Moth and Rust; Together with Geoffrey's Wife and The Pitfall

In a sleepy Essex parish at the turn of the twentieth century, a modest congregation gathers for a sermon on “moth and rust,” the biblical warning against placing trust in earthly riches. The vicar, earnest yet long‑winded, delivers his message while the pews fill with a mix of humble farmers, a proud old matriarch, and a few curious visitors. Their lives are tied to the rhythms of the land, modest savings, and the quiet ambitions of a small community that clings to tradition.

Among the strangers are two striking young women, each embodying a different kind of allure. One, graceful and polished, carries the air of a seasoned society lady; the other, Janet, is a strikingly beautiful but unrefined figure who captures the attention of everyone, even the stern Mrs. Trefusis. Their presence sparks whispered speculation and subtle rivalry, hinting at deeper entanglements that will test loyalties and reveal hidden desires within the tightly knit village.