Miss Ellie's tumor is completely removed along with her breast, but she falls into a depression, fearing losing Jock. Lucy can't handle Ellie's operation and avoids her. J.R. reveals his plan for dealing with Cliff.

The drilling in Asia run into serious trouble because of a typhoon and the banks demand their loan back. The Ewings are shocked to learn J.R. has mortgaged Southfork. However, the ranch has substantial oil reserves below. Will Miss Ellie allow drilling on Southfork to save Ewing Oil?