After the death of her father, Marian Brook travels to New York to live with her aristocratic aunts. 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.

Tom Raikes' visit to New York delights Marian but worries aunt Agnes. An increasingly desperate Peggy seeks legal advice from Mr. Raikes. Oscar van Rhijn homes in on young Gladys Russell. A charity bazaar becomes the source of a dramatic stand after Bertha is slighted.

An unfortunate development finds George's new rail station under threat. Despite Agnes' warnings, Marian continues to see Mr. Raikes. Peggy learns that a publisher is interested in her stories. At a talk given by Clara Barton, Ada reunites with a childhood friend.

In the aftermath of a tragedy, George makes a deal to help Bertha. Peggy gets an assignment from publisher T. Thomas Fortune, but a dinner with her parents ends on a sour note. Marian learns more about the mysterious Mrs. Chamberlain.

Bertha, Marian, Aurora and Peggy make an overnight trip to see Clara Barton speak. Gladys' desired beau is invited to dinner.

Mr. McAllister's visit to the Russells shakes the aunts' household. George aims to control the narrative. Marian considers her feelings.

As a historic moment captures the city, Agnes vows to protect her family's reputation, while Larry's career plans rub George the wrong way.

Peggy reveals the truth about her past, while George's day in court arrives, and Marian considers her romantic future.

Marian's grand plan is threatened. Bertha and Mrs. Astor lock horns over Glady's debut. Peggy is stunned by a major reveal.

On Easter Sunday, Agnes informs Ada, Marian, and Oscar of her nephew Dashiell Montgomery's imminent arrival in New York.

After giving Oscar his final verdict, George sends Clay to meet Mr. Henderson, the union leader at his Pittsburgh steel plant.

As the opera war heats up, an unlikely guest attends Bertha’s Met fundraiser, while Agnes backs Mrs. Astor’s effort to preserve the Academy’s dominance.

After receiving discouraging news about the Met, Bertha deals with rumors that are swirling about Larry. Fearing her sister’s disapproval, Ada asks Marian to cover for her as she continues to see Mr. Forte.

While Ada questions whether to move forward without her sister’s support, Agnes faces the prospect of living alone. In Newport, Bertha puts the finishing touches on the event of the season as Mrs. Winterton plots her revenge.

As George heads to Pittsburgh to deal with the potential strike, Bertha learns that the Duke will return for the Metropolitan Opera’s opening night.

Against the backdrop of the biggest event in New York City’s history, Bertha reconsiders her loyalty to the Met. Meanwhile, an engagement celebration leaves Marian with doubts, Peggy strives to make a difference in Brooklyn, George strikes a deal with Mr. Henderson.

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.