17/02/2011

Pip can't believe her eyes when she's taken to the barn and receives the keys to her own car. She's delighted. Pip tells Jill she wasn't expecting a fuss for her birthday, and feels it's insensitive to celebrate. Jill tells her that although Nigel's death is terrible, life must go on.

Usha bumps into Elizabeth in Felpersham, who's waiting anxiously while the children are interviewed for the Cathedral School.

Usha's amazed that Ruth can organise a party for Pip, on top of everything else. She understands what Ruth's up against but having seen how terrible Elizabeth looks she sympathises with David too. Usha suggests Ruth joins the book club she's thinking of starting. Ruth laughs at the idea of having time to read a book.

Pip thanks Elizabeth for coming to her party, and for all her support last year. Pip wishes she could do something in return. Elizabeth just wants Pip to carry on helping Ruth, as it must be difficult with David spending so much time at Lower Loxley. Pip thinks it must be hard to pretend to be happy. Elizabeth insists she is happy for Pip. With everything in front of her, Elizabeth just wants Pip to enjoy it while she can.