By the Sword Divided

50min

Drama

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.

Episodes

Cast

Gather Ye Rosebuds

1. Gather Ye Rosebuds

50min

16th Oct 1983

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

2. This War Without an Enemy

50min

23rd Oct 1983

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

3. The Sound of Drums

50min

30th Oct 1983

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

4. A Silver Moon

50min

6th Nov 1983

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

5. The Edge of the Sword

50min

13th Nov 1983

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

6. Outrageous Fortune

50min

20th Nov 1983

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

7. A Sea of Dangers

50min

27th Nov 1983

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

8. Ring of Fire

50min

4th Dec 1983

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

9. Ashes to Ashes

50min

11th Dec 1983

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

10. Not Peace But a Sword

50min

18th Dec 1983

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.

First air date

16th Oct 1983

Last air date

10th Mar 1985

Status

Ended

Type

Scripted

Original language

en

Networks