Anne of Avonlea (1987): Season 1, Episode 2 - Episode #1.2 - full transcript

What sorts of things are being said?

Well, Hattie Pringle: you are
accused of marking down her papers

just because she is a Pringle.

Here you are said to laugh at the
students when they make mistakes.

What?! Well, alright, I did

laugh when Myra Pringle defined an
alligator as a large kind of insect.
I couldn't help myself.

Oh, dear.

Mr. James Pringle, the father of
Jen Pringle,

claims that there is no discipline
whatsoever at the school since your arrival

and he is circulating the report
that you are a, quote, um, a
foundling, unquote.

Well, it goes on and on. Almost
every Pringle parent has written the board



demanding--not requesting--demanding
your resignation.

Cantankerous, prejudiced old
creatures! How can anyone possibly
succeed against such tactics?

I'm so sorry, Anne. I do feel responsible.

Well, on behalf of the 15 students
who aren't Pringles, I'm determined
to persevere.

Capt. Harris has withdrawn his
rather substantial financial support toward the college mortgage

and several of the other Pringle
families are threatening to do the same.

I see. So, you want me to resign, as well?

Never! The board wants you to resign.

I want you to stay here and make
these Pringles eat their words.

If money's deemed to be the power
behind this institution,

well then you, my dear Anne, are
going to compensate for every single
penny that's been lost.

But how? Shall I give up my salary?

Oh, no, my dear. Oh, no, no, no, no,
no, no, no. I'm going to insist

that the board give you a
probationary term, at least until
Christmas.



In the meantime, might you consider
mounting a lavish benefit concert?

Highlighting a play, perhaps, directed by a Miss Anne Shirley?

It'd have to be something with a
number of superb roles in it, though.

And strong dramatic content. The
audience will have to be completely
overwhelmed.

I think every Pringle parent would
gladly pay to see their daughters'
names in the program, don't you think?

Let's see. 100 tickets at $25 a ticket.

Why, that makes exactly $2500.

Well, that's an outrageous price!
Do you honestly think anyone would
pay for that?

Yes. And all the money will go
directly to the school.

You are perfectly ingenious, Miss Stacey.

We'll show the Pringles the meaning
of the word capitalism.

Just a moment, Anne. I think that
you should have a look at these old diaries.

Mrs. Stanton, our librarian, and I
are preparing a history of Kingsport
and we literally stumbled accross
those in the archives.

They were written by Capt. Abraham
Pringle, the founder of Kingsport.

My dear Anne, if you want to win the
game, you have to understand the players.

I see.

"And so, for the last time, the old teacher passed the cruel portrait

of herself etched in the wall by
her former students.

Gertrude glimpsed the old woman's
haughty loneliness

as she retreated silently into the garden.

Shortly thereafter, they learned
that the hand of death had touched her,

and Gertrude was haunted by the
realization that she could never thank

the woman who had silently given her
so much. It was more than she could bear."

At this point in the term, I should
like to dedicate this short story
to each of you young ladies

who have made the first few weeks
here for me so meaningful.
Class dismissed.

What are these girls crying for?
-I've been reading them a short story,
Miss Brooke.

Good grief, crying over an English lesson.

Miss Brooke is here to discuss my
suggestion of a play and benefit
concert, Anne.

I think it's scandalous, but my
opinion matters little since the
school needs the funds.

Exactly. I was hoping you would
assist me in the coaching, Miss Brooke.

I don't know why you would, since
I had nothing to do with drawing
up this ridiculous scheme.

The most important question is,
then, who shall play the leading
role of Mary Queen of Scots? I--

We don't want any greenhorn in the
role. I'm not going to be associated
with anything that isn't successful.

Jen Pringle is the only one I can
think of who could play the part.

No one else has the necessary
personality.

I can't deny that Jen has a
natural flair for acting.

Then it's all settled. Why, I think
that Miss Brooke will make an
excellent coach.

And Miss McKay and Miss Kerr can do
the decorations, and I'll see to
the hiring of hall and the band.

Perhaps I can even entice a famous
soprano from Fredericton to sing
between acts at no charge.

I trust she'll sing for the creditors if the whole thing flops.

But don't say I didn't warn you.

"Help me! Help me!"
-Feel it.

"Let go of the queen!"
-Myra, since you're upstage,
don't hide your face.

"Help me, my mistress."
-Have mercy.

Mercy, nay. I am innocent.

Save me, sweet lady.
-Will ye, slave, save me too?

"Drag him away. Pluck his hands off her!"
-This scene looks ridiculous.

I'm not going to lower myself any futher!

Hattie, you're as stiff as a poker.
-I can't help it. I don't want to
bruise myself.

If I can go down easily, I will.
-You've all seen Essie carrying on.

Now do it this way.

[Dramatically]
"I am innocent! Save me sweet lady!"

Now the queen, she orders the guards
to halt, but the guards haul Rizzio away.

Now, Hattie, you try it.

"I am innocent! Save me, sweet lady."

I refuse to play opposite her!

She is the only one who can be
remotely convincing as an Italian musician.

Do what you can, Miss Brooke.

Well, don't blame me if the audience leaves.

Once more, Hattie. And please, relax.

Emmeline! Emmeline!

What is it? What is it?

We missed having you in our play.

And I am so sorry about what
happened with your father.

Once everythings calmed down, I'm
hoping I can get a chance to speak
with him and try to explain.

He isn't here. He's gone back to Boston.

Oh, Miss Shirley,
I've always wanted to do a play.

I haven't had much of a chance to
do anything.

Papa will never let me come back to the school.

I'm to spend the rest of the year
with grandmama...alone.

Oh, Emmeline.

Perhaps I can get another copy of
the play. And I'll coach you at home.

I'm sure your father, he'll let you
come back to the college next term.

I don't think so. And I don't
think my grandmama will either.

I had to sneak out while she and
Aunt Pauline were napping.

Is someone helping you along with
your studies? You don't want to
fall behind.

Well, then I shall have to have a
chat with your grandmama.
-Will you?

You should hurry along home.
You don't want to get her cross.

And I promise, I will come by
tomorrow and I will speak with her.

Oh, it's number 10 Maple Terrace.
You won't forget.

Of course not. Off you go.

Yes?

I should like to speak with Mrs. Harris.
My name is A--
-You can't. She's ill and

won't be disturbed. Good day.
-May I speak with Emmeline Harris, then?

She isn't allowed to have visitors.

Is Capt. Harris coming back to--?
-He lives in Boston, Miss.

Seldom visits here.

Could you tell Emmeline that Anne
Shirley came to see her?

Thank you.

"My Dear Mrs. Harris, ...

I thought you might be interested
in these diaries

belonging to Capt. Abraham Pringle,

which I found in the city archives.

There are some wonderful tributes
in here by Capt. Pringle to your
late husband, Capt. Harris.

I hope you enjoy reading them as
much as I did.

Sincerely, Anne Shirley,
Kingsport Ladies' College."

I have a delivery here for a Miss Shirley.

Well, you're in luck. I am Miss Shirley.

Thank you.

So, then, it's tomorrow at noon,
is it, Mrs. Harris?

Miss Shirley, Madam.

Mama! Mama!
-Good grief, girl, you're aggravating.

Miss Shirley.

What?
-Miss Shirley.

Satan life, why didn't you say
so in the first place?

So this is the infamous Miss Shirley?

Come to take her pound of flesh,
I see.

How do you do, Mrs. Harris?
-Far from well.

How much do you want for these diaries?

I hadn't any intention of selling them.

Is there any use in asking you to
sit down?

Yes, thank you.

Who else has seen these?

No one, as far as I know.

Then I am ready to negotiate.

I will give you what you want,

if you'll give me your word

not to reveal this monstrosity to
the rest of the Pringles.

I was only hoping I might convince
you to let me to tutor your granddaughter, Emmeline,

as I understand she will
not be returning to school.

Oh, clever, aren't we?
Sugar-coated blackmail.

You want a regular salary to
keep you quiet, is that it?

I beg your pardon?

Innocent as doves;
cunning as serpents.

You knew when you found that
scandalous entry about my husband,
it wasn't true.

It couldn't be true. The rest of
the Pringles will be delighted to
believe it, won't they,

and make us the laughing stock of
Kingsport.

Which scandalous entry?
-Oh, so there's more than one, is there?

Pauline.

"Josiah Harris' ship was burned and the boats taken.

Harris and the crew nearly starved.

In the end, they-- they ate Jonas Selkirk

who had shot himself.

They lived on him until rescued.

Harris told me himself.

Seemed to think it was a good joke."

On occasion, papa would get so angry--
-Pauline! Be quiet!

That is a lie.

My husband never ate anyone,
dead or alive.

Let alone, Jonas Selkirk.

Abraham Pringle wrote that nonsense
to get a rise out of his silly wife.

Amy Pringle was notoriously gullible.

Oh, please, Miss Shirley.
Don't show these to anyone.

Our Pringle relations might publicize it. We'll do anything.

Ow!

Now, Miss Shirley. How much do you
want to tutor my granddaughter?

Why, you've misunderstood me completely.

I'm not threatening you.

I just thought you'd enjoy all the
other splendid things said about
your husband.

I never dreamed of telling anyone
he was a cannibal.

Well, naturally, we tend to be a
little suspicious of strangers in
Kingsport.

Perhaps we have misjudged you.

I suppose the child should
continue with her studies.

Pauline has no time; she's busy
looking after me.

You won't mention this
misunderstanding to anyone, will you?

I'll try to remember not to.

And when do you want to start?

Immediately.

These two angles of the triangle
are equal to each other. The two
sides opposite these angles are
equal to each other.

Emmeline, why hasn't anyone
replaced your spectacles?

Well, papa says I don't really
need to wear them as much as I do.

And grandmama won't because she's
an old skinflint.

Who gave you those, then?
-Mother Superior at the convent in
Boston two years ago.

Anyway, I'm only supposed to use
them for reading.

You simply cannot use them anymore. You must have another pair.

I found another copy of Mary--
-"Mary Queen of Scots"!

Oh, her very name just thrills me
to my fingertips.

I don't believe she really murdered
Darnley, do you?

Shh! Heaven help you two if you
wake her up.

I think it's ever so dramatic,
don't you?

It's a very challenging role.
-We used to have dramatics and
music at the convent.

Mother Superior said I was quite
good at both.

She taught me to play the piano,
too, you know.

Unfortunately, grandmama won't let
me touch it.

Could we read it together?
-I think so.

I'll play all of the other parts, and you read Mary.

Let's start here.

"Forgive all evil toward me of all
men, deed or device to hurt me....

"...Yea, I would not bear one heart unreconciled with mine when mine is cold.

"I will not take Death's hand with
any soil of hate or wrath or wrong
about me.

"But being friends with this past world,

pass it in the general peace of love."

That was wonderful!

Thank you for bringing me, Miss Shirley.

This will be our secret place which you cannot reveal to anyone.

Grandmama never lets me out alone.

She thinks I'm liable to be
kidnapped by gypsies.

I don't know why she'd care if I
was kidnapped by gypsies; all she
cares about is her aching back and sore feet.

Now, now. Old people cling to the
way they were brought up themselves.

Secretly she hates me.

She always calls me "the child"

as though I may be "the dog" or
"the cat."

If I make a spark of noise, she
nearly passes out.

She's and old tyrant and someday,
I'm going to run away forever

and become a real actress.

Why have you never lived with your father?

He's very occupied with his
business affairs.

I was at two other boarding schools
before I came to this one.

But he brought me here so I would
be close to grandmama and so he
wouldn't worry about me.

I'm sure he means to do what's best.

What Jen Pringle said about my
papa hurt, you know...

Because it's true.

"Dear Papa, I want so much to
return to K.L.C.

I'd like to ask you to allow me to
go back to K.L.C. next term.

I was at the top of my class before
I left

and hoped you'd be proud of my
grades.

Please understand it was all a
mistake.

I tried to reach you in Baltimore,
but I suppose you never received
the letter."

Miss Shirley is here for your
tutorial, Miss.
-Thank you.

Miss Shirley! Grandmama will eat
you alive!

We're to have our studies in this room. I simply cannot tolerate the
gloominess any longer.

I have a wonderful surprise for you.

Miss Stacey has lent me a Royal
Conservatory program and you can
begin today.

I can't. Grandmama has forbidden me...
-Fiddlesticks!

It's high time someone reminded your
grandmama what a piano sounds like.

Uh, and it shouldn't be me. You can
start with these elementary
exercises as a refresher course.

But, it is a step in the right
direction.

I'll get your textbooks. Play!

Pauline! Come in here, girl.

We will answer and we will
tell them we cannot accept.

Mama wants her stationary, Abigail.

Who on earth is making that
confounded racket?

That piano isn't meant
to be played!

Get away from there, child!

Who gave you permission to play
that piano?
- I'm sorry, Mrs. Harris, but
Emmeline must be allowed to devote
some time to musical studies.

I don't believe in young girls
playing the piano in public.

It tends to make them bold
and forward.

I..., I think perhaps you are wise,
Mrs. Harris.

However, I am told that most of the
young Pringle girls in Kingsport
have private lessons.

And..
I just wouldn't want to be accused of negligence in Emmeline's proper upbringing.

Well, who gave you permission to
open those windows?

I just wanted your staff to see how
dusty this room is. It needs a
thorough going over.

Well, have it your way. You young
people are all so giddy.

Pauline wants to go away and
leave me.

It's only for the day, mama.
-"Only for the day," says she.

It never seems to occur to anyone
that I'd like a day out of this
confounded wheelchair.

You may not have the use of you legs, grandmama, but there's nothing the matter with your tongue.

Don't you dare to be impertinent, child!

I know a girl who died in her sleep
after being impertinent.

Pauline, what is it?

Uh, my cousin Louisa is celebrating
her wedding anniversary in
Fredericton next week.

And now, I was her bridesmaid fifteen
years ago and I'd do anything to
be there.

Well, if I die alone while you're away,

Pauline, I'll leave it to your
conscience. I know what a burden I
can be.

Mama, please don't excite yourself.
I'm not going to go if you're not--

I will excite myself.

Can't I have a little excitement
to brighten my dull life?

Oh, my back. My back, it hurts.
Close that confounded window, girl.

I can feel the draft. Pauline,
get my Afghan and a cushion for
my feet. Oh!

Oh!

Well, you know how people will talk,
Mrs. Harris, if Pauline doesn't go
to the anniversary.

What?
-Oh, I'm sure in your long lifetime

you've learned what idle tongues
can say.

Well, there's no need to throw my
age up in my face, girl.

Oh, this town is full of tattling
toadies, and don't I know it.

Well, I'm not stopping her.
I left it to her own conscience.

No one would ever believe that
excuse.

Miss Shirley and I can even stay
with you, grandmama.
-Why, Pauline could probably be
there and back in a day.

There's something behind all this,
isn't there?

Why are you so set on her going?

Because she's a good, kind daughter
who needs a day off now and then.

Never mind her weedily ways. Have a peppermint.

Oh. Oh, my head.

Oh, I've got such a pain in my head
and I'm so tired I can't argue
anymore.

I suppose that means I'm going to
have a stroke.

Alright, you can go. But, if you catch flu and get sick,

don't blame me.

Oh, thank you, mama! Thank you!
You're so good to me.

I wanted to go to cousin Louisa's
so much,

Oh, mama, I only have this old black
taffeta to wear. Do you think--
-Black taffeta is quite good enough
for Louisa Hilton's wedding.

She'd dress in scarlet, that one,
if I'd let her and she's only
waiting till I'm dead to do it.

As long as I'm alive you will be
decent, Pauline Harris.

Alright, mama. I'm just going to
be glad inside and not even think
about what I'm wearing.

And I'm sure that you'll get along
with Miss Shirley splendidly, mama.

"I will not take Death's hand with
any soil of hate or wrath or wrong
about me.

But being friends with this past
world,

pass from it in the general
peace of love."

Well, you've all done remarkably
well and deserve multitudes of
praise.

Now make sure you have your lines
down pat for next Friday's
rehearsal.

And, before you all go,
I have one announcement to make.

Mrs. Capt. Josiah Harris and her granddaughter Emmeline
would be pleased to invite you to a fall picnic tomorrow morning.

Now, if you care to attend, we'll
be meeting at Maplehurst at 10am.

Oh, please bring a small gift for
Mrs. Harris out of politeness for
her generosity in hosting this event.

You can go home, now, girls.

It's coming. Coming.
-They look wonderful.

Quite a reaction from those old
diaries, Anne.

It goes to show you how my old students always pull through.
-Don't speak too loudly, yet.

I just received a letter from
Gilbert Blythe. It seems he's
finally in medical school.

I know. Well, how's he doing?
-Well, you know Gilbert's so modest.

But reading between the lines,
I'd say he's top of his class. He
wanted to know how you are doing, as well.

Well, you may tell him I'm keeping
out of mischief.

Come in.

It's only me, Pauline.
-Oh, Miss Shirley. How do I look?

Dreadful! You simply cannot go in
that old thing.

I'm going to lend you my best dress.

Oh, my dear. No, no, no.
I'm on tender hooks as it is.
Mama might change her mind.

Don't be silly. Get up, and take
this black taffeta off. You can
put this on underneath and change
at the party.

Oh, but-- but-- but to deceive
mama, I--

You wouldn't want to bring bad luck
to a wedding anniversary wearing
that black thing, would you?

No.

Oh, oh, oh, no. Now, just a whiff.
Mama won't approve of this.

Oh, apple blossom. Oh, how this
reminds me of Adelaide Pringle when she--

Who?
-Morgan's wife.

Mother of the child. She was my
first cousin on mama's side.

I see.

Pauline, why does your
brother never visit?

Oh, Morgan, he's become just become
just like papa,

always ordering people about, no
time for anyone else.

Morgan used to be so robust and
handsome,

and Adelaide used to love music
and parties...

What happened?

Well, it's not Christian to speak
of the dead.

Well, how did she die, then?

She ran off shortly after the
child was born, and died of
consumption.

The Pringles all blamed Morgan,
including mama.

But it wasn't Morgan's fault.

Now mama won't have anything about
that reminds her of what happened
to Adelaide.

But that's wrong, Pauline.

What make people on this town hold
such grudges against one other?

Oh, the Pringles have always
bickered a great deal amongst
themselves.

We're very polite to each other in public.
-I've never seen such ridiculous behavior.

It is absolutely Byzantine.

Well, in any case, Pauline Harris,
you are going to have the day off
of your life.

Good morning, Mrs. Harris.
-Walking as if we owned the world,
are we?

So I do. Come along, Pauline.

I'm ready to go, mama.

Too much color, girl. You look
painted.

Oh, no it's just, I'm flushed.

And you don't smell respectable
drenched in scent.

It's just the tiniest little bit of--
- I said drenched and I meant drenched!

Turn around.

Is that a rip under that sleeve?

No, mama.
-Oh. Remember your manners.

And don't forget to cross your
ankles decently when you sit down.

And don't sit in a draft, either.
And don't slide down the banisters.

Mama!

Well, you did it at Nancy
Pringle's wedding.

Mama, that was 25 years ago!
What do you think I am?

Go on, girl. Don't stand there jabbering.
Do you want to miss your train?

Uh. No, mama.

And if I'm not here when you come
back, remember, leave me out in my
wedding dress and mind my hair is crimped.

I don't know how you'll manage her,
Miss Shirley. She's such a baby.

I never thought I'd ever get a
chance to visit Maplehurst.

Hattie! Hattie Pringle, get away
from there! That's Mrs. Harris'
carriage.

This is outrageous! I haven't
been outside...

If I catch a cold, girl, I shall
hold you responsible.

Nonsense. I want you to enjoy the
sunshine and all the beautiful
autumn colors.

We'll have a lovely carriage ride.
And you can criticize everyone as
you pass by.

Criticize? That's a very strange
idea, Miss Shirley.

That is not Christian. It's simply
not Christian.

What is the meaning of this, Miss
Shirley? I won't stand anymore of
your monkeyshines.

They're such handsome carriages
and you never use them.

You put them back, you hear?
They've not been out for seven years.

All the more reason to bring them
out and use them. Stop being so
selfish.

Good morning, girls!
You look lovely.

You wheel me back in, you hear?
This is anarchy!

Who are these rabble rousers?

Oh, dear saints above, I shall
swoon. I can't stand all
this fresh air.

It's such a pretty day. I thought
you could host a picnic for the
school.

I don't eat my lunch outside with anyone, girl.

I'm not a raggle-taggle gypsy!
Take me in! Take me in!
-Hush, Mrs. Harris.

Some of these girls are Pringles.
-Pringles?

Yes, and you don't want them
running home and telling tales.

You'll pay for this.
If I catch a chill...

You said you wanted a day off from
your wheelchair, anyway, grandmama.
-Be quiet!

Good morning, Mrs. Harris.
You look awfully chipper.

Thank you, Alec McGuiness.
Thank you.

Well, what does it matter if I die
anyway? I've been living on
borrowed time for too long as it is.

Such friendly people.

Charming neighbors. You know, I don't
approve of criticizing people, my dear.

No. May I ask, is that all your
own hair?

Yes, every bit.

Hmm. Pity it's red. But I believe
red is becoming quite popular again.

Thank you.

You girls are late. What happened,
Jen? Was your maid sick again?

And another one?

Oh, how delightful.
Now thank you, my dear.

This is my gift to you, Emmeline.

Oh, Miss Shirley. However did
you pay for this?

I had some lucky savings put aside.

Oh, thank you a million times over!

Someday I'll make it up to you.

Now, wasn't that sweet of all these
girls to give me gifts?

Yes, it was.

I rather like your laugh, Miss
Shirley. That nervous giggle of
Pauline's gets on my nerves.

Well, I hope she has a wonderful time at the party.

She's probably overeaten and made
herself ill. Like her father, that girl.

He never knew when he had enough.
Hmph.

Did I ever show you Josiah's
picture, Miss Shirley?

Why he was very handsome.

Full of heroic spirit, I'd say.

Yes, he was the handsomest man in
Kingsport.

And he adored me.

We consulted each
other about absolutely everything.
Mind you, we didn't always agree.

No. He had his fits of temper.
Oh, yes. And so did I. [laughs]

Do you know what he did when I
bought a daycap he didn't like?

I can't imagine.

He ate it. It gave him a terrible
stomach pain.

Yes, serves him right. He was so
irked that I had neglected to
consult him. [laughs/cries]

How could he go away and leave me
alone and crippled like this?

Dying was the only thing that he
ever dared to do without consulting me.

Won't be long before we're
together again.

There's no one--no man like him. No.

This is a degenerate age,
Miss Shirley.

What about your son?

Morgan.

Well, he managed his money
successfully, if that's any merit.

His father spoiled him.

Well, he should never have married
his cousin.

It's a blessing that poor Adelaide
Pringle died, dear soul.

Morgan got what he deserved, I
suppose.

That's a very inhuman attitude for
a mother, Mrs. Harris.

Yes. Well, we're not exactly
famous for compassion,

Miss Shirley, especially among
ourselves.

Anyway, They're all waiting for me to die
so they can get their hands on the
money.

Perhaps you ought to realize that
Emmeline only wants to be cared for.

Well..

If you have any compassion left
in your soul, you might spend it on her.

Children should be seen and not
heard.

You seem to be very broad-minded
in your opinions, Miss Shirley.

That's the nicest compliment
anyone's ever paid me, Mrs. Harris.

Pardon me, young man.

I was wondering if you would allow
my girls and me the pleasure of a
hayride into town in your wagon?

It would be so exciting for them,
and I promise they won't be any
trouble.

Mama!

Mama?

You'll simply have to go. Good bye.

Mama?

Mama, what's happened?
Mama, are you alright?

You're wearing a hat. Mama, I
can't remember the last time I--
-Pauline, will you calm yourself?

You sound hysterical. Haven't you
seen me wear a hat often enough,
girl?

Miss Shirley suggested an alfresco
lunch. It was most enjoyable.

I've been so anxious about you,
mama. I was worried sick the entire
party.

Will you stop fluttering, girl?
You fidget.

Pauline, did you have a good time
at your wedding party?
-Oh, my, yes.

Oh, Louisa sent you her your
bouquet, mama. The flowers were
wonderful.

The parlor was a bower...
-Like a funeral, I suppose.

And the minister married cousin
Louisa and Maurice all over again.
-Sacrilegious.

Molly and Emily send their love.
And, oh, Emily has the most
delicious baby.

You speak as though it was something
to eat. Babies are common enough.

Babies are never common.
Each one is a miracle.

Well, I had two of them. I didn't
see much that was miraculous about
either of them.

Mama, you're so bright and cheerful
today. However did you two get
along, Miss Shirley?

Well, that I have a head, and we
got on well enough.

I don't care what the Pringles
say; I think you're quite good-
looking.

Thank you.

Oh, good grief!

Well, well. "Little Bo-Peep has
lost her sheep and doesn't know
where to find them."

Good day, Miss Kerr. After this,
I shall be surprised at nothing.

"Leave them alone, and they'll
come home, bringing their tails
behind them."

Get those sheep
and that wagon out of here!

Papa!

Emmeline! You were told to stop
wearing those ridiculous spectacles
outside.

Your eyesight will never improve if
you constantly wear them--

Yes, papa, but Miss Shirley gave me
these new ones and I--
-Go inside.

I mean immediately.
-But...

Hurry up.

Young man! Who is responsible
for this?

Is this your wagon?

Oh, thank you. We had a marvelous time.
-Miss Shirley. May I have a word
with you?

You run along, Miss Kerr.
I'll catch up.

Yes, sir.

It seems that each time we meet,
a catastrophe lies in my way.

Well, then perhaps you ought to
get out of the way.

I get annoyed when people treat my
instructions lightly, Miss Shirley.

I gave explicit orders that my
daughter was to have no further
association with Kingsport Ladies' College.

Would you mind telling me what the
devil you're doing here?

We have been on a country picnic,
sir. Hosted by your mother.

My mother? She authorized taking
out all those carriages and inviting
all those girls?

No, sir. I did.

And as she has nothing better to
think about than herself,

I thought that it was high time someone tried to help her.

Then you really are as insane as
all the rumors I've heard about you.

What have you heard?
-You wouldn't want to know.

Yes, I would.

The Pringles have labeled you the
"Mad-capped English Professor."

Someone said you had written the
most ridiculous story they'd ever
read published by...

something or other Reliable Baking
Powder Company.

And that you were the silliest
red-headed mouse of a schoolmistress
they'd ever known.

Thanks to you, I was very nearly fired!

There's a logical explanation behind everything.

But, you people really are the most
narrow-minded, self-centered,
quarrelsome group I have ever encountered.

I'd like to poison your entire
clan. You can't stand to see anyone
succeed other than yourselves.

I am sure you're all gloating over
who will fly the victory banner at
the end of this year.

Well, you have not got the better of me, yet!
-Whoa! Come back here, miss.

You're upset by what the Pringles
think of you?
-I don't care to discuss it, if you
don't mind.

I'm sorry.

You're afraid the Pringle rumors
might enforce my conclusions about you.

Your conclusions? Don't flatter yourself!

You might be interested in
listening to what I actually had to
say in your defense.

You ought to look around and see if
there's anyone you like to listen to
better than yourself.

I took it upon myself to see that
this was delivered to you.

I'm sure you're far too busy to
forward a change of address to your
daughter.

If you weren't so self-absorbed,
sir, you'd realize there's a little
girl who desperately loves you.

You can go.

Morgan! Oh, Miss Shirley, wait!
Morgan!

I'll be right back. Miss Shirley!

Oh, Miss Shirley, thank goodness
you didn't let mama see me getting
out of that fellow's carriage.

Pauline, you're positively trembling.
-Oh, it was heavenly.

I simply have to tell you
everything. Isaac Kent drove me home.

He used to be an old beau of mine.
Well, no, hardly an old beau;

he never had any real intentions.
But we did used to go driving around
together.

He, um, paid me a compliment.

He said, "Your hair looks as much
like molasses taffy as it ever did."

I hope there wasn't anything improper in his saying that?
-Nothing whatsoever.

He asked me to go driving again.
Heaven knows what mama's going to
say, but...

I dont even care!

Louisa and I walked all around
the old house

and remembered all the summers we
spent together as little girls.

We saw the lilac bushes we planted
years ago.

I don't know. I just never had such
a wonderful day.

Pauline, I'm so pleased.
-How can I ever repay you?

I just wish you didn't have such a
difficult time here.

Oh, I don't even mind coming home,
somehow.

Morgan's here for a few weeks on
business.

I hope it will be just like old times.

After all, mama needs me,

and it's nice being needed, isn't it?

Oh, thank you, Miss Shirley.
-No, you keep the dress.

Heaven knows, you might get to wear
it again.

God bless you.

You've done more than you'll
ever know.

Kingsport Ladies' College, Miss
Brooke speaking...

Why, Good Afternoon, Mrs. Pringle.

Sore throat? Tonsillitis?
Good heavens, I hope it isn't serious.

It's not contagious, is it?

Oh, I see.

No! No, but...
No, we understand completely.

One must not interfere with the
doctor's orders.

I agree with you, Mrs. Pringle.

I appreciate your giving us
sufficient notice.

Thank you. Goodbye.

Jen Pringle will not be performing
this evening.

You can't be serious. Not after all
this effort.

We shall simply have to return the
tickets and put it off.

Until when? We can't afford to
rebook the hall.
And what about the band?

I still have to pay for them.

Well, Muriel Stacey, I told you
it was foolish to get up a play at
this time of year. Don't blame me.

Jen Pringle is in no more danger
of tonsillitis than I am.

This is a deliberate device to
ruin the play and get rid of me.

That's an awfully sour attitude.

What do you intend to do? Read it
yourself? That would ruin it. Mary
is the entire play.

We are not postponing anything.

I'll be back in an hour. Carry on
as we planned until you hear from me.

Miss Shirley.
-I would like to speak to Capt.
Harris, please.

I'm sorry. He's busy in his study
and I regret to say he won't be
disturbed.

I'm sorry, Annabel, but this is a
matter that goes beyond regret.

Come in. We'll look at the shipment
in Boston. On Monday, alright.

I apologize for interrupting you
so rudely, sir, but I'll be brief.

Because you've withdrawn you're
financial support from the college,

we have been attempting to raise
the balance of our operating costs
through the production of a benefit
concert scheduled for this evening.

Now our concert is threatened
because Jen Pringle, our leading
performer, has called in ill at the
last minute.

Emmeline knows the part cold; we've
been studying it together. This
opportunity would mean the
everything to her.

I know what you think of me, my
methods, and the school, but I beg
of you to let her perform with us tonight.

I take it, then, your job is on the line?
-I intend to see this through, sir.

You have no business interfering
here, Miss Shirley. Emmeline is far
too easily influenced for her own good.

But, under the circumstances, I...

I feel I owe you an apology for some
of the things I said the other day
and all the trouble I've obviously caused.

I meant no harm.
-Please, that was my own fault.

Perhaps I reacted hastily taking
Emmeline out of school.

Pringles like to throw their
weight around this community.

You might say I took Emmeline's
expulsion as an attack on myself.

But, I thought you supported the general consensus?

Please, don't lump me in with that lot.

Kingsport is a very insidious town.

I am grateful to you for your
insights, Miss Shirley.

Emmeline may go.
-Emmeline may go?

Emmeline may go.

Thank you, sir. I'm just dizzy
with gratitude.

Sorry.

Miss Shirley. Miss Shirley.
You and Emmeline hurry along.

The Pringles will be sharpening
their knives.
-Thank you.

"Forgive all evil toward me of all
men, deed or device to hurt me.

Yea, I would not bear one heart
unreconciled with mine when mine
is cold,

I will not take Death's hand with
any soil of hate or wrath or wrong
about me.

But being friends with this past world.

pass from it in the general
peace of love."

Thank you. Thank you all so much
for your, well, overwhelming

support for this evening's benefit.
I would now like to introduce to you

K.L.C.'s brilliant, young English
professor,

an individual who has overseen
every last inch of this production

and whose inspired direction has
brought forth such magnificent
performances from your daughters:

Miss Anne Shirley.

Thank you.
-Miss Shirley, on behalf of the
Kings County Board of Education,

it gives me very great pleasure to
present you with this check,

the proceeds of this evening's
exciting events,

made out to the Kingsport Ladies' College,

in the amount of $2500.

Thank you, ladies and gentlemen.

It would be impossible for me to
speak without having by my side the
three other energetic supporters of
tonight's events:

Miss Kerr, Miss McKay, and
especially our beloved principal,
Miss Katherine Brooke

who all worked so tirelessly on
this production.

It was with great trepidation that
I began my year here at Kingsport
Ladies' College,

and I owe an enormous debt of
gratitude to my fellow teachers and
to the parents of my students

who all tried to make me feel so
at home during my first few weeks
in Kingsport.

I have grown to love and respect
all of our girls at K.L.C.,

and have found many kindred
spirits among them.

If we have opened your hearts
this evening

and entertained you even a little,
we have succeeded.

Thank you all for your very fine
support.

Thank you.

I can't thank you enough for what
you've done for my Myra.

She's got along better this term
than she has in a long time.

She's a joy to teach.

Thank you. I just hope they all
realize what a jewel you are,
my dear.

I know some of the other Pringles
have been abominable, but I don't
care what they say;

You can board with me next term.
-Thank you for the invitation.

I had a teacher just like you when I
was a girl. You brought back so many memories.
-Congratulations.

Thank you for your fine support.

Papa, what did you think?
-Emmeline, you were an angel.

You stole away everyone's heart
including mine. Come back to Earth
now, for a while.

It all seems like a dream.

Well, I'm glad you enjoyed it.

Emmeline! Oh, you were
wonderful.
-Thank you.

It looks like you've single-handedly
routed the entire Pringle clan.

Well, let's just say that the winds
of persecution have blown over.

Thank you, sir. This has meant a
great deal to me.

I'll never forget it as long as I live.

Nor will I.

Good night, Emmeline.
-Miss Shirley, I'd like you to go
on tutoring my daughter,

so she'll be caught up when she
returns to college next term. I'm
prepared to make it worth your while.

Only if you put my wages back into
supporting the college.

You're asking me to renegotiate?
-Yes.

You have a deal.

Thank you. Good night, Emmeline.
Good night.
-Good night.

Miss Brooke generously left the
light on for us. She must be in a
good mood. [Laughs]

Settle down. I'll be along shortly
to tuck you girls in.

Isn't that ring around the moon
enchanting?

I've seen a good many moons in my time.

You haven't seen this one.

Sit down. Let's let it just soak into our souls.

Wasn't it a marvelous evening?

Don't make a fool out of yourself,
please.

It was thought in ancient times,
that when a man and a woman sat
under such a moon,

they would be bonded together in
love for eternity.

Love...

If I died tomorrow, not one
living soul would miss me.

What is it you want, Anne Shirley?

To be your friend.

I don't have friends.

I don't have your notable gift for
doing the queen act, always saying
the right thing to everyone.

You say you like people to be frank.
Well, I'm going to be frank.

It's your own fault that no one
likes you. Katherine Brooke, you
are all prickles and stings.

I know I'm not social and people
hate me.

Do you think it doesn't hurt that I'm always neglected and overlooked
at social functions?

I'm sorry. I've never been able to
swallow all the snubs and pokes
I've received here in my life.

I remember every single one.

For fifteen years, I had to endure relatives

who cared as little for me as my dead parents.

I've lived in third-rate boarding
houses that froze in winter and
stank in summer.

I've worn their cast-off clothes.

Fortunately, I had brains.

I made it through college and I
paid them back every cent.

Oh, yes, I'm independent now.

The truth is I hate teaching.

But, there's nothing else that
I can do.

Look at you, little messenger of
optimism.

But how long will it last? Five,
maybe ten years before you

wither inside of this endless
monotony?

Prepare to join ranks of cold,
uninteresting spinsters

who have chosen a professional
career, Anne Shirley.

"...and in particular the performance
of Emmeline Harris, who was so convincing
in the role of the young queen.

The audience was so unexpectedly
moved,

it is our opinion that this
proficient group of young actresses
must establish a permanent dramatic society.

The Kingsport Examiner eagerly
awaits their next production.

And on that note of praise, I hope
you all perform as triumphantly

in your term exam next Friday.
[Laughs]

Class dismissed.

Emmeline.

I'd like to apologize for the...

inconvenience I caused you, Miss Shirley.

We're all glad to see that your
health has improved so quickly.

Yes, I think the doctor was overly
concerned.

I...

I hope I may stay in the dramatic
society, if you're going to continue.

Well, we couldn't do without you.

Thank you, Miss Shirley.

Oh, my mother wants to know if
you'd like to help on the

annual hospital bizarre, if you
have the time.

Tell your mother I'd be flattered.

Good afternoon, girls. Anne!

Hello.
-The board was totally enthralled.

Better than that, they were
absolutely floored when they
received Capt. Harris' check.

They want to renew your contract
for five years.

Five years? I'm not sure I can
last that long.

Well, I think that you ought to
write a book about it. Oh, Miss
Brooke, isn't it wonderful?

Authors are such kittle kattle.
I wouldn't trust your description
of any of us.

Here. These came for you.

Thank you.

"Thank you, again. I would like
to return the favor.

I'd be pleased to have you escort
my family for a short visit to
Boston when I return in a month."

Sincerely, Morgan Harris."

Oh, they're beautiful!

Pauline Harris, you don't know if
you're coming or going, girl.

Move that hat box.

Not up there, girl, you'll brain me.
It's not safe up there, either.

Put it back, girl.
Put it back.

Lower the blind. It needs to be
just about one inch lower.

Oh, Pauline. Pauline, now you've
done it.

Oh, all that light makes my
headache worse.

I'm sorry, mama.

Oh, you've got your color back,
Mrs. Harris. You must be feeling better.

I am completely worn out with all
the worry, and the motion sickness;

my stomach is dropping out, thank
you. Why I ever listened to you and
came on this trip in the first place--

Now, now, we're almost there.

Perhaps you'd like some lunch, Pauline?
-We are not hungry.

Can they make a decent cup of tea
on this contraption?

I'd rather drink mud than the tea
that some people make.

Yes, Mrs. Harris.

I'll see what I can procure.

And see that they wash the cup
out properly.

I don't mean to be of trouble to
anyone, but from the way I'm feeling,

I don't think I shall be
here much longer.

Then perhaps you'll all appreciate me.

Poor Aunt Pauline.

Oh, well, grandmama will sleep
for days once we get there.

I can hardly wait to see papa's new
house. I've only ever heard of how
wonderful it is.

I have a feeling we're all here
on approval.

Papa thinks very highly of you,
Miss Shirley. He said so.

Hello...

How is mother?
-She allowed us to order her a
cup of tea.

However, she is throwing out
complaints at the speed of this
train.

If we like your new house in Boston,
papa, can Miss Shirley and I stay
with you?

Hmm, I don't know if Boston is
large enough for two sophisticated
ladies.

Going from Avonlea to Kingsport was
an adventure, Captain. I assure you
this will be an epoch in my life.

Oh, I am sure you and Boston will
make quiet and impression on each other.

If I can remember not to look as
backward as I feel.

All this moving about.

All this rushing. Nobody cares
what I suffer.

Mother.
-So this is what you have been
wasting all my money on, Morgan Harris?

And I didn't invite you all the way
to Boston to carry on like this.

It isn't fair, Morgan. It simply
isn't fair.

The child has got to come back
and live with you.

I can't afford the expenses. And I
simply can't stand the plight. And
Pauline has quite enough to do--

Oh, I don't mind, mama.
-Please don't contradict me.

Don't be so demanding.

She's back in school. Besides,
I thought you enjoyed having her with you.

I'm 79 years of age, my boy,

and I can't be bothered with the
child. You've got this enormous house.

It all comes out of your father's
estate,

Hmmm?

I have every right to be
demanding.

Why don't you get married again?

I haven't the temperament for it.
-I suppose no one would take you.

Mind your own business, mother.

Of course, I realize my opinions
don't matter any longer.

I might just as well be dead. Then
you can have the rest of the money.

Please, don't say that, mama.
-I will say it!

You're two ungrateful children.

How many times have I sat up at
night, nursing you, when you were
little?

Sometimes I thought you'd never
live to see the dawn. A mother's
sacrifices are soon forgotten.

Mama, please come to bed. It's
just the strain of being in un--
-Saints above, Pauline!

Will you keep out of this?

Now, you listen to me, Morgan.

I am not going to bed until you
give me a decisive answer.

Face up to your responsibilities
and behave like a man.

Right!

I shall look into making the
arrangements as soon as I can.

Well that's better.

Good night.

Good night, Morgan.

You can't rely on that boy staying
in the same mind for two minutes
together.

He'll toss that child back in my
lap, as sure as sure can be.

And what do you think of my son's
lack of responsibility?

I quite agree. Good night, Miss
Shirley.

Please, don't get up.

I just wanted to say what a
lovely evening this has been,

and to thank you for giving me
such a wonderful opportunity.

I apologize for mother's behavior.

In her condition, sarcasm is her
one relief.

Pringle nature, I suppose.

I'm surprised you've put up with
all this Kingsport nonsense as
well as you have.

Well, it has been a challenge, as
well as a very good experience.

Oh, I desperately miss my Green
Gables, though.

Watching the home lights flicker
across the pond at night.

Marilla waiting for me on the
veranda.

It probably sounds very foolish to you.
-You can't escape your wholesome
island upbringing.

It must feel very empty living in
this vast house all alone.

Well, it's an investment, really.

I'm away so frequently.

What is it that keeps you away
from Kingsport?

Keeping occupied with the all-
consuming problems of my business.

Running away?
-No.

Perhaps holding out for a reason
to return.

Well, I hope you found one.

I'm very grateful to you for all
your hospitality.

Well, I'm very grateful to you...
for the pleasure of such high spirits.

Good night.
-Good night, Morgan Harris.

Anne Shirley.

I hope we shall see you often
when I return to Kingsport.

Do you think this makes me look
older, papa?
-Oh, yes, Emmeline.

We can't make up our minds which
of these hats looks more sophisticated.

Neither can I. We'll take all of them.
-Papa!
-We can manage that.

Here she is, great lady of the
West Indies.
-She's magnificent.

What does "mistral" mean, papa?

It means a rough, cold wind.

Oh, no, Captain. It should be
christened after a delicious,
perfumed wind,

like a zephyr.

Then I shall name the next one
The Zephyr in your honor.

"...And the excursion to Boston
all seems like a dream, somehow.

Emmeline, who has had such a
forsaken life up till now, has
blossomed,

and I feel Capt. Harris now
recognizes the treasure he didn't
know he possessed.

I am a little weary of living
out of a trunk, though,

and I long to feel the summer
loveliness of home.

I miss you both so very much.
With all my heart, Anne."

She's plain worn out, if you ask
me, Marilla.

I'm not surprised. The way girls
roam the Earth now is something
terrible.

It reminds me of Satan in the
book of Job: going to and fro,
and walking up and down.

I don't think the Lord ever
intended it.

What is to be, will be, Rachel.

And what isn't to be, sometimes
happens.

Riches are all very well,

Marilla, but if Anne prefers the
handsome unknown to Avonlea, well,
there's nothing more to be said.

It's in the hands of Providence.

"I enjoyed your company in Boston.
I hope the term is continuing well
in Kingsport and

Emmeline is caught up now in her
studies. Thank you again.
Sincerely, Morgan Harris."

Anne Shirley?

What in heck are you doing here?

Gil?

You're the very last person I'd
ever expected to meet out
here on a day like this.

Uh, um...

Come on! The Royal Academy
of Physicians is convening here this
weekend and I'm here as a delegate.

You must be proud of yourself.

Not as proud as I was of you when
I read that clipping Miss Stacey
sent me about the success of your play.

That's sweet of you, Gil. It's
so good to see you.

Oh, I was actually hoping we'd run
into each other. I wasn't sure
whether you'd be happy to see me or not, so I--

Happy? I can't begin to express
my happiness. Let me look at you.

Ah, yes, do I look like a young
medical student now?
-Not a bit; you can't fool me.

You're still the same incorrigible
Gil. Tell me all the Avonlea news.
Have you been back?

Uh, no. I've been spending most
of my time with the Stuarts in Halifax.
Dr. Stuart's a very prominent surgeon

It's he who arranged for me to attend as his delegate.

You see, Christine and I are
engaged. It's set for next summer.

I'm so happy for you, Gil.

I guess that's why I wanted to
see you so much--

to apologize for being such a fool
last summer. No, I think I
understand now what you meant.

I meant what I said, too.
I won't ever forget you.

You turned out as I always
imagined you would.

Doesn't it seem like yesterday we
off to Queens and vying for those
scholarships?

I suppose you've kept up your writing?
-Not really.

I've been busy, and, well,
publishers aren't interested in
those kinds of stories.

Well, I wouldn't give up all
together. You know, I always
thought you should write about the Avonlea.

Change the name, of course, or
Rachel Lynde would think she was
the heroine.

Avonlea is the dearest place in
the world. But I don't think it's
an interesting enough setting for a story.

Oh, I intend to take Christine
back to the Island with me and
set up my practice there.

Dr. Stuart has a lot of pull in
Halifax and would like us to live there,

but I don't want any hand-outs.

Besides, any other place just
wouldn't seem like home to me.
-No, of course.

The board of governors at the
College just offered me a five-year
contract.

Well, that's wonderful. You
certainly won your way into the
hearts of this affluent, old town.

You won't be lonely.
-I'll survive.

Well, I ought to go. The train
leaves at 5:30.

Oh, no, really?

Oh, I, was going to mail this,
but a note just isn't the same.

Thanks, Gil.

Good bye, Anne.

Good bye, Gil.
-Don't forget me.

All aboard!

Gil!

Thank you!

Good bye.
-Good bye, Anne.

Miss Shirley, would you help us
arrange all these garlands and buntings?

This is a hopeless mess.
-What's the matter, Mrs. Pringle?

Not one of these nitwits has as
much artistic ability as you have
in your baby finger.

Ladies, I am putting Miss Shirley
in charge here.

Let me see.

I suggest you gather it up in
rosettes like this, and then we'll
hang them with the festoons afterward.

We were all so impressed with your
production at the college, Miss Shirley.

Thank you.
-And to think how you've transformed
Morgan Harris' little girl.

He's hardly had anything to do with
the poor child since she was born.

Such a tragedy when his Adelaide
died. She was a rare beauty.

Old Mrs. Harris and Mother Pringle are first cousins,

and I know how the Harrises have
cut themselves off from everybody.

It was Morgan's fault that she
ran away and left him. Terrible
reputation with the ladies.

They say Adelaide really died of
a broken heart.
-I'm sure he's felt so guilty all
these years,

that he can't stand the sight of
the child.
-More than likely, it's the old
lady he can't stand.

Well, I know for a fact that he
has been seeing Elvira Evans,

standard oil fortune from Boston.

She has been staying for last two weeks at Maplehurst,

or so my sister-in-law tells me.
-You've gotten to know cousin
Morgan, haven't you, Miss Shirley?

Yes, we've met on several outings.
He's very charming.

We're going to give Miss Evans a tour of the old town, this afternoon, Emmeline.

"Dear Miss Shirley, Please accept
our congratulations on your book entitled

Avonlea Vignettes. Enclosed is our
check for $250

Advanced against our royalties."

Anne!, Anne?

oh, hello.
-Anne.

I was hoping to run into you.
We've missed having you back at
Maplehurst.

I can imagine it must be very
difficult for you to get away
from your important guest.

Yes, yes it is. But please let--
-Don't apologize. I do understand.

Good day, sir.

May I offer you a ride back to
the College?
-No, thank you.

What's nagging you, Miss Shirley?

You're behaving rather like a spinsterly old schoolmarm, don't you think?
-Perhaps that is because I am one.

I say that with admiration, meant
as a compliment. I'm a great
proponent of independent thinking.

Moreover, I've always held that
early marriage is a sure indication
of second-rate goods that had to be
sold in a hurry.

Wouldn't you agree?
-Well, you can be sure I am of the
first-rate kind, Morgan Harris.

And I certainly have far greater
ambition than marriage, oh, if
that is what you're insinuating is
"nagging" me.

I'm about to have a short work of
fiction published. I'm afraid it
has me completely preoccupied.

Well, then, let me offer my congratulations.
-Good day.

Anne.

Anne, I am sorry. I ought not to
have made such a back-handed
invitation.

I've been meaning to ask mother to
invite you back to Maplehurst.

How gracious of you.

But my schedule is so jam-packed,
I'm sure I won't be able to squeeze it in.

I take it you'll attend the
Hospital Benefit tomorrow evening?

Yes, I'm working as a volunteer.
-I shall look forward to seeing you
there.

Would you do me the honor, Miss
Shirley, of reserving me a waltz
on your card?

Of course. I'd be please to,
Morgan Harris...

Thank you.
-If I have a waltz space for you.

Well, what do you think?

Oh, you look like a Gibson
Magazine cover.

Perhaps some romantic artist will
fall for you and ask to paint your
picture.

Oh, Miss Shirley, I'm going to
wear my hair just like that
when I turn 18.

You darlings. Imitation is the
sincerest form of flattery.

Would you run along and see if my
cab is here? Thank you.

My, my. Going to London to visit
the Queen, are we?

Are you not capable of saying
anything pleasant?

No, I haven't your talent for
pretending things.

You take my breath away with your
compliment.

You always have some secret
delight, don't you?

Don't deceive yourself. You'll
never be one of them,

despite your flaunting your string
of pearls and making a spectacle
of yourself.

Morgan Harris is a man of status
and achievement.

And you, my dear, are nothing better than a teacher.

I don't know what you mean. But I
honestly feel sorry for you, Katherine.

You shut out every spark of
happiness around you. I will not
be poisoned by your bitterness.

You are good luck, Anne Shirley.
This is the largest number of
tickets we've ever sold for the hospital.

Well, I enjoy helping out in any
which way I can, Mrs. Pringle.
-Don't get stuck behind that table all night.

Be sure to get a dance.
-I will.

You took the teachers' course at
Queen's. Shirley, isn't it?

Anne Shirley, yes.

Lewis Allen. I remember, you won
the Avery Scholarship and Gilbert Blythe

won the gold medal.

Yes, that's right. Pleased to know
you. What do you do now, Lewis?

I am the principal of Richmond
Public School. Not the most
adventurous place in the world, but,

uh, I've done alright for myself,
compared to a lot of others from Queens.

Do you dance as well as you boast?
-Better.

Morgan Harris certainly upstaged
the Pringles with that Evans woman.

They say she's a perfect cat.
Worth millions, though.

I've never. And believe me, it
will take all his gold to gild
a pill like her.

It's a match of adjoining bank
accounts, to be sure.

Anne! Anne,

Good evening, sir.
Or rather, good night.
-Good night? You promised me a waltz.

I'm sorry, my card was full all evening.

You needn't feel obligated to patronize a local school teacher. I'm sure you've paid handsomely for your ticket.

Wait a moment. Let me explain--
-Please, don't spoil the evening

for your guest by causing a scene.

Anne!

Where are you going?
-I'm quite exhausted.

Please, don't complicate matters
by making excuses.

Elvira Evans is a business associate.
For the past year I have been liquidating
the last of her father's shipping estate

Bringing her to Maplehurst was a
gesture of hospitality, the
conclusion of a lengthy transaction.

I know when I am being
conveniently excluded.
-It isn't that at all! Be reasonable!

Why should I? I have no ulterior motives.
-You're right. It's fickle-minded as bees!

We all go on about you. Even
mother. She absolutely adores you.
Under the circumstances,

how could I have invited you this
evening?

I certainly wasn't fishing for
an invitation.

Perhaps it's my wholesome island
upbringing, but I have no intention
of becoming fancy's fool.

I would like you to come back to
Maplehurst.
-Indeed, I don't know why.

As Emmeline's governess, perhaps?
I'll save you the trouble of asking.
-I won't lose you, Anne Shirley.

Let go of me.
-Please, I would like--

Oh!

Morgan Harris.

Oh, I'm awfully sorry, but you
grabbed me.

I want to ask you to marry me.

What did you say?

I'm in love with you.
-You really mean that, don't you?

My life on it. I only know I
could never bear to lose you.

Would you do me the honor of
giving me your hand in marriage?

Anne, what is it?
-I do care a great deal for you
and Emmeline.

But I can't.
-What do you mean?

Be that for five glorious seconds, I really
thought perhaps I could marry you.

I used to dream of a moment like
this. But now...

I can't describe it. I need to go home.

We can go back for summer holidays.
Rent one of those big, old places
on the gulf.

Not the same thing, is it?

No.

Look at you. You're out here
without even your coat on; you'll
catch your death.

Really, you should go back in.
I still have a waltz free.

Alright?

Let's give those old ladies
something to gossip about.
[Laughs]

Come in.

Why, Mr. McGuiness, what is it?
-You must come quickly to
Maplehurst, Miss.

Everyone's worried. Mrs. Harris
has kept silent all week.

Silent? Something must be
dreadfully wrong.

She took a bad spell just after
papa left.

Now she won't eat or drink. And
poor Aunt Pauline is beside herself
to know what we should do.

Miss Shirley, thank Goodness
you've come.

I'm afraid that she's slipping
away and it's all my fault.

Isaac Kent wants me to marry him, practically.

He's asked me to join the
Presbyterian Church Choir League.

Mama hates Isaac as much as she did
15 years ago when she set the bull
terrier on him for coming around to see me.

I don't think she'll forgive me.
I'm so afraid she's going to die.

You must choose between them, Pauline.
-Oh, I don't think I can live
without him.

Don't be frightened now.
You must accept.

Oh, Miss Shirley.

ou've always been able to smooth
things over with mama.

Please try to get her to forgive me.

Oh, it's you.

Mrs. Harris, please, hear me
through patiently.
-I'm always patient. Very patient.

I want you to know, Pauline is
greatly troubled.

She is of the opinion that she
should accept Isaac Kent's hand
in marriage.

I thought there was some
foolishness between her and that
ridiculous fellow.

In your heart, you must know it's
the right thing to do.

The truth is, Pauline needs your
forgiveness if she's ever going
to be happy.

I advised her to be married and I
beg of you to let her go.

If you've managed to get Pauline
to accept that Isaac Kent,

you've accomplished more than I
thought was humanly possible.

At least I shan't have to climb
down and tell him to take her.

"I withhold not my heart from any
joy." That's Bible authority for you.

"And yet man is born unto trouble,
as the sparks fly upwards."

That's Job 5, verse 7.

Pauline! Come here, girl.

No one can deny Margaret Pringle
Harris' place as a cornerstone of
our community.

It is with great remorse that we
turn her spirit over to her Master.

Though our hearts be troubled with
this graveloss, we must remind
ourselves of the fleetingness of
our own lives,

and that someday we shall rejoice
with Margaret forever in the hereafter.

Amen.

Goodbye.

Thank you.
-You're welcome.

We're going back to Boston, Miss Shirley.
-Pauline has accepted Isaac Kent.
I've decided to sell Maplehurst.

How I shall miss you, Emme. But we
will see each other again soon.

And I promise you I won't ever
forget you. Just you mind that.

I will. Good-bye, Miss Shirley.

There's no one in the whole world
like you.

Please accept my condolences, Morgan.

Mother mentioned you before she
went. She was very keen on you.

She was never one to throw away
a compliment. That means a great
deal to me.

Will you not reconsider?

I've come very close to reconsidering...

But it isn't any use Morgan.

I'll miss you, Anne.

I hope you rent that big house on
the gulf someday, because I'll
miss you, too.

I haven't had a chance to thank
you, Miss Brooke. It's been such
a rewarding year.

Don't be ridiculous, please.

Where will you be spending your
summer holidays?
-Here in this fire trap. Where did
you suppose?

Why stay if you don't like it?
-I... Why?

Don't trouble yourself. You've paid
your lip service. Now, good bye.

I shall see you next term.
-I won't be coming back next term.

I've given my resignation to the
board and to Miss Stacey.

I came here to ask you if you'd
like to spend your holidays with
me at Green Gables.

Unless you have somewhere else
you're going.
-An outburst of charity.

I'm hardly a candidate for that, yet.

Katherine Brooke, whether you know
it or not, what you want is a darn
good spanking.

It must have relieved you to say that.
-It has.

I've wanted to say it to you for
a very long time.

But I have asked you to come because
the very idea of you spending the summer
cooped up in here is indecent.

You asked me because you feel
sorry for me.
-I am sorry for you.

You shut out life, and now life
is shutting you out. Now are you
coming or not?

What would you say if I accepted?

I'd say that's the first faint
glimmer of common sense I've ever
detected in you.

Alright, I accept. Now you can go
through the motions of telling me
how delighted you are

and how I'll have a wonderful time.

I am delighted.

But as to a wonderful time, that
will depend entirely on you,
Katherine.

The murder trials in this Boston
paper my niece sent me are real
interesting, Marilla.

Full of heathen, that place. I hope
Anne will never go there again.

Can you imagine that new minister
going on about how he doesn't
believe that all the heathen will
be eternally lost?

The idea! If they won't be, all the
money we've been sending to the
foreign missions will be completely
wasted. That's what.

I wouldn't fret if I were you,
Rachel. Goodness knows, the world
is full of beggars

and it's a pretty pass if we can't
help out a fellow being in need,
Christian or not.

Marilla Cuthbert! Don't you be
buying any junk from those peddlers
just to satisfy your conscience.

Oh, it's a ill wind that blows no good.

Come back here! You'll kill yourself running!

Anne Shirley!

I'm home, Marilla. I'm home to stay.

Oh, blessed child, how I've missed
you. We were looking for you
tomorrow.

How did you get from Bright Rivers?

I dearest of Marillas. We left
our luggage at the station.

I got homesick all at once and I
wanted to show Katherine all my
old haunts.

Welcome to Green Gables.
-Thank you for having me, Miss Cuthbert.

Aren't these blossoms fragrant?
Smell them, Marilla. Drink them in.

Enough of that nonsense. It's you
I want to hear about, not drinking
in blossoms.

You must be real tired, Katherine.
Come and have a cup of tea on the
veranda.

Oh, let's go slowly, Marilla. I've
dreamt of this moment all year.

I want to soak it all in.

Not if Rachel has anything to do
with it. She'll want to spill out
all the news of Avonlea.

Hello, Anne Shirley! I have so much
to tell you. There's so much going
on in Avonlea.

Rachel, I have so much to tell you. It's so good to see you again.

How are you?

Rachel, this is Katherine Brooke.
This is Rachel Lynde.
-How do you do?

Pleased to meet you. Come on in now
you must be....

Green Gables never changes. That's
the beautiful thing about coming home,

don't you think?

Katherine?

What's wrong?

Can I help you?

You can't understand. Everything's
always been so easy for you.

I'm caught in a trap. I don't
think I'm ever going to be able to
get out.

You don't hate me any longer, do you?

Oh, Anne.

Hate has got to be a disease with me.

I can never lead a normal life now.
-Yes you can.

You'll be quite independent and free here.

When I was a little girl, I
remember an old faded print on my
uncle's wall,

showing a string of camels around
a desert with a palm spring.

I've always wanted to travel and see that place.

To see the Taj Mahal, the pillars
of Karnak.

I want to know, not just believe,
that the world is round.

But I can never do it on a teacher's salary.

I shall have to go on forever prating
about discipline and the inexhaustible
resources of the dominion.

I always wanted to be your friend, Katherine spelled with a "K."

Underneath all your prickles, you
really are a kindred spirit.

Does life never frighten you with
its bleakness, Anne Shirley?

This is the first place I've ever
been to that feels like a real
home.

Isn't he perfect?
-He's the most perfect baby I've
ever seen, Diana.

Every baby is the sweetest and the best.
-Before he came,

I wanted a girl so I could call her
Anne. But I wouldn't exchange baby
Fred for a million girls.

If you had an Anne, you'd feel the
same about her.
-Would you like to hold the baby, Katherine?

No. No, I've never held a baby in
my life.

Never held a baby? Don't be silly.

I'm afraid it'd go to pieces in my arms.

There you are!
He's taken with you, Katherine.

It feels so good to see you dear
folk again. I want to hear all the
Avonlea news.

I've grown a whole inch since you
left and now that short Anthony Pye
can't pick on me anymore.

Can't you think of any more
interesting news than that,
Minnie May?

Did you know Gilbert Blythe was dying?

Minnie May, hold your tongue.

What do you mean, Diana?
-We didn't mean to tell you so
suddenly, Anne.

He took scarlet fever in mid-term.
He picked it up at the hospital in
Halifax.

Terrible worn out with school,
I expect. They've got a trained
nurse, and everything's been done.

I picked this up at the post
office. It's addressed to you.

My... my book!
-Well, don't sit there shaking
like a leaf. Open it.

Oh Marilla, this can't be real.

They accepted my manuscript last
February with a $250 advance.

Oh, you're a great one for secrets.

It's not a classic or a romance or
anything important.

It's just a humorous book of
stories I did about Avonlea in my
spare time last fall.

Look. But it's mine. It's all mine.

"To Marilla and Matthew Cuthbert
for their unfailing love and support,

and for Gilbert, who inspired me
with the idea in the first place."

You do beat all, Anne. Everyone
will think I put you up to it.

Aw, it's awful good of you,
especially considering Gilbert.

How sick is he really?

It's been a bad case from the start.
No one's heard anything the past week.

He has the Blythe constitution in
his favor, though.

If God wills it.

Marilla...

There's a book of Revelations in everyone's life.

I've been so wrong.

If Gil were to--
... not knowing how I really care.

Oh, there, there. There, now.

What would I do without him?

We can't change what God determines.

That's Jerry Buote. Jerry Buote
works for Mr. Blythe.

It must be a sign.

The worst would be more endurable
than not knowing at all.

Jerry! Jerry!

Jerry, wait!

Jerry, do you know how Gilbert
Blythe is doing?

I think, I think he's bad. The
Blythes are all hoping he's going
to get better.

I don't know. The doctor figures,
maybe he's going to have a close
shave yet, though.

Will you ask Mr. Blythe to give
him this for me?
-Come with me if you like. Give
it to him yourself.

Hello, Gil. It's me.

I've come to ask you to go for
one of our old-time rambles in
the woods.

I wish I could go.

I brought you my book.
I've been published, Gil.

I wrote about Avonlea, just as you
said I should,

without any highfaluting mumbo-jumbo.

I've dedicated the inscription to Marilla and to Matthew,

And to you.

I was thinking of saving it as a
wedding gift, and then I just
decided I couldn't wait.

Anne, there's not going to be any
wedding anymore.

You're going to get well, Gil.
I know you will.

I called it off. It wouldn't
have been fair to Christine.

There would never be anyone for me,
but you.

Oh, Anne. Summer has flown by so quickly.

A school teacher really is a slave
of time. I don't know how I'm ever
going to go back.

Don't be silly. There's always
another bend in the road.

Bend in the road. There's no
bend in my road.

I can see it stretching straight
out in front of me to the skyline.

Katherine, just look at you. You're rosy and healthy.

And your hair looks so attractive
like that, instead of all pulled back.

Besides, I happen to know of two
eligible young men who've asked
about you.

Really?
-They're going to be at the bonfire tonight.

Oh, I wouldn't know what to say to
them. Will you help me, Anne?

They'll just laugh at me and
think I'm an old gooseberry.

-You give yourself far too
little credit, Katherine.

I wish I had your confidence.

I can believe almost anything in
this Green Gables of yours.

Well, mine's full.

I'll be along. I want make sure
Marilla has three full bushels.

Hello, Anne.
-Hello, Gil.

You're looking very robust.
-Well, I guess I just made up my
mind I wasn't going to let it lick me.

Care for a stroll down the lane?
I don't think there are going to be many more

fine afternoons
like this left in the summer.

I wish I could, but

Katherine and I, were off to
Alice Penhallow's bonfire in an hour.

It's the first party I'm taking
her to and she's very nervous.

How about I walk you across the pond?

I was really afraid for you Gil,
until we heard you were over the worst.

Oh, I was lucky, I suppose. I'm
not quite my old self yet.

By the time the term starts,
I'll be in fine form.

I'm glad you came back when you
did, Anne. It meant a lot to me.

I finally read your book. A fine
piece of work. I knew you could do it.

Publishers are already planning a
second edition.

It was a long lesson to learn.
But you were right.

I'm not going back to Kingsport.
I'm going to stay here at Green
Gables and write.

The private girls school was too
rough on you, was it?
-No.

It's just that I went looking for
my ideals outside of myself.

discovered it's not what the world
holds for you, it's what you bring to it.

The dreams dearest to my heart
are right here.

Well, I hope you keep on dreaming.

It will be three years before I
finish medical school,

and even then, there won't be any diamond sunbursts or marble halls.

I don't want any sunbursts or marble halls.

I just want you.