Episode 1

♪ ♪ CHARLOTTE: As I am resolved not to marry, I will need an income.

♪ ♪ ALISON: A governess?

MARY: For Mr. Colbourne, of all people?

Have I captured you?

Utterly.

TOM: "The man seeking her fortune is Charles Lockhart."

MARY: There's something else you should know-- your mother is still alive.

CHARLOTTE: We let our emotions get the better of us.

Thank you for making your feelings so clear.

CHARLOTTE: May I introduce Mr. Ralph Starling.

Ralph and I are to be married.

♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ (horse snorting) ♪ ♪ CHARLOTTE: Look, Ralph.

Any moment now, you'll catch a glimpse of the sea.

♪ ♪ (chuckles) I do hope I shall make a good impression.

I should hate to let you down.

You have nothing to worry about.

♪ ♪ (seagulls cawing) ARTHUR: Many happy returns, Georgiana!

MARY: They were my mother's.

I hope you like them.

Thank you.

I shall wear them to my party on Saturday.

TOM: And of course, in line with your father's wishes, today you take possession of your inheritance.

♪ ♪ (chuckles) ♪ ♪ (shop bell ringing, horse nickers) Thank you.

I've never seen so many visitors.

Tom must be delighted.

GEORGIANA: Charlotte!

Oh!

I'm so happy you could come.

Happiest of birthdays, Georgiana!

And I am glad to see you, too, Mr. Starling.

It was kind of you to include me on the invitation, Miss Lambe.

How could I not?

You're about to marry my dearest friend.

♪ ♪ LADY DENHAM: I must say, Dr. Fuchs, this might be your finest innovation yet!

Danke schön, meine Dame!

Though I must emphasize this treatment is still at an experimental stage.

Oh, nevertheless!

The theory is, the more physical punishment he learns to endure... (sighs) ...the better his mind will resist temptation.

And pump!

(water churning) (gasps) (grunts) (chuckling) (water continues) No more!

No more.

(seagulls cawing) ♪ ♪ LYDIA: Look, Harry!

Is it not charming?

Perfectly quaint.

That is irrelevant!

We're not here to admire the view.

I can only pray that we left our reputation in Bath.

Oh, I packed mine in my trunk.

Was I not supposed to?

(sighs) (Tom stammers) (horse whinnies) Lady Montrose, Your Grace, Lady Lydia.

Mr. Tom Parker at your service.

It is my honor to welcome you to the country's most fashionable resort.

LADY MONTROSE: How kind, Mr. Parker.

We're looking forward to seeing what Sanditon has to offer.

Drive on!

DRIVER: Move on!

♪ ♪ HANKINS: I had heard of You by the hearing of the ear, but now my eye sees You.

And therefore, I despise myself, and repent in dust and ashes.

Very good, Sir Edward.

Temptation is everywhere you look.

You must resist with all your might if you are to earn forgiveness.

Not only from your dear aunt, but from God, the heavenly Father.

Are you willing to accept His Fatherly embrace?

I am.

(bird squawking) Dr. Fuchs.

Guten Abend.

Fräulein?

I had no idea you sprechen meine Sprache!

Ein bisschen, Herr Doktor.

(chuckles) If I didn't know otherwise, I would think you were a maiden of the Rhine.

Ah, gentlemen, I'm here to discuss Sir Edward's progress.

HANKINS: Well, I think it is safe to say he is making vast strides under my spiritual tutelage.

With respect, my treatment is surely the more proven cause of his rehabilitation.

With respect, a man's soul cannot be redeemed by science.

When it comes to sickness of the mind, I would sooner put my faith in medicine than prayer.

Then I suggest you read your Bible, sir, and make study of the miracles!

Come, sister.

We have heard quite enough ungodly fiddle-faddle!

♪ ♪ (bell tolling in distance) (laughing, applauding) (gasps) (cheering, laughing) (clapping) (Ralph gasps, others groan) Ralph!

I'm fine, I'm fine.

TOM: The first rule of snapdragon, Mr. Starling: hesitation is fatal.

Charlotte's always been a demon at it.

Clearly, I will have to practice.

So, as you've seen, my dear, Sanditon is now the place to be seen!

I can only think Brighton and London are quite empty.

And if we weren't already on the map, Georgiana's party would certainly announce our arrival.

ARTHUR: I am determined it shall be the grandest event this town has ever seen.

GEORGIANA: I want to mark my coming of age with style.

To announce myself to society.

MARY: I only hope you don't spend your entire inheritance in one evening.

(Arthur chuckles) We plan to build an indoor pleasure garden for our guests, Miss Heywood!

Heavens!

(Georgiana giggling) TOM: And what guests they are!

Not only Her Grace, the Lady Montrose, and her son, the Duke of Buckinghamshire, but we await the arrival of your friend Lady Susan de Clemente.

Oh, I shall be so pleased to see her again.

RALPH: Lady de Clemente?

TOM: Yes, they met at a masked ball in London.

Did you not, my dear?

When were you in London, Charlotte?

GEORGIANA: She and the late Mr. Parker journeyed there for my benefit.

It's a long story.

MARY: We needn't dwell on it.

TOM: Yes, so, uh, in short, uh, everyone of consequence will be at the party!

GEORGIANA: Not everyone.

Your former employer, Mr. Colbourne, will also not be attending.

I believe he remains in Bath.

From what Charlotte has told me, that is no great loss.

TOM: Quite right, Mr. Starling, quite right.

But rest assured, there will be no shortage of eligible gentlemen in attendance.

Now that you are to be married, Charlotte, we must hope that Georgiana follows your example.

I fear our wedding will seem very modest in comparison with this party.

I'm sure it will be lovely.

Yes, and what a perfect time of year to be married.

What is it Mr. Wordsworth said?

"Season's mists and mellow fruitfulness"?

(chuckling): Oh, I think that was Shelley.

Was it?

Hmm.

Mr. Starling, can you settle the matter?

I... couldn't tell you.

I fear poetry is rather lost on me.

Keats.

It was John Keats.

(Arthur laughing) Keats.

You do realize you're marrying a woman of great learning, Mr. Starling.

How could I forget?

♪ ♪ (gulls calling) ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ (door closes quietly) A pleasant evening?

Passably.

(chuckles) The, uh, the local people made me feel most welcome.

LADY MONTROSE: This will not do, Harry!

We came here to escape scandal, not create more of it!

Fear not, Mother.

I am the very soul of discretion.

Your only purpose here is to restore our wealth by finding a wife of means and producing a son and heir.

I knew there was something I had to do.

LADY MONTROSE: I will not be mocked!

Mother will not be mocked, Harry.

It is time you applied yourself to the task at hand.

Both of you.

Now, we have secured an invitation to Miss Lambe's coming of age party.

She is an heiress with £100,000, so you will find her, Harry, and you will charm her.

I bet you a guinea she's the size of a whale with a prominent goiter.

LADY MONTROSE: We do not have a guinea!

(stifles laugh) That is precisely why we are in this predicament!

And as for you, Lydia, it will be no small task, given you are almost 30...

I am seven and 20.

...but we will find you a husband.

A suitable one, this time.

Yes, Mother.

(sighs) There are no worse bedfellows in this sorry world than good breeding and destitution.

(gulls calling) CHARLOTTE: And what of your mother?

Are you really no closer to finding her?

I've engaged agents on both continents, but all in vain.

Their replies yield nothing.

(exhales): You mustn't lose faith.

I'm still struggling to understand why my father led me to believe she was dead.

Perhaps he was trying to protect you.

From what?

(sighs) (laughs) I see your admirers are as keen as ever.

Now that I have inherited, they are relentless.

My experience with Lockhart has strengthened my resolve to avoid marriage at all costs.

I cannot blame you.

There was a time, not so long ago, that you swore off marriage.

Yet here you are.

Marrying the same man you once came here to avoid.

Not everyone has your fortune.

I've known Ralph all my life, and for my father, this was a foregone conclusion.

But do you love him?

Ralph is a kind and caring man.

I'm very fond of him.

And besides... (sighs) I have loved in the past, and look where that's got me.

♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ (carriage approaching) (driver speaking indistinctly) ♪ ♪ Welcome back, ladies.

Sir.

DRIVER: Move on.

Thank you, Mrs. Wheatley.

We're glad to be home.

♪ ♪ (gulls calling, people talking in background) I do believe I spy her, my dear.

It is her.

That silhouette is unmistakable.

(Tom chuckles) TOM: Lady de Clemente.

We have eagerly awaited your return.

(Lady Susan chuckles) I am heartily glad to be back, Mr. Parker.

My dear, what a tonic it is to see your face again!

Oh, I could say the very same thing!

I am desperate to hear your news.

Did you know she is to be married, my lady?

I most certainly did not!

How could you keep this from me?

I am mortally offended.

You must tell me everything!

(chuckles) ♪ ♪ AUGUSTA: Now that we are returned, Uncle, I hope you will renounce your campaign in trying to find me a husband.

I would be remiss in my duty if I did.

LEONORA: Why does she have to get married if she doesn't want to?

To assure her security and position.

I'm afraid that's just how society works, Leo.

AUGUSTA: And so, I must be subjected to a steady procession of dull, shallow, foppish boys.

LEONORA: If marriage is so important, Father, why don't you find a wife?

Because your father is even more particular than I am.

At every ball we attended in Bath, he could have had his pick.

That was hardly the case.

But none were quite good enough for Mr. Alexander Colbourne.

I suspect you are holding out for some kind of unattainable ideal.

A woman of unsurpassable beauty who can ride a horse and quote poetry.

Find me such a woman, Augusta, and I may yet consider her.

I'm thrilled that you have found so much contentment.

Though I confess this is not the life I would have expected for you.

That you'd marry a farmer and return to your village.

Why not?

It's been good enough for my parents.

Why should it not be good enough for me?

Oh, come on!

Lady de Clemente!

Oh... Lady Montrose.

We met at the late lamented Princess Charlotte's wedding.

Mm.

How could I forget?

Uh, this is my daughter, Lady Lydia Montrose, and my son, Lord Montrose, the Duke of Buckinghamshire.

My friend Miss Heywood.

Mm!

It appears the entire haut monde is here at Sanditon.

I wonder if the newly crowned king might even pay a visit.

(chuckles): Who is to say?

(sighs) Although I have every reason to suspect he might.

LEONORA: Miss Heywood!

Oh!

I thought you were in Bath.

AUGUSTA: We were.

Uncle packed up Heyrick Park soon after you left.

Lady de Clemente, this is Mrs. Wheatley, Miss Markham, and Miss Colbourne.

How do you do, my lady?

LEONORA: Why did you leave so suddenly?

You never even said goodbye!

Oh, Leo, I so wanted to, but it was...

Difficult.

I, I regret the manner of my leaving.

LEONORA: But now you're back, will you be our governess again?

I'm sorry, Leo.

Why not?

MRS. WHEATLEY: Miss Colbourne!

I'm only here for Miss Lambe's party tomorrow, and then I'll be returning home.

But it's wonderful to see your faces again.

I miss you all.

Heyrick Park has felt your absence, too, Miss Heywood.

I, I must hasten home before Mr. Pryce arrives.

Who's Mr. Pryce, Tom?

You seem uncommonly agitated.

(guffaws) Mary, Rowleigh Pryce is a speculator of unparalleled renown who has expressed an interest in my plans for a hotel.

If I can secure his investment, it will be the coup of the century.

But by all accounts, he's not an easy man to impress.

Who can fail to be impressed by you, Tom?

Thank you, Mary.

That's just what I keep telling myself.

EDWARD: I've repaired the church roof, rung the bells for morning service, mucked out Moses, the Hankins' shire horse, and have found great purpose in my labors.

I must thank you, Aunt.

When I look back at the miserable wretch that I once was, I feel only the deepest shame.

But now, it's as if I'm reborn.

I only hope you can see evidence of that for yourself.

I remain unconvinced.

And yet both Dr. Fuchs and Mr. Hankins seem to think that you have made a modicum of progress.

I'm grateful to both of those gentlemen.

If I could, I would subject myself to their ministrations forever.

Well, I abide by the original terms of our arrangement.

Once I have observed consistent evidence that you are reformed, I will grant you a living.

My dearest Aunt, you are kindness itself.

But in the meantime, if I catch even the vaguest hint of anything immoral, or find you up to your old buckish ways, then you can consider our contract broken.

And for now, you can accompany me into town.

I shall need someone to carry my purchases.

Mr. Pryce?

Parker?

Indeed, sir.

Mr. Tom Parker, at your service.

You've kept me waiting damn near half an hour, man!

My humblest apologies, sir.

(bell rings) How was your journey?

Long, hot, cramped, and generally excruciating.

So, this better be worth it!

I assure you it will be, sir.

(chuckles nervously) It is... (knocks on door) ...my honor to welcome you to Sanditon, the finest resort in the whole of... Stop flannelling, man, and get to the point!

(door opens) Ah!

Finally!

♪ ♪ GEORGIANA: I cannot decide between the green and gold Chinese silk or the yellow taffeta.

Which do you think will provide the greater entrance?

I think your beauty needs little adornment.

Those of us who know you admire you for your finer qualities, not for your clothes, or for hosting an extravagant party.

You have no need to prove yourself to anyone.

Thank you.

Perhaps I can order both and decide on the night.

Good afternoon, Miss Lambe.

Why can't they understand I am not in the least bit interested?

(sighing): I live in hope you will meet someone who will change your mind.

♪ ♪ I do believe I spy your heiress.

LYDIA: Your use of the possessive seems a tad presumptuous.

It seems she is beautiful, as well as rich.

So, you have no excuse, Harry.

You must snaffle her, before you're beaten to it.

I live only to serve you, Mother.

♪ ♪ How long were you their governess?

A few short months.

I couldn't help but notice you made no mention of your wedding to them.

It didn't seem relevant.

RALPH: Charlotte!

CHARLOTTE: Mm, Ralph.

Uh, may I introduce Lady de Clemente.

Mr. Ralph Starling.

How do you do, my lady?

Many congratulations, Mr. Starling.

You have made an excellent choice of wife.

I have bought you a present.

It is Mr. Keats's new work.

Oh, you had no need to do that.

I wanted to.

I thought we might read it together.

♪ ♪ I fear I've failed you.

I've made enquiries all along the coast, and I cannot find any obliging dove fanciers.

Thank you, Arthur, but I can live without the birds.

Speaking of birds, a peacock approaches.

Miss Lambe.

Lord Montrose, Duke of Buckinghamshire.

I must thank you for the kind invitation.

GEORGIANA: Think nothing of it.

Mr. Parker is organizing the party.

I'm barely aware of inviting you.

May I presume to ask if you might take the air along the promenade tomorrow?

ARTHUR: I fear Miss Lambe is otherwise engaged.

Even if I'm not, the answer would be the same.

Hmm, then I shall respectfully withdraw.

That was suspiciously easy.

Hmm.

Look.

(sighs) Oh!

Ow!

(grunts) My dear lady...

Please forgive me.

I am not your dear lady.

Poetry?

Are you the author?

♪ ♪ No lasting damage, I hope.

As a matter of fact, I'm mortally wounded.

LADY DENHAM: Edward!

♪ ♪ Good day to you, miss.

♪ ♪ Was that Mr. Colbourne's niece?

You'd better have a very good reason for talking to her.

We barely exchanged a word, Aunt.

She dropped her book, I returned it.

It was entirely innocent.

Hm.

♪ ♪ You'd do well to stay away from that man, Miss Markham.

♪ ♪ LADY MONTROSE: You cannot fall at the first obstacle, Harry!

You're obviously not charming enough!

You will try again tomorrow.

Redouble your efforts.

And as for you, Lydia, the search continues.

Mr. Arthur Parker is unwed, but of no great means.

Sir Edward Denham is notorious, as well as penniless.

And Mr. Hankins... (sighs): ...hardly warrants a mention.

PRYCE: This town is a damn sight smaller than I was expecting.

Well, it may seem that way from, uh, this vantage point, Mr. Pryce, but, uh, if you will accompany me down on to the beach... No, no, no, no, no, I have a loathing for sand.

Well, um, uh, perhaps I might interest you in a spot of lunch?

I have a rather fine claret.

You needn't butter me up, Parker.

I have made my fortune by listening only to my gut.

And at this moment, it is telling me that I would be a fool not to invest in your hotel.

♪ ♪ Well, that is wonderful news, Mr. Pryce.

Uh, all that remains is Lady Denham's approval.

But that is a mere formality.

I shall introduce you tomorrow.

Papa!

Papa!

You'll never guess who's returned to Sanditon!

No!

I'm stumped.

Miss Heywood!

AUGUSTA: She said how much she missed us all.

How much she regrets the circumstances of her departure.

Did she?

Hmm.

You, uh, always told us it was her decision to leave.

That was my perception.

Hmm.

♪ ♪ AUGUSTA: You can't deny it, Mrs. Wheatley.

You saw how he reacted to her name.

I am saying nothing.

LEONORA: What are you talking about?

Your father and Miss Heywood are in love.

I have long suspected it.

That is why she left so abruptly.

It all makes perfect sense.

But what does that mean?

It means that before she leaves Sanditon, we must force them to acknowledge their feelings for one another.

And how do you intend to do that?

Perhaps if we could get them to dance together.

If only somebody was holding a party.

♪ ♪ TOM: Yes, you see, well, with all the apartments, uh, now taken, we're having to turn new visitors away-- thank you.

Hence the need for an elegant new hotel, hm.

I'm astonished that you have finally lived up to your promise, Mr. Parker.

You have turned our town into a thriving resort.

Thank you.

(chuckles) And I believe you have secured an investor.

Well, no ordinary investor, my lady.

A veritable King Midas.

Oh.

Does the gentleman have a name?

(doorbell ringing) I believe that might be him now.

Please excuse me.

(chuckles) TOM (in front hall): Mr. Pryce, good morning!

PRYCE: Is it?

Why?

Did he say Pryce?

Yes, Mr. Rowleigh Pryce.

I suddenly feel unwell.

Where is your servants' entrance?

What?

(yelling): Where is your servants' entrance?!

Oh, this way, this way.

TOM (in front hall): This way, please, Mr. Pryce.

TOM: My dear wife, Mrs. Mary Parker, is also in attendance.

Lady Denham, allow me to introduce you to... Um...

Unfortunately, Lady Denham was called away unexpectedly.

I usually take a nap this time of the day.

Will you tell Lady Denham, whoever she may be, that I do not care to have my sleep stolen for no purpose!

Damned impertinence!

Mr. Pryce, I... (exhales) CHARLOTTE: And she just ran away?

I've never seen a woman of her years move with such alacrity.

I cannot account for it!

(chuckles) Yeah.

Well, no matter.

We shall invite Mr. Pryce to Georgiana's party tonight.

We shall sit them together, then she cannot escape.

Given your description of Mr. Pryce, might they not prove a rather combustible mix?

Well, as long as they are talking profit, I suspect she'll be all ears.

MARY: Charlotte and I are going to visit Mrs. Filkins in the Old Town-- we will meet you and Mr. Starling at the beach.

Dearest heart.

I cannot wait.

(people talking in background) CHARLOTTE: It's a while since I visited the Old Town.

I always thought it an irony that the very people that built Sanditon and who serve its visitors should live so humbly themselves.

I've never thought of it like that.

And Mrs. Filkins was once your maid?

Yes.

She married Mr. Filkins and had children and hasn't stopped since.

I visit as often as I can with a few gifts or provisions.

That's kind of you.

It's not just a kindness.

It's nice to find an occupation outside being a wife and a mother.

Rewarding as that is, of course.

(baby fussing) Oh, you're too generous, Mrs. Parker.

Honestly, Mrs. Filkins, it's the least I can do.

Forgive the mess.

If I'd known you was coming... Not at all.

Jonas, don't do that!

You wouldn't mind, would you, miss?

(softly): Hi!

It has been a bit overwhelming, if I'm honest.

You always think one more won't make a difference.

I know what it's like-- I'm one of 12.

And what's your name?

Tess.

And this is my sister Dora.

When I visit you next, I'll bring some books.

Will you teach me to read them?

MARY: Alas, Miss Heywood is leaving tomorrow.

Then she is to be married.

Oh, congratulations, miss.

Before you know it, you'll be just like me.

♪ ♪ I've never felt such apprehension.

I feel like an actor about to open as Hamlet.

I'm sure there'll be some detail that has escaped me.

I never meant for this to be such a burden, Arthur.

It is only a party.

It is rather more than that to me.

I suppose I'd hoped it might, in some small way, make up for my part in the Lockhart debacle.

Forget about him.

You are a true, dear friend.

And tonight will be perfect.

(shop bell ringing) Oh, uh, Mr. Pryce!

(chuckles nervously) Uh, did you receive the invitation?

I trust you will join us tonight.

I don't care for parties, Parker.

Far too clamorous for my liking.

Thank you all the same.

(stammers): Lady Denham specifically requested your presence there, sir.

She was most apologetic for missing you yesterday.

Oh, very well.

I daresay I could put in a brief appearance.

But don't expect me to dance!

(chuckles) (seagulls squawking) (man guffaws) (all laughing) ARTHUR: Yes, very good!

Ralph, will you take a turn?

I am happy to remain a spectator.

TOM: Nonsense, Mr. Starling, I insist!

I bet you will prove a natural.

RALPH: I'm not so sure.

(sighing): I fear the peacock returns.

GEORGIANA: Oh, for pity's sake.

(sighs) (clears throat, sniffs) I thought I was quite clear that I have no interest.

(softly): Neither do I.

Not in the least.

But if you would be good enough to pretend, just for one moment, that you find me extraordinarily amusing, then I give you my word, I will leave you alone.

♪ ♪ (laughs) (laughing) Do we know who that man is, Tom?

That, my dear... (Georgiana laughing) ...is the Duke of Buckinghamshire.

Lady Denham, Lady de Clemente, and now a duke.

I had no idea you kept such rarefied company.

That's why I need you, to keep my feet on the ground.

Come, Mr. Starling.

TOM: Thank you, brother.

(Tom and Arthur exclaim) AUGUSTA: Miss Heywood!

Miss Lambe's maid told us you were picnicking here.

LEONORA: We have something for her.

Oh!

Georgiana!

You remember Miss Markham and this is Miss Colbourne.

Many happy returns on your birthday!

We've brought you a present.

Thank you!

AUGUSTA: We hope your party is a great success, Miss Lambe.

Forgive me.

When I sent out the invitations, I thought you were in Bath.

What a shame.

I should have loved to attend more than anything.

Uh, I'm sure one more guest wouldn't make too great a difference.

Would it, Charlotte?

It's your party.

You are too kind, but...

I would require a chaperone, which would mean bringing my uncle.

I fear that is too far.

GEORGIANA: Not at all.

You both would be most welcome.

Thank you so much!

♪ ♪ (Arthur grunts) (cheers, laughs) Well played, Mr. Starling.

You and the Duke of Buckinghamshire seemed to be getting on rather famously, Georgiana.

I remain unconvinced of his charms.

Well, you seemed quite convinced from where I was sitting.

(chuckles) Now, if I could see you become a duchess, I, I would feel I'd truly fulfilled my role as guardian.

MARY: Let's not get ahead of ourselves, Tom.

We know nothing about him.

I suppose, if nothing else, it would finally rid me of the fortune hunters.

Shall we see if we cannot find some bigger shells for your necklaces?

(chuckles) My mother left me a necklace made from shells.

♪ ♪ (chuckling) ♪ ♪ AUGUSTA: Miss Lambe meant to invite us in the first place, but just assumed we were still in Bath.

The party is just hours away.

I'm not convinced I can be good company at such short notice.

Augusta has already accepted.

You should have consulted me first.

(sighs): Well, I knew you would be keen on attending since there will be so many prospective suitors there for me to meet.

How could we pass up such an opportunity?

This seems a rather sudden change of heart.

Hm, perhaps I have learned the error of my ways.

Miss Heywood will be there.

She expressed great hope in you attending.

Since you've already accepted, it seems I have little choice.

Hm.

(door shuts) ♪ ♪ HARRY: I called to ask if you might see a way to... ...to forgetting anything you may have observed on the beach today.

I saw nothing.

Your Grace.

Thank you, Miss Lambe.

As a duke, I must maintain certain appearances, you understand.

All too well.

However, I do have a proposition.

♪ ♪ HARRY: She has given me the great honor of accompanying her to her party.

(gasps) And of opening the dancing with her.

Oh!

Oh, my darling boy, that is balm to my soul!

I knew she'd be unable to resist you once you'd set your mind to it.

And as if that weren't enough good news...

I believe I've found you a match, Lydia.

He's a wealthy widower recently returned from Bath, he sounds quite perfect.

His name is Alexander Colbourne.

♪ ♪ Do I pass muster?

You must be seen at your best tonight, sir.

Life affords so few second chances.

As I am all too aware.

Well, Uncle, I am ready.

Are you?

(laughs) ♪ ♪ Is it not thrilling, Mary?

Everywhere one looks, there is another lord or lady.

You mustn't forget tonight is for Georgiana, my dear.

Not for Sanditon.

Can it not be for both?

(chuckles) Charlotte, you look quite spectacular!

I hope you realize how lucky you are, Mr. Starling.

Oh, I can't believe my good fortune.

Although I can't say what use Charlotte'll have for such finery in Willingden.

Hm.

Yes, please.

I fear we find ourselves amongst a rather rakish crowd this evening, Beatrice.

I pray we shall be delivered from the beastliness of bacchanalian excess.

Hm.

(orchestra playing in background) ARTHUR: Yes, if you could swap these two over.

Yes, sir.

Thank you-- go, go, go.

Welcome!

CHARLOTTE: This is magnificent, Arthur!

You've done Georgiana proud!

Thank you!

Do you really think she'll like it?

I'm certain of it!

(softly): Yes, uh, I, uh... May I borrow your betrothed for a turn about the room, Mr. Starling?

By all means, my lady.

As long as you return her to me.

What if Mr. Pryce decides not to come?

Patience, Tom.

He'll be here, all will be well.

LADY DENHAM: What a perfectly vulgar display.

Inheriting a fortune seems to have robbed Miss Lambe of good taste and discretion.

I regret, meine lady, I shall be at a symposium in London next week, so we shall have to call a brief Zwischenspiel to, uh, Sir Edward's water treatment.

Oh, what a terrible shame.

Oh, I see no reason to pause.

I'm perfectly capable of wielding a hose.

Huh!

(orchestra continues) I do hope Mr. Colbourne were here.

Oh, it's an old dress, but, uh...

Yes, you look passable.

You must ration your compliments, Mother.

You will make me conceited.

(sighs) The first time we met was at a party not entirely unlike this one.

(chuckles) I had never felt so out of place.

Look how far you've come!

(chuckles) ♪ ♪ Miss Heywood.

Lady de Clemente, may I introduce Mr. Colbourne.

My lady.

And I've already had the pleasure of meeting Miss Markham.

How are you enjoying the party, my lady?

♪ ♪ You look exceptionally well, Miss Heywood.

Thank you.

I assume Miss Markham persuaded you to come.

No, no, on the contrary, I...

I came more than willingly.

I was hoping that we might have the chance to speak.

I... LADY MONTROSE: Lady de Clemente, would you be so kind as to introduce us?

Can this be the famous Mr. Colbourne?

(chuckles): An introduction seems rather redundant now, does it not?

Oh, on the contrary, Mr. Colbourne may not be aware that I am the Dowager Duchess Lady Montrose and this is my daughter, Lady Lydia.

Your Grace, Lady Lydia.

My niece, Miss Markham.

Miss Heywood.

How do you do, Miss Markham?

A pleasure to see you again, Miss Heywood.

And you, Lady Lydia.

(guests applauding) LADY MONTROSE: And that is my son, Lord Montrose, Duke of Buckinghamshire, and Miss Lambe, of course.

(applause continues) Oh, I should never have expected such a warm reception.

It is not you.

It is because I have arrived.

(applause continues) ♪ ♪ Forgive me, Your Grace.

I didn't know you and Georgiana were so well acquainted.

Oh!

Well, we haven't known each other for long, but our rapport was instantaneous.

(both laugh) ARTHUR: Georgiana, a word.

(quietly): I cannot see you yield to another fortune hunter.

I'm told he's quite notorious.

And I'm told that his father has gambled away their entire fortune.

(softly): I know what I am doing.

History will not repeat itself.

(clears throat) GEORGIANA: Tonight is perfect.

You've surpassed yourself.

LADY SUSAN: Charlotte tells me you have known each other since childhood.

I have known and loved her my whole life, my lady.

Although I confess, she seems quite a different person here in Sanditon.

One I hardly recognize.

For better or worse?

It is not for me to say.

(orchestra playing) LADY MONTROSE: Oh, you have my sympathy, Lady Denham, what an indignity.

Have we any idea who this elusive gentleman is?

Well, whoever he is, he's clearly a man of ill breeding and atrocious manners.

(quietly): Keep your eyes fixed on Mr. C., in case he should glance over.

But if he does, look away at once.

Have you spotted any eligible suitors yet?

AUGUSTA: Um, it, it is too early to tell.

And you, Uncle?

(chuckles) (orchestra playing) HANKINS: Well, then, Sir Edward, you must tell me what your concerns are.

Sometimes I wonder if my aunt will ever relent.

What if I spend years enduring her treatments and still find myself out in the cold?

But your soul will still be saved.

FUCHS: It is a weeklong symposium on recent medical advances.

I am sure it would be of little interest.

Oh, on the contrary, Doctor, I am an assiduous autodidact.

(exhales) Oh, your glass needs refreshing, Fräulein.

HANKINS: Uh, she has had an ample sufficiency, thank you, Dr. Fuchs.

Oh, about time.

We'd given you up for dead.

As I live and breathe.

Louisa Brereton!

Lady Denham to you.

(laughing) I told you all would be well.

They're getting on famously.

LADY DENHAM: You expect me to believe that this was coincidence?

I swear upon my life.

Had I known you were Lady Denham, I should not have come within 100 miles.

Poppycock!

(footsteps approaching, keys rattling) MRS. WHEATLEY: Miss Colbourne.

It is long past your bedtime, is it not?

How can I sleep, Mrs. Wheatley, knowing they may be dancing together right now?

It'll give you something to dream about.

But what if Augusta's right, and they do fall in love?

Miss Heywood will be my mother.

Imagine that!

Let's not get ahead of ourselves, shall we?

♪ ♪ Miss Heywood.

When I heard that you had returned to Sanditon, I could only assume that you would wish to keep your distance.

But when I heard that you had spoken of your departure with regret, I dared to hope that there might yet be a chance to tell you that... RALPH: Charlotte.

Mr. Colbourne, this is Mr. Starling.

He and I are to be married.

Then I must congratulate you both.

Thank you, sir, but I interrupted... Not at all, I, um, was merely inquiring as to whether we might persuade Miss Heywood to return as our governess.

But I see now that is not to be.

You have proven to be quite irreplaceable.

Miss Heywood.

Mr. Starling.

(waltz playing) Is it true that your father ruined you?

Afraid so.

We are paupers with a title and a large house.

Hence my mother's jubilation at this match.

My guardians are equally delighted.

My suitors quite deterred.

(waltz continues) MARY: You're in a merry mood!

Is it any wonder?

Georgiana has a duke, we have a new investor, and soon Sanditon shall have a hotel.

RALPH: Mr. Colbourne is not quite the ogre you described.

Aren't you glad I saved you from the life of a governess?

Immeasurably.

LADY MONTROSE: Mr. Colbourne has a very pleasing countenance, don't you think?

Highly.

Although I would have thought he was a little young for you.

(waltz continues) I see Mr. Colbourne is returned from Bath.

They say his niece-- an orphan, poor thing-- inherited a small fortune from her parents.

Scant consolation for losing them.

(waltz continues) My lady, you finally had the pleasure of meeting Mr. Pryce.

"Pleasure" is not the word I'd use.

I would not trust that man to put up a tent, let alone a hotel.

(music ends, guests applaud) You will not accept one penny of that man's money.

Not so much as a ha'penny or a farthing!

AUGUSTA: Why didn't you tell me you were getting married?

I thought I had.

It is hardly the sort of thing to slip your mind.

You must join this next dance, it is a quadrille.

I'm afraid I don't know the steps.

Then you don't mind if I borrow Charlotte.

You and the Duke of Buckinghamshire?

I'll explain later.

You and Mr. Colbourne?

There's nothing to tell.

(orchestra playing) With your permission, I wonder if I might write to you from London.

BEATRICE: I should like nothing more, Herr Doktor.

(orchestra continues) Miss Markham.

I have been warned about you, Sir Edward.

You have quite the reputation.

Then you shouldn't believe everything you hear.

Well, I am perfectly capable of forming my own opinion.

(orchestra continues) I wish you luck in finding a new governess.

I wish you a happy marriage.

I hope he is worthy of you.

I understand you keep a fine stable, Mr. Colbourne.

I am a keen equestrian myself.

(clapping in rhythm) Then you must come riding at Heyrick Park.

At your convenience.

(orchestra continues) (laughs) Shall we continue our arrangement?

I see no reason not to.

LOCKHART: Stop the music!

(music, clapping stop) ♪ ♪ (softly): Miss Lambe.

I must speak with you alone.

Georgiana.

♪ ♪ Uh... Mr. Parker?

ARTHUR: Maestro, please!

(claps) (music begins) What is the meaning of this?

You were not invited.

You're the last person on Earth I wish to see.

It pains me to ruin your celebration, honestly, it does, but I'm afraid what I have to give you cannot wait.

GEORGIANA: What is this?

I am hereby serving you with a writ stating that I am the rightful heir to your father's fortune.

I suggest you find yourself a lawyer.

♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ Another lawyer turned her down?

GEORGIANA: If I lose my father's inheritance, I lose my independence.

En garde!

Do we know you?

No, but I know you.

CHARLOTTE: Georgiana needs me.

LADY SUSAN: You're sure that she's not just an excuse not to return to Willingden?

♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ANNOUNCER: Go to our website, listen to our podcast, watch video, and more.

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