Ep 2: Of Duty and Duplicity

[00:00:00] Speaker A: Sa. [00:00:30] Speaker B: Hello. I'm Bloodied Porcelain and I'll be playing Lady Eloise Beaufort. [00:00:37] Speaker C: Hello, I'm Bookkeeper and I'll be playing Colonel Thomas Campbell. [00:00:43] Speaker D: Hello, I am Legacy and I'll be playing Lady Catherine Beaufort. [00:00:49] Speaker E: Hello, I'm Overjeet Thinker and I will be playing Mr. John Fielding. [00:00:56] Speaker A: And I'm Grizz and I'll be your facilitator for the evening. How are we doing, players? [00:01:02] Speaker E: Alive? [00:01:03] Speaker B: Yep. Excited? [00:01:05] Speaker D: Excited. [00:01:07] Speaker A: Various degrees is giggly because that's what we do around here. At our last episode we have the lovely spring opening at the Beaufort Estate. It was eventful. We had a young man get knocked over by dogs. There was a few small scandals here and there, but it was technically a success. Not as many declarations as you might think, but very early on and not everyone was able to make it. But the earliest biggest event of the year is the annual Flower Ball. This year is going to be run by the F family. The good baron Hugo Fosley and his wife Lillian Fosley. The actual ball itself is going to be held over in Foxford Cross where we all find the Fosley Estate. So Foxford Cross is similar to Red Witch and the Rolling Hills, but there are far more trees around here. Discovering the land and far more shadow. The Fosley estate is widespread with several buildings and it's a very like. How do I phrase this? They were very fortunate to find just such fertile land as they have several farms way off in the distance in the back and the all hedges cover the garden and the actual ball itself is going to be seated outside this time. Usually it would be held inside a house because spring's usually a bit colder than this but it's been rather warm this year. So they thought it fortunate enough to have everything outside in their gardens. Flowers from all over adorn the furniture and hedges. The tables are full of teas and various foods like line the smaller areas of the garden. So you want to sit down and have a conversation. And then the kind of main almost applause it. But it's this man, this main wide open area that they've furnished out and made more accessible to the gentler of their guests is the technical dance floor lined with seats around the outside and more food and various drinks. And a pavilion off to the upper left where the band will be playing. And that's how. That's the scene as well. That's not how we're opening, but that is the Flower Ball. It is usually the main site for declarations of intent and it's held at a different place every year. The Beaufort family hasn't run it in a few years, usually declining and as the their father might say, let someone else take the reins. We've done it for too long and we don't want to hog the spotlight. But many wonder if that's true after so many years. And given everything I just said, we didn't get a chance to talk about it because I just wanted to lay this all out. And we didn't get a chance to do it in the last episode because we were just trying to figure everything out. Let's talk over a scene that we enter so the four of you can just talk it out and decide at some point in the middle of this event. And this will be a partial event in that you can have your own scenes off to the side if you choose to, or it's just going to be the spotlight on everyone in this event. [00:04:54] Speaker B: So we can't just all turn the spotlights on Legacy and then sink into the background like we did last time. [00:05:01] Speaker A: Unfortunately, no. Also wasn't Legacy's idea. [00:05:05] Speaker D: No, it was not. It was not. It was Overthinker's idea. [00:05:09] Speaker B: Oh, fair. [00:05:10] Speaker A: Happy to help. [00:05:13] Speaker E: I think the first scene is Jon and Eloise arriving or getting close to arriving because John has been away on business, has come back, most of his cough recovered. There was probably a flurry of activity as we got our outfits set coordinated, hopped in the carriage and came over here. We haven't really had time to talk. [00:05:46] Speaker A: So the scene would open on your arrival. Just letting you know. [00:05:49] Speaker E: Indeed. [00:05:51] Speaker A: Okay. So this would also take place during the event. So you would have right up late and I'd okay with everybody else. [00:06:00] Speaker D: Yeah. [00:06:03] Speaker C: Yeah, absolutely. [00:06:08] Speaker E: So our carriage is pulling up and we're opening the door. [00:06:10] Speaker A: I'm waiting. I'm waiting for bp. [00:06:12] Speaker B: Oh, yeah, yeah, yeah. I'm sorry. [00:06:14] Speaker A: Okay. Okay. That's the thing. It's like everyone has to be okay with it. Yep. Cool. So the scene would be the front gates of the Fosley estate opening up for the older two of the Beaufort children pulling in with her intended. And that's what everyone at the BAAL thief. It might be a little bit late, but not everyone's always on time. And Foxford isn't the closest to Redwood, so it kind of makes sense. Not the greatest, but it'll be forgiven. They're just happy to have you here. But the scene is young. Yeah. [00:07:00] Speaker E: Lovely grounds. I must say the place looks rather nice this time of year. [00:07:06] Speaker B: Oh, indeed. Immaculate. Eloise looks Visibly uncomfortable with the fact that they are showing up late and everybody is staring. But is doing her best to look gracious despite it. [00:07:31] Speaker E: I hope the evening shan't be too challenging. My last words with the young master Bosley were. Sorry, falsely were interesting. Do you know them well? The Fosley family? [00:07:52] Speaker B: Well enough. In recent years our family has thrown this but this particular event. But father has wanted to allow others the pleasure a bit. But. [00:08:09] Speaker E: Indeed yes. [00:08:12] Speaker B: Yes. Most of most people who travel in there in my parents circle know the falsies and their son. [00:08:31] Speaker E: Yes. Is. Is he. I don't know if this is he. Well liked. Seems an amiable sort. But I can't say I related to him directly. [00:08:46] Speaker B: He is. He's a man of stature in society, which is. [00:08:56] Speaker E: Ah, the damning of faint praise. [00:09:02] Speaker A: Yeah. If I. Do you want me to give you a bit or do you want to make it up yourself? Because I have something. [00:09:07] Speaker B: Oh, no. I, I. We. We kind of talked a little bit about him last week. So she just kind of gives a little. A little smile. Just enough to be polite, but is clearly not heaping praise on the man. [00:09:29] Speaker E: He spoke quite openly and none too kindly of. Well, matters that pertain to the three of us present. More specifically, my dear, you and I. I wonder that I shouldn't engage him in conversation this evening. Perhaps he will recant his rudeness, perhaps he will not. [00:09:57] Speaker B: I would not press the matter personally. [00:10:06] Speaker E: Truly. [00:10:07] Speaker B: Truly. [00:10:10] Speaker E: What advantage is there to be gained by letting such things faster? [00:10:13] Speaker B: Better to what advantage is there to be gained by pursuing it at a party? [00:10:23] Speaker E: Well, I shall take your counsel. I shall leave the man be, as it were, and be myself only a gentleman. He smiles like. Like that was a joke. [00:10:42] Speaker B: Obvious. She does not smile because she clearly has stated and thinks he is a gentleman. So she's just like, I don't understand what we're joking about. What? [00:10:58] Speaker E: And here we are. [00:11:00] Speaker B: Indeed. [00:11:05] Speaker E: I will help the. My fiance and her sister. [00:11:15] Speaker A: Well, that's a good question, Catherine. Would you have arrived by yourself or with anybody else before them? [00:11:22] Speaker B: More likely with our parents, if not with us. [00:11:25] Speaker A: Yeah. [00:11:28] Speaker D: Yeah. I. I'd say that she is probably actually escorted by her aunt. [00:11:38] Speaker A: Yeah. [00:11:39] Speaker B: Yeah, okay. [00:11:40] Speaker A: All right. [00:11:41] Speaker D: Her aunt and the dogs. [00:11:46] Speaker A: Pulling some strings here. But indeed your aunt isn't exactly loaded with money. However, she was able to have a special carriage commissioned just big enough for her, somebody else and all of her dogs, oddly enough. Bailey, Bonnie, Bess, Bryn, Blair, Bella, Brutus, Baron, Bernard, Bo, Bentley, Bootsy and Darius are all in the carriage with you. Or arrived with you. And luckily, someone had the forethought to tell Baroness Lillian Fogley ahead of time. Caroline Beaufort would be showing up and has a special area designated for the dogs out back so they could just run in the fields. [00:12:30] Speaker B: It was absolutely Eloise who rode ahead. [00:12:33] Speaker A: Yeah. So actually beautifully at that, seeing you arrive. You would see the Baroness Fossley, like, she was doing her best to welcome all the guests because, you know, they are incredibly, like. Even if they definitely don't have to. She's just that kind of person. A bit shorter, really. Like, lovely brown hair, hazel eyes, and just like this beaming smile and just walks over and she's like, oh, my goodness, you're finally here. Thank you so much for letting me know, she says with, like, a slightly strained smile. But she does look genuinely happy that you're here. [00:13:13] Speaker B: Of course, I can only apologize for not having managed to dissuade her from her choices. [00:13:22] Speaker A: They just make everything a bit more lively. And honestly, this year, like, I look around, everyone's being a little bit stale. [00:13:28] Speaker E: For, oh, we can't have that. John Fielding, it is an honor and a pleasure, ma'am. [00:13:36] Speaker A: Oh, that's cool. Gives you a nod and, like, a lot, like a wide smile. Oh, actually, that's right. I did hear about that. Congratulations to the both of you. [00:13:50] Speaker B: Thank you. Thank you. Quite pleased. [00:13:57] Speaker A: Oh, don't let me keep you. I mean, the. Wow. The right over here is never pleasant and we need to really fix those roads very soon. So please, please join us. And she, like, takes Eloise by the arm and just, like, starts leading you into the ball. [00:14:14] Speaker B: Ah. Eloise has her. Has her smile on and is doing her best to be as gracious but still formal as possible. [00:14:26] Speaker A: Right. Yeah. He is a strapping young lad, isn't he, though? [00:14:35] Speaker B: He is a man of stature, yes. [00:14:39] Speaker A: Oh, I could pat you on the hand. Don't use him to a small. You don't have to be. I understand, though. I do. Well, welcome to it. Please enjoy yourself. If you need anything, let me know. We do have more food for the dogs than they should need, but serious. Seems to be eating a pound every other hour. [00:15:01] Speaker B: That is the way of things with them, I'm afraid. My aunt does not. Has never been one who's been able to train them as far as moderation goes. [00:15:16] Speaker A: But you're like, nod to you again and then, like, look up and there's, like, another character. I think hopefully this is the last one. And not green, but as royally as possible. Royally as possible. Glides at high speed over there with like the smoothest walk you've ever seen. But as you enter the main area, there are people dancing, there are people talking off the sides. You hear voices in the garden as well. And with that in mind. Catherine. Colonel, where are you? [00:15:53] Speaker D: I think that Catherine stands at the entrance of the. Of the. Of the event. Her. Her eyes. How long has it been since the last event? How much time has passed? [00:16:12] Speaker A: 2 and a half weeks. And the event's been going on now for about an hour and a half maybe. [00:16:16] Speaker D: Okay. Catherine's eyes seem just ever so slightly drained of life. He looks not tired, but like she had to pay heavily for the events that took place at the last. The last gathering. So a bit more. A bit. Almost as if the sensibilities were, for lack of a better term, kind of like pushed right into her and kind of driving a little bit more of that spirit out. She's appearing smaller. [00:17:16] Speaker A: And what does she wish to do given all of that? [00:17:21] Speaker D: I think for the time being she is just keeping close, just close by to her aunt at the entrance, waiting for somebody to greet them. [00:17:39] Speaker A: Okay, so at that moment, because you're just like. I don't know how much longer I want to be here. This is the worst. My dogs are too far away, so I can't hide behind the dogs. What do I hide behind? I think kind of like coming out of the hedges, you see a very good friend of yours. Not a very built individual, you'd say. Scrawny is an apt word for Jasper, but still like. Kind of like looking around as if he's hiding. Black hair, brown eyes, Gives you kind of like a nervous smile and like a wave and like from behind the hedge. And like. [00:18:40] Speaker D: When their eyes meet, she'll. She'll give him a very soft smile and just a very casual wave before sneezing. Sneaking off while it doesn't seem as though many eyes are on them, which is a good thing in her. In her case, she'll. She'll. She'll sneak off to go give him a proper greeting. [00:19:08] Speaker A: Damn. You look like you've been through it, haven't you? I'm so sorry I haven't been around. [00:19:16] Speaker D: I. [00:19:17] Speaker B: It. [00:19:18] Speaker D: It's. It's okay. You are very. You are a very busy man. I. I understand that you've recently inherited a barony yourself. [00:19:33] Speaker A: I did. Hey, Legacy. Do you have a last name for him? [00:19:39] Speaker D: Okay, that's a good question. [00:19:43] Speaker A: A bear need thing at high speed. Yes, I have. [00:19:56] Speaker D: That's wonderful. It's good to see you again. My friend, it isn't often that. It isn't often that. That I get to be in good company. That is actually pleasant. [00:20:17] Speaker A: Hate that. But I. Sure you don't want something to drink? You look ghastly. [00:20:22] Speaker D: Is it really that bad? [00:20:24] Speaker A: Yes. Like, I want to, like, touch you or support you in some way and, like, keep the pants away. Ah. Listen, please don't touch me. I'm not going to. I. You can't. I don't know what you're going through exactly. I can't say that I do. But the reason I'm hiding here in the hedges is because everyone seems to know about that and they're all hunting me down. Looks out into the main area. And if you glance, you can actually kind of see some people looking around as if searching for someone, some younger suitors who may be interested. But you can't let. You can't let all of this get to your head. That's not who you are. You have to go show them who you are. [00:21:21] Speaker D: The last time I attempted to show anybody who I truly was, well, you heard the last party was not good. And I can't disappoint anybody anymore. [00:21:36] Speaker A: Do you know what happens at those parties? Everyone remembers the biggest thing. Yes. [00:21:41] Speaker B: The biggest thing. [00:21:42] Speaker D: Yes. [00:21:45] Speaker A: No matter what, you have to go make something here that's even bigger. It puts you in a positive light. [00:21:53] Speaker D: All right? [00:21:55] Speaker A: Everything that happened was everyone else's fault. You didn't do anything to deserve that. You didn't know the dogs were gonna do that. [00:22:03] Speaker D: No, but they have distinct personalities. And you know how they can be. [00:22:09] Speaker A: Oh, I'm fully aware. Brutus always eats my shoes. [00:22:12] Speaker D: Oh, yes, yes. And the little ringleader will just chuck them all around wherever they want to go. And it's all very funny until it's not. And then people get hurt and. Oh, and you need to play to your strength. [00:22:32] Speaker A: You are far stronger than this. I know you are. [00:22:37] Speaker D: You have a lot more faith in me than most people do. And I don't know if that makes you. I don't know if that makes you kind or a bit clumsy. Maybe both. [00:22:52] Speaker A: Well, I trip over my own shoes. I won't deny that. [00:22:56] Speaker D: Now, the dogs are here again, if you want to go say hi. Auntie is a quite a fan of bringing them everywhere, you know, despite recollections. Anyway, do I send them on looking the other way for you? Are you going to just hide in these bushes? Are you actually going to come out and potentially me to suitor or somebody? [00:23:26] Speaker A: Well, are you gonna come out of these bushes and potentially meet a suitor with me. That doesn't sound. [00:23:32] Speaker D: It doesn't. But it's good to see you again, Jasper. You have no idea how much I've missed your company. [00:23:41] Speaker A: I missed you too. But unfortunately we're finally at the point where we have to wait to be happy around each other again. I know we can support each other from like the six feet. We could support each other from here. [00:23:56] Speaker D: Wonderful. [00:23:58] Speaker A: All right, I have a plan. [00:24:00] Speaker D: Okay. [00:24:01] Speaker A: Okay, you take the left, I'll take the right. Big smiles. [00:24:05] Speaker D: Fix my rings. [00:24:06] Speaker A: That's. That one's for me. [00:24:07] Speaker D: That was for you. [00:24:10] Speaker A: Just gonna do what we can and. [00:24:15] Speaker D: Fix your. Oh, oh, your rifles are all out of. I'm not touching you. [00:24:22] Speaker A: No, you're not. No. You are directing the hands where they're supposed to go. [00:24:26] Speaker D: Yes. Now fix that and fix that. And you're okay. Good. You look fine. You are fine. [00:24:35] Speaker A: So he. You can't help but wonder if the reason you became friends is the. As you're looking at him now, nervous as all heck, sticking like a leaf if he doesn't remind you. One of your aunt's dogs? Honestly? [00:24:46] Speaker B: Yeah. [00:24:46] Speaker D: Oh, absolutely. [00:24:48] Speaker A: How do I look? Aliens. This is a little bit of nervous shaking. Okay. And he kind of just like, I'm gonna go around this way. You go out that way. [00:24:59] Speaker D: Okay. All right, bye bye. [00:25:01] Speaker B: Okay, go. [00:25:03] Speaker D: Okay. And they split off in separate directions. [00:25:09] Speaker A: Absolutely, Colonel. [00:25:17] Speaker C: So the colonel was outside sort of taking the air. He finds the interior stuffy and he's, he's waiting his turn to ask for a proper dance. But as he sees Catherine break off from lady Caroline, he sees an opportunity and approaches the older aunt. [00:25:49] Speaker A: Yeah, she is, she's a little near the entrance. It's all wide open and outside, but you can see her. She's just like, gets a little hot. Fanning herself, sipping tea, enjoying the sights. I mean, she made it, so now she gets to take it all in. Kind of the air she's given right now. You do see her, like, idly chat with us someone once in a while. [00:26:16] Speaker C: But I will politely wait my turn. And then, Lady Caroline, how does this, how does the spring find you this evening? [00:26:28] Speaker A: It finds to be quite comfortable, in fact, perfect time to relax while everyone else is on edge. And she kind of like, grins a little bit behind her fan as she's looking around and oh yeah, there's plenty of, like, hints that's like, oh, do I make some move? Do I not make the move? Like all these young kids running around. [00:26:45] Speaker C: Oh, I, I, I Hear your. Your second generation of children off playing in the yard bit yonder. [00:26:55] Speaker A: Oh, they can't help themselves. The way they run around and run around and run around more. It's. It was. They're the f. Are just good people. She kind of gives a small smile like. Like kind of. She has to smile about it. Cuz it's true. Despite everything, they are. They are in fact good people. When they heard about it, they immediately made room. I can't complain. [00:27:24] Speaker C: Oh, it's the strangest story I heard. And perhaps you could clarify something for me. Had word had reached my ears that you were considering you may have to give them up. [00:27:41] Speaker A: Oh, he actually looks startled. [00:27:46] Speaker C: From the look on your face, I see that it is a little more than scurrilous gossip. And that is a balm to my heart, to be sure. [00:27:53] Speaker A: No, well, he looks relatively uncomfortable. [00:28:01] Speaker C: I was. [00:28:06] Speaker A: At the surroundings. [00:28:09] Speaker C: I was merely considering the possibility. As you know, I'm a bit of a sportsman myself and I take a great interest in trying to take care for animals. But I haven't had a lot of practice given my time abroad. So if that had been true, I might have been interested in being to the care and feeding of the dogs. That they might still remain with their family because I'm still a guest here in most of the country. And I'm pretty sure they're not quite ready for a trip to Argyle. [00:28:51] Speaker E: I would like to spend a token. [00:28:53] Speaker A: Mm. [00:28:55] Speaker E: I believe that good Thomas Campbell is about to overshare his feelings and affections towards the family. [00:29:06] Speaker A: Is that all right with you, bud? [00:29:09] Speaker C: Yes. I have a way to work that in. I will ask you to be patient until I do. But yes, for sure. [00:29:15] Speaker A: Mark that token, bud. All right. She kind of like snaps her fan closed and like sits back just a little bit like just studying you. Caroline Beaufort was married. It went very well. But that was some time ago and doesn't seem to need money since. You know, she has a lot of connections. Since he's very tight ended pretty much everything going around this part of England, including things going on in London. So if anything, she's. Despite her big smile that she's wearing, she's kind of a scary woman. And she hears all of this and she's looking at you and she just. Well, to stay with the family, you'd have to stay at Redwood. You'd have to stay at the family. Oops. [00:30:12] Speaker C: I'd only come to visit the dogs. I wouldn't dare imagine to impose upon you without your eye. Deliberate invitation. [00:30:23] Speaker A: But they'd need constant caring for the master of them, around them at all times. You'd have to live with us. [00:30:30] Speaker C: Is that how that works? Ah, that are more like soldiers than. Are more like soldiers than I thought. [00:30:36] Speaker A: They follow on my every word. And hers. Powders gestures to where Catherine went. [00:30:46] Speaker C: I never perceive Catherine as having the air of command. Not the way her sister does, at any rate. [00:30:52] Speaker A: She may surprise you. Or not. Maybe you've seen more of her than you think. [00:31:03] Speaker C: Well, it's all idle anyway, based on fanciful talk from people with too much time on their hands. I apologize for the interruption. Uh, is Lady Eloise about anywhere? [00:31:19] Speaker A: Yes, I just saw her head over towards the gardens with Barriss Lillian just a short while ago. [00:31:26] Speaker C: Ah, brilliant. In the event I don't come across her in the next hour or so, which I may not, I do tend to wonder about bitter. If you had asked her to save me a dance, I'd be much obliged. [00:31:45] Speaker A: Eloise. Very well. [00:31:51] Speaker C: And, yeah, as he says this, realizing that's a more forward than. That's more forward than these people are used to. There is a rush that comes to his cheeks that he hides with a formal bow. Says, thank you so much. [00:32:11] Speaker A: Stand up straight, shoulder. You don't need to bow to me. [00:32:17] Speaker C: I was raised in a very strict household. If I don't. If I do not bow before mighty men and beautiful women, my great grand will leap up out of the ground even now like a banshee and whip me about the hidden face. [00:32:34] Speaker A: Very well. I appreciate it. And I will pass that message on out of character. Did you mean Eloise or Catherine? [00:32:44] Speaker C: I meant Eloise. [00:32:45] Speaker A: Okay, thank you. I was like, which one's more forward? I can't tell. Excellent. And she's just like, oh, before you go. And she, like, reaches off to the side and there's another cup behind the cup she's been drinking from. Have a sip. [00:33:07] Speaker C: Well, thank you again. [00:33:10] Speaker A: To your health. [00:33:11] Speaker C: To your health and the health of your family. [00:33:17] Speaker A: Really nice whiskey. [00:33:21] Speaker C: Launcher. [00:33:24] Speaker A: Thinking you enjoyed it. Enjoy the party. [00:33:32] Speaker C: And you as well, lady. [00:33:39] Speaker A: Yeah, she's. She's just smiling at you just as you walk away. Just genuine joy playing behind her eyes. [00:33:51] Speaker C: Taking a sip and muttering to himself. Good job, Tom. Well done. [00:33:57] Speaker A: Good job, man. Good job. Patting yourself on the back if you walk away. Good job, man. Barry. Jonathan Masters. All right, so Eloise missed a fielding. [00:34:12] Speaker B: Yes. [00:34:15] Speaker A: As the party goes on, what would you both like to do? [00:34:21] Speaker E: I think. [00:34:22] Speaker B: Go ahead. [00:34:23] Speaker E: I believe in order to avoid a breach of propriety, we have to dance, like, as soon as we can at least once. [00:34:33] Speaker B: Okay. [00:34:34] Speaker E: I guess we're dancing purely in order to maintain appearances. [00:34:39] Speaker A: Are you saying this in or out of character? Because I don't care if it's out of character. [00:34:45] Speaker B: I'm assuming this was out of character to verify that the scene was cool with me. Yeah, no, I'm down for that. I. In that case, I guess my big question is John know how to dance? [00:35:13] Speaker E: He would not be called skilled in present circle, but he's not clumsy or awkward and can, like, hold himself properly. You wouldn't ask him to do a complicated dance. [00:35:26] Speaker B: He's a little stiff, but he knows the steps. [00:35:29] Speaker E: Yes. [00:35:30] Speaker B: Okay. Interesting, because I imagine Eloise has spent her whole life learning how to dance and how to be graceful and how to be a accomplished woman, as is often referenced in the book. So I'm sure that they make quite a pair on the dance floor. With him being. With him being very stiff and hurt. Not. [00:36:04] Speaker A: So there are. How many people are at this party? [00:36:10] Speaker B: Probably a fair few if it's one of the big events of the season. [00:36:13] Speaker A: Yeah, I'm just like round number like 145 or something like that. So there's like 20 other pairs on this. It's a pretty spacious dance floor. So there's a lot of room to maneuver. The music is slow. It's pleasant. It's springtime. It's a little peppy. A little bit. So people can add a little pep to their step. You know what? There is no rolling in this game. But I'm gonna roll for see how many bad dancers there actually are here. [00:36:46] Speaker B: Oh, boy. [00:36:47] Speaker A: Oh, yeah. Oh, you better believe it. One thing while I do this. Boom. Okay, There are so you. You're both dancing and it's like, he's. He is a little stiff, I'll imagine. Really good at this. And as you're going like, oh, God, how's everyone else look? And you're like, looking around. Even after many years of training for events like these, there are several younger individuals is that they just don't got it down the way you think you would. So the end result is both of you look great. Like. Like you. You dance fine. Like, it looked good. Every. No one's going to be like, oh, hell yeah. And then clapping away. But they're like, well done. Well done. It's basically the assessment of your dance compared to like the five or six other couples that are just like, missing steps. They're. They don't know each other as well, maybe, or they don't know each other at all and they're like stepping on each other's toes. It just doesn't go as well as you'd think. Everyone's taking off the ring rust. [00:37:58] Speaker E: It seems we're doing rather well by comparison. [00:38:04] Speaker B: Indeed. Helps to take some of the pressure off, doesn't it? And I'm imagining that they're having this conversation in those brief moments during the dance where they're actually close enough to speak. Because most dances back then you didn't actually touch your partner and there was a lot of like come together that separate and then come together that separate. [00:38:25] Speaker A: So that's kind of where the fuck ups are happening, where it's like the come together like, no, don't do it. Oh, we're not going to. Oh shit, it's happening again. Yeah, but granted for the two of you, you are slightly older than most of the other people doing the dance at the same time. Just pointing it out. Yeah. Gets a little tiny bit, then no one's gonna like, well, they're older. That's not what's happening. [00:38:50] Speaker E: We're mid-20s. They're like late teens. Early 20s. [00:38:54] Speaker A: Exactly. So you did good. The dance comes to a slow close. Everyone bows respectfully of course, and go on their way. And the taking 10. No, the pan doesn't say that. The band takes a small break for lunch because it's. The sun's at its highest point. It's getting almost a little hot outside, so everyone's kind of retreating to the shadier parts of the gardens. Not everyone, like maybe half the party. [00:39:30] Speaker B: Eloise will open her fan and use it to herself off just a bit, while also having the ability to kind of hide the fact that dancing at this hour in the sun, she's probably a little flushed. [00:39:55] Speaker E: Was there anything of note while I was away? Any interesting news? [00:40:02] Speaker B: News is a. Not particularly. I think there might have been an announcement about Lady. Lady Faring. I believe she is engaged and will be moving across the country soon. But nothing of great import. And she lived far enough away that I don't think you've ever met her. [00:40:40] Speaker E: Anyway, no, no new. No rumor, no gossip that I might. Being out of town, I missed most of the new development since the. The last event. I hope your good sister was not poorly spoken of. After the events with the dogs and. [00:41:01] Speaker B: Such as you start in on the topic of rumor and then bring up her sister for just a moment. That kind of good natured placidity that she usually has on her face with you fades and there is a look at her eye that Kind of suggests that this is not a topic you should be talking about with her and that she does not approve of the fact that you've brought it up, especially not here. And she just goes kind of. She goes for very, very pointedly quiet and there's that kind of like stony disapproval for just a moment and then it fades. It is replaced by that placidity and she sort of looks back out over the assemblage. [00:42:01] Speaker A: And you do see someone. Someone you have not seen in many. [00:42:04] Speaker B: A moon, huh. [00:42:09] Speaker A: Daniel? [00:42:13] Speaker B: And just like that, her whole demeanor changes and her face is just like genuinely happy. And it's almost like you can watch the weight come off of her shoulders. [00:42:31] Speaker A: And I would see, you would see kind of going around the actual main dance floor, a polar gentleman. Actually almost about as tall as a colonel, honestly. Slightly longer hair. He full beard. Because this is not what he's interested in. Well tailored, but not nearly as well as everybody else. Kind of built for his size, but this comes over really big smile and he's like, eloise, I am so sorry. I might like to. [00:43:15] Speaker B: Daniel, you are ever fashionable as always in your timing. Daniel, may I introduce Mr. John Fielding. [00:43:29] Speaker A: John, pleasure to finally meet you. [00:43:31] Speaker E: A pleasure. A man fashionable in his timing could surely not be unfashionable in other areas. It's a pleasure to meet you, sir. [00:43:40] Speaker A: Thank you. It is nice to finally meet you. I'm actually wearing one of your items in you to actually recognize the suit that he's wearing. [00:43:52] Speaker B: Daniel is single handedly responsible for my grasp of the French language. [00:44:01] Speaker A: How would you do that to me? Why would you do that? [00:44:07] Speaker B: Oh, he doesn't have to speak French. [00:44:16] Speaker E: Parlez vous francais, monsieur? [00:44:19] Speaker A: Sure. [00:44:22] Speaker B: Sure. [00:44:28] Speaker E: You set him up. I'll knock him down. [00:44:33] Speaker A: Holy hell, it could have been anything. [00:44:36] Speaker B: Well, a truly accomplished lady speaks at. I think it was at least five languages according to the book. So. [00:44:47] Speaker A: Yeah, but. He responds in French. God damn. And. But no. I. I've been meaning to come back to Redwitch for so long. It. I have been in. I've been in many places around Europe and it's been an absolutely wonderful trip. But I am so excited to be home. And the Foslies don't disappoint as usual when they choose to actually do something like looking around. [00:45:23] Speaker B: Indeed. It is beautiful, isn't it? Although I question the question. What a good idea it was to hold everything outside. We must all cast our gaze towards the heavens and pray that no rain comes in England in the spring. [00:45:49] Speaker A: Well, I don't know about rain. But that cloud cover looks lovely right now. And you do see, like a cloud start to cover partial part of the sun. See, As I always said, just look to the heavens, say a little prayer, and help will arrive. [00:46:05] Speaker B: Let's hope it stays at help and not a deluge. Yes. [00:46:10] Speaker E: Oh, it quite agreed, dear. One does tempt the fates in such a situation. Sort of asking for trouble, don't you think? [00:46:21] Speaker B: Sir. [00:46:24] Speaker C: I would like Permissible. [00:46:26] Speaker A: Yeah, go ahead. [00:46:27] Speaker C: I would like Permissible to spend one of Edith's resolve tokens to introduce her into this scene, because she is the precocious and bothersome younger teen. And just to keep things interesting, I would like to give her a last name of Edith Fosley. [00:46:42] Speaker A: Oh, no, that actually helps me more than you may think. [00:46:49] Speaker E: Fantastic. [00:46:50] Speaker A: So, bp can you give Daniel a last name? [00:46:59] Speaker B: Thompson. [00:47:02] Speaker A: Got it. [00:47:04] Speaker C: As a. As a. Oh, no, wait. [00:47:07] Speaker B: We have a Thomas, don't we? Shoot. [00:47:10] Speaker A: We have a Catherine and a Carolyn. All right, it's already hard for me. Let's just keep going. It's a precocious. [00:47:17] Speaker C: A precocious and chirpy voice from behind. Everyone goes, oh, it never rains here before dinner time. It inevitably ruins my after dinner walks. [00:47:30] Speaker B: Will turn and give Edith a genuine smile. Young Miss Edith has some time. [00:47:42] Speaker A: Book. I'm actually gonna send you a note real quick because. Okay. And steal my thunder. But I had an idea for this. Oh, no, you're good. No, you're good. Just if you're doing false. [00:47:54] Speaker C: But. [00:47:54] Speaker A: Yeah, I'm just gonna set you up. Here we go. [00:48:10] Speaker C: Perfect. [00:48:11] Speaker A: Yeah. Thank you. Yeah. Daniel turns around. Ms. Farsley. Well, you're looking better than you were. [00:48:24] Speaker C: Last year and feeling much better. Thank you, sir. She gives a little curtsy. I'm ever so fond of my new dress, she says, flouncing it around and make. And looking directly at. Everyone's name is gone. And looking directly at John. [00:48:46] Speaker E: Is it one of mine? [00:48:47] Speaker A: It is. [00:48:51] Speaker E: I am eternally pleased to hear it. Anyone who feels better in one of my garments is a mark upon me that shall carry me to heaven one day. Truly, you look fantastic. [00:49:06] Speaker C: Mother says the stitching is the work of the Lord. For as resistant to tears as this has been. [00:49:13] Speaker E: I shall not make such a claim for fear of blasphemy. But I take the compliment in the best intention. And he's smiling, just beaming. [00:49:28] Speaker B: Colour suits you. Matches your eyes. [00:49:32] Speaker C: I can say the same for you, Lady Eloise. That is a lovely dress and so well coordinated with Mr. Fieldings. [00:49:41] Speaker B: Eloise smiles serenely. Indeed. I think it was A good choice. And she'll look over at John. [00:49:53] Speaker E: My delightful fiance, never lets these things go past her. She is as diligent and dedicated as she is smart and beautiful. [00:50:04] Speaker C: Not like that ridiculous colonel who insists on wearing his tartan pattern everywhere he goes, no matter how many different times he changes clothes in a day. [00:50:14] Speaker A: Oddly enough, that would be the time you, Colonel, from across the. Across the floor, actually do see Eloise. As the band takes its place. [00:50:30] Speaker B: Eloise sort of, like, lifts her eyes to look for the colonel and follows. Follows Edith's eyes and probably, like, makes eye contact with the colonel at the same time. Entirely by accident, but in the most cinematic moment possible. [00:50:54] Speaker A: Y'all wanted chaos. So the band does start to begin to begin to, like, a little bit of music to get everyone kind of back to the floor. And you, good Colonel, do see your opportunity as a little bit off to the. I don't know. Imagine a giant square. You're on the far right, and there on the far left, you see Auntie at, like, the southern part of the whole thing, just fanning herself, smiling at you like you wanted it. [00:51:27] Speaker C: And as the colonel begins to attempt to weave his way across as though he were navigating a battlefield, Edith just shakes her head and goes, really? You would think he would have more time to gather proper clothes, especially being down here in representation of his brother, who I understand is taken ill. Oh, well, goodbye. [00:51:50] Speaker B: Goodbye. [00:51:52] Speaker A: Thinking evil. What then? Why was a small thunderstorm in itself? I hope you're satisfied. [00:52:02] Speaker B: Edith Falsely is nothing if not a force of nature. [00:52:07] Speaker E: Indeed. Gone as swiftly as she's arrived and leaving a heavy feel upon the ground. [00:52:15] Speaker C: About a half minute later, you see a woman that looks like she might be a governess move through the space, hunting like a shark for something she cannot find. [00:52:27] Speaker A: Excuse me, Eloise, I. I know the governess. I'll point her in the right direction. Excuse me, both. Very nice to meet you, Mr. Fielding. [00:52:35] Speaker B: It's lovely to see you again. [00:52:38] Speaker A: Bows, takes off the hat, puts it back on and strides away. Can you see like, a. An older governess, unfortunately, like, she really shouldn't be running around in this heat looking. And Daniel, like, stops, speaks to her in French. And Edith says, French. Can't believe you. [00:53:05] Speaker B: You're welcome. [00:53:06] Speaker A: Yeah. [00:53:08] Speaker C: The. The colonel finally makes his way across the field of battle. He will give a slight bow and offer his handing. Lady Eloise. Would you favor me with a dunce, Colonel Campbell? [00:53:24] Speaker B: Yes, of course. And she'll kind of look back at John and bob him a polite little curtsy. To acknowledge him so that she's not just walking. Walking away without a word. [00:53:39] Speaker E: Yeah, John's body language is to step so that the. So that he is, you know, cornered to the two of them and sort of gesture with his arm that she. [00:53:48] Speaker B: Proceed and she will. [00:53:52] Speaker A: Real quick, real quick. To those of you who haven't spent resolve tokens, remember that you can spend resolve tokens whenever you wish. [00:54:00] Speaker B: Yep. I just haven't needed mine because you keep doing all the things I think about doing, so. [00:54:06] Speaker A: Oh, yeah, the small file that he took the name from. Yeah, that's fine. [00:54:12] Speaker B: I will. I will slide my hand into the good kernels. I would, however, as this is happening, like to spend one of Isabelle's resolve tokens and have her approach John. [00:54:30] Speaker A: And. [00:54:31] Speaker B: Just take advantage of Eloise's absence, which doesn't have to get acted on right this second. But at some point, yes, yeah, absolutely. But, yeah, I will slide my hand into Colonel Campbell's and allow him to lead me onto the dance floor. [00:54:53] Speaker C: As it turns out, the Colonel is more proficient at dancing than you might initially presume. [00:55:04] Speaker B: Pleasant surprise on Eloise's face because she was not prepared for. Well, she wasn't really prepared for a Scotsman, let alone a dancing Scotsman, but it's. It is nice. Are you enjoying the bowl, Colonel? [00:55:31] Speaker C: He almost breaks into a smile for a moment and says, at this moment, without a doubt, my lady. [00:55:42] Speaker B: There is the faintest hint of a blush on her cheeks. She catches the smile and like, the next time they come together, be careful, Colonel, People might start to think you're having fun at a party. What a scandal. [00:55:57] Speaker C: Nonsense. Scotsmen are genetically predisposed to be grumpy at all times. [00:56:04] Speaker B: That is the rumor I've heard. And she is smiling, amused. [00:56:18] Speaker A: Catherine. Hi. [00:56:22] Speaker D: Hi. [00:56:23] Speaker A: Hi. How you doing? [00:56:25] Speaker D: I'm good. [00:56:27] Speaker A: So where would you be right about. [00:56:32] Speaker D: I think at this point, Catherine, now, after getting a mild pep talk from her, from her friend, would actually, as the next dance starts, make her way down to the. To where all the dancing is. [00:56:56] Speaker A: Okay. Oh, yeah. And what are you thinking? [00:57:10] Speaker D: I think that the moment that she gets down there and sees that her sister is dancing with the Colonel, she is just going to stop and watch and remain stone faced the entire time until Eloise is able to do a turn that makes them briefly make eye contact with one another. And then at that point, she's going to just give one of those, like, very forced smiles. [00:57:48] Speaker C: Point of order. I would like to spend my monologue token, Lady Catherine. [00:57:57] Speaker D: Oh, geez. [00:57:58] Speaker C: What is going through your mind as you stone facedly stare at your sister. [00:58:04] Speaker B: I just want to point it out that he beat me to it by one second. One second. I was literally in the process. [00:58:11] Speaker A: Gotta be click on the draw with those tokens. Remember to spend them. [00:58:14] Speaker B: Remember. [00:58:17] Speaker E: Go ahead. [00:58:18] Speaker D: Oh dear God. All right. Of all of the people, my own sister. I understand why I do. She is more gracious than I ever will be. More understanding of these social cues. She had better training than I had. She is more prepared for this life. But I often wonder why she stays with somebody who doesn't make her happy. There are many people in this world who would kill to stand by his side. Those who would go to war for someone so gracious and kind. I wish for once I could be like her. I push and push and yet no matter what I do, I am not her. I often wonder if off Emily looks at me in disappointment because they look at her with such pride in the eyes. And it, it hurts on a level that I don't think anybody will ever understand. She is a sunrise on a warm summer's day and I am the shadow. Whenever they look at her, they see the makings of a true lady. And they look at me as a child. I don't want to be here right now. I think, I think that it's time for me to step to the side and rethink many things. But Eloise, do not fly close to that sun. You've already had the life that I wish I could have with our parents and with our brother. And though you don't know, I've made sacrifices for your happiness too. Please stop and monologue. [01:03:03] Speaker A: Well said. And at that we have John watching Catherine, watching the two of you are dancing. John, what's going through your head? [01:03:33] Speaker E: First I'd like, I'd like permission to kind of clock that. Lady Eloise is not happy about this. [01:03:43] Speaker B: Catherine. Eloise is dancing, right? [01:03:47] Speaker E: Yes. I remember whose name is which. [01:03:53] Speaker D: Wow, forgot the name. I remember who I'm marrying. [01:03:55] Speaker B: I swear. [01:03:58] Speaker D: Forgot the name of your own fiance and her sister. [01:04:03] Speaker E: What's in a name? [01:04:07] Speaker D: Somebody's identity is all. [01:04:08] Speaker A: You know, you clock it. [01:04:14] Speaker C: I would like as this is happening. [01:04:17] Speaker A: I'm not going to let, I'm. [01:04:19] Speaker C: Yeah, absolutely, absolutely. [01:04:21] Speaker A: Yeah. Over the chance to do something. [01:04:29] Speaker E: Yeah. I think John is gonna trying to decide. I think John's gonna go talk to. [01:04:42] Speaker A: Catherine. [01:04:48] Speaker E: Or try to if nothing comes under his way. [01:04:53] Speaker A: Yeah, you see. [01:04:57] Speaker D: All right. Oh, Mr. Fielding. To what do I owe the pleasure? [01:05:12] Speaker E: I, I, I saw you and you seemed rather distraught. Are you all right, Lady Catherine? [01:05:23] Speaker D: Oh, I am perfectly fine. My apologies if I seem. If I. If I seem distraught. These parties tend to drag on. [01:05:46] Speaker E: I see. [01:05:48] Speaker D: Are. Are you doing quite all right, Mr. [01:05:53] Speaker A: Fielding? [01:05:54] Speaker E: I. @ this moment I haven't the slightest reason to complain. [01:06:02] Speaker D: Is that so? [01:06:04] Speaker E: Certainly. [01:06:07] Speaker B: That's wonderful. [01:06:11] Speaker E: Have you had. Are your. Are your friends here? Forgive me, I. [01:06:24] Speaker D: The dogs are down there running around, so. Yes, they are. They are here. [01:06:39] Speaker E: Right. Very well. Surely. And he adopts a sort of. He like, turns to the rest of the room. Surely there must be someone here you would see fit to dance with. Or have you been turning down suitors all night? [01:07:06] Speaker D: Um. I have not been asked and it would be very impolite for me to. It would be very impolite for me to make a scene or not wait for somebody sad. [01:07:28] Speaker E: Well then, if you will permit me. Would you like to dance? [01:07:40] Speaker D: I would be honored. I feel. I feel as though you and I haven't had many opportunities to speak. And we are all very excited for your betral though to my dear sister. [01:07:58] Speaker E: Indeed. It should be a. A good event for all, I should think. Come, let us enjoy ourselves. Her hand. [01:08:10] Speaker B: And. [01:08:14] Speaker D: She will take it. [01:08:21] Speaker A: And the dance goes on. This round it is slightly more obvious that Mr. Fielding isn't that good. But it's just because like the older people finally want a chance to dance after all the young ones with fucking it up. [01:08:38] Speaker E: But now I do think he's a little bit looser this time. Partially because he's not trying super hard to impress Eloise. I think he can have a little more fun with Catherine. [01:08:55] Speaker A: That seems like a token opportunity, but that's just me. Anyway. [01:09:01] Speaker C: Ask and ye shall receive. [01:09:06] Speaker D: I would like to spend a resolve token. [01:09:09] Speaker A: Okay. [01:09:10] Speaker D: Something is going to go very, very wrong during the adults only dance and partners are going to get mixed up. [01:09:21] Speaker A: You got it? All right. So I said most of the adults are pretty good, right? That's just how it be. [01:09:27] Speaker B: I would like to also spend a resolve token to further muck up this cluster that is about to happen. I would like my. I would like the person mixing up the partners to be one. Serdick Bosley inserting himself into the dance where he does not belong and cutting off one of the couples. I will leave it up to you who it is. [01:09:54] Speaker A: Yeah, I have a pretty good idea. Wow. I don't know how this would work because I don't know how the society worked that well. [01:10:13] Speaker E: Pears dancing up and down in a line and he just jumps in and. [01:10:17] Speaker B: It'S typically it's typically lines and then. [01:10:20] Speaker A: Yeah, sorry, it's a. You said further mucking it up, so I gotta think about that, too, because something has to happen after this. Okay, so as the line's moving, Mr. Fielding, you haven't seen Bosley until just now. You kept an eye out, but the party's been going on for a bit, and it's like he's been a ghost this entire damn time. Right. It's not until a particular step back and like, a twist that you actually, like, look up the line and see him kind of just like, slide his way in, smooth as can be. The same smile as usual, and catches a young woman off guard, but she seems to recognize immediately and start smiling and they start dancing as well. And you do notice, even while he's smiling and quietly conversing with that person, he does have his eyes on Eloise and then Catherine and then Eloise and then Catherine, which would make you slightly misstep, at least just a little bit, because you're looking back and forth, trying to figure out what he's aiming for. And that doesn't do anything to the dance necessarily. It just makes you kind of, like, slide off the next partner, even slightly accidentally. And the whole line kind of just takes a one, two step to the next person over. And Colonel Eloise, you quickly find yourselves with new dancing partners. And Eloise, you're dancing with Mr. [01:12:03] Speaker B: Awesome. [01:12:10] Speaker A: And Legacy, you, Catherine, are. You didn't notice him because you think he was trying to appear smaller than he actually is. But he is not tall. He's a pretty. He's a pretty noticeable guy. One Mr. Neil Graham, who you were introduced to last event and your dog suddenly attacked. [01:12:32] Speaker D: Wonderful. [01:12:33] Speaker A: Yeah. Yeah. [01:12:36] Speaker D: Can I spend another resolve token to put Colonel Thomas and Mr. Fielding together? [01:12:45] Speaker A: Not quite. Not quite. [01:12:49] Speaker B: Just gonna point out I still have an Isabelle token floating in the ether somewhere. [01:12:53] Speaker A: Yeah, you do. And I'm trying to resolve that while resolving these at the same time, because I have three of them, which is the only reason I'm saying hold that thought. Hasn't quite resolved yet. But given that. Let's see. See. Yeah. I think the Colonel would just. [01:13:13] Speaker C: So I have a thought where I would spend a resolve token where because of the shift and because of Mr. Fielding's misstep, Colonel and John suddenly find themselves at the end of the dance line, just past the dance line in the crowd, and suddenly they're just. Neither of them are the dance anymore. [01:13:35] Speaker A: Okay. All right. So is that okay with you, Legacy, because you haven't actually spent the token yet? Yeah. Because I want to reserve the one you just spent. Resolve. The one you just spent before you spun another one. Do you see what I'm saying? Oh, yeah, yeah. [01:13:51] Speaker D: That's fine. [01:13:51] Speaker A: Okay. And is that okay with you, overthinker? Because that token. Okay. [01:13:57] Speaker E: Certainly. [01:13:58] Speaker A: Going back to the dance. It's okay, crowd. It's okay. It's okay, everybody. We got this covered. It's all right. So we'll go with Captain first. You are dancing with Mr. Neil Graham, who still had slight bandage on his forehead. [01:14:19] Speaker B: Oh. [01:14:21] Speaker A: As you like. Separate and come back together again. Ah, Lady Pulford, it's a pleasure to separate again and go back in. A pleasure to see you again. [01:14:32] Speaker D: It's a pleasure to see you step back and step forward again as well. [01:14:41] Speaker A: Sorry. No, it's fine. It's fine. It's like the worst, like, reintroduction of all time. He goes, yeah, it's a. Can we talk more after this is done? [01:14:57] Speaker D: And absolutely. [01:15:01] Speaker A: Absolute glow. I think we're switching again. I'll talk to you. [01:15:07] Speaker B: Nice to see you. [01:15:08] Speaker A: Right, while that's happening, you're dancing with Fossley. Eloise. And he's like, eloise. [01:15:22] Speaker B: Pleasure to see you, Lord Fossley. It has been some time. [01:15:30] Speaker A: Absolutely. You look wonderful. [01:15:34] Speaker B: Thank you. You look quite dashing. [01:15:39] Speaker A: Can't help it. That's not. I couldn't. You must look good for your own family's events, you know. [01:15:50] Speaker B: I'm sorry, I didn't hear that. You got kind of muffled. [01:15:53] Speaker A: Uh, sorry. You have to look good for your own family's events, you know, I mean. And you looked absolutely amazing at the opening. [01:16:01] Speaker B: Thank you. [01:16:02] Speaker A: Yes. How have you been? I haven't spoken to you in so long. We used to run around this whole garden, like, with idiots when we were. [01:16:13] Speaker B: Children, but now it has been a busy time. I am preparing for my wedding and seeing to all of that has kept me quite busy. [01:16:29] Speaker A: Well, if you need any aid in that, I'm more than willing to help. [01:16:36] Speaker B: I appreciate the offer. She's giving him a look like, what sort of help could you possibly give me without actually saying it? [01:16:42] Speaker A: Yeah, no, forgive my words. If you want a specific halo or something like that, or any small thing you might need. [01:16:57] Speaker B: Well, my understanding is that you met my fiance, who is last during the event, at my family home. He's quite the accomplished tailor. [01:17:07] Speaker A: Oh, I was just giving an example. There are many things you need at a wedding, but forgive me, I misspoke. I just want to wish to help you if you need it. [01:17:22] Speaker B: I Appreciate your kindness, sir. [01:17:29] Speaker A: He clocks the kind of cold turn, nods. All right, well, have a pleasant rest of your day. And the dance ends and you both bow. [01:17:40] Speaker B: She will curtsy. And then as she is standing back up, she's immediately looking for somebody to latch onto that isn't him. She's just like, there's gotta be somebody I know in this crowd. [01:17:54] Speaker E: I'm going to spend a resolve token we're waiting for. Oh yeah, there's more in play, aren't there? [01:18:00] Speaker A: Yeah, for resolve. The two of you getting kicked out and also somebody else's. So both of the. You and the Colonel both get uncertain mostly kind of pushed out of the dance and you're both standing there like oh, this isn't supposed to work. Like what powers the feature drove us to here? Gone. [01:18:25] Speaker E: Colonel, I believe we've just been evicted from the dance. [01:18:31] Speaker C: Well, you are a Mr. And I'm a Scott. Should think of it as a metaphor of some sort, I suppose. [01:18:43] Speaker A: Rude. [01:18:45] Speaker E: One I do not plan to take lying down. [01:18:52] Speaker C: Just want to storm the dance line. Now I'm with you if you do. [01:18:58] Speaker E: Let us receive a drink first. I'm. I'm happy to see you here. How have you been. [01:19:08] Speaker A: Keeping? [01:19:09] Speaker C: Well, bouncing from house to house like a vagrant. [01:19:16] Speaker E: Forgive me, do you not have apartments of your own? [01:19:20] Speaker C: Not in England. [01:19:23] Speaker E: My friend. You have surely done me a disservice. You are welcome to stay at mine any time. [01:19:30] Speaker C: I am grateful for the invitation, but it turns out if you're friends with his Grace the Duke of Wellington, the. The invitations come fast and thick. [01:19:41] Speaker E: Friends of superior station. Then so be it. I take no offense. I'm glad that you find the country more welcoming than it seems. It could have been. [01:19:55] Speaker C: Well, it's. It certainly smells nicer than London. [01:20:01] Speaker E: Indeed. Though I find the smell of London is too familiar to be offensive at this point. I grew up there, you know. [01:20:12] Speaker C: I understand. [01:20:15] Speaker E: Whenever a business calls me back, it is. It is welcome, even in the parts of it that I detest. [01:20:26] Speaker C: Are you quite alright? [01:20:31] Speaker E: Do I seem otherwise? [01:20:33] Speaker C: A wee bit? Ay. [01:20:41] Speaker E: I believe so. I had no illusions when I entered these circles that all would be simple. Yet I find motives and agendas in place. I had no reason to think them and I. Perhaps we should take a walk and speak of this. [01:21:08] Speaker C: I'll never say no to a good chance to stretch my legs. [01:21:15] Speaker E: Or I shall send you a letter on tomorrow and we shall enjoy supper at some point if you can lower yourself to my abode. [01:21:25] Speaker C: Now listen to you. [01:21:33] Speaker E: But truly it would be A pleasure to speak openly. [01:21:41] Speaker C: I look forward to your writings. [01:21:47] Speaker A: So, Colonel. Yes, you do see your good friend the Major Masters riding up to you looking a bit more put together than usual. Probably because he doesn't feel any pressure with this many other suitors around. And he gives you a wave as he approaches Jono. [01:22:10] Speaker C: Wave to him and turn back to Jon. Excuse me. Seems like duty calls. And between the two of us I think we found. Found someone a Even more. Even more at social sixes and sevens than you. [01:22:28] Speaker A: It does look a little awkward walking around. [01:22:34] Speaker C: Major Masters. What can I do for you? [01:22:37] Speaker A: You can help me figure something out while you're. That Mr. Fielding? Yes. [01:22:43] Speaker C: Hi. [01:22:45] Speaker E: A pleasure. [01:22:46] Speaker A: No, he's not. No, he. [01:22:48] Speaker E: Okay. [01:22:49] Speaker A: I thought he walked towards the Major. Sorry. Yeah, I did. Okay. Cool. All right. Cool. Has that missed a field? I guess. [01:22:59] Speaker C: Hi. [01:23:00] Speaker A: Hi. Hey. Figure something out. How well do you know the boats. [01:23:11] Speaker C: Relatively? [01:23:11] Speaker A: I've been there. [01:23:12] Speaker C: A guest before. [01:23:15] Speaker A: I just. Maybe you can pass this along to. For the love of God. There's. Maybe get passes. Are you good friends with the Arrow? William. [01:23:30] Speaker C: We would know one another Good friends might be a stretch. [01:23:35] Speaker A: Oh, I'm not sure. There. How do I put this? There's a lot of things about Mr. Feeling in a very short amount of time. Just here in the past few weeks and at this ball. I'm surprised to see him on the dance. [01:24:01] Speaker C: Hi. [01:24:03] Speaker A: Yeah. I just don't. He just. They think he's overreaching. Let's just. He just got so ambitious. He aimed for a life of heightened society just to get his name up. And everyone's been talking about it. [01:24:28] Speaker C: Those of us who must make our way in the world selling our commissions probably would do well not to spread around such rumors. [01:24:36] Speaker A: I'm just saying it to you so you could possibly bring it up to the head of the household. It doesn't look good. I'm getting this information from a good friend of Eloise's abandoned. Listen. You're friends with the sisters. I know this. I just want to. I want to make sure that your friends don't get stuck on some nasty thing very shortly. Because you want to. I want what's best for you. And you want what's best for your friends. So I'm letting you know I don't like talking about this kind of thing. [01:25:23] Speaker C: As well you should not. I appreciate the warning. I will pass it on as I think it will do best. [01:25:33] Speaker A: Oh, they gotta go talk to her right now. Is that. Is there aunt really selling all those dogs? They're adorable. [01:25:41] Speaker C: No. [01:25:43] Speaker A: Oh, I must let her know. I think one of the earls over there was talking about he loves dogs. He'd take them in a hobby. [01:25:52] Speaker C: I. I rather think no one's parting Lady Caroline from her dogs, except over her dead body. [01:26:03] Speaker A: She's gonna outlive all of us. [01:26:04] Speaker C: But oh, I. [01:26:07] Speaker A: Lots to you. Something to keep in mind. Sorry, Thomas. Then he'll head off. Oh, what's everyone else doing? [01:26:27] Speaker E: I'd like to spend a resolve token. [01:26:32] Speaker A: To. [01:26:34] Speaker E: I know now where my unofficial nemesis is. And as I try to get a look and see who he's talking to, I recognize my business partner, James. All right, so I'm gonna spend one of James's tokens to have him here. [01:26:57] Speaker A: Okay. Everyone's having fun. I guess they're happy. No, no overt drama. But there has been drama. And I'm pretty sure there's been a few like engagements around the other areas. Who the hell knows? But in the meantime, one Mr. John Fielding sees his business partner, James, last name unknown. I didn't ask. Talking to ecu, James, talking to Richard Fosley. They've gone off to like one of the larger gardens off to the side. They're just like sitting at a table, just sipping on something. [01:27:39] Speaker E: I'm gonna go talk to him. [01:27:41] Speaker A: Yeah. And James, he's probably a tiny bit older than. A tiny bit younger than you, if anything. Still fresh faced, smiling, and this looks up, you're like, oh, God. Oh, you're finally here. Sit down, sit down. I have excellent news. And Fielding just tips his glass to you and smiles. [01:28:08] Speaker E: James, I'm so glad you two actually managed to meet and have a discussion. I understand that there's indeed much to be discussed. A lovely event, Mr. Mr. Fosley. Lord Fosley. [01:28:24] Speaker A: Forgive me, just call me Richard. It's fine. I dare say the days where we have to attach law into everything will matter very little. And I'll be young entrepreneurs like yourselves that make everything matter. [01:28:41] Speaker E: Indeed. An interesting dream. By all means, elucidate. [01:28:49] Speaker A: Well, here's the thing. The old money, well, is quite literally old. And it's slowly dying over time. We reached too far. We're losing too many things. And now we have to expand into far distant places to get anywhere which families like the Grams and the Pluckett family, when Redwich Nick nods over to where Redwich is, have done in spades. And it's all paying off immensely. And that's where power is going to come from. That's where. But you don't need to be a lord you just need to be a man with land, money, influence. Even more. But it's not given to you by anything. You purchased it, you worked it. And it's yours now. And they can't do anything about it. And when I see the two of you. He points at both of you. That's the ambition. I see pride in your work and I want to make sure that happens. [01:29:41] Speaker E: An interesting proposal, to be sure. Have you two been talking details? [01:29:46] Speaker A: Yes. James is like. He has put money towards several of the lands I was looking to purchase to build warehouses in. There's a dock over in Liverpool. And Fielding. Fielding falsely nods that we are going to purchase to make it easy to ship things over the tunnel. And he looks really excited. We've already signed several documents. I have land deeds back at my house that I'm going to be putting in a safe. Of course, I have a secretary. [01:30:25] Speaker E: As well you should. I'm. I'm always pleased to see a friend succeed. And Lord Fosley. Richard. The aid of one in your position is undeniably valuable. I. Forgive me a moment of cynicism, but beyond the expansion of industry as a whole, what do you seek in return? [01:31:01] Speaker A: Mr. Fielding? Look where you're sitting. What more do I need? I'm not. Is this self serving? Of course it is. The joy of watching other people succeed is something I'm going to revel in. Of course I Not gonna deny that. But I'm not putting my name all over his properties. I'm not gonna hold my money over his head. I want to succeed. [01:31:26] Speaker E: And nor would I assume you would. You seem a man of grace and care above such tactics. Purely altruism then. [01:31:41] Speaker A: Yes. Same thing I was offering to you. You have vision. I want you to see it through. And that's why he kind of like could. Gestures apologetically. I was mentioning the Beaufort family. They're very close. Both. We were very close to the Beauforts for a long time. Odd times, who knows? But I want to see you put your vision through. And I don't want you. I don't want you weighed down by anything. [01:32:34] Speaker E: And. And it is your impression that. [01:32:45] Speaker A: The. [01:32:45] Speaker E: Beaufort family is less likely to motivate me in the positive directions? [01:32:57] Speaker A: I will give you an example. This Flower ball. They ran it every year until I was maybe 15. They fronted twice since. It was a point of pride for them. But now suddenly they want everyone else to share that pride. There have been smatterings of a few other things, but. [01:33:25] Speaker E: Indeed. [01:33:27] Speaker A: Whatever you. I. I want to see. See you succeed. John. He like finally, like. Like John, I like your friend. Like, I want to see you succeed. Like I said, there are very few young individuals with as much ability and foresight and right now the ability to make the influences you can. [01:34:07] Speaker E: I. I concede some points. Certainly we do. We are now, I believe, in a moment when a. When the classical elements of old money begin to slip and some of us are positioned to join that society and perhaps change certain elements of it. I do not yet concede that the Beauforts would be a disadvantage to me, though you have given me a great deal to think about. And should you wish to discuss business proper, I should be honored to host you in my offices. [01:35:10] Speaker A: That sounds wonderful, but did you sit down, O.J. [01:35:15] Speaker E: Yes. Oh, yeah, yeah. [01:35:18] Speaker A: He looks over. James, Will he excuse us for a moment, just real quick? Oh, actually, yeah. Here, I'll refresh our cups. He excitedly go off. He does look back kind of confused because he's not an idiot, he's a smart individual. But a lot of that has just gone a little bit over his head because he just wasn't privy to that first part. Yeah, but then, Fossil, look at you. And the smile he was wearing is gone. Why are you intent on marrying him? [01:35:53] Speaker E: She is a woman of tremendous ability. [01:36:04] Speaker A: John. I have known the Bofors for a long time. I don't know Eloise as well as I would like, but in the brief moments that we've had together when, since we were children, I know her fairly well. Well enough, that is. He can't stand the idea. [01:36:27] Speaker E: What idea? [01:36:29] Speaker A: Of marrying you, John. [01:36:39] Speaker E: And. [01:36:43] Speaker A: You'Re a good man, John. And he'll set up, straighten up his coat. [01:36:50] Speaker E: Also stands up. [01:36:53] Speaker A: I honestly believe that the good man that you are can't stand the idea of doing this to her. I'm not too fond of it either. Woman of good standing and ability, he like slowly gestures to the ball. There are not many women like Eloise, but I guarantee you if you looked hot enough, you'd find another one. I'm sorry, there is property. And yes, I'd be glad to meet you in your office. [01:37:33] Speaker E: Good day, Sir. [01:37:34] Speaker A: Good day. Mr. Field gives you a nod. [01:37:38] Speaker D: And Will, I would actually like to use my monologue token to get an idea of how Mr. Fieldling is feeling after having that discussion with his new friend. [01:37:59] Speaker E: Y'all ready for a look under the hood? [01:38:03] Speaker A: Well, it's smoking right now. It's probably should. I don't think it's an oil change, man. Ah. [01:38:19] Speaker E: When one imagines a pit of vipers, one assumes enemies One can fight. Yet here I find myself not sure what's a viper and a rope to climb out. This man seems variable. A bastard, perhaps. Just as possibly an ally to accomplish necessary goals. He says that Eloise is unhappy. Unfortunate, it is sure. But he's also not wrong about their fortunes. Should their fortunes truly be in as dire straits as evidence begins to suggest, then a marriage is. Marriage is likely to continue. I shall have to keep my eye on that other. The teacher. Allow him around that he might brighten her day. But never leave them alone. I am lucky to have the Colonel at least as a trusted friend. But I do not like it here as much as I enjoy the pleasant company, the delightful food. There are more angles in these people than in many of my dealings in business. A cutthroat industry, people say. Well, if I have to cut a throat or two and a happiness in order to achieve that, my children, my children's children, might never face the things that I did. So be it. Grand mathematics of God's greener. What. What can be said to be the value of a little suffering versus the good it might create? He's not wrong. Eloise is a singular woman. And that she be unhappy with me is a shame. But if that is how it must be, then that is how it must be. I shall not waver from my course. So be it. And then I go get a drink. [01:41:35] Speaker A: That the end of your monologue? [01:41:36] Speaker E: That's the end of my monologue. [01:41:38] Speaker A: Well said. As you go get a drink. As you're like, rounding the corner, you see Daniel just like a few feet away, hat still on, just like choking the beard as if he's contemplating something. Notices you. Ah, Mr. Fielding. Enjoying the ball? [01:42:06] Speaker E: Always. These events are nice. [01:42:14] Speaker A: Come on. [01:42:14] Speaker E: The decorations and the food. Yes. How are you? [01:42:20] Speaker A: Sorry? Oh, I. Well, after dealing with an angry governess that thought I misled her. I'm still getting used to being back among this. He liked gestures to the high society around the two of you. I've come a long way. But still. Still unusual. [01:42:49] Speaker E: Indeed. Do you have much experience in events such as this? [01:42:54] Speaker A: Oh, Welling the Earl. He found me in London when I was very young and appreciated my skill in various languages. Took me away from my father, who the Pulits were very good to me. They allowed me to live away and travel to the manor to give tutoring lessons. Both the girls are very, very sharp. Learned very quickly. Even if they tried to pretend they didn't, so the lessons would take longer. Why on earth would they do that? Well, I I mean, both of them are little extents of anything. They do love to play around. But they were good girls. [01:44:06] Speaker E: Indeed. I found Catherine to be the more lively in my own time of amongst them. [01:44:15] Speaker A: Oh, you. [01:44:21] Speaker E: You've done some excellent work there, sir. She is a singular woman. Truly accomplished. Well, everything she has, my fiance, everything. [01:44:33] Speaker A: She has regained herself. I was just lucky enough to guide her way. [01:44:38] Speaker E: Indeed, a great fortune to be sure. [01:44:43] Speaker A: Ah, but please don't let me stop you. I interrupted you wherever you are going. [01:44:47] Speaker E: Not at all. I was simply going for a drink. I would love to know more about your. Your knowing of them, your relationship, your time with the family. I have not been part of their lives nearly so long and I'm sure have surely missed out on many interesting stories. [01:45:07] Speaker A: Well, I mean, with their permission, of course. I wouldn't begin to explain the stories. [01:45:16] Speaker E: Of their childhood without certainly within acceptable bounds. But you will join me for a drink? I shall not hear. [01:45:22] Speaker A: No, you may have to looking over your shoulder as Edith is being towards the actual main house. I think she found her. [01:45:38] Speaker E: Excellent. Business concluded then. [01:45:40] Speaker A: Well, I'm going to massage anyone. I. I will join you as soon as I can. Forgive me. Nods and very well. Carries off. He doesn't scurry afterwards. [01:45:57] Speaker E: Towards Edith? [01:45:58] Speaker A: Yeah, if anything it's like towards Edith for a while and then kind of banks a right like off in the distance, but you don't see where he's going. Okay, so do two more things. This thing first. Colonel. Yes? Where are you at, dude? Where are you hanging out? [01:46:28] Speaker C: Well, my friend said we should go for a walk. Then, you know, things got a little convoluted, but I decided to stick with the idea to go for a walk and get away from the drama. So he is a. He has crested a hill and is in enjoying the view of the countryside. [01:46:49] Speaker A: Hilt swaying in the breeze. Yep, indeed it would be. At that time it's like, Ah, there you are. And you hear the voice of. Well, actually, did Catherine or Eloise want to say something? [01:47:05] Speaker B: I was gonna play a monologue token against a good colonel now that he has a moment to reflect. [01:47:17] Speaker A: Okay, I'll wait. [01:47:18] Speaker C: Go ahead. [01:47:20] Speaker A: Okay. [01:47:24] Speaker C: So a couple of hills down there's a. The standard country estate. Great block of stone and glass. He's got his hands clasped behind his back. And. [01:47:45] Speaker A: Who'D. [01:47:47] Speaker C: Who'd choose to live in a place like this surrounded by people who are always trying to claw you down? At least on the battlefield you can. You can generally tell who's out to get you. They're the ones with weapons pointed in your general direction. Lord, I want to go home. That's strange to say. Wasn't always thus, was it? Now everyone's so excited to see me. It's always that joke, isn't it? The air and the spare. No one thinks about the spare till the air gets run over by an angry boar. I should go back soon. This time next year it'll be oh, oh, your grace this and oh, your grace that. No one will call me Colonel anymore. And certainly no one will make any wry comments about the dangers of looking happy. She could be so much more than this, so much more than his. He's a decent enough man, but she's not a piece of cloth to be cut to sheep. All right, enough of your. Enough of your wee wailing, Tommy boy. You have a duty to perform. It's the best. Get about it. End monologue. As he turns back towards the party. [01:49:58] Speaker A: Excellent. On top of one of the rolling hills that he went down. Like where the party is, you do in fact see, surrounded by Bailey, Bonnie Bess, Bren Blair, Bella Brutus, Baron Bernard, Bo Bentley, Bootsy and Zarius, Aunt Carolyn, who also decided to take a stroll, finally seeing her dogs after probably not seeing them for a few hours, panning herself. And she's looking down through the rolling green at you. And even from this distance you see with the sunlight just a dazzling smile as she's looking down at you, fanning herself. Just waiting for you to come back. [01:50:43] Speaker C: Lady Caroline says with a. With a nod of his head. I do hope I didn't give any offense earlier. I had heard. I had heard stories and gave them more credence than I should have. [01:50:55] Speaker A: No, no, no, I. Whatever offense you may have met. I meant. Well, let me praise that entirely. Whatever offense may have happened was quickly forgotten by you, uh, dancing with one of my nieces, as you did. [01:51:14] Speaker C: Your niece is as graceful as she is lovely. [01:51:20] Speaker A: Which one, Colonel? And she gives you a pointed look. [01:51:27] Speaker C: I believe that that could be said truly of both of them, milady. [01:51:33] Speaker A: Ay, alright, but which one do you have? Your eyes? Which one do you intend? [01:51:39] Speaker C: That's a rather forward question. [01:51:41] Speaker A: You're being rather forward with both of them, aren't you? [01:51:44] Speaker C: Usually that's reserved for me. [01:51:47] Speaker A: Well, I'm away from the party and I'm surrounded by a group of dogs covering me in fur. I'm not feeling too ladylike at the moment and I rather don't care. [01:51:59] Speaker C: Lady Caroline, I will beg your. I will deep, with deepest regret beg your pardon, but I could not possibly answer that question without speaking to their parents first. No, could I? [01:52:13] Speaker A: She snaps the fan closed and she gives you like a the cold. That's a stern look. I'm the reason that as many people as looking at them as they're on now, their parents have nothing to do with it. Their parents whittled away most of the fortune in so many different things. And I'm being fooled with you and frank with you because I believe you'll be frank with me in return. I want them to be happy and I want them away from that accursed abbey. [01:52:45] Speaker C: I see. Well, again, I do not believe I could answer your question directly before speaking to their parents as matter of propriety's sake. But in the spirit of frankness in which you have addressed me, I will share something with you, pleading that you keep it in your confidence. [01:53:12] Speaker A: Of course. [01:53:14] Speaker C: I am obliged, before the season begins in the summer, to send word of my engagement back home. My older brother Douglas, who is the heir to Argyll, was gravely injured, took ill from his injuries and will be unable to fulfill the duties that were assigned to him at birth. So my father, the Duke of Argyle, will be coming down to inform His Majesty at the change of the season that there shall be a new heir to the Dukedom. So you may at least rest your heart on this. If it is a Lady Beaufort who walks down the aisle to take my hand, they shall want for nothing all their days. [01:54:26] Speaker A: The look goes away and it is like a full on gan of your soul essentially. And you notice some things for the first time because you just got a transfix on her face and how just like serious she's being about all of this. But you look around, the dogs have fully surrounded you and probably like not a tight formation but like mom said, keep him here without words. And they're doing that and you kind of realize the intense stares not just coming from her but from all searching of the dogs was in front of you. [01:55:07] Speaker C: He will take a look around at the ring and say no. May I be excused from this encirclement. [01:55:18] Speaker A: All I'm going to say is thank you for telling me your intentions. For depending on your answer I was either going to remove you from their eyeline or do everything I can to help you get to where you want where you want to be. [01:55:32] Speaker C: I I have a question though. Yes, it would be grossly inappropriate of me in to answer your question in a particular direction given that one of your nieces is already pledged to another man. That engagement seems to be under a Bit of duress, though. [01:56:01] Speaker A: Welcome to high society, dear. She'll snap the fan open, start fanning herself. Would you guide me back smiling again? [01:56:11] Speaker C: It'd be my honor. [01:56:12] Speaker A: Right. Fall in Austin, too. In fact, fall into a wonderful triangle formation around you and Sirius in front of the two of you. And as you re. Enter the party, the lady's buffalo. Where are you? [01:56:37] Speaker B: Well, Eloise ended up by herself at the end of that dance. [01:56:42] Speaker A: Yeah, you kind of diggity dipped. [01:56:43] Speaker B: Kind of just stranded with nobody to, like, cling on to. So I imagine that she just sort of, like, stepped off to the side and did her best to play wallflower so that nobody would notice. [01:56:56] Speaker A: You could spend a resolve token if you have one. [01:57:00] Speaker B: I have resolved tokens, but I don't know what I would spend them on. So I think, given the situation, she's mostly just trying to avoid being noticed by the wider crowd, that she was just sort of like. She went on to the dance floor with one man. Halfway through the dance, another man stepped in and then he just bailed on her. And that's, you know, kind of mortifying, really confusing because the Colonel seemed to be having a great time, so. And then he was just gone. [01:57:36] Speaker A: Yeah. [01:57:38] Speaker B: I don't know where Catherine is, though. [01:57:41] Speaker D: She is. She's. She actually. [01:57:43] Speaker E: Right behind you. [01:57:45] Speaker D: Right behind you. It's like that one scene from the office. She's. [01:57:53] Speaker B: The call's coming from inside the house. Yeah. [01:57:57] Speaker A: Rack. [01:57:57] Speaker E: Zoom. [01:58:01] Speaker D: Sister. [01:58:03] Speaker B: Oh, Catherine. Hello. [01:58:07] Speaker D: You look positively frightened. Or bored of both. [01:58:16] Speaker B: It's hot and uncomfortable. [01:58:20] Speaker D: Shall we maybe take a walk through the rose garden? Get a little bit of shade? [01:58:27] Speaker B: Of course. [01:58:30] Speaker D: Chill. She will offer up an arm for. For Ellie to grab onto. [01:58:37] Speaker B: Ellie will link arms with her. [01:58:44] Speaker D: How are you? Once they. Once they get far enough away from the party where he assumes there's no prying eyes. Are you feeling all right? [01:58:57] Speaker B: Entirely sure that holding a party like this outside during the day was such a good idea. [01:59:02] Speaker D: Not what I meant. You look like you have much on your mind. Naimy sister. [01:59:15] Speaker B: You can trust. I. Darling, I. If I came to you every time I had much, we would never stop talking. Ever. [01:59:26] Speaker D: And is that a bad thing? [01:59:28] Speaker B: Well, at some point, we do have to sleep and eat and attend to other things. [01:59:33] Speaker D: Maybe so. But while we're awake, you and I are. Well, I. I love Mother and Father, but sometimes I feel like it's just us. [01:59:51] Speaker B: They. Well, they're caught up in the family troubles. Best not to become another reason for them to worry. [02:00:06] Speaker D: I am aware of the. Everything that's been going on. It's still sad, you know, after. After everything had happened and mom and dad are off a lot. I don't get to see much of anybody anymore. You're getting ready to get married, and they don't pay much attention. So I always make it a. Make it a deal to spend time with you whenever I can. After all, once you're married, I won't get to see much of you either. [02:01:05] Speaker B: Yes, I'm afraid that is the nature of things, isn't it? And I'll most likely, if my husb. My future husband has anything to say about it, be spending every waking moment in London. [02:01:20] Speaker D: Yeah, but London is so dread and dreary. [02:01:26] Speaker B: Yes, well, it is where he lives and works and likely where my life will be focused. You will have to enjoy all of the gardens and the parties here for me and write back. Write to me often. Tell me how they go. [02:01:49] Speaker D: Of course. Ellie, can I. Can I ask you something? And I apologize if it comes off a bit. Brash. Bold. [02:02:04] Speaker B: What? [02:02:07] Speaker D: Are you happy? [02:02:17] Speaker B: Oh, that is, I am happy to be doing. [02:02:25] Speaker E: My mic was off. I would like to spend my monologue token on Eloise. [02:02:30] Speaker B: You dick. [02:02:31] Speaker E: Okay, but you think you're gonna just pretend to answer that question? No. Get real. [02:02:41] Speaker A: We don't do that around here. What do you. [02:02:54] Speaker B: I don't. I've spent so long under the weight of expectation. Even before our brother died, it was on me to make a good match. To further strengthen the family position, bring in a bit more financial support, and shore up the faulty foundations for the family. Not sure I know what happy feels like anymore. I am searching for something close to contentment. A way to be at peace with my lot underway. To ensure that Catherine, always so willful and lively and seemingly incapable settling down, is able to find a match that makes her happy. And if what it takes to get that for her is to marry a man I don't love, store up the family fortunes, and wear a smile while I do it, then so be it. I'm under no illusions. Pairing with Mr. Fielding, even if he is too much a gentleman to say so, would benefit as. Benefit him as much as it would benefit my family. So I will do what I have been trained to do since I was a little girl. And I will be the ideal lady, the perfect wife, perfect mother. And if I can help it, they'll never see me falter, no matter how much it weighs. And monologue. [02:06:06] Speaker A: Aubel. [02:06:09] Speaker B: I'm. I believe that I have anything any woman could hope for in a good life. [02:06:24] Speaker D: That doesn't answer my question. Ellie, I. Listen, I know. I know what people say about me. But if there's one thing that I am, it's insightful to those that I love and those that I care about. I want you to know that. I know that ever since brother passed away, you had to bear the burden of a lot. You are a good woman. And I just hope that whatever it is that this life brings you, it brings you the happiness that you deserve. You have always been a wonderful sister. And I don't think that I tell you that often enough. [02:07:47] Speaker B: Thank you. [02:07:55] Speaker D: Do you really want to marry him? Your silence is an answer enough. Actually. [02:08:11] Speaker B: I am happy to do what. [02:08:13] Speaker D: I have agreed to do. If that ever changes. You aren't the only one who has to marry for fortune, you know. [02:08:33] Speaker B: I am. [02:08:36] Speaker D: No, you're not. I. Catherine, I. Auntie had pulled me in a few months back. She says that if I get. If I can court the gentleman that she thinks is best suited for me, she has an inheritance, one that she is locked away. I can bring the money back to our family if it means seeing you happy. You've given up far too much in your life. I don't wish to see you have to give up your happiness. [02:09:37] Speaker A: So at this point you would hear the pitter patter of frantic feet and Catherine, you do see Jasper kind of birding a large part of the party to get over to you. He kind of stopped and you can tell he's been moving at speed for quite some time. Oh, there you are. I have interesting news for you if you'd like to hear it. [02:10:09] Speaker D: Oh, I'm sad. Eloise, I am sure that you remember my. My dear friend Baron Jasper as of recent days. Very well then I shall call to you again. Baron Jasper. [02:10:35] Speaker A: Oh boy. So he just like leans a little, like he doesn't break the distance, but he's like. I overheard your aunt and the Colonel talking. [02:10:47] Speaker B: I will leave the two of you to it, apparently. And she will curtsy very politely. [02:10:57] Speaker A: It's a matter of your importance too. [02:10:59] Speaker B: She's gone. She's already walked away. [02:11:03] Speaker D: No, don't. [02:11:05] Speaker B: She's smart enough to know that they are friends and that this is probably going to be gossipy time. And she tries very hard not to be present for things like that. [02:11:17] Speaker D: Oh, did she hear. And we better make this quick. I don't want people. I'm trying to be better. [02:11:32] Speaker A: Yes, it is. It'll be very, very quick. I think I didn't hear it very well because there was a group of older gentlemen laughing over some hunting incident. I'm not quite sure but I believe the Colonel attends to speak to your parents about. Well, one of you. [02:11:59] Speaker D: Oh. And she instantly. And she instantly looks back to Eloise and then looks back. Very well. That is wonderful news to hear. The Colonel is a very good man. I am sure whoever he intends to court will be a very lucky lady. [02:12:34] Speaker A: Intend the court get engaged. [02:12:41] Speaker D: I am aware of that, Jasper. [02:12:46] Speaker A: I thought you'd be happy. I'm sorry. I'm sorry. [02:13:02] Speaker D: It is okay. [02:13:10] Speaker A: Well no, I'm not going to be sorry. You need to have more confidence in yourself. Honestly. It's engaged. And I. I've always thought she was really nice. But you're amazing. And I know he sees that. [02:13:40] Speaker D: I. I'm far too young for a man like him. [02:13:46] Speaker A: No. [02:13:47] Speaker D: Enough. [02:13:48] Speaker A: Catherine. Catherine. You need to have faith in yourself. Enough of this putting yourself down. I won't have it anymore. It's you. Who else would he caught? It doesn't make sense to court your s. That's beyond taboo. That would just put his standing in the most ridiculous position. That would ruin so much for him if even suggested about such thing. [02:14:18] Speaker D: Maybe you're right. Maybe. Maybe you're right. I. [02:14:30] Speaker A: You're my friend. [02:14:31] Speaker D: Yes, of course I'm your friend. And you are my dearest and most sincere friend. [02:14:41] Speaker A: Then forgive me for being too direct. Catherine, have faith in yourself. I have enough for both of us. But now I'm giving that faith to you. I truly hope one day you can see the person I think you are, who your sister thinks you are and who he knows you're going to be. Yes. [02:15:11] Speaker D: May I be honest with you for one moment? [02:15:15] Speaker A: Always. [02:15:24] Speaker D: I keep failing every turn that I make. And for once I wish I could just. I wish I could be happy. I've made the decision that if it brings my sister joy and gives her the freedom that she deserves to finally settle down and just be a lady. Do what I'm supposed to do. [02:16:19] Speaker B: I would like to spend a resolve token. I would like Jasper to be so moved by this moment and the pain on his friend's face that he hugs her. [02:16:36] Speaker A: Is that okay with you, Lus? [02:16:37] Speaker D: Yeah. [02:16:39] Speaker A: Yeah. He. You see, he says he shakes all the time, but for the first time in a long while you see him just like feel his resolve and he stops shaking and he just goes in and gives you a deep hug. Yes. [02:17:06] Speaker D: At that point Catherine loses it. [02:17:10] Speaker A: Yep. And being as aware as he is as a person, he will make sure to steer you into just like. Just out of view before anyone notices. But he lets you try as long as you need to. [02:17:31] Speaker D: What am I going to do? Jasper. [02:17:36] Speaker A: You'Re going to be strong. And I'm going to be here every step of the way. You understand? They're not going to do anything to you that you don't want. Not while I'm around. It's got this damn title but heaven if I don't use it for something about this. [02:18:05] Speaker D: You're good man. You're gonna make somebody very happy someday. And I just hope that whoever that is knows how to stop making you shake. [02:18:19] Speaker A: Oh. Looks at his hands and notices. Great. [02:18:28] Speaker D: I need to. I need to calm down. I don't need anybody seeing me in such a state. [02:18:36] Speaker A: He pulls out a handkerchief. I think if we go around the long way we could probably get into one of my family's carriages without anyone noticing and take you home if you'd like. [02:18:59] Speaker D: I think. I don't think I should leave. Not. Not yet. I don't want anybody to worry. [02:19:17] Speaker A: Hours. [02:19:18] Speaker D: You are such a wonderful person. Thank you for being such a good friend to me. It might be best if we separate when we go back to the party. Eventually. I don't want there to be a scene. I don't want there to be. Quite frankly. I don't need. I don't need the speculation. [02:19:54] Speaker A: Oh yeah. [02:19:59] Speaker D: Not that. You know, not, not, not that. Listen, I just need to try my hardest to prove that I'm not a complete and total failure. Nobody likes a woman with too much ambition. [02:20:30] Speaker A: They cannot go to hell. I love your ambition. I kiss you. [02:20:44] Speaker D: What? [02:20:47] Speaker A: Overthinker spent their resolve token to see if Jasper could kiss you. Are you okay with that? [02:20:54] Speaker E: Oh no. I spent an over a resolve token to enter the scene. [02:20:58] Speaker D: Oh. [02:21:00] Speaker E: Although I definitely think that other things should happen too. [02:21:03] Speaker A: Yeah, I mean I misread that entirely because I thought you meant to kiss to happen on this scene. Okay, never mind. I misread that entirely. It is up to you because it would take a token to make that happen. Only if Legacy is okay with it. [02:21:18] Speaker D: Yeah. Yeah, I'm fine with it. [02:21:19] Speaker A: Is that cool with you? [02:21:21] Speaker E: Yeah. [02:21:25] Speaker A: May I get you. [02:21:36] Speaker D: Jasper, that's. [02:21:39] Speaker A: No, you're right. [02:21:41] Speaker D: No, I. [02:21:44] Speaker A: No, that's the wrong way to do this. [02:21:49] Speaker D: And she is. She is going to look around and see if anybody is like watching. [02:21:59] Speaker E: Lady Catherine. [02:22:02] Speaker D: Hello, mister. [02:22:04] Speaker A: Wait. What? You want us to happen, don't you? What are you doing? [02:22:10] Speaker E: I thought I just entered this scene. [02:22:12] Speaker A: Now wait, no, I meant the kiss. Or are you happening on the scene? Wait. Happened? I don't know. [02:22:19] Speaker E: I don't know. [02:22:21] Speaker D: Yes, all of it, apparently. [02:22:23] Speaker A: Okay, cool then. All right. [02:22:24] Speaker E: I'm currently approaching cool. [02:22:27] Speaker A: All right. So like I said. Continue. [02:22:32] Speaker D: Ms. Sophia thing. How do I. And she dusts herself off and just wipes a. Wipes the couple of the tears off of her face. Mr. Fielding, this is a dear childhood friend of mine, Baron Jasper Goodman. Baron Jasper Goodman. [02:22:57] Speaker E: Armed. Mr. Goodman. [02:22:59] Speaker A: A pleasure to meet you as well. He's shaking again. [02:23:04] Speaker E: Forgive the interruption. I. I was. You know, I'm not sure what I was doing. [02:23:13] Speaker D: Oh. [02:23:17] Speaker E: Please excuse me. [02:23:22] Speaker D: Is everything all right, Mr. Fielding? [02:23:25] Speaker E: Certainly. Certainly. All is well. [02:23:31] Speaker D: Wonderful. [02:23:35] Speaker E: If I. [02:23:39] Speaker D: Yes. [02:23:39] Speaker E: I'm going to head back in a moment. [02:23:42] Speaker D: Okay. [02:23:44] Speaker E: Are you. [02:23:46] Speaker D: I'm. Oh, sorry. My. My apologies. Be. Stung me in. You know, those. [02:23:56] Speaker E: How dreadful. [02:23:57] Speaker D: Yes. And unfortunately, the. The. The stinger often makes tears fall out of my eyes. I. I promise I am. I am all right, though, Mr. Baron. Jasper was just giving me a handkerchief so I could wipe the tears away and clean up the. The little bump. [02:24:26] Speaker E: Certainly not necessary. [02:24:31] Speaker A: He. You. You hear him kind of like audibly, like, gulp. Which I'm not going to do over the mic. And you, Catherine, you feel him, like, steal himself again. And then taking stops. I just wanted to help her. She was in pain for a bit and wanted to make sure I was away from prying eyes. I. I'll make sure she's okay. Mr. Fibbling. [02:25:03] Speaker E: He'S gonna look at Catherine and be. And give her like a. Is this good? [02:25:12] Speaker D: She'll. She'll. She'll shake her head. You have nothing to worry about, Mr. Fielding. Jasper Baron. Jasper and I have. Have been friends since we were small. [02:25:27] Speaker E: He is certainly. [02:25:29] Speaker D: He has nothing but the purest of intentions. I am just a delicate flower. [02:25:41] Speaker E: Should you wish an escort, I believe I shall walk the perimeter of the rose garden. Be back this way in a few minutes. [02:25:51] Speaker D: Thank you, Mr. Fielding. It is greatly appreciated. [02:25:58] Speaker E: Looks between the two of them again, just clocking so much, and walks away. [02:26:09] Speaker D: The moment that he turns, the moment that he's, like, far enough away, she lets out just an audible sigh. [02:26:17] Speaker A: I'm. What? I'm not shaking. [02:26:20] Speaker D: You're not shaking. You're doing so well. [02:26:26] Speaker A: Yes, well, much bigger than me. And yes, here's what I'm going to say right now. And he turns to you and he has that same look of resolve. I will. I will be back in Frederwich in about a week or maybe two. And I will visit you and your parents and I will speak to your father and Mother. Clearly, if you see pop out of sense about my intention because. So we. I would. I would like to quote you, if possible, not that I'm not doing that already, but I'd like to do that in a much more formal fashion because this is quite inappropriate. And we. Did we just actually, Picard, just now. Goodness. [02:27:32] Speaker D: I. I think that would be lovely. But you're gonna have to speak to my aunt as well. And the dogs. Oh, not the dogs and the dogs. The dogs have to approve. I love my family very much, but if the dogs don't approve, then I simply cannot do it. [02:27:55] Speaker A: Well, they like me, but Prutus keeps eating my shoes. [02:27:58] Speaker D: Then. Then you know that you're already a part of the family. Therefore you shouldn't have a problem with my aunt. [02:28:10] Speaker A: Ah. That's what we'll do. [02:28:18] Speaker D: And she offers him a hand. [02:28:24] Speaker A: You woke us up. [02:28:29] Speaker D: Unfortunately, that's as much as we can do for now. But I am. [02:28:34] Speaker A: I already got a hug in today. I'll take it. [02:28:39] Speaker D: Wonderful. [02:28:48] Speaker A: He starts shaking again. A little red in the face. [02:28:52] Speaker D: Yo, you really are like the greyhounds, aren't you? [02:28:58] Speaker A: I. [02:29:00] Speaker C: It's. [02:29:07] Speaker A: Goodness, you're beautiful. I'm going to go now. Yeah. And he like definitely walks away. [02:29:17] Speaker D: Baron Jasper, it's always a pleasure indeed. [02:29:28] Speaker A: Like, if no one thought there was anything suspicious going on over there, the way he like exits around the corner. Thankfully there's like a different route you can take, but like, yeah, she'll wait for. [02:29:38] Speaker B: For. For. [02:29:38] Speaker D: For Mr. John to come and pick her up from the rose garden. [02:29:47] Speaker A: Yep. Here comes Mr. Fielding. [02:29:52] Speaker E: Ms. Catherine. [02:29:55] Speaker B: Ms. [02:29:57] Speaker D: Fielding. [02:29:59] Speaker E: I trust you are feeling better after your be. Sting. [02:30:05] Speaker D: Yes, it is rather unfortunate bees out. [02:30:11] Speaker E: This time of year, but at least the three of us were able to enjoy a lengthy conversation about music. Right? [02:30:20] Speaker D: Music and art. [02:30:23] Speaker E: Indeed. [02:30:24] Speaker D: Poetry. [02:30:27] Speaker B: Mr. [02:30:27] Speaker D: Fielding. [02:30:30] Speaker E: I apologize for waxing extensively about an Antoine Vivaldi, but I do enjoy his work. [02:30:39] Speaker D: His works are mighty, mighty fine. Shall we make our way back to the party? [02:30:45] Speaker E: I believe we shall. And he offers an arm. [02:30:48] Speaker D: Sure, we'll take it. [02:30:51] Speaker A: All right. As you make your way back to the party. It is gently winding down before we wrap up. Colonel, you did guide the good Lady Carolyn back to the party and had just pleasant conversation. She does seem to actually enjoy your company. Goes forward to like the very much protective wolf over her cubs. Like, what do you want with them? But she does actually seem to enjoy your company. And as you're like circling around one of the gardens, you do see Eloise by herself. And also seeing that V The good Lady Carolyn is like, oh, I think the dogs made me. And just gives you like a squeeze on your arm before just slipping away into the crowd with a practice movement. You've probably done that way too many times. [02:32:00] Speaker C: The Colonel freezes as though he has become part of the garden statuary. [02:32:06] Speaker A: It's a mighty nice statue right there. What do you do? [02:32:17] Speaker B: Apologize? My headset cut out. What's happening? [02:32:24] Speaker A: Oh, Lady Carolyn and the Colonel have. Are officially back in the party. And as they're walking, they notice you exiting one of the gardens and Lady Carolyn squeezes his arm and just like dip away from the area to go to a different part of the party. [02:32:44] Speaker B: And just leaves us there. Cool. Great. [02:32:48] Speaker A: Yeah. [02:32:49] Speaker B: Please tell me that we are close enough to the party to not be considered unchaperoned. [02:32:54] Speaker A: Oh, no, there's like other people in this little enclosure area where there's a couple seating areas and stuff like that. There are people talking. So if you want to talk, it would be like, oh, God, well, what's happening there? So you can talk to him if you choose. You can just dip. It's up to you. [02:33:09] Speaker B: I mean, if my aunt just walks off and he looks super uncomfortable, Eloise will dip him. A very low and graceful curtsy. It seems there was a bit of a mix up during the steps earlier. I apologize. We look for losing you. [02:33:33] Speaker C: The Colonel bows. The fault is mine. And you are a dear thing to be lost indeed. My deepest apologies. [02:33:50] Speaker B: She's blushing and kind of like half hiding her face behind her hand because. What do you say to that? I do hope my aunt didn't. Didn't make you too uncomfortable. She can be forward. [02:34:10] Speaker C: My ankles shall survive the encounter a bit worse for wear, but nothing, no, no worse than the. The Frenchman ever. [02:34:22] Speaker B: Good. [02:34:26] Speaker C: My lady, may I be permitted takes a deep breath to escort you back to your fiance? [02:34:39] Speaker B: Of course. Thank you. [02:34:46] Speaker C: And he will offer his arm and walk her back to Jon. [02:34:51] Speaker A: So it's an interesting sight as the party starts to wind down just on one side of the garden and across the ball. You just see Catherine and John exiting one garden and like looking across, you see exiting the garden on the other side, Eloise and Thomas and all four of you are looking across this ball at each other. As the camera pans out and as the sun slowly, slowly, surely sets over Foxford Cross and the end of what was a beautiful flower ball. We're going to end this episode of the Good Society here.