Original subtitles

Don't stay correcting papers too late.

Don't worry. I won't.

Good-bye, dear. Have a good day.Thank you. And you too.

[ No Audible Dialogue ]

Good morning, Mr. Mapes.Good morning, Miss Felicity.

I wired San Francisco about that yard goods you want for the Easter pageant.

Thank you, but you didn't have to go to so much trouble.

Well, it's no trouble at all for you.Well, thank you.

Good morning, Felicity.Good morning, Reverend Haggarty.

I wanted to ask you, could you possibly find time to head up the church membership drive?

I'd be delighted to.Splendid.

Would Wednesday at 8:00 be convenient for a meeting?I'll be there. Good morning.

Morning, Reverend.Morning, Joe.

If schoolteachers had been as nice as her in my day, I'd have been a lot smarter.

She's got the whole town eating out of her hand.

First time I ever saw a whole town fall in love at first sight.

[ Chattering, Shouting ]

Good morning, everybody!

[ Children Chattering ]Oh! You look so pretty!

[ All Chattering ]

All right, now, everyone. Time for school! Come on!

Come on.

[ Bell Clanging ]

Let's go, Richard. Tommy, come on.

Here we go. Come on in. Come on.

Hurry up.

[ Bell Clanging ]

[ Whistle Blowing ]

Hi, Danny.Well, hi. Welcome home. What'll it be?

I know. The usual.Yeah.

This is Saturday night, isn't it?

Well, that's what it says on the calendar. Have a good trip?

I did till I got home. Steve was supposed to meet me at the station.

Where are all the Shiloh hands anyway?

If I told you, you wouldn't believe me.Try me.

Well, if you really want to know, they're all at a dancing class.

Oh, come on, Danny. I'm serious.

With business like this, you think I'd be making jokes?

If you don't believe me, go see for yourself.I will! Where's it at?

At the schoolhouse.

Wait a minute. Better chew these cloves on the way.

They won't allow you in the dancing class with liquor on your breath.

Oh, boy.

♪♪ [ Violin, Piano: Waltz ] [ Woman ] One, two, three. One, two, three.

Now back. One, two, three. One-- No, no.

Now, one, two, three.

Step together, step. Step together, step.Step. Step.

Step together, step.

One, two, three. One, two, three.Step.

[ Steve ] O-One, two, three. Step.

One, two, three. One, two, three. [ Chuckles ]

♪♪ [ Continues ]

Why did you stop? You were doing so well.

Excuse me a minute.

Helo, boss. Have a good trip?

Could've been better if somebody had met me with a rig at the station...

like I asked in my telegram.

Oh, well, I'm sorry about that. I forgot it was tonight you were coming in.

That's all right.

I wouldn't want a little thing like that to interfere with your dancing class.

I'm sorry, but the class is full.

Oh, uh, well, I don't think he came here to dance anyway.

This is my boss.

This is our new schoolteacher, Miss Felicity Andrews.How do you do?

Students are a little older than they were in my day.

I like the curriculum better though.

All we did was learn to read and write...

and buy and sell pieces of apples.

I'd be glad to put your name on the waiting list, if you'd like.

Thanks very much. I already know how to waltz.

Well, then perhaps you'd like to help me demonstrate.

♪♪ [ Continues ]

♪♪ [ Playing Piano ]

You were right. You doknow how to waltz.

♪♪ [ Continues ]

Mind if I cut in?Yes. But go right ahead.

♪♪ [ Ends ]

Why, Mr. Hill, I've never seen anyone catch on so quickly.

You're wonderful!Well, I had a wonderful teacher.

Well, there's certainly nothing more I can do for you.

Kate, we can notify the next person on the list that there's an opening.

Oh, wait--I'm proud of you. You've been a wonderful student.

Uh, does that mean I can't come to class anymore?

Well, you don't need to. Now you can go out into the world and waltz.

Fine. Fine.

Fine.

Now, Randy.

♪♪ [ Waltz Resumes ]Let's see what you've learned.

Congratulations, Steve. That was a great performance.

What's the matter?

Well, let's just say I'm a sore loser.

You didn't lose. You won. You got your diploma.

All right, let's say I'm a sore winner.

Get yourself a ride back to Shiloh. I'm taking your horse home.

One, two, three. One, two-- [ Door Opens, Closes ]

♪♪ [ Continues ]

One, two, three. One, two, three.

Step together, step.

"Black Bart drew his six-gun.

"'‘Hand over the money,' he said to the banker.

Looked up and down the"--

Oh, hi.Howdy.

Have a good trip?So-so.

Well, congratulations.Thanks.

What for?You're the only hand who's not at the dancing class.

Oh. Yeah. Oh, well, I had to sit this lesson out.

But she promised to save my place for me though.

Say, ain't she a pretty one?

Just like a fresh, new daisy.

Huh! Grouch.

Let's see now.

Coming!

Hi! Welcome home.

Thanks.Daddy's in the study.

You look different.Good different or bad different?

I'm not sure.Well, you have to have an opinion.

I do. My opinion is I don't know whether I like it or not.

Tell me, do I, uh, look like Felicity?

Oh, you haven't met her yet.I've met her.

You have? Where?At the dancing class.

Well, I must say, you certainly don't waste any time, do you?

Hello, Judge.Well, so glad to see you back.

How'd it go?Fine. I looked the herd over.

Looks like a good deal to me.

Good enough to pay their price?I would if it was my money.

I'll send 'em a telegram in the morning.

How about a nightcap?Fine.

Sit down.Oh, thanks.

Steve meet you at the station?

No. We had a little mix-up about that.Oh?

I missed him there. I naturally looked for him at Danny's.

Nobody from Shiloh was there.

That's funny. I was sure they got paid this afternoon.

Oh, that's right. The dancing class.

Would somebody mind telling me just what's going on in Medicine Bow?

[ Laughs ] Young lady named Felicity.

Yeah, I met her.Well, then you should know.

She's very pretty, I grant you, but--Oh, no.

She's more than that. Welcome home.

Thanks, Judge.

She has a certain quality, a--

Guess you could call it sheer, unadulterated goodness.

Sounds a little sticky to me.

Apparently, you haven't been properly exposed to it.

Maybe I'm just immune.

I'd hope not.

You know, it doesn't come along very often.

It's nice to see the way it brings out a similar response in others,

as you probably saw tonight.

I saw a bunch of cowhands acting like schoolkids.

Steve saw her teaching the kids, and he talked her into starting an adult class.

Sort of like a-- a return to innocence. [ Chuckling ]

You sound like you're under the same spell.

Oh, the whole town is. Men, women, boys, girls.

And Betsy. I saw her when I came in. And Betsy.

Did I hear my name being bandied around?

I, uh-- I was just saying how becoming your new hairdo is.

I'm afraid it didn't work. I'm just not the type.

Good night. Good night.

You forgot your milk.No, I didn't. It's Daddy's.

Felicity says a warm glass of milk makes you sleep better at night. Would you like some?

Uh, no, thanks. I think I'll just toss and turn as usual.

Suit yourself. Good night.

Good night.

Well, cheers.

Pleasant dreams.

[ Laughs ]

Good night, Judge.

Good night.

[ Sighs ]

Oh, well.

Thank you.

Are you tired?Oh, a little.

Are you sure this waltzing class isn't just one thing too many?

No, I enjoy it.I know you do, but--

No, really, it isn't too much.

All right, dear. Good night.Good night.

Is Grandfather still up?No, he went to bed as soon as we got here.

Felicity.Hmm?

That man you danced with.

The one who knew Steve.

That was Steve's foreman.

Why?Mmm, just wondering.

Why were you wondering?

Well, if you really want to know,

it's because of the way you looked at him when you danced with him,

the way you kept stealing glances afterwards and...

how disappointed you were when he left.

Was I really that obvious?

Mm-hmm. But then, I'm your sister.

It's funny, but you're right.

When he danced with me, I--

I had the strangest feeling, almost-- almost as if I knew him.

Maybe he reminds you of someone.

Oh, no. If I had ever met anyone like him, I would have remembered.

Oh, it-it's difficult to explain.

It's very easy to explain. It's spring.

Oh, now, Kate.

And he's a very handsome young man.

Oh, isn't he though?

Good night, dear.Good night.

Good morning, Judge.

Can you spare a minute?

Sure.

My foreman, Miss Kate Andrews.How do you do?

Hello. I saw you last night at dancing class. You did very well.

You didn't tell me you joined the dancing class.

Well, I didn't exactly.

Oh.

Miss Andrews is Felicity's sister.

Wanted to surprise her with a saddle horse for her birthday.

I thought we could help her select one from our stock.

- She a good rider? - She's an excellent rider.

Animals naturally respond to her.

Did I say something wrong?

Well, he's, uh, somewhat a cynic.

He's a little puzzled by the effect your sister's had on Medicine Bow.

Because you don't know her very well.

I'm sure it is.

- What about Starfire? - Good.

Prettiest mare on the ranch.

I'll catch her up.

He doesn't seem very enthusiastic about this.

Don't be put off by anything I just said.

They don't come any finer.

He just likes to make his own judgments.

Ohh.How do you like her?

Oh, she's wonderful.You handle her well. Maybe you oughta keep her.

No, she's for Felicity.The Indians say an Appaloosa chooses its own master.

Seems to me like--I said she's for Felicity.

[ Kate ] Who lives there?

Nobody.

It was built by a man from New York State, but he only lived there a couple of weeks.

The wife couldn't stand the loneliness.

He should've gotten rid of his wife and kept the house.

I agree, but he doesn't.

The house is for sale.

Felicity would love that house.

Would you bring her out here sometime?

Why do you always think of things in terms of Felicity?

Because she's my sister and I'm very fond of her.

Let's walk 'em a ways.

[ Sighs ]

How long have you been working for Judge Garth?Oh, a few years.

Where do you come from?Virginia.

Are you going to stay in Wyoming?

If the judge doesn't fire me, I'm happy right where I am. Why?

Just curious.

You know, I'm curious about something too.

What?Your sister.

Tell me, does she ever lose her temper or raise her voice or throw things?

[ Laughs ] Of course she does. She's human, like anybody else.

Just nicer than most. That's all.

Care for a drink?No, thanks.

Felicity's a very special kind of person.

I've never known her to give a moment's pain.

She's loved because she loves. It's as simple as that.

I'm sure you'll agree when you get to know her better.

From what I've seen, I guess I'd have to get in line.

She's got most of the single men in town at her feet already.

Well, I'll make it easier for you.

- Would you like to come to her birthday party next Wednesday? - Well, I--

Please come. I'd like you to.

Well, in that case, I accept with pleasure.

Guess we'd better be gettin' back.

Remember, Starfire's a surprise.

I won't breathe a word.

You look as though you've been in the sun today.

Yes, dear.

- It's very becoming. - Yes, dear.

On the way home from school, I met an African lion.

Yes, dear.

Kate! What happened to you today?

Oh, nothing really. I--

I went out to Shiloh.

What for?Just a little business with Judge Garth.

What kind of business?Nothing important.

How did you get so sunburnt?

The judge very kindly lent me a saddle horse.

Must you ask so many questions?

No.Good.

Where did you and the judge ride?

I didn't go with the judge. His foreman went with me.

Well! No wonder you're being so mysterious.

You had a rendezvous!

Not at all.

Oh, I don't blame you. I told you he was very handsome.

It wasn't--And an excellent dancer.

You've got the wrong--And so charming.

- It wasn't a rendezvous. - Oh, it's all right, Kate.

It's your secret.

I've had quite enough of this conversation.

Kate, you're blushing.

[ Giggles ]

[ Door Opens, Closes ]

Felicity missed her calling.

She should have been a Pinkerton detective.

Did she find out about the horse?

No, she's momentarily sidetracked.

She thinks I have a personal interest at Shiloh.

Oh!Oh, now, Grandfather, don't youstart.

Is it wise to get Felicity a horse?

Oh, she's a wonderful mare.

She's very easy to handle.

Felicity's wanted one all of her life.

But who knows where she'll go or what might happen.

She's wanted to see Wyoming. Let's not clip her wings.

It's important to live, Grandfather,

and this is her 20th spring.

So soon.

How long since your mother left us?

Sixteen years.

Caution isn't always the answer, is it, Kate?

No.

How many years difference between Felicity and you?

Five.

Seems like more, doesn't it?

It's time you got married.

You know I'm an old maid. Nonsense.

You're a very handsome woman.

When a man wants to throw a bone to an older woman, he calls her "handsome."

I never heard you sound bitter before.

How can I look at Felicity and not feel a little bitter?

Child, Felicity is very dear,

but you must have a life too.

Perhaps...

some other spring.

Whoa.

Joe!

Good morning.Morning.

Here's the Shiloh list. I'll be back to pick it up later.

I'll have it ready.Oh, I almost forgot.

Betsy wants, uh, two packages of needles, six spools of white thread,

two spools of green, one spool of yellow, four spools of black,

four spools of brown, six dozen papers of pins...

and a hundred yards of unbleached muslin.

Good morning!Good morning, Mr. Mapes.

Good morning.Good morning.

Seeing her makes me feel better all day.

Why don't you join the waltzing class?I can't get in.

My wife told her I know how.[ Laughs ]

How is Mary?Oh, she's fine.

Why don't you come over to dinner tonight? She'd like to see you.

You got a date.

Did you say four spools of needles?

Joe, I don't think needles come in spools.

You'd better look at the list.

He's for you. His name is Felicity.

Well, thank you, Mary.

He's beautiful.Yes, ma'am.

[ Murmuring ]

There we go.

There.

Good morning.

[ Class ] Good morning, dear teacher.

Thank you. Now let's see how many of you remember what I told you yesterday.

Let me see your hands.

Very good.

Now let's really surprise our parents...

and show them how clean we can be in the house too.

Let's review our deportment.

What does a gentleman do when a lady enters the room?

He gets up.

Ow!

What did we decide about slingshots yesterday?

We voted them out.

You may sit down, Tessie.

I will expect the slingshot to be left on my desk during recess.

We are gentlemen, not hoodlums.

Now, what does a gentleman do before he sits down to dinner?

He seats the ladies-- [ Snap ]

Ow!

You may sit down, Tessie.

And, Tessie, please, let the gentlemen answer for themselves.

If there is another episode with the slingshot,

all the gentlemen will have to remain after class.

Now, Robbie, would you like to tell me what a gentleman does before he sits down to dinner?

- He seats the ladies. - Huh!

- You aren't a lady. - I am too!

[ Robbie ] You tripped me going into supper.

He put worms in my bed. That's enough, Tessie.

[ Students Giggling ] You may sit down, Robbie.

A gentleman doesn't put worms in a lady's bed.

- You put a toad in mine. - [ Students Giggling ]

Only a little one.

Why didn't you wait for me this morning? I'd have ridden in with you.

I didn't know you were coming to town.

Tie him up, will ya? I'm late for school.

Children, each one of you has brothers and sisters,

and you are so lucky.

Don't waste the years that you're growing up squabbling with one another.

You know, each one of us has humor and joy and tenderness and wisdom.

The more we learn about one another, the richer we are.

So tonight, I want all of you to write a composition...

on the things that you like about your brothers and sisters.

Suppose there isn't anything.

I'm sure that you will find many things if you try.

We squander time and energy when we quarrel,

and they are priceless gifts...

because, no matter how long we live,

we never have enough.

So now I'd like you to greet our visitor. Judge Garth?

[ Class ] Welcome to Medicine Bow Elementary School.

Thank you.

The judge is going to give us a talk on the Constitution of the United States.

I am sure that we are all going to pay very strict attention.

After the Revolutionary War,

a group of dedicated men met in Philadelphia...

to draw up a set of rules...

under which the new country could function.

[ Garth ] Well, it's a remarkable document--

[ Continues, Indistinct ]

I'm sure they can find a seat for you inside.

Judge Garth's representing Shiloh in school today.

Somebody'll have to take care of the ranch.

You won't forget to come to the birthday party.I'm looking forward to it.

Do you really mean that, or are you just being polite?

No, I've been listening to her through the window. Beginning to see what you mean.

If that's the case, don't wait for the party. Can you come tonight for supper?

Joe Mapes just asked me to his house tonight.

Well, anyway, we'll see you Wednesday.Right.

Do a neat job now. We have company tonight.

Judge Garth said that all men are created equal.

Why didn't he say anything about women?

[ Laughing ] That's a good question.

[ Footsteps ]

Evening, dear.Joe.

Good evening, Mary.Well.

It's about time you came to supper.

I was telling Joe the other day how long it's been since we had you over.

It sure has.

Hello, Tessie.Hi!

Tessie, what's wrong with you?Nothing, Pa.

Well, there must be. You're clean!

And voluntarily.

You'd better have the doc take a look at her tomorrow.

Miss Felicity says it's not necessary to be a pig in order to raise one.

Well, now, that's real good reasoning.

"Keep clean, bear fruit, earn life...

and watch till the white-winged reapers come."

Henry Vaughan, 1577-1641.

Good evening, sir.Good evening, Robbie.

He's clean too!

"Keep clean, bear fruit, earn life"--

Henry Vaughan. 1577-1641.

Sit down before you get dirty.

[ Giggles ]Miss Felicity casts a long shadow.

You may not believe it, but my children are rapidly becoming strangers.

Thank you, Son.

Now me.

Thank you, Robbie.

Did Miss Felicity teach you that too?

Yes, sir. "Yes, sir"?

That's a distinct improvement over "yep." Wouldn't you say?

It certainly is.

Miss Felicity says a gentleman always seats a lady.

What does that make me?

That makes you not-- [ Mary ] Tessie!

Eat your stew before it gets cold, dear.

Do you like all that folderol?

- Well-- - You like it. Get up.

Oh, go on. Eat your stew.

I will not have my children making a bumpkin out of me.

Get up.

Thank you, dear.

[ Sighs ] Now I'm a gentleman?

That was nice, Pa!

You like your new teacher, children?

Like her?

They could cut me up into little pieces and feed me to wild elephants for her.

I remember when I was in school. I hated my teacher.

I hated mine, too, but...

I never had a teacher like Miss Andrews.

There never was anyone in the whole world like Miss Andrews.

Oh, you're gonna look beautiful.

Hold her still.

What are you doin'?Putting a ribbon in her hair like Felicity wears.

Aw, come on.I think she'll be the hit of the party.

How come I'm not invited?You're too young.

I'm older than you are.Only in years.

I don't know what you're squawkin' about, Randy. I'm not invited either.

It really isn't a party. It's just sorta family.

There.

Steve, would you tie Starfire up to the back of the surrey?

What's he all dressed up for?

You mean he's family?

If it'll make you feel any better, Kate asked me, not Felicity.

Oh. You and Kate. All right.

Nowis it all right to tie Starfire up to the back of the surrey?

Oh, sure, sure.Thanks very much.

Come on, horse.I'll tell Daddy we're ready.

Tell Felicity I'll be at the next class.

Oh, I love you! I love you, I love you!

Looks like the feeling's mutual.

Oh, thank you, Kate and Grandpa.

Happy birthday, darling.

[ Felicity ] Thank you so much.[ Grunts ]

Happy birthday from all of us at Shiloh.

Oh, it's-- it's-- it's beautiful.

- It's all done by hand. - It's the most beautiful saddle I've ever seen.

- How can I ever thank you? - By enjoying it.

Oh, to be here,

to have such friends--

I'm the luckiest person in the world.

- What are you gonna call your mare? - I think Starfire's perfect.

- I wouldn't think of changing it. - Good! That's what I named her.

Let's go inside. I have some things on the stove.

Come on, Grandpa.

This is the happiest birthday of my life.

My wish is that each one of you will have a birthday as happy as you've made mine.

Oh![ Cheering, Laughing ]

Congratulations!Thank you!

There's a special Western blessing we use here.

May the road rise with you, the wind stay at your back...

and the good Lord hold you in the hollow of his hand.

Thank you. The same to you.

Many happy returns of the day, darling.Thank you, Grandpa.

Many, many happy returns.Thanks, Kate.

I'm sure you'll find Starfire a very sure-footed animal.

You can take any mountain trail with her.

Why don't you do that? Find out why we all love Wyoming.

Oh, April must be more beautiful here than anywhere else in the world.

Well, it's a-- a rather busy time of year.

Thousands of colts, lambs and calves waiting to be ushered into the world.

"To everything there is a season,

a time to be born and a time to die."

Spring is a time of birth, not death.

My 20th spring has always seemed like such a threshold.

You catch up with life in your 20s.

You gain wisdom, experience, knowledge.

And we fall in love.

Yes. Well, we certainly do.

You can't know when you'll fall in love-- really know.

Why not? To everything there is a season.

Felicity frequently knows what will happen.

I sometimes think she has second sight.

[ Kate ] Oh, I hope not.

I don't think any of us really wants to know the future.Why not?

It would take all the surprises out of life.

Wouldn't we get so much more from the present? Wouldn't we make every single moment count?

I don't know.

I think we would.

Felicity, if you'd like to go riding this Saturday...

and you're interested in a guide,

I'd be happy to oblige.

I-I'd love it.

Oh, did you ever see such a world?

No, not until today.

Oh, it's as though April had flung down a beautiful carpet for us to run across.

Everything is-- Everything is so fresh and so new.

Oh, my whole life is worth this moment.

The universe is mine.

And everything in it.

They're spending a lot of time together.

At first, I thought he was going to be your young man.

Well, you were wrong.

I'm sorry.

Don't be. It's her spring.

Child, if it's serious, you'll have to tell him.

What, and spoil it for her?

But what of him?

I'm only interested in her happiness.

Men aren't the only ones who love adventure.

That's why I asked Kate and Grandpa to come out here.

What did you expect to find?

Mmm, gold.[ Chuckles ]

You're not grizzled enough to be a prospector.

Oh, this is the gold that I came for--

the bright mornings and the yellow noons...

and the glowing afternoons.

My heart harvests each sheaf of hours and stores them.

Waste not, want not.

I never thought about harvesting time.

Oh, but we do. Every day.

And it's so important to use it well because there's never enough,

and, in the end, we always weep for more.

Not you.

You counted your hours and knew their value while you were young.

Yes.

Yes, I counted my hours,

and I knew their value...

while I was young.

Oh!

Oh, isn't he beautiful?

Yes, very beautiful.Oh, April is the most wonderful month.

Yes. There you go.

[ Calf Moos ]

Oh, I wish we could keep it.

I wish that we could just stop the clocks and keep everything just as it is this moment.

Just forever April.

Oh, what could May possibly bring to surpass it?

I've only known ordinary springs.

This spring, I'd hesitate to ask.

[ Mooing ]

[ Both Laughing ]

Whoa! Hi-yo! Ho!

Morning.

May I talk to you?Sure.

What's on your mind?

Felicity.What about her?

To put it bluntly, do you love her?

Isn't that between Felicity and me?

I don't want to see her get hurt.

- I don't either, but I don't see-- - You didn't answer my question.

- I don't intend to answer it. - Very well.

I was hoping that we could--

Kate.

Everybody gets hurt sooner or later about something.

It's part of living.

Think you can stand between Felicity and life forever?

I'll stand between Felicity and pain as long as I can.

Think that's what she wants?

Well, perhaps not, but...

outside of Jonah, I'm the only one she has to look out for her.

Look out for her or smother her?

I came here to discuss your intentions, not mine.

But if you don't wish to discuss them,

perhaps you'd be kind enough not to mention this to Felicity.

I wouldn't want to embarrass her.

Kate, I know you mean well--Thank you.

If I told you what you already know,

that I love Felicity very much,

then what?

Then I'd say marry her as soon as possible.

[ Chuckles ] Well, I'm glad you approve.

But shouldn't that be left up to us? Assuming, of course, that Felicity wants to marry me.

Have you asked her?

Frankly, I've been waiting until I was sure the answer would be yes.

Well, don't wait. Please don't wait.

I don't understand you, Kate.

Why are you trying to arrange her life like this?

Felicity wasn't quite five when our parents died. I was 10.

It was an early age to begin taking care of everybody. Perhaps I never got over it.

What about your grandfather?

It was a whole year before he could even come out of his room.

The shock of finding the bodies--

But there's no reason to burden you with family history.

How did your parents die, Kate?

My father shot my mother and then himself.

Felicity doesn't know.

She never will.

Thought if we came up here, it might make things easier for me.

This is one of the first places I brought you to.

It's my favorite place in all the world.

I had a pretty good speech all worked out last night,

but, uh, I seem to have forgotten it.

Well, maybe if you told me what it was about, I could help you.

You know what it's about.

I can't begin to give you the things you deserve--

money, social position,

not even a very comfortable way of life.

All I can say is I--

[ Laughs ]

What does a man say at a time like this?

I don't know what a man says, only a woman.

All right then, what does a woman say?

A woman--

A woman says yes.

They want to marry.

Yes, I know.

What are we going to do?Help them plan the wedding, if we're asked.

Kate, this is wrong. Terribly wrong.

Why? They love each other.

They have a right to know.

And if we weren't here, who'd tell them?

But we arehere.

We're not going to say one word.

Felicity's going to have her spring, every moment God grants her.

What about the man? You can't ignore him.

There'll be other springs for him.

Is it true?

If you're gonna knock my block off, wait till I finish shaving.

That way, your hand won't slip.

I asked you a simple question. What about a simple answer?

All right. Yes.

That's what she said, huh?

That's it.

[ Exhales ]

Well, congratulations.

All I can say is the best man lost.

I know it, and I'm very grateful to you.

All right?

Well, at least it'll put you out of circulation.[ Chuckles ]

Congratulations. I'm not even gonna say I told you so.

I don't mind if you do. Will you be my best man?

I'd be honored to.

Is it true?So I've been given to understand.

Congratulations! Are you happy? Do you have the ring? Where you gonna live?

Oh, I feel like I want to cry.[ Laughs ] Why?

I don't know. I'm terribly happy for him, but we are losing him.

I'm not leaving!

You lose a son when he takes a wife,

but a daughter is a daughter all of her life.

I'm a little old to be your son, Betsy.

You know very well what I mean.

- It means you're part of the family. - Thanks.

Do we give the groom away?Oh, no. He's already taken care of that.

You're marrying the nicest girl in Medicine Bow.

With one possible exception.

And I want you to promise me one thing.Yes?

That you'll find out how she gets her hair to swirl in that little dip on her crown.

- Why don't you just ask her? - That wouldn't be good form.

Oh, I see.

Sure like to know how she does it though.

- When you gonna get married? - Two weeks from Sunday.

That issoon.That's practically tomorrow.

Seems like a million years away to me.

Oh!

Oh, look.

Jonah had it made in Paris for Mother's wedding.

Oh, it's beautiful.

Oh, it's--

It's a little sad, isn't it?

She wore it just that one day all those years ago...

and then just folded it away for us.

Do you remember her at all?

A little.

I remember her holding you in her arms and singing a lullaby.

She was slender and blonde, very much like you.

Oh, it's lovely.

It's--[ Sighs ]

It might have been made for you.

It's like having her arms around me.

For the first time, she feels close.

All these years, she's been only a shadow.

What are doing with that dress?

Well, if it makes you unhappy, Grandpa, I won't wear it.

No.

No, no, it was... just a shock. I--

I'd forgotten how like her you are.

Don't be sad, Grandpa.

Her life was short, but very happy.

Yes.

Her life was short,

but very happy.

Felicity.Reverend Haggarty.

I understand congratulations are in order.Yes. Isn't it wonderful?

It is wonderful to find love. And you're marrying a fine man, and a mighty lucky one.

Thank you. I'm so happy.

Would you perform the services?Of course.

Have you picked a date?Is two weeks from Sunday indecently soon?

No, of course not.Wonderful then.

Isn't it a beautiful day?

Good morning, Mr. Mapes. Did you hear the good news?The wedding's off!

No, it's two weeks from Sunday, and you ought to be glad for me.

Well, I am.

I'm marrying the finest, kindest, dearest man in all the world.

Well, I wouldn't go so far as to say that.

Youth and good looks aren't everything.

I'll be late. I have to hurry.

And if he isn't good to ya, I'll pulverize him!

[ All Chattering ]

Good morning, boys and girls.

[ All, Dejectedly ] Good morning, Miss Felicity.

What's the matter this morning?

Tessie? What is it?

You're going to get married.

Well, yes, I am.

Who's gonna teach us?

We don't want another teacher.

I-It's very nice to know that you all like me,

but I haven't done my job if you would reject another teacher.

Every teacher has something to give you.

We've linked minds for a time.

We've-- We've explored worlds...

a-and we've sought truths,

and we've arrived at conclusions.

But after a time, you would outgrow me anyway and go on to other teachers...

who would-- would show you deeper truths and larger worlds.

I don't want to outgrow you, Miss Felicity.

Tessie, part of growing up is learning to let go.

[ Tessie ] It hurts to let go.

I know it does.

But do you know how to stop the hurt?

You look forward.

Don't look back and move forward.

Don't stand still and--

and never, never be sad for what's over.

Be glad that it was yours to enjoy and--

and know that tomorrow will bring something better.

I'm sorry to interrupt, but I was on my way to town...

and I wondered if you'd be free after school.

Certainly.Good. I'll pick you up.

All right, boys and girls, now back to work.

Coming?

Whose house is this? What are you being so mysterious about?

Shh!

Like it?Well, it's lovely.

But--Wait.

There. That looks better.

It's beautiful, but I don't understand why you brought me all this way just to show me--

Would you like to live here?

You-- You can't be serious.

Oh, yes, I am.

But we can't afford--Judge Garth offered to advance me the down payment.

I don't know what to say.

Say, "Yes, I'd be delighted to live here."Oh, I would, but--

No buts. It's all settled.

Oh, I don't believe it. I--

I never dreamed that we'd live in a home like this.

We may have to economize a little bit on some other things.

Oh, I'll be the most economical wife you ever saw.

I'll darn your socks and sew on buttons.Please, not on my socks.

I'll make a note of that.

Oh-- Oh, I can just see this room...

filled with laughter and children's voices.

Girls, all looking like their mother.

And boys, with their father's eyes and smile.

Sounds like a busy household with 40 kids running around.

Forty?Well, they'll have a few friends.

[ Laughing ] Oh, darling.[ Chuckles ]

Oh, my dear. My very, very dear.

Now, you'll all want dark suits, white shirts, dark, conservative ties.

Sounds more like a funeral than a wedding.

Where are we supposed to get dark, conservative ties?

The ties are on me. Steve, you'll be head usher.

The rest of you will take orders from him.

I don't know if I could be an usher or not.

I haven't been to church since, uh-- well, since I was baptized.

The wedding's gonna take place right here at Shiloh.

How are we gonna know where to tell everybody to sit?

You don't tell them. You escort them.

Well, we're liable to ball the whole wedding up.

The groom wants you to be ushers, and that's that.

You'll find out the rest of your duties at the rehearsal. Now, any further questions?

Uh, yeah. Why don't they elope?

[ All Laughing, Chattering ]

[ Footsteps ]

Well, I've just written the last invitation to the party.

Didn't leave anybody out, did you?

No. I double-checked the list.Good.

Felicity's gonna have a very busy week.

There's a shower for her every afternoon...

and a party every night, ending with ours.

Make sure there's enough food. I'll take care of the champagne.

I didn't realize there were so many details to getting married.

Well, one of these days, I'll be doing this for you.

Uh, not too soon, I hope.

I'm still window shopping.

Good for you.Good night.

[ Door Closes ]

[ Sniffles ] I'll be all right in a minute.

You're flesh and blood, child.

There's a limit to what you can endure.

Such a little thing-- a catch in the hem.

And I suddenly thought of Mother...

catching her heel in the hem.

[ Chuckles ] And I started to cry for no reason at all.

You've forced yourself to carry too heavy a burden.

Put it down. Put it down, Kate.

I can't. I can't fail her now.

[ Door Opens ]

Jonah. Kate.Won't you come in for just a minute?

- Not tonight. You're tired. - How was the party?

[ Virginian ] Wonderful. But my legs are about to give out. Too much dancing.

Good night, dear.Good night.

[ Sighs ]

Oh, I'm a little tired.

A good night's sleep is just what you need.Yes.

[ Door Opens ]

Here, dear. Swallow this.

I'm almost too tired to hold the glass. Isn't that silly?

I'll hold it for you.

Mmm. I'll be fine after I get some sleep.

Of course you will.

Did I tell you about the house?

What house?

It's the most beautiful house.

There's room for you and Grandpa...

and 40 children.

He's not thinking of buying the Simmons house?

He doesn't have that kind of money.

Judge Garth is going to loan it to him.

Good night, Kate.

Good night, dear.

Good morning. What brings you out here so early?

I've done a terrible thing. I can't go through with it.

What are you talking about?

Is there someplace we can talk?

There's nobody in the bunkhouse.

Now, what's this all about?

I wanted her to have this spring.

I wanted her to have as much of life as she could.

What's happened?

I thought I could go through with it.

But I can't. I can't let you go on believing, making plans.

Kate, tell me what's wrong!

Felicity is... going to die.

Before we left to come out here,

the doctor said she had one year at the most.

She doesn't know.

It's not true.

A year ago, I was told...

that if Felicity became an invalid,

if she remained absolutely quiet,

she might live two years,

even three.

I had the choice to make.

One year of life for Felicity or...

three years of waiting death.

I chose life.

I wanted her to live until she died.

I c-can't believe it.

My mother had the same illness.

She knew.

Day after day, I would...

watch her lying in her bed,

gazing out the window, waiting.

And sometimes I'd even hear her crying at night,

begging my father to end her waiting.

Well, at last, one night, he did.

I told Felicity...

that our parents were killed in an accident with a runaway team.

Was I wrong? Should I have told her?

There are good doctors in San Francisco. Maybe they could--

There's no cure.

Felicity has never lived in shadows.

She's never been afraid.

I wanted her to have all of life that she could have.

The only thing I didn't think of was...

what it was doing to you.

What would you have done? Tell me.

I-I don't know.

Once you said I was being too protective of Felicity.

Maybe now you understand why.

What are you going to do?

Felicity?

I'm in the living room.

Oh, you shouldn't be out here alone.

Why not? I'll be here alone when you're at work, won't I?

I was so worried when Betsy said you'd stopped by for the key.

Oh. Are you going to be one of those worrying husbands?I'm afraid so.

All right.

You've been moving furniture.

Only trying different arrangements.

Come sit down.

I thought you were going to rest today.

Oh, this is better than resting.

I've just been sitting here all day...

thinking of all the lovely things that will happen in this house.

What time will you be home in the evenings?Well, that all depends.

Running a ranch isn't like working in an office, you know.

Well, it doesn't matter. I'll be waiting.

Do you like spinach?No! Why?

Well, I'm planning menus. How about carrots?I hate 'em.

Turnips?Ugh!

Beets?Mm-mmm.

String beans? Lima beans?Mm-mmm.

Tomatoes? Lettuce?

No, thanks.I'm going to see that you read a book on nutrition.

You're imbalanced.And you're beautiful.

Man doth not live on bread alone.

No. Meat and potatoes.[ Scoffs ]

Oh, I don't know how you can be so healthy.I'm a challenge to science.

Oh, I do want to make a good wife for you.

And I don't want you ever to have any regrets.

I won't. I promise you.

And I promise you...

I will love you as long as I live.

Uh, ladies and gentlemen, may I have your attention, please?

Thank you.

Now, when Franklin plays the "Wedding March," the procession starts.

Uh, Franklin, will you, uh, start the "March," please?

♪♪ [ "Wedding March," Discordant Notes ]

Franklin, I suggest some rehearsing before Sunday.

Now, uh, first, the flower girl.

Where are you, child?

Here! Let me through! I have to get through!

Ow! You don't have to bite your way through, kid.

- I had to get through! - All right, Tessie, come on. Start down the aisle.

Try to keep in step. Remember, everyone will be following you.

Right foot or left foot?

Um, right will be fine.

That's fine, Tessie. That's fine.

And now the bridesmaids.

Let's get in line, girls. That's right.

Just start moving. Try and keep in step.

Very good.

Maid of honor.

And now the bride and Mr. Andrews.

Oh, wait a minute. I forgot.

I don't believe the bride is supposed to rehearse this part of the ceremony.

Well, why not?It's supposed to be bad luck.

[ Felicity ] Oh. Well, I'm not superstitious.

I believe the real reason for that custom...

is so as not to take the edge off the groom's awe and delight as he sees the bride...

walk down the aisle towards him for the first time.

Would you like to do it?

Well, not if it would take the edge off the groom's, uh, awe and delight.

Nothing could do that.

All right.

Well, now, have we forgotten anything?

Only one thing-- me.

[ Chuckles ] I'm very sorry.

- This is my first formal wedding. - That's all right.

You stand up there at the other end of the room with your ushers and your best man.

Judge? Come on, boys.

Would the ushers and the best man step forward to the other end of the room, please?

Very good.

♪♪ [ "Wedding March" Processional ]

♪♪ [ Ends ]

That was fine. All we have to do is remember what we did.

Do you think you can remember?

Forever.

[ Guests Chattering, Laughing ]♪♪ [ Classical ]

If you don't mind, I'd like to waltz with my fiancée.

Come on. Don't be so greedy. You've got the rest of your life to waltz with her.

So have you.It's gonna be different after you're married, Felicity.

She's never been more beautiful.

Never.

Happy?I'm the happiest woman in the world.

♪♪ [ Stops ]

[ Guests Murmuring ]

Why am I lying down?

You fainted, dear.

Too much excitement.

You know what I was thinking?

Don't talk now. Tell me later.

No, I want you to know.

I was thinking,

just before I opened my eyes,

that-- that if this should be all,

if there should be no tomorrow,

it has been such happiness...

knowing you in the last few moments of my life.

[ Kate ] Felicity?

Felicity!

[ Children Chattering ]

You must learn to live, Kate.

For yourself.

I don't know if I can.

You know, I once heard Felicity say to a child,

"Part of growing up...

is learning to let go."

The child said,

"It hurts to let go."

And Felicity's answer was,

"Look forward. Don't look back.

"Move forward. Don't stand still.

And never, never be sad for what's over."

You raised her, dear.

She must have learned it from you.

Thank you.

[ Chattering Continues ]

Wanna go any higher?All right.

All right.

[ Bell Clanging ]

Time for school.

[ Kate Laughs ]