The Boffins inherit a fortune when John Harmon, the only son and heir of their old employer, apparently drowns. A death brings Eugene Wrayburn into the life of Lizzie Hexam.

Rokesmith confesses his love for Bella but is rejected. Wegg and Venus join forces in a plot to relieve Mr. Boffin of his fortune.

Headstone's increasingly alarming behavior and threats of violence towards Eugene, prompt Lizzie to disappear.

Mr. Boffin undergoes a change of character, becoming bad-tempered, insensitive and miserly. Bella is appalled by his treatment of his secretary and by the end of the episode she has left the Boffins and admitted that she loves John Rokesmith as much as he loves her -- they are married. Meanwhile, Eugene is still looking for Lizzie while Headstone follows Eugene in the hope of finding him with her.