The Barchester Chronicles S1E4 backdrop
The Barchester Chronicles poster

The Barchester Chronicles (1982)

S1E4 Part Four

Dec 01, 1982 Season 1 Episode 4 Drama

Proudie suggests that Harding meet with Slope to talk about possibly becoming Warden of the hospital again. But Septimus is put off—not just by Slope’s arrogant manner, but by the strict conditions Slope insists on if the appointment goes through. It’s clear Slope is using the position for his own gain. Instead of arranging a meeting with the Bishop as Harding requested, Slope claims Harding turned down the offer. He then gives the post to Mr. Quiverful, who eagerly accepts—he has fourteen children to support. Meanwhile, Slope keeps hinting to Eleanor that her father might still get the job, since he’s interested in her, or at least in the fact that she’s a wealthy widow.