TEASER
FADE IN:
EXT. TELEGRAPH OFFICE - DAY ONE 1
COLLEEN and BECKY come out of the telegraph office. Colleen's
clutching an unopened letter.
BECKY
Open it.
COLLEEN
I can't.
BECKY
Sure ya can.
COLLEEN
I'm so nervous...
BECKY
Let's just see what it says.
Colleen looks around, makes sure no one's watching. Starts to
open it. Becky gives her an encouraging smile, but she's
nervous herself, dying of curiosity.
BECKY
Go on.
Colleen opens the letter and scans it. Then she jumps in the
air and screams. Becky screams. They hug each other and laugh
and scream all at once.
EXT. HOMESTEAD - DAY ONE 2
BRIAN and SULLY are sitting on the porch, playing checkers.
MIKE holds KATIE in her lap while she's shelling peas.
COLLEEN (O.S.)
Ma! Brian! Sully!
They look up as Colleen comes flying toward them holding the
letter.
COLLEEN
Colorado Seminary College. I got
accepted!
Mike, Sully and Brian react with joy, rush over to hug her.
MIKE
That's wonderful!
(CONTINUED)
2.
CONTINUED: 2
BRIAN
I knew they'd take you.
SULLY
Congratulations!
COLLEEN
I still can't believe it. I keep
reading this over and over.
Brian takes the letter from her and reads it to himself.
MIKE
This is going to be the most
exciting time for you, Colleen.
You're going to meet bright young
people from all over... We'll
have to find you a place to live.
COLLEEN
They sent a list of rooming houses
near the college.
BRIAN
Hey, you gotta be in Denver next
week.
SULLY
That soon?
Colleen takes the letter back and reads aloud.
COLLEEN
"Please arrive on the fourteenth
to complete matriculation.
Classes begin the seventeenth."
She looks up, makes calculations.
COLLEEN
That's... a week from Friday. Oh,
my gosh. I'm not ready.
MIKE
Don't worry. We're going to get
you ready.
SULLY
Let's have some supper.
(to Colleen)
Or are ya too excited?
COLLEEN
(after a beat)
I'm going to college!
(CONTINUED)
3.
CONTINUED: (2) 2
She jumps again and wants to hug everyone.
INT. MIKE AND SULLY'S BEDROOM - NIGHT ONE 3
CLOSE ON Sully's face in a mirror. He's shaving, just
finishing, preparing for what he hopes will be a romantic
moment.
+WIDER ANGLE 4
Katie's in her crib. Mike's in bed, starting to drift off to
sleep. Sully comes over, sits down beside her, leans down and
kisses her cheek. She stirs. He kisses her neck.
MIKE
Mmm. You smell nice.
SULLY
Ya sleepin'?
MIKE
Almost.
(yawns)
Sully slips her gown down and kisses her shoulder.
SULLY
I love your skin.
MIKE
Sully...
SULLY
Hmmm?
MIKE
I can't quite grasp it. She's
actually going to leave.
SULLY
(kisses her)
Denver ain't so far.
MIKE
I suppose that's true.
Mike starts to kiss back, tentatively at first, then with more
feeling... when...
We HEAR the baby cry. A few peeps. Mike stops, waiting to see
if Katie will go back to sleep, but she starts crying more.
Sully tries to hold her attention, but Mike loses all interest
in kissing.
(CONTINUED)
4.
CONTINUED: 4
MIKE
(perplexed)
I just fed her... An hour ago?
SULLY
Maybe she'll go back to sleep.
MIKE
She never has.
SULLY
She might. Just wait...
But Mike disengages from Sully and goes to pick Katie up.
Sully looks disappointed.
MIKE
Sweetheart. What's the matter?
From a discreet angle, we see Mike put Katie to her breast.
MIKE
You're hungry again.
She settles into nursing. Looks at Sully.
MIKE
I don't understand. For a while,
she was going three hours between
feedings. Now, it seems...
(she doesn't want to
face this)
...Since I've gone back to the
clinic, she doesn't sleep as well.
Wants to nurse more.
Sully tries to reassure himself as well as Mike.
SULLY
She'll settle down.
(he hopes)
Soon.
MIKE
I'm sorry.
Sully turns over to go to sleep.
Katie stops nursing and starts to cry. Mike tries to comfort
her, glances at Sully, then back at Katie. Nobody's happy, and
she's in the middle.
FADE OUT.
END OF TEASER
5.
ACT ONE
FADE IN:
EXT. GENERAL STORE - DAY TWO 5
Mike, holding Katie, is shopping with Colleen. LOREN brings
out some dusty boxes of boots. EMMA is taking Colleen's
measurements with a tape, jotting the numbers down.
EMMA
I can finish the coat and two
dresses. Maybe three.
MIKE
By Friday? Are you sure?
EMMA
I don't have any other work.
(embarrassed)
Fact, you're the first customers
to order a dress.
LOREN
It's about time, too.
COLLEEN
Well, I'm glad to be the first.
Once people see your work, you'll
have lots of business.
LOREN
(to Mike)
With all you're orderin', this
ain't gonna be cheap.
MIKE
Well, luckily, her grandmother
sent a generous gift.
LOREN
Ah, Elizabeth. That lady has
style.
He holds out a pair of boots to Colleen.
LOREN
These are your size.
COLLEEN
I like the ones that come up
higher.
LOREN
This is all I got.
(CONTINUED)
6.
CONTINUED: 5
COLLEEN
Guess I'll take 'em.
MIKE
You could buy boots in Denver.
They have lovely shops... the
latest styles.
COLLEEN
I don't think I'll have time for
shopping.
LOREN
Course you won't.
MIKE
Yes, you will. You don't want to
spend all your time with your
books.
COLLEEN
But that's what you did.
MIKE
And I regret it. There's a good
theater in Denver, and concerts,
and you'll want to have dinners
with friends. That's part of your
education also.
The baby starts to fuss. Mike shifts her from one arm to the
other, starts patting her back.
MIKE
(smiles)
Part of me wishes I were going off
to college again.
Colleen reaches over and takes the baby from Mike.
COLLEEN
I feel bad, leavin' you right now.
MIKE
Don't give it a thought.
COLLEEN
But with Katie so young...
MIKE
We'll all be fine.
COLLEEN
I could wait 'til next year...
(CONTINUED)
7.
CONTINUED: (2) 5
MIKE
Colleen, it never seems like the
right moment to leave. There's
always something pressing, some
good reason to put things off.
So, what you simply do is -- take
a deep breath and go.
Colleen smiles, imagining the moment when she'll step on the
train and begin her new life.
INT. CLINIC - DAY TWO 6
ANDREW is at the desk, looking through a medical book and
making notes when Mike walks in with Katie. Andrew stands
abruptly as Mike settles Katie in her crib in the corner.
MIKE
Good morning, Andrew.
(motions him to sit)
That's all right.
ANDREW
I was checking the dosage for Mr.
Ford... the digitalis.
MIKE
Is he coming in today?
(Andrew nods)
We'll see how he's doing and
adjust it if necessary.
ANDREW
Are you planning on staying the
full day?
MIKE
Until about two. I'd appreciate
it if you could take over after
that.
ANDREW
Certainly.
MIKE
So this morning, if you have other
business to attend to...
ANDREW
Actually, I was going to clean the
instruments.
MIKE
You just did, the other day.
(CONTINUED)
8.
CONTINUED: 6
ANDREW
I think they need it... if you
don't mind.
MIKE
(she minds, a little)
That's fine.
Bell RINGS. Mike goes to open the door and lets in MRS. DARCY,
leading her ten-year-old, MEG, by the hand. Meg looks pink and
feverish.
MRS. DARCY
Dr. Quinn. Meg's feelin' poorly.
She's real warm and her head's
been hurtin'. Could you take a
look?
MIKE
Of course. Meg, let's have you
sit over here.
Mike leads her to the examining table, as Mrs. Darcy catches
sight of the baby and goes to look at her.
MRS. DARCY
Is this your baby? She's so
pretty.
(reaches down to
stroke her)
MIKE
Thank you.
(to Meg)
Let me listen to your heart.
She looks around for her stethoscope. Andrew has it around his
neck. He takes it off and hands it to her. Mike unbuttons
Meg's blouse, (she has a camisole underneath) and notices spots
on the upper chest.
MIKE
Meg... did you have chicken pox
when you were little?
MEG
I don't know.
MRS. DARCY
No. She never did.
MIKE
She has them now.
(starts)
Oh, no!
(CONTINUED)
9.
CONTINUED: (2) 6
MEG
(frightened)
Is it bad?
Mike glances toward the corner.
+MIKE'S POV 7
Katie, innocently lying in her cradle.
+BACK TO SCENE 8
Mike hurries to the basin to scrub her hands. Tries to
reassure Meg and her mother.
MIKE
No, you'll be fine. Just stay
quiet, get lots of rest. Try not
to scratch.
(to mother)
A warm bath with oatmeal will
soothe the itching.
She rushes to Katie, scoops her up, trying to cover her face
with the blanket, and starts for the door.
MIKE
Andrew... could you... please?
ANDREW
Of course.
She hurries out.
INT. HOMESTEAD - NIGHT TWO 9
Mike is pacing, holding Katie protectively, as Sully tries to
reassure her.
MIKE
What was I thinking?
SULLY
Take it easy. She's gonna catch
the chicken pox some time.
MIKE
I'd rather it be when she's older,
and stronger.
SULLY
She might not even get it. It was
only a few minutes.
(CONTINUED)
10.
CONTINUED: 9
MIKE
But it's highly contagious.
SULLY
Look, it could have happened
anywhere. At the store, the
cafe...
MIKE
(not listening)
I never know who's going to walk
in the clinic with something
serious. Typhus, influenza. I
can't possibly have her in the
room.
SULLY
Well... How 'bout upstairs, in
one of the recovery rooms?
Sully puts his arm around Mike, kisses her cheek, but Mike
seems oblivious. She takes the baby over to a cradle by the
hearth and places her in it. Gently rocks her.
MIKE
Go to sleep, my angel. Yes,
that's my sweet girl.
INT. CLINIC - DAY THREE 10
Mike is slipping on her gown as Andrew packs away supplies.
ANDREW
How's Katie doing?
MIKE
All right, but as you know,
there's no way to tell yet. The
incubation period is two weeks.
ANDREW
I wouldn't worry. Babies her age
-- even younger -- come through
just fine.
MIKE
Colleen's going to watch her at
home, until we can convert one of
the recovery rooms into a nursery.
ANDREW
I had a thought...
(hesitates)
(CONTINUED)
11.
CONTINUED: 10
MIKE
Yes?
ANDREW
Have you considered trying one of
those prepared infant foods?
MIKE
Heavens, no.
ANDREW
You could keep her at home and you
wouldn't have to rush back to
nurse.
Bell RINGS.
MIKE
Excuse me.
Mike goes to answer the door and lets in Loren.
MIKE
Good morning, Loren. Just have a
seat.
As Loren sits down, Mike goes to the basin to scrub her hands.
Andrew approaches.
ANDREW
Some of the most eminent doctors
in Boston recommend infant food
when a woman can't supply breast
milk.
MIKE
But that's not the case here.
ANDREW
They've had excellent results.
LOREN
(overhearing them)
Are you talkin' about that
Liebig's food? I could order
some.
Mike sets up the privacy screen in front of the table.
MIKE
Thank you, but my father believed
very strongly that breast milk is
essential for babies.
(MORE)
(CONTINUED)
12.
CONTINUED: (2) 10
MIKE (CONT'D)
He told his patients to avoid all
varieties of so-called infants'
food.
(beckoning Loren to
table)
Now, let's see how you're doing.
Loren disappears behind the screen with Dr. Mike. Andrew looks
frustrated -- he hasn't been heard.
EXT. HOMESTEAD - DAY THREE 11
DOROTHY, driving a wagon, pulls up to the homestead, where
Sully's mending a fence. He helps her out of the wagon.
DOROTHY
Mornin', Sully. I brought ya a
pot of stew.
SULLY
Thanks. Sure smells good.
She lifts the pot from the wagon and Sully takes it, sets it on
the porch, then goes back to mending the fence.
DOROTHY
Well, I figured you could use it.
How're ya all doin'?
SULLY
Good.
DOROTHY
I bet you're tired.
SULLY
Not really.
DOROTHY
It's a big change.
Sully shrugs. Dorothy senses that things aren't so smooth.
She probes a bit more.
DOROTHY
There's a lot more work? And you
don't get a night's rest... You
lose your privacy.
SULLY
Yep.
(CONTINUED)
13.
CONTINUED: 11
DOROTHY
Your wife's got less time for
everybody else.
SULLY
That's true.
DOROTHY
I know it sounds crazy, but
sometimes a father finds himself
feelin'... well, jealous of the
baby.
Sully lets out a small laugh and nods in recognition.
DOROTHY
You're not the first man who's
felt that way.
(choosing her words)
But there's certain things only a
husband can provide.
Sully is silent.
DOROTHY
(struggling to find
words)
I mean, after you were married...
Well, I know... Michaela... It
meant a lot to her.
Sully shrugs and looks away.
DOROTHY
Well... Lemme tell ya something.
After a woman gives birth, her
attention kinda shifts. She's
feeding the baby and her mind's
fixed on it every hour of the day.
So you just gotta help her a
little.
SULLY
I don't wanna press her.
DOROTHY
'Course not. But you can... court
her.
Sully stares at her.
DOROTHY
You remember how to do that.
Sully considers this. Then he and Dorothy share a smile.
14.
EXT. FIELD - DAY THREE 12
Colleen and Becky watch Andrew, to whom Colleen is giving a
riding lesson.
COLLEEN
That's it -- just relax.
BECKY
Don't pull him so tight --
They react as Andrew falls off (off screen). Colleen goes to
him, as Becky perches on a fence, watching. Andrew dusts
himself off.
COLLEEN
Everybody falls off.
BECKY
(good-humored
teasing)
Even Colleen.
COLLEEN
I told him that.
BECKY
Ya just gotta get back on.
Andrew hesitates, then hoists himself into the saddle.
COLLEEN
We'll take it slow 'til you get
your confidence back.
ANDREW
I never had it to begin with.
COLLEEN
Just pretend, then. Walk him in a
circle by yourself.
Colleen lets go of the reins but Andrew's not ready.
ANDREW
Wait. Maybe this is enough for
today. Don't you have things to
do... It's only a week until you
leave.
COLLEEN
That's all right.
Andrew tries another stalling tactic.
(CONTINUED)
14A.
CONTINUED: 12
ANDREW
Colleen, I haven't had a chance to
tell you how happy I am for you.
It's admirable -- women going to
college and entering the
professions.
COLLEEN
Thanks. But I'm feelin' kinda
strange. I'm gonna miss my
friends. My family. Working with
Dr. Mike... and you.
(CONTINUED)
15.
CONTINUED: (2) 12
ANDREW
We'll have lots of opportunities
to work together. In fact, why
don't we go back to the clinic
now...
(starts to dismount)
COLLEEN
Oh, no. Not 'til you ride in a
circle by yourself.
Reluctantly, Andrew signals the horse to walk forward.
COLLEEN
There ya go.
ANDREW
I'd feel better if somebody was up
here with me.
COLLEEN
You can't ride very far that way.
BECKY
Walk him over here.
Andrew turns the horse so it comes up beside Becky on the
fence. She slips on behind him and holds onto his waist. Both
laugh as they walk in a circle.
ANDREW
You see? He knows he'd better
behave now.
HOLD ON COLLEEN, watching them, amused and a little jealous.
INT. HOMESTEAD - NIGHT THREE 13
Colleen's heating up Dorothy's stew. Brian's setting the
table. Mike's in the arm chair, having fallen asleep while
nursing Katie. Sully walks over to Mike, holding a piece of
leather, and places his hand gently on her shoulder.
SULLY
Michaela?
She starts awake.
MIKE
Oh! What... is it time for
supper?
SULLY
Just about. I made ya somethin'.
(CONTINUED)
16.
CONTINUED: 13
He helps her to her feet and places the leather over her head.
We can see now, it's an Indian-style baby sling.
MIKE
What's this?
SULLY
For the baby.
He takes the baby from her and places it in the sling.
SULLY
Some of the Indian women carry
their babies like this when
they're cooking, or gatherin'
wood. And the babies don't cry.
MIKE
Thank you. Let's see if she likes
it.
COLLEEN
Supper's ready!
BRIAN
Good, I'm starvin'.
They take seats, Mike carrying Katie in the sling. But Colleen
remains standing.
COLLEEN
Would you excuse me? I've got a
stomach ache...
MIKE
(concerned)
You do?
COLLEEN
It's nothin', really. I just want
to lie down.
She walks upstairs. Mike and Sully exchange a look, then start
passing food around and eating.
MIKE
This is wonderful, Sully. I can
eat with two hands again.
BRIAN
Stew's great.
There's a KNOCK at the door. They freeze. Sully goes to open
the door. ZEKE walks in, taking off his hat.
(CONTINUED)
17.
CONTINUED: (2) 13
ZEKE
Evenin', folks. Sorry to disturb
ya.
MIKE
Good evening, Zeke. Would you
like to sit down?
ZEKE
Thank you kindly, but it's... my
boy. He fell off the barn roof.
He's all right, but he's got some
cuts. Might need a few stitches.
Mike stands up, takes the baby out of the sling.
BRIAN
I'll take her.
She hands the baby to Brian. Turns to Sully.
MIKE
This shouldn't take long. I'll be
back before Katie's next feeding.
She grabs a shawl and follows Zeke out the door.
INT. FARM HOUSE - NIGHT THREE 14
Mike is bending over a boy about nine, SAM, whose face is
covered with bandages soaked through with blood. The boy
moans, as his MOTHER and Zeke look on.
MIKE
I'm going to open the bandages so
I can take a look. You're a brave
young man, Sam.
She cuts the bandages and lifts them off. Looks closely, then
turns to parents.
MIKE
These are extensive cuts. From
the nose, all the way around to
the ear. He needs a good many
stitches.
She reaches in her bag for chloroform.
MIKE
(to Sam)
We're going to put you to sleep,
and when you wake up, it'll all be
done.
(CONTINUED)
18.
CONTINUED: 14
INTERCUT WITH:
INT. HOMESTEAD - NIGHT THREE 15
Sully has Katie propped on pillows on the couch. Brian's
playing her a song on his flute.
SULLY
She likes that music.
BRIAN
When you get older, Katie, we'll
get you your own flute. Then we
can play duets.
SULLY
You like havin' a little sister?
Brian considers this, and nods.
BRIAN
Yeah. I'm glad I ain't the baby
anymore. I'm the big brother.
Brian resumes playing flute. Sully smiles.
INT. FARM HOUSE 16
Mike finishes cleaning the wounds and is ready to start
stitching. Mike searches through her bag.
MIKE
I'm going to use the finest
thread, and the smallest needle.
ZEKE
Why's that?
MIKE
(to parents)
Because it's his face, I want to
make very small sutures. It will
take more time, but there'll be
less chance of scars.
INT. HOMESTEAD 17
The baby's fussing. Sully jiggles her on his lap. Brian has
one of her toys - a stuffed rabbit - and tries to distract her.
(CONTINUED)
19.
CONTINUED: 17
BRIAN
Look. Here comes the bunny. Hop,
hop, hop!
SULLY
Hang on, Katie.
BRIAN
Ma's comin' back real soon.
The baby cries more.
INT. FARM HOUSE 18
Mike is still stitching. It's hard, tense work, and she's
perspiring.
MIKE
What time is it?
Zeke looks at a clock or pocket watch.
ZEKE
Ten past midnight.
MIKE
(anguished)
Oh, dear. I should never have
left her.
ZEKE
Left who?
MIKE
I still have to suture the ear.
INT. HOMESTEAD 19
Katie is now screaming. Sully paces with her.
BRIAN
Can't we give her somethin'? Milk
from our cow?
SULLY
Nope.
BRIAN
I feel so bad.
SULLY
(frustrated)
So do I, but there's nothin' we
can do. Nothin'.
(CONTINUED)
20.
CONTINUED: 19
He walks back and forth again. Door opens and Mike rushes in.
She makes a bee-line for the baby and sits down to nurse her.
The baby immediately quiets down.
Mike, stricken with guilt, looks at Sully and Brian.
MIKE
I'm sorry.
(to baby)
I'm so sorry, Katie.
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT ONE
21.
ACT TWO
FADE IN:
INT. RECOVERY ROOM/NURSERY - DAY FOUR 20
Sully and MATTHEW are moving furniture to make room for the
bassinet. Mike is folding diapers, with Katie in the sling.
Sully sets the bassinet down.
SULLY
How's this? She'll be comfortable
and out of harm's way.
MIKE
Let's see.
Mike places Katie in the bassinet. Then she, Sully and Matthew
stare at her.
MATTHEW
She likes it here. She's smilin'.
MIKE
Is she?
SULLY
Yeah, look.
MIKE
You're right.
Sully and Mike put their arms around each other. It's as if
they're looking at a rainbow.
MATTHEW
I gotta get going. Preston's got
a shipment of silver comin' on the
train. I'll stop by later.
(he leaves)
SULLY
You all set now?
MIKE
Yes. But... what happens when I
go downstairs?
SULLY
Well, you could leave the door
open.
(CONTINUED)
22.
CONTINUED: 20
MIKE
(nods)
I'll be able to hear her.
SULLY
But what if you don't? If she
gets stuck, or somethin' falls on
her...
MIKE
And she can't cry...
SULLY
Maybe somebody oughta stay with
her.
MIKE
Colleen's at the store, being
fitted for her coat. Brian's
working at Dorothy's...
SULLY
I'll watch her.
MIKE
You don't mind? Just for today?
SULLY
Why not? I can't help at the
reservation anymore. And the
trappin's no good. I'd have to
travel real far to find
anything...
(glances at baby)
Don't feel like doin' that now.
MIKE
I understand.
SULLY
(shifts
uncomfortably)
Gotta find some other work to do.
MIKE
You will.
SULLY
You're lucky that way.
MIKE
Lucky?
SULLY
Your course is set. Everything's
clear.
(CONTINUED)
23.
CONTINUED: (2) 20
MIKE
Oh, Sully, I'm not sure of that at
all. Sometimes what seems clear
can turn very cloudy.
They hug, holding on to each other for comfort.
INT. CLINIC - DAY FOUR 21
Andrew examines HANK, who sneezes and rubs his eyes.
HANK
It's never been this bad before.
At night, I feel like I can't
breathe.
ANDREW
The best cure for hay asthma is to
remove yourself from all
vegetation. Go to the ocean, or
high in the mountains.
HANK
I can't just up and leave.
Mike comes downstairs, nods to Andrew and Hank. Not wanting to
interfere, she goes to her desk.
ANDREW
The next best thing is stramonium.
Have you tried it?
Hank coughs and shakes his head, no. Andrew reaches in the
cabinet for a tin of leaves.
ANDREW
You smoke the dried leaves in a
pipe or in cigarette form. Try
it.
(hands him tin)
If that doesn't help, let me know.
In a fit of coughing and sneezing, Hank takes the cigarettes.
He slaps some coins on the table.
HANK
This cover it?
ANDREW
Yes, thank you.
Hank leaves. Andrew takes a journal from his bag and brings it
to Mike.
(CONTINUED)
24.
CONTINUED: 21
ANDREW
Forgive my temerity, but I thought
you might like to read this.
Baron Von Liebig is a chemist, and
after analyzing the composition of
human milk, he devised a
preparation that can be fed to
infants.
MIKE
Andrew...
ANDREW
It's a mixture of wheat flour,
malt flour, cow's milk and
bicarbonate of potash to reduce
the acidity. At least, take a
look. In the interest of science?
As if to humor him, Mike takes the paper and stuffs it in her
bag.
EXT. FIELD - DAY FOUR 22
Andrew rides between Colleen and Becky, taking it slow.
COLLEEN
You're doin' so much better.
ANDREW
That's because I have you two
young ladies on either side.
COLLEEN
Pretty soon you'll be gallopin'
across the meadow.
BECKY
You gotta stay in Colorado Springs
'til you can do that.
ANDREW
I'd like to stay.
COLLEEN
Dr. Mike might not say it, but she
needs you here.
ANDREW
Don't worry, I won't leave until
I'm booted out.
(turns to Becky)
And Becky, what are your plans,
now that you've finished school?
(CONTINUED)
25.
CONTINUED: 22
BECKY
I ain't sure.
COLLEEN
(teasing)
She wants to get married.
BECKY
Colleen!
COLLEEN
Have lots of children.
ANDREW
I think that's admirable.
BECKY
You do?
Andrew nods. Becky's flattered and embarrassed.
COLLEEN
But you said... you like to see
women going to college.
ANDREW
I appreciate women who have talent
and ambition. Your mother, for
example. She's an outstanding
doctor and I've learned a great
deal from her. But... personally,
well...
Becky's getting uncomfortable. She shoots a look at Colleen,
and tries to change the subject.
BECKY
Let's ride over to that big tree.
COLLEEN
(to Andrew)
You were sayin'...
ANDREW
Maybe I'm a bit traditional in
this respect, but... when a man
comes home from his job, I think
he'd like to find his wife there
with a pleasant supper and the
children all around her.
ON COLLEEN, as she digests this.
BECKY
Come on, let's race.
(CONTINUED)
25A.
CONTINUED: (2) 22
ANDREW
I can't race -- !
But she's off, and Andrew follows. Leaving behind Colleen,
still thinking this through...
26.
EXT. CLINIC - DAY FOUR 23
Mike is setting Katie in the wagon, placing her in a basket.
ALICE comes up.
ALICE
Dr. Mike? My Pa's got somethin'
troublin' him...
The baby starts to cry. Mike rocks her in the basket.
MIKE
Shhh. We're going home now.
(to Alice)
Hello, Alice.
ALICE
He's got... I think it's a boil on
his back. It's real big and it
hurts him bad. But you know my
pa, he doesn't want to see a
doctor.
The baby lets out a cry. Mike puts the stuffed rabbit in the
basket with her.
MIKE
Here's your bunny.
ALICE
You think you could... stop by?
But Mike is distracted by the baby.
MIKE
Katie, we're going for a ride.
You love to ride in the wagon.
(to Alice)
A boil, you say? Can you get him
to put hot compresses on it?
ALICE
We been doin' that. It just gets
bigger.
Mike tries to rearrange things on the wagon floor, so Katie
will be more comfortable.
MIKE
Oh, dear. How 'm I going to do
this?
(to Alice)
Why don't you go over to the
boarding house and speak to Dr.
Cook?
ALICE
He's out ridin' with Colleen.
(CONTINUED)
27.
CONTINUED: 23
MIKE
All right, Katie. Here we go now.
She swings up into the seat, reaches in her bag for a bottle of
iodine and gives it to Alice.
MIKE
Use the hot towels and some
tincture of iodine. If he's still
uncomfortable in the morning, I'll
ride out to your place.
She pulls away, leaving Alice alone on the street.
INT. HOMESTEAD - NIGHT FOUR 24
Mike and Colleen are packing a wooden crate with items she's
taking to Denver: books, photographs, a few mementos. Mike
hands her a photograph of the family.
MIKE
Here's a photograph of the family.
COLLEEN
(studies it)
Katie's not in it.
MIKE
That's true. We'll have to get a
new one taken and send it to you.
As Colleen packs the photo, Mike takes down a book.
MIKE
Oh, and you'll want this. It's
the best medical reference I've
found.
COLLEEN
But don't you need it?
MIKE
I have others. I'd like you to
take this.
Colleen takes it but she seems uneasy. Lowers her head.
COLLEEN
Thanks.
(CONTINUED)
28.
CONTINUED: 24
MIKE
Is something the matter?
Colleen shrugs.
MIKE
Are you feeling a bit nervous?
(Colleen nods)
I understand. I felt the same
way. I kept wondering, am I
prepared well enough? Will I be
able to keep up?
COLLEEN
It's not that. I mean, I know
I'll have to work hard.
(beat)
What if I want to get married and
have a family?
MIKE
Well, of course you'll want that.
Most people do.
COLLEEN
But some men... might not like
their wife goin' off to a job.
MIKE
Sully's never objected.
COLLEEN
Sully's different.
MIKE
Colleen, a man who doesn't respect
your talent and your dreams
wouldn't be the right partner for
you.
(Colleen shrugs)
You've wanted to study medicine
for so long. You're not thinking
of giving it up?
COLLEEN
No. But I see how hard it is for
you.
MIKE
Yes, it's a challenge. But women
have always worked and raised
their families. Look at Grace,
with the cafe.
(MORE)
(CONTINUED)
29.
CONTINUED: (2) 24
MIKE (CONT'D)
Dorothy worked on the farm,
milking cows and breeding chickens
while she raised four children.
Now she has the paper.
COLLEEN
You think there's other men who'd
feel like Sully?
MIKE
I'm certain of it.
Mike takes her by the arms, and Mike's intensity suggests that
she's speaking to herself as well as to Colleen.
MIKE
You can be a doctor and a wife and
mother. You can help others and
raise your own family. You can do
it, and you mustn't let anyone
tell you that you can't.
Colleen nods, reassured, but we can see from Mike's face that
she's not convinced by her own words.
INT. MIKE AND SULLY'S BEDROOM - NIGHT FOUR 25
Sully places roses in a vase on the nightstand by the bed.
Then puts a gift box on Mike's pillow. Fluffs up the quilt.
Sits down in the chair, keeping his eyes on the door.
After a moment, Mike walks in, holding Katie.
MIKE
She had a good feeding. I think
she'll sleep.
Mike puts her in the crib. Then goes and sits on the bed,
notices the gift and picks it up.
MIKE
What's this?
(notices flowers)
And roses. What's the occasion?
SULLY
You've been so busy. Things have
been awful hectic. I haven't had
a chance to tell you, I love you.
She can't help but be touched.
MIKE
Oh, Sully.
(CONTINUED)
30.
CONTINUED: 25
SULLY
Open the box.
She unwraps the box.
MIKE
You didn't have to.
She takes out a vial of perfume.
MIKE
Thank you. I haven't thought
about perfume in a while.
Sully takes it and opens it. Puts a dab on her wrist.
SULLY
Have I told you how beautiful you
are?
MIKE
I'm afraid I don't feel very
beautiful.
SULLY
You are.
He kisses her finger tips, then her wrist.
MIKE
I don't know what it is... I
just... I'm so tired, and it's a
different sort of tired...
(starts to cry)
I'm sorry.
SULLY
(softly)
Hey. There's nothin' to be sorry
about. Come here.
He takes her in his arms and just holds her as they lie down
together, nestled like spoons.
MIKE
I love you so much. I'm sorry.
He puts his finger to her lips.
SULLY
Shhhh. Everything's gonna be all
right.
31.
EXT. CLINIC - DAY FIVE 26
Mike drives up to the clinic in the wagon with Katie and
Colleen. To their surprise, Alice is sitting on the bench
outside, crying.
MIKE
Alice, what is it?
Colleen goes to her friend and sits down beside her.
INT. CLINIC - DAY FIVE 27
Andrew is operating on ALICE'S FATHER, with Dorothy beside him.
Andrew's just finished removing a large carbuncle from the
father's back as Mike rushes in with the baby.
MIKE
Why didn't you send for me?
ANDREW
There wasn't time. I saw a man
die very rapidly from a carbuncle
once it turned gangrenous.
MIKE
Carbuncle! I thought it was a
boil.
DOROTHY
(to Mike)
Thank goodness you're here. This
is not my line of work. Let me
take the baby.
Dorothy takes the baby as Mike quickly scrubs her hands and
goes to the table. Dorothy walks outside with Katie.
ANDREW
I think I was able to extirpate
all the affected tissue.
MIKE
(shocked)
I had no idea it was so large.
ANDREW
It's a good thing Alice brought
him here. A few more hours and
we'd have lost him for sure.
Mike is devastated.
ANDREW
(turns to Mike)
Would you... like to close?
(CONTINUED)
32.
CONTINUED: 27
He catches her eye and it's an uncomfortable moment. They both
realize -- their roles have been reversed. Mike takes the
needle and forces herself to begin stitching.
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT TWO
33.
ACT THREE
FADE IN:
EXT. CLINIC - DAY FIVE 28
Colleen, holding the baby, and Alice sit on the bench outside.
Door opens and Andrew comes out, followed by Mike.
ANDREW
I believe he's going to be all
right.
Alice lets out a cry of relief.
ANDREW
He's woken up, and his fever's
down. That's a very good sign.
ALICE
Can I see him?
ANDREW
I'll take you up.
He escorts Alice into the clinic. Mike sinks down on the
bench, sick with remorse. Colleen looks at her a moment.
COLLEEN
You didn't know.
MIKE
I wasn't paying attention.
COLLEEN
Alice didn't know herself.
MIKE
Katie was tired. I didn't want to
subject her to a long ride... So
I let that color my judgment.
COLLEEN
Ma...
MIKE
If Andrew hadn't been here...
COLLEEN
But he was. You always tell me:
do your best, that's all you can
do.
Mike lets out a sigh. Becky walks up.
(CONTINUED)
34.
CONTINUED: 28
BECKY
Hey, Colleen. Dr. Mike.
COLLEEN
Hey, Becky.
But Mike says nothing, lost in her thoughts.
BECKY
I can take her now.
COLLEEN
Thanks, but... I'll go later.
MIKE
(looking up)
Go where?
COLLEEN
I was gonna have a fittin'... the
dresses. Becky was gonna watch
Katie. But I don't have to.
MIKE
No, please. Go along. I want you
to.
BECKY
I'll take good care of her.
(takes Katie)
I love babies.
Colleen hesitates, gives Mike a concerned look. Mike nods for
her to go, and she heads for the store.
INT. HOMESTEAD - NIGHT FIVE 29
Mike is poring over medical books and journals. Everyone else
has gone to sleep. After a beat, Sully comes down the stairs
and walks to her.
SULLY
It's late. Why don't ya come to
sleep?
MIKE
It's so comforting when all the
research and statistics lead to a
clear conclusion.
(beat)
Which is not the case here.
She picks up a book by William Buchan (pronounced Buck'n) --
the Dr. Spock of his day -- and reads from it.
(CONTINUED)
35.
CONTINUED: 29
MIKE
Dr. Buchan says, "Every mother
ought to nurse her child if she's
fit to do so... It is a noble and
holy office, to which she is
appointed by God."
SULLY
Sounds pretty clear.
MIKE
(picks up journal)
But Dr. Cutler says that cow's
milk mixed with water and sugar is
an acceptable substitute.
(picks up other
journal)
But Baron Von Liebig disagrees.
He says cow's milk is too acidic,
that's why he adds potash to his
formula.
Sully takes the papers from her and sets them on the table.
SULLY
What's your instinct tell ya?
MIKE
I know in my heart what's best for
Katie. I'm only considering
infant food because it would be
convenient for me.
SULLY
That's gotta count for somethin',
doesn't it? What's good for the
mother?
MIKE
(considers)
Well, they do say that emotion and
strain can affect your milk. If
you're weak and tired, your milk
won't contain the nourishment your
baby needs.
(beat)
I'm certainly tired.
SULLY
Why does it have to be one or the
other? You can stick to nursin',
and once in a while, when there's
an emergency, we'll try the food.
MIKE
Sounds so simple.
(CONTINUED)
36.
CONTINUED: (2) 29
SULLY
What's wrong with that?
MIKE
(smiles)
Why didn't I think of it?
He takes her hand and pulls her to her feet.
SULLY
Come on.
INT. SULLY AND MIKE'S BEDROOM - NIGHT FIVE 30
Mike is lying on her stomach. Sully has his shirt off and is
rubbing her back, running his hands over her gown, but Mike
still has her mind on infant food.
MIKE
Loren just got his order of
Liebig's food.
SULLY
Mmm.
MIKE
I should probably try it before we
need it. See how she reacts.
SULLY
How's that feel?
MIKE
Good. Or perhaps I should wait
and send for Nestle food...
She squirms a little and laughs.
MIKE
That tickles.
He lets his hands rest on her back. Then starts to move them
carefully. He rubs her shoulders, working out the knots. She
starts to let go of the tension she's holding, and makes sounds
of relaxation and relief.
MIKE
There. Right there. Yes.
The massage becomes more sensual.
MIKE
That feels wonderful.
He leans down and kisses her back. She sighs with pleasure.
(CONTINUED)
37.
CONTINUED: 30
MIKE
Sully...
He's got her now, and he smiles.
And at this magic moment, we HEAR the baby CRY. Sully's hands
stop in mid-flight. Mike freezes. The crying continues. Mike
sits up, pulls her gown or robe around her and goes out of
frame to the baby.
HOLD ON SULLY -- frustrated, resigned.
INT. GENERAL STORE - DAY SIX 31
Becky watches Colleen try on her new coat. Emma places a
beautiful hat on her head. Colleen looks elegant. Becky is
awed. Colleen studies herself in a mirror, poses and makes
faces. Then she stands up straight and proper, and extends her
arm, as if at a formal reception.
COLLEEN
How do you do. I'm Colleen
Cooper.
Emma brings out a pair of gloves.
EMMA
Try these.
Colleen continues her play-acting as Emma helps her slip on the
gloves.
COLLEEN
Pleased to meet you. I'm
preparing to study medicine. Yes,
I know that's unusual.
She and Becky crack up.
BECKY
You're gonna knock their eyes out.
Colleen flings off the hat and coat.
COLLEEN
Thanks, Emma. I just love
everything!
She takes Becky's arm and they start out of the store.
38.
EXT. STORE - DAY SIX 31A
BECKY
Wish I was goin' with ya.
Colleen stops and faces her. She's tentative at first and then
more and more excited.
COLLEEN
Why don't you come? You could
apply for a scholarship next term?
Becky shakes her head 'no.'
COLLEEN
Why not?
BECKY
I don't have the grades you do.
COLLEEN
That won't matter, if you do well
on the exams. We could live in
the same boarding house. Have
rooms right next to each other.
BECKY
I don't think so.
COLLEEN
Come on, Becky. It'd be so much
fun.
BECKY
I kinda feel like stayin' here.
(beat)
I'm gonna miss you.
COLLEEN
(disappointed)
Well, you've gotta come visit me
then. And I'll be coming home a
lot.
BECKY
I bet ya won't. You're gonna make
new friends and learn all kinds of
things and you won't be interested
in folks back here.
COLLEEN
That's not true. You'll always be
my best friend.
BECKY
Think so?
(CONTINUED)
39.
CONTINUED: 31A
COLLEEN
You gotta promise -- you'll always
be my friend and I'll always be
yours. No matter what.
BECKY
(after a beat)
Promise.
They hug each other. But despite the intensity of the hug,
they can feel time's winged chariot hurrying near, about to
carry them in different directions.
INT. HOMESTEAD - DAY SIX 32
Mike is crouched beside Katie in the cradle. Door opens.
Sully comes in and Mike jumps to her feet.
MIKE
Sully, I'm so glad you're here.
SULLY
What's wrong?
MIKE
It's Katie. I tried giving her
some infant food. Just a small
amount, but it disagreed with her.
She spit it up and started crying.
I just got her to sleep.
SULLY
She gonna be all right?
MIKE
Yes, I think so.
SULLY
(relieved)
Maybe we can try a different kind.
MIKE
I can't do it Sully.
SULLY
All right, we'll forget the infant
food. Come sit down.
He tries to lead her to the couch.
MIKE
I went into this blind. Willfully
blind.
(MORE)
(CONTINUED)
40.
CONTINUED: 32
MIKE (CONT'D)
I didn't want to think about what
would happen when a patient sent
for me at night and I had to feed
the baby. I just went ahead with
blind faith that things would work
out. But Katie's suffering. My
patients are suffering. I almost
cost a man his life.
(beat)
And you...
SULLY
Don't worry 'bout me.
MIKE
But I can't be the wife I want to
be.
SULLY
Michaela, we haven't had that much
time yet. We're just gettin' used
to things.
MIKE
I'm not sure I want to tear myself
in so many pieces. Run up and
down the stairs between my
patients and my baby.
SULLY
We'll figure this out.
MIKE
I don't want to leave Katie. Look
at Colleen. It seems as if, just
yesterday, I was quizzing her for
the spelling bee. I took a breath
and now she's going off to
college.
SULLY
What're you sayin'?
MIKE
I'm saying...
(beat)
I'm thinking of turning my
practice over to Andrew.
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT THREE
41.
ACT FOUR
FADE IN:
INT. CLINIC - DAY SEVEN 33
Mike is putting on her apron. Andrew is measuring medicine
from jars into bindles.
ANDREW
No Katie today?
MIKE
She's at home. There's
something... I want to discuss
with you.
ANDREW
I'm sorry, I forgot to tell you.
Mrs. Darcy stopped by with Meg.
She's completely well.
MIKE
I'm thinking of making a change...
ANDREW
Yes?
MIKE
I won't be coming in... as often.
A few hours in the morning. Could
you be available at other times?
ANDREW
Of course. Is that just this
week? Or...
MIKE
This week, yes, and then...
Door opens and Hank comes in. He's having a hay fever attack.
One of his eyes is swollen shut, and he's sneezing.
HANK
Hey, Doc! Look at this!
Andrew and Mike walk toward him.
HANK
My eye's swollen shut. My nose is
runnin' like a river and I can't
stop sneezin'.
(CONTINUED)
42.
CONTINUED: 33
ANDREW
Did you take the belladonna I gave
you yesterday?
HANK
Yeah! And I kept usin' them
leaves like you told me, just in
case they decided to work. But
they didn't. I'm worse!
ANDREW
We could try strychnine, but we'd
have to be cautious...
MIKE
I have something that will help
you.
She goes to the cupboard and takes out a package of dried
herbs. Opens it and puts some in a packet.
HANK
What's that?
MIKE
Stinging nettles. You brew them
in a tea and drink it every few
hours. You'll get immediate
relief.
ANDREW
Stinging nettles?
MIKE
It's something I learned from the
Cheyenne.
ANDREW
(surprised)
You're using an Indian remedy?
MIKE
I use what's effective. I was
skeptical when I first came here,
but I've tried many of the herbs
on myself and my family and
they've worked.
HANK
I'll take anything.
(grabs packet)
If it helps me breathe.
He leaves. Mike and Andrew exchange a look.
43.
OMITTED (34-36) 36
EXT. HOMESTEAD - DAY EIGHT 37
Mike is playing with the baby, holding her up in the air and
cooing to her. She's enjoying the luxury of being with the
baby when nothing else is pressing her.
She starts walking toward the corral, picks a flower and shows
it to Katie. She walks a few more paces, stops and stares down
the road that leads to town. Looks wistful.
She turns around to walk back to the house. After a few steps,
she hears something and turns around.
+ANGLE 37A
Hank rides up and dismounts. Mike goes to greet him. Hank
looks better -- his eye's back to normal.
HANK
Hey Michaela --
(to Katie)
Hiya cutie.
MIKE
Well, you're feeling better.
HANK
Them Indian nettles worked. After
two days, I can breathe again.
He takes an exaggerated deep breath, enjoying the simple
pleasure of taking air into his lungs.
MIKE
That's wonderful. Did you come
all the way out here to tell me
that?
HANK
(makes excuse)
I, uh, had to ride out this
direction...
(beat)
I couldn't even ride before,
without collapsin'. Breathin's
one of those things you don't
never think about -- 'til ya can't
do it. I... 'preciate...
MIKE
I'm glad I was able to help you.
(CONTINUED)
43A.
CONTINUED: 37A
HANK
You're the only one who could.
There's an awkward beat.
MIKE
Well, thank you, Hank.
(CONTINUED)
44.
CONTINUED: (2) 37A
HANK
Heard you're not gonna be comin'
to work so much.
MIKE
Yes, that's true.
HANK
(indicates baby)
I was thinkin', if you wanted to
bring her with ya to the clinic, I
could have my girls look after
her, when things are slow.
MIKE
(touched)
That's very kind. I'll keep it in
mind.
He nods and gets on his horse to leave.
HANK
Folks in town are gonna miss ya.
He looks at her, then waves and rides away.
CLOSE ON MIKE, as she watches him, reflecting on what he's
said.
INT. COLLEEN'S ROOM - DAY EIGHT 38
Mike and Colleen are packing her suitcase with clothes. Mike
holds up a dress, but Colleen's daydreaming, staring out the
window.
MIKE
Does this fit you? It looks a
little small.
(beat)
Colleen?
COLLEEN
(starts)
Hmm?
MIKE
Do you want to take this dress?
(CONTINUED)
45.
CONTINUED: 38
[COLLEEN
Oh... sure.
MIKE
Is everything all right?
COLLEEN]
I had a stomach ache again last
night. Couldn't sleep.
MIKE
Could it be something you're
eating?
COLLEEN
(shakes head no)
My stomach seems to hurt more...
the closer it gets to Friday.
MIKE
(sympathetic)
Mmmm.
COLLEEN
How can I leave, when everything I
love is here? If I go, it's gonna
change my whole life. I got the
feeling I'll never be sitting here
again, on this bed.
MIKE
I know what you mean.
COLLEEN
I want to go so badly, but...
She shakes her head, can't get the words out.
MIKE
You're frightened?
Colleen nods, fighting to hold back the tears.
MIKE
That's because you're stepping
into the unknown.
(CONTINUED)
45A.
CONTINUED: (2) 38
Mike takes the silver hair brush from the dresser and starts to
brush Colleen's hair.
MIKE
But the unknown can also be a
great adventure. If you follow
your heart, and trust...
(CONTINUED)
46.
CONTINUED: (3) 38
COLLEEN
But nothing's gonna be the same.
MIKE
You're right. Nothing is ever the
same, Colleen. Everything
changes. But change can be good.
COLLEEN
I remember... the first time you
did this.
MIKE
You do?
COLLEEN
I was telling you about a problem
I was having... and you picked up
the brush and...
(breaking)
I love you.
The tears come pouring out. Mike puts her arms around her.
MIKE
I love you too. Very much.
Both are crying now, holding each other. We sense it's a
catharsis for both of them.
INT. HOMESTEAD - NIGHT EIGHT 39
The family's at the table as Mike, with Katie in the sling,
brings out dessert -- an angel food cake. She sits down beside
Brian. Sully's across the table, with Colleen.
COLLEEN
What's this?
MIKE
Surprise.
BRIAN
Angel food! My favorite.
Mike cuts a slice and passes it to Brian.
MIKE
I made it this afternoon. Katie
watched me stir it.
BRIAN
You look happy, Ma.
(CONTINUED)
47.
CONTINUED: 39
MIKE
(considers)
I am happy. I feel like I've been
in a fog, or... under water. I
couldn't see a foot in front of
me, and now, it's... clearing.
SULLY
Lookin' after Katie agrees with
you?
MIKE
Yes. But so does practicing
medicine. I mean, it's as natural
to me as breathing. When I'm with
Katie, I find myself thinking
about my patients and how they're
doing. And when I'm at the
clinic, I find myself thinking
about Katie.
COLLEEN
So what're you gonna do?
MIKE
(looks at Sully)
Well, as you said, why does it
have to be one or the other? I've
been looking for an answer, a
solution. But there is no perfect
solution. I'll have to cobble
something together, a day at a
time.
(to everyone)
But if you'll help me...
SULLY
Course we'll help ya.
BRIAN
I'm proud you're a doctor, Ma.
SULLY
So 'm I.
Mike hugs Brian, catching Colleen's eyes across the table.
INT. CLINIC - RECOVERY ROOM/NURSERY - DAY NINE 40
Mike and Colleen come in, Colleen holding the baby.
MIKE
There's a new dictionary I've been
reading about...
(MORE)
(CONTINUED)
48.
CONTINUED: 40
MIKE (CONT'D)
(stops in tracks)
What's this?
+HER POV: 41
Dorothy and Becky are putting quilts and dolls about the room.
DOROTHY
This is a home for Katie and Dr.
Mike.
BECKY
Doesn't it look cheerful and cozy?
MIKE
(overcome)
It's lovely.
BECKY
(points)
This used to hang in my room, when
I was little.
MIKE
Thank you. We'll take good care
of it.
COLLEEN
What smells so good?
DOROTHY
(points to covered
pot)
Grace cooked you a turkey. If
you're careful -- oughta last a
few days.
COLLEEN
I feel like movin' in here myself.
DOROTHY
You've got bigger fish to fry.
Can we go over to the paper? I
want to do a story about you.
COLLEEN
Me?
DOROTHY
You're the first young lady from
Colorado Springs to go away to
college.
(CONTINUED)
49.
CONTINUED: 41
BECKY
Come here, Katie.
Becky takes the baby from Colleen, turns to Mike.
BECKY
Any sign of chicken pox?
MIKE
No. I think she'll be fine.
DOROTHY
This article about you is gonna be
such an inspiration, Colleen...
Dorothy leaves. Colleen hangs back, reluctant to leave.
BECKY
Now that school's out, I could
come in and help you with the baby
every day.
MIKE
That's a wonderful idea. I'd want
to pay you, of course.
BECKY
You don't have to...
MIKE
I insist.
COLLEEN
See ya in a while.
Colleen starts to leave, then she turns and looks back.
+HER POV 42
Becky and Mike are bent over the baby, as Mike shows Becky the
baby's favorite bunny.
+ON COLLEEN 43
She smiles, happy to see things under control, but there's a
fleeting recognition -- mildly disturbing -- that Becky's
stepping into her place.
DISSOLVE TO:
49A.
EXT. TRAIN STATION - DAY TEN 44
Mike (with Katie), Sully, Brian, Matthew and Emma, Andrew,
Becky, Dorothy, Loren, Hank and assorted townsfolk are seeing
Colleen off. Matthew is lifting Colleen's bags onto the train.
(CONTINUED)
50.
CONTINUED: 44
MATTHEW
Denver's a big place. It ain't
like it is here.
COLLEEN
I know that.
MATTHEW
There's a lot more folks passin'
through. You don't know 'em and
they don't know you.
COLLEEN
Matthew, please don't worry.
MATTHEW
If somethin' happens... if you
need anything -- you wire me.
I'll be there on the next train.
COLLEEN
Thanks.
(hugs him)
You're the best big brother...
They hold each other a moment, then Colleen moves down the line
of people gathered to say goodbye. She hugs Becky.
COLLEEN
Don't forget your promise.
BECKY
I won't. Don't you forget.
Colleen hugs her, then hesitates in front of Andrew. He
reaches out and shakes her hand.
ANDREW
Good luck.
Then she comes to Brian. He's looking down, fighting back his
emotions. She takes his chin gently in her hand, turns his
face to hers. There are tears in his eyes. She flings her
arms around him, hugs him tight. After a moment, they let each
other go. She looks at him and says softly:
COLLEEN
I'll be back soon.
(then)
I'm not leavin' you.
Brian nods, smiles. She hugs Brian and then comes to Sully,
who takes her arm.
(CONTINUED)
50A.
CONTINUED: (2) 44
SULLY
Have yourself a good time. And
whenever you feel like comin' home
to visit... We'll all be waitin'
for ya.
(CONTINUED)
51.
CONTINUED: (3) 44
COLLEEN
Thanks, Sully.
She comes to Mike, who hands her a velvet box.
MIKE
This is for you.
COLLEEN
What is it?
She opens the box. Takes out an elegant writing pen.
COLLEEN
It's beautiful!
MIKE
My father gave it to me when I
went away to school.
Colleen is touched. She knows how precious the momento is to
Mike.
MIKE
He would have been proud to see
his granddaughter starting
college.
COLLEEN
Thank you. Thank you for
everything.
She hugs Mike. WHISTLE BLOWS. Colleen steps onto the train
and turns to wave. People call to her. "Goodbye, Colleen."
MATTHEW
Don't work too hard!
MIKE
Remember to buy yourself some
boots!
Colleen nods, trying hard to keep up a brave front.
COLLEEN
(nearly chokes up)
Bye, everybody! Goodbye!
+COLLEEN'S POV: 45
The train starts moving and we see the crowd grow smaller and
smaller.
52.
+REVERSE ANGLE 46
The train, with Colleen, as it chugs out of town.
+ANGLE - THE FAMILY 47
Mike has been holding herself together, but she can't any
longer. Tears fall. Sully puts his arm around her. Then
Matthew and Brian join in the hug, enfolding Katie. The family
seems to draw together more tightly.
INT. SULLY AND MIKE'S BEDROOM - NIGHT TEN 48
Sully's sitting on the bed, pulling off his moccasins. Mike
comes up from behind and puts her arms around him. She kisses
his neck.
Sully turns and looks at her, asking with his eyes. She
answers by kissing him, wrapping her arms around him. They
sink back down onto the mattress, kissing gratefully.
And at this wonderful magic moment they've been awaiting for
more than three months, we HEAR the baby let out some peeps.
Sully freezes, but Mike keeps kissing him.
MIKE
She'll go back to sleep.
SULLY
She never has.
MIKE
I had a talk with her.
SULLY
You did?
MIKE
I told her, your mother and father
need a little time to rest, too.
SULLY
She understood that?
MIKE
Mmm hmm.
Sully and Mike laugh softly and sink into a delicious embrace.
He pulls the bedspread up over them until they're completely
covered.
FADE OUT.