The Bishop's Wife

# Hark! The herald angels sing

# Glory to the newborn King

# Peace on earth and mercy mild

# God and sinners reconciled

# Joyful, all ye nations rise

# Join the triumph of the skies

# With th'angelic host proclaim

# Christ is born in Bethlehem

# Hark! The herald angels sing

# Glory to the newborn King

# Hail the heav'n born Prince of Peace

# Hail the Sun of Righteousness

# Light and life to all He brings

# Ris'n with healing in His wings... #

-Oh. This is very kind of you.

-It's a privilege.

-Which way are you going?

-Over there. The Mutual Building.

-My doctor is in there. I have hopes.

-Fine.

-I'm all right now.

-Good luck to you.

-Thank you. Merry Christmas to you.

-Merry Christmas.

Mother, please lift me up! Please.

All right then. Just for a minute.

Look at that doll. Look at the funny choo choo train.

Come on now, darling. We have to go.

Oh, my baby! Oh, my baby!

Oh, my baby. Oh, you saved her.

Oh, thank God you saved my baby. How can I ever thank you?

-Don't try. Just don't let it happen again.

-I promise I won't.

-Remember that. Now on your way.

-Yes.

< It closely resembles its noble cousin, the California red fir.

It's botanically dissimilar. Pay me heed, Maggenti.

This is a specimen of the white fir, the Abies concolor.

Surely you, a native Roman, know your Latin?

You wanna buy or not?

-Well, if it isn't my dear, beautiful Julia.

-Hello, Professor.

-What are you doing in this part of town?

-Buying a Christmas tree.

-Hello, Mr Maggenti.

-Mrs Brougham.

How much do you charge for this miserable weed?

-1.85.

-1.85! For this half hearted twig?

I shall pay you ten cents a branch or take my trade elsewhere.

-What can I do for you, Mrs Brougham?

-You can save me that tree.

-The big one right by the door.

-OK.

Every Christmas for the past 18 years,

Maggenti and I have been re-enacting the same argument.

I didn't know you celebrated Christmas. I thought you had no religion.

That's true, my dear, but I like to have a Christmas tree

because it reminds me of my childhood.

I feel, for some reason, that this is a good time of year for looking backwards.

Can you imagine me ever having been a child?

How's Henry? I haven't seen him for some time.

Oh, he's well, thank you.

He's terribly tired and worried.

Is he having difficulty raising money for the cathedral?

Yes. It's slow work.

-How's your book coming?

-Oh, splendidly.

Greatest history of Rome since Gibbon. But, of course, nobody will read it.

Now, my good man, I do not choose to prolong this tawdry bickering any further.

All right. Ten cents a branch.

-It's 1.40.

-Very well, my venal friend.

Here is your blood money.

Mr Maggenti, will you send the tree up on Christmas Eve?

-But I don't want my daughter to see it.

-Don't worry.

I send it when the bambino goes to bed. Merry Christmas.

-Merry Christmas!

-Merry Christmas! Come on.

There's something I'd like you to give Henry for his cathedral fund.

That has been my lucky piece, not that it's brought me luck, except knowing you.

It's an old Roman coin. I picked it up years ago in Brindisi. It has little value.

-It's a wonderful contribution.

-Nonsense.

It might be called the "widow's mite" if it weren't for the fact that I'm not a widow.

Why, Julia, this is no occasion for tears.

It's stopped snowing.

If only we could spend Christmas back here where we were so happy.

-With you and all of our old friends.

-Now, now, now.

Good night, Professor. I'll see you again very soon.

It can't be soon enough. Good night, Julia.

Why, Professor! How fine to see you again after all these years. How well you look.

-How are you?

-Never better. And you?

-Quite well also, thank you.

-I don't think you remember me.

-Of course I do. Where did we meet?

-Professor, after all these years...

-Just a moment.

-It wasn't Vienna, was it?

-Beautiful old Vienna.

The university. When I was lecturing there on Roman history.

And what great lectures they were. And what a one you were with the ladies.

Fancy you remembering that.

-I must confess, I had my moments.

-And still have.

-Where are you going?

-That car.

I couldn't help noticing your tender parting from Julia.

-You know Julia?

-In a way, yes.

-Poor child.

-She's unhappy?

-When were you in Vienna?

-Oh, I've been there many times.

I'm interested in Julia and Henry. What seems to be their trouble?

I never see Henry any more. He has no time for riffraff like me.

He now consorts with the vulgar rich, like Mrs Hamilton.

You know she had me fired from the university here? Said I was a radical.

I, who have never taken any interest in politics since the death of Nero.

Look at that. Henry's old church, perishing from neglect.

-It's such a nice little church.

-Too little, I'm afraid.

It can't stand up against the march of progress.

Well, I must be pushing on.

-Delighted to have seen you.

-A pleasure.

We must have a drink to those old days in Vienna.

By all means!

-Good evening, Professor.

-Oh, Pat?

Have you any idea who that man is?

No. He's a stranger to me.

-Good evening.

-Good evening, Matilda. Hello, Queenie.

-Is Debby in bed yet?

-Yes, ma'am.

Mrs Hamilton and the committee are in there with the bishop.

The dinner's been waiting a long time. We didn't know what to do about it.

-We'll have dinner as soon as they leave.

-But what about the chicken?

Don't worry about it, Matilda, please. Thank you.

Oh, Matilda. My bag.

Thank you.

Oh, I'm terribly sorry I'm so late.

Good evening, Mrs Hamilton. I was delayed Christmas shopping.

Good evening, Mr Perry, Mrs Trumbull. Hello, Mrs Ward.

I hope you've been having a good meeting.

We have not. I've never in my life encountered such fuzzy thinking.

-Do you think we've made any progress?

-No.

-Mr Perry was about to tell us something.

-Merely a suggestion.

If Mrs Hamilton approves, we can place

the George B Hamilton Memorial Chapel here on the north east.

It will be out of sight there. I won't stand for it.

Mrs Hamilton, this cathedral cannot be designed for the glory of an individual.

-It has to be created for all the people.

-I'm very displeased at your attitude.

I was instrumental in making you Bishop, although others thought you too young.

-Is that an exaggeration?

-Oh, yes, Mrs... I mean, no.

-You were the guiding spirit.

-I distinctly remember...

I had confidence in you when you were a poor little parson in the slums.

I confess my confidence is weakened.

I regret I've been a disappointment.

Regrets are no good whatsoever.

You give me the impression of being confused, indecisive and ineffectual.

That is not the kind of leadership we expect of our bishop.

You'd better remember one thing.

You will build that cathedral as I want it or you will not build it at all.

That's all I have to say.

-Someone get this dog out of the way.

-Julia?

Queenie.

-Goodbye, Mrs Hamilton.

-Good evening, Mrs Brougham.

-Good evening, Mrs Brougham.

-Good evening, Mrs Brougham.

-Can we serve dinner now?

-Yes, Matilda.

-The chicken will be burned to a crisp.

-We'll be right in.

Julia, you knew Mrs Hamilton was expected this afternoon.

I know, Henry. I'm sorry I was late.

What a ghastly afternoon. What a ghastly woman.

I have no intention of being strangled by her purse strings.

I was proud of you.

I had a most un-Christian impulse to give her a good whack over the... mink coat.

I thought you stood up to her magnificently.

I appreciate your appreciation, but what about my cathedral?

May I make a suggestion, Henry?

Why not postpone the cathedral till after Christmas?

Impossible. The house of God can't be put off. This cathedral must rise.

Plenty of rich people in this town.

I'll have to take advantage of their Yuletide spirit.

I can see it all now.

The McWhirters, the Hornes, the Van Deusens, the lunches, the meetings

and you there flattering them.

-Kowtowing to them, begging.

-It's got to be done.

Oh, Henry. If you could see your poor harassed face.

-You haven't done very much to help it.

-Miss Cassaway, what is it?

-Mr Trevor on the phone, Bishop.

-Tell him the bishop will call him back.

Yes, Mrs Brougham.

Henry, what's happened to you? What's happened to our marriage?

We used to have such fun, you and Debby and I.

We used to be happy and make other people happy.

Henry, that was your gift. You're no financier or promoter.

Julia, I want this cathedral to stand like a great beacon. I want its light...

Oh, never mind. Keep that for your next committee meeting.

-Here's a contribution I collected.

-What's that?

It's an old Roman coin. Professor Wutheridge sent it. Wasn't that sweet?

Old fool. What does he think I can do with that?

Well, it's a beginning.

Now all you need is another four million.

Julia, don't be flippant about this!

-Is dinner ready?

-Yes.

Let's go in and get it over with. I have a lot of work to do.

For what we are about to receive, may the Lord make us truly thankful. Amen.

-Julia?

-Yes?

I was just thinking...tomorrow maybe we could go out together.

-Where?

-Well, just walk around the way we used to.

We could go and call on the professor,

go to the park and watch the skaters, that sort of thing.

Maybe we could have lunch together. At Michel's. Do you remember that?

Michel's. Oh, it's been years since we've been there.

Forgive me. I've been trying to explain to Mr Trevor,

but he insists upon speaking to you personally, Bishop.

Excuse me, darling.

Matilda, keep the soup warm. The bishop's been called to the phone.

-And we'll be out for lunch tomorrow.

-Yes, ma'am.

Of course, Mr Trevor. Yes, but...

I appreciate your difficulties, but... Very well. I'll be there.

10.30 tomorrow morning, then on to the board meeting.

All right. Yes. Goodbye.

Mr Trevor's office, 10.30, then the board meeting in the Banker's Club at 11.

-Yes, sir. Tomorrow. Thursday.

-You might as well go home.

-But there's a great deal to do.

-You must be tired.

Thank you. Don't forget tomorrow you speak at the Junior Assembly.

-What time is that?

-One o'clock.

You made the appointment over a month ago.

-Good night, Bishop.

-Good night.

Oh, God, what am I to do?

Can't you help me? Can't you tell me?

Oh, God, please help me.

DOOR CLOSES

Yes?

-Good evening.

-Good eve...

-What can I do for you?

-That isn't the question.

Well, what is the...?

What can I do for you?

I must ask you to telephone my secretary. I'm in the middle of dinner.

I know, Henry. Your soup will keep warm. You asked for help.

I? I... Who told you I asked for help?

Well, you were known to be a good man, Henry, and you were heard.

I was instructed to come here in answer to your prayer.

-Who are you?

-I'm an angel.

-I beg your pardon?

-I'm an angel.

-No wings at the moment, but...

-You're an angel.

I knew it. I've been working too hard.

I understand, Henry. It's hard to believe, even for you.

I'm not one of the more important angels.

I just happen to be assigned to this district temporarily.

You see, we're everywhere, helping people who deserve to be...

..to be helped.

As you're walking through the city, you may look into a strange face.

It may be the face of a murderer or it may be the face of an angel.

You have some problems with the building of this cathedral?

-Yes.

-It's a fine cathedral.

Ought to look magnificent up there on top of Sanctuary Hill.

Well, Henry. Do you believe I am what I say I am?

How can I? I've only got your word for it.

But you're a bishop. You can trust the word of an angel.

I'd like to.

What do you propose to do?

-Perform a miracle?

-If necessary.

Why don't you? Create the cathedral with one wave of your hand.

-How would you explain it?

-Well, I...

Tell the world you're being visited by an angel? You can't do that.

Henry, is anything wrong? I...

-Oh. I'm sorry. I didn't know you had...

-Julia. If you don't mind...

How do you do, Julia? I'm Dudley.

Henry is engaging me to help him with his work.

-You're going to be his assistant?

-That's it.

I'm going to help Henry to rest and get some relaxation.

-That's what I've been praying for.

-You too?

Henry, I'm so relieved. Isn't it wonderful you've found someone to help?

-Yes, but...

-Where do you come from?

-All around.

-Yes. But where?

Julia, to tell you the truth, he says that he's an a...

I've been doing some social service work down town.

Now you'll be with Henry permanently?

For as long as may be necessary.

Julia, if you don't mind, I must talk to this gentleman alone.

I'll see you in a moment.

We were just having dinner. Won't you join us?

That's very kind of you, but I have a number of things to do.

You can understand, Henry. So many people making mistakes.

-Yes. I see.

-Then we'll see you tomorrow?

-Oh, yes. Bright and early.

-Good.

Whenever you're ready, Henry. Good night, Dudley.

Good night, Julia.

Are you sure you're an angel?

I know it isn't easy, but you've got to take me on faith.

-Yes, but for how long?

-For just long enough.

Until you can utter another prayer and say that you have no further need of me.

Then I'll be gone and forgotten.

But now Julia's waiting for you at the dining table. You must go to her.

Yes.

But I don't...

-Henry?

-Yes?

-What's the rest of Dudley's name?

-I don't know.

-Oh.

Are you nervous, dear?

No.

-The bishop didn't eat his breakfast.

-No. He took only his prune juice.

Prune juice? Is he sick?

He looked perfectly awful. He said he had a very bad sleepless night.

Passing up a breakfast like that. It just ain't normal.

Nobody expects him to be normal. He's a bishop.

-Could I get you something, sir?

-No, thank you, Matilda.

-Maybe just a cup of tea?

-Nothing, thank you.

-Good morning, Miss Cassaway.

-Good morning, Bishop.

Did anything come in for the Cathedral Fund?

Mr and Mrs J Thurston Ward. No contribution.

-Mrs Gerald Wilmarth. 15.

-15? We had her down for 10,000.

There's a letter explaining that this year...

I know. The same letter they all write.

I've put your personal mail on the desk. The rest I'm taking to the office.

I'll be there after the meetings.

Oh. Matilda, I think there's someone at the door.

Yes, sir.

Good morning, Matilda. I'm Dudley, the bishop's new assistant.

Good morning, Henry. I'm afraid I'm a little late,

but I stopped to chat to a traffic policeman who was worried about his wife.

Thank you, dear. So I directed the traffic while he telephoned the hospital.

-I see.

-She's doing fine. So's the baby.

Why, you must be Mildred Cassaway. How do you do?

-How do you do?

-We're going to be working together.

That's very nice. Oh, thank you.

-Thank you very much.

-See you later, Mildred.

Well. Ready for duty. Completely at your service.

-No, no. I feel that...

-No.

-Good morning, Julia.

-Good morning, Dudley. It's a lovely day.

-Lovely.

-Henry and I are going out.

-I'm sorry, but I have some appointments.

-You what?

There's Mr Trevor, then the board meeting and the Junior Assembly.

-But, Henry, you promised.

-I know I did.

Well, Dudley could represent you at those meetings, couldn't he?

Could I?

No. They expect me. It would never do if I sent an an...assistant.

Excuse me.

Now...

Oh.

-The trouble is I can't explain.

-You needn't try to explain.

This is the way it is and the way it will always be.

We've just got to get used to it, that's all.

I'll tell Matilda she can have the day off and I'll take care of Debby.

I see that Mrs George B Hamilton has pledged 1 million,

-but has not yet sent her cheque.

-Never mind.

That's work for a book keeper, not an ange... Work for a book keeper.

Aha. So you're beginning to believe in me?

I don't know who you are, where you came from or who sent you.

I just wish you'd make haste.

Because the cathedral must be built?

That's the most important thing.

Or because Julia must be happy?

It's going to be difficult to help you until I'm sure what you want.

Well, I've got the... Then there's... Oh.

Would you mind telling me what you intend to do now?

This card index file is in an awful mess. I'll reorganise it.

You're wasting time on unimportant details.

Nothing's unimportant. We are interested even in the lowliest sparrow.

-Hello, Debby.

-Are you Dudley?

-Yes. How did you know?

-Mummy told me.

She said you came to help Daddy.

-That's right.

-Mummy said you were very nice.

Well, that's extremely kind of Mummy.

Mummy said that maybe with you here we will get to see Daddy sometimes.

-Maybe we will.

-That'll be enough out of you, Debby.

I asked Matilda to put your lunch on a tray.

-Thank you, Julia. I'll get along very well.

-I'm sure you will. Come on.

-Goodbye, Dudley.

-Bye-bye, Debby.

-Goodbye.

-Bye.

Oh.

-Oh. Thank you, Matilda.

-Aren't you going to wear a hat?

-I never use one.

-It's very cold out.

-Oh, the cold never affects me.

-I think you should wear this.

I bought it for the bishop last Christmas, but he's never worn it.

It's a lovely scarf. I'm sure the bishop will appreciate it when he sees it on me.

-Thank you. Goodbye.

-Bye.

Goodbye.

-What's the matter, honey?

-They don't want me.

-Why not?

-I guess I'm too little or something.

Oh. Now, now.

Why, that's the most ridiculous thing I've ever heard.

Why, Dudley.

Come on, Debby. We'll show them how wrong they are.

Hey, fellas. Hey, fellas! Who's the head man around here?

-I am.

-I am.

-What's the idea of this game?

-This isn't a game. This is a battle.

We attack the fort and they try to defend it. See?

I see. Well, this young lady would like to get into it.

Who, her? She can't fight. Her father's a bishop.

What difference does it make? Are you high hat? You like her on your team?

She couldn't throw a snowball as far as I could spit.

Oh, couldn't she? Come on, Debby. You show them what you can do.

-But it's true. I can't throw.

-Nonsense. Of course you can.

Pack it tight, put it in that hand, throw the arm back, aim it and let it go.

-Hey!

-Beautiful! A bull's-eye.

She pitched a curve. Did you see that?

Come on, kid. You're in our army. We've broken their morale.

Charge!

-Will she get hurt?

-Probably, but she'll love it.

-May I?

-Surely.

Dudley, what are you doing out here?

I'm just admiring the scenery.

But aren't you supposed to be working?

I always take a walk before lunch. A good idea relaxing.

-Oh. I wish you could persuade Henry to do that.

-I'll try.

By the way, I told Miss Cassaway to go home and Delia not to bring me a tray.

What will you do about lunch?

I thought I'd go to Michel's. Ever heard of it?

Michel's. That's a lovely place.

We used to go there. That was years ago.

Well, how about you and I going there today?

You and...? To Mich...? Oh, no, I couldn't.

Why not? Surely you don't think Henry would mind?

-I'd explain to him that we just...

-No, it isn't that, but...

Matilda's off Christmas shopping so I have to look after Debby.

Well, here's Matilda now.

-Hello. If you wish... Oh, hello.

-Hello.

-If you wish, I'll take Debby home.

-But, Matilda, your shopping...

I finished it. I finished it so quick, it was just like a miracle.

Mummy! We won!

Oh, Debby, that's wonderful! Congratulations.

-Come on! We're giving out the medals.

-Put up your hood, dear.

-Madam, welcome.

-Oh, Michel.

-It's been a long time.

-Much too long.

-But you know my husband's work.

-Yes.

He doesn't come to see us any more, but we understand.

We understand. This way, please.

-Is this satisfactory, monsieur?

-Fine, thank you.

-Friends of yours?

-Yes.

They're members of the Cathedral Committee.

-Madam. Monsieur.

-No, thank you, Michel.

Julia, don't bother to look through that.

Michel, just bring us the best lunch you can think of.

I see monsieur is a gourmet.

Perhaps you would be interested in a guinea hen a-la-Michel?

-J'ai les truffles Francaises. Exquise!

-Je prefere les Italiennes.

Prefere les Italiennes? Quel sacrilege!

Please, Michel, let's leave heaven out of this.

Je prefere les Italiennes surtout pas de cayenne, du paprika.

Du paprika? Du paprika.

You speak French beautifully.

I've had quite a bit of work to do in Paris.

-Dudley, I've been wondering about you.

-Wondering about me? Why?

You know so much. Makes me feel uncomfortable.

Well, in that case, I'm sorry I learned anything.

But I'm glad you knew about Michel.

Oh, it's so nice to be back here again. So nice.

You have memories of this place, Julia?

-Did you and Henry come here often?

-Yes.

This is where we became engaged to be married.

Ah. Then I can understand why you love it.

-Oh, hello.

-Pardon me.

Thank you. What about that?

My. Would you care to have your palm read?

Oh, no, thank you. Would you?

No, thanks. I know too much about myself as it is.

You are different. I know so little about myself.

Really? May I look at your hand?

-Can you do that too?

-It's not too difficult.

-You can read the future?

-Within limits.

He's holding her hand.

Well, what do you see?

Well, I never noticed. Your eyes are green.

I see a great deal of happiness. I see a woman who's adored.

I see a rich, full life.

-Do you see Henry's new cathedral?

-No. There's a fuzziness about that.

-Oh. And Debby?

-No need to worry about her.

Just thinking. The world changes but two things remain constant.

-What?

-Youth and beauty.

They're really one and the same thing.

-Yes. The trouble is people grow old.

-Not everybody.

The only people who grow old were born old to begin with.

You were born young. You'll remain that way.

-Oh, I wish I could believe you.

-You may.

You haven't looked at my hand once.

I never know what to make of you. I never know whether you're joking or serious.

I'm at my most serious when I'm joking.

Excuse me, Julia. Gotta do something about that.

Do forgive me coming to your table. My name is Dudley.

I believe you're all friends of Julia's. Would you care to join us?

-Oh, no, thank you.

-Well, join us for some coffee?

How about that? Do come over. Julia would be delighted.

-All right.

-Well, that'd be lovely.

-That's very nice.

-Just over here.

Hello, Mrs Caster. How are you? Nice to see you.

Hello. How are you?

Michel, bring us three Benedictines.

-No, no. Make it three Stingers.

-Oui, monsieur.

Julia?

Julia!

Julia!

-Matilda, is lunch ready?

-We thought you were out for lunch.

I cancelled my appointment. Is Mrs Brougham home?

-Debby's here, sir.

-And Mrs Brougham?

Why, sir, she went out to lunch with Mr Dudley.

-With Dudley?

-Why, yes, sir.

I thought you knew, sir.

Yes, of course.

DOOR SLAMS

That's awful. Merry Christmas.

Santa Claus doesn't really look like that.

-You know Santa Claus?

-Certainly. Nice chap.

You must tell Debby about him. She's just beginning to be a little bit doubtful.

-You like that hat?

-Yes, I'm crazy about it.

-Well, let's go in and buy it.

-Oh, no, I couldn't.

-Why, it's much too...

-Too what? Too attractive?

-My old friend, the professor.

-Hello, Professor.

-Julia! Are you with this man?

-Yes, of course. It's Dudley.

The professor knows me well. University of Vienna.

I've been thinking about that. I don't believe you've ever been to Vienna.

He always pretends he's never seen me before.

I don't know who he is, but I don't trust him.

-Professor, he's Henry's new assistant.

-Oh.

-You know this fellow?

-Of course I do.

Well, in that case, how about dropping in for a bit of Yuletide cheer?

No, no. I have to go home. I... Well, perhaps just for a few minutes.

Good. Come along.

There's a little sherry left. It's rather inferior grade, but potable.

Professor, I see you're a religious man.

-What makes you think that?

-You have an angel on your tree.

Julia gave me that years ago.

-Your tree is beautiful.

-It's disgraceful.

However, it gives me the illusion of peace on Earth, goodwill toward men.

-To a charming lady.

-Lovely.

-You've noticed?

-Isn't it remarkable that you have?

Remarkable? When you want to know about a woman, ask the old men.

They know.

Why don't you show us the manuscript of your book?

-My book?

-Yes.

-Oh, no, no.

-You're writing one?

-Yes.

-You didn't know?

-You didn't tell me.

I described that book in detail

at the lectures I gave at the University of Vienna.

All my pupils heard me. Now I'm certain this fellow's an impostor.

That book? I thought you'd finished that years ago.

I'll tell you... I'll tell you about my book.

For 20 years, I've been talking about it

and promising the publishers it'll be delivered next spring.

The funny part is that I haven't written one word.

-Not one word.

-Why not?

I couldn't think of anything original to say.

Just the same old monotonous history. Dry as dust.

That's the whole story of my life. Frustration.

It's a chronic disease and it's incurable.

Once I was madly...

Once I was madly in love with a girl.

My friends, she was a vision of delight. A pure enchantress.

-You never told me about it.

-That's the trouble.

I never told her about it either. I couldn't find the words.

So she married an athlete.

A great hulking oaf who never even reached the eighth grade.

But he knew how to say, "I love you."

Same trouble with my book. Can't find the words.

Even when you had this coin to inspire you?

Why, that's the one that you gave to Henry.

Yes. I stole it off the table.

You wasted your time. It's worthless.

On the contrary, this is one of the rarest of all antiquities.

Only 100 of these coins were minted by Julius Caesar 2,000 years ago.

That was when Cleopatra visited Rome.

Presumably, these were used to pay her hotel bill.

-I never knew that.

-Nobody knew except Caesar's wife.

-She was suspicious?

-Definitely.

She did not share her husband's admiration for Cleopatra.

So she had these coins destroyed, melted into ornaments.

This is the one she missed.

It's an unwritten chapter in history and you, Professor, will write it.

-Do you know any more stories like that?

-Any number of them.

-You're a curious fellow, Dudley.

-Have you just begun to notice?

-What's your background?

-My background?

-Where do you come from?

-Well...

And don't tell me more about Vienna because I won't believe it.

All right. If I told you I came from another planet, would you believe me?

-I don't know.

-I'd believe you, Dudley.

And you'd be right, Julia, as always. We all come from our own little planets.

That's why we're all different. That's what makes life interesting.

We don't seem to be making any headway.

First star I see tonight.

You must make a wish, Julia.

Oh, it's getting dark. Must be late. Henry will be worried. We must be leaving.

-Oh, no. Yes.

-I'm sorry, Professor, but we must.

-Dudley?

-Yes, my friend.

-There's one thing that troubles me.

-What's that?

I'm an old man. That history is a tremendous task.

I wonder...will I have time to finish it?

You'll finish your history, Professor. You'll have time.

I believe you, Dudley.

For quite a while now, every time I passed a cemetery,

I've felt as if I were apartment hunting.

Goodbye, Professor.

You've given an old man a very happy afternoon.

-God bless you both.

-Thank you.

I'll pass that recommendation along.

CLOCK CHIMES

My, that's pretty.

Why don't you take some of that pink stuff and make little curlicues?

I hope the dinner won't be spoilt.

No, sir. I had a feeling they might be late.

Yes... Very considerate of you. What's that cake for?

-What cake?

-That cake behind you.

That cake. Oh, for anybody who might like cakes, sir.

But neither Mrs Brougham nor myself like elaborate desserts.

But we've baked you an egg custard, sir.

DOOR OPENS, VOICES CHATTING

Hello, dear. I'm sorry we were late for dinner.

-Good evening.

-We've had a marvellous time.

-I wish you'd been with us.

-Debby told me about the snow fight.

Did she? We went to see Professor Wutheridge and we had lunch at Michel's.

-Is Debby in bed?

-No. She's waiting to see you.

Good. I'll just go up and say good night.

I won't be a minute. I just want to see if she's all right.

-I trust you spent a profitable afternoon?

-Oh, yes.

Did you have a profitable afternoon?

-Not very. I'd like to see you...for a moment.

-Certainly.

Excuse me.

Can you prove to me that you are an angel?

Proof? You mean a document?

Surely you of all people should know that an angel needs no passport.

I want to see you perform a miracle.

What kind? Well...

Make this desk fly around the room.

Please. I didn't come down here to do silly tricks. I'm surprised at you.

I don't believe you're an angel.

-I think you're a demon right out of...

-Oh, Henry. Don't say that.

-Well, anyway, you know how I feel.

-Yes.

Wait a minute. There's another thing.

Oh. Dinner is served, Bishop.

Thank you, Dudley.

-For what we are about to receive, may the Lord make us truly thankful.

-Amen.

Pass the celery, Henry, please.

-Hm?

-The celery.

Thank you.

Thank you.

SHE HUMS QUIETLY

What's that you're humming?

I don't know, dear. Is it anything?

-It's rather gay.

-Well, I feel gay.

I like to watch you brushing your hair.

Thank you, dear. Is that a compliment?

Yes. You do it so...so capably.

Thank you.

In fact, now I come to think of it, everything you do is capable.

I pride myself on the fact that we lead a well ordered life. The family, I mean.

Of course, the credit for that is due to you much more than to me.

-I think you're an excellent wife.

-Thank you.

-Do you think I'm an excellent husband?

-Of course.

We're having an early supper so we can get to St Timothy's on time.

-St Timothy's?

-The rehearsal for the benefit.

-Oh, yes.

-You've been looking awfully tired lately.

I hope you're going to take it easier now that Dudley's here.

-I think that he's very able.

-You do?

-Yes. He knows so many things.

-What, for instance?

You should have seen him with Professor Wutheridge.

He knows more about history than the professor.

He's been at it longer.

-Let's do that again.

-No. Tell me a story.

-What, now?

-Don't you know any stories?

-I know hundreds of stories.

-Tell me one. Please.

All right. Let me think. This happened many, many years ago.

That's not the way to begin. Stories start once upon a time.

Yes, that's true.

Once upon a time, there was a little boy and he lived in a little town.

-What was his name?

-His name was David. He was a shepherd.

The town was called Bethlehem.

I know Bethlehem. That's where the star was.

That's right. Only David lived long before the star.

One night, David was out in the hills tending his sheep.

-He was playing the harp and singing.

-Was he singing Jingle Bells?

No, no. Jingle Bells hadn't been written then.

David was singing songs that he wrote himself.

Suddenly, an angel came down and spoke to David.

-How did David know it was an angel?

-He didn't know.

And that's the way it always is.

Angels come and put ideas into people's heads

and people feel very proud of themselves because they think it was their own idea.

This angel said to David, "One of your lambs has strayed."

So David put aside his harp and went into the darkness to find the lamb.

The angel guided him.

And when David found the lamb, he saw a great big ferocious lion.

Oh!

So David said to the lion, "You get away from that lamb."

And the lion said, "You get away from me or I'll eat you too."

-Did David run away?

-No.

You know why? Because the angel put another idea into his head.

So David took out his sling and he hurled a stone

and hit the lion right between the eyes.

I bet that lion was surprised!

Yes. And so was David because he didn't know an angel had helped him.

Well, he picked up the lamb and took it back to the fold.

Then he felt so happy that he made up another song. It started out...

The Lord is my shepherd. I shall not want.

He maketh me to lie down in green pastures.

He leadeth me besides the still waters.

He restoreth my soul...

You can tell the rest of this, Henry.

-Some other time.

-Hello, Daddy.

Miss Cassaway, will you get Mrs Hamilton on the telephone?

-Miss Cassaway? Mrs Hamilton.

-Yes, Bishop.

-Good morning, Julia.

-Dudley.

I'll see you in a few minutes. I have to see Matilda.

-Bye, Debby.

-Goodbye, Dudley.

-Thank you.

-Oh. Pretty.

Are you expecting a letter?

One never knows. If I should get one, the stamp will be worth saving.

I'll have Mrs Hamilton in a moment.

-Are you seeing Mrs Hamilton?

-I hope to.

-May I come along? I'd like to meet her.

-Mrs Hamilton? Bishop Brougham.

Hello, Mrs Hamilton. How are you? I'm glad to hear it.

Mrs Hamilton, I'd like to see you today. This afternoon, if possible.

Yes, it is. It's very urgent.

-Oh, that's too bad.

-Terrible.

You can? Oh, that's splendid. Thank you so much.

I'll be there. Five o'clock this evening. Thank you, Mrs Hamilton.

Henry, you didn't make an appointment for this afternoon?

Yes. It was the only time.

You can't do this to Reverend Miller. That rehearsal's just for you.

They'll get along without me. There are other things more important.

-Mr Miller will be delighted to see you.

-But it's not the same.

You're his bishop. I don't like going alone.

It's the big house at the end of this street, driver.

Dudley, I take it that...that you have the money for the taxi.

No. What makes you think I have money?

Oh, I just thought that you being an a...

Oh, goodness!

-I'm sorry.

-I'm sorry.

-That's all right.

Thank you.

-I won't be late. I may even join you.

-Please try.

I'll see you in front of St Timothy's in one hour.

-Try.

-I will be there.

-Good.

-This is it, driver.

-Good evening, Bishop.

-How are you, Stevens?

-Mrs Hamilton's in the drawing room, sir.

-Thank you.

Well, Bishop Brougham.

My dear Mrs Hamilton, I've come to tell you...

-You've come to apologise, I trust.

-Exactly.

Upon consideration, my objections seem petty

compared with the generosity of your gesture.

I'm very much relieved. Sit down, Mr Brougham.

What hurt most was to think that my instinct had betrayed me

in recommending you for your position.

I'm unceasingly grateful.

Now, I'm taking it for granted

that the George B Hamilton Memorial Chapel shall be located...

Just where you specified.

You no longer feel the effect will be that it was built in my husband's honour?

That was said in dispute. What matters is the cathedral be built.

Good. I will not have his name on some horrid little brass plaque.

No. It'll be incised in marble. Large letters. Gilded.

That large window depicting St George and the dragon.

I should like that the countenance of St George suggests my late husband.

Yes. Who do you see as the dragon?

-Oh. Any dragon. Let's get the blueprints.

-Oh, Mrs Hamilton.

As we're in agreement, would you mind if we postpone discussing the details?

Julia's waiting at St Timothy's.

Very well. We can go over the plans when we transfer the funds.

Thank you. And I'm so glad we've settled our differences.

-Is anything the matter?

-Well... It doesn't seem quite right.

Oh. Stevens. There's something wrong about the bishop's chair.

Madam, it must be the new varnish.

The finisher should have warned us.

-I do hope I'm not harming the chair.

-No, no, not at all.

Send to a furniture shop or a plumbers or... Turpentine. Do something.

Yes, madam. Oh, dear.

-I wonder...

-Would you give it a pull at the back?

-Yes.

Thank you.

It's been a long time since Henry's been down here. I wish he had come.

You know, when he was here, he was so close to people, so loved by everybody.

Uh-huh. And how does it seem to you now?

That he's moved away from the people he loved?

Yes. It's going to be a disappointment for Reverend Miller not to see him.

Well, he doesn't have to be disappointed.

-Hello, Mr Miller.

-Mrs Brougham, so good of you to come.

I'm delighted to be here. This is Mr Dudley, the bishop's assistant.

-Mr Dudley, a pleasure.

-Thank you, Mr Miller.

The bishop will try to get here later.

-Oh. Of course. He's a busy man now.

-Yes.

-This is Mrs Duffy.

-I know Mrs Duffy. How are you?

-It's always an honour to have you here.

-Thank you. This is Mr Dudley.

-Mrs Duffy is the organist.

-I'm sure she plays enchantingly.

-Hello, Mrs Duffy.

-I'm afraid some of our boys are late.

We really should begin, but I don't see how we can. It's quite embarrassing.

But it is a little difficult to compete with basketball and Christmas.

-They're all good boys at heart.

-I know they are. They'll show up.

-I hope so.

-Hello, Bobby.

Hello.

-What do you sing?

-First soprano.

-Are you good?

-I don't know.

-How about giving out?

-Me alone?

-You've got George. Hello, George.

-Hello.

-What do you say?

-OK.

-Are you ready, Mrs Duffy?

-Yes.

-Hit it.

# O, sing to God your hymns of gladness

# Ye loving hearts your tribute pay

# Your Lord is born this happy day

# Then pierce the sky with songs of gladness

# Disperse the shades of gloom and sadness

# Your Lord is born this happy day

# O, sing to God your hymns of gladness

# O, sing to God your hymns of gladness

# Ye loving hearts your tribute pay

# Your Lord is born this happy day

# Then pierce the sky with songs of gladness

# Disperse the shades of gloom and sadness

# Your Lord is born this happy day

# O, sing to God your hymns of gladness

# O, word of God for us incarnate

# O, word of God for us incarnate

# By faith we hear thine angels sing

# By faith we hear thine angels sing

# O, God, we hear thine angels sing their

# Hymns of praise to thee, their King

# We join with them in adoration

# We join with them in adoration

# We pour, we pour to thee

# Our supplication

# That thou wouldst

# Grant us, Lord,

# Sa-alvation. #

Boys, that was beautiful.

Really beautiful.

You've all grown up so since the bishop and I lived in this parish

that I hardly recognised any of you.

But I'm so proud of you and I know he's going to be too.

Oh, thank you. Mr Miller, that was wonderful.

I can't thank you enough, Mrs Brougham. And you, Mr Dudley.

Oh, I'm so sorry the bishop couldn't have been here.

-Are you all right?

-Yes, thank you.

Whatever is keeping Stevens? Oh, Stevens. There you are.

I'm sorry, madam, but the furniture shop is closed until after New Year,

I can't find a plumber and we're out of turpentine.

This is preposterous!

Would some witch hazel be of any use?

-Might I use your telephone?

-Of course. It's over there.

Matilda, this is Bishop Brougham. I'm at Mrs Hamilton's.

Will you bring me another pair of trousers?

What difference does it make? Just bring me another pair of trousers.

I'm so very sorry this has happened.

If only I could get in touch with Julia or Dudley.

Now don't be nervous, Bishop.

-Have a chair.

-Thank you. I have one.

He isn't here.

Perhaps the meeting was more important than he thought.

I suppose. We'd better go on home.

-You know, Dudley, it's a strange thing.

-What's strange?

You're able to make me feel as if everything's going to be all right.

-Well, it could be if...

-If what?

If people could only learn to behave like human beings.

Hey, taxi.

Here's a cab, Julia.

-Will you please wait, Sylvester?

-OK. Sure. I'll wait. Sylvester?!

Good evening. I'll be right with you.

Now, this is one of our most exclusive models.

Oh, it's lovely, just simply ravishing.

-So chic. So young.

-It is sweet, isn't it?

Stunning.

Not everyone could wear such a daring hat, but it was made for madame.

Say, how did you know my name was Sylvester?

-It's up there on your card.

-Oh.

Sylvester, could you drive through the park?

-That's way out of your way.

-Are you getting bored with us?

Oh, no. I'll drive you by way of Mexico City if you want.

Thank you.

Dudley, I'm having so much fun.

-Are you, Julia?

-Yes.

I feel as if I were doing something wicked.

-Why?

-I don't know.

Somehow it seems wrong to have so much fun, but...

I can't figure out what's wrong about it.

You folks know what the main trouble with this country is?

Oh, I've heard several versions of that.

-Do you know, Sylvester?

-I think I do.

There are too many people who don't know where they're going

and they wanna get there too fast.

Take you two. I'd call you unusual.

Thank you. You're very perceptive.

First, you know your destination, but you're in no hurry to get there.

You wanna enjoy some scenery en route and you're not reluctant

to spend an extra four bits for a detour with Mother Nature.

Hey, look where you're goin'!

Well... Well, my goodness. Did you see the way I missed that truck?

-It was just like a miracle.

-Yes, but don't overplay your hand.

Oh.

Sylvester, pull up here. Come on. We're going skating.

No, we mustn't, it's late. We couldn't. Do you think we could?

Henry's waited this long. He can wait a little longer. Stop the car.

-I am wicked.

-If you are, so am I, and that's impossible.

-Can you skate, Sylvester?

-I used to, but I'm too old now.

Come on. You'll find out how young you are.

BAND PLAYS DANCE MUSIC

Ooh! I'm not quite so sure of myself.

Now relax. That's right.

-Oh!

-That's right.

Oh.

Pretty hat.

-Why, Dudley!

-Now you.

-Oh, no.

-Come on.

-Dudley, this is heavenly.

-You found the perfect word.

Look! Look what I'm doing.

You're a beautiful skater, Julia. In fact, you're beautiful.

Oh, look! Look at Sylvester.

Go on, Sylvester!

Oh, my God!

-Excuse me.

-Surely.

Keep cool, Sylvester. Keep cool.

Relax.

That's right. Come on. Give me the other one. That's it.

All right. Now relax. Don't collapse. Just relax.

Hang on to me now.

Oh! Don't leave me!

Don't! Ooh!

How am I doing, Dudley?

Wait for me, Dudley!

Thank you.

-How much do I owe you, Sylvester?

-Not a cent, my friend.

My pockets are just bulging with the coins of self-satisfaction.

-You wanna know why?

-I'd love to know.

Because you and the little lady have restored my faith in human nature.

Good night, Dudley. Good night, Julia.

-Good night, Sylvester.

-Good night, Sylvester.

Sylvester is a noble soul.

His children and his children's children will rise up and call him Blessed.

Dudley, this has been the most wonderful evening I've had in years.

This has been the most wonderful evening I've had in centuries.

-I hope I haven't left the key home.

-It's open.

Thank you, Dudley. Hello, Queenie.

-Hello, Queenie. May I help you?

-Yes, please.

-Oh! You took off my shoe.

-Hello, Henry.

Henry, what happened? I thought you were going to meet us at St Timothy's.

-What happened to you? It's very late.

-Thank you. You'll never guess.

We went skating. There you are.

See you in a minute, Henry.

-Skating?

-Yes. Dudley's a marvellous skater.

He even made me imagine that I was good.

You should have heard those boys sing at St Timothy's. It was heavenly.

-I'm sure.

-Did you have a successful meeting?

-Did you?

-Satisfactory.

Good. I want to see Debby before she goes to sleep.

Oh! You haven't said a word about it.

-About what?

-My hat. My new hat.

-What do you think?

-Charming.

-Thank you. I'll be right down.

One thing I know, Julia is absolutely blameless.

-Of course she is.

-You stopped me from joining you.

Julia had a very good time.

-Well, I didn't.

-Hm.

If you'd sent me to Mrs Hamilton, I would have gone.

You didn't. So I represented you with your wife.

Is that part of the normal duties of an...?

..of an angel?

Sometimes, Henry, angels must rush in where fools fear to tread.

I haven't the faintest idea what that means and I don't want it explained.

-You can go now. I've solved my problem.

-Have you?

Mrs Hamilton is giving the money for the cathedral.

That was a foregone conclusion

if you were willing to sacrifice your principles.

Don't you think it's worth it for this glorious edifice?

I'm not so sure of its glory at a time like this.

-Oh, you're not?

-No, Henry, I'm not.

These are lean years for the world.

So many people need food. So many people need shelter.

That big roof could make so many little roofs.

We're dealing with a materialistic, selfish woman.

-She wouldn't listen to that.

-Did you try?

It's all arranged. It's finished.

You came so I could have a cathedral and now I want you to go.

I want you to get out of my life and away from Julia.

Suppose you pray for that? It was your prayer that brought me here.

Mm-mm. Henry, that was no prayer.

It was right from my heart. I want you to go.

-Julia doesn't.

-Julia.

Get out! Get out!

Julia's ready to come down the stairs.

Don't let her see you like that. Try to calm yourself, Henry.

Dudley? Debby wants Dudley to come up and say good night to her.

-Where is he?

-He's gone.

-Where?

-How should I know?

-Why did he leave so suddenly?

-I told him to go away. I fired him.

-Why?

-He's incompetent,

he's no good at his job and I cannot stand the sight of him!

DOOR SLAMS

Mummy, I'm sure that Dudley's never coming back.

-Darling, you must never say never.

-But where is he?

Come here, dear.

Now listen to me. Dudley wouldn't leave us without saying a word.

Besides, he was going to tell you about Santa Claus.

He knows Santa Claus very well.

But it's almost Christmas Eve.

Soon I'll have to go to bed.

He wouldn't leave us without saying a word. Would he, Matilda?

Oh, no, no. That wouldn't be like him. Not like Mr Dudley.

Come along, Debby. I'll get you ready for dinner.

Will you come see me when you get back, Mummy?

Of course, dear.

-Here is a list of your calls. Ending at Mrs Hamilton's.

-Thank you.

Miss Cassaway, here is the manuscript of my Christmas sermon.

I shall want the original and five carbons for issuing to the press.

If you get the typing done before I come back, leave it on my desk.

I'm sorry to keep you so long on Christmas Eve.

Of course, sir. I understand. It must be done.

Henry, I'm ready to start out now.

We go first to the Trubshawes, then the...

-..then we go to the Vandovers.

-Goodbye, Miss Cassaway.

Sylvester!

-Hello, Julia.

-Hello. What are you doing here?

I've been waiting around hoping there'd be another skating party

and I didn't want to miss it. Where's Dudley? Oh, you got a preacher with you.

-This is my...

-Oh, I know!

There's gonna be a wedding ceremony. You and Dudley.

Sylvester, this is my husband, Bishop Brougham.

-How do you do?

-Oh.

-Oh.

-247 North Maple.

247 North Maple.

-Mildred?

-Oh!

Oh, why, Dudley, it's you. I didn't see you...

Where have you been? We've been worrying about you.

-And poor Mrs Brougham...

-What about Mrs Brougham?

She's been popping in and out of here all day asking, "Have you seen Dudley?"

-Where is she?

-She and the bishop had some calls.

Finishing at Mrs Hamilton's.

-Let me type that sermon for you.

-No.

You go on. It's almost Christmas Eve. You must have shopping to do.

-Oh, well...

-Go on, Mildred.

Thank you, Dudley.

-Merry Christmas, Mildred.

-Merry Christmas, Dudley.

Merry... Oh.

Take a sermon.

TYPEWRITER CLICKS

Tonight, I want to tell you the story of an empty stocking.

Once upon a midnight clear, there was a child's cry.

A blazing star hung over a stable and wise men came with birthday gifts.

Have you got that? Good. We haven't forgotten that night down the centuries.

We celebrate it with stars hung on the Christmas tree, bells and gifts,

especially with gifts.

We buy them and wrap them and put them under the tree.

You give me a tie. I give you a book.

Aunt Martha always wanted an orange squeezer.

Uncle Harry can use a new pipe.

Oh, we forget nobody, adult or child.

All the stockings are filled. All, that is, except one.

Oh! Oh...

-I'm sorry, Matilda.

-Oh, Mr Dudley. I knew you'd come back.

-I knew you hadn't walked out on us.

-Of course not.

Debby's been so worried and as for Mrs Brougham...

Well, run upstairs. Tell Debby I'll see her later.

-First I have some work to do.

-I'll tell her.

One moment, please. Mrs Hamilton is expecting you?

No, but she'll wish to see me. I'm the bishop's assistant.

The bishop is expected, but not the assistant.

I told you, Stevens, she'll wish to see me.

Yes.

Yes.

MUSICAL NOTES >

MUSICAL NOTES

HE SINGS A FEW NOTES

"This was composed for you, my darling, and you only. Allan."

Her husband's name was George.

HE HUMS QUIETLY

BOX LOCKS ITSELF

HE BEGINS TO PLAY

Good evening.

That music you were playing.

No-one living but me knows that composition.

It's a shame that only you and I appreciate the lost genius of Allan Cartwright.

-You know about Allan Cartwright?

-Oh, yes.

The world lost a brilliant young composer when he was...when he died.

That was nearly 40 years ago. You couldn't have known him.

I'm much older than you think. Come, let's sit down.

-What is your name?

-My name is Dudley.

But tell me about Allan and you.

Tell me.

Allan Cartwright was the only man I ever loved.

We were engaged to be married and I got frightened.

He had nothing and I was afraid of poverty.

He went away.

I never saw him again.

I never loved George Hamilton.

He was very much in love with me and he was wealthy.

I've spent a fortune honouring his memory in empty monuments.

The Hamilton mansion. Never took a call here.

-What do I owe you?

-No charge. I got nothing better to do.

-Thank you, Sylvester.

-I'll be seeing you, Julia.

There's someone at the door. It's Henry and Julia.

Oh. The bishop. No, I won't. I can't see him now.

-Oh, yes, you will.

-No... Yes.

That's right, Agnes. Just go out and greet them in your usual warm-hearted manner.

The bishop and Mrs Brougham, madam.

Yes.

Oh. You'll stay for dinner, Dudley?

I'm afraid I can't, Agnes. I have a great deal of work to do.

But don't keep Henry and Julia waiting.

-Julia.

-How do you do, Mrs Hamilton?

How nice of you to come and see me.

And Henry. A merry Christmas.

A merry Christmas. Come, let's go into the drawing room.

-Henry?

-Yes, Mrs Hamilton. Merry Christmas.

Come, Henry, we're very old friends. You must call me Agnes.

-And you too, Julia dear.

-Yes. Yes, of course.

Oh.

-But he's gone already.

-Who?

Dudley.

-He was here?

-I should have known it.

-Where did he go?

-He said he had so much work to do.

-You must make him take some rest.

-I've been trying to.

I can't thank you enough for sending him to me. Do sit down.

My dear, meeting Dudley has been the greatest spiritual experience of my life.

-I'm so glad.

-How did you ever find him, Henry?

-It was an accident.

-It was a miracle.

Indeed it was. Talking with this wonderful, understanding man has...

Henry, I've changed my mind about the cathedral.

I'm going to give my money to those who need it.

To the poor and the homeless and the unappreciated people in the city

and all over the world.

And I want you to direct the spending of the money.

-You see what Dudley has done?

-Yes, I see.

-Now you understand...

-Thank you, Mrs Hamilton.

I'll be home later for dinner or something. I don't know what time...

Goodbye.

-Hello, Professor.

-Henry.

Come in, my dear fellow, come in.

-Sit down. Let me take your coat.

-No, thanks.

Not there. Here. This is the only reliable chair.

Well, this is a surprise.

And an honour. We must have a glass of sherry.

-No, thanks.

-I insist. I want to show you something.

You see this bottle? You note that it is full? Now watch.

It's something that even you can't explain

with all your vast ecclesiastical knowledge.

You will observe that it is still full. How do you account for that?

And the sherry itself, it stimulates, it warms, it inspires,

but no matter how much you drink, it never inebriates.

I think I can account for it. Dudley's been here.

Yes. And that bottle isn't all.

He told me things about history that opened my eyes.

Today I went up to the university library

and looked into some ancient texts

which no scholar has been able to decipher.

Suddenly, I found that I could understand them.

And look. This is what I've done thanks to Dudley.

My history. I'm actually writing it.

Let's face it, Henry. This Dudley is no mortal man like the rest of us.

-Is he?

-How did you know?

Well, I can't tell. Who is he? What is he?

-He says he's an angel.

-An angel?

Nothing stopped me from saying it.

-From heaven?

-That I'm not sure about.

-An angel.

Too bad. He's such a nice fellow.

I should have known it. Nothing less than an angel could have put me to work.

I'm glad he's done some good. He's brought nothing but disaster for me.

That's absurd. He and Julia were in here the other day

and she seemed happier than she's been in years.

Quite like her old delightful self.

She's a different person when she's with him.

He's made her despise me.

Are you sure HE has done that?

-You think it's my own fault?

-I didn't say that.

This is a mystery beyond my powers of comprehension.

I suppose I am to blame for everything. I asked for this in more ways than one.

I suppose that Dudley came to me to confirm

that I'd already lost the love of Julia and Debby.

I've got a confession to make, old friend.

You sent me a coin, that was generous of you,

and I was mean enough only to see its commercial value.

-Now I don't know what's happened to it.

-Well, I do. Here it is.

Now where...? Here it is.

-Where did you find it?

-Oh, don't tell me.

Yes. And he told me what it is a museum piece, worth a fortune.

No. I insist you keep it. Give it to Julia as my Christmas present.

It might bring luck to you both.

It seems strange, you being a bishop and I a broken-down old scholar,

but I feel terribly sorry for you.

I wish there was something I could do to help.

-Thank you, but there's nothing.

-There must be.

You and Julia love each other. You always have.

That's only partially true. I love Julia.

-Then fight for her.

-How can I fight against...?

-But you have a tremendous advantage.

-Advantage? Over an angel?

That's precisely it. He's an angel.

Julia is a creature of Earth. She's a woman, Henry, and you are a man.

Isn't it beautiful? And he did every bit of it himself and so quick too.

When I saw it, I couldn't believe my eyes. What a blessing he's been to us.

The tree's lovely, Matilda. Lovely.

I'm glad you like it. It's been years since I've worked on a Christmas tree.

I usually get the more disagreeable jobs.

Good night, Matilda. Sweet dreams.

Thank you, Mr Dudley.

-Julia?

-Yes?

I think my work here is almost finished. I'll have to be moving along.

Oh.

Well... Where will you be going, Dudley?

-Wherever they send me.

-Who are "they"?

My superior officers.

Will we ever see you again?

They seldom send us to the same place twice.