Another fabulous Barnabas-Julia scene. Julia volunteers to subject herself to Barnabas's bite. He is forced to actually consider her as a human being with personal qualities. It's almost funny to see his mortified vanity when he asks her if she doesn't consider him repellent to look at. When he reminds her that she will be subservient to his will, she smiles as if this is her dearest wish--and who knows, on some level it probably is. Barnabas asks, Why, Julia? With a faint smile, she murmurs, That’s the first time you’ve called me that. Instead of giving the obvious answer, she says carefully, I would be glad to help you in any way I can. Gravely he replies, As moved and even honored as I am, I feel I must refuse your generous offer, Dr. Hoffman. In remorse and shame, she begs him, Please don’t ever call me that again! You will always be Dr. Hoffman to me, he replies. I may need to call on your medical expertise at some time in the future. Julia mutters that she has some work to do downstairs. Despite their near enmity, Barnabas courteously rises from his chair as she leaves--the first time he accords her that distinction--then sinks back down slowly with a thoughtful look.
Poor David tries to warn Carolyn not to go to the Old House, once his favorite playground. She is wearing a pretty butter-yellow coat when she leaves. Unfortunately, she forgets the toy soldier, which remains on the foyer table.
Wow! What a finale! What must Julia be feeling? It still gives me the shivers.