Olivia expresses her reservations about artist Lloyd Ellis Parker to James, but he insists that they retain him to paint their portraits. René is distraught on learning of Sarah's pregnancy and tells her he wishes she had never found him again. Carolyn confronts George about Regina, informing him of the threats she has been making about revealing James' secret. Elizabeth has lunch with Douglas Goddard but his romantic advances cause Elizabeth to withdraw. Regina tactically retreats to the Walker Farm, Olivia pleads with Anna not to tell James the truth about baby George, and Sarah and Jack have the abortionist arrested and Sarah reunites with René.

Jack has arranged for René to have his brain operation but Sarah, concerned about the risks involved refuses to give her consent. George withdraws his nomination as The Country Party candidate and attempts to face his demons regarding his strained relationship with his father. Regina hatches a plan to reinstate herself in George's esteem. Jack continues to warn Carolyn regarding Sir Richard's intentions. Elizabeth helps Sarah make a difficult decision. Meanwhile, James is still hiding away in Sydney, Gino is worried about his vine saplings, and Olivia is trying to maintain a facade on the eve of Baby George's Christening.