The New Man (Upstairs, Downstairs)

For the 1912 sculpture by Otto Freundlich, see Der Neue Mensch.

"The New Man"
'Upstairs, Downstairs' episode
Episode no.	Season 2 Episode 1
Directed by	Raymond Menmuir
Written by	Rosemary Anne Sisson
Original air date	21 October 1972

The New Man was the first episode of the second series of the British television series, Upstairs, Downstairs. The episode is set in the summer of 1908.

Cast

Guest cast

• Colin Cunningham (Milkman)
• Bill Burridge (Muffin Man)
• Lilian Padmore (Nanny)
• Joanna Robbins (Maid)
• Andrew Pitcher
• Lori Portugal (Children)

Plot

Without consulting her daughter, Lady Marjorie has engaged a house cook for Elizabeth and her new husband, the effete show-off and moderately famous (but not financially successful) poet Lawrence. On a flight of fancy, Lawrence insists on engaging a valet, rather than the more economical alternative of a mere boot-boy. Despite not being consulted, and not being given a chance to manage the household budget, Elizabeth has to bear the cost out of her moderate dowry.

Thomas Watkins applies for the job as valet, and is engaged to start after a superficial interview by Lawrence, whom he quickly assesses as a complete pushover.

In the new Kirbridge residence, Thomas makes advances towards Rose, who is flattered, and she almost succumbs, but Elizabeth discovers the two flirting.

References

• Updown.org.uk - Upstairs, Downstairs Fansite
• oocities.com/TelevisionCity - Upstairs, Downstairs Episode Guide