1645: Arnescote Castle, home to the mid-seventeenth century Lacey family, is now in the hands of Parliamentarian John Fletcher and his wife Anne.

1649: The trial and execution of Charles I seems to have put an end to the Royalist cause.

1649: The Fletchers receive Oliver Cromwell at Arnescote, unaware of the dangers involved.

1650: Henry Snelling, a witch-finder, arrives at Arnescote Castle and spreads suspicion and distrust that leads to strained relations between John and Anne.

1651: King Charles II, defeated at the Battle of Worcester, seeks sanctuary at Arnescote and is treated kindly, before attempting to escape into exile.

1653: Arnescote's 'singing boy' Hugh Brandon discovers his true identity and is horrified to discover who his birth mother is.

1655: Sir Thomas Lacey is involved in an uprising plot to recapture Arnescote Castle. Sir Austin Fletcher stands firm.

1657: Martin Fletcher is caught brawling with the village boys and Anne is summoned to London by her husband, John, to discuss his suspicions.

1658: Cromwell is on his deathbed. Tom Lacey meets with his twin, Anne, to discuss her affair with Horton and finally proposes to Frances.