Wed, Dec 27, 1972
Orphan Margaret Thursday is no longer able to stay with the Cameron family - their fortune has dwindled over the years and the sisters also now feel they are too old to care for her. With the money from a mysterious benefactor for her upkeep also no longer being available, she is sent to an austere orphanage - where she soon falls foul of the cruel matron.
Wed, Jan 3, 1973
Lavinia leaves the orphanage to take up work as a scullery maid at Sedgecombe manor, leaving behind her two younger brothers. With her punishing new work schedule, she worries if she will be able to have any contact with them. Meanwhile Margaret - still suffering at the hands of the orphanage's cruel matron - starts to formulate plans to make an escape.
Wed, Jan 17, 1973
After being punished and humiliated by matron over the missing items, Margaret decides that she has no future at the orphanage and must escape that night - taking the Beresford boys wtih her. But what will await them in the outside world - and will it be better than life at the orphanage?
Wed, Jan 24, 1973
Margaret and the Beresford boys continue to enjoy their freedom on the canal boat - whilst gossip in the village about the children's disappearance leads to the villagers letting their feelings about the orphanage be known. Lady Corkberry visits the matron personally - as the situation at the orphanage finally comes to a head.
Wed, Jan 31, 1973
The Matron has been relieved of her duties at the orphanage and sent packing - with the kind-hearted schoolteacher Mrs Shelston installed in her place. Meanwhile, a new and surprising opportunity arises for Margaret and the Beresford boys - whilst Lavinia also has a surprising revelation at the manor.