Paul has joined up. Shallowford is now a convalescent home and very crowded. John Rudd suggests that Claire should move out. Elinor Codsall has a German POW to help.
The valley has its first conscientious objector and most of the locals don't approve. Sydney Codsall, now a solicitor, visits Paul and tries to involve him in a dubious deal.
The Great War hits the valley. Will Codsall is the first man to be called up. The war fever spreads quickly, taking everyone in its wake even John Rudd.
With Grace gone, Claire becomes indispensable to Paul and when Smut Potter plays a dangerous game, Claire is there to help. Lloyd George speaks in the valley.
Paul has achieved his aim - Shallowford House is his. Now he must learn his job of being squire. John Rudd is a help and so, in different ways, are Claire Derwent and Grace Lovell.