Alistair recognises how sick Darrell is.

Radio Times: Joe is optimistic. Meanwhile, Darrell is not sure he can cope alone.

Characters: Alistair, Darrell, Eddie, Jill, Joe, Ruth

• On her way to Brookfield, on foot, Jill declines the offer of a lift from Joe and Eddie. They are on their way to give Bartleby his first outing since Joe’s fall and Joe is in high spirits.
• Darrell is sharpening up his tools ready for his temporary job. Good news! Alistair has had a call from a hostel in Felpersham; they have a bed for him. Alistair is free so rather than risk losing it, he suggests that Darrell moves there today. Shula and Dan are away for Reg’s funeral.
• Jill’s mission to Brookfield is to supervise Stir up Sunday which the grandchildren still enjoy. Ruth is getting ready for Budapest in two weeks; it will be great for her and David but she wonders about a family party as well, a surprise for David. Jill swings into top gear and already the party is expanding to embrace the wider Archer clan, plus friends, and possibly at Lower Loxley.
• Joe is determined to do up Bartleby’s straps on his own but he can’t; he has to let Eddie help, also with the driving. His mood is not so buoyant now. They meet Jill again as Ruth is dropping her off and she well understands Joe’s disappointment about not being able to drive himself.
• When they reach the hostel Darrell panics; he needs time to compose himself before going in. Alistair assures him that if he relaxes and takes his time, he will be fine. But he is not fine. Confused, he wanders into the road and is nearly killed. Alistair realises that he can’t leave Darrell in this state. Back into the car – let’s go home.