The Little Minister

-Is the new minister married?

-I hear not. What a scramble there'll be among the spinsters.

He's little more than a laddie! I'm thinking he's too small. Where's the reverence?

We should have chosen the long candidate from Aberdeen after all!

No, we got the pick of the lot.

-I tell you, he prays like one giving orders.

-Ah, well, we'll see!

Thank you.

-Does my hat make me look taller?

-Aye, you're almost long today.

Welcome, Mr Dishart. Welcome to the Auld Licht Manse.

Thank you, Mr Carfrae. This is my mother.

-How do you do, Mrs Dishart?

-How do you do?

-Come in.

-Thank you.

Outta ma way, ya pudding-headed policeman!

Will you take a chair?

I hope you will be as happy here as I have been.

It's like a dream.

The first time I entered this room, I decided to cut down that cherry tree because it kept out the light.

It outlives me - I grew old while looking for the axe.

-Yes, Jean?

-There's several folk at the back door. Would you give them water outta the well?

Some of the pumps is locked on account of the dry weather.

Oh... Tell them to help themselves.

There's scarcely enough for ourselves.

I should tell you that three of them is no members of the Auld Licht congregation.

One even belongs to the UP church!

Let that make no difference.

A pail full for Auld Lichts - all other denominations, one cup.

Good day, Mr Dishart.

Gavin! Gavin! Ta think...

It's all come true!

Your own church!

Oh, the years I've lived for this day.

And the sacrifices you've made.

Mother, now you'll have eggs every morning.

You're mistress of Auld Licht Manse!

The Auld Licht Manse!

Gavin, how many rooms are there?

-Five.

-Five?

-Oh, it'll seem large at first but you'll get used to it.

-And you shall have a silk dress with beads on it!

-Gavin, stop!

Not another word do we utter till we say a prayer of thankfulness.

Gavin... Do you think I could have a new bonnet with blue trimmings on it?

My old one wouldna go very well with the silk dress.

You shall have blue feathers if you want.

I entreat you, cherish the goodness that is in your hearts.

Listen to the voice of conscience for it's the safeguard of humanity!

Our text this morning keeps before us the fact

that sinners have the scripture of promise, rebirth and regeneration.

They need never despair,

never be without hope of redemption from the sin in which we're born.

We were all born in sin. Aw!

Come home, Father.

Go away, Micah!

Our sins are never too great regards mercy,

but if a man have many sins or only one sin!

Say it is the sin of drunkenness, and he remains unrepentant,

that sin will utterly consume him!

Does anyone desire to be consumed by drunkenness?

If you're referring to me, Minister, I'd rather consume the drink!

Come forward.

Come forward, Rob Dow!

You hulking man of sin!

Sit on the stair and attend to me

or I'll step down and run you out of the house of God!

Sit down!

And now, my friends...

Again, I remind you...

There is no need to despair.

Up then, poor soul!

Throw off this vile habit dragging you down! It is not too late.

There is yet time to stand four square with the world.

To look your fellow man in the eye and cry, "I too am a man!"

Any man who can bring Rob to his knees is one to be reckoned with.

When Rob interrupted the service, I felt awfy sorry for Mr Dishart

but he didnae need our sympathy.

He disnae lack courage to stand up to a drunken hulk like Rob Dow!

-Aye, Tammas!

-He has the gift!

Thrums is such a quiet-like place.

-They said in Glasgow it was a call from the mouth of hell.

-Cruel words.

There was an ugly outbreak two months ago - manufacturers reduced the price of the web.

-To a town of weavers, it meant starvation.

-What did they do?

Turned on the manufacturers, made a bonfire of their doors.

Six policemen were sent back tied to the seats of their cart.

-Policemen? And no-one has been punished?

-Not yet but the sheriff is canny.

He'll come at night with soldiers and seize the ringleaders in bed.

I cannae see why Widow Henderson disnae give old Sam a headstone.

He left enough money, I'm hearing.

-That's Lord Rintoul's castle.

-Oh.

-Have you ever looked on the lord?

-No.

-Or on the lord's young ladyship?

-No.

-I have.

-Have you?

Rintoul is old and he's to be married to a young ladyship.

Of course, she's no her ladyship yet but they're to be married soon.

So I may say I've seen her ladyship. Aye, it's an impressive sight.

SINGING

Is that singing?

Aye, it is singing surely! And on the Sabbath!

Must be one of them Egyptians in Tarram Wood!

I'll find out who's desecrating the Sabbath day.

SINGING CONTINUES

SHE STARTS SINGING AGAIN

Woman!

It's unlawful for gypsies to be here.

-Have you not read the sheriff's proclamation?

-What?

Have you not read the sheriff's proclamation?

-I dinnae ken how to read.

-I'll read it to you.

"Warning! All gypsies...

"and other wandering vagrants found trespassing in the parish of Thrums,

"will be arrested and summarily dealt with..."

Woman!

-What have you got?

-Fifteen-two and one for the last.

Fifteen two, fifteen four, fifteen six, eight and ten...

Eighteen!

Fifteen two, fifteen four, fifteen six, fifteen eight and eight...

are sixteen! Cribbage is a game of skill, Evalina.

-I wonder where Barbara is?

-Your fiancee has not yet returned from her walk!

Try to accept my betrothal with a little better grace.

-Captain Halliwell and the sheriff to see you.

-Ah!

-Lord Rintoul!

-How do you do?

This is my sister, the Lady Evalina.

We'll teach the weavers they cannot flout the law without suffering the consequences.

-Is everything arranged?

-Yes, we have the names of the ringleaders.

We'll move in after sunset and take them unawares as we did before.

We must be careful - I do not think they intend to be taken again quite so easily.

-I have reason to believe they've made preparations.

-Preparations?

-To resist my men?

-I'm afraid so.

-Rest easy - we shall take them by surprise.

We shall have the offenders in the lockup in no time at all.

Well, I hope so.

-Eh, Mr Dishart?

-Hello, Wearyworld!

-I was just going out for a breath of air.

-Rab Dow's compliments.

-He says if you're not there within an hour, he'll break out the drink again.

-I'll go at once.

-You'll let me go a bit with you?

-Of course.

Till Rab sent me on this errand, not a soul has spoken to me this day.

Many have I spoken to but not a man, woman or bairn would fling me a word.

I've often meant to ask, Wearyworld, why are you so unpopular?

-I'm polis, the first ever in Thrums.

-Didn't the people appoint you?

Aye! They're the ones that look down on me as a disgrace for accepting.

Even my wife is short with me when I've got on my uniform.

-It'll be a consolation you're discharging useful duties.

-I'm no!

Charles Dixon says the sight of my uniform rouses his anger so much,

that it makes him smash windows!

-A peaceable man till I was appointed.

-But they recognise your authority.

They wouldnae even come to the lockup after I lay hands on them.

-Do they say they won't come?

-Catch them saying anything. They give me a whap into the gutters.

-If they spoke, I wouldnae complain. I'm sociable.

-I can see... Evening.

Well, it was pleasant tae crack a word wi' somebody. I'll be on ma rounds now!

Ah, it's a weary world,

when nobody bides you in it.

Micah?

Father put me out! He's been talking and arguing with the deevil for an hour!

Don't be frightened.

Rab...

Oh, it's a weary world.

WOMAN SHOUTS

In the name of the law, did onybody say onything?

Och, it's just a gypsy body. I'm the polis!

-Oh, I didnae ken. Please, Mr Polis, dinnae take me to the lockup. I'll go away.

-No hurry.

Stay and talk and maybe Wearyworld won't be hard on you. Sit doon.

Sit doon.

Never be a polisman, lassie, or you'll have feet like nobody else's.

-Aye, but it's grand work! A great responsibility!

-Och!

-Are ya here in case the soldiers come?

-The sodyers?

I hope I'm a thousand miles away. Ma heart's wi' the weavers but ma duty's wi' the law.

Three blasts of the weaver's horn will loose a bees nest in Thrums.

I'll be in the middle!

Three blasts on the horn?

Aye, a signal horn in the Auld Mill. Everybody knows except the minister.

He's all for peace so nobody tells him.

-You mean the little minister with the twinkle in his eye?

-I mean the Reverend Mr Dishart!

Come along, lassie, and walk with me. Maybe you'll gimme some of your gab.

If that disnae beat all!

Oh... Please, sir, don't hand me to the sheriff. I've lost ma way!

-Oh, perhaps I can help.

-You can if you tell me where the Auld Mill is.

-The Auld Mill?

-Aye, I'm to meet my sweetheart...

I mean my father there.

I cannae even find the place.

I pass it on my way. I'll direct you.

Oh, you're kind, sir.

I say...

I take it you must be the new little minister I hear talk about.

I'm the new minister.

-Do they say "little" minister?

-No, that was my fault. It popped out.

It wasnae meant uncomplimentary. You're just the size I like.

Oh, they say bonnie things about you. That is, the lassies do.

Would you like to hear?

I didnae hear you. You would or you wouldna?

-I've said nothing.

-I don't want to tell you if you dinnae want to hear.

They say you're against the weavers fighting the soldiers if they come.

-I'm against fighting.

-Even when they're right?

-Fighting won't help.

Here's the mill.

Yo!

They're not here but they've left the horn.

It's our way of calling each other - they'll be looking for me.

HORN DOESN'T SOUND

Give it a blow so they'll find me.

Can't you blow yourself? It's your way of calling each other.

But I'm fair out of breath from taking such long strides.

It's hard for a lassie to keep up wi' a man.

SHORT BLAST

-There.

-Now that was barely a toot. Could you blow a wee bit louder?

It takes a strong man to blow a lusty blast!

-I am a strong man!

-Aye, sir!

LOUD BLAST

-They must have heard that.

-Again.

-No, that must suffice.

-If you're tired...

-Tired?

LONG, LOUD BLAST

That was grand.

-DRUMS

-What's that?

That's them. Goodbye and thank you.

DRUMS DROWN SPEECH

Hurry!

Hurry, we need you here!

Hello, doctor. You'll be proud of me this night.

If you're wise, you'll go home.

Hey, hey, hey, McCallum...! Hey, Mrs MacIntosh...!

Throw away your weapons! It's ma duty to arrest any man wi' a weapon.

Go home and go to bed!

You'll find your comrades gathered at the brae.

-What's happening?

-The soldiers are coming!

And mind you, let no man tell the name of any that took part in the last riots!

Remember, you're all dumb cretins and don't know who tied the policemen to the cart.

Andrew Struthers...! Rob Dow...!

Snecky Hobort...! Hendry Munn...! Tammas Whammond...!

And all of you who are Auld Lichts! Lay down your weapons!

Let me have my fling this night and I'll bide sober for 12 months!

Oh, Rob! Rob!

You're the man I prayed with an hour ago.

Aye... Down with your weapons or I'll brain you wi' 'em!

Aye, lay them doon but keep your feet on them.

If you fight, your wives and children may be shot in the streets.

The soldiers come for a dozen. Will you benefit if they take a hundred?

Aye, harken to him!

-There's the gypsy.

-Aye, she'll tell us.

If I was a man, I wouldnae get caught like a mouse in a trap.

-How dare you!

-What kind of women let men go to jail when a bold front can lead them to safety?

-This abandoned woman is inciting you to riot.

-You know I wish you well. There's not much time.

-The soldiers will be here afore you know it.

-Don't listen!

-She tells the truth!

You all run in different directions, you're lost.

If you keep together, you can force a way into the country and scatter.

-A good plot.

-That's what to do.

-No! The truth is not this wicked woman.

The soldiers! The soldiers are coming!

They're here!

-You see! You see!

-Lay down your weapons!

-Come along! Follow me!

Women! Get stones! The bigger, the better!

-See how she flouted me?

-I did.

Charge when I give the order...! Now!

-Men get ready to run! Women, dinnae go till I say!

-They'll fire!

-Dinnae fear!

Let fly!

Don't fling your stones!

Turn them down the brae!

Advance and hem them in.

Oh, if I could only fling straight. Here, get him!

-Woman!

-You're a dear!

Only six prisoners, your Lordship.

It's all been a fiasco because you did not take them by surprise!

-The soldiers wouldn't spread it.

-They didn't know their destination.

We'll find out something when we lay our hands on that gypsy.

Lord Rintoul?

-Yes?

-I am Gavin Dishart, the Auld Licht minister.

I am happy to know you, Mr Dishart.

-This is the sheriff and Captain Halliwell.

-How do you do?

-You did well tonight in the interest of peace and order.

-Thank you.

I'm afraid the gypsy had more influence than I had.

-You don't happen to know who gave the warning signal?

-Signal? What signal?

-The horn. Three blasts of the horn.

-Horn...

Three blasts...

No.

I didn't know.

-You look very tired, Mr Dishart.

-Yes... Yes, I am.

I came to ask you to be as lenient as you can with these men you've arrested.

They're so easily misled...

As we all are.

They will not be dealt with too harshly.

-They must learn not to throw stones at soldiers.

-You're right, of course.

-If you pardon me, I shall go.

-Good night, Mr Dishart.

-Good night.

-And let me thank you again for all you did for us tonight. You set a wonderful example.

-Thank you.

Halt!

-UPPER-CLASS ACCENT:

-The soldiers, dear.

It's you, Mr Dishart and your lady. No-one passes unless we know who they are.

-You haven't found the gypsy?

-We'll get her soon.

I thought I might help these people but I can do so little.

-Well, your husband...

-Uh...

-Did you say something?

-Yes...

-I agree. We needn't detain the captain.

I'm only a sergeant, ma'am.

-Oh, and how long are you to remain in Thrums?

-A few hours.

If it were not for the gypsy, we'd be gone.

She'll never slip through your fingers.

-Sergeant, I must...

-Indeed, dear. You're tired.

-Good night.

-Your servant, Mrs Dishart.

-But...

-Come, love.

You, woman!

-It was beautiful!

-It was iniquitous.

-And I, a minister!

-You can't help that!

-No blame attaches to me.

-No, you couldn't help being a minister.

-You could help me. Thank you so much.

-Don't dare thank me. I forbid it.

Why didn't you hand me over then? I didn't have my hand over your mouth.

It's all over and no-one will know. You're not angry with me, are you?

-Angry...!

-I was afraid you were.

No, they're not gone. It's not too late. Why don't you shout to them?

I do not understand you.

In the square, you spoke broadly.

-You fling a cloak on and you're a lady.

-Maybe the cloak bewitched me.

Aye, it was just the cloak! For noo, I'm a pair ignorant lassie again.

My certy but claithes does make a difference to a woman.

-This is sheer levity.

-Goodbye! If you're not to give me up.

-I'm not a policeman.

-Surely we part friends then?

-No!

-I hope never to see your face again.

-I cannot help you not liking my face but there's mud on your own.

-Soldiers on the hill. I cannae escape.

-There's no other way.

-Help me again.

Why do you do that?

-She'll see us.

-She? Oh, your...

-My mother.

Oh, only your mother?

Only? She may suffer more than you for your behaviour.

-How?

-If you're caught, won't they discover I helped?

-You said you didn't.

Yes, I helped you.

What would they say if they knew you'd called yourself my wife?

-I'm sorry.

-It's not the punishment from men I'm afraid of...

But from my conscience.

No, that's not true. I do fear exposure for my mother's sake.

She's had such trials as you cannot know of.

Now when I'm able to do something for her, you destroy her happiness.

You have her life in your hands.

-Where are you going?

-To give myself up. Don't worry - I'll clear you.

Stop!

Hide in the manse garden - nobody will look for you there.

-You're a good man. I like you.

-Don't say that.

-Here's the summer seat.

-I believe you've liked me all the time.

Can a man like a woman against his will?

Of course he can. That's the nicest way to be liked.

Good night.

You will find my text in the book of Ezra.

The eighth chapter.

Stop making a windmill of your Bible.

That's Chronicles.

There is Ruth when she isn't wanted. But it looks as if Ezra had jumped clean out of the Bible.

You will find my text in Genesis.

The fall of man through the temptation of woman.

"When woman saw the tree was good for food and pleasant to the eye,

"she took of the fruit thereof and did eat and gave also to her husband and he did eat."

Until a woman ate of the tree of good and evil, there was no sin in the world.

Adam was an erring man,

but beside Eve, he was respectable.

This errand wouldn't seem so unpleasant to you if you smoked.

Going to the poor house is bitter medicine for old Nanny or any woman to take.

After all, the poor house is not a jail.

Am I deaf in my left ear too?

Mr Dishart...

Were you ever in love?

Never!

Well, well! Don't terrify the horse!

Maybe I should have come alone.

If you pray, she's sure to break down.

-Couldn't you pray cheerfully?

-You don't look very cheerful yourself.

Nonsense! I have no patience with false sentiments.

-Nanny, see! I've brought Mr Dishart with me.

-Thank you kindly, sirs.

-Please take a chair.

-No, Nanny, it's best we go at once.

-No! No!

Nanny, remember what I told you about the poor.

-The place is a fine house and you'll be happy in it.

-Aye, I'll be happy.

If I could just stay here though I wasnae happy.

-Think of the fine food - broth every day.

-It'll be terrible enjoyable.

There'll always be pleasant company.

-After you've been there a week, you won't be the same woman.

-That's it - I'll be a woman of the poor race.

Oh, Mither, Mither!

You little thought when you bore me, that I would come to this.

Well, we must go. Put on your cap, Nanny.

I dinnae need to put on a cap.

I've got a bonnet.

Are you sure there's nobody looking?

Nobody in sight, Nanny.

I'm a base woman no tae be thankful tae them that's been so good to me.

Oh, Mither! I wish terrible they'd come and taken me at night.

This is more than I can stand.

I've tried ye, sir, but oh, I'm grateful.

And I'm ready now.

I cannae help it.

Have pity on her, oh, God.

Oh, God, do you mind?

-This is no place for you.

-Oh... They're taking me to the poor house.

-Dinnae let them.

-How dare you!

-You don't see.

-I see two men dragging a poor, weak woman away.

You poor dear! I won't let them take you away. Go!

-Sympathy is not what she needs.

-And you who live in luxury would send her to the poor house.

Mr Dishart gives much to the poor - he won't be preached to by a gypsy.

-We're waiting for you, Nanny.

-Aye, I'm coming. I have to go, lassie.

No, you're not going. It's these men who are going. Go and leave us.

-And you will take care of Nanny...

-Aye!

-Where's the money coming from?

-Oh, the money... I'd forgotten...

-Seven shillings a week!

-Oh... Is that all?

-She shall have it.

-When?

-At once!

No, it's no possible tonight but I'll bring five pounds tomorrow.

No, I'll send it. No, you must come for it.

You will meet me Tuesday this hour at the Auld Mill.

How can a vagrant have five pounds when she hasn't five shillings?

Look at my ring!

Do you know its value?

There's a quirk in this.

Mr Dishart, give Nanny your arm. I'll carry the box.

Unless you trust this woman's word!

You do trust me.

Yes... I trust you.

You daren't meet this gypsy! What'll they say in Thrums? Send someone.

No...

He must come himself... Alone!

So be it! I hope her stocking is full of gold for your sake, Nanny.

Now that I'm here, I'll make a call down the road.

Will you come, Mr Dishart?

-No, I'll walk home, doctor.

-Well, will you come outside a minute?

Who is she? You saw how easily she put the Scotch tongue on and off.

She's as much a mystery to me as she is to you.

I dare say she's a wealthy gypsy from the south.

They're said to have a very grand manner when they like.

A man's second childhood begins when a woman gets hold of him.

Oh, don't alarm yourself about me, doctor.

Ah, well! Good luck.

But be wary.

Nanny and I are having a cup of tea.

-Do you think we should invite the minister?

-We couldna dare!

Excuse her for the presumption.

-Dinnae be so free - he's the Auld Licht minister!

-Oh!

-There isn't any water.

-Well, get some.

Lassie, mind who you're speaking tae! To send a minister to the well?

I will go.

-Where's the well?

-Give me the pitcher, Mr Dishart.

What talk there would be if you were seen.

Don't you think so?

-Nanny, how can you follow our conversation when you listen only to Mr Dishart?

-What?

-She was saying...

-I was saying he's married.

-He has no wife.

No? I did wonder at any mere woman daring to marry such a minister.

One of the soldiers told me about his wife. Mr Dishart introduced her.

Sodyers? Never trust a sodyer, lassie.

-Nanny, I was told that she was rather like me.

-Heaven forbid!

-What?

I'm no meaning you're no the bonniest lass I ever saw,

but you'd know his contempt for bonny faces if you'd heard his sermon.

-Excellent cup of tea.

-When did he preach against women?

-Oh, it was long ago.

-It was the Sabbath after the sodyers were here.

-The day you changed your text.

-I forbid you to repeat that story.

-Why did you change text, Mr Dishart?

-I...

I suddenly thought of a better one.

-Well, I must go.

-I too.

-Which way do you take?

-Not yours. I go into the wood and vanish.

-Good day.

-Thank you for your kindness. I have peace to the end of my days. I wish the same to you.

I've read my fortune, Nanny, and there's not much happiness in it.

-I hope that's not true.

-Do you really care?

-Yes, I care.

-Because you don't know me.

-Because I do know you.

Well you misunderstand me less than those that have known me longer.

-Babbie...

-I'm glad to hear you say that.

I thought you didn't really like me as you never called me by my name.

That wasn't so. I dare not say your name or I would have said more...

Oh, I was wrong. You don't understand me at all.

Oh, good day, Nanny. As soon as I have the money, I'll bring it to you.

Oh, what a pity he's a minister!

Rob, you're just in time to hear a query about the minister.

Mr Dishart has fallen in... What do they call it, Henry?

In love.

Now we know what he was doing yesterday.

Who's the woman?

Aye, who is she?

-If we only knew!

-That's what we've been asking.

If you ken nothing about her, how do you ken she exists?

We know all about her, except who she is.

We also know the minister's acting strange.

I saw him come out of the manse and walk right into a gooseberry bush.

I saw him come down the school road this morning and the wind blew off his hat.

-The wind's always looking for hats.

-But I dinnae like the way he ran after it.

He couldnae afford to lose his hat!

Aye, but he should've run after it more reverently - not that I'm criticising!

Criticising! You Auld Lichts make an idol of the man.

It's true...

Aye, but we canna help it.

Yet if he were to be led astray, I'd be the first to cut him out of my heart.

I'd rise against him

and the whole congregation would rise wi' me and pronounce his doom.

Tod, man, you make me shiver tae the marrow.

Yes, I believe in you,

but henceforth you must send your money to Nanny by another messenger.

You're a gypsy and I'm a minister.

I refuse to see you again.

I'm not angry with you but as a minister...

SINGING

What are you doing up there? Come down at once.

# Come doon, come doon, Lady Margaret, he said... #

If you don't come and give me what I came for...

# I wouldnae kiss thee, great Argyll I wouldnae kiss thee fairly... #

You've brought me here to make fun of me.

I'm coming doon and I've got the money.

Did you know you were speaking to yourself?

You're mistaken. I was speaking to you.

-There's a difference between gypsies and ministers.

-But I'll overlook it.

I cannot allow you to talk disrespectfully of my calling.

-It's the highest a man can follow.

-One must be clever to be a minister.

-Oh...

-It must be nice to speak to people who cannot answer or leave.

Is it true that before you start to preach, you lock the door to keep the congregation in?

I must leave if you talk that way.

Well, I... I only wanted to know.

Tell me who you are, Babbie.

-I want to know your people, your father and mother.

-Why?

Because I like their daughter.

You are really good but you will never know my parents.

-Are they dead?

-Maybe.

But the time has come when I must know everything of you there is.

-You're no gypsy.

-No?

-That dress is but a disguise.

-Oh...

-Where did you get the ring?

-Why...

-Tell me. I must know.

-Must know?

-Where did you get the ring?

-Good afternoon to you.

It's not good afternoon. It's goodbye unless you answer.

As you please. I will not tell where I got my ring - it's no affair of yours.

Yes, Babbie, it is.

Well?

I thought you were going?

I was...brushing my hat. Do you want me to go?

-You can go if you like.

-But you said...

No, I didn't.

You... You're crying!

Because you're so unfeeling.

-What have I said? What have I done? I should have gone away.

-Oh...

You're hard-hearted and cruel.

-What have I done?

-You wished you'd gone away.

-You asked me to go.

-How can you say that? Oh!

-I thought you did.

Now you're unhappy. Babbie, I'm a hopeless lout.

-No, you're really not.

-Babbie...

I...

-I've never kissed a woman before.

-Before what, Little Minister?

Oh...

Oh!

Oh...!

If I were a man, I'd choose to be everything I'm not and nothing I am.

I would scorn to be a liar. I would fight the world honestly but...

But I'm only a woman and so...

-That's the kind of man I'd like to marry.

-A minister may be all that.

-He could not spend his days in idleness.

-I do not.

-He must be a leader.

-Ministers are.

-Makes his influence felt.

-Assuredly.

-Takes the side of the weak against the strong.

-Always.

-Has a mind of his own in front of...

-His congregation.

-He must understand.

-I do.

-Make me do his bidding. Thrash me.

-If you won't listen.

-Not be tempted.

-Weakness.

-He must be my master.

-Your lord and master. Babbie... I am that man.

If you'd come home, the minister wouldna ken you took a wee dram.

I don't care what the minister kens.

He's no the man I thought him. Be off with ye.

This is what your conversion amounts to!

All Mr Dishart has done for you! You should run past the public houses.

-It's him sends me running to them.

-Why are you speaking against the minister?

-Say that again and I'll do to you what I intend for her.

-Who is she?

-Who is what?

-The woman that the minister...

-Nothing aboot a woman.

-I'll swear I never saw them together at the Auld Mill.

-The Auld Mill?

Poof! You only mean the Egyptian.

Make your mind easy about this, Rob.

-I know he met her.

-He's bewitched!

I saw him try to put his arms around her at the Auld Mill.

No, doctor. I'm drunk. Roaring drunk. It wasnae the minister I saw.

It was another man.

HE MUMBLES

Was that lightning?

-There won't be any more.

-Good night.

-Good night.

-Don't sit up any later.

-No.

-Babbie, what is it?

-Nothing.

I must go.

Babbie, what's happened to bring you here at this hour?

-I thought that you'd be glad to see me.

-I'm very sorry to see you.

Then I'll go at once.

-Yes, you must go at once.

-Then I won't.

-Yes, you will.

Henceforth, you must do as I see fit.

Since when have you taken command of me?

-Since a moment ago when you let me kiss you.

-Let you?

Oh, you did it yourself.

I was very angry.

No, you were not.

Come... I'll carry the lantern.

You're not going with me.

-But I am.

-Oh, but I won't let you.

-When I say I'm going, I mean I'm going. Take my arm.

-No, I won't.

Take my arm.

-Your hat!

-What?

-Your...

Oh!

-Don't you care?

-No.

-Oh, dear.

-Wait, I see someone coming.

-I've seen him for some time.

There'll be an uproar if he sees us.

-I cannot help that.

-But why should you suffer for me?

You're mine.

Mr Dishart?

Good evening, doctor.

-I met Mr Dishart...

-You must wonder why we're here.

-You needn't explain. I'm not your congregation.

-That's true. I'll explain nothing.

If you're going past Nanny's cottage, can I walk with you to save Mr Dishart the trouble?

Aye, I'm going past Nanny's. Take my arm.

Tomorrow, dear... I'll come to Nanny's after church.

Good night, Mr Dishart.

-You love him too.

-I do that.

There's trouble ahead for him if he's tangled up with you.

CHURCH BELL RINGS

G-A-V-I-N - Gavin Dishart.

Babbie Dishart...

Oh, the very, very, very, very, very, very, very reverend Mrs Gavin Dishart.

< SOBBING

Why are you crying, laddie?

I'm no crying.

What's your name?

Micah's my name and Rob Dow's my father.

And he's taken to the drink again.

-What are you doing up there?

-I'm wishing.

-It's a wishing stone.

-You're wishing your father wouldnae drink.

Nah, I'm no. There was a lang time he didnae drink.

But the woman led him to it again.

It's about her that I'm wishing.

I'm wishing she was dead.

What woman?

I dinnae ken. But she's a bad one.

-Did you never see her in your house?

-No, if she ever came there,

he would break her over his knee.

But how can she have such power over him?

-It's no him that she has hold of.

-Who is it?

-It's Mr Dishart.

How could that send your father to the drink?

Because my father's terrible fond of him.

When the folk find out about the woman, they'll stone the minister out of Thrums.

Why do you run from me?

I'm feared of you. You're the woman.

What makes you think that?

Because you're so bonny.

You might go away if you kenned what a difference Mr Dishart made in my father.

How have you such an ill will at the minister?

If any shame comes to the minister, his old mother will die.

I'll give you my rabbit if you'll go away.

I've just the one.

Oh, well... I'll give you them both

though I'm might sorry to part with Spotty.

Keep your rabbits, laddie and cry no more. I'm going away.

And you'll never come back no more, all your life?

Never no more, all my life.

And you'll leave the minister alone forever and ever?

Forever and ever.

-We could go to Paris and go to the opera.

-Is this a secret, Barbara?

Nothing at all, Evalina.

I was merely saying Paris would be a wonderful place for a honeymoon.

-Paris is a long way off.

-And so, alas, is our honeymoon.

It needn't be.

Oh...

Do you mean, sir, that I may marry you tomorrow if I wish?

-I do, Barbara.

-Then I accept.

An unseemly subject about which to jest.

-I was not jesting.

-Nor am I, Evalina.

I think we've delayed long enough.

Why shouldn't we be married soon? Not tomorrow, naturally, but...

..in a fortnight, say.

Oh, please don't object.

Everything can easily be got ready and it is so dreary waiting.

If my brother wishes to rush into marriage, it's no concern of mine.

Are you really impatient to marry me?

-Aren't you impatient to be away from here yourself?

-Yes, I am.

Marry me in a fortnight, Barbara.

In a fortnight, in a fortnight, in a fortnight, I'll marry you!

-We can put Rob Dow in jail for this.

-I was trying but he wouldnae come.

Good day, doctor.

-How are you, Tammas?

-Would you like to see the bump on ma heed?

What can I do for you, Tammas?

Nothing for me, doctor.

But the elders of Auld Licht think you should call upon Mr Dishart.

He's no very well.

-What's the matter?

-That's for you to tell us.

It might be overwork, then again, it might not.

If it's serious, he'll send for me.

-He doesnae think he's sick.

-Perhaps he isn't.

If he isnae, he's in a worse state. I only hope he is sick.

I'll come back and explain meself later when you're alone.

Huh! He doesnae want me tae hear but I could tell him more than he could tell me.

-What can you tell about Mr Dishart?

-Two nights ago in Carron Wood,

I heard the minister ask the gypsy chief if he knew the whereabouts of the Egyptian woman.

He called her Babbie.

-See that?

-Aye.

-If you repeat that to anybody, I'll cut your throat. Understand?

How could I repeat it, doctor? Nobody speaks or listens tae me!

Me lord, you shouldnae come in here.

It's bad luck to see the wedding gown before the ceremony.

I couldn't wait to see how you'd look tomorrow. It's lovely.

Well...

I'm sorry.

You're tired, my dear. I'll sew the flowers on later.

I'll help with your dress.

No, I can do it myself.

DOOR CLOSES

-SHE WHISPERS:

-Nanny!

Mercy! Have you risen from the dead?

Hello, Nanny!

I've brought money. You haven't gone without?

-No, Mr Dishart's been here every day you've been away.

-How is he?

Well, I don't know how to say it but something has come over the minister.

He's no himself.

The whole town's noticed it. Some try to say it's a woman.

But I cannae believe that in him, such a scholar. Can you?

You're crying!

Lassie, what has come over ye?

Nothing, it's just that I'm going away and I won't see you again.

Is it me or is it...?

Babbie! Don't tell me you've got over fond of Mr Dishart!

My poor lassie!

What does it matter who he is when ya cannae help it?

Babbie...

-Does the minister...?

-No! Nanny, please!

Oh, dear, oh, dear.

That's it... He loves you too, Babbie.

No, you'll never see me again.

Goodbye. I'll not forget you.

-Goodbye.

-Goodbye.

-Mr Dishart!

-Mr Dishart?

-He must not see me.

Go outside and don't let him come in. Hurry!

-Good evening, Nanny.

-Why, Mr Dishart. Good evening.

-It's time you put that up for the day? I'll help you in.

-No, no, sir.

-You'll no mind if I go on with my work for a while.

-Of course not.

I'll just sit here and rest a few minutes.

-Nanny, what do you think has become of her?

-Who?

You mean the gypsy? Where do the flies vanish to in the winter?

Those buddies cannae be happy in one place for long.

But she was different.

Aye, she was that.

She was only a gypsy. You cannae get away from that.

Yes, she was only a gypsy girl.

But I'd hoped she would be my wife.

Mr Dishart! BELLS RING

That's my prayer meeting. Good night, Nanny.

Oh, Lord. You cannae mean for them to bury their youth so soon.

Look at me!

What is anything when you're old without somebody?

Mr Dishart!

Yes, Nanny?

What is it?

Eh...

My wheel... Would you mind?

Of course not.

How was he? Did he ask about...?

Babbie!

-No...

-Why did you leave me? You cannot know what I've gone through!

-I must tell you...

-Tell me you love me first.

-You won't ask that when I tell you I'm to be married tomorrow.

Married.

I'm to be married to Lord Rintoul.

You...

Can't you just say that you'll try to forgive me before I go?

Won't you even look at me?

Not that way.

I meant no harm. I swear I didn't.

I didnae even know what I was doing until it was too late and then I meant never to see you again.

When I came into your life, I was wild and careless.

So little heeding, I never even dreamed.

You don't blame the birds when their song comes for a moment between you and your work.

You smile and forgive them.

Let it be that way with me.

It's myself I cannot forgive.

I have been a dull-witted fool.

-I cannot understand why you acted so strangely - the gypsy clothes...

-I have no wish to excuse myself...

Have you ever seen gypsy carts with hammocks in which gypsy children are carried?

That was the only cradle I've known.

One day I suppose the road was rough for I was thrown out.

I remember picking myself up and running after the cart.

They didn't hear my cries or if they did, they didn't come back.

I like to think Mother did come back but left when she saw I was in better hands.

It was Lord Rintoul who found me.

And so I owe everything to him.

He took me home on his horse and paid his gardener's wife to rear me.

Afterwards, he sent me to fine schools.

He's lavished everything upon me.

He has been very kind to you.

Yes, he's been very kind to me.

And so, I am to marry him.

Does he love you?

No...

He doesn't know what love is.

Nor did I...until...

-You were laughing at me all the time.

-Oh, no!

At first but not afterwards.

You never cared for me at all.

Always... Always since I first knew what love was.

And it was you who taught me.

That night in the manse garden... Do you remember?

I knew that I could never again be altogether unhappy.

All my life I would have that to remember.

And when I went away...

so that I would not bring disgrace and wretchedness upon you or your mother,

I was strong.

Your love had made me strong.

I'm going now.

Don't think of me as unhappy.

It will be happiness for me to try to be all that you thought I was.

Your face will always come between me and ungenerous thoughts...

Babbie... I cannot let you go.

Don't tell me that you love me still? Oh, Gavin... Do you?

We'll go to Lord Rintoul. He will release you when he hears of me.

-He'll turn the town against you. He has influence.

-I can defend myself.

Nothing but duty of the highest kind could keep Mr Dishart so long.

Aye, but, Snecky, I dinnae like it.

-Why, Mrs McLaren!

-My John's got to be at work at five in the morning.

-We cannae wait long.

-Aye, come along.

-Did Mr Dishart have calls to make after his tea?

-I don't know. He wisnae home for tea.

-He wisnae home? I'm thinkin' there's something to the talk...

-What talk?

I've heard no talk and I'll cut the tongue out of any man who has,

-so that he'd no repeat it!

-I only heard of a man that did hear of it.

KNOCKING

It's Sam! He saw the minister! Come in here.

What's he doin' here? He's no Auld Licht!

The minister came to his place ten minutes ago to hire a carriage.

-Carriage?

-Aye.

-While we're waiting!

Where did he go? Sam cannae tell. He wouldnae let a horse out on a night like this.

Most likely he was on some errand of mercy.

Aye, but Sam said he had a woman with him.

I see nothing to do but to dismiss the congregation and notify Mr Dishart the pulpit is vacant.

He can hardly explain his actions to our satisfaction.

-Mr Whammond, don't be hasty. Maybe it's no his fault!

-Mind your place!

-Putting yourself on an equal with the elders of this kirk!

-Have mercy!

-God himself wid gae him a second chance!

-Rob Dow, what can you know of the ways of God?

-That's true...

I know little but, Mr Whammond, you know!

Why should he be punished for what's no his fault? It's the gypsy!

-I saw her!

-With Mr Dishart?

-Where?

-No, I didnae...

-Out wi' it!

-Or as chief elder of this kirk, I say it'll be worse for him.

-Um...

-You saw them together.

-He didnae have his arms round her. It was her wrapping her coils round him.

-He had his arms around...

-It was her!

-The Egyptian woman...

-Quiet!

Hendry Munn, as Chief Elder of this kirk, I command you to go and dismiss the congregation.

I hereby pronounce this congregation dismissed while the session prepares to do its duty.

Jean Proctor! It's a terrible thing they're sayin' agin the minister.

-Dae they ken the woman's name?

-Leave me be!

-You've no right to talk like that!

-Easy! Remember I'm the polis!

The impudent baggage!

-But I'd rather go with you. Please!

-Wait at the manse till I get back.

-Doctor McQueen has offered me his carriage many times...

-Mr Dishart!

Have you not forgot your prayer meeting?

-Prayer meeting...

-Half of them's gone home.

-Yes...

-Did you have a prayer meeting?

-Yes, but I'll go...

-You must go at once!

-If you think this is a storm...

-Come, dear...

Go to the church immediately for my sake. Please!

-Wearyworld will go with you.

-Aye.

-Hurry.

-You'll wait for me?

-Aye.

-I'll not be long.

Och!

It's a weary world and women are the most uncanniest things in it!

KNOCKING

-Mrs Dishart?

-No, she's...

What did you want?

Who are you?

Um... I'm a friend of Mr Dishart.

He told me to wait for him here.

-Where's the minister?

-He's gone over to his church.

It's true then, what they say - he was wi' you!

-How could you let him stay away from his prayer meeting?

-I didn't know.

Do you think if I had known, I...

I love him.

I could near believe it from the look in your eyes and yet...

-Have you no heard he's been put out of his church?

-Oh, no...

But he's done nothing wrong.

-I'll go and tell them...

-No, don't! They'd never listen to you!

Who is it, Jean?

-It's just somebody to see the minister, ma'am.

-I'll be right down.

If we could only keep it from her.

-She'll have to know but...

-Tell her never to mind. I couldnae wait.

Good evening.

-I'm Mrs Dishart, the minister's mother.

-How do you do?

Isn't it a dreadful night?

Put on the kettle, Jean.

He won't be long. His meeting is over or Jean would not be back.

Child, you're shivering and wet.

Come in here by the fire. Jean will be in with the tea directly.

Oh, let me have that wet cape.

Sit here. I'll have Jean dry this.

Child...

Why, you're crying!

Now, now... Don't do that!

Mrs Dishart...

What if I were to tell you that you were no longer to be the mistress of this manse?

And that it was because of me?

You're the girl my son loves.

Oh, I think I almost knew it in my heart when I first saw you.

I have so wondered what you would be like.

-Has he told you about me?

-No.

But when a young man tells his mother that if the right girl comes along,

he will marry so that she'll have a daughter to love and care for her too,

the mother knows that the right girl isn't so very far away.

Gavin will tell you, my prayers have ever been for his happiness.

In that, I will see my own.

Good evening, Mr Whammond. The minister is no home.

-Are you sure?

-Aye, I'm sure.

- Where is he? - He's gone to the church.

-How do you know?

-It's what he said.

- Was anybody wi' him? - No, no, Mr Whammond.

If he's no at the kirk, we'll be back, Jean Proctor - we'll have words wi' him this night!

I could swear I heard somebody talking inside.

We'll have a look through the window.

-Who was it, Jean?

-I... Oh...

It was... It was Mr Whammond, ma'am,

to say the minister would be late at church.

And he came through all this rain to tell me - the chief elder.

Why didn't you ask him in?

-He... He seemed to be in a terrible hurry, ma'am.

-That's a pity.

-Jean!

-Aye, ma'am - the blind was up a bit and I thought...

Upstairs, on the top shelf of my wardrobe, you'll find a wee box.

Wait, I think I'd better go.

-No, please, it's getting late. Some other time.

-It won't take a minute.

I want you to see how light his hair used to be.

They're oot there.

-It's her!

-It's the woman!

-In our manse!

She's terrible grand for a gypsy.

-Did you see that dress?

-I'm thinking she stole it.

-Aye.

-What'll we do? It'll kill her!

-Keep her from coming down.

-I'll get rid of them.

-What can I say to her?

-Anything. Hurry.

Won't you come in?

Jean is upstairs with Mrs Dishart so I answered the door for her.

Please come in.

The cheek of her!

I'll have the fire nice and bright for you in a minute.

There's nothing like a nice fire when you've been oot in the rain.

Woman, what are you doing here?

The minister was kind enough to give me shelter out of the rain.

-He's no longer minister.

-Nor does he have the right to be here.

-Where is he?

He has gone to the church to explain to you why he was not at his prayer meeting.

We know why!

Do you deny he had his arms around you?

See! We know everything.

No, you don't.

If you did, you'd know we've done nothing to be ashamed of.

Aye, we're well aware that you have no shame.

But the minister...

-Making lovers meetings stealthily by night with a...

-That's not true!

You should not need to be told that he is incapable of such a thing!

And there's something more you ought to know!

-I am...

-Silence, woman!

You tell an elder of the kirk for six and twenty years what he ought to know?

-Where's Mrs Dishart? I'll have the keys.

-Oh, no!

-At least let her hear it from his own lips - it will not sound so cruel.

-I must do my duty!

-Out of my way, woman.

-No!

-Would you have be dishonoured in the sight of God?

-Dishonoured?

Because you might permit your heart to rule your stubborn mind?

-Or refrain from destroying this woman's happiness?

-She's coming!

-I couldnae keep her longer.

-Please, I'm sorry for what I've said.

I know you must be a kind man.

Don't tell her in the night. Tell her tomorrow.

Give her one more happy night. I'll go away...

She's coming.

Oh, Mr Whammond! Did the rain drive you back?

Put this on. It'll keep you warm.

-You shouldn't come on a night like this to relieve my mind.

-I didnae come to relieve your mind!

-Mr Munn!

And Mr Spens! I know it wasn't for me but for my son.

But, Mr Whammond, is that going to make me think the less of you?

Here, give me your things.

-Na, I cannae stop.

-I've something I want you to see.

I brought it to show the young lady.

I know you'll be interested too. Come and sit down.

Here, Mr Whammond -

in the minister's chair.

It's no intended for me to sit in the minister's chair.

The mantle of Chief Elder has been wrapped round me. I must do my duty.

Aye, the minister's always telling me how he couldn't do his work without you.

Mrs Dishart... Your son may be all the earth to you, but my eldership is as much to me.

Of course! Not everybody can be a minister,

but I know well a chief elder's work is just as worthy in the Lord's sight.

Of course, it doesn't require the education.

Oh, you must be cold.

-I'll have Jean bring you some tea.

-Na, na...

-Thank you.

I was wrong.

You're a good man.

-Silence, woman!

-What came over you?

-Why did you no speak out?

Quiet! Did you no see how I struggled to bring out the words?

Na, it's no true.

My mouth snappit shut like a box.

Tammas Whammond has been unfaithful.

Six and twenty years have I been an elder of the kirk in God's service.

And don't you think he stood closer to you the last five minutes than in all those six and twenty years?

Hold yer peace, wumin!

-I'll make amends.

-Dinnae let her get a start this time.

-Dinnae let her put a cup of tea in your hand.

-Just say it.

I know what to say!

It's the saying of it.

Mr Dishart, I cannae neglect my duty!

-Your duty's to the minister! Unlock that door!

-I will not.

-A knife!

-Open the door, Peter Tosh, before I open your neck!

-Rob, don't...!

Mr Whammond! Mr Whammond! Tammas!

-What is it?

-It's the minister.

-The minister? What's happened?

-Peter Tosh was locking up the kirk when the minister came.

-What is it?

The minister demanded that Peter open the door.

Rob Dow, holding a knife, shouts, "Open that door or I'll open your neck!"

-Did nobody stop him?

-The minister.

-He tried.

Where is he? Where is he?

-They have to take it slow.

-Have you got the doctor?

-Where's his mother?

Here he comes.

Put me down.

Now then, you're here to accuse me.

So out with it - there is no need to spare me.

Tonight I was seen in the company of this lady when I should have been at my church.

I may have seemed to sin against you but believe me...

what happened is not for you or any man to judge.

All I can say is...

this is the woman of my choice.

She's not what you think.

But if she were, it would make no difference.

If she's unworthy of your reverence, then so am I.

We belong to each other and I am blessed more than I deserve in knowing she is mine.

No mortal man shall part us. And now...

-Oh... Over there.

-Right.

Gavin!

My boy...

Mother...

You mustn't cry.

I won't.

I was frightened at first,

but I'm not any more.

He wouldn't let anything happen to you.

Babbie?

Darling...

It's all because of me, Gavin.

Because of you,

life has a new meaning.

If God takes me now,

I shall have known love

and great happiness.

Yes.

It's the doctor. >

Let me past, please.

Everybody out. Clear the room.

Mrs Dishart, fetch me a bowl of very hot water.

-You better go too.

-Oh...

-You'll help me most by leaving the room.

Tell Jean to bring the hot water.

Darling, don't die!

Please, God...

He's so good.

He really deserves your help.

The people in Thrums need him.

And I need him too.

Oh, please, ma'am. Please try before it gets cold again.

I can't eat, dear.

Can't you?

Never mind.

I hear the doctor stirring.

I hope he has some good news for us this morning.

Well...?

You can go in now.

Just one of you.

-I'm so sorry.

-Sorry? It's not yet too late.

I forgive you everything. Come away. If only you had pity for yourself.

-I don't pity myself.

-Have you no pity for me then?

-I know you're unhappy now -

but it won't last. You don't love me. Not really.

There's nothing you cannot have for the asking. Is not that love?

No.

Goodbye, Barbara.

Goodbye, my lord.

Babbie, he's asking for you.

Oh, it's a weary...

Subtitles by BBC - 2000