My Mother and Other Strangers, RTÉ One, Tuesday, November 29nd at 22.15pm
Episode 4 of 5
Rose’s sister Vera arrives in Moybeg for her annual visit much to the delight of Emma, Francis and Kate. Michael looks on wearily as Vera fills Emma’s head with talk of boys, and offers with a wink, to help in the Pub later on.
The next day, as Rose and Vera walk through the parish, Captain Dreyfuss pulls up in his jeep to ask for Rose’s help with a project – a Christmas party for the children on the base. Vera is blown away by this handsome Captain. That evening Vera sashays into the bar looking spectacular. Davey, Ned and the American pilots are mesmerised and request a song but as the atmosphere gets a little too raucous Michael asks Vera to go home.
The following morning, Rose tends to a hung-over Vera and learns her sister is attracted to Dreyfuss. Vera takes the opportunity to flirt with Dreyfuss and invites him to lunch. Much to Vera’s delight Dreyfuss accepts but asks if he can bring another office. Rose, having a rare drink, opens up to Vera about her longing for Dreyfuss, despite being happily married. She asks Vera to spare Dreyfuss so that she can hold on to her dream.
As Rose nervously sets the table Vera opens the door to Captain Dreyfuss and Lieutenant Tillie Zeigler. Vera is shocked by the beautiful nurse but recovers well. Rose on the other hand is completely gob smacked. Vera and Tillie discuss Michael at lunch and Dreyfuss realises he’s made a mistake inviting Tillie.
Rose is played by Hattie Morahan, Michael by Owen McDonnell, Captain Dreyfuss by Aaron Staton and Dr Black by Charles Lawson.