Despite floods, Squire Faggus visits Plover's Barrows, and finds Lorna's necklace tremendously valuable. Jeremy Stickles makes his way there afterwards, chased by three murderous Doones.

Lorna and Gwenny are rescued by John from the Doones, despite the blizzard. The Ridds receive Lorna into their home, and spring comes, with threat of flood.

A fierce blizzard endangers all the livestock, and separates John and Lorna. His bookworm sister suggests snowshoes and sled, which bring him to Lorna and Gwenny, with chance of escape from starvation or forced marriage.

Lorna summons John Ridd for a difficult talk with her dying grandfather, patriarch of the Doones. After his funeral, perilous winter weather sets in.

John Ridd learns of plans to raid the outlaw Doones, risking Lorna's safety. Tom Faggus wins pardon for highway robbery, but a posse plans to shoot him on his way home.

John Fry neglects his farm work to help Jeremy Stickles, much to John Ridd's annoyance. John Ridd narrowly escapes murder by Doones pursuing Jeremy Stickles, who John saves from ambush.

John, desperate to hear from Lorna, makes his will and scouts Glen Doone. At risk of his life, he finds Lorna, meets Gwenny, and new signals are set.

Relationships clarify, as Mrs. Ridd learns of Annie's commitment to Tom Faggus, and John's to Lorna. Ruth's feelings are hurt, Lorna gives John a ring, and communication stops.

John has no idea why he can't see Lorna until Betty Muxworthy makes him help feed the pigs. Thanks to Betty's hint, he and Lorna reach an understanding.

Mysteries abound: an unidentified intruder, Uncle Ben visits without stating his purpose, and John Fry sees what he takes for a ghost when spying on Uncle Ben.