Episode 4 of Season 2 of "1923" kicks off with Donald Whitfield captivating a room brimming with businessmen with his oratory flair. He weaves a tantalizing narrative about the world teeming with opportunities, particularly through the lens of "new money," hinting at a plethora of untapped investment avenues. Whitfield's grand vision encompasses not just the promise of travel investments but also the ambitious project of constructing a road slicing through Paradise Valley, nestled in the heart of Yellowstone's majestic sprawl. The pièce de résistance? A winter resort where skiers and tobogganers alike can revel in the frosty delights. Little does he realize that this luxurious paradise sits squarely on the Dutton land, a revelation bound to stir up a tempest when it comes to light.
Elsewhere, Alex endures a harrowing encounter at the train station. A ruthless thief assails her, stripping her of her belongings and leaving her sprawled on the cold tiles of the women's restroom. Despite the ordeal, she musters every ounce of strength to dash onto the train, barely making it to her quarters. However, the robbery has reduced her to possessing nothing but the clothes on her back.
Within the Dutton abode, Cara gently urges Alice to step out as the doctor prepares to attend to Zane. Though chloroform momentarily silences his agonizing cries, its effects prove fleeting. To everyone's astonishment, including the doctor's, the surgery proves a resounding success, allowing Zane to walk again. But with this newfound mobility comes a burning desire for vengeance.
Elizabeth finds herself spiraling into a dark abyss of depression. The harsh winter exacerbates the collective suffering, but for her, it's a particularly trying time. In this moment of despair, Jacob steps in to offer solace. He clarifies that Jack isn't choosing between the ranch and the land; rather, the region is under siege, placing him in an excruciating dilemma. Yet, Jacob empathizes with Elizabeth's plight, acknowledging her decision to leave if she so chooses.
As Elizabeth administers the next injection, news of her pregnancy ripples through the family. Jack's joy knows no bounds, whereas Jacob views this as yet another mouth to nourish, filling him with concern.
Meanwhile, Spencer finds himself halted by a law enforcement officer along the roadside. The officer, feigning kindness, offers him a ride, but in this territory where vagrancy is deemed a crime, Spencer has little room for refusal. However, fate takes an unexpected turn as the officer tasks him with a dire mission: to transport illegal whiskey, presumably to set up a sting operation with his cronies. Compelled by circumstance, Spencer complies, yet he seizes a fleeting moment to bolt through the bustling cityscape. In a compassionate act, he also liberates a prostitute who has been publicly shamed, before dashing towards the train station.
Boarding the train, Spencer finds himself not alone in his carriage; a so-called "tax collector" looms in his space. Though Spencer holds his ground, the collector issues a chilling threat, vowing to haunt him in his dreams.
After attending a crucial business meeting, Banner Creighton returns home, his heart brimming with promises. He assures his wife that Donald's proposed investment could be the key to lifting them out of poverty's grip forever. This beacon of hope comes at a price, however – their wealth must be extracted from those who already possess it. With his wife's blessing, Creighton rejoins Donald, pledging his unwavering commitment. Their first order of business? To dispose of Christy's lifeless body and then confront the Duttons.
Back aboard the train, the tax collectors launch their assault on Spencer, but his reflexes prove too swift for them. Despite a brief slumber, he awakens just in time to overpower the trio and make his escape from the train.
