Original subtitles

And with the Industrial Revolution came millionaires

who'd compete to throw the most lavish parties.

And they'd try to outdo one another with their big desserts or their huge hats.

They'd even compete to see who could have the most magnificent mansions.

One man plated his entire bathtub in 24 karat gold leaf.

Imagine taking a bubble bath in that.

But miss, aren't places like that just in fairy tales?

Oh, no.

No, they're very real.

Trust me.

In fact, I used to spend my summers in a big

mansion just like that when I was your age.

Well, back in the States.

Lucy.

Excuse me.

Excuse me.

Enjoy the rest of your tour.

Lucy, giving children tours of my galleries again?

That's what our daughter No sense of four.

Sorry, Isabelle.

I was just passing through and I guess I got pulled in.

I love that exhibit.

Come along.

I need my director of development upstairs.

We've got a plan for the fundraiser tonight.

So catch me up on where we are.

Sure.

So I reworked the seating chart.

All of our major donors will be sitting up front.

And you will be between the Lord Mayor and Ambassador Phillips.

Oh, Lucy.

You remind me of me.

Museum directors are made.

They're born.

And you truly have the makings of one of the greats.

You know, I'm relocating back to New York soon.

And I can't think of anyone who works harder than you.

Thank you.

Your passion and knowledge of history is undeniable.

And your organizational skills are top-notch.

Well, I decided to nominate you as my replacement when I retire next month.

Isabelle.

Really?

Oh my gosh.

That would be a dream come true.

But before we pop the champagne, just one more hurdle.

I do need to get the trustees on board with you first.

I will wear them down like...

Like... like the Duke of Wellington wore down Napoleon at Waterloo.

Precisely.

Okay.

Name tags done.

Catering taken care of.

Isabelle's speech printed and proofed.

Oh, I don't think Hannibal had this much to do crossing the Alps.

Anything else, Josephine?

Ah, that just about does it.

I'd say we're ready for the fundraiser tonight.

Well then, since the new exhibit's going in

downstairs, I might just sneak down for an early peek.

Oh, so you're meeting the Hobart Foundation at two.

And then Lady Jacobs to nail down her gift for the East Wing.

And you still have to call back that cute Cambridge

professor that wants to take you out on a date.

He doesn't want to take me out on a date.

He just wants my help writing his grant proposal.

Lucy, you're a victim of your own success.

Well, I should take these down to the archives.

Oh, I got it.

And, uh, cover for me if anyone asks.

Have fun.

Enjoy the new exhibit.

Oops.

Sorry.

Excuse me, sir, is this rubbish you're throwing out?

Hey, that I am.

Why?

This pot right here is actually Delft pottery.

It's a real treasure.

You might want to hang on to it.

I had no idea.

Thank you.

You're welcome.

Take good care of it.

Hi, Nigel.

Did you have a good day?

Great, Lucy.

Oh, this came for you.

Special delivery.

Away from the U.S.

of A.

Looks official.

H.K.

Rourke, attorney at law.

Lucy Windsor, I've been trying to reach you since your great-aunt wife left.

This can't be.

Lucy, I'm so sorry to hear about your aunt.

Thanks, Isabelle.

She was a wonderful lady.

She passed away last month.

Oh, is that her?

Yes.

Aunt Grace.

The kindest, most adventurous soul you could ever meet.

Wow.

What a lovely estate.

I'd guess Gilded Age era.

Upstate New York?

Oh, close.

Rhode Island.

It's called Wycliffe House.

I grew up spending my summers there.

Your aunt lived there?

Great aunt, actually.

Her husband, Arthur, was the last of the Wycliffes.

His grandfather, Henry, built the house over a hundred years ago.

I spoke to my folks, and they said that Arthur didn't have any remaining family.

So, Aunt Grace bequeathed the whole thing to me.

Inheriting a mansion?

That's something that doesn't happen every day.

Aunt Grace invited us up there.

Every single summer.

Until I handed off to Oxford.

Now, who's that?

Uh, Duncan.

Son of the caretakers.

My aunt took him in after he lost his parents.

Hmm.

Uh, anyway...

Oh, Lucy.

I hate to ask, but must you go all the way to the stage right now?

The trustees' meeting is just around the corner.

Apparently, the way the will is written, if I don't go soon, the property goes into

a receivership, and becomes a big legal mess.

I understand.

Do what you need to do, but please hurry back.

I know I can get the trustees to approve you.

Thanks, Isabelle.

I will be back before you, even though I'm gone.

Oh, I hope so.

Because if I don't get a successor soon, they'll roast me like, uh...

Like the Great Fire of London in 1666.

Precisely.

Oh, have a good flight.

Thank you.

Hello, I'm Lucy Windsor.

As if I needed to be told.

I recognized you in an instant.

Eleanor.

Of course.

I'm so sorry.

I didn't know you still worked at the estate.

Oh, yes.

How long has it been again since you've been here?

Ten years.

I wanted to come back sooner to visit, but work just kept me so busy.

Your Aunt Grace understood.

She was always so proud of you.

She sorely missed in town, but she lived a long and happy life.

I just wish she were still here.

Oh, so do I, honey.

Well, come along.

You must be exhausted after your flight.

Thank you.

The back seat?

Well, you are the mistress of the estate now, after all.

But first an old friend.

It is just as beautiful around here as I remember.

I had so many wonderful times here.

And as I recall, you and Duncan spent a great amount of time here together, too.

You were kind of sweet on each other, if memory serves.

The follies of youth.

Actually, Lucy, about Duncan... It's okay, Eleanor.

He is one part of all of this that I am happy to forget.

There she is.

Right where you left her.

Magical.

What is all this?

The welcoming committee?

The fence in our pasture has fallen down, and

your Aunt Grace could never say no to visitors.

You go on in and get settled, honey.

The door sticks a little.

Got it.

It's a little sticky, huh?

Lucy?

Lucy?

Duncan.

What are you doing in my house?

Uh...

Lucy, what are you doing in my house?

Your house.

My house.

What would give you that idea?

It's not an idea.

It's a fact.

That this is my house?

Mine.

Okay, I think maybe there's been some kind of a mistake.

Why wouldn't Grace tell me that she was leaving the house to both of us?

Tell you?

Why wouldn't she tell me?

I don't know, maybe because I've been here and you've been in London?

Regardless, it's perfectly obvious there's been some sort of a clerical error.

You changed your hair.

Yeah.

So how have you been, Lucy?

Oh, I've been good.

I've been really, really good.

Good.

Good.

And you, uh, you work in some museum in London, I heard?

Mm-hmm.

Yeah, no, and I might even become its director.

Knock.

Well, knock wood.

Mm.

And you, you're some fancy architect now.

Fancy?

I don't know.

I mean, I'm working for a big commercial firm up in Boston.

Well, I'm glad we're all caught up.

Excuse me.

Eleanor?

Why didn't you tell me about Duncan?

I tried.

You didn't want to know.

I'm going to make some tea.

Besides, it's high time you two buried the hatchet.

Duncan, this has been lovely.

I am going to go take a little look around.

Be my guest.

Be my guest.

This place is still amazing.

A window back to the 1890s.

Well, they don't build houses like this anymore.

And that's a good thing.

Give me a modern condo any day.

A place that can heat with up-to-date plumbing and electrical.

It's still magical, though.

Yeah, it might look magical, but this place is slowly falling apart.

Note the buckets.

It's seen some disrepair since the last time you visited.

Not to mention half of the room's already closed up.

You see the problem?

Yeah, I'm starting to.

Grace used to hold her Gilded Age ball in here.

Yep.

This place has definitely seen better days.

The last two years I've been coming down here on the

weekends to help Grace out with the upkeep when I can.

That's surprisingly charitable of you.

A brief lapse in judgment, I assure you.

But seriously, this place is an absolute money pit

and needs to be sold off at the earliest opportunity.

Assuming you own it, which you don't.

Which I do.

And I am well on my way to coming up with a brilliant sales pitch for it.

That is, if the developer Mr. Niven is open to hearing my presentation.

Richard Niven, the billionaire?

Oh, so you've heard of him.

Yeah.

He specializes in building golf courses.

And I've heard that he's interested in opening a new one around here.

Turn the estate into a golf course?

Seriously?

Oh, I'm sorry.

Did you have a better plan for this place?

Not at this exact moment.

But surely there must be a better option than turning

a magnificent estate into some putty and grain.

This is 1890s at its finest.

The stained glass, the marble floors.

Out with the old, in with the new.

Duncan, how can you be so blind to all the history around you?

How can you be so blind to the bottom line?

Listen, Frank Lloyd, wrong.

You are not going to move a stone of this mansion.

Okay.

Well then, what do you suggest?

This has got to be some big mistake.

And Grace would never put me in such an impossible situation.

I suggest that we get a little clarity from H.K.

Rourke, attorney at law, and figure this out in the morning.

Fine.

Fine.

Which hotel are you staying at in town?

Hotel?

No, I'm not staying at a hotel.

I'm staying in the west wing of my mansion.

Great.

Then I'll be staying in the east wing of my mansion.

Great.

I'm going to go that way to the east wing.

Yeah, that's fine.

After you.

Stop watching me leave.

You stop first.

Lucy, how's life on your estate?

Where do I start?

Turns out Duncan is staying here too.

Duncan?

His father was a caretaker.

He used to live here.

But he's impossible, as always.

Duncan thinks he inherited half the estate.

Well, co-owners of an estate, that sounds kind of romantic.

Trust me, it is the opposite of romantic.

But I have to admit, he does look pretty good.

Ooh, details, please.

What's he look like?

A little bit like our statue of Marc Anthony.

But with the same flair for betrayal.

He's got some scheme to turn the place into a golf course.

A golf course?

Well, that seems a bit daft.

Exactly.

But as soon as we figure this whole thing out with the

lawyers in the morning, I am going to send Duncan packing.

Well, good luck, Lucy.

Thanks, Joss.

I'll need it.

What is happening out there?

Hey, Duncan.

Oh, a beautiful morning to you.

So you're still not an early riser?

You ever hear of a little thing called jet lag?

Vaguely.

But I'm happy to help you get back onto local time.

Okay, look.

I'm a little tired.

I could really use some more sleep.

Do you have to do that right now?

Well, if you want a hot shower before we go visit the lawyers, then yes.

The water heater's down, so I gotta fire up the old boiler.

Well, can you chat more quietly, please?

Oh, you bet.

Good morning.

Eleanor.

You really didn't have to do all this.

Of course I did.

Oh, it's such a delight to have you and Duncan together here again.

We're not together.

Definitely not together.

Uh, bad choice of words.

One lump or two?

Stevia?

You are H.K.

Rourke.

Yes.

But Hannah is fine.

Hi, Duncan.

Hello, Hannah.

So you two know each other.

Duncan took me to the Newport Regatta.

Oh.

Well, please.

Sit down.

First, let me extend my sympathies.

Grace was a big part of our community.

Thank you.

I really miss her.

I do, too.

That's why it's a little odd to be talking business right now.

And that brings us to the question of what happens next.

Well, Duncan, regarding that mistake that you

called me about, it's actually not a mistake.

Regarding Grace's will, the situation is actually quite clear.

Simply put, you both own the estate.

What?

But how can that be?

What she said.

Grace was quite specific in her will.

She arranged that you should both own 50%.

And I'm sorry that I couldn't explain the full situation until you had both arrived.

But Grace had sworn me to secrecy.

Duncan, Grace mentioned in her will how much she appreciates

everything you and your family did for her over the years.

And she wanted to extend her gratitude.

And, Lucy, Grace knew that you loved that place as much as she did.

And you would always have its best interests at heart.

Which is why it makes absolutely no sense that Grace would do this.

Well, that much we agree on.

Okay, so, if I own half... Then I own half.

Then we have to come to some sort of agreement.

Look, the truth of the matter is, the house is

all that's left of the great Wycliffe fortune.

There's a small stipend to pay for Eleanor, but that's it.

And I'm here if you guys have any more questions.

Thank you very much for taking the time, Hannah.

We appreciate it.

Oh, hey, Duncan.

Um, really good news.

My client, Mr. Niven, has agreed to hear your golf course presentation.

I hope it helps.

Thanks.

Yeah.

So, Hannah is the one who found your potential buyer?

Yep.

For a small 10% finder's fee.

She's just trying to help.

In London, we'd call that a weak conflict of interest.

Okay.

How about we find a civilized way of ironing this all out?

For breakfast, maybe?

So that our weakness for waffles?

I'm buying.

You read my mind.

Pancakes and waffles.

Will do, Duncan.

Thank you.

And for you, miss.

Wait, Lucy?

Randall.

It's so good to see you.

Hi.

Oh, Duncan and Lucy.

Nice to see you two together again.

We're not together.

Duncan, you didn't tell me Lucy was back in town.

Well, that's because I'm as surprised as you are, my friend.

Well, welcome home, Lucy.

Still like your waffles with strawberries and a pyramid of whipped cream?

You have a fantastic memory.

So what have you been up to?

Oh, just working here, helping Eleanor when

she has errands, helping out with the festival.

You should stop by if you have time.

I'd love to.

Okay.

I'll put this in.

Randall's still a hoot.

Lucy had the courtesy to send me a Christmas card every now and again.

You left the country.

And you never replied to any of my letters.

You know what?

Water under the bridge.

So how is it that you're still so close with everyone here in Newton?

I thought you were some high-flying architect in the big city.

I have been coming down to Newton every weekend for

one reason and one reason only, and that is the estate.

It is a monster that needs constant feeding, and I am finished with it.

But that house has been here for over a hundred years.

How can you turn your back on it?

Look, Lucy, if we could just sell this estate, I would have the funds to start my

own architecture firm, and you could go back to London with a tidy little nest egg.

What do you say?

But if Niven goes for it, what happens to the estate?

Well, the plans that I suggested would see the grounds opened up for the fairways,

and we would probably have to lose the coach house, the gardens...

Bulldoze the gardens.

Dunk it.

Over my dead body.

Do you have any idea what it takes a maintainer to stay like this?

Well, no, but I want to leave it in good hands.

I don't know, maybe I could get it designated as a historical landmark,

and then I could start applying for grants to protect it.

We would be lucky if Niven picked it up.

Our other option is just putting it on the market, and

honestly, at this rate, it wouldn't even pass inspection.

Okay, so what do you propose?

I suggest that we sell off a few odds and ends so we have the funds to patch up.

While we try to figure out what to do with the rest of the place.

Fine.

Ooh.

Did you know that Belgian waffles were invented

in the 1800s by the Prince Bishop of Liege?

Nobody knows that, Lucy.

Well, what do you think, Dad?

My money's on Lucy.

She always was headstrong as a kid.

True.

But Duncan's always got a trick or two up his sleeve.

It's a shame they can't just... Just work together, I know.

Of course.

Maybe they just need a nudge.

What?

No.

Out.

Out.

Shoo.

Shoo.

Shoo.

Shoo shoo shoo shoo.

Go on.

Out.

Out.

Out.

Out.

Go.

Morning.

Where's Eleanor?

Uh, she left a note.

She went to town...

...to help out with the festival and left breakfast on the stove.

Meanwhile, why don't you put your world-class architectural skills to use

and fix the lock on the kitchen door so Percy will stay where he belongs?

Percy?

I named the sheep that just pushed his way into the kitchen.

Why Percy?

Because he's so persistent.

Huh.

Sounds like somebody else I know.

I'll add it to the list.

So I've totaled the amount of money we'll need for the

essential fixes before we can even show this place.

We'll need to touch up the paint, fix some of

these windows, and of course pay the roofers.

Gotta get started.

This house has lasted for a hundred years.

I think it can make it through breakfast.

No time like the present.

Duncan.

Duncan, what are you doing with those?

We need money to fix the roof, remember?

So I thought we could sell off a few of

these things at the antique auction in Newt.

It's just collecting dust.

But these are Aunt Grace's things.

And Wycliffe family heirlooms.

Sacrificing themselves to keep this house from

falling apart seems like the most noble duty of all.

It's just random stuff.

Random stuff?

That is a 19th century oil painting.

Yeah.

Like trees.

And that antique Venetian vase is in perfect condition.

Not this whole thing.

Oh.

Oh, those chandeliers in the Great Hall are probably worth something.

No.

Duncan, I love those.

Okay.

How about this?

We've got dozens of these.

Those are emblematic of the fascination in the 1890s of botany and floral history.

We have to keep at least one.

Okay.

What is your obsession with history?

Oh, those are treasures.

And this is Aunt Grace's diary.

We certainly can't sell that.

Okay, granted.

That was a mistake.

What about this painting with the pretty girl in it?

Uh-huh.

Very funny.

This Victorian hall stand is an antique.

Lucy, be practical for once.

We need to fix this roof.

Okay.

Fine.

Make it quick.

Ready?

Okay.

And this one?

I'm proud of you.

I mean, if Randall or Collins even give us a hand to bring these down to auction.

But I'm going with you to make sure you get a fair price.

Deal.

The 1890s were a unique moment in our town's history.

When Henry Wycliffe decided to build his estate

here and ended up helping build much of the town.

And the Wycliffes continued that tradition.

Henry's grandson, Arthur, and his wife, Grace, built our city park there.

I have nothing but happy memories here.

Finally something we can agree on.

Sold.

One antique oil painting for $1,200.

Not bad.

That's $3,000 in total.

All right.

I'll admit it.

You have an eye for this stuff.

My.

A compliment.

Will the wonders ever cease?

All right.

It's like traveling back in time.

It's fascinating, isn't it?

Mm-hmm.

Yeah, fascinating.

You know, that beer garden back there sounds

pretty fascinating to me, don't you think?

You go ahead.

I'm going to browse.

Lucy Windsor?

Is that you?

Mr. and Mrs. Durenson?

You remember my husband, Marcus?

Of course.

Lucy, it's been ages.

Randall told us.

We're in town.

Grace would be so happy to have you back home.

Here to handle the estate, no doubt.

Yes.

And give Hannah Ork a little competition.

You and Duncan were pretty serious back in the day.

Are they, uh, dating?

No.

But Hannah's the top shot in the darts contest every year, and Duncan's got a

bull's eye on his back, whether he knows it or not.

Ha, ha, ha.

Well, she can tag and release him, for all I'm concerned.

Well, Eleanor says that you're undecided about what's to come of the estate.

Yes, things are up in the air, but we'll figure it out.

Lucy, you must come by the cafe for dinner.

To welcome you back to town.

I would love to, but I'm a little concerned about leaving Duncan in the estate alone.

Goodness knows what he'll try to sell off next.

We'll bring him along, then.

I'm more the barrier.

Yeah!

Okay, sure.

See you then.

Okay!

We'll take it.

That's very gallant of you.

Are you buying me a gift with our money?

No, I got this.

Any percent of our antique money for the repairs.

Okay, I take back what I said.

You...

always did have a tiny sweet spot.

Hmm.

So now you remember.

Too bad posterity will remember you as the guy you told me about.

I tried to turn a landmark into a sand trap.

Right.

And, uh, remind me, what was your idea again?

I told you, I'm thinking on it.

Oh, can I grab one of these?

Egg cream.

Another way to a girl's heart.

Just like old times.

Ooh.

These look pretty yummy.

It smells good.

Yeah.

Look at these.

Wow.

Can you believe we once dressed like this?

Decades from now, some modern architect will be

saying the same thing about photographs of us.

I love imagining who these people were.

Where they worked.

Where they lived.

Who they loved.

I forgot how much I love this festival.

The antiques and the costumes.

It's all so unique.

It's a shame it's only once a year.

It's too bad it can't last all year.

What?

Nothing.

Can we go back to the estate now?

Yeah.

So, how's the life of leisure?

A lot more work than I expected.

And Duncan?

He's still got a Napoleon complex mixed with a dash of Genghis Khan.

But in spite of Duncan's plans, I have an idea to save this place.

Uh-oh.

I can hear the wheels turning from here.

What's your plan?

Well, it's just that there's so much history in this town.

And I realize the estate doesn't have to be just a historical landmark.

Visitors can step back in time.

Like that colonial Williamsburg my nephew visited.

Exactly.

The town is the perfect stop on the mansion tourist circuit.

And our little Newton doesn't even have one.

One museum.

The challenge is going to be how to make it happen.

Well, if anyone can make it happen, it's you.

Oh, and Lucy, don't forget your conference call with the trustees is in four days.

I'll be ready.

Thank you, Josephine.

Bye.

Bye.

You seriously think that plan's gonna work?

Were you eavesdropping?

Can't help it.

Echo we holds.

Oh.

You're not afraid of a little competition?

Are you?

Afraid?

Not a chance.

So, as co-owners of the estate, you don't mind if I

present an alternative proposal to your potential buyer?

Mr. Niven?

Of course not.

Keep you out of my hair while I work on my proposal.

Please, have at it.

Okay.

And whichever idea Niven supports, we both agree to approve.

Sure.

I'm game.

Have fun.

I'm gonna save your house, Aunt Grace.

You mind turning down your music?

Really?

Come on, Duncan, it helps me think.

It literally prevents me from thinking.

Fine.

Okay, now you're humming.

Lucy, there are literally 39 other rooms in this place.

Are you sure you don't want to work in one of them?

Since the estate's half mine, I believe this too.

The table is half mine.

And this room inspires me.

How's that presentation coming along?

Great.

Did I tell you about my idea to turn the Solarium into a botanical exhibit?

Did I tell you my plan to turn the Solarium into a pro shop?

Huh.

According to my web search, there are already

four other golf courses within 30 miles.

Does this area really need another?

According to my research, it could take years to get a site that can fit 30 miles.

I've even declared a historical landmark.

Ah, so you've been researching my idea.

Guess my plans got you a little intrigued.

Yeah, guilty.

Intrigued.

At how completely impractical you still are.

But just for argument's sake, how would you possibly fund this?

I'm going to devote part of the house to showcase antique vendors and local

craftspeople from town, and we can sell their goods here.

It's called revenue.

Revenue?

Mm-hmm.

And that revenue would be enough to keep this entire place running.

I think it's worth a try.

I think you've still got your head up in the clouds.

All right.

You know what?

If we're going to share this estate, then maybe we should set some house rules.

Great idea.

For starters, how about no drying your laundry on the priceless antiques?

Fine.

If you agree to no more than one hour of your... music a day.

Fine.

Now, if that's all, we are due at the pub for dinner tonight.

Oui.

Look, I said yes for both of us.

I couldn't help it.

Yeah, that's great.

I'm starving.

I'll see you downstairs in five minutes.

Wow.

Look who's here.

Our guests of honor.

What's all this?

It's nothing.

Just a little dinner to welcome you back home to Newton.

You didn't have to do this.

Nonsense.

You two are officially our guests of honor.

Thank you.

I sense a trap.

So, hope these rumors aren't true of selling

the estate and hightailing it out of town.

You want to take this one?

We're still trying to figure things out, but I...

am working on a plan to save the old place.

Well, Wycliffe House is this town's heritage.

And I can't think of anyone better than you two to watch over it.

To Wycliffe House.

To Wycliffe House.

You know, Lucy, I remember all those summers you'd visit Grace.

You always seemed so at home here.

Name one thing that London has that we don't have here.

Okay.

Um...

The museums.

I'd say this whole town's a museum.

You can't argue that.

Look, all joking aside, I love it here.

But my dream job is waiting for me back in England.

Dream job, huh?

Well, I'll admit, a dream job's pretty serious.

But...

desserts like this only come once in a lifetime.

Desserts?

Truly, you didn't have to do all this.

Oh, but we did.

See, your Aunt Grace has helped every single

person in this town in one way or another.

And Marcus and I got engaged with the ball that your aunt used to throw every year.

And Randall learned to ride at your stables.

And it's high time that we repaid the favor.

Welcome back.

Welcome back.

Welcome back, Lucy.

I

love this part of you.

Thank you, State.

I had forgotten how hospitable everyone is in this town.

Yeah, some things never change.

I'm starting to get the feeling that they're trying to convince us to stay.

I could think of worse things than staying.

Oh, you hear that?

What?

The sound of crickets.

Instead of us squabbling.

It's pretty nice.

Hey, tell me something.

What happened that last summer we were here together?

You were headed off to grad school.

You were going to be thousands of miles away.

How could it have worked?

So you just cut and ran?

It was the practical thing to do.

Practical, again.

Someone had to be.

You were always the dreamer.

Okay, look.

I know my idea is just a pipe dream.

And you're right.

It does take forever to get a historical designation.

But I can't just sit by and watch all of this go away.

This estate is home to way too many happy memories for me.

And Aunt Grace... I miss Grace, too.

You forget, I lived here year-round.

I know every inch of this place.

I grew up here.

I went to Boston to start over.

But Grace needed my help.

And this estate and all of its needs kept calling me back over and over and over.

And I need to be done with it.

This firm is the most important thing to me.

I've always been focused on the past.

And you've always been focused on the future.

Who says history has to repeat itself?

What do you mean?

Okay, well, let's face it.

A house divided cannot stand.

Go on.

I want a historical site.

You want a golf course.

Why can't we have both?

I am not following you.

How about a resort that showcases history?

It's the best of both worlds.

Interesting.

But Niven is expecting a golf course, plain and simple.

But he's a businessman.

And we'd be doubling the potential revenue stream and preserving the history.

More tourists flock to this town every year.

That's an opportunity.

True.

And we could hold Grace's Gilded Age ball just like she used to do and really show

off the estate to Niven the way it's meant to be seen.

That seems very ambitious.

We have two days to come up with a sales pitch.

What do you think?

A golf course that doubles as a history park.

Yeah, why not?

Maybe it's the moonlight, but I think you might be on to something.

Deal?

Deal.

So the fountain stays put.

That's right.

We won't have to move a stone.

And then the Great Hall becomes our grand lobby.

We make a pretty good team.

Like Hamilton and Burr.

Before all that unpleasantness.

Sure.

What's next?

You know, for an architect, you have some pretty good hands-on skills.

Thanks.

My dad used to let me help him fix things around the house.

Did you know that?

That Aunt Grace and Arthur were married here on the estate?

I wonder how many other weddings this property has seen.

Weddings?

That's not a bad idea to add to the proposal.

Yeah.

You know, courtship in the late 1800s was truly fascinating.

A gentleman's invitation to a dance was often delivered

to a lady in a letter to avoid any misunderstanding.

And suitors would woo their beloved with moonlit

serenades and poetry and acts of chivalry, of course.

Sounds exhausting.

Will you help me move this, please?

Sure.

Oh, watch out!

Chivalrous.

Well, I think I'm gonna go wash up.

And then what do you say... We head to the festival!

Perfect!

We can spread the word about the ball.

It's so great that you're bringing back Grace's Gilded Age Ball.

Well, it is the finale of our pitch to Niven to preserve Wycliffe House.

Give me those.

I'll put these up around town.

I'll show Niven what Wycliffe means to this town.

Take a shot, folks!

Take a shot and win a prize!

Come on!

Take a shot and win a prize!

Guys, take home a beautiful antique vase from the Gilded Age.

Miss, what about you?

Oh, no, no, no.

Thank you very much.

Come on, Lucy.

It looks fun.

I bet you picked up some skills back in England.

The only targets I'm used to hitting these days are third-quarter donations.

No.

Thank you.

No, thank you.

I get it.

You're scared.

That's cool.

Scared?

Okay.

Since you put it that way... I'll take two turns.

I'll show you who's scared.

Yeah.

What was that?

Your technique is all over the place.

Look.

May I?

So, the thing with darts is...

you've got to line it up from your shoulders.

Place your elbow...

and you can go.

All right.

Here goes.

Hey, look who's here!

Looks like you're getting into the spirit of things, Lucy.

We're just taking a break from the estate to enjoy the festival.

You know what?

This does look like fun.

I'm gonna play, too.

Hannah, you clear out all my prizes every year.

Thank you.

Well, darts has been really mysterious lately.

What have you two been up to?

Just trying to do what's best for our place.

Well, I've set up the perfect opportunity for you.

I hope you're ready for Niven.

Maybe your sales pitch is more on target than your dart game.

And then, we can be done with the estate and head back home.

It is still the plan, isn't it?

Yes.

Yes, it is.

Don't feel bad, Lucy.

It's an acquired skill.

You know, at Oxford, we used to start with our weaker hand.

And we'd play fresher.

Stop.

Stop.

Stop.

It's nice.

Oh, that was amazing.

Oh, I'm glad my post-grad came in handy for something.

Well, thank you for sharing.

You're welcome.

Sharing an estate is easy.

Sharing my popcorn, that's a challenge.

Well, I'd say we were doing a pretty good job at it.

You know, we were always different.

But somehow it just worked.

You know what they say about opposites.

So, uh, you and Hannah seem pretty close, huh?

Sure.

I mean, she's been very helpful with things.

You sure it ends there?

Yes, I'm sure it ends there.

What about you?

Are you, uh...

Are you seeing anyone back in London?

No, not really.

The last guy I dated was perfectly nice, but...

he just didn't appreciate the things I'm passionate about, you know?

The final straw was when I caught him listening

to a cricket match at a Michelangelo exhibit.

Mm-mm.

Whoa.

I should probably head back.

Yeah, and I've got a conference call to go through.

Not to mention a Gilded Age ball to play in.

Let's go.

That came down fast!

Let's get a fire started and warm this place up.

Oh.

It'll be a lot easier to fix things up around

here if our fingers aren't frozen solid.

That's good.

Hurry up.

I'm trying.

We can get closer.

I'm freezing.

All right, Mom, I'll just be right here.

Trying to get this...lit.

Hi, Josephine.

Lucy, how's the life of luxury?

Lovely.

Just missing a few modern conveniences like heating.

Can you hear my teeth chattering?

And Duncan?

Still a battle of wills?

Actually, he's been a little more Gandhi than Genghis lately.

Go figure.

Well, I just wanted to let you know that I emailed you the spreadsheets you asked

for, with all of the donor totals for your call.

Perfect.

Thank you.

And I'll give you a heads-up when I know what time your call is with the trustees.

In the meantime, stay warm.

Bye, Josephine.

Thank you.

Bye.

Bye.

Finally!

This is better.

Is everything okay on the home front?

Yeah.

Just getting my ducks in a row for my conference call with the trustees.

Big promotion.

You really want this new job, huh?

Of course I do.

Then why don't you sound so convinced?

It's just, I got into museum work because I love history.

Preserving the past.

Sharing a story that's been told for centuries.

But my job keeps pulling me away from all that.

You know, so much of the real work is politics and red tape, budgets and donors.

So would this new promotion, this dream job, allow you to do more of what you love?

Actually, I don't know.

Then why exactly do you want it?

Who would that be?

I just invited a few friends over.

That's how I think you all can showcase your merchandise right here.

So I could exhibit my vintage costumes here?

Exactly.

And Eleanor, I was thinking you could showcase your baking skills in a little

bakery we'll set up in the downstairs kitchen.

Wonderful.

You know, I bet half the folks in town would jump at the chance to sell their

antiques and crafts up here to visiting guests.

That's the idea.

And if our buyer goes for our proposal, your crafts

and antiques will have a home here year round.

So, what do you think?

I'd say we think it's all a great idea.

Fantastic.

Well, I'll need you all to be set up for our presentation to Niven.

And we expect to see you all tomorrow at the... Ball tomorrow night.

We can't wait.

Oh, we look forward to seeing you take the first dance.

Just like Grace and Arthur used to do.

First dance?

Well, we can't argue with tradition, can we?

Wait a second.

Don't tell me that you are still self-conscious about dancing.

A little.

Okay.

How about a little refresher course?

May I have this dance?

I haven't danced in years.

Really?

I thought your job was just going to fancy parties.

That's not my job.

Anyway, when I do go to fancy parties, I'm there to schmooze donors.

There's no time for dancing.

And what will happen after this big promotion?

Double the schmoozing, I guess.

So, um...

I got some things that I want to... No, no, I have a... No, I do.

Because of the conference.

That's right.

Big conference.

That's right.

Thanks for the dance.

Yes.

Yeah, yeah, yeah.

Well, uh... Yeah, good luck.

Thank you.

Anytime.

Goodbye.

Bye.

Thank you.

Bye.

Hey.

So, you and Lucy ready for the ball?

Yeah, yeah, I'd say so.

Of course, you realize, my friend, you now have a second chance.

At what?

Come on, Duncan.

Lucy was the one that got away.

We both know it.

Yeah, well, she's heading back to London soon, and history will repeat itself.

Hmm.

As I recall, last time she left, you didn't exactly beg her to stay.

It was a responsible thing to do.

Well, maybe there's a reason you and Lucy are back in each other's lives now.

What?

You never know if you hold yourself back.

Thanks.

Thank you.

Oh, Eleanor, those smell delicious.

Will you put them over there on the table for me, please?

You got it.

Thank you.

What do you think about this here?

Oh, perfect.

Your aunt would be so proud of everything you've done here.

Thank you.

Lucy, you got a second?

What is it?

Niven's gonna be here any minute.

I know.

I know.

I just want to show you something.

Okay.

Ta-da.

Nice nugget down at Randall's for a little rust removal and polish.

It looks amazing.

Everything does.

Oh, yeah.

And Eleanor even found some of Grace's old decorations.

So, you feeling ready for tonight?

Yeah, I guess.

But I have to admit I am a little nervous.

Oh, come on.

I'm sorry.

Was Joan of Arc nervous when she rallied those French troops?

Well...

No, but things didn't work out very well for her.

Okay, that's a good point, good point.

Was Cleopatra nervous?

Did she retreat when the Greeks showed up?

It was the Romans, actually not the Greeks.

But anyway, those were important figures from history.

That's exactly my point.

So are you.

We should finish getting ready.

Yeah, yeah, yeah.

Welcome, Mr. Niven.

Thank you for your interest in buying Wycliffe House.

My pleasure.

Hannes told me great things about you both.

Well, we have a vision to present to you today.

And though it might not be quite what you expected, we believe

it's an even better opportunity than just a golf course.

So, without further ado...

Imagine a resort with all the things you love.

With all the amenities of a five-star hotel.

Golf, spa, luxury accommodations.

And with all the history of a world-class museum.

And as the guests wander through the estate... They will stroll back in time.

And imagine themselves as Vanderbilts or Morgans,

living the lives of gentlemen or debutantes.

They will walk amid living history and

experience life in the Gilded Age firsthand.

Then afterwards, they might enjoy a round of golf or a cocktail by the fire.

Please follow me.

And our rose garden provides the ideal location for weddings and events.

While paying homage to the estate's historic character.

All with five-star dining and accommodations.

All our plans are here in our proposal.

And here's our vision of how the house can be renovated and preserved.

A fusion of historic splendor and modern luxury.

While keeping this magnificent estate intact.

All while delivering one of the finest golf courses in New England.

Please.

Thank you.

What is going on?

This is not what we discussed.

It's fine.

Everything is going to be fine.

You'll see.

Just wait until tomorrow.

And you'll still get your finder's fee.

I promise.

Oh, I hope you know what you're doing.

More and more people are visiting the town of Newton lately.

Making this a unique business opportunity for you.

But it's more than that.

I spent all my summers here as a girl.

And it was the happiest time of my life.

I'd like others to experience that too.

Which is why I'd like to make this a condition of the sale.

And on that note, let me show you where you could plan to put the back nine.

And at our ball tonight, you'll get a glimpse

of what life was like here in the Gilded Age.

Looking forward to it.

I

hate to interrupt your fairy tale, but I'm trying to round

up all of the trustees for your conference call later.

But everyone's in different time zones.

One's traveling in Dubai, another in Singapore.

I'll keep you posted.

Great.

I'm just juggling a few things here, but I'll be ready.

Lucy, the caterers are here.

I need your help.

Sounds like a gentleman caller awaits.

I have to get ready for the ball.

Have fun.

And I'll give you a one hour heads up before

your call so that you can get settled.

Perfect.

Thanks, Josephine.

Bye.

I would have invited you by sending a

letter, but I was worried that it would take.

You look amazing.

You look pretty nice yourself.

Thanks.

I borrowed this from Randall.

I'm feeling a little overdressed.

No, don't.

It suits you.

Shall we?

May I introduce our hosts for the evening.

Lucy and Duncan of Wycliffe House.

Lucy, aren't you a vision?

Oh, your aunt would be so happy that I was dancing in the ballroom again.

Thank you, Eleanor.

You know, I would take this over some stuffy donor's cocktail party any day.

I don't see Nevin.

Lucy, it's time.

Your aunt always opened the gala with a few words.

Thank you all for coming tonight.

Before our evening begins, I want to share with

you something my Aunt Grace always told me.

How her grandfather-in-law, Henry Wycliffe, felt that this house was for everyone.

Here, the gardener might find himself at dinner

eating peach pie next to President Grover Cleveland.

Henry opened his door to me.

He said, I'm going to give my prayers to all.

And my Aunt Grace would be so happy to know

that we're keeping that spirit alive tonight.

I'm not sure I can follow in my Aunt Grace's footsteps, but I will try my best.

And on that note, let the first dance begin.

Are you ready?

Ready as I'll ever be.

You okay?

Everyone is staring.

You're right, but I think they're staring at me.

Wondering how I got such a beautiful dance partner.

So you're due back in London next week.

Well, I suppose every good fairy tale has to have an ending.

Maybe.

Being back here, I've remembered some history.

What?

How happy I used to be here.

How happy I am now.

What is it?

Josephine's been texting.

I missed it.

Sorry, Duncan.

I'll be back as soon as I can.

Josephine.

I'm so sorry I missed your call.

It was so noisy here, I couldn't hear the phone ring.

Lucy, are you ready?

Yeah.

For when?

Uh...

For now.

Your conference call with the trustees?

Hi, everybody.

Uh, Lucy?

Is that a sheep behind you?

Yep.

And now I'd like to talk you through some numbers.

How'd it go?

Honestly, not great.

I'm sorry.

Between the sheep, the music, and keeping them

waiting an hour, it was kind of a disaster.

But the good news is... at least I can finally relax now.

How about a dance?

It sounds great.

Thank you for a truly wonderful evening.

Let me read over your proposal and run the numbers, and

I'll have an answer for you by 8.30 tomorrow morning.

Good night.

Good night.

Good night.

After you.

No pressure.

No pressure at all.

8.30.

Right on time.

Duncan, whatever happens, I really want to thank you for

trying to do something noble here and meeting me halfway.

I'd say we make a pretty great team.

Great party last night.

And I went over the numbers afterwards.

I like the property.

Like the views.

Like the town.

But I'm a straight shooter.

And I'm afraid restoring this estate to its former glory would simply cost too much.

This place likely needs updated plumbing, mechanical, electrical,

and other things we'd only be able to guess at right now.

So for a full and modern restoration...

I'm sorry, I'm afraid the numbers just don't work.

The most cost-effective solution would be a simple tear-down

and building a brand new golf course from the ground up.

And I assume that's what you'd be proposing.

Sir, you're not seeing the bigger potential.

No, no, I'm sorry.

My heart says yes.

But the numbers say no.

And the numbers always win.

I'm afraid my answer is no.

I'm sorry to hear that.

Will you guys just excuse us for a moment, please?

Let me walk you to your car.

Thank you.

I

told you this would happen.

I delivered you a buyer on a silver platter and

all you had to do was go along with the plan.

I told Niven that you would be presenting him with a golf course.

And we gave him one.

And more.

Look, Lucy and I thought that... You and Lucy?

You promised to get Lucy on board.

Not throw me overboard.

Look, you said it yourself.

It was fine to tear down the estate if that's what it took to make this sale.

Yes, yes, I said it was fine to tear down the estate.

But now I think we have a better option.

Which Niven doesn't want.

Okay, look, we have about a day to sell Niven on the plan that he expected.

I suggest that you come up with something to change his mind.

Just give me a second.

Lucy!

So you're still fine tearing down the entire place?

Were you just snooping on me?

Echoey Halls.

Remember?

Yeah, I promised Hannah that I would try to convince her to sell the Niven.

To level the estate for a golf course.

Well, it just... it felt like the most practical plan at the time.

Tactical.

Again.

The more proof we were never right for each other.

I don't know why I'm so surprised, Duncan.

You always do what's right for you.

Wait, that's not... Lucy.

Lucy!

There might be hope for us yet, Duncan.

I'm not so sure about that.

Lucy just texted.

She's willing to give us carte blanche to do whatever we want with the estate.

Just now?

This improves our hand immensely.

It should be easy to find a buyer now.

Who wants to tear down the estate?

Duncan.

You said that you wanted to be free of this place.

This is your chance.

And a chance to move on to something new.

You'll have enough to set up your own firm in Boston just like you hoped.

It's time to think about the future.

Let's see what happens.

Isabelle.

I'm so sorry about last night.

Why would you need to apologize?

Well, after the whole teleconference fiasco.

Oh, yes.

Well, Lucy, your spreadsheet spoke for themselves.

So I hope you're getting a chance to relax.

Because when you get back, you'll have some big shoes to step into.

Which shoes?

Specifically mine.

The trustees voted to approve them.

You're kidding.

Well, there'll be a boost in salary, of course.

That's wonderful.

Yes, and we'll discuss it all on Monday when you get back in London.

You need an answer now.

Lucy, perhaps you don't understand.

The trustees approved you.

You got the job you wanted.

The one a million people would kill for.

Yes.

No, um...

Of course I'm as happy as... As Alexander when he conquered Egypt in 332 B.C.?

Yes.

No, exactly.

I gladly accept the job, Isabel.

Thank you.

And I will see you tomorrow when I fly back to London.

Good.

Bye-bye.

Oh, Lucy.

You're up early.

I was wondering if you could give me a ride to the airport.

Oh.

Of course.

I didn't know you were going back to England so soon.

Honestly, neither did I.

Well, um...

Just let me finish up here and I'll get my coat and...

I'll be right with you.

Okay.

Marcus.

We got a problem.

SIGHS I'm really sorry.

I'm really going to miss this place.

And you'll be missed in Newton.

So how long is your flight back?

Door to door, about ten hours.

But, uh...

I brought some reading.

And Grace's diary.

Thought I'd take it back with me as a keepsake.

I think Grace would have liked that.

Bye, Lucy.

SIGHS SIGHS

SIGHS Something wrong, Duncan?

You usually wolf down my Monte Cristo sandwich in two seconds flat.

Heaven flies off in about an hour and I need to finish this pitch.

You know, Eleanor just called to tell me Lucy left for the airport.

She left.

Headstrong as always.

Who's the headstrong one here?

And proud as well.

You think I'm being proud?

She won't even give me a chance to explain.

You let her go once.

Are you going to let her slip through your fingers again?

What choice do I have?

Go stop her.

I don't think she wants to see me right now.

You know...

Your dad and I were good friends.

If he was here, I'm pretty sure what he'd say.

What's that?

Being caretaker of the estate is more than just changing light bulbs.

Your dad thought he was a caretaker of something precious.

He knew some things were worth saving.

Randall?

I've got a job for you.

Lucy!

Lucy!

Lucy!

Hey, wait!

Duncan, what are you doing here?

I need to talk to you.

I couldn't let you go back to London again without you understanding.

I never wanted to let you go that last summer.

I know.

I...

I read Aunt Grace's journal and... her descriptions of...

how you waited for me every summer before I arrived and...

how sad you were every summer after I left.

I need you to give me one more chance.

A chance for what?

I've been working on this proposal for Niven.

It's a long shot, but I think you might just go for it.

Would you just postpone your flight for one more day?

I don't know, Duncan.

You were right.

It does seem a little impractical.

Letting you go was the most practical decision that I have ever made.

It was also the worst decision of my entire life.

Now I'm asking you to trust me.

Please.

What did you have in mind?

I will tell you all about it on the way back.

We're a billionaire together.

Okay.

Right, no, I understand.

Mr. Niven's time is incredibly limited.

Okay.

Well, we will certainly try.

Thank you so much.

Yeah.

Bye-bye.

Okay.

So Niven is flying out to Aspen to meet his grandkids, but...

His assistant said that we might be able to catch him

before he checks out of his hotel and heads to the airport.

But he's leaving very soon.

You my ride?

Yes, sir.

And I am.

Shoot, it's the festival.

I forgot.

It's the last day.

We'll have to go on foot.

Alright.

We gotta hurry.

Okay, come on.

Follow me.

Excuse me.

Excuse us.

Oh, this is impossible.

Sorry, sorry.

Listen, young man, I've got a plane waiting for me.

I just can't figure it out.

It's never happened before.

I'll probably just fly to the engine.

Have it up and running in no time.

Hey, Duncan, hold up.

Come here.

How much?

Look at that.

Ready to go.

Unless you want to grab a bite.

I know a great restaurant nearby.

Just drive, please.

Mr. Nevin!

Do you have just a minute or two?

Look, I appreciate your efforts.

But you need to understand I'm not in the habit of

reconsidering an offer I've already turned down.

Right.

But we're not talking about a purchase anymore.

We're talking about a small seed investment.

Less risk for you, much more return.

Now, you told us that your heart said yes, but the numbers said no, right?

Well, now I think you'll find the numbers say yes.

I was able to rework some of the renovation costs and save us some money.

So after an initial investment, we can

renovate as we go, funded solely by profits.

It's all in here.

I'll look at it on a plane.

But even assuming your numbers add up, why

would I want to invest in a historical resort?

For a reason you can't put a price on.

Preserving your legacy.

You're a grandfather, right?

Okay, well, how do you want your grandkids to remember their grandpa?

That's the generous man who took them through college.

My aunt used to tell me stories about another generous man.

A railroad baron named Henry Wycliffe, who was a very wealthy man, but he also

wanted everyone around him to live rich lives, too.

He built this whole town.

It's parks.

It's library.

His spirit is everywhere here.

You can see for yourself.

It's all in here.

People still remember his generosity.

And if you have the vision to help preserve his legacy, then maybe in a

hundred years from now, people will be remembering you with the same fondness.

That's the great thing about history.

It lasts forever.

I'll be in touch.

I just got off the phone with Hannah.

I think you may have just sold him on it.

Well, convincing donors was my job.

It was.

I realized something.

My future isn't in some office five stories

above the exhibits I love doing spreadsheets.

My future's here.

So you'll stay?

This is where I belong.

My home is here.

And so is my heart.

Not bad at all.

So how does it feel to have your architectural office in your own house?

My house?

Wait a second.

I thought this was your house.

It's our house.

It's our house.