In A Family at War Season 1, Episode 11 – Brothers in War, conflict erupts within the Ashton family as the war places brothers on different paths—both physically and ideologically. With personal beliefs clashing and loyalties divided, the emotional toll of WWII becomes increasingly personal. This compelling episode explores the strain of war not just on nations, but on families torn apart by duty, honor, and survival.
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00:00I
00:30Oh, my God.
01:00Robert!
01:26Didn't you get me a letter?
01:27Oh, you said tomorrow, love.
01:29I got off early.
01:30Are you, child?
01:33Is this Margaret's baby?
01:35Yes.
01:36Isn't he sweet?
01:39Oh, he's great.
01:41Oh, Mum, he's terrific.
01:42Shoo!
01:43How are you?
01:43Took me over an hour to get him off to sleep.
01:45Come on.
01:46I expect you aren't feeding.
01:47It's all right, Mum.
01:51I had a bite.
01:53Oh, love of bread with a pound of dripping on it.
01:55I know you.
01:55Oh, Mum.
01:56One biscuit.
01:58Don't worry, love.
01:58We're not short of bread.
02:00Where's Margaret?
02:01She's gone to the doctor's.
02:03Nothing wrong?
02:04No, right as rain.
02:06It's a milk certificate for the baby.
02:09She didn't want to take him with all those people coughing in the waiting room.
02:12You know, you've grown.
02:16No, not in half a turn.
02:18You seem to fill out every time.
02:21Please, they're not starving you.
02:23Hey, I got a present for you, Mum.
02:26Oh.
02:28Oh.
02:31Oh, thanks.
02:33Ration card.
02:35Where did you get this?
02:42In a shop.
02:43Really?
02:44Novelty shop.
02:46Let me try it on.
02:50Oh, it's lovely.
02:52You shouldn't have spent your money, love.
02:55I got this for baby.
02:57What's his name?
02:58John George.
03:00And, er, he's only two months old.
03:03Oh.
03:05Never mind.
03:06You'll have to play with it, won't you?
03:09When do you go back?
03:10Tuesday.
03:12Oh, well, I shall have to ring your father and tell him to come home early.
03:17Pete will be back soon, and, er, Sheila said she might pop in.
03:21She often comes now the children are evacuated.
03:24You'll have to make do with sausages, all right?
03:26Oh, lovely grub.
03:27Onions and mash.
03:29Good cooking's wasted on you, isn't it?
03:32Anyway, we'll all have a nice evening together.
03:34Yeah.
03:35Um, I'll be going out later on.
03:39Oh, not in your first evening home, love.
03:41But it's Fred, me mate.
03:43Oh, not Fred.
03:44Oh, come on, Mum.
03:45I won't go out right away.
03:47Oh, it's me last half-term.
03:48Let me enjoy it.
03:49I'll be getting a ship in a couple of months.
03:50That's the Vickers Mark 1 medium machine gun.
04:10I'm told this one was used during the last war.
04:13It'll still do to stop Jerry.
04:15You, correct firing position.
04:17Under normal firing conditions, the rear leg of the tripod will be aligned with the target.
04:22The gunner sits behind the gun to the rear of this leg with his legs on either side of the tripod.
04:27The knees will be slightly drawn up.
04:29So, here's what.
04:30You've got a right nerve sending a note in like a visiting VIP.
04:41Two halves a bit, I love, please.
04:43So, how are you?
04:45Oh, I'm so tired.
04:46That's a fact.
04:48Small world, eh?
04:49Yeah.
04:49Mum wrote and told me you were down here last week, only I've been on ops till last night.
04:54Yeah, I see you've come up in a world then.
04:55That's a courtesy strike.
04:56Vickers gun instructor.
04:58I did have one in Guernsey, only I lost it.
05:01That's all, love.
05:04What's that, a machine gun battalion?
05:06No, there's just one Vickers and a few LMGs.
05:08It's an ordinary rifle battalion.
05:10Coast defence.
05:11But if you're waiting for the invasion, it won't come now.
05:13It's just as well if you saw my battalion.
05:15Rory Crooks mostly, we couldn't stop pussy.
05:17Well, thank God for fire to command then, eh?
05:20Yeah, cheers.
05:20Cheers.
05:23Hello there, Sue.
05:24Hello, David.
05:25I didn't know you patronised this place.
05:27Well, I'm meeting one of my pupils here.
05:29This is Susan Reynolds, my brother Phil.
05:31How do you do?
05:32Hello, I know a lot about you.
05:33Well, if you've heard it from him, don't believe it.
05:36Well, sit down, love.
05:36Oh, thank you.
05:40Susan, charge an education centre, WBS.
05:43Believe it or not, she's trying to educate me.
05:45Hard work, is it?
05:46Oh, uphill all the way.
05:47I'll talk to you later.
05:49He's a first-class pupil, as a matter of fact.
05:50Oh, what's he stopping you?
05:51Modern history.
05:53It all started when he asked me to give him a definition of fascism.
05:56Go on.
05:58Well, don't mind me, you know.
05:59Just carry on talking about me while I get you a drink.
06:02Oh, cider, please.
06:03If you don't mind me drinking it with someone else.
06:06It won't be all right.
06:07I'm glad he's taking an interest.
06:13In politics?
06:15In anything, actually.
06:16No, he had a pretty lousy job before the war.
06:19He was capable of better things, as his school report used to say.
06:22What did your report say?
06:23That I was a stuffy little swat.
06:25And you went to Oxford.
06:26Yes, I know David's very proud of you.
06:28Is he?
06:29Yes.
06:30Does it surprise you?
06:31Well, yes, it does, as a matter of fact.
06:33Why?
06:34I don't know.
06:35I always thought he resented his bad luck, I suppose.
06:40Was it bad luck?
06:42Mostly, I think.
06:43There you go.
06:44One bucket of cider.
06:45David, look, do you mind if I drink it with that pilot officer over there?
06:49Yeah, we do, don't we?
06:50We're outranked.
06:51I'll see you again, perhaps.
06:52Yes, I hope so.
06:52David.
06:57Nice girl.
06:59Yeah.
07:01So how do they treat you brown jobs, then?
07:04Take some sugar back, will you, love?
07:06No fear, I won't.
07:08I'm always round here eating your rations.
07:12Hey, did David say be seeing Philip again?
07:15He didn't say so, but I suppose he will if he's going to be stopping down there.
07:19You know, if we don't get a siren tonight, that'll be three nights without.
07:24Dad fire-watching at the works again tonight.
07:27Didn't say anything to me about it.
07:31How did the children like the presents, love?
07:33Oh, they loved them.
07:34Hey, is that enough potatoes?
07:36Do a couple more.
07:38Robert seems to live on mashed potatoes.
07:40Oh, yeah.
07:41They were more interested in the presents than in me.
07:44Well, you know children.
07:47Honestly, I ran to that house.
07:49I thought they'd be all over me.
07:50And there they were, cuddled up to this lady, calling her auntie.
07:54I was the stranger.
07:56At least it shows the people are good to them, doesn't it?
07:58Oh, yes, they're lovely people.
08:00They treat my two just like their own.
08:03They'll come back to you and David as if they'd never been away.
08:06You see.
08:08I cried in the train coming back.
08:12Oh, well.
08:13Time for another feed.
08:14She makes me feel ashamed.
08:20Talking about my troubles.
08:30Come on, Jean.
08:31You can't wait a whole night.
08:34Look at the time.
08:35It's time for bed.
08:36I don't think we'll have the sirens tonight and it's silly to miss the sleep.
08:39Well, I thought, you know, I thought Robert might like some cocoa when he comes home.
08:44Well, if he wants it, he's old enough to make it.
08:46He's only 16.
08:48Never used to stay out as late as that.
08:50Come on.
08:51We've had a nice evening and he did stay with us at nearly 10.
08:57Silly of me.
08:58I still think of him as the baby.
09:00You can't stop them growing up.
09:04I don't love one more than the other.
09:06It's not that.
09:08But.
09:09I suppose it is because he is the youngest.
09:12I know.
09:15Oh, well.
09:16You're quite right.
09:17Wasn't waste a good night's sleep over it.
09:20Oh, goodness.
09:22I'm always tired to the bone.
09:25I suppose it all is all this getting up at night.
09:28That's the real trouble.
09:32Where can he be?
09:34He is still a baby.
09:36He is still a baby.
09:39Oh, lovely.
09:53oh lovely oh so you're not going to spend the whole day in bed I got in late I heard you
10:1320 minutes after midnight right bed mum of course where did you get to till 20 past 12
10:21I was out with Fred doing what nothing just chiking a couple of Judy's Judy's just a bit of fun what
10:31sort of fun nothing just larking you know I've heard of this larking about in air raid shelters
10:40was that where you ended up it was cold out you're in fine company my lad nothing happened
10:50oh I should hope not I'll deal with the front gate when I come home this evening I'll be glad to get
10:56rid of it squeaks all night you should hear your big son in an air raid shelter with Judy's and
11:02tells me nothing happened that's all right then Edwin
11:08Edwin he could get himself into trouble you know he's a sensible enough lad sensibly maybe but you
11:18never know what boys like that fearful Fred can lead him into if a lad's basically good you have
11:23to trust him but he's not as big as he thinks at least you can warn him what me you're his father
11:29it's time you had a talk with him hmm must do that sometime not sometime when you come home tonight
11:35I've told you I'm gonna deal with a gate when I come home tonight before he goes out again with
11:39that Fred you have a good talk with him you're his father it's your job yes love hey thanks for
11:52helping all good practice when mr. Wright comes along I wish you would settle down I'm ready and willing and
12:00it happens to take two I used to go out a lot with Peter Collins what's wrong with him nothing you've
12:07known him long enough oh you know how busy it is at the hotel should have thought with all the bombing
12:12they'd be slack at night oh you'd be surprised the worst it is outside the more people around the bar
12:17laughing and boothing oh sometimes I wish I could get away from it all together for baby's sake he all
12:26seems to manage to sleep through it though I don't want to be morbid I don't care what happens as long
12:32as it happens to us all yeah honestly though I do wish you'd give Peter a break
12:40right it's all in a good cause I suppose I melted down to make a bomber yes oh thanks Peter I was
13:01beginning to lose my temper oh yes you better come and wash your hands
13:10go right through Peter Peter will be glad to see you upstairs no through the kitchen
13:26come on hello mrs. hello Peter I hear you've been helping well sort of yeah I bet you could do with a wash
13:35come on thanks well not too bad a spit in the lick will do
13:40hey I'm off now oh hello Peter hello
13:45well I must rush by I haven't seen your mother for a day or two Peter oh she's fine oh good
13:57well er why don't you two go into the living room eh I'll get you a glass of orange oh thanks
14:03haven't seen you down at the post lately I've been fire watching at the works
14:11Jack Roberts told me two trams were blown up in that last raid in Priory Road yes so I heard sit down
14:19Freda's still busy yes they seem to wander at all hours at the hotel yes
14:27oh thanks
14:32tell Peter to try some of my cake eh oh he's not shy
14:35yeah she does seem to be busy
14:38yeah you like some cake no thanks well I better have two pieces just to keep Mrs. Ashton happy eh
14:47what's Freda's night off these days well it seems to vary why don't you ask her
14:57well I don't like to really I mean it's like asking her to go out isn't it and maybe she doesn't want to
15:03well it's the only way to find out son yes I know and if she doesn't what there's plenty more fish in the sea
15:10yes they're a funny lot these women you know you can say that again they change like the weather and I'm afraid my lot are no exception
15:20the only thing to do is not to take them too seriously anyway I'd better be off I was going down to the post
15:27hmm well I mustn't keep you I'll come to the door with you
15:37I uh I think I'll do what you said and ask her
15:41that's the stuff I wish I knew what she was thinking that's all
15:45I often wish that myself son I'll ring her at the hotel will you tell her
15:50yes I will bye
15:53oh oh oh be her father
15:57he's going to ring her
15:59Oh, I can smack them sometimes.
16:01They behave like a couple of school children.
16:04Is he still after half three there?
16:06Robert, your father would like a word with you.
16:07I've got to meet Fred.
16:09Fred can wait.
16:11No, let the boy go.
16:12No need to make him late.
16:14He'll go when you let him.
16:17Come on, son.
16:29Well, er, what is it, Dad?
16:47Er, just a little talk, son.
16:50You see, you're at an age when you're up against new things.
16:56Oh, damn it, I'll sound like a scoutmaster in a minute.
16:59Your mother's worried about you and women.
17:04What's she worried about?
17:05I'm not saying there's anything in it, you're a good lad,
17:07but one thing can lead to another.
17:10You mean with those two last night?
17:12No, I'm speaking generally.
17:13You see, you've reached the age of pubert.
17:17Well, you've got a man's feelings now.
17:20If it's those two last night, Dad, you don't want to worry.
17:22They're just a pair of teasers.
17:25Oh?
17:26Yeah.
17:27You wouldn't get anywhere with those two.
17:28Oh.
17:30Er.
17:33You don't mean you tried.
17:35No.
17:36No, we weren't after anything.
17:37Just larking.
17:39You know, Dad.
17:40Yeah.
17:40Oh, yes, yeah.
17:42Well, there may be more to this business than you know, son.
17:45You mean sex?
17:50Since you put it like that, yes.
17:53You see...
17:53It's all right, Dad.
17:54We get lectures at school.
17:56Yes, I suppose you do.
17:56We used to get lectures in the army.
17:59But not at your age.
18:01Well, that was in the olden days, Dad.
18:02Yes.
18:04All the same, Robert.
18:07If you listen to the voice of experience...
18:09Yes, Dad.
18:14Dad.
18:15Yes?
18:15They gave us a book.
18:17Here, go and have a look.
18:18Oh, thanks.
18:22Now, you read it, Dad.
18:24It's very instructive.
18:26Give it back to me tomorrow.
18:28Ta-da!
18:51THE END
19:21TAXI, SIR?
19:31Thank goodness Father didn't realise business was so bad.
19:35Don't be such a dumb fool, I came to meet you.
19:40How is everybody then?
19:41About the same, as far as I know.
19:46Here, take a hold of this, will you?
19:48It's a present.
19:50Oh?
19:50For Margaret Spamey.
19:53Oh.
19:56There's no news of him, John Porter.
20:00Yes or no?
20:01I got a letter from Aunt Jean.
20:05Thanks.
20:07They're charging double fare, I suppose.
20:09Peter Collins was talking about you yesterday, miss.
20:28Was he?
20:29I was going to ring you at work.
20:31Good.
20:32You were saying you haven't been out with him for a while.
20:35No, I haven't.
20:37You gone off him?
20:38No.
20:40He's not a bad chap, isn't Peter?
20:43Extraordinarily good, I'd say.
20:45What's wrong with that?
20:46Nothings at all.
20:48All what?
20:49All about Peter.
20:50It's like that then, is it?
20:52Like what?
20:52You have gone off him.
20:55Not necessarily.
20:57Safe by the bell.
21:04I'll go.
21:05Oh.
21:10Women.
21:12Men.
21:13Why does everyone assume there was anything to go off in the...
21:15Yes?
21:22Oh, yes.
21:23Hello, Septon.
21:25Are you expecting a call?
21:26No, not really.
21:30What?
21:32Well, tonight?
21:35What for?
21:36Dawn is home.
21:38I thought we might have a little celebration.
21:40Eat out.
21:41Save the rations.
21:43You and Jean.
21:44The four of us.
21:45Well, um, that's a nice thought.
21:52Oh, I don't think I need to ask her.
21:54She'd jump at it, I'm sure.
21:56We've got Robert at home.
21:58I don't think he'd mind.
22:00He seems to find plenty to keep him occupied.
22:15You started young, sonny.
22:22I'm his uncle.
22:23He's dad in the forces, is he?
22:25He's the army.
22:26He's missing.
22:28They think he's been killed.
22:29Oh, no.
22:30Isn't that terrible?
22:31Isn't that terrible?
22:33Oh, the poor lad.
22:35The poor lad.
22:36Cheers.
22:38Cheers.
22:38Cheers.
22:42Well, what are you wearing that for?
22:46What's a perfectly good suit?
22:48What's wrong with your uniform?
22:50Dad, I've been looking forward to getting into this suit for four months.
22:53I should have thought you'd be proud to wear the king's uniform.
22:58What have I said now?
22:59Nothing.
23:00I don't see it's funny taking pride in wearing the king's uniform.
23:03You did your best to keep me from wearing it.
23:05Oh, can't you let bicons be bicons?
23:08Yes, all right.
23:10Here, give us that.
23:11What's it like at this King Alfred place?
23:18Crowded.
23:20Sometimes very noisy.
23:21You got your commission quickly.
23:22I'm pleased with you.
23:24They turn us out like sausages, sub-lieutenants.
23:26It's the lowest form of life, you know.
23:27You must have done well to pass.
23:29So.
23:30What are you going to Portsmouth for?
23:33A gunnery course.
23:35There you go to sea, will you?
23:36Oh, God, no.
23:38Still more courses.
23:38I'd be guaranteed to sink any ship in my present state of knowledge.
23:43You won't have to worry about one thing.
23:45Pounds, shillings and pence.
23:48As a matter of fact, I manage rather well in my pay.
23:50I'm not talking about managing.
23:52I'm talking about not having you at a disadvantage.
23:55I can imagine these old Etonians.
23:58Well, as a matter of fact, I haven't met any old Etonians so far.
24:02Not any young ones, either.
24:03Never mind.
24:04You'll stand you around with the best of them.
24:05I'll pay a damn good allowance into your account every month.
24:09Thanks.
24:10Yes.
24:13Well, how have you been managing?
24:15Oh, same as I've always done.
24:17I just wondered.
24:19You're on your own here.
24:21Oh, you didn't think about that when you ran off.
24:25What about the King's uniform, eh?
24:27Oh, you haven't changed.
24:30Anyway, what difference does it make?
24:33I was on my own when you were here, wasn't I?
24:38How's the business?
24:39If I tell you I'm doing all right, you'll call me a profiteer again.
24:42As a matter of fact, things aren't too good at all.
24:45Look, Father, I did come home.
24:46At last.
24:47You've had leaves before.
24:49Weekends?
24:50That's a long journey.
24:51Yes, when it's a question of seeing your father.
24:54Oh, come on.
25:02Look, I'm here.
25:03I haven't got very long.
25:09Let's get sloshed, eh?
25:13Well, I'm glad you're home.
25:17I'm taking you out tonight.
25:19Oh, are you?
25:20Yes, I've booked a table at the Towers.
25:22We'll have a slap-up dinner of the very best.
25:25That's splendid.
25:26I've asked your Aunt Jean and Uncle Edwin.
25:28Jolly good.
25:29And, er, Tony?
25:33Fowler.
25:35You will wear your uniform tonight.
25:37Won't you?
25:39To please me.
25:41Well, to please you.
25:44Yes, of course.
25:50Ooh!
25:51I say, have you two ever thought of having lessons?
25:56One, two, three.
25:58Er, do you come here often?
26:04Whoops!
26:06Oh.
26:08Oh, I mean, it's Fred, Stare, and Ginger Otis, isn't it?
26:11Yes, of the neighbours.
26:12What on a Saturday?
26:13Do you want to cheer them up?
26:14Hey, look at my brooch.
26:15Isn't it lovely?
26:16Oh, he's a real lad, your baby son.
26:18He's going to slay those girls one day.
26:20He's started already, from what I hear.
26:22Well, how do I look, then?
26:23You're a smasher.
26:24You'll have all those dirty old businessmen trying to date you.
26:27Aren't you ready yet?
26:28I don't know.
26:29Oh, let mum have a big moment, so every day Sefton takes you out.
26:33Event of a lifetime.
26:34Must come over the old skimfully.
26:35Oh, no, no, that'll do.
26:37It's very nice of him.
26:38Besides, it's an honour of Tony.
26:40And I'm excited to be dining out anyway, I can tell you.
26:42Well, if you're so excited, for heaven's sake, let's go.
26:44We're supposed to meet him at seven.
26:46Oh, dear, I hope it keeps quiet tonight, that's all.
26:50Now, you're sure you're going to be all right, all of you, aren't you?
26:53Oh, mum, we're not children.
26:53Now, off you go and enjoy yourself.
26:55I give our love to Tony.
26:56And I've left the cold joint in the line.
26:58Yes.
26:58All right, mother.
27:00And if you want something hot, you'll have plenty of soup in the pot.
27:04Don't drink too much champagne, Lady Ashton.
27:06I won't, then.
27:07Good night.
27:11Well, uh, why don't you two go out?
27:14Who, me?
27:16Oh, now, don't be daft.
27:17You said today, mum, when dad needed a break, it's about time you had one too.
27:20Here, here, here.
27:21Look, I've got to feed the baby in a minute.
27:22Feed him, love, and go out.
27:24No, I couldn't.
27:25Fred, can you see a ball and chain round her leg?
27:27Oh, come on, let's go.
27:29And what happens if the sirens go?
27:31You catch the second house at the Roxy.
27:33If anything happens, you can be home in five minutes.
27:35I'll look after baby.
27:36Robert.
27:37Yeah, let me look after him before.
27:38I won't lose him down the plug-o.
27:40Oh, go on, you're on holiday.
27:41And what'll the girls do without you?
27:44Girls, I can take them all evening.
27:45Oh, listen to the he-man.
27:46I fancy a quiet evening.
27:48Hey, look, we could be back in time for half past ten feet.
27:51Come on, love.
27:52Do it to please me.
27:53Look, you go and feed baby, and I'll make a couple of quick sandwiches, eh?
27:57All right, then.
27:58That's my girl.
27:59Yeah, well, I'll just go and feed him and put him down, then, eh?
28:01I won't be long.
28:03Oh, loser will never cease, all you're doing, Robert.
28:05Yeah, well, you often have to talk to women.
28:20Father, do you have to?
28:22Why not?
28:24Well, why shouldn't I show you after my friends?
28:28Er, isn't that Cobham, the estate agent?
28:31That's him.
28:32Very big man.
28:33Good friend of mine.
28:34So, er, how are things at the works?
28:39Well, we can get the work, we can't get the paper.
28:41Twenty percent up in price.
28:42We're doing as well as anybody else is doing.
28:46Official stuff, mostly.
28:47Mm-hmm.
28:50Isn't that, er, Jessie Cobham over there?
28:53Do you know her?
28:54Well, I should do.
28:55We both taught at bell chambers before she was married.
28:58Well, go and have a word with her.
28:59Oh, no, no, no, no, she won't remember me.
29:02Come on, I'll introduce you.
29:04She'll be very interested, I'm sure.
29:07Stay somewhere.
29:15Is Dad interested in the property market?
29:17Huh?
29:19Playing up to old Cobham.
29:21I wonder if that's why he wanted me here.
29:23I wonder if he knew Cobham was coming.
29:24You know, he's so damn devious,
29:28he might get twisted trying to keep pace with him.
29:31He's proud of you, as he should be.
29:34Hmm.
29:36So, er, business isn't too bad, then?
29:39At the moment, prospects are pretty gloomy.
29:42In what way?
29:43Well, we've lost a lot of good men, makes a difference.
29:46When are we going to lose you?
29:48Me?
29:48Well, if you're losing good men,
29:50there must be places for some of the other good men,
29:52some of the other printers.
29:52Yes, well, I've had one goodish offer, I must admit.
29:57But you're not going to take it?
30:00I don't think so.
30:01Why?
30:02I mean, don't tell me it's loyalty to my father.
30:04To tell you the truth, I don't quite know why.
30:07Except at my age, you don't take too kindly to change.
30:11I've been with your father for 30 years, you know.
30:16I don't know how you've stuck it.
30:19Aren't things any better between you two?
30:21Yeah, on the surface, maybe.
30:26Underneath?
30:29I'm not sure there is anything underneath at all.
30:32I've read the character.
30:34To the stars.
30:37Yeah, I'm not Barry Fitzgerald.
30:39Oh, no.
30:40Did you enjoy it yourself?
30:42Yes, you've been to the flicks.
30:43Yes, I know.
30:44I just popped round so I thought I'd stay and keep Robert company.
30:47You two hungry?
30:50Famished.
30:50We only had a sandwich.
30:51Come on in.
30:52The feast is prepared.
30:54Here, did John give you any trouble?
30:56Trouble?
30:56He never gives me any trouble.
30:58Well, I'll just go and have a look at him.
31:00Oh, bless you, Robert.
31:02Your wife's going to be a lucky woman, can't we?
31:04Margaret.
31:05What was the film?
31:06The Good Art.
31:07Have you seen it?
31:07Oh, yes, I saw that when it first came round.
31:09I loved it.
31:10Yeah.
31:14He was sound asleep.
31:16I hadn't the heart to wake him for his feet.
31:17Oh, he'll let you know soon enough.
31:19Yes, well, thanks for changing him anyway.
31:21I never changed him.
31:22Oh?
31:22I did.
31:23Oh?
31:24Yeah, where did you learn to change a nappy like that?
31:26Nothing to it.
31:27Who's a clever little lad, then?
31:29Don't.
31:31Now you've done it.
31:32I didn't hurt him.
31:34You hurt his feelings.
31:35Because I called him a clever little lad.
31:37Look, he's 16.
31:39Before the year's out, he'll be at sea.
31:41He's not a little lad any longer.
31:43All right, I'll go and apologise.
31:45Well, for heaven's sake, use a bit of tact, love, eh?
31:4916, it doesn't seem right, does it, sending them out there at that age?
31:53I think that's what's going on in Mum's mind.
31:55Thanks, sir.
31:55What does your dad think?
31:57I don't think he's too keen, but I don't suppose he'll try to stop him when it comes to the point.
32:02I'm not looking forward to it.
32:05He's breaking off everything, this war.
32:07What are we going to be left with in the end?
32:09That's what they said after the last lot, love.
32:11I knew, David.
32:12The war to end all wars, they called it.
32:15There'll always be war.
32:16It's human nature.
32:17Oh, he's a real little optimist, your brother, isn't he?
32:19You've got to face the facts.
32:20You're the man who told me there's nothing to be ashamed of in the call of duty.
32:24Yeah, I know, but...
32:25Yes, well, it's not just a phrase, you know, David.
32:29It's your duty to the next generation, for one thing.
32:32You might understand that better if you had children of your own.
32:34Same again?
32:40Yes, please, back in a minute.
32:43Have you, uh, known her long?
32:47A couple of months.
32:49Our husband was a crewmate of mine.
32:51He bought it just after they came up here.
32:55Hey, Phil.
32:55It's not what you were thinking.
33:00I wasn't thinking anything.
33:04I'm not exactly her class anyway, am I?
33:09She's more your type.
33:11You get on well together, you two.
33:14Why not?
33:16I mean, what's stopping you?
33:17You're a free man, aren't you?
33:20I'll get those drinks.
33:25Did you get something?
33:44Yes, I popped out in the lunch hour.
33:46I think Tony will like it.
33:50Oh, a hip grasp.
33:53Ah, that is sensible.
33:54Well, it was the obvious choice as soon as I saw it.
33:56All those cold nights on the quarter day.
33:59How much did it cost?
34:0028 shillings.
34:01And you don't go running for your handbag, I trust you.
34:03Oh, I think you've made a very sensible choice, love.
34:06I won't be in for supper tonight, Mum.
34:08Peter rang.
34:08I'm going out with him.
34:09Oh, that's nice.
34:11Yes, I thought you'd be pleased.
34:13I like Peter Collins.
34:14He's a nice boy.
34:16Yeah, so everyone keeps telling me.
34:18Well, you know, a nice boy.
34:20You don't have to discourage him.
34:21I'm not, Mum.
34:22I'm going out with him.
34:24That's all I'm saying.
34:27I just think I ought to feel something.
34:32Don't you?
34:33Well, how do I know what I feel with everyone pushing me?
34:36Oh, no one's pushing you, love.
34:39You're not the one to be bossed.
34:40Oh, not much.
34:41Every time I come home, I can feel England expects all round me.
34:46Well, you...
34:46You can't make up your mind about someone without seeing them sometimes, now can you?
34:53As long as I don't have to see his mother.
34:55It's not his mother you'd be marrying, love.
34:59Marry?
35:00Hey, who's talking about marriage?
35:03Anyway, she's a number of Mrs. Porter, that one is.
35:05We all know what that means, don't we?
35:07Honestly, you reckon it all out, aren't you?
35:09It's all going on up here and you look as if you couldn't say boo to a goose.
35:12Oh, now, love.
35:14I just want to see you settle, that's all.
35:16Yeah, but settle with what, Mum?
35:18Hello, Susan.
35:23It's Philip Ashton.
35:25I got a message to ring you.
35:28Well, yes, we could meet you if you like.
35:30Tonight?
35:32Yes, all right, then.
35:34Yes, I'll be there.
35:39Oh, hello.
35:41I just popped in.
35:43I was going to leave this Mrs. Foster, but she said you were at home.
35:46I left the shop early.
35:48To see my son.
35:50Oh, well, we've...
35:52We've brought him a little present.
35:54It's from all of us.
35:55I hope he appreciates the thought.
36:00Hello.
36:01I won't wait.
36:03I've got to get back before Edwin.
36:05He's not here.
36:08Tony?
36:09He's gone.
36:11Gone back already, but I thought that...
36:13I don't know where he's gone.
36:14Couldn't even wait till I got home.
36:17Friends to visit, he says.
36:21Sefton, they only have a few days.
36:23Not two days.
36:24We must let them make the most of it.
36:25Not two days with me, and he's off.
36:28Couldn't even say goodbye decently.
36:30I could paper this room with the notes he's left me over the past year or two.
36:35Yes, but he'll be home again.
36:37He can please himself.
36:38It's an empty house without him.
36:47I'll eat of that.
36:57Well, you saw.
36:59I stood him a champagne dinner.
37:01Smoked someone.
37:02I'll tell you in confidence I've given him an allowance fit for a lord.
37:06I can't get through to him.
37:07No use.
37:10Not that he had much to say when he was here.
37:11If I hadn't asked you and Edwin to that dinner, it would have been more like a funeral party.
37:16I'm glad we were of some use.
37:17Don't you get at me?
37:18I'm not getting at you, Sefton.
37:20I do understand.
37:23I wonder.
37:23It makes you wonder.
37:28It makes you wonder what we bring them up for.
37:31So that they can go away and fight?
37:33Aye.
37:35You don't know the heartbreak you're making for yourself when you have them.
37:40Come on.
37:41Come on.
37:41Be a clever boy for Mummy.
37:43Come on.
37:43Try and hold it.
37:46He's smiling.
37:46Come on.
37:47Of course he's smiling.
37:48A couple of months' time, he'll be laughing out loud.
37:50I'll be home, then.
37:51It'll be me last time before I get a ship.
37:55You're in a mighty hurry to get to sea.
37:57Of course I am.
37:58Come on.
37:59Yeah, but he's twice his size when I come home.
38:02Here you are, Chucky.
38:03Come on, John.
38:04Give a smile for Robert.
38:06Come on.
38:10Sorry I'm late.
38:11That's all right.
38:14What would you like to do, then?
38:16What would you like to do?
38:18Pictures?
38:19Why not?
38:19No, you're sure you want to?
38:22I don't mind.
38:23There's a dance-on at the baths, you know.
38:26Whatever you like.
38:28I want you to choose what you'd like.
38:31Oh, Peter, you decide.
38:33You be the boss.
38:34All right.
38:35I only wanted to please you.
38:36I know.
38:40Only I just feel like being taken out.
38:46There we are.
38:47Thanks.
38:49I suppose David could be on ops tonight.
38:52Yes, I suppose he could.
38:53It's the right sort of weather.
38:54Yeah.
38:55I rang home.
38:56They had a raid last night.
38:57That's Liverpool, isn't it?
38:58What were you reading at Oxford?
39:03Modern Languages.
39:05Didn't stay on, though.
39:06Why?
39:07Well, this lot was blowing up, and I never actually earned my own living, and I should have done
39:12English anyway.
39:13Perhaps you'll be able to ask.
39:14Yes, perhaps.
39:16David didn't bother too much at school, did he?
39:18No.
39:19No, he was clever, too.
39:20It was pretty.
39:21Too keen on chasing the girls, I suppose.
39:24What makes you say that?
39:25Oh, instinct.
39:26I'm right, aren't I?
39:28Possibly.
39:31He's married, isn't he?
39:34Is that why you asked me here?
39:36So that you could ask me that?
39:38Partly.
39:39Couldn't you have asked him?
39:41Yes, I could.
39:42Only that way, he might have thought I was interested in him.
39:45And you're not?
39:48No, not in that way.
39:49He was a friend of my husband's.
39:51Yes, he told me.
39:53Look, you won't tell him that I...
39:55No, of course not.
39:57What's the book?
39:59It's, uh, Jode's Guide to Modern Wickedness.
40:01Oh, good.
40:02It's very readable, actually.
40:03In fact, I shall probably have finished it by tomorrow night.
40:06If you'd like to borrow it, perhaps we can meet here again.
40:10Yes, I'd like to borrow it.
40:13Is David...
40:15I mean, he's married, but that doesn't stop him being...
40:19Doesn't stop him being interested.
40:21Well?
40:21I think he is, I'm afraid.
40:26Well, I shall have to go soon.
40:28We have a roll call in camp at 11, and at 0-0-100 hours,
40:31my platoon will take over some very cold and very damp trenches
40:34to protect you from invasion.
40:35I shall sleep sound in my bed, knowing that.
40:44Here we are.
40:45How's your mother these days?
40:53How do you mean?
40:54Well, you know, you always do to complain that she fussed a lot.
40:57Molly coddle me, you mean?
40:59Yes, sort of.
41:00Yeah, well, she's worse since Danny went in the Navy.
41:03I see her sometimes when I'm coming home from work.
41:08I don't think she likes me very much.
41:11Why not?
41:12Oh, I don't know.
41:13Maybe it's me.
41:14Maybe I'll just imagine it.
41:15What makes you think she doesn't?
41:18Just her manner.
41:20Oh.
41:20I'm sorry.
41:22Oh, it's not your fault.
41:24It doesn't worry me, anyway.
41:26Since Danny went, she's only got me.
41:28That's her trouble.
41:35Frida, it was a nice evening, wasn't it?
41:38Yes, I enjoyed it very much.
41:41It was, wasn't it?
41:42I said it was, didn't I?
41:45We used to have a lot of fun in the old days.
41:47In the old days?
41:48You made me feel about 60.
41:49Oh, you know what I mean.
41:51I could do the biscuit.
41:52Would you like one?
41:53No, thanks.
41:54Well, I would.
41:54I want to talk to you.
41:56Well, let the kettle on.
41:57I must turn the gas off.
41:58Tell me when I come back.
41:58Frida, sit down!
42:03Well, if you insist.
42:06No.
42:07It's time you and I came to an understanding.
42:10Is it?
42:11Yes, it is.
42:15It's ridiculous.
42:17We've known each other since infant school
42:19and we've never talked seriously.
42:21Yes, we should have had a real long, serious talk
42:24when we sat next to each other in infant's class.
42:34Well?
42:36Well, what?
42:38Well, when you've been kissed,
42:39you don't say, well, what?
42:40What do I say?
42:41Oh, come back here, will you?
42:43Sorry, Peter.
42:44Caughting on the sofa's not my line.
42:49We used to kiss like anything once.
42:52In the old days.
42:56Oh, I'm sorry.
42:57I just don't want to be tied down, that's all.
42:59I'm not asking you to be tied down.
43:03Just to...
43:05Well, to give me a chance.
43:08Peter, I'm not promising anyone anything.
43:10I... I can't.
43:11But we will go out more often.
43:13Well, if you want to.
43:17Yes, all right, we'll go out more often.
43:19How about the day after tomorrow?
43:20Oh, look, give me a chance.
43:21I don't know from one day to the next at the hotel.
43:26Okay.
43:28I can take a hint.
43:29Oh, don't be like that.
43:31It was a nice evening, honestly.
43:33You give me a ring, that's the best thing.
43:36Give me a ring.
43:36Oh, it's lovely.
43:48Oh, it's just lovely.
43:50Oh, and he's got such adorable soft fur.
43:52I know John George will want it until he's older.
43:54I know you can put it away for him.
43:55Yes, I will.
43:57Hey, no, I won't.
43:57I shall want to hug him myself.
43:59I shall keep him on my chest of drawers.
44:01It was the last one in the shop.
44:02They're not making him anymore because of the war,
44:03so I thought I'd better buy it now.
44:05Oh, well, I don't ask what it costs.
44:07I'm not sure of a bob or two.
44:10Meg, I was thinking about baby.
44:14Well, he is a boy.
44:16Yes, well, I think that's been established.
44:18No, what I mean is you mustn't spoil him, you know.
44:21No, I won't.
44:21Well, it's not good for little boys to be spoiled,
44:23only they can be spoiled when there's only a...
44:28I know.
44:30My Johnny won't be a mother's boy.
44:33I take a great interest in him, Meg.
44:34Well, I'm very happy you do,
44:35because he won't be spoiled with an uncle like you.
44:37That's what I was thinking.
44:38I'm sure he'll be crazy about his uncle.
44:41He'll be on at you day and night
44:42to tell him all about your adventures at sea.
44:46Meg, when I go off,
44:49I mean, you'll be all on your own.
44:51I know Dad's here to look after you,
44:52but it shouldn't be all on him.
44:53I shall be going back to teaching, sir.
44:55I know, but you do need someone.
44:58I'd like to put you down for an allowance.
45:00Your pay?
45:01An apprentice's pay?
45:03Oh, now, look.
45:04It's the sweetest thing I ever heard,
45:06but I wouldn't dream.
45:07I wouldn't miss it.
45:08But you've got to have some money in your pocket
45:09when you go ashore in all those foreign ports.
45:12I shall expect you to buy me lots of presents.
45:15I will, but...
45:16No.
45:20Oh, I'm okay.
45:23Thanks, but you let me feel independent, eh?
45:28I will put you down as my next of kin, though.
45:33Next of kin?
45:34I've got a few quid put away.
45:35It'll be for John George.
45:36Oh, only talking.
45:43And...
45:44Well, don't look at me like that.
45:46Nothing's going to happen.
45:47I'm going to have a smashing time.
45:48It's...
45:48It's just a formality.
45:50Just forget I said anything.
45:56You're a very good person, Robert.
45:58Oh, come on.
46:03Let's have a smile.
46:05Meg.
46:06Meg.
46:07Why don't you come out with us?
46:09What, now?
46:10Why not?
46:10We last afternoon.
46:11I'll take you to our posh tea shop.
46:15All right, then.
46:17Uh, Mum?
46:19Hey, Mum, will you be staying in?
46:22I can't leave the baking, love.
46:24Only, uh...
46:24Ah, Robert's taking me out.
46:26Could you look after Johnny for me?
46:27Oh, you go on.
46:29Don't you worry about the baby.
46:30Oh, thanks, Mum.
46:31Well, I'll just go and get ready, then.
46:38Meg.
46:41I'll pay.
46:42I should hope so, too.
46:44When a man takes me out, he'd better do it properly.
46:57Mum.
46:58Mum.
46:59You're taking Margaret out?
47:01Yeah.
47:03Um, Mum?
47:06Yes?
47:07I, um...
47:08Uh, well...
47:10I'm a bit short.
47:13Been leading a riotous life with that friend, have you?
47:15No, Mum.
47:16Hmm.
47:17What have you done with it, then?
47:20I...
47:20Oh, look, it's only to take Margaret out.
47:23How much do you want?
47:25Oh, ten bob will do.
47:25It's a loan, Mum.
47:26I'll give it to you back.
47:27It's all right, love.
47:28I shan't die of worry.
47:29There you are.
47:30Oh, Taa.
47:31You give Margaret a treat, eh?
47:33It's worth a guinea box, what you've done for her.
47:37We'll be going overseas before long.
47:39Should you tell me that?
47:42Nobody's told us.
47:43We just feel it in our bones.
47:46Instinct.
47:47Something like that.
47:48Do you mind?
47:50Don't know.
47:51I mean, I mind the whole thing, really.
47:53Not being able to do the things I really want to do.
47:55What did you want to do?
47:57Oh, well, now, there you have me.
47:59Didn't even have time to sort that one out.
48:02Jack didn't either.
48:03You know about Jack?
48:04Yeah.
48:06He often used to talk about what he'd do after the war.
48:10I sometimes find myself thinking about it now, as if it's too matted.
48:14Well, look what the wind's blowing in.
48:16Oh, hello, David.
48:19I rang the centre today.
48:20He said I might find you here.
48:23Can I get you two lovebirds a drink?
48:26No thanks, David.
48:27I'm fine.
48:28So they've called you all our path, then?
48:30Yeah, bad weather over Germany.
48:36See, you two have been getting together, then.
48:39Any objections?
48:41Why should I have any objections?
48:44Well, aren't you going to sit down?
48:47Play gooseberry.
48:48Look, David, stop being a pillock.
48:51Has he been talking to you about me?
48:53The irresponsible big brother who needs looking after.
48:57Married man with two children.
48:58Disgusting.
48:59None of that, Phil.
49:02Scout's honour.
49:03We haven't said a word about you all evening.
49:06Oh, I see you've been talking about college, have you?
49:09Or has he been quoting poetry at you?
49:11He's very hot on the old poetry, aren't you, Phil?
49:13Well, I'm off.
49:18I need to kip anyway.
49:19Oh, don't bother to get up or let me sort it out.
49:21David.
49:25David, don't be daft.
49:28Don't be daft.
49:29You've told her I'm married, I suppose.
49:34She knew.
49:35Anyway, you are married.
49:39You really think I'm after it, don't you?
49:42Well?
49:45Oh, Phil, you just don't know too much.
49:49You're still wet behind the ears, kid.
49:52Look, our husband was a mate of mine.
49:55He's only been dead for two minutes.
49:56I mean, what do you take me for?
49:57All right, look, I'm sorry, I was wrong.
50:01I know I didn't go to college and all that, Phil, but...
50:04You know, I'm capable of needing a woman just to talk to.
50:08Yeah, look, David, let's stop getting at each other, shall we?
50:11I'm expecting to go overseas.
50:14Since when?
50:15Well, they got the tropical kids in the stores today.
50:19I see.
50:21So I'll come back and have a drink, eh?
50:22Two's company, threes and on.
50:32Go and enjoy yourself, kid.
50:34Go on.
50:38Yes.
50:43You sure you're all right hitchhiking, then?
50:46I'll be right as rain once I get on the main road.
50:47Well, you've got enough for your fare if you need it, haven't you?
50:52Well, are you too old to give your mother a kiss, or are you?
50:58Bye, love.
50:59Bye-bye, love.
51:00Take care of yourself.
51:01I will.
51:02Oh, wait a minute.
51:09Don't worry, Mum.
51:10Sit down, Mum.
51:29Sit down, Mum.
51:34Sit down, Mum.
51:35Sit down, Mum.