Épisode Retrouvailles S04E22 - Dr Quinn, Medicine Woman Saison 4

"Reunion"



Written by
Melissa Rosenberg



Directed by
Gwen Arner







CBS ENTERTAINMENT PRODUCTIONS Prod. #2244-0422
in association with PRODUCTION DRAFT
THE SULLIVAN COMPANY February 8, 1996
(C) MCMXCVI Rev. Blue, February 13, 1996
CBS Inc. Rev. Pink, February 15, 1996
All Rights Reserved Rev. Yellow, February 20, 1996
Rev. Green, February 21, 1996
Rev. Goldenrod, February 22, 1996

CBS INC. IS THE AUTHOR OF THIS PROGRAM
FOR THE PURPOSE OF COPYRIGHT AND OTHER LAWS

No portion of this material may be copied or distributed without the prior consent of CBS Inc.



DR. QUINN, MEDICINE WOMAN

"Reunion"

Cast List


MICHAELA QUINN
SULLY

MATTHEW
COLLEEN
BRIAN

LOREN
DOROTHY

ROBERT E
GRACE

CLOUD DANCING
BECKY

DOCTOR MIRIAM TILLSON


FEATURED EXTRAS: A FEW MEN CARRY PRINTING PRESS
*GIRL HELPS BECKY (SAME AGE) P. 37
BACKGROUND: TRAIN PASSENGERS
TOWNSFOLK

ANIMALS:
WOLF
DOE WITH FAWN (STOCK)


REVEREND OMITTED




TEASER


FADE IN:


INT. CLINIC - DAY ONE 1

CLOSE ON a photograph of Mike's medical school graduating class, which sits on a shelf on the wall. A dust rag flies over it as we PULL BACK to find MIKE doing a quick cleaning of the already spotless clinic. She's dressed for a festive occasion, bubbling with apprehensive excitement.

SULLY watches her from the doorway, an amused smile on his face as Mike rearranges the items on her desk.

SULLY
Place looks fine.

MIKE
Yes, I know, I'm just doing some last minute... sprucing.

Sully steps up behind her, wrapping his arms around her to calm her. She settles, surveying the clinic.

MIKE
You don't think it looks too... rustic, do you?

Sully turns her around to face him, answering her question with a gentle kiss.

SULLY
You should get to the station. Train's gonna be here any minute.

Mike glances at the clock, then back at Sully and nods, her nervousness building. He gives her a soothing smile.

SULLY
Nothin' to worry about.

MIKE
Who's worried?

Mike starts out, pausing briefly at the window to readjust the curtains. Sully just shakes his head and follows.


INT. OLD TELEGRAPH OFFICE/GAZETTE - DAY ONE 2

DOROTHY winces as ROBERT E and a few MEN (as many as needed) struggle to carry in an immense PRINTING PRESS from a wagon parked outside. They try their best, but still can't help slamming it into the doorway and walls, groaning under its weight.

(CONTINUED)

2.


CONTINUED: 2

DOROTHY
This way gentlemen... over here.

The men struggle to put the press in place. But just as they set it down:

DOROTHY
Wait...

They freeze. Dorothy gives them her most apologetic smile, feeling terrible about what she's about to say...

DOROTHY
I'm sorry, but... I think it might be easier to operate if it was over there.

She gestures, and the men go back to work, grunting and groaning as they move the press. Dorothy jostles to get out of their way. She moves over to the doorway, where LOREN steps up, watching the action, but making no move to assist.

LOREN
What the devil is that?

DOROTHY
My new printin' press. Bought it second hand from a fella in Denver.

LOREN
You know how to work that thing?

DOROTHY
I'll learn.

Loren studies the press a moment, shakes his head skeptically.

LOREN
Awful big.

The men lug the press into place with a heavy thud, then, with winded and weary expressions, they look to Dorothy for approval. Dorothy smiles... but Loren points to the original location they placed it.

LOREN
Look better over there.

As Robert E glares at Loren...


3.


EXT. TRAIN STATION - DAY ONE 3

Mike waits on the platform with Sully, COLLEEN and BRIAN (Colleen and Brian are dressed nicely and share Mike's excitement). MATTHEW comes over from the telegraph office.

MATTHEW
Train's on schedule.

Mike takes a settling breath, finally admitting:

MIKE
I didn't realize I'd be so nervous.

COLLEEN
I think it's excitin', seein' your best friend from college.

MATTHEW
Ten years is a long time --

He's cut short by the TRAIN WHISTLE, which BLOWS in the distance. Mike's eyes light up as she turns to the sound.

MIKE
That's her!


+ANGLE ON THE TRAIN 4

coming around the bend, WHISTLE BLOWING.


+BACK TO THE FAMILY 5

MIKE
(suddenly remembering)
The flowers, the flowers...

Matthew hurries over to a bench and picks up a bouquet of flowers, which he quickly hands to Mike. Sully puts his hand on Mike's shoulder.

SULLY
Take it easy. She's your friend, remember?

Mike smiles, settling a bit, as the train pulls to a stop. As the PASSENGERS begin disembarking:

COLLEEN
(to Mike, quickly)
Wait... How do we... I mean, what do we call her?

Mike's reply comes as she sees someone very familiar stepping off the train.

(CONTINUED)

4.


CONTINUED: 5

MIKE
(smiling)
Doctor Tilson.


+ANGLE ON MIRIAM TILSON 6

stepping off the train. She's attractive, wearing a dress and hat that set her apart from the crowd (Note: Miriam's wardrobe throughout should be striking, yet within the limits of acceptable fashion). In her hands she carries a medical bag.

MIRIAM
Michaela!

MIKE
Miriam.

They move to each other and embrace, a private moment.

MIRIAM
Side by side, ten years later... as promised.

MIKE
Ever since we made that vow at commencement, I've often wondered if it would actually happen.

Mike hands Miriam the flowers as the two exchange a warm, reflective smile. Miriam breaks the moment as she steps back to survey Mike's stomach.

MIRIAM
Look how big you are!
(sees Sully)
You must be Sully.

Sully nods, shakes her hand.

MIRIAM
(sidelong glance to Mike)
He's even more handsome than you described.

Mike laughs, embarrassed. Miriam turns to Brian, extending her hand.

MIRIAM
Let me see... Brian?

He nods. She shakes his hand, then turns to Matthew.

(CONTINUED)

5.


CONTINUED: 6

MIRIAM
And Matthew.
(shaking his hand)
Congratulations, Sheriff.

MATTHEW
Thanks.

MIRIAM
(turns to Colleen)
Colleen. It is indeed a pleasure.

COLLEEN
Hello, Dr. Tilson.

MIRIAM
Please... Miriam.

Colleen beams, as Miriam turns back to Mike.

MIRIAM
A decade. Can you believe it?
(beat)
I didn't realize I'd be so nervous.

Mike smiles at this.

SULLY
We'll get the luggage.

Sully, Matthew and Brian collect the luggage as Mike, Miriam and Colleen start for the wagon.

MIKE
I'm so glad you could make the trip.

MIRIAM
Nonsense. I wasn't about to have a pregnant woman come all the way to San Francisco... not to mention depriving this charming little town of its only doctor.

COLLEEN
Was it much trouble gettin' away from the hospital?

MIRIAM
My team can manage without me.

MIKE
Team?

(CONTINUED)

6.


CONTINUED: (2) 6

Miriam turns to Mike as they arrive at the wagon.

MIRIAM
Good news, Michaela. I've just been appointed senior surgeon of children's medicine at St. Lukes.

COLLEEN
(impressed)
Senior surgeon!

Mike notes Colleen's excitement, then turns to Miriam, pleased for her... but also a bit envious. Sully comes over in time to see this.

MIKE
Why, Miriam, that's... wonderful.

Miriam notices the old, rickety buckboard wagon, and raises an eyebrow.

MIRIAM
This is our transportation?

MIKE
I'm afraid so. But don't worry, the homestead isn't far.

MIRIAM
(beat, smiling)
We've both come a long way, haven't we?

Mike manages to return the smile, but can't help feel a flicker of tension beginning to build as we:

FADE OUT.

END TEASER




7.


ACT ONE


FADE IN:


INT. HOMESTEAD - NIGHT ONE 7

Mike, Sully, Colleen and Brian are finishing supper with Miriam, who's in the middle of a story.

MIRIAM
... very important, the most difficult examination of the semester. Dr. Nagle, our professor --
(quick aside to Brian)
-- pray that you never have an instructor such as he --
(back to the family)
-- he stood at the lectern. The room was deadly quiet as he read the questions, one by one...
(a smile to Mike)
... and then suddenly, there arose from the silence a noise...
(back to the family)
Snoring... coming from the seat directly beside me.

Miriam again looks at Mike, who reacts with an embarrassed smile.

COLLEEN
(realizing with a smile)
Ma?

MIKE
I'd been studying all night --

MIRIAM
You've never heard such a cacophonous wail.

Miriam playfully mimics the snore, causing everyone, including Mike, to break into laughter.

MIKE
It wasn't that loud.

MIRIAM
The lamps were rattling! And Dr. Nagle, he stopped the examination and watched you with that face. Do you remember the face he'd make?

(CONTINUED)

8.


CONTINUED: 7

MIKE
(remembers well)
The Nagle face. I still see it in my nightmares.

Miriam and Mike share a laugh.

SULLY
(to Mike)
Did you sleep through the whole test?

MIRIAM
No. Thankfully, I was there to give her a swift bump to the ribs, and she woke... somewhat startled I might add.

BRIAN
You get in trouble, Ma?

MIKE
Dr. Nagle was kind enough to let me complete the examination.

MIRIAM
She completed it all right.
(smiles at Mike)
Edged me out for the highest grade in the class...
(beat, still smiling)
As usual.

Mike looks at Miriam, trying to return the smile, but feeling a bit uneasy. Brian looks between the two, picking up on the subtle tension.


EXT. HOMESTEAD - PORCH - LATER - NIGHT ONE 8

Mike and Miriam now stand alone on the porch, coffee cups in hand, gazing up into the night sky.

MIRIAM
I made some additional inquiries regarding that boy you wrote me about. What was his name?

MIKE
Anthony.

MIRIAM
Anthony. I'm afraid no one has any answers. The symptoms are quite perplexing.
(MORE)

(CONTINUED)

9.


CONTINUED: 8

MIRIAM (CONT'D)
(off Mike's nod)
How's he doing?

MIKE
He fluctuates between attacks, but lately he seems to be feeling well.

MIRIAM
It's difficult with children. You want so much to help them... to take their pain away.
(beat)
Rachel contracted a respiratory infection last month, but she's feeling fine now. We treated her at the hospital.

MIKE
(smiles)
She has a birthday coming up.

MIRIAM
Four years old next month. And Robert Jr.'s turning seven in August.

MIKE
Where has the time gone?

Miriam doesn't answer, just stares up at the sky.

MIKE
How's Robert?

Miriam hesitates a moment, uneasy, although trying not to show it.

MIRIAM
He's well. Very busy.

MIKE
Is he still working at the hospital with you?

MIRIAM
(quiet)
Yes... yes, he is. We're quite a pair, dashing about the halls.

Mike looks at her friend, sees something is troubling her.

MIKE
Miriam... is something wrong?

(CONTINUED)

10.


CONTINUED: (2) 8

But Miriam won't look at her... just keeps staring up at the sky.

MIRIAM
The stars are so bright out here.

Mike realizes Miriam doesn't want to talk about it, so she doesn't press.

MIRIAM
I often look up at them... remember our dreams...

A smile forms on Mike's face as she gazes up at the stars.

MIKE
To be the finest physician in Boston.

MIRIAM
To be Chief of surgery, Philadelphia Hospital.

A quiet moment passes as the two reflect on the dreams they once entertained.

MIRIAM
(softly)
Things change.

Mike nods, as the two share a quiet look... until something off-screen catches Miriam's attention, scaring the hell out of her.

MIRIAM
Michaela!

Mike turns to see:


+WOLF 9

trotting happily up the porch steps toward them.


+MIRIAM 10

freezes in terror, but Mike just smiles.

MIKE
That's Wolf.

MIRIAM
I know it's a wolf! Get a gun!
(calling out)
Sully! Somebody help --

(CONTINUED)

11.


CONTINUED: 10

She suddenly stops short when Mike begins petting Wolf, scratching behind his ears. Mike looks up at Miriam, who just stands there, utterly stunned.

MIKE
It's all right...
(smiles)
He's on our side.

Miriam relaxes a bit... even manages a nervous smile... but still doesn't move.

MIRIAM
Michaela Quinn of Beacon Hill, out in the barren wilderness, scratching the ears of a wolf.

MIKE
As you said, things change.

The two women laugh at this as we:

DISSOLVE TO:


INT. GENERAL STORE - DAY TWO 11

Loren sits alone in the quiet store, reading the Denver paper. He grumbles at something he reads.

LOREN
... best interest of the territory. You lie about as well as you dress, you two-faced...
(looks up from paper)
Can you believe this fella calls himself a...

Loren stops short, suddenly remembering he's alone. He looks over, sees the empty space where Dorothy's desk used to be, then goes back to reading the paper in silence.

DOROTHY (O.S.)
Mornin', Loren.

Loren reacts with surprise, turns to see Dorothy entering the store. He stands and moves to her, visibly happy to see her.

LOREN
Dorothy.

DOROTHY
I need some oil, for my press. Lever's stuck.

Loren shakes his head as he steps over to fetch the oil.

(CONTINUED)

12.


CONTINUED: 11

LOREN
Can't say as I'm surprised to hear that, what with you buyin' the thing second hand an' all.

Dorothy glances over, notices something on one of the shelves.

DOROTHY
You're outta sugar.

LOREN
What's that?

DOROTHY
(gesturing to the shelf)
Sugar. You're out. Need to re-order.

Loren looks up at the shelf, sees she's right.

LOREN
Oh, yeah... well... been busy lately.

Loren sets the oil on the counter and begins searching for his order ledger.

LOREN
Where's my book?

DOROTHY
(pointing)
Top right drawer, Loren. Where it's always been.

Loren finds the ledger with a scowl as Colleen and BECKY enter.

COLLEEN
Mornin', Miss Dorothy. Mr. Bray.

DOROTHY
Mornin', Colleen. Becky. How's your ma gettin' on with her friend?

COLLEEN
They're havin' a wonderful time. They were up practic'ly all night talkin'.

DOROTHY
I hope they'll have time to do an interview for the Gazette.

(CONTINUED)

13.


CONTINUED: (2) 11

COLLEEN
I'm sure they will.

LOREN
What can I get you girls?

COLLEEN
We wanna make a special pie for Dr. [Tilson.

BECKY
So we're gonna need some flour and sugar].

LOREN
Sugar?

Dorothy starts out with a smile.

DOROTHY
Thanks for the oil, Loren.

Loren scowls.

LOREN
Good luck with that printin' press, Dorothy.
(under his breath)
Piece a junk is what it is...

Loren watches her go in silence, trying not to show how much he misses her. After a beat, he turns back to Colleen.

LOREN
Now, 'bout that sugar. I got some gum drops, you see, 'an you can scrape the sugar right off 'em. Give 'em to you for half price.

Off Colleen and Becky's puzzled reactions...


EXT. HOMESTEAD - DAY TWO 12

Sully comes over from the homestead to find Brian in the corral, saddling his horse. The wagon is parked in front of the house, hitched and ready to go.

BRIAN
I hitched the wagon for Ma and Dr. Tilson.

(CONTINUED)

13A.


CONTINUED: 12

SULLY
Thanks. They said for us to go on ahead. They'll be comin' into town later.

Sully prepares his horse for riding as well.

(CONTINUED)

14.


CONTINUED: (2) 12

BRIAN
They seem like real good friends, don't you think?

SULLY
Sure.

BRIAN
You ever have a best friend like Dr. Tilson when you were growin' up?

SULLY
My friend, Daniel, 'an me were pretty close.

BRIAN
The one you went to help out with the mine?

SULLY
Came out west together when we were young. Saved my life once.

BRIAN
He a lot like you?

SULLY
Some ways. Both liked it better out in the woods than the city. But we did our share 'a fightin', too.

BRIAN
'Bout what?

SULLY
He was always hopin' to strike it rich. Sometimes felt like he was competin' with me for jobs and things, tryin' to do me one better.

Brian climbs up on the saddle.

BRIAN
Kinda like Ma and Dr. Tilson.

Sully pauses, looks at Brian.

SULLY
How'd you grow up so fast?

The two exchange a smile, then Sully climbs on his horse.

(CONTINUED)

14A.


CONTINUED: (3) 12

BRIAN
Race ya to the schoolhouse.

(CONTINUED)

15.


CONTINUED: (4) 12

SULLY
You're on.

And off they go, riding toward town.


EXT. CLINIC - DAY TWO 13

Mike and Miriam walk down the street (from the store) toward the clinic.

MIRIAM
... and after examining him with the sphygmograph, I realized his blood pressure had increased --

MIKE
Sphygmograph?

MIRIAM
Yes. Have you heard of it?

MIKE
Of course. I've been trying to obtain one for months now, but it's been difficult.

MIRIAM
We have several at the hospital. I can send you one if you'd like. They're quite useful in...

Miriam suddenly stops short when she discovers:


+CLOUD DANCING 14

walking toward them holding a leather pouch. Mike sees the uneasiness on Miriam's face.

MIKE
Dr. Miriam Tilson, this is Cloud Dancing, a very dear friend.

Miriam recovers, tentatively extending her hand as she speaks slowly, emphasizing each word (assuming he doesn't speak English).

MIRIAM
I'm... pleased... to meet... you.

Cloud Dancing shakes her hand with a smile.

(CONTINUED)

16.


CONTINUED: 14

CLOUD DANCING
(same emphasis)
Thank... you... very... much.

Miriam reacts, realizing he speaks English, as Cloud Dancing hands Mike the pouch.

CLOUD DANCING
I have brought the herbs. Scarlet mallow, aspen bark. I will try to bring goldenseal on my next visit.

MIKE
Thank you, Cloud Dancing.

Mike takes out some money, holds it out to him.

CLOUD DANCING
No need.

MIKE
Please. You're doing me a great service. It's very difficult to find these herbs, let alone purchase them.

Cloud Dancing nods, takes the money.

CLOUD DANCING
(to Miriam)
Good... bye.

Miriam nods, a bit sheepish. Mike smiles as Cloud Dancing walks off.

MIRIAM
Wolves, Indians. I must say, Michaela, I'm impressed with how well you've adapted.

MIKE
I've learned a lot from that man. These herbs have medicinal properties I've found quite useful.

MIRIAM
Aspen bark? From a tree?

MIKE
It helps with coughs and fevers. I've not only administered it many times, I've also taken it as well.

(CONTINUED)

17.


CONTINUED: (2) 14

MIRIAM
Fascinating. I doubt I would be so courageous.

MIKE
You? The girl who volunteered to drink that concoction Professor Averton was promoting?

MIRIAM
I thought it would help my grade. And I vomited all night.

MIKE
But you had the courage to take it when no one else would.

Mike goes into the clinic, leaving Miriam to consider this, a quiet, thoughtful look blanketing her face.

MIRIAM
Yes, I did.

Miriam breaks her reverie and follows Mike inside.


INT. CLINIC - CONTINUOUS - DAY TWO 15

Miriam enters and pauses to survey the room.

MIRIAM
So this is your clinic.

There was nothing insulting in Miriam's tone, but Mike still feels the need to apologize.

MIKE
It's not much, I know, but I try to keep it clean.

MIRIAM
It's inspiring, Michaela. It has such a... rustic charm about it.

She wanders over to the examination table.

MIRIAM
And where do you perform surgeries?

MIKE
(embarrassed)
Right here.

MIRIAM
Here? Really?

(CONTINUED)

18.


CONTINUED: 15

MIKE
It's difficult, with all the dust from the street and the poor lighting, but... I don't have much of a choice. For now, anyway.

Miriam stares down at the table, then looks around the room one more time before turning back to Mike.

MIRIAM
(sincere)
You've done well, Michaela.

Mike looks at her -- Was that a dig, or a compliment? But in Miriam's eyes she sees only honesty... and envy. The moment is suddenly broken as:

COLLEEN (O.S.)
Ma?

Colleen is in the doorway with Becky, who is pale and holds her stomach. Mike hurries to her.

MIKE
Becky, what's wrong?

BECKY
My stomach hurts...

Mike guides Becky to the examination table, where she begins to examine the girl, feeling her forehead for fever. Miriam steps back, but watches intently.

COLLEEN
She threw up in school.

MIKE
(to Becky)
Is it sharp like knives, or dull, aching?

BECKY
Knives...

MIKE
Have you ever had these pains before?

Becky shakes her head 'no.' Mike presses the lower right side of her abdomen.

MIKE
Does it hurt here?

(CONTINUED)

19.


CONTINUED: (2) 15

Becky shakes her head again. Mike presses the middle of her abdomen.

MIKE
How about now?

Becky groans. Mike considers, then turns to Miriam.

MIKE
Intestinal blockage, perhaps?

Miriam steps over, a bit tentative, and feels Becky's forehead.

MIRIAM
Doesn't appear to be any fever.
(to Mike)
It might be gastroenteritis.

MIKE
Perhaps... but if there's blockage, we'll need --

MIRIAM
(to Becky)
Did you eat anything recently?

BECKY
Coupla hours ago... ate some 'a my ma's chicken.

MIRIAM
That would do it.
(to Mike)
Do you have any Dr. Gordon's Cordial?

Before Mike can answer:

COLLEEN
Yeah, I'll get it.

Colleen gets it and brings it over. Miriam quickly pours a spoonful of the medicine for Becky, who takes it.

MIRIAM
Now just lie back if you can. You should start feeling better right away.

Becky lies back. Miriam gently palpates her abdomen.

MIKE
Do you feel it?

Miriam continues to feel, concentrating hard. After a beat, she shakes her head.

(CONTINUED)

20.


CONTINUED: (3) 15

MIRIAM
I'm sure it's gastroenteritis, brought on by common food poisoning. It's often mis-diagnosed. We see a lot of this at the hospital.

MIKE
But if it isn't food poisoning, there's the risk of a rupture, peritonitis --

BECKY
It's startin' to go away...

MIRIAM
The pain?

MIKE
So quickly?

Becky nods. Miriam smiles.

MIRIAM
Good. You just lie still awhile longer, until you're back to normal.

BECKY
Am I gonna be all right?

MIRIAM
The worst is over.

Colleen turns to Miriam, impressed.

COLLEEN
Thank you, Miriam.

Miriam gives Colleen a nod and a smile as:


+MIKE 16

steps back, confused, feeling excluded from the group and filled with a growing self-doubt as we:

FADE OUT.

END ACT ONE




21.


ACT TWO


FADE IN:


INT. MIKE AND SULLY'S BEDROOM - NIGHT TWO 17

Mike sits in bed, intently poring over a medical journal. Sully enters, starts undressing for bed.

MIKE
What was it this time?

SULLY
Thought she saw a bear out the window.

MIKE
A bear?

SULLY
It was the laundry tub.
(smiles, kisses her)
Put up a fight, but I think I scared it off.

Mike smiles.

SULLY
She reminds me of you when you first came to town.

MIKE
I wasn't that out of place, was I?

Sully just smiles, kisses her again and continues undressing.

MIKE
(after a beat)
Back in school we were inseparable, relying on each other's talents. Miriam excelled in surgical techniques. Her suturing skills were amazing. She once stitched a large gash on my knee after a fall.

Sully sits on the bed and slides up her nightgown, examining her knee.

SULLY
Never seen a scar on your knee.

(CONTINUED)

22.


CONTINUED: 17

MIKE
Exactly.
(beat, quieting)
My forte was diagnosis. Observing symptoms and determining the illness. But today, with Becky...

Mike looks back down at her medical journal, replaying in her mind what's been troubling her all day.

MIKE
I could've sworn I felt blockage. And the pain... it subsided so quickly...
(beat)
But Miriam's seen hundreds of these cases in her hospital. Out here I only see a few.

SULLY
Don't make you any less of a doctor.

Mike nods quietly, although there's still doubt in her eyes.

MIKE
I'm sure her diagnosis was accurate.

From outside, an OWL HOOTS. Mike and Sully listen to it for a moment.

SULLY
Sounds like another bear.

As Mike and Sully laugh...


EXT. GRACE'S CAFE - DAY THREE 18

Mike sits with Miriam, sipping coffee at one of the tables.

MIRIAM
Have you seen Becky today?

MIKE
No, I haven't. But Colleen said she was in school. She's feeling fine.

Miriam seems relieved to hear this.

(CONTINUED)

23.


CONTINUED: 18

MIRIAM
Good... good.
(then)
Michaela, I'm sorry if I over-stepped my bounds yesterday.

MIKE
Nonsense, I was glad to have you there to consult.

Miriam smiles fondly.

MIRIAM
Side by side, just like the old days.

Mike returns the smile, as Dorothy passes by, carrying several papers and books and looking somewhat frustrated.

MIKE
Dorothy.

DOROTHY
Afternoon, Michaela.

MIKE
I'd like you to meet my friend, Dr. Miriam Tilson.
(to Miriam)
Dorothy Jennings.

DOROTHY
Pleased to meet you.

MIRIAM
The pleasure's mine.

MIKE
Will you join us?

DOROTHY
For a minute. I'm busy tryin' to get my new press up and runnin'.

MIKE
Dorothy's the editor of our town's newspaper, the Gazette.

MIRIAM
A woman editor. Impressive.

DOROTHY
Thank you. Would you like a copy of last week's edition?

(CONTINUED)

24.


CONTINUED: (2) 18

MIRIAM
(taking it)
Thank you.

DOROTHY
I was hopin' for an interview from you before you go back home.

MIRIAM
Certainly, I'd love to.

Miriam looks at the Gazette, turns it over. Then over again. Yes, it's only one sheet. Dorothy suddenly becomes self-conscious.

DOROTHY
I'm in the process of expandin'.

MIKE
(to Dorothy)
Up to eight pages, isn't that what you said?

DOROTHY
Uh... well, give or take...

MIKE
Dorothy's always on the lookout for a good story. Her journalistic skills are quite impressive --

GRACE, overhearing, leans in.

GRACE
She even got me to tell her the recipe to my secret pecan pie.

MIRIAM
Pie?

GRACE
Just wouldn't take no for an answer.

Miriam smiles, politely humoring Dorothy.

MIRIAM
Yes, well... a good journalist must be persistent.

GRACE
And know how to bargain. She traded for free advertisin'.

(CONTINUED)

25.


CONTINUED: (3) 18

MIRIAM
Very clever.

Dorothy, embarrassed, stands and gathers her things.

DOROTHY
Well... guess I better be goin'.

Dorothy starts off before Mike can say anything. Mike looks back at Miriam.

MIRIAM
Actually, a slice of pecan pie sounds wonderful right now.
(to Grace)
Do you have any?

GRACE
Comin' right up.

Miriam turns back to Mike, summing up her attitude toward the people of the town in one word:

MIRIAM
Charming.

On Mike, saying nothing, staring off after Dorothy.


EXT. HOMESTEAD - DAY THREE 19

A peaceful, idyllic afternoon. Miriam comes out of the house, looking a bit bored, and wanders down by the corral, where she pauses to look at the horses. After a moment, something nearby catches her eye, and she turns to discover:

Wolf, sitting not far away, watching her. Miriam instinctively tenses, but tries to look calm and friendly.

MIRIAM
Oh. You again. Good boy.

Wolf just continues to stare at her until Sully comes out of the barn and starts over, petting Wolf on the way.

SULLY
Where's Michaela?

MIRIAM
Taking a nap.

Sully nods -- this happens frequently.

SULLY
Gets tired easy these days.

(CONTINUED)

26.


CONTINUED: 19

MIRIAM
It won't be much longer.

Sully nods again, falling silent. Miriam, a bit uncomfortable, looks back at the horses. Sully notes this.

SULLY
You ever ride?

MIRIAM
What, horses?
(a tad sarcastic)
I'm afraid I've not had the pleasure.

Sully considers this... then smiles.

SULLY
C'mon.

And he starts into the corral. Miriam tenses.

MIRIAM
What?

SMASH CUT TO:


EXT. WOODS - DAY THREE 20

Miriam, on horseback, looks extremely uncomfortable as she rides alongside Sully, who seems to be enjoying this.

MIRIAM
I can't believe I'm riding a horse.

SULLY
Doin' good. Just ease up on the reins a bit.

MIRIAM
Where are we going?

SULLY
Nowhere. Just ridin'.

MIRIAM
Wonderful.

Miriam pauses a moment, looking at Sully. Something's on her mind.

MIRIAM
So tell me... How do you like being married to a woman doctor?

(CONTINUED)

27.


CONTINUED: 20

Sully smiles at this.

SULLY
No complaints.

MIRIAM
Between her practice and her home life and the children... how does she manage it?

SULLY
(shrugs, then)
Same as you.

Miriam nods, quieting. Sully sees something off to the side and gestures for her to stop. Miriam tugs on the reins, stopping her horse.

MIRIAM
What is it?

Sully points, and Miriam looks to see:


+HER POV - A MEADOW (STOCK) 21

and right in the middle of it is a DEER with a young FAWN grazing at its side.


+BACK TO MIRIAM 22

watching, mesmerized by the sight... and thrilled by it.

MIRIAM
They're so close...

SULLY
Come out here every afternoon to feed.

Miriam turns to Sully, realizing:

MIRIAM
You brought me out here to see this.

Sully nods, looks back at the deer... but Miriam's eyes don't leave Sully. She watches him for a long moment, feeling very envious of her friend.


INT. GAZETTE - DAY THREE 23

Loren enters, but doesn't see Dorothy anywhere... just hears a lot of NOISE and BANGING coming from behind the printing press.

(CONTINUED)

28.


CONTINUED: 23

LOREN
Dorothy?

The BANGING stops, and Dorothy's head rises from behind the press. She looks completely disheveled, her face, hands and clothes smeared with black ink. Her frustration is visible -- a woman nearing the end of her rope.

DOROTHY
Hello, Loren.

LOREN
I was wonderin' if you'd care to join me at Grace's for supper.

DOROTHY
Oh, uh... no thanks. I'm not exactly... presentable.

Loren comes over, looking at the press.

LOREN
Still givin' you trouble, is it?

DOROTHY
No, I'm gettin' it. All I need is to fix this one last...

But she stops short. She can't deny it any longer, plopping down in a chair with a sigh.

DOROTHY
Oh, what's the use. Thing's too complicated, nothin' seems to work. My old press never gave me such problems.
(looking around)
And this room... it takes up so much space, I can hardly get around.

She stares at the press, clearly intimidated by it. Loren puts a reassuring hand on her shoulder, softening his voice.

LOREN
If you want, I can take it off your hands. I'm sure I can find a buyer for it.

The offer is tempting, and Dorothy considers it for a long moment.

DOROTHY
(quietly)
I'll let you know.

(CONTINUED)

29.


CONTINUED: (2) 23

Loren nods, then turns to go out, leaving Dorothy alone, staring at the press with a troubled look.


INT. HOMESTEAD - NIGHT THREE 24

Mike carries a pot of tea over to the fireplace, where Colleen and Brian are talking with Miriam. Mike refills Miriam's teacup. Sully's nearby with a book in his hands, but he can't help listening in on the conversation.

MIRIAM
I studied hard, day and night. We were poor, but my father was forever the optimist. He would tell me, "The only reason you can't do something is because you don't think you can."

Brian reacts -- 'What?' But Colleen is encouraged.

COLLEEN
How'd you get into medical college if you couldn't afford it?

MIRIAM
By studying hard and earning a scholarship from the Catholic church. Most of the women at the college came from wealthy families. They all looked down upon us women of "questionable stature"...
(smiles at Mike)
... All that is, except for Michaela.

If this was meant as a compliment, Mike doesn't take it as one. She just smiles back, saying nothing.

BRIAN
(to Miriam)
And now you're senior surgeon at a big hospital.

MIRIAM
Children's medicine, mind you.

Colleen turns to Mike, eager to brag about Miriam's achievements.

(CONTINUED)

30.


CONTINUED: 24

COLLEEN
Ma, did you know Miriam's got a whole team of interns that follow her around on... what's it called?

MIRIAM
Grand rounds. But I'm not exactly the center of attention, Colleen. I defer to the Chief of surgery.

MIKE
A considerable achievement, nonetheless.

BRIAN
I'll bet if you wanted a... a lemonade while you were operatin', there'd be a nurse right there handin' it to you.

MIRIAM
(smiles)
It's been known to happen.

COLLEEN
And Ma, they got five operatin' theaters. Five!

MIKE
A big city needs a big hospital.

COLLEEN
Wouldn't it be wonderful to go there, see what it looks like?

Mike hesitates a moment, casting a quick glance at Sully before turning back to Colleen.

MIKE
Well, perhaps someday --

COLLEEN
(quickly)
What about this summer? I mean, if it were all right with Miriam, I could go to San Francisco and visit. I could stay with Pa and Lillian.

Colleen turns to Miriam, who suddenly looks uneasy. She tries to form a response, but before she can speak:

(CONTINUED)

31.


CONTINUED: (2) 24

MIKE
It's quite a distance to travel, Colleen.

COLLEEN
You could go with me.

MIKE
I don't think so. With the baby coming, I doubt I'll be traveling anywhere.

A look of relief crosses Miriam's face when she realizes Mike's resistance.

COLLEEN
Then I'll go alone. I'm old enough. And with the train, it'll only take a coupla days.

MIKE
I just don't think now's a good time.

COLLEEN
Ma, please --

SULLY
(end of discussion)
Colleen.

Sully's voice quiets Colleen. Miriam looks at her, giving her a gentle smile.

MIRIAM
I guess it'll have to be some other time.

Colleen nods, hurt, then stands and goes out. Miriam looks at Mike, who turns away, unable to meet her gaze.


INT. MIKE AND SULLY'S BEDROOM - NIGHT THREE 25

Mike stands at the window, staring out at the night sky, deep in troubled thought. Behind her, Sully stokes the fire before getting ready for bed.

MIKE
Miriam and I used to lie out on the grass and look up at the stars, making our dreams for the future...
(beat, turns to him)
Was I wrong, Sully? Should we let Colleen go to San Francisco?

(CONTINUED)

32.


CONTINUED: 25

SULLY
Don't see no harm in it.

MIKE
It's just that it's so far away. Such a big city.

SULLY
She's seen big cities before.

MIKE
But Miriam's hospital... From what she's described, it's quite overwhelming. A far cry from what I have here in Colorado Springs.

SULLY
Might do Colleen some good to see somethin' like that.

MIKE
Yes... I want her to be exposed to new medical advances...

SULLY
Then what's the problem?

Mike pauses a moment, thinking about this.

MIKE
I'm just... afraid, I suppose...

SULLY
Of what?

Mike turns back to the window, the answer troubling her.

MIKE
That she might not want to come back.

Sully steps over to her, wraps his arms around her, offering comfort. Mike rests her head on his shoulder, trying to quell her torn emotions as she continues to stare out the window at the night sky.

FADE OUT.

END ACT TWO




33.


ACT THREE


FADE IN:


INT. CLINIC - DAY FOUR 26

Robert E lies face down, fully clothed, grimacing as Mike presses on his lower back. Miriam watches from nearby.

MIKE
Here?

ROBERT E
There.

MIKE
Bad?

ROBERT E
Very bad.

Mike helps him (with difficulty and a great deal of pain) to a sitting position.

MIKE
It appears you've strained it.

ROBERT E
Movin' Dorothy's printin' press. So much for a good deed.

MIKE
Take a nice hot bath and get to bed for a few days. You need to rest.

ROBERT E
Yes, I do. Thanks, Dr. Mike.

And out he goes, gingerly favoring his back. Mike watches him go, then takes a deep breath, sitting at her desk.

MIKE
I could use a rest myself. The baby's really kicking.

MIRIAM
I'll bet it's a boy. You're carrying the way I did when I had Robert Jr.

Mike smiles up at her friend, envious.

MIKE
How do you do it?

(CONTINUED)

34.


CONTINUED: 26

MIRIAM
Do what?

Mike touches her stomach thoughtfully.

MIKE
Adopting three children wasn't difficult. Matthew was almost of age, and Colleen was quite helpful with Brian. But now, with the baby coming, I'm just... how did you manage when your children were born?

MIRIAM
One word -- nannies.

Mike smiles at this, then grows serious again.

MIKE
I often lie awake at night, wondering if I'll have enough time for my practice and my baby... what kind of mother I'll be...

MIRIAM
Still the same old Michaela. Always placing such enormous pressure on yourself.

Miriam sits beside her, putting a reassuring hand on Mike's hand.

MIRIAM
You're a fine mother, Michaela.
(touching Mike's stomach)
This is one very lucky baby.

MIKE
(after a beat)
I've been thinking. If you'd like Colleen to come to San Francisco, I think it would benefit her.

Miriam suddenly becomes uncomfortable.

MIRIAM
Yes... I'd love to have her. I'll let you know when my schedule eases.

(CONTINUED)

35.


CONTINUED: (2) 26

MIKE
(nods, then)
She thinks the world of you. And so do I.

This rocks Miriam, visibly affecting her. She smiles at Mike, but in her eyes there is pain and hurt... and a secret she can't bring herself to reveal...


INT. GAZETTE - DAY FOUR 27

Dorothy finally has the printing press working. She turns the levers, printing her first sheet of paper, which she then takes out and holds up to discover --

Nothing. It's blank. Angry and frustrated, she crumples the paper and hurls it aside, where it rolls out the door...


EXT. GAZETTE - CONTINUOUS - DAY FOUR 28

... and directly into the path of Colleen, who is passing by on her way to the clinic (from school). She stops, noting the crumpled ball of paper with an odd look, then peers inside the door.


INT. GAZETTE - CONTINUOUS - DAY FOUR 29

Colleen sees Dorothy now sitting in a chair, ready to give up.

COLLEEN
You all right, Miss Dorothy?

Dorothy startles, looks over at Colleen.

DOROTHY
Oh... hello Colleen. You don't happen to know anybody lookin' to buy a printin' press, do you?

COLLEEN
You don't want it anymore?

DOROTHY
I don't know what I was thinkin'. Shoulda just stayed put with my old press in the corner of Loren's store.

COLLEEN
You can't give up, Miss Dorothy. Not after you come this far.

(CONTINUED)

36.


CONTINUED: 29

DOROTHY
A little too far, I'm afraid. Bit off more than I can chew.

Dorothy stares at the press, speaking softly, almost to herself... &