Lord Debling is one of the many suitors looking for a wife in the latest wedding season at the ton. Sam Phillips plays the character.
Lord Debling is an eligible bachelor who is considered peculiar because of his specific interests in nature.
He only eats vegetables and cares deeply for nature, going out on voyages and research excursions to learn more about it.
His first appearance is as he’s getting off a boat, and the next time, he’s having a conversation with Penelope before Cressida ruins Penelope’s dress.
A practical match
They meet again after Penelope’s deal with Colin is exposed and this time they connect over their shared status as outcasts.
Lord Debling remarks that he doesn’t read Lady Whistledown but when he hears why Penelope was shunned, he offers comfort and praise rather than judgment.
They begin courting each other, even as Cressida Cowper’s jealousy grows since she is under immense pressure to find a husband.
Cressida and Penelope vy for his attention at a fair where the first hot air balloon is being displayed.
While Cressida and Penelope put on a show about enjoying the outdoors and everything involved, the balloon gets loose.
As it is about to hit Penelope, Lord Debling rushes to her aid. However, once the situation is under control, Cressida pretends to be hurt and grabs his attention once again.
Later that night, Penelope tells him the truth about pretending to be something that she’s not and Lord Debling is pleased with her refreshing nature.
They discuss his travels and her interests, and how they would work well together even though he would not be home for years at a time.
He begins calling on her and their union appears close to being confirmed after he asks her mother’s permission to propose.
The night of the proposal, Colin interrupts their dance and Lord Debling feels slighted. He believes that Colin and Penelope have feelings for each other, which is why he backs down.
