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With the family assembled in the...
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With the family assembled in the morning room, Sir Geoffrey Dillion has sorted out James' will and it's quite bleak. He died heavily in debt and Eaton Place will have to be sold. Though Georgina was his beneficiary, there is nothing to inherit. She can't even afford a proper wedding and she's not guaranteed that there'll even be a wedding. She hasn't heard from her intended in weeks. However, he arrives at Eaton Place, with his parent's blessing, his love for her unconditional. Georgina, forlorn, gaunt and emotionally spent, tells him he'd be happier without her as his wife and the young man is non-plussed. He is assured by Virginia that all will shake out and it does. Georgina and Robert are wed -- thanks to some quick thinking by Virginia. Edward and Daisy will be in the newlyweds service, Mrs. Bridges, Hudson and Ruby will operate a seaside resort and Rose will live in Dorset with Virginia and Viscount Bellamy, who will retire from politics. Tearful good-byes are exchanged and Rose is left all alone in the house to check to see that all is in order. She starts in the attic and works her way down and recalls the bittersweet times -- weddings, royal visits, marconigrams, telegrams, and the voices she has known and loved in this house since she was a girl. She emerges from 165 Eaton Place, looks back stolidly, with a tear running down her cheek. As she has told Hudson and now reflects herself, they all did have a 'good run.' -- even as furniture, goods and chattel are loaded on to a truck for auction.
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It's October 1929 and James Bellamy...
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It's October 1929 and James Bellamy returns to 165 Eaton Place after a two year absence in America. He's made a killing on the stock market and returns with wonderful gifts for everyone. In addition, he tells Georgina that he will pay for her wedding to Lord Stockbridge and for their honeymoon. Even Rose gets a bit of the itch to invest and asks James to help her invest the £1200 her late fiancé had left her. It all begins to go sour however when James learns too late of the Wall Street stock market crash and he loses everything. He had borrowed heavily to invest and now finds himself in debt beyond anything that is recoverable. Rose has also lost her nest egg and is now not only trapped in her job but feels that she has lost the last connection to her lost loved one. When Lord Bellamy hears that James invested Rose's money they have a frightful row, perhaps the worse they have ever had in their always difficult relationship. For James, there can be only one way out of the predicament he finds himself in.
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Robert, the Marquis of Stockbridge,...
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Robert, the Marquis of Stockbridge, has fallen in love with Georgina and proposes to her. She accepts him, but neither anticipates the hurdles they must face. Georgina's notoriety is not lost on Robert's parents, the Duke and Duchess of Buckminster, but the Duchess does invite Georgina to tea. The conversation is pleasant, but the Duchess is very firm on what's been planned. In the Victorian custom, Robert will travel around the world for a year and they will not see each other. If, upon his return, he still wants to marry her, he will have their consent. Robert rails against his mother, but Georgina pragmatically complies. Downstairs, Mrs. Bridges and Ruby have bitter words and Ruby leaves to work for a middle-class woman in suburban London. An agency sends a replacement for Ruby, a cheeky, disrespectful and lazy girl called Mabel. Mrs. Bridges can't manage her, but Ruby's lot has not improved -- her mistress is a nasty taskmaster and Ruby is not her servant, but her slave. Mrs. Bridges gets wind of her whereabouts and the two are reconciled -- with a greater appreciation of the other -- warts and all.
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A tipsy Georgina and her wayward...
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A tipsy Georgina and her wayward cohort try to amass various items on a scavenger hunt, arriving at Eaton Place in the wee hours and disrupting the servants. Tagging along is Lord Robert Stockbridge, sober and responsible son of the Duke and Duchess of Buckminster. The next step in the game is to drive to the country and Georgina insists they use Viscount Bellamy's car, in his absence. Edward knows Richard would not want the car used, especially if Edward is not driving, but Georgina ignores him and they troop off into pastoral Sussex. All at once, a man on a bicycle crosses the road and Georgina runs him down. The man dies a short time later and now an inquest must be held. Richard is furious at Edward, unfairly, for exercising poor judgment and Sir Geoffrey Dillion is summoned for yet another Bellamy crisis. It's entirely possible that Georgina could be tried for manslaughter. However, Lord Stockbridge followed Georgina in his own car and he testifies in Georgina's behalf. The verdict is accidental death, but Georgina is reprimanded for her reckless behavior. She is very grateful to Robert, whom she had berated the night before for being stuffy and an insufferable bore. Georgina realizes that she will have to mend her ways -- her days as a madcap flapper are at an end.
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Richard, James and Georgina travel to...
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Richard, James and Georgina travel to Scotland to stay at the Highlands home of a fellow peer. James is keen to to go hiking and fishing and with Georgina nearby, this is the perfect setting for him to express his deep feelings for her. She is bored and bad-tempered because of the bad weather, but James bides his time. The servants are appalled at the condition of the house -- it's dirty, there's no electricity or running water. Mr. McKay, the 'gillie', the man engaged to look after such matters, explains he was given short notice, otherwise the house would have been prepared for guests. Hudson becomes suspicious and discovers how Mr. McKay has been spending his time -- he's been selling salmon from a nearby stream and selling it for a handsome profit -- money made off the land of the absentee landlord. McKay confesses when Hudson confronts him, but Hudson decides not to go to the authorities. For the nonce, when James goes fishing, if he finds salmon, the matter will be forgotten. Meanwhile, Georgina tells James that she is no longer in love with him and that nothing will ever come of their relationship. He leaves the very next morning, and when the family return to Eaton Place, a baffled Richard and Georgina receive a note from him -- James has booked passage to go to New York to visit his sister, Elizabeth.
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It's June 1927 and Georgina has...
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It's June 1927 and Georgina has decided to take a turn acting in the movies which has become all the rage. She's introduced to movie producer Paul Marvin by her friend Lady Dorothy Hale and after a few drinks, he invites her to be in one of his films. After seeing an announcement in the paper, James lets her know in no uncertain terms that he's dead set set against it and tells her she's embarrassing herself and the household. Frederick the footman meanwhile is unhappy with his lot in life. It's not just that Edward has been made the under butler, it's that he's beginning to wonder if - and where - the grass might be greener. After flirting with Dorothy he is soon having an affair with her and accompanying her on outings with her friends. Lady Dorothy steps over the mark when as a joke she arranges for Frederick to play the part of her lover in the movie. It might have all blown over if it weren't for the fact that James and Lady Prudence decide to drop by the studio to see Georgina's debut. Written by garykmcd
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His age and duties creeping up on...
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His age and duties creeping up on him, Hudson is dismissive of his fatigue and fleeting chest pains. Upstairs, with Virginia in Scotland, Georgina takes on the role of hostess when an important French diplomat is slated to dine at Eaton Place. Feeling weak and breathless, Hudson keels over in his pantry and Dr. Foley is summoned at once. He confirms that Hudson has suffered a mild heart attack. He decrees bed rest and he's not to attend to any of his duties. Sharp words are exchanged between Frederick, Daisy and Edward as to who will serve in Hudson's stead. The Bellamys are divided on the issue as well -- James advocates for his soldier servant, Trooper Norton, but Richard and Georgina side with Edward, who acts as butler on the night of the dinner party. Hudson is to be sent to Southwold for an extended period to recover and a distraught Mrs. Bridges can't bear to see him leave nor can she stand the sight of anyone but Hudson at the head of the table in the servants' hall.
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It's May 1926 and the national...
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It's May 1926 and the national miners' strike becomes a general strike with all public services coming to a grinding halt. There's no sympathy for the strikers at 165 Eaton Place. Above stairs, James in particular sees this as a precursor to a Soviet-style revolution. Below stairs, Mr. Hudson echoes Winston Churchill's belief that of the miners are reds, something Ruby takes objection to as her uncle Len is a miner and she proclaims, he is no red. James volunteers to drive a municipal bus and Frederick goes along to try and keep the peace. Lady Prudence Fairfax offers free lodging to young men who have come down from Oxford to work as strike breakers. Mr. Hudson goes to work as a Special Constable and is incensed when he returns to find that Ruby's Uncle Len and another miner have stopped in to visit. When the strike is called off after 9 days, it's all seen as a waste by those involved.
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Though a great honor, Richard Bellamy...
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Though a great honor, Richard Bellamy was 'kicked upstairs' when he was elevated to the peerage. Anxious to return to an influential post in the government, Richard aspires to become Under Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs. Toward this end, he enlists Virginia to invite the very wealthy and politically connected, Sir Guy Paynter, to dine at Eaton Place. Virginia dislikes him intensely, but Richard asks that she suffer him and to play the political wife. Downstairs, Ruby has invited her male suitor, a gentlemen with whom she's corresponded via a personal advert, to Sunday tea in the servants' hall. He is respectable and well-spoken and is expected to pop the question. Upstairs, when Virginia spends too much time with Guy, the tabloids link the two romantically and Richard, despite his quest, ask that Virginia stop seeing him -- more for the sake of their marriage than his career. Virginia complies willingly, for reasons of her own and downstairs, Ruby's suitor is turned away by her because, he doesn't 'look at all like Rudolph Valentino,' as he originally claimed.
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Georgina has returned from America...
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Georgina has returned from America and brings news of Elizabeth to her father and Virginia. She's very keen to visit the great Wembley exhibit of 1924 and reports back to Virginia the most extraordinary news -- she did see Hudson there, with parlor maid, Lily. Virginia thinks nothing of it, but downstairs, the scuttlebutt is that Hudson has been seeing quite a bit of Lily. In fact, he's fallen deeply in love with her and, in the situation, Hudson is bound to inform Richard and Virginia of his intentions to marry her and gives notice. Richard can't imagine the household without Hudson, but there's nothing to be done. However, Lily tells Hudson that, though very fond of him, marriage is out of the question. When she marries, she wants a younger, more suitable man. Lily departs, but not without a note for a broken Hudson. Another crisis is dodged and all expect Hudson can and will rally and carry on, as always.
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While out alone one evening at a jazz...
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While out alone one evening at a jazz club, James meets his old girlfriend, Diana, Lady Newbury. She asks how he's faring and he asks about her husband, his old friend, Bunny, Lord Newbury. He's in Wales, she tells James, and life at Sommerby Park is very dreary for her. She remarks that, with Hazel gone, she wonders why he refuses her many invitations to visit them at their grand estate. As it happens, James is staying at a cottage in the country for the weekend and the pair conspire to meet there. James takes Edward, who meets Violet, Diana's new maid. Between the cozy setting and the rainy weather, James beds Diana after all of these years. Word gets to Lord Newbury and to Richard. Richard is furious at what his son has done and Bunny is disappointed in both James and his wife. When they meet at Eaton Place, Bunny, still a gentleman and rather old-fashioned tells James that he will grant Diana a divorce, on the condition that James and Diana marry. James tells Diana that he could never make her happy -- the war has forever changed him and he's not the man she knew and loved. The Newburys are reconciled, scandal is averted and James thinks upon what might have been.
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Master William Hamilton is off to...
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Master William Hamilton is off to boarding school and his stoic mother makes certain that he is well-prepared. Richard suggests their going abroad to divert Virginia. The very prim governess, Miss Treadwell, asks Virginia to make it clear to the staff that they adhere to her in the absence of the Viscount and her Ladyship. Before he leaves, the staff give the children an adorable dog. The children are delighted, but Miss Treadwell is annoyed. The pet will be a nuisance and will divert Miss Alice from her studies. Miss Treadwell is a relentless taskmaster and her behavior toward the staff is imperious. They resent her haughty ways and are horrified when Miss Treadwell demands that the dog be 'humanely put to sleep.' Downstairs, Rose hides the pup, but Alice thinks he's missing. When their duplicity is revealed, an outraged Miss Treadwell balks to a just-returned Richard and Virginia about the servants, their insolence and insubordination. Virginia suggests Miss Treadwell may be happier elsewhere, a taxi is summoned, and the dour woman is whisked away, while Rose and Alice walk their cute canine on this lovely morning.
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James tells Richard that he's bought...
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James tells Richard that he's bought a small airplane. Richard, concerned at his son's aimless lifestyle, admonishes him to be careful. Virginia is thrilled at James' purchase -- it excites her because as, she puts it, 'it's something to do with the future and not the past.' Richard is stung at her remark and her impetuous behavior. He's to give a speech in the House of Lords on this glorious day and expects Virginia to be in the gallery. However, if she prefers to go flying with her stepson and forego her duty as his wife, she can do as she pleases. They depart and Richard calls upon the steadfast Lady Prudence. When evening comes and the pair have not returned to Eaton Place, Richard begins to worry. He calls down the authorities who did spot an aircraft that was lost in a fog. Prudence refuses to leave Richard, who is distraught, as is the entire household. Weary and irrational, Richard speculates that his son and wife may have been swept away across the Channel, engaged in some tryst as salacious newspaper accounts imply. However, it's quite possible they've been killed and Richard feels great shame. His remorse turns to fury when word comes that they are safe and headed back to London. At first blush, Richard scolds them vigorously. Virginia is chastened and mortified at the great fuss and the distress she has caused her husband. Richard reassures his wife that despite her defiance and attempt at independence, he's grateful for their safe return and expresses his great love for her.
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An eloquent letter James has written...
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An eloquent letter James has written to the Times of London on the plight of unemployed men who fought valiantly in the war draws the attention of the Conservative Party. Sir Geoffrey Dillon tells Richard and Virginia that there's interest for James to run for MP in an upcoming bi-election. It's a rough, working-class district and Richard expresses his misgivings. One published letter to the Times editor does not make James a politician, Richard asserts. James, however, picks up the gauntlet and visits the constituency where he makes a speech to the few who are willing to listen to his ideas. In the meantime, Edward and Daisy, who have left service, are struggling to survive. Daisy has miscarried and though proud, they regret leaving their positions. Hudson and Edward engage in harsh words when they visit their old friends and the couple leave abruptly. His campaign floundering, Virginia urges James to go to his father, a seasoned politician, for advice. The Viscount and her Ladyship attend a rally where James speaks. A hostile crowd jeer him bitterly -- when the results are announced, it's no surprise that James has lost to the Labour candidate in large numbers. When the Barnes come to apologize to Hudson, Virginia offers them employment -- Edward will be their chauffeur and valet James and Daisy is now head house parlor maid. Though James was not given the chance to help the many displaced workers, a young couple are now gainfully employed under his roof.
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Wonderful news for Rose sets the tone...
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Wonderful news for Rose sets the tone for what's happening in the household and with the war. Gregory Wilmont's estate has been settled and she is the beneficiary of 1200 pounds. More good news from Upstairs as well -- Virginia Hamilton is coming to London and meets Richard for dinner. The Viscount has fallen in love with her and tells her that he is ready to remarry. It's splendid news for this lady who has lost so much and she very happily accepts Richard's offer. Back at Eaton Place, Georgina encounters Hazel for the first time since her outburst in the French field hospital. Georgina apologizes to Hazel, but Hazel, quite magnanimously, says there is nothing to forgive. She has known for years how fond Georgina has been of James, where as she sees herself, despite all of her very best efforts, as a disappointment to him. With the war winding down, they can plan their future together. James continues to be sullen and is extremely depressed at the idea of his father taking a new wife. The victim of his invective is his loving wife and the couple have bitter words. Hazel, at the end of her tether, is felled by a fever, which is incipient Spanish influenza. Dr. Foley is summoned and all that can be done is to make her as comfortable as possible. James warms to Virginia when she dines at Eaton Place and news of an Allied victory raises everyone's spirits. Amid the jubilation, Hazel dies. At the 11th hour of the 11 day of the 11th month, as the armistice is declared, the family and staff head to Wimbledon for Hazel's funeral. That evening, there's a quiet celebration in the morning room and Rose sits downstairs, alone, in deep thought for her beloved Gregory and mourning her deceased mistress and trusted confidante, the late Hazel Bellamy.
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Virginia Hamilton, who enlisted...
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Virginia Hamilton, who enlisted Richard's help as Civil Lord for a government scheme a year ago, has returned to the Eaton Place in behalf of her son, Michael. He is barely 18 years old and is facing a naval court martial for cowardice during a recent action. She is seeking legal advice and Sir Geoffrey Dillon agrees to represent Michael in the proceedings against him. Meanwhile, Edward has left to visit his family, but Hudson and Mrs. Bridges sense some odd behavior at Daisy's end. Moreover, Ruby is hoarding scraps of food and it doesn't go unnoticed -- not in these desperate times of extreme rationing. James is very disagreeable in his convalescence and resents that Hazel has accompanied Virginia to her son's trial in Dover. His behavior is extremely erratic and he is given to incoherent and very unsettling comments. In the end, Michael is found guilty of cowardice, but is spared expulsion, his extreme youth merits the consideration of the tribunal. Edward, however, is in serious trouble -- seems despite his indisposition, he's to be sent back to France and tried to dodge the authorities. Hudson tells Daisy that the ultimate punishment for Edward is the firing squad and Daisy discloses where he's hiding. Mrs. Bridges surmises that Ruby has been sending him the scraps of food she was storing. Despite a spirit that has galvanized all in the war effort, Daisy bitterly notes that a class-based double standard still exists. Michael Hamilton is found guilty with a slap on the wrist, but her husband, who is not at all well, can face dire consequences for being sent back to the fighting that has scarred him. Hudson protects Edward, but it's not a happy ending for Virginia Hamilton. Richard breaks the terrible news to her that Michael has been killed in the most recent action, perhaps to compensate for the recent verdict rendered against him. Virginia is devastated and Richard marvels at the dignity, character and extreme bravery of this exceptional woman -- a widow who has now sacrificed both her husband and teen-aged son for King and country.
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Sleepless and distraught, Hazel...
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Sleepless and distraught, Hazel stares blankly in James' bedroom, convinced that her husband has been killed at Passchendaele. Richard tries to placate her and paint an optimistic picture, but he can't convince her. Trooper Norton, James' right-hand man, comes to Eaton Place with James' belongings. Richard and Hazel question him and he says that he disappeared after a brutal attack. It's quite possible he's a prisoner of war. Norton says that there was talk of the Germans killing captives, especially officers, but Richard refuses to believe it. Word comes that James has been found in a field hospital in France. Hazel's anguish is mitigated, but information is still scant. She suggests that she and Richard go to France with an ambulance and private nurse to collect James and bring him back to London. Richard has serious misgivings about her plan -- how will he look, he asserts, as a peer of the realm and Civil Lord, if he uses his power in this way when so many are dying? Hazel will not be dissuaded and the pair travel to France, where they discover Georgina has been looking after James. James is severely wounded and his surgeon ask that they consider this move very carefully. Georgina puts up a great fuss, but Hazel is implacable -- this is her husband and if the surgeon signs off on it, he will be transported back to England. There's nothing more to be said. Consent is granted with great hesitation and they depart. Back at Eaton Place, the staff steel themselves for Major Bellamy's arrival. Miraculously, he's made the journey and he's where he should be, at home with the very capable Nurse Wilkins at his side. Hazel feels profound relief and some relish -- she's been vindicated at Georgina's balking and her embarrassing display. Richard has the best birthday present awaiting him -- his grateful son, in his wheelchair in the morning room. It's been a while since father and son have had a chat without acrimony and James tells his father what he remembers of his tumult and how random it all seems to him.
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Lady Prudence and matinée idol Gerald...
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Lady Prudence and matinée idol Gerald Maitland barge into Eaton Place and head directly for the drawing room. Hudson is baffled, but when Richard arrives, now his Lordship, Viscount Bellamy of Haversham, he asks Pru what she has planned. She says she's enlisted some of her society friends to put on a series of tableaux -- great warriors leaving for battle through the ages. Funds raised will be donated to the Red Cross, so Richard can not object. Through a series of mishaps, under Mr. Maitland's direction, it comes together and the family and some of the staff are enlisted to participate. Georgina will make the ideal Florence Nightingale and Ruby the perfect personification of a pathetic Belgian with Lady Prudence in Prussian military garb, representing the German invasion. During a dress rehearsal, there is an air raid and there's some damage in the exquisite room that has seen Prime Ministers and royalty in happier days. As Special Constable, Hudson ventures out and is wounded, but attempts to conceal his injury upon his return. He is rushed to the hospital, his wounds are superficial and the entire household are grateful -- despite the condition of the house, all are safe and cheerful. The indomitable Bellamy household has survived another ordeal, but at the very last, a telegram comes for Hazel. In her absence, shaken Richard, reads that "Major James Bellamy is missing, believed killed."
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As 1917 approaches everyone, both...
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As 1917 approaches everyone, both upstairs and downstairs, are hopeful that the new year will be better than the one coming to an end. Richard is shocked when he receives a note from 10 Downing St. offering him a peerage in the King's New Year's Honours List. He accepts and on the advice of Sir Geoffrey Dillon, takes the title Viscount Bellamy of Haversham. He also receives a visit Virginia Graham, a war widow who is hoping to enlist his aid in a fund-raising effort to pay the education fees of children whose fathers have died in the war. Richard is not at his best and dismisses her somewhat curtly, something he later learns to regret. Edward returns on leave but he is not a well man. When Richard finds him sitting on the stairway in tears, he realizes he is suffering from shell-shock and ensures he is well taken care of. After a munitions factory blows up, a familiar face returns to 165 Eaton Place.
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It's an ordinary day below stairs,...
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It's an ordinary day below stairs, but the war has everyone edgy. Mrs. Bridges is 'as cross as two sticks,' but Rose takes it in her stride. The post arrives and Rose opens a letter from Gregory's company commander. She falls over in shock and Hudson and Mrs. Bridges are alarmed. Hudson reads the contents of the sad missive aloud: Sgt. Wilmont has been killed in the line of duty. He died peacefully and his effects will be forwarded to her in due course. Rose is inconsolable and Mrs. Bridges is beside herself. Hazel feels great sorrow when she's told of Rose's terrible news, but receives word that James will be home on leave. Days pass and a disconsolate Rose visits a celebrated medium, a commonplace practice through which the many bereft seek solace. Rose bolts out of there and returns to Eaton Place in absolute hysteria. Hazel hears the commotion, but has just learned of Lt. Jack Dyson's death, which is front page news. She bucks up and asks to speak to Rose. One grief-stricken woman urges another to be strong and to seek comfort in prayer, Ultimately, Hazel tells Rose and herself that time will help accommodate bereavement and loss. A ruminative and disillusioned James returns and it's clear that he's devastated by the recent Battle of the Somme. There is no conflict, he tells Hazel, that cannot be resolved without humans resorting to the untold barbarism he has witnessed and that, in his view, good and very brave men have died for nothing. He no longer believes in this senseless war. Hazel instinctively runs to his side and he hands her a compilation of his written thoughts for posterity. He asks her to keep them safely and to promise to have them published, if he is killed. Sullen at the specter, she nods and promises to fulfill her husband's request. James offers his condolences to a weary and defeated Rose, who says she doesn't understand the war, but he perpetuates the same lies he's come to loathe. Hazel reads James' writing and realizes he's been transformed by his experience. In the end, James senses his wife's preoccupation and suggests lunch and a lovely walk in the park as a respite. If any good can be extrapolated from the traumatic and dramatic events of these last weeks at Eaton Place, James' and Hazel's bond, commitment, indeed their entire marriage, is fortified despite, or because of, the relentless adversity they've endured away from each other.
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The staff prepare for the wounded...
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The staff prepare for the wounded officers tea party, but Hazel tells Hudson that she will entertain in the morning room. She trumps Lady Prudence's plan to open the drawing room and assures Hudson that they can manage. Hazel's judgment is sound, because the gathering is sparsely attended. The conversation is strained, but Hazel does her very best to entertain her guests. She notices a quiet young man, sitting alone, on the opposite side of the room. He is Lt. Jack Dyson RFC, an ace pilot, and Hazel engages him in conversation. She finds him modest, wise and very charming. Jack asks Hazel if she'd like to go rowing and she accepts. She is fascinated by his experiences in the war and she's very drawn to him. After an evening of theater and dancing, Hazel takes the initiative and, living in the moment, she makes certain that he leaves for France with happy memories of England. Jack drops by Eaton Place and Hudson finds him alone in the morning room. Whatever next? Jack explains that he has something he wanted to leave for Mrs. Bellamy before his departure. Over in France, Georgina is a respected nurse and she meets James while training some new volunteers. They dine and speak intimately about the war, his marriage and other matters. James muses that Hazel must lead a very dreary life back home and Georgina breaks down and expresses her abiding anxiety and worry for him. At that moment, the battle begins in earnest. Back at Eaton Place, Hazel holds Jack's love note and his 'wings' very dearly. The unnerving clamor of fierce warfare in far-off France can now be heard all over London and are a brutal reminder to all of the slaughter and unspeakable horrors this war has wrought, with no end in sight.
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Rose is shocked when she meets her...
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Rose is shocked when she meets her one-time fiancé, Australian Gregory Wilmot, on the bus where she is working as a conductress. Gregory had already been to Eaton Place and thanks to Daisy knew where to find her. He's in London on leave and is now a Sergeant having fought a Galipoli the previous year. He and Rose once again start seeing each other and have cleared up any misunderstanding from his previous trip to London. Rose is again thinking that this time, she will marry him but Gregory isn't so sure that's what he wants. Hazel meanwhile is upset with Lady Prudence who she feels is taking over the household. After rejecting Prudence's request to host a tea for wounded officers in the Bellamys drawing room as she would not want to overtax the already overworked servants, Prudence goes directly to Hudson to discuss the issue. Hudson assures her the staff could cope and Hazel finds herself trapped into hosting the tea party. Written by garykmcd
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James is still is staff position but...
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James is still is staff position but yearns to join his Regiment on the front lines. He asks his father to pull strings and have him transferred but Richard won't hear of it. He is completely opposed to the favoritism that seems to be found everywhere and he is concerned at putting his only son in danger. Hazel is equally opposed thinking James is selfish, caring only for himself at her expense. She relents however and unbeknown to him, visits James' Colonel to see what might be done. At the hospital, Georgina is having difficulty adapting to her duties. Young socialites like herself are not well regarded by the professional nursing staff and she finds the hours long and the work demanding. She perseveres and finally gets a patient of her own to care for. Some of her friends have also joined her and Georgina is proving her mettle by comparison. Below stairs, Rose announces that she is to be a conductress on an omnibus, much to Daisy's annoyance as she had hoped to do the same. Written by garykmcd
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Hudson tells Richard that Edward and...
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Hudson tells Richard that Edward and Daisy will be married the next day and asks for permission for a modest celebration below stairs. Richard agrees and urges Hudson to make certain that the staff are very supportive of Daisy. There's a cheerful atmosphere in the servants hall when friends and family come together to wish the newlyweds well. Daisy and Edward leave for the train station and an anxious Daisy bids her beloved Edward farewell. Georgina is there at the same time to see two of her officer friends off and she sees a seriously wounded soldier on a stretcher. She goes over to him to comfort him and he asks her feebly to light a cigarette for him. Georgina notices that there's a woman overseeing this troop train and asks her about becoming a volunteer nurse. When she turns around, Georgina sees that the cigarette had fallen out of the young man's mouth and that he has died on the station platform, her lovely face his last vision before he leaves this world.
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Accounts of German atrocities and...
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Accounts of German atrocities and spying are rampant and feed Hudson's unyielding disdain for all things German. Newspaper accounts of the sinking of the Lusitania send Hudson to a local recruiting office to enlist. He is turned away, but becomes a Special Constable. Hazel is annoyed at Hudson for his histrionic talk below stairs, reprimands him and demands that he stop his bombastic rants at once. Happy news for Richard when he's offered the post of Civil Lord of the Admirality in the inchoate coalition government. Riots compel Mr. and Mrs. Schoenfeld, owners of a nearby bakery, and their young son to seek refuge with their good friends in the servants' hall. They are naturalized British subjects of German ancestry and their shop was attacked by some of the locals, many of whom their own customers. Their young son was hurt and they had nowhere to go. Hudson is displeased to see them, despite what's happened. Richard and Hazel are informed and Hazel insists they spend the night. Mrs. Schoenfeld senses Hudson's discomfort and hostility and tells him that they can't stay, despite Hazel's kind offer. The Schoenfelds depart, bitterly disappointed in these nice people they've known for years. Ultimately, Hazel's point is made quite clearly -- insensitive behavior and senseless acts of violence and brutality are not exclusive to one group.
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On his first leave since the outbreak...
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On his first leave since the outbreak of the war, James speaks candidly at dinner about the recent failures at Ypres and other serious military blunders. He is highly critical of the inaccurate press accounts that are spun by the current Liberal government. Sir Geoffrey Dillon dines with the Bellamys that evening and Richard, Tory MP, says openly that the Conservative Party are forcing a coalition government. Richard will do whatever he can to bring down the Asquith government, mindful that change on the political landscape would benefit his own aspirations -- perhaps a high-level position in the Admiralty. Downstairs, Edward and Daisy decide that they want to marry and go to Hudson with their happy news. Hudson is dismayed, but takes the couple to meet with James and Hazel, who offer their congratulations. James is notified that he will not return to regimental duty and will be granted a safe desk job, well out of harm's way. He is baffled at this news and his regimental commander is infuriated. It appears all of this was brought about as a result of his loose talk that evening in his dining room and Sir Geoffrey's likely leak to the press. James leaves Eaton Place immediately to consider his next move -- he is determined to return to the front.
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Hazel and James marriage seems to...
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Hazel and James marriage seems to have come to and end. She tells Richard that should James' expected appointment to his company's holdings in India come through, she will not accompany him. Richard is understanding and agrees with her that it's the best course of action. The political situation in Europe is unraveling and Richard is concerned that they could soon be at war. His own views seem at odds with the general population where war fever has taken hold. Richard is convinced that the war will last a long time - the general view is that it'll all be over by Christmas - and cost many lives. Below stairs, Hudson is all for a war against what he sees as the evil Hun. Mrs. Hudson is occupied by other things, particularly Albert Lyons who supplies them with game and fish. It's quite obvious he has his eye on her and she fully anticipates a proposal is forthcoming. On a trip to the seaside however, she sees a different side of him. War is soon declared and James is called up by his Regiment. It's obvious that Hazel is now trapped, unable to leave as she had hoped.
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It's a particularly difficult time...
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It's a particularly difficult time for Hazel who has just had a miscarriage. She and James had not been particularly close of late and the miscarriage has driven them even further apart. When she is most in need of love and understanding, James is at his most aloof acting as if Hazel was staying in her bed with a minor ailment. James is in a funk, not happy about anything in his life. He doesn't like his work and is searching for something new to interest him. He seems to be taken with his step-cousin, Georgina Worsley, taking her to a Regimental ball. Richard thinks James is treating Hazel very badly and they have an angry exchange, leading James to ask his father to move out of the house. The ill-feeling upstairs has it's effect on the servants as Rose and Hudson take sides leading Daisy to break down in tears.
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On a crowded London tram, Rose has a...
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On a crowded London tram, Rose has a chance encounter with an Australian sheep farmer, Gregory Wilmont. He woos Rose, who is very cautious and skeptical at his attention. After a week of outings and an evening of dancing, Rose's is smitten by this captivating man. She invites Gregory to Eaton Place for tea to meet 'her family.' Mrs Bridges is charmed by Gregory, but Hudson is skeptical. Gregory proposes marriage to Rose in front of the staff and Rose accepts. Hudson is stunned that Rose would leave the comfortable, familiar world she had known for the Australian Outback. After a tearful goodbye in the servant's hall and best wishes from Captain James and Hazel, Rose departs, but returns abruptly. Her reasons are dubious and Hazel comforts her. Utterly resigned, Rose accepts her lot. She is destined to stay in service in the Bellamy household for the rest of her days.
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Edward the footman finds himself in a...
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Edward the footman finds himself in a spot of bother after gossiping with fellow footmen at the local pub about the weekend he spent at Somemrby. His mention that he saw Lord Charles Gilmour leaving Lady Tewkbury's bedroom in the dead of night is overheard by an enquiries agent and Edward soon finds himself as the key witness when the lady's husband launches divorce proceedings. Richard learns of it all when it turn out that Sir Geoffrey Dillon, the family solicitor, is also representing Col. Tewksbury, the ladies aggrieved husband. Also on his mind is that Charles Gilmour is something of a protégé and a rising star in the Conservative party. Richard realizes that the only way to extricate himself and the household from their dilemma is to find a way to ensure the divorce proceedings never reach the courts. That proves easier said than done.
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It's Chritsmas 1913 and 165 Eaton...
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It's Chritsmas 1913 and 165 Eaton Place has a new resident in the form of Miss Georgina Worsley, Richard's niece. Lady Southwold is also visiting for the holiday. Georgina is 18 and has been at school in Switzerland. She is an orphan and there is a likelihood that she will stay on with the Bellamys as Richard's ward. Also new is Daisy, the under-house parlor maid. Also 18, Daisy is relatively new to service but she and Georgina hit it off, though their backgrounds could not be more different. When Georgina hears that Daisy has not been to see her parents in London's East End for some three years, she suggests they take food out of the larder and visit them. What they see is an eye-opener for Georgina. When they fail to return early on Christmas Eve, everyone is concerned for their well-being, forcing Richard to call the police.
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Hazel is worried at the prospect of...
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Hazel is worried at the prospect of spending the weekend with James's friends Bunny and Diana Newbury and their coterie of hangers-on. The purpose of the weekend is a fox hunt but James forbids Hazel from riding given her inexperience and the dangers involved. Diana still has feelings for James and is not below pulling practical jokes and convinces Hazel that she should join them after the hunt has started and "surprise" James. Hazel's life is put in danger leading to a row with James. Then there's the question of bed-hopping, which at least some of the guest are enjoying. When Major Cochran-Danby enters Hazel's room with an eye to her bed, he tells her James is doing the same in Diana's room. A heartbroken Hazel then bolts for London. It's all a bit of an eye opener for Edward as well who is acting as James' valet for the weekend when a French ladies maid clearly shows an interest in him.
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Richard's financial difficulties may...
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Richard's financial difficulties may come to an end when a chance meeting at his club gives him a tip on a stock that should increase considerably in value. He's told that Cartwright Engineering will soon received a large contract and is a sure bet. The tipster receives Richard's assurance that the source of this information will remain confidential. The stock tip proves to be a good one and Richard makes a pretty penny. His troubles begin when a Parliamentary opponent, Henry Pritchett, begins to suggest that Richard used inside information from his days at the Admiralty and the Government initiates an inquiry. Richard is true to his word and refuses to divulge the source of his stock tip leading to trouble with the Conservative Party. The resolution to the situation is not entirely to Richard's liking however. Written by garykmcd
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James and Hazel have returned to 165...
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James and Hazel have returned to 165 Eaton Place and Hazel in particular now has to settle in. The servants are somewhat dismayed at the little amount of entertaining the young couple have planned for the fall and all in all, life has become dull for everyone. Hazel receives a call from the Lili de Ternay, claiming to have met Richard years ago and simply calling to renew their acquaintance. Hazel naturally invites her and her brother Kurt to dinner not realizing that they are penniless fortune hunters who mistakenly believe that Richard is a rich man, given his connection to the Southwolds. Below stairs, there is a new under-house parlor maid, a young Welsh girl named Gwyneth whose imagination proves to be far more than anyone can handle.
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Rose is shocked when Alfred, their...
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Rose is shocked when Alfred, their former footman, turns up at 165 Eaton Place. From all appearance he's been sleeping rough and clearly hasn't eaten for several days. Without telling anyone, she let's him stay in the servants' hall and feeds him. He tells her his story since he ran off with the German Baron and spins a yarn about how his attraction to his latest employer's pretty young daughter got him sacked. Rose has a soft spot for Alfred but not surprisingly, he hasn't been truthful with her. When Hudson reports Alfred's presence to Richard Bellamy, a visiting Sir Geoffrey Dillon makes inquiries only to learn that Alfred's most recent employer was found murdered. The police are soon on the scene but one of the servants is put in danger when Alfred takes a prisoner.
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Unbeknownst to Richard Bellamy his...
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Unbeknownst to Richard Bellamy his son James has been secretly seeing Hazel Forrest in her free hours and has asked her to marry him. She doesn't accept him right away but does resign her position as Richard's secretary. When Richard hears of it, he lashes out at James questioning his judgment but the younger Bellamy stands his ground. Hazel turns him down but it's clear that she has a secret which she will not reveal to James. James assumes his father has interfered in his life and it is left to Hazel's kindly father, Arthur Forrest, to tell James of the perceived impediment preventing Hazel from marrying. As for Richard, he is clearly being pursued by his old family friend, Lady Prudence Fairfax, who thinks he should remarry.
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James goes to spend a weekend at...
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James goes to spend a weekend at Somerby Park, ancestral home of his friend Bunny Newbury who is now a Marquis having recently inherited his title from his late father. Bunny has also invited Diana Russell whom he hopes will marry him. She and James were great friends in their youth with Diana spending a good deal of time at Southwold and she clearly has her eye on him, much to Bunny's dismay. Hudson has accompanied James for the weekend to act as his valet and his loader for the shooting. He is somewhat in awe of the large estate and can only imagine what it would be like to be butler in such a household. Lunch on shooting day is something of a disaster when the butler Makepiece, is in his cups and unable to organize the event properly. Hudson steps in and takes charge ensuring all goes well and catching the eye of Bunny's mother, Lady Newbury who comment to the housekeeper that Hudson is exactly the kind of man they would need at the estate. As for James, he realizes that throughout the weekend, he would rather be with Hazel Forrest. Both James and Hudson will have decisions to make.
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A pall has been cast over the Bellamy...
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A pall has been cast over the Bellamy household since the sinking of the Titanic with Lady Marjorie and Miss Roberts aboard en route to New York. Hazel Forrest is still working for Richard Bellamy who is in the last stages of completing his biography of his late wife's father, Lord Southwold. James continues his interest in Hazel much to the disdain of Hudson, who still sees her as too low in station to socialize with a Bellamy. Richard learns from the family solicitor, Sir Geoffrey Dillon, that much of Lady Marjorie's wealth will now pass to the children, leaving him to ponder his own future. As time passes, the day to day functioning of the house begins to deteriorate. Reviewing the household accounts, having the seamstress come in for necessary repairs and payments to shopkeepers have all fallen behind. Richard's request that Hazel take care of the accounts does not sit well with Hudson and some of the other servants. However, an unexpected arrival on a rainy night gives them not only some detail of what happened the night the Titanic sank but casts Hazel Forrest in a new role.
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Julius Karekin has moved on to...
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Julius Karekin has moved on to another woman and Elizabeth is distraught at yet another failed relationship. She has to admit that Karekin was always frank with her and never promised anything in terms of a permanent relationship, reminding her that she is still a married woman. James has returned from India, to which he was banished after impregnating Sarah the housemaid some years before. James intends to resign his commission in the army in favor of a position in the City and he has with him his fiancée, Phyllis Kingman, the daughter of a middle class Englishman serving in the army. She is uncomfortable and nervous at Eaton Place, trying too hard to fit in and as a result is not fitting in well at all. Phyllis and Elizabeth don't quite hit if off at first but they both eventually come around. A small family gathering is held on the occasion of Lady Marjorie's birthday but they receive unexpected and uninvited guests. Sad news from Buckingham Palace casts a shadow over the festivities leaving them all to wonder what the next decade might bring them. Written by garykmcd
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Mrs. Bridges confronts Sarah when she...
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Mrs. Bridges confronts Sarah when she notices the girl's increased appetite and weight gain. She asks Sarah if she's pregnant again and she confirms it, but tells a tall tale about the child's father, who is Thomas Watkins. Watkins tells Richard that he's in love with Sarah and wants to marry her, even though he never tells Richard that he is the father. Lady Marjorie is infuriated at what has transpired, summons Watkins and and tries to persuade him to stay on as chauffeur. When he persists, her Ladyship tells him that they must leave instantly because she has never allowed servants to marry. She considers that James is due back from the Northwest Frontier and what that entails for him. In a veiled threat, Watkins insinuates he can and will cause embarrassment to the Bellamys by divulging the many scandals which occurred during his employment. Richard understands that every man has his price and offers Watkins' 500 pounds sterling to realize his dream of starting his own garage business. In exchange, Watkins will take Sarah and never reveal to anyone anything he witnessed during his engagement with the family.
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Shrewd and successful Julius Karekin...
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Shrewd and successful Julius Karekin romances Elizabeth and very subtly enlists her to ask her father about an incipient contract deal between the British government and the Turkish navy. Meanwhile, Sir Geoffrey apprises Lady Marjorie and Richard of the terms of Lord Southwold's will. Lady Marjorie's brother, Lord Hugo, owes thousands in gambling debt, so the Eaton Place townhouse must be sold for settlement. Lady Marjorie is deeply distressed, but Richard is pragmatic. Together, they consider more modest, but suitable sections of London where they may be happy. To ingratiate himself with the Bellamys, Julius buy Elizabeth a hat shop to manage. When Lady Marjorie learns of Elizabeth's liaison with Julius, she strongly disapproves. Such men are vulgar upstarts of commerce, who seek entrée into the great drawing rooms of fashionable London. The great irony is that Julius is warmly received by her Ladyship and Richard, when he buys the lease of the house for Elizabeth, who happily bestows the deed of gift to her parents.
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Elizabeth involves herself to a group...
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Elizabeth involves herself to a group of young upper-class woman, who are suffragettes. A plot is hatched to demonstrate in front of the home of a MP who sits on a committee with the Home Office. Rose is suspicious and worried that Elizabeth will find herself in trouble. She follows Elizabeth to the demonstration and all of the assembled women are arrested, including Rose. A wealthy entrepreneur, Mr. Julius Karekin, witnesses the mêlée and posts bails for Elizabeth before she is jailed. Rose remains behind bars and witnesses the horror of forced-feeding and the overall bad treatment the imprisoned women receive. Elizabeth visits the home of Mr. Karekin and begs him to use his influence to have her fellow activists and Rose released. Karekin is a parvenu and complies and a traumatized Rose returns to Eaton Place. For Julius Karekin, attaching himself to Elizabeth and, by extension to the Bellamy name, may prove very useful to him.
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Lady Marjorie's father Lord Southwold...
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Lady Marjorie's father Lord Southwold has died and her mother, Lady Southwold, comes to stay at 165 Eaton Place with her companion Miss Hodges. Something of a crisis erupts when Lady Southwold's butterfly brooch is nowhere to be found. Hodges reports that she had seen Miss Roberts just outside Lady Southwold's room and Richard Bellamy orders Hudson to question all of the servants before calling in the police. It's a disagreeable task and Miss Roberts is horrified at the mere suggestion that she is under suspicion. Hudson for his part is suspicious of Watkins when he learns that he recently had a visitor to his quarters in the mews. When Watkins refuses to tell him the identity of the visitor or explain why he was there, he reports it to Mr. Bellamy. When the mystery of the missing brooch turns out to be nothing more than a misunderstanding, ill-feeling lingers. Written by garykmcd
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Elizabeth arrives home to stay with...
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Elizabeth arrives home to stay with her parents and they await the arrival of the beloved Bellamy Nanny Webster. The years have taken their toll, she is disagreeable, she resents Sarah's presence in the nursery, she is very fussy about the food, but worst of all, she is feeble and the safety of baby Lucy is compromised. Elizabeth is indifferent at first, but Sarah finally convinces her that she needs to become more attentive and involved with her child's care. Elizabeth tells her Ladyship that Nanny Webster is quite unsuitable for the post. In her singular, kindly and inimitable way, Lady Marjorie suggests to Nanny Webster that she return to her retirement and return to Southwold. No hurt feelings and no arguments from Nanny. Nanny departs and, for the nonce, beautiful baby Lucy will be looked after by a very capable and willing Sarah.
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Both Richard Bellamy and Mr. Hudson...
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Both Richard Bellamy and Mr. Hudson have to deal with visits from their respective brothers. Richard's elder brother Arthur visits for a weekend for a meeting of the Royal Society. Lady Marjorie is away along with several members of the staff and the house is full of workmen installing a new system of electrical call bells used to summon the servants. Arthur Bellamy, a medical doctor, is a dour man who is prone to complaining about anything around him. He even accuses the somewhat abstemious Hudson of having liquor in his breath. Hudson meanwhile welcomes his brother Donald who is passing through London with his wife Maudie and daughter Alice. They are close despite not having seen each other for nearly 10 years. Donald is a relatively famous engineer having constructed two major bridges over the Zambezi river. Hudson however has never really admitted that he is in service but rather that he simply works for an MP. He rents a fine suit of clothes for the weekend and pays for a suite for his family at a fine hotel. When Richard and Arthur Bellamy see Hudson and his family dining at a fine restaurant, the petulant Arthur is convinced that he is leading a double life. Richard however proves to be far wiser and more gracious.
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There is trouble in the Bellamy...
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There is trouble in the Bellamy household when an ex-soldier, an Irishman by the name of Dooley, appears at 165 Eaton Place asking to see Lady Marjorie. Hudson hustles him out the door but he soon shows up in the mews and tells chauffeur Thomas Watkins that he is in possession of letters Lady Marjorie wrote to her one time lover, the deceased Captain Charles Hammond. He's clearly out to extort money from her and his price eventually rises to £200, with a threat to send the love letters to the Daily Mail if his demands aren't met. The wily Tom Watkins decides to play both sides. He has no intention of letting Dooley get the money and with Sarah's help, devises a clever scheme to ensure that Tom Watkins is the only one who will come out on top. The result that both Lady Marjorie and Richard are beholden to him and his stature in their eyes grows considerably - and Sarah ends up in his bed.
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With confirmation from Buckingham...
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With confirmation from Buckingham Palace, Lady Marjorie informs Hudson that His Majesty, King Edward VII, will dine at Eaton Place. Excitement, giddiness, nerves and hard work abound in preparation for the royal visit. The King arrives promptly and dinner is served. Thanks to the redoubtable efforts of the crackerjack Bellamy staff, all goes very well. However, a very pregnant Sarah arrives at the servant's door, just as the King is about to depart. Hudson summons Lady Marjorie and tells her that Sarah has returned and is in labor. It's a tricky business getting Sarah to an upstairs bedroom without encountering his Highness or his entourage. The outcome is unfortunate for Sarah. Lady Marjorie generously promises her a safe haven at Eaton Place, at least until she can regain her strength.
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At Christmas 1908, Elizabeth returns...
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At Christmas 1908, Elizabeth returns to her parents and tells them that she has left Lawrence and wants to end her marriage. Lady Marjorie and Richard are very distressed at her news, but Sir Geoffrey Dillon is summoned. Elizabeth explains to him that their marriage was never consummated which, Sir Geoffrey tells her, is sufficient grounds for annulment. Elizabeth will have to be examined by a prominent physician who discovers that she is three months pregnant. Richard is livid with his beloved daughter, whom he trusted and believed and accuses her of lying to him and her mother. Even worse, Elizabeth tells Richard that Lawrence is not her baby's father. Watkins, who has promised Lawrence unswerving loyalty, is offered a job as chauffeur for the Bellamys and Lawrence is disgusted with his wife, his in-laws and, especially with Watkins. He will go abroad with a handsome sum of money and with time, the marriage will be dissolved. With Lawrence gone, Rose is back to her duties and Thomas Watkins is now a member of the staff of 165 Eaton Place.
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The Kirbridges marriage, such as it...
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The Kirbridges marriage, such as it is, is on the decline. Elizabeth is frustrated at not yet having consummated their marriage while Lawrence expresses the view that sexual relations are not necessary for a couple to love one another. Lawrence confides in his publisher Sir Edwin Partridge who offers to seduce Elizabeth and thus deal with the new bride's sexual frustrations on Lawrence's behalf. At a soirée organized by Lawrence for some of his literary friends, the champagne is flowing freely, Partridge is at his best in the role of seducer and soon finds his way into Elizabeth's bed. Below stairs meanwhile, Thomas has been planting the idea that the Kirbridges need a motorcar, though Lawrence quickly realizes that it is Thomas who seems to want one. Elizabeth is firmly in favor of the idea and Lawrence agrees.
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The Bellamys are concerned when they...
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The Bellamys are concerned when they receive a bill from a jeweler requesting a substantial sum to settle their son James' account. Richard thinks he is in the clutches of a greedy and demanding woman. They meet with James' commanding officer, Col. Winters, who tells them that James is drinking too much and is in considerable financial difficulty. They haven't seen James for several weeks and he has been spending time with Sarah, the Bellamys former house maid. Below stairs, the servants welcome Rose who has come for tea and where a letter from Sarah is awaiting her. Sarah has invited her to visit and tells her what has happened. When James finally meets his parents he reveals not only the extent of his debts but that Sarah is pregnant. The family's solicitor, Sir Geoffrey Dillon, is called in to sort it all out resulting in both Sarah and James being banished in their own way.
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Anger at Elizabeth has turned into...
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Anger at Elizabeth has turned into worry -- neither Lady Marjorie nor her father know where she is. Rose knows, however, and she visits Elizabeth to bring some items she's left behind. She's staying with her activist friend, Henrietta and they have frequent visits from Lawrence Kirbridge. Elizabeth and Lawrence have fallen in love, but Rose conveys her parents' concern and urges her to return home. James Bellamy has something to hide from his parents, as well. He's been seeing Sarah, who has become the toast of the Camden Town music hall, since she was dismissed from service. Elizabeth relents, returns home and introduces Lawrence to her parents. Richard and her Ladyship find him charming and quite presentable. Lawrence persuades Elizabeth that they should marry and she capitulates to please him. Mindful that she has been given her parents more than their share of grief, she agrees to a conventional church wedding and all of its trappings. On the eve of her wedding, she assures her mother that she is still 'pure,' and loves Lawrence utterly. Her wedding day arrives and a beaming Richard is very pleased with his beautiful and beloved daughter. The servants are in church and are shocked to see Sarah walk down the main aisle and seated, a guest of James. After a glittering reception for the newlyweds at Eaton Place, the handsome couple leave for their honeymoon and James and Sarah make plans of their own.
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Elizabeth has made new friends in...
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Elizabeth has made new friends in Bloomsbury -- outré artists, intellectuals and a rather handsome poet named Lawrence Kirbridge. Elizabeth finds all of this very heady, but she is very drawn to Lawrence. Lady Marjorie and Richard leave London for the weekend and Elizabeth invites this motley group to Eaton Place. Lawrence reads his poetry in the morning room and tea is served. Rose and Hudson are disgusted and shocked by their slovenly and ill-mannered ways and Edward comments on their lack of hygiene. When her parents return and find the doyenne of the group dancing on a table, they are speechless. Lady Marjorie asks them to leave immediately. Elizabeth is mortified and harsh words are exchanged. Richard urges his daughter to consider her behavior and their feelings and those of the servants, as well. On her 21st birthday, she visits her friends in Bloomsbury and sees Lawrence. She asks to stay with them, but she is turned away. The truth is her this cadre of non-conformists view Eliazbeth with disdain -- she's a rich girl who can not be taken seriously. There's little for Elizabeth to celebrate on her special day -- she's been rejected by her Bohemian chums and has alienated herself utterly from a bewildered Richard and a VERY perturbed and distressed Lady Marjorie.
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Elizabeth returns to London from...
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Elizabeth returns to London from Scotland, where she was invited with her parents. Since she was planning to leave, Lady Marjorie has asked her to check on Sarah and how she is faring in her duties. She discovers that James has a visiting house guest, a Swedish friend and a member of his regiment, Captain Axel Ryttsen. Rysttsen has brought Kraft, his valet, with him. Kraft has been removing valuable objects from the Bellamy house and pawning them. In a byzantine scheme, Ryttsen and Kraft use Sarah as a patsy. She promises to hock one item so that Kraft won't be recognized. In exchange, the sweet-talking Kraft promises Sarah that she will return to Sweden with him. The pawnbroker and the police show up at Eaton Place. The police ask James if he knows what's happened and the pawnbroker claims his suspicions were aroused when a young woman like Sarah entered his shop, with something she must have purloined, given its worth. Sarah's credibility is shattered and the conniving Rysttsen and Kraft return to Stockholm, with the largess of their scheming and leave Sarah behind, one hapless servant girl who will certainly be dismissed.
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Elizabeth Bellamy has been working...
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Elizabeth Bellamy has been working with the poor in the East End and encourages James to accompany her to see what life is really like for many Londoners. He is genuinely shocked at the conditions he finds but is sent for a loop when he sees their former maid Sarah among the poor and the destitute. Sarah also recognizes him and soon finds herself back at 165 Eaton Place among her old friends. She's also up to her old games, this time telling everyone that in the few years she's been away, she learned that she had a gift and can now commune with the dead. The staff are soon holding séances but with Hudson and Mrs. Bridges away with the Bellamys on a outing to Scotland, Rose has been left in charge of the household staff. Hudson returns unexpectedly, however. Written by garykmcd
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Mrs. Bridges is sullen, depressed and...
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Mrs. Bridges is sullen, depressed and guilt-ridden in the aftermath of Emily's suicide. When she doesn't appear downstairs one morning, Rose and Hudson knock on her bedroom door, with no response. Her door is locked and Hudson and Rose are worried and suspicious. When she emerges, she's very taciturn about how she spent her day off and sees Lady Marjorie about the day's meals. Her Ladyship senses her depression and tries to comfort her. Hudson gains access to her bedroom and to his astonishment, there's a beautiful baby girl on Mrs. Bridges' bed. Mrs. Bridges confesses that she stole the baby from her pram, on a whim, the night before and her Ladyship and Richard are notified at once. Calmly, the Bellamys return the child to her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Weber. Richard tries to diffuse the situation by explaining Mrs. Bridges melancholy and subtly offers Weber a bribe. Mr. Weber is insulted and insists the police are notified. Richard was hoping to avoid the law, but he has no choice. Mrs. Bridges is charged and appears before a magistrate. In a last minute gesture to help Mrs. Bridges and to spare his employers further scandal, Hudson appears in court and manages to clear Mrs. Bridges of all charges. Once she settles her mind, Mrs. Bridges apologizes to all for her behavior and Lady Marjorie assures her this unfortunate incident is best forgotten.
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Lady Marjorie, Lady Prudence and a...
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Lady Marjorie, Lady Prudence and a new South African member of their circle, Mrs. Van Groeben, agree to treat their respective staffs to a day's outing in Hampstead Heath. A picnic in the outdoors will serve them well, in body and spirit and make them more productive. Preparations are made and Emily is smitten with William, Mrs. Van Groeben's young footman. Daydreaming about him, Mrs. Bridges scolds her with great ferocity. The couple walk in the park, Emily tells him about her Irish upbringing and that she quite alone in the world -- her family are either dead or have emigrated to America. Emily and William are deeply in love, but Mrs. Van Groeben has an eye for for him. She persuades William that he can go far in service, but no good will come if he continues his courtship with a lowly scullery maid. She demands that he break it off with Emily, at once. The ambitious William is now very indifferent toward Emily and she's surmised what's happened. The prospect of facing a life in service, servile to Mrs. Bridges' constant belittlement and with William now abandoning her, she'd rather die. Minutes before they leave for a day that promises to be great fun for all, Rose finds a heartbroken Emily has hanged herself in her room.
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Richard and Lady Marjorie quarrel...
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Richard and Lady Marjorie quarrel bitterly when Richard abstains on a vote in the House of Commons. Lady Marjorie reminds her husband that he owes his political career to the patronage of her Tory family and accuses him of extreme disloyalty. On the same day, James presents an army friend, Captain Charles Hammond. Her Ladyship is charmed by this handsome young man of great intelligence and is very impressed with his deep love of the arts, quite uncommon for his age and station in life. He accompanies Lady Marjorie to the opera when Richard is unable to attend, he sends her flowers and, before long, the two are engulfed in an impassioned affair, borne out of a profound love. Richard suspects what's happened and has a talk to his wife. He tells her that he has decided to change his mind and he will vote against the bill, as she wishes. After all, loyalty is far more important and enduring than one's strong whims, he explains. This resonates with Lady Marjorie and she tearfully puts an end to her liaison. Charles returns to India, and sensing his wife's intense sorrow, Richard wisely suggests that she visits Southwold for a few weeks.
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Mary Stokes has been engaged as new...
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Mary Stokes has been engaged as new under house parlor maid and begins her post while Lady Marjorie and Rose visit Southwold. Richard comes home one evening and finds the young woman in tears. When pressed, she tells Richard that she is pregnant and that the father is the son of a Belgravia family. Richard thinks it best for Mary to have an abortion, because she will surely be sacked if Lady Marjorie finds out about her condition. She refuses, but Richard feels pity for her and promises to help her by confronting the father, Myles Radford. The staff are bemused that Richard would take such an interest in a lowly house parlor maid and there are even whispers that he has sired Mary's child. Myles Radford denies paternity when confronted by Richard and threatens legal action against him if he persists in his quest. Sir Geoffrey Dillon offers wise advice -- though he has lofty goals, Richard would be well-served to release the girl from her household duties and send her on her way. Richard grudgingly capitulates, but gives Mary a nice sum of money and assures her a good reference. She's very grateful to the kind Mr. Bellamy and leaves without a fuss -- a sympathetic downstairs wishing her well.
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Elizabeth breaks her engagement with...
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Elizabeth breaks her engagement with Angus, but encounters an old friend from her days in Dresden, Baron Klaus Von Rimmer. As they become better acquainted, Elizabeth finds his tales of his German background and upbringing enchanting. Richard has his suspicions and talks to the Baron frankly -- what is it that he's after? He's protective of Elizabeth's feelings and wants Klaus to speak to him plainly. The Baron says he sells arms and would like for Richard to use his influence in the Admiralty to seal a contract with the British government -- a deal that would give the Baron access to classified British naval information. The Baron tries to sweeten the deal by offering Richard a bribe. Richard is no fool and sees the Baron for the spy he is. He undertakes to have the Baron arrested at the Eaton Place. What Richard doesn't know is that the Baron is in a homosexual relationship with Alfred, the Bellamy footman. When Alfred realizes that Richard is planning to have Klaus arrested at dinner that evening, he puts Klaus on to the plot. Dinner is about to served and Klaus graciously excuses himself. With Alfred at his side, the two leave in a hurry. Alfred will accompany Klaus back to Germany with no thought for Elizabeth and her feelings.
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Elizabeth Bellamy, who has been...
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Elizabeth Bellamy, who has been studying in Germany, returns to Eaton Place. Lady Marjorie tutors her daughter in how to present herself and hires a celebrated seamstress to attend to Elizabeth's couture, preparing her for the London season. Elizabeth has been invited to a splendid ball and she's to be presented to the King and the Queen Consort. Lady Marjorie's cup runneth over and the excitement, throughout the entire household, is in full throttle. When she leaves Eaton Place, she looks exquisite and more than suitable for the royals. When she arrives at this glittering affair, Elizabeth looks around her and decides that she wants no part of any of it. She's an intelligent and educated young woman, with ideas and opinions. She abjectly eschews what she perceives is a mindless, superficial lifestyle, where tedious small talk are the order of the day. She leaves the gala and doesn't tell a soul. Her Ladyship and her father are greatly upset, but Rose talks some sense into her when Elizabeth surfaces in the servants' hall. Each have their duties and responsibilities to perform and, Rose tells her, and like it or not, Elizabeth must conform in her very best 'to the manner born' way for her sake and to please her parents.
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The Bellamys are in Scotland and the...
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The Bellamys are in Scotland and the house is empty. One evening, servants from another house in Eaton Place visit and they gossip about their chic employers. Taking it a step further, Rose and Sarah go upstairs and Sarah dons one of Lady Marjorie's dresses. The servants hold a mock tea party in the morning room, making sport of their betters. When Sarah mockingly summons Hudson, Captain James Bellamy walks in and takes on the role of butler. The servants are mortified, but James persists. He's returned from an evening gone sour and is not in a forgiving mood. A defiant Sarah continues her charade and speaks very intimately with James. He kisses her passionately and promises not to disclose to his parents what he has come home to this evening. Never entirely satisfied in service and despite Rose's pleas to stay, Sarah leaves the very next day -- and from the front door this time.
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Richard Bellamy decides he wants a...
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Richard Bellamy decides he wants a portrait of his wife Marjorie and she engages Scone a somewhat Bohemian artist who has lived in Paris and eschews his rich family's background and status. When he asks for several of Lady Marjorie's dresses to be sent to his studio, he gets to meet the precocious Sarah who is immediately taken with him. He decides he wants to paint her as well and over the course of several weeks she spends her Wednesday evenings off with him, never quite seeing what he is putting on canvas. She regales him with tales of 165 Eaton Place and of her now good friend and roommate, Rose. The Bellamys are quite pleased with his painting of Lady Marjorie but are shocked at a public exhibition of his work to find that that he has displayed her portrait side-by-side with that of the two maids, now semi-clad. The resulting shock and disgrace - and the belief that Scone painted the portraits in their room - is such that Richard wants both Sarah and Rose fired.
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