"Bulldog Breed" 19 March 1978
A local smallholder, Frank Metcalfe, has spent all of his savings on new livestock. When the animals become seriously ill with brucellosis, the vets have their work cut out trying to save the day. Tristan returns from veterinary school in Edinburgh and confides in James that his exams may not have gone all that well. Tristan takes a dislike to Carmody and convinces James to let him see what real work feels like. The vets and the village doctor, who has set up practice next door to Skeldale, see an opportunity to teach Gobber Newhouse, a locally bully and wife-beater, a lesson when he steps on a rusty nail.
Characters: Richard Carmody, Mrs Hall, Frank Metcalfe, Mary Metcalfe, Harry (Dr.) Allinson, Gobber Newhouse, Mrs Tilson, Mr Dent, Eli Bagley.