
In the 1830's in northern England, Riah Millican, a widow with three children, takes a job as housekeeper to a reclusive former teacher, Percival Miller. Miller makes Riah the gift of a black velvet gown, and even educates her children. But when Riah discovers the reason behind Miller's gifts, she vows to leave his house, but Miller has a hold on her, even after his death, when he leaves his house to her on the condition that she never marry. Riah's daughter, Biddy, grows up and becomes a laundress in a large house where her education keeps her from fitting in and makes her a target. But it also catches the eye of a son of the house, and with Miller's legacies, Biddy may yet find her way to happiness.
Percival Miller

Riah Millican

Biddy Millican

Paul Gallmington

Laurence Gallmington

Tol Briston

Madame Gallmington

Anthony Gallington

Grace Gallmington

Stephen Gallmington

Lucy Gallmington

Jessie Hobson
Annie Griston

Doctor Pritchard

Mr. Morgan

Fanny Briggs
Mrs. Fulton
Older Davey Millican
Younger Davey Millican
Older Johnny Millican
Younger Johnny Millican
Younger Biddy Millican
Parson Weeks
Jean Bitton
Mrs. Fitzsimmons

Thomas Froggett
Yarrow
Lodgekeeper
Florrie McNulty
Madame Arnaud
Beckett