Monarch Of The Glen (2000) s04e01 Episode Script
Series 4, Episode 1
( wolves howling ) ( growling ) My father's dream was that Glenbogle would be great again.
One way would have been to avoid saddling us with a mountain of death duties, but never mind.
So, we are gonna give the paying public what they most desire- a glimpse of the dark side.
Lexie: The Glenbogle wolves.
They'll be the biggest draw in the highlands.
We'll get visitors by the coachload.
Take more than a few wolves to raise the kind of money we need.
How does "the Glenbogle Wildlife Center" sound? Bison, wild horses, native birds, brought back to the highlands.
Well, I hate to think what your mother'll say when she gets back.
Oh dear, is my hair a terrible mess? ( theme music playing ) My dear brother sends his love.
- Especially to you, Lexie.
- How is Jolyon? He's doing rather well.
He's broken into green beans.
I think he's going to stay in Kenya for good.
Not that I saw much of him.
White-water rafting, elephant tracking, there is so much to do for the lone traveler.
And the journey? I bought an old Jeep and drove to Morocco.
But that's across the Sahara desert.
You'd hardly expect me not to notice.
And what happened to the Jeep? Oh, it got stolen in Tangiers along with the money - everything.
Then an old friend who'd moved to the Costas for professional reasons gave me a lift in his tiger moth.
You flew all the way home in that? Well, very nearly.
But the coast guards fished us out of the drink and here I am.
Oh, I've missed this old place.
And you.
It's your home, Molly.
It's where you belong.
Come on, Lexie, you must fill me in on all the news.
Lexie: Well, nothing much has been happening you ready for the big day tomorrow, Golly? - Duncan: Do I have to sit an exam? - No, just the head keeper.
The guy's name is Burns, and we only open on his say-so.
Glenbogle's future in the hands of a zoo inspector? The new wolf's arriving tomorrow.
She'll need collecting at the station.
That sounds like a job for the head keeper.
( barking ) That's the alpha female, the only one with cubs.
She's magnificent.
Why don't you away in and get a closer look? ( growls ) We're not supposed to get too close.
- It frightens them.
- Ah.
You know, Archie's right.
Loads of people are gonna come and see these.
- Trippers, yes.
- As long as they pay the entrance fee.
Is that all anyone cares about anymore? Like the boss said, this estate's going to be great again.
No, Duncan, it might be a rich estate.
There is a difference.
Where's mother? Probably up to her neck in hot water.
She really is something, eh? So are you.
Don't.
What's the matter? Now that Molly's back, it just feels like I'm taking over.
Well you are, Lex.
You're gonna be the next lady of Glenbogle and mother will be only too happy to pass the mantle on.
Molly's always been really good to me.
It can't be easy for her just watching a new model moving in.
I just don't feel good about it, that's all.
Well, I do.
Are you sure that you should be cuddling the housekeeper, your lairdship? - What? - Oh, nothing, nothing.
Just reminded me of a little surprise, that's all.
Oh, will I like it? I thought we said no secrets.
Yeah, but that's once we're married.
Look, you know I don't want to rush you into anything.
But? But, um no, nothing.
Nothing.
Oh! Can I help you? - I was looking for the kitchen.
- Why? Are you Mrs.
MacDonald? - No, not yet.
- I'm sorry for just walking in.
There was no one around and the door was open.
So, who are you? I'm Irene Stuart, the new cook and housekeeper.
What is that woman doing in my kitchen? Who? Oh, she's arrived.
Good.
- This is your surprise? - I really appreciate how you've looked after us over the last few months.
- Appreciate? - Carrying on as if nothing had changed.
- I really had no right to ask.
- I'm the housekeeper.
I've hired Irene to run the wildlife center catering and I thought she could do the housekeeping as well.
( laughing ) Over my dead body.
Why, what's the matter? I thought you'd be pleased.
You never even thought to ask me first? Then it wouldn't have been a surprise, would it? - If we're gonna be married- - if's right.
When we're gonna be married, you can't be the housekeeper, can you? It was the housekeeper you proposed to.
And it was the laird that you accepted.
So this is a taste of what being Mrs.
Laird's like? I think I'll stay as I am, thank you very much.
I need you with me.
We've an estate to run, staff to look after.
And this is how you look after your staff? - But you're not staff.
- Then what am I? You're part of the management team now.
I want to share everything with you- the running of the estate, the hiring, the firing.
Right, okay, I'll start off with what's-her-face then.
I can hire and fire with the best of them, Arch.
Especially fire.
- Lex.
- Only if it's important.
I'm management now.
Well, that's that sorted.
Seems to be some misunderstanding.
- Oh? - See, the post's filled.
But I've come all this way.
- It was agreed with Mr.
MacDonald.
- Sorry.
- I'd better take this up with him.
- No need.
If he's given the job to someone else.
He didn't.
I'm the cook so there's no vacancy.
Mr.
MacDonald made me an offer in writing.
You might want to brush up on your employment law before you go any further.
See, I don't think you would like it here anyway, they're a right difficult lot.
Most of the chefs I've worked with are on a good day.
I mean, they're on your back day and night.
You've obviously never worked in a top hotel.
- And I suppose you have? - The Grand Lothian.
( laughing ) Not the Grand Lothian? Did you get tired of peeling veg? I was the sous-chef.
That means I was in charge of- yes, I know what that means.
You've come down in the world.
I needed a new challenge.
Right.
You see, people only come to Glenbogle for two reasons: One is to deliver a final demand and the other is to get away from something- - I told you.
- -Or someone.
- I needed a new- - challenge, right.
Well, Irene Stuart, you've completed your first challenge.
You have found the kitchen.
( chuckling ) I thought this would be for the tourists, "how we used to live.
" No, this would be for us, the way we live now.
It has character.
So does the Bates Motel but you wouldn't want to cook in it.
If you show me to my room I'll get changed.
Your room? Okay.
Archie: I'm asking you to set a few traps.
They're only rabbits.
It would help the feeding budget go further.
They'll just have to catch their own.
On this estate an animal dies either from a clean shot or old age.
You and Duncan, you both do the training.
You know what has to be done.
What's at stake.
I will help you - but as a ghillie, not as a butcher.
Fine.
Before you walk away we have a season's shooting to start planning.
Look, I respect your principles.
I'm not gonna ask you to go against them, but I really do believe that the wildlife park is the future.
That's your plan, is it? To phase out the traditional sports in favor of a zoo? We make decent enough money from the game parties, I'm not arguing with that.
But, if and when the wildlife park takes off, then yes, the emphasis will change.
- I see.
- As I said- yes, yes, ideas develop, yes, you said.
This is a far cry from a few wolves to please the punters.
What you're talking about is the slow death of a way of life that this estate has depended on for generations.
I'll not be a party to that.
What about the inspector? The head keeper's exam? Let me ask you something here.
Would your father have gone along with this? - Nope.
- no.
Then how in all good conscience can I? Well, that all depends where your loyalties lie, with him or with me.
I'll have Lexie liaise with you over booking the shoots.
How's it going, Dunc? One electric fence, fitted and working.
- Have they been fed today? - Golly does that.
Not anymore.
That exam.
Head keepers only you said.
As of 10 minutes ago, you are the head keeper.
That's Golly's job.
- He won't do it.
- Why not? He has his reasons, but it's you that I'm interested in.
I don't know.
It's a big promotion.
More money.
Company PlayStation.
It wouldn't be right.
There's no one else I can ask, believe me.
If there was I- I wouldn't put you in this morally ambiguous position.
What about the exam though? It's your big chance.
- Head keeper? - You'd best start work.
- I won't let you down.
- I know you'll do your best.
Ahh! ( knocks, door opens ) I shouldn't have gone away at a time like that but- no, no.
You did absolutely the right thing.
I totally understand.
And those beastly death duties still to face.
Yes, 200 grand.
You'd think they'd name a hospital after him for that.
A ward at the very least.
Um I thought we might eat in the dining room tonight.
Where have you been eating? The kitchen.
Oh, you'll have your father haunting you as a class traitor.
I wanted you to be here before we- reopened the dining room.
Don't stand on ceremony for me.
Eat where you like.
The dining room then.
As you wish.
I missed you, Archie.
I missed you too, mother.
- Who are you? - Who's asking? - And what are you doing in my freezer? - Your freezer? Can't you say anything that isn't a question? Can't you? I'm the housekeeper.
No, you're not.
I'm the new housekeeper.
Which brings us back to you.
I'm Duncan.
The head ra- the head keeper of the Glenbogle wildlife center.
Hmm pleased to meet you, Duncan.
It's Irene.
Head keeper.
That's quite a job.
You been doing it long? Aye.
Now, what can I get you to eat? You wouldn't have a few rabbits kicking about, would you? - A few? - Yeah, say 20? Golly normally feeds the wolves - and I don't know where he gets it.
- Ask.
I can't ask- I have to work this out for myself.
I doubt he feeds them from the kitchen freezer.
There must be a local game dealer.
Yeah, and I can afford his prices.
Aren't there any poachers left in the highlands? Well, yeah, there's old Tommy the Shepherd but your chance remark might have saved the day.
My dear Molly.
Kilwillie.
Home at last from Africk shores.
Oh, Molly, what a hollow shell the world can seem when the sweetest nut has been removed.
Yes dear Hector.
Hmm? Oh, Hector, yes.
Glenbogle will feel rather lonely, I dare say.
Well, I've got Archie and Lexie and the boys- - and you of course.
- At your service.
Who could possibly be lonely? I've been admiring Archie's wolves.
Mmm, so many changes.
Too many, perhaps? Well, I intend to make some myself starting tomorrow.
- Oh, can I help, extra pair of hands? - Would you? I'll be around first thing in the morning, shall we say 11:30? Yes, quite early enough for a gentleman.
No rabbits, I'll grant you, but I doubt your wolves'll turn their noses up, eh? Well, it doesn't say they can't eat fish.
- fresh are they, Tommy? - Aye.
- They're not ours, are they? - No.
You'll want to watch that water.
- It could scald you straight from the tap.
- I will.
And that oven runs at 10 degrees cool.
Only nine, I checked.
You'll find the silver cutlery in the dresser.
It was in dire need of a good clean, as was the dining room.
This ring - you'll find it a bit slow if you're used to cooking with gas.
I've cooked on everything.
So, any more questions? No, thank you.
Dinner will be at 8:00.
Until then.
( door slams ) ( electricity crackling ) Fetch.
( sizzling ) They like salmon, Dunc, but not grilled.
I just thought I'd try something different.
I know this is controversial, but why not use the feeding tube? I was just away to.
Where did you get these? I've got my sources, Archie.
I've got my sources.
- They are fresh? - Oh, aye.
They are ours, yes? Yes.
( growling ) Oh, Badger.
Lay out my dungarees for tomorrow, will you? I don't imagine we possess dungarees, your lordship.
Then something appropriate for manual labor.
Very good, m'lord.
- Oh, Badger.
- M'lord? I may have a guest for dinner tomorrow night.
Make sure the dinning room is well set out.
What hour can we expect the gentleman, m'lord.
The gentleman is a lady.
Golly: I'm sorry, but I can't get excited over a bunch of howling dogs taking over the estate.
They lived here for centuries before they were hunted into extinction.
I think it would be nice for people to see them back in the glen.
In a pound though, eh? So be it, and seeing how they're native, surely they can survive without my assistance.
You look the part.
Golly: That you do, lass.
Well, looks aren't everything.
They certainly help, though.
I think I'd be more use in the kitchen.
You know, in a managerial sense.
No, I'm quite certain it's all under control.
Do you want a drink? I'm not in the mood.
Something the matter? No, Molly, you look great.
Thank you.
Golly, the pipes.
As you say, Molly.
Oh, I am absolutely starving.
Mother, please.
Sweetheart.
Duncan, would you? Thank you.
( bagpipes playing ) Oh, no, no, Lexie, you must sit here.
But that's your place, Molly.
I'm so hungry, I've lost the will to argue.
Archie, you must sit here, of course.
Come on.
Come on, boys.
Don't stand on ceremony.
Sit down, join us.
Duncan, I'm dying for a drink, would you pour? You won't believe this, but that helicopter didn't even have a drinks trolley.
Ah, that's better.
We're all here, dear friends.
We must count every blessing and cherish every moment.
Thank you.
Good choice, Archie.
Ah, supper.
Ooh, and what treat have you got in store for us, Irene, isn't it? Yes, Mrs.
MacDonald.
It's seared sea trout with a chicory flavored tender sauerkraut and a red wine jus.
It looks absolutely fine.
Bon appetit.
( sighs ) Well? Very good.
Of its kind, of course.
- Is everything all right? - Excellent, Irene.
Mmm, aye.
Yeah, well, if the main course is as good as that, I'll be well satisfied.
That was the main course.
( muffled snickering ) I'm I'm terribly sorry.
I meant no offense.
Well, I'm full.
Will you give it a rest? The exam's tomorrow.
I want to be the head keeper even if you don't.
What brought this on? I've always played second fiddle to you ever since I can remember.
It's not that I'm complaining, mind.
I don't have your experience.
I'm not a ghillie.
But I could be a head keeper.
You don't think being scared to death of the creatures is just a wee bit of a disadvantage, no? I'm not scared.
I'm in the process of forming a relationship based on mutual respect.
Well, they haven't eaten you yet, I suppose.
Why don't you put that down and get something inside you? You must be as hungry as I am.
I thought dinner was very tasty.
That kind of modern fanciness has no place round here.
You could give her a chance.
You might get to like her.
If her heart's as big as her portions, I seriously doubt it.
- She's good looking, though.
- Mmm.
Too old for me, eh, Golly? Old? That makes me prehistoric.
Get away.
You're in your prime.
- Where are you going? - The wolf pound.
It'll be dark soon.
A head keeper's place is with his charges, not stuffing his face with bread and cheese.
If you were going to go behind my back, you might as well have hired someone that could turn out a decent meal.
You're her manager, why don't you take it up with her? 'Cause I didn't bring her here.
I had hoped that you might give her a chance.
What, like you hoped Golly would welcome your grand plan with open arms? Get real, Arch.
I am getting real.
I'm about the only one around here who is.
If those wolves don't pay off then we're sunk.
That real enough for you? And you don't care who you tread on in your progress march? I offered Golly a job, he turned it down.
No, you asked Golly to change his whole way of life overnight.
Now we're getting to it.
At least Golly had a chance to say no.
- Meaning? - Meaning you can't ask people to be something that they're not, Arch, just because you want it.
Look, Lex, things are bound to be different.
We're talking about marriage.
No, you're talking about marriage.
What are you doing? I'm just gonna move back into my own room.
Just for now, eh? - Hi.
- Oh, are you starving, too? No, not really.
Here, sit down.
I'll get that.
Poor Irene.
She'll have to beef up our portions or we'll all fade away.
It's the modern way and you can't teach a new dog old tricks.
Isn't it an old dog new tricks? Works both ways.
Now, here we are.
Here, now back your cart in.
Oh, pardon, bon appetit.
Would you like some? No, I'm fine.
You know, Lexie dear, it takes time to get used to a new role.
It isn't easy.
When you've been the housekeeper.
All families need new blood.
Life used to be so certain.
I used to be able to read all the signs and now, now I can't even see one.
Golly's finding it hard too, and so is Archie.
He's lost his father remember, and I've been useless.
Hector didn't cast a giant shadow but he did provide a little shade, and now he's gone.
Archie's feeling the heat.
Everything depends on him now, and his plans.
Are things all right between you? What? Yeah, yeah.
( knocking on door ) Lex? What time is it? I'm on my way out, just thought I'd see if you were okay.
- I'll get you some breakfast.
- no, no, no.
You can't go out on an empty stomach.
I'm fine, really.
It'll take me five minutes.
Irene was about.
She did me some eggs.
Oh.
So you don't need me then.
Of course I do.
I'd better go see to the wolves then.
Duncan: She's not eating.
She hasn't moved in ages.
You sure about that salmon? He said it was fresh.
Well, something's troubling her, poor thing.
Perhaps- perhaps she knows that the new female's coming and she's feeling a bit not wanted.
They're not people, Dunc.
Don't anthropomorphize.
I'll try not to, boss.
You'll have to get your skates on after the exam.
The handler will meet you at the station with the wolf.
She'll be in a traveling box.
Aye, right.
No problem.
They don't attack people, you know that.
Not in the pack, but this one's on her own.
The lone wolf is an entirely different story.
She won't be alone, will she? You'll be there.
- Morning.
- Did you sleep well? Eventually whilst someone was up and about frying sausages.
Don't take it personally, it's just the way you were taught how to cook.
I was taught the basic good manners of not invading another person's work space.
I'll bear that in mind.
That's that's me away.
I thought maybe I'd bring back a couple of rabbits.
Would that be a peace offering? It is the finest food in creation if it's if it's cooked properly.
Hmm.
And what are you going to treat us to? A wee slice of rabbit on some bruschetta with a drizzle of vinaigrette? How would rabbit pie be for lunch? Would that get us off on the right foot? Aye, that would suit me fine, Irene.
Well, you off and do your job then, and I'll do mine.
Don't try and cook native.
Just stick to what you know.
You think I can't manage a simple rabbit pie? A complicated one, maybe.
A simple one, I doubt it.
We'll see about that, won't we? I'll cook lunch.
I'll not see good food ruined.
- Ruined? - yes, ruined.
- ( door opens ) - What's going on? ( dog barks ) - Just girlie talk.
- Talk? I could hear it in the hall.
This person seems to think she's a better cook than I am.
I only suggested I cook rabbit pie.
- I am the cook.
- were the cook.
- Are you firing me? - No one's firing anyone.
So, who's to cook lunch? Irene, perhaps under the circumstances- you hired me to be the cook, Mr.
MacDonald.
She's right, Lex.
That's it, take her side.
Do you know, there are too many ifs and maybes in my life at the moment.
This one gets sorted out right now.
I'll tell you who's going to cook - you both are.
For the title housekeeper/cook of Glenbogle.
Irene, if you lose, there's still a job at the wildlife center.
Lose? in her dreams.
- Who'll judge? - We all will.
Democracy rules.
Rabbit pies at 10 paces.
The laird has spoken.
Come on, dogs.
( dogs barking ) We can't have all this clutter.
There's no hurry.
No better time to spring clean, throw open the windows and get some fresh air into Glenbogle.
I thought father had left all his clothes to Duncan.
Yes, he did.
He's taken what he wants, the rest are going to the charity shop.
It's about time your father did something for the deserving poor.
Now that he's not here to object.
Are you taking all of it? Every last jot and tittle.
I'm glad Monty and Rommel have taken it so well.
Poor little Useless.
They take me for a walk every day.
Always the same the same route.
Old habits die hard.
( whimpering ) Am I intruding? Of course not, and dressed for action, I see.
Well, I'm not one of those who thinks that manual labor is a Spanish butler.
Spam? Hector took the nuclear threat very seriously.
There's enough under the bed to feed a small army.
Or small village perhaps.
What about Glenbogle? Noblesse oblige.
A stack of these, too.
Ah, a full stomach and a hearty chuckle.
Isn't that just like Hector? He wanted you to have these.
You always admired them.
I shall wear them with pride.
They fitted him like the day they were made.
He kept his figure to the end.
( exhales ) What a blessing to be a small-boned man.
What's the book? I've got an exam this afternoon.
Head keeper business.
You'll be okay.
I'm not good at exams.
I mean I liked- I was good at history but when it came to the exam, I didn't even remember how long the 100 years war lasted.
Like cooking, it's all in the preparation.
Give me the book.
And I've got to pick up the new wolf from the station.
One thing at a time.
So, the ancient wolf's natural prey? Red deer, giant deer, megalosaurus, wild horse, wild ox, wild hare.
( bell jingles ) Well, that's the hard part done.
Courage, mon brave.
If I had your courage, Molly.
We must both be brave and count on each other.
This lot'll go down well.
It's rather heart-warming to think that the poor of Africa will enjoy the bracing chafe of the tweed.
- It doesn't work like that.
- We sell them here.
- Oh.
- That'll be one of ours, I dare say.
My dear good woman, all my attire comes from Savile Row.
We have branches everywhere.
Now you mustn't become a stranger to Glenbogle.
Nor you to Kilwillie castle.
As a matter of fact, I've just added a particularly delicious vino to my cellar which it would be sacrilege to drink alone.
- Perhaps you'd join me? - It's a little early, even for me.
- This evening? - I've so much to do.
We could take a turn in the launch.
Shall we say 6:30? Good.
Ah, the hunter home from the hill.
- Where are they? - I'm afraid there were no rabbits to be had.
Golly, the estate's overrun, I mean they breed like- like rabbits.
Nonetheless.
So, how's it all going? - Wee problem.
- Nimrod has returned empty-handed.
Maybe the rabbits moved out when the wolves moved in.
Golly, I know they have sensitive noses but- Archie, those wolves create a terrible strong odor.
- I guess lunch is off then.
- We could have the competition at dinner.
Fine.
It's your turn to decide the menu, Lex.
Oh, we are in for a gastronomic treat.
Cullen skink! Cullen skink? Cullen- excuse us.
Come here.
What? Of all the things, you choose some obscure highland fish stew.
She's probably never heard of it.
- It just popped into my head.
- You really want to win, don't you? I want to marry you and you'd rather be my housekeeper.
You're gonna have to make your mind up, Lex.
Golly? Golly! I'm just getting out of your way now your zoo man's arrived.
- You still work here.
- But if he asks me, I'm gonna have to give him my opinion.
You don't want a conscientious objector around on a day like this.
No, I want somebody who understands animals.
All I know I've learnt from a book.
He's an expert, he'll see right through me.
- I'm sorry, son, but this was your decision, not mine.
- You're leaving me to it? No, I'm going to do the job that I was hired to do.
- By my father.
- Oh- okay, Archie, maybe you're right.
Let's just forget what's gone, get rid of the baggage.
I mean, who cares? That's not the way I feel, Golly.
No.
I know you don't.
( clock chiming ) Don't you want to check your answers, Mr.
McKay? I've got a train to meet.
I'm late already.
Duncan, slow down.
- is there a wolf chasing you? - It's worse than that.
Is Arch giving you a hard time, too? No, I've got to go pick up the new wolf and Burns is here for the inspection and we can't open without him and Archie's really worried and and and he's depending on me.
On you? Aye, great, isn't it? Well, your man's scraped through the written paper.
Well done, Duncan.
Skin of his teeth, but he made it.
The important thing is that he's good with the animals.
Oh, absolutely.
Here's Duncan now.
Burns: Oh, you're going ahead with it? Aye.
I'm not scared of them.
You put a strange wolf into the pack now, they'll probably rip her to pieces! They they don't attack their own.
Well, you can kiss your certificate goodbye until you can find someone that has the slightest inkling of what they're doing.
What's the problem? Burns doesn't want me to put the new wolf in with the others.
He has got a point, the alpha female is pregnant.
You can't sense it? - Burns: who's he? - That's our ghillie.
( latch clicks ) Golly: Easy, easy.
Easy.
Easy, good girl.
Good girl.
That's it.
Go, go.
Easy, easy.
Good girl, that's it.
No one means you the slightest harm.
You can still be the boss of the pack.
- Easy, easy.
- ( wolf whining ) You show some respect for your elders.
You might learn something.
Here.
That's a girl.
That's a girl, get the scent.
Good girl.
see? Nothing to worry about.
May come in handy for the babysitting.
Good girl, easy, easy.
Good girl.
Burns: He's a natural.
Providing he takes the exam you've got your head keeper and your license.
Well? Well, it is not what I'm used to, Archie, but if you ask me to do the job, I'll do it.
Thank you.
Sorry, son.
I handled it badly, Golly.
That you did.
Not just you.
I really messed up with Lex.
I don't know how I could have been so thoughtless.
You had a lot to deal with, but now is the time to mend some bridges.
What about Duncan? Mightily disappointed.
But he's young, he can take the knocks.
The older you get, the harder that becomes.
( laughing ) My granny taught me how to cook.
She taught me everything I know.
I used to dream of living in a castle and cooking for a great family.
Is that still what you want? - What if it is? You're here.
- True.
It's a far cry from the Grand Lothian.
I made a mistake.
Is that what you want to hear? A mistake? And you ended up here? What did you do, poison the president? It wasn't a professional mistake, and no, I didn't poison the president.
I won him over, actually.
- Not the president.
- He was then.
Bill Clinton spent a night in the hotel and I cooked for him.
So, you see, I was destined to be in the kitchen.
Maybe I am too.
So, what did you cook Mr.
Clinton? What I'm best known for.
My signature dish if you like.
Cullen skink.
That was so exhilarating.
The wind and the spray, oh, you really must try it sometime.
"A.
E.
S.
Kilwillie, Eton, second 11.
" Oh well, I was quite an all-rounder in those days.
- Delicious.
- You must have another one.
Or, perhaps something to eat.
Nothing formal, you understand, just whatever the kitchen can muster.
I really must get back.
Our new housekeeper is pitting her skills against Lexie tonight.
There'll be tears before bedtime.
Another time perhaps.
Yes.
Another time.
Look, Lexie, we don't have to do this.
I was wrong, I'm sorry.
Irene can work at the wildlife center, you can carry on here.
What do you say? Let battle commence.
Thank you.
Well done, Irene.
A new take on an old favorite.
Golly: Yes, it's very nice.
Though haddock were just a wee bit bigger in my day.
Never mind.
You can fill up on Lex's later.
- eh, Lex? - One thing at a time, Duncan.
I'm sorry I'm late but Kilwillie absolutely insisted on dragging me out on the loch.
And how is Kilwillie? That was absolutely delicious.
Thank you.
Don't worry, left plenty of room for yours, Lex.
So you've really done it.
You've made your choice? Yeah.
No more doubts.
No more cooking? Why would I want to be in the kitchen when I could be here at my own table with my own man? Duncan: So that's a no to the cullen skink then? I still can't believe you got engaged with a ring pull.
It's all we could find at the time.
- The new wolf seems to have fitted in fine.
- Well enough.
I think it's great, this wildlife center idea.
Makes life more interesting.
Well, you're young.
You're not old, Golly.
You're- experienced.
Some women like that.
For example? No one in particular.
You can put all such ideas right out of your head, Duncan.
She's a looker, and sophisticated.
I've no mind to go courting Irene.
Aye, like you'd no mind to be head keeper, but here you are.
What do you think, Lexie? This yellow for the golden sands of the Sahara or the blue of the African sky? Yellow.
Yellow's more cheerful.
Then yellow it is.
Um I've been thinking about my room.
Redecorating? Moving out and moving into Archie's room.
- May I ask- - if you don't approve, it's fine.
May I ask what has taken you so long, Lexie? Love is precious, every single moment of it.
Don't waste it.
You're not young forever, even if you're in love forever.
Are you? In love forever? Now, when Archie drives you mad, which he will from time to time, you can move into Hector's old room.
I'm going to decorate it next.
Something very warm and very colorful, don't you think? What's this? Archie MacDonald, will you take this former brainless idiot to be your lawful wedded wife? Yes.
But there is one condition.
Oh, yes? Do you think that we might improve on a ring pull? You stingy, Scottish cheapskate.
That is nothing to what my mother called me.
But that's Molly's.
She wanted you to have it.
So, we do get our fairy tale ending.
Good night, Mr.
Laird.
Good night, Mrs.
Laird.
( theme music playing )
One way would have been to avoid saddling us with a mountain of death duties, but never mind.
So, we are gonna give the paying public what they most desire- a glimpse of the dark side.
Lexie: The Glenbogle wolves.
They'll be the biggest draw in the highlands.
We'll get visitors by the coachload.
Take more than a few wolves to raise the kind of money we need.
How does "the Glenbogle Wildlife Center" sound? Bison, wild horses, native birds, brought back to the highlands.
Well, I hate to think what your mother'll say when she gets back.
Oh dear, is my hair a terrible mess? ( theme music playing ) My dear brother sends his love.
- Especially to you, Lexie.
- How is Jolyon? He's doing rather well.
He's broken into green beans.
I think he's going to stay in Kenya for good.
Not that I saw much of him.
White-water rafting, elephant tracking, there is so much to do for the lone traveler.
And the journey? I bought an old Jeep and drove to Morocco.
But that's across the Sahara desert.
You'd hardly expect me not to notice.
And what happened to the Jeep? Oh, it got stolen in Tangiers along with the money - everything.
Then an old friend who'd moved to the Costas for professional reasons gave me a lift in his tiger moth.
You flew all the way home in that? Well, very nearly.
But the coast guards fished us out of the drink and here I am.
Oh, I've missed this old place.
And you.
It's your home, Molly.
It's where you belong.
Come on, Lexie, you must fill me in on all the news.
Lexie: Well, nothing much has been happening you ready for the big day tomorrow, Golly? - Duncan: Do I have to sit an exam? - No, just the head keeper.
The guy's name is Burns, and we only open on his say-so.
Glenbogle's future in the hands of a zoo inspector? The new wolf's arriving tomorrow.
She'll need collecting at the station.
That sounds like a job for the head keeper.
( barking ) That's the alpha female, the only one with cubs.
She's magnificent.
Why don't you away in and get a closer look? ( growls ) We're not supposed to get too close.
- It frightens them.
- Ah.
You know, Archie's right.
Loads of people are gonna come and see these.
- Trippers, yes.
- As long as they pay the entrance fee.
Is that all anyone cares about anymore? Like the boss said, this estate's going to be great again.
No, Duncan, it might be a rich estate.
There is a difference.
Where's mother? Probably up to her neck in hot water.
She really is something, eh? So are you.
Don't.
What's the matter? Now that Molly's back, it just feels like I'm taking over.
Well you are, Lex.
You're gonna be the next lady of Glenbogle and mother will be only too happy to pass the mantle on.
Molly's always been really good to me.
It can't be easy for her just watching a new model moving in.
I just don't feel good about it, that's all.
Well, I do.
Are you sure that you should be cuddling the housekeeper, your lairdship? - What? - Oh, nothing, nothing.
Just reminded me of a little surprise, that's all.
Oh, will I like it? I thought we said no secrets.
Yeah, but that's once we're married.
Look, you know I don't want to rush you into anything.
But? But, um no, nothing.
Nothing.
Oh! Can I help you? - I was looking for the kitchen.
- Why? Are you Mrs.
MacDonald? - No, not yet.
- I'm sorry for just walking in.
There was no one around and the door was open.
So, who are you? I'm Irene Stuart, the new cook and housekeeper.
What is that woman doing in my kitchen? Who? Oh, she's arrived.
Good.
- This is your surprise? - I really appreciate how you've looked after us over the last few months.
- Appreciate? - Carrying on as if nothing had changed.
- I really had no right to ask.
- I'm the housekeeper.
I've hired Irene to run the wildlife center catering and I thought she could do the housekeeping as well.
( laughing ) Over my dead body.
Why, what's the matter? I thought you'd be pleased.
You never even thought to ask me first? Then it wouldn't have been a surprise, would it? - If we're gonna be married- - if's right.
When we're gonna be married, you can't be the housekeeper, can you? It was the housekeeper you proposed to.
And it was the laird that you accepted.
So this is a taste of what being Mrs.
Laird's like? I think I'll stay as I am, thank you very much.
I need you with me.
We've an estate to run, staff to look after.
And this is how you look after your staff? - But you're not staff.
- Then what am I? You're part of the management team now.
I want to share everything with you- the running of the estate, the hiring, the firing.
Right, okay, I'll start off with what's-her-face then.
I can hire and fire with the best of them, Arch.
Especially fire.
- Lex.
- Only if it's important.
I'm management now.
Well, that's that sorted.
Seems to be some misunderstanding.
- Oh? - See, the post's filled.
But I've come all this way.
- It was agreed with Mr.
MacDonald.
- Sorry.
- I'd better take this up with him.
- No need.
If he's given the job to someone else.
He didn't.
I'm the cook so there's no vacancy.
Mr.
MacDonald made me an offer in writing.
You might want to brush up on your employment law before you go any further.
See, I don't think you would like it here anyway, they're a right difficult lot.
Most of the chefs I've worked with are on a good day.
I mean, they're on your back day and night.
You've obviously never worked in a top hotel.
- And I suppose you have? - The Grand Lothian.
( laughing ) Not the Grand Lothian? Did you get tired of peeling veg? I was the sous-chef.
That means I was in charge of- yes, I know what that means.
You've come down in the world.
I needed a new challenge.
Right.
You see, people only come to Glenbogle for two reasons: One is to deliver a final demand and the other is to get away from something- - I told you.
- -Or someone.
- I needed a new- - challenge, right.
Well, Irene Stuart, you've completed your first challenge.
You have found the kitchen.
( chuckling ) I thought this would be for the tourists, "how we used to live.
" No, this would be for us, the way we live now.
It has character.
So does the Bates Motel but you wouldn't want to cook in it.
If you show me to my room I'll get changed.
Your room? Okay.
Archie: I'm asking you to set a few traps.
They're only rabbits.
It would help the feeding budget go further.
They'll just have to catch their own.
On this estate an animal dies either from a clean shot or old age.
You and Duncan, you both do the training.
You know what has to be done.
What's at stake.
I will help you - but as a ghillie, not as a butcher.
Fine.
Before you walk away we have a season's shooting to start planning.
Look, I respect your principles.
I'm not gonna ask you to go against them, but I really do believe that the wildlife park is the future.
That's your plan, is it? To phase out the traditional sports in favor of a zoo? We make decent enough money from the game parties, I'm not arguing with that.
But, if and when the wildlife park takes off, then yes, the emphasis will change.
- I see.
- As I said- yes, yes, ideas develop, yes, you said.
This is a far cry from a few wolves to please the punters.
What you're talking about is the slow death of a way of life that this estate has depended on for generations.
I'll not be a party to that.
What about the inspector? The head keeper's exam? Let me ask you something here.
Would your father have gone along with this? - Nope.
- no.
Then how in all good conscience can I? Well, that all depends where your loyalties lie, with him or with me.
I'll have Lexie liaise with you over booking the shoots.
How's it going, Dunc? One electric fence, fitted and working.
- Have they been fed today? - Golly does that.
Not anymore.
That exam.
Head keepers only you said.
As of 10 minutes ago, you are the head keeper.
That's Golly's job.
- He won't do it.
- Why not? He has his reasons, but it's you that I'm interested in.
I don't know.
It's a big promotion.
More money.
Company PlayStation.
It wouldn't be right.
There's no one else I can ask, believe me.
If there was I- I wouldn't put you in this morally ambiguous position.
What about the exam though? It's your big chance.
- Head keeper? - You'd best start work.
- I won't let you down.
- I know you'll do your best.
Ahh! ( knocks, door opens ) I shouldn't have gone away at a time like that but- no, no.
You did absolutely the right thing.
I totally understand.
And those beastly death duties still to face.
Yes, 200 grand.
You'd think they'd name a hospital after him for that.
A ward at the very least.
Um I thought we might eat in the dining room tonight.
Where have you been eating? The kitchen.
Oh, you'll have your father haunting you as a class traitor.
I wanted you to be here before we- reopened the dining room.
Don't stand on ceremony for me.
Eat where you like.
The dining room then.
As you wish.
I missed you, Archie.
I missed you too, mother.
- Who are you? - Who's asking? - And what are you doing in my freezer? - Your freezer? Can't you say anything that isn't a question? Can't you? I'm the housekeeper.
No, you're not.
I'm the new housekeeper.
Which brings us back to you.
I'm Duncan.
The head ra- the head keeper of the Glenbogle wildlife center.
Hmm pleased to meet you, Duncan.
It's Irene.
Head keeper.
That's quite a job.
You been doing it long? Aye.
Now, what can I get you to eat? You wouldn't have a few rabbits kicking about, would you? - A few? - Yeah, say 20? Golly normally feeds the wolves - and I don't know where he gets it.
- Ask.
I can't ask- I have to work this out for myself.
I doubt he feeds them from the kitchen freezer.
There must be a local game dealer.
Yeah, and I can afford his prices.
Aren't there any poachers left in the highlands? Well, yeah, there's old Tommy the Shepherd but your chance remark might have saved the day.
My dear Molly.
Kilwillie.
Home at last from Africk shores.
Oh, Molly, what a hollow shell the world can seem when the sweetest nut has been removed.
Yes dear Hector.
Hmm? Oh, Hector, yes.
Glenbogle will feel rather lonely, I dare say.
Well, I've got Archie and Lexie and the boys- - and you of course.
- At your service.
Who could possibly be lonely? I've been admiring Archie's wolves.
Mmm, so many changes.
Too many, perhaps? Well, I intend to make some myself starting tomorrow.
- Oh, can I help, extra pair of hands? - Would you? I'll be around first thing in the morning, shall we say 11:30? Yes, quite early enough for a gentleman.
No rabbits, I'll grant you, but I doubt your wolves'll turn their noses up, eh? Well, it doesn't say they can't eat fish.
- fresh are they, Tommy? - Aye.
- They're not ours, are they? - No.
You'll want to watch that water.
- It could scald you straight from the tap.
- I will.
And that oven runs at 10 degrees cool.
Only nine, I checked.
You'll find the silver cutlery in the dresser.
It was in dire need of a good clean, as was the dining room.
This ring - you'll find it a bit slow if you're used to cooking with gas.
I've cooked on everything.
So, any more questions? No, thank you.
Dinner will be at 8:00.
Until then.
( door slams ) ( electricity crackling ) Fetch.
( sizzling ) They like salmon, Dunc, but not grilled.
I just thought I'd try something different.
I know this is controversial, but why not use the feeding tube? I was just away to.
Where did you get these? I've got my sources, Archie.
I've got my sources.
- They are fresh? - Oh, aye.
They are ours, yes? Yes.
( growling ) Oh, Badger.
Lay out my dungarees for tomorrow, will you? I don't imagine we possess dungarees, your lordship.
Then something appropriate for manual labor.
Very good, m'lord.
- Oh, Badger.
- M'lord? I may have a guest for dinner tomorrow night.
Make sure the dinning room is well set out.
What hour can we expect the gentleman, m'lord.
The gentleman is a lady.
Golly: I'm sorry, but I can't get excited over a bunch of howling dogs taking over the estate.
They lived here for centuries before they were hunted into extinction.
I think it would be nice for people to see them back in the glen.
In a pound though, eh? So be it, and seeing how they're native, surely they can survive without my assistance.
You look the part.
Golly: That you do, lass.
Well, looks aren't everything.
They certainly help, though.
I think I'd be more use in the kitchen.
You know, in a managerial sense.
No, I'm quite certain it's all under control.
Do you want a drink? I'm not in the mood.
Something the matter? No, Molly, you look great.
Thank you.
Golly, the pipes.
As you say, Molly.
Oh, I am absolutely starving.
Mother, please.
Sweetheart.
Duncan, would you? Thank you.
( bagpipes playing ) Oh, no, no, Lexie, you must sit here.
But that's your place, Molly.
I'm so hungry, I've lost the will to argue.
Archie, you must sit here, of course.
Come on.
Come on, boys.
Don't stand on ceremony.
Sit down, join us.
Duncan, I'm dying for a drink, would you pour? You won't believe this, but that helicopter didn't even have a drinks trolley.
Ah, that's better.
We're all here, dear friends.
We must count every blessing and cherish every moment.
Thank you.
Good choice, Archie.
Ah, supper.
Ooh, and what treat have you got in store for us, Irene, isn't it? Yes, Mrs.
MacDonald.
It's seared sea trout with a chicory flavored tender sauerkraut and a red wine jus.
It looks absolutely fine.
Bon appetit.
( sighs ) Well? Very good.
Of its kind, of course.
- Is everything all right? - Excellent, Irene.
Mmm, aye.
Yeah, well, if the main course is as good as that, I'll be well satisfied.
That was the main course.
( muffled snickering ) I'm I'm terribly sorry.
I meant no offense.
Well, I'm full.
Will you give it a rest? The exam's tomorrow.
I want to be the head keeper even if you don't.
What brought this on? I've always played second fiddle to you ever since I can remember.
It's not that I'm complaining, mind.
I don't have your experience.
I'm not a ghillie.
But I could be a head keeper.
You don't think being scared to death of the creatures is just a wee bit of a disadvantage, no? I'm not scared.
I'm in the process of forming a relationship based on mutual respect.
Well, they haven't eaten you yet, I suppose.
Why don't you put that down and get something inside you? You must be as hungry as I am.
I thought dinner was very tasty.
That kind of modern fanciness has no place round here.
You could give her a chance.
You might get to like her.
If her heart's as big as her portions, I seriously doubt it.
- She's good looking, though.
- Mmm.
Too old for me, eh, Golly? Old? That makes me prehistoric.
Get away.
You're in your prime.
- Where are you going? - The wolf pound.
It'll be dark soon.
A head keeper's place is with his charges, not stuffing his face with bread and cheese.
If you were going to go behind my back, you might as well have hired someone that could turn out a decent meal.
You're her manager, why don't you take it up with her? 'Cause I didn't bring her here.
I had hoped that you might give her a chance.
What, like you hoped Golly would welcome your grand plan with open arms? Get real, Arch.
I am getting real.
I'm about the only one around here who is.
If those wolves don't pay off then we're sunk.
That real enough for you? And you don't care who you tread on in your progress march? I offered Golly a job, he turned it down.
No, you asked Golly to change his whole way of life overnight.
Now we're getting to it.
At least Golly had a chance to say no.
- Meaning? - Meaning you can't ask people to be something that they're not, Arch, just because you want it.
Look, Lex, things are bound to be different.
We're talking about marriage.
No, you're talking about marriage.
What are you doing? I'm just gonna move back into my own room.
Just for now, eh? - Hi.
- Oh, are you starving, too? No, not really.
Here, sit down.
I'll get that.
Poor Irene.
She'll have to beef up our portions or we'll all fade away.
It's the modern way and you can't teach a new dog old tricks.
Isn't it an old dog new tricks? Works both ways.
Now, here we are.
Here, now back your cart in.
Oh, pardon, bon appetit.
Would you like some? No, I'm fine.
You know, Lexie dear, it takes time to get used to a new role.
It isn't easy.
When you've been the housekeeper.
All families need new blood.
Life used to be so certain.
I used to be able to read all the signs and now, now I can't even see one.
Golly's finding it hard too, and so is Archie.
He's lost his father remember, and I've been useless.
Hector didn't cast a giant shadow but he did provide a little shade, and now he's gone.
Archie's feeling the heat.
Everything depends on him now, and his plans.
Are things all right between you? What? Yeah, yeah.
( knocking on door ) Lex? What time is it? I'm on my way out, just thought I'd see if you were okay.
- I'll get you some breakfast.
- no, no, no.
You can't go out on an empty stomach.
I'm fine, really.
It'll take me five minutes.
Irene was about.
She did me some eggs.
Oh.
So you don't need me then.
Of course I do.
I'd better go see to the wolves then.
Duncan: She's not eating.
She hasn't moved in ages.
You sure about that salmon? He said it was fresh.
Well, something's troubling her, poor thing.
Perhaps- perhaps she knows that the new female's coming and she's feeling a bit not wanted.
They're not people, Dunc.
Don't anthropomorphize.
I'll try not to, boss.
You'll have to get your skates on after the exam.
The handler will meet you at the station with the wolf.
She'll be in a traveling box.
Aye, right.
No problem.
They don't attack people, you know that.
Not in the pack, but this one's on her own.
The lone wolf is an entirely different story.
She won't be alone, will she? You'll be there.
- Morning.
- Did you sleep well? Eventually whilst someone was up and about frying sausages.
Don't take it personally, it's just the way you were taught how to cook.
I was taught the basic good manners of not invading another person's work space.
I'll bear that in mind.
That's that's me away.
I thought maybe I'd bring back a couple of rabbits.
Would that be a peace offering? It is the finest food in creation if it's if it's cooked properly.
Hmm.
And what are you going to treat us to? A wee slice of rabbit on some bruschetta with a drizzle of vinaigrette? How would rabbit pie be for lunch? Would that get us off on the right foot? Aye, that would suit me fine, Irene.
Well, you off and do your job then, and I'll do mine.
Don't try and cook native.
Just stick to what you know.
You think I can't manage a simple rabbit pie? A complicated one, maybe.
A simple one, I doubt it.
We'll see about that, won't we? I'll cook lunch.
I'll not see good food ruined.
- Ruined? - yes, ruined.
- ( door opens ) - What's going on? ( dog barks ) - Just girlie talk.
- Talk? I could hear it in the hall.
This person seems to think she's a better cook than I am.
I only suggested I cook rabbit pie.
- I am the cook.
- were the cook.
- Are you firing me? - No one's firing anyone.
So, who's to cook lunch? Irene, perhaps under the circumstances- you hired me to be the cook, Mr.
MacDonald.
She's right, Lex.
That's it, take her side.
Do you know, there are too many ifs and maybes in my life at the moment.
This one gets sorted out right now.
I'll tell you who's going to cook - you both are.
For the title housekeeper/cook of Glenbogle.
Irene, if you lose, there's still a job at the wildlife center.
Lose? in her dreams.
- Who'll judge? - We all will.
Democracy rules.
Rabbit pies at 10 paces.
The laird has spoken.
Come on, dogs.
( dogs barking ) We can't have all this clutter.
There's no hurry.
No better time to spring clean, throw open the windows and get some fresh air into Glenbogle.
I thought father had left all his clothes to Duncan.
Yes, he did.
He's taken what he wants, the rest are going to the charity shop.
It's about time your father did something for the deserving poor.
Now that he's not here to object.
Are you taking all of it? Every last jot and tittle.
I'm glad Monty and Rommel have taken it so well.
Poor little Useless.
They take me for a walk every day.
Always the same the same route.
Old habits die hard.
( whimpering ) Am I intruding? Of course not, and dressed for action, I see.
Well, I'm not one of those who thinks that manual labor is a Spanish butler.
Spam? Hector took the nuclear threat very seriously.
There's enough under the bed to feed a small army.
Or small village perhaps.
What about Glenbogle? Noblesse oblige.
A stack of these, too.
Ah, a full stomach and a hearty chuckle.
Isn't that just like Hector? He wanted you to have these.
You always admired them.
I shall wear them with pride.
They fitted him like the day they were made.
He kept his figure to the end.
( exhales ) What a blessing to be a small-boned man.
What's the book? I've got an exam this afternoon.
Head keeper business.
You'll be okay.
I'm not good at exams.
I mean I liked- I was good at history but when it came to the exam, I didn't even remember how long the 100 years war lasted.
Like cooking, it's all in the preparation.
Give me the book.
And I've got to pick up the new wolf from the station.
One thing at a time.
So, the ancient wolf's natural prey? Red deer, giant deer, megalosaurus, wild horse, wild ox, wild hare.
( bell jingles ) Well, that's the hard part done.
Courage, mon brave.
If I had your courage, Molly.
We must both be brave and count on each other.
This lot'll go down well.
It's rather heart-warming to think that the poor of Africa will enjoy the bracing chafe of the tweed.
- It doesn't work like that.
- We sell them here.
- Oh.
- That'll be one of ours, I dare say.
My dear good woman, all my attire comes from Savile Row.
We have branches everywhere.
Now you mustn't become a stranger to Glenbogle.
Nor you to Kilwillie castle.
As a matter of fact, I've just added a particularly delicious vino to my cellar which it would be sacrilege to drink alone.
- Perhaps you'd join me? - It's a little early, even for me.
- This evening? - I've so much to do.
We could take a turn in the launch.
Shall we say 6:30? Good.
Ah, the hunter home from the hill.
- Where are they? - I'm afraid there were no rabbits to be had.
Golly, the estate's overrun, I mean they breed like- like rabbits.
Nonetheless.
So, how's it all going? - Wee problem.
- Nimrod has returned empty-handed.
Maybe the rabbits moved out when the wolves moved in.
Golly, I know they have sensitive noses but- Archie, those wolves create a terrible strong odor.
- I guess lunch is off then.
- We could have the competition at dinner.
Fine.
It's your turn to decide the menu, Lex.
Oh, we are in for a gastronomic treat.
Cullen skink! Cullen skink? Cullen- excuse us.
Come here.
What? Of all the things, you choose some obscure highland fish stew.
She's probably never heard of it.
- It just popped into my head.
- You really want to win, don't you? I want to marry you and you'd rather be my housekeeper.
You're gonna have to make your mind up, Lex.
Golly? Golly! I'm just getting out of your way now your zoo man's arrived.
- You still work here.
- But if he asks me, I'm gonna have to give him my opinion.
You don't want a conscientious objector around on a day like this.
No, I want somebody who understands animals.
All I know I've learnt from a book.
He's an expert, he'll see right through me.
- I'm sorry, son, but this was your decision, not mine.
- You're leaving me to it? No, I'm going to do the job that I was hired to do.
- By my father.
- Oh- okay, Archie, maybe you're right.
Let's just forget what's gone, get rid of the baggage.
I mean, who cares? That's not the way I feel, Golly.
No.
I know you don't.
( clock chiming ) Don't you want to check your answers, Mr.
McKay? I've got a train to meet.
I'm late already.
Duncan, slow down.
- is there a wolf chasing you? - It's worse than that.
Is Arch giving you a hard time, too? No, I've got to go pick up the new wolf and Burns is here for the inspection and we can't open without him and Archie's really worried and and and he's depending on me.
On you? Aye, great, isn't it? Well, your man's scraped through the written paper.
Well done, Duncan.
Skin of his teeth, but he made it.
The important thing is that he's good with the animals.
Oh, absolutely.
Here's Duncan now.
Burns: Oh, you're going ahead with it? Aye.
I'm not scared of them.
You put a strange wolf into the pack now, they'll probably rip her to pieces! They they don't attack their own.
Well, you can kiss your certificate goodbye until you can find someone that has the slightest inkling of what they're doing.
What's the problem? Burns doesn't want me to put the new wolf in with the others.
He has got a point, the alpha female is pregnant.
You can't sense it? - Burns: who's he? - That's our ghillie.
( latch clicks ) Golly: Easy, easy.
Easy.
Easy, good girl.
Good girl.
That's it.
Go, go.
Easy, easy.
Good girl, that's it.
No one means you the slightest harm.
You can still be the boss of the pack.
- Easy, easy.
- ( wolf whining ) You show some respect for your elders.
You might learn something.
Here.
That's a girl.
That's a girl, get the scent.
Good girl.
see? Nothing to worry about.
May come in handy for the babysitting.
Good girl, easy, easy.
Good girl.
Burns: He's a natural.
Providing he takes the exam you've got your head keeper and your license.
Well? Well, it is not what I'm used to, Archie, but if you ask me to do the job, I'll do it.
Thank you.
Sorry, son.
I handled it badly, Golly.
That you did.
Not just you.
I really messed up with Lex.
I don't know how I could have been so thoughtless.
You had a lot to deal with, but now is the time to mend some bridges.
What about Duncan? Mightily disappointed.
But he's young, he can take the knocks.
The older you get, the harder that becomes.
( laughing ) My granny taught me how to cook.
She taught me everything I know.
I used to dream of living in a castle and cooking for a great family.
Is that still what you want? - What if it is? You're here.
- True.
It's a far cry from the Grand Lothian.
I made a mistake.
Is that what you want to hear? A mistake? And you ended up here? What did you do, poison the president? It wasn't a professional mistake, and no, I didn't poison the president.
I won him over, actually.
- Not the president.
- He was then.
Bill Clinton spent a night in the hotel and I cooked for him.
So, you see, I was destined to be in the kitchen.
Maybe I am too.
So, what did you cook Mr.
Clinton? What I'm best known for.
My signature dish if you like.
Cullen skink.
That was so exhilarating.
The wind and the spray, oh, you really must try it sometime.
"A.
E.
S.
Kilwillie, Eton, second 11.
" Oh well, I was quite an all-rounder in those days.
- Delicious.
- You must have another one.
Or, perhaps something to eat.
Nothing formal, you understand, just whatever the kitchen can muster.
I really must get back.
Our new housekeeper is pitting her skills against Lexie tonight.
There'll be tears before bedtime.
Another time perhaps.
Yes.
Another time.
Look, Lexie, we don't have to do this.
I was wrong, I'm sorry.
Irene can work at the wildlife center, you can carry on here.
What do you say? Let battle commence.
Thank you.
Well done, Irene.
A new take on an old favorite.
Golly: Yes, it's very nice.
Though haddock were just a wee bit bigger in my day.
Never mind.
You can fill up on Lex's later.
- eh, Lex? - One thing at a time, Duncan.
I'm sorry I'm late but Kilwillie absolutely insisted on dragging me out on the loch.
And how is Kilwillie? That was absolutely delicious.
Thank you.
Don't worry, left plenty of room for yours, Lex.
So you've really done it.
You've made your choice? Yeah.
No more doubts.
No more cooking? Why would I want to be in the kitchen when I could be here at my own table with my own man? Duncan: So that's a no to the cullen skink then? I still can't believe you got engaged with a ring pull.
It's all we could find at the time.
- The new wolf seems to have fitted in fine.
- Well enough.
I think it's great, this wildlife center idea.
Makes life more interesting.
Well, you're young.
You're not old, Golly.
You're- experienced.
Some women like that.
For example? No one in particular.
You can put all such ideas right out of your head, Duncan.
She's a looker, and sophisticated.
I've no mind to go courting Irene.
Aye, like you'd no mind to be head keeper, but here you are.
What do you think, Lexie? This yellow for the golden sands of the Sahara or the blue of the African sky? Yellow.
Yellow's more cheerful.
Then yellow it is.
Um I've been thinking about my room.
Redecorating? Moving out and moving into Archie's room.
- May I ask- - if you don't approve, it's fine.
May I ask what has taken you so long, Lexie? Love is precious, every single moment of it.
Don't waste it.
You're not young forever, even if you're in love forever.
Are you? In love forever? Now, when Archie drives you mad, which he will from time to time, you can move into Hector's old room.
I'm going to decorate it next.
Something very warm and very colorful, don't you think? What's this? Archie MacDonald, will you take this former brainless idiot to be your lawful wedded wife? Yes.
But there is one condition.
Oh, yes? Do you think that we might improve on a ring pull? You stingy, Scottish cheapskate.
That is nothing to what my mother called me.
But that's Molly's.
She wanted you to have it.
So, we do get our fairy tale ending.
Good night, Mr.
Laird.
Good night, Mrs.
Laird.
( theme music playing )