 Virginia Hamilton, who enlisted Richard s help as Civil Lord for a government scheme a year ago, has returned to the Eaton Place in behalf of her son, Michael. He is barely 18 years old and is facing a naval court martial for cowardice during a recent action. She is seeking legal advice and Sir Geoffrey Dillon agrees to represent Michael in the proceedings against him. Meanwhile, Edward has left to visit his family, but Hudson and Mrs. Bridges sense some odd behavior at Daisy s end. Moreover, Ruby is hoarding scraps of food and it doesn t go unnoticed -- not in these desperate times of extreme rationing. James is very disagreeable in his convalescence and resents that Hazel has accompanied Virginia to her son s trial in Dover. His behavior is extremely erratic and he is given to incoherent and very unsettling comments. In the end, Michael is found guilty of cowardice, but is spared expulsion, his extreme youth merits the consideration of the tribunal. Edward, however, is in serious trouble -- seems despite his indisposition, he s to be sent back to France and tried to dodge the authorities. Hudson tells Daisy that the ultimate punishment for Edward is the firing squad and Daisy discloses where he s hiding. Mrs. Bridges surmises that Ruby has been sending him the scraps of food she was storing. Despite a spirit that has galvanized all in the war effort, Daisy bitterly notes that a class-based double standard still exists. Michael Hamilton is found guilty with a slap on the wrist, but her husband, who is not at all well, can face dire consequences for being sent back to the fighting that has scarred him. Hudson protects Edward, but it s not a happy ending for Virginia Hamilton. Richard breaks the terrible news to her that Michael has been killed in the most recent action, perhaps to compensate for the recent verdict rendered against him. Virginia is devastated and Richard marvels at the dignity, character and extreme bravery of this exceptional woman -- a widow who has now sacrificed both her husband and teen-aged son for King and country.