James Receives His Summons to War in 'All Creatures Great & Small'

As All Creatures Great & Small opens in Episode 5, Helen and James have only two days left together before he leaves for the RAF after months of waiting for his call-up papers. Helen turns off the radio when Churchill announces the Battle of Britain, happening now in the skies above, is Britain’s finest hour. James, concerned that Siegfried will not be able to cope alone, is trying to leave the practice in as best shape as possible and has a substantial list of tasks to work on, the most important of which is teaching Richard Carmody to drive, a vital skill for a veterinarian in Yorkshire. Naturally, Richard has been reading a book on the subject but can’t translate text to action, and they are running out of time.

Helen: “If this war’s taught us anything, it’s to grab on to the things you love, and try and cherish every moment.”

Richard and James are visiting Mrs. Pumphrey to inspect Tricki Woo’s rash. Mrs. Pumphrey claims it’s anxiety prompted by Uncle Herriot’s departure and sends Richard into the garden to look for her adopted dog Cedric. She tells James she does not want Richard to be her dogs’ veterinarian and will only let Siegfried attend them. This worries James, who is afraid that Siegfried will be unable to cope alone or with such a demand. James tells Richard off for not humoring Mrs. Humphrey to keep the peace and points out it’s unlikely he will be promoted to Uncle status with her dogs.