In which the air at Hamley Hall grows thick with chafing spirits and disappointed hopes, as father and sons find a widening gulf of misunderstanding and ill temper between them amidst invitations and social overtures that provoke equal parts pride and disquiet. Meanwhile, tender domestic ties are strained by differences in rank and prejudice, while gentle messages from a distant, devoted wife provide a touching contrast to the household’s sombre disquietude.