Episode 2

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0:00:34 > 0:00:39'Our work was birth - the primal act of a woman's life,

0:00:39 > 0:00:42'a time fuelled by instinct and by fear.

0:00:42 > 0:00:46'Trusting our instinct can be what we fear most.

0:00:46 > 0:00:51'Our actions are ours alone, and we must suffer their consequences.'

0:00:51 > 0:00:53Morning, Cyril.

0:00:53 > 0:00:54Doris must be due any day now.

0:00:55 > 0:00:58Ready for those sleepless nights again?

0:00:58 > 0:01:00Bet you thought you were done with them!

0:01:00 > 0:01:01What can I say?

0:01:04 > 0:01:07Well, come on then, lads! Put your backs into it!

0:01:07 > 0:01:09Got another load coming in at nine.

0:01:13 > 0:01:16We've either done something terribly wrong or terribly right.

0:01:16 > 0:01:19Your new hairdo's probably drawn complaints. Far too racy!

0:01:19 > 0:01:22It's modelled on Jean Seberg in The Mouse That Roared.

0:01:22 > 0:01:24Or we've had the record player up too loud

0:01:24 > 0:01:26and Sister Evangelina's not happy.

0:01:26 > 0:01:27Not enough jazz!

0:01:27 > 0:01:29THEY GIGGLE

0:01:29 > 0:01:31SHE KNOCKS

0:01:31 > 0:01:32Come in!

0:01:34 > 0:01:37We've had an awful lot of change lately -

0:01:37 > 0:01:40the move, our new antenatal clinic.

0:01:40 > 0:01:42Our royal visit announced us with some fanfare

0:01:42 > 0:01:44and we're far busier now.

0:01:45 > 0:01:50We need a figurehead, just to steady the ship on clinic days.

0:01:50 > 0:01:52And it feels right it should be one of you.

0:01:53 > 0:01:57All of you brim with invaluable qualities.

0:01:57 > 0:02:01Nurse Franklin, as our most senior midwife...

0:02:01 > 0:02:02I'd be absolutely thrilled....

0:02:02 > 0:02:06You bring a reassuring presence to the wider community

0:02:06 > 0:02:08and I want you to continue with that.

0:02:09 > 0:02:14Nurse Miller, keep forging ahead with our Mothercraft programme,

0:02:14 > 0:02:15for which you show such aptitude.

0:02:15 > 0:02:17Of course, Sister Julienne.

0:02:17 > 0:02:21Nurse Lee, you showed gumption, initiative

0:02:21 > 0:02:23and organisation during our move.

0:02:23 > 0:02:27I'd like you to be our Acting Sister on clinic days.

0:02:27 > 0:02:29Don't quite know what to say.

0:02:29 > 0:02:32That you can start with clinic this afternoon?

0:02:48 > 0:02:51Would have been nice to have been considered, that's all I'm saying.

0:02:51 > 0:02:54"Reassuring presence in the wider community"!

0:02:55 > 0:02:58Makes me sound like a drinking fountain!

0:02:58 > 0:03:00Or a lamp post. Perfectly vital.

0:03:02 > 0:03:05Oh, look at, you, Sister Lee!

0:03:06 > 0:03:08Isn't it Acting Sister?

0:03:08 > 0:03:10Sister will do perfectly well.

0:03:10 > 0:03:12- Are we going to be busy? - Full steam ahead.

0:03:26 > 0:03:28Good afternoon, ladies. Do come in.

0:03:28 > 0:03:29Oh, nice hat, Nurse!

0:03:32 > 0:03:34Hello.

0:03:38 > 0:03:41Mrs Aston? Dr Turner's ready for you.

0:03:41 > 0:03:42The cubicle at this end.

0:03:44 > 0:03:49CHILD ROARS

0:03:49 > 0:03:50Watch it!

0:03:52 > 0:03:54We're low on iodine. Would you mind restocking?

0:03:54 > 0:03:57Oh, and an inventory of the cupboard would be useful.

0:03:57 > 0:04:00We should know exactly what we have at all times.

0:04:00 > 0:04:02It's going to be a tight ship from now on.

0:04:05 > 0:04:07(I rather preferred the loose one!)

0:04:09 > 0:04:11Mrs Short? Midwife will see you.

0:04:22 > 0:04:23How are you sleeping?

0:04:25 > 0:04:27Thomas says I turn like a mangle,

0:04:27 > 0:04:31but that's just cos there's still so much to do, so much to be ready.

0:04:32 > 0:04:35It's round the corner and we still ain't got a potty!

0:04:35 > 0:04:37Mrs Short, baby won't need a potty for a while yet.

0:04:37 > 0:04:40I keep telling him, "It's not going to happen by magic!"

0:04:42 > 0:04:43It's him and me.

0:04:44 > 0:04:46It's us.

0:04:46 > 0:04:50I keep telling him that, but he just don't seem that bothered.

0:04:50 > 0:04:53Perhaps because he thinks you'll make a very good mother.

0:04:54 > 0:04:57My mum always said I'd be a natural.

0:04:57 > 0:04:58But how can you be, though?

0:05:00 > 0:05:02Something as important as this,

0:05:02 > 0:05:04something you've never even done before?

0:05:04 > 0:05:08Your mother knows you better than anyone. Trust her, Mrs Short.

0:05:09 > 0:05:11Look up. Look up.

0:05:15 > 0:05:19They say that if you look up, it stops you from crying.

0:05:22 > 0:05:25I lost Mum. Five months now.

0:05:26 > 0:05:27Only feels like yesterday.

0:05:30 > 0:05:36She said she was going to be there with me and help me.

0:05:39 > 0:05:40But she's not...

0:05:42 > 0:05:45..and I'm all at sea, Nurse.

0:05:45 > 0:05:48You're with us now. We will look after you.

0:05:54 > 0:05:57We need to be careful of anaemia, Mrs Aston.

0:05:57 > 0:05:59And you need to slow down.

0:05:59 > 0:06:01There's not long to go now.

0:06:01 > 0:06:03Cutting hair keeps me sane.

0:06:05 > 0:06:06I can't lose my regulars.

0:06:06 > 0:06:09Took years to build up customers.

0:06:09 > 0:06:11Men wouldn't go near a woman cutter.

0:06:11 > 0:06:15Just like women wouldn't trust a man with their hair till Vidal Sassoon.

0:06:15 > 0:06:17You'll be feeding for several months, Mrs Aston.

0:06:17 > 0:06:18It won't be possible to return to work.

0:06:18 > 0:06:20Well, as soon as it is, then.

0:06:24 > 0:06:27She doesn't seem to realise she's about to have a baby.

0:06:27 > 0:06:32A little complacency is natural. This is her fourth child.

0:06:32 > 0:06:34But we need to make sure she's properly prepared at home.

0:06:34 > 0:06:35Of course, Doctor.

0:06:42 > 0:06:45I have numerous cupboards at home in want of not just a stock-take

0:06:45 > 0:06:47but a good old sort.

0:06:47 > 0:06:48Volunteers will be fed and watered.

0:06:48 > 0:06:50Tell me your cupboards are on the Riviera

0:06:50 > 0:06:51and I'll be there in a trice.

0:06:55 > 0:06:57It's peculiar, isn't it?

0:06:57 > 0:07:01We can be so very organised in our work, yet so chaotic in our lives.

0:07:04 > 0:07:07I found a pair of Freddie's booties in the larder this morning.

0:07:07 > 0:07:10It's only a matter of time before I start using Peter's police helmet

0:07:10 > 0:07:12as a coal scuttle.

0:07:12 > 0:07:15If you need help, please ask.

0:07:15 > 0:07:18- We seem to have a surfeit of olive oil, at least.- Chummy!

0:07:20 > 0:07:22One feels one should be able to manage.

0:07:22 > 0:07:24You do!

0:07:24 > 0:07:28Besides, you promised all volunteers would be fed and watered.

0:07:28 > 0:07:29I'm in it purely for the cakes.

0:07:34 > 0:07:37BELL RINGS

0:07:39 > 0:07:41You checking up on me or something?

0:07:41 > 0:07:43I only saw you this morning.

0:07:43 > 0:07:46Sorry, Mrs Aston. I should have given you our delivery pack.

0:07:46 > 0:07:49It's important it's kept clean, dry and close at hand.

0:07:49 > 0:07:51Shall I take it through to the bedroom?

0:07:51 > 0:07:53BELL RINGS

0:07:53 > 0:07:54Never let up, do they?

0:07:54 > 0:07:56It's quite all right.

0:07:59 > 0:08:01Boys, leave the nurse's bike alone!

0:08:08 > 0:08:12We have a collection of items at Nonnatus to help with

0:08:12 > 0:08:15the baby, should you need anything -

0:08:15 > 0:08:17a pram, perhaps, or a cot?

0:08:17 > 0:08:19I'm all right, ta.

0:08:19 > 0:08:23You're very close now, Mrs Aston. You need to be ready for baby.

0:08:23 > 0:08:25- I said I'm all right, Nurse! - If there's anything...

0:08:25 > 0:08:27I'd see Miss Franklin, wouldn't I?

0:08:27 > 0:08:28We get on, her and me.

0:08:30 > 0:08:32I hope you feel you could see any of us.

0:08:32 > 0:08:34We all want what's best for our patients.

0:08:36 > 0:08:38I dyed her hair the first time.

0:08:38 > 0:08:40Miss Franklin, I mean.

0:08:40 > 0:08:42Walked in as a mouse, left as Jean Harlow!

0:08:42 > 0:08:45- And she swears she's a natural blonde!- That's how good I am, Nurse.

0:08:45 > 0:08:47Yes, and I love her new hairdo.

0:08:47 > 0:08:50Don't be worrying about me. I've had three already.

0:08:50 > 0:08:51I don't need no looking after.

0:09:10 > 0:09:12Very glamorous for a lecture.

0:09:12 > 0:09:14You never know who you'll meet.

0:09:14 > 0:09:16Dusty old academics and midwives like us.

0:09:16 > 0:09:19It's a talk about childbirth!

0:09:19 > 0:09:21Oh, we'd nearly given up on you.

0:09:21 > 0:09:23If we hurry, we should still make it.

0:09:23 > 0:09:27The transformative powers of silk. Day to night in an instant.

0:09:27 > 0:09:30- You can thank me later with a Babycham.- Come on, Sister Lee.

0:09:30 > 0:09:31Time to take your work hat off.

0:09:31 > 0:09:33And put your heels on.

0:09:34 > 0:09:35I'm supposed to be seeing Alec.

0:09:37 > 0:09:38You can blame us.

0:09:40 > 0:09:42- Oh.- I'm sorry.

0:09:42 > 0:09:46He wants to toast my promotion and he'll have already left work.

0:09:46 > 0:09:48Doesn't matter. There's plenty of us going.

0:09:51 > 0:09:53You were lending it to me!

0:09:53 > 0:09:55To be presentable for a lecture,

0:09:55 > 0:09:58not lounging around in some den of iniquity.

0:09:58 > 0:10:00I hardly think a port and lemon

0:10:00 > 0:10:02in the Hand & Shears is cause for concern.

0:10:02 > 0:10:04Besides, goes with my lipstick.

0:10:08 > 0:10:10Have fun. And see you later.

0:10:14 > 0:10:17I hope the baby's not a brother cos they just punch you!

0:10:17 > 0:10:19Hold still, Larry.

0:10:19 > 0:10:21But if the baby's a sister,

0:10:21 > 0:10:23they don't like pear drops,

0:10:23 > 0:10:24so you can eat 'em all.

0:10:24 > 0:10:27And George Hewitt says they smell like Lux.

0:10:27 > 0:10:29Ain't you tired yet?

0:10:29 > 0:10:33Be a sister, be a sister, be a sister! Please!

0:10:33 > 0:10:34Enough now, Larry.

0:10:36 > 0:10:39Come on, lads. Stop jumping on the bed. Come on!

0:10:39 > 0:10:41Look what your old man's got for ya. Eh?

0:10:41 > 0:10:45There you go. Go on, then. Take 'em outside. Go and play.

0:10:45 > 0:10:49Look after the little 'un. I thought haircuts was next month.

0:10:49 > 0:10:51How many did you do today, then?

0:10:51 > 0:10:54Er... five trims and a shave.

0:10:54 > 0:10:57You know no other bird goes round cutting blokes' hair.

0:10:57 > 0:10:59You're making a joke out of me down at the docks.

0:11:01 > 0:11:02Sit down.

0:11:05 > 0:11:06Talk to me.

0:11:07 > 0:11:09About what?

0:11:09 > 0:11:11I don't know. Small talk.

0:11:11 > 0:11:13Cyril, I ain't got no small talk!

0:11:13 > 0:11:15What did you talk to that lot about this morning, then?

0:11:15 > 0:11:17That's nothing. That's just...

0:11:17 > 0:11:18Small talk.

0:11:24 > 0:11:27What was fascinating in these regions was

0:11:27 > 0:11:29the absence of pain during labour,

0:11:29 > 0:11:33primarily because these women did not expect it.

0:11:33 > 0:11:36They gave birth without fear.

0:11:39 > 0:11:44Compare this to our experience of child birth -

0:11:44 > 0:11:46a time of pain and fear

0:11:46 > 0:11:50when a mother's instinct is dwarfed by a well-meaning but patriarchal

0:11:50 > 0:11:54medical profession over-reliant on mechanics and pain-relieving drugs.

0:11:54 > 0:11:56NEEDLE CLATTERS ON FLOOR

0:11:56 > 0:11:59Will someone tell that man to pipe down?!

0:11:59 > 0:12:01It's impossible to concentrate!

0:12:01 > 0:12:03Who is he?

0:12:03 > 0:12:04He's Dr Latham.

0:12:04 > 0:12:07He's carrying on the work of Grantly Dick-Read,

0:12:07 > 0:12:10trying to make birth less frightening.

0:12:10 > 0:12:11..Tightening the uterine muscles...

0:12:11 > 0:12:14Tally ho! Catch him before he goes to ground!

0:12:16 > 0:12:19Tension directly affects delivery,

0:12:19 > 0:12:21causing pain and trauma to

0:12:21 > 0:12:25both mother and child and, dare I say it, their future bond.

0:12:25 > 0:12:28Let us leave the knitting for the duration of the lecture.

0:12:28 > 0:12:31Women's suffering is not confined to birth alone!

0:12:31 > 0:12:34I hope you have a solution for that as well.

0:12:34 > 0:12:36There will be time for questions at the end.

0:12:36 > 0:12:39I should much prefer a lemon puff!

0:12:39 > 0:12:41TRIXIE STIFLES GIGGLE

0:12:50 > 0:12:52You seem different.

0:12:52 > 0:12:53- Oh?- Mm.

0:12:53 > 0:12:56More authoritative, more commanding,

0:12:56 > 0:12:58the way you took control of those crisps.

0:12:58 > 0:13:00Almost as if you've had a promotion.

0:13:00 > 0:13:02I'm hoping you've laid on dancing till midnight

0:13:02 > 0:13:05and a carriage of white horses home. It's the least I expect now.

0:13:05 > 0:13:07I'd hate to disappoint you.

0:13:07 > 0:13:10Just need to get rid of Bill and Ben, the Disarmament Men.

0:13:10 > 0:13:11We're joining the march.

0:13:11 > 0:13:13What march?

0:13:13 > 0:13:14Alec, this is our evening!

0:13:14 > 0:13:15Ten minutes, I promise.

0:13:15 > 0:13:18Must have covered half of London. I could murder a pint!

0:13:18 > 0:13:20And some pork scratchings.

0:13:20 > 0:13:21Students!

0:13:21 > 0:13:24Jenny, meet Bill Corbin and Ben Myles -

0:13:24 > 0:13:25two young men that want to change the world

0:13:25 > 0:13:27without ever buying a drink.

0:13:27 > 0:13:30Boys, I believe I may have mentioned this young woman to you before?

0:13:30 > 0:13:31Only every day.

0:13:36 > 0:13:37So, what kind of march?

0:13:37 > 0:13:40The Campaign for Nuclear Disarmament. We're banning the bomb.

0:13:40 > 0:13:43We're running low, but you're welcome to have it.

0:13:43 > 0:13:45Oh, I couldn't possibly deprive you.

0:13:49 > 0:13:51Dr Latham,

0:13:51 > 0:13:54I have a very anxious primigravida who recently

0:13:54 > 0:13:56lost her own mother.

0:13:56 > 0:13:59I think the idea of giving birth without her is overwhelming.

0:13:59 > 0:14:01Yeah, well, I can see your concern.

0:14:01 > 0:14:04A crisis of confidence at a time mythologised as one of strength,

0:14:04 > 0:14:08especially in a matriarchal society like the East End.

0:14:08 > 0:14:09Ah, the heckler!

0:14:09 > 0:14:12That wasn't heckling or you'd be lying down with a stiff gin.

0:14:12 > 0:14:15The nerve of this plagiarist!

0:14:15 > 0:14:16Lemon puff?

0:14:16 > 0:14:17I don't follow.

0:14:17 > 0:14:21"We become mad and delirious, and fears and terrors assail us.

0:14:21 > 0:14:24"All these things we endure from the brain."

0:14:24 > 0:14:26Hippocrates.

0:14:26 > 0:14:282,500 years before you...

0:14:30 > 0:14:31..approximately.

0:14:33 > 0:14:39Dr Latham, we offer Mothercraft sessions at our antenatal clinic.

0:14:39 > 0:14:43Would you consider discussing your ideas on fear and birth?

0:14:43 > 0:14:44I'd be honoured.

0:14:44 > 0:14:45The East End fascinates me.

0:14:45 > 0:14:49It seems to exist in a world outside of itself - preserved, if you like.

0:14:49 > 0:14:50I think it's called poverty.

0:14:52 > 0:14:55ALEC: Make sure you get all of those out. I'll see you soon.

0:14:58 > 0:15:01The boys literally don't have a home to go to.

0:15:01 > 0:15:04There's about ten of them sharing a bunk in Whitechapel and I'm pretty

0:15:04 > 0:15:08sure supper involves the bread that the park ducks didn't eat.

0:15:08 > 0:15:10You know, I... I think they rather look up to me.

0:15:10 > 0:15:13Which I'm sure you struggle with terribly.

0:15:14 > 0:15:16Alec, I'm tired.

0:15:18 > 0:15:21Your friends are perfectly sweet but I gave up tonight

0:15:21 > 0:15:25with my friends because I wanted to see you, to spend time together.

0:15:27 > 0:15:30A few months ago, I'd have spent night after night orchestrating our

0:15:30 > 0:15:32part in this march. I build things.

0:15:32 > 0:15:35I don't want to see them destroyed.

0:15:35 > 0:15:37And now I'm having to MAKE myself care.

0:15:39 > 0:15:41Truth is,

0:15:41 > 0:15:42it's all gone out the window.

0:15:43 > 0:15:46All I care about is you. It's maddening!

0:15:46 > 0:15:47Do stop talking.

0:15:53 > 0:15:55Where's my carriage of white horses?

0:15:55 > 0:15:58Well, I had a plan B - unicorns.

0:15:58 > 0:16:02- But they're proving unreliable, too. - Mythic creatures always are.

0:16:02 > 0:16:03Aren't they?

0:16:11 > 0:16:13Look after yourselves.

0:16:13 > 0:16:14Right, off you go.

0:16:14 > 0:16:16Bye, Mum.

0:16:48 > 0:16:51Dr Latham calls it "Nature's painkiller".

0:16:51 > 0:16:54Our breathing regulates our emotions and that follows through to birth.

0:16:54 > 0:16:56- Hello!- Morning!

0:16:56 > 0:16:59The blood test results are back from The London.

0:16:59 > 0:17:00Doctor Turner's seen them

0:17:00 > 0:17:02and asks if you'd pass on the good news to Mrs Aston.

0:17:02 > 0:17:04Of course. Thank you.

0:17:05 > 0:17:09Oh, Sister Winifred will take your patients when Dr Latham visits.

0:17:09 > 0:17:10How are preparations going?

0:17:10 > 0:17:14He needs certain items for his class. Fred's collecting those.

0:17:14 > 0:17:18Just hope everyone finds it as fascinating as I do.

0:17:18 > 0:17:20He's fitting us in before he goes to Paris.

0:17:20 > 0:17:22And then he's off to America.

0:17:22 > 0:17:26New York, Paris, Poplar. Not exactly a natural grouping.

0:17:26 > 0:17:28We'll mention it to all our patients.

0:17:28 > 0:17:30First on the list should be Doris Aston.

0:17:30 > 0:17:32There's something very unsettled about her.

0:17:32 > 0:17:35She'd be a lot more relaxed if her husband wasn't such a bully.

0:17:35 > 0:17:38- A bully?- Oh, jealous of any man that looks at her.

0:17:38 > 0:17:40Hates that she works.

0:17:40 > 0:17:42I possibly shouldn't say,

0:17:42 > 0:17:45but Peter's had a few contretemps with him.

0:17:45 > 0:17:48I believe one would certainly call him hot-headed.

0:17:48 > 0:17:49Well, I wish you'd said!

0:17:49 > 0:17:51It might explain why she seems so detached.

0:17:51 > 0:17:54You didn't think to ask. You were too busy being bossy.

0:17:54 > 0:17:57If you call trying to do my job being bossy...

0:17:57 > 0:17:58If the cap fits.

0:18:02 > 0:18:04Perhaps everyone should sign up.

0:18:11 > 0:18:12SHE KNOCKS

0:18:16 > 0:18:17SHE KNOCKS

0:18:19 > 0:18:20Mrs Aston?

0:18:26 > 0:18:29Mrs Aston, there you are!

0:18:29 > 0:18:32Good news on your blood test - the anaemia's under control

0:18:32 > 0:18:34and your blood count's a healthy 11.5 grams.

0:18:34 > 0:18:37Sorry, Nurse. I'm in a hurry. I've got customers waiting.

0:18:37 > 0:18:38Let me help you. Ooh!

0:18:38 > 0:18:41- What have you got in there? The kitchen sink?- Just leave me be!

0:18:41 > 0:18:42Doris, what's the matter?

0:18:42 > 0:18:44I got to go away for a little bit.

0:18:44 > 0:18:45Just down to Brighton for a while.

0:18:45 > 0:18:47Doris, what are you doing?

0:18:48 > 0:18:49I needed that!

0:18:50 > 0:18:52I've got to go!

0:18:52 > 0:18:55You don't understand. He'll finish me off.

0:18:55 > 0:18:57- Has something happened? - I can't have it here.

0:18:57 > 0:18:59Come to the maternity home.

0:19:00 > 0:19:02It ain't his.

0:19:05 > 0:19:08I shouldn't be here. It's very kind of you, but...

0:19:08 > 0:19:10Mrs Aston, we want to be able to help you.

0:19:10 > 0:19:11You can't.

0:19:11 > 0:19:15How can you be so sure about your husband?

0:19:15 > 0:19:16That he's not the father?

0:19:16 > 0:19:18I know.

0:19:18 > 0:19:19It's once in a blue moon.

0:19:19 > 0:19:21And then we...

0:19:21 > 0:19:23We use a rubber.

0:19:23 > 0:19:26I told him it must've leaked. I ain't proud of it.

0:19:26 > 0:19:29What were you going to do, when you got to Brighton?

0:19:29 > 0:19:30Leave the baby.

0:19:31 > 0:19:36Leave him somewhere he'd have nice people, the life I can't give him.

0:19:36 > 0:19:38He'd kill me if I went with any other fella.

0:19:38 > 0:19:43Forgive me, Mrs Aston, but unless you tell him, how would he know?

0:19:43 > 0:19:46He wouldn't be the first man to raise a child who was not his own.

0:19:46 > 0:19:47It ain't that simple.

0:19:47 > 0:19:50I'm not saying it's easy, but in the long run, it may save a lot of pain.

0:19:51 > 0:19:54There's no reason why your husband wouldn't love this child as...

0:19:54 > 0:19:55It's coloured.

0:19:59 > 0:20:00I can't hide it.

0:20:02 > 0:20:04He won't grow to love it.

0:20:04 > 0:20:05Now, do you see?

0:20:06 > 0:20:08What about the father? Can you talk to him?

0:20:08 > 0:20:11It weren't no love story, Nurse.

0:20:11 > 0:20:13God knows what you must think of me!

0:20:15 > 0:20:17My husband can't ever see this baby.

0:20:19 > 0:20:20I can't keep it.

0:20:21 > 0:20:23We can find you a safe place to give birth...

0:20:25 > 0:20:26..and if you mean adoption,

0:20:26 > 0:20:29we can help with arrangements,

0:20:29 > 0:20:32but you must be very sure about this decision.

0:20:33 > 0:20:34It's two lives.

0:20:36 > 0:20:39One with my family and another with...

0:20:47 > 0:20:50I missed the hot water. Again.

0:20:51 > 0:20:54Ice does wonders for the complexion.

0:20:54 > 0:20:57I just wanted a soak in the tub.

0:20:57 > 0:20:58It's been such a day.

0:21:01 > 0:21:02- Trixie?- Hm?

0:21:03 > 0:21:06The hot water's such a bore, isn't it?

0:21:07 > 0:21:10No, I meant the day. It's been terribly difficult.

0:21:12 > 0:21:15Trixie, I'm trying to talk to you!

0:21:15 > 0:21:16Hm?

0:21:16 > 0:21:19Yes, sorry. I'm utterly lost in this.

0:21:19 > 0:21:22Well, I suppose with great responsibility comes great

0:21:22 > 0:21:24sacrifice.

0:21:24 > 0:21:25Shoulders back and all that.

0:21:32 > 0:21:34The smell always reminds me of home.

0:21:34 > 0:21:36My mother was a formidable rose grower.

0:21:36 > 0:21:40Why is it the English are so very good with plants

0:21:40 > 0:21:43and so very poor with people?

0:21:43 > 0:21:45That's a little harsh, Sister.

0:21:45 > 0:21:47Especially as this is a Peace rose.

0:21:47 > 0:21:50I remember my mother telling me about the day it was named,

0:21:50 > 0:21:52the same day Berlin fell.

0:21:53 > 0:21:55"The greatest new rose of our time

0:21:55 > 0:21:59"must be named for the world's greatest desire - peace."

0:22:00 > 0:22:05And yet, here we are with a greater threat -

0:22:05 > 0:22:07the atomic demon!

0:22:07 > 0:22:12"And there followed hail and fire mingled with blood...

0:22:13 > 0:22:16"..and they were cast upon the earth,

0:22:16 > 0:22:19"and the third part of trees was burnt up."

0:22:21 > 0:22:23I've always skimmed Revelation.

0:22:26 > 0:22:27Find it rather grim.

0:22:28 > 0:22:31I simply hoped to bring us a little closer to Nature.

0:22:31 > 0:22:33Well, you are.

0:22:35 > 0:22:37And we are in need of it.

0:22:41 > 0:22:44I mustered as many as I could from the charity box at Nonnatus.

0:22:44 > 0:22:48I've got Dr Latham's accoutrements.

0:22:48 > 0:22:49Very grand.

0:22:49 > 0:22:52- What you doing with all this stuff, anyway?- The art of relaxation.

0:22:52 > 0:22:54It's not for the unwary chap, Fred.

0:22:54 > 0:22:56Or, come to think of it, chaps at all.

0:22:56 > 0:22:59Ignore her. Thank you.

0:23:00 > 0:23:02Oh, how charming!

0:23:02 > 0:23:04We could start having knitting at Mothercraft.

0:23:04 > 0:23:06One can never have enough knitting.

0:23:07 > 0:23:09On second thoughts, perhaps one can.

0:23:10 > 0:23:13I don't think this little chap's quite ready for the world.

0:23:24 > 0:23:29Oh, I must say, this relaxation lark is absolutely top hole.

0:23:33 > 0:23:35She'll think the worst of me.

0:23:35 > 0:23:36Don't be nervous.

0:23:36 > 0:23:40Miss Ellaby's job, as moral welfare worker, is to place baby

0:23:40 > 0:23:43with a family who can provide the life you want for him.

0:23:44 > 0:23:47Miss Ellaby - Nurse Lee, Mrs Aston.

0:23:50 > 0:23:53By the look of things, we should proceed as swiftly as we are able.

0:23:55 > 0:23:57At the Church of England Infant Society,

0:23:57 > 0:24:01we advise a six-week placement in one of our mother-and-baby homes.

0:24:01 > 0:24:04I understand this will not be possible?

0:24:04 > 0:24:07Mrs Aston needs to return to her family as soon as she is able.

0:24:07 > 0:24:11You are aware that children of mixed blood are more difficult to place?

0:24:11 > 0:24:15We will collect from the cottage hospital in Burnham-on-Crouch,

0:24:15 > 0:24:17where we've managed to book Mrs Aston in.

0:24:17 > 0:24:20Where do they take the baby?

0:24:20 > 0:24:22Miss Ellaby, what arrangements do you make from there?

0:24:22 > 0:24:26The child will be fostered until suitable parents are found.

0:24:26 > 0:24:28It never ceases to lift the soul,

0:24:28 > 0:24:31the type of parents willing to take on abandoned children.

0:24:31 > 0:24:34I'm not abandoning my baby!

0:24:34 > 0:24:35I don't have a choice, Miss.

0:24:35 > 0:24:39Isn't it more a case of consequences, Mrs Aston?

0:24:39 > 0:24:42So much less palatable than the actions that led to them.

0:24:42 > 0:24:45Then let us be grateful we are not faced with them.

0:24:45 > 0:24:48And let us feel compassion for those who are.

0:24:50 > 0:24:52We cover all of Poplar,

0:24:52 > 0:24:55and the new clinic means we can provide better care to more women.

0:24:55 > 0:24:58Exactly what the National Health should stand for!

0:24:58 > 0:25:00Good people doing good work.

0:25:00 > 0:25:03Mrs Short? This is Dr Latham.

0:25:03 > 0:25:06Mrs Short is the young woman I mentioned when we first met.

0:25:06 > 0:25:09- Ah.- I don't think I quite have the time today.

0:25:09 > 0:25:12I'll come back. Perhaps next time?

0:25:12 > 0:25:15We may have a lot to thank you for, Mrs Short. Shall we begin?

0:25:15 > 0:25:18Blankets and pillows? I should have brought me nightie!

0:25:18 > 0:25:20I should have brought me old man!

0:25:20 > 0:25:22Good morning, ladies.

0:25:22 > 0:25:25It is lovely to see so many of you here.

0:25:26 > 0:25:30We're pleased to welcome Dr Latham.

0:25:30 > 0:25:32THEY CLAP

0:25:32 > 0:25:33Thank you, thank you.

0:25:33 > 0:25:35Glad to be here.

0:25:36 > 0:25:42I hope to show you that our emotions link directly to our physical being.

0:25:42 > 0:25:44A peaceful mind is a peaceful body,

0:25:44 > 0:25:46and thus to a peaceful birth.

0:25:48 > 0:25:51Birth, the great unmentionable.

0:25:51 > 0:25:54But I want to know your experiences and concerns.

0:25:54 > 0:25:58How women truly think and feel is vital to my work.

0:25:58 > 0:26:02Now, this is your body.

0:26:04 > 0:26:07It's not a miracle that you perform. It's medical.

0:26:08 > 0:26:11You take away the mystery, you take away the fear.

0:26:12 > 0:26:14What will you tell your husband?

0:26:16 > 0:26:17That I'm not well...

0:26:19 > 0:26:21..the anaemia,

0:26:21 > 0:26:23I need to go somewhere I can be looked after.

0:26:26 > 0:26:29And when you come home without the baby?

0:26:32 > 0:26:33That I lost it.

0:26:37 > 0:26:39How can it hurt so much already?

0:26:54 > 0:26:58It was the shock with my first. I mean, no-one tells you, do they?

0:26:58 > 0:26:59Your body's never the same.

0:26:59 > 0:27:01I had forceps. That was a shock.

0:27:03 > 0:27:06If you'd been more relaxed, you'd been less afraid.

0:27:06 > 0:27:09All that oxygen going to your muscles helps them to stretch.

0:27:09 > 0:27:13When I saw the forceps, I couldn't believe they was going inside me.

0:27:13 > 0:27:14Ooh!

0:27:14 > 0:27:18And that reaction, that shudder, is what happens to your cervix.

0:27:18 > 0:27:20It tenses, holds on to baby,

0:27:20 > 0:27:24afraid to deliver it into a world that doesn't feel safe.

0:27:24 > 0:27:27It's a powerful instinct at work.

0:27:27 > 0:27:29But we don't let it flourish,

0:27:29 > 0:27:32nor do we replace it with information.

0:27:32 > 0:27:34Knowledge is power, ladies.

0:27:35 > 0:27:38Um... What are forceps?

0:27:38 > 0:27:40You'll know about 'em if you need 'em.

0:27:40 > 0:27:44Think of medieval torture and you're halfway there.

0:27:44 > 0:27:48Most births are completely normal. Very few require forceps, Mrs Short.

0:27:48 > 0:27:52Well, my mum said having me was no more trouble than sneezing.

0:27:52 > 0:27:54LAUGHTER

0:27:54 > 0:27:57Oh, your mother allowed Nature to take over.

0:27:57 > 0:28:00Remember that when your time comes.

0:28:00 > 0:28:02Right, shall we break for tea?

0:28:09 > 0:28:12Doris is giving her baby up for adoption. Why didn't you tell me?

0:28:12 > 0:28:14It's been so quick.

0:28:14 > 0:28:16There's been time to tell Sister Julienne,

0:28:16 > 0:28:19to get the adoption agency involved. I saw the woman leaving.

0:28:19 > 0:28:23Jenny, this is an enormously hard situation to deal with alone.

0:28:23 > 0:28:26I'm your friend. You would have confided in me before...

0:28:26 > 0:28:29And I wanted to, but you've had such a bee in your bonnet

0:28:29 > 0:28:31about this wretched promotion.

0:28:33 > 0:28:36Doris has to give up her baby because it's black.

0:28:37 > 0:28:40I could have helped you. I've been through this with Ted

0:28:40 > 0:28:41and Winnie Lawson.

0:28:41 > 0:28:44Can you really compare Ted with Cyril Aston?

0:28:45 > 0:28:47How you and I feel doesn't matter.

0:28:53 > 0:28:55It's called a Peace rose...

0:28:58 > 0:29:01..though one feels it has yet to

0:29:01 > 0:29:03fully realise its properties.

0:29:12 > 0:29:14Nurse Miller, you mentioned that you'd read my book?

0:29:14 > 0:29:16Think I know it word for word.

0:29:16 > 0:29:20Good because you are going to lead the relaxation class.

0:29:21 > 0:29:23But they've come to see you!

0:29:23 > 0:29:27Because you persuaded them. Because they trust you.

0:29:27 > 0:29:29I've no magic.

0:29:29 > 0:29:31This is all about instinct.

0:29:31 > 0:29:32Trust yours.

0:29:38 > 0:29:41Well, ladies, if you're comfortable, then we'll begin.

0:29:43 > 0:29:44Lie back.

0:29:45 > 0:29:48Place your hands gently on your stomach.

0:29:49 > 0:29:51Close your eyes.

0:29:51 > 0:29:55Feel your face relax and breathe deeply,

0:29:55 > 0:29:57right into the bottom of your lungs.

0:29:57 > 0:29:58Feel your chest rising.

0:29:58 > 0:30:00Not in this girdle!

0:30:00 > 0:30:03Let go of all your worries.

0:30:03 > 0:30:06Let go of the cleaning, tomorrow's dinner, the washing.

0:30:06 > 0:30:10There's no carrying shopping here,

0:30:10 > 0:30:13just breathing and relaxing each muscle,

0:30:13 > 0:30:14the face, the neck.

0:30:16 > 0:30:19Relax your shoulders as you exhale, Mrs Short.

0:30:19 > 0:30:21Be aware of your ribs moving down as you breathe out.

0:30:24 > 0:30:25And in.

0:30:26 > 0:30:27And out.

0:30:37 > 0:30:38We got company?

0:30:40 > 0:30:43I got to go away for a little while tomorrow.

0:30:43 > 0:30:47I got to be in a special hospital for the baby cos of the anaemia.

0:30:47 > 0:30:49What you on about? What's wrong with ya?

0:30:49 > 0:30:52I told you - the anaemia, makes things difficult.

0:30:53 > 0:30:55How come you never said nothing before?

0:30:55 > 0:30:57I didn't want to worry you.

0:30:57 > 0:30:59Where are you going?

0:30:59 > 0:31:02Out Essex way, in the country.

0:31:02 > 0:31:04For the air and that.

0:31:04 > 0:31:06I can't take no time off of work. Who's going to look after the kids?

0:31:06 > 0:31:08I done you a stew. Mum'll be staying.

0:31:08 > 0:31:11That's the cherry on the top, that is.

0:31:11 > 0:31:13Won't be for long, Cyril.

0:31:13 > 0:31:15And I'm going to be better.

0:31:15 > 0:31:16That's what matters, isn't it?

0:31:20 > 0:31:23- Goodbye. Thank you so much for coming.- Thank you.

0:31:25 > 0:31:28Try and find time each night to practise.

0:31:28 > 0:31:32You'll sleep better and the exercises will become second nature.

0:31:32 > 0:31:34I want that, Miss. More than anything.

0:31:38 > 0:31:41Your patients are in good hands.

0:31:41 > 0:31:42I can't thank you enough for coming.

0:31:42 > 0:31:44The fact that you asked me in the first place

0:31:44 > 0:31:46gives me every hope for the future.

0:31:47 > 0:31:49I shall keep in touch.

0:31:49 > 0:31:53I should like to see how you take on the world, Nurse Miller.

0:31:55 > 0:31:59When you've finished huffing and puffing, we expect every pillow

0:31:59 > 0:32:02and blanket returned in the condition it left Nonnatus.

0:32:03 > 0:32:06And if you're suggesting that a few deep breaths

0:32:06 > 0:32:08and not thinking about what's for dinner is all there is to labour,

0:32:08 > 0:32:11you are leading your patients up the fairy way.

0:32:32 > 0:32:34Told you there was nothing to it.

0:32:34 > 0:32:35Do you mind?

0:32:35 > 0:32:37I'm entering a meditative state.

0:32:41 > 0:32:43I hope you don't need a passport.

0:33:33 > 0:33:35KIDS MAKE AEROPLANE NOISES

0:33:35 > 0:33:37See you after your holiday, then.

0:33:37 > 0:33:38Ain't no holiday.

0:33:40 > 0:33:42Larry? Larry, love?

0:33:44 > 0:33:45I need you to be a big boy.

0:33:45 > 0:33:48Larry, I need you to take the other boys to school.

0:33:59 > 0:34:00KNOCKING ON DOOR

0:34:01 > 0:34:03Doris Aston is in labour.

0:34:03 > 0:34:05I don't think we'll have time to move her to Burnham-on-Crouch.

0:34:05 > 0:34:09It's her fourth child. There's a good chance labour will be swift.

0:34:09 > 0:34:12I'll speak to Miss Ellaby, bring forward arrangements.

0:34:12 > 0:34:13You go to Doris.

0:34:14 > 0:34:17There's no pain like the separation of mother and child.

0:34:17 > 0:34:19You'll need all your strength for Doris.

0:34:35 > 0:34:36SHE KNOCKS

0:34:41 > 0:34:43DORIS PANTS

0:34:45 > 0:34:46DORIS GROANS

0:34:49 > 0:34:52You got to get me away. I can't have it here. I can't!

0:34:52 > 0:34:53I'm afraid you're going to have to.

0:34:53 > 0:34:56No time to move you and baby wants to come.

0:34:58 > 0:35:01Doris, look at me. I'm here, all right?

0:35:05 > 0:35:08That's it! That's it! Good. Push for me!

0:35:08 > 0:35:10Push for me! That's it! Good.

0:35:10 > 0:35:12Keep that going. Keep that going.

0:35:12 > 0:35:16Keep it going, Doris! Good. Good girl! That's really good!

0:35:16 > 0:35:19And now I want you to slow down and pant. Pant!

0:35:19 > 0:35:22DORIS PANTS

0:35:22 > 0:35:26That's it! Good! Good! Slowly, gently. All right?

0:35:26 > 0:35:28Good girl, good girl!

0:35:28 > 0:35:30DORIS SCREAMS

0:35:30 > 0:35:32The head's delivered, Doris!

0:35:32 > 0:35:33I want my baby.

0:35:37 > 0:35:38Doing wonderfully, Doris.

0:35:40 > 0:35:42One more push for me, all right?

0:35:45 > 0:35:47DORIS GROANS

0:35:47 > 0:35:51That's it! You can feel that! Good, good. Good!

0:35:52 > 0:35:59BABY CRIES

0:35:59 > 0:36:00It's a girl.

0:36:00 > 0:36:08BABY CRIES

0:36:16 > 0:36:17There you are.

0:36:24 > 0:36:25My daughter!

0:36:29 > 0:36:31Her fingernails is white.

0:36:39 > 0:36:41I'm going to have to call Dr Turner.

0:36:43 > 0:36:45You've torn. Only a little, but I do need him here.

0:36:47 > 0:36:49When does your husband get home?

0:36:49 > 0:36:50Not till evening.

0:36:52 > 0:36:55Sister Julienne is speaking to Miss Ellaby.

0:36:57 > 0:37:00The adoption has to be brought forward.

0:37:00 > 0:37:04- Do you understand what that means, Doris?- Yes.

0:37:04 > 0:37:06It means I've got till they come.

0:37:13 > 0:37:15Nurse Miller?

0:37:15 > 0:37:18Mrs Short's gone into labour and, according to her husband,

0:37:18 > 0:37:20"She must have Nurse Miller!"

0:37:20 > 0:37:23Get your coat and bag. I'll meet you at the bicycles.

0:37:26 > 0:37:27I'll never forget you.

0:37:29 > 0:37:30Never.

0:37:32 > 0:37:33My beautiful girl.

0:37:36 > 0:37:37Remember me.

0:37:37 > 0:37:39FRONT DOOR OPENS

0:37:40 > 0:37:41That'll be Dr Turner.

0:37:41 > 0:37:43FRONT DOOR CLOSES

0:37:47 > 0:37:48Mr Aston.

0:37:50 > 0:37:51You've had it?

0:37:51 > 0:37:52What are you doing here?

0:37:52 > 0:37:54You shouldn't be here.

0:37:54 > 0:37:57I had this feeling. I... I needed to come back.

0:37:57 > 0:37:58I was scared for you.

0:38:02 > 0:38:04I wanted to tell you. I did.

0:38:04 > 0:38:06- I wanted to tell you.- Tell me?

0:38:09 > 0:38:10What you on about?

0:38:10 > 0:38:13Cyril, please don't do nothing stupid.

0:38:13 > 0:38:14Please come away now, Mr Aston.

0:38:14 > 0:38:15What's the matter with you both?

0:38:15 > 0:38:19There's something wrong with it! Why won't you let me see?

0:38:19 > 0:38:21Mr Aston, your... Your wife needs to rest.

0:38:23 > 0:38:25There was once,

0:38:25 > 0:38:26just once.

0:38:26 > 0:38:30I swear I never looked at another man before him.

0:38:41 > 0:38:42Please, let's go outside.

0:38:45 > 0:38:46You whore...

0:38:48 > 0:38:50- You whore!- My baby! - Please, Mr Aston!

0:38:50 > 0:38:52You went with another man, you bitch!

0:38:52 > 0:38:56I'm sorry, I'm sorry! Cyril, I'm trying to make it right.

0:38:56 > 0:39:00My wife...with a coloured bastard!

0:39:00 > 0:39:02- She's mine! She's mine! - Yeah, well, that ain't mine!

0:39:02 > 0:39:04You leave her alone this instant!

0:39:04 > 0:39:08Now, you go somewhere and you cool off. Do you hear me?

0:39:08 > 0:39:12- Cool off?- Calm down! Because I will call the police, Mr Aston.

0:39:12 > 0:39:13Be in no doubt about that.

0:39:19 > 0:39:20Get rid of it...

0:39:21 > 0:39:23..or I swear I will.

0:39:47 > 0:39:50WHISPERING: So soon? She's only just recovering from the birth.

0:39:50 > 0:39:54- WHISPERING:- And what if Mr Aston should come back tonight?

0:39:54 > 0:39:55We can't take that risk.

0:39:57 > 0:39:59Shelagh and I will look after the baby

0:39:59 > 0:40:02until Miss Ellaby can secure foster parents.

0:40:04 > 0:40:06I don't want to take her baby.

0:40:06 > 0:40:07Nobody wants this.

0:40:09 > 0:40:11But we have to make sure baby is safe.

0:40:12 > 0:40:13And she isn't safe here.

0:40:16 > 0:40:18If you can't, I will.

0:40:32 > 0:40:33Doris.

0:40:40 > 0:40:42I'm so very sorry, but it's time.

0:40:45 > 0:40:46Carole.

0:40:48 > 0:40:50She looks like a Carole, don't she?

0:41:01 > 0:41:03She's very beautiful.

0:41:08 > 0:41:11Doctor Turner and his wife,

0:41:11 > 0:41:13they'll shelter Carole tonight...

0:41:14 > 0:41:17..until Miss Ellaby can make arrangements.

0:41:27 > 0:41:30I need to move Carole to where she can be safe.

0:42:12 > 0:42:14BABY CRIES

0:42:30 > 0:42:34NELLIE GROANS

0:42:34 > 0:42:36Home straights now, Nellie.

0:42:36 > 0:42:37Just going to examine you.

0:42:41 > 0:42:43NELLIE GROANS

0:42:43 > 0:42:44Don't push, Nellie.

0:42:46 > 0:42:48Nurse Miller, what is it?

0:42:48 > 0:42:51Baby's OP and we're only two fingers dilated.

0:42:51 > 0:42:55The pain, Nurse! Something's wrong, isn't it?

0:42:55 > 0:42:58Baby's in a different position, Nellie. That's why you're

0:42:58 > 0:43:01feeling the urge to push. He's pressing on your back passage.

0:43:01 > 0:43:03But you can't push. Not yet.

0:43:03 > 0:43:05Ooh! What does that mean?

0:43:05 > 0:43:07Not the forceps!

0:43:07 > 0:43:11Please! Promise me, Nurse. I don't want no interference.

0:43:11 > 0:43:12Promise me!

0:43:12 > 0:43:15- We'll do all we can to avoid it. - Nurse?

0:43:18 > 0:43:20Don't make promises you can't keep!

0:43:20 > 0:43:23That's the trouble with a little knowledge. It's a dangerous thing.

0:43:23 > 0:43:26We need to get her into the maternity home.

0:43:26 > 0:43:30I want my mum! She promised she'd be here for me.

0:43:30 > 0:43:31Nellie, we're with you.

0:43:31 > 0:43:36Surely we can try and help Nellie give birth the way she wants to?

0:43:36 > 0:43:39NELLIE WHIMPERS

0:43:39 > 0:43:42But she's not doing anything without 100 milligrams of pethidine.

0:43:42 > 0:43:46And if I sense one hint of risk, we're calling Doctor Turner!

0:43:46 > 0:43:48NELLIE WHIMPERS

0:43:48 > 0:43:51Sh! Now, close your eyes, Nellie.

0:43:51 > 0:43:54I'll draw the curtains to make the room more peaceful.

0:43:54 > 0:43:59Take that deep breath and feel it moving through you.

0:43:59 > 0:44:02Now come on. With me.

0:44:02 > 0:44:04Out and in.

0:44:04 > 0:44:06And out.

0:44:06 > 0:44:07And in.

0:44:07 > 0:44:09And out. That's it.

0:44:11 > 0:44:14Surely not! It couldn't be! But that did look like a smile.

0:44:14 > 0:44:16You know, it's probably wind.

0:44:18 > 0:44:20Ooh!

0:44:20 > 0:44:25Now, that was a smile for me! Definitely for me.

0:44:25 > 0:44:29I've held so many babies, helped them with their first breath,

0:44:29 > 0:44:31put them in their mother's arms.

0:44:31 > 0:44:34I want the next baby I hold to be ours.

0:44:34 > 0:44:36I don't want to let go any more.

0:44:38 > 0:44:42You're giving away Cuthbert? You've had him since you were born.

0:44:42 > 0:44:45I want Carole to have him. She can look after him.

0:44:46 > 0:44:48I'm too old for him now.

0:44:48 > 0:44:50I wasn't going to say anything.

0:44:50 > 0:44:52Couldn't she stay?

0:44:52 > 0:44:55There's a family out there who don't have any children.

0:44:55 > 0:44:57They're waiting for her.

0:44:57 > 0:45:00She's going to make such a difference to their lives.

0:45:00 > 0:45:02But what about our lives?

0:45:02 > 0:45:04Oh, I think we're going to be all right.

0:45:07 > 0:45:12NELLIE GROANS

0:45:18 > 0:45:21She hasn't got the strength she'll need to get this baby out.

0:45:21 > 0:45:25It's been seven hours and she's still not fully dilated.

0:45:25 > 0:45:29- This is not right!- Please, Sister! Just a little more time.

0:45:29 > 0:45:32Her mind is calm and her body will start to relax, too.

0:45:32 > 0:45:36- I won't take risks with mother or child.- Neither will I.

0:45:36 > 0:45:40NELLIE SCREAMS

0:45:40 > 0:45:44Feel your chest relaxing and the oxygen coming to your womb.

0:45:44 > 0:45:46Give me strength!

0:45:46 > 0:45:48Just need to see how you're doing.

0:45:48 > 0:45:49NELLIE MOANS

0:45:55 > 0:45:56Fully dilated.

0:45:57 > 0:46:01All right now, Nellie. We need you up because of the position of baby,

0:46:01 > 0:46:04and we need you to push.

0:46:04 > 0:46:05You said not to.

0:46:05 > 0:46:07Now you need to give it some oomph, my girl!

0:46:07 > 0:46:10And it helps if you pull against something.

0:46:10 > 0:46:12And that something is me.

0:46:13 > 0:46:15Yes! Come on!

0:46:15 > 0:46:16NELLIE SCREAMS

0:46:20 > 0:46:22Nana says we mustn't say nothing.

0:46:24 > 0:46:25Is she in heaven, Mum?

0:46:27 > 0:46:29Larry, give me a cuddle, please.

0:46:31 > 0:46:33One day we'll get a sister,

0:46:33 > 0:46:34won't we, Mum?

0:46:38 > 0:46:41NELLIE GROANS

0:46:43 > 0:46:46Think of each contraction as your womb taking a breath,

0:46:46 > 0:46:48breathing your baby down towards the birth canal.

0:46:50 > 0:46:52We're nearly there, Nellie.

0:46:52 > 0:46:54Keep going!

0:46:54 > 0:46:56Come on now!

0:46:56 > 0:46:58This goes on much longer, she'll be past the point of pushing.

0:47:00 > 0:47:02Nellie? Nellie?

0:47:02 > 0:47:04What would your mother tell you to do?

0:47:13 > 0:47:17That's it! That's it!

0:47:17 > 0:47:18Big push!

0:47:20 > 0:47:22Now, pant now, Nellie. Pant, pant, pant!

0:47:22 > 0:47:25NELLIE PANTS

0:47:25 > 0:47:27- Head is born.- Sunny side up!

0:47:30 > 0:47:33All right now, Nellie. Now, one more big push!

0:47:38 > 0:47:40NELLIE SCREAMS

0:47:40 > 0:47:44BABY CRIES

0:47:48 > 0:47:50It's a boy.

0:47:50 > 0:47:57BABY CRIES

0:47:57 > 0:48:00You wanted to see the world straight away, didn't you, little one?

0:48:02 > 0:48:03Cos you're brave...

0:48:05 > 0:48:07..just like your mum.

0:48:07 > 0:48:15BABY CRIES

0:48:21 > 0:48:22You did it, Nellie.

0:48:24 > 0:48:25Well done.

0:48:31 > 0:48:33Thank you.

0:48:34 > 0:48:35For everything.

0:48:41 > 0:48:42I love you, Mum.

0:48:51 > 0:48:56I never thought I'd say this, but I'm glad you didn't listen to me.

0:48:56 > 0:48:59You should be proud of yourself, Nurse Miller.

0:48:59 > 0:49:03You did it your own way, a new way, and you were right to.

0:49:04 > 0:49:05Thank you.

0:49:07 > 0:49:09Oh, I shall sleep well tonight.

0:49:11 > 0:49:13In.

0:49:13 > 0:49:14And out.

0:49:14 > 0:49:17THEY LAUGH

0:49:17 > 0:49:18And in.

0:49:22 > 0:49:23Any tenderness?

0:49:33 > 0:49:35Anything?

0:49:43 > 0:49:44Everything's normal, Doris.

0:49:48 > 0:49:51I brought you some Epsom Salts

0:49:51 > 0:49:54to help dry up your milk when it comes.

0:49:56 > 0:49:58Milk's all I got to remember her by.

0:50:03 > 0:50:05Will you help me?

0:50:05 > 0:50:06Course I will.

0:50:11 > 0:50:13She's got nothing to remember me by.

0:50:15 > 0:50:19I'm her mother but she's never going to know that.

0:50:22 > 0:50:24So, I wrote a letter.

0:50:26 > 0:50:27Will you take it to her?

0:50:31 > 0:50:35'On one piece of paper, Doris crammed the love

0:50:35 > 0:50:37'she hoped would last a lifetime.

0:50:37 > 0:50:40'All that she would miss - the first tooth,

0:50:40 > 0:50:44'the first day of school, the talks they would have had,

0:50:44 > 0:50:46'the love they would have shared.

0:50:48 > 0:50:51'She trusted in God that Carole would

0:50:51 > 0:50:53'have a good life

0:50:53 > 0:50:57'with good people who would give her daughter the future she couldn't.

0:50:59 > 0:51:02'More than anything, she wished she could have kept her

0:51:02 > 0:51:04'because whatever anyone else might feel,

0:51:04 > 0:51:07'it couldn't be what Doris felt.

0:51:07 > 0:51:09'Her daughter was of and from her.

0:51:09 > 0:51:12'They were a part of each other and always would be.'

0:51:14 > 0:51:16How is Mrs Aston?

0:51:17 > 0:51:18Not good.

0:51:20 > 0:51:22I can't let go of her.

0:51:22 > 0:51:24I don't know how her mother could.

0:51:25 > 0:51:28- MISS ELLABY:- We do try. We do our best to make this

0:51:28 > 0:51:30as speedy and painless as possible.

0:51:30 > 0:51:34Paperwork, as always, is a necessary evil

0:51:34 > 0:51:36and then we may all go about our business.

0:51:38 > 0:51:41We've secured good parents,

0:51:41 > 0:51:43a couple from Durham.

0:51:43 > 0:51:45He's a lecturer at the university.

0:51:46 > 0:51:49The child will want for nothing.

0:51:49 > 0:51:50Goodbye, little one.

0:51:52 > 0:51:53God bless you.

0:52:01 > 0:52:02BABY CRIES

0:52:03 > 0:52:08Miss Ellaby, I have a letter from Mrs Aston to her daughter

0:52:08 > 0:52:10for when she's old enough to understand.

0:52:10 > 0:52:14She wants to make it clear it was circumstances, not lack of love.

0:52:14 > 0:52:15I'm sorry, Sister Lee.

0:52:15 > 0:52:18In this case, the parents request no onward contact.

0:52:34 > 0:52:37We will take the letter and keep it safe.

0:52:37 > 0:52:39If Carole searches for her mother one day,

0:52:39 > 0:52:41hopefully, records will bring her to us.

0:52:41 > 0:52:43Miss Ellaby spoke of the parents

0:52:43 > 0:52:46as if Doris had no link at all with her baby.

0:52:46 > 0:52:50When I was a child, I would write to Father Christmas.

0:52:50 > 0:52:53I would put down my many wants,

0:52:53 > 0:52:56mostly chocolate and cake.

0:52:57 > 0:53:00My father would send the letter up the chimney

0:53:00 > 0:53:02and as far as I was aware,

0:53:02 > 0:53:05into the hands of Father Christmas.

0:53:05 > 0:53:06Not sure I follow.

0:53:06 > 0:53:08With the greatest respect, Sister Monica Joan,

0:53:08 > 0:53:12you can't compare this letter to your note to Santa Claus.

0:53:12 > 0:53:16I think what Sister is saying is that sometimes, the act

0:53:16 > 0:53:19of letter-writing is as important as the receipt of the letter.

0:53:20 > 0:53:24Tell Doris we will take care of what she has needed to say.

0:53:24 > 0:53:29And if Carole needs to hear those words, she will find us.

0:53:35 > 0:53:36So, you're back?

0:53:39 > 0:53:40It's gone, then?

0:53:42 > 0:53:44She. Not "it".

0:53:47 > 0:53:49Blame me, Cyril. I cheated.

0:53:49 > 0:53:52I done this. Hate me and I wouldn't blame you.

0:53:52 > 0:53:53But not her.

0:54:00 > 0:54:01Are any of them mine?

0:54:06 > 0:54:07You know they are.

0:54:15 > 0:54:17Could you rinse it again? It's got egg on it.

0:54:19 > 0:54:21I'm sorry. I'm doing it again, aren't I?

0:54:21 > 0:54:24I don't mean to be bossy. I'm just trying to do my best.

0:54:24 > 0:54:26You're doing brilliantly, Jenny.

0:54:26 > 0:54:29I couldn't have gone through what you did with Doris.

0:54:29 > 0:54:30You could.

0:54:30 > 0:54:32We all could...

0:54:33 > 0:54:35..cos it's not about us, is it?

0:54:35 > 0:54:37Mother and baby first.

0:54:37 > 0:54:38Always.

0:54:38 > 0:54:41But don't underestimate yourself, Sister.

0:54:41 > 0:54:44Even if you do wear that ridiculous hat.

0:54:44 > 0:54:47Least I don't pretend to be a natural blonde!

0:54:47 > 0:54:49No pretence, I can assure you.

0:54:49 > 0:54:51My mother said I was born with a halo.

0:54:51 > 0:54:55Doris must be confused. She was sure she dyed your hair.

0:54:55 > 0:54:56Outrageous!

0:54:58 > 0:55:00THEY GIGGLE

0:55:14 > 0:55:15Change your mind?

0:55:17 > 0:55:18Come and march for peace.

0:55:18 > 0:55:20I'm afraid my mind is completely my own.

0:55:20 > 0:55:22And what about your heart?

0:55:22 > 0:55:23I think I'd like to share that.

0:55:25 > 0:55:27Shouldn't it be me giving you flowers?

0:55:27 > 0:55:30Well, now that you mention it...

0:55:30 > 0:55:32It's a Peace rose.

0:55:32 > 0:55:34My contribution to your march.

0:55:38 > 0:55:41I know, I know. Now, you have your work to do.

0:55:41 > 0:55:42My work and my vocation.

0:56:02 > 0:56:05Are you planning on going back to your work?

0:56:09 > 0:56:13Doris, you have to stop punishing yourself.

0:56:13 > 0:56:15You have three other children who depend on you.

0:56:16 > 0:56:18You can't hide for ever.

0:56:45 > 0:56:48Just to the shop and back.

0:56:48 > 0:56:49I can't. I ain't ready.

0:56:49 > 0:56:51And you won't be ready tomorrow or the day after,

0:56:51 > 0:56:54but this is your home, Doris, where your children go to school,

0:56:54 > 0:56:56where your friends are and where you will work again.

0:56:58 > 0:56:59Penny sweets, Mum?

0:57:15 > 0:57:16Doris, how are you?

0:57:16 > 0:57:18Nurse.

0:57:18 > 0:57:20I'm fine, Lizzie. Thanks for asking.

0:57:20 > 0:57:23Well, what do you have, then? Boy or girl?

0:57:23 > 0:57:25And where is it? Where's the baby?

0:57:25 > 0:57:26I, um...

0:57:28 > 0:57:32- It's been quite...- No-one's even heard a cry! Lucky you, I say.

0:57:32 > 0:57:35Mrs Aston's had a rather difficult...

0:57:35 > 0:57:36No baby.

0:57:40 > 0:57:41No baby.

0:57:44 > 0:57:46Excuse me.

0:57:46 > 0:57:50MUSIC: "You Always Hurt the One You Love" by Connie Francis

0:57:50 > 0:57:54'The beginning of life drove us to be strong throughout it

0:57:54 > 0:57:57'and to accept the consequences our actions brought us.

0:57:57 > 0:58:02'In those acts of instinct and courage we found a freedom

0:58:02 > 0:58:03'and it made us bold.

0:58:03 > 0:58:06'It made us believe we could change the world.

0:58:06 > 0:58:09'And in our own small ways, we did.'

0:58:14 > 0:58:16Nurse Noakes' birthday present.

0:58:16 > 0:58:19My Fair Lady, Drury Lane, Saturday night.

0:58:19 > 0:58:22You needn't come if it isn't manly enough for you.

0:58:22 > 0:58:25I'd come to a meeting of the WI if you were going to be there.

0:58:25 > 0:58:27Well, I dare say it will be quite fascinating to be

0:58:27 > 0:58:29surrounded by hardened criminals.

0:58:29 > 0:58:32Most of the women who are locked up are charged with petty theft,

0:58:32 > 0:58:34fraud, prostitution.

0:58:34 > 0:58:38But one thing's for sure. It is no place to have a baby.

0:58:38 > 0:58:41If they think I'm an unfit mother, they'll take my baby, won't they?

0:58:41 > 0:58:43- We can't save everyone. - But she isn't everyone.

0:58:43 > 0:58:50# ..With a hasty word you can't recall

0:58:53 > 0:58:59# So if I broke

0:58:59 > 0:59:03# Your heart last night

0:59:05 > 0:59:11# It's because I love you most of all. #