A misunderstanding, a surprise visit and a stolen umbrella intertwine the lives of three families -- the Schlegels, the Wilcoxes and the Basts.

In the wake of Mrs. Wilcox's death, her family is further thrown by her final request regarding Howards End; the Schlegels face eviction; the Schlegel sisters take up the cause of Jacky Bast's husband.

Margaret receives an offer from Henry; Helen is distraught by the unfair fate of the Basts; the three families collide at a wedding; Henry's past is revealed.

Margaret refuses to punish Henry for past transgressions and resolves to uphold their engagement; Helen embarks on a trip around Europe with no explanation; she returns when she hears that Aunt Juley is sick with pneumonia.