January 1936. Barbara and Twomey go to a party where she meets an old friend. At home, the King's sudden illness and death throw the household into turmoil. But it leads to an important discovery about Henry.

Sophia returns from boarding school in a rebellious frame of mind. The Duke's inability to accept that tennis in a heatwave is not wise at his age is causing some concern. Barbara's friendships with Lillian and Twomey are of great comfort to her. But her relationship with Twomey develops an unforeseen complication.

The Duke is recovered now, but clearly an old man. Lord Somerville seems incapable of facing up to his impending responsibilities. Meanwhile Barbara has problems with her father of quite a different kind.