Francis Wolcott, agent for the mining magnate George Hearst arrives in Deadwood. Al's condition severely deteriorates from his kidney stones. Enclosed in his room and unable to speak nobody knows about the bad state he is in though, thinking he is simply ignoring them. Farnum tries to con Wolcott by lying about the contents of Hickok's letter. Alma tells Ellsworth that she plans on buying the Grand Central Hotel. Meanwhile rumors start spreading that Deadwood's gold claims might be invalid.

As a convalescing Swearengen bridles, Cochran schools Burns and Dority how best to assist his recovery. Alma is also feeling unwell, mornings. Unexpected profits at the Chez Ami lead Tolliver to an unexpected discovery about Wolcott. Merrick posts a provocative statement from Yankton on title to the claims; Bullock protects Commissioner Jarry from an angry mob, which redirects its ire. After returning a horse to Hostetler at the livery, professional go-between Samuel Fields finds a kindred spirit in Jane.