556 - Angelique sits up in her coffin, opens her gorgeous eyes and stares around, realizing what has happened to her. Upstairs in Nicholas' house, looking stunning in black and white, she asks him why he made her a vampire. You were a nuisance as Cassandra, he answers, smirking--but may be useful to me this way.You can't be this cruel, she says, I'd have preferred death to this. Nicholas, grinning wickedly, says Barnabas Collins probably felt the same way a number of times. She's pissed at him for the grin, chastising him for torturing her, but he says he enjoys the irony of poetic justice. She was so anxious to make Barnabas revert to what he was and now she has his affliction--that's poetic justice. He tells her she may stay as she is indefinitely, and is irritated when she begs him, "Please!" He finds begging so boring. She says this isn't fair, but he says as Cassandra she never helped, she was always a hindrance who disobeyed him. How can I redeem myself? she asks. Follow my orders, he says--you are totally my slave and will do only what I tell you. She agrees. He will choose her victims, and she won't attack anyone unless her tells her to. She must resist the blood craving, he warns--she is to stay away from Barnabas or suffer the consequences. He's concerned about Barnabas because of Adam, because of his plan. When she asks about his plan, he informs her slaves aren't supposed to ask questions. Angelique apologizes. He decides to share it with her because even thinking about it pleases him (such ego!). He's going to create a race of superbeings who will serve his master and control the world. He knows where the power is. Adam came to exist as a human being created by another human being, just as Adam was the first of his kind. Nicholas uses a scale to show her what he means. He will set the balance on his side. The original Adam had sons, borne to him by Eve. All of HIS Adam and Eve's children will be controlled by their master, just as Adam is controlled by Nicholas. Angelique points out that this Adam exists alone. True, says Nicholas, but Julia Hoffman does know, and Barnabas will persuade her to go ahead with another experiment. If they refuse, asks Angelique. They will agree, Nicholas assures her confidently, because control is mine, the power belongs to me--Victoria Winters. He dumps the remaining coins on one side of the scale, sending it plunging down on HIS side.

In the room, Vicki bangs on the door, crying for help, and finally sinks to the floor in depair, crying.

Angelique answers a knock at the door. It's a really cute member of the Collinsport Police Force, asking to see Nicholas. She invites him in, explaining how busy Nicholas is. She tells the cop she's Nicholas' "secretary", and he says he has questions about Thomas Jennings. Oh, the fellow who was attacked, says Ang, she read of it in the paper, and it was dreadful. She knew him slightly--he did some work for Mr. Blair, some electrical wiring and was working there the night he was attacked. (Angelique is checking this guy out like a box of chocolate, her eyes huge and hungry.)He notices her scrutiny and mentions it; she apologizes. She says she was doing so because he's so handsome. She sits on the sofa, and he tells her she's the best looking secretary he's ever seen. She invites him to sit next to her, pointing out that they're obviously attracted to each other. He sits, she reaches a hand up to his shoulder, then another, and is going in for a bite when Nicholas interrupts. Like a teenage girl caught making whoopee on the sofa, Angelique hastily covers her mouth while the cop explains he came to ask about Mr. Jennings, who is still alive, in a coma, but not expected to live. Nicholas says he's sorry to hear that, and Ang looks uncomfortable. The cop asks what time Tom left the house, and Nicholas says 8:30, quarter to nine. He didn't mention meeting anyone and left alone, saying he'd return the next day. The cops thanks him for his time, and Nicholas assures him he's at his disposal if necessary. The cop leaves and Nicholas tells her what she was about to do would have been a bad mistake. I didn't do it, she says, Bart Simpson--like, and he points out that's only because he stopped her. The temptation was overpowering, she complains, but he reminds her of the rules. He tips up her face and says, "You disobeyed me the first chance you got." She asks what he's going to do, and he says he could deny her her coffin, forcing her to face the sunrise, but he won't do that--he'll forgive her, but only because he has something for her to do, and if she EVER disobeys him again. . .she says she'll do whatever he asks. He orders her to go see Vicki--and make it a terrifying experience!

Vicki lies on the bed, sobbing. The door opens and Angelique, dressed in 18th century garb, enters the room. "So we meet again," says Ang. You aren't real, assets Vicki. Ang assures her she is quite real. It isn't possible, you're dead, protests Vicki. Ang giggles--she isn't a ghost, and asks Vicki to touch her and prove she's made of flesh and blood. She takes Vicki's hand, proving her ghost is flesh and blood. You are real, says Vicki, but you died in 1795--is it possible?--have I gone back in time again and am living in 1795. It's possible, says Ang, and might be true. Ang can't tell Vicki why she's there or who is keeping her. It must be a dream protests Vicki, but I can't wake up. Ang says it's no dream, she really exists in this place--perhaps you're lost in a void in time suggests Ang, caught between present and past but belonging to neither.Vicki refuses to believe this. Ang says she's come to help her escape. Vicki wonders why, considering how vicious and cruel Ang has always been to her. Huffy, Ang starts to leave, but Vicki says she'll accept anyone's help. Angelique demands Vicki's engagement ring; she'll take it to the man she loves, and through it, he will find her. Vicki refuses, and Ang says she can't help her--and she's the only one who can. Vicki asks where she's going--why would Ang take her ring if she isn't trying to help her? Angelique explains she doesn't exist in time, and wordily possessions mean nothing to her. Vicki fears she wants it because it's her last link with reality, and refuses to give it up. So be it, say Ang, turning to leave. She won't come back, and neither will anyone else--Vicki will face eternity in the room because she refused her help. She bids Vicki goodbye and says she pities her. Vicki tells her to wait, and says that while she still doesn't trust her, if there's one chance in a million she's telling the truth. . .reluctantly, she drops her cherished ring into Ang's hand. The man you love will find you, Ang assures her. Yes, give it to Jeff, begs Vicki, so he'll know I'm alive. This name is strange to Ang, who tells her Jeff Clark doesn't exist, only Peter Bradford. Ang takes the ring, leaves, and locks her in. Vicki bangs at the door, begging her to explain--tell me what you mean--you have to explain it to me! She hears only Angelique's cruel laughter, mocking her.

Nicholas walks through the woods, calling for Adam, who appears beside him. Nicholas orders him to go to Barnabas, tell him he's holding Vicki, and he must go ahead with the experiment or Vicki will die. He gives him the engagement ring as proof they are holding her--once Barnabas sees it, he will surely go ahead with the experiment.

Barnabas sits at home, reading, wondering where Vicki is and what's happening to her. Is she still alive? She's got to be! Adam appears in the room and tells him they'll talk. Barnabas demands to know where Vicki is, and Adam assures him she's safe. He won't tell him where she is, but he gives him her engagement ring, proving he knows her whereabouts. She's still alive, for now, says Adam. You can't hurt Vicki, protests Barnabas, she's done nothing to you. But you have, says Adam, by refusing to do as I ask. Barnabas says it's impossible, he can't create a mate. "You made me live," points out Adam. I had very little to do with it, says Barnabas, Lang created him, Julia completed the experiment that gave him life. Then Julia can do it, says Adam, but Barnabas says she won't even think about it. Then Victoria Winters will die, insists Adam. Barnabas argues with him--he can't do that, Vicki is innocent. "You love her!" accuses Adam, and Barnabas retorts, "You can't kill Vicki simply because you hate me. Kill me." No, says Adam, he wants him to be lonely always, and if refuses to create a mate for him, Barnabas, too, will be lonely always. (I guess Nicholas hasn't mentioned that a man can love another if the first love dies, a definite blank in his education.) Barnabas tells Adam he cannot do this.Decide, orders Adam, by tomorrow night, or Victoria Winters will die. "Adam!" calls Barnabas. "Adam!!" But the big guy leaves Daddy alone, contemplating Vicki's engagement ring.

NOTES: Nicholas isn't very smart, and it appears that Angelique already is easily fooling him, apologizing for being bad, but still fully intending to be bad. His trusting her AGAIN, giving her guidelines under which she must live as a vampire, will prove to be the worst mistake he ever makes.

Adam is so obnoxious now. I liked him innocent, yearning for Carolyn.

Clever way to get Vicki to give up her engagement ring, huh? Send in Angelique to confuse the already-confused girl, then get the proof they need that Adam is holding her. The ball is in Barn's court now.


557 - Barnabas soberly gazes at Vicki's ring, then calls to Adam to come back. Adam does so. Barnabas asks if he knows where Vicki is. Adam will only say the ring proves he is holding her. Barnabas says he can't give him an answer now, and Adam follows him into the house and slams the door. He asks him if he loves Vicki, to which Barn replies of course--that's why you kidnapped her--what you're doing is monstrous, adds Barn. Adam feels it's fair. Barnabas loves and can be loved, and Adam wants the same--what would Barnabas' life be like without love, asks Adam, to be alone and lonely, and not wanted by anyone--"then think of Vicki, and you will give me what I want or never see her again!"

Barnabas sits in his usual chair, miserable. Julia stops by and says he looks exhausted. I've been up all night, explains Barnabas, who tells her that being rid of Cassandra hasn't ended their problems; they're just beginning. He tells her about Adam's threat--he has Vicki and will kill her if they don't create a mate for him. They have no choice, insists Barnabas, but Julia says they can't. She knows he's worried about Vicki, but another experiment is out of the question. You did it before, points out Barn, but Julia says she merely finished what Lang had started. Barn reminds her she has Lang's journals, but Julia says she wouldn't do the experiment if she could. Look at what Adam has done--the thought of a mate for him is frightening, says Julia, they'd be responsible for creating a race of monsters.Then you are willing to let Vicki die? asks Barnabas. Julia wants them to learn who put Adam up to this. Who? Stokes or Nicholas, suggests Julia, but Barnabas doubts Stokes is responsible. Julia knows they took Adam in, protected him--but why? They should visit Stokes and check it out. Barnabas wants Julia to take care of other problems--such as Tom Jennings--while he goes to see Stokes. Barnabas tried to visit Jennings in order to look at the wound on his throat, but wasn't allowed in. They both know what the man is suffering from, but Julia says the thought of a vampire is too terrifying to contemplate. When that man dies, says Barnabas, he will become a vampire, which will result in the whole town being in trouble. Barnabas figures with Julia being a doctor, they will let her see Tom, so he sends her on her way. There is a knock at the door before Julia leaves. It's Jeff, who insists Barnabas speak to him--about Adam.

Barnabas admits to knowing the name Adam. Jeff comes in and Barnabas tells Julia to go on. Jeff wants her to stay, but Barnabas says she must go. It will only take a moment, says Jeff, who is staring at him. He wonders why they aren't asking about Vicki. Jeff explains that early this morning, one of the sheriff's men saw a man resembling Adam running through the woods. Jeff knows of Adam and some of what he's done, but it has occurred to him that this Adam could possibly be Lang's creation. That man was superhuman, as Adam is reputed to be, and when Lang died, there were no accounts in the papers of a body being found in his lab. Either someone took the body or someone finished the experiment for Lang and brought his creation to life. Jeff knows they were involved in the experiment, so. . .?Barnabas denies they finished the experiment. Jeff says if Adam is Lang's creation, he could be the reasons Vicki's missing, making them responsible. Barnabas says Jeff's first theory is the correct one--they disposed of the body after Lang's death, burying it in an unmarked grave. Jeff says it's weird Adam fits the description of the man Lang made. Jeff reminds them Adam escaped jail, leaped from Widows Hill, survived a gunshot wound, killed Sam Evans and nearly killed Joe Haskell--quite a track record for an ordinary human being! screams Jeff. Barnabas again assures him Adam isn't Lang's creation. Jeff says he has no choice but to believe them, but his tone belies what he says. He must see Adam himself, says Jeff, one good, close look, and he'll know if the man is Lang's creation. Jeff leaves Barnabas and Julia staring at each other in concern.

Stokes is reading, monocle in his eye, when someone knocks at the door. "Go away, go away, there is no one at home," he mutters (LOL, love this man!), then, when the knocking continues, says, "Damnation." It's Barnabas. Stokes knows he'll come in even if he says no. Stokes wishes Barnabas had called; he detests unannounced visitors. We need your help, says Barnabas, which has a familiar, unpleasant ring to Stokes. Barn tells him of Vicki's disappearance. Stokes is surprised. Do you know what's happened to her? asks Barnabas. Stokes suggests he's taken leave of his senses. Barnabas wants to bring everything out into the open, and Stokes demands to know what he's talking about. Vicki has been abducted by Adam and is being held prisoner, reveals Barnabas. This stuns Stokes--why? Barnabas asks if he knows, but Stokes assures him he doesn't. Barnabas says Stokes could be poisoning Adam's mind--he did hide him and teach him, after all. Stokes doesn't deny this, he felt sorry for Adam, and more important, he had faith in his potential for learning. His aim was to broaden Adam's mind, not poison it. Stokes confesses he did tell Adam of his origins, and Barnabas informs him that Adam now expects Barnabas to provide him a mate. Stokes asks Barnabas if he didn't have some basis for thinking Barnabas created him, but Barn says it's too complex to explain. Stokes says that's usually true in matters concerning Barnabas, who is very miserly with his information (get him, TS!). The point is, says Barnabas, that Adam has abducted Vicki and threatened to kill her if he doesn't meet his demands. Stokes says he never anticipated this, and admits he's partly responsible for what happened. There was no evil plot, but he did tell Adam the truth about his origins--because he felt he had to know. Why, asks Barnabas, but Stokes says he can't tell. Barnabas says he had better, but Stokes reminds him that considering his and Julia's lack of cooperation in the past, it's ungracious of Barn to demand answers from him now. Stokes is aware of the danger Vicki is in, and promises to see to it that she isn't harmed. Stokes admits to knowing where Adam is, but won't tell--I have a better chance of getting through to Adam than you do. Barn will go to the Old House and wait for Stokes to speak to Adam.Stokes adds to bear in mind that if he and Julia were the only ones involved, he'd allow them to stew in their own juices, but he does want to help Vicki. If the situation has gotten too far out of hand, warns Stokes, his best may not be good enough.

Collinwood - Stokes goes to Adam's room. Adam asks what he wants and Stokes says he must speak to him. Stokes asks him where Vicki is, but Adam denies even knowing her. Stokes tells him not to deny it, he knows what Adam wants and what he's done to get it. He taught him it was wrong to lie, why is he lying now. Adam denies lying, but Stokes says he doubts Barnabas would fabricate such a story and told him everything. "Barnabas will be sorry!" says Adam through gritted teeth, but Stokes reminds him that hurting the innocent is wrong. Adam feels getting what he wants is all that's important, and Stokes asks him if the end justifies the means--he never taught him that. There are many things the professor didn't teach or tell him, accuses Adam. Stokes asks where Vicki is, but Adam refuses to tell him. He assures him she's safe. Stokes says sooner or later the police will find Vicki, and Adam asks him if he's going to the police--he'll hurt him if. . . Use your head, begs Stokes, remember what I taught you. He can't go to the police, or he'll be placing Vicki's life in more danger than it is now. Adam admits that's true and tells Stokes to leave. Stokes notices a remarkable change in Adam--what caused it? Stokes himself, by what he told him, says Adam. No, says Stokes, I didn't make you depressed or embittered, and don't believe what I told you would have turned you into a cynical, scheming person--who else has been guiding you, telling you things that will harm you? He's only talked to Carolyn, says Adam, but Stokes accuses him of lying again. "Goodbye, Professor!" roars Adam. Stokes says that perhaps what he wants from Barnabas is right, he can't pass judgment on that, but what's wrong is using Vicki, an innocent person, to get it--Vicki had nothing to do with this and isn't responsible for his loneliness. Barnabas loves Vicki and will give me a mate because he fears what will happen to her, points out Adam--if it's wrong to hurt innocent people, then why did Barnabas hurt me?--once, I didn't exist, then Barnabas gave me life, now I exist and am nothing. "I want to be something--I want to be loved!" rages Adam, nearly sobbing."And I will have a mate and she will love me or Barnabas will be punished by seeing Vicki die!"

NOTES: In a way, you can see Adam's point. He feels Barnabas betrayed him in many ways, and now is refusing to give him someone he can love the way Barnabas loves Vicki. But Adam is also aware that Vicki loves Jeff, not Barnabas, so can't he figure out that love isn't necessarily a two-way street and a mate created especially for him might not love him?

Stokes is fabulous, kind, reasonable, intelligent--so much better than Barnabas' bull in a china closet approach. Stokes listens to Adam, to Barnabas, pieces the story together the best he can. You can see he's on Adam's side here, but he doesn't want Adam to get into trouble for kidnapping/murdering Vicki in order to get what he wants. Both Stokes and Barnabas know someone else is working on Adam, and have a pretty good idea who it is.

When Stokes baldly informs Barnabas that if this problem didn't involve others, he wouldn't help, and you've got to love the man for that. He's so honest it hurts, but both Barnabas and Julia deserve that kind of honesty, given that they're so closed-mouthed themselves.

Love, Robin

552 - Barnabas is quite surprised at Adam's request. It's impossible, he says, but Adam says he can and will. It isn't within his power to create life, says Barnabas, and he didn't create Adam. Lang found the way to artificially create life--that is the truth. Adam refuses to believe, but Barnabas says he can't do it because Dr. Lang is dead. When did he die? demands Adam, and Barnabas explains it happened two days before the experiment. Then Lang didn't give him life, points out Adam, Barnabas did. Barnabas explains he was part of the experiment himself, he understand how difficult life has been. While he sympathizes, he can't help him. Adam refuses to believe him. If he came alive two days after Lang's death, someone else completed the experiment. Barnabas notes Adam is capable of reasoning, but not understanding. "It was you who finished his work," says Adam, but Barnabas denies this--it was Dr. Hoffman who completed the experiment. Adam orders Barnabas to get her and she will help him. It isn't that simple, explains Barnabas, try to understand. Adam understands only one thing--he can't be happy until there is another like himself. He has great strength and a good mind, but he also gave him strong feelings with which to love--but what good it is to love, if he can't be loved? (good point.) If Barnabas creates a woman for him, he'll take her and go away and never see or trouble him again. But if he doesn't do this. . .Willie interrupts this discussion, asking Barnabas if he can go into town tonight. Adam greets him, and Willie whirls around, terrified. Adam assures him he won't hurt him. Willie asks what Adam wants, and is shocked at how well Adam speaks now. Adam says he wants nothing from Willie, just Barnabas. Barnabas tells Willie to go downstairs, but poor Willie can't get over how well Adam communicates now. Defiantly, Willie tells Adam to take his learning somewhere else; he and Barnabas don't need him. Adam tells Willie he doesn't need HIM, but he does need Barnabas. Barnabas won't explain the situation to Willie but tells him to go downstairs. Willie is about to go, but Adam stops him--stay, Willie, maybe you can convince Barnabas to help. Barnabas tells Willie that Adam wants him and Julia to create a woman for him. Willie calls Adam crazy, but Barnabas assures him the big guy isn't crazy. I knows what I want, insists Adam--it can be done, it will be done, and very soon. Barnabas says he can't believe Adam came up with this idea alone--who helped you? No one, says Adam, and Barnabas says now he is the one who is lying. Who else knows of Adam's origins? asks Barnabas. No one else, states Adam--I have to leave and I want an answer. Barnabas says he can't give him what he wants. Adam says he doesn't believe that. He'll give him time to change his mind, until 9 PM (20 minutes hence).

Jeff, smiling confidently, arrives at Collinwood. Vicki answers his knock and flies into his arms. He told his boss he was sick, which is technically true--he's lovesick, a very bad case. Vicki leads him inside. He wanted them to go out, he says, to dinner. She says she's also going out, she wasn't expecting him--she's going to the Old House to see Barnabas.Why, asks Jeff, and she says she wants to tell him about their engagement. Jeff asks if she still feels that close to Barnabas, and she insists he's her friend. Does he have to be consulted on what you do? asks Jeff, why are you in such a hurry that Barnabas know?--he's also in love with you, Jeff points out, but that couldn't matter, could it? She asks if he's jealous of Barnabas, and he tells her not to be ridiculous. She and Barnabas are friends and she wants to tell him this important piece of news. The fact Barnabas is in love with her is something he can't change, but the fact that she is in love with Jeff is something Barnabas can't change. Jeff seems relieved, and tells her to go along; he'll go with her for protection. She reminds him Cassandra and Nicholas are gone, so there isn't any danger in the house or outside any longer. They kiss; she tells him to wait there for her--she won't be long. He's grinning as he stares at the clock, which reads 8:55.

Nine PM, the same time Nicholas gave Cassandra not long ago. Barnabas is sitting in the chair, Adam is right next to him, reminding him it's now nine o'clock. Willie stands watching. Barnabas says his answer is the same-no. Then I will leave now, Adam says. Barnabas asks why he must leave, where is he staying, who's been protecting him--is it Stokes? Adam won't give. He got his answer and that's all he came for. Barnabas promises him the same protection he's been getting, with him. Adam says he doesn't trust him and wouldn't stay there again. Barnabas asks Adam to stay long enough for him to get Julia. Why? Asks Adam. I don't want you to leave not trusting me, thinking I had lied, explains Barn--if you stay and sees Julia, you'll learn why we can't grant your request. Adam knows Julia is Barnabas' friend and will lie for him. Barnabas comments that whoever has been teaching him hasn't done him a favor by making him so cynical. All Adam knows is that he knows what he wants can be done, and Barnabas has the power to do so, but refuses."You will be very sorry, Barnabas, for your decision you will be VERY sorry." "Adam," says Barnabas sternly, but the big guy walks out the door, leaving it open. Willie tells Barnabas he must stop Adam, but Barnabas says there's no way to do so. Willie has a way, and retrieves the rifle. Barnabas orders him to put it away, but Willie argues with him--Adam threatened him and Willie, and they have to get Adam first! Barnabas can't harm him; he's heard the tape recording.Barnabas explains about Lang's message, and Willie recalls the tape David brought to the Old House a couple of weeks ago, looking for Julia. He asked a lot of questions about Barnabas, and Willie sent the nosy kid home. Barnabas says what is on the recorder is important to him, vital to his survival. Willie doesn't care about that, they have to find Adam and get rid of him permanently, and won't be safe until he is dead.

Adam walks through the woods and hears rustling. Vicki comes by, stops, goes on. Adam starts to walk away, then decides to follow Vicki. He sees that she is heading for the Old House.

Barnabas is pleased to see Vicki and invites her in. Adam spies through the window, peering in. Barnabas tells Vicki that now that Cassandra is gone, he'll spend more time at Collinwood. She says she wanted him to be the first to know of her impending marriage; Barnabas' feelings are very important to her. He doesn't have to ask the identity of the lucky young man, Jeff, but Barnabas points out she hasn't known him long.She feels she's made the right choice. He offers his very best wishes, he wants her to have every happiness. Adam watches as Barnabas kisses her cheek, then tells Vicki that this won't change his feelings for her, nothing ever will. Vicki thanks him, but says she must return to Collinwood; Jeff's waiting for her. Barnabas escorts her to the door as Adam hides, and again wishes her happiness. He watches her go, heartbroken, and gazes up at the moon, then goes inside. Vicki walks back through the woods and is horrified to encounter Adam. She asks how he got there. "You will help me," says Adam, covering Vicki's mouth. She passes out, and he carries her off.

NOTES: Whoa, baby, Adam has turned into quite a Nicholas clone, at least in his way of doing business. He observes Barnabas with Vicki, notes how much he cares for her, and varoom, he kidnaps the woman he knows Barnabas loves! Way to go, Adam, you get an A in Nicholas Blair's course for Wicked Intentions and Actions 101.

Why does Vicki want to marry Jeff over Barnabas? Sorry, I don't understand her preference here. Jeff's such a toad, too, questioning her reasons for wanting to tell Barnabas, I just wish he'd go away.

Perhaps Adam has a point. He knows Barnabas and Julia conducted the experiment without Lang and successfully brought him to life, so why would it be so hard to do it again and create a mate for him to love--especially since he's offered to go away?

I don't like this obnoxious version of Adam. He grates on my nerves.


553 - The way Adam subdues his victims is better than the Spock neck pinch, isn't it?

Jeff waits for Vicki to return to Collinwood. It's 11:30, a bit late for dinner, and he lights up a cigarette. When Carolyn greets him, he tells her he and Vicki have a date--she went to the Old House to tell Barnabas something, and she's been gone over 2 hours. Carolyn finds that odd. She offers Jeff a drink. He wants to go check on Vicki. He didn't want her to go to the woods alone, and now look. Carolyn suggests she and Barnabas, who are good friends, are just shmoozing. He insists on going out to look. He knows the way to the Old House, somehow, probably a Peter Bradford flashback. He tells Carolyn Vicki once gave him the directions and he remembers them. Carolyn stands there, finding it all very peculiar.

Adam carries Vicki into his room and places her on the bed. (no girls in your room, Adam!) She comes to and Adam orders her to keep quiet. She asks where she is, and he says she doesn't need to know. She says she's been there before, the West Wing of Collinwood. She asks why he brought her there, and he says she doesn't need to know that, either. She insists she has a right to know. He's only seen her a few times, once in the jail. He says he saw her kissing Jeff at the fountain. You were watching us, observes Vicki--you can't keep me here; I haven't done a thing to hurt you-why are you hurting me?He says he doesn't intend to hurt her, he needs her to help him. She remembers him saying that before--what does it mean? He says she needn't be frightened, just be quiet and not run away, and he'll be nice to her when he gets what he wants--if she screams for help or tries to run away, he warns, he'll have to kill her. Vicki looks terrified.

Old House - Barnabas, reading, answers Jeff's frantic knocking at his door. Tell Vicki I'm here, instructs Jeff, but Barn says she left already. Jeff said she never made it back, or he wouldn't be here. Barnabas, perturbed, says Vicki left 40 minutes ago. Jeff wonders if there's another way back, but Barnabas says the path is the most direct way. Jeff says he should have run into her, then. Barnabas asks if he's implying he didn't tell the truth; his tone implies that. Jeff says he'll pose it another way--he came to get Vicki, and if they took the same direct route, they should have met at some point. Barnabas agrees, but. . .then Barnabas remembers Adam's threat that he'd be sorry for his decision not to give him a mate. "Oh my God!" Barnabas exclaims as an annoyed Jeff continues blathering. Jeff realizes Barnabas was thinking about something else, but Barn says he was thinking of Vicki, hoping she was all right. Barnabas says they are both to blame if anything has happened, for letting Vicki to walk alone through the woods. Now they must find her, says Jeff. Barnabas says he'll get some flashlights and they'll go search. Jeff asks if Barnabas has reason for believing Vicki is in danger; Barnabas sidesteps the question.Jeff has a feeling Barnabas knows something he doesn't, which Barnabas assures him is nonsense. Jeff glances out the window and waits.

A storm is raging as Jeff and Barnabas, flashlights in hand, call to Vicki. Barnabas suggests they split up and take two different paths. Lightning flashes. Jeff says if they don't find her, he's calling the cops--Barnabas agrees. They proceed on, separating.

Carolyn is working at the desk when someone knocks at the door. It's Barnabas.  He asks if she's alone, and says he must speak to her at once. He requests that they go into the drawing room, which they do.  He closes the doors. He tells her she must reveal Adam's hiding place, but she insists she doesn't know. Barnabas says he didn't believe her before or now, but now is different--Vicki's life may be in danger--she disappeared after visiting the Old House, and he and Jeff searched the woods and couldn't find her. Barnabas is certain Adam had something to do with it, Adam came to visit him earlier, too. Carolyn starts to say that's impossible, but stops, and he gazes at her, commenting that she seems upset by what he told her. She says she's surprised, she had no idea Adam was anywhere near Collinwood. Barnabas insists she and Stokes have known of Adam's whereabouts all along, and that Carolyn has been protecting him. Carolyn asks why Adam came to the Old House, but Barnabas refuses to say. Slyly, Carolyn says, "And you think I have something to hide."He asks if she is concerned about Vicki, and she says she is. If that's so, says Barnabas, you must tell me where Adam is. Carolyn wonders why he feels Adam is connected with Vicki's disappearance, and Barn says if she's really Vicki's friend, she'll be concerned about her whereabouts--they must hope Adam hasn't harmed Vicki. Carolyn still insists she doesn't know where Adam is hiding, and Barnabas says if Adam HAS had anything to do with Vicki's disappearance, she will be the one responsible. He gives her a "I blame you" look and marches out. Carolyn rushes upstairs to investigate this matter for herself.

Carolyn goes to visit Adam in the West Wing and see if he really does, as Barnabas suggested, have a girl in his room. No one answers her knock at first, but Adam finally opens the door. She's relieved to see him and asks why he took so long to answer the door. He was reading and fell asleep, he says. She asks if he's hiding something from her. He assures her he'd never lie to her and asks what's the matter.She asks, demanding the truth, "Did you leave your room this evening?" Adam admits he did, he went out to get a book. Did he leave Collinwood? No he says.  Did he go to see Barnabas? No, he says. She asks if he's only saying no so she won't be angry. He accuses her of not believing him, and she says she wants to. She doesn't understand why Barnabas would tell her he went to the Old House if he hadn't, and Adam says Barnabas is the liar. He seems to be barring the door, and she asks if there's some reason he doesn't want her to come into his room. No, he replies. She reminds him he always invites her in. He invites her in. There is no sign of Vicki. She looks around. She asks if he knows Vicki, and he says she once visited him in jail. He hasn't seen her since then? She asks. No, answers Adam. He observes she is looking for something and again says she doesn't believe him. Carolyn tells him how precious Vicki is to everyone in her family, and earlier that evening, she disappeared--Barnabas insists Adam had something to do with it, and she had to check out his claim. Adam is angry that she doesn't trust him; it isn't true! Carolyn says she does and apologizes for hurting him. She asks him not to be angry with her, and he says he never could be. She says she's glad it isn't true. He touches her shoulder and assures her he's always happy when she comes to see him. Once again discomfited, she says it's late and she has to go. She promises to bring him his breakfast and bids him goodnight. He closes and locks his door. "Good night, Carolyn," he says, then strolls over to his closet and opens it. Vicki, gagged and bound, is inside, and she gazes up at him.

NOTES: Adam bad. Adam lie. Adam picking up too many bad habits too damn fast!

Funny how Carolyn appears to be believing Adam over Barnabas. Would it have taken so much effort to check out his closet, the only possible place he could he hiding someone? I guess she chose instead to prove to him she believes him, a serious mistake. This is no longer her Adam, but Nicholas Blair's very large puppet.

Now, for Adam's threats-before, he only hurt people by accident, now it's by design. It's hard to believe this once-sweet man actually would go through with his threat to kill Vicki, even if Barnabas refuses to acquiesce to his demands.

Love, Robin

DARK SHADOWS will not be shown on July 4th or 5th this week; instead, the Sci Fi channel will be showing a Twilight Zone marathon.  



I like Twilight Zone, but I've seen them all a hundred times!

So there will be no more Robservations until Sunday.  I hope everyone has a terrific 4th--and may Osama bin Laden be blown to bits by some BIG USA fire cracker!

Love, Robin

546 - As Cassandra raises the axe, Nicholas is standing behind her, giving her the evil eye. He asks if she never follows orders. Adam awakens and sits up. Nicholas tells him he's quite right to be angry with her. Cassandra, terrified, drops the axe as Adam bears down on her, demanding to know who she is and why she is trying to hurt him. She orders him to stop but he grabs her, pronouncing her BAD. Nicholas agrees that they all know how bad she is-he will take care of her. Nicholas tells Adam to release her, then says he should just exit the room and allow Adam to deal with Cassandra.Adam grabs her throat-you tried to kill me! he accuses, and I will kill you! Nicholas asks Cass if he should save her. Adam demands to know what he did to her that made her attack him and refuses to let her go until she tells him. Cassandra tells Adam he wouldn't understand, but Nicholas disagrees-they both hate Barnabas Collins, a singularly unfortunate thing to do, obviously. Upon hearing that Cassandra shares his feelings about Barnabas, and that Cassandra hoped to hurt him, through Adam, Nicholas assures Adam that if he lets her go, she'll leave the room. Cassandra agrees, and Adam releases her. Nicholas promises Adam she won't bother him again. Adam grabs her throat one more time, but releases her when Nicholas reminds him Carolyn likes him to be gentle. Nicholas swears Cassandra won't try again, so Adam lets her go. Nicholas orders Cassandra to go to the drawing room; he will think up an unusual punishment for her. Caressing her throat, she says she was only doing what he brought her back to do, but Nicholas says she was ignoring his orders. He advises her to say goodbye to Adam, whom she will never see again. (that doesn't sound promising!) She leaves without another word.

Adam fears she will come back and try again, and wonders why she hates him. Nicholas says it's an unfortunate fact of the human world; when two people wage war, the innocent are caught in the crossfire. Adam doesn't understand, and Nicholas says he has much to teach him-after he finishes the business at hand.

Cassandra stands on the landing, berating herself for being a fool. Nicholas will punish her, and she knows what it will be--but he needs her here, he wouldn't dare. He can't stay if she were. . .no, it's her last chance, now, this minute, before he walks in. If she does nothing, Barnabas will escape her forever. She takes a clay doll in her hand and tells it, "You are Adam, made by man, and Adam can be destroyed as easily as I can tear this doll apart."  She takes a hat pin, holding it poised over the chest, points to the heart, and says, "When this heart stops beating, Barnabas Collins will be a vampire again!" Cassandra tells the doll that Adam will die and Barnabas will be what her curse made him to be. She holds the pins ready.

Adam asks Nicholas why people hate him. The warlock explains Cassandra is an unusual case, and he shouldn't worry about her. Adam wants to tell Carolyn--she will stop Cassandra--but Nicholas reminds him Carolyn will be unhappy that Cass found him there. Nicholas won't tell, he's Adam's friend. Adam doesn't seem to believe this, but Nicholas assures him they will be very, very good friends and he will prove to him he can be trusted.  Adam looks petulant and disbelieving.

Cassandra sits by the fire, doll in hand, saying to herself she knows that whatever Nicholas does to her, she will have triumphed. Yes, Adam will bring the curse to Barnabas. Now, the first pain! She stabs the doll, and Adam grabs his chest.Nicholas is very concerned when Adam begins gasping for air. Cass removes the pin, then drives it in again--she will prove to Nicholas she hasn't lost her powers, she vows, that she isn't afraid of him, and what she came to do, she will still do! Adam gasps in pain, falling to the floor. Cass removes the pin, telling Adam he's still alive, and while he lives, Barnabas Collins still walks in the sun, but with this, Barnabas will lose the daylight, and his world will be as dark as the night he is forced to live in. She is about to inflict the killing puncture, but Nicholas grabs her, stops her, struggles with her, murmuring everything in her ear as they argue. He is interested in Adam, he says, and she says he can't punish her for doing what she came there to do. Yes, he can, he says, for still being in love, for having such human emotions. She sobs that she hates Barnabas--Barnabas has defied me, she cries. Nicholas tells her he can punish her for caring about that. She tells him to punish her for disobeying him, but forgive her. What would my master say? demands Nicholas, and she reminds him that they share the same. Not anymore, retorts Nicholas, "Your master lives on this earth, at the Old House!" He locks the double doors and approaches her. What shall he do to her, he ponders. Desperate, she reminds him Adam is still alive, she failed to kill him-punish her for that!--she won't try again. He tells her she sounds like a woman in panic, and that's what she will be--perfect! He asks her to tell him her name. Angelique, she replies. That is not her name, says Nicholas, Cassandra Collins is her real name now. She is no longer playing a woman married to a man, she IS a woman now, married to one Roger Collins. He presses her down on her knees, then makes a sign on her forehead, then intones, "You are no longer a witch, a member of our coven, you are human, without power, you have only the minutes left to you to live out-you will die as humans die." "Oh, no," she moans, and gazes down. He grabs her hand. "This hand is no longer the servant of my master. This hand is no longer the recipient of my master's grace. This mind is no longer the property of my master, and this heart is no longer our domain. You are a woman, born on the island of Martinique in 1774, died. . .we shall soon know." Nicholas smiles and helps her to her feet. "You are mortal now," he proclaims. She backs away from him, and he bursts out laughing at her.She begs him not to turn her human, she'll die. That is your punishment, he says, you have no more powers. He hands her the fallen clay doll and invites her to try. She takes the figure and attempts to spell-cast, but it's useless, she can't do it. She looks so depressed! She asks how long she has left, but he says her departure has already being arranged, orderly, designed to cause little concern or regret. It will start shortly, how long it will take is his secret. She begs him to tell her, and he orders her to control herself--her husband is coming down the stairs, he says. He told her it would start soon, and it apparently has. He opens the doors and greets Roger, who asks if he's seen Cassandra. Nicholas, bouncing the lump of clay in his hand, tells Roger he'll see him in the morning.

Roger demands to speak to Cassandra, but she says there is something she must do. He demands she come upstairs with him, grabbing her. No, she isn't!--she doesn't care what he thinks of her. Roger asks when it DID matter, and she tells him he can figure that out by himself. She seems to be growing weaker as he tells her their marriage is a mistake--she isn't interested in him. She agrees with that, but says she must go. WHAT? He demands, but she says she doesn't have time and never had time for him. "Goodbye, Roger," she says, breaking free of him and racing to the door. He follows her, tells her he was willing to do anything for her--"I offered you my life so you could share it, but you weren't willing to share it, were you?" "No," she retorts. "Now you have learned the truth, there is nothing between us and there never has been!" Roger insists there was in the beginning. "I used you!" she spits at him. "Face it, I used you!" "For what?" demands Roger, angry and hurt.She responds, "For what I'm going to do now." Roger closes the doors as she goes off into the night. The camera pans on Barnabas portrait.

Old House - Cassandra looks in the window and sees Barnabas reading a book. She knocks at the door. He asks who's there before opening the doors. "What do you want?" he asks. She reminds him she was once the mistress of this house; surely it gives her the right to come here. Why are you admitting that tonight? he asks. She glides in. When I first came to this house as Cassandra, I cried when she left, she confesses--this room, so different from what it was before, yet so much the same. Josette's portrait--I remember the day you hung it over the mantle--where is it now? Why are you suddenly admitting to being Angelique, asks Barnabas--is it a new trick? No more tricks, she says, but he refuses to believe her. I have come to say goodbye, she says--one word, after such a long history, one word can end 200 years of pain--why didn't you ever love me?, she asks sorrowfully. "Cassandra!" he says. "Call me Angelique," she murmurs, "and tell me why you never loved me. I loved Josette! He says. She turns away. "I hate you," she says. "You've proven that," he retorts. "Not successfully," she says. "Because I am not a vampire," he asks, smiling in triumph. You escaped, she says. And that drives your mad, he says. "You think you have won," she says--you can stand there looking at me with pity in your eyes. . ." "Not pity," says Barnabas, "not that. You're too dangerous to pity." "No more," she says. "I have been told I wasted my time on you, and I think that's true. You have never known what I was thinking or feeling--why did I love you so much?--Nicholas says that I still do, that even dying, I love you." "Dying?" asks Barnabas suspiciously--"What do you mean by that?" She tells him she's been granted one of the privileges of being human--for once, he should understand, since he couldn't die either for so long. "We are both human tonight, Barnabas." "You are a witch," he says. "Not anymore," she says. "I have only until morning to live, that is my punishment--morning is coming so quickly. But if I must die. . ." she pulls a gun on him, "so must you." "No," he mutters. "SO MUST YOU!" she rails.

NOTES: One of the best, most engrossing scenes between Parker and Frid. His appearance in the very last segment of the show was a big surprise, but what they said to each other, and his odd reaction to hearing she was going to die (as if he really didn't want to lose this two centuries long enemy) was DARK SHADOWS at it's finest. The two of them were rarely human at the same time, and the next time this happens is another disaster.

Also felt really sorry for Roger. She sure let him down coldly, and cruelly, but then again, she was thinking of herself, of her oncoming death, the death she wanted to inflict in Barnabas, and Roger was of no consequence, then or now. She had used him to get to Barnabas, but Roger never knew it, thank God.

So now she holds a gun on the man she professes to love, the man she made love to one sultry summer in 1795 on the island of Martinique, the man she married after she blackmailed him into it. Will she be able to pull the trigger and take him with her?


547 - To see Barnabas and Angelique, this embittered husband and wife, reenact their final scene again tears me up. She must dispense with Barnabas in a human way, and wonders why she ever loved him in the first place. Since she is dying, HE must die, too, and that's all there is to it.Even dying, she is selfish, and wants to take this man with her, this man who has lived through so much and is finally cured. I guess in Angelique's case, she didn't want the best for her loved one, only to take him along for her deathly ride.

Barnabas refuses to believe Cassandra is human; this is another of her vicious games. Are you bored with tricks and spells? he asks. I wasted my time on you so I lost my powers, she reveals. Barnabas says, with a smile, there is even justice in hell. Her hand shakes as she holds the gun, and he realizes she really is human--and that she can't pull the trigger. He asks if she's afraid of him and wonders how she can be; all he has is his mind and hands. She tells him not to touch her, he can't change what's going to happen. She grunts in pain and tells him he's responsible for every pain she is feeling-you are stopping me! she cries, and he says she speaks like a woman who's been condemned. Did Nicholas condemn you? he asks-"is he more powerful than you are?" She falls over and he easily disarms her. The gun goes off. Barnabas holds onto it. Now perhaps he will learn the truth, he gloats, and wonders if she's capable of telling it. She limps away. He warns her not to leave. "Sit down, Angelique," he orders. She covers her head with the hood. He places the gun on the mantle. Do you want to see me die? she asks. Barnabas wonders why she's human--who is Nicholas, and how did she disobey him?--what happened--what rules has she broken? She refuses to tell him anything. Does it have to do with Adam, asks Barnabas, demanding she look at him, then pulling her around to stare into the hood in horror.

Vicki sleeps, and awakens from a dream. Angelique's picture is glowing, she notes, standing in front of it. The face suddenly begins to transform into that of an aged crone. Vicki races out to get Julia. Julia is glad Vicki found her and gazes with horror at the disgusting apparition the portrait has now become. Vicki wonders why she ever bought it, and expresses disgust--it's as though it's alive. Perhaps it is, says Julia, an ordinary picture can't change, but this one isn't ordinary--I'm going to the Old House to tell Barnabas about this. Does the picture have something to do with Angelique? asks Vicki. Julia admits that what happens to the picture happens to the woman. How can it be? asks Vicki. Julia reminds her she lived in the past with Angelique and knows what she can do. Vicki gazes at the portrait. She felt drawn to the picture, as the witch wanted her to, she wanted it to pave the way for Cassandra, and hence Roger's fascination. They wonder what's happening to Cassandra now. Julia is anxious to hurry to Barnabas. Vicki doesn't want to stay alone with the picture; it's like watching someone die. Julia tells her to stay with Roger; she will bring Barnabas back with her.

Barnabas holds Angelique by the shoulders, gazing raptly at her. "You were never vicious before," she sobs, to which he retorts, "You taught me to be!" She begs him to let her go, and he says he will after she tells him about Nicholas. She falls from his arms, crying in pain. Julia enters and starts to tell him what's happened to the portrait. He points to Cassandra, explaining that she claims to be dying--and she's human now. Cassandra, crying, begs Julia for her help. Julia wants to help, but Barnabas says she can't, Cassandra is under a spell and no one can help her. One man, sobs Cassandra. Barnabas tells Julia to look at Cassandra's face, but Cassandra refuses. "One man can help me, I must find him," sobs Cassandra, rising from the chair and scuttling away. Julia wants Barnabas to stop Cassandra, and says he must destroy her before she gets to Nicholas-it's his only chance to escape her. Barnabas explains he had his chance, he had the gun in his hand--why didn't he do it? He values life now that he's human, perhaps it's that simple, even the life of a woman who has made his life hell. Julia notes he regrets not doing it, but Barnabas insists that they let Nicholas finish her-it's the only way he will be truly free. Julia says she won't let him be so passive about it, she won't let him lose this moment, and she caresses the barrel of the gun. If you won't do something, the years of agony she caused you, sobs Julia, then I will! I haven't forgotten, says Barnabas. She reminds him with Cassandra powerless, this is the moment to strike--she will get back her powers, as she has in the past, after Trask, after the aging of the portrait, why is it different now?Says Barnabas, for once, she wasn't pretending--I want to watch and learn a great deal about Nicholas. You can go on learning, but I will be more practical, insists Julia, taking the gun into her hand. No, Julia, says Barnabas.

Roger and Vicki survey the portrait, which Roger calls unnatural. They will get rid of it in the morning, and Vicki agrees, but Roger wants to show it to Nicholas. Vicki prefers that he not do that, but Roger says Nicholas might be able to give them an explanation--Nicholas won't mind, says Roger, but Vicki doesn't trust Mr. Blair. Why? demands Roger, but Vicki is reluctant to speak. She has no reason, but she prefers to wait until morning; she doesn't want Nicholas in here tonight.Roger admits to being at a loss in understanding women; he proved it tonight. How curious the picture looks that way, he almost feels he caused it. He confesses he and Cassandra quarreled bitterly, and he isn't sure how unhappy he is about it. No one will be able to restore the portrait, says Roger, and suggests she stay with Carolyn tonight. They hear a banging noise at the door downstairs. Cassandra is screaming, banging frantically on the door, crying for help. Roger opens the door and is stunned to see the limping, aged crone fall to the floor. "Good God" he cries, staring at her hideously ancient, deformed face, "Who are you?"

Barnabas and Julia stand outside the door to Collinwood. He demands she give him the gun. She refuses, she wants to end this. No, says Barnabas, "Your life has changed because of me, I admit that, but Cassandra. . ." Julia suggests that if Cassandra can be done away with, perhaps she can return to her old life. Barnabas tells her she's forgetting a murder charge, and again demands the gun. She points out she's remembering what she is, and no one would convict her, knowing what they know. He tells her no one would believe them, and again demands the gun, vehemently. You really believe she's going to die, don't you? asks Julia, and he again demands the gun.

Roger apologizes for hurting the old woman and helps her to her feet. He'll call a doctor. He seats her in a chair and tells her to rest. Julia and Barnabas come in and Roger is glad to see Julia. Cassangelique, sobbing in pain, covers her face. Roger tells them he heard her and there she was, he doesn't understand how she got this far. He doesn't know who she is or whom she should call. Roger wants Julia to examine her, but Casangelique doesn't want that. Julia goes into the drawing room to get her bag as Roger and Barnabas help the old woman onto the drawing room sofa. Julia puts on her stethoscope and asks the men to leave."Julia," says Barnabas, and gives her a long look that speaks volumes. She orders Barnabas to close the doors, she won't be long. Barnabas looks very suspiciously at her, then Roger asks if he's coming. Barnabas joins Roger in the foyer and the latter closes the doors. "It's simply incredible," says Roger, "that woman is dying." Roger wonders how she got there, she couldn't even speak--thank God Julia showed up. Barnabas asks if Roger was the only one who has seen her, and Roger says yes. What if she dies there, wonders Roger. "What if she does indeed?" asks Barnabas. Julia comes out and tells them the woman's heart is so weak, it will only be a matter of minutes. "Honestly?" asks Barnabas meaningfully, and she says she didn't do anything--there's nothing left to do. Roger wants to take the woman to the hospital; they can use his car, it's all settled. When Julia returns to the drawing room, however, the woman is gone. Julia races to the open window and calls to Barnabas. They see the woman has disappeared. Roger is shocked. Julia says they've got to find her. Roger says she couldn't have gotten far, she's a very ill woman. Barnabas and Julia exchange a look, wondering--did they do wrong in allowing Cassandra to live?

NOTES: So where did Cassangelique go? Did she have the strength to go to Nicholas and beg him for another chance? She looked so drastically changed, Roger didn't even recognize the woman he'd married!

Once again, a fantastic scene between Frid and Parker. Loved his sarcastic remark, "There is even justice in hell." Excellent dialogue, I loved every moment of it.

So did Julia do something to hasten Cassangelique's demise? She could have injected her with something, given that she was alone with her; perhaps, like a wounded animal, Cassangelique wanted to go die somewhere, alone.

It almost seems like the end of the Barnabas-Angelique saga, doesn't it? Rest assured, new viewers, that much more--and more shocking--is yet to come!

Love, Robin

542 - Julia bursts into the Old House, calling Barnabas. She is out of breath, and tells him Cassandra knows everything-about him and Adam. Barnabas is in his red smoking jacket, which looks wonderful on him, and his hair appears to have been freshly cut. Cassandra knows how Adam was created, which could mean she knows how to destroy Barnabas, and she, Julia, doesn't know how to stop her! Barnabas looks properly upset to hear this bad news.

Anxiously, Julia asks Barnabas what they're going to do, and he ushers her into the drawing room, sits her down, and asks her to calm down. How did Cassandra find out? asks Barn. She tells him the story of Lang's recorder, his vital message, and the fact that it's on a tape. His message was in the middle of the tape, and Cass has heard it, as has David, who asked her to listen to the tape. David came to her and they rushed to Collinwood to find the tape had been changed. We must learn what's on that tape! says Barnabas, but Julia is sure Cassandra won't ever let them find it. David remembers maddeningly little, just about Adam's creation, Barnabas, and some connection.It doesn't look like David will ever remember the entire tape, says Julia, and says they must now find Adam, because Cassandra possesses the knowledge of this connection and will use it to harm Barnabas. They must find him before Cass and Nick do! If they find him first, the consequences could be terrifying for Barnabas. Where could Adam be hiding? speculates Barnabas.

Harry Johnson, long lost son of Sarah, quietly enters Collinwood, looking guilty. Mrs. J accosts him; she's been waiting for him. She can tell he's been drinking her money at the Blue Whale, and he awaits lecture #47 about poor old mom and her good for nothing son who can't get a job in this jerkwater town. She insists he come into the drawing room, and he reluctantly goes. She closes the doors. What is it now? he demands. She asks if he's been stealing food, and he says of course not. Someone has, she says, from the kitchen, and if he's responsible, she wants to know. He isn't feeding any worthless prison pals, he assures her, saying she's wrong and losing her mind. She reminds him she got permission for him to stay at Collinwood on the condition he behave. Harry says he isn't hiding anyone, and she gives up questioning him. She wants to know WHO is stealing the food, and comments how strange it is.

In Adam's West Wing room, where cobwebs abound, the eater of the missing food, Adam, alone and miserable, paces. "Alone!" he moans. "Alone."

Adam lies on the bed. Carolyn knocks. He's thrilled to have company, and lets her in, grinning. She's got breakfast for him, and he tells her he was alone, afraid she wasn't coming. She always brings him food, she reminds him, but must wait until everyone is out of the kitchen and no one sees her coming up there. She smiles. He assures her he isn't afraid now, and she encourages him to sit and eat. No, he says, then recites, "The widest land.  Doom takes two." He shows her a book he was reading, and she glances at it. She reads, "The widest land, doom takes to part us, leaves thy heart and mine with pulses that beat double." It's a romantic poem, for sure, and she reads more as Adam listens intently, love in his eyes.She asks if he read this and is astonished how far he's come from reading simple sentences. Alone, he reads, he says, and she expresses pride in his accomplishment. He is very happy to have made her proud and giggles, embarrassed. He asks what the words mean, and she says it's a poem, a love sonnet. Adam repeats "Love sonnet," and asks what it means. She says it's written by a woman telling a man how much she loves him. "Woman loves man?" asks Adam. Yes, says Carolyn, looking uncomfortable. She slaps the book closed and says, "Class is dismissed." She urges him to eat, and he touches her shoulder and turns her to face him. He touches her hair, gazes at her longingly, says her name. She's unnerved and tells him not to do that. "Don't," she says, and he asks if she's afraid of him. She denies being afraid, and he says, "Carolyn hates Adam." He turns away. She says she doesn't hate him, but she is his friend. She holds out her hand and he clasps it in both of hers, smiling. "You are my friend," he says, caressing her hands in his. She tells him to eat his breakfast, she must go. He bars her way and orders her to stay. He touches her face and she moves away, grimacing.

When Harry answers the door at Collinwood, Barnabas demands to know, "Who are you?" Harry introduces himself, as does Barnabas, who is looking for Carolyn and asks Harry to find her so he can see her. Barnabas heads into the drawing room, staring at the fire.

Carolyn is exiting the West Wing door, Adam's hands on her shoulders, and she begs him to let her go. He reluctantly watches her leave, his face sad, and closes the door. Carolyn exits the West Wing, tray in hand, and locks it. Harry calls her, startling her, and apologizes. Harry tells her Barnabas is looking for her, and offers to take the tray to the kitchen. She reminds him he isn't supposed to roam around the house, but to stay downstairs, and with a sneer in his voice, he replies, "Yes, Mrs. Stoddard, anything you say."

Barnabas is nervously twisting his ring around his forefinger when Carolyn enters. He asks her where Adam is. She says she doesn't know, and he insists she must know-she brought Stokes to the root cellar, where Adam was hiding. She says she doesn't know where Adam is now, she isn't hiding him.He disappeared, she says, but Barnabas doesn't believe her. Barnabas wonders why the police haven't found him, and she says she doesn't know, either, he probably ran away. Barnabas believes she and Stokes are hiding him. "Believe what you want to believe," invites Carolyn. He isn't with Stokes any longer, says Barn, the police searched there, so she must be hiding him someplace else. Carolyn stirs up the fire, not looking at her cousin, and says she isn't hiding Adam anywhere--why would she want to? To protect him because he saved her life, suggests Barnabas, which Carolyn calls a very interesting theory, but untrue. Barnabas sits beside her next to the fire and tells her earnestly that it's very important that he find Adam. She looks at him and asks why. He can't explain that, but it's vital. He promises he won't hurt him, gives his word. Harry is listening as Carolyn tells Barnabas she doesn't know where Adam is. Barnabas insists she must know, and he must know, it's a matter of life and death. Carolyn assures him she doesn't know, she isn't hiding him and please, leave her alone! Harry listens to this carefully, filing it away.

Harry finds his mother straightening out the drawing room. He tells her the high and mighty Carolyn will be giving her static about him-he didn't do anything, but when he went looking for Carolyn, she was angry at him for being upstairs. Mrs. J tells him to listen to Carolyn, and he describes Carolyn's exit from the West Wing, which she locked behind her. Mrs. J says the West Wing is always kept locked, per Mrs. Stoddard's orders. She doesn't know why, but it's off-limits. Why was Carolyn there? wonders Harry, but Mrs. J says it's none of his business.Harry ponders what could be so secret about it, and she says she doesn't know and doesn't ask questions, and if he's going to stay there, he'd better do the same. Harry shrugs and agrees. Carolyn comes in, asking to speak to Mrs. J, and the latter gives Harry her dusting accouterments to take to the kitchen, giving Carolyn a long look. Carolyn tells Mrs. Johnson if Barnabas comes looking for her, she's out-she doesn't want to see him, for personal reasons. This leaves Mrs. J puzzled, but Carolyn offers no further explanation and goes to look out the window.

In the West Wing, Harry uses what appears to be a piece of plastic to break into the West Wing door (it looks like he left a key in the lock).

Mrs. J tells Carolyn she knows about the trouble with Harry, and says he didn't know about not being upstairs. Carolyn assures her she's no longer annoyed--it's all right, just keep him where he belongs. Mrs. J promises to make sure Harry behaves and won't give her anymore trouble, she promises.

Harry finds Adam's room. Adam is making goo goo eyes, saying, "Carolyn. . .Carolyn," hugging the book as if it were her, like a man in love. He apparently has supernatural hearing, because he suddenly drags Harry into the room and slams the door closed!

NOTES: Well, some folks were wondering what happened to Harry, and now we know. Adam is really putting the moves on Carolyn, his libido apparently growing along with his cachet of words. They look adorable together, I've always thought, him so big and dark, she so petite and blonde. For an engaged woman, Maggie seemed intensely attracted to Nicholas, too, and he to her. I feel for Julia and Barnabas on this Adam business, but wonder why Carolyn seemed so determined not to help Barnabas. Does she not believe he won't hurt Adam? Intriguing stuff going on here.


543 - Adam has his hands wrapped around Harry's throat. He releases Harry when he tells him he was sent by Carolyn, who was worried about him. Adam seems to like that Carolyn cares.Harry introduces himself to Adam as a friend of Carolyn's, a real good friend. Carolyn doesn't like for him to be alone, Harry assures Adam, who seems so smitten, he turns his back on Harry, who pulls a knife on him. Harry is planning to take Adam to the cops, he wants the reward he read about in the papers. Adam accuses Harry of lying, but Harry orders him to come with him and he won't get hurt. "NO!" says Adam.

Cassandra again listens to Lang's tape in the drawing room. She excitedly runs out, calling for Nicholas. She tells him that she recognizes the voice on the tape-Dr. Lang! He was a doctor who became involved with Barnabas and Julia, who used to spend a lot of time at Lang's house. Nicholas wonders what Lang meant when he spoke of "my creation." "Adam," says Cassandra. Did Lang actually create a human being, ponders Nicholas- they must find out all he knows.Cassandra has to tell him Lang is dead, but that doesn't present an insurmountable problem for Nicholas (Cass brought back the dead Sam, why not bring back Lang?), who congratulates Cass for giving him something he needs. Cassandra listens to the tape again.

Adam backs away from Harry, refusing to cooperate with him. Harry swears to kill him if he has to. He lunges forward, intending to stab Adam, but the big guy overpowers him and forces him to drop the knife. The knife lies on the floor between them, and Adam picks it up. Harry, cowering on the bed, is fearful for his safety, and it's his turn to cry "NO!" as Adam approaches him with the knife, a murderous expression in his eyes.

Carolyn stops Adam just in time, demanding he give her the knife. Adam tells her Harry tried to kill him, but she assures him he won't, he mustn't harm him. She won't let him hurt Adam, says Carolyn, and Adam tells her of Harry's threat to turn him over to the cops. Carolyn reassures Adam on this score, too, and he admits he trusts her. She again asks for the knife as Harry grimaces with fear, and Adam finally relents and hands the knife to Carolyn. Harry tries to rise from the bed, but Adam pushes him back down. Carolyn orders Adam to release Harry-he MUST let him go. Adam does so, and Harry thanks her for saving him. She orders him to wait for her outside in a voice as steely as Liz', and he agrees, leaving Adam and Carolyn alone. She tells him not to say anything right now, just sit down. He sits on the bed and she tells him to wait for her, she'll be right back. He agrees, but seems angry at the whole situation.

Carolyn goes outside to Harry, standing and thinking for a long time. He tells her it's lucky for him she came or he'd be dead. Harry admits he figured Carolyn had a reason for locking the West Wing, and confesses to picking the lock. Carolyn is tempted to turn him over to the cops, but he reminds her what he knows, that the police are looking for Adam. He could pick up a nice piece of change-unless she makes it worth his while.Blackmail? She asks. An ugly word, says Harry, preferring to call it an exchange of favors. He asks for five grand to keep her secret, and she says she'll give him exactly. . .nothing. They dicker. She knows about his record, so she can send him back to prison-if she wants to. Harry knows she's got him by the short hairs, and asks what happens now. She needs help with Adam, and Harry will bring him food and help keep her secret. Harry fears Adam, but she promises she'll talk with him. Cooperate or be sorry, warns Carolyn, and she'll throw in a job as chauffeur, paying him a salary to be determined later. Harry agrees to the terms; it will keep his mother off his back. Carolyn doesn't want to have to trust him, but he reminds her she has no choice. She tells him to go, she'll speak to him later, but her face is unhappy at having to make this deal.

Carolyn returns to Adam, who looks chastened and sad. She sits beside him and says she isn't angry at him, just frightened.  He tried to kill someone. Adam says Harry tried to kill him, lied to him, but Carolyn insists she doesn't care-he shouldn't have done to Harry what he did. Even if he attacked him with a knife, he should have just taken the knife away, not tried to kill Harry. Adam listens.Killing is wrong, explains Carolyn, under any circumstances. Adam says he understands. Unless he makes the promise not to harm anyone, she will go away. He promises, for her sake. Harry will be bringing him food sometimes, says Carolyn, not her. Adam looks unhappy to hear this news, and accuses Carolyn of not wanting to see him. She denies it, but says sometimes it can't be helped. She touches his shoulder and asks him to try to understand. He takes her hand and assures her he'll try. She says she has to go, but he asks her to wait--he wants to show her a picture. He opens a book and shows her a lithograph of a man and woman kissing. She says it's lovely and explains what's being depicted-kissing is what people do when they love each other, says Carolyn, and she looks into Adam's naked gaze of adoration, clearly uncomfortable. She says she must go, but Adam says "No" again. He tries to reach for her, touching her face, her hair, saying her name. He kisses her mouth and she turns away. "No," she demurs. He asks what's wrong and she says he must never try to do that again. Why? he asks. Because it's not right, says Carolyn. He accuses her of hating him, but she says she doesn't. They're friends, and that's all they ever can be. He doesn't understand, and she can't explain it now-she has to go. Beginning to cry, she races from the room. Adam is bereft. He looks at the lithograph again and says, "Carolyn hates Adam," his voice shaking.

The cemetery - Eric Lang's grave ( born 1913, died 1968 ) - Nicholas stands and calls to Eric Lang, summoning him from his grave. "Appear to me," demands Nicholas. Dr. Lang's ghost appears before Nicholas and tells him he conducted an experiment to create human life--he used parts of the dead to form his creation, named Adam, says Lang--I failed to being him to life, says the doctor, I died before finishing my creation--Julia Hoffman finished it. Nicholas vows to get her to repeat the experiment. Nicholas sends Dr. Lang back to his grave, saying he served him well.

11:30 at Collinwood - Cassandra exits the drawing room, looking impatient. Nicholas comes in and tells her he knows how to find Adam-but he won't tell her. Cassandra says to find and destroy Adam, but Nicholas says Adam must live. But my curse! Protests Cassandra. Nicholas doesn't care; Adam is going to be the first in a whole new species of man, and he will find him, study him and learn how he was created. He orders her not to argue with him, Adam will live. If she tries to destroy Adam, HE will destroy HER, permanently-this is fair warning, says Nicholas. He heads upstairs and she gazes after him, pissed off. Just find Adam, she says to herself, and she'll find a way to outwit Nicholas and destroy Adam--her curse must continue. Cassandra faces Barnabas' portrait--nothing can prevent it from reaching Barnabas-nothing! she vows.

NOTES: So Nicholas now has a plan that is in direct conflict with Cassandra's desire to seek revenge on Barnabas. Which will prove the stronger? Will Cassandra murder Adam, re-inflicting the vampire curse on Barnabas, or will he thwart her efforts, ensuring the success of his own grandiose plans? May the best demon win!

Carolyn's got a real problem. Adam is in the throes of what seems like adolescence, and it's being fired by all that gooey love poetry and what, to Adam, at least, seems like erotic pictures. Carolyn hopes to diffuse it by using Harry, a man she distrusts, with good reason, to take some of the burden of caring for Adam off her shoulders. Harry could prove to be more troublesome than she realizes. Adam already doesn't like him, and you just know there is going to be more trouble between them. Willie didn't fare too well, but he is obviously mentally messed up; will Harry do a better job?

Love, Robin

538 - This time, when Adam starts to gesture and gasp for air, he calls for Barnabas. After Julia admits she has buried Barnabas alive, she asks Stokes for a pencil. She explains only that Barnabas' heart had stopped, so she buried him. Perhaps, since Adam's heart has stopped and now he's breathing, Barnabas, too, could be alive. Julia uses the pencil to calculate - Barnabas could only live in the coffin 30-40 minutes at the most--it's too late, he's been there an hour at least. Stokes notes that if her insane theory is true, she has 39 minutes to save Barnabas since Adam just started breathing a minute ago. They bicker about who will go save the buried man. Finally, Stokes agrees to help and leave Adam. He tells the gasping man that Carolyn is coming. They leave. On the way out they meet Carolyn. Stokes tells her to look after Adam--he's alive. She goes in and sees him gasping. What's wrong? she asks, concerned.

In the buried coffin, Barnabas moving just as Adam is. Julia and Stokes arrive at the gravesite. Stokes starts to dig. He comments that he isn't used to such work--surely the Collins family didn't agree to such a bizarre burial? Julia promises to answer all his questions when Barnabas is free--if he doesn't survive, there will be no reason for questions or answers. "Hurry, hurry!" she implores. Both Barnabas and Adam are gasping and holding their necks. Carolyn is begging Adam to try to sit up. Barnabas and Adam both suddenly stop breathing. Carolyn cries out for Adam. At the cemetery, Julia tells Stokes to hurry and get the lid open. Maybe you'll be in less of a hurry next time you bury the dead, suggest the professor. The lid is open, and Julia tells Stokes that she must be alone.

At the hideaway, Carolyn is unable to find Adam's pulse.

Stokes refuses to leave. Julia finds that Barnabas has a faint pulse.Stokes wonders what she's afraid of. She orders him to go see if Adam is breathing too. He complains about all the questions he still has, and insists she come examine Adam when she's done. After he's gone, Julia tells Barnabas that he's breathing. (crackerjack doctor!)

Carolyn finds Adam is breathing as well. She tells him she was frightened--what was wrong?--you often spoke of Barnabas. He stands up and asks why he spoke of Barnabas. Stokes joins them, and Carolyn tells him that Adam doesn't remember anything that happened. Adam, rubbing his stomach, says he wants to go home now--this place makes him sick. Stokes tells him they can't go home because the police are looking for him. Carolyn thinks he needs a doctor. Stokes says Julia is coming. No Julia, insists Adam. Carolyn whispers that Adam doesn't trust Julia. Stokes doesn't know what they should do and apologizes for his inability to come up with an idea--he doesn't normally react this way.Carolyn says they need a place to hide him and he needs someone to take care of him. Adam says he'll take care of himself and starts to leave. Carolyn stops him. She suggests the West Wing of Collinwood. It hasn't been used for years and is always kept locked--she could supply him with food. Stokes thinks someone else will be desperate to find Adam, someone with access to Collinwood--Barnabas. Why? asks Carolyn. Stokes doesn't have the answer, but assures her that one day he will.

At the cemetery, Julia comforts the scared Barnabas. It will soon be dawn. The bat attacked him. But your heart is beating, Julia reminds him--you aren't as you were. He doesn't believe he is not one of the living dead.Julia hands him a mirror and tells him to look in it; he does so and sees his reflection. Free! exclaims Barnabas. They wonder why the curse didn't work. Angelique did not count on Adam, notes Julia. She explains that he had the same symptoms at the same time--there is some link between Barnabas and Adam. Barnabas wants to see him, but Julia thinks that would be a bad idea. Stokes will ask too many questions, and they must decide what to tell him. But Barnabas is thinking only of Adam. I owe my life to Adam, a man I vowed to kill, he says--can it be true?--we must make it up to him. Julia says he won't be able to do so. Then you must, insists Barnabas--tonight.

Julia returns to where Adam had been hiding and finds only Stokes. She tells him that Barnabas is a little weak but otherwise fine. Stokes says Adam is recovered and has no need for her services-when he heard Carolyn talk about the police, he ran away. Where's Carolyn? asks Julia. Stokes chides her for asking all the questions; he'd hoped she would arrive with answers for him. (I love this guy!) Tomorrow, the next day and any time, but not tonight, says Julia. Stokes wishes he knew the secret of Barnabas Collins, a man who stirs so much emotion in so many people--someday he will understand it, he's certain of that.

Outside Collinwood, Cassandra paces next to the fountain. Barnabas watches her from outside the gate. He thinks that she waits for news of his death, unable to sleep until she knows her triumph is secure. He wonders if he should surprise her. He raps his cane on the gate. She asks who is there. He bids her a triumphant "Good evening." Barnabas! You frightened me, she says. I'm sure I did, he responds. He makes small talk about what a lovely night this is--there was a time I was alive only at night--because I could not exist in the day. He asks her to look at the dawn. Does it frighten you? he asks significantly--it used to frighten me, but doesn't any longer-I have changed.She tries to escape him, but he grabs her arm and tells her it will be a beautiful dawn because it will be the first one he will see without being afraid of her--you no longer have any power over me, Barnabas saystriumphantly--none at all. He walks away. I will have again, Cassangelique vows--and soon!

NOTES - I loved the juxtaposition of Barnabas and Adam pushing upwards, gasping for breath. It was technically very well done. I adored the conversations between Stokes and Julia, and loved how he did her bidding even though she refused to answer any of his questions. His curiosity must be killing him, but he will bide his time and wait with patience.

Best of all was the final scene between Barnabas and Cassandra, who looked very romantic together, by the way, despite the content of their scene. His gloating over her was well-deserved, and the subtle way he revealed to her that her attempt to re-curse him had failed, by standing there, clutching her, and watching the sun rise with her, was very effective, more so than just telling her he wasn't a vampire. You feel that if Julia had been watching, she'd have bounced up and down and let out a cheer of delight.

Carolyn's feelings for Adam are far stronger than a woman who had her life saved by him. She acted like a very, very close friend had "died"--or a lover.


539 - Carolyn sneaks Adam into a vacant room in Collinwood's West Wing. She gives him a blanket to keep warm, but only one lantern lest anyone see in from the outside. She prepares to leave, telling him she'll be back later, but Adam has other ideas. He grabs her, saying "No, no!" She coughs and tells her to let him go-you're in danger, she reminds him--others will hurt you because they're afraid of you, so you need to hide--I'll help you, but I can't help if I stay here.Adam doesn't want to be left alone, but reluctantly agrees to let her go. Promising he'll be all right, she leaves.

In the drawing room, Cassandra stares at the fire and thinks about time not being on her side. She wonders why she failed, and vows that whoever it was that interfered, "He will pay". David, who's been standing next to her, asks who will pay. She accuses him of sneaking up on her, but he changes the subject--he wants her to show him how to use the tape recorder Dr. Hoffman gave him. She's complains that she's too busy, isn't good with mechanical things--and has a headache. He leaves, pouting that everyone's always too busy for him. Alone again, she thinks about how she must find out what went wrong before Nicholas finds out. She thinks of the "bargain" she and Nicholas made (what the heck was that)? She must win, and Barnabas must DIE!

David finds Carolyn as she's locking the door to the West Wing. He whines that he doesn't know how to play the tape recorder, and she tells him she's too tired to help. He wonders what she's been doing in the West Wing. As she herds him into his room, she tells him she was looking for some old pictures to show Vicki, and she locked the door to keep the ever curious David from prowling around in the West Wing. He asks where the pictures are, and she says she couldn't find them. Eager to change the subject, she says maybe she can help him with that tape recorder after all. She shows him what the buttons do, then switches it on. Eine Kleine Nachtmusik. David wonders if something more "interesting" or "spooky" will come on if they keep listening.He invites her to stay and find out, but she says she really is too tired. The moment she leaves, Lang's voice comes on. David listens attentively to the message, flabbergasted.

Downstairs, Vicki's on the phone with Maggie, who's apparently just given her the bad news. Vicki staggers to the sofa, sobbing, "Barnabas..." Nicholas barges in looking for Cassandra. Vicki sobs that she went out a few minutes ago. Noticing her mood, he unsympathetically offers her some brandy and says she looks upset. She sobs that Barnabas is dead. His back turned to her, he can't conceal his glee, but he recovers quickly to display a poker face.How awful, he says, how did it happen? She doesn't know (Vicki, Vicki, repeat after me-dream curse, dream curse, dream curse-you knew it was destined to kill him?) Nicholas remarks that Cassandra had always spoken so highly of Barnabas. Flatly, Vicki says "Really. That's hard to believe." Why? wonders Nicholas. Because, explains Vicki, "She's your sister. And you're her brother." (LOL!) Nicholas should know that Cassandra is the greatest enemy this family ever had! He accuses her of being delirious--Cassandra has always been charming, ever since she was a sensitive child. Oh, says Vicki, how long ago was that? (get him, Vicki!) Nicholas declines to give away a lady's age.

Carolyn enters the drawing room. Vicki tells her about Barnabas, and Nicholas, as before, offers some brandy. Carolyn doesn't believe it, especially when she hears that Willie was the original bearer of bad tidings. She decides she'll go to the Old House to see for herself. Just then, Cassandra comes in, and Nicholas eagerly tells her the news. Cassandra says it isn't true--Barnabas is quite alive. What a relief, says Nicholas, sarcastically. He asks Vicki and Carolyn if he can speak to his sister alone by the lovely fire in the drawing room. The girls exit. Once alone with Nicholas, Cassandra says she doesn't know what went wrong. He does--she failed. She insists there must be a key to what happened, and she wants to find it and finish this. He marvels at her almost-human emotion and muses that instead of hating Barnabas, perhaps she still loves him--maybe that love weakened her powers--whatever happened, she'd better find this "intervening force" that ruined her idiotic plan before midnight, or they'll have to break the little pact they made.Until midnight--that's all the time she has! He invites her to have a little taste of what will happen to her if she fails, by looking at her hand. At first her hand appears normal, but as she watches, it morphs into that of a skeleton! Horrified, she begins to scream with horror and disgust.

NOTES: You've got to give Nicholas credit for playing nasty games with Cassangelique. He sure loves to toy with her, but right now he's REALLY turned her hand into that of a skeleton, something that will surely be hard to explain.

Loved Vicki's gumption at going after Nicholas, dropping her veneer of not understanding and letting him know she knows his true relationship with Cassandra and knows that since she is the Collins family's greatest enemy, HE can't be far behind!

Now David Has heard the tape and knows the truth-what will he do with this info? Will he tell the right person-or the wrong person?

Did Carolyn do the right thing in bringing Adam to Collinwood for sanctuary? Who thinks this is a bad idea?

Love, Robin

534 - Vicki stares out the window in the Collinwood drawing room, tortured by the dream.

Old House - Barnabas walks downstairs to find a note, seemingly from Vicki, tucked under his door. She tells him she dreamed the dream again and can't bear its horrible agony-I'm leaving Collinwood, she writes--I find it painfully ironic that all the qualities I admire in you are now the reasons I have to leave--if I stay, I can only bring you great harm--with the passing of each day, the dream will erode my leftover courage and strength--it's like having an incurable disease, and I know I would rather die than inflict it on you. Barnabas' face reflects horror as he reads this. "Vicki, no!" he moans, and hurries out to stop her.

Vicki, having flashback to the dream, hears the haunting sounds of Josette's music box and covers her ears. Barnabas determinedly knocks at the door. Vicki is sure it's too early to be Barnabas, but it is, and she opens the door, sees him and orders him not to come in. He barges past her-I must speak to you, he insists. She begs him to return to the Old House, but he chases her, following her around the table--I can't let you go through with what you said in the note you left me, he protests. She assures him she didn't do it, and although the note is clearly her handwriting, she didn't write it.They quickly realize they've both been duped by Cassandra--this was her way of bringing them together. It didn't work, says Vicki, I didn't tell you the dream. Julia, perturbed, comes downstairs and demands to know what Vicki is doing. Barnabas says there's nothing they can do to avoid it, but Julia separates them by shooing Vicki into the drawing room and closing the door while she demands Barnabas tell her why he showed up to make Vicki's suffering even worse. Barnabas explains about Cassandra's note. Julia orders him to go to the Old House-now--and he reluctantly agrees, but tells her to take good care of Vicki. Julia promises she will, firmly closing the door after him, then gazes heavenward, overwhelmed and miserable (poor gal gets all the scut work!)

Vicki covers her ears against the sound of the music box, then covers her face in despair. Julia comes in, making Vicki gasp. They sit on the sofa together; Vicki says there isn't anything anyone can do, she must keep fighting it.Julia knows what Vicki's going through, and is sure the dream Vicki had was worse than hers. The fear is overpowering, says Vicki--a living thing trying to break down my willpower and take control of me--it's all I can think about. Julia suggests she go to Windcliff, but Vicki insists she won't succumb to Cassandra and will never tell Barnabas the dream. She runs upstairs and Julia gazes after her. Carolyn comes in, greets Julia dispiritedly and notices how out of it Julia seems. Carolyn saw Joe at the hospital, and says he's much Better--he'll be leaving the hospital in two or three weeks, good as new. (That sounds awfully lengthy, but I guess hospitals were more generous with their time back then.) Carolyn says Joe told her some incredible facts, such as Adam leaping from Widows' Hill and surviving. Carolyn can't believe this--how could Adam possibly still be alive? Julia had heard about Adam going to Sam's cottage, but didn't tell her for fear of alarming Carolyn. Where is Adam, frets Carolyn, where is he sleeping, eating? Julia says he's probably wandering the woods, but Carolyn doubts it-someone would have seen him. He's hiding someplace, but where? Julia finds Carolyn's concern odd, as does Carolyn herself, who claims it's merely curiosity. Julia advises her to be careful about that, then goes upstairs. Carolyn, thinking hard, gets an idea and leaves the house.

Adam sits in the root cellar, eating what looks like hay. He hears a sound outside his door. It's Carolyn, come to call, and she lets herself in while Adam hides himself in a corner of the root cellar. He grabs her and she asks him to let her go-she's his friend. He recognizes her, and closes the door to prevent her escape. She knew he'd come there and decided to check it out. Why? he asks, but she doesn't know.He demands to know what she wants, and she says she thought he might need help. Did she bring the police? He asks. No, I came alone, she assures him. He grabs her and asks again, but she assures him she hasn't spoken to the police--and he's hurting her. Curtly, he pushes her away. I'm grateful to you for saving my life, she says, and want to help you now. You've changed, she adds regretfully, you're no longer gentle and innocent--now you've become what people believed you to be--if you're afraid of me, don't trust me, I'll leave and not come back. She starts to go out, but he asks her to stay, please--"Stay with Adam." She can't stay long, but she will help him, if he wants. He says he does, gazing at her with love. She notices how many more words he can say, and wonders how. Yes, Adam learn very good, he says (grammar isn't amongst his accomplishments). He displays that he knows the words ground, wall, door, outside, inside, feet, clothes, hands, face, hair (and of course, he touches her hair as he says it). She's amazed, wondering who taught him all those things. Stokes, he says. Joe was right, she realizes, Adam was staying with the professor--why are you here, why aren't you with Stokes? He couldn't, he says--he can't return there--Stokes angry at me for being bad--he didn't tell him that, exactly, and Stokes doesn't know he's in the root cellar, but he knows the professor is mad. Carolyn teaches him to say "I" instead of Adam, and asks if he was happy with Stokes. Yes, he says, Carolyn wants to take him back there, but he refuses. You have no food and it isn't safe, she points out, and Stokes must realize that when you ran from his house, it was out of fear and he isn't angry. No, says Adam, I can't go back there. Carolyn decides to get Stokes, bring him here, assures Adam he isn't angry--stay-and don't leave before I get back, she says. "Stay with Adam," he begs, grabbing her in his arms. I only want to get you help, she says. He gazes into her face, sure she won't come back, but she promises she will, and he must believe it and let her go. He trustingly opens the door to allow her to leave, a touching moment indeed.

Barnabas crumples up Cassandra's note and tosses it into the fireplace with a grimace. He leans dejectedly on the mantle for a moment, then lets Julia in. He feels terrible, he says, waiting for the executioner. She asks him not to feel that way, and tells him Vicki went to her room and locked the door. She knocked, but there was no answer, and she thinks Vicki fell asleep. To have the dream again, laments Barnabas. Julia says Cassandra has underestimated Vicki's strength, and Barnabas agrees- and how much consolation is there in that? He's being selfish. What is he roving--accomplishing?-nothing--Vicki is strong, but also being tortured, and he's allowing it. Julia says Vicki doesn't want to tell him the dream, and Barnabas says loving is her nature, not destroying, and he feels he, too, must have something in his nature that will be worthy of what she's doing for him. He can't let it go on-he's going to go to Vicki and let her tell him the dream. Julia protests, asks him to wait longer. It's already been too long, he says. Julia feels Vicki will survive the dream, and reminds Barnabas that if this reaches its conclusion, his fate will be worse than death. Barnabas says there's no way out, but Julia refuses to believe this. He went to see Cassandra, he tells the horrified Julia, and asked her to release Vicki from the dream's effects. In return for WHAT? asks Julia, already knowing. I was willing to admit defeat and restore our relationship of long ago, he says. Julia can't believe he was serious in this offer, and he explains he told her he'd wait at the Old House for her answer, but there was none. If Cassandra wasn't willing to respond to that, there's nothing else, and he can't bear contemplating what Vicki is going through for him. (Does he have any clue what JULIA is going through for him?)Julia begs him to think it over, and he says, firmly, he has thought about it and is prepared to accept it. He leaves, and Julia stares after him, in despair. A very nice scene between these two.)


535 - In Collinwood's drawing room, Vicki paces, and suffers. She hears someone enter the house and gazes fearfully at the double doors. It's Julia, and Vicki is relieved. Julia tells her Barnabas is on his way, upsetting Vicki. Why?--it's too dangerous, protests Vicki. Julia explains he's been brooding about Vicki's suffering, and the only thing to do is tell her the dream. Leave, orders, Julia, pack and I'll take you away. They head quickly upstairs to do that, but the front door opens and Barnabas stands there, looking like a little boy about to do something very bad. The two women's mouths drop open in horror.

Barnabas tells Vicki they're going to talk, and she orders him to leave. She closes herself in the drawing room and Julia says he can't go in there. There's another way out-call Stokes, he might be able to stop this. No, orders Barnabas, it's too late. They'll have to tell Stokes things he shouldn't know. He might save you, points out Julia. Barnabas says his fate was sealed the moment Angelique came back, why fight it? She bars the door, but he says, "Get out of the way, Julia, I'm going in." Slowly, she walks away. Barnabas enters the drawing room, where Vicki seems to be trying to hide next to a piece of furniture. He walks toward her and tells her he's ready. No, she protests, backing away from him, I won't tell you the dream-I'll keep doing so until Cassandra gives up--go away! We both know she will never give up, says Barnabas, and Vicki again pleads with him to go away. They go back and forth, Julia listening outside the doors. What did you see happen to me in the dream? he demands. She says she can't tell him-I don't want to see you die! She covers her mouth, horrified at her revelation. He realizes she saw him die at the end of the dream, and begs her to tell him everything, from the beginning. We can't let her win, protests Vicki, but Barnabas says the evil that has plagued Collinwood will be over when she tells him the dream-HE is the one Cassandra wants. Why? asks Vicki. What does she have against you? He hesitates, unable to tell the truth, then says it's because he's Barnabas' ancestor, and all who bear his name will share the same fate. History books say Barnabas went to England, but that isn't true, says Vicki--he stayed in Collinsport and died soon after marrying Angelique--he died in the Old House, and that's what the last line of the riddle means-one door leads to the point of return- return to death. Something worse, mutters Barnabas, but Vicki doesn't hear this.She begs him to go away, she's so tired. You'll keep having the dream, he says, until your life is one long, continual nightmare. "I have loved very few things in my lifetime," he says gently, "but Vicki, I love you-I will go to my grave before seeing your life destroyed." This convinces her as nothing else could. He seats her on the sofa, sits beside her, and says, "Begin from the beginning." The dream begins with a knock on the door, says Vicki.

Julia waits in the foyer. When Barnabas exits, his eyes shadowed, she knows Vicki has told him the dream. "She's crying in there," he says, "go comfort her." "I want to stay with you," protests Julia. Again, he orders her to make sure Vicki is all right. He leaves, walking as if in pain, and Julia returns to the drawing room and to a sobbing Vicki. Julia assures her she won't feel frightened anymore. When Vicki asks if there's anything they can do for Barnabas, Julia replies, no, not anymore. We can't let him die! insists Vicki. Julia laments that there is so little time left, and time has always been Barnabas' greatest enemy--whenever he's needed it most, it's always run out on him, more cruel to him than any witch could ever be. (one sad, too true speech.) Vicki comments that Barnabas and Julia are very close, and Julia agrees-very, very close--smiling slightly, hopefully. Vicki tells her how sorry she is. Julia says Barnabas was right, Vicki had to do what she did. Cassandra comes in and asks why Vicki is crying. Julia rises from the sofa, walks over to Cassandra, and slaps her, hard, across the face.(It's one of DS' most satisfying moments.) You will be sorry you did that, Cassandra promises. Julia gazes at her, and without a word, walks out. Vicki comes over and tells Cassandra, you deserve a good deal more than a slap in the face! She, too, leaves the witch alone. Cassandra massages her face, smiling proudly.

At the Old House, Barnabas has a red pill in his hand (I believe it's a vitamin in real life). He swallows it with water. Julia comes in and is terribly upset to learn that he's taken the sleeping pill-she brought him a stimulant! Barnabas says he knows it's inevitable, and he wants to go with some measure of dignity. (Oh, the sad look on poor Julia's face!) He wants to get it over with. While he's awake, there's some slim hope, she says, but he denies this-and the pill is beginning to take effect. I've already given Willie his instructions, says Barnabas-after it's over, he will come to the Old House and assist him. (line mixup here, I think.) When I revert to what I was, you must help him-Willie will bring a stake and hammer and you must drive it through my heart. I can't, she says, walking away from him. He reminds her of the living hell he experienced, alive by night, dead by day-do you want me to live that life again? No, she says, and reluctantly promises to do as he asks.Barnabas leans back against the chair, thanking her, and falls asleep. She calls out his name and shakes him, but his slumber is deep. She sits down in the other chair, watching, waiting.

Barnabas' dream: His beckoner is Cassandra. I knew it could only be you, he says, but I expected Angelique, not Cassandra. He follows her, arm outstretched, to door #1. He tells her he no longer fears her or what's in the room, and she closes the door behind him with a smile. Which door is it? he demands, tell me, I'll take it, and you'll have won. She recites the riddle to him. He hears the music, sees the doors, recognizes Josette's music box. The skull. . .the laughing bride. ..the guillotine. . .the blazing head of light. . .again, Cassandra recites the final line of the riddle. . ."the point of return, Barnabas, the point of return. . ." He follows the head of light, his face going to black and white for a moment, and it leads him to the Old House door. He enters his home. The point of return, he says. "Well, I have come to the point of return, what are you waiting for?" he cries. "Bring your beast in from the window and be finished with me! I am ready, I am ready." Barnabas begs Cassandra to be merciful for once in her life, I am here, you've won, get it over with! Barnabas awakens, calling, "Cassandra!" and sees Julia waiting in the chair.She asks if he's all right. He tells her he had the dream, but nothing happened. Both are puzzled. Wonderingly, he says it happened just as Vicki described it--I came through the door and into the room, and was waiting for the end to come-and it never did!-did you jar me awake? No, I just watched you sleep, she replies. He is jubilant, but Julia wonders why this dream is different from the others. Exultant, he says I've won-I wasn't meant to survive the dream, but I did, and now I'm free of Angelique! Julia is wary--how can you be so sure? Something went wrong with the dream curse, guesses Barnabas. Julia protests this seems too easy. Barnabas is sure it's all over now, and orders Julia to go get Willie from the basement. Julia wants them to go down there together, she doesn't want him alone, but Barnabas says nonsense--go get him. (oh, we just KNOW this is bad!) Barnabas is grinning happily-until he hears a knock at his door. He goes to answer, asking who's there, but there is no response. "Who is it?" he asks. Foolishly, he opens the door, steps out, and looks around. He hears the squeaking of a bat, and horrified, screams out "NO!" as the animal homes in and attacks his throat. He falls to the ground, writhing, clutching his wounded neck, as a woman's laughter fills the air.

NOTES: Is Barnabas going to be forced back into the existence he despised? After all he's gone through, has Angelique won? Will he now be a vampire for eternity?

Sad scenes. Julia wants more than anything to save Barnabas, be with Barnabas, do whatever she can to ease his suffering. His scenes with Vicki and with Julia are touching, and what makes them even sadder is the knowledge that Barnabas loves the young girl who doesn't love him back, but does not appreciate or love the older woman who would probably give her life for him. Barnabas and Vicki are willing to sacrifice for each other, but you know Julia would give her life to save Barnabas this torment. Why did he insist she go down to the basement without him? Have past events taught him nothing? He knows how Angelique's mind works-why did he allow himself to be left alone?

Love, Robin

529 - Vicki asks Maggie what's wrong. Maggie explains that she came in because she heard a sound--then she saw the ghost of a woman standing over bed, whispering to Vicki. Maggie describes the apparition--she was beautiful, with long blond curls and a strange dress from another century. Angelique--she's found me!" says Vicki-she'll make me have the dream, and Barnabas will die!--what if Angelique told me the dream already?Maggie assures Vicki that Angelique didn't have enough time to tell it to her. Joe arrives, and Maggie embraces him. The girls fill him in on Angelique's appearance and the curse. Maggie begs Joe to stay here tonight (on the couch, naturally), and even though he's skeptical about all this, he agrees.

Vicki says good night and returns to her room. She spots the bottle of rosewater sitting on the desk and sits down. Touching it, she thinks to herself what a beautiful bottle it is--where did Maggie find? Sniffing it, she pronounces the aroma "lovely, like flowers." Surely Maggie wouldn't mind if she used some. Just as Vicki is about to dab on some of the rosewater, Maggie enters to make sure everything is all right. Vicki assures her she feels fine now--by the way, you mind if she I some cologne? Maggie says it's not hers-she had assumed it was Vicki's. Vicki abruptly replaces the stopper, realizing Angelique had compelled her to use it. She tells Maggie to take it away and smash the bottle!--she almost used it, and she escaped Angelique this time, but how long can she go on escaping her? Since everyone's awake anyway, Joe, Vicki and Maggie have some coffee. Maggie advises Vicki to leave Collinsport, but Vicki still doesn't want to leave Jeff, and decides to ask Professor Stokes what to do.Joe is suspicious of Stokes-remember, he had wanted Angelique's portrait, and they found his stick pin here at the cottage. He offers to accompany Vicki in hopes of finding out if Stokes is hiding anything.

Stokes and Adam are playing with the flashcards. Airplane. Boat. Excellent! Stokes decides to try a new game: word association. He says the word "love" and asks what comes to Adam's mind. Nothing. Then, he tries "hate". "Willie," growls Adam. Stokes asks why Adam hates Willie. "Willie hurt Adam," replies Adam. Next, Stokes says "kill"-- does that make Adam think of Willie? "No," says Adam, angrily. "Barnabas! Barnabas hurt Adam!" Stokes points out that Willie hurt Adam too, so why does Adam only want to kill Barnabas? Adam responds, "Barnabas was friend to Adam--then hurt Adam!"Stokes realizes Barnabas rejected Adam, and Adam begins to cry. Suddenly, the doorbell rings, and Stokes tells Adam to hide. He lets Vicki and Joe in, and admonishes Vicki for not leaving Collinsport. As long as she's in the vicinity, she's in grave danger! After Vicki fills Stokes in on the evening's events, Stokes agrees that the rosewater would have induced the dream. He implores her to leave, but she doesn't want to leave Jeff. He tells her she must then face the consequences-- he couldn't stop the curse; his hands are tied. Joe finds the flashcards and says he thought Stokes taught college. Stokes claims he has a three-year-old nephew. They hear heavy footsteps, and Stokes says it's just his cleaning woman. (damn large cleaning woman!) Determined to make Stokes confess, Joe gives him the stick pin, saying it was found on the floor of the Evans cottage.Stokes says he must have dropped it on one of his visits to Sam, but Joe says that's not possible because it was found AFTER Sam's death. Let me think, says Stokes--oh yes, I stopped by the cottage to pay my condolences--the door was unlocked so I stepped in; when I realized Maggie wasn't there, I left. "I see," says Joe, sounding unconvinced. Stokes ushers them out, telling Vicki he hopes she doesn't have the dream-but if you do, contact me at once.

Joe lets himself into the cottage and helps himself to Sam's rifle. Maggie sees him and asks why he has it. A precaution, replies Joe. She tries to stop him from leaving, but he makes his way out the door, and doesn't respond when she shouts after him.

Later, the doorbell rings at Stokes' place. Stokes puts down his book and answers the door to Joe and the rifle, who shoves his way inside. Joe accuses the professor of hiding somebody dangerous--he figured this out from the flash cards, the footsteps and the stick pin. Stokes suggests that Joe should write detective novels. Joe insists on searching the house, but Stokes maintains that his house isn't open to the public. They begin to tussle, and suddenly a door opens. "Adam!" exclaims Stokes. "I knew it!" exclaims Joe. "You hurt, Professor?" asks Adam, concerned Stokes assures Adam he's perfectly safe. Joe points the rifle at Adam. Don't, cautious Stokes, he's afraid of guns. Joe insists he's going to call the police, and edges toward the phone. Stokes says he can't be responsible for what happens if Joe doesn't put the gun down. As Joe begins dialing, Adam grabs a book and throws it at Joe, then makes for the door. Joe hurriedly hangs up and follows Adam out the door, calling after him to stop. Stokes calls after Joe, "Haskell, DON'T" Moments later, a shot rings out.

NOTES: Who's been shot? Or was that just a blast into the air or a tree? Poor Adam, finally getting some semblance of a normal life with Stokes, only to be invaded and subjected to violence, which the big guy really doesn't care for, even if he has indulged in it a lot. Did Adam get shot? Did Joe? If Adam has been killed, what does that mean for Barnabas, that he'll end up re-vampirized without Cassangelique's help?


530 - Vicki pays Barnabas a visit at the Old House. He is pleased to see her-I haven't seen you in several days, he says. She explains that she's staying with Maggie Evans, not only because of the death of Maggie's father--Stokes told her that she was in danger of having the dream while she was at Collinwood. Barnabas comments that there isn't any danger now that Cassangelique is gone. Vicki gives him the news- Cassangelique is back, returned with a story about being in Philadelphia, which, of course, Roger believed. She goes on to tell him that she is convinced that Cassandra and Angelique are the same person and that she can only guess that she hates Barnabas because of his resemblance to his ancestor (yeah, go with that, Vicki). Barnabas feels that Vicki is safe with Maggie until Vicki tells him that Maggie saw the ghost of a woman in Vicki's room--and Vicki is certain it was Angelique. Vicki almost used the perfume left by the ghost but she found out in time that the perfume didn't belong to Maggie. Torn, Vicki says that she should probably leave Collinsport, but she doesn't really want to. Barnabas tells her that he knows she doesn't want to leave Jeff Clark, and is trying to accept it.

In the woods, Adam sees the Old House and begins to mutter his favorite words "Barnabas hurt Adam" and "Hate, kill". He starts heading toward the Old House when Joe comes up behind him and orders Adam not to move. Adam asks Joe not to hurt him.You hurt Sam Evans, Joe reminds Adam-I don't plan on letting you get away. They struggle over Joe's gun. Adam wins, knocking Joe out.

At the Old House, Vicki tells Barnabas that she's convinced her only option is to leave Collinsport to try and get away from Cassangelique. Barnabas, touched that she's willing to do this for him, tells her that he can't let her go to a strange place where she will have no friends or family. They hear what sounds like a gunshot and Barnabas leaves Vicki alone and goes to investigate.

At the cemetery, Cassangelique stands at Sam Evans' grave ( 1915-1968 ). She summons Sam's spirit and orders him to rise and appear to her. He does (in a trenchcoat and dark glasses, was he buried in those things?), and asks why she has disturbed his rest. The witch tells him that she has a job for him to do. I know what you are, Sam's ghost says. In that case, she replies, you must also know the extent of my powers. She tells him to go to Vicki and tell her the dream. He refuses. Cassangelique tells Sam that if he doesn't do it, she will deny him peace for all eternity. Sam tells her he's certain she's not that powerful. Fine, says the witch--go ahead and try to return to your grave! Sam does so and, realizing that he cannot return to his grave, decides that she sure is that powerful. He disappears.

Old House - Vicki hears someone call her. Sam's ghost appears. He tells her that he has been sent to finish what he could not finish when he was alive.Vicki tries to convince him not to do anything Cassangelique says because, among other things, she is a witch. Sam tells Vicki he is aware of that, but he will not be able to return to his grave if he does not do her bidding. He begins to tell her the dream. She screams that she won't listen and is about to flee. Sam tells her that he will follow her wherever she goes and continues to tell the dream. Unable to resist any longer, she listens.

In the woods, Barnabas meets Cassangelique. In an icy voice, he asks why and how she came back.This is my home, of course, she says, feigning ignorance. Angelique, he says, I had hoped you had decided to leave me alone. She replies that, as always, she doesn't know what he is talking about-and he's insane! Barnabas goes on to tell her that he doesn't care what she does to him, but Vicki has never harmed you--she should be left alone. Cassangelique suggests that they should avoid each other since he can't seem to get along with her. He tells her that would be a good idea, then exits. After he leaves, Cassangelique tells herself that a spark of her old feelings for Barnabas may be stirring, but she must fight them and concentrate on vengeance.

At the Old House, Sam finishes telling Vicki, who is nearly crying, the dream. Sam tells Vicki that he pities her but was forced to obey, the witch was too powerful. He disappears just as Barnabas enters. Crying hysterically, Vicki tells him about Sam's ghost. He explains that Cassangelique arranged all of it, he knew she was up to something-he just saw her in the woods. Upset, Vicki says that if she has the dream she'll have to tell Barnabas and he'll die.Barnabas tries to calm her by telling her that Stokes may know of some way to stop the dream. Vicki replies that she has to get away from Barnabas as soon as possible because she is tempted to tell him the dream right now (before she even has it?-doesn't that go against pattern?).

In the woods, Cassangelique summons Sam's ghost, who tells her that he has obeyed his instructions to relate the dream to Vicki and would now like to go back to his grave. She releases him; he disappears. The witch is delighted. "The curse has begun again and this time it will reach its ultimate conclusion-Barnabas will be brought to his fate by the woman he loves!"

Old House - Barnabas returns, calling for Willie, but receives no answer. Hearing a sound, he pulls open a closet door. Slowly, Joe's body falls out. Barnabas quickly opens the front door and looks out, but sees no one. Standing over Joe's body he hears a low, insane laugh-and turns to see Adam staring through the window, his face triumphant.

NOTES: That scared me. Joe falling to the floor, Adam's face at the window, staring in, glaring at Barnabas, laughing insanely. It's hard to figure out who is causing Barnabas more trouble-his artificially created "son" or his witch wife! Either way, he seems doomed. How is he going to explain Joe being in the Old House? And how badly injured is Joe-or is he dead?

We know Vicki-she's going to do whatever it takes to stop the dream from reaching Barnabas. She might not love him, but she does care about him, and she's got a strong will when she needs it.

Will that spark of love Cassangelique is feeling for Barnabas flame into something greater? Will she cancel the dream curse? Will Nicholas even allow it?

Lots of stuff going on, stay tuned!

Love, Robin