****SYNOPSIS****
ACT 1
The Governess travels to the English countryside with apprehension, but when her young charges, Miles and Flora, and the housekeeper, Mrs. Grose, welcome her to Bly, she feels reassured about her decision to accept the job. Meanwhile, Mrs. Grose gives the Governess a letter that Miles has been expelled from school. The two women assume school officials are mistaken, so the Governess resolves not to disturb the children’s guardian. The Governess strolls the grounds of Bly, enjoying her idyllic life despite the occasional unexplained noises in the dark halls of the estate. Suddenly, she is startled at the sight of a man standing on the tower. Later, as the Governess dismisses Flora and Miles from play, she sees the man again looking at her through a window. She describes him to Mrs. Grose, who identifies him as Peter Quint, the master’s former valet. Mrs. Grose further tells of his strange influence on the children; his involvement with Miss Jessel, the former governess, who subsequently died; and his own mysterious, untimely death. The Governess vows to protect the children, who are beginning to concern her with their own secretive attitudes. During their lessons, Miles even sings a suspicious, plaintive rhyme. Later, as the Governess relaxes by the lake, Flora continues her geography lessons and plays with her doll. When the Governess sees Miss Jessel, she hurries Flora away. At night, Peter Quint and Miss Jessel lure the children outside. The ghosts disappear as the Governess and Mrs. Grose arrive. When the Governess challenges Miles, he morbidly says, “You see, I am bad”.
