The Onedin Line: Homecoming (BBC-1 3 Dec 1971, Bryan Marshall)

In Homecoming James has been away for three long months leaving Anne to set up their new home by herself. Anne is surprised when Michael Adams, who having been away for four years turns up. It’s clear that Adams and Anne have something of a history. James is not happy when he returns to discover Adams and Anne having dinner.

To get him away from Anne James employs Adams for the Charlotte Rhodes latest journey. Anne however has determined that she will be sailing on this voyage too.

There is a good appearance from the always dependable Bryan Marshall as Adams who once on board seems to be hiding something. He is – it turns out he believes he is a wanted man. Accused of murder of a fellow sailor on his first voyage. Thanks to fellow crewman George Bethel Adams learns that the  Captain entered the man’s death as an accident. It isn’t enough for Adams to know that he isn’t actually wanted he also wants Bethell to sign a document that says he and several other crew members were in fact responsible for the man’s death. Bethell of course will do no such thing and in the fight that ensues Bethell ends up swept overboard.

The changeable Elizabeth has decided that having married Albert Frazer she must tell him the truth that the baby she is carrying is not his but Daniel Fogarty’s. Thankfully for her she sees sense and in the end doesn’t say anything.

It’s good to see that James is genuinely jealous when Adams turns up on the scene too. The dynamic between Anne and James is truly excellent.

classic quote
“I said you deserved a better man than I. And you found him.”

production details
UK / BBC One / 1×50 minute episode / Broadcast 3 December 1971 at 9.20pm

Writer: Barry Thomas / Production Design: Moira Tait / Director: Peter Cregeen

Series: The Onedin Line Season 1 Episode 8

cast
Peter Gilmore as James
Anne Stallybrass as Anne
Philip Bond as Albert Frazer
Jessica Benton as Elizabeth Frazer
Howard Lang as Baines
Bryan Marshall as Michael Adams
Walter Sparrow as George Bethell
Gary Ward as Billy