Märtha Steps Up as Her Country's Advocate in 'Atlantic Crossing'

The fourth episode of Atlantic Crossing begins as the previous one did: in the White House pool. But this time, Roosevelt swims alone, and we hear his musings on how his life, and his control over it, have been changed. But as the monologue continues, as the President dresses, Missy assists with his calipers, and he’s helped to a podium, we realize that the personal and public personae blend as he addresses the press. It’s an election year, and America wants to hear that there will be no war. But it reminds us that Roosevelt’s finely tuned political instincts, despite his affection for Märtha and her family, may not bode well for Norway’s future.

Märtha, meanwhile, is unpacking at her new house with her children. Ambassador Morgenstierne has arranged for Märtha to speak at the Norwegian Seamen’s Church, and her fear of public speaking is in evidence. She paces nervously, and the Ambassador hands her a script with a few changes he’s made — a few essential improvements, he says, but it disconcerts her, as does the glowering, heavyset man in the second row.

Her nerves get the best of her before she’s barely read a word. As she and Ragni leave the church, the Ambassador presents her with a bouquet and asks her to set up a meeting with Roosevelt. Märtha demurs, telling him that the President has already been so generous to her and that she can’t get involved in politics. Morgenstierne is frustrated as she returns to the soothing world of furnishing her house, even telling the seamstress making the curtains that she wants them made in a length that may be unfashionable here but will work in her Norwegian house.