Vera is out of prison. High on drugs given by her psychiatrist - she caused a sensation on HMS Pride of Cleveland with a combination of nudity, soprano decibels and an unprintable offer to the ship's boson. Now resident at Sheepdippers, she's struggling to cope with her temperamental children, the mountain of dirty nappies, Bohemian house guests and a flock of sheep.

Irene - having sold her own house - is now resident at Vera's old house, where she's enjoying village life and a new interest in Tarot. Vera isn't inspired by Irene's idea that they might set off round the world together, despite a certain weariness at the estate management at the farm. And how would baby Sabrina manage without her?

Irene has discovered the delights of email, which she uses to reveal that the threatened bypass has been rerouted and will now pass through Vera's lounge. Spooky incidents lead Irene to wonder whether the house may be haunted?

To Irene's surprise, Vera proves a dab hand at computing: if the house is haunted then maybe it's just as well if they build a bypass through it. But it's very sad to think of her old house being bulldozed. Very sad indeed. Better have another gin and tonic - then she'll feel better.