George has to make an impossible decision when Tulkinghorn and Smallweed turn up the heat on his debts. Guppy's quest for information takes him back to Krook's shop, with explosive results. Jarndyce is beside himself when tragedy strikes Bleak House.

Tulkinghorn is now close to piecing together Lady Dedlock's secret. Esther struggles to come to terms with the terrible blow she has been dealt. Jarndyce agonizes over whether to keep his own feelings for Esther concealed. Lady Dedlock tells Esther something that will change her life for ever.

Esther is shattered by Lady Dedlock's revelation. Richard's obsession with the Jarndyce case has grown to worrying proportions. Guppy puts himself at risk when he gets in the way of Tulkinghorn's enquiries. And Tulkinghorn at last has cast iron proof of Lady Dedlock's guilt, and issues her with a terrible ultimatum.