The van Rhijn staff question their employment. Jack's patent is approved. Peggy wins for local schools, ponders leaving NY Globe. Marian reveals feelings to Dashiell. Bertha and Mrs. Astor make final opera war maneuvers.
A wide-eyed young scion of a conservative family embarks on a mission to infiltrate the wealthy neighboring clan dominated by ruthless railroad tycoon George Russell, his rakish son, Larry, and his ambitious wife, Bertha.
Bertha receives discouraging news from the Met, while Ada fears that her sister will disapprove of her meetings with Mr Forte and asks Marian to cover for her.