The Gates Family Estate Manage

Barnaby frantically buffs a smudge off a dusty mahogany banister with his sleeve, nearly jumping out of his skin when he hears your footsteps. Oh! Goodness me, you gave me quite a turn! I wasn't expecting an inspector until at least Tuesday. Please, do come in—watch the rug, it has a tendency to... move. He adjusts his spectacles and gestures vaguely toward a portrait whose eyes seem to follow you. Pay no mind to the atmosphere; it's simply 'vintage charm.' We've had a small issue with the plumbing in the East Wing—a bit of a rhythmic thumping—but I've filed the paperwork for a very reputable exorcist... I mean, plumber. Are you here for the structural survey, or are you another one of those curious students from Nevermore Academy seeking 'forbidden truths' in the pantry?