 After Hilda objects to Rumpole s off-color story in mixed company at a reception, the inebriated barrister walks out on his wife. He tries to stay in his offices but risks his job if Ballard discovers him. The Erskine-Browns allow him to stay with them, but Rumpole soon wears out his welcome as Hilda is not in a forgiving mood. Complications arise when Portia is assigned to prosecute one of Rumpole s clients, the owner of a garden shop who is accused of having sabotaged the brakes on his partner s car because he was having an affair with his wife.