This was one of those episodes where the writers teased us. We thought Martin and Louisa were finally going to sit down together and actually talk, but, as usual, something intervened at the last moment. In this case Tricia Soames. It was another instance when I found myself shouting at the television, wanting Doc to simply tell her to go away and return during office hours. Of course, if he did that, we wouldn’t have a show.

It also was entertaining as to how these interruptions have become contagious…Al and Pauline’s special moment was interrupted with a life boat callout.

I thought this episode contained several good story lines…everything related to Phil Pratt, Pauline’s lifeboat training and her effort to make Al jealous, and the continuation of the relationship between Mark Mylow and Julie Mitchell.

Early in the episode, when we are first introduced to Miss Soames teaching her class, I was wondering if we are intended to pick up hints about her hand issue from the children’s answers and actions? We overhear one student quote a saying “A bird in the hand is worth two in the bush.” Another student quotes “Many hands make light work.” Then, we see in the classroom and many students have raised their hands. I am assuming these references are intentional by the writers.

I found quite a bit of entertaining dialogue throughout. A few that produced some chuckles:

When Martin is speaking with Joan about Phil Pratt and insists on stepping in to protect his aunt, she inquires as to what he is going to do.
Martin: “I’m going to talk to him.”
Joan: “Oh, God!” , knowing that Martin talking to anyone is not the best idea.

Then, when Martin is completing the medical form for Pauline’s lifeboat duty:
M: “What’s that? A frog?”
P: “It is a komodo dragon, found on the Indonesian Islands….”
M: “Looks like a frog to me.”

It is a good episode, but a disappointing end for the fans of M & L, as Danny again ends up with Louisa.

The episode title makes me think of Willie Nelson’s song. The Doc didn’t treat Louisa the way he should have. He could have at least called her when he couldn’t keep to the appointment.

I’m impressed by your writing. Are you a professional or just very knledeogwable?