1882. After the death of her father and accompanied by Peggy Scott, Marian Brook travels to New York to live with her aristocratic aunts, Agnes van Rhijn and Ada Brook. Meanwhile, determined to break into society, ruthless tycoon George Russell and his ambitious wife Bertha move their family into a lavish mansion across the street and prepare to throw their first soirée.

Tom Raikes’ visit to New York delights Marian but worries aunt Agnes. An increasingly desperate Peggy seeks legal advice from Mr. Raikes, George takes steps to further his latest business plans, Oscar van Rhijn homes in on young Gladys Russell, and a charity bazaar becomes the source of a dramatic stand after Bertha is slighted.

Bertha goes all out at a luncheon to impress Mr. McAllister, enlisting the help of Bannister — who rubs Church the wrong way. George fights to protect his public image, while Agnes’ status quo is disrupted. As Marian debates her feelings, Mrs. Chamberlain makes her an offer. Gladys bonds with a new friend. Armstrong intensifies her campaign against Peggy.

As the city buzzes over Edison’s electricity demonstration, Bertha plans a picnic that involves Mr. Raikes — but not Marian. Agnes entreats her niece to protect the family’s reputation. George prepares for a legal battle as he bristles over Larry’s career ambitions. Bannister plots his revenge. Turner gets an unwelcome surprise.

During her first visit to Newport, Bertha follows Mr. McCallister’s lead but is soon reminded of her place. Oscar’s pursuit of Gladys is threatened by a familiar presence. George gets his day in court. Worried about Armstrong’s interference, Peggy reveals her past. Marian makes a decision about her romantic future. Bridget follows Jack across the city.

As Marian prepares to embark on a new adventure, Ada and Aurora rush to stop her before it's too late. With Gladys' debut ball fast approaching, the clash between Bertha and Mrs. Astor has consequences for all of New York society. The discovery of a shocking letter changes everything for Peggy. Baudin lays out his double life.

On Easter Sunday, Agnes informs Ada, Marian, and Oscar of her nephew Dashiell Montgomery's imminent arrival in New York. In need of a change after an emotional visit to Philadelphia, Peggy asks Marian about returning to 61st Street. Meanwhile, Bertha sidesteps Mrs. Astor to support the Metropolitan Opera House, and Oscar begins courting Gladys once again.

While the staff question their future in the van Rhijn household, Jack receives welcome news about his patent. After scoring a victory for the local schools, Peggy considers her future at the NY Globe. Later, Marian confesses her true feelings to Dashiell – and Bertha and Mrs. Astor make their final moves in the opera war.