1183 - Marry you? asks Daphne.  I've loved you from the first moment I saw you, admits Gerard, the day Quentin brought you in and introduced to me as his governess--you see, I'm not afraid to mention his name (she turns away), but you don't want to hear it, do you--tell me how you feel?  Afraid, she confesses.  Yes, he says--afraid to say yes, afraid of the proposal.  You know me so well, she says.  So very well, he assures her.  Better than anyone else, I sometimes think, she says.  Isn't that what love is, he asks--isn't it?--when two people know each other so very well?--I know you're upset about Joanna's return.  I'm glad my sister's alive, insists Daphne.  Are you? he asks--of course you are--however, it does change things around, doesn't it?  She walks away from him.  He pursues her--although you aren't willing to admit it right now, he says, your life is changing, isn't it?--Quentin used to mention Joanna quite a lot aboard ship.  Quentin and Joanna had broken up long before that trip, protests Daphne.  But he still couldn't get her out of his mind; he could never forget about her, says Gerard insidiously--does Joanna still love Quentin, Daphne?  I don't know, she replies, upset.  Are you sure you don't? he asks.  I haven't had time to think it out, she insists.  This is the time, isn't it? he asks--you see you are depending on me, and that's the way it should be--he puts his hands on her shoulders and says, "Daphne, you must marry me--I will show you new worlds you've never seen before, wondrous new lands, I know that sounds fascinating for you, doesn't it?--you will admit that, at least."  Yes she says uncertainly.  And under that fascination, he says, his arms around her waist, you know something is missing--something that does exist--love--and it's time, Daphne, you learned about it.  They're standing at the foot of the bed now, about to kiss, but Samantha barges the room and catches them.  Well! she says severely, isn't there something you should be doing, Miss Harridge, instead of looking around the house?  You will remember what I told you, Daphne? murmurs Gerard with a chuckle.  Yes, she says, and leaves.  So this is where the lovers meet! accuses Samantha.  What a suspicious woman you are! complains Gerard--I merely come here because I want quiet and peace!--and a little chance to think--she had no idea I was here--she was rather shocked at Joanna's return, so I thought perhaps I could help her.  You're so concerned about her, says Sam nastily, you can't leave any woman alone, can you? (Bingo!--where does he get the energy?)--advising her, helping her with her problems--what about ME?  Now, Samantha, says Gerard.  'Now Samantha,' she mocks, that's the sympathy I get, that's the understanding you give me--don't you understand?--a woman has come back from the dead to kill me?  You're very wrong, my dear, says Gerard, she's very much alive.  If she is, says Sam, sitting on the bed, she'll remember that I tried to kill her--why does she act as if she doesn't know me, why?--You're such a big help to Daphne, why don't you help me?--that woman is going to kill me!  Samantha, says Gerard warningly, you're becoming hysterical again.  You don't care, do you? she asks him, you'd like it if she killed me because you no longer have any use for me.  If you'll excuse me, he says, and tries to leave the room.  She stops him, grabs his arms, and says, "When you found out I was writing those letters and leaving them, impersonating Joanna, you had plenty of use for me, didn't you?--I was so weak to give in to you, to forgive you your cruelties--you said you loved me!  And I can still say it, says Gerard.  But you don't mean it, do you? she snaps--you can't get rid of me so easily this time, you can't push me away--I know too much about you!--I can go to Quentin now.  I wouldn't do that, he threatens.  I can go to Barnabas! she reminds him.  No, he says.  I know so much about you! she cries, her face filled with venom.  Stop it! he orders.They begin to struggle.  Let go of me! she demands, getting into his face--I'll go to court and tell them all--you're going to be sorry!  He slaps her across the face and she falls onto the bed.

Holding her sore cheek, Samantha gazes at Gerard with blazing hated.  "You...you..." she says.  He apologizes. So it's come to this--you don't even have to pretend now, she says, hurt.  She rises from the bed.  You became hysterical, he reminds her.  You don't have to be nice to me now, she says.  I will be nice to you, my dear, if you would let me, he says.  Let you?--all I want is to feel you beside me, she says, to know I can count on you.  If that's all you want, he says, sitting on the bed beside her, I'll be by your side, but you must forget these jealousies you have, these little scenes you cause.  What am I going to do? she asks.  The first thing you must do is realize you don't know all my plans, he says, I have reasons for everything I do--I have one why Daphne was in this room.  Don't you think I know THAT? she asks sarcastically. There you go again, he says, my reasons aren't exactly like yours.  What are your reasons? she asks.  Do you think I will tell you, he asks, after the threats you made to me?--your threats are not exactly conducive to confidence.  She looks sorry.  I won't tell Barnabas, she promises.  And after the trial is over, he says, kissing her cheek, all the games will be over.  Will they be? she asks--he caresses her face--or will there be new games, Gerard?--and what am I going to do about Joanna?  I promise to take care of her, he says--run along--I want some time to think.  Will you come to me tonight? she asks.  If I can, he assures her.  (Now we know how he's been comforting her nights).  Before leaving the room, she gives him a longing look and asks, bitterly "Why did I have to fall in love with you?"  She leaves.  To himself, Gerard thinks, I don't know, it isn't Joanna I have to think about--it's you, Samantha, you're the problem that will have to be solved.  (Oh, oh, Sam, are your days numbered?)

Jail - Quentin, says Joanna, Daphne showed me one of the notes she's been receiving--"It wasn't my handwriting, so I don't know if it was mine, I didn't write it--do you know who could have done it?"  I couldn't prove it, at least not now, Quentin says.  We must find out, she says--we, I said we--for so long now, I've said I must do this, I must do that--now that I'm with you, I say we.  He starts to say something.  Joanna shows him her locket.  Did you see this? she asks--I've been wearing it in the hospital--everything else is gone, it just disappeared--do you know when you gave it to me?  Yes, I remember, he says, reluctantly.  It was at my birthday, she says, grinning, you said next year, at my next birthday, I would be Mrs. Quentin Collins, living at Collinwood--next year, everything would be different.  Yeah, says Quentin, pacing the cell, not knowing what to say to her remembrances.  You don't mind me saying these things, do you? she asks.  Quentin looks uncomfortable.  I've learned to appreciate the good times, she says.  Do you remember all the bad times? he asks--the night shortly after your birthday, when I told you Samantha wouldn't give me a divorce?--remember what happened to us after that?  The fighting was my fault, she insists.  No it wasn't, says Quentin.  The fighting was just to hold us together, she says, I was just...  Now listen to me, interrupts Quentin, we simply realized that whatever we had between us was gone.  It only seemed so, she says.  You agreed when it happened, when we broke up, he reminds her.  I didn't mean for it to be forever, she says.  When we separated, you said you didn't love me anymore, he says.  I only said that because you wanted me to say it, she insists, because you didn't feel you loved me anymore--do you think it's right we're separated now?--tell me, Quentin, I won't go to pieces, I'm strong now.  Yes, he says, I think it's right we're separated.  You're in love again, with someone else? she asks--who, Quentin, tell me who?  Daphne, he replies.  Oh, she says, my darling Quentin, of course, she's so much like what I was.  But I love her now, he says.  Does she love you? she asks.  Yes, he replies.  Heartbroken, she sits down.  He sits beside her--thank you very much for coming here, he says gently, for testifying for me--because if I'm freed, it's only going to be because of you--but I think it best you leave Collinsport now.  Now? she asks, you want me to leave now?  It almost seems as if he's going to kiss her, but he rises, a look of pain on his face.  Quentin, says Joanna, you haven't forgotten me, you can't say you have.  No, I haven't forgotten, he says.  I cannot leave now, she insists.

Collinwood  - Daphne works at the drawing room desk, perhaps governess paperwork.  Samantha enters.  I'm very sorry if I upset you by being in that wing of the house, says Daphne.  You always upset me, says Sam, your loyalty is not to Tad and me, but to my husband, isn't it?  I'm sorry you feel that way, says Daphne.  You could make me feel much better, you know, says Sam.  How? asks Daphne.By being honest with me for once, says Sam, what did your sister Joanna say about me--what?

My sister said nothing about you, says Daphne, puzzled.  Are you sure? asks Sam.  Of course I'm sure, says Daphne, standing--I don't understand, you were never mentioned--though you may be interested in knowing I showed her one of those letters that her ghost had supposedly left for me--Joanna never wrote it.  I can't understand what's happening in this house, says Sam, shrugging.  I've been honest with you, says Daphne, would you kindly be the same with me?--sometime ago, I thought the ghost of Joanna Mills was coming for me--I was in this room--remember that?--you were looking over my shoulder, and screamed--you said you saw the spirit.  I testified to that effect in court, yes, says Sam.  My sister is very much alive, says Daphne, are you sure you saw anyone at all?  What are you accusing me of? demands Sam--you saw the spirit yourself after the seance you had with my husband!  I saw a figure, that's all, says Daphne, and I think it was a very real person, a person intent on frightening me from this house!  You think it was I? cries Sam.  I don't know, says Daphne.  You'll have to blame someone else, says Sam, I am not responsible--she leaves the room.  Upon meeting Gerard coming downstairs, she quietly says, Daphne suspects me--she thinks I left those letters.  I'll take care of it, Gerard promises.  You had better, she warns.  He gives her a look and enters the drawing room.  Samantha heads upstairs.  Arguing with the lady of the house again, Daphne? asks Gerard.  I'm beginning to think she's dangerous, says Daphne.  I'll protect you, he says--let me protect you.  Please, she says, I need time to think.  She leaves.  You need help, Daphne, yes you do, he says to himself--help in making up your mind.

Daphne goes to the bridal chamber--why, she asks herself, do I only feel peace in this room?  She sits on the bed, then lies down.  Only here, she muses.

Sleep, Daphne, orders Gerard, sitting before the fireplace in the drawing room--sleep, and in your dreams you will see what trouble you have been and the problems you have caused--and this time in your dreams, you will remember!  He holds up the witch's symbol before the fire.

Daphne dreams:  She sees Joanna and Quentin together.My Joanna's come back to me, says Quentin joyously.  He kisses Joanna--I didn't think I'd see you again, he murmurs.  You'd forgotten me, says Joanna.  No, he assures her; they kiss again.  It's as if no time has passed, she says, it's as if we're back in our cottage--we can be together again.  We've got to be, says Quentin, holding her, do you think I could ever love anyone, knowing you were alive?--when I came back from sea, the first thing I wanted to do was find you again.--do you love me, as much as I love you?  Yes, yes, she says, smiling.  They kiss again as Joanna's sappy music plays in the background.  Daphne awakens muttering no!, asking Joanna, "What am I going to do?--oh, Joanna!"

(Final act not summarized, including scenes between Daphne and Joanna,Joanna and Samantha,and Daphne and Quentin.)

NOTES:  Gerard continues working hard to push Daphne into his arms and his bed.  He's contemplating doing something to get rid of Samantha.  He uses women for witchcraft and sex, then seems happy to toss them aside, yet he loves and wants Daphne for his wife.  What would a coven master want with a wife, anyway?  She has shown herself a woman of spirit, even of murderous intent, but she really doesn't seem to be his type--unless he's going for a virgin, which Miranda probably was when she came into Judah's circle.

Joanna still loves Quentin, but he doesn't feel the same way, that's clear, and her profession of love embarrasses him.  Perhaps Samantha has good reason for her bitterness.  Perhaps she and Quentin were simply ill-matched, but he seems to have easily slipped from the older sister to the younger one--barely switching gears in the process.


1184 - Jail - Daphne comes to see Quentin and sadly says, I can't see you anymore--there, I said it, I didn't know how I would, but I had to. He reaches for her through the bars.  Please don't, she says, drawing back--she loves you, Joanna loves you very much.  Joanna and I were through before I went to sea, he says.  No you weren't, protests Daphne, moving away from him.  Are you telling me what I feel? he demands.  You would still feel the same way if it weren't for me, she says--I should never have come to Collinwood, I should never have gone to work for you.  If you hadn't, he says, reaching for her, I would have regretted it for the rest of my life.  Please don't talk to me that way, she begs, I can't listen to it.  Joanna will be all right, he assures her.  She won't, says Daphne--Joanna will never be all right without you.  Are you willing to sacrifice us to prove that? asks Quentin.  I don't feel the same way about you anymore, she says--I'm sorry, I don't, that's what I'm trying to tell you.  What? he asks, disbelieving--you'll have to wait until I get out of jail.  That has nothing to do with what I'm going to do, she says--I'm going to marry Gerard Stiles.  Quentin gazes at her, stunned.

Gerard Stiles? repeats Quentin--you love me, just what made you change?  I don't know myself, says Daphne, you don't know the hold he has over me--when he looks into my eyes, I feel he knows me.  And I know you, too, says Quentin, and I know I won't let you marry Gerard--you're going to at least wait until I get out of this place, give me a chance to divorce Samantha--and I am going to do that.  We could never be happy now, insists Daphne, shaking her head.  When's the last time you talked to Joanna? asks Quentin.  Talked to Joanna?--about an hour ago, says Daphne.  And that was right after she visited me this afternoon, he says--did she tell you what I told her?--didn't she tell you that I told her I love you.  Oh, Quentin, you shouldn't have done that, protests Daphne.  Why do you want me to lie? he asks, why do you think she didn't tell you?  I don't know, says Daphne, it was such a shock to her, and she loves you so very much.  And I love you, he says, framing her face in his hands--doesn't that mean anything?  Yes it does, she says, but...  But what? he asks, moving away from her--I really can't believe what's happening--I know you better than Gerard does--what did he do to make you change so much?  If I could explain it, I would, she says quietly.  You've got to promise me you won't do anything until I get out of this place, he insists.  I can't promise that, she says.  You've got to! he says--the trial is going to be over soon, they haven't proven me guilty of witchcraft--they have only one witness left, Mordecai Grimes, and what can he testify?--that his cattle died and he's going to try to blame me--that's nothing!--I'm going to be free soon, and Joanna will leave.  Do you really think that can solve the problems between us? she asks.  I'll MAKE it solve the problems, he says intensely--just promise me you won't do anything until the trial is over--just wait, that's all I'm asking.  Daphne looks up at him, her eyes searching his face.

The Grimes residence - Mordecai, shaking a paper in his hand, tells Jeremy, Dawson doesn't know what he's talking about.  Dawson's your hero, Father, says Jeremy--what can he possibly do wrong?  Mind your tongue when you talk to me, orders Grimes, the good Lord sent me an ungrateful, unloving son--Dawson says he doesn't know whether I should come to court or not--he says he doesn't know whether my testimony would be damning enough--they've given up--they're going to let that warlock go free!  Jeremy grins--if they acquit Quentin, then he isn't a warlock, he says.  He's put a spell on Charles Dawson, insists Grimes.Oh, Father, chides Jeremy.  If Mr. Dawson don't want my testimony, says Grimes, there are others who do--people higher up than him!  Who, Father? asks Jeremy.  You think I'd tell you, says Grimes, knowing how you feel about that warlock--when I was a boy, we knew the difference between right and wrong, we...  Jeremy, angry, doesn't stick around to listen, prepares to leave.  Where are you going? asks Grimes. Out, says Jeremy, throwing on his cape, because if I stay here any longer, I'll...  You'll do what? demands Grimes.  I don't want to find out myself, says Jeremy, and exits.  Don't stay out late, you hear? demands Grimes, shouting at the closed door--don't go tom-catting around the village, or I'll hear about it!--you see, Mr. Dawson...he re-reads the note.

Carrie, flowers in her hair, waits for Jeremy in the woods.  When he shows up, she says, I didn't think you were coming.  Carrie, he says.  I was going to go back to Collinwood, she says.  I'll accompany you there tonight, he says.  No, she says.  I would have, he says, stepping closer--I would have.  They gaze into each other's eyes, his arms around her.  You shouldn't be holding me, it's wrong, she protests.  You're very old-fashioned, he says.  You shouldn't criticize me for it, she says.  Of course I should, he says, because you have to get over it.  Why can't you like me the way I am? she asks.  I do like you, you know I do, he says, I like you a lot.  You have a funny way of showing it, she says--you ask me to sneak out when I'm supposed to be in the house, you ask me to lie. You know it's the only time we can see each other, he says.  There should be another time, during the day, she says.  I can't, he says, it's not because I'm afraid of my father, I have work to do--chores--something, during the day, I want to see you so much--see the sun shining on your hair--he touches her hair, and she moves out of his reach--now what did I say wrong?  Nothing, she says.  Why did you turn away then? he asks.  Because you always want to know what I'm feeling, she says.  Of course I do, he says.  But sometimes you can't, she says, sometimes...  "A girl has got to have her secrets?" he asks--"I don't believe that--you've been listening to Mrs. Flora Collins again."  And what's wrong with that? asks Carrie--you just want me to listen to you.  Yes, he admits.  But sometimes you're wrong, she says.  Not about you, he says--moving in close.  They kiss, once, then merge for a longer one.

Daphne returns to Collinwood.  When Gerard meets her, she avoids his gaze.  I see you didn't want to see me, he says, that's quite obvious--you were hoping I wouldn't be waiting for you, yet you knew I would be here--you see, my dear, I know everything about you still--why don't we go into the drawing room?  I don't want to talk tonight, she says.  You haven't answered my question about whether or not you'll marry me, he reminds her.  She is silent.  I was hoping you'd reach a decision before going to Quentin, he says.  She looks at him, startled--how did you know I went to see Quentin? she asks.  When will you stop being surprised at what I know? he asks--and I'll tell you something else--something you're going to say to me; 'I'm sorry, Gerard, I will not marry you--I don't know my feelings--Quentin has convinced me not to--the trial may be over tomorrow but I still don't know'--isn't that your little speech?  Yes, she admits. I'm sorry, my dear, he says, turning her around to face him, that you won't accept me--but I have a feeling that deep, deep down in your heart, you know you will.  I don't know, she says, I don't know how I feel!  You will, he assures her, caressing her hair, you will--he kisses her, and she responds.

Quentin paces his cell, looking a real wreck.  Gerard enters.  Well, well, well, says Quentin sarcastically, what an unexpected visit--I didn't really think you'd have the nerve to come here.  Quentin, says Gerard, I've come to tell you that I am in love with Daphne.  You were in love with Samantha, too, points out Quentin bitterly (as were you, once), before I got back to Collinwood.  I only felt sorry for Samantha, says Gerard, I thought we could share a life together.  My life? asks Quentin--that's what you want, isn't it?--that's what you've always wanted.  Quentin, chides Gerard, acting hurt, shaking his head.  You've almost got it all, haven't you? asks Quentin softly--Collinwood, the fortune...  The estate reverts back to you when you are free, Gerard reminds him.  If I am free, and will I be? asks Quentin.  I certainly think so, says Gerard.  I doubt it when I look at you, says Quentin--Barnabas and Desmond tried to warn me about you, and I wouldn't listen to them--but now this about Daphne--and I asked you to watch out for her, didn't I?  He's poking his head through the bars, his voice dangerous and soft.  I should have controlled my emotions, says Gerard, I tried...  I don't think you have emotions! says Quentin--human emotions, at least!  What do you mean? asks Gerard.  You have a plan, don't you, you're very smart, says Quentin--you believe me, I am not going to let you marry Daphne, because I know what her life would be like. And will you prevent that? asks Gerard.  I would kill you first, vows Quentin.  I can't believe those words came out of your mouth--my very best friend, says Gerard, feigning disbelief quite well.Quentin bursts into laughter and says, "What hypocrisy--get out of here!--I don't want to look at you."  I came here to tell you, says Gerard, or to try to make you understand, that falling in love is a voluntary (I think he means involuntary) thing--if it is a crime, then I am guilty of that--but that is the only thing I am guilty of--he leaves.  Quentin sits down, covering his head with his hands.

Woods - Jeremy leads Carrie home.  You must not come any farther, she warns.  Of course I'll come farther, he says, I'm taking you into the house.  Please, she begs.  It's a night to storm the citadel! He insists.  Then they'll know I've been out, she protests.  It's time they knew, it's time everyone knew! he says grandly--I'm willing--are you?  She nods; he kisses her.  The enter Collinwood together.  He looks around--I feel quite at home here, he says.  Go, she urges, before someone comes.  A door opens; standing there is Mordecai Grimes!  Jeremy! cries Carrie.
Good evening, Father, Jeremy greets his pop.  Mordecai puts on a tall, ridiculous looking hat and asks his son, what are you doing in this house?  I could ask you the same question, points out Jeremy.  You're seeing HER, says Mordecai, pointing at Carrie, who is dreadfully upset--one of THEM--that's where you've been going nights!--trying to get you on their side--but they won't do it, you'll have no part of their witchcraft!  Mr. Grimes! scolds Carrie.  We're leaving, now, insists Mordecai, who tries to push his son along.  Jeremy won't budge. YOU may be, says Grimes Junior.  You're coming with me! shouts Mordecai.  No I'm not, says Jeremy, not until I say good night.  Stay away from him, Grimes orders Carrie--stay away from him with your spells--you'll be in the dock with Quentin Collins, where you belong--where you all belong!  Jeremy, go with him, please, begs Carrie.  Listen to her, says Mordecai--say goodbye--for the last time.  Good NIGHT, Carrie, says Jeremy.  I wouldn't have come here at all if it weren't for Mr. Stiles, says Mordecai--and I'm glad I did, because I'm going to stop you two if it's the last thing I do!  He rushes past Jeremy and out the door.  Jeremy, try to make him understand, pleads Carrie.  I'll try, promises young Grimes.

2:20 - Grimes home - Mr. Grimes, says Gerard, I heard you were at Collinwood earlier looking for me--and that you left Carrie Stokes in quite a state.  No better than she deserved, insists Mordecai, living in that house--that place of corruption.  It isn't corrupting me, points out Gerard.  So I heard from our friend, Lamar Trask, says Grimes.  Naturally, says Gerard, in the affair of this witchcraft trial, I would like my public appearance to be that of neutrality.  Trask told me you was going to speak to Charles Dawson--convince him I ought to testify at the trial tomorrow, says Grimes.  Yes, agrees Gerard, I thought that would be good--however, I don't believe your testimony would be strong enough--it just so happens that about an hour ago, I was going through Quentin's lab and found a certain piece of evidence someone overlooked--evidence I'm sure Dawson can use to get the verdict of guilty!  Mordecai smiles--which he ought to get, yes, he says smugly.  However, says Gerard, I do not wish to abandon this neutrality, and so I was wondering, tomorrow, when you testify, if somehow you could incorporate this special evidence into your testimony--without reference to me, of course.  If it will help to hang that warlock, I'll do it, Grimes grins.  Gerard chuckles--you're a very agreeable man, he says--thank you--right now, I'd like you to write a little note to Mr. Dawson.  He don't know nothing about this? says Grimes.  Unfortunately not, says Gerard--you see, I would write it myself, but I've done something to my hand--he shows Grimes his bandaged left hand.  I'll write it, Grimes assures him, and send it by my son tonight.  You must realize this note could be used as evidence in the trial, says Gerard, so my name should not appear anywhere, you understand.  Yes, says Grimes, already sitting down at a table, feather pen in hand, a smile on his face.  Now, says Gerard, dictating, "Dear Mr. Dawson--I would appreciate very much your coming here as rapidly as you possibly can, for I have uncovered certain evidence that will show without reasonable doubt the guilt of Quentin Collins.  Would you please kindly hurry as fast as possible, yours very sincerely, Mordecai Grimes."  Mordecai finishes with a satisfied, "Done!"  Good, says Gerard, it should take Mr. Dawson about an hour in which to get here--in the meantime, I shall go back to Collinwood, get the evidence, and bring it back here--Mr. Grimes, it has been a pleasure working with you and I'm certainly relieved you took all this load off my poor head.  Gerard smiles.  You took a load off my mind, too, Grimes assures him.  Gerard offers to shake his hand and says, until then, sir, good day.  Grimes applies sealing wax to the letter, calling to his son.  Jeremy asks, "What is it now, Father?"  I've got something for you to do, says Grimes--I want you to take this note to the village to lawyer Dawson, give it to him personal, even if you have to wake him up--and be quick about it.  Jeremy looks at the letter, then at his father.  Don't give me any trouble, says Mordecai, just do as I say, and be quick about it.  Jeremy slips into his cloak and leaves.

Carrie paces the foyer at Collinwood, thinking, if I go to Mr. Grimes, tell him it was my fault, if I tried to explain how I feel, it might make a difference--yes, I will go!  She grabs her cloak and exits.  Gerard comes from the kitchen area and closes himself in the drawing room.  He goes to the fire and takes out his witch symbol, holding it up.  "You are a very agreeable man, Mr. Grimes," he says--"it's a shame we must sacrifice you so that Quentin Collins may be beheaded --you are alone, at least you think you are--in the corner, a servant appears--the servant of Judah Zachary, the shadow of death, you do not see him yet, but you will--now, Mr. Grimes, turn and you will see him!  He is coming, growing, you cannot get away!

There, before our (and Mordecai's disbelieving eyes, is the shadow cut-out used in the Leviathan storyline.  The warlock! cries Mordecai, standing, trying to escape it.  Gerard's relentless voice warns him, it's coming for you, growing, coming for you--it's on you!  The shadow engulfs Mordecai, who falls to the floor.  His work done, Gerard grins with satisfaction and says, "Quentin Collins will be found guilty."
Carrie knocks at the door of the Grimes house and enters.  Mr. Grimes! she calls.  She finds on him on the floor, barely, breathing with difficulty.  He pulls himself up and tells Carrie, "Quentin Collins did this"--then falls dead to the floor.

NOTES:  I think we can safely say that this latest stunt of Gerard's will not only put the kibosh on Quentin's hopes for freedom, but the budding romance of Carrie and Jeremy, too.

At least now Quentin has an inkling that Gerard isn't the good friend he seems to be.  I have to give Gerard credit for playing the misunderstood best friend very well.

It was fun to watch Jeremy stand up to his father, but he still ended up capitulating and going home him.  When young Jeremy learns that Mordecai named Quentin as the one who did this, it will not bode well for either Carrie or Quentin.

Things look bleak for Quentin, who is impotent in being able to stop what's going on between Daphne and Gerard.  Is he willing, one wonders, to consider that the power Gerard has over Daphne isn't love but witchcraft?

The shadow returns, to me, at least, the cheesiest of all the DS special effects.  It should only engulf and swallow itself--for all time.

Love, Robin

1178 - Trask's chapel basement - Lamar stands beside the wall behind which Barnabas is imprisoned and tauntingly asks, are you there? (where else could he be?)--"Why don't you answer, is something wrong?"--is it possible he's already dead? wonders Trask, disappointed--no, it's too soon (after a week?)--Mr. Collins, something has occurred to me you might find interesting--shall I tell you?  Yes, murmurs Barnabas weakly.  (A miracle!)  You would like to go on living, wouldn't you? asks Trask.  Yes, says Barnabas through parched lips.Trask grins--good, he says--you're not dead--yet--linger, my friend, while I tell you my fascinating thoughts.  Behind the wall, Barnabas' body sags, his face sallow.  He looks as if he has mere moments left to live.

What has occurred to me, says Trask, is that you COULD go on living--if you were a vampire--what I've done to you couldn't destroy a vampire, a pity for you, a triumph for me--how proud my blessed father would have been.  Go away, whispers Barnabas--"Let me die on peace."  In peace?--never!--my only regret is that it's coming too fast! says Trask--don't you agree?  Barnabas doesn't reply.  (This was an especially cruel exchange; I felt immense pity for Barnabas.)

Quentin sits in his cell, head down.  Gerard, outside the cell, says, it's like a nightmare to think Desmond was involved in witchcraft.  He's no more guilty than I am, insists Quentin, and you know it.  Of course he isn't, says Gerard--we have quite enough money that we can buy anything--I'm sure of it--you will be free.  You think I have to buy my freedom? asks Quentin resentfully.  No, that's not what I mean, says Gerard, we have enough money to afford legal assistance--in the meantime, I suggest you try to get a postponement on the trial--that way we can replace Desmond--I'm sure the judge will find it justifiable. There's nothing JUST about my trial, says Quentin.  Please, understand me, I'm trying to help you, pleads Gerard--if there's anything I can do, I'm here--please believe me.  All right, I'll try, says Quentin with a weak smile.  I'll let you know more when I get information, promises Gerard.  Has there been any news about Barnabas? asks Quentin.Barnabas? says Gerard--Barnabas Collins has vanished  Gerard leaves!  Vanished, thinks Quentin, what's happening to us--one by one, we're being destroyed--do you suppose the spirit of Judah Zachary is at work, carrying out his revenge?--no, I can't believe it, I can't!

Dawson sits in the courtroom, looking over paperwork.  Gerard enters.  I'm glad you came, says Dawson--looking over these papers, I realize there's little reason to drag this out any longer.  Gerard agrees--what is your plan?  We must find positive proof that Quentin is Judah, says Dawson.  Correct, says Gerard, and you have the proof.  No, actually, you have it, corrects Dawson--Judah Zachary's head--all we have to do is find the head in Quentin's lab, and the case will be ended.  Yes, says Gerard unhappily, true.  I expected you to be a little more enthusiastic, says Dawson.  Yes, says Gerard, surely there's another way to put an end to this trial than using the head of Judah Zachary.  There may be, says Dawson, but this is so simple, the time is so right.  What happens when the trial is over--what will they do with the head? asks Gerard--if you were the court, what would you do with it?  Light dawns on Dawson, who says, I see--they'd destroy it.  Exactly, says Gerard--so that is why the head must not be used unless as a last resort.  Trask enters, gleefully greeting both men good evening--if I were allowed to take the stand, Mr. Dawson's working hours would not extend into the night--in fact, the trial would soon be over.  I understand your enthusiasm, says Dawson, and in less than 12 hours, you'll get to prove your point--tomorrow morning, Mr. Trask, you will be called upon to testify.  Tomorrow, exults Trask, good!--I think you shall find it to be a most significant testimony.  Yes, says Dawson, rather cynically, we've discussed it--if you gentlemen will excuse me--he gathers up his things and leaves, bidding them good night.  You're rather cheerful, remarks Gerard, that's not the usual you, is it? (LOL!)--are you contemplating tomorrow's trial?  Much more than that, says Trask, gleeful--I have the great pleasure to report to you that Barnabas Collins is dead! Gerard grins with delight.

Are you sure? asks Gerard.  Absolutely, says Trask.  Where, how? asks Gerard.  I'm afraid I can tell you nothing more--Barnabas Collins is dead! says Trask, so be it!  How do you know? asks Gerard.  I know, says Trask confidently.  Gerard chides him--that's not the answer I need--I want and need more proof.  My lips are sealed, says Trask, I came only to share my joy with you, not my information.  Why are you so mysterious about this? asks Gerard. (murder!)  My father's disappearance many years ago was mysterious, too, says Trask--it was many years before anyone knew the truth--so it shall be with the disappearance of Barnabas Collins!

Courtroom - Quentin stands before the judges, requesting "a postponement of my trial until legal counsel can be found on my behalf."  Dawson objects.  How can you possibly object to that? demands Quentin.  If this man is indeed involved in the practice of witchcraft, that time could very well be used to our detriment, says Dawson.  I object to that, says Quentin, I am not involved with witchcraft!  Judge Vail bangs his gavel and demands order in the courtroom.  Quentin apologizes--this situation is beyond the realm of my experience--therefore, I do ask for a postponement so I can find someone to help me.  I grant your request, agrees Vail--you have until one PM to find representation.  One o'clock today? demands Quentin, incredulous--that's only three hours!  I am quite aware of that, says Judge Vail--in the event you are unable to find representation, there are two choices open for you--the court is prepared to appoint an attorney to represent you, someone you approve of, and your other alternative is to represent yourself.  Does the court have someone in mind for this appointment? asks Quentin.  Silas Graham, says Judge Vail.  Quentin repeats the name, an angry shout--I'm familiar with the name, and I won't have that man represent me!  May the prosecution know your objections to Mr. Graham? asks Dawson.  You certainly may, yells Quentin, everybody in this court knows that Silas Graham is incompetent and has a notorious reputation--I'd sooner represent myself!  And you'd be more qualified than Silas Graham? scoffs Dawson.  I do indeed, says Quentin.  I advise you not to make this decision in haste, says Vail--you have until one to think this over more carefully--the court is recessed until one.  He bangs his gavel.

Gerard visits Quentin's cell--I heard about the postponement and the judge's decision--there's not enough time.  Were you able to do anything for me? asks Quentin.  I worked constantly since last we talked, says Gerard, I did everything in my power to try to find a man for the case, but I couldn't find anyone--I looked all over the countryside to find someone to handle this case--but to no avail!  Quentin looks discouraged.

No one willing to take my case, says Quentin--that means they think I'm guilty--at least that's what they meant.  Not necessarily, says Gerard.  Either that, says Quentin, or else they feel the case is so hopeless, they can't get anyone to get me out of it--he sinks down on his cot, saying, "Oh my God!"  I know things don't look too good, says Gerard, but you're not totally defenseless --you know you're innocent--why don't you defend yourself?  I don't know anything about the law, says Quentin, even if I did, I'm so involved in this case, I wouldn't do justice to myself.  You must, insists Gerard.  You know, you have a lot of hope and a lot of faith, says Quentin, and I need both of them very badly.  If there's anything I can do, you know I'll be here, says Gerard.  I wish I could think of something myself, says Quentin.  You will, Gerard assures him--listen, I have some work to do--I'll do everything I can for you, believe me--believe me.  He leaves.  Quentin sits down on the cot, banging his head with his fist in frustration.

Dawson paces, waiting for Gerard, who appears, smiling, and announces, "Well, he's all yours."  What happened? asks Dawson.  Nothing, says Gerard.  You found no one? asks Dawson.  Of course not, says Gerard, he's been in prison, and he asked me to look out for him--so I combed the countryside looking for an attorney, but to no avail.  What a pity, says Dawson mockingly, have you told him?  I told him, brags Gerard.  And what was his reaction? asks Dawson.  He was very very depressed says Gerard--I'm afraid he's going to be quite ineffectual in court, defending himself--so today is the day for the kill, Charles--it's up to you.I assure you, says Dawson, grinning, I'll handle it well.  I have no doubts, says Gerard--I can't wait for the court to convene at one o'clock.

1:00 - Dawson enters the courtroom.  Judge Vail bangs his gavel, calling the court to order in the case of the State vs. Quentin Collins.  Dawson asks to be provided with the name of his new adversary.  Judge Vail reminds Quentin, the court was recessed in order for you to find new counsel--were you successful, and if so, will you give me the name of the man?  Due to the fact there's no one here with me, says Quentin, it's quite apparent I was unable to find representation, therefore, under the circumstances, "Much to my regret, I shall have to speak for myself."  Charles barely suppresses a smile.

I find it almost impossible to believe that the defendant has not been able to rouse the conscience of SOME attorney, SOMEWHERE, says Dawson.  I also find it very hard to believe, agrees Quentin, but nevertheless, it happens to be true.  I find that in itself makes a very strong statement about the defendant and about this entire case, Your Honor, says Dawson--no one will come forth in his behalf!--thus far, only one man has seen fit to defend Quentin Collins--his own cousin, Desmond Collins, who even at this moment awaits his own trial on witchcraft--what could be more obvious?  Quentin rises--I don't know quite how to say this, he says, but I do suspect those last remarks should be stricken from the court records.  Judge Vail agrees wholeheartedly--Mr. Dawson, you were out of order!--Mr. Collins, is there any possibility that in the near future, you might find representation?  I'm not at liberty to say so at the moment, replies Quentin, who settles in the defendant's box.  Call your first witness, Mr. Dawson, orders the judge.  Lamar Trask, calls Dawson.  Trask, sworn in, takes the witness stand.  Does the name Lorna Bell mean anything to you? asks Dawson.  She was an acquaintance of the late Roxanne Drew, says Trask, and came to pay her respects to Roxanne one night at the Trask Chapel.  Was she alone that night in the chapel?  No, she was not, says Trask--the defendant, Quentin Collins, was with her.  Did she and Quentin leave together?  I did not actually see them leave together, says Trask, but I did hear her say she would meet him later.  And when was the next time you saw Lorna Bell?  Later that evening, at the Trask Chapel, says Trask, only this time, she was dead.  And how had she died?  She was murdered, says Trask.  And were there any visible marks on the body?  She had the devil's mark on her forehead.  By the devil's mark (Dawson shows him the drawing of the circle with a slash through it) do you mean this?  Yes, that's the mark, says Trask.  Dawson shows the judges the paper--I want to introduce this pagan symbol known as the devil's mark, he says--Mr. Trask, have you ever seen this mark again after seeing it on Lorna Bell's forehead?  Yes, says Trask, that same night, I saw it on a ring Quentin Collins was wearing.  And is it or is it not true that the same mark was next found on the body of Randall Drew?  Correct, says Trask.  And did you or did you not see the defendant, Quentin Collins, standing over the body of Randall Drew?  Yes I did, says Trask, Randall was supposed to meet me that evening.  Will you tell the court the purpose of that meeting, please.  Randall was convinced witchcraft was being practiced at Collinwood, says Trask, he and I were going to take our information to the authorities.  And did he think this witchcraft was being practiced by the defendant, Quentin Collins?  Quentin rises--I object! He says.  The judge bangs his gavel--sustained, he says--I remind you, Mr. Dawson, that the witness cannot testify as to what a deceased person might have believed or not believed.  Do you know of any other evidence of the defendant's penchant for the supernatural? asks Dawson.  I should like to get back to the matter of Lorna Bell, says Trask, what I told you was not the end of it--it's a well-known fact that the defendant's own father, Daniel Collins, God rest his soul, had a vision, in which he saw Lorna Bell murdered by the defendant.  Quentin objects--my father was very sick during that time, and frequently had hallucinations.  The court wants to hear about this vision, insists Vail--overruled.  The vision occurred in Quentin's lab, explains Trask, on the stairway into time.  Clarify that for the court, says Dawson.  The defendant has constructed a stairway which he claims can transport a human being into the past or future, says Trask.  Then Quentin Collins has supernatural powers over time itself? asks Dawson, as the judges react with interest to this information.  I don't know whether he has such powers, says Trask, but I do know that such an experiment is contrary to the laws of nature--it goes against God's will! (oh, give it a rest, Trask, murdering a man goes against God's will, too!)  And was it not on this stairway that Daniel Collins had a vision during which he witnessed the slaying of Lorna Bell at the hands of Quentin Collins?  That is correct, says Trask.  Your Honor, says Quentin, rising from his seat, I submit that if any of this were true, I'd have been a very stupid man to let my father see that vision.  Not so stupid at all, says Dawson--at that time, I believe you were the chief beneficiary of your father's will--I say you intentionally caused him to have that vision, knowing of his weak heart, knowing such a vision would cause him to drop dead on the spot!  That is a lie! cries Quentin.  The judge bangs for order--Mr. Dawson, your last remark will be stricken from the record--continue.  Dawson: Do you know anything about the strange occurrences that took place on the property of Mordecai Grimes?  Yes, Quentin Collins has long wanted to buy the Grimes property, says Trask, but Mordecai had said he would refuse to sell as long as he was alive.  What happened then?  Mordecai's cattle were mysteriously stricken, says Trask, many of them died--I believe a spell was cast over them.  By Quentin Collins? asks Dawson.  Quentin objects--there is a difference between what a man believes and what a man knows.  I know for a fact that you threatened Grimes, says Trask, said he'd be sorry if he didn't sell you that land.  I didn't threaten anyone, says Quentin, but you believe me that I am about to!  (Oh, Quentin, no, don't threaten a witness!)  Mr. Collins, says Dawson, I think you'd find it beneficial to your cause if you'd try to control your temper.  The judge bangs his gavel--Mr. Dawson, if there's any advice to be given to the defendant, the court will be most happy to do so--the reference to a spell being cast will be stricken, for the moment. Dawson: You say you know for a fact he threatened Mordecai Grimes?  Yes, says Trask--Grimes told me.  Quentin objects--hearsay evidence!  The judge agrees--either the witness DID hear that threat, or he didn't.  Did you hear the threat? asks Dawson.  No, admits Trask, but Mordecai wouldn't lie to me, he's a fine, upstanding, God-fearing man.  I'm sure he is, says Vail, and obviously, if he heard this threat, if it were made, then he will testify when and if he takes the stand!  And I assure you, that Mordecai Grimes will take the stand, says Dawson--thank you, Mr. Trask--I have no further questions.  Mr. Collins, do you want to cross-examine the witness? asks Vail.  Hesitantly, Quentin rises--I certainly would, he says--to my advantage, I think the cross-examination would be best handled by my counsel.  I was under the impression you were unable to find counsel, says the judge.  Then I gave the court the wrong impression, says Quentin--approaching the bench--therefore, I apologize--but I have found the man to handle my case--but it was impossible for him to be with me when the court convened (Trask exchanges stunned looks with Dawson)--and as the cross-examination is so desperately important, I ask the court to consider a brief recess while we await the arrival of my new counsel.  Dawson objects--this is a trick on the part of the defendant that can cause no good for anyone!  There is no trickery on my part, Quentin assures him--I am on trial for my life and believe I deserve competent, reliable counsel--I urge the court to consider a brief recess while we await the arrival of this man.  The doors swing open; Barnabas appears.  "That won't be necessary, Quentin," he says, looking remarkably handsome and fit, "I am here!"Dawson looks stunned; Trask, as if he's going to have a stroke.

NOTES:  Jubilation, consternation, holy cow!  The last time we saw Barnabas, he was hanging in that alcove looking as near to death as a man can--face sallow, eyes sunken, voice barely audible (and a death wish on Trask for taunting him and prematurely announcing his death.  How was Barnabas rescued, and by whom?  I once wrote a filler story about how Julia and Valerie saved him, and how the latter literally "loved" Barnabas back to life.  We never do see how this happened, which was intensely frustrating for me.  The other question is, did I miss someone handing Quentin a note while typing busily away--how did he know Barnabas had reappeared and was ready to act as his attorney?  What kind of legal training does Barnabas have to undertake this task?

Poor Quentin is undergoing such a raft of bad luck, yet he still seems to have a shred of belief in Gerard.  Why?  How much more has to go wrong?  Gerard was sure the Collins money would secure Quentin an excellent lawyer, and it would have, for sure, if Gerard had actually bothered seeking one out.

By the way, folks, we are heading pretty rapidly now for the end of 1840.  The eps we're seeing now were shown in December, 1970, and by April 2, 1971, DARK SHADOWS was off the air.  That only leaves three months--one and a half at our current two shows daily--before the series comes to an end.


1179_1180 - A smiling Barnabas enters the courtroom, causing Lamar to literally shake in his boots.  Trask stares at Barnabas in disbelief.  Quentin presents his new attorney, Barnabas Collins.  Dawson objects--this man can't act as counsel for the defense--he's not even a qualified attorney.  I've made a careful study of the law under which this trial is being conducted, says Barnabas, and it clearly states a qualified attorney isn't necessary--any citizen may volunteer his services.  That is correct, says Judge Vail.  And I so volunteer mine, says Barnabas grandly.  Are you prepared to cross-examine the witness? asks Vail.  I request a transcript of the witness' testimony for the prosecution, says Barnabas.  By all means, agrees the judge, as Trask tries to recover from his astonishment.  Looking as if he's about to hurl, he says, I can't continue my testimony.  I beg your pardon? says the judge.  Dawson gazes warningly at Trask and darts forward--Mr. Trask,  is something the matter?  I'm not well, falters Trask, I have a severe pain in my chest, I think I should consult a doctor.  In view of the witness' condition, Dawson tells the judges, I urge you to release him from further testimony.   Is counsel asking that the witness not be cross-examined? queries Barnabas.  It's obvious Mr. Trask is a very sick man, says Dawson.  The defense must be given the right of cross-examination, Mr. Dawson, says Vail, the question is when?  The defense would welcome a brief postponement in order to fully acquaint myself with the case, says Barn.  The request is granted, says Judge Vail--court is adjourned until 10 AM tomorrow.  That might not be enough time for my witness, protests Dawson.  I am assuming, says Vail, that he will see a doctor between now and then; if his condition becomes more serious, we'll discuss that when court convenes tomorrow.  He bangs his gavel.

Quentin sits in his cell, rises, walks across it.  Barnabas enters.  I don't understand, says Quentin, I got the note from Valerie saying you had returned--from where?  Lamar Trask held me prisoner, explains Barnabas haltingly, I didn't think I was going to get out, but finally Julia and Valerie found out where I was.  Trask held you prisoner? demands Quentin.  Yes, says Barn, he forced me at gunpoint into an alcove in his chapel, and he bricked up the alcove and left me there to die.  Why didn't you tell the judge what he had done? asks Quentin.  I chose not to, says Barn-- the fact is, I have no intention of turning Trask over to the authorities.  Quentin gazes at him, astonished.
You're telling me after what Trask did to you, you're willing to let him go free? asks Quentin.  For the moment, yes, says Barnabas.  In heavens name, why? asks Quentin.  You're on trial for your life--that is the important consideration for us right now, points out Barnabas--I can tell you that Trask has an act of revenge.  For what? asks Quentin.  The death of his father, says Barnabas.  I don't understand it, says Quentin.  I must ask you to trust me, says Barnabas, I will tell you everything in time, but right now I want to concentrate on the trial.  Quentin agrees--I've always respected your judgment.  Papers in hand, Barnabas says, I've read Trask's testimony, and if it stands, you're going to have a disaster--I want you and I to go over this in detail, and find out how it can be broken down tomorrow.

10:40 - Lamar picks up his clock from the mantel, looks at it, distractedly puts it down, paces back and forth.  Barnabas enters--good evening, he says.  Get away from here, orders Trask--leave me alone.  Aren't you wondering how I got out of your cellar prison? asks Barnabas.  I don't have to wonder, gasps Trask, I know--it was with Quentin's help--you and he have always been in league with one another--he used his sorcery to free you--I know Satan's work when I see it--you should be dead now!  "Maybe I am dead," suggests Barnabas.  What? asks Trask, what are you saying?  Consider the possibility, says Barnabas, moving in closer--you put me down in that basement to die--perhaps I did die and I've come back to haunt you for the rest of your days and nights!  Shaking his head furiously, Trask says, no, it's not possible, I don't believe it.  By your simple way of thinking, anything is possible, says Barnabas.  Ducking away, Trask orders--get out of my sight--get away from me!I have no intentions of staying long, Barnabas assures him, just long enough to tell you I have every intention of doing something to you in revenge for what you've done to me--but not now--I will let you wait. . .and wonder. . .and suffer, knowing your time is coming, but not quite knowing when--I'll see you tomorrow in court, Mrs. Trask.  Smiling, Barnabas leaves.  Trask gulps in horror and covers his face with a shaking hand.  (This was SUCH a great scene, I played it over twice.  Barnabas is so quietly menacing in his threat.)

Courtroom - Dawson paces, nervous, worried.  Trask enters.  What's wrong? asks Dawson.  Trask doesn't reply.  Dawson, annoyed, reminds him, I sent you a message asking you to be here early--speak up, what is on your mind?  I won't appear on the witness stand again this morning, says Trask breathlessly.  Dawson stares at him--are you insane, your testimony is vital to our case!  I've given my testimony, says Trask, moving his hands nervously--I refuse to be questioned by Barnabas Collins.  You can't refuse, protests Dawson--if you do, your entire testimony for our side will be stricken from the record--is that what you want?  I only know I will not be questioned, insists Trask--I have my reasons.  Yes, which was very well demonstrated yesterday, says Dawson, when you pretended to be sick on the witness stand--what is wrong?--tell me what you're so frightened of!  I can tell you no more, insists Trask.  Dawson grabs him by the lapels--listen! he cries--you are going to face Barnabas Collins whether you like it or not--you stop with all this, Trask--you're the cause for all this hue and cry about witchcraft--if you desert us now, the entire prosecution's case is destroyed!

Flora sips a cup of tea at Rose Cottage.  Barnabas enters--I'm sorry to disturb you so early, he says, but I want to find out everything I can before the trial resumes.  You're not disturbing me in the least, she says, I'm so glad you're all right--whatever did happen to you?--we've all been so worried!  I had to leave town unexpectedly, says Barnabas, sitting down--I didn't even have time to tell Julia and Valerie.  So much has happened since you've been gone, reveals Flora--they arrested Desmond for witchcraft, on the most ridiculous evidence--they've produced the journal of Judah Zachary, that man who was beheaded for witchcraft---imagine a head in 1692--it was here in this house, I knew it was evil--and they say it possessed Desmond.  I read the transcript of the trial, says Barnabas, and I know all about Desmond, and I'm here as much to help him as Quentin.  Can you free my son? begs Flora, I'm so worried, I can't think clearly!  She wrings her hands.  Desmond was implicated in this trial because of his association with Quentin, explains Barnabas--if we can prove Quentin's innocence, we can prove Desmond's--the authorities will be forced to release him.  What can I do to help? asks Flora.  Answer some questions, says Barnabas--think back to the time Desmond returned with the severed head of Judah Zachary--did he actually tell you he'd brought it back for Quentin?  I'm afraid he did, says Flora, making a face.  Before he could ever give it to Quentin, it disappeared, says Barnabas, didn't it?  As far as I know, she replies.  Who besides you and Desmond in this house definitely saw the head? asks Barnabas.  Leticia testified that she saw it, says Flora, which is the first I knew about it.  In other words, says Barnabas, someone else could have seen the head also?  What do you mean? she asks.  Gerard could have known about that head and also not wanted to tell anyone, points out Barnabas.  Are you implying Gerard is secretly involved in all this? she asks.  (Duh, Flora, Desmond's told you that before.)  Yes, says Barnabas, I have every reason to believe he is, but can't prove it--what about Trask?--how did he and Gerard become such good friends?  I really don't know, says Flora.  When Gerard was living here, asks Barnabas, Trask made several visits to him, didn't he?  Yes, says Flora, I suppose they really became good friends the night they were discussing Lamar's father's disappearance--yes, that was quite an eventful night for both of them.  Eventful how? asks Barnabas.  Gerard has certain psychic abilities, you know, says Flora, and he demonstrated them for Lamar, who was very impressed.Flora, says Barnabas urgently, I want you to tell me everything about that night in as much detail as possible.  She thinks hard.

Court - Judge Vail bangs the gavel--Mr. Dawson, he says, the court will listen to a motion for postponement in case your witness is unable to testify.  The witness has been to a doctor, says Dawson, and declared physically fit to testify.  Mr. Collins, you may cross-examine, says Vail--Mr. Trask, return to the stand.  Nervously, Trask takes his place.  In your testimony yesterday, begins Barnabas, you stated that the defendant frequently indulged himself in matters of the occult--is that true?  Yes, replies Trask.  In your opinion, is active participation in the occult tantamount to dealing with witchcraft?  I believe that a person who deals in the occult can easily be lead into the practice of witchcraft, yes, says Trask in a shaky voice.  He can't seem to look at Barnabas, who then asks, "Then you'd have to include yourself, wouldn't you?"   I beg your pardon? asks Trask.  I object! shouts Dawson.  Clarify your line of questioning, Judge Vail.  It has been established previously in this trial, continues Barnabas, that raising a spirit from the dead in a seance, is admitting a seance experience--now, I want you to tell the court, did you or did you not participate in a seance, the purpose of which by your own admission at the time, was to communicate with your dead father? Trask's face goes pasty white; Dawson looks pissed, Quentin smiles.

Trask's face twitches.  The court is waiting for your answer, says Barnabas--did you or did you not take part in such a seance?  Trask turns to Dawson and cries, "He's trying to brand ME a witch!"  The witness is right, says Dawson--the counsel's line of questions is irrelevant!  On the contrary, says Barnabas, I submit it is very relevant, and insist upon the question being answered.  Vail directs Trask--answer the question.  Dawson sits down.  Yes, says Trask.  Yes, repeats Barnabas, you did participate in a seance--you were trying to establish communication with the dead--is that correct?  Trask, barely able to breathe, admits, it's correct.  Were you successful? asks Barnabas.We heard my father's voice warning us of the evil around us, answers Trask.  Quentin grins.  So, continues Barnabas, you did take part in a seance and communicated with the dead--does that mean you are or could be a witch?  Dawson rises to his feet: OBJECTION!  The defense is merely asking a question, says Barnabas, not making an accusation.  Judge Vail overrules the objection--answer, Mr. Trask.  No, it does not mean I'm a witch, says Trask defiantly.  Of course it doesn't, says Barnabas, as Quentin looks on with enjoyment--anymore than the same experience would mean the defendant is a witch--I ask the court to wipe out all references to seances, the occult and witchcraft.  All such references will be stricken from the record, says Judge Vail--continue, Mr. Collins.  I have no further questions at this time, says Barnabas.  I should like to re-examine the witness, says Dawson.  Proceed, says Vail.  For the record, says Dawson, the prosecution has never contended a seance, in and of itself, constitutes an act of witchcraft--however, I hope the court would agree that a means other than a seance to summon the dead DOES constitute an act of witchcraft.  I'm afraid I'm going to have to ask you to be more explicit, says Judge Vail.  I intend to, says Dawson--Mr. Trask, do you know of an example of Quentin Collins' strange powers over the dead?  Barnabas objects.  Overruled, says Vail--the witness may answer if he knows of such an incident.  I do indeed, says Trask eagerly, anxious to recoup, I was witness to such an incident.  Describe it to the court, says Dawson.  It happened last week while this very trial was in progress, says Trask--Quentin Collins wrote a letter to the spirit of a dead woman named Joanna Mills.  Quentin eyes Trask sharply.  The letter was delivered to a designated spot in the woods by Daphne Harridge, continues Trask, left in an oak tree for the spirit to find and answer--I saw the spirit appear and leave a written response.  And what was your reaction? asks Dawson.  I waited until the spirit had gone and I took the letter the spirit left in the tree, says Trask.  Dawson picks up a letter from the desk and asks, is this the letter you saw the spirit deliver?  Barnabas bounds from his seat, objecting--the letter counsel has could have been written by anyone, he insists.  Overruled, says Vail--the witness may examine the letter.  Dawson smiles at Barnabas, who takes his seat.  Yes, says Trask, this is it.  Thank you, says Dawson--be seated.  Dawson offers a sketch of a young woman named Joanna Mills into evidence--a self-portrait made while the woman was an inmate in an asylum--the sketch is signed and I believe you will find the signature corresponds with the signature in the letter Mr. Trask just identified.  The judges examine the letter and sketch.  Dawson says, there can be no doubt the sketch and letter were created by the same hand--that of Joanna Mills--I now would like to submit this certified document--a death certificate for Joanna Mills!  I object to the introduction of this letter, says Barnabas--no one saw Joanna Mills write it, it could have been written before she died.  Mr. Collins, says Dawson, Mr. Trask has just testified under oath that he saw the spirit deliver the letter!  Does he know he saw a spirit? asks Barnabas.  It's pointless for you to keep on arguing any further in this matter, says Judge Vail--the court believes the prosecution has made its point.  Then I submit, Your Honor, says Dawson, that the prosecution has also proved its case--the ability to rouse the dead can only be attributed to the process of witchcraft; I therefore move that the tribunal hand down a verdict in favor of the prosecution.  The court is willing to consider such a motion, agrees Vail.  The court cannot do it in good conscience! asserts Barnabas, when the defense hasn't even presented its case yet.  Sit down, Mr. Collins orders Judge Vail--and abide by whatever this tribunal decides.  The judges begin to look everything over.  Quentin assures Barnabas--it's all right, don't worry, I'm just surprised Dawson didn't introduce the letter earlier than he did.  He can't possibly grant the motion, says Barnabas.  Believe me, I've been here longer than you have--they can do anything they please, says Quentin wryly.  They're ready, says Barnabas.  "The tribunal has considered the prosecution's motion very carefully," intones Judge Vail, "and is ready to render a decision--it is the opinion, of all three judges here present, that the prosecution has..."  A woman dressed in black, looking remarkably like the self-portrait of Joanna Mills, enters the courtroom.  What is the reason for this interruption? he asks.  Quentin's eyes looks like two giant blue marbles about to pop from his head.  "I have come to offer testimony in this trial," the woman says, "my name is Joanna Mills."Everyone, from Dawson to Barnabas to Trask to Quentin gazes at her, incredulous.

NOTES:  Wait a second, isn't this woman dead?  Clearly, most sincerely dead?  How did she show up here?  I heard that Dan Curtis was pushing the writers for a cliffhanger a day, a big one, and it seems they complied to the letter.  Incredible!  Is she an impostor?  Quentin sure seemed to think it was his dead mistress.  What expressions on the men's faces.  With all these shocks, one figures Trask will expire any day now.  Good thing she showed when she did, because it definitely sounded as if the judges were going to convict Quentin of witchcraft.

Mr. Frid has trouble with his lines today, but that scene in the chapel in which he threatened Trask was nothing short of delicious.  You felt the quiet venom in Barnabas, and realize that some of his vampire self is still in his system.  Great stuff.

Barnabas, lawyer, did a pretty good job of discrediting Trask, but Dawson came back full steam ahead, and, until the lady appeared in the courtroom, made Quentin look very guilty once again.  It would have been a riot if they had jailed Trask on witchcraft charges, too, they would have had to expand the jail to accommodate the prisoners!

Love, Robin

1173 -Give me back my letter! demands Daphne, trying to snatch it away.  Never! he proclaims.  You have no right to that, she says, it's mine!  Joanna, is that your name now, my dear? asks Trask.  She again orders him, give it back; they struggle for a moment before he pins her arms behind her back and warns, in due time, you will be called back to testify again at the witchcraft trial--before that, I trust you will be enlightened enough to tell the truth, because I will be there to tell them that you brought this note to the tree.  There's nothing wrong with that! cries Daphne.  And, continues Trask, that it contains an effort by Quentin Collins to contact his dead mistress.  That's not true! cries Daphne.  Because, says Trask, this is their trysting place--their shame was so great, they could not meet publicly, they had to leave messages in this tree!  All during his diatribe, Daphne's been shaking he head--you have no right to do this! she wails.  Renounce the warlock and his evil ways, he says, go back to Collinwood, ponder the sad direction your life has taken--it is not to late to recant and testify against Quentin Collins.  I would never do that! she insists.  You will, says Trask--whether by your choice or not--now leave before I turn you over to the authorities.  She flees, leaving the letter in his hands.

Frantic, Valerie paces the drawing room at the Old House.  When Julia enters, she runs to the door, hoping it's Barnabas.  Her face twists with misery when she sees Julia, who tiredly says, I don't know where to look now.  I am responsible for the trouble Barnabas is going through, laments Valerie, holding herself.  How? asks Julia.  At least when he was still under the curse, he wasn't vulnerable, points out Valerie as Julia hangs up her cloak--at least then he couldn't die as a man dies.  But he would be dead now if it weren't for your removing the curse, Julia reminds her--Gerard would have found him in his coffin and destroyed him, you know that.  And I gave him hope, says Valerie, I made him see the sun again--oh, Julia, if you could have seen his face yesterday!  I did, says Julia.  And his eyes, says Valerie, I should have known that Judah wouldn't let me keep him.  Julia gazes at her sympathetically as Valerie says, yes, you know of Judah and his powers--Barnabas told me of you and Leticia in that tomb, trying to unite the head and body.  How do you know Judah Zachary? asks Julia, surprised.  I have known him a very long time, says Valerie, I met him in my village, near Bedford--I was young, trusting, innocent--that appealed to him--I came under his power and he made me a member of his coven--and then he showed me how to have power over others--it happened so long ago--1692.  Wasn't that the year of his trial? asks Julia.  Yes, he was tried for witchcraft, says Valerie, found guilty and beheaded--and it was MY testimony that convicted him.  Then you must be Miranda, says Julia, the woman the newspapers wrote so much about.  Yes, says Angelique, I was Miranda, the woman Judah Zachary loved--and grew to hate--I can still remember the look on his face when he vowed vengeance on us all--on me--and on all the families of the judges--one of the judges was a Collins.  Yes, I know, says Julia--Amadeus Collins.  And so with Barnabas, says Valerie, Judah has succeeded in ending two old scores--if he has killed him, he has not only killed a Collins, but the man I love.  Judah Zachary was destroyed, Barnabas and I both saw his body, says Julia.  He has possessed the body of someone else! says Valerie--I thought it was Quentin, I wanted Quentin to be beheaded.  It was not Quentin, states Julia.  I know that, says Valerie, Barnabas was going to testify at Quentin's trial--FOR him--if Judah were Quentin, he would do nothing to Barnabas until after the testimony.  If Judah is possessing anyone, it must be Gerard, says Julia.  I suspected him, says Valerie, because he called me Miranda, but he convinced me it was an accident--fool I was, of course, Gerard was at Collinwood when I had the vision--I saw Amadeus Collins as he was in 1692 at the trial, I thought that I had brought him back, but no, it was Gerard who made me have that vision, and Gerard who placed Quentin's face in the flames when I summoned him, Gerard, whose body Judah was possessing--Judah has some plan for me!--and he is waiting to carry it out!--Judah is Gerard!  Isn't there some way you can use your powers to find out where Barnabas is? asks Julia.  I have no powers as a clairvoyant, says Valerie, none at all.  But Barnabas is still alive, I know that! says Julia.  If he is, says Valerie, it's because he enjoys his agony too much to kill him!  I will talk to Leticia, says Julia, she has second sight, perhaps she can find out where he is--yes.  She goes.

Gerard sips a drink in front of the fireplace.  Daphne enters.  Did you place the letter where Joanna could find it? he asks.  No more games, Gerard! insists Daphne angrily--I know you sent your friend Trask there!Trask was there? asks Gerard, amazed.  Yes, he was there, says Daphne, and he has the note now, so if that was your plan, it succeeded!  My plan, says Gerard, as I told...  Yes, your plan! says Daphne--you were the only one who knew Quentin was going to write that note and that I was going to take it to the tree--you were the only one, Gerard--and that means YOU are the enemy--I know that now, and tomorrow, Quentin will know it, too!

Trask comes knocking at Collinwood - Gerard answers and mutters, you shouldn't have come.  I had to see you, says Trask, but you must see this note--it is positive proof that Quentin is in touch with the dead--I must get it to Dawson as soon as possible.  Gerard reads the note--take it back to the tree, he advises.  Why? asks Trask.  This is evidence that Quentin Collins is trying to communicate with the dead, points out Gerard, but isn't it more practical if he is proven successful?  Do you really think the spirit of Joanna Mills will come to the tree? asks Trask.  More than once, says Gerard, twice, in fact--the first time, she will come to receive the letter, the second time will be her reply--but we must give her time--I should say just about an hour--then we'll meet just before 12 o'clock, by the oak tree, we'll hide somewhere--and I guarantee, she will reply.  I can't believe in such things, objects Trask.  This is our only chance, says Gerard, now my friend, think of the great commotion you will have in court, when you bring a letter from a dead woman--give it to Dawson--a letter that says it is addressed to Quentin Collins (Trask is smiling now)--in response to one of his!  The judges would have to declare him guilty immediately, says Trask excitedly--I'll take the letter back to the tree--Gerard, despite your reluctance to come out in the open in the case against Quentin, there is no need for me to say that you have given invaluable service to the cause of righteousness.  He leaves.  Gerard seems to contemplate Trask's stupidity.  Samantha surveys Gerard from the top of the stairs.  She comes down, her face stony.  We are alone, he tells her.  I'm aware of that, she says coolly.  Come to me then, he says, holding out his arms.  No, she says, sweeping past him into the drawing room, where she sits down.  He kneels behind the sofa, places his hands on her shoulders, massaging, and says, "I see you are still thinking."  No, remembering, she says.  Remembering the day Quentin came home? he asks, still massaging--the day you came to Collinwood  and said we would continue--he moves to kiss her ear.  Yes, and you refused, she says.  You would have been far happier, he says, if you had just remembered the days before he returned--he kisses her ear, her throat.  Remembering how cold you were for those last two months, she corrects him.  I will never be that way again, he assures her.  I can't believe you, she says.  He pulls her back against him and says, "I promise--never," and returns to kissing the side of her face.  How easily you say that, she says, do you think one hour can make someone forget everything?  When that hour is as important to us, yes, he says seductively--remember, Samantha, the last hour?--we found out a great deal about one another--more than we ever knew before--he goes in for a big kiss, but she pulls away, leaving him empty-handed.  He rises to his feet and says, I see you are as clever as I am--and just as unscrupulous--sheer brilliance, genius--he sits beside her--for what you tried to do--trying to force Daphne out of the house with those letters.  He touches her face.  I wish Daphne were away from the house, she says--I don't like the way you looked at her at luncheon.  It was merely a friendly look, says Gerard.  It was not a look of friendship, but the look of a man and a woman, says Samantha.  Oh, I desire women who are jealous! he exults, and plants a smooch on her mouth.  She pulls away--I try to fight him, she does, when I'm not with you, I think what a mistake it is for us to be together again.  He kisses her some more, and she seems inclined to let him.  When we're together, he says, you forget.Yes, she says, I do--and she draws away from his next kiss.  He stands and pulls her to her feet--Now, my dear, he says, it is time to go to work--he has his arm around her--I want you to put on a cape.  Joanna's cape? She asks.  Gerard tells her to go to the place where Joanna and Quentin used to meet.  The oak tree, says Sam.  Yes, says Gerard, Trask will have a note there--I want you to get the note and bring it back here.  Why do you want me to do this? she asks.  To destroy Quentin, he tells her.  She grins.  Yes, says Gerard, I want to make it look as though he were working for the spirit world--and you, my dear, will become Joanna's ghost--though not just once, but twice--you will go to the tree, get the note, bring it back here and in her handwriting, that you so well write--write the answer to Quentin's note--then go back to the tree--Lamar and I will wait for you, hidden in a tree near close (?)...  It's too dangerous, says Sam, what if Lamar recognizes me--I won't do it, Gerard, I just won't do it.  You will, my dear, he assures her, pulling her into his arms for another insistent kiss.

There's no fighting you, is there? a smiling Samantha asks Gerard--I will be your ghost tonight--twice--take care how you look at Daphne, I don't want to have any doubts about you.  I'm sure she has enough doubts for the both of you, he says.  She goes upstairs.  Yes, says Gerard, Daphne has doubts about me--that will soon change--he pulls out his witch symbol and holds it up in front of the fireplace.  "Dream, Daphne," he intones, "dream--the dreams that you will forget, that wipe out all doubts--oh, Daphne, think of me now--dream!--things are going to change--your feelings for me will change a great, great deal--now sleep, sleep, Daphne."

Asleep in her room, Daphne dreams:  Gerard is calling to her.  He stands before a mirror, then goes over to the bed.  Daphne enters the room from another door.  I've been waiting for you, he says.  Darling, I couldn't help it, she says, slamming the door behind her and gliding into his arms.  The most important thing is that you've come to me, he says.  I know, she assures him.  He seems standoffish--don't be angry, she begs.  You said you loved me, chides Gerard.  I do, she assures him, holding onto him.  And yet you let everything interfere with it, he complains.  I couldn't help it, she says, I was longer in the village than I expected, but all the way back in the carriage, all I could think about was you--and how empty my life was before I met you.They kiss with passion.  Don't ever leave me, she pleads.  He swings her around and onto the bed--I'll never leave you--I swear it--they kiss over and over.  You know how much my love has changed? he asks her--are you aware?--the love you found hard to recognize at first--are you aware?--oh, Daphne, you hold me now--it's the only thing in the world I ever, ever wanted--please, stay with me, always.

Daphne awakens and sits up, distressed--I must have had the dream again, she says--but why can't I remember it--oh, God, what's happening to me?

Gerard sloppily pours himself a drink and gulps it down.  Daphne comes downstairs and gazes at him in confusion.  She sits by the fire, not saying anything.  You look as though you had a nice nap, he says--did you rest well?--I was thinking of you earlier--perhaps it would be best if you went to Desmond and told him to get prepared for what Trask is going to bring into court.  Yes, you're right, says Daphne, I'll go to Desmond first thing in the morning before he goes to court.  And if you like, I'll be happy to take you there, says Gerard.  How very strange you are, she says seriously, I owe you an apology for doubting you so--of course, you're right, someone must have overheard us in the jail. You believe me now? he asks.  Yes, she says.  Why? he asks.  I don't know, she says, I just feel differently, that's all.  I know how difficult it's become for you, he says, and Quentin asked me to look after you, and I swore I would--if there's something that I can do to comfort you...  Oh Gerard! she cries, springing up as if to grab him, throw her arms around him, but she stops herself--I don't know why...  I do, he says, taking her in his arms, putting her head on his shoulder--you just need a shoulder to rest your head on.  She leans against him, agreeing, I do.  He pats her hair, looking very pleased with himself.

Old House - Julia reports to Valerie, Leticia saw nothing--she cannot see where Barnabas is--it's as if her powers have deserted her.  I must go to Gerard, says Valerie.  No! says Julia, he thinks you're Miranda.  He still thinks I don't know he is Judah Zachary, says Valerie--he was in love with me once, very deeply, a long time ago--I wonder if any love still exists beneath that hatred--I wonder if I might find that love again if I tried.  She smiles hopefully.

Midnight - oak tree - Trask checks--Gerard, he says, the note is gone--I find it difficult to believe a spirit took it, but I placed it there myself.  You're so nervous, I won't imagine any spirit would come around here, remarks Gerard.  What makes you think the spirit will come at midnight? asks Trask   There's only one thing I know, says Gerard, and that is if we stand here talking, no spirit will ever come around.  The leave the area, hiding, watching.  Look! says Trask.  They observe a hooded figure putting a note into the hole in the tree.I wouldn't have believed it if I hadn't seen it myself, says Trask, a spirit moving as if on the wind!--wait until the judge hear this!  Gerard nods.  They return to the tree.  Trask removes the note addressed to Quentin and reads: "Dearest Quentin--why do I still call you that, for you write in a way I don't understand--what have I done wrong for you to accuse me so--is the madness between us to start again?  Joanna."  Well, says Trask, there's no doubt about it now--Quentin Collins is going to be beheaded!

Collinwood - Oh, how beautiful it all was! exults Gerard to Samantha, how really beautiful--to see the expression on his face--"she moves like the wind" he taunts.  What are you talking about? she asks.  Your performance was absolutely brilliant, he praises.  She starts to protest.  Don't be so modest, he chides.  Listen to me! she insists--I wasn't the one you saw--I went to the oak tree, yes, but there wasn't a letter there--I couldn't write an answer--I looked everywhere for you, I didn't know what to do!  Gerard gazes at her--I saw an image, he says.  It wasn't I, says Sam.  They survey each other with astonishment.  Then it must have been . .says Gerard.  "Joanna Mills has come back again!" says Samantha in a disbelieving voice.  The camera focuses on Gerard's eyes.

NOTES:  Is it true?  Has Joanna really returned to haunt everyone?  Keep watching, folks!

Once again, Angelique and Julia work together to try to figure out what has become of Barnabas.  With Leticia unable to help them, and Valerie unable to use her own powers, will they ever learn of his fate--in time to save him?  Will Valerie give herself to Gerard to save Barnabas' life?  She seems prepared to do so.  Too bad Viagra wasn't invented yet, because he sure could use some with all the ladies he's satisfying!

Trask is a buffoon, isn't he?  So easily led, dumb, gullible, the perfect fool for Judah's evil schemes.  You have to admire Gerard's seductive way of getting Samantha to do his bidding.  A few kisses and he has her agreeing to anything, and she was really pissed off at him at first.  He works his romantic wiles on Edith, and Daphne, too, along with the sexy dreams he sends to her.  He is good!


1174_1175 -
What if she's here, in this house? asks Sam, terrified--she is, I can feel her presence--Gerard! she sobs.  Stop being so hysterical, he orders.  But if she's here, wails Sam, she'll come after me, kill me!  Try to get a hold of yourself, urges Gerard, we don't even know if it is Joanna--and besides, why would she want to kill you?  Because...because, hesitates Samantha, Joanna was Quentin's mistress once, he asked for a divorce and I refused, you know that--wouldn't you be frightened?--in leaving those letters, I pretended to be her--she's going to come after me, says Sam, in abject terror.  Someone knocks at the door.  Hysterical, Sam asks, who that could be at this hour?  Ghosts don't knock, dear, he says, and goes to answer the door.  It's Dawson--Mrs. Collins, he says, I'm not here with very good news--I have a court order to search Quentin's laboratory.  I'll go with you, says Sam, I don't know what good it will do you, though.  I'm working on a new and very interesting aspect of the case, says Dawson--your husband's papers interest me very much.  Come along, says Samantha; she escorts Dawson through the kitchen area.  From the doorway, Leticia says to Gerard, "That man--Dawson--he's got death in his eyes!"  What are you doing here so late? he demands.  Leticia continues--when I walked in and saw it, I wanted to go back to Rose Cottage, but I couldn't, not until we talked--I've been thinking about Barnabas Collins--he's been missing two days.  Yes, I know, says Gerard.  And you know where he is, don't you Gerard? questions Leticia.  Are you asking or telling me? he asks.  Asking, really, she says, tell me now, luv, Julia and Valerie are so worried (she begins to caress his face, but he throws her hand off him).  We were both at Rosa Cottage the night Barnabas disappeared, he reminds her--he left, alone, and I stayed with you--I'm getting rather tired of people accusing me of everything--you always come running to me--why do you think I'm so guilty in your eyes?  You've changed, luv, she says, we used to know each other so well--if you do know where Barnabas Collins is, tell me.  If I do, he informs her, I don't care where he is--really, your second sight is beginning to get the best of you!  I'm going only on my intuition now, she says, if you know where Barnabas is, you must tell me--maybe you don't know where he is, but you do know something about Barnabas' disappearance that you're not saying!  He looks at her.  That you're not willing to say! she accuses...all right, Gerard!  She hurries out.

1:10 - Gerard sits on the drawing room sofa, thinking.  Dawson comes out with some papers under his arm and joins him.  I trust you found everything you needed, says Gerard.  I did, says Dawson, and Mrs. Collins saw me find them, she'll be a most willing witness, should I need her--this is quite an interesting discovery.  Of course, says Gerard, I placed it there earlier.  He closes the double doors.  I don't think it wise for us to talk too much in this house, cautions Dawson.  Daphne's in the bedroom, says Gerard, and Samantha knows we are working closely together--oh, yes, a new change of events, Charles, Samantha and I are back together again, but that's neither here nor there--did Trask give you the letter that proves Quentin is consorting with the dead?  Yes, says Dawson, he wanted to testify tomorrow.  Are you going to let him? asks Gerard.  I think not, says Dawson, I have something more important to introduce tomorrow, as you know, something most important--he holds up a yellow piece of paper with writing on it.  As we both know, says Gerard, grinning.  I'll be leaving, says Dawson, I have much studying to do.  Gerard tells him that "little Leticia Faye" is becoming "a sore point in my side."  Well, we'll have to do something about Leticia, smiles Dawson evilly.  And quickly, agrees a grinning Gerard.

Rose Cottage - Desmond sits at a desk, writing.  Leticia runs in--I just answered the door, she says--a constable handed me this--she gives it to him.  It's a subpoena, he says, you're to be called today as a witness.  For the prosecution, she says--why did they call me?  They must think you know something that can hurt Quentin's case, says Desmond nervously--what could it be?--oh, no, it couldn't be, they have no way of knowing...  About what, luv? she asks.  Judah Zachary, he says.  I would never tell them about that, she says--eight policemen couldn't force me to do it, I swear--but what would they want to ask me?  I don't know, says Desmond, rising, banging something on the desk--your second sight, perhaps, they might try to link it with Quentin somehow.  I won't allow them to do that, she says, it's got nothing to do with him.  If they bring it up, says Desmond, tell them it was all an act, that you never really had second sight--that it was just a performance, that's all--do you understand?  Yes, luv, she says.  He touches her face--I wouldn't want them to think you a witch, he murmurs. You wouldn't? she asks, smiling.  No, I wouldn't at all, he says, smiling back.  They gaze at each other.

Gerard and Samantha have tea in the drawing room.  She's a nervous wreck.  Gerard remarks, this will be an incredible day in court, but more regrettable for your husband--it's a pity they can't see it--the judges asked the courts be closed because of the destruction in testimony (?)  Gerard, she says, let's leave this house, go away somewhere, Boston, New York...  Leave now? he asks, incredulous, just when it's turning out to be some fun?  Fun? she sputters--Joanna Mills has come back from the grave--to kill me!  Are we going to hear that all over again? he chides.  I don't see how you can be so cruel! she cries--you're the one who saw me putting a letter in the oak tree for Quentin.  Yes, says Gerard, and that is all I saw--believe me, when this trial is over, we'll go away, get married--there, I've said it.  But you don't believe it, do you? she asks.  He caresses her face--what has shaken your little mind (insulting) now that makes you not believe me?--when this trial is over, we will go away together, just the two of us.  He plants a kiss on her to seal the deal.

Dawson enters the courtroom and greets Desmond and Quentin, who are already waiting there.  Good morning, says Desmond curtly.  He turns to Quentin and says they're planning something special today--I don't know what to expect--I have bad news for you--Daphne brought the letter you wrote to the spirit of Joanna to the oak tree.  I know that, says Quentin.  Trask was there, says Desmond, he took the letter from her.  Just how did he know to be there? asks Quentin.  Desmond shakes his head.  Do you think they'll start accusing Daphne of consorting with the dead? asks Quentin.  No, says Desmond, they've given no indication of that, she's not subpoenaed for today--but they're up to something and I don't know what--be prepared for anything.  The judge bangs his gavel and announces--the State of Maine vs. Quentin Collins on the charges of witchcraft--the court is now in session.  All participants take their places, faces solemn.

Leticia is sworn in, assuring all, I never lie--everyone knows that.  Amused, the judge commands,  answer 'I do,' Miss Faye.  She repeats as ordered and takes her place in the witness stand, which has an inkwell in it and must have once been a desk.  How long have you been a resident of Collinsport?  About 8 months, she says.  And you met Quentin Collins when he returned from sea?  Oh, yes, and I liked him, she responds.  Objection, cautions Dawson.  I liked him very much, insists Leticia.  You will confine your answer to the questions, orders the judge.  And Quentin Collins was interested in you because you had been an entertainer in a music hall--would you describe your act to the judges?  I was a mentalist, she says.  Oh--then you had second sight?  Desmond gazes at her.  No, it was a game, she says, just entertainment.  Did you, at any time, have a conversation with Quentin about the occult?   Desmond objects--I fail to see where this line of question is leading.  They both approach the bench.  You'll see soon enough, Dawson assures him.  Overruled, proceed, says Vail.  Did you talk with Quentin about the occult? asks Dawson again.  I don't remember, replies Leticia.  Do you remember this book? he asks, showing her the back of a notebook.  No, she says.  Perhaps the title will help your memory, he says, turning the notebook to show her Judah Zachary's journal. Quentin looks concerned.  Desmond objects--I fail to see what this journal has to do with the case against my client.  We will prove this journal plays a vital part in the case, asserts Dawson.  Objection overruled, says the judge--continue.  Miss Faye, asks Dawson, do you know the name Judah Zachary?  She looks to Desmond.  You are under oath to tell the truth, Dawson reminds her.  I've heard the name, she admits--yes--he was a warlock who lived--well, I don't know when, luv.  1692, supplies Dawson.  Something like that, she says--there was a trial, for witchcraft, like this one--he was beheaded.  And you know many other things about Judah Zachary, don't you? he asks.  Objection, shouts Desmond, this witness can give no further information about a legendary warlock that has nothing to do with this case!--Judah Zachary has been dead for over 150 years.Ah, but you are wrong, says Dawson, the head was removed from the public square at Bedford and it is rumored Judah still lives through the powers of the head.  Is this court to rely on rumors? demands Desmond--it's supposed to rely on facts!--he bangs his fist on the judges' desk.  And you shall have them, Dawson assures him, opening the journal--here--this is the Journal of Judah Zachary, the first entry is July 18th, 1688--four years before he was beheaded--and the last is November 15th, 1840--he hands the journal to the judges for their perusal.  Desmond objects--there is no proof that Judah Zachary ever wrote that in that book!  I'm going to prove that he did, says Dawson.  How? Desmond demands.  Order in the court, says Vail, banging his gavel, your objections are overruled.  Dawson reads from the journal, an entry dated one month ago, October 5th, 1840: "Leticia is the logical one to help me, I must will her to me."  A sickly expression comes over Leticia's face.  Have you, since your arrival at Rose Cottage, had in your possession the legendary head of Judah Zachary? asks Dawson.  Upset, her voice rising, Leticia says, I don't want to answer that question, I swear I don't!--it's got nothing to do with Quentin--I can't tell you about that head, I just can't!  Quentin has dipped his head down in misery and now rises from his seat and shouts, "Leticia, you've got to!"  The judge bangs for order--Mr. Collins, he tells Quentin, you must not speak with the witness.  I first saw the head at Rose Cottage, says Leticia, there was something about it, I got so I could hear its voice in my mind.  You were in fact possessed, asks Dawson--possessed by the head of Judah Zachary.  Yes, I was possessed, she confesses--its eyes would open, I could not turn away, I was possessed!  As was anyone who came near it, says Dawson.  Yes, says Leticia.  Who brought the head to Rose Cottage in the first place? asks Dawson.  Desmond closes his eyes as if he wishes he could will himself elsewhere.  Leticia looks at him, scared, not answering.  Finally, in a soft, voice, she replies, "Desmond Collins."  And why did he bring it from Asia to Collinsport? asks Dawson.  As a present for Quentin Collins, sobs Leticia.  Crying, covering her face, she says, Quentin, I'm sorry.   Dawson looks smug.  The judge bangs his gavel.  I'd like to dismiss the witness, says Dawson, for the time being, and should like to call Desmond Collins to the stand.  An unusual procedure, remarks Vail.  And this is an unusual set of circumstances, says Dawson, for I intend to try to prove that Quentin Collins is possessed by the spirit of Judah Zachary.  That's impossible! shouts Quentin.  The judge bangs the gavel, calls for order, and dismisses Leticia.  (No cross-examination for her?)  Judge Vail says,  "The court would like to call Mr. Desmond Collins to the stand as a witness for the State."  Desmond slowly rises and takes the stand.  Quentin watches him.  Dawson grins with delight.

Do you admit bringing the head of Judah Zachary to Collinsport? asks Dawson.  I do, says Desmond.  Why did you bring it here?  As a gift for Quentin Collins, admits Desmond.  A gift at his request, yes or no? asks Dawson.  He merely asked me to find it for him, says Desmond, as a curio, that's all.  Did he believe in the head's legendary powers?   I don't know, replies Desmond, would you have if you had just heard of them?  But you discovered that the head had powers, did you not?  Desmond hesitates.  You must answer, insists the judge.  Yes, says Desmond.  And did Judah's eyes open for you?--did you hear his voice in your mind?  Yes, says Desmond.  And did his voice tell you where to find this journal begun in 1688?  Yes, says Desmond, his responses growing softer.  And did you write in this journal (Dawson holds it up), in a hand that was not your own, but was in fact the hand of Judah Zachary?  Yes, says Desmond.  Tell the court your experiences with the head.  I fought it, says Desmond, I thought I was losing my mind, I refused to look at it--I don't know what would have happened--then it disappeared.  Miss Faye took it? asks Dawson. Yes, I found out later she had, answers Desmond.  Did you see the head at any time after Miss Faye took it?  No, I did not, says Desmond.Leticia looks miserable.  Where is the head today?  It was destroyed in an explosion, says Desmond.  Do you know where that explosion took place?  Yes, says Desmond, in the old cemetery in an abandoned tomb somewhere between here and Rockport.  Your honor, says Dawson to the judge, this man, Desmond Collins, is so intricately involved in witchcraft, that I would ask the court to disqualify him as counsel for the defendant, Quentin Collins.  "NO!" yells Quentin, rising.  The judge bangs for order in the court.  I further request, says Dawson, that this court charge Desmond Collins with the crime of witchcraft and see that he is arrested and brought to trial in such time that the court may pay him its justice.  Quentin looks somber; Leticia, as if she's about to cry.  Judge Vail agrees to confer with his colleagues and orders Desmond to leave the stand.  The judges talk it over.  They won't do it--they can't, insists Quentin as Desmond takes a seat next to Leticia.  The judges finish discussing the matter.  Rise, Judge Vail orders Desmond.  He stands.Judge Vail says, "By the power vested in me in this special court, I disqualify you from acting as attorney for Quentin Collins."  Dawson grins.  "And furthermore," says Vail, "I order you arrested and remanded to the local prison, where you will await trial on charges of witchcraft!"  NO!" sobs Leticia, running to throw her arm around Desmond--"NO!"  Desmond looks disbelieving, Quentin sickened.

NOTES:  From the frying pan into the fire goes Quentin, his cousin Desmond at his side--and who will help them now?  With Barnabas bricked up, it appears Gerard has managed to put the finishing touches on the end of the Collins family.

Great courtroom drama today, with Karlen being more subdued and therefore, more effective.  It wasn't a particularly good day for the Collinses or the legal profession.

The growing love between Leticia and Desmond is sweet to watch.  They're nice people and deserve each other, but Gerard is very unhappy with Leticia's interference.  What are his dastardly plans for her?

Samantha seems a lot more upset at the idea that Joanna's ghost has it in for her than the situation warrants.  There's a good reason for it, as we will soon learn--a very good reason.

Love, Robin

1169 - You've got to love the expression of disbelief and astonishment on Gerard's face upon seeing Barnabas in the daytime!  Priceless!  But how did it happen?

Gerard stares at Barnabas.  What's wrong? asks Barn.  You're standing right before me--in broad daylight! sputters an amazed Gerard.  Why do you think there's something unusual about that? asks Barn, enjoying himself immensely.  You know what's unusual, says Gerard--vampirism.  Barnabas repeats the word--what makes you think I'm vampire, Gerard?  You know my answer to that, says Gerard.  As I understand it, says Barn, vampires cannot survive during the daytime--and their images cannot be reflected in mirrors--would you like me to stand in front of a mirror for you?  So? says Gerard, it's obvious you've had assistance from someone--and if I find out...  Of course I've had assistance, burbles Barnabas--I've been fortunate enough to have someone nearby, offering a kind hand.  (Count Petofi?)  Valerie enters.  "Do you want me, darling?" she asks Barnabas.  Spotting Gerard, she greets him cheerfully--how nice it is to see you--would you like to sit down?  No, says Gerard sulkily.  A glass of sherry? she offers, sounding very domestic--even if it is a bit early for that.Your composure is beautiful, accuses Gerard, take it while you can, enjoy it while you can, because I swear this wonderful little gathering won't be going on for long!  He leaves.  A triumphant Barnabas watches him go.  Barnabas immediately goes to Angelique (he calls her that) and says, when I went to you for help, I knew you'd want something in return--you didn't tell me then--tell me now what you expect.  "I expect nothing," she replies  "for once in my life, there is no price."  Julia, standing with her arms crossed, looks skeptical and says, I'm sorry--I appreciate what you've done for Barnabas, but I'm afraid I can't believe you--you've never done anything for nothing.  Julia, says Angelique sincerely, I'd only do what any woman would who loved Barnabas--believe me.  I would like to believe you, says Julia, but I'm afraid I can't--she turns away.  Barnabas goes to Julia--I think Angelique and I should have a talk alone, he says.  "Of course," says Julia, with bitter irony--"you are, after all, husband and wife."  Thank you, Julia, says Barnabas--if you hadn't warned me that Gerard knew about me, I'd be lying dead forever in that coffin right now.  He'd have had to kill me first, says Julia through gritted teeth.  "Then Angelique has saved us both," says Barnabas. (ouch!)  "Saved us for what? demands Julia--for WHAT?"

Alone now, a bemused Barnabas says, Angelique, you can pretend in front of Julia, but we know each other too well now for lies--you saved my life, tell me the price now.  There is no price, she repeats--none.  He turns away.  I don't expect you to believe me, she says, not after all we've been through, and I've only myself to blame--only myself.  You are extraordinary, he says--I've seen you play this scene many times, but I must confess, I've never been so convinced.  Perhaps it's because it's the truth, she says.  What is the truth? he asks.  That I love you, she says passionately--that no matter how much I fight my feelings, I will always love you.  Spare me this charade, says Barn, you do not love me, Angelique--you only want power over me.  She gazes at him with huge eyes and asks, why, then, did I lift your curse--you're free of me now, I have no hold over you--"Barnabas, I did want you for myself, but rather than see you dead, I would see you free of my power--and free of me--why do I love you?--you reject me, revile me, despise me..."   Barnabas surveys her skeptically--haven't you given me reason?  Yes, she says, I admit that--I wanted you, I couldn't bear to have anyone else have you--but everything I have done, none of it has given me your love.  We cannot love at will, he says gently, moving in close, anymore than we can prevent our love.  How well I know that, she sighs--that's why I ask nothing in return for your life that you can't give me willingly--all I want is your love--but only if you're able to give it--I only ask that you try.  Right now, he says softly, I almost feel like I'm an ordinary man and you're an ordinary woman (and there are beds galore upstairs).  But you are an ordinary man, she reminds him, now that the curse has been lifted.  Forever? he asks.  She turns away.  "Forever?" he repeats insistently--"You are silent."  Yes, she says, it will be forever, I swear it--oh, Barnabas, hold me--I'm so afraid of losing you--you're human now, like anyone else, you can die, and you have enemies--please, just hold me.  He takes her into his arms, holding her close.  Do you believe me now? she asks.Yes, I believe you, Angelique, he says, I cannot say that I love you, but I understand your love for the first time since you came here from Martinique.  And does that make any difference? she asks hopefully, her face alight.  I don't know, he admits.  (A great scene!)

Collinwood drawing room - "Barnabas, this is madness!" cries Julia, "you must not believe her!--if you believe her then she will be manipulating you, and you will never know where you are--oh, Barnabas, if you believe her you'll be at her perpetual mercy,  you must not trust her!"   But I do, I must, says Barnabas, she's changed and I have changed because of her--I'm free now, and I MUST believe her!  Julia shakes her head--anything you feel beyond gratitude will be a serious mistake, she says--she will use her power against you again--"Oh, Barnabas, I care for you too much..."  She stops, inches from making the three-word declaration, and he looks at her, brow furrowed.  Forcing a neutral expression onto her face, tamping down on her passion, Julia says carefully, "You're my good friend, I don't want to lose you."  You will not lose me, he assures her, not now, I am not afraid of anything anymore, I'm ready for anything that might come along because I'm human now--what am I doing standing here when I can be outside in the sun?--"Julia, excuse me, I'd like to take a walk alone for a moment."  I understand, she says, and watches him walk outside into the light of day.

4:50 - Julia meets Gerard, who is coming downstairs at Collinwood.  Are you going up for a rest? he asks.  I'm not tired, she says.  You had quite a night the other night with Valerie? he asks.  I don't know what you're talking about, she says.  Perhaps I can help you, he says--when was the last time you saw your brother Barnabas in the daylight?  About a half hour ago, she says, and before that, this morning--or you may remember that.  I'm not referring to today, he says sharply.  Oh, you mean yesterday and the day before? she asks--yes, I've seen him all those days, as a matter of fact, I think I've seen him every day since we arrived in Collinsport.  Then you are the only one that has, he says--come here.  He points to the portrait of Barnabas hanging in the hall.  Who is that? he asks.  Barnabas Collins, she replies.  Which one? he asks.  "The father," she says.  THE father? he asks.  She laughs, covering, correcting: "MY father!"  Are you certain? he asks, because I believe there is only one Barnabas Collins, just one, and I believe he is living at the Old House, and I believe he is......a vampire, finishes Julia, yes, you have already told us that--as a doctor, I'm very concerned about you--you seem to be succumbing to the hysteria in this house--you yourself are saying you are seeing vampires and supernatural creatures--Barnabas is not what you think he is--he's quite human--all-too-human, I'm afraid.  She excuses herself and goes upstairs.  Frustrated, Gerard pours himself a drink and slugs it down.  Gabriel enters.  What are you doing here? demands Gerard.  I want my check, if you don't mind, says Gabriel.  Gerard takes it out of his jacket and hands it to him.  What is this?--it's only half my allowance, complains Gabriel.  It's all you will be getting until the trial is over, says Gerard--this trial is costing this family a fortune.  (Why, is Desmond charging them?)  And I have no doubt, says Gabriel, flipping the check around, that the rest of my allowance is in your pocket--with everything else you've bled from the Collins'--he stabs his finger against the check--now this is my money!--and I demand it now!  What a bore you are, sneers Gerard, and leaves the room.  Gabriel tosses the balled up check into the fire.  He hears his father's laughter filling the room.  Terrified, he asks, Father, is that you laughing?--why have you come back?  Why?

Angelique sits writing at a desk in the Old House drawing room when a beaming Barnabas enters and asks, do you know what the daylight is like?--I've never seen more beauty than I have in these past few hours.  Happy? she asks, smiling.  I've never known such happiness, he says, more than I could ever hope to have known--I'm almost like a child, I can hardly wait for the morning!   I'm so glad, she says, smiling at him.  You seem to be very busy, he notices.  Yes, I'm answering a note from Charles Dawson, she says.  What did he want? inquires Barnabas.  He's asked me to testify, she says.  He's the prosecuting attorney, says Barnabas, he must want you to testify against Quentin.  That's right, she says--I'm going to do it.  You can't, I forbid it, says Barnabas--Quentin is innocent.  Quentin must never be set free, she says--he's evil, possessed by the spirit of Judah Zachary.  Barnabas stares at her in disbelief.

How did you know Judah Zachary? he asks her.  Isn't it remarkable, she says, all the years we've known one another, and yet you never knew who it was who made me as I am.  Then it was...? asks Barnabas.  Judah Zachary, yes, she says.  But how? asks Barnabas.  It happened long before I met you, she relates, in 1692, I had just moved to the village of Bedford, taken a position as a chambermaid there--one of the prominent families--the first time I met Judah Zachary, I loathed him, but somehow, mysteriously, I was drawn to him; without my even knowing it, I came under his spell--he made me a member of his coven--later Judah was tried for witchcraft and beheaded--one of the judges who convicted him was Amadeus Collins, your great-uncle--but it was I who testified against him--they put a black hood over him so he couldn't look at me and control me--it was my testimony that proved he was a warlock--if I hadn't testified against him, they would have beheaded me as well!--Judah died vowing to return and destroy your family--and me.  You were Miranda, marvels Barnabas, the girl the newspapers talked so much about.  Yes, she says.  And in reward for your testimony, he says, they gave you life and exile.  Yes, I went to the West Indies, she says, long after that to Martinique, where I met Josette and finally you--but I always knew that someday Judah would return for me.  But why do you think Judah possesses Quentin? Barnabas asks.  It all began with Gerard, she explains--one day he called me Miranda--I thought how would he ever know that?  Then why do you think Judah possesses Quentin and not Gerard? demands Barnabas.  I had a vision, she says, of Amadeus Collins as he was in 1692, in the courtroom, when he promised me my freedom in return for my testimony--so I knew then that Judah had returned--but not as himself--I suspected Gerard, and so I used my powers to conjure up am image of Judah as he exists here and now--and the face that I saw was that of Quentin Collins!  No, says Barnabas, if anyone is possessed, it's Gerard!--why do you think he named you Miranda?  He explained that, she says, he said he had been reading Judah Zachary's journal, the description in it had reminded him of me.  He was lying, says Barnabas, all of your strange experiences have been made by Judah, acting through Gerard.  Why are you so sure it's Gerard? she asks.  I've come from the 20th century, he says, where Gerard is an evil spirit, who will try to possess the souls of two children--the boy who is living there now, David Collins, and his friend, Hallie Stokes--and he will try and destroy Collinwood--and Angelique, I know in this time, he will murder Quentin Collins--and soon!  Gerard! she cries, if that's true, Quentin will be acquitted, but Judah Zachary will continue to exist--I'm so confused, tell me what to do!  Trust me, he says, you must refuse to testify against Quentin in the trial--will you?  Yes if you think it's best, she says.  I do, he assures her--if anyone is a threat to us, it's Gerard Stiles.She turns away, unsure and afraid.

Gabriel, hand shaking, sips a drink Julia has given him-this was most helpful, he says.  I hope so, says Julia, I've never seen you so upset--you were pale as a ghost.  Just a dizzy spell, he says, I think I'm fine now.  I'm glad, she says.  Something tells me, he says, that you dislike Gerard as much as I do, is that correct?  Why do you suggest such a question? she asks.  It's obvious you either hate him or are terrified of him--or both.  Are you suggesting it's possible he can be terrifying or hurt me? she asks.  Yes, I'm suggesting that, he says--he is a loathsome pig!--now, it's good we hate and fear--it keeps our guard up, and it needs to be up, especially mine--because Gerard knows I'm going to break my father's will.  No, Gabriel, says Daniel's voice, do not try!--do not try!  Terrorized, Gabriel hands his glass back to Julia--do you hear it? he asks.  I don't, she says.  That voice! cries Gabriel.  GABRIEL, DO NOT TRY! insists Daniel.  Gabriel wheels out of the drawing room as if pursued, shouting, "Stop it!"  Julia, puzzled, watches him go.  Something is terrifying him--what could it be?  She sets the glass down on the foyer table, grabs her cloak and leaves the house.

In his room, Gabriel's window blows open, his curtains blow as thunder and lightning fill the room.  Leave me alone, Father! he begs.  Daniel appears.  Murderer! he cries, you murdered me!  It wasn't me, it was Gerard, babbles Gabriel--he made me do it, he lied to me, told me I was going to be your heir, then he said Quentin was going to be, and he goaded me to kill you, Father, please!  You walked! accuses Daniel, you walked--lies, Gabriel, lies!--your life is a lie--you will lie no more, I'm everywhere, Gabriel, everywhere--I will do to you what you did to me--I will make you die!Gabriel covers his face with his hands, crying out.  Daniel disappears.  Gabriel continues to babble, it wasn't me, it was Gerard, please punish him, not me, punish Gerard!  Through gritted teeth, Gabriel declares, "I'M GOING TO MAKE SURE YOU NEVER HURT ME AGAIN, GERARD STILES!"

Gerard sits in the drawing room, playing chess alone.  Gabriel exits the secret panel, on foot, and creeps over to Gerard stealthily.  He slams his fist down on him, rendering him unconscious, then takes a length of rope and begins to strangle him, pulling the rope tight.

NOTES:  One of DS' pivotal episodes:  Angelique lifts Barnabas' curse (one wonders why she never did it before, but I guess she got the power to do so successfully since 1797).  She tells him she loves him, again, but this time sounds very sincere.  Julia almost confesses her love, but stops short; you know Barnabas knows it.  Her face, filled with pain and adoration, is something I will never forget, and her bitter remark that Barn and Ang are husband and wife is an admission that has to hurt her deeply.  Angelique tells Barnabas the tale of her origins, and agrees to do what he says in regards to not testifying against Quentin.  His attitude toward her is different, gentler.  From her cruelty in turning Roxanne into a vampire and her attempt to force the same fate on Julia, Angelique has seemingly turned into a completely different person.

Will Gabriel succeed in doing away with Gerard?  It seems hard to believe a little strangling can get rid of such a powerful warlock, but it could mean the death of Gerard's body and the need for Judah to find another shell to inhabit.

This is probably one of my favorite episodes, both because Angelique cures Barnabas, Julia comes within a hairsbreadth of admitting her love and because they outwit Gerard so brilliantly.  His face in that scene where Ang is inviting him to have a sherry is hilarious!

Daniel is haunting Gabriel now.  Can madness and death be far behind?


1170 - Jail - Quentin paces his cell.

Gabriel strangles Gerard to unconsciousness.  Hearing Leticia calling to Gerard, Gabriel exits through the window.  Gerard topples to the floor. Leticia runs to his side and kneels--what's happened to you? she cries, patting his face--can you hear me?  Hearing a noise, she demands,  who is there?  She looks out the window but sees no one.Only a few feet from her, Gabriel hides against the vines clinging to the house.  Hearing Gerard moan, Leticia goes to him and helps him up--you gave me such a fright! she says.  Someone tried to kill me, says Gerard, pulling the rope from around his neck.  Oh, Lord, who was it? asks Leticia.  I don't have the foggiest idea, someone obviously wanted to strangle me--when did you come in?  Just a moment ago, she says.  You must have frightened him away, says Gerard, you saved my life Leticia, I'm grateful.  I think whoever it was must have left by the window, she says, I thought I heard someone behind the drapes, but when I came here, I didn't see anybody.  He looks at the open secret panel--they might have come in by the window, he says, but they didn't leave that way.  Gerard takes some candles and decides, despite Leticia's objections, to check it out.  I'll be right back, he assures her.  I won't stay here alone, she insists.  Gabriel slips from his hiding place and walks out of the room.

In the secret passageway, Leticia and Gerard encounter lots of cobwebs.  It goes on a bit, don't it? remarks Leticia.  Staircase over there, he says, must be an exit around somewhere--maybe up there is where the assailant made his escape.

Collinwood - Carrie comes downstairs.  Gerard, back in his wheelchair, meets her and nastily asks, what are you gaping at?  Your shoes, she says, there's mud on them--how did you do that?  He looks at her and stammers, assuming it's none of your business, which it isn't, a servant was helping me from my carriage--the imbecile lost his grip--my feet hit the ground--the pain was excruciating--are you satisfied?   (Imagine how the servants hate Gabriel.)   Yes, replies Carrie, and I'm sorry I asked.  She goes to the kitchen area.  Gabriel breathes a sigh of relief and enters the drawing room as Leticia and Gerard exit the secret panel.  Well, the lord of the manor, inspecting all his properties, sneers Gabriel.  This is no time to be funny, says Leticia--there's a murderer loose in the house.  A murderer, my dear? asks Gabriel.  Someone tried to kill me a while ago, explains Gerard.  How extraordinary, smiles Gabriel--who would think a man like you would have enemies?  Did you know there was a secret passage behind that panel there? asks Gerard.  Of course I did, says Gabriel, we used to play there as children--does that make me a suspect?  I would be happy to accuse you, says Gerard, looking down at his legs--if you could walk.  There are some virtues of being a cripple, says Gabriel--one does not get unjustly accused--good night, both of you.  You're bloody calm about this all! bitches Leticia--doesn't it bother you at all that someone almost got killed?  Not as long as the someone isn't me, replies Gabriel--and, Mr. Stiles, I do pray you aren't murdered in your sleep tonight.  We both know that even you could do that, don't we, Gabriel? asks Gerard.  Pissed, Gabriel wheels himself out.

Gabriel eavesdrops outside the drawing room as Leticia reminds Gerard, someone tried to kill you tonight--don't you think you should send for the police?  I think I can handle it, he says--by the way, why did you come to the house this evening?  I almost forgot, she says, Desmond asked me to give you a message--Quentin wants you to come see him in the jail--Desmond says you never even answered his first note asking you to come--he's quite upset about it.  I don't blame him, says Gerard--I always mean to go, but I had a lot of business here to do--but I will make it a point to see Quentin tomorrow.

Next day - Curtains blow in Daphne's bedroom, where she sits on the bed, brushing her hair.  Her face fades into Quentin's, who is receiving a visit in jail from Gabriel--quite a mob outside, he remarks, what are they waiting for?  My beheading, they hope, says Quentin--it's their nightly entertainment--but as you can see, I'm quite all right--I must say, this is an unexpected pleasure.  Life does hold some surprises, says Gabriel, doesn't it?--I hear your trial is going very well for you.  Yes, Desmond's done a very fine job, agrees Quentin--what's on your mind?  I'll get right to the point, says Gabriel--the future of Collinwood and the entire family--your friend, Gerard Stiles (music miscue here), isn't a friend--I don't know how he did it, but he's behind everything that happened--your trial, the changing of the will, everything--and you're going to have to find some way to prove the will invalid.  I must admit, says Quentin, I've begun to have some grave doubts about Gerard--but I'll have to talk to him first.  What good is talking going to do? demands Gabriel--if you don't do anything right away, you'll have yourself to blame if anything happens to Tad.  He's all right, isn't he? asks Quentin.  For the moment, says Gabriel, but I don't think he's going to live to be 21 and inherit any money as long as Gerard Stiles is master of Collinwood.  I don't know what I'll be able to do, says Quentin, you'll have to give me time to think about it first.  We don't have time, argues Gabriel.  Quentin looks speculative.

Drawing room - Carrie works on a drawing of Jeremy.  Daphne comes up behind her and praises it.  I didn't hear you come in, says Carrie, hiding the picture.  Don't cover it up, let me look at it, says Daphne.  She takes the drawing from Carrie--could that possibly be Jeremy Grimes? asks the governess.  How did you know? asks Carrie, surprised.  I guessed, says Daphne.  But you've never met him, have you? asks Carrie.  Word has a way of getting around, says Daphne, sitting beside her--you must have told Tad about Jeremy, and he told me.  Smiling, she hands back the drawing.  He shouldn't have done that, says Carrie, miffed.  I'm sure he didn't mean any harm, Daphne assures her.Jeremy's father doesn't like anyone in this house, says Carrie, and if he knew Jeremy met me, he'd probably disown him--you won't say anything about it to anyone, will you?  Of course not, says Daphne--tell me, why does Jeremy's father hate the Collinses so?  I don't know, says Carrie--Jeremy says his father agrees with everything Mr. Trask says about Quentin, about him practicing witchcraft--whenever he talks to his father about it, he gets hysterical.  Daphne rises--I'm afraid he isn't the only one who has gotten hysterical, she says.  What's going to happen to Quentin? asks Carrie.  I really don't know, replies Daphne.

Jail - Quentin, I'm sorry for not coming to see you earlier, says Gerard.  So am I, says Quentin, I think you have some explaining to do.  Gerard surveys him steadily.

I don't understand, says Gerard, what is it that I have to explain?  I wonder how the prosecutor of my case happens to be your very good friend, Charles Dawson, says Quentin--and why is he so determined to crucify me?  And am I to be held responsible against the actions of a former friend? asks Gerard.  Former? asks Quentin.  Had no one told you that Charles Dawson and I are no longer friends? demands Gerard.  Quentin, arms crossed, says no, no one told me anything.  I was furious with him when he said he would accept the case! says Gerard, that he would prosecute you!--I asked him not to, begged him not to, but he refused--he's a very ambitious man, he wants to make a name for himself, even at your expense--so I told him our friendship was finished, that I was going to stand with you and not help him in any case whatsoever.  Quentin listens carefully--I don't know what to say, Gerard--you know I want to believe you very much.  Quentin, says Gerard, throwing up his arms--why don't you judge me for my actions?--he puts his hand on his shoulder--have I ever betrayed you in all the years we were at sea together?  No, says Quentin.  And I told you that as far as I was concerned, I only hold the position of a trustee or a caretaker until you are released and your innocence established, adds Gerard.  I just wonder how it is that men like Barnabas and Desmond can be so much against you, says Quentin.  I don't understand it either, admits Gerard, sitting beside Quentin on the cot--but they will be very interested to know you and I have a common enemy--I was attacked last night.  Someone tried to kill you? asks Quentin.  Very nearly did, says Gerard, and had not Leticia been there to stop them...  Leticia? asks Quentin.  Yes, says Gerard, I was in the drawing room-someone snuck in through the secret panel and Leticia entered and must have scared them off.  Did you see who it was? asks Quentin.  No, says Gerard, it happened too quickly, but it's obviously someone who knows that house quite well.  I wonder who it is at Collinwood who would want to kill you? asks Quentin.  More important, says Gerard, who's at Collinwood who wants to destroy the master of the house?  What you're saying is, says Quentin, the person responsible for putting me in here is the same one responsible for trying to kill you.  I believe so, says Gerard.  Then why can't we find out the answer? demands Quentin--how come this person is able to remain so anonymous all this time?  I don't know, says Gerard.  Has Daphne received anymore letters? asks Quentin.Yes, I'm afraid she has, even more mysterious than ever, says Gerard.  All the trouble started when I began to receive those letters from Joanna, says Quentin--it's just possible the source of those letters is the answer to all our troubles.  Yes, says Gerard, you once told me you had received letters in a very familiar pattern.  Right, says Quentin.  Well, says Gerard, perhaps Daphne received letters in the same pattern--believe me, I will find out.  And then, says Quentin, destroy the spirit.  If this is a spirit, says Gerard--spirits don't usually attack people--no, I will find the source of the notes and work from there.  Do whatever you think is best, says Quentin, smiling, and make sure nothing happens to Daphne--take care of yourself.  Believe me, now that I have been alerted, says Gerard, no one will get rid of me--"Guard!"

Daphne, finally wearing a different dress, is heading downstairs at Collinwood when she gets a whiff of Joanna's perfume--and hears her music playing in the drawing room.  She goes to the closed doors and throws them open.  Leticia is at the piano, Carrie listening.  You gave me a start, luv, says Leticia, smoothing her hair--what is it, Daphne?  Has there been anyone else in this room? asks Daphne.  No, why? asks Carrie.  There was a scent in the air, perfume, it was very familiar to me, says Daphne.  Leticia rises from the piano bench--Daphne, are you all right?  I'm fine, says Daphne, walking away.  Carrie, go up to your room now, says Leticia--run along, luv, I want to talk with Daphne.  Carrie leaves.  Leticia seats Daphne on the sofa--what's troubling you? she asks.  Is it true you have second sight? asks Daphne.  I have a certain gift, chuckles Leticia, it's hard to explain exactly what it is.  Could you use it now to help me? asks Daphne.  It isn't something you just turn on and off, protests Leticia.  Please try, urges Daphne--I want to know if there's a spirit in the house--an unfriendly spirit.  Leticia rises and concentrates--I don't feel any vibrations at all, says Leticia--I'm sorry, like I said, it don't always work.  It's all right, says Daphne.  If you could just tell me what's troubling you, begins Leticia, then stops.  We hear Judah's creepy music.  It's happening, says Leticia.  Tell me, says Daphne.  The vibrations, says Leticia, I can feel them now--there is a foreign spirit somewhere in this house.  Can you identify it? asks Daphne.  No, says Leticia, but I know it's here in this house.  In the foyer, Gerard has returned to Collinwood.

As Gerard listens, Daphne asks Leticia, do you know where in the house the spirit is?  I can't tell you anymore, luv, I just know it's here, says Leticia--it wasn't a moment ago and it is now.  What am I going to do? asks Daphne.  (We see Mike R. Phone.)  I overheard, says Gerard, joining the ladies--it's Joanna.  Daphne nods--yes, she agrees.  Who is Joanna? asks Leticia.  I'm afraid she's someone who's risen from the dead, says Gerard.  Oh the one Samantha told about at Quentin's trial, remembers Leticia.  Yes that's right--excuse me, says Daphne, and hurries from the room.  Gerard, what's troubling Daphne? asks Leticia--you must tell me.  Before Gerard can reply, Daphne calls to Gerard from the foyer, where she's found another note on the table.  She hands it to him, and he reads: "Tonight I will come back, this time I shall succeed."  Succeed?--I don't understand, says Leticia.  This isn't the first warning, says Daphne--she's trying to kill me.  Kill you, why? asks Leticia.No one is going to kill you, says Gerard--you must believe me.  Come to Rose Cottage and spend the night there, Leticia orders Daphne.  I can't do that, insists the latter.  You can't very well stay here, can you, not if your life is in danger? demands Leticia.  I've got no choice, says Daphne--Samantha, Edith and Gabriel are all going out tonight; I have to stay here or Tad and Carrie will be alone.  Gerard holds the letter, musing--it's odd, isn't it? he asks--whoever sent this letter knew Daphne would be alone tonight--because I had intended to go out myself--now it's time to close the little mystery about Joanna Mills.

Midnight - Curtains blow in Daphne's room.  Someone lies under the covers.  The door opens; a hooded figure enters and raises a knife over the body.  Gerard, who has been hiding under there in Daphne's stead, darts out from under the covers and thwarts the would-be murderer.  "Yes!  My God, it's you!  It's really you!" he cries.  (And another music miscue.)

NOTES:  Who is YOU?  I don't remember, believe it or not, but it must be someone known to Gerard.

I've got to say Gerard gave a most convincing argument to Quentin why he should be trusted, and unfortunately, I believe Quentin accepted his responses.  Too bad, too, but whether possessed by Judah or not, he seems to be a man of considerable charm and persuasiveness.

Gabriel's interest is purely selfish.  He wants his rightful place in the household and as much money as he can get his greedy hands on.  No matter how terrible his life, or how much his father despised him, he has no right to be such an SOB.

Is Joanna really intent on killing her sister?  Why would she?  Because Daphne loves Quentin and vice versa?  She's jealous?  She doesn't want her sister getting the man she couldn't get?  Or would she rather see her sister dead than Quentin's mistress?

How cute that Carrie is drawing pictures of Jeremy.  Just don't expect too much from this little teen interlude.

All these and other questions will be answered, I promise!

Love, Robin

1165 - Police station - Quentin paces his cell.

Daphne stands in the drawing room, trembling.  We see a shadow reflected on the foyer side of the drawing room doors--Samantha's.  She enters the drawing room and asks what Daphne is carrying on about--she heard her all the way upstairs.  Nothing, Daphne assures her, no one, I was just frightened--I was alone and I thought I hard someone and I saw a cape there in the hallway.  A cape? asks Sam, I saw no cape.  It's by the clock, Daphne tells her.  Sam checks and finds nothing there.  You were frightened by your own imagination, says Sam nastily--I've known all along that you weren't fit to be my son's governess.  Please don't say that, it isn't true, says Daphne, I'm devoted to Tad.  I've never believed that for a moment, says Sam--my husband hired a pretty face, not a governess--suddenly spying something at the window, Samantha opens her mouth and whispers, "Oh, my God--there was a figure there by the tree--there was someone there and it disappeared!"  Who was it--tell me what she looked like! demands Daphne.  Samantha asks her how she knew it was a woman.Caught, Daphne blathers that she didn't.  Yes, you knew what I saw, insists Sam--it was some kind of spirit.  No, says Daphne, turning away.  That's why you were hysterical when I came in the room, says Sam, because you knew you weren't alone!  Daphne insists that's not true.  I know what I saw, says Sam--I could feel its evilness--and you brought it to this house--stay away from my son from now on, do you understand?  Daphne follows her from the room, trying to catch up with her, but to no avail.  Daphne stares at the empty spot where Joanna's cloak had been.

Jail - Tell me what happened this morning, Quentin asks Desmond.  A new judge, Vail, arrived today, says Desmond, I had a long talk with him--he denied a motion to postpone the trial.  That means I go on public display tomorrow? asks Quentin sourly.  I'm afraid so, says Desmond.--Amos Fuller, the county prosecutor, resigned.  Who's going to handle the prosecution? asks Quentin.  Desmond explains they have until tomorrow to decide if they keep up their current pace, I wouldn't be surprised if they named Trask.  They couldn't do that, says Quentin.  They can do anything they want, says Desmond, there are no rules of reason anymore, just hysteria and fear in this town--they can only hope they choose a prosecutor with a streak of decency in him.

Samantha finds Tad sitting on the floor in front of the fire and tells him he should be in bed.  I was, but couldn't sleep, he says--I keep thinking about tomorrow, and what's going to happen to Father--he hasn't done any of those things they said he's done--Mother, he doesn't practice witchcraft--I don't understand why they arrested him.  It does no good thinking about it, she says evasively, we must wait and hope for the best.  She tells him she'll take him upstairs.  Not yet, he says solemnly--you've got to go to court tomorrow--they'll listen to you--you've got to tell them everything they're saying against Father isn't true--will you do that?  Samantha looks guiltily at her son.

Why won't you answer me? demands Tad--you will try to help Father, won't you?  She looks away, telling him he must understand--this won't be an ordinary trial, they don't know yet what will be accepted and what won't.  All I know and care about, says Tad, is the innocence of my father.  I understand that, says Sam, you must be reasonable--there's been so much tragedy recently, and the people in the village are terribly disturbed by it.  She caresses his face.  They know he wouldn't hurt anyone, protests Tad.  Yes, but when people are terribly frightened, they don't act with reason, says Sam.You've got to go to them, Tad tells her, and show them the truth.  Yes, she says, Desmond will do everything in his power to tell them that.  He goes to stand beside her and asks, "Don't YOU want to help Father?"  Of course, she assures him (liar), I want to tell you something--no matter what happens, I love you deeply, and I ask you to have faith in me--she takes his hands in hers--will you?  I will, he says, of course I will.  Then we will see this through together, she says, hugging him. Desmond enters and Tad runs to him, asking if he's seen his father.  He's going to be fine, Desmond assures him.  Sam tells Tad to go to bed, she must speak to Desmond.  When you see my father, says Tad, tell him I've been thinking of him, and praying for him.  Desmond promises to do that, and Tad goes upstairs.  Desmond joins Sam in the drawing room, asking how Tad is taking it.  How would you expect him to take it? she asks bitterly, there must be some way I can get Tad to leave this place.  At the age of 21, says Desmond, Tad inherits the Collins fortune, if he leaves this house, he gets nothing, do you want that?  No, she says, but I can't let him stay in this place any longer, it's not healthy for him.You can't have it both ways, says Desmond, everything depends on the trial--if we can establish Quentin's innocence, Tad's place in the will becomes academic.  Quentin will return as master of Collinwood, says Sam angrily, and everything will be the way it was!  I should think you would prefer that instead of Gerard? asks Desmond.  It's choosing between two evils, Sam insists (she once had to choose a husband between them).  No matter what your personal feelings are, insists Desmond, Quentin is not an evil man and you know it!  She looks at him and doesn't reply, then turns and asks what he thinks Quentin's prospects are tomorrow?  I don't know, I can only guess, says Desmond.

At the jail, Quentin orders a reluctant Daphne to turn around and look at him--there's no use trying to hide it, something's wrong--and you're going to tell me about it.  I don't know how, she says.  It has something to do with Joanna, doesn't it? he asks.  Yes she says--she has come back from the grave--I'm sure of that now!--I found another of her notes tonight, and every moment afterwards, I could feel her presence.  What did the note say? asks Quentin.  What difference does that make? she asks, but he wants to know.  She hands him the note:  H reads: Dear sister, you're in danger and I must save you--better you're with me than with Quentin Collins--I'm coming for you now--please do not be afraid, what I do, I do with love, your sister Joanna."  I don't believe it, says Quentin, Joanna would never do a thing like this.  I know it's Joanna, says Daphne, I found her cape, but when I went back to look for her, it disappeared.  Did you see her? asks Quentin.  No, I didn't, but Samantha did, she tells him--we were in the drawing room, arguing, and then suddenly she looked up and saw Joanna's spirit behind me.  She saw the ghost? asks Quentin--did she know who it was?  No, she's never seen Joanna, says Daphne, closing her eyes, she accused me of bringing evil into the house, and told me never to go near Tad again.  Listen to me, says Quentin--she has nothing to do with that, I hired you--if anything happens, you go to Gerard and talk to him--you can depend on him--do you understand.  Yes, says Daphne, but. . .I'll do whatever you want me to.  He takes her face in his hands through the bars and tells her not to go to the village--a lot of people are talking of a witch's cult--he doesn't want Daphne connected too closely with him.  She assures him those people don't frighten her.  When you leave here, try not to be seen, he says--you didn't show these notes to Samantha, did you?  Of course not, I didn't say anything to her, Daphne says.  Good, he says, it's hard to tell what she'd do if she found out about them.  I shouldn't have told you about this, says Daphne, you've got enough to worry about with the trial tomorrow.  Tomorrow, repeats Quentin, disturbed.

Courtroom - The three-judge tribunal takes their seats, Judge Vail, seated in the center, bangs the gavel (the other judges are silent and paid less).  Judge Vail intones, "According to the provision of this statute invoked on Tuesday last, this high tribunal is now in session."  Desmond, sitting beside Quentin, rises and respectfully asks the judge how it is possible to be in session in the absence of a prosecuting attorney.  As you know, says the judge, the local prosecutor tendered his resignation early yesterday morning.  Yes, and I just learned the reason just a few hours ago, says Desmond--the defense now requests that it be put into the record that Amos Fuller resigned his post because the very idea of these proceedings was repugnant to him--I want it known there was at least one voice of reason in this wilderness of hysteria and fear.  The courtroom erupts in an outburst of chatter.  The request is granted, says Judge Vail, there is no need to editorialize on it.  I also move that this trial, or whatever it is to be called, says Desmond, be terminated on the grounds that it is unconstitutional.  This tribunal is empowered to act by a law that you are already familiar with, the judge reminds him--the motion is denied.  More chatter.  Desmond, looking pissed, goes to sit beside Quentin again.  Earlier today, says Judge Vail, it fell upon this tribunal to appoint a new prosecuting attorney.  Mr. Collins, your adversary has just arrived--Mr. Charles Dawson.  Desmond gazes at him with hatred.

This is impossible! says Desmond.  I apologize for the delay, says Dawson, bringing paperwork up to the judges, but due to the lateness of my appointment to this post, I only now have the credentials necessary for me to appear here--I'm sure you'll find these in order.  The judge takes the paperwork and looks it over.  I know how shocked you must be, Dawson tells Quentin, but someone had to prosecute this case, and I promise you at least a fair trial.  Nothing you say here can make me believe that says Desmond through gritted teeth, only the way you conduct the prosecution (get him, Des!)  Thank you very much for your concern, says Quentin.  Dawson walks away.  Quentin leans over and asks Desmond why he's so upset--he's Gerard's friend.  That is precisely why I'm so upset, says Desmond, this man is not here make the law, he's here to crucify you.  Quentin tells him they've got to give him the benefit of the doubt--they can't continue to blame Gerard for everything.  Has anyone given you the benefit of the doubt? demands Desmond, who rises and informs the judge he objects to this man being made county prosecutor, as a non-resident of Collinsport, he is not liable to practice law in this court!  Judge Vail says that Dawson has been a legal resident of Collinsport since last week.  That's not long enough, says Desmond, a man must be a resident for at least three calendar months!  Dawson says that law applies only in standard courtroom cases, not in these proceedings.  That's right, says Vail, your objection is overruled.  Exception, insists Desmond.  The judge bangs the gavel and orders Desmond to bear in mind that this is a tribunal designated to hear a charge of witchcraft brought against his client, and it's the duty of the presiding judge to lay down the rules--and the duty of both sides to abide by them--Mr. Dawson, you may present your opening remarks.  Dawson thanks the judge, and Desmond tells Quentin he'll get an opportunity to see for himself.  Dawson addresses the judges: "In recent months, the people of this community have been victimized by a series of regrettable incidents, the cause of which are not immediately discernible--however, thanks to the diligence and perseverance of certain prominent citizens, it became known that these incidents were the result of the practice of witchcraft--these same citizens soon pinpointed the source of this evil, and it is the intention of the prosecution in this case to prove, beyond a shadow of a doubt, that these willful acts of sorcery were perpetrated, with malice aforethought, by the defendant, Quentin Collins" (he points to him dramatically.)  "His guilt shall be determined here," continues Dawson, "and when it is, the prosecution will ask for the ultimate penalty under the law which has convened this tribunal--Quentin Collins shall be publicly beheaded!"  More courtroom chatter.  Desmond turns to Quentin and says well?  Send for Gerard, says Quentin, furious, I want to talk to him right away.  Do you have any opening remarks? The judge asks Desmond, who stands and says he only wants to reiterate his objections to the legality of these proceedings, I have nothing more to say, Your Honor.  The judge orders Dawson to call his first witness.  If it please the court, says Dawson, the prosecution had intended to call as its first witness Mr. Lamar Trask, whose testimony is considers vital to this case--however, I should like to postpone Mr. Trask's appearance in favor of another witness, one who came forth this morning with information I feel may expedite a decision in this case--Samantha Collins.  Objection! Shouts Desmond--under the law, she cannot take the witness stand!  May I ask why not? queries Dawson.  You know very well why not, says Desmond, she is the defendant's wife--and he would have to waive his constitutional rights--and he will NOT waive them!  The estate would point out to the counselor that the law which applies here pre-dates the constitution by almost a hundred years.  The judge tells Desmond there is nothing in the law that states a wife may not testify against her husband--there is, indeed, ample evidence that in trials of this nature, wives were allowed to take the witness stand.  Your honor, may I have a ruling? Demands Desmond.  Your objection is overruled, says Judge Vail--the tribunal calls Samantha Collins.  She enters the courtroom and Quentin stares at her with hatred.  She is sworn in on a bible and swears to tell the whole truth.  Dawson asks her how long she's been married to the defendant.  Almost 16 years, she says.  How long have you known for an absolute fact that Quentin Collins indulged in occult practices.For as long as I have been married to him, says Sam.  Desmond has his fist pressed against his forehead, and objects, insisting he wants the term occult practices defined. The judge tells Desmond the court would interpret this phrase to mean any act of witchcraft or sorcery perpetrated against another human being.  Desmond says the defense is very happy with that definition, and thus asks the prosecution to re-phrase the question.  The judge tells him to do so.  I withdraw the question, says Dawson--Mrs. Collins, I know you must have searched your conscience long and hard before deciding to take the stand against your husband--will you tell the court specifically what brought you to this decision?  My husband has always dabbled in the occult, she says, even though he's been repeatedly warned not to do so by his own father.  Objection, says Desmond, the witness is not giving a direct answer to the question.  Sustained, says the judge--Mrs. Collins, the counsel for the prosecution has asked you to testify to a specific incident--please do so.  I have witnessed the fact that my husband has communicated with the dead, and is responsible for bringing an alien spirit into the house! says Sam--I do not know why he has done this, except to terrorize all who live there--but I swear, the spirit is at large in the house.  Tell the court how you know that, asks Dawson.  Because, she replies, I have seen it.  Am I to believe the court will accept this hysterical testimony? Demands Desmond--it is not only possible, but highly likely, that what Samantha Collins saw was a figment of her own imagination!  I did not imagine it, says Sam, and I am not the only person in this courtroom who has seen the ghost!  Who else has seen it? demands Dawson.  That woman, there, Daphne Harridge, says Sam, pointing accusingly--not only has she seen the ghost, but she has known of its existence for a very long time!

NOTES:  Shame on Samantha for testifying against Quentin, especially after he begged her to help him!  Whether Quentin is his father or not, biologically, he is Tad's father as far as the boy knows, and they love each other.  This is inexcusable--she is spiteful and vindictive--there is no evidence Quentin brought this ghost out!

I always wondered just how much the DS writers wrote their own laws for 1840.  Some of this just seemed too much.  Wives testifying against husbands?  Was it ever allowed in our history?

So, is Joanna really haunting Collinwood?  Does she mean harm to Daphne, or to help her?

Love the courtroom theatrics.  Karlen is really chewing up the scenery as defending counsel, having a great time, from the looks of things.

Quentin and Samantha have been married 16 years?  They must have been teens when they wed.


1166 - Quentin gazes at Daphne as the courtroom goes wild.  Daphne Harridge knows the evil Quentin has brought to Collinwood, says Samantha, still pointing at Daphne.  Desmond objects--Daphne Harridoge is not on trial here.  The witness is stating a fact, not making an accusation, says Dawson.  Desmond says if it is a fact that Collinwood is haunted, it has nothing to do with the charges against the defendant.  I will prove that it does if I am allowed to continue, says Dawson.  Objection overruled, says the judge, continue, Mr. Dawson.  Charles goes over to a table and asks Samantha to identify her husband's diary.  Dawson goes on, saying the state intends to show that the spirit to which Mrs. Collins makes reference appeared at Collinwood in response to a summons made by Quentin and Daphne.  I invite you to read ther pertinent passage to the court, says Dawson.  Sam reads about Daphne and Quentin having a seance--they were desperate to contact Joanna's spirit--she appeared to them for a fleeting second--"I must keep trying, I must find a way to communicate with her."  Did you write that? Desmond mutters to Quentin, who just looks down in disgust.  Dawson thanks Samantha and asks if the defendant denies this is his personal journal.  We do not deny it, says Desmond.  I offer this as Exhibit A in the State's evidence against Quentin Collins, says Dawson, handing it to Judge Vail--tell the court when you first saw the spirit of this Joanna, he instructs Samantha.  Last evening, she says, I came downstairs and heard Miss Harridge behaving hysterically in the drawing room--I went in to reprimand her and saw the spirit of a woman.  A woman like the spirit Mr. Collins conjured up! says Dawson, but Desmond ojects to the phrase, "conjured up." The judge sustains that one, saying it shall be stricken.  Dawson says he has no further questions for Samantha, but before Desmond cross-examines her, Dawson requests that Daphne Harridge take the stand.  Desmond insists that's absurd, he has every right to cross-examine this witness before another is called (sounds judicial to me).  Quentin looks at Daphne.  Dawson assures Desmond he isn't challenging his rights; he will be given a chance to cross-examine Mrs. Collins.  I demand that opportunity now, says Desmond, what Counsel requests is totally ridiculous!  Judge Vail says he wishes to remind Desmond that the ordinary procedures are not operative in this trial.  That's not fair play, says Desmond--I insist I cross examine this witness now, not whenever it strikes the whim of Mr. Dawson or the court!  Vail advises him that this tribunal has not been convened to act upon whim, and it shall not so act--I see no harm in Mr. Dawson's request--he may be allowed to ask Miss Harridge to testify.  Exception, says Desmond.  Noted, says the judge, and tells Samantha to step down.  Daphne is called to the witness stand, and as she and Samantha pass each other, they exchange looks.  Daphne looks at Quentin, who gazes lovingly back at her.  Daphne stands there and refuses to testify against Quentin, she says, because he is innocent--the only testimony I will give is in his defense!  Quentin grins proudly.

Dawson asks the court to remind Daphne that she must obey its wishes, and the judge says under the law being invoked here, she is obligated to take the witness stand upon the request of either counsel.  Daphne is sworn in and pledges to tell the truth.  She goes to the witness stand.  Dawson asks if she did take part in the seance Quentin mentioned.  Yes, she admits.  He orders her to tell whose idea it was to conduct the seance.  She looks at Quentin and reluctantly says it was Quentin's.  Did the spirit of Joanna Mills appear upon Mr. Collins' summons? Asks Dawson.  Yes, she says.  Dawson asks why she was willing to particulate in this seance?  Because Mr. Collins asked me to as a favor.  But why you in particular? he asks, pointing his finger in her face.  Desmond jumps up, declaring the question irrelevant.  Sustained, says the judge.  Dawson says he has no further questions for Daphne.  Desmond comes up and says it seems his colleague overlooked the most important question of all--what was the purpose of the seance?  There had been a number of disturbances in the house, she replies, and Mr. Collins was very upset by them--Mr. Collins called them astral disturbances--thing began to appear in the house, such as gloves and a purse that belonged to Joanna Mills--and then one night Mr. Collins heard music playing that had always been associated with her--the source of the music remained a mystery.  Then Mr. Collins felt he was being haunted by someone from his past, is that true? asks Desmond.  Yes, she says.  So actually the purpose of the seance was to try to put the spirit to rest, asks Desmond.  Dawson objects--counsel is leading the witness.  The judge sustains and asks Desmond to re-phrase.  How did Quentin react to these astral disturbances? Asks Desmond.  She explains that she'd say he was emotionally upset by him.  In your opinion, asks Desmond, was he a tormented man?  Yes, she responds, I think he definitely was.  And you think his only motive for holding the seance was to rid himself of these spirits? Asks Desmond.  Yes, that was his one and only motive, agrees Daphne.  Desmond thanks her and says he has no further questions.  Daphne is told to step down.  Quentin smiles proudly at her.  Desmond now wants to call the prosecution's first witness.  The judge orders Sam to the stand.  Desmond says it's most unusual for a wife to testifying against her own husband--why did she do it?  Because, she says, I felt I had knowledge that should not have been withheld from this trial and because I thought it my duty to come forward.  Let's discuss this knowledge you speak of, says Desmond--you have alleged that you saw spirits of the dead.  Sam says it wasn't an allegation; it was a fact.  Can you describe these ghosts you claim to have seen? asks Desmond.  Yes, she says, this ghost was a woman, young, wearing a cape.  Precisely where did you see her? asks Desmond.  The drawing room at Collinwood, she replies.  And how did you know she was a ghost? asks Desmond--did she speak to you, or have you seen many ghosts in your life?  Dawson objects.  Samantha says she knew it was a ghost because she disappeared before my very eyes.  Did she say anything to you before she disappeared? demands Desmond.  No, says Sam.  In other words, accuses Desmond, she just appeared, then disappeared!  Exactly! says Sam.  Then why do you insist on putting this on the head of Quentin Collins? asks Desmond.  Dawson objects--the defendant's connection with the spirit has already been established by his own diary!  The judge sustains.  Mrs. Collins, says Desmond, you say you felt it was your duty to step forward--don't you feel you have certain duties as a wife?  In my opinion, she says, this was the higher of the two duties.  In my opinion, says Desmond, you came here because you hate him!  Dawson objects, the judge sustains.  Sam denies it's true.  The judge tells her the court isn't interested in her opinion, she will kindly confine herself to the facts.  Were you or were you not motivated by hatred of your husband? demands Desmond.  No, I was not! she cries.  DO you love Quentin Collins? shouts Desmond.  The courtroom erupts, with Dawson objecting and the judge sustaining, but Sam insists on answering, "No, I do not love my husband!"Quentin smiles at the way Desmond trapped Samantha.  The judge insists the statement will be stricken from the record.  Desmond has no further questions, and the judge tells Sam to step down.  Dawson says he has a few more questions for her, and asks Sam why she thinks her husband tried to summon up a spirit from beyond the grave--does she think his motive had anything to do with her--and tell the court why.  This woman, says Sam, whose spirit my husband was trying to bring back, Joanna Mills, was Quentin Collins mistress!  This upsets both Daphne and Quentin.

Dawson continues--wasn't it true, Mrs. Collins, that when Miss Mills was alive, she almost broke up your marriage?  Yes, says Sam, it's true.  But you refused to allow the marriage to be dissolved? Asks Dawson.  That's right, she says.  And because of his bitterness over your decision, says Dawson, he tried to summon the spirit of his mistress to haunt you!  Desmond objects, the judge sustains.  Dawson has no further questions, and Sam is released.  Desmond asks that Sam's testimony be stricken from the record.  On what grounds? demands Dawson.  On the grounds that she is a prejudiced witness, says Desmond--and her allegations have not been borne out--on the contrary, it has been shown here that Quentin Collins is the hapless victim in this matter, and the only purpose for holding the seance was to try to put Joanna's soul to rest.  Dawson tells the judge that Mrs. Collins' testimony does not constitute the whole of the prosecution's case, but it is vital to the overall information I intend to bring forward.  Desmond says that has nothing whatsoever to do with this case--the charge is witchcraft--and as unjust as I think it to be, I insist we adhere to this charge--and Samantha Collins' testimony has nothing to do with this charge!--anybody can hold a seance, anybody can try to communicate with the dead, that does not constitute witchcraft!  Dawson urges the judges to consider this decision very carefully.  Vail says the counsel may rest assured they will.  The judges confer and chatter breaks out in the courtroom as everyone watches the judges discuss the matter.  Miraculously, considering everything else has been going so badly for Quentin thus far, Judge Vail announces it is the opinion of this tribunal that Samantha Collins' testimony has not been proved, and in fact is not germane to the central idea of this case, namely the idea of witchcraft--therefore, the motion of the defense is to be granted--the testimony of Samantha Collins will be stricken from the record.  Dawson rises to his feet and comes to the bench, objecting like crazy.  You may take exception, instructs Judge Vail, you may not object.  Dawson chooses exception.  Noted, says the Judge, adjourning the tribunal until 10 Monday morning.  (I do like the courtroom set.)  We not it is now five minutes to four.

Samantha paces the drawing room at Collinwood.  When Daphne returns, she meets her in the foyer, remarking that it took her a long time to come back from the courtroom.  Daphne apologizes.  Did you stop in the jail to see my husband, or should I say your lover? Demands Samantha.  Daphne turns to looks at her and tells her Quentin is not her lover.  Even if that's true now, it's only a matter of time, isn't it? asks Sam.  I don't know what you're talking about, says Daphne.  You're in love with my husband, accuses Sam--that was quite evident from your testimony, you're hopelessly in love with him, just as Joanna Mills was!--well, you're wasting your time--my husband will be found guilty and then he will die.  Daphne surveys her solemnly.

You really want to see Quentin dead, don't you? asks Daphne icily.  I want the peace of mind he never gave me, says Samantha.  I don't see how you can even live with yourself after what you did today, says Daphne.  I did what I had to do, says Sam.  Is that what you're going to tell your son? demands Daphne.  If you're planning to tell Tad, says Sam threateningly.  I won't have to tell Tad, Daphne reminds her, you will--because he's bound to be curious what happened in court, what you told him, and if you lie to him, he'll know about it, he's an intelligent boy.  I know my son loves me! Samantha interrupts, I know that!--and I know he will understand I testified the only way that I could--you see, I did not go into that courtroom voluntarily, I was subpoenaed by Mr. Dawson.  Daphne smiles and asks her how she arranged that.How dare you speak to me like that! says Samantha.  I'll speak to you any way I wish now, says Daphne, because I no longer care what happens to me.  Then it won't be a surprise to you to know you are discharged as of this moment, says Sam--pack your things, get out, the sooner the better!  Daphne says, "I don't think you're capable of really loving anyone--I wish I could hate you but I don't--I only feel so very sorry for you"--and she walks away into the kitchen area.  Samantha seems about to say something further, but it silent.

Desmond grins at Quentin through the bars of his cell.  Quentin praises him, saying for a man who hasn't practiced law in a long time, he did a very good job.  This is no time to be congratulating ourselves, says Desmond, let's be realistic--we repudiated Samantha's testimony, but she's only one witness--there are still others to come.  Quentin doesn't care, he is very encouraged by today.  What will you do about your so-called friend Gerard? asks Desmond.  Quentin says he'll talk with him later.  Don't you realize Dawson is crucifying you there in that courtroom? asks Desmond, and it was Gerard's doing?  You may be very right about Gerard, admits Quentin, but I do think we have to give him the benefit of the doubt--I'll have a nice long talk with him, then we'll know what we need to know.  I only hope you know what you're doing, says Desmond.  Samantha comes in.  Quentin tells her the two of them have nothing to say to each other, so get out.  I have something to say to you, says Samantha.  Desmond excuses himself, saying he'll be back.  Say what you have to say, then leave, says Quentin, facing away from her.  It's a pleasure, she says, I have no desire to be with you any longer than necessary--I thought you would like to know your paramour has been discharged--I have dismissed Daphne Harridge as Tad's governess.  You can't do that, insists Quentin.  I have already done it, she says, smiling.You don't have the authority to do it, he says, Daphne is going to stay at Collinwood as long as I want her to!  You are no longer master of Collinwood, she reminds him, have you forgotten--Gerard Stiles is.  All right, says Quentin, Gerard is in charge--do you have his consent?  I don't need it, she says, Tad is my son, I know what's best for him.  You listen to me! he demands, I'm going to have a long talk with Gerard--I intend for Daphne to stay at Collinwood--and there's not a thing you're going to do about it.  I can take this matter to the divorce courts if you force me to, she warns him, you're in enough trouble without being involved in a romantic scandal--think of the effect that will have on Tad.  You wouldn't do that, says Quentin.  Oh yes I would, says Sam, quite frankly, I don't care whether your Daphne stays or leaves--you can have her by your side for the whole trial if you think it will do you any good--Tad is my only concern--and I don't want that girl around him--do you understand?  She gives him a last look and leaves.  Quentin leans back against the bars, exhausted.

Collinwood - Daphne reads a book in the drawing room and falls asleep in the chair.  She's wearing a nightgown, tosses her bridal dress on the bed, calls it the most beautiful room she's ever seen (it looks like Josette's room).  Gerard, I'm so happy, she exults.  She calls to him, but he doesn't respond, and she keeps calling to him, asking where he is--why has he left her alone?   The camera focuses on her wedding dress.  Daphne awakens.  It's happened again! she says--another dream!--but why can't I remember any of them?--and why are they so disturbing--why are they happening to me?--a room, there was a room I've never seen before--but where is it?  She goes searching and finds the room, pushes open the doors and turns on a lamp.Candles are lit, and it definitely appears to be a clone of Josette's room, but at Collinwood--and there, on the bed, is the wedding gown from her dream!

NOTES:  Those dreams are really something, and getting to Daphne in a big way--the previous one made her try to kiss Gerard.  Now, however, she's found something far more concrete--a real room and a real dress.  What it will all mean, where Gerard is leading her, seems pretty obvious.  Nice dress, too.

These courtroom scenes!  Is it me, or is everyone overacting all of a sudden?  There seems to be some kind of hysteria duel going between the defense and prosecuting attorneys, and it really got high-handed there for a while.  I didn't remember if the judges disallowed Sam's testimony, and I was sure they wouldn't given how unfortunate Quentin's been thus far, but that was a coup.

Where are Barnabas and Julia?  Shouldn't they be involved in all this?

Delicious fight scenes between Samantha and Quentin and then Sam and Daphne (your LOVER!?).  Samantha has a giant-sized secret, folks, that will really stun you.  She's truly is a bad lady, but so much fun to watch play with people she doesn't like.  She's embittered, perhaps rightly so, but trust me, she doesn't deserve much sympathy from or for the devil.

Two very lengthy episodes today, and my hands are tired!

Love, Robin

1161 - Gabriel grins greedily--Desmond, why are you looking at me that way? he asks--are you surprised?--did you ever think you'd see the day when I was my father's heir?  Let him read! orders Samantha.  Do, Desmond, says Gabriel, you must not make Samantha nervous--she's getting her hopes up.  Gabriel! chastises Edith.  "To my son, Quentin, I bequeath my father's timepiece which I had oft promised him."  Gabriel bursts into laughter.  His timepiece! cries Sam, is that all?  "I have come to believe my own son's guilt," reads Desmond, and therefore he is not fit to be my heir and carry on the family responsibilities so entailed."  You poisoned his mind! Sam shouts at Gabriel, rising from her seat.  He poisoned his mind as well! retorts Gabriel.  Desmond calls for silence--you wanted to hear the will, now listen to it.  Desmond continues, "The heir designated below will act as unofficial guardian of my grandson, Tad Collins, who, at the age of 21, if he is still alive, and in residence at Collinwood, will receive my entire estate--in the meantime, Tad Collins and his mother, Samantha are never to be denied room and board at Collinwood."  Gabriel turns to Sam--I'll see you get that, he taunts.  "Along with a weekly stipend to be decided upon by the said heir," reads Desmond.  "Should Samantha Collins choose to remove her son, Tad, from the estate, said heir will have no further responsibilities, monetary or otherwise, towards them."  You'll never get rid of us, Gabriel, promises Sam.  "As to the main deposition of the estate, continues Desmond, "monies, factories, fishing fleet, let me make it quite clear that I have considered carefully the results inherent in my decision--but I feel I have no other choice but to leave them until Tad comes of age to the man I regard as my rightful heir."  Gabriel leans forward in his wheelchair, anticipating.  Desmond reads, "My son--I have called him that because I have learned to love him as a son--Gerard Stiles."  Everyone is astounded.  Gerard? repeats Gabriel.  Samantha's face contorts with amazement.  No! she shouts, looking at Gerard, no!  Edith begins to laugh uproariously.I don't believe it! says a pretending-to-be astonished Gerard.  Don't you? asks Desmond.  This is what you've always wanted! shouts Samantha, what you've been working for from the beginning, I should have known--Tad will never live to be 21, will he?  She runs from the room, Gerard calling her name.  You said it was I! Gabriel accuses Gerard.  I told you, says a flustered Gerard, he said he had another son!  Samantha was right, says Gabriel, you made him think that--and you made little of me!  Who would have to do that, Gabriel? grins Edith.  I suppose I got nothing, Desmond? asks Gabriel.  Desmond reads--Gabriel, Edith and their children will always have a home at Collinwood--my heir, Mr. Stiles, will see to it that Gabriel receives an allowance commensurate with his needs.  My needs will be very small, won't they, Gerard? asks Gabriel bitterly.  Desmond reads, "As Gabriel's children are to receive certain monies at 21 from my late wife's estate, I make no further mention of them."  Desmond presses the bridge of his nose in exhaustion and disappointment.  Gabriel starts to wheel himself out--"Come on, Edith," he says.  I swear to you, says Gerard, this wasn't deliberate--I had nothing to do with this!--must we start off this way?  We started the day we met, retorts Gabriel, and I knew you wanted something here, I just didn't realize the scope of your ambition!  He starts to leave, but Desmond calls, "Wait!--there is something else that you should hear--in the event of the unlikely event that my original heir, my son, Quentin Collins, is declared innocent of all charges in his current trial, all monies, properties, commercial ventures are to be returned to him."  I'm happy he wrote that, says Gerard (not very sincerely).  Now all you're going to have to do is to see Quentin declared guilty, right? says Gabriel.  I told you once, Gerard reminds him--I will do everything in my power to see that Quentin is free!  Do you ever tell the truth? asks Gabriel--I don't think you ever do--I'm not going to accept this will, Desmond, I'm going to fight it!--AND YOU ARE NOT GOING TO GET ONE CENT OF MY FATHER's MONEY--YOU HEAR ME?  In his agitation and anger, Gabriel's left foot drops to the floor, and it looks as if he's going to rise from his wheelchair.  "Gabriel, you almost walked!" says Gerard.  Don't start that again, please, sneers Edith.  We're going to fight the will, says Gabriel--start proceedings at once!

Samantha's room - She twists a handkerchief between her two hands--Desmond, she asks, how did Daniel dare to make out that will?--if Quentin is proven innocent--IF!  I have great hopes of Quentin being proven innocent, declares Desmond.  I do not, she says.  The evidence against Quentin is purely circumstantial, he says.  What of the witchcraft? demands Samantha, of the fear of the people in the village--Lamar Trask--Mordecai Grimes?--once they give testimony, do you think Quentin is going to be released?This is a murder trial, says Desmond--Quentin isn't being tried for witchcraft--please let us work together in hopes of freeing Quentin, then the money will be yours and his.  Will my life be changed then? she asks bitterly--what do I do then, until that unlikely day?  I admit, the situation with Gerard in this house is difficult, says Desmond.  An understatement, pronounces Sam.  You loved him once enough to want to marry him, Desmond reminds her.  I didn't know him, she says, still twisting the handkerchief--he wants to be Quentin, he wants everything that Quentin has, and that includes me--that's quite an admission for a woman, isn't it, Desmond?--not even to be wanted for yourself--and now this monster wants to take charge of my child--I won't have it, I won't!--he's going to ask us to leave this house, and I know we won't--and then my child's life is in danger!--I must keep him away from Tad--please help me, Desmond, please!  Tad is in no danger as long as Quentin is alive, says Desmond.  Gerard Stiles is going to be very sorry that he was ever mentioned in that will, she vows.  Why do you spend all your time hating him when you could be helping Quentin? he asks--"Maybe hating is what you do best!"  Get out! she orders.  You are going to need a friend, he says.  It won't be you, she promises.  That would be your decision! he shouts, and starts to leave.  I'm sorry, says Sam--you don't know what it's like to be trapped in this house--I can't even take Tad and leave this place, can I?  No, says Desmond, if you do, you will receive no allowance or trust fund.  There's nothing I can do, she laments, nothing...nothing!  She sits on the bed.  Nothing except to rid yourself of this hate for Quentin, he says, and to try and help us!

Gerard answers a knock at the door--Charles Dawson.  Gerard grins.  May I congratulate you? asks Dawson.  Gerard puts a warning finger of silence to his lips--not quite yet, he says--this house still reeks of the agony of the vanquished--would you believe that inside the bedrooms lies little plotters working on their counter plots?--I haven't inherited a kingdom, but a kingdom full of vicious rebels.  All of whom you will deal with in good time, Dawson assures him.  Smiling, Gerard agrees--yes, of course--but right now we must go down to the village.  Gabriel wheels into the foyer.  Should we take your carriage, or "one of mine?" asks Gerard. "Your carriage, of course, Mr. Stiles," grins Gabriel, "and may I suggest the new one that arrived two weeks ago--no one's ever touched it, not even Father--and I think it would be fitting for you, being the new master of Collinwood, don't you?"  Dawson extends his sympathies to Gabriel, who says sarcastically, "I know where your sympathies lie, Counselor--are you two off to celebrate?"  If you mean by telling Quentin, yes, says Gerard solemnly.  Big bother in his cell, remarks Gabriel, what an appropriate place for him to hear the news--you know what?--he may kill you.  That would save you the trouble, wouldn't it, Gabriel? asks Gerard.  He and Dawson leave the house.

Jail - "And how is our prisoner tonight, Mrs. Ward?" Gerard asks Mildred.  I don't go near him unless I have to, she says--I can feel the evil the minute I go into his cell.  Oh, now Mrs. Ward, protests Dawson.  He's planning something, though, says Mildred, ever since that Mr. Desmond came to tell him about his father--he's been so quiet-like--it scares me!  He's probably in shock, says Gerard--may I enter the cell?--I know it's unusual, but I'd like to.  You're very brave, remarks Mildred.  Shrugging off his cloak, Gerard tells Dawson, keep Mrs. Ward company.  She unlocks Quentin's cell; Gerard goes in.  She re-locks the cell.  Quentin and Gerard clasp each other's arms in a gesture of friendship.  I came to talk to you about your father, says Gerard.  To have him die thinking we were enemies, laments Quentin--I mind that very much.  I know you do, says Gerard.  I shouldn't be here, says Quentin, I should be at Collinwood, trying to help--by the way, who told Tad?  Samantha, I believe, replies Gerard.  I should have told him, says Quentin--he was very fond of Father--I suppose Trask is in charge of the funeral.  Gerard nods.  Will I be allowed to attend? asks Quentin.  I'll do everything in my power to make sure you are there, promises Gerard.  I'm not going to be handcuffed, insists Quentin, I want that understood.  There is more disquieting news, reveals Gerard--the will has been read--Gabriel forced it--he wanted to find out if Daniel changed his mind--indeed he had--sorry, this is the only way I can tell you.  It's all right, says Quentin, I half-expected, I don't mind for myself, really, if I should just get out of this place, I can provide for Tad.  If you get out of here, says Gerard, you won't have to--if you're proven innocent, and indeed you will be--the whole estate reverts back to you.  But until then, Tad has to live in that house, says Quentin, with Gabriel lording it over him--I know that's a fine way to talk about my own brother, but believe me I know Gabriel and all his faults.  Gabriel won't be lording over Tad, says Gerard--the money, the estate and everything--he didn't get a penny.  Who did? asks Quentin.  "I did," reveals Gerard.You? asks Quentin.  I don't understand myself, says Gerard. You, says Quentin.  Daniel must have thought that as far as I was concerned, says Gerard, I would be in control of the money and put it in trust for you--I know he didn't trust Gabriel with it--he kept asking me about your innocence, I assured him that you were--Quentin, the money, the estate, everything, I know it's not mine, I will merely administer it until you're free.  Quentin looks at him oddly.  What's the matter, asks Gerard, you don't trust me?  Oh yes, I trust you, says Quentin.  Good, says Gerard, and as far as the work, I won't do one thing without your permission--I will see that Tad is totally undisturbed, and I will only act temporarily until your final release.  I will be released, you're sure of that, says Quentin.  Positive, Gerard assures him.  You know, Gerard, somebody is doing this to me, says Quentin.  And I will do everything in my power, promises Gerard, to make sure and find out who it is.  It's funny being here in jail, says Quentin, at least there can be no more killings, so whoever wants me in here can give me no more trouble.  Gerard has an "I wouldn't count on that" expression on his face.

Gabriel sits in the Collinwood drawing room listening to Edith rant: "Everything was going to be different!" she taunts.  Shut up! he orders.  She goes on, "You were going to be master of Collinwood!"  I'll kill you! he threatens.  "I was going to have to listen to everything you said!" sneers Edith--"I was going to have to beg you for anything YOU wanted to give me--but as usual, you have nothing to give--nothing!--I'm glad I did what I did!"  What did you do? demands Gabriel.  She doesn't answer.  They hear Gerard in the foyer making luggage and room arrangements.  He's here, in this house, mocks Edith--it belongs to HIM now!  Gabriel wheels himself to the foyer--Gerard, he says, I hope you don't mind if I save myself the embarrassment of welcoming you to Collinwood--sir.  Not at all, says Gerard.  I trust that big brother has doubts about you, too, now, says Gabriel.  I only wish your thoughts were as kind as Quentin's are, remarks Gerard.  Edith comes over and offers her hand to Gerard.  He clasps it, grinning--at least you welcome me, he says, kissing her hand--run along, Charles and I have some work to do--I'll need your help later.  She goes.  Gerard laughs as he enters the drawing room and drops his cloak carelessly on the sofa--"It is all mine, Charles!" he exults--"how do I look--quite the country gentleman--yes, it's all mine!--here, have yourself a brandy, have another, have as much as you want--everything in this house now is mine!"  For the moment at least, says Charles.  Yes, says Gerard, with less pleasure, the curious codicil in the will--if Quentin is proven innocent.  Everything is taken away from you, says Dawson, pouring drinks--and the case against Quentin is circumstantial.  Suppose he were tried for witchcraft and not murder? asks Gerard.  Dawson looks at him--no one has been tried for witchcraft in 200 years, he points out.  It's about time it happened again, says Gerard--things happen in cycles--yes, and if the case against Quentin is strong enough...  It's not, warns Dawson.  It can be, counters Gerard--Quentin said a very interesting thing to me tonight--now that I'm in jail, there won't be anymore killings.  The men chuckle together.  Killings, Charles, in the jail? asks Gerard--why do you laugh?  Oh, if someone is found dead in the jail, says Charles, no visible marks on the body.  Someone who is afraid of him, says Gerard, sipping his drink.  Mrs. Ward, suggests Charles, slipping a black scarf from his jacket pocket.  What is that? asks Gerard.  Her scarf, says Dawson, handing one end to Gerard, I pocketed it just in case you and I were thinking alike.  And indeed we are, says Gerard, smiling happily, indeed we are.

Desmond visits Quentin in jail, advising him, try to break the will by declaring your father insane.  I won't do it! insists Quentin, horrified   Quentin, warns Desmond, Gerard...  I know what you think about Gerard, but I disagree with you, says Quentin--after all, I am innocent, and I will get the money back.  And you think the man is capable of giving up all that? asks Desmond.  Gerard will, says Quentin confidently.  Your loyalty exceeds your good sense, says Desmond.  We see the shadow of Mildred Ward reflected in the translucent door leading into Quentin's cell.

Edith walks into a dark room lit by candles, Gerard and Dawson are there.  She exclaims over the place, thrilled.  You will learn to love it, Gerard assures her.  I know I will, she says delightedly.  And tonight, dear Edith, you will help us, says Gerard--in a way no one else ever could--a way that will show you you are finally a part of us--you must not be afraid.  I am not! she says with a smile.  You will hear my commands and you will obey them, says Gerard, down to every letter--and when you wake, you will not remember one single thing--you are merely an instrument on which we play the dance of death--tonight, you will live, where someone else will die.

Don't you look at me! Mildred orders Quentin.  Don't worry your little heart, Mrs. Ward, he says ironically.  I must have been feeling sorry for you, she says--I brought back your dinner that you didn't touch before.  Thank you, he says wearily, but I don't want any now, either.  She looks at him uncertainly.

Gerard holds Mildred's scarf over Edith's head and calls, "Satan, give me the power so that I may help you and secure revenge against your enemies."  He brings the scarf down to about Edith's chin level and says, "This is the devil's noose--the devil's noose and nothing ever escapes it--now Satan hear me, this, thy servant, I put the scarf around" (he arranges the scarf around Edith's throat) "but it will not hurt her--no, but the true owner of the scarf it will hurt" (he ties the scarf in a knot around Edith's throat).

"Funny," Mildred tells Quentin, "I feel something around my neck."  She covers her throat with her hands.  "You!" she cries, "You!"

Gerard ties the scarf around Edith's throat, chanting, "In that cell, you are feeling the powers of my hands!"  Edith moves her head uncomfortably.

"You're doing this--stop it!" cries Mildred, feeling the pressure increasing around her throat.  "What is it?" as Quentin.  Stop! she cries.  Finally, as Edith writhes almost in ecstasy, we quick cut back and forth between the two women, then both of them falling, falling to the floor.
Gerard rises from Edith's unconscious body--Dawson, he says, "It is done--and when she awakes, she will remember nothing and be perfectly all right--but Mrs. Ward..."

Quentin kneels beside Mildred Ward, calling her name.  "She's dead," he says.

NOTES:  This was one of the longest DS episodes I've ever Robservise!  It looks like Gerard has secured his position as master of Collinwood with this latest stunt--given that Quentin and Mildred were alone, and she is now dead, how will he explain it away?  Not only will Jim Ward but all of Collinsport be assured of Quentin's guilt as a witch--and perhaps a murderer for the second time.

Edith sure is an eager little beaver to help out in Satan's service, isn't she? (No pun intended.)

Loved the familial fighting between Gabriel, Edith and Samantha.  Given how unlikable they all are, it almost gave me pleasure to see Gerard awarded the bulk of Daniel's estate.  Of course, we know he manipulated the whole thing, but damn, I'd rather see the family dog, if there were one, get it all over any of these people!

Poor Desmond, caught in the middle of it all.  He's a nice guy, and these folks are just so greedy and nasty.  To hell with tradition, all they want to know is who's getting what.  Watching Gabriel taken down yet another peg gave me joy.  He killed his father and deserves nothing.


1162 - A horrified Trask finds Quentin kneeling over Mildred Ward's dead body.  I didn't do anything, says Quentin hastily--she must have had a heart attack.  You'll pay for this death, too, promises Trask, examining the body.  I didn't touch her! protests Quentin.  This is witchcraft, says Trask, the world will soon know it!--not enough to punish you for murder--you must be destroyed as the warlock you are!

Daphne runs downstairs at Collinwood into the drawing room.  You heard the news and came to congratulate me, says Gerard--yes, my dear Daphne, I really am master of Collinwood.  You really do enjoy upsetting everyone, she accuses him, don't you?  You're partially right there, he says, sitting down by the fireplace, but now I would like to explain myself so you would understand and maybe know me a little better.  I think I already know you well enough, she says.  You don't know me at all--yet, he says.  I know you took advantage of the friendship Quentin offered you to steal his inheritance away, she says angrily.  You're like everyone else, he says, but the truth is a little different--everyone thinks I've come here to spend the great Collins fortune, but they're wrong--he smiles--no, when Quentin returns, I will relinquish everything, most willingly and very gracefully--more gracefully than Gabriel possibly could--don't you believe me?  No, she says.  Why? he asks.  I don't know, she says.  You're going to have to trust me, he says, if we are going to have a nice future together.  We won't have any future together at all, she assures him.  You're wrong there, he smiles, when Quentin comes back, I shall leave Collinsport--but I won't be alone.  I don't know what you mean, Mr. Stiles, she says.  Eventually, he says, you will be leaving with me.  That will never happen! she says angrily.  There you are, says Desmond, entering, I'm glad I found both of you together.  I was just leaving, says Daphne.  Why? asks Desmond, is something wrong?  Yes, Daphne, is something wrong? repeats Gerard.  She looks down, not answering.  If there isn't, I would like to discuss Tad, says Desmond.  Ah, yes, a subject we're both interested in, says Gerard--I assured Quentin that I would look after the boy.  Samantha is afraid that you will upset the child, says Desmond--she wants you to stay away from him.  Really? asks Gerard, you're afraid I'll deliberately hurt the boy?--not acknowledge his existence when he enters the room?--he pours himself a drink--no, my dear friend, I'm afraid that boy is the only friend I really have--isn't that true, Daphne?  I don't think Tad should be subjected to anymore of this dissension, she replies.  And he won't be, either, says Gerard, if any comes, it will be from Samantha.  The front door bangs.  Trask rushes in--Desmond, he says,  it's good that you're here--I understand you're reviving your dormant careers as an attorney, while you and this poor, misguided girl here have resisted every clue to Quentin's true nature--but you can no longer.  What has happened? asks Gerard.  Witchcraft in the citadel of justice, says Trask, in the jail itself--I have just come from there--the jailer's wife is dead--and Quentin Collins responsible.  Desmond's face twitches with fury.

Witchcraft, scoffs Desmond--there must be a definite cause of death.  Yes, says Trask, a warlock named Quentin Collins--I suggest you go to your client, counselor, I'm sure he needs you very much.  I will go to him, simply to get the truth, vows Desmond--Lord knows I wouldn't believe you--he hurries out.  And neither would I! says Daphne, going into the foyer and beginning to cry.  Don't be frightened, begs Desmond.  I don't know whether what I feel is fear or anger, she says.  Let it be anger, suggests Desmond, there is no reason for fear.  Isn't there? she asks.  No, there isn't, he says, I'll be back as soon as I talk to Quentin.  I want to go with you, she says.  This should be a lawyer-client meeting, insists Desmond--will you be up later?  I'll stay up, she swears, I have to know how he is!  Desmond leaves.  Daphne, her hands covering her mouth, stands with her back to the door, horrified.

Drawing room - I certainly don't want any taint of witchcraft around Collinwood, Gerard tells Trask.  Come out into the open then, suggests Lamar, support me.  What a primitive mind you have, says Gerard--there are other ways of helping you other than repeating everything you say publicly--no, I think it would be best if I just remained in the dark shadows.  (How often has anyone actually said that?)

We see Quentin's shadow reflected on the cell wall as he asks Desmond, do you think Mildred Ward died because she feared me--or was it witchcraft?--and I don't mean my own--was she killed by the same person trying to destroy me?--I think of poor Jim Ward--his face when he saw his wife...  The coroner is performing the autopsy now, says Desmond, to establish the cause of death.  Supposing there's no viable cause? asks Quentin.  We will worry about that later! says Desmond.  You know, says Quentin, earlier tonight, I said to you, that at least since I was in jail, there would be no more killings--and now there's been another one.  (Didn't he say that to Gerard?)  You cannot be accused of murder because a woman was found lying dead here, insists Desmond--or because you were kneeling beside Randall's body--the evidence is all circumstantial!--you will walk out of that inquest tomorrow a free man--there is no case against you!  Trask claims he found a voodoo doll in my lab, says Quentin--he says that I used it to try and strangle you--and he's going to bring up the ring I wear, the one he says has the mark of the devil--the same mark on Lorna Bell--Trask isn't merely crying murder--he's accusing me of witchcraft!  Be sensible, says Desmond, you cannot be tried for witchcraft in this day and age, not since 1696, it is not legal!--the inquest tomorrow is merely to establish if there is any concrete evidence that you killed Randall Drew--and of course there isn't--I will ask them to throw the case out of court--and they will!--you'll be home tomorrow night a free man--faced with the problem of getting rid of Gerard Stiles.

Foyer, Collinwood - Gerard grins evilly--it's certainly good that Gabriel is in charge of his father's funeral, Trask--it makes him feel important.  Yes, it's really quite tragic it should come on the same day as the inquest for Randall's death, says Trask--no chance is there that Quentin is responsible for Daniel's death, too?  (Give it a rest, Lamar!)  None at all, says Gerard.  Then the Almighty spared Daniel, says Trask--will you be at the inquest tomorrow?  No, says Gerard, I have duties to attend to--you understand.  Perfectly, says Trask, we both have duties--tomorrow, how my poor, late father would have looked forward to it--I've always been convinced a Collins was responsible for his death, but never able to prove it--tomorrow, my father, wherever he is, will be smiling.  Trask grins.

Drawing room - Hopeful, smiling, Daphne asks Desmond, be completely honest with me--do you really think Quentin will be free tomorrow?  She hugs him, delighted, but draws away when she feels his response.  I think it's time to say it, he says with a rueful smile--once, not long ago, I had hoped you'd run to me because of me--Quentin's a lucky man.  You're so sweet, she says--what will happen when Quentin returns?  I need Leticia's second sight to see that, he says, but there's one thing I do know--these extraordinary incidents--this careful plotting against Quentin--it will not stop.  It must stop! Insists Daphne?  Why? demands Desmond, do you think whoever is behind it will be discouraged?--I don't!   I think it's Gerard that's doing it, says Daphne.  You think so, too, says Desmond.  I don't have any reason at all, she says, but he frightens me so, especially now that he's in the house.  Does he know how you feel about him? asks Desmond.  He doesn't know he frightens me, she says, he does know I don't trust him.  That's too bad, says Desmond, I was never really able to check up on him at Rose Cottage--he knew how antagonistic I felt--but perhaps you...  Looking uncertain, she suggests, I could watch him very carefully.  You must, insists Desmond, we need positive proof he's doing something wrong--otherwise, Quentin will never believe us.If it is witchcraft, says Daphne, then that means Gerard is...  That's right, says Desmond, unaware Trask is listening--are you afraid to try to trap him?  I won't let myself be afraid, she says.  Good girl, praises Desmond, now get to bed--nothing more can happen tonight.  They go to the doors.  Trask quickly moves away.  Desmond, says Daphne, as long as Gerard is in this house, something evil can always happen--I know that, though I don't understand  why.  Don't worry about tomorrow, says Desmond.  You've made me feel much better, honestly, she says.  Remember, watch Gerard, he reminds her.  He kisses her hand, then leaves.  She follows him to the door and sees him out.  Trask exits the kitchen area and stands there, smiling.

4:20 - So Trask, you say that Desmond and Daphne are plotting against me, grins Gerard--she won't be plotting for long.  Easy for you to say, says Trask, but I believe you're blinded by her beauty.  I will worry about her, Gerard assures him, you just go along and worry about the inquest--good night.  Good night, says Trask, and exits the drawing room.  Now, Daphne, says Gerard, taking from his pocket the witch's symbol, shall I show you more of the future that you're afraid of?--the dreams that you don't understand?--now, he says, holding it up, closing his eyes, "Sleep, and in your sleep, you will think of me, kindly, more kindly than you would if you were awake--so, now what is to happen?"
Daphne, fully clothed, lies on her bed, sleeping.  She dreams of many dripping candles adorning the foyer of Collinwood, of bridal music playing as she, dressed in a stunning white wedding gown, walks slowly across the landing.  She stands at the top of the stairs.  You must, she admonishes herself, you must!  You want to go through with it--you love him so much, when you see him, run to his arms!  Holding her bouquet, she walks regally downstairs and smiles at her groom, Gerard--who holds out his hand.  My darling, he says.  She goes to him, kisses him.  You want to marry me, he says--I can tell, as I want to marry you--I can think of no other life together, but you and me, you by my side as my wife--the powers, I will share them with you--now, come to me.  They kiss.  Daphne awakens with a gasp.  I must have had that dream again! she cries--why can't I ever remember it?  She opens her door and finds Gerard standing there, smiling at her.

Gerard licks his lips. What are you doing here? demands Daphne.  I thought you called me, he says.  I couldn't possibly have called you, she protests, I've been asleep.  You must have had another dream, he says, why don't you come downstairs and have a sherry with me?--it would relax you.  He takes a step toward her.  No! she cries, and closes the door in his face.

Courtroom - Desmond stands before one judge--on behalf of my client, he says, I wish to state that if he is held further and charged for a murder which is impossible to prove that he did, it will not only embarrass the state, but be an injustice to Mr. Collins--therefore, I request that the charges against Mr. Collins for the murder of Randall Drew be dismissed and dropped from the calendar court.  The judge, played by none other than Addison Powell, AKA Dr. Eric Lang, says, I have investigated the charges against Quentin very carefully--you will notice that I have not asked the prosecutor to be present here.  We have noticed, says Desmond.  The reason I did that, says the judge, is because there is no reason for it--I see no conclusive evidence pointing to a link between Mr. Collins and the murder of Mr. Drew--I hereby dismiss all charges--the case will not come to trial.  A relieved, smiling Quentin rises from his seat--thank you, he says.  The judge bangs his gavel.  We appreciate your wisdom, sir, says Desmond.  Quentin puts an arm around his cousin--I can't believe I'm free, he says.  You are not completely free as yet, warns the judge--Mr. Trask, you may enter, if you please.  Trask comes in and hands some depositions to Judge Wiley.  What depositions, your honor? asks Desmond as the judge shuffles through the papers.  Trask responds: Depositions testifying that Quentin Collins is a warlock.  This is a court of law, says Desmond as Quentin reacts with uncertainty to this accusation--a man may not be indicted for being a witch under the law in 1840.  The judge bangs his gavel, calling for silence--"I have not given the counsel permission to speak--I am going to peruse these documents in my chamber--court is adjourned until three o'clock!"  But you must explain, sir, insists Desmond.  I need explain nothing until I have perused the documents, insists the judge.  He leaves the bench.  But there is no law! protests Desmond.  Is your client above the law? asks Trask--because he is in league with the devil?

Tears runs down Daphne's cheeks as she stands before Quentin's cell--I can't believe they're going to bring up this charge? she cries.  Quentin takes her face in gentle hands--somehow, he assures her, we will get together. We have to! she says, drying her eyes.  We will, he vows.  Desmond enters--it's nearly time, he says.  Did you find anything in the lawbooks? asks Quentin.  Not a thing, says Desmond--I have no idea what Trask is up to.

Courtroom - Judge Wiley, have you read the depositions? asks Trask.  "I have," replies the judge.  All brought to you by a private citizen as prescribed by law, says Trask.  What law? demands Quentin, approaching the bench.  "Order in the court!" cries the judge.  Desmond joins them--Judge, he says, my client is only seeking his legal rights--he wants to know by what authority and action he is being held.  "I am not considering holding your client," says Judge Wiley, "I have no choice but to hold him."  Trask grins triumphantly at Quentin.  Judge Wiley continues, "Under the power vested in me according to the laws of this state, number 119 dated 23rd of April, 1696..."  There is no such law! interrupts Desmond, Maine was not a state then!  "Counselor," says the judge, banging his gavel, "I do not need you to tell me the laws of this state that I am honor-bound to withhold--the articles of our statehood specify that we keep those laws engendered upon us when we were a part of the royal colony of Massachusetts--therefore, in accordance with law 119, dated 23 April, 1696, a citizen can be charged with witchcraft if there are depositions from six citizens claiming from personal experience acts of witchcraft and naming the perpetrator of said evil--therefore, Quentin Collins, I hereby, by the power invested in me, charge you with the infamous practices of witchcraft."   "No," mutters Quentin.  Judge Wiley continues, "I order you to be held without bail or bond in the county jail--until such time as you come to a trial, under a special tribunal of three judges chosen specifically according to his law--upon completion of this trial, if you are found guilty, your punishment will be death in the manner prescribed by the law--beheading."

NOTES:  Is DS playing fast and loose with 19th century law?  Is all this true, or just a figment of the writers' imagination?  I would assume the latter.  I know a lot of people have been insisting that no one can be tried for witchcraft in 1840, but somehow, they've accused Quentin, and one has to wonder if it has any basis in fact.

I just want to murder Trask!  He's such an idiot, misguided and stupid.  When he overhears Daphne and Desmond discussing Gerard's possible part in all this, does he even consider for one moment that it might be true?  No, because he wouldn't want to admit to being duped, the narrow-minded fool.

Quite a pretty wedding for Daphne in her dream, huh, all those candles and white lace?  Given that he heads up a coven, would Gerard actually want a traditional wedding with one of his members?  What would Edith think of that?

Now Trask has what he wants, as does Gerard.  The fact that the latter refused to go public with his agreement with Trask's accusations of witchcraft on Quentin should also have alerted Lamar, but didn't.  There are none so blind as those who will not see, I guess.

We're really having fun, aren't we?

Love, Robin

1157 - Jim, asks a disbelieving Quentin--why am I accused of murder?--on what grounds?  That will all come out at the trial, the constable assures him (don't you have to explain exactly why you're arresting someone)?  What reasons would I have for killing that man? asks Quentin--can you tell me that?--a man has to have a motive for a murder!  From what I've heard here tonight, says the constable, it appears you might have a motive.  Of course I might have, says Quentin, putting down his glass, but I don't--can't you see what they're trying to do?--someone is trying to destroy me?  It will be better for all of us, says the constable, if you just come along with me quietly.  Quentin looks at him--all right, he says, but I'd like to see my son first.  Of course, says Jim, but try to make it brief, Mr. Collins.  Tad, come into the drawing room, calls Quentin. Yes, Father, says Tad, who politely greets the constable--is something wrong?  I'll wait outside for you, Mr. Collins, says Jim.  He closes the doors, allowing father and son privacy.  Why is the constable here? asks Tad--is it about Uncle Randall?--have they found the man who...?  No, says Quentin, they haven't found the man--a few people think they have, but they haven't--Mr. Ward is just doing what he must at the present time--I love you very much, you know that, don't you?--you know there isn't anything I wouldn't do to make sure you don't get hurt by anyone or anything--sometimes, under certain circumstances, the world seems very cruel at times, we have to be very strong and make it all good again.  (sniff!)  They're not going to take YOU away, are they? asks Tad.  Not for long, promises Quentin.  They don't think you did it? asks Tad.  No, says Quentin, holding his son's arms, but I do have to go away with Mr. Ward for a little while--I didn't do anything wrong, no matter what you might hear or see, I want you to believe nothing bad about me.  I know you didn't do anything, says Tad desperately, they can't take you away--you wouldn't do something like that.  He looks at his father with a wounded face and runs into his arms to give and get a hug.  Listen, boy, says Quentin, I'm going to be back here before you even know I'm gone--besides, between you and me, they don't have much of a case--while I'm away, I want you to cooperate with Miss Harridge, because she is very fond of you--can you do that for me?  Yes sir, answers Tad solemnly.  Good night, says Quentin, hugging his son again.  Tad says good night in return and opens the double doors, giving Ward a look before going upstairs.Are you ready? asks the constable.  In a minute, says Quentin, I'd like to talk to my son's governess.  I'm sorry, says Jim, but I can't allow that.  You've got kids of your own, Quentin reminds him, I just want to make sure he's taken care of.  I guess a few more minutes won't do any harm, admits the constable, but I must go along with you to find Daphne.  The two men head out of the drawing room.

Tad goes to Daniel--please don't let them take him away, he begs--you can't!  Calm down, urges Daniel, I don't understand what you're talking about--take who away?  My father! says Tad--they think he murdered Uncle Randall--they're taking him off to jail--now.  Horrified, Daniel mutters, oh, no, Quentin, dear God don't let it be true!

Quentin and Jim emerge from the kitchen area.  They haven't found Daphne; Quentin has no idea where she might have gone.  We can't wait any longer, insists the constable.  I've got to leave her a note, says Quentin.  They return to the drawing room.

Gerard looks out the window in his room.  Charles Dawson knocks and enters.  I just heard--why did you do it? asks Dawson.  Gerard, puzzled, says, if you tell me what you're talking about, I might be able to explain.  Why did you kill Randall Drew? demands Dawson.  Did I?  asks Gerard (why so coy?)  I just heard from Trask, says Dawson.  That I murdered him? asks Gerard.  No, that he is dead! says Dawson.  And you first assumed that I was responsible, says Gerard.  What did he know--what did he discover? queries Charles.  The fact is, says Gerard, Randall Drew discovered a little too much--he found the mask, broke open the lock on the box where I had it.  Then you had good reason to do away with him, agrees Dawson.  Yes, says Gerard--but I didn't murder him--difficult to believe, isn't it, especially after what I've done to Desmond and Lorna Bell, and of course poor old Mordecai's cows?--no, my friend, I did not murder Randall Drew.  But the devil's mark was on Randall, points out Dawson--and Mordecai, whoever followed him in the woods left it there.  I know that, says Gerard--it seems as though we have a friend--someone wanted Randall dead, whatever his reasons were doesn't really matter, because they happen to coincide with our cause.  One of the Collins, do you think? asks Dawson.  No, I'm sure it's someone quite on the outside of our little group, someone who wanted to hurt Quentin as we did, says Gerard--isn't it amazing timing?--soon Quentin Collins will have no head at all--and I will be master of Collinwood.  You forget Daniel, says Dawson.  No, my friend, not at all, says Gerard.  How do you plan to deal with him? asks Dawson.  Don't you really know? asks Gerard--you come to Collinwood with me and I'll show you what I plan to do to Daniel Collins.

Collinwood drawing room - I want to talk to you alone, Quentin, demands Daniel, who turns to bark at the protesting constable, "You, get out--he's my son, this is my house and you're not welcome in it--out!"  The Constable Ward leaves the room.  Quentin sits, shamefaced, but stands to face his father, who says, I said it over and over again--don't let it be true--how could it not be true?--I warned you against your strange fascination for the occult, your need to know things beyond what our finite minds are capable of comprehending, but you wouldn't be stopped.  You've been very ill, Father, says Quentin, please don't upset yourself.  Do you know that I went to the top of your stairs, where I saw you killing Lorna Bell?--does that mean nothing to you?  I only know someone has been filling your mind with evil distortions, says Quentin, pouring a drink, while you have not been well.  Who has been filling my mind?--who and why? asks Daniel.  If I knew the answer to that, says Quentin, everything would be all right.  I think not, says Daniel, there are too many unanswerable questions--what about Desmond?--is it not true you were fighting with him before he was stricken?  I simply had a disagreement with a friend, says Quentin.  And Mordecai's cattle--you've always hated him, continues Daniel.  I don't hate him, insists Quentin--he's an unpleasant man, but I didn't have anything to do with the death of his cattle.  How I long to believe you, sighs Daniel, but how can I?--everything points to your guilt, everything--and now this dreadful scandal--now that you have violated our family's honor!  Father, for the last time, I am innocent, please believe that! says Quentin.  That I should have lived to know such pain, such sorrow, laments Daniel, sounding as if he's having trouble breathing.He grabs his chest and collapses in Quentin's arms.  Quentin kneels beside him.

Gerard and Dawson enter Collinwood.  Is anyone here? calls Gerard.  Come in, Gerard! yells Quentin.  He and the Constable are helping Daniel to his feet, Daniel protesting, I don't want a doctor, Quentin insisting, you must have one!  Gerard helps them raise Daniel to his feet.  Help my father to his room, asks Quentin.  The Constable and Dawson escort the old man, who is muttering, "Oh, my son, please come back to me, please come back to me," slowly away.  Now what am I going to do, I wonder? Quentin asks Gerard.  You aren't alone in this, Gerard assures him--believe me, I will do everything in my power to make sure you get out of it.  You're very kind, says Quentin--look after Daphne (fox in henhouse)--I know she'll be needing your help.  I'll be more than happy, says Gerard.  Thank you, says Quentin.  The constable enters--Mr. Dawson is making your father comfortable, says Ward--Mr. Stiles, Mr. Collins would like to see you.  Thank you, says Gerard--Quentin don't worry about anything--try to forget it.  I'm afraid we've got to go now, sir, says the constable.  Everything seems so peaceful here, remarks Quentin, standing in the middle of the drawing room--I wish it was--let's go.  They leave.

Daniel's room - Daniel lies in bed, Dawson by his side.  Gerard enters--the Constable told me you wished to see me, he says.  Yes, says Daniel, thank you, Mr. Dawson.  Charles leaves.  Gerard sits beside Daniel.  You're a fine young man, says Daniel.  Gerard grins modestly.  I only wish that my sons, my SON could have turned out as well, says Daniel--I'm not a man who could cry out for help, but now I have no choice--I trust you, Gerard--I need your help.  I'm honored, sir, says Gerard, and if course I will do everything in my power to help you.  I knew you would, thank you, says Daniel--I've always disliked morbidity, but at the same time, I have a respect for practicality--I'm dying, Gerard.  You must not say that, Gerard insists--you'll be up and about in no time.  I know that I will not live to see my son's trial, says Daniel--I will die before I know what they have decided about him, but my greatest sorrow is that deep down in my heart, I know I cannot feel he is innocent, so other people must be considered--I feel I must change my will--it will break my heart, but Quentin must be cut away.  Gerard smiles slightly, triumphantly.  However, before I do this, says Daniel, it is necessary for me to know the truth--not what Quentin or the courts say, but the truth--there must be a way to establish the truth!--he grabs at Gerard's lapel, pulling on it, begging, say you will help me!  You know I will do anything to help you, promises Gerard--and to find the truth, we will--believe me, we will.

Police station - Quentin and the constable arrive.  Is that you, Jim? calls Mrs. Ward--where have you been?--you said you were coming right back--all the juice has gone out of the stew.  Mrs. Constable Ward, joins them, gasping when she sees Quentin (Mildred Ward is played by Elizabeth Eis).  What is HE doing here? she demands--why did you bring him here?  He'll be staying with us for a few days, says Ward.  What did he do? she asks.  We don't know that he's done anything, says the constable--will you open the cell, please?  I certainly will open the cell, she says, and the faster, the better--don't take your eyes off him, hold onto him until we get him into the cell.  She unlocks the cell door and opens it.  Quentin enters.  She closes and locks it, then turns to her husband and says, in a loud whisper, "Don't you know what he is?--he's a witch and you know it, he's a witch!"  Mildred, we don't know that, he chastises.  You know what he did to my father's cattle (Mordecai's daughter!)--isn't that enough?  This has nothing to do with Mordecai's cattle, insists the constable.  But isn't that enough? she asks--it's enough for me to know he's the one behind all the awful things happening around here!--I know one thing--I'm going to get an extra lock to put on that cell.  Oh, don't worry, Mrs. Ward, says Quentin ironically, peering at her through the bars, I'm not going to try and escape.  She spots the ring on his hand.  Jim, that ring--it's the devil's mark, she says, he's wearing the devil's mark--he's the one!--murderer!--murderer!  Quentin's face remains passive, but one can only imagine what's churning in his mind.

Collinwood - Gerard comes downstairs and enters the drawing room--Charles, he burbles, everything is splendid--how would you like to play a ghost?--we're going to have a little seance, and you will enact the part of Randall Drew--Daniel Collins wants proof of Quentin's innocence or guilt, and we're going to give it to him--of course, it will be fake, but he won't really know the difference.  But his condition, says Dawson, isn't the seance dangerous?  Yes, says Gerard, but you must not worry about that--you will be well prepared in every detail and movement--and every word.

Collinwood drawing room, seance table - Gerard, I'm not sure if I want to go through with this, says Daniel--you know my reservations on this sort of thing--I've always considered it evil--I'm frightened now, I know I agreed to it, but think I want to change my mind. Believe me, everything will be all right, Gerard assures him--relax, there is no danger involved, everything is quite harmless, and I am sure that when it's all over, you will be very pleased at the final results.  I know you're right, says Daniel--what do you want me to do?  They place their hands together in the unbroken circle--which must not be broken under any circumstances, says Gerard--relax your mind and concentrate very deeply on Randall Drew--we seek the spirit that died but yesterday--we mortals though we are, seek the spirit of one Randall Drew!--if you can hear me, respond!--can you hear me?--can you hear me!  Charles gasps.  That's all right, Gerard assures Daniel--the spirit is entering the body.  Spirit, can you hear me? asks Gerard.  Dawson says, "I can hear you!"  What is your name? asks Gerard.  "Randall Drew!" answers Dawson.  There is a man here who seeks your guidance, says Gerard, a man you have known and loved for many years!--his name is Daniel Collins.  Daniel, Daniel! calls Dawson.  Will you help this good man? asks Gerard.  I will, says Dawson.  Tell us the name of the man...  No, Gerard, cries Daniel, his face screwed up in misery, I don't want to know!  Mr. Collins, he's just about to tell, please! says Gerard--spirit, will you tell us the name of the man who murdered you?  I will, says Dawson.  Please, Gerard, please! moans Daniel.  The name! The name! demands Gerard.  Quentin Collins! says Dawson.  Daniel closes his eyes and screams NO!, then bows his head and begins to sob.Gerard rises and goes to his side, placing a comforting hand on his shoulder.  Daniel raises his head and softly says, I'm sorry I did that just now, I'm all right--I've always known the truth, it's the certainty that makes it so unbearable--I'm all right now, thank you.  I'm so sorry, says Gerard, I was expecting someone else.  We must live with it--as difficult as it is, says Daniel--I know now what I must do.  What is that? asks Gerard.  I must change my will, says Daniel, and choose a new heir.  Gerard smiles.

NOTES:  Loved Eis as the frightened Constable's wife.  She is such a hoot.  Do you think she'll give Quentin some of her dried out stew?

I remember feeling angry and helpless watching this storyline the first time around as Gerard manipulates Daniel to his own ends.  I still feel the same.  It's very frustrating to watch this warlock frame Quentin so easily, making the townspeople and his family turn against him.  Daniel doesn't seem to like Gabriel enough to make him the heir, so who will it be?

The Constable was very kind to Quentin, letting him stay far longer than most cops would, but you sense everyone in Collinsport has known each other for years--Quentin does call him by his first name.

Sad scene between Tad and Quentin, who really loves the boy, whether he is biologically his or not.

Quentin is incarcerated, and now will be tried for witchcraft.  Will he be beheaded, as Gerard plans?


1158 - 8:10 - Gerard enters the drawing room--Gabriel, he says, you seem a little troubled.--what's the matter?  Who says anything is the matter? asks Gabriel.  It was your account of things which led to Randall's murder and brought Quentin to jail, says Gerard--it's beginning to bother you a little now, isn't it?--what happens if he's proven innocent--what will your punishment be?--will he cut you off without a penny?--he grins--these are very disturbing questions for you, aren't they?--but as it happens, they are only academic.  What are you talking about? asks Gabriel.  I was just upstairs with your father, says Gerard, composing a new will--he has made a new heir--Gerard grins--and I know who it is.  Gabriel gazes at him, amazed.

Who is the new heir? demands Gabriel.  I'm afraid I can't tell you--you see, I kept my word to Daniel.  We both know your word is completely meaningless, says Gabriel, who is it to be?--it isn't Samantha, is it?  I'm honor bound not to tell, says Gerard.  Why would Father put you in his confidence? asks Gabriel--you aren't even a member of the family.  Your father confided in me because he trusts me, says Gerard, and he didn't want any of the family around while he was making his decision.  Gabriel grabs his coat sleeve--just tell me if it's me or not, that's all I want to know! demands Gabriel.  I thought our animosity towards each other would disappear, says Gerard--we've made a few mistakes, my friend, just a few--I thought we could learn from them, and help one another.  I don't believe any of this, chuckles Gabriel happily--I'm the new heir--you're trying to ingratiate yourself to me, because I'm the new heir!--because you can't afford me as an enemy.  I never considered you an enemy, Gerard assures him, holding onto his wheelchair and speaking earnestly to him--but I intend to keep my word to Daniel--but I don't suppose I'd be breaking my word if I merely quoted him--he would sometimes look up at me and say, Quentin Collins is no longer my heir, but I have another son.He leaves Gabriel grinning triumphantly.

Valerie paces the gazebo.  Laszlo appears.  What took you so long? she asks, peeved.  As he's about to explain--I only got your message an hour ago--she smacks him across the face--you liar! she says--you didn't come here because you didn't have any excuse for having failed me!--Roxanne has been destroyed, and Julia still lives to threaten me--all because of you!--you tell me what happened!  I went to the Old House to look for you, he explains, nursing his sore cheek--Barnabas Collins was there, he forced me to tell him where Julia was.  Barnabas had no way to know you knew that, says Valerie.  He's a very clever, dangerous man when he's angry, says the gypsy.  Barnabas had no reason to suspect you knew where Julia was, points out Valerie--how did he find out?--answer me!  I'm sorry, I had no way to know he'd see the ring, says Laszlo.  What ring? asks Valerie.  When I thought Julia was dying, I saw this ring she was wearing and I...  So you stole it! accuses Valerie, put it on your own finger where Barnabas would be sure to notice it--and understand everything!  I'm sorry, says Laszlo, I didn't know that Barnabas would find me--I'll make it up to you--tell me what you want done with Julia.  Strangely enough, says Valerie, Julia doesn't bother me now--something else has happened, something far more terrifying.  I've never known you to be frightened of anything, he says.  I have a good reason to be this time, she says--Judah Zachary has returned.  Who is that? asks Laszlo.  I'll tell you all about him, promises Valerie, and you listen and listen very carefully--because when one deals with Judah Zachary, there is no margin for error.

Collinwood - Daphne returns.  Gabriel greets her, "Well, well, the governess has returned--and where have you been, Miss Harridge?"  I went to do some errands in the village, she says.  You've picked a most inconvenient time to do them, says Gabriel--my brother has been most upset because he couldn't find you.  I see, she says, where is he now?--I'll let him know I'm back.  I'm afraid he's gone, he says--he was arrested about an hour ago--for the murder of Randall Drew.  (And he SO relishes giving her that news!)

Daphne, shocked, says, that's impossible--Quentin would never kill anyone!  So now it's Quentin, is it? he taunts--it's so fascinating to see your feelings out in the open.  I'm going to see him, she cries.  It's too late! cries Gabriel, for you and my brother!

Gazebo - Shortly after the trial of Judah Zachary in 1692, Valerie explains, I was given safe passage out of the country--and Judah was beheaded.  So you became what you are because of Zachary, says Laszlo.  Yes, she says--his powers are awesome, and I'm certain his spirit has lived all this time--and now it has taken possession of some living person--and he's in complete control of that person.  Do you have any idea who that might be? asks Laszlo.  Yes I do, she says--I believe it is Gerard Stiles--because he is the one who called me by the name Judah knew me as--Miranda--and the very next time I saw him was the night I had the vision of Amadeus Collins--the judge who convicted  Judah Zachary--a direct relation to the Collins family--that's why I'm sure Judah has come back--revenge!--he swore on the stand that he would return and destroy everyone responsible for his murder--that means everyone in the Collins family--and it also means me, she adds desperately.  You're convinced this vision of Amadeus was induced by Judah! says Laszlo  Yes, through Gerard Stiles, says Valerie--I'm not sure, I need some proof that he's the one.  How can you do that? he asks.  I can perform a simple ceremony, she says, but I must have some personal possession of Gerard's--his watch fob, yes, the one he wears all the time.  How are you going to get something like that? asks the gypsy.  I'm not, she says annoyed that he's missed the obvious--you are.  Laszlo starts to plead with her--I don't even know the man, or what he looks like, how can I be close enough to steal his watch fob?  You will meet Gerard before the night is over, she promises--and gives him her most severe look.

We see Quentin's shadow on the jailhouse wall.  He sits, then stands, sighs, coughs.  Mrs. Ward brings him a letter--someone left it, she says.  He snatches it from her hand--where did you get this? he demands.  I don't know, she says.  This letter didn't just materialize out of thin air, shouts Quentin, you've got to know where you got it--he grabs her by the shoulders and orders the horrified, open-mouthed woman, tell me who brought the letter!  I don't know who brought it or if anyone did! blathers Mildred  He shakes her.  Maybe it just appeared, she says, wresting herself from his grasp, yelling, "Witches know all kind of tricks!"  She stands back--don't think I won't tell my husband what you did to me just now.  All right! says Quentin, just get out, I want to be left alone.  Daphne enters.  WHO ARE YOU? demands Mildred.  She has come here to see me, says Quentin--I would like to see her alone.  If you had any sense, says Mildred, you'd have nothing to do with him!--she leaves.  Daphne takes Quentin's hands in hers.  They kiss through the bars.  I came as soon as I heard! she says.  I know, he says--listen to me, it isn't true--I didn't kill Randall. God, I know you didn't, she says, you didn't even have to say that!--what happened just now with that woman--why is she so frightened of you?  She brought me this, says Quentin, handing her the note.  She takes it--another note from Joanna, says Daphne, who reads: "This crisis shall pass, as all others have--and I shall love you as I always have."  She crumples it up--how is this possible? she asks.  I don't know, says Quentin, I don't know!  I'm frightened, she says--the people in the village are hysterical, talking of witchcraft, and saying it all started at Collinwood.  Trask started it all, says Quentin--he's very good at stirring up this type of thing.  They were talking of dispensing with an ordinary trial and setting up a special witchcraft tribunal, says Daphne.  He caresses her hair--it's all talk, he assures her--understand?--they outlawed such tribunals over a century ago--don't worry about it.  There's only one way all this can come out, says Daphne confidently --I know you're innocent, and a jury will know it, too.  You've only known me a short time, he says, you really believe it's impossible for me to kill someone?  I know it is! she says firmly--and one day soon, everyone else will know it, too.  They kiss.

Collinwood - Gerard answers the door to Laszlo, who comes in and cheerily bids him good evening, announcing, "Laszlo Ferrari at your service." On your way, gypsy, orders Gerard.  I come seeking a friend who lives here, says Laszlo.  I'm afraid gypsies don't have friends, says Gerard.  He does have a friend--me, says Gabriel, heartily welcoming the gypsy into the drawing room.  Valerie stands behind his wheelchair.  Gabriel introduces her to Laszlo--and this gentleman is Mr. Gerard Stiles.  Would you like me to look at your palm? Laszlo asks Gabriel.  By all means, says the latter, holding out his hand.  I see a change for the better in your future, says Laszlo--the signs are unmistakable--I see a major event in the offing.  Am I going to be pleased or displeased by this event? asks Gabriel.  I should say extremely pleased, says Laszlo.  The two men laugh together happily.  I'd like to give you a little something extra, says Gabriel--I'd like you to read Mr. Stiles' palm.  I'm not interested, insists Gerard.  I'm always most anxious to convert skeptics, says Laszlo--I'd be delighted to read your palm--for nothing.  Please, says Valerie, let him--I find it so fascinating.  I could never refuse a lady, says Gerard, grinning--gypsy, get it over with.  You have a most intriguing history, says Laszlo.  Good start, praises Gabriel.  Emotionally speaking, you're a man who has scaled the heights of happiness, but has also known the depths of sorrow, says Laszlo--there are clouded areas, I can't see them too clearly, perhaps another angle--yes, yes, that's much better--he moves in such a way that he's holding Gerard's hand but blocking Gerard's view of it--now, you've led a life of some conflict, Mr. Stiles--nothing has ever come very easily to you--there's no reason that should change in the near future.  Laszlo carefully reaches for Gerard's watch fob as he continues his fortune; Valerie watches him do it.  How long is this going to take? demands Gerard, suddenly scratching himself in the area where Laszlo was reaching for his watch fob--I have better things to do.  Only another moment, sir, says the gypsy, reaching again--you're an ambitious man, accustomed to getting what he wants--you've made your share of enemies, but you can instill fear in their hearts--he reaches again for the fob while a nervous Valerie touches her face in fear--Laszlo continues talking--you have no need to fear them in the immediate future--I see no sign of a setback in the immediate or distant future--you seem quite secure in your present phase of life (I don't see how Gerard isn't seeing/feeling Laszlo's hand reaching for the fob, but he finally snags it.)  Allow me to congratulate you, sir, says Laszlo.  Valerie smiles.  Laszlo has the fob securely in his hand.

Daphne sleeps, and dreams, tossing her had back and forth on the pillow.  Where's Daphne? Quentin asks Mildred.  She must have found out it's true, she accuses, pointing a finger at him--like the rest of us have known all along--she's right to stay away, so she stays untainted by the likes of YOU!  No, she told me she'd come here, says Quentin--the execution's got to be put off until she gets here!  The execution is going on as scheduled, says Mildred, you can't keep everybody out there waiting.  (Her exaggerated gestures and eye movements are really funny.)  Daphne! calls Quentin--where are you?--you promised me you'd come here--why can't I see you one more time before I die, why?--Daphne?--Daphne!-Daphne is in Gerard's arms, kissing him.  It's too late, says Gerard--besides, she doesn't care what happens from now on--there is no longer you and Quentin--from now on, it is you and me--you and me, Daphne--it doesn't matter whether he loses or not--isn't that right, Daphne?  She wakes up, breathing heavily--what did I dream, what was it? she asks...why can't I ever remember?

Gazebo - Valerie joins Laszlo, who is waiting there for her.  I'm glad it's over and I got through it alive! he exclaims.  Delighted, Valerie says, you didn't disappoint me--you performed like the professional thief you are--give me the watch fob.  He's going to find it missing, warns Laszlo, and he's going to suspect me--you heard his opinion of gypsies.  I'll tell him I found it on the drawing room floor, she assures him.  In the meantime? he says.  I'll wait until dark, then I'll perform my ceremony, she says, holding up the fob--before this night is over, I will know whether or not Gerard Stiles is Judah Zachary.

Collinwood drawing room - Daphne, I thought you had retired for the evening, says Gerard   I did go to bed, but couldn't sleep, she says.-Another bad dream? he asks.  Must have been, she says, I can't remember it, though.  It probably wasn't the dream that frightened you, he says, merely the apprehension of Quentin's fate--there's nothing we can do about that now--what will be, will be--if there's anything I can do for Quentin, I'm afraid the powers have already decided his destiny.  I can't understand you, she says, sometimes I think you really are Quentin's friend, and then there are other times I think you're the most untrustworthy of men.  Getting very close, he says, one of these days, you'll have to make up your mind about me.  One of these days, I certainly will, she agrees.  I already know what the outcome will be, he assures her, so I will leave it to you for a pleasant surprise--good night, Daphne.  He leaves the drawing room.

10:45 - Valerie sits by the fire, watch fob in hand.  Prince of Darkness, she says, I need your help now as I have never needed it in the past--I beseech you to allow the flames to show me an image--I hold in my hand an object--if this object belongs to the man who is truly my enemy, I beg you to show me his face--so I may know who he is--show to me Judah Zachary in the guise in which he now walks on this earth--reveal him to me, and I shall be forever in your debt!  Quentin's face comes out of the flames, stunning Valerie.-Unknown to her, Gerard stands at the drawing room doors, grinning wickedly, producing the vision she sees.

NOTES:  Once again, we have hopes that Valerie might be able to help Quentin; if she learns who is posing as Judah, she can warn everyone else.  It's unfortunate that she chose to do her spell with the doors open, so Judah/Gerard could overhear and make sure she saw what HE wanted her to see.  Another frustration for the viewer.  And frankly, the way Laszlo was so sloppily going for that fob, I'm shocked he wasn't caught.   Didn't it almost seem as if Gabriel was in on the caper?  When did he and Laszlo become such great buddies?  His encouragement to Gerard to let the gypsy read his palm seemed to fit in too well with Valerie's plans.

Something is scaring Angelique/Valerie.  It's interesting to see her feeling so vulnerable.  She seems more woman than witch now.

Elizabeth Eis continues to be wonderful, both in Daphne's dream, with her ridiculously exaggerated gestures and speech, to her fear of Quentin even though he's locked in a cell.  Quentin was unwise to grab her that way, because it only shows how violent he can become, and that's not good if you're accused of murder.

Isn't Gerard having fun baiting Gabriel with the new will?  Gabriel is certain he is the new heir, but he could be in for a rude shock.

Love, Robin

1152 - Desmond, fighting for air, accuses Gerard of doing this to him, insisting he doesn't want Gerard anywhere near him.  An upset, puzzled Flora points out that Gerard wasn't anywhere near him when he was stricken, so she doesn't understand how he can hold him responsible.  Desmond's choking becomes worse.  His mother asks what's choking him, and he says he doesn't know--you've got to do something, he gasps, but his panic-stricken mother doesn't know what she can do.  He sends her for Julia, but she doesn't want to leave him there alone, so she calls for Leticia to come--quickly!  Flora kneels beside her son again, wondering how he could have become so ill for no earthly reason--is there anything she can do to make him feel more comfortable?  It feels like something is around my neck, he gasps, and Flora loosens his collar.  Leticia comes in and is horrified to see Desmond's condition.  Flora tells her she doesn't know what happened.  Desmond wants Julia, and Flora tells Leticia to go get her.  She can't help him, says Leticia, the psychic gleam in her eye.  What are you talking about--Julia's a doctor! cries Flora.  He ain't suffering from any ordinary sickness, proclaims Leticia--it's the devil's work, I tell ya!  Flora says that's impossible and hustles Leticia out the front door.

Collinwood drawing room - May I assume you are anxious as the rest of us to find out how and why Roxanne became one of the living dead? Trask asks Julia, his hands posed in a praying position.  You may assume that, says Julia.  Then why do you immediately become hostile when I attempt to question you on the subject? he asks.  Julia stands and says she doesn't like the manner in which he questions her, nor the insinuations about her brother, Barnabas.  Who is still missing, by the way, says Trask.  He is not missing, says Julia, he was grief-stricken about Roxanne and is in seclusion for several days.  I hardly think the circumstances warrant seclusion, says Trask--the person who destroyed Roxanne's life should be found and punished, I should think Barnabas would be happy to cooperate with us.  I don't wish to discuss my brother any longer, if you don't mind, says Julia coldly.  Then let's discuss you and the ordeal you went through, suggests Trask.  What about it? asks Julia.  You said after you were attacked, you were taken to the abandoned lighthouse--who took you there?  Roxanne, of course, lies Julia (how ironic that she is forced to protect Valerie).  But Roxanne couldn't stay with you in the daytime; after she was gone, why didn't you leave the lighthouse? asks Trask.  Julia turns to him and says he is well aware of her condition--she was too weak to be moved.  Is that the reason--or were you forced to stay there by someone else? he asks.  You were the victim of an attack--did you meet the person responsible for Roxanne? asks Julia.  Of course not, he says.  Then why do you consider it so logical that I did? she queries, annoyed--I trust the subject is closed.  No, it is not closed until I get to the bottom of it, insists Trask testily--I'm sorry you could not shed any light on the subject--excuse me, I must go upstairs and see Samantha.  Julia sits, but not for long--oh, Lord, I'm so glad you're here! cries a breathless Leticia, you've got to come to Rose Cottage at once--it's Desmond, he's frightfully ill, he can't breathe, poor darling.  Julia runs to get her bag.  Leticia laments that now that she's met a man she really likes--a nice, kind, decent, lovable man--something happens to him--oh, Desmond, please don't die!  (This is sweet.)

Desmond's hand drops down; for a few moments, it appears he has died.  Flora comes in with a glass of water and shakes her son, who mutters, "Quentin, listen to me--it's dangerous business, I'm warning you, stay away, stay away!  What's dangerous? begs Flora--can you hear me?  "Quentin, stop!" cries Desmond (obviously something Gerard has him saying).  Why are you calling for Quentin? wonders Flora desperately--what's happening?  She holds him.

The clock strikes eight.  Leticia paces the drawing room in Collinwood.  Julia comes downstairs, and Leticia tells her she has a carriage waiting outside.  The front door opens and Valerie walks in.  She and Julia stare at each other, Valerie amazed, Julia defiant.  (It must give Julia such satisfaction to have outwitted the witch.)

Why it's my dear sister in law, says Valerie, I haven't seen you in ages--I'd almost given you up for dead.  As you can see I'm very much alive, please excuse me, says Julia, and she and Leticia move to leave the house.  Valerie shuts the door, stopping them, insisting that she and Julia have so very much to talk about.  Leticia begs her not to detain them, it's an emergency.  Yes, says Julia, Desmond is very ill and needs immediate medical attention.  All right, go on your errand of mercy, I suppose we can talk later, says Valerie.  The other two women leave, but not before Julia and Valerie exchange another glance.  Valerie goes into the drawing room, wondering how Julia escaped--Roxanne would never let her go!  She goes to the window and looks out, calling to Roxanne to appear to her.  Outside, a storm rages over the countryside, but Valerie gets no response.

Flora checks anxiously on Desmond and is grateful when Julia comes in with Leticia.  Julia examines Desmond and asks how long he's been this way.  Almost two hours ago, says Flora.  Has he been unconscious all this time? asks Julia.  No, says Flora, he's been awake most of the time, and at one point he even almost choked to death.  Julia checks his throat and observes he seems to be trying to choke again now.  Flora asks if he's going to be all right, her face twisted with concern. Leticia, who loves him, is equally worried.  Julia reports to Flora that there is nothing physically wrong with Desmond.  How can you say that? asks Flora--he can hardly breathe!  There's no sign whatsoever of any constriction of his throat, explains Julia.  I don't understand, says Flora.  I do, says Leticia, I understand it, all right--it's the devil's work, that's what it is.  She kneels beside Desmond, putting his hand against her face.  The poor soul, she laments, who would want to hurt him?--such a dear, gentle man he is--who would want to do a thing like this to him?--something occurs to her, and she says it's someone not far from here.  Julia asks what she means.  Flora says that Leticia is starting to see something.  Yes, says Leticia--she sees a doll, sitting on some stairs, with something wrapped around its neck--Desmond's ascot--the doll has the ascot tied around its throat, says Leticia--she rises and declares, "It's black magic!--Someone is using black magic on him!"  Where is the doll? asks Julia.  I only know it's not far from here, says Leticia--sitting on some stairs--but she didn't recognize the stairs in her vision!

Collinwood - Valerie continues to call Roxanne, ordering her to answer her call and appear to her.  She is gone, realizes Valerie, I can feel it--she's gone--Julia must have destroyed her!  Trask enters the drawing room, hoping he isn't disturbing her.  Not at all, she says.  I've been looking for Samantha, he says.  I haven't seen her, says Valerie.  I hope you don't mind my saying this, says Trask, joining her on the seat beside the fire, but I can't help having noticed that you always seem to be alone--I mean, without your husband.  He has his interests and of course I have mine, says Valerie.  I should like to know a great deal more about your husband's interests, says Trask.  Why don't you ask him? she suggests.  I would if I could find him--do you know where he is?  She looks away from Trask and says she really doesn't.  Apparently no one does, he complains--he seems to have completely vanished--one is inclined to wonder why.  Perhaps he's at Rose Cottage, suggests Valerie, helping his sister with the emergency--Desmond Collins was taken quite ill this evening.  Trask smiles triumphantly.

Rose Cottage - Leticia caresses the chair in which Desmond was sitting.  A weary Flora enters, and Leticia asks her if there's been any change.  The nurse will let us know if there is, says Flora--I told her not to leave him.  I don't understand why Julia had to leave, wails Leticia.  You heard what she had to say, says Flora--there just wasn't anything she could do for him. Trask comes in and says he just heard the news about Desmond, he's here to offer his help.  Flora tells him there's nothing he can do to help--no one seems to know what's wrong with him.  There is one person who knows what's wrong, insists Trask--the man who caused it--Quentin Collins!  He smiles.

What are you talking about? demands Flora.  I told you once before, says Trask, that Quentin is a warlock--he uses supernatural means to deal with his enemies.  Quentin has no enemies in this house, insists Flora.  Are you going to tell me that Desmond was taken ill for no reason at all? asks Trask.  I don't know what the reason is or who is behind it, admits Flora.  Trask asks her if she knows Desmond and Quentin had a quarrel earlier this evening.  Don't be absurd, says Flora, walking away.  Hands on hips, Leticia informs Trask that Quentin and Desmond are quite good friends, Desmond told her so himself.I understand Dr. Julia Collins came to examine Desmond, Trask tells Flora--what was her diagnosis?  She said there was nothing physically wrong, says Flora.  Then my instincts were correct, weren't they? asks Trask--the moment I heard about Desmond, I knew he was a victim of witchcraft!  Flora says she accepts the idea of witchcraft, but not that Quentin is behind it.  Trask asks why she accepts one and not the other.  I know Quentin too well, replies Flora, and I believe in Leticia--a while back, she had a vision--she saw a doll with one of Desmond's ascots wrapped around its throat.  Where was this doll? Demands Trask of Leticia, who answers that she'd rather not talk about it with him, if he doesn't mind.  Leticia, I demand you  tell me! he shouts, grabbing her arm.  Take your clammy hands off me! she commands, pulling out of his grasp.  Desmond may be dying, says Trask--if you know the source of the black magic that is killing him, it is your solemn obligation to tell me--you don't want to be responsible for Desmond's death.  I saw the doll, she admits, nothing more--sitting on some stairs--but she doesn't know what stairs, she cries, she's never seen them before!  He asks her if they were in a room.  I told you, I saw the doll and the stairs, that's all! she cries.  Trask asks where the stairs led to?  They didn't seem to lead anywhere, she says, just some steps going up from the floor.  Stairs leading no where? muses Trask--thank you, Leticia, thank you very much.  He hurriedly leaves, Flora in pursuit, asking if he knows where the stairs are.  He promises to be back later, and doesn't reply when Flora insists he tell her what he knows.

Julia enters Collinwood and accuses Valerie of killing off the entire Collins family because she failed with her.  What on earth are you talking about? asks Valerie.  You know what I'm talking about, says Julia, witchcraft!  Valerie stares at her.  Suppose you explain this curious accusation, suggest Valerie.  Is it necessary to explain? asks Julia venomously, Desmond Collins is dying--and not of any natural causes--but because of witchcraft.  So naturally you suspected me, says Valerie bitterly.  I didn't expect you to admit it, says Julia.  Valerie insists she has never harmed anyone simply for the sake of harming them, and I have never met this Desmond Collins.  Julia is perplexed--if you're not responsible, then who is?  I don't know or care, says Valerie, but what I do care about is Roxanne--how did you destroy her?  I didn't, says Julia, I suddenly was free--I learned later that he brother, Randall, had kept her out of the coffin at sunrise--she is at peace, Angelique!  Valerie, I'm known as Valerie now! whispers the witch, closing the doors.  Only until your true identity is discovered, says Julia.  You dare to threaten me? demands Valerie, advancing on her.  No, says Julia, there's no point in threatening you, I couldn't risk exposing Barnabas--someone is using witchcraft against Desmond Collins, and I think it would be to your advantage to help us find out who it is.  Why do you say that? demands Valerie.  Because if anything happens to Desmond Collins, there will be an investigation by the family and the authorities, points out Julia, everyone will be questioned, including you--suppose in this investigation, the truth about you becomes known--and you will become the one accused--think about it--Angelique.

Trask quietly enters Collinwood, looking around to make sure no one is there, and enters the kitchen area.

I suggest you go by the door and waits in case someone tries to come in, Valerie tells Julia.  Julia asks her how long she thinks it will be.  Valerie doesn't have any idea--she will simply try to contact whoever it is using black magic, there's no guarantee she'll succeed.  Julia goes to stand by the door, leaning her back against it.  Valerie sits by the fire, asking the flames to carry her thoughts--to the one who is like me--to the one who understands my way of life--whoever you are--wherever you may be--let my words enter your thoughts--reveal yourself to me--send me an image by which I may know you.  She sees in the fire the head of Judah Zachary and is terrified.  It disappears.  She rises, terrorized, covers her eyes with her hand.When Julia asks her what she saw, she claims it she saw nothing at all.  Julia doesn't believe her, not from her reaction.  I was reacting to a vibration, says Valerie, whoever your witch is, he is hostile to me as well.  Julia doesn't believe she's telling the truth.  I've told you everything I know, insists Valerie, clearly upset--there's nothing more I can do!  Julia, forehead creased, stares at her, then opens the door.  Oh and Julia, says Valerie, just because I agreed to help you this once doesn't mean anything has changed--I shall deal with you when the first opportunity presents itself.  Without a word, Julia walks away, but her response is evident in her body language.

Trask enters Quentin's laboratory and looks around.  He spies the staircase Quentin built, and on a stair, finds the doll with Desmond's ascot wrapped around its neck.Trask picks it up and triumphantly says, "Now no one can refuse to believe the truth--it is here in this laboratory--I have final proof at last that Quentin Collins is a warlock!"

NOTES:  This isn't good!  Gerard cleverly placed the doll in Quentin's lab, on the staircase, and Quentin isn't going to be able to easily explain it away.

Isn't Leticia's fondness for Desmond cute?  You can sense she hasn't been in the company of too many nice guys, and it's great that she appreciates him for what he is.

Now Valerie knows she is in trouble, too.  She has seen Judah's face in the fire, knows he is the warlock who choked Desmond--but she doesn't confide in Julia.  She seems terrified.

Trask sure is relentless in his pursuit of Quentin--and Barnabas, too.  I wonder where Jonathan Frid was during this time period?

I love the Julia-Valerie scenes, but you'll notice that Valerie did relent and attempt to help Julia.  Now Valerie might find herself in a position where she needs some friends!  But this is the first sign of a softer, kinder Valerie yet to come.


1153 - Desmond lies in bed, clutching his throat.  Having found the doll with the ascot tied around its throat, Trask stands in Collinwood's foyer.  Daphne comes out of the kitchen and asks him what he was doing in Quentin's lab.  You must be mistaken, says Lamar.  I'm surely not, says Daphne, I was standing in the kitchen and saw you come up the cellar stairs--Mr. Collins never allows anyone down there when he isn't here.  I suggest you forget you saw me this evening, advises a nervous Trask.  I shall do no such thing, Daphne assures him, I intend to tell Mr. Collins you were there.  Very well, says Trask, if you wish to be in league with the devil in this house...  With the devil? She demands.  Or perhaps you're already in league with him, says Trask, and that's why you're so anxious to help him.  I'm sorry, says Daphne, I don't understand what you're talking about.  All right, says Trask, reaching into his cape and producing the doll (with the ascot still wrapped around its throat; doesn't he care about saving Desmond?)--you may tell Quentin Collins I found his evil weapon--the one he has been using against Desmond Collins--and you may tell him I shall bring the wrath of God down upon him--I shall rid this house of the witchcraft with which he has defiled it!  Daphne stares, wide-eyed, at Trask.

Daphne asks Trask what that is.  You know as well as I do that it's a creature of the black arts, says Trask--a voodoo doll, and it has something of Desmond's wrapped around it.  Where did you find it? demands Daphne.  In Quentin's lab, says Trask, and as soon as I get back to Rose Cottage with it, Quentin's attempt to kill Desmond will be stopped!  Quentin would never try to kill anyone! says Daphne hotly.  Trask tells her the Almighty will never look favorable upon one who follows Satan.  Daphne informs him she won't listen to any of this, she's going to find Quentin this minute and tell him. Yes, shouts Trask after her, go warn him--for all the good it will do!  She heads to the study and Trask leaves the house.

Daphne returns to the drawing room, does not find Quentin, and goes upstairs, but before she gets far, someone knocks at the door.  It's Randall, and he introduces himself to Daphne after a moment's hesitation.  Yes, you're Mrs. Collins' brother, won't you come in, says Daphne.  You must be the new governess, says Randall, I'm looking for Quentin.   Daphne explains she's been looking for him herself; she doesn't know where he is.  I see, says Randall.  Daphne excuses herself, saying she'll go look for Quentin and Randall can wait in the drawing room.  He asks her if they know each other from somewhere.  Daphne says she doesn't believe so.  I'm almost certain I've met you before, he says--what is your name?  Daphne Harridge, she replies.  He says her name and says that nothing comes back.  She smiles in relief.  I'm not good at names, he says, but I always remember faces.  Quentin returns.  Daphne tells him something terrible has happened at Rose Cottage--Desmond's very ill, and Mr. Trask was here, saying all kinds of things...  Quentin squeezes her arm, interrupting her.  Randall listens closely.  Take it easy, says Quentin, come in here and relax.  He notices Randall and asks if he's here to see him.  Yes, says Randall, but it can wait until later--what's all this about Desmond.  Daphne says she doesn't know; Trask made it sound as if he were dying.  What else did he say? asks Quentin.  He said things I'd rather not repeat in front of anyone, says Daphne, I'm very sorry, Mr. Drew.  It's all right, says Randall--he'll go to Rose Cottage to check on Desmond, and will see Quentin later.  I'll be there in a few minutes, says Quentin, we can talk then.  After Randall leaves, Daphne reveals to Quentin she saw Trask exiting his laboratory--he had a doll with something of Desmond's wrapped around it--he said he found it down there and Quentin was using witchcraft to make Desmond ill--I know none of it is true...  Do you know where Trask went? Asks Quentin.  To Rose Cottage, she says.  Quentin hurries out, ignoring Daphne's questions about what he's going to do.  He's gone into the storm.  Daphne closes the door, concerned.

Trask comes to visit Gerard, telling him he found what they were looking for--he holds up the doll--here it final proof that Quentin Collins is a warlock!  (And the ascot still strangles Desmond!)  Gerard surveys the doll with disbelief. Trask remarks that Gerard still seems to have doubts.  I have no doubt about where you found the doll, says Gerard, but I wonder if this constitutes a final proof against Quentin--somebody could have planted this doll in Quentin's laboratory with the hopes that the blame would fall on Quentin for what has been happening around here.  Why are you still so determined to defend him? asks Trask.  How do we know, asks Gerard, this doll is responsible for Desmond's illness?  The ascot, points out Trask, see how it's tied around the doll's neck as if to choke it--just as Desmond is choking.  Only one way to find out, suggests Gerard.

Desmond, still choking, calls to Quentin, stay away, he begs, it's trouble, trouble--she doesn't know, she's innocent--leave her alone, let her live her life.   His eyes are closed, so he doesn't see that Trask and Gerard have entered his room.  Gerard unwraps the ascot from around the doll's throat and Desmond is all right.  It's astonishing! proclaims a smiling Trask.  Desmond sits up, asking what they're doing here--why is he in bed?  You were very close to death, says Trask.  Desmond is astounded--he remembers becoming ill, he couldn't breathe--it was as if someone were choking him--but he was downstairs.  You were brought up earlier this evening, says Trask--how do you feel now?  Desmond says as if he were suddenly released--the pressure on his throat is gone--why was it over so suddenly, he doesn't understand.  Trask tells him he has the weapon that was causing it, but first, does he recognize the ascot.  It's mine, says Desmond, where did you get it?  Trask explains that it was tied around the neck of this figure--you seem to recognize this, too--tell me, where have you seen it before--to whom does it belong--you must tell us.  It once belonged to me, says Desmond, I picked it up on a trip to South America years ago--when I returned (Desmond's lips are trembling), I gave it as a gift to Quentin.  Trask and Gerard both grin.

Rose Cottage - Randall paces the drawing room.  Quentin enters and asks where Trask is.  Upstairs, with Gerard, in Desmond's room, says Randall.  How is Desmond? Asks Quentin.  I'm waiting for someone to come down and tell me, says Randall.  Angrily, Quentin assures him he won't have to wait much longer--he's going to drag Trask out of that room.  You can't go up there in that frame of mind, insists Randall, you'll upset Desmond, besides, you might do something you'll regret later--Trask will be coming down soon--wait here.  I suppose you're right, says Quentin.  What happened to get you so angry? asks Randall.  Quentin explains that Daphne caught Trask sneaking around his lab, looking for something he could pin on him--in his own home.  Why don't you have him arrested for breaking and entering, suggests Randall, it might slow him down a bit.  I'll decide what to do with Trask after I see him, says Quentin.  Randall sits down and begins looking at the Tarot cards.  Quentin asks him what he wanted to speak to him about.  I'd rather wait until after you've seen Trask, says Randall.  All right, if you wish, says Quentin.  I couldn't help noticing your new governess seems quite devoted to you, says Randall.  Quentin says yes, she's a lovely young woman.  Funny, says Randall, but I can't get over the feeling that I've met her before.  Quentin looks at him, his eyes veiled, and says he doesn't think that's possible.  Everything's possible, says Randall, I learned that four years ago--with Joanna.  Randall, says Quentin, let's not talk about the past--it's all over.  Randall tells him not to worry about him--he accepted all that long ago--he never thought it would be possible for anything to come between me and Joanna--but then she met you and suddenly life changed for all of us--I don't know if you still see her, and I don't care anymore.  I couldn't see her if I wanted to, says Quentin.  What do you mean? asks Randall.  She's dead, says Quentin.  Randall stares at him, stunned.  Yes, says Quentin, she committed suicide six months ago.  Suicide? asks Randall--oh God, why did she do it?  I don't know, I was at sea when it happened, says Quentin guiltily--I've been asking that question over and over.  Joanna gone? asks Randall--why, she was so lovely, so...  What's wrong? asks Quentin.  Your governess, Daphne, I DID meet her before, says Randall, it was a long time ago--she was only a child then--her face was almost the same then as it is now--that girl is Joanna's sister!  Quentin doesn't say anything.  You already knew it! says Randall.  Yes, I knew it, admits Quentin.  Does Samantha know who she is? demands Randall.  No, says Quentin, and I beg you not to tell her because no good can come out of it.  You mean YOU have nothing to gain if Samantha finds out, says Randall, and everything to lose--you installed her in that house, didn't you?  Listen to me, demands Quentin.  Don't bother to deny it, says Randall, I've see the two of you together at Collinwood, and I know it's true!  All right now let me explain, insists Quentin.  There's nothing to explain, says Randall, it's all quite clear--you've already ruined the lives of two young women, now you want to ruin the life of a third!  Quentin says he doesn't know the truth.  I've known the truth since the day you took Joanna away from me, says Randall angrily, I just could never admit to myself you had some insane compulsion to destroy!--I've seen what you did to Samantha, you've killed Joanna, and now you want to destroy her young sister!  Trask has come downstairs while the men are arguing, and he hides something on a chair under a cloak, then enters the drawing room, where Randall is warning Quentin that he isn't going to  let him ruin this young girl's life--I'll do whatever becomes necessary to stop you!  Trask enters the room and asks Randall if he has any idea how dangerous it is to threaten Quentin Collins.  Randall looks at Quentin, who gives Trask a dirty look.

Quentin advances on Trask, saying he's going to give him one more warning and that's all--you stop all this talk about witchcraft and stay out of Collinwood!--if I catch you back on my property, I'm not going to be responsible for what's going to happen to you.  You deny the voodoo doll I found in your lab belongs to you? asks Trask.  Quentin says he doesn't deny anything--he does happen to have a so-called voodoo doll, but the last time he saw it, it was in his room.  Your so called voodoo doll had an ascot of Desmond's tied around it's neck, says Trask, and when that ascot was removed from around its neck, Desmond, who was choking to death, suddenly made a miraculous recovery--then he identified the doll as belonging to you--I'm sure his testimony will be very interesting when he tells it to the authorities.  You listen to me, insists Quentin, I don't care what you think Desmond said--he knows I would never do anything to hurt him and I know he would never say anything against me--if you found that doll in the lab, you had to have taken out of my room and planted it there (right church, wrong pew)--because that's the only way you can ever prove anything against me--and if it's not too much inconvenience for you, if it is my doll, I would like to have it back.  So you can work more of your evil ways with it?--no, says Trask, I'll keep it in a safe place to be used as evidence against you.  You'll be jailed for breaking and entering before you can do that, promises Quentin--I'm giving you one last warning--you stay off my property or the next time I won't stop with words!  Quentin stalks out.Trask watches him go upstairs, then retrieves the doll from his cloak on the chair.  He shows it to Randall, asking if he can't feel the presence of evil.  Don't you think you're going to far, Trask? asks Randall.  Trask says one can never go far enough pursuing the followers of Satan.  Why should Quentin want to harm Desmond? asks Randall--they're very close--everyone knows that.  Not as close as one might think, reveals Trask--earlier this evening, I came in the found them in the midst of a violent quarrel.  About what? asks Randall.  (Something was cut.)  At 10 o'clock tonight, says Trask, I'm going to present my evidence against Quentin to the police--I need your help--the help of someone unbiased--you must help me stop him.  I'm sorry, says Randall, but even if this doll is Quentin's, I still can't find it concrete evidence--someone could have planted it there to implicate him--I'll go talk to Gabriel and the others at Collinwood, and if I believe Quentin is guilty, I'll meet you at the park in town at 9:45--if I don't believe it, I shan't appear.

Collinwood drawing room - Daphne reads another of Joanna's letter to Gerard:  "I have seen my Quentin again, but he was not alone--I beg you, do not make the same mistake I made."  That's the second letter you received, points out Gerard--where did you find it?  Just not in my room, before I came down and found you here, she says, but how could it have gotten there?  I think the answer lies in the supernatural, says Gerard.  Perhaps you're right, she says--Quentin and I held a seance tonight, and something did appear to us.  Was it Joanna? He asks.  I don't know, she says, but I think it was--she wants me to leave here.  Gerard says he doesn't like seeing her distressed and upset.  I can't help it, she says.  He smiles and comes closer, putting his hands on her shoulders, saying he doesn't want her to be--she's a very special woman to him--things are going to change for her, he knows it--and he will help her change.  She moves away from him.  He pursues her, turns her around, and tells her there's a new world awaiting her, one of beauty, power and terror.  He touches her face, saying she will achieve all of it--and he will help her.  He touches her face, her chin, asking her to let him help her.She kisses him, a big, long one, but she pulls away, asking why he did that.  Why did you let me? he counters.  I didn't, she insists--I don't know.  I do, he says.  How can you claim to be Quentin's good friend? she asks--how would you like it if I told him what just happened?  But you won't tell him, will you? asks Gerard.  Quentin returns.  Gerard greets him.  Quentin comes in and tells Daphne he spoke to Trask; he doesn't know how much good it's going to do.  Daphne looks at Gerard and Quentin notices it and asks if something has happened here.  Daphne looks at Gerard and tells Quentin she received another note tonight.  She hands it to him.  Gerard says he'll leave them alone, he's sure they want it to be that way.  Good night, Quentin he says.  Good night, Daphne, he says, giving her a significant look.  He leaves.  Daphne is disturbed.  Quentin promises her they will find out how all this is happening.  I know we will, says Daphne.  This note isn't the only thing bothering you, is it? he asks her--something happened while I was out--what?  She turns to face him, but is silent.He touches her face and asks what happened.  Nothing, just the note, says Daphne.

Rose Cottage - Randall hands Desmond a brandy and asks him if he and Quentin quarreled tonight.  Desmond says they did, why?  Randall says that's why Trask thinks Quentin did this to him.  Desmond scoffs at the whole idea--that's ridiculous--they must be objective about this--Quentin is his closest friend, and they both know he isn't capable of something like witchcraft.  Then how do you explain the doll? Asks Randall.  I can't, says Quentin sipping his drink, I only know it wasn't Quentin.  Who do you think is responsible? Asks Randall.  The man who was the subject of our argument--Gerard Stiles, says Desmond, his face angry.  So that's the argument Trask overheard, says Randall.  I'm going to tell you, says Desmond--don't ask me for proof, because I can't give any, but I suppose it's wrong for a lawyer to rely on instinct alone--I have no proof--not a hint of evidence--but my every instinct tells me there is more to Gerard Stiles than meets the eye!  (There is another sloppy cut here.)  Randall leaves Desmond's room.  Desmond feels his throat and takes a nice, deep breath.

Rose Cottage - Randall searches Gerard's room, opening drawers, looking in the closet.  He finds a box in a drawer and opens it.  Inside is the mask of Baal.  Randall gazes down at it.  Someone enters the room.  Randall's puppy dog eyes fly open wide.

NOTES:  I like Randall, he's an up and up guy, fair and just.  He had a fight with Quentin about Joanna and Daphne and has every reason to think him a bad guy, a witch, whatever, but he listened to Desmond's ideas about Gerard and checked his room.  Will it mean his end?  Will he connect the mask with Gerard in the right way?  We'll soon know.

Daphne's getting to kiss two handsome men in these episodes, and really seems to enjoy it.  Who wouldn't?

Trask is being led around so easily by Gerard, being manipulated like a puppet.  It makes Trask a joke, but a dangerous one to be sure.  Will Randall meet him at 9:45?  Or will something happen to yet another member of the Drew family?

I can't believe that Trask found that doll and didn't immediately remove the ascot.  He had to keep Desmond choking so he could use his recovery as proof?  What if Desmond had choked to death in the meantime?  Sloppy writing there, because Trask was certain that ascot was choking off Desmond's airway, and he SHOULD have stopped it right away.

There were at least two sloppy cuts in this ep, and I wonder what was taken out.  I hate watching the shows with commercials.  I really must finish my MPI collection!

Love, Robin