The World of Downton Abbey Text Only

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A CARNIVAL FILMS / MASTERPIECE CO-PRODUCTION

THE WORLD OF

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Gordon Grimmett was second footman at Cliveden while it was the country home of the Astors. The many high-profile guests, including film stars, politicians and writers such as Charlie Chaplin, Gandhi, T.E. Lawrence and Winston Churchill, meant a lot of work for the staff. ‘Every morning would see us up at seven, running down to the stillroom, eventually emerging with six small morning tea trays arranged on one large butler’s tray, distributing them round the guests’ rooms, opening curtains and gently but firmly waking them. We didn’t want them slipping back to sleep again and blaming us for their having missed breakfast. Then we collected their clothes from the night before, and whipped them into the brushing-room, to sponge, brush, fold and hang them. Then we would be laying up the breakfast table, and bringing in the various dishes ... and the constant running to and fro with fresh toast.’

‘Mary is a very well-written typical eldest child in that she puts her own needs at the forefront ... She’s not as inclined to conciliate or placate. Cora is fascinated by Mary.’

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