The Ball at the Warleggans (You are invited!)

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The Ball at the Warleggans (You are invited!)

July 24, 2015 by Robin Ellis

Balls and the Reverend Dr Halse make an odd conjunction–yet there it is; the invitation, propped up on the mantle for all the world to see.

“The Reverend Dr Halse…

(’twas but he, Mrs Halse having died of shock several years previously, while attending the first assizes of the newly elevated Reverend and seeing him in his new judicial wig).

George and Carey Warleggan respectfully request the honour of your presence at the Warleggan Ball, Tuesday the…. “

One doesn’t easily imagine the grumpy bench sitter tripping off to dance the light fantastic with the crème de la crème of Cornish society!

Rather one pictures him, as he is now, deep in his throne-like armchair at Halse Hall, a beautifully crafted balloon brandy glass cupped in his mean and boney hands, re-running recent trials over which he presided–chiding himself on his leniency.

Indeed, the idea of gracing Hugh Bodruggan’s pile with his presence at the opening Hunt Ball of the season, sends such self-righteous shiver down his spine, he nearly spills the vintage brandy.

The stories of debauchery!

Sir Hugh slavering over young innocent girls. How is one supposed to maintain standards of decency and order when those that should know better are too drunk to give a damn?

(“Good subject for my sermon, Sunday next.”)

The Warleggans, however–upstarts though they certainly are–(nouveax riche as the French so aptly call them) are a different kettle of fish.

They are proving worthy additions to Society–and they know how to throw a party.

The Warleggan Ball is now the event of the year in the social calendar of Cornwall.

A not-to-be missed, must-be-seen-at festivity–with a table of delicacies unrivalled in the whole of the South West.

Fine card room to boot!

It is rumored that an invitation has been sent to that renegade Ross Poldark (traitor to his class!) and his wife.

Married his parlour maid indeed!

It’s against the natural order. It offends! It is dangerous!

“I have a duty to see for myself this parvenue, this sally-come-lately, this abomination–what’s her name? Demelza?”

“I shall go!”

This decision taken, he snoozes off, letting the brandy glass slip through his fingers and upend itself, spilling the precious liquid into his lap–soaking his trousers to the flesh!

You too are invited to attend the Warleggan Ball in the 6th episode of POLDARK–Sunday (26th July) on PBS’ Masterpiece!

A barely audible mumble from the armchair:

“Evensong would be a wiser choice.”

Posted in other sides to this life | Tagged demelza., dr halse, Poldark, reverend, ross poldark, warleggan | 47 Comments

47 Responses

on July 24, 2015 at 9:58 am | Reply Ros Wilson

This is a great description of the Rev Halse Robin and you are right grumpy just about covers it !! As I’m in the UK I have seen ‘grump’ Halse in action. Superbly played but I have a greater concern and I am ready to jump into action if I need to.
What is it with you and the wives of your alter egos and the condition of their hearts. Mrs Halse dies of shock at the vision of Grump in his wig…… probably heart failure and Florece Dowell,wife of John Dowell suffers heart strain in a storm at sea.
If any of the authorities make this same connection I am ready with my campaign to free ‘The Poldark One’ !! Just let me know. Ros
- on July 24, 2015 at 10:17 am | Reply Robin Ellis
  
  Well spotted, Ros and very funny! I’m not showing this comment to Meredith!
on July 24, 2015 at 12:05 pm | Reply cylb

I would say that before Mrs. Halse’s demise she was rarely seen or heard from if the Reverend Halse had anything to say about it and I’m sure he did as his wife cautiously moved around her stately and learned husband.

I do accept the invitation to the Warleggan Ball to get a look at this upstart known as Poldark and his lowly wife, Demelza.

I am sure Reverend Halse will have something to say about this mix of classes, too, and Reverend Halse will not mince words about it either!

(And you play him perfectly!!!)
on July 24, 2015 at 12:10 pm | Reply Elizabeth Klug

Looking forward to seeing you in action again. I’ve said it before: you are the best thing about this remake!!
on July 24, 2015 at 12:22 pm | Reply Judy Spagnola

Thank you for the invite. Will be there
on July 24, 2015 at 1:16 pm | Reply Sue Lonigan

I so enjoy your blog and thank you for writing it. What a talent you have for writing and for sharing your thoughts and very pleasant personality!! You are extraordinarily gifted!!

You are superb as Rev Halse. Love the facial expressions! And, for me, you will always be Poldark!! The original series has provided me lots of entertainment and fun and your participation in the new series is brilliant.

I’m also a Type 2 diabetic and appreciate how much you do to show how live can continue to be lived enthusiastically and well.

Please keep the fun and your “take” on things coming.
- on July 24, 2015 at 2:05 pm | Reply Robin Ellis
  
  Thanks, Sue for your kind comments and good to hear how well you are living with Type 2.
on July 24, 2015 at 1:44 pm | Reply Victoria

I’m just an unlearned rebel from the Colonies but I thank you your Honor, Reverend Dr Halse for the the invitation to the Warleggan gig, I mean jig…sorry upperclass ball. Frantically looking now for the appropriate gown, may need a few dance and etiquette lessons too. Hope I can fit them in before Sunday. Reverend sir, are we allowed to dance on Sunday? Do the Warleggans know that you’re inviting a whole slew of rabble to there fancy Soirée?
- on July 24, 2015 at 3:02 pm | Reply Robin Ellis
  
  See you there, Victoria! Looking forward to seeing the look on George and Carey’s faces, when you all turn up!
on July 24, 2015 at 2:43 pm | Reply Fran Shaw

I so agree with Sue!! I received this blog whilst we were on the way to visit our daughter – (in the South oh dear- that ‘oh dear’ refers to the South- not my daughter!) and it lifted the journey no end! You have a wonderful writing style Robin and you will always be Ross to me. But of course, your Rev Halse is without fault !!
Many thanks Robin,for the joy you have brought and continue to provide!!
Fran Shaw
- on July 24, 2015 at 3:00 pm | Reply Robin Ellis
  
  Thanks, Fran. Very kind.
on July 24, 2015 at 4:35 pm | Reply Sally z

Must admit was a bit confused with your blog then remembered that the series is being shown in the USA, though I continually watch the series over and over
on July 24, 2015 at 4:53 pm | Reply Chris Lupone

You really threw yourself into your new role, eh? …nice piece, Robin.
- on July 24, 2015 at 5:42 pm | Reply Robin Ellis
  
  Thanks, Chris–hope you are recovering from the mandolin attack!
on July 24, 2015 at 4:58 pm | Reply Genie Pohl

Thank you for the invite.
I hope Your Honor, since you are a stickler for the law, that you can spot anyone who may be cheating at cards!
- on July 24, 2015 at 5:41 pm | Reply Robin Ellis
  
  AAH!
on July 24, 2015 at 5:05 pm | Reply Josie

I loved the original Poldark with you playing Ross. And I read all the Graham books, too. Since “Outlander,” I think the new series suffers from a blandness. A naked man’s chest doesn’t convey much. I wish BBC had simply reshown your series.

Thanks for the invitation, and wish I were in Cornwall.
on July 24, 2015 at 5:32 pm | Reply Charlotte Huffman

My ribbons, proper appointed new ball gown and fitting ball slippers are at the ready. A little vile of smelling salts will be tucked away in case the vapors come upon me due to all the anticipated excitement. I look forward to being in your presence and will drink up every delicious moment. Cheers!
Charlotte Huffman
- on July 24, 2015 at 5:40 pm | Reply Robin Ellis
  
  Look forward to meeting you, Charlotte!
on July 24, 2015 at 9:51 pm | Reply Dianne P

Ha!! Perhaps you should take up the novels where Winston left off, Robin! I’m sure you’d do them justice!
- on July 25, 2015 at 6:22 am | Reply Robin Ellis
  
  That would be presumptuous, Dianne!
on July 25, 2015 at 7:37 am | Reply mailjanetbradley

I am disappointed that you didn’t invite me to the Warleggan ball!!! Guess we shall have to dance in the Tarn!
- on July 25, 2015 at 11:29 am | Reply Robin Ellis
  
  Sorry, Janet–never occurred to me you’d be willing to make the journey!
on July 25, 2015 at 10:50 am | Reply bigmo

Robin,love this post, was wondering where it was going! Then i remembered…lol Just a wee thought,Did they have Whisky in them days? ,and it would be nice for all your Fans if you did this?” An Evening with Robin Ellis” Be a sellout for sure. Cheers Maurice in Glasgow.
- on July 25, 2015 at 11:31 am | Reply Robin Ellis
  
  You are closer to the source to find out, Maurice!
on July 25, 2015 at 2:20 pm | Reply barb

can’t wait !
on July 26, 2015 at 1:52 am | Reply altamisal

I’m enjoying the remake but watching last week, it occurred to me what I felt was lacking in it, compared to the previous one. Ross as played by you, Robin, was a spicier version–more unpredictable/untamable. He drove Demelza nuts, even as she remained nuts about him. He was very much his own person–he was loving, but would never lose himself in a relationship. To me anyway, Ross as played by you is a more interesting and exciting character with a hint of danger, and Demelza as played by Angharad Rees was fully his match. It wasn’t all sweetness and light between those two, but it was a true love relationship. However, it is still early days with this new version, and we shall see how it develops. 🙂
- on July 26, 2015 at 8:01 am | Reply Robin Ellis
  
  Thank you, Jenifer, for that lovely comment. Much appreciated
on July 27, 2015 at 2:48 am | Reply Cheryl Burbank

Thank you, my lud – I was there, & twas fascinating. You – er I mean – Rev
Halse was as rude as expected. Thank you for the invite – I wouldn’t have missed it for the world.
- on July 27, 2015 at 6:51 am | Reply Robin Ellis
  
  Excellent, Cheryl. Excuse brevity–I am in recovery mode from the rudery of wretch Poldark.
on July 27, 2015 at 3:36 am | Reply Mary

I’ve been enjoying the new adaptation, and introducing friends who never saw the first to it and the novels. Watching your portrayal of Halse is hard, as I admit I want to see you in the same mold as Ross. Even your character’s voice is markedly different sounding to me. I admit to a preference to this new Sir Hugh, by comparison the old one seemed very pantomine. I was taken aback by how they’ve rewritten Dwight Enys given the claim was they’d be more faithful to the novels. I’m wondering what they’ll do with Caroline, she’ll always be Judy Geeson to me. But then again, as much as I loved Norma Streader’s Verity, Ruby Bentall is wonderful in the role. I even enjoy the new Jud & Prudie. I’m not happy with the new George Warleggan, he looks like too much of a fop… I was a fan of Warren Clarke’s Andy Dalziel, in Dalziel and Pascoe, but his casting as Charles seemed a bit odd. I was sad when I read of his death. One thing I’ve felt is the script writers seem to be kind of writing some of the I guess you call them, gentry, as caricatures with the worst stereotypes of the class. I’ve reread the novels this year, and that only confirmed it for me. Francis wasn’t as weak as he’s now being portayed. Anyway, while I’m enjoying Aidan Turner and Eleanor Tomlinson as Ross and Demelza, yours and Angharad Rees are my favorites. Sorry for venting, I was hoping to see if anyone else felt the same.
- on July 27, 2015 at 6:53 am | Reply Robin Ellis
  
  Thanks Mary–interesting analysis and I’m glad to hear you are enjoying it.
on July 27, 2015 at 12:55 pm | Reply Mike

Robin, save that persona for any future BBC Dicken’s works! Well done! New series is great but liked your play in original series on the card cheating cousin!
Mike
- on July 27, 2015 at 5:00 pm | Reply Robin Ellis
  
  Thanks Mike.
on July 27, 2015 at 12:59 pm | Reply Suzanne Powers

Please understand I am from the Colonies and have been woefully out of touch! The person exclaiming with great enthusiasm to buy your audio book “Making Poldark, Memoir of a BBC/Masterpiece Theatre Actor” made me wince, too good to be true, I thought. After reading your blog I add to their enthusiasm, brilliant! The man who has been my hunks desire…er…very desirable actor has talent beyond what I imagined! My great hope is I will be able to come to the ball and meet you Dr. Halse. At the first convenience I will be on a packet leaving Boston Harbor. I greatly look forward to reading your richly descriptive blog and book.
- on July 27, 2015 at 5:03 pm | Reply Robin Ellis
  
  Thanks for this, Suzanne–hope you made it to the Ball! Being of a certain age and having had an unpleasant encounter, I left early…
on July 28, 2015 at 1:57 am | Reply Marla

Ros and Robin,

After seeing Robin in “The Good Soldier,” I bought a copy of the book and read it. If I remember correctly Florence Dowell feigned a heart condition to avoid consummating her marriage. It seems that only Mrs. Halse had a heart condition.

Meredith should rest easy.
on July 28, 2015 at 2:45 am | Reply Janet

Strong chemistry between you and Aiden Robin. Demelza needs to remind Ross that the class division is not black and white although the loss of Jim Carter has wunded him.It is this wounding which makes the scene with your character memorable. It is a standoff based on so many things..memorable.and moving.
- on July 28, 2015 at 5:44 am | Reply Robin Ellis
  
  Thanks, Janet.
on July 28, 2015 at 4:29 am | Reply Donna

I attended the ball and very much enjoyed it. Delmelza was pretty in that new dress. I noticed that all the men were wearing wigs, except Ross. And now that the “cheat” has been exposed, I’m wondering if Francis shouldn’t get his holdings back.
on July 28, 2015 at 2:21 pm | Reply elaineward

Thanks for the invite your honour we were there first,and as for that rogue Ross
Poldark and his doxy wife you will have to cast your eye very carefully over her.
but beware of the card sharp.
I am in the middle of hearing your audio book Making Poldark, it’s lovely to hear your voice speaking the words I have so often read,and it gives full credit to all involved,You have a wonderful way with the written and spoken word Robin
Dr Halse was a man of his time your were
- on July 28, 2015 at 8:19 pm | Reply Robin Ellis
  
  Thanks Elaine and thanks for investing in the audio version.
on July 29, 2015 at 3:10 pm | Reply ellenandjim

It’s interesting that the Rev Halse is in the second chapter of Ross Poldark. He is the first man Ross speaks to, and we get a sort of clash about the American revolution and British colonialist war there. He is then brought forward centrally (Jim’s trial and now this scene at the ball). He is not the judge in Jeremy Poldark though, and I’m not sure he does recur actively in the later books.
on September 5, 2015 at 4:33 pm | Reply S Medley

So looking forward to Series 2 ! I have fond memories of watching the original Poldark and falling madly in love with Ross Plldark !!! The funny thing is I now look forward to seeing Aidan Turner as Ross, so aim sorry Robin, but my heart now belongs to Ross MK II. Good look with the filming starting next week.
Sue
- on September 5, 2015 at 9:48 pm | Reply Robin Ellis
  
  That’s life, Sue!
on September 6, 2015 at 4:23 am | Reply Fran Shaw

Good morning Robin,
If it’s any small consolation- ‘picturesque’ as Ross KK11 may be , Ross MK1 will always have my heart😉

Fran Shaw
- on September 6, 2015 at 7:41 am | Reply Robin Ellis
  
  Thanks, Fran!