Episode 8

LINNEY: Previously... Who's the artist?

ROSE: He's called Roderick Temple.

You have a very lovely daughter.

Don't you use her to get close to me.

I've got a chance at me own restaurant.

This person might back me.

Gosh, that's wonderful.

Who is it?

There's a place come up on Windmill Street.

Don't rush me, dear heart.

GROVE: Hetty's hardly in her grave, and here I am with you.

Perhaps we shouldn't see each other for a while.

Miss Love's taking a principal role in my new play.

You don't steal from your work family!

If you could just give her a reference.

I don't write references for people who are dishonest.

LINNEY: Starring Jeremy Piven, Captioning sponsored by VIEWERS LIKE YOU ♫♫ It's early.

Come back to bed.

Stop.

I was nearly late for work twice last week.

Let's make it really late, then.

It's all right for you, Mr. LeClair.

Doesn't matter what time you turn up.

You'd just be off being artistic.

I don't want to lose my job.

But you might want to... What?

Make yourself presentable.

Agnes!

I've been meaning to thank you.

What for?

Inspiring me.

I went straight to Mr. Selfridge.

My heart was pounding, but I gave him the ice cream idea, and he said yes.

Oh!

Victor, good for you!

Now I've got to do the same thing with my backer.

Make sure she gives me a straight answer.

How can she say no?

You're Victor Colleano.

Get out of it.

Here, watch out.

There you go, Miss Towler.

Ready for work.

You'd prefer to go riding than come into the store today?

Well, Pa, if you wouldn't mind, maybe I could come some other week?

I suppose not.

There's just one problem with that... What's the problem?

This week, next week?

Well... Next week we do not have Sir Ernest Shackleton coming in.

But still, maybe you can meet him another time.

You mean it, Pa?

Shackleton?

Coming to our store?

"Our store"?

"Our store,"is it?

(piano playing) Lois, look!

Flowers from Harry, that's so sweet.

The bouquet is for Miss Rosalie, ma'am.

Flowers!

For me?

They're for me to practice my drawing.

Look, it's Mr. Temple's card!

Give them to me.

Give them to me!

And the card.

Fraser, could you return these to Mr. Temple?

And if any more are sent from that address, could you just refuse them at the door?

Certainly, Mrs. Selfridge.

Thank you.

He only wanted to do something encouraging, seeing as he seems to be banned from this house.

You are a 17-year-old girl.

A grown man has no business sending you flowers.

LOIS: Your mother's quite right, Rosalie.

(sighs) You want to treat me like a baby?

Then I'll act like a baby.

I'm staying in my room.

I'm not coming to the store later!

You'll do as I say, young lady!

What's wrong with Rosalie?

That man has been in our house and used Rosalie to get to you and you didn't think fit to tell me?

I'm sorry, Harry.

I thought I'd handled the situation.

Well, you handled it poorly by the looks of things.

I made a mistake.

So can we just think of Rosalie, how best to handle this for her?

I will wring his neck if he comes near her again.

And what about you, Rose?

He seems to be pretty persistent for a man who simply painted your portrait.

What's that supposed to mean?

You tell me.

I told you, nothing happened between us.

MALE SHOPPER: Excuse me, can I get some service, please?

FEMALE SHOPPER: Is there anyone here to help me?

Excuse me!

Where is everybody?

What's going on, Grove?

There are staff missing from every department.

And we opened our doors a full five minutes late!

I have to confess I have no idea, Mr. Selfridge.

An outbreak of dysentery, perhaps.

You hear about these things.

Then surely we would have received word.

Any notes been delivered?

Any telephone calls?

Nothing, not a word.

Only two serving on Accessories.

You're our chief of staff, aren't you?

But where's our staff?

Excuse me.

Mr. Selfridge, Miss Mardle.

Oh!

Miss Mardle, where's your staff?

It's just myself and Miss Miller.

I'm completely mystified by it, Mr. Selfridge.

If your department has taken time off for some London spectacle or something, I'll be really annoyed, Miss Mardle.

Well, of course, Mr. Selfridge.

I hardly imagine they would be.

Wouldn't you say so, Mr. Grove?

I really don't know what to think.

Miss Hawkins, where have you been?

I'm sorry, I'm so sorry, Miss Mardle!

Bond Street Underground station, we got stuck.

I managed to get free because my carriage wasn't in the tunnel.

I expect the rest will be along shortly, Mr. Selfridge.

FEMALE SHOPPER: Excuse me, service!

Oh, excuse me.

Right, well, Mr. Grove?

You know what we have to do.

CUSTOMER: I'll be wearing grey.

The gloves have to be complementary.

I feel these may not be conservative enough.

Too conservative by far, in my opinion.

Try these on.

Imagine the red against the grey.

Conservative coat, and then that little twist of excitement that the French have mastered so well.

You think so?

Well, what do you think?

That's what my pa always says.

Why, I love them, young man!

(chuckling) You've got ecru, orchid, flax, various off-whites and ivories...

I want as many textures as possible.

Have we got silk and gauze?

I'll get them to you.

Right now I need to focus on manning the department.

I'm down three staff, what with Miss Towler assisting on the Antarctica window.

I don't mean to leave you in the lurch, Miss Ravillious.

I'll be fine.

The window's of vital importance.

Half of London will want to see how we pay tribute to Sir Ernest Shackleton and his doughty men.

My being short of help is hardly up there with glaciers and crevasses, now is it?

(laughing) In another life, I'm sure you would have made a formidable explorer yourself, Miss Ravillious.

In another life, I'd be chess champion of Great Britain.

Who knows, perhaps I still might.

Mr. Crabb, how can I help you?

How can I help you, Miss Ravillious?

(talking quietly) I'm sorry, madam, I couldn't quite hear you.

(talking quietly): When are the... (clears throat) Oh yes, of course.

Mr. Crabb, would you mind asking Miss Mardle to assist in this department?

You could take her place in Accessories.

Yes.

What item of undergarment is madam wishing to see?

This is very nice.

I have the perfect little beret to go with this intricate plaid.

But too fussy, I fear.

Oh, but tartan is perfect for a jacket.

See the pattern against your skin?

Now, jaunty little beret atop, matching drawstring purse, burnished dark leather gloves?

Just perfect!

I have the ideal worsted wool for you.

Maybe this is a little too plain.

I'll take some coffee and I'll come back.

Miss Mardle, it may be different in Accessories, but the first cardinal rule in the Fashion Department is to listen, listen properly, to the customer's requirements.

We believe in the power of suggestion in Accessories.

You might want to take that on board and learn something, Miss Ravillious.

I know perfectly well how to run my own department.

And while you are here, you will do things my way.

Last time I checked, this was a department store, not a dictatorship.

MR. GROVE: Ladies!

Ladies, please!

Thank goodness... staff.

I realize as heads of your respective departments this has been a difficult morning for both of you.

You may return to your own position, Miss Mardle.

Thank you, Mr. Grove.

ALL: Sorry, Mr. Selfridge.

Don't worry!

Transport problems happen.

Couldn't be helped.

See, Gordon, it's important to support the people that work here.

Mr. Grove.

The station master has sent word to you personally, Mr. Selfridge.

I hardly expect an apology for delays on the train.

It was a body on the tracks that caused the delays, Mr. Selfridge.

They've identified the body through her personal belongings.

I'm very sorry, sir.

It was Miss Bunting.

She, um... She fell on the line earlier this morning.

Miss Bunting...

They found this in her purse.

(gasping) It's addressed to you personally, Mr. Selfridge.

Who's Miss Bunting, Pa?

Why did she fall in front of a train?

Pa?

Pa, if she stole from you, didn't you have to sack her?

The straight answer is yes, but life runs crookedly sometimes.

She stole to buy medicine for someone she loved.

I never let her explain that to me.

(door opens) Mr. Edwards to see you, Mr. Selfridge.

Miss Blenkinsop, why don't you take Master Gordon to the soda fountain?

Certainly, Mr. Selfridge.

EDWARDS: Hello, Master Gordon.

Here to see Shacks, the hero of all heroes?

Yep.

97 miles from the South Pole and he turns back.

Turns back!

To save the lives of his men.

That's the mark of a true leader, eh?

Harry old boy, I'm here to tell you today is your lucky day.

It doesn't feel like it, Frank.

It will be when you hear what I've got to say.

I'm all yours!

What?

Change of ownership at the paper.

My face and my politics no longer fit.

So in a nutshell, I need a job.

Today may not be the best day, Frank.

I was thinking press officer, or... Let me think about it.

Sorry, old boy, but if the loan sharks find out I'm unemployed, I might be in a spot of bother.

Harry?

Are you listening?

I'm sorry, Frank.

Today's not a great day for me to think about taking on anyone new.

Good to know where a fellow stands.

Miss Miller, I was looking for you.

Sorry I wasn't at my station, I was...

I was just... You did everything you could for Miss Bunting, Doris.

You mustn't think there was anything else you could have done.

She must've lost all hope to do a thing like that.

We all feel guilty when something awful like this happens.

I can't help thinking I should have simply written her a reference myself.

I can understand how desperate she must have been, tending for an invalidat home.

It isn't easy.

Your late wife, of course.

It must be bringing it all back for you, and here I am crying in a corner.

I'm so sorry.

You're a kind and caring person, Doris.

I'll tell you what.

Miss Bunting always enjoyed your time in the tea room together.

What say we share a cup of tea in her honor there, this evening?

Would that help?

Yes, I think it would.

Thank you, Mr. Grove.

You think I'm being unfair.

Making decisions over your head.

Yes, actually.

And you're not even explaining why Mr. Temple is fine for painting your portrait but not fine for tutoring me.

Tutoring you when it's quite clear that you've developed an infatuation for him?

Who says?

Here's what I want to explain to you, darling.

You're a young girl... Oh, not that again!

Hear me out.

Allowances can be made for young girls behaving in an inappropriate manner.

But when a man turns up at a house without prior invitation from a girl's parents and then remains in a room, unchaperoned, with that young girl, and then sends her flowers though he's been told to stay away... Well, it'd be a very poor mother indeed who wouldn't worry about such a man.

Maybe you'll be a mother yourself one day.

I'd like to think that I showed you the right example.

I'm not saying your feelings aren't real, sweetheart.

I have this sort of pain in my stomach when I think of him.

And the right man at the right time will take that pain away.

To your stations, ladies, please.

Back to work now.

We've all had a nasty shock, but we do have a store to run.

(clattering) Doris!

That's the second glove stretcher you've dropped today.

Sorry, Kitty.

I can't get Miss Bunting out of my head.

You'll just have to pull yourself together.

Same as the rest of us.

I need to know I can rely on junior staff.

Of course you can rely on me, Kitty.

And I think...

I think that now I'm senior assistant, it would be better if we used our formal titles.

How do you mean, Kitty?

"How do you mean, Miss Hawkins."

Very well.

Miss Hawkins.

Thank you, Miss Mardle.

I think Mr. LeClair will find these accessories most helpful.

My condolences on your former colleague, Miss Mardle.

Friend, Miss Ravillious.

And indeed I wish I had been a far better friend to poor Miss Bunting.

(phones ringing) Mr. Selfridge.

Can you see to arrangements for Miss Bunting's funeral?

Certainly, Mr. Selfridge.

Make sure we cover all costs.

Would you like me to attend the funeral on your behalf, Mr. Selfridge?

Thank you, but I'll be attending on my own behalf.

Sir Ernest will be arriving in five minutes, Mr. Selfridge.

Do you still intend to greet him personally?

Of course I do.

He'll be very upset.

If only Miss Bunting hadn't given up all hope.

Life is full of "if only's."

I should be here, I could be there.

This path or that path.

Do we know what we really want?

Us being... Well...

It complicates things, doesn't it?

(footsteps) I need a few moments of your time, Miss Towler.

Back in our department.

Certainly, Miss Ravillious.

You wanted me for something, Miss Ravillious?

I'm not a fool, Miss Towler.

Let's begin there and move on from that point.

Yes, Miss Ravillious.

I specifically asked for you to join my department.

If you are breaking the rules and indulging in an inappropriate relationship, then I need to consider how that will affect my department.

However, allowances might be taken into account in the case of true and unavoidable feelings.

But you'll need to tell me, are you in love with Mr. LeClair?

No.

I like him very much, but... no, I'm not in love with him.

Then think of your career, Agnes.

Harry Selfridge!

Good to see you beyond the poker tables.

I won't be quick to put myself up for a trouncing again.

Great to see you again, Sir Ernest.

Oh, "Ernest," please, Harry.

I keep having to look over my shoulder whenever someone says "sir."

(flashes popping) Last photographs, gentlemen, if you don't mind.

Sir Ernest, when will you return to Antarctica?

Do you think the South Pole can still be bagged for His Majesty?

Did you ever think you might not make it back?

Oh, uh... What about you, young man?

What's your name?

Uh, um... Gordon, sir.

Gordon Selfridge.

Ah, a chip off the old block, eh?

Well, I'm sure you've a question.

Most young fellas have.

I'd like to know what you think would make a good leader.

That's a good question.

I'll have to think about that.

The thing is, when you're up to your unmentionables in trying to be a good leader, you don't have time to think about what that is.

Wouldn't you say so, Harry?

I would certainly agree with you there.

If you'll excuse us, gentlemen!

Would you care to see our new outdoor line of equipment, Sir Ernest?

I'm not an easy man to impress, Harry.

Well, exploring Selfridges is no ordinary experience.

Besides, we have a little surprise for you.

(knocking) Frank!

What a nice surprise.

Ellen.

A party and I haven't been asked?

That's two rejections today.

I'm liable to break out in a rash.

(people laughing) Sounds lively.

Come in.

We are rehearsing Tony's new play.

Or at least we were until things took on a frivolous side.

Travers.

Frank.

So who's been rejecting you, Frank?

Shall I go and beast themfor you?

Would that you could, dear Ellen.

But I'm afraid it's our mutual friend.

Mr. Selfridge...

I see.

Cheers.

Come and lend us your expertise with words, Frank.

Tony thinks we're nearly there, but I'd like your opinion.

Editorial is more my thing, to tell the truth.

Don't sell yourself short, Frank.

I'm sure you can help us with a few little snippets of information.

I say, this is hot stuff!

We like to think so.

I'm hoping it's going to turn my career around, Frank.

Yes.

Shall I top you up?

Well, well, well!

It's the very model we took south!

Right down to the specially designed air-cooled, four liter engine.

Harry, I am confounded.

The darn thing worked for all of two minutes, but still it paid its way in photographs.

We know how that works.

What have you found, Master Gordon?

Ah... Finnesko, we call those.

Lapp boots made from reindeer leg fur.

So is this what you used to line the sleeping bags with, then?

You know your stuff and no mistake.

It's horrid, though, when it starts shedding and ends up in your mouth, I can tell you.

Well, Harry, this is a fine display.

You must have gone to endless trouble.

Well, you're not the only one I was trying to impress.

There's a certain young man who's pretty clued up on his exploring equipment.

(chuckling) Grove... How are the staff doing?

Are they bearing up?

Of course, Chief.

I think everyone just wishes Miss Bunting had come to one of us.

SHACKLETON: And these gloves.

Can you hazard a guess?

Um... wolfskin?

Indeed.

From Mollers of Drammen, I'm assuming?

Of course.

The finest fur specialists in all the world.

If you ever go exploring, young man, be sure to put in your order with Mollers.

Pa wants me to run the store someday.

It's just...

I don't think I'll fit in exploring as well.

Where do you think all this wonderful stuff comes from, Gordon?

I think there's a lot of exploring to be done right here.

How many staff, Harry?

Over 3,000.

That's a heck of a lot of people to lead, young man.

Give me a raggle-taggle handful out on a block of ice any day.

George Towler!

What are you doing on the shop floor?

You know you're not supposed to be up here.

It's all right, Miss Kitty.

I've got a good mind to report you.

Get back down to the loading bay.

My foreman made me store porter for the day, with a view to a full-time promotion.

This is my big chance.

I thought you might be pleased for me, Miss Kitty.

Yes, but... Maybe I was a bit... (laughs nervously): Good luck to you, George.

Go on.

Say it, then.

Say what, Miss Hawkins?

Say I've let a little bit of power go to my head and I've been behaving like a... ...like a complete idiot.

Doris... Oh, Kitty!

Oh, Doris!

"Make friends, make friends, never ever break friends.

If you do..." "You'll catch the flu."

A cuppa and a curranty bun after work, then?

Oh, I've already got plans this evening, Kitty.

Tomorrow instead?

Mm-hmm.

Tomorrow it is, then.

Mr. Perez, I have heard Fortnum and Mason are promoting a special afternoon tea.

I was wondering if you'd like me to check out what they're offering.

A little jaunt, you mean, Mr. Colleano?

No, I don't think so.

I just thought Mr. Selfridge loved the ice cream idea.

Remember?

I thought he might be pleased if you could get any information.

Yes, maybe you're right.

Be quick as you can.

We've got to set up for the lecture.

And of course, you'll bring the information to me and not to Mr. Selfridge direct.

Of course, Mr. Perez.

What do you think?

I love it.

But we need something to bring it back to...

Humanity?

Yes, I like the sentiment.

VALERIE:So do I. Forgive me, I should introduce... Agnes Towler.

Pleased to meet you.

Valerie Maurel.

Enchantée.

The "look"in New York, may I ask?

No, Paris from top to toe, of course.

Uh... Of course.

Well, I could get on with the window if you want to spend some time with Miss Maurel.

Uh...

The window is all yours, Miss Towler.

(knocking) (door opens and closes) Yes?

Mr. Colleano is here, Lady Loxley.

To discuss some menus.

Show him in, Fludd.

Victor.

I don't remember any discussion about menus.

I'm here about the restaurant.

The one I told you about?

Now look, just hear me out.

It's the perfect location.

Near all the shops, great for trade.

Now, I told you, Victor, I won't be rushed on this.

You barge in here without invitation.

If I decide to help, it will be on my terms.

It could be ages before we find a spot like this again.

"We"?

If you were to back me, we'd be in it together.

You'd get an excellent return.

You're mistaken if you think that my allowance from Lord Loxley would run to that level of financing.

But you know people, don't you?

Always on the lookout to back the next sure thing?

Victor, Victor, dear heart.

It isn't like finding a backer for, well, a Mr. Selfridge, say.

You're young.

You're unknown and you're unproven.

I get it.

We have fun, don't we?

I enjoy your company.

Don't you enjoy mine?

'Course I do.

But you shouldn't have said you'd help me if you had no intention of doing so.

Ooh, that's me told off.

Look, Victor, I might be able to help.

But it could take some time.

And why such a rush?

There will be other restaurants, and you'll be that much more mature.

So... Why fall out over such a trifling matter?

Trifling to you.

But, I suppose, so am I.

No.

Oh, no.

You're very special to me, Victor.

Not special enough for you to believe in me, though.

And that's what counts the most with me.

So I reckon it's good-bye, Lady Loxley.

No hard feelings, eh?

Victor!

Don't be so... You'll regret this!

Victor!

(sighs) Well?

Fortnum and Mason?

You haven't reported to me.

Oh, sorry, Mr. Perez.

It's just we've been off our feet since I got back.

Apparently they haven't got around to it yet.

Mate of mine is a waiter there.

He's promised to keep me updated.

Thank you.

Rose!

Ma!

Welcome!

Rosalie couldn't come?

Oh, she's here somewhere.

There she is.

LOIS: Who's that young man she's talking to?

It's, uh... Roddy Temple.

Here, at my store?

ROSE: I'll speak to him.

I'll handle Mr. Temple, Rose.

You will leave and you will not return.

You will not speak to any member of my family ever again.

Shackleton's lecture is open to the public, is it not?

So I make polite conversation with a charming young lady... That charming young lady happens to be my daughter.

Well, your wife had plenty to say to me.

I'd stop now.

I don't know why she stays with you.

I mean, she's sweet and she's funny... Don't presume to talk about my wife.

Yet you publicly humiliate her with the likes of Ellen Love.

You don't deserve a woman like Rose.

I will throw you out.

See, this is the problem.

You think you can control everything, don't you, Selfridge?

Well, you can't.

Even though she may not be able to admit to it just now, your wife is in love with me.

Don't talk about my wife.

Don't take me on.

What can you do to me?

I can destroy you.

Can you?

One word from me and there isn't a gallery on earth that will exhibit so much as one of your doodles.

I can see to it that your work is publicly mocked by the art critics.

Do you want to take that chance?

(sheepish laughter) You're a silly boy.

Now get out.

Before I throw you out.

Mr. Temple has a prior engagement.

Accompany him to the street.

The back exit.

Victor.

Did you speak with your backer?

Yes, I did.

And?

You weren't going to take no for an answer.

What did she say?

She said no.

(laughing) You've got to laugh.

I hope it doesn't put you off.

AGNES: You've got great spirit.

You'll find another backer, I have every belief in you.

That's what keeps me going, Agnes.

Peas in a pod, the two of us.

We can do things for ourselves.

We don't need anybody else to... Perhaps you should allow Mr. Colleano to attend his business.

I have yet to be offered any form of refreshment.

Champagne, Lady Loxley?

Yes, that would be appropriate to celebrate our new business venture.

How do you mean?

I'll see Lord Loxley tomorrow about acquiring the finance for your restaurant.

Even if it means I have to endure a visit to the ghastly country.

What made you change your mind?

All that need concern you is that you remember that you will be in my debt.

I hope I make myself clear.

So you see, dear heart, I do believe in you after all.

(flash pops) You don't believe in me.

You believe in getting your own way.

So I reckon that'll be a "Thanks, Lady Loxley, but no thanks."

I'll get your champagne.

The sense of loneliness in a place like that, it must be extreme, don't you think?

You don't need to go to Antarctica to experience loneliness, Miss Ravillious.

How right you are.

It can be a difficult lot for us women.

If you don't find the right man, you work forever.

If you do find the right man, you can't work.

So unfair when you consider how capable we are, Miss Mardle, don't you think?

You're quite right, Miss Ravillious.

It's why I joined the Suffragettes.

Seems to me it's really about justice, but it's also about women being there for one another.

That way one doesn't have to face whatever the future holds entirely on one's own.

Do you know, I'd never thought of it like that.

You're welcome to attend a weekly meeting with me if you'd like, Miss Mardle.

I think I'd like that very much, Miss Ravillious.

Thank you.

MAN: Ladies and gentlemen, Sir Ernest Shackleton.

(applause) Ladies and gentlemen, let me tell you about cold.

A cold so cold it's hot.

There we stood, the furthest south ever, a mere 97 miles from the South Pole.

But we were nearly out of food.

I had to make a choice between epic success-- the conquering of the South Pole, but with undoubted loss of life amongst my men-- or epic failure.

Well, as you know, I chose epic failure and received a knighthood.

(laughing) Because that's the kind of country we are.

We don't always measure in terms of success, but in how hard a man has tried.

And so we turned for home and the bitter struggle to retrace our steps, only the thoughts of our loved ones to keep us going.

Home, so, so far away.

(applause) Bravo!

Bravo!

(talking over each other) Excuse me, gentlemen, excuse me.

Thank you, Ernest.

I think we all learned something from your fine lecture.

Well, it was a pleasure, Harry.

And I've been thinking about your question, young man.

I think my real purpose as a leader was quite simple: to bring my men in from the cold each and every day.

If you remember that, Master Gordon, I think you'll fit nicely into your father's rather large footsteps.

Crabb, get me all the heads of the departments in my office in five minutes.

Yes, Mr. Selfridge.

Mr. Shackleton, sir!

"I take with me the happiest memories "of my time in the Selfridge work family.

"Please tell everybody not to be sad for me.

"I've simply moved on to the place that seems right "to be with the person I loved most in this world, "my dear mother.

Yours sincerely, Miss Flora Bunting."

I let one of our own out into the cold.

This can never happen again.

Thank you all, and a safe journey home.

Good night, Mr. Selfridge.

Well said, Mr. Selfridge.

Thank you.

Thank you, Mr. Grove.

To Miss Bunting.

To Miss Bunting.

DORIS: That's what I think, Mr. Grove.

You're absolutely right, Doris.

A lovely way of looking at it...

Thank you, Fraser.

ROSALIE: Didn't it just make you want to visit Antarctica?

Rose.

I'm going to commission another portrait of you.

I don't think Mr. Temple captured you properly.

I don't think I care for another portrait.

Thank you anyway.

Rose?

He says you're in love with him.

(sighs) Believe what you want to believe, Harry.

Tell Mrs. Selfridge I've gone out.

Thank you and good night.

(sighs) (door slams) Good morning, sir.

Nice piece about the store in the paper.

Thank you, Fraser.

Coffee, sir?

Ah, yes.

Looks like we've finally won the press over.

That's great, Harry.

Looks like you really do have it all now.

Morning.

Morning.

Good morning, Mr. Selfridge!

Somebody got out of bed on the wrong side this morning.

Miss Hawkins.

(elevator bell dings) Good morning, Mr. Selfridge.

Very nice headline, Harry.

Well done.

Well, at least something's going right.

You wanted to see me?

Mr. Selfridge.

Yes, Miss Blenkinsop?

It's Lady Loxley.

She's in your office.

Wouldn't take no for an answer.

Says it's very important.

Henri?

Later will do.

Lady Mae.

So you can spare me a few minutes of your valuable time, then?

You know I have all the time in the world for you, Lady Mae.

Someone rather special wants to visit Selfridge's in private, after hours.

And is this someone a friend of yours?

I think you might say that.

He's a dear friend of Mrs. Keppel, and she's a dear friend of mine.

Well, you know I'm not very keen on granting special favors, Lady Mae.

I like to think that my customers are all free and equal.

You might change your mind when you find out who my friend is.

(women shrieking with laughter) Miss Hawkins!

Ladies!

It is after 9:00!

Customers are in the shop.

Sorry, Miss Mardle.

What is the reason for this unseemly behavior?

Show her, Doris!

No, I promised to keep it a secret.

She's engaged, Miss Mardle!

Well, that might be an occasion for merriment.

Congratulations, Miss Miller.

And may one ask the name of the lucky man?

No, really, I promised not to tell anyone, Miss Mardle.

Well, you'll have to eventually, my dear.

It's only Mr. Grove!

(laughing) Don't be silly, Miss Hawkins.

This isn't a joking matter.

But... And that is really rather disrespectful to Mr. Grove and to your friend.

I'm not joking, it's true.

I see.

Well, um... We all have work to do.

We should attend to it.

Miss Hawkins, I'm leaving you in charge.

Mr. Selfridge has come up trumps, Mr. Grove.

MISS MARDLE: Excuse me, Mr. Crabb.

Might it be possible to have a word with Mr. Grove in private?

Of course, Miss Mardle.

We can talk about capitalizing on this later, Mr. Grove.

Yes, yes.

What's the matter?

Oh, nothing, really.

Only I've just been invited to admire Miss Miller's engagement ring.

I made her promise not to say anything until I'd had a chance to talk to you.

It's true, then.

Josie, I'm so sorry.

Nothing else needs to be said.

I only wish you'd had the courage to come to see me first.

Josie, let me come and see you this evening.

Give me a chance to explain myself.

Please.

Come if you wish.

I still haven't got used to it, Kitty.

In fact, half the time I can't quite believe it.

Well, you've done it now, Doris.

You can't go back,can you?

I don't want to.

I've always wanted to be someone's wife.

Roger.

What?

That's his name.

Roger.

(laughing) He's asked me to call him it when we're in private.

But I don't think I shall be able to think of him as anything but Mr. Grove.

My Nana had a dog called Roger.

Pekinese, he was.

Nasty little brute, take a bite out of you soon as look at you.

Don't be mean, Kitty.

I'm just saying.

It's going to be so different.

I don't even know what he likes for his tea.

But I am going to try and be the best wife there ever was, Kitty.

Hasn't he got lovely soft hair?

I think you've got a lovely soft head.

Do you think we can talk about something else, please?

All right.

I'm sorry, Doris, it's just...

I'm really going to miss you.

Hello.

You're looking very pleased with yourself today.

And why not?

It's my birthday.

Really?

Yes, really.

If you'd like to pop up to the Palm Court with me present at any time convenient...

It's all right, I'm only kidding.

Maybe I will.

Richard the Third, Henry the Seventh, Henry the Eighth had six wives-- Grandma, don't you think that was a bit excessive?-- then there was James the First, Charles the First, Charles the Second, James the Second... How about American presidents?

We don't need to know about them, Grandma.

Oh...

It's an English school, we do Our Island Story.

Britannia rules the waves and all that.

Grandma, I'm in the Colts!

Oh, my!

I could bowl you out anytime.

GORDON: You?

I'd hit you for six!

Come on, then, let's see you try!

Children... Ma, watch me punish Violette's bowling.

I'll watch from the window, honey.

VIOLETTE: Give me the bat!

GORDON: Girls can't play cricket!

Those kids are more English every day.

I guess it's only to be expected.

I was thinking they could do with some time back in the States.

It'll remind them of who they are and where they came from.

Perhaps we could all go.

No, Rose, I can't see Harry dropping everything just to take you to Chicago.

Why not?

I dropped everything to come to London.

What?

I had a whole life in Chicago.

I'm just saying Harry should take his responsibilities to this family seriously, too.

I know things have been difficult for you lately... You don't know.

Believe me, I can guess.

But you've got to remember that deep down, Harry knows that he'd be lost without you.

Well, I shall set things in motion.

And he's invited us to the opening night of Tony's new play.

You'll bring Rose along, of course.

I'd be hugely honored, but I don't know if I can get Rose to come.

She has to come, Harry.

An offer like this can't be refused.

In any case, it would do you good to be seen in public with your wife more often, if you take my meaning.

Lord Loxley in good health?

How should I know?

I expect so.

He's in the country, of course.

And you're in town.

Well, naturally.

Miss Blenkinsop!

Get Crabb and Grove into my office.

We have big things to discuss.

The King is coming to Selfridge's!

Miss Blenkinsop, please, I am still waiting for my chance to speak with Mr. Selfridge.

I am doing my very best.

He is very busy today.

Hello, George.

Oh, very smart.

Inside man now.

Be running the place next.

Those the new serviettes?

Yeah, just come in.

Excellent, give me a hand laying 'em out if you like.

It's all right, Mr. Perez won't be in till 10:00.

How's Agnes, she all right?

Yeah, she's fine, Victor.

Has she mentioned me at all?

No, she hasn't, not lately.

Ah.

Victor, I've been wanting to ask you... Yeah?

You know Kitty Hawkins?

On Accessories?

What about her?

You think I might have a chance with her?

See, she's a bit high class.

She might think I was beneath her, that sort of thing.

I don't think Kitty's all that high class.

Have a go.

If you don't ask, you'll never know.

It's all right for you, Victor.

You know how to talk to girls.

I haven't had that much luck lately, George.

How do I go about it?

Take her some violets or something, or ask her if she wants to go for a walk with you or to the pictures.

It's simple.

No good mooning around being her secret admirer, she might never notice you.

Right... right.

Right!

So that's how you have to be if you like a girl.

Really determined.

You think?

It's a little radical, even for my taste.

Would His Majesty approve?

What do you think, Mr. LeClair?

Outrageous!

I am shocked to the core.

Excellent!

Please...

I was wondering whether I could borrow Miss Towler for a few minutes.

Mr. LeClair, I am not a lending library.

You borrow Miss Towler so often I'm afraid you're beginning to think she's your personal property.

Oh, no, she's her own woman.

Very much so.

I understand that.

A few minutes?

Go on, then.

Bring her back to me as good as new.

Follow me, Miss Towler.

So what do you want me for, then?

I wanted you to know... (sighs) I have been offered a position in New York.

And I've decided to take it.

With Miss Maurel's company?

Yes.

J. Walter Thompson.

I am to be the artistic director.

You know, you... You have to follow your heart, Henri.

You never lied to me about Valerie...

So I wish you all the luck in the world.

So, have you told Mr. Selfridge?

No, not yet.

He might not be as sanguine as you.

(laughs lightly) Thank you, Agnes.

It's been an honor to get to know you.

(whispering): Good-bye, Henri.

Checking as you go...

Excuse me.

George Towler, don't you look smart in your new uniform!

Got anything nice for us today?

(gasps) Oh, I say!

For me?

From you?

And what have I done to deserve these?

It's because I'm sweet on you, Kitty, and I was wondering, if you're not doing nothing Saturday night maybe me and you could go to the pictures.

Who's paying?

Oh, I am, Kitty.

Well, I don't mind if I do.

In the thruppennies, mind.

I'm not sitting down the front.

MISS MARDLE: Miss Hawkins.

Coming!

HARRY: Rose?

Rose!

(door opens) There you are.

I've got some great news.

Oh?

The King is coming to our store tomorrow evening.

Strictly confidential, of course.

You must feel very honored.

Well, I'm just not honored, we're all honored.

It's an honor for all of us.

If the King gives us his blessing, it opens up a whole new chapter for us.

I really need you there, honey.

I guess it really is my duty to be there.

Well, I was hoping that you'd want to be there as well.

I think that's a little too much to ask, Harry.

He's also asked us as his guests to a first night.

You don't seem very happy about it.

Ellen Love is in it.

And I would never ask you, except Lady Mae said you can't refuse a Royal's invitation.

You're really asking me to go and see your mistress in a play?

I don't see much of a choice, Rose.

This would mean everything to us.

To our family.

All right.

I'll go.

Well, hello there.

I haven't seen you all day.

Doris.

You really shouldn't have shown this off to everyone.

We had agreed to keep it a secret.

It was Kitty who let it slip.

What does it matter?

I'm going to be giving my notice in soon anyway, aren't I?

I'm going to be a kept woman.

My darling girl, you are so sweet.

But we can't talk like this on the floor.

You know that.

Now I must be off.

I shall see you tomorrow.

I don't know how to explain it, Josie.

Hetty's death affected me far more than I thought it ever could.

Well, that's only to be expected at first.

Please let me go on.

I was struck by this terrible sense of my own mortality, of dying without leaving something of myself behind.

I would gladly have borne you a child.

I always thought you were wedded to your work.

How little you men know what we women really long for.

But now, of course, it's too late for me.

Miss Miller, on the other hand... She has a true, kind heart, and she wants nothing more in life than to be someone's wife and mother.

And Doris can save me from the terror of dying without leaving any trace of me behind.

I hope you will be a good husband to her, Roger.

She will never know I loved another far, far more.

And did you, truly?

I did.

I do.

You are the love of my life.

Thank you for saying that.

Whether it's true or not, I shall always remember it.

Oh, Josie...

It needn't end like this, need it?

I don't understand.

We can still have our precious Tuesday evenings together.

Doris wouldn't know.

I would never hurt her unnecessarily.

I could tell her I spend one night a week at my club, as I always have done.

We needn't lose each other after all.

But it seems so wrong.

We know it is not wrong in our hearts.

To me, it is.

And I could never do that to Doris.

She'll never know.

Yes, but I will.

I'd like you to leave now, please, Roger.

If that's how you feel.

Good night, Josie.

(sobbing) All right, ladies, let me see your curtseys.

After a count of three: one, two, three!

No, no, no, no, no.

It's more a sort of a... Well, keep practicing.

Practice makes perfect.

What about them, Mr. Crabb?

CRABB: Yes, I see.

A curtsey doesn't look quite right in knickerbockers, does it?

You can do a boy's bow.

Like this.

(giggling) Yes, all right.

Well, carry on.

I'm sure it'll be fine on the night.

(door opening) Ah, good.

How are the windows coming along?

They are coming along very well, of course.

Harry... Regal, but not too ostentatious.

We want them to look splendid, but not like we made a special effort.

Yes, I've got it.

Harry, I need to tell you something.

What is it?

I truly regret that I must tender my resignation.

(laughs) I don't believe it.

I've been offered a job in New York.

I've decided to take it.

I'm sorry.

Henri, this is our finest moment.

The King himself is visiting our store this very day.

You think that now is a good time to do this?

With something like this, no time is a good time, Harry.

New York, J. Walter Thompson.

I can spread my wings there.

I'll double your salary.

It's not about the money.

What the hell is it about?

Some woman?

One particular woman, and you know her.

And also my need to prove something to myself, that I can be the best without you, Harry.

You do this to me now?

I'll stay till my replacement arrives, of course.

Don't bother.

Just finish the window and go.

What, that's it?

Well... Good-bye, then.

I wish you all you wish yourself, my friend.

Well, Mr. Selfridge, you have built a palace here, and one far better furnished than any of mine.

Oh, I wouldn't go quite that far, Your Majesty.

Tell me, what was it like for you setting out anew, an American in London?

Did you encounter much opposition?

I had some troubles winning round the press at first, but as far as the British public, Sir, they'll always give a man a fair chance to prove himself.

Well, I am glad you share my opinions.

And of course, I took my tips from Lady Loxley here.

And tell me, Mrs. Selfridge, are you settling in quite well?

I am.

Quite well, Your Majesty.

Well, London has a lot to offer.

As we shall no doubt see later this evening at the theater.

Ah.

That's a wonderful wife you have, Mr. Selfridge.

Now, speaking of the ladies, where might I buy a present for a rather special one?

Buy?

Sir, we would never... Oh, no, I have brought money.

All part of the experience.

I have never been shopping in my life.

(polite laughter) This is the way the world is going.

And you have brought that world to London, Mr. Selfridge.

We're all on your coattails.

What charming assistants!

What do you suggest I buy?

Something frothy and delicious?

(chuckling nervously) What about this brooch shaped like a dog, Your Majesty?

Oh, well, now, that's excellent!

She loves her dogs.

Will this be enough?

Oh, quite enough, Sir.

We'll sort things out later with your equerry.

Have you ever seen such a big tummy?

(laughing) I haven't had this much fun in a long time.

You may now tell your friends that your King is a man of the people.

I'm sure I'll have plenty to tell them, Your Majesty.

Why don't you come down to Sandringham this Saturday?

Thank you, Your Majesty.

Very kind of you.

I have to congratulate you again, Mr. Selfridge, on your enchanting store.

An impressive achievement...

Thought you were coming up for a bit of birthday cake.

Am I too late?

Palm Court, half an hour.

All right?

All right.

Oh, Victor!

It's lovely.

Table for one, Miss?

Yes, please.

Happy birthday.

Better late than never, eh?

Much better.

(laughs) So...

Here we are again, then.

Yes.

Could I get you a drink, Miss?

Now, if I recall... Miss is partial to a small sherry of an evening?

(laughs) Thank you.

I don't mind if I do.

(glass clinking) Delicioso!

(laughing): Very good!

Remember what we talked about the last time?

You told me you were going to get your own restaurant.

Still haven't got it.

(laughs) And you know what?

I don't mind.

There's more important things than that.

And you said, uh, I was a bit special.

And I still think that.

You are.

And you asked me to dance, and I wouldn't.

Too shy.

What would you say if I was to ask you now?

Why don't you find out?

May I have this dance, Miss Towler?

Delighted, Mr. Colleano.

(waltz music playing) (crowd chatting) Who is it?

An old friend.

Evening, Selfridge.

Travers.

Good luck for tonight.

Frank, good to see you!

Why don't you join our box to see the show?

Seen it already old boy.

Been helping Tony out with a spot of dialogue.

Maybe we can grab a drink soon.

Wasn't there something you wanted to discuss?

No, I'm off to Paris in the morning.

I won't be back in London for a while.

Oh.

Enjoy the show.

And just bear in mind, Harry: you reap what you sow.

Come on, Travers, there's a good chap.

Five minutes, Ellen.

(door closes) I just wanted to wish you good luck for tonight.

Thank you, Harry.

I would hate it if there was any hard feelings between us.

(sighs) None on my part.

Harry... You're not going to like the play, not one bit.

Oh, come on, of course I will.

You're in it!

Well, just remember, it is only a play.

(knocking) MAN: Three minutes, Miss Love!

Good luck.

Do you know what it's all about, Pa?

I can't say that I do, but I understand it's very modern and updated.

Let's hope Travers writes better than he plays poker.

Are you sure it's suitable for young people, son?

It'll probably go right over our heads, let alone Rosalie's, Ma.

What does "satirical"mean?

LOIS: It's kind of sarcastic.

A bit like Violette, when she's talking to us.

(trumpet playing fanfare) LADY MAE: That's the Royal seal of approval, Harry.

The entire audience will have caught that nod.

(orchestra playing jaunty music) Oh, hello.

Hello.

Are you waiting to see Lady Lushington?

Yes, I am.

Sometimes it seems I've spent my whole life waiting for Lady Lushington.

(audience laughing) She's my patron, you know.

Oh?

And what does that entail?

A great deal more than I bargained for.

(audience laughing) Look out, here she comes.

(audience laughing) Ah, Maurice!

A little early to be on the scrounge, isn't it?

(audience laughing) And you must be little Jilly Pomfret.

Yes, hello.

Hmm... Is Lord Lushington in town?

Lord Lushington is in the country.

He generally is when I'm in town.

And when he's in town, I'm generally in the country.

Secret of a happy marriage.

I recommend it.

(audience laughing) Oh, how did we get mixed up with these awful people, Maurice?

Oh, no, here comes old Horace Spendrich.

Look at me!

Used to be dirt poor.

We had nothing, me and my poor old ma!

Pa never came home from the war, but we got by, and look at me now, huh?

Richest man in town, and they can't get enough of me!

Hello, honey!

(screaming) (audience laughing) MAURICE: He spends his life chasing chorus girls when all the time his wife is going about with a young painter.

(audience laughing) SPENDRICH: Hello, sweetheart!

I'm coming after you!

Aw, c'mon!

Who the heck loves me?

(audience laughing) Nobody loves you, Horace.

(audience laughing) They just love your money.

(audience laughing) Darling, let's leave it all behind!

Oh yes, let's!

To hell with the rotten world the grown-ups have made for us.

Together we can build a new world of our own!

(applause) (cheering and whistling) It's only a silly play, Harry.

I dare say we've both survived much worse.

Rosalie!

(applause continues) My dear Mrs. Selfridge, please try not to worry.

I shall see to it that this play closes within a week.

Good night.

Good evening, Sir, Mrs. Selfridge, Madam Selfridge.

Was the play to your taste?

Not altogether, Fraser.

But it was an interesting evening.

LOIS: It's long past our bedtime.

Shall we go up?

I'm not a child anymore, Grandma, not after what I've heard and seen tonight!

Why didn't you tell me?

Mother, I'd still have hated you but at least I'd have understood!

I think I'll go to bed now, too.

Stay.

No, if you don't mind.

I need a little time alone.

Rose, we can get through this.

Like Lady Mae said, it's just a silly play.

But it was the truth.

When I saw Rosalie tonight in the theater...

I just wanted to sink through the floor.

I felt so guilty and ashamed of myself.

You and the children are everything to me.

I'm lost without you.

You always say that, Harry.

So... where does it stand between you and me?

I don't know.

Are you going to leave me?

Harry...

I have to go into the store tomorrow and face all those people at 9:00 a.m., and I don't think that I could do it if I didn't know I was coming home to you.

Then why do you need other women?

I don't.

I'm just a...

I'm just a damn fool.

That's all, and that's the truth.

I'm sorry, Harry.

We're leaving for Chicago.

(engine idling) Mr. Selfridge!

Anything to say about the play?

No comment, no comment.

Are you going to sue for libel?

(elevator bell dings) Good morning, Mr. Selfridge.

I guess you've read the papers, Crabb, like everyone else.

I have, Mr. Selfridge.

Heavy rain is forecast, so we're bringing forward umbrellas and rainwear.

If I might say, Mr. Selfridge...

These things pass, you know.

Thank you, Crabb.

(sighs) GORDON: Good-bye!

Good-bye!

♫♫ ♫♫ (sighs) ♫♫ (clattering) Oh, sorry, Mr. Selfridge.

George Towler, right?

That's right, Mr. Selfridge.

I used to do your job once upon a time.

Remember that.

So you mean I could be like you one day?

You don't want to be like me, George.

But you've got everything, Mr. Selfridge.

All this.

And a lovely family, too.

Good night, Mr. Towler.

Keep up the good work.

Home safe, Mr. Selfridge.

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