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It's been three years
since I left the comforts of big city life
to teach school in nthe little town of Hope Valley.
Every winter I spend here,
I become more convinced
that there's nothing more beautiful
than Christmas in my frontier home.
It was a difficult year for many of our new neighbors.
The people who settled near the river
saw their homes swept away in a flood.
Some even lost beloved husbandsand fathers.
But in the true spirit of giving,
our town has joined together,
promising to those less fortunate
a holiday filled with comfort and joy.
This is a long list.
I am in charge of
the Christmas Committee this year.
It's, uh, it's a bigger order than usual.
Well, there's extra
for the families from the settlement.
It's the least we can do to show them how much we care.
I agree a hundred percent.
So do you think you can get it all here before Christmas Eve?
It shouldn't be a problem.
Great!
I come by later with the grocery order.
I wonder what Miss LeVeaux will say
when she hears you've taken over her committee.
"Mrs. Coulter" has been away on her honeymoon
with Mr. Coulter.
I heard they're due back today.
And I'm sure Rosemary will be delighted
that someone volunteered in her absence.
You don't actually believe that, do you?
Christmas is the season for miracles.
Miss Thatcher!
Where would you like this tree?
Um...
How about right here, in the center of town?
Sounds like the perfect place to me.
Jack!
Elizabeth.
How's the work coming?
Good!
We finished the attic in Mrs. Sullivan's,
and we're just started work
over the dentist's office.
And what about
the old houses by the north road?
The seven houses are gonna take some time.
To tell the truth,
I need to find a few more men to lend a hand.
Oh, there's the Lawson family.
I was thinking
the apartment below Dottie's
would be perfect for them.
Thanks.
Elizabeth...
I promised you
that I'd find everyone from the settlement
a permanent place to call home
by Christmas,
and I intend to deliver.
Christmas is only a week away.
Would you please stop worrying?
I wish I knew how.
Well, I don't know how we're going
to pull off a Christmas Eve banquet.
And this building project,
if you ask me, it's far too ambitious.
I think it's fantastic.
Any word on
when Mayor Gowen is coming back?
Faith was going to check on him while she was in Union City,
but I haven't heard anything.
Well, I really think it's time for you
to officially step in as mayor, Abigail.
You are head of the town council,
and the town bylaws clearly state
that when the Mayor is absent,
the head of the council assumes the leadership role.
Florence, I'm not doing anything official
until we know for sure about Henry.
And quite frankly, with the cafe, the banquet,
and Christmas for Cody,
I've got my hands full, thank you very much.
I just hope Miss Thatcher knows what she's doing.
She may have bitten off more than she can chew.
She will be fine, if we all pitch in and help.
I suppose I could bake a cake or two.
Or 25!
Oh, come on, Florence! It'll be fun.
Abigail!
- Excuse me, ladies. - Of course.
Do you have the menu for the banquet?
Give me till 3:00.
The sooner the better.
I'm wondering if we should serve turkey or ham.
Maybe both.
You know, you're starting to sound a lot like Rose--
Bite your tongue!
Yoo-hoo! Merry Christmas!
Ah. Speak of the devil.
Okay...
Well, if it isn't the happy honeymooners!
Hello!
We had just a marvelous time on our honeymoon!
I didn't want to come back.
But then I realized
I had to make an extra special Christmas
for my honey-bunny.
Yeah. That would be me.
Just think. This is our
very first Christmas as a married couple.
And I hate to disappoint you all,
but I absolutely do not have time
to head the Christmas Committee this year,
so someone else
will have to remove
that terrible, scrawny Christmas tree
that Mr. Avery is putting up in front of the saloon.
Actually, I'm in charge of the committee this year,
and I think that tree is just fine.
You would, dear.
Constable Thornton?
Can I play with Rip?
'Course you can, Cody. He's in the jail.
Oh, Cody. Hold on. That reminds me...
Um, picked up a little something for you
when we were in New York.
Autographed by Doc Crandall himself.
He's the best pitcher in the league!
You bet he is.
What do you say, young man?
Thanks, Mr. Coulter!
You're very welcome.
So, need a hand moving the luggage back to your place?
Oh, don't be silly, no.
Lee's place is much too small for both of us.
Yeah, apparently,
I am now building Rosemary
the largest house in town.
But where will you stay in the meantime?
Right next door...
to me.
We're neighbors! Isn't it fabulous?
Come take a peek inside.
All right, give me a hand with this.
Okay.
- Ready? - Yep.
Okay.
Oh! Whoa, whoa, whoa.
Careful. It's heavy.
What has Rosemary got in here? Lead?
Souvenirs.
Like the Statue of Liberty?
I can't believe you hauled this thing
across an entire continent.
Rosemary went Christmas shopping
every single day we were away.
Well, lucky you didn't stay another week.
You're telling me.
There's no place like home.
It's good to have you back, Lee.
Good to be back. So, tell me, uh...
You and Elizabeth have big plans for the holidays?
Yep.
But she doesn't know it yet.
Okay.
Here we come!
Ready?
Can I get your attention?
Listen up, everyone!
We're lucky we haven't had much snow
up on the high ground here yet,
but people in town know it's getting cold,
so they're inviting you to stay with them
until we finish building you homes.
We can't impose like that.
Oh, sure, you can.
Nurse Carter is here
to help make all the arrangements.
There isn't a lot more to say,
except let's get you
packed up and out of here as fast as we can!
I can't believe we're going to have
a place of our own by Christmas.
Well, you can believe it, because it's true.
I wish I could help with the work,
but I'm heading out
for a double shift at the mine.
It's okay, Mr. Lawson. We've got plenty of volunteers.
People are happy to donate supplies.
Maggie and Timmy are so excited,
I can't get them to sleep at night.
Same with our Ruby!
Nancy, let me help you with that.
I'll be fine.
You sure? Looks pretty heavy.
I said I'll be fine.
Frank, we need a hand over here.
Cody, please put away the ball.
We have lots of things to do today.
Like what?
Well, first, we are going to be making
Christmas decorations for the classroom.
My mom said we're going to be having
a Nativity Pageant on Christmas Eve.
That's right, we are.
What's a Navi-tivity pageant?
"Nativity."
It's a play about the birth of Jesus.
Are there going to be parts for everyone?
Of course there are!
And...
I have ordered very special costumes
all the way from Hamilton.
and they're going to be my Christmas gift for the class.
Um...
Miss Thatcher, will we have to audition,
like we did for Miss Rosemary's plays?
I'm gonna audition for Mary.
There won't be any auditions.
The biggest parts
are going to go to the students who show
who show the most Christmas spirit
by being kind and caring.
I want to be one of the wise men.
Then I'm sure you will be very kind and very caring.
I could clean the chalkboard after school.
That's a good start,
but it's not exactly what I had in mind.
Well, then,
what did you have in mind?
You will have to figure it out.
And after the play,
there's going to be a Giving Tree,
with presents and special surprises.
Yes, Ruby?
Even for the new kids?
Especially for the new kids.
I really want a train set.
I've never had a dollhouse.
What about you, Maggie?
Is there something special you'd like?
I once had a "Biddy Betsy" doll,
but I lost her.
I miss her a lot.
Oh. Well, maybe you could draw a picture of her
to put on the tree.
I'm not very good at drawing.
I'll help.
That's very kind of you, Emily.
All right, everyone.
Let's get to work on these decorations.
Harper?
I didn't get to hear what you wanted for Christmas.
Guess I just want my mom to be happy again.
She really misses my dad.
Well, she has you,
and that's the most important thing in the world.
Come on.
Can I help you pack?
I can handle it myself, thanks.
You want to tell me what's wrong?
Everyone's so happy out there.
It's hard being alone at Christmas.
You bet it is.
You've all been so generous.
It's wrong for me to feel sorry for myself.
It's not wrong.
You lost your husband.
Why don't you come by the church tomorrow?
We can talk.
I don't want to put you to any trouble.
I'd tell you if it was trouble.
So tomorrow?
All right.
How's it coming?
Well, it turns out
the floorboards are rotted.
We're going to need some more lumber.
Have you started on the apartment
for the Lawsons yet?
No. I figured I'd get to that tomorrow.
I'll head to the mill,
see if I can get more lumber.
Thanks, Jesse.
Bill, I need a favor.
What kind of favor?
Think you could cover for me for about an hour?
Mountie business?
Actually, I promised someone
we would pick out a Christmas tree together.
Go ahead.
Consider it an early Christmas present.
Actually, consider it your only Christmas present.
When I was on my rounds yesterday,
I spotted the perfect Christmas tree.
I thought we were going to pick one out together.
We are.
I just thought I'd do a little advance scouting
to save some time, that's all.
So?
What do you think?
Uh, um...
it's...
compact.
Well, it's the perfect fit for your rowhouse.
Or it's exactly what you need for the jail.
You don't like it.
Did you hear that?
Yeah, it sounds like sleigh bells.
Over there.
Here, boy!
Come on.
Where'd he go?
I don't know...
but it looks like
he just found us the most perfect tree.
It's a beauty, all right.
Sam Bailey, at your service.
Constable Jack Thornton.
This is Elizabeth Thatcher.
Hello.
Is that your wagon?
Yeah. It's my wagon and my livelihood.
I pride myself on having just what my customers need.
Hmm. How long do you think you'll be
staying here, Mr. Bailey?
Don't worry about me, Constable.
I'm just passing through on my way to Union City.
Need a hand chopping down that tree?
I think I can handle it, thanks.
All right.
I'll leave you to it.
Oh. Hey, honey, I'm home.
Or... maybe I'm in Santa's workshop.
What do you think?
Wow.
I mean, it's, uh...
Hi!
I thought I might as well get started
on the holiday decorating.
"Started?"
You mean you're not finished?
Well, I don't know.
The trees look a little bare.
You do realize, of course,
that most people have one tree.
We're not most people.
But two trees? Really?
Not two, silly. There's another one upstairs.
Ah. Of course there is.
But now there's hardly enough room for all the furniture.
There is a place for everything and everything's in its place.
Mm-hmm. You know,
you really don't need to go to all this trouble.
It's no trouble at all.
And thankfully, I have the time,
now that Elizabeth is running the Christmas committee.
I never realized what a burden it was.
I thought you enjoyed being in charge of all that stuff.
That was before I was a married woman.
Now I can see it's the perfect job
for a spinster
who doesn't have a husband to take care of.
I almost forgot.
I need to rearrange your closet.
Oh, no, no, no, no, no, no. That's okay.
You don't need to do that.
I want to.
Your Christmas present is in the closet,
and-- no, no, no, no, no, no.
I want it to be a surprise.
What is it?
Well, if I told you, it wouldn't be a surprise.
Right?
Uh-uh-uh, stay with me. Stay with me.
You're gonna love it, though.
You must be exhausted.
Packing up that camp couldn't have been easy.
Oh. At least we got everyone settled before sundown.
Would you like some dessert?
Oh, you know I love your desserts,
but I gotta turn in early.
Oh.
More construction, first thing.
It's gonna be another long day.
Are you gonna have enough strength to help us decorate
that Christmas tree tomorrow night?
Oh, you bet.
I hope you don't mind
that I brought some ornaments of my own.
No, I love them.
Especially this one.
Oh, that.
That one was my favorite when I was a kid.
Looks like Rip used it as a chew toy.
I'll fix it.
Mounties are handy at lots of things.
Oh.
Well...
how are Mounties
at playing Santa?
Why do you ask?
I need someone to help hand out presents after the pageant.
The thing is,
I-I wouldn't want to rob someone
more deserving of the honor.
Please?
I really want to make this--
...The best Christmas
for the town,
and for the new families, I know.
All I want is
to make it the best Christmas for you.
You have something in mind?
As a matter of fact...
there's something I've been meaning to ask you.
And if I'm going to do it, I have to do it now.
Now, as in right now?
Well, it really can't wait.
Would you do me the honor...
the great honor...
...of accompanying me to the Mountie Christmas Ball?
The Mountie Christmas Ball?
We won't be long.
Just an afternoon and an evening.
It's in Buxton this year.
I'll hire a horse and a carriage to take us.
Oh, but, um, I have the dinner and the pageant and...
I promise,
I'll get you back in time for everything.
Oh, Jack...
Of course.
I'd love to go.
Have you seen my baseball?
It was under the couch the last time I looked.
Oh, but don't play with it in class.
Are those cookies?
Yes,
but they are for Christmas Eve, not for breakfast.
Miss Abigail...
if I bring cookies to school,
does that count as being kind and caring?
Well, it does if you do it
because you think it will make your friends happy.
So it doesn't
if I want to get a good part in the Christmas play?
I'm afraid not.
What if it's both?
Well, it's a start.
Have a good day, Cody.
The morning stage just came in.
Is there a problem?
He's back.
Careful! I don't want you to fall.
I'm not going to fall unless somebody pushes me.
Let's get you home.
You should save your strength.
And you should save your breath.
I'm just fine.
Well, this is a surprise.
Mayor Gowen refused to stay
in the hospital another day.
Is he going to be okay?
He'll be fine.
Right now, he just needs plenty of rest.
But he can go back to work, right?
Abigail...
Henry Gowen's under federal investigation.
He's not allowed to serve as Mayor
unless, or until, he's cleared.
Opal,
that is a beautiful house.
It's for Brownie.
I'm making mine for Biddy Betsy,
but I can't get the roof to stay on.
Well, I think you might need some more icing to glue it on.
She can use mine.
Thanks, Cody!
Miss Thatcher?
How come Harper isn't here?
I don't know.
Timmy, did Harper walk with you to school this morning?
His mom said not to wait for him.
Hello, my dear children!
Well, look at all of the wonderful things
you're making for Christmas!
Miss Thatcher says
there's going to be a nativity play,
presents, and a Christmas feast.
Well, Miss Thatcher's going to be very busy
with all of that,
and the Mountie Christmas Ball.
- -You're going to a ball?
With Constable Thornton?
How romantic.
Oh, all right, everyone.
Let's keep working on our projects.
How did you know
I was going to the Mountie Christmas Ball?
Oh, my dear Elizabeth.
The walls at the rowhouses are paper-thin,
and your squeaky voice cuts through them like a knife.
But never mind all that.
I am here on a mission of mercy.
Which is?
The Mountie Christmas Ball is not just any social event.
It isthe event of the season,
and lucky for you,
I have an absolutely stunning gown.
I bought it on my honeymoon and I want you to borrow it.
Thank you,
but I'm sure I can find something in my closet.
From two seasons ago?
Oh...
I guess it has been a while
since I've gone shopping for a gown.
Let me be your fairy godmother.
As long as you don't turn me into a pumpkin.
You'll make a beautiful Cinderella.
Now, I really must run.
I have some digging to do.
Digging?
Well, Lee bought me a Christmas present
while we were on our honeymoon.
I haven't been able to find it anywhere!
The only time I can look for it is when he's at work.
Wouldn't that spoil the surprise?
Oh, my dear, half the fun of a surprise
is knowing what it is ahead of time.
Here you go.
What's all this for?
We're leaving town.
Leaving?
That's-- That's kind of sudden.
Well, that's the way of things, I guess.
You never told me.
What's there to tell?
There's nothing here for us, not anymore.
Not without Harper's father.
Just think about it for a few days. Stay.
At least until after Christmas.
How can we celebrate Christmas without Virgil?
Put that in the wagon, Harper.
He shouldn't have died.
He was a good man.
I know he was.
You don't know anything. I don't need you.
I don't need your church. I don't need any of this!
Yes, you do.
And we need you.
Just let me help.
You want to help?
Then tell God to give me back my husband.
We have to go.
Nancy... Nancy, think about what you're doing here.
Just leave us alone.
Hello, Henry.
It's good to see you.
Abigail. What can I do for you?
I heard about the accident,
and I came to see how you were doing.
I-I brought you some muffins.
Well, that's very kind of you. Thank you.
How's Nora?
Is she coming back to take care of you?
You needn't concern yourself with that.
I'm quite fine. Thank you.
Well, then I need to talk to you about some town business.
There are bills that have to be paid.
Well, if you just leave them,
I'll be back in my office tomorrow.
Henry...
you can't go back to being Mayor.
Not yet, anyway.
Well, says who?
The town charter.
You're still under federal investigation,
and, apparently, that means
you can't serve Hope Valley in any capacity
until you've been cleared.
I'm sorry.
Are you?
Seems to me
that you've gotten what you always wanted.
I have a business to run and a child to raise.
I certainly do not want your job.
And yet, you have it.
If you could just answer a few questions
about these invoices...
Well, you are an intelligent woman.
I'm sure you will figure it out.
I don't have your experience, Henry.
No, you do not.
I thought we could work together.
Well, you thought wrong.
You're making this harder than it has to be.
Good afternoon, Mrs. Stanton.
Why should you get to play Mary?
I helped Opal with her spelling test.
I shared my lunch with Ruby.
Is there something wrong, girls?
No.
Good! Because we can't be in the Christmas spirit
if we're fighting with our best friend, now can we?
No.
When I was a kid,
we did a Christmas pageant.
and I wanted to be Joseph,
but the-the teacher,
she chose someone else to play the part.
Mm. So what part did you get?
"Shepherd Number Three."
Never could figure out how to be the teacher's pet.
Until now.
Is there a problem, Frank?
Nancy Tucker and her boy left town this morning for good.
Oh, no! What happened?
Too many memories.
Harper said something yesterday.
I should have spoken with her.
I tried to stop her, but...
I couldn't.
I hate to think of her and her son alone on the road
at Christmas.
Anyway, I'm gonna help Lee
with the houses by the north road.
I feel terrible.
Harper's such a sweet boy.
He was doing so well here.
What can we do?
We could pray for a miracle.
Look, everyone!
Whoa!
Merry Christmas, boys and girls!
Do you think it's Santa?
Come on!
Looks like he's taken a shine to you!
I wish I could have a dog. What's his name?
"Dasher."
Like the reindeer!
I knew it was Santa!
Did you get my letter about Biddy Betsy?
I'm just an old peddler, sweetheart.
I'm not Santa Claus.
But I'm sure he got your letter.
And you know what?
I think he knows you've been a good girl this year, too.
All right, everyone. It's time to go home.
Your parents are waiting for you.
Let's go.
Bye.
Mr. Bailey. I thought you were headed to Union City.
I was, but then, well, I figured
maybe I should stick around a little while longer.
The place sure has grown up since the last time I was here.
When was that?
Oh, so long ago, I've forgotten.
But, what I remember is,
people around here-- pretty friendly.
Well, they still are,
as long as you abide by the rules.
Aw, I can save you the trouble, son.
No selling moonshine.
No selling any home remedies might happen to be moonshine.
No disturbing the peace,
and no disturbing anyone, at all!
Well, unless, of course, they want to be disturbed.
I think you understand things pretty well.
Some say.
That a boy.
You're staying till Christmas?
Guess that kind of depends on what people around here need.
It's like I said before,
I'm good at helping folks find what they're looking for.
Like the perfect Christmas tree?
Something like that.
I don't think I've been this busy in my entire life.
Well, if you're concerned about
becoming Mayor, Abigail,
I don't blame you, it's a tall order.
So you don't think I can handle it?
I didn't say that.
Then what are you saying?
I'm just saying that
it's a big job for a...
For a what?
Well, for a...
...For a busy businesswoman and mother, like yourself.
It's just a lot of responsibility.
I see.
But since you're my business partner,
I guess you'd have no problem running the cafe
if I take over as Mayor for a while.
Unless, of course, it's too much responsibility...
for you.
Bring on the apron.
Looking for somethin' special?
I don't suppose you have any hair jewels, do you?
Afraid I don't have anything quite so fancy.
Neither does Mr. Yost.
And the Mountie Ball is in three days.
And you'll be the belle of that ball,
with or without those fancy hair bobs.
Well, it seems like the mercantile's
out of just about everything this week.
Maybe I can help.
Do you have any pepper?
I'm trying to make a shepherd's pie.
Oh, actually, it's paprika that you need.
Right.
Paprika. It's my first time.
I'm not a very good cook.
Well, I wasn't any good at first either.
It just takes practice.
Paprika. Let me see.
Um...
Nope. I'm all out.
But maybe you've got some, in your pantry.
I do!
In fact, I was planning on making
a shepherd's pie later tonight.
You could come by, if you like,
and we could make it together?
I'd like that!
All right. See you soon.
Great!
Yeah, makes a fella happy--
seeing folks getting together for the holidays,
caring for each other, giving kindness.
Now, that's what the Christmas spirit's
all about, wouldn't you say?
That's exactly what I'd say.
I guess it's a lucky thing you were out of paprika.
Yep. Lucky indeed, hmm.
Hopefully,
this place doesn't need too much work.
Well, it's only been vacant for six months.
How bad could it be?
I remember it being different.
Ah, it's not as bad as it looks.
My crew'll get it fixed up in no time.
We just got to replace that window,
panel up the walls,
fix that hole.
No, it was for the chimney that was connected--
...to the stove,
which isn't there anymore.
The Lawsons can't live here this time of year
without a stove.
Well, what are the chances
of getting one by Christmas?
If I know Elizabeth,
she'll find a way to make it happen.
Okay, well, let's get to it.
You want to tell me what you're doing?
My apologies.
I knocked over your trash, but I'm putting everything back.
Doesn't look like "everything."
I kept a few scraps for Dasher. That's him over there.
The dog eats scones?
He has a refined palate.
Do I know you?
Could be.
You look familiar yourself.
Do you play golf, by chance?
No.
Didn't I arrest you once?
Dougall Flats, petty theft?
The arm of the law has embraced me from time to time,
but those days are long gone.
I'm a peddler, not a thief.
Well, there can't be much of a profit
in being a peddler.
Helping people find what they need
is what I do best,
but it is more of a calling
than a way to make a living,
but that's all right.
Well, maybe for you,
but I bet Dasher might like something
a little better than a stale scone.
You wait here and I'll heat up
some leftover stew.
You're kinder than Saint Nicholas himself.
Well, I wouldn't go that far.
Oh, there's nothing wrong with spreading a little happiness.
Dasher, boy.
Hey, honey.
Well!
Would you look at that?
Isn't it amazing?
No candles?
Lee, candles are so passé.
Welcome to Christmas in the 20th century.
If you say so.
Now, you just settle in right there
while I finish making dinner.
All right.
Here's your newspaper.
Thank you.
Thank goodness I have the time
to take care of my husband the way he truly deserves.
I don't want you to take this the wrong way,
but maybe you take care of me just a little too well.
I just want you to be happy.
I'm always happy when I'm around you.
Now I need to get back to the stove!
I've made all your favorites.
Steak-and-potato pie, Yorkshire pudding,
dumplings and gravy.
What, all in the same night?
They say the way to a man's heart
is through his stomach.
They say anything about heartburn?
- Hmm? - Nothing.
You know, I'd never had shepherd's pie
until I came to Hope Valley.
Now I think it's my favorite.
Well, next time, we can try spaghetti.
Sounds like fun!
Are you going back to Hamilton for Christmas?
No.
I thought I'd be spending the holidays with my fiancé,
but...
You know it wasn't right with him.
I know.
To tell you the truth,
I was worried I'd be spending the holidays alone.
Well, we are not going to let that happen.
If you have some free time,
I could really use
some extra help on the Christmas Committee.
Okay!
Well, I'd better get out of your way.
Let you plan for the Mountie Ball.
Oh, so you've heard about that?
Oh, ho!
I think everyone has.
You and Jack are going to make a lovely couple.
Thank you.
If you run across
any eligible Mountie bachelors while you're there,
will you wrap one up for me?
With a big, red bow.
Working on your sermon for Christmas Eve?
I am so sorry.
I lost track of time.
No, that's okay.
Cody and I decorated the tree.
and then I heard you were here,
so I brought you some dessert.
Oh, that's awfully kind of you.
So, how's it coming?
Four drafts, none of them good.
Oh. Still searching for the right inspiration?
Something like that.
Well, just take a look around town...
all the happy faces, that should help.
Not everyone's smiling.
Frank, I know you're upset about Nancy,
but you did all you could.
Yeah, and it wasn't good enough.
You're being too hard on yourself.
You know, I asked everyone in the settlement
where they might have gone,
and no one knows.
You can't fix everyone.
Nancy's not everyone, Abigail.
I watched her husband die...
couldn't do anything about it.
My father used to say we're all soldiers.
Sometimes, we win...
and sometimes, we lose.
But we fight the good fight,
and that's what matters.
And if you don't believe me...
ask Him.
Thank you.
The gentlemen at the table near the door
would like to talk to the cook.
What do they want?
They say they don't like their eggs.
Somebody here got a problem with my eggs?
Are you the cook?
Yeah. And I get really steamed when people don't
like what I serve.
So let me ask you again--
you got a problem with my eggs?
No.
No problem.
Good.
Make sure you leave the little lady a nice tip.
How's your breakfast, Constable?
No complaints here, Bill.
Hey, Jack!
I'm glad I found you.
Everything okay?
Actually, no. Um...
I bought Rosemary
a piece of jewelry for Christmas at an auction at Sotheby's.
Right there.
Paid a pretty penny for it, too.
I went to get it this morning-- it was gone.
Oh, well... you sure it didn't crawl away?
Ha-ha. Make fun all you like,
but I will have you know--
these are all the rage in New York right now.
Lady Astor has one just like it.
Anyway, it was in a jewelry box
at the bottom of my trunk.
And you think it was stolen?
Well, it must've been. It was there yesterday.
Mr. Coulter.
Can I get you anything?
Actually, no. Um, couldn't eat a bite.
Rosemary's been stuffing me like a holiday turkey.
I do like the apron, though.
Oh, thanks. I got it from Sam.
Sam? The peddler?
Does anybody know anything about him?
I sent a wire to Mountie HQ.
No one has ever heard of "Sam Bailey."
Well, that's strange.
He told me he did some jail time.
They couldn't find any records.
Interesting.
Gentlemen! How fortunate to catch you all together.
Well, how can we help you, Miss Thatcher?
I am here on official Christmas business.
Which is?
Well, so far, none of the men in this town
have stepped forward to play Santa on Christmas Eve,
so I don't care how you boys do it,
just find someone to volunteer.
Yes, ma'am.
Um, Elizabeth--
Hmm?
With you in charge of Christmas this year,
Rosemary has a lot of free time on her hands,
which isn't necessarily a good thing.
So I was wondering if maybe you might--
If I could give her something to do?
It would save me a great deal of indigestion, yes.
Consider it done.
Thank you. I owe you.
How's it going?
You tell me.
Bill hasn't shot any of my customers, has he?
Um, I don't think so.
Well, that's good.
I have to get a new town budget approved by New Year's.
It's gonna be a while
before I'm in front of that stove again.
Christmas Eve is only three days away.
Are you sure you can handle the banquet, Abigail?
Bill will do most of the cooking,
but I'll do the coordinating.
Just wish I had more time to spend with Cody.
Well, if you don't have a gift for him yet,
I happen to know he really wants a dog.
He's getting a baseball cap.
Well, I am officially out of a job,
just in time for Christmas.
Henry fired you?
Oh, that's right,
and he won't let Nurse Carter anywhere near him.
It's like he's trying to shut out the world.
I thought I could get through to him, but I can't.
I need a cup of tea, please.
Oh.
Maybe you should talk to him, Abigail.
I could try, but the last time I did,
he nearly bit my head off.
He listens to you more than anyone else.
Well...
I may be unemployed,
but on the bright side,
Rosemary brought over the gown
she's loaning you for the Mountie Christmas Ball.
I have all the time in the world to do the alterations.
Alterations?
She said it needs to be let out in the waist,
and taken in at...
other places.
Excuse me?
"Other places"?
Can I give Dasher a treat?
That sounds like a yes.
You must be excited,
with Christmas right around the corner.
I guess so.
Well, is something wrong?
It's the nativity pageant.
My friend, Anna, and I both want to play Mary.
Ah.
And you think you deserve it more.
Well, I do.
Well, seeing as it's Christmas,
maybe you should let your friend have the part.
Well, seeing as it's Christmas,
maybe she should let me have the part.
It always feels better to give than receive.
You take Dasher, here,
why did you ask to feed him a treat?
Because dogs like treats.
You see?
It's not the joy you get from something,
it's the joy you get from giving something.
My teacher said the same thing.
Well, she's one smart lady.
I have to find Anna.
You're up early, Pastor.
Got work to do.
Ah. Finish that sermon?
You ask too many questions.
You sound like a man who's lost the Christmas spirit, my friend.
I got just the thing for it. Right here.
Dr. Othon's Miracle Elixir.
I don't look for answers in the bottom of a bottle.
I'm guessing there was a time when you did.
Ancient history.
And then...
you found answers from above?
Pretty much.
Least till now.
What changed?
Couldn't help a friend.
She took her son and left town.
It seems to me you've had it pretty easy here so far.
Town of good, God-fearing people...
Maybe the fact you've been given a challenge
means you're ready for something more.
Or maybe I'm not.
Got my work cut out for me with this one.
If I get a Biddy Betsy for Christmas,
she can have a tea party with Brownie.
Brownie would like that.
They can visit Ruby's dollhouse.
Maggie?
If you and Opal want to come to the cafe
with your doll,
you can have a real tea party.
Do you really mean it?
I'll ask Miss Abigail, but I bet she'll say yes.
Miss Thatcher?
Mm-hmm?
Anna and I need to talk to you.
About what?
We've been thinking about the pageant,
and we think Ruby should get to play Mary.
You do?
She's new. It would mean a lot to her.
But I thought you both wanted to play Mary.
We did, but we decided
that being friends is more important
than fighting all the time.
Emily?
Is there something wrong?
This was Harper's ornament.
You miss him, don't you?
Yeah.
When I'm worried about someone, I say a prayer for them.
I'll say a prayer for Harper at bedtime.
I will, too.
Well, Mr. Newlywed, how's married life?
It's everything I thought it would be.
I've done enough interrogations
to know an evasive answer when I hear one.
The first rule of a happy marriage--
don't do anything
that Rosemary might take the wrong way.
Gentlemen!
How are we going to settle this?
Darts.
Loser wears the big red suit.
So who goes first?
I feel lucky.
Well, I guess we know who's playing Santa.
As someone wise once said,
there's nothing wrong
with spreading a little happiness.
♪ Deck the halls With boughs of holly ♪
♪ Fa-la-la-la-la La-la-la ♪
♪ 'Tis the season To be jolly ♪
♪ Fa-la-la-la-la La-la-la-la ♪
♪ Don we now Our gay apparel ♪
♪ Fa-la-la-la-la La-la-la ♪
♪ Troll the ancient Yuletide carols ♪
♪ Fa-la-la-la-la La-la-la ♪
Only three days till Christmas,
and there's still lots to do.
It'll all be taken care of
by the time we leave.
♪ Deck the halls With boughs of holly ♪
It's been years since I've been to a Christmas Ball,
and I've never been to a Mountie Ball.
To tell you the truth, I'm a little nervous.
Nervous? Why?
There is gonna be dancing.
And?
And, I'm pretty good at the two-step,
but I've never really gotten the hang of the waltz.
The waltz is easy.
Do you think that you could show me?
Right here, right now?
Yeah. Why not?
Well, there isn't any music.
I couldn't help overhearing.
I'll leave you to it.
Okay, put one hand here...
and your other hand goes on my waist.
I like this already.
Jack, you're not paying attention.
Now, that's where you're wrong.
I heard our apartment
is going to be a lot of work.
Kurt will pay you back
just as soon as we're settled.
Mrs. Lawson,
all you have to do is be a good neighbor.
Just the same,
we don't like taking charity.
We can talk about all that later.
What is this new piece you've acquired?
Isn't it beguiling?
That's... one word for it.
Excuse me.
It's amazing
you would buy that for yourself.
Well, I needed something special
to wear for Christmas Eve.
Sorry to interrupt, ladies,
but I need to speak to Mrs. Blakeley for a second.
Of course.
Thank you.
That is an interesting piece of jewelry.
Thank you, Constable.
Is it new?
I bought it from that lovely peddler,
Mr. Bailey.
He said it's one of a kind.
I bet it is.
Too bad there's only one, though.
It would look great
with the gown Elizabeth is wearing
to the Mountie Ball.
Oh... Oh, I'm sorry, I--
I know that you can't
put a price on something like that, Mrs. Blakeley,
but I'd be willing
to give you twice what you paid for it.
It would mean a lot to me.
And then you could get yourself something even nicer.
Well...
there was a dragonfly pendant, a truly stunning piece.
But it cost...
$10.
You know what, Mrs. Blakeley?
I think you deserve to have a stunning Christmas.
Well, if you insist.
Does Dasher know any tricks?
Most dogs like to play catch.
Not with this ball.
Hey, Cody.
Aren't you late for school?
I guess so.
What can I do for you, Constable?
Well, I just spoke to Mrs. Blakeley,
and she told me
that you sold her this special piece of jewelry.
So I did. Hard to forget that one.
You mind telling me where you got it?
Oh, I buy and sell a lot of things.
Hard to keep track of them all.
Really?
Because this happens to be stolen property.
I'm sorry to hear that.
Maybe the circuit judge can jog your memory,
but I'm afraid he won't be coming though town
till after Christmas.
I still can't remember.
That's a shame,
'cause you know I'm going to have to arrest you.
Well, you gotta do what you gotta do.
May I have your attention, please?
All right, everyone.
It is time to assign the parts for the nativity pageant.
Now, several of you have shown excellent Christmas spirit,
and I am very, very proud of you.
All right. Ruby...
you'll be playing the role of Mary.
Hattie and Anna...
there will be two angels this year
because the two of you have both been angels.
Cody, you'll be playing one of the Wise Men,
and Robert and Timmy, you will also be Wise Men.
Do we get to ride camels?
I'm afraid they were fresh out of camels in Buxton.
But your new costumes
should be arriving first thing tomorrow morning.
Um, Emily, would you mind finishing reading the cast list?
Thank you.
Opal, you're going to be the little drummer girl.
If this is about the gown for the Mountie Ball,
I'm kind of in the middle of something.
Not at all.
Dottie's finishing the alterations as we speak.
No, I am here because Lee told me
you were in desperate need
of help with the Christmas festivities.
Well, it wasn't really an emergency.
Now, I know it's hard for you to admit
that you are in over your head,
and you don't want to exhaust yourself
before the Mountie Ball.
You certainly don't want
any more of those unsightly little worry lines...
I don't have worry lines.
Of course you don't.
Thankfully,
I have done dozens of these Christmas pageants,
and I am ready to jump right in.
Actually, what I really need
is some help stringing popcorn for the Christmas tree.
Stringing popcorn?
Mm-hmm. Jump right in.
Henry.
I told you I didn't want to talk about any town business.
That's not why I'm here.
Why did you fire Dottie?
Fired Dottie
because I no longer had use for her services.
But she was trying to take care of you
until you got back on your feet.
And why are you here?
You here because you care about me?
Is that so hard to believe?
A while ago,
that might have meant something to me.
A while ago?
Believe it or not,
I cared about what happened to you
after your husband passed.
That's one of the reasons
why I invested in your cafe.
It was a business deal.
You were just trying to make money.
Well, you can believe whatever you like.
Henry,
I know that you're upset about a lot of things.
Here's what you know.
Whatyou know is that I don't want your help.
You're here because you want to feel good
about the fact that you made an effort.
You're here
because you want to be able to go to sleep at night,
comforted by the fact that you know that you tried.
You're just saying that because you think I took your job.
Then why can't we just stop playing games here?
Why can't you just admit that you enjoy
feeling morally superior to the rest of us?
You're here for you.
Not for me.
For you.
If you really believe that,
then there is nothing more to say.
Well, I really believe that, so I guess we're done.
We're done.
Oh!
Sure could use some more coffee.
Really?
Most people don't like my coffee.
Well, most people forget to be grateful.
That's true enough.
Got any family, Sam?
The world is my family.
The world's your family.
You sure are hard to read.
What I do is who I am.
Got a special occasion coming up?
The Mountie Christmas Ball.
I bet you're taking that pretty schoolteacher.
Yep.
Gonna hire a carriage, go in style.
I got it all planned out.
Yeah, you seem like the kind of guy
who always has everything planned.
I guess I do.
Plans are a funny thing, you know.
How's that?
Well, they don't always turn out the way you expect.
Take me, for instance.
I didn't plan on spending the night in jail.
No, I suppose you didn't.
A few hours ago,
I was hungry, cold.
Now I got a roof over my head,
a hot meal.
Sometimes, what you don't want
turns out to be exactly the thing you need.
It's kinda the story of my life.
How's that?
Well, time was,
like most people,
I wanted to be rich and powerful.
Important.
Well, I never got to be those things,
so I had to make a different life for myself.
Had to figure out what I really wanted.
Well...
I guess we all got to figure that out sooner or later.
Yep.
And when life doesn't go the way you want,
it's a good time to stop and think about it.
♪ Five golden rings
♪ Four calling birds
♪ Three French hens
♪ Two turtle doves
♪ And a partridge in a pear tree ♪
You're a really good singer, Mr. Avery.
And a good babysitter.
Well, thanks to you both.
Now off to bed with you, young man.
It's late. Good night.
'Night!
As a rule,
it's good to have dinner before midnight.
Well, with the town budget,
committee meetings, hearings,
and all these invoices to pay,
I must've lost track of time.
So, how was your visit with Henry today?
Or should I ask?
Well, let's just say it wasn't pleasant.
Abigail, forget about Gowen.
You're trying too hard.
You're absolutely right.
And there's so much to do.
I had no idea how much work went into running a town.
Well, that's my point exactly.
Gowen should be thanking you for relieving him of his duties.
And I should be thanking you for babysitting Cody.
And for this soup!
It's almost as good as mine!
I won't tell if you won't.
Mm!
Jack!
Rosemary. You're up early.
I didn't catch a wink of sleep after I heard what had happened.
How could you arrest that lovely old man?
Mr. Bailey?
Just doing my job.
You have made a terrible mistake.
How so?
He didn't steal that...
oh! ...horrible pin.
How do you know what he stole, Rosemary?
Funny thing, that.
Amuse me.
Well...
I just happened to be straightening out Lee's things,
when, lo and behold,
Iaccidentally
found this small box.
You accidentally
unwrapped it and opened it?
The details aren't important.
What is important is...
have you seen...
that... that thing?
I have.
Well, then you know
I could never have worn it.
So you sold it to Sam?
Well, I didn't want to hurt Lee's feelings.
I thought that, if he thought that he had lost it,
well, then he would just pick something else out.
something a little less-- ugh! ...terrifying.
I know he means well!
Oh, Jack!
I didn't know what to do!
I'm gonna tell you exactly what you're gonna do.
Your husband bought you a very special gift
for your first Christmas together.
So...
you are going to put it right back where you found it,
then, on Christmas morning, when he gives it to you,
you will act surprised and delighted.
"Surprised and delighted"?
You're a very talented actress.
It'll be the performance of a lifetime.
Do you promise
not to say a word about what happened?
My lips are sealed.
You should've told me
Rosemary Coulter sold you the pin.
Oh, it wouldn't have been right!
Because?
Well, the way I see it,
it gave the young lady an opportunity
to learn a lesson about telling the truth,
which is exactly what she needed for Christmas.
So it all worked out the way it was supposed to.
Come on, Dasher.
Pastor!
You're just the man I want to see.
I got something for you.
I don't think you have anything I need.
Don't be too sure.
What do you say?
A man of God can always use a Bible.
And I'll let it go for cheap.
That's okay. I've got plenty of those at church.
Well, it is pretty old.
I got it from Granville Penitentiary.
They were giving away some old books.
Wait.
Do you mind if I look at that for a second?
I did time at Granville.
Lot of people did time at Granville.
I saved it because of the inscription on the back.
The Saint Francis prayer.
"Lord, let me be an instrument of Thy peace.
"Where there is hatred, let me sow love,
"where there is doubt, faith,
where there is despair, hope."
It's a favorite of mine.
Mine, too.
Which is why I wrote it there.
This was my bible.
Is that right?
Oh...
You must've changed a lot of lives with this book.
And I have a feeling you're gonna change a lot more.
Like that friend you were telling me about,
the one with the little boy.
She left without telling anyone where she was going,
there's no way to find her.
Three wise men found Bethlehem by following a star.
Well, they had a lot of help.
So have you, my friend.
How much you want for that?
Oh, take it.
The way I look at it,
I'm just returning it to its rightful owner.
Good morning, Miss Yost.
Katie!
Katie, when-when Nancy Tucker came to you for supplies,
did she happen to mention where she was headed?
I don't think so.
Wait! She did say
she needed enough rations to get to Albert Falls.
Albert Falls.
Thanks.
Looks like the pastor just found his star after all.
Oh, it's pretty snug. You want to hand me that mallet?
Yeah.
- Thank you. - Yeah.
Watch out!
The freight wagon's late.
That silly wagon is always running late.
I'm sure it'll be here in no time.
I want to make sure everything's taken care of
before we leave for the ball tonight.
Don't you worry about it.
I will tie up any loose ends.
You will?
Of course. You asked for my help,
and Christmas is the season for giving.
Pardon me. I thought I should
deliver this in person.
Thank you.
"Train derailed outside Union City.
Track closed."
There won't be any deliveries till after Christmas.
Oh!
Everyone's going to be so disappointed.
It's not that bad.
Yes, it is.
What am I going to tell the children?
Timmy wanted a train set,
and Ruby had her heart set
on a doll's house.
And poor Maggie,
all she wanted was a "Biddy Betsy."
Maggie isn't going to get her doll?
Cody, why don't you run outside and play for a little while?
The stove I ordered for the Lawsons
was on that train.
They'll understand.
I know, but it's...
it's so unfair.
I better let Jack know.
No, we're fine,
but we could use some help shoring up the beam.
Excuse me.
Elizabeth!
Jack--
I've got some bad news.
You heard about the train?
It gets worse. The beam fell
at the apartment
we were fixing up for the Lawson family.
Now, we're all okay,
but we're behind schedule.
What are we gonna do?
Whatever we have to.
Now, we said we're gonna make this
a special Christmas for the town,
we're gonna deliver.
Even if we have to work
straight through till Christmas Eve.
But the Mountie Ball...
Yeah.
I really want us to go...
but I think this is more important.
I'm so glad you said that. We can't leave now.
So... what's the next step?
If I could have everyone's attention...
Just because the freight wagon didn't come through
doesn't mean we have to give up on Christmas.
It just means we have to change our plans,
because everything we need,
we have right here, in Hope Valley.
Where are we going to get toys for the children?
Well, we'll make them ourselves.
There simply isn't time!
Christmas Eve is tomorrow night!
We can do it if we all pitch in.
When I was a girl, we made dolls
from cornhusks and clothespins.
Well, there's plenty of scrap wood at the mill
to build toys with, if we want.
Well, what about the new homes for the settlers?
I heard they can't be finished in time.
Anything can be fixed.
All we need are a few extra sets of hands.
What are we going to do about the stove
for Kurt and Wilma's place?
I've kept my old stove,
but the bottom's rusted out.
We've got a new welder in town.
Mr. Edwards, I'll see what he can do.
What about costumes for the nativity pageant?
I could probably whip something up.
I have a wonderful idea!
Why don't we hold the Nativity Pageant right here?
We could decorate it to look like an old barn.
It'll be like a real manger.
There's still Christmas Eve dinner.
For about a hundred of us.
Leave that to me.
Everyone go home and look through your pantries.
Then go to your neighbor's house,
and look through their pantries.
Whatever you can spare, bring to the cafe.
I think this calls for a vote.
All those in favor of saving Christmas, say "aye."
Aye!
What can I do for you, young man?
I need a toy. Do you have any left?
I'm sorry, it's almost Christmas.
I'm all out of toys.
Oh.
Uh, what was it you were looking for?
A doll. It was for a friend.
I see! You're trying to be a good boy
so you get a part in that Christmas pageant.
I already got the part.
Then you don't need to give her the doll.
I just want to, I guess.
And I promised she could have a tea party at Miss Abigail's.
Now that I think on it...
I just might have something left.
Let me check.
Oh... It's not very fancy, I'm afraid.
Just an old "Biddy Betsy" doll.
That's just what she wanted!
Imagine that.
Can I buy it?
Uh... it's my last one.
I've got seven cents!
She's worth more than that, wouldn't you say?
It's all I've got.
Maybe we could make a trade.
I brought these cotton balls from the infirmary.
I thought we could use them as stuffing for the dolls.
Oh! They will do very nicely.
I haven't done much sewing,
apart from stitching up cuts and scrapes.
- We're very glad you're here. - Indeed.
I've never built a house for a doll before.
Oh, It's just like building a real house.
Only, um, smaller.
Yes, but a real house has a set of plans.
I took the liberty of drawing something up.
It's got the flavor
of a Frank Lloyd Wright Colonial Revival.
Great. Great.
Ah, this is pretty much a goner.
Bottom's all rusted out.
Yeah, and the firebox is cracked, too.
So?
How long do you think it'll take to fix?
Well, maybe a couple of days.
Can you get it done by tomorrow night?
I'll do my best.
Thanks, George.
Frank, you look like you're headed
somewhere in a hurry.
Nancy Tucker. Giddyap!
Good luck.
So what have we got?
Canned fish, canned oysters,
more canned fish, more oysters,
lots and lots of beans,
and then there's some bacon from the Campbells' farm.
Not much of it.
Ned Yost brought over the flour and the sugar and the potatoes,
but he says it's the last of it.
And you knocked on every door?
Everyone was counting on the freight wagon,
so there wasn't much left.
How do we make a Christmas Eve banquet
out of this?
We start with an oyster soup,
fish stew, potato pie,
bacon and beans,
and finish it with
a carrot-and-chicken surprise casserole.
But we don't have any chicken.
That's the surprise.
What's the count?
Including the ones that you brought,
we have a dozen that are ready,
and that leaves 28 to go.
We still need to do finishing touches on the tree
and the backdrop for the play.
And it's getting late.
Do you think they work this hard in the North Pole?
The next time I see Santa,
I'm gonna ask him.
Abigail...
What time is it?
It's nearly 3:00.
Where's Clara?
I sent her upstairs to take a break.
How're things going at the saloon?
Well, people are fading fast.
We're gonna have to do something
if we want to finish on time.
Yeah.
I guess it's time for my secret weapon.
You have a secret weapon?
Special blend of coffee from south of the border.
I used it when I tracked "Billy the Kid"
to the coast of Mexico.
Stayed awake for three straight days.
Oh. Well, let's not make it that strong.
I'll boil the water.
Good morning.
Oh... good morning.
I'm so tired I can barely move,
but we got it all done.
Good.
And we finished the place for the Lawson family.
And the stove?
Well, George Edwards fixed it,
so I'm gonna take it over there
as soon as I can find a volunteer with a wagon.
It just so happens I have one of those!
You're on, Sam.
This is gonna sound crazy,
but I'm kind of glad
the freight train didn't come through.
You're right.
That does sound crazy.
I always knew the people of Hope Valley
really cared about each other,
but I never realized how much.
Well, I guess good things
really do happen when plans change.
Truer words were never spoken.
I'll hitch up the horse and we can go get that stove.
Sounds good.
Good work.
You too.
Pastor!
You wouldn't by chance have a cup of coffee
for a weary traveler, would ya?
Of course.
What are you doing way out here?
I was worried about you and your mom.
You don't have to worry about us.
We'll be fine.
So where are you headed?
Someplace new.
There are too many memories in Hope Valley.
They're not all bad.
It's where your father died, Harper.
It's where he taught me how to fish.
And where I made friends.
Harper.
You still have friends there,
and they'd like you to come back.
And I'd like you to finish up your coffee and leave.
I already said I don't want anything from you.
Yeah, you did.
Then I remembered a prayer I learned a long time ago...
"Lord, let me be an instrument of Thy peace.
Where there is hatred, let me sow love,
where there is doubt, faith..."
"...Where there is despair,
"hope,
where there is darkness,
light, and where there is sadness--"
"...Joy."
Saint Francis' prayer.
My dad taught it to me.
It was his favorite.
I didn't know.
I think your husband
would like you to come back, Nancy.
Dad was the one who brought us to Hope Valley, Mama.
You used to say that he always knew what was best.
I think he still does.
Whoa!
Thanks, Sam.
My pleasure.
Good boy.
Hey, Jack! You got a minute?
Yeah, Lee.
Hey. I just took the stove to the Lawsons' place.
Uh, some of the ladies are cleaning it up now.
Oh, great. Well, then I have more good news.
Remember the gift that I bought for Rosemary that went missing?
The pin?
The pin. Yes. Well...
turns out that it was at the bottom
of the trunk after all.
It slipped behind the lining. I don't know what happened.
Anyway, I'm really sorry if I caused any trouble.
No trouble at all. I'm just glad you found it.
Me too, and I can't wait to see Rosemary's face
when she opens that box.
I bet she's going to be surprised and delighted.
I hope so. Anyway, I'll see you tonight, okay?
I think if we put the buffet against the wall
and move the tables out,
there'll be enough standing room for everyone.
Christmas is officially back on track!
Oh, except that you and Jack
didn't get to go to the Mountie Ball.
It was the right decision to stay.
Can I go play with Robert?
Yes, if you are back in time to get ready
for the pageant.
Okay.
Cody, where's your baseball?
I...
traded it.
Traded it? With who?
Mrs. Stanton!
I don't think
we've had the pleasure of a formal introduction.
No, but I've heard all about you,
and I know you've met my little boy.
Cody. Yeah, I saw him earlier.
Oh, I'm not looking for him.
I came to talk to you.
About the baseball.
It was a fair trade.
May I ask what he got in exchange?
Humanity. Kindness.
Everything Christmas is all about.
I don't think you answered my question.
Cody traded that ball
for something one of his friends wanted.
He said she'd be heartbroken
if she didn't get it for Christmas.
A "Biddy Betsy" doll?
One and the same!
And you had one?
Yes, indeed!
It's funny how those kind of things
just work out sometimes.
He really loved that baseball.
I can't believe he did that for Maggie.
He's a pretty special young man.
Yes, he is.
We're serving Christmas Eve dinner tonight
for everyone in town.
I... Well, I hope you'll join us.
Well, that's a fine invitation,
but I think I'm heading out soon.
Don't want to wear out my welcome.
Well, if you change your mind, we'd love to have you.
How about you, Mrs. Stanton?
Any last-minute shopping to do?
Oh, I think I've got Christmas taken care of.
You sure you haven't forgotten anyone?
I'm sure.
Well...
there is Henry Gowen.
But he doesn't want anything from me,
or anyone else.
Yeah, I saw him out for a walk.
He looked like a real sourpuss to me.
That's him, all right.
So...
why are you worried about him at all?
I don't know.
Maybe because he's one of us,
for better or worse.
Have you told him that?
Well, he didn't give me a chance.
He said I was pretending to care to keep up appearances.
Oh, that can't be true.
It's not.
Well...
Guess I'm right out of luck.
Well, how's that?
Because the best gift you can give Old Sourpuss
for Christmas
is the truth.
Even though I'd rather sell you a necktie.
I think I will pass on that.
Thank you for everything, Mr. Bailey.
You've been a real angel.
Oh, I have been called worse.
Meant to lock that door.
I thought we were done here.
We were.
And then someone started me thinking...
And I realized something...
There's a reason you're here, Henry.
There's a reason you came back.
I don't need to listen to this right now.
Yes, you do.
And you're gonna hear me out, whether you like it or not.
You came back to Hope Valley because this is your home,
and the people here are your family.
You need us, Henry.
And the truth is,
I need you.
So you were right after all.
I am here for me.
I'm here because I have a town to run,
and I need your help to do it.
And I won't let you push me away.
I'll be back tomorrow,
and the day after that and the day after that.
Because I'm giving you a second chance for Christmas.
A chance to work together.
And a chance to start over.
Merry Christmas, Henry.
And welcome home.
"And the glory of the Lord
"shone round about them, and they were sore afraid.
But the angel said unto them..."
"Fear not,
"for behold,
"I bring you good tidings of great joy,
which shall be to all people."
"For, unto you is born this day,
"in the city of David
a Savior which is Christ the Lord.
"And this shall be a sign unto you--
"you shall find the babe
wrapped in swaddling clothes and lying in the manger."
♪ Away in the manger
♪ No crib for his bed
♪ The little Lord Jesus
♪ Lay down his sweet head
♪ The stars In the night sky ♪
♪ Looked down where he lay
♪ The little Lord Jesus
♪ Asleep on the hay ♪
You mind if I say a few words?
Oh, of course!
I don't have a sermon prepared for you tonight.
It's hard to follow the greatest story ever told,
so I won't even try.
But I do want to remind everyone
that the greatest gift we receive
is God's love.
The greatest gift that we give
is the love we have for one other.
Merry Christmas, everyone.
Merry Christmas!
Merry Christmas.
All right, everyone, well, I believe our program is over,
unless, of course, I'm forgetting something.
Santa!
Oh, no! How could I forget Santa?
Ho, ho, ho, ho!
Merry Christmas, boys and girls! Merry Christmas!
Now, that is a sight I never thought I'd live to see.
Well, my money's on you for next year.
You can't keep winning at darts forever, my friend.
["Santa" Bill]: Merry Christmas, everyone!
Well...
I believe this one is...
for Timmy.
That's me!
Merry Christmas, young man.
Thank you.
Who's Ruby?
That's me!
Is this really for me?
Yes, it is. Merry Christmas.
Is there someone here named Maggie?
Biddy Betsy!
Merry Christmas!
I know what you did for Maggie,
and I'm very proud of you.
["Santa" Bill]: This says it's for Harper!
That's me.
Merry Christmas, son.
Merry Christmas, children. Come!
Merry Christmas!
I have to lock up the jail.
Save me a seat if you can?
Oh, I'm pretty sure we'll be standing.
All we need now is some snow
for a perfect Christmas Eve.
Well, I don't know.
It's pretty clear for that.
Maybe I'm asking too much.
Looks like everyone enjoyed themselves.
I believe they did.
I'm surprised to see you're still here.
Isn't there somewhere else you're supposed to be tonight?
Not that I know of.
Think again.
How much?
No charge.
Jesse!
I need your help with something.
Of course.
What can I do for you?
Mr. Bailey!
Are you sure you don't want to join us for supper?
Well, that's very kind of you, but it's time for me to leave.
I hope you'll come back and visit us.
I will.
But, in the meantime, I have a favor to ask.
I have a long trip ahead of me, and...
Dasher here, he never signed up for that.
He needs a real home.
Do you know anyone in town I could trust to look after him?
Someone... kind?
With a good heart?
I know the perfect person.
You really mean it?
If you promise to take care of each other.
I promise! I promise! I promise!
Come on, Dasher!
[Elizabeth, writing]: And so...
with a little help from a simple peddler
who knew exactly what everyone needed,
what looked like disappointment
turned into a Christmas miracle.
The new families from the settlement
were able to move
out of the tents and into real homes.
Rosemary was surprised and delighted
with Lee's unique gift.
And the warmth of the Christmas spirit
was rediscovered and reborn.
By the time I got home,
I didn't think there could be a more perfect Christmas,
but it turned out...
I was wrong.
"The pleasure of your company is requested at the saloon.
Formal attire."
May I have this dance, Miss Thatcher?
I would be delighted, Constable Thornton.
Giddyap!