In the seventh episode of "The Buccaneers," the scene shifts to the illustrious abode of Lord and Lady Marable, where the clock has struck the eve of a new year. Our narrative spotlight falls once again on Theo and Nan, who arrive at this grand mansion amidst a murmurous crowd, the whispers like an unseen tide pulling at their very essence. Nan, now the subject of town gossip, her illegitimacy a matter publicly discussed, finds her spirits and self-assurance dimmed, despite the impending nuptials remaining unaffected. Theo endeavors to lift her spirits, urging her to disregard the scrutiny of the masses, but for Nan, the weight is too burdensome to bear.
A brief exchange between Guy and Theo unfolds, the former's words sharp and unyielding, revealing a rift in their lifelong bond over their differing perspectives on Nan's distress and embarrassment. A rivalry, subtle yet potent, begins to fester beneath the surface of their enduring friendship. Conchita and Lizzy, privy to Nan's despair and tears within the sanctuary of the washroom, strive to rejuvenate their friend's spirit, urging her to emerge from the darkness that has engulfed her.
Outside, in their carriage, Seadown and Jinny sit in trepidation, hesitant to venture inside, their elopement casting a shadow over their impending entrance. Seadown attempts to bolster Jinny's courage, yet his actions seem to isolate her further from the warmth of her loved ones. To the girls' astonishment, Tracy and Patti arrive at the bash unannounced, their presence a pleasant surprise, having been expected the following week. Jinny, unhesitating, approaches them to fill them in on the recent developments. While Patti, heartbroken, offers comfort to Nan, who rushes into her embrace, Tracy, characteristically nonchalant, is relieved that the Duke's affection for her remains steadfast. Patti's sharp glance, upon witnessing Guy and Nan together, hints at an awareness of undercurrents that lie beneath the surface.
Honoria and Richard engage in an intimate conversation with Minnie, during which she subtly hints at their harsh and unfeeling upbringing. It is also implied that Testvalley served as a more nurturing motherly figure to the children than Lady Marable ever did. Jinny, making her way to the washroom, loosens her corset and clutches her stomach in agony, raising the question: Could she possibly be with child?
Elsewhere, Lady Marable attempts to embarrass Patti, but Theo steps in and whisks her away to dance. They share apologies but both agree that their marriage will be filled with boundless love. Lady Marable then goes to retrieve Richard, and he confronts her about Testvalley. The truth unfolds: they had an affair, but as more details emerge, it seems more like a tale of exploitation than romance. Richard claims he was barely a boy at the time and is astounded when Lady Marable reveals she knew about it. Testvalley was dismissed from service precisely for this reason, and Lady Marable suggests they paid her hush money.
In a game of blindfold, Lizzy, her eyes covered, accidentally bumps into Seadown, who once again humiliates her. She pulls off the blindfold in disgust and, like Nan, scolds Jinny for allowing her husband to continue treating her with such disdain.
At long last, Patti summons the courage to divorce Tracy, announcing her decision as he urges her to leave the party. Honoria is furious with Mabel for making her feel special and worthy of love, a pain intensified by their impossible romance. Theo catches sight of Nan and Guy sharing laughter as they descend the stairs and insists on a word with Guy, warning him to steer clear of Nan.
Mentioning the telegram prompts a stunned reaction from Guy, who wonders if Nan has truly chosen the Duke. This sets off a fierce altercation between the two men. As the clock strikes twelve, the other guests welcome the new year, while the two men, in a comical twist, tumble through the doors to the astonishment of everyone present.
In private, Nan confronts Theo about the telegram. He reveals its contents and forces Guy to tell her the truth. Guy declares his love for Nan in an emotional speech, and the telegram reveals Nan's illegitimacy, devastating her. Theo knew about it but kept it from her, fearing he might lose her to Guy. Theo chases after Nan, rightfully pointing out that the secret wasn't his to keep or share. However, Nan, in her wisdom, places the blame solely on Theo. Internally, she is grappling with Guy's words, making it evident that her heart belongs to him, not Theo.
In the midst of the turmoil, Jinny takes a carriage ride alone. As scenes intercut with Seadown searching for her, she returns to the house. Guy and Theo share a quiet moment, with the former apologizing for sending the telegram but not for his genuine feelings. Guy vows to move past it and urges Theo to proceed with the wedding. Guy's farewell carries a foreboding sense of finality.
