There is much to celebrate as the Wheal Leisure mine opens for business, and local couples give birth. Amidst the high spirits, rumors fly of a scandalous relationship between Ross and Demelza. When things take a dark turn, Ross must fight to save his friend, sparring with severe local judge Reverend Halse (Robin Ellis). A visitor from Demelza’s past prompts Ross and Demelza to make a rash decision, and Ross is soon caught between what he knows to be right and what society dictates.