Everyone needs a place of safety.
Somewhere that bathes us in warmth and reassurance.
Hello!
Somewhere where the door is always open
and where it can be closed
to keep us secure and safe from harm.
Sometimes a smell or a taste will take us back to childhood.
A simple dish can become a talisman,
warding off the perils of the world outside.
We all find ways to build our strongholds.
Life can be so bleak without the benison of shelter.
Good afternoon, Nurse.
I hope you gave it a good wash this time, Mrs Williams.
Washed and scrubbed, don't you worry. Thank you.
Excuse me, is Dr Turner here?
He is, but he's only seeing referrals.
I'd like to see Dr Turner, please.
If I may take your name, Mrs...?
It's Louise Wrigley - Miss.
And if I can have your co-op card, Miss Wrigley?
I don't have one.
Well, you should have been issued with one
when your pregnancy was confirmed.
But that's the whole point.
I need to see the doctor to have my pregnancy confirmed.
If you're not actually pregnant...
No, I am.
That's why he did the test. And he said he'd know by today.
Please, I really have to know.
Oh, very well.
If you'll take a seat, I shall speak with Dr Turner.
That's another two pounds this week, Mrs Williams.
Me know, Nurse, but I'm big-boned.
I know it's hard,
but we have to try and limit your weight gain.
Did you look at the pamphlet me did give you
about healthy eating?
Yes, yes. But, er, hope you don't mind me tell you,
you need to put on some weight, you look too magga.
My weight is just fine, thank you.
I don't understand.
I've seen the test result, Miss Wrigley,
and it confirmed that you're not pregnant.
It isn't the news you were hoping for?
It's not that, it's just the test must be wrong.
It's generally very reliable.
But I know how I feel.
I'm feeling sick all the time and I'm sort of tender, there.
I've got all the symptoms.
I can see why that might be confusing, but...
What if you did another test? Just in case?
We can certainly examine you,
- if it would put your mind at rest. - Yes.
Yes, please, Doctor.
Can you do it now?
Your blood pressure is up a little, Mrs Williams.
And I see there was a trace of glucose
in your last urine test.
Ah, the nurse said it was probably the jam jar.
It's possible, but we'll need to repeat the test
and keep a close eye between now and the birth.
Now, I hope you haven't been trying to do too much.
I'm fine, Sister, just tired.
Then, I'm not as young as I was the last time around.
And this one
presses down on my bladder like anything.
Lie back for me.
Baby's certainly a very good size.
Hah, the other two were just the same,
nine pounds, and ten and a half -
big, bonny and healthy, the pair of them.
That's good to hear.
Now, while my hand is on Baby's head,
I'd like you to slowly sit up for me.
That's it.
There! I can feel the head dropping nicely down
into the pelvis.
- Hah! At least we know it fit. - It does.
But given Baby's size,
we do still need to plan for a hospital delivery.
I told you, Mrs Turner.
I'm having this baby in my own house.
I promise you, you'll receive excellent care
at St Cuthbert's.
I don't doubt it.
My Antony is a porter there.
And Lord knows he does a fine job.
But I delivered two babies in one room with no running water.
I mean to do it properly this time.
Hospital are for sick people.
Babies should be born at home.
Right.
That's fine.
We'll just give you a moment to slip your things back on.
Please, just tell me.
I'm pregnant, aren't I?
No, Miss Wrigley.
Having examined you,
I can say with certainty
that there is no sign of a pregnancy.
I see.
I'll let you get dressed.
And then if you'd like to talk further...
No. Thank you, Doctor.
Miss Wrigley, it's perfectly natural to feel anxious
about an unexpected pregnancy,
but there are several contraceptive options available...
Thank you.
That won't be necessary.
Bless, O Father, thy gifts to our use and us to thy service,
for the sake of Jesus Christ, our Lord.
- Amen. - Amen.
It seems we are to have a visitor.
Oh, yes?
A young curate who requires temporary lodgings
before joining his new parish in Newcastle.
And where will the young gentleman be sleeping?
He will take the spare room at the top of the house.
I'm assured he'll be perfectly happy up there.
Glad to hear it.
Mm!
Is your tooth still troubling you, Sister?
No, no, no, it's much better, thank you.
I do not understand.
Is the Bishop labouring under the misapprehension
that we are some form of lodging house?
No, he isn't.
But it seemed the least we could do.
Do try and eat something.
I have no appetite for Spam.
I believe the other is fish paste.
The contents of the sandwich is immaterial.
It does not ameliorate the blandness of the bread.
That was wonderful, Lucille.
Proper Guyanese pepper pot, just like my mother used to make.
I'm glad you like it.
You don't need to do that.
We can't leave them soaking in the sink.
Don't forget you're living in a church.
And wonderful it is, too.
No-one stealing my milk.
No long queues for the bathroom.
Now you're just showing off.
I thought it was bad with three sisters,
but if I don't get in the bathroom before Trixie,
me not get in at all.
I'm sorry, I shouldn't gloat.
Here, I wanted to show you this.
My mother sent it.
That's my cousin Rose and her family.
- Them the ones who live near Shell Beach? - Mm-hm.
She said the whole family are going down there
for Uncle John's birthday.
They're having a big celebration by the sea.
When I was a little girl,
I always had my birthday party at the beach.
My mother would make a special picnic
and we all swimming in the sea.
So far from Poplar, that's for sure.
Everton, plate in the sink. The nurse is here.
I hope you're not standing on your feet
- all day, Mrs Williams. - Uh-uh.
I just run the iron over a few sheets.
Gayle, put these away for me - third shelf.
Good girl.
You have them well trained.
A place for everything
and everything in its place -
that's what my mother taught me.
Ooh!
- Are you very thirsty? - Uh-uh.
Uh-uh. I just get hot when I'm ironing.
You have to really try for rest while you can.
I tell you, Nurse,
I've been waiting for this likkle one for so long.
Well, you're three days overdue,
so I doubt you'll be waiting much longer.
Hello, Nurse.
- So, how's she doing? - Me like to see her
slowing down a bit.
Mm-hm, I did tell her.
She should put her feet up,
- watch that new television I bought her. - Me not want to waste my time
watching the television.
And, Antony, if you've finished with the cot,
move it over to the bedroom window.
The midwife don't want to keep bumping into it
every five minutes.
Mrs Williams, you know I said that when labour starts,
you need for go straight to the hospital?
It's safest for you and for Baby.
Well, er, we'll just see how we go.
Ah! Cyril, just the man. I've got something for you.
Oh, yes?
A bunch of silk flowers.
Oh, Fred, you really are too kind.
Oh, get on with you.
Mrs Wallace dropped them in for the church,
- asked me to keep 'em safe. - It's much appreciated.
Now, then, Fred Buckle, what did we say?
This is a newsagent's, not a lending library.
Yeah, I know that, Vi. It's just that, um...
Alfie Norris, two weeks owing.
Joe Hinds, three weeks owing.
Yeah, but to be fair, poor old Joe, he's laid up
- with the old lumbago, ain't he? - If he can walk to the shop,
then he can put his hand in his pocket.
You all right there, Cyril?
I just wondered if you might have such a thing as a picnic basket.
Ah, picnic basket?
Well, I do, as it happens.
Although I couldn't tell you the last time I used it.
Are you planning a treat for a certain nurse?
Thought I'd surprise Lucille with a trip to the coast.
Oh, now that is what I call romantic.
I think you took it down the shed, Fred.
Looking for something, Sister Frances?
Oh, no. I was just...
I thought we might have some oil of cloves.
Chemist on Commercial Road is open late.
But you can't avoid the dentist for ever, you know.
Of course. No, I quite understand.
Well, leave it with me and I'll see what I can do.
You're welcome.
- Everything all right? - That was St Cuthbert's.
One of their Sister Tutors has sprained her ankle
and they need someone to carry out the pupil midwife assessments.
I'm going to see if Nonnatus can spare anyone.
They need every extra penny they can find.
And all the while the clock is ticking.
Don't, Patrick.
Doesn't bear thinking about.
In six months' time, there could be no more Nonnatus.
And what would that mean for the maternity home?
How would we keep it going without their support?
We have to pray it doesn't come to that.
I'm not sure prayer alone will be enough.
Good afternoon.
Good afternoon, Nurse Anderson.
I put the special request to one side for you.
Heaven knows, the additional income would be welcome,
but it's not possible at present.
We only just managed to cope
when Nurse Franklin was at the Lady Emily Clinic,
for all the good it did us.
There has to be something else we can try.
An avenue we haven't yet explored.
I hope you're right, but, at present,
I'm at a loss to know what it might be.
Sorry to interrupt, Sister Julienne,
but I looked into the spare room on the top floor
and the mice have got into the mattress.
In that case, he'll just have to use the camp bed.
Are you expecting a visitor?
A curate. It's a shame we can't charge for board and lodging.
Oh, Mrs Turner? Might I ask your opinion on something?
The study found that a temporary form of diabetes
can develop during pregnancy,
even when a mother has no history of the condition.
Patients who presented with excessive weight gain
and glucose in their urine
went on to have much larger babies,
often resulting in obstructed deliveries.
And this made me think of Patricia Williams.
She's gained an excessive amount of weight
and we've seen a trace of glucose in her urine
on more than one occasion.
You're absolutely right, and I've spoken to Dr Turner
about sending her for a glucose tolerance test.
And her baby is also measuring very large.
Do you think it's possible
she could have developed this form of diabetes?
It's certainly a very interesting theory.
True - that doesn't necessarily point
to an abnormal condition, though.
I know it's only the one study,
but we frequently see that larger women,
with glucose in their urine, end up having larger babies.
It may simply be linked to unmonitored weight gain.
But if they were found to have a form of diabetes,
that might open up the possibility
of treating the condition
and reducing the risk of complications
later in the pregnancy.
Could prove a very exciting development,
once it's been thoroughly researched.
You know, Patrick, I think I'd like to put myself forward
for the Sister Tutor position at St Cuthbert's.
- I thought you might. - You did?
Not only are you a clinically excellent midwife, Shelagh,
but you've always been as fascinated by the science as I am.
Makes you a natural teacher.
I'm rather rusty, though.
It's been a while since I used my teaching skills.
Then it'll be a good chance to get back in the saddle.
You all right there, love?
Can you help me, please?
Good Lord, you look like the wreck of the Hesperus.
Here.
Whyever didn't you drive?
Oh, for the simple reason
that my car is currently at the garage.
Miss Higgins, you're very late. You've not forgotten
I'll be at the hospital today?
No, I have not.
Nurse Crane says you spoke to her about adding a patient
to the district nursing round,
but I've looked and I can find nothing about it.
Well, then, if you don't mind my saying,
you can't have looked terribly hard. Hmm.
Here we are.
"Louise Wrigley, admitted to St Cuthbert's
"for a suspected kidney infection,
"discharged early due to their current lack of beds."
Wonderful. Thank you, Miss Higgins.
You're most welcome, Mrs Turner.
- Mrs Williams? - Mm.
We're ready for your glucose tolerance test.
Oh, but I thought I was supposed to drink something.
Blood test first, then glucose drink,
then three more tests.
Oh, all right.
- Come in, Sister. - Thank you.
You were discharged from St Cuthbert's yesterday,
is that right?
And how have you been feeling since then?
Not too good, to be honest, Sister.
Pain in my side's been getting worse.
And this morning, when I went to spend a penny,
it looked like there was blood.
In your urine?
Hmm, well, that doesn't sound too good.
Er...
Hmm. The hospital tested for a urinary tract infection
but it came back negative.
That's what they said.
Then they just sent me home.
Well, first things first, I'll take a urine sample.
Then, if needs be,
I can ask the doctor to call in on his rounds.
- How does that sound? - Thank you, Sister.
Hmm, right.
Pupil Midwives, I'm Sister Turner,
and I shall be supervising your work today.
Thank you for being on time.
I consider punctuality to be the sign
of a well-organised mind.
Yes, Sister.
- Shall we go onto the ward? - I'm sorry, Sister.
Mr Armitage hasn't finished his rounds yet.
He's always late.
But don't worry, he never stays very long.
Good morning, ladies.
So, you've mainly been feeling the pain on the left side?
And in my back.
Have you had any other symptoms?
I've been feeling dizzy
and sometimes it feels like my heart's going really fast.
And the Sister said there was blood in my urine sample.
Your heart rate seems to be normal at the moment.
Do you think I might need to go back to the hospital?
I don't think that would be necessary right now,
but I would like to take some blood while I'm here,
then I'll run some tests.
Do you live alone, Miss Wrigley?
And, er, are you in work at present?
I was let go.
Oh, I'm sorry to hear that.
Mrs Williams, were you here
- to see the consultant? - I was, yes, Mrs Turner.
Is everything all right?
Three hours I waited, to be spoken to like that.
I won't be coming here again.
Mr Armitage?
I believe you've just seen
one of my patients, Mrs Williams.
She was referred for a glucose tolerance test.
Ah, yes, well, no surprises there.
Third trimester, severely obese.
I told her she just needs to eat less.
Only a colleague of mine was reading
a recent study on latent diabetes in pregnancy...
I am aware of the study.
And I would caution your colleague in the strongest terms
against confusing her patients with complicated theories.
Oh, Shelagh. You're not still worrying over it, are you?
The consultant was so rude, Patrick.
I just keep thinking, if that's how he spoke to me,
imagine how he made poor Patricia Williams feel.
Still, Mrs Williams won't be helped by you losing sleep.
Oh, Lucille, my sincere apologies,
but I fear Sister Frances' visit to the dentist
has become a matter of urgency.
Might I prevail upon you to forgo your afternoon off
and take over her rounds?
Of course. I only plan on doing me laundry.
Oh, thank you.
So, you've got two different types of sandwiches
and a bit of pork pie,
and I made you a few angel cakes,
so mind you don't squash 'em.
You really didn't have to go to so much trouble.
Nonsense, it's my pleasure.
So how are you planning on getting there?
I have borrowed a car from the garage for the afternoon.
Thought we should travel in style.
There you go. Pop these in.
There. Scrubbed up all right, didn't it?
It's perfect. Thank you.
Good morning. Dr Turner's surgery.
It's Louise Wrigley. I need the doctor to come and see me.
I'm afraid Dr Turner has already begun his rounds.
Er, if you can tell me what the problem is?
He came to see me before, and I'm still in pain.
Then might I suggest you come into the surgery?
I can offer you an appointment
this afternoon at...
Really!
Nonnatus House. Midwife speaking.
I see.
All right. Not to worry, Mr Williams.
A midwife will be with you presently.
Patricia Williams. It seems
her contractions started during the night.
But she didn't want to bother us
till she was sure Baby was coming.
And till she was sure
it would be too late to send her to the hospital.
Lucille!
Oh, sorry, Cyril.
Can't stop.
- Me have a lady in labour. - I wanted to surprise you.
I thought it was your afternoon off. I've borrowed a car.
Oh, I'm so sorry.
Sister Frances had to go to the dentist, so we swap.
I have tomorrow instead.
The midwife is here now, Pat.
How are you doing, Mrs Williams?
Getting there, I think.
They're coming every few minutes now.
It's a shame you didn't call us sooner, but never mind.
Let's get you upstairs, shall we?
Did you call Jasmine?
I did. I've a shift at the hospital,
but Pat's sister will be here for the children.
Tell her there's a plate of cold beef
and she can give them tinned peaches or...
All right, let's not worry about the catering.
You have more important things to think about.
Well, don't just stand there.
Go to work!
Miss Wrigley.
I'm sorry, Sister, but my side is really hurting,
and I called the surgery
but they wouldn't let me see the doctor.
Goodness! Er, well, you'd better come inside.
No, of course, Miss Higgins.
Clearly there's been a misunderstanding.
I don't think we require an ambulance.
I shall take it from here.
All right. Bye.
I think we should get you home.
That's it, Mrs Williams.
Breathe nice and deep. There you go.
I don't remember it hurting this much the last time.
Me know, my precious, and as soon as this one arrive,
you'll forget all over again.
I'm just sorry you went to all that trouble for nothing.
Oh, what a shame, but not to worry,
the cakes will keep, and you can have the sandwiches
for your tea.
No, really. You should have them. But thank you again.
What?
- Well, at least get a plate. - It's a picnic!
Have you eaten anything today?
Well, I'm not surprised you're feeling dizzy.
I wasn't well enough to get to the shops.
Have you any family nearby?
Anyone who can pop in with a few bits?
My sister's in Kent, and my mum...
Well, she's on her own and she's not too well herself.
Perhaps a neighbour, then?
I don't know them.
I was in Dartford before. I had a position as a hospital clerk.
But then I was let go and I had to move.
That's it.
Bear down for me, Mrs Williams.
Keep going, keep going.
You're doing so well, Pat.
Then... then why isn't it coming?
Baby have quite a tight curve to negotiate on the way out,
so we're going to try and change position again.
I've been pushing for so long.
I can't do any more.
I know it's hard and I can see you're getting tired, precious.
This isn't right, I told you.
This doesn't feel like the last time.
Jasmine, will you run down and call the surgery?
Say Nurse Anderson would like Dr Turner's assistance
and ask him to come as soon as he can.
This is ever so kind of you.
There's money in my purse for the bread.
Oh, just mind you don't skip any more meals.
Oh, goodness, I really must be getting on.
Of course. Thank you, Sister.
What's the matter?
Oh, it's my leg.
Oh, it's like a spasm in my thigh.
It's all right. It's probably just a cramp.
They can be terribly painful.
- I'm sorry, you need to go. - Oh, I'm afraid I do.
But I'll mop up that tea before I leave you.
Sister Monica Joan, it's time for compline.
Sister?
All right, Mrs Williams,
the local anaesthetic should be working now.
This isn't what I wanted.
- Just stay nice and calm. - No!
The head's still too high.
We shouldn't delay any further.
If you could call for an ambulance, please?
What is it? Where's she going?
I'm afraid your baby's not comfortable, Mrs Williams.
We're going to need to deliver by Caesarean section.
- No, no, no, no, please, no. - Steady now. Now steady.
Don't be alarmed. Nurse Anderson will accompany you to the hospital.
Nurse? What's happening? Is she all right?
Your wife needs a Caesarean section, so they're taking her into theatre.
But she wanted to have the baby at home.
I know, Mr Williams,
but sometimes we don't get to decide.
Oh, dear, oh, dear, what have we here?
I believe a return visit to the dentist may be in order.
He's made it worse, not better.
Well, I can't send you on rounds in this state.
Any news?
Patricia Williams' baby was successfully delivered by Caesarean.
And what was the weight?
13 lb, 8oz.
Oh, my.
Our next patient, Mrs Williams,
was overweight at the start of the pregnancy
and gained more weight than recommended,
with several episodes of glycosuria.
But the patient's weight
and the size of the baby caused the labour to obstruct,
resulting in a Caesarean.
Was a head fitting performed at her last antenatal appointment?
It was, but to quote an old midwife's adage,
"You may see the size of the field,
"but you can't guarantee the size of the gate."
Mrs Williams, this is Pupil Midwife Richards.
She's just going to check your dressing.
Please, when can I see my baby?
We need to keep your baby quiet in an incubator
for a few days, Mrs Williams,
just while we get his feeding established.
And you need complete bed rest
so your incision can begin to heal.
I just want to see him.
I know, but it won't be for long.
As I'm sure Mr Armitage explained,
he won't experience any long-term ill effects.
He didn't talk to me about my baby.
He just told me I should have exercised more self-control.
My son could've died...
...and I've no-one but myself to blame.
As your midwife, I'm telling you, you did
a wonderful job under very difficult circumstances.
To be honest, Miss Wrigley's proving rather a puzzle.
Her blood test was negative
and there's no obvious explanation
for the blood in her urine.
Then there are her other symptoms,
the pain and the elevated heart rate.
She's also experiencing leg cramps.
I'm beginning to wonder if it might be some form of rheumatoid disease.
Lupus can affect the kidneys.
And there are others which can cause quite vague
- and varied symptoms. - Right.
Erm, I did wonder,
I just thought her mood seemed rather low.
She hasn't any family support and she's obviously lonely.
You think she may have been tempted to exaggerate
some of her symptoms?
Well, possibly. The pain in her side did seem to come and go.
But there was definitely blood in the urine.
Yes, but it is very concerning.
Well, that sounded heartfelt.
Well, with Mrs Turner otherwise engaged,
her administrative responsibilities
have fallen to me, along with everything else.
Might I suggest a brief respite?
Well, I had planned to eat my sandwiches at my desk.
My friend in Bury St Edmunds has invited me
to spend a week with her in August.
Oh. Suffolk is a most attractive county.
It is. But she's a rather talkative woman.
My thoughts have also been turned to travel of late.
I fear I've been sorely perezosa -
lazy - and neglected my Spanish vocabulary.
Is there a trip in the offing?
I should so like to see the Alhambra.
Next year, perhaps, funds allowing.
How wonderful.
Well, it might make a nice change from Suffolk.
Nurse! Please can I ju...?
Oh, dear.
Sorry. Lucille's had to cover for Sister Frances again.
Oh.
Louise?
Oh, don't bother parking up.
Your presence is required at young Mr Robinson's flat.
What's all this?
I wanted to take you to Canvey Island.
What for?
A picnic by the sea, but, alas, Sister Frances's toothache
and the English weather were against us.
I don't really understand.
I got the feeling you were missing home.
I wanted to try and give you a bit of sun and sand.
It's a lovely thought.
But it's not the beach or the weather I miss.
It's hearing you talk about family
and not being able to get to know them,
or wanting to introduce you to my sisters
but knowing I can't.
It just makes me a bit sad sometimes.
I know.
I keep thinking how it'd be if we'd met at church back home.
I'd come calling in my Sunday suit.
- Wow! - I'd have tried my best
to make a good impression on your mother
and talked to your father very seriously about my prospects.
And he'd have ignored you and made you wait upon the porch.
I don't doubt it.
But the truth is, if we hadn't both left home,
we'd probably never have met.
And it's a long way from Guyana to Jamaica.
Not quite as far as Poplar.
No, but there are still ways to bridge the gap.
We only have a camp bed to offer you,
I'm afraid, Mr Spragg.
Oh, that'll do me fine. I can't tell you how grateful I am.
And you must let me repay your generosity, Sister.
Oh, no, that really...
Corpus Christi is almost upon us.
Perhaps I could conduct
a Eucharistic service in the chapel.
Oh... yes.
Yes, that would be wonderful.
I must say, I'm relieved to find you in.
I've tried to visit several times.
I know, Sister, I'm sorry.
I had some things I had to do.
Well, it's good you felt well enough to go out.
I didn't, really.
And how are you feeling today?
Really bad, Sister.
Just pop this under your arm for me.
I've got such a pain in my head.
And I'm all hot and cold.
Have you been vomiting?
I was sick in the night.
Well, your temperature seems normal.
When I was sick, it looked like there was blood in it.
- I see. - That's bad, isn't it?
Not necessarily.
Let me just empty this out.
Are you sure you should be doing this?
They took the stitches out this morning
so the nurse said they can't make me stay.
But even so...
I am getting my baby and I'm going home!
All right, I'll just rinse this out.
My head hurts so much, Sister.
What did you do to your finger, Louise?
Nothing, it's just a scratch.
May I see it, please?
How did you do this?
I don't remember.
Louise, when a patient has blood in their vomit,
it usually looks like little brown specks.
But yours was bright red.
More like the blood from a cut.
I don't know what you mean.
Could the blood in the bowl have come from your finger?
No, of course not.
And what about the blood that was in your urine?
No, that's cos I'm sick,
you know that.
I just think it seems strange...
I wouldn't lie about it!
Why would I lie? Why would I want to be sick if I wasn't?
That doesn't make any sense.
It's all right. It's all right.
I'm not well, Sister.
Truly. I'm not well.
Fred just needs you to choose some roses for the chapel.
"The Sacraments were not ordained of Christ
"to be gazed upon, or carried about,
"but that we should use them."
Even so, it would do you good to get some fresh air.
We'll all help. We can even make it like
the flower processions they have in Spain.
They are Roman Catholic.
I made ginger snaps.
She wouldn't admit to what she's been doing,
but I'm certain of it.
I have to say, it confirms my suspicions.
I did some ringing around,
and it appears Miss Wrigley has been seeking treatment
from at least two other GPs' surgeries.
And I dare say providing them
with contaminated samples as well.
But why do it? What could she hope to gain?
With this type of behaviour, a lot of it's about attention.
When you're a patient,
you become the focus of your carers.
But to take it to such an extreme?
When people feel desperate,
they resort to desperate measures.
At least now we can try and get her the help she needs.
The hybrid teas should be out in full bloom next week.
But I know you like the French Lace floribunda,
and I'm not quite sure whether they will be out in time.
What do you think, Sister?
I think you have little need of my opinion
but have been told to distract.
Sister Julienne thought you seemed a bit fed up.
You should talk to her, you know.
About what you told me.
It might help.
Some things exist beyond the realm of logical debate.
The ineffable, by its very definition,
defies description.
I know that you've been finding things very hard, Miss Wrigley,
and I don't think we've been helping you in the right way.
Well, that's why I'm going to see a specialist, isn't it?
So he can find out what's wrong with me.
I have made a referral to a consultant
who deals in renal problems...
Because I'll do whatever it takes,
if I need an operation or tablets, whatever he says.
I just want to get well again.
I would also like you to see another specialist.
Someone who focuses more on...
...psychiatric disorders.
Why would I do that?
Louise...
...I believe that there are elements of your illness
that may not be purely physical.
What, so you're saying it's all in my head,
that I'm making it up?!
Is that what you told him? That I'm a liar?
- No, no, not at all. - Nobody's calling you a liar.
Far from it.
And I'm not saying you're not suffering.
The mind is a complex and delicate organ,
and it needs the same care as any other organ in the body.
I don't believe this.
I'm in pain all the time.
There's blood in my urine.
I can barely walk, it gets so bad.
And there's the vomiting and the cramps...
I know this may be difficult to accept,
but I want you to understand that a mental illness
is no less serious than a physical one.
I don't need a psychiatrist, I need medical treatment.
Why won't you listen to me?
I really think this will be the best way forward.
How bad do things have to be before you'll help me?
Hush.
Hush, sweetheart.
It's all right.
Eh?
Oh!
Jasmine!
Jasmine, you need to pick him up.
You can't hear the baby crying?
Me know, me just have warmed a bottle.
Be sure it's not too hot.
Watch him head.
Jasmine, you need to watch him head.
Will you just do as I ask?
Mrs Williams, how are you doing?
Yeah, I'm fine.
You need to tip it more.
Right, if I could have a moment to examine Mrs Williams, please?
Are you feeling hot, Mrs Williams?
I'm burning up.
Me need to take a look at your scar.
Come in.
Mr Spragg, I do hope your accommodation has proven adequate.
Yes, thank you, Sister.
The camp bed is extremely comfortable.
I'm pleased to hear it.
But I wanted to ask...
...I understand from Sister Frances
that you have an elderly sister
who finds it difficult to attend chapel,
and I wondered if I might...
...offer my assistance.
Hmm, I'm afraid your wound has become infected, Mrs Williams.
I'll need to prescribe a course of antibiotics.
She all right, Doctor?
It's because she came home too soon, isn't it?
It would have been better
if she'd been monitored in hospital for longer.
But don't worry,
the antibiotics should start working quite quickly.
Mrs Williams, I know that
while you were pregnant you had a glucose tolerance test.
- That's right. - Well,
it's not uncommon for a woman who's gained a lot of weight
to have an abnormal result.
But in your case, it's possible
that during your pregnancy,
you may have developed a condition
called latent diabetes.
No-one said anything about diabetes.
Well, latent diabetes is something
we've only just started to be aware of.
There hasn't been a lot of research done about it yet,
but we think it can affect the baby's development,
causing it to grow larger,
which then makes the delivery more difficult.
So, what, I'm diabetic now?
And what about Paul? Him diabetic as well?
No, no, not at all.
In both mother and baby, the condition disappears after delivery.
Your son is perfectly healthy.
As are you.
It's just one thing after another.
You've had a difficult time, Mrs Williams.
Difficult?
I can't even hold my son.
I can't feed him, I can't bathe him.
Me know, but it will get easier.
I waited so long.
We almost give up.
Then I found out I was pregnant.
Me little miracle, me little Paul.
He's my reward for all the hard work,
all the years it take
for build a life in this place.
And now, it ruined,
as I ruined it.
Mrs Williams, you still have a beautiful, healthy baby.
Things may not be quite the way you wanted,
but it doesn't make that any less precious.
I've never seen her like this, Nurse.
Anything goes wrong, Pat's the one who finds a way forward.
You know, Mr Williams,
you don't always need a grand gesture.
Sometimes a few little practical changes
can do just as well.
I would be more than happy
to bring the sacrament to you, Sister,
during or after the service, whichever you would prefer.
You are offering to bring me the Communion for the Sick?
Absolutely.
So, you are under the impression that I am ill?
Well, no, but...
Or perhaps you offer the Eucharist as a viaticum
for my final journey to the beyond?
I merely meant, given your current situation...
Despite my situation,
I can assure you I do not yet require the Last Rites.
I may be verging on decrepitude,
but I am not yet dead!
Mr Spragg only wished to include you
in the celebration, Sister.
Louise, it's Sister Hilda. May I come in?
Louise?
Louise, sit up for me!
Louise, how many pills did you take?
Louise, I need you to vomit for me.
That's it. There you go.
I knew you'd come.
I'm going to call for the doctor, all right?
I think she did this on purpose.
She knew I was coming. I told her I'd bring some food.
Louise desperately needs proper psychiatric help...
...and if she won't agree to that,
then she'll have to be certified.
It's not something I ever like to do,
but at least then I'll be able to arrange
for the Linchmere to admit her.
I doubt they'll be able to organise transportation
until the morning.
I'll stay with her.
You said it yourself, Patrick, you had no choice.
But I know only too well what places like the Linchmere are like.
Mental illness is exactly that, an illness.
But when I think of the kind of life
Louise Wrigley will have now,
the stigma and the hopelessness...
It may be the only possible outcome,
but that doesn't make it a good one.
You said you had something to show me.
- It doesn't matter right now. - No, it sounded important.
All right.
Now, this is still very rough.
And it may be a little ambitious,
but I thought, nothing ventured...
What do you think?
I think it's a marvellous idea.
You know, children, you have an exceptionally clever mother.
Yay!
You packed my suitcase.
Just some underthings and nightclothes.
We'll add your toothbrush in the morning.
They should have anything else you need.
I had to go to hospital when I was little.
Did you?
For appendicitis.
Mum just said I was making it up.
She said I should stop crying,
or she'd give me something to cry about.
She did, too.
Gave me the strap and made me stand in the yard.
You poor thing.
The next day, the pain got so bad
I fell down in the street.
That must have been very frightening.
It was wonderful.
The nurses were so kind.
They put me in a clean nightie
and one of them used to sit and put her hand on my forehead.
And it was so cool and soft.
I felt like nothing bad could ever happen.
I just wanted to stay there for ever.
The ambulance is coming, isn't it?
It'll be here first thing.
Just try and sleep.
I'm suggesting we provide a number of places
for pupil midwives
needing to take part two
of their midwifery training.
We're certainly sufficiently busy
to give them good district experience.
You can just start with one
and see how that goes.
But is this something that the board would consider?
I spoke with the Officer for Health.
There's such a shortage of training places in London,
he's extremely keen to adopt the proposal.
It would come with substantial funding,
enough to replace your existing shortfall
and more than cover the increased rent for Nonnatus House.
You'll be able to charge for bed and board.
And once the individual midwives are approved,
they'll receive a salary increase
for supervising pupils.
Oh, Shelagh...
...I really do believe this might
be the answer to my prayers.
What you doing?
Just you wait and see.
Our midwives will have to have approval, of course,
and the pupils will require accommodation,
which means a complete reorganisation,
but to know that the future of the Order in Poplar
is assured for years to come...
Sister, it is good news, is it not?
Perhaps, for those who may live to see it.
Oh, Sister...
...if only you would unburden yourself to me.
You know I would do anything I can to help.
There can be no help.
Where there was certainty,
there is emptiness.
Where once I heard his voice,
be it as a whisper or a shout, now...
...now there is nothing.
Nothing at all.
The light by which I led my life...
...it is no more.
And worst of all...
...I fear it never was.
Sister...
...a crisis of faith may come to any of us at any time.
We must try to look on it as a test...
...a chance to examine how much we are worth
and how far we can extend ourselves
in the service and praise of God.
Then I have failed.
Hold firm. He will return.
You all right there, Mr Williams?
Yes, Nurse.
Just moving it up to the bedroom.
Good morning.
Look like somebody been busy.
Don't look at me!
I've had no say in the matter.
Antony raised the base of the cot,
so now she can stroke the baby's head.
And we work out a system for feeding.
See?
Most ingenious.
- Let me go fetch the milk. - Mm-hm.
Me glad for see you getting back to your old self, Mrs Williams.
Oh, we're doing just fine.
Aren't we, my angel?
The Lord gave me three happy, healthy children.
Don't reckon I can ask for more than that.
Will you two watch me paintwork?!
Antony Williams, if that is a scratch...
I must warn you, my artistry has limits.
There are no limits when one seeks to glorify our Lord.
And you don't think Sister Monica Joan'll mind
if we do it for her?
We simply need to support her in any way we can.
I've been thinking how many others there must be,
like Louise Wrigley...
...who we only encounter when it's too late.
There are certainly many who are fragile and vulnerable
who go unnoticed.
But if one could provide a listening ear
in that moment of crisis...
What did you have in mind, Sister?
I would like to volunteer for the Samaritans.
I realise they are a secular organisation and, of course,
any involvement would need to take place around my other duties.
I think it's an extremely valuable and worthwhile use of your time.
You've written a letter?
To your parents -
introducing myself and assuring them
of my honourable intentions.
If that's not too forward.
I think it's a beautiful gesture.
And I shall tell your mother as much when I write to her.
The world is not as bleak or as vast
as we imagine.
We are stronger than we think,
and less alone.
Other people are our armour...
...and our barricades.
They are our place of safety.
Too often we say, "We're only human,"
as though humanity is a small thing, a frail state,
something feeble and constrained.
But to be human is to embrace all the power that there is.
It is not always easy.
But it can be so very beautiful.
And so we grow and we nurture.
We protect and we accept.
We listen, we witness,
we learn...
...and we love.
Everyone calls me Nancy.
Like Nancy Sinatra!
Would it be possible to speak with Nurse Franklin?
This is Nurse Franklin speaking.
It is lovely having you home, son.
It's lovely being home.
I don't care if the Parthenon's the best hotel in London,
it's not a patch on this.
Yes!