Одержимость

СЕРИАЛ NETFLIX

10 ЛЕТ НАЗАД

Спокойно.

Вот так, не спеши.

Он огромный.

Перед пулей не устоит.

Достаточно одного

меткого выстрела в сердце,

чтобы сразить самую крупную добычу.

Это невозможно.

Ничего. Будут и другие возможности.

Я каждый раз промахиваюсь.

Уже слышу, что скажет Бенедикт.

- И Колин.

- Так не сдавайся. Продолжай.

Они будут невыносимы.

Покажи мне, как ты это делаешь!

Идем.

Уверенность играет ключевую роль.

Еще не нажав на крючок, ты уже решил,

что олень слишком крупный.

Ты научишься. Со временем.

У тебя всё так просто.

Тебя ничем не смутить, верно?

Твоя мать нашла бы

что сказать по этому поводу.

Чтобы показать свою лучшую сторону,

нужно открыться с худшей.

Кстати, вот это ее порадует.

Они прелестны, не так ли?

Дафна будет ревновать, если обойдем ее.

Что за…

Отец?

Тварь меня ужалила.

Бывает…

Отец?

Что такое?

Отец!

Что?

- Не могу…

- Помогите!

Кто-нибудь, пожалуйста! Помогите!

Отец!

Помогите!

Что случилось?

Я не знаю!

Пчела? Кажется, пчела.

Пчела? Эдмунд.

- Эдмунд, дыши.

- Я не могу…

Нет.

Прошу, нет. Не покидай меня.

Нет, Эдмунд!

Не покидай меня!

Нет!

Боже!

Дети.

Они не должны его видеть.

Энтони!

Иди!

Мы все знаем,

на что готова юная леди,

чтобы получить

предложение руки и сердца.

Даже далекое путешествие не станет

для нее препятствием.

Лорд Энтони Бриджертон

по-прежнему полон решимости

выбрать свою виконтессу.

С этой целью он пригласил наш бриллиант

в свое родовое поместье, Обри-холл.

На ужин надену платье розового шелка.

- Лорду Бриджертону понравится?

- Ну конечно.

Не стоит беспокоиться

о благосклонности виконта, мисс Эдвина.

Приглашение провести

пару дней с его семьей

до прибытия остальных гостей -

очень хороший знак.

Возможно, на балу

вы объявите о помолвке.

Он будет оценивать меня, я знаю.

Мою способность стать виконтессой.

И не только он.

Ты тоже должна понять,

действительно ли он тебе подходит.

Именно.

Мы все должны провести

эту неделю наблюдая и оценивая.

Я буду образцом любезности.

Очень хорошо.

Решено, на ужин в розовом.

Верно говорят: деревенский воздух

очищает разум и бодрит тело.

Станет ли этот визит решающим толчком,

склонившим виконта к предложению?

Тем же, кому не посчастливилось

остаться в городе,

придется искать новые развлечения

в отсутствие

нашей блистательной драгоценности.

Пенелопа, сядь,

у меня от тебя несварение будет.

Прости, мама.

У нас масса дел

до отъезда к Бриджертонам.

После завтрака поедем к модистке.

Сегодня?

Отправляетесь делать визиты, милорд?

К кому же?

- Я думал заглянуть в клуб.

- Прекрасная идея.

Уверена, вам понравится

тамошнее общество.

Доброго дня, леди.

Нужно радоваться,

что он еще не выбрал себе невесту.

Это лишь вопрос времени.

Он приведет сюда красотку,

а мы окажемся на улице.

Возможно, мисс Оксбридж.

Позволю заметить, милейшая девица.

Варли. Это не к месту.

Нам нужно найти кого-то

податливого.

Кто ничего не смыслит и будет

не в состоянии

взять на себя управление хозяйством.

Вот что нам нужно.

Вопрос в том…

…где ее найти?

Я хочу переехать в комнату Филиппы.

Она больше, и это нечестно.

Что?

Мы как раз обсуждали,

что лорд Фэзерингтон - выгодная партия.

- Для кого?

- Для тебя.

Он наш кузен.

Пенелопа.

Но он и правда кузен.

С каких пор это стало проблемой?

Браки между кузенами вовсе не редкость.

Это по-королевски.

Взгляните на монаршую семью.

К тому же он ваш четвероюродный брат.

Разве ты не хочешь

быть хозяйкой этого дома, Пруденс?

Устраивать балы и приемы

на зависть всем подругам?

- А я смогу?

- Если захочешь.

Ты очаруешь его.

С нашей помощью.

Тебе понадобится

новое платье или даже два,

чтобы быстрее склонить его.

Склонить к чему?

Неважно. Нам срочно нужно к модистке!

Сестра!

Я так рада, что ты смогла приехать.

Я же не могла допустить,

чтобы Оги пропустил мамину победу

в нашем традиционном турнире.

- Второй год подряд.

- Герцогиня, вы сама доброта.

Я всё еще Бриджертон.

Элоиза, взгляни на малыша.

Разве он успел измениться?

Он вырос на целый дюйм, верно?

Смотри, кто это?

Любовь моя.

- Идем.

- Да.

- Вот так. Держи.

- Нет.

Не обращай внимания, малыш.

Тетя Элоиза слишком занята чтением,

чтобы замечать что-то еще.

Ему не пора спать?

Дядя Колин мигом усыпит тебя

своими рассказами о путешествиях.

Да. Мне уже не хватает

покоя и уединения греческих островов.

Наслаждаешься короткой передышкой

в общении с юными леди,

одержимыми мыслями о браке?

Совсем наоборот, сестра.

Я пригласил одну из них и ее семью

присоединиться к нам сегодня.

- Энтони пригласил девушку в Обри-холл?

- Да, и она очень мила.

Вот это да!

Не терпится познакомиться

с женщиной, покорившей тебя.

Расскажи мне о ней.

Мисс Эдвина - воплощение

грации, красоты и очарования.

К сожалению, у нее есть

противная сестрица,

стоящая на страже.

Боюсь, вы все должны помочь мне

завоевать обеих сестер.

Чтобы я мог жениться.

Ты просишь о помощи?

Боже, да эта девушка тебя покорила.

Или сестра - серьезное препятствие.

Не бойся, Энтони.

Учитывая твои усилия в прошлом году,

мой долг - ответить тем же.

Это обещание или угроза?

Наконец-то!

Вот моя награда

за столь утомительное путешествие -

увидеть моего чудесного крестника.

Здравствуй.

Мы очень рады видеть вас, леди Данбери.

Ваша Светлость.

- Леди Мэри. Рада вас видеть.

- Спасибо за приглашение.

- Моя дочь, Эдвина.

- Рада вас видеть.

- Как и вашу старшую дочь.

- Кейт, моя старшая.

Вы улыбаетесь.

План завоевания уже работает.

Я улыбалась прекрасному виду,

который вы теперь заслонили.

- Захватили собачку?

- Да.

Ньютон отлично разбирается в людях.

Видите?

Уверяю вас, мисс Шарма.

К концу визита ваше мнение обо мне

значительно улучшится.

Как и его.

Вы, оказывается, оптимист.

Вы сами признались

в намерении манипулировать мной.

Думаю, вы можете

рассчитывать на улучшение.

А вы, должно быть, мисс Эдвина.

Нет.

Это ее сестра.

Мисс Кейт Шарма.

Простите, мисс Шарма.

Я польщена, Ваша Светлость.

Позвольте представить вам

мою сестру, мисс Эдвину.

Для меня это честь, Ваша Светлость.

Мисс Эдвина, я рад

представить вам Обри-холл.

Это прекрасный дом.

Спасибо за приглашение.

Я очень рада провести время

с вами и вашей семьей.

Уверена, вы устали с дороги.

Миссис Уилсон.

Прошу, покажите гостям комнаты,

чтобы они могли отдохнуть.

И подготовиться к игре.

Верно.

О чём вы?

Не обращайте внимания на Элоизу.

За городом она очень бойкая.

В этом мы похожи.

Мама?

Думаю, мне кое-что понадобится.

Полагаю, ты тверд в своем решении?

Я ясно выразил намерения.

Помни, не стоит спешить

в таком важном вопросе.

Шарма только приехали.

Вам стоит получше узнать друг друга.

Это лишнее.

Мисс Эдвина станет

идеальной виконтессой.

Этот дом хранит много воспоминаний.

Хороших и плохих.

Надеюсь, ты четко знаешь, что делаешь.

Ты давно хотела, чтобы я женился.

- А теперь просишь подождать?

- Вовсе нет.

Я лишь хочу, чтобы ты был уверен.

Милорд?

Милорд, вы позволите

начать приготовления?

Нужно пригласить священника.

Понадобится гроб. Нужно его заказать.

Милорд, что делать с телом?

Вынести его из покоев?

А еще письма.

- Письма?

- Уведомления о кончине.

Не только членам семьи, но и общине.

Нужно послать за доктором.

Истерика не унимается.

И еще один вопрос, милорд.

Ключи от кабинета уже у вас?

Мы не можем их найти.

Это может повредить ребенку.

Я позабочусь о вещах вашей матери,

но мне нужно знать, куда их перенести.

Зачем всё это?

Теперь это ваши покои, милорд.

Теперь вы виконт.

Специально для Колина. В прошлый раз

он поставил их около сарая для коз.

Каковы правила этой игры?

В пэлл-мэлл они не главное.

Здесь важна цель.

Нужно провести мяч через все воротца.

Побеждает тот,

кто первым пройдет последние.

Всё просто.

Но если вам не чуждо коварство,

можно выбить мяч противника

как можно дальше

от его следующих воротец.

Зачем, если цель -

провести свой мяч сквозь воротца?

Чтобы разозлить соперника?

Именно. Плохой игрок играет в игру.

Умный играет против противников.

Думаю, мне понравится эта игра.

Продолжим. Бенедикт хорошо бьет,

но избегает конфликтов.

Колин хитер.

Он нанесет удар,

когда его совсем не ждешь.

Так что всегда будьте начеку.

Элоизе нужно одно -

обойти старших братьев.

Будем надеяться,

в процессе она забудет о вас.

Я же полна загадок

и не стану раскрывать свои тайны.

- Элоиза.

- Теперь об Энтони.

Попробую угадать.

Самый беспощадный из всех.

Вижу, вы его раскусили.

Это не значит, что у него нет чести.

Обычно он очень галантен в спорте.

Но только не во время этого поединка.

Уверена, виконт - отличный игрок.

Нас ждет приятное времяпровождение.

МОДИСТКА

Вырез должен быть глубже.

Нужно подчеркнуть все достоинства.

- Глубже.

- Мадам, я вынуждена возразить.

- Я не за это плачу.

- Вырез…

Я плачу за то, чтобы вы меня слушались.

Если подумать, возможно, дело в ткани.

Говорят, через дорогу новая модистка.

Недавно приехала из Вены.

Возможно, она сумеет подчеркнуть

твои достоинства, Пруденс.

Идем, оденем тебя.

Мне нравятся ваши модели.

Merci beaucoup, мисс Пенелопа.

У меня вечно

что-то с платьями приключается.

На днях я порвала лиф, домой пришлось

возвращаться в платье горничной.

- Думаю, вы меня видели.

- Не припомню.

Часто там бываете?

Тот район далековат

от модных магазинов.

Могу задать вам тот же вопрос.

Но не стану.

Я предпочитаю не лезть в чужие дела.

- А вы?

- Я…

Да, абсолютно согласна.

Ваши шелка, мэм.

Положите вон там.

Надеюсь, они мне пригодятся.

Бросим монету.

Мы решили, что выбирает младший.

Выбираем в алфавитном порядке.

- Как всегда.

- Это же игра, не так ли?

Перестаньте.

Мы должны отдать право выбора

молотков и первого удара нашим гостям.

Прошу, выбирайте, мисс Эдвина.

Отличный выбор.

- Молоток смерти.

- Вот это да, братец.

- Он ваш?

- Вовсе нет. Пользуйтесь на здоровье.

- Ты чуть не убил меня…

- Не преувеличивай.

Вы суеверны?

Для некоторых мужчин

важны привычные вещи.

Как одеяло для малыша.

Я отлично играю любым молотком.

Желаю вам удачи.

Будем весь день выбирать или сыграем?

- Нет!

- Это мой.

На поле боя!

Идемте.

О да!

Не в форме, братец?

Что ж.

Позвольте мне.

- Да!

- Да!

Молодец!

Какой удар!

Элоиза, хватит жульничать.

Давай, брат.

Бей уже.

Какая неудача.

Заботы не дают тебе

сосредоточиться на игре?

Ни за что.

Мисс Эдвина, думаю, вы следующая.

Я не хотел мешать вам,

поэтому оставил проход для вашего мяча.

Вы очень любезны, милорд.

- Почти попали.

- Вы молодец, Эдвина.

Очень хорошо.

Давай, Бенедикт.

Мыслями ты точно не здесь.

Иначе ты бы никогда не предоставил мне

такую удобную позицию.

Да!

Моя главная забота…

Признаю, я думаю совсем не об игре.

Братья всегда всё слишком усложняют.

Я подал заявку на изучение живописи

в Школы королевской академии.

- Неужели? Поздравляю.

- Пока еще рано.

Я жду подтверждение зачисления.

Они берут немногих избранных.

Это прекрасная перспектива.

Не сравнить с твоим гранд-туром.

Но да, я тоже надеюсь отличиться.

Соберись, Элоиза. Так, давай.

Бей!

- Браво!

- Вот это да!

Гордый брат.

У вас прекрасные дочери, леди Мэри.

Вам есть чем гордиться.

Дети - величайшее благословение.

А возможно, и величайшее испытание.

Когда решают вступить в брак.

Да, сезон может быть беспощадным.

Вас долго не было в Англии, верно?

С тех пор, как я уехала

с покойным мужем.

Кажется, в прошлой жизни.

Я вас прекрасно понимаю.

Обри-холл хранит

много подобных воспоминаний.

Начали они довольно мирно,

но я не оставляю надежды

на кровопролитие.

Леди Данбери шутит.

В них силен дух соперничества,

но без членовредительства.

Осторожно.

Материнство очень идет герцогине.

Да, это так.

В прошлом сезоне мы показали себя

отличными свахами, леди Бриджертон.

О да. Возможно, мы сможем

повторить наш успех, леди Данбери.

Удар пришелся совсем не по курсу.

Если только они не собьются с курса.

Да!

Завидуй, брат!

Отличный удар!

- Молодец, Колин.

- Да!

Какая удача!

Это шанс обойти его.

Это не очень спортивно, нет?

Мне сказали, неспортивное поведение -

атрибут этой игры.

Вы очень быстро учитесь, мисс Шарма.

Что скажете, милорд?

Настроены на проигрыш?

Мой настрой не изменится,

независимо от вашего выбора.

Вот как? Вы храбро примете

всю тяжесть поражения?

- Играй достойно.

- Ничего, мисс Эдвина.

В сравнении с тактикой

моих братьев и сестер,

мисс Шарма ведет себя очень достойно.

Значит, вы не против этого.

Молодец!

- Она мне нравится.

- Мисс Эдвина.

Ваша очередь.

Вижу, я проиграла.

Мяч еще можно вернуть,

если хотите продолжить игру.

Думаю, я закончу.

Я…

Хотите, я к вам присоединюсь?

Не стоит ради меня лишать себя веселья.

Я немного отдохну

рядом с нашими матерями.

Я промазала.

Колин, твоя очередь.

Брат, вот это удар!

Да! Какая жалость.

Отправляйтесь за мячами.

Или вы оба решили выйти из игры?

Ни за что.

После вас.

Надеюсь, вы не обеспечите

победу моим братьям.

- Они только об этом и будут говорить.

- В отличие от вас, уверена.

Вот чёрт!

Мы можем их вытащить. Никто не узнает.

Я буду знать.

Значит, честь вам не чужда.

По крайней мере в спорте.

О да. И я уверен,

что вы тут же раструбите

о моём жульничестве.

Взаимно.

Ничего не поделаешь.

Ваша очередь, милорд.

Или вы боитесь запачкать сапоги?

Не волнуйтесь о моих сапогах.

Помогите.

Вытащите ногу.

Пытаюсь. Она увязла.

Вам помочь или нет?

Это не смешно.

Я этого не утверждала.

Я не могу…

Кажется,

я недооценил вас, мисс Шарма.

Это лейтмотив всего нашего знакомства,

не находите?

Раз уж мы отбросили формальности…

…скажите честно.

Как заслужить ваше одобрение?

Я не даю его

вовсе не назло вам, милорд.

Я лишь хочу обеспечить сестре

максимально возможное счастье.

Я думала, вы меня поймете,

ведь вы тоже заботитесь

о ваших сестрах.

Это другое. Я обязан…

Как и я обязана заботиться об Эдвине.

Во всех вопросах.

Давайте забудем наши распри.

Я докажу,

что защищу вашу сестру

и сделаю ее счастливой. Вы…

Вы согласны?

Даже ради перемирия,

я не приму поражение

на спортивном поле.

Ваша очередь, милорд.

Что-то случилось?

Я победила!

С ней будет весело за ужином.

Лорд Бриджертон, не желаете…

Игра окончена.

СВЕТЛОЙ ПАМЯТИ ВОСЬМОГО ВИКОНТА

ЭДМУНДА БРИДЖЕРТОНА,

УМЕРШЕГО В МАЕ 1803 ГОДА

ПАМЯТНИК УСТАНОВЛЕН

ЕГО ЛЮБЯЩЕЙ СЕМЬЕЙ

Это неправильно. Так нельзя.

Верните его сюда!

Милорд, нужно ваше присутствие.

- Мое?

- Это необходимо.

Всё хорошо. Пожалуйста.

Вы не должны стоять.

Нет, не хорошо.

Я через это семь раз прошла.

Я знаю, что хорошо.

Это совсем не хорошо. Так нельзя.

Я не позволю. Останови его.

Ребенок перевернут.

- Что это значит?

- Предлежание.

Я жду ваших распоряжений.

- Не понимаю…

- Я постараюсь.

Но, возможно, придется сделать выбор.

Кто для вас важнее?

- Что?

- Что вы ему говорите?

Я же запретила это делать!

Говорите со мной!

Решение должен принять глава семьи.

Глава семьи еще дитя!

Он мой ребенок. Я сама родила его

в этой самой комнате.

Этот вопрос его не касается.

Поговорим в холле.

Нет, Энтони. Не уходи.

Мама, пожалуйста. Ложись, успокойся.

Я выясню, чего он хочет,

и сразу вернусь.

Он хочет знать,

кто из нас должен выжить.

Я или ребенок.

Если убить ребенка, мать спасена.

Если пожертвовать матерью,

спасен ребенок.

Не тебе решать.

- Мне.

- Решать главе семейства.

И это Эдмунд!

Решать Эдмунду.

Только ему. Ведь он любил меня.

Он так меня любил.

Об этом даже речь бы не зашла.

При такой любви,

этот ответ, этот выбор…

Он очевиден.

Я никому не должна это объяснять!

Эдмунд должен быть здесь!

Слушайте ее.

- Милорд…

- Решение за ней.

Я сделаю всё, чтобы спасти их обоих.

Не покидай меня!

Постарайся привлечь веером

его взгляд к своей груди.

Верно.

Смейся над его шутками.

Мужчинам хочется казаться остроумными.

Добрый день.

Я…

Действительно, день выдался добрый.

Но жаркий.

Верно, Пруденс?

Да, очень жарко.

Не по сезону.

Мама, можно мне вернуться к модистке?

- За лентами.

- Не сейчас, Пенелопа.

Пруденс как раз спрашивала об Америке.

- Верно, Пруденс?

- Я…

Да.

- Интересуетесь путешествиями?

- Обожаю их.

В смысле, я мечтаю о путешествиях.

Дальше Сассекса не выезжала.

Мама говорит, Гэмпшир -

граница цивилизации.

Шутница! Пруденс очень остроумна!

Что ж, Америка, несомненно,

за пределами Гэмпшира.

Я пригласил на ужин Кауперов.

Кауперов?

Это как-то связано с ожерельем,

преподнесенным вами мисс Каупер?

Мне нужен повод для приглашения?

Вы распорядитесь об ужине?

Может, оленина?

Не сработало.

Кузен Джек ни разу не глянул

на мою грудь.

Хватит так его называть.

Довольно.

Надеюсь, игра вас не слишком утомила.

Вовсе нет, милорд.

Мои братья и сестры

кого угодно вымотают.

Свежий деревенский воздух

поддерживает во мне силы.

Рад это слышать.

Это поможет вам,

если мы продолжим общение.

Вы планируете устроиться

с семьей здесь, в деревне, милорд?

Скорее всего, я буду вынужден

часто бывать в разъездах по делам.

Вполне возможно, что будут периоды,

когда я буду вдали от жены и детей.

Я намерена во всём поддерживать мужа,

чем бы он ни занимался.

Слушать вас, мисс Эдвина,

одно удовольствие.

Просто бальзам на душу.

Это такая редкость.

Поймите меня правильно, милорд.

Это не значит,

что у меня нет своего мнения.

Я усвоила,

что можно быть покладистой,

если у тебя есть душевные силы.

Мне повезло найти

их источник в любви к литературе.

А еще в учебе.

Вот почему я остаюсь

вполне довольной

в различных обстоятельствах.

Я черпаю удовлетворение

в различных занятиях и увлечениях.

Буду откровенен.

В этом году я читаю

лишь бухгалтерские книги.

А ведь они ужасно скучны.

Это то, что нужно. Вам некогда читать,

а мне нужен слушатель

для моих рассказов.

Я могу часами говорить о книгах.

Я вас слушаю.

Вы читали Галиба?

Никогда.

Отлично.

Он такой забавный.

- Полагаю, это хорошо.

- И умный.

Этого следовало ожидать.

Во время разговора

не было ни одной паузы.

Серьезно. Никакой неловкости.

Что?..

О чём вы говорили?

Начали с его семьи.

Речь шла только о нём?

Сестренка, однобокий разговор…

Это не так!

Я думала, мой провал во время игры

заставил виконта

потерять интерес.

Но он спрашивал про меня,

про нашу семью.

Он слушал меня с интересом.

Про книги, что я прочла.

И даже те, что нет.

Что ж…

Я лишь надеюсь, что его намерения

были искренними, вот и всё.

Я уверена,

что из этого что-то получится.

Предложение, сестра.

Я чувствую это.

Значит, всё хорошо?

Отлично.

Мисс Эдвина упоминала пэлл-мэлл?

Похоже, ей было не очень весело.

А как иначе,

если вы все устроили настоящее побоище?

Разве можно играть иначе?

Я удивлен,

что она столько продержалась.

Неважно.

Ей не нужны победы в дурацкой игре,

чтобы завоевать меня.

Кто ты и где мой брат?

- Даф.

- Эта юная леди завоевала тебя?

Ты ее видела.

Видела ее семью. Она прелестна,

очаровательна,

интересна. Даже умна.

Что ты имеешь против нее?

Полагаю, ничего.

Раз ты уверен,

что она создана для тебя.

Если ты утверждаешь, что рядом с ней

ты не можешь

здраво мыслить, а то и дышать.

Если ты правда это чувствуешь.

Это?

Что?..

То, что не дает тебе

отвести от нее взгляд

ни на секунду.

Чувство,

когда тебе кажется,

что душу и тело охватывает огонь,

когда вы оказываетесь рядом.

Когда в ее присутствии

ты думаешь лишь о том,

чтобы сдержаться

и не коснуться губами ее губ.

Если именно это ты чувствуешь

рядом с мисс Эдвиной,

я очень за тебя рада.

Я не смог бы описать это лучше.

Мне стоит спрашивать?

Можете не отвечать.

Как приятно,

что вы приняли приглашение,

сделанное в последний момент.

Как иначе, леди Фэзерингтон.

Кто откажет человеку,

который у всех на слуху?

Разумеется.

Да, новый лорд Фэзерингтон

произвел в городе фурор.

Верно, Пруденс?

Лорд Фэзерингтон,

мне было бы интересно

послушать о ваших шахтах

в Америке, где были добыты

чудесные камни

для вашего подарка, милорд.

Зачем говорить о рубинах за океаном,

когда здесь есть столько прекрасного?

Скажите, мисс Каупер,

у вас есть братья?

Увы, я единственный ребенок.

Но у меня силен материнский инстинкт.

Простите.

Продолжай, дорогая.

Я и не думала хвастаться,

но мне всегда говорили,

что у меня очень добрый нрав.

Вы делаете честь своему полу.

Фэзерингтон, уверен,

такой оленины в Америке не сыщешь.

Нет ничего лучше английской кухни.

Вы должны отобедать у нас.

Моя кухарка славится своим трайфлом.

Та самая, что вы переманили у Эвансов?

Мне любопытно, милорд.

За все годы странствий

вы не надумали жениться?

Я хотел сначала упрочить свои позиции.

Но теперь, став лордом Фэзерингтоном,

мне пора задуматься о поиске супруги.

Той, кто знает истинного тебя

и облегчает повседневные заботы.

Новое платье, Крессида?

Правда, оно милое?

Новая модистка - настоящая находка.

Рядом с ее работой,

модели мадам Делакруа

выглядят довольно избитыми.

Не мешай.

- Я просто спросила.

- Пруденс, ты что-то сказала?

Да. Сказала.

Я подумала, может, после ужина

я исполню для гостей пару песен?

Боже правый.

Я упоминала,

что Крессида не только поет,

но и играет на фортепиано?

Боже, я так не могу. Филиппа…

Мисс Каупер, вы заняты в четверг?

Составите мне компанию для прогулки?

По Роттен-роу?

С удовольствием, милорд.

Я бы с радостью спела…

Довольно, Пруденс.

Если тебе нужен ясный ум, брат,

я знаю, как помочь.

Опытные путешественники используют это,

чтобы открыть разум

и преодолеть обычные тревоги.

Пахнет отвратительно.

Чтобы почувствовать эффект,

нужна самая малость.

В чём смысл?

Вряд ли чай отвлечет меня

от важнейшего решения,

которое сейчас принимают

в Королевской академии.

Возможно, он поможет

избавиться от одолевающих тебя мыслей.

Сомнения, вопросы, преследующие тебя,

куда бы ты от них ни бежал.

- Ты в порядке, брат?

- Сам увидишь.

Этот чай - настоящий эликсир.

Однажды на Паксосе

я часами медитировал,

глядя на травинку.

Что ты творишь.

Отвратительно.

Не расстраивайтесь из-за пэлл-мэлла.

Боюсь, вы должны быть

готовы к антагонизму.

Можно задать вопрос, мисс Элоиза?

Я нарочно сделала

третьи воротца уже, чем обычно? Да.

Спрашивайте.

Боюсь, я расстроила виконта

во время игры.

Рядом с могилой отца?

Значит, вы тут ни при чём.

Он избегает того места.

Можно мне вас тоже спросить?

Вы сами решили не вступать в брак?

Братья говорят, я слишком прямолинейна.

Все твердят, что лучше умереть,

чем остаться старой девой.

Но, мне кажется,

вы вполне довольны своим положением.

Всё не так идеально.

Незамужним женщинам

приходится нелегко.

В обществе для нас нет места,

лишь на периферии.

Тут проблема в обществе, не в женщинах.

Это так.

Мама.

Вот ты где.

Вот я где.

Хорошо выглядишь.

Я поспала.

Приняла ванну.

Я вышла на прогулку.

Повидалась с детьми.

Сходила в часовню. А теперь

пытаюсь вышивать, чтобы не быть обузой.

Поужинаешь с нами?

Знаю, это тяжело.

Тебе его не хватает.

- Прошу…

- Как и всем нам.

- Думаю…

- Энтони, хватит.

Пока это всё, на что я способна.

Каждый день я встаю,

одеваюсь, ем,

пытаюсь не забывать дышать.

Я заставляю себя зайти в детскую.

И я думаю о том,

как мне жаль малютку Джасинт,

ведь она никогда не услышит

смех Эдмунда.

Не увидит его улыбку,

не окажется в его объятиях.

Себя мне еще жальче,

ведь большую часть времени

я думаю лишь о том, что малышка

не оказала мне услугу, убив меня.

Так я могла бы быть рядом с мужем.

Эдмунд был воздухом, которым я дышала.

А теперь воздуха нет.

Так что

не проси меня о семейных ужинах.

Я очень стараюсь.

Энтони?

Энтони.

- Я могу уйти.

- Нет. Останься.

Прошу.

Сирень он любил больше всего.

Дорогой.

Мне больно видеть тебя таким.

Угнетенным.

Ухаживания, размышления о предложении,

выбор той, с кем ты хочешь

прожить до конца своих дней.

Мой дорогой мальчик, предполагается,

что это радостные хлопоты.

Я доволен.

Мама, я выполняю долг перед семьей.

Это важнее всего.

Твоя преданность семье

не является

препятствием любви, Энтони.

Твой отец серьезно относился

к своей роли виконта,

но он умел глубоко любить.

Я знаю, что ты тоже этого хочешь.

В глубине души

ты всегда этого хотел.

Ты уверена, что знаешь меня.

Я знаю, каким милым

и искренним ребенком ты был.

У тебя всегда находились

доброе слово и шутка.

Но после смерти отца

ты отгородился стеной,

будто любовь стала признаком

слабости,

а не твоей главной силой.

Это на тебя не похоже.

Ты заслуживаешь

того же чувства, что испытала я,

когда твой отец надел

мне на палец то кольцо.

Мы обещали друг другу

не только священный союз,

но и священную любовь.

- Любви не место в моём браке.

- Ты не прав.

Я ищу милую спутницу,

с которой будет приятно идти по жизни,

без потрясений, разбитых сердец и горя.

Ты была в полной прострации…

…когда он умер.

А я обречен

помнить все те мучительные моменты.

Я не могу

допустить, чтобы я причинил

кому-то такую боль.

И пусть меня считают

жестоким и бессердечным.

Эта комната прекрасно освещена.

Ты заметил, Колин?

Свечи мерцают так,

будто мы сидим меж звезд.

Что с тобой?

Я рассказывал Бенедикту о том,

какие яркие звезды в Греции.

- Вам здесь нравится, мисс Эдвина?

- О да, очень.

Городская суета будоражит,

но мне нравится деревенский покой.

Как и мне. Хотя…

Здесь не так уж спокойно,

когда вся семья в сборе.

Понимаю, милорд.

У вас семеро братьев и сестер.

Моей семье с этим не сравниться.

Но

в детстве мы с сестрой доставляли

немало хлопот.

Представляю.

Но Кейт всегда заботилась

о моих интересах.

Она несет ответственность

за нашу семью.

Это очень похоже на тебя, Энтони.

Большая ответственность за семью.

Это было откровение, особенно учитывая,

что я был единственным британцем

за несколько десятилетий.

Бенедикт, дорогой, ты пугаешь гостей.

- Ничего, леди Бриджертон.

- Возможно…

Предлагаю тост.

Хорошая идея. За наших гостей.

Или за другие актуальные дела.

Боюсь, мы с сестрой немного утомились.

Тост. Да.

Благодарю семейство Шарма за визит.

Я рад, что вы стали свидетелями

моего второго проигрыша

на ежегодной игре в пэлл-мэлл.

Он станет последним, уверяю вас.

И моя особая благодарность мисс Эдвине.

Для меня было честью

по-настоящему узнать вас за эти дни.

Вообще-то,

у меня есть вопрос,

который я хотел бы вам задать.

Я хотел бы…

Я прошу вас,

не рассказывать никому в Лондоне

о вчерашнем проигрыше.

Боюсь, моей репутации

будет нанесен слишком большой ущерб.

За приятные дни впереди.

- За приятные дни!

- Верно!

- За приятные дни.

- Точно!

Да.

- Пойми, ты ни в чём не виновата.

- Я где-то ошиблась.

Скоро приедут остальные гости.

Будь виконт готов,

он не стал бы тянуть с предложением.

- Я упустила свой шанс?

- Эдвина.

Нужно было больше о них разузнать.

Обо всём, что их интересует.

Я не справилась.

Я всё испортила.

Чувствую себя дурой.

Никогда так не говори.

Я знала, что он причинит тебе боль.

Иди сюда.

Ужасно видеть тебя такой.

Я думала, что нравлюсь ему.

Ты бриллиант этого сезона.

В Лондоне нет ни одного джентльмена,

который не желал бы твоей руки.

Сестренка, у тебя есть выбор.

Уверяю тебя, всё будет хорошо,

несмотря на эту историю с виконтом.

Не спится?

Прими ванну,

прежде чем показаться маме.

Он волшебный, брат.

Ты прав.

Я слишком долго мучился сомнениями.

Мою судьбу решать не Школам

Королевской академии. А публике!

Какой же ты идиот.

Бенедикт, тут кое-что для тебя.

Письмо из Лондона.

Меня приняли.

Я буду изучать живопись!

Меня взяли!

А как же «не им решать мою судьбу»?

Значит, он поверили в меня. Боже!

Вы все узрите мои таланты!

Тише! Ночь на дворе!

Он стал таким же невыносимым, как и ты.

Я?

Если услышу еще хоть слово

об удивительных странствиях…

Скажи, если там так хорошо,

зачем ты вернулся?

Ну…

Вы с ней общаетесь?

С мисс Томпсон?

Дамы ведут активную переписку, нет?

Я думала, ты забыл о мисс Томпсон…

О леди Крейн во время

своих путешествий.

Расстояние не властно

над памятью, верно?

Она живет неподалеку.

Для меня большая честь принять

оказанную мне честь.

И долго это еще продлится?

Если б я знал.

Художник должен иметь возможность

следовать за своей музой.

ЧАЙНАЯ ГЮНТЕРА

Но, похоже, общество пало жертвой

непостоянства моды.

Иначе как еще объяснить безвкусное,

не побоюсь сказать, вульгарное платье,

в котором появилась

мисс Крессида Каупер?

У новой модистки Мейфэр

есть одно единственное преимущество.

Молодость.

Чего не скажешь о мадам Делакруа.

Но та, по крайней мере, искусна.

Оставьте шелка там.

Мисс Пенелопа.

Вы должны заботиться о клиентах, верно?

Скрывать их секреты умелой драпировкой

или искусно пришитым украшением.

Я тоже прячусь.

За своим пером.

Я не собираюсь выдать вашу тайну.

Я здесь не за этим.

Я могу доверять вам, мадам Делакруа.

В мире мужчин

у вас процветающий бизнес.

Как и у меня.

Мы можем быть полезны друг другу.

Мне всё труднее справляться

с делами в одиночку.

Если я попалась на глаза вам,

дело времени, когда меня узнает

кто-то не столь тактичный.

Вы видели, что я могу

приносить пользу вашему бизнесу.

Так помогите мне с моим.

Намек на возраст обязателен?

Лесть не должна быть слишком очевидной.

Но ведь сработало.

Мадам Делакруа,

мне нужно мнение мастера.

Думаю, я была первой.

Конечно, не все могут

всегда всё делать правильно.

Хотя, полагаю, кому-то

уже слишком поздно менять курс

и исправлять ошибки.

Милорд.

Мисс Шарма.

Ваша сестра?..

Она у себя.

Похоже, сегодня ей нездоровится.

Я не хотел вчера ее расстроить,

не сделав предложение.

- Благодарю, что вы его не…

- Я всё исправлю. Я не передумал.

Вчера был неподходящий момент.

Братья обращали всё в шутку,

все на меня уставились, я…

Чувства не позволили мне объясниться.

Так значит, теперь у вас

сильные чувства?

- Мисс Шарма…

- Нет.

Вы, милорд,

играете чувствами

впечатлительной юной леди.

Мисс Эдвина способна

сама составить свое мнение.

Знай вы это…

По-вашему, вы знаете ее лучше меня?

Она хочет быть счастливой.

Именно этого я ей и желаю.

Уверяю вас, счастье -

не ваша сильная черта.

Раздражительность? Возможно.

Недовольство? Конечно.

Единственное чувство,

которое вы вызываете,

милорд, - это досада.

- Не двигайтесь. Замрите.

- Не командуйте!

- Нет! Не надо!

- Это всего лишь пчела.

- Вам больно?

- Что?

Вы можете дышать?

Это обычный укус. Конечно.

Вы уверены?

- Милорд?

- Нет. Не…

- Милорд?

- Не…

Я в порядке.

Это всего лишь пчела.

Просто пчела.

Перевод субтитров: Ксения Гребеникова

ДЕСЯТЬ ЛЕТ НАЗАД

МОДИСТКА

СВЕТЛОЙ ПАМЯТИ ВОСЬМОГО ВИКОНТА

ЭДМУНДА БРИДЖЕРТОНА

УМЕРШЕГО В МАЕ 1805 ГОДА

ЭТОТ ПАМЯТНИК ВОЗДВИГНУТ ЕГО ЛЮБЯЩЕЙ СЕМЬЁЙ

Любовь всегда...

ЧАЙНЫЙ МАГАЗИН ГЮНТЕРА

ПО МОТИВАМ РОМАНОВ ДЖУЛИИ КУИНН

[birds chirping]

[quietly] Easy now.

All right, take your time.

[foliage rustling]

He's bloody huge.

Yet no match for a bullet.

Now, all it takes

is one clean shot to the heart

to fell even the greatest of beasts.

[steady exhale]

[gunshot]

[bellowing]

-It's impossible.

-[crows cawing]

Now, now. There'll be

plenty of other opportunities.

I've failed each and every time.

I can just hear what Benedict

will have to say about this.

-Colin too.

-All the more reason to keep trying.

They'll be insufferable.

Shh. Shh, shh.

-[gunshot]

-[groans]

Whoo! You have to show me how to do that!

Come along. [chuckles]

It's more about confidence

than anything else.

You decided that stag

was too large to shoot

before you even touched

the trigger, I'm afraid.

But you'll learn. You'll learn in time.

[Anthony] You make it sound so easy.

Nothing ever rattles you, does it?

Oh, I believe your mother would have

quite a few things to say about that.

You do know that

you cannot show someone your best

without allowing them to see your worst.

Speaking of which, she would adore those.

[grunts softly]

[grunts]

[buzzing]

[sniffs] Ah.

-They're quite lovely, are they not?

-[buzzing]

Daphne will be jealous

if we return with nothing for her.

Ugh, this bloody…

Ah.

Father?

The damn thing stung me.

-Whatever--

-[grunts]

-[gasping]

-[Anthony] Father?

What is it?

Father!

[grunting]

Wha-- What?

-I can't-- [gasps]

-Help us, someone!

[tense music playing]

Someone, please! Help!

-[gasping]

-Father!

Help!

What happened?

I don't know! I don't know! I don't know!

Was it a bee? A bee, I think.

-Edmund.

-[gasping]

-[Violet] Edmund, you must breathe.

-[gasps] I can't--

[Violet breathing heavily]

No, no.

No, no, no, no, no, no, no.

Please don't. Do not leave me.

No, Ed-- Edmund!

[sobbing] Do not leave me!

[sobbing]

[inhales sharply, gasps]

Oh, God!

[Violet sniffles]

The other children. They cannot--

[sobbing] They cannot see him.

Anthony!

Go!

[continues sobbing]

[heartbeat thumping]

[Lady Whistledown]

We all know the great lengths

a young lady will go

in pursuit of a proposal.

And apparently,

she will travel great distances too.

Lord Anthony Bridgerton

appears to be inching ever so closer

to selecting his viscountess,

and to that end

has invited our diamond to join him

for an excursion

at his ancestral home, Aubrey Hall.

Perhaps I'll wear

the pink silks at dinner tonight.

Do you think Lord Bridgerton will like it?

Of course he will, Bon.

You need not worry

about the viscount's favor, Miss Edwina.

It is an exceedingly good sign

that he has invited us to spend a few days

with the family, before the rest

of the ton arrives for the real party.

[both chuckle softly]

Perhaps by then, you will have

an engagement to announce.

-[dog whimpers]

-He will be assessing me, I know.

Considering how

I might perform as viscountess.

[Kate] And he should not be the only one.

You too must consider if Lord Bridgerton

is everything you want in a match as well.

[Lady Danbury] Indeed.

We should all pass the week

with open minds.

I shall be the very picture of amiability.

Very well. Pink it is for dinner.

[Lady Whistledown] Country air indeed

clears the mind and invigorates the body.

Might this be the final gust

that pushes the viscount

over the precipice of a proposal?

Of course,

the luckless souls remaining in town

will have to find new diversions

in the absence

of their most precious of stones.

For goodness' sake, Penelope.

Stop your pacing

before you give me indigestion.

Apologies, Mama.

We have much to do before joining

the Bridgertons in a few days.

We will head to the modiste

after breakfast.

The modiste? Today?

Oh. Are you off to make calls

this morning, my lord?

Anyone in particular?

-I thought to pay a visit to White's.

-[Lady Featherington] Excellent idea.

I'm sure you'll find

the gentlemen there very good company.

Good day, ladies.

[sighs softly] I suppose I should be glad

that he's not already

out courting his future bride.

It's only a matter of time

before he brings home

some young beauty

to oust us out onto the streets.

Perhaps it will be Miss Uxbridge.

Now, there's a chickabiddy

if ever I saw one.

Varley. Not helping.

What we need to find is someone

malleable.

Someone stupid enough

not to know any better,

and certainly not to know how

to take on and manage a household.

That would be in our best interest.

The question is…

-where?

-Hmm.

[Prudence] I want to move

into Philippa's room.

Why she always got

the bigger one has never been fair.

What?

We were just saying what an eligible

match Lord Featherington would make.

-For whom?

-You.

But he's our cousin.

-Oh, Penelope.

-[Prudence] But he is our cousin.

And since when

has that ever created an issue?

It is not odd to marry one's cousin.

It is regal.

Just look at the royal family.

Besides,

he's your fourth cousin, nonetheless.

Do you not wish

to be lady of this household, Prudence?

Hosting dinners and balls,

the envy of all your friends?

-Would I have such authority?

-If that is what you wish.

You will charm him

with some assistance.

You will need a new dress or two,

to appear rather more tempting.

Tempting for what?

Never you mind.

[gasps] Off to the modiste, indeed!

[gasps] Sister!

Oh, I am so pleased you were able to come.

As if I would allow dear Augie

to miss out on watching his mother

win this little family tradition.

-Second year in a row, if I might add.

-Charming words from a duchess.

A duchess who is still a Bridgerton.

Oh, come and see the baby, Eloise.

-Why? Has he changed since I saw him last?

-[sighs]

He's grown at least an inch, haven't you?

-Who's that, then?

-[Violet chuckles]

Oh, my lovely.

-[gasps] Here we go.

-Yes.

There we are. [gasps]

There we go.

-[baby crying]

-[Violet exclaims]

Do not mind your Auntie Eloise.

She's too busy reading

to notice anything else, as usual.

[Eloise] Is it not nap time?

Perhaps Uncle Colin will lull you to sleep

with his many tales from his travels.

Yes. I seem to be missing the peace

and solitude of the Greek isles already.

[affectionate laughter]

[Daphne] Enjoying your brief respite

from the ferocious packs

of marriage-minded young ladies, Brother?

Quite the opposite, Sister.

I have invited one such young lady

and her family to join us today.

Anthony has invited

a young lady to Aubrey Hall?

Yes, and she is quite lovely.

My word!

Well, I cannot wait to meet

the woman who has captured your heart.

Tell me, what is she like?

Miss Edwina is the picture

of grace, beauty, and charm.

Hmm.

Unfortunately, she has a most

annoying sister who has styled herself

as something of a gatekeeper.

I'm afraid you must

all help me win over both sisters,

if I am to find my bride.

And now you appeal for help.

My, you must be smitten by this miss.

Or the sister is

a formidable obstacle, indeed.

[Daphne] Fear not, Anthony.

Seeing as though you were

such a help to me last season,

it would only be fair of me

to return the favor.

Is that a promise or a threat?

Hmm.

[horses snorting softly]

Now,

the only reason to endure such a journey

is to see my great-godson.

Hello.

Well, it is a joy

to see you as well, Lady Danbury.

Oh, Your Grace.

Lady Mary.

-So pleased to have you.

-Thank you for having us.

-This is my daughter Edwina, you remember.

-Lovely to see you. I do.

-And, of course, Kate, my eldest.

-[Violet chuckling]

Ah.

You're smiling.

[sighs]

I see my plan

to win you over is already working.

I was smiling at the view,

which you are now blocking.

[dog barks]

-Oh, you brought your dog.

-Yes.

Newton is an excellent judge of character.

-[barks]

-Oh.

-See.

-[exhales]

Mark my words, Miss Sharma.

By the end of your stay,

your opinion of me will be much improved.

As will his.

[growls softly]

I did not think you such an optimist.

Since your schemes

to manipulate me are now out in the open,

I suppose it would be

an improvement, indeed.

And you must be Miss Edwina.

[Anthony] No.

This is her sister.

Miss Kate Sharma.

Ah. Forgive me, Miss Sharma.

I'm entirely flattered, Your Grace.

Allow me to introduce

my sister, Miss Edwina.

-It is an honor, Your Grace.

-[chuckles softly]

Miss Edwina, I am pleased

to introduce you to Aubrey Hall.

[chuckles softly] It is a beautiful home.

Thank you so much for inviting us.

I very much look forward

to spending time with you and your family.

[Violet] Well, now, you must be weary

from your travels. Mrs. Wilson.

Please show our guests to their rooms

so they might get refreshed.

-And ready for battle.

-Mm, indeed.

-[chuckles]

-What can you mean?

[nervous chuckle] Do not mind Eloise.

She's always so spirited in the country.

Then we have that in common.

-Mother?

-[Violet] Mm?

I believe there is something

I shall be needing now.

[Violet] So you're quite set

on your decision, then, I take it?

[Anthony] I made my intentions clear.

[Violet] You must know there is no need

to hurry such a momentous occasion.

The Sharmas have barely

unpacked their things.

You should take the opportunity

to get to know one another.

Mm. Unnecessary.

Miss Edwina will make

the perfect viscountess, to be sure.

This house carries many memories,

good and bad.

I only hope you are acting

with a clear mind.

You have wanted me to marry for years.

And now you suggest I wait?

I did not say that.

I only want you to be certain.

[door opens]

[door closes]

[Nelson] My lord?

[Violet panting, sobbing]

My lord, might we begin

with the arrangements?

The minister will need to be called,

and the casket, of course.

One will need to be built.

Forgive me, my lord.

I have questions about the body.

Should I move it from his chambers?

[Nelson] Also the business of the letters.

-The letters?

-[Nelson] To give notice of the death.

Not just to the other family,

but to the village too.

We should send for the doctor.

She's still hysterical.

I also must ask, my lord.

Might you already have the keys to your

father's office? We've been searching.

[Mrs. Wilson]

With the baby, this cannot be good.

[Nelson] I'll have

your mother's things arranged,

but I'll need to know

which room you'd like her moved to.

Why would Mother be moved?

[Nelson] Because those rooms

belong to you, my lord.

You are the viscount now.

[Violet weeping]

[breathing shakily]

[Violet continues sobbing]

[Daphne] This will teach Colin.

Last time,

he put a wicket behind the goat barn.

[Kate] What exactly

are the rules of this game?

[Daphne] Pall-mall

is less about the rules,

more about the goal.

Which is, of course,

to hit your ball through each wicket.

The first player to send their ball

through the last wicket wins.

Simple enough.

Though, if you are feeling devilish,

you can use your turn

to knock an opponent's ball

as far away from their next wicket

as you would like.

Why waste a turn if the point is to get

one's own ball through the wicket?

To infuriate your opponent, I gather?

Precisely. It is a poor player

who plays the game,

and a wise one who plays their opponent.

I believe I shall rather enjoy this game.

[chuckling softly]

Right. Oh. Now, Benedict is a solid shot,

but he avoids conflict.

Colin is crafty.

He will strike when he thinks

you are least suspecting it,

so always be suspecting it.

Eloise concentrates entirely

on defeating her older brothers.

The hope is that she gets so absorbed

by them that she forgets about you.

I, of course, am a complete enigma

who will divulge none of my secrets.

And, well, then there is Anthony.

Let me guess.

A most ruthless, cutthroat player.

[chuckles] Why, you have

made his acquaintance.

[chuckles]

That is not to say he has no honor.

He's usually the most genteel sportsman.

Except as far as this field is concerned.

I'm sure the viscount

is an excellent player.

We will all pass

a very pleasant afternoon.

[bell tolling]

No, it should be lower in the bust.

We must make the most

of the young lady's figure.

Lower.

Madame, I must protest.

-I don't pay you to protest.

-The line of--

I pay you to fashion

the dresses as I see fit.

On second thought,

perhaps it is this fabric.

I hear there's

a new modiste across the street,

just arrived from Vienna.

Perhaps she'll have something

that will display your assets

to their better advantage, Prudence.

Let's get you dressed. [clears throat]

[sighs]

I quite liked your design.

Merci beaucoup, Miss Penelope.

I am always so clumsy

with my dresses, it seems.

Well, just the other day,

I ripped my bodice,

and I had to borrow a dress

from my maid to return home.

-I believe you might have seen me.

-I do not recall.

Are you often in that part of town?

Seems it is rather far

from the fashionable side, is it not?

Perhaps I might ask you the same thing.

But I will not

because I happen to believe

a lady's business is her own.

-Would you not agree?

-I--

Yes. I most certainly would.

-[door opens]

-[man] The silks you ordered, ma'am.

Oh. You may leave them at the back.

I only hope I may have use for them.

[Colin] Let's toss a coin.

Last year, we promised

to let the youngest pick first.

We pick based on alphabetical order.

-That's the precedent.

-It's meant to be a game, is it not?

[Daphne] Everyone, please, now.

The only fair thing to do

is to let our invited guests

choose their mallets and strike first.

Please, take your pick, Miss Edwina.

Hmm.

An excellent choice.

-The mallet of death.

-Would you look at that, Brother?

Is this yours?

Not at all. You're welcome to it.

You threatened to beat me

last time I touched--

-You exaggerate.

-[Kate] Are you the superstitious sort?

I know some men cannot perform

without their familiar tools.

Like a child with a blanket.

[scoffing and chuckling]

[Eloise clears throat]

[Anthony] I can play

perfectly well with any mallet.

I wish you the best of luck.

Are we to stand around

deliberating all day, or shall we play?

No! [groans]

-[chuckling]

-[Anthony sighs]

-[Daphne] To the field of combat!

-[Eloise] Mm-hmm.

[jaunty classical music plays]

[Colin] Come on.

-[Benedict] Ooh.

-[chuckling lightly]

[Eloise gasps]

[players whoop, exclaim]

[laughing]

-[grunts]

-[Benedict] Out of practice much, Brother?

Here, allow me.

[exhales heavily]

-Yes! [laughing]

-[players exclaiming]

[Daphne] What a shot! Good start.

-[Benedict] Eloise, stop cheating.

-No.

[chuckling]

[indistinct chatter]

[Eloise] Would you take your shot?

[Anthony groans]

[Eloise] Ha! Rather unfortunate.

-[all exclaiming]

-[applause]

Are the demands of the day

affecting your game, Brother?

Not a chance.

Miss Edwina, I believe you are next.

I did not wish

to leave my ball in your path,

so I've left an open space

so you can send yours.

How very kind of you, my lord.

-[players groan]

-[Lady Danbury] Just wide.

-[Mary] Very good, Edwina.

-[Anthony] Very good.

Come on, Benedict. [sighs deeply]

It was good.

You'll find it gets easier.

[women chuckling]

Huh.

Your head is clearly elsewhere, Brother.

Otherwise, you never

would have given me such an easy shot.

[Lady Danbury] Yes!

[Colin chuckles]

I will admit,

my thoughts are far from the field.

[indistinct chatter]

[chuckles] I have applied

to become a student of art

at the Royal Academy Schools.

-Have you? Congratulations.

-Well, do not celebrate yet.

I await word of my acceptance.

They only invite

a select few to study there, it seems.

But still, it is an exciting prospect.

Well, it's hardly a grand tour,

as you had with your travels.

But, yes,

I do hope to distinguish myself too.

Watch it, now, Eloise. Yes, then.

Send it.

Send it!

Brava!

[laughing]

[both sigh]

Oh, I must compliment you

on your daughters, Lady Mary.

They are a credit to you.

They are my greatest blessing indeed.

And perhaps our greatest challenge too.

[laughs]

During the marriage mart, at least.

[both laughing]

Yes, the season can be quite cutthroat.

It has been some time

since you have been

on English soil, has it not?

Not since I left with my late husband.

A lifetime ago, it seems.

I quite understand.

Aubrey Hall holds

many such memories for me as well.

Well, they are off to a slow start,

but I have hopes of bloodshed yet.

[chuckles]

Lady Danbury jests.

My children may be rivalrous,

but we have yet to lose any limbs.

Motherhood seems

to suit the duchess very well.

Yes, it does.

Our matchmaking efforts last season

were quite wise indeed, Lady Bridgerton.

Yes. Perhaps we will have

such success again, Lady Danbury.

Your follow-through

seems widely off-course.

If they can somehow stay the course.

[rousing classical music plays]

-Yes!

-[cheering]

Mark me, Brother!

[all exclaiming]

[Benedict] Cracking shot!

-Yes!

-[Colin laughs]

-[players] Oh!

-[Daphne] Oh, what luck!

You have the chance to best him.

That would not be

very sportsmanlike, would it?

I was told unsportsmanlike conduct

was a requirement for this game.

[chuckles] A fast learner

you are indeed, Miss Sharma.

[Benedict chuckles]

What do you say, my lord?

Are you in a losing mood?

My mood shall remain unchanged,

regardless of your choice.

Ah, is that so? You would bravely bear

the crushing shame of defeat?

-Play pleasant, Didi.

-Not to worry, Miss Edwina.

In light of my brothers'

and sisters' tactics,

Miss Sharma conducts herself

with much grace indeed.

Huh. [clicks tongue]

Then you shall not mind this.

-[chuckles]

-Well done!

[applause]

-I knew I liked her.

-Miss Edwina.

It's your turn.

Oh.

[Benedict groans]

I am bested, I see.

You could still retrieve your ball

if you wish to stay in the game.

[chuckles softly]

I think I shall cut out.

I sh…

I shall, uh… join you if you like?

There is no need

to spoil your fun on my account.

I shall enjoy

some refreshments with our mamas.

-[Daphne] Oh!

-[mallet cracks]

[Benedict] Ugh. I missed it.

[Eloise] Colin, it's your turn.

[sighs]

[Anthony] Oh, what a shot, Brother!

[chuckling]

Yes! What a shame.

You two better go fetch them.

Unless you would like

to quit, here and now?

[jaunty classical music plays]

Absolutely not.

After you.

[Anthony groans]

[Anthony grunts]

You best hope your play

does not hand victory to my brothers,

or we shall never hear the end of it.

While you would be

magnanimous in victory, I am sure.

[panting]

Oh.

Dash it!

-[insects buzzing]

-[birds chirping]

We could pluck them out.

No one would be any the wiser.

But I would know.

[sighs]

So, you do have honor, then.

At least as far as sport is concerned.

That, and the fact I suspect

you'd loudly advertise my cheating

the moment I stepped out of line.

And vice versa.

[mud squelches]

There's nothing for it, then.

[sighs]

Your play, my lord.

Unless you do not wish

to dirty those fine boots of yours?

Do not worry about my boots.

[whimsical music plays]

[boots sloshing]

Help.

Just pull.

I am trying. It is stuck.

[sighs]

-Ow!

-Do you want my help or not?

[chuckles]

-[grunts]

-[shrieks]

[Anthony groans]

It is not amusing.

I did not say it was.

[breathing heavily]

[both chuckling]

[both laughing]

I can't-- [clears throat]

[Kate sighs]

-[Anthony groans]

-[both chuckle]

I believe I…

underestimated you, Miss Sharma.

That seems to be the theme

of our acquaintance, does it not?

[Anthony grunts]

Well, since we are long past formalities…

tell me frankly. [grunts]

What must I do to win your approval?

I do not withhold it

out of spite, my lord.

I simply wish to steer my sister

to the greatest possible happiness.

I'd have thought

you could understand my position,

seeing as you too have sisters to protect.

It's different. It's my duty as their--

I am the same for Edwina,

in every way that matters.

Then let us put

our past acrimony behind us,

and allow me to prove

I can offer your sister

all the happiness and security you seek.

Could you…

Could you do me that favor?

Truce or not,

I shall never surrender to you

on the sporting field.

Ha!

Your turn, my lord.

Is something the matter?

-[Colin exclaims]

-[Daphne] I have won!

[laughter and applause]

[chuckles]

She will be amusing company at dinner.

Lord Bridgerton,

do you not wish to retrieve--

The game is over.

[somber classical music plays]

-[thunder crashing]

-[Violet shrieking]

[Violet sobbing]

[moaning in pain]

[young Daphne singing indistinctly]

[Violet] You cannot do this.

You get him back in here now!

My lord. You must come in.

Me?

It is imperative.

-Ah.

-[Violet moaning]

[Violet screaming]

[Doctor Lewis] All is well. Please.

You must not be standing.

All is not well.

I have done this seven times.

I know what well is,

and this is not well. He cannot do this.

[panting]

I will not allow it. You stop him.

The baby is not in position.

-What does that mean?

-It's turned the wrong way.

I need to know what you'd like us to do.

-I don't know what you--

-I'll do my best.

But there may need to be a choice made.

Who would your lordship prefer?

-What?

-[Violet] What are you saying to him?

I told you, you may not speak to him.

Speak to me!

[shouts]

It is a conversation for his lordship.

[Violet] His lordship is a child!

He's my child. He was born

in this very room, from this very body.

It is no matter to him.

Let us speak in the hall.

[Violet] No, Anthony.

Do not leave this room.

Mother, please. Lie down, still your mind.

I will find out what he is asking of me

and return immediately.

He is asking of you to decide

which one of us should live.

Me or the baby.

You kill the baby. You save the mother.

You cut the mother. You save the child.

It is not your choice to make.

-It is mine.

-It is his lordship's choice.

Edmund is his lordship!

[sobbing]

The choice is Edmund's.

It could only be Edmund's

because he loved me.

He loved me so much.

This wouldn't even be a conversation.

Because that kind of love,

the answer, this choice,

is obvious.

[groans, sniffles]

I should not have

to explain this to anyone!

[sobbing] Edmund should be here!

[wails]

Do what she wants.

-Your lordship--

-Whatever she chooses.

I will do my best to save them both.

[Violet wails loudly]

[Violet crying faintly] Do not leave me!

Flutter it so,

to draw his eyes to your bosom.

There.

And remember to laugh at his jokes.

Every man wishes

to be thought a sharp wit.

[door opens]

Good afternoon.

It is a good day, indeed.

It's hot, though.

Is it not, Prudence?

Yes, it's very hot.

Unseasonably so.

[clears throat]

Mama, might I return to the modiste?

-I need new ribbons.

-Not now, Penelope.

Uh… [clears throat]

Prudence was just asking

about the Americas.

-Were you not, Prudence?

-I--

Yes.

You have an interest in travel?

Adore it.

[hesitates] I mean to say,

I would adore it.

I-- I have not been further than Sussex.

Mama says everywhere beyond Hampshire

is positively uncivilized.

[Lady Featherington chuckles softly]

How she jests.

Dear Pru is… such a wit. [chuckles]

Well, the Americas

are certainly further than Hampshire.

[cackles loudly]

Oh, I have invited

the Cowpers to dinner this evening.

The Cowpers?

Uh, could this have anything to do

with the necklace

you gifted Miss Cowper, I believe it was?

[Jack] Do I need a reason

to enjoy their company?

You'll make the arrangements?

Venison, perhaps?

[sighs] It did not work.

Cousin Jack did not glance

once at my bosom.

Stop calling him that.

And stop that too.

I do hope the afternoon

was not too taxing for you.

Not at all, my lord.

My brothers and sisters,

they can be wearying.

Oh. I find it is impossible for me

to grow weary in the fresh country air.

That is a happy outlook.

You shall need it if you are to spend

much more time with the Bridgertons.

[exhales]

Do you imagine you should like

to raise your family out here

in the country, my lord?

It is likely my responsibilities

will keep me moving around quite often.

It is entirely possible

that there will be stretches of time

where I'll be apart

from my children. My wife too.

[chuckles softly]

I do look forward to supporting my husband

in whatever his endeavors may be.

[Anthony] You do express yourself

so agreeably, Miss Edwina.

It is refreshing and rare indeed.

Though, to be clear, my lord,

that is not to say

I do not have a mind of my own.

I have found that

one may easily remain agreeable

when one also has inner resources.

I myself am fortunate

to have found a love of literature,

but also of learning as well.

It is why I am

quite content in different circumstances.

Fulfilled even,

in all my varied interests

and employments, you see.

I must admit to you.

The only books I have read this year

are ledgers of the estate's accounts.

[quietly] And, um,

they're all dreadfully boring.

[chuckles lightly]

[all chuckling softly]

It is perfect, then.

You are much too busy to read,

and I am very much in need

of someone to tell about my stories.

[Anthony chuckles lightly]

[Edwina] I so enjoy talking of books.

Go on, then.

Have you read Ghalib?

-Never.

-[chuckles]

Good.

[both chuckle]

-[chuckling]

-[indistinct chatter]

He is quite funny.

[Kate] Hmm.

-A good thing, I suppose.

-Intelligent too.

I would have not expected otherwise.

And the conversation,

there were no awkward pauses.

Really. No truly disastrous lulls.

What…

What did you talk about?

[Edwina] His family, to begin with.

[Kate] So it was all about him, then?

Bon, if the conversation felt one-sided--

Only it did not.

[sighs] I was convinced

my poor showing on the pall-mall field

left the viscount feeling… indifferent.

But he asked me questions

about myself, about our family.

He was interested

in everything I had to say, Didi.

In the books I have read,

even in the books I have not.

Well, uh,

I-- I only hope his intentions

were genuine and nothing less.

I truly believe

something will come of this.

[chuckles]

A proposal, Didi.

I can feel it.

So, it is all going well, then?

Extremely.

And did Miss Edwina mention pall-mall?

She did not appear to be having much fun.

Well, how could she have done,

when the lot of you

were downright gladiatorial out there?

[Daphne] As if the game

can be played any other way.

I was surprised she played

for as long as she did.

It is no matter.

Miss Edwina did not need to win

a silly game in order to win my heart.

Who are you,

and what have you done with my brother?

-Daph.

-Has this young lady truly won your heart?

[Anthony] You met her.

You met her family. She is delightful,

and pleasant,

and interesting.

Even wise.

What exactly are your objections?

Well, I s-- I suppose I do not have any.

If you say Miss Edwina is the one for you.

If you say she is the one

in whose presence

you cannot properly think,

or even… or even breathe.

If you say you feel that feeling.

Feeling?

What--

Uh…

The one that makes it impossible

for you to look away from them

at any given moment.

When your

body and soul

feel as if they could burst into flames

whenever the two of you are near.

When all you are able to do

in their presence

is to fight the urge to lean forward

and… and touch their lips with yours.

If that is the feeling you have

when you are with Miss Edwina,

I am quite happy for you indeed.

I could not have

described it better myself.

Huh.

[whimsical music plays]

Do I really wish to know?

Do not answer that.

How agreeable that you could all join us

this evening, and on such little notice.

Of course, Lady Featherington.

How dare we decline an invitation

from the man of the hour?

Apparently. [chuckles]

Yes, the new Lord Featherington

has certainly made a splash in town.

Has he not, Prudence?

[Prudence clears throat]

Lord Featherington,

I'm quite interested to hear more

about your gemstone mines

back in the Americas.

They certainly do make for the most

exquisite of necklaces, my lord.

Why talk of rubies across the ocean

when there is so much

to discover just here?

Tell me, Miss Cowper,

do you have brothers, perchance?

Alas, I am an only child.

But I consider myself

particularly maternal.

[Lady Featherington coughs]

[chuckling] Pardon me.

You were saying, dearest?

Well, I would never dream of bragging…

[chuckles] …but I have always been told

I have a warm, affectionate disposition.

You are a credit to your sex, indeed.

[Lord Cowper] I say, Featherington,

I bet you could never find

a venison like this in the Americas.

[chuckles] There is certainly nothing

like English cooking.

Then you must be our guest.

My cook is renowned for her trifle.

Is that the cook you stole

from the Evans household?

[clears throat]

[Lady Cowper] I am curious, my lord.

All those years traveling,

you have not been tempted to marry?

I wished to establish myself

in the world first.

Uh, but now, as Lord Featherington,

there comes a time in everyone's life

when one needs a partner.

Someone who sees you as you truly are

to help ease the burdens

of the day. [chuckles]

[Lady Featherington] Hmm.

Is that a new dress, Cressida?

[Lady Cowper] Is it not lovely?

That new modiste is most accomplished.

Madame Delacroix's designs seem

rather tired by comparison. [chuckles]

Could you stop your interruptions?

-I was merely asking.

-Prudence, did you say something?

[coughs]

I did, in fact.

I was wondering if, perhaps after dinner,

I might display

my singing voice for everyone?

Oh, dear Lord.

Have I mentioned my Cressida

is accomplished

in both song and the pianoforte?

[chuckles]

Oh my. I could never do that. Philippa--

Miss Cowper, are you occupied on Thursday?

Might I ask you for the honor

of your company for a promenade?

-Rotten Row, perhaps?

-[chuckles]

I would be simply delighted, my lord.

I really would be happy to sing--

-Enough, Prudence.

-[utensils clatter]

[Colin] If it is a clear mind you seek,

Brother, I may know how to help.

Worldly travelers use it

as a way to open their minds

and transcend ordinary anxieties.

[sniffs, swallows]

Smells rather foul, does it not?

It only takes the smallest

of doses to feel the effects.

Whatever is the point?

I hardly think a tea will distract me

from the momentous decision

the proctors at the Royal Schools

are making at this very moment.

[Colin] Or perhaps it will allow you

to escape the thoughts

that've been plaguing your mind.

The doubts,

the questions that seem to linger,

no matter how far you go to escape them.

-Are you quite well, Brother?

-You will see.

This tea is quite the elixir.

On one occasion, in Paxos,

I found myself meditating for hours

upon a single blade of grass. [chuckles]

[Colin] Uh…

[chuckles] Hell and the devil.

[groans] That's bad.

[Colin chuckles]

Oh.

[chuckles softly]

Hi.

You must not let

the game of pall-mall dismay you.

Antagonism is, I'm afraid,

what you must expect.

[chuckles softly]

Can I ask you something, Miss Eloise?

Did I purposely make the third wicket

two inches narrower than last year? Yes.

[chuckles softly]

Anything.

I fear I may have upset

the viscount during our game.

Ah.

You were near our father's grave?

Well, then his mood

was not on your account.

He rarely goes near if he can help it.

Can I ask you something?

Was it your choice you never married?

My brothers tell me

I have a habit of being rather direct.

But everyone tells me it is fate

worse than death to end up a spinster.

But you seem

perfectly content with your situation.

[chuckles]

You must know, it is hardly ideal.

The world is not exactly welcoming

to an unmarried woman.

There seems to be

no place in society for us,

except at the edge of things.

That rather seems

to be society's flaw, not a woman's.

[chuckles]

Indeed, it does.

Mother.

There you are.

Here I am.

You look well.

I slept.

I bathed.

I went for a walk outdoors.

I saw the children.

I went to chapel. Now I'm making myself

useful with embroidery.

Perhaps join us for family dinner?

I know this is hard.

I know you miss him.

-[Violet] Please…

-But we all miss him.

-And I think--

-Anthony, this is it.

This is my best. I am doing my best.

[crying] Every day, I get up,

I get dressed, I feed myself,

I try to breathe in and out.

I force myself to stop by the nursery.

And I think about how

sorry I feel for little baby Hyacinth

because she will

never know Edmund's laugh.

Or the way he smelled,

or what it is to be hugged in his arms.

I feel even sorrier for myself

because, most of the time,

all I am thinking is that this little baby

did not do me the kindness of killing me

so that I could be with my husband.

Edmund was the air that I breathed.

And now there is no air.

So,

do not ask me about family dinner.

I am doing my best.

[Violet, distant] Anthony?

Anthony.

-I can take my leave.

-No. Stay.

Please.

Lilacs were his favorite.

Dearest.

I hate to see you like this.

So weighed down.

Courtship,

the consideration of a proposal,

choosing the person you wish

to spend the rest of your life with.

My darling boy,

it should be a time full of joy.

-I am content.

-Mm.

I'm fulfilling my duty

to this family, Mother.

That is what

takes precedence above all else.

Just because

you are dedicated to this family

does not mean that there should be

no room left for love, Anthony.

Your father took his role

as viscount seriously,

but he also loved deeply.

I know that is what you want too.

I know that, deep down,

it is what you have always wanted.

You're quite certain how well you know me.

I know how sweet

and earnest you were as a boy.

Always with a kind word and a joke.

But then, after your father died,

a wall went up inside you,

as if love had become some…

some weakness

instead of your greatest strength.

And that is not you.

You deserve the feeling that I had

the moment your father

placed that ring on my finger.

It was a promise,

not just of the sacred commitment

that we were making

to one another, but a sacred love.

-Love shall have no place in my marriage.

-You cannot mean that.

I seek an amiable partner

with whom I may share a pleasant life,

untouched by heartbreak

and the ravages of grief.

You were barely even there…

after he died.

And yet, I, myself,

am cursed to remember every waking moment.

I could never…

I could never be the cause of such pain,

no matter how cruel and hard-hearted

everyone else may find me to be.

[indistinct chatter, laughter]

[Benedict] This room

is exceptionally well-lit.

Have you noticed, Col?

The twinkle of the candles, it is as--

-It's as if… we sit among the stars.

-What is wrong with you?

I was just telling Benedict

how brilliant the stars were in Greece.

[Daphne] Are you enjoying

your time here, Miss Edwina?

I am, very much.

The buzz of the city is thrilling indeed,

but I quite enjoy

the peace of the country.

As do I. Though I dare say.

It is not quite so peaceful

with my entire family in residence.

[Edwina chuckling]

I understand, my lord.

Certainly, I cannot compare my family

with your seven brothers and sisters,

but,

my sister and I were known

to be a handful growing up too.

Mm. I can imagine.

[Edwina] But Kate always

has had my best interests at heart.

She bears

a heavy responsibility for our family.

That sounds remarkably

similar to you, Anthony.

Much familial

responsibility to bear, indeed.

-[Benedict sighs]

-[Colin] It was a revelation.

Made all the better by the knowledge

that I may have been the only Briton

to see it in decades.

[Benedict moans] Mmm. Mmm!

[Kate gasps]

Benedict, dear, you alarm our guests.

-It's all right, Lady Bridgerton.

-[Lady Danbury] Perhaps…

[Benedict chuckling]

…it is time for a toast.

A good idea. To cheer our guests.

-[sighs]

-Or to tend to other pressing matters.

My-- I believe my sister

and I have grown rather weary.

A toast. Yes.

[clears throat]

My sincere gratitude

to the Sharmas for joining us.

It has been splendid having you here

to witness what is now

my second annual loss at pall-mall.

-[light laughter]

-Not to be repeated, I assure you.

And my special gratitude to Miss Edwina.

It has certainly been a privilege

to truly make your acquaintance

these past days.

In fact,

I believe there is a question

I would like to ask you.

I should like to, uh…

I should like to ask you to please

refrain from telling anyone

back in London about yesterday's loss.

I fear the harm to my reputation

would simply be too great.

-[awkward chuckling]

-Um…

To the pleasant days ahead.

-Uh, pleasant days.

-Hear! Hear!

-[Colin] Days ahead.

-[Benedict] Hear! Hear!

Yes.

[Colin] Mm.

[exhales deeply]

-You must know you did nothing wrong.

-I must have done something.

The rest of the ton

are now set to join us in the country.

Surely, if the viscount were to propose,

he'd have done it by now. Yes?

-What if I have missed my chance?

-Edwina.

Perhaps I should've found out

more about the Bridgertons.

I should've known more

about their interests.

[loudly] I should've been better.

[breathing shakily]

[crying softly]

I have bungled this entire affair.

[inhales shakily]

And now I feel like a fool.

[sighs]

Never say such a thing, Bon.

I knew he would only end up

hurting you. Come here.

[breathes shakily, sniffles]

I hate seeing you like this.

[sobs softly]

I thought he liked me.

[Kate sighs]

You are the diamond of the season.

There is nary a gentleman back in London

who does not wish for your hand.

[chuckles, sniffles]

You have choices, Bon.

All will be well,

despite this disappointment

with the viscount, I assure you.

[knocking at door]

Are you still up?

Ugh. You may wish to bathe

before you see Mother in the morning.

It's magical, Brother.

You were right.

I've allowed my doubts

to plague me for too long.

The Royal Academy Schools are not

the arbiters of taste. The world is!

[scoffs] You are a fatwit.

Benedict, something

has apparently arrived for you.

A letter from London.

[muttering]

I have a place.

[chuckles] The Royal Schools

have accepted me as a student.

[sobs, shouts] I got in!

I thought they were not

the arbiters of taste?

They must see great promise

in my work. Oh my!

You shall all bear witness

to my talents!

Shh! It's the middle of the night!

-[laughing]

-[dog barking]

He will be as insufferable now as you.

Me?

If I must hear one more tale of your

extraordinary adventures from Greece…

Tell me, Brother, if you loved it there

so much, why did you ever return home?

Well…

Do you ever hear from her?

Miss Thompson?

Are you ladies not always writing letters?

[scoffs] I'd have thought

your travels banished Miss Thompson--

Lady Crane, rather,

from your mind completely.

Funny how distance

is no match for memory, is it not?

She lives not far from here, you know.

[Benedict] "I am honored to accept

your acceptance."

You think it will last much longer?

Well, devil if I know.

[Lady Whistledown] An artist

must be free to follow their muse.

But it appears the ton has fallen prey

to the fickleness of fashion.

For how else might one explain the tawdry,

dare I say vulgar, gown sported

lately by Miss Cressida Cowper?

Mayfair's newest modiste

has one thing,

and one thing only, going for her.

She is new.

Whereas Madame Delacroix might be old,

but at least she is capable.

[door opens]

You may leave the silks there.

Miss Penelope.

[Penelope] It is your job

to be observant, is it not?

To hide your clients' secrets

with a well-draped piece of fabric

or a cleverly embellished rosette,

just as I too hide.

Behind my pen.

I have no interest

in revealing your identity.

That is not why I'm here.

I believe I can trust you,

Madame Delacroix.

In a world of men,

you have built a thriving business,

much like myself.

I think we can be of use to one another.

My enterprise grows more difficult

for me to maintain on my own.

If I was spotted by you so easily,

it is only so long before I get recognized

by someone… less discreet.

[sighs]

I have proved to you

how I can help you in your business.

Now I'd like you to help me with mine.

Did you have to call me old?

I could not be

so obvious with my flattery.

But is it not working?

Madame Delacroix?

I require your expert knowledge.

I believe I was first.

[Lady Whistledown] Of course, not everyone

can always get things so right.

[growls]

[Lady Whistledown]

Though I suppose, for some,

it may be simply too late to change course

and undo any damage.

[exhales deeply]

Whoa.

[horse snorts]

My lord.

Miss Sharma.

Is your sister…

She is in her room.

Not feeling her best

this morning, it seems.

I did not mean

to disappoint her last night

when I did not declare myself.

And I'd like to thank you for not--

She shall not be disappointed for long.

Assure her, I still intend to propose.

Last night was a lark, at best.

My brothers were up to no good, and

with everyone sitting there,

staring back at me, well…

my feelings would not allow me to speak.

So your feelings

are too strong for you now?

-Miss Sharma--

-No. No.

All you are doing, my lord,

is toying with the emotions

of an impressionable young lady.

Miss Edwina seems perfectly capable

of forming her own impressions.

If you took notice--

So now you claim

to know my sister better than me?

I know she wishes to be happy.

This is precisely what I wish for her.

I can assure you,

happiness is not your strength.

Exasperation, perhaps.

Fixation, most definitely.

The only feeling you are, in fact,

capable of engendering,

my lord, is that of discontent.

-Do not move. Stand still, damn it!

-Do not tell me what to do!

[Anthony panting]

[buzzing]

-No! Do not! Leave it!

-It is only a bee. Ow!

[sighs]

-Are you hurt?

-What?

Can you breathe?

It is only a sting. Of course.

Are you certain?

-My lord?

-No, no. Do not--

[panting]

-My lord?

-Do not--

[panting]

I am unharmed.

[panting]

I am unharmed.

[breathing calms]

[whispering] It was just a bee.

[whispers] It was a bee.

[hearts beating steadily]

[horse neighs]

[indistinct chatter in distance]

[horse neighing]

[tense music plays]

[panting]

[panting]

[sighs]

Easy now.

All right, take your time.

He's bloody huge.

Yet no match for a bullet.

Now, all it takes

is one clean shot to the heart

to fell even the greatest of beasts.

-It's impossible.

Now, now. There'll be

plenty of other opportunities.

I've failed each and every time.

I can just hear what Benedict

will have to say about this.

-Colin too.

-All the more reason to keep trying.

They'll be insufferable.

Shh. Shh, shh.

Whoo! You have to show me how to do that!

Come along.

It's more about confidence

than anything else.

You decided that stag

was too large to shoot

before you even touched

the trigger, I'm afraid.

But you'll learn. You'll learn in time.

You make it sound so easy.

Nothing ever rattles you, does it?

Oh, I believe your mother would have

quite a few things to say about that.

You do know that

you cannot show someone your best

without allowing them to see your worst.

Speaking of which, she would adore those.

Ah.

-They're quite lovely, are they not?

Daphne will be jealous

if we return with nothing for her.

Ugh, this bloody…

Ah.

Father?

The damn thing stung me.

-Whatever--

-Father?

What is it?

Father!

Wha-- What?

-I can't--

-Help us, someone!

Someone, please! Help!

-Father!

Help!

What happened?

I don't know! I don't know! I don't know!

Was it a bee? A bee, I think.

-Edmund.

-Edmund, you must breathe.

-I can't--

No, no.

No, no, no, no, no, no, no.

Please don't. Do not leave me.

No, Ed-- Edmund!

Do not leave me!

Oh, God!

The other children. They cannot--

They cannot see him.

Anthony!

Go!

We all know the great lengths

a young lady will go

in pursuit of a proposal.

And apparently,

she will travel great distances too.

Lord Anthony Bridgerton

appears to be inching ever so closer

to selecting his viscountess,

and to that end

has invited our diamond to join him

for an excursion

at his ancestral home, Aubrey Hall.

Perhaps I'll wear

the pink silks at dinner tonight.

Do you think Lord Bridgerton will like it?

Of course he will, Bon.

You need not worry

about the viscount's favor, Miss Edwina.

It is an exceedingly good sign

that he has invited us to spend a few days

with the family, before the rest

of the ton arrives for the real party.

Perhaps by then, you will have

an engagement to announce.

-He will be assessing me, I know.

Considering how

I might perform as viscountess.

And he should not be the only one.

You too must consider if Lord Bridgerton

is everything you want in a match as well.

Indeed.

We should all pass the week

with open minds.

I shall be the very picture of amiability.

Very well. Pink it is for dinner.

Country air indeed

clears the mind and invigorates the body.

Might this be the final gust

that pushes the viscount

over the precipice of a proposal?

Of course,

the luckless souls remaining in town

will have to find new diversions

in the absence

of their most precious of stones.

For goodness' sake, Penelope.

Stop your pacing

before you give me indigestion.

Apologies, Mama.

We have much to do before joining

the Bridgertons in a few days.

We will head to the modiste

after breakfast.

The modiste? Today?

Oh. Are you off to make calls

this morning, my lord?

Anyone in particular?

-I thought to pay a visit to White's.

-Excellent idea.

I'm sure you'll find

the gentlemen there very good company.

Good day, ladies.

I suppose I should be glad

that he's not already

out courting his future bride.

It's only a matter of time

before he brings home

some young beauty

to oust us out onto the streets.

Perhaps it will be Miss Uxbridge.

Now, there's a chickabiddy

if ever I saw one.

Varley. Not helping.

What we need to find is someone

malleable.

Someone stupid enough

not to know any better,

and certainly not to know how

to take on and manage a household.

That would be in our best interest.

The question is…

-where?

-Hmm.

I want to move

into Philippa's room.

Why she always got

the bigger one has never been fair.

What?

We were just saying what an eligible

match Lord Featherington would make.

-For whom?

-You.

But he's our cousin.

-Oh, Penelope.

-But he is our cousin.

And since when

has that ever created an issue?

It is not odd to marry one's cousin.

It is regal.

Just look at the royal family.

Besides,

he's your fourth cousin, nonetheless.

Do you not wish

to be lady of this household, Prudence?

Hosting dinners and balls,

the envy of all your friends?

-Would I have such authority?

-If that is what you wish.

You will charm him

with some assistance.

You will need a new dress or two,

to appear rather more tempting.

Tempting for what?

Never you mind.

Off to the modiste, indeed!

Sister!

Oh, I am so pleased you were able to come.

As if I would allow dear Augie

to miss out on watching his mother

win this little family tradition.

-Second year in a row, if I might add.

-Charming words from a duchess.

A duchess who is still a Bridgerton.

Oh, come and see the baby, Eloise.

-Why? Has he changed since I saw him last?

He's grown at least an inch, haven't you?

-Who's that, then?

Oh, my lovely.

-Here we go.

-Yes.

There we are.

There we go.

Do not mind your Auntie Eloise.

She's too busy reading

to notice anything else, as usual.

Is it not nap time?

Perhaps Uncle Colin will lull you to sleep

with his many tales from his travels.

Yes. I seem to be missing the peace

and solitude of the Greek isles already.

Enjoying your brief respite

from the ferocious packs

of marriage-minded young ladies, Brother?

Quite the opposite, Sister.

I have invited one such young lady

and her family to join us today.

Anthony has invited

a young lady to Aubrey Hall?

Yes, and she is quite lovely.

My word!

Well, I cannot wait to meet

the woman who has captured your heart.

Tell me, what is she like?

Miss Edwina is the picture

of grace, beauty, and charm.

Hmm.

Unfortunately, she has a most

annoying sister who has styled herself

as something of a gatekeeper.

I'm afraid you must

all help me win over both sisters,

if I am to find my bride.

And now you appeal for help.

My, you must be smitten by this miss.

Or the sister is

a formidable obstacle, indeed.

Fear not, Anthony.

Seeing as though you were

such a help to me last season,

it would only be fair of me

to return the favor.

Is that a promise or a threat?

Hmm.

Now,

the only reason to endure such a journey

is to see my great-godson.

Hello.

Well, it is a joy

to see you as well, Lady Danbury.

Oh, Your Grace.

Lady Mary.

-So pleased to have you.

-Thank you for having us.

-This is my daughter Edwina, you remember.

-Lovely to see you. I do.

-And, of course, Kate, my eldest.

Ah.

You're smiling.

I see my plan

to win you over is already working.

I was smiling at the view,

which you are now blocking.

-Oh, you brought your dog.

-Yes.

Newton is an excellent judge of character.

-Oh.

-See.

Mark my words, Miss Sharma.

By the end of your stay,

your opinion of me will be much improved.

As will his.

I did not think you such an optimist.

Since your schemes

to manipulate me are now out in the open,

I suppose it would be

an improvement, indeed.

And you must be Miss Edwina.

No.

This is her sister.

Miss Kate Sharma.

Ah. Forgive me, Miss Sharma.

I'm entirely flattered, Your Grace.

Allow me to introduce

my sister, Miss Edwina.

-It is an honor, Your Grace.

Miss Edwina, I am pleased

to introduce you to Aubrey Hall.

It is a beautiful home.

Thank you so much for inviting us.

I very much look forward

to spending time with you and your family.

Well, now, you must be weary

from your travels. Mrs. Wilson.

Please show our guests to their rooms

so they might get refreshed.

-And ready for battle.

-Mm, indeed.

-What can you mean?

Do not mind Eloise.

She's always so spirited in the country.

Then we have that in common.

-Mother?

-Mm?

I believe there is something

I shall be needing now.

So you're quite set

on your decision, then, I take it?

I made my intentions clear.

You must know there is no need

to hurry such a momentous occasion.

The Sharmas have barely

unpacked their things.

You should take the opportunity

to get to know one another.

Mm. Unnecessary.

Miss Edwina will make

the perfect viscountess, to be sure.

This house carries many memories,

good and bad.

I only hope you are acting

with a clear mind.

You have wanted me to marry for years.

And now you suggest I wait?

I did not say that.

I only want you to be certain.

My lord?

My lord, might we begin

with the arrangements?

The minister will need to be called,

and the casket, of course.

One will need to be built.

Forgive me, my lord.

I have questions about the body.

Should I move it from his chambers?

Also the business of the letters.

-The letters?

-To give notice of the death.

Not just to the other family,

but to the village too.

We should send for the doctor.

She's still hysterical.

I also must ask, my lord.

Might you already have the keys to your

father's office? We've been searching.

With the baby, this cannot be good.

I'll have

your mother's things arranged,

but I'll need to know

which room you'd like her moved to.

Why would Mother be moved?

Because those rooms

belong to you, my lord.

You are the viscount now.

This will teach Colin.

Last time,

he put a wicket behind the goat barn.

What exactly

are the rules of this game?

Pall-mall

is less about the rules,

more about the goal.

Which is, of course,

to hit your ball through each wicket.

The first player to send their ball

through the last wicket wins.

Simple enough.

Though, if you are feeling devilish,

you can use your turn

to knock an opponent's ball

as far away from their next wicket

as you would like.

Why waste a turn if the point is to get

one's own ball through the wicket?

To infuriate your opponent, I gather?

Precisely. It is a poor player

who plays the game,

and a wise one who plays their opponent.

I believe I shall rather enjoy this game.

Right. Oh. Now, Benedict is a solid shot,

but he avoids conflict.

Colin is crafty.

He will strike when he thinks

you are least suspecting it,

so always be suspecting it.

Eloise concentrates entirely

on defeating her older brothers.

The hope is that she gets so absorbed

by them that she forgets about you.

I, of course, am a complete enigma

who will divulge none of my secrets.

And, well, then there is Anthony.

Let me guess.

A most ruthless, cutthroat player.

Why, you have

made his acquaintance.

That is not to say he has no honor.

He's usually the most genteel sportsman.

Except as far as this field is concerned.

I'm sure the viscount

is an excellent player.

We will all pass

a very pleasant afternoon.

No, it should be lower in the bust.

We must make the most

of the young lady's figure.

Lower.

Madame, I must protest.

-I don't pay you to protest.

-The line of--

I pay you to fashion

the dresses as I see fit.

On second thought,

perhaps it is this fabric.

I hear there's

a new modiste across the street,

just arrived from Vienna.

Perhaps she'll have something

that will display your assets

to their better advantage, Prudence.

Let's get you dressed.

I quite liked your design.

Merci beaucoup, Miss Penelope.

I am always so clumsy

with my dresses, it seems.

Well, just the other day,

I ripped my bodice,

and I had to borrow a dress

from my maid to return home.

-I believe you might have seen me.

-I do not recall.

Are you often in that part of town?

Seems it is rather far

from the fashionable side, is it not?

Perhaps I might ask you the same thing.

But I will not

because I happen to believe

a lady's business is her own.

-Would you not agree?

-I--

Yes. I most certainly would.

-The silks you ordered, ma'am.

Oh. You may leave them at the back.

I only hope I may have use for them.

Let's toss a coin.

Last year, we promised

to let the youngest pick first.

We pick based on alphabetical order.

-That's the precedent.

-It's meant to be a game, is it not?

Everyone, please, now.

The only fair thing to do

is to let our invited guests

choose their mallets and strike first.

Please, take your pick, Miss Edwina.

Hmm.

An excellent choice.

-The mallet of death.

-Would you look at that, Brother?

Is this yours?

Not at all. You're welcome to it.

You threatened to beat me

last time I touched--

-You exaggerate.

-Are you the superstitious sort?

I know some men cannot perform

without their familiar tools.

Like a child with a blanket.

I can play

perfectly well with any mallet.

I wish you the best of luck.

Are we to stand around

deliberating all day, or shall we play?

No!

-To the field of combat!

-Mm-hmm.

Come on.

-Ooh.

-Out of practice much, Brother?

Here, allow me.

-Yes!

What a shot! Good start.

-Eloise, stop cheating.

-No.

Would you take your shot?

Ha! Rather unfortunate.

Are the demands of the day

affecting your game, Brother?

Not a chance.

Miss Edwina, I believe you are next.

I did not wish

to leave my ball in your path,

so I've left an open space

so you can send yours.

How very kind of you, my lord.

-Just wide.

-Very good, Edwina.

-Very good.

Come on, Benedict.

It was good.

You'll find it gets easier.

Huh.

Your head is clearly elsewhere, Brother.

Otherwise, you never

would have given me such an easy shot.

Yes!

I will admit,

my thoughts are far from the field.

I have applied

to become a student of art

at the Royal Academy Schools.

-Have you? Congratulations.

-Well, do not celebrate yet.

I await word of my acceptance.

They only invite

a select few to study there, it seems.

But still, it is an exciting prospect.

Well, it's hardly a grand tour,

as you had with your travels.

But, yes,

I do hope to distinguish myself too.

Watch it, now, Eloise. Yes, then.

Send it.

Send it!

Brava!

Oh, I must compliment you

on your daughters, Lady Mary.

They are a credit to you.

They are my greatest blessing indeed.

And perhaps our greatest challenge too.

During the marriage mart, at least.

Yes, the season can be quite cutthroat.

It has been some time

since you have been

on English soil, has it not?

Not since I left with my late husband.

A lifetime ago, it seems.

I quite understand.

Aubrey Hall holds

many such memories for me as well.

Well, they are off to a slow start,

but I have hopes of bloodshed yet.

Lady Danbury jests.

My children may be rivalrous,

but we have yet to lose any limbs.

Motherhood seems

to suit the duchess very well.

Yes, it does.

Our matchmaking efforts last season

were quite wise indeed, Lady Bridgerton.

Yes. Perhaps we will have

such success again, Lady Danbury.

Your follow-through

seems widely off-course.

If they can somehow stay the course.

-Yes!

Mark me, Brother!

Cracking shot!

-Yes!

-Oh!

-Oh, what luck!

You have the chance to best him.

That would not be

very sportsmanlike, would it?

I was told unsportsmanlike conduct

was a requirement for this game.

A fast learner

you are indeed, Miss Sharma.

What do you say, my lord?

Are you in a losing mood?

My mood shall remain unchanged,

regardless of your choice.

Ah, is that so? You would bravely bear

the crushing shame of defeat?

-Play pleasant, Didi.

-Not to worry, Miss Edwina.

In light of my brothers'

and sisters' tactics,

Miss Sharma conducts herself

with much grace indeed.

Huh.

Then you shall not mind this.

-Well done!

-I knew I liked her.

-Miss Edwina.

It's your turn.

Oh.

I am bested, I see.

You could still retrieve your ball

if you wish to stay in the game.

I think I shall cut out.

I sh…

I shall, uh… join you if you like?

There is no need

to spoil your fun on my account.

I shall enjoy

some refreshments with our mamas.

-Oh!

Ugh. I missed it.

Colin, it's your turn.

Oh, what a shot, Brother!

Yes! What a shame.

You two better go fetch them.

Unless you would like

to quit, here and now?

Absolutely not.

After you.

You best hope your play

does not hand victory to my brothers,

or we shall never hear the end of it.

While you would be

magnanimous in victory, I am sure.

Oh.

Dash it!

We could pluck them out.

No one would be any the wiser.

But I would know.

So, you do have honor, then.

At least as far as sport is concerned.

That, and the fact I suspect

you'd loudly advertise my cheating

the moment I stepped out of line.

And vice versa.

There's nothing for it, then.

Your play, my lord.

Unless you do not wish

to dirty those fine boots of yours?

Do not worry about my boots.

Help.

Just pull.

I am trying. It is stuck.

-Ow!

-Do you want my help or not?

It is not amusing.

I did not say it was.

I can't--

I believe I…

underestimated you, Miss Sharma.

That seems to be the theme

of our acquaintance, does it not?

Well, since we are long past formalities…

tell me frankly.

What must I do to win your approval?

I do not withhold it

out of spite, my lord.

I simply wish to steer my sister

to the greatest possible happiness.

I'd have thought

you could understand my position,

seeing as you too have sisters to protect.

It's different. It's my duty as their--

I am the same for Edwina,

in every way that matters.

Then let us put

our past acrimony behind us,

and allow me to prove

I can offer your sister

all the happiness and security you seek.

Could you…

Could you do me that favor?

Truce or not,

I shall never surrender to you

on the sporting field.

Ha!

Your turn, my lord.

Is something the matter?

-I have won!

She will be amusing company at dinner.

Lord Bridgerton,

do you not wish to retrieve--

The game is over.

You cannot do this.

You get him back in here now!

My lord. You must come in.

Me?

It is imperative.

-Ah.

All is well. Please.

You must not be standing.

All is not well.

I have done this seven times.

I know what well is,

and this is not well. He cannot do this.

I will not allow it. You stop him.

The baby is not in position.

-What does that mean?

-It's turned the wrong way.

I need to know what you'd like us to do.

-I don't know what you--

-I'll do my best.

But there may need to be a choice made.

Who would your lordship prefer?

-What?

-What are you saying to him?

I told you, you may not speak to him.

Speak to me!

It is a conversation for his lordship.

His lordship is a child!

He's my child. He was born

in this very room, from this very body.

It is no matter to him.

Let us speak in the hall.

No, Anthony.

Do not leave this room.

Mother, please. Lie down, still your mind.

I will find out what he is asking of me

and return immediately.

He is asking of you to decide

which one of us should live.

Me or the baby.

You kill the baby. You save the mother.

You cut the mother. You save the child.

It is not your choice to make.

-It is mine.

-It is his lordship's choice.

Edmund is his lordship!

The choice is Edmund's.

It could only be Edmund's

because he loved me.

He loved me so much.

This wouldn't even be a conversation.

Because that kind of love,

the answer, this choice,

is obvious.

I should not have

to explain this to anyone!

Edmund should be here!

Do what she wants.

-Your lordship--

-Whatever she chooses.

I will do my best to save them both.

Do not leave me!

Flutter it so,

to draw his eyes to your bosom.

There.

And remember to laugh at his jokes.

Every man wishes

to be thought a sharp wit.

Good afternoon.

It is a good day, indeed.

It's hot, though.

Is it not, Prudence?

Yes, it's very hot.

Unseasonably so.

Mama, might I return to the modiste?

-I need new ribbons.

-Not now, Penelope.

Uh…

Prudence was just asking

about the Americas.

-Were you not, Prudence?

-I--

Yes.

You have an interest in travel?

Adore it.

I mean to say,

I would adore it.

I-- I have not been further than Sussex.

Mama says everywhere beyond Hampshire

is positively uncivilized.

How she jests.

Dear Pru is… such a wit.

Well, the Americas

are certainly further than Hampshire.

Oh, I have invited

the Cowpers to dinner this evening.

The Cowpers?

Uh, could this have anything to do

with the necklace

you gifted Miss Cowper, I believe it was?

Do I need a reason

to enjoy their company?

You'll make the arrangements?

Venison, perhaps?

It did not work.

Cousin Jack did not glance

once at my bosom.

Stop calling him that.

And stop that too.

I do hope the afternoon

was not too taxing for you.

Not at all, my lord.

My brothers and sisters,

they can be wearying.

Oh. I find it is impossible for me

to grow weary in the fresh country air.

That is a happy outlook.

You shall need it if you are to spend

much more time with the Bridgertons.

Do you imagine you should like

to raise your family out here

in the country, my lord?

It is likely my responsibilities

will keep me moving around quite often.

It is entirely possible

that there will be stretches of time

where I'll be apart

from my children. My wife too.

I do look forward to supporting my husband

in whatever his endeavors may be.

You do express yourself

so agreeably, Miss Edwina.

It is refreshing and rare indeed.

Though, to be clear, my lord,

that is not to say

I do not have a mind of my own.

I have found that

one may easily remain agreeable

when one also has inner resources.

I myself am fortunate

to have found a love of literature,

but also of learning as well.

It is why I am

quite content in different circumstances.

Fulfilled even,

in all my varied interests

and employments, you see.

I must admit to you.

The only books I have read this year

are ledgers of the estate's accounts.

And, um,

they're all dreadfully boring.

It is perfect, then.

You are much too busy to read,

and I am very much in need

of someone to tell about my stories.

I so enjoy talking of books.

Go on, then.

Have you read Ghalib?

-Never.

Good.

He is quite funny.

Hmm.

-A good thing, I suppose.

-Intelligent too.

I would have not expected otherwise.

And the conversation,

there were no awkward pauses.

Really. No truly disastrous lulls.

What…

What did you talk about?

His family, to begin with.

So it was all about him, then?

Bon, if the conversation felt one-sided--

Only it did not.

I was convinced

my poor showing on the pall-mall field

left the viscount feeling… indifferent.

But he asked me questions

about myself, about our family.

He was interested

in everything I had to say, Didi.

In the books I have read,

even in the books I have not.

Well, uh,

I-- I only hope his intentions

were genuine and nothing less.

I truly believe

something will come of this.

A proposal, Didi.

I can feel it.

So, it is all going well, then?

Extremely.

And did Miss Edwina mention pall-mall?

She did not appear to be having much fun.

Well, how could she have done,

when the lot of you

were downright gladiatorial out there?

As if the game

can be played any other way.

I was surprised she played

for as long as she did.

It is no matter.

Miss Edwina did not need to win

a silly game in order to win my heart.

Who are you,

and what have you done with my brother?

-Daph.

-Has this young lady truly won your heart?

You met her.

You met her family. She is delightful,

and pleasant,

and interesting.

Even wise.

What exactly are your objections?

Well, I s-- I suppose I do not have any.

If you say Miss Edwina is the one for you.

If you say she is the one

in whose presence

you cannot properly think,

or even… or even breathe.

If you say you feel that feeling.

Feeling?

What--

Uh…

The one that makes it impossible

for you to look away from them

at any given moment.

When your

body and soul

feel as if they could burst into flames

whenever the two of you are near.

When all you are able to do

in their presence

is to fight the urge to lean forward

and… and touch their lips with yours.

If that is the feeling you have

when you are with Miss Edwina,

I am quite happy for you indeed.

I could not have

described it better myself.

Huh.

Do I really wish to know?

Do not answer that.

How agreeable that you could all join us

this evening, and on such little notice.

Of course, Lady Featherington.

How dare we decline an invitation

from the man of the hour?

Apparently.

Yes, the new Lord Featherington

has certainly made a splash in town.

Has he not, Prudence?

Lord Featherington,

I'm quite interested to hear more

about your gemstone mines

back in the Americas.

They certainly do make for the most

exquisite of necklaces, my lord.

Why talk of rubies across the ocean

when there is so much

to discover just here?

Tell me, Miss Cowper,

do you have brothers, perchance?

Alas, I am an only child.

But I consider myself

particularly maternal.

Pardon me.

You were saying, dearest?

Well, I would never dream of bragging…

…but I have always been told

I have a warm, affectionate disposition.

You are a credit to your sex, indeed.

I say, Featherington,

I bet you could never find

a venison like this in the Americas.

There is certainly nothing

like English cooking.

Then you must be our guest.

My cook is renowned for her trifle.

Is that the cook you stole

from the Evans household?

I am curious, my lord.

All those years traveling,

you have not been tempted to marry?

I wished to establish myself

in the world first.

Uh, but now, as Lord Featherington,

there comes a time in everyone's life

when one needs a partner.

Someone who sees you as you truly are

to help ease the burdens

of the day.

Hmm.

Is that a new dress, Cressida?

Is it not lovely?

That new modiste is most accomplished.

Madame Delacroix's designs seem

rather tired by comparison.

Could you stop your interruptions?

-I was merely asking.

-Prudence, did you say something?

I did, in fact.

I was wondering if, perhaps after dinner,

I might display

my singing voice for everyone?

Oh, dear Lord.

Have I mentioned my Cressida

is accomplished

in both song and the pianoforte?

Oh my. I could never do that. Philippa--

Miss Cowper, are you occupied on Thursday?

Might I ask you for the honor

of your company for a promenade?

-Rotten Row, perhaps?

I would be simply delighted, my lord.

I really would be happy to sing--

-Enough, Prudence.

If it is a clear mind you seek,

Brother, I may know how to help.

Worldly travelers use it

as a way to open their minds

and transcend ordinary anxieties.

Smells rather foul, does it not?

It only takes the smallest

of doses to feel the effects.

Whatever is the point?

I hardly think a tea will distract me

from the momentous decision

the proctors at the Royal Schools

are making at this very moment.

Or perhaps it will allow you

to escape the thoughts

that've been plaguing your mind.

The doubts,

the questions that seem to linger,

no matter how far you go to escape them.

-Are you quite well, Brother?

-You will see.

This tea is quite the elixir.

On one occasion, in Paxos,

I found myself meditating for hours

upon a single blade of grass.

Uh…

Hell and the devil.

That's bad.

Oh.

Hi.

You must not let

the game of pall-mall dismay you.

Antagonism is, I'm afraid,

what you must expect.

Can I ask you something, Miss Eloise?

Did I purposely make the third wicket

two inches narrower than last year? Yes.

Anything.

I fear I may have upset

the viscount during our game.

Ah.

You were near our father's grave?

Well, then his mood

was not on your account.

He rarely goes near if he can help it.

Can I ask you something?

Was it your choice you never married?

My brothers tell me

I have a habit of being rather direct.

But everyone tells me it is fate

worse than death to end up a spinster.

But you seem

perfectly content with your situation.

You must know, it is hardly ideal.

The world is not exactly welcoming

to an unmarried woman.

There seems to be

no place in society for us,

except at the edge of things.

That rather seems

to be society's flaw, not a woman's.

Indeed, it does.

Mother.

There you are.

Here I am.

You look well.

I slept.

I bathed.

I went for a walk outdoors.

I saw the children.

I went to chapel. Now I'm making myself

useful with embroidery.

Perhaps join us for family dinner?

I know this is hard.

I know you miss him.

-Please…

-But we all miss him.

-And I think--

-Anthony, this is it.

This is my best. I am doing my best.

Every day, I get up,

I get dressed, I feed myself,

I try to breathe in and out.

I force myself to stop by the nursery.

And I think about how

sorry I feel for little baby Hyacinth

because she will

never know Edmund's laugh.

Or the way he smelled,

or what it is to be hugged in his arms.

I feel even sorrier for myself

because, most of the time,

all I am thinking is that this little baby

did not do me the kindness of killing me

so that I could be with my husband.

Edmund was the air that I breathed.

And now there is no air.

So,

do not ask me about family dinner.

I am doing my best.

Anthony?

Anthony.

-I can take my leave.

-No. Stay.

Please.

Lilacs were his favorite.

Dearest.

I hate to see you like this.

So weighed down.

Courtship,

the consideration of a proposal,

choosing the person you wish

to spend the rest of your life with.

My darling boy,

it should be a time full of joy.

-I am content.

-Mm.

I'm fulfilling my duty

to this family, Mother.

That is what

takes precedence above all else.

Just because

you are dedicated to this family

does not mean that there should be

no room left for love, Anthony.

Your father took his role

as viscount seriously,

but he also loved deeply.

I know that is what you want too.

I know that, deep down,

it is what you have always wanted.

You're quite certain how well you know me.

I know how sweet

and earnest you were as a boy.

Always with a kind word and a joke.

But then, after your father died,

a wall went up inside you,

as if love had become some…

some weakness

instead of your greatest strength.

And that is not you.

You deserve the feeling that I had

the moment your father

placed that ring on my finger.

It was a promise,

not just of the sacred commitment

that we were making

to one another, but a sacred love.

-Love shall have no place in my marriage.

-You cannot mean that.

I seek an amiable partner

with whom I may share a pleasant life,

untouched by heartbreak

and the ravages of grief.

You were barely even there…

after he died.

And yet, I, myself,

am cursed to remember every waking moment.

I could never…

I could never be the cause of such pain,

no matter how cruel and hard-hearted

everyone else may find me to be.

This room

is exceptionally well-lit.

Have you noticed, Col?

The twinkle of the candles, it is as--

-It's as if… we sit among the stars.

-What is wrong with you?

I was just telling Benedict

how brilliant the stars were in Greece.

Are you enjoying

your time here, Miss Edwina?

I am, very much.

The buzz of the city is thrilling indeed,

but I quite enjoy

the peace of the country.

As do I. Though I dare say.

It is not quite so peaceful

with my entire family in residence.

I understand, my lord.

Certainly, I cannot compare my family

with your seven brothers and sisters,

but,

my sister and I were known

to be a handful growing up too.

Mm. I can imagine.

But Kate always

has had my best interests at heart.

She bears

a heavy responsibility for our family.

That sounds remarkably

similar to you, Anthony.

Much familial

responsibility to bear, indeed.

-It was a revelation.

Made all the better by the knowledge

that I may have been the only Briton

to see it in decades.

Mmm. Mmm!

Benedict, dear, you alarm our guests.

-It's all right, Lady Bridgerton.

-Perhaps…

…it is time for a toast.

A good idea. To cheer our guests.

-Or to tend to other pressing matters.

My-- I believe my sister

and I have grown rather weary.

A toast. Yes.

My sincere gratitude

to the Sharmas for joining us.

It has been splendid having you here

to witness what is now

my second annual loss at pall-mall.

-Not to be repeated, I assure you.

And my special gratitude to Miss Edwina.

It has certainly been a privilege

to truly make your acquaintance

these past days.

In fact,

I believe there is a question

I would like to ask you.

I should like to, uh…

I should like to ask you to please

refrain from telling anyone

back in London about yesterday's loss.

I fear the harm to my reputation

would simply be too great.

-Um…

To the pleasant days ahead.

-Uh, pleasant days.

-Hear! Hear!

-Days ahead.

-Hear! Hear!

Yes.

Mm.

-You must know you did nothing wrong.

-I must have done something.

The rest of the ton

are now set to join us in the country.

Surely, if the viscount were to propose,

he'd have done it by now. Yes?

-What if I have missed my chance?

-Edwina.

Perhaps I should've found out

more about the Bridgertons.

I should've known more

about their interests.

I should've been better.

I have bungled this entire affair.

And now I feel like a fool.

Never say such a thing, Bon.

I knew he would only end up

hurting you. Come here.

I hate seeing you like this.

I thought he liked me.

You are the diamond of the season.

There is nary a gentleman back in London

who does not wish for your hand.

You have choices, Bon.

All will be well,

despite this disappointment

with the viscount, I assure you.

Are you still up?

Ugh. You may wish to bathe

before you see Mother in the morning.

It's magical, Brother.

You were right.

I've allowed my doubts

to plague me for too long.

The Royal Academy Schools are not

the arbiters of taste. The world is!

You are a fatwit.

Benedict, something

has apparently arrived for you.

A letter from London.

I have a place.

The Royal Schools

have accepted me as a student.

I got in!

I thought they were not

the arbiters of taste?

They must see great promise

in my work. Oh my!

You shall all bear witness

to my talents!

Shh! It's the middle of the night!

He will be as insufferable now as you.

Me?

If I must hear one more tale of your

extraordinary adventures from Greece…

Tell me, Brother, if you loved it there

so much, why did you ever return home?

Well…

Do you ever hear from her?

Miss Thompson?

Are you ladies not always writing letters?

I'd have thought

your travels banished Miss Thompson--

Lady Crane, rather,

from your mind completely.

Funny how distance

is no match for memory, is it not?

She lives not far from here, you know.

"I am honored to accept

your acceptance."

You think it will last much longer?

Well, devil if I know.

An artist

must be free to follow their muse.

But it appears the ton has fallen prey

to the fickleness of fashion.

For how else might one explain the tawdry,

dare I say vulgar, gown sported

lately by Miss Cressida Cowper?

Mayfair's newest modiste

has one thing,

and one thing only, going for her.

She is new.

Whereas Madame Delacroix might be old,

but at least she is capable.

You may leave the silks there.

Miss Penelope.

It is your job

to be observant, is it not?

To hide your clients' secrets

with a well-draped piece of fabric

or a cleverly embellished rosette,

just as I too hide.

Behind my pen.

I have no interest

in revealing your identity.

That is not why I'm here.

I believe I can trust you,

Madame Delacroix.

In a world of men,

you have built a thriving business,

much like myself.

I think we can be of use to one another.

My enterprise grows more difficult

for me to maintain on my own.

If I was spotted by you so easily,

it is only so long before I get recognized

by someone… less discreet.

I have proved to you

how I can help you in your business.

Now I'd like you to help me with mine.

Did you have to call me old?

I could not be

so obvious with my flattery.

But is it not working?

Madame Delacroix?

I require your expert knowledge.

I believe I was first.

Of course, not everyone

can always get things so right.

Though I suppose, for some,

it may be simply too late to change course

and undo any damage.

Whoa.

My lord.

Miss Sharma.

Is your sister…

She is in her room.

Not feeling her best

this morning, it seems.

I did not mean

to disappoint her last night

when I did not declare myself.

And I'd like to thank you for not--

She shall not be disappointed for long.

Assure her, I still intend to propose.

Last night was a lark, at best.

My brothers were up to no good, and

with everyone sitting there,

staring back at me, well…

my feelings would not allow me to speak.

So your feelings

are too strong for you now?

-Miss Sharma--

-No. No.

All you are doing, my lord,

is toying with the emotions

of an impressionable young lady.

Miss Edwina seems perfectly capable

of forming her own impressions.

If you took notice--

So now you claim

to know my sister better than me?

I know she wishes to be happy.

This is precisely what I wish for her.

I can assure you,

happiness is not your strength.

Exasperation, perhaps.

Fixation, most definitely.

The only feeling you are, in fact,

capable of engendering,

my lord, is that of discontent.

-Do not move. Stand still, damn it!

-Do not tell me what to do!

-No! Do not! Leave it!

-It is only a bee. Ow!

-Are you hurt?

-What?

Can you breathe?

It is only a sting. Of course.

Are you certain?

-My lord?

-No, no. Do not--

-My lord?

-Do not--

I am unharmed.

I am unharmed.

It was just a bee.

It was a bee.