Gracie has left the Imperial Palace. Sir Henry Savott has put forward his merger proposition to Evelyn for his consideration. Violet Powler is about to join the staff as a floor housekeeper.

Merger terms have been agreed and Sir Henry is taking more interest in the running of the Imperial Palace. Violet has been appointed Head Housekeeper.

Merger discussions took Evelyn to Paris where he met Gracie and they had an affair. Ceria proposed to Violet and was refused and disappeared. News of this caused Evelyn to return, leaving Gracie in Paris.