Christmas Day at Kirkby Cottage

Summary

Podcast Episode Summary

Podcast: Harold's Old Time Radio
Episode: Christmas Day at Kirkby Cottage
Air Date: December 14, 2025

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Episode Overview

In this heartwarming dramatization of Anthony Trollope's tale, "Christmas Day at Kirkby Cottage," listeners are invited into a gentle, festive story from the Golden Age of Radio. The episode unfolds in a rural English vicarage, centering on themes of family, love, custom, and the bittersweet anxieties around the coming-of-age of children—particularly the romance developing between the independent Morris Archer and the reserved Isabel (Bella) Lane. It's a cozy, atmospheric glimpse into old-fashioned Christmas celebrations laced with misunderstandings, sibling affection, and ultimately, the triumph of openness and goodwill.

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Key Discussion Points & Plot Progression

1. The Family's Christmas Preparations and Concerns

• Alice and John Lane discuss inviting Morris Archer, son of John’s late friend, for Christmas. Alice is wary because he's opinionated and because of the potential for romance between him and Bella (00:39–02:22).
  • Notable quote:

    “No, John, I don't believe I am.” – Alice Lane, on not being ready for Bella to fall in love (02:18).

• The prospect of chaperoning and the subtleties of young people’s hearts are highlighted.

2. Sibling Conversations About Growing Up and Relationships

• Mabel (younger sister) and Bella share a candid discussion about Bella’s coldness to Morris, illustrating the gap between childhood innocence and adult reservation (03:21–03:55).

3. Morris and Bella's First Tensions

• Bella invites Morris to join village holiday traditions, only for Morris to dismiss Christmas as "a bore" (04:12–05:39).
  • Notable exchange:

    “Christmas a bore, Mr. Archer. The season of our saviour's birth, a bore.” – Bella (Isabel) Lane (05:11)
    “All I meant was…a great deal of beef is roasted. …And people try to be jolly by eating too much…” – Morris Archer (05:27)

• Bella is hurt by his cynicism, equating his comment with a lack of Christmas spirit.

4. Christmas Eve Traditions and Gentle Social Drama

• The family, including Morris, decorates the church for Christmas.
• Bella rebuffs Morris's attempts at conversation and help; Mabel sweetens the mood with her childlike warmth (07:06–08:54).
• In the church, tension peaks—Bella chides Morris for belittling Christmas, and feelings burst:
  • Notable quote:

    “I don't mean to be uncivil, but…” – Bella (11:03)
    “You are very uncivil.” – Morris (11:34)

5. A Dramatic Moment & Subtle Shift

• During church decorating, Bella nearly falls, and Morris catches her, creating a moment of physical and emotional closeness (13:02–13:47).

6. Christmas Morning Realizations

• Both Bella and Morris are subdued, each dwelling on the prior day's awkwardness (16:48–18:14).
  • Notable quote:

    “That depends on you.” – Morris, on whether Christmas will be happy (18:14)

7. The Confession and Rejection

• Morris proposes marriage to Bella in an earnest but awkward early morning scene (18:28–19:51).
  • Notable exchange:

    “Miss Lownd, I wonder if you could love me.” – Morris (18:28)
    “Mr. Archer, don’t. Please don’t ask me. …It can never be.” – Bella (19:51, 19:58)

• The proposal is abruptly rejected by Bella, though she's clearly conflicted.

8. Morris Plans to Leave—Counsel from Mr. Lane

• Morris tells Mr. Lane he must leave, probably for Africa, after Bella’s rejection (21:01–22:47).
  • Notable quote:

    “She just told me plainly that it could never be and then walked out of the room.” – Morris (22:33)

9. Private Regrets and Maternal Reassurance

• Bella confides in her mother and Mabel, regretting her words though her heart feels differently (25:25–28:20).
  • Notable quote:

    “Why did I say it?...And yet my heart was full of love.” – Bella (25:42)

  • Alice counsels patience:

    “If this man's love is worth having, he will ask you again.” – Alice Lane (25:25)

10. Acts of Kindness: Morris’s Compassion

• At Miss Dimbleby’s lonely cottage, Bella and Mabel learn Morris sent her flowers and a fine roast of beef for Christmas—showing his generous spirit despite his personal sadness (28:32–29:54).

11. Mabel's Subtle Encouragement & Reunion

• Mabel cleverly gifts Morris a bookmark inscribed “If at first you don’t succeed…”—prompting him to “try again” romantically with Bella (31:31–31:48).
• Morris seeks out Bella, who admits her true feelings, and the couple finally come together happily (32:24–33:08).
  • Notable exchange:

    “If we are to be married, you must promise me one thing: you will never again say that cross Christmas is a boar.” – Bella (33:03)
    “Oh, I promise.” – Morris (33:08)

12. Warm Closing and Cast Credits

• The episode closes with a cast roll and gentle affirmation of the classic, heartwarming tale.

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Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• “All young men are opinionated. Especially when they've just left university.” – John Lane (00:56)
• “Christmas to me is…a very Special time indeed. Little children singing carols. …A season of goodwill and peace on earth.” – Bella (05:39)
• “Even a big house can be cold and gloomy when you've no one to share it with.” – Morris Archer (08:12)
• “You are very uncivil.” – Morris, after Bella’s sharp honesty (11:34)
• “That depends on you.” – Morris, to Bella on what will make Christmas happy (18:14)
• “Miss Lownd, I wonder if you could love me.” – Morris’s proposal (18:28)
• “If at first you don't succeed…” “…Try, try again.” – The bookmark (31:41–31:48)
• “If we are to be married…never again say that Christmas is a boar.” – Bella (33:03)

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Timestamps for Important Segments

• 00:39 – 02:22: Alice and John discuss inviting Morris, parental anxieties
• 04:12 – 05:39: Bella invites Morris to church; he disparages Christmas
• 11:03 – 12:32: Confession about Christmas and mutual offense
• 13:02 – 13:47: Morris catches Bella during church decorating
• 16:48 – 18:14: Christmas morning, Bella recovers, both subdued
• 18:28 – 19:51: Morris’s marriage proposal, Bella refuses
• 21:01 – 22:47: Morris tells John Lane he plans to leave
• 25:25 – 28:20: Bella’s regret, Alice’s comforting advice
• 28:32 – 29:54: Visit to Miss Dimbleby—Morris’s kindness
• 31:31 – 31:48: Mabel’s bookmark and encouragement
• 32:24 – 33:08: Morris and Bella reconcile, promise for a happy future

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Episode Tone

The tone is gentle, witty, warm, and slightly nostalgic—capturing both the awkwardness and sweetness of restrained love and old-fashioned family bonds. The language is classically British, formal yet heartfelt, with lively exchanges and period humor.

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In Summary

"Christmas Day at Kirkby Cottage" embraces the spirit of familial love and forgiveness, the revival of the holiday spirit through acts of kindness, and the promise of new beginnings. Misunderstandings, youthful pride, and societal manners threaten to prevent happiness, but ultimately, honest feeling and gentle encouragement prevail—delivering a story as cozy and charming as a fireside Christmas.

Transcript

[Narrator/Advertiser]

Hey, this is Sarah. Look, I'm standing out front of a.m. p.m. Right now and well, you're sweet and all, but I found something more fulfilling, even kind of cheesy. But I like it. Sure, you met some of my dietary needs, but they've just got it all. So farewell, oatmeal. So long, you strange soggy.

[John Lane]

Break up with bland breakfasts and taste AM PM's bacon, egg and cheese biscuit made with ktree eggs, smoked bacon and melty cheese on a buttery biscuit. AM PM Too much. Good stuff.

[Alice Lane]

Invite him here for Christmas. I was so looking forward to a quiet and peaceful Christmas this year.

[John Lane]

How would Morris Archer stop Christmas from being quiet and peaceful?

[Alice Lane]

You know perfectly well what I mean, John. He's such an opinionated young man, for one thing.

[John Lane]

Oh, my dear Alice, all young men are opinionated. Especially when they've just left university.

[Alice Lane]

Nevertheless, people say he is very self willed. Surely it is dangerous for a young man to have no father or mother to guide and advise him.

[John Lane]

Indeed it is, Alice. That is precisely my point. His father was my dearest friend and so I feel a duty to the lad. After all, I'm his godfather. Don't you think if Morris came to stay with us for Christmas that perhaps we could help to guide and advise him?

[Alice Lane]

I doubt he would listen to us. And then of course there's the problem of Isabel.

[John Lane]

Isabel? Oh, but how could our dear little Bella be a problem?

[Alice Lane]

It seems to have escaped your notice, John, but our dear little Bella is now 20 years of age and a very beautiful young lady.

[John Lane]

I tend to agree. Mercifully she takes after you.

[Alice Lane]

Oh, and if a young man were to be brought into the house, well, they. He might fall in love.

[John Lane]

Oh. Oh, so that is what's worrying him.

[Alice Lane]

People might think that he'd been invited here on purpose. And Bella isn't ready to fall in love.

[John Lane]

Alice, my dear wife. Perhaps you mean that you aren't ready for her to fall in love?

[Alice Lane]

No, John, I don't believe I am.

[John Lane]

No more am I. No more am I.

[Alice Lane]

But you have a man staying with us in the house for Christmas who would be their chaperone.

[John Lane]

Alice, my dear, one or other of us is always here. And of course there's Mabel as well.

[Alice Lane]

But Mabel's only a little girl.

[John Lane]

What is the very worst that can happen? Alice, say that he falls in love with Bella and she doesn't feel the same for him. He must run his chance like other young men. He goes away dejected and she is left with a pleasant memory Someone fell in love with her.

[Alice Lane]

But what if Bella falls in love with him?

[John Lane]

You know our daughter Bella would never give her heart to any man before it had been asked.

[Mabel Lane]

Bell.

[Isabel (Bella) Lane]

Yes, Mabel?

[Mabel Lane]

Can I ask you something?

[Isabel (Bella) Lane]

Of course you can.

[Mabel Lane]

Don't you like Morris?

[Isabel (Bella) Lane]

Why do you ask me that?

[Mabel Lane]

You're not very jolly with him.

[Isabel (Bella) Lane]

It wouldn't be seemly for me to be jolly with Mr. Archer. A guest in our house and the son of a dear friend of Father's.

[Mabel Lane]

But he's fun as well. And he's been here for two days now. And we have such larks. But you never join in.

[Isabel (Bella) Lane]

If I were your age, Mabel, then of course I could join in with larks and frolics. But I am 20 now and must behave sedately when in company.

[Mabel Lane]

I wish you'd be a bit friendlier to him.

[Isabel (Bella) Lane]

Well, I certainly don't wish to seem unfriendly. Mr. Archer.

[Morris Archer]

Ms. Land.

[Isabel (Bella) Lane]

Oh, please don't get up. I didn't mean to disturb you.

[Morris Archer]

Not at all. I'm only reading till it's time for tea. This is such a peaceful room with all your father's books.

[Isabel (Bella) Lane]

I'm just fetching the string and some ribbons. Mabel and I are going over to the church after tea to put up the holly in the ivy for tomorrow's service. It's a family tradition of ours. On Christmas Eve, my sister wondered if you might care to join us. Tell Maurice I want him to come. She said he'll do anything I ask him.

[Morris Archer]

Well, that's quite outrageous. And of course, it's perfectly true. I'm devoted to dear little Mabel, and indeed to her elder sister.

[Isabel (Bella) Lane]

Oh, but I told Mabel that I didn't think you cared for such things as are quaint little village customs. And holly and ivy and roast beef and so forth.

[Morris Archer]

Well, to be absolutely candid, I do think it can be rather a bore.

[Isabel (Bella) Lane]

What can?

[Morris Archer]

Christmas and everything.

[Isabel (Bella) Lane]

Christmas a bore, Mr. Archer. The season of our saviour's birth, a bore.

[Morris Archer]

I'm sure you know what I mean, Miss Lamb.

[Isabel (Bella) Lane]

I don't believe I do, Mr. Archer. I am very sorry indeed that you should think such a thing. And sorrier still to hear you say it. No, no.

[Morris Archer]

All I meant was a great deal of beef is roasted. After all, you did mention the beef, Miss Lound. And a great deal of Christmas pudding is boiled. And people try to be jolly by eating too much of everything. And that's why Christmas can be a bore.

[Isabel (Bella) Lane]

No, Mr. Archer, no. Christmas to me is a time of. Well, a very Special time indeed. Little children singing carols. A season of goodwill and peace on earth. And but to hear you speak so of plum pudding and roast beef. As if that is all that Christmas means and to call it a bore in a vicarage library. But, of course, we all have our different opinions and interests. So pray, continue reading your novel. And I shan't disturb you any more with talk of Christmas as it bores you so.

[Morris Archer]

Please, Miss Loud, I truly meant no offense.

[Isabel (Bella) Lane]

None taken, Mr. Archer, I assure you. Perhaps you will at least care to join us for afternoon tea. Or do you find that a bore also?

[Morris Archer]

I would be delighted to join you, Miss Loud.

[Mabel Lane]

Well, is Morris coming to the church with us to do the Holly and the Ivy?

[Isabel (Bella) Lane]

I really can't say what Mr. Archer will choose to do. Mabel, help me put the tea things out, will you?

[Mabel Lane]

Didn't you ask him, Bella?

[Isabel (Bella) Lane]

Yes.

[Mabel Lane]

Well, what did he say?

[Isabel (Bella) Lane]

I don't wish to repeat it.

[Mabel Lane]

Why ever not? He wasn't rude to you, was he? I'm sure he didn't mean to be. Even if he was, he's ever so nice. But sometimes he makes little jokes. And you always think he's being serious. But there's always that little twinkle in his eye.

[Isabel (Bella) Lane]

Hush now, Mabel. He'll be here directly.

[Mabel Lane]

What about Mama and Papa? Aren't they having tea with us?

[Isabel (Bella) Lane]

They've gone to see Miss Dimbleby in the village. They've taken her the cake we made. I do feel sorry for her. All alone at this time of year.

[Morris Archer]

Mabel. Miss Lound. Pray tell me, who is all alone at this time of year? Forgive me, but I couldn't help overhearing you.

[Isabel (Bella) Lane]

Miss Dimbleby.

[Mabel Lane]

She's very poor and old and lives in the tumbledown cottage and has no relations.

[Morris Archer]

Then I must send flowers to Miss Dimbleby.

[Mabel Lane]

Why?

[Morris Archer]

Because I, too, have no relations. And I, too, would be all alone at this time of year if your family hadn't taken pity on me. Then I'd be out there in the worst of the blizzard. A lonely, pathetic figure against the barren white landscape.

[Isabel (Bella) Lane]

Yes, very pathetic, I'm sure.

[Morris Archer]

Thank you, Miss Lownde, for your sympathy. A little milk? Thank you.

[John Lane]

No sugar.

[Mabel Lane]

Don't be silly, Morris. If you weren't here, you'd be snug and toastly warm in your own house.

[Morris Archer]

What? My cold and gloomy old place out on the Bleakmoor?

[Mabel Lane]

Handlewick hall is a beautiful, big manor house.

[Morris Archer]

Even a big house can be cold and gloomy when you've no one to share it with.

[Mabel Lane]

Well, it won't be gloomy on Boxing Day. You're going to share it with us, Mabel. We're all going to drive over in the carriage and visit you because you invited us, didn't you?

[Morris Archer]

Did I really do such a foolhardy thing as that?

[Mabel Lane]

You know perfectly well you did. And we're looking forward to it extremely. And it's only three miles away the day after Christmas. I can't wait.

[Morris Archer]

Well you'll have to wait, you bothersome imp. And besides, there's plenty to think about till then. All the presents you're going to get tomorrow.

[Mabel Lane]

Yes, and I'm longing to give you the present I made you. And decorating the church tonight with the holly and the ivy. You will come with us, won't you Morris, for Christmas Eve?

[Morris Archer]

I suppose I shall have to, for apparently I do whatever you ask me. See the power you hold over me, Wretched child.

[Mabel Lane]

Who told you I said that? Bella? You didn't tell Morris, did you?

[Morris Archer]

Well, as if your sister would tell me a thing like that. I have my methods, Mabel, like Sherlock Holmes, and my ears are everywhere. So be careful what you say about me. I have my reputation to consider.

[Mabel Lane]

So here you are at last.

[Morris Archer]

At last. Heavens above. I've only been five minutes. Is that all the thanks I get for trudging out here to help you in the bitter cold, ungrateful infant.

[Mabel Lane]

Oh, I better open the door for you, Bella. Morris has come to help us. I knew he would. I'll see you presently.

[Isabel (Bella) Lane]

Ah, I'm sure we're very much obliged to you, Mr. Archer.

[Morris Archer]

Where would you like me to put the ivy, Ms. Lal?

[Isabel (Bella) Lane]

Mabel is in charge of the ivy. I'm sure she will be pleased to direct you when she returns from the farm.

[Morris Archer]

Of course. But can I be of any assistance to you?

[Isabel (Bella) Lane]

Thank you, but I'm perfectly happy by myself. Besides, you appear to have your hands full.

[Morris Archer]

Then I'll leave you alone if you wish. Very well. But I do think you're a little hard on me.

[Isabel (Bella) Lane]

In what way, Mr. Archer?

[Morris Archer]

I've come here especially to help you. And now you decline my help.

[Isabel (Bella) Lane]

You came at Mabel's request, not at mine. When I asked you you told me it was all a ball. Indeed, you said much worse than that. I certainly did not mean to ask you again.

[Morris Archer]

Won't you allow me to explain, Ms. Lound? I was speaking of the holiday part of Christmas and all the pudding and the beef. But you answered as if I had spoken slightingly of the religious feeling which belongs to the day. And that was not my Intention at all, you said.

[Isabel (Bella) Lane]

The whole thing was. Well, you know what you said. And why should you regard pudding or beef as a bore when it is lovingly and carefully prepared as part of the season's celebration and a sign that there shall be plenty on that day for people who may not have plenty on any other day of the year.

[Morris Archer]

Ms. Lamb.

[Isabel (Bella) Lane]

Mr. Archer. Your intention was clear. That you don't like it because something which gives enjoyment to simple people and country bumpkins is tedious to you. And I don't like you for saying it's a bore. There, that's the truth. I don't mean to be uncivil, but.

[Morris Archer]

You are very uncivil.

[Mabel Lane]

What am I to say but the.

[Isabel (Bella) Lane]

Truth when you come and ask me?

[Morris Archer]

Well, I suppose I must thank you for speaking the truth, Miss Lounge. Of course. It's the commonest thing in the world that one person should dislike another. I can perfectly understand that you would dislike me. And I have no reason to protest against such a state of affairs. You have a perfect right to dislike me just as much as anyone else. I suppose it is just rather unexpected when one person tells another such a thing to his face. Even more so, perhaps, when that person is a guest in their home. However, perhaps the truth is best after all.

[Isabel (Bella) Lane]

Mr. Archer, I did not mean to be uncivil.

[Morris Archer]

But you did mean to tell the truth.

[Isabel (Bella) Lane]

I meant to say what I felt about Christmas Day. I did not mean to say that I dislike you, but rather that I didn't care for something you said. If I have offended you, Morris.

[Morris Archer]

I beg your pardon, Ms. Land. Isabel.

[Isabel (Bella) Lane]

Here is Mabel.

[Mabel Lane]

Goodness me. You haven't done anything while I've been gone. Come on, Morris. Help me with this ivy, or we won't have the church ready till Easter, much less Christmas.

[Morris Archer]

Miss Loud, that looks a rather precarious position for a young lady being somewhat taller. Perhaps I could take over with decorating the pulpit.

[Isabel (Bella) Lane]

I can manage. Thank you, Mr. Archer.

[Morris Archer]

Of course. But may I advise you not to step backwards onto the lectern? It doesn't appear to be very securely attached to the pulpit. And I fear it may not bear.

[Advertiser/Announcer]

Your.

[Morris Archer]

Wait, as it were.

[Mabel Lane]

You caught her. Well done, Maurice.

[Isabel (Bella) Lane]

Mr. Archer.

[Morris Archer]

Miss Loud.

[Mabel Lane]

You saved her life.

[Isabel (Bella) Lane]

Yes, I. I must thank you for breaking my fall.

[Morris Archer]

It was my privilege.

[Isabel (Bella) Lane]

Perhaps you will now put me down again?

[John Lane]

Of course.

[Morris Archer]

Forgive me. Are you quite well?

[Isabel (Bella) Lane]

I find I have a slight headache.

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[Isabel (Bella) Lane]

I feel I must lie down. Will you excuse us, Mr. Archer?

[Morris Archer]

But mayn't I escort you home in case you feel unwell?

[Isabel (Bella) Lane]

Thank you, but no. My sister will help me.

[Morris Archer]

Very well then. I will finish putting up the holly and I'll mend the lectern as well. After all, tomorrow's Christmas day. And what a merry Christmas it's turning out to be.

[Isabel (Bella) Lane]

Mabel.

[Advertiser/Announcer]

Mabel.

[Isabel (Bella) Lane]

Merry Christmas, Mabel.

[Mabel Lane]

Bella. Is it Christmas morning already?

[Isabel (Bella) Lane]

Yes, it is. God bless you, my dear sister.

[Mabel Lane]

You feeling better this morning?

[Isabel (Bella) Lane]

Oh yes, thank you. There is nothing so good for a headache as an early night. I slept very well. I really can't think what made me so tired and sad yesterday.

[Mabel Lane]

The prickles on the holly.

[Isabel (Bella) Lane]

It certainly was very prickly.

[Mabel Lane]

And something Morris said.

[Isabel (Bella) Lane]

Morris, I'm sure it was nothing to do with Mr. Archer.

[Mabel Lane]

He seemed very tired and sad as well.

[Isabel (Bella) Lane]

Did he? Perhaps he's not used to putting up decorations. It's quite hard work in some ways. And the church is so drafty.

[Alice Lane]

Oh, dear.

[Isabel (Bella) Lane]

Is he ill, do you think?

[Mabel Lane]

I don't know. He went to bed early as well. Perhaps he'll feel better again, like you do for Christmas Day.

[Isabel (Bella) Lane]

I hope so. Well, it's still very early. I'll go down and get everything ready for breakfast while the house is still asleep. Mr. Archer.

[Morris Archer]

Ms. Land.

[Isabel (Bella) Lane]

This is a wonder to find you up before the rest of the house. It means a long Christmas Day for you. But I sincerely hope it will be a happy one.

[Morris Archer]

That depends on you.

[Isabel (Bella) Lane]

I'll do everything I can. You shall only have a very little bit of roast beef and the poor unfortunate pudding won't even be brought near you. Is anything wrong?

[Morris Archer]

The thing is, I have something to say. But some things, when one comes to say them, seem very difficult to say. Miss Lownd, I wonder if you could love me.

[Isabel (Bella) Lane]

What?

[Morris Archer]

I would be so glad if. If you could love me and be my wife. I don't know how to tell you, but I love you better than anything. And everything better than all the world put together. I've done so from the very first moment I saw you. I have. Truly. And every word you have spoken to me since and every look of your dear eyes has only made me love you more and more. If I offended you yesterday, I beg your pardon now.

[Isabel (Bella) Lane]

Oh, dear.

[Morris Archer]

I wish I'd bitten my tongue out before I said what I did about Christmas. I do, indeed. I only meant it in a half joking way to. Well, anyhow, I should have known that you wouldn't like it and. I beg your pardon. Tell me, Isabelle, do you think you could love me?

[Isabel (Bella) Lane]

Mr. Archer?

[Morris Archer]

Well, may I hope at least, dear Isabel, that someday you may love me?

[Isabel (Bella) Lane]

Mr. Archer, don't. Please don't ask me.

[Morris Archer]

Why should I not ask you?

[Mabel Lane]

It can never be.

[Narrator/Advertiser]

Never? Never.

[Morris Archer]

Are you quite, quite sure? Well, I did think that perhaps you liked me a little before what I said in the library. Perhaps you're still angry with me about that.

[Isabel (Bella) Lane]

No, no, not angry.

[Morris Archer]

Then why should you say never?

[Isabel (Bella) Lane]

Excuse me, Mr. Archer.

[Morris Archer]

Of course, Ms. Loud.

[John Lane]

Morris. Good morning. And a very happy Christmas to you. Oh, and thank you again for your heroic rescue. Catching Isabel as she fell off the pulpit. Such adventures in sleepy old Kirby Cliff. You're often about early.

[Morris Archer]

I had something very particular to do. Ah, yes.

[John Lane]

Christmas Day. Lots of secret errands wonderful season of the year.

[Morris Archer]

I don't know about wonderful.

[John Lane]

Oh, dear. Something the matter, old chap?

[Morris Archer]

Yes, sir. I'm afraid so. You are all most welcome to go over to Handlewick hall tomorrow as arranged, but I'm afraid I won't be there.

[John Lane]

My dear fellow, you've been called away. Some emergency. And at Christmas time. What a shame.

[Morris Archer]

Where will you be? I'm not sure. Africa, probably. Africa? Well, yes, on the way there at least. It probably takes quite a long time to get there. It's as good a place as any other. Africa's wild and a long way off and all that kind of thing.

[John Lane]

Morris, I was your father's dearest friend. And I'm your godfather, too. Won't you tell me what this is all about?

[Morris Archer]

Forgive me, Mr. Lane. I should have come to you first if it hadn't been for an accident.

[John Lane]

Another accident?

[Morris Archer]

What? Not like yesterday, was it? Only yesterday? It seems like another lifetime. You see, I came down early this morning and found your daughter here. And I asked her to be my wife. I know I should have asked your leave, sir, but as it happens, she refused me point blank.

[John Lane]

Well, you must have startled her, Morris. You've startled me at any rate.

[Morris Archer]

I don't think that was the problem, sir. She didn't seem startled in the least. She took it all very calmly. She just told me plainly that it could never be and then walked out of the room.

[John Lane]

Mmm. Perhaps she wasn't expecting it, Morris.

[Morris Archer]

Expecting it? I'm sure she wasn't. It's quite clear that she hadn't thought about me any more than if I were an old dog. Well, I shall get over it, sir.

[John Lane]

Ah, the eternal mystery of woman. As you know, I am surrounded by the dear creatures and I am still mystified by them every day of my life. By the way, if you had asked me, dear fellow, of course I would have had no objection. All I can say, if I were to venture some advice to a young man in matters of the heart, do not be hasty.

[Morris Archer]

Well, I suppose as this is Christmas, I'd better stay on here today.

[John Lane]

Of course you must.

[Morris Archer]

But I'll set off first thing tomorrow, sir, if you don't mind. I couldn't stand it, being here.

[John Lane]

I understand your feelings. Still, you mustn't hurry off to Africa or anywhere else because of Isabel. Do you hear me, lads?

[Morris Archer]

Yes, sir.

[John Lane]

Well, we should prepare ourselves. The ladies will be down for breakfast directly.

[Alice Lane]

My darling daughter, I am so sorry. Listen to your mama.

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[Alice Lane]

Worth having, he will ask you again.

[Mabel Lane]

Oh, no, I don't think he will, Mama. I know he won't.

[Isabel (Bella) Lane]

I told him it could never be.

[Alice Lane]

Yes, my dear, but even so, he may somehow up the courage to ask you again. Oh, he will be very unlike other men if he does not.

[Isabel (Bella) Lane]

Why did I say it? My mouth was saying it could never be with absolute certainty. And yet my heart was full of love. He was kneeling to me, asking me.

[Mabel Lane]

To be his wife, and all I.

[Isabel (Bella) Lane]

Could do was reject him. If only you'd seen the look in his poor sweet eyes.

[Mabel Lane]

What is wrong with me?

[Alice Lane]

I don't know. It was only the shock, my dear. I'm sure of it. You couldn't think straight. And of course you couldn't possibly have accepted him. He hadn't even asked your father's permission. He was so sudden, poor Morris.

[Mabel Lane]

Going down on his bended knee and then having to get up again.

[Alice Lane]

Even so, it was very, very wrong of him. And the whole thing is entirely his fault anyhow. Bella, we must put a brave face on it for now and try to enjoy our Christmas day as best we can.

[Mabel Lane]

Bella.

[John Lane]

Shh.

[Mabel Lane]

Has your headache come back again?

[John Lane]

No.

[Mabel Lane]

There's something wrong, isn't there?

[Isabel (Bella) Lane]

Why should there be any wrong? Is it a secret, Bella?

[Mabel Lane]

You can tell me.

[Isabel (Bella) Lane]

I'm your sister.

[Mabel Lane]

I would tell you any secret.

[Isabel (Bella) Lane]

What makes you think there's a secret? Has someone said something?

[Mabel Lane]

There is a secret, isn't there? I'm sure it's about Morris.

[Isabel (Bella) Lane]

Don't.

[Mabel Lane]

Don't. All through breakfast he didn't say a word.

[Alice Lane]

He looks so odd.

[Mabel Lane]

Like one of those engravings of the holy martyrs. I do like Morris so much.

[Isabel (Bella) Lane]

Don't you like him? Please do not talk about him just now, Mabel.

[Mabel Lane]

Bella. I think he is in love with you, Mabel. And if he is, then I think you should be in love with him too. I don't know how you could ever find anyone nicer. And it would be so convenient. He's come to live at Handlewick hall, which is only three miles away. I just think how handy it would be if you married him. Then would see you all the time and think how pleased Papa would be.

[Isabel (Bella) Lane]

His eldest daughter marrying the son of his dearest friend. He asked me and I refused him. Oh, I said it could never be. Oh, he might ask me again. Mama said he would.

[Mabel Lane]

Did you actually say to boys it could never be?

[Isabel (Bella) Lane]

Those exact words?

[Mabel Lane]

Then he won't ask you again.

[Isabel (Bella) Lane]

Then I shall die.

[Miss Dimbleby]

Miss lound.

[John Lane]

Oh.

[Isabel (Bella) Lane]

Merry christmas, miss dimbleby.

[Miss Dimbleby]

And to you, miss lound. Could you and miss mabel come in just for a moment?

[John Lane]

Moment? Yeah.

[Isabel (Bella) Lane]

But of course, mabel.

[Mabel Lane]

Oh, yes.

[Miss Dimbleby]

I'm sorry about the mess, but I just want you both to see these flowers.

[Isabel (Bella) Lane]

Flowers?

[Mabel Lane]

Oh, how lovely.

[Miss Dimbleby]

Have you ever seen the like? From that nice young man who's been staying with you at the vicarage, Master Archer? Fancy that. A bouquet of flowers. Flowers for an old spinster lady on Christmas Day when he must have ever so many sweethearts. Fine looking boy like himself. Oh, and. And that's not all. Can't you smell the beef for roasting beef? Look at the card. It's come all the way from Collins's over to Underwick. But of course there's no butchers here in Kirby. Cliff Collins is. That's quality meat, that is. And delivered to my door as a Christmas gift in honor of the day. Oh, I can't remember the last time I had a bit of beef in this house.

[Mabel Lane]

Wasn't that nice of Morris? Don't you think, Bella?

[Isabel (Bella) Lane]

Very nice.

[Mabel Lane]

Well, happy Christmas, Ms. Dimblebee.

[Miss Dimbleby]

And to you, my dears. And to all at the vicarage. Oh, what a day it is, to be sure.

[Mabel Lane]

Oh, Mama, wasn't that nice of Morris?

[Alice Lane]

It truly was very nice of him, dearest.

[Mabel Lane]

And he never breathed a word to any of us. He's like a knight in shining armor. If he'd asked me to marry him, I should have said yes straight away.

[Isabel (Bella) Lane]

I would do anything he asked me.

[Alice Lane]

I'm glad you're fond of Maurice, darling. We all are.

[Mabel Lane]

Except Bella, the one he wanted to marry?

[Alice Lane]

Oh, I rather think Bella is fond of him too.

[Mabel Lane]

But she told him it could never be. And you saw how frosty they were over lunch.

[Alice Lane]

Yes, my dear, but we all say things we don't mean sometimes. And when young people are in love, there's no accounting for the way they act.

[Mabel Lane]

And she does love him.

[Alice Lane]

I feel sure of it.

[Mabel Lane]

There must be something we can do.

[Alice Lane]

Sometimes, Mabel, it's best to leave things be. You'd be surprised how things often sort themselves out given time.

[Isabel (Bella) Lane]

But there is no time.

[Mabel Lane]

He's going away tomorrow.

[Morris Archer]

Mabel. Would you like to come for a walk?

[Mabel Lane]

Quick. Come in now.

[John Lane]

Shh.

[Mabel Lane]

Close the door.

[Morris Archer]

What's the matter?

[Mabel Lane]

Don't look, Morris. I haven't quite finished. I'm changing your Christmas present.

[Morris Archer]

My present?

[Mabel Lane]

I've made you a bookmark, Mabel.

[Morris Archer]

How very kind of you.

[Mabel Lane]

And I'm just writing the motto for you here.

[Morris Archer]

If at first you don't succeed.

[Mabel Lane]

And there wasn't room for the rest of the words. But I'm sure you know them.

[Morris Archer]

Try, try again. Oh, my dear Mabel, this could be a very precious gift indeed.

[Mabel Lane]

I hope it will be.

[Morris Archer]

If it means what I think it means.

[Mabel Lane]

I think it does. If you're thinking what I think you're thinking.

[Morris Archer]

I think I am. You don't happen to know where your sister is, by any chance?

[Mabel Lane]

Bella? She's gone to the kitchen to make some tea.

[Morris Archer]

I wonder if she'd mind if I join her.

[Mabel Lane]

Well, you can only ask, can't you?

[Isabel (Bella) Lane]

Yes, Maurice.

[Morris Archer]

Oh, Isabel. So you did love me.

[Isabel (Bella) Lane]

If I do now, then that should.

[Mabel Lane]

Be enough for you.

[Isabel (Bella) Lane]

But yes, I truly did. It's only that you were so very sudden. I've been so unhappy since, though. And I thought that perhaps you might never speak to me again.

[Morris Archer]

I found the courage somehow.

[Isabel (Bella) Lane]

And of course you should have spoken to Papa first.

[Morris Archer]

I've talked with him now anyway. And he said that if I had asked, he'd have no objection.

[Isabel (Bella) Lane]

No objection? Oh, isn't that lovely? But Maurice, if we are to be married, you must promise me one thing.

[Morris Archer]

Anything, Bella.

[Isabel (Bella) Lane]

You will never again say that cross. Christmas is a boar.

[Morris Archer]

Oh, I promise.

[Alice Lane]

That was Christmas Day at Kirkby Cottage.

[Mabel Lane]

By Anthony Trollope in which you heard.

[Alice Lane]

Finty Williams, Chris Larkin, John Rhys Davies, Julia Mackenzie, Lizzie Bowling and Mary Wimbush.

[Mabel Lane]

It was dramatized and directed by Philip Glassborough.

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