Don’t quite understand what you mean by “marital contretemps” in this case?
Anyway, the question where was Henry in the 1881 census?
Henry's full name was Henry Thomas Vinyard (as stated in one of his sons 2nd marriage); hence, I believe the Thomas Vinyard stated in the 1881 census was Henry. The age matches exactly (40 years), and he only had one other brother, William. Why was he not with his wife in the 1881 census, but at his mothers (Maria) home address at the Eagle Tavern? There was a number of offenses Henry committed around the time (noted in the court/police book), would this be the reason, together with the use of Thomas instead of Henry.
Henry Vinyard had 13 children, 6 sons (including a Charles born 1872, marring Emmaline Elizabeth Hogg in Ipswich in 1897) and 7 daughters, all born in Ipswich between 1862 to 1884. Henry's brother, William had 2 children, again born in Ipswich.
Much more info if required.
Regards