Ep 3. The Copper Kettle

As Time Goes By is a classic British sitcom that follows the lives of Jean Pargetter (Judi Dench) and Lionel Hardcastle (Geoffrey Palmer), two former lovers who are reunited after 38 years. In season 1 episode 3, titled "The Copper Kettle," Jean and Lionel's relationship continues to develop as they navigate various obstacles and challenges.

The episode opens with Jean and Lionel discussing their plans for the day. Lionel is set on a day of relaxation and reading, while Jean wants to go shopping and visit a local antiques fair. The two compromise and decide to spend the morning at the fair and the afternoon at home.

At the antiques fair, Jean and Lionel come across a beautiful copper kettle that Jean immediately falls in love with. However, the kettle is out of their price range. Undeterred, Jean tries to convince Lionel to buy the kettle for her, but Lionel refuses to spend that much money on such a frivolous purchase. Jean storms off in a huff, leaving Lionel to wander around the fair by himself.

Meanwhile, Jean's daughter Judith (Moira Brooker) and her husband Sandy (Philip Bretherton) are visiting from Canada. Judith is struggling with feelings of insecurity and jealousy towards her sister, Sandy's ex-wife, who is a successful author. Sandy encourages Judith to pursue her own passions and dreams, but she feels stuck and unfulfilled.

Back at the fair, Lionel bumps into an old friend and fellow ex-soldier, Harry (Frank Middlemass). Harry is a bit of a con artist and convinces Lionel to invest in a dodgy business opportunity. Lionel is hesitant, but Harry is very persuasive and he eventually agrees to invest.

Later, Jean and Lionel return home and Jean is still upset about the copper kettle. Lionel suggests they go out for a drink to cheer her up, but Jean is not in the mood. Instead, Lionel decides to brew some tea in the old kettle they have at home. As they sit and drink their tea, Lionel notices that the handle on the kettle is loose. He takes it apart to fix it and discovers a hidden compartment underneath. Inside, they find a small fortune in old coins and banknotes.

Jean is overjoyed and declares that they can now afford to buy the copper kettle at the fair. Lionel is hesitant, as he wants to use the money for something more practical, but Jean is insistent. They return to the fair and purchase the kettle, thrilled with their purchase.

The episode ends with Judith finding a renewed sense of purpose and Lionel realizing that sometimes it's okay to indulge in a little luxury. Jean and Lionel's relationship also continues to grow, as they learn to compromise and support each other through life's ups and downs.

Overall, "The Copper Kettle" is a heartwarming episode that showcases the charm and humor of As Time Goes By. The episode deals with themes of love, money, and the importance of following your dreams, all while providing plenty of laughs and touching moments.