Spring of 1988 Elizabeth's journal Spring has always been my favorite time of year. It brings the promise of happiness, new Hope, new life, new dreams, and nowhere is that promise more real then it is in Valley Spring on a beautiful spring morning.
Penny for your thoughts? Elizabeth said
I'll give them to you for free. Rip desperately needs a bath. (Laughing Elizabeth) I hope Abigail made scones this morning and you ... look absolutely beautiful. Jack said (as he rode the small rowboats onPond.)
You know it's usually not a good idea to make a woman blush well you're rowing. Elizabeth said
Why's that? Jack said
Because she might just kiss you and then you dip the oars. Elizabeth said
And then we'll be stuck in the middle of the pond all day. Jack said
Well, we wouldn't want that to happen, now would we? Elizabeth said
Maybe we would. Jack said
Then who would do your morning rounds? Elizabeth said
I'm sure Valley Spring couldn't get along without me for just a day. Jack said
I couldn't. Elizabeth said
Sure you could. Jack said
I'm serious, Jack. When you had pneumonia, and I thought I might lose you... Elizabeth said
You're never going to lose me, Elizabeth. Jack said
Well, it's easy to say that now... Elizabeth said
I knew it, even back then. Jack said
How? Elizabeth said
I don't know, just had a feeling that it wasn't my time yet... that there was more I was meant to do. Jack said
Meanwhile at the county house (Footsteps)
oh! there's the man of the hour. Rosemary said
The 7:00 AM hour? Lee said
The breakfast hour? Mm... honey-Bunny. Rosemary said
Do you have to call me that? Lee said
Don't change the subject. There is no better way to start the day than with a good breakfast and this morning it is eggs Benedict, Viana sausage and toast. Rosemary said
I think I'm gonna have to go with just the toast. Lee said
Lee county! That is the fourth time this week that you have skipped breakfast. Rosemary said
There's just so much happening at the Mill right now. Lee said
Well, you still have to eat. Rosemary said
I am toast. Lee said
That is not what I mean, and you know it. Rosemary said
I gotta go. But I promise to be home for dinner, okay? I love you Lee said (Door shut)
Meanwhile at the cafe
Here she comes, you must tell Mrs. Sartorial she can't raise chickens in town. I woke me up at 4 o'clock Florence said
Chickens can't tell time Florence. Abigail said
But Abigail you are the mayor and as the mayor. Florence said
I am not mayor in till 10 o'clock. Abigail said
My neighbors are burning grass today Wednesdays are in the day and I do my laundry how am I supposed to get my clothes clean? Molly said
My point exactly. What's the use of handing laws if we don't enforce them? Florence said
I'm not sure we have laws about chickens and laundry. Abigail said
Then maybe we should. Florence said
(Abigail goes in the kitchen)
Someone giving you trouble out there? Bill said
Every since I've become mayor. Abigail said
You need me to talk to them? Bill said
What I need is a break from petty complaints from people who have nothing better to do. Abigail said
You know there's a chance you may have to stay on as mayor. What then? Bill said
That sounds like you don't think Martin Gowen Will be cleared of the criminal charges. Abigail said
It's not a stretch. Bill
One day at a time, right? Abigail said
Abigail, there is someone out front who wants to see you. Clara said coming into the kitchen
I hope it's not about chickens. Abigail said
It's a man I have never seen before. Clara said
May I help you? Abigail said
Hello! I told the young lady I was looking for the mayor. Do you know where I could find him? Ryan said
You've found her. Abigail said
Her? You're the mayor? Ryan said
Last time I checked. Abigail said
A woman mayor. Now that's different. Ryan said
Well, we like to be different here. Abigail said
And I like your attitude. Ryan said
And you are? Abigail said
Ryan wainwright. With the North Pacific Railroad. I'm here to bring the future to valley spring . Ryan said
Meanwhile outside the jailhouse
You might want to polish those boots Bill said
Why's that jack said
I heard a rumor that superintendent Collins is coming to see you tomorrow bill said
Where'd you hear that? Jack said
My bunny is that Mountie headquarters. Bill said
Any idea what it's about? Jack said
Not a clue. But we both know Collins never stops by for a social visit. Bill said
Mm-hmm thanks, Bill. Jack said
At the mayor's office
Now, you already have a spur line that runs to the Sawmill and back, but the railroad wants to put the mainline right through valley spring , so yet it will run from north to south and connect yet west coast to east coast as well. Ryan said
The depot will be just outside of town. Henry Ayden said
How far outside? Abigail said
About a quarter-mile right here Henry Ayden said
The train'll stop one a day. That'll mean plenty of people spending plenty of their hard-earned money in your town. Ryan said
I'm sure everyone would love a little more business, but how we go about it is another matter. Abigail said
And that's why we wanted to talk to you first. Get your approval for the route. Ryan said
In my opinion, I think the town should hear all this directly from you. Abigail said
You just tell us when and where, and we'll be there. Ryan said
Meanwhile at the Ronald's farm
You look like you're working hard. Jack said down From Sargent
Ah, cows pushed a hole in the fence Lucky thing none of them got out. Andrew said
Let me give you a hard. Hey, laurel. How's school? Jack said
Good. See you later, dad. Laurel said
I am glad to see you and laurel doing so well. Jack said
Yeah. Hard to believe we've been here nearly two years. Andrew said
It must be time to renew the lease with the town. Jack said
I'm gonna talk to the mayor about it tomorrow. I couldn't imagine living anywhere else. Andrew said
Meanwhile school
all right, everyone. This is Cain ayden, His father works for the railroad company, and they just moved here. Can everyone say "hello, Cain." Elizabeth said
hello, Cain. Students said
You can take a seat right here, next to holly. Elizabeth said
Okay Cain said
Can't he sit over there? Holly said
He can sit next to me! Opal said
Well, thank you, opal, but I already assigned Cain a seat. Now with the railroad coming to town, there are going to be a lot of new students in our classroom. Elizabeth said
There are already a lot of new students. Robert said
Well, our friends from the settlement aren't new anymore, we're a family now. Elizabeth said
But we like sitting with our friends Anna said
You know what? It's time for a change. Anna... I want you to sit next to Maggie, and Robert, you may take a seat next to Timmy. Richard, next to Paul. Elizabeth said
Meanwhile at lee office Okay, so deposit that into the business account, sure were ready for payroll in two days Lee said
Yes, sir. Mr. County? McBride abbey said
Yeah? Lee said
If the railroad does come to town, do you think will get a contract? McBride abbey said
Well, We're are certainly gonna to try. Lee said (Door opens)
There you are! Oh you have company. Rosemary said
Uh, Rosemary, McBride Abbey. My new manager. Lee said
Mr. County talks about you all the time. McBride said
(Chuckles) That's my little honey-bunny. Rosemary said
Excuse me? McBride said
McBride. Bank. Lee said
Ahem. Yes, sir. McBride said
So, what is all this? Lee said
Fabric swatches for that old chair of yours. Rosemary said
Old? I just got it last spring. Lee said
Well it's drab beyond words. I was leaning towards this tone. I think it'll really brighten up the room. Rosemary said
It's pink. Lee said
It's fuchsia. Oh... you're a man. You don't know what you like. Rosemary said
Actually there is one thing that I really would look like. Lee said
(Gasps) new curtains! I couldn't agree with you more. Rosemary said
No. No. Not new curtains. When you were in my office maybe you shouldn't call and let me honey-bunny. Lee said
It's in term of endearment. Rosemary said
I-I know, but don't you think it's a little... silly? Lee said
Silly? Rosemary said
Yeah. Lee said
Oh. I see. I guess you per for me to call you Mr. County? Like your other employees? Rosemary said
I never said you were an employee. Lee said
Lee. Married couples have nicknames for each other. Rosemary said
(Mutters): not that they use in public. Lee said
What was that? Rosemary said
Nothing. No. Um... (inhales sharply) actually you want now I just thinking... maybe I need to come up with a nickname for you. Yeah. Something like, um... "squidget." Lee said
(Laughing) squidget? That's not even a word. Rosemary said
I know it's not it's a nickname. It's- - it's your new nickname. Lee said (Laughs Rosemary)
Lee, that is... Rosemary said
Silly? lee said
Sweet. I hand if that is what you want to call at me... I love it. Rosemary said
Hmm lee said
Meanwhile at the school yard
It's our turn out with a ball! Timmy said
No! It's our turn. Anna said
Timmy, Anna ... please share. Elizabeth said
Having a tough day? Jack said
(Sighs)I'm trying to get them to all play together, but the new kids stick with new kids, and the rest, they stick with the friends they already have. Elizabeth said
You know, when I was young, team sports was a great way for kids to make friends. Jack said
You think that could work here? Elizabeth said
Well, everyone likes winning, and you can't win unless you all work together. Jack said
All right! Then we'll do it. I'll set up a baseball game. Elizabeth said
Baseball! I love baseball. If you want, I can – – I can coach one of the teams. Jack said
And I'll coach the other team. Elizabeth said
You? Jack said
What? Elizabeth said
You're sure you want to coach? Jack said
Why shouldn't I coach? Elizabeth said
Well, I just ... I don't know if it's gonna be fair. Perhaps you should be... equipment manager instead. (Laughs) jack said
(Forced chuckle) jack... Being à coach is about being able to motivate a team– - Elizabeth said
Mm. Jack said
And getting them to realize their full potential. I am very good at that. Elizabeth said
It's also about scoring runs. Jack said
That's the easy part. Elizabeth said
(Laughing) whatever you say, coach. Jack said
So do we have a deal? Your team against my team? Elizabeth said
Deal. Jack said
Hmm. Elizabeth said
Meanwhile in town at the mayors office
Oh! Abigail! There you are! Rosemary said
Rosemary, I would love to chat, but I have a pile of work to do this morning. Abigail said
This won't take a moment of your ty. I know you are just as concerned about our little hamlet as I am, and there is some real trouble that we need to address right this very minute, if not sooner! Rosemary said
What kind of trouble? Abigail said
Dirt. Rosemary said
Dirt? Abigail said
It's everywhere. Rosemary said
Rosemary, this is a frontier town. Dirt is okay. Abigail said
That may be, but, when the wind blows from the East Sea, the whole Main Street gets covered in this thick cloud of grime. Rosemary said
That's sawdust, and it's coming from Lee's mill. Abigail said
Oh. Well... commerce has its price. Rosemary said
Mm. Abigail said
But... there is no excuse for the horses on Main Street. Rosemary said
What's wrong with the horse on Main Street? Abigail said
Well, they're not... (discreetly): ...housebroken! Rosemary said
Did you complain about these things to Martin Gowen? Abigail said
He wouldn't listen! But I knew you would understand. Rosemary said
Rosemary... if you want to volunteer to lead a citizens broom brigade, I would welcome the help. Abigail said
Ah! Pastor! Do you think you could help me organize a committee to clean up Main Street? Rosemary said
I didn't think it needed cleaning. Frank said
Well, you wouldn't, but trust me, it does. Rosemary said
I'll thank about it. But would you mind excusing us for a moment? I need to talk to Abigail about an urgent... spiritual matter. Frank said
Oh! Of course. We can talk about this later. Rosemary said
(Sighs) Oh... thank you. Abigail said (Both laughing)
Meanwhile in the school yard
Opal, you're on my team, and Robert, you're on Miss Thatcher's team. Jack said
But I want to be on Corey's team. Robert said
These are the teams, and we're not making any changes. Elizabeth said
(Kids, disappointed):oh... the kids said
You want to play, don't you? Elizabeth said
(All, excited) : yeah! All said
All right, then! We'll start practicing tomorrow first thing, after school. And I want to see real teamwork, okay? Elizabeth said
Real teamwork. See you later. Jack said
All right. (Chuckles)Cain? Didn't you hear? You're going to be on my team. Elizabeth said
I know. Cain said
Are you all right? Elizabeth said
Sure. Cain said
Don't you like baseball? Elizabeth said
It's my favorite game. Cain said
Then I don't think I understand. Aren't you excited about playing? Is it because you don't know the other kids? Elizabeth said
I can't play. Cain said
Why? Elizabeth
(he looks around that the other children and then pulls his pants up to show his brace on his knee) I hurt my knee. I can't run. Cain said
Well then we'll just have to find something else that we can all do together. Elizabeth said
But all the other kids really want to play and I don't want them to be mad at me. Cain said
Oh, no, I won't let that happen. Elizabeth said
It always happens. Please, miss thatcher. You can't stop the game not cause of me. Cain said
Later that afternoon on our ride in the hill country
So, if Cain can't play, we're just gonna have to find another way for him to be part of the game. Jack said
How? Elizabeth said
Well you said he likes baseball. Why not make him your assistant coach? Jack said
Can I do that? Elizabeth said
Why not? And I will make opal my assistant coach. Jack said
Oh! She'd love that. As long as brownie can help coach, too. Elizabeth said
And I've been thinking about where we can play. We'll clear the field next to Abigail's. Jack said
The field next to Abigail's? Elizabeth said
Yeah. Jack said
But will there be enough room for the gala posts? Elizabeth said
The goal posts? (Laughs) Okay you have me going in the air for a second. jack said
" always keep your opponent off-balance." I read that in The Art of War. Elizabeth said
Oh, so this is war? Jack said
Mm-hmm. Prepare for defeat. Elizabeth said
That night at the town meeting of the rail road
And of course we're looking forward to doing business with all the merchants in town. In fact I've already asked Mr. county to prepare a bid to supply us with railroad ties. Now I know I have given you all a lot to think about, so I will leave and let you discuss it. Thank you all for your time. Ryan said
(Applauding)
Thank you, gentlemen. I think we can all agree that it was a very thorough presentation. Is there anything else we need to talk about tonight? Yes faith? Abigail said
Mr. Wainwright didn't mention the Infirmary. With all the new railroad workers coming to town, I don't know if we'll be equipped to handle it. Faith said
I will discuss that with him tomorrow. Anyone else? Eduard? Abigail said
I worked up in San Francisco, a few years back. When the railroad came through, there wasn't a Saturday night that came and went without someone getting them black eye. Eduard said
I've already notified police headquarters about bringing on extra men, if we need them. Jack said
I think Jack and I can handle things for now. Bill said
Thank you, Eduard. It's nice to know we have so many concerned citizens. Abigail said
A little time later with Smalltalk
Cain didn't mention anything about a ball game. Henry said
Oh I told him I could pick something else, for the class to do, but he didn't want me too. Elizabeth said
Cain used to love baseball. He was good at it,to, but then a few months ago, he took a tumble off a horse and hurt his knee. Henry said
He showed me. Elizabeth said
Doctor say he's healing it doesn't even need the brace anymore. Henry said
Then why does he wear it? Elizabeth said
He's afraid to take it off. He thinks he'll hurt himself again (sighs) it's nice of you to ask, Miss thatcher, but I really don't think he can play. Henry said
Oh, no, he could be my assistant coach. He'll help the kids with batting, throwing, with strategy. Elizabeth said
I don't know about that. Henry said
Well can I at least ask him? Elizabeth said
Sure. But don't be disappointed if he turns you down. Henry said
You didn't find a job in there. Martin said
Well I just listened like anyone else. Abigail said
Trust me, Ryan wasn't playing to them. He won't want in the mayor to see just how Accommodating the railroad could be. He's good and that puts you in an enviable negotiating situation. Martin said
Thank you for the Advice, Martin. Abigail said
Good evening. Martin said
Good night. Abigail said
What did Gowen want? Bill said
Un, nothing. In fact he was being helpful. Abigail said
Is it true? Did you sell me out? Andrew said
Sell you out? Abigail said
A couple of railroad man showed up at my farm today. They said you're not gonna renew my lease, and laurel and I have to clear out to make way for the tracks. Andrew said
This is the first I've heard of it. Abigail said
Well they told me we gotta move to a parcel near Tucker's peak. They said they wouldn't charge us anything to live there, but I work too hard to just walk away from my farm. Andrew said
Your lease is with the town you're in and I will discuss the renewal. Abigail said
If it's all right with you, I'll ride out with Andrew, take a look at the land they're offering and you can figure out from there. Bill said
Thank you, bill. Abigail said
Andrew, don't worry. I won't let anyone take advantage of you. Abigail said
Meanwhile at County's home
Lee you're home. And you brought a guest. Rosemary said
McBride's not a guest, he's just uh, McBride Lee said
Even Mrs. county. McBride said
I know I said I'd be home for dinner right after the meeting, but McBride and I really need to get to work on that bid for the railroad. Lee said
Well, does it have to be tonight, honey-bunny? Can't it wait? Rosemary said
(Sighs) Mr. Wainwright needs those numbers as soon as possible... squidget. Lee said
All right. If you have to. Maybe I'll take that dessert next door. Elizabeth's making that dreadful shepherd's pie for jack again. Rosemary said
Have you been listening through the walls? Lee said
(Chuckles) I don't do that. Rosemary said
All right. Lee said
Have fun... with your papers. Rosemary
Next door
"The baseball player's pocket companion"? Jack said
Winners always do their homework. Elizabeth said (Knocking)
Look what I brought! Dessert! Rosemary said
Oh, Rosemary, that's very sweet, but I already made something. Elizabeth said
Oh cherry cobbler isn't dessert. It's cobbler. Chocolate cake is dessert. Rosemary said
How did you know I made cobbler? Elizabeth said
Oh, who knows? Lucky guess. Rosemary said
Have you been listening through the walls again? Elizabeth said
Why does everyone keep asking me that? I was just being neighborly Rosemary said
And we really appreciate it. Thanks for stopping by. Jack said
Aren't you going to ask me to stay? Rosemary said
(Inhales deeply) we wouldn't want to impose. Elizabeth said
Oh! It's no imposition at all! Though, if all you're going to talk about is "baseball this" And "baseball that" not that you were talking about baseball ... Rosemary said
Another lucky guess? Elizabeth said
ooh! I think I left something on the stove. Id better get back before I burn down the house. I Enjoy. Rosemary said (Door opens, shuts)
I think we are gonna have to whisper from now on. Jack said
Maybe we shouldn't talk at all. Elizabeth said (as he kisses her)
The next day
This land's full of rocks. Andrew said
You'd own the entire the parcel. Bill said
I'm a farmer, mr. Avenue, and the only thing a man can grow here is old. Andrew said
There's a cabin over there with a view. Bill said
Laurel loves where we live. She has memories there... of her mother. So do I. Andrew said
Sounds like you've made up your mind. Bill said
I don't want to move, not here, not anywhere. Andrew said
You heard the mayor. She'll speak to the railroad. Bill said
I'm not sure they're gonna listen to a woman. Andrew said
Well, they don't know this woman. Bill said
Meanwhile in town at the jail
I've never had cherry cobbler for breakfast before. Jack said
Well, I couldn't let it go to waste. Besides, they say it tastes better the day, anyway. Elizabeth said
Whoever "they" are, they're right. Jack said
(Elizabeth chuckling)
Superintendent Collins. (Shuts Door) wasn't expecting you until this afternoon. Jack said
Oh, I finished my business in Lost Hills early. It's good to see you again, miss Thatcher. San said
You too. I was just leaving. Elizabeth said
Well, actually, I think you should stay. Jack, I'm delighted to tell you that you will be presented with the commissioner's medal, for all the commendable work you've been doing. San said
Thank you, sir. Jack said
Jack, that's wonderful! Elizabeth said
The rescue work you did after the flood, bringing Justin garrison to justice, rounding up the Tolls Gang, that didn't go unnoticed. San said
Honestly, sir, I was just doing my job. Jack said
Oh, it's more than that. You show exemplary, leadership quality. That's not something you can learn, that's something you're born with. Sam said
Uh... I don't know what to say. Jack said
Well, you have a few days to figure it out. I'd like to present you with the medal this weekend. I've already spoken with Mayor Stanton about it. And of course, we'll expect you to say a few words. Sam said
Uh, well... I appreciate that, sir. You see, this weekend, we have a big baseball game coming up — — jack said
He'll be delighted to speak. Won't you, jack? Elizabeth said
Of course. Jack said
Latter that day at the schoolhouse
So... what do you think of the idea? Elizabeth said
(Sigh) I don't know. Cain said
You know, if you're my assistant coach, you'll make the team better. And to be honest, I could use all the help I can get. (Cain shock his head) You know, when I was your age, my sister and I took ballet lessons together. But one year, I got sick, and I couldn't dance, and it made me feel so sad that I had to watch her do what I couldn't. But then I realized, that even though I couldn't dance, I could still help her be a better ballerina, so I played piano for her every day while she rehearsed. And you know what happened? She became the best ballerina in the class. And it made feel so happy to know I'd helped her do that. Elizabeth said
I guess I could try being the assistant coach. Cain said
That's all I'm asking. Elizabeth said
Okay, laurel, ready? Jack said
Good try, Laurel! Opal said
You know what? You look like an outfielder. So why don't we spread out and catch some fliers? Jack said
Won't we need a jar? Ruby said
And stop! Elizabeth said
When do we get to practice baseball? Harper said
When we're done with our warm-ups. Now let's try some deep knee-beads. Elizabeth said
Miss thatcher? Cain said
Yes, cain. Elizabeth said
I think they've warmed up enough. I'll go get the bats. Cain said
All right. And stop. Good job, team. Now we're going to move on to... batting. Elizabeth said
Children! Who would like some lemonade? Do you want to grab a cup? Abigail said
Okay, team! While Corey warms up with Timmy, I'm gonna hit a ball and all you got to do is catch it. Ready? Oh, okay , that might have been a little bit of a tough one. Anna, can you throw it back to me? Jack said
Whoa... you have a great arm. Cain said
All I did was throw the ball. Anna said
You should be pitcher. You would strike everyone out. Cain said
You really think so? Anna said
I sure do. Cain said
Anna! Can I take to you a second? That was great. Come over here. Corey? Do you mind stepping out for just a moment? Thanks, buddy. Let's see what you can do. Pitch to Timmy. Timmy? You ready? How's your hand? Jack said
Jack? Can I talk to you for a minute? Abigail said
Of course! Keep going, Anna. What's up? Jack said
Well, I was just wondering why Corey is not pitching ? Abigail said
Oh... well, I just wanted to see what Anna could do. Jack said
But Corey's been working so hard. Doesn't he deserve to be pitcher? Abigail said
Abigail, Corey is so good, he is could play any position. Jack said
Corey where are you going? Cain said
Home. Corey said
Why? Cain said
I don't want to play if I can't be pitcher. Corey said
But you're the best player on the field. I would give anything to do what you can do. Cain said
If I'm the best, then why is Anna pitching? Corey said
Because she's good at throwing. You can catch flies, throw out runners, hit home runs... maybe you'll be the next Ty Cobb. Cain said
Ty Cobb's the best. Corey said
And he never pitched. Cain said
The night in the jailhouse
Burning the midnight oil? Rosemary said
Just doing some paperwork. Jack said
Jack... you are a terrible liar. I know you're working on that speech. Good news is... I'm here to help. (Thump Of book on the desk) Rosemary said
Oh, it's-it's nothing, it's just a few words. Jack said
I have won dozens of awards for my acting. Writing acceptance speeches is what I do. Rosemary said
I'm not sure this is the same thing. Jack said
Of course it is, silly. I brought these for inspiration. Hmm... now, let me see. Perhaps the bard... (gasps) ohh! "How far that little candle throws its beams... so shines a good deed in a naughty world." (Gasps indulgently) what do you think? Rosemary said
I'm not a candle. Jack said
It's a metaphor. Oh, fine. Let's look at another... Alexander the Great... (grandly) : "you and I, gentlemen, have shared the labor and shared the danger... the rewards are for us all." It's always good to thank the little people. Rosemary said
Rosemary, these words are nice, but they're not mine. Jack said
Constable? We need your help down at the saloon. Old man Murchadh's been cheating at poker again. John said
I'll be right there. I'll be back in a second. Jack said
Take your time. I have all night. Rosemary said
(He brush is his speech in the desk drawer as he Lock clicks)
(Rosemary use her hire pin to up click the desk drawer and giggles)
(Rip grumbled for in front of the fireplace)
You didn't see a thing. Rosemary said
Meanwhile at the cafe (Footsteps)
Sorry to interrupt you, Elizabeth, but I'm about to close up. Bill said
I'm so sorry. I must've lost track of time. Elizabeth said
Must be a good book. Bill said
If you like reading about knuckleballs, two-baggers, and... daisy-cutters? Whatever that means. Elizabeth said
Well, that's a hard-hit ground ball, fast enough to cut the petals off a daisy. Bill said
You know a lot about baseball. Could you please give me some pointers? Elizabeth said
Uh, sorry, I can't, uh... I have to be impartial. Bill said
Why? Elizabeth said
Jack asked me to be the umpire. Bill said
You're the umpire? Elizabeth said
Is there a problem? Bill said p
Not with you, but jack and I are gonna have to have a little talk. Elizabeth said
The next afternoon in the school yard
Jack? Did you ask bill avenue to be the umpire? Elizabeth said
Yeah, yeah, we were talking about the game last night, thought it'd be a good idea. Jack said
But we were supposed to agree on an umpire. Elizabeth said
Right. Uh, so, who'd you want to pick? Jack said
Bill. But that's not the point! Elizabeth said
Then what is the point? Jack said
Well, now you have a psychological advantage. Elizabeth said
You're taking this way too seriously. Jack said
Baseball is nuanced and complex. It is! Elizabeth said
Miss thatcher dasher stole the baseball! Now it's covered with doggie drool. Emily said
Oh... Elizabeth said
Now that is nuanced and complex. Jack said
Do you have any idea how infuriating you can be? Elizabeth said
All's fair in love and war. Jack said
So which is this? Elizabeth said
A little of both. Jack said
Dasher! You drop that ball! Elizabeth said
(Ball hits mitt)
Wanna see a special pitch? Cain said
But you're not on my team. Anna said
I think it's okay. Miss Thatcher said we're supposed to be... one big family. Cain said
Okay. Anna said
It's called a slow-ball. It's great for a strikeout pitch. You wind up like this. Cain said
What's wrong with your leg? Anna said
Nothing. Cain said
Is that why you don't play? Anna Said
Cain? Are you all right? Elizabeth said
I'm fine. Cain said
Where are you going? Cain? Cain, please stop. Oh, sweetheart, I am so sorry. Elizabeth said
Now all the other kids are gonna think there's something wrong with me. They always do. Cain said
Oh, not here. they're just worried about you. Elizabeth said
No. Everywhere we move, the kids at school make fun of me. Cain said
Well, they were wrong. You were in an accident. But the doctor say your knee's going to get better. Elizabeth said
No, it wasn't. Cain said
(Sighs) you just need to give it time. Elizabeth said
I'll never be any good again. Cain said
Cain...you are good. I've seen the difference you've made in Anna, in Corey. It doesn't matter that you can't run as fast as you used to. You have a special gift. You get people to believe in themselves. Now all you have to do is start to believe in yourself again, too. (Chuckles) All right. Elizabeth said
Meanwhile in the saloon
Did you look at the land before we offered it to mr. Ronald? Ryan said
No, sir. I took it off the map. It's more than ten acres. Oliver tree said
Have the surveyors pick out a parcel that we can be proud to offer. Ryan said
Yes, sir. Ahem. Oliver tree said
My apologies to you both. Oliver means well, but he takes shortcuts. We'll make things right for mr. Ryan said
I appreciate that, mr. Wainwright. You know where to find me. Thank you, gentlemen. Abigail said
Mr. Avenue ? A moment of your time? Ryan said
Something on your mind? Bill said
As a matter of fact, there is, yes. I've been asking around about you. You have quite the resume. Former Mountie, gun for hire, private investigator. Ryan said
What can I say? I can't keep a job. Bill said
I doubt that. The truth is, I'm impressed, and I don't impress easy. Would you to consider taking on the railroad as one of your clients? Ryan said
Doing what, exactly? Bill said
Heading up security. Making sure everything runs as it's supposed to. It's not an easy job, so, of course, your fee would reflect that. Ryan said
Let me think about it. Bill said
Sometimes later at the cafe
Mm! That might be the best spaghetti I've ever had. Abigail said
You really liked it? Corey said
I really did. Abigail said
Well, it's about time you had a home-cooked meal you didn't have to cook yourself. Frank said
Can I go outside and play kickball with Timmy and Harper? Corey said
Kickball? What about baseball? Abigail said
I'll play baseball tomorrow. Corey said
But tomorrow is the big game. Don't you want to practice your pitching? Abigail said
Anna's pitching. Corey said
Maybe if you work on your release a little ... go ahead. Have fun. Abigail said
Bye! Corey said
Bye! Frank said
I think jack is making a mistake. Corey should be pitching. Abigail said
Aren't you forgetting it doesn't matter if you win or lose, it's how you play the game? Frank said
So it doesn't matter if you lose in darts? Abigail said
Does it matter if you lose? Frank said
I don't lose in darts. Abigail said
Now that I believe. Frank said (Both chuckling)
Meanwhile at the jailhouse (Door opens)
I have a surprise for you. Rosemary said
Good surprise or bad surprise? Jack said
I rewrote your speech. Rosemary said
(Opens And closes desk drawer)
How did you– - jack said
Oh, it's not important how. It's just important that I made it better. Rosemary said
Well, I wasn't finished with it. Jack said
Well, I should hope not. All you did was go on and on about how undeserving you are, how honored are, blah-blah-blah. I nearly dozed off! Rosemary said
Wasn't that bad. Jack said
Read what I wrote. Rosemary said
This is longer than socrates's apology. Jack said
But much more pizzazz. Rosemary said
Okay. (Laughs) I'll take a look. Jack said
Right now. Rosemary said
The next morning
(Jack) : okay! This is gonna be a big day. Are we all focused? Jack said
Yeah. Kids said
We ready? Ready for a big game? Jack said
Yeah. Kids said
Okay, good. Jack said
Let's play ball. Bill said
(Crown Cheering And applauses)
Batter up! Strike one! Bill said
Ooh! Close! Elizabeth said
Yeah, Anna! Well done, well done! great work! Jack said
Okay! Robert! Elizabeth said
Safe! Bill said
Okay, you guys having fun? Jack said
Yeah! Kids said
Take the field! Jack said
(Bat cracks)
Yes! Frank said
Oh, Corey! Well done! Jack said
Nice catch! Bill said
(Crown All applauding)
You're out! Bill said
Oh! Is that legal? Abigail said
It's the "hidden ball" trick. Frank said
Batter up! Bill said
(Crack) Corey! Go! Jack said
Go Corey! Go, Corey! Abigail said
Slide in there, slide in there! Jack said
Yer outta there! Bill said
Out? Jack said
He's out! Bill said
That's it! You heard him! He's out! Elizabeth said
No, he was safe by a mile! Jack said
That's not right ! Abigail said
Abigail, it's okay. Frank said
It is certainly not okay! Abigail said
Look everyone has their opinions but, on game day, mine's the one that counts. Bill said
Thank you, bill. Elizabeth said
You're making a big mistake. Jack said
The call's been made! Bill said
The wrong call! Abigail said
Thank you very much! Jack said
Miss Abigail, I don't know if I was safe or out. Corey said
You were, safe Corey jack said
No, he wasn't. Elizabeth said
You were safe! Abigail said
He was safe by a mile, Bill. Jack said
(Adults arguing)
(Whistles loudly)
Everybody, off the field, before I eject you! Now! Next batter! Bill said
She has a pretty bad sprain. Faith said
I don't think I can lift the bat. Emily said
Oh. Um... can we substitute a player? Elizabeth said
Uh, miss thatcher? Cain said
Yes, Cain? Elizabeth said
I think I can bat. Cain said
Are you sure? Elizabeth said
I'm sure. Cain said
(Crowd applauding)
Don't take it easy on me. Cain said
Don't worry I won't. Anna said
Strike one! Bill said
It's all right. Frank said
It's okay, Cain, you got this Abigail said
Keep your eye on the ball. Frank said
You can do it, Cain! Elizabeth said
Strike two! Bill said
(Crack)(loud cheering)
That's my boy. Henry said
It's getting late! I'm calling this game a tie. Any objections? Bill said
Not from me jack said
Or me Elizabeth said
Tie game! Bill said
Oh, Lee. I'm so glad you were able to take some time off. Rosemary said
I'm so glad you called me "lee." Lee said
I'd say anything to get you to stop calling me "squidget." Rosemary said
(Laughs) so we're in agreement, then? No nicknames? Lee said
Oh, the only reason I call you honey-bunny is because that's my special name for you. It's only for you. Rosemary said
Like when I call you "sweetheart." Lee said
Exactly! That's what you used to call me. You know, before that "other" name. Rosemary said
(Chuckling) Well, why don't we make it easier on each other and just be sweethearts? Lee said
I love that idea. Rosemary said
Not as much as I love you lee said
(Abigail sighs heavily) I owe you an apology. Abigail said
Abigail, us umpire don't take things personally. Bill said
I'm not apologizing to the umpire, I'm apologizing to bill avenue. Abigail said
I guess I got carried away with wanting Corey's team to win. Abigail said
Well, maybe a little. Bill said (Laughing Abigail)
That's okay. It's good to have some fire in your belly. Makes you a good mom. And a good Mayor. Bill said
Thank you. Abigail said
Meanwhile some where else
Afternoon. Martin said
Can I help you? Ryan said
Martin Gowen. Said
Well, it's nice to meet you mr. Gowen. What can I do for you? Ryan said
It's not so much what you can do for me, it's what I can do for you. See, I'm the man Who can make sure that your expansion into Valley Springgoes exactly how you planned. Martin said
Meanwhile on the pond
Despite a few hits and misses, we had a good time, don't you think? Elizabeth said
A tie game that will go down in Valley Springhistory. Jack said
Exactly! And all the kids were winners because they all made new friends. Elizabeth said
That's why you're a great teacher, Elizabeth. Jack said
And your a great coach. Elizabeth said
But not a great speech writing. Jack said
Jack... it's easy, if you just listen to your heart. Elizabeth said
My heart doesn't know how to write a speech. Jack said
Then just let it speak to me. Elizabeth said
The evening
So, in conclusion, I'm receiving this award for doing my job... (chuckles) for being brave But there are people here today who are a lot braver than I am, and they don't get medals for it. So I accepted this award on behalf of all the heroes here today, and I think god that I have been given the privilege to serve our community and our country. You know... wearing this uniform, it isn't just an honor... this is my life ... my calling. It's my destiny. Jack said
Congratulations. Sam said
Thank you jack said
(Applause rises)
