Belgravia (2020–…): Season 1, Episode 3 - Episode #1.3 - full transcript
Before she died, my daughter Sophia
was delivered of a boy...
the son of Lord Bellasis.
Where is he now, this boy?
The boy is a man.
He now goes under the name
of Charles Pope.
Will you keep our secret?
Why would I publicise
my late son's degradation?
Stephen and Grace
will be here for dinner.
They'll be wanting money.
Why shouldn't I marry Maria Grey?
It's a good match for her.
She's marrying
the future Earl of Brockenhurst.
That man we were talking about
the other day...
Charles Pope?
The very one.
May I present a new acquaintance?
Mr Pope.
Good evening, to both of you.
Say good evening to John, dear.
You're just the sort of man
to make me say all manner of things.
I'm a very ordinary sort of fellow.
Well, Lady Brockenhurst
doesn't seem to think so.
You want them to guess.
You want them to guess
he's Edmund's child
and you wanted us to witness it.
HORSES HOOVES CLATTER
Oh! I thought you'd gone to bed.
What a terrible evening.
DOOR SLAMS
It was fun!
You can hardly complain
about the other guests.
The evening was damnable!
And you made it more so!
Staring into the eyes
of that scented degenerate!
You may go, Speer.
I'll ring for you in a while.
Now, what is this about?
Who is this man Pope?
Where did he come from?
And why is Father
investing in his business?
When did he ever
invest in my business?
You don't have a business.
Then when did he ever invest in me?
And why was Lady Brockenhurst
guiding him around the room
like a show pony?
How did he manage that,
when she barely spoke a civil word
to either of us all evening?
My poor darling.
What relation is Mr Bellasis
to our host of this evening?
His father,
the Reverend Mr Bellasis,
is Lord Brockenhurst's
younger brother.
He's also his heir,
although it will be his son John
who inherits,
since the old boy is considerably
healthier than his younger sibling.
John Bellasis will be the next...
The next Earl of Brockenhurst.
The present Earl's only son
died at Waterloo.
There's no one else.
Did you enjoy yourself?
Yes.
Although, I am sorry to learn
that John is not a traveller.
Nonsense.
He likes to travel in Europe,
just not in the blazing sun
of the tropics.
Who can blame him?
I should say the same.
I suppose.
You and John are well suited.
I know, you would not say so
if you did not
believe it to be true.
Good night, Mama.
But why was Mr Oliver so angry?
Mr Oliver can always
find a reason to be angry.
So, it wasn't
because of the gentleman you liked?
Mr Bellasis?
No, it wasn't that.
But you did like him?
Why?
I just wondered
if you planned to see him again.
Good night, Speer.
DOOR SHUTS
It sounded as if everyone was having
a wonderful time, your ladyship.
I think it did go well.
Isn't it bliss when they've gone?
GROANS
There are only so many times one can
enquire after someone's health,
or delight in the news
of the Queen's pregnancy.
CHUCKLE
Who was that chap
in the cotton trade?
What was he doing here?
You mean Mr Pope?
Pope? Was that the name?
Yes, I thought he was a nice fellow.
He was more amusing than those women
you stuck me with over supper.
Why was he in our drawing room?
Because I like him.
How do you know him?
Thank you, Dawson.
Yes, Ma'am.
Maria Grey has grown up
to be a pretty girl.
She used to be so serious,
always with her head in a book.
Now she looks quite charming.
Hmm, lucky John.
I hope he deserves her.
They had new dresses on tonight,
mother and daughter.
They knew John would be there
it doesn't do to look impoverished.
Certainly not
in front of one's intended.
Edmund would be forty-eight now.
I suppose he would be.
Anyway...
..I'd better turn in,
busy day tomorrow.
Good night, my dear.
DOOR SHUTS
Charles must know.
He does not.
She placed him
to her right at dinner.
Everyone noticed.
She might as well
publish it in The Times.
She wanted to put him at his ease.
She wanted to draw attention to him.
And why else would she do that
if she didn't want it to get out?
How long have you been in contact
with Charles?
Do you really think
she hasn't told him?
People like him
do not get invited to
intimate suppers in Belgrave Square,
to tear a pheasant with the peerage.
My dear...
Admit it!
People like Charles Pope
do not sit next to the
Countess of Brockenhurst at dinner!
In the ordinary way of things,
she wouldn't give him
the time of day!
If you think I'm going to listen
to one word of reproof,
you have another think coming!
You're as much to blame as I am!
Me? What have I done?
SCOFFS
You have been in contact
with our grandson, you know him!
You're even working with him,
but you never saw fit to tell me.
Anne, be reasonable.
I gave that baby boy away,
because you were afraid
it might mean
fewer invitations to dinner
if we brought him up.
And now you deceive me
in this hateful and hurtful way.
Lady Brockenhurst's ignorance
was no excuse for the cruelty
of keeping the secret.
It was time she knew.
She had to know.
Now go back to your own room
and let me sleep.
Your sentimentality
will bring the roof down on us all.
When Sophia is spoken of as a...
as a fallen woman,
when doors we have worked so hard
to open are slammed against us,
then you will only
have yourself to blame.
DOOR BANGS
SOBS
We must invite them back.
Who?
Lord and Lady Brockenhurst,
of course.
Don't be silly.
Why is that silly?
Haven't we been
entertained by them?
Isn't it only polite
to ask them back?
They wouldn't come.
Father left early.
He was gone by the time I came down.
He has a busy morning
preparing for tomorrow's meeting
with Mr Cubitt.
He intends to talk about Oliver.
To see what he can do for him.
What indeed?
And one for you, Mrs Oliver.
Whom is it from?
An old school friend
who's in London for a few days.
She's going to an exhibition
at the National Gallery tomorrow.
She'd like us to meet there.
How nice.
Should I accompany you?
I mustn't be a burden.
What could be more boring
than the gossip of a stranger?
I'll take Speer.
BELL RINGS
Mind if I join you, Miss Ellis?
Only I've got to mend this
before she gets dressed
this evening.
I was interested in what
you were saying the other day
about making the right choices
and paying for the wrong ones.
Hmm, I'm not sure
how much choice we have,
in the usual way of things.
We're at the bottom
and they're at the top.
But you like the Mistress,
don't you?
I work for her, that's all.
Perhaps you don't like
being in service.
There's no perhaps about it.
Why should I?
Grovelling and lying and pretending
I'm glad to be a dog's body?
What's to like about that?
Well, why don't you try
something else, then?
And what might that be, Miss Speer?
Nursing in some
blood-soaked hospital,
thick with the smell of disease? No.
They've got us women
stitched up and no mistake,
whichever way you look at it.
Well, I mean to hedge my bets.
How will you do that?
There's a situation
and if it comes off,
there may be benefits for me.
And what might that be?
It's too early to tell.
WATER SPLASHES
WATER SPLASHES
What an unexpected pleasure.
I was about to head off to White's.
Oh, then I'm glad
to have caught you.
Hmm.
What have you done to your face?
A window broke, as I was passing.
Did you break the window?
No.
Three queens.
I might fold.
You can't. You're my partner.
We're about to have
a winning streak.
SCOFFS
Winning streak?
Would you recognise one
if you saw it?
I'm sorry, Bellasis,
but I really must go.
If you're off, Barton,
I may as well make tracks.
Black, you must give a chap a chance
to win some of his money back.
Black! Just, just one more round,
that's all I ask.
So, your lordship...
I'm not a lord.
My brother is a lord. I am not.
Then you may need
to talk to your brother.
CLEARS THROAT
So...
..to what do I owe this honour?
It seems I'm in a spot of bother.
How much bother?
£1,000 worth of bother.
£1,000?
£1,000? Is it really?
It really is.
Now, we are both gentlemen.
And I am also a pleasant fellow
and a reasonable one.
Yes, yes...
You have two days, to get the money.
Well, I...
GLASS SMASHES
I wouldn't normally ask...
The thing is you do normally ask.
In fact, you ask habitually.
I can't remember the last time
you came to my house without asking.
The answer is no.
WHIMPERS
Two days!
My God... Oh, my God...
WHIMPERS
What do you mean, "No"?
No. I won't give it to you.
Is that clear enough? Not this time.
But you have to.
I'm your brother,
and I... I need it. I must have it.
You should have thought of that
before you gambled it away.
You played with money
that you did not own.
And this is the result.
I didn't gamble it.
That's not what happened at all.
We both know that that's a lie.
How dare you accuse me of lying.
I am a man of the cloth.
I will not pay
any more of your debts.
You have a decent income
from your inheritance
and the Church, as far as I can tell
and your wife
gives you additional funds.
You simply must learn
to live within your means.
How dare you?
Who do you think you are?
Just because
you're two years older than me,
you take it all, the title,
the estates, all the money!
No, not all the money.
Do you ever think how unfair it is?
It isn't fair.
But it is the system
that we were born in to.
Well, one day John will inherit.
My son, not yours.
And he will have everything.
And when he does let me remind you,
by definition, you will be dead
and he will no longer
have to fund his father's vices.
Then good day to you, brother!
HE EXHALES
DISTANT GIGGLES
DOOR UNLOCKS
GASPS
My Goodness, Stephen!
You nearly gave me a heart attack!
What on earth
were you doing down there?
Nothing.
Do you remember Mr Pope?
He was here the other evening.
Yes, very well.
And now he's come back for some tea?
He has. He's been telling me
all about his plans.
He has a cotton mill in Manchester.
Are you interested
in Mancunian cotton mills?
Lady Brockenhurst
has been very encouraging.
Has she, indeed?
Yes and I've delayed him
quite long enough.
Thank you for my tea.
You're very kind.
Nonsense. I so enjoyed
our conversation, Mr Pope.
I will write to you at once.
Thank you for that.
Whatever decision you may come to.
DOOR BANGS
Someone's looking
terribly pleased with themselves.
Lady Maria Grey,
if I'm not mistaken?
The very one. And you are Mr Pope.
How do you know my rank?
I asked our hostess about you.
Goodness. Should I be flattered
by your curiosity?
And why, may I enquire,
are you so full
of the joys of spring?
Because I am optimistic
about my business.
But I'm afraid
you'd find it very dull.
You don't know that.
Why do men always presume
that women are only interested
in gossip or, or fashion?
I meant no offence.
I simply didn't think
the financing of a cotton supply
would be very diverting.
I'll be the judge of that, Mr Pope.
So, you tell me about your mill
and your cotton
and if I find the subject tiresome,
I shall stifle a yawn
behind my hand,
then you'll realise you've failed.
I will endeavour
to meet the challenge.
Are you on your way somewhere?
The new London Library,
I think I might join.
Mr Carlyle is a friend of Mama's
and he waxes lyrical
over its merits,
which, according to him,
are vastly superior
to those of the library
at the British Museum,
though I find that hard to believe.
Ryan is my mother's maid.
She is accompanying me.
She thinks Mama will disapprove
of our being seen together.
Will she?
Probably.
Where are you headed?
I was on the way to my office.
I want to look in before I go home.
And, where is that?
Bishopsgate. In the City.
Then we'll walk with you now.
The library is at 49 Pall Mall,
so, we won't
take you out of your way.
And on the way, you can explain
your business to me,
but, please,
be as amusing as possible.
Who was that?
The Duchess of Bedford.
So, I might have greeted her too,
if you'd only taken me there.
Well, you've been received
by Lady Brockenhurst now,
so, it's not all downhill.
What are you doing this afternoon?
Nothing much.
I have a dress fitting at three.
Can I have the carriage?
Of course. There's no need to ask.
It's hard to fill your days when
you have nothing to fill them with.
That's very philosophical.
I'm not a complete dunderhead,
whatever your opinion of me.
How would you like
to fill your days?
With my children
and my position in Society,
but since I have neither,
I have to go to fittings
and embroider
and put clothes in the missionary
barrel and try to be content.
I do not talk
about your lack of a child,
because I do not believe
you want me to,
but if there's anything...
Please.
I've seen everyone.
I've tried everything.
There will be no children.
James! Good to see you.
Mr Cubitt.
William. This is very good of you.
Did you see the new Reform Club
on your way here?
Isn't it beautiful?
He's a clever chap, that Mr Barry.
I'm not sure about
the politics of the place.
Full of liberals, all of them
bent on making trouble,
but it's fine work none the less.
Are you a member of this place yet?
I put you up for it ages ago.
I'm not sure
how my application is doing.
There's quite a list, I'm told.
And the, er, the sons of old members
leap frog over the newcomers.
Ah, it'll be all right.
Two glasses of Madeira, please.
I wonder. I'm just a businessman,
with no background whatever.
Thomas and I
are hardly Plantagenets.
No, you are great
and public figures. I am not.
They'd be lucky to get you.
They won't see it in that light.
Let's talk about Cubitt Town.
How much do you know?
We'll expand the docks,
create local businesses
and build houses
for those working nearby.
Exactly. There's pottery,
cement, brick production.
Dirty stuff, but it has to be made,
with homes for clerks
and bookkeepers too
and, hopefully, we can persuade
some managers to settle there.
In short,
we want to reinvent the place,
rebuild it as a whole community.
Could there be, erm,
an opening for Oliver?
It's just the sort of thing
he'd love to be part of.
Oliver?
My son.
Oh, that Oliver.
I've never thought him
very taken with the business.
I don't object
to his working for us,
but the demands
of a project like this
might be rather more
than he'd be willing to undertake.
Oliver would be very keen
to be involved.
He's tremendously interested.
Yet he's never asked
a single question
about the development of Bloomsbury,
or Belgravia,
or any of our other contracts.
Sometimes he's not good at, erm...
..expressing himself.
I see.
And now we must part.
You go that way and I go this.
Very well, but, you win.
I did not have to stifle
a single yawn.
LAUGHS
You'd better hurry,
or the library will be closed
when you get there.
I should love to come
and visit your offices one day.
If your mama didn't think
we should walk together,
I doubt she'd find a visit
to Bishopsgate quite the...
Nonsense. You say Lady Brockenhurst
may pay you another visit,
why shouldn't I come with her
and see it for myself?
You know her well, then?
Well, I'm engaged to her nephew.
Ah.
That is...
she and I could come together.
Nothing would give me more pleasure,
and now I should be on my way.
Polishing your skills, Miss Speer?
I don't need to polish them,
thank you, Morris.
They're bright enough.
Who's in for luncheon?
I've to go and lay the table.
Just the Mistress and Mrs Oliver,
I think.
The great ladies
have lunch laid for 20 every day.
Then whoever
drops in during the morning
is invited to stay
and eat with them.
No one drops in here,
I'm sad to say.
Ah.
What's Mrs Oliver up to?
She's gone for a drive
with the Mistress
and then she has a dress fitting
this afternoon.
Hasn't she got enough clothes?
Maybe.
But she doesn't have the invitations
to go with them.
What's this?
Just saying Mrs Oliver
would like to get out more.
Then she would be advised
to lower her sights a little.
I don't see that.
Her dad's as rich as Mr Trenchard.
Or nearly.
Money is not the sole criterion,
Miss Speer,
not in the society she aspires to.
She went to Brockenhurst House,
Mr Turton.
You can't ask for more than that.
We will have to wait and see
if the invitation is repeated.
She gets little enough help
from the Mistress.
Mrs Trenchard has more sense.
She knows where she's not wanted.
I don't agree, if you'll pardon me,
Mr Turton.
I'd say she goes where she likes
and she doesn't care
what people think.
I admire her for it.
Then I suggest
you take your admiration
up to the dining room, Morris
and lay the table.
Yes, Mr Turton.
Emma says she's well.
My goodness, what happened?
Nothing, nothing. I, er...
..a window broke
when I was standing near it.
Does this have something to do with
how you spent yesterday evening?
It wasn't one of my best.
You know we have nothing left
to sell except this house?
If you keep going as you are,
we won't have enough
to pay the servants.
Oh, you're being ridiculous.
I mean it!
We pay them little enough as it is.
Don't worry.
I'll... I'll sort it out soon.
Sort your face out first.
Where will he be?
Near the round pond,
but what if I see someone I know?
What could be more innocent
than a chance meeting
in Kensington Gardens?
Of course,
I'm taking a chance on you, Speer.
You'll have enough
to hang me by the end of it.
You can trust me, Mrs Oliver.
I do.
I may be a fool, but I do.
There he is.
The handsome man with the stick?
That's him.
He looks very confident.
Oh, he's quite in charge.
He thinks he is here to seduce me.
So, I'll have
to make him work for it.
He'll be disappointed
if it's too easy.
Oh, Madam. You are a card.
I wasn't sure you'd come.
Nor was I.
CHUCKLES
Do you mind if I sit down?
No, please.
I'm worn out
from the dust and bustle of London.
They seem to be building everywhere.
Yes, I was in Trafalgar Square
this morning.
Nelson's column is taking its time.
Yes.
I keep some rooms in Isleworth
for just that reason.
To get away from all the noise
and the traffic.
Isleworth?
Hmm.
It's only a dining room
and a bedroom,
with a servant to run things, but...
I can escape the city when I want
and breathe clean, fresh air.
How heavenly that sounds.
It's quite a secret.
I've never been to Isleworth,
but isn't it where people
keep orchards
and grow vegetables
for their tables?
Yes, I believe so.
The air must be wonderful.
I must make a pilgrimage
and see it for myself.
Well, I hope you'll let me show you
my hiding place when you do.
I don't think
I could bear to miss it.
Perhaps you could
suggest a day that would suit you?
Perhaps I will.
Shouldn't you be in the office?
I've done enough for one day.
DOOR OPENS LOUDLY
May I have the carriage tomorrow?
I'll need it for most of the day.
Or I can hire one.
No need, why do you want it?
I've an idea
of going out to Isleworth.
There are some kitchen gardens
and orchards for sale
that I'd like to see.
Why would you care?
Oh, I thought
it might be something I'd enjoy.
I'd accompany you if I could.
Don't worry. I'll take Speer.
And, er...
am I expected to buy one of these
kitchen gardens, or orchards?
Or my father might.
I could ask him
if you don't care for the idea.
Well, my dear father-in-law
can certainly afford it.
Erm, would you like me
to come with you?
I should love it.
There are three for us to see
before luncheon
and I have four to visit afterwards.
Then you will go alone.
I'm tired out
by the very idea of it.
Don't ask about my face.
And a good day to you too, father.
He said, "No."
Who?
Your uncle, of course.
What am I to do?
I only have two days left,
or rather, one day, now.
How much did you ask for?
£1,000. I owe Schmitt.
Schmitt?!
Oof.
Then, you'd better pay him.
I know.
You can't think of anyone
who could help me?
Go to a bank.
They know the family has money
that'll come to you and then me.
Couldn't you borrow against that?
I've tried before.
They think my brother is too healthy
and the wait will be too long.
Hmm.
Well, I do know a Polish chap,
Emil Tomaszewski, in the East End.
He could get you the money in time.
How much does he charge?
50%.
50. That's a bit steep.
Yeah, well, that's the going rate
in emergencies.
They have you over a barrel.
Is there really
nothing left to sell?
Only Harley Street
and that's mortgaged to the hilt.
I doubt we'd walk away
with a penny piece.
Well, you must convince the bank,
or visit the Pole.
Do you know who I saw today,
at your uncle's house? Charles Pope.
Trenchard's prodigy?
Was he there again?
He and your aunt were having tea
in her private sitting room.
Hmm.
I caught them as he came out.
Something's going on.
Hmm.
I think she means
to invest in his business.
What?!
Aunt Caroline? Why?
Exactly. Why?
Do we know anything about him?
No.
I don't like the hold he has
over Lady Brockenhurst.
She's making a fool of herself.
How can we find out more about him?
Well, as it happens,
I'm quite friendly
with the younger Mrs Trenchard.
She told me her father-in-law
has known Pope for a while.
How friendly?
Well, I bumped into her
in Kensington Gardens and we talked.
Indeed?
Do you want my help, or not?
Talk to one of their servants.
They know more than anyone.
Yeah, that's not a bad idea.
Mrs Trenchard's maid was with her
when we met. I'll speak to her.
There must be some history
between Charles Pope and Caroline.
If we find it out...
maybe she'll pay
to keep the information secret.
You mean we should blackmail her?
Certainly I do.
And you could start us off
by finding out the secrets
of the Trenchards.
Hmm.
Excuse me. Are you delivering
for Mrs Trenchard?
Mrs Babbage, but yes.
Can you give this to Ms Speer?
She's one of the maids.
Why don't you give it yourself?
Turton? The butler? Hmm.
What makes you think
he'd listen to me?
He likes money, sir.
And you want to talk to Miss Ellis,
the Mistress's maid.
She's been with the family
longer than anyone.
Oh, and she also likes money?
I'd say so, sir.
And how would I meet these two?
You'll find Mr Turton
in the Horse and Groom Pub,
in Groom Place,
just off Belgrave Square.
Hmm.
He's there most days,
before luncheon at noon
and before dinner at six.
Hmm.
Thank you, Miss Speer.
You have been very helpful.
Now I must hurry.
I have to dress Mrs Oliver
for dinner
and we should plan
what she's wearing tomorrow.
For her trip to Isleworth.
CHUCKLES
Oh, I'd be very grateful
if you said nothing
to your mistress about this.
I'm a servant, sir.
We don't tell anything
they don't need to know.
CHUCKLES
Who's going with us to Glanville?
I s'pose I'll be dressing Mr Oliver
as well as the master.
Morris here,
is coming as first footman.
He'd do it, but I don't believe
Mr and Mrs Oliver will go.
Don't you?
I hope not.
Mrs Oliver hates to travel.
She doesn't see the point of it.
Not when all that's waiting
is a draughty house and boredom.
I'm glad I'm going to Glanville.
I enjoy myself when I'm there.
Yeah, of course you do.
You sit there
talking to the local boobies
about the new shops
that have opened in Bond Street
and the new fashions,
and what the Duchess of This
said to the Countess of That,
until they think you've got the ear
of the Queen herself.
She could do worse
than listen to me.
LAUGHTER
What are you talking about?
Miss Ellis has been regaling us
with the delights
of a stay at Glanville.
Don't remind me.
Three days of torture
being shaken to the core,
followed by four weeks
of tedium in a muddy desert.
You've got that in common
with Mrs Oliver.
I have nothing in common
with Mrs Oliver.
Mr Pope is outside, sir,
asking for the honour
of an interview.
Then bring him in.
I hope I don't disturb you,
Mr Trenchard, but I have some news.
Of course not. Won't you sit down?
I... I won't, if you don't mind.
I'm too excited.
Lady Brockenhurst has written.
I saw her yesterday and her letter
arrived this morning at the office.
And it brought good news?
The best of news.
I believe
I have all the money I need.
Nobody has all the money
they need.
With your help and hers,
it means I can pay off the mortgage,
buy new looms
and re-tool the factory.
I can plan my visit to India,
appoint an agent out there
and then sit back and watch
as our production grows.
Not that I will sit back, of course.
And you still have no clue
as to the reason for her interest?
She likes me. I can see that.
But she's never explained
how she came to hear of me
in the first place.
Hmm.
Well, well. One mustn't
look a gift horse in the mouth.
Is that good news too, sir?
I'm a member of the Athenaeum.
They have allowed me to join.
I wonder if Mr Cubitt nudged them
to overcome their distaste.
Nonsense.
Let's test the membership.
We will make them
give us some lunch.
Excuse me. May I help you, sir?
My name is Trenchard.
I'm a new member here.
Ah yes, Mr Trenchard.
Welcome to the club.
Will you be taking luncheon
with us today?
Absolutely!
With Mr Cubitt, sir?
Mr Cubitt? No.
It is customary
for a new member's first luncheon
to be with the person
who proposed them, sir.
Is it a rule?
Not a rule, sir, no. Just a custom.
Well, it is a custom
we must set aside for today.
I am here with my...
with my guest, Mr Pope.
Very good, sir.
To the health of your new venture.
I've, er...
I've made a few calculations
which I'd like to show you.
I see a lot of myself in you.
High praise, Mr Trenchard.
I don't know what I've done
to deserve it.
Excuse me.
I'm very sorry, Mr Trenchard,
but business papers are not allowed
in any part of the building.
And that is a rule, I'm afraid.
Of course.
Thank you, sir.
Does he remind you of Robespierre?
They're very officious, I must say.
They should be proud of any member
with business papers to show.
Should I be worried that you keep
a secret house in Middlesex,
with a grand bedroom
and a silent servant?
Would you rather
we were at my set in Albany?
You should probably get dressed.
I'm dining in town and you
should be home in time to change.
I might give my horse a rest
and come back with you.
If only we could.
Can't we?
My dear.
I'm travelling with Speer
in my husband's carriage.
HUFFS
Where are you meeting your maid?
The Bridge Inn.
Hmm.
Can you help me with this?
Ah.
Do I have to lace it?
No!
That's only for comedies
in the theatre.
The laces are tied, I just need help
with the hooks down the front.
Hmm, right.
Yeah, well, next time,
it might be an idea
if you were to wear something
a little less complicated.
I can hardly walk down the streets
in my dressing gown.
Even for you.
CHUCKLES
Hmm.
Oliver?
How did you know where I was?
They told me at your office.
I've been waiting for 20 minutes.
Mr Pope and I were celebrating.
Mr Pope?
Why is he here?
Well, he's had good news
about his company
and I've just been accepted
as a member of the club.
Your father has been
wonderfully kind and encouraging.
What's the good news?
Someone else is willing to join
Mr Trenchard as an investor.
You seem very adept
at getting people
to put their hands in their pockets.
If only I had your gifts.
That's enough.
If Lady Brockenhurst...
Lady Brockenhurst
will put money into your company...
I must leave you, gentlemen.
I have been away from my desk
long enough.
Would you please enlighten me?
Why does everyone
want to give money to that bumpkin?
What's behind it?
There is some element to this
business that you have left unsaid.
You know his late father
was an old friend of mine.
So old, I've never heard of him.
Have you not?
He asked me to look after his son
when Charles first came to London.
Then you've certainly managed it.
Here, I came to give you these.
Mr Trenchard!
Let me help you.
PAPERS RUSTLE
So... where shall we hold
our next tryst?
You decide.
But what a difference these railways
will make.
Oh, in what way?
We could already go to Brighton
and be back in time for tea.
And soon it will be no more
than five, or six hours
to travel to York.
The prospect makes me feel
quite giddy.
Hmm,
why does everything have to change?
I like things the way they are.
Nothing has to change
about this afternoon.
And now I really must be gone.
Don't make me wait too long
before I see you again.
Is Father home?
Not yet. But he will be soon.
Then let us enjoy a few minutes
of peace before he shows his face.
DOOR BANGS
I wish you wouldn't be so harsh.
Has he spoken to you...
Hmm?
..about the Isle of Dogs?
Yes.
You don't sound very excited.
Should I be?
Normally you're angry
about being left out of things.
I am.
I'm even angrier now.
Your father has gone out on a limb
with Mr Cubitt.
I did not ask him to.
Maybe not,
but it was all on your behalf.
My father has always
wanted me to be something I am not.
It is my fate to disappoint him.
I'm sure that's not true.
It is even more true...
..now that he's found
the perfect embodiment
of all the virtues that I lack.
You mean?
Mr Charles Pope.
I found them lunching together
today.
I wish you did not dislike him so.
One day you may regret it.
You mean when my father has made
Mr Pope his heir and displaced me?
That day will never come.
I went to see an agent.
He's given me descriptions of some
gardens and orchards up for sale.
That being why you said
you were visiting Isleworth.
I thought they might be useful.
So, now I have an alibi?
Mm-hm.
Thank you.
I'm ever deeper in your debt.
We must go.
You're early.
I couldn't work.
I had lunch with Charles today
and he told me
that Lady Brockenhurst...
Thank you, Ellis.
I won't change for dinner quite yet.
Very good, ma'am.
I'll ring when I need you,
but take the pink with you now
and see if you can get the mark out.
We should have a password
for when the coast is not clear.
How sad to think we have
so many secrets that we need one.
Now, tell me more
about your luncheon.
He arrived at the office,
full of the news.
We went to the Athenaeum.
Have you been accepted?
Why didn't you tell me?
I only heard this morning.
I dare say
I shall be asked to leave soon.
Why?
Because she is giving him the money.
And when people learn that,
well, they'll guess the secret.
It's over.
Sophia will be remembered as a slut
and we'll be down in the dirt
with her!
Why didn't I give him
the full amount
when he needed at the start?
Why didn't you?
Because I thought
it would be too easy.
I'll go and speak to her.
What good will that do?
None at all probably,
but it can't do any harm.
Today, at the club...
..I wanted so badly
to tell him the truth.
Oh, Anne.
My heart kept urging me
that he should hear it
from his grandfather,
rather than have it whispered
on every street corner.
But you didn't tell him?
No.
But was I right not to?
James...
..when we put the child away from us
and turned our backs,
we chose a life of lies.
Now those lies
have returned to haunt us...
..and we must manage as best we can.
Mr Turton, is it?
Could be.
Do I know you, sir?
No.
But I understand we might be able
to do some business.
You and me?
I doubt you and I would have
much business in common, sir.
Oh?
But that's where you're wrong.
I'm, erm...
well, I'm looking for some help
in a private matter,
and you could just be the right man
for the job.
Why would you think that?
Well, I've asked
among my acquaintance
and yours was the name
they suggested.
And a Miss Ellis.
The mistress' lady's maid.
Just so.
So, would it be possible for you to
work with Miss Ellis on my behalf?
I need some information
about the Trenchards.
What makes you think
I would betray them?
Oh?
CHUCKLES
Betray is a harsh word, Mr Turton.
I merely want to know more
about the family.
And I am led to believe,
in certain circumstances,
that you might be willing to help.
What circumstances?
Well, there'd be a small reward
for your assistance, of course.
How small?
That rather depends on the results.
was delivered of a boy...
the son of Lord Bellasis.
Where is he now, this boy?
The boy is a man.
He now goes under the name
of Charles Pope.
Will you keep our secret?
Why would I publicise
my late son's degradation?
Stephen and Grace
will be here for dinner.
They'll be wanting money.
Why shouldn't I marry Maria Grey?
It's a good match for her.
She's marrying
the future Earl of Brockenhurst.
That man we were talking about
the other day...
Charles Pope?
The very one.
May I present a new acquaintance?
Mr Pope.
Good evening, to both of you.
Say good evening to John, dear.
You're just the sort of man
to make me say all manner of things.
I'm a very ordinary sort of fellow.
Well, Lady Brockenhurst
doesn't seem to think so.
You want them to guess.
You want them to guess
he's Edmund's child
and you wanted us to witness it.
HORSES HOOVES CLATTER
Oh! I thought you'd gone to bed.
What a terrible evening.
DOOR SLAMS
It was fun!
You can hardly complain
about the other guests.
The evening was damnable!
And you made it more so!
Staring into the eyes
of that scented degenerate!
You may go, Speer.
I'll ring for you in a while.
Now, what is this about?
Who is this man Pope?
Where did he come from?
And why is Father
investing in his business?
When did he ever
invest in my business?
You don't have a business.
Then when did he ever invest in me?
And why was Lady Brockenhurst
guiding him around the room
like a show pony?
How did he manage that,
when she barely spoke a civil word
to either of us all evening?
My poor darling.
What relation is Mr Bellasis
to our host of this evening?
His father,
the Reverend Mr Bellasis,
is Lord Brockenhurst's
younger brother.
He's also his heir,
although it will be his son John
who inherits,
since the old boy is considerably
healthier than his younger sibling.
John Bellasis will be the next...
The next Earl of Brockenhurst.
The present Earl's only son
died at Waterloo.
There's no one else.
Did you enjoy yourself?
Yes.
Although, I am sorry to learn
that John is not a traveller.
Nonsense.
He likes to travel in Europe,
just not in the blazing sun
of the tropics.
Who can blame him?
I should say the same.
I suppose.
You and John are well suited.
I know, you would not say so
if you did not
believe it to be true.
Good night, Mama.
But why was Mr Oliver so angry?
Mr Oliver can always
find a reason to be angry.
So, it wasn't
because of the gentleman you liked?
Mr Bellasis?
No, it wasn't that.
But you did like him?
Why?
I just wondered
if you planned to see him again.
Good night, Speer.
DOOR SHUTS
It sounded as if everyone was having
a wonderful time, your ladyship.
I think it did go well.
Isn't it bliss when they've gone?
GROANS
There are only so many times one can
enquire after someone's health,
or delight in the news
of the Queen's pregnancy.
CHUCKLE
Who was that chap
in the cotton trade?
What was he doing here?
You mean Mr Pope?
Pope? Was that the name?
Yes, I thought he was a nice fellow.
He was more amusing than those women
you stuck me with over supper.
Why was he in our drawing room?
Because I like him.
How do you know him?
Thank you, Dawson.
Yes, Ma'am.
Maria Grey has grown up
to be a pretty girl.
She used to be so serious,
always with her head in a book.
Now she looks quite charming.
Hmm, lucky John.
I hope he deserves her.
They had new dresses on tonight,
mother and daughter.
They knew John would be there
it doesn't do to look impoverished.
Certainly not
in front of one's intended.
Edmund would be forty-eight now.
I suppose he would be.
Anyway...
..I'd better turn in,
busy day tomorrow.
Good night, my dear.
DOOR SHUTS
Charles must know.
He does not.
She placed him
to her right at dinner.
Everyone noticed.
She might as well
publish it in The Times.
She wanted to put him at his ease.
She wanted to draw attention to him.
And why else would she do that
if she didn't want it to get out?
How long have you been in contact
with Charles?
Do you really think
she hasn't told him?
People like him
do not get invited to
intimate suppers in Belgrave Square,
to tear a pheasant with the peerage.
My dear...
Admit it!
People like Charles Pope
do not sit next to the
Countess of Brockenhurst at dinner!
In the ordinary way of things,
she wouldn't give him
the time of day!
If you think I'm going to listen
to one word of reproof,
you have another think coming!
You're as much to blame as I am!
Me? What have I done?
SCOFFS
You have been in contact
with our grandson, you know him!
You're even working with him,
but you never saw fit to tell me.
Anne, be reasonable.
I gave that baby boy away,
because you were afraid
it might mean
fewer invitations to dinner
if we brought him up.
And now you deceive me
in this hateful and hurtful way.
Lady Brockenhurst's ignorance
was no excuse for the cruelty
of keeping the secret.
It was time she knew.
She had to know.
Now go back to your own room
and let me sleep.
Your sentimentality
will bring the roof down on us all.
When Sophia is spoken of as a...
as a fallen woman,
when doors we have worked so hard
to open are slammed against us,
then you will only
have yourself to blame.
DOOR BANGS
SOBS
We must invite them back.
Who?
Lord and Lady Brockenhurst,
of course.
Don't be silly.
Why is that silly?
Haven't we been
entertained by them?
Isn't it only polite
to ask them back?
They wouldn't come.
Father left early.
He was gone by the time I came down.
He has a busy morning
preparing for tomorrow's meeting
with Mr Cubitt.
He intends to talk about Oliver.
To see what he can do for him.
What indeed?
And one for you, Mrs Oliver.
Whom is it from?
An old school friend
who's in London for a few days.
She's going to an exhibition
at the National Gallery tomorrow.
She'd like us to meet there.
How nice.
Should I accompany you?
I mustn't be a burden.
What could be more boring
than the gossip of a stranger?
I'll take Speer.
BELL RINGS
Mind if I join you, Miss Ellis?
Only I've got to mend this
before she gets dressed
this evening.
I was interested in what
you were saying the other day
about making the right choices
and paying for the wrong ones.
Hmm, I'm not sure
how much choice we have,
in the usual way of things.
We're at the bottom
and they're at the top.
But you like the Mistress,
don't you?
I work for her, that's all.
Perhaps you don't like
being in service.
There's no perhaps about it.
Why should I?
Grovelling and lying and pretending
I'm glad to be a dog's body?
What's to like about that?
Well, why don't you try
something else, then?
And what might that be, Miss Speer?
Nursing in some
blood-soaked hospital,
thick with the smell of disease? No.
They've got us women
stitched up and no mistake,
whichever way you look at it.
Well, I mean to hedge my bets.
How will you do that?
There's a situation
and if it comes off,
there may be benefits for me.
And what might that be?
It's too early to tell.
WATER SPLASHES
WATER SPLASHES
What an unexpected pleasure.
I was about to head off to White's.
Oh, then I'm glad
to have caught you.
Hmm.
What have you done to your face?
A window broke, as I was passing.
Did you break the window?
No.
Three queens.
I might fold.
You can't. You're my partner.
We're about to have
a winning streak.
SCOFFS
Winning streak?
Would you recognise one
if you saw it?
I'm sorry, Bellasis,
but I really must go.
If you're off, Barton,
I may as well make tracks.
Black, you must give a chap a chance
to win some of his money back.
Black! Just, just one more round,
that's all I ask.
So, your lordship...
I'm not a lord.
My brother is a lord. I am not.
Then you may need
to talk to your brother.
CLEARS THROAT
So...
..to what do I owe this honour?
It seems I'm in a spot of bother.
How much bother?
£1,000 worth of bother.
£1,000?
£1,000? Is it really?
It really is.
Now, we are both gentlemen.
And I am also a pleasant fellow
and a reasonable one.
Yes, yes...
You have two days, to get the money.
Well, I...
GLASS SMASHES
I wouldn't normally ask...
The thing is you do normally ask.
In fact, you ask habitually.
I can't remember the last time
you came to my house without asking.
The answer is no.
WHIMPERS
Two days!
My God... Oh, my God...
WHIMPERS
What do you mean, "No"?
No. I won't give it to you.
Is that clear enough? Not this time.
But you have to.
I'm your brother,
and I... I need it. I must have it.
You should have thought of that
before you gambled it away.
You played with money
that you did not own.
And this is the result.
I didn't gamble it.
That's not what happened at all.
We both know that that's a lie.
How dare you accuse me of lying.
I am a man of the cloth.
I will not pay
any more of your debts.
You have a decent income
from your inheritance
and the Church, as far as I can tell
and your wife
gives you additional funds.
You simply must learn
to live within your means.
How dare you?
Who do you think you are?
Just because
you're two years older than me,
you take it all, the title,
the estates, all the money!
No, not all the money.
Do you ever think how unfair it is?
It isn't fair.
But it is the system
that we were born in to.
Well, one day John will inherit.
My son, not yours.
And he will have everything.
And when he does let me remind you,
by definition, you will be dead
and he will no longer
have to fund his father's vices.
Then good day to you, brother!
HE EXHALES
DISTANT GIGGLES
DOOR UNLOCKS
GASPS
My Goodness, Stephen!
You nearly gave me a heart attack!
What on earth
were you doing down there?
Nothing.
Do you remember Mr Pope?
He was here the other evening.
Yes, very well.
And now he's come back for some tea?
He has. He's been telling me
all about his plans.
He has a cotton mill in Manchester.
Are you interested
in Mancunian cotton mills?
Lady Brockenhurst
has been very encouraging.
Has she, indeed?
Yes and I've delayed him
quite long enough.
Thank you for my tea.
You're very kind.
Nonsense. I so enjoyed
our conversation, Mr Pope.
I will write to you at once.
Thank you for that.
Whatever decision you may come to.
DOOR BANGS
Someone's looking
terribly pleased with themselves.
Lady Maria Grey,
if I'm not mistaken?
The very one. And you are Mr Pope.
How do you know my rank?
I asked our hostess about you.
Goodness. Should I be flattered
by your curiosity?
And why, may I enquire,
are you so full
of the joys of spring?
Because I am optimistic
about my business.
But I'm afraid
you'd find it very dull.
You don't know that.
Why do men always presume
that women are only interested
in gossip or, or fashion?
I meant no offence.
I simply didn't think
the financing of a cotton supply
would be very diverting.
I'll be the judge of that, Mr Pope.
So, you tell me about your mill
and your cotton
and if I find the subject tiresome,
I shall stifle a yawn
behind my hand,
then you'll realise you've failed.
I will endeavour
to meet the challenge.
Are you on your way somewhere?
The new London Library,
I think I might join.
Mr Carlyle is a friend of Mama's
and he waxes lyrical
over its merits,
which, according to him,
are vastly superior
to those of the library
at the British Museum,
though I find that hard to believe.
Ryan is my mother's maid.
She is accompanying me.
She thinks Mama will disapprove
of our being seen together.
Will she?
Probably.
Where are you headed?
I was on the way to my office.
I want to look in before I go home.
And, where is that?
Bishopsgate. In the City.
Then we'll walk with you now.
The library is at 49 Pall Mall,
so, we won't
take you out of your way.
And on the way, you can explain
your business to me,
but, please,
be as amusing as possible.
Who was that?
The Duchess of Bedford.
So, I might have greeted her too,
if you'd only taken me there.
Well, you've been received
by Lady Brockenhurst now,
so, it's not all downhill.
What are you doing this afternoon?
Nothing much.
I have a dress fitting at three.
Can I have the carriage?
Of course. There's no need to ask.
It's hard to fill your days when
you have nothing to fill them with.
That's very philosophical.
I'm not a complete dunderhead,
whatever your opinion of me.
How would you like
to fill your days?
With my children
and my position in Society,
but since I have neither,
I have to go to fittings
and embroider
and put clothes in the missionary
barrel and try to be content.
I do not talk
about your lack of a child,
because I do not believe
you want me to,
but if there's anything...
Please.
I've seen everyone.
I've tried everything.
There will be no children.
James! Good to see you.
Mr Cubitt.
William. This is very good of you.
Did you see the new Reform Club
on your way here?
Isn't it beautiful?
He's a clever chap, that Mr Barry.
I'm not sure about
the politics of the place.
Full of liberals, all of them
bent on making trouble,
but it's fine work none the less.
Are you a member of this place yet?
I put you up for it ages ago.
I'm not sure
how my application is doing.
There's quite a list, I'm told.
And the, er, the sons of old members
leap frog over the newcomers.
Ah, it'll be all right.
Two glasses of Madeira, please.
I wonder. I'm just a businessman,
with no background whatever.
Thomas and I
are hardly Plantagenets.
No, you are great
and public figures. I am not.
They'd be lucky to get you.
They won't see it in that light.
Let's talk about Cubitt Town.
How much do you know?
We'll expand the docks,
create local businesses
and build houses
for those working nearby.
Exactly. There's pottery,
cement, brick production.
Dirty stuff, but it has to be made,
with homes for clerks
and bookkeepers too
and, hopefully, we can persuade
some managers to settle there.
In short,
we want to reinvent the place,
rebuild it as a whole community.
Could there be, erm,
an opening for Oliver?
It's just the sort of thing
he'd love to be part of.
Oliver?
My son.
Oh, that Oliver.
I've never thought him
very taken with the business.
I don't object
to his working for us,
but the demands
of a project like this
might be rather more
than he'd be willing to undertake.
Oliver would be very keen
to be involved.
He's tremendously interested.
Yet he's never asked
a single question
about the development of Bloomsbury,
or Belgravia,
or any of our other contracts.
Sometimes he's not good at, erm...
..expressing himself.
I see.
And now we must part.
You go that way and I go this.
Very well, but, you win.
I did not have to stifle
a single yawn.
LAUGHS
You'd better hurry,
or the library will be closed
when you get there.
I should love to come
and visit your offices one day.
If your mama didn't think
we should walk together,
I doubt she'd find a visit
to Bishopsgate quite the...
Nonsense. You say Lady Brockenhurst
may pay you another visit,
why shouldn't I come with her
and see it for myself?
You know her well, then?
Well, I'm engaged to her nephew.
Ah.
That is...
she and I could come together.
Nothing would give me more pleasure,
and now I should be on my way.
Polishing your skills, Miss Speer?
I don't need to polish them,
thank you, Morris.
They're bright enough.
Who's in for luncheon?
I've to go and lay the table.
Just the Mistress and Mrs Oliver,
I think.
The great ladies
have lunch laid for 20 every day.
Then whoever
drops in during the morning
is invited to stay
and eat with them.
No one drops in here,
I'm sad to say.
Ah.
What's Mrs Oliver up to?
She's gone for a drive
with the Mistress
and then she has a dress fitting
this afternoon.
Hasn't she got enough clothes?
Maybe.
But she doesn't have the invitations
to go with them.
What's this?
Just saying Mrs Oliver
would like to get out more.
Then she would be advised
to lower her sights a little.
I don't see that.
Her dad's as rich as Mr Trenchard.
Or nearly.
Money is not the sole criterion,
Miss Speer,
not in the society she aspires to.
She went to Brockenhurst House,
Mr Turton.
You can't ask for more than that.
We will have to wait and see
if the invitation is repeated.
She gets little enough help
from the Mistress.
Mrs Trenchard has more sense.
She knows where she's not wanted.
I don't agree, if you'll pardon me,
Mr Turton.
I'd say she goes where she likes
and she doesn't care
what people think.
I admire her for it.
Then I suggest
you take your admiration
up to the dining room, Morris
and lay the table.
Yes, Mr Turton.
Emma says she's well.
My goodness, what happened?
Nothing, nothing. I, er...
..a window broke
when I was standing near it.
Does this have something to do with
how you spent yesterday evening?
It wasn't one of my best.
You know we have nothing left
to sell except this house?
If you keep going as you are,
we won't have enough
to pay the servants.
Oh, you're being ridiculous.
I mean it!
We pay them little enough as it is.
Don't worry.
I'll... I'll sort it out soon.
Sort your face out first.
Where will he be?
Near the round pond,
but what if I see someone I know?
What could be more innocent
than a chance meeting
in Kensington Gardens?
Of course,
I'm taking a chance on you, Speer.
You'll have enough
to hang me by the end of it.
You can trust me, Mrs Oliver.
I do.
I may be a fool, but I do.
There he is.
The handsome man with the stick?
That's him.
He looks very confident.
Oh, he's quite in charge.
He thinks he is here to seduce me.
So, I'll have
to make him work for it.
He'll be disappointed
if it's too easy.
Oh, Madam. You are a card.
I wasn't sure you'd come.
Nor was I.
CHUCKLES
Do you mind if I sit down?
No, please.
I'm worn out
from the dust and bustle of London.
They seem to be building everywhere.
Yes, I was in Trafalgar Square
this morning.
Nelson's column is taking its time.
Yes.
I keep some rooms in Isleworth
for just that reason.
To get away from all the noise
and the traffic.
Isleworth?
Hmm.
It's only a dining room
and a bedroom,
with a servant to run things, but...
I can escape the city when I want
and breathe clean, fresh air.
How heavenly that sounds.
It's quite a secret.
I've never been to Isleworth,
but isn't it where people
keep orchards
and grow vegetables
for their tables?
Yes, I believe so.
The air must be wonderful.
I must make a pilgrimage
and see it for myself.
Well, I hope you'll let me show you
my hiding place when you do.
I don't think
I could bear to miss it.
Perhaps you could
suggest a day that would suit you?
Perhaps I will.
Shouldn't you be in the office?
I've done enough for one day.
DOOR OPENS LOUDLY
May I have the carriage tomorrow?
I'll need it for most of the day.
Or I can hire one.
No need, why do you want it?
I've an idea
of going out to Isleworth.
There are some kitchen gardens
and orchards for sale
that I'd like to see.
Why would you care?
Oh, I thought
it might be something I'd enjoy.
I'd accompany you if I could.
Don't worry. I'll take Speer.
And, er...
am I expected to buy one of these
kitchen gardens, or orchards?
Or my father might.
I could ask him
if you don't care for the idea.
Well, my dear father-in-law
can certainly afford it.
Erm, would you like me
to come with you?
I should love it.
There are three for us to see
before luncheon
and I have four to visit afterwards.
Then you will go alone.
I'm tired out
by the very idea of it.
Don't ask about my face.
And a good day to you too, father.
He said, "No."
Who?
Your uncle, of course.
What am I to do?
I only have two days left,
or rather, one day, now.
How much did you ask for?
£1,000. I owe Schmitt.
Schmitt?!
Oof.
Then, you'd better pay him.
I know.
You can't think of anyone
who could help me?
Go to a bank.
They know the family has money
that'll come to you and then me.
Couldn't you borrow against that?
I've tried before.
They think my brother is too healthy
and the wait will be too long.
Hmm.
Well, I do know a Polish chap,
Emil Tomaszewski, in the East End.
He could get you the money in time.
How much does he charge?
50%.
50. That's a bit steep.
Yeah, well, that's the going rate
in emergencies.
They have you over a barrel.
Is there really
nothing left to sell?
Only Harley Street
and that's mortgaged to the hilt.
I doubt we'd walk away
with a penny piece.
Well, you must convince the bank,
or visit the Pole.
Do you know who I saw today,
at your uncle's house? Charles Pope.
Trenchard's prodigy?
Was he there again?
He and your aunt were having tea
in her private sitting room.
Hmm.
I caught them as he came out.
Something's going on.
Hmm.
I think she means
to invest in his business.
What?!
Aunt Caroline? Why?
Exactly. Why?
Do we know anything about him?
No.
I don't like the hold he has
over Lady Brockenhurst.
She's making a fool of herself.
How can we find out more about him?
Well, as it happens,
I'm quite friendly
with the younger Mrs Trenchard.
She told me her father-in-law
has known Pope for a while.
How friendly?
Well, I bumped into her
in Kensington Gardens and we talked.
Indeed?
Do you want my help, or not?
Talk to one of their servants.
They know more than anyone.
Yeah, that's not a bad idea.
Mrs Trenchard's maid was with her
when we met. I'll speak to her.
There must be some history
between Charles Pope and Caroline.
If we find it out...
maybe she'll pay
to keep the information secret.
You mean we should blackmail her?
Certainly I do.
And you could start us off
by finding out the secrets
of the Trenchards.
Hmm.
Excuse me. Are you delivering
for Mrs Trenchard?
Mrs Babbage, but yes.
Can you give this to Ms Speer?
She's one of the maids.
Why don't you give it yourself?
Turton? The butler? Hmm.
What makes you think
he'd listen to me?
He likes money, sir.
And you want to talk to Miss Ellis,
the Mistress's maid.
She's been with the family
longer than anyone.
Oh, and she also likes money?
I'd say so, sir.
And how would I meet these two?
You'll find Mr Turton
in the Horse and Groom Pub,
in Groom Place,
just off Belgrave Square.
Hmm.
He's there most days,
before luncheon at noon
and before dinner at six.
Hmm.
Thank you, Miss Speer.
You have been very helpful.
Now I must hurry.
I have to dress Mrs Oliver
for dinner
and we should plan
what she's wearing tomorrow.
For her trip to Isleworth.
CHUCKLES
Oh, I'd be very grateful
if you said nothing
to your mistress about this.
I'm a servant, sir.
We don't tell anything
they don't need to know.
CHUCKLES
Who's going with us to Glanville?
I s'pose I'll be dressing Mr Oliver
as well as the master.
Morris here,
is coming as first footman.
He'd do it, but I don't believe
Mr and Mrs Oliver will go.
Don't you?
I hope not.
Mrs Oliver hates to travel.
She doesn't see the point of it.
Not when all that's waiting
is a draughty house and boredom.
I'm glad I'm going to Glanville.
I enjoy myself when I'm there.
Yeah, of course you do.
You sit there
talking to the local boobies
about the new shops
that have opened in Bond Street
and the new fashions,
and what the Duchess of This
said to the Countess of That,
until they think you've got the ear
of the Queen herself.
She could do worse
than listen to me.
LAUGHTER
What are you talking about?
Miss Ellis has been regaling us
with the delights
of a stay at Glanville.
Don't remind me.
Three days of torture
being shaken to the core,
followed by four weeks
of tedium in a muddy desert.
You've got that in common
with Mrs Oliver.
I have nothing in common
with Mrs Oliver.
Mr Pope is outside, sir,
asking for the honour
of an interview.
Then bring him in.
I hope I don't disturb you,
Mr Trenchard, but I have some news.
Of course not. Won't you sit down?
I... I won't, if you don't mind.
I'm too excited.
Lady Brockenhurst has written.
I saw her yesterday and her letter
arrived this morning at the office.
And it brought good news?
The best of news.
I believe
I have all the money I need.
Nobody has all the money
they need.
With your help and hers,
it means I can pay off the mortgage,
buy new looms
and re-tool the factory.
I can plan my visit to India,
appoint an agent out there
and then sit back and watch
as our production grows.
Not that I will sit back, of course.
And you still have no clue
as to the reason for her interest?
She likes me. I can see that.
But she's never explained
how she came to hear of me
in the first place.
Hmm.
Well, well. One mustn't
look a gift horse in the mouth.
Is that good news too, sir?
I'm a member of the Athenaeum.
They have allowed me to join.
I wonder if Mr Cubitt nudged them
to overcome their distaste.
Nonsense.
Let's test the membership.
We will make them
give us some lunch.
Excuse me. May I help you, sir?
My name is Trenchard.
I'm a new member here.
Ah yes, Mr Trenchard.
Welcome to the club.
Will you be taking luncheon
with us today?
Absolutely!
With Mr Cubitt, sir?
Mr Cubitt? No.
It is customary
for a new member's first luncheon
to be with the person
who proposed them, sir.
Is it a rule?
Not a rule, sir, no. Just a custom.
Well, it is a custom
we must set aside for today.
I am here with my...
with my guest, Mr Pope.
Very good, sir.
To the health of your new venture.
I've, er...
I've made a few calculations
which I'd like to show you.
I see a lot of myself in you.
High praise, Mr Trenchard.
I don't know what I've done
to deserve it.
Excuse me.
I'm very sorry, Mr Trenchard,
but business papers are not allowed
in any part of the building.
And that is a rule, I'm afraid.
Of course.
Thank you, sir.
Does he remind you of Robespierre?
They're very officious, I must say.
They should be proud of any member
with business papers to show.
Should I be worried that you keep
a secret house in Middlesex,
with a grand bedroom
and a silent servant?
Would you rather
we were at my set in Albany?
You should probably get dressed.
I'm dining in town and you
should be home in time to change.
I might give my horse a rest
and come back with you.
If only we could.
Can't we?
My dear.
I'm travelling with Speer
in my husband's carriage.
HUFFS
Where are you meeting your maid?
The Bridge Inn.
Hmm.
Can you help me with this?
Ah.
Do I have to lace it?
No!
That's only for comedies
in the theatre.
The laces are tied, I just need help
with the hooks down the front.
Hmm, right.
Yeah, well, next time,
it might be an idea
if you were to wear something
a little less complicated.
I can hardly walk down the streets
in my dressing gown.
Even for you.
CHUCKLES
Hmm.
Oliver?
How did you know where I was?
They told me at your office.
I've been waiting for 20 minutes.
Mr Pope and I were celebrating.
Mr Pope?
Why is he here?
Well, he's had good news
about his company
and I've just been accepted
as a member of the club.
Your father has been
wonderfully kind and encouraging.
What's the good news?
Someone else is willing to join
Mr Trenchard as an investor.
You seem very adept
at getting people
to put their hands in their pockets.
If only I had your gifts.
That's enough.
If Lady Brockenhurst...
Lady Brockenhurst
will put money into your company...
I must leave you, gentlemen.
I have been away from my desk
long enough.
Would you please enlighten me?
Why does everyone
want to give money to that bumpkin?
What's behind it?
There is some element to this
business that you have left unsaid.
You know his late father
was an old friend of mine.
So old, I've never heard of him.
Have you not?
He asked me to look after his son
when Charles first came to London.
Then you've certainly managed it.
Here, I came to give you these.
Mr Trenchard!
Let me help you.
PAPERS RUSTLE
So... where shall we hold
our next tryst?
You decide.
But what a difference these railways
will make.
Oh, in what way?
We could already go to Brighton
and be back in time for tea.
And soon it will be no more
than five, or six hours
to travel to York.
The prospect makes me feel
quite giddy.
Hmm,
why does everything have to change?
I like things the way they are.
Nothing has to change
about this afternoon.
And now I really must be gone.
Don't make me wait too long
before I see you again.
Is Father home?
Not yet. But he will be soon.
Then let us enjoy a few minutes
of peace before he shows his face.
DOOR BANGS
I wish you wouldn't be so harsh.
Has he spoken to you...
Hmm?
..about the Isle of Dogs?
Yes.
You don't sound very excited.
Should I be?
Normally you're angry
about being left out of things.
I am.
I'm even angrier now.
Your father has gone out on a limb
with Mr Cubitt.
I did not ask him to.
Maybe not,
but it was all on your behalf.
My father has always
wanted me to be something I am not.
It is my fate to disappoint him.
I'm sure that's not true.
It is even more true...
..now that he's found
the perfect embodiment
of all the virtues that I lack.
You mean?
Mr Charles Pope.
I found them lunching together
today.
I wish you did not dislike him so.
One day you may regret it.
You mean when my father has made
Mr Pope his heir and displaced me?
That day will never come.
I went to see an agent.
He's given me descriptions of some
gardens and orchards up for sale.
That being why you said
you were visiting Isleworth.
I thought they might be useful.
So, now I have an alibi?
Mm-hm.
Thank you.
I'm ever deeper in your debt.
We must go.
You're early.
I couldn't work.
I had lunch with Charles today
and he told me
that Lady Brockenhurst...
Thank you, Ellis.
I won't change for dinner quite yet.
Very good, ma'am.
I'll ring when I need you,
but take the pink with you now
and see if you can get the mark out.
We should have a password
for when the coast is not clear.
How sad to think we have
so many secrets that we need one.
Now, tell me more
about your luncheon.
He arrived at the office,
full of the news.
We went to the Athenaeum.
Have you been accepted?
Why didn't you tell me?
I only heard this morning.
I dare say
I shall be asked to leave soon.
Why?
Because she is giving him the money.
And when people learn that,
well, they'll guess the secret.
It's over.
Sophia will be remembered as a slut
and we'll be down in the dirt
with her!
Why didn't I give him
the full amount
when he needed at the start?
Why didn't you?
Because I thought
it would be too easy.
I'll go and speak to her.
What good will that do?
None at all probably,
but it can't do any harm.
Today, at the club...
..I wanted so badly
to tell him the truth.
Oh, Anne.
My heart kept urging me
that he should hear it
from his grandfather,
rather than have it whispered
on every street corner.
But you didn't tell him?
No.
But was I right not to?
James...
..when we put the child away from us
and turned our backs,
we chose a life of lies.
Now those lies
have returned to haunt us...
..and we must manage as best we can.
Mr Turton, is it?
Could be.
Do I know you, sir?
No.
But I understand we might be able
to do some business.
You and me?
I doubt you and I would have
much business in common, sir.
Oh?
But that's where you're wrong.
I'm, erm...
well, I'm looking for some help
in a private matter,
and you could just be the right man
for the job.
Why would you think that?
Well, I've asked
among my acquaintance
and yours was the name
they suggested.
And a Miss Ellis.
The mistress' lady's maid.
Just so.
So, would it be possible for you to
work with Miss Ellis on my behalf?
I need some information
about the Trenchards.
What makes you think
I would betray them?
Oh?
CHUCKLES
Betray is a harsh word, Mr Turton.
I merely want to know more
about the family.
And I am led to believe,
in certain circumstances,
that you might be willing to help.
What circumstances?
Well, there'd be a small reward
for your assistance, of course.
How small?
That rather depends on the results.