Elizabeth balances new motherhood with teaching, Bill & Gowen battle to buy the saloon, Rosemary plays matchmaker for a potential romance, and Abigail brings technology to town.

After a foolish comment, Carson must admit that he cares more about Faith. The charming new saloon owner, Lucas Bouchard, causes a stir. Elizabeth teaches self-confidence, and Abigail takes a risk on the stock market with Gowen.

A new Mountie arrives earlier than expected. Bill and Nathan jump right to work when Lee's payroll is stolen. At the school, friends turn against each when a mock debate goes awry; Carson and Faith try to keep their romance a secret.

Elizabeth confronts Nathan about his parenting style. Bill is offered a judgeship, but is unsure if he wants to take it. Rosemary hosts a girls-only night. Faith and Carson's romance blooms. Jesse finds surface oil, but can't afford to drill.

Gowen strikes oil, which splits Hope Valley into the haves and have-nots. Abigail must settle a dispute among the landowners. Elizabeth must quell Cody's jealousy when Robert's family comes into money. Nathan urges Bill to re-examine judgeship offer.

Trying to stay on Elizabeth's good side, Lucas sets up a library for the town. Abigail is reunited with an old flame. Allie tricks Harper, Robert and Opal into believing the town has a haunted house. Bill conducts his first trial as a judge.

Lucas' past comes back to haunt him and others in Hope Valley; Lee and Gowen compete for workers; an old friend arrives with a new orphan.

At the Founders' Day Festival, Elizabeth makes a move that might affect her future; an orphan struggles to accept his new life; Bill finds startling information about Gowen.