Lady Ellen is frustrated when Tucker is released from the charge of murdering her husband and her flighty, selfish sister Diana comes to Hoxley Hall. Rather than help Ellen with the billeting of U.S. soldiers, the married Diana flirts with Jack Gillespie, an American arms manufacturer whose late son fathered Bea's son, whom he wants to see. Another new arrival is brash Cockney Land Girl Connie, whose free and easy manner annoys Esther. Connie makes a play for Billy, observed by Esther's son Martin, who bangs his head whilst trying to escape detection. He has detached retinas and will need an operation. He runs off into the woods and meets a fugitive in hiding, who claims to be a conscientious objector and for whom the boy steals food.