Intending to dazzle Ray, Louise shows off a little black number to Diane. Louise's efforts in her appearance appear to have paid off until Ray makes a mysterious exit before dinner and does not return. Clock watching Louise is fed up convinced she's been stood up and dumped. Little does she realise that the reason for Ray not returning is because he has collapsed on the street outside! Ashley puts his words into actions as he arranges a meeting with the Archdeacon to discuss his future. Sadly things don't go as planned and he is forced to hear a few home truths. Ashley takes this news particularly badly and seeks refuge at the bottom of a bottle of brandy.