"Days of Christmas Past: 1968"
Head Writer: William J.
Bell


Episode # 780: Prelude to Christmas: Susan Seaforth's Debut as Julie
Airdate: Wednesday, December 11, 1968



 
Macdonald Carey...Frances Reid...Denise Alexander...Edward Mallory...Joyce Easton...Mike Farrell...Susan Seaforth
Tom Horton.....Alice Horton.....Susan Hunter.....Bill Horton.....Janet Banning.....Scott Banning.....Julie Olson



PROLOGUE
FADE IN: EXT. HORTON FRONT STEPS & PORCH (SAME NIGHT AS PRECEDING SCRIPT. SOUND EFFECT: WIND. OPEN ON TOM, WALKING UP THE FRONT STEPS OF THE HORTON HOME, HAVING JUST RETURNED FROM HIS HOUSE CALL AND VISIT TO LAURA AND MICKEY. HE IS CARRYING HIS BLACK BAG. IT IS A COLD WINTER'S EVENING. AS TOM GETS TO THE FRONT PORCH, HE STOPS, STANDS AT THE RAILING, LOOKS OUT TOWARD THE FRONT LAWN RATHER THOUGHTFULLY, AND WE HEAR HIS TRAIN OF THOUGHT. RUN PRE-RECORDED AUDIO TAPE)
TOM VOICEOVER: So Bill finally decided to ask Susan to marry him...I wonder why? I don't think he really loves the girl...Perhaps love can come later in a marriage...The important thing is the peace of mind this has given Laura...I won't tell Alice the news, I'll let Bill and Susan do that**, when they make the announcement to the whole family...
[**JASON47 NOTE: An ironic line begins this script, with Tom mentioning "Bill and Susan getting married." Bill and Susan Hayes would marry in 1974.]
(WITH THAT DECISION OUT OF THE WAY, TOM STARTS FOR THE FRONT DOOR, TAKES OUT KEY, SOUND EFFECT: KEY IN DOOR, OPENS DOOR, GOES INSIDE. HE SEES ALICE ON THE LIVING ROOM PHONE, ON A ONE-WAY CALL)
ALICE (nodding to Tom): Hello, dear. I'm on the phone with Laura.
(ALICE GOES BACK TO HER PHONE CALL AS TOM HANGS UP HIS COAT IN THE HALLWAY)
ALICE: No, that's all right. Tom just came home...Oh, is that so? If I'd known, I would have gone with him...I'm so glad you're happy with the apartment. I enjoyed doing it...All right, dear, I'll talk to you tomorrow.
(ALICE HANGS UP THE PHONE, TURNS TO JOIN TOM AS HE ENTERS THE ROOM. THEY EMBRACE LIGHTLY, AND ALICE SMILES AT HIM)
TOM: I'm glad you waited up for me.
ALICE: So am I.
TOM: I dropped by Mickey and Laura's on my way home.
ALICE: I know, Laura just told me.
(ALICE'S SMILE TAKES ANY EDGE OFF HER WORDS)
ALICE: If I'd known you were going to stop there after the house call, I would have gone with you.
TOM: It was a spur of the moment thing. I was in the neighborhood.
ALICE: All right, you're forgiven. This time! But if you drop in on them without me after they bring our grandson home...
TOM (topping warmly): I wouldn't dare!
ALICE (laughs): Oh, Laura was so pleased with the way the apartment looked. She called to thank me.
TOM: She was very grateful.
ALICE: She sounded wonderful on the phone, Tom. More relaxed. More herself than she has been in a long time.
TOM (shaded): Yes, there should be only peace, and happiness, ahead for Laura now.
ALICE: Peace and happiness.
(ALICE TURNS BACK TO THE DESK, WHERE SHE HAS BEEN ADDRESSING CHRISTMAS CARDS)
ALICE: Those words make me think of Christmas.
TOM: I see you've been addressing Christmas cards.
(TOM GLANCES AT ONE FINISHED STACK)
TOM: Why don't you use those return address labels to save time?
ALICE: Oh, I don't know. I guess I'm old-fashioned. I like to do all the addressing by hand. I suppose it's the one time during the year for thinking of old friends, dropping them a note.
(TOM PUTS AN ARM AROUND HER, WITH GREAT AFFECTION)
TOM: You enjoy that, don't you? Keeping in touch.
ALICE: Especially this year, Tom. So much has happened. We have Tommy back with us...a new grandson...
TOM: Yes, we'll have so many of the children here with us.
ALICE: Which reminds me. Bill's back from New York. He got in early this evening and called from the hospital to say hello.
TOM: Oh, did he?
ALICE: I asked him to stop by, but he said he was going over to Susan's for dinner. They seem to be getting quite serious, don't they?
TOM: Yes, they seem to be.
(SOUND EFFECT: A PHONE RINGING INTERRUPTS THE CONVERSATION. TOM PICKS IT UP FOR A ONE-WAY CALL)
TOM: Hello?...Yes, operator, this is Dr. Horton...Long distance?...
(TOM GETS A VERY GUARDED REACTION OF HAPPINESS)
TOM: Yes, put her on...It's Julie, calling from San Francisco.
(TAKE ALICE'S VERY HAPPY REACTION, HOLD A BEAT. MUSIC: UP TO FINISH AND OUT. FADE TO: BLACK. MUSIC: THEME. UP ON: HOUR GLASS & MATTE CARD. FADE TO BLACK. UP ON: COMMERCIAL POSITION # 1)

ACT ONE
FADE IN: INT. HORTON LIVING ROOM (TAKE IT UP IMMEDIATELY. A TWO-WAY PHONE CALL BETWEEN TOM AND JULIE. PERHAPS SPLIT SCREEN, TO ADD INTEREST. IN ANY EVENT, JULIE CAN BE IN A LIMBO SET, CALLING PROBABLY FROM HER ROOMING HOUSE. BY THE TELEPHONE ARE THREE OR FOUR LETTERS FROM TOM.)
TOM: Julie, how are you?
JULIE: I'm fine, thanks.
TOM: Your grandmother's been a little worried. We tried to call you once but there was no answer.
JULIE (subdued, yet warm): I know. I've been away. I didn't give up muy place, but I've been gone for about six weeks.
TOM (his face reflecting his concern): Where did you go?
JULIE: Oh, no place special. I felt restless, so I went up north, along the coast. I needed to get away.
TOM: Well, it's good to hear your voice, know you're all right.
JULIE: I found several letters from you...I was so sorry to hear about Laura and the baby, but then your last letter said they were both all right.
TOM: Yes, we've been very lucky. Laura came home from the hospital today, and they'll be able to bring the baby home very soon.**
[**NOTE: The baby spoken about is Michael Horton, who was born on the 9/27/68 episode. He was most recently played by Roark Critchlow in 1999.]
(DURING THE ABOVE, TAKE REACTION SHOTS OF ALICE, WHO IS LISTENING INTENTLY, A HAPPY LOOK ON HER FACE. TOM REACTS, READY TO TURN THE PHONE CALL OVER TO ALICE, SINCE THERE IS NONE OF THE OLD EASE AND WARMTH BETWEEN HIM AND JULIE)
JULIE: I'm so glad...Give them my love, will you?
TOM: I'll do that. And I'd better turn you over to your grandmother before we let the time get away from us. Nice hearing from you, Julie...and take care of yourself.
JULIE: Thanks, grandfather.
(TOM HANDS THE PHONE TO ALICE. THE WARMTH BETWEEN THE TWO WOMEN WILL BE QUITE A CONTRAST TO THE CONVERSATION BETWEEN JULIE AND TOM. BECAUSE NO MATTER WHAT HAS HAPPENED IN THE PAST, THIS IS ALICE'S GRANDDAUGHTER, A CHILD WHO SPENT CONSIDERABLE TIME GROWING UP IN THIS HOUSE)
ALICE: Julie, darling?
JULIE: Grandma, how are you?
ALICE: Fine, dear. How are you?
JULIE (shaded): All right, I guess...I've missed you so much...
(TAKE ALICE'S REACTION)
ALICE: We've missed you too, dear.
(ALICE SHOOTS A LOOK AT TOM. TAKE HIS GUARDED REACTION)
JULIE: You sound so...far away.
ALICE: So do you. Much too far away.
JULIE: I've been thinking about you and grandfather all day, so I thought I'd call.
ALICE: We're so glad you did...Julie...Are you all right, dear?
JULIE: Of course, I'm fine.
ALICE: You don't sound fine.
JULIE: Well, I suppose I'm a little lonely.
ALICE: You know, I was sitting here tonight, making out Christmas cards, and I came to your name on the list, and I thought to myself, wouldn't it be wonderful if she could be with us for the holidays.
(ALICE STOPS, REACTING TO TOM'S CONCERN. THIS IS WHAT JULIE HAS REALLY WANTED TO HEAR)
JULIE: I didn't think grandfather ever want me to come back to Salem.
ALICE (already trapped, felling a sudden warmth toward Julie's plight): He wants you to happy, Julie. We both do. And I see no reason why you can't be with the family for the holidays.
(JULIE IS WARMING TO THE IDEA)
JULIE: It sounds wonderful!...There really isn't anything to keep me here.
ALICE: How soon can you come?
JULIE: Maybe in a week or so. I'll let you know as soon as my plans are definite.
ALICE: All right, darling.
JULIE: I love you, grandma. Very much.
ALICE: I love you too, dear...I'm so glad you called.
JULIE: So am I...Say goodbye to grandfather for me.
ALICE: I will...Goodbye, dear.
(ALICE HANGS UP THE PHONE SLOWLY, TURNS TO FACE TOM, WHOSE FACE REFLECTS GENUINE CONCERN ABOUT ALL THIS)
ALICE: Tom, please...Don't be angry with me.
TOM: How could I be angry with you, ever?
ALICE: She sounded so lost and alone.
TOM (gently): I know, Alice...I love her, too. It isn't that I don't want her home with us for Christmas...But I can't help wondering if it's wise having Julie come back to the place where she put her baby out for adoption a year ago.
DISSOLVE TO: INT. BANNING LIVING ROOM (JANET, SITTING ON THE SOFA, DEEPLY THOUGHTFUL. ESTABLISH, THEN BRING SCOTT OUT FROM THE NURSERY, A WARM SMILE ON HIS FACE)
SCOTT: The baby's sound asleep. He didn't even turn over when I put another blanket around him.
(THERE IS A LONG PAUSE, AND SCOTT STUDIES JANET FOR A MOMENT. HE GOES OVER TO KISS THE TOP OF HER HEAD)
SCOTT: You're awfully quiet tonight, Mrs. Banning.
JANET: I was thinking about Christmas coming, what a wonderful time of year for the children. And for some reason, I found myself thinking about Julie Olson. And wondering what it must be like a year later, after giving up a baby. I wonder what she must be thinking now.
(TAKE SCOTT'S REACTION AND MUSIC: UP TO FINISH AND OUT. FADE TO BLACK. UP ON: COMMERCIAL POSITION # 2)

ACT TWO
FADE IN: INT. BANNING APARTMENT (TAKE IT UP IMMEDIATELY. SCOTT IS LOOKING AT HIS WIFE WITH A CERTAIN AMOUNT OF SURPRISE)
SCOTT: Why would you be thinking of Julie Olson?
JANET: I find myself thinking of her a lot. After all, we know so little about Brad's real mother. And nothing at all about his father.
SCOTT: It's strange, but I've almost forgotten about Julie Olson. In my mind, you are Brad's mother. His real mother.
JANET: Oh darling, of course I am. And you're his father.
SCOTT: Then why think about Julie Olson?
JANET: I suppose, in a way, I wonder what kind of a woman could ever give up a baby. There must have been so much heartbreak and tragedy in her life, to force her to make such a decision.
SCOTT: If there hadn't been heartbreak, and tragedy, we never would have had an opportunity to adopt Brad.
JANET: Yes, I know. The idea of having to lose a baby. Give it up...It must be very difficult.
(OF COURSE, SHE IS SPEAKING NOW OF WHAT SHE FACES: GIVING UP HER BABY AND HER LIFE. SCOTT LOOKS AT HER SEARCHINGLY)
SCOTT: You forget, Mrs. Banning, that we love each other. Any child we might have been able to have together, well, no one in the world could have taken him away from us...It was difficult for Julie Olson. She didn't have a husband to help her raise her baby.
JANET: It wouldn't be easy, trying to raise a child, with only one parent. It wouldn't be easy at all.
(CAMERA HAS MOVED IN CLOSE TO TAKE THE DIMENSION OF JANET'S FEELINGS AND THOUGHTS. SHE IS THINKING ABOUT SCOTT, HOW HE WILL HAVE TO CARRY ON ALONE. TAKE SCOTT'S REACTION, THEN HIS OBVIOUS EFFORT TO LIGHTEN JANET'S MOOD)
SCOTT: Hey, not so serious! Christmas is coming, and we have to decide what to give Brad.
JANET (a half smile): You mean, decide what not to give him.
SCOTT: You think I'll spoil him?
JANET: Of course, why not?
SCOTT: Would he like an electric train, do you think?
JANET: No, but you would!
SCOTT: I'm going to buy him everything I ever wanted and didn't get when I was a kid.
JANET: Whose Christmas is this...yours or the baby's?
SCOTT: Ours. Yours and mine...If Brad's a good boy, I might let him touch the electric train!
JANET: Oh, Scott!
(SCOTT KISSES HER VERY GENTLY, PAUSE AS HE LOOKS AT HER)
SCOTT: Still thinking about Julie Olson?
JANET: I was thinking just then about Susan...and the future. Her future.
SCOTT: Marriage to Bill Horton, I imagine.
JANET: He's a very lucky man. I wonder if he knows that?
SCOTT (smiling): I'm sure he does. In fact, from what Susan told us earlier, he's probably proposing to her right now.
DISSOLVE TO: INT. SUSAN'S APARTMENT (A CONTINUATION OF PREVIOUS EPISODE WITH SUSAN AND BILL. SUSAN IS LOOKING AT BILL, HER FACE SOLEMN AND HER EMOTIONS UNDER CONTROL. HOLD A BEAT, THEN CAMERA PULLS BACK TO INCLUDE BILL, WHO IS FEELING THE STRAIN OF HAVING TO RECOUNT THIS STORY)
BILL: Don't look at me that way, Susan.
SUSAN: What way?
BILL: I don't know exactly. Except that you seem to be a million miles away.
SUSAN: I'm listening Bill. For the rest of the story. You said that was only the beginning, the night you had too much to drink and went to Laura's room at the hospital.
BILL (turning away from her): You aren't making it any easier, Susie.
SUSAN: I love you, Bill...Nothing you tell me can change that.
BILL: I'm counting on that...I want to bring out marriage all the honesty I can. You deserve that much.
SUSAN (her voice low, controlled): Go on with the rest of the story, Bill.
BILL: It isn't very pretty.
SUSAN (very low): Life has a way of not being very pretty. Sometimes...
(HOLD ON SUSAN A BEAT, THEN MUSIC: UP TO FINISH AND OUT. FADE TO: BLACK. UP ON: COMMERCIAL POSITION # 3. MUSIC: THEME. UP ON: HOUR GLASS/MATTE CARD. UP ON: COMMERCIAL POSITION # 4)

ACT THREE
FADE IN: INT. SUSAN'S APARTMENT (TAKE IT UP IMMEDIATELY. BILL IS TRYING TO GO ON WITH THE STORY)
BILL: Well, anyway, I never took another drink after that night...It wasn't easy, facing Laura the next morning. She told me to get out of her life and stay out...I swore I would do that, that I would never hurt her again, in any way...And I did stay out of her life...But neither one of us realized just how much I had hurt her that night.
SUSAN: What can I say to you, Bill? Something like this happening to Laura...
BILL: Susie, I didn't know what I was doing. I was drunk.
SUSAN: She never told Mickey?
BILL: How could she? He would have wanted to kill me...And I wouldn't have blamed him.
SUSAN: Laura was right. Let's put the past behind us. Don't let it in any way jeopardize what we want to build together...
BILL: I want to do that, Susie. If only Laura and I were involved, there would be no reason to have told you what happened.
SUSAN: I don't understand.
BILL: After that night, I searched the fiber of my being to figure out what kind of man I was. It changed my whole life, that night. I decided not to let one mistake wipe out everything else of value...I kept my distance from Laura. And I built a new relationship with my brother.
SUSAN: Yes, I remember, how happy everyone was, when you and Mickey got back together again.
BILL: I was trying to forget what happened, and I had started to forget. Until last July...Do you remember, I wasn't feeling well, I had a bit of abdominal discomfort.
SUSAN: Yes, I gave you soup several times because you couldn't keep anything else down.
BILL; Well, I finally stopped being bull-headed and decided to see a doctor.
SUSAN: Yes, I remember...
BILL: Dad was out of town, so I went to Dr. Lincoln for a checkup...It's, it's almost incredible the way things happen, Susie. Maybe the word is "destiny."
SUSAN: I don't know what you mean.
BILL: I went to Dad's office to get my medical file to give to Dr. Lincoln, and I got into a conversation with Miss Perkins, who gave me the folder...Well, I went back to my quarters, waiting to see Dr. Lincoln, and I started to read through the history. I don't know why I did it, just browsing I guess. Anyway, I suddenly realized it wasn't my file at all. It was a case history on my brother, Mickey.
SUSAN: Bill, why are you telling me all this? None of it makes much sense!
BILL: It will in a moment. I tried to phone Miss Perkins, to tell her about the mistake, but her line was busy. By the time I tried again, she'd gone out to lunch. I was closing the folder, when a notation on the last page caught my eye...I...I was stunned by what I read.
SUSAN: What do you mean?
(BILL DOESN'T ANSWER HER DIRECTLY)
BILL: I found out later about a test Mickey had taken...Why he did it, I don't know...The point is, he did have the test done, by my father. Mickey had been reading one of Laura's medical journals, an article on mumps in the adult male. That sometimes it can leave a man...sterile. So Mickey, who remembered he'd had mumps in law school, went to Dad and had a test taken. He and Laura had been married only a few months, and both of them were anxious to have children right away.
SUSAN: What was the notation on Mickey's medical history?
BILL: I'll never forget the words: "Sterility test proves the patient to be unequivocally infertile..."
(SUSAN UNDERSTANDS THE MEANING OF THESE WORDS, BUT FOR A BRIEF MOMENT, DOESN'T RELATE IT TO THE POINT BILL IS TRYING TO MAKE ABOUT THE BABY)
SUSAN: Bill, that can't be. I mean, that can't be true...Laura and Mickey have a baby....
(TAKE BILL'S LONG, PENETRATING LOOK)
BILL: There is no question about the test being right, Susan.
(TAKE TIME HERE FOR SUSAN'S REACTION. KEEP HER INTENSE, HER VOICE VERY LOW. WHEN SHE SPEAKS, HER VOICE IS SHAKEN)
SUSAN: Bill, what are you saying? If this isn't Mickey's baby...
(BILL IS GRIM, INSISTING ON THE COMPLETE TRUTH)
BILL: It isn't Mickey's baby. It can't be...The baby is mine...
(TAKE REACTIONS OF THIS BOMBSHELL, AND... MUSIC: UP TO FINISH AND OUT. FADE TO: BLACK. UP ON: COMMERCIAL POSITION # 5)

ACT FOUR
FADE IN: INT. SUSAN'S APARTMENT (TAKE IT UP IMMEDIATELY. SUSAN TURNS AWAY FROM BILL, TOTALLY SHAKEN TO THE VERY FOUNDATIONS OF HER BEING)
BILL: Susan, don't turn away from me. Please...
(TAKE HER FACE IN CLOSE, AS SHE TRIES TO SAY SOMETHING, REASSURE HIM IN SOME WAY)
SUSAN: Oh, Bill...
(HE CROSSES TO HER, DOESN'T TOUCH HER)
BILL: Susan...Please understand...why I had to tell you...
(TAKE TIME HERE. BECAUSE THIS WILL BE VERY IMPORTANT LATER ON IN THIS STORY. IT IS A LONG MOMENT BEFORE SUSAN SPEAKS)
SUSAN: Why did you have to tell me?
BILL: I wanted everything to be honest and above-board between us.
SUSAN: Is that why you told me?
BILL: What other reason is there?
SUSAN: I'm asking you, Bill.
BILL: No other reason, except that I couldn't live with this, I couldn't marry you, until you knew everything.
(SUSAN MOVES AWAY FROM BILL, TRYING TO DIGEST EVERYTHING HE HAS TOLD HER. SHE IS CONFUSED, TORN APART BY CONFLICTING EMOTIONS)
SUSAN: Does...Mickey know....How could he know...
BILL: Dad never told him the results of the sterility test. Because Laura told both Dad and Mickey what seemed to be wonderful news. That she was pregnant.
SUSAN: So Mickey believes this is his child?
BILL: He believes it is his son.
SUSAN: And your father?
BILL: He knows the whole story. Because Laura had to tell him. But they don't know I know the results of Mickey's sterility test. I put the folder back in Dad's file without anyone knowing I received it by mistake.
SUSAN: You've been living with this, all these months, both you and Laura...
BILL: I can't tell you how much better I feel, now that you know everything...It won't make any difference, will it, Susan?...As far as out marriage is concerned?
(SUSAN TURNS AWAY, HER GLANCE COMING TO REST UPON THE UNOPENED WINE BOTTLE, THE CELEBRATION GIFT FROM SCOTT AND JANET. SHE PICKS IT UP, STARING PAST IT, HER MIND IN A CONFUSING WHIRL. HER WORDS HAVE LITTLE MEANING. SHE IS IN A STATE OF SHOCK)
SUSAN: So, that's why you stopped drinking.
(SUSAN LOOKS AT THE BOTTLE)
SUSAN: Janet bought me this wine so we could make a toast to our happiness, our future.
(TAKE BILL'S REACTION, HIS CONCERN. HE CROSSES TO SUSAN, TAKES THE BOTTLE FROM HER. HIS VOICE IS LOW, VERY SOLEMN)
BILL: Susan, please...I had to tell you...I'd give anything to put back that special look on your face, the smile you gave me tonight when I asked you to be my wife...Let's open the wine, and make a toast, to us. Our happiness. Our future. Together.
SUSAN: No, don't open the bottle. Not yet.
(SUSAN SMILES SADLY)
SUSAN: Good wine keeps, Bill. It even improves with age...Let's wait to open the wine.
(SHE TURNS AWAY AGAIN. TAKE BILL'S REACTION. SOMEHOW, HE REALIZES HE MAY BE LOSING SUSAN, AND HE IS CONCERNED)
BILL: Susan, I asked you to marry me. And you said yes...Then I told you a story I had to tell you. Is your answer still yes?
(A LONG BEAT HERE, AS SUSAN TURNS TO BILL, HER LOVE FOR HIM DEEP, HER CONCERN ABOUT HIS FEELINGS FOR HER BEGINNING TO SURFACE)
SUSAN: I need time, Bill.
BILL: You keep moving away from me. Do I disgust you so much?
SUSAN (deeply moved): Oh, Bill...You keep forgetting...that I love you.
BILL: I'm asking you to marry me, Susan. I'm waiting for your answer.
(THERE IS A LONG SILENCE BETWEEN THEM. FINALLY:)
SUSAN: How many people have you told about asking me to marry you tonight?
BILL: No one, except Laura and Mickey, of course.
SUSAN: If they mention it tomorrow, please tell them you didn't ask me to marry you tonight.
(TAKE BILL'S REACTION. HE IS COMPLETELY THROWN)
SUSAN: I need a few days to think.
BILL: Why, Susan?
SUSAN: Because I want the same thing you want, Bill. A marriage based on honesty...A marriage looking toward the future, not the past...
(MUSIC: UP TO FINISH AND OUT. FADE TO: BLACK. UP ON: COMMERCIAL POSITION # 6. MUSIC: THEME. UP ON: HOUR GLASS/MATTE CARD.)


Episode # 787: Prelude to Christmas: Susan Seaforth's Debut as Julie, Part 2
Airdate: Friday, December 20, 1968



Dan Ferrone
(Lou)


In San Francisco, Julie (Susan Seaforth in her 2nd episode) is getting ready to leave San Francisco for Salem. Lou, Julie’s boyfriend, is disappointed that she’s leaving for Salem. He even asks if he can accompany her to meet her family. Lou tells her that he’s in love with her and wants to marry her. Julie tells him that she isn’t in love. Lou tells her that she won't let go of the past and that’s why she cant fall in love with him.

Episode # 788

Air Date: Monday, December 23, 1968

 

PROLOGUE

(This being the Christmas season, we will avoid the clinical aspects of Janet’s illness and play the manifestation of her condition as fatigue. Though Janet, being Janet, will resist her every physical limitation, will in fact, fight to ward it off for as long as she humanly can, inevitably there will be those moments when she must give in to it. She does this by either sitting down or by leaning somewhat heavily on a table or counter area. But we keep it subtle and underplayed. As for Susan, she’s been somewhat subdued both yesterday and today although she’s tried to mask her feelings, Janet has been aware that something is disturbing her. It’s afternoon in the Banning Apartment. We open in the kitchen area. Janet, for the moment, is alone. She looks into the oven where there are about three metal sheets of homemade Christmas cookies of all traditional sizes and shapes. Janet first peeks at the cookies, smiles a faint smile—which is all she can muster at the moment, then while bent over she closes her eyes, touches the side of her head, more out of dizziness than pain. She closes the oven door, braces herself for a few moments on the counter, than as she gets her bearings once again she looks off to make certain Susan didn’t see her—but she just looks, she doesn’t have to move anywhere to determine this. Then Janet again opens the open door, takes out the cookie sheets, puts them on the table as Susan returns to the kitchen, having just looked in on Brad. Keep Susan a shade subdued.)

Janet and Susan first talk about how Brad is going to love Christmas, the cookies, etc… Janet notices that Susan hasn’t been her cheery self and asks her if something’s wrong. Janet and Susan have become very close friends and know each other well. Each of them wonder how well they know one another. Susan finally opens up and tells her that it's partly Bill and Julie coming back to Salem. Susan tells her she was her best friend. Janet thinks that shouldn’t worry her but Susan tells her the “friendship” was a long time ago and a lot has happened.


ACT ONE

(Immediately pick up Int. Banning Apartment):

Janet asks more about Susan's “friend”, Julie. She asks if she’s going to visit Susan. Susan tells her that Julie’s here to visit her family. Susan tells Janet she thinks that Julie doesn’t want to see her. Janet suspects something happened to their friendship. Susan tells her there's a chain of events in which Julie blames her and it wasn’t her fault. Janet can't imagine anyone being upset with Susan. Susan tells Janet perhaps she’ll tell her what happened but for right now, she wants to keep it in the past. They change the subject to Bill. Janet asks Susan if she wants to talk about Bill. She knows Susan hopes to marry him. Susan tells her that there isn’t going to be a marriage. Janet wasn’t sure, but she noticed Susan’s indecision about it. Susan tells her that she and Bill talked and decided to just be good friends. Janet thinks that in time, they’ll get back together. Janet confesses now that Susan’s not together with Bill, she’s grateful that she’ll be in her family’s lives. She, Brad and Scott have become very attached to Susan and think of her as family. Janet thought that Susan getting married wouldl change their friendship because Susan’s priority would be her husband. Janet especially plays up the role Susan has with Brad. She hopes her relationship with Brad never changes. Brad wakes up. Susan goes to get him as Janet finishes the cookies.  Susan goes to Brad and changes his clothes and shows him the Christmas tree:

(Long, Long pause. Finally from Janet’s vantage point, see Susan carrying Brad (whos wearing his little “sleeper”) into the living room where only the Christmas tree lights are on. It is a big and beautiful tree and the baby heasn’t seen it lighted before this moment. Cut to Susan as she and Brad approach the tree. Capture the boy’s reaction, his beautifully expressive face, Susan holding him very close)

Susan takes him up to the tree and tells him what it is and how Santa is going to give him lots of presents because he’s such a good little boy. She kisses him on the cheek. Janet is watching this interaction between Susan and Brad.


ACT TWO

(Front hall stairs of Horton home. Bring Tom slowly and thoughtfully down the stairs. He stops, looks at his watch, hesitates another thoughtful moment, then walks into the living room where Alice is opening Christmas cards. The Christmas tree is already up. Also, there should be evidence of Christmas cards on display. It won't be important to this script, but it will be important to a subsequent one. Alice casually looks up as Tom enters, but there is no smile as she’s more preoccupied with the card she’s looking at)

Alice sees a card from the Bannings and tells Tom that she didn’t send them one. She thinks about sending it now, but Tom tells her that she shouldn’t. Now they both think of the tragedy that has befallen that family. Tom feels that Janet will try her best to put on a brave face for her family. Tom mentions Susan being there for them during this time. Tom then lights his pipe and tells Alice that they should be thinking of going to the airport soon to pick up Julie. Tom begins skimming through a medical journal and Alice fixes the Christmas card on the mantle. Tom suggests that they go out for dinner but Alice says she already has everything ready and can't wait to see Julie again. Alice goes to get her purse and Tom looks at the Banning Christmas card…the doorbell rings- it's Julie with several suitcases and presents. Tom is shocked to see her and she tells him that she was able to get an earlier flight. Alice comes down the stairs and see Julie. They hug and Alice wishes her Merry Christmas. Tom notice this warm moment between grandmother and granddaughter, he however, has this lingering doubt about his granddaughter’s stay in Salem. (Jason47 note: This is Susan Seaforth's first scene in Salem, and her first scene with Macdonald Carey and Frances Reid).


ACT THREE

(Int. Horton Living Room- A short time later. It is terribly important that Tom straddle the fence here: A. he does love this girl, she’s his granddaughter. But B. he’s been hurt by her before and will deftly measure her every word. He wants to trust her—but in view of the past, can he? Nor is he insensitive to her slight reserve towards him. First and foremost is his concern for her future security, happiness and well being. However, he’s not about to be easily taken in—in this scene, or the shows to follow. But Julie is up to matching “wits” with him. Take Tom alone in the living room as he’s cleaning his pipe, whatever. Then he and we hear, off:)

Julie comes into the living room after asking Alice if she needs any help. Tom and Julie have small talk about the weather in California vs. here in cold, snowy Salem. She says she misses white Christmases because she was born in Salem. She says it's all about the environment people are raised in. She doesn’t want Tom to know that she plans on staying…not yet. Tom mentions the letters that he’s written to her and asking her if she ever needed any money. Julie tells him that she doesn’t. Tom thinks she’s working but Julie corrects him and says she has the money from her trust and John Martin sends her money each month. Tom is surprised but Julie plays coy thinking that Tom has always known. He asks how long John has been sending money. Julie tells him the day John found out that she was having David’s baby. Tom asks how much he sends and she tells him $700 a month. He hopes that he’s been saving most of the money but she tells him no, she spends it- every cent to try and forget. Julie is starting to lose her temper and tells Tom that he’s not wasting time in trying to get her to lose her temper with him. He tells her that she brought it up and that wasn’t his intention at all. Then Tom really wants to know how she’s doing. Julie states she’s fine but Tom thinks she needs to adjust to her life, to live with the past. Julie thinks he's fishing around about her son- is she giving up looking for him? Julie tells him yes, so she guesses that’s what he means by adjusting. Tom’s not sure he can believe her answer. She’s trying not to let Tom get to her and now she brings up Susan’s name. Julie asks Tom what he expects of her regarding Susan and giving up her baby for adoption.


ACT FOUR

(Int Banning Apartment- Evening. After dinner. Scott is holding Brad. And whatever Brad is doing, we let Scott reflect the impeding tragedy in his expression as he looks at the Christmas tree. His back is toward the kitchen. Establish, then bring Janet into the room. She stops for a moment and treasures the sight of her husband and son by the Christmas tree. Then she approaches. She puts her hand on Scott’s shoulder, unmindful of his mood. He immediately plays the masquerade. He puts his arm around Janet.)

Scott tells her that the tree is the prettiest they have had. Janet tells him that Susan did most of the decorating while she was baking the cookies. He’s says he will thank Susan later. Janet tells Scott that she invited Susan over for Christmas dinner, and Scott is surprised. He thinks she would spend it with Bill. Janet then tells him that Bill and Susan are not going to get married. Scott asks what happened and Janet says it was Susan’s decision. Scott can't believe that Bill would break it off with such a wonderful girl. Scott finds it surprising that just the other day Susan was so optimistic, hoping that Bill would propose. He doesn’t believe that she would be the one to back away. Scott asks if Susan’s depressed about the relationship ending. Janet tells her that Susan was more worried about her friend coming back into town and not talking about the skeletons in her closet. They start talking about how loving, caring and patient Susan is with Brad. They say she’s the most important person in his life (next to them.) They also agree on how all of them want to raise Brad in the same way. Janet stops herself from talking too much about Susan. Scott doesn’t notice and tells her that she is part of their family. Janet changes the subject and asks if they can take a family picture so they can start an album. Scott realizes the significance of the album and tells her that they can do whatever she wants. Janet tells him that she wants to make this the best Christmas ever.  He tells her that it will be and they embrace.



Episode # 789
Airdate: Tuesday, December 24, 1968




Angus Duncan
(Dr. Tony Romano)

 


PROLOGUE

(Int. Corridor Outside of Bill’s Quarters- Afternoon. Take Romano wearing white resident’s jacket, with a hospital memorandum in his hand as he approaches Bill’s Quarters half humming some undistinguishable and non-melodic “song.” There is a somewhat off-the-cuff intensity in his expression, not the kind suggesting a doctor’s concern for a patient, but rather a bachelor waiting for an overdue phone call from a luscious blonde. But there is no smile. And this should be characteristic of Tony Romano M.D.—a certain drive and intensity, he’s always negotiating something or someone in his mind. Unless, of course, there’s some medical personal crisis—which there won’t be for this young man for some time. Without knowing, without hesitating, he walks into Bill’s Quarters, sort of waving the memorandum, expecting Bill to be there)

Tony can’t wait to tell the news of the memo and goes into Bill’s quarters hoping to find him there. Bills not and Tony goes to write something clever on the memo when his on-call bell goes off. He calls and is happy to hear it's one of his dates calling. Tony asks her to be his date on New Year's Eve. As he’s putting his feet up and talking to this woman, Bill walks in. Tony sees him and gives him the memo. Bill’s watching as Tony asks about bringing drinks to a party. Tony’s disappointed that his date, Shirley, is a ginger ale girl. He tells her that a staff member is going on vacation and that he can use their apartment. He wants to celebrate with her with a small and cozy party. Tony finds out that Shirley;s brother is home on military leave and maybe they can invite him to the party. Tony abruptly cancels the date after she insists on inviting her brother. He hangs up and asks Bill about the memo. The memo says that the hospital needs more patient rooms so the staff will be sharing quarters, starting in the new year. Tony calls him his new roommate. The phone rings…it's another girl for Tony named Ruthie. Bill is now impatient with Tony and tells him he’s waiting for a call. Tony asks Ruthie if he can call her back on another phone. He goes to leave and notices one bed and asks if they’re going to put another bed so he can sleep. After Tony leaves, Bill shakes his head and smiles. He goes to call Susan. He asks Susan if he can stop by her place. She agrees and they hang up.


ACT ONE 
 

(Int. Horton Kitchen. Scene in progress between Alice and Julie who’re both making Turkey dressing, Julie smelling walnuts. Keep Julie somewhat subdued despite the rapport she has with her grandmother)

Alice and Julie are talking about the gift that Alice got for Tom: a dictating machine. Alice says that Tom always struggles with the old one but thinks he’s become attached to it. She says the older something is, the more attached he becomes to it. Julie jokes that means she should feel very secure. Julie tells Alice that he’ll be happy with the gift since the old one is broken. Julie asks about Tom's present for Alice. Alice says that she doesn’t know and all she does know is that he’s picking it up today. Then she tells Julie that she never knows what he gets her. Julie corrects her and tells her that she knew that she was going to get a coat last Christmas. Alice says she didn’t know it was going to be a mink. Julie tells Alice that she’s so lucky to have a great marriage and thinks that she and David would have had a marriage like theirs. They change the subject to the family dinner. Julie asks who’s going to come over. Alice tells her that Mickey, Laura, Michael, Tommy and Bill will be there. Julie asks about Susan but Alice tells her that she won't be there. Alice asks if she knows why Susan’s not coming.


ACT TWO

Julie is still questioning Alice about Susan. She asks Alice if Susan was invited after she knew that she (Julie) was coming home. Alice says she was invited before and after. She and Bill are very close. Bill thought that Julie’s attitude towards Susan would have changed. Then Julie asks if they’re going to get married. Alice tells her that Tom thinks they’re getting married. Julie says that would make her her Aunt. Alice tells her that she should realize that's why Susan isn’t here- it's because of her. Alice explains that Susan didn’t want to upset her so she decided not to come. Susan hopes one day that they can salvage some sort of friendship between them. Alice tells her that Susan was found not guilty. Julie protests but Alice keeps explaining to her that Susan has changed. She has matured and is dedicated. Then she tells her of the poor family across the hall whom Susan has dedicated herself to helping because the young mother has very little time to live. She’s helping her husband and son cope. Julie counters that she doesn’t care about that family and she had a son and she doesn’t have him now because of Susan. Julie reminds Alice that she doesn’t have a grandson because of Susan. Julie says time hasn’t healed her wounds.

(DISSOLVE TO…Int. Susan’s Apartment. Susan has a very small table tree with five or six gifts beneath it. She’s holding Brad—and she is somewhat mooded. She walks toward the tree)

Susan is talking to little Brad and telling him that she doesn’t think that his parents would mind him opening a present. She calls herself a second mother to Brad and kisses him on the cheek.


ACT THREE

(Take it up almost immediately. We open with a little spontaneous business with the child here as both Susan and Brad are down on the floor and he’s trying to rip off the wrappings. Susan helps him when he needs help—but only to start a tear here and there—letting Brad do as much of this as possible. We have some action toy inside the box—something with movement, something he hasn’t seen before, perhaps something you wind up. Susan ad libs with him—but she remains mooded despite her smile, her love and devotion. We play this for as long as we can—because this can and should be a wonderful “moment.” And, it is drama—our audience knowing, of course, that this is Julie’s baby. Then when Brad’s finally playing with the little toy, watching it…take Susan as she looks at him with deep love, thinking of Janet, thinking of the future)

Susan is telling Brad to smile and that she will make sure that he’s always protected and cared for. That she will tell him of his real mother, Janet, after she passes away. Susan says she will always be close to him and love him. The doorbell rings...it's Bill. Bill is subdued and now that he sees baby Brad, can’t help but think about his own baby boy. He tells her Merry Christmas. Susan tells him that Scott and Janet went to evening services and left Brad with her. Bill uncharacteristically takes Brad’s hand and asks about the little toy. Susan says that’s one of the presents she gave him. Susan senses his emotions towards Brad. Bill hands Susan her present, she tells him his present is under the tree. As she goes to take his coat, Bill stares at the little boy, thinking of his own. He loses himself as he looks at Brad and Susan asks what he’s thinking about. He tells her for the first time he understands Julie’s emotions at not being with her son at Christmas. Susan doesn’t take this personally. She also knows the pain.


ACT FOUR

(A short time later):

Bill has Brad’s little toy in his hand. Susan has just come from the bedroom where Brad is sleeping. She asks if Bill wants some egg nog and he declines. There’s some awkward silence, then Susan gets Bill’s present from the tree and hands it to him. The mood is somber as they give each other looks. Susan breaks the mood by asking Bill if they should open their presents now. Bill starts opening his present first. Susan gives him a beautiful yellow cashmere sweater. He thinks it's funny. Susan asks him why and he tells her to open her present and she’ll see. As she’s opening it, she guesses what he means: he also bought her a yellow cashmere sweater. They both smile at each other. She likes the idea and they look at each other. Bill finally says what he’s been keeping in and asks her how she can stand the sight of him after everything he’s told her. She plainly tells Bill that she loves him. She’ll always love him and treasure him. But she thinks their relationship was never meant to be. Then she talks about her commitment to Brad and how he’s committed to stay away from his son's life for the sake of Laura and Mickey and little Michael. He tells her that he’s not that committed to staying away as he has a gift for Michael and was going to give it to him. Susan tells him to let go. Bill asks Susan again to marry him. Susan tells him the day that he can get his feelings resolved for his son and Laura is the day that she’ll marry him. Then he gets up, picks up the little toy and tells Susan that he doesn’t know if that day will ever come. (Hold on Bill, the Christmas Tree…and fade out)



Episode # 790

Airdate: Wednesday, December 25, 1968

   
John Clarke (Mickey)...Susan Flannery (Laura)...John Lupton (Tommy)...Regina Gleason (Kitty)...Heather North (Sandy)

PROLOGUE

(Int. Horton Living Room- Very Early Christmas Morning. Open on the Christmas tree in all its glory, then slowly pull back to include Alice, dressed in a becoming and festive robe, sitting on the sofa admiring the tree. There is a soft smile on her face. After a beat, Tom enters from upstairs, stands looking at Alice a moment, then joins her)

Tom kisses his wife and wishes her a Merry Christmas. He was asleep and he asks why she didn't wake him. Alice tells him that she just wanted to have a few moments by herself to remember all the past Christmases. She tell Tom that she misses the Christmases where the kids were little, stomping down the stairs, full of noise. Tom also misses it. Alice tells him that now they’re lucky to see the grandkids opening the presents. She wants Laura and Mickey to have more kids very soon. Alice now thinks of these Christmases as the “golden years.” She remembers the little time they had to themselves during Christmas was when the kids were asleep. They would each open one present and finish decorating the Christmas tree. Alice picks up a present and tells him that this one can’t wait to be opened. She wants to see his reaction. Alice wants him to promise to tell her if he doesn’t like the present. Tom says he likes all her presents. He sees it’s a dictaphone and is thrilled. She asks him about his old one and Tom says he doesn’t mind giving that one up because it didn’t work. Tom says they can try it out today as they record Christmas conversations. Alice thinks that’s a great idea and runs down the guest list for today: Mickey, Laura, baby Michael, Tommy and Kitty. She’s so grateful that they have Tommy back.

(DISSOLVE TO… Int. Mark and Kitty’s Apartment. Jason47 Note: The scripts still list Tommy Horton as Mark Brooks. Camera in close on Mark’s face, a study in conflicting emotions. Camera pulls back slowly to reveal Mark, alone, dressed in a robe, looking at the lighted Christmas tree. Presents are beneath the tree. We hear Mark’s brief train of thought)

Mark is talking to himself saying it's his first Christmas with his daughter and Kitty.

(His train of thought is broken by the sound of approaching footsteps. Mark turns in time to see Kitty, dressed in a robe, enter from the hall. She is carrying a beautifully wrapped present. They stand looking at each other for a moment, their faces blank, emotionless. When Kitty speaks, her voice is subdued.)


Kitty says Merry Christmas to Mark. He says thanks...for letting their daughter have a happy Christmas.


ACT ONE

(Take it up immediately. Kitty and Mark stand looking at each other then we hear: SOUND: A door slam down the hall  Sandy comes rushing into the living room, tying the belt of her robe, a big smile on her face.)

Sandy says Merry Christmas to Kitty and Mark. She gives them a big hug. She’s excited for the present that they got Mark. Mark wants a cup of coffee first. Sandy woke up early to make the coffee and breakfast so that they could unwrap the gifts at the same time. She goes to the kitchen to get a tray of food and coffee. She wants everyone to take their time opening the presents and reading the cards. Mark tells her she could have been a sergeant in the army. Sandy says if she’s going to have the best Christmas ever, she’s got to be organized. Sandy hands them a mug of coffee and she wants to make a speech. Sandy starts with telling both of them how she’s noticed the glances between them. She tells Kitty that she knows that she’s been pushing her to have extra time with her father and really appreciates it. This is why she’s giving them a getaway weekend for them to reconnect. She asked Tom for a Christmas check and she’s also used her allowance to pay for the weekend.  Sandy asks them if they’re pleased. Mark tells her it's sure a surprise. Kitty tells her it was very sweet of her to do this for them. Sandy says that they can go any place they want...up to a certain monetary limit, that is! They both tell her that the gift is very sweet. Now Sandy tells her father to open another present. She goes to the tree to get his present. He asks her when she’s going to open hers. She says “Santa” opens her presents last. Sandy hands Mark the present and tells him that this one was mother’s idea. She tells him to read the card out loud. He opens the present- a leather bound manuscript. They are his original notes from the lab bound in leather. Sandy tells him that Kitty worked on this project for months with Tom. Mark is speechless and looks at Kitty with gratitude. Sandy smiles at his reaction.


ACT TWO

(Int. Horton Living Room- Later. Open on close up of tape recorder. Camera pulls back to include Alice as she switches it on)

Alice reminds everyone to act naturally as she pulls back the camera to get the whole group.

(She turns to smile at the group and camera pulls back to include Tom and Mickey and Laura, all dressed in their Christmas best. Laura looks lovely)

Alice tells everyone that she and Tom thought it would be nice to record some of their thoughts on Christmas with his new tape recorder. Alice presses some buttons as she asks Tom to help her with the machine and we hear his pre-taped message:

TOM’S VOICE: Merry Christmas, everybody—and a very Merry Christmas to my wife, Alice, who, as usual, has found the perfect gift for me.”(Beat) “Darling I can see the surprise on your face now—

(Alice is surprised. She turns to Tom, who grins, and both Mickey and Laura are amused. The tape continues:)

TOM’S VOICE: But I seldom get a chance to say all the nice things I want to say to you. So what better time than now, as our family gathers for Christmas together…

(Take everyone’s reactions, a beat as Tom’s taped voice pauses and then continues. The moment is filled with nostalgia for everyone.)

TOM’S VOICE:  Everyone knows what a wonderful mother and homemaker you are. But I’m the only man in the world who knows what kind of a wife you have been all these years.


(Take Mickey, who reaches for Laura’s hand. Take Alice’s face as she turns to look at Tom. The voice continues.)

TOM’S VOICE: So, to begin this Christmas recording, a toast to my wife, who is the very spirit of Christmas herself—always kind, always compassionate, always thinking of everyone else. Always putting my happiness and comfort ahead of her own. I thank you, my dear wife…my dear, dear Alice.


(The voice has ended. There is a moment of silence.)

ALICE: Oh, Tom…

(She turns to embrace him and he holds her tenderly for a moment. Mickey, a big grin on his face, goes to switch off the tape.)


MICKEY: Well, while you two lovebirds carry on, I’d better switch this to RECORD or else you’ll have a lot of blank tape.


(As he switches it on: SOUND: a baby crying off in the study comes over shot)

(Laura reacts quickly)

LAURA:  That must be Michael.


(She gets to her feet.)


MICKEY:  Who else? Tell him to turn the volume up so we can catch his voice.

(Sound: The crying gets louder.) (Everyone laughs)

MICKEY:  Dad, you want to check this—make sure we’re recording?

ALICE: Laura, I’ll go get the bottle, dear, and start heating it.

LAURA:  Thank you, Alice.

(She exits towards study. As Alice exits living room: SOUND: Doorbell Rings)


ALICE: Tom, will you get that, dear?

(CUT TO…Ext. Horton Front Porch. Kitty, Mark, and Sandy, dressed warmly and loaded with presents, stand on the porch. Mark rings the doorbell again, as camera moves in on Sandy’s face. It is all aglow)

Sandy asks Mark if this is the best Christmas ever. He looks at Kitty and agrees with Sandy. Tom opens the door and wishes them all a Merry Christmas. Tom tells Kitty she looks like Mrs. Claus. He tells them Alice is in the kitchen and shows Sandy where to put all the presents. The baby starts crying and Alice enters with a baby bottle. Alice wishes them Merry Christmas as she goes to baby Michael, who’s still crying for his bottle. She hands the bottle to Laura. Everyone is having a good time.


(We stay in hall as camera slowly pulls back to include the stairway. Slowly, unseen yet by anyone, Julie starts coming down the stairs. Camera moves in on her face as she pauses on the landing, her mind on her own baby, and we can read her thoughts as we hear the voices off in the living room. Baby has stopped crying.)

Julie is hearing everyone's voice as they look at baby Michael and comment on him grabbing bottle, looking so cute. Tom says there’s nothing like having a baby around Christmastime.


(And we hold on Julie’s stricken face a long moment. Before we take it out)


ACT THREE

(Int. Horton Study. Open on Laura’s face. She is smiling down at her baby (off -camera). It can be a doll here. She is listening to the sound of Christmas music coming from the living room. Someone is playing a recording of “O Little Town of Bethlehem” MUSIC: O LITTLE TOWN OF BETHLEHEM Laura, listening to the music and gently rocking the baby, looks like a Madonna herself. The door to the study opens and Mickey enters. Laura looks up, making a warning sound for Mickey to be quite. He tiptoes over for a peek at his son. Take Mickey’s face in close.)

MICKEY (softly) Asleep?


(Laura nods and carefully moves to put the baby, wrapped in his receiving blanket, in a small old-fashioned cradle. NOTE: This has been in the Horton Family for years. It should be old looking. Alice has brightened it with festive ribbons for young Michael Horton. As Laura busies herself with the baby, gently arranging him in the cradle, covering him with another blanket, take Mickey watching his wife, his love for her very apparent.)

MUSIC: CHRISTMAS MUSIC CONTINUES SOFTLY IN B.G.

(This should be a lovely moment. Mickey joins Laura at the side of the cradle. He puts his arm around her and they stand there, looking at their baby. Camera angle so we do not see the baby)

MUSIC: O.S. HYMN COMES TO AN END

(Mickey repeats, looking down at his sleeping son:)

MICKEY: (very softly) “The hopes and fears of all the years are met in you tonight.” (Laura turns to him and Mickey kisses her gently on the forehead.) Look at him, darling – our son—

LAURA:  (very soft, a radiant happiness on her face) Yes, Mickey—our son…

(CUT TO Ext. Horton Front Porch. In close, as Bill rings the doorbell. He is loaded down with presents and there is a sprinkling of snow on his shoulders.)

(CUT TO Int. Horton Dining Room. As Alice and Julie enter, each carrying covered dishes to set on the table.) SOUND: DOORBELL OVER (Alice glances at Julie)

Alice asks Julie to get the doorbell, telling her it's probably Bill. Julie goes to get the door, recalling her last encounter with Bill as not pleasant and then remembers Susan. Sandy enters with another covered dish. Sandy comments that the table looks wonderful. Alice tells Sandy that Marie had the flowers sent and reads the cable: “To Mom and Dad and everybody—I miss you—I love you—My thoughts are with you today—and—all the days of our lives. Merry, Merry, Christmas. Love, Marie.”


(CUT TO Ext. Porch. Bill is about to ring again, as the door opens and Julie stands there. She is pleasant but subdued)

Bill awkwardly wishes Julie a Merry Christmas. Fortunately, Tom and Mark join Julie and Bill at the door. Tom tells him that he’s just in time for the Christmas toast. Bill asks where Alice is and Tom tells him she’s in the kitchen. Julie takes Bill’s coat and he asks where everyone is. Julie tells him most are in the living room. He asks about the “Tiger” (baby Michael) and she tells him that he’s asleep.

(CUT TO Int. Living Room. In close on pitcher pouring tomato juice. Camera pulls back to reveal Mickey as he hands a glass to someone)

Mickey hands the glass to Kitty and looks up and notices no one’s in the living room. As he hands a drink to Laura, he asks her go and round up everyone and check on the baby. Mickey asks Kitty where’s she been lately. Tommy comes over a lot but usually without her. She tells him that she’s been very busy with Christmas stuff. Before everyone comes, he makes a toast to Kitty for making his brother’s life happy and giving him a real family. He says all one has to do is look at Sandy’s face to tell how great of a family they are. All Kitty can say is thank you. 


ACT FOUR

(Int. Horton Dining Room. Short Time Later. Tom is carving the turkey. Alice is directing people to their seats.


ALICE: Tommy—you sit there—I know you want to be next to your wife. (Mark and Kitty exchange painful glances) Sandy—sit across from your parents, next to Julie.

SANDY:  Okay, Grandma.

ALICE: Mickey, you’re right there—and Laura—(Looking around) Where’s Laura?

MICKEY: (with a grin) Checking Michael William Horton—where else?


(CUT TO Int. Study. Shot of Michael, face down, sleeping on his stomach. Camera pulls back to include Bill, who has a big grin on his face. He speaks in a whisper.)

BILL: Hi, there, Tiger!


(Laura, unseen by Bill, enters in the B.G., stops short. Take her reaction. Then back to Bill.)

BILL: How you doing, fella?

(He turns, sees Laura watching him. He puts a warning finger to his lips, in a very un-Bill-like gesture. Then he crosses to her side. Speaks a little above a whisper.)


BILL: I just checked him—he’s sound asleep! (Take Laura’s reaction and back to Bill) He’s quite a little guy—your son…

(CUT TO. Int. Dining Room. As everyone settles into their seats. Alice is seated, Tom at the head of the table. Laura and Bill enter, quietly taking their seats. Mickey stands to seat Laura. And all eyes turn toward Tom. Various ad libs to cover above action)

MICKEY: Mom, the turkey smells wonderful.

SANDY:  I don’t know about anyone else, but I’m starved.

JULIE: So am I!

KITTY:  Alice, I don’t know how you do it—serving so many people.

ALICE: I love it…(looking around the table)  Tom—I think we’re ready…

TOM: (He bows his head and everyone follows suit) Dear Lord, bless this food we are about to eat. And bless our family, those of us gathered around this table—and those far away—Marie—Addie—Ben—who cannot be with us. (Beat. Camera begins a pan of the faces at the table, coming to rest first on Sandy and Julie) We are happy to have our two granddaughters with us and—(Camera pans to Kitty and Mark) –we are grateful for the return of our eldest son, Tommy, to his wife and family. (Camera moves on to Laura and Mickey) It has been a very good year. You answered our prayers and, thanks to You, we have a new grandson in the house today. We have Laura, safe and well. (Camera moves to Bill, then back to Tom, as he looks at his youngest son) I want to especially thank you, Dear Lord, for giving my son, Bill, the skill and the courage to save both Laura and her baby. (Beat) With your blessing, we all look forward to a peaceful, happy New Year…Amen…

(MUSIC UP. As everyone raises their heads and begins the ritual of the Horton Christmas Dinner, and take it out)



Episode # 791

Airdate: Thursday, December 26, 1968


John Zaremba
(Judge Turner)

 


PROLOGUE
(It is still Christmas, although we do not say so specifically. Open on Int. Banning Living Room. Janet, sitting on the floor, showing Brad how to play with one of his new toys. There are opened presents under the tree. Hold on Janet and Brad for a moment—then camera moves to Susan and Scott, taking their reactions as they watch Janet with Brad)


Janet is trying to teach Brad how to play with his wind-up toy. He tries but pushes it over and everyone laughs. Brad mimics his mother saying, “Boom-E-Do” and Janet is so proud of him for trying to say it. She tells Scott she wishes that they had recorded all the gurgling sounds that he made in his playpen. She tells him it would have been nice to play when Brad was older and to listen to their voices. The mood saddens and Susan changes the subject. She tells Janet that the dinner was wonderful but she ate too much. Janet asks Scott to bring out the camera so they can take picture of the tree and all the presents. He leaves to get the camera and Janet asks Susan to take a picture of her family. Susan says she’ll be glad to. Janet tells her that they need to get going and making that album for Brad to have when he’s older. It’ll be a good keepsake to remember the times he was young. Susan agrees knowing that Janet really wants to be remembered when she’s gone. Janet tells Susan that it was wonderful to have her here for Christmas. Susan tells her she enjoyed herself, being a part of a family. Janet tells her she is, and hopes she will always be, part of this family.

ACT ONE

(A short time later. Open on close shot of Janet, Scott and Brad, posing for a picture, in front of the Christmas tree, they all are smiling, a warm family pose. Then we see the flashbulbs go off.  Camera pulls back to include Susan, who has taken the picture)

Susan tells them that the picture is going to turn out great. Now she want a picture of Janet and Brad. Scott takes the camera and takes the picture. Janet asks Susan to take Brad for a moment. Janet feels a bit tired, trips but recovers her balance. She picks up the toy that she tripped over. Janet pretends to scold Brad telling him to pick up his toys. Susan tells her soon enough he’ll be able to do just that. Scott takes Brad and tells Janet to have a seat. He tells her that the lighting by the couch would be better for a picture. She sits down and Scott gives her Brad to hold on her lap. Scott gives her the toy to distract Brad and he takes the picture. Janet says it's way past his bedtime and Susan goes to help her by taking Brad as she stands up. Susan kisses him and tells him goodnight. Susan gives Brad to Scott and he hugs and wishes him the same. Now, Brad is in Janet’s arms. Susan thanks Janet again for including her today. Janet senses that she’s leaving and tells her not to go until after she puts the baby to bed. She goes to put Brad to bed. Scott thanks Susan for being here with them today. She says she should be the one thanking them. Scott asks if today was too depressing and Susan disagrees. This house is filled with love and can’t be depressing. Scott comments to Susan that Janet is a remarkable woman and she will be until the very end. Susan says that he’s given her the strength to carry on. She tells him that she’s glad that they took all those pictures because someday Brad will ask about his mother. He will be able to show him the pictures and have a place in her heart. Susan says all of us have learned to live one day at a time. 
 

ACT TWO

(Int. Horton Living Room- About the Same Time. Julie and Bill are alone. The others have gone home. Tom and Alice are in the kitchen, having coffee. There is no open conflict between Bill and Julie in this scene, even though they read each other like a book. Open on Julie. Pouring a cup of coffee. Camera pulls back to include Bill as she hands him a cup. She has almost drained the serving pot)

Julie tells Bill that Tom and Alice are making more coffee. Bill thinks they’re stealing a moment to be alone as well. Julie agrees and says she’s grown up in this house and knows it. It's been great seeing Tom and Alice still in love and happy all those years. Bill tells her that he’s glad she came back for Christmas. Giving him a doubting look, Julie asks if he really means that. Bill asks why? She tells him that he wanted to invite Susan and because she’s here, Susan was uninvited. Bill says she didn’t want to come, she was never uninvited. Julie tells him he's not very bright if he thought Susan would want to spend Christmas with her. He agrees saying that Susan was the first to pick up on the possible tension but it wasn’t because she didn’t want to see her. She makes a sarcastic remark about being fond of her and Bill asks her when she’s going to let her anger go. Why is she still hostile towards Susan? Julie questions whether she sounded hostile but Bill tells her that her tone is hostile. Now, she’s asks him if he’s going to lecture her again. Bill asks her if that’s what she thinks is happening here. Julie says that you, Grandpa and Mickey always lecture her about forgiving Susan. That it would be important for Susan’s well-being if she could forgive her. Bill tells her that the judge says there was nothing to forgive. Julie, in a bitter tone, tells him he’s right, about what the judge said. Bill tells her that he can read her like a book. Julie tells him that she knows Susan killed her lover. She knew she would have no father for her baby. Julie tells Bill maybe Susan's changed; it's been over a year since she gave her baby up for adoption. Bill softens and tells her that he’s hopeful that she can make a new life for herself.  Julie changes the interrogation to Bill and his desire to marry Susan. Bill asks who’s been spreading this rumor. She tells him all the family. Bill tells her that she’s like him, a loner, but she’ll be the first to know when he does get married. Julie tells him that she can’t picture him married to such a “goody two-shoes” as Susan. Bill agrees- she’s too good for either one of them. Then he tells her that she spent Christmas next door taking care of a little boy whose mother has only weeks to live. Julie is being sarcastic and tells him how touching. Bill tells her to stop hating on Susan. She gives him a smile and tells him that she’s given up hating altogether.

ACT THREE

(Int. Judge Turner’s Chambers- Following Day. Open on the judge, studying legal documents, the Banning file on the adoption of Brad, and camera slowly pulls back to include Scott, who stands anxiously awaiting the judge’s verdict. Finally, Judge Turner looks up at Scott. His manner is compassionate, understanding, but his attitude must be that the child comes first.)

The judge is telling Scott that this case is highly unusual but under the circumstances and having the report of Miss Williams, the case worker, he understands why Scott had to tell his wife that the adoption had been final. Scott tells him that he’s Brad’s father in every sense of the word. The judge tells him that he’s there for the welfare of the child. The judge asks how Scott told his wife about Miss Williams stopping by making unannounced visits. Scott tells him that he told Janet that they were social visits and not court-obligated ones. The judge states that Scott’s concern is that Brad is taken from him before the adoption is final. Scott agrees with his summation. The judge asks what steps has Scott taken for any emergencies. He tells her that his neighbor has been like a second mother to Brad. The judge tells him that the court will continue to monitor the situation with Miss Williams stopping by and making sure the child is well. He states that it is possible for a single person to adopt a child. The judge says it's not common but there’s one thing that concerns him. He’s concerned about all the steps Scott and Janet have taken to mask their adoption- changing their name, moving to another place. Scott tells him that both are worried about the adoption being a direct one. Judge Turner says that they were worried that the birth mother would come and claim the child. Scott corrects him and tells him that they’re not worried anymore because they have done everything to ensure their son’s future is safe and secure. The judge then asks about his wife’s illness. Scott tells him that she has very little time to live.

ACT FOUR

(Int. Horton Living Room- That Evening. Open on Julie, looking over the Christmas cards on display around the fireplace. She is looking at names. Tom is reading the evening paper. He looks up as Julie picks up one very pretty card.)

Julie comments that she doesn’t even know half the people that send them Christmas cards. She asks about the Bannings and Tom tells her that they’re Susan’s neighbors. Julie, sarcastic, says Susan even gets her neighbors to send you cards. Tom says that Mrs. Banning is a patient of his. Then Julie asks if it’s the one who’s “going to drop dead of a dreadful disease…” Tom gets annoyed and tells her that kind of talk is not becoming. She apologizes. She thinks that she’s had Susan shoved down her throat. Tom tells her if there’s talk of Susan, then the Bannings will probably be mentioned. She’s been a good friend to them and their baby. Julie says she’s heard she’s a “second mother.” Tom asks her if they are pushing Susan down her throat or just that she’s the one that brings her up. She thinks he may be right. Julie says that when she’s back in Salem, she thinks of her and her baby. Tom tells her maybe if she hadn’t met the adoptive parents, it would be easier on her. She tells her grandfather not to worry, she has given up searching for her baby, but cant help thinking if he had a happy Christmas. Tom says he probably did and tells her that she liked the parents well enough. He tells her that she needs to face what happened and learn to live with it. Then he says that Julie should go to Susan and try to re-kindle their friendship. Julie says “That’s a joke!” She doesn’t want to be around babies and Susan is trying to play pretend mommy to a baby.

(DISSOLVE TO…Int. Banning Apartment. Close shot- photo of Brad. Camera pulls back to reveal Scott and Janet looking at the pictures in Brad’s album. They are sitting on the couch, very happy, very loving)

Janet and Scott are looking through the album and baby Brad’s firsts: his first step, his first grin, when he first lost his hair. She can't wait to put the Christmas pictures in the album and hopes they turned out good. She asks how long the pictures will take to develop. He tells her that color ones take longer but he had them put a special rush so they could have them in the New Year. Janet can't believe how quick the year has gone. He tells her that they’re going to celebrate the New Year...just the two of them with a bottle of champagne. Janet says that it sounds perfect!