Recap of Episode 18

Rocket blind into the dark

Season 2 Episode 18

Written by: Barry Pullman

Directed by: Duwayne Dunham

Original Air Date: December 15th, 1990

"Is there someplace you're going to or running from?"

On the highway, James takes the longest ride possible out of Twin Peaks on his hog, a scene that is accompanied by some twangy music. After what seems like days of riding, James ends up at Wallies Hideout only a few towns away from Twin Peaks. He sits at the bar next to a blonde woman who's having a drink alone. She immediately engages him in an odd conversation and asks, "is there someplace you're going to or running from?" James laughs and tells her she's got the wrong man and he's alright. The woman responds by saying, "men are always alright, right up until they pull the trigger...," James tells her he's just a quiet guy and compliments her jacket. Then she asks if he can help her fix her husband's car. She tells him her name is Evelyn Marsh and she lives up the road. James agrees, but wants to play the jukebox first. He takes a coin, plays a dramatic lovable tune and puts his head against the box while he broods. Evelyn watches him curiously. 

"That's Classified!"

At the Sheriff's station, Dale and Harry talk to Betty Briggs about the Major's disappearance. Betty tells them that Major Briggs has disappeared before, but the fact that Dale and he were in the woods at the time of his current disappearance is significant. She also tells them that Garland talks about the woods constantly. Dale asks her if the Major has been attempting to make contact with some "element" that exists in the woods as part of his work. Betty replies, "that's classified." However she does offer to return with some of the Major's notes that he left at his bedside. After she leaves, Dale says the light he saw in the woods wasn't just some work related occurrence. Dale thinks it's a powerful force in that exists in the woods. Then Andy and Hawk walk in with matching Ascot ties for the Milford's wedding gift. After Cooper gets a call from Gordon Cole, who loudly tells Dale he's got his full support during the FBI's investigation into him. Gordon also says that the FBI is sending, Dennis Bryson, another agent that Dale describes to Harry as "no nonsense", to look into the investigation. Gordon advises Dale to let a smile be his umbrella before hanging up. 

"What the hell are you talking about?"

Dale goes into the conference room to meet with Agent Roger Hardy for questioning. Dale insists that he's innocent of any wrong doing. Agent Hardy thinks Dale is making the cowardly choice, but Dale intently tells him that he's now focused on a bigger game. Roger asks what game. Dale proudly tells him the, "sound the wind makes through the pines, the senses of animals, what we fear in the dark and what lays beyond the darkness." Roger looks confused and snipes, "what the hell are you talking about?" Dale smiles and claims he talking about looking at the world with love. Roger warns him that the FBI is likely to charge him with drug trafficking. Dale says he can't control that. Roger says he's keeping Dale's suspension in place and he's going to recommend that Dale have a full psychological work up after cracking such a big case with Laura Palmer's murder. Dale seems unfazed and thanks him for his candor. Before walking out, Dale glances at his gun and FBI badge on the table.

"He has the cutest buns!"

Nadine approaches Donna in the hallway at the high school dressed in her cheerleader outfit. Donna asks if she's heard from James. Nadine asks if Donna means Eddie's friend with the motorcycle. Donna answers, "yes." Nadine tells her that he hasn't been around for a couple days. Then Nadine asks Donna if she's still going out with Mike. Donna says no and wonders why she asked. Nadine says there is some major chemistry going on with her and Mike. Then Mike happens to walk down the hall. He says hi to Donna, but ignores Nadine when she says hi to him. Nadine watches him walk down the hallway and then giggles to Donna, "he has the cutest buns!" Donna asks about her relationship with Big Ed. Nadine says that sometimes Eddie acts like he's old enough to be her father.

"Let's go out for a Malted."

Dick comes to the station with Little Nicky, who Dick tells Andy is his charge from Happy Helping Hands. Dick introduces Little Nicky to Andy and says they were hoping to take Lucy with them for a malted. Andy tells them that Lucy is busy helping with the Milford wedding. Little Nicky gets upset when Dick says they can't go without Lucy. Andy decides to step in and offers to take Dick and Nicky out with him for a malted. Andy asks Nicky if he'd like that. Little Nicky replies, "Oh boy!"

"The Dweller on the Threshold."

In Harry's office, Dale asks Hawk and Harry if either of them have ever heard of a place called the White Lodge. Hawk looks stern and asks where Dale heard of it. Dale responds it's the last thing the Major talked about before he disappeared. Hawk is quick to tell Dale that he might be fearless in this world, but Hawks warns, "there are other worlds." Hawk explains that his people believe the White Lodge is a place where the spirits that rule man and nature reside. He also says there is a legend of a shadow self of the White Lodge called the Black Lodge. Hawk tells Dale that the Black Lodge is a place where every spirit must pass through on the way to perfection and there you will meet your own shadow self. Hawk says his people call it, "the dweller on the threshold." However he cautions Dale that if you face the Black Lodge with imperfect courage it will utterly annihilate your soul. Dale seems fascinated by the information.

"Happy to meet you, Sheriff."

Lucy's temporary replacement buzzes Harry in his office to tell him that Dennis Bryson has arrived. Dale looks pleased and tells Harry that Dennis is one of the finest minds in the DEA. He assures Harry that they're in very good hands. Then Dennis walks in and pleasantly says, "Coop." He's dressed as a very tall woman and tells Dale, "it's a long story, but actually I prefer Denise if you don't mind." Dale looks confused, but goes along with him, as does Harry. Hawk nods at him, but refuses to shake his hand. Denise says it was a nice drive and he finds it hard to believe that Twin Peaks has any crime. Harry says unfortunately they do. Dale then tells Denise he believes he's being set up. Denise laughs that his recent experiences have taught him not to judge too quickly. Denise says he's going to check into his hotel and then get started on Dale's case. He asks Dale if the food is any good at The Great Northern. Dale tells him he's in for a real treat. Harry snarks under his breath, "so are they." Then Denise tells Dale he wants to catch up with him later and tell him all about his new life. Dale replies that he's anxious to hear about it. Denise then turns to Harry on his way out and flirts, "happy to meet you, Sheriff." Hawk smiles at him and after Denise leaves Hawks remarks, "that's a good color for him!" Dale just smiles amused.

Back at the high school, Nadine finds Mike working out on the leg press in the gym. She decides to show off in front of him by using the leg press next to him at the max weight of 600 lbs. Nadine begins to press away like it was nothing while Mike struggles next to her using less than half that weight. He looks at her confused and asks if there is something she wants as she stares at him. Nadine makes a flirty comment about him being too forward. Then the gym coach comes in and sees Nadine pressing like a mad woman. He looks impressed and asks if she's ever thought of going out for the wrestling team. Mike looks shocked. 

"Oh...Harry."

At Harry's house, he comes home to find Josie in his bed just waking up. Harry sweetly kisses her and they snuggle up in bed together. Then he tells her, "it's time." Harry says he needs to know the truth or he can't be with her. Josie groans softly, "oh...Harry," but then she tells him the truth is she used to work for a man in Hong Kong named Thomas Eckhert. Josie explains that Thomas took her off the street when she was 16. She claims that he was her father, master and lover. Josie tells Harry that Cousin Jonathan/Mr. Lee works for Eckhert and threatened to kill Harry if she didn't go back to Hong King with him. Josie goes on to say that she thinks Eckhert had Andrew Packard killed and she'd rather die than go back to Eckhert. Harry says she's with him now and he can protect her. Josie thinks Thomas will just kill them both, but Harry tries to reassure her by saying, "let him try." Josie looks into the distance uncertain.

"Catch Anything?"

Norma serves Agent Roger Hardy some pie at the Double R when Hank and Ernie stroll in. They both look beleaguered, particularly Ernie. Norma walks over to Ernie and asks, "catch anything?" Ernie answers without thinking, " I hope not." However then he realizes she was talking about hunting and gives her phony story about shooting a buck. Norma listens skeptically and then tells him that Vivian went back to Seattle. Norma also says she thinks Ernie should go there to. After Hank brings Ernie some food. Ernie tells him that Vivian went home. Hank thinks it's better for their business that way.

"Uncle Andy went funny boom boom."

At the diner counter, Norma brings Little Nicky a chocolate malted and pie for Andy and Dick. Nicky wonders how much it costs, but Dick tells him not to worry about it. Nicky blows his whip cream in Dick's face, clearly upsetting him. Andy gets a subtle laugh and tells Nicky that, "Uncle Dick" isn't mad at him. Dick gets annoyed and asks in retort for, "Uncle Andy," to pass him a napkin. When Andy stands up to get it, Nicky spins his stool. When Andy sits back down he goes flying onto the floor. Andy gets upset. Dick laughs and notes to Little Nicky that, "Uncle Andy went funny boom boom."

"Sometimes riding at night, I punch off the headlights and roll on the throttle and just rocket blind into the dark." 

James takes a look at Evelyn's husband's car at her house. James sports a cozy sweater and tells her he thinks he can fix the car. Evelyn tells him that her husband, Jeffrey, loves the car and that he loves to have the most unique and beautiful toys. She claims her husband is that way about everything and she wonders if James feels the same way about his motorcycle. James says he loves the bike for where it can take him. Evelyn asks where he wants to go. James says it's not a place he wants to go to, it's a feeling. He looks into the distance and tells Evelyn that, "sometimes riding at night I punch off the headlights and roll on the throttle and just rocket blind into the dark." Evelyn smiles and offers to have him stay with her while he fixes Jeffrey's car. She also says she'd like the company while her husband is out of town on business. James agrees to stay.

"You're out Ben!"

At the Great Northern, Ben watches home movies in his office of when his father first opened the hotel. He laughs seeing himself and Jerry as young boys. Ben walks up to the screen saying,"now is the winter of our discontent." Then he kisses the images of his family on the screen while smoking a cigar and talking to himself. Hank walks in, sees the projector and asks, "stag party?" Ben is annoyed to see him and asks where he's been. Hank claims to have had a, "killer schedule." Ben recounts his recent trouble with Catherine, Leland and his being arrested for Laura's murder. Hank agrees that he's had a tough week. Ben then gets distracted talking about how arranging the furniture in a certain way could offer health benefits that are far reaching. Hank changes the subject and tells Ben there's been a "friendly takeover" at One Eyed Jacks and Ben is out. Hank also says he doesn't work for him anyone. Ben realizes that Jean Renault is involved and tells Hank he's dancing with the devil. Ben refuses to back down. Hank grabs him by the collar, says he's a mess and again insists, "Ben you're out!" Hank then leaves as Ben mockingly repeats Hank saying, "Ben you're out, you're out Ben!" Then he sits Indian style on his desk and makes figures with his hands on the screen through the projector's light. 

"The King must die!"

Dale opens mail from Windom Earle in his hotel room and discovers another chess move and a tape recording. Dale listens to the recording. On it, Windom jokes about how predictable Dale's last chess move was. Windom thinks Dale must be wondering what his next move will be. Windom notes that he's willing to make any moves necessary to win. Windom says he'll even sacrifice the Queen, because, as Windom puts it, "the King must die!" Dale appears rather alarmed by the recording. Later Cooper gets a call from Denise inviting him downstairs for the Milford wedding. After Dale makes a note to Diane to remind him to tell her about Agent Bryson.

"I found that wearing woman's clothes relaxed me."

Douglas Milford and Lana say their I do's at The Great Northern, despite Dwayne Milford objecting by saying Lana's a gold digger and Dougie has one foot in the grave already. Harry interjects and takes Dwayne outside for some air. Later during the reception, Dale joins Denise by the bar. Denise has Lana's bouquet of flowers with him and tells Dale he had an unfair advantage. He jokingly asks Dale, "how many of the other girls were varsity wide receivers?" Then Denise gets back to Dale's investigation and tells Dale he found cocaine residue in his car. However Denise kindly offers to help Dale clear his name. 

After Dale asks about Denise's recent life changes and wonders if it's okay to ask. Denise says he likes to talk about his new life. Then he explains that after wearing woman's clothes for a sting operation he was on with the DEA last year, he discovered that wearing woman's clothing relaxed him. Dale listens with respectful intent. Harry joins them and remarks how he had to restrain Mayor Milford. Then Dougie and Lana Milford dance over to them. Dougie dips Lana and tells Sheriff Truman to arrest her, because she stole his heart. Everyone smiles. Lana remarks, with an impressed smile, that Dale is the one who solved the Laura Palmer case. Then Dougie dances her back to the dancefloor.

"This cake is delicious!"

Nearby Dwayne Milford tells Pete that Dougie always had a weakness for woman, especially if they had jello in their walk. He says he was married to the same woman for half a century, but that's because he used his brain to think, not his garden hose. Pete just looks overwhelmed, especially when the The Log Lady comes over to tell him the cake is delicious. Pete then remarks that the music turned out pretty good. Dwayne thinks it might as well have been the death march. Meanwhile on the dancefloor, Audrey and Dale take a spin together while Harry chuckles watching Denise dance with Andy. 

"Happy Andrew?"

At the Packard's house, Josie goes to see Catherine. She tells Catherine that Andrew was killed by Thomas Eckhert and Catherine is in danger. Catherine has trouble believing that Josie cares about saving her after all the trouble she's already caused. Josie says she's got no one to turn to now and she's at Catherine's mercy. Catherine decides that from now on Josie will work for her as a maid and she tells Josie to move into the servants quarters. Then Catherine sternly warns Josie that if she disobeys her in any way she'll find Eckhert and feed Josie to him. After Catherine tells Josie what she wants for breakfast the next day and sends her off. Josie walks away and then, a very much alive, Andrew Packard walks into the room. Catherine smiles at him and asks, "Happy Andrew?" Andrew says yes. He thinks now Thomas will come looking for his one true love. Catherine looks pleased and notes, "We'll be waiting for him."

End of show!

It's so funny to me that all the stuff with Dougie and Dwayne Milford in this episode, truthfully scenes that for years I dismissed as fun fodder during rewatches, now, thanks to Mark Frost's book, The Secret History of Twin Peaks, has me fascinated and looking for clues in a whole new way. I really think there is something so brilliant about that. Mark Frost really took the mundane and turned it into an interesting mystery. Whether it truly means anything in the new episodes of Twin Peaks or not, Mark gave some of the sillier elements of season two a masterful overhaul. Bravo!

As for the episode itself, on a whole I would deem this a light episode without too much mystery afoot. However the introduction of Agent Denise Bryson certainly is a highlight. David Duchovny steals all the scenes he's in and offers a lot of fun. I hate to be picky, but the poor dialogue offered up in the James/Evelyn scenes due detract from some of the positive elements within this episode. Thankfully it does offer some laughs, even if they're not for the right reasons. Nadine and Mike are cute, even if they're a bit silly. To be fair, the Little Nicky stuff is pretty damn bad as well, but Dick and Andy are fun to watch and find a way to make it enjoyable. 

Andrew Packard's return from the grave is intriguing and I liked seeing Josie get a verbal whiplash from Catherine, especially after seeing Josie continue to play Harry for a fool. What is the truth about Josie? I think some of what she tells Harry in this episode about her past may be true, but since it seems to be a manipulative move on her part, who knows for sure. Plus we know she's lying about her own involvement in Andrew's boat explosion. My favorite mysterious aspect is probably the talk that Hawk and Cooper share in Harry's office about the White and Black Lodges. Hawk's words are pivotal. Watch below!

Recap of Episode 17  <----> Recap of Episode 19

Recap of Episode 17

A Dugpa or perhaps The Watcher in the Woods?

Season 2 Episode 17

Written by: Tricia Brock

Directed by: Tina Rathborne

Original Air Date: December 8th, 1990


Three Days Later

At the Palmer's house, Sarah refuses to take a sedative from Doc Hayward prior to Leland's funeral. She says she needs to be there for both Leland and Laura. Sarah sadly notes, "today I bury my husband, next to my only child." Dale Cooper sits with her and says that there are things dark and heinous in this world; things that are too horrible to tell your children about. He explains that Leland fell victim as a child to one of those things. Sarah concurs and thinks of her vision of Bob and his disgusting hair. Dale assures her that Bob is gone. Sarah replies, "so is everything I loved." Dale tries to comfort her by explaining that in Leland's last moments he was sorry and saw Laura. Dale believes that Laura forgave him and Leland died at peace. His words seem to soothe Sarah. Dale then says he'd be honored to drive her to the funeral. Sarah smiles, but then realizes she's missing an earring. She says, "Leland always found the other earring."

After the funeral, a reception is held at the Palmer's house with loads of food. Nadine stands against the wall and looks into her black patent leather shoes. She sees her own reflection. Nearby Hank piles a bunch of food on a plate and brings it to Sarah as she sits with Audrey and Eileen Hayward. Seeing Sarah is overwhelmed by the plate, Audrey takes it from her and Eileen notes that in times of trouble people come together. Meanwhile Donna walks up to Big Ed and talks about James. She wonders if two people in love could have caused all this trouble, thus James' need to leave town. Big Ed assures her that James will come back.

"Would you care to join me for an incredibly pleasant evening of night fishing?"

Major Briggs walks into the house and is greeted by Dr. Jacoby, who says the restorative powers of Honolua Bay helped him recover from his injuries. Harry and Dale stand close by. Major Briggs asks Dale what's next for him. Dale says he's got some vacation time saved up so Major Briggs asks, "would you care to join me for an incredibly pleasant evening of night fishing?" Dales replies, "aces!" Nearby Mayor Milford and his brother, Dougie, begin to argue. Meanwhile Nadine asks Big Ed in front of Donna if he can see her underwear in the reflection of her shoes. She wonders if boys are looking up her dress. Donna immediately looks down in surprise. Big Ed assures Nadine he can't see a thing. Over on the couch, Sarah shares with Audrey and Eileen a moment between Laura and Donna that they shared as children when they promised to be best friends forever. Sarah says she needs to remember all those moments. Right then, Dougie and Mayor Milford begin to fight so Ed and Harry have to pull them apart. 

"Harry, I'm really gonna miss this place."

Doc Hayward and Pete explain to Dale that the brothers Milford have had a long standing feud that might have started with a woman. However they say no one knows for sure. Then Pete explains that Dougie Milford runs the newspaper and he's engaged to be married to a "babe" who is still in her teens. Doc Hayward then recalls as Harry helps him remember the year, that in 1962, Dwayne ran for Mayor unopposed and Dougie Milford wrote an editorial against him in the paper. They all share a laugh at the memory. Dale listens with a smile and then says, "Harry, I'm really gonna miss this place." 

"Friendship is the foundation of any lasting relationship."

At the Great Northern, Dale packs his suitcase in his room when he gets a visit from Audrey. She asks when he's leaving. Dale says he's going fishing first and leaving after that. She looks sullen and remarks, "So this is it? You save my life then break my heart?" Dale once again explains his personal policy about getting involved with someone who was part of a case he's worked on. Audrey realizes that Dale must have been hurt very badly by someone. Dale corrects her and says someone got hurt by him. He explains that the woman he lost and loved died in his arms years ago, after a case he'd been working on with his old partner, Windom Earle. Dales explains that Windom went insane thereafter. Audrey is understanding and quotes Dale by saying, "friendship is the foundation of any lasting relationship." Then she tells him that one day she'll be grown up and on her own and he better watch out. Before leaving, Audrey tells Dale the only problem with him is that he's perfect.

At Leo and Shelly's house, Shelly watches as Bobby tries on Leo's business suit in preparation for his meeting with Ben Horne. She encourages him by saying he looks great. However Shelly looks sullen as she leans against Leo's wheelchair. Then she asks Bobby to take her out later. She wants to get all dressed up. Bobby replies that someone needs to watch Leo. He then says once his deal with Ben goes through they will be on easy street and he'll take her anywhere she wants to go. Bobby walks out and leaves Shelly looking depressed. 

"I ran out of tuna fish."

At the Sheriff's station, Harry finds Catherine waiting for him in his office. He's surprised to see her alive and asks where she's been the last two weeks. Catherine is dressed in hiking attire and tells Harry that she believes an angel saved her life. She explains to Harry how she ended up at the drying shed the night of the mill fire. Catherine claims that after she found herself alone in the woods and afraid. Harry listens intently as Catherine recounts being flooded with memories of her childhood. She says she ended up at her summer home in Pearl Lakes after walking for miles in the night. Catherine explains that she waited with a loaded gun by her side for whoever wanted to kill her to finish the job, while eating a can of tuna fish. Harry asks what made her come back. Catherine replies, "I ran out of tuna fish."

"Morals and manly behavior."

Dick Tremayne walks in the station as Lucy is standing on a ladder trying to change a light bulb. She asks what he's doing there so Dick climbs the ladder with her. Andy overhears and listens to their conversation. Hawk sees Dick and shakes his head before walking up to Andy. Dick drones on about how he's liking the idea of parenthood the more he thinks about it. He ignores Lucy as she struggles with the light bulb. Hawk encourages Andy to jump in so Andy walks over just as Dick is oddly trying to kiss or sniff (I'm not sure which, you decide) Lucy's stomach. Andy makes an announcement as he also climbs up the ladder to meet Lucy's face. Andy calmly declares that they should all be friends, because he remembers his mother always said she couldn't have fussing and fighting around her when she had a bun in the oven. Lucy is obviously charmed by Andy's rational approach. Then Andy puts his hand out for Dick to shake. After Andy returns to Hawk, who thinks Andy is crazy. Andy says he knows Lucy and she likes morals and manly behavior, but then he gets insecure and asks Hawk, "Do you think I went too far?"

"I'm honored beyond my ability to express myself." 

Dale walks into Harry's office to say goodbye before he goes to meet Major Briggs. Harry hands Dale a crumpled brown paper bag. Dale takes it and pulls out a hooked Green Butt Skunk. Harry explains that when steer fish are heading up stream all they can think about is sex, but a Green Butt Skunk breaks their concentration. Harry says he tied it himself, like his father taught him and his father's father taught him before that. Dale clearly loves it. Then Harry gives Dale an official bookhouse patch and says everyone agreed that Dale is one of them now. Dale is moved and humbly responds, "Harry, I'm honored beyond my ability to express myself." Harry puts his hand out and says if Dale ever needs them, the bookhouse boys will be there. After Dale walks into the lobby and begins to say his goodbyes to Hawk, Andy and Lucy, however he's interrupted by Special Agent Roger Hardy, a fellow agent of Dale's, and a Canadian Officer named Preston King. They two inform Dale that he's now suspended from the FBI. After Dale, Harry, Agent Hardy and Preston King convene in Harry's office. Dale knows what's happening and explains to Harry that rescuing Audrey from One Eyed Jacks was technically unlawful of him in the eyes of the FBI.

"School numbs my buns, how about you?"

Bobby waits impatiently outside of Ben's office to get a meeting, but he's rejected by Ben's receptionist. Audrey sees him and asks what he's doing there. Bobby asks why she's not in school to which Audrey replies, "School numbs my buns, how about you?" Bobby tells Audrey that he's trying to get a meeting with her father. Audrey knows he's up to something, but helps him out nonetheless and gets him in to see Ben. However Ben quickly has Bobby tossed out by his body guards. After Audrey stops the guards from kicking Bobby out of the hotel. Bobby asks how he can help her in return. Audrey suggests ice cream so Bobby asks, "Cup or cone?" Audrey replies, "Cone. I like to lick." 

Back at the station, Agent Hardy and Preston King question Dale about Jean Renault's disappearance. Officer King informs Dale that he was working on a sting operation at Jacks and claims Dale's inference allowed Jean to escape. Agent Hardy says Dale has to prove that he wasn't involved in the drug operation there and says the DEA is now looking into the situation. Then he forces Dale to turn in his badge and gun. After Agent Hardy excuses Dale so he can question Harry. However Harry doesn't want to cooperate. Harry says they need a subpoena to question him and tells them to, "stuff it!" Harry says Dale is the finest law man he's ever known and then advises them to see themselves out. 

"Corkscrew!"

At the high school, Doc Hayward and Big Ed talk to an astonished Assistant Principal about allowing Nadine to be enrolled back in high school. Later Nadine tries out for Cheer leading and does some amazing tumbling for the coaches. Then she screams, "corkscrew!" and literally tosses one of the jocks into the air. He screams and then lands on a nearby volleyball net. Meanwhile over at Shelly's place, Shelly ignores the telephone while brushing Leo's teeth. She assumes it's Bobby. When she finally answers, Shelly gives Bobby the cold shoulder. Then Shelly tells Bobby she wants a life more than money and she thinks they should put Leo in a home. While she's on the phone, Leo moves his wheelchair on his own.

"I'm Your Man!"

Norma removes her fancy table clothes at the diner while her mother watches. Norma is down in the dumps because she received a bad review from MT Wentz. Vivian ends up admitting to Norma that she is MT Wentz and says the diner is just not a good restaurant. Norma is upset and kicks her mother out of the diner and out of her life. After Vivian walks away, Norma breaks into tears. Meanwhile up at One Eyed Jacks, Ernie and Hank play with some of the girls as they walk into Blackie's old office. When the girls leave, Ernie tells Hank he doesn't want to steal Vivian's money and the men start to wrestle. Then Jean Renault walks in smoking a cigarette. Hank introduces Ernie to Jean and says Ernie is a wizard with numbers. Jean is happy to hear that, because he says One Eyed Jacks is having some cash flow issues. Ernie begins to sell himself and says he's definitely the man for the job. After Preston King walks in with a briefcase full of drugs. Jean insists that Ernie go do some gambling with Hank so Hank and Ernie leave. Once alone with Officer King, Jean tells him that he wants to put the last nail in Cooper's coffin. Preston explains that he's going to plant drugs in Cooper's car. Jean says he wants Cooper, "crucified." 

"Have you ever heard of the White Lodge?"

Harry is woken up at his house by strange noises outside. Then he sees a shadow pass across his window so he grabs his gun. When Harry opens the door, Josie is there and falls into his arms crying. They fall to the floor together and begin to passionately kiss. Meanwhile, Dale and Major Briggs talk in the woods while roasting marshmallows by their campfire. Cooper says he's been thinking a lot about Bob. Major Briggs says he has been thinking about it too. The Major thinks it's some men's fate to face great darkness. He thinks if they do so with fear, it leaves those men vulnerable. The Major also thinks Dale has been blessed with special gifts and asks if he's ever heard of the White Lodge. Dale says no. Right then, we see something is moving in the woods toward them. Dale excuses himself to "urinate in the open air" and says he wants to hear about the White Lodge when he returns. As Dale urinates against a tree, an owl hoots from a branch above him. Then a bright white light engulfs the area. Major Briggs looks up and sees a mysterious hooded figure amongst the trees. He screams for Cooper. Dale rushes to help him, but by the time he gets back Major Briggs is gone and the white light turns off like someone flipped a switch.

End of show!

It has been awhile since I watched this episode. Doing so with the intention of recapping for the blog, I was anticipating all the lighter, sillier moments. I didn't expect to feel sad. When we think of the Palmer family it's often Laura's pain and Leland's demise that is the focus. However Sarah was a victim too. She was the only one left standing and was mostly in the dark about the true nature of her household. Thinking of her loss and ultimate loneliness makes her first scene in this episode particularly heartbreaking to me. Also since this is the last we will see of Sarah Palmer for quite awhile, it also feels like a goodbye, like the end of something great. 

It should be noted that Agent Roger Hardy, who is played by Clarence Williams III, was also Peggy Lipton's costar in the 60's television show the Mod Squad. Unfortunately I can't say I like his character too much, nor do I care for Preston King. It was good to see Jean Renault return though. I always enjoy Michael Parks and any scenes with Ernie Niles is a fun bonus for me. 

Nadine's corkscrew scene is as humorous as it is ridiculous, as was her wondering about boys looking at her underwear in the reflection of her shoes. However after all these years of watching, I also find those scenes very endearing and of course I always laugh at them with love. It was also very nice to see Dr. Jacoby return as well as Bobby and Shelly, who hadn't been in much of the prior few episodes. 

It would seem that this episode was perhaps a big influence on Mark Frost when coming up with ideas for The Secret History of Twin Peaks. (Spoiler Alert) For those who have read the book, the final scene of this episode almost makes me wonder if the hooded figure might just be Major Briggs himself in some time loop. I might be geeking out a bit too much there, but I find that thought intriguing. Also who knew after years of watching that now hearing Doc Hayward and Dr. Jacoby discuss Dougie Milford running the town newspaper would end up feeling extra important? 

I think the most touching/sweet scene of the episode is when Harry gives Dale the Green Butt Skunk and bookhouse boy patch. I've always loved their friendship. Watch below!

Recap of Episode 16  <----> Recap of Episode 18

Recap of Episode 16

You may think I've gone insane, but I promise I will kill again!

Season 2 Episode 16

Written by: Mark Frost, Harley Peyton & Robert Engels

Directed by: Tim Hunter

Original Air Date: December 1st, 1990

"Stand on the rim of the volcano, stand alone and do your dance."

After discovering Maddy's dead body, Albert, Cooper, Truman and Hawk take a walk in the woods and discuss the case. Albert shows them the letter O from under Maddy's nail and says there was white fur from a dead animal clutched in her right hand. Harry wants to contact Maddy's family, but Dale asks for 24 hours to finish his investigation. Albert pulls Cooper aside and tells him that he's the only one with the coordinates in his hardware to find the killer. Albert takes Cooper by the shoulders and says, "Stand on the rim of the volcano, stand alone and do your dance." He advises Dale to take whatever vision quest he has to. Then Albert walks away. Cooper sighs and says he doesn't know where to start. Hawk assures him that he's already on the path and he just has to follow it. 

"J'ai une âme solitaire"

James meets Donna at the Double R and Donna tells him that she could sing about, "last night." He gives her a diamond ring and says he thinks they should be together all the time. Donna thinks that sounds perfect. Nearby Vivian, Norma's mother, spits out her breakfast eggs and claims that she was afraid she'd run into a thumb tack. Norma gets offended and doesn't understand why she can't ever say anything nice. Vivian notes that the menus are very presentable. Meanwhile Andy sits at the counter as well and repeats the phrase, "J'ai une âme solitaire," to himself. Donna hears him and asks what he was saying. Donna asks if he heard it from Mrs. Tremond, but Andy explains it was in Harold's suicide note. Something seems to click in her mind so Donna takes off saying she needs to find Sheriff Truman. 

"Somebody has to stop Bob!"

Donna takes Andy and Dale Cooper to Mrs. Tremond's house and explains that she thinks Harold's suicide note is a message. When she knocks on Mrs. Tremond's door a woman Donna doesn't recognize answers. She then tells Donna that she's Mrs. Tremond. Donna insists to Dale that Mrs. Tremond was an older woman with a grandson. The woman then says she found a note in her mailbox for Donna. When Donna opens it she sees it's a page from Laura's diary. Dale tells her to read it. Donna starts to read out loud about a dream Laura describes having about being in a red room with a small man and old man sitting in a chair. Laura says she whispered the secret in the old man's ear. Then Laura says that somebody has to stop Bob and that Bob is only afraid of Mike. The next entry is dated before Laura dies. Laura states, "tonight is the night that I die." Donna gets teary eyed reading that Laura knew she had to die so Bob couldn't hurt her anymore. Dale realizes that he and Laura had the same dream and asks Andy to take Donna home.

"That milk will cool down on you, but it's getting warmer now."

Cooper goes to see Philip Gerard/Mike in his hotel room. Doc Hayward looms over imploring Cooper to give him his medication. Dale holds off and asks Mike to explain how he and Laura could have had the same dream. Mike explains breathlessly that he and Bob killed perfectly together. He describes it as appetite meeting satisfaction and says it was like creating a golden circle. Dale thinks of his ring and says he gave it to the Giant. Mike confirms that the Giant is real and says he can help Dale find Bob. Dales asks how. Mike says, "you must ask him first." He tells Dale to look inside himself before passing out. Dale walks out into the hallway and is clearly searching for answers. Then he sees the elderly waiter who is holding a tray with a glass of milk on it. He gives Dale the thumbs up and smiles, "that milk will cool down on you, but it's getting warmer now." After Dale goes to Ben's office while Truman, Albert and other officers search it. Dale stares at a stuffed fox on Ben's table looking perplexed. Harry shows him Ben's telephone records showing that Ben called Laura the night she died. Truman is convinced Ben is guilty. Albert then shows them Ben's blood test results.

"We've spend our entire adult lives lying to each other, why spoil it with the truth now?"

At the Sheriff's station, a maintenance man checks the sprinkler system. Andy approaches Lucy and wants to talk about her baby. The maintenance man listens as Lucy explains that it's a 50/50 proposition whether Andy or Dick is the father. Andy decides to call Dick. Lucy seems excited that the men could argue over her. When Dick gets on the phone Andy says they need to speak sternly, but then backs off and says that's if Dick's not too busy. Meanwhile down in his jail cell, Ben gets a visit from Catherine dressed as Mr. Tojamura. She holds the Ghost Wood contracts in her hands. Ben tries to stall by explaining that because he's in jail, he can't sign the contracts. She ends up taunting him by showing him her red toenails and then uses her own voice to say she's going to make his life a living hell. Ben gets excited that she came and begs Catherine to clear his name. She asks him to sign the contract. Ben agrees, signs and then remarks how brilliant her disguise was. He pleads with her to go tell the Sheriff she was with him the night Laura died. Catherine responds by saying, "We've spend our entire adult lives lying to each other, why spoil it with the truth now?" Then she walks out. Ben screams her name while manically cleaning the cell bars with his handkerchief. 

"James don't leave me!"

Donna goes to the Palmer's house wearing Laura's sunglasses. Leland/Bob stares at her intently. She gives him a tape that she and James made for Maddy and asks him to mail it to her. He stares more and asks about the glasses. Donna explains that they were Laura's. She lights up a cigarette and tells him that Laura had an extra secret diary that she gave to Harold Smith. Leland looks shocked and says he had no idea. Then the phone rings. Leland picks it up and speaks with Maddy's mother, Beth. Donna listens to his end of the conversation where he says he dropped Maddy off at the bus station and will call her back as soon as possible. He hangs up and tells Donna that Maddy never made it home. Donna looks very disturbed by the news. Leland/Bob then chews a piece of gum and fixes his tie in the mirror. We see Bob is looking back at him in the reflection. 

After Leland approaches Donna from behind and plays with her hair. She looks at photos of Laura on the mantel and whirls around surprised at the sensation of her hair moving. He hands her a glass of lemonade and assures Donna that Maddy will be okay. Then he decides to put on some music. As he looms over the record player, we see that Bob is there. Donna doesn't see his true face, but knows something is off. Leland starts dancing toward her and takes Donna's hands. He impulsively grabs her into an odd hug. Donna struggles to get free, but thankfully for her the doorbell rings. It's Harry who says there has been another murder and he needs Leland's help. Leland agrees to assist and leaves with Harry. Donna ends up walking to the lake in tears. Shortly after James rides up on his motorcycle. Donna tells him that Maddy is dead and it was the same killer as Laura. James gets upset and says, "this is no good!" He thinks nothing they do matters and decides to take off on his bike. Donna screams for him not to leave her, but he takes off anyway. 

"That gum you like is going to come back in style."

At the Roadhouse, Cooper waits with Albert at the bar. Ben sits in a booth nearby eating nuts. Then Harry walks in with Leland. Cooper walks up to Leland and Leland asks if they're there to catch the killer. Big Ed then strolls in, followed by Hawk, Bobby and Leo. Cooper has them all clear the room. Then he explains to the group that he believes the killer in his the room and says he needs a little magic to help identify the individual. Harry asks, "now what?" Dale says he isn't sure and thinks someone is missing. Right then Major Briggs arrives with then the elderly waiter. The waiter gives Dale a piece of gum. Leland smiles and tells the waiter that gum is his most favorite gum in the world. The waiter replies, "that gum you like is going to come back in style." Dale flashes to his dream and remembers that Laura whispered, "My father killed me," in his ear. Then the Giant appears with Dale's ring in his palm. As he disappears again, the ring falls to the floor. Dale puts the gum in his mouth and looks down. He sees his ring, picks it up and then tells Ben to come to the Sheriff station with him and to bring Leland Palmer as his attorney. Before walking out, Cooper turns to look at the waiter and gives him the thumbs up. 

"That's not Leland!"

When everyone arrives at the station, Dale says they should bring Ben down to interrogation. Leland asks if Ben is going to be charged. Dale says yes, but then whispers something to Harry when Leland walks away. When they all get to the interrogation room, they end up pushing Leland into the room instead and shut the door. Leland begins to yell and throw himself against the wall. The men look in at him through the door's window and Dale orders Ben to be released. Ben can't believe his eyes and questions, "Leland?" Hawk sharply responds, "that's not Leland!" Harry then asks how Dale knew Leland was the killer. Dale says Laura told him in a dream. Harry thinks they need stronger evidence than that. Dale asks if a full confession will do. After Dale, Harry, Albert and Hawk handcuff Leland and sit him in a chair. Dale asks if he killed Laura Palmer. Leland howls and then says that means yes. Hawk looks extremely concerned and keeps his gun pointed at him. Then Bob says that Leland has been a good vehicle, but now it's time to shuffle off to Buffalo. He claims Leland won't remember what he did until he leaves him and pulls the ripcord. Upon hearing him, Harry says that will do and they all leave the room.

"Got a light?"

Lucy takes Andy and Dick into the conference room at the station. She tells them that she's decided to keep her baby and it's not open to discussion. Dick looks irked and pulls out a cigarette attached to a giant cigarette holder. He asks Andy for a light and laughs when Andy pats himself down for one before firmly answering, "no." Dick then pulls out a lighter from his other hand. Lucy explains that she can't take the test to determine the father until after the baby is born and she wants their cooperation in the meantime. Dick's cigarette smoke drifts up to the fire alarm as he tells Lucy whatever she wants is fine with him.

"Look to the light."

Meanwhile outside the interrogation room, Hawk watches Leland from the door's window as Dale explains to Albert and Harry that Ben's blood type didn't match. Dale feels the answer was in front of him the whole time. Dale recounts all the clues from his dreams, including those from the Giant and concludes that the letters under the fingernails was Bob spelling his name. Dale thinks Leland killed Laura for writing about him in her diary and Maddy because she either reminded him of Laura or she found out about Bob. Harry asks if Dale thinks Leland's just crazy, because he thinks Bob can't be real. Before Dale can answer, Leland starts yelling from inside the room about how the magician longs to see, he'll catch them with his death bag and how he will kill again. 

Then the sprinklers go off throughout the station. Leland/Bob starts screaming and then begins banging his head against the door. Dale and Harry struggle to get the door open to stop him. When they finally do, Leland is badly injured. It appears he's now his true self, absent of Bob, and begins to remember his horrid actions. He sobs that he killed Laura and explains that he saw Bob in his dreams as child and he let him inside. Leland claims he didn't know when Bob was there and he couldn't remember when Bob was gone. Leland tells the men that "they" wanted Laura's soul, but Laura was strong and wouldn't let them in. Leland also admits to killing Teresa Banks and says "they" made him kill Laura. Leland asks God to have mercy on him and cries that he loves Laura with all his heart. Dale realizes that Leland is dying, so he offers words of comfort to Leland and tells him to look to the light. Leland cries that he sees the light and can also see Laura there waiting for him. Then he sadly dies in Dale's arms and the sprinklers finally turn off.

"The evil that men do."

Later Dale, Harry and Albert meet Major Briggs in the woods and they discuss the events. Harry thinks Leland was completely insane. Albert says that people saw Bob in visions and dreams, like Maddy and Sarah. Major Briggs astutely quotes Shakespeare by saying, "Gentlemen, there is more in heaven and earth than is dreamt of in our philosophy." Cooper smiles and says, "amen." Harry can't wrap his mind around it. He says he's seen a lot of strange things, but this is way off the map and he's having trouble believing. Dale asks if it's more comforting to think of a man raping and killing is own daughter. Harry answers no. Major Briggs asks if it matters, when the evil is that great, what you call it. Dale answers yes, because they have to stop it. Albert notes, "maybe that's all that Bob is, the evil that men do." Then Harry wonders if they had Bob and he got away, "where's Bob now?" Right then we cut to shot of something moving through the woods leading up to a bright light. Finally an owl appears against the backdrop of light and spreads it's wings to fly away.

End of show!

It appears Bob is the owl flying away for the time being thus concluding the storyline of who killed Laura Palmer. This episode is full of powerful moments and I think for the most part fulfills answering the show's core mystery. In hindsight maybe some elements are wrapped up a bit too neatly, for example Leland being absolved of responsibility for his behavior, which Fire Walk With Me contradicts quite a bit. However overall I think it's a terrific episode and has a satisfying end to Laura's murder. 

I remember when I first saw this episode on my old VHS set I was chilled by Dale remembering that Laura whispered, "my father killed me," in his ear. I also love how Harry, Albert, Major Briggs and Dale discuss Bob at the end with all their varying takes on the events. I can't help but wish that in the proceeding episodes the question of, "where is Bob?" was the focal point, given how poignant their collective conversation was. In that sense, this episode also marks the end of this chapter of Twin Peaks and you could argue the show could have ended right then. 

The scene with the most emotional impact is definitely Leland's death, in my opinion. I suppose it does help ease the sorrow of what he did to know that he was truly sorry for it in the end. All of the men seemed exhausted and haunted by the experience as well, which I think adds to the intensity. I'm not a big fan of "into the light" death scenes in television and film, but Twin Peaks did it well and certainly made Leland's final moments unforgettable. 

Watch Below!

Recap of Episode 15  <-----> Recap of Episode 17

An Evening With Mark Frost

Last night I had the pleasure of meeting Mark Frost at his book signing event in New York. It was an intimate gathering at the Barnes & Noble in Union Square and also the first stop on his book tour for The Secret History of Twin Peaks. Mark read from the book and also played clips from the audio version, before he began signing. Getting to speak with him and shake his hand was a thrill for me. I found him to be very charming, gracious and sincere. 

In addition to meeting Mark Frost, I got to meet @FrancineD @TwinPeaksUnwrap @DeerMeadowRadio and @ThatsOurWaldo. I love to talk with other fans and discuss the different ways that Twin Peaks inspires them to be creative. Everyone is expressing themselves in their medium of choice, but all unified in their devotion to Twin Peaks and I just love it! Twin Peaks fans really are some of the nicest people you'll ever meet. 

As for what's inside The Secret History of Twin Peaks, well...I'm not going to tell. Every Twin Peaks fan should appreciate the value of keeping a good secret. Plus I think each fan should discover the mystery for themselves. I will say this, about half way through the book I realized that things weren't as they seemed and there was likely a deeper mystery at work within the book's pages. After that, reading it became even more fun and I began to appreciate it on a whole different level. It's really an excellent book and filled with unique historical references, controversial figures and even suggests the possibility of alien life, all of which connect to Twin Peaks. 

Below are some clips that I snagged from the event. No spoilers here, I promise. I apologize for the shaky camera work. I was distracted and people were talking to me, but I tried to capture the highlights of Mark's reading nonetheless. Enjoy!

An Interview with Twin Peaks Unwrapped

Every day, once a day, give yourself a present!

        Ben Durant and Bryon Kozaczka from the Twin Peaks Unwrapped Podcast were gracious enough to answer 13 questions for me about their "blossoming" friendship, their terrific podcast and their favorite elements from Twin Peaks. These guys work hard to put out a show every week and as someone who has listened to them from the beginning, I've enjoyed seeing their Twin Peaks podcast evolution. They've had me on their show as a guest and they've been very supportive of this blog, which I really appreciate. I've also noticed that they are supportive of the Twin Peaks fan community in general, which made me want to know more about how they put their podcast together. 

       Since Ben and Bryon took the time to make a recording of their answers for me and after listening to it, I knew it should be heard as is. Plus there was no way I could write this out and keep the charm of their conversation in tact. With that in mind, I dared to venture into new territory and decided to make a photo collage type video of their interview. I apologize in advance if it appears crude or simplistic. This was my first attempt at video editing. However, it turned out to be a very fun project for me to tackle. I hope you enjoy it!

Watch Below!

Find Twin Peaks Unwrapped at: 

http://twinpeaksunwrapped.podbean.com

@TwinPeaksUnwrap

www.facebook.com/TwinPeaksUnwrapped

TwinPeaksUnwrapped@gmail.com

Youtube video "Twin Peaks Animated": 

https://youtu.be/ughJphyHJY8

B&M Baked Podcast, a weekly topic show,

http://bandmbakedpodcast.podbean.com

Recap of Episode 15

Maddy Ferguson

Season 2 Episode 15

Written by: Scott Frost

Directed by: Caleb Deschanel

Original Air date: November 17th, 1990

"Don't forget to sign us up for Glenn Miller night."

At the Palmer's house, Leland putts a large amount of golf balls in the living room. Then James and Donna knock on the door looking to say goodbye to Maddy. Leland tells them that he dropped Maddy off at the bus stop 20 minutes ago and Maddy was disappointed that they didn't come by last night. Donna and James giggle at the abundance of golf balls in the living room when Leland excuses himself to check on Sarah. Their laughter seems to stir him when he walks back downstairs. After he suggests that Donna and James write to Maddy. When they leave, Leland looks in the mirror and we see Bob looking back at him. Sarah calls from upstairs telling him to sign them up for Glenn Miller night at the country club. Then we see Leland take his golf club bag from the closet and Maddy's dead body is inside. He then takes her body out to his convertible and drives off.

"Lord, what's become of us?"

Over at the Sheriff's station, Ben uses his handkerchief to clean the bars of his jail cell. Then Jerry comes to see him and they end up sharing a brotherly hug. Jerry tells Ben he's going to handle his case personally and asks if Ben killed Laura. Ben scoffs at the question and says he was with Catherine the night Laura died. Jerry says that's unfortunate since Catherine is missing in action. Then Jerry claims he's depressed. He takes a good look at the jail cell's bunk beds. Jerry reminds Ben of a time when they were children and Louise Dombrowski, presumably their babysitter, but that's not clear, danced with a flashlight on the hook rug while they watched from their bunk beds. We get a flash of her dance and the brother's Horne in awe of her as children. Both men smile at the memory and Jerry ponders, "Lord, what's become of us?"

"God, how you must hate us white people!"

Lucy arrives at the station with her sister, Gwen, and Gwen's baby. Gwen talks incessantly as they run into Hawk. Gwen notes he must be, "that native person," that Lucy told her about. She asks if his name is eagle eye, but he quickly says Hawk. Then Gwen comments, "god, how you must hate us white people," because of what white people have done to his people. Hawk corrects her by saying some of his best friends are white people. 

"Will you be alright Leland?"

Harry and Dale walk through the hallway at The Great Northern as Dale makes a recording about the one armed man to Diane. Dale notes to Diane that the one armed man may have been a shaman in another time or place, but in their world he's a shoe salesman and lives among the shadows. As they round the corner they see Leland dancing in the lobby with a golf club while performing in front of a bunch of hotel guests. Dale thinks it would be best if Leland heard about Ben's arrest from Harry. Leland acts surprised when Harry tells him the news by saying he thought Jacques Renault was the killer. Dale asks if Leland will be alright and seems to find something off about him. Leland says the law will handle it and walks around the corner for some privacy. At first it appears he's crying, but then we see that he's actually laughing. Dale goes to check on him and tells Leland to let him know if he remembers anything unusual about Ben's behavior. Then Dale walks back to Harry who asks if everything's okay. Dale answers, "I'm not sure." After they leave, Leland dances again.

"Get yourself a better lawyer."

Doc Hayward prepares to take blood from Ben Horne in the Sheriff's interrogation room and then pricks Ben's finger. Ben yells out in pain, which seems to amuse Doc Hayward. Then Jerry demands that Dale and Harry either release Ben or charge him. Dale quickly shuts him up when he recounts Jerry's poor legal history by noting that Jerry graduated last in his class, only passed the bar on his third attempt and had his license revoked in the states of Illinois, Florida, Alaska and Massachusetts. Jerry defends himself by saying he's not on trial. Then Dale puts Laura's secret diary on the table and asks if Ben knows what it is. Ben looks at Jerry and replies, "a book." Dale tells him to take a closer look so Ben guesses a diary after putting on his glasses. Dale then reads a passage from the diary that Laura wrote saying one day she was going to tell the world about Ben Horne. Dale says a wild young girl like Laura might have caused things in Ben's life to get out of control. Ben gets upset and yells that Dale can't talk to him like that. Harry orders Ben to calm down. Then Jerry asks to speak with Ben alone. In private, Jerry advises Ben as his attorney, friend and brother to, "get yourself a better lawyer."

At Shelly's house, Bobby listens to a recording of Leo's conversation with Ben about starting the Mill fire. Then he makes a copy of the recording to send to Ben with a note saying they need to talk. Shelly calls for him from the other room and then comes walking into the kitchen annoyed with Leo's oatmeal all over her. She sees Bobby's envelope and asks what it is. Bobby says it's his meal ticket to moving into an executive suite. Shelly likes what she hears. Bobby tells her he's going to give her anything she wants. Shelly says she wants a full time nanny. Bobby suggests a french maid instead. Shelly giggles and they start making out. 

"$1000 Houston by 3 points"

At the Double R Diner, Norma is surprised to get a visit from her mother, Vivian. Her mother greets her, but then stops to take a quick taste of Toad's masked potatoes. She likes the taste and says Hank did a good job cooking. Then a man walks in and Vivian introduces him to Norma as her new husband, Ernie Niles, who is a financial analyst. Ernie says it's nice to see their family's good looks haven't isolated themselves to one generation. Norma looks displeased with his comment. Then Ernie steps away to take a phone call on a huge prehistoric cell phone. Her mother compliments Norma's figure and the diner. Norma looks serious and asks how long she's saying in town. Her mother answers a few days and asks what's wrong. Norma says there is a food critic coming to town and she's short on help.

Then Ernie comes back over saying he's got to get to the hotel and sets his newspaper on the counter. After Ernie and Vivian leave, Norma picks up the paper and sees that Ernie wrote $1000 Houston by 3 points on it. Later Hank returns to the diner and receives a cold reception from Norma. She yells at him for taking off for 48 hours. Vivian overhears and listens in from the kitchen. She hears Norma tell Hank not to sweet talk her, but then he does just that and ends up smoothing things over with her. Vivian then walks over and invites Hank and Norma out to diner later that night. Hank ultimately accepts despite Norma's attempts to avoid the situation.

"He's close."

One armed Mike abruptly wakes up in a hotel room at The Great Northern and groans, "he's close." He asks the nurse in his room to get him a glass of water. She leaves to get it for him and the police guard who was sitting outside walks into the room. Mike hits him on the head and knocks him out. He looks upset, says he's sorry to the guard and then escapes out the window.

Pete goes to see Harry in his office as Harry is bird watching a woodpecker from his window. Pete takes a look and says, "outstanding." Then Pete tells Harry that Josie is gone and simply left him a note. Harry says he knows about it and Pete doesn't have to explain. Pete gets choked up and says, "I loved her!" Harry says he loved her too and he stood by as she walked out with an Asian man. They end up comparing notes and realize that Mr. Lee/Cousin Jonathan are one in the same. Pete says he has a bad feeling and Harry conquers. Then Cooper walks in upset and tells Harry about the one armed man's escape. Harry and Dale leave to investigate. 

"She set me up!"

Out in the Sheriff's lobby, Andy walks in and sees Lucy holding Gwen's baby. He jumps to the wrong conclusion and passes out. Meanwhile Pete goes down to see Ben in his jail cell and taunts him with a tape recording for him made by Catherine. Pete laughs as Ben listens with intent as Catherine plays coy about being with Ben the night Laura Palmer died. Catherine tells him she will be his alibi if he sells the Mill and Ghost Wood Estates back to her. Pete loves it and laughs hardily. Ben seethes saying, "she set me up!" After Pete leaves Ben has a temper tantrum and tears apart his cell while screaming, "I'll get you, you bitch!"

"Do you play golf Agent Cooper?"

Leland/Bob drives haphazardly down the road and sings as Harry and Dale come upon him from the opposite direction. Leland almost hits them so they pull him over. When Harry and Dale walk up to the car Leland laughs the incident off, apologizes and says his mind wandered thinking of Ben. Then Leland says he remembered that the night Laura died he overheard Ben on the phone in his office talking about a,"dairy." Dale questions if Ben might have meant diary. Leland says that could be it. Harry gets a call on the radio from Lucy so Leland takes a moment alone with Dale to ask if he likes golf. Dale says he likes it's precision. Leland says he wants to show Dale his golf clubs and walks back around to the trunk. As Leland is taking a club out of the bag where Maddy's dead body is, Harry calls to Dale that they have to leave. Dale says he'll look at the clubs another time and takes off with Harry. After Leland gets back in his car, adjusts his rearview mirror and sees Bob smiling back at him.

"Just what the world needs, another sperm gun running around loose."

Hawk brings the one armed man to the Sheriff's station as Lucy, her sister Gwen and Andy are talking in the lobby. Gwen is telling Andy and Lucy a story about passing out in the grocery store and waking up to find herself covered in crushed fruit. Lucy holds an ice bag to Andy's head as Gwen continues to tell them about her first thoughts at seeing her son for the first time. Gwen says he was laid out on her chest and she thought to herself, "Just what the world needs, another sperm gun running around loose." Andy tries to whisper to Lucy about his sperm count problems, but Gwen continually interrupts with wisecracks. Both Andy and Lucy tell her to shut up so Gwen gets offended and walks off. Once alone, Andy tells Lucy that his sperm got better so he must be the father of her baby. Lucy's face falls knowing that might not be true.

"You two bit lumberjack!"

Meanwhile the one armed man sniffs Ben in the interogation room for hints of Bob. Dale, Harry and Jerry watch. Jerry tells Dale to have the one armed man stop looking at him like he's a dog biscuit. Mike groans, "Bob has been very close." Jerry says he doesn't know any Bob and demands that Harry either charge Ben or let him go. Harry decides to take control, officially charges Ben and orders Philip Gerard to be taken back to his hotel room. Ben mocks Jerry saying, "good move Jerr!" Then Ben calls Harry a, "two bit lumberjack!" Jerry holds him back and Dale asks to speak with Harry alone. In private, Dale says he doesn't think Ben killed Laura. Harry gets frustrated. He tells Dale that he's tired of all the hocus pocus and the dreams. Harry says he's got hard evidence against Ben and it's his responsibility to lock him up. Dale humbly backs off and walks away. 

"Savings and Loan."

Norma, Vivian, Hank and Ernie have dinner together at The Great Northern. The women excuse themselves to go to the ladies room. Once alone, Ernie asks Hank if he's going to tell Vivian he was in prison. It turns out Hank and Ernie served time together and Ernie was released 6 months before Hank. Ernie claims he's trying to only tell the truth these days and not gambling anymore. However he says that he's handling Vivian's investments and he wants a clean slate. Hank teases him about supposedly stealing from a church in the past, but Ernie snaps that it was a, "savings and loan," and swears he never stole from a church. When Norma and her mother return, Hank proposes a toast to Ernie and Vivian on their marriage and future. Then Hank crudely guzzles the last of his beer as Norma glares at him wide eyed.

"All I ever really wanted was for him to love me."

Dale talks to Diane in his hotel room saying he feels he's very close to solving the case, but the last few steps are always the darkest and most difficult. Then Audrey knocks on the door and asks if she can come in and talk. She notices Dale's bullet scar as he puts his shirt on. Then Audrey wants to know if Dale thinks Ben killed Laura. Dale says that's for a court to decide. Audrey asks if Ben was arrested, because of the information she gave Dale. He answers only in part. Audrey looks sad and softly says, "all I ever really wanted was for him to love me." Dale replies that he thinks Ben does love her. She thinks he's ashamed of her. Then she promises Dale that she never let anyone touch her at One Eyed Jacks, but he stops her and says he knows that already. Right then he gets an important phone call and after hanging up, he orders Audrey to go to her room and lock the door. After Dale meets up with Harry and a team of officers at a spot in the woods. Another dead body has been discovered wrapped in plastic and when the body is unwrapped, Harry and Dale see it's Maddy Ferguson. 

End of show!

Episode 15 offers a bit of lighter fare amongst some of the heaviest episodes of the series and I really like it. There's lots of funny dialogue. particularly with Lucy's sister, Gwen. Not too mention as a big Ernie Niles fan, I always love his introduction to the show. Toad's face when Vivian tastes his mashed potatoes is pretty priceless too. Of course I should mention how great Pete's laughter is when he plays Catherine's tape for Ben.

On a more serious note, the scene of Leland/Bob laughing after learning Ben was arrested is one of Ray Wise's best moments. I also love all the shots of Leland seeing Bob's reflection in the mirror. Dale and Harry's relationship is tested a bit. Dale clearly realized that he's missing something with his insight that Ben is not the true killer. I feel like this episode is where Ben truly gets his comeuppance though and his fall offers the viewer a lot of levity. Jerry Horne has some great moments. One of my personal favorites being when he advises Ben to get a better lawyer. However I think one of the most charming scenes is definitely when Ben and Jerry remember Louise Dombrowski's hook rug dance. 


Recap of Episode 14 < ----> Recap of Episode 16