The three linked episodes form an anthology story, influenced by the writings of M. R. James and Amicus horror movies,[2] and a Māori death-mask belonging to Gatiss.

The first tale relates the story of Joseph Bloxham, who buys and improves the Manor after capitalizing on an investment that ruined his fellow speculators.

During the ball, young Felix de Momery announces his engagement to Ruth, much to the surprise and annoyance of his grandmother and his friends, Billy and Katherine.

Recently split from his girlfriend, he finds the cosy blandness of his modern house suddenly altered by events from the distant past, and by the sinister figure of Sir Roger Widdowson.

[3] The cast included Mark Gatiss, Julian Rhind-Tutt, Ian Hallard, Philip Jackson, Lee Ingleby, Jean Marsh, Samuel Barnett, Daniela Denby-Ashe, Anna Madeley, Andy Nyman, Jennifer Higham, and illusionist Derren Brown.