Summary

Ruth, Mary and Elizabeth Bradshaw travel to the seaside to help Elizabeth recover. Meanwhile, the Bradshaws prepare to host Mr. Donne and his election team. Mr. Donne’s campaign is managed by Mr. Hickson, a man who openly uses bribery to win elections. Mr. Hickson strongly asserts to all of the Bradshaws, Mr. Farquhar, and Mr. Benson that it is acceptable to use unethical tactics to elect a good and holy man who will bring reform to the community. The conversation deeply troubles Mr. Benson and he decides to write a sermon about political duty. Jemima and her mother, meanwhile, relishes the opportunity to host the election committee but both are uncomfortable with Mr. Donne's attention. At one point, Jemima compares Mr. Donne to a racehorse, his animal nature too eager and just barely restrained.

Ruth unexpectedly finds out that Mr. Bradshaw is...