Dangerous Game Hetty Feather

-I do enjoy the park on my day off.

-Perhaps you'd like some company?

I spy an opportunity.

Maybe you could stay here with me.

I could ask cook if she needs extra help in the kitchen.

We'll soon have enough to get to Highgate.

That's where my mother's in service. Her name's Ida.

Miss Smith does not have your experience.

We cannot let outside forces interfere with our methods.

America. A new opportunity.

You're selfish, Hetty, and you never listen.

There are many ways to win a game.

Sometimes you have to be the fastest, the strongest,

or work best as a team.

Well played!

Other times you need to be cunning and smart,

always one step ahead.

As foundlings, we had to use all of these skills to survive,

but without my mother, and now my best friend,

could I ever truly succeed?

Urgh! I'm soaking wet!

Right!

Strip your bed, girls.

Get these buckets under the drips.

By 'eck, I've never seen a storm like it!

Three days and not a single word to each other.

Watch this.

Here, Harriet, let me help you with that.

Oh, no, I can do it.

I don't think you're a baby for not wanting to go to America.

Maybe others would understand if they were your real friends.

Be quiet, Sheila.

Right, girls, to the laundry room. Chop chop.

Feather, report for kitchen duties.

-Just Feather, Miss? What about me?

-Ah, day off for you.

Cook's orders. Seems like she's doing you a favour.

Feather? Hope you're feeling strong.

This way, Harriet.

Nurse Winterson. Just checking in now the bad weather has passed.

Nice of you to think of us.

The rain has freshened up the air no end.

Perhaps you'd care to take a stroll with me this evening?

It's like the building's crying, and we're taking away the tears.

Oh, a parting gift from me.

Please...

What a pretty pin!

Love token from the constable, by any chance?

I've no idea what you're talking about.

-Back to you duties.

-You know, that thing he just gave you.

-Behind your back.

-Nurse Winterson, a word...

-Boys, on your way!

-We need some more buckets, sir.

Nurse Winterson was just handing us the key to the storeroom.

Nurse, could you oversee the clean-up operation in the chapel?

I've important business to attend to, as you can see.

Thank you.

Every last sack removed.

Then we've to log all new stock down.

Deliveries will be coming in thick and fast,

not to mention usual duties.

But this is impossible.

And you gave Sheila the day off.

Stop bleating on.

Keep your head down,

and maybe there'll be something in it for you later.

Now, no more talk.

Get to it.

This was strictly a bit of fun.

Curiosity to see how others afford to set up in the new world.

I know, but, a whole year's wage just for the passage?

No wonder people make do with the old world.

This old world is dying, Mabel.

It is suffocating under ridiculous rules of who we are,

where we come from.

But, clearly even the land of the free

commands an impossible price.

Maybe London's not all that bad, you know?

I'm reading a book at the moment...

SINGING

Who ever is making that ungodly noise

will be spending a weekend in detention!

Oh... Ah!

Dr Bridges.

Welcome to the foundling Hospital. What a pleasant surprise.

Forgive me. Ever since Annabel here heard I was to be working

with foundlings, she's been utterly fascinated.

Is it true I can give them sweets?

Well, that is usually reserved for the Sunday luncheon service.

Oh. I can meet them, though?

Well, if you're lucky, we might spot a few on our tour.

Shall we?

Left a bit. Watch the step.

Everything in order over here?

Aye, Mr Bramble. Salt replacement is all.

This is hard labour, surely?

I'll fetch one of the boys to come and help.

No bother. We've got it in hand.

What? That's ridiculous!

Sorry, I wasn't thinking straight. It's all this hard labour.

In fact, I feel rather dizzy.

I insist. I'll go and fetch one now.

A governor with such medical experience will prove invaluable.

Where are all the foundlings?

You heard matron, they're busy.

But I want to play with them.

Please?

Maybe you and I could play for a while?

That's funny.

You're an old lady.

Enough now, Annabel.

I suppose a few of the foundlings could have an extended recreation.

Yes, get some of the older girls and put them in a room,

where the others can't see, and bring out the box.

The box?

Come on. Keep going.

Clean up.

This can get us anything we want.

Now, I need a volunteer to assist in the kitchen, please?

Um...

Watch this.

Vince has been working hard today.

Maybe he would like to go.

Vince, come along.

Foundlings using the box. I don't know. Whatever next?!

Dining with the governors?

Are these games?

You haven't seen a thing. Now, shoo!

Ida let me and Sheila try lemonade once.

She even let me use a glass.

-Do you miss her?

-Ida?

Aye, she were a good egg.

I miss her so much.

I've fallen out with my friends

and I don't think I've ever felt so lonely.

Aw, all alone with no friends.

Can this day get any worse?

Something I said?

Take all the empty crates to the shed, and stay out of her way.

Is everything going according to plan?

Aye, ma'am, I'll take the delivery to the yard at the arranged time.

Be exact.

There is much at stake.

Remember, you must only deal with one girl.

Hetty Feather.

-Are we in trouble?

-Someone's clearly spent too much time with Feather.

Foundling girls!

Girls, meet Annabel.

Your friend for the day.

You shall play with her.

And you shall never speak of this again.

Understood?

Better get every last bit.

Out of all the boys, they had to send you.

Be quiet, will you?

Why do girls sulk?

It's called being unhappy.

You wouldn't understand. You don't have any feelings.

But sulking won't solve anything. It won't get your friends back.

Try not being miserable for five minutes.

Ever heard of tic tac toe?

I can't believe I'm playing with the foundlings!

Can't she see we're just like anybody else?

Are we? We spend our lives in one building.

We never see the outside world.

How can anyone go to America when all they've known is this?

I wouldn't. They say it's savage.

I've never seen the ocean, let alone crossed it.

You know, everyone wants to leave this place,

but is it really that bad?

I've got a job in the kitchen.

Elizabeth probably will too.

But what if there's more out there?

What if Hetty's right and I'm just too afraid?

And what if you end up in a terrible place all on your own?

-I'll get you next time.

-I never lose.

You're a sore loser, just like my borrowed brother.

Do you miss him?

What about your real mother? You must think about her.

Who doesn't think about their mother?

At least you got to meet yours.

-Ready to lose again?

-Not this time.

As medical adviser, I have a wealth of ideas to modernise this great

-institution.

-Excuse me, matron?

-Doctor.

-Would you mind, Doctor?

Of course.

What is it now?

After an extensive survey, I've come to only one conclusion.

The roof is in danger of collapse.

Can't we just patch up the leaks and put this behind us?

The timbers are rotten.

The storm has merely exposed the problem.

Now, I believe we have a duty to fix this for future generations.

I have estimated some costs, here.

It's a fantastic sum, I know,

but I suggest we launch a major fundraising effort.

I'm more than happy to take control of everything.

No, no, no.

No. You are right.

This is a matter of duty.

I must help in any way I can.

So, I will take care of the tedious financial side, and you...

You shall build us both a magnificent roof.

A draw. That's the closest you're going to get.

We should probably get back to work.

Thanks. I actually feel better.

I thought you might.

You know anything about bargaining tiles with spots on?

I think it's some sort of game.

You mean dominoes?

Jim had a box when we were younger. We used to play for days on end.

Maybe I could teach you how to play when we get out of here.

LOUD VOICES APPROACH

You. Ten minute rec.

Away.

You. More work to be done.

Fine. I'm done sulking.

Do you believe in giving people second chances?

You'd keep out of his way today if you knew what was good for you.

Trust me, Hetty.

This ends now. Give it back.

Well...

I want something else first.

All leaks under control in here?

Where is my tiddlywink gone?

Oh, gosh, what's that in your ear?

You're fun. I'm choosing you.

Annie's busy with the new baby,

so father said a foundling can look after me.

Oh. He wants a children's maid?

You're going to love it. We have so many games to play.

You wouldn't want that, would you?

You're staying here with me, right?

Sounds interesting, though.

Tell me more about where you live.

It's a big house.

I've got my own playroom, and everyone's just so lovely.

Swiped it when Cook wasn't looking.

You wouldn't really want to get Nurse Winterson into trouble,

-would you?

-Not if she does what we say.

But she's always so nice to us. It doesn't seem right.

-They're in the shed.

-Thanks.

I'll see you later, Judd.

Oh, and if you need anything, Nurse Winterson will get it for you.

A very special delivery is on its way.

Go to yard and wait for it. Have a rest till it arrives.

What kind of special delivery?

Eggs.

Eggs?!

-Follow me.

-I can't! I've got to...

-We won't be long!

Come on, I've got a surprise for you.

Come on, Hetty.

I'd like to start by personally welcoming Dr Bridges.

It's an honour to have such an esteemed mind as a governor.

And not a moment too soon.

The outbreak of sickness here...

A problem with food suppliers,

but Mr Cranborne is most keen to discuss the...

I'm sure Dr Bridges would agree,

the health of the foundlings

is more important than saving a few shillings.

Public health is a matter of increasing urgency.

Thank you for your concern, Miss Smith, Doctor.

-I'm sure matron's already dealt with the situation.

-Indeed.

Now, what's this I hear about the roof, Mr Cranborne?

I need your help. I'm not a bad friend,

I just don't want Nurse Winterson to get into trouble.

Judd, slow down, take a breath, and start from the beginning.

I've got something in my eye, girls, I'll...

I'll be a minute.

No funny business.

I'm bored of these games, now.

I know!

Let's soak the old woman.

Maybe that's not a good idea.

Yeah, Harriet's right.

It's not very kind, and someone could get hurt.

Fine! Be boring!

I'll do it myself!

-How did you manage...?

-I have my ways.

So, I line up the pieces like this, yeah?

Hand it over, you snake!

Mathias, what are you doing?!

He's threatening to tell on Nurse Winterson and the constable!

He's blackmailing her with the silver pin.

Mathias? Nurse Winterson and the constable?

I'll tell you later. She could lose her job because of him.

He's lying. He's always had it in for me.

Prove it. Empty your pockets!

-I'm not doing what that idiot says!

-Mathias, just leave him alone!

He's got it. You have to trust me.

I'll be back, soon.

The girl hasn't turned up.

Go back. Stay a few more minutes, and then you'll have to go.

Mr Cranborne and I will oversee the operation.

I am happy to assist raising finances.

A task of this size shouldn't have to be controlled by so few people.

An excellent idea. You have our committed support.

-We should see the damage first-hand.

-Right away, Colonel?

It can be observed from the yard, Mr Cranborne?

Perhaps we could wait a while.

No point in disrupting the meeting.

Well, as you have so kindly offered your assistance, Miss Smith,

it's only right that you should see what we're dealing with first-hand.

-Wouldn't you agree?

-Lead the way, Mr Cranborne.

-Indeed.

Elizabeth, pass me the bucket.

Please, get down, Annabelle.

Oh, you're so dull. You're not coming to live with me.

What do we do? We can't force her.

Yes, we can.

Do I really have to drag you down? It's dangerous.

You can't do that. You'll be shut in the tent if you touch her.

No. She's too scared.

Scaredy-cat, scaredy-cat.

-Get down.

-Get off of me!

I warned you! Now, we're going to have to get you dried.

You three, stay put!

You know, if Mathias was telling the truth, I would give you a chance.

I told you, he was lying.

I'll help you put it right, and we don't have to speak of it again.

But you have to do the right thing.

We could have been friends.

Come on, Hetty.

CRUNCHING SOUND

-Eggs?

-Yeah, I took the delivery this morning.

But I was supposed to take that delivery.

Why is Cook making me wait for a delivery that's already here?

What's so special about...?

The good egg.

Ida!

Stop! Please, stop!

Stop! Please stop the carriage!

Oh! Go round!

Go round.

My girl! I didn't think you'd make it.

We can't be long. It's not safe.

I've missed you so much.

Miss Smith found me.

She told me you gave up a good job to help some other girls.

She wanted to pay back your kindness.

Take me with you, I can leave now.

You can't. But I'll be waiting for you.

And look at me, Hetty. This is important.

-Mr Cranborne, where exactly is this damage?

-Well, first of all...

I heard you've been getting in trouble with matron.

So what? She sent you away.

You must behave.

Matron could punish you by giving you a bad placement,

or sending you miles away where I won't be able to find you.

You promise me.

I promise. I've messed up.

I've made a stupid mistake and I've lost my friends.

Hetty, you need your friends.

You can't do this on your own.

Should we not be inspecting the yard?

And what do we have here?

Leave them be, matron.

Ida Battersby, I suspect.

Arranging a forbidden meetings with foundlings and their mothers.

If you hadn't wrenched the poor girl's mother from her so cruelly...

Colluding with staff!

Hetty will pay for this.

I'll resign.

I'll send a letter of notice in the morning.

On one condition...

Hetty will not be punished.

Please, matron.

Allow a mother to say goodbye to her child.

And you will never set foot here?

Or meddle in the affairs of my hospital again?

My word in exchange for yours.

It's time.

I'll find you when you're out.

Now, remember your promise.

Back to the kitchen now.

Please, Hetty.

Go on.

Dr Bridges, I really must apologise.

I shall see to it that the girl is punished appropriately.

But Annabelle wouldn't listen. She was going to hurt herself.

Nothing untoward was spoken, Matron.

In fact, Elizabeth was firm but fair.

Sir, the two of them were getting on perfectly well up until that point.

Is this true, Annabelle?

No punishment required, matron.

In fact, a friendly, honest girl who isn't afraid to instil discipline...

Sounds like an ideal candidate for a new children's maid.

I understand Elizabeth is due to leave the hospital soon.

That is correct. I'm sure we can agree the details between us.

What?! No, you can't!

This way.

Thank you both!

I won't put a foot wrong again.

If you'd waited as I said, we wouldn't be in this trouble.

I'm going to take some time away from here.

Matron found out?

I'll never be too far away, Hetty.

You can't. This was all my fault.

It was my risk to take.

Keep writing.

It's your gift. It must be nurtured.

See what you've done?

If I'd been at the yard at the right time,

instead of wasting time with you...

You know, I never would have actually got Winston in trouble.

You lost today, Vince.

I'm sorry for calling you selfish.

No, I'm sorry. You're my best friend,

and I should have thought about your feelings.

-I've missed you.

-I'm going to go to America.

-What?

-You have to be brave to be rewarded.

Elizabeth showed me that today.

Plus, I'm not staying here to be the last member of the She Mob.

Tell me about it on the way to the tower.

'Some had succeeded that day.

'Others had lost.

'We knew we couldn't break any more rules,

'because life in the hospital was definitely no game.

'And now that Miss Smith wasn't around,

'who would protect us in the battles to come?'

Fall in!

We've had a theft. A valuable painting, stolen.

We can't part like this.

Oh, why not? Are you planning to visit me?

This is my family. I don't know you.

Gideon, the weight!

-When we're at war and he forgets, I'll have him shot.

-Boys!

I've been called in to solve a crime,

so I won't keep you from your duties.

You're under arrest, sir.

Never trust a coward.