The Boffins inherit a fortune when John Harmon, the only son and heir of their old employer, apparently drowns. A death brings Eugene Wrayburn into the life of Lizzie Hexam.

Lizzie finds herself being pursued by two suitors who become bitter rivals. Meanwhile, she finds a home.

Mr Boffin becomes a miser. Bella Wilfer marries John Rokesmith. Eugene Wrayburn tracks down Lizzie Hexam, then Bradley Headstone attacks Eugene and leaves him for dead.