Poldark Recap Series 2 Episode 8 Tin

Image from Poldark, streamed via iFlix

Director: Charles Palmer
Writer: Debbie Horsfield
Original Air Date: 23 October 2016

Once, Elizabeth told Ross that she and Francis were alike in many ways. This episode proved that Elizabeth and Ross were alike in at least one way, too. When Elizabeth decided to marry George Warleggan, she told herself and Ross that she was doing it for her son. When Ross sh-gged Elizabeth whilst trying to convince her not to go through with the wedding, he later told Demelza he had no choice. These two former, and I suppose present, lovers both have a capacity for self deception. Elizabeth, you can choose not to marry the most evil man in Cornwall and still provide a good future for your son. Ross, you can choose to remain faithful to the wife who has only ever helped and loved you. 

As you can imagine, that first paragraph was not my initial reaction to this episode. The language in my notes was a lot more colourful. I have calmed down, however, and chose to write a less angry recap. See? I exercised my right to choose. Ross, how about you do that some time?

What appeared to be a large lode of tin was found in Wheal Grace. Ross had no more capital to sink into the mine, but Captain Henshawe had 100 pounds he was willing to part with to keep the mine in coal for a month. With funds being so tight, Ross agreed not to purchase timber, a cost cutting measure at the expense of safety, and used all the funds instead of coal. It ended in an accident that cost two lives and seriously injured five more. George Warleggan gleefully announced what happened at Trenwith, after which Elizabeth almost immediately accepted his proposal of marriage.

I am really, really trying to not judge you, Elizabeth.

Image from Poldark, streamed via iFlix

Ross had given up on Wheal Grace. He also was forced to confess to Demelza that they no longer had shares at Wheal Leisure. Demelza tried to stop Ross from going to Trenwith the night he received Elizabeth's letter about her impending marriage, but Ross of course insisted. When he returned home the next morning, Demelza hit him and he fell to the ground.

When there already is a set story to follow, I suppose it is inevitable that there is an episode like this that is, frustratingly, mostly without joy. Thank goodness the powers that be added young Jack Blamey, who was all youthful exuberance. One of the characters, at least, could manage untroubled smiles.

Strays

■ Ross had the case against him dismissed when he agreed to accept Trencrom's help. Witnesses were produced willing to swear he was at St. Ives on the night in question.

■ Dwight did not even bother to mount a defence and paid a fine of 50 pounds.

■ Dwight has been mulling over joining the Navy. Caroline returned all his letters and asked him not to write to her again.

■ Elizabeth's mother had a stroke and needed constant care. George provided a maid and a nurse. Elizabeth was also shown to be overwhelmed by the business decisions she needed to make.

■ George hired peasants to enter Elizabeth's yard and prospect for tin there, then rode in and shooed them away. 

■ George had already ordered his wedding clothes before Elizabeth even agreed to the marriage.

■ Aunt Agatha repeatedly warned Elizabeth about George.

■ Verity is pregnant. Yay for some good news!

■ Captain McNeal was back pursuing Demelza. He insinuated that he knew Ross was in the house that night of the ambush, that he could have chosen to have the house watched, but did not out of his regard for Demelza.