DIRECTOR: Autumn de Wilde

PRODUCER: Tim Bevan

Eric Fellner
Graham Broadbent
Pete Czernin

EMMA

Written by

Eleanor Catton

Based on the novel by

Jane Austen
 1. 2.

Act One Miss Taylor opens the door. Emma holds out a gift: the
bouquet of hothouse flowers. It’s exquisite.

1 EXT. HARTFIELD - JUST BEFORE DAWN 1 MISS TAYLOR

Dear Emma.
Sunrise over Hartfield, a handsome country house in Sussex.
EMMA
(sincerely)
2 INT. HARTFIELD HOTHOUSE - JUST BEFORE DAWN 2 You have been a friend and
companion such as few possess. A
The Hartfield hothouse is an explosion of exotic colour: governess in office, but little
scarlet, vermillion, vivid blues and purples and pinks. short of a mother in affection. I
wish you every happiness.
EMMA WOODHOUSE, 21, an intelligent, spirited, self-satisfied
young woman, is moving through the flowers, choosing the They smile at each other. It’s a tender moment, but-
choicest blooms for a bouquet.
MR WOODHOUSE (V.O.)
An eager young manservant, BARTHOLOMEW, holds a lantern. Emma Poor Miss Taylor!
has got him out of bed and he is struggling to stay awake.
EMMA 4 INT. HARTFIELD GREAT HALL - MORNING 4
Not that one!
MR WOODHOUSE, 60s-70s, a dashing, fastidious, fretful
Her MAIDSERVANT had been about to cut the wrong flower- valetudinarian, comes into the great hall, ready to depart.

EMMA (CONT’D) MR WOODHOUSE

The next. What a pity it is that Mr Weston
ever thought of her!
The maidservant adjusts the secateurs and makes the cut.
He’s addressing these remarks to Emma, who has followed him
downstairs. Her coat is already on. Mr Woodhouse sits down
3 3
INT. HARTFIELD, MISS TAYLOR’S ROOM / UPPER CORRIDOR - MORNING and Bartholomew kneels to exchange his indoor shoes for
outdoor shoes. The Woodhouse BUTLER waits by the door.
MISS TAYLOR, late 30s, a kind, gentle, respectable woman, is
packing up her possessions to leave Hartfield. A soft knock Emma goes to a floral arrangement by the door and breaks off
comes at the door, and she puts down what she’s doing and a few buds to form a sprig for her father’s lapel.
goes to it, putting her face close. Emma is on the other side
of the door. EMMA
Papa! Mr Weston is such a good-
EMMA (O.S.) humoured, pleasant, excellent man.
(in a whisper) He thoroughly deserves a good wife.
How am I to bear it, when you are And you would not have had Miss
gone? Taylor live with us for ever, when
she might have a house of her own?
MISS TAYLOR
(whispering too) MR WOODHOUSE
I am going only half a mile, Emma. A house of her own! Where is the
advantage of a house of her own?
EMMA (O.S.) This is three times as large.
But great is the difference between
a Mrs Weston half a mile away, and His shoes are on. Bartholomew helps him into his coat, and
a Miss Taylor in the house. then brushes down his shoulders with a coat-brush.
 3. 4.

MR WOODHOUSE (CONT’D) This is the cue for the butler to open the door. They go out.
It is entirely unnecessary. Poor
Miss Taylor- and poor Isabella too.
5 EXT. HARTFIELD - CONTINUOUS - MORNING 5
Emma has to laugh at the absurdity of this. She comes to fit
the sprig into his lapel, affectionately. The Woodhouse carriage is waiting to take them to the church;
the coachman JAMES stands by the open door.
EMMA
My sister married seven years ago,
papa; you must be reconciled to it 6 INT. WOODHOUSE CARRIAGE - MORNING 6
by now.
Mr Woodhouse looks out of the window, contemplating any and
She brushes away some invisible dust that Bartholomew missed. all options for delaying the wedding.
He hovers, a little miffed to have been usurped.
EMMA
MR WOODHOUSE It shall always be a matter of
(immediately wincing) great joy to me that I made the
Oh. That was a terrible day. We match myself. Everyone said Mr
knew then it was a terrible day. We Weston would never marry again, but
know now it was a terrible day- I did not believe it. I planned the
match from the first hour of their
EMMA acquaintance, and now to be proved
(overriding him) in the right, and to have it take
You would not wish away your place, may comfort me for anything.
grandsons- young Henry Knightley,
and little John, whom you love so MR WOODHOUSE
well? Emma, you should not make matches
and foretell things. Whatever you
MR WOODHOUSE say always comes to pass. You must
(mollified) not make any more.
They are very fond of me.
EMMA
EMMA I promise you to make none for
Of course they are. myself, papa; but I must, indeed,
for other people. It is the
MR WOODHOUSE greatest amusement in the world.
(gloomy again) And after such success, you know!
But I shall always be disappointed
they did not visit us this autumn.
7 EXT. HARTFIELD GATES - CONTINUOUS - MORNING 7
Bartholomew administers a few extra brushes to Mr Woodhouse’s
coat, competitively, while Mr Woodhouse puts on his hat. Two footmen open the blue gates, and the carriage passes
through. Two maidservants, carrying armloads of flowers, part
CHARLES, another manservant, is filling Mr Woodhouse’s cane as they see the carriage passing, and curtsey.
meticulously with lavender.
Title card: EMMA
EMMA
We shall see them at Christmas,
papa. Now we must go. 8 EXT. HIGHBURY LANE - MORNING 8
Charles hands Mr Woodhouse his cane, the top of which is The vicar MR ELTON, mid-20s, a very good-looking, unctuous,
perforated like a salt shaker. He puts it to his nose and deeply mercenary man, is making his way to the church.
inhales deeply.
 5. 6.

He passes the schoolmistress MRS GODDARD, who is leading a MR COLE

crocodile of schoolgirls, identically dressed in red capes. (lifting his hat)
Among them is HARRIET SMITH, 17, a very pretty, naive, Mr Woodhouse, sir. Miss Woodhouse.
innocent girl, profoundly lacking in self-confidence despite
her good looks. They are all wide-eyed at the sight of Mr EMMA
Elton, the most eligible bachelor in town. (judging their appearance)
Mr Cole. Mrs Cole.
MRS GODDARD
Good morning, Mr Elton. The Coles step aside to allow the Woodhouses to pass them,
and Emma leads her father into their pew at the front.
MR ELTON
(raising his hat) MR WESTON, 50s, a bluff, well-meaning, slightly gossipy man,
Good morning, Mrs Goddard. is at the altar, facing front. He’s nervous and is steeling
(to the girls) himself.
Girls.
MR WOODHOUSE
They swoon, breathless. He is fully aware of the effect he is You will catch your death!
creating, and puffs himself out a little as he passes them,
causing them to swoon even more. Mrs Goddard is annoyed. He takes a blanket from beneath the pew and tucks it around
Emma’s knees.
MRS GODDARD
Come along, now. Quickly now. A few pews behind, kind-hearted, fast-talking spinster MISS
BATES, 40s, is seated with her mother, the frail MRS BATES,
The Woodhouse carriage passes them. 70s. She pipes up enthusiastically-
MISS BATES
9 INT/EXT. WOODHOUSE CARRIAGE - MORNING 9 Oh, Miss Woodhouse- is this not the
most happy, happy- the most
Emma has seen Mr Elton through the window. She sits back, fortunate- this morning I could not
very pleased with herself for having formed a new plan: get my bonnet on for trembling!
(seeing the altar cloth)
EMMA Oh my heavens, do look at the altar
One more match, papa; for poor Mr cloth- oh! I am trembling again!
Elton. You like Mr Elton, papa, and
you know a vicar must have a wife. Just then Mr Cole, who has just sat down, lets out an
almighty sneeze, frightening Mr Woodhouse-

10 EXT. HIGHBURY PARISH CHURCH - MORNING 10 MR WOODHOUSE

Oh!
The Woodhouse carriage stands outside the church. James comes
around to help Emma and Mr Woodhouse out. Theirs is the only He throws a hand across Emma, protecting her.
carriage in sight; everyone else is on foot.
Emma is annoyed, but propriety prevents her from saying
anything. Mr Woodhouse fumbles for his cane and inhales
11 INT. HIGHBURY PARISH CHURCH - CONTINUOUS - MORNING 11 deeply to steady his nerves. Miss Bates is oblivious.
A few people are in the church already, mostly seated in the MISS BATES
humbler pews at the back. They rise hastily as Emma and her Surrounded by blessings- wanting
father enter. for nothing- it is too joyful!

Emma holds her head high: she loves these tokens of respect. Emma gives Miss Bates a tight smile, ending the conversation.
They pass MR AND MRS COLE, the town’s ‘new money’- She glances back towards the door. She’s waiting for someone.
 6A. 7.

MR WOODHOUSE (CONT'D)
MR WOODHOUSE What is the matter, Emma? Why do
(peevish, tucking the you turn about?
blanket again)
(MORE) EMMA
I have a fancy that Mr Weston’s son
may surprise us.
MR WOODHOUSE
Young Frank Weston?
EMMA
(checking the door again)
He is Frank Churchill now, papa. He
is his uncle’s heir; when he came
of age, he took his uncle’s name. I
so long to meet him.
MR WOODHOUSE
(in a fearful whisper)
But how do you know that he might
surprise us?

Mr Elton appears theatrically from a side-chapel.

EMMA
It is his father’s wedding day! Mr
Weston speaks of him so highly. I
cannot think he will not come.
But just then the church bells start to ring out, and the
congregation rises on cue (all except Mrs Bates and Mr
Woodhouse, who remain seated). Emma turns- and sees Miss
Taylor processing down the aisle. She’s holding the bouquet
that Emma gave her, and she looks radiant. Mr Weston sneaks a
glance back at her. Emma cannot help but smile.
Miss Bates is weeping. But Mr Woodhouse is too upset even to
watch them approach. He’s shaking his head, muttering sadly:
MR WOODHOUSE
Poor Miss Taylor!
Emma glances over her shoulder to check the door one last
time. But it’s closing. Frank Churchill has not come.
Miss Taylor joins Mr Weston at the front.
Mr Elton bows to the altar, deeply, then takes his place in
front of it, his hands solemnly extended: his office is a
performance to him. A beat, then, very theatrically-
 8. 9.

MR ELTON MRS GODDARD

Dearly beloved friends, we gather She was born out of wedlock to
here in the sight of God to join goodness knows whom. Smith is not
together this man and this woman in her real name. She has no more idea
holy matrimony, an honourable of her true relations than I do.
estate instituted by God in the
time of man’s great innocence... Emma has overheard all of this, but she is too proud to join
in on the village gossip. The women pass out of her earshot.

12 INT. RANDALLS - AN HOUR LATER - DAY 12 Mr Elton interrupts Miss Bates to suggest-

Randalls is the Westons’ residence in Highbury. Mr and Mrs MR ELTON

Weston have laid on a wedding breakfast for their friends and Shall we have some cake, ma’am?
neighbours. Mrs Goddard has now joined them.
MISS BATES
Emma and Mrs Weston are standing together, a little apart (flattered, blushing)
from the crowd. Mrs Weston is holding a letter. Oh! Cake! Sir, you are too kind- I
am extremely partial to a piece of
MRS WESTON cake- what an invitation! Oh, such
It is a very handsome letter. bounty, wanting for nothing- I do
(beat- perceiving Emma’s not typically have much of an
disappointment) appetite, but on a joyous occasion
Mrs Churchill is in poor health. such as this, one feels almost rude
She quite depends on him. not to join in the edible
celebration-
She’s putting on a brave face, but she’s disappointed too.
She comes over to the table and picks up a plate of cake. But
EMMA Mr Woodhouse is highly distressed, and intercepts-
We shall meet him very soon.
MR WOODHOUSE
She wants to keep talking, but- Wedding-cake is sure to disagree
with you, Miss Bates. I do not
MR WESTON advise your even tasting it.
Mrs Weston, my dear!
Miss Bates hesitates. She wants the cake, but she doesn’t
He is beckoning his wife to join him. Smiling, she presses want to upset Mr Woodhouse. At last, sadly and regretfully,
Emma’s hand and moves off to join her husband. she puts the plate back.

Emma looks around at the familiar faces of Highbury. Everyone Emma watches her, feeling lonelier than ever.
is conversing and laughing in groups. She smiles, disguising
the fact that she feels, suddenly, quite lonely.
13 EXT. DONWELL ABBEY - LATE AFTERNOON 13
On the far side of the party, Miss Bates has buttonholed Mr
Elton, and is talking ceaselessly, praising him for the A man on horseback gallops down a shaded avenue to the
service and listing her blessings. He is sneaking glances at handsome DONWELL ABBEY, a grander, more Gothic house than
Emma and trying unsuccessfully to extricate himself. Hartfield. It looks preserved rather than lived-in.
Emma glances at him, thoughtfully, and then looks around at The rider is GEORGE KNIGHTLEY, 30s, a cheerful, intelligent,
all the other women. Everyone is old or middle-aged. morally conscious man. He’s sweaty from his ride.
Nearer to Emma, Mrs Goddard is gossiping to MRS COX: A GROOM is waiting. The groom takes the bridle to lead the
horse away, and Mr Knightley heads inside to wash.
 9A. 10.

14 INT. DONWELL ABBEY, MR KNIGHTLEY’S ROOM - LATER - LATE 14 15 INT. DONWELL ABBEY, BEDROOM / DOUBLE CUBE / SINGLE CUBE/ 15
AFTERNOON STATUE HALL - CONTINUOUS - LATE AFTERNOON

Mr Knightley, now bathed, is being dressed by his VALET. This Mr Knightley, now dressed in clean clothes, is walking
room looks properly inhabited: it’s cosy, with books and through the cavernous space. The furniture is all dust-
papers everywhere. sheeted and the chandeliers are bagged. Footmen are lighting
candles in the background.
His housekeeper MRS REYNOLDS intercepts him, ruefully-
MRS REYNOLDS
You know what I’m about to say, sir-
MR KNIGHTLEY
“-Why do you keep a carriage if you
never put it out?”
He smiles at her, unrepentant.
MRS REYNOLDS
It’s just such a shame to see it
standing by.
(changing tack)
A gentleman on foot- it’s unusual.

He says the word ‘unusual’ with her. Laughing, he goes out.

MR KNIGHTLEY
Good evening, Mrs Reynolds.
MRS REYNOLDS
(calling after him)
It would be a kindness to the
driver. Just every now and again.

16 EXT. DONWELL ABBEY - SUNSET 16

Mr Knightley exits on foot and sets off through the grounds,
still smiling, enjoying the exercise.

17 INT. HARTFIELD GOLD DRAWING ROOM - AN HOUR LATER - EVENING 17

Mr Woodhouse is asleep in his habitual armchair, snoring
softly. Emma is re-reading the letter from Frank Churchill.
She hears footfalls and looks up to see through the window
that Mr Knightley is approaching. Wanting to appear occupied
when he comes in, she puts down the letter, hurries through
to the music room, sits down at the piano and begins to play.
The sound of the piano startles Mr Woodhouse awake.
Mr Knightley comes in. Mr Woodhouse is pleased to see him.
 11. 12.
MR KNIGHTLEY (CONT'D)
MR WOODHOUSE (seeing Emma’s expression)
Mr Knightley! You must have had a He did not come?
shocking walk.
He sees the letter on the sofa next to her and picks it up.
MR KNIGHTLEY
Not at all, sir. It is a beautiful, MR WOODHOUSE
balmy evening. Emma bears everything very well,
but, Mr Knightley, she is really
Mr Knightley feels at home at Hartfield. He goes at once to very sorry to lose poor Miss
his habitual chair next to Mr Woodhouse and sits down. Taylor.
Emma, wanting to annoy him, plays a discordant note on the MR KNIGHTLEY
piano just as he sits down, as a rude sound effect. He shoots Poor Mr and Miss Woodhouse, if you
her a look, and she innocently busies herself with the music. please, but I cannot accept ‘poor
Miss Taylor’- on her wedding-day!
MR WOODHOUSE
But you must have found it very He turns his attention back to the letter. Emma is watching
damp and dirty. him closely.
MR KNIGHTLEY EMMA
Dirty, sir! Look at my boots. Not a He wished exceedingly to come, but
speck on them. How do you do? I his aunt and uncle could not spare
came to wish you joy. him.

MR WOODHOUSE Mr Knightley starts reading the letter, a little sceptically.

Joy?
(wincing) Mr Woodhouse gets up: it’s the time of the night when
Oh! The wedding. Terrible day. Bartholomew sets up the backgammon table, and Mr Woodhouse
needs to find the perfect spot to set it up.
MR KNIGHTLEY
(to Emma) MR KNIGHTLEY
So how did you all behave? Who Well, I dare say he might have come
cried most? if he could.
Emma has become bored with her pretend piano practice. She EMMA
leaves the music room and comes back to join them. I do not know why you should say
so.
EMMA
We all behaved charmingly. MR KNIGHTLEY
Everybody was in their best looks. If Frank Churchill had wanted to
Not a tear, and hardly a long face attend his father’s wedding, he
to be seen. would have contrived it. He chose
not to come.
MR WOODHOUSE
(to Bartholomew) EMMA
Bring that screen a little closer. It is very unfair to judge of any
Mr Knightley feels a chill. body’s conduct without an intimate
knowledge of their situation. We
Bartholomew hastens to bring the screen forward. have never met Mr Frank Churchill;
we do not know what he is able, and
MR KNIGHTLEY unable, to do.
And what of Mr Frank Churchill? Is
he every bit as handsome as his
father promised he would be?
(MORE)
 13. 14.

MR KNIGHTLEY 18A OMITTED 18A

There is one thing, Emma, which a
man can always do if he chooses,
and that is his duty. It is Frank 19 INT. HARTFIELD DINING ROOM - A LITTLE LATER - MORNING 19
Churchill’s duty to pay this
attention to his father. Mr Woodhouse is reading the paper as he eats breakfast. Emma
sits opposite. She’s bored. An empty chair between them shows
EMMA where Miss Taylor used to sit. Bartholomew waits discreetly.
He also has a duty to his aunt, who
is unwell. EMMA
There is a new parlour-boarder at
MR KNIGHTLEY Mrs Goddard’s school, papa. Miss
Mrs Churchill has been unwell for Smith.
as long as she could say so. Her
nephew is not a doctor. If he had Mr Woodhouse whips around, electric, and points to the wall.
told her, simply, and resolutely,
that he must attend his father’s MR WOODHOUSE
wedd ing, there would have been no There. Distinctly.
opposition to his going.
Bartholomew hesitates, then goes to the place where Mr
EMMA Woodhouse is pointing, and places his hands on the wall.
(laughing)
No, but there might have been some MR WOODHOUSE (CONT’D)
to his coming back again. You are Do you feel it? A chill draught.
the worst judge in the world, Mr (then, more impressively)
Knightley, of the difficulties of A chill and sickly draught.
dependence. You have always been
your own master. You do not know EMMA
what it is to have tempers to (trying again)
manage. She is a natural child. No one
knows her parentage, not even Miss
MR KNIGHTLEY Smith herself. Is that not
I shall remember that next time you mysterious?
quarrel with me.
It’s just the sort of topic that Miss Taylor would have taken
Tossing her head pettishly, s he gets up and relocates to a up. But Mr Woodhouse is still focused on Bartholomew, who
chair on the other side of the folding screen, so that he now can’t feel anything but is loyally trying his best.
can’t see her. A beat- and then she reaches one hand over the
screen and plucks Frank Churchill’s letter out of his hand. MR WOODHOUSE
Miss Taylor would have felt it.
18 INT. HARTFIELD, EMMA’S ROOM - MORNING 18
20 EXT. MRS GODDARD’S SCHOOL - DAY 20
Emma’s maidservant is helping her to dress: first layers and
layers of petticoats, then the gauzy outermost gown. Emma is speaking with Mrs Goddard on the lawn in front of the
school.
After the maidservant has gone, she goes to the fire and,
completely unself-consciously, lifts up her skirts to warm MRS GODDARD
her bare bottom by the fire which is lit in the grate. A (doubtfully)
beat. She feels alone. Miss Smith...
(MORE)
 15. 16.

MRS GODDARD (CONT'D)

does not know the circumstances of EMMA (CONT’D)
her birth, Miss Woodhouse. There can be no doubt of your being
a gentleman’s daughter. You must
EMMA support your claim to that station
(carelessly) by every thing within your power.
A fact which surely proves her
parentage is good. If her origins While she talks, she unlocks the tea caddy and then watches
were very low, there would have as the servant measures out the tea. Bartholomew adds hot
been no need for secrecy, for there water and then the servants melt away again.
would have been no shame.
HARRIET
Again Mrs Goddard hesitates- this is awfully presumptuous, Know you the Martins, Miss
and even a little cruel. But Emma has made up her mind. Woodhouse- of Abbey Mill Farm?

EMMA (CONT’D) EMMA

I will improve her. Those natural I know that they are tenant
graces must not be wasted; she farmers. They rent their farm from
wants only a little elegance, I Mr Knightley.
think, to be quite perfect. Will
you send her to Hartfield, Mrs Harriet doesn’t catch the snobbish note, and bumbles on.
Goddard? Tomorrow morning?
HARRIET
Mrs Goddard curtseys in a way that is not quite sincere. They were ever so kind to me this
summer. I stayed for two months
MRS GODDARD together. When I went away, Mrs
You are very kind, Miss Woodhouse. Martin was so very kind as to send
Mrs Goddard a beautiful goose; the
Emma, satisfied, leaves her to continue on. finest goose Mrs Goddard had ever
seen, she said. She had it dressed
on a Sunday, and asked all of us to
21 EXT/INT. HARTFIELD COURTYARD/GREAT HALL - THE NEXT MORNING 21 sup with her- and I declare, Miss
DAY Woodhouse, I had never tasted
anything so fine.
Harriet enters Hartfield alone, completely dwarfed by its
grandeur and stately beauty. She looks around her, losing She’s gabbling, trying to be impressive. Emma hands her a
confidence. teacup and begins cutting the cake.
EMMA
22 INT. HARTFIELD MINT DRAWING ROOM - A LITTLE LATER - DAY 22 The Martins are of precisely the
order of people with whom I feel I
Harriet faces Emma across the vastly opulent Hartfield can have nothing to do. A degree or
drawing room. She is positively terrified. two lower might interest me; if
they were very poor, I might hope
EMMA to be useful to them in some way.
The misfortune of your birth, But a farmer can need none of my
Harriet, ought to make you help, and is therefore as much
particularly careful as to your above my notice as he is below it.
associates.
This neat piece of rhetoric goes right over Harriet’s head:
The door opens and the butler, maidservant and Bartholomew while Emma has been talking, Harriet has realised to her
come in. The butler is carrying a trestle-table, the horror that her finger is stuck in the delicate china handle
maidservant a tea-tray, and Bartholomew an urn. Harriet is of the teacup. She manages to pop it free just in time to
instantly on edge. Emma doesn’t notice. accept a plate of cake.
 17. 18.

HARRIET EMMA
Mr Robert Martin went three miles You must sit there, Harriet, so
one day to bring me walnuts, that you may admire the view of
because he knew how fond I was of Enscombe over the fire.
them. I believe he’s very clever.
He understands every thing. Harriet hesitates: isn’t Emma usurping Mrs Weston? But Mrs
Weston smiles indulgently, so Harriet sits down where Emma
EMMA indicates, and obediently looks at the picture.
I suppose he does not read.
EMMA (CONT’D)
HARRIET Mr Frank Churchill is the artist.
Oh yes! That is- I believe he has
read a good deal- he reads the It is of a handsome country house and is signed F. CHURCHILL.
Agricultural Reports- and I know he
has read The Vicar of Wakefield. He MR ELTON
had never even heard of The Romance I have heard it described as one of
of the Forest, nor The C hildren of the finest houses in Yorkshire.
the Abbey, until I mentioned them.
MRS WESTON
Emma feels a little envious of Harriet’s patent crush- which I have heard the same, though for
is more than she has ever felt for anyone- but she hides her Mr Weston’s sake, I would that it
envy behind a mask of cool detachment, changing the subject: were closer by.
EMMA MR ELTON
After tea we will call on my dear And Mr Churchill is to inherit the
Mrs Weston. We promised we should entire estate?
be seeing one another every day.
MRS WESTON
He is very fortunate.
23 INT. RANDALLS DRAWING ROOM - DAY 23
EMMA
The room is plain but homey, showing a bachelor’s tastes, to (to Harriet)
which a few feminine touches have recently been added. There is such symmetry between us.
We both lost our mothers when we
Mrs Weston had been sitting with Mr Elton. They both rise as were very young, and he has his
the door opens and Emma and Harriet come in. Really it ought aunt to care for, as I have papa.
to be Mrs Weston, the hostess, who speaks first, but:
Mr Elton feels a pang of envy, a nd changes the subject,
EMMA turning back to the girls with a flourish-
I am not the first to visit you!
MR ELTON
MRS WESTON But how can we admire a painted
(laughing) beauty, with such loveliness before
You are no less welcome for being us in the flesh?
the second.
EMMA
EMMA (smiling at him)
Mr Elton, Miss Harriet Smith. We must have you to Hartfield, Mr
Elton.
MR ELTON
(with a flourish) MR ELTON
It is my great honour. I can conceive no greater pleasure.
 19. 20.

24 EXT. HIGHBURY LANE, NEAR HARTFIELD - LATE AFTERNOON - DAY 24 26 INT. FORD’S HABERDASHER - A LITTLE LATER - DAY 26
Emma and Harriet are walking home together. Harriet and Emma are shopping. Emma has already made her
purchase, and Harriet is infuriating her by taking a long
EMMA time to decide between two almost identical ribbons.
Mr Elton is a such a good humoured
man. So cheerful, and obliging, and HARRIET
gentle. I think very well of Mr The dark blue or the light? Miss
Elton. Woodhouse, which do you prefer?

Harriet glances at her uncertainly, wondering if Emma is EMMA

trying to tell her something in a coded way. (repressing irritation)
They are nearly identical.
HARRIET
I do so wonder, Miss Woodhouse... HARRIET
that you should not be going to be (still dithering)
married. So charming as you are. Of course, if the dark gets dirty,
it will not show... but the light-
She winces- has she overstepped? But Emma laughs.
EMMA
EMMA The dark then.
A person’s being charming, Harriet,
is not quite enough to induce them HARRIET
to marry; they must find another The light is a good deal prettier.
person charming, too. I have none
of the usual inducements of women Emma perceives Miss Bates peering through the window at them,
to marry. Fortune I do not want; and groans audibly. Harriet is instantly alarmed.
employment I do not want;
consequence I do not want. I HARRIET (CONT’D)
believe few married women are half What is the matter, Miss Woodhouse?
as much mistress of their husband’s Are you ill?
house as I am of Hartfield; and
never could I ex pect to be so truly But there’s no time to reply. Miss Bates comes in, breathless-
beloved and important, so always
first and always right in any man’s MISS BATES
eyes, as I am in my father’s. Miss Woodhouse. How do you do- and
you, Miss Smith- I saw you through
They’ve reached the Hartfield gates. They stop and Emma puts the window- Miss Woodhouse, I bring
out her hand, regally, for Harriet to take. happy news- such happy news- we
have had a letter this very morning
EMMA (CONT’D) from my niece Jane Fairfax!
You must come again tomorrow.
EMMA
HARRIET I hope that she is well.
(overcome)
Oh, Miss Woodhouse! Thank you! She turns away and goes to continue shopping. But Miss Bates
follows her around the store, not letting her escape-
She curtseys and walks off. Emma watches her go.
MISS BATES
In normal course she writes
25 EXT. HIGHBURY MARKET SQUARE - A FEW DAYS LATER - MORNING 25 Tuesday, or Wednesday, but here it
is today, so very unexpected-
Emma and Harriet are out walking through the quaint town (hearing Emma belatedly)
centre of Highbury. They pass into Ford’s, the haberdasher. (MORE)
 20A. 21.

MISS BATES (CONT'D)

Oh, Miss Woodhouse, you are so very Harriet has turned back to the ribbons.
kind to inquire. Her health- poor
Jane- she is at Weymouth with HARRIET
Colonel Campbell, and- (to herself)
(hunting in her bag for For winter perhaps the dark is best-
the letter)
Oh, where is the letter? It must MISS BATES
not be far off- such an unexpected- (finding it)
Ah!– it had got lost under the-
(passing it to Emma, who
takes it reluctantly)
-yes, Weymouth, with Colonel
Campbell, and his wife, and her
dear friend Miss Campbell, who is
recently, married: she is Mrs Dixon
now.

Emma has scanned the letter very briefly, and holds it out
for Miss Bates to take; but Miss Bates has changed the
subject, so Emma puts it down on the counter between them.

MISS BATES (CONT’D)

And oh- oh dear! Mr Dixon- the most
charming young man- rendered Jane a
great service in recent days.
They were out in a party on the
water, and Jane, by the sudden
whirling round of something or
other among the sails, would have
been dashed to the sea at once- and
actually was all but gone- but Mr
Dixon, with the greatest presence
of mind, caught hold of her habit,
and saved her life!
Harriet gasps. Miss Bates turns, thrilled to discover that
Harriet is listening, and reaches out her hand to clasp
Harriet’s. Her eyes fill with sympathetic tears.
MISS BATES (CONT’D)
To think that poor Jane might have
perished! I cannot think of it
without trembling! She an orphan! I
shall always be very very fond of
Mr Dixon now.
EMMA
I am very glad that Miss Fairfax
was not harmed.
MISS BATES
(quivering with gratitude)
You are too kind. I shall write to
Jane this very day!
(MORE)
 21A. 22.

MISS BATES (CONT'D)

How very gratified Jane will be, to 27 EXT. HIGHBURY LANE - FIVE MINUTES LATER - DAY 27
know that she has such dear,
devoted friends. Emma and Harriet are returning to Hartfield.

She goes to leave, then realises she has left the letter and EMMA
returns for it. Heaven forbid that I should ever
bore people half as much about all
MISS BATES (CONT’D) the Knightleys together, as Miss
Such devoted friends. Bates does about Jane Fairfax. One
is sick of the very name of Jane
Fairfax. Every letter from her is
read forty times over, and if she
does but knit a pair of garters,
one hears of nothing else for a
month. I wish Jane Fairfax very
well; but she ti res me to death.

But Harriet has stopped walking. Emma, surprised, stops too

and follows Harriet’s gaze. She sees, in the field opposite,
the strapping young farmer ROBERT MARTIN. He had been tilling
the ground, but seeing Harriet, he puts down his plough and
strides over to the fence to greet her, grinning broadly.

HARRIET
It is Robert Martin!
She dashes to the fence to greet him. Emma, left alone, l ooks
on with patent disapproval. After a brief and evidently good-
natured exchange, Harriet runs back to Emma, beaming-
HARRIET (CONT’D)
Only think of our happening to meet
him! Well, Miss Woodhouse, is he
like what you expected? What do you
think of him?
Robert Martin has returned to his plough; now he resumes his
work, strongly, conscious of the ladies’ presence. Emma
watches him coolly for a momen t, then resumes walking.
Harriet falls into step beside her. A beat, then-

EMMA
I had no right to expect much, and
I did not expect much; but I had no
idea that he could be so very
clownish, so totally without air. I
had imagined him, I confess, a
degree or two nearer gentility.
Harriet is crestfallen.
HARRIET
To be sure- he is not so genteel as
a real gentleman.
 23. 24.

Emma sweeps on ahead. Harriet hurries to catch up with her. Harriet is aghast. But Emma smothers a smile. She has only
heard the compliment. After a beat, very casually, but
dropping her voice to a whisper, so Mr. Knightley can’t hear:
28 INT. HARTFIELD GOLD DRAWING ROOM - EVENING 28
EMMA
Emma is showing Harriet the letter from Frank Churchill. Mr Did I tell you what Mr. Elton said
Knightley sits in his habitual armchair, reading, but without of you the other day? He called you
attention: he’s distracted by the girls. ‘loveliness itself’.

EMMA Harriet looks sharply at her, disbelieving. Emma smiles.

You see he signs ‘Mr F. C. Weston
Churchill.’ Is that not fine? EMMA (CONT’D)
(still in a whisper)
But Harriet, too, is distracted. In the room beyond, Mr It seems to me his manners are
Woodhouse is being attended to by the apothecary MR PERRY, rather softer than they used to be.
who is supplying him with new potions and tinctures to test. I rather wonder if he means to
ingratiate himself with you.
HARRIET
(to Emma, in a whisper) In the next room, Mr Woodhouse is still talking to Mr Perry:
I do hope Mr Woodhouse is not ill.
MR WOODHOUSE
EMMA Now an egg boiled very soft, Mr
Oh, papa sees Mr Perry every day. I Perry: that is a remedy!
know I disappoint him awfully- I am
so seldom indisposed. If he does
not invent an illness for me, I 29 INT. RANDALLS, SMALL HALL - THE NEXT DAY - DAY 29
hardly figure in his letters.
Mr Knightley is standing in the window, fidgeting. There is
Mr Knightley smiles at this, but it goes over Harriet’s head. something he wants to raise with Mrs Weston, who is on the
adjacent window seat, but he isn’t sure how to phrase it.
HARRIET
Truly, you are the very picture of MR KNIGHTLEY
good health, Miss Woodhouse. I do not know what your opinion may
(then, blurting out) be, Mrs Weston, of this great
Mrs. Martin thinks you the most intimacy between Emma and Harriet
handsome woman in all of Highbury! Smith, but I think it a bad thing.

Emma busies herself putting Frank’s letter away in her MRS WESTON
embroidered letter-case. (very surprised)
How differently we feel!
EMMA
You must never flatter me in Mr MR KNIGHTLEY
Knightley’s hearing, Harriet. He Miss Smith knows nothing about
thinks me vain enough already. herself, and looks upon Emma as
knowing every thing. Her ignorance
MR KNIGHTLEY is hourly flattery. How can Emma
(after a beat) imagine she has anything to learn,
I do not think you personally vain. while Harriet is presenting such a
Considering how very handsome you delightful inferiority?
are, you seem little occupied with
it. MRS WESTON
(with a glance at Harriet) But educating Harriet will be an
Your vanity lies a different way. inducement for Emma to educate
herself. They will read together.
 25. 26.

MR KNIGHTLEY 30 INT. HARTFIELD MUSIC ROOM - A FEW DAYS LATER - DAY 30

Emma has been meaning to read more
ever since she was twelve years Mr Elton is leafing through Emma’s portfolio, which contains
old. She never would submit to mostly sketches of Hartfield and portraits of her family.
anything requiring industry and None of them are finished. Emma is at Mr Elton’s shoulder.
patience. Harriet sits nearby, feeling a little like a third wheel.
MRS WESTON MR ELTON
I am sure you always thought me But these are exquisitely done,
unfit to be her governess. Miss Woodhouse. You have a charming
talent!
MR KNIGHTLEY
Yes, you are better placed here- EMMA
very fit for a wife, but not at all (carelessly)
for a governess. You were preparing I dare say there is merit in them;
yourself to be an excellent wife in the least finished, perhap s the
all the time you were at Hartfield, most. So Mr Knightley tells me. He
by submitting your own will, and finds fault in everything I do.
doing just as you were bid.
She’s talking about herself too much. She remembers Harriet.
MRS WESTON
And yet you came today on purpose EMMA (CONT’D)
to solicit my opinion, knowing my Did you ever have your likeness
husband to be out; you do not treat taken, Harriet?
me as a wife, Mr Knightley, but, I
dare say, as a governess. HARRIET
(with alarm)
He laughs, pleased to have been bested. Oh dear- no, never.
MRS WESTON (CONT’D) EMMA
I cannot allow you to be a judge in (to Mr Elton)
this matter, Mr Knightley. You are What an exquisite possession a good
so used to live alone; you do not picture of her would be!
know the value of a companion.
MR ELTON
MR KNIGHTLEY It would indeed.
(brooding)
She always declares that she will It isn’t much of a compliment, but Harriet dares to feel a
never marry, which, of course, flush of p leasure. Emma waits, and Mr Elton takes the hint-
means just nothing at all. I should
like to see Emma in love, and in MR ELTON (CONT’D)
some doubt of a return; it would do It would indeed! Let me entreat
her good. you, Miss Woodhouse- now, at once!
MRS WESTON
That I must answer as a wife. 31 INT. HARTFIELD MINT DRAWING ROOM - LATER - DAY 31
There are wishes in this house
respecting Emma’s destiny. Emma is at the easel, applying paint to a sketch; the picture
is now very well advanced. Mr Elton is at her elbow. Harriet
Mrs Weston smiles meaningfully at him, and glances at the is posing against a folding screen that has been painted with
picture of Enscombe over the fire. a pastoral scene. She is trying her best to keep still.
 27. 28.

MR ELTON MR ELTON (CONT’D)

You have given Miss Smith all that A most perfect resemblance in every
she required. She was a beautiful feature! I never saw such a
creature when she came to you, but likeness in my life!
the attractions you have added are
infinitely superior to what she MR WOODHOUSE
received from nature. It is very pretty. When it is
finished, you must have it framed.
EMMA
I am glad you think I have been MR ELTON
useful to her; but Harriet only Allow me! Trust me with this
wanted drawing out. I have done commission, Miss Woodhouse, and I
very little. will ride to London the moment I am
asked! It would be my great honour.
MR ELTON
If it were admissable to contradict MR WOODHOUSE
a lady- (dubious)
London?
EMMA
I have perhaps given her a little Mr Knightley is looking at Mr Elton with patent disdain. But
more decision of character. I have Harriet is flushed with pleasure. Emma’s eyes are sparkling.
taught her to think on points which
had not fallen in her way before. CUT TO:

MR ELTON A short while later, Harriet and Emma look on as Mr Elton

Skilful has been the hand. takes the painting, and rolls it in a leather tube.

EMMA MR ELTON
Great has been the pleasure, I am (bowing to them)
sure. I never met with a Miss Woodhouse; Miss Smith.
disposition more truly amiable.
He takes his leave, waving to them. As soon as he’s gone,
Mr Knightley and Mr Woodhouse come in from outside. Mr Elton Emma takes Harriet’s arm and leans in close.
greets them with a flourish-
EMMA
MR ELTON I cannot have a moment’s doubt
Mr Woodhouse. Your daughter’s gifts about his intentions. It is just as
are without compare. Bear witness! I planned: he is in love with you.
Mr Knightley looks at the picture, sceptically. Harriet hardly dares to believe it. She manages a smile.

MR KNIGHTLEY
You have made her too tall, Emma. 31A EXT. HARTFIELD - DAY 31A
MR ELTON Bartholomew holds the horse’s bridle for Mr Elton while he
Oh no. Certainly not too tall; not stows away the leather tube in his saddlebag. He goes to
in the least too tall. It gives one mount his horse. But his balance is a little off, and he
exactly the idea of such a height can’t quite swing himself up. Bartholomew has to come and
as Miss Smith’s. Exactly so! help him. He slithers a little, using Bartholomew’s shoulder
to lever himself up, but it takes a good few seconds until
Mr Knightley glances at him doubtfully, but Emma is looking he’s up in the saddle. He trots off.
at Harriet, who is still obediently holding her pose. Both
women are highly gratified by Mr Elton’s enthusi asm.
 28A. 29.

32 EXT. ABBEY MILL LANE - VERY EARLY MORNING 32 33 OMITTED 33

Mr Knightley, on horseback, is making for the modest
farmhouse at the end of the lane, which appears to be very 34 EXT. LANE NEAR ABBEY MILL FARM - NEARING SUNSET 34
comfortably lived-in. The cottage garden is flourishing and
well tended; pegged laundry flaps in the breeze; geese and Robert Martin and Mr Knightley are following a flock of sheep
hens peck about in the yard. down a country road.
MRS MARTIN is peeling apples on the step. Her daughters ROBERT MARTIN
ELIZABETH and CATHERINE are doing laundry together nearby. I’m really most obliged to you,
sir. I’d expected to wait until the
They see Mr Knightley approaching. Elizabeth puts down what spring.
she’s doing and goes into the house to tell her brother.
MR KNIGHTLEY
Seconds later, Robert comes out of the house, pulling on his Always buy out of season, Mr
jacket, as Mr Knightley rides up. He’s glowing with exertion. Martin, whenever you can.
MR KNIGHTLEY Robert glances at him, taking this advice to heart. Then-
The day’s wasting, Mr Martin! Come
along! ROBERT MARTIN
Mr Knightley, sir.
Robert scuttles off to the barn to saddle up his horse. Mr (beat)
Knightley doesn’t wait. He turns his horse around and trots Forgive my liberty- but- may I be
off down the road, expecting Robert will catch up. Soon so bold as to seek your advice?
Robert leads a horse out of the stable, swings himself up
into the saddle, and rides off after his landlord.
 30. 31.

35 INT. EMMA’S DRESSING ROOM AT HARTFIELD - THE NEXT DAY - DAY35 HARRIET
(holding her nose)
Emma, in her dressing room, is being fitted for a winter coat About the letter.
by the haberdasher MRS FORD. Emma is wearing a mock-up, and
Mrs Ford is busily altering the garment to fit. EMMA
You must answer it, of course.
The door opens and Harriet bursts in, carrying a letter.
HARRIET
HARRIET But what shall I say? Dear Miss
Miss Woodhouse- you will never Woodhouse, do advise me.
guess what has happened- Robert
Martin has offered me his hand! EMMA
(then, suddenly) (handing back the letter)
Hic. Oh, no, no! The words must be your
own. But you must be unequivocal.
She is so breathless with excitement that she has gi ven You must express gratitude, concern
herself the hiccups. She rushes on, fumbling with the letter- for the pain you are inflicting,
and sorrow for his disappointment.
HARRIET (CONT’D)
He writes as if he really loves me She takes off the mocked-up coat and hands it to Mrs Ford,
very much. Hic. I came as fast as I w ho curtseys and withdraws, glancing at Harriet dubiously as
could to ask you what I should do. she does so. Harriet’s hiccups seem to have subsided.
Hic.
HARRIET
Mrs Ford glances at her quickly, and then resumes work on You think I ought to refuse him.
Emma’s hem. Harriet is now comfortable enough at Hartfield
not to pay attention to the servants, and doesn’t notice. She EMMA
comes forward, holding out the letter- My dear Harriet, what do you mean?
Are you in any doubt as to that?
HARRIET (CONT’D)
Will you read it? Hic. HARRIET
I...I had no notion that he liked
EMMA me so very much. Hic.
Take a deep breath and hold it.
EMMA
Harriet obliges. Emma begins to read the letter. A long beat, I lay it down as a general rule,
and then Harriet exhales noisily to ask- Harriet, that if a woman doubts as
to whether she should accept a man
HARRIET or not, she certainly ought to
(anxiously) refuse him. But do not imagine that
Is it a good letter? Or too short? I want to influence you.
It is, in fact, a good letter. Emma is surprised. HARRIET
Hic... Perhaps... it will be
EMMA safer... Do you think I had better
A very good letter- so good, that I say ‘No’? Hic.
think one of his sisters must have
helped him. EMMA
Not for the world would I advise
HARRIET you either way. You must be the
What shall I do? Hic. best judge of your own happiness.
If you prefer Mr Martin to every
EM MA other person;
Hold your nose. (MORE)
 32. 33.

EMMA (CONT'D)
if you think him the most agreeable MR WOODHOUSE (CONT’D)
man you have ever met, why should How am I supposed to read in the
you hesitate? dark?
(beat- they’re flummoxed)
HARRIET Well, go and fetch a candle!
I have now quite determined, and
really almost made up my mind– They both set off running.
(tiny beat)
-to refuse Mr Martin. Do you think
I am right? Hic. 37 INT. HARTFIELD STAIRCASE ENTRANCE - LATER - DAY 37
EMMA Emma is descending the staircase when Mr Knightley steps in
(with great relief) through the front door. He’s in a very good mood.
Perfectly, perfectly right, dear
Harriet. While you were all in MR KNIGHTLEY
suspense I kept my feelings to I just passed Miss Smith.
myself, but now that you are
decided, I have no hesitation in EMMA
approving. I give myself joy of She has gone home with a complaint.
this. It would have grieved me to
lose you. I could not have visited MR KNIGHTLEY
Mrs Robert Martin, of Abbey-Mill Well, I am sorry to hear it; but I
Farm! have reason to believe she will
soon be feeling rather better. Mr
HARRIET Robert Martin sought my opinion
You could not have visited me! yesterday-can you guess what about?
The horror of this prospect has frightened the hiccups away. Emma knows what’s coming. She goes through to the dining
room, and Mr Knightley, still cheerful, follows.
EMMA
It would have been a severe pang to MR KNIGHTLEY (CONT’D)
lose your acquaintance, but so it You will not guess?
must have been. You would have
thrown yourself out of all good EMMA
society. I must have given you up. Mr Martin proposed to Harriet this
(beat- then, pleased) morning. He wrote, and was refused.
There. They’ve subsided.

38 INT. HARTFIELD DINING ROOM - FIVE MINUTES LATER - DAY 38

36 INT. HARTFIELD GOLD DRAWING ROOM - DAY 36
The Woodhouse family silver is out, having recently been
Mr Woodhouse is directing Bartholomew and Charles, to cleaned and polished; Emma, wanting to occupy herself, has
position the folding-screens around him to block the draught. begun examining the inventory and checking everything is
They are over-eager to please. there.
They shut the front flaps, boxing him in completely. MR KNIGHTLEY
Refused! Then she is a greater
MR WOODHOUSE simpleton than I ever believed her!
Not the- Harriet Smith refuse Robert Martin?
(protesting) I hope you are mistaken.
It’s dark in here!
EMMA
Hurriedly, they unbox him again. He’s highly disgruntled- I saw her answer; nothing could be
clearer.
 33A. 34.

MR KNIGHTLEY EMMA
You saw her answer! You wrote her If I did, I should not feel that I
answer. This is your doing, Emma. had done wrong. Mr Martin is a
You persuaded her to refuse him. respectable young man, but I cannot
admit him to be Harriet’s equal.
They are circling one another, around the table.
MR KNIGHTLEY
Not Harriet’s equal! No, indeed: he
is her superior in both sense and
situation! Emma, your infatuation
about that girl blinds you. What
are Harriet Smith’s claims, either
of birth, nature, or education , to
any connection higher than Robert
Martin? She is the natural daughter
of nobody knows whom, with probably
no settled provision at all, and
certainly no respectable relations.
Emma had begun to interrupt him, at ‘nobody knows whom’-
EMMA
There can scarcely be a doubt that
her father is a gentleman, and a
gentleman of fortune. Her allowance
is very liberal; nothing has been
grudged for her improve ment.
She leaves the room. But Mr Knightley follows her.

39 INT. HARTFIELD GOLD DRAWING ROOM - DAY 39

Mr Woodhouse is distressed: he has left the door open.
MR WOODHOUSE
The draught- he does not think of
the draught- Bartholomew! Charles!

Bartholomew is coming back with the candle. He sprints to

close the door.

40 INT. HARTFIELD MUSIC ROOM - DAY 40

Mr Knightley and Emma have not paused.
MR KNIGHTLEY
She is known only as a parlour-
boarder at a common school. She is
pretty, and she is good tempered,
and that is all.
 35. 36.

MR KNIGHTLEY (CONT'D)
EMMA but if you teach her to expect to
‘That is all’? These are not marry greatly, nobody within her
trivial recommendations, Mr reach will ever be good enough for
Knightley. Till men do fall in love her!
with well-informed minds instead of
handsome faces, a girl with such Emma’s jaw is set. Mr Knightley is still pursuing her.
loveliness as Harriet has a
certainty of being admired and MR KNIGHTLEY (CONT’D)
sought after wherever she goes. I (intensely)
am very much mistaken if your sex Your plans for Harriet are best
in general would not think such known to yourself; but as you make
qualities the highest claims a no secret of your love of match-
woman could possess. making, it is fair to suppose that
plans you have; and as a friend, I
MR KNIGHTLEY shall just hint to you that if
Upon my word , Emma, to hear you Elton is the man, I think it will
abusing the reason you have, is be all labour in vain. Elton knows
almost enough to make me think so the value of a good income as well
too. Better to be without sense as anybody. He may talk
altogether, than to misapply it as sentimentally, but he will act
you do. rationally. He knows that he is a
very handsome young man, and a
Emma is taken aback: Mr Knightley has never spoken so harshly great favourite wherever he goes,
to her before. At a loss, she turns and goes out. But he and from his general way of talking
still isn’t done. He follows her. when there are only men present, I
am convinced that he does not mean
to throw himself away.
41 INT. HARTFIELD GOLD DRAWING ROOM - DAY 41
And at last Emma has had enough. She faces him, fierce:
Mr Woodhouse sees that the door has been left open again.
EMMA
MR WOODHOUSE I am very much obliged to you for
Mr Knightley- I beg you! opening my eyes, Mr Knightley, but
know that I am done with match-
Mr Knightley bows to Mr Woodhouse tightly and closes the making for the present. I only want
door, but he’s still on Emma’s heels. to keep Harriet to myself.
She knows this sounds selfish as soon as it’s out of her
42 INT. HARTFIELD DINING ROOM - DAY 42 mouth. Mr Knightley is too disgusted and angry to speak. He
opens the door, bows stiffly to Emma, and leaves.
MR KNIGHTLEY
Men of sense, whatever you may
choose to say, do not want silly 43 INT. HARTFIELD MINT DRAWING ROOM - DAY 43
wives. Men of family would not be
very fond of connecting themselves Mr Elton has returned from London with the framed portrait.
with a girl of such obscurity– and It is wrapped in paper and set up on an easel. With a
more prudent men would be afraid of flourish, he sloughs off the paper and displays it to
the inconvenience and disgrace that Harriet, Emma and Mr Woodhouse.
they might be involved in, when the
mystery of her parentage came to be They gape at it. The frame that Mr Elton has chosen is
revealed. Let her marry Robert completely tasteless, and utterly wrong for the picture: it’s
Martin, and she is safe and ornate, gilt, too heavy. But there’s more: Mr Elton cranks a
respectable for ever; tiny handle, and a music box hidden in the frame starts to
(MORE) play. Emma can’t imagine anything worse. But-
 37. 38.

HARRIET 46 OMITTED 46
(in wonderment)
It’s so beautiful!
She’s open-mouthed with wonder. Emma has to say something
nice too.
EMMA
You certainly spared no expense.

She smiles at Harriet, who is smiling at the portrait as the

tinny tune winds down. Mr Elton is smiling at Emma.

44 EXT. HARTFIELD - A FEW DAYS BEFORE CHRISTMAS - AFTERNOON 44

A carriage turns into the Hartfield drive. We hear, but do
not see, the absolute bedlam within: children crying,
everyone speaking over everyone else-
ISABELLA (O.S.) JOHN KNIGHTLEY (O.S.)
Sit down. Henry, do not pull Oh, for pity’s- now there’s
on your collar- stop that- milk all over my trousers!
stop! John, discipline him! Look! Look what he did to my
Use your influence, please! trousers! You know that’s
Do not make that face- going to leave a stain-

45 INT. HARTFIELD UPPER CORRIDOR - CONTINUOUS - AFTERNOON 45

Mr Woodhouse had been sitting in the window, waiting. He sees
the carriage approach, and goes to tell Emma-
MR WOODHOUSE
Emma! They are here.

He hurries off, but we stay in the window, and watch down

through the glass as the carriage comes to a halt, and the
butler approaches to open the door. The chaos has been
silenced: the family is now perfectly composed.
Emma’s sister ISABELLA KNIGHTLEY, late 20s, like her father a
fellow hypochondriac, is helped out first. She is carrying a
baby in a swaddling-cloth. After her comes JOHN KNIGHTLEY,
early 30s, a lawyer, rather bad-tempered and judgmental,
sponging his trousers, and finally their children HENRY,
JOHN, and BELLA. By this time the front door has opened, and
Emma and Mr Woodhouse have come out to greet them. We hear
their exclamations only mutedly, through the glass.
 39. 39A.

47 INT. HARTFIELD GOLD DRAWING ROOM - AFTERNOON 47 Isabella starts telling her father about Mr Wingfield, her
physician, whose medical opinions Mr Woodhouse then contrasts
Mr Knightley has now joined the family party. Emma has the with the superior opinions of his Mr Perry.
baby in her arms and is walking it back and forth, rocking it
to sleep. But we cross to Mr Knightley, who takes pity on Emma and
comes over to her.
MR WOODHOUSE
(to Isabella) MR KNIGHTLEY
I shall always be very sorry that Let us be friends.
you went to the sea this autumn
instead of coming here. He reaches down and caresses the baby’s face.
ISABELLA MR KNIGHTLEY (CONT’D)
But why should you be sorry, sir? (to the baby)
It did us a great deal of good. Tell your aunt, little Emma, that
she was very wrong, and that she
Emma is trying to catch Mr Knightley’s eye, but he seems to ought to set you a better example.
be avoiding her eye.
Suddenly the baby sicks up milk, copiously. Emma
MR WOODHOUSE involuntarily jerks the baby away from her body, so that milk
No, I think Mr John Knightley is doesn’t get on her dress, alerting Isabella, who flies to
far from looking well. rescue the baby-
MR JOHN KNIGHTLEY ISABELLA
South End was most strenuously What is the matter? Is there fever?
recommended by our physician, sir. Oh! Where is the nurse- give her to
me-
ISABELLA
Sea air and sea bathing. MR WOODHOUSE
(panicked too)
MR WOODHOUSE Is he feverish? Isabella!
(to Mr Knightley)
The sea is very rarely of use to Emma and Mr Knightley are laughing. Emma feels heartened by
anybody. I am sure it almost killed the restored connection between them, and belatedly answers
me once. his scolding remark to the baby:
The inane conversation is too much for Emma, who bursts out- EMMA
As far as good intentions went, we
EMMA were both in the right. I must say,
Come, I must beg you not to talk of I have not yet been proved wrong.
the sea. It makes me envious and
miserable- I who have never seen Isabella and Mr Woodhouse are still in a flap.
it! South End is prohibited if you
please.
She glances at Mr Knightley. But he doesn’t smile.
MR WOODHOUSE
In London it is always a sickly
season. Nobody is healthy in
London. Nobody can be.
 40. 41.

ISABELLA The schoolgirls watch star struck as Emma glides up the

(returning to him) stairs, accompanied by Mrs Goddard.
Oh, I do not know, I do not know, I
do not know! Where is the nurse?
50 INT. MRS GODDARD’S SCHOOL, HARRIET’S ROOM - DAY 50
MR WOODHOUSE
(to Bartholomew) When Emma comes in, Harriet leaps up, mortified that Emma has
Send for Perry. seen where she lives. But she’s too weak, and almost faints.
MR JOHN KNIGHTLEY EMMA
Do not send for Perry. Harriet!
ISABELLA HARRIET
(chastising) Miss Woodhouse!
My love!
(to Bartholomew) EMMA
Send for Perry! You are so disheveled!
Mr Knightley turns to go. But Emma wants to detain him. HARRIET
I am always ill at Christmas.
EMMA
Mr Knightley. EMMA
(beat- he turns back) Get back in bed at once.
Was Mr Martin very disappointed?
Harriet falls back in bed. Emma sits beside her.
Another beat. Then, very grave-
EMMA (CONT’D)
MR KNIGHTLEY You will miss the party at
A man cannot be more so. Randalls. Mr Elton will be there.
And Frank Churchill is expected at
He looks hard at her, and then leaves her to her conscience. last.
End of Act One HARRIET
(weakly)
Act Two And Mr. Elton’s sermon.
She pulls a pocketbook from under her pillow.
48 EXT. MRS GODDARD’S SCHOOL - DAY 48
HARRIET (CONT’D)
Emma, opulently dressed in a fur-trimmed winter cape, sweeps The sermon on Christmas Day. I
up the walk to Mrs Goddard’s school. The schoolgirls see her transcribe them every Sunday.
and race ahead.
EMMA
(taking the pocketbook)
49 INT. MRS GODDARD’S SCHOOL STAIRWELL - DAY 49 I will transcribe it for you.
Emma has entered the hallway, and has been met by Mrs HARRIET
Goddard. You are so good to me, Miss
Woodhouse. I do not deserve it.
EMMA
I have come to visit Miss Smith.
MRS GODDARD
We were not expecting you.
 41A. 42.

51 EXT. RANDALLS - CHRISTMAS EVE - EVENING 51 53 INT. RANDALLS DRAWING ROOM - EVENING 53
Three carriages turn into the Randalls driveway. Mr Weston, A noisy scene of reunions, everyone talking at once:
beaming, comes out of the house to greet them.
ISABELLA
MR WESTON (to Mrs Weston)
Welcome, welcome, welcome! “Mrs Weston” is very well for every
body else, but to me, you shall
always be my dear Miss Taylor.
52 OMITTED 52
MRS WESTON
(to Isabella, smiling)
And you, my dear Miss Woodhouse.
How are the children?
JOHN KNIGHTLEY
(acidly, answering for
Isabella)
Multiplying.
ISABELLA
(to Mrs Weston)
They are not at all well, I am
sorry to say. Really we should
never have travelled at such a time
of year- Mr Wingfield expressly
said-

Meanwhile, Mr Knightley is talking to Mr Woodhouse:

MR KNIGHTLEY
How is your temperature, sir? Shall
I ask to bank the fire?
But Mr Woodhouse has been distracted by the conversation
between Isabella and Mrs Weston. He addresses Isabella:
MR WOODHOUSE
We wanted you to visit in the
autumn, Isabella.
(to Mrs Weston)
They went to South End.
Isabella and Mrs Weston peel off with Mr Woodhouse. Mr Weston
comes to greet Emma.
MR WESTON
How is poor Miss Smith?

EMMA
No better, I’m afraid.
 42A. 43.

She’s addressing Mr Elton, who had been the first to take off MR JOHN KNIGHTLEY
his coat, and is poking about, examining the trinkets on the I cannot wish to be snowed up a
mantelpiece, and patently passing judgement on the room. week in Highbury.
MR WESTON MR ELTON
Such a sad loss to our party today. (misunderstanding him)
(beat) Of course, we are but a small
Miss Smith has sent her apologies. party. You are perhaps used to the
large parties of London-
MR ELTON
She will be missed every moment. MR JOHN KNIGHTLEY
I know nothing of the large parties
But in the next moment, he forgets her altogether: a servant of London, sir; I never dine with
appears with a tray of glasses of wine. He takes a glass. anybody.
Meanwhile, Mr John Knightley is complaining to Mr Knightley. Mr Elton is silenced. Mr Knightley is trying not to smile. He
looks over and sees Mr Weston giving Emma a letter, evidently
MR JOHN KNIGHTLEY from Frank.
Going in dismal weather to return
probably in worse– four horses and
four servants taken out for nothing 54 INT. RANDALLS DINING ROOM - LATER - EVENING 54
but to convey five idle, shivering
creatures into colder rooms and The others are talking in small groups in the drawing room.
worse company than they might have Emma is sitting alone in the dining room, which has already
had at home! been set for dinner. She is re-reading the letter from Frank
Churchill. Mr Knightley comes near.
Mr Elton’s lack of concern for Harriet bothers Emma, but
before she can press him, Mr Weston has taken her arm: MR KNIGHTLEY
Another fine flourishing letter,
MR WESTON full of professions and falsehoods?
Frank has been detained at
Enscombe, I am sorry to say. I had EMMA
a letter from him just this morning- Your feelings are singular. His
letters seem to satisfy every body
Mr Elton is left with the Knightley brothers. else.
MR ELTON MR KNIGHTLEY
I dare say we shall have some snow. I suspect they do not satisfy Mrs
(beat) Weston.
I was once snowed up at a friend’s
house for a week! Nothing could be This is quite true, and Emma does not reply. After a beat:
pleasanter.
MR KNIGHTLEY (CONT’D)
Were she a person of consequence
herself, he would have come by now,
I dare say.
EMMA
You seem determined to think ill of
him.

MR KNIGHTLEY
I should be as ready to acknowledge
his merits as any other man;
(MORE)
 44. 45.

MR KNIGHTLEY (CONT'D) MR WESTON (CONT'D)

but I hear of none, except that he She has decreed that if Frank does
is well grown and good-looking. not marry a lady of some fortune,
he will be entirely cut out from
EMMA her will.
(teasing)
Well, if he has nothing else to MRS WESTON
recommend him, he will be a There is jealousy. She is jealous
treasure at Highbury. We do not even of his regard for his father.
often look upon fine young men; we
cannot ask for all the virtues into Mr Elton is trying to cut in.
the bargain.
MR ELTON
MR KNIGHTLEY Jealousy-
You will excuse my being so much
overpowered. But Emma is focused on the Westons.
EMMA EMMA
We are both prejudiced; you But she is so very fond of her
against, I for him; and we will nephew. He is her particular
have no chance of agreein g until he favourite.
is really here.
MRS WESTON
MR KNIGHTLEY Dear Emma, do not attempt, with
Prejudiced! I am not prejudiced. your good nature, to understand a
bad one; you must let it go its own
EMMA way.
But I am, very much, and without
being at all ashamed of it. My love MR WESTON
for Mr and Mrs Weston gives me a Mrs Churchill rules at Enscombe.
decided prejudice in his favour. Everything gives way to her.

She turns back to the letter. Mr Knightley watches her for a MR ELTON
beat, his expression clouded, before bowing and moving away. (raising his voice)
I have heard it described as one of
Mr Elton sees Emma alone, and sees an opportunity to go and the finest houses in Yorkshire.
sit with he r. But just as he’s making his move, the maid
steps between them and strikes a gong: dinner is ready. They all look at him. Embarrassed to have repeated himself,
he fumbles for another topic of conversation-
55 INT. RANDALLS DINING ROOM - A LITTLE LATER - EVENING 55 MR ELTON (CONT’D)
What seasonable weather we are
Mr Weston is seated at the head of the table; Mr Woodhouse is having. I dare say we shall have
at the foot. Mr Elton is next to Emma, and trying in vain to snow tonight!
start a conversation with her, but she is paying all her
attention to Mr and Mrs Weston, who are talking about Frank: At word ‘snow’ everyone stops and looks at Mr Woodhouse. He
stands up.
MR WESTON
Mrs Churchill is an odd woman. She MR WOODHOUSE
was nobody when Mr Churchill Snow? Tonight?
married her, barely the daughter of
a gentleman; but ever since being He looks at the window: yes, it’s snowing.
turned into a C hurchill she has out-
Churchill’d them all in high and Suddenly everyone is talking at once.
mighty claims.
(MORE)
 46. 46A.

ISABELLA MR KNIGHTLEY MR KNIGHTLEY

But when did it commence? We I will speak to James It has hardly begun. Barely an
must call for the carriage- inch. But it is falling fast. We
must go at once.
He runs out. Isabella has gone to the window. Mr Woodhouse
has too. Mrs Weston gets up to instruct Hannah to get their coats. Mr
Knightley follows her.
MR WESTON MRS WESTON
(trying to make them (to Mr Woodhouse) MR WESTON
stay) You will be quite safe, sir. (vainly)
But accommodation can be James is an excellent driver Mrs Weston- the party!
found- there is room for in all seasons- he knows the
everybody- road so well- MR WOODHOUSE
Where is the carriage? Where is
MR WOODHOUSE ISABELLA James? I must speak with James.
(to Isabella) Oh, papa! I know. We shall
It was snowing when your get you home- Isabella is bundling Mr Woodhouse out the door. John
mother died. Knightley can’t resist:
MR WOODHOUSE JOHN KNIGHTLEY
(to Emma, despairing) And of course we have more than one
What is to be done, Emma? What is carriage; so if one is blown over
to be done? in the wind-

EMMA ISABELLA
(coming to him) (appalled)
Mrs Weston is right, papa. You will Husband, please!
be quite safe. The horses are in
excellent health, and no one drives They go out. Only Mr Weston, Mr Elton, and Emma remain. Mr
as James does- you are surrounded Elton is mortified for having caused such chaos so quickly.
by friends-
MR WESTON
MR WESTON (to Emma)
(trying again) I think we shall be very glad Frank
But there is room for all of you! did not come at Christmas. The
For all of us! The house is warm- spring will be a better time of
we have good wine- and hot food- year, better weather... We shall be
very glad of the delay.
ISABELLA
My children! My children are at He’s trying to say sorry. She smiles at him, kindly.
home- I cannot leave my children-

JOHN KNIGHTLEY 56 EXT. RANDALLS - NIGHT 56

(snidely, to Mr Woodhouse)
I admire your resolution, sir, in It’s now snowing very hard. Three carriages are waiting, the
venturing out in such weather. drivers wrapped up in hats and scarves, stamping their feet
Anyone could have seen that snow to keep warm. The horses breathe plumes of steam.
was coming on.
The door opens and Isabella and Mr Woodhouse exit-
ISABELLA
(snapping) MR WOODHOUSE
Do not vex my father, sir! You will catch your death. Your
husband is not strong.
Mr Knightley comes back in, his shoulders dusted with snow.
 46B. 47.

ISABELLA He goes to his carriage, which is first, and opens the door
Look to your vinaigrette, papa. Mr for Isabella and Mr Woodhouse. She bundles Mr Woodhouse in,
Knightley! You must move your and Mr Knightley signals to the coachman to drive off.
carriage- my father is unwell-
John Knightley is now exiting. Mr Knightley hails him.
MR KNIGHTLEY
Take it. It is first, and will be MR KNIGHTLEY (CONT’D)
fastest. Come. I’ll ride with you then.
And he and Mr Knightley climb into the second carriage,
hurrying to escape the cold. The door slams shut; the second
carriage m oves off, and Emma, who is just now exiting the
house, is appalled to see that she is now obliged to travel
alone in a carriage with Mr Elton.
EMMA
Oh!
She looks in despair at the departing carriages. Mr Elton is
by the open door of the third carriage, offering his hand-
MR ELTON
Miss Woodhouse?

57 INT. WOODHOUSE CARRIAGE - NIGHT 57

Emma is resolutely quiet, looking out the window and trying
to pretend Mr Elton doesn’t exist. Mr Elton, sitting
opposite, is staring at her amorously. A beat, then he leaps
across the carriage to sit next to her, and seizes her hand.
She wrenches it away at once, horrified.

EMMA
Mr Elton!
MR ELTON
I must avail myself of this
precious opportunity to declare
sentiments which must be already
well kno wn-
EMMA
Mr Elton, please! You have drunk
too much wine.
MR ELTON
My ardent attachment-
EMMA
Mr Elton!

She detaches herself and goes to sit where he was sitting.

 48. 49.

MR ELTON (CONT'D)
EMMA (CONT’D) and no doubt, there are men who
You forget yourself. might not object to–
(beat)
MR ELTON Everybody has their level!
I am ready to die if you refuse me. (petulantly now)
Madam, my visits to Hartfield have
EMMA been for yourself only; and the
You take me for my friend. Any encouragement I received—
message to Miss Smith I shall be
happy to deliver. EMMA
Encouragement! I give you
MR ELTON encouragement! Sir, you have been
Miss Smith! Message to Miss Smith! entirely mistaken. I have no
thoughts of matrimony at present.
EMMA
Command yourself to say no more, A beat. Mr Elton looks like he’s about to explode. Suddenly:
and I will endeavour to forget it.
MR ELTON
MR ELTON Stop the carriage. Driver- stop!
I never thought of Miss Smith in
the whole course of my existence- The carriage stops. He wrenches open the door and gets out.
never paid her any attentions, but
as your friend: never cared whether EMMA
she were dead or alive, but as your Mr Elton-
friend. Oh! Miss Woodhouse! Who can
think of Miss Smith, when Miss The door slams. He’s gone. A beat, Emma still processing.
Woodhouse is near! Everything I
have said or done, for many weeks,
has been with the sole view of 58 INT. MRS GODDARD’S SCHOOL PARLOUR - CHRISTMAS DAY - DAY 58
making my adoration to yourself.
Harriet, still looking very ill, is crowded around a small
EMMA table with a group of girls. They have formed a pile of flour
Oh, good heaven! on a large plate, at the top of which they have placed a
bullet, and the girls are passing a knife around, cutting
Now she doesn’t know whether to laugh or cry. A beat, then- away slices of the flour and trying not to disturb the
bullet. They’re all giggling and breathless.
MR ELTON
Charming Miss Woodhouse. Allow me Finally it’s Harriet’s turn. She makes the cut- and the
to interpret this interest ing bullet drops into the flour. All the girls start screaming
silence. It confesses that you have with pleasure. Harriet puts down the knife and puts her face
long understood me. into the pile of flour to retrieve the bullet with her mouth.
EMMA But when she comes up, the bullet in her teeth, flour all
No, sir, it confesses no such over her face, the girls aren’t laughing. They are looking,
thing! Nothing could be farther open-mouthed with horror, over Harriet’s shoulder. Blinking,
from my wishes. Your pursuit of Harriet turns to see what has transfixed them- and sees Emma
Harriet gave me great pleasure, and in the doorway, elegantly dressed, but looking ashen-faced.
I have been very earnestly wishing
you success.
59 INT. MRS GODDARD’S SCHOOL, HARRIET’S ROOM - DAY 59
MR ELTON
(irritated) There’s still a dusty halo of flour around Harriet’s face.
Miss Smith is a very good sort of
girl;
(MORE)
 50. 51.

HARRIET EMMA
How kind of you to visit me on (firmly)
Christmas Day, Miss Woodhouse. I Harriet.
have been longing to hear about the
party at Randalls Cottage. And did Harriet stops and dissolves into tears.
you hear that Mr Elton has gone
away? He left town quite HARRIET
unexpectedly- nobody knows why. I cannot see it without thinking of
him.
Emma looks at the picture of Harriet in its ridiculous frame.
EMMA
EMMA Burn the frame if you like, but you
Presumptuous, conceited man. must keep the likeness.
HARRIET An uncomfortable silence. Then-
Miss Woodhouse!
EMMA (CONT’D)
EMMA Then I will take it.
How could I have been so deceived? (beat)
I will take it.
A beat, Harriet reading her. Then, realising:
HARRIET 60 EXT. HARTFIELD - A FEW DAYS LATER - DAY 60
He never loved me. He loved you.
Isabella, John Knightley and the children have said their
Harriet has started to cry. Her tears streak through the goodbyes to Emma and Mr Woodhouse, and are now piling into
flour. the carriage to return to London. Isabella is fussing over
the children as usual, as she climbs aboard to join them.
EMMA
(hotly) ISABELLA
Love! He sought to aggrandize and Be still and eat this. Henry, sit
enrich himself! He had the next to your sister. Why are you so
arrogance to raise his eyes to me, pale? And where is the baby? Bella,
a Woodhouse, and so convinced stop! Henry!
himself in love. He is a vicar!
(noticing Harriet’s tears John Knightley is the last to climb aboard. Before he leaves,
for the first time) he looks straight at Emma, with loathing. A beat, then-
Harriet. You might never have
thought of him but for me. I JOHN KNIGHTLEY
assured you of his attachment- I How I hate the childless.
contrived his visits to Hartfield-
He climbs into the carriage and the coachman shuts the door.
HARRIET
Dear Miss Woodhouse. I do not blame EMMA
you. I could never have deserved Goodbye, Isabella. Goodbye, little
him, and none but so partial and ones. Goodbye!
kind a friend as you could have
even thought it possible. The carriage begins to move. Emma returns to her father, who
is by the door, and to her surprise, sees he is crying.
Emma doesn’t know what to say. Harriet looks at the picture.
A beat, then she runs across the room towards the it, EMMA (CONT’D)
intending to take it and throw it into the fire. Papa!
 51A. 52.

MR WOODHOUSE MR WOODHOUSE (CONT’D)

(thickly) You must never leave me, Emma.
I wish she would not leave.
EMMA
He fishes for a handkerchief and waves it as the carriage Oh, papa. You know I never will.
goes down the drive. Emma takes his arm and hugs him to her.
Emma puts her head on his shoulder, and they watch as the
carriage turns into the lane and disappears from sight.

61 EXT. HIGHBURY LANE - A FEW WEEKS LATER - DAY 61

Emma and Harriet are walking to the village beside the river.
Harriet is going on about Mr Elton, to Emma’s annoyance. She
has her book of sermons out.
HARRIET
He cannot stay away forever. The
curate cannot give the sermon
forever. No one preaches as Mr
Elton does. Hear this extract, Miss
Woodhouse- hear this-
EMMA
(rounding on her)
Enough about Mr Elton!

Impulsively, Harriet throws the book into the water.

Emma is aghast. Harriet immediately regrets her choice. A
beat. They stare at each other, horrified.
MISS BATES (O.S.)
Miss Woodhouse! Miss Smith!
Miss Bates is running towards them, waving a handkerchief
excitedly. Emma is almost relieved to see her.

MISS BATES (CONT’D)

My niece- Jane Fairfax- Miss
Woodhouse- Jane Fairfax- she has-
Jane has surprised us! She is here!

62 INT. MRS BATES’ ROOMS - TEN MINUTES LATER - DAY 62

The Bates’ first-floor rooms are very humble: this is a
household only just scraping by.
Mrs Bates is by the fire. Opposite sits JANE FAIRFAX, early
20s, a very composed, reserved young woman, beautiful, but
very pale and quite without animation. Emma and Harriet are
now seated, with cups of tea. Miss Bates is prattling away:
 52A. 53.

MISS BATES (CONT'D)

MISS BATES she has never been well since, and
She caught a bad cold, poor thing, her kind friends the Campbells
so long ago as the 7th of November; thought she had better come home,
(MORE) and try an air that always agrees
with her; they have no doubt that
three or four months at Highbury
will entirely cure her.

In her excitement, Miss Bates is rattling her teacup against

the saucer as she speaks. The sound is maddening to Emma, but
it doesn’t seem to be affecting Jane at all: her composure is
absolute.
Harriet is sitting forlornly apart, a little tearful, still
mourning the loss of her sermons.
JANE FAIRFAX
(to Emma, blandly)
I hope that your father is well?
EMMA
Very well, I thank you.
MISS BATES
Jane has been ill since the 7th of
November. A long time, is it not,
for a cold to hang upon her? My
mother and I have been so
distressed. But she is here now.
She is here at last. Nobody could
nurse as we should do. We shall
feed her baked apples, extremely
wholesome, and apple dumplings!
JANE FAIRFAX
I am very grateful to you, aunt,
for your concern.
Her bland composure infuriates Emma.
MISS BATES
She is very sorry to be parted from
her dear friends the Campbells, and
Mrs Dixon, and Mr Dixon, who is a
most amiable young man, and did her
so great a service at Weymouth in
October. I shudder to envision what
might have- if not for Mr Dixon-
and the boat, and the water- such a
charming man. Is not this
pleasant!How glad we are that Jane
is here! She plans to stay three
months.
 53A. 54.

MISS BATES (CONT'D)

EMMA Miss Woodhouse has invited us to
We must have you all to Hartfield. Hartfield!
(to Harriet, happily)
MISS BATES My mother’s deafness is very
Oh! Mother! Do you hear! trifling you see. By only raising
(shouting) my voice and saying a thing two or
(MORE) three times over, she is sure to
hear. But it is very remarkable
that she should always hear Jane
better than she does me.

63 INT. HARTFIELD GREAT HALL - A FEW DAYS LATER - AFTERNOON 63

Emma is preparing lavish floral arrangements to place
throughout the house for the Bates’ visit. She’s possibly
overdoing it a little. She places them, gauging their effect.

64 INT. HARTFIELD DINING ROOM - NIGHT 64

Emma, Mr Woodhouse, Mrs Bates, Miss Bates, Harriet, Mrs
Goddard, Jane Fairfax, Mr and Mrs Weston and Mr Knightley are
at dinner, waited on by the male servants of Hartfield.
Mr Woodhouse, at the head of the table, is between Mrs
Goddard and Mrs Bates. He is policing what they eat-
MR WOODHOUSE
I do not advise the custard.
Perhaps a little bit of tart. A
very little bit. And what do you
say to a half glass of wine? A
small half glass? In a tumbler of
water?
MISS BATES
(to her mother, shouting)
MOTHER! YOU MUST SAMPLE THE TART!
Everyone jumps a mile, Mrs Bates most of all.
Everyone resumes their conversations: Mr Woodhouse with Mrs
Bates; Mr Knightley, with Mr and Mrs Weston in the middle of
the table, where Mr Weston is, as ever, apologising for Frank-
MR WESTON
We shall be seeing Frank any day
now, I have no doubt of it-
Emma is at the foot of the table between Harriet and Jane
Fairfax. She turns to Jane, but before she gets a word in,
 54A. 55.

Miss Bates launches in, having caught the subject of Mr HARRIET

Weston’s conversation, and picked up on it- (to Emma, in a whisper)
That was the month of his father’s
MISS BATES wedding!
Now, Mr Frank Churchill is a man
much talked about in Highbury, is She glances at Mr and Mrs Weston. But they are deep in
he not, Miss Woodhouse! We are all conversation with Mr Knightley and don’t look up at Frank’s
so very eager to meet him. He was name.
at Weymouth when Jane was there.
EMMA
Jane startles imperceptibly, and tries to downplay it: (still to Jane)
But you must describe him! Is he
JANE FAIRFAX handsome? Is he agreeable?
We are very little acquainted.
JANE FAIRFAX
I believe... he is generally
thought so.
(changing the subject)
How well-prepared these ices are. I
must ask your cook for the method.

Miss Bates leans forward-

MISS BATES
My dear Miss Woodhouse- such a
lavish meal- you are too bountiful.
We are so honoured by the kind
attentions of our dearest friends!
Emma is still looking at Jane, who is still studiously
avoiding her gaze.

65 INT. HARTFIELD MINT DRAWING ROOM - LATER - NIGHT 65

Emma is seated at the piano, playing for the guests, who are
seated in concert format around her. Harriet stands at her
shoulder to turn the pages. Her playing is competent, but it
lacks brilliance. She finishes the piece and everyone
applauds. She stands up, gesturing to Jane to take her place.

EMMA
Miss Fairfax? What a pity you
didn’t bring your music.

Jane stands up too.

JANE FAIRFAX
I hope that I can recollect the
tune.
Emma yields the piano to Jane and goes to sits down next to
Harriet, who leans over and whispers, loyally-
 55A. 56.

HARRIET Annoyed, Emma looks over and sees Mr Knightley gazing at Jane
Nobody in the world plays like you with frank appreciation.
do.
Mr Woodhouse is sitting next to Miss Bates, who is fanning
Jane Fairfax begins to play. It’s immediately apparent that herself energetically with a fan. The draught is maddening to
she is leagues ahead of Emma in terms of technical skill and him. She doesn’t notice: she’s captivated by Jane.
poetic feeling.
EMMA
(to Harriet, whispering)
She is so cold, so cautious! There
is no getting at her real opinion.
She is wrapped up in a cloak of
politeness, determined to hazard
nothing at all.
Mr Knightley gets up and comes over to Emma.

MR KNIGHTLEY
I am glad you invited Miss Fairfax
to play; having no instrument at
her grandmother’s, it must be a
real indulgence.
EMMA
I am glad you approve; but I hope I
am not often deficient in what is
due to my guests at Hartfield.

MR KNIGHTLEY
No, you are not often deficient.
(beat)
You make it very plain you do not
like Miss Fairfax.
EMMA
Everybody supposes we must be so
fond of each other, because our
ages are the same. Ever since I can
remember, I have been told that I
could have no better companion than
Jane Fairfax. She who is so
accomplished and so superior.
MR KNIGHTLEY
She is certainly accomplished;
perhaps, the accomplished young
woman you wish to be thought
yourself.

Jane finishes the piece she’s playing and everyone but Emma
applauds. Mr Knightley looks at Emma. Sulkily, Emma switches
on a smile and applauds, half-heartedly.
 56A. 57.

66 OMITTED 66

67 EXT. HIGHBURY MARKET SQUARE - DAY 67

It’s raining hard.

68 INT. FORD’S HABERDASHER - DAY 68

Harriet examines ribbons while Emma complains about Jane.
EMMA
Three months of doing more than I
wish, and less than I ought, for
that indifferent, imperturbable
statue!

HARRIET
Where do you suppose he has gone?
EMMA
Who?
HARRIET
Mr Elton.
The door opens and the Martin sisters come in, followed by
Robert Martin. They’re all very wet. Harriet and Robert both
startle, red-faced. But there’s nowhere to hide.
HARRIET (CONT’D)
(to Emma, in a whisper)
I must go.
But it’s too late.
ELIZABETH MARTIN
Harriet. We have missed you.
(with a glance at Robert)
My mother has been asking for you.
(MORE)
 58. 59.

ELIZABETH MARTIN (CONT'D)

Will you come and visit us again? Harriet nods, steeling herself. James opens the door and
helps Harriet out, not noticing that she drops the muff she
Harriet glances at Emma, stricken, not knowing what to do. has been clutching in her lap. The women don’t notice it
But she can’t decline the invitation. She nods. either. Harriet goes apprehensively down the path to the
cottage, trying to be brave, and James returns to the
HARRIET driver’s seat to wait.
(in a whisper)
Of course. Good day, Miss Martin, Emma watches from the carriage as Mrs Martin, Elizabeth
Miss Catherine Martin. Martin and her sister greet Harriet warmly, smiling, hugging
(beat) hugging her, inviting her in.
Mr Martin.
A HORSEMAN appears, coming from the opposite direction. He
Curtseying awkwardly to Robert Martin, she goes out. reins in when he sees the carriage, hailing James.

69 EXT. FORD’S HABERDASHER - DAY 69 72 INT. EMMA’S CARRIAGE - DAY 72

She is walking away, through the rain, when- Right outside the carriage window is the horseman’s foot and
knee; Emma cranes to see the rider, and perceives a handsome
ROBERT MARTIN (O.S.) man, dashingly coiffed and wearing very tight trousers. (It
Miss Smith! is FRANK CHURCHILL, but Emma doesn’t know this yet.)
Harriet turns. He has followed her out into the rain; even in FRANK CHURCHILL
a few seconds they have both become drenched. A beat, all the I seek the village of Highbury,
more romantic for the rain. Then- sir. Is it near?
ROBERT MARTIN (CONT’D) JAMES
The near way is flooded. You would Very near, sir. But three miles.
do better going round by Mr Cole’s Over the bridge, then left at the
stables. The ground is higher Crown, and you’ll see the steeple.
there.
FRANK CHURCHILL
Thank you. I’m very much obliged.
70 OMITTED 70
He tosses a coin to James, roguishly, then turns and looks
directly at Emma. The move is flirty and very practised: he
71 EXT. ABBEY MILL LANE - A FEW DAYS LATER - DAY 71 was aware of her the whole time, but he has saved his first
look in order to dazzle her. Then he sees Harriet’s muff in
Emma’s carriage makes its way down the lane towards the Abbey the dirt. He dismounts, picks it up, then opens the carriage
Mill Farm and comes to a halt. Emma is talking her into it. door and presents it to Emma like a prince in a fairy tale.

EMMA As he puts the foot up on the carriage step, the whole

You behaved extremely well; and it carriage leans towards him, almost tipping her into his lap.
is over. As a first meeting, it
cannot occur again. A little stunned, she takes the muff. He winks, tips his hat,
then shuts the door, mounts his horse, kicks it into a
Harriet is nodding, talking herself into it. canter, and tears off.

EMMA (CONT’D)
You must stay no more than a 73 INT. HARTFIELD HOTHOUSE - THE NEXT MORNING - DAY 73
quarter of an hour, and allow no
dangerous reminiscences. There must Emma is among the flowers, selecting blooms, humming happily
be no recurrence into the past. to herself, when she sees, through the misted windows of the
hothouse, the man she encountered the previous day.
 60. 61.

He shimmers through the misted glass, almost as if he has EMMA

been conjured by Emma’s imagination. He sees Emma and smiles. You must know your arrival has been
long anticipated.
Then Mr and Mrs Weston appear behind him, and Emma realises
who he is. Across the street, Mrs Goddard is walking her crocodile of
girls, who are completely star-struck at the sight of Frank
Churchill in his tight trousers.
74 INT. HARTFIELD HOTHOUSE - CONTINUOUS - DAY 74
FRANK CHURCHILL
They’ve come in. Mr Weston presents Frank to Emma, proudly. I have always had the greatest
curiosity to visit. Now that I am
MR WESTON here, I find it lovelier than ever
My son, Mr Frank Churchill; Miss I imagined.
Emma Woodhouse.
He holds his arms out to embrace the scene, turning about,
Frank bows, eyes twinkling, and Emma curtseys. speaking deliberately loudly enough for the girls to hear-

MR WESTON (CONT’D) FRANK CHURCHILL (CONT’D)

He has caught us quite by surprise! Oh, airy, cheerful, happy-seeming
Highbury!
EMMA
He has indeed. The girls dissolve in giggles. Mrs Goddard shoos them on.

The fact they met yesterday is already like a private joke EMMA
between them. I believe we have a mutual
acquaintance in Jane Fairfax. Did
FRANK CHURCHILL you meet often at Weymouth?
There are not many houses I should
presume on so far, sir, but in Up ahead is Ford’s. He runs to it.
coming home, I felt that I might
take the liberty. FRANK CHURCHILL
Oh- pray let us go in here, that I
Mr Weston is looking at Emma eagerly, anxiously: he wants the may prove myself to be a true
two of them to fall in love as soon as possible. To that end- citizen of Highbury. I must buy
something at Ford’s!
MR WESTON
We have made a plan to walk to the He makes for the door. But Emma doesn’t move. He perceives
village, Emma. Will you join us? her hesitation and returns to her.
FRANK CHURCHILL (CONT’D)
75 EXT. HIGHBURY BRIDGE - LATER - DAY 75 But I beg your pardon, Miss
Woodhouse- you were speaking to me.
Mr and Mrs Weston are walking a discreet distance ahead,
leaving Emma and Frank Churchill to walk together. EMMA
I merely asked whether you had
EMMA known much of Miss Fairfax and her
Do you plan to stay in Highbury party at Weymouth.
long?
FRANK CHURCHILL
FRANK CHURCHILL And now that I understand the
But two weeks, alas. My aunt cannot question, I must pronounce it to be
spare me any longer. a very unfair one. It is always the
lady’s right to decide on the
degree of acquaintance.
 62. 63.

EMMA FRANK CHURCHILL

Upon my word! You answer as To me nothing can make amends for
discreetly as she would herself. the want of a fine glow of health.
But her account leaves so much to Where features are indifferent, a
be guessed, that I really think you fine complexion gives beauty to
may say what you like of your them all; and where they are good,
acquaintance with her. the effect is–
(bowing to Emma)
FRANK CHURCHILL -well, fortunately, I need not
May I indeed? Shall we go in? attempt to describe what the effect
is.
He gestures toward the door again. They go into the shop.
Emma doesn’t quite know what to say. She’s flattered, but
feels guilty too.
76 INT. FORD’S HABERDASHER - DAY 76
Frank has seen Jane Fairfax through the window. She is with
Emma and Frank inspect the gloves laid out on the counter for Miss Bates, and they have just intercepted the Westons, and
a moment. Then, very casually: are talking in the street.

FRANK CHURCHILL FRANK CHURCHILL (CONT’D)

You are her intimate friend? Oh, good heaven. There she is!
(with mock horror)
EMMA My father will oblige me to talk to
Intimacy between Miss Fairfax and her. Ugh! I feel fatigued already!
me is quite out of the question. I
have no reason to think ill of her– He’s too wicked. Emma, still a little bewildered, smothers a
not the least– but I never could giggle.
attach myself to any one so
completely reserved. Outside, Mr Weston is gesturing to Ford’s and evidently
telling Jane and Miss Bates that Frank has arrived. Miss
FRANK CHURCHILL Bates is ecstatic. But Jane meets Frank’s eye through the
It is a most repulsive quality, glass, then takes her aunt’s arm, reminding her of a prior
indeed. There is safety in reserve, engagement. They farewell the Westons and move away.
but no attraction. One cannot love
a reserved person. Nor a person so
continually out of health. 77 EXT. HIGHBURY MARKET SQUARE - LATER - DAY 77

EMMA Emma and Frank Churchill have resumed their walk. They pass
(feeling guilty) the Crown Inn. Stacks of chairs have been piled outside, *
Her constitution is delicate. ready for a cart to come and clear them away. Frank gestures *
to it.
FRANK CHURCHILL
Here is where you have your balls,
I suppose? Every fortnight through
the winter?
EMMA
(laughing)
I am afraid Highbury may yet
disappoint you, Mr Churchill. We
have not society enough for
dancing.
 64. 64A.

FRANK CHURCHILL But Mrs Weston, looking uncomfortable, stops him. *

Oh, but an inn of this size must
have a ball-room; and where there MRS WESTON *
is a ball-room, there can be a Mr Weston. *
ball. We cannot do without dancing! * (delicately) *
The Coles are good people, but *
He grabs her hand, grinning, and leads her in a dance through * their origins are low. It is not *
the forest of chairs. * for merchants to set the terms on *
which the superior families visit *
FRANK CHURCHILL (CONT’D) * them. *
(as he dances) *
Instances have been known of young * MR WESTON *
people passing many, many months * But Frank is in Highbury only two *
successively, without being at any * weeks! And we have all been *
ball of any description, and no * invited. *
material injury either to body or *
to mind; but when a beginning is * MRS WESTON *
made- * (even more delicately) *
Harriet Smith has not been invited. *
Mr and Mrs Weston have joined them. He’s addressing them all, * (to Frank) *
showing off a little, enjoying his own flamboyance. * Emma’s dear companion. *
FRANK CHURCHILL (CONT’D) * A slightly awkward beat. Emma glances at Frank, battling with *
-when the felicities of motion have * hersel. She knows she should be loyal to Harriet, and she *
once been felt- it must be a very * feels real snobbery towards the Coles. But she wants to go. *
heavy heart that does not ask for *
more. * At last: *

Mr Weston, infected by Frank’s energy, takes Mrs Weston by * EMMA *

the hand and leads her in a few steps. She’s laughing. * I am sure I would not wish to *
disappoint the Coles- such good, *
MRS WESTON * friendly, unpretending people, who *
It is very dirty. * have been our neighbours these ten *
years! *
MR WESTON *
My dear, you are too particular! By *
candle-light it will be as clean as * 78 OMITTED 78 *
Randalls! We must have a ball. *
FRANK CHURCHILL *
And when we do- *
(bowing to Emma) *
May I hope for the honour of your *
hand for the first two dances? *
Emma is delighted. She curtseys. *
Mr Weston doesn’t want the moment to end. Eagerly: *

MR WESTON *
(eagerly) *
The Coles are to host a supper- *
party in Frank’s honour. Perhaps *
there will be dancing there. *
 65-66. 67.

79 OMITTED 79 82 OMITTED 82

80 OMITTED 80 83 EXT. COLES’ RESIDENCE - NIGHT 83

The Coles’ driveway is crowded. Emma’s carriage turns in, and
81 OMITTED 81 the coachman opens the door for Emma, and she steps out. She
is delighted to see Mr Knightley step out from around the
Knightley carriage. He’s also well dressed.
EMMA
Mr Knightley! This is coming as you
should do, like a gentleman.
MR KNIGHTLEY
(amused)
You think me more of a gentleman
than usual?
EMMA
Indeed I do. You do not use your
carriage so often as becomes the
owner of Donwell Abbey. Had you
arrived on foot, I should not have
been so happy to walk in with you.
They start ascending the stairs to the house.
MR KNIGHTLEY
I am surprised you are happy to
walk in at all. So Emma Woodhouse
deigned to accept an invitation
from the merchant Mr Cole!

EMMA
Mr Churchill will soon return to
Yorkshire. We must make the most of
every opportunity before he does.
MR KNIGHTLEY
(sarcastic)
“We must.”
EMMA
He is in Highbury only two weeks.
MR KNIGHTLEY
And yet he spent a whole day going
to London just to get his hair cut.
Sixteen miles twice over. He is a
trifling, silly fop.
 67A. 68.

They pass into the house. Emma suppresses a look of disdain at Mrs Cole’s crassness.
MRS COLE (CONT’D)
84 INT. COLES’ RESIDENCE - NIGHT - LATER 84 A pianoforte - very elegant-
delivered to Miss Fairfax this very
Dinner is over and the guests are moving through into the morning with no return address!
next room.
Emma glances around jealously, realising that almost everyone
Mr Knightley and Frank Churchill find themselves in each is talking about Jane:
other’s vicinity. They are trying to avoid each other,
feeling mutual dislike, but Mr Cole appears between them. MRS COX *
(to Mrs Weston)
MR COLE I never saw so fine an instrument-
Such grand estates you have in
common, gentlemen! Donwell Abbey, MISS GILBERT
and Enscombe- (to Mrs Cox)
A pianoforte, very elegant, and
At the mention of the word ‘Enscombe’, Jane throws Frank a with no return address!
look. He is flummoxed. Mr Cole realises he has made a mistake-
MRS COX *
MR COLE (CONT’D) (to Mrs Weston)
(to Frank) No return address!
Soon to inherit, of course. Soon to
inherit Enscombe. MRS COLE
(realising he has made (to Emma)
another) Jane herself is quite at a loss-
Not too soon. I trust your uncle quite bewildered to think who could
Churchill is in good health? have sent it.

Neither Mr Knightley nor Frank Churchill wants to take up MRS COX *

this awkward attempt at small talk. They bow stiffly to one (still to Mrs Weston)
another then move away, Mr Knightley towards Emma, and Frank Bewildered indeed-
towards Mr Weston. Mr Cole, also glad to be released from his
embarrassment, moves off to speak to Jane. MR KNIGHTLEY
(to Mrs Cole)
Mrs Cole, meanwhile, has taken Emma’s arm. Perhaps her friends the Campbells?

MRS COLE In the background Mr Cole has led Jane to the piano and is
And have you heard the choicest inviting her to leaf through the piano music.
piece of gossip, that has set all
the tongues of the village aflame? MRS COLE
One can suppose nothing else, but
Jane had a letter from them very
lately-
MISS GILBERT *
(clocking in)
Tuesday-

MRS COLE
-and not a word was said about it.
*
 68A. 69.

MRS COX * EMMA

They are entirely confounded! * I suppose I smile for pleasure. A
pianoforte is a handsome present.
MISS GILBERT *
Such a lavish gift. * FRANK CHURCHILL
Very.
MRS COLE *
Jane is so very accomplished. * EMMA
I rather wonder it was never made
MRS COX/MISS GILBERT/MRS COLE * before.
Indeed! *
Mr Knightley has left Miss Bates and Mrs Cole and joined Jane
MRS COX * and Mr Cole at the piano. Mr Cole suggests they sing a duet
I have never known facility like together and goes to dispatch a servant to fetch a violin for
hers! Mr Knightley to play, leaving Jane and Mr Knightley alone.
Emma sees that Frank Churchill is having his glass refreshed FRANK CHURCHILL
by the Coles’ butler. He is smiling. Bored by the endless Perhaps Miss Fairfax has never been
conversation about Jane, she steps away from Miss Bates and staying here so long before.
Mrs Cole and goes over to him, smiling too.
EMMA
EMMA Or that Colonel Campbell did not
Why do you smile? give her the use of his own
instrument, which must now be shut
FRANK CHURCHILL up in London, untouched by anybody.
Nay, why do you?
Frank glances at Jane, who looks up and catches his eye. Her
expression is not warm.
FRANK CHURCHILL
(wickedly, to Emma)
She has done her hair in so odd a
way. I never saw anything like it!
It must be a fancy of her own. I
see nobody else looking like her.
Emma smothers a laugh, unkindly.
Jane looks over at them, hurt. She hasn’t caught the
substance of their conversation, but she knows from their
body language that they are being unkind.

Frank, who has used this spiteful jab to regain his

composure, resumes:
FRANK CHURCHILL (CONT’D)
If Colonel Campbell is not the
person, who can be? Mrs Dixon? A
token of her friendship perhaps.
But Emma has been encouraged by Frank’s unkindness to be
unkind herself. She lowers her voice too-
 69A. 70.

EMMA Frank Churchill hesitates. He looks over at Jane, who is the

What do you say to Mr Dixon? very model of respectable politeness. Then he nods.

FRANK CHURCHILL FRANK CHURCHILL

Mr Dixon! At first, supposing that Colonel
Campbell was the giver, I saw it
EMMA only as paternal kindness. But now
He saved her life. Did you ever I can see it in no other light than
hear of it? A water-party, and by as a secret offering of love!
some accident she was falling
overboard. He caught her. Emma smothers another laugh. Mr Knightley glances at her.
Mr Knightley receives the violin and tunes it, ready to play.
The others move closer. Mr Cole addresses them all-
MR COLE
Ladies and gentlemen, a duet.
Jane and Mr Knightley begin to play a gorgeous duet.
Mrs Weston comes over to speak to Emma.
MRS WESTON
What do you say to this, Emma? I
have made a match between Mr
Knightley and Jane Fairfax.
Emma has recoiled at the very thought.
EMMA
Mr Knightley and Jane Fairfax!
MRS WESTON
This pianoforte has been sent to
her by somebody- and she has always
been a favourite with him.
(even more excitedly)
Tonight he sent his carriage for
her as a courtesy- and walked
himself! Was that not gallant?
Emma is taken aback. So Mr Knightley didn’t arrive as a
gentleman after all! Feeling foolish, she watches him play.
Frank, next to her, is also in a bad mood; it’s unclear how
much of Mrs Weston’s gossip he has heard.
Jane and Mr Knightley are now singing. Everyone joins in
lustily for the chorus. Emma and Frank are the only people
who aren’t having fun.

84A EXT. COLES’ RESIDENCE - NIGHT 84A

The sound of their singing filters out into the night.
 70A. 71.

85 OMITTED 85 86 OMITTED 86

87 EXT. HARTFIELD - DAY 87

Emma intercepts Harriet just as she’s approaching the house.
Her coat is already on, and she’s tying on her bonnet.
EMMA
Let us pay a call on Jane Fairfax.

HARRIET
(bewildered)
Jane Fairfax? Whatever for?

Emma has already left. Harriet hurries after her.

88 INT. MRS BATES’ ROOMS IN HIGHBURY - DAY 88

Emma and Harriet come into the tiny room to find Frank
Churchill fiddling with Mrs Bates’ spectacles, while Jane
plays the piano. It takes up an absurd amount of space in the
room. She stops playing as they come in. Frank jumps up.
 72. 72A.

FRANK CHURCHILL FRANK CHURCHILL

Miss Woodhouse. Miss Smith. You If she is distressed, it must be
find me trying to be useful. Come, for a reason. She has something to
tell me if I shall succeed. hide.

He makes space for her to sit by him. There isn’t much room.
Emma has to squeeze around the piano to go to Frank, which
flusters and irritates her.
MISS BATES
The rivet on my mother’s spectacles
came out this morning, and who
should leap to our assistance but
Mr Frank Churchill! “Oh” said he “I
do think I can fasten the rivet; I
like a job of this kind
excessively!” Which you know showed
him to be so very- Miss Smith- he
far exceeds anything- everyone
should have two pairs of
spectacles. They should indeed.
Jane said so. “Oh I can fasten the
rivet” said he!

She goes on; but we have crossed to Frank and Emma, who are
seated next to one another.
Jane, with a glance at Emma, has started playing again.
FRANK CHURCHILL
(to Jane)
What a felicity to hear that tune
again! If I mistake it not, it was
danced at Weymouth. With Mr Dixon.
Jane falters. She looks at Emma, confused. Emma is smothering
a smile. She starts playing something else.
EMMA
(in a whisper)
You speak too plain. She must
understand you.
FRANK CHURCHILL
(also in a whisper)
I hope she does.
EMMA
Mine was a random guess. Do not
distress her.
 73. 73A.

MISS BATES FRANK CHURCHILL (CONT’D)

(to Harriet) Perhaps, Miss Woodhouse– I think
And Mr Knightley has honoured us you can hardly be without
with a gift of apples. Donwell suspicion—
apples, with his very special
compliments!

89 INT. HARTFIELD, EMMA’S ROOM - NIGHT 89

Emma is in her nightgown. She’s sitting in the window,
reflective, doubting herself. She stares at the flame of the
candle on the sill, then reaches out and snuffs out the
flame.

90 EXT. HARTFIELD SHRUBBERY - THE NEXT DAY - DAY 90

Emma is cutting roses in the garden. The wind whips her dress
against the roses and she has to tug it free of the thorns.
Frank Churchill comes up behind her. Mr Weston is waiting at
a discreet distance, giving them time to say goodbye.

FRANK CHURCHILL
Of all horrid things, leave-taking
is the worst.

EMMA
But you will come again. This will
not be your only visit to Highbury.
FRANK CHURCHILL
I am at the mercy of my aunt in
that regard. As I am in everything.
(beat)
She and uncle are to spend the
season in Richmond, however.
He seems to be trying to tell her something and he doesn’t
know how. The wind is aggravating him, as is the fact that
Emma isn’t giving him her full attention.
EMMA
Richmond! But that is but nine
miles away. You may visit every day
if you wish! And we shall have our
ball.

FRANK CHURCHILL
Our ball. My father depends on it.
Something’s wrong.
 74. 74A.

He’s about to go on, but Mr Woodhouse appears at the window. 92 INT. HIGHBURY PARISH CHURCH - AN HOUR LATER - MORNING 92
MR WOODHOUSE The service has now concluded; the parishioners are standing.
Emma! The wind- you will catch your Mr Elton proceeds down the aisle first, and then both Emma
death! Come in at once, I beg you! and Mrs Elton turn to follow him. A tiny beat, as there is a
battle of wills as to who will go first. Then Mrs Elton
Mr Weston is waiting for Frank. There isn’t time to say sweeps after Mr Elton, taking his arm.
anything more. Frank bows to her.
Harriet and Emma, disbelieving, fall into step behind them.
FRANK CHURCHILL
Goodbye. HARRIET
(distraught)
And he goes to join his father. Emma stares after him, He is married!
frowning slightly. She’s not quite sure what just happened.
EMMA
It cannot be a long acquaintance.
91 INT. HIGHBURY PARISH CHURCH - MORNING 91 He has only been gone six weeks!
Emma and Mr Woodhouse walk down the aisle to their usual pew, Mr Woodhouse is following them out.
Harriet following behind them. Halfway down the aisle, Emma
sees, to her astonishment, that someone is sitting in her At the door, Mr and Mrs Elton station themselves at the door
place: a woman, very showily dressed. She’s facing front. in order to greet each member of the congregation as they
depart. When Emma, Harriet and Mr Woodhouse approach, Mr
When they reach the front, she sees them, and turns. MRS Elton presents Mrs Elton, addressing Mr Woodhouse:
ELTON is a social climber, competitive, modern, brash, self-
serving- and triumphantly married. MR ELTON
My wife, Mrs Augusta Elton.
Emma is dumbstruck, and doesn’t know how to handle the
situation. Harriet is bewildered. Mrs Elton doesn’t get up. MR WOODHOUSE
She looks at Emma coolly, and then gives her a haughty smile. (to Mrs Elton)
I hate weddings. People make you
Emma and Mr Woodhouse are obliged to sit in the far pew. As eat their favourite food.
they sit down, Mr Woodhouse sees to his displeasure that Mrs
Elton has just found the folded blanket under their pew. She
tucks it over her knees with satisfaction.
At the altar, Mr Elton begins to intone the day’s scripture:

MR ELTON
Enter not into judgment with thy
servant, O Lord; for in thy sight
shall no man living be justified.
(portentous beat)
Dearly beloved brethren, the
Scripture moveth us in sundry
places to acknowledge and confess
our manifold sins and
wickedness...es.
(then, with pride)
Wickednesses.
 75. 76.

MRS ELTON MRS ELTON

(not listening) I really could almost fancy myself
We really seem quite the fashion! at Maple Grove. The staircase– as I
From Monday to Saturday, I assure came in, I observed how very like
you we have not a disengaged day. the staircase is; placed exactly in
(turning to Emma, and the same part of the house.
gesturing to the
congregation) MR ELTON
What charming society, Miss Very true, my dear.
Woodhouse, for such a small and
sheltered village. Mrs Weston MRS ELTON
appears so truly good– there is I really could not help exclaiming!
something so motherly and kind- I assure you, Miss Woodhouse, it is
hearted about her. very delightful to me, to be
(lowering her voice) reminded of a place I am so
She was your governess, I think? extremely partial to as Maple
Grove.
Emma is too shocked to answer.
MR ELTON
MRS ELTON (CONT’D) A most impress ive residence.
I was rather astonished to find her
so very ladylike! But she is really MRS ELTON
quite the gentlewoman. Whenever you are transplanted, like
me, Miss Woodhouse, you will
understand how very delightful it
93 INT. HARTFIELD MINT DRAWING ROOM - A FEW DAYS LATER - DAY 93 is to meet with anything at all
that reminds one of what one has
Mr and Mrs Elton are seated on the sofa. They both look left behind.
triumphant, but in different ways: Mr Elton is vengeful, Mrs
Elton lofty. Emma, Harriet, and Mr Woodhouse sit opposite. Emma opens her mouth to reply, but Mrs Elton goes on, now
Harriet looks so miserable she might be sick. Tea has been addressing Mr Woodhouse-
served, and the servants have withdrawn.
MRS ELTON (CONT’D)
MRS ELTON We have been calling at Randalls.
This house is very like my brother What pleasant people the Westons
Mr Suckling’s seat at Maple Grove. seem to be. And who do you think
Very like. I am quite struck by the c ame in while we were there?
likeness. Is it not astonishingly Knightley! Knightley himself!
like, dear husband?
Emma is appalled at her presumption. Even Mr Elton looks a
MR ELTON bit embarrassed. But Mrs Elton goes on gaily:
Very like.
MRS ELTON (CONT’D)
Of course, as so particular a
friend of Mr E’s, I had a great
curiosity to meet him. ‘My friend
Knightley’ had been so often
mentioned, that I was really
impatient to see him; and I must do
my cara sposo the justice to sa y
that he need not be at all ashamed
of his friend. Knightley is quite
the gentleman. I like him very
much.
 77. 78.

MISS BATES (CONT'D)

94 EXT. HARTFIELD GROUNDS - DAY 94 Excellently contrived, upon my word-
nothing wanting- could not have
Emma and Harriet are walking together, Emma very fast, imagined- Miss Woodhouse, you must
Harriet struggling a little to keep up. really have had Aladdin’s lamp!
This is meeting quite in fairyland-
EMMA such a transformation! Where shall
Knightley! I could not have we sit, where shall we sit?
believed it. Knightley! Never seen Anywhere where Jane is not in a
him in her life before, and call draught. Where I sit is of no
him Knightley! consequence...
She beheads a flower at the roadside, savagely. Mrs Elton has buttonholed Jane Fairfax and is talking with
equal rapidity, over the top of Miss Bates:
EMMA (CONT’D)
And to discover that he is a MRS ELTON
gentleman! Upstart, vulgar being, How do you like my gown? I do not
with her Mr E, and her cara sposo- know whether it is not over-
trimmed; I have the greatest
Mr Weston appears, beaming, wavin g a letter. dislike to the idea of being over-
trimmed– quite a horror of finery.
MR WESTON I must put on a few ornaments now,
Emma! The Churchills have settled because it is expected. A bride,
at Richmond. We shall have our you know, must appear like a bride,
ball! but my natural taste is all for
simplicity.
95 INT. HARTFIELD, EMMA’S ROOM - NIGHT 95 Emma spots Frank Churchill nearby, talking to his father.

Harriet and Emma, in their nightgowns with their hair down, EMMA
are practicing their steps. They are taking turns to lead Mr Churchill!
each other around the room.
He turns, and she goes to drop into a pretty curtsey, plainly
HARRIET rehearsed. But by the time she rises, Frank has already bowed
You dance so beautifully. curtly, and is making to move away.
She mucks up a step and they bump in to one another. FRANK CHURCHILL
Good evening, Miss Woodhouse. You
EMMA will excuse me: I must inquire
No. You are Frank Churchill. Let’s after good Miss Bates.
do it again.
He goes to speak to Miss Bates, leaving Emma confounded.

96 INT. CROWN BALLROOM - NIGHT 96 MRS WESTON

Emma!
The space has been sweetly decorated, and really does look
much better by candle-light. Musicians are already playing, Emma turns. Mrs Weston is coming towards her, distressed. She
and a small crowd is milling about. is now six months pregnant. Mr Weston is by her side. His
expression is also concerned.
Emma and Harriet come in, marvelling at the transformation.
But before Emma can enjoy the scene, Miss Bates comes in too-
MISS BATES
Well! This is brilliant indeed!
This is admirable!
(MORE)
 79. 79A.

MRS WESTON (CONT’D) Miss Bates, meanwhile, is showing Jane off to any and all who
It has just occurred to us that Mrs will listen:
Elton will expect to be asked to
begin the ball- and she will surely MISS BATES
think Frank ought to ask her. How do you like Jane’s hair? She
did it all herself. Quite
Emma glances at Mrs Elton, who is still talking to Jane- wonderful. No hairdresser from
London I think could...
MRS ELTON
And I see very few pearls in the Just then Mr Knightley enters. He catches Emma’s eye, and
room except mine. smiles at her, kindly, naturally. She returns the smile, a
little sadly. Already the evening feels a little spoiled.
MR WESTON
(to Emma) Mr. Weston is trying to get a word in with Mrs. Elton. At *
Frank cannot break his promise to last he manages- *
you. He has promised you the first
two dances! Here is the plan. I MR WESTON *
will ask Mrs Elton. The ball is in Mrs. Elton! Such an honourable *
Frank’s honour, but it was my addition to our humble festivities- *
design. I will ask her.
MR ELTON *
He hurries off to tell his plan first to Frank, who is still (interposing) *
with Miss Bates, and then to Mrs Elton. And so fashionable. *

Miss Bates is thrilled to be waited on by Frank. MR WESTON *

Quite. Would you grant me the *
MISS BATES infinite pleasure of leading us all *
Such a noble fire, I am quite in the first dance? *
roasted!
She accepts, and is led to the top of the dance by Mr Weston. *
Mrs Weston turns to Emma, apologetic:
MRS ELTON
MRS WESTON Oh, must I go first? I really am
You must submit to stand second. ashamed to be always leading the
way!
EMMA
A bride must be first in company.
(beat- then, sardonic)
It is almost enough to make me
think of marrying.
Mrs Elton comes over, having left Jane with Miss Bates.
MRS ELTON
Jane Fairfax is absolutely
charming. I quite rave about Jane
Fairfax. A sweet, interesting
creature. So mild and ladylike- and
with such talents! We must exert
ourselves, Miss Woodhouse, and
endeavour to do something for her.
Such talents as hers must not be
suffered to remain unknown.
 80. 81.

Frank comes over, bows to Emma, and holds out his hand. She MR ELTON
takes it, and he leads her into the dance. Miss Smith!

Mr Weston leads with Mrs Elton; Frank Churchill and Emma Mr Knightley looks up at this, and frowns.
follow second. Three other couples make up the set. The music
starts up, the couples bow and curtsey, and the dance begins. MR ELTON (CONT’D)
If I were not an old married man–
Frank Churchill is a good dancer, but somehow the dance isn’t but my dancing days are over, Mrs
any fun for Emma. He doesn’t smile or talk, and seems to be Weston. You will excuse me.
concentrating on the steps rather than on Emma: he’s counting
the beat under his breath. And he leaves Mrs Weston, steps around Harriet, and goes to
the far side of the room.
EMMA
(as they dance) Harriet is devastated. But Mr Knightley, who has observed Mr
You have been much missed in Elton’s rudeness with disgust, puts down his glass of wine,
Highbury. goes to her, and quietly extends his hand.

FRANK CHURCHILL MR KNIGHTLEY

Have I? Will you dance, Miss Smith?

He doesn’t offer more. They keep dancing. Emma tries again. Blushing with pleasure, Harriet accepts.

EMMA Emma, still dancing, is weak with relief and gratitude.

How is your aunt? Harriet is beaming. Mr Knightley leads Harriet to the top of
the floor to wait for the dance to end so they can join the
FRANK CHURCHILL second.
(with repressed anger)
Most reluctant to release me. Mr Elton, now left alone, looks very foolish. He tries to
saunter to another part of the room, but trips on the rug,
Emma, as they turn about, notices that Harriet is alone at and then nimbly rights himself. To cover his embarrassment:
the edge of the room. Sh e has been forgotten. Mr Elton is
sauntering about. Harriet keeps glancing at him, miserably. MR ELTON
My dancing days are behind me.
Mrs Weston, who is not dancing owing to her pregnancy, steps
up to Mr Elton- The first dance comes to an end and Mr Knightley and Harriet
take their places to begin the second. Emma and Harriet beam
MRS WESTON at each other. The men bow and the women curtsey, and the
Do you not dance, Mr Elton? second dance begins.

MR ELTON
Most readily, Mrs Weston, if you 97 OMITTED 97
will dance with me.
(seeing her belly)
Ah- well. Perhaps-
MRS WESTON
There is a young lady disengaged
whom I should be very glad to see
dancing. Miss Smith.
H arriet can hear them perfectly, but is trying to pretend
that she can’t. She looks wretched.
 82. 83.

98 INT. CROWN BALLROOM - LATER - NIGHT 98 MR ELTON

(in a furious whisper)
The second dance comes to an end. Mr Weston escorts Mrs Elton I am not embarrassing myself!
back to Mr Elton, and Frank immediately asks Harriet if she
would like to dance the third dance with him, leaving Emma MR KNIGHTLEY
and Mr Knightley both without partners. They both step aside. Whom are you going to dance with?
Emma comes to speak to him at the side of the room.
EMMA
EMMA With you, if you will ask me.
Thank you. For your kindness to
Harriet. MR KNIGHTLEY
Will you?
MR KNIGHTLEY
He was unpardonably rude- and he EMMA
aimed at wounding more than Indeed I will. You have shown that
Harriet. you can dance, and we are not
really so much brother and sister
EMMA as to make it improper.
I was completely mistaken in Mr
Elton. There is a littleness about MR KNIGHTLEY
him which you discovered, and which (laughing)
I did not. I was fully convinced of Brother and sister! No indeed.
his being in love with Harriet.
He holds out his hand, smiling, and she takes it.
Mr Knightley glances at her. Then, kindly:
MR KNIGHTLEY 99 INT. CROWN BALLROOM - LATER - NIGHT 99
You would have chosen for him
better than he has chosen for They go hand in hand to the top of the floor. The music
himself. Harriet Smith has some strikes up; they bow and curtsey, then begin to dance. Mr
first-rate qualities, which Mrs Knightley never breaks eye contact. At first he’s smiling,
Elton is totally without. She does and Emma is too. But as the dance goes on, their smiles fade,
you credit, Emma, as you do her. and their breath shortens. They are looking openly at one
another for the first time in their lives.
This warms Emma’s heart more than she can say.
Mr Weston is trying to rouse everybody to dance again. 100 EXT. CROWN INN - DAWN 100
MR WESTON The ball has lasted until dawn, and the guests are only just
Come, Miss Woodhouse, Miss Gilbert, leaving. Emma exits to where the coachmen, now very tired,
Miss Fairfax, what are you all are waiting by the carriages to take people home.
doing? We must dance another set.
Come Emma, set your companions an She looks around for Mr Knightley before she gets in, but
example. They are lazy! They are can’t see him. James helps her into the carriage and shuts
all asleep! the door, and the carriage drives off-
EMMA -just as Mr Knightley comes to the door. He looks after the
(laughing) departing carriage, tortured. Has he missed his moment to
I am ready, whenever I am wanted. tell Emma how he feels?
Mrs Elton has been trying to coax her husband on to the dance Suddenly decisive, he sets off after the carriage.
floor. He has to explain in a whisper that he can’t dance.
Mrs Elton responds furiously, and in the skirmish, we hear-
101 OMITTED 101
 84. 85.

102 OMITTED 102 FRANK CHURCHILL

I did not see it; I arrived moments
after, and brought her here- I
103 OMITTED 103 could think of no other place.
HARRIET
104 INT. HARTFIELD GREAT HALL - DAWN 104 It was on account of the scissors.

The hall is deserted: the servants are still in bed. Emma EMMA
steps in taking off her gloves. She is confused. The scissors?
FRANK CHURCHILL
105 INT. HARTFIELD, UPPER CORRIDOR - DAWN 105 (a little embarrassed)
I had borrowed a pair of scissors
Emma is going upstairs, but she’s too restless to sleep. She from Miss Bates. I was halfway home
flops down on a window-seat, still thinking about the ball... to Richmond when I made the
and then she turns to the window, and sits up: Mr Knightley recollection, and so doubled back.
is approaching outside. He sees her through the glass and (defensive, to Mr
falters. They hold each other’s gaze for a beat. Her breath Knightley)
catches- why has he come? Then she leaves the window seat and What’s your purpose here?
runs downstairs.
MR KNIGH TLEY
(lying)
106 EXT. HARTFIELD COURTYARD - DAWN 106 My carriage- my horse threw a shoe.

She exits to meet him. But when he sees her, all his EMMA
confidence fails. He can’t think of what to say, and she (surprised)
can’t either. A beat- and then Emma sees, over his shoulder, You took your carriage to the ball?
Frank Churchill, who is hurrying towards her, carrying
Harriet. Mr Knightley turns too. MR KNIGHTLEY
I-
EMMA
Mr Churchill! What has happened? HARRIET
What might have become of me, Miss
FRANK CHURCHILL Woodhouse, if not for the scissors!
(out of breath)
She was set upon by gypsies as she Something about this story seems strange to Mr Knightley. He
was coming home- when she attempted looks sharply at Frank, and then at Emma. But there’s no time
escape, she fell. She had a cramp- to ask for more information: they have reached the house. Mr
Knightley holds the door open for them, and Frank and Emma
HARRIET help Harriet into the house.
(weakly heroic)
From too much dancing.
107 INT. HARTFIELD GOLD DRAWING ROOM - DAWN 107
EMMA
Is she hurt? Frank Churchill lays Harriet down on a sofa and she cries out
in pain.
MR KNIGHTLEY
Her ankle. FRANK CHURCHILL
Her ankle is turned.
EMMA
We must send for Perry.
 86. 87.

FRANK CHURCHILL EMMA

And I will rouse my father. We Say nothing more. I am determined
ought to give notice that there are against all interference.
gypsies in the neighbourhood.
She looks around for the men. But Mr Knightley and Frank
MR KNIGHTLEY Churchill have gone. She’s a little disappointed, but too
Mrs Goddard should have assurance excited by Harriet’s new prospects to sulk.
of her safety.
EMMA (CONT’D)
As they have been talking, Harriet has whispered to Emma: I was very wrong before; I will be
cautious now. Let no name ever pass
HARRIET our lips.
Miss Woodhouse- I believe I am in
love again! Mr Woodhouse is electrified. But his vinaigrette isn’t
working.
MR KNIGHTLEY
Let us go at once. MR WOODHOUSE
Freshen the sponge, Bartholomew.
Frank is already on his way out the door. Impulsively- And we must have a bowl of gruel,
very thin.
EMMA (remembering Emma)
Mr Churchill. Do not go. Please. Two bowls.
(feeling hungry)
Mr Knightley is hurt by this. Emma doesn’t notice his hurt, In fact, three.
because just then Mr Woodhouse appears. He’s appalled.
Emma, meanwhile, can’t resist going on:
MR WOODHOUSE
What is the matter? What has EMMA
happened? Is she alive? He is your superior, no doubt, but
more wonderful things have taken
Harriet is patently alive. place; there have been matches of
greater disparity.
EMMA
Harriet is unharmed, papa. We owe HARRIET
our thanks to Mr Churchill. Oh! Miss Woodhouse, believe me I
(to Frank) have not the presumption to
Please stay. Mr Knightley can sound suppose– indeed, I am not so mad.
the alarm.
EMMA
MR KNIGHTLEY The service he rendered you-
(angry suddenly)
We will both go. HARRIET
Service! Oh! The very recollection
He takes Frank’s arm and bundles him out. But Mr Woodhouse of it, and all that I felt- when I
has caught the word- saw him coming– his noble look–
such a change, in one moment, from
MR WOODHOUSE misery to perfect happiness.
Why are we alarmed?

Bartholomew has appeared. He fumbles for the vinaigrette. 108 INT. DONWELL ABBEY, MR KNIGHTLEY’S ROOM / DOUBLE CUBE 108
- LATER - DAY
HARRIET
Oh, Miss Woodhouse- Mr Knightley returns to his room, furious with himself for
not having said what he wanted to say.
 88. 88A.

EMMA (CONT'D)
Suddenly he can’t bear the stricture of his cravat, his His ballrooms and picture galleries
jacket, his waistcoat. He begins tearing at his clothes. are quite shut up.

She means this teasingly. But Mr Knightley surprises her.

108A INT. HARTFIELD, EMMA’S ROOM - MORNING 108A Flatly, without meeting Emma’s eye:

Emma is being dressed by her maidservant. She’s lost in

thought, examining her feelings, wondering if she can dare
admit them even to herself.

109 INT. RANDALLS DINING ROOM - DAY 109

Mrs Elton, Mr Knightley, Emma and Jane Fairfax are playing
cards while the others take tea and converse.
MRS ELTON
What is this I hear, dear Jane,
about your going to the post office
in the rain last week! You sad
girl, how could you do such a
thing? We will not allow you to do
such a thing again. I shall speak
to Mr E. The man who fetches our
letters (one of our men, I forget
his name) shall inquire for yours
too. I shall arrange it.
JANE FAIRFAX
(glancing at Mr Knightley)
You are extremely kind, but I
cannot give up my daily walk. I am
advised to be out of doors as much
as I can. I must walk somewhere,
and the post-office is an object.
Emma has caught the glance between Jane and Mr Knightley. She
feels hurt.
MRS ELTON
Oh! But in the rain! And it is a
kindness to employ our men.
(impishly, to Emma)
Do you suppose Mr Knightley might
extend us all an invitation to the
Abbey, Miss Woodhouse? I love to
explore great houses, and I fear I
have long exhausted Highbury.
EMMA
I’m afraid Mr Knightley’s concerns
are all for his tenants, and none
for his house, Mrs Elton.
(MORE)
 89. 90.

MR KNIGHTLEY 110 EXT. DONWELL ABBEY - DAY (SUMMER) 110

I should be very glad to open
Donwell for your exploration, Mrs It’s a brilliant day. Donwell Abbey is gorgeously grand.
Elton. The welcome is long overdue.
The party- Mr Knightley, Harriet, Emma, Jane Fairfax, Mr and
Emma is a little put out. He’s still avoiding her eye. Mrs Elton, Mr and Mrs Weston (now seven months pregnant), Mrs
Bates, Miss Bates, and Mr Woodhouse, are roaming the grounds
MRS ELTON in front of the house.
I should like that of all things.
Name your day, and I will come. Mr Knightley is walking with Harriet, a little apart from the
others. He is explaining a feature on the distant hillside
MR KNIGHTLEY while Harriet listens. Mr Weston and Mr Elton have paired
(with tart politeness) off, Miss Bates and Mrs Weston are walking together, and Mr
I cannot name a day till I have Woodhouse is strolling with Mrs Bates. This leaves Emma, Mrs
spoken to some others whom I would Elton, and Jane Fairfax in an unlikely trio.
wish to form the party.
MRS ELTON
Emma glances jealously at Jane Fairfa x. (taking Emma’s arm)
Now, Miss Woodhouse, you must
MRS ELTON assist me. I have found a post for
Oh! Leave all that to me. It is my dear Jane as a governess. The
party. I will invite your guests. family is delightfully superior-
the first in their set- and I am
MR KNIGHTLEY wild to have the offer closed
I hope you will bring Elton, but I immediately.
will not trouble you to give any
other invitations. JANE FAIRFAX
I thank you, Mrs Elton, for your-
MRS ELTON
Oh! Now you are looking very sly. MRS ELTON
But consider; you need not be (talking over her)
afraid of delegating power to me. I I refuse to take her negative, and
am no young lady on her preferment. insist on being authorised to write
Married women, you know, may be an acquiescence by tomorrow’s post.
safely authorised.
JANE FAIRFAX
MR KNIGHTLEY (loudly, masking anger)
(getting cross) Will not Mr Knightley show us the
T here is but one married woman in house?
the world whom I can ever allow to
invite what guests she pleases to Mr Knightley stops talking to Harriet and looks at her,
Donwell. surprised. Everyone is surprised to see this flash of spirit
from Jane, whose face is suddenly very flushed.
MRS ELTON
(deflated) JANE FAIRFAX (CONT’D)
Mrs Weston, I suppose. All of the house? I wish to see the
whole extent.
MR KNIGHTLEY
No: Mrs Knightley, and till she is
in being, I will manage such 111 OMITTED 111
matters myself.
 91. 91A.

MRS ELTON (CONT'D)

112 INT. DONWELL, DOUBLE CUBE - DAY 112 His quaint, old-fashioned
politeness is much more to my taste
The dust sheets have been taken away, and the chandeliers than modern ease; modern ease often
unbagged. The place looks splendid, though still very like a disgusts me.
museum. The party- Jane Fairfax, Miss Bates, Emma, Harriet,
Mr Woodhouse, Mr and Mrs Weston, Mr and Mrs Elton, and Mr Mr Weston, meanwhile, is enthusing to Mrs Weston and Miss
Knightley- file through the entrance to the double cube and Bates-
break off in to pairs to look around the Picture Gallery.
MR WESTON
MISS BATES Now Enscombe is fine- the rooms are
(to Jane) large- but there is no collection
Do you not feel transported? I can such as this...
hardly believe that we remain in
England. I have never set my foot Emma and Harriet are looking at the pictures together. Emma
beyond the Abbey Mill. Once my dear glances at Mr Knightley and Jane, feeling jealous. Jane moves
father, your dear grandpapa, away, and Mr Knightley comes over to Emma and Harriet. Emma
ventured to Bath on a clerical expects he’s going to speak to her, but:
errand, and I was to accompany him,
but the night before his going I MR KNIGHTLEY
was struck down by fever and so I There is a fine prospect from the
did not go. He brought me back a south window, Miss Smith. May I
jet brooch as a memento- I have it escort you?
still. Bath I hear is a great
metropolis. Every face a stranger! Flushing with pleasure, Harriet follows him into the adjacent
But you know a great deal more of room. Emma stays where she is. She looks up at the vast
the world than I. You have been to panelled wall of pictures, all landscapes and seascapes,
Ireland, and to Weymouth. vistas of countries and places she has never seen. Lost in
(gesturing at a picture) thought, she moves down the hall, looking at each picture.
Now Jane. This is just how I fancy But then-
Mr Dixon. Exactly with this look.
Am I right? JANE FAIRFAX
Will you be so kind, when I am
JANE FAIRFAX missed, to say that I am gone home?
Quite wrong, my dear aunt. There is
no likeness at all. Emma turns in surprise. Jane looks stressed. The room has
emptied and they’re now alone.
She disengages and moves away to join Mr Knightley.
EMMA
MISS BATES Certainly, if you wish it; but you
Very odd! But one never does form a are not going to walk to Highbury
just idea of any body beforehand. alone?
One takes up a notion, and runs
away with it... A beat. Jane seems on the verge of disclosing something.
She realises that she’s alone and bustles off to join the EMMA (CONT’D)
Westons. Are you unwell?
Mrs Elton, standing with Mr Elton, sees Mr Woodhouse JANE FAIRFAX
approaching on his own, and says to her husband- (with rare directness)
Miss Woodhouse, we all know at
MRS ELTON times what it is to be wearied in
Here comes this dear old beau of spirits. Mine, I confess, are
mine, I protest! I like him exhausted.
excessively.
(MORE)
 91B. 92.

Again she seems on the verge of saying something more. But 113 INT. DONWELL ABBEY, SINGLE CUBE / HALL OF STATUES 113
she just curtseys and departs, leaving Emma mystified. - LATER - DAY

Miss Bates is now walking with her mother.

MISS BATES
Such treasures- so unlike anything-
behold, the continent has come to
us! Mother, if each could speak,
how silent we would be, how
fervidly we would listen! Such
wonders. One’s very spirit soars.
One feels a kind of- is not Mr.
Knightley kind to open up his great
house- and so very discerning, with
such an eye- magnificent specimen!
I am quite transported. I fancy
myself in an altogether different-
even to speak the names- France!
Italy! Prussia! It is too
thrilling. Such exotic delights.

Emma diverts her course to avoid Miss Bates, and comes face
to face with Frank Churchill. He’s looking very hot and
bothered.
FRANK CHURCHILL
Have I missed the party?

EMMA
Not at all. We are exploring the
house.
Frank Churchill mops his face and paces. He’s very cross.
FRANK CHURCHILL
I was detained by my aunt. A
nervous seizure, which lasted some
hours. Had I known how hot a ride I
should have, I believe I should not
have come at all.
EMMA
You will soon be cooler, if you sit
down.
FRANK CHURCHILL
As soon as I am cooler I shall go
back again! You will all be going
soon; the party is breaking up.
EMMA
You need refreshment. Some cold
beer perhaps.
 92A. 93.
EMMA (CONT'D)
She addresses this to a servant, who bows and withdraws. Emma Cannot you invent a few hardships
moves off. Frank, pacing, follows her. for yourself, and be contented to
stay?
FRANK CHURCHILL
As soon as my aunt gets well, I FRANK CHURCHILL
shall go abroad. I am tired of You are quite mistaken. I do not
doing nothing. I want a change. look upon myself as either
(she glances at him) prosperous or indulged. I am
I am serious, Miss Woodhouse, thwarted in every thing material. I
whatever your penetrating eyes may do not consider myself at all a
fancy. I am sick of England. I fortunate person.
would leave it tomorrow, if I
could. The servant reappears with a tankard of beer on a tray. Frank
downs it and then the servant discreetly withdraws.
EMMA
You are sick of prosperity and EMMA
indulgence. We are going to Box Hill tomorrow.
(MORE) It is not the Grand Tour, but it
will be something for a young man
so much in want of change.

The others are now returning, having completed their tour.

FRANK CHURCHILL
Well– if you wish me to stay, and
join the party, I will.
This is alarming. But Emma doesn’t have time to reply: Mr
Weston has spied his son, and already exclaiming-
MR WESTON
Frank! We had quite given you up!
Frank turns away, switching on a smile for his father.

114 EXT. BOX HILL CARRIAGE TURNOFF - MORNING 114

The carriages have arrived. The party is already fanning out
over the field, exploring: Mr and Mrs Elton, Miss Bates, Jane
Fairfax, Mr Knightley, Emma, Harriet, Mr Weston and Frank.
The servants go on ahead with the picnic.
MISS BATES
How very lovely, indeed. Is it not
very lovely, Jane?
But even as she says it, she’s batting away bugs.

115 EXT. BOX HILL - DAY 115

They’re all rather out of breath, walking up the hill. It is
very hot and muggy. Everyone is sweating.
 94. 95.

FRANK CHURCHILL (CONT'D)

115A EXT. BOX HILL - A LITTLE LATER - DAY 115A Ladies and gentlemen, I am ordered
by Miss Woodhouse to say- that she
A little later. Everyone is seated. Frank Churchill is lying desires to know what you are all
on his back with his ankles crossed and his hands behind his thinking of.
head. He turns to Emma, who is seated next to him.
The party looks at him. Miss Bates and Harriet smile
FRANK CHURCHILL nervously; Mr Weston, anxious as always to think the best of
How much I am obliged to you, for Frank, attempts a jolly laugh. But the others are po-faced.
telling me to come today! I had
quite determined to go away again. MISS BATES
(anxiously)
EMMA Oh dear. What we’re thinking of!
Yes, you were very cross. I was a
kinder friend than you deserved. MR KNIGHTLEY
(icy)
FRANK CHURCHILL Is Miss Woodhouse sure that she
Don’t say I was cross. I was would like to hear what we are all
fatigued. The heat overcame me. thinking of?
EMMA EMMA
It is hotter today. Oh- no, no, upon no account in the
world. It is the very last thing I
FRANK CHURCHILL would stand the brunt of just now.
Not to my feelings. I am perfectly
comfortable today. MRS ELTON
It is a sort of thing which I
EMMA should not have thought myself
You are comfortable because you are privileged to enquire into. As the
under command. chaperon of the party.
FRANK CHURCHILL MR ELTON
Your command? Yes. Very true, my love, very true- but
some ladies say anything. Better
Mr Knightley looks very sour at this comment. pass it off as a joke. Everybody
knows what is due to you.
Emma darts a pained look at Harriet, but Harriet doesn’t look
concerned. She’s making a daisy chain and is preoccupied. FRANK CHURCHILL
(to Emma)
EMMA It will not do. They are most of
(shortly) them affronted. I will attack them
I meant self-command. with more address.
(getting up on his knees)
She bats away a fly. His conversation is annoying her a bit: Ladies and gentlemen– I am ordered
she senses that he’s toying with her in some way, but she by Miss Woodhouse to say, that she
doesn’t know why. Frank Churchill senses her annoyance, waives her right of knowing what
lowers his voice mischievously, and rolls over: you may be thinking of, and only
requires something entertaining
FRANK CHURCHILL from each of you. She demands
Our companions are excessively either one thing very clever, or
stupid. What shall we do to rouse two things moderately cleve r, or
them? Any nonsense will serve. three things very dull indeed, and
(loudly, to the group) she engages to laugh heartily at
(MORE) them all.
 96. 97.

MR WESTON (CONT'D)
He is so preposterous that Emma can’t help but laugh. What two letters of the alphabet
are there, that express perfection?
MISS BATES
Oh! Very well, then I need not be EMMA
uneasy. ‘Three things very dull What two letters– express
indeed’. That will just do for me, perfection! I am sure I do not
you know. I shall be sure to say know!
three dull things as soon as I open
my mouth. Her eagerness to know the answer is feigned. She darts
another nervous glance at Miss Bates, feeling awful.
EMMA
Ah! Ma’am, but there may be a MISS BATES
difficulty. You will be limited to (to Mr Knightley, quietly)
number– only three at once! I must have made myself very
disagreeable, or she would not have
She had meant it lightly, gaily, in continuation of Frank said such a thing to an old friend.
Chu rchill’s outrageousness, but Miss Bates recoils as if she
had been slapped. Her eyes fill with tears. MR WESTON
Ah! You will never guess. You, I am
MISS BATES certain, you will never guess. I
Ah– well– to be sure– yes, I see will tell you. M and A. Em-ma. Do
what she means. I will try to hold you understand?
my tongue.
Frank laughs. But nobody else does. Emma feels dreadful: to
Emma is appalled at herself. But how can she patch it up? She be praised right after having been so cruel! She manages only
glances at Frank, but he has turned away, smothering a cruel a pained smile for Mr Weston. Miss Bates sniffs audibly.
smile in private satisfaction at Miss Bates’ shame.
MR KNIGHTLEY
MR WESTON (acidly)
(oblivious to the tension) Mr Weston has shown us how to play
I like your plan. Agreed, agreed. I this game, but also how to end it.
will do my best. I am making a Who can improve upon ‘perfection’?
conundrum. How will a conundrum
reckon? MRS ELTON
I protest I must be excused. I do
FRANK CHURCHILL not pretend to be a wit. I have a
Low, I am afraid, sir, very low, great deal of vivacity in my own
but we shall be indulgent, way, but I really must be allowed
especially to anyone who leads the to judge when to speak and when to
way. hold my tongue.

EMMA MR ELTON
(trying now to be kind) Shall we walk, Augusta?
No, no, it will not reckon low.
Come, sir. Pray, let us hear it. MRS ELTON
(getting up)
She glances at Harriet, seeking help, but Harriet is looking Most willingly. I really am tired
at Miss Bates, who is discreet ly wiping away tears. of exploring so long on one spot.

MR WESTON JANE FAIRFAX

I doubt it’s being very clever (to Miss Bates)
myself. It is too much a matter of Shall we join Mrs Elton, ma’am?
fact, but here it is.
(MORE)
 98. 99.

MISS BATES MR KNIGHTLEY

(thickly, through tears) They are blended, I acknowledge-
If you please, my dear. With all my
heart, I am quite ready. Emma knows what’s coming, and knows that she deserves it, but
she can’t help trying to divert him from his speech.
They leave together. Mr Knightley gets up too. He looks
disgusted. He stalks off. Now only Mr Weston, Frank, Emma, EMMA
and Harriet remain. Mr Weston smiles at them all. But the Oh, it’s so hot, and I’m so tired-
mood is spoiled. Nobody returns his smile.
MR KNIGHTLEY
(without having paused)
116 INT. EMMA’S CARRIAGE - LATER - DAY 116 -and, were she a woman of fortune,
I would not quarrel with you for
Emma has just settled herself in her carriage, ready to any liberties of manner. But she is
depart, when the door is wrenched open by Mr Knightley. poor! She has sunk from the
comforts she was born to; and, if
MR KNIGHTLEY she live to old age, she will
How could you be so unfeeling to probably sink more. She has seen
Miss Bates? you grow up from when her notice of
you was an honour. To have you now,
EMMA in thoughtless spirits, and the
It was not so very bad- pride of the moment, laugh at her,
humble her– and before her niece,
MR KNIGHTLEY too– and before others, many of
(without pausing) whom are entirely guided by your
How could you be so insolent to a treatment of her. It was badly done
woman of her character, age, and indeed!
situation?
Emma has welled up, but she is willing herself not to cry.
EMMA
I dare say she did not understand
me. 117 INT. EMMA’S CARRIAGE - LATER - DAY 117

MR KNIGHTLEY Emma is freely sobbing now, as the carriage rattles back

I assure you she did. She felt your towards Hartfield.
full meaning. She has talked of it
since.
118 OMITTED 118
EMMA
Oh! I know there is not a better
creature in the world- 119 INT. HARTFIELD, UPPER CORRIDOR WINDOW SEAT - LATER - DAY 119
MR KNIGHTLEY Emma is sitting in her window-seat, desolate. Mr Woodhouse
(talking over her) comes and sits down next to her. He offers her his
I wish you could have heard how she vinaigrette. She smiles weakly through her tears, but doesn’t
talked of it– with what candour and take it. A beat.
generosity.
EMMA
You must allow that what is good
and what is ridiculous are most
unfortunately blended in her.
 100. 100A.

EMMA MISS BATES

I have been unpardonably vain and How kind you are. You were kept
insufferably arrogant. I have been waiting at the door– I was quite
inconsiderate, and indelicate, and ashamed– but somewhere there was a
irrational, and unfeeling- little bustle- for it so happened
that we had not heard the knock,
MR WOODHOUSE and till you were on the stairs, we
(gently) did not know anybody was coming.
Emma. You are young.

120 EXT. MRS BATES’ ROOMS - DAY 120

Emma approaches Mrs Bates’ front door. She is holding a gift
basket full of produce.

120A INT. MRS BATES’ ROOMS - DAY 120A

Jane is playing Beethoven Sonata No23 ‘Apassionata’ on the
pianoforte. Miss Bates is standing by the window.

120B INT. MRS BATES’ ROOMS, STAIRWELL - DAY 120B

The sound of Jane Fairfax playing filters into the stairwell.
Emma climbs the stairs, but when she reaches the door she
doesn’t knock right away. She feels unbearably sad. She
starts to cry. Finally she works up her nerve to knock. The
playing stops at once.

121 INT. MRS BATES’ ROOMS - DAY 121

Emma waits in the doorway, still holding the basket.
Miss Bates shuts the interior door to the room where Jane is,
and says to Emma, apologetically,
MISS BATES
I am afraid Jane is not very well.
A dreadful headache, writing all
morning, such long letters. I said
my dear you will blind yourself!
EMMA
I am sorry to hear it, Miss Bates.
Please give her my good wishes.
 101. 102.

Emma offers the basket. Miss Bates takes it. 124 OMITTED 124
MISS BATES (CONT’D)
So very kind! But you are always 125 INT. RANDALLS DRAWING ROOM - A FEW DAYS LATER - DAY 125
kind, Miss Woodhouse.
Mrs. Weston, now nine months pregnant, is propped up on a day
It’s too awful. Emma is almost on the verge of tears again. bed. The door opens and Mr Weston ushers Emma in. He looks
worried. Mrs Weston reaches out to Emma.
122 INT. HARTFIELD GOLD DRAWING ROOM - DAY 122 EMMA
What has happened? What is the
Emma comes in and sees that Mr Knightley is with her father. news?
She can hardly meet his gaze.
She addresses the question to both of them. Mr Weston remains
MR WOODHOUSE in the doorway, hovering anxiously. He’s embarrassed and
How did you find them? Emma has doesn’t want to come in.
been to call on Mrs and Miss Bates,
Mr Knightley. She is always so MRS WESTON
attentive to them. Oh, Emma.
(helplessly)
Emma can hardly look at Mr Knightley. He rescues her by Mrs Churchill is dead.
changing the subject, a little abruptly.
EMMA
MR KNIGHTLEY Dead!
I am going to Brunswick Square for
the remainder of the season. She looks at Mr Weston, not understanding- why is the news
being delivered in this way? Mr Weston looks embarrassed
MR WOODHOUSE rather than mournful.
I do wish you would reconsider.
MR WESTON
EMMA We always thought her illness was
(hurt) invented.
Is not this a sudden scheme?
Emma still doesn’t understand. There has to be something
MR KNIGHTLEY else. She looks from Mr Weston to Mrs Weston, queryingly.
Yes– rather– no. I have been
thinking about it for some time. EMMA
(trying to laugh)
MR WOODHOUSE You frightened me! I thought you
We will miss you in the evenings. must have lost all your money.
Mr Knightley comes to Emma, takes her hand, and seems about MRS WESTON
to press it to his lips- but then he drops it and bows. Emma.
(looking very worried)
MR KNIGHTLEY Frank has been here this very
Goodbye, Emma. morning, on the most extraordinary
errand. It is impossible to express
our surprise. Frank and Jane
123 EXT. HARTFIELD - DAY 123 Fairfax are engaged!
It’s a blazing day in summer. EMMA
What?
 102A. 103.

She turns to Mr Weston. But he has turned away. He can’t look MRS WESTON
at her. There has been a solemn engagement
between them ever since October-
formed at Weymouth, and kept a
secret from everybody.
EMMA
What! Engaged to her all winter–
before either of them came to
Highbury?
MRS WESTON
Secretly engaged. Of course, had
his aunt known of it, she would
have cut him off. It has hurt me,
Emma, very much. It has hurt his
father equally.
EMMA
(suddenly)
He sent the pianoforte!
MR WESTON
He has confessed it.
MRS WESTON
(beat- awkwardly)
Emma. You must know it was our
darling wish-
But Emma puts her hand on Mrs Weston’s, silencing her.
EMMA
There was a period in the early
part of our acquaintance, when I
did like him, but I have really for
some time cared nothing for him.
You may believe me, Mrs Weston. He
has done me no harm.
Mr Weston looks inexpressibly relieved. He manages a smile.

126 INT. MRS GODDARD’S SCHOOL, HARRIET’S ROOM - LATER - DAY 126

Emma has come to visit Harriet. They are sitting on her bed.
EMMA
I am so very sorry, Harriet.
HARRIET
But why should you condole me? You
do not think I care about Mr Frank
Churchill!
 104. 105.

HARRIET (CONT'D)
EMMA No- I was thinking of a much more
(thrown) precious circumstance– of Mr
There was a time– and not very Knightley’s coming and asking me to
distant either– when you gave me dance, when Mr Elton would not
reason to understand that you did stand up with me. That was the
care about him. service.
HARRIET EMMA
Him! Never. Dear Miss Woodhouse, Good God.
how could you so mistake me? (beat- then, with dread)
And... have you any idea of Mr
EMMA Knightley’s returning your
(genuinely taken aback) affection?
Harriet! What do you mean?
HARRIET
HARRIET Yes, I must say that I have.
I should not have thought it (with gentle defiance)
possible that you could have He talks to me. Much more than he
misunderstood me! I know we agreed used to. He has shown sweetness,
never to name him– but considering an d kindness, and at Donwell he
how infinitely supe rior he is to took great pains to describe to me
everybody else, I could not have some particulars of the management
been supposed to mean any other of his tenant farms. We were
man. Mr Frank Churchill, indeed! interrupted, but before we were, he
That you should have been so seemed almost to be asking if my
mistaken is amazing! Had I not affections were engaged.
believed you entirely approved my
attachment, I should have EMMA
considered it too great a But is it not possible that he
presumption even to dare to think might have been alluding to Mr
of him. But you told me that more Martin– that he might have had Mr
wonderful things had happened; that Martin’s interest in view?
there had been matches of greater
disp arity- those were your very And all at once, Harriet realises.
words, Miss Woodhouse-
HARRIET
EMMA You think o f Mr Knightley for
Harriet! Let us understand each yourself.
other now, without the possibility
of farther mistake. Are you Emma is shocked to hear it put into words so simply.
speaking of- Mr Knightley?
EMMA
HARRIET Harriet-
Of course. I thought you knew.
Harriet finds her unbearable suddenly. She stands up.
EMMA
But the service Mr Churchill EMMA (CONT’D)
rendered you, in protecting you (more desperately)
from the gypsies- I do not flatter myself with any
idea of his attachment to me. I
HARRIET have received very recent proof of
Oh dear, no, it was not the his impartiality-
gypsies.
(MORE)
 106. 107.

EMMA (CONT'D)
HARRIET (then, to qualify)
I should never have presumed to With respect to Mr Churchill.
think of him but for you.
MR KNIGHTLEY
EMMA He is a disgrace to the name of
(even more desperately) man. And is he to be rewarded with
I know that he is the last man in that sweet young woman? Jane, Jane,
the world who would intentionally you will be a miserable creature!
give any woman the idea of his
feeling more for her than he really Emma is silent. She can’t bear to condole him about Jane.
does. If you believe he loves you- After a beat, Mr Knightley goes on, tightly-
HARRIET MR KNIGHTLEY (CONT’D)
I refused Mr Martin because of you. Everything turns out for his good.
Because of you, Miss Woodhouse- His aunt is in the way. His aunt
dies. He uses everybody ill– and
But she can’t manage any more. She runs out. The door slams, they are delighted to forgive him.
leaving Emma alone in Harriet’s room. He is a fortunate man indeed.
EMMA
127 EXT. HARTFIELD - NEARING SUNSET 127 You speak as if you envied him.
Emma is making her way back to Hartfield, slowly. She’s MR KNIGHTLEY
morose. She looks up, and sees, to her shock, Mr Knightley. And I do envy him, Emma. In one
respect he is the object of my
EMMA envy.
Mr Knightley!
Silence again, then-
He doesn’t speak. He seems a little paralysed. She is too.
MR KNIGHTLEY (CONT’D)
EMMA (CONT’D) You will not ask me why. You are
Have you heard the news? determined, I see, to have no
curiosity. You are wise– but I
MR KNIGHTLEY cannot be wise. Emma, I must tell
Miss Fairfax and Frank Churchill. you what you will not ask, though I
may wish it unsaid the next moment.
EMMA
I did not see it. But I seem to EMMA
have been doomed to blindness. Oh! Then do not speak it. Do not
speak it. Take a little time,
MR KNIGHTLEY consider, do not commit yourself.
(bursting out)
Time, my dearest Emma, time will He tears himself away, deeply agitated. A beat, then Emma
heal the wound. He will soon be takes a shaky breath and composes herself. Bravely:
gone. You will forget him.
EMMA (CONT’D)
EMMA I stopped you ungraciously just
(starting to cry) now, Mr Knightley. If you wish to
You are very kind– but you are speak to me as a friend, or to ask
mistaken. My blindness to what was my opinion– as a friend, I will
going on led me to act in a way hear wh atever you like.
that I must always be ashamed of;
but I have no other regret.
(MORE)
 108. 109.

MR KNIGHTLEY MR KNIGHTLEY
As a friend! Emma, that I fear is a Emma-
word–
(seizing her) EMMA
Tell me, Emma, have I no chance of (starting to cry again)
ever succeeding? My dearest Emma, And she believes that you may love
for dearest you will always be, my her too. You danced with her- you
dearest, most beloved Emma, tell me have praised her- and shown her
at once. Say No, if it is to be kindness- you took notice of her at
said. I cannot make speeches, Emma. Donwell, and spoke of farming- and
If I loved you less, I might be seemed on the verge of asking if
able to talk about it more. But you her affections were engaged-
know what I am. I have blamed you,
and lectured you, and you have MR KNIGHTLEY
borne it as no other woman in To Robert Martin! To Robert Martin!
England could have borne it. God (beat)
knows, I have been a very She told you this?
indifferent lover. But you
understand me. You understand my EMMA
feelings. I cannot break her heart again.

EMMA Mr Knightley, highly distressed, paces a bit. Then-

(shocked)
Mr Knightley, I- MR KNIGHTLEY
I shall call on Robert Martin this
She finds she can’t go on. She’s in shock. He takes her in very evening. I shall urge him to
his arms, tremblingly, unable to believe he’s touching her- put his suit to Miss Smith a second
time. He still loves her. I am
MR KNIGHTLEY certain that he does. He need only
Will you marry me? ask again- not by letter; in person-

Suddenly, shockingly, she gets a nosebleed. Without thinking, She touches his arm, silencing him.
he darts out a hand to staunch the blood- and she jerks her
head back, smearing blood- and she’s trying not to get blood EMMA
on her dress- and he’s fumbling for his handkerchief- No. I must do it. I must go.
EMMA
I- I cannot. 128 OMITTED 128
The smeared blood has given her a vampiric look.
129 EXT. ABBEY MILL LANE - DAY 129
MR KNIGHTLEY
Why not? Emma gets out of the carriage, lugging a gift basket, which
contains a dressed goose, fruit, nuts, bunches of lavender
EMMA and starts to make her way up the hill to the Martin’s farm.
Harriet. But then she stops, realising her mistake: she looks down at
the dressed goose in the basket, and then up at the flock of
MR KNIGHTLEY geese that are crowding the path ahead. But it’s too late to
Harriet? change plans. She sighs and walks on, to the stables.
EMMA
She is in love with you.
A beat. Mr Knightley laughs- not unkindly, but in disbelief.
 110-111. 110-111A.

130 EXT. ABBEY MILL STABLES - DAY 130 EMMA

I do suspect you had very great
Robert Martin watches Emma approach with astonishment. A amusement in tricking us all.
beat, neither of them really sure who is going to speak
first. Then: She steps around them and goes to continue walking.
EMMA Jane finds the courage to speak at last. She leaves Frank and
Mr Martin. I have a confession to hurries anxiously after Emma.
make.
(beat- haltingly) JANE FAIRFAX
I have caused you great suffering, Miss Woodhouse. I am so sorry. I
as I have also caused the suffering have not time for half of what I
of my friend- wish to say.
(correcting herself)
-my dearest friend. EMMA
You owe me no apologies.
A little later. Emma returns down the hill to the carriage.
Robert watches her go, then turns and looks at Emma’s gift JANE FAIRFAX
basket. He notices a roll of canvas, tied with string, that You are very kind, but I know what
has been inserted into the spray of lavender at one end. He my manners were to you. So cold and
crosses to it, pulls off the ribbon, and unrolls it. artificial! I had always a part to
act. It was a life of deceit. I
It’s Emma’s painting of Harriet, cut from the frame. know that I must have disgusted
you.

131 EXT. HIGHBURY LANE - DAY 131 Frank is hovering, just out of earshot. Emma glances at him.

Emma is walking down the road on foot. She’s alone. She comes EMMA
around a bend and sees Frank and Jane, both dressed in (thoughtfully)
mourning. They curtsey and bow automatically, but then they I think there is a little likeness
all hesitate. Nobody is sure who should speak first, or what between myself and Mr Churchill. If
they should say. Frank braves it: not in our dispositions, then
perhaps, in our destiny. We shall
FRANK CHURCHILL both marry people far, far better
Is it possible you had no than ourselves.
suspicion?
Jane is gratified by the compliment, but she doesn’t quite
EMMA understand Emma’s meaning.
Never the smallest, I assure you.
JANE FAIRFAX
FRANK CHURCHILL You have a secretive engagement?
I wish I had told you everything. I
was once very near. EMMA
If I had, Miss Fairfax, then be
EMMA assured: Frank Churchill should be
It is not now worth the regret. the very last to know.

She goes to keep walking. But Frank is still trying to Jane allows herself a little smile. Emma takes Jane’s hand
apologise. and presses it. For the first time in their acquaintance,
they both feel as if they might become friends.
FRANK CHURCHILL
What an impudent dog I have been.
How could I dare.
 112. 113.

132 INT. HARTFIELD, EMMA’S ROOM - DAY 132 133 INT. HARTFIELD GOLD DRAWING ROOM - NIGHT 133
Emma comes in to find Harriet waiting for her. The dynamic of Mr Woodhouse, Mr Knightley and Emma are all in their habitual
Harriet’s first arrival at Hartfield is entirely reversed: places, reading- except that Mr Knightley and Emma can’t
this time Emma is apprehensive, Harriet cool and controlled. concentrate, and keep stealing glances at one another.
EMMA MR WOODHOUSE
Harriet. (suddenly)
Do you feel a draught, Mr
HARRIET Knightley? About your knees?
Mr. Robert Martin has offered me
his hand. MR KNIGHTLEY
(beat) I cannot say that I do, sir.
I have accepted him.
MR WOODHOUSE
It’s unbelievably tense. Harriet is testing her. Ah. Pity.

EMMA But then Mr Knightley has an idea. Suddenly:

Then he is the most fortunate man
of my acquaintance. MR KNIGHTLEY
In fact- yes, sir. A chill draug ht.
But still Harriet doesn’t smile. A beat, then:
MR WOODHOUSE
EMMA (CONT’D) (instantly galvanised)
Harriet. A chill- the screen, the screen!
Bartholomew! Make haste!
But Harriet has something to say.
Bartholomew rushes to unfold it. But Mr Knightley has been
HARRIET cunning: Mr Woodhouse is now blocked from view. Mr Knightley
There is something else. I have had can reach over and take her hand.
a letter from my father. Now that I
have come of age, he has revealed EMMA
himself. He is a tradesman. In (in a whisper)
Bristol. He makes galoshes. He How can I ever leave him?
comes to Highbury next week on
purpose to meet with me. MR KNIGHTLEY
(also whispering)
It’s the final test: will Emma baulk at her now? But Emma He can remove with you to Donwell.
doesn’t flinch.
Mr Woodhouse is directing Bartholomew to the wi ndow to stuff
EMMA handkerchiefs into the cracks, observing anxiously to make
I hope that you will bring him to sure it’s done correctly. Emma and Mr Knightley are still
Hartfield. whispering.
Harriet’s eyes flood with tears. Emma is overcome. She EMMA
crosses the room to her, and hugs her tight. You know he never would. He could
not stand it.

MR KNIGHTLEY
Then I shall come here.
EMMA
You would quit the Abbey?
 113A. 114.

MR KNIGHTLEY EMMA
Yes. Live constantly with my father, in
no house of your own?
EMMA
Sacrifice your independence? MR KNIGHTLEY
Yes.
MR KNIGHTLEY
Yes. MR WOODHOUSE (O.S.)
How it is now, Mr Knightley?

MR KNIGHTLEY
(with his eyes on Emma)
It’s much better now.
And at last, they kiss.

134 OMITTED 134

 115.

135 OMITTED 135

135A INT. HIGHBURY PARISH CHURCH - A DAY IN MIDSUMMER 135A

There are considerably more people present than at the
Westons’ wedding nine months earlier. Harriet and Robert
Martin are there; so is Mrs Goddard and her gaggle of
schoolgirls. Isabella and John Knightley, overwhelmed by
children as always, fill the Woodhouse pew. Frank Churchill
and Jane Fairfax are sitting with the Westons. Mrs Weston has
a baby in her arms. Miss Bates sits with her mother. Mrs
Elton is in the front row. Mr Elton is waiting uncomfortably
to the side of the altar.
Mr Knightley is standing at the altar, nervous, facing front.
The bells start to peal, and the congregation rises.
Emma and Mr Woodhouse appear at the door of the church. Mr
Woodhouse is a little tearful. He sniffs. Emma turns to him,
anxious.
EMMA
Papa! Are you unwell?
MR WOODHOUSE
Unwell? What a ridiculous question.
They process down the aisle. Emma looks radiant, and even Mr
Woodhouse looks happy. Mr Knightley can’t help but turn to
sneak a glance at her.
Mrs Elton wants the last word. As Emma and Mr Woodhouse pass,
she turns around and says, to Miss Bates:
MRS ELTON
You know, I made that match myself.
Mr Knightley only has eyes for Emma. She joins him at the
altar, and wordlessly he reaches out and takes her hand.
The End