01/10/2025

Ed tells Adam and Ruairi about Bartleby and the difficulty for George, and there’s an awkward moment. Meanwhile Brian’s wondering about the maize harvest. Adam assures him everything’s on schedule. Brian probes Ruairi’s knowledge of the situation, and Ruairi passes the test with flying colours. Brian capitulates; it looks like he has time on his hands. He obediently heads off to read a book. Later they put the idea of a holiday to Brian. The Scottish castle won’t be available until 2027 so is off the table. Brian gets the hint that they want him out of the way. Ruairi suggests gently that everyone needs to get used to the new situation, and when Brian gets back he’ll have proof that the farm’s been managed well. Brian can see the sense in this. Some sunshine will do him good. .

It's time to say goodbye to Bartleby. Amber cuts some of his mane to make a bracelet for George. As reality hits Amber’s distress becomes clear. She’s promised she’ll be here for George but she doesn’t know if she can do it. Brad suggests they move to a distance, but she still can’t look. Tearfully she exclaims she’s let George down. Brad assures her she’s been brave, and hugs her until she feels better. Everyone agrees it’s time for a drink.

Later Ed tells Adam he doesn’t want their working relationship tainted by bad feeling over George. They agree not to mention his name. But Adam promises that if George ever upsets Alice, prison will seem like a Sunday picnic.