Jack questions Cat about the fire after finding whale oil cans in her shed, while Elizabeth is baffled when a poor student gives her a costly gift.

Elizabeth's visiting sister causes a stir when she brings a wounded man to town, while Jack invites Elizabeth to a romantic dinner at Abigail's café.

As Elizabeth yearns for the absent Jack, Abigail pumps Gowen for details about the mine disaster, and Julie grows close to fugitive outlaw Nathaniel.

Jack and Elizabeth's reunion is threatened by the appearance of a woman from Jack's past. Abigail welcomes forensics investigator Bill Avery to town.

Helped by Jack, Bill investigates the mine explosion, while Elizabeth must decide whether to accept a job offer back East or remain in Coal Valley.