The Happy Time

Bibi grows up in Ottawa with his parents Jacques and Susan and his roving grandfather Grandpere. Across the street are relatives like Uncle Louis and his wife Felice, whose worries about their daughter Yvonne color the family dynamic. The Bonnard household is lively, filled with affection and the promise of trouble to come.

Uncle Louis, an amiable drunkard, ignores Felice's concerns about their daughter Yvonne's future. He stands in contrast to Felice's hardworking nature and worry about stability. This fraught balance foreshadows deeper family tensions.

On Bibi's birthday, Jacques takes him to the theatre to see vaudeville acts where his father works as a violinist and conductor. During a magic act, Great Gaspari tries to kiss Mignonette, who storms offstage in anger. Jacques offers Mignonette a job as a maid, drawing Bibi’s curiosity toward the new arrival.

Mignonette accepts the maid position and becomes part of the Bonnard household. Bibi is fascinated by her presence but unsure how to interpret his feelings. The addition of an adult woman shifts the family dynamic in subtle, surprising ways.

Uncle Desmonde returns as the traveling salesman and takes the place of the recently deceased sales manager. He courts Mignonette, who is attracted yet longs for a settled life. Desmonde tempts her by showing a picture of the house he expects to inherit.

Peggy becomes jealous of Bibi's attention to Mignonette, complicating his relationships. Bibi brings La Vie Parisienne to school, and a dirty picture is found by the principal. Peggy falsely claims she saw Bibi draw it, escalating the conflict.

Principal Mr. Frye straps Bibi on the hand three times and warns it will continue daily until he confesses. The punishment shocks the Bonnard family and deepens concerns about Bibi's behavior. Bibi remains tight-lipped, adding tension to the situation.

When the Bonnards return home in triumph, they confront Mr. Frye and try to straighten out the situation, though it proves difficult. The adults' intervention helps restore some order and begin mending the rift with Peggy. The household starts to move past the incident.

Desmonde discovers that Mignonette has quit after believing his deception about the house. Bibi finally confesses that he is the guilty party behind the picture incident. Desmonde realizes Mignonette is different from his other relationships and begins to rethink his approach.

Desmonde finds Mignonette and they become engaged, recognizing a genuine connection beyond his past reputation. He commits to a real future rather than chasing casual affairs. Their engagement marks a turning point for both of them.

The adults explain Peggy's behavior to Bibi, clarifying misunderstandings and healing rifts. Bibi forgives Peggy and makes her his girl, turning a schoolyard crush into a lasting bond. Peggy's place in the Bonnard family is secured through renewed trust.

As the events unfold, Bibi's voice breaks, signaling puberty and growing maturity. The moment marks a transition from childhood mischief to blossoming adulthood amid family romance and loyalty. The Ottawa setting continues to frame his evolving sense of self.