In the spring of 1666, just after his 33rd birthday, Sam notes that he's 'the happiest a man can be'. He's aware that he should be working harder and enjoying himself less, but he decides he's the right age to do it - and doesn't want to wait until he's too old to appreciate it. At home it's anything but peaceful. Sam is struggling to find a suitable husband for his sister, Pauline, who will soon be regarded as an old maid. Elizabeth and the maid argue to the point where the maid walks out and goes back to her mother. And a visit from Aunty Wight, who is tormented by fear of the plague, proves very trying. Adapted by Hattie Naylor

Theme music: Gather Ye Rosebuds While Ye May, words by Robert Herrick and music by William Lawes, sung by Bethany Hughes. Lute, baroque guitar and theorbo played by David Miller. Violin and viol by Annika Gray, and recorders by Alice Baxter.

Historical consultant: Liza Picard
Sound by Catherine Robinson

A BBC/Cymru Wales production, directed by Kate McAll. Show less