Journalist Frank Scully is visiting old friends, Sylvia and Donald Harper, in Yorkshire and becomes involved in local matters.
Fiona Neave is the subject of gossip when she receives a large inheritance.
The Messenger's new column makes waves in Micklethorpe.
Fiona comes across some disturbing photographs and confides in Scully.
Lord Wrathdale receives a visit from his eccentric mother.
Frank learns of Fiona's parentage from Sylvia and must face some difficult choices.