.

It wasn't me.

It was my husband.

- Charlie? - (CHARLIE) Is he here, darling?

- (ANITA) Mm-hmm. - (RADIO MUSIC STOPS PLAYING)

(TENSE MUSIC)

- (MAN 1) Who is he? - (MAN 2) Someone's coming.

(LANCE GROANING)

Don't touch me! Don't you flaming well touch me!

I am trying to stop the bleeding!

You won't stop it with that stupid flannel!

Is this the severe neck pain?

Somebody knifed him.

And are you feeling faint?

No. But I am!

There's bloody blood everywhere.

Oh, you're treading it into the carpet now.

Sit here.

(STIRRING MUSIC)

(NED) Rum and coke.

Everybody's on it nowadays.

Thanks.

(DR TURNER) Have you informed the police?

No, we didn't like to bother them.

They're too busy dealing with criminals, Doc.

Is it his jugular?

If it was his jugular, he'd be dead.

It's relatively superficial,

but it will need stitches and cleaning with antiseptic.

(LANCE) What like TCP?

I don't want TCP Char. It stings!

- (YELLS, GRUNTS) - (INHALES)

You don't have to drink it if you don't want to.

(TIMOTHY) No, I do want to.

It's quite nice.

(LANCE CONTINUES GRUNTING)

(DR TURNER) Press on here.

(GRUNTS)

(SIGHS)

You know you should have taken him to hospital.

But suffice to say, I know why you haven't and why you won't.

(TENSE MUSIC)

(DOOR CLOSES)

(MATTHEW) Who goes there?

Friend or foe?

Matthew!

Haven't you got anywhere more glamorous to go this evening?

Uh, the fumigators wanted my opinion

on a particularly intransigent rat's nest.

And they needed to be paid in cash.

Ugh. In fairness,

they've done frightfully well with the cockroaches.

I've been to the lavatory three times with this chamber pot,

and I haven't once felt anything crunch beneath my feet.

Things are improving, aren't they?

They are. And I, I could follow that with "At last!"

Or "And not before time", but, uh...

I don't feel inclined to do you that disservice.

It's never too late to change something for the better.

I take it you're here to deliver a baby or...

(ESME YELLS, GROANS IN THE DISTANCE)

You should get on. (SIGHS)

Time, tide and labouring women wait for no-one.

(DOOR CREAKS OPEN)

- (LANCE GROANING) - (QUIRKY MUSIC)

(LANCE) How many more?

I've already finished. (SIGHS)

Put it there.

(HANDS SQUISH)

Does your lad want a two piece suit?

It's top quality mohair yarn.

We... came by a job lot, but they're all a 38 chest.

- I'm a 38 chest. - Uh, no! Thank you.

Anita.

(CHARLIE) Get the doctor a couple of them mincemeat slices.

You must be starving.

I won't say no.

I expect you know my Anita from your clinic.

A baby on the way and all that.

I don't think we've met yet.

D'you want them on a plate, or a serviette?

Uh...

(GRUNTS) Oh. I don't want any more!

- (TRIXIE) Esme... - (ESME GROANS)

(TRIXIE) Esme, listen to me. The worst is over.

I mean I don't want any more kids!

We just need one enormous push, the biggest you can muster.

I want to go on the Pill, but the Pope won't allow it!

Esme, sweetie, now is not the time

to start debating the opinions of the See of Rome!

(YELLING)

(ESME GROANING IN THE DISTANCE)

(TRIXIE) Come on, Esme. Come on!

- (ESME YELLS) - (TRIXIE) Push!

That's it! That's it! That's it!

(ESME GRUNTS)

(BABY CRYING IN THE DISTANCE)

(TENDER MUSIC)

(BABY CRYING)

I'd do it all again. (SIGHS)

- (TRIXIE SIGHS) - (ESME CHUCKLES)

But the trouble is...

I'll probably have to.

(CHUCKLES)

Did you notice that girl,

the pregnant one?

Mr Big's wife?

She looked scared.

And not of what was happening in the flat.

She looked scared of you, Dad.

Tim, your mother is not going to hear a word about this.

Well, a new suit might be quite tricky to explain.

(DR TURNER SCOFFS)

(DR TURNER) Sometimes this job is all about asking questions,

and sometimes it's about doing what's essential.

Not asking anything at all.

(DOOR CLOSES IN THE DISTANCE)

(SIGHS)

(PENSIVE MUSIC)

- (KEYS JINGLE) - (SWITCH CLICKS)

(GRUNTS)

(TIN RATTLES)

(GRUNTS)

(TENSE MUSIC)

(FOIL RUSTLING)

(TENSE MUSIC CONTINUES)

(TIN COVER SHUTS)

(EXHALES DEEPLY)

(LIGHTLY MOANS)

(FOG HORN BLARES IN THE DISTANCE)

(PAPER RUSTLING)

A chap in an apron and a flat cap put them there.

(CHUCKLES)

It happens to us all the time at Christmas.

Several pounds of tangerines and a swede.

Costermonger must have left them.

I thought you'd gone home long ago!

I thought you might need a lift back.

- (DISTANT DOG BARKING) - (INHALES)

And I'd completely forgotten

that you'd have your bicycle with you.

(CHUCKLES)

(TRIXIE GIGGLES)

- (TRAIN CHUGGING IN THE DISTANCE) - (BICYCLE GEARS CLICKING)

(TRIXIE) I sometimes think a tangerine

smells more like Christmas than anything else,

more even than pine needles or cigar smoke.

I always get a box of Havanas in,

but I don't enjoy them, I just do it to be polite.

Same with cigarettes. And drink.

I just...

struggle to see the appeal.

I don't think I'll ever struggle to see the appeal of cigarettes.

Drink, I can live without.

(BICYCLE GEARS CLICKING)

I daresay my mother will try to force...

sherry, white wine and claret down me on Christmas Day.

- (BOTH CHUCKLE) - If I decline...

she'll think I'm not coping.

Your first Christmas as a father.

And your first Christmas without your wife.

Hmm.

Are you dreading it? (TRIXIE SIGHS)

I'm dreading my mother's bread sauce. (CHUCKLES)

(TENDER MUSIC)

I believe you accepted

Sister Julienne's invitation to the wedding.

On Boxing Day? Yes. Um...

I'm sure she only asked me out of courtesy, but...

You're our benefactor!

You're going to be invited to everything now for your sins.

(LAUGHS)

(DOOR OPENS)

I can neither greet you,

nor offer you the tidings of the season...

(SISTER MONICA JOAN DEEPLY BREATHES)

for the Great Silence has descended...

and I am mute!

(BOTTLES CLINKING)

(SIGHS)

(BOTH CHUCKLE)

(DOOR CLOSES)

It might do you good to be somewhere entirely different.

Do come, if you can bear it.

(TENDER MUSIC CONTINUES)

(GROANS)

(CAKE THUMPS)

And hey, presto!

It's no longer a wedding cake. It's a...

Christmas cake!

Cyril and Lucille are having an English wedding

in an English church with English weather.

It's only fair they get to do a bit of something from Jamaica.

I, meanwhile, acting with extraordinary good grace,

have decided that we can showcase a national traditional of our own.

We're going to host a hen night.

- (CHUCKLES) - (SISTER HILDA) Party games,

fruit punch...

and a selection of savoury snacks!

(GIGGLES)

Have you ever been to a hen night?

Before I took the veil, I was in the Women's Auxiliary Air Force!

- (BAND PLAYS CAROLS IN THE DISTANCE) - (REGGIE) More snow, Fred.

(REGGIE) More.

Go on, more.

- (REGGIE) More. - (CHUCKLES)

Reginald, if you hadn't noticed, is dreaming of a White Christmas.

The only other topic of conversation is your wedding,

which is also Violet's.

(CYRIL) Mrs Buckle!

I hear you finished your masterpiece today.

The dress?

(GASPS) I don't mind telling you, Cyril,

I was trembling all over when I finally gave it to Lucille.

I'll be trembling all over when I see her in it.

I can hardly wait.

(BOTH CHUCKLE)

Ask about the stag night!

Yeah, go on, Cyril.

She's been putting her foot down, but she can't resist your charms.

Please, let Reggie come out with us.

It'll be my last night of freedom before marriage.

(SMACKS LIPS) I wouldn't let Fred go,

if he wasn't best man!

It's just me and some church friends having a game of dominoes.

(BAND CAROL MUSIC PLAYING IN THE DISTANCE CONTINUES)

Very well.

So long as Reggie sticks to shandy.

(ALL LAUGH)

(METAL CLANKING)

Oh, if you're putting that wee in the post,

can you do these cards for me at the same time?

I'm afraid our urine samples are delivered

direct to the laboratory, Mrs Howells.

Maybe one of the nurses can pop to the post box for me later?

You don't seem to be particularly busy.

(QUIRKY MUSIC)

Is the doctor in?

(MISS HIGGINS) Doctor Turner is in consultation with a patient.

Please take a seat.

(NED) Oh, no, we're not stopping.

This comes with Charlie Page's compliments.

On account of the house call last night.

Oh, how very kind!

Miss Higgins, look at this!

Chocolates, a ham...

Is that a bottle of sherry?

It's actually rum.

Morning, Doctor!

Sent with the guvnor's compliments.

I really can't accept this. (SIGHS)

Well, I think it's extremely generous of Mr Page.

And I hope you'll pass on our appreciation.

(SHELAGH) Even perfume!

I'd describe it as a warm blend of woody florals, with a...

a touch of chypre.

Thanks, Doc, I appreciate it.

You're welcome. (SOFT CHUCKLE)

(TENDER MUSIC)

Oh!

You've put the dress up there.

Mrs Buckle hung it on the side of the wardrobe,

but the hem was getting crushed.

Phyllis?

Have I upset you?

(TENDER MUSIC CONTINUES)

There was a wedding dress on that hook once before.

You mean Barbara's?

Oh, Phyllis, that was so insensitive of me.

Oh, why?

Why are you calling yourself insensitive?

Oh, it's what any bride would do.

I'm the one who's being insensitive,

thinking about my old feelings.

Thinking about a girl you hardly knew.

No one will ever forget Barbara, Phyllis.

And I feel fortunate to have stepped into her shoes.

(TENDER MUSIC CONTINUES)

Tell me about her wedding.

(CLEARS THROAT)

She wore pure white...

and she carried crimson roses.

She had a satin Alice band.

She liked an Alice band.

And a velvet cape

with a fur-trimmed hood, like something from a fairy tale.

And I was her bridesmaid.

Not like something from a fairy tale.

No velvet cape?

(BOTH CHUCKLE)

I borrowed Violet's boucle coat suit,

and I ran up a little matching hat out of a remnant.

I did buy a double string of pearls, especially.

It seemed the proper thing to wear

in attendance on someone standing at the altar.

There's a purity to them...

like there was to her.

I've not had them out of the box since.

Oh... please, Lucille.

Don't let me go rattling on about myself!

You aren't even having any bridesmaids.

I would have done. (INHALES)

But I can't have my sisters and...

bridesmaids have to have meaning.

Oh.

Barbara had the right idea. And she was a very lucky girl.

(DOOR OPENS)

Good morning, Millicent.

Phyllis! A social visit, so early in the morning?

There are social implications,

but I also need your professional assistance.

(DOOR OPENS)

We need the doctor now.

- (TENSE MUSIC) - (GROANS)

Has he been drinking to excess?

Well, he's only had what we've all had.

We've been working a night shift.

(TENSE MUSIC CONTINUES)

(HURRIED FOOTSTEPS APPROACHING)

- (DR TURNER) Oh. - (NURSE CRANE) He's vomited...

and he doesn't seem to respond to stimuli.

He's still breathing,

but his pulse is thready.

- Alcohol? - No. Not ruddy alcohol.

His pupils are constricted, and his lips are blue!

Has he overdosed on some kind of opiate?

Heroin.

- (GASPS) - Heroin?

We need him sorted, Doctor!

The only place that can sort this man is a Casualty department!

(PANTING) Miss Higgins would you call

- for an ambulance, please. - (MISS HIGGINS) Yes.

Acute opiate intoxication and collapse.

(CHAIR CLANGS)

That's enough, thank you!

I hate drugs!

No, I naffing hate 'em! They're a sign of someone gone wrong.

Someone who can't keep themselves reigned in!

And you can, can you?

Last year, I saw my brother die because of that stuff.

The needle was still in his arm.

I was terrified to take him anywhere, because of the law.

It's not like flogging a few dodgy suits, is it?

(SIGHS)

We'll also need a mop and bucket, Nurse Crane.

The gentleman has voided his bladder.

(TENSE MUSIC)

(FOOTSTEPS RECEDING)

Are these all mine?

Oh, no, Reggie.

I got them on approval from the wholesaler.

So, you choose your favourite,

and then I'll send all the others back.

I like this one.

(VIOLET CHUCKLES)

That one's, um...

(CLEARS THROAT) pure silk. What about this one?

Is that silk?

Uh, it's artificial silk.

I want real silk.

It's for a wedding.

(PERCUSSIVE HOLIDAY MUSIC)

(CHILDREN GIGGLING)

(CHILDREN CHATTERING, GIGGLING)

(CHILDREN SHOUTING, LAUGHING)

(GIGGLES)

(CHILDREN GIGGLING)

- (BIRDS CHIRP) - (INDISTINCT BACKGROUND CHATTER)

Did you make this yourself, Colette?

It's a wedding card.

(CHUCKLES) She can see that.

It's got bits of white lace stuck on it.

You have a very clever little sister, Nancy!

Are you looking forward to coming to Nonnatus House on Christmas Day?

- (LUCILLE CHUCKLES) - (MRS WALLACE) Lucille!

Lucille!

Mrs Wallace! What's the matter?

Mr Randall him broke him shoulder!

There's nobody to give you away!

(BLANKET RUSTLING)

I'll have to walk myself down the aisle.

How can I ask anybody else from church

without hurting somebody's feelings?

I chose Fred for my best man because

he and Mrs Buckle were the first English friends I made.

(TENDER MUSIC)

(BLANKET RUSTLING)

Why don't you ask him to give you away?

Because... he already has a job to do.

Lucille, I've got Jesus at my shoulder

and a photograph of my grandfather to put in my suit pocket.

(CLICKS TONGUE) I won't be alone.

(SNICKERS)

(INDISTINCT CHATTER)

(LUCILLE) Please...

say yes, Mr Buckle!

(FRED) Well, I...

Uh, I've never given anyone away in church before, I...

I don't think there's a great deal of technique involved.

And I'll be as much of a novice as you!

Well, we'll work it out together then, won't we?

(CHUCKLES)

- (CHUCKLING) - (NUNS CHEERING)

(ALL LAUGHING)

(SISTER HILDA) More fruit punch? Any more fruit punch?

I detect a smidgeon

of something exotic in there, Sister Hilda?

(WHISPERING) Miss Higgins provided some rum.

It was donated to the surgery.

(TABLE SLAMS)

("TULIPS FROM AMSTERDAM" PLAYING)

(TABLE SLAMS)

(INDISTINCT CHATTER)

- Oh! - (LAUGHING)

Oh!

Well played. Yeah!

- (GRUNTS, LAUGHS) - (TABLE SLAMS)

(CHATTERING, LAUGHING)

Oh!

(LAUGHS)

Cheers!

- (CLAPPING) - (ALL LAUGHING)

Oh!

(LAUGHING)

(LAUGHS, SLAMS)

(TABLE SLAMS)

(TABLE SLAMS)

(CHEERING, LAUGHING)

(FESTIVE RHYTHMIC MUSIC PLAYS)

(CHATTERING, LAUGHING)

(GIGGLES)

This really is some lovely punch, Sister Hilda!

- (CHUCKLES) - Mmm.

You are quite the dark horse.

(GIGGLES)

I'm not entirely sure

I've got the balance of flavours right.

Practice makes perfect!

(BOTH CHUCKLE)

Cheers!

(FESTIVE RHYTHMIC MUSIC CONTINUES)

(LAUGHING)

(QUIRKY MUSIC)

(SIGHS)

(BULB POPS)

(LOUDLY WHISPERING) It's only the bulb. Keep going.

- (HEAD BANGS) - Ah!

- (NURSE CRANE) Oh! - (TRIXIE) Lucille!

(LUCILLE LAUGHING)

I saw... I saw stars! (CHUCKLES)

And they're as pretty as you please.

(GIGGLING)

Maybe I just have stars in my eyes because I'm in love.

- (ALL LAUGH) - Bed!

(QUIRKY MUSIC CONTINUES)

- (MOTOR WHIRRING) - (BOTTLES CLINKING)

(SIGHS)

- (FAUCET SQUEAKS OPEN) - (WATER FLOWS, SPLASHES)

Oh, my goodness!

(ICE SHAKING)

You must remain calm

and keep reminding yourself that it's only a black eye.

And you're not getting married for three whole days!

It'll get worse before it gets better.

But it will get better.

Besides, there's nothing Trixie can't salvage

with a bit of Panstik.

I think we ought to put raw mince under the icepack.

Aren't you supposed to put steak on black eyes?

(TRIXIE) Well, since the Nonnatus House fridge

didn't run to rump, sirloin or fillet,

this will have to do.

(PILLS RATTLING)

Oh, and aspirin.

The aspirin brings down swelling.

Is it swollen as well?

Try this, sweetie.

And just keep saying to yourself, "I am going to be a beautiful bride!"

I don't feel like a bride.

I feel like something in a butcher's window.

(QUIRKY MUSIC)

(TYPEWRITING TAPPING)

Still no sign of Mrs Anita Page?

None whatsoever.

And I did write,

as you requested, with the details of this extra clinic.

I'll arrange for a home visit, as soon as possible.

(INDISTINCT BACKGROUND CHATTER)

(SISTER FRANCES) Mrs Chu?

Nothing to worry about here.

That's good, then.

Are you fretting about something, Mrs Chu?

I'm just wishing I hadn't plumped for a home birth,

when they said there wasn't any room at St Cuthbert's.

People used to have babies at home all the time!

- What, even their first? - (SISTER FRANCES) Absolutely!

There's a lot to commend it.

You'll have a midwife with you every minute of your labour.

And you'll get to see much more of your husband.

I'm worried he'll get upset with all the carry-on.

He's not much of a coper.

(SNICKERS) Your husband doesn't have to cope.

You do the coping,

and I'll help you.

(INDISTINCT BACKGROUND CHATTER)

Are you thinking they look puffy?

It's something we always look at, Mrs Kaufopolous.

It can indicate certain problems.

I tell you what these indicate.

I've just got terrible fat ankles.

They run in the family.

We all look like our legs have been put on upside down.

(CHUCKLES) I'm giving you

a clean bill of health, don't worry!

(QUIRKY MUSIC)

(DEEP INHALE)

(DEEPLY GASPS)

(DOOR OPENS)

(QUIRKY MUSIC CONTINUES)

Oh, Nurse Anderson.

Please, may I see Dr Turner?

(QUIRKY MUSIC CONTINUES)

(CURTAIN RUSTLING)

Oh, you poor girl.

It's more than a black eye.

There's a huge collection of blood underneath the skin.

But I'm getting married in three days!

You need to go to hospital and have this X-rayed,

to rule out an orbital fracture.

A fracture?

What will they do if it's a fracture?

Sometimes, occasionally,

surgery is necessary.

I think it's best not to dwell on "sometimes" and "occasionally".

There's only going to be one wedding, we need to train our sights on that.

(SWITCH CLICKS)

(MELANCHOLIC MUSIC)

(TIN CLATTERING)

(BAG THUDS)

(TIN CLICKS)

(PAPERS RUSTLING)

Smashing job, Reggie. (GRUNTS)

I reckon it's time to put the kettle on

for a well deserved beverage.

I want to read the weather forecast.

Well, it's just gonna say the same as it keeps saying.

(FRED) We're in for a mild snap.

I want snow.

I know it doesn't feel like Christmas when you're sweating,

but the baby Jesus was born in Israel.

And I've seen Israel on the news,

it's got palm trees!

What does it say in the paper?

(SIGHS)

(FRED) It says...

"mild night with a moderate breeze".

(REGGIE) Oh.

(BREATHING HEAVILY)

(MOANS)

(GRUNTS)

(SUSPENSEFUL MUSIC)

(SIGHS)

(LIQUID FLOWING, DRIPPING)

Hmm?

(MUMBLING)

(SIGHS)

(RADIO MUSIC PLAYING)

(SIGHS)

I uh... I've given them all a night off.

- Oh. - I reckoned you'd be tired,

after coming back from the clinic.

What did the doctor say?

Oh, it was just the midwives.

Nothing to report,

they said I've got ages to go.

My mum reckons you need to drink more milk.

So, uh...

I asked her how to make cheese on toast.

Oh.

Come on.

(BICYCLE BELL RINGING)

(PANTS)

- (DOORBELL RINGS) - (DOOR OPENS)

How is she?

They couldn't do anything for her at the hospital and sent her home.

They say it'll clear in a week to ten days!

How bad is it?

Looks like a slice of blood pudding.

(SCOFFS)

(SNIFFS)

(SOBS)

(KNOCKING)

Lucille?

Will you let me come in and talk to you?

Talk to me through the door!

I don't care what you look like,

you hear me?

You are the most beautiful woman that ever drew breath.

(CRIES)

I don't care if you do have an eye like a slice of blood pudding!

(MUFFLED CRYING)

(SOBS) You aren't going to see it anyway!

Because if it's not going to get better for ten days,

the wedding is off!

(LUCILLE BAWLS)

Can't you just tell her you'll cover it with her veil?

Cyril. We couldn't cover it with a tarpaulin.

(SOBBING)

(CANE TAPPING)

I've been in consultation with our esteemed doctor.

My memory may not always serve me well,

but... there are methods from the past

that may serve us in the present.

(GIGGLES)

(UPLIFTING MUSIC)

- (MOTOR WHIRRING) - (FOOTSTEPS THUMPING)

(BRAKES SQUEAK)

(VEHICLE DOOR CLOSES)

(MOTHER MILDRED) Oh.

(GRUNTING)

(BOTTLES CLINKING)

(SIGHS) Welcome, Mother Mildred,

my dear Sister.

Felicitations of Christ-tide!

(CHUCKLING) Thank you.

Thanks.

I presume you have

a comprehensive programme of activities planned

for my illumination and diversion?

This morning, we're...

actually in the grip of a, a medical emergency.

In which case, we must all have some milky Nescafe.

Milkman,

how many bottles can I persuade you to donate?

The most important thing to remember is,

this method may have gone out of fashion,

but it's been tried and tested for hundreds of years.

I've seen it used oft,

uh, when doctors were a luxury,

and herbalists were won't to play their trade.

And Theocritus spoke of it,

in the third century BC.

(VOICE TREMBLING) In the third century BC,

people never know about bacteria!

Your eye is to be bathed in sterile water,

before the procedure can commence.

Sterile water? I'm sorry.

You need iodine.

I'm afraid we can't use iodine,

or any other kind of antiseptic.

(DR TURNER) If we do...

the leeches will die.

(DRAMATIC MUSIC)

(EVELYN GRUNTS)

Timing couldn't have worked out better.

Home for Christmas Eve! (CHUCKLES)

If I'm lucky, they'll have even peeled the spuds.

You look very well rested, I have to say.

But your blood pressure's up!

You aren't going anywhere, I'm afraid.

(SOMBRE MUSIC)

(NANCY) Oh...

I feel sick just looking at them.

They're medicinal leeches.

I collected them from the laboratory at St Bart's this morning.

Once, every doctor farmed his own.

Sooner you than me.

(DR TURNER) You won't feel any pain once the leech is in position.

It releases a natural anaesthesia into the wound,

as soon as it starts to feed on the blood,

that's pooled behind your eyelid.

(SISTER MONICA JOAN) If the leech is at room temperature,

it should choose to bite and suck without delay.

But I fear the condition of this jar...

is not ambient.

So,

I am going to make a tiny prick

with a sterile needle like so...

releasing a tiny drop of blood,

just to encourage it.

(DR TURNER) And... ah.

That's the ticket. (INHALES)

- (LUCILLE GASPING) - All is well.

(SISTER MONICA JOAN) You merely walk a path that...

many trod before you.

(SUSPENSEFUL MUSIC)

(DR TURNER) Seems to be attaching nicely.

(LUCILLE) How does it look?

Well, the, the good news is, it's a fairly sizeable specimen.

(DR TURNER) So, I think you won't need more than the one.

In 45 minutes, we'll examine it

and see if it's drunk its fill.

(GROANS)

Oh, God.

- (CHARLIE SLURPING) - (CUPS AND FLATWARE CLATTERS)

(SIGHS)

Oh...

are you going to be alright?

Oh, I've got all the wrapping up to do.

That'll keep me entertained!

(CHUCKLES)

(DOOR OPENS)

Oh!

- (GRUNTS) - (DOOR CLOSES)

(SIGHS)

(TENDER MUSIC)

Right.

It's been 50 minutes.

Hold this.

What if it hasn't worked?

If the swelling has not reduced,

it will not merely be the leech that failed us.

The power of prayer has been found wanting,

in addition.

It's already detached.

(LUCILLE GASPS)

- (CLANGS) - (LEECH SQUISHES)

(GASPING)

I can open my eye!

(LUCILLE GASPS)

- (LUCILLE) Oh! - (DR TURNER) The puncture wound

will continue to ooze blood for as long as ten hours,

until the haematoma is completely drained.

Oh, the leech, uh, secretes a chemical...

The chemistry is of no consequence.

(SIGHS)

Our bride-to-be will be restored

to unblemished perfection.

And that is the only fact that matters.

(INDISTINCT CHATTER)

(WARM MUSIC)

Hey, Reg!

How about a carrot for Rudolph?

Snowflake!

You'd need a magnifying glass to see that!

There's another one!

(WARM MUSIC BUILDS)

Yeah!

(PENSIVE MUSIC)

(GRUNTS)

(GASPS, GRUNTS)

(GASPS, GROANS)

- (DOOR CLOSES) - (SIGHS)

I never thought we'd pull that one off, Millicent.

I feel like a cross between an undercover spy

and an overwrought fairy godmother.

I feel like a stiff glass of sherry.

(BOTH LAUGH)

Excuse me!

- (MISS HIGGINS) Oh. - I need help.

(GASPS, GROANS)

(BELLS RINGING)

(WARM MUSIC)

(SNOW HUSHING)

(WARM MUSIC CONTINUES)

(DOOR OPENS)

(DOOR CHIME RINGING)

(DOOR CLOSES)

(WARM MUSIC BUILDS)

(WARM MUSIC CONTINUES)

(BRAKES SCREECHING)

(DOOR OPENS)

- (ENGINE STOPS) - (CAR DOOR OPENS)

(GRUNTS) Lady in the back of the van,

- second stage! - (CAR DOOR CLOSES)

We need to get her inside.

(CAR DOOR OPENS)

(GRUNTS) It's coming!

- (MATCH STRIKES) - (FLAME SIZZLES)

(PENSIVE MUSIC)

(GRUNTS, YELLS)

All is well, Anita. All is well.

Bring the birthing chair!

Will I, will I know what to do?

Yes, lass!

Look how far you've come already!

(GRUNTING)

(NURSE CRANE) Now you listen to Nurse Franklin now.

(DRAMATIC MUSIC)

(GROANING)

(DRAMATIC MUSIC CONTINUES)

(GRUNTING)

(PANTING)

(GRUNTING)

Anita... This contraction is going to give us baby's head.

No big sounds, just short little breaths.

(TRIXIE TAKES SHORT BREATHS)

(SHORT BREATHS)

Well done. Well done!

(ANITA CONTINUES SHORT BREATHS)

(INTENSE GRUNTING)

(LIQUID SPURTS)

(PANTING)

(BABY CRYING)

You have a girl, Anita.

(BABY CRYING)

(TRIXIE) A gorgeous,

gorgeous little girl!

(BABY CRYING CONTINUES)

Small.

Is she alright?

Is she alright?

(BABY CRYING CONTINUES)

She is absolutely beautiful!

(PANTING)

(WARM MUSIC BUILDS, FADES)

Please, may I speak to Nurse Lucille Anderson?

You already are, Pastor Robinson.

(CYRIL)I was thinking...

- (CHUCKLES) - tomorrow's Christmas Day...

and I'm not allowed to see you because the next day is Boxing Day,

and we're getting married.

It isn't tomorrow yet.

- (SNOW HUSHING) - (DOOR OPENS, CLOSES)

(WARM MUSIC)

(DOOR OPENS)

(GIGGLES)

(DOOR CLOSES)

(BOTH LAUGHING)

(WARM MUSIC BUILDS)

(BOTH LAUGHING)

Have you seen it?

(LUCILLE) Have you seen my eye?

It's perfect.

You realise you would have had to say that anyway?

And you realise I would have thought it anyway?

It's perfect!

Perfect. Perfect.

(EVELYN) It's a shock when you have your first.

How much did she weigh?

Four pound 10.

(EVELYN) Oh, you'll soon fatten her up.

I've seen babies inflate like balloons.

(CRIB ROLLING)

(NURSE CRANE) Your husband has telephoned,

and I conveyed the glad tidings.

He's coming in tomorrow.

You need your rest,

and Her Ladyship here needs a try at the breast.

I'm not feeding her myself!

Absolutely not!

Well, she'll come to no harm tonight

if I just give her a bottle in the nursery.

- (CRIB ROLLING) - (FOOTSTEPS RECEDING)

We have to find a carrot somewhere for the nose.

Them always have carrots for noses

when you see them in a storybook.

(LAUGHS) Are you giving me instructions

on how to build this thing?

Me, an award-winning civil engineer?

All I'm saying is,

it look more like a cat than a snowman.

- (LAUGHS) - (LUCILLE CHUCKLES)

(WIND WHOOSHING)

Happy White Christmas!

Reggie? What are you doing out at this time of night?

(REGGIE) It's snowing!

The snow might melt.

We thought the same.

Who wants to wake up in the morning to a load of old slush, hey?

Are you on your own, Reggie?

Where's its head?

You want to help us finish it?

Yeah!

I'll go and telephone Fred and Violet,

so they know you'll be home soon.

(HUMS) And you bring us

that nose when you come back!

And something to make a set of buttons!

(CHURCH BELLS RINGING IN THE DISTANCE)

(SIGHS)

(SIGHS)

- (GRUNTS) - (LAUGHING)

- (SNOWBALL THUMPS) - (LAUGHING)

(CYRIL) Alright! Okay, alright.

One last snowball?

Just one...

- each! - (LAUGHS)

You win! You win! Alright!

(CHUCKLES)

There'll be bells for your wedding soon.

There will.

And then you will never be lonely.

No.

I feel sorry for lonely people.

(REGGIE) I have love.

- So, I am lucky. - (DOOR CHIMES OPEN)

And wise too.

- (VIOLET) Reggie! - (REGGIE) Oops!

Reggie, what are you playing at?

He's alright, Mrs Buckle!

- No harm done. - Hmm.

Reggie, have you picked out a tie for this wedding of mine?

Might have.

Is it a very, very special one?

It's silk.

Because there's something I'd like to ask you.

(BIRDS CHIRPING)

(SNUFFLING)

Hi, little one.

You know if it hadn't been Christmas Day,

I'd have got you a bunch of roses as big as the Ritz.

- Thank you. - No.

Thank you.

All I wanted was to be a father, and you've given me that.

Well... do you want to call her after your brother?

Dean?

I, I was thinking Denise.

No.

I'm not calling her after anyone who threw their life away.

(DOOR OPENS)

Nurse!

- Merry Christmas! - (EVELYN SIGHS)

Compliments of the season.

(EVELYN BREATHES DEEPLY)

I have just lost

the biggest mucus plug you have ever seen.

And I'm having twinges.

(GROANS)

("JINGLE BELL ROCK" PLAYING)

(CHILDREN LAUGHING)

(ALL LAUGH)

(CHILDREN LAUGHING CONTINUES)

Would you put all the crackers out?

We want them to go out to everybody.

("JINGLE BELL ROCK" CONTINUES)

(BALLOONS SQUEAKING)

(BALLOONS SQUEAKING CONTINUES)

- (BALLOONS POPPING) - (GASPING)

- Oh! - (ALL LAUGHING)

Mrs Howells is ticking along nicely. But...

because it's her fifth baby,

I called St Cuthbert's to see about transferring her,

but there's no beds available.

Well, I've no concerns about her delivering with us.

(CHUCKLES)

You know where I am if there are any complications.

Thank you. Bye.

- (PHONE RATTLING) - Oh!

(SCOFFS) Mrs Howells,

I need you back in bed.

And I need to talk to my husband about the dinner.

(KEYPAD RATTLING)

(SIGHS)

(PHONE RINGING)

Nonnatus House, midwife speaking.

(HENRY)It's Mr Chu.

Please come. My wife needs you.

- (BABY CRYING) - (FOOTSTEPS APPROACHING)

Sweetie.

(BABY CRYING)

- (BABY CRYING CONTINUES) - (SHUSHING)

- (SIGHS) - (BABY CRYING)

The sprouts and the carrot and swede,

both need a good 40 minutes on a low light.

And you need the water off them for the gravy. And...

Mr Howells?

Rest assured,

tap water will be entirely fit for purpose.

- (PHONE CLANKS) - That call was important!

- (WATER DRIPS, FLOWS) - (BABY CRYING CONTINUES)

So is this. We need help.

(PHONE RATTLES)

- (BABY CRIES) - (SIGHS)

(DOOR OPENS)

(SISTER FRANCES) Midwife calling!

- (DOOR CLOSES) - Oh, Merry Christmas, Mrs Chu!

I've just been putting new sheets on the bed!

They were a wedding present,

and I've been saving them for the big event.

Not that I want to crush your spirits,

but I think you may come to regret that.

- (SISTER FRANCES CHUCKLES) - (GROANS, BREATHES HEAVILY)

Do you need hot water?

Not just yet.

(HEAVY BREATHING CONTINUES)

- (BABY CRYING) - And she isn't feeding?

Barely half an ounce, and she brought it all back up.

It's the high-pitched cry that worries me the most.

(SHRILL CRYING)

How is her mother?

She's just started to worry me as well.

(BABY SQUEALING)

(BABY SHRIEKS)

(GROANS)

(ANITA SIGHS)

(SISTER JULIENNE) Anita,

I know your waters broke some time before you contacted us.

Can you specify how long it was?

A day?

Maybe more.

I didn't have any pains.

(ANITA) Not straight away.

I think you may have contracted an infection.

I'd like the doctor to come and see you,

and he can take a look at baby at the same time.

(EVELYN GROANS)

I'll move Mrs Howells to the delivery room.

(TENSE MUSIC)

(SIGHS)

(DR TURNER) Now just keep that turkey hot,

and we'll be back before you get to the cheese and biscuits.

(DR TURNER CHUCKLES)

- Come on, no sad faces. - (CAR DOOR CLOSES)

This happens to daddies who are doctors all the time.

- (SIGHS) - (CAR REVS OFF)

(SUSAN HEAVILY BREATHING)

(GRUNTING)

Keep it coming, Susan! Try to keep it coming!

(GRUNTING)

(PANTING)

You haven't said, "Well done" for ages.

(GRUNTS)

I'm pushing hard enough to get an elephant out!

I know you are.

I think we're gonna need a change of tack.

- I won't be a moment. - (SIGHS)

- (MUSIC PLAYS ON TV) - It's the Queen's speech.

Mr Chu, can you telephone Nonnatus House

and tell them Susan's baby is in the breech position?

Is that bad?

No!

I saw them all the time when I was in training!

(NERVOUS CHUCKLE)

(DRAMATIC MUSIC)

(PHONE RINGS)

Nonnatus House, midwife speaking.

Well, sort of...

(SISTER JULIENNE)Nurse Corrigan...

can you send Sister Hilda to the maternity home immediately?

Another mother in labour has arrived.

(NANCY)Yeah. Do I need to...

take a name or anything?

Maria Kaufopolous.

I think you're going to have to spell that for me.

(BUSY TONE)

(TENSE MUSIC)

(BUSY TONE CONTINUES)

(PHONE RECEIVER BANGS)

I don't do it every day.

It's just when I feel bad.

When you feel bad like this?

When I feel bad inside,

when I want to feel calm, as if...

nothing matters.

Where do you get the heroin from, Anita?

Oh, friends of friends.

It's not hard, when you know who to ask.

It's in fashion.

The medication I've just given you

is very similar to the drug that you've become addicted to.

I've prescribed it. So, it's legal.

How soon will it work?

(SIGHS) Soon enough.

But before my Charlie's in for visiting?

(SIGHS) Your husband doesn't know, does he?

I was really...

really good at managing it.

Anita. I don't think you were.

(SISTER JULIENNE) Doctor!

Doctor, would you come through to the nursery?

Baby Page is fitting.

- (DRAMATIC MUSIC) - (GASPS)

(FOOTSTEPS RECEDING)

How can a breech birth be "not much different"?

A bum is nothing like an head!

Your baby's still going to be born naturally.

Susan, you're still gonna push him out into the world,

and we're going to guide you.

How many of you?

Just me and another midwife...

and the doctor will probably drop by,

just to make sure everything is as it should be.

- (DOOR OPENS) - (HENRY PANTING)

I couldn't get through. The line was engaged!

But it isn't as it should be, is it?

It, it isn't as it usually is.

But breech births are not rare.

And they're nothing to be afraid of.

But are you afraid, Sister?

Give me your hand.

You're not shaking.

No. I'm not.

I trust ya.

(DRAMATIC MUSIC)

I want these warmed,

and I need two kitchen chairs.

And when you come back, you'll have to put on a gown and mask.

(PLASTIC RUSTLES)

(BABY CRYING)

The convulsions have eased off.

In line with her temperature coming down.

(SIGHS) But there are no two ways about it,

this poor little scrap is in wretched distress.

The baby is as addicted as her mother.

Anita knew what she was doing.

She avoided tests and appointments...

- (BABY CRYING CONTINUES) - refused to breastfeed.

Must we give the baby opiates?

I don't know what else we can do.

But nor do I know what dose, or what frequency.

(SIGHS) I've never seen anything like this

in such a tiny child.

Next time you push, Susan,

I want you to brace your feet against these chairs, okay?

- Right now. Now push! - (GRUNTS)

- (SISTER FRANCES) Push! - (GRUNTS)

Go on, push. Everything's under control!

(SUSAN YELLS, GRUNTS)

(SISTER FRANCES) There we go, there we go.

(GRUNTS, PANTING)

Don't be afraid of pushing hard.

Okay, if needs be, I'll support your perineum with my hand.

What's a perineum?

It's the band of tissue

between your birth canal and your anus.

I'll show you a diagram later. (INHALES)

Get me the warm towels.

Then I want you up on the bed behind your wife, supporting her.

Baby's bottom's almost with us, Susan.

With the next contraction,

I want you to push exactly like you pushed last time.

- (WHIMPERS) - (SISTER FRANCE) There we go...

- (YELLS, GRUNTS) - There we go.

Way to go. Come on.

(LAUGHING FROM TELEVISION)

(CHILDREN LAUGHING)

(LAUGHING FROM TELEVISION CONTINUES)

Oh.

One for Dr Turner,

one for Sister Hilda, one for Master Timothy,

one for Nurse Franklin and one for Sister Julienne.

Uh, no sprouts for the latter.

I've observed she deems it as somewhat...

indelicate vegetable.

(CHUCKLES)

(VIOLET) And we mustn't forget some of these!

I've never seen so many unpulled crackers.

I shall, of course, lead from the front.

Follow me, troops!

- (CANE TAPPING) - (SIGHS)

(VIOLET) Oh.

(SUSAN WHIMPERS)

(HENRY) Is it just hanging there?

(SISTER FRANCES) We're just waiting for Baby's head

to move through Susan's pelvis.

His body is resting here.

He's wrapped up warm...

so the cold won't shock or disturb him.

Are you alright, Susan?

Mm-hmm.

(UPLIFTING MUSIC BUILDS)

There, I can see his hairline,

which is just what we want.

So...

I am going to pop baby over my arm...

and then I want you to give me some little pushes

as we ease his head out, okay?

(SISTER FRANCES) There we go.

- (WHIMPERS, GRUNTS) - (SISTER FRANCES) There we go.

(SUSAN BREATHING RAPIDLY, GRUNTS)

- (SUSAN GRUNTS) - (BABY SQUISHING)

(DRAMATIC MUSIC)

- (BABY SQUISHING) - (SUSAN GRUNTS)

- (BABY CRYING) - (SUSAN PANTING)

(SISTER FRANCES) Congratulations!

- (SISTER FRANCES CHUCKLES) - (SUSAN) Oh.

(SISTER FRANCES) Look at you!

(GENTLE MUSIC)

My first breach...

uh, Christmas Day baby!

- (SISTER FRANCES CHUCKLES) - (SUSAN CRYING)

(HENRY VOICE CRACKING) Did we do that?

(WHIMPERS)

(CRYING) I think we did!

You never know what you can do, until you try!

(CHUCKLES)

Oh, isn't that ruddy head out yet?

Baby's being a bit bashful, I'm afraid.

I'll give it what for, once it's out.

We bring succour and the comestibles of the day!

Mr Buckle will be up with the rest directly.

Mrs Kaufoplous is going to have to deliver on the ward.

I must find a gown and see if they need help.

Uh, I will accompany you!

I could have done this at home!

It hardly hurts at all.

That's my girl.

Christmas baby and all!

Only one lot of presents to get.

It's getting two lots!

One wrapped in birthday paper, one in Christmas paper!

I'm about to perform a very personal examination

on your wife, Mr Kaufopolous.

I suggest you...

retreat to Reception, where ample reading matter is supplied.

(BABY SHRILL CRYING)

It is a new challenge in this country,

and it will become a scourge.

But one constantly saw babies suffer like this in Hong Kong.

There'd always been opium and always laws against it.

But heroin...

(MOTHER MILDRED) Infants born to addicted mothers

arrive weighing less than they should,

crying more than they should.

Febrile and... often convulsive.

(BABY CRYING)

Your daughter...

was one such child.

May?

She screamed,

and she trembled, for thirteen days.

(MOTHER MILDRED) Her mother likewise,

trying to cleanse her blood

of the drug.

We never knew!

Well, we were never told.

It is in her past.

One day, it will be in this one's past.

(MOTHER MILDRED) I know the dosage

and the method.

No nurse who has done this work forgets.

(BABY CRYING)

Any more than she can forget that cry.

I want to do it.

Administer the drugs?

Administer the drugs

and hold her.

So that she's not alone.

I will not fight you for the honour.

And it is an honour,

to nurse a new life back to where it ought to be.

Despite the pain for all involved.

She will need chloral hydrate, for sedation.

And you will of course transfer her to the Children's hospital.

(DR TURNER) It's Christmas Day.

I haven't even been able to speak to The Consultant.

For tonight, I will advise on the dosage...

and then depart.

The measure of love the child requires...

you know already.

Doctor, I'm afraid you're needed in the delivery room.

Evelyn Howells' baby's taking too long.

(SOMBRE MUSIC)

(BABY CRYING)

- (SNAPS) - (LAUGHS)

Tim. We're preparing for forceps.

Do you want to observe?

Not half!

Charlie saved me!

Or he thought he did.

Anita...

The next chapter isn't going to be about saving you.

It will be about doing what's best for your daughter.

And that's for the Welfare Office to decide.

I was under the Welfare Office...

because my mother drank.

She'd go to the pub in broad daylight and the corner shop after dark.

You'd be amazed what you can find underneath a counter.

And the way it seeps out of their pores the next day.

I can't even walk past a pub with the door open 'cause I think...

"That's the smell of my mum's skin...

and her hair."

Did the welfare office take you into care?

I wanted them to.

And I was terrified they would but...

my mum needed me.

And I was good at being needed.

(TENDER MUSIC)

She died of a haemorrhage.

Afterwards, I just stripped the bedding

and threw it right down the rubbish chute

'cause I knew I'd never get the blood off.

And then I laid down on the mattress and slept for three days.

I was eleven.

It's your baby who needs you now, Anita.

I should have done better than my mother did, shouldn't I?

Not worse.

Can I hold her?

(TENDER MUSIC)

(BABY BREATHING)

She's never gonna smell anything bad on me.

She's gonna think I smell like soap...

and roses...

or lemons...

only good things.

Like a proper mother.

I bet it wasn't like this in ruddy Bethlehem!

(TRIXIE) No. Poor Mary didn't have any gas and air for a start.

(BREATHES IN)

You can have it, if you need it for the pain,

but a very small amount.

You'll be able to concentrate better.

(EXHALES)

- (EVELYN SIGHS) - (TRIXIE) Wait for the pain, Evelyn.

(TRIXIE) Wait for the pain.

(TRIXIE) Now you can push!

- (EVELYN GRUNTS) - (DR TURNER) Not too hard.

(GRUNTS)

(DR TURNER) Let me do the heavy work.

- (DR TURNER) Just keep bearing down. - (EVELYN GRUNTING)

Push it down.

- (MARIA GRUNTS) - (SISTER HILDA) Down.

That's right.

(YELLS, CRIES)

(MARIA YELLS)

(EVELYN GRUNTS, GROANS)

(GROANS, PANTS)

(DR TURNER GRUNTS)

(GRUNTS, YELLS)

(GRUNTS) And it's out!

(EVELYN GRUNTS, PANTS)

(EVELYN) Have I ripped?

I feel like you've ripped me open!

Doctor gave you an episiotomy.

One or two stitches, and all will be well.

I need to clear its airways.

(PANTING)

(TENSE MUSIC)

(YELLS, CRIES)

This will pass, Maria.

(SISTER HILDA) This will pass.

I thought this might be required.

(WAILING) It's not stopping!

It's just not stopping!

Maria. Let me feel your tummy.

- (YELLING, CRIES) - Oh!

(CRYING)

(SOBBING, YELLING)

- (SUCKING) - (BABY CRIES)

(DR TURNER) And there we are.

- (SIGHS) - Welcome to the world.

(BABY CRYING)

(GRUNTS) I think the afterbirth's coming.

(DOOR OPENS)

Maria Kaufopolous. Intra-partum haemorrhage.

(BABY CRYING)

(WARM MUSIC)

- (DOOR CLOSES) - (TRIXIE SIGHS)

Come on then, Mr Medical Student.

- What have I got? - (BABY CRYING)

It's a boy!

(LAUGHS) Just what I wanted for Christmas.

A five-a-side football team.

- (PANTING, GROANING) - (DR TURNER) Now keep pushing, Maria.

Just push and push.

We need this baby to be born as soon as possible.

Pulse is a hundred and twenty. Syntometrine, ergometrine.

The Flying Squad are on their way.

(SISTER HILDA) Come on, Maria darling.

Push for your baby!

Push as hard as you can!

(GRUNTS, YELLS)

The baby's out.

(METAL INSTRUMENTS CLINKING)

(SOBBING, PANTING)

(DR TURNER) The baby's breathing, but he's shocked.

He needs oxygen.

(TENSE MUSIC)

(PANTING)

(TENSE MUSIC CONTINUES)

(VALVE SQUEAKING)

(OXYGEN HISSING)

(LABOURED BREATHING)

The placenta's out,

but she's still bleeding.

(CRYING)

(OXYGEN HISSING)

(LABOURED BREATHING)

Sister.

(MARIA) You're not praying!

Pray, now!

Not some other time, when this is all a memory.

(CRYING)

(TENDER MUSIC)

(OXYGEN HISSING)

That's it, come on.

(BELL RINGING)

(DOOR OPENS)

(DOOR CLOSES)

There are times when I find silence as plangent as any bell.

I think often of the peace in that stable,

after darkness fell.

There's no peace to be had in the parlour.

The Turner's offspring are all crying for their parents.

Is there nothing to distract them on their infernal television?

Uh, only light entertainment.

And they don't like Ken Dodd?

(CHUCKLES)

(MOP SQUISHING)

(CALM MUSIC)

I lived in terror of you finding out...

of anybody finding out.

What did you think I would do?

Stop loving me.

Start hating me, like you hate your brother.

Hating him hurts less than missing him.

And I don't want to have to miss you.

Well, they...

they're trying to see if they can get me treatment.

You know, find somewhere for me to go.

You come back.

Things would be better.

Even if it was just us two?

Without the baby?

Nobody knows what the authorities are gonna say.

I don't do what the authorities say. I never have.

And now we both have to,

because of me.

I'm sorry.

(SOMBRE MUSIC)

Look, I'd do anything for ya.

But I'd do even more for her.

And you've got to be able to say the same for both of us.

So, you're gonna have to kick the gear.

Or turn your back on it and walk away.

I'll try.

I need you to.

And so does she.

I'm good at being needed.

"'Christmas a humbug, uncle?'

said Scrooge's nephew.

'You don't mean that, I'm sure?'

-'I do!' -(CHILDREN LAUGH)

Said Scrooge.

'Merry Christmas!'

'What right have you to be merry?'

'What reason have you to be merry?'

'You're poor enough.'

'Come, then, '

returned the nephew gaily.

'What right have you to be dismal?'

'What right have you to be morose?'"

(WARM MUSIC)

I just spoke to St Cuthbert's. (SIGHS)

Maria Kaufopolous' baby has had a blood transfusion,

as has she.

But both will recover.

(SIGHS)

Now what about this little one?

She will go by ambulance to the Children's Hospital later tonight

where you can help to wean her off the heroin.

She will have a future.

(SIGHS)

She's given me the chance to travel back in time.

(SIGHS)

(SIGHS)

"'If I could work my will, '

said Scrooge indignantly,

'every idiot who goes about with 'Merry Christmas' on his lips...'

- (CHILDREN GIGGLING) - '...should be boiled

with his own pudding'

'and buried with a stake of holly through his heart. He should!'

'There are many things from which I might have derived good, '

'by which I have not profited, I dare say, '

returned the nephew.

'Christmas among the rest.'

'But I am sure

I have always thought of Christmas time,

when it has come round, as a good time.

A kind, forgiving, charitable, pleasant time.

The only time I know of, in the long calendar of the year,

when men and women seem by one consent

to open their shut-up hearts freely

and to think of people below them as if they really were

fellow passengers to the grave

and not another race of creatures bound on other journeys.

'And therefore, uncle,

though it has never put a scrap of gold or silver in my pocket,

I believe that it has done me good,

and will do me good.

And I say...

'God bless it!'"

(UPLIFTING MUSIC)

(LOCKET CLICKS)

(DOOR OPENS)

Telegrams have started arriving!

(BOTH CHUCKLE)

(DOOR CLOSES)

You are supposed to be next on the bathroom rota!

(CHUCKLES) Phyllis, where have you been?

That's for me to know and the bride to find out.

(CHUCKLES)

What's this?

Open it.

(TENDER MUSIC)

(LUCILLE) I found them in the drawer, I hope you don't mind.

"Wear your pearls today, for Barbara.

Because love lasts longer...

(STARTS CRYING) than time itself, and..."

Friendship never dies.

(TENDER MUSIC CONTINUES)

(DEEP INHALE)

I'll miss you, lass.

(TONGUE CLICKS) And I'll miss you.

(LUCILLE) But I'll be living close by...

and our lives will stay entwined.

(PEARLS RATTLE)

(BRUSH RUSTLING)

I did absolutely the right thing

putting these corsages in the outhouse overnight.

They're as crisp and fresh as they were

when I finished putting them together.

Lucille is going to have kittens!

That was Cyril's boss.

The wedding car's broken down.

(DOOR KNOCKING)

Yup.

(DOOR OPENS)

Oh! Total punctuality!

Just what I expect from my best man.

(REGGIE CHUCKLES)

That's not straight.

(WARM MUSIC)

Thank you.

Shall I leave you to it?

(SIGHS)

Reggie's going to look after me just fine.

(FOOTSTEPS RECEDING)

(ENGINE THROTTLES DOWN)

(DOOR CLOSES)

(ENGINE STOPS)

I, um, I found a cap

that belonged to my father's old chauffer.

Do you want me to wear it?

(CHUCKLES) Whilst I don't doubt

you'll look dashing in it,

I think you've been quite generous enough!

(TENDER MUSIC)

Oh.

- (GASPS) - (AWWS)

- (FRED) Bravo. - (ALL CLAPPING)

(APPLAUDING)

(SOFT MUSIC)

(LIGHT MUSIC)

(LIPS SMACK)

(RAIN DRIZZLING)

Phyllis? What's this?

You said to me

that bridal attendants should have meaning.

Well, all these little boys and girls were brought into the world by you,

- after you arrived in Poplar. - (LUCILLE SIGHS)

This is Elizabeth,

one of your first deliveries.

And this is Nasreen and Alison...

and this is John...

and this is Kirk,

who needed very special care.

Oh! (CHUCKLES)

I remember all of them.

Their mothers made their outfits.

And every single one of them said they would never forget you.

Oh! (GASPS)

(LIGHT HARP MUSIC)

Who giveth this woman to be married to this man?

I, Cyril Alphonse...

I, Cyril Alphonse,

take thee... Lucille Priscilla,

to be my wedded wife.

To have and to hold from this day forward,

for better, for worse,

for richer, for poorer...

in sickness and in health...

to love and to cherish...

till death us do part...

according to God's holy ordinance.

And thereto...

I plight thee my troth.

I, Lucille Priscilla,

take thee Cyril Alphonse,

to have and to hold from this day forward,

for better, for worse,

for richer, for poorer...

in sickness and in health...

(TONGUE CLICKS, DEEP INHALE) to love, cherish...

and to obey...

till death us do part...

according to God's holy ordinance...

and thereto I give thee my troth.

(REVERAND DUNCAN) The ring, please.

(WARM MUSIC BUILDS)

(CYRIL) With this ring... I thee wed.

With my body...

I thee worship...

and with all my worldly goods...

I thee endow.

In the Name of the Father... and of the Son...

and the Holy Ghost.

(REVERAND DUNCAN) Let us pray.

(CHOIR SINGING "GIVE ME JOY IN MY HEART")

(REVERAND DUNCAN) Those whom God hath joined together

let no man put asunder.

♪ Oh, I pray! ♪

(CHOIR SINGING, CLAPPING IN BEAT) ♪ Give me joy in my heart ♪

- (CHOIR)♪ Keep me praising ♪ - (SOLOIST)♪ Keep me praising, oh ♪

(CHOIR)♪ Keep me praising Till the break of day ♪

(SOLOIST)♪ So, I sing ♪

- (CHOIR)♪ Sing hosanna ♪ - (SOLOIST)Oh, singing

- (CHOIR)♪ Sing hosanna ♪ - (SOLOIST)♪ Hosanna, oh ♪

♪ Sing hosanna To the King of kings! ♪

♪ Sing hosanna, sing hosanna ♪

♪ Sing hosanna to the King! ♪

(SOLOIST)♪ Give me love ♪

(CHOIR SINGING) ♪ Give me love in my heart ♪

- (CHOIR)♪ Keep me serving ♪ - (SOLOIST)♪ Give me love ♪

♪ Give me love in my heart ♪

- (CHOIR)♪ I pray ♪ - (SOLOIST)♪ Oh, I pray ♪

♪ Give me love in my heart ♪

- (CHOIR)♪ Keep me serving ♪ - (SOLOIST)♪ Keep me serving, oh! ♪

♪ Keep me serving Till the break of day ♪

- (SOLOIST)♪ Oh, sing! ♪ - (CHOIR)♪ Sing hosanna ♪

♪ Sing hosanna ♪

♪ Sing hosanna To the King of kings! ♪

♪ Sing hosanna, sing hosanna ♪

♪ Sing hosanna to the King! ♪

(CAMERA SHUTTER CLICKING)

(BRIGHT MUSIC)

(MATURE JENNIFER) Family may be sacred,

but community has a holy dimension of its own.

(CHILDREN GIGGLING)

Blood is never the only thing that binds us.

It is often the ties we choose that have most power.

(CAMERA SHUTTER CLICKS)

(CAMERA SHUTTER CLICKING)

(MATURE JENNIFER) Love connects us all...

like links in the finest chain...

like ribbon around roses.

Ah!

(MATURE JENNIFER) Like the weave of thread...

in a fine, white cloth.

(CYRIL CHUCKLING)

- (SIGHS) - (FLOPS)

(SIGHS)

(MATURE JENNIFER) And so we entwine...

becoming indivisible.

This is the pattern that was meant,

the lace for which the silk was destined.

And stitch by stitch,

we tell our story...

under the gaze of the angels...

and the stars.

(CLOSING THEME MUSIC)