0:00:30 > 0:00:31Morning.
0:00:36 > 0:00:39'By the time I'd been in Poplar for a year,
0:00:39 > 0:00:42'I'd begun to see myself as rather bold.'
0:00:42 > 0:00:44- BICYCLE BELL RINGS - Coming to examine me?!
0:00:44 > 0:00:48'Dank alleys did not frighten me, and neither did their occupants.
0:00:49 > 0:00:51'But did I really take risks?
0:00:51 > 0:00:55'Did I really look beyond the surface,
0:00:55 > 0:00:57'to the darker things beneath?
0:00:58 > 0:01:01'My uniform was my armour.
0:01:01 > 0:01:05'And there was much about the East End that I did not need to know.
0:01:06 > 0:01:08'Much about life I had yet to encounter.
0:01:08 > 0:01:11'It was a safe bet
0:01:11 > 0:01:13'that surprises lay in store.'
0:01:13 > 0:01:16Teddy boys - what a state!
0:01:16 > 0:01:19I know women that spend less time on their hair than they do.
0:01:19 > 0:01:21- Ah, you're just jealous, Fred. - No, I ain't.
0:01:21 > 0:01:22Men are supposed to be men,
0:01:22 > 0:01:26not wasting all their money on Brylcreem and fancy waistcoats.
0:01:26 > 0:01:27It's, er, your go.
0:01:29 > 0:01:30Ruby ready to drop?
0:01:30 > 0:01:32She is.
0:01:32 > 0:01:34I'll have my handsome son by the end of the month.
0:01:34 > 0:01:36Oh!
0:01:36 > 0:01:39Turned into one of those clairvoyants, have you, Dougie?
0:01:39 > 0:01:42She's given me two girls. It's time for a boy.
0:01:42 > 0:01:44- What's the odds?- Dead cert.
0:01:44 > 0:01:47I'll give you 3-1 against.
0:01:47 > 0:01:49- Oh, I'll have a few bob on that! - All right!
0:01:50 > 0:01:52Gin. All boys!
0:01:55 > 0:01:58FRED SIGHS
0:01:59 > 0:02:01BABY CRIES
0:02:01 > 0:02:04MAN: Could you excuse me one moment, please?
0:02:08 > 0:02:10Timothy! What happened?
0:02:10 > 0:02:13We were spinning around at playtime.
0:02:13 > 0:02:14And school let you leave?
0:02:14 > 0:02:18- Somebody should have come with you. - I told them I knew how to get here.
0:02:18 > 0:02:21- You're always at work. - What if I was away on a call?
0:02:21 > 0:02:24- Is everything all right, Doctor? - They just sent him here!
0:02:24 > 0:02:26Why can't they deal with that at school?
0:02:26 > 0:02:29- It's only a graze.- Let me see here...
0:02:31 > 0:02:33Well, I think we're definitely going to need a bandage.
0:02:33 > 0:02:35We should clean it first, though.
0:02:37 > 0:02:39Will you be all right with Sister Bernadette,
0:02:39 > 0:02:40while I finish seeing to my patient?
0:02:40 > 0:02:42You're very kind, Sister.
0:02:42 > 0:02:45Let's get you sat down and we'll have that fixed up in a jiffy.
0:02:48 > 0:02:50Afternoon, Jane.
0:02:52 > 0:02:54BABIES CRY
0:02:55 > 0:02:57Looking forward to tonight, Nurse Lee?
0:02:57 > 0:02:59Oh, yes, it's yonks since I've been to a fair.
0:02:59 > 0:03:02What about you, Jane. Are you excited?
0:03:02 > 0:03:03Yes.
0:03:04 > 0:03:05We can tell.
0:03:07 > 0:03:09They were filthy, the poor loves,
0:03:09 > 0:03:11they looked like bleedin' chimney sweeps.
0:03:13 > 0:03:15All right, Rubes?
0:03:15 > 0:03:17Oh, hello, Joyce, how are you today?
0:03:17 > 0:03:19I'm quite well. How are YOU today?
0:03:20 > 0:03:22Ain't nothing wrong with trying to better oneself.
0:03:22 > 0:03:25Ain't nothing wrong with being what you are, neither.
0:03:25 > 0:03:29- THEY GIGGLE - Well, MY husband has been promoted to supervisor.
0:03:29 > 0:03:31The youngest ever, they say.
0:03:31 > 0:03:33You live on the same street as me!
0:03:33 > 0:03:36Your roof leaks as badly as mine,
0:03:36 > 0:03:38and your backside don't smell of roses, does it?!
0:03:38 > 0:03:40THEY TITTER
0:03:40 > 0:03:43Quite right. It smells of lavender.
0:03:43 > 0:03:46And I'm very sorry to hear about your roof.
0:03:46 > 0:03:48We can recommend a good man.
0:03:51 > 0:03:54DOORBELL RINGS
0:03:56 > 0:03:59- Good evening.- It is, indeed.
0:03:59 > 0:04:01And you must be...Sister Julienne?
0:04:01 > 0:04:03I am. And you are...?
0:04:05 > 0:04:07The Reverend Applebee-Thornton.
0:04:07 > 0:04:10Indeed! Erm, Nurse Noakes sent us a letter.
0:04:10 > 0:04:12Oh, wonderful! Ha!
0:04:12 > 0:04:16Wonderful! Ha... Now, er, I don't wish to be a burden on you,
0:04:16 > 0:04:18I simply couldn't take advantage of your hospitality
0:04:18 > 0:04:20without giving something back.
0:04:20 > 0:04:23Now, I would like to offer chaplaincy to your patients.
0:04:23 > 0:04:26We're very happy to shelter you, until your new parish...
0:04:26 > 0:04:28Chummy spoke so fondly about everybody here.
0:04:28 > 0:04:31What a wonderfully vibrant woman she is.
0:04:31 > 0:04:35The tribes people were thoroughly fascinated on her arrival, you know.
0:04:35 > 0:04:37I don't think they'd seen anything quite like her.
0:04:37 > 0:04:40They refer to her as Boku-Uman,
0:04:40 > 0:04:43which translates as "a lot of woman"!
0:04:43 > 0:04:46Ha-ha-ha! One of the younger men challenged her to a wrestle -
0:04:46 > 0:04:48that fine fellow Noakes, he stepped in - I don't think
0:04:48 > 0:04:50- she's quite recovered since! - Reverend...
0:04:50 > 0:04:54- Y...- A friend of Nurse Noakes is a friend of Nonnatus House.
0:04:54 > 0:04:57I believe your parish lodgings will not be ready for some time.
0:04:57 > 0:05:00- You're welcome, for as long as it takes.- Oh...!
0:05:00 > 0:05:03Would you care for something to eat, before I show you to your room?
0:05:03 > 0:05:07Oh, very kind! I have been regaled with tales
0:05:07 > 0:05:09of Mrs B's prowess in the kitchen!
0:05:09 > 0:05:13I...I dare say that the language barrier will be less of a problem
0:05:13 > 0:05:17with the Cockneys, although I believe this rhyming slang...
0:05:20 > 0:05:22DOOR CREAKS
0:05:24 > 0:05:26How drunk are you, then?
0:05:27 > 0:05:28Oh...
0:05:28 > 0:05:31Not as bad as Christmas.
0:05:31 > 0:05:32You been gambling?
0:05:32 > 0:05:36Gambling?! Ruby, my love, I'm a reformed character!
0:05:36 > 0:05:37Yeah(!)
0:05:38 > 0:05:40I'm saving up to get us out of this pit.
0:05:40 > 0:05:43Then why can I hear the jangling of coins, whenever you move?
0:05:47 > 0:05:50It ain't gambling if you know you're going to win.
0:05:50 > 0:05:52Ha-ha!
0:05:52 > 0:05:54You are a bad man.
0:06:03 > 0:06:05How's my boy doing in there?
0:06:05 > 0:06:06He's tip-top.
0:06:06 > 0:06:09Not much of a mover, unlike the other two.
0:06:09 > 0:06:12He's a cool dude, like that James Dean.
0:06:13 > 0:06:15No need for carrying on, is there, boy?
0:06:15 > 0:06:17(You take it easy in there.)
0:06:18 > 0:06:21I was a lucky girl to land you, Dougie.
0:06:26 > 0:06:28It was a movie kiss, through the wire fence,
0:06:28 > 0:06:31then he went to his plane, a cheeky wink, and he was off!
0:06:31 > 0:06:33THEY LAUGH Jenny's turn!
0:06:34 > 0:06:36We were playing sardines,
0:06:36 > 0:06:39there were six of us squashed into a wardrobe,
0:06:39 > 0:06:43someone kissed me and, to this day, I don't know who it was!
0:06:43 > 0:06:47Well, I do hope I'm not entirely surrounded by harlots!
0:06:47 > 0:06:49- Cynthia? - Well, I knew his name, at least,
0:06:49 > 0:06:52but it was nothing like a movie kiss.
0:06:52 > 0:06:54- I was eight.- Cynthia!
0:06:54 > 0:06:56I will never look at you with the same eyes again!
0:06:56 > 0:06:59- Don't be silly!- Oh, dear Jane,
0:06:59 > 0:07:02you must think us silly girls, to be excited about first kisses.
0:07:02 > 0:07:07- Not at all.- I know, let's name the goldfish after your first kiss.
0:07:07 > 0:07:09- That's a wonderful idea! - Yes, spill the beans, Jane -
0:07:09 > 0:07:11what's our goldfish called?
0:07:11 > 0:07:15- No, I...- It doesn't matter how silly the name is, we'll go with it.
0:07:18 > 0:07:21Well, I'm afraid this goldfish shall be nameless, then.
0:07:36 > 0:07:38CUTLERY CLINKS ON CROCKERY
0:07:56 > 0:07:59Do you think she's all right, Sister?
0:07:59 > 0:08:03Jane is a quiet soul, not one for displaying her emotions.
0:08:03 > 0:08:04It's hard to tell.
0:08:04 > 0:08:07But to have lived her life without so much as a kiss.
0:08:07 > 0:08:10You are speaking to a nun, Trixie.
0:08:10 > 0:08:12Oh, yes, sorry.
0:08:12 > 0:08:16I sympathise, I really do, but as Jane is practically silent around
0:08:16 > 0:08:20her colleagues, the ability to speak to men is probably beyond her.
0:08:22 > 0:08:24Where did Sister Julienne find her?
0:08:24 > 0:08:25That wouldn't be for me to say.
0:08:25 > 0:08:31Good morning, all! Ah, we have a fuller compliment.
0:08:31 > 0:08:33Kushe-o!
0:08:33 > 0:08:35Which means "hello".
0:08:51 > 0:08:55And it is my belief that Nurse Noakes' calling came from
0:08:55 > 0:09:00her humanity, as much as it did the Lord God Almighty.
0:09:00 > 0:09:05Now, the humanity in this lovely bread!
0:09:05 > 0:09:07Oh, we had nothing this fine in Sierra Leone,
0:09:07 > 0:09:12although they do have Cassava Leaf Plassas, which is Chummy's favourite.
0:09:12 > 0:09:14I'll tell you how we make them...
0:09:14 > 0:09:15KNOCKING
0:09:15 > 0:09:17I'll get it.
0:09:22 > 0:09:25LOUD KNOCKING CONTINUES
0:09:25 > 0:09:26She's about to pop.
0:09:26 > 0:09:29Screaming the house down. Told me to bring a midwife, straight away.
0:09:29 > 0:09:32- Phone's buggere-...er, broken. - I'll fetch my things.
0:09:32 > 0:09:34Not so fast. Hello, Douglas.
0:09:34 > 0:09:37- Sister.- I did both of Ruby's girls and they were beauties.
0:09:37 > 0:09:41- But I'm first on call, Sister. - Then you can assist.
0:09:41 > 0:09:43She said to "try and get Sister Evangelina, if you can.
0:09:43 > 0:09:45"She delivers 'em best."
0:09:49 > 0:09:50- Mrs Roberts, Sister.- God speed.
0:09:53 > 0:09:58So, Sister Julienne, which of your charges shall I accompany, hm?
0:09:58 > 0:10:01I promise they will receive exclusive stories in recompense.
0:10:05 > 0:10:08You should accompany me on your first day, Reverend.
0:10:08 > 0:10:10Start at the bottom and work your way up.
0:10:22 > 0:10:23They're 'ere.
0:10:25 > 0:10:27I'll put some more hot water on.
0:10:27 > 0:10:30Good lad. Hello there, Ruby.
0:10:30 > 0:10:32Here we are again!
0:10:32 > 0:10:36Sister, I feel terrible. Look at the state of me.
0:10:36 > 0:10:39It's not a beauty contest, come on. How are you doing?
0:10:39 > 0:10:42- This is Nurse Lee. - Hello, Mrs Roberts.
0:10:42 > 0:10:45This one hurts like hell. No offence.
0:10:45 > 0:10:49No, none taken. There you go, on the edge, that's it.
0:10:49 > 0:10:52They say you forget with time how much it did hurt.
0:10:53 > 0:10:57- Ooh!- All right. There you are.
0:11:01 > 0:11:02That's it! There you go.
0:11:07 > 0:11:08He's early, isn't he?
0:11:08 > 0:11:10When was the last pain?
0:11:10 > 0:11:11Just before you got here.
0:11:20 > 0:11:21Heartbeat's strong.
0:11:22 > 0:11:24I feel scared, Sister.
0:11:25 > 0:11:27All be over soon.
0:11:27 > 0:11:29My old matron used to say
0:11:29 > 0:11:31"You've had your sweets, now take your sours."
0:11:34 > 0:11:38All right. We'll turn her on her side, have a look after this.
0:11:43 > 0:11:47All right keep breathing, keep breathing. That's a girl.
0:11:47 > 0:11:48- It's all right, Ruby.- Good girl.
0:12:00 > 0:12:02That's it.
0:12:09 > 0:12:11I told you it hurt more.
0:12:11 > 0:12:15No one's doubting that now. Baby's crowning, looks a big one.
0:12:15 > 0:12:17They said I was on the small side.
0:12:17 > 0:12:19They can't see what I can.
0:12:19 > 0:12:22Nearly there, Ruby. If Sister can see baby, we're not far away.
0:12:22 > 0:12:25- It hurts!- Not long now.
0:12:28 > 0:12:29It'll be as beautiful as its sisters.
0:12:29 > 0:12:34Now, on the next one, I want you to give us a really big push, Ruby.
0:12:34 > 0:12:37- I'll buy him a blue bonnet. - Baby blue?
0:12:37 > 0:12:40- Yeah, yeah, with little duckies on it.- Lovely.
0:12:43 > 0:12:46Good girl, keep going! Keep going, good girl!
0:12:46 > 0:12:49Really big push. Good girl. Keep going, that's really good.
0:12:49 > 0:12:51- Good girl!- Yes, come on.
0:12:51 > 0:12:54The head's nearly out, we're nearly there now!
0:12:54 > 0:12:56- Wait.- Stop pushing. Short breaths.
0:12:58 > 0:13:02When the next contraction comes, I want you to push hard, all right?
0:13:06 > 0:13:08Good girl! That's it.
0:13:08 > 0:13:13Really big push, Ruby. He's here! He's...
0:13:18 > 0:13:20SILENCE
0:13:32 > 0:13:35- Towel? Nurse! - SHE SIGHS
0:13:39 > 0:13:41See to mother, Nurse Lee.
0:13:56 > 0:14:00BABY CRIES Thank God. Oh, thank God for that.
0:14:10 > 0:14:12Sister?
0:14:12 > 0:14:15Let's have some gauze soaked in boiled water.
0:14:18 > 0:14:20Nurse Lee, damp gauze.
0:14:26 > 0:14:27It's a boy?
0:14:32 > 0:14:35Hey, hey! Daddy's here!
0:14:35 > 0:14:36It's a boy, Douglas.
0:14:36 > 0:14:39- Course he is. I never doubted it. - We haven't quite finished yet.
0:14:39 > 0:14:42- I brought us a drink. - No-one in here yet please, Douglas.
0:14:42 > 0:14:43Oh, he's all right, I want him here.
0:14:43 > 0:14:46I'm sorry, I must insist. The afterbirth hasn't been delivered.
0:14:46 > 0:14:47- The what?- Please, Mr Roberts.
0:14:50 > 0:14:53He's seen worse, after ten years of marriage!
0:14:55 > 0:14:57Let's get you neat and tidy first.
0:14:57 > 0:14:59BABY GURGLES
0:14:59 > 0:15:01I love that sound.
0:15:21 > 0:15:23Placenta successfully delivered, Sister.
0:15:23 > 0:15:25That's good.
0:15:25 > 0:15:27All done?
0:15:27 > 0:15:28Yes, all done.
0:15:34 > 0:15:36Can I get you a glass of water, Ruby?
0:15:37 > 0:15:38What's wrong?
0:15:40 > 0:15:41What's wrong!
0:15:42 > 0:15:46Nurse Lee, would you ring for the doctor now, please?
0:15:49 > 0:15:53What's wrong? Sister Evangelina, what's wrong with him?
0:15:53 > 0:15:57You tell me what's going on right now! What is it?
0:15:58 > 0:16:05Baby's had some complications, Ruby. There's a problem with his back.
0:16:08 > 0:16:11And so I wrapped all the fruit in brown paper
0:16:11 > 0:16:13and used goat's wool as a beard.
0:16:13 > 0:16:16And hey, presto, Christmas in Sierra Leone.
0:16:16 > 0:16:20Of course, the nativity is no real surprise to the tribespeople.
0:16:20 > 0:16:22A child born in a stable seemed perfectly reasonable. PHONE RINGS.
0:16:22 > 0:16:25- I should...- Oh, yes, absolutely.
0:16:38 > 0:16:40I don't believe I've had the pleasure?
0:16:42 > 0:16:44The Reverend Applebee-Thornton.
0:16:44 > 0:16:48- Jane.- Yes. I'm sorry if I startled you.
0:16:48 > 0:16:50Oh, my dear. Oh no, your fish isn't that hungry.
0:16:50 > 0:16:55No, we must rescue the poor fellow, before he eats himself to death,
0:16:55 > 0:16:56like a Roman Emperor.
0:16:58 > 0:17:00Oh, no, no, the scales are too delicate to touch.
0:17:00 > 0:17:02We must scoop him out gently.
0:17:09 > 0:17:13Absolutely ideal. Time is of the essence.
0:17:17 > 0:17:18Yes, thank you.
0:17:28 > 0:17:31And now we need to change the water in the bowl.
0:17:47 > 0:17:49Now, let's put a tad more warm in there.
0:17:49 > 0:17:53Needs to be room temperature, so the little one doesn't die of shock.
0:17:57 > 0:18:00In Sierra Leone, you know, they had sharks in the river.
0:18:00 > 0:18:04Huge beasts, apparently. I was unfortunate never to see one.
0:18:06 > 0:18:08Right. Perfect!
0:18:13 > 0:18:15Apologies, ready when you are.
0:18:36 > 0:18:38It's hydrocephalus -
0:18:38 > 0:18:41water on the brain caused by the break in the spinal cord.
0:18:42 > 0:18:45That's what spina bifida means. It's Latin for...
0:18:50 > 0:18:53We're taking him to the London Hospital.
0:18:53 > 0:18:56The medical advancements in treating this condition
0:18:56 > 0:18:58have come on leaps and bounds over the past few years.
0:18:58 > 0:19:01The surgeons are second to none.
0:19:01 > 0:19:04Your son will receive the best treatment in the world, Mr Roberts.
0:19:06 > 0:19:10See to your ladies. We'll take great care of your son.
0:20:34 > 0:20:37Mr Roberts? One of the girls let me in.
0:20:43 > 0:20:45I'm told baby's doing well.
0:20:45 > 0:20:48He should be ready to come home from the hospital tomorrow.
0:20:52 > 0:20:53How is Mrs Roberts?
0:20:56 > 0:20:57See for yourself.
0:21:05 > 0:21:07Mrs Roberts?
0:21:07 > 0:21:09Nurse Lee. You caught me red-handed.
0:21:10 > 0:21:13You're out of bed.
0:21:13 > 0:21:17Doesn't do no harm to look good, does it? Lifts the spirits, so they say.
0:21:18 > 0:21:20I suppose.
0:21:20 > 0:21:23Can't wallow forever. Things to do.
0:21:26 > 0:21:28I was just telling your husband,
0:21:28 > 0:21:32- baby's doing well. He should be back...- Oh, that's excellent.
0:21:32 > 0:21:34Wonderful news. We'll soon have him back, then?
0:21:34 > 0:21:36That's wonderful.
0:21:43 > 0:21:44'She took it badly at first,'
0:21:44 > 0:21:47but now she seems in very good spirits.
0:21:47 > 0:21:50I remember my first spina bifida birth.
0:21:50 > 0:21:56It looked like a huge dollop of raspberry jam on baby's back.
0:21:58 > 0:22:01Of course, back then, the humane course for treatment
0:22:01 > 0:22:04was considered to be chloral hydrate.
0:22:05 > 0:22:08Let the child pass peacefully.
0:22:08 > 0:22:10- No!- That was when there was little that could be done
0:22:10 > 0:22:13and it was considered a kindness.
0:22:13 > 0:22:15There is much more to be done now.
0:22:15 > 0:22:19But the child will, more often than not, have no bowel control,
0:22:19 > 0:22:22will have renal complications and a drastically reduced lifespan,
0:22:22 > 0:22:25and for the rest of that short life, it will be confined to a wheelchair.
0:22:25 > 0:22:27Life is never without hope, Sister.
0:22:27 > 0:22:29I know it won't be easy for the parents,
0:22:29 > 0:22:32but I'm sure they're capable of coping.
0:22:32 > 0:22:34The mothers don't listen, do they?
0:22:34 > 0:22:38They're told again and again to avoid green potatoes.
0:22:38 > 0:22:41Green potatoes no more cause spina bifida
0:22:41 > 0:22:43as the moon is made of cheese, Sister Monica Joan.
0:22:43 > 0:22:46I read recently it is considered now to be a myth,
0:22:46 > 0:22:50although the actual cause is still unknown.
0:22:50 > 0:22:53Therefore, the moon may yet be edible.
0:22:54 > 0:22:58Good evening, one and all. What a remarkable constitutional.
0:22:58 > 0:23:01A balmy evening by the docks...
0:23:01 > 0:23:03Reverend?
0:23:03 > 0:23:05Oh, thank you, Sister.
0:23:05 > 0:23:08I have important administration to take care of tomorrow,
0:23:08 > 0:23:11so would you be happy to accompany one of our nurses?
0:23:11 > 0:23:14I'm sure any of them would be pleased to have your assistance.
0:23:14 > 0:23:19Well, I've thoroughly enjoyed working with all your charges,
0:23:19 > 0:23:21Sister, I couldn't possibly decide...
0:23:21 > 0:23:22Jane.
0:23:25 > 0:23:28I mean, I believe Jane has rounds in the morning,
0:23:28 > 0:23:32and would benefit from an extra pair of hands.
0:23:32 > 0:23:34Jane?
0:23:37 > 0:23:40That would be delightful, I look forward to it.
0:23:40 > 0:23:42Shall we eat?
0:23:46 > 0:23:49- Are the carrots yours, as well? - Yes, the carrots are...
0:23:49 > 0:23:52DOOR CREAKS
0:23:52 > 0:23:53Here he is, girls.
0:24:17 > 0:24:19Say hello to your brother, then.
0:24:29 > 0:24:31We have to change the dressings every two days
0:24:31 > 0:24:33and keep using this antiseptic.
0:24:37 > 0:24:39What's wrong with his legs?
0:24:44 > 0:24:47Right, come on, little monsters. We'll come back up soon.
0:25:04 > 0:25:07BABY CRIES
0:25:23 > 0:25:26FLIES BUZZ
0:25:35 > 0:25:38- Should I perhaps tidy round a little? Would that be useful?- No.
0:25:40 > 0:25:43Does my house offend you, Vicar?
0:25:43 > 0:25:44Oh, it's Reverend, actually.
0:25:44 > 0:25:49- No, it does not. - Well, it bloody well does, me.
0:25:49 > 0:25:50Ow!
0:25:50 > 0:25:52You hear that? I said it bloody well does, me.
0:25:52 > 0:25:54I've been bitten!
0:25:54 > 0:25:56Be a sweetheart and shove him out the window.
0:25:59 > 0:26:03May I say, I have spent the last year in Africa,
0:26:03 > 0:26:08in a society that did not produce William Shakespeare.
0:26:08 > 0:26:12Nor did it produce Sir Isaac Newton, Isambard Kingdom Brunel...
0:26:12 > 0:26:14I hope there's a point to this.
0:26:14 > 0:26:17Well, we consider ourselves a civilised culture,
0:26:17 > 0:26:21and yet we allow our elderly to live in...
0:26:21 > 0:26:23I'm sorry, I really don't wish to make judgements...
0:26:23 > 0:26:27A flea pit? Surrounded by prossies? Not fit for a dog?
0:26:27 > 0:26:31Well, yes, and it saddens me greatly,
0:26:31 > 0:26:33both as a Christian and as a human.
0:26:33 > 0:26:37At our age, we're grateful for the days.
0:26:37 > 0:26:39Exactly, sweetheart.
0:26:39 > 0:26:44I'll take what pleasure I can, whenever I can get it,
0:26:44 > 0:26:46because we're a long time dead, sir.
0:26:54 > 0:26:56The tribespeople of Sierra Leone,
0:26:56 > 0:26:59they treat their elderly with the utmost respect,
0:26:59 > 0:27:02their wisdom unquestionable, having had the benefit of experience.
0:27:04 > 0:27:06Oh, thank you. Thank you, Jane.
0:27:06 > 0:27:09A remarkable resilience about the Giddings, though.
0:27:09 > 0:27:14Their love - triumphant still, despite the circumstances.
0:27:14 > 0:27:16It swells the heart, does it not?
0:27:16 > 0:27:18'Ere, love's young dream. Hmph!
0:27:29 > 0:27:30Oh, he looks really well.
0:27:41 > 0:27:43I think he may need feeding.
0:27:43 > 0:27:45No.
0:27:47 > 0:27:48He's hungry, Mrs Roberts.
0:27:48 > 0:27:50I ain't got none, it dried up!
0:27:51 > 0:27:52He has powdered.
0:27:52 > 0:27:54All right.
0:27:56 > 0:27:59I'll make up a bottle. Will you hold him?
0:28:02 > 0:28:06- Ruby... - Douglas told me to stop working,
0:28:06 > 0:28:09but I carried on, lifting them baskets.
0:28:09 > 0:28:11I used to rest them on my bump when I was loading up.
0:28:11 > 0:28:14What if that hurt his back?
0:28:14 > 0:28:16Lots of women work.
0:28:17 > 0:28:18You can't blame yourself.
0:28:18 > 0:28:20Why can't I?
0:28:21 > 0:28:22He came out of me like that.
0:28:25 > 0:28:26Or was it God?
0:28:27 > 0:28:29He punishes people, don't he?
0:28:29 > 0:28:32Vanity is one of the deadly sins, they say.
0:28:34 > 0:28:38Maybe it was Dougie's gambling. Didn't Jesus hate all that?
0:28:40 > 0:28:42We did something.
0:28:43 > 0:28:46One of them things made him like that.
0:28:49 > 0:28:50What did we do?!
0:29:00 > 0:29:01I'll feed him.
0:29:34 > 0:29:37Do you have the powdered milk, Mr Roberts?
0:29:46 > 0:29:47Thank you.
0:29:51 > 0:29:54Do you think you could maybe take baby for a walk after he's fed?
0:29:55 > 0:29:58Perhaps you could take the girls?
0:29:58 > 0:30:00He needs sunlight, and it's a lovely day.
0:30:00 > 0:30:02A man doesn't go about pushing prams.
0:30:04 > 0:30:05Perhaps the girls could?
0:30:05 > 0:30:07No.
0:30:07 > 0:30:09They're too young for this.
0:30:09 > 0:30:11Neither of our mums are around anymore. They'd have helped us.
0:30:11 > 0:30:13Of course.
0:30:17 > 0:30:20Would you hold him, while I make up a bottle?
0:30:39 > 0:30:41She even touched him yet?
0:30:46 > 0:30:49Your wife is a little under the weather at the moment.
0:31:03 > 0:31:05No point then, is there?
0:31:09 > 0:31:10DOOR SLAMS
0:31:14 > 0:31:16How are the Roberts, Nurse Lee?
0:31:18 > 0:31:21I think father is capable of seeing it through...
0:31:23 > 0:31:25..but mother has taken it very badly.
0:31:25 > 0:31:27I do sympathise with her.
0:31:27 > 0:31:30She has dreamt of a perfect, healthy child
0:31:30 > 0:31:31since the day she conceived.
0:31:41 > 0:31:44I knew, one day, I would encounter something like this...
0:31:47 > 0:31:49..but I feel so under-prepared, Sister.
0:31:51 > 0:31:54- In what way? - I don't know what to say to her.
0:31:54 > 0:31:57How to help. I don't even know what options are available.
0:32:05 > 0:32:07Serendipity is a wonderful thing.
0:32:09 > 0:32:12You must accompany Jane to St Gideon's.
0:32:12 > 0:32:16Once again, we are much indebted to the Sisters of Nonnatus House.
0:32:16 > 0:32:18The generosity they elicit is astounding.
0:32:21 > 0:32:23Could I ask, Mrs Peacock...
0:32:25 > 0:32:27..how many of your patients, have families?
0:32:27 > 0:32:29All of them, technically.
0:32:29 > 0:32:32We have a number who were abandoned, although that's reducing,
0:32:32 > 0:32:34thanks mainly to you midwives -
0:32:34 > 0:32:38not so easy to abandon a child when a nurse is coming round to visit.
0:32:38 > 0:32:39How could they, though?
0:32:39 > 0:32:42Oh, often the mother feels guilty -
0:32:42 > 0:32:45was it something she did? Was it her fault?
0:32:48 > 0:32:51Can you stay for a cup of tea?
0:32:54 > 0:32:56- I'm terribly sorry...- Cup of tea.
0:32:57 > 0:33:01Oh. No, thank you, we must be leaving soon.
0:33:02 > 0:33:04Hello, Jane.
0:33:04 > 0:33:08You're looking very well.
0:33:08 > 0:33:09Hello, Jacob.
0:33:09 > 0:33:12Away with you, Jacob! I thought I was the only girl for you?
0:33:15 > 0:33:17I'm sorry, I couldn't understand.
0:33:17 > 0:33:20Oh, it comes with time, but don't let it fool you.
0:33:20 > 0:33:23he's as bright as a button and as cheeky as a monkey.
0:33:25 > 0:33:27I have a family, at the moment.
0:33:28 > 0:33:30I imagine their child would do well here.
0:33:31 > 0:33:33Let me make it very clear, Nurse,
0:33:33 > 0:33:36this is a home by name only.
0:33:37 > 0:33:38It is not "home".
0:33:40 > 0:33:42If the child can stay with its family,
0:33:42 > 0:33:45I suggest you do everything in your power to make that happen.
0:33:48 > 0:33:50Yes.
0:33:51 > 0:33:53It's lovely to see you again, Jane.
0:33:54 > 0:33:56Still a chatterbox, then?
0:34:04 > 0:34:06Did you used to work here, then, Jane?
0:34:10 > 0:34:11I was a patient.
0:34:13 > 0:34:15And then I became a trustee.
0:34:18 > 0:34:19I met Sister Julienne here.
0:34:21 > 0:34:22She's been very kind to me.
0:34:31 > 0:34:33I won't say anything to the others.
0:34:38 > 0:34:40Jane, would you say this is an adequate place
0:34:40 > 0:34:41for a child to grow up?
0:34:45 > 0:34:47They would do their best.
0:34:50 > 0:34:53Well, it's been many years since I attended a dance.
0:34:53 > 0:34:55Oh, but you must, Reverend.
0:34:55 > 0:34:57I couldn't bear to see these go to waste.
0:34:57 > 0:34:59I bet you're a wonderful dancer.
0:34:59 > 0:35:00LAUGHING: Oh, yes!
0:35:00 > 0:35:02Quite the opposite.
0:35:02 > 0:35:04What a perfect opportunity to learn, then.
0:35:06 > 0:35:08I'm sure Jane would enjoy herself.
0:35:08 > 0:35:11In fact, I've got the perfect dress for her!
0:35:13 > 0:35:14Ah, well.
0:35:14 > 0:35:18I must confess, it will be a wonderful way to spend the evening.
0:35:18 > 0:35:20Is Jane agreed?
0:35:29 > 0:35:31Why me?
0:35:31 > 0:35:32Erm...
0:35:32 > 0:35:35Well, you work so hard.
0:35:35 > 0:35:37And I believe it will be fun.
0:35:37 > 0:35:40Although, I must confess to not having danced
0:35:40 > 0:35:42for, oh, a number of years.
0:35:42 > 0:35:45I don't imagine that the Waltz is de rigeur.
0:35:49 > 0:35:52Although the, erm, tribesmen, they taught me one of their
0:35:52 > 0:35:55traditional dances and, um...
0:35:55 > 0:35:57I-I won't embarrass you with that, though.
0:35:59 > 0:36:01I'm sorry.
0:36:01 > 0:36:03Please, feel free to decline,
0:36:03 > 0:36:05but I would, however...
0:36:06 > 0:36:09..very much like you to accompany me.
0:36:11 > 0:36:13I'll stop talking now.
0:36:20 > 0:36:22Though I think I could start talking again...
0:36:22 > 0:36:24Yes.
0:36:26 > 0:36:28Yes, thank you.
0:36:31 > 0:36:33Wonderful.
0:36:35 > 0:36:37Wonderful.
0:36:58 > 0:37:00Is that Ruby's baby?
0:37:01 > 0:37:03Or is there something you haven't told us?
0:37:04 > 0:37:07I'm giving Mrs Roberts time to adjust.
0:37:08 > 0:37:11We deliver the babies, Nurse Lee, we don't bring them up.
0:37:11 > 0:37:13Sister Julienne has sanctioned my involvement.
0:37:15 > 0:37:17SHE SIGHS
0:37:36 > 0:37:38CHILDREN PLAYING AND SHOUTING
0:37:38 > 0:37:40Got it!
0:37:44 > 0:37:46Oi, little 'un, is that yours?
0:37:47 > 0:37:49Well, you move it, whatever it is.
0:38:04 > 0:38:07I thought you were Douglas.
0:38:07 > 0:38:09It's not like him to not be back by now.
0:38:12 > 0:38:13Walk with us, Ruby.
0:38:16 > 0:38:20I-I'm not up to it Nurse, please.
0:38:21 > 0:38:23I'm trying, I really am.
0:38:23 > 0:38:25What with Douglas behaving the way he is,
0:38:25 > 0:38:28I'm just beside myself with worry.
0:38:38 > 0:38:40I can't do this for ever, Ruby.
0:38:42 > 0:38:43You have to make headway.
0:38:45 > 0:38:47Just a little for now?
0:38:51 > 0:38:55All I'm asking is that you walk with us.
0:38:58 > 0:38:59Please?
0:39:18 > 0:39:22I do believe you may have left your baby outside, Ruby, dear.
0:39:22 > 0:39:24Not that anyone would want to steal a cripple.
0:39:24 > 0:39:25Get away.
0:39:25 > 0:39:27Wondered why we hadn't seen you for a while.
0:39:27 > 0:39:29Come on, Mrs Roberts, we must dash.
0:39:29 > 0:39:31Oh, she's got her own nurse, as well.
0:39:34 > 0:39:36Not so high and mighty now, is she?
0:39:41 > 0:39:43MUSIC PLAYS FROM INSIDE
0:40:09 > 0:40:11- WOLF WHISTLES - Hello, darling!- Where you been?
0:40:11 > 0:40:13Look, she's going inside. Come on, hurry up!
0:40:13 > 0:40:15You got your comb on you...?
0:40:15 > 0:40:16Ladies.
0:40:16 > 0:40:17What did he say?
0:40:17 > 0:40:20I know women who spend less time on their hair than you lot.
0:40:20 > 0:40:22Now, get out my way.
0:40:22 > 0:40:24- Oi! Drunken idiot!- What?
0:40:28 > 0:40:30- Hold him up! - Yeah, this'll teach you!
0:40:30 > 0:40:32Leave him, leave him!
0:40:32 > 0:40:34Unless you all wish to be tried for murder!
0:40:36 > 0:40:39That's sobered him up a bit.
0:40:39 > 0:40:40Come on, leave him.
0:40:41 > 0:40:44Oh, you poor man. They were like wild animals.
0:40:46 > 0:40:47He's my flesh and blood.
0:40:47 > 0:40:49She's turned her back on my flesh and blood.
0:40:49 > 0:40:53I believe the alcohol may work as an anaesthetic, in this situation.
0:40:53 > 0:40:55It's a small blessing. Come on, up you get.
0:41:47 > 0:41:49DOOR CREAKS OPEN
0:41:51 > 0:41:53DOOR CLOSES
0:41:55 > 0:41:57It's hot.
0:42:08 > 0:42:11I ain't bothered what people think,
0:42:11 > 0:42:13especially not Joyce.
0:42:14 > 0:42:16That isn't it, Nurse.
0:42:16 > 0:42:18I don't want you thinking that it is.
0:42:25 > 0:42:27Then, what is it?
0:42:35 > 0:42:38If I hold him, I think I might die with the sadness.
0:42:49 > 0:42:51I'm sure it'll get easier.
0:42:55 > 0:42:57Try to eat something.
0:43:06 > 0:43:07Why did they save him?
0:43:11 > 0:43:14Doctor said he'll be lucky to see his 16th
0:43:14 > 0:43:18and he'll need all sorts of looking after till then, so...
0:43:18 > 0:43:19why did they save him?
0:43:23 > 0:43:25Life is never without hope.
0:43:39 > 0:43:41This is wonderful news.
0:43:41 > 0:43:43Your parish must be eager to meet you.
0:43:43 > 0:43:45Absolutely, yes, it's a...
0:43:45 > 0:43:48It's a blessing that the building was completed so quickly.
0:43:50 > 0:43:53Nurse Lee, if this is how you are before work,
0:43:53 > 0:43:56I'll be interested to see what state you return in.
0:43:57 > 0:44:00Sorry, Sister, didn't sleep too well.
0:44:00 > 0:44:01May God give you strength.
0:44:04 > 0:44:07Enough to put you off having children, eh?
0:44:07 > 0:44:09Working nights, too?
0:44:09 > 0:44:11I hope the Roberts pay well.
0:44:11 > 0:44:14It's just until the parents come round.
0:44:14 > 0:44:16How's that little miracle going to happen?
0:44:16 > 0:44:21Hmm? And how, pray tell, is you doing everything for the child
0:44:21 > 0:44:22helping the parents?
0:44:24 > 0:44:26Appeasing your own guilt, are you?
0:44:28 > 0:44:29I have no idea what you mean.
0:44:33 > 0:44:35I saw your face when that child was born.
0:44:37 > 0:44:42You were distraught, Nurse Lee, as every midwife has been before you.
0:44:42 > 0:44:45God help us, we're only human.
0:44:45 > 0:44:48But your guilt will not help the mother to bond.
0:44:51 > 0:44:53What will?
0:44:54 > 0:44:57If I knew the answer to that, St Gideon's would be empty.
0:44:59 > 0:45:03Sometimes, you have to admit defeat
0:45:03 > 0:45:05and let the world turn as it must.
0:45:54 > 0:45:56Mrs Roberts?
0:46:02 > 0:46:04What?
0:46:05 > 0:46:07- Look, we're here now.- I can't.
0:46:09 > 0:46:10We're keeping him, then?
0:46:11 > 0:46:12Douglas, don't!
0:46:18 > 0:46:20It's like a train.
0:46:20 > 0:46:22When I say I can't, I can't.
0:46:26 > 0:46:27Wait here.
0:46:33 > 0:46:34It's just me, then.
0:46:52 > 0:46:55- Hello again, Jacob.- Hello.
0:46:55 > 0:46:57She's waiting for you.
0:46:57 > 0:46:58Thank you.
0:46:59 > 0:47:02Did you have a fight with King Kong?
0:47:04 > 0:47:05What did he say?
0:47:05 > 0:47:07Say it again, please, Jacob.
0:47:07 > 0:47:12Did you have a fight with King Kong?
0:47:13 > 0:47:17Oh! No, mate, just, er, half a dozen little monkeys.
0:47:42 > 0:47:45It was in the silences at the dinner table
0:47:45 > 0:47:49that I felt my parents' hatred for each other.
0:47:50 > 0:47:52So, I grew accustomed to filling them.
0:47:55 > 0:47:58I know it can be difficult to bear.
0:47:58 > 0:48:01At boarding school I was often without company.
0:48:05 > 0:48:09I talk, so that I won't know what the silence holds.
0:48:16 > 0:48:18Erm...
0:48:20 > 0:48:22I...
0:48:26 > 0:48:28No matter.
0:48:45 > 0:48:49Sister. I didn't see you in service yesterday, or today.
0:48:49 > 0:48:53I've been keeping up with my offices, whilst on duty, Sister.
0:48:53 > 0:48:54Excellent.
0:48:54 > 0:48:56Doctor Turner came by. He dropped this off.
0:48:56 > 0:49:00He says, his sincerest apologies for being so absent-minded,
0:49:00 > 0:49:03he's been carrying it around for weeks now.
0:49:06 > 0:49:08It's charming.
0:49:18 > 0:49:21We would ask that the parents visit as often as possible.
0:49:21 > 0:49:24The bond needn't be broken, just because the baby's at St Gideon's.
0:49:24 > 0:49:26- JACOB:- ..a cup of tea.
0:49:33 > 0:49:35Mr Roberts, did you hear?
0:49:36 > 0:49:38What happened to him?
0:49:39 > 0:49:41He was born that way.
0:49:43 > 0:49:45Why?
0:49:45 > 0:49:46It happens.
0:49:46 > 0:49:50Approximately, one in a thousand babies are born like Jacob, there,
0:49:50 > 0:49:51or like your child.
0:49:51 > 0:49:53A thousand to one?
0:49:53 > 0:49:54Should've had money on it.
0:49:58 > 0:50:01Thank you, Martin. And Jacob.
0:50:06 > 0:50:08It's not poisoned.
0:50:14 > 0:50:15What's it like here?
0:50:17 > 0:50:21There's a biscuit factory next door.
0:50:21 > 0:50:22Nice.
0:50:23 > 0:50:25We get the broken ones.
0:50:36 > 0:50:38I need to talk to my wife.
0:50:41 > 0:50:43My apologies.
0:50:43 > 0:50:44Mr Roberts?
0:50:44 > 0:50:46I know my Ruby, Nurse, and I like a gamble.
0:50:50 > 0:50:52Right.
0:50:52 > 0:50:55- We'll get back and pack its things.- What?
0:50:56 > 0:50:58The lady says she can take it.
0:50:58 > 0:51:00They're pushed, but they can squeeze it in.
0:51:01 > 0:51:04It's good here, there's a biscuit factory a few doors down.
0:51:13 > 0:51:17REVEREND LAUGHING AND TALKING
0:51:35 > 0:51:37But the nurse was helping.
0:51:37 > 0:51:40Well, no, she weren't supposed to.
0:51:40 > 0:51:43She can't do that for ever, can she?
0:51:43 > 0:51:46No, they should have taken him to the home straight away.
0:51:48 > 0:51:49Right, is that everything?
0:51:54 > 0:51:56I'll take this. You grab it.
0:52:29 > 0:52:31Grab it then.
0:52:38 > 0:52:40He's not an "it".
0:52:41 > 0:52:43What?
0:52:43 > 0:52:45He's not "it"! He's a baby.
0:52:47 > 0:52:49- Yeah?- Yeah, he's my baby boy.
0:52:51 > 0:52:54How could you even think to send him away?
0:52:55 > 0:52:57Yeah.
0:52:57 > 0:52:59What a bastard, eh?
0:53:34 > 0:53:36Change of plan, Nurse.
0:53:36 > 0:53:37I'm sorry?
0:53:37 > 0:53:42Douglas Junior is going nowhere. He's staying right here, with us.
0:53:44 > 0:53:46You look like you could do with a kip, love.
0:53:47 > 0:53:49Are you sure she's all right?
0:53:49 > 0:53:51We're going to be fine. Yeah.
0:53:53 > 0:53:56'It had been the biggest gamble of Douglas Roberts's life.
0:53:56 > 0:53:58'The stakes had been high,
0:53:58 > 0:54:03'but the dividend paid were permanent and beautiful.'
0:54:08 > 0:54:09Reverend?
0:54:09 > 0:54:11Ah, Jane, I'm so pleased you...
0:54:11 > 0:54:13It's my turn to talk.
0:54:20 > 0:54:22I've always been scared.
0:54:22 > 0:54:24As long as I can remember.
0:54:25 > 0:54:29They say I used to sit bolt upright in bed and scream.
0:54:31 > 0:54:33My parents sent me away.
0:54:34 > 0:54:38I don't blame them, but for a long time, I was...
0:54:40 > 0:54:41..away.
0:54:46 > 0:54:49Your stories about Africa are like the picture books brought to life,
0:54:49 > 0:54:52and the way you saved that man outside the dance hall...
0:54:52 > 0:54:54- Oh, you were there? I...- Please.
0:54:56 > 0:54:59Life, for me, is full of fear,
0:54:59 > 0:55:01but I want you to know...
0:55:02 > 0:55:05..I really wanted to come to the dance with you.
0:55:05 > 0:55:07I was too scared.
0:55:09 > 0:55:10I still struggle.
0:55:12 > 0:55:14So...
0:55:15 > 0:55:18..I think you deserve somebody brave.
0:55:23 > 0:55:26I've grown accustomed to the sound of your voice.
0:55:27 > 0:55:29It's strange when you aren't talking.
0:55:32 > 0:55:36You...are so brave.
0:55:45 > 0:55:47Oi! Dougie!
0:55:47 > 0:55:50Long time, old pal. Hello, Rube.
0:55:50 > 0:55:51Hello, Fred.
0:55:53 > 0:55:56'Sometimes in life, one has to take a chance.
0:55:56 > 0:55:59'Without risk, there's no possibility.
0:55:59 > 0:56:02'Without potential loss, no prize.'
0:56:04 > 0:56:07Hello, fella. Hey-hey!
0:56:07 > 0:56:08Blue for a boy.
0:56:08 > 0:56:11- Right.- Oh, it's all right, Fred.
0:56:11 > 0:56:13No, a bet's a bet.
0:56:13 > 0:56:15Handsome young man you got there.
0:56:15 > 0:56:17Three bob.
0:56:17 > 0:56:18We'd better be off.
0:56:21 > 0:56:24'Ere, how about a little tickle on the World Cup final?
0:56:24 > 0:56:26Double or quits? Don't half fancy Sweden.
0:56:26 > 0:56:28He's off the gambling, Fred.
0:56:28 > 0:56:30Yeah?
0:56:31 > 0:56:34- Your loss. See you around, Doug.- Yeah.
0:56:34 > 0:56:37'The Roberts' baby defied all odds...'
0:56:37 > 0:56:39- But, Rubes!- I said no!
0:56:39 > 0:56:43'..and thrived, and was cherished...always.'
0:56:46 > 0:56:50I have concluded that green potatoes are not the culprit.
0:56:50 > 0:56:53And how did you reach this epiphany?
0:56:53 > 0:56:56I had one yesterday and felt perfectly well.
0:56:56 > 0:57:00Huh! For you to have a birth of any kind, my dear,
0:57:00 > 0:57:03it would be a miracle surpassing that of the Virgin Mary.
0:57:06 > 0:57:11'Jane, too, found acceptance in Nonnatus House.'
0:57:13 > 0:57:15'And she found more - she found love.'
0:57:18 > 0:57:24'The name of the goldfish she won at the fair provided proof of that.'
0:57:25 > 0:57:27Hello, there, little one.
0:57:28 > 0:57:31Hello, there, Reverend Applebee-Thornton.
0:57:54 > 0:57:57We thought perhaps the Sisters could have a handicrafts stall
0:57:57 > 0:57:59and organise a baby show.
0:57:59 > 0:58:00A baby show?
0:58:02 > 0:58:03CROWD CHEERING
0:58:03 > 0:58:04Mrs Harding,
0:58:04 > 0:58:07There's only one way you can deliberately terminate a pregnancy.
0:58:07 > 0:58:09And it's against the law.
0:58:09 > 0:58:11That was unforgivable.
0:58:11 > 0:58:14Who is it who decides what is forgivable and unforgivable?
0:58:15 > 0:58:18# Anyhow, that's how I feel
0:58:18 > 0:58:21# Wow, I feel
0:58:21 > 0:58:23# Just like a Pollyanna
0:58:23 > 0:58:26# I should worry
0:58:26 > 0:58:29# Not for nothing
0:58:29 > 0:58:33# Everybody loves me, yes, they do
0:58:33 > 0:58:38# And I love everybody... #
0:58:38 > 0:58:41Subtitles by Red Bee Media Ltd