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)