By the Sword Divided

1983 - 1985

Gather Ye Rosebuds

16th October 1983

Episode 1

There is great excitement surrounding the arrival of John Fletcher at Arnescote Castle. His father and Lord Lacey have a heated discussion about the wedding dowry.

This War Without an Enemy

23rd October 1983

Episode 2

The King dramatically makes several arrests for treason in the House of Commons. While out riding Lucinda meets Prince Rupert on his way to visit Sir Martin.

The Sound of Drums

30th October 1983

Episode 3

Anne returns to the castle to collect her belongings and has a sad parting with her father. Lord Lacey is badly wounded fighting and a cousin, Susan Protheroe, arrives seeking refuge.

A Silver Moon

6th November 1983

Episode 4

Lucinda is rude to the King because of her sense of justice - she then embarks on a successful adventure posing as 'Luke' Lacey and redeems herself.

The Edge of the Sword

13th November 1983

Episode 5

Arnescote is commandeered by Captain Marsh, a Cavalry Officer for Cromwell's Parliament. Sir Martin feels let down by the King and cousin Susan betrays the family.

Outrageous Fortune

20th November 1983

Episode 6

Dick Skinner returns to Arnescote with tales of pillaging in Swinford. Tom goes there and brings his sister Anne home despite her angry protests. Lucinda receives advice from the King.

A Sea of Dangers

27th November 1983

Episode 7

Tom is anxious about the castle's security and calls for more diligence. Anne gives birth then bids a sad farewell to Arnescote. Hugh Brandon performs a 'valiant commission' for Sir Martin.

Ring of Fire

4th December 1983

Episode 8

Arnescote is surrounded and is under siege by the Roundheads. Sam Saltmarsh brings shame on his family by being a turncoat and Susan Protheroe is re-acquainted with Colonel Marsh.

Ashes to Ashes

11th December 1983

Episode 9

Sir Martin's funeral brings with it more family and political discord. Colonel Marsh is holding Arnescote's inhabitants hostage and the future of the castle is looking grim.

Not Peace But a Sword

18th December 1983

Episode 10

The Fletchers return to Arnescote as the new owners but life is not as they expected. Cousin Susan gets shocking news from Colonel Marsh. Edward has a plan to get Tom out of the Tower.

Top Cast

Lucy Aston•Tim Bentinck•Sharon Maughan

This classic period drama series follows the fortunes of the aristocratic Lacey family, living peacefully in Arnescote Castle until the onset of the English Civil War in 1640. Sir Martin Lacey, the head of the family, is steadfastly loyal to the King. However the family is torn apart when his eldest daughter Anne weds John Fletcher - son of a merchant family who support the forces of Cromwell.

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Full Cast

Lucy Aston

Tim Bentinck Image

Tim Bentinck

Sharon Maughan Image

Sharon Maughan

Peter Guinness Image

Peter Guinness

Andrew MacLachlan Image

Andrew MacLachlan

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