The Gilded Age Recap: How to Buy a Duke

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The situation with Duke Hector is reaching a critical point. George, Duke Hector, and his attorney, either Steve or Phil, are discussing the prospective marriage settlement. George appears willing to offer a significant amount of money, but Hector desires even more. Bertha suggested there would be a substantial sum, and now the duke is displeased that he’s only receiving immense wealth rather than extraordinarily vast riches. He storms out! It remains uncertain whether Gladys will finally be rid of this heavyweight burden attached to the Duke’s title. If you think otherwise, I might have a bridge for sale – though I wouldn’t; it’s not very kind.

Bertha Russell demonstrates an unwavering focus, with a fondness for elaborate headpieces that I can’t help but notice. If her first goal was gaining access to high society and her second was outshining Mrs. Astor at the opera, her third ambition appears to be orchestrating the Duke of Buckingham to marry her daughter. However, this arrangement seems to result in significant financial losses, so let’s imagine a hypothetical fourth step: “Manipulating political events,” and suppose Bertha Russell was indeed the mastermind behind the assassination of President William McKinley. When questioned about her motives, she would respond, “Because I could,” with a chilling laugh, hinting at her thwarted ambition within the confines of Victorian society. With limited outlets for her ruthless drive in balls, cotillions, and weddings, it seems only natural that she might channel it into sinister political machinations.

It seems clear that Bertha is determined to go through with this marriage, and I can’t help but wonder where Gladys’ positive outlook about her future is coming from here. Are you really questioning whether my mother has encountered any obstacles? Have you ever actually interacted with her or witnessed the incredible things she’s achieved over the past two years?

In other places where Bertha stands, there’s Larry and Marian, who are caught kissing by Bertha’s maid. Marian gets startled, as one might expect, and informs Ada about the incident. Ada reacts, not very helpfully, saying something like “whoa,” implying Marian was careless. However, she then suggests that this might aid Marian in determining her future with Larry. If I’d been engaged as many times as Marian, I too would be cautious; but to kiss in public rooms other than your own home seems unwise! This situation also points to Larry’s negligence, but he remains untroubled since he is not a woman, and his standing in society depends on the way he carries his handkerchief in his pocket. I’m unsure what exactly he said during his private conversation with Jack during the tailoring appointment, but it was probably coded in some way.

As for Ada, it seems the power dynamics at home are still causing some friction between her and Agnes. Despite the shift in who covers the household expenses, Agnes appears convinced that the status quo remains intact, while Ada is growing increasingly frustrated. It’s a bit unsettling that Ada’s name was left off the charity list, when it seems implicit that she contributed. I feel for you, Ada, but it looks like you’ll need to write them a note and include Agnes’s name on the list. If you don’t wish to attend, that’s another matter entirely. Agnes, in a dramatic turn of phrase, suggests that if things continue this way, she might end up living among Newport’s social outcasts and disreputable women. “At least there will be wine,” she says, mimicking Baranski’s tone.

Ada is frustrated because, out of everyone at home, it was only Miss Armstrong who took the pledge for moderation. Agnes is angry and calls for Armstrong, who explains, “Alcohol has wrecked countless lives and ruined families. You’ve never realized I don’t drink?” To which Agnes responds, “I’ve noticed you’re not very lively.” Once again, a jab! Identity theft isn’t something to laugh about, Jim! Is it truly the year 2025 and we’re still making jokes about people who abstain from alcohol? In response, I say, “Hmm. That’s intriguing.

Is there genuine curiosity about the narrative of “Clock Boy”? He attempts to market his timepiece but is disappointed when it doesn’t instantly find a buyer. Then, Miss Armstrong demonstrates compassion toward him, causing us all to experience a touch of warmth.

As I find myself in Newport, I’m graciously hosted by my dear relative, Athena Trumbo, who shares her home with my family. Her name, Athena Trumbo, is such a delight to utter, yet the show fails to capitalize on its potential. Can you imagine the conversations? “Why, indeed, Mrs. Trumbo.” “Athena Trumbo, your hospitality knows no bounds.” “I insist, Mrs. Athena Adelaide Trumbo III, this must be accomplished!” Such a name carries an air of authority and charm, doesn’t it?

They are currently at Athena’s house, and Peggy gets a message from Dr. William Kirkland, a kind doctor who helped her heal at Ada and Agnes’ place. He is also in Newport and wishes to pay a visit, making this scene quite enjoyable. I particularly enjoy the dynamic between Dorothy and Athena. Additionally, Jordan Donica, another renowned figure in musical theatre, plays William. He was even nominated for a Tony Award for his role as Lancelot in ‘Camelot’, a production where Phillipa Soo played Guenevere! And who took over the role of Natasha in ‘Natasha, Pierre & the Great Comet of 1812’ when it moved to Broadway? Indeed, it was Denée Benton, also known as Peggy. What a small world!

Peggy and William take a stroll along a rocky coastline, and Jordan Donica adopts a cheerful yet refined demeanor that I’d label as “chortling gentleman.” He extends an invitation to Peggy and her kin to a gathering at his household. At this social event, it becomes apparent that William’s relatives display snobbish behavior and harbor prejudices related to skin tone. However, the audience is left in a quandary due to the fact that his parents are PHYLICIA RASHAD AND BRIAN STOKES MITCHELL. They cross paths with Peggy’s parents, resulting in Audra McDonald and Brian Stokes Mitchell sharing a scene together. The iconic duo from the 1998 production of Ragtime reunite. This moment is significant for us. Yet, contemplating Phylicia Rashad standing before you makes one contemplate fainting.

The primary source of discomfort seems to be Mrs. Kirkland, who boasts about her family’s five-generation residence in Newport, belittles Peggy’s father for his past as a freed slave and the successful life he built afterwards, and reprimands the governess for allowing the grandchildren out without an umbrella due to “them not needing more sun.” Uh-oh. Upon their return home, the Scotts discuss how intolerable Mrs. Kirkland is. Arthur worries that Peggy’s family may reject her due to the complex dynamics at play.

Once again, we focus on Gladys and Hector. George proposes an increase in Hector’s earnings, intending it as support for Gladys. However, Hector questions, “But isn’t that money not mine?” George feels let down by Hector’s apparent lack of concern for Gladys and doesn’t adjust his offer. The following morning, Hector announces he will be staying elsewhere, leaving Bertha furious. In response, she vows to drink her coffee in the drawing room instead of the breakfast room, distancing herself from everyone and their hasty departures, which she refers to as “dukes driving away.

Bertha’s maid has betrayed her by revealing that Larry kissed Marian, causing Bertha to be on high alert for any suspicious activities. However, it’s challenging to monitor such matters when there are important events like opera galas to attend. Bertha and Gladys go to the opera, which appears to be a French production, possibly by Meyerbeer, though he is actually German; the world of opera can be confusing. At the opera, Hector is seen flirting with Martha Delancey, whose wealthy father is involved in banking and shipping. Later that evening, Bertha sits alone in her bedroom, lost in thought until George enters. He’s upset about the arranged marriage to the duke, but Bertha argues that success in business and social circles are interconnected. She attempts to persuade him to consummate their relationship, but he declines, citing exhaustion and leaving instead. Tensions are mounting; there are signs of strain in this gilded exterior. (The ornate façade?)

In a manner representing George, Bertha extends an invitation to Mr. Delancey, subtly hinting that harm might befall him if Martha marries the duke. He expresses his concern about his daughter being far from him across the ocean, while internally Bertha probably finds this amusing. She then requests his calling card, casually mentioning a past dance between Larry and Martha. This could potentially signal trouble for those who ship Larry and Marian (fans of their relationship), as it seems their romance may face challenges. Of course, such fans must exist; people are often drawn to the stories of young individuals engaging in various activities.

George, Bertha, and the duke engage in discussions (individually and collectively) about money and Gladys’s future. Bertha informs the duke that he can use Gladys’s allowance, since, as my wife often reminds me, “Whatever is yours is mine, dear.” The duke accepts the marriage agreement. Gladys is taken aback. She then talks with Hector, and he expresses his sincere wish for her to be content. Despite all the other events in this episode, I still hold on to hope that things might work out favorably.

In a remarkable turn of events, John Singer Sargent reveals Gladys’s portrait. “Marvelous,” exclaims the duke. George announces their engagement, which is met with thunderous applause. Bertha declares her intention to make it the wedding of the century, causing Gladys to nervously fiddle with her pearl necklace, and it snaps. This intricate symbolism mirrors our intricately crafted series!

Gossip Items for Mrs. Astor’s Next Ball

• Ada Forte’s cook is introducing her to a medium soon and I could die of excitement.

• Why can’t the course of “I just met this person and now I love them” ever run smoothly?

It is possible that Gladys may one day marry successfully and achieve greatness in history. However, it could also be that she will express gratitude to her mother for controlling her life so intensely, much like Bertha’s predictions, though this is rather unlikely.

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2025-07-07 05:56