Original subtitles

EARL HAMNER: This is Earl Hamner, creator of The Waltons.

This year, we bring you a different Christmas story.

World War II literally comes to Walton's Mountain

in the form of two English children

seeking safety from the London blitz.

It's a story of courage and faith and the victory

of the human spirit over the shattering impact of war.

After this Christmas, the world won't be the same.

I invite you to enjoy a remarkable special broadcast.

JOHN-BOY: I remember that Christmaswhen all the sounds

and events of the world spoke against the holiday.

London was being bombed,

the evil of Nazi rule was spreading across Europe,

and on Walton's Mountain

Indian summer held off the snows of winter.

It was a year two young English children

were to seek refuge on the mountain.

And it was a year when my mother's faith

was put to its severest test.

I do hope we have some snow by Christmas.

It's dry out there, Pa.

-Morning. -Morning.

Ben, you better change your shirt.

-And just get the shirt dirty? -In church?

Oh, I thought I'd stay home and help Daddy in the mill.

Well, think again.

This is the Lord's day, and he's getting his due.

Daddy's getting a lot of pressure

from the Defense Department.

Son, if you gotta get crosswise with somebody,

better the Defense Department than the Almighty.

Go change your shirt.

(SIGHS)

Erin, you look so pretty.

I didn't intend to.

It's no sin to look nice.

You'd look even prettier if you gave us a smile or two.

Oh, Grandpa, lately I don't feel like smiling.

I hope the Reverend preaches a short sermon.

Well, it's the first Sunday in December.

It's bound to be about Christmas.

"Dearly beloved,

"we are fast approaching that joyful and generous season."

I guess the Reverend will be joyful

if the congregation is generous.

John.

(GRANDPA CHUCKLING)

Mary Ellen, you going to church looking like that?

I thought I'd take care of the baby.

Maybe write a letter to Curt.

It'll do you good to get out. Your father will take care.

He's very fussy this morning.

So am I. We'll get along just fine.

Mama, I'm feeling kind of low.

No matter what kind of troubles you got or think you got,

the answer is in prayer.

So, in these troubled and uncertain times,

let's all look into our own hearts

and try to rekindle the childlike virtues of faith,

hope and love that will comfort and sustain us.

And what a better time to start than now?

When we are once again approaching

the greatest ceremony of innocence,

what we call Christmas.

So, let us pledge ourselves to become as little children,

secure in the love of our heavenly Father,

resting in His mercy.

Leaning on His everlasting arms.

(PLAYING ORGAN)

(SINGING) * What a fellowship *

* What a joy divine *

* Leaning on the everlasting arms *

* What a blessedness *

* What a peace is mine *

* Leaning on the everlasting arms *

See you all at home!

(FORCING DOOR)

Just a moment, the door is locked.

Sorry, Corabeth, we thought you were open.

We saw the Baldwins' car.

Always, always open to you, Olivia.

Mr. Godsey forgot to release this.

Oh, is that something new?

Oh, yes, the very latest thing in burglar-proof locks.

The Sheriff warned us that there have been

an alarming number of burglaries recently.

And Mrs. Brimmer felt that a strange man followed her home

from the Ladies' Aid meeting the other evening.

What is happening to us?

You'd expect something like that in Richmond or Charlottesville,

but not here on Walton's Mountain.

Well, what can I do for you?

We need some things for Christmas cookies.

Oh, Olivia, how nice to see you.

-Hello, Olivia. -Miss Mamie, Miss Emily.

Sister and I were planning to visit after we finish here.

Well, I hope you'll still come along.

Well, we won't need to intrude.

We simply wanted to enlist your support, your family's support.

We'll do anything we can.

Oh, Cousin Hilary.

You remember our dear cousin Hilary

who sought refuge with us a year or so ago?

Of course.

Well, Hilary has written, asking us

to give shelter to two English children

who have been orphaned by the blitz.

Imagine, Sister and me with two little children in the house.

They're to be brought from Washington on Wednesday.

MISS EMILY: So, we're trying to get everything ready.

Are they boys or girls?

One of each, a brother and a sister.

Oh, Olivia, we feel so inadequate.

What do we know about children?

Well, of course, we were children once.

We'll do anything we can to help.

We were thinking, the first hour or two may be the most awkward.

If some of you could reinforce us?

Wednesday. We'll be there.

-Oh. -Thank you.

That's nice of you, Olivia. Thank you.

Now, we'd better get our packages, Sister.

What was it you wanted now, Olivia?

-Powdered sugar. -And cinnamon.

-How you doing, Deputy? -Fine, Chief.

-Having that drill tonight? -You bet.

I got a whole bunch of pamphlets here from the War Department,

and I think you'd better read 'em. Look at this one here.

Sure has small type.

Ladies, you know I'm the chief air raid warden,

and Ben here, he's my first deputy.

Oh, Mr. Godsey, do you really think

the time will come when we'll be raided?

Well, I certainly hope not.

But if it does happen, we're gonna be ready for it.

-Right, Deputy? -Right, Chief.

Seven.

And I thought two dollars apiece for the cake was a fair price.

It sounds more than fair to me, Verdie.

I have never tasted anything that beats

your burnt cinnamon fruitcake.

-Oh. -I wish I had some right now.

I guess I should've brought samples.

Verdie, you probably could get $3, even $3.50 if you wanted.

If I can sell ten or more at $2 apiece,

that will make a fine Christmas for the kids at our church.

You can count on us to buy a couple.

I'll take another and I'm not sure I'd share it with anyone.

You want us to pay now, Verdie?

Oh, no. No, you pay when I deliver the cakes.

I hope to have them ready four or five days before Christmas.

That'll leave me time to buy clothes and toys for the kids.

-If you need any help, ask. -Thanks.

-How's John-Boy doing up north? -He's doing just fine.

-Please tell him I asked. -Mmm-hmm.

My, it's dark out there tonight.

You want some company back home?

No, thank you. I'm not afraid of the dark.

Goodnight.

-JOHN: Goodnight, Verdie. -Goodnight, Verdie.

Erin, you're so quiet, I almost forgot you were here.

GRANDPA: Erin hasn't budged from that chair all weekend.

Thought you'd have a date tonight, honey.

Wasn't Paulie Carruthers mooning around?

I am not interested in Paulie Carruthers or anybody else.

We're just about to miss the overseas news broadcast.

OLIVIA: Couldn't we have one night in the week

where we don't have to be reminded of what's going?

Just because we don't tune in, doesn't mean it's not going on.

MAN ON RADIO: School children will be taken

to homes in safer districts,

where they will be housed by people who have

already offered to receive them and look after them.

All parents of school children are strongly urged

to let their children go.

Parents will be told where their children are

as soon as they reach their new homes.

Mothers and other persons in charge of children

below school age should take hand luggage

with the same equipment for themselves as their children.

As for school children, the names of the children

should be written on strong paper and sewn to the clothes.

No one can take more than a little hand luggage.

Those who can should take with them sufficient money

until they can get regular remittances from home.

MRS. RUMSEN: Now, isn't this a lovely home

you two have found for yourselves?

Oh, yes, ma'am. Just lovely.

Well, it's a long drive back to Washington.

If we can be of any further assistance,

don't hesitate to get in touch.

Oh, thank you, Mrs. Rumsen. We will.

But I know everything is going to turn out beautifully.

Children, let us hear from you, and God bless.

Oh, you've been most kind, ma'am.

Pip and me thanks you.

-So nice to have met you. -Oh, thank you, Mrs. Rumsen.

Pip. That's an interesting name.

Properly, he's Phillip. Pip's easier.

I hope you like candy. I baked these cookies myself.

Did you, ma'am?

May I take one for him, too?

Of course. Take as many as you like.

Now, we know how much you've been moved around,

but here you can just settle in and not worry about a thing.

Pip and me,

we manage.

MISS MAMIE: Would you like to see your rooms?

As you like, ma'am,

but we'll only be needing the one room.

Oh, we have two rooms, all ready for you.

Pip and me,

we stays together.

The rooms are side by side.

He don't stay by himself since he can't talk.

He can't talk?

Was he injured?

At the hospital, they said he could,

if he would.

But ever since the night the bombs came, hasn't said a word.

Not one word.

I doubt he ever will.

Mrs. Carruthers was saying,

Paulie just can't understand why you don't like him.

I have nothing against Paulie. I just don't feel like dating.

Erin, I know how much you miss G.W. We all miss him.

I don't want to talk about it, Mama.

Losing someone you care for is always hard.

Mama, please?

Alright. Alright.

(CAR APPROACHING)

(CAR DOOR CLOSING)

No complaint on the quality of the desks, Mr. Walton.

In fact, you may be making them too good.

The last war, the slogan was,

"Nothing's too good for our boys."

-We're not in the war. -Not yet.

And most of the materials issued the selectees

when they come into camp, are makeshift:

plywood rifles, cardboard boxes labeled "tanks."

JOHN: No reason to make imitation desks, though.

Alright, make 'em your way, but make them a little faster.

Olivia, this is Alan Timmons. This is my wife.

-OLIVIA: Morning. -Nice to meet you, Mrs. Walton.

-What do you your job you got? -Oh, I'm an expediter.

The word's fancier than my office or my salary.

(CHUCKLES)

Just what does an expediter do?

That means if I'm making 15 desks a week

for the Defense Department,

Alan here nudges me into making 17 or 18.

Or even 20.

Sounds like very demanding work.

Young man's worn to a frazzle. Can't you see that?

Wouldn't a nice cup of coffee

and a piece of fresh-baked marble cake lift your spirits?

Oh, that could just save me and the whole defense effort.

Just go on in the kitchen.

Oh, thank you.

My daughter's there. Her name is Erin.

Matchmaking again?

Just doing a little expediting of my own.

Erin. That's a pretty name.

It suits you.

You're a little young to be working for the government.

Oh, anyone older would be too smart to take this job.

Aren't you gonna eat your cake?

Oh, yeah.

I'm sure it's very good.

I guess you travel a lot.

I'm on the road most of the time, checking on our suppliers.

I see I'll have to stay much closer to the Walton project.

MISS MAMIE: Tess?

Pip?

Where are you children?

Tess?

Pip?

Children?

They're not upstairs, Sister.

Oh, dear.

Do you suppose they've run away?

Oh, I hope not.

They certainly haven't been happy here with us.

Tess?

Tess?

Yes, ma'am?

MISS MAMIE: Well, why didn't you answer me, dear?

Were you playing hide-and-go-seek with us?

Something like that.

Aren't you feeling well?

They do seem to be a little pale.

Is something wrong with your arm, Tess?

You're holding it so strangely.

No reason.

Why, Tess, what in the world?

I'm sorry, ma'am.

There were so many, and I thought you wouldn't mind

if I took a few, for him and me.

Oh, child.

Child.

You don't have to hide fruit and rolls.

They're yours.

As many as you like. Take them, all of them.

I'm sorry, ma'am.

I was only looking to the day we might be hungry again.

You won't be hungry again.

Can't you believe that?

Well, I can try, ma'am.

MISS MAMIE: Well, is there something you would like to do?

Do, ma'am?

We want you to be happy and have fun.

We could take a ride and stop in Charlottesville and get a soda.

Whatever you say, ma'am.

Pip and me, we'll do just what you want us to do.

What is it?

Lights in the barn.

What time is it?

About 3 a.m.

Be careful.

JIM-BOB: I can't believe this is happening to me, Allison.

I've been hoping for so long.

And best of all, it turns out to be somebody like you.

ALLISON ON RADIO: I'm as excited as you are, James Robert.

My scoffing brother will have to eat a very large slice

of humble pie after this.

Do you have a big family, Allison?

Well, there's just five of us.

There's Mother and Daddy, and my brother,

and Sister Ann, and there's me.

What's your situation?

Seven kids. I'm next to youngest.

I suppose you have a steady boyfriend?

Well, nothing too serious, you know.

I mean, most boys do expect a girl to think

of nothing but doing her hair, and primping just for them.

Daddy, I'm talking to London, England.

Now, isn't that something?

Hey, Allison, my Dad just walked in.

Greetings, Mr. Walton.

It's just fine, Son, but don't you think you could hold hands

across the sea at a decent hour?

It's 8 a.m. over there,

and this is the best time to pick up overseas signals.

James Robert, I shall have to say ta-ta for now.

The school bell's ringing, you know.

Talk to you tomorrow, Allison.

Dad, you wanna say a few words?

No.

Your voice is going all the way to England.

-Right? -Mmm-hmm.

Hello, Allison.

How nice to hear your voice, Mr. Walton.

May I carry a message to any of your friends over here?

I don't know anyone over there, Allison.

What you might do is, if you see Edward R. Murrow,

tell him to keep up the good work.

Fix bayonets!

Snap to it, there!

Lets go! The idea is to cut the enemy, not yourself!

What have we got here?

The most effective weapon ever invented for close-in fighting.

A 16-inch blade. The front edge, razor-sharp

for its entire length.

The back edge, starting five inches from the point.

Attached to your rifle, the bayonet keeps you

greater than arm's length from enemies.

It gives you added reach.

Once you perfect the technique, you'll be able to use

the rifle stock as a club. First, the grip. Try it!

No, Walton. Hang on to it.

Hang on to your weapon like that, you'll lose it.

You, higher! Give yourself maximum flexibility.

So, your commanding officer has ordered a bayonet charge.

You set yourself so.

You go!

(YELLING)

So, why all the yelling?

That's to scare the other man and give you a sense of power.

Three out of five men will run when they see

a bunch of screaming maniacs coming at them, cold steel.

So you yell your lungs out!

You pick your man! You lunge. You parry!

You drive in low, you twist and up and out.

Somebody try it.

(YELLING)

SERGEANT: Okay, that's not bad,

but too much over-hand. Remember, in low.

No bones. Then up, then out.

Okay, Walton.

What are you waiting for?

Stand there like that, it'll be his steel in your guts!

Stick him!

In, twist, up, out!

MISS EMILY: It's been one of the bitterest disappointments

of our lives, Olivia.

Nearly two weeks.

And we haven't been able to get close to those children at all.

They're as remote and frightened as the day they came to us.

When you think of what those two children have been through,

it's surprising they're able to function at all.

We tried to comfort and reassure them.

And we have failed, Sister.

It's a galling admission, but it's one we have to make

for the sake of the children.

These things take time. Don't be so hard on yourselves.

Well, we were wondering...

We were wondering if you would consider

letting the children come here.

MISS EMILY: Temporarily.

MISS MAMIE: If Tess and Pip could only learn to trust,

to believe...

If they could be with other children,

with a family for a while, then maybe we would be able

to take over again.

I hate to think of them being shuffled from pillar to post.

Couldn't you just try for a little longer?

Well, Christmas is so near.

If they could just share Christmas with your family.

Of course, we realize it's a tremendous favor we're asking.

But they'll be with your dear children.

Alright, we'll give it a try.

MISS EMILY: Oh, thank you.

My, my, real quiet around here. Just the way I like it,

so I can have my say without any interruption.

BEN: Your say is usually said.

You are usually the chief interrupter.

Pip, Tess, how about it, huh?

I suppose English children are a lot more polite

to their grandpa, eh?

I should think, sir, some are, some ain't.

You hear that? That young lady is gonna be a politician.

Pip.

Aren't you gonna eat your cornbread?

Thank you, ma'am. He ain't hungry tonight.

I've got this short-wave radio out in the barn.

I've been talking to this girl from London.

If there's anybody you'd like to say hello to...

Um, there's no one. Thank you.

-May I be excused, please? -JOHN: What's the hurry?

I have to go to a Civil Defense meeting at Ike's.

Yes, you air-raiding wardens better get busy.

The Luftwaffe will bomb Tess' back pasture.

(CHUCKLES)

BEN: Yeah, go ahead and laugh.

Everyone laughed at Winston Churchill at first.

Mary Ellen, where are you tonight?

JIM-BOB: Camp Lee.

I wish I were.

Jason, what's the matter with you?

You haven't said two words this evening.

There's nothing to say.

(SIGHING) It isn't always like this. Usually we have some fun.

Pip and me's fine.

Just fine.

There, now. Don't you worry.

Tess is just across the hall. I'm not far away.

You'll have lots of company.

Jason, Jim-Bob and Ben.

Goodnight.

This used to be Mary Ellen's bed, before she got married.

Goodnight.

Tess.

Now, don't you worry about Pip.

He's perfectly alright. He's probably sound asleep by now.

I'll see you in the morning.

Goodnight, ma'am.

Goodnight, Tess.

-Goodnight, Elizabeth. -Goodnight, Mom.

If you want, you can have one of my dolls for company.

No, thank you.

Mary Ellen, let's talk about this.

There's nothing to say, Mama.

We know how you miss Curt,

but running off to a strange place with a little baby...

It's a mistake.

You're gonna end up in some shabby rooming house

at the edge of the base.

I don't care about any of that.

Honey, be sensible.

I'm too lonely to be sensible.

I miss Curt so much, I can't eat or sleep.

I need him.

Just look at John Curtis.

He's changing every day.

Curt's missing all the fun of watching him grow up.

JOHN: He's due for a leave soon, isn't he?

I don't want a few hours, so I end up lonelier than before.

I want to be with him.

What about Christmas?

We'll spend Christmas with Curt.

Nothing you can say is going to make me change my mind.

The baby and I will be alright.

And it'll be easier for you, too.

You can let Tess and Pip use this room.

Oh, don't look like that, Mama.

If you were in my place, wouldn't you do the same thing?

(ALARM SOUNDING)

Alright, men. Now, you all got your assignments.

If there's any violations to the blackout,

you just give the violator a warning.

This being the first drill, Chief, some may have forgotten.

Well, be courteous but be firm.

After all, you know, you got to remind everybody

that the safety of the community depends upon their cooperating.

Okay, now we meet back here in 30 minutes.

Okay, let's go.

Ike?

Ike?

Evening, Thelma.

Well, hi there, Ben. Come on in here, baby.

-Thank you. -Oh, so nice of you to drop by.

Well, you know we're having this blackout test.

Yes, I know. How's it coming around?

It's going pretty good,

except you have a light in your far-west upstairs window.

Oh, that's Mama's room.

Would you please tell her to turn it off for some time?

Oh, I've told her. Don't think I haven't.

It won't do any good to tell her again. You know what she said?

She said, "I've had a light in my window every Christmas."

She has a little wreath every year

and she said, "I'm not gonna change now.

"Not to suit you, or Mr. Godsey, or that man in the White House."

She's not too crazy about Mr. Roosevelt.

I don't think she likes many of his cabinet, either. She's...

We're supposed to give you a warning tonight,

but if it happens next week during the second blackout,

I'm gonna have to cite you.

Oh, that's alright, you do what you have to.

You look so cute in that little hat.

Now, maybe by next week, her bulb will have burned out.

(CHUCKLING)

Why don't you come in and have another cup of tea?

I'd better not.

Oh, you sure you have to run right out?

Yes.

Sure is dark out there.

(CHUCKLING) Well, that's what you wanted. Goodnight.

Goodnight.

TESS: Four eights is 32. Put down the two, carry the three.

Four fives is 20. Twenty-three, and carry the two.

Four sixes is 24.

Twenty-six.

And the answer is 2,632.

You're very good at arithmetic, Tess.

How you doing, Pip?

That's very nice.

I thought you were gonna write me some words.

He won't write, ma'am, and he won't talk.

It's just no good.

Alright, Pip.

Why don't you take your crayons and draw a picture?

You can draw anything you like.

Would you hand me my sewing, Tess?

Yes, ma'am.

Maybe after the holidays, you'll feel like

going to school with the others.

Oh, couldn't we keep on as we are?

We'll see how you feel after the holidays.

I like that color, Pip.

Jason.

Jason, wait.

I've been trying to find some way to reach Pip

to get him to open up his feelings.

He won't speak, so I thought

maybe if we could get him to sing.

If you could play something for him,

some children's song, like

Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star.

-I'd rather not, Mama. -Why?

I'm not playing anymore.

You're not playing your music?

Music doesn't seem to fit in with what's happening around,

what's happening to me.

What is happening to you?

I'm trying to toughen up,

so I can do the job I'm being trained for.

Well, if that means giving up your music,

you'd better do something else.

I don't think I have any choice, Mama.

I don't think any of us has.

This is it.

It's so dark.

It's $12.50 a week. Two weeks in advance.

$25?

Take it or leave it.

You don't want it,

I'll rent it to somebody else before supper time.

Girls like you, they come bussing in from all over,

just to be near camp.

What if I agree to take it for a month? Six months?

The price don't change.

You think you can find something better or cheaper in this town,

start looking.

Alright, I'll take it.

You share the bath down the hall.

And I mean share.

And no radios after midnight, and no cooking at any time.

Well, I'll have to warm the baby's bottle.

Oh, of course you will, darling, and you can use my kitchen.

$2.50 a week extra.

Is there a telephone?

Oh, a pay phone, foot of the stairs.

And no laundry in the bathroom.

And no smoking in bed.

(BABY CRYING)

(SHUSHING)

ALLISON ON RADIO: Greetings from London, James Robert.

How are things with you?

Pretty good, Allison.

Thanks for taking this call when it's night time there.

The sirens haven't started yet.

If I should have to cut you off,

I'm sure you'll understand.

My little sister's with me.

Hey, Allison.

I'm happy to know you, I'm sure.

James Robert, what about the two little English kids?

They're here. I'll put Tess on.

Go ahead, Tess, speak in the microphone.

Come on.

Are you really in London?

Yes, love. Hampstead.

Just off Finchley Road, near the Heath.

Our place is... Was in Bethnal Green.

Poplar flats.

Just off Mile End Road on Layton.

Ah, a bad hit, was it?

Yes.

Your name is Tess?

Tess, that's right, and my brother's Pip, for Phillip.

And your family?

They wasn't found, after the bomb.

20 people from our flats, they wasn't found at all.

What were their names?

Harold Wrayburn was Daddy's name.

And Mom was Alice.

Tell you what, I'll ask around a bit

for your family and friends.

You needn't bother.

There ain't none left but Pip and me.

Just the two of us.

Oh, I missed you so much.

You know I missed you, too.

It feels like years since you held me.

(CHUCKLES)

And this little guy.

MARY ELLEN: He's not so little any more.

He doesn't even know who I am.

Give him time.

You look tired.

I can't remember a time when I wasn't tired.

Well, from now on, I'm going to take care of you.

Mary Ellen, it's wonderful to hold you and to see John Curtis,

but this is no place for wives and babies.

Just look at this room.

Oh, I'll find something better.

There is nothing better.

I know I should've called first and talked to you, but...

Why didn't you?

Because I was afraid you'd tell me not to come.

We had an agreement.

Well, I can't keep it. I miss you too much.

And we need you.

(SIGHING) I'm so tired I don't even know my name.

You don't have a monopoly on tiredness, you know.

You know, I rode on a bus for 22 hours

with that baby in my lap just so I could be with you.

I love you. Doesn't that mean something?

Of course it does.

Well, then tell me so.

Tess?

Do you and Pip wanna come out and play?

No, thank you.

It's no fun to just sit inside. We'll play any game you want.

No, thank you.

Well, what are you doing?

Writing a letter.

-To Mary Ellen? -No.

"Dear Alan..."

Elizabeth, stop.

Well, why're you writing to him? You saw him just last night.

Are you in love?

That's my business.

Elizabeth, you better wipe that frown off your face,

or you'll have wrinkles before you're 16.

What's the matter with everyone around here?

People who ask that question usually mean,

"What is the matter with me?"

There's nothing the matter with me, it's everyone else.

I think I'm the only one in this whole house

who knows Christmas is coming.

Yes, there don't seem to be the usual hullabaloo around here.

People got a lot of things on their minds.

It'll be here and then it'll be gone, and no fun at all.

-Aw. -No snow, no Christmas.

Tell you what, Elizabeth,

let's you and I hike up the mountain

and pick out the Christmas tree that we'll use this year.

Can it be the one I like best?

I think you're entitled to pick the one you want.

And furthermore, let's take that Tess and Pip along with us, huh?

Do they have to come?

Elizabeth.

I'd be willing to bet that those two

never hiked out into the woods

and picked out a Christmas tree in their entire lives.

(CHUCKLING) Let's go.

Now, you keep a sharp lookout, you might even see a deer,

or maybe even an Indian or two.

Somewhere around here there's the perfect tree.

Yes, that looks like a nice clump right down there.

This is kind of a steep slope, I'll need some help from you.

You take my hand here, Pip, and Tess, you come over here.

Now, watch yourself going down.

If I fall, I'm gonna make smashed potatoes of all of you.

(CHUCKLING) Hold on, now.

Come on, there they are. That's a lovely clump right down there.

Yes, I've seen those trees there before.

They've grown up so quickly.

What type are they, Grandpa?

These are mostly pines. Aleppo.

That's a pretty tree right there, isn't it, Elizabeth?

-Yeah, but I like them bushier. -Mmm.

How about that one right down there? Where you going?

Elizabeth?

Tess, you come along and pick it out, too.

It's as much your tree as anyone's.

No, thank you.

You ruin everything.

GRANDPA: Elizabeth.

That's a hard way to talk to our company from overseas.

ELIZABETH: But it's true.

I'm sorry you've had such a bad time in London,

but it's no reason for everyone else to have a bad time, too.

Elizabeth, you just simmer down. Stop it. Stop it right now.

Tess and Pip, come on down here.

Come on. Lets rest a while, right here on the log.

Come along, now.

Elizabeth, I am amazed at you.

Sit down.

Now, Tess, I know that you don't want to make things

miserable for Elizabeth here.

I know that you don't want her to be unhappy.

Now, there are lots of ways to be happy in this world.

And one of the best ways

is to go out looking for a Christmas tree.

I remember one time, the whole family...

That's before you were born, Elizabeth.

We all went up on top of the mountains and picked out a tree,

almost pierced the clouds, up so high,

took all day to take it home, drug it down,

and there was no way,

just no way to get that tree into the house.

-What did you do? -We put it up in the barn.

You know, that year, all them dumb animals

had a real nice Christmas with us.

(CHUCKLES)

I remember another time, too, Elizabeth.

We drug a tree home, set it up in the parlor,

and started to decorate it,

and there in the branches was a little possum,

hanging by its tail, playing possum.

Well, he must have known there was something going on,

some kind of a celebration,

and he wanted to be there to participate.

(GRANDPA LAUGHING)

So, you can't tell.

Almost anything is likely to happen this year.

Well, I should like to see a possum.

You would? Well, maybe we will.

But for the next half hour, let's work extra hard

to try to enjoy ourselves.

Maybe even put a smile on, hmm?

-TESS: Okay. -Alright, let's go.

Come on, let's sing a carol. Jingle bells.

* Jingle bells, jingle bells *

* Jingle all the way *

* Oh, what fun it is to ride *

* On a one horse open sleigh *

* Jingle bells, jingle bells *

* Jingle all the way *

* Oh, what fun it is to ride *

* On a one horse open sleigh *

You think putting on a uniform makes you a soldier?

Let me tell you, what's on the outside doesn't matter.

It's how you think, how you feel that counts.

I never hope to see a sorrier bunch of chicken-hearted,

flabby-gutted mama's boys in my life.

You hold your weapon like it's a salad fork.

You run like you're gonna meet an old friend!

You got one thing to remember and one thing only!

That's kill him before he kills you!

What's the matter with you? Don't you like that thought?

I can see what you're saying is true, sir.

Alright!

Let me see you hit that dummy, yelling as you go!

Move!

(YELLING)

That's it, Walton, you got him!

Stick him again. That's it, don't stop.

Stick him again! Stick him again!

That's it, you got it. Stick him again, come on!

Get him again, that's it. Stick him again!

Atta boy, Walton, get him! That's it!

What's this? The Rockfish First National Bank?

-What are you doing home? -We got out early.

"Pin-striped suits, yours for the tall look.

"Add inches to your height." $25?

Do you think it will work?

Nope.

-ELIZABETH: Follow the leader. -Okay.

Come on, Pip.

ELIZABETH: Follow the leader.

Mama, can we go this way?

TESS: Elizabeth, why don't you follow me?

Come on.

(CHILDREN GIGGLING)

(AIRPLANE ENGINE ROARING)

Mama, look.

(PIP SOBBING)

(PIP SOBBING)

Tess, Pip, there's nothing to be afraid of.

It's alright.

TESS: Pip, it's alright. I'm here.

We're safe, don't worry. I'll help you, I'm here.

Pip, please don't cry.

Pip, please believe me. There's nothing to be afraid of.

That's just a mail plane

that flies over two or three times a week.

We know the pilot. He's our friend.

That's why he flew so low.

Come on, now, let's go on to the store.

IKE: We got four oranges.

IKE: Hi, Olivia.

-Hi, Verdie. -Hi.

How's it coming with your Christmas cakes?

Getting there. I needed some last minute supplies,

and Mr. Godsey has been kind enough

to give me a special discount.

Isn't that neighborly?

Well, it's all for a good cause.

And he's also arranging

for us to get toys at a wholesale price.

Those kids are gonna have a really merry Christmas.

How many cakes have you sold so far?

13. Lucky I'm not superstitious.

Ah, $26 will buy a whole lot of happiness.

Verdie, I'd like you to meet Tess Wrayburn

and her brother, Pip.

-Mrs. Foster. -Pleased to meet you.

Hello, I've heard a lot about you two.

Elizabeth, bring them to our Christmas party.

Bye.

-Bye-bye, Verdie. -IKE: Bye, Verdie.

Oh, Livie, I thought I heard you out here.

I've just put the kettle on. Would you like a cup of tea?

Sounds nice, Corabeth. Thank you.

Leave the children to get acquainted.

I'll be back in a few minutes, Ike.

Oh, Livie, I almost forgot. Got a letter here for you.

It's from New York, New York.

Thank you, Ike.

Aimee, I want you to show our little refugees your toys,

and then we'll have a special tea.

You know how partial the English are to tea.

Now, run along.

Olivia, can I take your coat?

Can I have a minute to read my letter?

Of course.

What kind of games do you like?

Pip and me, we aren't much on games.

We could play "Raising the Family".

ELIZABETH: I'll be the mother you can be the father.

"Store" is fun.

I'll run the store, and you can be my customers.

No, thank you.

We'll just watch.

There's always dominoes, or Rook, or Authors.

No, thank you.

It's no use. All they do is watch.

Not bad news, I hope.

John-Boy won't be home for Christmas.

Says it's already snowing in New York.

Oh, Livie, I hope you'll have time

to help us organize our Bundles for Britain.

It's just heartbreaking when you think

what those people have been through.

And as if that weren't bad enough,

this is the worst, coldest winter they've had in years.

I feel that every time we knit a sweater,

or a pair of mittens, or a scarf,

we're striking a blow against that horrible man, Hitler.

They talk about the faces of war.

Those are the faces of this war.

Those innocent little children, destroyed.

Thousands like them.

Millions.

I've always hated even the thought of war,

but I've never felt so close to it as now.

Seeing it in their eyes.

Liv, I know you're troubled but you can't make yourself sick.

If you would've been with us when that plane flew over.

If you'd seen those trembling little bodies,

the terror in those faces.

Oh, John, will they be free of it?

You can say.

How can lovin' God let this happen to innocent children?

Liv, it's men who fly the planes and drop the bombs.

Children, children can be spared.

C'mon, let's get some rest.

It's hard to have the Christmas spirit.

Peace and love, joy and hope.

When you look at those faces, those empty eyes..

Hi. Sorry I couldn't make it sooner.

Nobody to take over.

How long are you gonna be here for today?

Five minutes, ten?

Maybe a whole quarter of an hour?

It's lucky I got here at all.

Take a quick look, John Curtis. This is your father's face.

Usually you only see his back, as he walks out the door.

Hey, look, it's been a long, rough day.

Oh, and I've been having a simply wonderful time.

I'm lonelier here than I was at home.

Well, of course you are.

If you'd stopped to think for ten seconds

before you came rushing down here,

you'd have known how it was going to be.

It doesn't have to be if you'd just spend some time with us.

I'm trying the best I can.

Well, you walked out of our lives

and now you resent us trying to get back in.

I didn't walk out, I was called up.

I'm paying now for the benefits I enjoyed when I was in school.

I have an obligation.

What about your obligation to us?

I said that I was doing my best.

What does that mean? Spend few minutes with us

when you don't have something more interesting to do?

I can't think of anything more interesting to do

than quarrel with my wife.

I didn't come here to quarrel.

That's all we ever seem to do.

You seem so different,

so far away.

I'm trying my best

to act like a responsible human being,

and I strongly recommend that you give it a try.

Curt, please. I'm trying to be responsible.

I'm trying to be mature.

Help me.

Alright, it's just that I...

I get defensive when I see you, my wife and my son,

living in this dingy fire trap.

Well, it's not that bad, especially when you're here.

Let's talk about good things,

happy things, like Christmas.

Oh, yeah, listen.

I'm not going to able to be with you on Christmas.

-Not at all? -No.

We have to go to Washington on a special briefing,

and we'll probably be away for three or four days.

Well, take us with you.

I can't. There are no accommodations for family.

So you're just going off and leave us here on Christmas?

What else can I do?

You don't care.

You really don't care at all.

I cared enough to tell you to stay where you belong right now,

which is with your folks.

But oh, no, you have no respect for my judgment,

you have no consideration for my feelings.

So here you are like a spoiled brat,

demanding what you can't have, what I can't give you!

I'm sure we're keeping you

from something terribly important,

like reorganizing the Medical Corp, or saving the world.

Get out!

And you don't need to come back.

Ever.

Need some help?

Could always use some help, Son.

Better get out of that uniform first.

I've been thinking, maybe I never should have put it on.

You look good in it to me, Son.

It's like the Sergeant keeps saying,

it's not how good you look that makes a soldier.

You run crosswise with the Sergeant, have you?

I was doing alright till we got into bayonet drill.

-Mean business. -Scares me, Daddy.

When it's not a sack of straw, but another man,

I don't know if I'll be tough enough to...

To do what has to be done.

I recollect those thoughts, Son.

-You do? -Mmm-hmm.

I thought maybe it was just me.

The Army teaches you to be tough, be mean,

be a killer.

Well, Jason, you are not a killer.

You got some special feelings.

You've showed that in your music,

and lots of other ways, too.

It's those feelings that get in the way of me

doing what's expected of me.

It seems like I ought to be able to block them off.

A couple of weeks of drilling, Son,

isn't gonna turn a man completely around.

And I'm glad for that.

If I'm supposed to be a soldier, and can't fight like one...

Time comes to defend yourself or your friends, Son,

you'll do it.

Daddy,

-I don't know. -Well, I do.

I don't have any doubt about it.

In fact, it's your kind of man

I'd like to have in a fight with me,

because you do have feelings, the ones that bother you.

I don't understand.

You're not a machine, Jason.

You think, you care, you feel.

It's people like you who give all they got

to defend what they care about. True?

True.

And don't put a hammerlock on your feelings. Give them air.

Don't let anyone take away your music, Son,

or the things that make you what you are.

If we locked off everything that's decent and tender in us,

there wouldn't be anything worth fighting to save.

I thought you said something about giving me a hand.

I gotta go change my clothes.

I'll be back in a couple of minutes.

(ALARM BLARING)

Good evening, Miss Thelma.

Good evening. Miss Verdie, come right in.

Just delivering the burnt cinnamon cake you ordered.

Well, this is such a wonderful thing you're doing.

Everybody's been real helpful.

Well, they certainly should be for heaven's sakes now.

I wanna give you $2 for the cake,

but then I wanna give you a little something extra

just for the children.

Oh, thank you.

You know, it looks as though we'll have almost $30.

-Really? -I still have three cakes

to deliver to the Waltons.

How wonderful.

Listen, you don't want to go out yet,

why don't you wait until Mr. Godsey sounds that siren

or something to have that blackout over?

No, thank you. I'd better push on.

I'm sorry, Verdie, but thank you.

Thanks, again.

-And have a Merry Christmas. -The same to you.

-Goodnight. -Goodnight, dear.

(SCREAMING)

BEN: Verdie?

(VERDIE GROANING)

I'm alright. Be careful!

He got too much of a head start on me,

but I got a look at him.

He took my little purse.

Made off with all the Christmas money.

Verdie, I wish you'd let us take you to a doctor.

Lucky you had that kerchief on.

A blow on the head is a mean thing.

I'm fine.

What's hurt mostly is my feelings.

Just can't believe something like that happened around here.

He... He must've been following me,

waiting till I'd collected most of the money.

And after all the work you did, baking those cakes.

I guess it just wasn't meant to be.

I talked to Sheriff Bridges, and from the description,

he feels it's the same man

that took this lady's purse in Rockfish.

OLIVIA: They'd better catch him before he hurts somebody else.

Sheriff said he'd come by your house tomorrow for your story.

I guess I'd best be going. Oh, thank you.

Ben, thank you very much for everything.

Daddy, can I take Verdie home in the truck?

-Sure. -I'll see you all soon.

Now, Verdie, you be careful.

ERIN: Goodnight. JIM-BOB: Goodbye, Verdie.

-GRANDPA: Goodnight, Verdie. -Goodnight.

You alright, Liv?

Verdie's never done anything in her life but help people.

Tonight she's out doing Christian work,

and a thing like this has to happen.

It's a real shame. At least she wasn't hurt bad.

Alright, everybody, time for bed.

-GRANDPA: I'll turn in, too. -Goodnight.

-Goodnight, honey. -Goodnight, Daddy.

Tess, I'll be up in a little while to tuck you in.

You needn't bother, ma'am.

Goodnight, Pip.

BUCHANAN: In just three days, we will have Christmas,

a time, I think, for most of us,

when we feel a special closeness for our brothers and sisters,

a oneness with Our Heavenly Father.

We are comforted and sustained

when we hear the story of Christmas,

and are reminded that hope was born into the world

on that first Christmas Day,

and continues to live on

in the hearts of all of us who make room for it.

So, friends, let us bow our heads and pray

that the peace and joy of Christmas

lives on with us, not just for a single day,

but throughout the whole difficult

and uncertain year ahead.

Now, will you join me in the Lord's Prayer?

"Our Father, which art in Heaven, hallowed be thy name.

"Thy kingdom come,

"thy will be done on earth, as it is in heaven.

"Give us this day our daily bread,

"and forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.

"And lead us not into temptation,

"but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom,

"and the power, and the glory, forever.

"Amen."

Well, did the preacher fill you with the Christmas spirit?

GRANDPA: I don't know about Livie.

First time I ever seen her walk out of church

right in the middle of a sermon.

It was stuffy. I needed some air.

-You're alright now? -I'm fine.

Ben, the Sheriff came, wants you to call him.

They caught that fellow who took Verdie's purse.

Well, good for Ep. If he keeps up like that,

why, we'll lose him to the FBI or Gang Busters.

What about the money?

He spent it over at the Blue Ridge Tavern.

He got talking free and gave himself away.

They find Verdie's purse?

No, I guess he threw that away, too.

Wish we could find some way to help Verdie

give those kids a Christmas.

We'll sure do what we can.

We'd better start thinking about Christmas here.

JOHN: After dinner we'd go up to the mountain

and cut that tree Elizabeth picked out.

Can we find it again, Grandpa?

Why, sure. I could find that tree blindfolded.

But don't put me to the test.

-You sure you're alright? -I'm fine.

Last night, James Robert,

over 105 recorded.

The closer we come to Christmas, the more bombs they deliver.

Expecting the sirens would be sounding any moment.

Makes me feel bad thinkin' about you and the others

hiding in the underground.

Here I am, here we are, trimming the Christmas tree

and wrapping presents.

You know what, I don't say those things to make you feel guilty.

I know.

Actually, most everyone here is in wonderful spirits.

I think old Bah Humbug Scrooge himself would have rallied.

if he come through the blitz.

Last night during the rain, he sang carols.

"God Rest Ye Merry," gentlemen.

That one's my favorite. What's yours?

"Silent night," I guess.

Oh yeah, sleep in heavenly peace.

I've had no luck at all locating

any of the Wrayburn family or friends.

I talked to the neighbors in the woods, just no trace.

Thanks for tryin'.

There's one other possibility I want to check out.

Can I talk to you again before Christmas?

Why not? I've a holiday. There'd be no school.

-How about noon, your time? -Perfect.

-Well, cheerio, James Robert. -Goodbye, Allison. Be careful.

God Bless.

GRANDPA: Someday, I'm going to grow Christmas trees

with branches all on one side, so they fit into odd corners.

JOHN: Grow it with a stand? So they don't tip over.

GRANDPA: Live ones are the best.

It's really a pretty tree. Hope we have enough decorations.

You like it, Tess?

It's very nice. Very nice, indeed.

Hand me some.

I think we better start testing these lights.

Oh, that will take us till New Years, James Robert.

One thing you can always to be sure of is plenty of popcorn.

-Anything we grow on the place. -Where's the hooks?

ELIZABETH: There's the hooks.

That's nice.

I'm trying to write a Christmas carol.

It's good to hear you playing music again.

I was so wrong, Mama.

It's times like these when we really need music.

We need all the comfort we can get.

(PLAYING PIANO)

Good morning.

Ben. Would you like to come in?

Oh, I can't stay. My family's decorating the tree.

Oh, Harley's off getting ours.

I found your purse.

Where did you find it?

It was in the bushes right near where the man took it.

I'm glad to have it back and it was nice of you to...

My money...

But Sheriff said that no-good spent it all on liquor.

That sure looks like money to me.

Oh, praise be.

Well, what's the matter?

Well, the bills I had in here were mostly ones.

And here's a ten, a five and...

-Ben... -That's your purse, isn't it?

It is.

If I tell you that's your money, are you going to call me a liar?

Liar would not be the word I'd use.

Well, then it's settled.

I keep thinking of you as a boy,

a little boy.

Now I see you're a man, a big man.

And very special, Ben Walton.

Merry Christmas, Verdie.

Merry Christmas, Ben.

(KNOCKING)

Who is it?

(KNOCKING)

-Did you forget something? -Yes.

Can I come in?

Looks like I almost missed you.

Well, the bus leaves in 45 minutes.

Mary Ellen, I've been thinking.

If you've come to beg us to stay, forget it.

It's no use. You were right.

Do you have to say it like that?

Shh.

(WHISPERING) Do you have to say it like that?

Well, why not?

Makes me so mad that you were right, but you were.

Don't be mad at me. I didn't invent the US Medical Corps,

and I didn't start the war in Europe.

Well, I have to blame somebody.

And what's the use of having a husband if I can't blame him?

I want to be with you and the baby,

but this just isn't our time.

Well, it's not fair.

We have lots of company.

Is that supposed to make me feel better?

Maybe this will.

(CHUCKLING)

-What's that? -It's for Christmas.

It's a camera, so you can take lots of pictures of the baby,

and he can take lots of you.

MARY ELLEN: I don't think he's quite up to that.

Don't underestimate this boy. He's going to be another Edison.

Are you going to be alright?

You know me. I have to see things for myself.

I've seen what this is like. No good for anybody.

So I think I can go home and handle it.

Our time will come. I believe that.

I thought you were asleep.

No, ma'am.

When it's quiet like this, I do some thinking.

So do I.

Sometimes I lie there wondering about what's past

and worrying about what's ahead.

I don't worry.

That's good.

What's the use?

Him and me, we'll be looked after.

You just relax and put yourself in God's hands.

God I wouldn't know about, ma'am.

I look after Pip. Pip looks after me.

Try to get some sleep.

Goodnight.

Aren't you coming to bed?

I'd just keep you awake. I wanna read for a while.

Liv, what's wrong?

All my life, whenever I've had troubles,

when one of the children was sick, or I was worried for you,

one thing I could always count on

was being able to pray for help.

Now you can't?

This because of the English children?

English children, French children, Dutch children,

what's happened, what's happening,

what will go on happening.

I've always reached out to a power that was kind,

that cared.

Now, Liv, I'm not much...

I'm never one to talk about religion, but...

Maybe what you're doing is

asking God to

act the way you want him to,

so that you can understand him.

I don't think it works that way, Liv.

I can't pray, John.

The words don't mean anything.

I can't believe they're reaching anybody.

-Alan? -Oh, hi.

Why are you wearing that uniform?

I wanted to give you a thrill.

You're in the Army?

Well, sure I am, yeah.

But you've always worn civilian clothes when you came here.

The rules on the base are very relaxed.

Why? What difference does it make?

Erin, what's the matter with you?

I don't want to talk about it.

Well, I'm sorry, but I think we have to talk about it.

You're not just turning me off without an explanation.

What? You have against guys in uniform?

When you see me in the uniform, suddenly I'm the enemy. Why?

There was a boy, I told you.

The boy who was killed in training maneuvers.

Because of that, you're ruling out everybody in uniform?

It isn't just the uniform.

You're going to be a very lonely person the next few years.

Well, there are a lot of things worse than being lonely.

MISS MAMIE: We didn't want you to think, we'd forgotten you.

And we certainly didn't want you to forget us.

No, ma'am.

These are a few little things

that we hope will help make your Christmas merrier.

Tess, why don't you put them under the tree?

Yes, ma'am.

Oh, isn't that a beautiful tree?

MISS EMILY: Did you help decorate it?

No, ma'am, we didn't care to.

You two can go outside and play, if you like.

Go upstairs and get your things.

We'll say goodbye before we leave.

Yes, ma'am.

Being here hasn't helped.

They don't feel anything at all. They're numb.

I think after the holidays,

we ought to send them back to that center in Washington.

MISS MAMIE: Yes.

Maybe there's some course of treatment they might have.

Been a lot of children through this house.

I've never felt so totally shut out, helpless.

Olivia, you shouldn't blame yourself.

Oh, dear, no.

It was so good of you to come to our assistance.

It's doubly sad to see them like that at this time of year.

Al, when you're done roping that down,

meet me in the office to sign the papers? Thank you.

-Wanna know a secret? -If you like.

You're gonna be going to Washington DC

right after Christmas.

Well, how do you know we are?

I overheard Mama talking to the Baldwin ladies.

Think you're gonna like it?

It don't matter to us.

Washington DC now, is it?

Well, you and me, we don't need them fussing about us.

Sending us here and sending us there.

We don't really belong to anyone, except each other.

So, why shouldn't it be us decides when we go,

and where we go?

ALAN: See you next week. Keep up the good work.

BEN: Well, thank you.

-See you later. -Bye.

Come on, Jim-Bob.

or P-47 Thunderbolts?

Me, I'm mostly working with desks,

showerheads and pots and pans.

I guess they got all kinds of jobs in the Air Corps.

They sure do.

IKE: I like to feel that each job is as important as the next.

ALAN: That's what I keep telling myself.

IKE: You paying the $2 in cash, or do I bill the government?

ALAN: No, I'll pay you in cash.

-$2. Coming right up. -There you go.

You know, I'm the air raid warden chief here, locally.

That must be quite a challenge.

Sure is. Good luck.

Whatever possessed those two kids to go riding off

that way in an army truck?

It's my fault, Mama. I told them about

them going to Washington after Christmas.

Elizabeth, what on earth would make you do such a thing?

I don't know.

It's just, I thought they'd be happy to be leaving.

They're not happy here.

Liv, you and me will go get them.

Stop at Ike's on the way and telephone the base.

-Daddy, can I come with you? -Gonna be a long ride, honey.

I've gotta talk to Alan.

Alright, get your things and come on.

Hey kids, come here.

JOHN: You sure they didn't get off the truck

before it got to the base?

Well, the only place we stopped was Ike Godsey's.

They didn't get off there.

If they're here, we ought to be able to find them.

I'll alert the MPs.

Pip!

Pip, come on. Please, come on or we'll be killed!

Oh, Pip!

John!

Please!

Pip.

However did you get here?

We followed you.

-Why did you bother? -Because we care.

(PIP SOBBING)

It's alright, Pip.

It's alright. You're fine now.

It's alright.

Oh, ma'am. I was scared. I was proper scared.

So was I, Pip. Proper scared. But everybody's safe now.

You're alright.

Let's go home.

Mama, Daddy!

Everybody! It's Allison, from London!

Erin, it's snow... Oh, my God, everyone, come on!

Come on!

Oh, it's snowing! It's snowing, everybody!

GRANDPA: It's snowing, it's snowing.

Snowman's blowing.

Jason! Tess!

Do you all get snow like this in England?

It's perfect!

Let's take a look at what Jim-Bob is doing.

ALLISON ON RADIO: James Robert, am I coming through?

Loud and clear.

It's been a lovely Christmas morning here in London.

All my family's standing here with me.

They doubted me, when I said I've become fast friends

with people who live 3,000 miles away

in a place called Walton's Mountain.

So I felt Christmas would be the perfect time

to bring us all together.

Over.

JIM-BOB: My family's here with me, too.

Most of our family are here, too,

including our dog and an owl!

JIM-BOB: That's my Grandpa.

Well, hello, Grandpa. So nice to hear your voice.

(CHUCKLES)

James Robert, are Tess and little Pip there with you?

Yes, they're here.

Well, there's someone here who'd like to talk with them.

Tessie, love, little Pip.

A merry Christmas.

Mum?

It's our mum. Pip, do you hear that? It's our mum.

Oh, Mummy, where are you?

I've been in hospital all this while, dears,

but I'm doing fine now.

Mum,

is Daddy there, too?

Oh, no, my dears.

I'm afraid we lost Dad.

They told me I'd lost the two of you in the fire.

And I'm sure you thought the same had happened to me.

But I'm doing very well now. If everything goes alright,

they say I can come over there soon, and we'll all be together.

Did you hear that?

Oh, Mummy, come soon.

We'll be waiting for you.

Merry Christmas, loves.

Merry Christmas.

Merry Christmas, Mum.

JASON: (SINGING) * Oh, children, he is one of us *

* Untouched by hate or fear *

* Oh, children, we are one with him *

* This joyful time of year *

JASON: Everybody.

* Join hands *

* Join hearts *

* And sing his song of peace and men's good will *

* Shout out the birth of the Christmas child *

* That child is with us still *

* Join hands *

* Join hearts *

* And sing his song of peace and men's good will *

* Shout out the birth of the Christmas child *

* That child is with us still *

* Oh, children, wise men bid us doubt *

* Their wisdom is despair *

* Oh, children, hope is ours to know *

* When simple faith we share *

* Join hands *

* Join hearts *

* And sing his song of peace and men's good will *

* Shout out the birth of the Christmas child *

* That child is with us still *

* Join hands *

* Join hearts *

* And sing his song of peace and men's good will *

* Shout out the birth of the Christmas child *

* That child is with us still **

JOHN-BOY: It was the last Christmas before we were drawn

into the war in Europe. And we didn't know it then,

but it was the last Christmas ever

that we would all spend together.

-Grandpa? -Yes, Elizabeth?

You've seen a lot of Christmases.

Um, 70 odd.

Some odder than others.

ELIZABETH: Out of all those Christmases,

which do you like to think about best?

-None. -None?

The Christmas I like to think about, Miss Elizabeth,

isn't this year's, last year's or the one in ought-six,

it's next year's Christmas.

-Goodnight, Grandpa. -Goodnight, Elizabeth.