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.

After a judge is intimidated into releasing two gunrunners, Bill recruits an old friend to help him track the criminals down. Abigail and Lucas clash over the saloon's late hours. Carson and Faith must decide whether to pursue their feelings.

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.