When Olivia Matthews observes her brother-in-law, Miles, Earl of Langley, in an intimate embrace with another woman, she's furious. She may be naive bluestocking, unfamiliar with the ways of men, but Miles's behavior infuriates her sensibilities. She feels her sister Clara's betrayal keenly. Guessing at the source of Olivia's apparent vexation, Clara explains that she is not only aware, but has encouraged Miles's philandering. In fact, she has pushed him unwillingly into the arms of another! Clara confides to Olivia about her serious illness since the birth of her baby girl. And she makes a shocking dying wish for Olivia's future....