Get up!
Mr. Russell, you're nearly home.
Get up!
Get help!
Come, quick! Quickly! Come outside! Come! Quickly, come!
- Get the mistress now. - Here, give me a hand.
No time to waste.
- Bring him in. - Take him upstairs.
Get this approved quickly.
Be careful there.
- Whitman, open the dining room. - What happened?
Delivery man came into the office with a package,
- and then he just started shooting. - Take him in there!
- Fetch blankets and a pillow! - I'll get some ice and towels.
Is he breathing? Please tell me he's breathing.
I can feel a pulse.
- Is there anything I can do? - Go fetch Dr. Logan.
- Go. - There's a doctor in our house right now.
- Then bring him here! - I should tell you he's colored.
What do I care? Go get him.
And send for Mr. Larry.
There's a secretary who was shot, and I think he's dead.
My God. Go back to the office and deal with it.
And do you think you can keep the police away for now?
- I think so. - Okay.
Stay with me, my dear.
George, please, please, I beg you, stay with me.
- He's been shot? - Go at once.
- Be as quick as you can. - I need my bag.
Go. We'll bring it over to you.
- Is he still alive? - He is.
The doctor is on the way.
- But will he survive? - Maybe.
I don't know.
- What's happening? - Mr. Russell's been shot.
- What? Who by? - I don't know.
Dr. Kirkland was here to see me, so he's gone to help.
- I said I'd take his bag over. - Can you let me do that?
I need to be with Larry. I need to be with them all.
- Of course. - Tell my aunts where I've gone.
- I'm Dr. William Kirkland. May I? - Yes, please.
Mr. Russell, can you hear me?
- Can't you stop the pain? - No, it's good.
It's good that he feels pain. I need to assess his wound.
I need some clean water, ice, and towels.
They're on the way.
You're going to be all right, Mr. Russell. I've seen many, many gunshot wounds.
Where do you want these?
Here. Thank you.
I need another set of hands to maintain pressure.
- Show me what to do. - Press down here to stop the blood flow.
- Mrs. Russell, please. - Yes?
- Yes. - Talk to your husband.
It's going to be all right. You're going to be all right.
I need you all to hold him down, please.
- Hicks, hold his right arm. - Yes, sir.
- Barrett, get his legs. - Look at me. Look at me.
I feel the bullet. It's near the left ventricle.
Seems to be stuck on his rib.
I'm going to open him up. Can you hand me the forceps when I say?
Yes.
You're going to feel some pressure, Mr. Russell.
Focus on your wife. Can you do that?
- Don't worry. You're in good hands. - This will hurt.
Keep blotting the blood so I can see.
Forceps.
The bullet didn't splinter. We can thank God for that.
What's happening? Why is he shaking?
He's going into shock.
He's febrile.
Let's get some ice to bring his temperature down.
- No, no, stay with us. - It's all right.
- Stay with me. Stay with me.
Please, please, you have to save him.
Please! Please, Doctor!
What's going on? Why are you up so early?
We've never been to bed.
Mr. Russell's been shot.
Miss Marian stayed there all night with Dr. Kirkland.
He's been shot?
And why would they send for Dr. Kirkland?
They didn't. He was visiting Miss Scott.
He went over to see if he could help.
It's a miracle that he was here.
I only pray you're right.
He'll be more comfortable upstairs in bed.
Of course.
What are you doing?
Dr. Logan, we sent for you hours ago. Where have you been?
Mrs. Strawder had her twins, and one of them was breech.
- Who are you? - Dr. William Kirkland.
Doctor? Where did you study?
Howard Medical School.
Don't try to speak.
I removed the bullet. There were no fragments.
Tied up vessels to stop the bleeding.
Then I packed the wound with iodine and cotton.
- What did you give him for pain? - I didn't have anything in my bag.
He was just visiting a house across the street when it happened.
- Take this to the pharmacy. - Church.
- Is he going to survive? - There is a risk of infection.
Still, it seems that--
- What did you say your name was? - Dr. Kirkland.
It seems that Dr. Kirkland may have saved his life.
It's very fortunate that he was nearby.
Thank you for all you've done. And thank God you were here to do it.
I trust we can count on your discretion.
Church, please make sure Dr. Kirkland gets home safely.
- Yes, ma'am. - Thank you.
- This way, Doctor. - Thank you.
Where is he?
- What's happened? - Your father's been shot.
Where have you been?
They didn't give me the note until this morning.
- Have they sent for the police? - No, they don't want to.
They don't want anyone to know.
- What are his chances, Dr. Logan? - Better than they might have been.
But now all we can do is pray.
He seems to be sleeping peacefully.
That's a relief.
My mother told me what you did.
You helped save my father's life.
Thank you.
I would do anything for you...
...and for your family.
You must know that.
And yet you called off our engagement.
I'm sorry. I was wrong.
I should have listened.
Jack told me that he was with you that night, and nothing happened.
I told you the same thing and you didn't believe me.
I'm willing to apologize, but you know my story.
- I've trusted men before-- - And there we have it.
I'm not the only one at fault here. You lied to me.
I did that to protect you.
And look where that has gotten us.
I can't hear this right now.
My father could be dying.
Of course.
I'm sorry. You should be with your parents.
I'll have Church see you home.
I can see myself home.
Thank you, Boles.
How are you holding up?
I wish the boat could go faster. I want some more news.
We haven't heard anything about my father's condition
since we got that cable in Southampton before departure.
I know it was vague...
...but at least it sounds like he's recovering.
Well, I'm happy for that.
It'll be good to see your family again.
Yes. I'll be glad to see them.
But I know that my home is Sidmouth now.
Thank you for that.
You've brought a light to the place that was sorely needed.
Do you really mean for Sarah to find her own home?
Yes.
There's only one duke.
And as I have only recently discovered,
there can only be one duchess.
He'll be glad Mr. Russell is improving.
Yeah.
If it weren't for Dr. Kirkland, he never would have survived.
And have you heard any word from Larry?
I'm afraid he has more important things on his mind.
Miss Scott.
I'm glad to see you, to wish you a good trip to Newport.
I hope you can manage without me.
I think so.
Mrs. Van Rhijn doesn't get as much mail as she used to.
Well, I'd better get started. I'm going to my parents' first.
- Have a safe journey. - Thank you.
Mrs. Forte.
You'd better not remind Aunt Agnes that she gets fewer letters these days.
You're right.
Although Mrs. Foster from the Heritage Society
is proving quite persistent.
More begging letters?
They're not presented as such, but, yes.
I can see the matter with Larry is still weighing on your mind.
Yes. John told me that Larry didn't do anything wrong the night we got engaged.
He was with him.
But that's good news, isn't it?
It would have been, but Larry pointed out that when he told me nothing happened,
I didn't believe him.
I only believed John.
And Larry does not feel that that is a good place for us to start.
He has a point.
But you have your reasons for being cautious.
He should see that.
I'm sure you're right, but...
Right now it just feels like a sad loss for what might have been.
You're still determined not to involve the police?
I can't risk the news becoming public.
I depend on you to find out who shot me.
Is there anyone you suspect?
Yes, there--
There are men involved who wouldn't mind if my father were dead--
chief among them, Richard Clay.
We'll look into Mr. Clay.
Do.
And be as rough as you like.
Thank you, sir.
Your survival has been a kind of miracle.
But don't take it as permission to overdo things.
Thank you, Doctor.
I will make sure you follow the doctor's instruction.
Your health is my only priority,
which is why I must certainly cancel the ball now.
Don't cancel it for me.
- When people find out what's happened-- - You cannot use me as a reason.
And any other reason could easily ring false.
I won't allow you to jeopardize the railroad.
Very well.
McAllister's book has shaken society to its roots.
To call it off now may do even more damage to people's confidence.
And I'm sure you wouldn't want that.
I'm going back to the club.
Now, you have a ball to prepare for.
If you're feeling better, maybe you can make a brief appearance.
All of us together as a shining example
of a stable, united family at a well-run society event.
Of which you are the leader.
Mrs. Astor is the leader.
Mrs. Astor is the mother of a woman who is about
to be dragged to divorce court for her own adultery.
You are the mother of a duchess.
We are the parents of a duchess.
He swept in quite valiantly,
removed the bullet from Mr. Russell and saved his life.
Lord, what a feat.
I wonder if anyone will ever know
that a colored doctor saved a prominent white businessmen.
I mean, stranger things have happened.
Well, the only reason he was on 61st Street was to see me.
Well, that's late to be paying a call.
I know.
We never got to talk, but he's coming here anytime now.
- Well, won't we see him in Newport? - He's keen to speak before we leave.
It seemed important.
- I know what you're thinking. - You're not thinking it, too?
Maybe a little. I don't know.
- Has he spoken to Father? - Arthur hasn't said.
I actually have to take him his lunch pail.
- He forgot it. - All right.
But should I rush back from the pharmacy, or should I take my time?
Ellen is here, so you'll have a chaperone.
- Just take Father his lunch. - Oh, okay.
Stop it.
I will see you later.
I look forward to hearing what Dr. Kirkland has to say.
All right, all right, all right.
All right.
It's true, then?
Yes.
My father had the marriage annulled, but I was already with child.
I lost consciousness during childbirth,
and when I woke up, they falsely told me the baby had not survived.
Mr. Scott was responsible for putting the child up for adoption?
It has taken me a long time to try and make peace with it all
and to forgive him.
I was going to tell you. I just needed to build up the courage.
I see.
Are you leaving?
I need to walk and think.
I'm so sorry.
I understand if you believe the worst of me now.
None of my thoughts are clear at this moment.
I'll write to you.
We're going to Newport for the ball.
Yes. I'm to escort my mother back on tomorrow's train.
I'm afraid this information has strengthened her arguments against us.
Now it all seems...
...insurmountable.
I didn't tell you sooner because I'm a private person.
And to talk about such things, there never really is the right time.
No.
I suppose there isn't.
Goodbye, Miss Scott.
William.
This is yours, I think.
What's happened?
His mother has a friend in Philadelphia.
She knows the Springs.
Oh, no.
She told William everything.
And I'm sure she embellished wherever she saw fit.
It's over.
Is that what he told you?
He doesn't think we can fight her.
- Why would he? - No, he's shocked.
Love doesn't disappear in an instance.
No matter what happens, you are worthy of a husband
who understands and gives you grace
and cherishes you.
I wish I could believe that.
I'll say good night.
What? So early?
I hope you're not coming down with something.
I'm sure I'm fine.
Good night.
Marian is well enough.
That's not what ails her.
What do you mean?
Marian found out that Mr. Russell did nothing wrong
on the night of their engagement.
And now?
Mr. Russell questions whether they are a suitable match
if she can't trust him.
Well, thank goodness someone is behaving sensibly.
Imagine marrying into that family.
Really, Agnes, this isn't about that family.
This is about Marian and the man that she loves.
Don't be naive. You don't just marry a man.
You marry a life, and Marian deserves better...
someone from a stable, traditional, well-established family.
That's no guarantee of a happy marriage.
When you married Arnold, you had all that.
How did you feel about it?
I don't remember much.
Is that what you want for Marian?
I thought you didn't like Wagner.
Of course not. I have impeccable taste.
But we can't always do what we like.
Is that Mrs. Winterton?
I've not seen her since her husband died.
I don't think she's been out much.
I assume he left her well provided for.
I'm sure.
He had no children.
How interesting.
- Excuse us. - Of course.
We haven't met in a while.
I was so sorry to hear about your husband.
Thank you.
It was sad, of course, but he didn't suffer very long.
Even so.
This must be a hard time for you, having to reshape your life.
I hope you have lots of family and friends to support you.
Not really.
I have no family left in New York,
and our friends were really Joshua's friends.
But I still have his people.
They're old, but they look after me well enough.
If you ever want to talk things through with someone
who is not one of the late Mr. Winterton's people,
I hope you'll let me offer my services.
Of course. That's what you do now, isn't it?
Manage your clients' money.
I prefer to say that I manage their lives.
And you'd like to manage mine?
Oh, very much, if you'd let me.
Tell me about your life.
I presume you're going to Newport for Mrs. Astor's famous ball?
I am indeed going.
But Mrs. Astor isn't giving it this year.
It's been taken over by Mrs. Russell.
- Oh, dear. - What?
Won't you be on Mrs. Russell's list?
No.
And you're the one man in New York who knows why.
- You were at her daughter's wedding. - Mr. Winterton was still alive.
She thinks she's free of me now he's gone.
I won't be at the next wedding. You can be sure.
There won't be one anytime soon.
What a pity.
- We should go back in. - Must we?
Brace yourself.
I wanted you to know that the guest list is almost complete.
I am delighted to hear that preparations for the ball are going well.
I also came to tell you that I have invited Mrs. Fane
and would welcome Charlotte if she chose to attend.
- You would invite me? - That is absurd.
Whatever possessed you to think that I would favor such a thing?
It would be the ruin of us all.
Mrs. Astor, we are not talking about strangers.
This is our dear friend, Aurora Fane, as well as your own daughter.
Do you want them to live in exile forever?
We cannot allow the scourge of divorce
to infect the social circles we hold dear.
But, Mother, don't you see what Mrs. Russell is proposing could save me?
Don't you want that for your own child?
If you receive them, it will become an epidemic.
And I cannot be a part of that.
So I'm to spend the rest of my life
making needlepoint samplers in front of the fire?
For that, you'd need to learn to thread a needle.
Mrs. Astor, I hope you'll reconsider.
I will not.
And if you force me,
I will make no secret of why I do not plan to attend your ball.
Good day.
I can do it, thank you.
Miss Brook.
Miss Brook, I appreciate your coming.
I wanted to have the chance to thank you for all you did.
We're both very grateful. I hope you'll let me give you a new dress.
No, but I am very glad
to see Mr. Russell sitting up and talking.
Quite the change from the last time you were together.
Well, if you'll excuse me, I have some business to attend to.
You do know I think it quite a shame that you two have fallen out.
Can I second that?
Yes, it is a shame.
Does that mean you're having second thoughts?
I hope so.
I'm very relieved to see you looking as you do,
but I don't want to tire you.
Thank you again, Miss Brook.
I'll show you out.
So what will happen with the end-of-season ball in Newport?
George says I'm to go ahead.
Hector and Gladys are on their way over.
And as you know, George wants the shooting to be unreported,
so I couldn't give it as my excuse.
He's a very determined man.
Nothing is to disturb the business he is working on.
So the ball will go on.
And I have invited Mrs. Fane and Mrs. Drayton, too.
Are you really trying to end the exclusion of divorced women?
I think it's time, don't you?
And Mrs. Drayton's divorce gives me the chance--
at least I thought it did.
You mean Mrs. Astor doesn't agree?
It's early days yet.
I'm sorry I won't be there to support your decision.
What? You're not coming to the ball?
You saw how uncomfortable Larry was around me.
Don't give up on him.
- I don't see what choice I have. - Nonsense.
I saw you soaked in blood and helping to keep George alive.
I knew then you were no feeble debutante.
I suppose at that moment, I saw you through Larry's eyes.
The two of you could have a bright future. Won't you fight for it?
The choice is not mine.
Larry has made that quite clear.
And...
...if he feels this strongly, it's probably for the best.
This is good of you to come and see us from your smart new house.
I hope I'm not in the way.
Oh, no, it's nice to have you around again.
What's it like in your new home?
- Who looks after you there? - Mrs. Clancy.
She's nice, but not as good a cook as Mrs. Bauer.
Of course not.
Not much of a cook at all.
Does she clean for you as well?
There are two women who come in each day, but Mrs. Clancy manages them.
I don't.
Our footman is living like a prince, waited on hand and foot.
What's wrong with that? He's earned it, hasn't he?
Are they young women?
I suppose.
What does that matter?
I hope it doesn't.
You're back.
How was Mr. Russell?
I think he may be past the worst.
I do pray so.
- They've asked for our discretion. - Such a terrible business.
They hope to keep things as normal as possible,
so they're going ahead with the ball.
That's quite bold under the circumstances.
I think it shows real courage.
Yes, in fact, Mrs. Russell told me
that she has invited Aurora and Charlotte Astor.
What?
Surely Lina Astor will not approve of that.
No, she doesn't approve at all.
Well, is there any wonder of it? A cotillion of divorcées?
What's next on the list-- mudsills, unwed mothers?
Mrs. Russell is treading on dangerous ground.
I wasn't planning on going anyway.
I don't want to have to see Larry.
Yes, your Aunt Ada did mention
that you and Mr. Russell were still at odds, but...
you must go to him now, Marian, and admit that you were wrong.
Do you admit when you're wrong, Mama?
I don't need to. I'm never wrong.
I thought you didn't approve of Mr. Russell.
I've had a change of heart.
Perhaps Larry will as well.
I have no intention of finding out.
Mr. Van Rhijn.
Please.
Thank you.
What can I do for you?
I wanted to be sure you knew how things stood with Larry and Marian.
- She knows now he did nothing wrong. - Of course not.
But it doesn't seem to have made much difference.
She still doesn't plan on attending the ball.
Yes, I know.
I was thinking, perhaps...
...I could try to convince her otherwise.
Why?
Because you want to be helpful to me?
Of course.
Surely you know that.
What I know is that you want a favor, Mr. Van Rhijn.
Shall we save time?
Might you consider inviting Mrs. Winterton to your ball?
Heavens.
I thought the death of her husband had taken her off the board.
What about Mrs. Astor?
Mrs. Astor doesn't favor her,
but I believe your support would be a bastion against that.
The day is coming when you will be as strong as Mrs. Astor...
...or stronger.
Very well, Mr. Van Rhijn. I will invite her.
But I expect to see Miss Brook there as well.
I hope you will not disappoint me.
Oscar. Where have you been?
I had things to see to before we leave for Newport.
In fact, I ran into Mrs. Russell earlier today.
She is most disappointed that Marian's not coming to the ball.
She seems quite fond of you.
It's a shame for you to miss it.
If Marian does not wish to attend, we must respect her decision.
She won't be the only one who doesn't show up.
Of course.
But when one thinks what the Russells have been through.
Who could be ringing at this hour?
That's your Mrs. Foster.
She won't stay long. She's on her way to a dinner.
She isn't my Mrs. Foster.
Mrs. Philip Foster.
Thank you for coming.
Mrs. Foster is from the New York Heritage Society.
And I fear you'll say I haven't answered your letters.
And for that, I do apologize.
Mrs. Van Rhijn, what's important is that we are speaking now.
Well, you're very kind.
Am I mistaken, or when I was last here,
there was a lovely portrait of Robert Livingston,
who became the state's first chancellor?
He did indeed. You have a wonderful memory.
Do you know that he administered
the presidential oath to George Washington?
Such deep historical connections your family shares with our city.
Your interest in my family is a compliment,
but we both know you have but one goal in your pursuit of me.
- Well, it's true. We do want-- - Let me just stop you right there.
- Aunt Agnes, we should go. - Stay. You know the facts.
Agnes, what you don't know is--
I want to put an end to the turmoil of this embarrassment.
The truth is, and I should have been honest before now,
I cannot make a donation to the society because...
...I no longer have adequate means to do so.
But we don't expect a donation from you, Mrs. Van Rhijn.
We're well-funded.
What we want from you is your name
as a vice president.
Vice president of the New York Heritage Society?
Yes.
Oh, Agnes, what an honor.
Well, you're right, it's...
...it is quite an honor.
Mrs. Foster, I'm sorry.
I completely misjudged the situation
and made a fool of myself in the process.
Could you visit me again when we get back from Newport?
And we could discuss this properly.
I certainly will.
And now I must run.
Good evening to all of you.
- Good evening. - Good evening to you.
Did you know that's what she wanted?
I wrote to her, and, yes, I knew it was something of the sort.
There's a Miss Bridget here to see you.
Bridget.
Mrs. Bauer thought you were getting a bit bony,
so she sent me with some of your favorite lamb stew.
I really worry if you don't attend the ball,
- you'll cause more talk than if you do. - I hadn't thought of that.
If Mrs. Russell really does invite Aurora and she accepts,
I do hope you'll reconsider, Marian.
Bannister, I believe we are finally ready for dinner.
Oscar, why don't you sit next to your mother tonight?
No.
What?
I think the time has come for you to take the head of the table.
But you've always--
You are running the family as well as this house.
It is time for you to be at the head.
I'll sit here next to Marian.
Agnes?
Thank you.
It was very thoughtful of Mrs. Bauer.
And of you to bring it.
- Aren't you having any? - I ate before I came.
Won't you at least sit down?
I'm a servant.
Not in this house.
No, in this house, you're a guest of the master.
- Do you mean it? - Of course I do.
I'm honored to welcome you.
It feels very safe with you here.
Can I say that without making you feel uncomfortable?
I'm not uncomfortable.
Not at all.
All right, then.
Now tell me about your day.
Well, this morning,
when I was starting to prepare breakfast...
I'm going to lie down.
Well, we have our appointment,
with the dressmaker to get our gowns for the ball.
I sent my measurements already. It should be fine.
We'll pick it up for you.
What's wrong with the girl?
I'll tell you on the way to the shop.
Miss Gladys!
Your Grace!
Adelheid, what are you doing here?
Mrs. Russell sent for me to look after you.
Does that mean--
If that's what Your Grace would like.
I so hope it is.
I have a letter for Miss Boles, with a ticket back to England.
And rather more than that, I hope.
Much more, Your Grace.
Why don't you have a rest before your journey home?
We'll go this way.
I'm enjoying the idea that your mother has admitted to making a mistake.
I'm not convinced that's how she'd put it.
Yes, ma'am.
Hello.
- Hello, Aurora. It's good to see you. - I'm glad you've come.
Do we know if Mrs. Astor has arrived in Newport?
I haven't heard either way.
Have you decided whether you're going to the ball?
Not entirely.
I was so certain I wouldn't be invited.
Apparently that was before Mrs. Russell lost her mind.
You won't see Lina Astor there.
I'm not even sure that I'm going.
I think if Mrs. Russell means to challenge convention,
we should take her part.
One evening at the head of the table and you're ready to change the world?
You do have a dress, don't you?
I've got the dress.
I'm just not sure I've got the nerve.
Mrs. Russell is making such an effort for you.
But she can't control the looks I'll get
- when I enter the ballroom. - Yes.
We shall all enter the ballroom together.
What?
If Aurora can be brave enough, then so can we all.
Don't you agree, Marian?
Yes.
We can be brave together.
It's perfect for the occasion.
Yes.
You look beautiful, Dorothy.
Oh, thank you. It's a lovely color, isn't it?
Mrs. Kirkland. Mrs. Trumbo.
I was walking by and thought I spotted you through the window.
I must say, I'm surprised to see you here, Mrs. Scott.
We're just getting the finishing touches on my cousin's gown for your ball.
- Here is your daughter's gown. - Thank you so much.
So Miss Scott is still attending?
Why wouldn't she?
I know my son invited her, but that was before.
Before what?
Before he learned the truth of your daughter's past.
My daughter has nothing to be ashamed of.
- She duped my son. - She did nothing of the sort.
She was going to tell your son about the most harrowing time in her life.
- But she didn't. - Yet.
She had planned to.
But you didn't miss your opportunity
to seize on the news and disseminate it like a pox,
making your son think the worst.
I didn't make him think anything. It was your daughter who deceived him.
I had hoped that Peggy would do the respectable thing and send her regrets.
It is uncanny to me
how you can see everyone else's flaws and mistakes but not your own.
I beg your pardon.
As a pastor's wife, I shouldn't have to remind you of the verse,
"For all have sinned and come short of the glory of God."
Dorothy, let's lower the temperature.
My patience has worn thin, and I can no longer hold my tongue.
Perhaps you should heed your cousin's warning.
Perhaps you should get off your high horse.
You have enjoyed a certain kind of privilege amongst our people
here in Newport that has created an illusion for you.
And what kind of illusion is that?
The kind that has enabled you to act without grace,
manners, and impunity.
But I am not from Newport.
We will be attending the ball as a family.
My husband has made a rather nice donation
because that is actually the respectable thing to do, Mrs. Kirkland.
- How are we getting on? - The dress is perfect. Thank you.
Can I get you anything, Mrs. Kirkland?
No, I'm fine.
I should be going. I'm the guest of honor at an event later.
- Well, we'll see you at the ball. - Yes, of course.
And, Mrs. Scott, whether your daughter attends or not,
I take solace in the fact that my son knows the truth now
and has changed his mind about her.
If that is truly his decision,
then your son was never really worthy of my Peggy in the first place.
Those go in the far corner.
Father.
Dr. Kirkland.
Mrs. Russell, Mr. Russell.
- Dr. Kirkland. - No need to stand on my account.
No. It's all right.
I was delighted to hear of your progress when your son came to call on me.
I should have written, but I delayed until I had a chance to talk to Dr. Logan
about the night when you came to my aid.
I'm thankful I was there to help.
Dr. Logan was very clear.
If you had not been at the Brook house by chance, as we know, I would be dead.
Well, I--
Instead, working without the tools you needed,
without the medicines or any trained assistants,
you pulled me through, so...
...I have decided to thank you...
...in a way that I hope is commensurate with what you did.
- May I open it? - Please.
I can't take this.
Why?
Because it is worth more than my life?
I assure you it is not.
Even so--
Our whole family is very grateful for everything you did.
You took a risk.
If things had gone badly and I had died,
there are people who would have tried to persecute you.
So we must add courage to your other virtues.
I hope you'll indulge me by accepting it.
There he is.
We are so proud of you, son.
For what?
For saving the life of a captain of industry,
not to mention your handsome reward.
I'm grateful I was able to help him,
but my practice will not soon be flooded with robber barons.
It's nearly time to leave.
You should hurry, get dressed for the ball.
I'm not going.
What?
This is our family event.
Don't let that woman spoil it.
"That woman"?
You never liked her, did you?
All I will say is that I'm a good judge of character.
But you are not the final judge.
How many people did you tell, Mother?
Me?
It seems we were the last to know.
According to Mrs. Brown, everyone in Philadelphia knows.
- So Mrs. Brown, and who else? - Mrs. Oden.
But I'm hardly to blame.
So now this has become gossip?
You have sullied her reputation.
I did no such thing. She did that all by herself.
Don't you see? This is the woman he loves.
- "Loves"? - Yes.
Oh, son, this will pass.
There will be many others, starting tonight at the ball.
That is not the answer, Elizabeth.
Was I to allow her to continue this deception all the way down the aisle?
What would everyone think and say about the pastor's son's wife?
Maybe they'd think she's human like the rest of us.
She could take down our family name. I was not about to let that happen.
We are a family that loves and forgives.
But she didn't even give us a chance
to offer forgiveness because she kept it all a secret.
You cannot be involved with someone who has such a tainted past.
Woman.
You are not above reproach.
Are you taking the liar's side above your wife?
I had a duty to inform and protect our son.
He is a grown man.
You should have given William and Miss Scott
a chance to work this out themselves.
I gave him an opportunity to hear the truth and make a decision.
No.
You did not.
He's right.
You have sown calamity and heartbreak.
And this is not the first time.
It stops now.
I just did what I thought was right.
For whom?
Look at the time.
- The carriage is waiting. - I will meet you out front.
Am I to get in the carriage without my husband?
I would like to have a word with William alone.
I only want what's best for you.
I don't want a lecture.
Well, that's good, because I'm not giving you one.
I will only say...
...that you get to decide...
...what kind of man you want to be...
...and what you want for your life.
Thank you for that.
Remember...
...the good Lord has ordered your steps.
I wish I knew which way He was telling me to go.
You really intend to go?
Yes. I was invited, and I am going.
Can't you see that this is just another reckless folly of Mrs. Russell's?
Your presence will be an embarrassment for the other women there,
if there are any.
Is that what I am to you now...
just an embarrassment?
Charlotte...
...I am trying to protect you.
No, Mother.
As usual, you are just trying to protect yourself.
It's kind of you to receive my guests, Hector.
- Thank you. - Of course.
- Where is Mr. Russell? - He's in his room, resting.
- But no one's to know what happened? - No one is to know.
Finally.
We were going to send up a search party.
- Don't you think I look nice? - You look wonderful.
Well, that takes a lot of work.
- Doesn't it, Mother? - Let's hope it will have been worth it.
If Mrs. Astor has her way, no one may come.
Madam, the carriages are starting to arrive.
I'm glad if that means there's more than one.
August, over there.
- I don't know if I can do this. - Of course you can.
We can.
Don't worry. I won't leave your side.
Well, I only hope the Heritage Society
will not lose faith in its newest vice president
if they find out I actually attended this.
I'm sure they have better things to do than monitor your activities.
I can't think of any.
Mrs. Joshua Winterton.
- Mrs. Winterton. - You're so kind to have included me.
Well, given our shared history,
you probably know me better than any other woman in the room.
Might we even be friends one day?
I don't think it likely, but stranger things have happened.
Please, make your way to the terrace
and enjoy our magnificent display of illumination.
Good evening.
Mr. and Mrs. Charles Havemeyer.
Thank you.
Right this way.
- I shouldn't have come. - Nonsense.
You have absolutely nothing to be ashamed of.
Don't let those people dictate who you are.
- Hello. - Hello.
- Hi. - Come on.
You look wonderful.
Mrs. James Drayton.
Mrs. Drayton.
Your mother isn't with you?
I'm afraid she wasn't feeling very well.
I see.
I'm so sorry to hear that.
Mrs. Drayton, I hope things are not too trying for you.
You're very kind, Duke.
Thank you. More than I can say.
Mrs. Forte and Mrs. Van Rhijn.
Mrs. Russell, how is Mr. Russell?
Surprisingly well. I hope we'll see him later.
And Mrs. Astor?
- May I introduce Mrs. Forte? - Oh, Your Grace.
And her sister, Mrs. Van Rhijn.
- You know the Duke. - Of course.
Although we've hardly spoken.
Miss Brook and Gladys have told me everything about you.
Not quite everything, I hope.
Mrs. Charles Fane and Miss Brook.
Miss Brook, it's so good of you to come.
You're very welcome here, Aurora.
Thank you for having me.
I think you know the duchess.
It's lovely to see you.
Miss Brook, Mrs. Fane, welcome.
Mr. And Mrs. Clement Moore.
So lovely to see everyone in their end-of-season finery.
Yes.
Nearly everyone.
Mr. And Mrs. Benjamin Porter.
Thank you for coming.
Mr. and Mrs. Ogden Mills.
Mrs. Astor.
Lina, Charlotte told me you were feeling unwell.
I'm so glad to see you've made such a swift recovery.
Thank you.
Though I have a feeling I may relapse at any moment.
- Duke. - Mrs. Astor.
Mr. And Mrs. Frederic Bronson.
I'm so glad you could join us.
Mrs. Astor.
Did you see Mrs. Astor is here?
- Mrs. Astor. - Mrs. Astor is here.
Well, isn't this splendid?
What made you change your mind?
Your situation may be embarrassing...
...but you are not an embarrassment.
You are my daughter.
I always thought if you had a choice between me and the laws of society,
then society would win every time.
Which once again proves...
...you don't know everything.
Thank you.
Ladies and gentlemen...
...the ball is about to begin.
We didn't know what we would do.
I don't know how you manage it with three.
Well, the children are easy. It's the husband that takes all the work.
I do believe that handsome gentleman is coming this way.
He's certainly not coming for me.
May I have this dance?
Are you all right?
I'm fine.
Can you manage this?
I can manage.
- Any word on the investigation? - Nothing concrete yet.
And any news from Miss Brook?
No.
Don't let a misunderstanding get in the way of your happiness.
There will always be disagreements.
You must weigh those against the value of what brings you together.
Now, let us away to the ball.
I knew he would change his mind.
Hello, Mrs. Scott.
If you'll excuse us.
Let him go.
Sir, may I have a word?
All right.
What do you think that was about?
I don't know, and I'm too afraid to hope.
I fear I will live to regret this.
No, Lina, I want only gratitude from you.
Brother Russell has arranged for your wayward daughter
to be publicly greeted by a genuine duke.
Yes, in a ballroom
full of tricksters and demimondaines.
Lina, Brother Russell's ballroom is full of the future.
Don't hold so tightly to those of the past,
or you may be swept away when they are.
Ladies, I trust you're enjoying yourselves?
Oh, yes.
Mrs. Fish is trying to teach me not to be afraid of the future.
Why should you be?
The future belongs to America.
Perhaps that is what makes me afraid.
Excuse me.
I can't tell you how pleased I am that you're here.
We're all here, just as you wanted
This may not be the proper time and place to ask,
but I feel the need to seize the moment.
My wife told me you and Peggy fell out.
I never saw it that way.
- She's heartbroken. - And I am, too.
I don't hold Miss Scott's past against her.
Are you pleased to be here?
I should have known you were the one person who could deliver it.
Oh, I can do much more than that if you'll let me.
I will let you, because it's such a relief to talk to a man
who knows the truth about me.
There's no need for pretense.
You know, we...
...we could take this further.
What do you mean?
Do you have anywhere outside New York?
I've got a house on the Hudson, but it's quite modest.
I have a cottage, too.
We'd agree not to visit the other's place without an invitation.
But in the city...
...we'd be a pair...
A fighting pair.
All this is if--
If we marry.
With your money and my connections,
we'd have the whole world at our feet.
What do you say?
I say...
...come to luncheon when we get back to New York.
So this is it from now on?
With divorcées and parvenus packing the floor?
And scarcely a chair kept for us?
Societies change, Agnes.
The trick is to accommodate the new without upsetting the boat.
I can hardly believe I'm here.
I thought this was all over for me.
You have Mrs. Russell to thank.
She took a great risk.
And it seems to have worked.
Are you all right?
I think I need some air.
You have my attention.
I love your daughter, sir.
And with your permission...
I'd like to ask for her hand in marriage.
I intend to make a life with your daughter and a family.
I have ample means to provide for and protect her.
And you understand that a marriage is between a man and his wife...
...not her parents or your own?
Yes, sir.
Arthur.
May I?
I spoke to your father.
What?
When you left, I thought it was over.
Hardly.
I promise never to leave you again if you'll have me.
Miss Scott...
...will you marry me?
I didn't think you'd come.
I came with Aurora Fane.
Of course you did.
Now it's my turn to apologize.
I don't understand how things got so tangled up between us.
I suppose I panicked.
I assumed the worst because that's what's happened to me in the past.
Why should things be better in the future?
Can't we make it better?
We could try.
But nothing's guaranteed in this life, Marian.
No doubt you'll get things wrong, and so will I.
And when I do, will you walk out on me again?
I'm not saying it was all your fault.
Nor am I.
So what do we do?
Well...
...one thing we can be sure of...
we're not going to solve all our problems tonight.
But, Miss Brook, may I have this dance?
- What are you grinning about? - Oh, nothing.
- She's not unhappy, George. - No, she's not unhappy.
You've certainly put the rumors to rest. You look very fit.
And you've managed another triumph.
I just want what's best for us all.
I must confess,
being so near death has rather changed my perspective on that.
Really?
Well, if that's good, then I'm glad.
But, mainly, I'm relieved to have you still here with me.
What's happening?
I'm going back to New York.
But you can't go alone. You aren't well enough.
Larry's coming with me. He's in the carriage.
But didn't we settle this last night? Aren't you coming back to 61st Street?
I'm sorry.
I thought you understood I only came to the ball to protect the business.
"To protect the business"?
And I know how important it is for you to gain points over Mrs. Astor.
Yes, it is.
I'm just sorry you had to use our daughter as one of your pieces.
You'll never understand.
I wanted Gladys to escape this cage.
- But you forced her into a marriage. - And you walked her down the aisle!
Which is precisely what I can't forgive!
I don't blame you for being ruthless.
I admire it.
It's what we share.
But I'm ruthless in business...
...not with the people I love.
And I am ruthless for the people I love! Can you not see that?
Is this because of the shooting?
Maybe.
It's made me examine my life.
And I don't like everything I see.
So you're not coming home?
- Not until we know what we want. - I know what I want.
Of course you do.
I, on the other hand, am not so sure.
Sir.
I'm just coming.
- Where's Father? - You're up early.
I thought you'd sleep till noon.
I've got news, and I'm bursting.
The doctor made me promise to be silent till the first four months were done,
but that was last night, and I had to tell Hector first.
You see...
...I'm going to have a baby.
Let's find Father.
We can break it to him together. He'll be so pleased.
Mother?