| THE ADVENTURES OF SWISS FAMILY ROBINSON - BOOK 4 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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THE ADVENTURES
OF
SWISS FAMILY ROBINSON
BOOK 4 - THE PRINCESS FROM THE SEA
Original US Airdate: 15 - 17, September 1998
(each 75 minute episode was divided into 3 parts)
Screenplay by Anthony Read
Directed by Declan Eames
Guest Cast:
Miriama Smith (Princess Moya), Pripi Waretine (Medicine Man), Kaine Thompson (Prince Adu)
Ernst's Journal
If my calculations are correct we have now been marooned on our tropical island for almost five months. Battling against the forces of Mother Nature and at times even ourselves. I have been keeping the beacon ready to light at a moment's notice. In the event that the dear Lord answers our prayers and we see a sail on the horizon. The sail of a ship to rescue us and return us home to Boston. Though we dare not keep the fires burning for fear of attracting pirates or hostile natives. And at times it feels as if in reality there is little or no hope of rescue. Emily rarely helps with the chores and is a source of frustration to us all.
Christina and Billy appear more concerned about the chickens. Especially Christina's favourite, Henrietta, who constantly seems to escape from the animal enclosure and runs away into the forest.
…
My father continues to inspire the entire family. And I doubt if we would have survived any of our adventures without his strong leadership and wise council. Especially one particular adventure which started quite unexpectedly when my father was out walking. And noticed something which gave him an idea. Which he revealed after summoning us all to the tree house for a meeting.
…
Father and I decided not to tell other members of the family about the strange and ominous presence we felt at the entrance of the cave. There was no point in worrying them unduly. The danger - or so we thought - had passed. And we settled back into our routine. Gathering materials to build our stronghold up at the Lookout Point. No one could have ever imagined how often we would use it as a form of refuge. For the moment, we were all heartened to see the framework almost complete. Even Bruno helped. And much to everyone's surprise Emily worked. Though we were sure her endeavours were in no way altruistic and more out of concern for her own survival. As the last remaining wall and the door were fixed firmly in place I wondered how long we would remain as castaways. And though I was unaware of the irony at the time, if we would ever see another human being again.
…
The following morning I decided to investigate the cove and Billy's tale of a mermaid while everyone else was still asleep. Or at least I though they were asleep. But Billy was just as intrigued. As was Christina. And while Billy followed me, Christina followed Billy in the search for the mermaid. The entire notion was absurd. But when I first noticed Moya she did indeed appear to come from the sea. Whoever she was she was certainly not a mermaid. But one of the most beautiful creatures I had ever seen.
…
Throughout the following days Moya settled in as if she was a member of the family. And life on the island seemed idyllic. No one was aware of the danger that was so close at hand.
…
As difficult as it is to accept now, there was a time when I didn't care or even think about being rescued. The only thought on my mind was Moya.
…
My father was right. I was fascinated. We all were. Except Emily whom I suspect resented Moya's presence. I also wondered if somehow I was falling in love. And if Moya shared the same sentiment. Before long I was to have my answer.
…
I was pleased that Moya was reunited with Adu. As I watched them sail away I realised that - for all my infatuation - they truly loved each other and belonged together. As I belonged on the island with my family. To whom I could always turn for love, support and understanding. Which were always there throughout my life and the family's adventures on the island. But I will never forget Moya. The Princess from the Sea.

