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.

Barbara has unwelcome time on her hands. But things change drastically when the internationally-famous Austrian film star Maria Lang comes for the weekend - with her notorious love-child, Walter.