In 1850 the Earl of Taplow and his family return from Italy to Taplows, their country house, with their retinue of servants, led by butler Jarvis and house-keeper Flora. George Cosmo, a confident youngster, arrives seeking employment as the second foot-man, bringing with him forged references. Whilst Flora is willing to take him at face value, Jarvis is less certain. However the sudden departure of under-butler Frank creates a vacancy which needs filling immediately. George is taken on. First footman William is not impressed but he catches the eye of Grace, nursemaid to the earl's handicapped young son Harry.