Season 3 | Episode 1

National funding for ♪ ♪ PRIEST: We now commit her body to the ground; earth to earth, ashes to ashes, dust to dust.

Good-bye, Ma.

Good-bye, Ma.

Good-bye, Ma.

Good-bye, my darling.

(thunder rumbling softly) How am I going to live without her?

You'll find a way.

♪ ♪ NEWSREEL ANNOUNCER: And here's Harry Selfridge returning from a successful shopping trip to the Emerald Isle.

Welcome back to England, Mr. Selfridge.

Just a few questions, Mr. Selfridge.

Mr. Selfridge, how was your trip to Dublin?

Brown Thomas is now a part of the Selfridge department store group.

Will the shop take the Selfridge name?

That's the idea.

And is it true you're investing in aviation now?

What?

Where did you get that information from?

It says there you're planning to buy the land for an aerodrome, Mr. Selfridge.

Pure speculation.

Although aviation is the future, I'll say that.

Now, if you'll excuse me, gentlemen, I have a wedding to attend.

How do you feel about your father expanding the Selfridge business?

I'm proud of my father and everything he does.

Never before, in the ten years this store has been open, have we closed on a weekday.

Though it is a special occasion.

Look!

Look!

Customers being turned away.

They'll come back tomorrow.

The chief's been ordering extra supplies for weeks now, Roger.

The loading bay has been packed to the gunnels.

God alone knows what we're going to find... AGNES: Can you make sure that happens right away?

Of course, Miss Towler.

Thank you, Malcolm.

Oh, don't put the flowers there.

That's where the wedding cake's going to go.

A whole day's takings squandered.

And all this is getting in the way of the spring promotion.

The peacocks have arrived!

Peacocks?

(squawking) Come on, Alfie, pick them up.

I'm not touching it.

It'll bite me hand off.

Oh, don't be so lily-livered.

Ah, bugger off.

Just do it, one of you.

CRABB: I know the last year has been terrible for Mr. Selfridge, but he's hardly been in the store.

And all these new acquisitions...

It's the chief's way of coping.

And all this... Well, he finally has something to celebrate.

Good morning, Miss Towler.

It does look rather wonderful.

(doorbell rings) Telegram, ma'am, for a Miss Towler.

Oh, yes.

Thank you.

Good-bye.

You look corking, Mrs. Edwards.

(chuckles softly) Why, thank you, Mr. Edwards.

I need some money, Kitty, for the bus.

I'm late for my shift.

FRANK: How many times have I told you?

Knock!

George Towler says you've been shooting your mouth off.

We've got all the ex-servicemen back in the loading bay.

They don't know where anything is.

They're just back from war; give them a chance.

Yes.

Button your lip, Connie.

I mean it.

You won't get anywhere if people don't like you.

Well, you seem to have done all right.

And what's that supposed to mean?

Thanks.

Your little sister's a troublemaker.

When's she moving out?

Soon.

FRASER: Welcome back, Mr. Selfridge.

Where's the bride?

The ladies are preparing.

Ah.

(chuckles) Hi, Pa.

Problems?

Rosalie's stockings have run.

ROSALIE: Violette, where are my stockings?

Pa, what do you think?

Beautiful.

(chuckles) You're back.

Did you sign?

The Selfridge family is now the proud owner of 12 department stores.

How's Rosalie?

You'll see her in good time, Harry.

You need to get ready.

Hello.

Haven't seen you in a while, Miss Mardle.

Well, I've been on a leave of absence.

I have a telegram for Miss Towler.

Please, Mr. Geoffries, can you let me in?

Go on.

Thank you.

You're late.

Yes.

Well, don't shout about it.

You should have your wages docked.

Not like you've been putting your back into it.

"Oh, get the big bird away from me."

(women laugh) You shouldn't even be here, taking soldiers' jobs.

I was here all throughout the war.

Yeah, well, you should be made to go now.

GEORGE: Stop it.

Both of you.

WOMAN: He started it.

What on earth is going on down here?

The usual story.

The women and the men can't get on.

It's making my life hell.

Vodka?

What on earth does the chief want that for?

Peacocks have arrived!

(peacock squawks) Oh, I say.

Miss Mardle.

Mr. Grove, how nice to see you.

How's your leg?

I heard you were injured in France.

Entirely healed, thank you.

I was fortunate.

Unlike so many others.

I was sorry to hear about Florian.

Thank you for your letter.

It was very kind.

I had been hoping to hear from you regarding your employment situation.

Your current leave of absence is about to end.

Yes.

Could we discuss that another time?

I'm here to see Miss Towler.

Yes, of course.

Thank you.

Miss Mardle, I thought we were meeting at the church.

This came for you, from France.

France?

Henri is on his way to London.

"Discharged from hospital."

Why's he been in hospital?

Do you like it?

I adore it.

And the person in it.

I know today's going to be hard for you.

Without Ma beside you.

(sighs) She'd have been so happy that you're getting married, and so proud of you.

This wedding is giving us all something to look forward to.

I'm nervous.

Of course you're nervous, honey.

That's normal.

This is the biggest decision of your life.

You do love him, don't you?

(chuckles): Of course.

I'm sorry I've been so caught up with business, I...

I love him, Pa. And you know why?

Why?

He reminds me of you.

I'm not sure that's a reason to marry anyone.

I think it is.

You're the best father in the world.

Shall we go downstairs?

(church bells ringing) (crowd cheering) They've done a wonderful job with the flowers, haven't they?

Your seats are just here, gentlemen.

White wisteria is delightful.

It's wonderful, isn't it?

Doris, my dear, you look charming.

It's all right.

No need to fuss, my dear.

Miss Towler, Miss Mardle, how nice to see you.

And nice to see you, too, Mrs. Grove.

This is so beautiful.

Ah, lovely.

Hello, darling!

Lovely to see you.

Thank you for coming.

MARDLE: Who's that?

Princess Marie, the groom's mother.

Russian aristocracy.

Oh, there he is-- Serge De Bolotoff, the famous aviator.

Oh, lucky Miss Rosalie.

Of course, they say he's a bit of a playboy.

Mrs. Grove does like to read the gossip columns.

(crowd cheering) She looks lovely.

GRACE: Oh, that dress.

Is it true it comes all the way from Paris?

Lady Mae's got a fashion house there.

She had it designed especially for Miss Rosalie.

Ah, doesn't she look beautiful?

(breathes deeply) Ready?

Yes.

(chuckles) A whole new beginning.

(organ playing "Bridal Chorus") Look after her.

I will, sir.

PRIEST: In the presence of God the Father, Son and Holy Spirit, we have come together to witness the marriage of Rosalie Selfridge and Serge De Bolotoff.

We pray for God's blessing on them, to share their joy and to celebrate their love.

CONDUCTOR: All aboard!

All aboard!

(bell dinging) (train whistle blows) AGNES: I can't believe you're here.

Well, I am.

I told you I'd come back.

And I told you that I'd wait for you.

Why were you in hospital?

Your letters stopped.

I was really worried.

It was nothing.

They wanted to make sure I was all right.

What do you mean?

It doesn't matter.

I don't want to think about it.

I just want to think about you now.

(chuckles) (upbeat jazz number playing) Well?

They're good.

They'll get new punters in.

People who like a bit of edge.

(song ends) How much do you charge a week?

125 pounds.

That's too steep.

Other clubs will pay us that much and more.

I'll give you a hundred pounds a week and ten percent bonus after three months if our takings go up.

Done.

VICTOR: Come through the office.

Afternoon, Miss Simmons.

Always a pleasure, Inspector.

Remind Victor from me.

First of the month tomorrow.

HARRY: And this is Mrs. Edwards, Head of Beauty and Perfume at the store.

I must come in and try out all your lovely products.

Please do, Princess.

And my old friend, Frank Edwards.

(gasps) I've read your book, Notes from the Home Front.

Everyone's talking about it.

I adored it.

Thank you.

Princess Marie is directly related to a founding father of Russia.

I was hounded out by the Bolsheviks.

You should write a book about me.

Now, that is a splendid idea.

It'll be a very big book.

(laughter) And these are two very charming girls.

Serge.

He is such a tease.

Polly and Flora Maxwell Taylor, my wife Rosalie.

We've all been gripped to meet you.

What woman is brave enough to take on a man like Serge?

(laughter) It is lovely to meet you.

Oh, Harry, Flora and Polly Maxwell Taylor, granddaughters of the viscount of Arden.

Aha.

This is Mr. Selfridge and his divine son.

Gordon, come here, darling.

Let me introduce to these beautiful... And his divine daughter, Violette.

Do you dance, Mr. Selfridge?

The debs' balls are so short of men.

Well, actually, I, uh... Gordon, why don't you get the girls some refreshments?

Ladies, follow me.

What a good looking boy he is.

You could marry him so well, Harry.

That is the idea, at some point.

I could hold parties for him.

I love parties.

Uh... Hello.

(muttering) Henri, oh, what a wonderful surprise!

Ah, welcome back.

Good to see you.

Edgerton, I'm back.

Have you got what I asked for?

Good.

Bring it to the club now, will you?

I'm sorry about Rose.

Thank you.

It's been hard for all of us.

But... with Rosalie getting married and friends like you back amongst us... Well, things can only get better.

(chuckles) It's great to have you back.

And if there's anything I can do... CRABB: Mr. Leclair.

Mr. Leclair.

Oh, Mr. Crabb.

(loud laughter) How splendid to see you.

It is very good to see you.

Ah, what a show you've put on, sir.

It really is very generous of you.

Well, family means the world to me, as I'm sure it does to you.

I've just been telling this fellow about our potential business venture.

The design of my new plane is nearly finished.

I just need to set up a production line, and then it can fly from the Selfridge Aerodrome.

Where's the aerodrome going to be?

There's a piece of land in Acton.

This isn't a discussion for now.

Where's Rosalie?

Oh, she's around, uh, somewhere.

I'll find her.

Ah.

It's unlike you to be drinking, Arthur.

A piece of land in Acton.

Commercial air travel.

(exhales) There you are.

What are you doing?

Taking a moment.

It's all a bit much.

My wedding party on top of Pa's world...

If you preferred the party at home, you should have said.

Pa wanted it here.

You have to stand up for what you want.

(loud laughter) (sighs) Don't let Serge play you like Pa played Ma.

Oh, spare me the advice, Violette.

You've never been in love with a man.

You've hardly ever been out with one.

It's not as simple as you think.

HENRI: We're going to do all this.

It might take me a little while to get the money together, but I will, I promise.

I won't let you down.

I don't care about any of this.

Are you sure?

I just want to be your wife.

I've waited long enough.

They've read the banns in the church.

We could get married any time.

Selfridge's was hit by the war, but it did better than most stores.

Selfridge himself floated shares in '16.

He doesn't own the whole store anymore?

No.

And his personal finances?

Loans, debts, credit?

That's not information I'm privy to.

Why this obsession with Selfridge?

It wasn't just you disgraced.

I've had a tough time of it.

I've lost the family estate.

I've had to get a job.

Poor Miles.

The first Edgerton to clock in.

Why don't you just draw a line under it all?

He took... what was mine.

Mae.

So, he did cover her legal fees for the divorce.

That's what people said.

He took her away from me.

I intend to pay him back.

What do you want all this stuff for anyway?

Cocktails.

Well, what's wrong with beer?

I want big money coming through the door.

I've hired a Dixieland band.

Dixieland?

It's what the party set like at the moment.

And this band can't half play a tune as well.

(laughs) Come and see them.

Is it a good idea, then, this band?

If he can afford it.

HARRY: An article came out yesterday.

Apparently I'm buying a piece of land in Acton.

The aerodrome.

It isn't true?

It's an idea that Serge has been throwing around.

Where did the story come from?

I was afraid of that.

Maybe he didn't mean it.

High spirits, enthusiasm.

I should have done some digging on him.

It's all happened very quickly.

And Rosalie was very upset about her mother.

Mm-hmm.

Have you heard anything else?

He's out and about, like we were at his age.

SERGE: Gather round, everyone!

(claps, speaks Russian) Speeches and cake.

Come on, come on, come on.

(speaks Russian) Come on, come on, come on.

Isn't this meant to be your cue?

Gather round, everyone.

(speaks Russian) When my mother introduced me to Rosalie, I thought she was the most beautiful girl I had ever seen.

(crowd giggling) And then I discovered who she was.

A Selfridge.

The store that presented Blériot's aeroplane to the world.

From the day that I was born, all I did was look at the birds in the sky.

He doesn't half go on about himself, doesn't he?

Then kites and balloons.

And finally aeroplanes.

Flying is why Serge fell in love with Rosalie.

He came to me and he said, "Mother, she is an angel."

(laughter) To Serge and Rosalie.

ALL: Serge and Rosalie.

Za zdorovie.

ALL: Za zdorovie.

(laughter) Mama!

Beautiful.

Ten percent of your month's takings?

And you give it to this policeman?

It means all the coppers turn a blind eye.

We're meant to stop serving alcohol at 9:00.

Well, can you afford this new band, then?

Don't need to pay them till the end of the week.

Well, I don't like the sound of that.

In France, we used to say to each other, if we made it back alive, we'd take every opportunity that came our way.

It sounds risky.

Oh, it's different for you.

You've got the store, your sister.

I came back to nothing.

I've got nothing to lose.

Za zdorovie!

Za zdorovie!

(laughing) Hmm.

Still smoking?

Ah, yes, you know me too well.

Thank you.

(sniffs) There is something you can do for me.

Could you spare Agnes tomorrow at the store?

We've waited four years.

We don't want to wait a minute longer.

We want to get married.

That's wonderful news.

Of course.

Congrat... (giggling) MAN: Sorry, old boy.

Quite a party, huh?

Yeah.

Quite a party.

GUESTS: Za zdorovie!

Za zdorovie!

♪ ♪ There's more stock come through for the spring promotion, Mr. Towler.

Should we get it up onto the floor?

Mr. Towler... You sort it out, Miss Ellis.

GROVE: Good to see so many customers.

Isn't it?

Hopefully, we're back on track.

Mr. Crabb and I have been going through the accounts.

The figures are up a little each month.

Hmm.

Mr. Towler.

What are you doing up here?

I need to talk to you.

Very well.

Good morning, Mr. De Bolotoff.

My wife and I are on a train to Venice this evening.

We'll need a taxi.

Very good, sir.

And the gentleman over there wants to see you.

Mr. De Bolotoff!

Sorry, but do I, uh...?

Lord Loxley.

I'm a financier.

I've spent the last four years in the States, investing in tobacco.

Every soldier needs a smoke.

Yes, but...

I'm back in England.

I read about your venture.

A passenger plane flying from an aerodrome in West London.

What an inspired young man you are.

Well, it's been harder to get money for than you'd think.

Oh, but it seems like your father-in-law...?

He should be in.

I just need to get the ready from him.

Ah.

I don't want to step on Mr. Selfridge's toes, so maybe there are other projects we can discuss.

A little more privately?

My... my club is just around the corner.

Oh, that's, uh, jolly kind of you, but I'm, um... waiting for my wife.

Honeymoon morning and all that.

Ah.

What a shame.

I might not be in town when you get back from honeymoon.

I'm sure she won't mind.

I'll...

I'll just, uh, write her a note.

So Miss Towler and Mr. Leclair are marrying this afternoon?

Yes.

A private affair.

All very spur-of-the-moment and romantic.

Then back to work here?

After a short honeymoon.

I've given them a week off.

I was wondering, Mr. Selfridge... the aviation project?

Where are we on that?

Well, a Selfridge aerodrome could be very interesting.

But is now the right moment?

The business has been expanding rapidly.

We can't stand still, Mr. Crabb.

We have to keep moving forward.

(knocking at door) Mr. Grove to see you.

And Mr. Gordon.

A floral bouquet, fresh as spring itself...

The hat for those May Days when you're boating on the river.

KITTY: Mrs. De Bolotoff.

Good morning!

I'm still finding it hard to recognize myself by that name.

By the end of your honeymoon, you'll have forgotten you were called anything else.

Can I help you with something this morning?

I'm actually looking for chinaware.

May I ask, where will you be living?

Father's rented us a mews house in Mayfair.

Oh... And Mr. De Bolotoff, he isn't shopping with you today?

It's not his thing, teacups.

Nice to see you, Mrs. Edwards.

HARRY: Did Mr. Towler give you a reason for handing in his notice?

He says he's found it hard to settle since he got back from France.

My concern is that the men and the women in the loading bay can't rub along together.

Well, not without a strong figure at the helm.

There's been trouble down there for months.

I say this with a heavy heart, Mr. Selfridge, but I do think we should let the women go.

CRABB: Cash flow's tight, Chief, and staff bills are very high.

It does make sense.

Well, if... if we have to take the women out of the loading bay, so be it.

But we find places for them in other departments.

These women are used to manual work, Chief, not dealing with customers.

Then we'll retrain them.

We'll have to pay them even more.

We'll find the money.

That's the last I will say about this.

Mr. Grove, go and tell the women right now.

Now, Mr. Grove.

Well?

What is it?

Nobody wants to let the women go, but if Mr. Grove and Mr. Crabb really think it's the right decision...

Your mother started them off, Gordon.

She even designed their uniforms.

I won't consider it.

It would be a betrayal to her memory.

You're right.

It's important we find a way to remember her.

But you're not listening to what Mr. Grove and Mr. Crabb are saying.

You're distracted, Pa. All this... expansion.

The store really needs you.

The family does, too.

Well, it's true, I have been out of London for a bit, but I'm back now.

(knocking on door) Miss Rosalie is in the Palm Court, Mr. Selfridge.

She hoped that you might join her for a coffee.

Rosalie... Is everything all right?

We were meant to be having breakfast, and Serge just left this note.

But maybe that's normal, I don't know.

I miss Ma.

I don't know what to do without her.

Don't worry, sweetheart.

Get ahold of my whole family, Miss Plunkett.

Tell them to come here for a glass of champagne to see off the newlyweds.

And send a message to Mr. De Bolotoff at his hotel.

Very good, Mr. Selfridge.

My name is Nancy Webb and I need to see Mr. Selfridge.

Is he expecting you?

No.

But it's important.

Well, he's busy.

You'll have to come back another time.

Oh, it's typical.

Men like him hide behind their secretaries.

I'm Harry Selfridge.

I don't hide behind anyone.

Come in.

What can I do for you, Miss Webb?

Please... don't buy this land.

Why not?

There's a housing shortage in London.

Our men coming back from war are living on the streets because they don't have a roof over their head.

Now, that land is the perfect spot to build subsidized cottages on.

You have your own company?

Yes.

I specialize in social welfare projects.

I have a degree in social science.

Now, this will give you some idea of what I'm hoping to use the land for.

Ah, the government's Homes for Heroes campaign.

They'll give me a grant if I can match it.

See, Lord Meadows was going to donate.

Ah, Lord Meadows.

He gives a lot of money to charity, doesn't he?

Yes, but he's thinking of pulling out because you're going to go up against him at auction.

I'm sorry, Miss Webb, but this article... it's-it's a rumor.

I've never even seen this piece of land.

But your son-in-law has.

He told Lord Meadows all about your plans for the aerodrome.

I don't have any plans.

Everyone seems to have an opinion on what they think I should or shouldn't do.

The auction is coming up soon.

It would really help me to know if you're going to bid for it or not, because if you are, I will need to find another piece of land.

(sighs) I will keep you informed.

Thank you.

I appreciate it.

My wife built cottages like this for artists in Chicago, before we were married.

She thought home was more important than anything else.

Oh, she was right.

Good afternoon.

She's nearly ready.

You're not wearing black.

Well, I had to come out of mourning at some point.

This seemed like a good moment.

I was so sorry to hear about Florian.

Everybody lost somebody.

Yes, one man comes back and another doesn't.

Why me and not him?

Oh, Henri, you mustn't feel guilty.

Goodness, you and Agnes deserve your happiness.

We got Beatrice packed and back to school.

I'll miss her.

What's all this about, anyway?

PRINCESS MARIE: ...everything in there, you know?

Thank you.

Oh, what's she doing here?

Sweetheart.

She was at the house all morning.

Grandma ended up hiding in the laundry cupboard.

There were pillowcases that needed folding.

Look at all these presents.

I'll have a martini, please.

With a twist of lemon.

(chuckles) Hair of the dog.

How are you, darling?

Have you been buying for the new house?

HARRY: The house is exactly what I wanted to speak to you about.

I don't think that now is the best time for Rosalie and Serge to set up a new home.

I think that it is important, as families, for us to get to know each other.

The De Bolotoffs and the Selfridges.

I want Rosalie and Serge to come live at Arlington Street.

Pa, you could have asked us.

ROSALIE: It'll mean you don't have to concern yourself with servants or menus, Violette; you hate all that.

But my mother was going to come and live with us.

She was?

Just while you were getting used to married life.

Surely, you weren't thinking of staying with them indefinitely?

You have somewhere else to live, don't you?

Of course.

I'll go back to Eaton Square.

I have a divine little flat there.

Mother, are you sure?

Absolutely, darling.

Don't worry about me.

And while you both are under the same roof, you can forge ahead with the aerodrome plans.

Ah, yes, we-we need to talk about the aerodrome.

I give you this ring as a sign of our marriage.

With my body, I honor you.

All that I am, I give to you.

Do you, Agnes Mary Towler, take Henri Olivier Leclair to be your husband?

I do.

To have and to hold from this day forward... To have and to hold from this day forward... ...for better, for worse... ...for better, for worse... ...for richer, for poorer... ...for richer, for poorer... ...in sickness and in health.

...in sickness and in health.

God the Father, God the Son, God the Holy Ghost, bless and preserve... That time that I came to visit you on leave.

I wanted to get married then.

I didn't want to tempt fate.

Anyway, you've got me forever now.

What is that?

Oh, it's our honeymoon destination.

(laughs) Where are we going?

Well, it's a surprise.

No!

It's a surprise.

N-No.

We can't, not here.

Why not?

There's no one about.

Get the airplane built first, then we'll consider an aerodrome.

But aren't you even going to help with the production line?

Building an aeroplane isn't cheap.

I never said I would finance it.

You just presumed.

That is not true.

You told me we'd work together.

In a general way, not on this specific project.

I have other possible investors.

Well, you should go with them.

I don't like to be rushed.

I will.

If you don't want to keep it in the family.

I'm sure Rosalie would be pleased to... Don't use my daughter as leverage.

Do you understand me?

You behave with her, or I'll give you hell.

(chuckles) (muttering): I'd like to see you try.

(upbeat jazz playing) The band!

It's catching on!

I need to talk to Victor.

He's in his office.

George, he's busy.

You're doing well out there.

I want more.

Well, you can't have it.

I haven't got it.

Then you have to be forgiving about what comes inside this club.

There's gentlemen I know who would like to run their business through here.

No.

I've said this before.

Well, it's that or it's more money!

Here!

Take it.

George.

Take it.

(panting) That's the rate for next month.

Nice doing business with you.

(sighs) What are you doing?

Well, what's it look like?

I'm getting you out of a spot.

And why are you dressed up for?

(sighs) Henri's come back.

Agnes married him this afternoon.

(sighs) Where did you get the money from, anyway?

Miss Mardle won't let me pay rent.

I saved it.

I want to come in with you.

We always said, "every opportunity."

George, listen, not here, not the club.

You said it before, it's too risky.

Well, I'm out of work, then.

What?

I've handed in my notice.

You need someone to watch your back.

I'm coming to work for you.

(sighs) I telegrammed through to reserve your best suite.

Princess Marie Wiasemsky.

Ah, yes.

It wasn't clear, Princess.

How long will you be staying?

Indefinitely.

And the bill?

Charge it to Selfridge account.

Oh, thank goodness you're back.

A fuse has blown.

I've been trying to mend it myself, but I'm really not very good at that sort of thing.

Henri, would you... Of course.

Thank you.

The fuse is just through there in the kitchen.

Thank you.

MAN (whispering): Capitaine.

Capitaine.

(women laughing) (gasps) (panting) Capitaine?

De l'eau, de l'eau... De l'eau, de l'eau.

(clattering) AGNES: Henri?

(panting) Are you all right?

Yeah, I'm fine.

(sniffles) ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ NANCY: Our men coming back from war are living on the streets because they don't have a roof over their head.

Now, this land is the perfect spot to build subsidized cottages on.

♪ ♪ THACKERAY: The Lanvins from Paris.

Gold embroidered Chantilly lace with a black silk taffeta bodice.

Do not touch.

I only want to learn the right way to handle 'em.

Madame Lanvin's creative director will be here in the morning.

I haven't time to train new staff.

The dresses will speak for themselves.

They don't need fancy tricks or Miss Towler's avant-garde distractions.

Has anyone seen the chief?

You'd think he would be here.

Where is Mr. Selfridge, anyway?

I don't know.

Miss Webb.

We need to talk.

I've been informed that Lord Meadows has pulled out of your building project.

All that work gone to waste.

Sorry if I sound bitter, I know it's not your fault.

I've been thinking long and hard since you stormed into my office.

These are houses that my late wife built for charity.

(sighs) You must miss her terribly.

I do.

But I know that Rose would approve of a project like yours.

S-Sorry, what...

So what are you saying?

The field goes to auction in less than a week.

And I'm going to bid.

Are you taking over the project?

Let's start with the field and we'll take it from there.

S...

I had a survey done.

I can have that to you and all the rest of the paperwork by tomorrow.

Good.

This is the sort of endeavor I've been looking for.

Spare of copper for an ex-soldier?

Want to buy some fags?

Good morning, sir.

Good morning, Bill.

(shouting) Leave here!

Move on.

I could get the police to move them along, Mr. Selfridge.

To where, exactly?

Let 'em be.

MAN: Charlie, get out, come on.

You all right?

Yeah, thanks, Charlie.

I need you to summon a board meeting as soon as possible.

But what's buying a field and building houses got to do with the board?

I'm gonna ask the board for an interest-free loan to set up a new company.

Another company?

Mr. Selfridge, this is not our area of expertise.

Last week there was talk of an aerodrome.

A passing rumor only.

I have my heart set on this.

Mr. Selfridge...

I have the tightest time frame to raise the money.

Get on this straightaway.

Thank you, Mr. Crabb.

Rosalie.

Mm.

Welcome home, darling.

Venice seems to have agreed with you.

Good to be back, sir.

Uh... What the heck is that?

It's called a samovar, Pa. How Russians make tea, apparently.

Oh.

Must drink a lot of tea.

It's a wedding gift from Princess Marie.

It's the ugliest thing I've ever seen.

Grandma thinks so, too.

Rosalie!

I'm sure we'll get used to it.

Tea, Gordon?

Working a samovar-- my life's ambition.

Mr. Leclair is here, as you requested.

Henri.

How was your time in Scotland?

Oh, we had a lovely time.

What can I do for you?

I hate to ask you, but could you both return to work early?

I will make it up to you.

Madame Lanvin has chosen Selfridge's to show her first London collection, and we could secure an exclusive contract.

How can I help?

It would be good if you and Agnes could be there tomorrow evening to oversee Gordon and Mr. Thackeray.

Yes, of course, Harry.

We'll be there.

Ow!

Keep it down, please.

No.

Good, I'm glad you like it.

You have to look your best tomorrow, Connie.

This Lanvin event is an opportunity for you to shine.

All I want is a chance.

I've found my thing in fashion, Kitty.

Like you did with beauty.

The sisters of Selfridge's.

If this fashion event is successful, I'm going to propose my own cosmetics promotion.

So keep trying.

I got my book deal.

(gasps) Life at Home after War.

What it's like for our soldiers now they're home.

That's fantastic news, Frank.

I was so looking forward to a bit more time, just the two of us.

I can go back, tell Harry no if you want.

Of course not.

We can't let Mr. Selfridge down.

We make a good team.

Do we really need this... George?

I need him.

But we've been managing just fine, the two of us.

Look Elsa, we have fun now and then.

But I run this club.

George starts today, and that's final.

Not now.

Madame Lanvin designed these dresses especially for Selfridge's.

She agrees to attend your event, expects massive press exposure, and this... is your response?

So traditional.

So passé.

(speaking French) (speaking French) S'il vous plaît, monsieur.

You're not seeing my vision properly.

I cannot subject Madame Lanvin to this insult.

I'm withdrawing the dresses and we will not attend this evening.

Please, Monsieur Longchamp, I've been on leave.

We will fix this.

Isn't that right, Mrs. Leclair?

AGNES: Absolutely.

I'll give you one last chance.

We chose Selfridge's because of your legendary displays.

You have until this afternoon.

Always the same with you, Thackeray.

You see the dresses as art.

Women want to see themselves in them.

How dare you swan back here and criticize me?

Our big war hero.

Let's just concentrate on fixing this.

Nothing to fix, as far as I'm concerned.

That Longchamp is just another French idiot.

He's set his heart on building houses now?

Whatever next?

I fear his heart is ruling his head these days.

Mr. Grove.

Miss Blenkinsop.

The information bureau...

Damn and blast!

...is a new service.

Customers come from all over to ask questions on any subject whatsoever.

How can I provide answers when the untrained staff don't know where to look?

I understand your difficulties, Miss Blenkinsop... We shall be a laughingstock if we continue like this.

I'm up to my neck.

Extra female staff all around the store.

Additional training required.

Unhappy heads of department.

Roger, I could really do with your support in getting through to the chief.

Oh, I'm sorry, Arthur.

My advice is put your head down, weather the storm.

HARRY: Mr. Crabb.

What's happening with the board meeting, Mr. Crabb?

Uh, this evening was the only time they could convene, unfortunately.

Fine.

What time?

I haven't booked anything.

You're hosting Madame Lanvin this evening.

Well, Mr. Thackeray is quite able to hold the fort.

Book it, Crabb.

Father, we... We have a serious problem.

At last, Mr. Selfridge.

These are the displays.

HARRY: Was he very disappointed?

I'm afraid so.

Mr. Selfridge...

I've put weeks of work into this.

It's not good enough.

Mr. Gordon gave me his full approval.

Gordon?

Mrs. Leclair was on leave.

We did our best.

And you've both let me down.

And what about you letting us down?

What's that supposed to mean?

You've shown little interest in the store's biggest ever event.

Our reputation rests on this... Not your reputation, my reputation.

And this is my department.

And I will not by told what to do by this man, drafted in at the last minute.

Don't speak to me like that.

Time things were said.

You foist unskilled staff on us.

You're not here when we need you.

Thackeray...

I'm not one of your yes men.

I don't employ yes men.

I employ men I expect to get it right.

What about you?

Thackeray, stop now.

You haven't been getting it right since Mrs. Selfridge died.

Get out.

Get out.

Get out of my store and don't ever come back.

(indistinct chatter) Mr. Thackeray has been sacked.

(all gasp) That can't be true.

I heard it with my very own ears.

The chief told him to get out and never come back.

What's going on?

Mr. Thackeray's been given the heave-ho.

Idle gossip.

Gossip?

Hmm.

Well, I'm sorry you had to witness that unpleasant encounter.

Mr. and Mrs. Leclair, can you solve this disaster?

We have very little time, but of course, we will do our best.

It will be fine.

Don't worry.

Tell me how I can help.

Leave this to the experts, Gordon.

But...

In this crisis, you certainly don't want to summon the board now?

Yes, we do.

(knocking) Sergeant, what are you doing here?

I like to know where all me men are.

Aren't you gonna ask us in, Lance Corporal?

You won't be staying long.

I've a business to run.

Well, that's why we're here.

I says to Silas, if any man wants cut price smokes to sell, it'll be Victor Colleano.

I trust you had a good journey, Lord Loxley?

I've come a very long way.

I expect to be impressed, Mr. De Bolotoff.

Please.

So, you drive a hard bargain.

I thought you'd be a pushover.

I'm not a pushover for anyone.

And seeing as the smokes probably came off the back of a Dover lorry, you're quids in anyway.

Charlie Copperstone was bad news in the regiment.

You shouldn't have let 'em in.

Stop worrying.

They'll be on their way soon enough.

CHARLIE: Look at you.

You done well for yourself.

Well, look, you can't let us go without offering us a drink.

I can.

It will carry six passengers.

Now, there's little point in building one.

Spread the costs, build five or six, and then you have an air taxi service.

I can see it's a real passion of yours.

Did you get it from your father?

No.

I don't remember him.

Well, I'm sure your father-in-law must be champing at the bit to invest.

Well, he's refused to invest in the aerodrome, and I don't think he's too interested in my plane.

Why is that?

Pushed too hard.

It can be a fault of mine.

I've always admired determination in a smart young man.

If Selfridge isn't interested in you and your ideas, I am.

Really?

Young men like you... are the future.

And then you turn this... and something is supposed to happen.

Oh, you'll figure it out, Fraser.

Thank you, ma'am.

Darling, I hate to see you apart from Serge so soon after your return.

ROSALIE: He had to be at the hangar.

I understand that.

But it's so very far away.

Your father will never get to know him better while he's there.

And you hardly get to see him, darling.

I was wondering.

Your mother's old painting studio-- it would make a wonderful office for him.

He could do his design work there.

I would like to see more of Serge.

Shall we take a look?

I'd have to approach the subject very delicately with Violette.

Of course.

Thank you.

Is she ever going to spend any time in her own apartment?

She's not in her apartment, ma'am, and, uh, a huge hotel bill for her has come in made out to Mr. Selfridge.

Keep this to ourselves for now.

How about this?

And if we move it to the fashion floor, the whole thing will have a more modern, airy feel.

But will it be enough?

All we can do with the time we've got left.

It's going to be a tough first day back.

Arthur?

It's Victoria sponge, your favorite.

I don't have the stomach for it.

(sighs) It's not your fault that Mr. Selfridge sacked Mr. Thackeray.

Am I a yes man, Mildred?

What do you mean?

Would you say I had backbone?

You're the bravest man I know.

Mr. Selfridge has always been able to count on my loyalty, but I'm torn, Mildred.

He's about to embark on a charity project, but it's risky, and I'm not sure I can endorse it to the board in all conscience.

Then you must follow your conscience, Arthur.

Yes.

People say it gets easier.

I'm not sure I believe them.

Pa thinks his brave face fools us.

I'm glad you're staying here, Rosalie.

(sighs) Wonderful, darlings.

We're in agreement then?

Agreement about what?

It was just a suggestion, Violette, that maybe, in time, Serge might use this studio for an office.

I can't believe you'd even think of such a thing.

Rosalie is running this house now, Violette.

Pa will never agree.

And I'm going to make sure he doesn't.

This is all we have left of her.

Can I help with anything, Mr. Crabb?

No, no, everything's fine.

(door closes) (elevator bell dings) (door closes) Violette.

Princess WisWas-- whatever her name is-- wants to take over Ma's studio.

For what?

An office for her precious son.

Well, he does live with us, so we have to all try to get along.

(sighs heavily) I'm going insane at home.

Gordon's here, Rosalie has the house to run, and I have nothing.

Let's talk about this later.

I have... Give me something to do, Pa, please?

Like what, sweetheart?

Get me out of that house.

Give me a job here.

I'm sorry, Violette, it's out of the question.

We have more than enough female staff as it is.

Please, Pa. Look... (sighs) Why don't you do some traveling?

Get rid of me, you mean?

No.

Go to Chicago, visit some of Ma's family.

I know how much you love it there.

And hope that I meet some rich Yank to marry.

That's not what I mean.

That's exactly what you meant.

Honey.

A Vanderbilt, an Astor maybe?

You already have a princess in the bag.

Violette.

Thanks for nothing, Pa. Where are you going?

Shopping.

All I'm good for, apparently.

You've got your month's money.

What do you want?

To give you your money's worth by tipping you the wink.

If those were nicked, keep 'em out of sight.

Our boys are out looking for stolen fags around town.

Consider me tipped.

Seeing as you bought that lot...

I know people could put you in the way of other stuff.

A one off.

Thanks, but no thanks.

You can't stay clean forever, Colleano.

Not in this business.

It's not about staying clean.

It's about staying in charge.

Same way out as you came in.

So, we position the plinths around here.

Yeah.

We'll need spotlights.

Monsieur Longchamp will be downstairs any minute.

We're nowhere near getting this right.

It's the best we can do with so little time.

Can I make a suggestion?

By all means.

(elevator bell dings) What do you think?

I love it.

But will Monsieur Longchamp?

He's a tricky customer.

How do you mean?

(elevator bell dings) Leave this to me.

Monsieur Longchamp, Violette Selfridge.

I hear you're a difficult man to please.

My father always says this is much more than a store.

We have a remit to entertain customers, too.

And what do you like to do for entertainment?

Are you flirting with me, Monsieur Longchamp?

Would that be so very terrible?

No.

As long as you like my idea for tonight.

It's not me you have to please.

Let's do this your way then.

Will your boss be pleased?

Can you type these up for me, Miss Plunkett?

I'll need them for tonight's board meeting.

Mr. Selfridge, I absolutely need to speak with you.

Later, Crabb.

I need to speak with you before the board meeting.

I'm sorry.

I just don't have the time.

I must insist.

Don't badger me, Mr. Crabb.

It's not the day for it.

Please inform Mr. Selfridge that Mr. Crabb intends to badger until he gets a result.

Thank you, Miss Plunkett.

Well done, my darling.

And if I play my cards right, he might back me.

Well, of course he's keen.

You forget how impressive you are.

Shame my father-in-law doesn't think so.

Go back to Harry.

Give him one last chance.

Tell him you have another investor.

And why would I do that?

Because you live in his house.

You're part of his family now.

You wouldn't know it.

Serge, you have to trust me on how a gentleman should conduct himself.

Fine.

We'll do it your way.

MARDLE: Oh, he's so beautiful, Doris.

He's just like you.

The only one to get my blonde hair.

Little Ernest, sweeter than a violet cream.

If anyone had told me I'd have five children by now...

I'm glad I'm not still working in the store though.

We're well out of it, Miss Mardle.

Oh?

What do you mean?

Pressure day in, day out.

People demanding things at a moment's notice, dealing with difficult customers, not to mention staff goings-on and the like.

Every single thing I just said you're missing horribly, aren't you?

(chuckles) When Florian died, I had to think about what I was going to do for the rest of my life.

I'm a company woman, Doris.

I like structure.

But I'm also a changed woman, and I can't go backwards.

We've all been changed by the war.

I'm glad you came today, Miss Mardle.

Old friends should stick together.

I think it's about time you called me Josie.

(both chuckle) Mr. De Bolotoff to see you, Mr. Selfridge.

Serge.

What can I do for you?

I'm here to tell you that I have a financier interested in my plane.

Good.

I'm happy for you.

I thought it only proper I give you a last chance to invest, seeing as we're family.

Uh, even if I wanted to, my hands are tied.

How so?

I'm about to bid for that field in West London.

For a nonprofit housing project.

I found that field.

I know, so maybe you could help me with this housing project.

I'm not interested in houses.

It is a perfect site for an aerodrome.

And as I've told you before, first you work on the plane, then you worry about the aerodrome.

I'm sure that your financier will agree.

Who is it?

Lord Loxley.

And I wouldn't bet on it.

Loxley?

You know him?

Stay away from him.

That man is dangerous.

Cut off all contact with him immediately.

I make my own decisions, thanks.

Oh, I mean it.

Serge, that is not a request.

Oh, and I mean it, too.

It's just, uh, business, Harry.

And you of all people should appreciate that.

Don't, Mr. Crabb.

For both of our sakes, don't.

So be it.

Directors are starting to arrive.

Arthur?

Are you quite all right?

You look unwell.

I'll join you in the boardroom shortly, Mr. Grove.

♪ ♪ Madame Lanvin.

Oh!

(chuckling) We're honored by your presence.

Oh, Monsieur Leclair.

Such a handsome young man when we last met à Paris.

What happened?

(Henri and Lavin chuckle) NANCY: That's the survey result and personal references for my past work.

Very thorough.

That should impress the board.

Wish me luck, Miss Webb.

I hope to see you downstairs afterwards for the fashion event.

Of course.

LOIS: I thought Princess Marie would be here.

She does enjoy a party.

She's devastated to miss this evening, but she's entertaining some Russian friends.

At her apartment?

I assume so.

Psst.

Oh.

Ah, good evening, Miss Calthorpe.

Accessories is looking very attractive under your direction.

Well, I've done my best, Miss Mardle.

But, um, I'm sure you'll find some improvements when you return.

Oh, I'm here to see Mr. Grove.

I won't be coming back to Accessories, Miss Calthorpe.

You keep up the good work.

JOURNALIST: Madame Lanvin and Mr. Leclair, together, please.

Please.

(clears throat) (shutters clicking) Madame Lanvin, are you aware your countryman survived the horrors of Verdun?

A war hero.

Uh, well, no.

Please, this evening is not about me.

It's about the wonderful Madame Lanvin and-and... No, we must applaud our war hero, Monsieur Leclair.

(applause) (muffled speaking) (popping, banging) (muffled): Mr. Leclair?

Mr. Leclair, is there a problem?

I'm-I'm sorry.

Henri, wh-why's he asking you about Verdun?

What happened?

Talk to me.

I can't.

I can't.

MAN: Ladies and gentlemen, if you could now make your way through to the fashion department.

(indistinct chatter) The land goes to auction next week, so time is short.

With a loan from Selfridge's, the government will match our investment, which means that we'll be able to sell the houses at cost.

The project will enhance Selfridge's legacy in the long run, which... increases share value.

I assume you're all with me.

So... Mr. Crabb.

I...

I have something to say.

The document I've prepared shows the scope of our expansion.

Expansion is healthy.

Yes, and so is prudence.

Gentlemen, the cost of war is still with us.

Surplus female staff are currently adding 16.4% to our payroll, all this whilst pursuing an ambitious expansion program.

We now have 12 new stores.

More in our sightlines.

Mmm.

Mr. Crabb... We have also gambled on costly innovations like the information bureau, which we are hoping will be successful, whereas our mail order service has proved to be a significant financial liability.

(chuckles) Gentlemen, if you look at this next document, you will see the impact of our expansion program In relation to our annual share projections.

♪ ♪ Violette Selfridge?

You will see that cosmetics, beauty, and fashion are our biggest growth areas.

It is my opinion that we should focus on what we do best.

♪ ♪ We are a retailer.

Construction of housing, no matter how well-intentioned, is outside our area of expertise.

And crucially, it is an endeavor that will reap no tangible profit, which will affect you gentlemen as majority shareholders.

Profit must be at the heart of our business strategy.

Another time, this project might be viable.

Now... is not that time.

I think that we all... value Mr. Crabb's opinion.

I certainly do.

But it is one man's opinion.

Let's have a show of hands so we can proceed with this venture.

I see.

Well, that concludes our business here.

Thank you and good night, gentlemen.

♪ ♪ You'll be all over the papers tomorrow, Miss Selfridge.

Every girl will want to wear what you're wearing.

(band playing jazz melody) ♪ ♪ (people conversing) ♪ ♪ Evening, Mr. Leclair.

What can we get for you?

Whiskey.

A large one, please.

(knocking on door) Firstly, let's deal with the surplus women.

We'll give them a month's wages.

Mr. Grove will be relieved.

And what of Mr. Thackeray?

He crossed the line.

I played my part in that.

No going back.

I understand.

I'll spare you from dismissing me.

My resignation, Mr. Selfridge.

I won't accept it.

But I will raise that money, one way or another.

It's my job to protect the company.

Even if that means from you.

So... ...where does that leave us?

Changed, I fear, Mr. Selfridge.

Changed.

(elevator bell dings) Bravo.

Wonderful.

Why don't we celebrate?

Yes, why not?

It's Duchesse satin with gold thread embroidery.

It's a work of art, madam.

(quietly): Looks like you're a natural.

(quietly): I love this department!

Yes.

You should've seen him, Josie.

I am so worried about him.

I doubt very much you're the only wife feeling like that.

The men who went to war aren't the same men who came back.

I'm his wife now.

Aren't we supposed to share everything?

Maybe there are some things he can't share, Agnes.

Miss Mardle.

I believe you were looking for me?

Yes, indeed, Mr. Grove.

(bell dings) Fashion?

But I came here to formalize my resignation.

Selfridge's is in need of some stability right now.

You were one of the first people the chief hired.

I'm not qualified to take over this department.

Well, even if only on a temporary basis, we need people of your caliber.

Don't make me beg.

Oh, you could have anybody.

You don't need me.

The store needs you.

I need you.

Begging is a charming quality in dogs, Mr. Grove.

I don't recommend it for you.

Did it work?

When do I start?

(popping) Please excuse my late arrival.

MADAME LANVIN: You're a busy man.

Besides, we've had your wonderful daughter, Mr. Selfridge.

How clever of you to employ her talents here.

She took part in the live modeling of the dresses with true Selfridge panache and flair.

She's always had an eye for the spotlight, our Violette.

So, have I earned something a little more permanent here?

If it was any other day, but thank you so much for helping out.

VICTOR: Where were you?

Verdun.

You know, your lot holding out probably turned the war.

(wry chuckle) You?

Mostly the Somme.

♪ ♪ It's over.

It's never over.

He's had enough.

I know a man looking for oblivion when I see one.

How did it go?

Not well, I'm afraid.

It'll be a long time before a field like that comes up again.

I know.

That's why I will find another way.

I promise.

Your projections and plans were admired.

I...

I was the stumbling block, I'm afraid.

Please... let me at least gift you this suit.

I wouldn't hear of it.

Sell your suits to your customers, Mr. Selfridge.

Miss Webb, I've probably done everything wrong that's possible to do today.

Let me do one good thing.

Please?

This one occasion.

Only.

Thank you.

You have an excellent eye.

PIERRE: You been here before?

VIOLETTE: Once.

There's Victor himself.

He used to work for my father.

Do you want some drinks?

Have a seat.

Yes, sure.

All right.

(talking quietly) (snaps fingers) We need drinks.

You have Miss Selfridge in the house.

Send someone over please.

♪ ♪ Some people, eh?

(scoffs) Anyway... LOXLEY: I do actually.

Maybe based... Ah, thank you, my dear.

Serge.

Delighted to see you again.

I feel I should tell you.

I went back to my father-in-law to give him a last chance to invest.

Oh.

Am I surplus to requirements then?

He refused me again.

In fact, we had a bit of a falling out.

He warned me to keep away from you.

Was he right?

(scoffs): The man holds a grudge.

As far as I'm concerned, it's all water under the bridge.

What I need to know is does it affect your offer to me?

Not at all.

In fact, I'm glad to see you've got a mind of your own.

Let's pick up where we left off today, shall we?

Can you gather the family in the drawing room, please, Fraser?

Certainly, Mr. Selfridge.

Don't you think you've had enough?

Elsa.

What is he doing?

Let me go.

I'll deal with this.

We asked for drinks.

Can we have some service please, Mr. Colleano?

I don't work for Selfridge's anymore.

And my guests address me as "Victor."

I'll get to you as soon as I'm ready.

Violette.

What's he talking to Victor about?

Come on, pull yourself together.

Hello, Victor.

Hello, Agnes.

Your wife's here.

Henri?

Please, let's go home.

Yeah.

Please?

Where on earth has Serge got to this evening?

My friends were looking forward to meeting him earlier.

I thought he was with you?

Oh, they can meet him another time.

Marie.

Darling.

Are you back in your apartment now?

A rather large hotel bill arrived here, charged to my son.

I think I mentioned something to Harry about it.

My apartment is being decorated.

In any case, I'm sure he would not begrudge his new family the comforts of home.

Gordon?

I have some news that I want to share with the family.

I am glad you're here for this, Marie.

What is it, Pa?

I intend to bid for a field in West London.

(laughs): For Serge's aerodrome?

HARRY: Something far more important.

A lasting tribute to your mother's memory to build houses for heroes returning from war.

Rose would approve entirely, son.

Mm.

Does Serge know about this?

He does.

And I want you all to know I intend on pursuing this venture, come what may.

(women laughing) And it just, boom... (continues indistinctly) Isn't that Selfridge's son-in-law?

Yes.

I have taken him under my wing.

Interesting piece of information.

Selfridge is thinking of investing in a charitable housing project, and he's going to bid for some land in Acton.

Nothing in that for you.

On the contrary.

I'm going to help him dig his own grave.

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Captioned by Media Access Group at WGBH access.wgbh.org