Dark Shadows Episode 1224 3/4/71

You can stream today's episode free on TubiTV 

'Morgan' comes upstairs from the cellar with a book. Julia and Catherine arrive and ask what he's doing. He tells them he goes where he pleases. Julia asks what he did to Carrie. He tells her that he did nothing; that she just went into a strange state. Julia rouses her, and she says she knows who he is: James Forsythe. Julia says he's the one who put the curse on the Collins family. He says James Forsythe had nothing to do with the curse. He does admit to being James Forsythe. Catherine tries to convince him that he's Morgan. He tells her that Morgan is dead, and will never come back to her. Julia tells him that they have Forysthe's ledger at Collinwood. He holds up a book and says that he has found all that he is looking for, and walks out.

Daphne is in the old house when Bramwell returns. She asks where he's been. He asks if he went to Collinwood, and if Catherine is alright. He says that she is; that Morgan took her place in the room, and he survived. He says he couldn't get more details from Julia. Daphne asks him what else is troubling him. He tells her that he's not in a mood  to talk, and she points out that he hasn't been in the mood since they got married. She implores him to talk to her. He says it doesn't concern her. It happened before the duel that brought them together. She asks if it's Catherine, and then adds that it's always Catherine. 

Forsythe reads from the book, referencing a Sarah, saying that she is the soul of treachery. The writer is Brutus Collins, who appears to have killed and buried Sarah. He says that he now knows what he must do, and tonight he shall attend to it. 

Julia asks Catherine if she now believes in the curse. Catherine asks her if she thinks Morgan will go on like this from now on. Catherine feels faint, and tells Julia that it must be everything that's happening getting to her. Julia asks her if she's sure that's all it is. Julia tells her to sit down, and goes to get her smelling salts. 

Bramwell comes in and finds Catherine sitting in the drawing room. He closes the doors. She asks if he's seen Morgan. He asks her what happened last night. She explains that Morgan came out of the room possessed. He tells her that he knew she would find nothing but misery in the house. He asks if she intends to bring up their child in the house he hates so much. Julia comes in and asks why he's there if he hates the house so much. He asks Julia if anyone is looking for Morgan. Julia asks why he's suddenly so concerned. He leaves, and Julia asks Catherine if the two of them still have secrets between them. Catherine denies it. Julia asks what Bramwell was talking about before she walked in. She reiterates that Catherine should not see him alone. She explains that Bramwell has never come to the house on her invitation. Julia gives her the smelling salts, if she needs them, insinuating that she doesn't. 

Forsythe sneaks into the cottage and knocks something over, waking Carrie. She asks what he's doing there. He explains that he wants to turn back time. He asks her if the rooms are inhabited by the spirit of someone who was brutally murdered. She says she has not, and asks who he's referring to. He says Sarah Forsythe, and he doesn't know where she was buried. He says he knows that she's buried there someplace. Carrie tries to run out, but he grabs her and locks her into her room.

Bramwell returns to the old house. He tells Daphne that she shouldn't have waited up. He says he found out about Morgan — he's in a state of possession, and they can't find him. He tells her that he's too tired to talk, and goes upstairs. She asks if he told Catherine what's bothering him, or if she already knew. He says she has no right to make such an insinuation. She asks why he had to see Catherine alone, saying she could have gone, too, considering she's her sister. She suggests that he still loves Catherine. He tells Daphne that if she wants to leave, she can go. If she wants to be his wife, she has to stay.

Forsythe is in the basement of the cottage where he has exhumed a body. A wind blows through the room, and Forsythe says he knows Brutus is there. He demands that he show himself so he can fight him again. He calls for Brutus to show himself, and finds himself face to face with him again.                                                                                 

                                                                           

Our thoughts:  

John: What's with Forsythe initially referring to himself in third person? Do you think it was scripted that way, or just the actor blowing his lines?

 

Christine: Probably the latter, though it's possible that Morgan is bleeding through. 

                                                                                                                           

John: Always nice to see the skeleton(s) get some work, even if only in a parallel-time grave. Wouldn't you expect that if there were a body buried in the cellar of the cottage, someone with Carrie's abilities might have sensed it?

 
Christine: I think Carrie is a fledgling psychic who only had rudimentary training with the great Gerard Stiles. Her abilities are definitely hit and miss. 

John: Do you suppose Brutus will be a familiar face? I know I've already complained about this broken branch of parallel time, but does anyone really care about why Brutus and Forsythe have some 150-year-old beef?

 

Christine: It's likely Brutus is someone familiar since he was so carefully kept from view today. It is difficult to be interested in Forsythe and Brutus, even with skeletal remains on hand. I found myself missing Julia Hoffman, Barnabas, and the original Collins family clan today. 

 

Dark Shadows Episode 1221 3/1/71

You can stream today's episode free on TubiTV 

Morgan tells Catherine that he knew it would be her, and that he's not going to let her go into the room. She tells him that she agreed to the rules, and he tells her that it isn't fair. He says he wants to take her place. He tells her he'll order a carriage and he'll take her away from Collinwood. She tells him that the family says they can't run away from the curse. She tells him they must face it. He reminds her what happened to Gabriel. She tells him that she doesn't believe in the curse, so it has no power over her. She tells him that it's fear alone. Morgan asks her about Gabriel's friend Tim. She suggests that Gabriel may have killed him. He tries to assure her that she's wrong about the room. She tells him that she will break the curse.

Bramwell sits by the fire thinking about Catherine. Daphne returns and he doesn't seem particularly happy to see her. She asks him if something happened. He compliments her, and they kiss. There's a knock at the door. It's Julia. She tells him he looks disappointed, and asks if he was expecting someone else. He invites her in. She congratulates her and Daphne, and gives them a gift. Bramwell opens it. It's a portrait of his father. Julia says the old house seemed the logical place for it. Bramwell thanks her, and offers her a brandy. She accepts, and he goes to get her the drink. Julia tells Daphne that they held the lottery this afternoon, and Catherine drew the lot. Bramwell returns and asks if she was planning to tell him, too. Daphne says they have to stop her, and Julia says they cannot. Bramwell tells her that they all seem to look upon the lottery with strange pride. He says he hopes Catherine has enough common sense not to go through with it. While they're arguing, Daphne rushes out.

Daphne arrives at Collinwood and finds Catherine in the drawing room. She begs her not to go into the room tonight. Catherine tells her sister that she intends to do what's expected of her. Daphne says the risk isn't worth taking. Catherine assures her that she'll be alright. Catherine asks her if she's happy with Bramwell. Daphne says that they've only been married for a day, so it's too early to say. Catherine asks her how long it will take for her to realize the mistake she made. Morgan comes in and asks her why she's come. Daphne asks Morgan if he's going to let Catherine to go into the room. She reminds him that he can forbid it as her husband. She asks Catherine if her life is so miserable that she wants to end it.

Bramwell is waiting in the garden when Catherine arrives. She says it was difficult getting out of the house without arousing suspicion. He reminds her that she's carrying their child. She says that if she goes into the room now, the child may be spared suffering in the future. She tells him that she'll overcome the curse. She suggests that he's only concerned about their child. He tells her that nothing must happen to her. She says that she never would have dreamed that they would be forced to meet together like this. They kiss passionately. She pulls away, and reminds him that they're both married. He begs her to reconsider. She leaves him in the gazebo.

Morgan returns to Collinwood, and Julia asks where he has been. She explains that she's worried about him. She says she knows he doesn't want Catherine to go into the room, and she was afraid he might have tried to interfere with that. He tells her that he's resigned himself to the fact that Catherine must go in, and go in alone. He asks Julia to be the one to bring Catherine to the room tonight. She agrees. Catherine comes in and tells him that she understands. She kisses him. 

Bramwell returns to the old house. He tells Daphne he had to try to stop Catherine. Daphne tells him that she loves him, and says she'll make him a good wife. She adds that they'll travel, and work hard together, and someday she'll give him a son to be proud of. He seems troubled, and she asks him what's wrong.

Morgan tells Catherine that it's time. She assures him that everything will be alright in the morning. Julia arrives to escort her to the room.  

Julia and Catherine arrive at the room. Julia tries to open the door, but the key doesn't work. From inside the room, Morgan tells them that the lock has been changed, and Quentin has the only key.

Our thoughts:  

John: Morgan is such a loser. I can almost understand why Catherine would be willing to risk death just to get out of being married to him... of course, the smarter play would have been to let him go into the room. Of course now the big question is will he be crazy or dead come morning...

 

Christine: Sadly, I have a feeling he'll come out okay just so he can continue to annoy us all. I'm hoping Bramwell will go to the door of the locked room and tell him that he got Catherine pregnant while he's stuck in the room for the night. That alone should drive him mad.

                                                                                                                           

John: Gotta love how Daphne tries to convince Morgan that he can forbid his wife from doing anything. As if. The guy has no backbone.

 
Christine: I was excited to see Julia bringing a portrait to Bramwell and Daphne as a wedding gift, though I was hoping it would be a new portrait. Do you suppose we'll ever find out what happened to Barnabas, or are these constant reminders of him to appease the fans who are missing him on the show?

John: Catherine is an odd duck. I'm having trouble understanding how she keeps getting drawn back to Bramwell. And if she is attracted to his bad-boy antics, why not just give in to that? I certainly don't think she's avoiding him out of any sense of loyalty to Daphne, particularly after they were making out in the garden...

 

Christine: Really? You don't understand why Catherine is drawn to Bramwell? Let me spell it out for you: it's the S.E.X. It turns out that Bramwell is a lot like vampire Barnabas in the way he attacks Catherine's lips with the same ferocity that Barnabas chomped the ladies' necks. 

Dark Shadows Episode 1219 2/25/71

You can stream today's episode free on TubiTV 

Of the entire 1245 episode run (1225 + 20 pre-emptions), it's miraculous that only one episode is lost to the ages — the episode that originally aired 50 years ago today. For the home video releases, MPI/Dan Curtis Productions recreated the episode with clips and stills from surrounding episodes, an audio recording of the episode, and a narrative recreation read by Lara Parker. It opens with the closing footage of yesterday's episode.

Daphne visits Carrie. She asks Carrie to help her make a decision by looking into the future. Carrie warns her that she can't control what she sees. Carrie sees Bramwell with a sad look on his face. She sees that he's standing in the cemetery, looking at Daphne's grave, with 1841 listed as her year of death.

Daphne gets Carrie to admit that it's her grave that she saw. Daphne believes the vision was wrong, and is not dissuaded. 

Morgan returns to Collinwood and tells Catherine that he was unable to convince Kendrick from going to the police. He says he was covinced Gabriel killed his sister. He says the police are searching for Gabriel. He blames Gabriel for attacking Kendrick, and says that's going to all but convince the authorities that he's guilty. He says they all would have been better off if Gabriel had just gone into the room. He is surprised that Catherine is not really paying attention to him. He asks her what's wrong, and she tells him that Daphne and Bramwell are to be married. Morgan is shocked by the news. He asks if she spoke with Daphne, and she says she won't listen to anyone. She says there must be something they can do to stop them, and he reminds her that Daphne's an adult, and can do as she chooses. He says he doesn't have time to worry about Daphne and Bramwell. He says he has to worry about Gabriel and the curse. Catherine is furious that he puts the lottery before her family. They argue, and he asks her if she's concerned about Daphne's future, or if she's having second thoughts about not ending up with Bramwell. Catherine angrily storms out on him. 

In the old house, Daphne sits by the fire. Bramwell asks if she's had time to think about her answer. He asks if she needs more time. She says she doesn't. 

Carrie comes to Collinwood looking for Quentin. Morgan explains that he's in town. He invites her in to sit by the fire. He asks her what's so important that it couldn't wait until morning. She says she was looking through trunks in the basement of the cottage, and found a letter addressed to James Forsythe. Morgan reads the letter. It's a love letter from someone with the initial, A. Morgan asks her if there's anything else she can tell him about the note. He asks if she can determine who the person named A is. She asks to see the letter, and when he goes to get it, the lights turn out and the wind blows through the room. The letter bursts into flame. Carrie screams and says that a cold hand brushed across her cheek.  She tells Morgan that a cruel, evil spirit is with them in the room.

At the old house, Bramwell tries to convince Daphne that Carrie's 'visions' are nonsense. He assures her that she will live a long and happy life. He asks if she's changed her mind about them, and she says she has not. She says she knows he would never do anything to hurt her. 

Bramwell comes to see Flora. Morgan lets him in, and asks what he wants with her. Bramwell explains that they want to tell her, as mistress of Collinwood, that he and Daphne are now man and wife. In the foyer, Catherine collapses.

Bramwell, Daphne and Morgan are in the foyer waiting to hear from the doctor examining Catherine. Morgan tells them to wait in the study. They agree.

Catherine insists that the doctor tell her husband exactly what she told him to. 

The doctor tells Morgan that Catherine is physically sound, just under emotional strain. 

Morgan tells Catherine that he doesn't understand why she collapsed. She explains it was a dizzy spell, brought on by Daphne's marriage to Bramwell,  the lottery, and their argument last night. She gets up to congratulate Daphne and Bramwell.

Catherine goes to the study to congratulate Daphne and Bramwell.

Later, Catherine visits Bramwell at the old house. He explains that Daphne has gone into the village, and she asks to come in to speak to him privately. He lets her in. She says she didn't faint due to a dizzy spell. She tells him that she's pregnant — with his child!

Our thoughts:  

John: Ah, the infamous lost episode of Dark Shadows! I recall reading about this going in, but didn't remember exactly where it landed in the show's run. I guess this is just another reminder of how close to the end we are (and let's face it, if we had to lose an episode, I can't think of a better storyline to do it than 1841 parallel time). Still, it's somewhat odd having storytime with Lara Parker...

 

Christine: I thought she was the ideal narrator. 

                                                                                                                           

John: I have to admit, I'm surprised that the marriage of Bramwell and Daphne took place offscreen (though it does make for a good surprise announcement — one you'd think they might have held for an episode cliffhanger).

 
Christine: I love how Daphne shrugs off Carrie's vision of her impending death. So, who is the mysterious A? Could there be another Angelique in this time band? 

John: After nearly five years, with just a handful of episodes remaining, we have our first pregnancy in Collinsport (the fast-growing Leviathan baby-spawn doesn't count)! If only the writers had managed to work this soap opera trope into normal time! Still, this is one loose end that I don't expect we'll see completely tied up in the remaining weeks of the show...

 

Christine: It's going to be a problem for Catherine to explain her baby bump to Morgan, though maybe he'll be chosen in the next lottery and she'll avoid having to confront him about it. 

Dark Shadows Episode 1218 2/24/71

You can stream today's episode free on TubiTV 

Daphne returns to Collinwood to tell Catherine that she's going to marry Bramwell. Catherine runs off into the night.

Bramwell is drinking in the old house when Catherine comes to see him. He says he knew she would come. He tells her that she isn't going to stop his marriage any more than he stopped hers. She says she won't stand by while he ruins her sister's life. He asks her if she's making Morgan's life better, and she says that she loves him. She tells him that he's bitter and resentful, and asks if her sister should have to pay the price for his feelings towards the Collins family. She accuses him of playing a selfish, vicious game. He tells her that it's settled — it's what he wants, and what Daphne wants. Catherine storms out.

Carrie comes downstairs and finds Daphne in the drawing room. She asks how Daphne is doing, and says she knows that something is bothering her. Daphne asks why she's looking at her so strangely. Carrie explains that she had a feeling that someone wasn't going to let her do something. She says sometimes when she tells people the things she sees, they get upset. Catherine returns to Collinwood and tells Carrie goodnight. Taking the cue, Carrie leaves. 

Daphne says she can't believe that she was naive enough to think Catherine could be happy for her. Catherine tells her she'll do everything in her power to stop the wedding. Daphne says she loves Bramwell, and wants to marry him. Catherine says she's a fool for thinking he loves her. Daphne accuses her of being selfish. She says Catherine is the one who is afraid to face the truth. Catherine begs her to reconsider. Daphne refuses. Catherine tells her that she will soon know what a marriage without love is. Daphne's retort is, "as you do, Catherine."

Bramwell's mother is surprised to hear of his plans. She asks if it's what he truly wants. She says she knows him better than anyone, and asks if he's marrying for love, or to get back at Catherine and the others at Collinwood. He tells her that he does not feel that he is being unfair to anyone. She says she doesn't think there has been a greater love than that between her and his father, Barnabas. She asks if he'll be able to say the same thing at her age. 

Daphne returns, and Bramwell asks her if Catherine was able to change her mind. Josette asks if Catherine was opposed, and Daphne confirms it. She tells Daphne that she'd be a welcome daughter, but it may be a mistake to rush into something that will alienate so many people. Josette leaves them. Barnabas asks her what's giving her doubts. She says he has never told her that he loves her. He says he asked her to marry him. She points out that he hasn't said the words. He accuses Catherine of poisoning her mind. Daphne asks why there's so much emotion in his voice when he speaks of Catherine. She adds that he has yet to say the words. He tells her he loves her, and she says she knows he doesn't mean what he just said. He asks if she wants to marry him, and she says she doesn't know. She says they need to be open and honest with one another. He tells her that his love can grow. She asks him to give her until morning. 

Josette goes to visit Catherine. Catherine tells her that it won't help for her to plead Bramwell's case. She tells her that she couldn't agree with her more. Catherine is surprised. She says that she shouldn't have reacted as she did. She says it was exactly what Bramwell predicted, and she succeeded in confusing Daphne. She says the wedding can't be stopped by a show of pressure. Catherine says she can't stand by and do nothing. Josette tells Catherine that she and Bramwell could have been happy, if only she had been willing to wait. 

Daphne visits Carrie. She asks Carrie to help her make a decision by looking into the future. Carrie warns her that she can't control what she sees. Carrie sees Bramwell with a sad look on his face. She sees that he's standing in the cemetery, looking at Daphne's grave, with 1841 listed as her year of death.

Our thoughts:  

John: It seems pretty clear to everyone but Daphne that Bramwell doesn't really love her. In any other time band, I'd say 'Daphne' would be the better catch for 'Barnabas' than 'Angelique', but since Bramwell's such a slimy guy, he doesn't deserve a nice girl like her.

 

Christine: She acknowledged that he didn't mean what he said after she cajoled him into saying he loved her, so I think she knows. Bramwell is rather spoiled and entitled, but perhaps it's because he doesn't have his dad around to advise him in a way that would have us adding to the slap tracker. I hope we might get around to hearing how Barnabas met his demise. 

                                                                                                                           

John: Nice Freudian slip when Bramwell calls Daphne Catherine! At that point she should have realized that things were in trouble!

 
Christine: I think Josette's reticence to give her blessing on the union may be enough to change Daphne's mind, though Carrie's vision should be the tipping point, that is, if she decides to tell her about it. We are really knee deep in soap opera romance now, aren't we? 

John: So, do you suppose there's a Widows' Hill in this time band? Daphne seems like just the gal to take a flying leap...

 

Christine: If there's a Josette and a Barnabas and a Collinwood, then there's definitely a Widows' Hill. 

 

Dark Shadows Episode 1217 2/23/71

You can stream today's episode free on TubiTV 

Kendrick waits for Melanie in the drawing room. Gabriel sneaks into the room with a knife. He approaches Kendrick and tells him that the same thing that happened to his sister is going to happen to him, too. Gabriel tells him there has to be death in the house. Kendrick tells him he's insane. Morgan hears from outside the door but can't get in because the door is locked. They grapple, with Gabriel ultimately stabbing Kendrick. Morgan gets in with a spare key, but Gabriel is nowhere to be seen. Morgan tells him it's only a flesh wound, and they'll take care of it. Kendrick says just like his sister. Catherine arrives and Morgan goes searching for Gabriel. Catherine calls to Daphne.

Gabriel sneaks through the secret passages in Collinwood. He goes into a room and sees a portrait of Brutus Collins. Gabriel believes Brutus is responsible for the locked room and the lottery. He tells Brutus he's going to die again, and he cuts the portrait with his knife. He then lights the remains of the painting on fire.

Morgan hears Gabriel laughing, and talking to Brutus. Morgan comes in and attempts to put out the fire. Gabriel leaves the room and locks the door with Morgan inside. 

Daphne finds Catherine and tells her that Kendrick will be alright. She says she's going back to the old house, and Catherine forbids it while Gabriel is loose. They are unaware that Gabriel is listening to them from behind the secret passage. Catherine says the best thing for them to do is stay together and wait. Daphne asks about Julia, and Catherine says nothing frightens her — except perhaps love. Daphne says she's going to go to the old house. Catherine asks her if she knew Bramwell came to visit. She tells her that she was glad to see he him alive. Daphne asks if she told him she disapproved with her going to the old house, and Catherine  confirms that she did. Catherine says she can't spend her life with him in the old house, bitter and fuming over the Collins family. Daphne asks if she hates him. Catherine says she has no choice anymore, and begs her sister to stay away from him as she runs out crying.

Gabriel sneaks into the drawing room with his knife. Daphne sees him and tells him to keep back. She tells him that Kendrick is going to be alright. He goes to stab her and she screams. She tells him he doesn't want to kill her. Bramwell comes in and calls Gabriel, stopping him. Daphne runs to Bramwell, and Gabriel runs out through the window. Catherine appears and asks what happened. Bramwell leaves to pursue Gabriel. Catherine asks about Morgan, and heads into the secret panel.

Kendrick comes downstairs and tells Daphne the sooner he leaves, the better. He tells her that when he finds Gabriel, there will be one less Collins to worry about. 

Gabriel is in the woods, clutching his knife. He suddenly wonders what he's doing. 

Morgan tells Catherine that he told a servant to take Daphne back to the old house. He says that tomorrow they will hold the lottery again. He says if Bramwell finds Gabriel, he'll turn him over to the police. Catherine reminds him that Gabriel was ready to burn down the house. She says the Collins' family always blames everything on the locked room. Morgan asks her what Bramwell was doing at the house, and she points out that he saved Daphne. 

Bramwell returns to the old house alone and finds Daphne waiting for him. She thanks him for saving her. He starts to say he had to go to Collinwood, and she suggests that he was coming to see Catherine. He denies it, and asks if she believes him. She tells him she'll believe anything he says. He asks if she's in love with him.

Morgan tells Catherine that Bramwell will try and use this incident for his own good. He wonders how he'll tell his mother about Gabriel. 

Catherine answers a knock at the front door. It's Daphne. She says she came to tell her that she's going to marry Bramwell. Catherine runs off into the night.

Bramwell is drinking in the old house when Catherine comes to see him. He says he knew she would come. He tells her that she isn't going to stop his marriage any more than he stopped hers.

Our thoughts:  

John: It seems silly that they can't find Gabriel after watching him go through the secret door. Was anyone else disappointed that Kendrick's stabbing was just a flesh wound?

 

Christine: I like Kendrick, so I'm glad it was only a flesh wound. Who else can we count on to rescue sweet Melanie from the abuse and madness at Collinwood? It is an interesting parallel to Desmond and Leticia, with him receiving a wound in the same place Desmond did.

                                                                                                      

John: So, are we to understand that Brutus' room is only accessible through the secret passages in the house? I'd like to know who lit those candles. And I hope you got a good shot of that portrait, before it got cut up. Is Brutus a dead-wringer for any other clan members in our time or parallel time?

Christine: Why, I most certainly did capture the portrait of Brutus, as well as the sacrifice of yet another portrait on the show. I suppose it's too late for a portrait destruction tracker. I think that the secret passage is just a more expedient way to get to the rooms in the house that are closed off and unoccupied. The lit candles seem to suggest someone has created a shrine to Brutus, though it's possible Gabriel is the one responsible. It was interesting to hear him talk about the "thing" in the room. 

John: I guess Morgan wasn't engulfed in flames, and managed to find a way out of the locked room. I thought his father the ghost might appear to a) help him out, and b) remind him it's lottery-time!

 

Christine: Melanie was always Justin's favorite, so I guess he'll only rouse his spirit to communicate with her. As predicted, Bramwell knew the best way to get back at Catherine was to marry her innocent, young sister. 

 

Dark Shadows Episode 1213 2/17/71

You can stream today's episode free on TubiTV 

Julia and Morgan go to the tower room and find that Gabriel is no longer there. Morgan notices sheets tied together and hanging out the window. He says he'll go after him. Julia says that they have to have the lottery again; someone must stay in that room tonight. Morgan says he didn't have any money, so he couldn't have gone far. He suggests that he went to Bramwell. Julia says he wouldn't help Gabriel, and Morgan says Bramwell would do anything to spite him. Julia says that she'll go talk to Bramwell, and tells Morgan to check if a horse is missing from the stables. 

Daphne stands at the window and tells Bramwell that she sees Gabriel rushing by on a horse. He tells her not to speak of Collinwood. He says that Catherine was lured into that house. Daphne tells him that he's being unfair to Catherine. He tells her that she's a sweet tender child, and she assures him that she's a woman; a young woman — but a woman. He realizes that she is. He asks her about her life since he went away. She explains that she grew up. She says she doesn't have any more freedom; not like if she was a man. He tells her to marry her sweetheart. She tells him that she doesn't have one. She says she went out with Gerard Stiles for a while, the man with psychic powers. She says he taught her to read palms, and she offers to read his. She tells him that she sees happiness in his future. 

There's a knock on the door, and Julia comes in. She asks if Gabriel came by. Daphne says that she saw him ride by. Julia explains that the held the lottery last night, and Gabriel ran away. He realizes that she thinks he was helping Gabriel. He tells her to tell Morgan that he would have helped Gabriel if he asked for it. He tells her to have Morgan and Quentin draw again. Julia explains that the women are in the lottery as well. She asks Bramwell to keep Gabriel there if he does come to see him, to prevent Catherine from being part of the lottery. After she leaves, Bramwell tells Daphne that if Catherine wants to be a Collins, then they should let her draw.

Morgan tells Catherine that a horse is missing. He says if they can't find him, one of them may end up having to go into the room. She assures Morgan that he will find Gabriel. Julia returns and tells them that Gabriel hadn't been to the old house, but Daphne saw him riding by on a horse. Morgan asks what she's doing with Bramwell. She explains that she's helping treat him. Bramwell tells Catherine to get her sister back to Collinwood, reminding her that Bramwell is his enemy. Julia reminds him that she'll be exposed to the plague at Collinwood. Morgan points out that if Julia saw her, she's already been exposed. Catherine says that Daphne may have been exposed, but the people of the village have not. She says that Morgan can't go to the village. Morgan says he must get Gabriel into that room tonight, if it's the last thing that he does.

Gabriel is in the Eagle drinking when Morgan arrives. He tells Morgan to sit down with him. Gabriel says that he didn't have to stop at the Eagle. He says he wanted them to find him. He adds that he knew he couldn't get away, and that he'd have to go into the room. He says he knows that he's going to die in that room. He says he's willing to do it now. Morgan says he doesn't trust him. Gabriel assures him he's not planning any more tricks. He says maybe he won't die, and he'll be the one to end the Collins' curse.

Daphne tells Catherine she can't believe she doesn't want her to help Bramwell. She says it doesn't look proper. She reminds Daphne that Bramwell has caused problems since he returned. Daphne says Bramwell is kind and gentle, and needs a friend. Catherine warns her of Bramwell's charm. Gabriel and Morgan return. Gabriel is drunk. He tells Daphne that the kiss of a woman on a condemned man's lips assures his soul of eternal peace. He leans in to kiss her, but Morgan grabs him and pushes him into the drawing room. Julia asks if he's aware of what's going on in the house. She asks if he knows Melanie and Quentin are dying because of him. He gets up to attack her, and Morgan throws him back into his chair. Julia says that when it gets dark, she plans to take him to the room herself. 

At sundown, Morgan tells Gabriel that it's time to go. He and Julia follow Gabriel upstairs.

They arrive at the door to the room. Gabriel says his last goodbyes to Morgan and Julia, and goes into the room. Morgan locks the door behind him.

Our thoughts:  

John: It's almost fitting that Gabriel ran away as fast as he could, just so he could have a few drinks at the bar. Sadly, he had no one to drink with, as they couldn't even afford to hire a bartender for today's episode!

 

Christine: It would have been nice to see bartender Bob Rooney make another appearance, but it seems that all extraneous costs are being cut as the show winds down. 

                                                                                                                           

John: Have we seen the birth of a romance between Bramwell and Daphne? It was pretty creepy when he 'realized' that she too was a woman. Lest anyone forget, Bramwell is not quite the romantic the Barnabas was...

 

Christine: Bramwell was looking rather pretty today as he recuperated under Maggie's afghan with a flattering shade of lipstick and eye shadow. 

John: How cruel for Flora to take the day off to avoid having to say goodbye to her son! What are the odds that we see anything happen inside the room tomorrow? Or that nothing ends up happening to Gabriel? Maybe we'll find out that the trick to survival is being drunk!

 

Christine: I think the odds are good that the room will remain a mystery to us. Let's at least hope that Gabriel took a flask with him and will live to tell about it, if nothing else. 

Dark Shadows Episode 1207/1208 2/10/71

You can stream today's episode free on TubiTV 

In the gazebo, Morgan takes out the guns and offers Bramwell his choice. He picks one. They agree to take ten paces. Bramwell offers to shake his hand, but Morgan refuses. They begin to take ten paces from one another. Bramwell hears Catherine's voice, reminding him that if he kills Morgan, she will kill herself. At ten paces, they turn. Bramwell doesn't fire his gun. Morgan shoots him.

Back at Collinwood, Catherine is in the drawing room when Daphne arrives. She asks if it's really true, and if anyone tried to stop them. She says she did, and no one would listen to her. She says they can do nothing but wait. She tells Daphne that Morgan and Brawell's hatred for one another is too great. Daphne tells Catherine she knows that she never stopped loving Bramwell, and just can't admit it. Daphne notes that the sun is up, which must mean that it's over. She says she feels sorry for Bramwell being treated as less than human by his family. They hear the front door, and see Morgan. He assumes that they expected Bramwell would be the one who came back. He says that he thought so, too. Daphne asks if Bramwell is dead. Morgan explains that he's badly wounded. He says Bramwell raised his pistol, but didn't fire. He says he'll never know why. Daphne asks where Bramwell is, and Morgan  tells her that two servants dragged him back to the old house. She says they shouldn't have moved him. Morgan says he doesn't care if Bramwell lives or dies. Daphne says that she does, and runs to the old house. Morgan asks Catherine if she wants to join her sister at Bramwell's side.

Bramwell is lying in bed as Daphne watches over him. He wakes and starts to get up. She tells him not to. She explains that she's taking care of him. Bramwell asks if Morgan is boasting of his great victory. She asks if he didn't fire his pistol because of Catherine. He says it's not true. She tells him they can each believe what they want. He asks if Catherine was happy to see Morgan alive. She says yes. He says things would have been better off with one of them dead. 

Catherine says she's sorry it all happened. Morgan says that he's not, and suggests the incident will hopefully bring Bramwell to his senses. He points out that Catherine is looking in the direction of the old house, and asks if that's where she'd like to be.

Gerard Stiles meets Kendrick Young in the Blue Whale. Kendrick offers him a drink, and asks if it's true that he has certain psychic powers. Gerard refers to them as abilities. Kendrick asks if he can locate missing persons. He says his sister worked for Flora Collins, and disappeared three weeks earlier. He says that despite what everyone says, he thinks she's still at Collinwood. Gerard asks what he wants. Kendrick asks him to help him find his sister. Gerard asks why he hasn't gone to the police. Kendrick says they were no help. Gerard says he will help him if the price is right.

Daphne is waiting when Catherine and Morgan return. She tells them that she's been waiting for them. She says Bramwell's condition is still serious. Morgan tells her that he and Catherine just got married. She offers insincere congratulations. Morgan goes to get champagne, and Daphne tells her she should have waiting until Bramwell recovered. She says the only way they could get married was with Bramwell incapacitated. She adds that Bramwell brought it on himself. Daphne tells her sister that she should tell Bramwell. Morgan returns with champagne when there's a knock at the door. It's Gerard and Kendrick to see Quentin. Mogan offers his help in Quentin's absence. Gerard says he's there to help Kendrick find his missing sister. Morgan says he doesn't know where she is, and insists that he leave. Gerard tells Kendrick they'll do as Morgan says, and they leave. 

Gerard tells Kendrick that his sister is not in Collinwood. He tells them they should search the grounds of Collinwood. 

Daphne returns to Bramwell to tell him about Catherine and Morgan getting married. 

Gerard leads Kendrick through the woods, and says they must find a tool shed.

Catherine asks Morgan what's troubling him. She asks who the men were at the door. He says they were unsavory drinking buddies of Gabriel's. 

Gerard moves a shovel over the earth. He tells Kendrick they are standing over an unorthodox grave, and tells him they must start digging.

Our thoughts:  

John: Why didn't you ask Bramwell why he didn't shoot you, Morgan? He's not dead yet, if you really cared to know...

 

Christine: He may have wondered about it, but it was clear he didn't really care why he didn't shoot. If Bramwell really wanted Morgan to drop Catherine, all he'd have to do is tell him about the afternoon they made sweet love together last week. 

                                                                                                                           

John: I have to say, the writers have let me down once more. It's pretty lazy to have a Gerard Stiles in this version of parallel time who seems like a carbon copy of the one we left behind.

 
Christine: Someone with occult powers had to show up to help Kendrick out. Or it could be that Jim Storm had a few days left on his contract to fulfill. 

John: Since it seems unlikely they would have Kendrick exhume his sister's corpse, I'm going to assume that the burial plot they discovered is in fact Trask's. Not that anyone would be able to identify his remains, which I assume will be well preserved.

 

Christine: That hadn't occurred to me, though it would be a nice surprise. I'm still expecting them to find Stella. 

 

John: Since everyone appears to have forgotten about it, it almost seems like we should have a tracker to see how long they go without discussing the lottery...

Christine: I think they're all waiting for Gabriel to get back from his time off. They must be hoping that he'll be the one to draw the slip with the X on it.