While Karl is away, his grandsons take a dangerous trip to a trapper's cabin after hearing that the man has a watch just like the one worn by their still-missing father. At Ritter's Cove preparations are in progress for a party to celebrate the reunion of the Ritters. Although Tim will require therapy for his injured right arm, treatment is delayed so that he can be on hand for Karl. The man often referred to as Karl's son and the boys' father finally makes an appearance. Despite Tim Ritter's disappearance after his plane crash, his family has never given up hope. The boys are mighty glad to be re-united with their father. So is Karl, who is holidaying in Germany. According to Tim, he was captured and locked up by an escapee from a mental institution because the man, an ex-soldier who fought in Vietnam, was afraid that he would tell the authorities about his secret hiding place.

Kate's new friends Janet and Murray Webb are attempting to make a new life for themselves in the trackless wilderness north of Ritter's Cove. However, the approaching birth of their first child brings a focus to Murray's problem in adjusting to the challenge of the bush.