It's 1946 and the dawn of a post-war period of hope and expectation. However, the reality of John Finlay's homecoming is harshly different. The medical practice is run-down, the small town politics continue and his fiancé is curiously absent.

Although Dr. Cameron is free to retire there is an atmosphere of tension about his departure from Arden House. Working as a GP again Dr. Finlay finds that health care for the poor hasn't improved, leading in one case to tragic consequences.

What exactly is Sergeant Forbes' vendetta against the Hendersons at Dawes Farm? The consequences draw Dr. Finlay and Dr. Cameron into a bitter conflict and more than they bargained for.

When Dr. Neil visits Mary Thomson on a housecall he becomes concerned as to why previous medical tests have failed to reveal her apparent illness. He becomes more interested in her treatment not aware that the patient's home life might be at the root of the problem. Meanwhile a smallpox scare causes an emergency vaccination programme to be hastily arranged.

Dr. Cameron's work at the German POW camp brings him into political conflict with one of the prisoners. Janet becomes concerned for Dr. Finlay's career at his apparent fondness toward Anne Stewart. Not only is she married, she is also patient of the practice.

Much to Dr. Neil's surprise a famous singing star turns up unexpectedly at the Arden House surgery for a repeat prescription. But why? A mystery unfolds as to the exact nature of her illness. Dr. Finlay is still hurt following the end of his "affair" and is on the brink of considering a new life elsewhere.