Original subtitles

Downloaded from YTS.MX

Official YIFY movies site: YTS.MX

(classical piano music)

- [Voiceover] This is the journal of Penelope Jane Williams.

It is the year 1807.

I am four and 20 years of age,

and I must confess my feelings somehow.

I live in the hope of true love conquering all,

for I am deeply and utterly at the mercy of my heart.

("Moonlight Sonata 1st Movement" by Ludwig Van Beethoven)

I fear I will test your patience

well enough for this part.

- I would test his patience well enough for any part.

(giggles)

- I'm sure with ample practice you will overcome

certain weaknesses.

- Here, allow me to assist.

("Moonlight Sonata 1st Movement" by Ludwig Van Beethoven)

- Delightful, Mr. Reynolds.

I must say you do have an exquisite touch on her.

- Ms. Hargreaves, please.

- I was referring to the piano, my dear.

There was no intention to make you blush.

- Bravo, Mr. Reynolds. Quite the delight as always.

- Well, until next week. (playful string music)

Kind sir.

- Ladies.

- Ladies, I propose some light refreshments

and perhaps a tour of the grounds.

- Splendid!

George...

Would you be a dear and prepare some lemonade?

- As you wish.

- I should just like to discuss

my next lesson with Mr. Reynolds.

I shan't be a moment, I will join you in the garden.

- Very well, it is dreadfully warm in here.

(giggles)

- I must apologize once again.

They were especially playful today.

(peaceful orchestral music)

So, next lesson we really must work on my recital.

We are receiving visitors next week.

Yet more dull evenings of heirs and graces.

- Ah yes, I remember those days.

Dreadful hardships.

- I'm sorry, I didn't mean--

- You are not at fault.

My parents' financial ruin is not yours to consider.

- Such a tragic event.

- The loss of their fortune or the loss of their lives?

- [Penelope] Oh, I--

- It was a long time ago...

And besides, I enjoy working.

I'm able to play my music and spend time with...

Ladies who appreciate it.

- Yes, yes we do!

I do.

(George clears throat)

- Your refreshments are a-waiting, Ms. Williams.

I shall inform the others that you are somewhat attained

and will be along shortly.

- Thank you, George.

I really must be leaving.

The others will start to wonder what has become of me.

- Here, your shawl.

Until next time, Ms. Williams.

- Indeed.

(women giggling)

- [Hargreaves] Where did she go? She's always running away!

Oh, Penelope the little mouse. (playful orchestral music)

I'm sure there's a minx hiding inside of her,

I knew she'd bring it out to me.

(Penelope gasps)

- Mr. Reynolds.

- [Reynolds] Ms. Williams. (peaceful orchestral music)

I'm sorry I startled you.

- What are you doing here?

- I like to walk after our lessons.

So peaceful here...

And my soul breathes more easily.

Usually there's nobody around.

- I usually don't venture this far.

Save for a moment's peace away from the house.

It can seem so airless at times.

- In such a large house?

- T'is not the house that steals the air, Mr. Reynolds.

- I see.

Your secret is safe with me.

- Here my soul also...

Breathes more easily.

- I should be leaving.

- Could we not walk a while?

Immerse our poetic imaginations a little further.

That week my mother had insisted I look my best

as we were expecting callers. (playful music)

An unusual occurrence in our quiet household.

A feeling of foreboding was upon me.

- I enjoy stuffing animals with sand.

- So, Mr. Gelder, you are a Canadian.

- Through and through but please, call me Cuthbert.

My mother does.

(laughs heartily)

- I have a wonderful pheasant collection.

- [Lady Jane] Mr. Gelder, you were saying.

- Cuthbert!

I insist!

(laughs)

Oh I say, terrific wine.

(father chuckles)

- Ah! Penelope, my dear. (chuckles)

I trust you are feeling well.

After all, it has been a lively few days.

I do hope another introduction

will not be too much to bear.

Who is it next, my dear?

- Master Jonathan Alexander.

His father, Charles Alexander is a royal governor.

You danced at their contradance ball together.

They were quite taken with our Penelope.

- We better be on our best behavior once again, eh?

- How is your novel, Father?

- Oh! Really rather good.

I suggest that you take a moment to read it.

- Oh I would be delighted to.

- I really don't think that book is appropriate reading

for Penelope.

- A little racy perhaps but,

nothing that would trouble her unduly.

- There is nothing wrong with the Lord's text.

- It is perhaps important to broaden one's horizons.

I mean, she is after all about to become a married woman.

- It's all part of the moral decline.

- Yes, dear.

(sighs)

(chuckles)

(door knock)

- Master Jonathan Alexander.

Lord and Lady Henry Williams

and their daughter, Penelope.

- [Henry] Welcome! Welcome.

Oh please, do take a seat.

- Oh, thank you sir.

- George, some refreshments, please.

- Madam, may I say what a beautiful home you have.

- Why thank you, Mr. Alexander.

Of course it's nothing compared to your

lovely home but we do our best.

- George.

- Mr. Alexander, do you remember our daughter, Penelope?

You danced together at your mother's contradance ball.

- Yes, the two of you turned quite a few heads that evening.

- Oh I wouldn't have paid any heed to turning heads, sir.

I generally find those evenings rather a bore.

- I see.

- But your daughter, have her made that particular evening

more tolerable than usual.

- Well, each to his own I suppose but,

(chuckles)

I thought she lit up the room.

- Of course, of course.

And she was the only lady who avoided treading on my feet.

(chuckles) (Henry laughs)

(Henry clears throat)

- Mr. Alexander, I gather you're not fond

of social gatherings.

- I prefer the peace and quiet.

- I imagine it must be quite peaceful

on your parents' estate?

- Well, with my father's work

and my mother's endless social functions

I often find I don't have a moment's time to myself.

However we...

Do own a rather substantial property

in the countryside which is promised to me

once I am married.

- How delightful! Do you not think so, Penelope dear?

- Yes, Mother.

I'm sure it is.

- I was rather hoping to have moved in by the summer.

- Well Penelope has always loved the countryside.

Haven't you, my dear?

She has such a fondness for nature.

Down to earth...

And yet well versed with a strong appreciation for the arts.

- Oh I must profess an admiration to the arts myself.

- Oh how utterly splendid!

Oh Penelope, dear, do favour us with a short recital.

- Yes, Mother.

If you will excuse me I shall retrieve my music.

- [Reynolds] Ah, Ms. Williams. - [Penelope] Forgive me, I'm

such a scatterbrain.

I completely forgot my music for the recital.

Have to play now for Mr. Alexander.

He's here at my parents' request and I do notice

how concerned they are that I make a good impression.

(melancholic string music)

- They intend for you to marry?

- But I can not.

Not this man.

My heart...

Why would they choose him?

- I'm sure his fortune holds considerable weight.

- But I do not care for wealth.

I want to marry for love.

The kind that feels no burden.

The kind that is like music to my ears.

- You deserve a gentle life, one without insult.

- It would be an insult to my heart

were I to marry this man.

We would have to move away, to the countryside.

- Before you face the music,

may I be the first to congratulate you, Ms. Williams

on your impending engagement...

And wish you all the happiness.

Now go, play from your heart.

(bell chiming)

- [Voiceover] For as much as Mr. Jonathan Jones Alexander

and Lady Penelope Jane Williams

have consented together in holy wedlock,

I pronounce that they are husband and wife together.

In the name of the Father and of the Son,

and of the Holy Ghost.

Those who God hath joined together,

let no man put asunder.

Amen.

(harrowing string music)

- Ah!

Finally.

Here we are.

- Good heavens, I had no idea it was so--

- Splendid, yes.

Miles from anywhere.

Ah, the staff.

- Oh!

George!

What a pleasant surprise.

It's such a comfort to see a familiar face.

- Thank you, madam. Your father's idea.

Though I dare say Lady Jane was rather

less than enthusiastic.

- I expect so.

How thoughtful of him.

- Indeed.

(Jonathan clears throat)

Ah, allow me to introduce

Fanny and Bessie.

- [Fanny and Bessie] How do you do, sir.

Ma'am.

- Delighted to meet you.

And the rest of the staff?

- Well there's the cook,

stable boy, gardener.

That's all we'll require.

All this busy-bodying about, well,

it rather irritates me.

George, see to the luggage.

- Sir.

- Here we are, sir.

(Jonathan sighs)

May I suggest a little something to help

compose oneself, sir?

- Thank you, George.

(clears throat)

Just need to gather one's thoughts.

- Yes, understandably, sir.

(door knock)

- Sir.

Madam.

If you require anything at all, please do ring the bell.

- George, may I say how grateful I am to have you with us.

- And I am very grateful to continue to be of service

to both you and your very fine new husband.

May you both be blessed.

(tense string music)

- The day was agreeable, was it not?

- Yes, I...

Enjoyed the champagne.

- Yes.

George is quite the connoisseur of fine wines.

Maybe some wine, perhaps?

- Very well. Wine.

Ring that bell there.

(bell ringing)

- A glass of wine, George?

- Certainly, sir.

Will madam require a glass also?

- Yes, please.

Just to warm the blood.

- Ah, perhaps I should collect a few blankets

on the way, madam?

- No no, George.

You go fetch the wine, I'll find a blanket.

- As you wish.

(door knock)

- Enter.

Thank you, George.

Excuse me.

- Is everything all right, madam?

- As much as it ever can be, George.

Thank you, I'll take my husband's.

(coughs)

Thank you.

- Madam.

- Mr. Alexander,

I pray my request does not offend,

but I have never been up so late in all my life

and I fear I may have drunk a little too much wine.

Perhaps we...

Say something, sir, please.

- Well, um...

I don't care too much for...

I think a good night's rest is in order.

However...

My reputation.

- Yes.

- This night's

business shall remain ours,

and ours alone.

- Of course.

Goodnight.

- [Jonathan] Ms. Hargreaves?

- Yes.

Reginalda.

She writes to say that she misses me,

and hopes we are adjusting.

She sends her regards to George.

Say that their butler is a lazy hound.

I think that secretly she's quite fond of our George.

- Oh, nonsense.

She's hardly good enough for the likes of George.

(bell ringing)

- We shall be requiring extra vegetables next Tuesday.

I plan to invite Ms. Hargreaves

and a few guests over for dinner.

- How exciting to be having some visitors, ma'am.

- Don't bother.

We'll not be receiving company.

I'm riding on Tuesday.

All day.

- Could you not ride on Wednesday?

- I will entertain no objections.

(sorrowful orchestral music)

- Ms. Hargreaves would have been suitably impressed.

- Fancy, ma'am?

- Oh.

Thank you.

- Fancy for you, sir?

- It appears my husband is going fancy-free this evening.

- What?

- You should try to be a little more fancy-free.

(Fanny and Bessie giggling)

- Enough! Don't be so absurd.

We're at the table!

What kind of company is this?

- This, is no company at all, husband.

(smashing)

- Oh, George. (George gasps)

- Sir.

- What on earth was that noise?

- I was about to investigate, sir.

I'm sure it's nothing.

- Well, perhaps we should linger a while.

Just to be certain.

- Yes, sir.

While we are lingering, sir,

might I suggest some chocolate

to ward off the night air?

- Yes, wonderful idea.

Bring it to my bed chamber.

I've got a roaring fire.

- [George] Yes, sir.

- Yes.

(George clears throat)

(crackling fire)

(door knock)

Enter.

- Your hot chocolate, sir.

- Ah, yes.

Do come and warm yourself, George.

- Oh.

That's very generous of you, sir.

Thank you for allowing me the use of your

lovely fire, sir.

Mine is a rather poor affair.

It does not throw out the heat as yours does.

- Well perhaps you require an extra blanket or two.

- That's very kind but you need not concern yourself.

Besides...

Standing here...

I...

I'm feeling rather flushed.

(gentle piano music)

Sir.

Well if that's all, I shall...

Bid you goodnight, sir.

- Yes, I'm feeling rather tired myself now.

(clears throat)

Thank you, George.

Here, have this.

- Thank you, sir.

(clock ticking)

- Ah, an exquisite wine, George.

Where did you discover such a fine specimen?

- I'm glad it pleases, sir.

It's from the Earl of Oxford's man servant.

He offered me a number of cases in return for

riding lessons.

- You never mentioned that you rode, George.

- Oh well, the opportunity rarely presents itself, sir.

- Ah, well now.

I insist you accompany me on my ride tomorrow.

- Well, um--

- That's decided then.

Fanny, tell cook we'll bring back some supper.

- [Fanny] Sir.

- If you'll excuse me,

I'm feeling rather exhausted this evening.

I shall retire at once if that is agreeable, husband.

- Oh well whatever you prefer.

You may continue to sleep in the

smaller bed chamber tonight.

In peace and quiet.

- [Bessie] Your chamber is ready, ma'am.

- Thank you, Bessie.

Oh, don't forget my little flower on the pillow.

- Of course not, ma'am.

Kind on you be noticing.

- In that case.

Pray, enjoy your day tomorrow.

I bid you goodnight.

- Perhaps we should carry some of this

wine with us tomorrow.

- Allow me to say...

What a splendid idea, sir.

I very much look forward to it.

- Mm, as do I, George.

As do I.

(wondrous orchestral music)

(gunshot)

(flapping)

- T'is an unaccountable queer arrangement they have, surely.

Each little trip seems to lighten the master's mood some.

(giggles)

Here's praying it continues! (giggles)

- Here's praying it continues.

Cheer up, master Jonathan! Cheer up!

(Bessie and Fanny giggling)

- How delightful to hear some laughter in this house.

How well it sounds.

- Morning, Mrs. Alexander.

Don't be minding us, we're a little giddy today is all.

What brings you in here, ma'am?

Is there something we can get you?

- No no no, please.

Pardon my intrusion.

Truth be told I'm rather at a loose end.

- How about hot tea, ma'am?

- Oh, perhaps.

I am contemplating a turn around the grounds.

- Arthur's been busy with all them flowers blooming.

Gardens look lovely that they do.

Go out in the fresh and get a whiff of the Jasmine, ma'am.

It'd be beautiful.

- I shall. (Bessie and Fanny chuckle)

Do either of you by any chance

know the whereabouts of Mr. Alexander?

- He's out, ma'am.

Went out early morning, so he did.

- Of course.

Well, no harm done.

Yes, I feel the need for some air.

I shall walk out.

- Certainly, ma'am.

On your lonesome?

- I'm alone most of the time.

I shall leave you to your giddiness.

(all chuckle)

(dark orchestral music)

That evening I had decided to confront Jonathan and George.

Their being together wasn't the real reason for my anger.

In fact, what I had seen explained many things

that had puzzled me.

- Madam, I beg you.

If you pace any longer, the rug will be worn bare.

Is there something you wish to say?

- As a matter of fact, there is.

I just require a moment.

(George clears throat)

- Good evening, sir. Good evening, madam.

- Ah yes, George, good. I wish to speak with you also.

- I beg your pardon, madam.

I hope it is of not too urgent a nature,

as I have some rather sad news to impart.

- What is it, George? Are you all right?

What news is this?

(harrowing orchestral music)

- It is about Arthur the gardener.

A rather tragic accident.

I'm sorry to say that he is no longer with us.

You see, he was rolling the lawn and,

he stopped to pick up a piece of bramble,

and unfortunately that part of the garden

is on a slightly sloping slope.

So, as he bent down to retrieve the offending bramble,

the roller began to...

- Good heavens.

How awful!

Poor, poor Arthur.

We must send word to his family at once.

I shall arrange a basket.

- Yes.

George, I shall arrange for an appropriate sum of money

to be sent to his family.

- Thank you, sir. You are very generous.

Oh, madam.

You wished to speak to me?

- Please, do not concern yourself tonight with my wishes.

You have more than enough to contend with

and we are all in a terrible state of shock.

If, husband, you will excuse me I shall arrange

the basket for Arthur and then I shall retire.

Such a shock this is.

- Ah my dear Penelope, I shall arrange for the basket.

You must get some rest.

Not let this distress you so.

I shall arrange for some tea.

Perhaps also a bath?

George?

- At once.

- Splendid.

Sleep well, my dear.

- Thank you, sir.

(Jonathan sighs)

- Dreadful matter all this.

Are you all right, George?

You're terribly pale.

- Oh yes, sir.

It was just rather...

- [Jonathan] Dreadful. I can imagine.

- [George] Yes, quite unpleasant.

- Not to be too insensitive but,

we are rather in need of a new gardener.

One not too attentive.

Just for the job in hand, shall we say.

- I understand.

I shall endeavour to find someone

who will satisfy the requirements of the post, sir.

- And perhaps later,

I can endeavour to satisfy some of your requirements.

- Mm.

(upbeat orchestral music)

(horse hooves clacking)

- It was the next day,

and I had planned once again to confront Jonathan and George

when my plan was thwarted due to a surprise visit

from my ever-gracious mother.

Mother, how do you do?

Such a pleasant surprise!

- Lady Jane.

I trust you had a pleasant journey?

- Well it would have been, had we not encountered

a public hanging on our way here.

- Really? I hadn't heard that--

- Oh, being master of the house, Mr. Alexander,

one would have assumed you would attuned

to the goings on in the local village.

Especially due to the nature of the affair.

Such unpleasantness.

Really despicable conduct.

To indulge in such a heinous act.

With no perception of the gravity of it.

I really don't know how two men can...

The world should be rid of such sin.

They deserve to burn in hell.

(clattering)

George!

What has come over you?

- Please forgive me, madam.

- Well...

Let's not dwell on such disgraceful matters.

I really came to see how you were finding married life.

(Jonathan clears throat)

- Um.

- We are still adapting.

Perhaps we should venture into the garden.

The views are quite stunning.

- Ah.

There is a chill in the air.

Let's just, you and Mr. Alexander go.

- Oh, but you have come all this way to visit.

- Besides, myself and George need to discuss arrangements

for tomorrow.

- Pray!

What are these arrangements so urgent?

Something for us all?

- Mr. Alexander, is hunting tomorrow.

With George.

- I beg your pardon. Did I hear you correctly?

- I've invited him along to accompany me on my rides.

- George?

He's a butler, is he not?

- Yes.

Mrs. Alexander?

- I asked you question, sir.

- Allow me to say, Lady Jane, it is purely a

temporary arrangement.

Isn't that so, Mrs. Alexander?

- If such things can ever really

be temporary.

- You should listen to your wife, Mr. Alexander.

You must not indulge your servants so.

You need to make your position known.

- Hm, his position is known.

He needs to be shown, Mother.

- [Lady Jane] Quite so, Penelope.

- Well, if you'll excuse me.

I have some business to attend to.

Good day!

- [Penelope] Is Father still on his travels?

- He's heading an expedition.

Hunting.

(melancholic piano music)

Good day.

- [Penelope] As my mother left, I longed to go with her.

Anything to escape the solitude of this marriage.

I knew something had to change and soon

before I lost my mind.

Thank heavens we had taken to sleeping

in separate bed chambers.

For I required the time alone to determine my words

once and for all.

I simply had to air my feelings.

That evening gave me the opportunity I required.

I knew what I wanted to say

and felt ready to declare my feelings.

I just had to take a breath.

- [George] Sir, madam.

- Yes, George.

- I would like to introduce you to our new gardener.

(warm orchestral music)

Mr. Richard Reynolds.

- [Jonathan] Ah, yes!

Very good to meet you.

- Thank you, sir.

- [George] I believe you already know Mrs. Alexander.

- [Richard] Madam.

- If I might explain, sir.

Mr. Reynolds used to be Mrs. Alexander's music tutor

before her marriage to yourself.

Now, Mr. Reynolds is quite the admirer,

of nature, and quite the gardener

and perhaps some music lessons would provide a welcome

distraction for Mrs. Alexander?

- Splendid!

Good buy, George.

I'm sure Mrs. Alexander will be delighted to

resume her music lessons.

My dear?

- Um, yes.

- Good, good.

Richard, was it?

Excellent!

Welcome to the estate.

George will show you to your cottage.

Well, the gardens and general

upkeep of the household main responsibility

and I guess the old music lesson

here and there won't go a miss.

- [Richard] Thank you, sir.

- Good!

Splendid.

A man of few words also.

Marvellous.

Get yourself settled, man!

George, if you would.

- Sir.

Madam.

- Hm, handsome chap.

(unsettled orchestral music)

(door knock)

- Ms. Williams.

Mrs. Alexander.

What are you doing here?

- I...

(sighs)

- Come in.

(fire crackling)

- I had to see you.

How is it that you are here?

- You sent for me.

- George, of course.

- Penelope, I have to ask, is it safe for you to be here?

- Without question.

We lead separate lives.

The wedding night was not...

We have separate bed chambers, we've never...

Please.

Forgive my indiscretion.

(peaceful orchestral music)

Oh, the joy.

The happiness.

I wanted to burst.

The love I was feeling was a like a river glistening,

flowing through me.

I yearned to share it, let Jonathan know how happy I was.

It would have been so much easier if we could all have

expressed our true feelings and been open in our love,

but I understood his predicament.

Jonathan's situation was far more scandalous than mine.

This is an absolutely wonderful play, Jonathan.

- Hm?

- This play!

The passion in the writing.

- What's it about then?

- It's about a wounded soldier and his

journey home to reunite with his beloved.

- Ah yes, I recall, by that...

Benjamin fellow.

Yes.

Interesting story.

- Well this is where she sees him, for the first time.

Perhaps we could have a little fun and...

Play the scene together?

I shall begin.

The thought of him is all there is

that keeps me from a darker place.

(melancholic piano music)

Sophia, what is it?

That is where you enter, Jonathan.

- Oh, very well. (playful music)

Over continents, I have vowed to return.

The distance between us was truly painful to me.

My soul lies with you.

- My love!

It explains here that they embrace upon his return.

Oh, do let's try it again.

- (sighs) Very well.

I'll arrive there and, um...

You go over yonder by the bench, yes?

- Hm!

(Jonathan clears throat)

- You may begin.

- The thought of him is all there is

that keeps me from a darker place.

Sofia, what is it?

- Over the continents, I have vowed to return.

The distance between us was truly painful to me.

My soul lies with you.

- My love!

(tense orchestral music)

- Madam.

The roses you requested.

- How exquisite.

- Mr. Reynolds.

- Sir.

- Our music lesson, this afternoon.

Yes?

- Of course, madam. Three o'clock as planned.

- [Jonathan] Ah, Richard. - [Richard] I will be waiting.

- I was rather hoping, with all this good weather,

you would have seen to the croquet lawn by now.

I require it done today.

Your music lesson will have to wait.

- I shall attend to it immediately.

- [Jonathan] So! Where were we?

- Well it doesn't really...

It's rather warm.

Perhaps you should rest and enjoy the sun.

- Very well.

(dark orchestral music) (wind blowing)

(cutlery clinking)

- Is everything all right, husband?

- Mm-hm.

(tense orchestral music)

- It was lovely in garden yesterday reading the play,

don't you think?

- Very pleasant, yes.

- Has something distressed you?

- No. (clears throat)

- Forgive me, you appear to be

a little under the weather this morning.

- I did not have a good night's sleep!

And yourself?

- Um, yes!

- And how was the bed in your room?

Comfortable?

Enough blankets?

(Bessie chuckles)

- My bed is perfectly adequate, thank you.

Do you require more blankets?

- Thank you, no.

The condition of my bed is no concern of yours.

- Perhaps we could read some more of the play

this afternoon.

- I'm riding today.

All day with George.

We've spotted some deer over by the lake

and I'm rather keen to shoot something.

- Might I suggest Mrs. Alexander have a piano lesson

this afternoon?

- [Jonathan] With Mr. Reynolds?

- Well he is the piano teacher, sir.

- Yes, of course.

A music teacher and a gardener.

It's amazing the amount of things he's able to attend to.

Settled into his new cottage has he?

- Oh I would imagine he has.

- Fanny? Bessie?

Would you say Mr. Reynolds is settling in well?

- I'm sure I don't know, sir.

I'm sure I don't know, but,

he ain't no trouble to us, sir.

- Well he generally always brings us

the vegetables on time.

If pleases you, sir, I'll go and ask him, sir.

- No no, I'm sure he's settled into his duties all right!

You may clear the table. (dark orchestral music)

(peaceful orchestral music)

(Penelope giggling)

(ominous orchestral music)

(door knock)

- You sent for me, husband.

- Yes, take a seat.

(clears throat)

I've come to a decision,

and that is that...

Mr. Reynolds must go. (tense orchestral music)

The garden's not being maintained to my required standards.

The croquet lawn is too dry and his

constant racket of music is intolerable, he must go.

- How can you say that?

The gardens are impeccable.

And his music...

His music fills this house with joy and light!

How can you say such things?

- I have made my decision, he must go!

- Without one good reason?

- I've mentioned the croquet lawn.

- You never play!

- The music!

- The music fills the silence you bestow on me.

- This is my house, my word is law!

- Well, I have to reside here.

As your wife.

Surely I deserve some say in the matter.

- You certainly have some fancy ideas.

And you certainly do not behave as my wife!

More like a wench.

- How dare you!

I will not go back to way things were!

You have your...

I don't understand.

I thought we were getting along so well.

What has distressed you so?

Richard is not at fault here.

He is a hard worker and is obliging to all the staff.

- Well, not to me!

Do you think I don't see, hm?

The maids, sniggering behind my back.

The way you behave around him.

I know what's going on.

I've seen you, sneaking off to his house

in the middle of the night.

How could you disrespect me so?

I'm the master of this house!

- How could I disrespect you?

And as for master of this house,

I have more of a gasp of the goings on

than you could possibly imagine.

And I wonder which...

Of our...

Respective behaviours...

Would do the utmost damage to your good name.

- Whatever are you talking about?

- It would appear...

That I am not the only one...

Being obliged.

- How dare you suggest--

- It would be such...

A calamitous scandal.

For all of us.

Do you not agree?

Richard stays.

- What?

- Richard stays.

(melancholic orchestral music)

- But we're not doing anything wrong.

If others could understand...

- It is not the way of this world, I fear.

Let us be happy while we may.

- [Penelope] Richard, I've had two horses saddled.

Let us go riding together!

- I cannot. I have to attend to my duties.

- I wish to go riding with you.

Trust in me, Richard, please.

The day is ours.

(wistful orchestral music)

This is the lake I was telling you about.

- It's beautiful.

- I know you'd like it here.

- It's magnificent.

- And totally secluded.

- I've been swimming here since I was a boy.

- I'm so glad I found this place.

- It is beautiful.

- And the perfect day, for a swim!

- [Penelope] That's the spirit!

(splash)

- Ah!

Come on, George!

The water's glorious!

(splashing)

Come on!

- Richard!

Look.

- It's Jonathan and--

- George, yes!

This is what I've been meaning to tell you.

Come on.

- What are you doing?

- Shh!

(Penelope screaming and laughing)

- Lady Alexander!

Madam, we were just--

- Are you just going for a swim? (giggles)

Jonathan, George,

I do believe you know our gardener, Richard.

- Gentlemen.

- Mr. Reynolds.

- Oh Richard, this is my husband, Jonathan

and George who is our trusted butler,

and my husband's right-hand man.

(laughing)

Well don't just stand there in ceremony, Richard.

Join us!

(giggling)

(all laughing and talking over each other)

(Fanny chuckling)

- Look, I'm a ghost.

(Fanny and Bessie giggle)

I came back as a lady.

Oh!

(Bessie giggling)

Oh!

- [Bessie] Oh!

(Bessie and Fanny giggling)

- [Bessie] Oh stop it, Fanny!

(giggling)

- Oh, me thinks I shall faint with all the goings on.

(Bessie gasps)

(Bessie and Fanny scream and giggle)

- Bessie.

With your hair colour...

I would have favoured the gold.

(playful orchestral music)

(giggles)

For you!

(Penelope and Fanny laughing)

- Thank you, ma'am.

That were you that were, with all that perfume and all.

- [Fanny] Butter my wig, the look on her face.

I thought us for the gallows! - [Bessie] I know!

Should have got a proper dish of tonnes.

Don't understand.

What about that dress, eh?

She said how pretty I looked. (Fanny chuckles)

Don't wanna be wearing this slunky old thing now.

- Well you better get used to it.

- I suppose so.

- Don't look like our guests are arriving.

I'll go see if she wants us to hold off a while.

She says they're here already!

- [Bessie] I ain't seen anyone arrive.

You sure you heard her right?

- Well, that's what she says.

Come on, let's go plate up.

(playful orchestral music)

- Oh George, stop fussing and sit down.

- Thank you, sir.

- As we're about to dine together, may I suggest

that we all use our Christian names?

- Yes.

We're equals now, in our secret little society.

- Yes, sir.

Thank you...

Penelope. (Penelope chuckles)

(clock ticking)

(playful orchestral music)

- What a curious day.

Charming also.

But the world at large I'm sure would not agree.

- For we are wiser than they.

For any true happiness can be achieved by

abandoning barriers.

- Here here.

- Ah, Richard is right all the same.

We must be discreet.

It may prove to be a challenge.

- But jolly good fun, eh!

(all chuckle)

- [Penelope] Yes!

- Well, carry on, Bessie.

Don't mind me.

(Fanny gasps)

- Do excuse me, I...

Do apologize for my clumsiness, I...

- [Bessie] Here, let me help you.

I didn't know what to do.

- Ladies ladies, some decorum, please.

- Yes we do have guests, you know.

- Certainly, George.

Sir.

I'll just go and...

More bread.

- Will you be expecting nought else?

No?

I'll just, um...

(group laughing)

- [Richard] To us. - [George] To us.

- [Bessie] Are we expecting anyone today?

- [Fanny] At this hour?

- [Bessie] Oh look!

- [Fanny] Oh.

- Let's go find George.

- Aye, if he's still our butler that is.

- Oh my lord.

Whatever's gone on here then?

(playful orchestral music)

Sir, ma'am!

Wake up!

Wake up!

- Bessie? What time is it?

- Never mind that.

We've got visitors.

They're here and almost at the door!

- Jonathan, sir.

Madam.

Mr. Reynolds.

We have visitors.

(Cuthbert laughing)

- We really should have announced our arrival.

It's monstrous naughty turning up here

on the doorstep like this.

- Yes and of course, drinking in the day,

how utterly scandalous.

(Reginalda chuckles)

We should be punished!

- Well that would certainly loosen up those social mores!

- Oh! Hm. (Reginalda giggling)

Mm.

(door knock)

(Reginalda giggling)

(George clears throat)

- Well it's about time, man.

Cuthbert Gelder and uh,

Ms. Hargreaves.

- Ah, yes sir.

I believe we met at Lord Williams' residence.

And uh...

Ms. Hargreaves,

your presence has been missed.

- Well if Penelope weren't stuck all the way out here

I should come and visit more often.

How do you do, George?

(kiss)

So lovely to see you again!

- A pleasure as always.

- Well as lovely as it is to be here, chap,

we have news to deliver.

Yes. Hm?

- Yes, sir.

Of course.

Please follow me.

(Reginalda yelps and giggles) (Cuthbert chuckles)

(clears throat)

Mr. Gelder and Ms. Hargreaves.

- Mr. Alexander. Pleasure it is to meet you.

- Mr. Gelder.

- Call me Cuthbert, I insist.

- [Jonathan] Cuthbert.

- Mrs. Alexander, a pleasure to meet you again as well

and yet in rather different circumstances this time.

- My dear Penelope.

It's been so long, how are you?

And Mr. Alexander.

The last time we met was at your wedding, I believe.

- Yes, uh...

(Reginalda giggles) A good day altogether.

- Please, do take a seat.

George.

Some refreshments, please.

- George, do be dear.

- [George] Oh.

Of course.

- Well, how delightful to see you again.

To what do we owe the pleasure of this,

surprise visit?

- Well, we simply couldn't wait to tell you

that Cuthbert and I are engaged to be married!

(Penelope gasps)

- Yes! Meet the soon to be Mrs. Reginalda Gelder!

(Cuthbert and Reginalda giggle)

Don't you like the way that sounds?

(laughing)

- [Penelope] Congratulations. - [Jonathan] Congratulations.

Marriage, I can highly recommend it.

(clears throat) - [Penelope] Yes.

- Sir, madam.

I've replaced the flowers, will that be all?

- Mr. Reynolds!

What the devil are you doing here?

- Uh, Mr. Reynolds is our gardener.

Our previous one passed away, unexpectedly.

- Gardener? But Mr. Reynolds is a music teacher.

- A man of many talents by all accounts.

- Yes, I have my music lessons laced with horticulture.

It's quite enlightening.

- I can imagine!

- If you'll excuse me.

(Jonathan clears throat)

- How quip.

- Well. (chuckles)

Anyways, let's liven this up a little, shall we?

- Well...

We do only live once.

I know it's terribly scandalous at this time in the morning

but we were hoping

that you would join us in toasting our engage,

oh!

(playful music) (Jonathan clears throat)

- [Jonathan] Well, um...

♫ For perhaps we may not

♫ For perhaps we may not

♫ For perhaps we may not be here

♫ Again tomorrow

♫ For perhaps we may not

♫ For perhaps we may not

♫ For perhaps we may not be here

♫ Again tomorrow

- Ah, duty is so rich, so infinite that we,

like savages may worship it!

- Ah!

We need a princess and a Catherine to complete the scene.

- Oh, we need more women folk.

- Aye!

- Where are all the wenches when you need them?

- The maids! (Penelope gasps)

- I shall fetch them at once!

(group laughs)

Good heavens, you must have read my mind.

I was just coming to fetch you.

- [Fanny] Sorry ma'am, we were just--

- Going to the kitchen.

- Well never mind that.

We have a rather unusual request for you both.

Please, come and join us.

May I present, the ladies!

(group cheering)

- Ladies, ladies.

Welcome to the theatre of the preposterous!

- Haha! Welcome, welcome!

- Never fear, ladies, t'is all in fun.

Perhaps this might help.

- But, this ain't proper and...

We've many chores that need seeing to.

- Oh, worry not about your work.

For tonight, you will make merry with us.

- [Richard] Aye!

- Well if it pleases you, ma'am.

- What are you doing? (Penelope giggles)

- Blimey.

That's much better than that there cooking sherry.

- Ho ho! Yes!

- I don't understand.

- It's only a bit of fun.

Besides, it's nice to have a bit of distraction

from the cleaning up, love.

- Bravo, Fanny. Bravo!

I think you will make a wonderful princess

and Bessie you shall be our Catherine.

- Yes!

- Perhaps a little more wine and we'll be willing

to have a go. (group laughing and cheering)

- Here Fanny, you must be the princess!

Right!

White handed mistress,

one sweet word with thee.

- Honey and milk and sugar,

there are three.

(group cheering)

- Two threes!

And if you grow so nice.

- Seventh sweet, A, D.

A, D...

- Adieu, it means goodbye, in French.

- (giggles) I'm speaking French now, I dunno.

(group laughing)

- Seventh sweet adieu...

Since you can cheat, I'll play no more

with you.

(group cheering)

- She's a natural.

- I'm not awful fond on reading, sir.

- Oh don't fret, Bessie.

You'll get the hang of it.

- [Bessie] I don't know.

- Have a little bit of wine.

- Here, allow me.

Just repeat after me.

(group talking over each other)

- White handed mistress,

one sweet word with thee.

- Honey and milk and sugar, there is three!

(group laughing)

- Two threes and if you grow so nice,

mead and sweet beer and sugar wine.

Well run, dice!

- Will you not dance? How come you thus astrayed?

- You took the moon at full but now she's changed!

- Play music then, nay, you must do it soon.

Not yet, no dance.

Thus change I like the moon!

- Farewell, mad wenches for you have simple wits.

- Twenty adieus, my frozen Muscovits.

(group cheering)

Come on, Bessie, we can't be up all the night.

We do need to be up early morning.

Ma'am.

- Farewell!

- Fare thee well, mad wenches!

- Farewell! (Penelope giggling)

♫ For perhaps we may not

♫ For perhaps we may not

♫ For perhaps we may not be here

♫ Again tomorrow

♫ Wine wine cures the gap

♫ Wine wine cures the gap

♫ Wine wine cures the gap ♫

(Penelope laughing)

(tense orchestral music)

- What a lovely time we had last night.

Better working here than anywhere else, eh?

- I suppose.

Surely it ain't fitting for us to make merry when there are

matters that go on here that ain't proper.

According to the good book, like.

- [Fanny] With the mistress and Mr. Reynolds?

- Oh, that also but...

George and master?

Then there was another hanging the other week.

- Oh.

So that's why he don't mind about the mistress.

We have to bite our tongues, don't we?

It would be a shame if all the merriment stopped.

I don't mind, just like being happy.

- Ah, Fanny.

I was hoping you might collect a few items

from the market today.

- Certainly, sir.

I was going anyways.

(melancholic orchestral music)

(door knock)

(tense orchestral music)

Mr. Kendrick, the parson from the local parish.

- Mr. Kendrick, allow me to present my wife,

Mrs. Alexander.

- Delighted to make your acquaintance, Mrs. Alexander.

You really must forgive my sudden appearance,

but I do like from time to time to ascertain

the circumstances of my parishioners.

All of my parishioners.

Even the ones I have not yet

seen at church.

- We are aware of that, Mr. Kendrick.

It's taken us a little longer than expected to

adjust to married life.

Wouldn't you say, my dear? - [Penelope] Oh, certainly.

Please, Mr. Kendrick, do take a seat.

Some tea perhaps?

- No.

Not for me, thank you.

I really must make this a short visit.

- Oh well please accept our deepest apologies.

Time has run away with us.

We shall of course be attending.

- Good, good.

We have of course experienced...

Unpleasant times of late.

- How so, Mr. Kendrick?

- I refer, sir, to the recent hangings.

Sinners, who are the very scourge of our society.

You know of course sir, that they were...

Forgive me, madam...

Sodomites.

(ominous music)

- I tell you they should be,

struck down by the wrath of the Lord.

To burn in hell!

- Amen.

We should all abide by the good book.

Lead clean and pure lives.

With no cause

for raised eyebrows.

- Well we try our best, Mr. Kendrick.

- Well, I see that we are reading from the same page,

as it were.

I do regret having to meet you under such circumstances

and to make this meeting as brief as it has been but,

I really must be on my way.

I look forward to seeing you in church.

I bid you all good day.

(Fanny sobbing)

- I feel the need of a small restorative

after that encounter.

(Fanny sobbing)

Fanny?

Fanny.

(Fanny sobbing)

What ever's the matter? (sorrowful music)

- George...

I'm not worthy to be in this household.

You lot show me nought but kindnesses

and this is how I go and repay you.

- Calm down, Fanny,

and tell me what is it?

- Then there was the hangings.

George...

What have I done?

- I don't know, Fanny.

What have you done? (ominous music)

- Mr Kendrick...

Was here...

Because of me.

I had a speak with him when I went in the village.

I shall leave at once.

I'm so sorry.

(sobbing)

- [Penelope] George, has she really gone?

- [George] I'm afraid so.

I did try to prevent her but,

she was dreadfully upset.

- I cannot believe she told the parson.

- Well, on reflection it is not entirely clear

what she did tell him.

Mr. Kendrick seemed satisfied by what he'd seen

and heard here.

And he was especially impressed by your remarks

about hell and damnation, Jonathan.

Jonathan?

Sir.

Perhaps we should retire to our bed chambers.

It has been a rather eventful day.

- I agree.

Maybe the morning will bring some clarity,

for we are all rather fretful tonight.

Shall we?

- Goodnight.

- Jonathan, perhaps we could--

- No, George.

(sombre piano music)

I would prefer my own company tonight.

That is all.

You may go.

Goodnight.

- We were all so heartsick at the circumstances

we now found ourselves in.

Jonathan became withdrawn and poor dear George

did not know what to do.

We were all plagued with worry and

yet we had to persist in our charade.

For yet again, my mother had come to visit.

Mother, so good to see you.

- [Lady Jane] Good day to you too.

- Lady Jane.

- After a most unpromising beginning,

marriage appears to become you.

You seem much settled, since my last visit.

- Oh yes, Mother.

There have been

quite a few changes since then.

- Mr. Alexander, he is?

- He is wonderful.

I do believe we are pleasing to one another.

- Hm.

That sounds well, my dear.

And his authority over the servants?

They need to know their place.

I trust and assume

that is why you now have a vacancy?

- Why yes, Mother.

Jonathan has become much more

self-possessed.

(clears throat)

Mr. Reynolds, I really must insist you attend

to the herb garden, it is quite overgrown

and the lavender pots are becoming rather unruly!

- At once, madam.

- My my.

Faultless conduct, my dear.

That is precisely how to get things done.

(sighs)

It pleases me that I've taught you so.

Keep up the good word, my dear.

You govern well.

(bleak orchestral music)

- Excuse me, sir.

I was just...

- I'm sorry to intrude.

- No, sir...

You are the master of the house.

It is I who am intruding.

Forgive me.

- Are you looking to advertise for a new maid?

- I am requesting a position

at the McIntyre house.

In the Highlands.

I felt it best that,

under the circumstances,

that I should leave.

- Leave?

But why?

- Well...

Sir.

I have noticed how distant

you have become toward me.

I understand the precarious position

I have put you in.

So...

I fear that...

I can no longer continue to be of service to you.

While my heart...

Is...

While my heart is...

(peaceful orchestral music)

I'm sorry.

I thought-- - [Jonathan] No, George...

T'is I who must apologise.

I've been rather unfair.

I needed time to...

You see,

I did not want to put you in any danger.

So I withdrew.

I've missed you so very much.

- And I you.

- I'm so glad to be back.

I didn't like the other house.

I weren't allowed to practice my reading.

And I did miss you all so.

- As did we.

I told you she'd be back!

- We're all very thankful to have you with us

once again, dear Fanny.

But...

I do have to ask you,

what exactly did you say to Mr. Kendrick?

- Never said nothing about no one.

Nor what goes on.

I might have mentioned I was learning new ways,

about the acting and all.

I was a bit...

Confused.

But...

I swear.

I never said nought about nought.

You're all good people here and...

I can't feel it to be...

So wrong, even though we have to hide it and all.

And as for Mr. Kendrick, well I overheard he's himself,

quite accepting and things.

Manly things, you know?

- Mr. Kendrick? (men chuckle)

Mr. Kendrick?

(all chuckling)

- The moon, she is full!

Come witness this magical sight.

(melancholic orchestral music) (women giggling)

- [Jonathan] Hey, diddle diddle!

The cat and the fiddle!

And the cow that jumped over the moon!

(laughing)

- [Fanny] The little dog laughed to see such sport!

(Bessie giggling)

And the dish ran away with the spoon!

(Bessie screaming and giggling)

- Come on, George!

(upbeat orchestral music) (Bessie and Fanny giggling)

(George roaring)

- Shall we?

(Richard laughing)

- Let me reach for the moon!

(all laughing)

(ominous music) (Penelope panting)

My love?

(Fanny and Bessie giggling and screaming)

- Good morning to you fine ladies.

- Good morning to you, fine sir.

- Fine sir. (Bessie and Fanny laugh)

And this is for Penelope?

- Indeed, I snuck out early.

Is she still asleep?

She must very tired after last night.

- You devil.

- You've worn her out, so you have.

- Behave, Bessie!

We're not having no such talk.

Not before breakfast anyhow.

(Bessie and Fanny giggle)

- Perhaps she would take her breakfast in bed?

- I'll take it to her, Bessie.

The way she looks at me in the morning,

well I'll never tire of it.

- [Bessie] Aw. - [Fanny] Aw.

Go on with yourself, Romeo.

(Richard humming)

(Penelope moaning)

- Penelope, my love.

Are you all right?

(Penelope moans)

(sombre string music)

- The fever does not abate,

and her condition grows worse.

I can't mislead you, I fear for her future.

But I will return in the morning and we must

never lose hope.

- [Fanny] Time to get our maid heads on.

- Look.

That's all we need.

(clock ticking) (wind blowing)

- Was there something in particular you wish to say,

Mr. Alexander?

(Jonathan clears throat)

- Well, um...

(clears throat)

- Oh for goodness sakes, boy, do spit it out!

- Well I was simply going to ask,

how long you intend to stay.

Simply so I can inform the staff.

You understand.

- My dear sir...

I am aware that our association

is less than amicable at times.

In these melancholy times, it is particularly difficult

to maintain one's dignity.

And yet, I sit here with you trying to eat

what may very well be the last meal I take as a mother.

- Ah yes, of course.

You may stay as long as you wish.

- Thank you.

I should like to see my daughter once more

before I retire this evening.

- Might I suggest some--

- No you may not! (dark orchestral music)

Suggest!

I shall inform you should I require anything further.

My husband will be arriving in the morning.

You need to inform your servants, Mr. Alexander.

In the meantime might I suggest that your butler

retires to the scullery until he is required?

Goodnight. (dramatic orchestral music)

- I...

I better do as she says.

(door closing)

(tense orchestral music)

- Found him skulking around upstairs, a thief!

- Ah no, not so, Lady Jane.

Mr. Reynolds is our gardener. He was probably just--

- I was just trying to--

- You were in my daughter's bed chamber this time of night.

How dare you!

You should be sent to the gallows.

- No no, Lady Jane.

Mr. Reynolds, he removes any...

Wilting flowers at this time.

He's very superstitious about allowing only

healthy flowers in my wife's bed chamber.

Given her very delicate constitution.

Isn't that so, Mr. Reynolds? - [Richard] Yes.

- I'll have none of this!

I'll remove all the flowers from my daughter's bed chamber

in the morning.

Reynolds has no reason to be anywhere near this house,

or you'll have more than your superstitions to be worrying

about when you are out on the streets.

Get out of my sight.

(Lady Jane humming)

(door knock)

- How is she?

- She's getting weaker by the hour.

- Perhaps I should take over now.

Allow you some rest.

- I would like to stay with my daughter.

- You can do no more for her tonight, Lady Jane.

I should like some time alone with my wife.

- Very well.

But you must inform me of the slightest change.

- Without question.

(howling wind)

- I know that our spirits are low,

and that we're very anxious.

I should like to try something, rather unusual.

- Certainly.

Whatever we can do must be better than nought.

- What need we do?

- I would do anything if it would help her.

(Jonathan sighs)

- You do not deserve this.

Please get well, my dear.

We are not complete without you.

You are my trusted companion.

And I miss you.

And I love you.

(door creaking)

George?

- Excuse me, Jonathan.

This is something I should have told you about myself.

However, we are short of time

and for Penelope's sake,

I must ask you now to trust me.

Please.

(tense orchestral music)

Now please, enter the circle.

In the name of the blessed and holy trinity

I do desire thee,

strong and mighty angels,

Belanos, Gabriel and Azrael

that if it be the divine will

of him who is called Tetragrammaton,

and the holy god, the father,

that thou take upon thee some shape

that best becometh thy celestial nature

and appear visibly before us in this place.

Bring the cure to your wounded child

here on Earth, Penelope

that all things may work together for thine honour

and glory to whom with thee

the son and blessed spirit

be ascribed all might, majesty

and dominion,

world without end.

Amen.

- [Group] Amen.

- So might it be.

(group chants "So might it be")

- Get out.

- [Group] So might it be.

So might it be.

So might it be.

So might it be.

So might it be.

So might it be.

So might it be.

(dramatic orchestral music)

- Oh my dear husband, thank goodness you've arrived!

- Yes. I came as fast as I could.

(Lady Jane sobbing)

How is Penelope?

Has there been any change?

- I've had the most distressing night of my life.

- Oh dear God, no.

Get out of my way, woman!

(Lady Jane mumbling)

- And then Jonathan, he yelled at me!

- Enough!

For heaven's sake, calm yourself, woman!

I have been travelling all night to be with my

dying daughter and I have no patience for your wittering!

I have to see Penelope so stop your ranting

and tell me where she is!

- She's in that room down there,

but who knows what you may find.

She may never be the same again.

Our daughter has gone quite, quite mad.

(Henry chuckles)

- My dear lady.

May I suggest,

that you take a few moments

and retire to your bed chamber.

Think about what you are saying!

Nobody would want to see you

humiliated, my dear.

Nobody.

Would you not agree?

(sighs)

(Lady Jane sobs)

(sombre orchestral music)

(dove cooing)

(doves cooing)

Penelope.

Penelope, my dear.

Can you hear me?

- Yes, Father.

I can hear you.

- Oh.

It's a miracle.

- I can't, I can't believe it!

Are you really awake?

- Let her speak, man.

How do you feel?

- Famished.

I could eat a horse and chase the rider.

(Jonathan and Henry laugh)

- She's awake!

Penelope is awake!

- She's awake.

(Fanny and Bessie sobbing)

- [Penelope] It was a miracle and we all knew

it was George who made it possible.

I owed my life to him.

But at his request we never spoke of that night.

He seemed uncomfortable at receiving so much praise.

I recovered quickly,

and after two weeks I was well.

The doctor was of the opinion that a strong influenza

had been the cause

and that I was now entirely cured

and carried no trace of illness.

This was welcome news...

As I had a new life growing inside me.

- Be well, my child. (peaceful orchestral music)

I can see that you have light in your eyes

once again.

Perhaps it is the life in your belly,

shining through.

Jonathan.

Good man.

Good man.

Take care of this little family, eh?

- Of course.

We'll take care of each other.

- I can see that.

- Mother, thank you for coming.

Thank you for tending to me.

I do hope your stay with us has not grieved you too much.

- Well...

Perhaps I was deceived by first appearances.

But a joy such as this,

disperses many grievous clouds, my dear.

- [Penelope] We were all so happy once again.

Jonathan and George helped to raise the son

of Richard and me,

and he in turn loved his special family.

And the days went by like leaves in the wind,

and the glory of my family continued to amaze.

Let not your prejudice or vanity bind.

See the beauty behind our scandalous ways.

(group laughing)