Episode 8

Aren't we treating him rather poorly?

Do you want to be back where you started, Mr. Edwards?

I can take away your column as easily as I gave it.

Monsieur Leclair has returned to us.

AGNES: I was just telling Monsieur Leclair

about our engagement, Victor.

FLORIAN: You of all people deserve to be loved.

I think Harry needs a little stardust.

What on earth are you talking about?

I think she might be able

to help me get the store out of this mess.

"Mr. Selfridge," tonight on Masterpiece.

Captioning sponsored by VIEWERS LIKE YOU

♫♫

(sighing)

Florian.

Florian, it's already light.

We must have fallen asleep.

Go.

Before the rest of the house wakes up.

I've got a meeting with my lawyers this morning.

Maybe they can persuade the press to see reason.

I can't believe they still won't print

your side of the story.

Well, why would they be interested in the truth

when the lies sell more papers?

It's my female customers who are deserting me because of it.

I need to find some way of bringing them back.

You know I've asked Delphine

to come in and discuss strategy at the store today.

I'd love for you to be there too.

Are you sure you can't join us, Rose?

I'm sorry, Harry.

I'd really love to help,

but I have an appointment this morning.

Then I suppose I will just have to struggle on alone.

But if you want my advice, I'd just keep things simple.

In times of trouble,

people need something they can depend on.

Well, I'll be...

What is it?

Here in "Town Talk."

They're saying that Mae has left Loxley.

(gasps)

Morning, Miss.

Good morning.

All for you, as usual.

There may still yet be word from George.

Missing does not mean he's...

It's been less than three weeks, my dear.

We mustn't give up hope.

Well?

Still dripping.

But now at least I think I know why.

It's so nice to have a gentleman around the house.

HARRY: I still have my reservations about seeing Mae.

She's just walked out on Loxley, Harry.

Doesn't that strike you as strange?

Why should I trust her again after what she did?

But what if there's more to it?

I felt as betrayed as you,

but what she did seemed out of character.

She's been such a loyal friend to us in the past.

(sighs)

I'll see her, but you know how I feel about this.

Just hear what she has to say, please?

MISS MARDLE: I still think that working in a factory

is a waste of your talents.

If it helps the war effort, I'm happy to do it.

Music can wait.

Well, if you're going to sweat and strain all day,

then you must at least eat a decent lunch.

They pay me a fair wage, Josie.

I have money.

Here.

Please take it.

Thank you.

No!

(sighs)

Well, I'm not giving this to Mr. Grove.

I don't want to resign, Miss Hawkins.

I love it here.

But my father's insisting.

Says he won't have me working here no more.

That Mr. Selfridge is a friend of the Kaiser!

Stuff and nonsense!

If there's a bigger patriot in this store, I'll eat my hat.

But what with the papers and all...

You don't want to believe everything you read.

And neither does your father.

But what should I do?

Tell him you've given the letter to me

and that you've got to work

a week's notice.

Then what?

You leave that to me.

The scandal is still hurting us.

Only this week,

seven more influential female customers

have closed their accounts.

We must act now.

We need to make this store the talk of the town again,

but for all the right reasons.

Delphine's is on the up

because we offer people an escape.

Let's entertain them, Harry!

Just like you've always done.

What exactly did you have in mind?

We bring the spirit of Delphine's to Selfridge's.

We recreate the club in the Palm Court.

Give me 24 hours and I will

fill the place to the rafters.

If you get the right people in,

then the rest will follow.

Let us hope so.

Although Selfridge's is

a rather different beast to a... nightclub.

Well, I think it's a great idea.

Thank you.

HENRI: I have another proposal which may aid us.

I've heard Winifred Bonfils Black is in London.

The journalist?

I met her a few times in New York.

Her articles are syndicated everywhere.

She'd be the perfect person to write about our new promotion.

Winifred's... she's a one-off.

DELPHINE: If by that you mean she's trouble,

then I'd be forced to agree.

We would have a tiger by the tail.

But when she speaks, women listen.

Which is exactly why it is such a risk.

SELFRIDGE: Well, but one we have to take.

I have faith in my store.

Henri, invite her to lunch.

If you can't charm her, no one can.

Thank you all very much.

Kitty!

I was surprised to get your call.

Have you read this?

"Rumors of a separation

between Lord and Lady Loxley continue."

What of it?

Well, why would she leave him?

We've all met the man.

(whispering): Yes, but why now?

Just as this scandal breaks out?

Maybe she's telling the world

that Loxley is to blame for all of this.

(whispering): Or maybe it's just a coincidence.

Well, I hope you're going to investigate it.

Miss Pertree handed in her notice today.

Her father read your article

and insisted she leave the store immediately.

I'm sorry to hear that.

It's a matter of integrity.

If Loxley is behind this, then you need to prove it.

Put the truth out there in black and white

so that everyone can see it.

It's not that simple, Kitty.

You owe it to Mr. Selfridge to put this right.

FRANK: Come on, Jameson, think about it!

Loxley rang me with the story.

What if he planned all this

to divert attention from himself?

If he's manipulating both of us,

we have an obligation to investigate.

Taking on Harry Selfridge is one thing.

Attacking the government?

I may be mad, Frank, but I'm not crazy.

You know, I thought you'd say that.

Which is why I brought you this.

I'm resigning from my column.

If I can't write the truth, I won't write at all.

MISS PLUNKETT: I'll see if he is available.

One moment, please.

I'm sorry, Mr. Selfridge.

Frank Edwards is on the telephone.

I have nothing to say to him.

Please tell him not to call again.

Very good, Mr. Selfridge.

We'll start with the larger pieces over here

framing the space.

I thought you should know what was being planned.

Well, it's different, I'll say that.

This your idea?

Direct from Mr. Selfridge.

And Miss Day, of course.

Bringing the spirit of Delphine's to the Palm Court.

An Arabian theme, I understand.

As long as they don't expect Franco to do a belly dance.

(laughs)

No word from your George?

Not yet.

I should get back.

There's a new window to finish for tomorrow.

Monsieur Leclair said he would give me some advice.

And how long have you had these symptoms?

I'd say three, four months.

Perhaps more.

And the difficulty in breathing?

The same.

I'm sure I'm wasting your valuable time, doctor.

It's just the last few weeks, I've had so little energy.

I thought some kind of tonic would help.

Perhaps so.

But first, I should like to examine you,

if you have no objections.

Of course.

(knocking)

Come.

You wanted to see me?

Please sit down.

(sighing)

What I witnessed this morning

was unbecoming of an employee of Selfridge's

and frankly embarrassing.

This affair has gone too far.

I have done my utmost to persuade you to end it

in a dignified fashion,

but you seem determined to ignore me.

As a result, you have been humiliated.

I had hoped you would come to realize that financial gain

is the likely motive for this boy's apparent infatuation.

That is a despicable suggestion.

And yet this morning,

I saw him receiving money from you with my own eyes.

Could it be any clearer?

You are being taken for a fool, Miss Mardle.

An old fool!

If you're quite finished, then I will reply.

My life is my own, Mr. Grove.

How I choose to live it is my business.

And I would ask you in future

to keep both your opinions and your insults

to yourself.

(sobbing)

One Manhattan, madame.

And I should charge this to...?

Harry Selfridge, of course!

Winifred Black.

Thank you so much for coming to see me.

The pleasure is all yours.

(laughs)

And Monsieur Leclair.

It's been too long.

Miss Black.

I got your message practically insisting I pay you a visit,

which made me think you want something from me.

Am I that transparent?

Oh, I find that men usually are.

It's one of life's constant disappointments.

I see that my Fleet Street colleagues

have been giving you a rough ride.

Damn lies.

But mud sticks.

We need some good publicity.

An article by you would be a fantastic start.

I don't do puff pieces.

My readers rely on me for the unvarnished truth.

Which is what we want you to write.

You have integrity and so do I,

and I am confident that my store will speak for itself.

Monsieur Leclair will give you all the access you need.

Here's how it works.

You give me carte blanche to look around

and talk to your staff.

If I find a story that inspires me,

maybe I'll write it.

It's a deal.

Let's hope you don't live to regret it.

(chuckles)

It was brave of you to leave him.

I couldn't live with him a moment longer.

Anyway, I'm very glad that you called, Mr. Edwards.

I presume this is about Harry Selfridge?

I want to get to the bottom of this wretched business,

but Harry won't take my calls.

Understandable, I suppose.

And there's no point in a direct approach to the Committee.

They'll only close ranks.

Well then, perhaps we should find the weakest link.

Lord Edgerton and Loxley, they were at school together.

Now, Miles had certain peccadilloes even then,

and let's just say he's never grown out of them.

What are you saying?

I overheard Loxley blackmail Edgerton

for a seat on the Procurement Committee.

This was all planned, Mr. Edwards,

right from the very start.

And now Harry's taking the rap for it.

Exactly.

And if he won't help himself, then we must do it for him.

And this is our fashion department.

Aha!

And indeed our head of fashion,

Mr. Thackeray.

Mr. Thackeray,

may I introduce Winifred Black?

She's a journalist.

Bien sur.

Your reputation precedes you.

Mrs. Black is writing about the store.

You know I'm one of your greatest admirers?

As I'm sure Mr. Leclair has told you,

female fashion is at the very heart of this store.

I flatter myself that where our department leads,

the others follow.

I could show you around personally?

Very kind,

but I like to find my own way.

It's the only way to get under the skin of a place.

Of course.

You have your particular methods.

But if you need anything, you simply have to ask.

Noted.

Thank you.

And it's Thackeray

with an "A-Y."

A common error, sadly.

Well, there's a man who'd sell his own grandmother

for a quarter and a smile.

So you know him already?

Am I wrong?

Rose.

Delphine.

I didn't expect to see you at the store today.

I just need to talk to Harry about something.

Oh, I think he's left.

I saw him walk out a few minutes ago.

Oh.

Well, I'm sure I'll catch him at home tonight.

I should probably...

No, don't go.

I feel like we haven't talked in a long time.

My ladies want a story they can identify with.

Something inspirational.

Then perhaps you should meet Miss Towler.

(spritzing and sniffing perfume)

DELPHINE: If I didn't know any better, I'd say you were avoiding me.

I was hoping to see you at our film night.

It's really nothing personal.

I've just been a little tired, that's all.

You do look rather pale, Rose.

Are you sure you're quite well?

Oh, it's nothing.

My doctor just diagnosed me with a little...

congestion on my chest.

I'm sure it's all down to the city smog.

Oh, dear.

Does Harry know?

Not yet, no.

It didn't seem fair to burden him with my troubles too.

You're probably right.

He doesn't need anything else to worry about.

You should have seen him this morning.

He looked like he had

the weight of the world on his shoulders.

What you need, Rose,

is a break.

You need to take some time in the country

and get your strength back.

SELFRIDGE: So the stories are true?

You left Loxley?

Something I should have done a long time ago.

Rats desert sinking ships.

I should not have vouched for Loxley.

And I should have spoken up when I first suspected.

But you chose not to.

Choice has very little to do with it.

When I married Loxley, I knew he had few scruples,

but I thought I could control him.

Being married to such a powerful man,

that was intoxicating.

But I was just...

I was a naive young girl.

Why did you vouch for him?

Loxley is...

a violent man.

Why didn't you say something?

Because I was ashamed.

I am ashamed.

And scared.

We have to stop him.

I believe he means you harm,

and you don't know what else he's capable of.

I'm beginning to understand.

It's not safe for you here.

You're to come homewith me.

And stay as long as you need to.

These are exquisite.

How long have you worked here?

Since the first day that we opened.

I, um, had to leave my previous post.

There was a misunderstanding.

Actually, I suppose it was Mr. Selfridge's fault,

so I went to his house and asked for a job.

(laughing)

You just marched right in there?

I can't believe I actually did it.

You are clearly a young woman who makes her own fortune.

I work hard, but it was Monsieur Leclair

who taught me everything I know.

Aha!

A protégé?

With the help of Mr. Selfridge, of course.

He was the one who sent Miss Towler to Paris.

I expect that little trip opened your eyes?

Oh, it did.

The Moulin Rouge.

Quite shocking!

But I wouldn't have missed it for the world.

Miss Towler always had a natural talent.

It just needed to blossom.

I imagine you two make quite a team?

What is your article about?

Oh, I have no earthly idea what it's about.

But I find that if you look hard enough at something,

a story usually appears.

You're getting married?

Oh, um, to Victor.

He manages the Palm Court.

Harry Selfridge: employer and matchmaker.

(laughing)

Your parents must be very proud.

Well, it's just me and my brother George.

It's always just been the two of us, really.

Is he fighting?

He's missing in action.

Oh.

But I'm sure he'll be back.

(footsteps approaching)

Excuse me.

Mr. Colleano?

I wanted to talk to you about Miss Towler.

There is still no word from her brother?

Nothing.

After three weeks.

I'm concerned that she's convincing herself

he's still alive.

Maybe that's her way of dealing with it.

Her way of getting through it.

You know her best.

If you've got something to say, Mr. Leclair,

say it to my face.

I'm not going to fight you.

Now, you listen to me.

I've been there for Agnes right through this,

day and night.

I'm offering her more than you ever have.

A family, a future, something real.

Something she can hold on to.

You wanted to see me, Mr. Selfridge?

Ah, Miss Plunkett.

You should know that my family

will be arriving from the States soon.

I'm afraid it's going to require a little more work on your part.

My girls can be... rather demanding.

I see.

I hope that won't be a problem.

My previous secretary Miss Blenkinsop

always managed to wrangle them somehow.

I'm sure I'll be able to cope, Mr. Selfridge.

Miss Plunkett, meet Miss Blenkinsop,

my former secretary and your new colleague.

Miss Blenkinsop had to leave for personal reasons,

but she's now going to be rejoining...

Am I being replaced?

Not replaced-- assisted.

Miss Blenkinsop will be my new social secretary.

And you'll deal with all store business.

I'm sure we can find a way to work together.

ROSE: Oh, Mae, do you know,

I sensed something was wrong weeks ago.

You weren't yourself, but I was so distracted

with everything that was going on...

No, no, no.

I thought I could deal with Loxley alone.

I was wrong.

Well, you're here now, you and Pimble,

safe and sound.

I only wish I was going to be able

to spend more time with you.

Are you leaving?

Once the girls are settled, yes.

I'm planning on spending a few weeks on the coast.

Is everything all right?

Fine.

I went to see the doctor today.

Just mild congestion of the lungs.

But Delphine suggested

that it would do me the world of good

to get out of the city for a while.

Are you sure about this, Rose?

You'd be leaving Harry at a time when he needs your support

more than ever.

I really don't want to be a burden to Harry.

No, I think Delphine's right.

It just wouldn't be fair.

SELFRIDGE: You've done a great job.

Well, we're a fantastic team, Harry.

And you are a fascinating man.

People might think you do this for the money,

but I don't think that's what it is at all.

And what is my motivation?

You just love to give people what they want,

even if they don't know it themselves.

We're the same,

you and I,

which is why all this doesn't have to stop now.

With all due respect to Monsieur Leclair,

I believe what you need is a female vision

across the whole store,

not just for a couple of days.

I find my wife does that very well.

But perhaps you have someone in mind?

Trust me, Harry.

We should work together, you and I, side by side.

You won't regret it.

(playfully): What are you doing here?

I didn't know you were back already!

Oh, uh...

Sorry.

(crying)

For a moment, I really thought it was him.

I thought it was George.

And then he turned...

(sobbing)

What will I do, Victor?

What will I do if he's gone?

Now, you listen to me.

Whatever the truth, whatever happens,

we're going to face it together, you and me.

Side by side, man and wife.

Come here.

You need your family around you at times like this.

It's late.

You need to eat.

I'll cook us an Uncle Gio special.

(laughs)

Come on, let's go.

I can't.

I've got my window to finish.

All right.

But if you're not back at Miss Mardle's

in the next couple of hours,

I'll drag you out of here myself.

FRANK: Lord Edgerton, I have it on good authority

that you were blackmailed by Loxley.

Me?

Blackmailed?

That is an outrageous suggestion!

My information comes from an impeccable source.

What do you want from me, Mr. Edwards?

Your cooperation.

Give me the evidence I need to bring Loxley down.

I want him behind bars, where he belongs.

If Edgerton admits to being blackmailed,

Loxley will be thoroughly discredited

and Harry will be in the clear.

The truth must come out.

And it's down to you, Miss Hawkins.

Well, I'm glad to be of service, I'm sure.

What about Miss Pertree?

No, I just need a few more days.

Which she doesn't have!

So as usual, I'll just have to deal with it myself.

Oh, goodness!

You startled me.

I'm impressed.

It's everything you said it would be.

It's not even nearly finished.

Art is never finished,

merely abandoned.

On which subject, I'm here to say goodbye.

You're leaving?

I've written my story.

There's nothing like a deadline to sharpen the mind.

Speaking of which,

when is your wedding?

We haven't set a date yet.

I must say I'm surprised you would give this all up

after you've worked so hard for it.

If you met Victor, you might think differently.

I've been down the aisle twice.

Both times, it was my dream come true.

Victor is offering me a home and a family,

which is all I've ever wanted.

And yet here you are, alone and hard at work.

Do you think it's wrong to choose love over a career?

(laughs)

My dear, it doesn't matter a jot what I think.

I've finished my story, and it's a good one.

The shop girl who shines like the stars.

Thank you, ladies, I'll see you tomorrow.

Thank you, Miss Day.

Well, I always thought the cuckoo

didn't need to build its own nest.

If that's meant to be cutting,

you'll have to do better.

I was simply helping Harry with some store promotion.

I know what you said to Rose Selfridge today.

Rose is a dear friend.

I was simply trying to give her some... good advice.

To leave town so that you can steal her husband?

What an utterly ludicrous suggestion.

Is it?

Oh, Delphine,

I've met so many women like you before:

the ones who'll do anything for the lead role or the solo

while all the time pretending to be your best friend.

It might fool Rose,

but it certainly doesn't fool me.

Please don't compare me to your music hall trollops.

Who the hell are you to lecture me?

I've read the papers, Mae.

What are you without Loxley's money?

You're just some disgraced divorcée

without two pennies to your name.

Oh, you might have Selfridge's ear today,

but how long do you think they're going to stand by you

when Loxley starts dragging your name

through the dirt?

I'll take my chance.

Because unlike you, I know who my real friends are.

And we disgraced divorcées,

you know, we do have one advantage:

absolutely nothing to lose.

So here's your choice:

leave town,

or I'll tell Rose exactly what you're up to.

This isn't quite what I was expecting.

It's what I promised:

2,000 words, no puff pieces.

"With her combination of gritty determination and cool elegance,

Miss Agnes Towler is Selfridge's new rising star."

You found her, you trained her.

But I thought Delphine's promotion

would be of more interest to you.

By making your staff part of the store,

you've transformed their lives.

You want to appeal to real women?

Let them read this

and see what you stand for.

You don't need to dazzle them, Harry.

Just hold up a mirror and let them see themselves.

The tap is fixed.

Wonderful.

Thank you, Florian.

Is something wrong?

No, no, nothing.

I have a slight headache.

I fact, I think I should go to bed.

Good night, Agnes.

Good night.

Good night.

(knocking)

See, Aggie?

I always keep my promises.

I thought I'd lost you!

Bullet took me in the shoulder.

Doctor said another few inches,

I would have been six feet under.

The hospital sounds awful.

No.

Not too pretty.

Engaged!

I can't leave you for a minute!

Our own little restaurant, me and Victor.

If we're to be married, we've got to look to the future.

Funny.

I thought you had yours all figured out.

Well, I fell in love, George.

You can't plan for that.

True enough.

As long as Mr. Colleano

promises to keep you in the style you've become accustomed.

(laughs)

Goodness, that went down quickly!

Another egg, George?

You've twisted my arm.

Have you seen this article on Miss Towler?

Say what you will about Winifred,

but she knows how to tug at the heartstrings.

(door slams)

FRASER: I must insist, sir!

LOXLEY: Where is she?

You can't come in here like that!

I demand to see my wife!

I'm so sorry, Mr. Selfridge!

What on earth is going on here?

It's none of your business, Selfridge.

I'm here for Mae.

I've had enough of this nonsense.

You're coming home with me now.

Mae is our guest,

and she will remain here until she chooses to leave.

Do you think Frank Edwards scares me?

Miles Edgerton knows

which side his bread is buttered on.

Who do you think he came running to

the minute Edwards accosted him?

Old school tie, Mae.

Never underestimate it.

Now, come on!

Stop there, Loxley.

Step aside, Selfridge.

This has nothing to do with you.

What are you going to do about it?

Hit me the way you hit her?

If you want to take me on, we can do it right here.

And believe me,

there is nothing in the world I want more

than to smash your smug little face

into the middle of next week!

So what's it going to be?

I will drag you through the courts.

I will make sure my lawyers rake through the details

of every half-remembered adulterous afternoon.

Believe me, Mae, by the time I've finished with you,

you will wish you were dead and buried.

GRACE: Can you believe it?

That bit there...

(laughing)

How are we this morning, ladies?

Look, Miss Hawkins!

The article is all about Miss Towler!

"The Star of Selfridge's."

Well, I never.

Quick, Jessie, come with me!

There's a certain person who needs to see this.

Who is it?

Just wait and see.

Thank you, Harry.

But he won't be satisfied now

until he's completely destroyed both of us.

I can help you.

And so can Frank Edwards.

Please, we have to stop him together.

Frank's been trying to contact me.

I'll call him and we'll set up a meeting.

Now I have to get to the store.

Oh, of course.

Harry, um...

You've done so much for me,

and I really want to return the favor.

I know you've been working with Delphine Day.

She's been acting as an advisor.

Yes.

Please don't trust her.

She's out to destroy everything

that you and Rose have.

Not one single mention of fashion.

It's a disgrace.

But the article itself, Mr. Thackeray!

A tour de force!

One could hardly have asked for better publicity.

Good morning, everyone.

I'm sure you've read Mrs. Black's article.

Please join me in a round of applause for Miss Agnes Towler.

(applause)

And I'm sure you all have heard

that George Towler has returned home safe.

Our prayers have been answered: a family reunited.

And on that note,

I believe that Mr. Grove has some news for us.

Come on up here, Mr. Grove.

Thank you, Chief.

I, um...

Well, Doris...

Uh, Mrs. Grove and I

have had our fourth baby,

a healthy baby boy.

I have a son.

Congratulations, Roger.

(all offering congratulations)

Merci, Henri.

Oh, I say!

Told him straight, she did.

Showed my dad the paper

and said what a wonderful opportunity I'd be passing up.

No!

(laughing with delight)

So you'll stay!

Thank you very much.

Thank you very much.

Goodbye.

Miss Mardle.

You have my congratulations, Mr. Grove.

I know you always dreamed of having a son.

Thank you.

Please pass on my best wishes to Mrs. Grove.

"The girl who rose from humble and difficult beginnings

"to mastermind and create

"the most wondrous visual displays

in the most prestigious department store in the world."

I feel like I should be asking for your autograph,

not your hand in marriage.

Stop it!

It's just an article.

She could have chosen anyone.

But she chose you.

Can't say I blame her.

You deserve it.

I'm proud of you.

How's your George shaping up?

Like he's never been away!

He's eating Miss Mardle out of house and home.

I've been thinking.

If George really has to go back,

maybe we should use him while we still have him.

I mean, I am going to need a best man.

Oh!

Uh, get married now?

Why not?

We can organize it in a few days.

The family are all here with George here.

There's nothing to stop us.

No.

What do you say?

In a fortnight's time, you could be Mrs. Colleano.

SELFRIDGE: Nothing to fear.

I'm sure Delphine

will have the Palm Court crammed by now.

MR. CRABB: I wish I shared your confidence, Mr. Selfridge.

I do find rampant innovation a little trying.

Remember The Summer House, Mr. Crabb?

She proved you wrong then.

Indeed, and I'm sure she will again.

Huh...

Harry.

Uh...

Hmm...

I can make the Spirit of Delphine's work.

I just need you to give me a little bit more time.

Perhaps if we put our heads together on this?

We make such a good team.

No, my instinct is we need a new strategy.

Rose said as much.

I should have listened to her.

What do you mean?

Her instincts are

that in these times, we need to keep it simple.

I think what you need right now

is me.

Why is that?

Because I understand you, Harry.

I know what drives you.

Which is why I think in your heart of hearts...

you know we belong together.

I don't have feelings for you, Delphine.

I love my wife.

I've made mistakes in the past.

I've failed her many times.

If you really want to know what drives me,

it's Rose.

Everything I've ever done-- this store,

every brick, every counter--

it's all been for her.

One day, I hope you find someone

who feels the same about you.

But I'm not that man.

Goodbye, Delphine.

I doubt our paths will cross again.

(door closes)

You look tired.

I've had quite a day.

Kiss me.

Any particular reason?

Because I'm in love with you.

Is that good enough?

I can't think of a better one.

(young women giggling)

No!

I'm afraid so.

(laughing)

There they are!

Come here!

Good to see you!

Come here, Bea!

Ma!

Come here, family.

(all laughing)

(girls laughing)

(voice drowned out)

(laughing)

(children talking over each other)

Sorry?

I'm afraid we're a rowdy bunch tonight.

That's all right.

Would you please excuse me?

So many old friends to meet.

I'm going to the pictures.

Me too.

Can I come?

Pa, make them take me with them.

Gordon, take your sister.

Go on, do it for me.

ROSE: Everyone, it is Thanksgiving

in a couple of days,

and I want us to sit down together

for an entire evening as a family.

We're going to give thanks for our many blessings,

just as we've always done.

All right?

This place'll be heaving with customers

by the time you and Agnes work your magic here.

It's going to need a spruce-up

before the wedding, that's for sure.

Mr. and Mrs. Colleano, eh?

Not long now.

(clock chiming the hour)

What have I done to offend you?

We can't be together anymore, Florian.

It's wrong.

Who says it's wrong?

I'm too old for you.

There's no future in it.

You decide this without even discussing with me?

I have your interests at heart, please know that.

What I do know is we made each other happy.

I know I love you.

You don't decide that for me.

Ready?

Ready.

It's going to feel really odd, though.

Do you think Mr. Selfridge will understand us

handing our notice in so suddenly?

He knows I'd want George at my wedding.

Army doctor says that his arm is on the mend,

so he'll be back at the Front in no time.

You'll have me to share your worries with, Agnes.

Actually, he's going to come into the store today.

He says he feels ready to now.

The American Embassy advises me

that all charges have been dropped.

I'm a free man.

I'm so happy for you, Henri.

Congratulations.

Thank you.

The Selfridge name will be cleared too.

You'll see.

Sure, son.

Now that I'm free to travel,

I have to go and sign up to fight.

It's the right thing to do.

I'll be sorry to see you go, but of course I understand.

Miss Plunkett,

I was unaware that Mr. Selfridge

was due to meet Frank Edwards tonight.

Really?

I need some of his evenings for social engagements.

I don't see any available for the next month.

If I get to the diary faster than you,

then that's your look out, Miss Blenkinsop.

(gasps)

Ow!

Is everything all right, Miss Mardle?

Mind your own business!

That was rude of me.

I am terribly sorry, Miss Calthorpe.

Please excuse me.

Of course.

Everyone's entitled to a bad day.

Is that what I'm having?

Well, you do seem a bit out of sorts.

Yes, I suppose I am rather.

My mom's not like other people.

She says a problem shared is a problem doubled.

But she also says,

"When in doubt, do something."

Even if it's the wrong thing,

at least you'll be making a decision.

Yes, thank you, Miss Calthorpe.

Going anywhere nice, Rose?

Oh, just out and about.

I'll come with you if you like.

I could do with some air.

I have a lot of errands to run today.

Very boring.

But I'd love to walk with you later.

Miss Towler and Mr. Colleano to see you, sir.

And Frank Edwards has confirmed tonight's meeting.

We want to get married, Mr. Selfridge,

while George is still here to give me away.

So we're both handing in our notice.

You're leaving?

We'll inform Mr. Grove now.

Miss Towler felt you should know first.

I know this seems sudden,

but war has a way of quickening one's step.

Thank you, Mr. Selfridge.

For everything.

You'll be sorely missed, Mr. Colleano.

Miss Towler, could I have a minute, please?

(door closes)

I know it's this country's policy

that married women give up work,

but I'm willing to bend the rules for you.

Thank you.

But, um, I'm not just joining a family;

I'm joining a family business.

A family business.

Has a nice ring to it.

Not like Selfridge's, obviously, but...

I need to put my whole heart into it

for Mr. Colleano's sake.

I can't pretend it's not a sad day,

what with Mr. Leclair leaving and all.

Where's he going?

His name has been cleared.

He's going to fight for France.

Can I help you, Mr. Leclair?

You can, if you'll accept my apology.

Apology?

Miss Towler had to deal

with her brother being missing in her own way.

I spoke out of turn

and overstepped the mark as a concerned colleague.

I'm sorry.

I accept your apology.

I wanted to clear the air between us

before I join the French Army.

You're leaving?

Yes.

In a couple of days.

Before I go, I wanted to wish you and Miss Towler

every happiness and success in your life together.

Thank you, Mr. Leclair.

I hope you return safe and well.

I won't be coming back to Selfridge's.

Thank you for waiting,

Mrs. Selfridge.

Is that my X-ray plate?

It is, yes.

I've consulted with a colleague...

and, sadly, he confirms my diagnosis.

What do you mean?

I'm afraid there's no way to sweeten the pill.

It's not good news, Mrs. Selfridge.

George Towler!

Hello, Kitty.

(girls talking excitedly)

What did you do to your arm?

(excited talking continues)

CRABB: A pleasure, Private Towler.

Indeed, an honor.

Thank you, Sir.

We're extremely proud of you, young man.

Thank you, Mr. Grove.

We were so worried when you went missing.

Like a bad penny, Master Selfridge.

I'll always show up.

(laughing)

What was it like out there?

(talking excitedly)

My father would love to see you.

I can't believe he's back!

All right now, ladies, back to work.

(giggling)

I heard we've lost men,

Mr. Selfridge.

Throughout the store.

I've written letters to all their families,

so I'm very happy to see you

and to know that's not a letter I have to write.

It's hell out there.

Only they don't tell you that in the newspapers.

What kept you going?

The small things kept you going, Mr. Selfridge.

Letters, parcels from home.

Chocolate.

Clean, dry socks.

Baccy.

Cocoa.

The comforts of home.

Exactly that.

I'd open up your parcel, Aggie.

Straight into the jars of jam.

AGNES: You and your sweet tooth, George.

The tasting bit came after.

First, I'd get the jar

and put it up to my nose and breathe in.

Do you remember how we used to make jam

and chutney with Mother?

Our life of crime, Mr. Selfridge.

Robbing orchards.

I hope you didn't get caught, like I did.

(laughing)

Bedlam going on all around you.

Open a simple jar of jam,

close your eyes

and you're back in your mother's kitchen again.

A boy, all safe and warm.

I want to reflect your brother's words throughout the store.

The comforts of home.

The simple things.

I'll get started on a window straight away.

Your swan song.

Yes.

These have been the best five years of my life, Mr. Selfridge.

Just you make sure the rest of your life is equally as happy.

Miss Towler,

you've come to mean a great deal to me.

I want you to know that.

Thank you, Mr. Selfridge.

I'll miss you.

Are you all right, Mrs. Selfridge?

I'm fine, thank you, Fraser.

I need to discuss the Thanksgiving dinner with you.

I want you to think of something reassuring,

Mr. Thackeray.

Plain, old-fashioned breakfast tea.

A warm waterproof coat.

Talcum powder.

SELFRIDGE: Let some of the tea loose

so you get the aroma as you approach.

I'll put out the Mackintoshes immediately, Mr. Selfridge.

Miss Mardle?

Most women would make personal sacrifices

for a decent pair of gloves.

To give a pleasant scent

and to ease fingers into gloves

or stockings into shoes.

I can do a bigger promotion if you'd like?

One glove turned inside out on each set.

Keep it simple.

We are stoking memories, that's all.

Tell Cook that the girls

brought pecans back with them from Chicago,

so she just has to get the rest of the ingredients for the pies.

Actually, Fraser, just tell her I'll make them myself.

Certainly, Mrs. Selfridge.

You make your own pies?

Yes, pecan pies.

Huh.

The best in America, actually.

Sorry... Fraser?

I need to add pumpkins to that list.

We can't get sweet potatoes here.

Oh, and the ingredients for the corn bread...

This is going to be

the best Thanksgiving dinner ever.

Ever.

We'll put white cloths

on all the tables for the wedding.

That way we can use them again for the public.

And simple winter pansies in the center.

We could hang ivory silk bows all along that wall.

I'll do a suckling pig on a spit outside, George.

Right.

FRANCO: Two types of ale.

Pale and bitter.

Oh!

Sprinklings of pine needles on the floor

to give that lovely winter smell.

A bit of tender loving care and we'll be ready

to face the public, won't we, Victor?

Sorry?

I was just saying what we could do here.

Come on, Franco,

let's have a look upstairs at what can be done.

What's upstairs got to do with me?

You'll be the one painting it.

Oh!

Go on, get a move on.

I've got to get back to the store.

All right, George?

Penny for 'em?

There's just a lot on my mind.

Thinking about going back to the Front?

Just a lot of things.

I had a quiet word with some of the Procurement Committee,

and they back Loxley to the hilt.

Even Edgerton.

Well, there's a surprise.

FRANK: What we need is incontrovertible proof

that you did not recommend

the manufacturers Loxley says you did.

But what kind of proof?

Was anyone else party to the conversations you had?

No, I gave him a list.

"Use these suppliers.

On no account use those."

Was that list in your own handwriting?

Yes.

Normally I make copies,

but because you vouched for him, I didn't see the need.

That list will be long gone by now.

Oh, no, I think you underestimate

my husband's arrogance, Harry.

You think its possible that he still has it?

Well, if he does,

I'll find it.

SELFRIDGE: Well, be careful, Mae.

I don't want you putting yourself in danger

on my account.

No, don't worry.

I'll get Pimble to find out when he's not at home,

and then I'll go.

(knocking)

I've arranged an audition for you

with the Halle Orchestra in Manchester.

They have an excellent reputation.

I'll pay for your accommodations, of course.

I am not joining an orchestra when there's a war going on.

There are more useful things for me to do right now.

I thought you'd be pleased.

I'm not pleased.

Florian...

This is your house,

and maybe you think I have no right to ask,

but while I am still here,

please leave this room.

(door closes)

Henri.

I did not expect you back.

I, um...

I asked for homely things

for my window.

What's the idea?

Home.

The things that ground us.

A family making jam.

The results in the jars.

Deep, glossy colors like melted jewels.

(chuckling)

What's funny?

You.

Seeing jewels in jam.

Ordinary people think of the taste.

I am ordinary.

So it appears we're both leaving.

Funny to think of other people taking over our studio.

All the hours that we spent in here,

going half crazy looking for ideas.

Yeah.

Good times.

One last walk

in a London park at night.

Like we used to.

When we were together, remember?

I remember.

HENRI: How do we do this?

Just walk for hours, not saying anything much.

Just being.

This was our place.

When I was a girl,

I used to wake up in the middle of the night.

My mother was dying

and my father was drinking hard by then.

But for those few hours, it was quiet.

Just me and this great big city, asleep.

I bet you sat up, hugged your knees

and dreamed about what life would bring you.

Did you do that?

Yes, I did!

(laughing)

But it was all make-believe

until Mr. Selfridge came along.

He must have dreamed when he was a messenger boy.

He'll miss you.

He thinks the world of you.

He'll miss you.

Will you miss me?

Of course I will.

And you spare me a thought

when you're up to your neck in the restaurant, huh?

Maybe little Agneses and Victors pulling at your apron strings?

(laughing)

It's hard to imagine that right now.

I have one big wish for you, Agnes.

That all your dreams come true.

All over London,

people will be waking up in a few hours.

I'll never forget you, Agnes.

I'll never forget you, Henri.

(fire crackling)

(knocking)

Hello, George.

Just checking Agnes isn't working too late.

Or has she gone to bed?

She's not back yet, Victor.

Come in.

Have a cup of tea.

Miss Mardle and Mr. Dupont turned in for the night,

have they?

That's right.

I don't sleep so well.

Easier to sit up in a chair till I drop off.

Very late for Agnes to still be working.

I'm a bit worried about her.

What is it, Victor?

You're very close, the pair of you.

Is she going to be happy at the restaurant, George?

If she said that's what she wants,

then I'm sure she'll be happy.

Don't sound too sure.

Well, I'm not the one marrying you.

Why are you asking me?

Come on, George.

I could see you was wondering

whether the restaurant would be the right future for her.

Whether her talents would be wasted there.

We both know she's special.

She'll always be ordinary Agnes to me.

She's not ordinary.

Nothing wrong with that.

Most of us are.

But not Agnes.

I'm sure she loves you, Victor.

Course she does.

Why wouldn't she?

(chuckling)

All I know is she's always been there for me.

Loyal to her backbone.

She'll never let you down, Victor.

Florian, what are you doing here?

A letter arrived.

From the Halle Orchestra.

Well, won't you at least consider it?

Once they hear you play,

they'll accept you without another thought.

You are so anxious to get rid of me?

I only want what's best for you.

Surely you must see that?

Everything all right, Miss Mardle?

Perfectly all right, Mr. Grove.

I'm just resolving some household issues

with Mr. Dupont.

A household issue.

That is what I am to you, Josie?

No.

No, that's not how it is at all, Florian.

FLORIAN: Now you make us both lonely again.

Is that what's best for us?

Will you come and see me when you have a moment?

Have I done something wrong?

No.

I fear I have.

(knocking)

Come.

May we speak as true friends?

In spite of all that's passed between us,

I'd like to think we understand one another

better than most.

A true friend wouldn't have spoken to me

the way you did.

What a thing to say to a woman.

"Old fool."

I beg your forgiveness.

If anyone should wish you happiness, it should be me.

And I do, sincerely.

However, you have given me food for thought.

Florian is a young man.

A promising music career ahead of him.

He has no business with me.

He loves you, Josie.

I can see that from the way he looks at you.

It's no passing fancy.

But if I care for him, really care for him,

then I must let him go.

He may want children.

He thinks he loves me now.

But what about in five years' time,

ten years' time?

What about if one day, he...

Life is full of "what ifs."

This country is full of parents

bidding their sons goodbye,

wondering "what if"-- "What if I never see my son again?"

You've got the man you deserve.

Don't throw him away.

(door closes)

(birds chirping)

(clock chiming)

(door opens)

Miss Blenkinsop!

Where's Mr. Selfridge's diary?

I've no idea, Miss Plunkett.

You took it, didn't you?

Why would you do such a childish

and ridiculous thing?

We both have a job to do,

and you're making mine impossible!

I'm making it impossible?!

Ladies, please!

This is most unseemly.

What do you accuse Miss Blenkinsop of taking,

Miss Plunkett?

My diary for Mr. Selfridge.

I only wanted to see what dates I might have.

This is not the wild African savannah.

Mr. Selfridge is not a wildebeest

to be hunted down by slavering hyenas.

Cooperate and work peacefully

and in tandem from now on.

What's going on?

Nothing for you to worry about, Mr. Selfridge.

I think it might be better for you to work

from the Selfridge household, Miss Blenkinsop,

seeing as though you have

all the family's social engagements to arrange.

PLUNKETT: Yes.

We could meet here every Monday, Miss Blenkinsop,

to apportion Mr. Selfridge's time to our diaries.

Excellent idea, Miss Plunkett.

What do you think you're doing?

Of course.

Dirty little scrubber looking for money.

(sighs)

Have I told you recently

how utterly contemptibleyou are?

But my money is above contempt, I take it?

No, I don't think I have,

so I really should avail myself of this opportunity.

You, Loxley.

You are a weak, wretched little man.

On your knees... if you want it.

You were born into nobility,

but there's nothing noble about you.

You're a war profiteer.

The scum of the earth.

Get out.

And you're a coward.

Letting Harry Selfridge take the blame

for your dirty money making schemes.

Take the money and get out.

It's the last you'll get from me.

I would keep an eye on the newspapers if I were you.

What's that supposed to mean?

Good-bye, Loxley.

May you rot in hell.

I was wrong not to speak out when I knew that Loxley

was obtaining money by foul means.

And I was wrong to vouch for a man I knew had no moral spine.

Our troops have suffered because of it.

And you have endured the blame, Harry.

The Procurement Committee convenes today.

Go and right these wrongs.

Go and clear your name.

You can't go in there!

Watch me.

(men chatting)

(men fall silent)

My name is Harry Selfridge,

and I stand before you to clear my name.

Get out, Selfridge!

This is the House of Lords.

No place for a shopkeeper!

(laughing)

This man is a traitor to this country.

Mr. Selfridge, please.

And you are no better for not speaking out against him.

Somebody remove this man.

You came to me for advice on manufacturers

to supply the troops.

And look where your advice led us.

SELFRIDGE: For the sake of the troops, I say to you all,

check every order that passed through this man's hands.

I am sure that shoddy boots

are merely the tip of the iceberg.

He has been feathering

his own nest with kickbacks

from crooked and inferior manufacturers.

A contemptible lie!

Have you no shame, Selfridge?

Oh, I've been shamed.

In the press, in the eyes of the public, my staff,

but most terrible of all, in front of my family.

And quite rightly so.

I chose suppliers on your word.

The word of a gentleman, I thought.

The word of a man who knew what he was about.

I strongly suggest

that you made those recommendations

based on the promise of monies from those suppliers

to you, Selfridge.

This is the list that I gave you, Loxley.

It quite clearly states

that under no circumstances

do you use Kings, the boot manufacturers.

Who did you use, Loxley?

Kings.

(men muttering)

SELFRIDGE: Your own wife is willing to authenticate this list.

She's also willing to testify

to huge sums of cash

deposited directly into your accounts

practically from the moment that you joined this committee.

What's going to come out next, Loxley?

Yes, I'm a Yank.

And I'm a shopkeeper.

But I'm a man of honor.

Which is more than I can say

for some of the occupants of this room.

Good day to you, gentlemen.

Loxley?

Perfect, isn't it?

Honest and true.

Like Miss Towler herself.

Are you in love with her?

Yes.

Take good care of her, Mr. Colleano.

I am leaving first thing in the morning.

Good luck, Mr. Leclair.

What is it, Victor?

I'll always love you, Agnes.

I should hope so too.

But I can't marry you.

What?

I can't take you away

from this life you've made for yourself.

Against all the odds.

You'd come to resent me.

And maybe children would soften that in time,

but years would pass and your heart would still be here.

You wouldn't be you, Agnes.

Victor...

The you I fell in love with is the you I can't have

because a life with me would mean too many changes for you.

I understood that my life would change

when I agreed to marry you.

And I'm grateful for that.

But I would never have all of your heart.

We both know who does.

You are the loveliest girl I've ever known, Agnes Towler.

And now I have to let you go.

Go to Henri.

Tell him you love him.

Be happy.

Would you do that for me?

Be happy.

Oh, Mr. Crabb, good news.

Mr. Edwards, Mr. Selfridge and his family

are on the shop floor!

Excuse me, Harry, I think you'll find

this interruption worthwhile.

One for you, one for you,

one for you, one for you.

Good news.

The whole of London is buzzing.

GROVE: What's going on?

Mr. Selfridge took on the establishment.

And Mr. Selfridge won.

Kings have admitted paying Loxley large sums of money

in exchange for orders.

They say he instructed them to cut corners.

They're willing to testify

in return for reduced culpability.

We couldn't ask for a better Thanksgiving present, Harry.

Thank you.

Members of the Procurement Committee

are sorely embarrassed.

They've extended an invitation to you to join the committee.

I said I'd ask.

Tell them I said thank you.

But I decline.

I'm a store man at heart.

That's who I am.

It's what I do.

What will I do with myself all day

now I don't have Loxley to worry about?

(laughing): I'm sure you'll think of something.

Indeed I will.

Yet once again, the world is my oyster.

(giggling)

Everything all right, Rose?

We'll speak later.

Just enjoy this moment.

You deserve it.

Well done, Mr. Edwards.

So can we put all this behind us and start again?

(sighs)

I'll consider it.

Kitty...

Miss Hawkins, you led me to believe...

What did I lead you to believe?

(laughing)

You can tell me over dinner tonight.

When you may call me Kitty again, if you wish.

Where are you going?

That is not your concern.

I cannot stay here any longer.

If I ask you to stay, will you stay?

Ask me?

I've been fighting my feelings for you for stupid reasons.

Other people's reasons.

I don't want you to go.

Please stay.

Please.

How many years since we all sat around a table

for Thanksgiving dinner?

Come on, hurry up!

(laughs)

Harry.

Yeah?

I've got something to tell you.

I haven't been feeling very well lately.

And I know you've asked a number of times

and I've brushed you off.

Rose?

I think the reason that I put it off

was because I knew

that there was something seriously wrong myself.

And now I've been to see the doctor

a couple of times now, and, um...

It's my lungs, Harry.

And what the doctors are saying is that

there really is nothing they can do.

Rose, sweetheart, what are you saying to me?

I don't know how to say this.

I'm dying, Harry.

Henri.

Agnes.

I thought I might find you here.

I...

I'm not marrying Victor.

And he told me to come to you.

Was... was he right?

I love you.

I love you, Agnes.

I've wanted to say those words for the longest time.

I love you.

You have to come back to me, Henri.

I will.

I will come back to you.

And when I do, I'll never leave you again.

We'll see the finest doctors in the entire world.

There are things that we can do!

Harry, sometimes there are limitations

to what any of us can do.

Even you, Harry.

(sighs)

Even you, my love.

But you know what you can do?

What?

What?

We're going to go downstairs

and we're going to enjoy our Thanksgiving dinner

with our family and our friends.

We will give thanks

and we will get through the evening

just the way I planned.

We can give them that.

And then tomorrow, in the morning...

we'll gather the family together and we'll let them know.

Can you do this for me, Harry?

Yes.

Thank you.

BEATRICE: I give thanks

for this pink chiffon dress I got in the store today.

GORDON: I give thanks for my parents and all they do for me.

I give thanks for us all being back together again.

A huge, big thanks for us all being back in London.

I give thanks that the Selfridge name

has been cleared of dishonor.

Well said.

Mae?

Oh, I give thanks

for friendship and forgiveness.

Rose, sweetheart?

I give thanks for all the years of happiness

that I have enjoyed.

With you, Harry.

And with my family.

And you?

I give thanks for the simple, most important things:

my family,

my friends,

my beloved wife.

And I give thanks for this moment in time,

which I shall cherish forever.

Amen.

I'm Alan Cumming, access.wgbh.org

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Season 2 of Mr. Selfridge is available on Blu-ray and DVD.

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