Winifred and her profligate husband Monty must appeal to James to ease Monty’s debts, as Winifred gives birth to her son, Val. The accidental death of Young Jo’s first wife allows Jo and Helene to legally marry. Helene gives birth to the third generation of Jolyon Forsytes, nicknamed Jolly, while Old Jo assumes authority over June. Meanwhile, Soames methodically and relentlessly pursues an unwilling Irene, who finally accepts his proposal, but with one condition: that he release her from the marriage if they are unhappy. Their wedding night sets the stage for despair ahead.