The People:
A Casualty doctor at Southampton General Hospital, Anna is also studying Humanities
with the Open University, which she will put on hold whilst living in the Edwardian
Country House. She has been married to John for eleven years and together they have
a nine year old son, Guy.
As a child Anna learnt to ride, sketch, embroider, sew and make lace, skills
she rekindles as Lady of Manor House. Anna's unmarried sister
Avril joins the Olliff-Cooper family in the house as Anna's companion. Anna's
eighteen-year-old son Jonty will also join her in the house.
"I do think it would take time to get over my guilt at having people to do
things for me, but having adapted to a life of pleasure and leisure, how would
I ever return to the grind of normality?"
According to the house rules, "As Mistress your first duty is to the
Master of the House.
You should respect his word as final and support him in all he does. You should
endeavour to enhance the position and good name of your family, and with the assistance
of your Sister
and the housekeeper
run an ordered and happy household. Your Family are new to this
part of the country and it is important for you to establish a good reputation, and
position in society. Your Servants will want you to be successful in this, as your
status is now a direct reflection upon theirs."
"Having made his fortune as a carpet merchant and in other related industries, your
husband had Manderston erected as your Country Seat upon being bestowed the title of Baronet.
It was built to be a source of pleasure for your Family and Guests, and not as a
full working estate."
Anna, in her guise as Lady Olliff-Cooper, will be expected to look beautiful at all times,
and will need her lady's maid
in order to change dresses
up to six times a day!
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