S6E8 · The Crash

Complete story — includes the ending

In flashbacks to the Depression era, Don is viciously beaten by Abigail after one of the prostitutes living in the house initiates a sexual encounter with him. In the present, the creative team works through the weekend on the Chevy campaign. Jim Cutler hires a physician to inject the creative staff with a stimulant to give them inspiration and enhanced energy for 72 hours. The stimulant affects staffers in different ways, including Don, who stays at the office looking for an old advertisement whose images and message were inspired by the prostitute, and honing a pitch to renew his affair with Sylvia. Peggy and Stan share an intimate kiss after Stan breaks down about how his cousin was killed in the Vietnam War. While staying at Don's apartment alone, Sally interrupts a disheveled burglar who pretends to be their "Grandma Ida". When he finally comes down from his high, Don returns home and collapses upon being confronted by Megan, Betty and the police over the robbery. The next morning, Don promises to make new resolutions and informs Ted and Cutler that he will not be involved with Chevy and will only approve copy and design from the staff.