The spring of 1905 saw the Schlegel family drawn into the orbit of the Wilcocks, a connection forged through Helen Schlegel’s affection for Paul Wilcox. Meanwhile, Helen’s elder sister, Margaret, found herself embroiled in a complicated sit…

A family bereavement throws the Wilcoxes into turmoil, while the Schlegels confront a precarious destiny upon losing their home to eviction.

As Margaret sought a new dwelling, Henry presented her with a proposal of marriage. Meanwhile, Helen was deeply distressed by news that Leonard Bast stood on the precipice of ruin, having heeded the counsel of the Schlegels.

Margaret hesitated to hold Henry accountable for offenses he’d committed long before their lives intertwined. Helen departed for Europe without a word, reappearing only when sorrow descended.