In which the young and observant Isabel confides in her astute uncle the delicate matter of a marriage proposal, while contending with the complex emotions stirred by an American suitor whose earnest attentions both trouble and intrigue her. Meanwhile, the spirited Miss Stackpole endeavours to enlist the aid of Ralph Touchett in arranging a meeting with this persistent admirer, as she seeks to preserve Isabel’s bright ideals amid the subtle transformations wrought by European society.