tries desperately to hide what proves his peripheral involvement in a tragic hit-and-run in New York. Secondary characters Eli Carson (Frank Ferguson, 1964–1969, episodes 18–507) Caring father of Elliot Carson. Carson never had a substantial storyline and usually served as a person people went to for advice and a doting grandfather to Elliot and Constance's newborn son Matthew. Married Maggie Riggs during the last months of the series. Dr. Bradley (Charles Irving, 1964, episodes 22-29) Doctor at the hospital, friend of Doctor Morton. Lied to protect Dr. Morton when Catherine Harrington died and nearly cost Dr. Rossi his career and reputation. Ted Dowell (Patrick Whyte, 1964–66, episodes 24-204) Leslie Harrington's lawyer and friend, who's also Martin Peyton's lawyer but eventually turns his practise over to Steven Cord. Grace Morton (Edith Atwater, 1964-1965, episodes 29–109) The mother of Claire Morton and wife of Doctor Robert Morton. Ada Jacks (Evelyn Scott, 1965–1969, episodes 36–514) The mother of Rita and owner of her own Tavern at the wharf. She grew up in the poor side of the town and often feels guilty for not raising Rita the right way when she was a teenager. Sharon Purcell (Dayna Ceder, 1965, episodes 36–41) A friend of Betty who lives in New York City. She spends her time seducing older rich men to get what she wants, which causes complications for Betty when a detective mistakes Betty for being the same kind of seducer. Calvin Hanley (Whit Bissell, 1965, episodes 38-48) Father of Elliot's murdererd wife Elizabeth and owner of the drugstore/iced cream parlor. Hates Elliot and was responsible for his son Paul giving testimony against Elliot. Knows more than he lets on about the truth surrounding his daughter's killer. Paul Hanley (Richard Evans, 1965, episodes 38–68) Brother of Elliot's murdered wife Elizabeth and a professor of English at Peyton College who bonds with Allison when she becomes a student in his Freshman English class. He is an enemy of Elliot, because as a child he gave false testimony which sent Elliot to jail for 18 years. Esther Choate (Erin O'Brien-Moore, 1965–1969, recurring from 50 to 507) Head Nurse at the hospital, initially antagonistic toward Dr. Rossi and coldly efficient, until she softens as she gets to know both Dr. Rossi and Betty. Reverend Jerry Bedford (Ted Hartley, 1965-1966, episodes 69-204). Returns to Peyton Place as the new minister, dates Betty Anderson for a time but