When Dr Andrew Roundhead and his houseman, Ransome, moved into their new home, neither anticipated the upheaval that was about to occur in their placidly pleasant, well-ordered life. A family crisis found them suddenly with a baby and two small children to care for, and they eagerly welcomed the offer of assistance given by Julie Tremble, one of their friendly but very noisy neighbours. Beautiful Dr Eleanor Tarpin was dismayed; it upset her plans and the doctor seemed completely changed—but for him it was a revelation. Even staid, taciturn Ransome was happier as a result.