FEBRUARY 26, 1969 (EPISODE# 3,353)
Martha and Cookie discuss Ron's postponement of his wedding to Cookie. Cookie blames Mike for the delay, just as Louise blames Mike for Phil's near-fatal injuries. Laurie gets permission from Nancy to take a bus to an a weekend artist's retreat in Somerset. Laurie is disappointed that Cookie and Ron won't marry before she leaves, but Nancy assures Laurie that the wedding will take place. Nancy confides to Cookie that Louise is still spreading nasty rumors about Mike having an affair with Nicole Travis. Louise's latest "proof" is that she saw Mike buying an extravagant fur coat for Nicole. Nancy insists that Mike bought the coat for her as an anniversary present. Cookie suggests that since Louise has lost her husband, she wishes the same for Nancy. Nancy believes that Lydia Holliday is the one who fills Louise's mind with ugly gossip. Ron assures Cookie that they will marry as soon as he concludes business with Eric Barrington, but Cookie is frightened.

NOTE: The town of Somerset was later used as the setting on a spinoff of Edge's sister P&G soap ANOTHER WORLD.

FEBRUARY 27, 1969 (EPISODE# 3,354)
Nicole meets her father Ben Travis at the airport, as he arrives from Capitol City. Nicole wants to be included in Ben's meeting with Mike. Noting Nicole's obvious interest in Mike Karr, Ben insists it's all business...not social. However, Nicole manages to twist Ben around her finger and gets an invitation to go. Adam is dubious of Ben's intentions, especially since Phil was nearly killed before he could testify before the Crime Commission. Mike reminds Adam that Ben had wanted more security for Phil, but Mike had insisted on Phil's anonymity. Mike and Nancy enjoy an early anniversary celebration, since Mike may have to testify out of town in April. With Ben and Nicole on their way to the Karr's, Nancy is stunned when Mike gives her a remodeled kitchen for their anniversary, instead of the fur coat he bought at McGrath's.

Nicole: "Oh father, really. You think I'm dreadful, don't you? An unprincipled homewrecker."
Ben: (wryly) "Well, there have been time, Nicole, when you've displayed an unfortunate interest in other women's husbands."

NOTE: According to this script, Mike and Nancy have been married for ten years instead of six.

FEBRUARY 28, 1969 (EPISODE# 3,355)
Nancy recovers from the shock of not getting a fur coat, but doubt about Mike lingers on her face. Ben and Nicole arrive at the Karr's. Making small-talk, Mike tells them that Nancy isn't Laurie's biological mother, then discusses Laurie's bus-trip to Somerset. In private, Mike shows Ben a dossier that contains the names and addresses of every loan shark doctor in the U.S. Mike explains that the Justice Department will use the list fast and hard. Claiming that Washington is nothing but a long, slow sea of red-tape, which will allow plenty of time for the loan shark doctors to be tipped off, Ben tries to convince Mike to give him the list, instead. Mike acquiesces, but he refuses to give Travis the name or dossier for Monticello's doctor. Later, as the guests leave, Nancy helps Nicole into the luxurious fur coat that Louise said Mike bought for Nicole.

MARCH 3, 1969 (EPISODE# 3,356)
Back at the Hotel St. Anthony, Nicole continues questioning Ben about his business with Mike and the crime commission. Ben pointedly insinuates that Nicole's only interest in it all is Mike Karr. Furthermore, Ben suggests that Nicole enjoys playing "the other woman" since her ex-husband Duane left her for one. Nicole corrects him, stating that the game isn't about getting Mike Karr, but rather, battling with a worthy opponent like Nancy. Mike promises Nancy that he won't face the same danger Phil Capice did. Before her trip, Laurie announces that she plans to attend State University in the fall. Ben Travis meets with Eric Barrington, and then it's revealed that Travis is actually the head of the nationwide loan sharking cartel. Barrington warns Ben that Mike will have to killed, but Ben fears that Mike copied the list, which could be distributed if harm comes to him. Ben decides that all loan shark doctors must leave the country at once and be replaced with new ones. Those who will not comply will be eliminated. Barrington insists that Ben's plan will take too long, and they need time. Travis laughs that he'll stall Mike as long as it takes, and he'll use Mike's lovely daughter Laurie to do it!

Ben: "It was obvious from the day you met him [Mike] that you're interested in him."
Nicole: "Every girl needs a hobby."

MARCH 4, 1969 (EPISODE# 3,357)
Calvin warns Vivian to beware of Lydia, who gets everything she wants. Dr. Lacey finds no change in Phil's condition. Winston tells an appalled Louise that Mike investigated Lydia's nursing credentials. Louise rails that it's Mike's fault that Phil is nearly dead, and then suggests that Mike wants to finish the job. Winston volleys Louise's anger with the news that Lydia isn't actually a registered nurse. Louise counters by saying Dr. Lacey gave Lydia's work glowing reports, so everyone will just have to deal with her quirky personality. Calvin asks Lydia about Phil's condition. Lydia explains that Mike Karr convinced Phil to borrow money from loan sharks, then testify against them. Before Phil could tesitify, he was beaten into a coma. Calvin is shocked when Phil briefly opens his eyes. Lydia warns Calvin to forget about what they saw, arguing that Louise might try to move Phil to a hospital or rehab facility. Calvin understands Lydia's concerns and laughs that he'll never tell anyone.

MARCH 5, 1969 (EPISODE# 3,358)
Luncing with Cookie, Nancy discusses her apprehension about Mike and the fur coat he supposedly bought for Nicole. Cookie advises her sister to confront Mike, but Nancy refuses. Louise, walking into the restaurant, spots Nancy and Cookie, and sits down to join them. Louise serves a lot of catty subtext about Mike and Nancy's relationship, then remarks that Nancy's old coat isn't nearly as nice as the fur she's getting for her anniversary. Nicole introduces Ben to her business partner Susan Forbes. Nicole senses her father's nervous, distracted demeanor. Ben excuses himself and calls Barrington. Barrington assures Travis that their men are following Laurie Karr to Somerset.

MARCH 6, 1969 (EPISODE# 3,359)
Still suspicious of Ben Travis, Adam declares that he should accompany Mike to Washington. Mike insists that the fewer people who know about the loan shark ring, the safer they'll all be. Ron Christopher wants to see Barrington. Barrington tells Travis that the loan sharks found about Phil's testimony, after Lousie mentioned Phil's trip to loose-lipped Cookie, who told Ron. Travis hides in Barrington's bedroom while Ron asks Barrinton for time off to get married. Mike and Adam decide that Barrington trusts Ron-- especially since Ron managed to get the loan shark ledger copied and put back before it was missed. Barrington and Travis receive word that Laurie has been kidnapped and is cooperating quite nicely.

MARCH 7, 1969 (EPISODE# 3,360)
Mike and Nancy discuss Mike's devotion to the crime commission and the need to rid Monticello of its criminal element. Barrington makes a surprise appearance at the Karr home. Barrington flat-out confesses to Mike and Nancy that he is indeed a loan shark doctor...the one Mike is looking for. Barrington casually informs the couple that hitherto Mike will remain silent about everything he knows. Mike picks up the phone and dials for the police. As Barrington coolly lights a cigar, he informs the Karrs that his men have kidnapped Laurie and warns very unequivocaly that Laurie will die if Mike and Nancy don't follow his instructions to the letter.

MARCH 10, 1969 (EPISODE# 3,361)
As Barrington stuns Mike and Nancy with the news about Laurie, Ben Travis calls to tell Mike that their flight to Washington is scheduled for the tomorrow. With Barrington looming, Mike apologizes and cancels the trip. Ben plays along, feigning surprise. Nancy begs Barrington not to hurt Laurie, swearing that they'll do whatever Barrington wants. Barrington assures Nancy that if they cooperate completely, Laurie will not be harmed. However, if Mike and Nancy do betray him, Laurie will be murdered. Barrington explains that Laurie will remain a hostage until the organization is completely reorganized...maybe several weeks. Mike can't bear it, and tries to believe Barrington's bluffing. Then the phone rings, and Mike and Nancy receive word that Laurie never arrived at the artist's colony in Somerset. They realize Barrington's grim threats are real. Meanwhile, in a remote cabin, a frightened Laurie is held captive by hoods Earl and JoJo.

Barrington: (threatening Mike and Nancy) We'll return your daughter immediately right on your doorstep. Regrettably, she'll be dead. Killed quickly and mercifully...but dead.

MARCH 11, 1969 (EPISODE# 3,362)
After Barrington leaves, a tense Mike and Nancy fight about what to do. Nancy insists they do nothing and follow Barrington's demands without fail, but Mike wants to call Bill Marceau. Nancy is horrfied to learn from Mike that Adam already knows about the loan shark dossier. Ben Travis gloats over Nancy's fears for Laurie, and decides that evil stepmothers must be a fairly tale, since Nancy is obviously distraught over her step-daughter's kidnapping. Barrington contends it would have been easier to kill Mike and destroy the list, adding that now they have Laurie to deal with. Barrington wonders if perhaps it wouldn't be better to just kill Laurie now and be done with it. Thinking of his own daughter Nicole, Travis has a conscience about daughters and vows that Laurie will not be harmed in any way. He suggests that Barrington find a reliable couple to watch Laurie. Barrington knows a couple who would be perfect, a stripper named Mona West and her husband Barney. Mike and Nancy quarrel about whether or not they should tell Adam about Laurie's kidnapping. Mike is about to tell Adam, when Nancy convinces him otherwise. On the phone, Mike lies to Adam, saying that they incorrectly deciphered the code in the loan shark ledger, thus Barrington and the 39 other doctors are legitimate.

MARCH 12, 1969 (EPISODE# 3,363)
Barrington visits Mona and Barney West, who owed money to Frank Loomis, a loan shark sent up the river. Barrington offers to release the couple from their $9,000 debt, if they agree to watch Laurie. At the cabin, Laurie almost tricks JoJo into untying her hands, which she claims hurt very badly. Laurie attempts to get away, but she is caught and reprimanded. Facing physical harm if they refuse, the Wests agree to watch Laurie.

MARCH 13, 1969 (EPISODE# 3,364)
Nicole and Louise have a catty lunch. They discuss Mike Karr with Nicole practically worshipping him, while Louise sees him as someone who easily lures friends into mortal danger. Ron is terrified when Barrington reveals all everything about Mike and Ben's Washington trip. Later, Barrington and Travis decide to test Mike. Ben will visit the Karr house, and if Mike tries to tip him off about Laurie's kidnapping and Barrington's blackmail, they will order Mona and Barney to kill Laurie immediately!

MARCH 14, 1969 (EPISODE# 3,365)
Visibly worn and frustrated, a desperate Mike comes home from work after a day of avoiding Adam. Mike admits to Nancy that he spent most of his time in Fenwick Park, thinking and worrying about Laurie. Mike says that he can no longer think logically about the situation. His love and emotion for Laurie Ann overcome logic and reason. Nancy begs Mike not to tell anyone about Laurie's kidnapping, but Mike is still torn about whether or not to inform Adam and Bill. Ben Travis calls, insisting that he come over to discuss the canceled Washington trip. Nancy warns Mike not to even hint that something is amiss. Using a courtroom parallel, Nancy tells Mike that Travis is the jury, and it's Mike's job to convince Ben nothing's wrong. Mona and Barney arrive at the cabin and relieve Earl and JoJo. Mona is uncomfortable with the situation, and immediately feels sympathy for Laurie's plight. Laurie notices Mona's soft-touch, and playing for sympathy, cries that her wrists are sore from the tight ropes. She convinces Mona to loosen the ropes. As Barney comes through the door, arms full of groceries, Laurie makes a mad dash for freedom. Barney catches Laurie, then angrily chastises Mona for being stupid enough to loosen Laurie's hands. At the Karr home, Travis grills Mike about the sudden change in plans. Nancy, listening at the study door, is horrified when Mike states that he has a confession to make. As Mike begins to tell Travis the whole story, he notices a photograph of Laurie and Nancy on his desk. Mike continues saying he's compelled to admit that the loan shark doctor list is phony. All of the men on the list are legitimate businessmen. There's no proof whatsoever that any of them are involved with crime. Travis turns away from Mike, smiling, while at the cabin, a terrified Laurie cries helplessly.

MARCH 17, 1969 (EPISODE# 3,366)
Laurie's constant crying irritates Barney, who warns Mona to shut her up, or else he will. Sweetly, Mona tries to reason with Laurie, but it does no good. Laurie screams that Barney and Mona are no better than the kidnappers, and her father Mike Karr will see that they all rot in prison. Furious, Barney looms over Laurie with fists of rage. Mona barely stops him from striking Laurie. After a call from Bill, Mike and Nancy realize they had invited the Marceaus for dinner. Nancy admits that she won't be able to get through dinner without breaking down. Mike convinces her that she has no choice. Nancy wonders who told Barrington that Mike had the "doctor list," then realizes Mike should warn Ron about Barrington's criminal activity. Then, Nancy arrives at the unthinkable conclusion that Ron might be in cahoots with Barrington, which would devastate Nancy's sister Cookie. Mike is forced to admit that Ron stole the list from Barrington and is working in cooperation with the crime commission. When Martha and Bill arrive, Martha immediately notices Nancy's uneasiness. Mike lies that Laurie took an emergency trip to California, as she has to take a college entrance exam in Los Angeles. With talk of Laurie, Nancy bursts into tears and excuses herself from the room. Back at the cabin, Laurie talks sweetly to Barney, reminding him that he and Mona haven't really committed a crime. If they leave her tied up, though, they'll be kidnappers, too... and some kidnappers get the death penalty. Barney believes Laurie, and after extracting a promise that she won't try to escape, Barney removes the ropes from her hands.

Nancy: "Laurie Ann means a great deal to me. You never thought that-- it made any difference to me? That she's your daughter? Did you?"
Mike: "Of course not, darling."
Nancy: "Because in these ten years, Mike-- she's become mine. Completely-- my own child!"

MARCH 18, 1969 (EPISODE# 3,367)
Adam badgers Mike about giving up on the investigation into Eric Barrington's loan shark activity. Wearily, Mike insists that Barrington is legit... at least the ledger suggests he is. Adam cannot be swayed, reminding Mike that Ron overheard someone calling Barrington "doctor". Mike counters that Barrington is indeed a doctor; he has a PHD in philosophy. Despite Mike's unwavering position, Adam still isn't convinced. Liz Prentiss arrives for a private consultation with Mike. Liz tells Mike that she spoke with Ruth Tuttle, who's now living in Los Angeles. Liz says that Ruth received a postcard from Steve, postmarked Mexico. Since Steve obviously doesn't intend to ever return, Liz wants a divorce. Mike informs Liz that Steve must be gone for three years before she can divorce on grounds of desertion, and he suggests she file separation papers instead. Liz steadfastly refuses, and asks about a "quickie divorce"-- the kind of divorce people obtain in places like Reno, Nevada. Mike points out that in order to get those, a person has to establish residency first. Liz continues to badger him about a fast divorce. Mike, frustrated and distracted by the situation with Laurie, snaps at Liz, suggesting that she hire Adam or another attorney, because he doesn't have time to pamper her. In tears, Liz runs out of the office and bumps into Vic Lamont, the assistant DA who prosecuted Liz's step-mother Julie. Vic lends a sympathetic ear to Liz, offering to track down Steve for her so that they can work out a consensual divorce. Vic asks Liz out to dinner, admitting that he wanted to see her for a long time. When Liz wonders if she should accept advice from another attorney, Vic reveals that he's thinking about asking Mike Karr for a job in private practice. Adam comments on Mike's weary appearance, saying that Mike looks like the world has come to an end. Adam reminds Mike about his wonderful wife and daughter. Jean enters and tells Mike that a friend of Laurie called while Mike was with Liz. Mike becomes enraged, screaming that Jean was stupid to hold a call about Laurie. Adam is stunned by Mike's rage.

MARCH 19, 1969 (EPISODE# 3,368)
Lydia rearranges furniture in the Capice home and tells Calvin that she'll see to it that Louise becomes dependent on her. Calvin states that she could make Louise very happy by admitting that Phil briefly opened his eyes and may be coming out of the coma. Angry, Lydia warns Calvin that he must never tell anyone what he saw, adding that Louise might fire them and move Phil to a medical facility. When Louise sees the rearranged furniture, she immediately hates it, saying that they enjoy a status quo at Orchard Hill. Lydia responds that she was only thinking of Louise and trying to make Phil's room cheerier. Lydia's subtle guilt-trip manipulates Louise into agreeing she'll get used to it. Playing the concerned confidante, Lydia asks if Louise has seen Mike or Nicole. Louise, eager to gossip, admits that she had lunch with Nicole, and confides to Lydia that Nicole talked incessantly about her admiration for Mike. Lydia casually remarks that Nancy must know by now that Mike didn't buy the fur coat as a anniversary gift. Then, Lydia reminds Louise that Nancy called her a vicious liar. Lydia's cleverly subtle-yet-loaded remarks goad Louise into paying a call on Nancy. Winston catches Calvin going through Winston's dresser drawers and threatens to call the police. Calvin claims innocence, begging Winston not to involve the police. Winston agrees if Calvin promises to leave Orchard Hill immediately. When Calvin refuses, Winston goes to Louise and Lydia with accusations against Calvin. Louise doesn't believe that Calvin's a thief. Lydia slaps Calvin hard across the face, telling him that she won't work with a thief. But, Lydia manages to skillfully manipulate Louise by agreeing Calvin should be dismissed, even if he is indispensable to Phil's full recovery. Brimming with emotion for Phil, Louise declares Phil should have the best care, so she'll give Calvin another chance. Winston is stunned and infuriated that Lydia has manipulated Louise again.

MARCH 20, 1969 (EPISODE# 3,369)
Martha tells Cookie about Nancy's crying jag at dinner. They speculate about the cause, but Cookie attributes it to Laurie's absence. At the cabin, Laurie refuses to eat. Mona warns Laurie that Barney will get very mad, and she won't be able to protect Laurie from his wrath. Meanwhile, Barney meets with Barrington on a deserted road. Barrington gives Barney a handgun, encouraging him to use it on trespassers-- or Laurie if she tries to escape again. Later, Barrington confers with Ron, confessing that Mike has a list of loan shark doctors. Nervous, Ron asks if Barrington knows how Mike obtained the list. Barrington remarks that obviously there's an informer working against the operation. As Ron becomes more nervous that Barrington may be on to him, Barrington states that they ruled out Ron as the leak, since Ron doesn't access to the ledger or the fiber for such work. Barrington instructs Ron to visit the Karr's often and take notes about Mike and Nancy's behavior. Barney returns to the cabin with food. Seeing that Laurie still hasn't eaten, Barney aims the gun at her, threatening that Laurie will eat...or else...

Barrington: (on holding a gun to a victim's temple) "The touch of cold steel can be very inhibiting."

Barrington: "Isn't it strange, all this uproar about guns? Can't people see how useful they are?"

MARCH 21, 1969 (EPISODE# 3,370)
After dinner, Ron and Cookie visit Mike and Nancy. In the privacy of Mike's study, Ron begs Mike to tell him what's going on with Travis and the canceled D.C. trip. Mike avoids the issue. Ron pleads that he's between a rock and hard place since he has to spy on Mike for Barrington, and on Barrington for Mike. Unable to stand Ron's badgering, Mike tells Ron that they were wrong-- the ledger contained names of legitimate businessmen. Shocked into disbelief, Ron concludes that Mike has been bought by Barrington, too. Cookie notes Nancy's sad, distracted behavior, but Nancy lies that she's just sad about Mike and Laurie both going away. Cookie speculates that the real reason for Nancy's unhappiness is the fact that Nancy won't confront Mike about Nicole's fur coat. At the cabin, Barney shows Mona the gun Barrington gave him. While Laurie pretends to sleep, Mona and Barney argue about keeping the gun. Barney puts it in a drawer and then lies down. Laurie bides her time until both Barney and Mona nod off. Quietly, Laurie slips out of bed and eases over to the drawer. She carefully removes the gun. Barney and Mona jolt awake, as Laurie whirls around, aiming the weapon at them.

Cookie: "We went to a restaurant called The Copper Kettle. It sounded very atmospheric, and it was."
Ron: "The dominant atmosphere was surliness..."

Mike: "Like a drink?"
Ron: (Wryly) "Am I going to need one?"

Note: The Copper Kettle reference might be an inside-joke, as the same restaurant was featured on Edge's sister P&G soap ANOTHER WORLD.

MARCH 24, 1969 (EPISODE #3,371)
Laurie, holding Barney and Mona at gunpoint, nervously moves toward the door. Trying to unchain the lock, Laurie is distracted long enough for Barney to lunge for the gun. He wrestles it out of Laurie's hand, and then with Mona's help, restrains Laurie. Barney laughs that Laurie couldn't have harmed them anyway... she forgot to take the safety off. Barney rails at Mona for being too soft with Laurie, stating Laurie's scared of him but not of her. Barney instructs Mona to hit Laurie-- hard, make her afraid. Mona approaches Laurie with trepidation. She doesn't want to hurt the frightened young woman. At the Karr house, Nancy and Cookie argue about Nicole, with Nancy insisting she doesn't believe Louise's ugly gossip. When Cookie presses about the fur coat, Nancy explains that Nicole merely modeled the coat for Mike, but he didn't actually buy it. Eventually, Nancy snaps under pressure and admits to Cookie something else is bothering her. Ron leaves Mike's study, and Cookie notes his grimness. On the way home, Cookie questions Ron about his meeting with Mike. Ron says that he feels like he's being pulled in too many directions and is about to knuckle under from the pressure. Suddenly, Ron stops the car and tells Cookie that more than anything, he wants to marry her. In fact, he'll marry her tonight, if she likes.

MARCH 25, 1969 (EPISODE# 3,372)
Barrington assures Ben Travis that Mona and Barney are taking good care of Laurie, and she's under control. Travis reminds him ominously that the couple may have to do more than just watch Laurie. Nicole daydreams about Mike and his relationship with Nancy. Nicole wonders why she's attracted to Mike and a boring town like Monticello. Travis arrives and has a heart-to-heart with Nicole about Mike. Travis states that a man with Mike's abilities is only hindered by a woman like Nancy. Furthermore, Travis encourages Nicole to go after Mike, if she really wants him. Nicole is startled by Travis' sudden change in attitude. When Ron says that he and Cookie will be married on April 11th, Barrington informs Ron that it will be a one-day affair, since there's plenty of work to be done with Mike Karr. Barrington eases Ron's curious gaze by admitting that Laurie Karr has been kidnapped and will not be returned until all the loan shark doctors are out of the country. Ron is stunned. Barrington further states that Ron will watch Karr's every move, and if he refuses, Barrington will tell everyone that Ron was responsible for Phil Capice's near-fatal beating!

Travis: "Your lifelong ambition, Nicole, is to love and be loved."

MARCH 26, 1969 (EPISODE# 3,373)
Cookie tells Nancy about the April 11th wedding to Ron. Nancy hesitantly informs her sister that they may not be able to marry at the Karr home. Cookie says it's okay; they'll marry at City Hall if they have to. All that matters is her marriage to Ron. Prompted by Lydia, Louise calls and invites herself to Nancy's house. Cookie goes back to police headquarters and gives Bill and Martha the wonderful news. Back at the Karr's, Louise brings up the subject of Mike and Nancy's anniversary, then insists on seeing the fur coat she knows Nancy didn't get. On to her game, Nancy snaps that Louise already knows Mike didn't buy her a fur coat. Nancy further states that Louise came over to gloat and see Nancy in agony. Louise assumes a defense, claiming that none of what Nancy says is true. But, Nancy tricks her into admitting that she did know Nicole got the coat instead. Enaraged, Nancy hurls accusations at Louise, stating that she could excuse Louise's behavior regarding Phil, but now Louise has simply turned into a vicious monster. Louise gasps in horror as Nancy declares their friendship to be over. Nancy orders Louise out of the house, screaming that she never wants to see Louise again!

MARCH 27, 1969 (EPISODE# 3,374)
Calvin sweet talks Vivian into preparing a sirloin steak for lunch. Lydia catches Calvin eating the steak and warns Vivian to watch her step. After Vivian leaves, Lydia chastises Calvin about the incident with Winston. She says that Calvin's a petty thief who wastes his time worrying about pennies when they're sitting on a pot of gold. Calvin again broaches the subject of Lydia's son, whom Calvin says also eats steak for lunch. Lydia angrily warns Calvin not to mention her son again. Lunching with Nicole, Louise insinuates that Mike bought Nicole her fur coat because they're having an affair. Regarding the comment as a personal affront, Nicole gets angry and insists that her father Ben Travis bought the coat after Mike declined it for Nancy's anniversary present. Louise presses Nicole about her feelings for Mike, but Nicole won't play Louise's game. Nicole states that her feelings for Mike are none of Louise's business, but adds that Mike might love her and not know it yet. After weeks with friends, Sara-Louise arrives home and encounters Calvin. Calvin disarms Sara-Louise with clever charm. Flustered and infatuated with an older man's attention, she attempts to act sophisticated, but Calvin realizes it's just an act. Calvin tells Sara-Louise about his unhappy childhood and petty thievery as a teenager, while she counters with stories about her childhood in Swiss boarding schools. The sexual tension between the two is apparent, as Sara-Louise wants to see the tattoo on Calvin's bicep. She is alternately frightened and curious.

Nicole:(responding to Louise's comment about Nicole and Mike's appearance in public) "I'm the last person in the world to worry about what other people think-- especially women."

Calvin: (to Sara-Louise) "What are you afraid of?"
Sara-Louise: "I'm not afraid. Just sensible."
Calvin: "You can't get many kicks being sensible."
Sara-Louise: "I don't want kicks all the time."
Calvin:(grinning) "I do."

Sara-Louise: "My history teacher says-- if you find out why Napolean met his Waterloo-- maybe you won't meet yours."
Calvin: "I don't get it."
Sara-Louise: "It's not much of a joke."
Calvin: "I know better jokes than that."
Sara-Louise: "I'd rather not hear them."

MARCH 28, 1969 (EPISODE# 3,375)
Nancy tells Mike about Ron and Cookie's impending wedding. However, they're still distracted with thoughts of Laurie Ann and fears that she hasn't contacted them. Ron stops by the Karr home and reveals to Mike that Barrington admitted kidnapping Laurie. Mike is deeply afraid for Laurie's safety, even if they do cooperate. Mike decides the only answer to their problem is to find Laurie themselves. Mike asks Ron to coax Laurie's location out of Barrington. Frightened, Ron argues that any questions about Laurie might tip off Barrington, who will kill all of them. Mike begs Ron to help in some way, but Ron steadfastly refuses. Barney holds Laurie at gunpoint and allows her to call home. Nancy and Mike are relieved and estatic to hear Laurie's voice. Laurie assures them that she's fine-- they haven't harmed her. Mike allows Ron to listen, as Laurie begs them to cooperate and get her home safely. Ron is visibly moved by Laurie's terrified, desperate pleas.

Barney: (about Mona's sympathy for Laurie) "Don't you use your head for anything but a peroxide bath?"

MARCH 31, 1969 (EPISODE # 3,376)
The Edge of Night pre-empted for special programming. Episode # 3,376 was pretaped for airing Tuesday, April 1, 1969.

APRIL 1, 1969 (EPISODE# 3,376)
Mike pleads with Ron to query Barrington regarding Laurie?s location. Ron insisted that Barrington would find questions suspicious. Mike suggested Ron ?appeal to Barrington?s ego.? Ron reluctantly agreed to give Mike?s suggestion a try. Embittered, Nancy blames Ron for Laurie?s kidnapping and fears that if Ron asks too many questions, Barrington might get nervous and harm Laurie. Mike assures Nancy it?s their only chance to get Laurie home safely. Suddenly, Nancy realizes Mike thinks Laurie may be killed even if they operate fully. At the shack, Laurie discusses her future with Mona, but speaks of it in the past tense. When Mona asks why, Laurie bluntly states they?ll never let go alive. Mona insists she and Barney won?t harm her, though Mona secretly shares Laurie?s fear.

APRIL 2, 1969 (EPISODE# 3,377)
Travis asks Barrington about Laurie?s condition and the West?s performance. Barrington says Laurie is well and Barney and Mona are performing their job quite capably. When Travis asks about Ron, though, Barrington is forced to admit he told Ron about Laurie?s kidnapping. Travis is furious, insisting that Ron cannot be trusted. Barrington replies he knows Ron inside-out, and Ron won?t betray them because if he does, everyone will find out Ron was responsible for Phil?s near-fatal beating. Ron and Cookie have a tense lunch. Cookie wonders if she?s pressured Ron into a quick marriage. Ron assures her that he loves her. When the conversation turns to Barrington, Ron becomes evasive. Ron and Cookie spot Liz Prentiss and Vic Lamont dining together. Liz recounts her marriage to Steve, claiming that it ended the day Steve testified at Julie Jamison?s trial. Liz says Steve confessed on the witness stand to having a deep resentment of Liz, her father Orin, and all they represent. She tells Vic she wants a very fast divorce. Vic questions her further, implying that Liz might want to rid herself of Steve because she has someone else on her mind. Liz states flatly that she?s not involved with anyone. Travis isn?t convinced of Ron?s loyalty and warns Barrington that if Ron starts asking questions about Laurie?s whereabouts, they?ll have to do something about him. Later, Ron visits Barrington and asks quite bluntly if Barrington will tell him where Laurie is.

NOTE: This episode was pretaped April 1, 1969.

APRIL 3, 1969 (EPISODE# 3,378)
Jean and Adam discuss Mike?s uncharacteristic moodiness. Adam theorizes it stems from the stagnating loan shark investigation, but Jean feels that Mike is under a more personal pressure. Mike visits Louise to suggest she find an interim president for Phil?s real estate firm. Angered, Louise snaps that Mike obviously believes Phil won?t recover. Mike counters by reminding Louise the company could suffer without someone at the helm. Irrational, Louise states that Mike destroyed Phil?s life and now wants to destroy his business, too. Furthermore, Louise brings up Lydia and Mike?s investigation of her. Mike tells Louise he only researched Lydia?s credentials at Winston?s request, but Louise refuses to listen, theorizing that Mike wants to sabotage Phil?s recovery. Mike gives up, and as he exits, Louise announces sternly that this goodbye should be a final one. When Sara-Louise comes home from a friend?s house, Louise laments her perpetual absences. Sara mentions meeting Calvin and adds that he?s quite attractive. Vic asks Adam for a job at Karr and Drake. Later, Adam mentions Vic?s job query. Mike enthusiastically tells Adam to hire Vic.

NOTE: This episode was pretaped April 2, 1969.

APRIL 4, 1969 (EPISODE# 3,379)
Sara-Louise admits that she?s been running away from the reality of Phil?s condition situation by staying with friends. Louise is delighted when Sara-Louise vows to spend more time at home. However, Louise doesn?t notice her daughter is obviously more interested in Calvin than Phil. Calvin affects a more serious tone with Sara-Louise sympathizing about Phil?s condition and assuring her he?s more than just a guy out for kicks. Lydia convinces Louise they need a comfortable recliner in Phil?s room, arguing it?s not just for her comfort, but Winston?s as well. Louise gives Lydia carte blanche to order whatever she likes for house and charge it to Louise?s account. Louise question Lydia about her family in California. Lydia stiffens, claiming that she doesn?t remember mentioning her family to Louise. Louise admits she overheard Calvin and Lydia discussing it. Lydia gives Louise a vague description of sister Rhoda. When Louise wants to know if Lydia has children, Lydia avoids the question by leaving room to call the department store. Alone with Phil, Louise tells her unconscious husband that she longer feels any sympathy for other people. In fact, she feels nothing but hatred for Mike Karr. During Louise?s emotional outburst of anger, Phil opens his eyes. Lydia catches Calvin asking Sara-Louise for a movie date. Lydia demands Calvin leave Sara-Louise alone. Calvin broods at her warning. Lydia returns to the sick room and is horrified to see Phil?s open eyes. Louise notes Lydia?s strange look, then turns to stare straight into Phil?s eyes.

NOTE: This episode was pretaped April 3, 1969.

APRIL 7, 1969 (EPISODE# 3,380)
Barrington tells Travis that Ron asked about Laurie?s location. Travis responds it?s easy to testify someone?s loyalty?just tell them what they want to know. Lunching with Ron, Mike admits he fears Laurie will be killed regardless of whether or not they cooperate, since Laurie can identify her captors. Ron states Barrington wasn?t happy being questioned about Laurie, but Ron doesn?t think he?s suspicious. Barney and Mona are going stir crazy at the shack, especially since Barrington has said he doesn?t see an immediate end to the situation. The two begin to argue, and Barney leaves to go get drunk. While Mona is preoccupied with her styling her hair, Laurie pulls at the telephone cord, which Barney conveniently left nearby. Ron visits Barrington and asks if Barrington is sure that Laurie?s well-hidden. Barrington confesses he?s keeping Laurie in a gardener?s shack off Interstate 56 near the town of Raintree. Ron promptly calls Mike with the news. Meanwhile, Barrington tells Travis the trap is set. Travis comments that if Ron falls into their trap?they?ll do what every hunter does to his prey.

NOTE: This episode was pre-taped April 4, 1969.

APRIL 8, 1969 (EPISODE# 3,381)
Barrington thinks Ron won?t fall into Travis? trap, but Travis says if Ron does, he will have to be killed. Barrington reveals the spot he described to Ron would have been a good one in which to keep Laurie. In fact, Barrington has a lodge near the gardener?s shack, and he suggests Travis accompany him there. Laurie gets the phone and calls the police, but Mona stops Laurie before she can reveal her identity. Mona and Laurie fight, with Mona insisting that Barney would harm Laurie if he knew what she did. At that moment, Barney walks in and hears part of the conversation. Fearing for Laurie?s safety, Mona tries to cover, but Laurie boldly admits she called the police. Furious, Barney vows Laurie will not only be bound and gagged?they might drug her, too. Mike reveals to Nancy that Ron got Laurie?s location out of Barrington. Mike and Ron find Raintree on a map, about 30 miles outside Monticello. Ron implores them to tell Bill, but Nancy bristles at the idea, crying that Laurie will be killed at the first sign of police. When Mike suggests the police can be dispatched quietly, Nancy argues that Barrington might have a crooked cop planted at police headquarters. Unable to deny her theory, Mike and Ron realize they must act alone.

NOTE: This episode pretaped April 7, 1969.

APRIL 9, 1969 (EPISODE# 3,382)
Louise was disappointed when Dr. Lacey insisted that Phil's open eyes are more of a reflex rather than a recovery. Lydia lied to Dr. Lacey about never having seen Phil's eyes open before. Cookie and Martha shooped for Cookie's wedding dress at McGrath's. Martha found Nicole to be charming. Nicole told Susan that Ben Travis usually gets what he wants. Lydia continued to exploit Louise's resentment against Mike, and then assured Louise that she's her friend. Calvin secretly met with Sara-Louise for a movie date. Sara realized that she's interested in Calvin, though she shouldn't be.

NOTE: This episode pretaped April 8, 1969.

APRIL 10, 1969 (EPISODE# 3,383)
Ron once again begs Mike to involve the police, but Mike cannot go against Nancy?s wishes. Ron reminds Mike they might get killed attempting to rescue Laurie, while Cookie waits for Ron at City Hall. Mike tells Ron he can drop out of the plan if he feels he must. Ron insists he?ll help Mike. Cookie confides to Nancy about meeting Nicole at McGrath?s with Martha. Cookie says Martha was impressed with Nicole, but Cookie reminds Nancy that Martha doesn?t know anything about Ms. Travis. Nancy is preoccupied, constantly glancing at the study where Mike and Ron are conferring. Overwhelmed with curiosity about their plans, Nancy heads for the study but faints at the door. Cookie is frantic about Nancy?s condition, though Nancy insists she?s simply exhausted from a sudden bout of insomnia. As Cookie and Ron leave, Mike and Nancy worry about what will happen tomorrow.

NOTE: This episode pretaped April 9, 1969.

APRIL 11, 1969 (EPISODE# 3,384)
As Mike and Ron leave for Raintree, Nancy worries about what will happen. On the way, Ron fears he and Mike might be shot by the kidnappers once they arrive at the gardener?s shack. Mike reveals he?s prepared for that?he?s carrying a gun. Back at the Karr home, Nancy agonizes over everything that?s happened to her family, Ron, Cookie, Phil and Louise. Nancy prays God will protect them all from Barrington?s evil. Martha stops by with homemade soup and tells Nancy that Ron appears more nervous than Cookie. Thinking about Ron?s quest in Raintree, Nancy understands why. Mike and Ron arrive at the road Barrington described then walk to the gardener?s shack. Cautiously, they enter the shack, but find it empty. The two leave dejectedly, unaware that they're in the frame of binoculars held by Barrington and Travis. Travis says Ron Christopher is as good as dead.

NOTE:Exterior (remote) scenes were shot of Mike, Ron, Barrington, and Travis at the gardener?s shack and lodge.

NOTE: This episode was pretaped April 10, 1969.

APRIL 14, 1969 (EPISODE# 3,385)

NOTE: This episode was pretaped April 11, 1969.

APRIL-DECEMBER 1969
Mike arrived at Ron?s hotel room, saving his life. Later, Mike and Vic figured out Laurie?s true location. With the police closing in, Barrington attempted to kill Laurie by locking her in an ambulance which was set to be firebombed. Vic rescued Laurie and locked Barrington in the ambulance. Barrington died in the explosion. Ingratiated by Vic's heroic gesture, Laurie found herself falling in love with him. Mike hired Vic as a junior law partner.

Cookie and Ron were happily married. However, shortly after their marriage, Cookie became violently possessive of Ron, developing an irrational obsession that other women wanted to steal him from her.

Senator Ben Travis' arrest for loan-sharking, kidnapping, and conspiracy to commit murder devastated Nicole. With no one to turn to, Nicole apologized to Mike and Nancy for her dreadful behavior and was grateful that the Karr's not only forgave her-- but befriended her, as well.

Lydia and Calvin's presence at Orchard Hill grew more ominous as they deliberately attempted to sabotage Phil's recovery. Louise was horrified when she eventually learned the extent of Lydia's treachery. Lydia admitted that she desperately needed money to care for her son, who suffered a serious and expensive ailment. Louise immediately fired Lydia and Calvin, and when Phil recovered from his injuries, Louise humbly accepted Mike and Nancy's forgiveness.

Nicole focused her attention on McGrath's dress shop. Nicole and business partner Susan Forbes hired Stephanie Martin, a recent widow with an austistic daughter named Debbie. Meanwhile, Nicole was disturbed by the arrival of ex-husband Dwayne Stewart and his new wife Pamela. Dwayne, expressing unhappiness with Pamela, told Nicole that he wanted to rekindle their relationship.

With Vic's assistance, Liz found husband Steve, who granted her a divorce. Liz's friendship with Vic was complicated by his attraction to Laurie. Liz turned her attention to Dr. Jim Fields, a handsome psychiatrist new to Monticello.

Nicole weathered romantic complications of her own. While trying to discourage ex-husband Dwayne's attention, Nicole found herself being pursued by Adam, who was intrigued by her cool disinterest. Preoccupied with work and Dwayne, Nicole didn't notice that her partner Susan had fallen deeply in love with Adam.

Meanwhile, Nicole suddenly became the target of a maniacal stalker, who sent taped messages of cryptic Shakespearean quotes and, donning a stocking, lurked outside McGrath's. Soon, however, the incidents turned violent. First Nicole received a box of chocolates laced with arsenic, followed by a parcel containing a poisonous spider. Nicole turned to the Karr's, Bill Marceau, and Adam Drake for help. The police were stymied by the stalker's identity, though they did have several suspects in mind: Susan Forbes (Nicole's partner, who loved Adam and resented his attraction to Nicole), Dwayne and Pamela Stewart, Nicole's ex-husband and his new wife, and Cookie Christopher, who feared Nicole might make a play for Ron.

As the month's passed, the stalker's actions grew more deadly. One night Nicole was standing in front of her apartment window, unaware that the stalker was watching her every move. When the doorbell rang, Nicole pulled down the shade and let in Nancy. During their conversation, Nancy positioned herself in front of the window. Seeing a woman's shadow, the stalker drew a gun and fired a shot. Nancy was felled by the bullet, but fortunately the shoulder injury wasn't serious. However, at McGrath's, another attempt on Nicole's life went awry, and a customer was killed instead!