Original subtitles

A subtitle by R3V0LV3R.

Hyah!

Hyah!

Well, I was hoping to get a kiss from my beautiful wife first.

Hmm.

- Apple pie? - For the apple of my eye.

Owen! Jessica!

Owen! Jessica!

- I'm scared! - It's all right, honey. Hold on tight.

Owen! Jessica!

Mama!

Owen. Jessica.

Are you all right, my dear?

Yes.

Uh, I'm... I'm fine.

Bad dreams?

Oh, where are you going, my dear?

I'm going to go visit my brother and his children for Christmas.

Ah, that sounds lovely.

I find there's nothing better...

than spending Christmas around children.

Do you have any?

No.

Right back in the wagon.

- Morning. - Morning.

Well, good morning, Sheriff Davis.

Morning, Miss Johnson.

Fine morning it is.

Get out of the way!

Watch out!

Hyah!

- Whoa. - Whoa.

Step down off them horses.

Well, we didn't do nothing wrong, Sheriff.

I said step down.

Huh. We didn't mean no harm, Sheriff.

I'm sure you didn't. You're just two young fools.

Having a little fun.

Each of you take off one boot.

- A boot? - A boot.

You finish your business, you can retrieve your boot in my office.

That way I know there won't be no more fancy riding...

between now and then.

But I mean, I can just tell you I won't...

I said now.

Now get.

I wish we never rode into this town.

So, we know the rail road goes to here.

At this point, it either runs up to Evittsville...

or straight across to Haddington.

- So, you think it will come here to Haddington? - Uh-huh.

That's why I need to control all the land along this current route...

as well as the route to Haddington.

I hold the notes on a lot of these properties here.

I need to get those properties back.

It's a big gamble.

Mmm. That's why you're going to find out...

exactly when this rail road man is expected to be here.

- I am? - Mm-hmm.

He'll have the actual plans, the map to the final route.

I need to see them.

Well, don't just stand here, Bersen. Go see what you can find out.

Yes, sir.

Hmm.

- Hi, Pa. - Hey, baby.

- You made good time. - We had to wait for Annabelle. She was real slow.

Was not. I was in the house, waiting on you and Erik.

- What? - Let's not argue. We need to go meet your Aunt Ellie.

- Race you to the stage depot. - I didn't say go. You cheated!

Christopher, you watch over your sister.

Annabelle, I never said go.

Bet you're glad your sister's coming.

- I am. - How's she holding up?

I'm not sure.

Have a wonderful rest of your trip.

Oh, thank you, my dear.

And remember what we talked about.

I will.

El?

Good to see you.

It's good to see you too, Aaron.

Bag of flour right there.

Well, look at the two of you.

Hi, Aunt Ellie.

Christopher Davis...

you are going to be quite a handsome young man.

Annabelle...

is practically a woman.

Come on, El. There'll be plenty of time to catch up on the ride home.

Well, don't just stand there, Christopher.

Grab one of Aunt Ellie's bags. Let's go.

Annabelle, you know the way.

Thank you, sir.

Now, you know you don't have to do that.

Didn't invite you here just to have you cook.

No, it's nice to cook for a family again.

You'll be meeting Erik Johnson in a minute. He's bringing the children in.

- Erik Johnson? - His pa left him in town a few years ago.

Wasn't a good man.

Erik needed a roof over his head, so I took him in.

- He's got a place out in the barn. - That was very nice of you.

He helps me watch over the place, take care of the children.

Ma and Pa would be very proud of you, Aaron.

Mmm.

We're all washed up.

Erik made me wash my hands twice.

'Cause they were all dirty.

- Were not. - Were too.

Hello, ma'am. You must be Mrs. King.

Yes, I am. And you must be Erik Johnson.

Aaron... he's told me all about you.

- It's a pleasure to meet you. - Likewise.

All right, children. Your Aunt Ellie is doing the cooking.

We're setting the table.

You stopped writing.

I know.

You used to write once a month.

Guess I didn't have anything else to say.

When I lost Susan, your letters were one of the things that helped get me through.

You kept reminding me that I still had family that cared.

And shortly after the funeral, Ma and Pa came to visit.

It was the first time Ma and I really talked...

about her first husband, our namesake.

She kept telling me that she was scared.

I recognize some of those things in me.

She told me the same thing.

Gotcha.

All right now. Let's get ready for bed.

Annabelle can go to bed. I don't have to yet.

- Little man... - Yes, Pa.

Would you like it if I read you a bedtime story?

Oh, please. Mama always read to us.

Papa almost never does.

"Though Scrooge pressed it down with all his force..."

he could not hide the light, which streamed from under it...

"in an unbroken flood upon the ground."

And that's the end of the chapter.

So, that will be all for tonight.

You really like Christmas.

In town, they're having a Christmas pageant...

and they're putting up a big Christmas tree.

So big that you can see it from miles away.

All us men are going into the woods to find a giant tree.

And we're going to chop it down.

And we're going to put it up in the middle of town.

That sounds like a lot of fun.

I wasn't just talking to Jessica.

Well, I was hoping to get a kiss from my beautiful wife first.

- Apple pie? - For the apple of my eye.

It's mighty windy, ain't it, Pa?

"Isn't it." And, yes, it is.

What's that sound, Pa?

Owen! Jessica!

Owen! Jessica!

What is it?

Come.

Owen! Jessica!

Papa! Papa, I'm scared!

Owen! Jessica!

Mama!

Mr. Bersen?

Get in here.

- Uh, yes, Mr. Weaver? - Where's that list of delinquent notes you drew up?

Oh, it's, uh, still on my desk in the office, sir.

Well, don't just stand here. Go get it.

Yes, sir.

This is gonna be the best Christmas ever.

Oh, I bet.

Whoa, whoa, whoa.

- Morning. - Morning, Pa.

- Morning, sunshine. - Morning, Papa.

Morning, Son. Morning to you.

Pa, can we go do the Christmas trees now?

All right. You and Christopher go ahead. We'll be there in a moment.

- Pa, I wanna stay with you. - Son, I need you to look after your sister.

- Yes, Pa. - Okay.

I'm gonna run to the general store, get that small keg of nails.

They certainly are darling children.

- Well, you must be Aaron's sister. - Yes, I am.

Ellie, this is the mayor, William Wayne...

and his wife Adrienne and their daughter Suzanna.

- A pleasure to meet you all. - I wanted to introduce myself.

Besides being mayor, I like to think of myself as the welcome wagon around here.

Well, that's very kind of you.

How are you finding things here?

Well, I must say, I think it's wonderful...

how the entire town is choosing to celebrate Christmas.

We're a town that believes in community.

That and the rail road.

- Hmm. - I don't understand.

Well, the rail road may be passing through town.

It was the mayor's idea.

Well, I won't deny that all the Christmas endeavors we've been planning...

will paint the town in a good light.

Anything that'll help build a sense of community...

is gonna help the town grow.

Besides, the children love it. And I do too.

How can we help you, Mr. Johnson?

Uh, sorry to interrupt. I picked up your nails, Mr. Davis.

- Perfect. Put it in the wagon. - Of course.

If you don't mind excusing us...

I'm gonna take Miss Ellie over to the general store, introduce her to Mrs. Thompson.

- There's a splendid idea. - It's lovely to meet you, Ellie.

- Pleasure to meet you too. - Ma'am.

I think you're gonna enjoy Mrs. Thompson.

She kind of reminds me of Mama.

Whoa! Oh, my...

Are you all right?

Oh, I'm fine. I'm fine, thank you. I'm... I'm fine. Do you find this humorous?

- No, that fall kind of saved me an introduction. - Excuse me?

Ellie, this would be my good friend and deputy, Michael Strode.

Michael, this would be my sister, Ellie King.

I've heard a lot about you. It's nice to meet you.

It's nice to meet you too.

And it's nice that you happened to walk by.

You're here for a few weeks, right?

We... At least till Christmas.

Well, I, for one, hope you stay longer.

Your brother was excited about you coming to visit...

so I know he's happy to have you here.

That was very nice of you.

A-And for my part, I always found members of the Davis family...

to be of the best sort.

Don't you have...

some deputy business to be doing?

And it's nice to meet you, Ellie.

Well, he seems like a nice enough fella.

Mm-hmm. Solid as a rock.

A man of character.

I'm not gonna ask you again.

Please, Mr. Weaver.

I just don't have the money right now.

You are behind on your payments, Mr. Perry.

Now it's in your best interest to vacate my property on your own accord.

Well, what about my wife and little boy? This is our home.

Your family is not my problem.

Please.

Either pay up, or pack up and get out.

Or else I'll have to put you out.

Good day, Mr. Perry.

Aaron. Where are the little ones?

They're at Cunningham's, painting Christmas ornaments.

I'm helping with the Christmas play myself.

It's for the Browns' little girl. She's gonna be an angel.

- Well, that'll be something. - I gave your order to that Johnson boy.

- Mmm. Thank you. - You make sure you double-check it.

You never know with that boy.

Mrs. Thompson, I'd like to introduce my sister, Miss Ellie King.

Oh, Aaron has been talking about your visit for days.

I'm Beatrice Thompson. Welcome to my store.

You have a wonderful store.

It belonged to my late husband, Edgar.

When he passed on, I took it over.

And you, Ellie King, are married?

I wa... I was.

I-I lost my husband.

I'm truly sorry.

We better go check on the children.

Since you're going that way anyway...

would you mind taking this paint to Mr. Cunningham?

I believe they were running low.

- Of course. - It was a pleasure to meet you.

You too.

I had to sneak away from Daddy. I can't stay but a moment.

I'm just glad you came at all.

He wouldn't like us visiting like this.

Oh, he... he decided a long time ago he didn't like me.

If your dad knew that I was courting his daughter...

he'd have me run out of town.

Don't be silly.

I should go.

When can I see you again?

I don't know. Soon.

We'll find a way.

You see, when the wood grows, it grows in layers.

- That's called the grain. You always want to... - Mr. Cunningham.

- Sheriff. - Compliments of Mrs. Thompson.

Oh, thank you. That's perfect timing. We're just out of green.

I'd like to introduce my sis, Miss Ellie King.

It's a pleasure to meet you, Mr. Cunningham.

It is wonderful what you've done with the town here.

Well, we're just trying to put a little twinkle in Haddington.

Look, Pa. See how smooth it is?

Yeah. You be careful now. You don't want to get yourself a splinter.

Mr. Cunningham showed us how to sand it.

Soon enough you're gonna be helping your pa build things.

Aunt Ellie, come see.

It's beautiful, Annabelle.

I got some sheriffing to do. I got rounds to make. El?

Stay with me, Aunt Ellie.

Please?

Looks like I'm staying.

Well, y'all have fun.

- Mr. Cunningham. - Sheriff.

Watch where you're walking, boy.

It was an accident. I apologize.

No kidding.

You're that Johnson boy, aren't you? Aren't you? Aren't you?

That was a bit clumsy of me, wasn't it?

- Son, are you hurt? - I'm not hurt.

'Cause...

maybe this one will.

- Why are you doing this? - Why?

'Cause your pa...

stole all my savings out of this bank a few years ago...

and I lost everything.

I had nothing to do with that!

- Mister, please... - No "Mister, please" me.

'Cause me and a lot of folks around here...

are tired of living in this town with you.

Charley.

Release the hammer and hand over that pistol.

You gonna shoot me over this boy?

Not to my liking, but I surely will do so.

All right.

I'll do that.

'Cause I'm a good citizen.

You seem to have a snootful of liquor, Charley.

Yeah. I had a few in that saloon. What about it?

You'll find it nice and comfortable in lockup until you're sober.

Okay.

Children seem to be enjoying you reading their stories at night.

I just passed by to say good night...

but all they seemed to care about was your story.

You know, you should read to them more often.

- Ma would not be happy if she knew you weren't. - That's for sure.

El, something's come up.

I need to leave town for a few days...

go down to the county land office in Evittsville.

Why?

I've been thinking about buying a parcel of land...

just south of the property.

A little stream... good for fishing. Do some more farming.

Allow me to spend more time with Christopher and Annabelle.

That would be nice.

What about being a sheriff though?

I want to be around to see my children grow.

I took the liberty.

Sent a telegram over to the county land office.

Found out there's another party interested.

What is it that you're asking?

I know this isn't the best time for you, but I'd like you...

to stay with Annabelle and Christopher for a few days.

I'll do it.

- You mind doing me a favor? - Anything. You know that.

- I'm going over to Evittsville for a few days. - To buy that land?

Would you mind looking in on Ellie and the children while I'm away?

Consider it done.

I got the old ones down. Uh, I need the new ones.

- You're doing a fine job, Son. - Hammer and nails?

On the desk. Tin cup next to the hammer.

You'll find tacks in there.

Just mind that thumb when you're hammering.

Aw, Pa. I know that.

He's growing up.

Yes, he is.

I enjoyed our conversation, Annabelle.

Papa says I ask too many questions.

Oh, no. You can never ask too many questions.

That's how you learn.

Annabelle Davis. Annabelle Davis, hold up!

Annabelle. Oh... Oh, Annabelle Davis...

Oh, you are perfect. Absolutely perfect.

Well, good morning to you too, Mrs. Wayne.

Oh, I'm sorry. You have to excuse me.

We're just... We're short one child for the Christmas pageant.

The Gellar boy is sick, and we can't have just two wise men, so...

Would Annabelle like to be in the Christmas pageant?

Well, Annabelle, would you like to be a wise man?

- But I'm a girl. - Oh, no, no, that's fine.

I'm-I'm sure his costume will fit you...

and I'm sure the Lord will be fine with a wise woman.

- What do you think, Annabelle? - Oh, can I?

Of course. Now, you go on with Mrs. Wayne, and I will catch up to you.

Wonderful. We'll be in the old meeting hall.

Good.

Well, I guess she found a replacement for the pageant.

I guess. Yeah.

It's really wonderful.

This town is just so full of Christmas spirit. It's quite nice.

I always wanted the town to celebrate Christmas like this.

There's some good people here...

but it took the possibility of the rail road to get 'em inspired.

- Really? - Yeah.

Don't get me wrong. We would've had a little celebration...

but it wouldn't have been anything like this.

Speak of the rail road.

If you'll excuse me, I have someone to greet.

Mr. Hill.

Looks like the man we been expecting's here.

Welcome.

It's a map case he's carrying. Map for the rail road route.

Mayor says our town is on that map.

We're gonna be a boom town.

- Let's go spread the word. - Yes, indeedy.

Who's that Mayor Wayne's talking to?

I think it's someone from the rail road.

The rail road? They're here?

Well, I'm not really sure, but I think so.

Is he gonna be laying out the plans for the town?

Alex Weaver, introduce yourself before you start interrogating the girl.

I apologize for him.

Like a lot of people in this town...

he's obsessed about the rail road.

And owns a lot of land. Always wants to make more money.

I need to be able to spend more time with you.

You need to figure out a way to spend some time with my father...

so he can get to know you better.

I've tried. He just cares nothing for me.

Please. You can't say anything to my pa.

He doesn't know?

You're not gonna say anything, are you?

No.

But perhaps, Erik, you and I, we need to have a talk.

Sure.

Come on.

The note isn't due yet.

But you did read the contract you signed, Mr. Calley.

Oh, I did, in fact, read the entire contract, Mr. Weaver.

I have 90 days from the time you call it in to pay it off.

Mmm. Well, that's right.

As of today, you have 89 days.

But you still won't have the money.

You don't know that.

Mr. Calley, why not make this whole thing easier on all of us...

and just sign the land back over to me right now?

I will not abandon my dream.

Good day, gentlemen.

What if he gets the money and pays off the note...

or decides to sell to the rail road?

That, Mr. Bersen, is not a chance I'm prepared to take.

Yes, sir.

Well, I finished that chore.

I sure wouldn't want to be locked up in a cell.

And I sure wouldn't want you to be.

Where you going?

Walking around town. That's what sheriffs do.

I'm going.

I was thinking about stopping by after the night deputy relieves me.

Really? Why?

Just to see you and the children.

Is that it? I mean, we do spend all day together.

Well, maybe say hello to Annabelle and your sister.

Oh, yes. My sister. Sure. Come on by.

All right, children, I want everybody on the stage.

Let's do this from the beginning. Mary, you're here, you know.

So, you haven't spoken to her parents about how you feel?

Her mom, she's okay.

I wouldn't mind telling her.

But it's her father. He wouldn't like it.

Why do you think he wouldn't approve?

Because of my pa.

Aaron, uh...

told me your pa had to leave you here years ago.

He didn't have to leave me. He abandoned me.

He said I was a burden to him.

I'm sorry.

Don't be.

Your brother's been more of a father to me than my real one ever was.

Has there been any word about your father?

About a year ago, he and a few others, uh...

decided to rob a bank outside of El Paso.

He was killed.

I'm sorry again.

No.

I made my peace with it.

Oh, my gosh.

Honestly, who knew it would be this hard?

Yes, uh...

children in large groups can be very, very difficult.

You know...

you should think about helping with the Christmas Eve celebration.

- You mean the pageant? - Oh, no, no. This is just a small part of it.

There'll be music and all sorts of fun.

Well, that sounds wonderful.

- Thank you. I will think about it. - Good.

And you know what? You should come for dinner tomorrow night.

- Give us a chance to get to know you better. - That sounds lovely.

Good. You bring the entire household.

I will. I look forward to it.

Erik, what brings you here?

I'm-I'm just...

Talking with Ellie.

Okay.

Oh, no, no. No! Peter Martin, what did I say?

No eating straw in the manger. Exactly.

What is wrong with you? Put it down. My God, we're gonna...

- You should come too. - To dinner?

Well, give you a chance to get to know the father.

Give him a chance to get to know you.

Uh, she didn't invite me.

Well, she said the whole household.

What are you doing?

- Afternoon, Mr. Weaver. - Uh, likewise.

Mr. Weaver didn't decorate for Christmas.

- Ah, well, you know that story your Aunt Ellie's reading? - A Christmas Carol.

Yeah, well, Mr. Weaver's more like our town Scrooge.

- Are you funning me? - Maybe just a little.

I have those papers to look over, Mr. Weaver.

Uh, not now. Later.

They've been in there a very long time.

- Who's been where, sir? - Those two.

The man from the rail road and Mayor Wayne.

Thank you so much.

Do you think they've finalized running the rail road through here?

Well, earlier, the man from the rail road was carrying...

what our good mayor is carrying right now.

I'll bet those are the plans.

Think the mayor knows the route of the tracks?

It'll be in the plans, all right.

I don't suppose our good mayor'll tell us till he absolutely has to.

Safe travels, Mr. Hill.

We'll see you soon.

Why don't you just ask the mayor tomorrow? See what he thinks.

Yeah, I'll ask him, all right.

How are you such a phenomenal cook? And your brother is the worst.

And don't say because men can't do it. Men can be as good as women.

I thought you said you were terrible. What's your excuse?

I have three sisters. I never had to learn.

Or you didn't wanna learn.

That too. I'm trying to learn.

Yeah, if it weren't for the caf� in town, this man would starve to death.

Well, maybe you need to find yourself a different teacher.

You think?

Next time you, uh, come over for dinner...

come by a few hours early, and I'll show you a few things.

I'd like that.

Well, so would we, 'cause he can't cook.

Seems like everyone's a critic.

Okay, Erik, perhaps we should change the subject...

and ask when you're gonna finally ask out Suzanna.

Or rather, when you gonna ask her father?

How did you know? Did you tell?

- No, no, no. I-I didn't say a thing. - Oh, come on.

- Everybody knows. - Does the mayor know?

Okay, well, not everybody, but pretty close to it.

Don't worry. I'm sure he won't be asking us to arrest you.

- Ar-Arrest me? - Yeah.

Courting his daughter without his permission. He could have you locked up.

- They can? - Yup.

No. No, that's not true. It's not...

it's not true. You two are the worst.

Don't listen to them. You can't be arrested.

Now come on. I gotta go fetch some water.

- Which one of you strong men would like to help me? - I'll help you.

All right.

All right. Well, sit down. Let's finish up the game.

I think you should arrest him.

- I appreciate your help. - Not a problem.

I always enjoy the company of a lady.

Are you flirting with me, Mr. Michael?

Uh, no, ma'am. Just stating a fact.

So, do you stay in touch with your family?

Uh, they live in Kansas.

It's been a few years since I seen 'em, but we write every once in a while.

Good. Three sisters, you said, right?

Yeah. Always wanted a brother. Aaron seems to fit that bill.

Oh, yeah. He's a... He's a good man.

He is that.

So, do your sisters... Do they have any family?

All three. Married with children.

Oh. So, you're the...

You're the footloose and fancy free one, huh?

My mother keeps writing me and asking me...

when I'm gonna give her grandchildren.

Mothers think about those things.

I know you've had a tough time...

and you need to find your own way.

But you got people here who care about you.

I'm gonna get this water back in the house.

He's all ready, Pa.

Thank you, sir.

You promise to take care of the ladies of the house, right?

Yes, sir.

Which way to Evittsville?

Just over a day's ride in that direction.

- I'll be back before you know it. - All right, Pa.

Well, you think I forgot about my most favorite girl in the world?

Whoa!

Now you be a good girl and you listen to your Aunt Ellie, okay?

I love you, Papa.

I love you too, angel.

Thank you for doing this.

Just remember... you owe me.

So, have you two decided what you want to get your pa for Christmas?

I know what I want to give him.

It's just that...

What?

Could you help me with something?

Course.

I wanna make Pa a handkerchief.

Well, that's very nice of you.

Papa had one Mama made.

He lost it.

It made him sad.

- It had his letter on it. - Letter "A."

I will help you...

but you have to promise me that you'll be careful sewing.

All right. Let's go on inside and get ready for the town.

- What do you want? - Weaver wants you out of here.

Get off Mr. Weaver's property.

- Weaver can't do this. - We shoot trespassers.

I don't know why I did it.

I never should have given in and let them have some of the candy canes.

- Now look at them. - Sugar and children is rarely a good mix.

It'll take forever to get the little angels to calm down.

Little angels?

You go behind there!

I can't call them little devils so close to Christmas, now, can I?

All right, I am going to go tame the wild beasts.

Get it out of your mouth. Now.

Children.

Stop. I need your attention right now.

Ethan, put the baby Jesus back in the cradle.

Here you go.

What are you two doing here?

I wanted to see Annabelle as a wise man.

Call me crazy, but I don't think this is how things were at the birth of our Lord.

Well, you might be right about that.

- Well, hello, good people. - Hello.

Ellie, I understand you're going to join us at the house for dinner.

- Yes, we are. - Wonderful.

Michael, why don't you come as well? The more, the merrier.

Perfect.

Now, I understand that you are quite the rising star, young lady.

- I really like it. - I bet you do.

Now, if you're interested, we'd love to have you come help decorate the house.

Well, we would love to.

Right, you two?

- Yes. - I love decorating.

Well, we should decorate your house.

Surprise your father when he gets home.

Hmm?

Hey, Mayor.

I want to talk with you.

Mercy.

Can we go to the sheriff's office...

so I can work on my present for Pa?

I want to play outlaw and be locked in a cell.

All right. Let's go, you two outlaws.

- See you tonight? - See you tonight.

Well, Mr. Weaver, how can I help you today, sir?

Ah, save your pleasantries. You know what I want.

Oh. Now, it's Christmas. Surely we can be a bit more civil than that.

All right. Start by being civil enough to share with me what that rail road man gave you.

Now, I know he left some plans or... layouts or maps or something.

- I saw you with them yesterday. - No decision has been made.

I'm talking about the plans... what's on them.

He'll be back on the 23rd. We'll have a decision then.

If you can't accept that, I'm sorry. There's not much more I can do.

You could allow me to take a look at the plans.

Good day, Mr. Weaver.

Welcome, everyone.

Mayor. Thanks again for inviting everyone.

One more than I thought.

Oh?

I didn't know the Johnson boy was coming.

Your wife, uh, said to invite the entire household...

and Erik, he's a part of that.

All right then.

If you'd like to help with the pine garland in the barn...

we're gonna decorate the house.

- I want to help decorate. - Me too.

You do?

Well, let's go then.

Whoa.

I found out what you wanted to know.

So, did you get it?

No, sir. I'm a law clerk, not a thief.

Yes?

All right, children. The decorations are over there. See what you can find.

What do you got there, Mr. Mayor?

I should have put these up. They're the rail road plans for our area.

Nobody's supposed to see them until there's a final decision been made.

Not even a peek?

Not even for a lawman.

Have you given any thought to helping with the Christmas celebration?

Yes, I think I would like to help.

But perhaps the children should write letters to Saint Nicholas.

- Letters? - Yes.

They could write letters and tell him what they want for Christmas.

I love it.

William, have you seen Suzanna?

No. I'll go have a look.

Boy, you sure have a lot of decorations.

We've been collecting for a long time. Can you tell?

I'm so glad you could come with the others.

- What do you two think you're doing? - Daddy.

- Mr. Wayne, we were... - Yeah, I know what you're doing.

On my land without my permission.

Erik didn't mean any disrespect.

My daughter is not some strumpet you can have your way with.

I didn't think that, sir.

I... I love her.

You think sneaking around is the way to behave when you're in love?

I'm so disappointed in you.

Get in the house.

- But, Daddy... - Get in the house!

- I'm really sorry, sir. - I don't want to see you around my daughter again.

- Sir, I just... - Get off my land.

- Sir, I just... - Now!

Let's go back in and finish with the decorations.

Mmm. Mmm. Mmm.

You're a mighty good cook, Mrs. Jones.

Thank you.

Much obliged for your hospitality.

Most folk take one look at me and run scared.

Well, I'll admit, when you first rode up, I was a tad bit menaced.

But you being unarmed and all put me at ease.

Yeah. Well, I gotta be going.

Well, you're welcome to share our fire for the night.

Good luck getting to California and finding that dream.

It's mighty cold out. You are welcome here.

Nah, I gotta get.

I understand.

You never told us your line of work.

I rob.

People like you.

I'll be taking that money pouch you both were bragging about.

I am not a patient man.

Give it to him.

Now get up, both of you.

- Now run. - We'll freeze.

Run!

If I ever see you again, I'll kill you!

Mmm. Delicious.

Thank you so much again.

Um, the children, they had a very fine time decorating.

Yes, and I always appreciate a meal...

especially one made by such a great cook.

Oh, thank you.

I apologize if the mood wasn't the epitome of holiday cheer.

No need to apologize, dear. The mood wasn't your fault.

May I be excused?

Please.

Yes.

Well, that was the least pleasant meal I can remember.

Suzanna.

Come here.

What are you doing here? Have you lost your senses?

You heard my father.

He can't stop us if we want to be together. You love me, right?

- I do. - Then come away with me.

I can't.

If you really loved me, you'd come with me.

Don't talk like that.

You gotta have faith.

Have faith in him and in us.

I have to get back inside.

I guess it was a mistake to invite him.

I don't know.

He's a very nice young man, Mr. Mayor.

I'm gonna go outside, walk off some of this food in my belly.

Hey there, you! Stop!

- What is it? - Fire!

- We need to get the horses out of the barn! - Adrienne, the barn's on fire!

- Suzanna, come quick. - Children, you stay in the house.

Come on, Mr. Mayor.

Mother, what are we gonna do?

Go get the extra buckets from the work shed.

Come on. Come on, come on.

Suzanna, bring the extra buckets.

- Hurry. - Yes, Mama.

- The rail road plans are gone. - Mr. Mayor, we got a fire to put out.

Come on.

Well, go and arrest him.

Michael, you're acting sheriff while Aaron's away.

Arrest who?

Who do you think? The Johnson boy.

We all know he was upset, but why would he set fire to your barn?

To get back at me?

No. He wants nothing to do with your rail road plans.

Besides, we saw him leave before the dark.

He was here.

Tonight.

When?

When I went outside just after dinner.

He was waiting in the barn. He wanted to talk to me.

He asked me to run away with him.

Suzanna.

But I told him I couldn't.

I went back inside. He seemed real upset.

When was this?

Just a couple of minutes before the fire.

Let's go get the children, put 'em to bed. I need to find Erik.

Thank you, Deputy.

He's not back there where he sleeps. How about the house?

No. I-I looked.

Ellie, you know I have to find him.

He's the only suspect there is.

Give me your word you will listen to him...

and you won't have your mind made up already.

I want you to understand that, personally, I like Erik.

But if Aaron taught me anything about being a lawman, we are not the judge or jury.

Where do you think that he went?

I just hope he didn't leave town.

If you start running, it's hard to stop.

But if he sticks close to home, maybe we'll see him...

talk him into doing what's right.

It's never too late to make amends.

Good night.

Excuse me.

Can I help you?

I'd like to buy some land.

Well, you've come to the right place.

Why don't you come on over to the map and point to the parcel you want?

Erik.

You weren't here when we got back last night.

I slept out in the woods.

I'm real sorry for starting a problem with the mayor last night.

You didn't go back after the first time you left?

I did. I wanted to see Suzanna.

Didn't go well. She... She left me in the barn.

And then what happened?

I was feeling real bad, so I went to Oak Hollow.

Fell asleep under a tree and stayed there all night.

So, you didn't set fire to the mayor's barn?

A fire? No. Why would I do that?

The mayor, he said he saw you running away from the barn when it was burning.

He's wrong. There was no fire when I left.

We're gonna have to go see Michael.

I didn't do anything. You believe me, don't you?

Lord help me, yes, I believe you.

Erik, I said that I believe you.

Could you at least look into some other possibility?

If I had another possibility or a reason to believe it was someone else...

I'd gladly explore it.

At the moment, I don't.

I know Erik didn't do it.

I'm sorry, Ellie.

Is Erik all right?

He'll be fine.

He just has to stay here for a little while.

Is it 'cause he set fire to the mayor's barn?

Why'd he do that?

Well, I don't think he did.

- Seems dumb. - Yes, it does.

Come on. Shall we go write letters to Saint Nicholas?

Well, what are we waiting for?

Come on, young man. Let's go.

A doll, with long hair Like Mama's, so I can brush it.

Aunt Ellie. Mr. Michael's coming.

Hello, Mr. Michael.

Just in time. We're puttin' up Christmas decorations.

Aunt Ellie made gingerbread men cookies.

Annabelle, Christopher, go on inside.

Pull that trunk into the living room.

Isn't it a little bit too early for supper?

I wanted to come see you.

I meant I wanted to come see how you're getting on.

Since Erik's not here to help out.

Well, I know he didn't set fire to that barn.

I'm still looking at other possibilities.

Ellie, I didn't come here as a deputy checking on you.

I came here as your friend.

Are we putting up decorations or not?

Uh... Join us?

My pleasure.

How you doing?

It's been good...

looking after the little ones these last couple of days.

I know it's a big change compared to just staying at your place alone.

It is.

I have to admit, it was a bit overwhelming.

I'm really happy that I came here.

I'm glad.

Listen.

Pa's keys sound like sleigh bells.

Yes, it does.

Just try not to lose them. Those are Aaron's spare set of skeleton keys.

Skeleton keys?

They unlock every business in town...

in case Pa needs to open a door when it's locked.

Oh, that's very interesting, but perhaps you should put them back to where you found them.

I know you got a bill holder tucked in that belt.

Pull it out.

Easy.

Throw it back here.

Don't even think about pulling that hammer back.

You're a lawman.

Now hold out that pistol and dangle it on a finger.

And if I don't?

I can take you in breathing or hanging over a saddle.

Hyah, hyah. Hyah, hyah.

Hyah!

Hyah.

Hyah!

Hyah, hyah.

Hyah.

Come on. Hyah.

Come on. Get. Get up.

- Hyah, hyah. - Hyah, hyah, hyah.

Up. Hyah, hyah.

Whoa.

I ain't gonna get hung for killing a lawman.

Yes, sir. Night before last to be exact.

Well, if memory serves, we were working here late.

How late?

Is there a reason for these questions?

How late?

Oh, well after dark. Mr. Bersen, do you recall?

Yes, sir, Mr. Weaver. Well after dark.

How well after dark?

Until almost midnight.

Yes, sir. We really burned that midnight oil.

Sorry to have bothered you.

Thank you.

- Erik, try to understand. - I left when Suzanna told me to go.

I didn't start a fire or take some map or something.

Yes, I was mad and, yes, my feelings were hurt.

Of that I'm guilty, but nothing else.

Unfortunately, the mayor said he saw you running away from the barn.

He didn't see me run.

And nobody wants to figure out what happened.

You know... I believe you.

What a beautiful day.

Mmm. Where are the children?

They're at the jail visiting Erik.

Oh. Well, children usually have a good sense of a person.

That's a credit to his character.

Your opinion has changed of him since we first met.

You're, uh... You're the sheriff's sister.

Yes, I am.

I heard he just went to the county land office.

Yes, he did. He was supposed to be home last night.

- We're all a little worried... - In Evittsville, right?

Yes.

Is that land office open through the holidays?

- Well, I have no idea. - Why? You looking to buy more land?

That's not your business.

Good day to you.

There goes one rude, unhappy man.

All right. Start by being civil enough to share with me what that rail road man gave you.

Now, I know he left some plans or... layouts or maps or something.

I saw you with them yesterday.

- No decision has been made. - I'm talking about the plans... what's on them.

Hard to believe the good Lord loves a person like that.

- Is he married? - Oh, goodness, no.

He lives alone in a small apartment.

Here in town?

Attached to his law office.

Shall we have some tea?

"The very lamplighter, who ran on before..."

dotting the dusky street with specks of light...

and who was dressed to spend the evening somewhere...

"laughed out loudly as the spirit passed."

Well, I think that will be all for tonight.

I don't want to go to sleep.

Shh. Christopher.

You said Pa would be home by now.

He's never late.

I know.

But there's probably a very good reason why he's not.

We should go look for him.

Nobody is going anywhere.

Good night.

No.

No.

No.

Oh.

Mr. Weaver?

He's the only person who's shown interest in the map.

So, you think that Weaver set the fire to cover up the theft...

and the maps are in his office.

Shouldn't you talk to the deputy about this?

Michael spoke to Weaver.

He has a witness to where he was that night...

his law clerk.

Who would say anything that Weaver told him to.

You don't mind watching the children until I get back?

My dear, I am glued here until I see the outcome of this adventure.

This is better than a dime novel.

Ellie, you be careful.

You're a damn bounty hunter.

You're worth $300, alive or dead.

I didn't grow old by making mistakes.

Good choice.

Whoa, Buster, whoa.

You know, Buster, this wasn't such a good idea.

I'm sorry. The office is closed.

To be continued.