The outlaws joke is Ann's merit.
About Percy...I had my doubts, I think he could be seen as a person who confused acting "ethically" with being a "good boy"(Stick to the letter of the law, being always at the statu quo side, back up any authority in a jerachical way, etc...most as the teacher's pet). I think he is starving for attention and care. My hopes are that Penelope shake his basis and at least he show his best for her.