Darius declines. Edwin now owns the print works, the rest is split between the two sisters. Time passes, and Janet turns up for a visit with a little boy: Hilda's son, George Edwin Cannon.
The family is concerned about Darius. The doctor has advised he not work. Reluctantly, he hands over the keys to the works to Edwin, and finally cedes authority for Edwin to write the cheques and run the business.
The year is 1875. Edwin Clayhanger is turned 16 and it's his last day at school. He wants to be an architect. His father - the autocratic printer - has other ideas for his future.
Hilda is returned from London. She would like to see around a print works. After letting the hint go, as usual, Edwin builds up his confidence to invite her round.
It's 1887, and 50 years since Queen Victoria came to the throne, the Golden Jubilee. Darius is declining fast, and he has started to rant abusively. Edwin finally stands up to him.
Edwin is off to Brighton, where he finds Hilda with the bailiffs in. He helps her out, and she tells him the truth about her husband. Back home, Edwin and young George Edwin spend some time together before he goes home.
Edwin and Hilda are deeply in love, but Hilda cannot bear to keep her secret from him. She returns to Brighton to care for Sarah, who is ill. Edwin discovers from Janet that Hilda is married to George. But more news is yet to reach him.
Edwin and Hilda are married in London, with Charlie as witness. To prevent local folk from spreading malicious gossip, they invite several local associates to a tea at the house.
Edwin begins architectural drawings, but his domineering father puts him in the print shop immediately. Darius obtains a new press and installs it in the second floor of the print works.
As Mr Orgreaves is recovering from influenza, young George, already ill from the same fever, arrives on the train from London without his mother, Hilda. Hilda is telegrammed to come up, and she brings Charlie Orgreave, a GP, with her.