The Prime Minister calls an election; Demelza feels trapped; Sam and Drake are accused of murder.

The Prime Minister calls an election and uncertainty grips the country. Ross watches Cornwall suffer under the power of Truro’s MP, George Warleggan, while Demelza remains caught between Ross and a lovesick Hugh. The Enyses contemplate having a child and Elizabeth seeks the same to secure her marriage. Morwenna uses Osborne’s affair with her sister Rowella to keep the reverend’s advances at bay. Sam and Drake are blamed for a murder, and Ross finds himself powerless to save his brothers-in-law.