Episode title: 0183
Australian airdate: 05/02/86
UK airdate: 16/07/87
UK Gold: 14/07/93
Writer: Penny Fraser
Director: Chris Langman
Guests:
Music:
Summary/Images by: Graham
Recap
Rawlings telling Helen that he's tracked down Douglas Blake.
Helen telling Madge that she's going to make Douglas pay for what he did to her.
Helen telling Jim that Scott will be home today, as the school tour's been cut short – but she thinks there might be something wrong.
The bus pulling into the bus station but Scott not being on it.
No. 26
Paul is talking on the ‘phone, sitting with his feet up on the desk in the lounge room, trying to arrange a date. He has a little black book in his hand! The person blows him out, though, and Nikki joins him and remarks that he's not having much luck. Paul just retorts that he's been out of circulation for a while. Nikki asks what's so important about tonight. Paul tells her that it's a business dinner: a Chinese banquet with dancing afterwards. Nikki smiles that she *loves* Chinese food. She then exclaims:
NIKKI: Hey, why don't you take *me*? I'm sick of this place. I need a night out.
Paul, however, retorts curtly:
PAUL: Nikki, this is the first time I've been out to dinner with my bosses. I need to make a good impression, and that includes taking out a sophisticated lady who can hold an intelligent conversation.
NIKKI (mutters): No wonder nobody will go out with you: it sounds as if they have to pass an IQ test to be accepted.
PAUL (sighs): Come off it, Nikki: if I took *you*, they'd think I was cradle-snatching.
Nikki snaps at him to forget it. Helen joins them and offers sandwiches. Nikki declines and so Helen declares that she'll leave them for Scott: he's bound to be hungry after his bus trip. At that moment, the front door opens and Jim comes in alone. Looking surprised, Paul asks:
PAUL: Where's Scott?
JIM (shrugs): He wasn't on the bus.
HELEN (looking surprised): There must be some mistake. What time's the next one?
JIM: There *isn't* another one.
HELEN: He might have rung and let us know.
JIM: Yeah. I'll ‘phone the school.
Paul heads off to his room. Helen sighs heavily and asks where Lucy is. Jim replies that she's out the back, playing with Basil. He dials the school number, commenting as he does so that there probably won't be any reply: he'll have to wait until tomorrow.
No. 22
Paul has turned up at No. 22, and as he heads inside, he tells Zoe that he wants a word with Daphne. Zoe retorts that Daphne's in her room and doesn't want to talk to anyone.
PAUL: I only want to ask her out for dinner.
ZOE (looking astonished): How insensitive can you *get*? She should be on her honeymoon with Des right now. Do you really think she's so shallow she's going to enjoy an intimate candlelit dinner with *you* instead?
Paul insists that it's not like that: it's purely a business function. He then suggests:
PAUL: What about *you*? Why don't *you* come with me?
ZOE (indignantly): Well apart from your attitude that anyone-will-do, which I don't like, I'm *working* tonight.
PAUL: Mike can fill-in at the Coffee Shop.
ZOE (sighs): You're missing the point, Paul: I don't want to go out with you *anywhere*. You've got a lousy reputation and I can see why, now: you're loud, pushy and tactless.
PAUL (mutters): Yeah, well, *your* reputation's not that hot either: I thought you'd *jump* at the chance of a free feed.
ZOE: *That's* a pretty stupid thing to say, seeing I work in a Coffee Shop.
PAUL (mutters): Yeah, you're right: I should've known you'd eat all the profits.
ZOE: You should change your approach: your life's going to get pretty lonely. Why don't you come back and see me when you've woken up to yourself?
With that, Paul walks out. Zoe shakes her head and sighs heavily.
No. 26
Helen is sitting on the couch, staring into space and commenting that Scott definitely said he was coming home ahead of the others. Jim has just hung up the ‘phone and Helen asks him if Mr. Ross knows why the trip was shortened.
JIM: Nothing official – although there were rumours about the boys playing up.
HELEN (looking surprised): *Scott* wouldn't be involved in that.
JIM: Well it must have been something pretty serious for the teachers to think they wanted to cancel the tour.
Paul comes back in and insists that Scott will turn up: he's a big boy now; he can look after himself. Helen just sighs that *she's* the one who spoke to him: she could tell he was upset. She adds in concern:
HELEN: There's something about it I don't like, Jim. I can feel it...
No. 24
Shane is dusting when there's a knock on the front door. He opens it to find Mr. Sanderson on the step. Sanderson marches in and says tersely:
SANDERSON: Hello, Ramsay. The General Manager has asked me to talk to you. You have managed to lose an extremely expensive motor car.
SHANE: That's not fair, Mr. Sanderson: it was *stolen* from me.
SANDERSON (curtly): I think it would be more accurate to say you virtually *gave* it away. If you had adhered to company policy, this could never have happened – and company policy does not give you permission to hire yourself and the car out for company weddings.
SHANE: Well, no... but I couldn't see any harm in it: I paid for the petrol I used.
SANDERSON: I should *think* so – but the fact remains that the car was stolen because you didn't obey company rules. However, I hope you'll be pleased to know the police have *found* the vehicle.
SHANE (looking relieved): Oh great! Damaged?
SANDERSON: No.
SHANE: So I can come back to work, then?
SANDERSON: Good heavens, no. How could we ever trust you again? I've just come to pick up your uniform. From this date, you can consider yourself dismissed.
Shane glares at him.
Coffee Shop
Mike is sitting at one of the tables, doing his homework. Zoe peers over his shoulder and suggests he uses his calculator. Mike, however, insists that he can manage. Zoe then comments in surprise:
ZOE: How come you're working so hard, anyway? I thought you'd be on the school excursion.
MIKE: There's no crime against it, is there? They're not compulsory.
ZOE: No, but, you know: most kids love—
MIKE (snaps): Excursions aren't *all* there is to school.
Zoe tells him to keep his shirt on. She adds that his homework has really got him keyed-up.
MIKE: I'm just a bit behind - it's not that easy to work at home.
Zoe smiles that it used to be like a madhouse at home when *she* had exams; she used to think she'd go crazy with all the distractions.
MIKE (hesitantly): That's why I was wondering if it would be OK if I kept on doing my homework *here*.
ZOE (shrugs): I can't see why not. Daphne won't mind.
MIKE: Do you think she'll be back to work this week?
ZOE: I don't know. Mightn't be a bad idea if she did, though: might take her mind off the cancelled wedding.
The door opens suddenly and Paul comes in. He heads to the counter and Zoe joins him. He tells her that he's sorry for being such a jerk before; he's not *really* like that. Zoe just asks him bluntly if he'd like to order. Paul sighs:
PAUL: Oh come on – I'm trying to apologise.
Zoe hesitates only briefly before a smile crosses her face and she says:
ZOE: OK, I'll give you a second chance. Nobody could be *that* big a creep!
PAUL: Great – because I was hoping you'd reconsider about tonight. I'd really like you to come.
ZOE: No, I don't think so.
Zoe adds that she can't just leave Mike there on his own. Paul looks around and remarks that the place isn't exactly *busy*. He then points out:
PAUL: Come on – this is a top restaurant. There's going to be businessmen there; you'll make contacts; maybe get a better job than *this*.
Zoe hesitates and then gives in, saying she'll take a chance! She heads across to where Mike's sitting and asks him how he'd like to work extra hours.
No. 26
Shane is standing in the kitchen with Helen, who's commenting that Mr. Sanderson sounds a terrible man.
SHANE: Yes he is – although apparently the decision to fire me came from higher up: my sins warranted General Manager involvement!
HELEN (points out): They got their car back.
SHANE (sighs): Yes, but I *was* pretty irresponsible.
HELEN: Maybe, but not enough to be *fired*. I would've thought a good ticking-off would've done.
SHANE: I just wish he hadn't made that crack about me being unemployable. He knows all about the accident and the back injury.
HELEN: Well at least the doctor's given you a clean bill of health, so finding a job shouldn't be too much of a struggle.
SHANE: I wish I had your optimism...
HELEN: Does Max know?
SHANE (laughs): I dare not tell him! He'd be around to Fielding straight away and then we'd have to find money for a damages suit!
HELEN: I'd risk it for the moral support...
SHANE: Nah, I'll wait a while. Be great if I had a job, though, when I told him.
HELEN (warns): You won't fool him for long.
SHANE: I'll give it a couple of days. *You* won't say anything, will you, Helen?
HELEN: No, no, not if you don't want me to.
SHANE: Thank you. Let's just hope I can find something!
HELEN: You will. Just think positive: there's nothing worse than a potential employee with a hangdog expression!
Coffee Shop
The Coffee Shop is in darkness. The door opens and Zoe calls back to Paul that she just wants to check that Mike's emptied the till. She heads into the shop and goes to the till. She opens it and finds it full. She takes out several notes before then heading out again. She doesn't notice Mike huddled up asleep on a bench at one of the tables...
No. 22
Paul and Zoe are having coffee and Paul is commenting that Mike is pretty irresponsible, leaving the day's takings like that. Zoe nods that she can't understand it. Paul asks her if she thinks she should tell Daphne.
ZOE: Oh no, I'll have a talk to him first. He needs the job. He gets pretty tired with work and school: you can't be *too* heavy with him.
PAUL (curtly): He shouldn't take things on if he can't handle them properly.
ZOE (sighs): Ut-oh! I thought we'd *buried* the dynamic young executive for tonight! I had a very nice evening; don't spoil it now.
PAUL: I just don't want the guy playing on your sympathies. I mean, you're not used to handling employees.
ZOE (grins): How long have *you* been lauding over the sweatshop, Mr. Super Boss?!
PAUL: I have to keep my typists in line!
Zoe then smiles that she really enjoyed dinner tonight: he works with some nice people. Paul tells her that his boss said he wished *all* the company wives looked like her! Zoe accepts the compliment reluctantly and tells Paul to thank his boss for her. Paul replies that she can do that herself. Zoe looks at him warily. He tells her:
PAUL: There'll be *more* company functions and dinners. I thought you could come again.
ZOE: Tonight was just a favour to help you out.
PAUL: I know, I know, but you enjoyed it – and I enjoyed having you there!
ZOE (shrugs): Yeah, it was fun...
PAUL: Well why not do it again? I mean, purely business.
ZOE (warily): We'll see...

Episode title: 0185
Australian airdate: 07/02/86
UK airdate: 20/07/87
UK Gold: 16/07/93
Writer: Roger Moulton
Director: Chris Langman
Guests: Eileen Clarke – Myra de Groot
Marcie - Erif Perkins
Music:
Summary/Images by: Graham
Recap
Daphne telling Des that there's no point in talking about things. Des trying to explain about the wedding, but Daphne ignoring him.
Madge passing Douglas Blake at the hotel.
Hotel
As she presses the button for the elevator, Madge ‘accidentally' drops her handbag. A moment later, Douglas is standing behind her and he picks up the bag and hands it to her. Madge smiles:
MADGE: Thank you.
DOUGLAS (nods charmingly): My pleasure.
With that, Madge enters the lift.
No. 26
Des is standing on the front step and Paul invites him into the house. Des sighs that he can't take much more of this. Paul offers him a beer, but Des retorts that that's the *last* thing he wants. Paul suggests to him that he move overseas for a while: maybe ten years; people might have forgotten about him by then!
DES (gloomily): With my mother around to remind them?!
The front door opens suddenly and Jim comes in. He joins Paul and Des and Paul comments that he thought Jim would take *longer* to find Scott. Jim replies that he talked to the people in the town, but as soon as they heard what he was asking about, they clammed up. Paul mutters sarcastically:
PAUL: Yeah, well you did your best, didn't you, dad. That's the main thing.
Jim glares at his son. Paul glares back, and after a few seconds sighs:
PAUL: OK, maybe we should call a truce? This isn't helping Scott.
JIM (sourly): It's a bit late to be showing brotherly concern, isn't it?
PAUL: Dad...
JIM (snaps): Forget it. I'll do it myself.
With that, Jim marches off, leaving Des to ask Paul if Jim is still crook at him for bringing that bird home.
PAUL: Yeah, that and about four million other things. He just doesn't trust me.
DES: It's not *that* bad, surely?
PAUL: He doesn't like me much, either.
DES: Course he does. He's just upset about Scott; he'll get over it.
PAUL: Yeah, well, it's his problem, not mine.
Des then murmurs that he supposes this isn't a good time to ask.
PAUL: Ask what?
DES: Well, I was just wondering if you knew how Daphne really feels about me.
PAUL (looking astonished): You kidding?! She wants to nail your head to the coffee table!
DES: Yeah, apart from that! I mean... do you think if I went over there... talk to her... say I'm sorry?
PAUL: ‘Sorry'? Are you kidding me? Des, this is the best thing that's ever happened to you!
DES: How do you figure *that*?!
PAUL: Because you're free again! You're as free as a bird! You're single! Your life's your own again, mate. Just thank your lucky stars you got out in time.
Des doesn't look convinced.
Coffee Shop
Jim is standing by the counter talking to Mike and saying:
JIM: So you couldn't find out anything?
MIKE: Nobody knows where Scott is; he just shot through.
JIM: But what about what happened up there? Someone must know something.
MIKE: The kids don't want to talk about it.
JIM (sounding annoyed): *Nobody* wants to talk about it.
Zoe joins them and starts making some coffees. Jim asks her how she's enjoying the job. Zoe smiles that it's great. She adds that she knows it's awful to say, but she half wishes Daphne wasn't coming back, so she could run the place herself! She heads back off to serve the coffees, leaving Mike to say to Jim quietly:
MIKE: The three kids that were with Scott that night, they're all back now. I might be able to get them to talk to you.
JIM: When – tonight?
MIKE: Maybe tomorrow morning. I can't promise they'll have anything to say.
JIM: Well they can talk to me in the strictest of confidence. I just want to find out about Scott.
Zoe rejoins them and announces that she's got to get to the market. She heads out. Mike says to Jim:
MIKE: No promises, OK?
No. 22
Clive is sitting on the couch adding up some figures when Danny walks in through the front door and says assertively:
DANNY: Clive, I don't want any excuses this time. I've come for my pay.
CLIVE: Danny, I had to close down the business. We got arrested, remember?
DANNY: Yes, but that wasn't *my* fault – and I did the job.
CLIVE: Look, I'll be honest: I'm short of cash, all right?
DANNY: So am I. I've hardly got enough to take Marcie out for *dinner*, let alone go to Surfers Paradise. Even when you pay me, Clive, I'm not going to have enough.
Danny sits down next to Clive as Clive comments that that's bad luck. He then adds, though, that he bets if they put their heads together they could come up with a Plan B.
DANNY: What's Plan B?
CLIVE: Something cheaper and better than Plan A. Now let me think.
Clive stares into space for a few seconds and then declares that he's got it: Danny could rent a cabin in the mountains for next to nothing.
DANNY (groans): Marcie's not going to want to go to the mountains; she wants to go to *Surfers*.
Clive insists that the mountains are fabulous this time of year: Danny and Marcie can watch the early-morning sun lift the fog out of the valley; and in the evening they can watch the sunset holding hands.
DANNY (looking suddenly thoughtful): A cabin...
CLIVE: It'll be cold at night, too: you'll have to snuggle up together, in front of a log fire.
Daphne comes in suddenly. Seeing Danny sitting there, she glares at him and then slams the front door and marches upstairs. Danny says to Clive meekly:
DANNY: Think she's forgiven me?
CLIVE: Sure! It'll take a while to get it out of her system, but she'll be OK. Now, let's check the weather forecast!
Hotel
Douglas is walking through the hotel. Madge is standing in a telephone kiosk near the reception desk, watching him while she's waiting for her call to be answered. When it is, she says:
MADGE: Hello Helen, it's Madge. I've made contact with your Mr. Blake ... Oh yes, he's interested; in fact, he even made enquiries about the length of my stay ... Yes, who would have thought espionage would be something I would be good at?! ... No, no, no, I won't push the pace ... Our Mr. Blake will end up with just enough rope to make a nice tidy noose ... I will ... Bye bye.
With that, Madge hangs up, a sly expression on her face.
No. 22
Clive and Danny are still sitting on the couch. Daphne opens the front door to find Des standing on the step, holding a single red rose. She stares at him for a moment and then cries:
DAPHNE: Go away!
She slams the door in Des's face and yells tearfully:
DAPHNE: I never want to see you again.
She then runs off back upstairs. A few moments later, Clive heads to the front door and opens it. Des is still standing there holding the rose, which is now minus its flower. He hands the stalk to Clive, who nods at him and takes it!
Coffee Shop
A blonde girl walks up to the counter, where Mike is serving. A moment later, the door to the shop opens and Danny comes in. He walks up to the girl and says:
DANNY: Marcie, hi, it's me!
MARCIE (distantly): Hi.
DANNY (enthusiastically): I'm glad you're here. Marcie, I've arranged everything; it's all booked: a holiday in the mountains; a whole weekend. We can take the train there and we're staying in a little wood cabin with a view. It'll be wonderful: we can go for walks... we can sit around the pot-belly stove...
MARCIE (incredulously): A weekend in the mountains?
DANNY: It'll be better than Surfers
MARCIE (sounding irritated): Danny, have you met Duane? That's him over there.
Marcie indicates a young man sitting at one of the tables. She then continues:
MARCIE: Do you know where he's taking me? Fiji.
DANNY (looking astonished): *Fiji*?
MARCIE: For ten days. And we're staying in the best hotels and we're flying first-class all the way.
Duane stands up and joins Marcie. He indicates Danny and asks:
DUANE: Is this nerd bothering you?
MARCIE: Let's just go, Duane. We really ought to start packing – for our holiday. [She looks pointedly at Danny]
Danny sits there glumly. He then mutters under his breath:
DANNY: Nerd...?
No. 28
Des is making himself a cup of tea when the front door opens and Eileen bustles in, calling:
EILEEN: Oo-oo! Desmond!
DES (under his breath): Oh no...
Eileen walks over to her son, who asks wearily:
DES: What's going on?
EILEEN: Well I heard you were back – from someone else, of course: *you* wouldn't *dream* of relieving my anxiety, would you? Never mind, my son, I *can* forgive you for that, but what I *cannot* forgive you for is *you*.
DES (blankly): Mum, what are you talking about?
EILEEN: Your behaviour. I cannot possibly begin to understand what explanation there could be; however, I have begun to give notice on my unit and once I have moved in here--
DES (quickly): Oh no, if you think you're moving in here--
EILEEN (ignoring the interruption): ...there will be plenty of time for your excuses – for I have a duty, Desmond, and I will not shirk it. Oh, I know things look black now, but you can put the chaos and despair behind you, for I will take care of you.
DES (sighs): Mum, would you just stop talking and listen to me? You are *not* moving in here – and don't call me ‘Desmond'!
EILEEN: Oh, Desmond(!), you are so distraught, you poor boy! I know it is always black around you, but I have a responsibility and I will not turn from it.
The two of them sit down on the couch. Des insists curtly:
DES: I don't want you here.
EILEEN: When I think of the trauma your father gave me when he left... The very seeds of it were planted in you to relive the same devastation.
DES (insists): I am *not* suffering from trauma, and all this business *wasn't* my fault.
EILEEN: Desmond, you are so like your father. Please, do not avoid the responsibility; you've caused too much damage as it is.
DES: Mum, you can't move in here; I don't *want* you here.
EILEEN: But we are mother and son, Desmond. In a time of crisis, we must see it through together, come what may.
At that moment, the front door opens and Zoe comes in, smiling:
ZOE: Hello, Mrs. Clarke.
Des, seeing an opportunity suddenly, says quickly:
DES: Zoe! [Turning to Eileen] See, mum, this is what I've been trying to tell you: thanks for your kindness, but, um, the spare room has been taken – by Zoe.
EILEEN: But Desmond--
DES: You see, Zoe lost her room at Clive's place – because Daphne's living there.
EILEEN (looking puzzled): Clive has such a *big* house – four bedrooms, at least.
DES (hesitantly): Yeah... yeah... but each one of them are chock-a-block – aren't they, Zoe?
ZOE (catching on): Yeah! Yeah!
EILEEN: There is no hope for you, Desmond. None. You're your father's son.
With that, Eileen marches out. When she's gone, Des thanks Zoe for going along with him. Zoe just shrugs:
ZOE: Today OK?
DES (blankly): OK for what?
ZOE: Moving in.
DES: Zoe, no—
ZOE (ignoring him): Great!

Episode title: 0187
Australian airdate: 11/02/86
UK airdate: 22/07/87
UK Gold: 20/07/93
Writer: Philip Ryall
Director: Andrew Friedman
Guests:
Music:
Summary/Images by: Graham
Recap
Madge calling Helen from the hotel to tell her that she's made contact with Douglas Blake.
DS Worth asking Jim and Helen to identify a wallet that has been found on the body of a young man.
Paul comforting Helen while they wait for Jim to identify the body.
Jim closing his eyes sadly as he looks at the body found in the river.
No. 26
Paul sighs heavily. Helen, sitting next to him on the couch, asks irritatedly if he minds. Paul apologises. There's suddenly a knock on the front door and Max comes in, saying enthusiastically:
MAX: You heard from Scott? The way he took off, I knew it must be good news, eh?!
Paul and Helen sit there in silence, glum expressions on their faces. Max asks:
MAX: What is it? What's the matter?
HELEN (sadly): Max, a body was found in the river. Scott's wallet was found on it.
Helen breaks down into tears again. Looking shocked, Max murmurs:
MAX: Oh geez, no.
He suggests that he should shoot through. Helen, however, asks him to stay. She adds that Jim's gone to make the identification. At that moment, the front door opens and Jim comes in and says:
JIM: It wasn't Scott. It's all right. It was somebody else; someone else's kid.
He adds sadly that he has no idea who he is or how he came to have Scott's wallet. Max murmurs that it's probably stolen. Jim retorts curtly:
JIM: It's pretty obviously *stolen*, Max, but it's just what they had to do to him to *get* the wallet that bothers me.
Max asks what the cops are doing now. Jim sighs that the police have Scott's photo; they're doing what they can. Helen asks if they should start ringing around the hospitals. Jim, however, snaps that she can do what she likes; *he* can't stay inside; he's going to take the car up the highway. With that, he heads out again. Helen sits there, looking worried.
Hotel
Douglas is sitting in the reception area, reading a newspaper, when Madge walks up to the reception desk, clears her throat very loudly, and says to the receptionist:
MADGE: I'm afraid my suite is most unsatisfactory.
RECEPTIONIST: Oh I'm sorry, Mrs. Mitchell. What's wrong?
MADGE: It's like a shoebox; don't you have anything larger?
RECEPTIONIST: I don't think so. Just one moment – I'll check for you.
While Madge waits, she looks over at Douglas, who begins to fold up his newspaper. She then turns back to the receptionist, who says:
RECEPTIONIST: All the largest suites are occupied, Mrs. Mitchell. There's only the Presidential Suite: I'm afraid that's very expensive.
MADGE (airily): I'm not interested in the tariff. I just want some elbow room, that's all. The Presidential Suite will do nicely. See that my baggage is moved there. I'm off to the jeweller now; I trust everything will be in order when I get back.
With that, Madge turns to head out, but Douglas is now standing right behind her and she bumps into him. He says quickly:
DOUGLAS: I'm terribly sorry.
MADGE (tersely): I should *think* so.
DOUGLAS: I've scuffed your shoe. Forgive me - I really am sorry. Sometimes I think I'm the clumsiest man in the world.
MADGE (coolly): Just as long as you realise it.
Madge goes to walk off, but Douglas says quickly:
DOUGLAS: Oh wait, please, Mrs. Mitchell.
MADGE (sharply): How did you know my name?
DOUGLAS: I heard the receptionist call you ‘Mrs. Mitchell'. It's very rude – I know we haven't been properly introduced, but we did meet the other day by the elevator.
MADGE (‘recalls'): Oh yes!
DOUGLAS: My name is Douglas Manning. Have I damaged your shoe?
MADGE: No damage – and the pain was as fleeting as this encounter must be. Good day, Mr. Manning.
Madge tries again to walk away, but Douglas says:
DOUGLAS: Mrs. Mitchell – *please*, Mrs. Mitchell – allow me at least to repay you for my clumsiness. Will you permit me to buy you lunch?
MADGE (coolly): No thank you. [Pause] You could buy me dinner, though.
DOUGLAS: Splendid. Shall we meet in the cocktail bar, shortly before then?
MADGE: Why not? Say... eight o'clock?
With that, Madge walks off, leaving Douglas standing there looking pleased with himself.
No. 24
Shane and Max are sorting out washing on the lounge room floor when Clive comes in through the open front door and calls:
CLIVE: Hey, Shane! RAGGS has got a job! You ready?
Shane asks where the job is. Clive smiles that it's at a big house with a pool and a vision named Beth Travers! Max warns Shane to keep his mind on the job!
Pacific Bank
Danny is working behind the counter, counting money. Des walks over to him and, slapping him on the back, nods:
DES: Danny.
DANNY: Des. Didn't see you there, mate.
Madge walks in and, heading towards Danny, comments that he's looking very smart today. She then asks Des for her safety deposit box. While Des gets it, Madge gets Danny to give her a twirl in his new suit! She then smiles that she's very proud of him! Des returns with Madge's safety deposit box. As she takes it, she tells Des curtly that she won't need his assistance, and, looking slightly put-out, he walks away. Madge then opens the box and takes out a ring. Danny stares at it and gasps:
DANNY: Holy cow! Is that yours?
MADGE: Just part of the reward for a lifetime of hard work.
Danny takes a closer look at it and asks how much Madge reckons it would be worth. She tells him quietly:
MADGE: I had it valued a few weeks back.
DANNY: And?
MADGE: Ten thousand.
DANNY (astonished): *Ten*? Ten thousand?
MADGE: That's just the *stone*, let alone the gold.
DANNY (declares): *I'll* be able to buy things like this one day, aunty, so help me I will.
MADGE (declares): Determination will get you there, Danny. Determination and hard work.
Danny smiles at her.
Beth Travers' back garden
An attractive woman is lying on a sun lounger. Clive and Shane approach her and Clive tells Shane to let *him* do all the talking. He walks towards Beth Travers and says he'll be with her in a moment: he's just got to issue a few orders. He then rejoins Shane and tells him to put down the tools he's carrying and then get the rest of the stuff from the van. Shane, however, says quickly:
SHANE: Hang on! Hang on! What *is* this?
CLIVE: Something wrong?
SHANE: What's all this ‘do this, do that' number? It's a partnership, remember?
Clive insists:
CLIVE: Of *course* it's a partnership: *I'm* putting in my organisational ability at the moment and *you're* supplying the brawn.
He adds that as soon as he and Beth have worked out the plans, he'll join Shane with the digging. Shane sighs and goes and puts the tools down. Clive heads over and sits on the end of Beth Travers' sunlounger and the two of them start discussing what the garden should look like. Shane looks over at them, a frown on his face.
No. 26
Helen is cleaning the kitchen when there's a knock on the back door and Madge calls to ask if anyone's home. Helen invites her in and tells Madge that she's so glad she called: she'll stop her from going round the house for the third time.
MADGE: No word yet?
Helen shakes her head.
MADGE (sympathetically): Oh dear, I'm so sorry. I just wish there was something I could *do*.
HELEN: I don't think there's anything else that *can* be done. It's a terrible business.
The two of them go and sit down at the table and Madge says:
MADGE: I met Mr. Blake again today – or rather, he made himself known to me. He introduced himself as Douglas Manning.
HELEN (muses): Of course... he'd *have* to use a false name. No doubt he turned on the charm--
MADGE: Oh, *that's* an understatement! He's asked me to have dinner with him tonight. I just thought, in the circumstances, you'd prefer it if I arrange to meet him some *other* time.
HELEN (quickly): No, don't do that. Such a sly old fox – it might be the only opportunity we'll get. Have you been to the bank?
Madge holds out her right hand and shows Helen the ring.
HELEN (exclaims): Oh Madge, it's beautiful.
MADGE: Yes. I'm not looking forward to having the stone removed, I must admit.
HELEN: Look, I don't want to force you into doing anything you don't *want* to do. I'll understand if you want to back out.
MADGE: No! Oh, no! If you're willing, I am!
Helen smiles at Madge gratefully.
Beth Travers' back garden
Clive is lying on a sunlounger next to Beth as Shane works hard on the other side of the pool, digging over a plot of land. Clive is musing to Beth that he thinks Rio would be a good place to see; he's clearly trying to chat her up! Beth, however, turns and stares at Shane, whose muscles are clearly visible beneath his skimpy top! Beth tells Clive:
BETH: I think he should rest for a while. It's awfully hot.
CLIVE: Oh, *he's* OK!
Beth, however, ignores Clive and calls:
BETH: Shane... why don't you try the pool?
SHANE (smiles): Thank you. I will.
Beth then asks Clive if he's going to join them. He declines, though, saying he has to work on the plans. Shane takes off his top and Beth removes the light robe she's wearing. They both then dive into the pool, from opposite ends, and swim to the side, where Beth says:
BETH: You dive very well!
SHANE: Thank you!
BETH: Clive told me you couldn't do it anymore.
Shane gives her a look of astonishment!
BETH: Dive, I mean! Must have been a terrible blow for you, not making the Olympics?
SHANE (shrugs): Life goes on.
BETH: Yeah. I suffered a recent loss *myself*.
SHANE: Oh?
BETH: My husband. It isn't easy.
SHANE: I'm sorry.
BETH: Well... as it turned out, it was probably the best thing for *both* of us.
Shane gives Beth another look. She smiles:
BETH: Don't look so serious! Would you like to have dinner with me tonight?
SHANE: Yeah. Thank you! That would be great!
BETH: Good! It's a date! I'll get you a towel.
With that, Beth swims over to the sunloungers. Clive joins Shane on the other side of the pool and asks him what he's grinning about.
SHANE: Nothing!
CLIVE (tersely): You've had your fun. Get back to work. I'm just about to ask her out.
SHANE (grins): I don't know about *that*, mate: she may've just made other plans...

Episode title: 0189
Australian airdate: 13/02/86
UK airdate: 24/07/87
UK Gold: 22/07/93
Writer: Kaye Bendle
Director: Andrew Friedman
Guests:
Music:
Summary/Images by: Graham
Recap
The nurse at the hospital asking Scott if he's thought any more about going home. Scott sighing that he can't talk to his dad over the ‘phone.
Douglas Blake telling Madge that he could take her diamonds to be valued. Madge suggesting that she just give Douglas the diamond she has with her adding that she trusts him not to run off with it.
Scott calling Jim from the hospital. Jim looking immensely relieved to hear from him.
No. 26
Helen joins Jim in the kitchen, asking him if he knows where Scott's good shoes are. Jim is in the middle of cleaning those shoes! Paul comes in and asks what's going on.
JIM (happily): We've found Scott!
PAUL (exclaims): What?! Is he all right?
JIM: He sounded fine to *me*. Never thought I'd enjoy cleaning a pair of shoes so much!
PAUL: I'll give you some of *mine*, then!
Jim, however, explains that this is a one-off: the hospital wants some clean clothes for Scott to come home in. Paul asks in concern what Scott's doing in hospital.
JIM: I guess I'll find that out when I get there – but it can't be *too* serious, otherwise they wouldn't be saying to come and pick him up.
Paul asks which hospital it is. Helen replies that it's some little place in the back of nowhere. Paul tells Jim that he'll come with him. Jim starts to protest that he doesn't think that's a very good idea, but Paul retorts:
PAUL: Dad, Scott's my brother. I want to go with you.
JIM (sighs): All right – but we're going right now: it's going to take us an hour to get there.
With that, the two of them head out, just as Madge comes in through the back door. Helen tells her happily that they've found Scott and he's OK. Madge beams that she's so pleased! Helen adds:
HELEN: I'm going to hug that boy to pieces!
St. Agnes Memorial Hospital
Jim and Paul have arrived at the hospital. They find Scott's room and head inside. Scott is lying asleep and Jim goes and touches him gently on the face. Scott sits up, suddenly, looking slightly taken aback. He then murmurs:
SCOTT: Dad. Paul. Sorry – I'm still a bit jumpy.
Jim tells him to take it easy. Paul looks at his brother and says:
PAUL: What's your game, vanishing like that?! I was beginning to get scared to look in a paper in case I saw your ugly mush staring out at me!
SCOTT: So was *I*. I was just trying to get home. The school safari turned into a disaster. I thought the police might be looking for me, so I decided to leave. I hitched a lift, got clobbered and ended up in here.
JIM: Well I *have* warned you about doing crazy things like that.
SCOTT: I know. I guess I wasn't thinking too straight.
Jim then asks his son why he didn't telephone.
SCOTT: I thought home would be the *first* place the police would be looking for me.
JIM (sighs): Oh well – the main thing is you're all right. Let's get you home, eh?
Pacific Bank
Danny hangs up the ‘phone and turns to Des and tells him that Scott is all right: Jim and Paul have gone to pick him up. Des exclaims that that's great news! He adds that he wonders what the story is.
DANNY: I don't know. I guess I'll find out later on.
DES: Yeah – no doubt you two will be getting up to your old tricks again!
DANNY (firmly): *I* certainly won't be getting up to any old tricks, Des. You're forgetting: I'm part of the workforce now. Scott's still at school.
DES (muses): How could I forget?!
DANNY: Scott's still of the opinion that life is for having fun—
The two of them are interrupted by Zoe rushing in and crying that she's in a real fix: there are all these people at the Coffee Shop and she can't cope on her own and there's no food prepared – so she shut up shop.
DES (gasps in horror): You did *what*?
ZOE: Well what else could I do? I can't cook like Daphne can.
DANNY: Zoe, I don't see what you're worried about. All you need to do is get some of the students from the Tech to do the cooking. The job market being the way--
DES (sighs): Danny, if you don't shut up, *you'll* be out of a job! Zoe, you must be able to cook *something*?
ZOE: I make a nice tuna casserole—
Des interrupts and explains that he was thinking more in the line of what they have at the Coffee Shop.
ZOE (shrugs): Well I don't know. I used to be all right with soya burgers and alfalfa salads when I was a vegetarian--
DES: Great! Great! Now, you go back to the Coffee Shop and take everything off the menu except, what, hamburgers... salads... and sandwiches; come on: you can cook sandwiches!
ZOE (indignantly): Of course I can – I'm not a *complete* klutz!
DES: Zoe, you're supposed to be *helping* Daphne, not sending her bankrupt. Now don't ever shut-up shop again.
With that, Zoe heads off reluctantly. When she's gone, Danny muses:
DANNY: She's certainly not another Daphne!
DES: No...
DANNY: Daphne's a good cook... good worker... *and* good looking.
Des stares at him and mutters:
DES: Just can it, Danny, will you?
No. 26
Helen is talking on the ‘phone telling Jim that she can't wait to see Scott. Nikki comes in through the front door as Helen hangs up. Nikki says quickly:
NIKKI: Scott's OK?
HELEN: He's fine!
As the two of them head through to the kitchen, Helen explains that Paul and Jim are bringing Scott home via the police station: the Sergeant wants to question him about the murdered boy. Nikki asks what *happened* to Scott. Helen explains that he was hitchhiking home, some thugs picked him up and mugged him. She then adds:
HELEN: Now, Nikki, I want you to promise me that *you* won't go hitchhiking or wandering off somewhere all alone. This isn't a country town, you know.
NIKKI (indignantly): Aunty Helen, I'm not a child. Anyway, I don't go to the sorts of places where that happens.
HELEN (sternly): *No* place is a safe place. Hitchhiking is *out*.
Changing the subject, Helen tells Nikki that she has *another* surprise for her.
NIKKI (eagerly): What is it?
HELEN: I seem to remember a certain young lady wanting some friends over to visit...
NIKKI: You mean Jane and William can really come to dinner?
HELEN: How about next week?
NIKKI (throwing her arms around Helen): Oh Aunty Helen, that's great!

Episode title: 0191
Australian airdate: 17/02/86
UK airdate: 28/07/87
UK Gold: 26/07/93
Writer: Greg Stevens
Director: Brendan Maher
Guests: Douglas Blake – James Condon
Burt Rawlings – Neil Thompson
Receptionist – Sandy Stayfer
Music:
Summary/Images by: Graham
Recap
Beth Travers turning up at the Ramsays' and asking to see Shane. Max looking impressed!
Madge telling Helen that Douglas doesn't suspect anything. Helen warning Madge not to let her guard down.
Rawlings demanding $500 from Douglas Blake to hold off from telling Helen for 24 hours where Douglas is.
No. 26/Hotel
Helen is sitting reading a magazine, looking impatient, when the ‘phone rings. She goes and answers it. Rawlings comes on and says:
RAWLINGS: Burt Rawlings, Mrs. Daniels. He took the bait. I gave him 24 hours; *that* should hurry him up.
HELEN (delightedly): Excellent, Mr. Rawlings – you've done well! We can expect to hear from our Mr. Blake very soon, then?
RAWLINGS: If he's the sort of con *I'm* used to, he'll make his move quick-smart; nothing scares them more than a little heat.
HELEN: I hope you're profited from the exchange?
RAWLINGS: Five hundred!
HELEN: Well you deserve every penny! Thank you again and goodbye.
Helen hangs up hurriedly as Paul arrives home. She asks him how his day was and he replies that he had some good sales. Helen then tells him that Zoe called. Paul asks what she wanted.
HELEN: Well, it's always a little hard to know with Zoe! I think she wanted you to go out with her.
PAUL: What – *tonight*?
HELEN: Mmm.
Paul, however, says he can't: he brought home a stack of paperwork that needs to be done by tomorrow. He adds that he'll go and see her later. Changing the subject, Helen says:
HELEN: I had a letter from America today.
PAUL: Oh yeah? Anyone I know?
HELEN: Rosemary. She's arriving sometime this week.
PAUL: For how long?
HELEN: Not all that long – so the least you can do is be pleasant to her; she *is* your aunt.
PAUL (coolly): She also sacked me from that insurance job, remember?
HELEN (retorts): From all accounts, Paul, she had every right.
PAUL (mutters): She only did it to show her boyfriend what a tough operator she was.
HELEN: *I* thought it was because you spent too much time acting the fool with the typists...
PAUL: Yeah, well, that's the excuse *she* used. The problem with Rosemary is she wouldn't know a good time if she fell over it.
HELEN: It sounds as if your nose is still out of joint.
PAUL (coldly): Gran, Rosemary is a pushy and aggressive woman who uses people. She always has to come out on top. Now, I don't like her and I don't like her type – and if it comes to the point, I'll say it to her face.
HELEN (curtly): You'll do no such thing. As long as she's here—
PAUL: As long as she's here, gran, I'll be around as little as possible. Why don't you just face the fact that Rosemary's nothing but an out-and-out bitch—
HELEN: Paul!
PAUL: Well she *is*.
With that, Paul storms off.
No. 24
Clive is standing with Shane in the kitchen exclaiming that it's great that Beth Travers has agreed to take them back. Shane tells him that there's a price: he had to agree to go out with her again. Clive insists that *he* was the one Beth was interested in first, not Shane. Shane, however, retorts that he only muscled in because Clive was playing Lord Muck and *he* was doing all the work. He adds that they're supposed to be a *partnership*. Danny joins them and says:
DANNY: That's where you made your first mistake: the Conrad system: fool's utopia. Capitalism's the only way to go.
Shane mutters at Danny to keep his opinions to himself. He then adds:
SHANE: I thought it would have been perfectly obvious to you, Danny, with your penetrating political insight: there's no such thing as a free lunch, all right; I agree to go out with Beth: what am I expected to do in return, eh?
DANNY (shrugs): Kiss her goodnight?!
No. 26
Daphne sits down with Helen at the kitchen counter and smiles:
DAPHNE: It was wonderful! Fresh air... no crowds... I *love* the mountains. I just wish I could get up there more often.
HELEN: There's no one stopping you.
DAPHNE: Not anymore...
Daphne then asks Helen if she's got the place to herself. Helen explains that Paul's around somewhere, but they're not talking: they've had a bit of an argument. She goes on:
HELEN: I have an adopted daughter who's coming home to Australia for a while. Her name's Rosemary. Unfortunately, she and Paul don't get on – or should I say: Paul doesn't get on with Rosemary, put it that way.
DAPHNE (muses): Paul seems to be having that problem with a *lot* of people lately. What happened?
HELEN: Well... a couple of years ago, she gave him a part-time job and there were a few problems, and it fell to her to sack him.
DAPHNE: And Paul's pride still hasn't recovered?
HELEN: That's about it. Still, it's *his* problem; we have enough worries without worrying about other people's.
DAPHNE (looking surprised): I didn't think *you* had any problems.
HELEN: Well, not so much a problem...
Daphne stares at Helen, who smiles:
HELEN: I have to tell somebody or I'll go crazy! Do you remember Douglas Blake?
DAPHNE (looking worried): Don't tell me he's back?
HELEN: He's back, but hopefully not for long. Whoever said ‘revenge is sweet' certainly knew what they were talking about...
Hotel
Max is at the hotel! He walks up to the reception desk, puts down a set of keys and tells the receptionist:
MAX: There you go. Plays up again, give us a call, won't you?
Max then turns to leave – but as he does so, he spots Douglas sitting in the reception area, reading a newspaper. Turning back to the receptionist, Max says urgently:
MAX: That bloke over there, reading the paper: he staying here?
The receptionist looks across the reception area, but Douglas has gone. She tells Max in surprise:
RECEPTIONIST: There's* no one* reading a paper.
Max turns and looks in astonishment at the now-empty chair.
No. 26
A while later, Max is standing in the lounge room of No. 26 with Helen and Daphne, ranting:
MAX: I mean, there he was, large as life, reading the paper. Wouldn't think he had a care in the world.
DAPHNE: Who?
MAX: That Blake bloke. You know – took Helen's money.
DAPHNE (mouths): Oh.
MAX (to Helen): I tried to catch him for you; he was too quick off the mark, but.
Helen just turns away, causing Max to ask in surprise if she isn't pleased. Daphne decides to head off, leaving Max to demand from Helen what's going on. Helen tells him to sit down. She then explains:
HELEN: Douglas was supposed to be meeting Madge at the Regal this afternoon.
MAX (looking surprised): Madge? What for?
HELEN: Because, between the two of us, we've worked out a way to beat the man at his own game.
MAX (looking astonished): What?
HELEN: He swindled me out of $50,000 and we're going to do the same to him.
MAX (aghast): Are you *crazy*? Yous could both end up in more strife than Flash Gordon!
HELEN: I doubt it – though all our efforts could be a waste of time, now: he's not going to turn up with *you* hanging around.
MAX (mutters): I reckon I've done Madge a favour.
HELEN (demands): What on earth makes you think *that*?
MAX (snaps): Listen, I don't like the idea of you putting my sister in danger; you and your dirty work.
HELEN (retorts): Madge knew exactly what she was letting herself in for, Max. She didn't object in the slightest.
MAX: She wants her stupid head read.
HELEN: Look, it was the only way I had to get even with Douglas. You don't think he should get off scot free for what he did, do you?
MAX: Well, no, no, of course not.
HELEN: Then stop making such a fuss and pray to goodness that the man's as greedy as I think he is.
Max sits there, looking worried.
No. 28
Daphne sits down at the dining table, a set of books in front of her, and exclaims:
DAPHNE: I don't believe it! You've been through three cooks... you took money from the till to pay for champagne—
Zoe, who's standing behind the kitchen counter, insists:
ZOE: It was a bargain!
DAPHNE: It wasn't yours to take in the first place.
ZOE: Well, I paid it back.
DAPHNE: Only after you borrowed it from *Des*.
Standing up, Daphne goes on:
DAPHNE: This place is a mess. I hope the *Coffee Shop's* a bit more tidy.

Episode title: 0193
Australian airdate: 19/02/86
UK airdate: 30/07/87
UK Gold: 28/07/93
Writer:
Director: Brendan Maher
Guests: Barbara Young – Rona McLeod
David Young – Stewart Faichney
Music:
Summary/Images by: Graham
Recap
Des telling Daphne that it's time they started acting like adults. Daphne telling Des that things between them are over.
Mike confronting his father. Mr. Young pushing his wife to the floor.
Mike arriving at the Coffee Shop and telling Daphne that he thinks he's killed his father.
Coffee Shop/Young house
Daphne helps Mike to a table and says in an urgent tone:
DAPHNE: Now tell me what you did.
MIKE (sounding distressed): He was just *lying* there because of me; I...
DAPHNE: He's given you another hiding?
MIKE: He tried. I've never hit back before. He wasn't expecting... he.... he just lost his balance and cracked his head when he went down.
DAPHNE: What did *you* do?
MIKE: He was just lying there. I ran.
Daphne stands up and heads behind the counter. Mike asks her what she's doing.
DAPHNE: I'm calling your mother.
MIKE (looking afraid): No!
DAPHNE: You can't afford to behave like a scared kid. Whatever the situation is back there, you're going to have to handle it.
The ‘phone rings at the Young house and Mrs. Young answers, crying:
MRS. YOUNG: Mike?
Daphne comes on, however. Mr. Young joins his wife and demands of her:
MR. YOUNG: Is that him?
MRS. YOUNG: It's that girl from the Coffee Shop.
Daphne tells Mrs. Young that she has Mike with her, and she asks if his father's all right. Mr. Young just snaps loudly so that Daphne can hear:
MR. YOUNG: You tell him to come home - *now*.
At the Coffee Shop, Daphne tells Mike that his father's got a fair bit to say; he doesn't sound too badly hurt to *her*. She then says down the ‘phone:
DAPHNE: Mrs. Young, I think Mike should stay at *my* place tonight.
MRS. YOUNG: No! He's to come home at once.
MR. YOUNG (demands loudly): Put him on the ‘phone; I want to talk to him.
MRS. YOUNG (to Daphne): Look, you've got no right to keep Mike there. I'm sure the *police* would agree with me.
DAPHNE (tersely): Well that's up to you. I'm sure they'd be very interested in the bruises on Mike's face...
Mr. Young takes the ‘phone from his wife and growls at Daphne:
MR. YOUNG: Listen to me: this concerns *my* family and has nothing to do with you. Put that boy in a taxi and send him back here.
Daphne, however, just retorts coolly:
DAPHNE: My address is 22 Ramsay Street, Erinsborough, Mr. Young. I'll expect you both in the morning and not before, or *I'll* be the one calling the police. Goodnight.
With that, Daphne hangs up and looks at Mike sympathetically.
No. 24
Danny arrives home to find Max still trying to work out his accounts. Danny sighs at his father that he's still stuck in the 19th century! He adds that his computer course has really opened up his eyes: if *they* had one, it would take care of all the details and leave Max time to think. Max, however, demands to know what he's supposed to do if there's a power blackout! Shane comes in through the back door at that moment, following his date with Beth Travers. Max turns to him and comments that he's home early. Shane mutters at him to lay off it. Danny, however, tells his brother:
DANNY: You can't blame us for being curious, Shane. Most guys would give their eye teeth to be raced off by a beautiful chick!
MAX: With money!
Shane, sitting down at the table, sighs:
SHANE: It's not *like* that. It's *weird*.
MAX: How do you mean ‘weird'?
SHANE: She's strange... She was married at 17.
DANNY (exclaims): Seventeen? Strewth! Guy could ruin his career, tying himself up that young!
MAX (to Shane): I get the impression you're not exactly enthusiastic, son. That stupid partner of yours been in your ear, has he?
SHANE (murmurs): No, Clive's got nothing to do with it, dad.
MAX: Even so... not often I agree with you brother, but when I was your age, if a beautiful woman come chasing after me, fancy presents thrown in, I wouldn't say no!
Shane just rolls his eyes!
No. 22
Clive is looking at Mike‘s facial injuries and commenting to him and Daphne that there are some bad contusions and some swelling, but no fractures. He adds quickly that he's not an expert; if they go to the police, they'll take Mike straight to a doctor. Mike cries quickly that he doesn't want the police involved. Clive tells Mike that it might help if they knew why this was happening. Mike hesitates before murmuring:
MIKE: Dad doesn't drink or anything; he just blows his stack. I went back to try and make it work ‘cos mum asked me to, but it was just like before. He starts on *her*, but he's watching *me*: as soon as I say anything, I'm next.
CLIVE: It's not all one way, Mike: if things at home can't be fixed, I know a place that's been helping kids like you for quite some time.
MIKE (murmurs): Maybe; I don't know if I could leave mum there with him.
CLIVE: Get some ice on that face: it'll take the swelling down.
With that, Mike heads off to the kitchen, leaving Daphne to remark to Clive:
DAPHNE: You know a lot about bruises...

Episode title: 0195
Australian airdate: 21/02/86
UK airdate: 03/08/87
UK Gold: 30/07/93
Writer: Roger Moulton
Director: Brendan Maher
Guests: Rosemary Daniels – Joy Chambers
Music:
Summary/Images by: Graham
Recap
Rosemary looking incredulous after Paul tells her that he was used by the guy she was seeing (Brian) because Brian wanted to get rid of her.
No. 26
Rosemary tells Paul:
ROSEMARY: Paul, you're wrong – completely wrong.
PAUL (retorts): Oh? That's the reason I had to *leave*.
ROSEMARY: It's not. You weren't suited to that job – be honest. I didn't need to make up excuses to fire you; and you haven't changed: you still won't take responsibility for your own failures.
PAUL (mutters): Yeah, well it wasn't just *me*. The whole place was going downhill, wasn't it?
ROSEMARY: *Yes*, thanks to Brian: he was hardly more competent than *you* were. I could've *saved* that business if he'd given me free rein with it. Look what I've achieved since we've broken up – and *he's* achieved *nothing*.
PAUL (snaps): That doesn't change *anything*. I mean – he still got rid of *me* to cause a rift with *you*.
ROSEMARY (retorts): I pity you if you believe that.
Rosemary then tells Helen that she's going to her hotel. Helen turns to Paul and mutters that she's got a few things to say to him. She gives Rosemary a hug and wishes her goodnight, and Rosemary heads off. Helen then turns back to Paul, who starts to say:
PAUL: Gran, before you say anything--
HELEN (angrily): How *dare* you speak to Rosemary like that? You behaved like a malicious child.
PAUL: Oh come on, she's only your *adopted* child.
HELEN (coolly): *Yes*, she's adopted - *I* adopted her – but I love her. Now, this is my house as much as it's yours, and you'll respect that. I will not have you drive my daughter away.
With that, Helen storms off, leaving Paul looking thoughtful.
Ramsay Street
The next morning, Danny, Paul and Nikki are kicking a football around in the street. Max comes down the path of No. 22 and jogs over to where Jim is doing some gardening. He tells Jim that he thought he might pop down the TAB this morning and then set the telly up by the pool this arvo. Jim smiles that that sounds great. Max heads off just as Madge walks along and joins Jim and Helen, who's pushing a wheelbarrow over to where Jim is working. Madge asks Helen how it went last night.
HELEN: Well apart from the behaviour of my eldest grandson...
MADGE: Feel like a cup of tea and a chat?
Helen smiles that she'll be there as soon as the kettle's boiled!
No. 26
Scott, Nikki, Danny and Paul head inside and sit down. Paul says to Nikki:
PAUL: Listen – how did you go with Lord Fauntleroy last night?
SCOTT (smiles): You mean Billy Hughes?! He had to leave after dinner!
DANNY (laughs): Yeah – we weren't quite of his class!
Nikki mutters that William probably won't want to *see* her again after the way he was treated. Paul, putting on a posh voice, teases:
PAUL: Listen – if you want a new boyfriend, you could always look him up in the ‘Who's Who', couldn't you?!
NIKKI (sighs): I'll probably end up marrying the boy next door.
Danny says he thinks William has had it too easy: *he* looks up to people who have *earned* their money – like Rosemary. Jim joins them and remarks that Rosemary has been very successful since she's been overseas.
PAUL (mutters): Yeah, and look where it's got her: she's pushy... aggressive...
JIM: She *had* to be like that to be successful in business.
SCOTT: She's got drive, that's all. Isn't that what you tried to teach Paul and me, dad?
At that moment, Rosemary comes in through the open front door and says hello to everyone. She asks where Helen is, and Jim tells her that she's next door, visiting Madge. Danny offers to take Rosemary over there and the two of them head off. When they've gone, Jim says coolly to Paul, Nikki and Scott:
JIM: Now listen, you guys: you've got to stop all this talk about Rosemary. She could easily have overheard us.
PAUL (tersely): Dad, you feel the same way about her as *I* do. Surely we can express our feelings in our own house?
JIM (warns): For your grandmother's sake, just keep the peace.
NIKKI: She won't be staying long, will she? I mean, it *is* only a quick visit?
JIM: As far as I know she won't be staying long – so you, especially, Paul, watch what you say.
PAUL (sighs): OK, OK, I won't say anything. Mind you, she never holds back from speaking *her* own mind, so I don't see why *I* should.
JIM (snaps): There's a very *good* reason: because I *said*.
No. 24
The front door opens at No. 24 and Danny comes in with Rosemary. He smiles at Helen and Madge:
DANNY: Look who I've brought!
Helen smiles at her daughter that she thought she'd still be sleeping! Madge beams at Rosemary that it's lovely to see her. Danny then asks Madge to put the jug on for a fresh pot of tea and, looking bemused, Madge nods:
MADGE: Oh. Of course!
Danny, Rosemary and Helen sit down and Helen tells Rosemary that she had a talk to Paul last night and there won't be a repetition of that little outburst. Danny asks what they're talking about. Helen explains hesitantly:
HELEN: Well, Rosemary had to dismiss him from a job once: he wasn't pulling his weight.
DANNY (shrugs): He can't complain then. [To Rosemary] I'm sure you did the right thing.
Madge rejoins them and serves Rosemary with her tea. She then suggests to Danny that he go back next door, as she, Helen and Rosemary are going to be reminiscing. Danny nods OK. He then turns to Rosemary and adds:
DANNY: I hope we get a chance to talk soon – I'd appreciate your advice on the stockmarket.
ROSEMARY (looking surprised): Why – do you have some money to invest?
DANNY: I've been saving. I don't have much yet, but they say it's the best way to make a quick killing.
Rosemary, however, warns:
ROSEMARY: Don't count on it, Danny. I mean, stockbrokers might do well, but new investors can easily get their fingers burnt.
DANNY: That's why I'd value *your* advice more than anyone.
ROSEMARY (smiles): Well, we'll talk soon!
Looking delighted, Danny heads out, leaving Madge to comment to Helen and Rosemary:
MADGE: He's growing up – not as quickly as he thinks he is, but at least he's taking life a bit more seriously.
Rosemary smiles that she can see that! She then asks Madge how Fred is. Madge tells her that, actually, she's single again: they've separated. Rosemary says she's sorry. Madge comments to Rosemary:
MADGE: And *you* haven't married?
ROSEMARY (looking slightly sad): No, I haven't found time.
MADGE: I *wouldn't* either, if I were you. You hang on to your independence.
HELEN: You can be independent *and* married, with the right man.
ROSEMARY (sighs): Yes, well, *my* trouble is that most men seemed scared to get close to me because I'm successful in their world of business. They see me as a threat.
MADGE: The price of success!
ROSEMARY (murmurs): Yes. I've been realising lately that it's time I made a few changes...
No. 26
Nikki, Danny, Scott and Jim are in the kitchen at No. 26 and Nikki is commenting that it's weird how self-made millionaires make a fortune. Jim, however, points out that if she's thinking about Rosemary, she had a lot of specialist training before she set up in business. Nikki insists that she's still got natural flair. Jim tells Danny that he should check with Rosemary about the business of getting properly trained. Danny nods that it's a good idea – and if she recommends a course, he'll do it. Nikki asks Danny suddenly if he can give her a hand. The two of them head into the lounge room, where Nikki says awkwardly:
NIKKI: Danny... I was wondering: would you like to go to the movies with me tonight?
DANNY (shrugs): If you like!
Danny then turns his head to the kitchen and calls:
DANNY: Scott, do you want to go to the movies tonight?
SCOTT: Yeah, OK!
Danny turns back and smiles at Nikki. Nikki just glares at him and marches off!
No. 24
As Madge clears away the tea things, Helen tells Rosemary that *she* could never keep up her daughter's pace: her private time and her space are important to her. Rosemary, however, comments that Helen doesn't seem to have much of *either*: how much time does she really get to paint?
HELEN: Five or six hours a week.
ROSEMARY (looking incredulous): Only five or six in a whole week? You probably spend three times that much cooking meals for a family who are quite capable of doing it for themselves.
MADGE: Not if they're like Max and the boys: they couldn't *begin* to fend for themselves!
ROSEMARY: But you haven't *always* lived here, Madge. They'd cope when they had to – but as long as you *are* here, they'll take advantage of you. Didn't you notice the way Danny practically ordered you to put the jug on to make a cup of tea? I mean, why couldn't he do it for himself? He *could*.
HELEN: I don't believe my family take advantage of *me*.
ROSEMARY: No, but they certainly take you for granted. Did you hear what Scott said last night after he'd finished cleaning the kitchen? “Your kitchen is spotless, gran.” *Your kitchen*: in his mind, that's your space, the kitchen, mum.
MADGE: Yes, but what can we *do*? I mean, this place would be chaotic if I wasn't here running it.
ROSEMARY: Maybe, maybe not. At least you'd have some time and space of your own; a chance to find yourself – or do you find that prospect daunting, Madge?
HELEN (grins): Rosemary, you haven't changed: as blunt as ever!
ROSEMARY: I'm sorry – but you both seem afraid to make any changes. The world won't end, you know? I mean, wouldn't you both like to have more time to yourselves? Wouldn't you both like to experiment a little with your lives?

Episode title: 0197
Australian airdate: 25/02/86
UK airdate: 05/08/87
UK Gold: 03/08/93
Writer:
Director: Julian McSwiney
Guests: Rosemary Daniels – Joy Chambers
Music:
Summary/Images by: Graham
Recap
Max winning $500 on the horses.
Scott telling Jim not to go off at him for being annoyed at the idea of Helen leaving.
Nikki telling Jim that Scott is failing Maths and is really depressed about it.
Rosemary and Jim arguing about how the Robinsons treat Helen. Helen interrupting them and announcing that she's made up her mind about the job.
No. 26
Rosemary stares at Helen and asks:
ROSEMARY: Why – what's your decision?
HELEN (hesitantly): I- I'm staying with Jim and the family.
ROSEMARY (angrily): But you can't *do* this to yourself.
HELEN (gently): I'm sorry, darling.
JIM: We really appreciate it, Helen, but we don't want you doing it for us because you're sorry for us.
ROSEMARY (contemptuously): Of *course* that's why she's doing it, as you're so very well aware, so spare us the hearts and flowers.
Helen, however, cries at them to stop it. She then admits:
HELEN: I *need* this family. I'm *part* of them.
ROSEMARY (mutters): Well if that's your decision, I'll just have to live with it.
With that, Rosemary turns and leaves. Helen sighs heavily.
No. 24
The Ramsays are all sitting having breakfast. Max is pointing out to Danny that he said every horse in the system won on Saturday. Danny warns his father that he can't put his whole $500 winnings on one horse, and Madge chips in that a fool and his money are soon parted. Shane points out that all these systems have drawbacks – otherwise they'd all be living on the Riviera. Danny stands up from the table and makes to leave. Max stops him, however, and tells him that the theory of making profits is that you plough money back in. Danny doesn't look convinced.
Coffee Shop
Daphne and Zoe are working in the kitchen, Zoe enthusing about a Bette Davis movie she watched last night. Ignoring this, Daphne says:
DAPHNE: Zoe, before you left last night, I asked you to switch on the timer for the coffee machine.
ZOE: Sorry – I thought I *did*.
DAPHNE: OK, I should've checked it, but it takes about half an hour to build up steam for a cappuccino.
ZOE: OK, well if anyone wants a cappuccino, I'll improvise!
Daphne smiles and tells Zoe to go and check the tables! Zoe heads out into the shop just as Paul is coming in. He orders a cappuccino and two croissants! Zoe smiles at him:
ZOE: Hello! I haven't seen *you* since the big night out with Nadine and Des! Got over it yet?!
In the kitchen, Daphne's face drops as she hears Des's name. She heads out into the shop and greets Paul, who asks how her holiday was. She replies curtly:
DAPHNE: Not as much fun as it was *here*, apparently.
Zoe explains quickly that Des was depressed about *her* and they were just trying to cheer him up. Paul adds:
PAUL: Shane was having hassles with a lady called Beth Travers, and to get him out of it Clive told her that he was getting married. Des found out about it and voila, big moody.
DAPHNE (looking surprised): Getting married to who?
PAUL: To *you*, actually.
DAPHNE (gasps in fury): I don't *believe* this. That'd be Clive's nerve... and what about Shane: he's completely innocent, is he?
Paul sighs that Des was devastated; she should be *flattered*. Daphne, however, retorts that she's *not*. Zoe quickly hands Paul two croissants and the tea of the day. Paul points out that he ordered a cappuccino. Zoe just smiles:
ZOE: It's Darjeeling – I made it specially for you. Just try it!
Daphne mutters that she's going to *kill* Shane and Clive!
Pacific Bank
Danny is typing on a typewriter when Des emerges from his office and asks him to ‘phone Head Office about a loan application for a customer. As Des goes to walk off, Danny calls after him to ask if he can ask him something. Des turns back and Danny explains that he was sounding off to Max about computer betting on horses and how it reduces risk. Des just sighs:
DES: How much?
DANNY: Five hundred dollars.
DES: Well, you and Max live in the same house; can't he place his *own* bets?
DANNY: Well *he* thinks because I'm a banker I should invest people's money.
DES: Ah, that's the word: ‘invest', not ‘speculate'.
Danny suddenly notices Rosemary standing by the counter, and he stands up and heads over there. He introduces Rosemary to Des and the two of them shake hands, Rosemary telling Des that Mr. Johnson from Head Office gave him a glowing recommendation. She goes on that she may need to send some telex messages to New York – and while she's there, she'd like to discuss some financial transfers. Danny asks her if she's found a manager for her new business yet. Rosemary smiles at him:
ROSEMARY: Danny, if you were older, I wouldn't hesitate!
She then heads over to Des's office, leaving Des to say to Danny quietly:
DES: If you're going to computer-check those horses, do it in your lunch hour, OK?
No. 24
Helen is talking to Madge as Madge potters around dusting and cleaning. Helen says:
HELEN: You think I should've taken it, don't you?
MADGE: Oh... I probably would've made the same decision myself – but yes, I think deep down I was hoping you could get out and start a new career; do it for *both* of us. But I suppose that's all daydreams.
HELEN: I hope this doesn't come *between* Rosemary and me.
MADGE: Oh she's sensible; she'll understand.
HELEN (shaking her head): No – she sees it for what she believes it is: a rejection.
MADGE: Well, it won't be the first or the last: she'll have to get over it.
HELEN (muses): New challenges... someone with all that faith in me... Was it for Jim and the family or was it because I was frightened of change?
MADGE: There's a lot to be said for a family.
HELEN: Yes, but they grow up.
MADGE (insists): Don't worry – it'll all work out for the best.
Coffee Shop
Zoe tells Daphne that the small-goods van is outside. The shop door opens and Shane and Clive come in, Clive smiling that he can offer problems solved, saucepans mended and provide advice for the lovelorn all for the price of a pasty! Daphne, however, snaps;
DAPHNE: You two have got a damned hide. We're getting married, I hear – or is it a *different* lie this week?
CLIVE (quickly): That was a special situation; a one-off concerning a lady called Beth Travers—
DAPHNE (coolly): I know all *about* Beth Travers.
ZOE (interjects, looking at Clive and Shane): It's Des: she wants to sort things out—
Zoe breaks off as Daphne glares at her, and she heads off to the kitchen. Clive then tells Daphne that Shane had a heavy problem with Beth, and while they shouldn't have dragged her into it, Shane was under colossal pressure. Shane mutters at Clive that he's making it sound like it's all *his* fault. He then turns to Daphne and tells her:
SHANE: This woman's a man-eater. I tried to give her the elbow but the message just didn't seem to get through – so bright-eyes here [he indicates Clive] invented the whole stupid story.
DAPHNE (retorts): So it's all *her* fault, is it?
SHANE: No, but it's wrong and I'm sorry. I've talked to her and explained the true situation. It won't happen again.
DAPHNE (mutters): Just leave me *out* of it in future.
No. 26
Helen is doing some sewing in the lounge room when Jim joins her from the kitchen and tells her quickly that *he* could do that. Helen, however, retorts that if she's to stay there, she needs to feel useful. Jim sits down and asks gently:
JIM: Are you *happy* with your decision?
Helen pauses before replying:
HELEN: Last night, I was looking through some old photos. There was one taken when Bill was still alive. It was a family group: there was Bill and myself... Anne and Rosemary... beside our old Morris. We were all waving and laughing and everybody was very, very happy. Well, that was Rosemary's family background and it's always stood her in good stead. And when Anne died and I came to live here with you, *her* family became *mine* as well – and I want *them* to be *just* as happy.
Changing the subject, she adds:
HELEN: Now, what about Scott: why is he so jumpy? What's at the bottom of it?
Jim starts to explain that Nikki says he's falling behind in his Maths. Helen asks him if he has an answer. Jim tells her that he's going to hire a Maths tutor. Looking dubious, Helen says:
HELEN: Oh I don't think so, Jim. I mean, the bigger you make the problem seem—
Jim interrupts, though, and retorts:
JIM: He needs hard work; hard work and perseverance – and speaking of hard work, I'd better get back to the books.
With that, Jim heads back through to the kitchen, leaving Helen to sigh heavily.
Coffee Shop
Beth walks into the Coffee Shop and looks around. Daphne emerges from the kitchen and Beth tells her that it's a nice place: someone's got style. Daphne smiles and thanks her. Beth then asks:
BETH: Are you Daphne Lawrence?
DAPHNE: Yes, that's right.
Beth sits down at a table and continues:
BETH: I met a friend of yours: Shane – Shane Ramsay: he's a nice guy.
DAPHNE (shrugs): Yes, he's OK.
Beth orders raisin toast and a cappuccino. She then tells Daphne:
BETH: He's stuck on you, you know?
DAPHNE (blankly): Sorry?
BETH: He's mad about you. He told me.
DAPHNE: I'm sorry – you're...?
BETH: Beth Travers
DAPHNE (looking surprised): Oh – I see.
BETH: Look, I had no intention of having this conversation with you, but to be honest, you're not what I expected.
DAPHNE (admits): Neither are you!
BETH: You probably think I'm predatory, but it's not that way. I *like* Shane, but since he told me about *you*, I've backed off.
DAPHNE (quickly): I think you should know there's nothing *between* Shane and me. There used to be, but not now; not for some time.
BETH (frowns): But he told *me*--
DAPHNE (curtly): Yes, well, that's men. I'll get you that coffee: it's on the house.
Beth, however, stands up looking annoyed and mutters:
BETH: No thanks. I'm sorry I bothered you.
As Beth goes to walk out, Daphne calls after her. Beth just turns back and says coolly:
BETH: It's OK. Thanks for everything.

Episode title: 0199
Australian airdate: 27/02/86
UK airdate: 07/08/87
UK Gold: 05/08/93
Writer: Ray Harding
Director: Julian McSwiney
Guests: Rosemary Daniels – Joy Chambers
Beth Travers – Virginia Hey
Music:
Summary/Images by: Graham
Recap
A drunken Max telling Danny that he forgives him for not placing the bets – but he still wants Danny to pay him back!
Rosemary telling Helen that she wants to find her real mother – and she wants Helen to help her.
No. 26
Helen sits there in silence. She eventually stands up and murmurs:
HELEN: I just don't understand why you want to *do* this.
ROSEMARY: I'm not sure I can *explain* why.
HELEN (cries): I've always done my *best* for you.
ROSEMARY: Oh good grief, this has nothing to do with *you*.
HELEN (indignantly): Thanks very much!
ROSEMARY (quickly): Oh I didn't mean that – oh God, I'm just making this worse. Look, what I'm trying to say, and making a hash of, is that nobody could have had a better mother than *you*; anyone would be *proud* to be your child. Sometimes I even manage to kid myself that I really *am*. I've been playing that game all my life – but that's all it is: a game. My real – my biological – mother just walked off and left me one day and didn't even look back.
HELEN (protests): But you don't *know* that's how it happened; there might have been reasons.
ROSEMARY: Can you think of one reason that would make you abandon a child of *yours*?
HELEN (shaking her head, cries): There's nothing to be gained by opening old wounds.
ROSEMARY (retorts): The woman who did that was my *mother*. She's a part of me. I need to know how *big* a part. I need to know who I am – but I don't think I can do it without *you*.
Helen stands there with tears in her eyes.
No. 24
The next morning, the birds are twittering loudly in the garden of No. 24, and Max opens his bedroom window and yells at them to go and make that noise in someone else's backyard! Inside, in the kitchen, Shane and Danny are having breakfast while Madge bakes some pies. She warns the boys not to provoke Max. At that moment, Max emerges from his room and mutters that those birds are like an alarm clock. He goes to take a pie, but Madge tells him that they're not for him; she's taking them down to the Coffee Shop. Max asks why and Madge explains that she's hoping to sell them and make a little pocket money. Max mutters that *that'll* be the day. At the table, Shane chuckles at something in the newspaper, but Max turns to him and Danny and snaps:
MAX: I don't know what yous hyenas have got to laugh about – especially not with the money you owe me.
No. 28
Des is having breakfast when Zoe emerges from her bedroom. She comments on the healthy food he's eating, but Des just retorts that it doesn't hurt to eat a balanced meal occasionally. He then adds:
DES: Speaking about balancing things...
ZOE: *You* are, *I'm* not!
DES: I've been wrestling with the household budget.
ZOE (quickly): Ah, you see, I'm way ahead of you there!
Zoe then goes to her bag on the counter and takes out some money, which she hands to Des. He exclaims in astonishment:
DES: You're *paying* me?
ZOE: There's no need to sound so surprised! It's the new me: pay as you do.
DES (smiles): I like it!
ZOE: Cash on the nail, all the way down the line. Let nobody say Zoe Davis doesn't pay her debts!
DES: Perish the thought!
Zoe then goes to the ‘fridge and, looking puzzled, remarks that she thought she had another bottle of champagne in there. She muses that she'll have a cup of tea instead. Turning back to Des, she stares at the money he's holding and says:
ZOE: I don't suppose I could...
Des hands back the notes and sighs:
DES: There you go!
ZOE: Oh thanks, Des. It's just ‘til Friday – I promise!
DES: Yeah, yeah, sure!
No. 22
Shane and Clive are working out their plan of action for the day and Clive says it's going to be a hot one, so he'd like to get an early start. Daphne joins them and, finding Shane standing in his shorts, lets out a wolf-whistle and smiles:
DAPHNE: Look at those legs!
SHANE (sounding surprised): What?
DAPHNE: Well, if you've got it, flaunt it, that's what *I* always say. No wonder Beth Travers can't keep her hands off!
CLIVE (warns): Cut it out, Daph, it's a touchy subject.
DAPHNE (to Shane, teases): Ah, is diddums being all sexually harassed?! It's your own fault you know: you shouldn't be so provocative. Ankle-length shirts and button-up collars, that's the answer.
Shane laughs sarcastically, but Daphne tells him curtly:
DAPHNE: It's funny if it's a *girl*, though, isn't it, and that's the sort of advice *we* always get. ‘We've got to stop leading you on.'
Shane retorts that he *hasn't* been leading Beth on. Daphne points out that he took her out. Shane mutters that that was a mistake. Daphne persists:
DAPHNE: What was it one creep said to me? Oh yes: “You know you're going to give in in the end, so why waste our time playing around?” There you are: she probably thinks you're playing hard to get!
No. 24
Helen is helping Madge pack her newly-baked pies into a box. Madge sighs that it's difficult to know what to do in a situation like that. Helen nods that it's only natural for Rosemary to want to know who her real mother is. Madge assures her that it's also natural for the woman who brought her up all her life to be a little bit *worried* about it. Helen muses:
HELEN: I admit it. I feel let down; betrayed.
MADGE (looking surprised): That's a bit dramatic, isn't it?
HELEN: Oh, I don't know: I turned down the job she offered me. She took it personally; she felt I was rejecting her.
MADGE: And now *she's* doing the same thing?
HELEN: Something like that.
MADGE: I think you're reading too much into it.
HELEN: I hope so.
MADGE (insists): Your relationship with Rosemary is much stronger than something like that.
Helen then hesitates before saying:
HELEN: Madge, what's going to happen when she finds out that I've been lying to her?
MADGE (blankly): What?
HELEN: Today she asked me to help her *find* her mother. Madge, I *know* who her mother is; I've *always* known. Now how can I tell her that? How can I tell her that her mother doesn't want to have anything to do with her?
Madge stares at Helen in surprise.
Pacific Bank
Danny is showing Des the list of horses the computer has churned out. Des, however, tells him they have to start again as there's been a sudden downpour at the track and all their horses are good in the *dry*. Danny throws down the sheet of paper in frustration. Rosemary appears at the counter suddenly and calls across to Des to ask if she can have a word with him. He joins her and she says:
ROSEMARY: Well? Have you thought over my offer?
DES: Well yes, I have. Look, it's not that I'm ungrateful...
ROSEMARY: I see.
DES: It's just that I'd prefer to play it safe. I really think you need somebody more aggressive than me.
ROSEMARY: I don't necessarily agree with that, but it's your decision.
DES: Don't get me wrong: I do appreciate it.
ROSEMARY: I understand.
Danny wanders over to the counter and says seriously:
DANNY: What about *me*, Rosemary? *I'm* still available.
Rosemary just smiles and tells him:
ROSEMARY: I've said it many times before, Danny: I need someone with more experience. But ten out of ten for perseverance!
With that, Rosemary heads off – just as Max comes in. He asks Danny if he's got the picks. Des explains that it's raining at the track. Danny adds that it's just a minor adjustment! Max accepts this and says he'll be back in an hour so. With that, he heads off again, leaving Danny to mutter to Des:
DANNY: We can't re-program in that time. What are we gonna do?
DES: We could always toss a coin. Worked for my grandma!
Beth Travers' back garden
Clive is stacking some bricks in a wheelbarrow; he's dressed in a singlet and shorts. Shane walks over to him, wearing a shirt and long trousers, and Clive asks him where he's been. Shane explains that he went home to get changed: he started thinking about what Daphne said about wearing shorts. Clive points out that Daphne was just having him on. Shane, however, retorts that he's not taking any chances. The back door of the house opens suddenly and Beth emerges, wearing a swimming costume. She says coolly to Clive and Shane:
BETH: How nice of you to turn up. That retaining wall you put up yesterday is skew-whiff.
CLIVE: Not according to the spirit level.
BETH: Well it looks skew-whiff to *me* and *I'm* the one who has to live with it – so fix it, will you?
CLIVE: I'll have to go to the hardware shop for more cement.
BETH (airily): Then I suggest you *do* that.
With that, she walks off to the pool. Clive picks up his car keys, but Shane says to him quickly:
SHANE: You promised you wouldn't leave me alone with her.
CLIVE (shrugs): I haven't got much of a choice, have I, mate? I'll be back in ten minutes, all right?
With that, Clive dashes off. Shane looks over to where Beth is opening a tube of sun cream. She turns to him and says in a seductive tone:
BETH: It's going to be a real hot one today... You'll work up a real sweat dressed like that; you should've worn shorts, like Clive. *Far* more practical...
No. 26
Paul is having breakfast at the kitchen table when Rosemary arrives home. She remarks that he must be running late. Paul, however, tells her that the hours are pretty flexible: the company knows the job will get done. Rosemary remarks:
ROSEMARY: Sounds like an ideal arrangement.
PAUL (shrugs): It's all right.
ROSEMARY: In which case, you wouldn't consider changing?
PAUL: Now what's *that* supposed to mean?
ROSEMARY: Well, I'd like to offer you the Head of the Australian end of my business.
PAUL (muses): You're really scraping the bottom end of the barrel, aren't you? What happened? Everyone else turn you down?
ROSEMARY: Not at all – I happen to think you'd be very *good* for the job.
PAUL (remarks): *That's* a change of tune.
ROSEMARY: Look, OK, I fired you once – and you know my version of what happened then; if you don't believe me, that's up to you – but I'll tell you one thing: you won't go very far in business holding grudges.
PAUL: Maybe I happen to *like* the job that I've already got?
ROSEMARY: Maybe you do – and maybe you'd like to take orders for the rest of your life, in which case I've misjudged you.
PAUL (standing up): At least I know the job I've got's still going to be there next week. You're going to have to offer a hell of a lot more for me to even consider changing.
Paul goes to walk off, but Rosemary says quickly:
ROSEMARY: Perhaps I *can*.
Paul turns back to her and says:
PAUL: Have you also forgotten that you said I couldn't take orders from a woman?
ROSEMARY (sighs): I could be wrong.
PAUL (drily): And you could be right, too.
With that, Paul walks off, leaving Rosemary looking thoughtful